increase font size
OPINION: This old mutt notes that 'activist' Angus Robson tried a new tack in using woke, online media outfit Newsroom to reboot his ongoing - and thus far failed - attempt to muddy the name of NZ farming.
Just before Christmas, a story ran on Newsroom, fed to it by Robson, accusing McDonalds of encouraging mud farming.
This followed a failed complaint by Robson to the Advertising Standards Authority where he whined about ads used by Maccas promoting the use of NZ beef in its burgers that described NZ beef as being raised in "an ideal climate, lush pastures and innovative farming".
Robson's complaint to the ASA said the claims were misleading because of some of the winter grazing practices used by NZ beef farmers.
Sensibly, the ASA dismissed this whingey complaint and Maccas are still promoting its yummy, NZ beef filled burgers.
OPINION: The same mainstream media muppets that brought you Jacindamania in 2017 have been flat out pimping for the Opportunities Party, labelled by some as the 'LinkedIn Greens' for their corporate spin on Green-esque 'tax the rich' policies.
OPINION: Your old mate reckons the atrocious way farmers in the UK are treated by their lords and masters in Westminster is a salient warning for us.
OPINION: Proponents of regenerative agriculture tend to be naturally aligned with a 'green mindset', so they will be nonplussed with their new mates in the US of A.
OPINION: Mike Chapman, former chief executive of levy-funded HortNZ, has thrown out a challenge to farmers and growers to put their levy-funded industry organisations under the same scrutiny as fertiliser, electricity, labour and freight.
A fair question has been raised about how member-funded organisations should conduct themselves when taking a public position on any given issue.
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.
