Farmer confidence dips slightly, but positivity still dominates
Farmer confidence has taken a slight dip according to the final Rabobank rural confidence survey for the year.
National Lamb Day celebrates New Zealand’s food industry roots and the dedication of today’s farmers and producers.
National Lamb Day, the annual celebration honouring New Zealand’s history of lamb production, could see a boost in 2025 as rural insurer FMG and Rabobank sign on as principal partners.
Ag Proud and Beef + Lamb New Zealand will lead the campaign, reinforcing the day’s importance to both New Zealand’s history and its agricultural sector.
Marking the anniversary of the first frozen lamb shipment on February 15, 1882, National Lamb Day celebrates New Zealand’s food industry roots and the dedication of today’s farmers and producers.
Jon Pemberton, chair of the National Lamb Day committee, says the committee is “thrilled” to have FMG and Rabobank sign on for 2025.
“Their support brings tremendous value to this celebration of New Zealand’s proud agricultural heritage,” Pemberton says.
He says National Lamb Day is about honouring farmers and food producers, adding that having both companies on board strengthens the day’s ability to highlight the legacy and future of New Zealand lamb.
“We look forward to an exciting campaign that inspires Kiwis across the country to come together and raise a chop to an industry that has played such a significant role in our national prosperity,” Pemberton adds.
FMG client propositions manager, Karen Williams, says supporting National Lamb Day is an opportunity for the insurer to give back to farming communities.
“This day is a reminder of the hard work and passion behind every lamb chop and the industry’s contribution to our economy and culture,” Williams says.
Meanwhile, Rabobank chief executive Todd Charteris says the bank is proud to support the event.
“National Lamb Day aligns with our commitment to foster a sustainable future for food production in New Zealand,” Charteris says.
“We are delighted to celebrate the Kiwi farmers who produce quality lamb for customers here in New Zealand and around the world, and who help strengthen our agricultural legacy.”
A stable but uncertain year lies ahead for New Zealand primary products, says Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Director General, Ray Smith.
Additional tariffs introduced by the Chinese Government last month on beef imports should favour New Zealand farmers and exporters.
Primary sector leaders have praised the government and its officials for putting the Indian free trade deal together in just nine months.
Primary sector leaders have welcomed the announcement of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and New Zealand.
Dairy farmers are still in a good place despite volatile global milk prices.
Legal controls on the movement of fruits and vegetables are now in place in Auckland’s Mt Roskill suburb, says Biosecurity New Zealand Commissioner North Mike Inglis.

OPINION: When he promised an Indian FTA in his first term, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon was really putting it all…
OPINION: MPI's response to the yellow-legged hornet has received a mixed report card from New Zealand Beekeeping Inc (NZBI), with…