Meat & Livestock News

Canterbury Dairy Farm Reports Mycoplasma Bovis Infection

Recent Outbreak in Canterbury A dairy farm in Canterbury has been reported as the latest to be infected with Mycoplasma bovis, marking it as the second property in the region to be affected by this disease. The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has indicated that such further infections towards the end of an outbreak are […]

New Direction in Freshwater Policy Welcomed by Farming Community

Government Revises Freshwater Policy The New Zealand farming community has expressed relief and support following the government’s decision to replace the controversial National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management (NPS-FM).  Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard announced that work on developing a new policy will begin immediately, with an expected completion timeline of 18 to 24 months. […]

Farmers’ Satisfaction with Banks Hits Record Low, Survey Reveals

Declining Satisfaction Among Farmers The latest Federated Farmers Banking Survey has revealed a significant decline in farmers’ satisfaction with their banks, reaching an all-time low. Conducted in mid-November, the survey highlights growing concerns among farmers about undue pressure from banks and high-interest rates. Survey Findings While 55.6% of farmers remain satisfied with their bank relationships, […]

New Zealand Farmers Anticipate Crucial RMA Reform

Urgent Need for Resource Management Act Overhaul New Zealand’s farming community is poised for a significant legislative shift with the new Government’s plan to overhaul the Resource Management Act (RMA). Mark Hooper, a national board member and resource management spokesperson for Federated Farmers, has welcomed the Government’s intention to repeal the existing RMA reforms, which […]

New Zealand’s Pork Sector Urges Government Action on Import Standards

The New Zealand pork industry is appealing to the new government for stricter regulations on pork imports, citing concerns over animal welfare and the need for a level playing field for local farmers. NZ Pork, the sector’s representative body, has conducted an analysis revealing a substantial influx of imported pork, with over 44,000 tonnes arriving […]

Navigating the Economic Landscape: New Zealand’s Approach to Inflation and Interest Rates

In the complex world of financial markets, differing perspectives between central banks and market players are becoming increasingly evident. The current trend suggests a shift in expectations regarding interest rates, with market predictions leaning towards a decrease over the next two years. This anticipated change is seen as a potential relief for borrowers, contrasting with […]

The Future of Dairy Farming: Emphasising Cow Efficiency

Embracing Efficiency in Dairy Farming Malcolm Ellis, departing General Manager for NZ Markets at LIC, highlights the dairy industry’s potential to reduce methane emissions by focusing on cow efficiency. As he transitions to a new role at Fonterra, Ellis reflects on the industry’s shift from a quantity-focused approach to valuing the efficiency of each cow. […]

New Zealand’s Path to Achieving Climate Goals

Government’s Role in Climate Action The New Zealand Government is facing crucial decisions in its approach to meeting the country’s climate goals. Dr Rod Carr, a key figure in the climate change sector, emphasises the importance of policies that reduce climate pollution, providing clear direction for businesses, communities, and households. He highlights the need for […]

Managing Parasite Resistance in New Zealand’s Livestock

Challenges with Parasite Resistance New Zealand’s livestock industry is facing challenges with parasite resistance, particularly concerning the supply of effective drenches. Wormwise Programme Manager Ginny Dodunski highlights the ongoing issue of triple-drench resistant parasites affecting lambs. Last autumn, there were instances of lambs suffering from these resistant parasites, with limited treatment options available. This issue […]