Farmers Unhappy With New RMA Replacement Bills
Farmers are unhappy with the Government's replacement legislation for the Resource Management Act (RMA).
OPINION: The release of the Natural Environment Bill and Planning Bill to replace the Resource Management Act is a red-letter day for the agricultural sector, kicking to touch the single biggest handbrake on agricultural productivity and rural economies – the much-hated RMA.
But like RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop, your old mate worries that the ‘can’t do’ types that infect the Kiwi culture these days will try and stifle the change.
Like in the education system, we’ve seen the politicised activists in councils push back against changes imposed by the current mob.
For the sake of the country, Bishop shouldn’t spare the rod to ensure the petty, negative Sir Humphries at council level don’t sink this revolution before it starts.
A Palmerston North shearer has been sentenced to six months' community detention and 12 months' supervision after being found to have physically abused three lambs while shearing them.
Power Farming has launched a joint venture in Southland.
Food rescue charity Meet the Need has released its 2025/26 Impact Report, revealing a record year of growth alongside a stark warning: demand for food support across New Zealand is rising faster than supply can keep up.
As we move into the second half of 2026, the Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA) reports that Year-to-Date figures ending June 30 saw new tractor deliveries hitting 1,386 units or 10.7% ahead of the same period in 2025.
The avocado sector is entering the new season with a larger crop and positive market opportunities.
New Zealand growers have always adapted to changing conditions, but one challenge is steadily gaining ground across the horticulture sector: resistance.

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