M.I.A.
OPINION: The previous government spent too much during the Covid-19 pandemic, despite warnings from officials, according to a briefing released by the Treasury.
Westpac says it is offering financial support to business customers affected by the latest COVID-19 lockdown.
The relief package features a range of possible support options, which may include:
Retail customers experiencing hardship due to COVID-19 impacts should also contact the bank, it says.
Westpac NZ acting chief executive Simon Power says anyone who’s feeling worried or uncertain about their immediate future should contact the bank.
“We really want to talk to customers who are concerned about their finances, whether it’s household savings or cashflow at their business,” Power says.
“We have a range of ways you can do your banking through lockdown without leaving your home, to help reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19, whether it’s online or on the phone.
“Please get in touch early so we can work through your options. Together, we’ll get through this.”
Customers who have been affected by the latest lockdown should call us on 0800 738 691 to discuss their individual needs.
Farmers have voted to continue the Milksolids Levy that funds DairyNZ.
Fonterra chief executive Miles Hurrell has resigned after eight years in the role.
Matt McRae, a farmer from Mokoreta in Southland who runs a sheep, beef and dairy support business alongside a sheep stud, has been elected to the Beef +Lamb NZ Board as a farmer director.
Ravensdown's next evolution in smart farming technology, HawkEye Pro, was awarded the Technology Section Award at the Southern Field Days Farm Innovation Awards in February 2026.
While mariners may recognise a “dog watch” as a two-hour shift on a ship, the Good Dog Work Watch is quite a different concept and the clever creation of Southland siblings Grace (9) and Archer Brown (7), both pupils at Riverton Primary School.
Philip and Lyneyre Hooper of the Hoopman Family Trust have tonight been named the Taranaki Regional Supreme Winners at the Ballance Farm Environment Awards.

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