NZ tomato growers face rising energy costs
Tomato growers are facing a challenge like never before over the rising cost of energy and the uncertainty of supply.
Allan Freeth, chief executive of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has announced he is resigning.
Freeth has informed the EPA’s board that he intends to step down from the role on 30 June 2026.
Barry O’Neil, EPA chair, says the timing coincides with the end of the financial year.
Freeth will have served as chief executive of the EPA for over 10 years.
"Allan has led the EPA with vision and energy and has been instrumental in growing the EPA from its early phase as a developing regulator to one now respected by the environmental sector,” O’Neil says.
He says Freeth led the EPA through the coronavirus and has overseen the expansion of the EPA’s remit, including the recent establishment of the fast-track function.
"The board would like to thank Allan for his significant contribution to the EPA to date and wishes him all the very best for his future endeavours."
The board will begin the process for identifying a new chief executive shortly, with a view to confirming a replacement prior to Freeth’s departure.
Westpac NZ has announced new initiatives that aim to give customers more options to do their banking in person.
New Zealand red meat exports experienced a 29% increase year-on-year in September, according to the Meat Industry Association (MIA).
The head of the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) biosecurity operation, Stuart Anderson, has defended the cost and the need for a Plant Healht and Environment Laboratory (PHEL) being built in Auckland.
BNZ says its new initiative, helping make the first step to farm ownership or sharemilking a little easier, is being well received by customers and rural professionals.
The head of Fonterra's R&D facility in Palmerston North is set to literally cross the road and become the new vice chancellor at Massey University.
Allan Freeth, chief executive of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has announced he is resigning.

OPINION: The Greens have taken the high moral ground on the Palestine issue and been leading political agitators in related…
One of the most galling aspects of the tariffs whacked on our farm exports to the US is the fact…