Honey sector strategy aiming for sweet spot
While confident that the apiculture sector can meet its target of doubling honey exports by 2030, chair of ApicultureNZ, Nathan Guy, says it will be challenging.
A new report commissioned by the Ministry for Primary Industries has shown the potential held in over one million hectares of Maori freehold land, says Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy.
The report Growing the Productive Base of Māori Freehold Land estimates that lifting productivity to average industry benchmarks could result in an additional $8 billion in gross output and 3,600 new jobs for the primary sector. To achieve the estimated gains an investment in the land of just under $3 billion would be required.
"The potential for Maori freehold land represents an opportunity for Maori, the wider primary sector and New Zealand as a whole," says Guy.
"The report confirms that some iwi are well organised and have their asset base generating good returns, while others haven't realised their true potential yet.
"It is ultimately up to Maori to work out how to realise that potential, but Government has an important role partnering with Maori as leaders in driving a change.
"The proposed reforms to the Te Ture Whenua Māori Act announced by Minister for Treaty Settlements Chris Finlayson and Minister of Māori Affairs Dr Pita Sharples will be an important step towards unlocking this potential."
Late last year the Ministry for Primary Industries provided close to $3 million in funding for initiatives to promote sustainability and innovation amongst Maori agribusinesses.
The Ministry is also working with education agencies, training providers and other stakeholders to identify the opportunities to provide targeted training to Maori agribusinesses.
The Maori collective asset base is estimated at $37 billion. About 30% ($10.6 billion) is estimated to be in the primary sectors.
Farmer-led charity, Meat the Need is calling for donations to enable it to supply more meals to families in need.
Weaker pricing and demand from China continue to impact New Zealand red meat export earnings.
Fonterra has cemented its position as the country’s number one cheesemaker by picking up nine NZ Champion of Cheese trophies this year.
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.