Fonterra Suppliers Confident in Mainland Dairy Future
Fonterra's 460 milk suppliers in Australia, who will switch to Lactalis end of this month, are unfazed with the impending change.
FONTERRA'S MILK across New Zealand reached 554 million kgMS last month, up 4.3% on the same month last year.
In its monthly global dairy update issued this morning, the co-op says milk collection volumes peaked at 89.7 million litres per day in mid‑October.
New Zealand has a predominantly pasture-based milk supply curve and production peaks around mid-October every season.
Fonterra says North Island collection in October reached 147 million kgMS, seven million kgMS ahead of October last season.
North Island production growth continues, supported by mild spring temperatures, good soil moisture and strong pasture growth.
South Island collection in October reached 86 million kgMS, three million kgMS ahead of October last season.
Conditions have been variable across the South Island with cooler conditions experienced in central and the lower South Island. However, the co-op says current pasture growth conditions are still supporting increased production compared to last season.
Milk collection across Australia for the four months to October 31 reached 44 million kgMS, four million kgMS ahead of the same period last season.
Favourable spring conditions continued, particularly in Tasmania, where good rain and mild temperatures have continued to drive production growth, Fonterra says.
Milk collection in Australia in October reached 15 million kgMS, one million kgMS ahead of October last season.
We are not a bunch of sky cowboys. That was one of the key messages from the chairperson of the NZ Agricultural Aviation Association (NZAAA) Kent Weir, speaking at an education day at Feilding aerodrome for 25 policymakers and regulators from central and local government and other rural professionals.
New Zealand's dairy and beef industries say they welcome the announcement that the Government will invest $10.49 million in the Dairy Beef Opportunities (DBO) programme.
New Zealand farming is riding a high, with strong prices, full feed covers and improving confidence lining up at the same time.
Manawatu Mayor Michael Ford says the district sees itself as the agribusiness capital of the lower North Island.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is looking forward to connecting with farmers, rural professionals and community members at this year's Central District Field Days.
Labour Party Leader Chris Hipkins has announced a reshuffle of the party's caucus portfolios.

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