Early Bird I Tuesday May 14th 2024

Consensus over a new season farmgate milk price over eight dollars, HortNZ encourages members to vote in upcoming referendum and Manawatu farmers scoop top gongs at New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards. 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! Consensus over a new season farmgate milk price over eight dollars Dairy market analysts are in agreement about their forecasts for the farmgate milk price in the upcoming 2025 season, with predictions generally above $8.  Analysts from major banks and the SGX-NZX dairy insights team have projected a range between $8.35 to $8.50 for the farmgate milk price. Fonterra is expected to release its own forecast range around the end of the month, which is anticipated to be conservative, ranging from $7.30 to $8.50, with a midpoint of $7.90. The recovery in Global Dairy Trade prices observed during April and May has set a positive trajectory for the new dairy season. Based on the prices from the May 7 Global Dairy Trade for forward deliveries, the spot milk price was reported at $9.25, reflecting current dairy commodity prices.  Other forecasters, including ANZ, ASB, Rabobank, and Westpac, have provided similar forecasts ranging from $8.35 to $8.50. Forecast models used by analysts consider various factors such as supply and demand dynamics, weather forecasts, forward prices, foreign exchange rates, and historical patterns.  The release of Fonterra's forecast at the end of May will provide further insights for the market and dairy farmers. 2. NZPork is advocating for a revision of the NPS for highly productive land policy Concerns raised by NZPork regarding the interpretation of the National Policy Statement for Highly Productive Land (NPS-HPL) are highlighting the importance of clarifying the policy's intent to protect agricultural activities, including pig farming, on productive land. The NPS-HPL was designed to safeguard highly productive land from encroaching urbanisation and rural fragmentation, aiming to prioritise its use for primary production purposes. However, NZPork is concerned that the current interpretation of the policy excludes certain types of farming, specifically pig farming, from land considered suitable for agriculture. NZPork is advocating for a revision of the policy to ensure that it aligns with its original intent of protecting highly productive land for all types of primary production, including pig farming.  The organisation is stressing the need for clarity to prevent barriers for new pig farm establishments or expansions, particularly concerning compliance with future welfare regulations. NZPork's efforts to engage with the government and advocate for policy adjustments reflect the industry's commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and the preservation of productive land for food production. 3. HortNZ levy referendum Growers in New Zealand are being urged to participate in an upcoming levy referendum that will determine the continuation of Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) and its vital work within the sector. The levy, paid by all commercial growers on the sale of locally grown fruit and vegetables, is the primary source of funding for HortNZ's initiatives.  Eligible growers have received a levy proposal document and voting papers, with voting set to open from midnight tonight. If renewed, the levy would be in effect for six years starting from the expiry of the current levy order in March 2025, with the proposed rate remaining at the maximum of 15 cents per $100 of sales. HortNZ President Barry O’Neil says it’s important that growers' participate in the referendum, citing the critical role of HortNZ in representing over 4,200 commercial fruit and vegetable growers in New Zealand.  HortNZ Chief Executive Nadine Tunley shared insights from earlier consultation meetings, indicating strong support for the organisation's work among growers. She says feedback from growers underscored an alignment on key priorities, including water, climate change, and food security, Growers can cast their votes online or via postal ballot between today and June 14, ensuring their active involvement in shaping the future of Horticulture New Zealand and the wider horticultural industry. 4. NZ Dairy Industry Award Winners announced  James and Debbie Stewart from Dairylands in Manawatū have taken out the 2024 Fonterra Responsible Dairying Award during the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards Gala dinner.  They were also presented with the John Wilson Memorial Trophy, recognising their outstanding leadership in sustainability within the dairy industry. Michael Hide, head panellist of the selection committee, emphasised the Stewarts' exemplary dedication to responsible dairying. He noted their passion, professionalism, and leadership within the industry, coupled with their strong commitment to giving back to the local community. Meanwhile The 2024 New Zealand Share Farmers of the Year, are Will Hinton and Kali Rangiawha from Manawatū, and were recognised for their exceptional partnership and dedication to sustainability within the dairy industry. Will Hinton, originally from the UK, eventually settled in New Zealand, working as a farm consultant and data analyst for over two years before entering dairy farming. Kali Rangiawha discovered her passion for dairy farming while relief milking to fund her university studies. She has progressed through the industry from farm assistant to her current role as contract milkers on a 350-cow farm in Halcombe. They demonstrated proactive efforts to address environmental challenges on their farm, such as discovering and planning to plant a creek to prevent nutrient loss. 5. Rabobank’s Ag Pathways program Twenty-nine young farmers from Otago, Southland, and Canterbury recently participated in Rabobank’s Ag Pathways program, a two-day event aimed at enhancing their business management and planning skills.  Organised by Rabobank’s Lower South Island Client Council, it was the seventh edition of the program, and over 150 young farmers from the region have benefited from it since its inception in 2015. The latest edition, held in late April at the Croydon Lodge in Gore, covered a wide range of topics, including personality testing, financial skills, succession planning, people leadership, and business planning.  Attendees also had the opportunity to interact with members of Rabobank’s Lower South Island Client Council, who shared valuable knowledge and perspectives on various topics. As a follow-up to the program, participants will reconvene in June to present their business plans based on the insights gained, ensuring immediate application of newly acquired knowledge and fostering connections among attendees. The success of the South Island event has led to the expansion of Ag Pathways into the North Island. Following the inaugural North Island program in 2023, a second edition is scheduled for June this year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.