Damien O’Connor: NZ united on global trade
When it comes to international trade, politicians from all sides of the aisle are united, says Labour's trade spokesman Damien O'Connor.
The Government is launching a programme to boost graduate vet numbers in the regions.
Thirty graduate vets will receive a financial boost to help develop their careers through the Voluntary Bonding Scheme for Veterinarians.
Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor says vets perform a crucial role in the success of our primary industries and our wider economy, but attracting and retaining these vets in our regions is challenging.
“The Ministry for Primary Industries Voluntary Bonding Scheme for Veterinarians is designed to support and boost the number of graduate vets in our regions who are working with production animals such as cows, sheep and horses.”
This year’s successful applicants will receive $55,000 each over five years — a total of $1.65 million.
“Our regions are desperate for skilled workers, including vets, so it’s important we give them every encouragement to pursue their veterinary careers in the primary industries, which support our rural communities, regions and economy,” says O’Connor.
Hemp fibre processor Rubisco is relocating its core processing facility to Ashburton as part of a $20-$30 million expansion to leverage what it says is an accelerating global demand for sustainable and renewable fibres.
Tradition meets some of the latest in technology at the 2026 East Coast Farming Expo.
OPINION: Trade Minister Todd McClay and the trade negotiator in government have presented Kiwis with an amazing gift for 2026 - a long awaited and critical free trade deal with India.
Former Agriculture Minister Nathan Guy says he's excited about his new role as NZ's Special Agricultural Trade Envoy.
A pillar of New Zealand's horticultural industry, Dr Stuart Davis, was farewelled at a well-attended funeral service in Tuakau, South Auckland, on December 18.
A stable but uncertain year lies ahead for New Zealand primary products, says Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Director General, Ray Smith.

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