Agreement has been finalised between the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and China’s customs authorities (GACC) to resume exports of New Zealand frozen deer velvet to the valuable Chinese market, effective immediately.

As shareholders of OSPRI, we wish to provide you a further update on key changes we have made to strengthen OSPRI’s capability and governance following significant issues with a major technology upgrade. These include new directors to the OSPRI Board effective from today, alongside greater oversight of the overall functioning of OSPRI into the future.

Throughout October, the Ballance Farm Sustainability team have commenced another two cohorts of catchment-focused integrated farm plan (IFP) workshops. Our Waikaka workshop commenced 9 October, while Waikaia kicked off 29 October.

Deer Industry New Zealand (DINZ) is pleased to announce the launch and subsequent availability for use of Deer Select 2, the first major update to the industry’s national deer genetics records database since 2005.

On 23 October, Deer Industry New Zealand (DINZ) confirmed the appointment of John Tacon to the DINZ board as one of the four New Zealand Deer Farmers Association (NZDFA) producer representatives on the eight-member industry board. 

The first quarterly report from the North American Retail Accelerator (NARA) project has been finalised, and the early results are heartening, hinting at the market’s potentia

On 17 October, the world lost a true legend. It was with deep sorrow that the Ryal Bush Transport family announced the passing of Wayne "Ox" McEwan. A larger-than-life character, Ox was a cornerstone of the New Zealand transport industry and a true pioneer of deer transport in this country.

Deer products, including velvet, are part of the National Chemical Residues Programme (NCRP), and if residues are found either here in New Zealand or our overseas markets, it could impact our wider trade. 

While both theory and practical knowledge were tested at the inaugural Young Deer Farmer Competition, held near Geraldine, it was the informal chats with those in the industry and the camaraderie quickly forged that were the real prizes of the day, for both contestants and the hosts. 

Meet and Greet: Damon Paling | Industry News: A leader to many, Fair game, Zooming in on elk, Stag sale calendar 2024/25 | DINZ News: RAP seeks input, Advance Parties facilitators gather at High Peak | Venison: New chapter, No quarter spared | NZDFA: Diverse lineup, Tick talk | On Farm: Hunkering down for good, Livestock contracts help cashflow lease | Animal Health: A look ahead to fawning | Recipe: Venison Cornish pasties