Farming

* Fonterra's revised strategy focuses on Ingredients and Foodservice to drive growth. * The Co-op plans to divest its Consumer businesses and improve financial returns. * New targets include a 10-12% return on capital and increased dividend policy. Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd has unveiled its updated strategy, which shifts focus towards

* Fonterra increases forecast Farmgate Milk Price midpoint for 2024/25 season to $9.00 per kgMS. * Strong earnings in FY24 lead to a total dividend of 55 cents per share. * Fonterra explores divestment of its Consumer businesses to focus on core strengths. Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd has announced a 50

Southland farmers are grappling with an unusually wet spring, which has brought higher lamb death rates and low feed supplies. Persistent rain since August has made it difficult to manage paddocks, sow spring crops, and care for livestock. Jason Herrick, president of Southland’s Federated Farmers, described the situation as

* Kiwifruit exports reached $3.1 billion, a 20 percent rise from August 2023. * Gold kiwifruit exports grew 24 percent, driven by increased quantity sold internationally. * Green kiwifruit exports saw nearly 10 percent growth, due to rising prices. Kiwifruit exports from New Zealand reached an all-time high of $3.1 billion

* Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds supports farmers facing severe weather conditions in Southland. * Rainfall levels in some areas have exceeded 200 percent of the long-term September average. * Farmers struggle with ongoing wet weather, low lamb prices, and mental health challenges. Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds has voiced her support for Southland farmers

* Ministers praise the interest in the agricultural and horticultural regulatory products review process. * Over 80 submissions were received, highlighting the need to streamline approval processes. * Recommendations will be tested with industry groups before presenting findings to the Cabinet. Regulation Minister David Seymour, Environment Minister Penny Simmonds, and Food Safety Minister

* Southern District Police are urging rural communities to report suspicious or unusual activity. * Detective Senior Sergeant Gregory Baird stresses the importance of acting on instinct and reporting. * Simple security measures, such as locking gates and sheds, can help deter potential thieves. Southern District Police are calling on rural residents to

* Telford introduces a flexible animal healthcare qualification starting in February 2025. * The new programme offers students entry into rural vet technician roles across the country. * Students gain hands-on experience with large animals through local farming and veterinary partnerships. Southern Institute of Technology’s Telford Campus has revamped its core animal