Move over ham, here comes lamb
It’s official, lamb will take centre stage on Kiwi Christmas tables this year.
Alliance Group has secured greater access for chilled beef exports to China, following approval for two of its processing plants to supply the market.
The company's Levin and Mataura plants have received certification to process and export chilled beef to China, strengthening Alliance’s ability to meet growing international demand.
“This is not only an excellent outcome for the important China market, but it also strengthens our global options,” says Wayne Shaw, general manager safety and processing at Alliance Group.
The company has already successfully shipped its first load of chilled beef from its Levin plant, which cleared customs in China in early January. A shipment from Mataura has arrived in China, further expanding the company’s footprint in the premium chilled beef sector.
“China remain a significant market for New Zealand red meat, with strong demand for high-quality, grass-fed beef.
“The approval of additional processing plants gives Alliance greater flexibility in our supply chain and the ability to respond more effectively to market opportunities.
“It also allows us to optimise processing capacity across our network, providing better outcomes for both our farmer shareholders and our customers.”
The move aligns with Alliance Group’s long-term beef strategy, says Shaw.
“We’re continuing to invest in expanding our beef processing capabilities, including at our Levin plant, and driving growth in our premium beef brands.”
More than 150 people turned up at Parliament recently to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ).
Biosecurity New Zealand says Kiwis should continue to keep an eye out for yellow-legged hornets (Vespa velutina) over the holiday season.
The Push-Up Challenge, an event which combines mental health and fitness, is set to launch in New Zealand in 2026.
Last month's Agritechnica event led to a wide group of manufacturers celebrating successes when the 2026 Tractor of the Year Competition winners, selected by a panel of European journalists, were announced in Hanover Germany.
According to the latest Federated Farmers banking survey, farmers are more satisfied with their bank and less under pressure, however, the sector is well short of confidence levels seen last decade.
Farmer confidence has taken a slight dip according to the final Rabobank rural confidence survey for the year.

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