Farmlands returns to profit with strong FY25 result
Rural retailer Farmlands has reported a return to profitability, something the co-operative says shows clear progress in the second year of its five-year strategy.
From November 1, Farmlands' 58,000 shareholders will be able to choose between rewards points or Airpoints Dollars for their purchases.
Eligible purchases of grain, seed, nutrition, fertiliser and retail purchases, plus commission paid on livestock and real estate sales can now all count towards Air New Zealand Airpoints thanks to a new rural loyalty rewards programme with the airline.
"We have a very loyal shareholding of hard working farmers. The addition of Airpoints to our loyalty programme allows our shareholders to choose the rewards that they really want." says Farmlands chief executive Brent Esler.
The partnership with Air New Zealand will expand the cooperative's existing agri-business rewards programme Choices, which has so far proven very successful for the company.
Waikato dairy farmer Neil Bateup, made a companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) in the New Year 2026 Honours list, says he’s grateful for the award.
Another Australian state has given the green light to virtual fencing, opening another market for Kiwi company Halter.
Farmer interest continues to grow as a Massey University research project to determine the benefits or otherwise of the self-shedding Wiltshire sheep is underway. The project is five years in and has two more years to go. It was done mainly in the light of low wool prices and the cost of shearing. Peter Burke recently went along to the annual field day held Massey's Riverside farm in the Wairarapa.
Applications are now open for the 2026 NZI Rural Women Business Awards, set to be held at Parliament on 23 July.
Ravensdown has announced a collaboration with Kiwi icon, Footrot Flats in an effort to bring humour, heart, and connection to the forefront of the farming sector.
Forest & Bird's Kiwi Conservation Club is inviting New Zealanders of all ages to embrace the outdoors with its Summer Adventure Challenges.