Value of feedpads expands beyond reducing waste
Over the past few months, I’ve had the privilege of speaking with many farmers at events and one-on-one.
Agricultural contractors are reminded they must leave a buffer of at least 2m between waterways and areas cultivated for growing maize.
Maize cultivation – involving ploughing paddocks and planting seed – happens in spring. The Waikato Regional Council has been receiving reports of contractors failing to follow the 2m rule.
"The rule is aimed at preventing sediment and nutrients in the soil from getting into waterways, as this can affect water quality and the health of aquatic organisms," says programme manager Ross Wightman.
"Following the reports of some contractors failing to maintain the right distance, all agricultural contractors in the region are being written to reminding them of their obligation.
"Farmers need to be aware of this issue to and ensure contractors are following the two metre rule," Wightman says.
"If a contractor fails to observe the right distance both they and the farmer can be liable for enforcement action."
New Zealand milk production is off to a strong start, with the first month of the 2025/26 dairy season recording a whopping 17.8% jump in milk production, compared to the previous season.
With adverse weather set to rain down on the Top of the South, the Bay of Plenty and parts of Northland, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says farmers, foresters, and growers need to prepare for possible challenges.
Keep up with innovation and e-commerce in China or risk losing market share. That was the message delivered at the China Business Summit in Auckland this month.
Meat Industry Association (MIA) independent chair Nathan Guy says getting meat processors involved has been a shot in the arm for the sector's key marketing initiative into China, Taste Pure Nature.
Listed carpet manufacturer, Bremworth is undertaking a $6 million expansion at its Napier plant more than two years after the site was heavily damaged by Cyclone Gabrielle.
Federated Farmers is vowing to keep the big banks accountable for their actions and to continue pushing for meaningful change in the rural lending sector.