How farmers make spring count
OPINION: Spring is a critical season for farmers – a time when the right decisions can set the tone for productivity and profitability throughout the year.
North Waikato sheep and beef farmer John Jackson has thown his hat in the ring for a seat on the board of fertiliser co-op Ballance.
Jackson describes himself as a good listener, communicator, independent thinker and team player.
He believes that he can bring all of these attributes and day-to-day farming experience to the fertiliser company’s board table.
“I have a history of working collaboratively to achieve positive outcomes. I am a good listener and critical thinker. I can capably represent farmer shareholders’ interests.”
Jackson says the co-op is in good financial shape and credits this to its current and former shareholders, administrators and all those associated with the company.
“It has moved with the times – not just in the quality and formulation of product – but with the technology around application,” he adds.
“However, the challenges keep coming. It is of utmost importance that we continue with appropriate messaging of the ‘science-based’ approach – backed up with certified quality and accuracy of placement to ensure our place in the world.”
Jackson says his links to both farming and Ballance are not tenuous.
“Our shareholding in Ballance has grown as our business has grown. I live the droughts and the good seasons, the industry setbacks and its successes,” he explains.
With the current situation in the European farm machinery market being described as difficult at best, it’s perhaps no surprise that the upcoming AgriSIMA 2026 agricultural machinery exhibition, scheduled for February 2026 at Paris-Nord Villepinte, has been cancelled.
The Meat Industry Association of New Zealand (MIA) has launched the first in-market activation of the refreshed Taste Pure Nature country-of-origin brand with an exclusive pop-up restaurant experience in Shanghai.
Jayna Wadsworth, daughter of the late New Zealand wicketkeeper Ken Wadsworth, has launched an auction of cricket memorabilia to raise funds for I Am Hope's youth mental health work.
As we move into the 2025/26 growing season, the Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA) reports that the third quarter results for the year to date is showing that the stagnated tractor market of the last 18 months is showing signs of recovery.
DairyNZ chair Tracy Brown is urging dairy farmers to participate in the 2026 Levy vote, to be held early next year.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is calling for nominations for director roles in the Eastern North Island and Southern South Island electoral districts.

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