Best things in life still free

Richie Wellsbury gives it a whirl, watched by sons Caleb and Morgan, at last year's Free Farm Day. Photo / George Novak

Bay of Plenty Federated Farmers is the only remaining regional branch in the country to run a free, town meets country, Farm Day and organisers say it has survived due to public response.

Co-organiser Steve Bailey said despite bad weather last year more than 300 people braved the elements to get a glimpse of farming practices.

Often due to rules and regulations it was difficult to visit farms combined with the fact that "we all seem to be working harder and faster," he said.

The day also provided a platform for those involved with the rural sector to get together and share knowledge with those outside the industry he said.

"It's a chance for them to get together and do something positive, which is great. I think there is a whole lot of people that don't actually understand what it is that farmers do."

"People may read sensational stories to do with waterways and rivers but there is a whole lot of positive stories."

Industries supported by agriculture also contributed directly to urban revenue through spend, he said.

Federated Farmers Bay of Plenty provincial president Rick Powdrell saidthe Farm Day meant people could experience and learn about what actually goes on, on farm.

"They can see some of the things we do with sheep and likewise with cows as some will be getting milked. There are also plenty of static displays and it's just a great opportunity for urban people to see what happens rather than making their assumptions about what farming is from what they read and hear."

Mr Bailey said activities on the day would include farm talks and demonstrations, Dairy NZ's Rosie the Cow, lolly haystack jumble, gumboot throwing, horse, pony and harness rides and flavoured milk from Fonterra.