Farming & Rural

In a region known for resilience, hard work, and strong community ties, a new network is proving rural women in business are thriving. The Western Women’s Business Collective (WWBC) is bringing together entrepreneurs from across Western Southland, creating a supportive space where connection replaces isolation. Founded by Michelle Anderson

Southern District Police are urging rural residents in Clutha and Gore to remain alert following a rise in burglaries across farming areas. Several incidents are currently under investigation in the heart of Southland, where offenders have been targeting fuel supplies and valuable farm equipment. Police say the recent spike has

Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd has lifted its forecast Farmgate Milk Price for the 2025/26 season, increasing the midpoint from $9.00 per kgMS to $9.50 per kgMS. The forecast range has also been raised and narrowed, moving from $8.50-$9.50 per kgMS to $9.20-$9.

Southern Field Days has once again transformed 56 hectares of farmland at Waimumu, near Gore, into a bustling “tent city,” showcasing the latest in rural innovation, technology and community spirit. Committee chairman Steve Henderson said the event is driven by a passionate group of 23 volunteers from the local Young

Southern Field Days is back at Waimumu from 11–13 February 2026, bringing three days of innovation, competition, machinery, rural pride and classic crowd favourites. From the ever-popular Tractor Pull and Speed Shear to national-level fencing competitions, mud buggy demonstrations and National Lamb Day celebrations, there’s something happening across

Another dairy farmer is edging closer to national honours after claiming the Otago Southland FMG Young Farmer of the Year title. Thomas Slee, 28, from Nightcaps, was named the regional winner on Saturday night following a demanding day of competition at the Gore A&P Showgrounds. Eight finalists faced

Fonterra is expanding its successful organic milk business into the South Island for the first time, with a call for both existing organic farms and those looking to convert. The focus will be on areas from Southland through to Canterbury, while recruitment also continues in the North Island where more

Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd has today provided an update on its forecast Farmgate Milk Price for the 2025/26 season.   The Co-op has adjusted the forecast range from $9.00-$10.00 per kgMS to $8.50-$9.50 per kgMS with the midpoint changing from $9.50 per kgMS