Strong uptake of good wintering practices
DairyNZ has seen a significant increase in the number of farmers improving their wintering practices, which results in a higher standard of animal care and environmental protection.
DairyNZ regional leader in Bay of Plenty Andrew Reid is moving on to a new role.
He takes over as Vetora Bay of Plenty veterinary club's new chief executive in August.
Reid says helping farmers look after the health and well-being of their animals is more important than ever.
"Animals are at the heart of New Zealand food production. But how we care for them is coming under the spotlight more than ever," he says.
"One of our biggest challenges is making sure we continue to be global leaders in animal care, and tell our story to non-farming communities and to our customers around the world. Maintaining our license to operate depends on it."
Reid believes vets play a key role in the success of New Zealand's agricultural industry, and not just in terms of animal health and productivity.
"Vets are regarded by the farming community as trusted advisors and partners. The nature of their work means many go above and beyond to support their farming clients in ways that are not always recognised. You can't put a price on the value that delivers to farmers and their businesses."
Attracting and retaining both large and companion animal vets has been an ongoing issue for the industry, but one Reid believes presents an opportunity for Vetora BOP. "Vetora BOP has a legacy of caring for animals, families and farmers that dates back more than 75 years. At its heart are sound values focussing on community and people," Reid says.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says the relationship between New Zealand and the US will remain strong and enduring irrespective of changing administrations.
More than 200 people turned out on Thursday, November 21 to see what progress has been made on one of NZ's biggest and most comprehensive agriculture research programmes on regenerative agriculture.
The a2 Milk Company (a2MC) says securing more China label registrations and developing its own nutritional manufacturing capability are high on its agenda.
Stellar speakers, top-notch trade sites, innovation, technology and connections are all on offer at the 2025 East Coast Farming Expo being once again hosted in Wairoa in February.
As a guest of the Italian Trade Association, Rural News Group Machinery Editor Mark Daniel took the opportunity to make an early November dash to Bologna to the 46th EIMA exhibition.
Livestock can be bred for lower methane emissions while also improving productivity at a rate greater than what the industry is currently achieving, research has shown.
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OPINION: The Listener's latest piece on winter grazing among Southland dairy farmers leaves much to be desired.