Rural
A 'beautiful abundant food system' for future generations
Jared Hiakita has been germinating a seed of an idea while nurturing his food forest at the off-grid family farm in Hokianga. The seed has grown into a charity which will grow and donate fruit tree… Audio
"They're not just clients they're friends "
Erin Middleton owns the only hair salon between Kaikoura and Amberley. The Cheviot hairdresser, who is also an emergency first responder, says she enjoys listening to her clients stories as much as… Audio
On the Farm - a wrap of conditions around the country
In Pukekohe, a mild winter weather has prevailed with regular rainfall. Vegetables are literally jumping out of the ground. Marlborough grape growers have finished with pruning and most are on track… Audio
Country Life for Friday 2 August 2024
This week the Country Life team meet a shearer nicknamed Bo Peep who's found her dream job and they explore a food forest in the Hokianga. Audio
The effects of doctor shortages through the eyes of practitioners and patients
The chronic doctor shortage is being felt across the country, but it is those in the regions and rural areas that are feeling the most pain. Audio
Country life for Friday 26 July 2024
This week Country Life meets a farmer who's been on a 35-year quest to breed the perfect cashmere goat.. a chat with a dirtbike enduro champion who's helping farm workers ride their two wheelers… Audio
'A lot of hype': Powers of plantain questioned
A new study has found research into the benefits of the common grazing herb on nitrogen leaching did not stand up to scrutiny in a NZ context.
Greens challenge maths on ag-tech fund
A Treasury letter shows total funding for the Accelerating New Mitigations Programme was reduced by $48 million, while the government claims emissions research has been boosted under its watch.
'See, feel, touch': How a riverside farm connects with community
A South Wairarapa riverside farm is turning into a rich classroom, offering lessons in science and the environment, maths, language, and legends of the land. Audio
Cashmere goat farmer wants to reboot luxurious fibre industry
David Shaw has been on a 35-year goat fibre journey on his farm in South Otago. It began with 50 multi-coloured feral goats and now, through selective breeding, he runs 700 creamy white goats and… Video, Audio
Tips for farmworkers from dirt bike champions
Four of the country's champion endurance motorbike riders are offering lessons around the country on how to ride farm bikes safely. They're hoping the fundraiser will help them get to Spain in October… Audio
MPI back at Southland farm where cows were mistreated
MPI staff are on Friday back at a farm where winter grazing practices were so bad seven cows had to be euthanised last month.
Rural communities fear NZ Post retreating from farming areas
Postal services are to stop in two Tasman towns next month.
A New Zealand sheep milk company scores a big win in China
It is only the second international sheep milk brand in the world to gain brand registration for its infant milk formula.
From pup to pro: Following a Wairarapa working dog's journey
Meet Miley, a seven-month-old huntaway with great potential. She's the third generation bred by award-winning dog triallist Chris Shaw and we'll follow along as he trains her up. Audio
Mosgiel tech company uses AI to help farmers figure out when - and how - to drench sheep
New technology is helping farmers to prevent drench resistance and keep sheep parasite-free. Audio
