Rural Mobile Coverage Worse After 3G Shutdown, Survey Finds
Mobile phone coverage and reliability are deteriorating in rural areas, and farming families are bearing the cost, according to a Federated Farmers survey.
Former MP and Southland farmer Eric Roy has received the Outstanding Contribution to New Zealand’s Primary Industries Award.
Roy, who has been chair of NZPork since 2019, received the award for his production, leadership, advocacy and political service to primary industries and rural communities in New Zealand and the wider Pacific for nearly 60 years.
His work for Young Farmers culminated in his election as world president, and the six-term Member of Parliament has also excelled in roles with Federated Farmers, Pamu, the Meat & Wool Board and a host of community and charity initiatives.
"Few can match his contribution - Eric Roy is a truly exceptional New Zealander," the judging panel said.
NZPork deputy chair Jason Palmer says Roy’s decades of service to farming, rural communities and public life reflect a commitment to doing the right thing for farmers, the primary sector and the country.
“He has provided invaluable leadership to NZPork during his time as chair on our board, helping shape the future of sustainable pig farming in New Zealand. We’re really pleased to see that contribution recognised at a national level.”
High country stations, mixed sheep and beef farms, Māori-owned farms, corporates and family operations are among the nine commercial farms taking part in the Livestock Innovation Farming Transformation programme, known as LIFT.
OPINION: New health and safety guidance unveiled by the Government recently provides farmers greater certainty about what is expected of them when managing risks on farm.
The National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) is seeking public feedback on proposed changes to the Code of Welfare for Rodeos.
A New Zealand initiative supporting farmers to restore the health of grazing landscapes has received international backing through the Regenerative Fund for Nature, a global collaborative fund supporting regenerative agriculture and the communities that produce natural fibres for the fashion industry.
Combine premium New Zealand products, blend in a family ritual and what do you get? A world-class functional drink.
Entries are now open across eleven regions for the 2027 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards (NZDIA).

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