Agri Experts Give Their Views on 2050
Despite near universal optimism in the rural sector, a panel of New Zealand’s leading food and agri minds caution that the sector must be intentional about its future path.
MARCH ESTIMATES for New Zealand milk flows are for a double-digit percentage increase over the prior year when the drought had taken a firm grip, says Rabobank.
For the season, milk flow continues at about 6% ahead of the prior season to date despite dry conditions emerging in some regions, the bank says in its Agribusiness Monthly for Australia and New Zealand.
Globally milk supply from the main exporting nations also continues to pick up pace, says Rabobank.
"Producers in most regions are beginning to see the benefit of improved farmgate milk prices, lower purchased feed costs and mostly good climate conditions," the report says.
"Attention over the next few months will be on the strength of the Northern Hemisphere seasonal peak as it will play a key determinant in the market balance.
"Right now the global dairy commodity market remains firm and in many regions inventory levels are tight. The market continues to remain well supported by ongoing strong Chinese purchasing."
Rabobank says in New Zealand the added incentive for higher production came Fonterra increased the forecast 2013/14 milk price by NZ 35c/kgMS to $8.65/kgMS.
"Processors will now be looking to the end of season and the need to balance ongoing customer requirements through June and July when milk flows largely cease," it says.
Australian milk production is up 3.1% in the season to date, with improving seasonal conditions allowing producers to begin to make up the lost ground through the first half of the season.
Horticulture New Zealand’s Board has welcomed the re-election of grower-elected directors Alistair Petrie and Doug Brown.
The bright ideas of New Zealand's primary sector have been celebrated with an announcement of the winners of the 2026 Innovation Awards.
Newly appointed Federated Farmers vice president Sandra Faulkner says she is honoured and excited to hold the role.
New Zealand's top fencers were out in force at National Fieldays this month, demonstrating their skills with the ever-reliable number 8 wire.
New Federated Farmers president Colin Hurst says he will ensure that farmer voices are heard loud and clear wherever decisions are being made.
Paynes Titus Excelsior ET, an LIC bull bred by Brad Payne and Claire Brodie in the Waikato, has won the JT Thwaites Sire of the Season 2026 Award.
OPINION: No one messes around with Winston Peters, more so in a general election year.
OPINION: Staying on Federated Farmers, this week's annual general meeting in Auckland is shaping up to be an interesting one.