Friday, 08 May 2015 09:18

Pushback

Written by Rural News Group

font size decrease font size increase font size
Print
Email

The Hound understands that more than a few farmers are feeling uncomfortable about the new work health and safety regime onfarm being promoted by WorkSafe NZ.

In fact, one correspondent took time to write to this old mutt’s editor expressing these concerns after our story on these in the last issue. The frustrated farmer was reluctant to publish his letter stating, “It is probably a waste of time publishing... as the Worksafe gestapo are determined to have us all wearing nappies regardless…. Unfortunately the rules they are forcing upon us are insulting, highly inconvenient and time wasting.” Your old mate suggests that WorkSafe NZ still has a fair bit of work to do convincing farmers about the merits of its new onfarm health and safety regulations.

Featured

Māori agribusiness creates value for bobby calves, seeks industry support

A Māori-owned agribusiness helping to turn a long-standing animal welfare and waste issue into a high-value protein stream for the dairy and red meat sectors wants more industry support.

Taranaki dairy farms saved by $10/kgMS payout

Only this season’s $10/kgMS bumper payout has saved some dairy farms along the Taranaki coast from absolute disaster due to the present drought – dubbed as one of the worst ever for some.

Survey reveals high rates of abuse and hardship among contract milkers

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.

Strong turnout for game bird season opening

The 2025 game bird season is underway with Hawke’s Bay and Southland reporting the ideal weather conditions for hunters – rain and wind.

Processors, executives fined for exporting adulterated tallow

A group of meat processing companies, directors and managers have been fined a total of $1.6 million for deliberately and illegally altering exported tallow for profit.

Sheep milk cheddar named NZ’s top cheese

New Zealand’s top cheeses for 2025 have been announced and family-owned, Oamaru-based Whitestone Cheese is the big winner.

National

Persimmons hit supermarket shelves

Harvesting is underway of one of New Zealand’s rarest and most unusual fruit - persimmons.

Wonky Box expands service to rural New Zealand

For Wonky Box co-founder Angus Simms, the decision to open the service to those in rural areas is a personal…

West Auckland's orcharding legacy celebrated in new book tracing industry history and urban impact

The golden age of orcharding in West Auckland was recently celebrated at the launch of a book which tells the…

Helping protect sheep from parasites

Everyone from experienced veterinarians and young professionals to the Wormwise programme and outstanding clinics have been recognised in this year’s…