Country Life

Tom Welch is tired of dairying and has been looking for another way to make money from the family farm. He’s begun growing pumpkin seeds – and thinks he may be the only person in New Zealand producing them commercially.

Global head of agri-business Ian Proudfoot outlines just a few of the many key issues covered in the agenda.

A selection of farmers tell us about conditions in their part of the country and how they feel about farming. Waikato, King Country, Taupo, Canterbury, West Coast, Central Otago.

A selection of farmers tell us about conditions in their part of the country and how they feel about farming. Waikato, King Country, Taupo, Canterbury, West Coast, Central Otago. Global head of agri-business Ian Proudfoot outlines just a few of the many key issues covered in the agenda. om Welch is tired of dairy farming and has been looking for another way to make money from the family farm. He's growing pumkpin seeds - and thinks he may be the only one growing them commercially in New Zealand. The Forest Owners Association, Federated Farmers and Fifty Shades of Green talk about the billion trees project.

Invercargill contract milker Tangaroa Walker is looking at drying off his herd of 500 cows after a great season. He says milk production is up 15 percent on last year and grass and winter crops are thriving in the warmer-than-usual soils.

Northland couple Robin and Heather Nitschke make relish and vinaigrette with tamarillos from their own orchard. Last year, their For the Love of Tams vinaigrette was judged Best New Product at a prestigious New York food show.

FarmHand connects young people with permanent work or further education through hands-on outdoor work experience. The 9-week intensive course is run by the Malcam Trust, a youth-focused training provider based at the former Kaituna Bowling Club in Dunedin.

A Waikato Regional Council sustainability expert, and agricultural economist explain the three greenhouse gases caused by farming in clear, straightforward ways. Can farmers alter their farming practises to reduce emissions ... yes and sort of: it's not totally simple or clear cut.

Wet muddy conditions have halted work on some market gardens near Pukekohe and in the South Island, the West Coast's had its first winter frost.

The team catch up with a young and ambitious Southland dairy farmer who manages to find time to work on several off farm activities, we'll also find out about a educational programme that connects young people with permanent work or further education through hands-on outdoor work experience....