Editorial: So long, RMA
OPINION: Metaphorically, the funeral arrangements are being put in place to bury one of the largest and most complex pieces of legislation – the 34-year-old Resource Management Act (RMA).
OPINION: Your old mate welcomes the proposed changes to local government but notes it drew responses that ranged from the reasonable to the ridiculous, depending on what axe people had to grind.
Dr Deon Swiggs, chair of Canterbury Regional Council was measured: “I’m committed to working constructively with Government on reforms that deliver better outcomes.”
Fed Farmers spokesperson Sandra Faulkner was positive: “This discussion is long overdue and will be welcome news for farming families and rural ratepayers.”
But, predictably, and in line with other unions, the PSA’s national secretary Duane Leo had absolutely nothing positive to say about National’s proposal: “There is no clarity around the reform. These reforms continue the Government’s ongoing focus on marginalising Maori in local decision making.”
No surprises there!
A New Zealand dairy industry leader believes the free trade deal announced with India delivers wins for the sector.
The Coalition Government will need the support of at least one opposition party to ratify the free trade deal with India.
Primary sector leaders have welcomed the announcement of a Free Trade Agreement between India and New Zealand.
At Pāmu’s Kepler Farm in Manapouri, mating has wrapped up at the across-breed Beef Progeny Test.
More than 150 people turned up at Parliament recently to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ).
Biosecurity New Zealand says Kiwis should continue to keep an eye out for yellow-legged hornets (Vespa velutina) over the holiday season.

OPINION: The release of the Natural Environment Bill and Planning Bill to replace the Resource Management Act is a red-letter day…
OPINION: Federated Farmers has launched a new campaign, swapping ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ for ‘The Twelve Pests of Christmas’ to…