Local government shake-up 'long overdue' - Feds
Federated Farmers says it is cautiously welcoming signals from the Government that a major shake-up of local government is on its way.
The government’s launch this week of a strategy for the future of farming will encourage farmers, says Federated Farmers president Katie Milne.
Read: Dairy, beef sectors welcome sector-wide vision.
She says farmers will continue with the work they are already doing, constantly focusing on improving their farming operations.
It is particularly pleasing to see the focus in the Primary Sector Council’s vision on the need to develop a mindset that embraces science, technology, research and development, Federated Farmers president Katie Milne says.
"I was also pleased to see the focus on infrastructure in here.
"It’s these things that will underpin delivery of the vision at the ground level. While the word sustainability is not used we’ll all identify with the strategy as what we have been working towards - sustainability on all levels - whether it’s our environment, animal welfare, on farm biodiversity, or the financial sustainability of farm businesses and rural communities.
The Primary Sector Council’s vision aligns with the Maori concept of Taiao, which is about having a close bond with the natural world.
"Most farmers can happily identify with this concept, and understand its implications. It’s a good platform to go forward from," Milne says.
"The key will be of course how this new entity will take those it targets with them on this journey."
Federated Farmers says it is cautiously welcoming signals from the Government that a major shake-up of local government is on its way.
Ashburton cropping and dairy farmer Matthew Paton has been elected to the board of rural services company, Ruralco.
The global agricultural landscape has entered a new phase where geopolitics – not only traditional market forces – will dictate agricultural trade flows, prices, and production decisions.
National Lamb Day is set to return in 2026 with organisers saying the celebrations will be bigger than ever.
Fonterra has dropped its forecast milk price mid-point by 50c as a surge in global milk production is putting downward pressure on commodity prices.
The chance of a $10-plus milk price for this season appears to be depleting.

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