Some primary industries are hiring staff from overseas, whereas there are many young Maori ready to enter the workforce, says chairman of the Export Industry Skills Analysis Advisory Group, Peter Douglas.

The 2014 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards will take place in 11 regions, including a merged Southland/Otago region.

The Fonterra Shareholders' Council and DairyNZ have welcomed the 50c increase in forecast Farmgate Milk Price.

Fonterra has lifted its forecast farmgate milk price for the 2013-14 season by 50 cents to $7.50/kgMS.

Despite the drought, more farmers turned to LIC for animal health and artificial breeding services in 2012-13.

A large portfolio of South Waikato dairy farms and one drystock property, converted by Carter Holt Harvey from forestry land, have now all sold.

Fonterra is lowering its 2013 earnings before interests and taxes (EBIT), blaming the drought and its struggling Australian business.

Continuing a recent trend, a new farm and business confidence survey shows farmers are optimistic about their prospects.

Westland Milk says its new infant formula range launched in China last week is attracting strong interest from consumers.

Is this the industry's next supersire? CRV Ambreed certainly thinks so.