CountryWide CONNECT

This episode explores the recent submissions and discussions around New Zealand's proposed Resource Management Act (RMA) reforms, local government reform, and the integration of environmental and indigenous rights considerations. Grant McCallum, Deputy Chair of the Environment Select Committee, provides insights into the legislative process, stakeholder concerns, and future implications. "Most peo...

This interview with ruminant nutritionist Ajmal Khan explores the critical stages of rumen development in calves, the impact of early nutrition on lifetime performance, and ongoing research to optimize dairy herd longevity and productivity. "Feed type and age influence rumen development," says Ajmal Khan, "Early development impacts lifetime milk yield." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rumen Develop...

In this insightful interview, author & coach Lance Burdett discussses how to manage emotions and mental resilience during times of uncertainty, with practical tools rooted in history and psychology. The former crisis negoitator shares strategies for staying grounded, controlling reactions, and fostering emotional well-being amidst uncertain times. "Control your reactions because you cannot con...

In this episode, Campbell Parker, CEO, DairyNZ, discusses the recent levy vote results and how this will support the ongoing science and innovation efforts of the industry body.  "Data should grow the pie on farm, not just for measuring stakes," says Campbell Parker. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 00:29 Recent Dairy NZ Levy Vote and Results 01:28 Voter Turnout and Farmer Eng...

In this interview, New Zealand's new Associate Minister of Agriculture, Mike Butterick, shares his thoughts on the current challenges in the rural sector, and the government's response to issues like fuel supply as well as land use policies. "I'm living my passion for farming with this new role," says Mike Butterick. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the show and guest 00:27 Mike Butler's swearing-in...

This episode features a detailed discussion on current fuel and supply chain issues affecting New Zealand farmers, including price forecasts, supply challenges, and adaptive farming practices. David Birkett shares his insights on how farmers are managing costs with a move to sustainable farming adaptations amid high diesel prices. "Farmers need to push costs up the value chain," says David Birkett...

This episode features Fern Energy CEO Chris Gourley discussing the current volatile fuel market due to the Iran War and the supply distrubution challenges. He says there is a need for government support for the productive sector amid diesel rising past $4/Litre but also discusses on-farm energy resilence strategies. "Fuel prices are going through $4 a litre," says Chris Gourley, CEO of Fern Energy...

In this episode, Sam McIvor, CEO of OSPRI, discusses the evolution of agricultural systems in New Zealand, focusing on NAIT system improvements, TB eradication efforts, and the future of farming technology. Gain insights into the challenges and innovations shaping the rural landscape. "I thought NAIT was a waste of time, but I was wrong," says Sam McIvor, CEO of OSPRI. "NAIT is old technology...

In this episode, Conan Moynihan from GroundShift discusses innovative farming strategies focused on resilience, profitability, and sustainability amidst current challenges. Key topics include farm system adaptation, resource efficiency, and future-proofing agriculture. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Conan Moynihan and GroundShift 01:06 Background on Quorum Sense and regional farming support 02:17...

The Government is lending 18 million dollars to the backers of a major water storage project in Central Hawke's Bay, reviving a concept that has been decades in the making. Associate Minister for Regional Development Mark Patterson announced the loan from the regional infrastructure fund today, which will fund engineering, environmental and commercial work to determine if the project is truly viab...

Global dairy prices have fallen for the first time this year, with the average price at the fortnightly GlobalDairyTrade auction dropping three point four percent. Whole milk powder, which directly influences farmer payouts, eased less than one percent, while butter took the hardest hit, falling eight point one percent. cheddar and mozzarella also fell sharply. The price softness reflects an overs...

==================================================================== Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has announced a ministerial reshuffle, with key changes for the agricultural and environment sectors. Nicola Grigg picks up the Environment portfolio, while Mike Butterick joins as Minister for Land Information and Associate Minister of Agriculture — appointments that will be closely watched...

Show Rundown: CountryWide Connect Wednesday 8th April 2026 Today we tackle the escalating fuel security crisis and provide practical tools for farmers to navigate the logistical and mental pressures of an unsettled rural economy. Chris Gourley (CEO, Farmlands Energy) An urgent update on the diesel supply crunch. Chris discusses regional exposure, the drivers behind the current pressure, and what f...

Show Rundown: CountryWide Connect Tuesday 7th April 2026 In today’s episode, we navigate the corridors of power and the practicalities of the paddock, covering everything from RMA reform to "super" El Niño preparations. Grant McCallum (Environment Select Committee) An update on the Resource Management Act (RMA) and health and safety law reforms. We discuss what the committee is hearin...

Show Rundown: CountryWide Connect: Thursday 2nd April 2026 Today we explore the shifting landscapes of rural leadership, innovative wool technology, and the personal crossroads facing the next generation of farmers. Rob Scott (Southland District Mayor) Is Southland a test case for New Zealand? Mayor Rob Scott discusses why local councils are inviting the Local Government Commission to review their...

Show Rundown: CountryWide Connect: Wednesday 1st April 2026 In today’s episode, we examine the lifelines of rural New Zealand—from fuel resilience and regulatory bottlenecks to hunter safety and the trans-Tasman supply crisis. Chris Gourley (CEO, Fern Energy) An essential look at rural fuel distribution. Chris discusses the resilience of our supply chains and what farmers should (and s...

Show Rundown: CountryWide Connect Tuesday 31st March 2026 Join Andy and Sarah as we celebrate a special 87th birthday for Andy’s mum and dive into the critical issues of trade fairness, economic shifts, and innovative farm ownership. Walt Cavendish (Fair for Farmers) Waikato dairy farmer Walt Cavendish discusses the "Fair for Farmers" campaign, questioning why New Zealand imports products th...

Show Rundown: CountryWide Connect Monday 30th March 2026 Welcome to the premiere of CountryWide Connect, your bridge to rural New Zealand. Today, we tackle the volatility facing our primary sector, from energy security to the future of food processing.  Hon Nicola Grigg (Associate Minister of Agriculture) The Minister discusses fuel supply guarantees for farmers, the impact of global tra...

Imagine eliminating hazardous chemical handling and saving time with a simple, innovative solution— no more heavy lifting, spills, or accidents. In this episode, Darren Stenning, Ecolab's Business Development Manager for Australia & NZ - Animal Health shares the inside story behind Ecolab’s new innovation - Next Gen Solids - from bulky 200-litre drums to compact, recyclable capsule...

Most farmers and growers overlook the power of precise, long-term weather insights—until now. CountryWide CONNECT's weekly weather update by Tony Trewinnard from Blue Skies Weather, New Zealand’s trusted independent weather forecaster, reveals how a nuanced understanding of six-week and seasonal forecasts can transform your farm management, crop planning, and even your soil health. The...

Dairy markets are defying expectations despite global conflicts, geopolitical tensions, and logistical chaos. Stu Davison, Kiwi dairy analyst for High Ground Dairy now based in Chicago talks about what’s really driving milk prices higher in 2026 when they were predicting the opposite. He unpacks the counterintuitive forces fueling the surge in dairy prices. From China’s strategic buyin...

Rural contractors in New Zealand are facing an unprecedented blow: soaring diesel costs - that ultimately are being past onto farmers. Daryl Thompson, Vice President of the NZ Rural Contractors, reveals how they use 'fuel adjustment factors'. Daryl explains how contractors are trying tangible tactics like rerouting, scheduling smarter runs, and internal process tweaks that make a genuine differenc...

Most farmers kill their best opportunities by playing it safe — but Cam Clayton's bold strategy and willingness to lean into his weaknesses took him to the top of the FMG NZ Young Farmers Waikato / BOP regional competition, winning the regional title in a nail-biting finish. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most farmers think buying a farm requires millions — but Tangaroa Walker defies convention with a bold, innovative approach: crowd sourcing his equity partners to buy his first dairy farm in Southland. He turned to his social media initally to crowd-fund finding his perfect two partners to raise enough capital to purchase a 300-cow operation in the Waikaka Valley. Tangaroa also reveals how h...

The global shocks from rising fuel prices are hitting New Zealand farmers. BNZ Senior Economist, Doug Steele, pulls back the curtain on the immediate risks and strategic buffers farmers can leverage to stay resilient in this volatile environment. He discusses currency vs commodity prices offseting some costs, the Reserve Bank’s next move and the potential longer-term impact of inflation and...