Damien O’Connor: NZ united on global trade
When it comes to international trade, politicians from all sides of the aisle are united, says Labour's trade spokesman Damien O'Connor.
OPINION: The Hound note that part-time ag minister, part-time trade minister and full-time handbag carrier for Jacinda, Damien O'Connor, did a bit of virtue signalling during an APEC trade ministers' meeting held in Bangkok last month.
Apparently, O'Connor boycotted any events involving his Russian counterpart at the event in protest against that country's invasion of Ukraine.
Before the meeting, an official confirmed that, "O'Connor will walk out when the Russian Minister Denis Manturov begins speaking at the meeting; he will not meet with him and will not attend the formal dinner if the Russian is present".
Wow, what a massive statement - no doubt Putin immediately withdrew his troops from Ukraine and currently is cowering in the Kremlin over this momentous move by O'Connor.
Do you mean he hasn't? So, it was just a pointless waste of time then? Thought so.
Bill and Michelle Burgess had an eye-opening realisation when they produced the same with fewer cows.
It was love that first led Leah Prankerd to dairying. Decades later, it's her passion for the industry keeping her there, supporting, and inspiring farmers across the region.
Rangitikei Rivers Catchment Collective (RRCC) chairperson Roger Dalrymple says farmers in his region are taking a national lead in water quality awareness and monitoring.
One young couple is proving farm ownership is still within reach for young Kiwis.
Greenlea Premier Meats managing director Anthony (Tony) Egan says receiving the officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) honour has been humbling.
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.

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