Farm Business Structures

Choosing the right farm ownership structure is crucial to the long-term success and sustainability of your farming business. At Rural Business Accountants, we help dairy, sheep and beef, and cropping farmers across Mid-Canterbury and rural New Zealand make informed decisions that support growth, manage risk, and secure the future of their farms.

Our team of rural accounting experts understand the complexities of farm ownership and business models. Whether you're planning succession, expanding your operation, or starting out, we provide tailored advice to help you choose a structure that fits your goals.

Succession Planning

Succession planning is more than just passing the farm to the next generation—it’s about protecting your legacy, minimising tax liabilities, and maintaining family harmony. We work closely with farming families to develop clear, practical succession strategies that reflect your values and business goals. From trust structures to family agreements, we make the process manageable and future focused.

Equity Partnerships

Equity partnerships allow farmers to share ownership and responsibilities while building equity. Whether you’re looking to bring in a younger farmer, or invest in a larger operation, our accounting team will guide you through structuring the partnership, managing contributions, profit-sharing, and compliance. Equity partnerships can be a win-win for succession, scale, and investment.

Leasing

Leasing is a smart option for both landowners seeking passive income and farmers looking to expand without a major capital outlay. We advise on farm leasing agreements, tax implications, and financial planning to ensure both parties benefit from a clear, workable arrangement.

Share Farming

a share farming arrangement, two parties combine resources—such as land, labour, or equipment—while maintaining individual ownership. This model is popular among cropping and dairy operations. Our team helps draft agreements, allocate costs and income fairly, and ensure that obligations and rewards are clearly understood.

Contract Milking

Contract milking offers a lower-risk pathway into dairy farming. We help both farm owners and contract milkers set up profitable arrangements that work for everyone. From budgeting and forecasting to performance tracking and GST compliance, we’ve got your back every step of the way.

Alternative Farm Ownership Structures

No two farms are the same. We also provide guidance on trusts, companies, limited partnerships, and hybrid structures to suit your specific financial, operational, and family needs. With decades of experience in rural accounting, we ensure your structure works for today—and tomorrow.