Show Rundown: CountryWide Connect

Wednesday 8th April 2026

Today we tackle the escalating fuel security crisis and provide practical tools for farmers to navigate the logistical and mental pressures of an unsettled rural economy.

• Chris Gourley (CEO, Farmlands Energy)
  An urgent update on the diesel supply crunch. Chris discusses regional exposure, the drivers behind the current pressure, and what farmers must do to manage fuel security in the short term.
• Hon Mike Butterick (Associate Minister of Agriculture)
  In his first appearance since taking the role, the Minister outlines the Government’s response to fuel volatility and his immediate priorities for restoring rural confidence.
• David Birkett (Federated Farmers Arable Chair)
  Addressing the human side of uncertainty. David discusses how the Feds are advocating for practical support as farmers face compounding financial and emotional stress.
• Campbell Parker (CEO, DairyNZ)
  The dairy levy vote results are in. Campbell breaks down the mandate for the future and how DairyNZ is pivoting to support farmers through the current operating environment.
• Lance Burdett (Warn International)
  Resilience under pressure. The renowned crisis negotiator shares mental tools to help farmers stay focused and functional while dealing with high-stakes uncertainty.
• Sam McIvor (CEO, OSPRI)
  A deep dive into the proposed NAIT accreditation changes and what they mean for animal traceability and long-term biosecurity efficiency.
• Conan Moynihan (Groundshift)
  Transitioning from Quorum Sense to Groundshift, the team discusses how to reduce reliance on high-cost inputs like fertilizer without crashing farm profitability.

 

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