LIC Reports Record Six-Week In-Calf Rate for Dairy Herds
New season data from LIC shows a strong reproductive performance for the 2025-26 season, with a lift in key metrics compared to last season.
LIC chief executive Wayne McNee will leave the farmer-owned co-operative in November after eight years in the role.
LIC chair Murray King says McNee advised the board of his intention to stand down.
King says McNee has led the organisation through a period of significant growth and development across all areas of the business while delivering strong shareholder returns.
"Over the past year, Wayne and his leadership team led LIC through the challenges of Covid-19 and the co-op is on track to deliver record results for the fourth consecutive year."
McNee joined LIC after a stint as Ministry for Primary Industries director-general.
He is proud of what LIC has achieved over the past eight years.
"In particular the transformation of the business into a modern progressive co-operative, with significant improvements to the way LIC operates, major investment in digital capability and delivery, and working closely with the board to implement a share structure that is fit for purpose.
"I am proud to be leaving LIC in great shape for the future, which is critical given its role as the DNA of the New Zealand dairy sector. LIC is a unique agri-technology company which adds huge value to the New Zealand economy, and is increasingly playing a role helping farmers deal with the environmental challenges they face," McNee said.
King says the board will commence a search for a replacement immediately and expects a good talent pool of both internal and external candidates.
Federated Farmers is urging the Government to put a halt to Waikato Regional Council's controversial Plan Change 1 (PC1), warning the regulations will impose significant costs, complexity and duplication on thousands of farmers while major national reforms remain unresolved.
Joshua Irving has been named the 2026 Ormond Nurseries North Canterbury Young Viticulturist of the Year.
Vets say they support the responsible use of virtual fencing and virtual herding technology for cattle and wants to work with farmers, manufacturers and government to help shape standards for future use backed by ongoing research to strengthen animal welfare outcomes.
National and world records tumbled as top Kiwi axeman claimed two Stihl Timbersports world titles at the same event in Budapest, Hungary over the first weekend in June.
A safety push across New Zealand has revealed significant gaps in hazardous substances management, farm vehicles, tractors, quad bikes and side-by-sides.
New Zealand farmers have earned a global edge by consistently yet cautiously taking advantage of emerging agri-technology.
OPINION: Reckless action by Greenpeace in 2024 forced Fonterra to shut down a drying plant for four hours, costing the co-op…
OPINION: The global crusade against fossil fuel is gaining momentum in some regions.