New Waikato medical school backed by rural sector
Rural health advocates say the Government's decision to establish a new medical school at the University of Waikato augurs well for the rural sector.
Food issues will be dissected in the final of the University of Waikato Winter Lecture Series this week.
In from paddock to plate, two academics and a long-time chef will look at different aspects of food production, how it impacts the regional economy and people's pockets.
Professor of Agribusiness Jacqueline Rowarth thinks we should be paying more for food.
"As they do in many other countries in hidden ways such as taxation, allowing farmers to invest in technology that improves productivity, efficiency and farm sustainability," she says.
Professor Darrin Hodgetts thinks people are paying enough for food already and that food as a human right is increasingly not being realised by a growing number of New Zealanders.
Chef David Kerr, currently unable to cook after breaking his arm in six places at Fieldays, says he feels more like a scientist than a chef these days as more and more of his diners have allergies or food intolerance of some kind or other.
The lecture is on Wednesday, August 29 at 6pm in the Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts.
Engaging, thought provoking speakers, relevant seminars and relatable topics alongside innovative produces and services are the order of the day at the 2026 East Coast Farming Expo.
Farm supplies trader Ruralco has recovered from two consecutive years of losses to post a $1.25 million profit for the 2025 financial year.
Naki Honey, a New Zealand manuka apiary company, has crafted what is believed to be the world's most expensive honey.
OPINION: Wool farmers believe the future of strong wool still holds promise.
Applications are open for Horticulture New Zealand's (HortNZ) 2026 scholarship programme, with 20 funding opportunities available.
OPINION: Farmers are being asked to celebrate a target that changes nothing for the climate, wastes taxpayer money, and ignores real science.