Coast & Country rural news & lifestyle


'I loved it': Veteran truckie reflects on 30 years on the road
“Seventy hours a week on the chipliner. If you enjoy it, it’s not work.”

'Prime focus': Avocado industry targets global markets
NZ Avocado plans to diversify export markets, focusing on North America and Asia.

‘Serious concerns’: Neighbours wary of drone spraying near homes
Neighbours questioned a drone weed-spraying operation in Bethlehem.

A-maize-ing: Young photographer puts farming life in frame
Lucy Penellum's photos highlight the resilience of the farming community.

‘Strong sense of confidence’: Kiwifruit industry eyes record harvest
The kiwifruit industry picked up last year and things are looking good for 2025.

‘Really lucky’: Farmers grateful for training programme
Growing Future Farmers is a training programme aimed at increasing industry skills.

Once-a-day milking a winning choice for King Country couple
OAD milking move made in the 2023-24 season as costs were getting 'out of control'.

'Came from left field': Racing ban shocks greyhound trainers
The greyhound industry reacts to the proposed racing ban.

Waikato farmer cautiously optimistic about visa rule changes
“It’s not a game-changer, but is going in the right direction."

Rural community still cherishes their hall
The Hunga Hunga Hall has been part of the Waikato rural community since 1954.
More from The Country

Walnut growers get cracking at harvest time
The walnut orchard in Lincoln spans 16 hectares and grows Rex and Meyric varieties.

Crash in ATV on remote property kills 10-year-old boy and critically injures father
The boy’s brother and a friend also suffered serious and minor injuries.

Anzco Foods posts $8m profit amid 'another challenging year' for red meat
Profit was down from $44.4m last year.
More from Rural Life

Walnut growers get cracking at harvest time
The walnut orchard in Lincoln spans 16 hectares and grows Rex and Meyric varieties.

Meet the woman who peels 20kg of horseradish a day
Mandy Steel peels 20kg of horseradish by hand, four days a week.

Vege tips: Sharing my kūmara secrets for winter
Opinion: Want to know the sure sign your kūmara are ready to be harvested? Read on.
More from SunLive and The Weekend Sun

'All good': Tauranga flights resume after volcanic disruptions
Flights have resumed at Tauranga Airport after ash cloud caused closure on Sunday.

Battle of the Bridge: Who took the honours?
Barry Leabourn's report on week seven of the BOPRU senior club rugby season on Saturday.

Ash cloud from Whakaari/White Island cancels flights
Flights from Auckland and Wellington were among those cancelled.