NZ Companies Launch World’s First Wool-Based Colour for 3D Printing Filament
A collaboration between two New Zealand companies will see wool used as a renewable colour source for 3D printing.
HIGHER SHEEP and beef prices seem set to buffer the drop in export earnings from dairying, according to the latest economic update from the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI).
Not surprisingly MPI is forecasting a 9.5% drop in total export earnings to $34.6 billion for the 2014-15 season, caused by a 23.5% drop in dairy exports.
The report says meat and wool exports this season will rise by 6.4% to $8.611 billion and horticulture and seafood exports will rise, but forestry will drop.
Global beef prices are expected to stay high for the next two years, offering an opportunity for farmers. Current high prices will enable farmers to invest in the quality of their herds to target higher value from each animal, says MPI. The retention of dairy calves offers another opportunity.
On the dairy side, MPI is forecasting a $4.82/kgMS farmgate payout – higher than Fonterra’s latest forecast and much higher than predicted by many analysts. There is talk of a payout about $4.40kgMS.
Looking a year ahead, MPI forecasts that primary exports in 2015-16 will be $36.1 billion – up 4.3% on this season. This is based on an improved performance in all sectors including dairying.
OPINION: Farmers around the country are welcoming the proposed reform of local government.
A move to boost farmer uptake of low methane emitting sheep is underway.
Silver Fern Farms has tackled the ongoing war-induced shipping challenges to mideast markets by airlifting 90 tonnes of chilled New Zealand lamb and beef to the United Arab Emirates.
The primary sector is leading New Zealand's economic recovery, according to economist and researcher Cameron Bagrie.
Dairy industry leader Jim van der Poel didn't make much of the invitation he received to the recent New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards in Rotorua.
Farmers around the country are going public big time, demanding their local district, city and regional councils come up with amalgamation plans that meet the needs of rural communities and don't allow urban councils to dominate.

OPINION: The old saying 'a new broom sweeps clean' doesn't always hold up, if you ask the Hound.
OPINION: This old mutt went to school to eat his lunch, but still knows the future of the country, and…