All articles
Capturing the premiums
The Harper’s focus on creating an inter-generational business model, with built-in niche products in partnership with suppliers, has diversified their farming business across many value chains. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp, Photos Emmily Harmer Photography, Headwaters and Stoney Creek.
Good news for New Zealand lamb from Australia
Australia’s flock moves to maintain heavy liquidation, pointing to tight supplies from 2025 to 2027, which foreshadows well for the New Zealand lamb industry. Words Simon Quilty.
Farmer-led mineral focus group in face of drench resistance
Drench resistance has been a ticking time bomb for a while. Veterinarian Erin Riley first saw the signs of it in the UK before she moved to New Zealand, but was hopeful that the evolution of combination drenches would buy more time. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.
Green shoots emerging after tough season
Farm gate returns for lamb and mutton have passed the bottom of the latest downward cycle, but farmers can expect only small increases for the 2024-25 season ahead. Words Tony Leggett.
Unlocking greater value from Taste Pure Nature
Taste Pure Nature is now in the hands of New Zealand exporters to take the lead in advancing the brand and activity programme designed to raise awareness and drive preference for New Zealand grass-fed beef and lamb. Words Nathan Guy.
Wool price rises as exporters caught short
A more accurate picture of the impact on wool production from the loss of land to pines and shift to shedding sheep will be clear in December-January when shearing gets underway and wool starts arriving in stores around the country. Words Tony Leggett.
Low-methane sheep trial gains momentum
A survey of stud breeders carried out in 2023 showed 40 percent were willing to consider or already use methane amongst their genetic selections. This has been reflected in the number of stud breeders who have taken advantage of the measurements offered through Cool Sheep. Words Sandra Taylor.
Wool colour crucial to price
A report from the Campaign for Wool NZ Trust chairman Ryan Cosgrove shows colour is the most important attribute of strong wool, accounting for 48% of the variability in price at auction. Words Tony Leggett.
A Game of Two Halves
When 70% of the workload in running sheep is generated by the wool they grow, it is unsurprising farmers are exploring new breeds that grow less fibre or naturally shed it completely. Tony Leggett investigates two farm businesses on different sides of the field. Words Tony Leggett.