With the complex and controversial mosaic of new regulations and changes being ushered in under the general heading of ‘3 waters’, it’s understandable that some farmers might want to throw their hands up in despair, or switch off out of sheer frustration and confusion. That would be a mistake. If there was one clear message […]
SpotLight
EU approves methane-reducing feed additive Bovaer®
Royal DSM, a global purpose-led science-based company, announces that European Union (EU) member states approved the marketing of the methane-reducing feed additive for dairy cows, Bovaer®, in the EU. After inclusion in the EU registry, expected in the coming weeks, it is the first time a feed additive authorised in the EU for environmental benefits […]
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 […]
Weighing the pros and cons of He Waka Eke Noa options
By Andrew Hoggard, President Federated Farmers NZ For those wondering what Feds’ position on He Waka Eke Noa is – well, at this stage my opinion hasn’t changed from what I outlined prior to Christmas. Both options have some benefits over the ETS, the ‘backstop’ alternative imposed by the Government, they each have positives and […]
Feds: High price on NZ farmers will increase global emissions
Price penalties won’t drive down livestock emissions without affordable and practical new technologies being available to farmers – unless the aim is to kill off the sector, Federated Farmers says. The Federation is baffled by comments by Climate Change Minister James Shaw that “…Pricing isn’t the only tool in the toolbox, but it remains the […]
Free lunchtime chats to boost farmer resilience
Three of New Zealand’s foremost motivational speakers on resilience and mental wellbeing will offer tips for farmers and growers in a series of free online lunchtime talks. Isolation and the sometimes stressful nature of agriculture, with severe weather and volatile trading conditions out of their control, puts pressure on rural families. “The added restrictions, health […]
Coroner inquest delays, case blow-out concerns Federated Farmers
A dramatic drop in the number of coroner’s inquests being undertaken and long delays before cases are heard and findings released are concerning trends, Federated Farmers health and safety spokesperson Karen Williams says. “From media reports it does seem that our coroners are sinking under the workload. They shouldn’t be put in this situation,” Karen, […]
DSM receives positive EFSA opinion for methane-reducing feed additive Bovaer
Royal DSM, a global purpose-led science-based company, today announces that it has received a positive European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) opinion for the use of its novel methane-reducing feed additive for ruminants, Bovaer®, in the European Union. The EFSA opinion confirms that the feed additive reduces enteric methane emissions from dairy cows and is safe for […]
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.