M.I.A.
OPINION: The previous government spent too much during the Covid-19 pandemic, despite warnings from officials, according to a briefing released by the Treasury.
OPINION: The Hound would have thought with the country under the red light setting due to the threat of Omicron ravaging the nation, industry leaders and the Government would hold off mass gatherings that risk crippling NZ's primary sector.
However, it seems the promoters of the primary industry climate action partnership, He Waka Eke Noa (HWEN), and its government masters are forcing farmers to continue with its proposed round of consultation meetings.
Despite Beef+Lamb chair Andrew Morrison declaring the HWEN consultations "the most important things farmers will do this year", the meetings will be limited to only 100 people with only the vaccinated able to attend.
Why have HWEN not pushed back on government demands for the consultations to go ahead, given the restrictions on numbers and obvious health risks?
Is this just another sign of the current industry leadership's total feebleness when it comes to government?
Waikato dairy farmer Neil Bateup, made a companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) in the New Year 2026 Honours list, says he’s grateful for the award.
Another Australian state has given the green light to virtual fencing, opening another market for Kiwi company Halter.
Farmer interest continues to grow as a Massey University research project to determine the benefits or otherwise of the self-shedding Wiltshire sheep is underway. The project is five years in and has two more years to go. It was done mainly in the light of low wool prices and the cost of shearing. Peter Burke recently went along to the annual field day held Massey's Riverside farm in the Wairarapa.
Applications are now open for the 2026 NZI Rural Women Business Awards, set to be held at Parliament on 23 July.
Ravensdown has announced a collaboration with Kiwi icon, Footrot Flats in an effort to bring humour, heart, and connection to the forefront of the farming sector.
Forest & Bird's Kiwi Conservation Club is inviting New Zealanders of all ages to embrace the outdoors with its Summer Adventure Challenges.

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…