Housing boost

NATIONAL - The South Island rural real estate market has had a positive start, according to Colliers New Zealand. They believe that’s due in part to strong milk price forecasts and increased demand for dairy in the last year. Christchurch director for rural and agribusiness said farmers’ efforts to make their businesses profitable has driven a surge in real estate interest.

More job cuts likely

NATIONAL - Crown-owned research entity Callaghan Innovation has confirmed more jobs cuts are on their way. Callaghan will be dissolved as part of the government’s science sector rework by October this year and replaced by new organisations by year’s end. 67 roles were recently announced to be non-renewing, on top of 40 announced previously.

Something fishy

NATIONAL - New Zealand King Salmon is being investigated by the Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI). Animal welfare group Save Animals From Exploitation (SAFE) claim their “intensive” farming practices, like warmer water leading to increased stress, were the cause of their high summer mortality rates. “Without urgent action fishes will continue to suffer in tragic conditions with no meaningful protection,” SAFE Campaign Manager Emily Hall said.

Grass watch

INTERNATIONAL - an AI tool able to detect pasture cover is making its way to New Zealand. Aimer Farming claims a five second, 180 degree scan of a paddock with a phone can tell a farmer about their grass with 90% accuracy. Founder and chief technology officer Jeremy Bryant said the tool allows farmers to “optimise grazing, reduce waste, and improve profitability - all without increasing labour costs.”

by Anisha Satya