Removing Grapevines Safely: Disposal Options Compared
I am often asked by industry people, what are the options for removing a grapevine without producing a phytosanitary problem? Can it be done sustainably? What will it cost me?
Pāmu has released its FY26 Integrated Annual Report, reporting a Net Operating Profit of $113 million, more than double the $49 million recorded in FY25.
The state-owned enterprise, described as New Zealand's largest farming business, paid a $25 million dividend to its shareholder and delivered a total shareholder return of 11.4 percent for the year, a measure the company says reflects both financial performance and broader value creation.
The report outlines progress across a range of strategic priorities, including climate adaptation, Farm Environment Plans, workforce development, technology adoption and innovation partnerships.
Pāmu said these priorities reflect the findings of a recent materiality assessment, which identified the value the company provides in testing, demonstrating and sharing new farming approaches that benefit the wider sector, beyond its own operations.
Pāmu Chief Executive Mark Leslie said stakeholders recognised the role Pāmu can play in helping the broader primary sector address shared challenges and opportunities.
"As a state-owned enterprise, we have an opportunity to create spillover benefits that extend well beyond our own farms," Leslie said.
The report cites technology partnerships, genetics programmes, environmental initiatives and other innovations as examples of work aimed at improving productivity, sustainability and resilience across New Zealand agriculture.
The result marks a significant improvement in profitability year-on-year, though the report frames the outcome as more than a financial story — pointing to Pāmu's dual role as a commercial farming business and a state-owned entity expected to generate wider benefits for the sector, including in environmental practice and innovation.
Farmers are being encouraged to rethink how they manage waste on farm with the launch of ruralwastesorted.co.nz, a new website bringing together practical tips, real farmer experiences and resources.
New Zealand Winegrowers (NZW) is celebrating the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) coming into force today, bringing New Zealand wine improved access to one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
New Zealand’s red meat sector has welcomed the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement taking effect, which removes India’s 33% tariff on New Zealand sheepmeat.
More than 95 per cent of New Zealand’s forestry and wood exports to India can now enter tariff free as the New Zealand-India Free Trade Agreement comes into force today.
Federated Farmers is backing Feilding High School’s call to keep Agriculture and Horticultural Science as a standalone subject in Year 11.
Food and fibre exports have returned a billion- dollar bonus to the country.

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