Shaun Hazelton

Shaun says getting in at ground level when regulators create policy is one of the most rewarding aspects of his job, alongside helping them understand how their policies impact farmers.

“For me, it’s about the entire process,” explains Shaun. “We’re often involved from day one and for some of the initial proposals, discussions can be pretty gnarly. Being able to influence fast and early to adjust policies for ‘real world’ situations, gives them a softer starting point when they do go out for public consultation.”

Waikato/Matamata born and bred, Shaun’s role focuses on upper North Island regional policy. “The core stakeholders I interact with are regional councils and Government. This includes all of the organisations working for farmers, like dairy companies, levy groups and fertiliser companies.

“Our Policy team makes sure that evidence-based and practical solutions are put forward to policymakers. Any regulation needs to have a light touch on our farmers, while minimising its associated paperwork, cost and complexity. Even if some compromise is involved, I believe our work still results in better outcomes for farmers.”

Shaun says that collaboration with rural professionals, Federated Farmers, and catchment groups provides strength in numbers and a unified voice at the decision-making table. Bringing farmers into the conversation is also a big part of achieving good outcomes. “Farmers are custodians and central to achieving water quality outcomes for their catchments. They need to be directly involved in the rules that impact them.”

“Many policy decision-makers aren’t in touch with rural New Zealand and the reality of farming. Because of my farming background, I can explain to them how a regulation will impact a farmer’s day-to-day business. For example, how farmers balance feed budgets, or manage effluent on farms.”

Bringing farmers along on the journey is also an important part of the Policy team’s work.

“This enables councils and Central Government to hear from those most impacted by regulation. We often encourage farmers to come to our discussions, or attend hosted farm visits alongside policymakers, to ensure regulators get in touch with what policy means on the land.”

• Find out more about DairyNZ's other policy team members.
• Learn more about DairyNZ's policy, advocacy and regulation work on behalf of farmers.