THE MAN heading Power Farming Group predicts a new golden era for New Zealand farming.

THE PROPOSED Ruataniwha Water Storage Scheme (RWSS) is now one of the most hotly debated topics in Hawkes Bay.

THE AUSTRALIAN Government estimates a small outbreak of foot and mouth disease (FMD) – one or two sites quickly contained and slaughtered – would cost the Australian livestock industry about A$7 billion in the first 12 months.

A GROUP of UK sheep and beef farmer representatives say they share New Zealand farmers' concerns about profitability in the sector, but are optimistic for the future.

ARE THE best rams on the flat still the best rams when run on hard hill?

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

THE AMERICANS are excited about a Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement because those markets will be the areas of world population growth, says Craig Lynch from Beef+Lamb NZ.

New Zealand farmers are reporting a significantly improved outlook for the year ahead, with a big rally recorded in the latest quarterly Rabobank Rural Confidence Survey.

Rabobank forecasts New Zealand's beef prices to firm next quarter, as supplies tighten after the higher, drought-induced slaughter volumes, and forecasts of a wetter-than-average winter also encourage producers to retain stock.

Farmgate prices for cattle have continued to head higher over the last two weeks in both islands. This lift was driven by local procurement issues rather than market forces as US imported beef prices continue to drop.