Aug 14, 2026
Noticeboard & Events | Issue 223
NZDFA Subscriptions for 2026/27
Thanks to all NZDFA members who have renewed their membership for 2026/27. Reminder notices will be sent out this month.
The NZDFA relies on this subscription to function effectively while continuing to deliver a strong, independent view for the producer at all levels of industry engagement. The NZDFA extends thanks to all those who have shown support through the past year.
Preparing for dry conditions as El Niño risk grows
With New Zealand Earth Sciences continuing to signal an increased likelihood of El Niño conditions developing over the coming season, farmers are being encouraged to keep planning ahead for the potential impacts of a drier summer and autumn, particularly in eastern regions of the country. Preparing early can help minimise pressure on feed supplies, water availability and stock performance if conditions become prolonged.
To support on-farm planning, MPI’s On Farm Support team has now released its practical checklist for preparing for dry conditions. Following last month’s focus on wet weather readiness, this latest resource provides farmers with a useful guide to reviewing feed budgets, water infrastructure, contingency plans and animal management decisions, helping build resilience and reduce risk as seasonal conditions evolve.
Farm checklist – Preparing for dry weather >>
If you missed it last month, the On Farm Support team has also released a checklist for prolonged wet weather, most likely to affect western and southern regions.
Farm checklist – Preparing for prolonged wet weather >>
You can also check out the relevant Deer Facts fact sheet below:
Deer Facts – Drought feeding and management >>
DINZ Foot and Mouth Disease Podcast
Listen to the podcast here: Deer Country podcasts - Deer NZ
Foot and mouth disease (FMD) remains one of the most significant biosecurity threats facing New Zealand's livestock industries. In Episode 3 of the Deer Country Podcast, DINZ Chief Executive Rhys Griffiths and Policy and Research Manager Emil Murphy unpack what the deer industry and wider primary industries are doing to prepare, the role of the Foot and Mouth Disease Operational Agreement (OA) between industry and government, and why readiness matters for every farmer.
The discussion explores the planning, surveillance and response work already underway, as well as the lessons New Zealand can learn from FMD outbreaks overseas. From understanding how the FMD OA helps shape decision-making during a biosecurity response to the practical actions farmers can take to support preparedness, this episode provides a timely and informative look at one of the biggest threats facing the primary sector. Whether you're a deer farmer or simply interested in New Zealand's biosecurity future, this is an episode well worth listening to.
Listen to the podcast here: Deer Country podcasts - Deer NZ
Industry Advisory to Livestock Farmers, Meat Processors, Stock Agents and Livestock Transport Operators
Livestock Transit Insurance, Carrier Liability and Ownership During Transit
The continued rise in livestock values has significantly increased the financial exposure associated with the transportation of cattle, sheep, deer and other livestock throughout New Zealand.
Livestock owners, stock and station agencies, meat processors and transport customers are encouraged to review the level of protection available when engaging livestock transport operators. While many transport operators carry liability insurance, that insurance is subject to limited liability provisions and may not provide compensation equal to the full market value of the livestock.
A key feature of limited liability is that it is generally based on the value of each individual animal rather than the value of the entire consignment. For example, a carrier's maximum liability is $2,000 per animal, the carrier's liability for a beast valued at $3,800 will be limited to $2,000, leaving the owner to absorb the remaining $1,800 loss unless separate insurance arrangements are in place.
With breeding cattle, dairy cattle, stud livestock and other premium livestock frequently exceeding these values, the potential uninsured exposure can be significant.
Depending on the terms of sale or supply agreement, ownership may remain with the consignor (seller) until delivery, or it may pass to the consignee (purchaser or receiving processor) before or during transit. Unless ownership and the transfer of risk are clearly documented, uncertainty can arise following a transport incident, making it difficult to determine who bears the financial loss and who is entitled to make an insurance claim.
To minimise the risk of disputes and uninsured losses, all parties should ensure that:
- The legal owner of the livestock during transit is clearly identified.
- Consignment documentation accurately records both the consignor and the consignee.
- The point at which ownership and risk transfer occurs is clearly documented and understood by all parties.
- Any limitations on the carrier's liability are understood before transport is undertaken.
- Additional livestock transit insurance is arranged where the value of any animal or consignment exceeds the carrier's liability limits ($2,000).
- Farmers, livestock agents, meat processors, transport operators and insurance advisers regularly review their insurance arrangements to ensure they reflect the current livestock values.
As livestock prices continue to increase, insurance arrangements that were adequate several years ago may no longer provide sufficient financial protection. Understanding who owns the livestock during transit, the extent of a carrier's limited liability, and whether additional insurance is required are essential steps in managing commercial risk.
Industry organisations are encouraged to distribute this advisory to their members to promote greater awareness of livestock transit risk, ownership responsibilities, and the importance of ensuring insurance arrangements adequately reflect today's livestock values.
Derek Foley
Chair – National Livestock Transport & Safety Council (NLT&SC)
Mobile: 027570 8470
Email: chair@nltsc.nz
Looking for work
I'm a passionate farmer (5+ years) and hunter (3 years). I'm currently looking for seasonal work in the deer industry between October and December/January.
I was wondering if you would be able to establish some contacts between me and farms that seek employees.
Thank you in advance.
Warmly, Lieselotte lotte.bv@outlook.de
Jokes
- Why can't dinosaurs clap their hands? Because they're extinct.
- I gave my handyman a to-do list, but he only did jobs 1, 3, and 5. Turns out he only does odd jobs.
- My wife always complains that I have no sense of direction. So I packed up my stuff and right.
Elk Wapiti online auction
Young deer farmers competition
Raincliff station field day
