Green but not much grass!
Dairy farmers in the lower North Island are working on protecting next season, according to Federated Farmers dairy chair Richard McIntyre, who farms just north of the Horowhenua township of Levin.
Farmers are ready to engage and work with the new coalition government, says Federated Farmers.
New Zealand First has chosen to go into partnership with Labour and the Greens for the next three years and the Federation believes there is room of opportunism for its members, wider primary sector, and all New Zealanders.
"We congratulate new Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and the coalition partners on finding a consensus to lead the country," says Katie Milne, Federated Farmers national president.
"Federated Farmers is looking forward to getting around the table and talking about the issues which affect our members and farmers. The primary sector is the backbone of the New Zealand economy so we anticipate the new government will be mindful of that when formulating policy."
Milne says it was time to cast aside the division which fuelled the election campaign and remember that the country’s future prosperity and economic health depended on all New Zealanders sharing a common ground.
"Whether you’re a townie or cockie when it comes down to it, we all have the same hopes and aspirations for our families and communities. Let’s give the new government a chance and let’s hope they can make decisions based on unity and mutual trust."
The Federation was willing to share its industry influence, expertise and insight with the new government and is encouraging members and farmers to look ahead with a positive outlook.
"There’s undoubtedly challenges ahead for those tasked with governing the country. One thing the new government can be sure of is; Federated Farmers is ready to play its part as a primary sector leader and voice of New Zealand farming," says Milne.
Fonterra has cemented its position as the country’s number one cheesemaker by picking up nine NZ Champion of Cheese trophies this year.
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has welcomed a resolution adopted by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly to declare 2026 International Year of the Woman Farmer.
Waikato herd health veterinarian Katrina Roberts is the 2024 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.
OPINION: The new government has clearly signalled big cuts across the public service.
OPINION: Your canine crusader is not surprised by the recent news that New Zealand plant-based ‘fake meat’ business is in…