Canterbury Farming, August 2021 by Canterbury Farming

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INSIDE

THIS EDITION Young farmer title

August 2021 Edition

Doing milk differently Recognised: Bruce and susan turpie of Kolmar Dairies Ltd in Canterbury received the Doing Milk Differently Award at the recent annual synlait Dairy Honours Awards which recognise best in class dairy farming. the Doing Milk Differently Award recognises farmers who demonstrate Kiwi ingenuity for solving a problem or pursuing a new opportunity. the judges said the system the turpies use allows them to maximise feed and effectively get cows off paddock in winter, resulting in high production and strong pasture health and resilience. to find out more go to the full story on Page 51.

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Proposed changes to freshwater programme welcomed Beef + Lamb New Zealand has welcomed proposed changes to the stock exclusion regulations and the low-slope map.

❚ by Kent Caddick B+LNZ chief executive Sam McIvor said the Government’s original low slope map identified thousands of hectares of steep land as low slope and therefore required fencing, which was unworkable and wouldn’t deliver good environmental outcomes. “That’s why we are pleased the Government has listened and changed the stock exclusion trigger from a 10 degree slope to a five degree slope and introduced an altitude

limit. That means if the area of an extensive farming operation is at a certain altitude, or/and above five degrees slope, it will not be required to be fenced. That’s a commonsense solution,” McIvor said. McIvor said they also support the improvements to the spatial resolution of the low slope map, although they are concerned a level of inaccuracy remains. “The outcome is that the bite of the regulations has been reduced and overall the regulations are far more workable and ef-

fects-based. However, we need to now discuss the practical implications with our farmers.” He said there remains a lot of concern among farmers about the Government’s proposed Certified Freshwater Farm Plan, the extent it will prescribe what farmers can do, the costs associated with certification and auditing, and the extent to which farmers’ personal or business information will become publicly discoverable.

TO PAGE 2

August 2021

CANTERBURY FARMING

FARMING NEWS

USA sheep meat exports on the rebound Sheep meat exports to almost all major markets with the exception of China increased in May according to figures from the Meat Industry Association.

❚ by Kent Caddick

According to the Meat Industry Association’s (MIA) latest analysis New Zealand exported red meat and co-products worth $877 million during May. Overall, exports to China totalled $344m, down 14 per cent compared to May 2020. Sheepmeat exports to China reduced by 12% to 21,610 tonnes, and beef by 23% to 16,134 tonnes. However, sheepmeat exports to almost all other major markets increased, particu-

larly to the USA, with a 156% per cent rise to 2,816 tonnes, worth $41m. Sheepmeat exports to the US have rebounded from very low levels at this time last year due to Covid-19. Overall, sheepmeat exports were up one per cent to 36,193 tonnes, with a value of $369m. MIA chief executive Sirma Karapeeva said that overall exports were very similar to the same period last year. “We are seeing red meat exports return to

more typical levels” Karapeeva said. “There are changes in destinations, which reflect global demands and this underlines the ability of the industry to be agile and service markets with the strongest demand. “Chinese import data shows that overall meat imports into China from all countries declined slightly, compared to May 2020. This could be as a result of reported decreases in domestic pork prices in China and the larger volumes of meat imports in previous months.” Beef exports to most markets, including China, were down year on year, with an overall drop of 6% to 45,710 tonnes, worth $358m. However, beef exports to the US increased by 3%, to 16,755 tonnes and there

was a significant increase in demand from Switzerland. Beef exports to Switzerland increased 647% to 605 tonnes. This was against a smaller than usual amount of beef exports to the country last year, but still significant, as in recent years beef exports to Switzerland have averaged just below 400T/month. “Switzerland is a market that applies significant barriers on a number of agricultural imports including meat,” Karapeeva said. “However, it is a market where there are opportunities for growth and a report recently produced for the New Zealand International Business Forum identified Switzerland as the highest ranked candidate as a potential free trade agreement partner.”

Govt responds to freshwater plan complaints FROM PAGE 1 “The devil will be in the detail about the Government’s approach to farm planning. We need to see the farm planning regulations and guidance in detail because the Government has not defined exactly how they will work. “Our expectation will be that the Govern-

ment will further consult with the sector on the regulations. “We have been clear from the outset that farm planning should be farmer-owned, effects-based in relation to environmental outcomes, enable innovation, adaptation and be flexible enough to respond to different farms, not one size fits all.

“There are indications in the document that the Government has responded to that.” McIvor said the only information that should be made available to the public about an individual Cer tified Freshwater Farm plan is its most recent audit outcome, basically whether it passed, similar to public-facing food safety grade cer tif-

icates at a restaurant or café, or a WoF sticker on a car. “Farmers need workable and relevant rules and B+LNZ has been calling for effects-based approaches at the paddock scale to both winter grazing and to stock exclusion, delivered through effective farm planning.”

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B+LNZ chief executive sam McIvor is pleased the government has listened and changed the stock exclusion trigger.

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August 2021

Affordable wool carpets in kiwi homes Thousands more Kiwi homes will be carpeted in wool following a landmark agreement between Wools of New Zealand and leading retailer Flooring Xtra, as well as other independent retail stores.

❚ by Kent Caddick Wools of New Zealand (WNZ) is manufacturing and supplying wool carpet to Flooring Xtra’s 61 stores and independent flooring retailers across New Zealand from July. The carpet is priced competitively compared with synthetic carpets, meaning New Zealanders have a genuine choice between a synthetic product or a natural product direct from WNZ’s 730 farmer-grower shareholders. The wool carpets will be available at more than 100 outlets across New Zealand. John McWhirter, chief executive of WNZ, said the agreement with Flooring Xtra represents a win-win for consumers and farmers. “We firmly believe carpets don’t have to cost the earth,” McWhirter said. “Our goal is to grow the consumption of strong wool in the market by making wool carpet affordable to the majority of Kiwis. We can achieve this by utilising modern high volume manufacturing operations, without impacting on quality, and taking costs out of the supply chain. “This will be the first grower-owned New Zealand carpet brand to have grown its own wool fibre and supply a finished product to the New Zealand market, creating a strong branded connection with consumers.” McWhirter said one of the key barriers to increasing sales of wool carpets in the past has been affordability. “A 48 ounce 100% wool carpet now only costs 5% more for an average house lot, which makes it an extremely compelling proposition for Kiwis to choose wool over synthetic carpet. “As we embarked on our blueprint to help turn the sector’s fortunes around, we quick-

Affordable: More New Zealanders will be able to afford wool carpets thanks to an agreement between Wools of New Zealand and ﬂooring retailers. ly identified that carpet accounted for 53% of the strong wool clip. This meant that entering the carpet market and creating an affordable range of quality wool carpets would be the fastest way to fix the excess wool production. “Taking control of the value chain moves our grower shareholders from essentially commodity traders and price takers to brand owners and price makers. “Wool is one of the safest, sustainable and most eco-friendly carpet fibres available. Wool is 100% renewable, biodegradable and grown right here in New Zealand with a carbon footprint 14 times lower than synthetic.

Its environmental attributes are increasingly in step with consumer and government expectations.” He said like other New Zealand wool product manufacturers, such as Icebreaker, the carpet is manufactured overseas. “Manufacturing in New Zealand is expensive relative to overseas, so adding value offshore enables us to offer a competitively priced product with a robust margin. “Our Europe-based manufacturer also serves as a great launching pad to service the market in the Northern Hemisphere.”

Cost: Wools of New Zealand chief executive John McWhirter says one of the key barriers to increasing sales of wool carpets has been affordability.

August 2021

CANTERBURY FARMING

Damien O’Connor ❚ by for Agriculture, Biosecurity, ❚ Minister Food Safety and Rural Communities ❚

FARMING NEWS

Listening to farmers to enhance partnerships

I want to take an opportunity to dispel some misconceptions about the Government’s regard for farmers. We see our primary industries as a fundamental part of New Zealand’s future. Our economic recovery from Covid-19 is (and must be) a trade-led one. There is no other way to recover without our farmers and growers. What we also know is that we can’t stand still. In a changing world the real question we have to address together, is how we do we put ourselves in a position of strength for both accessing and competing in our future markets? Our challenges relate to sustainability, ethics and quality. And it’s critical that we can demonstrate our credentials in these. New Zealand has a proud history of being leaders in the efficient production of quality food and fibre. The changes we’re embarking on are our collective effort to front-foot these challenges, to see them as opportunities. Nevertheless, change is unsettling and it can be stressful. I get that. There’s been a lot of talk in previous weeks about pressure in rural communities. I acknowledge there are legitimate concerns about pressures that farmers are ex-

periencing – particularly with regard to staff shortages. What is untrue is to bundle up a list of concerns and say this is evidence of a Government that doesn’t care for farmers. Or that we don’t listen to farmers. The reality is that we do listen to farmers. Partnership is fundamental in our approach to tackling issues and there are many instances of collaboration. We listened to and worked with industry on Freshwater reforms. The consultation launched last month included improvements to slope maps and stock exclusion areas based on input from industry. We modified our approach to intensive winter grazing through collaboration with the sector, shifting back regulation and putting in workable solutions to the risks of poor practice. Based on farmer and grower input on climate change, we have kept the sector out of the ETS and asked it to go to work on creating an emissions pricing system at the farm level via He Waka Eke Noa. We’ve committed $37 million in Budget 21 for farmers to integrate upcoming freshwater and climate requirements into their

WINTER

farm plans. The integrated farm planning approach draws on current programmes in a way that aims to reduce compliance duplication. We’ve invested more than $111 million through the Sustainable Food & Fibre Futures (SFFF) fund to back projects that build value for New Zealand. The total value of these partnerships to date is $250 million. We’ve invested $8.4 million into MPI’s Workforce Skills Programme including $3.5 million to fund taster courses across the sector from kiwifruit to dairy, from vineyards to machinery operating. We’re investing nearly $1 million into DairyNZ’s GoDairy career programme. Our Opportunity Grows Here career campaign has attracted 5,800 people into the food and fibre sector since last spring. I welcome good robust discussion and it’s a sign of healthy democracy where people are prepared to get out and protest. What concerns me about some of the protest messages is that the wider public may come away with a perception that farmers are opposed to improving freshwater quality, participating in our climate change response, managing animal welfare, or are not appre-

ciative of the Government’s collaborative efforts that I’ve outlined above. There are many farmers doing excellent work out there to be sustainable, ethical, and add value to New Zealand’s reputation as an exporter of quality food and fibre. These areas of regulation being criticised are part of efforts to meet the challenges we face as a nation. But regulation is only one part of the picture, our Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures programme is investing heavily in industryled ventures. And then there are numerous industry assurance programmes helping us shift the dial, and that’s to be applauded. All of these efforts build product integrity and brand value for New Zealand. When I was overseas recently advancing FTA negotiations with the UK and EU I was routinely asked about sustainability, animal welfare and ethics. When I speak to exporters they say they get asked the same questions. I want us to be the best farmers for the world. We have a strong sense of ‘why’ we’re doing this, and I’ve always been committed to working with farmers to address the ‘how’.

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Lincoln alumnus banks Young Farmer of the Year title Lincoln commerce graduate Jake Jarman’s win in the recent FMG Young Farmer of the Year contest highlights the diversity of the agriculture sector.

❚ by Kent Caddick Lincoln University is a sponsor of the competition and had four alumni in the final. Jarman, a first time entrant who reached the finals by taking out the Taranaki/Manawatu Region title, was competing against, among others, a solutions and development specialist, a farms systems scientist, technical specialist, and regional sales manager. Only two of the seven finalists were on the pasture side of the farm gate, working in dairy farming. Jarman is now an ANZ Relationship Associate and comes from a fifth-generation family dairy farm. “I opted to go down the commerce route for my studies because it’s always been something I’ve found interesting,” Jarman said. He has not strayed too far from his roots in his job though, as he helps customers to start, grow and maintain their rural businesses, and his degree helped in his career and in the competition. “The Bachelor of Commerce (Agriculture) course at Lincoln was great in that it allowed me to learn about a wide range of the agricultural industry,” he said. The compulsor y practical work farm placements component meant he also learnt crucial practical skills during his summer breaks. He said the programme also included a whole year looking at one business and having to analyse their financial and physical

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The commerce route for my studies has always been something I’ve found interesting.

Winners are grinners: Jake Jarman celebrates his win in the recent FMG Young Farmer of the Year contest. Photo courtesy of Young Farmers

Jake Jarman Lincoln commerce graduate

performance, but then also be innovative in coming up with an investment idea. Field trips to the Lower North Island, Waikato, and Southland were highlights. “I thoroughly enjoyed them because we were immersed in the ag industry for a week, and I was able to learn about farming in all the different regions of New Zealand.” Jarman said the reaction at work to his win had been “really cool”. “They have been really, really supportive in the lead up and at the actual event. They really wanted me to win, so were great in getting me in touch with people to talk to and practice my practical skills with.” He won a prize package worth over $75,000, which included a $15,000 cash prize from FMG, a Honda ATV, and a $30,000 package from New Holland.

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The real protest comes at election time

Farmers across the country have made an unprecedented protest so early into a Government’s term. The extensive turnout showed the level of frustration and anger in the farming community.

David Bennett ❚ by ❚ National Party spokesperson for Agriculture The Groundswell movement has tapped into this resentment and has become a vehicle for these protests. To have these protests farmer-led and organised gives the movement more credence than any political protest. The manner in which the protests were conducted showed that farmers are respectful and welcome change, but change that is practical and science based. The support from the community, ranging from those on the side of the road, to agricultural contractors, to dairy companies, to stock transport companies bought a tear to many a farmer’s eye. This is a significant symbol to any Government and, as commentators have said, the Government ignores it at its peril. The Government’s policies are defined into two areas. First, attacks on personal property rights and second, on limiting the ability to farm. Both have the effect of limiting agricultural production and achieve a de-stocking approach. Let’s look at some of the Government policies that have led to the protest: • Unworkable Freshwater Regulations these regulations were the genesis of the Groundswell movement. They are simply unworkable and impractical. They are a strict Government knows all approach to regulation. An outputs based approach

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that is catchment based would be much more effective. The Government has struggled to implement its regulations and has had to revise and amend or delay key components, such as intensive winter grazing, wetlands, slope rules and the nitrogen levels. Unreasonable restrictions on migrant labour – the Government has an explicit redistribution of wealth policy and is restricting primary sector labour supply to achieve this goal. It’s also part of a unionisation agenda. This started in the Horticulture sector and is now being seen in the Dairy sector. Any petty exemptions to border policy should be called out for the token attempts to appease farmers. Distortions that preference Forestry over Agriculture – the exemption for overseas investment in Forestry and the failure to deliver the promised local Government consent restrictions have led to much animosity amongst sheep and beef farmers seeing traditional farms being planted for carbon farming. An out of control SNA process – Significant Natural Areas were to be used in exceptional circumstances and now whole swathes of farmland are being potentially comprised under these rules. The Climate Commissions direction to re-

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the government’s policies have the effect of limiting agricultural production and achieve a de-stocking approach.

duce stocking rates – the Climate Commission has abused its role and taken on a destocking direction. The Commission is unapologetic in its goals around dairy farming. Its emphasis on forestry will also drive land use change on sheep and beef farms. • Blackmailing Agriculture into the ETS – the process of He Waka Eka Noa is putting immense pressure on industry groups and iwi to come to an arrangement that is acceptable to Ministers. The threat of compulsory inclusion into the

ETS has been held over those groups. • Removal of Irrigation – the primary sector relies on water and the winding up of Crown Irrigation Limited means there is now vehicle for scale water schemes in NZ. Any schemes now will be minor and at the whim of Ministers. • Ending of tenure review – high country farmers are left with few options as the tenure review process has been halted. Many farmers were caught up with little options as DOC has taken unreasonable positions on land ownership. • An unjustifiable Ute Tax that has been forced upon ‘legitimate’ vehicle use. This approach is symptomatic of Government big on bold decisions, but lacking in any concept of practical realities and implementation. • Farmers and growers are also fearful of upcoming decisions around natural biodiversity and Dissolved Inorganic Nitrogen levels. Farmers and growers had good reason to protest. The real protest comes at election time. This is not a Government that will change its agenda. It may delay and re-articulate its agenda after “negotiation” with industry bodies. Be under no illusion, this is a true Labour Government that will only be defeated at the ballot box.

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August 2021

Ashburton drinking water testing reveals nitrate contamination Following a day of drinking water testing, Greenpeace and the Federation of Freshwater Anglers say the Ashburton region is showing unacceptably high rates of nitrate contamination in drinking water.

❚ by Kent Caddick Greenpeace recently held a free dropin water testing in Ashburton, drawing concerned bore owners from across the district, with 101 samples tested. Initial analysis showed 61% of the samples had over 5mg/L of nitrate contamination. Ten samples were over the current health limit of 11.3mg/L. A 2018 scientific study showed a significant increase in risk of bowel cancer at as low as 0.87mg/L of nitrate contamination in drinking water. Studies have shown that at 5mg/L of nitrate contamination, the risk of premature birth increases by almost half. Greenpeace senior campaigner Steve Abel said the testing was seen by locals as a valuable service. “Everyone should be able to trust that their drinking water is safe to drink, but many of the people we’ve talked to today have been shocked and worried at the amount of nitrate in their drinking water,” Abel said. “Our results show bore water around the Ashburton region is loaded with nitrate contamination. It’s no surprise that areas with high nitrate levels are the same areas that have a lot of intensive dairying. “The paddocks around Ashburton are crammed with cows. We know that synthetic nitrogen fertiliser and cow urine are the main causes of rising nitrate contamination in drinking water. “It’s not like you can just go without water - it’s fundamental to life. How do we cut the nitrate? We need local and regional councils, as well as the Government, to step up and regulate the

Testing times: greenpeace campaigner steve Abel uses a spectrometer machine to test water for nitrate contamination in Ashburton.

dairy industry by phasing out synthetic nitrogen fertiliser and lowering stocking rates.” Greenpeace ran the testing in conjunction with the Federation of Freshwater Anglers, whose spokesperson Peter Trolove said the results were unacceptably high for humans and for freshwater animals. “From an ecological perspective, this same groundwater feeds the lowland springs, where trout can no longer reproduce due to nitrate toxicity,” Trolove said. “The Resource Management Act states that regional councils shall maintain or enhance their region’s freshwater quality, quantity and ecosystems. “But what we’ve seen is that they haven’t improved the quantity. “They’ve allowed dair ying operations to drain the rivers and aquifers dr y, and this testing shows they certainly haven’t improved the quality of water, and they’re not meeting their

statutor y accountabilities.” Greenpeace is calling on the Government to take a precautionary approach and lower the health limit of nitrate in water to 0.87mg/L, in line with international research. The organisations have also been running testing days in Temuka, Winton and Riversdale.

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Protecting our assets

Fools and their money soon part. How true this Shakespearian wisdom is in the 21st century. There are some important steps we should all be aware of to protect ourselves and our accumulated assets in the event of a down-turn in the economy or an unexpected disaster.

Bessie Paterson LLB ❚ with Ronald ❚ W Angland & Son It was apparent after the earthquakes that a significant number of home-owners did not have insurance or their cover was entirely inadequate on their homes. It is now every homeowner’s responsibility to make sure that their home is insured for a figure that would cover a re-build and all of the associated costs. Gone are the days of replacement cover. Most companies and brokers are only too willing to assist their customers in calculating adequate insurance for their property. Insurance on household goods and vehicles is also important as liability can be a major risk especially with vehicle accidents. It has become common for parents to enter into guarantees to assist their children to purchase a property and raise a mortgage. No-one should ever sign a guarantee without asking themselves “will I be able to pay this debt if the borrower defaults on their loan conditions ie payment of the mortgage instalments?”. It is extraordinary how many people simply sign guarantees without giving a thought about their personal liability and what will happen if the borrower fails to pay the instalments under the loan.

Kiwi-saver will probably provide the next generation with a nest-egg for retirement. Apart from the obvious advantages of having Kiwi-saver for retirement funds creditors cannot normally access those funds to pay debts. It is also a major help when young people want to buy a home and they can use some of their savings as a deposit. If hardship arises as it does in many households Kiwi-saver will consider a partial withdrawal for payment of debt. For the entrepreneurial who wish to r un their own business good professional advice should be sought from tax experts, accountants, insurance providers and lawyers. It is all very well to be an expert in a chosen field but it is also important that the basic business aspects of the enterprise are looked after correctly. Many will set up a limited liability company which is a separate legal entity from the promoters and will give financial protection from creditors. If the directors sign guarantees they need to ask themselves the above question about payment of the loan instalments. A Trust is also a suitable entity for some types of business venture. this Article has been prepared by Bessie Paterson a partner at Ronald W Angland & son, solicitors, 2 Chapman street, Leeston

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August 2021

Impacts of new tenancy law for farmers and their workers The Residential Tenancies Act 1986 (the Act) has regulated New Zealand tenancy law for over 30 years.

Alivia Nevin ❚ by ❚ Helmore Stewart Lawyers This year brings significant change to the obligations of landlords with the enactment of the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2020. Farmers may need to reconsider their approach to workers residing on their farm. Often a farm owner will provide their workers with accommodation in a cottage on the farm – these are referred to as ‘service ten-

ancies’ in the Act. Although the Act aims to balance the rights and obligations of landlords, some farmers may consider that these new rules appear to be inappropriate for the farming sector. Consequently, farm owners need to be aware of their obligations not only as an employer, but also as a landlord. Among some of the most onerous changes for landlords are those relating to notice periods and reasons for ending a tenancy. These changes may be of concern to farmers as they navigate the challenges of terminating a tenancy of a farmer worker with the new statutory notice requirement. 63 days’ written termination notice must be given for a service tenancy or 90 days in the case of periodic tenancies. There are very limited circumstances where a tenancy service can be terminated outside of the required notice period. A service tenancy can be terminated with less than 14 days’ notice if the landlord has reason to believe that the tenant will cause sig-

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Changes to notice periods and reasons for ending a tenancy may be of concern to farmers.

nificant damage to the premises if they are permitted to remain, or if the landlord’s business requires a worker to be accommodated. However, if the former tenant has no other suitable accommodation, they may be entitled to stay. Farmers may find it difficult to hire new staff when former employees are still living on the farm, despite their employment coming to an end. This may create challenges for

the farm owner and their new employee if the previous worker remains in occupation of the accommodation. Potential employees may be less likely to accept employment because it could be unrealistic for them to travel such a distance for work every day if they cannot reside on the farm. This could obviously cause disruptions to the everyday running of the farm. This new law reform presents an opportunity for farm owners to consider their obligations as landlords and understand the non-compliance risks that have increased as a result of this new legislation. For example, dairy farmers may want to consider the timing of the new season and ensure that they have sufficient time to give their worker the required termination notice. Farm owners may wish to seek information from the tenancy website and advice from legal experts before dealing with the termination of a worker if they are residing on the farm, to ensure they meet all of their obligations as landlords and to avoid any unnecessary interruptions to their farming operations.

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New asset finance opportunities Farmers will have a new option when it comes to funding their new machinery purchases, with the launch of a new lender with a long history in agriculture, construction and commercial vehicle equipment finance.

❚ by Kent Caddick CNH Industrial Capital is the financial services arm of CNH Industrial, one of the largest capital goods manufacturers in the world, and has more than 60 years’ experience offering finance solutions to customers across the agriculture, construction and commercial vehicle sectors. Managing Director for CNH Industrial Capital Australia & New Zealand, Aaron Brett, said it’s an exciting chance for their team as there’s rarely an opportunity to launch into a brand new market, particularly one that’s so dynamic and diverse. “We’re confident we have the knowledge and expertise necessary to fulfil the expectations of New Zealand farmers, construction businesses and transport operators and offer them financing solutions tailored to their particular needs.” The CNH Industrial Capital product offering was officially launched at the Mystery Creek Field Days at Ohaupo, with the company working directly with 55 Case IH, New Holland Agriculture, Case Construction and IVECO dealerships across New Zealand. “For the local dealers, it’s a chance to offer customers finance assistance from the company that actually manufactures the machinery they’re buying – a manufacturer-operated finance product that allows dealers to offer customers a complete equipment solution that ultimately streamlines the purchasing process,’ Brett said. National Sales Manager for CNH Industrial Capital New Zealand John Gilbert said they know the products sold through these dealerships and we have a real understanding of the industries in which our customers oper-

New option: CNH Industrial Capital Australia & New Zealand managing director Aaron Brett says they will offer farmers a new option when it comes to financing their new machinery.

ate and a deep appreciation for the challenges these businesses face at certain times such as changing climatic conditions, fluctuating commodity prices, trade tensions and natural disasters. “In the case of agriculture, our team appreciates the seasonality and unique income cycles of farming operations and the need for flexible payment options that suit a customer’s cashflow.

“In short, we understand the products we’re selling and what’s required to finance that.” Brett said the CNH Industrial Capital team understands just how quickly customer circumstances can change and the need for flexibility around the terms of their loan. “We always aim to support our customers through business challenges, reviewing situations on a case-by-case basis and working

with them on alternative solutions. “We know better times can be just around the corner and our job is to provide the advice, understanding and assistance that’s needed until then.” Brett said CNH Industrial Capital has no transaction fees, no account-keeping fees and, unlike many of its competitors, customers can exit their contract early without incurring early termination fees.

RURAL PROFESSIONALS

August 2021

Inﬂation is here but for how long?

There is no doubt we will see higher reported inﬂation this year. In fact we’ve already seen it – grabbing headlines over the quarter (at least in market circles) were the various United States’ inﬂation reads.

May’s Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) index (the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure of inflation) was up 3.9%, the highest level in over 13 years. Excluding volatile food and energy, core PCE was still up 3.4%, the highest level since 1992. The question needs to be asked is it temporary, or will it be sustained? In our view, we generally agree with central banks that many of the current inflationary pressures are short-term factors. The long-term forces that kept inflation low pre-Covid such as the ageing populations, high debt levels, and fast pace of new technology development, are unchanged. That said: (1) the extent of monetary (low interest rates, quantitative easing, aka money printing) and fiscal (government deficits) stimulus has been unprecedented and the longer-term effects remain uncertain, and (2) justifying the current extreme policy settings will only become harder if economies continue on their current healthy trajectory. Additionally, we believe inflation could prove stickier in New Zealand than most other countries. We suspect New Zealand is facing pent up demand from the tidal wave of net migrants over recent time, especially in housing. In recent years, that same migration kept a lid on wages. But with borders now shut, capacity pressures are biting.

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand is edging toward interest rate hikes Arguably, the higher risk of inflation in New Zealand is reflected in the antic-

ipation that our Reserve Bank will be at the front of the central bank tightening queue. That said, we expect rate rises will be measured and modest. In its May Monetary Policy Statement the Reserve Bank forecast it will lift the cash rate in the 2H of 2022 and it will rise to 1.5% by the end of 2023, still a very low level relative to history.

New Zealand has remained a laggard For over a decade the New Zealand equities market has been amongst the strongest in the world. Year-to-date, the position has reversed. The New Zealand market is dominated by defensive dividend-paying stocks which many investor look at as an alternative to fixed interest investments such as bonds or term deposits.

The rise in long-term interest rates has generally been a headwind for these stocks.

Keep expectations in check We remain confident in a strong global economy over (at least) the next 12 months. That said, there are still risks for markets. Asset prices are not cheap by any historical reference. Risks of higher-than-expected inflation and therefore upward pressure on interest rates is higher than it has been for a fair while. Even though markets overall have continued to deliver solid returns, we maintain our view that ultimately these factors will likely mean future returns are lower than what we’ve seen over the past decade or so.

If you’re new to investing please see Forsyth Barr’s Introduction to Investing guide available at www.forsythbarr.co.nz/intro-to-investing/ or to discuss your investment options please contact Andrew Wyllie, an Investment Adviser with Forsyth Barr in Christchurch. He can be contacted regarding portfolio management, fixed interest, or share investments on 0800 367 227 or andrew.wyllie@forsythbarr.co.nz. this column is general in nature and does not take any of your personal circumstances into account. For personalised financial advice, contact Forsyth Barr for an overview of the services we can provide.

this report covers the quarter ended 30 June.

Looking at off-farm investments?

When you are thinking about your investment options, talk to Forsyth Barr To get personalised investment advice and portfolio management specific to your investing needs, talk to Investment Adviser Andrew Wyllie in confidence on (03) 365 4244 or email andrew.wyllie@forsythbarr.co.nz

CHC6189-02 - March 2021

Andrew Wyllie ❚ with Forsyth Barr ❚

CANTERBURY FARMING

August 2021

CANTERBURY FARMING

❚ with Rob Cope-Williams

FARMING NEWS

The good and bad of the howl protest

I know the ‘howl of a demonstration’ was a while ago now, but for me there was good and bad sides to the event. Firstly, it proved to the farming community that they are not a collection of individuals alone on their little bit of New Zealand, and that there are many others who think and feel the same way they do. It also showed others that farmers are real people, with real feelings and real grievances. It put a face to the industry. I could point out the comment from a Minister who referred to the demonstration as “Just a few Pakeha farmers down south”, but I do not think I need to, even though it did sum up an attitude towards the protest. I do think it probably ensured that many who were not going to stand up and be counted decided they would. On the negative side the Government ministers were very conspicuous by their absence. It was held on a Friday so Parliament was not sitting, and the members would have been back in their own territories. I seriously expected Damian O’Connor to have fronted somewhere, but he kept his head well below

❚ with John Arts

the parapet. Minister David Parker dropped gallons of cold water onto the subject by saying “Farmers should not expect the Government to back down from its commitments just because of massive protests.” That salt rubbed into the wound after the cycle lane for the Auckland bridge got the nod for hundreds of million dollars after a small protest. Anyway, while both sides either feel proud of giving their voices a chance to be heard, or feeling proud because the noise stopped, the problems remain. There is a line used by many who are not going to be swayed – “tell someone who cares”. It is a conversation stopper and a good one. Sadly, in my view, that is the problem here. All the farmers wanted was to be listened to. A case of feeling involved in their own future as an important part of New Zealand’s economy. Tourism has fallen through the gratings,

Photo: Chris skelton / stuff

so that only leaves the primary industry. Yes, the primary industry meaning the main industry. All politics apart, and do not forget that many farmers voted Labour at the last election as a blocker to keep the Green party out, communication would help hugely. Explain why migrant workers will not be

Part 1

Benefits of a good Multi-Supplement A good multi supplement is one of the best health investments you can make. This will ensure your body has the nutrients needed to stay healthy. Unfortunately most are formulated as a 1 a day dose. This means that many of the bulkier compounds are either omitted or included in meaningless amounts. As an experienced formulator I know it is impossible to provide sufficient nutrients to fit in a one a day product. My multi-antioxidant/mineral/vitamin has a dose of 2 capsules a day. A good multi should have all the important major and trace elements. I have real concern about low levels of critical minerals such as selenium, zinc, copper and manganese as these are needed to build our antioxidant defence systems. Many diseases are linked to low levels of trace minerals. Your multi should have a full B vitamin complex in particular B6, folic acid and B12 as they combine to reduce homocysteine which is a risk factor for heart disease and some forms of dementia. It should have meaningful levels of vitamin D for immunity. The regulations governing vitamin D in supplements are archaic so we should add extra Vitamin

D in winter. Vitamin E is the most important fat soluble antioxidant. This should be in the natural d-alpha tocopherol form not the less effective synthetic dl-alpha tocopherol. Finally it should contain the most potent antioxidants especially grape seed extract. I know of only a few products that contain these potent antioxidants. My preferred grape seed extract (OPC) is the well-researched and patented NZ made Oxi-fend®. OPC is unique among antioxidants in that it actively scavenges oxygen and nitrogen radicals. It also has an affinity to collagen making it a great cardiovascular protector. I know of no single botanical ingredient to have such a positive impact on health. John Arts (B.soc.sci, Dip tch, Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on 0800 423559 or email john@ abundant.co.nz. Join his all new newsletter at www.abundant.co.nz.

Abundant Health

allowed in to harvest horticulture and milk, while other sectors are getting ‘brain power’ workers. What will be happening to the water ownership and control of rivers, will DOC land stay as it is, etc. The ute tax was only the straw that broke the camel’s back, or I suppose in this case the straw that broke the horses back.

FARMING NEWS

CANTERBURY FARMING

August 2021

Biodiversity affects all of us

Canterbury’s natural environment provides habitats for a diverse range of native plant and animal life that supports the region’s ecosystems. In turn, these ecosystems improve the quality of our air and water, break down waste, store carbon and support climate regulation.

Jenny Hughey ❚ by ❚ Chair Environment Canterbury

Sadly, Canterbur y is now one of the most depleted regions in terms of native flora and fauna. In farmed areas of the plains, almost all native vegetation has disappeared. According to one Department of Conservation report, less than 0.5% of the Canterbury Plains supports native vegetation. It goes without saying, then, that biodiversity is something that affects all of us, and that it’s vitally important that we explore ways to improve it where we can. The things we do now won’t necessarily make a difference overnight. In fact, the benefits may not be seen for decades. However, thinking long term means finding and applying solutions today. One solution is to protect and boost the biodiverse areas that Canterbury is still fortunate to have. It’s well understood that investing in the protection of existing biodiversity is smarter and cheaper than revegetation or restoration. One way for farmers to do this is through a covenant – a legal agreement to protect a

piece of land forever, even if it is sold. Those farmers who see the long-term value in putting a covenant in place to improve biodiversity may be unsure where to begin or what to do ‘on the ground’ with things such as fencing, planting, or pest control. It’s important then to support them, and this is where Environment Canterbury can help. In general, we may be able to offer advice and expertise, and in some cases financial support, to those wanting to improve their corner of Canterbury through environmental work. With establishing covenants more specifically, however, we give financial suppor t

to groups and trusts that help farmers to do this. One such group is the QEII National Trust, Nga Kairauhi Papa. The Trust partners with farmers to provide expertise with establishing the covenant, as well as financial support with things such as surveying and fencing, and the covenant itself. The Trust has a history of doing great work in this space and maintains that the support it provides is very often the thing that determines whether, and to what extent, a farmer will invest in biodiversity. There are currently 362 registered QEII National Trust covenants in Canterbury, protecting 14,318 hectares.

The next decade is a crucial time for conservation in Canterbury. It’s in the long-term interests of the region that we work closely with committed stakeholders, community groups and landowners to achieve meaningful outcomes in biodiversity on community spaces and private land. If you’re thinking of covenanting land with biodiversity value or would like some support with an environmental project on your property, we are ready and willing to help where we can. As always, I look forward to hearing your ideas or any comments you may have. Please email me at Councillor. Hughey@ecan.govt.nz

Reflections on Matariki ❚ by teanau ❚❚ tuiono ❚ Agriculture ❚ spokesperson ❚ for the Green Party ❚

The Matariki season is about finding time with family to pause and reflect. Next year we will have our first Matariki public holiday, and I hope everyone will value it as a time for communities to come together. Matariki is significant for those living in rural communities because of its close association with those that work and care for the land along with growing the food we all need to have thriving sustainable communities. It should become a regular reminder particularly for our urban relatives that rural communities are on the frontlines of the changing climate, dealing with increased droughts, floods, and more intense storms. Matariki is the Maori name for the cluster of stars also known as the Pleiades. It rises in midwinter and, for many Maori, it heralds the start of a new year. Matariki is an opportunity for us all to reflect on how we all connect and are a part of the environment. From our maunga to the ngahere, from our awa and out to the moana; the environment is all connected. Iwi across New Zealand understand and celebrate Matariki in different ways and at different times relative to specific conditions of the environment they are living in. While all iwi celebrate the Maori New Year in June or July, some iwi in Whanganui,

Taranaki, the Far North, and the South Island refer to this period as Puanga, rather than Matariki. In these parts of the country, the Matariki star cluster is hard to see clearly and so iwi place importance on the star Puanga (Rigel), which is the next significant star closest to Matariki, and easier to see in twilight. Ngai Tahu in the South Island calls the star Puaka. Matariki is about remembering those who have passed and acknowledging the grief of their passing. But we also celebrate and plan the year ahead. It gives us time to look up at the night sky and teach our kids about how our ancestors used the stars to mark time and how the movement of the stars helped them understand what was happening on land. Each star in the Matariki cluster represented something: the best time to fish, dive or collect food, and the best time to plant or harvest crops. This wisdom, passed down to us from our tipuna, reminds us that human beings are part of the natural world and that that world is finite. Unlimited economic growth is not only counter to that wisdom, but also destructive to the environment and ultimately to ourselves. Our rural communities play a vital role, as protectors of the land, in ensuring the sustainability of our farming practices. We hope that Matariki will not only be a time for families to come together and enjoy a break, but also become an important time for everyone to reflect on the past; to protect the connection between ourselves and the land now so we can continue to enjoy it for generations to come. Matariki must be more than just another public holiday.

Need advice following the Canterbury floods? The recent flood event has impacted many farmers in Canterbury this winter and our local zone teams are here to help. We can give you advice and support to meet the rules and regulations in place to protect our natural environment. If you’re looking for information about the latest river works, stopbank repairs, advice on shingle removal or signing up for river text alerts head to our dedicated Flood Recovery webpage, ecan.govt.nz/canterbury-flood-recovery. Phone customer services on 0800 324 636 and ask to speak to your local zone delivery team.

August 2021

CANTERBURY FARMING

THINKING OF SELLING? It’s the local knowledge, the kind you just can’t buy When you sell with Bayleys, you’re choosing a salesperson with knowledge of the local Canterbury area. The kind of insight that can’t be measured and makes all the difference.

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80ha

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Fairlie

141ha

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86ha

Kirwee

62ha

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26ha

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246ha

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22.4372ha

Oxford

95ha

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8.3ha

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8ha/84ha

8.2974ha

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10.24ha

536ha

48ha

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76ha

Darfield

20ha

Darfield

200ha

31ha

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540ha

Gebbies Valley 38ha

Hawarden

McQueens Valley 211ha

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8.03ha

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572ha

Sheffield

127ha

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R es i d en ti al / Commercial / Ru r al / Property Services

FARMING NEWS

CANTERBURY FARMING

August 2021

Providing support through the farm audit process Farmers in Kaikoura who have been working with land management advisor Pete Bradshaw are feeling prepared for their farm audits. supplied by ❚ Article ❚ Environment Canterbury Bradshaw has spent a considerable amount of time leaning on fences and kitchen benches to help steer farmers in the right direction to meet local and national rules. One local farmer says the support Pete provided him was invaluable to helping him through his own audit process, which a few years ago, would have made him “run for the hills”. “Working with Pete encouraged us in all aspects of our obligations. He was approachable and helpful on so many levels. He visited us on-farm, carried out tests for us, and gave us good advice on practical ways to improve our operation. “Pete’s enthusiasm and help through the whole process made our audit much less daunting. We felt really listened to and valued as farmers. Really, we’re all working towards changes for the better,” he said Bradshaw himself says the audit process doesn’t have to be difficult or scary and engaging early with staff can really help in the long run. “The whole process is confidential, so if you’re worried about some aspects of your plan, or just want to check that you’re on the right track, I can help,” Bradshaw said.

Several earlier projects funded by the Kaikoura Plains Recovery Project (KPRP) helped set some good foundations for local dairy farmers to work from. In 2019, as part of the ‘farming in wet conditions’ workstream, KPRP funded ‘preaudit dummy runs’ where an approved auditor engaged with Kaikoura dairy farms, regardless of whether they needed consent. “This provided dairy farmers with an opportunity to see where they were post-quake and where they needed to be in terms of their farm audit,” Bradshaw said. “Kaikoura farmers were really lucky to have this early support. Being reassured that they were on the right track while showing them the areas that needed work, was a game changer when it came to preparing for their actual audit,” he said. All consented farms in Canterbury are required to have an FEP, which identifies risks and sets out how the farm is going to manage its environmental impact. All FEPs are audited by an independent auditor and Environment Canterbury are notified if there is follow up required, or to note when the next inspection date is set for. Farms achieving a C or D grade are considered non-achieving. An A or B grade are compliant and are audited once every two to four years depending on consent conditions.

Helping hand: ECan land management advisor Pete Bradshaw has been helping Canterbury farmers prepare for their farm audits.

August 2021

CANTERBURY FARMING

FARMING NEWS

Gene lab trio recognised with Primary Industries award The work of three members of Lincoln University’s Gene-Marker Laboratory to help breed healthier and more resilient, and ultimately superior livestock, has been recognised in this year’s Primary Industries Awards.

❚ Article supplied by Lincoln University

Lab director, Professor Jon Hickford, principal researcher, Dr Huitong Zhou, and lab manager, Freeman Fang, were given the Science and Research Award at a recent ceremony. The judges said they were impressed with the holistic approach of the Lincoln University team who brought a highly professional genetic approach to the business of farming. “Their genetic program was impressive as was their relationship with farmers. This guaranteed a practical result from a highly specialised scientific process,” the judges said. The lab’s main research focus is genetic variation in ruminants, particularly in sheep but also cows, and its association with economically important traits. It has developed test for genes which underpin milk, meat and wool production, and make livestock resilient to disease and environmental challenges, identifying superior animals. It tests for diseases such as foot rot, environmental resilience traits such as cold tolerance as well as improved intra-muscular fat content in meat, and for A1 and A2 milk in dairy cattle. Professor Hickford has worked at Lincoln University since 1989, teaching science and agriculture degree programmes, and has delivered 11 commercial gene-marker tests to market. “With these technologies, we have instituted programmes for the eradication of

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Good genes: David song, left, from award sponsor Yashili New Zealand, presents science and Research Award to Professor Jon Hickford of Lincoln university at the Primary Industries Awards. Photo courtesy of Federated Farmers of New Zealand

dermatosparaxis in white Dorper sheep in Australia and NZ, for the eradication of Microphthalmia in Texel sheep in Australia and NZ, and for the eradication of Gaucher disease in Australian Southdown sheep,” Professor Hickford said. “I share my research findings about wool, genetics, and breeding with farming groups and sheep and cattle breeders in NZ and

Australia and am committed to making my research accessible to the younger generation.” Meanwhile, Lincoln University alumna Emma Boase, who holds a Bachelor of Agribusiness and Food Marketing and is now People Capability Manager at Horticulture New Zealand, was presented with the Lincoln-sponsored Emerging Leader Award.

‘

I am committed to making my research accessible to the younger generation. Professor Jon Hickford Lab director

CANTERBURY FARMING

August 2021

AIMI survey of maize growers The average yield of maize grain for the 2021 New Zealand harvest was similar to last season, according to the latest AIMI Maize Growers survey. supplied by Foundation ❚ Article for Arable Research ❚ The survey showed that the average yield of maize grain for 2021 was 11.7 t/ha compared with 11.8 t/ha in 2020. The average yield of maize silage (21.0 t dry matter (DM)/ha) for the 2021 harvest was slightly up on last season (at 20.2 t DM/ ha), although the survey noted that these are averages across New Zealand and there will be differences across regions. The maize grain harvest was 85% complete as at June 1, 2021 which was earlier than normal. Over the previous eight years, the average was 78% complete. The estimated total tonnage of 214,900 tonnes (including unharvested grain) was up on last season’s harvest tonnage (up 13%), as a result of a similar yield (down 1%) from an increased harvest area (up 14%). Almost all (99.7%) of the total crop had been sold, leaving only 700 tonnes unused/ unsold, as held by growers, as at June 1 (as

compared to 600 tonnes at the same time last year, and much higher tonnages at the same time in all of the six previous years). It should be noted that the quantity of maize grain held by merchants has not been determined in the survey. The survey also showed that the Spring 2021 sowing intentions (as at June 1, 2021) were similar to last season (an estimated 1% decrease). The maize silage harvest was 99% complete as at June 1, a figure reached in the previous eight years. The estimated total tonnage of 1,165,600 tonnes DM was down 4% compared to last season’s harvest, as the result of a higher yield (up 4%) from a reduced harvest area (down 8%). About 59% of the total silage crop had been sold or used, leaving 477,000 tonnes DM unused/unsold as at June 1, (as compared to 390,400 tonnes DM at the same time last year, and 456,000, 349,000, 456,700, 365,100 and 457,600 tonnes DM

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Size matters: the size of the 2021 harvest of maize grain and maize silage is revealed in the latest AIMI Maize growers survey. at the same time in the five previous years). Spring 2021 sowing intentions as at June 1, were similar to last season (down 1%).

For the full survey go to: www.far. org.nz/articles/46/arable-industry-marketing-initiative-aimi.

August 2021

CANTERBURY FARMING

Bob Howden Engineering is a heavy roller After 35 years of operating his engineering business in Hornby Bob Howden has now largely hung up his welding helmet and becoming involved in providing agricultural services to the small and lifestyle block owners principally around the Prebbleton, Templeton, Broadfield and Ladbrooks areas, although for more major jobs he will go further afield. supplied by ❚ Advertorial Bob Howden Engineering ❚ The one exception to travelling longer distances is the heavy rolling service Bob offers, this being a custom built heavy roller that can be from 8 ton empty to 18 ton when full with a rolling width of 3.1 metres. The roller, when near empty, can travel on the road as any other agricultural implement or trailed machinery thanks to two hydraulically lowered axles, each with two aircraft wheels and tyres which lift the roller drum well clear of the road. This allows good realistic travel speed, making shifting to and from jobs far more efficient. The roller frame width has been kept to just under 12ft so access through 12ft gates will be possible in most cases. A Honda pump is carried with in the frame so the roller can be quickly filled to the required level from an irrigation pond or any other plentiful supply of water.

The benefits of heavy rolling are the pushing down of stones and evening up the level and smoothness of the paddocks, also rolling down pugged pasture in the spring, and in some cases rolling the paddock if grass grub is rife can have positive results.

Also the rear axles can be operated independently so laneways etc can be rolled successfully by lifting the roller up some on one side to allow the very outside edges of laneways to be rolled properly as the roller can be tilted to suit the camber of the lane Bob is from a farm background and has good knowledge in the cultivation, haymaking and earthwork fields, having an array of machinery to carry out most tasks on small and lifestyle biocks. Bob has grown Lucerne on his own lifestyle block in the Prebbleton/ Broadfield area for the last 15 years, making small conventional bales, which meet a ready market. Bob has built a hydraulically operated accumulator on the back of the conventional baler which produces the common flat eight pack while carrying the bales, therefore eliminating dragging the bales across the crowns of the Lucerne which will shorten the life of the stand and stops the bottom of the bales getting dirty and stripping of the leaf.

Hay is cut using a mower conditioner with rubber and steel rollers and raked with NH rollabar-rakes which are very gentle on Lucerne. The making of good Lucerne hay requires working some odd hours as to maintain the maximum amount of leaf which is what make the best product. Bob also offers a round baling service producing 1.2m wide bales which are best suited for cartage by road. Both types of bales Bob will cart from the paddock and stack in the shed providing the shed has good access and is in good cleaned out and tidy order Bob offers most cultivation services, such as grubbing, harrowing, rolling, ploughing and drilling, while landscaping earthworks is another string to his bow. As with his engineering business, his emphasis is on doing a really good job and being able to think outside the square as to what can be done and results achieved.

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CANTERBURY FARMING

August 2021

Catching on to versatile, quality feed Whether you’re looking for a multi-use catch-crop after winter grazing or fast, nutritious feed to help recover from autumn drought, oats and Italian ryegrass combined will deliver the goods this spring in a new mix called Catch-crop+.

❚ Advertorial supplied by Barenbrug

Recent research proves sowing the two species together gives extra flexibility of use and forage quality, with no downsides in dry matter yield or nitrogen uptake, compared to oats alone. What’s more, you won’t end up with a bare paddock that needs to be re-sown after oats have been cut or grazed. Instead, you’ll have a productive pasture, with good feed quality and excellent cool season yield in late autumn, winter and early spring. Barenbrug pasture systems manager Blair Cotching says his team trialled this mix last season, using Hattrick oats and Tabu+ Italian ryegrass. A key finding was that dry matter yield from Hattrick and Tabu+ over the first one to two cuts or grazings was not compromised compared to straight oats. “From the second grazing on, this mix had better re-growth and metabolisable energy (ME),” he says. “The addition of Tabu+ Italian ryegrass extended the period of growth for 12-18 months, saving the time and cost of re-sow-

Barenbrug’s Canterbury catch-crop trial in early November, showing oats plus Italian ryegrass vs grass alone (centre).

ing, and giving flexibility in deciding when to renew the paddock.” Oats on their own are a good catch-crop and provide useful bulk feed in a relatively short period of time, but they’re finished after one or two grazings or silage cuts, and need to be replaced. Adding grass at sowing however gives a high performance pasture for the next 1218 months.

This will be particularly valuable for farmers recovering from prolonged dry conditions, he says. “Some paddocks will still suit straight oats, because they are scheduled for resowing into new pasture or crop this spring. If you want a more versatile option, though, the oat grass mix is ideal.” More catch-crop trials are underway at Barenbrug this season, both in Canterbury

and Southland. Barenbrug has created a new mix of Hattrick and Tabu+ seed for this use, called Catch-crop+, which is available now. Blair says whether farmers sow oats alone or oats with grass, it’s important to get seed in the ground as soon as practically possible after grazing winter forage crops. Latest industry research shows catchcrops can utilise up to 40% more of the nitrogen deposited on winter grazed crops, and the sooner they’re sown after grazing, the more nitrogen they will soak up. He advises sowing at recommended rates, using certified, high-vigour seed and aiming for good seed to soil contact to improve establishment speed and success. Minimal tillage is best for seed bed preparation to prevent nitrogen being mineralised, but it’s still important to have a seed bed where plants can establish quickly. Nitrogen fertiliser may be required from October to maintain healthy plants and keep them growing. For more detail visit www.barenbrug.co.nz

Catch-crop+ The Catch-crop+ mix provides great flexibility and feed quality than sowing oats alone – and will last 12-18 months so reduce your costs.

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August 2021

CANTERBURY FARMING

Pasture mixes are driven by seasonal and feed deficits Every farming operation is unique and each operation has different short and long term goals. When considering your sowing options there are some key questions that need to be asked. supplied by ❚ Advertorial ❚ Pastoral Improvements Ltd Start with planning, establish your feed requirements. This is driven by the dry matter required in each season and goes hand in hand with when you need the feed and the expectation of how long will the paddock be productive for. It could be a specific crop to fill a feed need such as the winter period or a specialist summer crop or short rotation pasture lasting 1-2 years through to a perennial permanent pasture Traditionally the success of these paddocks has been dependent on climatic factors and also the use of inputs enhancing weed and pest control soil fertility and soil health. We are now facing environmental pressures and the climatic factors are becoming more challenging along with increasing regulatory requirements. There is more pressure on our water resources. Consideration of what is the best pasture mix should now also include consideration of dry tolerance

species that have deeper rooting systems enabling utilisation of water and nutrients from deeper in the soil profile. These species work best in combination with complimentary species in the pasture mix. The Enviropastures seed mix range has been designed to address not only the traditional requirements of growing feed but also answers many of the challenges facing pastoral and horticultural farmers. The range is designed for production with an underlying principle of soil health.

Enviropastures range includes seed mixes that are designed for soil remediation as well. A major principle of the Enviropastures seed range is having less reliance on synthetic inputs such as artificial nitrogen generally required for a high performance pasture or crop. This is achieved by species selection that will achieve humus building in the soil, mine key minerals, inhibit weeds, and provide some protection against pests and dis-

ease. Where five plant families are planted together, the variety of root mass works together creating phenolic compounds, which are beneficial for soil life and health. Commercial trials have shown that even poor compacted soils have responded to a specific and expertly selected Enviropasture mix, compaction issues showed quantifiable improvement within one season. Farming is tough with many challenges and all have the ability to undermine profitability. To meet these challenges Enviropasture can address the issues which you have the ability to influence. A correctly chosen Enviropasture seed mix can fill that feed gap as benefit soil and animal health. It will diminish the need for synthetic inputs and utilise moisture and nutrients that are deeper in the soil profile. The fundamentals do not change. Pasture mixes are driven by seasonal feed requirements. The choice of how to achieve this goal is enhanced by the Enviropastures range. The key is to use the right tools, buy the right seed and get the right advice.

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CANTERBURY FARMING

August 2021

Mid-Canterbury farmer named wheat grower of the year Mid-Canterbury’s Craig Muckle has been named as champion wheat grower for 2021.

❚ by Kent Caddick Muckle, who farms at Dorie, was presented with the Champion Cup at an awards ceremony, organised by United Wheatgrowers New Zealand, for winning the premium milling wheat award. The judges said his entry’s quality specification was “bang on”. Muckle also won the United Wheat Growers Bayer wheat grower of the year award with his wheat entry ‘Reliance’. This award is to recognise excellence in the industry. The judges said the entries in this years’ competition were exceptional, and it speaks highly of the industry to be this spoiled for choice to find an award winner. The Agronomist of the Year award went to Kerry Thomas. The judges said Kerry featured prominently in the top echelon of entries. He has over 30 years’ experience of

growing wheat and he’s well thought of in the industry. Bill and Nick Davey of Springdale Farming won the Mauri Mills Milling Wheat award for 2021. The judges said the Davey’s entry of ‘Discovery’ had “very attractive line with great quality parameters”. Brian Leadley of Ashburton won the RuralCo Gristling Wheat award with his entry of ‘Ignite’. The judges said Brian’s entry was a “very nice line of gristing wheat that hits all the requirements”. Warren and Andrew Darling, growers from near Timaru, won the Viterra Feed Wheat of the Year award for their entry of ‘Robusta’. “Very good appearance, excellent yield and a nis high test weight,” the judges said. Mike and Lynn Porter won the Farmers Mill Biscuit Wheat of the Year award with their entry of ‘Ignite’.

Job well done: Champion Cup winner Craig Muckle from Dorie in Mid Canterbury is presented with his uWg Bayer wheat grower award by Chris Milne of Bayer.

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August 2021

The Kelly Tillage System is jaw dropping Fairwood Agri Solutions are the proud importers of the Kelly Tillage System. A unique and versatile tool for farming that can provide seedbed preparation, seeding, chemical free weed control and post-harvest incorporation of crop all in the one tool. by ❚ Advertorial Fairwood Agri Solutions ❚ Daniel Lovett (Lovett Family Farms in Ashburton) used the Kelly Tillage System with PJ Green Seeding to establish oats and radish as green covers post-harvest earlier this year. “We hired the Tillage System and were impressed with the results of establishing the green covers and with how fast and efficient we could cover the ground and accuracy of seed placement.” The Kelly Harrows have a strong reputation of strength and reliability, while being versatile through providing different disc options, that can be applied to many different situations. There are currently 12 Kelly Harrows in New Zealand, ranging from 6m to 12m in width. The combination of the diamond shaped layout and versatile disc chain configuration provides even soil levelling and distribution. The shallow working nature of the Kelly chains makes them ideal for incorporating fertiliser both liquid and granular while

working the surface of the field, smoothing and levelling while creating a layer of tilth. The shallow action of the harrow preserves moisture near the surface and brings planter accuracy to it is best because of the smooth, consistent surface preparation. With chemical restrictions and changes in soil and crop management being demanded by New Zealand and overseas consumers the Kelly Harrows are providing a great way to manage weeds. The Kelly disc chains work in two ways. Firstly, they uproot existing weeds and bring them to the surface to die. Secondly the shallow scarifying action stimulates weed seeds to germinate and keeps them near the surface where their viability degrades quickly. Reducing weed seed bank, using shallow tillage, is a key tool in the fight against herbicide resistance. The versatility of the disc configuration allows for a double action to occur using the one machine. Dave Mitchell explains: “It’s the ability to put different chains onto the front and rear that provides a unique

opportunity within the Kelly Tillage System. “You don’t have to buy a whole new machine or run multiple machines. You can just change the disc configuration and get multiple effects.” The Kelly Harrows are available with an extra option of the PJ Green Seeder which makes them able to mini till and broadcast seed at the same time, promoting the efficiency of the machine to do both jobs in one pass, saving on time and fuel. Fairwood Agri Solutions travel throughout New Zealand for demonstrations on farm and encourages everyone to see it for themselves. “People can’t believe what this machine is capable off and the efficiency it creates because you can operate it so easily and at a good speed, getting great results. A tractor with 120hp would easily pull a 6m Kelly Harrow”.

For more information visit Fairwood Agri solutions website www.fairwoodagri.com or contact Dave on Phone: 0220869887for a free demo or visit at the Ashburton show.

the Kelly Harrows are available with an extra option of the PJ green seeder which makes them able to mini till and broadcast seed at the same time.

August 2021

CANTERBURY FARMING

FARMING NEWS

Cantabrian wins the arable farmer of the year award Mid-Canterbury farmer David Grant was named as the Federated Farmers Arable Farmer of the Year for 2021 at the arable industry awards recently. supplied by ❚ Article ❚ Federated Farmers The Arable Farmer of the Year Award is designed to recognise a member who excels at arable farming and to acknowledge the standard of excellence they set for the industry. Federated Farmers Arable chair Colin Hurst said Grant’s contribution to the industry through his work with the Foundation for Arable Research, and in innovation and information sharing, made him an outstanding candidate for this year’s award. “The award acknowledges a farmer who balances production and profit requirements against environmental, sustainability and other compliance requirements,” Hurst said. “Success in the arable industry typically flies under the radar in New Zealand, that’s why Federated Farmers created this award, to recognise and highlight achievement of the highest level.” A fellow Mid Canterbury grower, Graeme Bassett, won the Biosecurity Farmer of the Year award. This award is designed to recognise a member who is focused on protecting their property from the risks posed by unwanted pests, weeds or diseases, and has done biosecurity related advocacy work on behalf of all growers.

“Graeme was one of the first farmers who put procedures and protocols in place, including processes for contractors coming onto farm, with seed contamination being a key priority,” arable industry vice chair David Birkett said. “He has led by example for others in the industry to follow and we can learn a lot from Graeme’s work.” The Grain Grower of the Year award went to Southlanders Morgan and Karen Horrell. This award recognises a member who has made a contribution to the wheat industry over a number of years and has demonstrated outstanding wheat yields. The Horrells farm at Wendonside in Southland and grow winter wheat, winter barley, milling oats, garden peas, Blue peas, ryegrass seed and forage brassicas. They achieve constantly strong crop yields across the board and use a no-till farming system. Their wheat yields and quality would be in the top 10% of Southland growers annually with a medium input operation. The Seed Grower of the Year award also went to South Otago growers Craig and Anna Whiteside, who farm just north of Clinton. The Whiteside’s crops include winter wheat, winter barley, spring barley, milling oats, garden peas, radish seed, Asian brassica seed, tick bean seed, fava beans, ryegrass seed and turf grass seed. They

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Top job: Federated Farmers Arable Farmer of the Year Dave grant is congratulated by Feds chief executive terry Copeland on his award. have a large-scale operation and use 5 percent of the farm for their own trials of new crops. The lone North Island winner on the night was Waikato grower Paul Hunter, the winner of the Federated Farmers Maize Grower of the Year award.

The award is designed to recognise a member who is a grower with outstanding maize silage or grain yields but also makes a contribution to industry and recognises someone who balances production and profit requirements against environmental, sustainability and other compliance requirements.

FARMING NEWS

CANTERBURY FARMING

August 2021

Before: this large wetland on Balmoral station, known as Old Man swamp, has now been entirely fenced from livestock thanks to a joint biodiversity project.

Farmer support for protection of rare bird stopover Rare native birds that love to stop over in some of the Mackenzie Basin’s tiniest alpine lakes and remote wetlands will now have a safer trip, thanks to the completion of a major biodiversity project supported by local farmers.

❚ by Kent Caddick Fencing of two tarns (small alpine lakes) and a large wetland has now been completed at Balmoral Station near Lake Takapo/Tekapo, as part of a joint project involving Enivronment Canterbury’s Upper Waitaki Water Zone Committee. Nearly 4000 metres of fencing has now been erected at Balmoral for this project, funded by the landowners as well as $24,000 of biodiversity funding. The completed fencing, which helps to im-

prove water quality and habitat, will protect migratory species such as black-fronted tern, banded dotterel, New Zealand Pied oystercatcher, as well as important locals like the kaki black stilt. In addition, the landowners at Balmoral Station have fenced an area called Old Man Swamp, a large, diverse wetland which supports a wide variety of native tussock, grass and rush plants. Sam Simpson, from Balmoral Station, said the fencing project was part of their overall farm management plan that focuses

on the sustainability of their environment. The plan is broken down into smaller land management units which include detailed information on soil types, at-risk species and native plants. “We know we need to have fencing in place to protect all our special places,” Simpson said. “It just makes sense to us to farm sustainably and look after what we’ve got here.” Upper Waitaki Water Zone Committee chair, Simon Cameron, said the committee

was delighted the significant project was now complete. “The tarns and wetlands located in this area near Lake Takapo are so unique. “They are important to rare native species who use the tarns as part of their migrator y lifestyle, as well as birds like our critically endangered kaki that call Mackenzie home. “It’s great that the zone committee and Environment Canterbury can support landowners taking voluntary steps like this to improve biodiversity on their land.”

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CANTERBURY FARMING August 2021

Fertiliser standards can help farmers make informed decisions The Fertiliser Quality Council (FQC), the independent organisation overseeing the two industry standards Fertmark and Spreadmark, is encouraging farmers and growers to look to the benchmarks when making fertiliser and nutrient-related decisions.

supplied by New Zealand ❚ Article ❚ Fertiliser Quality Council Anders Crofoot, FQC chairman and sheep and beef farmer, said Fertmark and Spreadmark were introduced to help farmers and growers gain certainty around exactly what they are applying on the land, as well as how the product is being distributed. “Fertmark is a voluntary scheme, where fertiliser and nutrient manufacturers and importers submit a sample of their product to an independent Fertmark auditor for testing against the declared values. If the product contains what the manufacturers and importers claim, it is approved by Fertmark as being true to label,” Crofoot said. “We want farmers and growers to know that if they choose a Fertmark-approved product, it is guaranteed that what it says on the bag is what is in the bag. If they choose a product that’s not Fertmark-approved, there is no certainty about what the product contains.” Fortunately, around 80% of fertiliser product spread on New Zealand soils is Fertmark approved. Similarly, the Spreadmark standard is an accreditation scheme for spreader operators to ensure the accurate and even distribution of fertiliser; Mr Crofoot explains that that this is also aligned to agronomical advantage and environmental good practice. “To gain Spreadmark certification, operators undergo significant training and their spreader trucks are tested regularly,” Crofoot said “Choosing a Spreadmark certified oper-

‘

FQC chairman Anders Crofoot says Fertmark and Spreadmark were introduced to help farmers and growers gain certainty around exactly what they are applying on the land, as well as how the product is being distributed.

It’s important for farmers and growers to know the characteristics of the fertiliser they have ordered. Anders Crofoot FQC chairman

ator gives farmers confidence that not only will the product be distributed exactly where it needs to go but that operators will comply with environmental regulations – and put health and safety first.” Spreader operators are also highly knowledgeable about the various fertiliser product types. They calibrate their vehicles to best suit the chosen product. Furthermore, they can advise farmers about spread patterns to ensure that expectations are realistic. “Where a single nutrient fertiliser is being applied, understanding how it will spread isn’t too much of an issue,” Crofoot said. “But where multiple nutrients are being applied, farmers and growers need to know whether the product is a single compound fertiliser or a blend of products so they can then understand how it will distribute.”

A compound fertiliser is made up of several nutrients combined into a single, evenly sized granule. These granules are manufactured as uniformly as possible in terms of shape, size and weight. When distributed, compound granules tend to flow freely and evenly, promoting even growth. By comparison, a fertiliser blend may feature fewer uniform granules with particles varying in size, shape and weight. There’s a risk that particles can segregate resulting in some not being thrown as far as others leading to uneven distribution and a risk of striping. “It’s important for farmers and growers to know the characteristics of the fertiliser they have ordered so that they understand the distribution outcomes. If accurate and even spread is critical to the growth of the crop, a

quality compound will achieve those results. If accuracy is less important, a more cost-effective blend might be best.” “Whichever farmers and growers choose, it is critical that they talk to their spreader operator and discuss product and application details.” The Fertiliser Quality Council says farmers and growers can ensure they are using a Fertmark approved fertiliser by looking for the Fertmark logo or asking their fertiliser rep or the manufacturer if the product is registered with the scheme. Likewise, the question ‘are you Spreadmark accredited?’ can be asked of spreader operators. More information about Fertmark and Spreadmark is available at www.fqc.co.nz

August 2021

CANTERBURY FARMING

Pragmatic approach to GHG emissions Rik Mulder ❚ by ❚ Soil Matters Soil Consultants How to be pragmatic about agricultural GHG emissions to succeed in New Zealand’s commitments to the Paris Agreement Goals? Start with finding out how much N you really need to grow your crops and pastures whilst providing your animals with sufficient protein. GHG emissions is a big topic these days. Due to global pressure, politicians, farmers, and entrepreneurs are trying to get their heads around it all and desire to quantify the impacts of different gas emitting activities. Some say that it is unfair to point at ruminant animals as the main producers of greenhouse gasses because it is produced with carbon that is part of the atmosphere already anyway. It works like so... plants take up carbon in the form of CO2 from the atmosphere. This is not carbon coming from fossil fuel, so theoretically no additional C is introduced. The plant is eaten by an animal and some of the carbon in the animal feed is then excreted in the form of methane. This is the pointy end of the stick. The global

warming potential of methane is supposedly 25 times higher than CO2.

Can we reduce methane production in animals? Scientists and entrepreneurs are trying hard to find solutions, like changing the microbial populations in the stomach of ruminants, genetic selection of animals with lower methane emissions, or manipulating the animal’s diet by adding feed additives to lower methane emissions. Current emission calculations, that are used to estimate GHG emissions from individual activities, use average numbers that have been discovered in research. Therefore, an individual on-farm approach for this is hard to construct as of today because an individual measurement approach is not cost-effective and realistic to execute. But to answer the question about whether methane from ruminant animals can be reduced, we must look at the digestive system. A cow with a healthy digestive system has a higher feed efficiency and therefore produces less methane per production unit than a cow with an upset stomach. Currently a lot of research is done to see what feed or feed supplements can help with reduc-

ing methane production, or increase feed efficiency, in a way that does not affect production. So, whilst it will not change the emission score of your farm at this stage, for the animal’s health and the environment it is good to keep an eye on your animal’s digestion.

What does that have to do with nitrogen? A low-hanging fruit to reduce emissions is reducing nitrogen fertiliser use. Nitrogen fertiliser production has an incredible footprint due to the energy required to manufacture this magic product. Additionally, using additional nitrogen goes hand in hand with nitrogen losses in the form of leaching and nitrous oxide emissions. Adding nitrogen fertiliser often increases the quantity of grass but does not always enhance product quality when too much is applied. When a deficiency of nitrogen is present, adding more nitrogen usually has a direct correlation with more yield; but on the flip side, when too much N is applied, quality and plant health may be compromised which may result in, for example, higher fungal pressure in crops, or potent grass on which a cow’s digestive system can experience stress.

From an animal nutrition point of view, N drives crude protein in grass but this type of protein is easily fermented in the forestomach. According to a recent article from the Wageningen University in the Netherlands, nitrogen losses in the rumen increase linearly with crude protein content. Keeping a close eye on milk urea and ensuring that the animal can maintain its condition can help with managing your nitrogen usage. Therefore, the trick is to grow sufficient and good grass with as little nitrogen fertiliser as possible. Whilst we have gotten used to N from the bag, it is not the only way to grow crops and grass. In a balanced ecosystem, atmospheric nitrogen is sufficient to grow good crops. This goes back to ‘the art of farming’ and that ‘everything is a product of the environment’ – topics that we sometimes talk about. Soil Matters can help with diagnosing your crop’s or pasture’s nitrogen requirements. From here a plan can be constructed to increase nitrogen use efficiency and use the nitrogen that is available for free in the atmosphere. If we get smart about that, we will farm smarter and automatically aid in working towards the Paris agreement goals. A win-win.

Need to lower your nitrogen usage? Want to improve your soil health? Soil Matters can help. Future-proofing NZ farming through sustainable practices www.soilmatters.co.nz

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CANTERBURY FARMING August 2021

Groundspreaders celebrate 2021 award winners

The winners and runners up of the 2021 New Zealand Groundspread Fertilisers Association (NZGFA) awards were congratulated by newly elected association president, Graeme Martin, on their contributions to the ground spreading industry at the association’s recent conference at Aoraki, Mt Cook. supplied by New Zealand ❚ Article ❚ Fertiliser Quality Council The awards programme, now in its third year, saw John Whitehead of JWE Ltd scoop two of the four awards – The Innovation Award, sponsored by Keith Andrews Ltd and The President’s Award, sponsored by Ballance Agri-Nutrients. Whitehead has been manufacturing, repairing and supplying New Zealand with leading edge GPS technology and equipment for agriculture for nearly 30 years. Of particular note is JWE’s industry-acclaimed V3 spreading computer with variable rate capability. John is well recognised as an innovator of technology and builder of quality solutions for the industry. The runners up for those categories (respectively), were Travis Churchill of Spread Test NZ – one of the country’s most respected spreader testers and Matthew Blomfield of Transport Services Southland Ltd – winner of last year’s Young Achiever’s Award. Nick Hyslop of of Hyslop Groundspreading Ltd was awarded the Health & Safety Award, sponsored by Graymont. Hyslop, an owner-operator, was acknowledged for his commitment to ensuring health, safety and mental wellbeing is a priority for everyone involved in groundspreading and his input into the delivery of regular driver-training sessions for NZGFA members. The runner up for this category was spreader operator, Anne-Marie Davison, of

Spreader trucks on display at the 2021 New Zealand Groundspread Fertilisers Association conference at Mt Cook.

Wealleans Bay of Plenty. Finally, Toby Evans, of Brooks Spreading Ltd, was awarded the Ravensdown-sponsored Young Achiever’s Award. Toby was recognised for his exceptional organisational skills, time management capability, positive influence on others and outstanding work ethic. Spreadmark-certified spreader operator, Georgia Voice of Philip Wareing Ltd was the runner up for this category.

The award ceremony took place at a Gala Dinner at the association’s 64th annual conference. Chaired by mountaineering legend, Mark Inglis, the event also applauded the out-going NZGFA president, John Schultz of Mainland Groundspreading, and welcomed Graeme Martin of Waikato-based Wealleans Ltd.

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Commenting on the awards, Mr Martin said the industry is in safe hands. “I am in awe of the amount of talent within this industry and the commitment that industry members are making on professional and personal levels. Congratulations to all our award winners and runners up..” The NZGFA was established in 1956 to promote and protect the interests of both individuals and companies involved in the groundspread fertiliser industry. The organisation promotes Spreadmark, the industry standard, and encourages its members to achieve Spreadmark-accreditation. Spreadmark is a quality assurance programme that guarantees accurate fertiliser distribution by trained operators using certified spreading machinery and a management system that puts economic and environmental farmer/grower outcomes first.

August 2021

CANTERBURY FARMING

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CANTERBURY FARMING

August 2021

Free GPS guidance for self-spreading fert ❚ ❚

New Zealand pastoral farming relies on the application of nutrients in the form fertilisers, to help replace those lost from livestock farming, and in turn grow more pasture to continue the cycle. Advertorial supplied by Estimates of up to 20% of tonnages are applied by self-spreading in many rePrecision Farming

The application of fertiliser is therefore commonplace across the wider pastoral landscape of New Zealand. Until now, farmers who want to apply their own fertiliser have had to rely on one of three options for getting their fertiliser in the right place. First, are the GPS systems that sometimes come with the spreader, whether that be a tow-behind or a three point linkage. Second, they can purchase separate GPS hardware for guidance and electronic proof of application of the nutrients applied, or third, they have used the “graduated eyeball” and lined up their tractor and tow-behind with a fence post. The first two options are really only for guidance – their integration with farm management reporting systems is effectively non-existent. Now with the 190kg per Ha regulations taking effect, farmers are interested in getting better accuracy, as well as electronic Proof of Application, for all their applied nutrients, including self-spread.

gions, up to 100% in the West Coast of the South Island. By virtue of its independent and fragmented nature, solutions that help farmers place fertilisers accurately are costly and complex. Up until now the farmer applied, or selfspreader market, has been a difficult one to gauge. Not only in tonnage applied, but also where and at what times of the season. There can be no argument that this practise forms a large part of the NZ fertiliser eco system. This market is now able to benefit from the alignment of technological advances seen in the recent past. The abundance of powerful personal computers, in the form of cell phones, and tablets, combined with app-based technologies, that have already revolutionised whole sectors and industries outside of farming, are becoming available now for use with agriculture. The availability of relatively inexpensive and ever-increasingly accurate access to computing power, connectivity, and GPS location data, has allowed Precision Farming to create a new solution to help farmers

Precision Farming has released a free app for farmers to use on their own Android tablet, which provides the ability to create spreading jobs by product and paddock and rate.

improve their self-spreading performance. Precision Farming has released a free app for farmers to use on their own Android tablet, that provides the ability to create spreading jobs by product and paddock and rate, either in advance or “on-the-fly”, then simple, easy-to-use GPS guidance to direct the driver applying the fertiliser, and automatic recording of applied fertilisers to display on the Precision Farming platform for electronic Proof of Application. The system then has a series of optional

upgrades for modest annual subscriptions. Examples of these include (i) orders can be downloaded from MyBallance directly into the tablet and the electronic PoA returned to MyBallance (ii) the system can be used for spray applications (iii) the software can also guide the moving and correct placement of K-Lines for irrigation or effluent. The system can also integrate PoA records into one report for Overseer etc for both commercially applied and self-spread fertiliser, and effluent NPK.

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August 2021

CANTERBURY FARMING

Remaining competitive in the market place As we continue to farm deeper into a period of more regulation and compliance, farmers are forced to look at more efficient ways to try and remain competitive in the market place as well as having and maintaining a productive, profitable and sustainable business model. supplied by ❚ Advertorial CP Lime Solutions ❚ Fertiliser is usually one of the largest discretionary expenses in the farm budget and combined with rising costs of both the fertiliser and transport the expense is getting higher and higher every year. If the farmer could reduce some of these costs while still applying the necessary nutrients as well as being environmentally savvy the outcome for everyone will be a win/win. This is where the benefits of using CP Lime Solutions Optimise fine particle, pelletised lime and Fertilisers really come into their own. Because it is finely ground you do not need as much so you save on Transport (saving number 1), you can save on application costs as you are not applying as much (saving number 2) and because it is pelletised you will get a much more accurate spread pattern with less dust which is better

for the environment and your nutrient budget( saving number 3). CP Lime Solutions are able to add all your N, P, K & S nutrients either into the Optimise Pellet or blend it together along with adding any trace elements that are required such as boron, selenium, zinc or cobalt. Bio Stimulants such as fish hydroslate, humates or microbes can also be added giving you a complete fertiliser package that is able to be carted and spread in one easy to pass mix which saves you money in Transport and application. High analysis fertilisers and Nitrogen products are able to be blended and spread with Optimise as the moisture content is below 1% which gives you a chemically stable product allowing you once again to have an efficient product that ticks all the boxes. Josh Bradfield, a Farmer from South Otago, shares his thoughts on how Optimise has helped his farming production “The team at Optimise have been

open to understanding my journey into improved soil health. “Their product has helped my plants be more palatable while supporting soil biology and the environment and they have the ability to adapt your fertiliser mixes to suit these needs. “Overall, I have achieved better results while applying lower rates with this product with reduced costs, time and environmental impact.” Optimise is available in a number of standard lines or fertiliser blends that are available to the farmer which have all been designed to maximise production and efficiencies for your pasture or crops while maintaining or increasing fertility requirements. For your complete fertiliser and nutrient requirements, soil testing and recommendations, pricing or to find out more about how Optimise or any of our other products may help your business give one of our friendly team a call. You will find all the details at www.cplimesolutions.net.nz

Optimise is available in a number of standard lines or fertiliser blends that are available to the farmer which have all been designed to maximise production and efficiencies for your pasture or crops while maintaining or increasing fertility requirements.

What’s the point of pelletised lime? Well, Optimise® transports easily, spreads evenly, stays where you put it, you need 10x less and it breaks down readily. Oh, and doesn’t cost the earth (financially or environmentally). To start seeing the benefits, order your soil test today at cplimesolutions.net.nz or by calling 0508 678 464

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CANTERBURY FARMING

August 2021

Nitrogen’s double-edged sword Nitrogen is one of the essential minerals that is required to produce chlorophyll, nucleic acids and enzymes.

Don Hart ❚ by Top Soils and Biological ❚ CEO Farming & Soil fertility consultant ❚

For all plant cells to divide they need nitrogen. The question we must ask ourselves is do we buy it or produce it in the soil. With the new legislation requiring producers a limit of 190kgs N /ha, many will have to reduce N by more than 20% to achieve this. It has always been understood that a reduction of more than 20% of N per year will impact production. One of the reasons being that the soil biology has been using the soluble synthetic N as its own energy source, and any reduction will affect how much N is left over for the plants use. The biology eats at the high table first, if they cannot get their energy fix, they will take it from the soil carbon. Any depletion of soil carbon will have dramatic effect on the soils water and nutrient holding capacity. The result in of all this is possibly, smaller plant cells because of Nitrogen starvation on the plant cell, reducing the size and biomass of the plant. So how is it possible to achieve high production without the use of excessive nitrogen?

A systems approach to problem solving in agriculture Taking a system approach for problem solving is a valuable tool to make our farming more resilient and profitable, it takes the relationship between the problem and the cause, making us think of what we are doing, asking why instead of how. It’s not necessarily changing the tried and true but adopting new initiatives to problem solving. Top Soils has been promoting for the last decade how producers can successfully reduce nitrogen applications and not impact productivity and profit. In fact, demonstrating increased social

top soils has been promoting for the last decade how producers can successfully reduce nitrogen applications and not impact productivity and profit. and economic advantages and to be resilient, plus meeting environmental compliance. This is achieved by balancing and correcting the mineral content using the Kinsey-Albrecht system of soil fertility, based on the needs of that farm and its soil, along with diverse multi-species pastures and meeting the needs that supports and feeds the soil biology. This produces high productivity through

plant health and is responsible for higher yields and quality. In fact, the closer the soil gets to the ideal balance, determined by the soils Tec, and following a prescribed set of procedures and formulars, the greater the yield and quality that is achieved. On one farm fertiliser comparison over several years in Canterbury, comparing Top Soils soil fertility programme with a traditional fertiliser programme, nitrogen is only

applied at 100 kgs N per ha, and achieving an increase in kgs of milk solids/ha, compared to 150kgs N/ha for the tradition fertiliser system. Both systems are producing excellent results, but Top Soils complete systems approach demonstrates a real difference for our clients. So let the results speak for themselves, not by some sort of reasoning that it cannot possibly work on your farm.

August 2021

CANTERBURY FARMING

The true value of BioActive Soils fertiliser Each ingredient in our BioActive Soils products has a pivotal role to play in building healthy, fertile soil ecosystems.

❚ Advertorial by BioActive Soils

We have invented a way to harness Neptune’s bounty and transfer all its goodness onto land, (as sea goes with land), resulting in significant long-term benefits to your farms soil, plant, and livestock. We are not a simplistic chemical NPKS input, as the conventional fertiliser industry knows it, rather we stand alone as an innovative solid fertilisation programme that addresses the all-important link that biology, the backbone of a highly functional soil. Where important growth and health nutrients are required, we do add NPKS and other inputs to our fish and seaweed minerals fertiliser base, to ensure grass and crop production is maximised. However we do it in proportions that work with the soil microbes we are adding, rather than against them. Pasture carries approximately 32% protein on a good day, with a further 10% being basic minerals and trace elements. The balance is made up of phytonutrients, vitamins, digestible and probiotic microbes. Our products fish and seaweed minerals are therefore pivotal to the plants biology, which is why a stronger, healthier, nutrient dense plant results from our inputs.

Using BioActive Soils fertiliser in a consistent, ongoing way, has a compounding effect as each application is introducing and feeding life to the soil. This cumulative effect results in: • Building carbon in the soil for greater moisture retention • Creating stronger plants that naturally resist pests and weeds • Developing a more nutrient rich diet for your livestock • Maximising soil fertility by maintaining a high functioning soil ecosystem that is full of life

Some quick facts: • Mycorrhizal (soil fungi) can access 10 times the water and nutrients to cycle into plants than plant roots alone • A 1% increase in active carbon in the soil can retain four more litres of water per sqare metre • 90% of nutrients naturally cycled into a plant is done through soil microbes. Because we add and feed soil microbes with our products, we are protecting this critical function and working the way nature intended. You simply can’t put a price on that.

Because we turn the soil’s biological lights on, BioActive soils are redefining what’s possible for your farm, now, and for future generations.

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CANTERBURY FARMING

August 2021

Will splash plates be banned? Lloyd thomas ❚ by Efﬂuent ❚ Nevada ❚ Management Specialist Q: I operate a dairy farm in South Canterbury and currently spread effluent using a slurry tanker with splash plate. Will we always be able to use splash plates or will we be forced to use dribble bars like over in Europe? A: As yet there are not any signs of New Zealand councils banning the use of splash plates on slurry tankers. Although this has happened in much of Europe, New Zealand conditions are different. If our councils were to focus on spreading and air quality it is actually more likely they would ban travelling irrigators. In New Zealand splash plates are becoming a thing of the past with slurry tanker

Nevada slurry tankers use a RainWave applicator which provides the best in both performance and value. manufacturers moving to better applicator alternatives. Dribble bars are an option but may not be the best option available. Nevada slurry tankers use a RainWave applicator which provides the best in both performance and value. Even in Europe the Nevada RainWave is an approved meth-

od of application. Independent trials have shown the loss by volatilisation is equivalent or better than a dribble bar. You may like to read our blog ‘Will Councils Ban Splash Plate Spreading?’ for a more in-depth explanation on this, or take a look at our review – ‘What’s The Best Appli-

cator For Slurry Tankers?’. Lloyd thomas is an accredited Efﬂuent Management specialist at Nevada. If you’ve got a question you’d like answered email lloyd@nevadagroup.co.nz or visit www.nevadagroup.co.nz or post your query on www. nevadagroup.co.nz/resources/you-ask-we-answer

New Zealand’s Dairy Effluent Management Specialists | nevadagroup.co.nz | 0800 464 393

Focusing on the client, the farming system, the soil and the long term. Fertiliser & trace elements, soil bio stimulants, soil testing, animal mineral licks. P 0800 222 203 E info@mainfert.co.nz

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August 2021

CANTERBURY FARMING

Research shows how nitrogen leaching can be reduced Significant reductions to nitrogen (N) leaching can be achieved by changing irrigation management practices, and new research has demonstrated just how big those benefits can be. supplied by ❚ Article Fertiliser Association of New Zealand ❚ A desktop study led by Dr John Bright, Director Research and Development at Aqualinc Research Ltd, and funded by the Fertiliser Association of New Zealand, has shown that it is possible to achieve an average of 27% reduction in N loss. The research examined data from 12 case study dairy farms in Canterbury. Using computer models, including Overseer, the researchers were able to investigate the effects of different irrigation management rules on pasture production and nitrogen leaching. Dr Bright says researchers experimented with a different approach than the current practice of irrigating if the soil moisture content drops below 50% of its plant available water. “We looked at lower irrigation trigger points to see if they provided any benefits. “This meant the soil was allowed to dry out more than usual. We also looked at dif-

ferent irrigation targets – varying the soil moisture content we aim to achieve through irrigation. “We looked specifically at targets that left quite a bit of capacity in the soil to store rainfall should it occur shortly after the irrigation finished. We found that filling it up to 80% of the plant available water capacity and leaving 20% for rainfall was probably the best target level from the point of view of reducing the nitrate leaching substantially while avoiding pasture production losses.” Bright says he was pleasantly surprised by the results. “Before we started the project we didn’t know what the impact would be on pasture production, but this was not compromised. “We were even more surprised by the consequences of changing the trigger level. We found we could use a much lower soil moisture trigger value in spring and in autumn without having any significant effects on pasture production. “This was critical as it allowed the soil to dry out more by delaying irrigation and in-

Call 03 302 8650 info@rrspreading.co.nz 55 Line Road, Methven, 7730, Mid Canterbury.

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Preventing nitrogen loss: Centre pivots and solid set sprinkler systems were found to be the most suitable irrigation methods to reduce nitrogen leaching. creased its capacity to store rainfall.” The research team also deliberately tested target levels that did cause a reduction in pasture production to gauge the limits for irrigation triggers and targets. Centre pivots and solid set sprinkler systems were found to be the most suitable irrigation methods. “About 72% of the irrigated area in Canterbury uses methods that could easily im-

plement these irrigation rules,” Bright says. “The balance of the area would require a range of capital investments to modify them or to replace them to be able to implement these irrigation rules.” Other benefits besides reducing nitrogen loss to water include reducing irrigation water use through improved efficiency and making more effective use of rainfall when it occurs.

CANTERBURY FARMING

August 2021

Ensuring farmers voices are heard Once again Mother Nature has given parts of our region a battering and my thoughts go out to those who have been affected by the recent ﬂooding.

Acland ❚ Kate Beef + New Zealand ❚ Director,Lamb Northern South Island ❚ Some farmers have been hit twice this winter and I urge our rural communities to continue doing what they do so well in supporting those affected. Weather events have come top of on-going regulatory pressures and this frustration was very evident in the huge turnout at Groundswell’s recent ‘Howls of Protest’ nationwide rally. The sheer numbers were an indication of how challenging farmers are finding the pace and scale of the changes being foisted on them and also the level of frustration with some of the impractical rules that have been put forward by the Government that have to be fixed. Most of us are willing to adapt and change when science has shown us that change is needed to improve environmental outcomes – but those changes need to be justifiable, workable and within realistic time frames.

‘

some farmers have been hit twice [by ﬂooding] this winter and I urge our rural communities to continue doing what they do so well in supporting those affected.

Protests draw attention to the issues, but as farmers, we need to own the conversation and we need to have constructive dialogue with policy-makers so we can influence the outcome. At the same time, we have to accept that some of the changes might not be easy or palatable, so it is so important that we are “in the room” to ensure we are getting the most farmer facing and practical outcomes possible. Change is inevitable and we need to be running profitable, thriving farm businesses that support and adapt to change. There are a number of tools and resources available that help farming businesses better understand, monitor, measure and more efficiently

manage their natural and physical resources while front-footing regulation. These include Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s all-encompassing Farm Plan, which is a dynamic ever-evolving tool, and the recently released Greenhouse Gas Calculator. We believe farmers are best-placed to measure and manage their own emissions and managing GHG emissions will be critical for NZ’s future as a trusted provider of sustainable food. This calculator takes farm information and stock numbers and applies science and data to calculate on-farm emissions and sequestration. Developed with input from farmers and meat processing companies, the Calculator can be found on the B+LNZ website and is free and importantly, easy to use. As a sector, we are committed to addressing climate change and this Calculator is part of the red meat sector’s contribution to helping this country meet its climate change commitments through He Waka Eke Noa. Not only will it help farmers understand their emissions, the Calculator recognizes sequestration so farmers can be recognized for the great work they are doing on-farm. The information is secured on the B+LNZ website and while we will report on the number of farmers using the calculator, we will not report on any individual farm’s emissions. A huge thank you to all of those who voted in the recent B+LNZ referendum. The level of support we received gives us a strong mandate to represent our farmers when we are dealing with the policy makers. We are making sure farmers voices are heard loud and clear.

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August 2021 CANTERBURY FARMING

Farmers vote yes on sheep meat and beef levies Farmers have overwhelmingly supported the continuation of the sheepmeat and beef levies in the 2021 sheepmeat and beef levy referendum.

❚ Article supplied by B+LNZ

A proposed increase in the sheepmeat levy from 1 October 2021 was also backed by farmers. The voting showed that 89.8 percent of farmers voted in favour of the sheepmeat levy on a one farmer, one vote basis, with support of 92% on a weighted stock unit basis. It also showed 88.1% of farmers voted in support of the beef levy on a one farmer, one vote basis, with a weighted stock unit basis support of 89.4%. In terms of the proposal to increase the sheepmeat levy from 70 cents to 75 cents, 68.3% voted yes on a one farmer, one vote basis, and 70.4% voted yes on a weighted stock unit basis. Just under 35% of farmers on the electoral roll voted. That equates to 5,295 participants and by livestock represents: 54% of national sheep numbers; 43% of national beef cattle and 16% of national dairy cattle. Beef + Lamb New Zealand chairman Andrew Morrison said the result showed farmers valued the work of B+LNZ.

“Now more than ever, farmers need a strong voice representing their interests domestically and internationally, positioning our product with consumers, and providing them with the support they need on-farm to run more sustainable and profitable businesses,” Morrison said. “We’re very pleased with the result particularly given the amount of farmer concern out there about the wave of regulation coming at them. I’d like to thank everyone who had their say and for giving us a mandate. “Farmers strongly endorsed B+LNZ’s role in advocacy, but we also heard loud and clear from them that there’s a lot of frustration out there about the scale and pace of regulatory change and they want us to fight as hard as we can on their behalf, working more closely with Federated Farmers and DairyNZ in responding to this. I can assure farmers we are taking this on board.” Morrison said the result on the sheepmeat levy increase was also encouraging,. “We’re pleased that farmers have taken the information on board and seen why we need this increase.”

Increase: Farmers have supported an increase in the sheepmeat levy to come into effect from October.

CANTERBURY FARMING

August 2021

Celebrating 40 years of service to the farming community Noble Adams Machinery is in its 40th year of business. by ❚ Advertorial ❚ Noble Adams Machinery The company started back in 1981 by Peter and Mary Noble-Adams and originally included a range of tractors and associated equipment and has progressed into specialising in agricultural spray equipment. Being locally owned and operated we take pride in trying to supply the correct piece of equipment for the job required. We carry a large range of sprayers and spares in our Christchurch warehouse and have an extensive supplier network which means we can often find what you are looking for if we don’t have it on the shelf. Noble Adams are agents for many wellknown spray brands including Croplands, Hardi, Solo, Bertolini, Farmgem, Teejet, Arag and Comet to name a few. Noble Adams Machinery has frequently found that the specifications of a sprayer that a customer may need sometimes falls into the ‘off the shelf’ category. Noble Adams stands by being able to offer the expertise and facilities to manufacture a machine to fit the exact requirements

for our customers to be able to spray accurately, economically and safely. We would like to thank our many loyal customers for the support and business over the past 40 years and look forward to offering high quality spraying solutions for many more years to come.

Noble Adams Machinery sprayers • • • • • • • • • • •

12 Volt Spot Sprayers Backpack Sprayers Deck Mount Sprayers Fire Fighting Sprayers Hand Operated Sprayers & Accessories Linkage Sprayers Small Wheeled Sprayers – 12 Volt Small Wheeled Sprayers – Motorised Spreaders and Seeders Trailed Crop Sprayers Vineyard and Orchard Sprayers.

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Noble Adams Machinery specialises in agricultural spray equipment and has the ability to manufacture a machine to fit the exact requirements of their customers to be able to spray accurately, economically and safely.

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For more on how Noble Adams Machinery can help you visit their website: www.nobleadams.co.nz, or give them a call on 03 349 7862.

August 2021 CANTERBURY FARMING

Research reveals no notable difference between fertiliser application methods There are no significant differences between pasture production achieved using urea applied as a fine particle when compared to a granular form, New Zealand research has shown. supplied by the Fertiliser ❚ Article Association of New Zealand ❚ A study led by Jeff Morton and commissioned by the Fertiliser Association of New Zealand critically examined the results from 22 fertiliser trials, mostly conducted in New Zealand, from as far back as 1954. “We were seeking to find out whether fine particle application fertilisers (FPA) are more effective than solid granular fertilisers in pro-

ducing pasture dry matter,” Morton says. “This was in response to the recent resurgence in FPA, especially in Southland – a method that has been touted as having agronomic and environmental advantages over other fertilisers.” Granular fertiliser is solid, whereas FPA – an application method largely unique to New Zealand – involves grinding the urea, mixing it with water and applying it as slurry. FPA has been claimed to achieve a 40% to 50% high-

Researched: Research shows there are no significant differences between pasture production achieved using urea applied as a fine particle when compared to a granular form. er conversion of nitrogen (N) to pasture dry matter than granular urea. This has been attributed to factors such as a more even distribution and the potential for FPA to absorb N directly through foliage, thereby minimising soil losses. “In the research literature we mostly found no statistically significant difference in pasture dry matter yield when fertilisers were applied in these two different ways. “We also looked at the literature on liquid fertilisers, where the urea is ground and

dissolved in water, and found no difference there either,” Morton says. While two trials showed FPA to work better than granular fertiliser, both studies used mini plots or glasshouse pots, with higher rates of nitrogen. “Our explanation of why it was better in this method of experimentation compared with field trials was that they were pouring a lot of liquid onto a very small area of leaf so it wasn’t similar to what would happen in the field.”

CANTERBURY FARMING

August 2021

Farming support from the sky From spraying to pest management and even help with mustering Christchurch Helicopter Services has much to offer farmers. supplied by Christchurch ❚ Article Helicopter Services ❚

order your fertiliser in 350-800kg bags for application where and when you want.

Christchurch Helicopters are located at Christchurch International Airport, operating from ‘The Heli Centre’ in the Harewood Aviation Park.

Spraying The difference between an excellent job and a mediocre one can quite often come down to the amount of water used in the application of certain chemicals. Generally the more water required, the more expensive it is to apply that chemical e.g. gorse and broom applications. As helicopter operations are inherently expensive, it makes sense to do the job right the first time. That’s why Christchurch Helicopters only employ experienced pilots with farming backgrounds to ensure you get the job done with optimum results.

Sowing and Spreading We specialise in the precision placement of high analysis fertiliser, urea applications and seeding. Using a helicopter enables farmers to target crops at the right time without damage. All you need is a front end loader and to

Mustering Many of the pilot’s here at Christchurch Helicopters have either grown up or owned a farm in their life and this gives them the knowledge and skills on how to work each animal species. We have a range of cost effective helicopters to muster stock in hard to reach locations. If mustering can be done from the ground we can fly shepherds and dogs to various locations to help assist the muster.

Heavy Lifting Using a helicopter to lift equipment to or from a site can deliver huge savings in both time and money. Both big and small items can be transported to sites usually unreachable by land based vehicles. We have a variety of helicopters with a large range of lifting capability up to 1.5 ton on request. Our twin engine aircraft also allows us to operate in builtup areas.

Wilding Pines Wilding pines have been named the most invasive plant species in New Zealand which

From spraying to mustering Christchurch Helicopter services only employ experienced pilots with farming backgrounds to ensure the job gets done with optimum results. requires immediate attention. Christchurch Helicopters has gained years of experience and prides itself in successfully treating these noxious plants in a safe and efficient manner. Boom spraying is the most effective form of application when dealing with large, dense areas of pines. We operate multiple helicopters with boom spraying capabilities to treat large blocks efficiently. Spot spraying is an effective way to cover large, inaccessible blocks quickly. Our trained crew members operate our purpose built spot gun system that applies chemical to the target trees. Our TracMap GPS system records each tree that has chemical applied to for proof of placement and provides the client with valuable data of the block. Christchurch Helicopters can assist in

ground control operations by moving crews and gear into tight inaccessible locations (‘Skid Hopping’). We operate a range of aircraft with basket pods, cargo nets and other equipment to cater for the clients requirements.

Wild Animal Management Christchurch Helicopters provides aerial wild animal management for land owners and environmental protection agencies to protect their land and New Zealand’s native vegetation. We offer various aircraft depending on the operations, such as our Guimbal Cabri G2 for cost effective operations to our MD520N. We perform aerial culling on a wide range of species including Canadian geese, goats, wallabies, pigs and tahr.

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August 2021

CANTERBURY FARMING

Smart spraying saves dollars, makes sense Optimising spray applications will save money on chemicals and do a better job, according to a leading sprayer tester and operator.

❚

Article supplied by Talbot Agriculture

And from what he’s seen, there’s widespread room for improvement in contract and farmer-operator practice. “The sprayer is the most important piece of equipment on an arable farm today,” Jeremy Talbot of Talbot Agriculture said. “The biggest issue is the choice of nozzle. With the same water rate different nozzles do very different things.” Talbot says air-induction nozzles are used far too widely and many operators would do better to use standard flat fan nozzles, or preferably a twin-cap with two flat-fan orifices. “You get an eight-fold increase in the number of drops and four times the deposition on the crop or target weeds, and for most chemicals that’s where they need to be. If they hit the soil they’re wasted.” Glyphosate applications are a classic example. To demonstrate the difference the nozzle can make Talbot set up a SAM sprayer with twin-caps and low drift air induction nozzles and applied the same rate of Glyphosate chemical at one l/ha and water at 160l/ ha through both to a paddock in North Otago.

A good burn-off was achieved with the twincaps, while control through the air induction nozzles failed. “Whether it’s glyphosate, other herbicides, or fungicides: this is why people find they don’t get the same results with the chemicals that the likes of FAR get in their trials. They’re just not getting enough onto the target.” Another problem, particularly where contractors are concerned, is using too little water. Fewer fill-ups means a considerable increase in area that can be covered in a day, hence why contractors are keen to reduce volumes, Talbot says. “But it comes back to coverage. If you’re using less water there are fewer drops per hectare and you’ll get less chemical onto the target.” In Europe, some countries have introduced legislation specifying a minimum of 150 litres/ha of water be used as it’s now accepted low water volumes have hastened the onset of herbicide resistance in certain weed populations.

Drifting: Driving too fast increases drift, which is why some contractors favour low drift nozzles. Photo: Lincoln Agritech

“Only two countries are still using air induction nozzles and very low water rates widely, and that’s Australia and UK.” Australia’s and the UK’s herbicide resistant grassweed problems are well documented and Talbot says it’s only thanks to the diverse rotations on most New Zealand arable farms that similar issues haven’t arisen here yet. “If you have to use air-induction nozzles to prevent drift then I would question whether you should be spraying at all. “If you really must get on and the only way to do so is with low-drift nozzles they you need to increase the rate of water to a 150l/ ha minimum and ensure that at least four bar pressure is used and ensure that a full rate

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of chemical is used just to get the same deposition as a standard flat fan.” Driving too fast increases drift, which is another reason why some contractors favour low drift nozzles, says Talbot. He advocates a maximum of 12kmh, or down to 10kmh if there is drift, slowing to 8-9kmh to turn on headlands. “Spraying should be a smooth, non-stressful job.”

Spray tips • Don’t speed: increases drift, boom bounce, yaw, and in/out problems. • Beware low-drift nozzles: efficacy compromised. • Keep water volume up: 150 litres/ha min. • Twin-cap nozzles help hit both sides of target. • Remove PPE before entering cab. • Right nozzle, speed and volume = less chemical cost.

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CANTERBURY FARMING

August 2021

School leavers inspired to a career in food and fibre More than 150 high school leavers now have a better understanding of careers in New Zealand’s food and fibre sectors, thanks to the Feed Your Future campaign.

❚ by Kent Caddick Feed Your Future is a collaborative career promotion series between GoHort, DairyNZ, Lincoln University and Massey University that encourages high school students to pursue careers in the food and fibre sectors. GoHort Manager, Emma Boase, who supports the national network of Career Progression Managers working to attract people into the horticulture industry said they were really stoked with how the Feed Your Future series has gone. “We had seven events from Whangarei to Invercargill throughout May and June, where we took high school students to visit successful and innovative primary sector businesses,” Boase said. “We had more than 40 young professionals at the events sharing how they got to where they are in the industry,” she said. “Having role models to look up to and being able to see the different pathways to where you can be in five years, is hugely important to school leavers. “For those who don’t have a background in primary industries, these events have been really eye-opening to the opportunities available. “We made sure to include students who hadn’t had experience or exposure to the primary industries, but were open to a career in the sector. “We introduced them to people who had ‘been there and done that’, and could give them a taste of what it would be like working

Insightful: Julian Raine, right, from Oakland Dairies, explains how his milk vending machine works to Nelson high schoolers.

or studying in the primary industries.” Lincoln University Domestic Engagement Manager, Jaime Shone said it was fantastic to interact with the students and have the chance to educate them on the broad range of career possibilities available in the food and fibre sectors. “There’s an increasing demand for university-educated professionals in these areas and many new employment opportunities are

expected to open up in the years to come. “At Lincoln, our programmes are designed with input from employers, so students develop the industr y-specific knowledge and hands-on experience they need to move into great careers as soon as they graduate. “We hope to see many of the Feed Your Future participants studying at Lincoln in the near future,” Shone said.

Adam Shears, a Year 13 student at Mount Hutt College, found the event gave him insights into opportunities in the industry he otherwise would not have had. “It was a very cool event. I loved being able to speak with people who are in the sector and get a perspective of their lives through university and all the opportunities they took to become who and where they are today,” Shears said.

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Wood is Good school programme Funded by the Ministry for Primary Industries and the Forest Growers Levy Trust, the ‘Wood is Good’ programme has extended across New Zealand with 50 sessions planned for primary schools across the regions.

Learning experience: geraldine Primary school students were treated to two fully loaded log trucks parking on their school grounds as part of the Wood is good programme.

supplied by Canterbury ❚ Article ❚ West Coast Wood Council A partnership of forestr y and road transport safety, local forestr y companies bring representatives and a loaded log truck to a primar y school to talk about safety with log trucks on the roads, why we have plantation forests in New Zealand, where those logs have come from, and where they are going. The aim of this program is to increase awareness of children of the benefits that

forests provide in our communities and how our plantation timber is used in our everyday products. Drone flying, book readings, and speaker sessions with local professionals are part of these days. Geraldine Primary School was treated to two fully loaded log trucks parking on their school grounds supplied by Philip Waring Transport along with the Road Safety Truck outdoor classroom provided by the New Zealand Trucking Association. Students are shown log truck safety vid-

eos and given activity booklets to complete along with a fun assembly for the whole school where wooden spot prizes were handed out, along with rolls of toilet paper. Local forestry company Port Blakely sponsored high vis vests for the entire school while sending staff Zac, Mitch and Ash from their team to talk all things forestry while flying a drone across the school. A big thanks to Helen May from Cable Logging ltd who spent her whole day attending classes to explain how logging work in South Canterbury.

Younger students enjoyed book reading from “Fred the Forester”, while older students held forestry class sessions and watching logging footage videos. Port Blakely staff will return to the school to award wooden toys and prizes for the log truck colouring-in competition. Where does toilet paper come from kids?

Follow the “Wood is good” journey across New Zealand. For more go to: www.woodisgood.co.nz or www.facebook.com/woodisgoodnz

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August 2021

Prices stall as China focuses on technology growth

There has been quite a significant turn in export sales prices over the last three weeks. In prior reports I have been indicating China domestic lumber and log prices declining. The net impacts are a turn in sentiment at the retail level at the wharf gate China. It is apparent the bottom-line consumption across the China Eastern Seaboard had turned down. Some of the reasons for this relate to normal seasonality change. But there is also a lot going on with macro and micro economic changes which I cover below. Negotiations for July log sales between New Zealand sellers and China buyers have become very difficult. This situation is best described as a market fundamental commonly referred to a supply/demand 101. Where supply exceeds demand, price will be the blunt instrument that restores the balance. If we take the last three months behaviour of the NZ based big players in this space, then it would not be hard to be critical. Whilst China domestic prices were falling back as far as April, NZ’s finest were in the market continuing to push CFR log prices up. This increased the losses China traders were making between the cost of raw material and the value of the resulting lumber. I gave a foreboding of this last month, it is not rocket science. So, when CFR prices were US$195 per cubic metre and the effect breakeven point for traders was US$165, eventually the market folded its arms and said to NZ, “sorry fel-

las, no more LCs until log prices drop”. Some would have used less kind words. This has now reached standoff status. As at mid-July, there are many ships on their way to China, no LC’s and no understanding of what the prices will be when they get there. In this salutary tale of history repeating, one is left to shake one’s head and contemplate words of unpleasant disposition. A recent stimulus programme announced by the China Government, sends some clear signals which I believe are worthy of note. To quote: “The People’s Bank of China is set to cut the reserve requirement ratio by 50 basis points for all banks, a move that will release around one trillion yuan (US$154 billion) in long-term liquidity into the economy”. The same report goes on further to say and again I quote: “In the short term, the move will boost liquidity-sensitive sectors, such as aerospace and defence, electronics, IT and media, according to UBS”. This report and others should send the shivers down the spine of those involved in construction in China – for example NZ Forest Growers. There is a clear signal here

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stimulus is focussed on technology growth, not construction as it has in the past. Not an immediate concern, but certainly a longer-term concern in terms of pure demand profiling. This would also be a clear signal for NZ Forestry Inc to get itself in to a small room, lock the door, with no one allowed out until some sensible futuristic market development strategy is sorted out. Alas, I strongly suggest we continue to draw breath in the meantime. At the NZ wharf gate sales level, we have seen some unsurpassed wide pricing scenarios. For those who ignored the signals and set wharf gate prices based on June settlements, I am assuming now will be having some very unpleasant conversations with their bank managers. For those, like ourselves, who saw the writing on the wall, prices have been set at where the approximate breakeven point for

China wholesalers would be. In reality this brings prices down NZ$12-$14 per cubic metre at the wharf gate which still leaves us in the top 95 percentile of the market of the last two years. Our domestic sawmillers are once again the shinning beacon on the sea of uncertainty. Prices and demand are both strong. Lumber shortages to the NZ construction sector are widening with no slow down on the horizon at time of writing. My very big concern here is if NZ Forestry Inc does not get the export log prices matter sorted, I can foresee logging crews parking up in August and that will not be good for NZ sawmills As always people, please remember the thoroughly important message, “It remains, as always, fundamentally important, no matter the challenges, the only way forward for climate, country and the planet, is to get out there and plant more trees”.

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August 2021

Optimizing soil health

❚ with Peter Burton A low-cost option

Clover’s job: Carbon is most rapidly sequestered under permanent grazed pasture provided the essential nitrogen component is supplied by the bacteria on the nodules of clover.

Dr Graham Sparling in his lecture to a packed theatre in 2004 stated, “It’s a sobering thought that our entire high-tech world is ultimately supported by life in the top 20cm of the soil”. Dr Sparling, then a leading Landcare Research scientist, went on to say that the soil biological process of denitrification is the only process whereby we can get reactive nitrogen from the soil and water back into benign nitrogen gas. In essence without a healthy functioning soil civilization as we know it steadily unravels. Human health is only as good as the food we eat and that is dependent on soils functioning as they are designed to do. The fact that excess nitrogen is entering groundwater is a sign that the filtering effect provided by soil held carbon is compromised and inputs must be reduced if further degradation is to be avoided. Although there is now a limit of 190kgN/ ha/year of synthetic N able to be applied, that alone is unlikely to have a marked effect on the losses to groundwater, particularly in regions with shallow sandy soils. The answer to the issue is increase the amount of carbon being sequestered and limit the quantity of synthetic N applied. Carbon is most rapidly sequestered under permanent grazed pasture provided the essential nitrogen component is supplied by the bacteria on the nodules of clover. Losses of N to groundwater can then be

markedly reduced without limiting total farm output. A key to a healthy functioning soil is its ability to breathe. Air needs to be able to enter freely and gases, primarily CO2 released. In an ideal state, soils contain 25% air and 25% moisture with soil crumb dominating the top 20cm. Carbon dioxide being heavier than air stays close to the surface of the soil stimulating plant growth, and it is plants continuously in a rapid growth phase that have the greatest requirement. In order to ensure plants are continuously growing grazing animals are required and their treading pressure rapidly incorporates dung and old root matter effectively and efficiently. During winter deep pugging during prolonged wet periods is best avoided, although whether it’s best to have a smaller mess over a larger area, or a larger mess in a confined area is debatable. Blackened soil behind animals grazing crops is not necessarily a concern. When pasture is re-established either by direct drilling or after light cultivation there will be a net gain in soil carbon. Animal feet necessarily cause soils to

compress. A healthy biologically active soil rapidly regains its natural form, and it is only when that doesn’t occur that compaction has occurred. It’s often been stated that it’s not possible to change soil biology, however research here and overseas shows that not to be a fact. We know that the addition of lime to soil increases both the activity and number of beneficial earthworms. Earthworms positively impact physical structures and where they proliferate there

is a corresponding lift in the numbers of all other beneficial soil dwellers. Lime also alters soil pH and a pH of close to 6.2 provides the environment where nutrient is most available for plant uptake. Golden Bay dolomite is a highly valuable resource, well known to intensive dairy farmers for its unparalleled ability to limit calcium/magnesium related disorders during spring. Thirty years of experience indicates that unless soils are severely deficient a rate of 200kg/ha delivers outstanding results and it may be applied whenever practicable. Dolomite is also a well-known soil conditioner markedly improving water infiltration encouraging the recovery of soil damaged during winter. Applications of 500kg/ha or more calculated from soil tests and based on ‘balancing’ the soil are unlikely to provide a better outcome than 200kg/ha applied annually. For more information contact Peter on 0800 843 809.

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Visa extension offers some certainty The Government’s decision to extend Essential Skills visas will provide some welcome certainty for farmers and employees who have their futures at stake, according to DairyNZ.

❚ by Kent Caddick From July, Essential Skills Visa holders will be able to apply for a longer visa, enabling them to remain in their current role. The application process for Essential Skills visas will also be simplified for workers remaining in current roles. DairyNZ said many workers and their employers have been living under a cloud of uncertainty since Covid-19 border closures. DairyNZ chief executive Dr Tim Mackle said the changes are a positive as they will help resolve short-term pressure on some farms. “It’s great to see the Government is listening and recognises the pressures dairy farmers and other sectors are under,” Mackle said. “However, it’s important to note this decision doesn’t add more workers into our workforce, so there’s still a gap between what we have and what we actually need. It’s about helping us hold onto the valuable migrant workers we already have.” Mackle said since the closure of the border due to Covid-19, farmers have been crying out for dairy farm staff, with almost 50% of farmers reporting unfilled vacancies on farms. “There are plenty of jobs on farms for Kiwis and migrants but at this time the reality is, not enough Kiwis are applying for jobs. This is despite a recent sur vey showing 87% of farmers had made changes to make their business more attractive to staff, so we need our valued workers from overseas as well.” Mackle said while that’s a positive step, more needs to be done to ensure sufficient staffing on farms throughout the country for

Extension: DairyNZ says the decision to extend Essential skills visas will provide some welcome certainty for farmers and employees.

the wellbeing of staff and farmers, and animal welfare. “This is where our wonderful migrant workers come in. Dairy farmers highly value our overseas workers who become part of our local communities and many help train Kiwis to work on farms.” DairyNZ and Federated Farmers are working together with the Government to seek further solutions to the staff shortages. “We still have a significant shor tage of skilled workers to fill the many vacancies on dair y farms up and down the countr y. We look for ward to continuing our conversations with the Government on longer-term solutions.” A key solution would be to enable the many migrants waiting for residency to have

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that status confirmed, giving their families and employers a solid base to build on. “We’re also calling on the Government to enable dairy farming families who have been split because of Covid-19 to reunite in New Zealand,” Mackle said. The Meat Industry Association is also pleased at the changes saying it will help ease some of the pressure on the red meat sector’s migrant workforce. “Without this visa extension, 100 of our 250 halal butcher workforce faced losing their right to stay in New Zealand next year,” MIA chief executive Sirma Karapeeva, said. “These roles are critical to supporting employment for thousands of other employees in the red meat sector, mainly in the regions,

and the Government has clearly listened to our concerns,” Karapeeva said. “Without halal butchers, there is a real potential that the overall value of each animal processed is reduced, meaning less revenue for companies, farmers and the New Zealand economy. Halal processing generates over $3.3 billion of value-add halal certified meat products. “However, we still face ongoing challenges in recruiting enough halal butchers. New Zealand has a relatively small Muslim population and this means that the industry must recruit from overseas to make up for the shortfall. “That’s why we’re asking the Government to consider a more permanent solution that would facilitate the entry of migrant halal butchers such as a special visa category for halal butchers.” The Government has also announced the new Accredited Employer Work Visa, due to come into effect on 1 November, will be delayed until the middle of next year due to the new arrangements.

CANTERBURY FARMING

DAIRY

August 2021

Providing the basic needs

❚ with Fred Hoekstra

If you have attended a hoof trimming workshop with me or you have been to some of my talks regarding lameness you will have noticed that I speak a lot on the importance of providing the cow with her basic needs.

One of those basic needs is rest. It is incredible how important rest is for a warm-blooded organism. When I was younger, I got quite annoyed with that fact. I wanted to get things done but I couldn’t work through the night even though I tried a couple of times. The body can’t function properly if it doesn’t get time to rest. I heard someone talk about that on the radio a little while ago. She was saying that if we starve ourselves of food for seven days, we will be quite weak and very hungry. However, we will fully recover from that. When we starve ourselves of sleep for seven days, we will get close to dying and we won’t fully recover. That shows you how important resting time is. It is crucial to the proper functioning of the body. Research has shown that an average cow needs 12 hours of resting time per day, and that cows who get at least 14 hours of rest per day perform better. It is estimated that a cow produces 1 to 1.5 litres less milk for every hour of reduced resting time. The long-term effects of a lack of resting time are a reduced immune system and laminitis. Providing enough resting time is a huge challenge on a pasture-based farming sys-

Rest needed: Cows which get at least 14 hours of rest per day perform better, both in terms of milking and health.

tem. It is nearly impossible to do that right on our farms. The first cows are usually all right but the last ones certainly are not. It is also the last cows which are the problem cows. This a big reason why cows function so much better in a OAD or a 16-hour milking system. They produce less milk that way, but they have a lot less problems as well. So, if resting time is so important, we need to put a lot of effort in to getting it as right as possible and that starts in the winter.

When we have cows on winter crops, they lay down for less time than when they are on pasture, especially when we get as much rain as what we have had this winter. Basically, we are setting our cows up for a difficult year ahead. I expect the hoof trimmers in New Zealand will be to be very busy this season because of our winter. I recently went to a farm in the North Island where the cows were in compost barns

over the winter. It was a comfortable place for them, and the cows enjoyed lots of laying down time, but this setup is creating a different challenge. The problem is that cows need to eat as well. This farm had a feed pad about 50 metres away from the barns. They let the different mobs onto the feed pad at certain times of the day. This way the cows got everything they needed right? Unfortunately, it is a bit more complicated than that. In this system the cows are totally controlled in their behaviour. They eat when they are being told to and they rest when they are being told to rest. Do you see a problem? It is great to provide your cows with the shelter, but it needs to be done in such a way that a cow can eat and drink whenever she wants and lay down whenever she wants. This means that she should have access to go to the feed pad and the barn all the time. This may mean that the infrastructure needs to be modified. If you are planning to build a barn or you already have a barn and want to discuss the issues, I would be happy to talk with you regarding that. Just give us a call or send me an email: fhoekstra@dhi.ac.nz.

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Evolving dairy industry sparks changes to dairy trainee category The New Zealand dairy industry is constantly evolving which has led to changes to the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards programme.

❚ by Kent Caddick The age range for the Dairy Trainee category is now 18 years to 30 years with a maximum of three years’ experience from the age of 18, and the online entry form has been simplified. Additional conditions for visa entrants have been removed with no minimum length of time in New Zealand required. The modifications to the Dairy Trainee age range recognises that traditional pathways into the dairy industry have altered. “According to PrimaryITO, the average age of a dairy trainee in now 32 years and we are seeing many career changers joining the ranks,” NZDIA general manager Robin Congdon said. “These changes acknowledge the Awards Programme as a learning platform which recognises trainees’ achievements, drives personal development, allows them to grow industry networks, and use the programme to develop skills along the way.” NZDIA Executive Dairy Trainee member Raewyn Hills said there was a strong desire to enhance the judging to be more educational, fun and engaging. “We have revamped the process and the preliminary round will have a Skills Day with a practical focus which will appeal to all,” Hills said. “We will also give on-the-spot feedback and training on how to complete the practical tasks on the day meaning entrants will come away having learnt something rather than just judged.” The new format will also allow more train-

Training: National Dairy trainee finalists after their final day of judging, before heading off on the study tour.

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this is invaluable experience for the trainees and develops their communication and interview skills. Raewyn Hills NZDIA Executive Dairy Trainee

ees to go through the programme in less time, which means less pressure on volunteer regional teams and judges. The preliminary round of practical judging will produce six Dairy Trainee finalists from each region, who will progress to a face-toface interview round, which will also include a large verbal practical element to assess general farming knowledge. “This is invaluable experience for the trainees and develops their communication and interview skills,” Hills said. Regional winners will continue to the National programme which includes a study tour, practical testing, and the National Awards dinner.

Hills said there was a real buzz about the changes. “We feel they will reinvigorate an already fun experience and our regional teams and judges are excited to get the 2022 programme underway.” The New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards are supported by national sponsors DeLaval, Ecolab, Federated Farmers, Fonterra, Honda, LIC, Meridian Energy and Ravensdown, along with industry partner DairyNZ. Registrations of Interest for the 2022 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards can be made via www. dairyindustryawards.co.nz with entries opening on October 1, 2021.

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Synlait recognise top dairy farmers Canterbury dairy farmers were to the fore in the national awards section of the recent annual Synlait Dairy Honours Awards which recognise best in class dairy farming.

❚ by Kent Caddick This year Synlait handed out four national awards along with eight regional awards at their Synlait Winter Farmer events in the Waikato and Canterbury. Canterbury dairy farmers took out two of the national awards with Bruce and Susan Turpie of Kolmar Dairies receiving the Doing Milk Differently Award 2020/2021, while Kieran McCall took out the Quality by Design Award. The Doing Milk Differently Award recognises farmers who demonstrate Kiwi ingenuity for solving a problem or pursuing a new opportunity. It recognises innovative spirit and ideas. The judges said Bruce and Susan Turpie were recognised with the Doing Milk Differently Award for their successful and innovative approach to farming. “Kolmar Dairies Ltd is truly the epitome of what it means to Do Milk Differently,” the judges said. “Over five to six years Bruce and his team moved towards calving four times a year to milk year-round. They have an intensive operation with two separate herds split between barn and paddock and rotated each 12-hour period. “This system allows them to maximise feed and effectively get cows off paddock in winter. This results in high production and strong pasture health and resilience. “Additionally, with a herd of over 1600 cows, Bruce and his team have achieved zero bobbies. This is an incredible achievement. This has involved the use of Wagyu beef genetics and set semen selection, meaning non-replacement calves are able to be raised and sold into the beef industry. “Another notable aspect of this operation is the high staff numbers. Bruce has 15 team-members, with high staff retention. This can be attributed to an inclusive, posi-

Design quality: Canterbury’s Kieran McCall was awarded the Quality by Design Award which recognises processes or initiatives which have been implemented and generate value on farm.

tive culture. Aspects such as staff-housing in Methven ensure employees are a part of the community, and cross-training opportunities mean staff are further developed in skills beyond their core roles.” The Quality by Design Award, which went to Canterbury’s Kieran McCall, recognises processes or initiatives that have been implemented and generate value on farm. McCall has been a certified Lead With Pride supplier since 2015 and was the Supreme Lead With Pride Award winner in 2019. The judges said McCall had been dedicated to collaborating with Synlait and FarmIQ to develop Lead With Pride Live into an on-farm data collection and management tool that will be as usable and efficient as possible. “In the design stages, his input consisted of the initial blue-print concept depicting what a good tool would be from the perspective of a farmer. He has worked alongside Synlait and FarmIQ right through the development process, going above and beyond what

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is typically expected for system testing, using real anticipated farmer experience. “He has patiently tested the limits and breaking points of this tool, to ensure it is one that will work well for farmers. He has also been involved in developing the communication methods especially in relation to re-phrasing LWP tasks or requirements, so these are more easily able to be deciphered and implemented on-farm.” Sharemilking at Midway Dairies Ltd with owners Graham and June McCall has allowed

Kieran to bring dairy farming practicalities to the forefront in the designing and further development of the LWP Live dashboard the judges said. “The result is a tool that over time will effectively reduce the length of audits and the complexity of managing the LWP requirements for farmers. It also takes us a step closer to our vision of Lead With Pride helping farmers farm.” The two national award winners from outside Canterbury were: Heather and Tony Edgar and family of Heathton Farms (Waikato) who received the For a Healthier World Award, which recognises farmers who demonstrate a strong commitment to protecting and enhancing their environment; and Glen Ashford and Shelley Lawson of Kaimai Dairy Farm Ltd (Waikato) who took out the Kotahitanga Award, which is focused on the all-important people side of dairy farming, and it recognises the team spirit of a farming operation. Canterbury Regional award winners: Supreme Lead with Pride Award (2019/2020): Henry and Jess Mason of Terracostosa Farm; Supreme Lead with Pride Award (2020/2021): Neville and Kerrie Hammond with contract milkers Gavin and Becs Phimister of Phimister Farming Lt; Best Milk Quality Award: Ruurd and Rachel Lieuwes of Lieuwes Abbott Ltd; Best Milk Quality Award (weighted by farm size): Stuart and Margaret Holland of Holland Farming Ltd; Lowest Somatic Cell Count 2021: Peter and Linda Rollinson of L & P Dairies Ltd.

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August 2021

CANTERBURY FARMING

WATER & IRRIGATION

Explaining Integrated Farm Plans

I’ve recently been asked by farmer clients if I could explain what Integrated Farm Planning is and what it means for them, so I thought I’d share this more widely.

Andrew Curtis ❚ by Water ❚ Srategies The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), in partnership with sector bodies and regional councils, recently (end of May) released a guide to Integrated Farm Planning. However, there still seems to be confusion as to what it is and the value it could provide to farmers and growers. To be clear, Integrated Farm Planning is not a regulatory requirement itself, but it does capture regulatory aspects within it. This can create confusion. For examples, the Freshwater module of an Integrated Farm Plan is already a requirement for most farms in Canterbury and will soon be a requirement across New Zealand; sector bodies have signed-up to all farms having a Greenhouse Gas module as part of their He Waka Eke Noa climate change commitments; there are Health and Safety, Employment, Biosecurity, and Animal Welfare regulations that underpin each of these modules within an Integrated Farm Plan. Instead, an Integrated Farm Plans provides a framework to bring together all the different aspects of the farming business to help better understand and improve per-

formance, while ensuring compliance. An Integrated Farm Plan is effectively a comprehensive farm business plan, where financial, regulatory, social, and environmental goals and requirements are brought together; the risks and opportunities to the farm business identified; and actions put in place to address or realise these, over-time. Most farms already have a business plan, but these do not always cover the whole farm business operation. The Integrated Farm Planning project has provided useful information to assist farmers and growers better undertake a whole of farm business assessment. For example, the guide provides key principles for health and safety, employment and well-being, animal welfare and biosecurity. All farms should read and consider these as part of their future business planning as they make much sense. As mentioned already, each individual farm business has discretion as to whether they develop an Integrated Farm Plan or not, and who they involve in helping them with this – it is not a regulatory requirement. However, there is a strong correlation between top performing farms and the adoption of a comprehensive business planning approach, that often brings in subject matter experts (as appropriate) to help develop or review them. The value of an Integrated Farm Planning is the opportunities that may identified through the process alongside ensuring compliance. If you would like help taking your farm planning to the next level, give the team at Water Strategies a call. We’ve a team of farm systems specialist that are known for their skills in thinking beyond freshwater compliance.

Plan ahead: An Integrated Farm Plans provides a framework to bring together all the different aspects of the farming business to help better understand and improve performance, while ensuring compliance.

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August 2021

Struggling to find a silver lining

Despite having skipped last month for a couple of reasons, my comments regarding below average rainfall and “when will it rain” from May produced some text messages to me regarding the end of May rainfall.

❚ with tony Daveron Then the recent rainfall, while sparing Canterbury, emphasised the volatility of the current weather patterns we are living with now. Plan Change 9 hearing in Hawkes Bay followed by a frustrating week at Environment Court for the Ngaruroro Water Conservation Order got in the way of the June deadline. Environment Court was unbelievably frustrating – required by the judge to be present, waiting callup to give evidence, preparing supplementary evidence and then being advised by the court at 5pm Thursday “it actually didn’t have any questions of us.” Too late to catch the last plane out of Napier so had to wait till Friday to return to Christchurch. For my clients, an expensive waste of time. Then I had set aside a week to “clear” my desk before finally getting a hip replacement – no messing around from the surgeon call up, rather a cancellation meant I jumped the queue on the day. NIWA warned in their May to July seasonal outlook that “most of the country could expect rainfall at or below average levels for their region” and that “It’s possible that long dry spells continue over the next three months”. Phew, didn’t the end of May put paid to that prediction in Canterbury? Then a second extreme rainfall event in Buller/Marlborough) completely “buried” the outlook. The two extreme rainfall events have resulted in serious infrastructure and land damage, and personal loss. It is hard to find anything like a silver lining to these rainfall events. However, in Canterbury end of May and the 60-70mm since then has resulted in a huge recharge of groundwater. Observation bore BX23/0623 on Aylesbury Road shows the downward plunge of groundwater levels since August 2019 has been reversed. If recharge continues at the current rate the level will be close to the maximum recorded in August. We will be well supplied with groundwater for 2021-22 season. Winter, surgery and getting walking again has allowed time to catchup on some reading. About the time of the May rainfall event, I tucked away a really interesting article on Stuff – interactives.stuff.co.nz/2021/06/re-

Replenished: Observation bore BX23/0623 on Aylesbury Road shows the downward plunge of groundwater levels since August 2019 has been reversed.

wilding-project-nz-braided-rivers Then event in Buller and Marlborough reminded me to read it in more detail. As I did it became a deja vu moment because in a previous life I had carried out research back in the mid-80s on the braided Ohau River while the Upper Waitaki power scheme was being constructed. While the article concentrates on the Rangitata River flood of 2019 when the south branch was reactivated, it is entirely relevant to the Canterbury floods in May and now Buller/Marlborough. We’ve attempted to “control” these braided rivers with stop banks and straightening out reaches. Braided rivers are complicated, dynamic, powerful and destructive, and they are forever seeking to recreate their path to the sea. So back to our Ohau River experiments where, thanks to Ministry of Works bulldozers, we “forced” and confined the river toward and around a 2m diameter bridge caisson in the middle of the riverbed. Lake Ruataniwha then provided the “100-year” flood flow so we could measure the development of scour around the caisson. Within the duration of that flood flow the river had redesigned itself - back to its braided nature and not always was our caisson

left in the main channel for the next experiment. When one looks at the Rangitata flood, the May flood and in particularly the Ashburton River, and recently in the Wairau River in Marlborough, one has to be in awe of the power and intrigue of these braided river beasts.

What is a little scary is the warning from climate scientists like Jim Salinger and James Renwick; “we are loading the dice towards heavy rainfall events by increasing the temperature”. Given their cautioning of expected impacts of climate change, will this make the rivers more powerful than ever?

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Positive market tone welcome Rob Cochrane ❚ with Wool Procurement ❚ PGG Wrightson WoolManager, ❚

July 8 marked the beginning of the 2021-22 wool selling season when the Napier wool auction room burst into life with a strong wool market tone, a mere 8 days after the Christchurch wool auction room fell silent at around mid-day on June 30 signaling the end of the 2020-21 season. What happened to “the good old days” when there were no auctions scheduled during July?

The positive market tone generated at the June 30 South Island wool auction was followed by another buoyant South Island auction on July 15 where most wool offered for sale was cleared to the export trade, with only around 6% of the offering passed-in below grower reserve prices. The very good selection of wool types, including Merino, Halfbred and Crossbred, was greeted with enthusiasm by a full bench of buyers representing all global wool processors, and values for most types improved considerably compared to the previous auction. It was obvious however, that best quality wools were those most sought after and, although many of the poorer types also sold well above previously ruling values, percentage increases for the best quality wools were

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quoted as stronger by up to 15%. A week later, on July 22 and in Napier, another good range of Crossbred wool types was embraced by enthusiastic exporters and, by the final fall of the auctioneer’s gavel, an almost 100% clearance had been achieved with a further up to 5% improvement in prices for selected crossbred types recorded. At time of writing, major South Island auction brokers were busily compiling catalogues containing a very good selection of wool types to be offered on July 29. Due to recent market improvement, a range of old seasons’ wool (mainly crossbred fleece) which had been held on-farm by growers for the past year or longer in protest of an appallingly low wool market, had come forward for sale expecting to give exporters another good opportunity to purchase types to suit most wool processor customers. Many of the old season wools, while visually ‘stale’ from their time packed in bales, were generally in good order, particularly those

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Positive: the 2021-22 wool selling season has opened with a strong wool market tone.

which were obviously ‘bone dry’ when shorn a year or more earlier. New season pre-lamb shorn Crossbred full-length fleece and second-shear types were in brilliant order. A particularly good range of Crossbred secondshear types from both Otago and Canterbury contained in the PGG Wrightson catalogue, drew considerable interest from the wider export trade. Halfbred and Corriedale wool types catalogued for July 29 drawn from Otago, Can-

terbury and Marlborough were generally very well grown, of exceptionally good colour and with very good tensile strength, despite many having experienced tough growing conditions reflected by the various degrees of vegetable matter contamination. Merino wool types offered during late June and early July at the Christchurch auction, saw fine wool buyers fiercely contesting a bidding war to ‘buy at best’ with several lines selling to extreme. A particularly attractive extra-fine clip containing wools with test results ranging from between approximately 14 and 16 microns offered by PGG Wrightson on June 30 commanded strong attention from buyers representing Eastern Europe, Western Europe, Scandinavia, India and Australasia. As the Crossbred wool market has improved, so have the chances for growers to recover associated harvesting, freight and selling costs and achieve positive financial return. Watch this space. That’s my view.

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CANTERBURY FARMING August 2021

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Price of venison still at bottom There won’t be a spring in the step of deer farmers this September.

Venison finishers in February: Prices for venison peak in spring each year, but spring prices this year will, for the second year in a row, be unsustainably low. that are Covid-safe, particularly retail and online in North America and to a smaller extent, summer retail in Europe. “In China, which has grown rapidly to become our third-largest market, we are exploring all channels, including hospitality, as well as the different cuisine styles.” He says that between DINZ and the five major marketing companies, close to $1.5 million will be spent this year on market development for venison. “We have five innovative and enthusiastic companies that have a vision of venison being a key part of their future business success. They know that prices to farmers need to increase markedly if their visions are going to be achieved,” Moffat says.

“The companies are exploring a many opportunities and while not every one of their projects will be successful, some will. And when you look at the size of the markets they are working in, it will only take one or two successes for the industry’s fortunes to change quite dramatically.” In the meantime, Moffat says, the current economics of venison production are really tough for farmers with a passion for deer. “Many of them will be reflecting on the fact that sheep, beef and velvet have also been through cycles when prices have been depressed. Taking a long-term view and spreading risk across several income streams is a strategy that has served many of them well over the generations.”

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Prices for their venison animals during the traditional spring game season are expected to be only a little more than last year, when prices for limited volume contracts peaked at not much more than $7 a kilogram, which is a figure that’s considered unsustainable in the long-term. “In the last few years we have seen venison prices to farmers peak at $11 a kilogram and fall to their current level – around $5.50 a kilogram. “This is a much higher level of volatility than we have seen in decades and reflects the impact of Covid on restaurant sales world-wide,” Deer Industry NZ (DINZ) chief executive Innes Moffat says. A small consolation for farmers is that the contracts on offer from marketers this year are likely to be for larger volumes than in 2020 and are based on guaranteed minimum prices. “This means average prices across all venison animals this spring may be higher than they appear at first glance, but still well below where they need to be.” Moffat says slaughter figures and Statistics NZ farm survey data shows that many farmers are culling hinds and keeping an increased number of velvetting stags. “But there are some who see a crisis as an opportunity. So we also know of a number of farmers who are increasing their breeding

hind numbers in the belief that good times lie ahead.” Arguments in favour of this strategy include the huge efforts that marketers are making to diversify markets as well as the channels within existing markets. As one marketer said recently, there’s a real risk for marketers that venison demand could exceed supply in the not too distant future. “It’s easy to be wise in hindsight but there is now universal recognition that the industry had too many eggs in the hospitality basket. When restaurants across the globe were closed by Covid our marketers were left with very few customers,” Moffat says. “Even now, restaurant demand is fragile, especially in northern Europe where the Delta variant is taking off. Prices for the chilled season are conservative, but because of the rapid vaccine roll-out and better-than-expected demand last game season, chefs are being more optimistic with volumes that they were last year.” In the last decade the deer industry has achieved major success with the diversification of markets geographically. Demand creation in North America led to it overtaking Germany as the largest year-round market for chilled venison. “Unfortunately successful market diversification has been no protection against Covid. Pandemics ignore geography,” Moffat says. “Lesson learnt, the industry now has a major focus on building demand in channels

Carcass weight

❚ by Trevor Walton

August 2021

CANTERBURY FARMING

August 2021

2022 Subaru Forester SUV enhances its appeal Subaru’s Forester range has received a mid-life makeover for the 2022 model, which is due to arrive on New Zealand shores in late September.

❚ Article supplied by Subaru NZ

Subaru’s mid-sized SUV, the Forester, was named the New Zealand Car of the Year in 2019, and earlier this year, Subaru added to the Forester range with the launch of the rugged Forester X Sport. Subaru of New Zealand’s Managing Director Wallis Dumper said the 2022 Forester is simply more of a good thing. “Over the years we’ve watched our capable Forester climb the sales ranks and after the game-changing, new generation was launched in 2018, its sales ascended close to our top-selling Subaru Outback.” Subaru’s 16 Authorised Subaru Centres will offer a five model Forester line-up, which includes the self-titled Forester, X Sport, Premium, e-Boxer Hybrid and Premium e-Boxer Hybrid variants. The award-winning SUV’s front end has been refreshed with revised headlights, fog lights, front bumper and grille treatment for the 2022 model. Among the other new additions are added features to the Subaru EyeSight crash avoidance technology, enhanced suspension and off-road technology for increased driver con-

fidence, as well as a long list of cosmetic refinements. Added to Forester’s suite of EyeSight features are: lane centring function, lane departure prevention and autonomous emergency steering. Retuned front suspension coil springs and dampers improve ride comfort, steering responsiveness and handling, while the new aluminium engine mount bracket reduces vibrations and noise. For more challenging All-Wheel Drive terrain, X-Mode is also revised, with the ability to automatically re-engage once the vehicle speed drops to 35 km/h or less, while revised Hill Descent Control improves vehicle control speed. Forester variants equipped with the Driver Monitoring System also gain gesturecontrolled temperature adjustment for the air-conditioning, a new feature for Subaru that enables drivers to adjust the temperature via a simple hand motion. This will be the first Subaru model to debut this new technology. “We’ve never had greater demand for Subaru SUVs and along with our 2021 Sub-

Revamped: Among the new additions are added features to the subaru Eyesight crash avoidance technology, and enhanced suspension and offroad technology for increased driver confidence.

Makeover: the Forester’s front end has been refreshed with revised headlights, fog lights, front bumper and grille treatment for the 2022 model. aru Outback, the current generation Forester sales are booming,” Dumper said. “The Forester is supremely capable and really is a great family car that offers genuine All-Wheel Drive flexibility unrivalled by most medium SUVs on the market.” For improved driver vision in all variants, other than the entry model Forester, Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB) is updated to an array head lamp system. An 8-inch touchscreen is now standard across the range – upgrading the Forester, and Forester e-Boxer Hybrid models, which previously had 6.5-inch screens.

Elsewhere in the cabin, an updated instrument panel design is introduced in Forester X Sport and Forester Premium. Outside, Forester Premium and Forester Premium e-Boxer Hybrid feature new alloy wheel designs. Forester X Sport is distinguished by a circular fog light design featuring six LED lights. This variant joins the Forester Premium and the e-Boxer Hybrid and Forester Premium eBoxer Hybrid in receiving updated rear bumper lower cladding. Forester Premium and both the Hybrid variants also have a revised silver roof rail finish.

August 2021

CANTERBURY FARMING

Government needs to get real about decarbonisation The Government needs a clearer position on transport decarbonisation and to be more realistic about the societal impacts while reducing emissions.

supplied by ❚ Article ❚ Road Transport Forum That’s according to Road Transport Forum (RTF) chief executive Nick Leggett. “While recognising the considerable work done by Ministry of Transport Te Manatu Waka (MoT) on Hikina te Kohupara – Kia mauri ora ai te iwi Transport Emissions: Pathways to Net Zero by 2050, in its submission the RTF says the Government’s approach is confusing, creates uncertainty in the freight sector, and will increase transport costs, which they should be honest about” Leggett said.

“On one hand the Government tells us the market should respond to the immediate supply chain issues caused, in part, by its long-term border closure,” Leggett says. “On the other hand, in this paper we see suggestions of government interventions in the supply chain that we can only describe as draconian. “The Government is in no position to dictate how and when individuals and businesses choose to move their freight and household goods. Government officials do not have the expertise to examine payload efficiencies, nor should they be interfering

in normal market forces that will inherently drive efficiencies. “We have commented in our submission that the Government’s approach to encouraging and supporting transport innovation that supports emissions reductions lacks tangible action and creates an environment of uncertainty in our sector. “We believe the Government should refocus its efforts and provide support to industry wide and sector led initiatives, rather than its tendency to develop its own ideas or support niche products. “New Zealand is largely a technology taker and the vast majority of expertise on the feasibility and viability of transport innovation lies within the market and transport sector leadership groups, not with Government.” Leggett said in their view, transport costs will unavoidably increase and those cost impacts will not be shared equally. “We recommend that the government be

much more realistic on the likely impacts to society while reducing emissions, and that they substantiate with this an evidence base of costs versus benefits – a principle sadly lacking in this paper. “We believe the freight market is customer driven and ultimately, the customer, whether in New Zealand or in our export markets, will decide on price, convenience and/ or time, and what is the best mode of transport for their freight. “Government interventions to advantage one transport mode over another – in this case trying to force freight onto rail - inevitably creates unnecessary additional costs and lower overall economic prosperity, because it removes the choice to use the most cost-efficient freight solution. “The Government’s continued discussion about modal share and shifting freight to rail or coastal shipping is irrational and a nonsense.”

CANTERBURY FARMING

August 2021

All howling together The Groundswell protest, for anyone still living that deeply under their rock, is about New Zealand farmers standing up for unworkable regulations.

❚ by solis Norton

Quad bike safety

Quad bikes are involved in approximately 28% of all work-related farm deaths, but in most cases death and injury can be prevented they aren’t part of the job.

❚ Article supplied by WorkSafe NZ

Always wear a helmet

Riders must be trained/ experienced enough to do the job

Helmets can be the difference between walking away from an accident and suffering a permanent, life-changing brain injury.

• Before anyone rides your quad bikes assess their skills. • If they need training the best option is a skills course. • For information on accredited training providers visit: NZQA or call 0800 697 296 or contact your local quad bike dealer and ask about courses in your area.

Don’t let kids ride adult quad bikes

Choose the right vehicle for the job • When choosing the right vehicle for the job pay close attention to what your quad bike owner’s manual says about carrying passengers. • Most manufacturers’ manuals say passengers should not be carried. • Also consider the maximum towed and carried load limits for your quad bike.

• Quad bike manufacturers set minimum ages for using their bikes based on the age when young people have sufficient strength, body weight and mental ability to master the safe riding techniques. • On all adult-sized quad bikes (over 90cc) sold in New Zealand that age is 16 or older.

More safety tips • Keep quad bikes maintained in a safe condition. • Take care on slopes and rough terrain – don’t exceed the capabilities of the bike. • Don’t do tasks that interfere with safe riding – keep both hands on the bike, eyes on the ground in front.

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The ‘Howl of protest’ sent them en masse in tractors and utes throughout the country. Frustration at the simply impossible ambitions of the Government for agriculture poured out. These howls of protest are rising elsewhere, in some interesting places. One in particular, with a pommy accent, is from the UK Natural History Museum. This prestigious venue aims to inspire love of the natural world and unlock the big issues facing humanity. Much like farming really it’s big. The equivalent of New Zealand’s entire population visit every year. Why would it be howling too? Like kiwi farmers, it is frustrated at the government’s emissions ambitions. The UK Committee on Climate Change (much the same as ours) concluded in 2019 that, and I quote: “Net zero is necessary, feasible and cost effective” (much the same as ours). But they’ve only considered the dollars, not the resources. The museum’s team have some great facts about these resources to change all cars in the UK to electric by 2050. Just cars, not trucks. It would require twice the global annual production of cobalt, nearly the entire world production of neodymium, most of the world’s lithium production, and 12% of the world’s copper production.

The government’s pledge is supply only electric vehicles from 2035 to UK citizens. Equivalent to it importing the entire cobalt needs of European industry each year. Not to mention a 20% increase in the UK electricity supply to power up all the new Nissan Leafs. The authors extrapolate from the UK to the global stage, assuming 2 billion cars are on the road in 2050. We’ll need a 70% increase in annual production of neodymium and dysprosium and more than a threefold increase in cobalt production to get anywhere near this. This is electrifying only cars, remember. Not trucks, planes, or any other fossil-fuelled systems that drive societal expectations. No amount of economic gymnastics will overcome the physical reality of net zero transition. Not in the UK. Not here. Why are they not listening? The views of Groundswell and the UK Natural History Museum align remarkably at the high level. More howls will join them as others wake up to reality. That is a necessary part of change. The trick to making a success of that change is having fundamentally good, strong systems in place on your farm and in your business once that howling has stopped. Because more change will be coming.

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Rural community to the fore I seriously think that when it comes to being a team, the rural community has good reason to be very proud. Perhaps it is the isolation because of the sparse population, or the character of the folk who live and work in rural areas, but when the chips are down, that community spirit kicks in faster than in any other arena. I was brought up on a farm in Mid Canterbury, the Westerfield district, and thought it totally normal for the party line telephone system to be used to get trucks and people to a fire or to have the local rugby team to pull together to get hay into the shed as a fund raiser. I loved the fact that at Christmas time the Salvation Army band, the silver or brass band, and the pipe bands arrived on trucks to play Christmas carols and brilliant music as a fund raiser, but also to bring joy to the people who were to celebrate the season. There are no Council funded Christmas in the park concerts in rural areas. It was a natural thing for total kindness being shown by others and people just being there. A death in a family would result in a raft of meals appearing, and just needing to be put n the oven, plus cakes and treats materialised as though by magic. I remember when my father bought the property, bare land with no trees apart from a very short shelterbelt in the middle, the previous owner dropped off rolls of wire and posts, because he thought they would be helpful, and others did similar things including “lending machinery along with an opera-

tor” to welcome us to the district. That was in the 1950s and a long time ago. Technology and farming have moved on as the world changed to what it is now, the family farm is becoming a thing of the past, and instead of “married couples and farm hands” we now have sharemilkers and landowners but thankfully that spirit is still there. The recent flood in Mid Canterbury is a case in point. Weeks after the media had moved on and left the locals to look after themselves, the mess remained, and the heartbreak deepened as week after week the depression set in at the huge job of trying to restore what had been. Natural disasters are the worst things to get one’s head around in my view. When we had the earthquakes in Christchurch, we had no one to blame. There was no outlet for the anger over what had happened, and we simply had to get on with it. Thankfully, we did have groups who rallied around, including the Farming army who arrived in their droves with machinery and manpower without wanting a word of thanks. So, back to Mid Canterbury and the devastation. I understand that there are still amazing numbers of people arriving to do manual work on farms, practical things such as wire and posts are being delivered along with hay and supplements. Makes you proud to be a farmer.

August 2021

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