Your Library
Welcome to the Library - your source of practical insights, updates, and advice from our team of local expert.
From tax tips and business planning to agribusiness insights and succession strategies, our articles are written to help you make confident, informed decisions.
Explore real-world guidance and fresh thinking to keep you ahead of the curve - with clarity, confidence, and a local perspective.
If you are looking for some handy guides and resources check out our Toolkit.
If you are looking for something specific, click on one of the topics below to view the relevant articles.
Should you buy or lease your business assets?
There are certain items of equipment, machinery and hardware that are essential to the operation of your business. But, is it best to buy or to lease?
Preparing Your Farm Business for El Niño
With El Niño increasing the risk of drier conditions in parts of New Zealand, early preparation can give farmers more options. We look at practical steps you can take to prepare your farm business for the season ahead.
Livestock valuation: Which Value is best for my business?
In this blog we look at the different livestock valuation methods available and what to consider when choosing the right approach for your farm.
Waikato Rural Support: Connection and Care for Rural Communities
At BFA, many of our clients are at the heart of the rural sector - farmers, growers, and business owners who play a vital role in keeping our region thriving. That’s why organisations like Waikato Rural Support resonate so strongly with us.
Farm House Accommodation: What Farmers, Sharemilkers & Contract Milkers Need to Know
Housing on farms has always been part of how the rural sector works, especially in sharemilking and contract milking arrangements. But it can get surprisingly complicated. Here’s a clear, practical guide to help you understand who’s responsible for what.
KiwiSaver Changes Give Rural Workers a Shot at Home or Farm Ownership
For years, rural employees have been paying into KiwiSaver but blocked from using it for a first home because they had to live in employer provided housing. This is now changing.
Learning to Make Good Business Decisions
Making good business decisions is easier to do when you have excellent information at your fingertips.
Succession planning event recap
Over 50 farmers and rural professionals gathered at the Millennium Hotel in Taupō on Wednesday 21 May for a pivotal seminar hosted by BFA and Craigs Investment Partners.
Farm Succession Event Offers Vital Insights for Farmers
We, along with Craigs Investment Partners, will be hosting an event later this month to take a deeper look at the practical and emotional side of Succession Planning.
Declaration of Drought - March 2025
MPI has officially extended the drought declaration in the Waikato, and several other North Island regions.
The barriers to mental health services for young rural men
Living in rural and remote areas often means people can feel socially isolated. This can contribute to stress, anxiety and depression which can have a detrimental effect on people's mental health.
Dairy Farmers: Financial tools to manage on-farm risk
Going into a business where you have no control over what you earn has taught me that farmers should consider utilising hedging tools to minimise financial risk.
Always Have a Plan
At the current time, New Zealanders are dealing with the devastation of Cyclone Gabrielle, cost of living increases, inflation, and a shortage of staff for many businesses.
Making good business decisions - back yourself
There is always someone out there who will tell you it’s not the right time to buy a farm, start a business, borrow more money…but how do you know what the ‘right’ thing to do is?
Emissions Pricing Report Shows Progress
A section 215 report, released by the Government shortly before Christmas, outlines several changes to the proposed emissions pricing system that give greater certainty for farmers, and better recognises on-farm sequestration.
Using Dung Beetles to tackle environmental issues
With farmers being challenged to find more sustainable and environmentally friendly methods of farming, we are seeing a few purchases of Dung Beetles by our clients.
Figured Lending Launches
Figured Lending launches with first new offer for Contract milkers and Sharemilkers. Turn your farming plans into reality with quick access to pre-qualified finance.
Succession Planning
Succession planning is important for both your business’ and family’s future but isn’t often thought about until retirement.
How to value Unspecified Livestock
All livestock must be valued at your balance date, including non-specified livestock, and a valuation report should be provided.
5 Things to Consider with Farm Accounting
Farm accounting is as unique as the business and more complex when you consider the assets, liabilities, costs and revenue.