AMINZ launches Farm Debt Mediation video series with MPI
AMINZ and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) have partnered to develop a new Farm Debt Mediation video series aimed at farmers, creditors, and advisors.
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.
In the past, much has been made of the concept of farm to fork, but an Australian expert in food science and marketing with experience in the dairy industry, Dr Angeline Achariya, says the reverse of this slogan is critical to win modern day consumers.
Efficiency is the big one because it tracks back into what is done on farm.
A four year trial has reaffirmed that mixing plantain into dairy pastures can help reduce nitrogen losses to freshwater while maintaining milk production and profitability, say researchers.
Fonterra has opened its upgraded Chengdu Application Centre, bringing New Zealand dairy expertise closer to customers in one of China's fastest-growing regions.
When it comes to annual rebates, it's been a long time between drinks for Ravensdown shareholders.
Special courses for secondary school teachers to help excite kids about agriculture and horticulture are now being run at Massey University.

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