Ah Tatua, You've Done It Again!
Waikato milk processor Tatua has again declared a record milk payout to farmer shareholders, leaving other processors in the dust.
Former Westland Milk boss Richard Wyeth is taking over as chief executive of Canterbury milk processor Synlait from May 19.
Wyeth, a seasoned dairy industry leader, stepped down from Westland last month.
He takes as Synlait from acting chief executive Tim Carter, who will return to his role as chief executive of Dairyworks, a Synlait subsidiary.
Synlait chair George Adams says Wyeth is a seasoned, tested, and highly regarded CEO in New Zealand's dairy industry. “Synlait is extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to benefit from Richard's extensive experience growing companies in our sector. He has positively transformed dairy companies, and we are excited he is joining Synlait.”
Wyeth will be well known to many in the dairy community having previously been CEO of both Westland Milk Products and Taupo-based dairy company Miraka. He also helped establish Open Country Dairy and held management positions with Coca-Cola Amatil and DB Breweries prior to this.
Wyeth says Synlait's fundamentals are strong.
“The fact it’s now on track to return to profitability, after overcoming a list of challenges, reflects exceptional capability within the team. I'm looking forward to getting to know Synlait's farmers and staff to build on, and support, the turnaround story, which is already underway."
Adams thanked Carter for his stint as acting chief executive.
“Momentum is building within Synlait. Tim has played an instrumental role in driving this step change in the company’s performance and ensuring we are on track to return to profitability at half year.”
Fonterra shareholders can begin voting on Tuesday 20 October in the 2026 Board of Directors’ election, a Co-operative Council election in one Ward, and seven Annual Meeting resolutions.
National’s pledge to introduce 19 new national standards shows the party is serious about getting Wellington out of farming, Federated Farmers says.
The National Party’s policies to make it easier to grow fresh vegetables, secure reliable water and energy and simplify farm planning are practical changes that will give growers the confidence to invest, according to Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ).
Fonterra Co-operative Group chief financial officer Andrew Murray has resigned to take up a role outside the dairy giant.
A major move is about to get underway to improve the quality and viability of dairy beef and cattle in NZ.
Veterinarians say changes to the code of welfare for dairy cattle provides a positive foundation for improved cattle welfare across the country.
OPINION: It seems Canterbury processor Synlait is still in the doldrums.
OPINION: Get offside with New Zealand First leader Winston Peters at your own peril.