Farmers Weekly In Focus

(00:00:00) Full Show | August 7 (00:02:19) Solar farms and tallow: Two rural trends to watch (00:09:33) Lamb markets signal a slight correction (00:18:43) How local government reform could weaken biosecurity (00:30:27) Regulations strangling pest management This week we examine the issues shaping rural New Zealand. Hawke's Bay Council's Sophie Siers discusses biosecurity reform, AgriHQ's Mel Croad explains the lamb market outlook, Neal Wallace looks at solar farm expansion and rising demand for tallow, and Federated Farmers' Brent Mountford outlines why pest control regulations are becoming a growing concern for volunteers.

A new report warns that proposed structural changes to local government could undermine New Zealand's biosecurity programmes. Commissioned by the country's 16 regional and unitary councils, it examines the risks of reducing or pausing these programmes. Hawke's Bay Regional Council chair Sophie Siers joins the show to unpack the findings and their implications.

Senior reporter Neal Wallace has been looking at the spate of solar farms being built or planned, and finds some people are worried they will displace good, productive land. He's also been investigating the rise in popularity of tallow, which is being used in everything from skincare products to cooking to fuel.

AgriHQ senior analyst Mel Croad says farmgate returns for lamb have been held high by a procurement battle, but there's been a bit softening in key export markets and we should expect prices to ease a little in the coming months. 

Federated Farmers Bay of Plenty president Brent Mountford says regulations are putting volunteers off doing pest management, as the cost of certification for managing pest management tools like Feratox become prohibitive.

(00:00:00) Full Show | July 31 (00:02:10) What climate policies are parties pitching? (00:07:58) Ewe market steady as lambs enter mix (00:13:56) Indian appetite for strong wool grows (00:21:47) How to farm smarter through El Niño (00:31:29) Feds take issue with ACT hunting policy This week on the Farmers Weekly Podcast, senior reporter Neal Wallace examines the political parties' climate policies and what they could mean for farmers, before looking at how declining global livestock numbers are supporting New Zealand's red meat outlook. AgriHQ analyst Fiona Quarrie reviews the ewe market, Associate Agriculture Minister Mark Patterson discusses opportunities for strong wool in India, Ravensdown's Mike White shares El Niño advice, and Federated Farmers responds to ACT's proposed game animal policy.

Ravensdown chief scientist Mike White joins the show to talk through some of the key things farmers should be thinking about as El Niño progresses. 

Associate Agriculture Minister Mark Patterson visited India recently to attend its massive textile fair, and says buyers there are hungry for our strong wool. He says there's an opportunity to strengthen partnerships with businesses there and raise farmgate returns further.

Senior reporter Neal Wallace takes a look at the policy offerings for climate change mitigation, and finds parties across the political spectrum have disparate views, is it business as usual or increased regulation? Global livestock numbers are on the decline, and Neal says this bodes well for our red meat exports in the medium term.

AgriHQ analyst Fiona Quarrie wraps up the in-lamb ewe market and then speculates on how the ewes with lambs at foot market will play out as the season progresses.

ACT's plan to transfer responsibility for managing game animals on conservation land to the Game Animal Council needs a major rethink, according to Federated Farmers. Richard Dawkins, pest management spokesperson, says allowing the Game Animal Council to set game population targets is extremely concerning.

In this week's Farmers Weekly Podcast, senior reporter Neal Wallace discusses the latest progress on RMA reform and China's changing economy. AgriHQ's Alex Coddington explains how dairy beef is reshaping livestock markets, Melissa Clark-Reynolds explores AI's impact on farming, and Federated Farmers' Mark Hooper welcomes the latest RMA changes.

Agri-futurist and former Beef + Lamb NZ independent director Melissa Clark-Reynolds knows more than most about the impact of AI now, and its potential to disrupt our future. She tells Bryan how AI will affect our careers, our day to day work, and farming's future.

Senior reporter Neal Wallace has gauged the response to the Select Committee's report on the government's RMA legislation. Most industry bodies are supportive of the report's suggestions and look forward to the Bill progressing. China's stalling economy has some economists questioning whether its growth charge is over, though Neal has found some believe the economic transformation taking place will kickstart a new growth phase soon.

AgriHQ analyst Alex Coddington says the growing move to integrate dairy beef into farming businesses is having a big impact on the livestock markets, and while our appetite for more beef genetics will be welcomed in export markets right now, we need to take care not to fuel a boom and bust scenario.

This week the Government announced that the agreements councils reach with local iwi would be scrapped, with new rules being drafted for future agreements. Federated Farmers RMA spokesperson Mark Hooper has welcomed the move, and is also optimistic about the RMA reform, following the release of the Select Committee report on the proposed legislation.

(00:00:00) Full Show | July 17 (00:01:51) Zespri to ask growers to back Chinese SunGold again (00:11:54) Ups and downs at Temuka's in-lamb ewe fair (00:19:03) What El Niño could mean for NZ farmers this spring (00:34:28) River maintenance falls short In this week's Farmers Weekly Podcast, weather expert Phil Duncan explains what a possible El Niño could mean for New Zealand farmers this spring. Senior reporter Richard Rennie also discusses Zespri's possible second grower vote on Chinese SunGold production, livestock emissions research and urease inhibitors, while AgriHQ's Suz Bremner reviews the Temuka in-lamb ewe fair and Federated Farmers Robert Hickson examines river maintenance failures in Wairarapa.

Farmers Weekly's weather man Phil Duncan is here to explain what El Nino is, how it might affect global food production, and what farmers and growers in New Zealand need to know heading into spring.

Senior reporter Richard Rennie joins the show to discuss some of the top stories of the week, including Zespri's possible plan for a second grower vote on whether to add Chinese SunGold fruit to its international mix. Richard has also been talking to Massey University researcher Dr Amelia Almeida, who updated Australia's livestock emissions model and now has New Zealand's in her sights. Richard also talks about urease inhibitors and whether they are actually doing what they state on the tin.

AgriHQ senior analyst Suz Bremner reports on the recent Temuka in'lamb ewe fair, which saw record prices for the top lines before buyers became a lot more picky, resulting in a topsy-turvy day for vendors.

Federated Farmers' Wairarapa president Robert Hickson tells Bryan that recent rain in the region caused unnecessary flooding as a result of poor or non-existent riverbed maintenance. He says the buildup of gravel in key rivers exacerbated the floods and wants to see agreement reached on how to avoid the same situation in future.

(00:00:00) Full Show | July 9 (00:01:52) Is America's beef boom starting to slow? (00:09:46) A closer look at Ingka's new Hawke's Bay forest (00:20:13) Red light for Green water policy Ingka Investments country manager Kelvin Meredith joins the Farmers Weekly Podcast to discuss the company's newest Hawke's Bay forest and its long-term approach to production forestry and sustainability. AgriHQ senior analyst Mel Croad explains why America's appetite for beef may be starting to cool, and what that could mean for red meat prices. Plus, Federated Farmers national board member Mark Hooper shares his concerns about the Green Party's freshwater policy and its potential impact on farming and food prices.

Ingka Investments country manager Kelvin Meredith showed Bryan around one of their new forest plantings in Central Hawke's Bay. He says the company is committed to sustainability, being a good neighbour and producing high quality production timber.

AgriHQ senior analyst Mel Croad joins the show to discuss red meat pricing, noting that America's voracious appetite for beef appears to be diminishing a little. While it won't see prices fall off a cliff, it is definitely something to keep an eye on.

Federated Farmers' national board member Mark Hooper says the Green Party's freshwater policy is scientifically and economically illiterate, and would push up the price of food here in New Zealand. He says while everyone wants improved water quality, that doesn't have to come at the cost of food affordability.

(00:00:00) Full Show | July 3 (00:01:33) Strong wool market reaches new highs (00:06:07) How Massey is helping solve the ag teacher shortage (00:14:47) Federated Farmers welcomes solar consent reforms This week: Strong wool prices have more than doubled over the past year. AgriHQ's Sara Hilhorst explains what's driving the remarkable rally. Feature guest Massey University Professor Paul Kenyon discusses a new programme to help tackle the shortage of agriculture and horticulture teachers, while sharing the latest on the university's enrolment surge. And Federated Farmers' Mark Hooper welcomes National's proposal to make on-farm solar installations a permitted activity without resource consent.

Head of Massey University's School of Agriculture and Environment Professor Paul Kenyon joins the show to discuss a new micro-credential course programme being offered to secondary teachers that will help them teach agriculture and horticulture at high schools. More and more schools are offering these subjects but there is a shortage of teachers. He also gives an update on the enrolment situation at Massey, which is enjoying a big surge.

AgriHQ analyst Sara Hilhorst says the strong wool season ended with the Fusca coarse fleece indicator more than doubling from last season, after continuing to strengthen throughout the year. The benchmark also made significant gains over the past two months, extending its steady upward trend.

Federated Farmers' national board member Mark Hooper is applauding the National Party for its plan to make it much easier for farmers to install solar. The party plans to make it a permitted activity not requiring resource consent.

This week: Landfall Strategy Group's Dr David Skilling discusses how businesses can adapt to ongoing geopolitical instability, higher capital costs and disrupted supply chains. EECA's Chris McArthur outlines practical advice for farmers considering farm solar, drawing on demonstration farms across New Zealand. Federated Farmers' West Coast president Simon Cameron argues farmers' stewardship should be central to discussions on proposed Conservation Act changes and the future of New Zealand's conservation estate.

Landfall Strategy Group's senior adviser on geopolitics and economic policy, Dr David Skilling, joins the show to discuss the global geopolitical scene, saying we won't see a return to normality and must adapt to ongoing conflict, a higher cost of capital and strained supply chains.

EECA's farm solar boss Chris McArthur tells Bryan about the advice and assistance they offer farmers as they consider investing in farm solar systems. EECA has gathered a range of demonstration farms to provide ongoing updates on their journey across a range of farming systems and regions.

Federated Farmers' West Coast president Simon Cameron says recent commentary about changes to the Conservation Act miss the point, and that it's vital the farmers helping preserve our conservation estate are given the opportunity to do their work.

(00:00:00) Full Show | June 19 (00:01:33) Tight supply, strong demand for store lambs (00:07:30) Why PF Olsen and Forest 360 became Stand (00:19:23) What Federated Farmers wants from the next government This week's Farmers Weekly podcast dives into the strong store lamb market, with AgriHQ senior analyst Suz Bremner explaining why buyers are still chasing limited numbers and paying top dollar. We also delve into a major development in forestry, with Stand CEO Dan Gaddum discussing the merger of PF Olsen and Forest 360 and what it means for the sector. Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford rounds things out with the organisation's wishlist for the next government to help farming prosper.

Big forestry companies PF Olsen and Forest 360 have merged to form Stand – a new forest management outfit. CEO Dan Gaddum joins Bryan to discuss why the merger occurred, what the company's future looks like, and the state of the sector.

AgriHQ senior analyst Suz Bremner says store lamb prices remain strong despite lower yarding volumes, with vendors benefiting as buyers compete to fill paddocks and capitalise on this year's record-high lamb schedules.

Federated Farmers' president Wayne Langford goes over the organisation's five-point plan for the next government, which highlights reforms he says will help farming flourish. They include lowering the cost of production, investing in infrastructure, and helping the next generation of farmers.

(00:00:00) Full Show | June 12 (00:00:47) Fieldays through a student's eyes (00:05:11) Quality cattle on offer at bull sales (00:13:00) Emissions reduction tools hit the accelerator (00:16:22) Feds celebrates QEII funds In this week's episode, student ambassador Harriet Johnston shares her first impressions from Fieldays and what caught her eye. AgriHQ senior analyst Suz Bremner reviews the early bull sales season, where quality cattle, strong averages and full clearances have been standout features. AgriZeroNZ chief executive Wayne McNee chats about a new fund aimed at accelerating the uptake of emissions reduction tools on farms. Plus, Federated Farmers' Brent Mountford welcomes a government funding boost for the QEII Trust to help protect native biodiversity on New Zealand farms.

Bryan catches up with Wayne McNee, chief executive of AgriZeroNZ, about the new fund to help get emissions reduction tools into the hands of farmers. Wayne explains how the funding will work, and who might apply for it.

Farmers Weekly student ambassador Harriet Johnston reflects on the first day of Fieldays. The Lincoln University student is one of four student ambassadors who accompany Farmers Weekly to the big events in farming.

AgriHQ senior analyst Suz Bremner wraps up the early bull sales, highlighting the quality of cattle on offer. Averages have been good and full clearances a feature.

Federated Farmers' Bay of Plenty president Brent Mountford is over the moon after the government pledged to double the money the QEII trust uses to protect native plantings on New Zealand farms.

(00:00:00) Full Show | June 5 (00:01:56) Opportunities on the menu in Thailand (00:06:50) AgriHQ Insight | Can sheepmeat returns hold at record highs? (00:14:09) Rural real estate market finds momentum (00:31:59) Feds new Taranaki president focused on reform In this week's Farmers Weekly podcast, Neal Wallace reports from Thailand after attending one of Asia's largest food fairs, highlighting growing opportunities for New Zealand exporters in a nation of more than 50 million consumers.AgriHQ analyst Mel Croad examines whether record sheepmeat returns can be sustained as strong global demand continues to support lamb and mutton prices.Senior reporter Richard Rennie explores renewed momentum in the rural real estate market, including the return of dairy conversions with a different approach to past booms.Federated Farmers' new Taranaki president Nick Brown discusses local government reform and its implications for farmers.

Senior reporter Richard Rennie talks with Duncan Ross of Bayleys about the resurgent real estate market. He highlights the return of dairy conversions, but says the strategy is different from previous booms.

Senior reporter Neal Wallace has just returned from Thailand, where he soaked in the food culture and attended one of the largest food fairs in the region. He says the nation of more than 50 million people holds many opportunities for NZ exporters.

AgriHQ analyst Mel Croad talks lamb and mutton this week, outlining the factors contributing to record farmgate returns. Export markets are maintaining demand at these high prices so far, but the next few months will be crucial to watch to get a gauge on whether those returns will be sustainable.

Federated Farmers' Taranaki president Nick Brown talks with Bryan about the big issues on the agenda on the coast, with local government reform at the top of the pile.

In this episode, AgriHQ analyst Alex Coddington reflects on the recent Out the Gate conference and strong long-term beef and lamb price forecasts. Jacinta FitzGerald discusses plans to unlock more value from New Zealand's fibre industry, while Federated Farmers' Richard Dawkins welcomes new funding for wilding pine control.

Enough fibre to fill 6600 shipping containers is produced by New Zealand every year, much of it exported as unprocessed product with its value-added potential unrealised, CEO of Fashion and Textiles NZ Jacinta FitzGerald outlines a new strategy to change that.

AgriHQ analyst Alex Coddington reflects on the recent Out the Gate conference in Christchurch. She says Australian analyst Simon Quilty's prediction of sustained high farmgate prices for beef and lamb aligns with AgriHQ's own modelling.

Federated Farmers' pest spokesperson Richard Dawkins is celebrating new funding for wilding pine control. The government will invest an additional $79 million over the next three years to tackle wilding pines, taking the total commitment to $109m.