CountryWide CONNECT

This episode features Craig "Wiggy" Wiggins, Lean on a Gate, Talk to a Mate discussing rural health, wellbeing, stress and resilience across rural New Zealand. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit https://country-wide.co.nz/connect/ on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Evan Potter, Chair, NZ Deer Farmer Association discussing the Deer Industry Conference and confidence, markets and where the sector heads next. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit https://country-wide.co.nz/connect/ on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Dr Thomas Carlin, Invasion Ecologist, Bioeconomy Science Institute discussing new research showing wilding pines may be adapting faster than previously understood, including evidence some NZ pine populations are already evolving and why current control assumptions may need rethinking. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit https://country-wide.co.nz/connect/ on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Alex Turnbull, CEO, Westland Milk Products discussing Westgold butter being named New Zealand’s best supermarket butter in Consumer NZ’s blind taste test and why grass-fed dairy provenance is becoming increasingly valuable globally. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit https://country-wide.co.nz/connect/ on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Tony Leggett, Rural Commentator discussing why meat co-op share prices are falling despite strong livestock pricing and improving processor profitability, and what that says about the future of farmer ownership structures. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit https://country-wide.co.nz/connect/ on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Hon Todd McClay, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, Trade and Investment discussing concerns that President Trump’s administration could target New Zealand lamb exports with new tariffs under fresh US trade investigations, raising wider questions around trade volatility and the future of global agricultural access. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Synlait CEO resigns after twelve months in role Revised fuel plan gives sheep and beef farmers greater certainty Westgold butter tops Consumer NZ blind taste test Rural News is in partnership with Farmlands as part of CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp - our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.   Synlait CEO resigns after twelve months in role Synlait Milk chief executive Richard Wyeth has resigned after just over a year in the job, with Bright Dairy-appointed director Leon Fung stepping in as acting CEO from today. No reason was given for the departure. The board thanked Wyeth for leading the company through a particularly challenging period, and he will remain until June thirtieth to support the transition. The resignation adds to a period of significant instability at the Canterbury dairy processor. Synlait has had several chief executives in recent years, reported an eighty million dollar net after-tax loss in the first half of this year, and continues to deal with the fallout from manufacturing challenges at its Dunsandel site. Earlier this week, independent director Paul McGilvary also resigned from the board, leaving Synlait with just one independent director — chair George Adams. A search for a new director is already underway, with an update expected before Monday.   Revised fuel plan gives sheep and beef farmers greater certainty Sheep and beef farmers have won greater protection under the Government's revised Fuel Response Plan, with priority fuel access now reserved for more severe disruptions rather than kicking in earlier than needed. The key change shifts priority access from Phase 3 to Phase 4 of the plan, meaning normal fuel supply would continue for longer before any allocation system was introduced. Under the updated approach, Phase 3 would focus on releasing reserves and encouraging voluntary demand reduction — with stronger controls only triggered by a severe and prolonged shortage. Beef and Lamb New Zealand says it has been working behind the scenes with officials to ensure fuel settings reflect how farms and rural supply chains actually operate. The organisation pushed for the red meat sector to be treated as essential if restrictions ever were introduced — protecting not just on-farm fuel use but livestock movement, processing, transport and exports. The Government considers Phase 4 unlikely, but confirms food and freight would remain priority areas if that point were reached.   Westgold butter tops Consumer NZ blind taste test West Coast butter has beaten every supermarket rival in a blind tasting test conducted by Consumer New Zealand — and Westland Milk Products says the secret is no secret at all. Westgold topped the panel on taste, with testers describing it as complex, rich, salty and decadent. Westland CEO Alex Turnbull says the result confirms what the West Coast has always known — grass-fed cows on some of New Zealand's most remote and lush pastures produce exceptional cream, and exceptional cream makes exceptional butter. Westgold butter sales in New Zealand have grown around forty percent over the past four years, with global demand also rising. Westland Milk Products CEO Alex Turnbull joins us shortly on CountryWide Connect.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We kick off at 11:05 with Trade Minister Todd McClay as concerns grow that President Trump’s administration could target New Zealand lamb exports with new tariffs under fresh US trade investigations, raising wider questions around trade volatility and the future of global agricultural access. At 11:18, NZ Deer Farmers Association Chair Evan Potter wraps the Deer Industry Conference and discusses confidence, markets and where the sector heads next. At 11:33, rural commentator Tony Leggett joins us to discuss why meat co-op share prices are falling despite strong livestock pricing and improving processor profitability, and what that says about the future of farmer ownership structures. At 12:00 it’s Rural News with Farmlands. At 12:05, Westland Milk Products CEO Alex Turnbull discusses Westgold butter being named New Zealand’s best supermarket butter in Consumer NZ’s blind taste test and why grass-fed dairy provenance is becoming increasingly valuable globally. At 12:18, Craig “Wiggy” Wiggins joins us for a wider discussion around rural health, wellbeing, stress and resilience across rural New Zealand. We finish at 12:30 with Dr Thomas Carlin from the Bioeconomy Science Institute discussing new research showing wilding pines may be adapting faster than previously understood, including evidence some NZ pine populations are already evolving and why current control assumptions may need rethinking.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Kate Taylor, Central Hawke’s Bay district councillor and rural journalist discussing local government reform, council restructuring and whether regional councils in their current form have a future. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Libby Price, Australian Rural Correspondent discussing the Australian Budget and what it means for farmers, inflation, trade and the wider rural economy. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Robbie Ferris, Pasture Summit Chairperson and Director, GM of Piriaka Farms discussing this week’s Waikato Pasture Summit, discussing pasture profitability, progression pathways and practical farm performance. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Steve Chappell, Programme Manager, New Zealand National Fieldays Society discussing the 2026 Fieldays Innovation Awards, where AI, automation and practical farm technology dominate this year’s innovation trends. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Tim Gorton & Craig Hickman discussing imported American butter, local government reform, agtech overload and the increasingly strategic issue of BBQ smoking charcoal. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Lauren McConnachie, NZDIA Farm Manager of The Year Winner discussing leadership, sustainability and managing one of New Zealand’s larger dairy operations. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Jo Luxton, Labour Spokesperson for Agriculture, Biosecurity, Customs discussing Labour’s agricultural policy direction, rural priorities and local government reform. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US lamb tariff investigation expected to target NZ and Australia Beef tariff changes could benefit Kiwi exporters Hawke's Bay growers eye takeover of McCain factory Rural News is in partnership with Farmlands as part of CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp - our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.   US lamb tariff investigation expected to target NZ and Australia New Zealand's lamb exporters could soon face a fresh trade threat, with Trade Minister Todd McClay warning a United States investigation into New Zealand and Australian lamb imports is likely in the coming weeks. McClay says US trade officials are looking for new ways to reintroduce tariffs after the Supreme Court struck down President Trump's sweeping emergency duties as illegal. So-called unfair trade practice investigations are emerging as the administration's preferred alternative route. New Zealand exported more than six-hundred million dollars of sheep meat — including lamb — to the US in 2025. McClay says officials are in contact with their US counterparts, making the case that New Zealand is not flooding the market and is helping American farmers grow domestic demand for lamb. But the minister is under no illusions about the political reality. He says if the president decides to act, the president decides — and the trigger could be anything. Most New Zealand exports to the US currently face a ten percent blanket tariff.   Beef tariff changes could benefit Kiwi exportersMeanwhile, New Zealand beef exporters are watching developments in the United States closely, after the Wall Street Journal reported the Trump administration is planning to temporarily reduce beef tariffs as soon as this week. The move is being driven by record-high domestic beef prices in the US, where the American cattle herd sits at a seventy-five year low. The administration is expected to suspend tariff-rate quotas that apply higher rates once import volumes hit a threshold — allowing more product in at lower rates. Whether New Zealand gains from the changes remains uncertain — any reduction in tariffs could also open the door to significantly increased competition from Brazil, the world's biggest beef producer. There have been no official announcements from the US Government.   Hawke's Bay growers eye takeover of McCain factory Hawke's Bay vegetable growers are exploring whether they could take over the McCain frozen vegetable factory in Hastings — and save an industry that has underpinned the region's cropping sector for decades. McCain announced it was closing the Hastings plant after being unable to identify a sustainable pathway for the operation, leaving more than a hundred growers of peas, beans, corn and carrots facing an uncertain future. For some, the crop represents up to a quarter of their annual income. Meetings have been held between ministers, mayors and growers since the announcement, with strong appetite among farmers to attempt a community takeover of the site. But the clock is ticking — McCain is operating the factory only until January, after which machinery could be packed up and sent overseas. Central Hawke's Bay Mayor Will Foley says losing the assets would make any restart far more expensive. McCain has confirmed it has received interest from several parties and is continuing discussions. Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says there is a huge amount of optimism in the region and he plans to meet with growers in the coming weeks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CountryWide Connect – Show Summary (Working backwards from 1pm to 11am) We finish at 12:48 with the North/South Farmer Panel featuring Tim Gorton and Craig Hickman debating imported American butter, local government reform, agtech overload and the increasingly strategic issue of BBQ smoking charcoal. At 12:33, Annabel Davies, Nature Investment Officer at Pāmu, discusses the state farming organisation’s new partnership with True Nature exploring large-scale native restoration and the development of high-integrity nature credits across parts of the Pāmu farm network. At 12:18, Kate Taylor, Central Hawke’s Bay district councillor and rural journalist, joins us to discuss local government reform, council restructuring and whether regional councils in their current form have a future. At 12:05, Australian rural correspondent Libby Price breaks down the Australian Budget and what it means for farmers, inflation, trade and the wider rural economy. At 12:00 it’s Rural News with Farmlands. At 11:48, Robbie Ferris, Chairperson of Pasture Summit and Director and GM of Piriaka Farms, wraps this week’s Waikato Pasture Summit, discussing pasture profitability, progression pathways and practical farm performance. At 11:33, Steve Chappell, Programme Manager for the New Zealand National Fieldays Society, previews the 2026 Fieldays Innovation Awards, where AI, automation and practical farm technology dominate this year’s innovation trends. At 11:18, Lauren McConnachie, winner of the 2026 NZ Dairy Industry Awards Dairy Manager of the Year title, joins us to discuss leadership, sustainability and managing one of New Zealand’s larger dairy operations. We kick off at 11:05 with Jo Luxton, Labour spokesperson for Agriculture, Biosecurity and Customs, discussing Labour’s agricultural policy direction, rural priorities and local government reform.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Tony Trewinnard, Blue Skies Weather discussing the latest outlook for farmers around the country and what conditions are shaping up like across the regions. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Tony Dodunski, 2026 Fonterra Responsible Dairying Award Recipient discussing practical on-farm innovation, how technology is being used at farm level, and the role of Ag Assist in connecting rural services and support. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Murray Hart, Business Development Manager, Animal Health, Ecolab discussing calving season biosecurity, hygiene and milk quality, and the practical steps farmers can take to minimise disease pressure and improve outcomes this season. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Dr Shaun Presow, Acting Manager of Hazardous Substances Applications, Environmental Protection Authority discussing the withdrawal of an appeal against the EPA’s glyphosate ruling, discussing what the High Court decision means for science-based regulation and chemical oversight in New Zealand. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Edward Fitzgerald, Chair of the New Zealand Century Farms & Station Awards discussing this week’s New Zealand Century Farms & Station Awards in Lawrence, celebrating farming families who have remained on the same land for 100 years. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Mark Patterson, Minister for Rural Communities discussing looming local government reform, council amalgamation pressure, and what structural change could mean for rural representation and local decision-making. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Government moves to shield businesses from climate change lawsuits ASB backs wool industry revival with Wool Impact partnership Dawn Meats acquires German Alliance Group distribution partner Rural News is in partnership with Farmlands as part of CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp - our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen. Government moves to shield businesses from climate change lawsuits The Government is moving to protect businesses from civil liability for greenhouse gas emissions, amid ongoing High Court litigation that Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says is creating uncertainty for investment and business confidence. An amendment to the Climate Change Response Act will prevent courts from finding businesses liable in tort law for climate change damage caused by their emissions — applying to both current and future proceedings. Goldsmith says climate change is too complex to be resolved through piecemeal court action, and New Zealand already has a Parliamentary framework for managing emissions through the Emissions Trading Scheme. Businesses with ETS obligations will still be required to meet them. For the agricultural sector, the move provides a degree of legal certainty — farming has long been identified as a potential target for climate litigation given its significant share of New Zealand's total emissions. The law change does not alter the Government's own responsibilities under existing climate legislation. ASB backs wool industry revival with Wool Impact partnership New Zealand's strong wool sector has secured its first banking partner, with ASB signing on to support Wool Impact's work revitalising the industry. Wool Impact chief executive Andy Caughey says the timing is significant. Average strong wool prices have risen by more than two dollars per kilogram over the past twelve months — and sustaining that increase across New Zealand's annual clip of around one-hundred-thousand tonnes means an extra two-hundred million dollars flowing into rural communities each year. ASB General Manager Rural Aidan Gent says wool is part of New Zealand's national identity and the bank sees real potential for improved farm returns as the sector rebuilds its market relevance. Caughey says growing demand is coming from architects and designers seeking natural fibres for interior spaces — areas where wool's health and environmental credentials are increasingly valued over synthetic alternatives. Dawn Meats acquires German Alliance Group distribution partner Dawn Meats has acquired one of Alliance Group's largest German customers, in a move that deepens the Irish meat giant's integration with the New Zealand co-operative. Alexander Eyckeler GmbH imports and distributes Alliance's Ashley lamb, mutton and venison brand across Germany's retail, food service and cash and carry markets, where it holds a dominant market share. Alliance's relationship with the Eyckeler family spans almost forty years, beginning with a specialist butcher shop in Düsseldorf. Dawn Meats chief executive Niall Browne says the acquisition brings the company closer to key customers in Germany and improves coordination across supply and logistics.  For New Zealand sheep and deer farmers supplying Alliance, the deal signals continued investment in securing and strengthening the German market — one of the most important export destinations for New Zealand lamb, mutton and venison.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Robyn Haugh, Chief Executive, True Nature discussing the new partnership with Pāmu exploring native restoration projects, biodiversity credits and the emerging environmental investment market in New Zealand. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Cristina Alvarado, NZX, Head of Dairy Insights discussing the latest Global Dairy Trade event, dairy futures and what current market signals are telling farmers. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Colin Hurst, Federated Farmers Vice President and Freshwater Spokesperson discussing biodiversity credits, environmental investment and whether farmers are finally beginning to get recognised for conservation work already happening on-farm. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Show Summary (Working backwards from 1pm to 11am) We finish at 12:48 with Tony Trewinnard from Blue Skies Weather bringing the latest outlook for farmers around the country and what conditions are shaping up like across the regions. At 12:33, Fonterra Responsible Dairying Award winner Tony Dodunski joins us to discuss practical on-farm innovation, how technology is being used at farm level, and the role of Ag Assist in connecting rural services and support. At 12:18, Dr Shaun Presow from the Environmental Protection Authority joins us following the withdrawal of an appeal against the EPA’s glyphosate ruling, discussing what the High Court decision means for science-based regulation and chemical oversight in New Zealand. At 12:05, Edward Fitzgerald joins us ahead of this week’s New Zealand Century Farms & Station Awards in Lawrence, celebrating farming families who have remained on the same land for more than 100 years. At 12:00 it’s Rural News with Farmlands. At 11:48, Rural Communities Minister Mark Patterson discusses looming local government reform, council amalgamation pressure, and what structural change could mean for rural representation and local decision-making. At 11:33, Cristina Alvarado from NZX breaks down the latest Global Dairy Trade event, dairy futures and what current market signals are telling farmers. At 11:18, Federated Farmers Vice President Colin Hurst discusses biodiversity credits, environmental investment and whether farmers are finally beginning to get recognised for conservation work already happening on-farm. We open at 11:05 with Robyn Haugh from True Nature discussing the new partnership with Pāmu exploring native restoration projects, biodiversity credits and the emerging environmental investment market in New Zealand.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Geoff Ross, Carbonfields & Lake Hawea Station discussing the Government’s Nature and Carbon Markets announcement, the future of environmental markets and whether farmers can generate meaningful income from natural capital and carbon systems. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Jo Hendy, Chief Executive, Climate Change Commission discussing the Commission’s latest climate risk assessment, why agriculture is identified as a major long-term climate risk, and what adaptation and resilience could realistically look like for the sector by 2050. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Andrew Hoggard, Associate Minister for the Environment discussing the Government’s Nature and Carbon Markets announcement, balancing environmental outcomes with practical farming realities, and where the Coalition wants to take climate and land-use policy. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Matt Watson, Host, ITM Fishing Show discussing the Fisheries Amendment Bill backlash, public concern around commercial fishing reform, and whether Shane Jones has politically misread mainstream New Zealanders on fisheries management. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Scott & Stacey Mackereth, NZDIA Share Farmer of the Year 2026 discussing their journey through the industry, leadership, progression and what success looks like in modern dairying. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Richard Harman, Political Commentator  discussing the NZ Herald poll of polls, coalition tensions, local government reform, and the growing debate around trust and culture inside New Zealand media. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Government opens door to private nature and carbon market investment New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards celebrate rising talent Yili's NZ operations post record revenue and profit   Rural News is in partnership with Farmlands as part of CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp - our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.   Government opens door to private nature and carbon market investment Farmers and landowners could soon have new income options under a Government framework designed to grow New Zealand's voluntary nature and carbon markets. Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard says private money is needed to fund restoration work the public purse can't cover — projects like wetland restoration, native planting, habitat protection and carbon sequestration. The new framework gives that market a credibility structure, with an accreditation system he describes as a warrant of fitness for investors and landowners. Two pathways are available. Internationally accredited schemes are recognised immediately, while a domestic endorsement pathway — assessed against New Zealand's market integrity principles — opens within six months. Public conservation land will also be opened to privately funded nature and climate projects, provided they deliver outcomes beyond what the Crown already funds and meet Department of Conservation requirements. For landowners, the practical upside is a clearer, lower-cost way to identify reputable operators and access a growing pool of investors willing to pay for verified environmental outcomes on private land.   New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards celebrate rising talent New Zealand's top dairy talent has been recognised at the 2026 Dairy Industry Awards in Rotorua on Saturday, with more than six-hundred people gathering to celebrate the best in the business. Scott and Stacey Mackereth from Southland took out Share Farmers of the Year, contract milking fourteen-hundred cows on four-hundred-and-sixty-four hectares at Edendale. Head judge Robert Ervine says the couple make a dynamic team — Scott data-driven and managing thirteen staff, Stacey the grounding force holding it all together. Lauren McConnachie from Canterbury/North Otago was named Dairy Manager of the Year, managing twenty-one-hundred-and-seventy cows across five-hundred-and-sixty-three hectares. Judges praised her ability to convert complex farming decisions into clear, simple steps for her team. West Coast's Mark Ready won Dairy Trainee of the Year — already buying his first line of cows and on track for herd ownership at just 23 years old. dairyindustryawards.co.nz has more information on the awards and winners.   Yili's NZ operations post record revenue and profit China's Yili Group has delivered record results from its New Zealand dairy operations, with revenue hitting one-point-five-eight billion dollars in 2025 — up fourteen percent — and pre-tax profit jumping more than three-fold to fifty-eight-point-four million dollars. The Yili Oceania Group credited a strategic shift away from volume toward higher-value products for the strong result. Chief executive Alex Turnbull says the West Coast operation remains an economic cornerstone of the region, and the results will support continued investment in the business and workforce. Expansion is continuing at Hokitika, with a third butter line boosting Westgold output and a second lactoferrin plant now commissioned — making the site one of the largest lactoferrin production facilities in the world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CountryWide Connect – Show Summary (Working backwards from 1pm to 11am) We finish at 12:48 with Geoff Ross from CarbonCrop discussing the Government’s Nature and Carbon Markets announcement, the future of environmental markets and whether farmers can generate meaningful income from natural capital and carbon systems. At 12:33, Jo Hendy — Chief Executive, Climate Change Commission — joins us to unpack the Commission’s latest climate risk assessment, why agriculture is identified as a major long-term climate risk, and what adaptation and resilience could realistically look like for the sector by 2050. At 12:18, Associate Minister for the Environment Andrew Hoggard joins us to discuss the Government’s Nature and Carbon Markets announcement, balancing environmental outcomes with practical farming realities, and where the Coalition wants to take climate and land-use policy. At 12:05, Jim van der Poel reflects on receiving special recognition at the 2026 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards for more than four decades of service to the dairy sector, including leadership through major industry change and the creation of Fonterra. At 12:00 it’s Rural News with Farmlands. At 11:48, Murray Hart — Business Development Manager, Animal Health at Ecolab — discusses calving season biosecurity, hygiene and milk quality, and the practical steps farmers can take to minimise disease pressure and improve outcomes this season. At 11:33, Matt Watson — Host, ITM Fishing Show — discusses the Fisheries Amendment Bill backlash, public concern around commercial fishing reform, and whether Shane Jones has politically misread mainstream New Zealanders on fisheries management. At 11:18, Scott and Stacey Mackereth — 2026 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards Share Farmers of the Year — join us in studio to discuss their journey through the industry, leadership, progression and what success looks like in modern dairying. We open at 11:05 with Richard Harman for Politics Monday, covering the NZ Herald poll of polls, coalition tensions, local government reform, and the growing debate around trust and culture inside New Zealand media.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Anna Gillespie,  President, Federated Farmers Otago discussing farmer confidence, current regional issues and the key challenges facing Otago farmers. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Matt Doocey, Minister for Mental Health and Associate Minister of Health discussing the Government’s new rural GP funding announcement, healthcare access and rural mental health support. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Climate report flags urgent risks for rural New Zealand Leading premium olive oil producer closes after 27 years Government running out of time on Freshwater Reform Rural News is in partnership with Farmlands as part of CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp - our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.   Climate report flags urgent risks for rural New Zealand A major new climate risk assessment has flagged rural communities among those facing the sharpest consequences from climate change — with roads, infrastructure, farming and council finances all under growing pressure. The Climate Change Commission's 2026 National Climate Change Risk Assessment identifies ten priority risks for New Zealand. While agriculture sits outside that top ten — rated as a "one to watch" — the report warns farming risk jumps directly from minor now to major by 2050, driven by drought, extreme weather, soil erosion and pest pressure. The report specifically calls out smaller rural councils as among the hardest hit, with constrained budgets and limited borrowing capacity already delaying resilience investment. A quarter of roads and a third of rail lines are exposed to flooding — with consequences described as especially severe for rural and isolated areas where alternative routes simply don't exist. Commission chief executive Jo Hendy says New Zealand is stuck in react and recover mode, spending money cleaning up after events rather than building resilience.   Leading premium olive oil producer closes after 27 years New Zealand's leading premium olive oil producer has gone into liquidation, raising serious questions about the future of the local industry. Wairarapa-based The Olive Press — the country's only registered wholesaler of certified premium olive oils — will be wound up after twenty-seven years in operation. Director Rod Lingard says the closure leaves local growers with few options for their commercial crops, facing a choice between selling fruit to processors outside the region or leaving olives on the tree. Lingard says a lack of investor interest forced the closure, and he's been critical of the industry's governing body, Olives New Zealand, saying it has failed to develop a growth strategy or marketing plan in three decades.   Government running out of time on Freshwater Reform With six months until the election, Federated Farmers is warning the Government is rapidly running out of time to deliver on its freshwater and resource management promises to farmers. Freshwater spokesperson Colin Hurst says while some early progress was made repealing unworkable rules, the previous Government's National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management — introduced by former Environment Minister David Parker in 2020 — remains law nearly three years on. That means resource consents are still being tested against targets Federated Farmers says are unachievable, and any change in Government could see those rules immediately reimplemented. Crucially, the national policy detail that would replace existing frameworks hasn't been released, leaving farmers unable to make long-term investment decisions. There's cautious optimism about new Environment Minister Nicola Grigg, who has a farming background. But Hurst says optimism only goes so far.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Maegan Legg, Chair, NZ Dairy Industry Awards discussing Saturday night’s national finals to discuss leadership, succession and attracting talent into dairy. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Libby Tosswill, Economic Growth Manager, Central Hawkes Bay District Council discussing a new land-use mapping tool designed to help farmers identify future crop opportunities and diversification options. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Allan Blood, Executive Director, Victorian Hydrogen discussing a proposed $3 billion Southland lignite-to-fertiliser plant and the growing debate around fertiliser security, emissions and environmental impacts. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Kerry Allen, 2026 Bledisloe Medalist discussing agribusiness education and her decades-long work helping build pathways into the food and fibre sector. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Kelly Wilson, Founding Board Member, Kaimanawa Legacy Foundation discussing the Kaimanawa horse muster, rehoming programmes and the future management of New Zealand’s wild horse population. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Luke Gilbert, Dairy Genetics Specialist, Carrfields discussing the Singh family’s record-setting dairy cattle sale average, the booming value of elite genetics and how genomics is changing breeding decisions across the dairy sector. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Mark Simpson, General Manager of Sales, Dairyworks discussing why imported butter is now competing on New Zealand supermarket shelves and what it says about pricing pressures in the domestic dairy market. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Hinehou Timutimu, Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year 2026 discussing last night’s Dairy Women’s Network awards in Christchurch to discuss leadership, Māori agribusiness and the future direction of dairy farming. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features John McWhirter, CEO, Wools of NZ discussing a major new international partnership that will see NZ wool used in premium carpets exported to nearly 70 countries around the world. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features Sandra Faulkner, Local Government Spokesperson, Federated Farmers  discussing the Government’s push for local government reform, unitary councils and Federated Farmers’ warning that councils must reform now or risk decisions being made for them. CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp is our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Costa Rica joins Trans-Pacific trade partnership Research to review deer hunting buffer zone rules Government to wind up Broadcasting Standards Authority Rural News is in partnership with Farmlands as part of CountryWide CONNECT with Andy Thompson & Sarah Perriam-Lampp - our daily rural show livestreamed from 11am-1pm. Visit country-wide.co.nz on how to watch / listen.   Costa Rica joins Trans-Pacific trade partnership New Zealand meat, dairy and horticulture farmers are among the immediate winners as Costa Rica formally joins the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. Sheep meat, seafood, horticulture and wine all gain full tariff elimination from day one, with more than ninety-four percent of New Zealand exports to Costa Rica entering duty-free immediately — rising to over ninety-nine percent within ten years. Beef becomes tariff-free after eight years, with dairy duties falling to zero over thirteen years. The CPTPP now spans a growing number of economies across the Asia-Pacific region, and its continued expansion is important for New Zealand's preferential market access at a time of increasing pressure on rules-based trade globally.   Research to review deer hunting buffer zone rules Research is underway that could reshape food safety rules for commercial and recreational deer hunters, with current restrictions being called too blunt. Under existing rules, deer cannot be killed and supplied for food processing within a two-kilometre buffer zone around a brodifacoum bait station, with restrictions remaining in place for three years after the poison is laid. That puts large areas of land off-limits to commercial hunters for extended periods. The Bioeconomy Science Institute and Lincoln University will lead the research, bringing together experts in deer behaviour, toxicology, statistical modelling and bait station design. The goal is to move away from a one-size-fits-all model and replace it with rules backed by the best available evidence. The research is due for completion in November, after which officials will review the findings for any changes required to current rules. This is likely to be a topic of discussion at the Deer Industry New Zealand Conference in Palmerston North next week.   Government to wind up Broadcasting Standards Authority The Broadcasting Standards Authority is set to be disestablished, with the Government moving to replace it with industry self-regulation as New Zealand's media landscape continues to shift. Media and Communications Minister Paul Goldsmith says the current framework was designed for a broadcasting environment that is rapidly disappearing — and no longer reflects how audiences consume content across streaming, podcasts and online platforms such as CountryWide Connect. The expectation is that the New Zealand Media Council, which already oversees print media and some broadcasters, will become the primary regulator for journalism. Goldsmith says self-regulation is the most practical way to level the playing field across platforms. Legislation to repeal the relevant provisions of the Broadcasting Act will be drafted in the coming months. The BSA will continue operating until that legislation passes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.