The Country

Jamie Mackay talks to Todd McClay, Emma Poole, Chris Brandolino, and Rowena Duncum.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Minister of Agriculture and Trade has his say on the Fonterra "step-change in strategic direction", his recent trade trips and the current Woolshed Tour around NZ.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's 55 days until FMG Young Farmer Grand Final in Hamilton (11 July) so we chat to the 2023 winner (and new mother) about what to expect in the Tron. She also comments on the Fonterra step-change in its strategic direction and the how the season has treated Waikato dairy farmers. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NIWA Weather Guy on the prospect of a dry winter.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The past producer and current fill-in host of The Country previews the Ahuwhenua Awards and the Century Farm and Station Awards coming up tonight and tomorrow respectively.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Country's Rowena Duncum and John Caradus - Senior Scientist and CEO of Grasslanz Technology, a subsidiary of AgResearch - look at what we collectively know as Genetic Technologies and its place in agriculture, both now and in the future.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Mackay talks to Miles Hurrell, Ray Smith, Jen Corkran, Peter Newbold, and Chris Russell.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The chief executive of Fonterra announces a step-change in its strategic direction.  As part of this, the Co-op has announced it is exploring full or partial divestment options for some or all of its global Consumer business, as well as its integrated businesses Fonterra Oceania and Fonterra Sri Lanka. Is Fonterra selling the family silverware? And what will it do with the money?

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's been a tough day at the office for the Director General of MPI as he announces the slashing of jobs to meet the Government's requirement of a 7.5% saving across the board. But how will this affect front-line services, biosecurity and the farming fraternity?

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rabobank's animal protein analyst comments on the ban of live animal export (sheep by sea) in Australian from May 2028. What does this potentially mean for New Zealand sheep farmers?

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The GM of PPGW Real Estate takes his monthly look at the state of the rural market.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our Australian correspondent pulls no punches on the ban of live animal export (sheep by sea) in Australian from May 2028. Plus what, if anything, was in the Budget for Aussie farmers?   

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Mackay talks to Christopher Luxon, Lance Kerr, Jane Smith, Nadine Tunley, Craig "Dairyman Hickman and Grant Farquhar.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The PM ponders the reintroduction of live animal exports (after the Aussies plan to ban sheep by sea by 2028), balancing the books, charter schools, the Christchurch Call and that oh-so-tight Highlanders jersey.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Could farming sheep under solar panels be the next big thing? We ask a Waikato beef farmer who plans on doing just that.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is a North Otago farmer and former winner of the BFEA who talks about the ongoing dry taking its toll, her trip to the corridors of power in Wellington, plus she pays tribute to the late Dr Jock Allison. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The chief executive of Horticulture NZ comments on the grower levy vote, cheaper vegetables because of a great growing conditions and her recent resignation.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's farming panel features a Mid Canterbury dairy farmer and Taranaki fert rep. We discuss feed covers heading into winter, farmer sentiment and the Aussies banning live sheep exports. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Mackay talks to Phil Duncan, James and Debbie Stewart, Todd Clark, Hunter McGregor, Vanessa Winning and Shane McManaway.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's Monday's resident weather expert on a Tuesday - and it's still incredibly dry in many parts of the country.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We track down the winners of the 2024 Fonterra Responsible Dairying Award at the NZ Dairy Awards held at Coronet Peak on Saturday night.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our Lexington-based US farming correspondent talks record beef prices, the "fastest two minutes in sport", the Trump trial and US PGA Championship up the road at Louisville this week. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shanghai-based Kiwi selling NZ venison (and now beef) to the Chinese. Today we ask if the Chinese economy is showing signs of life and whether the May Day holidays (May 1-5) have improved consumer spending.  

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We find today's panel at the Wairarapa Water Users Field Day, where it's still "bloody dry" and where it's all about water advocacy and resilience for the future.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Mackay talks to Will Hinton and Kali Rangiawha, Steve Smith, Grant "McNational" McCallam and Andrew Hoggard, and Pita Alexander.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This dynamic duo from Manawatū were named the 2024 New Zealand Share Farmers of the Year at the NZ Dairy Industry Awards held at Coronet Peak on Saturday night.  Northland’s Kieran McCahon became the 2024 New Zealand Dairy Manager of the Year and Kirwyn Ellis from Waikato was announced the 2024 New Zealand Dairy Trainee of the Year. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Friday was awarded an honorary doctorate in recognition of his outstanding contribution as an alumni and Chancellor, and his successes in the New Zealand wine industry. Steve took on the leadership of Lincoln as its Chancellor over 2016-2018 and led it through a period of transformation to its thriving position today and he became the first viticulturalist in the world to achieve the Master of Wine qualification. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's farmer/politician panel ponders one-eyed politicians, the parliamentary rugby game in Gisborne on May 25, the performance of Lincoln and Massey Universities, staying fit and healthy in Parliament, and a tough road for sheep farmers.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is a globe-trotting Christchurch farm accountant who questions the government's stance on inflation and talks about the challenges facing the sheep farming industry.   

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Mackay talks to Damien O'Connor, Dr Jacqueline Rowarth, Jim Hopkins, Emma Higgins, and Shane Jones. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Mackay talks to Wayne Langford, Dave Martin, Chris Brandolino, Gill Naylor, Stu Duncan, and Barry Soper.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The president of Federated Farmers comments on the ongoing dry, the Parliamentary rugby and netball games coming up in Gisborne, the rural advocacy hub at Fieldays and the Feds sharing the love with Groundswell.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We talk to a Wairoa farmer who talks about the current failure of the maize grain market for many North Island growers.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NIWA’s Weather Guy bids farewell to El Nino (but not its effects).

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The president of Rural Women New Zealand on the upcoming business awards.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the absence of Stu Loe (who’s on a course at Terrace Downs), we yarn to his offsider, who is in the very dry Maniototo region.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our political correspondent comments on Julie Anne Genter and Willie Jackson.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Mackay talks to Shane Jones, Wayne McNee, Jeremy Rookes, Jamie Cunninghame, and Chris Russell.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Prince of the Provinces (and Minister of Regional Development, Resources and Associate Energy) was firing on all cylinders in the House last night when talking about an impending energy crisis. And the Greens were the target for his silver tongue. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The chief executive of AgriZeroNZ, the joint venture (JV) fast-tracking emissions reduction tools for Kiwi farmers, says the company is investing $9.9 million in a U.S. ag-biotech start-up, ArkeaBio, in the race for the "holy grail" vaccine to reduce methane emissions from ruminant livestock.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is a Canterbury hobby farmer and our resident lifestyle block spokesperson, who talks droughts, duck shooting and the woes of the meat industry.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

PGG Wrightson Livestock's National Dairy Specialist says a lot of animals are changing hands in the lead into Moving Day at the end of the month.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our Australian correspondent talks about who should pay for a biosecurity levy to protect their borders - incoming passengers or farmers?

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Mackay talks to Christopher Luxon, Mark Wynne, Emma Higgins, and Jim Hopkins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The PM ponders our energy deficit, FTA possibilities with the UAE, whether fast-tracking legislation leave future NZ governments exposed to expensive trade disputes, can we afford tax cuts and have the rules in parliament around conduct and dress code gone to the dogs?

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Chair of the Alliance Group comments on the response from the farmer meetings about controversial capital-raising programme, and he admits the world's largest sheep meat processor has not been well managed in the past 10 years. But has the board and management been incompetent or, worse, negligent? 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rabobank's senior Ag Analyst reviews last night's GDT auction (surprisingly up 1.8%,  WMP + 2.4%) and previews the bank's latest Q2 Global Dairy Quarterly Report, which has announced an opening forecast milk price of $8-40 kg/MS.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our resident Rural Raconteur injects some humour during challenging times down on the farm. We go back in time to the 1980s and the transformational Lange/Douglas government and ask if history is about to repeat itself? 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Mackay talks to Damien O'Connor, Krista Franklin, Dr Jacqueline Rowarth, Sirma Karapeeva, Peter Nation, and Phil Duncan.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Labour's Trade spokesperson fronts up for his fortnightly argument. Today talk about a UAE trade deal, red meat returns, the value of co-ops, JAG hiding in the Chatham Islands  and why the past Labour-led government is not to blame for the state of the economy. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We revisit a Northland kumara grower (and these days Ag Facilitator for the Rural Support Trust) to report on a vastly improved 2024 harvest season following the devastation of Gabrielle in 2023. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the primary sector's leading academics asks the question. Why is food is so expensive in supermarkets, yet farmers and growers are struggling to survive? You can read all about it in her brilliant column on our website.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Meat Industry Association chief executive comments on a disappointing first quarter export result for red meat plus we look at the prospects for an FTA with the UAE. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The chief executive of Fieldays says tickets are now on sale for farming's biggest gathering of 2024.  Plus we talk about the new Advocacy Hub and the largest number of Innovation Hub entries for 10 years.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mother Nature is baring her teeth this week in the lead up to winter. Plus we ask what a farewell to La Nina means for next season's weather.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Mackay talks to David Seymour, Kerry Worsnop, Bruce Cameron, and John McOviney.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Act Party leader looks back on another tumultuous week in politics (especially for the Greens) and forward to the Budget. Has he had any Flashmob style protests at his place (like Winston)? And does he deserve his pay rise?

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is a Gisborne farmer and Nuffield Scholar. Today we discuss publishing her research project and the ongoing recovery from Cyclone Gabrielle on her Poverty Bay sheep and beef farm.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The former Chairman of Zespri (and Bay of Plenty kiwifruit farmer) reviews a great harvest season for growers and reflects on his recent trip to China and some concerning demographic stats from over there.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is a Waitomo sheep and beef farmer and the chief executive of Steelfort. Today we talk about the state of the Chinese economy, the effect high interest rates are having on our economy, and selling 500 weaner Angus calves at this week at Taupo. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Mackay talks to Christopher Luxon, Jane Smith, Todd Charteris, Katrina Roberts, and Winston Peters. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Mackay talks to Winston Peters, Katrina Roberts, Don Carson, and Barry Soper.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We track down our globe-trotting Minister of Foreign Affairs (and Deputy PM) after his stint abroad drumming up trade business for NZ. Plus what has he been doing to upset Bob Carr and the Chinese? And what about JAG? Has he ever seen the likes in the House?

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We catch up with last night's winner of the 2024 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year. And what a delight this Waikato vet and farm consultant is!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's the end of an era. One of the great contributors to communication in primary sector steps aside from full time work after stints with Radio NZ Rurals, the NZ Wool Board, the No8 Wired TV show, NZ Islamic Meat Management, Seafood NZ, Federated Farmers and the NZ Forest Owners Association.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We ask our long-serving political correspondent if he's ever seen anything like JAG's display in the House before? And it's business as usual with Winston facing another defamation case! 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Mackay talks to Willie Wiese, Richard Slee, Chris Hipkins, Chris Russell, and Craig "Wiggy" Wiggins.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Alliance Group chief executive says if farmers want to retain a 100% farmer-owned cooperative, then they must support the capital raising programme which was floated to shareholders last Friday. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is a Southland sheep and beef farmer (and 25 years ago was the 1999 Young Farmer of the Year). Today we get his take, as a large-scale supplier/shareholder, on the controversial Alliance Group capital-raising programme.  

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 Who said being in Opposition was hard? We ask the Labour leader about polls, pay, Chloe, James and Julie Anne.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our Australian correspondent talks Anzac Day, Pacific Island workers, live cattle export, and LIV Golf taking Adelaide by storm.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is a rural mental health advocate who previews his upcoming Agri Connect Event.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Mackay talks to Christopher Luxon, Jane Smith, Kara Biggs, and Todd Charteris.   

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The PM ponders a pay rise for politicians - are they overpaid or underpaid?  The polls - a sign of the tough economic times? Penny Simmonds and Melissa Lee - scapegoats or incompetent? Making life easier for farmers. Trade with India. And has he ever been duck hunting?

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is a North Otago farmer and award-winning environmentalist who pulls no punches when it comes to the state of the sheep meat industry.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Campaign for Wool NZ's GM welcomes Sam Neill on board as an ambassador. But what can the iconic NZ actor do to improve the fate of strong wool?

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The chief executive of Rabobank comments on the state of the sheep farming industry, interest rates, and why the bank has partnered with a new television series Food Rescue Kitchen.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rowena Duncum talks to Damien O'Connor, Cameron Bagrie, Tom Martin, Tom Young, and Abbi Ayre. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Opposition spokesman for trade looks at a report from law firm Chapman Tripp, Protecting New Zealand’s Competitive Advantage, on New Zealand exports and how environmental and sustainability requirements could affect Kiwi farmers. He also talks about work visa changes, planting trees on farms, and wool.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today the independent economist talks about interest rates that are refusing to go down despite inflation dropping, however, he says there is a positive side to this situation. Plus, he takes a closer look at rural banking and whether New Zealand could double its exports.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

UK correspondent reports on how wet weather is affecting arable farmers’ ability to plant, Parliament’s fairness in the food supply chain inquiry, and how everyone is looking forward to the third season of Clarkson’s Farm.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The national livestock manager for Affco says the season is entering its “slow period” which has been “reasonably challenging” with North Island volumes affected by unpredictable weather.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reefton dairy farmer on how being part of the Farmstrong Supporters Network helps her to help others.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rowena Duncum talks to Phil Duncan, Richard McIntyre, Andew Douglas, Blair McLean, Jane Hunter, and Michelle Simpson.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Weather.co.nz forecaster updates us on a cold Southerly moving into contention this week and on how Opening Weekend is looking for duck hunters.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Federated Farmers national board member and employment spokesman on the latest findings in the 2024 Federated Farmers-Rabobank Farming Salaries Report.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andrew Douglas from Cape Produce looks at the Hawke’s Bay apple market and how those hit with Cyclones Hale and Gabrielle are faring.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Country’s viticulture correspondent and the owner of Hunter’s Wines review the 2024 grape harvest.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The project manager of Ovis Management encourages duck hunters to get their dogs treated for sheep measles ahead of Saturday’s season opener.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rowena Duncum talks to Todd McClay, Jack Fagan, Miles Hurrell, Chris Russell, and Christopher Luxon.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rowena Duncum talks to Seth Carrier, Emma Poole and Tim Dangen, Hunter McGregor, Jason Everson, and Jason Wells.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NIWA weatherman reports on a balmy Anzac Day but says we shouldn't expect this kind of weather next week. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, "The Dangen Zone" welcomes Sullivan Poole to the family, celebrates World Veterinary Day tomorrow, discusses the FMG Young Farmer of the Year Grand Final and the Clash of the Colleges competition, and looks forward to duck hunting. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our Shanghai-based correspondent talks about the state of the Chinese economy, saying "Some parts are doing really well and some parts are doing quite poorly," plus an initiative to introduce Chinese consumers to Kiwi venison.    

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Country's Rowena Duncum talks to PGG Wrightson Wool's Product and Innovation Manager about the state of the wool market, plus the Awatoto wool scour coming back online and the recent international wool conference in Adelaide. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newstalk ZB's Political Editor wraps up a busy week in politics, including Winston Peters in Gallipoli, and what we can expect from MPs when Parliament resumes next week. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rowena Duncum talks to Christopher Luxon, Chris Russell, Campbell Parker, and Mark de Lautour.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Prime Minister ponders the trade opportunities his Southeast Asia trip showcased, yesterday’s RMA announcement, employment legislation changes that affect the primary sector and where he’ll be spending Anzac Day.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the eve of Anzac Day, our Australian correspondent shares the amazing connections his family had with both World Wars.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.