Farmers Weekly In Focus

In this week's podcast: senior reporters Neal Wallace and Richard Rennie unpack forestry's impact on rural communities, while AgriHQ analyst Alex Coddington outlines strong store lamb demand and margins. Federated Farmers Otago president Luke Kane also joins to discuss his recent environmental award win.

Senior reporters Neal Wallace and Richard Rennie join the show to discuss the new Farmers Weekly special report, The Rural Cost of Forestry Conversion, which looks at the growth of exotic forestry in the high country. They've talked to concerned farmers, forestry companies and academics who have studied the impact forestry has had on several communities.

AgriHQ analyst Alex Coddington gives an update on the store lamb market. She says strong store lamb demand, driven by rain and tight supply, should deliver good margins when lambs go to processing.

Federated Farmers Otago president Luke Kane joins the show to discuss his recent win in the Otago Ballance Farm Environment Awards. He and wife Nicole continue a fine tradition for Feds members in the south, with the Kane's being the seventh winner in the past 20 years.

(00:00:00) Full Show | April 10 (00:01:33) Young cattle demand drives market surge (00:07:35) Hurrell looks back as Fonterra eyes future growth (00:23:35) Dog law investigation underway In this week's episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast, AgriHQ analyst Suz Bremner discusses the strong demand for young cattle is driving record prices and buyer confidence. Fonterra CEO Miles Hurrell reflects on the co-op's performance and future direction ahead of his departure. And Federated Farmers' Colin Hannah highlights the need for farmer input into dog law reforms to protect livestock and working dogs.

Fonterra chief executive Miles Hurrell joins the show to reflect on the co-op's interim result, the Lactalis sale, and on his term at the top. Hurrell has signaled he will step down soon and says the co-op is primed for its next phase.

AgriHQ senior analyst Suz Bremner says the South Island calf sales are following a similar trend to the weaner sales in the north, with record prices being paid.

Colin Hannah of Federated Farmers in Northland says the investigation into our current laws around dog ownership need input from the farming community. Feral and unmanaged dogs pose a risk to people and livestock, and Colin says any law changes need to take account of how working dogs are managed.

This week's podcast covers Silver Fern Farms' return to profit and growing calls for an inquiry into vegetable processing closures and food resilience, featuring senior reporter Neal Wallace and Green Party ag spokesperson Steve Abel.

Green Party agriculture spokesperson Steve Abel discusses his call for an inquiry into McCain and Heinz Wattie's closures, highlighting concerns over food resilience and local production.

Senior reporter Neal Wallace discusses Silver Fern Farms' annual result, which reveals a turn to profitability after a loss last year.

(00:00:00) Full Show | March 27 (00:02:09) Aussie farmers up against global forces (00:07:10) Uncertain future for vegetable and grain growers (00:15:40) Foreign investors back in the game (00:25:31) Feds submits to Health and Safety Amendment Bill This week on Farmers Weekly Podcast, we unpack the mounting global and local pressures shaping agriculture. AgriHQ's Alex Coddington breaks down turmoil in Australia's red meat sector following a controversial EU trade deal, while Central Hawke's Bay mayor Will Foley raises alarm over the future of NZ vegetable and grain production after major processing pullbacks. We also explore renewed interest from foreign investors in New Zealand's primary industries with Findex's Hayden Dillon, and Federated Farmers weighs in on proposed health and safety law changes impacting the sector.

Central Hawke's Bay mayor Will Foley says he's deeply disappointed by recent moves from McCain and Heinz-Wattie's to scale back or halt vegetable processing in New Zealand. With around 9,000 hectares of production in the region, Foley believes it may be time for a broader conversation about how the country's food industry is structured.

Word on the street is that international investors have their eye on New Zealand's primary sectors, says Hayden Dillon, managing partner – agribusiness at Findex.

AgriHQ analyst Alex Coddington discusses the current state of Australia's red meat sector, as the industry reels from signing what has been described as one of the worst FTAs in history with the European Union.

Federated Farmers health and safety spokesperson David Birkett says while they support the overall direction of the new H&S regulations, there are some aspects specific to farming that need to be addressed.

(00:00:00) Full Show | March 20 (00:01:42) Middle East conflict drives rising costs for NZ farmers (00:07:55) HortNZ outlines election priorities for sector growth (00:21:24) Federated Farmers pushes back on Gore District Plan concerns In this episode, AgriHQ's Mel Croad explains the impacts of rising fuel and fertiliser costs are adding pressure on farmers as global conflict disrupts supply chains. HortNZ CEO Kate Scott outlines its election priorities and Federated Farmers raises concerns about the proposed Gore District Plan and unclear consenting rules.

Horticulture NZ chief executive Kate Scott chats about the election manifesto the industry group has just released, which includes the key issues it hopes the next government will address.

AgriHQ senior analyst Mel Croad discusses the influence that the war in the Middle East is having behind the farmgate and in our export markets.

Federated Farmers Southland president Jason Herrick is standing firm despite being labelled a scaremonger for his opposition to the new Gore District Plan.

This week: AgriHQ insight as feeder calves fetch top dollar amid record beef prices, investment advisor Mark Butterworth weighs farmer options for the Fonterra payout, and Federated Farmers' dairy council outlines key priorities.AgriHQ Insight | Feeder calves fetch strong prices as beef market surges1: 38 – Feeder calf sales are underway nationwide. AgriHQ analyst Fiona Quarrie explains why record beef prices are lifting demand and prices for young cattle.Feature | Fonterra payout: strategies for farmers and investors7:41 – What will farmers do with the Fonterra payout? Craigs Investment Partners adviser Mark Butterworth shares what he's hearing from farming families weighing debt, reinvestment and new investments.Feds Focus | Feds dairy council sets agenda20:28 – Feds dairy section chair Karl Dean joins the show to reflect on a recent dairy council meeting. New opportunities in dairy-beef, engaging with the animal welfare regulatory update, and further opportunities for sharefarmers were all identified as key issues.

What will farmers do with the Fonterra payout? Craigs Investment Partners adviser Mark Butterworth shares what he's hearing from farming families weighing debt, reinvestment and new investments.

Feeder calf sales are underway nationwide. AgriHQ analyst Fiona Quarrie explains why record beef prices are lifting demand and prices for young cattle.

Feds dairy section chair Karl Dean joins the show to reflect on last week's meeting of the dairy council. New opportunities in dairy-beef, engaging with the animal welfare regulatory update, and further opportunities for sharefarmers were all identified as key issues.

This special bonus episode of the Farmers Weekly NZ podcast explores the significance of the Rural Woman of the Year Award and the vital role women play in farming communities.Farmers Weekly NZ publishers and award sponsors Dean and Cushla Williamson join Bryan in the studio to talk about the importance of recognising the often-unsung heroes of rural life: women who quietly support and uplift others without seeking recognition.

In this episode, AgriHQ senior analyst Suz Bremner discusses record prices at North Island weaner fairs and the demand behind them. Rangitīkei MP Suze Redmayne explains proposed KiwiSaver changes aimed at helping rural workers into property, while Federated Farmers' Danielle Hovmand outlines why the sector has pushed for the reforms and what they could mean for young farmers.AgriHQ Insight | Young cattle demand record prices1:38 – Weaner fairs are in full swing across the North Island and AgriHQ senior analyst Suz Bremner says vendors are banking record prices. Sales at Stortford Lodge have led the way, but other regions are also cashing in as buyers look to capitalise on strong schedules.Feature | Unlocking property investment for rural workers10:06 – Rangitīkei MP Suze Redmayne joins the show to talk about the proposed changes to KiwiSaver aimed at helping farm workers and service personnel invest in property, the political process behind it, and its broader economic implications.Feds Focus | Feds celebrates KiwiSaver change18:27 – Danielle Hovmand, Feds Waikato sharefarmer chair, has been a leading voice in the push to get changes made to the KiwiSaver rules allowing young farmers to use their investment to buy a house or farm.

Rangitīkei MP Suze Redmayne joins the show to talk about the proposed changes to KiwiSaver aimed at helping farm workers and service personnel invest in property, the political process behind it, and its broader economic implications.

Weaner fairs are in full swing across the North Island and AgriHQ senior analyst Suz Bremner says vendors are banking record prices.

Danielle Hovmand, Feds Waikato sharefarmer chair, has been a leading voice in the push to get changes made to the KiwiSaver rules allowing young farmers to use their investment to buy a house or farm.

In this episode: Mainland sale boosts rural property prospects, Pāmu's performance unpacked, and a preview of the high country field day. News Wrap | Mainland deal has real estate sector primed1:42 – In this episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast, senior reporter Neal Wallace joins the show to talk about the Mainland sale, and the impact the cash injection will have on rural communities. Real estate agents are expecting an increase in volume as cashed-up farmers look to secure succession plans, expand operations, or exit the industry. Feature | What's powering Pāmu's performance?6:56 – Pāmu chief executive Mark Leslie tells Bryan that the state farmer's strong half-year result is down to a mix of high commodity prices and the organisation's strategy of increasing efficiency, productivity and excellence. Feds Focus | High country on show in March21:20 – Federated Farmers is hosting a high country field day on March 27, and Mark Simpson says they're expecting more than 250 farmers and key politicians to attend. He says it will be an opportunity for decision makers to see some of the challenges high country farmers face, while also getting a lesson on the changing face of farming in the hills.The Final Word | Eating our way to better health26:55 – The recent Underground Festival hosted a political panel where MPs from across the spectrum were united in their support for healthy, unprocessed food. Can they work together to ensure that the food we produce so well not only nourishes global consumers, but the people of Aotearoa as well?

Pāmu chief executive Mark Leslie tells Bryan that the state farmer's strong half-year result is down to a mix of high commodity prices and the organisation's strategy of increasing efficiency, productivity and excellence.

In this episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast, senior reporter Neal Wallace joins the show to talk about the Mainland sale, and the impact the cash injection will have on rural communities. Real estate agents are expecting an increase in volume as cashed-up farmers look to secure succession plans, expand operations, or exit the industry.

Federated Farmers is hosting a high country field day on March 27, and Mark Simpson says they're expecting more than 250 farmers and key politicians to attend. He says it will be an opportunity for decision makers to see some of the challenges high country farmers face, while also getting a lesson on the changing face of farming in the hills.

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

(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.

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.

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.

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.

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 

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.

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.

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.