| 25 Peter Anich impressed by the youth Peter brings a wealth of experience to his Federated Farmers role. Karen Phelps Peter Anich, the newly appointed Auckland Meat and Wool Chair for Federated Farmers, recently returned from the 2024 Primary Industries New Zealand (PINZ) Summit and Federated Farmers Annual General Meeting in Wellington. The event, which brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts, covered a wide range of topics crucial to the future of New Zealand’s agricultural sector. Peter admits to feeling some initial scepticism from other attendees. “They look a bit sideways at you when you represent the Auckland province as they don’t think of it as a farming area,” he says with a smile. “This year I was pleasantly surprised by the demographics of the conference. What surprised me was how young most of the delegates were and how passionate they were.” The conference covered an intense array of subjects each day, including panel discussions on controversial topics such as genetic modification and live animal exports. “We explored both the advantages and pitfalls of GM and how it could be applied to New Zealand agriculture. Animal welfare concerns were at the forefront of the live export discussions.” A significant portion of the conference was dedicated to international trade opportunities including a panel discussion with the Indian ambassador, which explored the scope and potential for meat, wool, and dairy exports to India. The event also provided unique networking opportunities including a sit-down breakfast with the head of the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and four department heads, which Peter says “morphed into a question and answer session.” One of the key takeaways for Anich was the industry’s focus on the next generation. “The Federated Farmers delegates from the provinces were very enthusiastic about the industry and wanting to engage with the next generation of farmers to see how they can be helped to progress through the system,” he says. Peter brings a wealth of experience to his Federated Farmers role, having worked in various aspects of farming throughout his career. Currently operating a 265-hectare property at Kaipara Hills, with an additional 112 hectares leased, Anich specialises in Angus cattle breeding. His choice of Angus cattle is driven by both practical and economic factors. “It was the easy calving that drew me to Angus,” he says. “We don’t have to check them and calve behind a wire. RURAL PEOPLE » Peter Anich They are a hardy breed and have the ability to thrive in challenging environments.” The economic benefits of Angus cattle are significant for his operation. “The AngusPure brand has done a great job of raising the profile in general of Angus which has had a flow-on effect to all Angus farmers. There’s always a good market for them in the store market. The processors pay a premium over and above the printed schedule price for Angus.” Looking to the future, Anich will continue focusing on environmental stewardship. “We plan to keep working on the environmental side – fencing off waterways and planting natives each year.” However, recent cyclones have posed challenges, causing significant damage to his property. Anich estimates it will be summer 2025 before everything is fully restored. STOKMAN ANGUS A practical, predictable and profitable program. Next Sale Yearling Bull & Heifer Sale Wednesday 18 September at 1pm Auction to be held on farm, 1708 Te Kopia Road, Rotorua. 07 333 2446 | www.stokmanangus.com | mtkiwi@farmside.co.nz Jake Stokman 027 787 4008 Mark Stokman 027 640 4028
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