Chemical resistance in pesticides was a hot topic at the Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Science (NZIAHS) symposium, recently held at Lincoln University, where scientists discussed the topic of nature fighting back. Words Tom Ward.

A special horse trek each year teaches young people more than just how to ride a horse. Members of the Stephenson family gather and ride across the whenua that binds them. Words Rebecca Greaves, Photos Vicky Simpson.

Body condition has a significant influence on the reproductive performance of breeding cows. The most value can be generated by reducing the number of low conditioned cows in the herd.
Words Sandra Taylor.

As calf weaning gets underway, Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is encouraging farmers to consider yard weaning as a way to get calves off to a great start. Words Sandra Taylor.

Kathryn Wright, a registered counsellor, guides us through the ‘dropping anchor’ exercise; a technique to help deal with times of overwhelm. Words Kathryn Wright.

Through a century of challenges, including droughts, floods, wars, economic upheavals and shifting consumer tastes, the Webb family has steadfastly remained on their orchard near Cromwell. For them to continue to grow fruit in the same location they face a new generation of challenges including urban sprawl and succession. Words & photos Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

The Street family demonstrate how their farm is part of an inter-generational portfolio, future-proofed through diversification. Their story inspires how succession by growing rather than dividing an asset base can be done. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp, photos Stephen Barker. 

New Zealand-funded investment in horticulture has been on the rise. Off-shore capital will be needed though to reach big export growth goals. Words Andrew Watters.

As growers move from blocks near urban centres to the plains, Seed & Grain NZ highlights the rising challenge of “neighbouring” crops. With market gardeners and seed growers now operating side-by-side, collaborative management is vital to safeguard seed quality for everyone involved. Words Seed & Grain NZ.

The co-operative model has remained at the heart of the dairy sector with Fonterra the envy of the world’s dairy farmers. While it hasn’t always been plain sailing and other operating structures vie for milk supply, the co-operative ethos has prevailed. Words Anne Lee