Strong industry partnerships will be cruical to protecting the future of New Zealand's primary industries as farming becomes increasingly data driven.

Changes have been announced to the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards programme.

OPINION: The New Zealand dairy sector attracts the best and brightest from around the world; aspirational farmers that want to make the highest quality products in the best environment.

Ravensdown has appointed Dr Will Talbot to the newly created position of scientific officer, supporting the chief scientific officer Ants Roberts in an ongoing programme of innovative science and technology projects.

Ashburton farmer Will Grayling has joined the Ballance Agri Nutrients board as its first associate director.

Power company Meridian has renewed its sponsorship of the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards (NZDIA) for another three years.

Farmax, a subsidiary of state-owned AgResearch, is now a sponsor of the Ballance Farm Environment Awards.

When it comes to consistent performance, Fonterra's Edendale site in Southland is second to none.

An award-winning Southland contract milker who was stuck in India for five months is hopeful of being back on farm in time for calving next month.

It's out with Coon branded cheese and in with Cheer.