Farm Liability
Protecting rural livelihoods from the legal and financial risks of life on the land
Life in Central Otago is shaped by the land - rugged hills, sweeping plains, and the hard work of those who farm, grow, and live rurally. With that way of life comes a unique set of responsibilities, especially when it comes to keeping people, property, and your operation safe. At C&R Brokers, we understand the liability risks that come with working the land, which is why we help farmers and rural landowners secure tailored protection that reflects the realities of their environment. Farm liability insurance is designed for those who live and work rurally, offering cover for accidental damage, injury, or legal claims that may arise on your property. Whether you run a high‑country station, a vineyard, or a lifestyle block, the right liability cover helps safeguard your livelihood when the unexpected happens.
Safeguard your operation from costly claims and legal risks with tailored farm liability insurance.
What it is and why you might need it
Farm liability insurance protects more than just your property - it safeguards you, your employees, trustees, shareholders, and contractors from legal liability when accidents or damage occur that aren’t covered by ACC. This type of cover ensures you’re protected when incidents on your farm lead to injury, property damage, or legal claims.
Farm liability cover typically includes three key areas:
General liability - protection for accidental damage to other people’s property or injury to third parties.
Statutory liability - cover for unintentional breaches of certain laws, including legal defence costs.
Employers’ liability - protection against claims from employees for injuries or illness not covered by ACC.
Why this cover matters:
Liability claims can be financially draining, with legal costs and settlements adding up quickly.
Coverage levels vary between insurers, so it’s important to work with a broker to find the right fit.
Many policies require full disclosure of how your farm operates, including safety measures and environmental compliance.
According to the New Zealand Farm Insurance Legal Requirements 2025, a serious workplace accident — especially one involving death or permanent disability — can result in civil claims exceeding $1 million, plus WorkSafe prosecution costs of $100,000+.
Without employers’ liability cover, these costs may come directly from your farm’s assets.
Example scenario:
A contractor working on a farm accidentally damages a neighbour’s fence. The neighbour makes a claim, and the farmer is held legally liable. Farm liability insurance covers the repair costs and legal fees, protecting the farmer from a sudden financial hit.
By investing in farm liability insurance, you gain peace of mind that unexpected claims won’t derail your business or limit your ability to invest in what matters most. Our team works with you to ensure everyone involved in your property is protected, all the time.
Here’s how we help
We listen first. We take the time to understand your business model, your goals, and your pain points.
We tailor your cover. From retail to trades to tourism, we build policies that reflect your actual risks — not generic templates.
We advocate for you. If you need to make a claim, we’re right there with you — helping you navigate the process and get fair outcomes.
We stay connected. As your business evolves, we’re here to review and adjust your cover so it keeps pace with your growth.