Damien O’Connor Criticises Budget 2026 as ‘Miserable’ for Rural New Zealand
A miserable budget that didn’t deliver much for anyone.
OPINION: A mate of yours truly wonders if outgoing Agriculture Minister Damien O'Connor will now call it a day on his 30-year long political career.
Not only did O'Connor's Labour Party take a drubbing on election night, but he also lost his West Coast seat to the infamously labelled 'F#$%ing useless' Maureen Pugh.
While O'Connor got back into parliament, courtesy of his high list placing, one would have to wonder if the 63-year-old fancies a likely (at least) six years in opposition before getting back into government again.
That would see him nearing 70 years of age and frankly well past his use-by date.
As a list MP, O'Connor can depart from Parliament without triggering an expensive by-election and the next 'union flunky or gay gagglist' (to paraphrase his own words) from the Labour list can take his place.
Horticulture New Zealand’s Board has welcomed the re-election of grower-elected directors Alistair Petrie and Doug Brown.
The bright ideas of New Zealand's primary sector have been celebrated with an announcement of the winners of the 2026 Innovation Awards.
Newly appointed Federated Farmers vice president Sandra Faulkner says she is honoured and excited to hold the role.
New Zealand's top fencers were out in force at National Fieldays this month, demonstrating their skills with the ever-reliable number 8 wire.
New Federated Farmers president Colin Hurst says he will ensure that farmer voices are heard loud and clear wherever decisions are being made.
Paynes Titus Excelsior ET, an LIC bull bred by Brad Payne and Claire Brodie in the Waikato, has won the JT Thwaites Sire of the Season 2026 Award.

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