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The problem for NZ is that the US has grown in importance as a market for our meat, so yes, we do need the US, probably more than they need us.
OPINION: President Donald Trump's bizarre hard line approach to the world of what was once 'rules-based trade' has got New Zealand government officials, politicians and exporters on tenterhooks.
They are crossing their fingers that NZ will somehow avoid the wrath that Trump has inflicted on Canada, Mexico and to a slightly lesser degree on China, while leaving the supposed enemy, Russia unscathed. Trump and his hatchet team have thrown the whole world into chaos, yet, unbelievably, many Americans think they are right.
The strategy from NZ thus far has been to be a 'stealth fighter jet' and remain unseen by Trump's radar. But how long will this be possible? NZ has a few things going for it, starting with the fact that we don't have a major trade imbalance with the US. And maybe being small is helpful - who knows?
The problem for NZ is that the US has grown in importance as a market for our meat, so yes, we do need the US, probably more than they need us.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's comments on the Trump administration have been carefully phrased so as not to offend. He has wisely taken the line of his officials, avoiding at all costs any comments that might offend or spark a negative response to NZ.
But despite this delicate diplomacy, the chances are that through no fault of its own, NZ will likely get caught in the crossfire between the US and the other countries it is targeting.
Opposition leader Chris Hipkins has said it's unlikely that NZ will get off scot-free in the turmoil that Donald Trump is creating. If any of NZ's trading partners suffer economically from what is happening, we too will likely suffer.
As of now, the Government is playing its cards right with the US and one can only hope this helps mitigate any major damage to our economy.
OPINION: After seven years of Adrian Orr’s antics as Reserve Bank NZ governor, the priority of his successor, Anna Breman, surely is rebuilding the tarnished reputation of the RBNZ, not stepping on the Foreign Minister’s toes by commenting on US domestic politics.
OPINION: November 7 has been set by Christopher Luxon as ‘E day’ – election day.
Leading trade analyst Stephen Jacobi has rubbished claims that New Zealand could have got a better free trade deal with India if it had prolonged the negotiations.
OPINION: When he promised an Indian FTA in his first term, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon was really putting it all on red for the win. Against the odds (and with help from Todd McClay and others), he has thumbed his nose at the many doubters by closing just such a deal before Christmas – a move that will change the narrative around the PM and could help him win the election.
Additional tariffs introduced by the Chinese Government last month on beef imports should favour New Zealand farmers and exporters.
The Meat Industry Association (MIA) is once again looking for game-changing ideas for New Zealand's red meat processing and exporting sector.
Environment Southland is inviting feedback on two bylaws that play a critical role in safeguarding the region's waterways and ensuring the safety of the local community.
While the North Island is inundated with rain, Southland is facing receding water levels as warm weather and lack of rainfall continues.
Entries have opened for the 2026 Fieldays Innovation Awards.
Organisers are expecting another full field of 40 of the country’s top shearers for the popular Speed Shearing event at this year’s Southern Field Days at Waimumu.
The Southern Field Days Innovation Awards have a great record in picking winners and the winner of the 2024 event will be putting up a display to support the event at this year’s show.
OPINION: Meanwhile, red blooded Northland politician Matua Shane Jones has provided one of the most telling quotes of the year…
OPINION: This old mutt has been around for a few years now and it seems these ‘once in 100-year’ weather…
