Markets resilient, farmers hopeful
OPINION: The global dairy market continues to show resilience, and farmers remain cautiously optimistic as we move into the latter half of 2025.
Tractor sales in New Zealand last year hit a ten-year high and Waikato played its part.
With last year’s record dairy payout underpinning rural confidence, it’s no surprise 2014 was a record for new tractor deliveries nationwide.
With around 4000 units sold, dealers and importers were smiling and lots of farmers got rid of their old clunkers.
The mighty Waikato, dairy dependent, held top position with at least 600 registrations of over-40hp units delivered to farmers and contractors.
Case IH New Zealand recently celebrated near Hamilton its achievement of being the leading tractor brand in Waikato – at least 150 units sold by dealers in Cambridge, Otorohanga, Paeroa and Huntly.
Awards were presented to the dealer principals, and sales, parts and service teams were recognised for their tremendous efforts.
Case IH operations manager for NZ, Tim Fanning, says it’s a great feeling to get first position in a market where the competition is fierce.
“We know we have great products, but without the help of great people at our dealerships, and the best backup, you can’t be
a market leader,” he told Rural News.
Fanning also thanked the farmers and contractors who supported the brand and its dealerships, “for their support in helping us reach this milestone”.
Asked how 2015 was shaping up, he noted, “this looks like it will be another solid year for tractor sales, as the long term outlook keeps confidence high”.
Tel. 0800 CASEIH
Federated Farmers says the Government’s latest investment in road resilience is a positive step toward protecting rural communities and freight routes from increasing severe weather events.
The stockfood storage capacity of J Swap Stockfoods continues to grow in the South Island with the opening of a new store that boosts its capacity in Christchurch and work starting on another store in Southland.
Fonterra has lifted and narrowed its full year forecast earnings range to 60-70 cents per share after a strong quarter, supported by robust milk production, strong shipment volumes and continued demand across its Ingredients and Foodservice businesses.
Fonterra has announced it will continue with the planned expansion of its organic business into the South Island.
New Zealand farmers have been told they all have amazing people on their farms and have been urged to be “that one person” that can make a huge difference to those going through tough times.
OPINION: For thousands of Southland farmers, this week would have tipped them into the non-compliant category when it comes to following regional freshwater plan rules. But the Government has stepped in to give them the clarity they deserve.