Winston Peters calls Fonterra vote result 'utter madness'
New Zealand First leader and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters has blasted Fonterra farmers shareholders for approving the sale of iconic brands to a French company.
Fonterra chairman John Wilson says the governance and representation review was “a thorough and thoughtful process”.
Over 600 farmer meetings were held during the review process.
Wilson thanked farmers for supporting the changes, including reducing the board size from 13 to 11. Final voting figures show 85.96% support among farmers. The co-op needed at least 75% farmer shareholders support.
A proposal to revamp the Fonterra Shareholders Council was passed with 88% support.
Wilson says farmers have had a lot on their plate over the past two years. Low milk prices and weather have made life challenging on farm.
“I thank farmers for their efforts.”
He also thanked Shareholders Council members and area managers for their efforts.
Just over 50% of Fonterra farmers cast their votes.
Acclaimed fruit grower Dean Astill never imagined he would have achieved so much in the years since being named the first Young Horticulturist of the Year, 20 years ago.
The Ashburton-based Carrfields Group continues to show commitment to future growth and in the agricultural sector with its latest investment, the recently acquired 'Spring Farm' adjacent to State Highway 1, Winslow, just south of Ashburton.
New Zealand First leader and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters has blasted Fonterra farmers shareholders for approving the sale of iconic brands to a French company.
A major feature of the Ashburton A&P Show, to be held on October 31 and November 1, will be the annual trans-Tasman Sheep Dog Trial test match, with the best heading dogs from both sides of the Tasman going head-to-head in two teams of four.
Fewer bobby calves are heading to the works this season, as more dairy farmers recognise the value of rearing calves for beef.
The key to a dairy system that generates high profit with a low emissions intensity is using low footprint feed, says Fonterra program manager on-farm excellence, Louise Cook.

OPINION: The Greens have taken the high moral ground on the Palestine issue and been leading political agitators in related…
One of the most galling aspects of the tariffs whacked on our farm exports to the US is the fact…