New Zealand primary sectors were not expecting the World Trade Organisation (WTO) decision to remove all agricultural export subsidies, says the new Trade Minister Todd McClay.

Rural services company PGW Wrightson says its run-in with the competition watchdog over price fixing was a tough lesson.

Dairy effluent is a valuable resource which, when managed well, increases pasture production and reduces fertiliser costs.

Getting cows in calf well takes a year-round approach. The results achieved in the mating period are impacted by many factors earlier in the season or even in seasons gone by.

Every year New Zealand dairy farmers spend at least $400 million on animal health. This value encompasses all costs – from antibiotic treatment, through to drenches and minerals.

The Ministry for Primary Industries says E-commerce has huge potential for the New Zealand primary sector.

An iconic agricultural figure – shearer David Fagan – is now Sir David.

A man who has devoted virtually all his working life to the collection of statistics about the sheep and beef industry has been recognised in the New Year's honours.

"Everyone's trying all sorts of combinations to get through" is how Cheviot's Emmet Daly describes North Canterbury farmers' efforts to cope with their sixth season of drought.

Cow lameness is a painful condition. As farm systems change, farm sizes grow and herd numbers expand, lameness is an increasing concern on New Zealand farms.