Photo: RNZ/Susan Murray
With all the near-by pubs now closed, a woolshed is now the informal gathering spot for Manawatu farmers on a Friday night. 'Happy Hour On Now For Mental Health' says a sign on the fencepost outside.
Inside the shed, talk isn't only about farming but covers all sorts of things.
"We're going to get Jacinda to sponsor us for getting [mentally stronger], making everyone [talk]... Doesn't matter how much rubbish you talk, you go away and the next morning you're a new person," says Bruce Goodwin.
The others in the circle agree, and say it gives them something to look forward to each week.
Down one end of the table a phone rings. It's for Bruce, whose property the woolshed is on.
"Just had Management ring up and she's bringing up sausages. We normally supply sausages and chippies and that.".
Questioned about the lack of women present, I'm assured they come eventually, and the children, too. They just haven't arrived yet.
Photo: RNZ/Susan Murray