Wellington sheep and beef farmer Hamish Best represented New Zealand in the 2024 Global Sheep Forum Next Generation programme earlier this year. Collaboration between countries was a major theme of the forum. Words Hamish Best.

When used in combination with ultrasound scanning CT scanning can almost double the rate of genetic progress in intramuscular fat compared to using ultrasound alone. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp Photos Dr. Neville Jopson.

New Zealand agriculture’s past is marked by several major breakthroughs that delivered substantial gains in productivity behind the farm gate. Tony Leggett explores where the sector’s next productivity boost will come from and finds success will require a leap of faith for many.

Unruly and wild screeds of data in spreadsheets to maintain and make sense of breeding decisions is the reason Hawke’s Bay deer farmer Richard Hilson now swears by Deer Select. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

Deferred grazing to rejuvenate pastures has been a no-cost alternative to a summer regrassing programme for Waikato farmer Bill Garland, and he believes the practice could help farmers in their quest to become better environmental managers, as well being light on the pocket. Words Rebecca Greaves Photos Christine Cornege.

An online survey of 518 people was conducted between December 2023 and January 2024 with those who work or live on farms to understand their insurance needs, perceptions and behaviours.

No farm business would have missed the significant increase in the cost of insurance in the past year. Tony Leggett investigates what’s behind the increase and the options for reducing the cost in the future.

Read Country-Wide Summer 2024 online here. Country-Wide is New Zealand’s only dedicated pastoral and arable farming magazine, available on subscription.

Once spring arrives, we all have itching feet to get the barbecue out and entertain. Invitations to the neighbours for a few chops and beverages seem appealing as we get out of winter mode. But you can’t turn up empty handed. If you are like me, you always like to take something despite being told ‘just bring yourselves’. This slice is perfect for that occasion. Great to have as a sweet treat at the end of the night, and any leftovers can be left at your host’s house to munch on the following day. Words & Photos Philippa Cameron.

Perched on dramatic coastal cliffs with sweeping vistas over the Cook Strait and the South Island, Boomrock is the ultimate experience venue, a unique and awe-inspiring place to create lifelong memories. It’s also the legacy of the Eastwick family, who created longevity through diversification. Word Sarah Perriam-Lampp.