In this premiere of Rural Report News, Jaspreet Boparai and Don Nicolson delve into global and local issues shaping rural New Zealand. They unpack the ripple effects of Trump-era tariffs, which could surprisingly benefit Kiwi exporters, and turn to South Africa's controversial court ruling on a divisive political chant. Back home, Food Safety Minister Andrew Hoggard faces scrutiny over potential conflicts of interest involving his sister’s dairy lobbying. Greenpeace's protest against palm kernel feed sparks debate and a formal complaint, while the government rolls out a proposed scheme to recycle farm plastics, inspired by Ireland’s success. Pine planting ambitions for net zero by 2050 triggered alarms, with critics questioning land availability and policy direction.