Business and Dairy – Fonterra farmers approve consumer sale with strong support

October 30, 2025

Source: Fonterra

Fonterra’s farmer shareholders have given the go ahead for the Co-operative to sell its global Consumer and associated businesses, Mainland Group, to Lactalis for $4.22 billion, with 88.47% of the total farmer votes cast in support of the divestment.

The final votes on the divestment were cast at a virtual Special Meeting held this morning.

Chairman Peter McBride says the Board and management team were encouraged by the level of engagement from farmer shareholders in the lead up to the vote.

“We’ve been pleased to see so many farmers joining in the discussions since the start of this process in May last year when we first announced the decision to explore divestment options, and especially over the past month or so when the full details have been available,” says Mr McBride.

“It helps to demonstrate one of the key things that sets us apart from most other processors – our farmers have a direct say in the future of their Co-operative, and they’ve made the most of that opportunity.

“We’re pleased to have received a strong mandate, with 88.47% of the total farmer votes cast in support of the recommendation and 80.59% participation based on milk solids voted. We want to thank all farmer shareholders who voted.”

Mr McBride says the decision to divest the Mainland Group businesses is significant and one the Board did not take lightly.

“We have examined the strategic context we operate in, our strengths and how as a Co-op we create value for our farmer owners.

“The divestment will usher in an exciting new phase for the Co-op. We will be able to focus Fonterra’s energy and efforts on where we do our best work. We will have a simplified and more focused business, the value of which cannot be overstated,” says Mr McBride.

The threshold required to approve the sale was for more than 50% of the votes from those entitled to vote (based on share-backed kgMS) and who actually voted to be in favour of the proposal.

Completion of the divestment remains subject to securing certain regulatory approvals and the separation of Mainland Group business from Fonterra, both of which are well underway.

Subject to these steps being completed, Fonterra expects the transaction to complete in the first half of the 2026 calendar year.

Fonterra is targeting a tax-free capital return of $2 per share to shareholders and unit holders, equivalent to $3.2 billion, once the sale is complete.

Another shareholder vote will be required for the payment of the capital return. The process for that capital return is expected to be by way of a scheme of arrangement under Part 15 of the Companies Act 1993.

The Co-op plans to provide more detail on the timing and process for the capital return in early December.

About Fonterra  

Fonterra is a co-operative owned and supplied by thousands of farming families across Aotearoa New Zealand. Through the spirit of co-operation and a can-do attitude, Fonterra’s farmers and employees share the goodness of our milk through innovative consumer, foodservice and ingredients brands. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re committed to leaving things in a better way than we found them. We are passionate about supporting our communities by Doing Good Together.  

MIL OSI

Culvert replacement work on SH3 in north Taranaki kicks off next month

LiveNews Publisher

October 30, 2025

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Two ageing culverts, on State Highway 3 in north Taranaki will be replaced this summer, with significant work planned for mid-January.

These culvert replacements, Mangapepeke No. 1 and Mangapepeke No. 2 culverts, are among a raft of priority bridge projects being delivered across the country in the coming years. The replacement of ageing bridges and culverts with new modern structures like this ensure our state highway network remains resilient, reliable, and efficient for road users for years to come.

The work is expected to take around 5 months, starting with enabling works in late November. The most significant excavation is planned for January 2026, when the weather is warmer.

As a result, a stretch of State Highway 3 near Ahititi will be closing for 5 days in mid-January.

The road, between Okau Road in Ahititi and the Uruti Community Hall will fully close for 5 days, from 12.01am Friday 16 January to 11.59pm Tuesday 20 to allow for the work to take place.

The closure is needed, for the safety of all road users and workers, while crews carry out 24/7 work using large machinery, including excavators and a crane that will be positioned on the road.

The combination of deep open trenches, heavy machinery and space requirements means it is not safe or practical for road users to access the site while the culverts are replaced.

A full closure with day and night works allows crews to complete the deep excavation work as efficiently and safely as possible.

During the closure, crews will work 24/7 to fully replace the Mangapepeke No.1 culvert and install a temporary Bailey bridge at the Mangapepeke No.2 culvert site. This temporary single-lane bridge will allow traffic to keep moving while further construction works take place.

“The two culverts on SH3 near Ahititi are almost a kilometre apart. By the end of the closure period, people will see a fully replaced No. 1 culvert and bulk excavation completed with a single Bailey bridge temporarily installed at the No. 2 culvert,” says Project Manager Kendra Ludeke.

“We know just how crucial SH3 is for connecting Taranaki to Waikato. Almost 3,000 vehicles typically travel SH3 every day and one fifth of them are heavy vehicles- mainly freight.

“We do not take the decision to close lightly and we have explored ways to minimise the disruption of this work. We know the community will be impacted. The culverts need to be replaced while the weather is warmer and drier and we’re keeping clear of the Christmas and immediate new year break, while also making sure we’re staying clear of the school term,” says Ms Ludeke.

We expect temporary traffic management to be in place at Urenui and Piopio to help direct freight and general road users during the closure. Access for residents and holiday travel will be maintained by crews on site, however no vehicles will be able to pass through the culvert worksites during the 5-day closure.

“Unlike previous SH3 closures, we are not able to offer scheduled opening times during the 5-day road closure to let traffic through, due to the extent of the excavation work required – the hole left by one of the removed culverts is expected to be about 8-metres deep and the length of a netball court.

“We know the last fortnight has been disruptive for the local community, following the heavy rainfall. And we know this closure in January will add to the disruption – however it is necessary.”

The work is weather dependent and the contingency dates for this work are Friday 23 January – Tuesday 27 January 2026.

We are communicating the January closure dates well in advance so people can plan ahead.

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Major milestone reached on Mt Messenger Bypass: tunnel breakthrough achieved

LiveNews Publisher

October 30, 2025

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Te Ara o Te Ata – Mt Messenger Bypass has reached a significant milestone this week with the successful breakthrough of the project’s 235-metre tunnel – a key feature of the future State Highway 3 route in North Taranaki.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi Regional Manager of Infrastructure Delivery, Rob Partridge says the breakthrough of the tunnel’s top section is a proud moment for everyone involved in the project.

“It is a visible sign of the progress being made to deliver a safer and more efficient route for all road users, and to unlock long-term economic and environmental benefits for the region.

“The need for a more resilient and reliable route over Mt Messenger was underlined recently when heavy rain created an underslip that caused delays for road users for more than 3 months.

“This achievement marks a major step forward for the southern section of the Bypass, which will replace the steep, narrow and winding stretch of SH3 over Mt Messenger with a safer, more resilient, and reliable 6km two-lane highway.”

The Bypass is being delivered by the Mt Messenger Alliance in partnership with mana whenua Ngāti Tama.

The project is being delivered in two stages – the ‘southern’ and ‘northern’ sections. Since construction began on the southern section in 2022, more than 300,000 cubic metres of earthworks have been completed, with the southern-most 1km section now at road level.

With the 6.5m high upper section of the tunnel now completed, excavation of the tunnel’s 2.5m lower section will begin, with full tunnel excavation targeted for completion in late February 2026.

Work is also progressing on the project’s 125m bridge, with a 110 metre temporary staging bridge in place to support construction of the permanent structure. Construction of the bridge’s foundations are underway.

Completing the northern section of the project remains subject to ongoing legal challenges regarding the final parcel of land required. Funding and timeframes for the northern section will be confirmed once construction is able to start in this area.

“This tunnel breakthrough is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Mt Messenger Alliance team delivering the project,” says Mr Partridge.

“We’re excited to continue the momentum and deliver a safer, more resilient and reliable SH3 for Taranaki and beyond.”

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Transmission Gully summer maintenance work getting underway

LiveNews Publisher

October 30, 2025

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

A busy season of road resurfacing and drainage improvements for one of Wellington’s most critical transport links is set to kick off.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) Regional Manager Lower North Island/Top of the South Mark Owen says drivers can expect to see roadworks underway on the Transmission Gully motorway from next week through until mid-February 2026.

“We have an extensive programme of works planned from Kenepuru right through to Mackays Crossing Interchange. Work crews will be at multiple sites in the upcoming months.

“Every year NZTA undertakes a large road renewal programme to maintain and improve state highways across the country. This year that includes a significant amount of resurfacing and drainage work on Transmission Gully.”

Mr Owen says the work will start on Tuesday 4 November and be ongoing through until mid-February next year, weather permitting.

“Drivers will need to plan ahead and factor in extra time for their journeys, as this work will require lane closures, road closures and speed restrictions to allow contractors to complete the work safely and as quickly as possible. When the motorway is closed there will be detours in place via State Highway 59 and State Highway 58. We will let the public know in advance when these works and closures are planned.”

Drainage works will begin next week, with northbound night closures on Tuesday 4 November and Wednesday 5 November between 9pm and 4.30am. All northbound traffic will need to detour via State Highway 59 between Linden through to SH58. Traffic management will be set up from 8pm, so drivers can expect delays from then.

Detour route for northbound closure between Linden and SH58.

NZTA contractors will be making drainage improvements and rebuilding approximately 6km of the 27km highway this summer. This work is needed to repair areas of the road that have been significantly impacted by water seeping into the pavement.

Additionally, there will be approximately 18km of routine chip-sealing maintenance work undertaken over the summer. Chip-sealing will help to waterproof the road surface ahead of the winter months in 2026.

Mr Owen says the resurfacing works being undertaken this summer will also help to prepare the motorway for a proposed speed limit increase to 110km/h. NZTA is currently analysing consultation feedback alongside technical information and plans to submit this to the Director of Land Transport soon.

Mr Owen says NZTA appreciates that work over summer can be disruptive and frustrating for drivers.

“We’re working hard to prepare the road for the future, and this work needs to be done over spring and summer as it requires warmer, drier weather.”

Mr Owen says with all the work planned, drivers should be ready for roadworks and the travel delays they will cause.

“Plan ahead, know where the roadworks are happening, how substantial they are, and how they will affect you. That way you can make informed choices, like timing your trip to avoid major works or allowing extra time for your journey.”

Mr Owen also urges drivers to respect road workers and the speed limits in place at road work sites.

“The speed limits are there for a reason – to keep workers and drivers safe.”

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Construction is underway on SH1/Waitārere Beach Road roundabout

LiveNews Publisher

October 30, 2025

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Construction of a new roundabout at the intersection of State Highway 1 (SH1) and Waitārere Beach Road in Horowhenua is now underway.

This roundabout will improve safety and traffic flow at this well-used intersection, which provides access to the growing Waitārere Beach community.

“As traffic volumes grow and the region continues to develop, this roundabout will help ensure people can travel safely and efficiently through the area,” says Rob Partridge, Regional Manager of Infrastructure Delivery.

Traffic impact

From now until mid March next year, the intersection will largely be open to two lanes of traffic with a temporary speed limit in place.

Those two lanes of traffic may shift from time to time depending on construction, so please be aware of possible new road layouts, drive safely and adhere to temporary traffic management.

Work will take place during the day, Monday to Friday, until early December. From December through to mid-March, there will be a mix of day and night works.

We will communicate any upcoming changes to traffic management.

No work will happen over the Christmas/New Year period.

The roundabout is expected to be complete by late 2026. We will provide regular updates as construction progresses.

The roundabout benefit

Roundabouts reduce the risk of serious crashes. They lower the number of potential conflict points between vehicles, and if a collision does occur, the impact is generally less severe than at traditional intersections.

This roundabout is one of several safety improvements being delivered along SH1 between Levin and Foxton, ahead of the completion of the new Ōtaki to north of Levin highway (Ō2NL). These upgrades will support a safe transition between the new and existing highway environments.

“We’re focused on delivering practical, cost-effective improvements that make a real difference,” says Mr Partridge.

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Motu Move ready to go in Greater Christchurch

LiveNews Publisher

October 30, 2025

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Bus and ferry passengers in Greater Christchurch will soon be able to pay fares using credit or debit cards, phones or smart watches, with the National Ticketing Solution (NTS), known as Motu Move, starting in the region on Monday 10 November.

“We’re very pleased to confirm the start date for our first stage of rolling out Motu Move in Greater Christchurch. This follows a successful trial of the contactless payment system on the Route 29 bus from Christchurch Airport to the city,” says NTS Programme Director Roger Jones.

“Motu Move will bring new contactless ways to pay for public transport, making it easier for everyone to use public transport, including commuters, visitors to the city and casual users.”

With the launch of contactless payments on Metro bus and ferry services from 10 November, customers will be able to use their debit or credit card, phone or smart watch to pay for a standard adult non-concession fare, alongside existing Metrocard and cash payment options. This is the first stage of the Motu Move rollout in the region, with more customer features and ways to pay for public transport coming in 2026.

Concession holders should continue to pay as usual, until concession fares are added to Motu Move next year. Prepaid Motu Move cards will be available from mid-2026, replacing Metrocard.

“As we prepare for the full roll-out of Motu Move, we’ll be working closely with our customers to ensure those that need to choose a new way to pay are well supported and prepared,” says Giles Southwell, Environment Canterbury’s Director Corporate & Public Transport Services.

Motu Move is targeted to be operational throughout New Zealand by the end of 2027.

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Environment and Health – Greenpeace welcomes glyphosate ruling, urges NZ Food Safety to restart food safety testing

LiveNews Publisher

October 30, 2025

Source: Greenpeace

Greenpeace welcomes a decision by New Zealand Food Safety to maintain maximum glyphosate residue levels on wheat, oats and barley at their current level of 0.1mg/kg, but now calls on NZFS to restart its glyphosate testing programme.

The government had initially proposed increasing glyphosate residue levels by 100-times. But there was overwhelming opposition to the increase among the more than 3,100 submissions on the proposal.

Greenpeace Aotearoa Executive Director Dr Russel Norman says: “This is a great victory. People were totally opposed to the plan to increase glyphosate on wheat, oats and barley.

“However, we also note that NZFA stopped testing for glyphosate after it found residues in food well over the 0.1mg/kg level in 2015/16. We are seeking an assurance from NZFA that they will include glyphosate in their next round of food testing.

” We are also concerned that NZFA has taken no enforcement action in over a decade when it finds pesticides at levels above the legal maximum allowed in food. There is not much point having legal maximums if they are not enforced.”

Glyphosate is classified by the WHO as a probable carcinogen.

“New Zealanders can now eat their cereals and bread with the knowledge that glyphosate levels aren’t increasing and staying the same at 0.1 mg/kg.

“We are also pleased that NZFA has introduced a requirement that, where glyphosate is used on cereal crops, it can only be sprayed prior to the crops emerging, and may not be sprayed directly on crops destined for human consumption.

“A large body of scientific evidence has demonstrated harm to human health and the environment from glyphosate. Our long term goal is to reduce and, where possible, eliminate the use of agrichemicals. Any steps in this direction are welcome.

However, the decision to increase the levels of glyphosate on dried peas to 6 mg/kg is disappointing, says Dr Norman.

“Raising the glyphosate MRL on dried peas gives tacit approval for the increased and ongoing use of agrichemicals in the food system. Instead of making it easier to spray toxic chemicals on our food, the Government should be supporting farmers to transition to ecological farming that protects people and the planet.”

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Animal Safety – Two dogs dead in one day at Southland greyhound track

LiveNews Publisher

October 30, 2025

Source: SAFE For Animals

SAFE is calling on Greyhound Racing New Zealand (GRNZ) to begin winding down races immediately, following the deaths of two dogs at Ascot Park Raceway in Invercargill yesterday.

According to GRNZ Stewards’ Reports, both dogs suffered catastrophic spinal injuries that led to their deaths.

Homebush Jelly was found dead at the lure after suffering a suspected fractured neck and severed spinal cord. Moments later, Queen of Shadows sustained a suspected spinal fracture at the lure and was euthanised due to the severity of her injuries.

SAFE Campaign Manager Emma Brodie said the deaths were shocking, but tragically predictable.

“Two dogs dying from broken spines on the same day is horrifying,” said Brodie.

“This tragedy underscores why the Bill to ban greyhound racing is so vital. The Government has taken a historic step by introducing it, but dogs are still dying while the industry clings on in desperation.”

Recent media statements from GRNZ have claimed a “dramatic drop” in injuries. SAFE says those claims are misleading and ignore the ongoing reality of catastrophic injuries and deaths on the track.

“We’re calling on Greyhound Racing New Zealand to accept the inevitable and begin winding down now,” said Brodie.

“The industry should focus on rehoming dogs ahead of closure by August 2026 – not wasting resources on PR spin while dogs continue to be killed.”

SAFE has written to Racing Minister Winston Peters to inform him of the latest deaths and request an update on the timeline for the Racing Industry (Closure of Greyhound Racing Industry) Amendment Bill, including when public submissions will open.

“We’re looking forward to participating in the parliamentary process and seeing an end to this industry by August 2026,” said Brodie.

“Every dog who dies between now and then is one too many.”

SAFE is Aotearoa’s leading animal rights organisation.

We’re creating a future that ensures the rights of animals are respected. Our core work empowers society to make kinder choices for ourselves, animals and our planet.

The Racing Industry (Closure of Greyhound Racing Industry) Amendment Bill was introduced to Parliament on 13 October 2025. The Bill amends the Racing Industry Act 2020 to close commercial greyhound racing in New Zealand from 1 August 2026.

Since the Government’s announcement on 10 December 2024 that commercial greyhound racing would end, the industry has recorded a total of 626 injuries, including 91 fractures and 17 deaths. In the current 2025/26 racing season (which began on 1 August 2025), there have already been 165 injuries, 18 fractures, and 5 deaths.

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Fire Safety – Pause and Plan before Burning Storm Debris

LiveNews Publisher

October 30, 2025

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

As the clean-up from last week’s storm continues, Fire and Emergency is asking farmers and lifestyle block owners in Otago and Southland to pause and plan before starting to burn debris.

Otago District Manager Craig Geddes says people might be tempted to push fallen branches, broken fence posts and other debris into piles near where they fell and set them alight, but he says a more deliberate approach will be much safer and effective and will prevent fires from getting out of control.

“The last thing anyone needs now is for their fire to escape and cause more damage to their own property or the neighbours.”

He adds that many firefighters are also trying to clear and repair the damage on their own properties after the storm. “They too will appreciate people being extra careful to avoid causing unwanted fires at this time.”

Southland District Manager Julian Tohiariki says it’s understandable that people are keen to clear their properties. “We’d like to remind everyone to be cautious and make sure their burn piles are a manageable size and extinguished properly so they don’t reignite and get out of hand, given that we are in our windy season.”

There is extensive guidance about burning on www.checkitsalright.nz including a simple “can I light a fire” tool.

Tips include:

– Place the burn pile on the lee side (sheltered side) at least 30 metres away from trees, hedges, sheds or other structures, and avoid powerlines.

– Create a five-metre wide fire break to stop a creeping ground fire

– Let the material dry out. Newly fallen branches and other green material will not burn cleanly, creating more smoke.

– Before burning, always go to www.checkitsalright.nz to check that it is safe to burn and see any restrictions for your location, including if you need a fire permit.

People should also check their local council’s restrictions on outdoor burning and be mindful of their regional council air quality rules.

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Minister to attend ASEAN Defence meeting

LiveNews Publisher

October 30, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

Defence Minister Judith Collins will today travel to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus).

“In times of increasing international tension, face-to-face talks are more important than ever,” Ms Collins says.

“I am looking forward to meeting with counterparts to discuss complex defence and security issues, sharing New Zealand’s perspective and deepening existing relationships.”

This year marks the 50th anniversary of New Zealand’s dialogue relations with ASEAN, as well as the 15th anniversary of the first ADMM-Plus meeting in Hanoi, Vietnam. The forum is an opportunity to engage on regional security issues and strengthen defence cooperation in the Indo-Pacific with the goal of upholding peace, stability and prosperity.

In addition to attending ADMM-Plus, the Minister will hold a number of bilateral meetings with Defence counterparts.

“As a small trading nation, we rely on the international rules-based order, underpinned by collective security and open trading relations,” Ms Collins says.

“That is why we are investing in our national security and economic prosperity while pulling our weight on the world stage.”

Ms Collins will return to New Zealand on 3 November.

Note to editors:

ASEAN comprises 11 Southeast Asian countries: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Viet Nam.
ASEAN Dialogue Partners are: Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Russia and the United States.

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