The Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) Mid Northern North Island (MNNI) Farmer Council AGM, held in Te Awamutu, brought together farmers, Farmer Councillors and B+LNZ staff to reflect on a year of regional delivery, farmer-led priorities and the opportunities ahead for the region.
With updates from B+LNZ's science and research, policy and insights teams, the event provided farmers with the latest information on the issues shaping sheep and beef farming across the region.
The day also featured guest speaker Storm Baynes-Ryan from That Farming Physio, whose practical and interactive presentation encouraged farmers to prioritise their own wellbeing alongside the demands of running a farm business.
Ian Evans, MNNI Farmer Council Chair, said it had been encouraging to see improved conditions across the sector, with stronger prices and favourable weather providing a welcome lift after several difficult years. However, he reminded farmers to stay focused on profitability and continue making decisions based on their own farm data.
"While market demand remains encouraging, the key message is to focus on the margin. Costs have also increased, so strong sale prices don't necessarily mean strong profits."
He also acknowledged the ongoing challenges facing sheep and beef farmers, including regulation, land-use change, climate pressures, animal welfare, biosecurity and rising business costs.
"That's why the connection between farmers, the Farmer Council and B+LNZ remains important. It's farmers representing farmers."
Farmer-led extension continues to deliver across the region
The AGM highlighted a year of transition and achievement for the MNNI Extension Team. The team delivered 57 farmer events and engaged with around 1,500 farmers across the region.
A standout success was the region's first ‘Powering Up Beef Systems Field Day’, which attracted strong attendance and reinforced the demand for practical, farmer-led learning opportunities. The Porina Field Day demonstrated the value of local collaboration and timely extension support, while dinner events covering succession planning, equity partnerships and global outlooks proved popular, with several reaching capacity.
The AGM also highlighted the important role Farmer Councillors play in representing local farmer priorities and helping shape B+LNZ's work in the region. Through local knowledge and farmer feedback, councillors help guide regional extension activity and ensure it remains relevant to the needs of sheep and beef farmers.
Looking ahead
The extension team plans to increase its use of farmer focus groups and continue supporting a broad range of farmers, from emerging farmers through to experienced operators. A major regional showcase event is also planned to bring together farmers and speakers from across the wider region.
Changes around the Farmer Council table
The AGM marked the end of long periods of service from two Farmer Councillors.
Neil Aiken was acknowledged for 12 years of service on the Farmer Council, while Jon Sherlock was thanked for his nine years of commitment. Both were recognised for their leadership, knowledge and contributions to the region and wider sheep and beef sector.
The council also welcomed Grace Jones as a newly elected Farmer Councillor. A drystock farmer and advocate for the red meat and wool sector, Grace is passionate about supporting thriving rural communities and ensuring farmer voices are heard. She joins re-elected councillors Tony Hodge and Natasha Cave on the MNNI Farmer Council.
Upcoming MNNI events
Farmers are encouraged to get involved in upcoming B+LNZ events across the region:
- 12 November: Lucerne Field Day
- 18 November: Growing Great Lambs
- 26 November: Whole farm system thinking for the virtual fencing shift
For more events, keep a lookout on B+LNZ’s website.
Join B+LNZ's Farmer Council
B+LNZ's Farmer Council provides a pathway for farmers to help shape regional extension priorities, support local events and activities, and represent the views of sheep and beef farmers within their region. Farmers interested in learning more about Farmer Council opportunities can contact their local B+LNZ Regional Extension Manager.
