Strong growth in farm salaries - report
A new report shows farm employers across the dairy, sheep and beef, and arable sectors have continued to invest strongly in one of their greatest assets – their staff.
While dairy faces another tough year, Rabobank foresees a generally strong year ahead for most other agricultural sectors.
Rabobank general manager of Food & Agribusiness Research Tim Hunt says solid demand in key offshore markets, recent progress in export development and generally tight global supply is likely to bring another good year for New Zealand producers of beef, wool and horticultural products.
"While beef prices have lost some ground in recent months, they remain well above multi-year average levels, and are expected to receive support from a generally tight global market," he says, commenting on the banks Agribusiness Outlook 2016.
"Wool producers will face headwinds from cheap synthetic fibres, but see support from declining production in New Zealand and Australia."
Hunt says the wine industry was looking set for a better year in 2016, with improved climatic conditions likely to underpin an increase in production, average prices holding up well and good momentum for New Zealand product sales in the US and Chinese market.
"The trend in consumer preferences is positive for New Zealand wine, as we see a shift towards higher-priced wine and lighter styles," he says.
Farmer-led charity, Meat the Need is calling for donations to enable it to supply more meals to families in need.
Weaker pricing and demand from China continue to impact New Zealand red meat export earnings.
Fonterra has cemented its position as the country’s number one cheesemaker by picking up nine NZ Champion of Cheese trophies this year.
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.