The high volume of short second shears eased slightly at the latest NZ Wool Services International's auction compared to the last North Island auction on May 12, says chief executive John Dawson.

Fonterra has announced an opening forecast farmgate milk price of $4.25/kgMS for the 2016/17 season, an increase of 35 cents on the forecast for the current season.

Gold kiwifruit has transformed the industry in the last 15 years, says Zespri chief operating officer Simon Limmer.

Three or four years ago Zespri found the business environment in China challenging.

People say China will be self-sufficient in milk soon, says ASB general manager rural Mark Heer.

Entrepreneur Diane Foreman says she does not oppose the selling of dairy farms to Chinese buyers, provided the money is reinvested back into NZ business.

Vine disease (Psa) has had a positive impact on the kiwifruit industry, given where it is today, says Zespri International chief operating office Simon Limmer.

The pain New Zealand dairy farmers have endured for two years is now being shared round the world.

It's a simple equation: If Auckland spreads its housing into our fruit and vegetable production land - we all pay more for food.

Fonterra has confirmed it will pay part of its forecast final dividend earlier, to support farmers during a time of extremely tight on-farm cash flows.