We are very disappointed with the decision from the local body commission. Having lost the rural representation that has been the founding part of forming the Gisborne District Council. When the smaller councils amalgamated it was with the understanding that the dedicated rural voice would not be lost. Well, it has only taken 30 odd […]
Councils’ arrogance stands out like dog’s balls
No time to read? listen here Federated Farmers along with many others in rural Rotorua have pushed hard yet again for rural representation to be at the table, being part of decision making and bringing our unique perspective to the outcomes. Sadly following the 2022 Representation Review arrangements, it is clear our voice is not wanted […]
New project manager for Ovis Management programme
A new project manager has been appointed to the Ovis Management programme, which works to promote control of C. ovis – or sheep measles – across New Zealand.Michelle Simpson has taken over from Dan Lynch, who has retired after heading the programme for 28 years.Michelle, who lives in Halcombe in the Manawatu, has a background […]
Ginny Dodunski appointed manager of Wormwise programme
Highly-experienced rural vet Ginny Dodunski has been appointed manager for the Wormwise programme and will take up her new role at the beginning of May. Wormwise is an industry-wide partnership overseen by Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ), the New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA), AGCARM, and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). It works to […]
BOP policy advisor jumps into new role
by Jesse Brennan, Federated Farmers Policy Advisor My first week at Feds saw me jumping into the world of Dama wallaby control in the central north island. This species is well established in the Bay of Plenty Region, and have continued to push their way into the Waikato region at an estimated rate of 0.8 […]
Andrew wraps the week…
Andrew Hoggard with an update on He Waka Eke Noa. “We’ve been pushing for changes that we want to see, that we think make the farm level a better option than what it currently is. But it’s still too early to tell whether we’re going to get this thing in a good enough place that […]
Farmers pitch in after picker plea
By Rebecca Flannery Two years ago, it was a “hail from hell” storm that decimated over 75 percent of the fruit crop. Last year a -4.5C frost destroyed the chance for a decent picking season. This year the threat of the trifecta was looming with a lack of pickers. South Canterbury’s apple harvest was looking […]
Horticultural programme to provide new opportunities for Ngāti Hauā
The Government is partnering with Ngāti Hauā Iwi Trust to develop a horticultural programme that will empower Ngāti Hauā whānau to upskill, diversify their businesses and sustainably generate wealth from their land, Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor announced today. The Waikato-based iwi has received $1.12 million from the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Sustainable Food and Fibre […]
New Zealand’s First Plant-Based Milk Bottle Hits South Island Shelves
Anchor has launched its plant-based bottle, which is recyclable, in the South Island. The availability of the bottle in the South Island demonstrates Fonterra’s commitment to have all packaging reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025. Anchor Blue 2L, in the new plant-based bottle, landed on shelves across the South Island at the beginning of this […]
Farmers helping feed Auckland families this Christmas
Farmers Feed Families aims to feed families adversely affected by continued financial pressure they are faced with as a result of COVID 19 forcing Auckland into a prolonged lock down. This has meant many families have been without work – income and therefore food.