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Marise James.
Former Fonterra director Marise James says the future of the dairy industry depends upon the direction of travel with respect to climate change.
"Farming has always been the backbone of the New Zealand economy, seeing us through really tough times and creating a place in the world that recognises the value of high-quality food, fibre and health production.
"However, I fear that the industry's ability to continue to deliver in that space is being compromised by poorly thought-through strategic responses to climate change that will result in many of our farming enterprises being unable to continue.
"We only need to look at the stance that banks are taking regarding funding fuel stations to realise that the flow-on effect could be catastrophic for farmers, either directly or indirectly."
She's reluctant to comment on Fonterra's plans to offload its consumer business in NZ, Australia and Sri Lanka.
"I am not close enough to it anymore to know much detail. I have always believed that Fonterra's strength was to be a 'preferred ingredients supplier' to the big brands.
"Having said that, there are a few long-serving brands that have served the business well over many decades and I am nervous to think we might let them go. Brands like Anmum, etc are synonymous with the New Zealand dairy industry."
James says winning the New Zealand Sharemilker of the Year competition with her husband in 1994 was a highlight. Being awarded a Nuffield Scholarship in 1998 is also right up there, she adds.
"But the biggest highlight has been meeting so many amazing people, who have become very special friends through being clients and/or colleagues through the years.
"Farming is one of the few industries I know where people are so willing to share knowledge and experience to help others. It has been amazing."
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