Federated Farmers back RMA reforms, Bird Flu found in UK sheep, and Young Farmer contest crowns Canterbury champion.

Welcome to Proud Country's Early Bird - The top things you need to know that impact rural New Zealand delivered to you by 5am, because who doesn’t need better chat beyond the weather!

 

Federated Farmers back RMA reforms

Federated Farmers have welcomed significant changes to planning and environmental legislation, describing the new laws as a major win for property rights and agricultural productivity. The proposed reforms aim to replace the existing Resource Management Act with what the farming body calls a pragmatic approach to land use regulation.

Key changes include compensation requirements for councils imposing land-use restrictions and a more flexible approach to property development. Federated Farmers RMA reform spokesperson Mark Hooper sees significant improvements, particularly around restrictive landscape overlays that have previously limited farmer activities.

The reforms will require councils to pay compensation when property rights are substantially restricted, creating what Hooper describes as a "healthy tension" in local government decision-making. This means farmers will be compensated for significant limitations on land use, such as restrictions on development or land conversion.

The new legislation also prioritises national standards, with the Freshwater Farm Plan model positioned as a preferred approach to environmental management. Hooper emphasised the need for flexibility, noting that farming conditions vary across different catchments and communities.

 

Bird Flu found in UK sheep

Britain has reported the first known case of bird flu detected in a sheep, adding another chapter to the growing list of mammalian infections worldwide. The ewe, found on a Yorkshire farm, tested positive for the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus during routine surveillance.

Experts say the case appears contained, with the infected sheep culled and no further infections found in the flock. The detection follows similar outbreaks among various mammals, including dairy cows in the United States and bears, cats, and dolphins globally.

The UK Health Security Agency emphasised that while mammals can be infected, the current evidence suggests the virus does not spread easily to humans. The risk to the general public remains veacry low.

Researchers are monitoring the situation closely, noting parallels with recent dairy cow infections in the United States. Surveillance of livestock on premises with confirmed bird flu has been increased as a precautionary measure.

 

Rodeo crowds surge at national finals

The National Rodeo Finals packed out the Kihikihi Domain on Saturday, with more than 13,000 people attending and late arrivals turned away after exceeding expected capacity. Ross Dowling from Alexandra claimed the All Around Cowboy national title for 2025, highlighting a season of competitive events across multiple disciplines.

Eight top competitors battled it out in categories including saddle bronc riding, barrel racing, and steer wrestling. Other national champions included Brett McCorkindale in bareback, Lane Whitelock in saddle bronc, Brooke Atkinson in barrel racing, and Sophie Smith in breakaway roping.

The event drew both enthusiastic supporters and animal rights protesters, with SAFE staging a peaceful protest of 23 people at the domain gates. The Ministry for Primary Industries confirmed rodeos are operating under the Animal Welfare Act, with veterinarians and welfare inspectors monitoring events.

Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard, who opened the event, described it as a positive opportunity for rural communities to connect.

 

Agricultural Field Days rev up in Kirwee

The South Island Agricultural Field Days roar into life today at Kirwee, bringing three days of machinery demonstrations and agricultural excitement that promises something for every farmer and rural enthusiast.

Event chairperson Andrew Stewart highlights the unique focus on live machinery demonstrations, with an entire arena dedicated to showcasing farm equipment in action. Farmers will get up close with the latest tractors, with a special Top Tractor Shootout putting new models through their paces in real-world farming tasks.

The site will host over 600 exhibitors, with a new Map My Show app helping visitors navigate the expansive grounds. A dedicated KidsZone and agri-kids challenge will keep younger attendees entertained.

With strong exhibitor bookings reflecting sector confidence, the event expects around 30,000 visitors. Powered by a committee of 30 volunteers, the field days offer everything from machinery demonstrations to a cowboy challenge, food trucks, and retail stalls.

The Field Days wrap up on Friday.

Young Farmer contest crowns Canterbury champion

 

George Letham from Banks Peninsula has been crowned Tasman's FMG Young Farmer of the Year, securing victory at the Malvern A&P Show. The Lincoln-based farmer, who grew up on a dairy farm near Rakaia, edged out six contestants through a series of challenging modules and practical skills tests.

Competing in the contest's 57th year, Letham found the challenges diverse, particularly the sheep-focused tasks that tested his skills outside his dairy background.

The competition, which celebrates top talent in New Zealand's food and fibre sector, tested contestants on practical skills, technical knowledge, and a bility to perform under pressure. Letham finished ahead of Lincoln Young Farmers member Cameron Brans, with Sam Smithers from Dunsandel taking third place.

With the Grand Final in Invercargill approaching in July, Letham is already preparing, acknowledging he needs to brush up on sheep farming and fencing skills. 

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