Displaying items by tag: AgFirst

Around the Hawke's Bay region, the grass in the paddocks is looking greener as it recovers from two bad seasons of drought.

New farming rules around sustainability are driving elderly farmers out of the dairy industry, says agri-economist Phil Journeaux.

A leading farm consultant says farmers are becoming frustrated at the confusing advice they’re getting on how to deal with greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Rain is the magic tonic in the farming community, says Northland based AgFirst consultant Tafi Manjala.

Contract milking is a good introduction to self-employment, says Northland AgFirst consultant Kim Robinson.

Contract milking is a good introduction to self-employment, says Northland AgFirst consultant Kim Robinson.

Overall the dairy industry is more professional and in a good space, but volatility will continue, says James Allen, retiring AgFirst chairman.

Despite a rise in payout and profitability, dairy farmer confidence in Waikato and Bay of Plenty is relatively subdued.

Compliance is growing more intense and complicated, worrying hill-country sheep and beef farmers in the central North Island.

Sharemilkers – especially those with 50/50 contracts -- must be on guard against the risk of Mycoplasma bovis if they are planning to move at the end of the season or to buy new stock.