Farming
A hearty Ngāti horsewoman Rore’s story
Tuhimoana - known as Rore Aupouri runs Makarika Station, on the east coast. Though the mahi is hard, it’s clear that for Rore farming, training her dogs and riding on horseback isn’t just a job – it’s… Audio
Wattie's NZ's proposed cuts 'a really big blow' to seed, arable growers
The seed industry was taking stock of what last week's announcement by Wattie's would mean for growers.
Morning Rural News for 17 March 2026
The latest rural news with Gianina Schwanecke. Audio
Farmers face uncertain future as fuel prices skyrocket
Gavins business manager Chris Paterson said they have been forking out an extra $60,000 a week since prices went up. Audio
Making memories at the Shepherdess Muster
A weekend retreat filled with crafts, relaxation, learning, fun and connection in the remote rural community of Tokanui in Southland.
A grape harvest pick 'n' mix
Friends, fun and community are all in the mix at a small Wairarapa vineyard's first grape pick of the season.
'Breaking a sweat, having some fun': How line dancing found a home in the city
Line dancing is accessible, low-pressure, and fun to do with friends - and townies are among its biggest fans, Country Life discovered.
Making memories at the Shepherdess Muster
A weekend retreat filled with crafts, relaxation, learning, fun and connection in the remote rural community of Tokanui in Southland. Audio
Let's go line dancing
The rurally-rooted dance style has had a resurgence across New Zealand. Country Life went to see what the hype is all about. Audio
Pick and be merry - harvest time at Big Sky Wines
It's the first pick of the season for boutique winegrowers Jeremy Corban and Katherine Jacobs of Big Sky Wines, at Te Muna Road just out of Martinborough in Wairarapa. Audio
Country Life Friday 13 March 2026
This week Country Life is helping with the grape harvest, taking you line-dancing and meeting rural women at the Shepherdess Muster. Audio
Dairy payouts and Kiwisaver changes with Steve Hayidakis
ANZ's general manager for business and agri discusses how the Fonterra consumer brands sale will impact rural towns and supermarket shelves. Audio
'Another nail in the coffin': Wattie's supplier fears for industry
Methven farmer Hamish Marr has supplied Wattie's with peas for around 20 years, and says the proposed closures is devastating for staff and growers alike. Audio
Pre-harvest karakia brings together team at kiwifruit orchard
About 100 people are expected at Friday's blessing at Pukerau Orchard, which has been owned by Ngāti Hine Forestry Trust since 2018.
Vege growers blindsided by Watties proposal
The ripple effect of the closure would hit Canterbury farmers who produce about 36 thousand tonnes of peas every year for Watties. Audio
National would only support 'gold standard' live animal exports, Todd McClay says
The Agriculture Minister has confirmed National has withdrawn its support for resuming live animal exports by sea. Audio
