Grazing License Template for New Zealand

A grazing license is a legal document that grants you permission to graze livestock on someone else's land without creating a formal lease or transferring any ownership interest. Unlike a lease, this arrangement provides temporary access rights while maintaining the landowner's full control over their property. You'll find grazing licenses particularly useful for short-term arrangements, seasonal grazing needs, or when testing potential long-term partnerships.

When do you need this document?

You'll require a grazing license when seeking temporary access to additional pasture land during dry seasons or when your own land cannot support your current stock numbers. Dairy farmers often use these agreements during winter months when moving dry cows to alternative grazing areas. Sheep and beef farmers frequently enter grazing licenses during drought conditions or when spelling their own pastures for regeneration. You might also need this document when agisting young stock or breeding animals on specialist properties with superior feed quality or facilities.

Key legal considerations

Your grazing license must clearly specify permitted stock types, maximum animal numbers, and grazing periods to prevent overuse and land damage. Payment terms should include license fees, timing of payments, and any additional costs for water, supplements, or veterinary treatments. The agreement should address animal welfare responsibilities, ensuring compliance with the Animal Welfare Act 1999, including provisions for animal health monitoring and emergency veterinary care. Risk allocation clauses must cover livestock injury, death, or escape, plus potential property damage caused by grazing activities. Environmental protection measures should align with Resource Management Act requirements, particularly regarding waterway access, erosion prevention, and biosecurity protocols under the Biosecurity Act 1993.

Legal requirements in New Zealand

Under the Property Law Act 2007, your grazing license must be properly documented to avoid disputes and clarify the legal relationship between parties. The Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 requires both parties to maintain safe working conditions, including proper farm infrastructure, safe animal handling facilities, and clear emergency procedures. Environmental compliance under the Resource Management Act 1991 is mandatory, particularly regarding nutrient management, soil conservation, and protection of waterways from stock damage. The Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines Act 1997 governs any chemical treatments or medications used on the property, requiring proper storage, application, and withdrawal period compliance. Biosecurity obligations must address pest plant and animal management, with clear responsibilities for maintaining existing biosecurity standards and preventing new incursions during the grazing period.