In Auckland backyards, chooks have become the ultimate in free-range, recessionary accessories. James Russell takes a peek over the fence.

PGG Wrightson, New Zealand's biggest rural services group has returned to profit after impairments in the previous year.

Federated Farmers says fast, reliable broadband access is necessary if agri-business is to reach its productive potential. Simon Hendery reports.

Russia last week banned grain exports for the rest of the year after a severe drought and wildfires destroyed 20 per cent of its wheat crop.

Chinese dairy investors may be media shy, but they have been lobbying politicians and other key players at the highest levels.

One of the key people behind the Chinese Crafar bid has links with Pansy Wong's husband.

Sheep and beef farming could all but disappear in New Zealand if "structural issues" causing profits to drop are allowed to continue, says Federated Farmers.

The Chinese bid for the Crafar dairy farms has everything but transparency, finds Karyn Scherer.

It's easier to assuage your conscience with a Fairtrade latte than spend time contemplating the problems facing impoverished farmers.

A Chinese businessman alleged to be behind ambitious plans to invest up to $1.5 billion in NZ's dairy industry has only recently severed his business links with Jenny Shipley.