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.

US ICONIC company McDonald’s may have dumped lambburgers – but a thriving New Zealand fast-food company plans to take on the land of beef and burgers on its home ground.

The drought cost $1.3billion to June 30, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) says, in its Situation and Outlook report.

Westpac and Meridian Energy are giving farmers easier access to solar energy, with potential savings on power bills in the thousands each year.