Australian Banks’ Role in Supporting New Zealand Farmers: An Insight
Australian banks, holding about 85% of New Zealand’s bank lending, play a pivotal role in the financial stability of New Zealand’s agricultural sector. This significant share puts New Zealand’s farming and horticultural communities largely under the influence of decisions made by banking executives in Australia. According to financial expert Alexander, in the event of an […]
EU Deforestation Laws Challenge NZ Beef Trade
The European Union’s new rules are causing headaches for New Zealand beef exporters. These rules, set last June, demand proof that beef doesn’t harm forests after 2020’s end. Sellers face a tight deadline by this year’s end to comply. These EU laws mean beef sellers must show their beef follows their country’s laws or face […]
Challenges Ahead: Navigating the Current Rural Sector Downturn
Pita Alexander, a seasoned accountant and agribusiness advisor with nearly six decades of experience, has observed a unique challenge facing the rural sector today. Unlike the eleven financial downturns since 1948, the current situation is unprecedented due to simultaneous increases in costs and decreases in prices, particularly affecting the sheep farming industry with notably low […]
The New Wave of Farming: Young NZ Farmers at the Forefront
In the heart of New Zealand’s countryside, a quiet revolution is unfolding. Young farmers, armed with a blend of traditional knowledge and modern technology, are steering the agricultural sector towards a new horizon. This change comes at a time when the industry faces economic hurdles and unpredictable climatic patterns. Contrary to the old belief that […]
Navigating Agricultural Challenges: El Niño’s Impact and Market Dynamics
Weather Patterns and Farming Conditions The El Niño weather phenomenon is bringing mixed conditions for New Zealand farmers. In the North Island, ample grass and sufficient rainfall are supporting pasture growth, though the East Coast is experiencing drier conditions. In the South Island, areas like Marlborough, Canterbury, Central Otago, and parts of Southland are drying […]
Beef + Lamb New Zealand Offers Guidance for Farm Management in Extreme Dry Conditions
Beef + Lamb New Zealand has released a comprehensive fact sheet titled ‘Guidance on extreme dry management’, outlining key strategies for farmers to cope with severe dry weather. The document emphasises four critical areas: business management, feed supply, stock management, and land management, with a strong focus on the importance of early decision-making. Business Management […]
OSPRI CEO Announces Departure, Leaving Legacy of Success
OSPRI’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) has announced his decision to step down, marking the end of a significant era for the organisation. This move follows his successful completion of OSPRI’s 5-year strategic plan, paving the way for a new leader to take the helm. Under his leadership, OSPRI has seen remarkable achievements. The organisation, known […]
Anna Nelson Breaks New Ground as Chair of Silver Fern Farms Co-operative
Anna Nelson has made history by becoming the first woman to chair a major New Zealand meat company, having been elected to lead Silver Fern Farms Co-operative. She succeeds Rob Hewett, who announced his retirement after a decade in the role and will step down at the cooperative’s annual meeting in May. Nelson, a farmer […]
US Sheep Industry’s Shift on Lamb Import Tariffs and Trump’s Potential Influence
The American Sheep Industry Association (ASI), the principal sheep lobby in the United States, has recently stepped back from its earlier push for tariffs on lamb imports from New Zealand and Australia. This development, however, is shadowed by the possibility of a change in policy if Donald Trump, known for his protectionist stance, returns to […]
Effective Tactics for Combating Pneumonia in Lambs During High-Risk Times
Pneumonia in lambs, particularly Chronic Non-Progressive Pneumonia, is a prevalent issue in farming. This condition, often caused by various pathogens like bacteria and viruses, leads to lung lesions. Its symptoms, such as reduced growth rate and respiratory distress post-exercise, though subtle, have significant implications for lamb health and farm efficiency. A comprehensive study spanning 2000 […]
