Farmers flock online

New research suggests internet use by farmers is on the rise, and has outstripped average use throughout New Zealand.

The research, recently conducted on behalf of RD1.COM, shows that 60 per cent of farmers surveyed have internet access at home, compared to a national average of 33 per cent.

The research used a nationwide telephone survey of 500 farmers across dairy, beef and sheep farms.

The study confirms earlier RD1 research showing that rural women are leading the way with usage at 62 per cent, compared to 59 per cent for men.

These usage levels show a growth of 30 per cent compared to a similar sized national survey undertaken one year ago.

Dairy farmers are using the internet more than other farmers (at almost 64 per cent versus 53 per cent), and the highest usage was among farmers aged 45- 54 years at 75 per cent.

Of farmers using the internet, 52 per cent use it as a business tool primarily for farming information, to monitor milk production or other data, conduct research, online banking and buy supplies.

Time spent online is also devoted to keeping in touch with email, general education and use by children.