Fonterra Suppliers Confident in Mainland Dairy Future
Fonterra's 460 milk suppliers in Australia, who will switch to Lactalis end of this month, are unfazed with the impending change.
Fonterra director Colin Armer has resigned.
In a statement released this morning, the corporate farmer gave no reason for his decision. He was reportedly on a shortlist for the Fonterra chairmanship, which becomes vacant when Henry van der Heyden retires in December. However, last week Fonterra announced John Wilson as the chairman-elect.
Armer says for many years he has been a strong supporter of the New Zealand dairy industry and an advocate for Fonterra's important work.
"I will continue to be," he says.
Armer thanked shareholders that have supported him in the past and says he will continue to support the cooperative model in the future.
He says he has nothing but praise for the Fonterra chief executive and the management team. He made no mention of the board.
Armer says he will not be available for further comment.
Recently Armer's company Armer Farms (NI) entered a guilty plea in Tauranga District Court to a charge of unlawful discharge of dairy effluent at a Maketu farm two years ago and was fined $72,000.
New Zealand's dairy and beef industries say they welcome the announcement that the Government will invest $10.49 million in the Dairy Beef Opportunities (DBO) programme.
New Zealand farming is riding a high, with strong prices, full feed covers and improving confidence lining up at the same time.
Manawatu Mayor Michael Ford says the district sees itself as the agribusiness capital of the lower North Island.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is looking forward to connecting with farmers, rural professionals and community members at this year's Central District Field Days.
Labour Party Leader Chris Hipkins has announced a reshuffle of the party's caucus portfolios.
Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says a series of rural resilienced set to be rolled out next week will help farmers and growers better prepared for adverse weather events.

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