Vet education needs an overhaul - report
How veterinarians are educated needs to be overhauled, or there will be a sustainability crisis.
A worsening vet shortage has triggered a petition calling for the Government to set aside two MIQ spaces every week for authorised arrivals.
The petition launched on September 21 by Julie South of vet recruitment agency, VetStaff, has collected 302 signatures. The petition closes on October 31.
South told Rural News that the situation is "very dire". She says the 50 overseas vets granted border exceptions in June need MIQ spaces to get into the country.
"And where are we at with MIQ dates already - 2022? How crazy is that? The green light was given in June 2021 and we'll be lucky if they arrive in the New Year."
South says she's flabbergasted that the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) won't set aside MIQ spaces to allow essential workers to get into NZ so they can work here.
New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) chief executive Kevin Bryant says South was in contact with them before launching directly with various government departments on the issue, it decided not to advocate South's petition.
"We appreciate what she's doing as an individual to help our profession," he told Rural News.
South is pleased with the response to her petition.
She says people are surprised that 50 vets were signed off in June and the country is still waiting for them to arrive.
"There is also surprise that government departments aren't supporting other government departments to help get NZ back on its feet again and that MBIE won't allow just two MIQ spaces for essential worker vets each week."
South warns that animal welfare is being compromised as a result of the vet shortage. Staff working long hours were also coming under pressure.
After serving three as a DairyNZ director, Waikato farmer Chris Lewis is ready for another term.
DairyNZ has announced the date for its six-yearly Milksolids Levy vote, which will take place from Monday, 16 February to Friday, 13 March 2026.
LIC has reaffirmed its sponsorship of the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards (NZDIA) by signing up as a national sponsor for another three years.
On track for a fifth consecutive year of organic milk price increases, Fonterra is seeking more suppliers to meet growing global demand.
Converting a Banks Peninsula farm to dairy is expected to reduce its environmental footprint by 46%, say its owner and manager.
Research and healthcare initiatives, leadership and dedication to the sector have been recognised in the 2025 Horticulture Industry Awards.