Red hot meat returns
He describes the mood as “overwhelmingly positive”.
THE RED meat sector finds itself in “a very rare set of circumstances”, says Federated Farmers meat and wool industry chair Richard Dawkins.
BARBIE AT BEEHIVE
MEAT INDUSTRY Association chief executive Sirma Karapeeva was one of more than 100 industry leaders, diplomats and politicians celebrating National Lamb Day at a BBQ at Parliament earlier this month. The event commemorates the most significant event in the history of the NZ meat industry and the country generally – the sending of the first shipment of frozen sheepmeat from the Totara Estate near Oamaru to Britain on the refrigerated sailing ship Dunedin 144 years ago. Guests at the BBQ were treated to that iconic speciality – the lamb chop. See P4 for more details.
“We’re seeing strong returns across sheep, beef and even wool, which is a welcome change,” Dawkins told Rural News
NZ beef prices are well on course to post a season average record.
BNZ senior economist Doug Steel
“Combined with easing interest rates, good feed conditions and a more supportive policy environment, it’s a very rare set of circumstances for the sector to be operating in.”
says their current forecast for the 2025/26 season is for average prices to be around 23% higher than the previous season.
This follows a couple of tougher seasons in 2022/23 and 2023/24.
“On an inflation adjusted basis,
this season’s average beef price will be the highest since at least 1991,” Steel says.
Beef farmers are certainly seeing that strength on the ground.
According to Dawkins, in some cases, store cattle are selling for more than what prime stock were worth not long ago, which shows just how quickly the market has turned.
The past few seasons have been difficult for red meat farmers. Dawkins says the turnaround this season comes as a real relief.
“Many farmers are using the lift to pay down short term debt and catch up on deferred maintenance.
“But it also gives people hope that, with the outlook looking solid, they may finally be able to reinvest back into their farms and businesses.”
Dawkins expects this season to be a profitable one for many red meat farmers.
“That said, every farm business faces its own pressures, whether that’s weather events, high input costs or succession challenges.
“So, while the overall mood is very positive, we should remain mindful that not everyone will be in the same position.”
Strong wool price boom
JESSICA MARSHALL
jessica@ruralnews.co.nz
THE WORLD is waking up to the disadvantages of carpets derived from petrochemicals, creating opportunities for New Zealand strong wool.
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Strong wool prices are up 130% since 2022 and Andy Caughey, chief executive of Wool Impact, says that this price increase is only partially caused by a reduction in supply.
“One shouldn’t diminish the significant initiatives that are underway both on shore and internationally to increase the price and the demand for New Zealand wool,” Caughey told Rural News
He says that Wool Impact has been active overseas, where 85% of New Zealand’s strong wool is sold.
The organisation has been actively collaborating with Gensler, one of the world’s largest architecture firms.
“They are acknowledging that we can’t continue using petrochemicalbased materials in the way that we have whether it’s the negative impact on human health and wellbeing in the office environment or the disposal at the end of life,” Caughey says.
According to Wool Impact’s latest Impact Report, released in January, wool is now being utilised in numerous different ways, including carpeting and some surprising new uses.
Caughey points to one example of these new uses, here in New Zealand: Two companies, Floc and Ortex, have both launched acoustic panels made from wool.
“This is an amazing application for wool because the fibre has really good sound absorption properties but it’s
also an air purifier, so wool acoustic panels could be the next new wave in popularity for wool products,” he says.
“So, there’s a whole lot of really interesting things happening domestically and we’re anticipating the demand for New Zealand strong wool will increase from around 15,000
INDIA FTA A NET POSITIVE?
ANDY CAUGHEY says that there are some positive impacts to the free trade agreement recently announced between New Zealand and India for the wool sector.
He says that prior to the FTA, the tariff on New Zealand wool entering India was 2.5%, “so in s
tonnes to around 40,000 tonnes within the next five years just from the domestic market.”
Caughey says that the good news for wool growers is that the world appears to have “woken up to what’s happening with petrochemicals”.
He says that consumers are seeking new opportunities to use natural fibres and, for New Zealand, that means there is no shortage of demand internationally for applying wool.
“What we’re missing out on is the capability to go and engage with people outside of wool sector and to make it easy for them to start using wool.
“When you start talking and engaging with people and they discover wool for the first time, there’s a sense of wonder as to why this fibre isn’t more popular and so what we’re seeing is a return to nature and natural fibres and we’re seeing new entrants.”
ome ways the FTA, it’s more than symbolic”.
“What it does do is it removes perceived barriers,” Caughey says.
He says that India sees wool as “a fibre for the future”.
“There’s a real desire to get closer to New Zealand and understand how we work and operate and our farming systems and how we grow wool so that they can build up their own knowledge and skill set as well.”
GLOBAL DAIRY PRICES ON A ROLL
GLOBAL DAIRY prices are on a roll, recording a fourth consecutive jump on the Global Dairy Trade (GDT) auction this year.
The GDT price index has risen over 18% this year, wiping out some of the losses from last year.
The whole milk powder price is now sitting at US$3,706/metric tonne, its highest mark since
September last year.
NZX dairy analyst Lewis Hoggard notes that skim milk powder (SMP) and butter continue to drag dairy prices upwards. In last week’s auction, the butter price jumped 10% while SMP rose 3% and is sitting at a three-year high price of US$2,973/ MT.
“SMP has been the most talked
about commodity as of late, given significant volatility to start 2026,” he says.
The latest rise in GDT prices makes a $9.50/kgMS milk price this season a near certainty.
Major banks have revised their forecast milk price for the season upwards. Fonterra’s latest forecast range is $8.50 to $9.50/kgMS, with a
Caughey says that at this stage, the opportunity for New Zealand’s wool sector is to grow its business as India grows as a “global nation”.
mid-point of $9/kgMS.
BNZ senior economist Doug Steel says that if prices were to remain around current levels for the remainder of the season, a 2025-26 milk price a touch above the top of Fonterra’s forecast range is possible.
Steel says BNZ’s forecast of $9.50 builds in some GDT price decline into season’s end.
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Andy Caughey, chief executive of Wool Impact.
Lamb barbie at the Beehive
AS GUESTS gathered on what is known as the Speaker’s Lawn – a beautifully manicured patch of grass behind the main buildings of Parliament – to mingle and enjoy a lamb chop to celebrate National Lamb Day, the mood was very much upbeat.
The usual key political suspects were there: Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Labour leader Chris Hipkins and Foreign Affairs Minister and NZ First leader Winston Peters, as well as a sprinkling of rural-based MPs.
The past two years have seen the industry dogged by low prices and some terrible weather events, but now prices have lifted and the outlook is essentially positive.
Host of the event
Agriculture Minister Todd McClay told the audience there was good reason to celebrate given that lamb exports have now reached $4 billion and rising. He praised the efforts of our sheep farmers, describing them as hard working and contributing significantly to the economy of NZ. He also had a few comments on the value of the NZ/ India FTA to NZ –especially sheep farmers.
“It is as simple as this. We are country of 5 million people, India has
1.4 billion people. When it enters in force from day one, you will no longer pay a 33% tariff on your lamb exports – your tariff rate will be zero,” he says.
McClay says there are more than 500 million consumers who eat meat and they deserve to eat some of the highest quality lamb in world. Finally, he invited guests to enjoy the lamb, saying “it was slimming”.
Meat Industry Association chair Nathan Guy described the event as a reminder to all politicians and policymakers in Wellington about the importance of the red meat industry to the NZ economy, given that it accounts for $12 billion in
exports.
He says considering despite the vagaries of the geopolitical situation, the fluctuating exchange rate and some domestic policies, the industry does an amazing job and produces a fantastic product.
“The day is raising a
celebration toast to our farmers and processor who have been so successful over the last 144 years,” he says.
B+LNZ chair Kate Acland says it was great to see all the political parties celebrating something they all have in common – a good lamb chop. She
POLLIES GALORE
CELEBRATING NATIONAL Lamb Day also allowed MPs to show their colours – especially given that an election is coming.
While there may have been politicking on the sidelines, there were obvious displays of unity around the importance of lamb to the economy. Steve Able of the Greens and National’s Suze Redmayne chatted freely; Winston Peters was first in the queue to get a lamb chop; Miles Anderson, Barbara Kuriger, Jo Luxton and Damien O’Connor were all part of
the crowd.
says the day was a chance to recognise the vision and entrepreneurial spirit of the men who got those first carcases of sheepmeat to the UK.
“They laid the groundwork for the multibillion dollar industry we have today that benefits farmers and all New
Zealanders,” she says.
Acland praised successive governments and their officials for the work they have done to secure markets for the meat that farmers produce. She also acknowledged the efforts of meat processors and their marketing people
Christopher Luxon worked the gathering and extolled the virtues of lamb and the significance of what happened 144 years ago. He talked about the importance of FTAs, especially the latest one with India, and also the benefits that have flowed from similar agreements with the UK, the EU and the Middle East.
NZ First ag spokesman, Associate Agriculture Minister and farmer, Mark Patterson, described the day as a really great occasion
for their creativeness and agility in getting good prices for farmers.
“Given the challenges the industry has gone through over the past few years, it’s now a good time to be a farmer,” she says.
celebrating the fine heritage of the sheepmeat industry. He says this coincides with the upbeat mood of people at the event.
“There are real feel-good factors with everyone here. There is now a very positive attitude towards farmers and there has been a major turn in sentiment to them,” he says.
Patterson noted the positive mood of farmers and says some of that is due to politicians who have got Wellington more onside with the rural community.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon enjoys a lamp chop at the National Lamb Day celebrations.
For the National Lamb Day, the Speaker’s Lawn at Parliament was turned into a party.
Record crop, returns for kiwifruit growers
SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz
GOOD NEWS for kiwifruit growers – a record crop with forecast per hectare returns at record levels for all fruit categories for the 2025-26 season.
“ It’s really pleasing to be on track to return strong value to growers.”
Zespri released its final forecast for the 2025/26 season last week showing forecast per tray returns have increased from the November forecast for Zespri Green, Organic Green and Organic SunGold, with returns now exceeding the top end of the November ranges. Zespri SunGold, Sweet Green and RubyRed forecast per tray returns remain in line with the November forecast.
The February forecast shows per tray returns for Zespri Green have topped $10, compared to a final price of $8.36 the previous season.
For Zespri Organic Sungold, the forecast has risen to $15.84/tray.
Growers received $15.20/ tray last season.
Zespri chief executive Jason Te Brake says strong global demand has allowed Zespri to sell a record crop of around 215 million trays at strong value for growers.
“The forecast reflects
strong sales in Europe and North America this season, along with a more positive finish in Asia following earlier season challenges.
“Our Northern Hemisphere supply season is also performing well, helping maintain shelf space and keep the Zespri brand in front of customers year-round.
With volumes up 27%, our sales window will extend through to mid-March, around a month longer than last season and with new season New Zealand fruit expected to arrive in market from mid-April, we’re moving closer to closing the supply gap.”
Te Brake says it’s been a collective effort across the industry to deliver such a large crop and meet the growing demand for fruit.
“And it’s really pleasing to be on track to return strong value to growers, including a forecast return of $10 per tray for Green growers,” he says.
Early estimates indicate another record crop of around 220 million trays for the new season.
He adds that getting off to a strong season start and managing fruit quality would be key to maximising and maintaining value in market.
“We’re focused on getting our sales programmes up and running early so that we can capitalise on strong demand for our fruit and reduce the end of season quality risk to our
HARVESTING BEGINS
The
hectares of the Red variety of kiwifruit over the weekend.
It’s the 26-year-old’s first proper crop on the new development, which he runs with brother Deep, wife Jas, parents Major and Jaswinder, and lots of support from siblings, cousins and nieces and nephews.
“We struggled last year and learned some really good lessons and put in a lot of hard work,” he said, during a break in harvest. “We’re pretty happy with the size we’ve managed to achieve this year and we’re really excited to see our kiwifruit get out to customers around the world,” says Gakhal.
markets.
“Selling a large proportion of the crop early in the season will help avoid the late season fruit quality costs we experienced with SunGold last season, with careful inventory management and getting our fruit into the right markets at the right time also critical in optimising grower returns.”
AI Steps into the paddock
PASTURE MANAGEMENT
has traditionally relied on plate meters, lab testing, satellite imagery, various devices, and a fair degree of guesswork. With the exception of laboratory analysis, most tools only estimate pasture cover (kgDM/ha). While lab testing offers deeper insight, it is expensive, slow, and results can sometimes be inconsistent.
A new app, Pasture Ai, aims to change that. Using only a farmer’s smartphone camera and artificial intelligence, the app analyses pasture photos and instantly estimates pasture cover, dry matter
percentage, crude protein, metabolisable energy (MJME), and neutral detergent fibre (NDF).
There are no meters or sensors to purchase, no calibration requirements, and no spreadsheets to manage. The proposition is simple: measure pasture with the depth of a nutritionist, without needing one in the paddock.
Pasture Ai has been extensively tested across a wide range of pasture types and is now rolling out across New Zealand. While the initial focus is on dairy and intensive beef systems, the technology is
applicable to all pasturebased farming operations.
Key benefits include improved understanding of feed composition, more accurate feed allocation, reduced wastage, improved animal performance, and better optimisation of both pasture and supplementary feeding.
The app provides a feed calculator driven primarily by MJME results, and an Ai Assistant designed to support deeper analysis and on-farm decisionmaking.
According to the developers, the goal of Pasture Ai is to “bring
next-level nutritional understanding into everyday paddock decisions.” With rising feed costs and increasing climate variability, tools that improve feed utilisation and reduce waste are attracting growing interest from farmers and advisors.
Pasture Ai is available now on iOS and Android, with farmers able to trial the app and compare results against their current pasture measurement methods. More information is available at www. pastureai.ai, or by downloading Pasture Ai from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
THE NEW Zealand kiwifruit harvest has officially begun.
first kiwifruit harvest of the 2026 season was a true family affair, with three generations of South Auckland orchardist Pav Singh Gakhal’s relatives helping to pick five
Pukekohe kiwifruit grower Pav Singh Gakhal takes a moment to check his crop of Red19, as it is harvested. Photo: Jamie Troughton/Dscribe Media
Standout season a return to form
SUDESH KISSUN
HAWKE’S BAY apple grower Taylor Corporation says a standout 2026 season, coming after a few
difficult years, is boosting optimism among growers.
Marked by exceptional fruit quality and high pack‑out rates, this season is a welcome return to form for the industry after
several challenging years, that included Covid 19 disruptions and extreme weather events.
Taylor Corporation’s Cameron Taylor told Rural News that their 2026 crop
has been outstanding in quality and yield so far.
“After a few difficult seasons, it’s been incredibly encouraging to see the productivity return, which in turn does
feed handling, fencing, transport, and anything you want to throw at it!
a lot to boost optimism throughout the team,” says Taylor.
“Hawke’s Bay had an excellent growing season, and the results are really showing through in the orchard. Long may it last.”
New Zealand Apples and Pears (NZAPI) acting general manager Danielle Adsett says the industry’s return to form is incredibly heartening to see.
“The fruit looks and, most importantly, tastes fantastic. Growers are reporting excellent quality, early pack outs are tracking really well and there’s a real sense of optimism across the industry.
“While we are still building toward previous pre Covid peaks, this year’s improved productivity numbers are the real gamechanger for growers. After an excellent 2025 harvest, this season is also tracking in the right direction.”
At Taylor Corporation’s 450ha orchard, yield isn’t back to pre Covid levels, but Cameron Taylor says they are moving in the right direction.
“Yields are still below pre Covid levels due to the lingering impacts of Cyclone Gabrielle and the time required to grow the tree in the nursery and then for newly planted trees to reach full production.
“However, we are three
years down the road now and can certainly see the return in sight.”
Taylor describes the past few seasons as extremely challenging.
“Covid 19 on its own created significant disruption, and then of course Cyclone Gabrielle followed soon after.
“Having those two major events back to back placed enormous pressure on the business and the wider sector.
“On top of this is a significant increase in operating costs, with insurance, power, gas and compliance costs sky rocketing.”
Taylor says pre cyclone they were already in transition to full hedgerow, high density planting and knew the results it could deliver.
“Seeing the benefits firsthand of this planting style gave us the confidence to continue with this method and replace cyclone damaged orchards with the same systems, albeit faster than originally planned.”
The company is investing in new IP, including new varieties Sassy, Posh and King which have been particularly exciting and well received in export markets.
“Post cyclone we replaced our already state of the art packhouse and continue to invest new technology,” he says.
NEW VARIETIES
NEW ZEALAND Apples and Pears (NZAPI) acting general manager Danielle Adsett attributes the significant uplift in productivity to the maturation of new plantings of IP varieties. Productivity gains are attributed to the strong focus from growers to transitioning their orchards to more highly-productive growing systems, that are more efficient and deliver higher yields.
“The new IP varieties deliver higher yields and attract stronger returns in global markets, however some of these orchards are still relatively young,” says Adsett.
“They need time in the ground before they reach full production, which suggests further growth and improved productivity is in the pipeline.”
The apple industry is enjoying exceptional fruit quality and high pack‑out rates this season.
‘Science reforms key’
such a crisis,” he says.
THE GOVERNMENT’S chief science advisor, Dr John Roche says the key objective for the science sector in the coming year is bedding down the reforms which sees the merger of the previous entities.
He told Rural News that another important priority is a need for more active science work to be done to deal with emergencies such as those that have occurred recently and during Cyclone Gabrielle.
Roche says these events have caused major damage and loss of life.
“The question is how can the science system be best prepared for such events by identifying risks and being able to give the best advice to people who have to make decisions in
Roche says another challenge for all scientists nowadays is communicating science in a meaningful and relevant way while retaining the key science message.
He says scientists can’t just talk to people about complex things by speaking jargon and expect them to pick it up as if they have a background in it as well.
“It’s a case of taking the time to explain the whys and, most importantly, why do we need to change, and explaining the consequences of not changing. This takes time, which is a precious commodity, but we have to make that time,” he says.
Roche says in his experience just countering a person’s position and saying they are wrong will
AHUWHENUA FINALISTS
NAMED
PETER BURKE
peterb@ruralnews.co.nz
TWO KIWIFRUIT orchards in the Bay of Plenty and one in Northland are this year’s finalists for the Ahuwhenua Trophy competition.
The three finalists are Mātai Pacific Iwi Collective based at Te Puke, Otama Marere Trust from Paengaroa just out of Te Puke and the Ngāti Hine Forestry Trust whose orchards based near Kerikeri.
The finalists will fight for the top Māori horticulture property title.
The finalists were announced last week by the Minister of Māori Development Tama Potaka at a special event at Parliament, attended by politicians, including agriculture Minister Todd McClay, diplomats, central and local government officials and industry leaders.
Matai Pacific are a collective of three iwi and have a total of 158ha. of kiwifruit spread over three orchards. They are Zespri’s largest single Māori shareholder with a combined asset value is over $130 million.
Otama Marere Trust’s operations include more than 21 hectares of kiwifruit, avocados and native plantings. Their land was originally leased to the local golf club before being developed by the trust in the 1980s. Today they have 11.87 hectares in Haywards, 2.21ha in Sungold G3 and 7.8ha in Sungold organics.
Ngati Hine, based at Kerikeri, has six kiwifruit orchards including 32 hectares of Zespri Sungold G3 under cover. All the orchards have lease and supply agreements with Seeka. Although the main assets of the trust are forestry, the kiwifruit orchards was a deliberate move to diversify their asset base.
Ahuwhenua Trophy management committee chair, Nukuhia Hadfield says the finalists represent a cohort of Māori growers who are playing an important role in horticulture – the fastest growing of all the primary export industries.
only entrench their view. Rather he says one must try to understand their view and engage with them.
“Arguing to prove something is wrong is not the way to get people to change their mind or behaviour. You have really got to engage with them
on what their belief is and have that conversation and that is a journey for any person. Change isn’t easy for anyone,” he says.
Roche says he was once challenged by a person who didn’t believe that NZ needed to reduce greenhouse gas emission when other countries
were the main culprits in this area. Roche says by talking through the issue with the individual and explaining that small GHG emitters collectively produce 35% of the world’s GHG emissions he could better see the need for NZ to reduce its emissions.
Chief science advisor, Dr John Roche says the key objective for the science sector in the coming year is bedding down the reforms.
Meat Board tariff savings soar to almost $1.4 billion
MEAT exports to key quota markets enjoyed $1.4 billion in tariff savings in the 202425 financial year.
Quota markets - the European Union, the United Kingdom and the US - take $4.2 billion of red meat exports, overseen by the New Zealand Meat Board.
The NZMB board meeting, held earlier this month, heard that the results, based on free on board (FOB) returns to the year ended 30 September 2025, represent a 35.5% increase for export values and a 59.2% increase in tariff savings compared to the same period in 2024.
The board now
manages 10 countryspecific tariff rate quotas.
These include New Zealand’s longstanding World Trade Organization (WTO) quotas, the United States and the more recently negotiated free trade agreement quotas covering beef, sheepmeat and goatmeat products to the European Union and the United Kingdom.
“As we look back
on the last year, it’s clear that the board continues to provide stability and confidence for the red meat sector in what remains a highly unpredictable global environment,” said
NZMB chair Kate Acland.
“Market volatility, shifting demand patterns and strong pricing in key export markets have again highlighted the importance of New Zealand’s high-quality market access and the robust systems that sit behind it.
“Exports of red meat to quota markets managed by the board represent a 46% share of New Zealand’s total red meat exports by value in
the seasonal year to 30 September, up 40% from 2024.”
In a year when market conditions in China have been weaker than previous years, this diversified access continues to underpin the resilience of the sector.
Acland says stronger use of lamb quotas and higher demand in New Zealand’s traditional markets largely offset the reduced demand in China.
She adds that demand for New Zealand beef in the US again reinforced the value of this longstanding quota market, along with strong interest developing in the UK and the EU markets
for New Zealand beef.
NZMB chief executive Nick Beeby said that throughout the year the board had also focused on strengthening systems and governance, including a detailed review of processes and system administration.
“Work is underway on a rebuild of the
Board’s legacy quota management system.
This will future proof the quota management function, replacing aging infrastructure with a more secure and modern digital platform,” says Beeby.
Quota utilisation had increased in the 2025 year to 31 December and has
FARMER RESERVES
THE NZMB also administers significant farmer reserves. As of 30 September 2025, its managed investment portfolio carried a market value of $98.6 million.
This includes a contingency fund of $69.8 million to help New Zealand re-enter export markets in the event of a biosecurity incursion or disruption in quota markets.
Interest from this fund is used, in consul-
RIGHT TOOL FOR THE JOB.
started strongly in 2026.
“This increasing utilisation shows the importance of New Zealand maintaining our current market access conditions in times of global trade volatility and the benefit that optionality of markets provides to our sector,” says Beeby.
tation with sheep and beef farmers, for industry-good projects.
During 2025, the Board provided $1.4 million for the Eliminating Facial Eczema Impacts (EFEI) programme.
This funding is helping EFEI drive major productivity gains behind the farm gate for thousands of sheep, beef and dairy farmers across the country.
Nick Beeby
EDITORIAL
A win-win for all
A BUMPER season all around.
That’s the sentiment coming from the major primary industry sectors.
Despite weathers woes in some parts of the country, grass is growing, prices remain strong and farmer sentiment is rising.
The rosy picture is painted right across the primary industry – red meat, dairy, kiwifruit, horticulture and even wool.
For dairy farmers, a $9.50/kgMS milk price is firming every Global Dairy Trade auction.
Dairy farmers are over the moon with the state of play. Some farmers in the Waikato are still making silage, and many are expected to continue milking way past their traditional drying off mark.
In the red meat sector, Federated Farmers meat and wool industry chair Richard Dawkins describes the sector finding itself in “a very rare set of circumstances”.
They are seeing strong returns across sheep, beef and even wool – a welcome change.
“Combined with easing interest rates, good feed conditions and a more supportive policy environment, it’s a very rare set of circumstances for the sector to be operating in,” he adds.
Across horticulture, the mood is also buoyant.
Kiwifruit yields are reaching record levels and forecast prices are expected to top last season in most categories.
The apple sector is reporting excellent quality, early pack-outs are tracking well and there’s a real sense of optimism across the industry.
Marked by exceptional fruit quality and high pack-out rates, this season is a welcome return to form for apple growers after several challenging years, that included Covid-19 disruptions and extreme weather events.
The wool sector is also moving out of the doldrums as the world wakes up to the disadvantages of carpets derived from petrochemicals, creating opportunities for New Zealand strong wool.
Strong wool prices are up 130% since 2022.
The positive sentiment right across the primary sector augurs well for New Zealand.
As primary export receipts rise, returns will trickle back not only to the farmgate but local communities.
That’s a win-win for everyone.
THE HOUND EDNA
‘Altered’
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EDITOR: Sudesh Kissun ......................................Ph 021-963 177 sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz
DARK SUITED spin doctors exist to, well, spin, and the nice cuddly progressive types at Greenpeace Aotearoa practice this dark art with the same cynicism as your average corporate giant. According to the NGO’s spin, they didn’t once again vandalise the Rakaia salmon statue in Canterbury, they “altered” it. Changing a single word, from vandalising to “altered” doesn’t sound like much but it’s all about minimising the crime by using softer language. Your old mate reckons it’s a bit like a thug saying they had a “disagreement” with someone, when really they ‘altered’ the shape of their nose and teeth.
Double standard
“Anything to keep those damned Greenies quiet!”
THE PROVERBIAL has really hit the fan in Wellington and exposed a glaring example of a double standard in environmental accountability. Your old mate can only imagine the uproar if a dairy farmer had pumped raw effluent into a local waterway, even by accident. They’d be crucified by the powers that be and the media for resource consent breaches, investigations would follow and criminal charges would be laid. Karl Dean, Federated Farmers dairy chair, is asking, will we see the same scrutiny of publicly managed infrastructure? Will the manager of the wastewater treatment plant be held personally responsible? Will Wellington’s mayor, councillors or chief executive be held accountable? And will enforcement action against the council be taken? Dean reckons it’s fair to assume the answer will probably be a resounding no.
EDITOR-AT-LARGE: Peter Burke ...........................Ph 021 224 2184 peterb@ruralnews.co.nz
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PRODUCTION MANAGER: Becky Williams ......................Ph 021 100 4381 beckyw@ruralnews.co.nz
New order
IF OLD Winston Peters thinks building trade relations with new nations, such as India, isn’t a necessary investment in our future, he has rocks in head. Our dependence on the US and China with the rapid changes in the world order is fast becoming a liability. Australia has already discovered what this means in practice. In October, Canberra signed an $8.5 billion minerals deal and the mining industry celebrated. The agreement included American guarantees of minimum prices, so that if China flooded the market with cheap supply, Australian mines would still be worth the investment. In the first week of Feb, those guarantees were quietly withdrawn. Australia played by the rules, signed a big deal and trusted that the relationship would hold. It now carries the risk on its own.
AUCKLAND SALES CONTACT: Stephen Pollard .........................Ph 021 963 166 stephenp@ruralnews.co.nz
WAIKATO & WELLINGTON SALES
CONTACT: Lisa Wise .................................. Ph 027 369 9218 lisaw@ruralnews.co.nz
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Penny pinching
A MATE of yours truly reckons rural Manawatu families are the latest to suffer under what he calls the Government’s “performative restraint” – penny pinching on needed community stuff while the bureaucrat head count and wasteful spending in Wellington charges on undiminished. He says the disruptions “have been as massive as the savings have been minimal”. He says, over the past year, the Ministry of Education has been reviewing school bus routes across the country, quietly tightening eligibility rules that determine who qualifies for statefunded transport. Students are increasingly required to attend their “nearest” school to qualify for a Ministry bus. Routes that once served rural communities feeding into a range of secondary schools are being cancelled, merged or redesigned. Hundreds of families have apparently been affected.
SOUTH ISLAND SALES CONTACT: Kaye Sutherland .......................Ph 021 221 1994 kayes@ruralnews.co.nz
DIGITAL STRATEGIST: Jessica Marshall ..............Ph 021 0232 6446
SHE’S A bit damp on the East Coast. Hughie can’t stop the rain, and the high temps in between weather events has got the flies on the front foot in the animal health stakes.
The sea is warm and the tuna are biting off the coast, if you can get a weather pattern flat enough to take the boat out. East Coast summers sure have changed. However, I suspect in the last month not a lot has changed in some kitchens around the question, ‘how do we transact the pathway to another generation?’
So, what can you do to advance the transition to retirement or at least introduce a new signature on the farm account?
Stock values should not be dismissed in any planning to pass the baton in a sheep and cattle operation. Two-point-five-year steers averaged over $3000 per head at the recent
Gisborne cattle fair, not for just one pen but for the whole offering of close to 1000 head. Cows are chasing $2000 per head minimum and sheep are also well into the $200’s each.
Helpful numbers if you are planning an exit from the farming operation. So, what are the options? Note: I write this purely from the view of the incumbent transitioning with no ‘gold spoon’ being passed to the next generation. Also, if you have left it until they are well in their 30’s, you are too late for them.
1. Equity partnership - Put some cash in the bank and let the budding farmer start gaining equity in stock early so they get on the ladder. It’s the beginning of a meaningful opportunity for them when doing the heavy lifting on the farm. It gives you a chance to invest off farm or buy the house you need to exit at the end. A weakness is you need to listen with your ears not your mouth when they want to change
the business model (from experience, not that easy…)
2. Lease the farm outright - Realise the value of all the stock and plan the next phase without having to sell the farm. There are so many ways they can raise the capital to buy stock these days with a mixture of loans, companies that lend against the stock and share farming opportunities in the early years. They will need to get out of bed in the morning and probably chase an external income to assist the early years. Be clear on improvements in the agreement though, as I have seen families pay for improvements twice if they end up buying the farm off you or their siblings.
3. Sell and move on - The cleanest way but the biggest decision. Make your decisions deliberately and plan the process with your trusted professionals. Make sure you present the place well and invest prudently to ensure the last years are comfortable
and enjoyable. Be open in your thinking and rest easy that the decision is signed with your warm hands. If you kick the bucket while battling on the job, it’s someone else’s warm hands (probably legal) signing the documents and nobody wants that. Now I reckon there are opportunities once off the farm that you haven’t even thought about. Reality is the stuffed knees and frozen shoulder will limit
the golf improvement no matter how many rounds you play. If you are not on the All Black coach shortlist you can still tour with them, which will continue. Closer to home, and if you can fluke some good weather, the tuna are biting off the coast. Not a fly blown sheep in sight.
• Fenton Wilson is a farmer and professional director who is proudly rural.
FENTON WILSON
Fenton Wilson
Time to invest beyond the farm gate?
For farmers focused on day-to-day operations, receiving a capital return or achieving strong profits can be a valuable opportunity to strengthen financial security. While reinvesting in the farm or reducing debt may seem like the obvious path, it’s worth taking a moment to consider other options on the table. Off-farm investments can offer a valuable way to diversify income, reduce exposure to agricultural risks, and build long-term financial resilience.
The case for off-farm investing
Diversify assets and income
Investing a portion of funds off-farm can help to diversify both opportunity and risk. Investment options like listed equities, bonds, and alternative assets can provide exposure to other sectors and importantly, other geographies that are not affected by the New Zealand economy, interest rates, legislation and weather. A Craigs investment adviser can provide tailored investment advice and guidance regarding the types of investments that are best suited to your specific needs, objectives and risk appetite.
Protect against inflation
One of the most compelling reasons to invest is to maintain the spending power of your savings and protect against inflation. Investing off-farm can help your capital keep pace with rising costs, preserving your ability to spend and invest in the future.
Liquidity and flexibility
Off-farm investments generally offer greater liquidity than farm assets, which can be difficult and time-consuming to sell. Listed shares, managed funds, and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) can typically be sold quickly, providing access to cash when needed. This flexibility can be especially valuable in times of uncertainty or when farm income is seasonal or volatile.
Low entry cost
Unlike large-scale farm investments that require significant capital, many offfarm investments have low barriers to entry. You can start with modest amounts in diversified portfolios. This accessibility allows for gradual investment over time, making it easier to build wealth without disrupting farm operations or cash flow.
Low maintenance
Off-farm investments don’t require feeding, fertilising or frequent maintenance. Once a portfolio is set up it can grow quietly in the background, with your investment adviser handling the day-to-day administration, reporting, and compliance. This means you can focus on what matters most – your farm and your family.
Build
Off-farm investments can create a reliable income stream to support your lifestyle after stepping back from day-to-day farm operations. This can provide greater financial independence in retirement, allowing the next generation to take over the farm with less financial pressure.
Help facilitate succession planning
Investments can support succession planning by creating financial flexibility. Off-farm assets can be used to provide for children or relatives who aren’t part of the farming business, helping to ensure fairness and avoid conflict during asset division.
The Craigs way
At Craigs Investment Partners, we’ve been helping Kiwis navigate the investment landscape for over 40 years. We have ‘boots on the ground,’ with a network of advisers in over 20 locations across the country, experienced in providing investment guidance and advice to rural clients.
Our advisers can play an important part of your off-farm support team, ready to help with investment decisions and tailored advice, or to connect you with the right people in our network of financial professionals.
Our team of advisers is backed by: Expert investment research, and In-depth analysis of macroeconomic trends, markets, sectors, and companies.
Craigs is 50% owned by current and former employees and directors, which makes our commitment to delivering superior service personal. Our clients are at the heart of everything we do - and that’s what makes us different.
Let’s talk
To discuss investment options and plan for your future beyond the farm, contact a Craigs Investment Partners adviser near you. We’re here to help.
Speak with us today. 0800 272 442
Saluting ‘the man in the arena’
AS I was putting the final touches on my column for last month, the hottest ‘breaking news’ was the Scott Robertson story from New Zealand Rugby.
Many were more than a little surprised when the story broke; shocked or stunned may be a more accurate choice of adjectives!
Over the weeks since then, I have read quite a few articles and comments, both nationally and from international sources. Everything from the usual arm-chair experts and keyboard warriors to the more informed and non-partisan writers.
Some, while having avoided comments on the rights or wrongs of what happened, have been far from happy with how it was done.
As I have thought about this drama, a very famous quote came to mind and has remained with me over these passing weeks. This quote has been pinned up on boardroom walls, office walls, study walls, noticeboards, doors, fridges and the like for decades. Most likely, many top sports people will have come across it somewhere too.
It dates way back to 1910, so that makes it
more than a century of pin-ups!
From the 26th US President Theodore Roosevelt, here it is: The Man In The Arena:
‘It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better.
The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the
end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory or defeat.’
A classic for sure, and I have no doubt it will continue to be!
For two years Robertson has been in what often gets termed the hot seat. Or in this case, he’s been “the man in the arena”. Without hesitation, I salute him for that.
In my journey to date, I have noted that many critics, and now keyboard warriors, never seem to get in any arena themselves. Yet, sadly, having messed up their own lives, they now want to critique me on how to live mine.
I grew up knowing about the need to choose my friends carefully. And of course, that’s great and wise counsel. Show me your friends and I could give you a pretty accurate print-out of your future. I can’t speak for you, but for me, I know for sure which side I want my friends to come from! The men and women in the arena will be my first choice every time.
Life’s experiences will present us all with unplanned and unscheduled storms from time to time. We then get to eyeball a choice. Will I allow this to cancel me out and make me bitter or will I grow through this and let it shape me into being better. Yep, it’s the difference of one tiny letter - bitter or better.
I’m sincerely hoping Razor chooses the e and
not the i. Without any doubt, the greatest “man in the arena” was unjustly crucified over 2000 years ago!
Miti bags Aussie innovation award
As his main prize, Carson receives a A$3,000 travel bursary to assist ongoing professional development in a chosen field.
Carson told Rural News that winning the Innovator Award matters “because it signals that dairy farmers are ready to support structural thinking, not just small tweaks around the edges”.
“It opens doors. It accelerates conversations. It builds trust that this is bigger than a snack brand, it’s a systems solution.”
In New Zealand, Miti works with farmers to raise bobby calves to 12 months old then use their meat in Miti snack bars. The dairy sector has been under scrutiny for treatment of bobby calves. Fonterra farmers are now required to ensure that bobby calves should be raised for beef, slaughtered for calfveal, or for the pet food market.
Carson points out that Australia has a similar structural challenge but on a smaller scale than
New Zealand.
“The scale is different but there are still significant numbers of surplus dairy-origin calves, around 400,000 each year that don’t have high-value pathways.”
Carson says the bobby calves issue isn’t a farmer problem, but “a system design problem”.
“For decades, processing plants, carcass specs and boxed-beef programs were built for a certain animal, in a certain era.
“Dairy came along offering lean protein for manufacturing, but infrastructure didn’t evolve with it. That’s the gap we’re focused on.
“Right now, our involvement in Australia is growing through a Tasmania pilot. The goal is simple: work with dairy systems, not against them.
“Finish animals younger and efficiently, design processing around lighter carcasses, use the whole animal, and turn that into lean, nutrientdense protein for modern food manufacturers.”
MORE COLLABORATION
DANIEL CARSON’S message to Australian and New Zealand dairy farmers is not to change your farming practices but collaborate more with the beef sector.
“You already produce something incredibly valuable,” he told Rural News.
“The opportunity isn’t to change what you do, it’s to build the infrastructure, and sales channels that finally value it properly.
“When beef and dairy collaborate intentionally, we unlock new revenue streams, better welfare outcomes, and lower-carbon protein, without adding friction at farm level.
“That’s what excites me most.”
Miti founder Daniel Carson received the Australian Dairy Conference Innovator Award in Melbourne this month.
Modern cultivars, reliable results
MODERN
PROPRIETARY cultivars
backed by independent data are the strong preference for Waikato dairy farmer Mike McGehan when he needs reliable and targeted pasture performance.
McGehan farms 135ha in the Scotsman Valley and runs a crossbred herd of 400 cows, fitted with collars, on a System 3-4 operation.
The herd is on track to achieve record production of around 185,000 kgMS for the season after he dropped beef genetics in favour of short-gestation semen at mating. The move significantly tightened the herd’s calving spread to 92% of the cows calving in the first six weeks.
For his re-grassing programme, he looks closely at the National Forage Variety Trials (NFVT) data and also considers feedback from his network before choosing specific cultivars that will deliver the high-quality feed he needs at critical times in the season, to maintain cow condition and production.
A large area of the farm previously had whey spread on it which boosted soil fertility to very high levels.
“Our strategy is to pull some of the levels down because they can be a challenge, particularly potassium levels on the effluent
blocks,” he says.
The original effluent block is being continually cropped, followed by an annual grass to lower its fertility to more sensible levels.
“We’re trying to get 30 tonnes/ha average of forage off those paddocks but this can be a challenge because we are direct drilling maize to preserve the soil structure, because it’s also the main area for our springer cows,” he says.
“In total, we’re doing around 20-22ha of summer crop each year and I’m probably undersowing another 20-30ha on the dairy platform.”
By selecting proprietary cultivars off the NFVT list for his region, he can consider which ryegrass options best suit individual paddocks, depending on a range of criteria, including soil type, contour, drainage, and aspect.
“Because we’re now calving over a much shorter period of time, we’re starting to use more of the early-heading ryegrass varieties, and there are some good ones out there at the moment,” he says.
Another example of dialling in cultivars is a leased block of rolling clay country at the rear of the farm which is exposed to the westerly wind and prone to drying out.
“Down there, we’ve been using a fescue hybrid that seems hardier and drought tolerant.”
One area of the farm can flood after heavy rain, so Mike adopts a specific strategy for any regrassing where he is prepared to use lowervalue seed options.
“I’ve experimented with different options on the area that can get wet in a big rain event, but I definitely wouldn’t use low-cost seed in other areas where I expect it to be in grass for a long time.”
He admits that having his own drill means he is more inclined to try different options in the same paddock to see what works best.
“I’m still targeting a kind of grass that I want for that particular paddock so we are able to utilise it best at the time of year it’s required.”
Once a cultivar decision is made, timing of sowing is critical to maximising pasture growth and future milk production. He always aims to get at least one grazing in before winter.
Gaps in pasture supply are filled with bought-in feed and a combination of maize and summer turnips grown on the property.
“Apart from pasture, we’re also typically feeding between 500-800 kg/cow of meal blend, which is mostly palm
kernel, and we grow around 250-300 tonnes of maize silage each year on the farm,” he says.
He uses farm maps to keep track of his drilling plan through the seasons, so he knows what is sown in each paddock in his re-grassing or cropping programme.
“The hard part is, when the companies are bringing new grasses out every few years, I have to try them all out!”
To access the latest National Forage Variety Trial results for any region, visit the PBRA website.
Waikato dairy farmer Mike McGehan looks closely at the National Forage Variety Trials (NFVT) data for his re-grassing programme.
Rain brings pests, diseases
RECENT RAINFALL
has made for a fantastic growing season in many regions, but farmers are also reporting a proliferation in pests and diseases such as facial eczema, flystrike, porina and internal parasites.
According to Beef + Lamb NZ, anecdotal reports from around the country suggest that while many farmers are enjoying good pasture growth, they are also having to deal with some moisture-related animal health and pasture pest issues.
B+LNZ says it has a number of resources to help support farmer decision-making on its Knowledge Hub, while
assistant BELLA can give farmers information on a specific topic in seconds.
Flystrike
Moisture is a critical factor in flystrike, as for eggs to hatch and larvae to establish, they need at least 24 hours of moist conditions in the fleece.
The focus of any flystrike prevention programme is to make the sheep as unattractive as possible to the four problem blowfly species (Australian green blowfly, European green blowfly, Brown blowfly and hairy maggot blowfly).
An Integrated Pest Management Approach aims to keep pressure
all stages of its lifecycle and uses both chemical and non-chemical tools.
Facial eczema
Warm summer temperatures and high humidity create the perfect conditions for facial eczema.
B+LNZ encourages farmers in high-risk regions to undertake weekly monitoring, and when spore counts start to rise, put management strategies in place to prevent stock being affected by this production-limiting disease.
These strategies could include avoiding hard grazing, feeding “clean” forage crops such as chicory or plantain, dosing
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The warm moist conditions are favouring the survival of porina moths and caterpillars. Moths fly in spring, summer, and early autumn, living only a few days without feeding.
Female moths lay over 3000 eggs scattered above pasture surfaces and eggs hatch in 10-21 days, with young caterpillars constructing silk-lined casings on the
As they grow, they build permanent burrows reaching about 250mm deep, emerging at night to sever grass and clover leaves at the base of the plant. In sufficient numbers, porina caterpillars can cause significant pasture damage.
Internal parasites
Autumn creates optimal conditions for parasite development with warm, wet weather favouring worm larvae on pasture. Faecal egg counts typically reach highest levels in autumn as worm burdens peak in sheep.
Farmers are having to deal with some moisturerelated animal health and pasture pest issues.
Pottinger celebrates 25 years of sowing technology
MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz
AUSTRIAN MANUFACTURER
Pöttinger previously focused on grassland equipment then entered the arable sector with its acquisition of “Bayerische Pflugfabrik Landsberg”the Bavarian plough factory - in 1975.
2026 marks the silver, or 25th anniversary of entering the seeding sector in 2001, when the company bought the Rabe seed drill plant in Bernburg, Germany.
Since then, Pöttinger has continuously expanded its range of seed drills, with the likes of the mechanical VITASEM, pneumatic AEROSEM, and the universal TERRASEM Series, offering farming businesses new capabilities in precision sowing combined with optimum seedbed preparation.
Back in 2003, Pöttinger presented the TERRASEM at Agritechnica in
Hanover, setting new standards with the mulch seed drill, followed in 2009 by the updated VITASEM mechanical seed drill, offering more precise metering. In 2012, the company launched a direct fertilisation system on the TERRASEM seed drill, allowing nutrients to be placed optimally, adjacent to the seed.
The AEROSEM seed drill won the “Machine of the Year” award in 2013, featuring the patented Intelligent Distribution System (IDS) which offered extremely precise seed distribution, while Precision Combi Seeding (PCS) integrated precision seeding technology into pneumatic seed drills.
Between 2019 and 2021, new features were added to the AEROSEM series, including the AEROSEM F, with a front hopper that promoted maximum output thanks to its pressurised hopper system. In addition, AEROSEM VT joined the
line-up, with a compact, trailed seed drill combination, designed to help conserve the soil profile. During 2022, the arrival of new AMICO front hopper offered a choice of distribution systems for soil engaging implements,
providing the optimum combination of tillage, fertiliser placement and sowing.
2022 also saw the takeover of Italian company MaterMacc, heralding its entry into precision planter market.
two companies’ first joint development.
Welcome to the family
Väderstad Announces New Partnership with Power Farming in New Zealand.
Väderstad, a global leader in high-performance seeding, planting, and tillage equipment, is proud to announce a new chapter in its New Zealand journey. After more than 25 years of representation by Norwood, Väderstad will transition to Power Farming in New Zealand, commencing 1st March 2026.
“At Väderstad, our customers are at the heart of everything we do. This partnership with Power Farming ensures that farmers in New Zealand will continue to receive the highest levels of support and aftersales service. Power Farming’s strong network and customer-first approach align perfectly with our values and commitment to helping farmers succeed.” Mattias Hovnert, Senior Vice President Global Sales & Marketing, Väderstad. Väderstad extends thanks to Norwood, whose professionalism and commitment has built a strong reputation for the brand in New Zealand.
The Väderstad partnership is a strong signal of our growth and confidence in the future. We look forward to working with the team at Väderstad and the New Zealand customer base.
Tom Ruddenklau, Chief Executive, Power Farming New Zealand
Since the takeover, Pöttinger has successfully developed its San Vito location into a centre of excellence for precision planters, with the PURO precision planter, the result of the
Pottinger Bemburg factory in Germany.
18 MACHINERY & PRODUCTS
Kioti explores robotics
KOREAN COMPANY
Kioti reports that its European division and French company Naïo Technologies have formed a strategic partnership to develop a
will cooperate in areas, including the industrialisation of robotic agricultural solutions, cost optimisation, and commercial development across European and international markets.
Kioti previewed an
November’s Agritechnica, with the first robotic result from the new partnership expected to be unveiled towards the end of 2026.
Douglas Kang, CEO of Kioti Europe, says the strategic partnership marks a significant step
innovative robotics to farmers.
“By combining our industrial expertise and global reach with Naïo’s cutting-edge robotic technology, we aim to accelerate the development and deployment of next-
efficient and accessible,” he says.
Founded in near Toulouse, France, in 2011, Naïo reckons to have already deployed over 350 of its Ted, Jo, Oz and Orio autonomous robots across five continents.
Naio general manager, Matthias
Carrière, comments, “the collaboration represents a major milestone for our company, enabling us to accelerate the industrialisation of our technologies and significantly expand our reach, both here in France and internationally.”
SNIPPETS CHANGES AHEAD
CB NORWOOD Distributors Limited has announced the exclusive distribution and retail agreement between Norwood and Väderstad will end from 1 March 2026. Norwood will continue to sell Väderstad for a further 12-months.
“The year-long transition period is a sign that together we want customers to feel confident that they and their machines will be looked after,” says John Skurr, general manager.
Customers with machinery under warranty will continue to be supported through Norwood dealerships until the 21st of January 2027. Routine non-warranty service work can still be done by local Norwood dealerships after this date.
ISUZU RETAINS HCV CROWN
ISUZU NEW Zealand has maintained its position as the overall market leader in the Heavy Commercial Vehicle (HCV) segment over 3500kg GVM in 2025, while also finishing the year as NZ’s leading truck brand in the light-duty and medium-duty segments, with the N and F Series respectively. Both series meet Euro VI and equivalent Japanese emission standards, while also including an increased level of safety features and Advanced Driver Assistance systems.
SHANGHAI TECH CENTRE
ITALIAN COMPANY Same Deutz Fahr (SDF) has established a new Competence Centre for research and development in China, focusing on electric platforms. Based in Shanghai, the new centre has been established with the aim of enhancing local expertise in one of the main industrial areas dedicated to technological and electrical innovation, integrating it with the expertise already established within SDF. The centre will work closely with the group’s other R&D centres, contributing to the development of innovative, sustainable focused on the needs of international markets, with the aim of supporting SDF’s long-term competitiveness.
NO. 1 FULL-SIZE TRUCK
While the other American brand, RAM, is leading the New Zealand market, the Chevrolet Silverado has claimed the number one position for full size tucks in Australia in 2025. Silverado 1500 LD and 2500 HD models achieved a combined 44.1% share, representing a 7.7% increase in market share year-on-year, up from its 36.4% result in 2024.
“We’ve seen growing numbers of buyers moving into the full-size truck segment, telling us they want vehicles that can comfortably tow large caravans and boats, haul serious loads and still deliver the refinement and technology they expect from a modern premium truck. Silverado ticks all those boxes,” said Jess Bala, managing director, GM Australia & New Zealand.
A Kioti Robot at Agritechnica.
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