Premium Articles
Rising shearing costs force a rethink of wool’s value
The question is no longer “What is wool worth?” but rather, “What does wool cost?” Independent modelling of a Central Hawke's Bay case study farm suggests a fully shedding flock could lift earnings by NZ$116,000 a year and argues most farmers are underestimating what wool production actually costs them. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.
Should commercial sheep farmers genotype their ewes?
Anna Vaughan’s Kellogg report shows there is genuine appetite among commercial sheep farmers for genotyping, but concludes no single benefit yet justifies the cost. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.
How breeders created SX Sheep, a footrot-resistant fine wool
History shows us that when a group of Kiwi farmers put their heads together, almost anything is possible. Words Mark Ferguson.
Delaying ram mating a week can lift lamb growth rates
With the outlook for lamb positive, Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Growing Great Lambs workshops outline ways farmers can maximise lamb growth rates to make the most of the strong returns. Words Sandra Taylor.
Summer forage crops can finish lambs at 300g a day
Strong returns for lamb, increasingly widespread drench resistance and the prospect of a hot, dry summer all build a strong case for establishing specialist lamb finishing forages this spring. Words Sandra Taylor.
Ballance trials pasture spray that cuts parasite larvae
A new liquid fertiliser with the ability to deliver a knockout blow to larvae on pasture could soon be the latest tool in the fight against drench resistance on New Zealand farms. Words Rebecca Greaves.
Unlocking the new Fonterra Farm Insights Report
Unlocking the new Fonterra Farm Insights Report Full Webinar hosted by the Institute of Rural Professionals.
What farmers want from politicians before the 2026 election
Farmers’ underlying calls for the next incoming government are longer term strategies that are agreed and locked into the future, immune to changes in government and more autonomy to get on and run their businesses. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp & Tony Leggett.
Pita Alexander’s 30 life lessons for farmers
Words of wisdom for New Zealanders setting themselves up for a successful life between family and farm, but more so a happy retirement. Words Pita Alexander, Alexanders.
Roaring for farmers
New Zealand fills stadiums for its rugby players but stays quiet about the farmers doing world-class work in its own paddocks. Michelle and Tony Roberts took home the country’s highest honour in sustainable farming and they think it is time the sector learned to cheer louder. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp, Photos Alan Gibson.