Livestock Insurance Southland

Southland has significant sheep and beef farming throughout the region, from large intensive sheep and beef operations on the flat country to hill-country stations in the inland areas. The region is New Zealand's second-largest sheep region after Canterbury.

Dairy farming has expanded in Southland, particularly around Invercargill and on the flat coastal plains. The region's cool climate is suited to dairy cow production, and intensive dairy farming has grown significantly over recent decades.

Deer farming is also present in parts of Southland, with suitable climate and land for velvet stag production.

Rainfall and flood risk is the primary natural disaster concern for Southland livestock farmers. The region receives significant rainfall, and several river systems — including the Mataura and Oreti Rivers — are prone to flooding during heavy rainfall events. Livestock losses during flood events can be severe.

Wind exposure is also significant in parts of Southland, particularly on exposed southern coast properties. Ensure your livestock policy covers wind-related deaths.

Cold and snow exposure in winter can trigger livestock losses, particularly for post-shearing sheep flocks. Post-shearing exposure cover is important for Southland sheep operations.

Southland's intensive sheep and dairy operations require livestock insurance adequately scaled to the operation size. A large Southland dairy operation with 500+ cows might carry $2–3 million in herd value — appropriate cover levels and regular valuation updates are essential.

FMG and Aon both provide competitive livestock insurance for intensive Southland operations. Discussing your specific farm size and risk profile with a rural adviser ensures cover limits are appropriate.

All major NZ livestock insurers serve Southland. FMG has a strong regional presence with rural advisers in Southland. Aon provides online livestock quotes for Southland farmers. Specialist rural brokers including Gerrards and LCFG provide personalised comparison services.

Our licensed rural advisers offer free comparison quotes for Southland livestock farms, ensuring you access competitive options across all major providers.