New Zealand agricultural companies were able to pitch their products and services directly to potential China partners in Auckland last week.

Fonterra is committed to playing a role in advancing Maori farming interests, says chairman John Wilson.

It feels great to be acknowledged in this way and a huge honour.

Despite the low milk price there was a positive vibe among the 33 finalists competing for the NZ Dairy Awards this year.

Former Fonterra director Colin Armer is voting against the co-op's governance and representation proposal, which causes him some worries.

Fonterra this month announced a market-based payout for organic milk of $9.20/kgMS for the new season, up from the $5.65/kgMS it currently pays for organic milk.

The notion that 50/50 sharemilkers will one day own their farms seems to be disappearing.

Deputy Prime Minister Bill English has acknowledged the dairy industry's contribution to pulling New Zealand out of the 2008-09 recession.

Fonterra chief executive Theo Spierings says the long term fundamentals for global dairy remain positive.

Fonterra's new-season forecast farmgate milk price is "conservative" but the co-op expects the market to rebalance within 6-12 months, says Fonterra chairman John Wilson.