21 February 2013

Reduction in Rural Mail Delivery Services a Step Too Far

New Zealand First opposes plans by New Zealand Post to further reduce rural mail delivery services.

Primary Industries spokesperson Richard Prosser said the proposed move from the current five and six day a week delivery and collection, to between one and three days of service, was another kick in the teeth for an already embattled rural sector.

“RD contractors are a vital part of life in our rural and farming communities, and this proposal, if it is carried through, will hit them hard.

“Rural posties do more than just deliver the mail – they carry parcels and courier items, urgent medical supplies, even bread and milk in some areas, and they’re also a key element of the country version of neighbourhood watch.”

Mr Prosser says reducing the service to three days a week will make many, if not most, of these independent small businesses unviable.

“The Heartland is still where most of New Zealand’s wealth is generated, and the Rural Delivery service is an essential lifeline for it.

“This is about more than just a fair go for the farming community, it’s about NZ Post recognising the value of agriculture’s contribution to the entire economy, and treating it accordingly.

“New Zealand First will fight to protect the interests of provincial New Zealand,” says Mr Prosser.

ENDS

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