Bucknell to chair NZPork's board
NZPork has appointed Auckland-based Paul Bucknell as its new chair.
Patoa Farms Limited, New Zealand's largest pig farm, has been sold for an undisclosed price.
Established close to 30 years ago by the Sterne and Ravn families, the farm has a substantial 900 hectares of land in the Hurunui district in North Canterbury.
It was initially established as a project to farm pigs outdoors and at scale.
Following the departure of the Ravns around 12 years ago, the farm has been owned by the Sterne Family Trust and run by Steve Sterne and his family.
The new owners are a consortium with extensive involvement in New Zealand's pork industry.
The consortium is led by David Lawton, Patoa’s long time veterinarian, animal health and productivity consultant, and Nick Harris, Managing Director of Harris Farms Limited based in Cheviot, North Canterbury.
Lawton says the consortium will continue pig farming and pork supply, operating the business as usual.
"I know Steve Sterne is delighted that the farm and his legacy will be continued by a group who share his vision and commitment to the New Zealand pork industry, Patoa’s staff, and the local community," he says.
A Palmerston North shearer has been sentenced to six months' community detention and 12 months' supervision after being found to have physically abused three lambs while shearing them.
Power Farming has launched a joint venture in Southland.
Food rescue charity Meet the Need has released its 2025/26 Impact Report, revealing a record year of growth alongside a stark warning: demand for food support across New Zealand is rising faster than supply can keep up.
As we move into the second half of 2026, the Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA) reports that Year-to-Date figures ending June 30 saw new tractor deliveries hitting 1,386 units or 10.7% ahead of the same period in 2025.
The avocado sector is entering the new season with a larger crop and positive market opportunities.
New Zealand growers have always adapted to changing conditions, but one challenge is steadily gaining ground across the horticulture sector: resistance.

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