News
Post-harvest horticulture workforce will need to develop new skills, report finds
As new technologies see the horticulture sector become increasingly automated, its post-harvest workforce will need to develop new skills.
How to weather the great grass shutdown in the south
The gloom and wet of winter is especially challenging for Southland's farms where pasture can go for nearly a third of the year without growth.
Should we be farming weka?
That's the focus of a recent research paper that looked at how commercialising native species might help with conservation.
Shoe-box sized device helps growers detect diseases
A new device is helping growers detect diseases out of thin air.
'Learning along the way' unlocks higher profit on farm
Dual land use, with pigs and cattle grazing under solar panels, has unlocked new opportunities for Waitangi Farm in Waiuku. Mostly importantly say Nigel and Merrin Upchurch, it aligns with their…
Rural recycling on the rise
Agrecovery has seen huge growth in the 20 years it's been operating, with those in the primary sector looking for new ways to recycle on-farm plastic.
NZ no longer in a state of 'peak tractor'
New Zealand has fallen from 'peak tractor' with bigger machinery, rising on-farm costs and farmers becoming more efficient driving sales down.
Union warns against meat self-inspection plans
A union says potential plans to privatise New Zealand's meat inspection service could put food quality and safety at risk.
Advocates renew calls to end colony-cage egg farms
After the ban of conventional cages, producers had the option to move to colony cages, barns and free-range systems.
Could spiders help manage pests on New Zealand's farms?
It's been estimated that spiders consume up to 800 million tons of (mostly) bugs globally per year.
Chainsaw drone could tackle risky trees
The unmaned vehicle has the potential to make trimming trees in difficult areas safer and easier.
Farmers still rushing to convert land to forestry - report
Whole farm-to-forest conversions continue, according to a new report released by Beef and Lamb New Zealand.
Soil to salads: Scientists issue warning over microplastics
A new study has stressed that agricultural soils now hold around 23 times more microplastics than oceans or waterways.
The small town hunting competition that's helping save lives
The annual Pongaroar hunting competition helps hunters and farmers tackle growing pest numbers while raising funds for the rescue helicopter.
What's protein, why do we need it, and how do you get more?
An expert explains the secret power of protein.
Thieves target Bay of Plenty orchards for scrap metal
Sheet metal from outbuildings and copperwires from frost fans are among the things stolen.
'Don't go far enough': Industry unimpressed by government targets
The targets come after a review found the approval process wasn't always allowing timely access to the products.
The business turning kiwifruit into a leather alternative
KiwiLeather Innovations aims to repurpose the 50,000 tonnes of kiwifruit rejected in New Zealand each year.
Preserving native bush and local history on the 'perfect farm'
Former South-Taranaki mayor Ross Dunlop has led the way with conservation efforts on his family's dairy farm.
Raw sewage dumping threatens oyster farmers' businesses
Dumping of raw sewage into the Mahurangi Harbour has led to frequent restrictions on their ability to harvest.
Carpet maker Bremworth reverses wool only policy
It will soon start making synthetic carpets again.
Gap between people and sheep rapidly closing
Rise in pine forests driving the decline in sheep, industry claims.
Renewed calls for cat bylaws as feral numbers surge
The number of feral cats is estimated to be double the number of pet cats. Audio
New rules to limit farm to forestry conversions - but does loophole remain?
Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay announced new legislation will be introduced later this year.
'Quite confronting': Survey reveals financial, mental health issues among contract milkers
Survey organisers said the results were 'disappointing', but 'not surprising'.
