Jul 9, 2026
Exec Update - Tom MacFarlane | Issue 222 | July 2026
Winter has finally arrived in the South Island in time for the school holidays. Snow and flooding are causing some logistical issues as we speak. However ski fields will be rapt to get open and underway for the second week of holidays. The weather is also a timely reminder that although El Nino is now locked in, that doesn’t necessarily mean it won’t rain at all.
As we build toward another season with commodity prices looking solid, I believe farmers need to focus on how they can use the positive times to embed longer term production, profitability and resilience into their businesses. At DFA we are continuing to advocate for farmers to make sure they can just worry about the farming part.
As for most, the autumn and early winter have been fantastic in South Canterbury with farmers still reporting grass growth through the South Island. Fears of going into a dry spring/summer with low moisture levels have now been alleviated across most of the country.
All the venison companies now have a contract out, ranging from 6-12 months in duration. The levels represent another welcome increase over last year’s contracts peaking around $12/kg and also giving a high degree of certainty with their length.
Velvet is still a work-on, but positive conversations have been had between NZDFA, DINZ and some exporters around improvements for the coming season.
The Executive committee would like to welcome Paddy Boyd back to the DINZ Board after the Selection and Appointments Panel process in June. The industry is lucky to have such an experienced, skilled individual keen to continue contributing to the industry for another 3 years.
I would also like to thank Karen Middleberg and Mark Mcoard for the knowledge and skills they’ve passed on over the previous year I’ve sat with them on the committee. Also welcome to Grant and Richard as new members on the exec.
On July 22nd July there is a special general meeting being held at the Commodore Hotel in Christchurch to consider the suspension of Mr Barry Cuttance from the organisation. We encourage all members to attend, to understand and have their say.
There are still a few spots available for the DFA Next generation programme being held in Waikato and Bay of Plenty on the 6th and 7th of August. More details follow in this issue of stagline, however this should be another great event.
Finally congratulations to the Roberts family on taking out the Gordon Stephenson Trophy and becoming the 2026 National Ambassadors for Sustainable Farming and Growing. It’s fantastic to have such great ambassadors for our small industry.
