DairyNZ has set out six priorities in its 2026 election manifesto, led by fixing the resource management and freshwater system, chair Tracy Brown says.

“Farmers need clear practical resource consent rules around freshwater requirements so they can confidently invest,” she says.

“If farm plans can largely replace a lot of the requirements in terms of consenting, we think that’ll free farmers up to get on with the business of farming.”

The manifesto also covers biosecurity, workforce, science funding, low-emissions technology and animal welfare.

“We just want enduring policy.”

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