Ray Smith: Dairy still has growth potential despite flat export outlook
Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Director General Ray Smith believes there is potential for an increase in dairy farming in New Zealand.
Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy has welcomed the findings of an independent report into the Primary Growth Partnership (PGP) by the Office of the Auditor-General.
"I'm pleased with the findings of this report which show the PGP is generally working well and has made improvements from when it was first set up," says Guy.
"The report praises the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) for managing partnerships with industry and notes the good progress being achieved in these innovative R&D programmes.
Guy says that the MPI accepts the recommendations for improvements in how to more clearly communicate progress, including how the PGP works and its achievements, and will be making these adjustments.
"There is already a large amount of public reporting on the progress of PGP schemes with a detailed website, quarterly reports, financial audits, regular newsletters, an annual expo and a presence at Fieldays are some examples."
According to Guy, the PGP has shown the primary sector working collaboratively adding value not just to the primary industries, but also to New Zealand's wider economy.
"These programmes have a major part to play in our goal of doubling the value of primary sector exports by 2025," he says.
"It's pleasing to see continuous improvement and learnings from when the PGP was first set up in 2009."
With collars on more than seven million cows worldwide, Nedap says its standalone launch into New Zealand represents world-leading, reliable and proven smart technology solutions for dairy farmers.
The Meat Industry Association (MIA) is once again looking for game-changing ideas for New Zealand's red meat processing and exporting sector.
Environment Southland is inviting feedback on two bylaws that play a critical role in safeguarding the region's waterways and ensuring the safety of the local community.
While the North Island is inundated with rain, Southland is facing receding water levels as warm weather and lack of rainfall continues.
Entries have opened for the 2026 Fieldays Innovation Awards.
Organisers are expecting another full field of 40 of the country’s top shearers for the popular Speed Shearing event at this year’s Southern Field Days at Waimumu.

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