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OPINION: This old mutt has a lot of time for outspoken North Otago farmer and stud breeder Jane Smith.
Not known for mincing her words when it comes to tackling bureaucrats or industry leaders that she disagrees with, it appears the firebrand Smith is also not one to pussyfoot around when advertising her and husband Blair’s Newhaven perendale stud.
A mate of yours truly pointed out a recent advert run by Newhaven promoting their stud. Its headline read: “Not a socialist sheep in sight.”
The ad went on to say, “At Newhaven we don’t breed any left-wing sheep – those that take up your time, your money and still wait at the gate for a handout.”
Talk about nailing your colours to your mast!
Your old mate has to tip his hat to the Smiths; at least those on the outlook for perendale sheep will not die wondering what they are in for.
OPINION: The same mainstream media muppets that brought you Jacindamania in 2017 have been flat out pimping for the Opportunities Party, labelled by some as the 'LinkedIn Greens' for their corporate spin on Green-esque 'tax the rich' policies.
OPINION: Your old mate reckons the atrocious way farmers in the UK are treated by their lords and masters in Westminster is a salient warning for us.
OPINION: Proponents of regenerative agriculture tend to be naturally aligned with a 'green mindset', so they will be nonplussed with their new mates in the US of A.
OPINION: Mike Chapman, former chief executive of levy-funded HortNZ, has thrown out a challenge to farmers and growers to put their levy-funded industry organisations under the same scrutiny as fertiliser, electricity, labour and freight.
A fair question has been raised about how member-funded organisations should conduct themselves when taking a public position on any given issue.
National’s much-touted free trade deal with India featured in the Rural Issues Debate at Mystery Creek, Hamilton on Wednesday night.
New Zealand's 2026-27 freshwater fishing season has opened, with anglers encouraged to head to rivers and lakes over the coming days as conditions look favourable across much of the country.
Central Otago District Council (CODC) has voted against a plan to spread treated sewage sludge from Cromwell and Alexandra on farmland near Lauder, a decision Federated Farmers says reflects strong opposition from rural residents.
Pāmu has released its FY26 Integrated Annual Report, reporting a Net Operating Profit of $113 million, more than double the $49 million recorded in FY25.
Meat Industry Association data, released alongside the Red Meat Sector conference in Wellington, shows export value climbing across the US, China, UK and Canada.
Applications are set to open for the 2027 Zanda McDonald Award, a trans-Tasman award recognised for identifying and fast-tracking talented young leaders in agriculture and agribusiness.
