Editorial: Long overdue!
OPINION: The Government's latest move to make freshwater farm plans more practical and affordable is welcome, and long overdue.
While there is no news yet on whether Transpower would appeal Waimate District Council's decision to ignore the former's pylon buffer zone proposals, it seems likely Federated Farmers will appeal the plan to the Environment Court, albeit on different grounds.
The main reason is areas designated as 'outstanding natural landscape' include many already developed farms; other points include stock underpass requirements, setbacks for dairy shed construction, and hill and high country stocking rules.
Branch chairman Colin Hurst told Rural News they are reluctantly planning an appeal, as they appreciate the cost to all involved. "But we think [the council] need to take a hard look at themselves."
The 2025 game bird season is underway with Hawke’s Bay and Southland reporting the ideal weather conditions for hunters – rain and wind.
A group of meat processing companies, directors and managers have been fined a total of $1.6 million for deliberately and illegally altering exported tallow for profit.
New Zealand’s top cheeses for 2025 have been announced and family-owned, Oamaru-based Whitestone Cheese is the big winner.
Waikato farmer, and Owl Farm demonstration manager, Jo Sheridan is the 2025 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year.
New Zealand’s special agricultural trade envoy Hamish Marr believes the outlook for the dairy sector remains strong.
Everyone from experienced veterinarians and young professionals to the Wormwise programme and outstanding clinics have been recognised in this year’s New Zealand Veterinary Association Te Pae Kīrehe (NZVA) awards.