Government

The production of commercial infant and toddler foods could be in for a shake-up after shortfalls between products and rules were brought to government attention.

Australia’s major supermarket groups are to come under scrutiny in a senate probe of their pricing and profits.

Halting work on industry transformation plans is a top three priority for the new government, with the proposal second on the coalition’s 100-day plan.

Despite tens of millions of dollars committed, food industry transformation plans look set to become victims of coalition negotiations, with ACT planning to stop all work on ITPs.

The French bakery extends its grocery range to pastry, filling the gap left by the exit of Goodman Fielder’s Edmonds brand from the freezer.

The inclusion of hospitality alongside tourism in a government portfolio is deserved recognition of a $14bn sector, say industry groups.

List MP Andrew Bayly becomes a key player in the effort to address competition concerns in NZ’s grocery sector.

Horticulture New Zealand is urging Prime Minister-elect Chris Luxon to appoint a minister of Horticulture to cabinet.

A post-election sentiment survey of Restaurant Association of New Zealand members has shown optimism at the change of government to a National-led coalition.

The only certainty following Saturday’s election is the ‘uncertain’ nature of the next government’s exact make-up and who will pick up the important food-related portfolios.

Six new marine reserves between Oamaru and The Catlins have been announced by government.

With the countdown on to the general election on October 14, New Zealand Food & Grocery Council chief executive Raewyn Bleakley lays out first actions depending on the outcome.

The government has extended of the number of workers allowed into New Zealand under the Recognised Seasonal Employer Scheme.

A sugary beverages tax, product reformulation, and strengthened cross-agency collaboration are among the recommendations made by health officials to cut unhealthy food consumption in NZ.

The government has pledged $10m for nine projects contributing to the recovery and resilience of regions affected by Cyclone Gabrielle.

The government agency is consulting over changes to its exporter strategy, including the export customer team led by Craig Hudson, ahead of funding contracting in 2024.

A total of 68 projects – including many related to the food system – have been selected for investment via the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s (MBIE) Endeavour Fund.

Eighteen roading projects across the West Coast will receive more than $22m in government investment from the $419m Transport Resilience Fund.

The outlook for growth from New Zealand’s biggest export market looks “highly uncertain”, according to the government’s Pre-election Economic and Fiscal Update 2023.

The Ministry for Primary Industries is looking for feedback on proposed changes to the import health standards for fresh citrus.

A joint venture of major New Zealand agribusiness companies and the government, is the lead investor in a US start-up developing probiotics and natural enzymes that reduces methane from cows.

Iwi group NIOW secures an additional $600k from the govt to help fund its large sustainable aquaculture project.

New Zealand has become the first country from the Oceania region to formally accept the World Trade Organisation Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies.

The government has confirmed details of the tax changes to the bright-line test for cyclone-damaged properties, with the release of the required legislative amendments.

If re-elected, the party says it will use the money to help transform NZ into a global leader in sustainable agri.

Agriculture and the production and export of beef and lamb should be at the heart of a new economic strategy for New Zealand, according to a manifesto from New Zealand’s red meat sector.

New Zealand will start exploratory discussions on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the United Arab Emirates, Trade and Export Growth Minister Damien O’Connor announced today.

The National Party has announced its cyclone and flood recovery plans, which would see it cut regulations and set up a specific ombudsman.

NZFGC boss Raewyn Bleakley says the long-awaited code will help create “a better and fairer grocery sector”.

A petition for a values-based National Food Strategy has been presented to the government and accepted by MP for Taieri, Indrid Leary.

The state-owned farming company is preparing “to head into a challenging cycle”, scrapping its full-year dividend and downgrading its net operating profit forecast.

A bill to protect the Hauraki Gulf has passed its first reading in parliament.

Progressing primary sector partnerships will form part of taking the India-NZ relationship to the next level, according to Trade and Export Growth and Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor.

Public Service Commissioner Peter Hughes has appointed Jenn Bestwick to lead a review of Immigration New Zealand’s administration of the Accredited Employer Work Visa scheme.

The government has released four options that would ban bottom fishing from the vast bulk of the Hauraki Gulf as part of its ongoing plan to protect the 1.2-million-hectare marine park.

The government has taken millions of dollars of funding away from food system-related initiatives as part of its $4bn savings drive.

The findings of an inquiry following a complaint from the manufacturer fail to go its way.

Breeding pasture designed to thrive in a changing climate is the focus of a new accelerator programme backed by the government.

Tomorrow is the last day to sign a petition calling for the government to develop a national food strategy.

A Wairoa man who poached crayfish that had a commercial value of nearly $300,000 has been jailed for two years and two and a half months.

NZ’s first national freight and supply chain strategy sets out the direction of travel across a 30-year timeframe towards a low emissions, high resilience future.

The government has today announced its final plan to reduce agricultural emissions and future-proof NZ’s largest export sector, according to Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor.

The government is looking to pump an additional $5bn into New Zealand’s transport industry, bringing funding to $20.8bn between 2024-2027, with the proceeds coming from increased fuel taxes and road user charges.

Collaboration and innovation are the way forward for the country’s seafood sector, says Oceans and Fisheries Minister Rachel Brooking in her opening address to the Seafood New Zealand conference.

There are concerns that Labour’s proposed GST removal on fruit and veges could divert resources from the newly-established grocery watchdog’s main mission.

Fisheries New Zealand has been requested to make an aquaculture decision on a proposed marine farm within the Coromandel Marine Farm Zone (CMFZ) located in the inner Hauraki Gulf.

The government is moving ahead with plans to implement a pay gap reporting system for large organisations.

The government has removed of the remaining Covid-19 health requirements, including the seven-day mandatory isolation for positive cases.

Food firms like Talley’s secure the lion’s share of the $33m fifth round of the Government Investment in Decarbonising Industry initiative.

The Brewers Association of New Zealand, Brewers Guild of New Zealand and Hospitality New Zealand have jointly called on the government to freeze excise on beer in 2023 and introduce a new lower rate on keg beer.

It includes five new seafloor protection areas to preserve habitats with bans on bottom-contact fishing methods.

Seafood NZ wants “true consultation” on proposed Hauraki Gun trawl corridors.

Feedback is being sought on proposals regarding industrially produced trans fats in processed foods.

Seafood New Zealand has welcomed the “strengthened” Fisheries Industry Transformation Plan, while Greenpeace has slammed the plan calling it “anything but transformational”.

The government’s final Fisheries Industry Transformation Plan has landed, containing a number of changes from the draft version released in April.

Land-based primary producers severely impacted by the North Island weather events (NIWE) in early 2023 can now apply for support.

New Zealand has no farms infected with the cattle disease Mycoplasma bovis, says the government as its eradication effort moves into the next phase.

The government has welcomed a report from the Startup Advisors Council on steps to support a thriving startup sector in New Zealand.

The National Party’s finance spokesperson, Nicola Willis, has claimed that Prime Minister Chris Hipkins plans to “recycle a failed old Labour policy” of removing GST from fresh fruit and vegetables ahead of the October election.

The National Party says it will establish a minister for hunting and fishing to bring forth a raft of changes, including a new Department of Conservation hut partnership.

Mangoes and dead tarantulas are among recent items intercepted by Biosecurity New Zealand, as seizures jump from 2693 in June last year, to 9061 this year.

All systems are go to establish a fully operational Horticulture Technology Catalyst by 2024.

Kiri Allan has resigned from all her ministerial positions after being charged with reckless driving and resisting arrest.

ExportNZ is hosting an All of Government Roadshow around New Zealand running from July 25 through to August 4.

The Business Payment Practices Bill, which will reduce the stress and costs to small businesses of long payment wait times, has passed its third reading. 

Hansang Trading is recalling specific batches of two of its Lotte brand cookies due to the presence of undeclared allergens.

Fisheries New Zealand is consulting on further amendments to recreational and commercial fishing rules for the Fiordland Marine Area.

Pierre van Heerden sets out his priorities and the timetable for his first report on the state of grocery competition in NZ.

Work on a break-up of the supermarket duopoly is being “held in reserve” in order to let the effects of the current round of reforms percolate through the $22bn sector.

The Ministry for the Environment and the New Zealand Food and Grocery Council are hosting a webinar on the Waste Action and Investment Plan.

Calls for the govt to develop a national food strategy grow, with the directors of the National Science Challenge the latest to add their voice.

The Australia New Zealand Leadership Forum (ANZLF) says that after 40 years of the Australia-New Zealand Closer Economic Relations Trade Agreement (CER), progress is required in some key areas.

The former Sanitarium executive and ex-NZFGC chair will start in the role on Thursday.

Minister for Emergency Management Kieran McAnulty has made further appointments to the government inquiry into the response to the 2023 North Island severe weather events.

The agreement – about 14 years in the making – will remove more than 91% of tariffs from its entry into force slated for 2024.

Next weekend, Auckland will play host to international trade ministers as New Zealand hosts the 7th Commission Meeting of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.

Raw drinking milk producer Dreamview Creamery Real is recalling specific batches of raw milk as the product may contain listeria.

The government is investing $4.6m from the Climate Emergency Response Fund into four projects tackling food waste.

The government is contributing a further $500,000 to the Post Your Support initiative, a community fundraising campaign supporting farmers and growers to fix cyclone-damaged fences and growing structures.

New Zealand Food Safety has issued a public health warning against collecting shellfish from the Pelorus Sound area in the Marlborough Sounds.

Fisheries New Zealand is calling for feedback on the proposed temporary fisheries closure of Great Barrier Island (Aotea Island) and nearby islands.

Prime Minister Chris Hipkins will travel to Brussels to witness New Zealand signing the NZ-EU Free Trade Agreement before heading to Stockholm and the NATO Leaders’ Summit in Lithuania.

The SFFF fund backs microalgae exploration led by NewFish and the Cawthron Institute, while a whānua-initiated kānuka smoke project also gets cash.

The NZ Food Safety Science & Research Centre delivers value of $164m to New Zealand annually, according to the findings of a new study it commissioned.

The government has made virtually no progress on implementing healthy food policies in the last three years and without reform New Zealand will fail to meet its international obligations to the Paris Agreement and towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals, according to a new report.

Multiple importers are recalling specific batches of Durra brand Tahina and Halawa products due to the possible presence of Salmonella.

From Saturday 1 July 2023, the sale and manufacture of many single-use plastic products are being banned, restricted or phased out.

The government is seeking feedback on changes to regulations for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) that will foster research and improve health outcomes.

Foodstuffs is preparing for the removal of single-use plastic bags from all supermarkets and grocery stores from 1 July, as part of a government phase-out of certain single-use plastics.

Fisheries New Zealand is consulting on proposed changes to sustainability measures for orange roughy (ORH 3B), including catch limits and allowances.

The government is making $6m available for community food providers across New Zealand, although full details are yet to be revealed.

The Poultry Industry Association of New Zealand has signed the Government Industry Agreement deed for Biosecurity Readiness and Response (GIA).

“The start date of the grocery commissioner is expected very soon,” says Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Duncan Webb.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Nanaia Mahuta has welcomed the adoption of a new global treaty to protect and restore high seas biodiversity.

New Zealand Trade & Enterprise says the business delegation travelling with Prime Minister Chris Hipkins to China will have the dual aims of boosting the economy as well as New Zealand’s relationship with the Asian giant.

The government must step up efforts to support the rural sector so that all Kiwis can access safe, healthy and affordable food, says Animal & Plant Health New Zealand.

The Centre for Climate Action Joint Venture has rebranded as AgriZeroNZ and announced an investment in a methane measurement facility, taking its confirmed deployments to over $8m since launching in February this year.

The New Zealand economy entered a technical recession in the three months to March 2023, marked by a second consecutive quarter of negative growth with a 0.1% drop in GDP.

The government is co-investing $17.7m into the construction of a new greenhouse gas testing facility at Massey University.

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Hospitality New Zealand is calling for the government to take a second look at the potential ramifications if the Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Community Participation) Amendment Bill becomes law.

The government has called opposition from iwi fisheries organisations to the Kermadec Ocean Sanctuary proposal “very disappointing”.

The 24-page document covers everything from range reviews and delistings to buy-ins and shrinkage, as well as the scale of the penalties that could be imposed.

Fishers, marine farmers, kaitiaki/tiaki, and researchers from around the country were among the recipients of the MPI-hosted awards.

Minister of State for Trade and Export Growth, Rino Tirikatene, is in Singapore to meet with Singaporean counterparts, promote business investment for wāhine entrepreneurs, and explore investment opportunities for Māori land-based aquaculture.

The founder of Gisborne vegetable growing and processing business LeaderBrand is among the food system pioneers recognised in the 2023 King’s Birthday and Coronation Honours list.

A parliamentary petition calling for the government to develop a national food strategy goes live today. So who is behind the push to design a better food system, why do they think we need it and what would it do?

New Zealand Food Safety has issued a public health warning advising the public not to collect or consume shellfish harvested from the Port Underwood area in Marlborough.

The new Oceans and Fisheries Minister, Rachel Brooking, has encouraged feedback on the draft Fisheries Industry Transformation Plan.

The government and alcohol industry representatives have joined the chorus of international stakeholders questioning Ireland’s plan to introduce comprehensive health labelling of alcohol products.

The government’s Research and Development Tax Incentive has supported more than $2bn of New Zealand business innovation – an increase of around $1bn in less than nine months.

New Zealand businesses will begin reaping the rewards from the free trade agreement with the United Kingdom from today.

A second steep increase in beer tax is forecast to stifle investment, innovation and growth and potentially put some brewers out of business.

“We are leaving no stone unturned to ensure supply chains do not constrain the substantial progress we’ve made on trade, says O’Connor, as substantial negotiations on the Indo-Pacific plan are agreed.

Immigration NZ has made changes to visa conditions for new Partner of Worker Work Visas which may affect hospitality employers, according to the Restaurant Association.

Foxton vertical farming venture 26 Seasons and Nelson’s Snap Information Technologies are both in line for RSPF loans.

The CRI is receiving a capital injection of up to $28m from the govt – its first recapitalisation “in living memory,” according to departing CEO David Hughes.

Trade and Export Growth Minister Damien O’Connor is travelling to Detroit in the United States to represent New Zealand at the annual APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade meeting from 24 – 29 May. 

Hospitality New Zealand says the government’s Wellbeing Budget 2023 does not do enough to support small businesses.

The govt’s ‘bread and butter’ budget delivers snacks for some but bare cupboards for others, say industry groups.

New Zealand Trade and Enterprise received an allocation of $29.8m for Exporter Support Cost Pressure in Budget 2023.

The government funds oversight of the sector, including the all-important Grocery Commissioner role.

The government has moved to “unleash business potential” by increasing its investment in Industry Transformation Plans, including for the horticulture sector.

Eat NZ CEO Angela Clifford is part of group preparing to launch the petition, which calls on the government to address a “gaping hole” in policy.

Measures that will improve labour costs and availability are among the top priorities for the industry.

The Hawke’s Bay and Tairawhiti horticulture industries urgently need more government direction and support, says Horticulture New Zealand.

A $1bn cyclone funding recovery package will help rebuild crucial road and rail links wiped out by summer’s extreme weather as well as install some future flood protection measures.

“Divestment is an option on the table as we continue to monitor the effectiveness of the reforms,” Duncan Webb says in response to Westpac’s report.

The company behind the Chelsea Sugar brand, New Zealand Sugar, has completed its emissions-reducing Mechanical Vapour Recompression Evaporator Project.

With food price inflation hitting a 26-year high of 12.5% in April, the Government must prioritise tax relief in next week’s Budget, National finance spokesperson Nicola Willis says.

New Zealand Apples and Pears is welcoming support to clean up orchards, but is calling on the government to urgently talk to growers as they recover and rebuild following Cyclone Gabrielle.

Growers are desperate for government clarity around Cyclone Gabrielle rebuild plans, as a new report says close to a $1bn is needed “for a real shot at recovery”.

A new brand of farmed Pacific oyster, a seaweed startup, and a food handling solutions specialist are among the Kiwi ventures selected for a fledgling aquaculture accelerator with global reach.

The fast-tracking of the UK FTA is giving exporters hope of new avenues for growth as costs pile up at home, but there is realism around competition and market forces.

From 31 May, tariffs on more than 97% of exports to the United Kingdom, including wine, honey, and onions, will be eliminated.

Farmers and growers can share a $70m allocation to help clean up land and “return to profit”.

Fisheries New Zealand is meeting with industry representatives and local set net fishers to discuss further actions after a single Hector’s dolphin was reported caught in a fishing net off the Otago peninsula.

Industry needs to ramp up the use of renewable energy technology to meet the net-zero goal by 2050.

PM Chris Hipkins says he is “optimistic” about getting an entry into force date for the UK-NZ FTA.

The industry shares the government’s vision of improving the environmental performance of commercial fisheries, writes Seafood NZ’s Dr Jeremy Helson.

The New Zealand Food & Grocery Council has partnered with Australian consultancy, NextGen Group, to provide support for its members ahead of the launch of the new Grocery Supply Code.

Treasury has estimated the cost of the North Island’s recent extreme weather for the primary industries is between $400m and $600m over the first half of 2023.

The plan proposes 20 actions and initiatives that aim to strengthen NZ’s seafood sector.

A flotilla of crafts took part in Sunday’s protest, prompting industry to urge for a new “mountains-to-sea approach”.

Fonterra says it will install a heat pump and solar thermal system at two of its sites, as part of its ongoing decarbonisation efforts. 

Food system stakeholders continue to benefit from the government’s efforts to stop the burning of fossil fuels, this time to the tune of $9.8m.

Inflation has come in lower than all market expectations but the government says it is “still focussed on bringing it down further and helping kiwis with the cost of living.”

The government is accused of an “impression of responsiveness” as cyclone-hit businesses struggle to recover.

Demand for $40k government grants has outstripped the initial $50m allocation, leading to the $25m top-up.

Grocery retailers will have 12 months to fall in line with new unit pricing measures coming into force as part of the government’s reform of the $22bn sector, according to draft regulations released today.

But more frequent extreme weather events like Cyclone Gabrielle “could create a series of negative supply shocks”.

Rachel Brooking has picked up the oceans and fisheries portfolio after a reshuffle caused by Stuart Nash’s dismissal.

The Fonterra veteran of 30-years will replace David Hughes to lead the Crown Research Institute.

The government is providing another $23m to support farmers and growers affected by Cyclone Gabrielle.

Businesses could soon have access to thousands of additional working holidaymakers, with the government extending the stay of those already in New Zealand and increasing access from Europe.

A bag of live yabbies is among the “more unusual” seizures made by Biosecurity New Zealand, as passenger numbers bounce-back from Covid-19 in the first quarter of the year.

Prime Minister Chris Hipkins has announced several steps to introduce greater transparency around lobbying at Parliament.

New Zealand’s avocado industry is committed to economic and environmental sustainability, says Associate Minister of Agriculture Meka Whaitiri.

Kerbside recycling changes are set to take place before the Plastic Packaging Product Stewardship Scheme work concludes, raising concerns at the NZFCG.

Adjusting immigration settings and investing in training, a New Zealand food story, and a minister for hospitality are amongst the Restaurant Association’s priorities in its 2023 Election Manifesto.

David Parker has been appointed acting minister for oceans and fisheries after Stuart Nash was dismissed from all his ministerial portfolios.

The government has launched The New Zealand Waste Strategy, based on circular economy principles that support both emissions and solid waste reduction goals.

Up to 30% of the 2023 pipfruit crop from the Hawke’s Bay could be at risk, making a dent on the $900m annual export trade, MFAT said.

Animal rights organisation SAFE will deliver its petition calling for an end to the caging of all hens across New Zealand to Parliament on on Wednesday 29 March.

Fisheries New Zealand is seeking feedback from tangata whenua and stakeholders on proposed changes to the mandatory seabird mitigation measures for commercial fishers using surface longlining.

New Zealand spirits producer Scapegrace has received government support for its $25m Central Otago distillery expansion.

Suppliers should retain control of where their products are sold as part of a reform of the grocery sector – although the same protection should be afford to the duopoly’s private label ranges.

A faster introduction of the proposed grocery supply code has been mooted, with new Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Duncan Webb called upon to create the first version rather than the Commerce Commission.

Vertical farming venture Greengrower is producing and supplying leafy greens to the grocery and foodservice channels.

New Zealand could take a leaf out of Australia’s book when it comes to strengthening the country’s overall food innovation system, according to the NZFGC’s draft ITP submission.

Zero Waste Network Aotearoa and community organisation Kiwi Bottle Drive have both criticised the government’s decision to push back work on a container return scheme.

The government is providing a further $25m in grants to help more businesses in cyclone-affected regions with the clean-up and to get them back up and running.

The government will host trade ministers from 10 Asia Pacific economies at a meeting of Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) Commission members in Auckland on 15 – 16 July.

The government’s deferral of the CRS will ultimately cost households and communities more – not less – writes Again Again’s Nada Piatek.

The government has deferred any further work on the controversial container return scheme (CRS) as part of its latest policy “re-prioritisation”.

Increasing investment in technology and developing a high-skilled, high-wage workforce, and creating a zero-emissions sector are the top priorities in the government’s Advanced Manufacturing Industry Transformation Plan.

The remaining state of national emergency over the Tairāwhiti and Hawke’s Bay regions ends today.

The government is providing $2m for community food providers in its latest response to Cyclone Gabrielle.

New Zealanders are being urged to back sheep and beef farmers as part of a new campaign designed to raise awareness about “crippling” government policies.

A business-as-usual approach to food production and consumption will breach the target, but more than half of the anticipated warming is avoidable if changes are made to food production practices, diets and food waste levels.

The government is providing an additional $26m to help growers and farmers re-establish their businesses following Cyclone Gabrielle.

The Minister for Emergency Management Kieran McAnulty has extended the state of national emergency declared on 14 February due to Cyclone Gabrielle for a further seven days for the Tairāwhiti and Hawke’s Bay areas.

Waikato Regional Council is backing New Zealand’s first proposed area-based fisheries plan.

The government has confirmed $3.25m in funding to support the immediate mental wellbeing needs of people impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle, according to Health Minister Ayesha Verrall.

The government has ended the states of national emergency declared on 14 February over the Northland, Auckland, and Waikato Civil Defence Emergency Management Group areas and the Tararua District.

The Green Party has said that New Zealand is out of step with global progress following the signing of a historic United Nations Ocean Treaty.

Hawke’s Bay business can now apply for up to $40,000 in government grant support following Cyclone Gabrielle.

The government is deploying Bailey bridges across six sites in the North Island to reconnect isolated communities impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle and the Auckland floods, according to Transport Minister Michael Wood.

The government is investing more than $9m over six years to develop a national agricultural greenhouse gas capability plan, and bring more researchers into the field.

The government has released more details about the Cyclone Gabrielle Recovery Taskforce now that the terms of reference have been agreed by cabinet.

The government’s announcement of $250m for assessing and fixing the roads post-Cyclone Gabrielle is a “great start,” according to the National Road Carriers Transport and Logistic Advisory Group, but the but the final number is going to be significantly higher.

Prime Minister Chris Hipkins has launched an international fundraising appeal and a special Lotto draw to support the recovery efforts across the North Island impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle.

The grants can help businesses impacted due to barriers to customer access, supply chain issues, or the inability to operate as usual due to damage.

Marlborough locals are being asked to support the Napier and Gisborne regions as part of an ‘Adopt a Community’ initiative set up by Local Government New Zealand.

The government has launched a new Recovery Visa to bring in needed specialist workers to support the Cyclone Gabrielle and flooding recovery.

Trade Minister Damien O’Connor has travelled to Tokyo to meet with Japanese counterparts and engage with New Zealand businesses in market as part of New Zealand’s 2023 export growth agenda.

Significant government support is required for retailers to combat the economic scars caused by Cyclone Gabrielle, according to Retail NZ.

Wellington City Council has formalised Te Anamata ā-Kai o Tō Tātou Tāone, Our City’s Food Future, an action plan for a sustainable, equitable, healthy, and resilient food system in Pōneke. 

Growers can apply for grants of up to $40,000, with farmers allowed up to $10,000 to help the clean-up effort.

KiwiHarvest has worked with New Zealand Food Safety to enable the delivery of food that would otherwise have been classified as compromised following the floods in Auckland and Cyclone Gabrielle.

The government has pledged a further interim emergency relief package for regions hit by Cyclone Gabrielle and the January floods.

The government has extended the state of national emergency for a further seven days to support the response to the impact of Cyclone Gabrielle.

The Sustainable Business Network has launched a free online toolbox that it says makes it easy for businesses to assess the sustainability of their organisation and their supply chain.

Minister for Emergency Management Kieran McAnulty has announced an initial contribution of $2m to disaster relief funds to support affected communities on the East Coast of the North Island.

Research, Science and Innovation Minister Dr Ayesha Verrall recently announced two new contestable funds, He tipu ka hua and He aka ka toro, that will inject up to $10m into Māori research capability.

The money will help the rural sector cope with the impacts of Cyclone Gabrielle.

Flood affected business across Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland will soon be able to access back to work grants.

It is only the third time in NZ history that a National State of Emergency has been declared.

Some 88% of retailers disapprove of the government’s decision to increase the rate of the minimum wage from 1 April 2023 by 7.2%, according to a snap poll from Retail New Zealand.

The government is investing more than $2m into research on the potential of regenerative farming practices to boost carbon in vegetable and other ground crop-growing soil.

New Zealand’s top food and fibre sector employers are being called on to enter the 2023 Primary Industries Good Employer Awards.

An unexpected 7.2% minimum wage increase is likely to be passed on to consumers by retailers and manufacturers.

The government is providing a $5m package of emergency support to help businesses significantly affected by the recent flooding in Auckland.

The sector plans to double the farmgate value of production as part of a new government and industry strategy.

New Prime Minister Chris Hipkins’ reshuffle has seen the commerce and consumer affairs portfolio land outside cabinet.

Grocery sector stakeholders are speaking on the Grocery Industry Competition Bill at select committee this week.

The government has activated Enhanced Taskforce Green in response to flooding and damaged caused by Cyclone Hale in the Tairāwhiti region.

Biosecurity NZ is consulting on updated levy and fee price increases for clearing imported goods.

Forest & Bird has expressed “deep disappointment” that bottom trawling, dredging and Danish seining will still be allowed under the Hauraki Gulf Fisheries Plan.

“We will continue to strive to look for everything that we can do in that space,” says Hipkins of supermarket competition and regulation to bring down food prices.

Federated Farmers has asked new Prime Minister Chris Hipkins to “slow down the legislative programme, get it right and concentrate on those things that will help families and businesses prosper”.

Mana Whenua Hapū has requested a temporary closure offshore of Napier Port, Hawkes Bay, to the take of all fisheries resources.

New Zealand Trade & Enterprise has appointed a three-strong independent advisory panel to support New Zealand’s new Active Investor Plus visa scheme.

New Labour Party leader Chris Hipkins is expected to reshuffle cabinet positions this week.

The Mycoplasma bovis Programme, led in partnership with Ministry for Primary Industries, DairyNZ and Beef + Lamb New Zealand, continues to make progress towards the eradication of the disease from New Zealand, according to Biosecurity NZ.

Jacinda Ardern led NZ to a valuable FTA with the UK, made progress on grocery competition, but also drew criticism for the govt’s climate change and Covid responses.

The 2023 General Election will be held on Saturday 14 October 2023.

Ardern said that leading the country for the past five-and-a-half years has been an “enormous privilege”.

Fisheries New Zealand is wanting feedback on a draft Fisheries Plan to help restore and protect the Hauraki Gulf.

The impact of ongoing CO2 shortages on the food industry has led the New Zealand Food and Grocery Council to establish a pan-industry group to liaise on the escalating issue.

Trade and Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor will visit Europe this week to discuss the role of agriculture in climate change and food security, World Trade Organization reform, and New Zealand’s agricultural innovation.

The government has extended its medium-scale classification of Cyclone Hale to the Wairarapa after assessing storm damage across the region. 

Food sector stakeholders expect a challenging year grappling with deeper profit erosion as the long-running CO2 shortage worsens.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is set to start consultation on the implementation of unit pricing, after announcing new rules in late December.

Rural Communities Minister Damien O’Connor has classified last week’s Cyclone Hale that caused significant flood damage across the Tairāwhiti/Gisborne District as a medium-scale adverse event, unlocking government support for farmers and growers.

Food Standards Australia New Zealand is wanting feedback as part of its review of permissions for caffeine in sports and general foods.

The New Zealand Alcohol Beverages Council and the Brewers Association are lining up to have their say when the the Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Community Participation) Amendment Bill goes to a Parliamentary Select Committee next year.

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Employer accreditations are extended and bus drivers get a boost but there’s little for hard-hit hospo.

The government has approved a loan of up to $1.25m to hospitality software company Loaded Reports.

New Zealand agritech startup 26 Seasons has secured government cash to help the scale-up of its domestic vertical farming operation as it looks to close its $5.5m capital raise early next year.

A Te Ao Māori code of principles for NZ’s food sector, mission-led food system science, and a biotech conversation are among the eight actions.

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Changes to partner work visas that were set to come into effect in December 2022 have been deferred to April 2023, Immigration Minister Michael Wood has announced.

GE Free NZ has accused FSANZ of “bowing to the GE industry” in approving new definitions for gene edited foods, and deliberating excluding submissions during the decision-making process.

The government is investigating claims of peach dumping after Heinz Watties alleged its sales, market share and profit were all being damaged by the practice.

The government has launched Rautaki mo te Taurikura – Embracing change for prosperity, which it says is a detailed plan to support the Māori food and fibre sector.

Legislation to modernise the way medicines, medical devices and natural health products are regulated has been introduced in Parliament.

The govt’s draft industry plan says the facilities could cater to areas such as bioactives, aquaculture, alternative proteins and sheep milk, but it’s “crucial” they are industry-led.

The Centre for Climate Action on Agricultural Emissions has been officially launched by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Minister for Agriculture, Damien O’Connor, alongside the primary sector partners at Fieldays.

A US court ban on New Zealand exports of several fish species from two North Island fisheries is only a preliminary decision although it has the potential to “dent” exports, according to Seafood New Zealand.

The association representing the red meat processing and exporting sector has called for changes to the government’s agricultural emissions pricing proposal.

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Minister for Food Safety Meka Whaitiri is attending the Fourth Australia and New Zealand Food Ministers’ Meeting in Melbourne today to discuss food safety, regulations and ensuring the food production systems in both countries remain relevant and fit for purpose.

The Grocery Industry Competition Bill is being introduced under urgency, with the government aiming to pass it by the middle of 2023.

The Ministry for Primary Industries is seeking feedback on proposed Fisheries Amendment Act changes to the on-land disposal of fish.

The government is promising its new resource management system will provide clearer direction for farmers and the agriculture sector.

All manufacturers participating in the opt-in system are required to have updated their labelling to reflect the upgrade to the Health Star system.

The government says its Flexi-Wage initiative has supported 20,589 people into jobs.

An upgraded ASEAN free trade agreement has been signed, streamlining customs procedures and providing commitments to support the flow of essential goods.

The Sustainable Trade Index, launched in Singapore overnight by the Hinrich Foundation and the International Institute for Management Development, ranks New Zealand first of 30 economies that undertake international trade in a manner that supports long-term global sustainable development.

New Zealand’s free trade agreement with the United Kingdom is now a step closer with the passing of two Bills, Minister for Trade and Export Growth Damien O’Connor says.

The Productivity Commission will investigate the New Zealand economy’s vulnerability to ongoing supply chain disruptions and identify ways to improve resilience.

Minister of State for Trade and Export Growth Phil Twyford is traveling to Cambodia for trade negotiations with the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The government has requested the establishment of a panel to hear its dispute against Canada regarding the administration of dairy tariff rate quotas (TRQs) under the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

And why the upcoming grocery industry competition bill is not about suppliers, “it is about consumers, it is about New Zealanders”.

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The Ministry for the Environment has opened applications for round two of the Plastics Innovation Fund – Te Tahua Pūtea mō te Kirihou Auaha.

NZFGC’s new boss on guiding principles, headwinds, and silver bullets ahead of the association’s annual conference in Queenstown this week.

New Zealand’s Parliament passed the second reading of the newly named ‘Organic Products and Production Bill’, on Thursday 27 October 2022.

Health Coalition Aotearoa welcomes the government taking urgent action to allow Councils to pass local alcohol policies responsive to the needs of their local populations.

Fisheries New Zealand wants feedback on proposals to reopen the Kaikōura pāua fishery.

Alcohol retailers face tougher rules under proposed government reforms that Justice Minister Kiri Allan says will remove the ability of alcohol companies and supermarkets to appeal local policies.

A twelve-week capital-raising preparation programme for food and fibre businesses has been launched by Palmerston North innovation development business, The Factory.

The Fisheries Amendment Bill has passed its final reading in Parliament.

The proposed new Centre for Climate Action on Agricultural Emissions unveiled in Budget 2022 is on track to be up and running by the end of the year, according to MPI.

Dame Juliet Gerrard, the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor, has published her second report as part of a wider food waste series.

The Department of Conservation is asking whitebaiters for feedback on their fishing experience as the season draws to a close.

New Zealand Food Safety is after feedback on proposed changes to the Simply Safe & Suitable template food control plan and relevant food notices.

The grass-fed export brand will extend a project to help Kiwi farmers get premium product into the US.

The National Party has used the latest Food Price Index to point the finger at Labour economic policy including its immigrations settings, claiming it is “impossible to get ahead under Labour.”

Climate change is continuing to drive ocean acidification, raise sea levels, and increase sea surface temperatures, according to the third report in the government’s ‘Our marine environment’ series published this week.

The aquaculture company is developing a prototype for what it says is NZ’s first sustainable, land-based salmon farm.

Skilled migrants can once again apply for residence following the latest visa announcement by the government, which also re-opens the parent category.

The government is introducing tougher fishing measures to protect the vulnerable South Island Hector’s dolphins.

Food Standards Australia New Zealand is wanting feedback as part of its review of the kava standard in the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code.

The proposal would see NZ farmers lead the world in reducing emissions and enhance our export brand, says PM Jacinda Ardern.

Federated Farmers has lambasted the government’s proposed agricultural emissions pricing plan, claiming it will “wipe out” parts of the food production sector.

The newly formed Aotearoa New Zealand Seaweed Association and the Australian Seaweed Institute have signed a memorandum of understanding to unlock more collaboration between the organisations.

New Zealand will ultimately pay more for their food when the substantial increase in international workers’ pay kicks in from February, according to Federated Farmers.

The Foreign Minister says an historic visit to Aotearoa New Zealand by the Indian Foreign Minister provides an opportunity to strengthen the relationship in areas like people to people exchanges and climate action.

A new report suggests an alternative that is cheaper and more convenient for consumers and better for businesses and the environment, says the Glass Packaging Forum.

Summer testing for Mycoplasma bovis will be stepped up after New Zealand’s nationwide surveillance programme identified a new strain of the disease.

Minister for Trade and Export Growth, Damien O’Connor is heading to Singapore this week for the sixth Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership commission meeting.

Retail NZ wants the government to abandon the “deeply flawed” Fair Pay Agreements Bill, which has been reported back to the House of Representatives from Select Committee.

Migrant wellbeing needs to be at centre of all discussions on the Recognised Seasonal Employer Scheme, according to the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions which has met with the Immigration Minister Michael Wood  to convey “deep concerns” with the existing scheme.

An Aquaculture New Zealand-led action plan to double the size of the national workforce to support the growth of the sector has been backed by the government to the tune of $210,000.

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Single-use plastic cotton buds, drink stirrers and most plastic meat trays are among the products that have been banned from sale or manufacture from 1 October.

An additional Mycoplasma bovis property has been found inside the Wakanui area of Mid-Canterbury where strict biosecurity measures, including a controlled area notice, were announced last week.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has officially opened New Zealand Wine Centre–Te Pokapū Wāina o Aotearoa in Blenheim.

Exports of livestock by sea will stop on 30 April 2023, following the pass of the Animal Welfare Amendment Bill today.

Stakeholders from the horticulture, wine and business sectors have welcomed the government’s decision to increase the Recognised Seasonal Employer scheme by 3,000 places for the coming season.

The Primary Production Committee is seeking public submissions on a plan to increase fines for biosecurity breaches and give officers more powers to refuse entry.

A Kaipaki Dairies initiative is among the first recipients of the government’s $50m Plastics Innovation Fund.

The government is making a $10m contribution alongside partners in Latin America and the Caribbean to build resilience, enhance food security and address the challenges of climate change for small-scale primary producers.

At this stage, all plastic packaging used for consumer goods sold via retail or wholesale will be included the initiative, as will liquid paperboard and compostable plastic.

Biosecurity New Zealand has welcomed 17 new quarantine officers to help protect Aotearoa’s borders from invasive pests and diseases.

A Mycoplasma bovis eradication programme is targeting a sole pocket of confirmed infection with a cull starting on a mid-Canterbury feedlot.

The government is reopening longstanding visa categories Pacific Access Category and the Samoan Quota, Immigration Minister Michael Wood has announced. 

New Zealand Food Safety has today removed the public health warning against collecting shellfish from the Taranaki Coast – from Albatross Point to Oakura Beach.

Kono is a Kiwi business that proves “time and time again that purpose and profit can go hand-in-hand,” says the new campaign.

The National Policy Statement for Highly Productive Land will provide protection for the country’s best land and soil so it can be used to produce food, according to HortNZ.

The updated Deer Code of Welfare is a positive forward-looking document, according to Deer Industry New Zealand.

There could be significant advantages for wholesale customers in having access to the duopoly’s private label products, says the government.

The government moves to secure the availability of NZ’s most favourable soils for food production.

Minister of Trade and Export Growth and Minister of Agriculture Damien O’Connor is travelling in India and Indonesia for trade and agricultural meetings.

The government is establishing a Business Payment Practices disclosure regime to improve information and transparency around business-to-business payment practices across the economy.

Plant & Food Research has received New Zealand government funding for three new Smart Ideas projects focused on improving fruit production through better flowering and pollination.

An amendment bill introduced to Parliament today will provide greater economic security for New Zealanders by supporting Fonterra’s move to a new capital structure, says the government.

Food Safety Minister Meka Whaitiri will address the World Dairy Summit in New Delhi this week, the flagship event of the International Dairy Federation.

Research into the value of octopus to NZ aquaculture is one of the food system projects to share more than $30m of investment.

Milk powder, butter, and cheese contributing around a quarter of the $872m worth of goods that were exported by Māori Authorities in 2021, according to a new report released today by Stats NZ.

Two new Post-Study Work Visa changes have been launched to help International students find further work and residence after they complete their studies.

How much food is generated and consumed in Auckland?

WheyTech Bionics NZ is developing what could be the first New Zealand-made sweetener to market – and one that diabetics could also use.

New Zealand Food Safety is inviting public comment on the proposed revision of the Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines Act Guidance Document: Labelling Agricultural Chemicals.

The new programme aims to reduce NZ’s $2.8bn brewing industry’s energy-related emissions.

The Restaurant Association is calling the government’s Better Work Action Plan a ‘duplication’ of work it completed in its own roadmap more than a year ago.

New Zealand Food Safety has extended a public health warning against collecting shellfish in the Waikato region and pushed out the relevant area south to the Taranaki region.

An Auckland pair caught with 222 crayfish from Māhia that they intended to sell on the black market have been sentenced to five months community detention and 140 hours community work.

The Government intends to review the dairy quota allocation system to maximise export returns for New Zealand’s dairy industry, Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor announced.

Researchers are investigating what makes great-tasting pork as part of an innovative eating quality project, with the pork industry aiming to use the findings to develop a quality mark for pork.

Commerce Minister David Clark says regulations could be used to force the duopoly to provide wholesale supply at certain terms, including price and range.

NZFGC and Consumer NZ welcome the government’s wholesale intervention.

New agreements with the meat and seafood sectors will help address worker shortages and unlock value for the economy, says an industry group.

Hospitality New Zealand has welcomed a boost to New Zealand’s Working Holiday Visa programme ahead of what is expected to be a busy summer challenged by worker shortages.

Three pilot projects in Paeroa, Taranaki and Wānaka have each received a share of $8m to revitalise te Taiao and share their pathway with others seeking to revitalise te Taiao in their places.

A total of 29 Pacific businesses located across regional New Zealand have received up to a $100,000 each from the Pacific Aotearoa Regional Enterprise Fund, said Minister for Pacific Peoples Aupito William Sio.

A fishing technology venture developed by Sealord Group, Moana New Zealand, Sanford, and Plant & Food Research has received government backing as it moves to commercialise.

The government’s healthy lunches in school programme, Ka Ora, Ka Ako, has ramped up to deliver a million free lunches to school kids every week.

The seaweed company secures backing from the government’s Regional Strategic Partnership Fund for a $1.5m expansion of its Waikato plant.

The Advertising Standards Authority is conducting its regular review of the Children’s and Young People’s Advertising Codes.

Changes to the Fair Trading Act take effect this week strengthening protections for businesses and consumers and tackling unfair business practices in Aotearoa New Zealand. 

National says labour shortages are worsening food inflation while the Greens want a long-term food price strategy.

Biosecurity co-operation topped the agenda when Australia and New Zealand’s agriculture ministers met last week.

The Ministry for Primary Industries is seeking feedback on the proposed temporary closure of selected fisheries at Taranaki.

New Zealand will remain at the orange traffic light setting, while hospitalisations remain elevated and pressure on the health system continues through winter, the government has announced.

Te Kupenga o Ngati Kuta and Patukeha ki Te Rawhiti have requested a further temporary closure to the take of all fisheries resources, except kina, from Maunganui Bay, Bay of Islands.

The government is partnering with Ngāi Tahu Farming Limited and Ngāi Tūāhuriri on a whole-farm scale study in North Canterbury to validate the science of regenerative farming, Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor has announced.  

BusinessNZ chief executive Kirk Hope says there is not enough flexibility in the tight labour market to address skill shortages as the unemployment rate remains low at 3.3%.

Protecting NZ fisheries and land-based primary industries loom large in list of economic and financial system actions.

The government is co-investing in a $22m programme aimed at significantly reducing agricultural greenhouse gases and nitrate leaching, Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor announced.

Three new residence pathways will be introduced in September 2022 and the same month next year to address worker shortages in highly skilled areas.

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The government is moving to limit the allocation of free credits under the Emissions Trading Scheme from 2024.

The government has created a new investor category aimed at increasing direct foreign investment in New Zealand businesses.

A raft of hospitality outlets were among the fifty businesses that have shared a total of $974,600 from the $1.2m relief fund established by Wellington City Council and the government following the protest occupation in and around parliament earlier this year.

The race is on for NZ Functional Foods to sign up high net worth, institutional, and ESG investors to fund the balance of its $60m oat milk factory.

The fast-changing international trade environment and the need to future-proof the food and fibre sector have prompted a review.

The government has become a supporting member of ANZPAC Plastics Pact, a voluntary platform addressing plastic packaging.

The government is making rapid antigen tests and masks freely available to anyone who needs them as part of several changes to tackle the second Covid-19 Omicron wave and influenza.

“The first step of making this work is understanding the customer need from these retailers who aren’t co-op members,” says the co-op’s boss, Chris Quin.

Will the $6m Regional Strategic Partnership Fund investment be the catalyst for the $50m NZ Functional Food project to move forward?

Three NZ food firms have been picked to take part in a product innovation drive for launch into the Australian market.

The Climate Change Commission said eligible farmers can be ready to effectively participate in a basic farm-level system by the 1 January 2025.

The commerce and consumer affairs minister releases more details of the new watchdog but there’s little detail of its exact powers.

Grocery sector stakeholders have until 10 August to provide feedback on the proposed code.

The trade mission will showcase Kiwi food and beverage in Melbourne and Sydney.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and UK leader Boris Johnson have agreed to a new fast-tracked customs process, which they say will benefit exporters accessing both markets.

The small red meat quotas are a missed opportunity and will continue to constrain exporters, MIA says.

A trade agreement with the European Union must include commercially meaningful outcomes for New Zealand’s meat and dairy exporters, National’s Trade and Export Growth spokesperson Todd McClay says.

Legislation that bans major supermarkets from blocking their competitors’ access to land to set up new stores has passed into law.

Food rescue coordinator New Zealand Food Network has received $440,000 in government funding to install more chillers and freezers in its storage facilities, increasing the capacity to handle surplus and donated food.

Labour is continuing to hammer small businesses and everyday Kiwis, with record inflation leading to the biggest increase in alcohol excise tax in over 30 years, says the ACT Party’s associate finance spokesperson, Damien Smith.

Oceans and Fisheries Minister David Parker will represent Aotearoa New Zealand at the second United Nations (UN) Ocean Conference in Lisbon, Portugal, which runs from 27 June to 1 July.

The United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement Legislation Bill has been introduced to the House.

David Clark wants the Commerce Commission to use proposed new information gathering powers “praoctively” and relegate restrictive land covenants to the history books.

Bay of Plenty’s Ohiwa Black Diamond truffles is receiving more than $155,000 of government funding over three year to share its knowledge with interested growers so New Zealand can grow enough truffles for a robust export industry.

Jacinda Ardern will leave this weekend to tout trade and tourism as NZ seeks to reconnect with overseas markets.

New Zealand cheesemakers have called on the government not to give in to the “demands of Eurocrats” which would strip them of the right to use common description terms like Feta, Parmesan, and Gruyere, as part of EU-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement negotiations.

An agreement aiming to reduce overfishing has been passed by the World Trade Organization after 164 countries spent five days negotiating deals.

Entries are now open for the 2022 New Zealand Biosecurity Awards, which recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions made to protect the country against pests and diseases.

Consultation on the horticulture action plan being developed by industry and government finishes this Friday 17 June.

The government has no plan to address increasing food prices with families continue to suffer, says the National Party’s finance spokesperson, Nicola Willis.

The government is keeping up the public pressure – as well as holding conversations behind closed doors – in its campaign to improve competition in the grocery sector.

Meka Whaitiri has picked up the food safety portfolio and Michael Wood takes immigration after Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern reshuffled her cabinet.

Foodstuffs and Woolworths NZ have taken a stand against the Fair Pay Agreement Bill, arguing it will lead to reduced competition, innovation, and consumer choice – as well as higher prices.

Trade Minister Damien O’Connor is in Geneva for the World Trade Organisation Twelfth Ministerial Conference, where he will help progress New Zealand’s ongoing free trade agreement negotiations with the European Union.

The Ministry for Primary Industries’ Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund is investing $473,261 over two years to enable and empower women working in the dairy sector.

Changes are needed to enable better management of existing aquaculture, and the development of open ocean aquaculture, according to Ocean and Fisheries Minister David Parker.

The government’s release of the Indigenous Biodiversity National Policy Statement exposure draft legislation is badly timed and ill-considered, according to Beef + Lamb New Zealand.

The government’s wholesale market reform could see Foodstuffs and Countdown having to inform the grocery regulator of all supply requests, and give the watchdog the power to compel supply.

Industrial businesses can now apply for support from the expanded Government Investment in Decarbonising Industry (GIDI) Fund.

The government says He Waka Eke Noa – Primary Sector Climate Action Partnership’s proposals on tackling greenhouse gas emissions are a welcome contribution to the debate.

The partnership says its proposal will help farmers and growers transition to lower-emissions food production while maintaining viable businesses.

Fisheries New Zealand is inviting feedback on proposed changes to catch limits and settings for New Zealand’s east coast tarakihi stocks.

Feedback is sought on issues including which retailers should be subject to unit pricing, how said pricing should be displayed and what products should be exempt.

The government’s decision to lift excise on wine by 6.9% from 1 July – the biggest increase in 30 years – cannot be absorbed by wineries already facing big cost increases, according to New Zealand Winegrowers chief executive Philip Gregan.

New Zealand’s pork industry will be in jeopardy if a new draft code of welfare for pigs gets approval, according to ACT’s Primary Industries spokesperson Mark Cameron.

The government is investing $4m over four years from the Ministry of Primary Industries’ Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund to expand a biosecurity readiness and response app developed by Onside.

Industry funding could be part of the new regulatory framework.

New Zealand’s two major supermarket groups have responded to the government’s grocery policy plans by highlighting the role suppliers will play in establishing wholesale market access.

Minister David Clark says action is being taken on all of ComCom’s recommendations and further work is being done on potential store divestment.

Seafood New Zealand says it is still seeking answers from the government to “the most important questions” around the technology and costs involved in the roll-out of cameras on commercial inshore fishing vessels.

Hundreds of New Zealand companies are set to benefit from the launch of two new grants aimed at fuelling firms that want to innovate, says Research, Science and Innovation Minister Megan Woods.

A staged nationwide rollout of cameras on commercial fishing vessels is set to begin, with vessels posing the greatest risk to at-risk protected species, such as Hector’s and Māui dolphins and hoiho, to be first.

PM Jacinda Ardern attended the New York launch of Silver Fern Farms’ USDA-approved Net Carbon Zero By Nature 100% Grass-Fed Angus Beef.

The government is investing $20.3m to modernise New Zealand’s trade certification system in a move its says will help build on Aotearoa’s global reputation for producing trusted food for export.

Four transport firms will share government funding of $30m to help pilot a coastal shipping initiative.

Fisheries New Zealand has completed a survey following the re-opening of the Kaikōura coastline to pāua fishing for a limited season from 1 December to 28 February, after being closed for nearly five years following the 2016 earthquakes.

The plant-based food manufacturer gets a loan of up to $1.25m from the government’s Regional Strategic Partnership Fund.

Silver Fern Farms, Fonterra and Zespri are accompanying Jacinda Ardern, and she will attend a launch event in New York for NZ’s sustainable meat exports.

Ngāti Tamaterā Treaty Settlement Trust, on behalf of Ngāti Tamaterā, has requested a further temporary closure to the harvest of pipi, cockles, mussels and oysters, from Te Mata and Waipatukahu, west Coromandel.

The government has started its reform of the grocery sector by introducing urgent Budget night legislation to stop major supermarkets blocking competitors from accessing land for new stores.

A new team a MBIE is being established with a response to ComCom’s grocery market study one of its first priorities.

AgriTechNZ has backed the government’s proposal for a $340m Centre for Climate Action on Agricultural Emissions as part of its Emissions Reduction Plan, and notes a key role to be played by agritech.

Trade and Export Growth Minister Damien O’Connor is set to travel to Thailand this week to represent New Zealand at the annual APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade meeting in Bangkok.

Food system stakeholders have broadly welcomed the new plan but have called for more detail around the almost-$3bn allocated on initiatives over the next four years.

The govt wants to accelerate the decarbonisation of freight and encourage the use of more electric trucks.

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New sector agreements with the meat processing and seafood industries will be put in place later this year to help develop their workforces, says the government.

The hospitality industry says changes to migrant worker settings will be a welcome relief for businesses struggling to fill vacancies as the country’s border restrictions ease.

The Retail Payment System Bill has passed its third reading, regulating merchant service fees, and reducing a major overhead for small business, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister David Clark said.

The government should regulate access to the wholesale market or set-up a state-owned wholesaler, says the consumer organisation.

The government should regulate access to the wholesale market or set-up a state-owned wholesaler, says the consumer organisation.

The Brewers Association, Brewers Guild of New Zealand, and Hospitality New Zealand are calling on the government to cut its keg beer tax.

Climate Change Minister James Shaw has unveiled New Zealand’s first three emissions budgets, calling them “another milestone on the journey toward a zero-carbon future”.

Parliament’s Primary Production Committee is calling for submissions on the Fisheries Amendment Bill.

The government is investing $110.9m as part of Budget 2022 to protect the primary sector from biosecurity threats and continue its Mycoplasma Bovis eradication.

An eight-month project to explore the bioactive properties of Aotearoa cherries to better understand their potential health benefits has attracted research funding and is now underway.

A milk business has been fined $30,000 for not following the rules that regulate the supply and sale of raw milk.

Seafood New Zealand has questioned why the government has not acted on advice that toxoplasmosis, not fishing, will likely cause the extinction of the Maui and Hector’s dolphins.

The government has extended the consultation period on three proposals released in April to transform recycling in Aotearoa New Zealand, Te Panoni i te Hangarua.

New Zealand’s fisheries and land-based primary industries are two of the most exposed sectors to climate change and the failure of firms to adapt will impact their viability, says the government’s proposed plan to deal with the issue.

DB Breweries, ANZCO and Southern Paprika are among the latest recipients of the $69m GIDI fund, boosting food firms’ total support to $46m.

The government is investing $7.44m to help New Zealand’s apple industry become a world leader in sustainable production practices.

Japan and New Zealand have pledged to better understand respective priorities in agriculture, fisheries, forestry and food systems and build a closer partnership through collaboration on new ideas, technologies and solutions to common challenges.

New Zealanders are set to pay $1.3bn in alcohol excise in 2022, up from $1.22bn last year, says the Brewers Guild of New Zealand.

Apiculture New Zealand has successfully secured funding from the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund, for a two-year project that will help identify how sector can achieve sustainable growth.

Finance minister Grant Robertson has underlined the government’s commitment to boost competition following a 30-year high in inflation.

The government has launched its supply chain consultation document to help future-proof New Zealand against disruption.

The Ministry for the Environment has issued its 2022 guide for organisations to measure and report on emissions.

A working group to help build resilience against current and future supply chain disruption has been announced as part of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s trade mission to Singapore.

Minister David Clark feels the heat from surging food prices and says he has not ruled out going further than ComCom’s grocery market recommendations.

Pressures of land use change and intensification, pollution, and climate change are having a detrimental impact on the environment, according to the government’s Environment Aotearoa 2022 report released today.

Bars, cafes, and restaurants will be able to fill up again with capacity and seating rules lifted, says Chris Hipkins.

Under-pressure meat processors are among business that will benefit from an increase in the class border exceptions and caps.

The majority of New Zealand’s fish stocks are performing well, according to Fisheries New Zealand’s latest status report.

Government proposals would require organisations to take action if they become aware of modern slavery or worker exploitation.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern will lead a trade mission to Singapore and Japan from 18-24 April.

Coca-Cola in New Zealand has welcomed the government’s public consultation proposal for primary schools to only offer water, milk and non-dairy milk alternatives to their students.

NZ shelves could run dry of vodka following the imposition of significant tariffs on Russian products.

The Ministry for the Environment has released its position statement on compostable packaging as part of the government’s National Plastics Action Plan.

The latest report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change makes it clear that a plan to cut emissions is needed now, according to Minister of Climate Change James Shaw.

Meat works around the country are struggling to meet demand due to the government’s failure to keep pace with a vital cog in the supply chain, according to National’s agriculture spokesperson Barbara Kuriger.

It means capacity limits for indoor gatherings, events and hospitality venues remain capped at 200 people.

The Commerce Amendment Bill, which aims to deter anti-competitive conduct, has passed its third and final reading in parliament.

Depleted scallop fisheries at Northland, Hauraki Gulf and Coromandel will close on 1 April.

Transforming recycling with the government’s Container Return Scheme.

The government has entered the mussel hatchery business acquiring equity in an iwi-run venture and committing up to $6m.

Capacity limits for outdoor events will lift completely this weekend and increase to 200 indoors for hospitality venues.

The project will provide Southern Fresh with year-round production of baby leaf salads, herbs, and vegetables. 

The government will cut road user charges by 36% across all legislated rates from late April to late July 2022.

Beef + Lamb New Zealand is urging the government to put limits on the ability of fossil fuel companies to plant trees on productive farmland.

The Māori Party has announced a policy to remove GST from all kai to ease the burden on households struggling through the cost of living crisis.

Vegetable prices will continue to surge ahead if the government doesn’t help growers find ways to lower costs, according to Horticulture New Zealand.

The government brings forward border reopenings for visitors from Australia and visa waiver countries like the US and UK.

There’s criticism of the government’s proposed container return scheme, but beverage giant Coca-Cola looks to support it under certain conditions.

Hospitality and accommodation operators may still have to put up prices despite the fuel and transport cost cuts announced by the government, says Hospitality New Zealand.

The government has laid out its proposed CRS, and claims manufacturers and retailers will be able to pass on costs to the consumer.

But it’s no ‘silver bullet’ for industries struggling to cope with labour shortages.

There are hopes a new market watchdog could apply significant pressure on the country’s supermarket duopoly to act fairly.

Eat New Zealand has secured up to $275,000 of government funding to support its multi-day Feast Matariki festival.

The duopoly pledge to work with the government to implement the Commerce Commission’s final recommendations.

The Commerce Commission is labelled “out-of-touch” for releasing its report while supermarkets are struggling with Omicron impacts.

The isolation period for Covid-19 cases and household contacts will go down to seven days from 10 at 11.59pm on Friday 11 March.

Chair Anna Rawlings defends the report as “robust” and says it is up to the government to decide what to implement.

NZFGC labels the grocery report a victory for suppliers, but says it is now up to the government to respond.

Code of conduct, collective bargaining and disputes resolution scheme all recommended by Commerce Commission.

The commission stepped back from measures like creating a new independent wholesaler.

New Zealanders will soon benefit from a much more competitive grocery sector as a result of market study findings unveiled by the Commerce Commission, says the government.

Australian food firms face stricter rules around the availability, affordability, accessibility, and marketing of food and drinks.

Businesses struggling with Omicron have received the first payment from the government’s financial support scheme.

The deal, signed by Damien O’Connor in the UK overnight, will save NZ exporters $37m a year on tariffs.

The government’s extended the cap on RSE workers for this season but warned there might be hurdles in getting enough people here to finish picking.

t to phase 3 of the Omicron response and an adjustment to conditions in the government’s financial support package announced on Monday.

Rapid antigen tests will also become more widely available in March.

Hospitality New Zealand is warning many of the hardest-hit businesses in the sector may be ineligible for the government’s new support package.

It will help but many in hospitality may still have to shut, say industry groups.

Three payments capped at $24k each will be available for hard-hit businesses.

Waikato-based Ngāti Hauā Iwi Trust is to receive more that $2m to develop a new horticultural programme and education hub.

The prominent hospitality brand has called on the government to throw a lifeline to the sector.

Food sector stakeholders have labelled the government’s rapid antigen test distribution plan “unreliable” as concerns grow over access to RATs.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern will undertake a trade visit to the United States in May focused on New Zealand’s high-technology export sectors, including agri-tech.

Upgrades to New Zealand’s free trade agreement with China will enter into force on 7 April.

The shift will see more widespread use of the govt’s test to return-to-work policy for critical workers in industries such as food.

The National Party says households are going backwards and pay packets are failing to keep up with the rising cost of food.

Beverage makers say the timing could not be worse for a rise in the alcohol excise tax.

The business sector is critical of a move to raise the minimum wage 6% during the expected Omicron wave.

The Government is making $200,000 available to support farmers and growers after major flooding in the South Island.

The supply of RATs remains a concern for some industries, while NZFGC calls the exemption scheme a ‘pragmatic step’.

Critical worker close contacts can keep going to work instead of isolating if they return a negative RAT under the new scheme.

Pressure is mounting on the government to support a global treaty to protect the oceans.

Industries will know by the end of this week which of them are considered critical, says Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

The government has cited New Zealand King Salmon’s difficulties to illustrate that the RMA needs reform.

Farmers and primary producers are getting financial assistance to prepare for an Omicron outbreak.

F&B stakeholders including HortNZ and NZKFG are still waiting to see if exporters are considered critical businesses.

A multi-million-dollar investment is to look at how hemp can be made into food packaging and other innovations.

While it opens for more workers, it comes too late for some and does not do enough to address labour shortages for others.

But they will still need to go into self-isolation, says Jacinda Ardern.

Hospitality New Zealand says the sector also deserves financial assistance to cushion the blow from the Covid-19 pandemic.

By requisitioning rapid antigen tests, has the government exposed food industry directors to claims of recklessness?

The Kraft Heinz Company chair Mike Pretty is to share a Sydney factory Omicron case study with the government.

The government has ordered a further 36 million rapid antigen tests (RATs) to help the country deal with a widespread Omicron outbreak.

The National Party says government inaction on border class exceptions for time-critical workers could have an impact on food production and distribution in New Zealand.

Jacinda Ardern says the country will remain in red “for some weeks” to combat the spread of Omicron.

The government will consider providing more targeted help for the most affected sectors.

The government is investing nearly $2m into a $5m commercial regenerative seaweed farming pilot that aims to provide proof-of-concept for commercial scale production.

FSNI’s CEO makes a last-ditch attempt to sway the outcome of the Commerce Commission’s market study into the retail grocery sector.

Nut butter baron Pic Picot is pushing ahead with his mission to develop homegrown peanuts by bringing forward a project to support marketing opportunities for the spread.

The initiative with AgReseach seeks evidence that regenerative practices can make a positive difference in sustainable food production.

Taranaki – King Country MP Barbara Kuriger retains the opposition agriculture spokesperson role but picks up the shadow biosecurity portfolio.

The Ministry for Primary Industries is investing $650,000 over four years to help stamp out invasive marine pests and help the aquaculture industry.

The government has released a new report into coastal shipping as part of its drive to strengthen New Zealand’s domestic supply chain.

Exclusion from the government’s $37.5m summer reactivation scheme fro Auckland “another kick in the guts” for struggling hospo morale.

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Much of the top half of the North Island will start the new Covid-19 Protection Framework on Friday at red.

The free NZ Pass Verifier app to scan and verify My Vaccine Passes is now available for businesses and events to download.

Employers will soon be able to use a tool from the government the assess whether they need to have their staff vaccinated.

Submissions for the government’s Emissions Reduction Plan must be lodged by tomorrow, Wednesday 24 November.

Businesses will open under the new Covid-19 Protection Framework on Friday 3 December but no region will start in green.

The pilot project aims to enable locally grown hemp food products to compete with imported goods.

The government must set a date for when Auckland’s borders will be lifted and hospitality venues can re-open, says Hospitality New Zealand.

The Ministry for the Environment has launched an online calculator for food producers to obtain an estimate of their farm’s greenhouse gas emissions.

More than 160,000 people have visited the New Zealand Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai since it opened on 30 September.

The Commerce Commission consultation conference as part of its review of competition in the $22bn retail grocery sector has come to a close, providing participants one last chance to plead their cases.

The top half of the Far North has gone into Covid-19 alert level 3 after two unlinked community cases were detected.

The inability of restaurants to open before step 3 of the Covid-19 alert level system is disappointing for the industry, says the Restaurant Association.

A shipment of 300,000 rapid antigen tests has arrived in New Zealand and is now being rolled out across some of the country’s largest businesses as part of a government-approved trial.

New entrants, existing players and would-be investors are all wary of the power wielded by the grocery duopoly, the Commerce Commission hears.

Onions New Zealand says the government’s commitment to invest $2.83m to enhance the competitive advantage of the country’s onions producers will help transform the industry.

The Brewers Association of New Zealand has called on the government to freeze excise on beer in Budget 2022 and introduce a new lower rate on keg beer.

Two cases from one household have been detected in the city.

The government has confirmed a package of changes to improve rent relief measures for both landlords and tenants as part of the Covid-19 Response (Management Measures) Legislation Bill.

Mandating vaccination for hospitality staff is welcome but it could present challenges and extra costs, say industry groups.

Staff vaccination will soon be compulsory for hospitality, events, and other close-contact businesses.

The government is boosting payments to businesses affected by the Delta outbreak as the country transitions to a new Covid-19 Protection Framework.

Plaudits are rolling in for the government’s in-principle free trade agreement with the United Kingdom, which could result in a $1bn boost to GDP.

New Zealand’s largest kiwifruit grower has upgraded its profit guidance for FY21.

The deal will eliminate tariffs on all NZ honey, wine, kiwifruit, onions, and a range of dairy and meat products.

In an open letter to Parliament, the unlikely allies call on MPs to support a “strong intervention” into NZ’s grocery market.

The National Party has launched its Back in Business recovery plan it says will “save livelihoods and unleash our economy”.

The Restaurant Association has welcomed a move by the government to introduce an enhanced business support package.

The government is seeking feedback on proposals for a new waste strategy and options for legislation.

A freight and supply chain strategy, developing a circular economy and bioeconomy, and further reducing and separating food waste are among new low-emission initiatives the government is seeking feedback on.

Hospitality New Zealand has welcomed the Government’s move to extend Working Holiday and SSE work visas by six months to allow onshore migrants to help fill labour shortages over summer.

The government has extended working holiday and supplementary seasonal employment work visas by six months.

Views are being sought on the industry’s bill for the $68m scheme.

The Commerce Commission has published a statement of preliminary issues relating to the New Zealand Tegel Growers Association application to collectively negotiate conditions around its supply arrangement with Tegel Foods.

Northland and Waikato might be able to move to level 2 this Thursday midnight.

The new business would be a top three wholesale pie company in NZ but it wouldn’t weaken competition, says George Weston Foods.

The government is meeting business leaders today to discuss a rollout of rapid antigen tests to help keep workplaces safe.

Foodstuffs North Island, Woolworths New Zealand, and Mainfreight are among a group of the country’s largest companies calling for emergency approval of rapid antigen tests.

Kaikōura’s pāua fishery, which has been closed since the November 2016 earthquakes disrupted local seabeds, is to reopen.

Targetted support for the hospitality sector is desperately needed if businesses in Auckland are to survive, say industry groups.

PM Jacinda Ardern outlines the government’s new three-step plan to ease restrictions in the city.

Stores have reduced hours and shifted to level 3 protocols after parts of the region entered lockdown overnight.

Silver Fern Farms says securing a $1m grant from the government will help the company end coal use by 2030.

Meadow Mushrooms, Talley’s and Mataura Valley Milk among latest recipients of $70m GIDI fund.

The 2021 Resident Visa could allow around 17,000 workers in the food and accommodation sectors to stay in NZ.

Businesses can now apply to take part in the government’s self-isolation pilot scheduled to start in October.

The Brewers Association of New Zealand is calling on the government to provide targeted support for hospitality.

Measures are being taken to help businesses resolve disputes over commercial rent, says the government.

The pilot will allow a short business trip overseas for fully-vaccinated people but they must self-isolate for 14 days when they return to New Zealand.

One-way, quarantine-free travel for Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) workers from Vanuatu will be allowed from 4 October, says the government.

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An overwhelming majority of consumers believe they pay too much for goods at supermarkets and the current duopoly should be split up, according to a survey commissioned by lobby group Monopoly Watch NZ.

The Kiwi Bottle Drive has launched an ad campaign to encourage the government to immediately implement a beverage container return scheme.

PM Jacinda Ardern says the rest of NZ will remain at level 2 but the indoor cap of 50 people will lift to 100.

The Egg Producers Federation says it believes an outbreak of salmonella enteritidis on three layer farms earlier this year is contained and will be eliminated.

The Commerce Commission has received an application from the New Zealand Tegel Growers Association seeking authorisation for collective bargaining with Tegel Foods.

Regulated product stewardship of plastic packaging, exploring compostable packaging options, and a potential container return scheme are part of the government’s new national plastics plan. 

Prime minister Jacinda Ardern is one of more than 90 world leaders who are set to participate in the historic UN Food Systems Summit next week.

Food firms want wide stakeholder buy-in to a code that provides a framework for behaviour and confidence for investment decisions.

Hospitality New Zealand has called on the government to provide clarity over eligibility for the wage subsidy.

The plan was expected to be released by this December.

CEO Chris Quin says the co-op will make changes but he disputes ComCom’s estimate of the supermarket group’s profitability.

NZFGC’s boss says FSNI has thrice refused to sign up to a code of conduct, but Rich welcomed a “first step” towards a more competitive market.

The extension of Auckland’s level 4 lockdown for at least a week increases the likelihood of more hospitality operators going out of business, says Hospitality New Zealand.

The decision to keep Auckland at Covid-19 alert level 4 has triggered a third round of the wage subsidy scheme, which will open for applications at 9am this Friday.

The latest update to Delta locations of interest in Auckland sees more supermarkets added to the Ministry of Health’s list.

Cabinet will decide this afternoon whether to reduce the Covid-19 alert level 4 setting for Auckland.

The Restaurant Association has welcomed two Delta-era government decisions, namely to extend the resurgence support payment scheme and to confirm customer-facing hospitality staff can receive priority vaccinations.

The Restaurant Association and Hospitality New Zealand are calling on the government to provide targeted support for struggling hospitality businesses.

Inland Revenue is seeing increased demand for resurgence support payments and other assistance schemes that it administers due to the Delta outbreak, according to revenue minister David Parker.

The government’s Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund is contributing $2.6m towards a $5m project to develop a commercial-scale autonomous robotic asparagus harvester.

Beverage business Lion New Zealand has been fined $10,000 for breaching the Overseas Investment Act when it bought a South Island leasehold farm in 2017.

The Ministry for Primary Industries will close the east Coromandel scallop fishery for two years following a request from the Ngāti Hei Trust, which has concerns around the sustainability of stocks.

Smart food packaging, a NZ tree syrup industry, and open ocean aquaculture secure significant research funding.

The Restaurant Association is urging the government to come up with targeted support that reflects the dire situation of its members. 

The government is investing $6.68m in a $16.7m genetics programme to lower the beef sector’s greenhouse gas emissions by delivering cows with a smaller environmental hoof-print.

The Brewers Association of New Zealand has called on the government to allow for refund or remission of excise tax on returned product that is wasted as a result of Covid-19 lockdowns.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has said it is making continued progress towards a free trade agreement with the United Kingdom. A deal was meant to be concluded at the end of August.

The 50-person limit on indoor venues will hurt already struggling operators, say industry groups.

The Commerce Commission has updated its information regarding country of origin labelling as part of the Consumer Information Standards (Origin of Food) Regulations 2021.

However, the move comes with new restrictions including lower caps on the number of customers a venue can host.

Export prices for goods rose 8.3% on the previous quarter in the three months to June 2021, while import prices rose 4.8%, according to Stats NZ.

Businesses affected by the latest Covid-19 alert level lockdowns can apply for the next instalment of the government’s reactivated wage subsidy from today, Friday 3 September.

Many hospitality businesses will fail due to the lockdown unless the government provides targeted support, says Hospitality New Zealand.

Biosecurity New Zealand says it is strengthening its testing processes for the oyster parasite Bonamia ostreae after a review found that human error contributed to incorrectly interpreted results being reported for Foveaux Strait in March.

Penny Nelson is leaving the Ministry for Primary industries to become the Department of Conservation’s director-general and chief executive.

Northland can move to level 3 this Thursday but Auckland will stay in level 4 lockdown until 14 September.

The National Party has appointed new spokespeople to a range of portfolios related to New Zealand’s food system.

The government has provided an extra $7m for food security networks operating at Covid-19 alert level 4.

The government is in “really close contact” with the country’s supermarkets to support them through lockdown challenges, says PM Jacinda Ardern.

However, Auckland could stay at level 4 for a further two weeks.

The Motor Trade Association has expressed its frustration at a rule change made by the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment that prevents service stations selling hot drinks and bakery food.

The government’s Covid-19 Resurgence Support Payment is now open for application.

Apple wine and honey tariffs to be slashed, but no particulars yet for the red meat sector.

PM Jacinda Ardern says there are 14,000+ contacts, some of whom are in the South Island.

Agriculture and food ministers from APEC economies have committed to delivering a new roadmap to guide efforts to boost food security over the next ten years, according to agriculture minister Damien O’Connor.

The government is restarting childcare for workers in Alert Level 4 businesses and services, which was available during last year’s national lockdown, education minister Chris Hipkins has confirmed.

We do not yet know the full scale of this Delta outbreak, says Jacinda Ardern.

Retailers and manufacturers stand up lockdown protocols to cater for customers and protect workers.

Coromandel’s Star and Garter Hotel is among more than a dozen hospitality, tourism, and retail outlets named locations of interest.

The government will activate the Covid-19 Resurgence Support Payment (RSP) and the Wage Subsidy Scheme (WSS) to support businesses during the nationwide lockdown.

More than 180 primary sector leaders joined a virtual meeting with agriculture minister Damien O’Connor this morning.

Fonterra’s calculation of the base milk price it will pay farmers in the 2020/21 dairy season is consistent with the Dairy Industry Restructuring Act (DIRA), says the Commerce Commission.

The United Arab Emirates presents a fertile market for New Zealand food and beverage exports particularly for fruit and honey products, according to new research from New Zealand Trade and Enterprise.

Business travel, the ability to access skilled staff, and the hospitality sector will all benefit from a successful implementation.

The value of the New Zealand potato industry sits at $1.16bn, up 58% since targets were set in 2013, according to Potatoes New Zealand.

The Primary Production Committee is calling for public submissions on its inquiry into the future of the workforce needs in the primary industries of New Zealand.

New Zealand will start a phased border re-opening in early 2022, says Jacinda Ardern.

With deployments in ventures like Rockit and Sunfed, NZ Growth Capital Partners outlines what it looks for in food and agritech.

The 2021 whitebaiting season is about to kick off with new regulations rolling out over three whitebaiting seasons following two years of public engagement.

The seafood industry has criticised environmental groups for calling on bottom trawling to be banned.

CEO David Hughes is looking for partners in emerging areas such as orchard automation and urban horticulture.

The horticulture and viticulture sectors are breathing a collective sigh of relief at the government’s decision to streamline the entry of seasonal workers from the Pacific.

HortNZ will support “any move to ensure that growers get a better return on their investment, so that they will continue to invest in fruit and vegetable growing meaning New Zealanders can eat healthy, locally produced food”. 

Separating NZ’s supermarket duopoly from wholesaler subsidiaries like Gilmours could help suppliers, says the Commerce Commission’s grocery sector draft report.

A third major player could be introduced to compete with Foodstuffs and Countdown, according to the strongest draft report recommendation.

The introduction of a new, lower priced competitor into the grocery market would see shoppers abandon stalwarts Countdown and Foodstuffs in droves, according to one industry expert.

The Commerce Commission backs a mandatory industry code of conduct and allowing suppliers to bargain collectively with supermarkets.

SAFE has accused the Ministry for Primary Industries of “failing in its duty to enforce animal welfare” by not prosecuting a farm where a power outage suffocated and killed 180,000 chickens.

NZFGC boss Katherine Rich repeats calls for a mandatory Grocery Code of Conduct on the eve of the draft ComCom report being released.

The new innovation hub will fill a “glaring gap in the food bowl of New Zealand,” says the project’s boss.

New Zealand Food Safety is extending a programme of testing to determine the extent of Salmonella Enteritidis in poultry flocks in New Zealand and to reduce the risk to consumers.  

Legislation doubling employees’ minimum sick leave entitlement to 10 days came into effect on Saturday 24 July.

The government is pumping a total of $1.56m into five projects to help address food waste.

Japanese demand for premium products, products that are safe, sustainable, and trustworthy fits NZ’s F&B profile.

Fisheries New Zealand is inviting feedback on proposed changes to catch limits and settings for tarakihi stocks on New Zealand’s east coast.

A draft report as part of a year-long review of NZ’s highly concentrated grocery sector will be made public next Thursday morning.

Government policy on freshwater and greenhouse gases must support the horticulture industry and not add unnecessary cost and compliance, according to HortNZ.

Changes to the essential skills visa will bring more certainty to accommodation and hospitality businesses struggling to fill vacancies, say industry groups.

Too many jobs are being created in the low-wage economy, says the finance minister.

The director of Auckland restaurant Kiran Cuisine has been ordered to pay full arrears of $75,026.18 in unpaid minimum wage, leave, and holiday pay to a former employee, as well as a further $50,000 in penalties.

The Financial Markets Authority has found no evidence to press forward with action against Fonterra regarding the timing of accounting write-downs for Beingmate Baby and Child Food Co and the China Farm assets.

The New Zealand Food & Grocery Council said it will support its members to transition to the mandatory addition of folic acid to bread by 2023, following the governments announcement yesterday.

Plant & Food Research has published a new statement of corporate intent describing its strategy, key initiatives and performance measures for 2021/22. It also forecasts activity out to 2023/24.

Bakers will have two years to start adding the B vitamin folic acid to their non-organic bread-making wheat flour.

The Commerce Commission has updated its approach paper outlining the framework it applies when reviewing both how Fonterra sets its annual base milk price and the Milk Price Manual used to set the base milk price.

The legislation that replaces the Resource Management Act must ensure that New Zealand can sustainably grow fresh, healthy food for domestic consumption, according to Horticulture New Zealand.

Seafood NZ has welcomed the government’s inquiry into foreign workers but warns getting more Kiwis involved in the sector will be a challenge.

Former Sanford COO Greg Johansson will help conduct the inquiry.

The association welcomes government’s moves to phase out problem plastics and some single-use plastics within four years, but warns that a smooth transition by some food producers could be hindered by global freight issues.