Big future for hort
The horticulture sector is punching above its weight when it comes to export revenue, according to Westpac industry analyst Paul Clark.
Westpac has launched a new sustainable business loan to support corporate and agribusiness customers to make progress on their sustainability initiatives, whether they are working to improve the environment or achieve positive social outcomes, or both.
Westpac NZ chief executive Catherine McGrath says its customers are telling them that they are seeing strong sentiment for change from their customers, suppliers and shareholders.
"We know that being a sustainable business makes good business sense. It can help to build great teams, connect with consumers, reduce operating costs and support the community.
"So, we have designed a loan to provide tangible support for customers who are wanting to invest in sustainability initiatives.
"This sustainable business loan will help our corporate and agribusiness customers invest in projects that improve the environment, help adapt to climate change, or deliver positive social outcomes for communities or groups.
"It complements the Sustainable Farm Loan but has a more targeted focus on specific assets and projects."
The 2025 game bird season is underway with Hawke’s Bay and Southland reporting the ideal weather conditions for hunters – rain and wind.
A group of meat processing companies, directors and managers have been fined a total of $1.6 million for deliberately and illegally altering exported tallow for profit.
New Zealand’s top cheeses for 2025 have been announced and family-owned, Oamaru-based Whitestone Cheese is the big winner.
Waikato farmer, and Owl Farm demonstration manager, Jo Sheridan is the 2025 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year.
New Zealand’s special agricultural trade envoy Hamish Marr believes the outlook for the dairy sector remains strong.
Everyone from experienced veterinarians and young professionals to the Wormwise programme and outstanding clinics have been recognised in this year’s New Zealand Veterinary Association Te Pae Kīrehe (NZVA) awards.