CountryWide Spring 2025

In this episode, Sarah Perriam-Lampp talks with Ivan Lawrie, General Manager at the Foundation for Arable Research, about the New Zealand Grown Grains initiative. Ivan explains how growers, millers, and bakers are collaborating to create a traceable, certifiable brand, strengthen the domestic wheat industry, and open opportunities in premium markets, while sharing lessons on value chains and building a resilient local food sector.

It’s never been more important to have eyes to the future, looking for signals ahead to what might be coming rather than looking in the rear-vision mirror. This special report arms your farming business on how to set a strategy that is resilient and aiming in the right direction – meeting the market. Words Anne Lee.

As a Big Buddy, Mark Withers is inspiring the next generation of farmers after a powerful bond was established through the programme with Kobi – proving that positive male role models can truly change young boys’ lives. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

Spring can be a mixed bag of weather but ideal for preparation to reset, rethink, and retool your irrigation strategy. Words Kathryn Healy.

Five Fijian ratus (chiefs) recently attended a special ceremony in Matapihi to celebrate the Ngāi Tukairangi Trust relationship with their villages’ Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) workers. Words Carly Gibbs, Photos John Cowpland.

As new wearable technologies for animals have surged in popularity, specific advice on the use of them within the dairy sector are to be included in an imminent review of the Animal Welfare Code: Dairy Cattle.
Words Tony Leggett.

Ginny Dodunski, Wormwise Programme Manager warns dairy and beef cattle farmers to move faster to avoid a repeat of the drench failure catastrophe seen in lamb systems. Words Tony Leggett.

Spring is a critical time – pasture growth accelerates, and stock performance can soar if managed well. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

It’s not new that farmers learn best from other farmers, particularly small groups that meet regularly. Is it time to expand your knowledge in a key area by joining a focus group? Words Sandra Taylor.

Spring is a season of opportunity – but to make the most of it, proactive planning and sharp execution are essential. This is the critical window to set up your farm for a productive and profitable year. Words Jacob Quinn.