New industry body aims to unite and rebuild strong wool industry
A new levying body, currently with the working title of NZWool, has been proposed to secure the future of New Zealand's strong wool sector.
Wool is on the cusp of a renaissance that will kick off Monday in the presence of the Prince of Wales, says Federated Farmers.
Feds' meat and fibre chairperson Jeanette Maxwell and president Bruce Wills will attend the Shear Brilliance, which the Prince is opening.
Maxwell says the Federated Farmers Meat & Fibre Council has resolved to publically support the Campaign for Wool, of which, the Prince of Wales is patron.
"Natural fibres, like wool, are the most sustainable things we can put into our homes and businesses, or on ourselves for that matter. The global wool industry has been on the back foot and as farmers, we realise the need for us to get on the front foot," says Maxwell.
"That is why president Bruce Wills and I are attending the Shear Brilliance event because wool is brilliant.
"To prove we are putting words into action, Federated Farmers Meat & Fibre Council further resolved to encourage members and indeed, all farmers, to get involved in the Wools of New Zealand discussions now taking place.
"We are publicising meetings and will provide forums for discussion because the status quo has failed us farmers. That means it is incumbent on farmers to grab the comb and get stuck in," Maxwell says.
Changed logos on shirts otherwise it will be business as usual when Fonterra’s consumer and related businesses are expected to change hands next month.
Reflecting on the past year, Horticulture New Zealand chief executive Kate Scott says there has been a lot to celebrate.
Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Director General Ray Smith is giving a big shout-out to the horticulture sector, especially kiwifruit.
Early forecasts for New Zealand's apples and pears point to a standout season marked by exceptional fruit quality and high pack-out rates.
Tickets are now available for Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s (B+LNZ) Out the Gate, returning from 19-21 May 2026 at Te Pae, Christchurch.
Dairy Women's Network (DWN) is welcoming AgriHealth as a new partner.

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