Something's wrong in the land of milk and money

Something's wrong in the land of milk and money
It's 20 years since Henry van der Heyden (standing) led the creation of Fonterra. (Image: Getty)
Brian Gaynor
This article has been republished. This article was first published in OctoberThe latest Fonterra capital proposal is yet another tiresome development in the cooperative’s attempt to set up an effective capital structure.Fonterra has tested almost every capital mix under the sun but dairy farmers are reluctant to approve a structure adopted by most successful companies.Fonterra’s chairman, Peter McBride, was quoted as saying on Sept 23: “Farmers leave the cooperative for different reasons, but one of the most influential ones...

More Primary Sector

Minerals royalties fall 40% as Govt orders review
Primary Sector

Minerals royalties fall 40% as Govt orders review

Govt’s cut from oil and gas slumps in line with production. 

The ‘evolution’ in Synlait Milk’s strategy
Primary Sector

The ‘evolution’ in Synlait Milk’s strategy

It’s going to return to being a South Island processor.

Alliance Group 'out of survival mode' back to 'growth' mode
Primary Sector

Alliance Group 'out of survival mode' back to 'growth' mode

The Dawn Meats joint venture will be official next week.

Riley Kennedy 24 Nov 2025