Who's the glutton?
OPINION: We are told there is a wine glut - production outstripping demand worldwide - and the words 'wine lakes' are being thrown around.
Wine growers have welcomed the economic cooperation agreement signed this week between New Zealand and Taiwan, giving New Zealand wine tariff-free access to the Taiwan market as soon as it comes into force next year.
The deal advantages New Zealand wine exporters, says general manager advocacy and trade for New Zealand Winegrowers, Dr John Barker.
"Taiwan is a small but developed market well suited to the premium wine styles New Zealand offers.
"Asia is an increasingly important destination for New Zealand wines. This agreement will make New Zealand the only wine exporter with tariff-free access to China, Hong Kong and Taiwan."
Trade Minister Tim Groser says the deal will benefit New Zealand exporters, "enhancing New Zealand's growth prospects through vastly improved links with a major Asian economy.
"It will immediately eliminate the tariffs for over 70% of current exports to Chinese Taipei, and will eventually allow 100% of New Zealand goods to enter tariff-free."
Amelia Marsden has secured the 2026 Nelson Young Grower title for the second year running, earning another opportunity to represent the region at the national Young Grower of the Year competition later this year.
Federated Farmers is urging the Government to put a halt to Waikato Regional Council's controversial Plan Change 1 (PC1), warning the regulations will impose significant costs, complexity and duplication on thousands of farmers while major national reforms remain unresolved.
Joshua Irving has been named the 2026 Ormond Nurseries North Canterbury Young Viticulturist of the Year.
Vets say they support the responsible use of virtual fencing and virtual herding technology for cattle and wants to work with farmers, manufacturers and government to help shape standards for future use backed by ongoing research to strengthen animal welfare outcomes.
National and world records tumbled as top Kiwi axeman claimed two Stihl Timbersports world titles at the same event in Budapest, Hungary over the first weekend in June.
A safety push across New Zealand has revealed significant gaps in hazardous substances management, farm vehicles, tractors, quad bikes and side-by-sides.

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