Fonterra is committed to playing a role in advancing Maori farming interests, says chairman John Wilson.

It feels great to be acknowledged in this way and a huge honour.

Despite the low milk price there was a positive vibe among the 33 finalists competing for the NZ Dairy Awards this year.

Former Fonterra director Colin Armer is voting against the co-op's governance and representation proposal, which causes him some worries.

The Case IH Optum turned heads at Agritechnica in November last year, where it won the Machine of the Year 2016 Award. The first examples are due here this month.

Fonterra chief executive Theo Spierings says the long term fundamentals for global dairy remain positive.

Fonterra's new-season forecast farmgate milk price is "conservative" but the co-op expects the market to rebalance within 6-12 months, says Fonterra chairman John Wilson.

The dairy industry is not cashing in on global demand for organic milk products.

Agencies are keeping a close watch on dry conditions and farmer welfare in Hawke's Bay.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council biosecurity staff are warning local landowners to check that machinery is clean and stock are empty before allowing them through their gates this Gypsy Day.