Leah Prankerd: A passion for dairying and farmer support
It was love that first led Leah Prankerd to dairying.
DairyNZ is urging "future-focused" farmers to consider standing in its upcoming board election.
Sitting director Jacqueline Rowarth is retiring by rotation after serving three years on the board. She is seeking re-election.
Nominations must be received by the Returning Officer by noon on Friday, September 3.
In a statement DairyNZ says farmers with a strong interest in supporting the past year has presented its own set of challenges for farmers and the sector, including workforce shortages, regulatory change and extreme weather events. "Our farmers are currently the most sustainable milk producers in the world and have made significant progress to prepare for the future, but farmers are operating in a challenging climate," says van der Poel.
"DairyNZ is in a unique position to support dairy farmers with leading research and science, and to advocate on behalf of farmers to influence future policy changes."
The DairyNZ board oversees the industry-good body's strategy, which guides future investments into a range of programmes, including industry research and development; sustainable farming; promoting careers in dairy; advocating for farmers and monitoring the strategy's delivery.
"The DairyNZ team are dedicated to helping farmers face upcoming challenges and continue improving their businesses to prosper," says van der Poel.
As New Zealand marks International Day of Rural Women today, women from across the horticulture sector are calling attention to the crucial role they play in building a more sustainable, inclusive and climate-resilient industry.
Listed rural trader PGG Wrightson chair Garry Moore and his deputy Sarah Brown have been voted out by shareholders.
It was love that first led Leah Prankerd to dairying.
DairyNZ has appointed Dr Jenny Jago to a newly created leadership team role - science partnerships & impact advisor - as part of a strategic refresh of the organisation's science leadership.
OPINION: Public pressure has led to Canterbury Police rightly rolling back its proposed restructure that would have seen several rural police stations closed in favour of centralised hubs.
When I interview Rachel Cox, she is driving - on her way to her next meeting.