Anyone using agrichemicals as part of their job – or overseeing or monitoring such use – is being invited to attend update sessions being held across New Zealand in May.

The ‘Agrichemical Afternoons’ bring together speakers from Rural Contractors NZ, Growsafe, Responsible Care NZ and Nufarm.

Rural Contractors NZ CEO Roger Parton says the three 45-minute workshops are designed to assist Registered Chemical Applicators, Certified Handlers and Qualified Contractors.

“We have been running these afternoon sessions for many years as an easy way for those working with agrichemicals to stay abreast of legislative and registration requirements, best practice models for storing and handling chemicals as well as spraying risks.’’

Those who attend are eligible for three Continuing Professional Development points – 10 points are required over five years to renew Registered Chemical Applicator accreditation.

Other speakers include Jane Lamb, who is General Manager of NZ Agrichemical Education Trust (Growsafe) and Ken Clarke, Compliance Manager of Responsible Care NZ which represents most major New Zealand manufacturers and importers of hazardous substances. A Nufarm representative also talks on the challenges facing contractors.

The Agrichemical Afternoons for 2021 are being held in seven regional centres from early May.

  • Monday May 3, Distinction Hotel, Whangarei
  • Tuesday May 4, Ibis Hotel, Hamilton
  • Monday May 10, Quality Elms Hotel, Christchurch
  • Thursday May 13, Heartland Croydon Hotel, Gore
  • Thursday May 20, Quality Hotel, Nelson
  • Monday May 24, Distinction Coachman Hotel, Palmerston North
  • Tuesday May 25, East Pier Hotel,

The Agrichemical Afternoons run 2-5pm and the cost is only $25 per person – register at https://ruralcontractors.org.nz/2021-roadshow/

Following the agrichemical sessions in Hamilton, Christchurch, Gore and Palmerston North, a 1.5 hour roadshow will be held for Rural Contractors NZ members to update them on issues including the recruitment of short-term workers from offshore, changes to immigration policies and transport and employment legislation