The Country
Jamie Mackay delivers your daily fix of everything going on in NZ's biggest industry, along with a generous side-serve of news, sports and politics. The Country from Newstalk ZB, iHeartCountry NZ, Hokonui & iHeartRadio.
Episodes
The Country Full Show: Monday, July 13, 2026
Jamie Mackay talks to Richard Allen, Dr Jacqueline Rowarth, Andrew Hoggard, Grant McCallum, Dave Martin, and Phil Duncan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 13/07/26: Richard Allen talks to Jamie Mackay
Fonterra’s chief executive says the co-operative has cut 50c from its forecast farmgate milk price as it battles “softer-than-expected” demand and strong global supply.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 13/07/26: Dr Jacqueline Rowarth talks to Jamie Mackay
We catch up with a leading farming academic to discuss the Greens’ proposal to phase out nitrogen fertiliser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 13/07/26: Andrew Hoggard and Grant McCallum talk to Jamie Mackay
Today’s farmer-politician panel ponders Modi’s visit, the India FTA and Winston’s concerns over the $20 billion “cover-up”, the Greens’ Ag and fertiliser policy, Blueberry-gate, and why rugby is a young man’s game!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 13/07/26: Dave Martin talks to Jamie Mackay
A Wairoa farmer gives an update on yet more devastating flooding on the East Coast. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 13/07/26: Phil Duncan talks to Jamie Mackay
Monday’s resident weather expert promises a better week ahead, after the appalling rain of recent weeks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rabobank Best of The Country: July 11, 2026
Hamish McKay talks to David Seymour, Tom Slee, Ben Picton, Dr Robyn Dynes, and Harry Newey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country Full Show: Thursday, July 9, 2026
Hamish McKay talks to Chris Brandolino, Ben Picton, Dr Robyn Dynes, Aaron Cruden, Matt Lythe, and Matt Dillon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 09/07/26: Chris Brandolino talks to Hamish McKay
We get a weather update from Earth Science New Zealand’s principal scientist, including severe weather affecting Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti. Plus, Canterbury’s flooding, a shift towards more settled weather, and what a developing El Niño could mean for spring.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 09/07/26: Ben Picton talks to Hamish McKay
Rabobank’s Sydney-based senior strategist, global economics and markets, on the Reserve Bank’s OCR hike and its implications for inflation, interest rates and economic growth. Picton also discusses renewed Middle East tensions, rising oil prices and the outlook for further rate increases.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 09/07/26: Dr Robyn Dynes talks to Hamish McKay
Principal scientist and farmer engagement specialist at the Bioeconomy Science Institute on the science underpinning agricultural innovation. She also discusses the value of endophyte research, responsible nitrogen use and how AI and big data could transform farming decisions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 09/07/26: Aaron Cruden talks to Hamish McKay
Time for some footy chat with a former All Black, including Ruben Love’s impressive test debut and the growing combinations in the All Blacks backline. Also, Dave Rennie’s early influence, selection options against Italy, and expectations for the second test in Wellington.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 09/07/26: Matt Lythe talks to Hamish McKay
It’s Innovation Week thanks to Herd-i. Today, we catch up with the managing director of Prism Earth on using AI, satellite imagery and geospatial data to measure natural capital on farms. Plus, unlocking carbon, biodiversity and market access opportunities for farmers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 09/07/26: Mark Dillon talks to Hamish McKay
This farmer and five-time New Zealand ploughing champion is meant to be representing New Zealand in Europe, but his ploughing gear is on the wrong ship in the wrong hemisphere.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country Full Show: Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Hamish McKay talks to Christopher Luxon, Adam McManaway, Emma Higgins, and Brian Dela Rue.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 08/07/26: Christopher Luxon talks to Hamish McKay
The Prime Minister discusses Marsden Point fuel security, South Island flood recovery and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit. He also rejects calls to phase out synthetic fertiliser and backs televising the Young Farmer of the Year contest.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 08/07/26: Adam McManaway talks to Hamish McKay
A Kaikōura dairy farm owner discusses the damage to his property after severe flooding, the clean-up challenge, lost pasture and infrastructure, and support from the local farming community.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 08/07/26: Emma Higgins talks to Hamish McKay
Rabobank senior agricultural analyst discusses the sharp fall in Global Dairy Trade prices and what it says about global milk supply. Plus, European heatwave impacts, New Zealand's record milk production and outlook for dairy farm margins.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 08/07/26: Brian Dela Rue talks to Hamish McKay
It’s Innovation Week, thanks to Herd-i. Today, we talk to a DairyNZ research engineer who discusses how farmers are using AI to improve decision-making, productivity and administration.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country Full Show: Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Hamish McKay talks to Bex Green, Scott Spooner, Nathan Guy, Shane McManaway, Chris Russell, and Pete Barnes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 07/07/26: Bex Green talks to Hamish McKay
Federated Farmers North Canterbury president and vice dairy chair on the challenging weather conditions in her region. Plus, the Greens’ plan to phase out synthetic nitrogen, and what it means to win the Federated Farmers advocacy award.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 07/07/26: Scott Spooner talks to Hamish McKay
It’s Innovation Week, thanks to Herd-i. Today, we talk with the chief executive and chief technology officer of South Canterbury drone-maker SPS Automation about targeting invasive plants on-farm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 07/07/26: Nathan Guy talks to Hamish McKay
New Zealand’s special agricultural trade envoy says efforts to expand the country’s trade links are good news for exporters.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 07/07/26: Shane McManaway talks to Hamish McKay
A South Wairarapa farmer updates us on the weather conditions at his son’s farm in Kaikōura, as severe rain causes flooding across the district.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 07/07/26: Chris Russell talks to Hamish McKay
Our Aussie correspondent on exporting beef to Korea, a buoyant horticulture sector, and China’s missile test in the South Pacific. Plus, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s inappropriate comments on Kylie Minogue.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 07/07/26: Pete Barnes talks to Hamish McKay
We take our monthly look at the livestock market with PGG Wrightson Area Livestock Manager for Marlborough and Tasman, who discusses heavy rain, changes in the wine sector, and a strong bull sale season in the region.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country Full Show: Monday, July 6, 2026
Hamish McKay talks to David Seymour, Tom Slee, Harry Newey, and Phil Duncan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 06/07/26: David Seymour talks to Hamish McKay
The Deputy Prime Minister on the importance of trade deals for New Zealand. Plus, would Act work with The Opportunity Party, and what happened with school lunches? And his plan to streamline government by reducing the number of ministers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 06/07/26: Tom Slee talks to Hamish McKay
We catch up with a 29-year-old dairy farmer from the deep South, aka the 2026 FMG Young Farmer of the Year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 06/07/26: Harry Newey talks to Hamish McKay
It’s Innovation Week, thanks to Herd-i. Today, we chat with the co-founder of PostMate, the winner of the 2026 Fieldays Innovation Awards People's Choice Award.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 06/07/26: Phil Duncan talks to Hamish McKay
Our man from WeatherWatch.co.nz explains why the lower South Island is so wet and whether the rain is heading north.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rabobank Best of The Country: July 4, 2026
Hamish McKay talks to Christopher Luxon, Stu Duncan, Stu Loe, Lawrence Field, Chris Russell, and Nick Carr.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country Full Show: Friday, July 3, 2026
Hamish McKay talks to AJ Whetton, Chris Brandolino, Sarah Donaldson, Tim Dangen, and Rowena Duncum.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 03/07/26: AJ Whetton talks to Hamish McKay
A former All Black discusses the dawn of a new era for the All Blacks ahead of tomorrow's test against France, featuring a new coach, captain, first five-eighth and stadium.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 03/07/26: Chris Brandolino talks to Hamish McKay
Earth Sciences New Zealand principal scientist Chris Brandolino discusses El Niño.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 03/07/26: Sarah Donaldson talks to Hamish McKay
The Wairarapa area coordinator for the Rural Support Trust discusses how South Wairarapa is coping after heavy rain swept through the area over the weekend.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 03/07/26: Tim Dangen talks to Hamish McKay
The 2022 Young Farmer of the Year is at the 2026 Young Farmer of the Year contest.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 03/07/26: Rowena Duncum talks to Hamish McKay
We catch up with The Country’s former producer at the practical day at the FMG Young Farmer of the Year contest, to learn more about the National Sustainability Showcase she MC-ed in Christchurch last night.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
DairyNZ Update: Brooke Sinclair, Kaiārahi Ahuwhenua (Māori Agribusiness Specialist)
In this episode of DairyNZ Update, Michelle Watt talks to Kaiārahi Ahuwhenua (Māori Agribusiness Specialist), Brooke Sinclair from DairyNZ, about DairyNZ's involvement in New Zealand's oldest and one of our country's most prestigious farming awards, the Ahuwhenua Trophy. More details about the Ahuwhenua Trophy can be found at ahuwhenuatrophy.maori.nz or you can directly contact the Dair
The Country Full Show: Thursday, July 2, 2026
Hamish McKay talks to Damien O'Connor, Brent Kleiss, George Dodson, Hugh Jackson, Chris Russell, and Karen Williams.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 02/07/26: Damien O'Connor talks to Hamish McKay
Labour’s trade and export spokesman discusses his party’s post-conference priorities, including apprenticeships, healthcare access and rural workforce development. Plus, his views on succession, sustainability and opportunities for young people in farming.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 02/07/26: Brent Kleiss talks to Hamish McKay
NZPork chief executive discusses the sale of New Zealand’s largest pig farm to local owners and what it means for the sector’s future. Plus, industry investment, RMA reform concerns, country-of-origin labelling and pork’s role as an affordable protein source.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 02/07/26: Hugh Jackson and George Dodson talk to Hamish McKay
As the FMG Young Farmer of the Year grand final approaches, we catch up with 2024 winner George Dodson and reigning champion Hugh Jackson for today's farmer panel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 02/07/26: Chris Russell talks to Hamish McKay
Our Australian correspondent on bird flu, soaring sheepmeat prices, and a Supreme Court ruling on glyphosate. Plus, a winemaker selling beer in wine bottles?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 02/07/26: Karen Williams talks to Hamish McKay
IrrigationNZ chief executive and former Ballance Farm Environment Awards regional supreme winner discusses judging this year’s national finalists. Plus, farmer wellbeing, sustainability and the strength of the awards’ alumni network.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country Full Show: Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Hamish McKay talks to Christopher Luxon, Stu Duncan, Stu Loe, Nick Beeby, and Lawrence Field.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 01/07/26: Christopher Luxon talks to Hamish McKay
The Prime Minister on a buoyant primary sector and how New Zealand’s Michelin-star-winning restaurants benefit tourism. Plus, the OCR, how heavy machinery rules affect farmers, and the Treasury Performance Improvement Review. And how is Police Minister Mark Mitchell doing after breaking his ribs at a charity rugby match?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 01/07/26: Stu Duncan and Stu Loe talk to Hamish McKay
This week’s farmer panel on bull sales, a booming red meat industry, and how the weather’s treating them in the Maniototo and Canterbury.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 01/07/26: Nick Beeby talks to Hamish McKay
We catch up with the chief executive of the Meat Industry Association for a closer look at a record-breaking May result for red meat exports.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 01/07/26: Lawrence Field talks to Hamish McKay
The founder of Rural Field Consultants Ltd discusses a series of free farm succession planning workshops he’s been running for Rabobank.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country Full Show: Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Hamish McKay talks to Andrew Olsen, Sir David Fagan, Neil Bateup, and Warwick Catto.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 30/06/26: Andrew Olsen talks to Hamish McKay
The chief executive of Rural Contractors discusses calls to update heavy‑vehicle rules that are affecting farming contractors.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 30/06/26: Sir David Fagan talks to Hamish McKay
We catch up with a shearing legend to hear how his son, Jack, fared at the Scottish Blackface Shearing Championship Open final at the Lochearnhead Shears in Scotland. Plus, how he reckons the Kiwi team will go on the Wools of New Zealand tour, which kicks off in the UK next week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 30/06/26: Neil Bateup talks to Hamish McKay
The former Rural Support Trust chairman is also the winner of the champion award at the Primary Industries New Zealand Awards. He talks about a new partnership with Farmlands offering free access to mental health and wellbeing support for rural communities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 30/06/26: Warwick Catto talks to Hamish McKay
The science strategy manager at Ballance Agri-Nutrients is also a long-standing on-farm judge of the Ballance Farm Environment Awards. He previews this week's National Sustainability Showcase, where the 2026 National Ambassador for Sustainable Farming and Growing will be named.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country Full Show: Monday, June 29, 2026
Hamish McKay talks to Te Radar, Andrew Hoggard, Sandra Faulkner, Nick Carr, and Phil Duncan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 29/06/26: Te Radar talks to Hamish McKay
The voice of FMG Young Farmer of the Year is looking forward to the three-day competition in Taranaki, which starts on Thursday and culminates in Saturday’s grand final.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 29/06/26: Andrew Hoggard talks to Hamish McKay
The Act Party MP and Biosecurity and Food Safety Minister discusses the likelihood of bird flu reaching New Zealand and how to prepare if it does. He also talks about his party’s new deputy leader, Nicole McKee.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 29/06/26: Sandra Faulkner talks to Hamish McKay
We catch up with a Wairakaia farmer, recently announced as Federated Farmers’ new vice president.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 29/06/26: Nick Carr talks to Hamish McKay
Kaharau Angus farm manager on the record $220,000 bull sold last week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 29/06/26: Phil Duncan talks to Hamish McKay
The man behind WeatherWatch.co.nz says this week’s forecast is a mixed bag.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dairy Insights with Fonterra: Debra Kells
Michelle Watt talks to Debra Kells, Farm Source’s Regional Head for the Upper North Island, about record attendance for Fonterra at Fieldays, On-Farm Solutions for farmers, and what's next for the new season.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rabobank Best of The Country: June 27, 2026
Jamie Mackay talks to David Seymour, Dr Victoria Hatton, Farmer Tom Martin, Dr Jacqueline Rowarth, and Wayne Langford. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country Full Show: Friday, June 26, 2026
Jamie Mackay talks to Colin Hurst, Rachel Shearer, Chris Brandolino, Chris Russell, and Barry Soper.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 26/06/26: Colin Hurst talks to Jamie Mackay
We ask the new President of Federated Farmers about the brutality of the politics within the Feds after he rolled his predecessor yesterday. Also, what does he hope to bring to the role and can he attract younger farmers to the cause?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 26/06/26: Rachel Shearer talks to Jamie Mackay
We ask the General Manager of Wool for PGG Wrightson if the just-finished 2025/26 season has been the best for strong wool since the 1980s.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 26/06/26: Chris Brandolino talks to Jamie Mackay
“Friday’s Favourite Weatherman” aka Earth Sciences New Zealand’s principal scientist, on winter’s first shot in anger and the looming super El Niño.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 26/06/26: Chris Russell talks to Jamie Mackay
Our Australian correspondent talks about the threat of bird flu and wool’s resurgence across the ditch.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 26/06/26: Barry Soper talks to Jamie Mackay
Our political correspondent comments on some fun and games from Winston, and whether Chippy should do a deal with The Opportunity Party.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country Full Show: Thursday, June 25, 2026
Jamie Mackay talks to Riley Kennedy, Dr Victoria Hatton, Tom Martin, Wayne Langford, and Dr Jacqueline Rowarth,See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 25/06/26: Riley Kennedy talks to Jamie Mackay
We head live to Auckland for the latest in the Federated Farmers leadership spill with BusinessDesk senior journalist, Riley Kennedy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 25/06/26: Dr Victoria Hatton talks to Jamie Mackay
The Palmerston North-based chief executive of Food HQ and food futurist looks at what will be on our plate in 2050 and what took her fancy at the PINZ Summit. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 25/06/26: Farmer Tom Martin talks to Jamie Mackay
Our UK farming correspondent comments on the heatwave and its effect on arable farming. Plus, we look at the demise of Sir Keir Starmer and whether it will be good news for farmers? Also on the agenda - Brexit 10 years on, Jeremy Clarkson's cancer diagnosis and the Northampton Saints. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 25/06/26: Wayne Langford talks to Jamie Mackay
In breaking news, we head back to Auckland to catch up with the now former President of Federated Farmers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 25/06/26: Dr Jacqueline Rowarth talks to Jamie Mackay
One of NZ's leading primary sector academics challenges an Otago University academic over claims of farmers having a disproportionate influence in NZ politics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country Full Show: Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Jamie Mackay talks to Jim van der Poel, Nathan Guy, Jo Luxton, Dr Vaughn Holder, Kate Acland, Danielle Hovmand, and Riley Kennedy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 24/06/26: Jim van der Poel and Nathan Guy talk to Jamie Mackay
We catch up with the former chairman of DairyNZ, who won the Outstanding Contribution to Primary Industries Award for his service to the dairy sector. He looks back on a career spanning four decades in the industry. Plus, New Zealand’s Special Agricultural Trade Envoy sings the praises of Jim van der Poel, Jamie Mackay, and the Primary Industries Summit, where he facilitated a diplomatic tra
The Country 24/06/26: Jo Luxton talks to Jamie Mackay
Labour’s agricultural spokeswoman reflects on a spirited debate about her party’s ag policies with The Country’s host the previous evening.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 24/06/26: Dr Vaughn Holder talks to Jamie Mackay
Alltech’s global beef research director and closing keynote speaker at the Primary Industries NZ Summit, on his documentary World Without Cows.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Country 24/06/26: Kate Acland talks to Jamie Mackay
We catch up with the chairwoman of Beef + Lamb NZ, who is also the winner of the inaugural Rural Woman of the Year Award.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
