Farmers Weekly In Focus

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Farmers Weekly in Focus, brought to you by Ballance Agri-Nutrients, is a weekly podcast covering the big issues in the food and fibre sector. Each week managing editor Bryan Gibson presents a no-frills look at the news with the Farmers Weekly editorial team and the newsmakers they report on. It’s rich farming news for time-poor farmers.

AgriHQ


    • Feb 20, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 15m AVG DURATION
    • 467 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Farmers Weekly In Focus

    Full Show | February 20

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 31:13


    In this week's episode, senior reporter Neal Wallace covers severe weather impacts and sheep traceability, while AgriHQ's Alex Coddington previews strong demand and high expectations ahead of beef weaner sales. Feature guest Glenn Bewley from Woolworths discusses food security and sustainability, and Federated Farmers' Mark Hooper raises concerns about potential water taxes and infrastructure investment.News Wrap | Flood recovery and the push for sheep traceability1:40 – In this episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast, senior reporter Neal Wallace joins the show to unpack the impact of recent severe weather across New Zealand, including widespread flooding and the challenges farmers are facing on the ground. The discussion also turns to sheep traceability and what it could mean for strengthening biosecurity and accountability within the sector.AgriHQ Insight | Strong buying demand shapes weaner sales9:30 – AgriHQ analyst Alex Coddington shares his outlook for the livestock market ahead of the beef weaner sales. Strong schedules, solid buying power and a favourable growing season are setting the scene for high prices. Alex discusses what's driving market confidence – and the risks farmers should consider when making purchasing decisions in a shifting market.Feature | The realities of food security in New Zealand14:13 – Glenn Bewley, Woolworths' merchandise manager for vegetables and horticulture, joins the show to unpack the realities of food security in New Zealand. He discusses the value of strong, direct relationships with growers, the pressures created by extreme weather and urban encroachment, and why sustainability is becoming increasingly critical to the future of fresh produce supply.Feds Focus | Water tax must be ruled out24:30 – Federated Farmers is calling for amendments to the proposed resource management legislation so future governments cannot impose taxes on water. Mark Hooper says while the current government has ruled a water tax out, the legislation leaves the option on the table for those to come.The Final Word | Investment in infrastructure a priority28:57 – Climate scientists say storms like the one we experience this week are the new normal – that while we won't necessarily get more storms, those we do get will be more intense. But are we tackling this challenge with the investment, ambition and actions that will sustain our rural communities?

    Feature | The realities of food security in New Zealand

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2026 11:06


    Glenn Bewley, Woolworths' merchandise manager for vegetables and horticulture, joins the show to unpack the realities of food security in New Zealand. He discusses the value of strong, direct relationships with growers, the pressures created by extreme weather and urban encroachment, and why sustainability is becoming increasingly critical to the future of fresh produce supply.

    News Wrap | Flood recovery and the push for sheep traceability

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2026 8:41


    In this episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast, senior reporter Neal Wallace joins the show to unpack the impact of recent severe weather across New Zealand, including widespread flooding and the challenges farmers are facing on the ground. The discussion also turns to sheep traceability and what it could mean for strengthening biosecurity and accountability within the sector.

    AgriHQ Insight | Strong buying demand shapes weaner sales

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2026 5:30


    On this week's Farmers Weekly Podcast, AgriHQ analyst Alex Coddington shares her outlook for the livestock market ahead of the beef weaner sales. Strong schedules, solid buying power and a favourable growing season are setting the scene for high prices. Alex discusses what's driving market confidence, and the risks farmers should consider when making purchasing decisions in a shifting market.

    Feds Focus | Water tax must be ruled out

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2026 5:15


    Federated Farmers is calling for amendments to the proposed resource management legislation so future governments cannot impose taxes on water. Mark Hooper says while the current government has ruled a water tax out, the legislation leaves the option on the table for those to come.

    Full Show | 13 February

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2026 36:41


    Strong cattle demand continues to push prices higher, with a standout Matawhero sale delivering exceptional returns despite East Coast road closures. AgriHQ analyst Suz Bremner explains the impact of weather and tight supply on the market. Blair Rooney from Farm Focus discusses how AI is helping farmers improve financial management through smarter data analysis. Haast farmer Simon Cameron reflects on representing New Zealand at a major global agriculture forum in Berlin, while Federated Farmers raises concerns over generator charges for storm-hit farmers.AgriHQ Insight | Sky-high cattle prices despite East Coast disruptions1:51 – AgriHQ analyst Suz Bremner says the ongoing demand for cattle, particularly in light of recent weather challenges, has led to remarkable pricing trends in the market. A highlight of the week was a consignment of adult cattle sold at Matawhero, with prices sky high despite a change of venue with East Coast roads closed.Feature | How AI can work for your farm finances7:10 – Blair Rooney from Farm Focus discusses the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in financial management for farmers. He emphasises that AI is not meant to replace human decision-making but to assist in making better and faster decisions. The discussion covers the benefits of AI in analyzing large data sets, the importance of building trust in AI technology, and the future potential of AI in agriculture, particularly in data utilisation and analysis.Feature | Global farming reps meet in Europe19:35 – Haast farmer Simon Cameron recently travelled to the annual Global Forum for Food and Agriculture in Berlin, where he was part of the International Young Farmers' Forum. He shares his experience.Feds Focus | Generator charges hit storm-blown farmers29:15 – Jason Herrick of Federated Farmers Southland says the money being charged for generators during the recent wind storms was exorbitant, and he's asking for a rethink on how aid is delivered to those in need.The Final Word | Innovating with intent35:33 – While many commentators rail against “Frankenfood” and the protein alternatives now on the market, they fail to see the benefits that food technology brings the sector, and to those people who can't afford meat, milk and cheese.

    Feature | How AI can work for your farm finances

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2026 13:17


    Blair Rooney from Farm Focus discusses the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in financial management for farmers. He emphasises that AI is not meant to replace human decision-making but to assist in making better and faster decisions. The discussion covers the benefits of AI in analyzing large data sets, the importance of building trust in AI technology, and the future potential of AI in agriculture, particularly in data utilisation and analysis.

    AgriHQ Insights | Sky-high cattle prices despite East Coast disruptions

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2026 6:04


    AgriHQ analyst Suz Bremner tells Bryan the ongoing demand for cattle, particularly in light of recent weather challenges, has led to remarkable pricing trends in the market. A highlight of the week was a consignment of adult cattle sold at Matawhero, with prices sky high despite a change of venue with East Coast roads closed.

    Feature | Global farming reps meet in Europe

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2026 10:27


    Haast farmer Simon Cameron recently travelled to the annual Global Forum for Food and Agriculture in Berlin, where he was part of the International Young Farmers' Forum. He tells Bryan about his experience.

    Feds Focus | Generator charges hit storm-blown farmers

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2026 5:34


    Jason Herrick of Federated Farmers Southland says the money being charged for generators during the recent wind storms was exorbitant, and he's asking for a rethink on how aid is delivered to those in need.

    Full Show | 5 February

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2026 35:55


    (00:00:00) Full Show | 5 February (00:01:55) Can red meat farmers bank on record prices? (00:13:30) Inside the challenges facing NZ's specialty cheese sector (00:25:07) Canterbury crops under pressure after soggy summer In this week's episode, AgriHQ analyst Mel Croad talks about red meat prices, Whitestone Cheese managing director Simon Berry unpacks the challenges for artisan cheese, and Federated Farmers arable spokesperson David Birkett talks about winter feed risks following a wet summer.Market Insights | Can red meat farmers bank on record prices?1:56 – AgriHQ senior analyst Mel Croad says red meat farmers looking at the sector's current high prices are still trying to determine how far into the future they can bank on them. Having seen prices boom, then bust before, many are seeking confirmation the sector is experiencing a structural upward shift in prices that they can bank on for making longer term farm business decisions, including whether to increase breeding stock numbers.Feature | Inside the challenges facing NZ's specialty cheese sector13:30 – Whitestone Cheese managing director Simon Berry outlines some of the challenges the sector is facing at present. They include the cost-of-living crisis making consumers more wary of spending more on luxuries like artisan cheeses, the high ongoing regulatory costs producers face if they want to expand through export ventures, and the uncertainty the sale of NZ's largest specialty cheesemaker Kāpiti to French company Lactalis brings to the sector.Feds Focus | Canterbury crops under pressure after soggy summer25:08 – While the wetter summer has been a positive for pastoral farmers it has made growing and harvesting crops in Canterbury extremely challenging. For dairy farmers the summer has meant less irrigation, but it also means supplies of winter supplement crops may be harder to secure given the impacts weather has had. David is encouraging dairy farmers to start a conversation sooner than later with their arable crop growing partners to ensure they have a clear idea how much will be available, and start a Plan B for crop supply now if necessary.

    Feature | Inside the challenges facing NZ's specialty cheese sector

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2026 12:27


    Whitestone Cheese managing director Simon Berry outlines some of the challenges the sector is facing at present. They include the cost of living crisis making consumers more wary of spending more on luxuries like artisan cheeses, the high ongoing regulatory costs producers face if they want to expand through export ventures, and the uncertainty the sale of NZ's largest specialty cheesemaker Kāpiti to French company Lactalis brings to the sector.

    Market Insights | Can red meat farmers bank on record prices?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2026 12:40


    AgriHQ senior analyst Mel Croad says red meat farmers looking at the sector's current high prices are still trying to determine how far into the future they can bank on them.Having seen prices boom, then bust before, many are seeking confirmation the sector is experiencing a structural upward shift in prices that they can bank on for making longer term farm business decisions, including whether to increase breeding stock numbers.

    Feds Focus | Canterbury crops under pressure after soggy summer

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2026 10:31


    While the wetter summer has been a positive for pastoral farmers it has made growing and harvesting crops in Canterbury extremely challenging. For dairy farmers the summer has meant less irrigation, but it also means supplies of winter supplement crops may be harder to secure given the impacts weather has had. Federated Farmers arable chair David Birkett is encouraging dairy farmers to start a conversation sooner than later with their arable crop growing partners to ensure they have a clear idea how much will be available, and start a Plan B for crop supply now if necessary.

    Full Show | January 30

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 30, 2026 25:03


    In this episode, AgriHQ's Fiona Quarrie discusses strong lamb and ewe sales after recent rain, Sam Hogg shares how ecological farming can cut emissions and boost profits, and Jason Herrick from Federated Farmers unpacks Southland's local service reform ideas. Market Insights | Strong rainfall sends buyers back to the yards1:25 – AgriHQ analyst Fiona Quarrie says recent rain in regions like Hawke's Bay and Canterbury have been game changing for farmers who are now heading back to the saleyards to restock. Recent store lamb and ewe sales have been very strong, and will continue to be for a while yet. Feature | Why ecological farming is gaining ground7:30 – Sam Hogg has teamed up with his mate Sam Lang to write a chapter for the upcoming book Kiwis in climate: Solutions from Aotearoa New Zealand. Hogg told Bryan that viewing a farm as an ecosystem could transform the way it is managed and reduce emissions, build climate resilience and boost profits.  Feds Focus | Southland leading discussion on local government reform17:55 – Jason Herrick from Federated Farmers in Southland says local bodies there have been discussing how to rationalise services for more than a year, and the region could provide a blueprint for others.Follow the Farmers Weekly Podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Send us your feedback or get in touch at farmers.weekly@agrihq.co.nz 

    Feature | Why ecological farming is gaining ground

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2026 11:15


    Sam Hogg has teamed up with his mate Sam Lang to write a chapter for the upcoming book Kiwis in climate: Solutions from Aotearoa New Zealand. Hogg told Bryan that viewing a farm as an ecosystem could transform the way it is managed and reduce emissions, build climate resilience and boost profits.

    Market Insights | Strong rainfall sends buyers back to the yards

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2026 6:53


    AgriHQ analyst Fiona Quarrie says recent rain in regions like Hawke's Bay and Canterbury have been game changing for farmers who are now heading back to the saleyards to restock. Recent store lamb and ewe sales have been very strong, and will continue to be for a while yet.

    Feds Focus | Southland leading discussion on local government reform

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2026 6:51


    Jason Herrick from Federated Farmers in Southland says local bodies there have been discussing how to rationalise services for more than a year, and the region could provide a blueprint for others.

    Full Show | January 23

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2026 16:42


    This week, AgriHQ analyst Alex Coddington joins the studio to break down red meat markets, why prices are holding near record highs, and what global demand, climate shocks and trade risks mean for NZ farmers.Then Fonterra organics GM Andrew Henderson explains why the co-op will begin collecting organic milk in the South Island from 2028, driven by strong global demand, tight supply and customer pull.Market Insights | What's propping up red meat prices1:20 – AgriHQ analyst Alex Coddington joins the studio this week to talk about red meat markets. Alex unpacks why strong global demand for protein is underpinning sheep and beef values, the trade risks facing Australia, and why New Zealand farmers are comparatively well placed in a shifting global market.Feature | Fonterra targets South Island for organic expansion6:15 – Fonterra's general manager of organics Andrew Henderson discusses the co-op's planned expansion of organic milk collection to the South Island in 2028. He explains that strong global demand, supply shortages, and customer requests are driving the move. Henderson also shares insights into the logistics of processing organic milk, highlighting the Stirling site's ability to handle smaller volumes from local farmers.

    Feature | Fonterra targets South Island for organic expansion

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2026 10:12


    Fonterra's general manager of organics Andrew Henderson discusses the co-op's planned expansion of organic milk collection to the South Island in 2028. He explains that strong global demand, supply shortages, and customer requests are driving the move. Henderson also shares insights into the logistics of processing organic milk, highlighting the Stirling site's ability to handle smaller volumes from local farmers. 

    Market Insights | What's propping up red meat prices

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2026 5:43


    AgriHQ analyst Alex Coddington joins the studio this week to talk about red meat markets. Alex unpacks why strong global demand for protein is underpinning sheep and beef values, the trade risks facing Australia, and why New Zealand farmers are comparatively well placed in a shifting global market.

    Full Show | January 16

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2026 33:45


    In this episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast, senior reporter Richard Rennie discusses the challenges and options for farmer burials, while legal hurdles in fruit intellectual property protection are explored. AgriHQ senior analyst Mel Croad provides insights into global beef and lamb trade, highlighting positive market trends. And Matt Hand from New Zealand Merino talks about the revitalisation of the strong wool sector and opportunities for dairy exports to India.News Wrap | Is a farm a final resting place?1:43 – Senior reporter Richard Rennie has taken a look at the logistics of being buried on farm. While it is possible, there are many regulatory hurdles to clear, and some say it could actually lead to anguish for those left behind, should the farm need to be sold.Market Insights | Optimism backed by export value10:06 – The optimism seen at early sales around the country is valid, with export returns for lamb and beef looking to stay strong for the rest of the year, AgriHQ senior analyst Mel Croad says. While there is some volatility in terms of trade access and tariffs, enduring demand from key markets looks set to fuel farmgate returns throughout 2026.Feature | Strong wool contracts a growing trend19:37 – Matt Hands of the NZ Merino Company reports that more than 90% of the strong wool it sold last year was on contract to international brands. And, he says more and more brands are making the move to natural fibers, once they can be assured of steady supply and quality.Final word | Dairy's opportunity in India31:41 – While the proposed FTA with India didn't grant access for the bulk of our dairy exports, it does allow for a lasting partnership to begin. With high-value proteins and infant formula sought after there, why don't we focus on the opportunities we now have, rather than the commodity trade we sought?Follow the Farmers Weekly Podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Send us your feedback or get in touch at farmers.weekly@agrihq.co.nz

    Feature | Strong wool contracts a growing trend

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2026 12:54


    Matt Hand of the NZ Merino Company reports that more than 90% of the strong wool it sold last year was on contract to international brands. And, he says more and more brands are making the move to natural fibers, once they can be assured of steady supply and quality.

    News Wrap | Is a farm a final resting place?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2026 9:11


    Senior reporter Richard Rennie has taken a look at the logistics of being buried on-farm. While it is possible, there are many regulatory hurdles to clear, and some say it could actually lead to anguish for those left behind, should the farm need to be sold.

    Market Insights | Optimism backed by export value

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2026 10:20


    The optimism seen at early sales around the country is valid, with export returns for lamb and beef looking to stay strong for the rest of the year, AgriHQ senior analyst Mel Croad says. While there is some volatility in terms of trade access and tariffs, enduring demand from key markets looks set to fuel farmgate returns throughout 2026.

    Full Show | January 9

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2026 29:45


    This week, Dr Victoria Hatton talks about premium NZ-made food, Neal Wallace discusses a new Farmers Weekly special report on whether the co-op model is still fit for purpose, and Suz Bremner breaks down record ewe prices and renewed confidence in the sheep sector.News Wrap | Our co-operative future?0.02 - Senior reporter Neal Wallace is here to discuss a new special report launched in Farmers Weekly this week. With some of our big co-operative battling for survival in recent years, is the co-op model still fit for purpose? Market Insights | Ewe beauty!07:47 The ewe fair at Stortford Lodge earlier this week saw record prices paid for all ewe classes. AgriHQ senior analyst Suz Bremner says after the steady decline in the sheep flock it's great to see confidence returning to the sector, on the back of consistently high lamb returns.Feature | A premium Christmas dinner15:58 - FoodHQ chief executive Dr Victoria Hatton joins the show to talk about her quest to buy premium, NZ-made food for her family this Christmas. She says quality, sustainability and story were on her shopping list.

    Feature | A premium Christmas dinner

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2026 12:21


    FoodHQ chief executive Dr Victoria Hatton joins the show to talk about her quest to buy premium, NZ-made food for her family this Christmas. She says quality, sustainability and story were on her shopping list.

    Market Insights | Ewe beauty!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2026 9:00


    The ewe fair at Stortford Lodge earlier this week saw record prices paid for all ewe classes. AgriHQ senior analyst Suz Bremner says after the steady decline in the sheep flock it's great to see confidence returning to the sector, on the back of consistently high lamb returns.

    News Wrap | Our co-operative future?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2026 6:57


    Senior reporter Neal Wallace is here to discuss a new special report launched in Farmers Weekly this week. With some of our big co-operative battling for survival in recent years, is the co-op model still fit for purpose? 

    Full Show | December 12

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 12, 2025 28:42


    From big industry shake-ups to the 2026 outlook, Bryan and the Farmers Weekly-AgriHQ panel break down the year in ag, and Federated Farmers explains how new RMA reforms may finally ease the burden of stalled “zombie” consents on farmers.Feature | The Year in Ag: 2025's biggest stories and what's next0:42 – Bryan is joined by senior journalists Neal Wallace and Richard Rennie and AgriHQ senior analysts Suz Bremner and Mel Croad, to reflect on the big news stories of 2025. They cover the big company sell-offs, the changing regulatory landscape and what the export and local markets have in store for 2026.Feds Focus | RMA rethink gets the thumbs up21:06 – Federated Farmers consenting spokesperson Colin Hurst says the government's proposed RMA reforms are a positive step forward. He says the decision to pause consent renewals until after the new regime is in place will also ease the concerns of many farmers who were facing a lengthy and expensive process to comply with a “zombie law”. 

    Feature | The Year in Ag: 2025's biggest stories and what's next

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 11, 2025 20:59


    Bryan is joined by senior journalists Neal Wallace and Richard Rennie and AgriHQ senior analysts Suz Bremner and Mel Croad, to reflect on the big news stories of 2025. They cover the big company sell-offs, the changing regulatory landscape and what the export and local markets have in store for 2026.

    Feds Focus | RMA rethink gets the thumbs up

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 11, 2025 6:43


    Federated Farmers consenting spokesperson Colin Hurst says the government's proposed RMA reforms are a positive step forward. He says the decision to pause consent renewals until after the new regime is in place will also ease the concerns of many farmers who were facing a lengthy and expensive process to comply with a “zombie law”.

    Full Show | December 5

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2025 45:09


    In this episode, AgriHQ's Suz Bremner charts the rise of online livestock bidding. Lorin Clarke shares insights from directing a new documentary on her father, satirist John Clarke aka Fred Dagg. And Federated Farmers' Sandra Faulkner explains why unifying local governance could deliver clearer purpose and greater efficiency nationwide.Market Insights | The tech takeover at the saleyards1:38 – Bryan chats with AgriHQ senior analyst Suz Bremner about the path online bidding platforms have taken – from starting out as a “solution without a problem” to becoming the innovation that kept the lights on during the pandemic. Feature | Not Only Fred Dagg: A BTS lens on the life of John Clarke 10:19 – Palmerston North will host the NZ premiere of a new documentary on the life of John Clarke, the comedian and satirist most famous here for his Fred Dagg character. John's daughter Lorin Clarke, who directed the film, joins the studio to chat about her life with a famously funny father, and the challenges she faced completing the definitive documentary.Feds Focus | Local government reform ‘looks like a winner'32:14 – Federated Farmers local government spokesperson Sandra Faulkner says the government's proposal to disestablish regional councils and bring all local governance into one organisation looks like a winner. As a former councillor at one of our only current unitary councils, Sandra says the clarity of purpose and efficiencies gained provide a blueprint for all regions.

    Feature | Not Only Fred Dagg: A BTS lens on the life of John Clarke

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2025 22:46


    Palmerston North will host the NZ premiere of a new documentary on the life of John Clarke, the comedian and satirist most famous here for his Fred Dagg character. Bryan talks to John's daughter Lorin Clarke, who directed the film, about her life with a famously funny father, and the challenges she faced completing the definitive documentary.

    Market Insights | The tech takeover at the saleyards

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2025 9:28


    Bryan chats with AgriHQ senior analyst Suz Bremner about the path online bidding platforms have taken – from starting out as a “solution without a problem” to becoming the innovation that kept the lights on during the pandemic.

    Feds Focus | Local government reform ‘looks like a winner'

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2025 10:53


    Federated Farmers local government spokesperson Sandra Faulkner says the government's proposal to disestablish regional councils and bring all local governance into one organisation looks like a winner. As a former councillor at one of our only current unitary councils, Sandra says the clarity of purpose and efficiencies gained provide a blueprint for all regions.

    Full Show | November 28

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 28, 2025 26:22


    In this episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast, senior reporter Neal Wallace explores the impact of declining migration and low birth rates in NZ. AgriHQ analyst Alex Coddington breaks down global beef market volatility. Feature guest Dr Pieter-Willem Hendriks discusses regenerative farming trials with McCain's, and Wayne Langford outlines the upcoming roadshow with the PM, addressing key concerns over the RMA and local government reforms.News Wrap | Inside New Zealand's demographic challenge1:30 – Senior reporter Neal Wallace explores the significant role of migration in shaping New Zealand's population growth, highlighting the current decline in migration rates and its implications for future demographics. He talks about the challenges of low birth rates and the concentration of the population in urban areas, particularly Auckland, raising concerns for regional development.Market Insights | Tariffs and turbulence in global beef trade7:24 – AgriHQ analyst Alex Coddington dials in to discuss the current state of the global beef market, focusing on the impact of tariffs on exports, particularly between the US, New Zealand, and Brazil. She unpacks the volatility in beef prices, the competitive landscape, and future trends in pricing as influenced by domestic and international market dynamics.Feature | The regen ag project turning farmland into research beds12.25 – Bryan talks with Lincoln University Department of Agricultural Sciences senior lecturer  Dr Pieter-Willem Hendriks about the university's partnership with McCain's to trial regenerative farming practices. The project is turning farmland into research beds for potatoes, carrots and more, using an eight-year rotation and a three-tier farmer system. The goal: collect real-world data, prove economic viability, and open the gates for farmers and students to see regenerative farming in action.Feds Focus | Driving Change: The PM's rural roadshow explained22:05 – In this segment, Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford discusses the upcoming roadshow with the Prime Minister to engage with farmers across New Zealand. The tour aims to address farmers' concerns, particularly regarding the RMA (Resource Management Act) and regional council changes.

    Feature | The Regen Ag Project Turning Farmland Into Research Beds

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 27, 2025 10:30


    Bryan talks with Lincoln University Department of Agricultural Sciences senior lecturer Dr Pieter-Willem Hendriks about the university's partnership with McCain's to trial regenerative farming practices. The project is turning farmland into research beds for potatoes, carrots and more, using an eight-year rotation and a three-tier farmer system. The goal: collect real-world data, prove economic viability, and open the gates for farmers and students to see regenerative farming in action.

    News Wrap | Inside New Zealand's Demographic Challenge

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 27, 2025 6:41


    Senior reporter Neal Wallace explores the significant role of migration in shaping New Zealand's population growth, highlighting the current decline in migration rates and its implications for future demographics. He tells Bryan about the challenges of low birth rates and the concentration of the population in urban areas, particularly Auckland, raising concerns for regional development.

    Market Insights | Tariffs and Turbulence in Global Beef Trade

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 27, 2025 5:49


    AgriHQ analyst Alex Coddington dials in to discuss the current state of the global beef market, focusing on the impact of tariffs on exports, particularly between the US, New Zealand, and Brazil. She unpacks the volatility in beef prices, the competitive landscape, and future trends in pricing as influenced by domestic and international market dynamics.

    Feds Focus | Driving Change: The PM's Rural Roadshow Explained

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 27, 2025 4:00


    In this segment, Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford discusses the upcoming roadshow with the Prime Minister to engage with farmers across New Zealand. The tour aims to address farmers' concerns, particularly regarding the RMA (Resource Management Act) and regional council changes.

    Full Show | November 17

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2025 30:38


    In this episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast, AgriHQ's Mel Croad outlines trends in key export markets, noting returns may dip slightly over Christmas but stay strong.NZ Veterinary Association's Dr Annabel Harris joins the studio as this week's feature guest to discuss how farmers can help curb antimicrobial resistance. And, Federated Farmers' Colin Hurst reports growing support for a petition to roll over consents during resource law reforms. Markets Wrap | Red meat export markets holding strong1:45 – AgriHQ senior analyst Mel Croad reports on how our key export markets are tracking, and predicts that while farmgate returns might ease a little over Christmas, farmers will enjoy sustained high returns for a while yet.Feature | How farmers can help combat antimicrobial resistance8:24 – NZ Veterinary Association antimicrobial resistance committee chair Dr Annabel Harris tells Bryan how farmers can help combat AMR, and why it is important to ensure the continued efficacy of the antibiotics we rely upon.Feds Focus | Petition launched to end consenting crisis22:08 – Federated Farmers vice-president Colin Hurst says farmers are getting behind the petition urging the government to roll over consents while new resource management laws are enacted. He says the time and money spent on consents right now is a waste, considering change is coming to the framework.The Final Word28:10 – In his Farmers Weekly column this week Keith Woodford shows that sheep and beef farms have a big challenge ahead of them. Return on capital is stubbornly low, and the options to improve it are limited. Is it time for biodiversity credits to promote native plantings over carbon farming?

    Feature | How farmers can help combat antimicrobial resistance

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2025 14:34


    NZ Veterinary Association antimicrobial resistance committee chair Dr Annabel Harris tells Bryan how farmers can help combat AMR, and why it is important to ensure the continued efficacy of the antibiotics we rely upon.

    Markets Wrap | Red meat export markets holding strong

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2025 7:24


    AgriHQ senior analyst Mel Croad reports on how our key export markets are tracking, and predicts that while farmgate returns might ease a little over Christmas, farmers will enjoy sustained high returns for a while yet.

    Feds Focus | Petition launched to end consenting crisis

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2025 6:51


    Federated Farmers vice-president Colin Hurst says farmers are getting behind the petition urging the government to roll over consents while new resource management laws are enacted. He says the time and money spent on consents right now is a waste, considering change is coming to the framework.

    Full Show | November 14

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2025 39:15


    This week on The Farmers Weekly Podcast: Richard Rennie reports from China on Fonterra, Zespri and trade trends; Beef + Lamb NZ's Alan Thomson on global climate talks; and Federated Farmers' Brendan Attrill on new share farming workshops. Plus — could US sheep farmers drag Trump into a lamb tariff fight?News Wrap | China Check-In: Fonterra's future and Zespri's kiwifruit crackdown1:44 – Senior reporter Richard Rennie wraps up his recent visit to China, where he attended one of the biggest trade shows on earth and visited Fonterra's innovation centre in Shanghai. He also headed west to see how Zespri is dealing with the thousands of hectares of illegal Sungold kiwifruit being grown.Feature | NZ's ag strategy: the split-gas initiative explained16:05 – Beef + Lamb NZ chief executive Alan Thomson tells Bryan about how a group of red meat producers reached agreement on a campaign pushing for a split-gas approach to be adopted globally. He says while it is accepted here, that's not the case in other countries.Feds Focus | Workshops for share farmers and contractors28:37 – Federated Farmers share farming chair Brendan Attrill outlines what to expect at the series of workshops Feds is running on getting the best out of share farming and contracting. The workshops are being held over the coming weeks around the country.The Final Word36:30 – American sheep farmers have taken aim at our sector, asking the Trump administration to increase tariffs on the lamb we sell there. At first glance one would think Trump doesn't have time for what is, in the scheme of things, a small quibble. But with US farmers doing it tough and sky-high prices at the checkout, is the president about to turn his attention to agriculture?

    Feature | NZ's ag strategy: the split-gas initiative explained

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2025 13:22


    Beef + Lamb NZ chief executive Alan Thomson tells Bryan about how a group of red meat producers reached agreement on a campaign pushing for a split-gas approach to be adopted globally. He says while it is accepted here, that's not the case in other countries.

    News Wrap | China Check-In: Fonterra's future and Zespri's kiwifruit crackdown

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2025 15:11


    Senior reporter Richard Rennie wraps up his recent visit to China, where he attended one of the biggest trade shows on earth and visited Fonterra's innovation centre in Shanghai. He also headed west to see how Zespri is dealing with the thousands of hectares of illegal Sungold kiwifruit being grown.

    Feds Focus | Workshops for share farmers and contractors

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2025 8:43


    Federated Farmers share farming chair Brendan Attrill outlines what to expect at the series of workshops Feds is running on getting the best out of share farming and contracting. The workshops are being held over the coming weeks around the country.

    Full Show | November 7

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2025 28:15


    (00:00:00) Full Show | November 7 (00:01:29) Navigating the Busy Store Cattle Market (00:06:39) High Peak Brothers Explore Farming in Argentina (00:19:39) Eradicating TB: Lessons from New Zealand's Past (00:25:51) The Final Word In this episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast, High Peak's Simon and Hamish Guild share lessons from Argentina, while Feds' Karl Dean discusses the new bovine TB plan and AgriHQ's Fiona Quarrie reports on cattle sales.Market Insights | Navigating the Busy Store Cattle Market1:30 – AgriHQ analyst Fiona Quarrie reports on the recent cattle sales at Matawhero, Stortford Lodge and Feilding, where large numbers of cattle have been sold as eastern regions dry out. Fiona says there's more to come, and while prices have been back on recent months, there's still good value for vendors.Feature | High Peak Brothers Explore Farming in Argentina6:40 – Bryan catches up with Simon and Hamish Guild of High Peak Station, who have just returned from a study tour of Argentina made possible by their win in the Ballance Farm Environment Awards. They say there's a lot to admire about the way Argentinians grow and eat red meat.Feds Focus | Eradicating TB: Lessons from New Zealand's Past19:40 – Federated Farmers biosecurity spokesperson Karl Dean says the new plan to eradicate bovine TB is good in theory, but farmers have bad memories of previous attempts to stamp it out, and this time it needs to be enacted with care and communication. The Final Word25:52 – Rural sports are a big deal in places like the United States, as Jack Jordan's recent woodchopping world championship win showed. But it's the next generation that could discover a passion for food production through events like the recent Clash of the Colleges that really shows us that rural sports are more than just a game.

    Feature | High Peak Brothers Explore Farming in Argentina

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2025 13:49


    Bryan catches up with Simon and Hamish Guild of High Peak Station, who have just returned from a study tour of Argentina made possible by their win in the Ballance Farm Environment Awards. They say there's a lot to admire about the way Argentinians grow and eat red meat.

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