Planning for tough times

Hill country farmers face the prospect of potential losses in the coming year. By Rebecca Greaves.


SFF targets premium market

When market conditions improve, prices should rebound faster for Silver Fern Farms because of its close relationships with customers committed through premium…


Agyields database seeks users

The Agyields database - a central library housing all of New Zealand’s historic and future pasture and crop growth and yield data - has come to fruition thanks…


Online checks for soil moisture

A demonstration site is allowing farmers to check out what moisture probe readings look like on provider companies’ software platforms.


Aussie market collapsing while China weak

China’s consumer confidence has slumped, putting pressure on a market flooded with Australian sheep meat ahead of drought. By Tony Leggett.


Soil nitrogen to reduce maize growing costs

Farmers growing maize can save money in nitrogen (N) costs as well as make environmental gains by making better use of plant-available N naturally present in…


Challenge in China

Northern Hemisphere Christmas and Chinese New Year celebrations are likely to influence the direction of lamb, mutton and beef pricing, Tony Leggett reports.


Potential for native shrubs

Benefits of native species on hill country farms, highlighting their effectiveness in Cyclone Gabrielle were demonstrated at a field day at Massey’s Riverside…


Farming under pressure

Balancing the books while costs spiral and prices plunge is going to put lots of farmers under pressure.


Finding forever homes

When working dogs get too old to work the hills, or just don’t want to, they need a new home. Rebecca Greaves reports.