Nestle reportedly withdraws from methane accord
The ACT Party says media reports that global dairy giant Nestle has withdrawn from the Dairy Methane Action Alliance shows why New Zealand needs to rethink its approach to climate.
The Government has asked the primary production select committee to open an inquiry into rural bank lending practices.
However, the probe will feed into an overall inquiry report on banking competition.
ACT MP and committee chair Mark Cameron says he look forward to discussing with members of his committee and the finance and expenditure committee the terms of reference for an inquiry.
He will also discuss holding joint meetings to hear evidence from submitters and preparing a report on rural banking to feed into an overall inquiry report on banking competition.
“I’ve heard from countless farmers about the disparity between rural and urban bank lending practices, and I have been working on this issue since I became chair last year.
“In February, the Committee opened a briefing into rural bank lending, and we heard numerous concerns from farmers and others in rural communities.
“Based on this feedback, the Committee considered this issue was worthy of further scrutiny.’
Cameron says banks play an important role in communities.
“And we must ensure they’re operating in the best interests of all New Zealanders. Where issues like overly burdensome regulation that pushes up costs and compliance exist, this is an opportunity to put a target on it.
“I look forward to progressing this important piece of work to ensure the best outcome for rural New Zealand.”
After two years, Alliance Group has returned to profit.
According to Zespri's November forecast for the 2025/26 season, returns are likely to be up for all fruit groups compared to the last forecast in August.
Next month, wool training will reach one of New Zealand's most remote communities, the Chatham Islands - bringing hands-on skills and industry connection to locals eager to step into the wool harvesting sector.
Farmers' health and wellbeing will take centre stage with a new hub at the 2026 East Coast Farming Expo.
Dannevirke farmer Dan Billing has been announced as the new national chair of Beef + Lamb New Zealand's (B+LNZ) Farmer Council.
A Mid Canterbury beef farm has unlocked a new market for its products thanks to its unusual beef breed, and an award-winning pie taking the district by storm.

OPINION: Winston Peters has described the decision to sell its brand to Lactalis and disperse the profit to its farmer…
OPINION: The Hound reckons a big problem with focusing too much on the wrong goal - reducing livestock emissions at…