'Living labs' to tackle emissions
Living labs that bring together expertise at locations around New Zealand are among potential solutions identified by researchers to help the country move towards a more climate resilient future.
A project that aims to develop dairy wellness products as well as build Maori agribusiness capability is to receive government funding through the Primary Growth Partnership.
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has approved co-funding of $1.75 million for the three-year Whai Hua PGP programme, which is worth $3.5 million in total.
The Whai Hua programme will develop natural probiotic dairy milk products targeting health-conscious consumers in Asian and New Zealand markets.
The Whai Hua partners are leading agribusiness Wairarapa Moana Inc, which runs 10,000ha of dairy and forestry operations in central North Island, and Miraka Ltd, the first Maori-owned dairy processing company, based in Taupo.
It will operate in collaboration with in-market partners which ensures a connection with consumers.
The research partner is AgResearch. "This programme exemplifies what the PGP is all about – innovation to the fore and increasing profitability – in this case of dairy farming and processing," says Scott Gallacher, MPI deputy director-general.
Whai Hua chairman Kingi Smiler says he is pleased with the announcement and the significant benefits that this programme will bring to both organisations and the country.
The Whai Hua programme expects to generate $8.6 million a year in economic benefits to New Zealand by 2021.
It will also enhance the experience and skill base of Maori agribusinesses investing in higher valued foods and differentiated products for Asian markets.
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has welcomed a resolution adopted by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly to declare 2026 International Year of the Woman Farmer.
Waikato herd health veterinarian Katrina Roberts is the 2024 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year.
Trade Minister Todd McClay says New Zealand has no intention of backing down in a trade dispute with Canada over dairy products.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.
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