Government outlines its plans for a return to sea exports, Halter tops charts in Deloitte’s fastest growing businesses, and Tairāwhiti farmer takes the reins at Rural Women New Zealand.

Welcome to Proud Country's Early Bird - The top things you need to know that impact rural New Zealand delivered to you by 5am, because who doesn’t need better chat beyond the weather!

 

Government outlines its plans for a return to sea exports

The government is continuing it’s move to reinstate sea-based livestock exports, with Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard announcing comprehensive plans to revive a trade worth nearly four hundred million dollars in 2022.

Key changes will involve amending the Animal Welfare Act, introducing stronger oversight mechanisms to protect livestock during maritime transport. The government promises extensive consultation, including targeted discussions with industry experts and welfare advocates throughout November and December.

Farmers can anticipate additional export channels, with the government emphasising these changes will provide crucial income opportunities. The marine livestock export will specifically focus on trade opportunities, not animals destined for immediate slaughter.

The proposed legislation includes mandatory requirements for exporters. These include developing comprehensive animal welfare plans, identifying potential risks, and managing livestock care throughout the entire transportation process. A detailed discussion document will be released next year, allowing public input into these critical regulations.

A Select Committee review is planned for next year with aims to create a robust framework that balances economic benefits with stringent animal protection standards.

Positive signals emerge for New Zealand ag exports

Markets are showing promising signs of recovery and opportunity as we enter the 2024-25 export season. Sheepmeat, dairy, and beef sectors are presenting a mixed but largely encouraging outlook.

In the sheepmeat market, export values continue climbing, with lamb reaching $11.83 per kilogram. However, processing volumes have dropped sixteen percent compared to last year. Farmers should anticipate lamb processing numbers potentially falling below seventeen million head this season.

Dairy production remains strong with New Zealand's milk output surging 4.1 percent in September, with a 5.2 percent increase in milksolids. This performance represents one of the strongest seasonal starts in over a decade when combined with Australian production.

Beef markets are experiencing a gradual price correction after recent record highs. While prices are expected to ease through summer, they remain above five-year averages. Export volumes show interesting variations, with significant growth to markets like the United States, Japan, and Canada.

International markets are offering mixed opportunities. China remains a critical market, particularly for mutton exports ahead of Chinese New Year. The European and United Kingdom markets show promising signs due to low domestic inventory.

 

Halter tops charts in Deloitte’s fastest growing businesses

Ag tech has claimed the top spot in New Zealand's business innovation rankings, with Halter leading the Deloitte Fast 50 index for 2024. The rural technology company achieved an extraordinary growth rate of fifteen hundred and thirty-nine percent.

Halter's revolutionary cow collar and management app has transformed farming practices across New Zealand, Australia, and the United States. The technology enables farmers to virtually manage livestock, monitoring health and location around the clock.

This year's Fast 50 index reveals the remarkable resilience of New Zealand's entrepreneurial spirit. The top five fastest-growing businesses span diverse sectors, from technology to healthcare and travel services.

Key factors driving business growth include expanded marketing efforts, entry into new markets, and strategic expansion. 

The results showcase New Zealand's entrepreneurial talent, with businesses across various sectors demonstrating remarkable adaptability and innovation.

Tairāwhiti farmer takes the reins at Rural Women New Zealand

Rural Women New Zealand has appointed Sandra Matthews, a prominent Tairāwhiti sheep and beef farmer, as the organisation's new National President, bringing a wealth of agricultural and governance experience to the role.

Matthews and her husband Ian manage Te Kopae Station, a 536-hectare operation near Gisborne. Her professional background spans financial consulting and agri-business coaching, complementing her extensive farming expertise. Her governance credentials include leadership roles with Beef + Lamb NZ, Rural Communities Trust, and previous chair of the Tairāwhiti Rural Advisory Group.

Stepping into the role as the organisation approaches its 100-year milestone, Matthews is clear about her vision. She recognizes the critical challenges facing rural communities - from isolation and extreme weather to economic volatility and limited service access. Her approach centres on empowering rural women and families to navigate these complex landscapes.

The transition marks the conclusion of Gill Naylor's four-year term as National President. Naylor's leadership has been instrumental in positioning the organisation to meet evolving rural community needs, leaving a significant legacy of support and advocacy.

 

Central Otago prepares for bumper cherry crop

Central Otago's cherry growers are brimming with cautious optimism as the region stands on the cusp of potentially breaking national export records. The agricultural landscape has dramatically transformed since the 2017-18 season, with cherry tree numbers nearly doubling across the region.

Currently producing around 90% of New Zealand's cherry exports, local growers like Kris Robb from the Central Otago Fruit Growers Association predict export volumes could reach an impressive 10,000 tonnes. Recent trade data shows fruit export values more than doubling from $243 million to over $500 million in just twelve months.

International competition remains a consideration, with Chile leading cherry marketing efforts in Asian markets. However, local growers view this as an opportunity, recognizing growing global appreciation for high-quality cherry produce.

 

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