Federated Farmers Podcast

Manawatū contract milker Riley O’Neill shares his top tips for people going contract milking for the first time in the coming season, or for existing contract milkers moving farms. Riley also discusses his own progression through the dairy sector, and his recent experience of moving to a new farm and new part of New Zealand. This is good, solid advice that's relevant to most dairy farmers, but particularly new contract milkers. Riley's social media channel:www.instagram.com/theeudderfarmers Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Shanice Young didn’t grow up in farming, but she’s right in the mix now. From Wellington city kid to Bay of Plenty dairy farmer, Shanice shares how she found her way into farming and ended up leading her local Young Farmers Club, growing it rapidly from six members to around 30, while also running Surfing For Farmers and supporting her local Rural Support Trust.We talk about her start in farming, what’s kept her in the industry, and what young farmers care about right now. She also reflects on wellbeing, community and the future of farming. This is a great yarn with a top young leader who's fizzing on farming. Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

To mark Anzac Weekend 2026, we’re bringing you a special episode that reaches back into one of New Zealand’s most remarkable wartime stories.In November 1918, during the final days of World War I, New Zealand soldiers achieved the extraordinary by liberating the French town of Le Quesnoy without destroying it. Many of those soldiers were farmers, young Kiwis who'd left behind their land, livestock, and livelihoods to serve on the other side of the world.More than a century later, their legacy still lives on not just here in New Zealand, but in Le Quesnoy itself, and the bond remains as strong as ever.In this episode, we’re joined by Jacob Siermans from the New Zealand Liberation Museum – Te Arawhata, located in the very town the Kiwis freed. As Project Manager of Operations and Marketing, Jacob shares the story of Le Quesnoy, how it’s remembered today, and why it continues to resonate so deeply with both locals and New Zealanders.Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

In this episode, we sit down with Manawatū farmer Ian Strahan, who runs 440 hectares of rolling country at Kiwitea, finishing around 16,000 lambs and up to 1000 cattle each year.Ian, Manawatū–Rangitīkei Federated Farmers president, talks about growing up on the family farm, the influence of his father – legendary All Black Sam Strahan – and how a mix of old-school values and modern thinking has shaped his approach to farming today.We dive into how his system's evolved into a highly efficient operation focused on strong margins, attention to detail and constant improvement. He also takes on the bigger challenges facing farming, including the growing gap between farmers and the public, and why social licence is becoming just as important as productivity.Along the way, Ian shares some great advice for younger farmers, the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, and why simple systems – done well – consistently outperform.Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

When you get an unexpected windfall as a farmer, what should you actually do with it? Is it just another payout to roll back into the farm, or a rare opportunity to reset your financial position?With many Fonterra farmers waking up this week to a significant lump sum in their accounts, we asked Forsyth Barr investment adviser Michael Raynes to unpack the key decisions farmers should be thinking about.Michael walks through five options, ranging from reinvestment and debt reduction to diversification and long-term planning. It’s all about making smart calls now that you won’t regret in five years’ time.A quick note: nothing discussed in this episode is personal financial advice — it’s general in nature. If you’re considering your own situation, we recommend speaking with a registered financial adviser.Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Labour’s agriculture spokesperson Jo Luxton joins us for a candid chat about her upbringing, the tough chapters in her life, and her connection to farming.She shares what she’s hearing from farmers, what she'd prioritise if she became Minister of Agriculture, and how she responds when farmers say Labour hates them.Feds and Labour don’t always agree, but it’s important we have a relationship and can talk things through when we need to. Jo sits at the centre of that relationship, keeping lines of communication open on the issues that matter most to farmers. Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Silver Fern Farms chief executive Dan Boulton joins us to break down the company’s 2025 turnaround, including what’s driving the strong results and whether better prices are here to stay. We dive into the challenges behind falling livestock numbers, the pressures on processors’ margins, and the role of global markets and geopolitics in shaping New Zealand red meat.Dan also shares insights on the balance between value-add strategies and efficiency, the ongoing importance of sustainability claims, and what farmers can do on-farm to prepare for future opportunities. Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Fuel supply is front of mind for farmers right now, with rising uncertainty around availability, pricing and logistics.In this episode, Fern Energy CEO Chris Gourley joins us to cut through the noise and explain what’s really going on. Are we at risk of running short? What’s driving the pressure in the supply chain? And what does it mean for on-farm operations in the weeks and months ahead?Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Do Kiwi farmers need to be concerned about getting their hands on fertiliser?Ravensdown chief operating officer Mike Whitty joins us to explain how conflict in the Middle East is shaping the global fertiliser market right now.He tackles the key question on farmers’ minds: how much fertiliser is actually on hand, and what’s being done to secure supply ahead of spring.Whitty also explains where New Zealand’s fertiliser comes from, how exposed we are to international volatility, and what’s driving price movements across key products like urea and DAP.This is a clear-eyed look at what’s really happening behind some of the alarmist headlines, and what it means for Kiwi farmers.Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Stretching across nearly 68,000 hectares in northern Southland, Glenaray is a sheep, beef and deer station that’s quietly challenging assumptions about high-country farming.In this episode, we’re joined by station manager Simon Lee and owner David Pinckney to explore the rich history of Glenaray, and how it operates today, including using innovative approaches like Halter. They also discuss the strong culture behind their team, and why they've agreed to host this year's High Country Field Day on March 27. This is a fascinating conversation about a type of farming, and part of New Zealand, that few Kiwis get to see. Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

In this episode, Waikato lawyer Andrew Clements explains why farm succession can fail even when the balance sheet looks rock solid. He breaks down the five types of capital that really determine long-term success, and why focusing on just one can undermine the rest.Andrews shares real examples of farming families that have learned this stuff the hard way, and he provides practical advice on how to build a farm business with something stronger than just a healthy bottom line. This episode will challenge how you think about wealth and farm succession.Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

New Zealand's arable farmers are facing some of their toughest conditions in years, with margins collapsing and growers exiting the industry.It's a "crisis" that will have flow-on effects for dairy, sheep and beef farmers, says David Birkett, Federated Farmers’ national arable chair. Birkett and Chris Dillon, an arable farmer in Southland and former Southland president, join us on this episode to explain what's going on, what the mood's like out there, and what needs to change for arable farmers to start making money again. This is a must-listen for all farmers. Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

In this episode, we’re joined by Waikato dairy farmer Carla de Wet, who shares an honest look at building a career in farming as a young woman today.Originally from South Africa, Carla talks about her journey to New Zealand just before Covid, settling into rural life, and finding her place in a family dairy business. As former chair of the Morrinsville–Ngarua Young Farmers club, she reflects on leadership, confidence, and the value of getting involved beyond the farm gate.Being relatively new to this country, she has some really interesting perspectives on our farming systems, the role farmers play, and the access we have to politicians. We also explore what’s motivating young farmers right now — and what’s worrying them — from wellbeing and workload to major changes like KiwiSaver access. Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

In this episode, we sit down with Mike Siermans, the new CEO of Federated Farmers, to talk about what’s next for the organisation and for farmers.Mike shares his journey from growing up around farming in rural South Auckland to a commercial career in the pharmaceuticals industry — including helping launch Viagra in New Zealand — and why he’s now taken on one of the most influential roles in rural New Zealand.We discuss the challenges and opportunities facing farmers, how Federated Farmers can strengthen its advocacy, and how to modernise a 125-year-old organisation while staying true to its roots.Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

This is the first episode in a new series where we sit down with good keen Kiwi farmers and simply have a chat – how they got into farming, what drives them, and what they’ve learned along the way. We’ll release one each month. For our first ‘Meet the farmer’, we’re joined by Jimmy Emmett, a South Canterbury dairy farmer who took an unconventional path into the industry. A self-confessed city boy, Jimmy swapped hospitality management for contract milking 17 years ago and hasn’t looked back. He’s now the South Canterbury dairy chair for Federated Farmers, was named Dairy Advocate of the Year in 2025, and before all that, was running a popular bar in downtown Christchurch. Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

He’s the most recognisable voice in rural New Zealand but you’ll usually hear The Country host Jamie Mackay asking the questions rather than answering them. In this episode, Jamie sits on the other side of the mic to reflect on his early farming career, the twists and turns that led him into broadcasting, and how a rugby-mad bloke from Southland ended up shaping national conversations from the studio and the showgrounds.He shares some of the stories he’s collected along the way, including his favourite guests over the years, some forgettable moments, that infamous ‘red shirt’ moment with John Key, and meeting Helen Clark after a big night out with the Mad Butcher.Beyond the laughs, Jamie also opens up about the causes close to his heart, why he’s never been afraid to say what he thinks, and what motivates him to keep standing up for rural communities.Honest, funny and full of insight – this is Jamie Mackay, unfiltered.Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

What actually happens to wool after it leaves the sheep’s back? In this episode, Breanna Hayes, supply growth manager at The New Zealand Merino Company, and Nathan Watt, trading manager at New Zealand Wool Services International, explain how the wool industry works, why strong wool in particular faces challenges, and what farmers can do to improve outcomes. They unpack who the players are in the supply chain, share insights on the future of wool, and discuss why they're feeling confident that wool prices will continue to lift. Useful linksNew Zealand Wool Services InternationalThe New Zealand Merino CompanyGot a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

What does the rise of artificial intelligence mean for Kiwi farmers? Where does gene technology fit into New Zealand’s farming future — and what are the real opportunities and risks? And which global trends should farmers be paying close attention to right now?In this episode, we’re joined by Jarred Mair, chief insights officer at MPI. Jarred has spoken at a number of Federated Farmers events around the country, sparking plenty of interest and discussion, and we sat down with him to unpack the big picture.We cover emerging technologies farmers need on their radar, how innovation could reshape on-farm decision-making, and Jarred’s long-term outlook for New Zealand agriculture.Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Homekill is booming in New Zealand, and Edgecumbe butcher Toby Barkla is right at the centre of it. In this episode, Toby explains why more Kiwis are choosing homekill, the pressures facing rural meat processors, and why he believes regulated mobile and micro abattoirs could be the future of local meat. He also shares his own business journey with Plains Butchery, the challenges around waste and by-products, and how innovation could help rural communities keep feeding themselves. Plains ButcheryGot a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

In this episode, we speak with two farmers who’ve taken different approaches to diversification as a way to build resilience, create new income, and keep life interesting.King Country dairy farmer Michael Woodward has added Angora goats to his system to tap into global demand for mohair, alongside a marketing and exporting business. Sheep and beef farmer Laura Morrison has diversified into agritourism, running a farm-based B&B near Marton.Both are Federated Farmers leaders, and they share practical, real-world advice for farmers thinking about diversification – what’s worked, what hasn’t, and how the benefits can go beyond just financial.Useful links Mohair Fibres NZ Mohair Producers NZFarmers Weekly article: ‘Mohair wins ad boost to convert sheep farmers’The GulliesFarmers Weekly article: ‘When knowing the ‘enemy’ is part of success’ Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

After several years focused on restoring farmer confidence, the conversation is shifting – from fighting roadblocks to driving the sector forward.In this conversation, Federated Farmers national president Wayne Langford reflects on a landmark year for rural New Zealand and what it will take for New Zealand farming to be genuinely world-leading again.We unpack the major policy wins delivered in 2025, including reduced red tape, real cost savings for farmers, and a Government that’s finally backing the sector rather than holding it back.Wayne shares what he’s most proud of from the past year, the toughest calls he’s had to make as president, and how the organisation’s long-standing policy priorities are tracking. We also look ahead to the next election, the challenges still facing farmers at a regional level, and what it will take to turn recent wins into lasting progress.Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Marc Gascoigne, a Cambridge dairy farmer and Farmstrong Champion, joins us to share his wellbeing journey, including what it was like to suffer in silence for years and what helped him turn things around, including an unexpected conversation with his brother.We’re also joined by Farmstrong CEO Gerard Vaughan, who helped establish Farmstrong in 2015 and has spent years turning research and psychology into practical tools that actually work for farmers.As well as Marc’s personal story, you’ll hear about the most common stressors farmers face, what stops them asking for help, and the habits, mindsets and simple actions that make the biggest difference – even during busy seasons like calving and lambing.This is a practical, honest conversation about what really helps farmers stay well, and how we keep normalising these conversations across the rural sector.Useful linksFarmstrong.co.nzJason Herrick’s mental health story | EP 18Mental health on the land – what’s the plan? | EP 48‘How are you really doing?’ — Bex Green’s mental health story | EP 55How farmers can lead well when the pressure is on | EP 60Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Interest rates have been shifting fast, and many farmers are wondering if now is the time to fix or float their loans. To help cut through the noise, we’re joined by NZAB founder and director Scott Wishart, who explains what’s happening in the current lending environment and how farmers can approach their lending decisions with confidence. We cover the pros and cons of fixing vs floating, common mistakes to avoid, how to think about term length, and the strategies farmers are using to manage risk, cashflow and uncertainty. Scott also answers questions asked by a young farmer for this episode specifically, including whether fixing ever makes sense if you can ride out the tougher periods.If you’re reviewing your loan structure or planning for the next season, Scott’s insights will prove valuable.  Useful links: Rural banking inquiry: 'Let's get it underway' | EP 03How farmers can unlock better banking deals | EP 52Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

British farmers are facing many of the same pressures as Kiwi farmers – rising costs, land use change, tougher environmental rules, and greater public scrutiny.Tom Bradshaw, president of the UK’s National Farmers’ Union, joins us to share what’s happening on the ground, with the looming new inheritance tax of greatest concern. Tom also talks about what’s happening with farmer confidence, public perception, climate policy, Jeremy Clarkson, and more.Hear about the challenges, wins and day-to-day realities of farming in the UK, and how it compares to life on the farm in New Zealand.Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Thinking about entering a farm equity partnership, or just curious about how they work? In this episode, rural accountant Joe Morgan breaks it all down. Joe, a director at GFA in Te Awamutu, explains what equity partnerships are, how they differ from arrangements like sharemilking and contract milking, and how they can fit into succession planning.He shares real-life stories, highlights common pitfalls, and outlines the key dos and don'ts to help ensure everyone benefits. Useful linksDairyNZ's equity partnership resourcesGot a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

For decades, grazing kept New Zealand’s Crown land in check, supporting healthy landscapes and holding back pests and weeds. But when livestock were removed, those problems exploded. In this episode, Jim Ward and Simon Cameron explain why carefully managed, low-impact grazing could help reverse the decline. Jim is the former manager of Molesworth Station and current Federated Farmers high country co-chair, while Simon is Federated Farmers meat and wool vice chair. They share lessons from the high country, the challenges on Crown and conservation land, and what needs to change to make this practical again.Useful linksHow grazing can save our high countryGot a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Feral pests like deer pigs are exploding in number across New Zealand, while wilding pines are marching across some of our most iconic landscapes. Farmers are seeing the fallout every day: destroyed pasture, lost production, biosecurity risks, and farmland slowly buried beneath unwanted trees.In this episode we’re joined by Federated Farmers meat & wool chair Richard Dawkins and executive member Ruby Mulinder to unpack the scale of the problem and what it will take to turn the tide.We look at why pest numbers have surged, the impact of neighbouring conservation and forestry land, and the critical gaps in current pest management settings. Then we dive into wilding pines – how fast they’re spreading, why Richard calls them “a ticking time bomb”, and the serious threat they pose to productive farmland and biodiversity.Finally, we explore the solutions, like a national strategy, greater funding, and even practical changes on farm. Other podcasts on this topic: Carbon forestry crisis – the view from Southland | EP 49The science of pest management | EP 21Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Running a farm means leadership under pressure is part of the job. When the weather turns, the workload spikes or the unexpected hits, there’s no pause button. Southland leadership trainer and former military veteran Tony Groves helps farmers, team supervisors and rural professionals make better decisions when the heat is on.  After a hugely popular first appearance, Tony is back to share new insights from the farm businesses he’s working with right now.  We dive into practical tools to:  • Stay calm and clear in crisis • Communicate so there’s less friction • Execute when time and energy are tight • Build trust and a stronger team culture • Make fast calls without shutting people out Useful links Different battles, same pressures: an army veteran’s advice for farmers | EP 28 Halo Training Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

It’s been more than two years since the Government promised to let young farmers use their KiwiSaver to buy their first home or farm — but nothing has changed. In this episode, we talk with Kylee Smit, a Cambridge-based mortgage adviser who works with many young farmers and rural workers trying to get on the property ladder. Kylee explains why the current KiwiSaver rules don’t work for farmers, the frustration it’s causing across rural communities, and how fixing the system could open up huge opportunities for the next generation in agriculture.Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Contract milking remains a key stepping stone in New Zealand dairying, but what does it take to succeed in this role today? In this episode, Dairy Holdings chief executive Colin Glass shares his experience running one of the country’s largest contract milking systems. He discusses the skills, mindset, and strategies that set top contract milkers apart, how the model is evolving, and practical advice for those starting or growing their careers in dairying.Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Alliance Group farmer-shareholders are facing one of the biggest decisions in New Zealand’s red meat sector in decades: whether to approve a proposed $250 million joint venture with Europe’s Dawn Meats Group. In this episode, we’re joined by Professor Keith Woodford, an experienced agribusiness commentator and former Lincoln University professor, to break down what’s on the table.Keith shares his insights on the deal, including its potential benefits, risks, and implications for farmer control, processing, marketing and long-term returns. He also explores whether there are any alternatives, the financial pressures at play, and what the deal would mean for competition in New Zealand's processing sector. Whether you’re a farmer-shareholder weighing your vote or simply interested in the future of New Zealand agribusiness, this episode provides a clear, independent perspective on one of the sector’s most consequential decisions.Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Fonterra is at a crossroads, with its proposed sale of Mainland Group raising big questions for its farmer suppliers, the wider dairy sector, and everyday consumers.In this episode, we’re joined by Matt Montgomerie, a senior analyst at Forsyth Barr, to unpack what’s really going on. Matt explains Fonterra’s financial position, the rationale behind the Mainland sale, and what it could mean for farmers and the sector. He also shares insights into the co-op’s long-term strategy and global dairy trends.On another topic, he also offers some advice on how farmers can build wealth beyond the farm gate. Just a reminder that nothing in this podcast should be taken as personal financial advice. It’s general in nature. If you’re seeking advice specific to your situation, please talk to a registered financial adviser.Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

It’s Mental Health Awareness Week, and North Canterbury dairy farmer Bex Green is opening up about one of the toughest periods of her life. Between a severe injury, raising three kids, and running a 1000-cow contract milking operation with her husband, Bex also stepped up to lead farmers in her region. But behind her public role, she was struggling deeply with her mental health. Bex openly shares the challenges she faced, what helped her recover – including the decision to compete in Coast to Coast – and her message to other rural New Zealanders who might be doing it tough.Her main message? Farmers need to get better at asking each other one simple question that could make all the difference. Where to get help:Rural Support Trust: 0800 RURAL HELPDepression Helpline: 0800 111 757Lifeline: 0800 543 354Need To Talk? Call or text 1737Samaritans: 0800 726 666Other podcasts you might like: Mental health on the land – what’s the plan? | EP 48Hugh Jackson on farming, balance and backing himself | EP 47Different battles, same pressures: an army veteran’s advice for farmers | EP 28Jason Herrick’s mental health story | EP 18Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Farmers across New Zealand are voicing growing frustration with regional councils, resource consents, and the cost of compliance. Nothing has captured that frustration quite like Canterbury farmer David Clark’s recent Facebook post, which outlined his family’s ordeal in trying to renew a straightforward consent for their mixed arable, seed and livestock farm. The post struck a nerve, was shared widely across rural communities, and has drawn sharp attention from the Beehive.In this episode, David joins us to tell his story firsthand — the stress, the cost, and the uncertainty his family has faced just trying to keep their farm running. We’re also joined by Federated Farmers vice president Colin Hurst, who explains how widespread these problems are, why short-term consents are such a headache, and what needs to change in the system.Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Dairy, beef and sheep farmers are all enjoying strong returns right now – but as every farmer knows, the good times don’t last forever. In this episode, Federated Farmers dairy chair Karl Dean shares practical advice on how to turn today’s profits into long-term security. Karl explains why reducing debt should be front of mind, what types of on-farm investments make sense, and how to balance reinvesting with putting money aside for future downturns. He also touches on succession planning, the importance of sitting down with your bank or accountant, and the risks that could knock farmgate returns off course. You’ll hear what farmers can do today to make the most of strong prices, strengthen their businesses, and prepare for the inevitable cycle ahead. Other podcasts you might like: How farmers can unlock better banking deals | EP 52 Bridging the farm ownership gap with Sarah How | EP 41 More than tax: the benefits of a good rural accountant | EP 29 How to get a cheaper interest rate | EP 05  Rural banking inquiry: 'Let's get it underway' | EP 3  Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Scott Wishart from agricultural loan broker NZAB joins us to discuss how farmers can take more control of their banking outcomes. Scott shares practical advice on how to become “bank-ready,” what information to gather beyond budgets and financials, and how a well-prepared farmer can unlock a better deal. He also explains the value of engaging multiple lenders, the role of non-bank lenders, and common mistakes farmers make when approaching their bank. You’ll hear the steps farmers can take today to strengthen their position, drive competition, and ultimately secure better deals. Links How to get a cheaper interest rate | EP 05 Rural banking inquiry: 'Let's get it underway' | EP 3 Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Farmers rely on rural media to stay informed – but shrinking print runs, social media, and changing news habits are putting pressure on traditional outlets.  In this episode, we sit down with Dean Williamson, CEO of AgriHQ and publisher of Farmers Weekly, to discuss the challenges facing rural media. We explore the changing media landscape, how younger farmers are consuming news differently, and why Dean believes connecting rural New Zealand is more important than ever. We also ask: what legacy does he hope to leave behind? Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Farmers have long been saying they’re getting a raw deal from the banks – higher interest rates, tougher lending rules, fewer options, and growing pressure around environmental reporting. That’s why Federated Farmers pushed so hard for a rural banking inquiry. Now, after months of hearings and submissions, the Finance and Expenditure Committee has released its final report. It calls for changes to capital requirements, new transparency rules, and stronger political oversight of the big banks. But will this really deliver a fair deal for farmers? What will it mean for farming families, and how do we make sure the recommendations turn into lasting change? To unpack it all, we’re joined by Mark Hooper, Federated Farmers’ new banking spokesperson, and Richard McIntyre, the former spokesperson who helped lead the fight for the inquiry. Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Carbon forestry is spreading fast, and the impacts are becoming impossible to ignore for farmers in regions like Southland. In this episode, we’re joined by Dean Rabbidge, Southland Federated Farmers meat & wool chair, to talk about what he’s seeing on the ground. He describes the heartbreak of whole, highly productive farms being converted into pine plantations, and rural towns slowly hollowing out.  He explains how the rise of carbon forestry is affecting local communities, contractors, shearers, and processors – and why it’s a serious threat to the red meat sector. We also dig into the Government’s promises to rein in carbon forestry, what’s actually being delivered, and what policy changes are urgently needed to stop the damage.  Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

In this episode, we dig into the mental health challenges facing farmers and rural communities, and ask: is the support on offer actually working?Matt Doocey, New Zealand’s first dedicated Minister for Mental Health, joins us to discuss what’s changing, what still needs to, and whether rural voices are truly being heard.Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford shares what rural people are telling him they really need, the barriers that still exist, what support services need to look like on the ground, and the role farming leaders must play in driving change.Where to get helpIf you or someone you know needs support, free help is available 24/7 by calling or texting 1737 to talk to a trained counsellor.You can also call Rural Support Trust on 0800 RURAL HELP or 0800 787 254. Farmstrong is another great place to go for practical tools and strategies for managing workload, stress and pressure, and to hear other farmers talk about mental health. Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

A month since he won the prestigious NZ Young Farmer of the Year Award, we catch up with Hugh Jackson to find out how he’s feeling about the win and get to know a bit better. We dig into his background, his personal goals, his mental health story, his passion for the Young Farmers organisation, and what makes him tick. We also talk about winning the award, including some of the strategies he employed as part of his preparation, and we also hear about the trip to Tanzania he’s just returned from, and, interestingly, how the name on his birth certificate isn’t Hugh Jackson. LinksHugh Jackson crowned 2025 FMG Young Farmer of the YearFMG Young Farmer of the Year - VideoGot a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

In this episode we’re digging into a hot topic in the primary sector – regulation of agrichemicals and the role of the Environmental Protection Authority, or EPA.David Birkett, Federated Farmers’ biosecurity spokesperson and arable chair, has been at the coalface of conversations around agrichemical approvals. We discuss what’s going wrong with the EPA process, how it’s affecting Kiwi farmers, and what needs to happen to ensure we have the tools to protect crops and pasture without unnecessary roadblocks. LinksFarmers Weekly article: 'Alternative grass grub weapon now urgent'Farmers Weekly article: 'Chemical ban would ‘knee-cap’ grass grub fight' Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

In this episode, we take a hard look at where things are at for the red meat and wool sectors right now, including what’s driving the strong red meat returns, but also pain points like processor viability, falling stock numbers, productive farmland going into carbon forestry, and the ongoing struggles for wool growers.  Richard Dawkins, Federated Farmers meat and wool chair, brings insights from farmers on the ground, and Mel Croad, senior analyst at AgriHQ, unpacks what’s driving global demand and market movements.Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Legal issues on the farm can be stressful — and often dealt with only when things go wrong. In this episode, you'll hear from lawyer Simon Middlemiss about the most common legal and employment problems farmers face, and how to avoid them. From staff contracts to handling disputes, Simon shares practical tips all farmers should know, plus the basics every good employer needs to get right. Whether you’re dealing with an issue now or want to stay ahead of trouble, this episode will help you understand your legal risks and where to turn for support when you need it. Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

We’re continuing the theme of farm succession by chatting with Peter Templeton, a fifth-generation Southland dairy farmer, who spent five months travelling the USA and Europe as a Nuffield scholar, researching what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to farm succession.He met with over 100 farmers, their advisors, and industry experts to paint a wide picture of ownership structures, financial strategies, and family dynamics that make or break the succession process.He joins us to share his findings, warn about common pitfalls that trip families up, and talk us through strategies that lead to successful, stress-free transitions.LinksPeter's Nuffield report: 'Putting the Success back into Succession'Farm succession planning with Joe Morgan | EP 38Bridging the farm ownership gap with Sarah How | Episode 41Farmers Weekly article: Many farmers pondering succession, sellingGot a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

When we talk about assets on farm, we often think of land, livestock, and machinery. But there’s one asset that’s even more important — and that’s you, the farmer.  Farming can be risky, physically and financially, and too often we overlook how vulnerable we are when we don’t have the right support in place for ourselves and our families.In this episode, we’re joined by Ash Krishna from FMG to talk about the bigger picture when it comes to protecting farmers' health, lives and livelihoods. He shares some real-life stories of farmers who’ve experienced the unexpected on-farm but got through it because they’d put plans in place. He also breaks down the common myths and misconceptions around insurance and explains how to get started if it’s something you’ve been putting in the too-hard basket.We get it – insurance isn’t the most exciting topic under the sun.But it sure can have a big impact on your business, particularly when something goes wrong, and you’re caught without it. Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Farm ownership is becoming harder for young Kiwis, and traditional succession is no longer working for many farming families. In this episode, we hear from Sarah How, founder of Landify, about the challenges and opportunities in farm succession and ownership. Sarah explains why succession is getting tougher, explores alternative ownership models, and offers practical advice for both older farmers planning succession and young people looking to get on the land — even without a family farm background. Useful linksLandifyJoe Morgan in episode 29: 'More than tax: the benefits of a good rural accountant'Hot Tips for Successful Farm SuccessionRural Coach’s Free Succession Planning eBookKeeping Farming in the Family: A guide to succession planning for farmers and their familiesGot a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Foot-and-mouth disease is one of the most serious animal diseases globally, and while New Zealand has never had an outbreak, the risk is very real. If the disease were to make it to our shores the consequences would be huge for our rural communities and the wider economy. To help us understand the risks, the plans in place, and what farmers need to know, we're joined by Dr. Mary van Andel, the Chief Veterinary Officer at the Ministry for Primary Industries. Mary leads the national veterinary team responsible for protecting the health of New Zealand’s animals and has a key role in disease preparedness and response.LinksAdvice to farmers and livestock owners about foot and mouth disease | NZ Government About foot and mouth disease | NZ GovernmentGot a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Gallagher’s Sarah Adams returns to explore the latest in agri-tech, from virtual fencing to smart ear tags and integrated data systems. She shares insights from U.S. farming trends, discusses adoption barriers, and offers practical advice for tech-curious Kiwi farmers keen to boost efficiency and make smarter on-farm decisions. LinksVirtual fencing and precision farming | EP 10 - Federated Farmers Podcast | Podcast on SpotifyGot a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

Farm succession—it’s one of the biggest challenges facing New Zealand’s rural families. How do you pass the farm on to the next generation in a way that’s fair, makes financial sense, and keeps relationships intact? Our guest today is Joe Morgan, an accountant and director at GFA in Te Awamutu, who is back by popular demand. Joe's here to cover the main challenges farmers are facing with farm succession and the role of trusts and other business structures. He’ll also walk us through some strategies for balancing inheritance between farming and non-farming children, and why getting the right professional advice early is critical.LinksJoe Morgan in episode 29: 'More than tax: the benefits of a good rural accountant'GFA Chartered AccountantsHot Tips for Successful Farm SuccessionRural Coach’s Free Succession Planning eBookKeeping Farming in the Family: A guide to succession planning for farmers and their familiesGot a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.