MSA triumph
OPINION: Methane Science Accord, a farmer-led organisation advocating for zero tax on ruminant methane, will be quietly celebrating its first foray into fertiliser co-operative governance.
Greg Campbell has taken over from long-serving CEO Rodney Green as head of the billion-dollar farmers' co-operative, Ravensdown.
Campbell was previously CEO of Ngai Tahu Holdings Corporation and brings international experience as a chief executive. He is in on the boards of a number of companies and has previously been on the board of PGG Wrightson.
"The agricultural sector is the pillar of New Zealand's economic prosperity and it's important we manage our soil, water and air in a sustainable manner," Campbell says.
"Carefully-managed pasture-based production is the best way to meet our output targets while taking care of the environment," he says.
He says the co-operative structure of Ravensdown appeals to him, as the company is not driven by share price or short-term focus.
"Essentially the profits are returned to our owners and customers. We are able to invest in products and services that will underpin the company, our owners' businesses and the future of New Zealand agriculture."
The Chairman of Ravensdown, Bill McLeod says: "Greg is someone who will continue the innovative direction Ravensdown has taken for some years while maintaining the culture we have with customers, staff and suppliers."
At Pāmu’s Kepler Farm in Manapouri, mating has wrapped up at the across-breed Beef Progeny Test.
More than 150 people turned up at Parliament recently to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ).
Biosecurity New Zealand says Kiwis should continue to keep an eye out for yellow-legged hornets (Vespa velutina) over the holiday season.
The Push-Up Challenge, an event which combines mental health and fitness, is set to launch in New Zealand in 2026.
Last month's Agritechnica event led to a wide group of manufacturers celebrating successes when the 2026 Tractor of the Year Competition winners, selected by a panel of European journalists, were announced in Hanover Germany.
According to the latest Federated Farmers banking survey, farmers are more satisfied with their bank and less under pressure, however, the sector is well short of confidence levels seen last decade.