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Photography: Rebecca Williams
This page contains this week’s e-diary national notices.
If there’s something you want to know specific to your region, contact your local extension manager – find their details here.
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This week’s notices:
Madagascar ragwort in the Wairarapa
Madagascar ragwort has recently been confirmed in southern Wairarapa – the first confirmed finding outside Northland, where it is already a significant pastoral weed. The plant is highly toxic to livestock and can have major impacts on pasture productivity. Visit the Greater Wellington Regional Council website for more information and how to report sightings of Madagascar ragwort – it’s important the regional council has accurate information about the spread of this weed.
NAIT levy consultation outcome confirmed
Following consultation on proposed changes to the levies that help fund the National Animal Identification and Tracing (NAIT) Scheme, OSPRI has confirmed that NAIT tag and slaughter rates for cattle will increase. From 1 September 2026, the new NAIT cattle levy rates will be $1.35 for cattle tags and $1.91 for slaughter. The unsafe to tag levy remains unchanged at $13. More information is available on the OSPRI website.
Nominate bulls for the Beef Progeny Test
B+LNZ is calling for bull nominations for the 2026 mating of the across-breed Beef Progeny Test. Breeders who have bulls in the programme receive a wealth of information on the performance of their progeny. This includes growth, structural assessment, carcase (steers) and maternal performance of the bull’s daughters. Open to Angus and Hereford breeds. Nominations close 30 August. Find out more here.
Finishers wanted for Beef-on-Dairy Progeny Test calves
B+LNZ is seeking finishers for 300 Beef-on-Dairy Progeny Test calves (approximately 150 steers and 150 heifers) available from a Taranaki-based rearer between October and December. Ideally, all calves of one sex will go to a single finisher, but interest is welcomed from finishers able to take a minimum of 60 calves of one sex. Participating finishers will gain access to progeny from a range of high-performing beef sires and support research that improves NZ’s beef-on-dairy sector. More information here.
Expressions of Interest: Farming for Profit facilitators – South Otago and Southland
B+LNZ is seeking enthusiastic and experienced Facilitators to coordinate and deliver the South Otago Farming for Profit Programme and the Southland Farming for Profit Programme. Farming for Profit is B+LNZ's flagship farmer-led extension programme, bringing local farmers together to learn, share ideas, and explore practical solutions to improve farm performance and profitability. Working alongside a local steering group and the B+LNZ Extension team, the facilitator will play a key role in delivering engaging, practical events that inspire learning, encourage discussion, and support on-farm change. Find out more and apply.