Wool campaign making strides
A group set up to boost education and promotion of wool says it has made positive strides during the first year of its three-year strategy.
The double auctions in the South and North Islands attracted more interest yesterday.
New Zealand Wool Services chief executive John Dawson reports that the stronger NZ dollar did not stop most types firming in price, the tight supply conditions and a little more interest from China for quick shipment helped to underpin the market.
Compared to the last South Island auction merino, mid micron and fine crossbred fleece was 3-5% dearer.
North Island carpet types were 2-4% dearer.
The next sale on the 27th October will comprise approx. 6,000 bales
A year on and the problems created by Cyclones Hale and Gabrielle has largely dropped off the radar of media and politicians.
The European Union Ambassador says the new free trade agreement (FTA) between the bloc and New Zealand will bring significant benefits to both parties.
Less Wellington bureucracy and more local, on-farm common sense was the focus of recent meetings held in South Canterbury as part of the Government's National Woolshed tour program.
'A lot of interest and positive responses' appears to be the way farmers are viewing the Government's initiative to hold a series of woolshed meetings around the country.
A Southland farming leader wants the regional council to delay a proposed regional rates hike, much of which is intended to fund flood protection works.