India FTA Unites NZ First, Greens
National’s much-touted free trade deal with India featured in the Rural Issues Debate at Mystery Creek, Hamilton on Wednesday night.
Your old mate notes that the Greens latest policy – in its desire to 'clean up the country's rivers' – is to implement a wholesale ban on future dairy farm conversions.
The policy would bring down a ban preventing any rural landowner in NZ from ever being able to convert land to dairy. No wonder Labour's primary industries spokesman Damien O'Connor is walking round with a face like a slapped bum. He is likely to be shafted in respect of the primary sector portfolio in a Labour/Green coalition: it is common knowledge that Labour would happily give this portfolio to the Greens, and renowned farming hater Eugene Sage would likely get it. The Hound reckons it might be a good time for him to retire and go where he can actually make a difference.
Mark Hooper has been appointed the new chair of NZPork, the industry organisation representing New Zealand pig farmers.
As the India-New Zealand free trade agreement enters into force, New Zealand’s apple industry has reaffirmed its commitment to the long-term development of India’s apple sector.
Fonterra shareholders can begin voting on Tuesday 20 October in the 2026 Board of Directors’ election, a Co-operative Council election in one Ward, and seven Annual Meeting resolutions.
National’s pledge to introduce 19 new national standards shows the party is serious about getting Wellington out of farming, Federated Farmers says.
The National Party’s policies to make it easier to grow fresh vegetables, secure reliable water and energy and simplify farm planning are practical changes that will give growers the confidence to invest, according to Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ).
Fonterra Co-operative Group chief financial officer Andrew Murray has resigned to take up a role outside the dairy giant.

OPINION: The same mainstream media muppets that brought you Jacindamania in 2017 have been flat out pimping for the Opportunities…
OPINION: Your old mate reckons the atrocious way farmers in the UK are treated by their lords and masters in…