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 21
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How farmers can lead well when the pressure is on | EP 60
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
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The KiwiSaver roadblock facing young farmers | EP 59
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.
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Contract milking insights from Colin Glass | EP 58
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.
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Unpacking the Alliance–Dawn Meats proposal with Professor Keith Woodford | EP 57
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.
A podcast for Kiwi farmers to stay up to date with the latest news and views shaping the future of farming in New Zealand. Tune in every fortnight as we take a deep dive into the big issues. Hosted by Ben Chapman-Smith.
New Zealand