Three new grower directors appointed to FAR board
Effective from 1 January 2026, there will be three new grower directors on the board of the Foundation for Arable Research (FAR).
Arable farmers are being encouraged to vote before the August 23 deadline in a referendum, which will determine the future of the Foundation for Arable Research (FAR).
FAR is encouraging growers to use the online voting system, which is automatic and more secure.
Postal and online voting in the referendum closes at 12 noon on August 23, with voting results expected on August 28.
Under the Commodity Levies Act, growers have the opportunity to vote to renew levy orders every six years.
‘yes’ vote will ensure FAR’s continued existence, while a ‘no’ vote would result in the organisation being wound up, and all research and extension programmes ceasing.
FAR chief executive Alison Stewart is encouraging arable farmers to take the time to vote.
Legal controls on the movement of fruits and vegetables are now in place in Auckland’s Mt Roskill suburb, says Biosecurity New Zealand Commissioner North Mike Inglis.
Arable growers worried that some weeds in their crops may have developed herbicide resistance can now get the suspected plants tested for free.
Fruit growers and exporters are worried following the discovery of a male Queensland fruit fly in Auckland this week.
Dairy prices have jumped in the overnight Global Dairy Trade (GDT) auction, breaking a five-month negative streak.
Alliance Group chief executive Willie Wiese is leaving the company after three years in the role.
A booklet produced in 2025 by the Rotoiti 15 trust, Department of Conservation and Scion – now part of the Bioeconomy Science Institute – aims to help people identify insect pests and diseases.

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