Editorial: Right call
OPINION: Public pressure has led to Canterbury Police rightly rolling back its proposed restructure that would have seen several rural police stations closed in favour of centralised hubs.
Canterbury processor, Synlait Milk has increased its forecast of the market milk price for this season from $4.40/kgMS to a range of $4.50 - $4.70/kgMS.
"The market has recovered faster than expected, but recent volatility has shown us it still remains fragile," says Synlait Milk managing director John Penno.
Penno also acknowledged how financially difficult the current season is for suppliers and says this increased forecast market milk price range will be well received.
"Cash flows are incredibly important for our suppliers, particularly as they head into winter. We indicated in February that our next update would be in May, but given current market conditions, I'm pleased we can provide one now."
Penno adds that this update will enable Synlait suppliers to manage their finances with more certainty and a corresponding increase in advance rates will further support this.
"We believe the market will continue to recover in the medium term as consumption expands and production growth slows in response to lower pricing. However, we remain mindful of the additional milk growth likely to come from Europe as milk production quotas are removed on April 1.
"We will continue to keep an eye on the market and expect to update our forecast market milk price towards the end of May 2015".
Greenlea Premier Meats managing director Anthony (Tony) Egan says receiving the officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) honour has been humbling.
Waikato dairy farmer Neil Bateup, made a companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) in the New Year 2026 Honours list, says he’s grateful for the award.
Another Australian state has given the green light to virtual fencing, opening another market for Kiwi company Halter.
Farmer interest continues to grow as a Massey University research project to determine the benefits or otherwise of the self-shedding Wiltshire sheep is underway. The project is five years in and has two more years to go. It was done mainly in the light of low wool prices and the cost of shearing. Peter Burke recently went along to the annual field day held Massey's Riverside farm in the Wairarapa.
Applications are now open for the 2026 NZI Rural Women Business Awards, set to be held at Parliament on 23 July.
Ravensdown has announced a collaboration with Kiwi icon, Footrot Flats in an effort to bring humour, heart, and connection to the forefront of the farming sector.

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