Rural Riders offers weekly bike rides, barbecues and catch-ups for busy farmers.
Rural Riders offers weekly bike rides, barbecues and catch-ups for busy farmers.
Farming can be a solitary job, so Ballance Agri-Nutrients launched the “Rural Riders” initiative in 2021 to help farmers stay connected, active, and supported.
What started as one group in Rotorua/Taupō has turned into a nationwide movement helping farmers hit pause on the everyday grind, clear their heads, and maybeeven bring out the Lycra.
With Rural Riders, farmers around the country are trading paddocks for pedals, with a weekly bike ride that’s more about being around mates than racking up mileage or speed.
Organisers say it’s all about getting outside, catching up, and reminding yourself there’s life beyond the fenceline, the shearing or dairy shed.
Thomas Keeling, core nutrient specialist for Ballance Agri-Nutrients, said he also found the experience rewarding.
“As a rural professional, there’s something special about catching up with farmers outside of work, no agenda, just genuine conversations and shared passion for rural life.”
Run along similar lines to “Surfing for Farmers,” Rural Riders recommenced this month and will run through to Easter 2026.
It gives farmers a chance to get active, step away from day-to-day mahi, and connect with others in a relaxed setting.
Rural Riders is ideal for farmers living further inland and not close to a beach, and it doesn’t matter whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first timer; everyone is welcome.
A Rural Riders group enjoying a well-earned barbecue.
Keeling said that two weeks ago, the Rural Riders’ Southland regional co-ordinator shared that 15 riders turned up despite the tough conditions left by high winds.
Keeling said one farmer said that he only found out his dairy farm’s power had been restored a week after the storms, while out riding with the group.
Rural Riders offers inland farmers an alternative to “Surfing for Farmers”.
This showed the value of these meet-ups for connection and support, he said.
This year, there are rides in 16 locations across the country, most of which meet up weekly and end with a barbecue and drinks.
For upcoming events or to get involved, visit Rural Riders on Instagram or Facebook, or contact your local coordinator.
Rural Riders is supported nationally by Ballance, Rabobank, Beef + Lamb New Zealand, Halter, and Rural Support.
