“That includes making space for children to safely learn and contribute to farm life in ways that are safe and age-appropriate,” she said.

“One proposed change is to amend the General Risk Regulations to make it clear that young people can safely take part in light chores on family farms.

“We’ll be consulting with farmers and the agriculture sector on the thresholds for light chores children can do on farms, like collecting eggs, feeding small animals and watering plants, while ensuring safety is not compromised.”

She expected higher-risk activities like being near heavy machinery to remain “off-limits”.

“As children grow older, they’ll be able to undertake more complex tasks with supervision and training, such as driving a tractor.”

Van Velden expected Cabinet would make a decision in November with any changes implemented by mid-2026.

Speaking to the Herald, van Velden said she had first heard concerns from the rural sector, particularly women, that the current law was vague and complex.

“If you have farming families stopping their kids being on farm and being raised in a rural environment because of a fear of WorkSafe, then we don’t have the rules correct.”

WorkSafe would also be consulting on two new Approved Codes of Practice related to on-farm activities and the use of vehicles/machinery.

“Too many people are killed or seriously injured in quad-bike related incidents,” van Velden said.

“However, I understand there are varying practices and views on what protections will best enhance safety and reduce harm.”

Adam Pearse is the Deputy Political Editor and part of the NZ Herald’s Press Gallery team based at Parliament in Wellington. He has worked for NZME since 2018, reporting for the Northern Advocate in Whangārei and the Herald in Auckland.