Full Show | February 20

In this week’s episode, senior reporter Neal Wallace covers severe weather impacts and sheep traceability, while AgriHQ’s Alex Coddington previews strong demand and high expectations ahead of beef weaner sales. Feature guest Glenn Bewley from Woolworths discusses food security and sustainability, and Federated Farmers’ Mark Hooper raises concerns about potential water taxes and infrastructure investment.News Wrap | Flood recovery and the push for sheep traceability1:40 – In this episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast, senior reporter Neal Wallace joins the show to unpack the impact of recent severe weather across New Zealand, including widespread flooding and the challenges farmers are facing on the ground. The discussion also turns to sheep traceability and what it could mean for strengthening biosecurity and accountability within the sector.AgriHQ Insight | Strong buying demand shapes weaner sales9:30 – AgriHQ analyst Alex Coddington shares his outlook for the livestock market ahead of the beef weaner sales. Strong schedules, solid buying power and a favourable growing season are setting the scene for high prices. Alex discusses what’s driving market confidence – and the risks farmers should consider when making purchasing decisions in a shifting market.Feature | The realities of food security in New Zealand14:13 – Glenn Bewley, Woolworths’ merchandise manager for vegetables and horticulture, joins the show to unpack the realities of food security in New Zealand. He discusses the value of strong, direct relationships with growers, the pressures created by extreme weather and urban encroachment, and why sustainability is becoming increasingly critical to the future of fresh produce supply.Feds Focus | Water tax must be ruled out24:30 – Federated Farmers is calling for amendments to the proposed resource management legislation so future governments cannot impose taxes on water. Mark Hooper says while the current government has ruled a water tax out, the legislation leaves the option on the table for those to come.The Final Word | Investment in infrastructure a priority28:57 – Climate scientists say storms like the one we experience this week are the new normal – that while we won’t necessarily get more storms, those we do get will be more intense. But are we tackling this challenge with the investment, ambition and actions that will sustain our rural communities?