Seminar on improving dispute resolution
A seminar on rural dispute resolution has been organised at Lincoln University, Christchurch this month.
Resolving rural sector disputes constructively, fairly and with long-term outcomes in mind will top the agenda at a gathering of experts in Hamilton next month.
The Arbitrators' and Mediators' Institute of New Zealand (AMINZ) Rural Dispute Resolution Day 2025, on May 1 at Ruakura Conference Centre, will bring together dispute resolution, and farming and agribusiness experts.
AMINZ executive director Monique Pearson says the event is a cornerstone event for the year, as the only one in New Zealand dedicated to dispute resolution in the rural sector.
"The rural sector is the foundation of our nation's economy, and this unique forum provides an opportunity to address the various challenges in dispute resolution within this sector," says Pearson. "Whether you're a farmer, lender, lawyer or rural advisor, this day is for you."
The focus this year is on relationships, mental wellbeing, and the long-term sustainability of rural business and communities.
"These topics are especially timely and vital for anyone operating in the rural sector," says Pearson.
Platinum sponsor law firm Tavendale + Partners will have key speakers: firm business partner Guy Polson and partner Matt Davidson who will examine mediation from the farmer's point of view - looking at the psychology of stress from the farmer's perspective.
Three New Zealand agritech companies are set to join forces to help unlock the full potential of technology.
As the sector heads into the traditional peak period for injuries and fatalities, farmers are being urged to "take a moment".
Federated Farmers says almost 2000 farmers have signed a petition launched this month to urge the Government to step in and provide certainty while the badly broken resource consent system is fixed.
Zespri’s counter-seasonal Zespri Global Supply (ZGS) programme is underway with approximately 33 million trays, or 118,800 tonnes, expected this year from orchards throughout France, Italy, Greece, Korea, and Japan.
Animal owners can help protect life-saving antibiotics from resistant bacteria by keeping their animals healthy, says the New Zealand Veterinary Association.
According to analysis by the Meat Industry Association (MIA), New Zealand red meat exports reached $827 million in October, a 27% increase on the same period last year.

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