Vegetable growing at risk
Horticulture New Zealand says the country’s ability to provide fresh, healthy vegetables is at risk unless the Government makes growing them a permitted activity.
Being able to grow more vegetables could be one way to bring prices down, according to Vegetables New Zealand Incorporated (VNZI).
It also believes this would lead to improved health outcomes for New Zealanders and support an industry that is vital to the country.
“There’s massive support, particularly in the health and education sectors, for taking steps to make healthy fresh New Zealand vegetables more available to Kiwis,” says VNZI chair, John Murphy.
He adds that the New Zealand vegetable industry needs fit for purpose regulations that allow vegetable operations to thrive, by encouraging investment in vegetable production and eliminating hurdles that limit productivity.
“Ultimately, any effort to make it easier for Kiwis to eat more locally grown vegetables is good for New Zealand society.”
Murphy also claims the debate about removing GST from food has been welcomed by the vegetable sector.
“VNZI applauds any attempt by regulators to increase fresh vegetable consumption and make it easier for growers to be viable because of the health benefits,” he explains.
“If changing tax settings would decrease the cost that consumers and growers face, then we should look seriously at a change.”
The Ashburton-based Carrfields Group continues to show commitment to future growth and in the agricultural sector with its latest investment, the recently acquired 'Spring Farm' adjacent to State Highway 1, Winslow, just south of Ashburton.
New Zealand First leader and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters has blasted Fonterra farmers shareholders for approving the sale of iconic brands to a French company.
A major feature of the Ashburton A&P Show, to be held on October 31 and November 1, will be the annual trans-Tasman Sheep Dog Trial test match, with the best heading dogs from both sides of the Tasman going head-to-head in two teams of four.
Fewer bobby calves are heading to the works this season, as more dairy farmers recognise the value of rearing calves for beef.
The key to a dairy system that generates high profit with a low emissions intensity is using low footprint feed, says Fonterra program manager on-farm excellence, Louise Cook.
Rural retailer Farmlands has reported a return to profitability, something the co-operative says shows clear progress in the second year of its five-year strategy.

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