Conditions are looking better than forecast for the country’s dairy farmers.

A leading farm accountant and consultant believes the dairy industry has turned a corner as the rural sector navigates a downturn.

There's a glimmer of hope that NZ red meat producers will have a better year in 2024, despite Rabobank's most recent annual Global Animal Protein Production Outlook report predicting a slowdown or decline across some protein types this year.

Last year's fourth quarter Rabobank Rural Confidence survey found New Zealand farmer confidence rebounding strongly off the back of improved dairy farmer sentiment, with farmers across all sectors more optimistic about the prospects for the agri economy.

OPINION: Hill Country farmers and foresters have common concerns about regulations and climate change.

It's a real challenge for the country's red meat sector.

Dairy

The past year has been one of extremes in almost every way; from weather to costs - it appears as if everything that has happened in 2023 has been big. However, while there have been extreme hindrances, there have also been notable victories for farmers during the year. Leo Argent looks back on 2023 and highlights the moments - big and small.

While warmer than average temperatures are expected across most of the country until Christmas, commodity prices are showing a somewhat more stable outlook for the season ahead.

Recent rains are almost the last straw for sheep and beef farmers in Tairawhiti.