Early Bird I Monday September 2nd

New report signals robust future for beef sector, government backs booming horticulture sector, and farmers urged to shape Fish & Game council. Welcome to Proud Country's Early Bird - The top things you need to know that impact rural New Zealand delivered to you by 5am, because who doesn’t need better chat beyond the weather! New report signals robust future for beef sector The industry outlook for Kiwi beef farmers remains strong for 2024 and beyond. A new Rabobank report highlights New Zealand's beef sector as a standout performer in our agricultural landscape, with farmgate prices climbing and export demand holding firm. This news comes as a welcome boost for rural communities navigating challenges in other farming sectors. Farmgate prices for bull beef, prime, and cull cow have climbed above the five-year average. This uptick continued into the third quarter, bringing welcome news to beef producers. The United States has become the leading destination for New Zealand beef exports in 2024. Export volumes to the US increased by 8% in the first half of the year, reaching 109,000 tonnes. More importantly, the value of these exports jumped by 17%, underlining the strong demand and higher prices in the American market. Meanwhile, our exports to China have seen a decline, with volumes down 21% compared to last year. This shift highlights the importance of market diversity for our beef industry. On the home front, processors are actively competing for cattle, adding upward pressure on prices. Prime cattle prices neared 700 cents per kilogram carcass weight at the start of Q3, well above the five-year average. This trend reflects the industry's optimism and expectations of strong returns. Looking ahead, the outlook remains positive. With local production volumes forecast to be steady or slightly down over the next year, New Zealand is well-positioned to enjoy above-average returns. This is good news for both exporters and producers. Global beef production is expected to decline in the coming months, which could further benefit Kiwi farmers. Major beef-producing countries are projected to see a 3% decrease in production in Q4 2024 compared to the same period last year. Government backs booming horticulture sector New Zealand's horticulture sector is set to achieve record export revenues of $7.1 billion this year, showcasing resilience in the face of recent global challenges. The industry is rapidly approaching the $8 billion milestone, reflecting strong growth and increasing international demand for Kiwi produce. At the recent HortNZ conference, Associate Agriculture Minister Nicola Grigg addressed industry leaders, acknowledging the sector's achievements and outlining upcoming policy changes aimed at supporting continued growth. The government is considering several initiatives to boost the industry. These include streamlining consent processes for intensive indoor production and greenhouses on highly productive land, and implementing resource management reforms to simplify approvals for growers. Announcements on these changes are expected later this year. Water management is also under review, with the government looking to balance the interests of all water users and explore options for on-farm water storage. Additionally, there are plans to simplify farm environment plans, reducing complexity and costs while recognizing existing industry assurance programs. In a move that could open up new avenues for product development, the government is also considering reforms to New Zealand's gene technology rules. These proposed changes come as the horticulture sector faces ongoing challenges, including labour shortages, climate change impacts, and evolving international market demands. Industry experts say that while the record export figures are encouraging, growers continue to grapple with rising input costs and regulatory pressures. Bumper harvest brings value to consumers and opportunity for growers For the first time since Covid disrupted our lives, one of New Zealand's largest supermarket chains is reporting nearly full supply of locally grown fruit and vegetables. This news, shared at the Horticulture NZ conference in Tauranga, highlights the resilience and productivity of our nation's growers. Glenn Bewly, head of Woolworths' vegetable and horticulture buying team, attributes this abundance to an extended period of settled, warmer growing conditions. This has resulted in higher yields and good quality produce, allowing growers to deliver fantastic value to retail customers. The timing couldn't be better. With cost of living remaining a top concern for Kiwis, the increased supply of local produce is helping to ease pressure on household budgets. Customers are responding well, with Bewly noting examples of record-breaking sales volumes for some products. To maximise this opportunity, Woolworths is investing in infrastructure and training to ensure the best possible handling of fresh produce. The company recently opened its second state-of-the-art fresh produce distribution centre, completing national coverage for their store network. This investment allows for careful handling and appropriate temperature controls, maximising freshness and quality for customers. For rural communities and growers, this situation presents both challenges and opportunities. While the abundant supply has created some pricing pressures, it also offers the chance to grow consumption levels of fruit and vegetables. Bewly emphasised that Woolworths is working collectively with growers to achieve this goal. Farmers urged to shape Fish & Game council Federated Farmers leaders across New Zealand are rallying rural communities to make their voices heard in the upcoming Fish & Game elections. This call to action highlights the growing need for farmer representation in decisions affecting our rural landscape. Jason Herrick, Southland Federated Farmers president, says farmers – or at least people who understand farming  are needed on each Fish & Game regional council to ensure better, fairer representation. The push for increased farmer involvement stems from a desire for more collaborative relationships between Federated Farmers and Fish & Game. Herrick envisions a future where both organisations work together to achieve community-wide benefits. This collaboration could lead to improved outcomes for all parties involved. Farmers could gain support for essential activities like gravel extraction, while Fish & Game could secure better access to rivers on private land. In Waikato, Federated Farmers president Keith Holmes echoes these sentiments. He points out recent instances where Fish & Game has advocated for more stringent farming rules, such as 10-metre minimum setbacks from water bodies. Holmes argues these decisions often overlook the practical and financial impacts on local farmers. The Fish & Game elections, held every three years, determine the makeup of 12 regional councils. These councillors play a crucial role in setting fishing and hunting regulations, developing policies, and promoting freshwater sports fishing and game bird hunting in their communities. For farmers who are licensed anglers or game bird hunters, now is the time to ensure their eligibility to vote. Registration is open at www.fishandgame.org.nz, with voting set to begin in late September and close on October 11th. MPI stresses livestock care duties following recent court ruling A recent animal welfare case in Canterbury has brought the critical importance of proper livestock care into sharp focus.  The Christchurch District Court sentenced a 45-year-old Canterbury farmer to 240 hours of community work and imposed a ban on cattle ownership. This ruling follows an MPI investigation that uncovered severe animal welfare issues on the farmer's property. MPI's animal welfare manager, Peter Hyde, highlighted the seriousness of the situation. The case involved malnutrition among a herd of about 70 cows and 20 calves, with at least 20 animals found dead during the initial inspection. Hyde emphasised that those in charge of animals are responsible for their wellbeing at all times, including providing quality feed and water. The Ministry is using this case as a teachable moment for our rural community, reminding farmers of the fundamental aspects of animal care. These include ensuring adequate feed, water, and living conditions for livestock, especially during challenging times such as winter or calving season. MPI strongly encourages farmers facing difficulties to seek help early. Reaching out to veterinarians, rural support trusts, or even neighbours can provide crucial support before issues escalate. Hyde stressed that there are always options available, and addressing problems promptly is key to maintaining animal welfare standards. This case also underscores the importance of community vigilance in upholding high animal welfare standards across New Zealand.  MPI operates an animal welfare complaints line at 0800 00 83 33, where concerns can be reported confidentially. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.