Fonterra slashes forecast milk price, again
Fonterra has slashed another 50c off its milk price forecast as global milk flows shows no sign of easing.
A MEDIA report speculating on the causes of the Fonterra contamination scare has been slammed by the New Zealand Veterinary Association.
"Claims made by Mr Frank Rowson, recently reported in the media, about the cause of the contamination are speculation and not helpful in assisting the investigation," NZVA President Dr Steve Merchant (pictured) says.
Last week's front page story in the Straight Furrow, headlined "Vet links GE feed, sprays to botulism", reported Rowson's suspicion botulism causes unexplained deaths in New Zealand livestock, and ran a string of MPI e-mail responses.
The NZVA says Rowson, who was described as a vet and farm consultant in the article, is not a registered veterinarian or NZVA member.
"He does not represent the views of the veterinary profession or that of the NZVA. We are dealing with a complex scientific issue and we need to bring together the relevant scientific expertise in New Zealand to ensure the investigation leads to a successful resolution," said Dr Merchant.
Legal controls on the movement of fruits and vegetables are now in place in Auckland’s Mt Roskill suburb, says Biosecurity New Zealand Commissioner North Mike Inglis.
Arable growers worried that some weeds in their crops may have developed herbicide resistance can now get the suspected plants tested for free.
Fruit growers and exporters are worried following the discovery of a male Queensland fruit fly in Auckland this week.
Dairy prices have jumped in the overnight Global Dairy Trade (GDT) auction, breaking a five-month negative streak.
Alliance Group chief executive Willie Wiese is leaving the company after three years in the role.
A booklet produced in 2025 by the Rotoiti 15 trust, Department of Conservation and Scion – now part of the Bioeconomy Science Institute – aims to help people identify insect pests and diseases.

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