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OPINION: As your old mate - as well as many in the sector - expected, the Budget had nothing in it for the country's all-important primary sector.
As Federated Farmers curtly pointed out that it asked for "absolutely nothing in this year's Budget, and it's safe to say the Government have exceeded our expectations on that front with no new spending for farmers".
Feds' acting president Wayne Langford said farmers weren't looking for a handout and were happy to stand on their own two feet.
However, he pointed out that his organisation wanted the Government to stop weighing farmers down with impractical, unpragmatic, and unfair regulations.
"We're still waiting for them to deliver on that second request."
Langford added that farmers were having to tighten their belts, count every penny and live within their means, but - unfortunately - the Government wasn't doing the same.
OPINION: You would've missed this one if you rely on mainstream media for your news, but your old mate reckons credit should go where credit's due: Emissions by dairy cattle decreased by 1.6% according to the latest NZ Greenhouse Gas Inventory report.
OPINION: With the Government applying some fiscal discipline to scientific research funding, this mutt thinks it might be timely to look at what's still being done in the ag-science space.
The lack of quality internet coverage in Northland is costing farmers time and money, says Federated Farmers Northland president Colin Hannah.
Ngai Tahu's legal action seeking self-determination (rangatiratanga) over fresh water could have huge implications for the future of farming, the viability of farming businesses, and our wider rural communities, says Federated Farmers national vice president Colin Hurst.
A survey of contract milkers in the dairy sector has revealed some shocking statistics - 43% of respondents reported abusive behaviour from a farm owner and a whopping 72% suffered a mental and/or financial setback in the role.
While opening the first electrode boiler at its Edendale site, Fonterra has announced a $70 million investment in two further new electrode boilers.
Fonterra says its ongoing legal battle with Australian processor Bega Cheese won’t change its divestment plans.
With an amendment to the Medicines Act proposing human medicines could be approved in 30 days if the product has approval from two recognised overseas jurisdictions, there’s a call for a similar approach where possible to be applied to some animal medicines.
The Government wants to make sure that rural communities get a level of service that people who live in cities often complacently expect.
As the New Zealand Government launches negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement with India, one Canterbury-based vegetable seed breeder is already benefiting from exporting to the world's fifth-largest economy.
Onenui Station on Mahia Peninsula in northern Hawke's Bay is a world first in more ways than one.
OPINION: You would've missed this one if you rely on mainstream media for your news, but your old mate reckons…
OPINION: With the Government applying some fiscal discipline to scientific research funding, this mutt thinks it might be timely to…
