Displaying items by tag: ELECTION 2026

For years, IrrigationNZ has called for a coordinated national approach to water security, backed by enabling regulation, strategic infrastructure investment and sound technical practice. As the 2026 general election approaches, many of these priorities are now reflected in political commitments and legislative reforms. That represents significant progress, but the real measure of success will be turning policy into practical outcomes, says IrrigationNZ principal technical officer Stephen McNally.

OPINION: Political parties are getting plenty of advice and recommendations from sector groups as the election approaches.

Dairy processors are ready to further boost New Zealand’s export earnings but want the incoming government to match their ambition with good policy.

Federated Farmers has welcomed new rural policies released by ACT, saying they align closely with its own election priorities.

OPINION: The farm policy on the table this election, what it could mean for land, and why the market you're in today still matters most

OPINION: Most farmers know which company collects their milk, processes their meat, supplies their fertiliser or lends them money. But how many know that many of those same companies are investing hundreds of millions in technologies designed to intervene in the natural digestive process of our animals? Did anyone ask farmers whether this is the future they want?

OPINION: Being the father of four, children’s books from our local library were regularly at our place.

OPINION: Making it easier to collect rainwater and use it to grow crops and livestock is a no brainer.

As part of its Election 2026 coverage, Rural News asked political parties how they would help pull the arable sector out of the doldrums. Here's what they said:

Beef + Lamb New Zealand says the National Party’s agriculture plan provides a strong basis for lifting productivity, supporting rural communities and recognising the sheep and beef sector’s environmental track record.