It is often expressed from many farmers that there is a disconnect between farmers and Fonterra. There is a feeling that a lot of farmers don’t want to engage with their Co-operative simply because it has got so big and what chance do they have in really making a difference. Therefore first of all we must determine wether or not there is a disconnect and if so what we can do to improve engagement. In this report I will explore ways that the Fonterra Shareholders’ Council can better engage meaningfully with its’ farmers. This is particularly important to me because of my role as a Shareholder Councillor. I believe it is critical not only for the future of a strong and robust co-operative, but also for a favourable milk price for all New Zealand dairy farmers. A strong co-operative means actively engaged farmers that are not willing to jump to competitors for short-term gain. My concern is that if we end up with a fragmented dairy industry, as we have seen in other sectors, dairy farmers will be the ones who loose out due to an unsustainably low milk price. [Show full abstract]

The New Zealand Kellogg Rural Leaders Programme develops emerging agribusiness leaders to help shape the future of New Zealand agribusiness and rural affairs. Lincoln University has been involved with this leaders programme since 1979 when it was launched with a grant from the Kellogg Foundation, USA.