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."
Most dairy regions around the country have had a pretty good season so far says Tracy Brown.
Rural leader Mark Hooper has been appointed as an independent director to the NZPork board, bringing extensive farming, governance and advocacy experience to the role.
Opportunity says its land value tax (LVT) is unlikely to force farmers into a position where asset sales or increased debt are required.
Milk powder prices are keeping farmgate prices up, helping processors offset the dip in milk fat prices.
Climate, nature and animal wellbeing make up Fonterra's refreshed sustainability roadmap released last week.
The Government is introducing a new nationwide rural recycling scheme that will significantly increase the recovery of farm plastics from March next year, Minister for the Environment Nicola Grigg announced today.

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