Lamb returns forecast to remain low
The latest report from ANZ isn’t good news for sheep farmers: lamb returns are forecast to remain low.
ANZ says businesses are now realising the advantages of clean transport options and this is driving huge change.
"Customers are increasingly coming to us for support and guidance, asking us what they can do, and how they can invest to future proof their businesses," says Lorraine Mapu, ANZ managing director for business.
In response, the bank says it has expanded the scope of its Business Green Loan. This means business customers can now use the loan to replae their fossil-fuelled fleet with electric vehicles.
"An important part of our role as a bank is to support the shift to more sustainable practices by removing some of the cost barriers businesses face," Mapu says. "Investing in clean transportation can help reduce emissions and increase efficiency."
She says expanding its Business Green Loan to include electric vehicles and clean transport options is one important way the bank can help.
ANZ's Business Green Loan allows eligible customers to borrow up to $3 million at a special floating rate. This can be used for investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, sustainable land and water us, and the building renovating, or purchasing of green buildings and clean transport.
"Farmers who have taken up the loan, have told us that the special rate meant that it made good sense from a business standpoint, and this helped justify their decision to make a change," Mapu claims.
The country’s 4200 commercial fruit and vegetable growers will vote from May 14 on a new HortNZ levy.
Meat processor Alliance Group is asking farmer shareholders to inject more capital in order to remain a 100% co-operative.
A vet is calling for all animals to be vaccinated against a new strain of leptospirosis (lepto) discovered on New Zealand dairy farms in recent years.
Dairy
Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.
Telco infrastructure provider Chorus says that it believes all Kiwis – particularly those in the rural areas – need access to high-speed, reliable broadband.
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