Fonterra Begins CEO Search Following Miles Hurrell Resignation
Fonterra chief executive Miles Hurrell has resigned after eight years in the role.
Fonterra shareholders are gathering in Hamilton today for a special meeting to decide the future composition of the co-op's board.
The Fonterra board is recommending a reduced board of 11- comprising seven farmer-elected directors and four independent directors.
For the change to come into effect, at least 75% of the votes cast must support it.
Fonterra directors and management have been holding meetings with shareholders to garner support.
Two former board members, Colin Armer and Greg Gent, are opposing the changes, saying they don't go far enough. They have been pushing for a smaller board. Fonterra currently has a 13-member board, comprising nine farmer directors and four independents.
The meeting kicks off at 10.30am, with speeches by chairman John Wilson, chief executive Theo Spierings and Shareholders Council chairman Duncan Coull.
Voting results are expected after midday.
Stay tuned to Rural News Group online for the latest from the special meeting.
Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) has released its 2026 election manifesto, outlining priorities to support the sector’s growth, resilience, and contribution to New Zealand’s food security and export revenue.
Farmers have voted to continue the Milksolids Levy that funds DairyNZ.
Fonterra chief executive Miles Hurrell has resigned after eight years in the role.
Matt McRae, a farmer from Mokoreta in Southland who runs a sheep, beef and dairy support business alongside a sheep stud, has been elected to the Beef +Lamb NZ Board as a farmer director.
Ravensdown's next evolution in smart farming technology, HawkEye Pro, was awarded the Technology Section Award at the Southern Field Days Farm Innovation Awards in February 2026.
While mariners may recognise a “dog watch” as a two-hour shift on a ship, the Good Dog Work Watch is quite a different concept and the clever creation of Southland siblings Grace (9) and Archer Brown (7), both pupils at Riverton Primary School.
OPINION: Expect the Indian free trade deal to feature strongly in the election campaign.
OPINION: One of the world's largest ice cream makers, Nestlé, is going cold on the viability of making the dessert.