Federated Farmers
Federated Farmers, New Zealand’s leading independent rural advocacy organisation, has established a news and insights partnership with AgriHQ, the country’s leading rural publisher, to give the farmers of New Zealand a more informed, united and stronger voice. Feds news and commentary appears each week in its own section of the Farmers Weekly print edition and online.
Rise of carbon farms ignites fire concerns
David Hayes warns that expanding pine forests threaten jobs and increase fire risks in Wairarapa.
Federated Farmers marks 125 years of advocating for rural communities
The Federation’s roots go back to 18 September 1899, when the first properly constituted Farmers’ Union branch was formed in Kaitaia.
Training reform crucial for farming
Federated Farmers education spokesperson says the system hasn’t been delivering for key industries like farming.
Government must pull regional councils into line: Feds
Federated Farmers urges government to stop councils from changing freshwater rules.
Taranaki farmers urged to speak up on water regs
Leedom Gibbs, Federated Farmers Taranaki president, urges farmers to engage with Taranaki Regional Council on balanced freshwater regulations.
Call for common sense on median barriers
Federated Farmers calls on government to have better roadwork infrastructure in place to accomodate ag machinery and improve road safety for all users.
Horizon delays gives ‘breathing space’
Ian Strahan says if we kneecap our regions economically with impractical regulations, the environment will also suffer.
Call for urgency in replacing RMA
Mark Hooper says farmers need resource consents almost every time they turn around, whether to move a bore, build a herd home, or often even just to farm.
Independent methane review long overdue: Feds
Appointing a highly credible and independent panel of scientists is the right approach to take, and Federated Farmers look forward to engaging in the process.
Sharing science could get tools to farmers faster
A regulatory review offers the chance to prune costs and delays, and still maintain very robust assurance on product safety, David Birkett says.
H&S review timely amid financial stress
Federated Farmers backs a review of health and safety regulations to balance safety with cost-efficiency, advocating for a more reasonable and cooperative approach.
Banking inquiry ‘an opportunity not a threat’
Lobby group says high interest rates, limited ability to borrow money, and a lack of farmer confidence are constraining the farming sector’s growth and development.
Uruguayan couple inspiring next generation
What started as a personal journey for a Northland farming couple, has become a story of uplifting their community through ag education.
Onerous gun laws in the firing line
Federated Farmers calls for balanced firearms laws in New Zealand, ensuring safety while maintaining practical access for essential farm tasks.
NZTA ‘duck shoving’ on closed Waikato road: Feds
Federated Farmers criticises NZTA for prolonged closure of Telephone Road, demanding swift action to resolve disruptions for local residents.
Tech bringing precision to remote farms
Sarah Adams of Gallagher predicts tech will revolutionise remote farming, enabling individual animal management for precision and sustainability.
Rural banking issues to see some ‘sunlight’
Federated Farmers' advocacy for a rural banking inquiry has been rewarded with government approval, marking a crucial step toward fairer banking for farmers.
Rules loading stress on livestock truck drivers
Livestock truck drivers face a dilemma: comply with strict transport rules or prioritise animal welfare amid unforeseen delays and regulatory pressures.
Mohair wins ad boost to convert sheep farmers
Mohair Producers NZ won a $10,000 radio ad package to promote angora goat farming, targeting sheep farmers amidst promising mohair market opportunities.
Bird flu here to stay if it arrives, MPI says
Ministry for Primary Industries cautions that eradicating highly contagious bird flu in New Zealand's wild birds may be impractical, stressing preparedness.
Complacency warning from West Coast president
Federated Farmers' West Coast president stresses ongoing advocacy despite government changes, highlighting farmer representation's importance.
Talent, commitment recognised in PINZ Award finalists
Finalists in the 2024 Primary Industries New Zealand Awards include champions of biodiversity, trade, and innovation.
He Waka Eke Noa: goodbye and good riddance
Lobby group welcomes NZ's decision to disband HWEN, emphasising fair and affordable climate policies for the agricultural sector.
Survey shows support for repealing freshwater rules
New Zealanders express concern over freshwater regulations, citing need for practicality, local approach, and balance with economic growth.
Budget brings no frills or surprises
Federated Farmers president sees budget as expected, urges government to cut red tape, support essential sectors for economic growth.
South Wairarapa council accused of fleecing farmers
A Wairarapa farmer seeks answers as to why rural rates are '6-8 times more than people in the city'.
Fears grow for drought-hit Hurunui farmers
Struggling against drought, low returns, and high costs, Hurunui farmers confront dire conditions, risking both livelihoods and animal welfare.
Community support lifts spirits in dark time
Community rallies around Lil Poulton after Cyclone Gabrielle damages farm.
Ruapehu farmers loop in more of wool’s value
Rural family transforms second-hand wool gear into niche products, branding under 'Spiral Farms', aiming for an on-farm store, sharing rural lifestyle.
Federated Farmers put banks on notice
‘Do you think NZ banks are presently demonstrating a positive commitment to support farming through difficult periods of high interest rates?’
KiwiSaver rule changes to support farmers ‘long overdue’
Federated Farmers is calling on the government to allow young farmers to use their KiwiSaver towards farm ownership.
Farmers vs politicians clash raises $300k
Politicians and farmers went head-to-head in a sports tournament to raise funds for East Coast farmers recovering from Cyclone Gabrielle.
Ongoing Brynderwyn closure putting lives at risk: Feds
Federated Farmers says the prolonged closure of 'the gateway to Northland' is creating economic and social hurt in Te Tai Tokerau.
Feds douse FENZ levy hike idea
Federated Farmers oppose proposed fire levy hikes, citing ongoing cost increases in Fire and Emergency New Zealand despite promised savings.
Federated Farmers’ position on animal exports
Prior to the previous Government’s ban, live exports were a significant earner for farmers so a return to trade would be welcomed, but animal welfare should a priority.
More emergency repairs may fall on ratepayers
NZTA's proposal may shift more storm recovery costs onto ratepayers.
Jason Herrick: from fed up to Feds leader
Jason Herrick's journey from leaving farming to becoming Southland Federated Farmers president.
Emotional task choosing tractor winner
Cyclone Gabrielle devastated Hawke’s Bay farms. Now, a tractor giveaway offers hope and support, showing community resilience in tough times.
Getting more bang for your fertiliser buck
Federated Farmers help farmers stretch their fertiliser budget through the Fertiliser Quality Council.
Small province draws a big crowd at farmers’ AGM
Farmers flock to Ruapehu Federated Farmers AGM seeking connection and support amid tough season, discussing rural challenges.
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