West Otago Farmer Luke Kane Wins Rabobank 2026 Prize
West Otago dairy farmer Luke Kane has been awarded the 2026 Rabobank Dr John Morris Business Development Prize.
Rabobank has appointed Ben Picton to the newly-created role of senior strategist, global economics & markets.
Based in Sydney, Picton, will provide strategic macro-economic research and engagement – including interest rates and economic projections – for the specialist global agribusiness bank in New Zealand and Australia.
Rabobank New Zealand chief executive Todd Charteris says it was the first time Rabobank’s global economics & markets research team would have a representative based in the region, with the role specifically covering macroeconomics for New Zealand and Australia.
Charteris says Picton would “hit the ground running” having more than seven years of experience with Rabobank’s global financial markets team, where he held a number of positions in derivatives sales and trading, working with the bank’s wholesale agribusiness and farming clients.
His most recent role with Rabobank was director, corporate risk & treasury management.
A spat within the ranks of the New Zealand Deer Farmers Association has resulted in the suspension of outspoken North Canterbury farmer Barry Cuttance.
After delivering a strong financial year, rural trader PGG Wrightson says the coming months will depend on customer confidence and weather.
Beef+Lamb New Zealand and the Ag Emissions Centre have launched a new research project aimed at helping beef farmers reduce methane emissions without impacting productivity or profitability.
The apple sector is working with the Government to unlock access to two key markets that could bring millions in revenue for apple growers.
Celebrating 50 years in the rural landscape of Central Canterbury and beyond, Ashburton-based Carrfields, has been the exemplar for all aspects of modern agriculture via its extensive range of services including supply, growing, agronomic advice and marketing.
For Taupiri dairy farmers Logan and Sian Dawson, their involvement in the NZ Dairy Industry Awards has been a key catalyst in the growth of their business - the experience helping shape how they approach the farm ownership pathway they are pursuing today.

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