Fonterra’s $3.2b capital return to farmers set to boost rural incomes and NZ economy
According to ASB, Fonterra's plan to sell it's Anchor and Mainlands brands could inject $4.5 billion in additional spending into the economy.
FONTERRA'S MILK across New Zealand reached 554 million kgMS last month, up 4.3% on the same month last year.
In its monthly global dairy update issued this morning, the co-op says milk collection volumes peaked at 89.7 million litres per day in mid‑October.
New Zealand has a predominantly pasture-based milk supply curve and production peaks around mid-October every season.
Fonterra says North Island collection in October reached 147 million kgMS, seven million kgMS ahead of October last season.
North Island production growth continues, supported by mild spring temperatures, good soil moisture and strong pasture growth.
South Island collection in October reached 86 million kgMS, three million kgMS ahead of October last season.
Conditions have been variable across the South Island with cooler conditions experienced in central and the lower South Island. However, the co-op says current pasture growth conditions are still supporting increased production compared to last season.
Milk collection across Australia for the four months to October 31 reached 44 million kgMS, four million kgMS ahead of the same period last season.
Favourable spring conditions continued, particularly in Tasmania, where good rain and mild temperatures have continued to drive production growth, Fonterra says.
Milk collection in Australia in October reached 15 million kgMS, one million kgMS ahead of October last season.
According to ASB, Fonterra's plan to sell it's Anchor and Mainlands brands could inject $4.5 billion in additional spending into the economy.
New Zealand’s trade with the European Union has jumped $2 billion since a free trade deal entered into force in May last year.
The climate of uncertainty and market fragmentation that currently characterises the global economy suggests that many of the European agricultural machinery manufacturers will be looking for new markets.
Dignitaries from all walks of life – the governor general, politicians past and present, Maoridom- including the Maori Queen, church leaders, the primary sector and family and friends packed Our Lady of Kapiti’s Catholic church in Paraparaumu on Thursday October 23 to pay tribute to former prime Minister, Jim Bolger who died last week.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister, Todd McClay is encouraging farmers, growers, and foresters not to take unnecessary risks, asking that they heed weather warnings today.
With nearly two million underutilised dairy calves born annually and the beef price outlook strong, New Zealand’s opportunity to build a scalable dairy-beef system is now.

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