Pay Equity Crucial for Rural Communities - RWNZ
Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) says it welcomes the release of a new report into pay equity.
Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) chief executive Gabrielle O’Brien will step down at the end of June.
O’Brien says she’s taking this step with mixed emotions.
“I have absolutely loved working with the board and national office team and meeting so many of our wonderful members over the past three years,” O’Brien says.
“It’s been a privilege to lead this special organisation and I’m proud of the work we have achieved during my tenure, including navigating the organisation through the challenges of the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“As we prepare for next year’s Centenary, I am most proud of all of the work that has gone into setting up the organisation for the next 100 years. I am confident it will continue to play an important role in connecting and supporting women at the heart of our rural communities.”
After finishing up, O’Brien plans on pursuing some different opportunities, projects and interests including some travel.
Rural Women NZ board president Gill Naylor says she will miss O’Brien’s measured expertise.
“It’s been a great pleasure to work with Gabe and she is leaving the organisation in a much stronger position to tackle the future as a result of her dedication and commitment over the past three years,” Gill says.
The board will begin the process for recruiting a new chief executive shortly.
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.
Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says a series of rural resilienced set to be rolled out next week will help farmers and growers better prepared for adverse weather events.
The head of Massey University's School of Agriculture and the Environment, Professor Paul Kenyon, says the outlook for the primary sector is positive with record numbers of students enrolling for Massey's range of undergraduate courses in the primary sector.
Palmerston North mayor Grant Smith is a long-time supporter of the CD field days and says the benefits from it flow into his city.
The finalists have been announced for the 2026 Beef + Lamb New Zealand Awards, with 24 finalists across eight categories.
The lower North Island township of Feilding is gearing up for its biggest event of the year - the annual Central Districts Field Days.

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