Strong cattle demand continues to push prices higher, with a standout Matawhero sale delivering exceptional returns despite East Coast road closures. AgriHQ analyst Suz Bremner explains the impact of weather and tight supply on the market. Blair Rooney from Farm Focus discusses how AI is helping farmers improve financial management through smarter data analysis. Haast farmer Simon Cameron reflects on representing New Zealand at a major global agriculture forum in Berlin, while Federated Farmers raises concerns over generator charges for storm-hit farmers.

AgriHQ Insight | Sky-high cattle prices despite East Coast disruptions
1:51 – AgriHQ analyst Suz Bremner says the ongoing demand for cattle, particularly in light of recent weather challenges, has led to remarkable pricing trends in the market. A highlight of the week was a consignment of adult cattle sold at Matawhero, with prices sky high despite a change of venue with East Coast roads closed.

Feature | How AI can work for your farm finances
7:10 – Blair Rooney from Farm Focus discusses the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in financial management for farmers. He emphasises that AI is not meant to replace human decision-making but to assist in making better and faster decisions. The discussion covers the benefits of AI in analyzing large data sets, the importance of building trust in AI technology, and the future potential of AI in agriculture, particularly in data utilisation and analysis.

Feature | Global farming reps meet in Europe
19:35 – Haast farmer Simon Cameron recently travelled to the annual Global Forum for Food and Agriculture in Berlin, where he was part of the International Young Farmers’ Forum. He shares his experience.

Feds Focus | Generator charges hit storm-blown farmers
29:15 – Jason Herrick of Federated Farmers Southland says the money being charged for generators during the recent wind storms was exorbitant, and he’s asking for a rethink on how aid is delivered to those in need.

The Final Word | Innovating with intent
35:33 – While many commentators rail against “Frankenfood” and the protein alternatives now on the market, they fail to see the benefits that food technology brings the sector, and to those people who can’t afford meat, milk and cheese.