Show Rundown: CountryWide Connect Friday 10th April 2026

Today we cover Cyclone Vianau, on-farm resilience, animal health, and the financial opportunities shaping the sector, before wrapping with a full weekend sports preview.

Hon Mark Mitchell (Minister for Emergency Management)
An update on Cyclone Vianau, outlining the risks across the North Island and what farmers and rural communities need to be doing now.

Mark Leslie (CEO, Pāmu)
Responds to criticism from Damien O’Connor following footage of skinny heifers, addressing animal welfare concerns and Pāmu’s management systems.

Dr Kwasi Adusei-Fosu (Bioeconomy Science Institute)
A follow-up on facial eczema, detailing a potential breakthrough that targets the fungus at pasture level.

Dave Handley (General Manager – BNZ Agribusiness & Corporate Banking)
How farmers can make the most of the Fonterra capital return payment and position themselves financially.

Tony Trewinnard (Blueskies Weather)
The latest weather outlook and what it means on the ground as Cyclone Vianau approaches.

DAIRY Country Podcast
Anne Lee from the Dairy Country Podcast speaks to Lynaire Ryan and Paul Bird about insights into how farmers can build equity and long-term wealth in the dairy sector.

Graeme Beasley & Dave Worsley (Sportstalk)
A full weekend sports preview covering Super Rugby, the Warriors clash with the Storm, and the start of the netball season.

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