EPA chief executive to step down
Allan Freeth, chief executive of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has announced he is resigning.
Nominations are now open for the Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) board.
Following the retirement of Barry O’Neil and Hugh Ritchie and the decision by Kathryn de Bruin to step down, three director positions are available this year.
HortNZ chair Bernadine Guilleux says horticulture is a crucial industry for New Zealand, adding that director elections give growers a say in the direction of the industry good body.
“We’re encouraging growers to think about the candidates who will best reflect the diversity of the sector – from different crops and regions to varied backgrounds and perspectives,” Guilleux says.
“We’re looking for strong, skilled leaders who understand the pressures growers face and are passionate about shaping a positive future,” she adds.
“We need a board that brings a mix of experience and insight to the table – including skills in finance, biosecurity and risk management, science and innovation, Te Ao Māori, and governance.”
To be eligible, candidates must be active growers, or a director, shareholder, trustee or employee of an active grower.
Nominations close Monday 9 June. For more information, visit www.hortnz.co.nz
Following a recent director election, Canterbury farmer Sean Molloy has been appointed to the New Zealand Pork Industry Board.
Red meat farmers and processors are welcoming a US Government announcement - removing its reciprocal tariffs on a range of food products, including New Zealand beef.
OPINION: As negotiations advance on the India-New Zealand FTA, it’s important to remember the joint commitment made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at the beginning of this process in March: for a balanced, ambitious, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial agreement.
Minister for Universities, Shane Reti, has opened the final new build in a ten plus year project to upgrade the veterinary facilities at Massey University.
As New Zealand experiences more frequent and severe flooding events, the Insurance & Financial Services Ombudsman Scheme (IFSO Scheme) is urging consumers to be honest and accurate when making insurance claims for flood damage.
A recently held arable field day in the Manawatu brought with it a timely reminder to be on the lookout for velvetleaf incursions.

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