Green but not much grass!
Dairy farmers in the lower North Island are working on protecting next season, according to Federated Farmers dairy chair Richard McIntyre, who farms just north of the Horowhenua township of Levin.
OPINION: Former Federated Farmers president Andrew Hoggard rocked the local political scene last week by stepping down early from his farmer leader role to announce that he will contest the next election under the ACT Party banner.
There will be questions around why ACT and not National. Whatever the reasons, it's a prize catch for ACT.
The high-profile Manawatu farmer is well liked in the farming community as a straight shooter and is also a regular commentator in the media on farming-related issues. In his last opinion piece for the Feds, Hoggard has described the Government's proposed emissions pricing plan as "unacceptable".
Meanwhile, Hoggard's Twitter account, with over 3,300 followers, is now locked. His Twitter profile has changed to "Opinionated dairy farmer from Kiwitea".
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.
OPINION: Canterbury milk processor Synlait is showing no sign of bouncing back from its financial doldrums.
OPINION: It seems every bugger in this country can get an award these days.