Live exports set to resume next year - Hoggard
Shipments of live animals by sea should be possible in the second half of next year, according to Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard.
The end of live exports by sea could mark a ‘new dawn’ for animal welfare, both in New Zealand and across the globe.
That’s according to Veterinarians for Animal Welfare Aotearoa (VAWA) managing director Dr Helen Beattie.
The last live export ship left New Zealand last month and Beattie says the decision to ban livestock exports by sea, which takes effect today, is a testament to New Zealand’s commitment to animal welfare.
“This monumental move elevates the country’s status as a global leader in animal welfare and sets a precedent for other nations to follow,” she says. “In addition to the animal welfare benefits, there are environmental benefits through reduced use of fossil energy in shipping and less effluent being washed directly into the ocean.”
She says the ban could serve as a catalyst for other countries.
“For example, we are pleased to see the Australian Government moving to ban the live export of sheep by sea - this is a step in the right direction and hopefully a move towards a wider ban. We invite other governments to evaluate their animal welfare policies and to progress reforms to improve the lives of animals in their care.”
Beattie says the ban is a ‘powerful statement’ against what she says are inhumane practices that impact animals.
She adds that it reaffirms New Zealand’s commitment to prioritising animal welfare and sends a message that the suffering of animals is not an acceptable cost of doing business.
“By eliminating this ‘export segment of suffering’ that has financially benefited only a few, a beacon is lit that can fuel further progress for animal welfare, both locally and globally. This could change the lives of billions of animals for the better.”
Holstein Friesian excellence was front and centre at the 2025 Holstein Friesian NZ (HFNZ) Awards, held recently in Invercargill.
The work Fonterra has done with Ballance Agri-Nutrients Ltd, LIC and Ravensdown to save farmers time through better data connections has been recognised with a national award.
This past week has seen another round of negotiations between India and New Zealand to produce a free trade agreement (FTA) between the two countries.
Cautiously optimistic is how DairyNZ's regional manager for the lower North Island, Mark Laurence describes the mood of farmers in his patch.
The Infrastructure Commission has endorsed a plan by Chorus to expand fibre broadband to 95% of New Zealand much to the delight of rural women.
Questions are being raised about just how good the state of the dairy industry is - especially given that the average farmgate payout for the coming season is set to exceed $10/kgMS.
OPINION: Dust ups between rural media and PR types aren't unheard of but also aren't common, given part of the…
OPINION: The Hound hears from his canine pals in Southland that an individual's derogatory remarks on social media have left…