Who's the glutton?
OPINION: We are told there is a wine glut - production outstripping demand worldwide - and the words 'wine lakes' are being thrown around.
Wine growers have welcomed the economic cooperation agreement signed this week between New Zealand and Taiwan, giving New Zealand wine tariff-free access to the Taiwan market as soon as it comes into force next year.
The deal advantages New Zealand wine exporters, says general manager advocacy and trade for New Zealand Winegrowers, Dr John Barker.
"Taiwan is a small but developed market well suited to the premium wine styles New Zealand offers.
"Asia is an increasingly important destination for New Zealand wines. This agreement will make New Zealand the only wine exporter with tariff-free access to China, Hong Kong and Taiwan."
Trade Minister Tim Groser says the deal will benefit New Zealand exporters, "enhancing New Zealand's growth prospects through vastly improved links with a major Asian economy.
"It will immediately eliminate the tariffs for over 70% of current exports to Chinese Taipei, and will eventually allow 100% of New Zealand goods to enter tariff-free."
OPINION: Farmers around the country are welcoming the proposed reform of local government.
A move to boost farmer uptake of low methane emitting sheep is underway.
Silver Fern Farms has tackled the ongoing war-induced shipping challenges to mideast markets by airlifting 90 tonnes of chilled New Zealand lamb and beef to the United Arab Emirates.
The primary sector is leading New Zealand's economic recovery, according to economist and researcher Cameron Bagrie.
Dairy industry leader Jim van der Poel didn't make much of the invitation he received to the recent New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards in Rotorua.
Farmers around the country are going public big time, demanding their local district, city and regional councils come up with amalgamation plans that meet the needs of rural communities and don't allow urban councils to dominate.

OPINION: The old saying 'a new broom sweeps clean' doesn't always hold up, if you ask the Hound.
OPINION: This old mutt went to school to eat his lunch, but still knows the future of the country, and…