Farmers Weekly Podcast

In this episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast, senior reporter Richard Rennie discusses the challenges and options for farmer burials, while legal hurdles in fruit intellectual property protection are explored. AgriHQ senior analyst Mel Croad provides insights into global beef and lamb trade, highlighting positive market trends. And Matt Hand from New Zealand Merino talks about the revitalisation of the strong wool sector and opportunities for dairy exports to India.

News Wrap | Is a farm a final resting place?
1:43 – Senior reporter Richard Rennie has taken a look at the logistics of being buried on farm. While it is possible, there are many regulatory hurdles to clear, and some say it could actually lead to anguish for those left behind, should the farm need to be sold.

Market Insights | Optimism backed by export value
10:06 – The optimism seen at early sales around the country is valid, with export returns for lamb and beef looking to stay strong for the rest of the year, AgriHQ senior analyst Mel Croad says. While there is some volatility in terms of trade access and tariffs, enduring demand from key markets looks set to fuel farmgate returns throughout 2026.

Feature | Strong wool contracts a growing trend
19:37 – Matt Hands of the NZ Merino Company reports that more than 90% of the strong wool it sold last year was on contract to international brands. And, he says more and more brands are making the move to natural fibers, once they can be assured of steady supply and quality.

Final word | Dairy’s opportunity in India
31:41 – While the proposed FTA with India didn’t grant access for the bulk of our dairy exports, it does allow for a lasting partnership to begin. With high-value proteins and infant formula sought after there, why don’t we focus on the opportunities we now have, rather than the commodity trade we sought?

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Matt Hand of the NZ Merino Company reports that more than 90% of the strong wool it sold last year was on contract to international brands. And, he says more and more brands are making the move to natural fibers, once they can be assured of steady supply and quality.

Senior reporter Richard Rennie has taken a look at the logistics of being buried on-farm. While it is possible, there are many regulatory hurdles to clear, and some say it could actually lead to anguish for those left behind, should the farm need to be sold.

The optimism seen at early sales around the country is valid, with export returns for lamb and beef looking to stay strong for the rest of the year, AgriHQ senior analyst Mel Croad says. While there is some volatility in terms of trade access and tariffs, enduring demand from key markets looks set to fuel farmgate returns throughout 2026.

This week, Dr Victoria Hatton talks about premium NZ-made food, Neal Wallace discusses a new Farmers Weekly special report on whether the co-op model is still fit for purpose, and Suz Bremner breaks down record ewe prices and renewed confidence in the sheep sector.

News Wrap | Our co-operative future?
0.02 - Senior reporter Neal Wallace is here to discuss a new special report launched in Farmers Weekly this week. With some of our big co-operative battling for survival in recent years, is the co-op model still fit for purpose? 

Market Insights | Ewe beauty!
07:47 The ewe fair at Stortford Lodge earlier this week saw record prices paid for all ewe classes. AgriHQ senior analyst Suz Bremner says after the steady decline in the sheep flock it’s great to see confidence returning to the sector, on the back of consistently high lamb returns.

Feature | A premium Christmas dinner
15:58 - FoodHQ chief executive Dr Victoria Hatton joins the show to talk about her quest to buy premium, NZ-made food for her family this Christmas. She says quality, sustainability and story were on her shopping list.