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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.

With a goal of Predator Free 2050, it can seem ambitious with only 25 years to go. Is it a fantasy, or can it become our reality? In this episode we catch up with different groups working to tackle pests and weeds across New Zealand, from animals like ferrets, goats and possums, to weeds like wilding conifers.
Hear from Pete Oswald from Central Otago Wilding Conifer Control Group; Mike Perry from DOC’s new National Wild Animals Management Programme; and James Ross, Professor of Wildlife Management at Lincoln University.

New Zealand’s sheep meat exports continue to be affected by the weaker Chinese economy, and at the time of writing, we do not anticipate a recovery in this market for some time. Words Sirma Karapeeva

A panel of farmers recently shared their personal commitment to sustainability and quality products while taking a long-term, intergenerational view on a recent panel at the 2024 Red Meat Sector Conference in Wellington. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp Photo Beef + Lamb New Zealand.

WORDS Sandra Taylor, PHOTOS Beef + Lamb New Zealand.

He upset ram breeders but was the greatest contributor to sheep reproductive rates. He fought for the establishment of AgResearch’s Invermay and then fought to keep it. He imported new breeds to improve meat production, fertility and introduced sheep milking in the face of many critics. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.