Beef prices climb as supply contracts in key markets
With production volumes contracting in most major beef-producing regions, global cattle prices have continued to rise across recent months.
National Lamb Day, the annual celebration honouring New Zealand’s history of lamb production, could see a boost in 2025 as rural insurer FMG and Rabobank sign on as principal partners.
Ag Proud and Beef + Lamb New Zealand will lead the campaign, reinforcing the day’s importance to both New Zealand’s history and its agricultural sector.
Marking the anniversary of the first frozen lamb shipment on February 15, 1882, National Lamb Day celebrates New Zealand’s food industry roots and the dedication of today’s farmers and producers.
Jon Pemberton, chair of the National Lamb Day committee, says the committee is “thrilled” to have FMG and Rabobank sign on for 2025.
“Their support brings tremendous value to this celebration of New Zealand’s proud agricultural heritage,” Pemberton says.
He says National Lamb Day is about honouring farmers and food producers, adding that having both companies on board strengthens the day’s ability to highlight the legacy and future of New Zealand lamb.
“We look forward to an exciting campaign that inspires Kiwis across the country to come together and raise a chop to an industry that has played such a significant role in our national prosperity,” Pemberton adds.
FMG client propositions manager, Karen Williams, says supporting National Lamb Day is an opportunity for the insurer to give back to farming communities.
“This day is a reminder of the hard work and passion behind every lamb chop and the industry’s contribution to our economy and culture,” Williams says.
Meanwhile, Rabobank chief executive Todd Charteris says the bank is proud to support the event.
“National Lamb Day aligns with our commitment to foster a sustainable future for food production in New Zealand,” Charteris says.
“We are delighted to celebrate the Kiwi farmers who produce quality lamb for customers here in New Zealand and around the world, and who help strengthen our agricultural legacy.”
Graduates of a newly-updated Agri-Women’s Development Trust (AWDT) course are taking more value than ever from the programme, with some even walking away calling themselves the “farm CFO”.
Meet the Need, a farmer-led charity, says food insecurity in New Zealand is dire, with one in four children now living in a household experiencing food insecurity, according to Ministry of Health data.
Applications have now opened for the 2026 Meat Industry Association scholarships.
Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) says it is backing aspiring dairy farmers through a new initiative designed to make the first step to farm ownership or sharemilking easier.
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