James Blair Named 2026 Young Grower National Champion
James Blair, an agronomist for AS Wilcox and the Pukekohe regional champion, has won the 2026 Young Grower national title.
Horticulture New Zealand says the Government cannot "cherry-pick" its way through the recommendations of the Land and Water Forum.
HortNZ says it supports the 60 recommendations. But it does so with stern words of caution for the Government.
"This is an all or nothing situation for horticulture," Horticulture New Zealand natural resources and environment manager Chris Keenan says.
"The intent of this report, and the three that preceded it, is clear – to maximise the economic benefits of fresh water while managing within quality and quantity limits, set by the whole community.
"Achieving this requires everyone to play their part, and that's what all 60 of these recommendations, and the ones made previously aim to encourage.
"Only implementing some of the recommendations, and avoiding or ignoring others, will upset the delicate balance that has been achieved so far by all the sectors involved."
Entries opened on Monday, 5 October 2026 for the 2027 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards (NZDIA), which organisers describe as the nation's biggest celebration of excellence in the dairy sector.
Waikato milk processor Tatua has again declared a record milk payout to farmer shareholders, leaving other processors in the dust.
A Labour-led Government won’t be bringing back the controversial freshwater rules of 2020.
National’s much-touted free trade deal with India featured in the Rural Issues Debate at Mystery Creek, Hamilton on Wednesday night.
New Zealand's 2026-27 freshwater fishing season has opened, with anglers encouraged to head to rivers and lakes over the coming days as conditions look favourable across much of the country.
Central Otago District Council (CODC) has voted against a plan to spread treated sewage sludge from Cromwell and Alexandra on farmland near Lauder, a decision Federated Farmers says reflects strong opposition from rural residents.

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