Farming Leader Katie Milne Steps into Politics for National
Former Federated Farmers president Katie Milne is National’s candidate for the West Coast- Tasman seat in this year’s general election.
National’s Agriculture spokesperson, Todd Muller is urging banks to better support farmers amid the Covid-19 outbreak.
Muller says farmers are providing some much-needed stability to the economy otherwise suffering from Covid-19.
He says banks can support the economy by looking at new ways to support farmers amid the pandemic.
“Our food producers are critically important in times like this. No matter how challenging the global environment, people need to eat and our superb farming families give us a competitive advantage and the capacity to trade ourselves out of a recession,” says Muller.
“While red meat and dairy exports remain strong, the effects of drought are continuing to hammer farmers and many are struggling to pay the bills.
“I think our banks should provide these farmers with some assistance by allowing overdraft extensions. Working capital is vital for farmers to be able to keep their stock in good condition to enable them to maintain strong levels of production next season.
“It’s important for the entire country that our primary sector remains in good health. It is a vital part of our economy and New Zealand needs it to perform to weather this crisis.”
More than 1200 exhibitors will showcase their products and services at next month’s National Fieldays, with sites nearly sold out.
Despite difficult trading conditions for European machinery manufacturers brought about conflicts in Ukraine and Iran, alongside the United States imposing punitive tariffs, Italian manufacturer Maschio Gaspardo, has seen turnover increase 12% in 2025 to €390 million (NZ$775m) with a net profit of €11.2 million (NZ$22.3).
New Zealand innovation company Techion, best known for its animal diagnostics platform, FECPAK has signed an exclusive strategic partnership with Farmlands to bring independent animal health disease intelligence to its customers.
Zespri says it welcomes the recently signed Western Bay of Plenty Regional Deal, describing it as an important step towards supporting growth in the region and for New Zealand's kiwifruit industry.
Troubled milk processor Synlait has lost its third chief executive in five years.
Westgold butter has been named New Zealand's tastiest in a blind tasting conducted by Consumer New Zealand.