Federated Farmers Podcast cover art

Federated Farmers Podcast

Federated Farmers Podcast

Written by: Federated Farmers of NZ
Listen for free

The Federated Farmers Podcast is your weekly guide to the issues affecting rural New Zealand. Join us as we unpack the policies, challenges and big ideas shaping life on farm. With frank conversations from farmers, advocates and experts, we break down what matters and why, so you can stay informed, prepared and heard.

Hosted by Ben Chapman-Smith, Federated Farmers' communications manager, who grew up on a sheep and beef farm in Te Akau on Waikato's west coast.

© 2026 Federated Farmers Podcast
Economics
Episodes
  • How to avoid getting burned by solar | EP 90
    Jun 1 2026

    How do you separate solar facts from sales hype? Mike Casey from Rewiring Aotearoa joins us to discuss not only the significant opportunities solar energy presents for farmers, but also how to make sure you're getting the right system.

    With more farmers exploring solar to reduce power costs, improve on-farm resilience and gain greater control over rising electricity prices, Mike explains why careful research is essential before signing a contract. He shares the warning signs of a poor deal, the sales pitches that should raise questions, and the common mistakes farmers make when choosing a solar system or finance package.

    Mike also walks us through what a good solar proposal should include, how to compare offers, and the key questions to ask before making a decision.

    Useful links

    Rewiring Aotearoa's Electric Farms Report

    Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

    Show More Show Less
    53 mins
  • Kerry Harmer’s fight for consent while winning awards | EP 89
    May 25 2026

    Kerry Harmer and her husband Paul have recently won top environmental awards for their high-country stewardship work, while simultaneously fighting a $150,000 (so far) battle for consent to keep farming.

    In this episode, the new Mid Canterbury Federated Farmers president talks about the brutal irony of being recognised for environmental leadership while being told they’re not doing enough.

    She shares the reality of the Harmers’ costly consent battle, the emotional toll of public scrutiny, and why she believes New Zealand’s consenting system is failing good farmers.

    Kerry also reflects on her career in farming, life at Castle Ridge Station, high-country resilience, and the leadership she wants to bring to Federated Farmers.

    Link:
    Farmers Weekly article about the Harmers


    Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

    Show More Show Less
    44 mins
  • Neat Meat’s Simon Eriksen doesn’t mince his words | EP 88
    May 18 2026

    Neat Meat founder Simon Eriksen reflects on 25 years of building one of New Zealand’s best-known premium meat businesses, from running deliveries out of a 1986 Subaru Legacy to supplying supermarkets, restaurants and My Food Bag.

    Simon shares how Neat Meat challenged the traditional meat supply chain, why he launched the SpeckleBeef programme, and what he’s learned from decades of backing himself in business through highs and lows.

    We also discuss the future of red meat, pressure on rural communities, the spread of carbon forestry, whether Kiwis are being priced out of quality beef and lamb, and what Simon believes needs to change to keep farming viable for the next generation.

    Useful links
    www.neatmeat.com

    Got a podcast idea for us? Let us know, and give us your feedback on this episode.

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 1 min
adbl_web_anon_alc_button_suppression_t1
No reviews yet