As we approach National Fieldays, the foggy season has arrived in Waikato, but it’s not all gloom and doom.

Prices have been up at weaner fairs around the country, reflecting the buoyancy of the beef market and the need for many hill country farmers to reduce stock numbers ahead of winter, comments PGG Wrightson.

Cropping farmers are being urged to consider the true cost of winter grazing to their businesses.

In February the management team at Lincoln University were wringing their hands as the season appeared to be turning to custard, but at the latest field day the tone was much more upbeat.

To call it a perfect storm trivialises the difficulties primary producers are facing in the balance between environment, welfare (human and animal) and economics. 

Farmers are anxious about what the health and safety reform will bring and the new challenges that lie on the horizon. 

Entries are now open for the 100% New Zealand Bacon & Ham Competition and top butchers are encouraging their peers to enter.

Australia's largest dairy co-op has voted to adopt Fonterra’s TAF-style capital structure.

Australian sheep farmers are banking on strong prices lamb in the coming years, but are warning of headwinds.

Kiwifruit exporters are planning more intensive marketing than they have ever before tried in Australia, to stimulate demand in a maturing market.