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Getting through a tough spring

"My thoughts are with Southern farmers who are having to navigate extreme wet conditions. If you need support, B+LNZ has pulled together this page which contains resources you may find useful."

Kate Acland, Chair of B+LNZ

Access resources here

Featured

E-diary notices: 4 October 2024

Spotted something in our weekly e-diary newsletters and need to refer to it again?

Beef + Lamb New Zealand passes Taste Pure Nature baton to exporters

Taste Pure Nature, New Zealand’s country of origin beef and lamb marketing programme, has officially moved to a new phase with Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) handing the reins to red meat processors and exporters.

B+LNZ Generation Next Alumni launched

B+LNZ is excited to launch the B+LNZ Generation Next Alumni – a unique opportunity for continued learning, networking, and connecting with fellow B+LNZ Generation Next graduates from across New Zealand.

Docking drench typically unnecessary

In a normal year, lambs do not require a drench at docking/tailing and a routine drench at this time may be costing farmers in both time and money.

Conference builds global relationships

This week, Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s (B+LNZ) Senior Trade Policy Advisor Nicholas Jolly, attended the Global Conference on Sustainable Beef (GRSB) in Punta del Este, Uruguay. As a board member of GRSB, B+LNZ plays a key role in ensuring New Zealand's beef sustainability practices are recognised globally.

New Zealand’s beef sector and scientists join forces to create environmentally efficient beef

Producing the world’s most efficient beef cattle with a light environmental footprint is the goal of an innovative new project.

Beef + Lamb New Zealand announces appointment of new chief executive

Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) has announced the appointment of Alan Thomson as its new chief executive, starting Monday 4 November 2024.

E-diary notices: 27 September 2024

Tickets selling fast for B+LNZ Awards, We want your sheep poo, Levy rates on sheepmeat and beef remain unchanged, Apply for Rural Leadership Advancement Scholarship, Announcement of proposed changes to the Biosecurity Act

New Zealand’s red meat sector welcomes the new trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates

The Government announced today that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will eliminate all tariffs on frozen beef and sheepmeat from New Zealand upon on entry into force of the agreement. Chilled products are already tariff-free.

AgYields: a valuable tool for farmers

B+LNZ is encouraging farmers to work with their consultants about how best to take advantage of AgYields, a national forage database designed to make pasture planning and crop selection easier.

Lamb survival workshop aims to increase the odds

Improving lamb survival rates is a key focus for New Zealand farmers, especially this time of year. To address this, Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) recently held a workshop led by Dr Mhairi Sutherland, Senior Scientist for Animal Health and Welfare Research.

NZ Olympic Team partnership strengthens national pride

Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) has been a proud partner of the New Zealand Olympic Team to highlight the connection between our world-leading product and its nutritional benefits.

B+LNZ submission on vocational reform

Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) has submitted feedback on the Ministry of Education’s (MoE) and the Tertiary Education Commission’s (TEC) redesign of the Vocational Education and Training (VET) system.

Update on RMA reform

The Government has provided more information on how it will reform the Resource Management Act (RMA).

Do yearling heifers need a pre-mating drench?

Dr Ginny Dodunski, Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Wormwise Programme Manager offers timely advice about whether or not heifers going to the bull need a pre-mating drench.

E-diary notices: 20 September 2024

Spotted something in our weekly e-diary newsletters and need to refer to it again?

Methane vaccine becoming a viable option with new company formation

A methane-reducing vaccine, developed by Kiwi scientists is getting closer to becoming a reality with the AgriZeroNZ and New Zealand Agricultural Greenhouse Gas Research Centre (NZAGRC) announcement this week of the establishment of Lucidome Bio, which will spearhead methane vaccine research in New Zealand going forward.

Tickets selling fast for B+LNZ Awards

Tickets for the Beef + Lamb New Zealand Awards in Hamilton on 10 October are selling fast and anyone wanting to join the celebrations is encouraged to secure their tickets as soon as possible.

B+LNZ reminds sheep farmers of tail length requirements

As docking or tailing gets underway, Beef + Lamb New Zealand is reminding farmers about the tail length regulations that came into effect in 2021.

Successful first combined F4P Field Day in St Arnaud

Over 80 farmers and rural professionals from across Tasman and Marlborough gathered at Lenticular Lake Station in St Arnaud for the first combined B+LNZ Farming for Profit Field Day.

Celebrating 2024 Te Reo Māori Week with B+LNZ

Te Reo Māori Week (14 to 21 September 2024) is a timely opportunity for Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) to provide an update on its Māori Agribusiness work and encourage Māori sheep and beef farmers to apply for the 2025 Ahuwhenua Māori Trophy competition.

B+LNZ's regional policy work

Here’s an update on our work around NZ as part of regional planning processes relating to freshwater plans.

Call for more farmers to join B+LNZ study to help tackle facial eczema

Farmers are being encouraged to join the Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) Sheep Poo study, a crucial part of the Eliminating Facial Eczema Impacts programme, ahead of the new season next month.

E-diary notices: 13 September 2024

We want your sheep poo, Register your interest in a B+LNZ climate policy position workshop, TB slaughter levy changes, Shepherdess Magazine Spring edition out now, Expressions of interest – livestock parasite management group for Northland cattle production

image of Director roadshow banner with landscape and stream shot

Director roadshow wraps up

More than 400 farmers attended one of 30 Director roadshow meetings nationwide between 29 July and 5 September.

image of Sandra Matthews presenting at annual meeting

Strong turnout for B+LNZ’s ENI Farmer Council Annual Meeting

The recent B+LNZ Eastern North Island (ENI) Farmer Council Annual Meeting, held in Masterton, had an outstanding turnout of 65 farmers reflecting the growing interest from local farmers to engage with, and be a part of, B+LNZ’s Farmer Council.

Farmlands on celebrating the sector through B+LNZ Awards

In a recent B+LNZ Scene + Herd podcast, Farmlands CEO Tanya Houghton shares Farmlands’ commitment to the B+LNZ Awards and how Farmlands is innovating and supporting farmers.

Modules support farmers in Integrated Farm Plan Process

Beef + Lamb New Zealand has launched nine online learning modules to help farmers take ownership of their Farm Plan and create a plan that aligns with their individual farming goals.

Parasites in the Pacific Conference

At the recent Parasites in the Pacific Conference, B+LNZ’s Principal Scientist, Dr Cara Brosnahan, presented on the importance of farmer engagement in agricultural research and shared promising results from the Smartworm app.

E-diary notices: 6 September 2024

Spotted something in our weekly e-diary newsletters and need to refer to it again?

B+LNZ launches Rural Leadership Advancement Scholarship for 2025

Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is excited to announce the launch of the Rural Leadership Advancement Scholarship, aimed at supporting the next generation of leaders in the sheep and beef sector.

B+LNZ’s New Season Outlook reflects current challenges along with potential causes for optimism

We’ve released the New Season Outlook report for 2024-25, highlighting that while the red meat sector continues to face difficult times, there are signs of ‘green shoots’ on the horizon.

Dairy farmers encouraged to use superior beef genetics this spring

Beef + Lamb New Zealand is encouraging dairy farmers to consider using superior beef genetics at mating this spring to add value to their non-replacement calf crop.

Finalists announced in 2024 Beef + Lamb New Zealand Awards

After a thorough judging process, Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is pleased to announce the finalists in the 2024 Beef + Lamb New Zealand Awards.

E-diary notices: 30 August 2024

Government announcement on Significant Natural Areas, B+LNZ’s submission on NZ’s second emissions reduction plan, Vocational education and training consultation underway

Sam Stevens on telling rural stories with B+LNZ’s Farmer Council

Central Otago farmer, Sam Stevens, has a deep-rooted passion for rural storytelling that he brings to his role as a B+LNZ Central South Island Farmer Councillor.

Pasture strip tests help identify molybdenum deficiencies

A simple on-farm pasture test is an effective way to identify a molybdenum deficiency in pastures.

Understanding parasite pressure in ewes over lambing

It’s commonly accepted that ewes lose some immunity to internal parasites over lambing.

Ovine age verification for EU and UK Markets

As we approach the end of the year, Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is reminding farmers about the ovine age verification requirements that were updated in 2022.

E-diary notices: 23 August 2024

Spotted something in our weekly e-diary newsletters and need to refer to it again?

Science and policy solutions for freshwater health – B+LNZ webinar recap

Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) recently hosted a webinar on the implications of an independent review of the suspended fine sediment and E.coli national bottom lines and the impacts on sheep and beef farmers. The webinar drew around 120 participants, including officials, scientists, regional councils and farmers.

Gene technology rules update for farmers

The Government recently announced it will introduce legislation by the end of this year to change New Zealand’s regulations around gene technology, setting up a dedicated regulator to oversee applications to use gene technology, similar to the Australian approach.

image of generation next North Island graduates

Congratulations to North Island Generation Next Graduates 2024

Congratulations to the 2024 graduates of Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s (B+LNZ) Generation Next Programme from the North Island cohort. South Island participants will be graduating later this year.

image of herd of sheep in snowy mountains

Sheep and cattle numbers down as carbon forestry, drought and low prices continue to impact sector

Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) has released its annual Stock Number Survey, showing a notable decline in both sheep and cattle numbers as of 30 June 2024.

Preventing losses to metabolic diseases at lambing

After a dry autumn, farmers in many parts of the country will be tight for feed going into spring and this could put ewes at greater risk of developing metabolic diseases.

E-diary notices: 16 August 2024

Government announcement on gene technology rules, Tickets on sale for 2024 B+LNZ Awards, Farm vehicle safety support available, Call for farmers to join FE focus group

Director roadshow meetings feedback so far

The B+LNZ 2024 Director roadshow started in the Northern South Island at the end of July and the bulk of the sessions will be kicking off in other regions from next week. Feedback from sessions held so far shows farmers felt informed and heard.

B+LNZ Ambassador Chef showcases NZ lamb

Beef + Lamb New Zealand Ambassador Chefs take immense pride in their roles, showcasing the exceptional quality of New Zealand's beef and lamb.

Fraser Tasker on adding value with B+LNZ’s Farmer Council

Fraser Tasker, alongside his wife Lisa, runs a diverse farming operation in Ruapuna, Mid Canterbury.

B+LNZ at LambEx 2024

Representatives from Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) recently joined over 1,500 global attendees at the LambEx Conference in Adelaide, Australia. This conference, held from 7-9 August, brought together the world’s leading sheep, lamb, and wool industry experts to share the latest innovations, research, and industry trends.

Lucerne grazing system boosting profitability

Research from the completed B+LNZ Hill Country Futures programme continues to benefit farmers. A 16-year study on Bog Roy Station shows the adoption of lucerne grazing systems has significantly boosted animal performance and farm income.

Find events in your region

Events in your region

All events

Beef + Lamb New Zealand Awards 2024

National Thu 10 Oct

B+LNZ Northern South Island Farmer Council Annual Meeting

Canterbury Tue 15 Oct

B+LNZ Southern South Island Farmer Council Annual Meeting and Farm Tour: Lorne Peak Station

Southland Thu 31 Oct

All events

Tickets on sale for 2024 B+LNZ Awards

Tickets are now on sale for the 2024 Beef + Lamb New Zealand Awards, scheduled to take place at the Claudelands Event Centre in Hamilton on 10 October.

Purchase tickets

Welcome to Beef + Lamb New Zealand

Getting through a tough spring

Featured

E-diary notices: 4 October 2024

Beef + Lamb New Zealand passes Taste Pure Nature baton to exporters

B+LNZ Generation Next Alumni launched

Docking drench typically unnecessary

Conference builds global relationships

New Zealand’s beef sector and scientists join forces to create environmentally efficient beef

Beef + Lamb New Zealand announces appointment of new chief executive

E-diary notices: 27 September 2024

New Zealand’s red meat sector welcomes the new trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates

AgYields: a valuable tool for farmers

Lamb survival workshop aims to increase the odds

NZ Olympic Team partnership strengthens national pride

B+LNZ submission on vocational reform

Update on RMA reform

Do yearling heifers need a pre-mating drench?

E-diary notices: 20 September 2024

Methane vaccine becoming a viable option with new company formation

Tickets selling fast for B+LNZ Awards

B+LNZ reminds sheep farmers of tail length requirements

Successful first combined F4P Field Day in St Arnaud

Celebrating 2024 Te Reo Māori Week with B+LNZ

B+LNZ's regional policy work

Call for more farmers to join B+LNZ study to help tackle facial eczema

E-diary notices: 13 September 2024

Director roadshow wraps up

Strong turnout for B+LNZ’s ENI Farmer Council Annual Meeting

Farmlands on celebrating the sector through B+LNZ Awards

Modules support farmers in Integrated Farm Plan Process

Parasites in the Pacific Conference

E-diary notices: 6 September 2024

B+LNZ launches Rural Leadership Advancement Scholarship for 2025

B+LNZ’s New Season Outlook reflects current challenges along with potential causes for optimism

Dairy farmers encouraged to use superior beef genetics this spring

Finalists announced in 2024 Beef + Lamb New Zealand Awards

E-diary notices: 30 August 2024

Sam Stevens on telling rural stories with B+LNZ’s Farmer Council

Pasture strip tests help identify molybdenum deficiencies

Understanding parasite pressure in ewes over lambing

Ovine age verification for EU and UK Markets

E-diary notices: 23 August 2024

Science and policy solutions for freshwater health – B+LNZ webinar recap

Gene technology rules update for farmers

Congratulations to North Island Generation Next Graduates 2024

Sheep and cattle numbers down as carbon forestry, drought and low prices continue to impact sector

Preventing losses to metabolic diseases at lambing

E-diary notices: 16 August 2024

Director roadshow meetings feedback so far

B+LNZ Ambassador Chef showcases NZ lamb

Fraser Tasker on adding value with B+LNZ’s Farmer Council

B+LNZ at LambEx 2024

Lucerne grazing system boosting profitability

Find events in your region

Events in your region

Beef + Lamb New Zealand Awards 2024

B+LNZ Northern South Island Farmer Council Annual Meeting

B+LNZ Southern South Island Farmer Council Annual Meeting and Farm Tour: Lorne Peak Station

Tickets on sale for 2024 B+LNZ Awards