Importer: Fertiliser Security Policy Must Include All Players
An independent importer says National’s fertiliser security policy will only work if protects all players.
Todd Muller has taken over as the National Party's acting spokesman for agriculture, biosecurity and food safety.
Former National leader Todd Muller has taken over as acting spokesman for agriculture, biosecurity and food safety.
Muller replaces Barbara Kuriger, who resigned abruptly this morning over an ongoing dispute between her family and the Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI).
Opposition leader Chris Luxon says he accepted Kuriger’s resignation from the three portfolios last night. The Taranaki-King Country MP was appointed to the role one year ago.
Luxon says he become aware that Kuriger and her family are involved in a personal dispute with the Ministry of Primary Industries that is ongoing.
“I discussed this with Ms Kuriger and she accepts that this is a significant conflict of interest and the failure to recognise it and to take steps to manage this conflict has been a serious lapse of judgement.
“On this basis, Kuriger felt it appropriate to resign from her portfolios.
“From today, Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller will become Acting Spokesperson for Agriculture, Biosecurity and Food Safety.’
Luxon has reconfirmed that a major reshuffle in the coming months.
Farmers have until the end of this week to help shape DairyNZ’s future focus.
Wayne McNee, chief executive of AgriZeroNZ, has resigned and will leave the organisation on 15 January 2027.
The New Zealand dairy sector set a record in the 2025/26 season, producing more than two billion kilograms of milksolids for the first time.
Milk powder prices are continuing their merry run, firming up a potential $10/kgMS farmgate price this season.
Teachers are welcoming the outgoing Government’s U-turn allowing agriculture and horticultural science to remain a standalone Year 11 subject.
Outgoing ACT MP and dairy farmer Mark Cameron says Saturday’s election result reflects voters deeply impacted by the cost of living.