Editorial: Punching Above Our Weight
OPINION: With 10,500 dairy farms, New Zealand continues to punch above its weight around the world.
Fonterra has retained its 2021-22 forecast farmgate milk price range of $7.25 - $8.75/kgMS, with a midpoint of $8.
The co-op has also announced a 2021-22 earnings guidance range of 25-40c/share.
Fonterra chief executive Miles Hurrell says the strong milk price is likely to continue.
“A high milk price is good for farmers and good for the New Zealand economy.
“However, this does have the potential to squeeze our sales margins and impact earnings.”
Hurrell says the impact of COVID-19 continues to be felt, particularly across the supply chain.
“We expect competitive tension in the global shipping market to continue this financial year. We have largely been able to mitigate this thanks to the strength of our Kotahi partnership which has allowed us to keep our product moving through the supply chain.”
The co-op’s final payout for last season is $7.74/kgMS; comprising farmgate milk price of $7.54/kgMS and a dividend of 20c/share.
A Palmerston North shearer has been sentenced to six months' community detention and 12 months' supervision after being found to have physically abused three lambs while shearing them.
Power Farming has launched a joint venture in Southland.
Food rescue charity Meet the Need has released its 2025/26 Impact Report, revealing a record year of growth alongside a stark warning: demand for food support across New Zealand is rising faster than supply can keep up.
As we move into the second half of 2026, the Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA) reports that Year-to-Date figures ending June 30 saw new tractor deliveries hitting 1,386 units or 10.7% ahead of the same period in 2025.
The avocado sector is entering the new season with a larger crop and positive market opportunities.
New Zealand growers have always adapted to changing conditions, but one challenge is steadily gaining ground across the horticulture sector: resistance.
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