CountryWide Summer 2026

Upgrading an irrigation system could lead to redesigns that help cut costs in the long run, but there will be costs and trade-offs to consider. Words Anne Lee.

Having a plan for replacing irrigation infrastructure should be built into farming business’ asset replacement plans and come as no surprise. Words Anne Lee

New resources released from IrrigationNZ are to get irrigating farmers thinking about how and why they should measure soil moisture in a bid to restore confidence in the technology available. Words Kathryn Healy.

Farmers and rural professionals aged 30-50 years old are feeling like they are missing from the leadership conversation. Dr Jordi Hoult’s recent Kellogg’s report digs into the necessity for a cultural shift within the primary sector for this vital age group. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

Economist Brad Olsen urges that while there may be better farmgate returns at the moment, time costs remain higher, which is keeping profit levels a little bit more crimped. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

Data from New Zealand Police and FMG highlights an increasing trend of rural thefts, particularly during peak periods such as the summer holidays and farm change-over.
Words Abby France.

Northland farmers at the sharp end of climate change are putting their experience and knowledge to good use, working with DairyNZ and research partners to develop pasture mixes that will underpin hardy and sustainable farming systems for a changing climate. Words Inside Dairy - DairyNZ. Photos Craig Brown.

Drier, low fertility soils, span over 500,000ha of New Zealand farmland and in many cases traditional white and red clover struggle and in some cases so does lucerne. Dr. Lucy Bell explores the future commercial potential of new legume species. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

If New Zealand’s horticulture sector is to thrive into the future, it must invest in one of the most valuable resources – people, and in particular, young people. Words Sharon Williamson.

Cam Speedy and John Bissell have spent decades helping farmers and conservation projects across the country make real headway against rats, stoats, possums, feral cats and ferrets. Words Allison Hess.