Dairy unity
OPINION: A last-minute compromise ensured that the election of the new Federated Farmers national dairy chair wasn't a repeat of the Super 15 rugby final - Canterbury versus Waikato.
The apiculture industry has voted by a substantial majority to proceed with unification and their associations at the New Zealand Apiculture Conference.
Federated Farmers Bees, Honey Packers and Exporters Association and National Beekeepers Association all participated in the vote held at in Taupo on June 25.
“The three associations have all endorsed the proposal to unify the industry and work towards strengthening and growing New Zealand’s apiculture industry,” says John Hartnell, Federated Farmers bee chairperson.
“Many in the industry have been proposing this outcome for a number of years and I’m really excited about where this decision will lead us as we progress towards a strong and progressive single unified industry body.”
“The greater majority across all stakeholders are supportive because it’s the wish of the industry and it’s the common sense way forward.”
Hartnell says it has not been easy getting to this point, but at the end of the day, the industry is maturing as it grows. The industry is far bigger than it was 10 years ago, so it is vital to engage with all stakeholders as it moves into the future.
“It’s about working together to ensure the integrity of our products and services are maintained at all times and delivering a robust industry model which will meet the challenges we will face over the next decade and beyond.”
“The bee industry has a lot more to offer New Zealand than its estimated annual contribution of $5billion per annum. With a unified body the opportunities and doors will open, which is fantastic for all stakeholders in the apiculture industry in New Zealand.” Hartnell concludes.
Questions are being raised about just how good the state of the dairy industry is - especially given that the average farmgate payout for the coming season is set to exceed $10/kgMS.
A leading financial and banking advisor says he doubts if most dairy farmers fully understand the dynamics of banking.
Dairy farmers are shoring up their balance sheets, with almost $1.7 billion of debt repaid in the six months to March 2025.
Virtual fencing company Halter is going global but for founder Craig Piggott, New Zealand farmers will always remain their main partners.
A former Fonterra executive is the new chair of the Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand (DCANZ).
New Federated Farmers national dairy chair Karl Dean is looking forward to tackling the issues facing the sector.
OPINION: Dust ups between rural media and PR types aren't unheard of but also aren't common, given part of the…
OPINION: The Hound hears from his canine pals in Southland that an individual's derogatory remarks on social media have left…