NZ Farmers Power Economy as Primary Exports Hit Record $64 Billion
Farmers and growers are powering the economy with export revenue at record highs.
Dannevirke farmer Dan Billing has been announced as the new national chair of Beef + Lamb New Zealand's (B+LNZ) Farmer Council.
The announcement follows an election held last week where Billing ran unopposed from the chairs and deputy chairs from B+LNZ's seven regional Farmer Councils.
Dan Brier, B+LNZ's general manager farming excellence & extension says B+LNZ extends its thanks to outgoing chair Paul Crick, who has led the Farmer Council for six years.
“Paul has made an outstanding contribution on behalf of B+LNZ and farmers, and his efforts have been instrumental in strengthening farmer representation and engagement," Brier says.
"Paul has brought a real focus on ensuring B+LNZ is hearing the voice of our farmers and has contributed right across the organisation. He has participated in our Farmer Research Advisory Group, Industry People and Capability/Vocational training policy and programmes and as a Chief Judge of the B+LNZ Awards. Paul can step down knowing he has made a real impact on sheep and beef farming in New Zealand through his work with B+LNZ.”
Brier says Crick's successor, Billing - who is a banker as well as a farmer - brings a wealth of expertise to the role.
“With over 20 years of cumulative experience in farming, financial planning, governance support, and strategic thinking, Dan is well placed to lead the Farmer Council into its next chapter," he says.
“We are looking forward to working with him to continue delivering value for farmers and strengthening the voice of sheep and beef producers across New Zealand.”
Billing is currently based in Dannevirke having worked on farms and agribusiness across the Eastern North Island. He is elected having served in the B+LNZ Eastern North Island Farmer Council for eight years.
A formal farewell and thank you for Paul Crick will take place at the Out the Gate event in May 2026.
New Zealand’s vegetable sector will take centre stage at Parliament today, celebrating a vital industry and sharing a clear, future focused vision for how it can continue to thrive.
New Zealand red meat exports reached a second consecutive monthly record in May, rising to $1.6 billion, according to the Meat Industry Association.
Patoa Farms Limited, New Zealand's largest pig farm, has been sold for an undisclosed price.
Potatoes New Zealand says it congratulates Amber Davy of Eurogrow on her recent win at the 2026 Canterbury Young Grower of the Year competition.
For Tararua District dairy farmer Lisa Lyons, ongoing professional development has always gone hand-in-hand with life on the farm, but a major health challenge prompted her to take her study journey even further.
New import standards could put New Zealand’s blueberry industry and the wider horticulture industry at risk.

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