Fonterra, Sharesies join to make share trading easier
Fonterra is teaming up with wealth app provider Sharesies to make it easier for its farmer shareholders to trade co-op shares among themselves.
A Dutch start-up is joining forces with Fonterra's Farm Source to launch collar-mounted sensors for cows.
Connecterra, which uses artificial intelligence to deliver insights to dairy farmers, says it has signed a deal with Fonterra for the sale of its intelligent dairy assistant (Ida) platform in New Zealand.
The technology combines behaviour data collected via proprietary collar-mounted sensors with data from internet-connected farm systems, farm equipment and third-party sources.
Ida then uses artificial intelligence to translate the data into real-time, easy-to-understand insights in the app. Users respond to insights with just a few taps. This feedback is processed using machine learning, allowing Ida to become smarter and more personalised for each farm over time.
Connecterra says the NZ launch follows the completion of a successful two-year trial at Cloverlea Farm, a split calving farm in South Waikato.
Owner Chris Poole sees a clear difference in Ida and believes the technology can be a game changer for Kiwi farmers.
"Ida's technology is different. She learns you and your farm. It's easy to see the difference in our in-calf rates and animal health. There is so much potential for other farms in New Zealand," says Poole.
The nationwide rollout began in the South Waikato region in August. With mating season underway, Connecterra says customers are already using Ida to help with tasks such as detecting heats and drafting for insemination.
"Our goal is to empower farmers globally to increase productivity while reducing the impact of farming on the planet.
"After seeing strong, positive results during the pilot, we're pleased to see Ida technology scale across New Zealand," said Yasir Khokhar, chief executive of Connecterra.
He says to celebrat Ida's arrival in New Zealand, Connecterra is offering a special introductory price for Farm Source customers and Fonterra suppliers who subscribe before January 31.
The country’s 4200 commercial fruit and vegetable growers will vote from May 14 on a new HortNZ levy.
Meat processor Alliance Group is asking farmer shareholders to inject more capital in order to remain a 100% co-operative.
A vet is calling for all animals to be vaccinated against a new strain of leptospirosis (lepto) discovered on New Zealand dairy farms in recent years.
Dairy
Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.
Telco infrastructure provider Chorus says that it believes all Kiwis – particularly those in the rural areas – need access to high-speed, reliable broadband.