News in brief

NZ velvet for Chinese medicine
Dong’e Ejiao (DEEJ), a leading producer of donkey-hide gelatin in traditional Chinese medicine, visited New Zealand in December to explore the potential of New Zealand velvet for new products. DINZ CEO Rhys Griffiths highlighted the opportunity to work with one of China’s largest traditional Chinese medicine, companies. The delegation toured local farms and a velvet processor, impressed by the quality and farming practices. This visit follows recent agreements between DINZ and Beijing Tong Ren Tang (China’s oldest traditional Chinese medicine company) aiming to expand velvet exports to China, building on the success in the Korean market.

Chilled beef approval
Alliance plants in Mataura, Gore and Levin, Manawatū-Whanganui, have recently been approved to process chilled beef for China. Alliance stated that: This is not only an excellent outcome for the important China market, but it also strengthens our global options. Our first load of chilled beef from our Levin plant cleared the port in China at the start of January and a shipment from Mataura is expected to arrive mid-January.

Finding new ways to control the bronze beetle
New Zealand Apples and Pears Incorporated -NZAPI- has begun a five-year project to find new and more effective ways to control bronze beetles after successfully securing additional funding from MPI.  The bronze beetle can impact plant health and fruit production. The project will develop and trial new biocontrol products and develop a trap that we can use to monitor its presence in the orchard. It will also test biopesticides that are available in New Zealand and internationally that could be applied to the soil or tree, as well as the use of endophyte grasses that might affect bronze beetle larvae. Bronze beetle costs organic growers more than $13,000/ha per year. The project is backed by $888,630 of funding from the Ministry for Primary Industries Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund, with NZAPI investing $598,370.

Wool Source secures first international deal
Kiwi company Wool Source has secured its first international deal for its wool-based keratin protein, used in personal care products. The biodegradable pigment and particles, developed from deconstructed wool, have applications in cosmetics, shampoos, and dyes. CEO Tom Hooper confirmed the deal with a “sizeable” customer after three years of collaboration. Wool Source is also working with other clients in Europe, North America, and Asia, aiming to scale up production. Founded in 2021, Wool Source focuses on creating renewable, biodegradable, and ethically sourced products for industries like cosmetics and luxury goods.

A celebration of tradition and community
‘It’s still a great traditional rural show,’ is how Justin Morrison, Rai Valley A&P Show President, describes the event. “We have unique competitions like the one for the vehicle with the most kilometres travelled, the really young farmers competition, the giant pumpkin competition, and the ever-popular Rai Challenge, which includes a physical obstacle course and other rural challenges,” Justin says. This year marks a special milestone, with Sturgeons Amusements celebrating their 80th year at the event. “Sturgeons started eighty years ago with eight shows across the top of the South, with the Rai Valley being one of the original locations,” Justin explains. “For the past eight decades, they’ve set up and been ready for show morning, no matter the weather—even when it wasn’t ideal. Their ongoing support has had a huge impact, helping to make the Rai Valley show a well-loved attraction.” The show draws a crowd of around 3,000 people. “It’s a big show for such a small area, and it wouldn’t be possible without the support of our volunteers’ exhibitors, sponsors and participants. The entire event relies on them,” says Justin. “We carry on, rain or shine. Come congratulate Sturgeon on their 80th – we’d love to see you at the show!”
Rai Valley A & P Show, 9am 1st March, 52 Opouri Road.