Spuds losing ground to housing
Potato growers are losing prime land to urban sprawl, with over 3000ha lost since 2016.
Potatoes New Zealand has announced the resignation of its chief executive, Chris Claridge.
Claridge has been in the role for a total of seven years, since 2015.
In his time with the industry association, Claridge brought numerous operational and technical services in-house, and ushered in a shift towards spending levy money on research and development.
In a statement released last night, the Potatoes New Zealand board said they appreciated the achievements of the organisation under Claridge’s leadership and wished him well in his next endeavours.
While Claridge has not announced any future plans, he will stay on as chief executive until the end of April.
Additional reductions to costs for forest owners in the Emissions Trading Scheme Registry (ETS) have been announced by the Government.
Animal welfare is of paramount importance to New Zealand's dairy industry, with consumers increasingly interested in how food is produced, not just the quality of the final product.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay is encouraging farmers and growers to stay up to date with weather warnings and seek support should they need it.
The closure of SH2 Waioweka Gorge could result in significant delays and additional costs for freight customers around the Upper North Island, says Transporting New Zealand.
OPINION: The year has started positively for New Zealand dairy farmers and things are likely to get better.
Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Director General Ray Smith believes there is potential for an increase in dairy farming in New Zealand.

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