Canterbury Farming, April 2023

Dairy industry’s top performers recognised

Top dairy workers in Canterbury and the West Coast have been recognised for their performances at Dairy Industry Awards regional events held recently.

] by Kent Caddick

Maruia share milkers Ricky and Maria Johnson, were announced as the winners of the Share Farmer of the Year Category in the 2023 West Coast/Top of the South Dairy Industry Awards at the awards dinner held in Shantytown, while Hinds couple Jonathon and Stacey Hoets took out the same catego-

Getting the right advice early makes a difference.

ry in the Canterbury/North Otago Dairy Industry Awards held in Christchurch.

In the West Coast/Top of the South region the other big winners were Gurpreet Singh (Cape Foulwind), who was named the 2023 Dairy Manager of the Year, and Reefton’s Ireland Cain, the Dairy Trainee of the Year, while in the Canterbury/North Otago region Jack Symes (Southbridge), took out the Dairy

Manager award and Brayden Johnston from Oxford the Dairy Trainee title.

The Hoets, who are 20% equity partners with John and Kelly Nicholls on a 178ha Hinds property, milking 760 cows, have entered the awards three times previously and say they have grown their network and upskilled on areas that were challenging through the experience.

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Top of their game: Winners of the Canterbury/North Otago Share Farmers of the Year Jonathon and Stacey Hoets (left) from Hinds say they are delighted to have a career the whole family can be a part of, while the winners in the same category in the West Coast/Top of the South region, Maruia share milkers ricky and Maria Johnson (right), say being caretakers of the land is a pretty special job..

Maruia farming couple proud to produce ‘the best butter in the world’

FROM PAGE 1

Growing up on his parents’ dairy farm in Papakaio, Jonathon entered the dairy industry as a farm assistant when he left school.

“I really enjoyed the lifestyle, working outdoors and with animals,” Jonathon said.

“I love the challenge of producing a high quality product that’s in high demand and training up new staff.”

His partner Stacey said they love that it’s a career the whole family can be part of.

“The kids enjoy heading out on farm occasionally and enjoy being around the cows and calves too.”

The couple (both 32) are very proud they have become equity partners in the timeframe they set themselves.

“Eventually we would like to own a farm and along the way we are open to opportunities such as increasing our equity or diversifying into rental property ownership.”

Their goals to progress in the industry and

succeed motivate the couple in both the challenging and easy times.

“The drive to create something really good and open opportunities for our kids is strong. I’m really motivated to perform in the top 5%,” Jonathon said.

Meanwhile, Maruia share milkers Ricky and Maria Johnson say being caretakers of the land is a pretty special job to have and are proud to be part of a food-producing nation.

“We entered the Awards for the first time over 15 years ago and we entered again this year after hearing about the changes and it’s been well worthwhile so far,” the couple said.

“The feedback and taking the time to look at how and why we do things has made us think about where we are going and how we are going to get there.”

The couple’s family are now young adults and they say their biggest success was being able to bring their family up on a farm and having a tight family unit.

WE ARE BUYING!

“When you love what you do it doesn’t feel like work. The boys enjoy coming home to help on the farm and have a BBQ tea.”

Ricky and Maria cite their team as one of the biggest strengths of their business.

“We have a great crew with Kerrin being with us for six seasons and Isaac for three seasons. Being able to retain staff is awesome and makes life and the farm much easier.”

“The importance of having health and safety on-farm to keep us all safe is always evolving and the job is never done.”

Future farming goals include farm ownership on the West Coast.

“We’re excited about the future of Westland Milk and supplying quality milk to them. They produce fantastic products and we may be a bit biased, but we think they produce the best butter in the world.

“There is nothing quite like going to the supermarket and seeing a product on the shelf that you helped produce.”

The winner of the 2023 West Coast/Top of the South Dairy Manager of the Year category grew up on a farm in India and is grateful for the training and resources available to him in his role.

Gurpreet Singh is farm manager for Pamu Farms of New Zealand on the 460ha, 1050cow Cape Foulwind property.

The first-time entrant said he enjoys the variety of the farming lifestyle.

“It’s a great feeling at the end of the day that I have helped put food on the table for many families.”

Jack Symes, who took out the Dairy Manager title in the Canterbury/North Otago region is farm manager on Judy and Brian Symes’ 160ha, 630-cow property at Southbridge.

The first-time entrant grew up on a dairy farm and holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Agriculture) from Lincoln University.

“The dairy industry is continuing to become more efficient and productive while becoming more sustainable through technology and science,” Jack said.

“I see myself being a farmer who adapts to the changing environment as I move forward.”

Further details on the winners and the field day can be found at www.dairyindustryawards.co.nz

Top trainee: ireland Cain has been named winner in the West Coast/Top of the South Dairy Trainee of the Year category after winning the Emerging Talent award in the same category last year.

‘

There is nothing quite like going to the supermarket and seeing a product on the shelf that you helped produce.

Ricky and Maria Johnson Maruia share milkers

Westland Milk Products stages profit turnaround

Westland Milk Products has staged a significant financial turnaround, posting record sales and a $120million rebound in profit compared to last year.

] by Kent Caddick

Revenue for 2022 for Westland increased 27 per cent year-on-year to $NZ1.04 billion, enabling profit of $NZ39 million, or 69c per kilo of milk solids, a $NZ120m turnaround over 2021. It is the first time in company’s history it has surpassed $1 billion in annual revenue

The rebound comes on the back of record milk prices in 2022, hitting $NZ9.40 per kilogram of milk solids (KgMS) during the year.

Westland continues to pay farmers a 10c premium above the forecast Fonterra KgMS price, contributing $535 million into the West Coast and Canterbury economies through milk payments to farmers in 2022.

Westland CEO Richard Wyeth said the company’s strategy of focusing on high-value product sales, leveraging off the West Coast’s reputation as a source of premium dairy products and ingredients, was now paying dividends.

“This is the first time in our company’s 85-year history that we have surpassed the $1 billion dollar revenue mark,’’ Wyeth said.

“Having the support of Yili has enabled us to invest in our people and the infrastructure needed to increase production and sales of value-added products.”

Wyeth said the turnaround in performance is also a result of a well-planned, whole-ofbusiness approach to improve quality, reduce waste, increase sales, improve opportunities for staff and reduce costs of production.

“The biggest contributor to increasing revenue has been our high-value product strate-

gy and to some extent high global commodity prices but right across the business we have focused on doing everything well,’’ he said.

“Customers willing to pay a premium for high-value products have high standards. We’re working with our entire supply chain to ensure we can demonstrate these standards so that our customers can see for themselves the value of our ingredients and products.’’

Wyeth said the financial performance was well ahead of company projections and he remains optimistic about maintaining momentum and growth for Westland, despite ongoing international inflationary pressures and overall reductions in milk supply across New Zealand.

In 2022, Westland processed an 11% increase in milk solids year-on-year. This supported an operational cash conversion cost saving of 10% year-on-year, equivalent to around $18 million.

He said while Westland was able to pay farmers a record price of $9.40 KgMS in 2022, the recent milk price downgrade and ongoing impacts of inflation meant Westland would continue to take a cautious approach in managing costs to ensure it could continue to pay a premium for milk.

Following Westland’s acquisition of North Island butter processor Canary in 2022, Canary posted a 28% revenue increase over budget forecasts and increased profit by 129 per cent ahead of budget for the year.

Dividends: Westland CEO richard Wyeth says the company’s strategy of focusing on high-value product sales, and leveraging off the West Coast’s reputation as a source of premium dairy products and ingredients, is paying dividends.

“Overall, the business is well placed for 2023,” Wyeth said.

“Our value-added strategy is going from strength to strength, our recent acquisition of Canary has gone extremely well, and our consumer butter sales are expanding domestically and internationally well ahead of schedule.

“We are excited about what can now be achieved for the future. While ingredient prices are more subdued in 2023, which will impact our revenue, the team in China sees the market being reasonably stable over the coming 12 months with balanced supply and demand but we are also positioned well in other international markets for future growth,’’ he said.

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Learning and leading

At the end of March I had the pleasure of attending DairyNZ’s Dairy Environment Leaders 2023 Forum, held in Wellington. It’s been a decade since the forum first began.

] with Damien O’Connor ] Minister for Agriculture, Biosecurity, ] Food Safety and Rural Communities

The theme this year was ‘learn and lead’ and it was a fantastic opportunity to connect with the dairy farmers who are shifting the dial and leading the sector in cutting edge environmental practice.

Among the speakers were Ian Proudfoot of KPMG, Hamish Gow who is the current Sir Graeme Harrison Professorial Chair of Global Value Chains and Trade at Lincoln, Julia Jones of NZX, and Buck Shelford, who most would agree knows a thing or two about leadership and learning. I participated in a panel discussion with Parliamentary colleagues James Shaw and Todd McClay where we fielded questions from farmers.

I want to thank everyone involved in the forum over the past ten years and particularly Martin Bennett, Tracy Brown and Melissa

Slattery who’ve chaired the forum over this time.

There’s a phrase that says leadership is taken and not given. To my mind that means that anyone can take responsibility, step up and show others a better way of doing things.

This goes to the heart of how our producers have been so successful as exporters - we’ve shared ideas and adapted to change.

Ahead of the forum I took a few minutes to read the DairyNZ purpose and strategy. DairyNZ’s stated purpose is ‘to deliver a better future for dairy farmers.’ With that in mind, I asked the group to make sure they think of the future dairy farmers and not just the future of those presently dairying.

It will take critical and long-term thinking to meet the challenges of shifting consumer markets and trade landscape, sustainability and climate, alternative protein technology, and labour and ownership.

Much of this is to do with frame of mind.

For instance, He Waka Eke Noa can been seen as an example of tackling a tough issue. More importantly, it’s an example of seeing a tough issue as an opportunity to get ahead of our markets to meet our customers and beat our competitors.

Unfortunately the talk around emissions pricing has been all too much about short term thinking.

I can relate to farmers being worried about uncertainty. Farmers operate in a world where they have minimal control and are exposed to market shifts and the weather. Having said this, we simply can’t bury our heads in the sand on climate - for one thing, our customers certainly aren’t.

The reality is, if we don’t move then the world will move for us. Already, there is progress being made in the space of alternative proteins and synthetic fermentation. More people than ever are conscious about their consumption and they want to know that

what they consume isn’t just good for them but also good for the planet. The Dairy Environment Leaders conference was a great example of farmers who don’t want to just keep up – they want to lead the charge. That doesn’t mean it’s easy, and I acknowledge that the sector has had a challenging time and that there are still challenges to work through. But the Government is committed to doing that work alongside the industry and we are committed to not only ensuring opportunities for farmers now but that the next generation of farmers have just as much opportunity in the future.

Every trip I take overseas as Trade Minister meeting counterparts, exporters and their customers, as well as consumers confirms to me that we are making the right shift to lift our sustainability credentials.

We look forward to the next decade of leadership from the Dairy Environment Leaders forum.

Too much regulation will be the end of farming

I’m honoured to be National’s agriculture spokesperson, a responsibility I’m delighted to have. I’ve represented a largely rural electorate for 15 years and enjoyed working on farms before and after I left school.

utors to the New Zealand economy - it’s that simple.

From day one I’ve been getting out and talking to farmers and agriculture leaders.

with Todd McClay

National Party Spokesperson

for Agriculture

I’m a keen hunter and fisherman and I’ve been involved in agricultural politics in the Bay of Plenty and in the UK and EU. As Trade Minister in the Key/English governments I always argued for a fairer deal for Kiwi agricultural exporters.

For me agriculture, forestry and our rural communities are the most important contrib-

My first day was at the Central District Fieldays, last week I held farm meetings in Canterbury and Southland, and participated in a Dairy NZ environment conference and this week is Canterbury Fieldays and farmer meetings in Reporoa and the Western Bay of Plenty.

I have a simple message - less regulation and more farming - that’s how we fill the huge financial hole the Labour government has dug for the country.

New Zealand farmers feed 50 million people with safe high-quality food. Agriculture earns nearly two in every three of this country’s export dollars – $41 billion or well over $20,000 for every household in the country.

Farming really is this country’s great strength.

Yet it’s not obvious New Zealanders are aware of the contribution that farmers make.

It’s little wonder, because for the last six years this Labour-led Government has told New Zealanders that farming is a problem.

Since it was appointed in 2017, Labour and the Greens have piled more than 20 separate pieces of legislation or regulation on to the agriculture sector.

Even the great Colin Meads would have struggled with 20 overbearing English forwards charging towards him. Farmers are struggling under the weight of Labour’s bureaucracy, and it must stop.

But it is not just the quantity of regulation that’s the problem it’s also the poor quality. Labour has developed its rules in silos, their officials try to run farms from Wellington, and farmers have born the cost.

And to top it all off their ongoing mismanagement of immigration is hurting productivity at the farm gate.

This might all seem to an accident but it’s not. Labour asked the rural community to prop up the economy during Covid but has now decided to go after them.

As a result trust between Government and the sector is at an all-time low. Things must change, and they will if National is elected in October.

Two organising principles guide my thinking on agriculture. The first is social license.

Every sector must be seen to contribute to the social issues of the day. For farmers, this is around environmental protection, the provision of jobs and contribution to the economy.

I firmly believe farmers want to and do contribute. They are custodians of the land and have great reason to care about the environment - to protect it for future generations of young farmers.

They deserve more recognition than they receive from Labour for their environmental efforts.

Golden touch for Alliance’s Pure South beef, lamb and venison

Alliance Group has been awarded five gold medals for its beef, lamb and venison at the Outstanding NZ Food Producers Awards.

] by Kent Caddick

More than 25 experienced food judges assessed entries over two days at the awards held at Auckland’s Homeland restaurant recently.

The awards recognise those who harvest, grow and produce New Zealand’s food and drink, and entries are judged on a range of criteria including aroma, visual appearance, flavour, consistency, quality, sustainability, brand story and packaging.

Alliance, New Zealand’s only 100 per cent farmer owned red meat co-operative, won gold for its Pure South Lamb, Pure South Handpicked Lamb, Pure South Beef, Pure South Handpicked 55 Day Aged Beef and Pure South Venison.

Shane Kingston, General Manager Sales for Alliance Group, said the array of awards across its portfolio highlights the co-operative’s commitment to quality and the passion and dedication of farmers.

“Our Pure South beef and lamb are our foundation brands and they are enjoyed in more than 65 countries around the world.”

Kingston said the recognition of the special qualities of our new Handpicked Lamb was particularly pleasing.

“Over the past five years, we have also steadily expanded our range to build a differentiated premium portfolio to provide our farmers with opportunities to partner with us on new products to meet demand from consumers who are also willing to pay a premium for red meat products and attributes guaranteed by a trusted brand.”

Judges praised the Pure South Lamb for its delicate, mild and mellow flavour and pleasant fine grained texture, and the Pure South Handpicked Lamb for its texture, mature depth of flavour and “tarty layer of fat”.

The Pure South Venison won accolades for its tenderness, succulence and delicious flavours.

Pure South Beef was described as mild, juicy and tender with good clean tasting fat. The Pure South Handpicked 55 Day Aged Beef was singled out for its marbling and “good beefy flavour that is reminiscent of Grandma’s classic beef and Yorkshire pudding,” The Handpicked 55 Day Aged Beef has won multiple gold medals at the World Steak Challenge.

Gold: Alliance’s pure South Handpicked lamb was praised for its texture, mature depth of flavour and “tarty layer of fat” by the judges who awarded it a gold medal at the Outstanding NZ Food producers Awards.

‘

Our pure South beef and lamb are our foundation brands and they are enjoyed in more than 65 countries around the world.

Shane Kingston General Manager Sales for Alliance Group

Canterbury

Rural Market Update

The Canterbury rural market is not immune to the rise in interest rates and on-farm inflation, which is putting the squeeze on returns for farmers and growers in the current season. The impact has been a reducing buyer pool for properties offered to market, with one or two genuine buyers operating at tender or auction as the new normal.

Buying interest has ranged from well-established local operators to renewed interest from out-of-town buyers. PB has completed several transactions this season where the buyers have originated from the North Island.

As always, quality rural properties sell well, no matter the market forces at play, and this has been clearly evident over both spring and summer with Canterbury rural real estate. Well-located dairy and dairy support properties with irrigation, land-use consent and quality infrastructure have been met by strong market demand.

Season to date has seen 11 dairy sales for $106m, back a third on last year, but the median price per hectare is still holding at $49,000/ha both this season and last.

All Canterbury rural sales (20ha+) season to date are back a third at 75 sales, season to date on last year (109). However, the median price has strengthened at $39,000/ ha, reinforcing that quality properties sell at full value in the Canterbury market.

The market is discounting farms with uncertain consents or poor compliance records, and farms in second-tier locations are proving harder to move at last year’s prices, given the squeeze on operating margins.

The arable sector has experienced a much-improved harvest, helping confidence. Arable land values are still typically below what is being paid for dairy support. This reflects land use compliance constraints rather than any lack of demand for quality arable land.

Enquiry for sheep and beef properties continues to be strong across the region. Weakening schedules, a softening commodity outlook, and higher interest rates will likely weigh on this market over the second half of this year.

Looking ahead, it is hard to envisage the current pressures on the rural land market changing in a hurry, and we probably should consider this the “New Normal” for buyers. So as buyers seek to gain a competitive advantage over the rest of the market, we should anticipate the due diligence and extended timelines to conclude contracts with vendors.

If you’re considering selling this coming Autumn or Spring, having the right team on your side will be vital.

The reach of our team across rural New Zealand is second to none, supported by experienced local agents with a proven track record of securing the best terms no matter the market conditions.

It gives me great pleasure to introduce you to our South Canterbury rural team that will leave you in no doubt you have chosen the best to represent you, whatever your real estate needs.

Gareth Cox, Canterbury Rural Manager gareth@pb.co.nz

Your South Canterbury Rural & Lifestyle team Tim Meehan, Michael Richardson and Shane Spiers

Royal attention for Show sheep

After Covid cancelling both 2020 and 2022 shows, the organisers of the Mackenzie A&P Highland Show are aiming to make their 125th Show in 2023 the biggest and best ever.

] by Kent Caddick

The 125th Mackenzie A&P Highland Show will be held on Easter Monday, April 10 at the Mackenzie A&P Showground in Fairlie.

It is regarded as the largest one-day Show in New Zealand with up to 15,000 through the gates.

“We want people to know there is a full day of entertainment and activities for the whole family for less than the cost of going to the movies. It’s a fun, family day out with something for everyone.”

The Mackenzie A&P Show is affiliated with The Royal Agricultural Society, which was es-

tablished in 1924 and is one of the few organisations in New Zealand with a ‘Royal’ charter.

With the support of the Royal Agricultural Society of New Zealand (RAS), the Mackenzie A&P Show promotes the development of agricultural, pastoral, horticultural, stock-raising and forestry resources in the South Canterbury Region.

This year the Show will host a Royal event in the Sheep section. Royal Events were introduced by the National A&P Association (the RAS) in 2001. A Royal Event allows A&P Associations to promote and feature a specific section at their Show. The RAS Supreme

Champion Medal and red, white and blue ribbon is awarded to Supreme Champions in these sections. RAS Champion Medals and ribbons are also awarded.

“This is quite an honour and will draw large entries from throughout the country.”

As well as the Royal Event in the Sheep section, there will be plenty to see and do at the Show including Sheep dog trials, sheep auction, woodchopping, Mackenzie Shears (shearing competition), Kids Agri-Sports, Pet Tent(run by the Young Farmers Club), Shepherd’s Hack Competition, Vintage Machinery display, Mackenzie Highland Pipe Band, and of course the Grand Parade.

There will be over 150 shopping sites as well as carnival rides, and a large variety of food stalls and exhibits. The Show in fitting with the Highland theme will feature highland dancing, piping and solo drumming.

Entertainment on the Barwoods Entertainment Stage will feature Craig Smith of ”Wonky Donkey” fame, local musician Brad Stehle and the Mackenzie’s Got X-Factor Talent Quest run by The Bedford School of Music.

For more information including timetable and schedule go to www.facebook.com/mackenzieshow or the Show’s website www.mackenzieshow.co.nz

Favourite: Sheep dog trials at the Mackenzie A&p Highland Show are always a crowd favourite. photo by Glen innes photography.

Enduring powers of attorney

] with Bessie paterson llB ] Ronald W Angland & Son

The attorneys must be at least 20 years of age, have mental capacity and not be bankrupt. There are two types of Enduring Powers of Attorney.

The attorney under the care and welfare EPA must consult with the donor as far as possible, keep proper records of financial transactions entered into by the attorney, provide information to others where appropriate, generally oversee the donor’s care and welfare needs and have a certificate of the donor’s mental capacity where the EPA has been activated as a result of the donor’s losing capacity.

The care and welfare EPA only comes into effect when the donor has lost capacity and has been examined by a medical doctor con-

firming that the donor has lost the capacity to make decisions for themselves.

The property power of attorney may come into effect when it has been signed by both the donor and the attorneys. It can also be limited to take effect only if the donor loses capacity to deal with property dealings and financial affairs.

A donor may appoint more than one attorney to act in respect to their property matters. It is important that a donor appoints attorneys who are reliable and competent to deal with the donor’s property.

Bothe EPAs cease on the death of the donor whose Will comes into effect on his/her death.

It is always a good time to review a Will or make a Will where no Will exists. Where there has been a change in circumstances since the existing Will was made a Will-merk must

make a new Will. For example marriage revokes a Will unless the Will expressly states that it is made in contemplation of the marriage.

Where parties have separated they both need to make a new Will to remove the former partner from inheriting any benefit under their Will.

Over recent years there have been a number of statutory enactments which must be taken into account on making a Will which can be challenged if a Will does not provide for those who the Will-maker is required to consider and provide for.

These enactments reflect the obligations under the Property (Relationships) Act and other legislation reflecting the changes in modern society.

A Will provides for the appointment of executors and trustees who are the persons

who are required to see that the Will-maker’s directions are put into effect. A trust company may also be appointed to be the executor and trustee.

The Will may provide for legacies which are monetary gifts, items of sentimental value, motor vehicles and any other possessions which the Will-maker values. The residue which is anything then remaining goes to the residuary beneficiaries names in the Will.

If a deceased person has not made a Will their estate will devolve in accordance with the intestacy provisions of the Administration Act which does not often reflect what the deceased would have wished, and it takes longer to administer an intestate estate.

This article has been prepared by Bessie paterson a partner at ronald W Angland & Son, lawyers, 2 Chapman Street, leeston.

Backing the teachers – and children

Last week around 50,000 teachers and principals walked off the job. As I’m writing this, news is coming in that the PPTA is planning to strike again.

with Teanau Tuiono

Agriculture spokesperson

for the Green Party

The recent historic joint strike action involved primary, secondary, kindergarten, and area school teachers and kaiako Maori, alongside primary and area school principals.

Thousands of them gathered at Parliament and I went down to the forecourt to listen.

I heard about serious issues around funding and understaffing, ratios and sick leave. It is important to remember that the conditions teachers face in schools and classrooms, though often overlooked, are essential elements to student achievement and teacher retention.

In short, they told us that teacher working

conditions are student learning conditions.

Out in rural communities our teachers are an integral part of our communities often multi-tasking many roles at once. Often the School Principal is having to pick some of the teaching and take care of subject areas outside of their areas of expertise.

As one teacher said at the strike last week:

“Our small school principals are burning out because of the workload, having to teach and be a principal. We need to build a strong, caring, well looked after workforce so that we can look after your children and give them a great start to their educational career.” –Marama Stewart, primary school principal, Taneatua

As you can see, teachers, especially those from small rural schools, were very

clear about what can be done to improve educational outcomes in Aotearoa.

That’s why the National Party’s education announcement yesterday got a big fat fail from me.

The solution is not more tests. It’s addressing underlying inequality and underinvestment, so children can actually get to school and teachers can be supported to teach.

The Government needs to come to the table and ensure teacher pay is raised, and staffing, underfunding, ratios, and sick leave is addressed.

If we make sure every teacher is valued, from busy to urban centres to small rural schools, every child in Aotearoa will be able to reach their full potential with a high-quality, accessible education.

‘Our small school principals are burning out because of the workload, having to teach and be a principal.

Marama Stewart

Primary school principal, Taneatua

Everyone should make sure that they have appointed someone to take care of their care and welfare considerations and property matters in case they become mentally incompetent to make future decisions for themselves.

Good news for economies is currently bad news for equities

Recent months have seen investors’ focus remain on central banks’ policy decisions and any data that might give sway to the direction of interest rates. It has been a story of weaker economic data being good news for financial markets and stronger data seen as bad news.

with Andrew Wyllie ] Forsyth Barr

The reason for this is that stronger economies point to the need for central banks to hike interest rates more aggressively in order to bring inflation down. That, in turn, is generally negative for equity markets as it often means that consumers and firms are less likely to spend, company earnings will slow, and stock values come under downward pressure. This trading pattern seems well established for now.

Growing optimism at the start of 2023 that global central banks could ease off interest rate hikes prompted a decent rise in stock market values. But better than expected economic data in February has prompted a re-think and seen market pricing for interest rate hikes shift significantly higher. This has offset some of the equity market gains seen in January.

Expectations are for central bank policy rates to peak at higher levels around mid2023. Beyond then, central banks are likely to keep policy interest rates on hold until they’re sure they have slain the inflation dragon. The big question for investors remains whether economies can navigate a “soft landing”, or if the extent of monetary policy tightening will be too much and push economies into a recession. At this stage, the market appears to be in the “soft landing” camp, but risks to the downside remain.

Negatives turning

Stepping back from the daily noise of watching inflation data, there are signs some that the major challenges in global economy and markets are starting to abate. It has been a turbulent few years.

After a strong bounce in the 18 months or so post the Covid crash, in 2022 we suffered the hangover from the withdrawal of substantial government and central bank economic support, rising interest rates to combat soaring inflation, a commodity supply shock after Russia invaded Ukraine, and China’s tight zero-COVID restrictions and property slump.

Several of these negative factors have now lessened or turned positive:

• Inflation appears to have peaked for most developed economies and, although it generally remains above central banks’ targets for now, it is now heading lower in most economies. The question is now, how fast can central banks get inflation back towards their targets (most countries target a pace of 2–3% inflation) and how long they will need to keep monetary policy restrictive in order to achieve this?

• There has been some relief from the commodity shock that hit after Russia invaded Ukraine. Energy prices in Europe have fallen back from being up +40% year-on-year to around +17% in January. European natural gas prices have returned back to levels seen prior to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, aided by a mild winter and countries diversifying their energy supplies. Food prices have also declined from peaks seen last year (albeit, they remain above pre-war levels).

• China’s economic re-opening has been a significant positive since December and the expectation is that this will provide a decent demand boost for Australasian exports, especially in the near-term. The anticipation of increased economic activity in China has driven the price of industrial metals (such as copper, tin and iron ore) sharply higher in the past few months. The Chinese economy is now expected to grow by a solid 5.2% in 2023 based on the latest forecasts from the IMF, a big upwards revision from its previous forecast of 4.4% growth.

Remaining on the challenging side is the ongoing decline in global property markets in response to rising interest rates. Declining house prices remain a risk to household confidence and spending.

So far this appears to have been reasonably well offset by strong labour markets and pent-up demand and savings still flowing after post-pandemic lockdowns.

Maintain an even keel

After the rough ride through 2022, the first couple of months of 2023 have been more of a mixed bag. We kicked off the year with a roar but a more cautious tone has now filtered in.

There will undoubtedly be external shocks and some bumps in the road as markets manage the transition to more subdued growth and higher interest rates in coming months.

The potential for interest rates to start declining again from late 2023/ early 2024 could be helpful for equity markets, but it will depend on what drives interest rate cuts. Assuming inflation comes gently down and economies remain solid then, all else equal, that should be positive for equities.

The risk remains that inflation and interest rates get driven lower by a sharper contraction in economic

activity which would be a negative for equity markets. As we’ve experienced in recent years, external shocks and surprising data can alter the investing landscape quickly. It remains important for investors to be flexible and prepare to navigate a range of potential outcomes in the year ahead.

This article was prepared as at 28 February 2023 and provides market commentary for the three-month period ending on that date. We appreciate that market volatility and economic uncertainty doesn’t make an easy backdrop for investors. To discuss your investment options please contact Andrew Wyllie, who is an investment Adviser and is Forsyth Barr’s Christchurch Branch Co-Manager. 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, has been prepared in good faith based on information obtained from sources believed to be reliable and accurate, and should not be regarded as financial advice.

Planning underway for the winter months

As I write this, we’re heading into Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Annual Meeting where farmers have had the opportunity to vote on nine remits.

by Kate Acland

Director, Beef+ Lamb New Zealand

There is clearly some unrest and questions out there from farmers and we’re clear, as a board and organisation, that regardless of the outcomes of these remits, we need to better connect with our levy payers, listen to and discuss their concerns and ensure we’re supporting them effectively.

We’ll take some time after the Annual Meeting to reflect on what we’ve heard and you can expect to hear more from us in the coming weeks.

On farm, autumn is always a busy time for us. We’ve had a particularly kind summer in Mt Somers after a fairly slow spring. Moisture levels are good, but soil temperatures are rapidly dropping and we’re seeing a decline in pasture growth rates.

Our focus is now on pushing that feed forward into autumn and condition scoring and sorting the ewes in the lead up to mating. This allows us to really focus on prioritising feed into the tail-end ewes.

We’re also in full planning mode for winter and thinking about our processes around winter feeding. We grow around 100ha of crop for both sheep and cattle, so intensively grazed forage crops are an important part of our farm system.

If you do require a resource consent to graze your crops this winter, remember the deadline is 1 May. B+LNZ has some great information on its website about what meets the permitted activity criteria as well as guidelines around applying for a resource consent.

Regardless of whether you’re operating under a resource consent or not, having all the planning in place and documented is essential. Again, there is a wealth of information and resources on the B+LNZ website to make winter planning and identification of critical source areas easy.

The sector has had glowing reports from Regional Councils about the huge improve-

ment in wintering practices in recent years, so let’s keep up the good work.

Although we’ve had a relatively kind summer weather wise, financial pressures are hitting home for many of us as margins are squeezed. The key is to focus on what we can control. We can’t control the weather or the interest rates, but we can focus on productivity.

This means ensuring our sheep are in the best possible condition prior to mating and carrying out feed budgets to identify and fill any feed deficits going into winter.

Before we all transition stock on feed crops and start feeding out, take the opportunity to get off farm while you can. All too soon we will be into winter, and it can get

too difficult to get away for more than a couple of hours.

It has been heartening to see the support given to farmers affected by Cyclone Gabrielle.

The kindness shown to us after the 2021 floods helped us get through a very difficult time. It is never too late to show support for our farming colleagues, even small gestures can make a big difference.

The value of the work done by the Federated Farmers-led Farmy Army cannot be overstated. Having a team coming in to help repair fences and infrastructure and make fast visual progress makes a world of difference to farmers who can at least begin to see a path forward through the devastation.

‘The key is to focus on what we can control. We can’t control the weather or the interest rates, but we can focus on productivity.

The silent force that makes farming possible

I recently read about a new raspberry cultivar that Plant and Food has produced and how it will help the raspberry processing industry and therefore the producers.

] with rob Cope-Williams

Called Early Bell, it comes on stream two to three weeks before other varieties, has an upright growing habit so it is ideal for mechanical harvesting.

It has average brix so the processing folk will love it as they prefer a slight tartness to the fruits, it is firm and medium sized so fits the bill again when it comes to processors, and it is ideal for freezing in individual berries and doesn’t form a solid block.

My thoughts drifted, as they are likely to do, and I wondered where the folk who developed the Early Bell at Plant and Food started their research, where they went to find the

original stock to cross or whatever they do in their glass houses, and what motivated them to spend goodness knows how long experimenting before they arrived at exactly what the growers and processors wanted.

Why raspberries, and why not simply accept that raspberries are raspberries and develop a variety that fruits heavier, or as in kiwifruit, has more than one colour?

Actually, I am not sure why we needed yellow kiwifruit let alone red ones, but that is another story for another day.

Think for a moment, about the varieties of grasses, cereals, potatoes and vegetables that we use commercially or in our own home gardens.

Not long ago we townies could buy a couple of varieties of tomatoes, now there is a huge range of them to cover any demand.

Lettuces the same, but gardens are different to our main stream industry, and I can only marvel at the new cultivars of broad acre crop choices.

Think back 50 years when basically wheat was wheat, ryegrass was ryegrass, and clover was clover.

Now the silent force in their white coats have given farmers a range of crops that mature when they should, are what the end market wants, as in those who graze animals, plus those who produce for the retail markets.

I suppose the question is who drives the

research and the need for always achieving better and better products, the market, the folks in the glass houses, or the fact that there are several research organisations doing it, so it is pressure to keep your company ahead of the others in the field.

Whatever it is, we, as an industry should be very grateful that there are people who have the patience to and knowledge to do what they do so farmers can benefit as well as the consumers.

Thanks to Robin Oakley for growing his triple coloured potatoes, they are a winner Robin and as you say, look great, taste amazing and all have a different texture. A product of the silent force.

Rolling to steep sheep and beef unit at Ballance. We first applied at Functional Fertiliser mix in 2010 and have applied to 85ha every year since.

We have enjoyed outstanding animal health with both sheep and beef animals regularly achieving top prices at the local sales yards. Independent analysis showed our soil quality to be second to none.

– GRAEME AND JUDY OLSEN

Functional Fertiliser applications over four years have transformed our rotationally grazed pastures into a highly productive summer dominant clover sward.

The “fertiliser’ soft carbon combination brought our soil and pasture to life with amazing alacrity.

Our spring pasture growth supported a stocking capacity of 40 su/ha with the pastures still requiring topping. The Functional Fertiliser wrap around support service has been exceptionally helpful.

– LINDSAY

This stuff is amazing. I have clover coming up where there was none before, thanks!

– LANCE UNSWORTH

We have a small organically registered farm near Otaki specialising in cattle finishing. In the 8 years since applying Functional Fertiliser no nitrogen has been applied and the changes have been exceptional with very strong clover growth providing all the nitrogen required. It took a little time to kick in however our animal health has been exceptional with no lice or worms and very few vet bills resulting in a low cost easy to manage and profitable operation. The property is at least carbon neutral, and the pastures largely look after themselves. The stock agent says we fatten cattle quicker than others with two year old carcass weights of 280 – 300kg with the meat having exceptional flavour.

Our costs are 30% less, with 30% less labour required. We run fewer animals with a 30% increase in overall profitability. It’s an easy-to-follow system that is equally successful on both large and small operations. Functional Fertiliser really works. It sweetens the soil creating the ideal environment for mycorrhizal fungi and beneficial microbes resulting in strong growth throughout the year.

– STUART PRITCHARD

Recently, a major end-user in the UK specified that they would now prefer to buy products from New Zealand that were grown or raised on reduced nitrogen and phosphate land. We believe this is a start of a new trend that will be here to stay.

WE HAVE THE ANSWER TO MAINTAIN HIGH PASTURAL YIELD WITHOUT FERTILISER NITROGEN

Groundspread NZ opens up award nominations to clients

Nominations are now open for the 2023 Groundspread NZ Awards, the only agricultural awards specifically designed for the groundspreading industry.

Supplied by Groundspread NZ

In their fifth year, the four awards recognise and celebrate the people behind the spreader trucks and the hard work they put in.

The awards are run by Groundspread NZ, formerly known as the New Zealand Groundspread Fertilisers Association.

Traditionally, nominations have come from within the industry for these awards, but Groundspread NZ have opened them up this year to the valued clients using their groundspreading services and are encouraging the rural community to step forward and nominate their groundspread operator when they notice a job well done President Graeme Martin said in what can often be a solitary profession, these industry awards help bring people together.

“They encourage us all to consider and applaud the efforts that others make – the innovations, the achievements and all the critical thinking that goes on in our industry,” Martin said.

“These awards also promote awareness and understanding of the importance of the groundspreading profession within the wider agricultural industry. After all, food production in New Zealand starts with ensuring that the right nutrients are spread accurately, evenly, and only in the right places. It’s a highly skilled job and we are proud to do it.”

Martin said spreader truck operators undergo significant training. They use finely calibrated machines, sophisticated equipment, and GPS tracking software so customers can receive accurate data that shows proof of placement.

“Where groundspreaders are certified to the industry standard, Spreadmark, farmers, growers and regional councils can be assured that all environmental responsibilities around nutrient spreading will be taken care of.”

The four awards are:

• Ballance Agri-Nutrients President’s Award:

Seeking nominees who have been a positive ambassador for the groundspreading industry. They will have shared their knowledge with others in the industry (and beyond) in one of the following areas – business, economic, environmental, or social.

• Ravensdown Young Achiever’s Award:

Looking for nominees who are under the age of 35 and are passionate about the groundspread industry(that they currently work in. They will show vision and passion and contribute positively to the industry.

• Graymont Health & Safety Award:

Nominees who demonstrate a commitment to health and safety in the industry and has made a significant contribution in this area during the past three years. This contribution will have benefited and improved health and safety outcomes for individual groundspreaders and/or the industry in general.

• Keith Andrews Trucks Innovation Award:

Seeking nominees who demonstrate a commitment to the exploration of technology and innovation in the groundspread industry. They will have encountered a problem or issue and have been able to solve it with their innovation.

Martin said being nominated for an award and being recognised by your peers is a huge honour and an achievement that finalists each year are extremely proud of. The awards will be presented at an awards gala, hosted by the Taranaki Branch, which closes the Association’s 65th Annual Conference in New Plymouth on July 4.

Rewarding: Nominations for the Groundspread NZ Awards have opened and for the first time clients will be able to nominate groundspreaders for an award.

To nominate someone either call or email the Groundspread NZ Executive Officer on 027 214 1790 or eo@ groundspreadnz.com to enter your groundspreader. Nominations for the 2023 Groundspread NZ Awards close on 12th May 2023. More information is available on the Groundspread NZ website, www.groundspreadnz.com.

Bayleys Canterbury are exceptionally proud to be the official and exclusive principal partner of Matatū.

We are proud to support and help grow women’s rugby and help our wāhine, across the South Island and its rural communities, be the best they can be. We thank all the players, coaches and management for their amazing mahi throughout the 2023 Super Rugby Aupiki season.

Share your shoulder

Nature has been her usual self and had her own way as and when she wants to.

] by rob Cope-Williams

Huge problems in the North island, and drought down here yet again, but this time in areas that are not used to drought, and therefore not experienced at farming through one.

As you know I am a very strong advocate of mental health especially within the rural sector, and it is certainly a stressful time for farming on top of the weather and disasters.

I seriously have no idea about the financial pressures the industry is facing, and very few outsiders will, but I want to come back to the basics that I continued to highlight on my TV programme, and have continued to do in this brilliant newspaper.

There are signs that family and friends can look for.

• Someone goes quiet and makes excuses for not going to meetings, or having people around for a meal or catch up.

• They will spend more and more time

out on the farm and skip cup of tea beaks.

• They will eat less than normal.

• They will talk less and change the subject if the conversation goes anywhere near the business.

• They will have trouble sleeping but seem to be tired all the time.

• Their sense of humour evaporates.

• They will certainly lack the usual physical contact they had in the form of a cuddle or holding eye contact.

Yes, you have heard it all before, but remember the three main things: Someone suffering from depression feels like a failure and that they should not feel like they do.

They will not talk about it, mainly because of the above.

They will hide it and that is a hard one. Naturally someone suffering, and they are suffering, will not want to face the fact and therefore not go to get medical help. Been there, done that.

I suggest a family member can make an appointment with the family Doctor for a simply medical, heart and blood pressure type thing, and alert them about the suspected depression.

Your main thing to remember from this note is that the one in depression is, simply put, a passenger. They have lost control of sound thinking so will not listen to reason when their minds take over.

Abundant Health Magnesium Triple

Magnesium and hypertension

The Women’s Health Study is one of the most influential medical studies. This followed nearly 30,000 Female Health professionals who are over 45. It is still going now after 30 years.

One of the many observations was the relationship between Magnesium and Hypertension (high blood pressure). The study showed that Magnesium intake was inversely related to hypertension; that those with low Magnesium had much higher chances of developing hypertension. Indeed, it seems as if Magnesium can help many conditions including cramp, heart rhythm, mood, sleeping any many more.

This should not surprise because of the special role of Magnesium in governing muscles and nerves. Calcium is the mineral that causes muscles to work and nerves to carry impulses. Magnesium helps return muscles and nerves to a resting state.

How does Magnesium help hypertension? Our blood vessels have a special type of muscle called smooth muscle. Just as Magnesium deficiency can cause cramp or tightness in our skeletal muscles, so low Magnesium causes smooth muscle to lose its natural suppleness. This can impede blood flow and forces the

heart to pump harder to circulate blood.

The main mechanism is that Magnesium is a powerful calcium channel blocker (many hypertension medications are calcium channel blockers). This allows the smooth muscle in blood vessels to relax thus allowing for enhanced blood flow.

The challenge is to get the right forms of Magnesium in the right doses. My preference is to use three different forms of Magnesium: Natural marine Magnesium from sea water, well proven Magnesium Citrate and probably the most effective, Magnesium glycinate. We then need to get the right doses. This is where one-aday supplements can be difficult as you cannot modify the dose. My Magnesium has a dosage range of 1-4 capsules so can be customised to a person’s needs.

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 newsletter at www. abundant.co.nz.

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• Marine Magnesium 121 mg

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• These high grade forms of Magnesium are quickly absorbed to get rapid benefits

• It is ideal to help relax sore or tight muscles

• Can help with restful sleep

• To help with PMS related tension

• Helps muscles recover after exercise

• Supports healthy heart rhythm

John Arts comments:

“Abundant Health rapid absorption Magnesium Triple can really help tight or stressed muscles and for a good night’s sleep. The 3 different forms of Magnesium mean you get fast results. The normal dose is 2 before bed.” (John Arts, Founder, Abundant Health Ltd)

Caution: Adult use only. High doses of magnesium can cause diarrhoea and may interact with some medications. If in doubt see your health care practitioner before use.

559

] with John Arts

Rural Support Trust Time Out Tour hits Canterbury

Rural Support Trust Ambassador, TV presenter turned sheep and beef farmer Matt Chisholm, has brought his Time Out Tour to Canterbury in recent weeks.

] by Kent Caddick

Chisholm signed on as the Trust’s inaugural Ambassador last year and has been on a nationwide tour talking about mental wellness and resilience. So far, he has visited 12 rural communities and connected with more than 2,500 people.

Chisholm started the tour in Southland and Stewart Island in June, then headed to the Bay of Plenty, Top of the South, Gisborne, Ashburton, Otago, Taranaki, Taupo, Cambridge and North Canterbury.

His most recent stop was in Timaru where he was hosted by the South Canterbury Rural Support Trust.

Chisholm has shared openly about his mental health struggles. Through the tour, he has been talking about his personal experiences and how he found a way through.

Key to getting Chisholm into the role has been Taranaki Rural Support Trust Chairman and long-time family friend Mike Green.

“Matt told his story in public for the first time at an event the Trust hosted in New Plymouth in 2020, shortly after the screening of his documentary, Man Enough,” Green said.

“Matt’s role as our ambassador is about remaining mentally resilient through tough times. We’ve partnered with him because he has an important message to share with rural people, to give hope that there is a way

through whatever difficulties individuals and families may be facing.”

Green said the Trust has received overwhelming positive feedback from those who have attended the Time Out Tour events across the country.

He said Matt’s story is resonating because people can relate to the challenges and experiences he shares.

“This Tour is about giving people in our rural communities the confidence to talk to each other about what they’re going through. We want to remind people that they’re not alone. When things get tough, we can lose sight of those around us who can relate to our own struggles and help us find a way forward.

“We are seeing evidence that Matt’s tour is helping. After each event, people are reaching out to the Rural Support Trust and other like-minded organisations for support. As Matt tours other parts of the country, we hope more people are inspired and feel confident about reaching out for help.”

Chisholm’s battles are documented in Imposter, a book he published last year supported by the Mental Health Foundation.

Speaking of his Ambassadorship role, Chisholm said he likes the good work the Rural Support Trust does, largely behind the scenes.

“I want people to understand how the Trust can help them in their communities, so

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more people can access their services when they need it most.”

Chisholm said his key message to anyone struggling with such pressure was to ask for help.

“Instead of having a conversation with yourself, go and talk to someone. Take that first step and life will change.

“Life can be infinitely greater than what it is now. Often the best of times come after the worst of times.”

Chisholm said his heart was in rural New Zealand.

“I’m passionate about the country, about farmers and about mental health. So, this role is a perfect fit for me.”

Brought up in Otago, Chisholm left TVNZ in 2019 to go farming on a 29-hectare block at Chatto Creek, near Alexandra in Central Otago. However, he recently hosted the reality show Celebrity Treasure Island and does other television work.

Matt Chisholm

Walking the walk: TV presenter, turned sheep and beef farmer, and rural Support Trust Ambassador Matt Chisholm has been sharing his mental health struggles on his nationwide tour.

‘Life can be infinitely greater than what it is now. Often the best of times come after the worst of times.

Rural Support Trust Ambassador

Ecological future for robotic weeders

The head of the BHU Future Farming Centre at Lincoln is questioning the long term ecological impact of robotic weeders.

] by Kent Caddick

Dr Charles Merfield has recently published a paper in the international weed science journal ‘Weed Research’ which looks into robotic weeders and ecological weed management.

Dr Merfield said robotic weeders emulate current herbicide and mechanical weeding systems which aim to produce fields of only crop plants – monocultures.

“However, ecological and weed science

is increasingly clear that monocultures have multiple negative outcomes, including increased pest and pathogen levels, reduced biodiversity, reduced ecosystem services, lower soil health, more competitive weeds dominating and less stable yields.

“Ecological weed management considers that not all non-crop plants cause harm, and that non-harmful species should be retained to provide multiple positive benefits.”

The paper describes three current levels

of robotic weeders and a potential fourth: Level 1: follows crop rows; Level 2: identifies all crop plants and weeds all the soil around them; Level 3: identifies all plants, determines which are crop and then individually eliminates all other plants (currently considered state of the art).

“While current Level 3 robotic weeders are revolutionary in terms of the technical achievements of the robots themselves, what would be

truly revolutionary in terms of addressing the deep sustainability of agriculture is Level 4 ecological weeding robots,” Merfield said.

“Level 4 weeders could achieve ecological weed management by identifying all plants as Level 3 weeders currently do, but then, only eliminating ‘true weeds’ leaving noncrop plants that are not harmful alive.”

Future farming: New research suggests the future of robotic weeders could include the ability to determine harmful weeds from benign thereby improving soil sustainability.

High capacity, high performance balers

John Deere balers play an important role for South Canterbury based contractors, Brent, Sally and Ethan Trounce of Trounce Contracting.

Supplied by

Drummond & Etheridge

Their main services are baleage (rounds and squares) and silage which sees their lead baler, a 2020 Variable Chamber V461R, regularly put to work across hay, straw and silage, including whole crop and lucerne.

“I swapped to John Deere balers in the 90’s because they were making better bales. Bales from the other brands didn’t have enough in them, and they did not have enough speed,” says Brent Trounce. “I have stuck with them for the service and because they are a good reliable baler.”

The high capacity and heavy-duty design of John Deere balers allows Trounce Contracting to make quick work of any crop.

“They cope with thick and thin. They are indestructible,” says Brent.

“We’ve baled alongside others using different brands and they can’t keep up or get the same weight into the bale.”

In addition to the V461R, Trounce Contracting have a comprehensive line-up of John Deere equipment, featuring a 990 Bal-

er, 7550 and 7300 Forage Harvesters, and various tractors including a 7R 250, 6155R and 6130R – all delivered in the last 12 months.

Whether you produce straw, hay, baleage or silage, a lot of one, or some of everything, the John Deere baler line up has something to meet the needs of any operation.

Rock-hard, super dense and perfectly formed round bales of concentrated energy are the norm for the V461R Variable Chamber Baler. Combine this output with high-speed tailgate cylinders and moving sheet sides that stretch the bale chamber by 100mm when unloading, and you have a 5 second unloading time that will see you save one whole minute for every six bales.

Robust, compact, and great for the majority of crops and conditions. The V451M Variable Chamber Baler is a true multi-crop baler that excels where speed is essential. Packed with high performance features like a high capacity 2.2m wide feeding system, 480mm diameter converging auger and adjustable diameter for maximum bale weight, the V451M is a highly reliable unit that will perform season after season.

The C461R Combi Baler is a powerful workhorse, capable of producing high volumes in short harvest windows. Fast unloading times and a high-speed 40 RPM wrapping arm unit, in conjunction with the high capacity feeding system and advanced bale chamber technology allows you to push your baling capacity way beyond current limits, whether your baling silage, hay or straw.

Whether you produce straw, hay, baleage or silage, the John Deere baler line up has something to meet the needs of any operation. pictured the John Deere V461R Variable Chamber Baler.

Key features include a high performance 2.2m wide feeding system, a wide hydraulic drop-floor clears even the worst blockage with ease, and 3 powered fixed rolls and two large diameter belt driving rolls inside the chamber.

To learn more about the range of John Deere balers, or to book a demo, contact your local Drummond & Etheridge on 0800 432 633 or visit www.dne.co.nz

Suzuki the benchmark for ATV

] Supplied by Suzuki NZ

Over 40 years ago Suzuki’s technical people in Wanganui recognised one of those needs and set about inventing what would become a common sight on any kiwi farm – the four-wheeler ATV. Starting with a three-wheel machine designed for leisure purposes, Suzuki engineers turned that into something suitable for farm use. They grafted on a two-wheel front axle, designed a new suspension system, front and rear carriers, and added other farm-oriented features. They sent that prototype back to Japan with the instruction “make this and we’ll sell thousands”. The rest of course, is history.

The modern ATV can be spotted in any rural setting, and is one of the most versatile and essential tools on the farm.

Development of Suzuki ATV has continued over the years to the point where the brand is recognised as among the most reliable and cost-effective four-wheelers on the market.

Suzuki is the benchmark for ATV; the range includes the basic KingQuad 400, the ever-popular KingQuad 500, and the range topping KingQuad 750.

The 400cc version is available in either manual or automatic transmission variants and is a well-engineered, down to earth

workhorse, with a solid reputation for being a no-frills, durable machine. Made in the USA like all Suzuki farm ATV, the build quality and reliability is without question, and the ease of use and no-nonsense design makes the KingQuad the clear choice for everyday farm use.

The KingQuad 500 and 750 range have CVT automatic transmissions as standard, independent suspension for

TRACTOR PARTS NEW & USED

a plush ride and push-button selectable 2WD/4WD with low and high ratios and a diff lock. Built tough to cope with New Zealand’s challenging farm environment, they

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Needham Ag JD750a Seeder parts

Pivot rebuild kits

are loaded with features to make life easier for their operators, such as a comfortable seat with plenty of padding, large underseat fuel tanks for greater range, and less time spent refuelling, front hydraulic disc brakes and fully-enclosed wet rear brake systems to name just a few.

are loaded with features to make life easier plenty underhydraulic disc brake

They say if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, but over the years, development of the KingQuad range has continued. The latest iterations feature a heavier 2mm thick tube frame and updated suspension offering 172mm and 194mm front and rear wheel travel respectively. An improved rear stabiliser delivers a better ride while towing capacity climbs to 600kg, and a digital screen provides all the information a farmer needs.

over the years, development of the Kingiterations feature a heavier 2mm thick tube offering wheel stabicaa needs.

Such is the proven reliability of the KingQuad range that Suzuki has increased the warranty period to three years or 15,000km, whichever comes first. This is a significant move giving farmers the confidence to know that Suzuki backs up their products with one of the best warranty offerings in the market.

Quad range that Suzuki has increased the or 15,000km,

Bonilla seed tabs, Seed boot mounting repair kits

Boots, Discs, V8 firming wheels, HD gauge wheels and Martin closing wheels

•Maize Planter No -till hardware, Clutches and Controllers

• Shop at our online store!

Up early and working till sunset. That’s a typical working day for a typical kiwi farmer. And for the myriad tasks encountered in a working day, a farmer needs to be confident that they have reliable, effective tools and equipment.

The Suzuki KingQuad range is built tough to cope with New Zealand’s challenging farm environment, and are loaded with features to make life easier for their operators.

New Holland compact tractor punching above its weight

Small in size but big on features, New Holland’s new sub-compact tractor, the Boomer 25C is proving its value in the growing lifestyle end of the agricultural machinery market.

] Supplied by New Holland

The smallest tractor in New Holland’s range, the Boomer 25C comes in below the Boomer 25, with a couple of significant changes that boost its appeal for the hobby farmer or those wanting some extra help around the garden.

While the latest addition to the Boomer range offers the same amount of horsepower as the Boomer 25C, the new sub-compact tractor has a lighter frame that leaves a smaller footprint, making it ideal for the likes of lawn, turf, and garden maintenance.

Easy to operate and versatile, the Boomer 25C is powered by a 1.3-litre three-cylinder diesel engine, and comes with a range of attachments, including a front-end loader with a 4-in-1 bucket, 60-inch cut mid-mount mower deck or a rear-mounted backhoe.

The appeal of the new Boomer includes the ease of operation, particularly for firsttime or inexperienced tractor customers.

The user-friendly hydrostatic drive control features two separate pedals for forward and reverses, with high- and lowrange and selectable 4WD. The foldable rollover protection system only enhances the 25C’s operating capability and overall safety for the operator.

The tractor is equipped with a heavylifting Category 1 rear linkage that is compatible with standard implements such as slashers and finishing mowers, and it can be fitted with either a turf or an industrial tread tyre to suit the tasks required.

Designed to shoulder the load around the garden or small farm holding, the Boomer 25C is the compact tractor that packs performance and versatility into its small frame, offering a simple ‘turn-key and drive’ style experience and capable of a range of jobs in a variety of conditions.

If that sounds like the ‘extra pair of hands’ you need right now, contact your local dealer because stock is on dealer floors and is ready to go to work.

The Boomer 25C is powered by a 1.3-litre three-cylinder diesel engine, and comes with a range of attachments, including a front-end loader with a 4-in-1 bucket, 60-inch cut midmount mower deck or a rear-mounted backhoe.

Ford NZ expands Ranger line-up

Ford New Zealand is expanding its Ranger lineup with the new offroad focused Wildtrak X, arriving in showrooms in the second half of the year.

]Supplied by Ford NZ

Branded as a go-anywhere limited-edition the Ranger Wildtrak X bridges the gap between the high-performance Ranger Raptor and the recreation-oriented Wildtrak and is designed for customers who want greater off-road capability and smart features that support their passion for adventure without compromising the Ranger’s impressive 3500kg towing capacity.

Elevating the Wildtrak X’s on- and off-road ability are core wheel and suspension improvements. The Ranger Wildtrak X’s Bilstein Position-Sensitive Dampers not only allows drivers to go further off the beaten track, but also improves on-road cornering manners.

This is thanks to End Stop Control Valve (ESCV) technology within the Bilstein dampers. The position-sensitive dampers allow for better fine-tuning and calibration so that the Wildtrak X’s on-road comfort matches its offroad performance.

With a monotube design and nitrogencharged external reservoir, the Bilstein dampers have an increased tuning bandwidth that allow for dual driving characteristics.

The Wildtrak X will be the first Ranger 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel variant to feature the advanced Full-time 4WD system instead of the part time ‘shift on the fly’ 4x4 system.

The Ranger Wildtrak X’s suspension has been specifically tuned for touring and payload in mind, but without sacrificing comfort

during unladen driving.

Overlanding enthusiasts will benefit from the damper tuning, which deftly sidesteps the usual drawbacks of a ‘lift kit’, improving tarmac handling and cornering composure. Importantly, the Wildtrak X retains the same 3500kg towing capacity3 as the standard Ranger Wildtrak.

Additionally, General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres are fitted as standard, with the 265/70 R17 rubber wrapped around new 17-inch alloy wheels.

The combination of new suspension, wheel, and tyres results in a 30mm wider track width front and rear, and an additional 26mm of ground clearance when compared to the existing Wildtrak.

Under the bonnet, the sole engine choice is Ford’s 2.0-Litre Bi-Turbo inline four-cylinder diesel, which is now well-known to Ranger enthusiasts.

Mated exclusively to a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Wildtrak X’s hearty 150kW/500Nm outputs will ensure owners can get wherever they want, whenever they want.

Wildtrak X also helps owners out on the trail with two new off-road tools that have been engineered to tackle challenging terrain.

Trail Turn Assist helps drivers negotiate tight bends on narrow tracks by applying the brake on the inside rear wheel, significantly

reducing the turning radius.

It’s designed to be used on loose surfaces at speeds under 19km/h and can be used when the truck is engaged in either 4H or 4L and the rear differential is unlocked.

Trail Control, also seen in the Ranger

CHOOSE A SOLUTION. CHOOSE SUMO.

Raptor, helps drivers maintain a constant low-speed while off-road. The driver simply selects a set speed below 32 km/h and the vehicle will manage its acceleration and braking while the driver concentrates on steering through difficult terrain.

MOUNTED TRIO GLS SUBSOILER

As its name suggests the Sumo Trio consists of 3 parts to help develop and create an ideal seed bed in all soil conditions.

First stage: Staggered row of subsoiler legs with a maximum working depth of 400mm.

(both hydraulic and shear pin protection systems available)

Secondary stage: Two rows of 500mm concave discs equipped with triple sealed bearings and Sumo’s famous double drive system giving unrivalled performance when working in adverse conditions.

Third stage: Sumo’s 760mm multipacker roller with replaceable shoulders leaves a weatherproof level finish in the most challenging soil conditions.

The Sumo Grassland subsoiler improves and revitalises compacted grassland that is suffering from the effects of continual livestock, rainfall and heavy machinery.

• Leading row of adjustable individually suspended discs allow minimum disturbance on the pasture surface.

• Hydraulic Subsoiler legs with working depths from 100-350mm to suit all types of compaction layer depths with quick change points.

• Rear flat packer roller with scrapers to leave an aerated consolidated level finish across the full working width.

Gap bridger: ranger Wildtrak X bridges the gap between ranger raptor and Wildtrak, with wider track and increased ground clearance.

Feed rate control system for Case IH

The market-leading CaseIH LB 436 HD Big Square baler not only leads the way with bale formation and density, it now comes with class-leading ISOBUS TIM technology to aid the operation and ensure peak performance throughout long days in the field.

Supplied by

Case IH

Feed rate control features two modes of operation, the first is charge control, available for rotor cutter models only and the second is slice control featured on all big baler models.

Charge Control Function

‘Charge Mode’ allows the baler to run at optimal performance by controlling the tractor speed in relation to swath size.

The driver simply selects charge mode and sets the optimal forward speed along with desired plunger capacity.

The baler then monitors crop flow and uses this data in conjunction with pre-set algorithms to control the tractor speed and ensure maximum output is achieved.

In field testing, this function not only improved the driver’s experience and reduced fatigue but also increase the output of the baler by 9%, with the additional benefit of improving fuel economy.

It is a great feature to help less experienced operators get the most out of their day.

Slice Control Mode

‘Slice control mode’ allows the driver to easily achieve bales with a uniform slice count.

After selecting Slice Control, the operator sets the maximum speed and desired slices per bale. The baler monitors the size

of each bale slice as it is formed and will control the tractor’s forward speed to ensure the desired slice count is achieved.

The slice control mode guarantees a uniform number of slices in each bale and an identical thickness of each slice. With traditional baler operation, the operator can-

not react quickly enough to insure this level of uniformity. These inconsistencies can lead to poorer bale handling, unstable stacks, and increased twine failures.

Bales with uniform slice formation will have constant density and present wellshaped and square-edged every time.

Options: The feed rate control on the CaseIH LB 436 HD Big Square baler features two modes of operation, the first is charge control, available for rotor cutter models only and the second is slice control featured on all big baler models.

Time to tackle that gnawing problem

Controlling rats and mice is all part of good farm and property management and protecting your assets.

]Supplied by UPL NZ

Destructive, dirty, and disease-carrying, rats and mice are among the most serious mammalian pests known to man. A single rat can produce 50 droppings and 50 mL of urine daily. Their powerful jaws also give them the ability to damage buildings and other assets - gnawing holes in grain sacks, and wood, and building nests in roofs and machinery.

And they’ll eat almost anything. From cereals, seeds, stock feed, and fruit, to eggs and chicks.

UPL NZ Ltd Northern South Island Regional Manager, Pete de Jong, says controlling them demands a combination of hard science and advanced rat psychology. He reckons Generation Soft Bait rodenticide has it nailed.

“Generation Block Bait, still has its place and its long-time users and advocates, but Generation Soft Bait has quantifiable advantages,” he says.

“When I’m explaining it to people, I tell them that, from a rat’s perspective, the difference between the wax-encased block and soft bait, is like the difference between chewing on a candle and eating peanut butter. Soft bait is totally irresistible to them.”

He says that attraction is to the point where the bait beats other food sources, hands-down. It also out-performed competitor baits in trials.

“Rats are naturally cautious and creatures of habit. But even where you’ve got fairly established, bait-shy populations, Generation Soft Bait works really well.”

He says the specially developed vegetable oil and crushed grain-based formulation gets rats’ attention faster, with the soft bait’s paper ensuring the tempting aroma disperses more widely. Pete says it’s also very easy to deploy by skewering the plasticine-like bait on the metal rod, or wire within the Generation bait station. “It’s quick, clean, and convenient.”

The smallest non-dispersible bait on the market, Generation Soft Bait kills rapidly and in a single feed. 2-3gs kills a rat and 0.3-0.4g a mouse. To put that into perspective, a rat’s average daily dietary intake is 20 g/day; 3 g/day for a mouse.

Generation Soft Bait also won’t leak or melt and has very good moisture and heat tolerance. The bait’s active, difethialone 25 ppm, which rodents can’t detect, is the most advanced anti-coagulant on the market. There is no known genetic resistance among rodent populations.

This country has four species of introduced rodents – the Norway rat, the ship rat, the Polynesian rat (kiore), and the house mouse.

Rats reach sexual maturity at 8 to 12 weeks and mate year-round, multiplying

to almost plague-like proportions in a very short time. Population explosions are often linked to “mast years” for native trees and flowers seed production - around every 2-5 years.

Pete says domestic pet owners, naturally, have concerns over rodenticide use. But he’d like to put their minds at ease. Generation Soft Bait contains Bitrex, a bittering agent that reduces the risk of consumption by non-target animals. Moreover, secondary poisoning – where a pet eats a dead rodentis unlikely with Generation Soft Bait. Firstly,

dogs or cats would need to ingest improbably large numbers of carcases to suffer real ill effects. Secondly, rats often return to their nests to die, either in trees or roof cavities or underground, so are not accessible. However, he adds, poisons should always be handled in accordance with the label and stored out of reach or children, cats, and dogs, ideally in a locked cabinet. Bait stations must be used.

Generation blocks, soft bait, and bait stations are available exclusively from pGG Wrightson.

Generation® Soft Bait takes down the dirty rats and mice. Registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997, No. V9597 and V9587. See www.foodsafety.govt. nz for registration conditions. Approved pursuant to the HSNO Act 1996, Approval Code HSR100839 and HSR100840 See www.epa.govt.nz for approval controls. Generation is a registered trademark.

Optimism in team dynamics

Team dynamics are a curious thing, and this should give us hope, especially when that team is seven pale stale males and a much younger woman in a hut on Stewart Island for a week. Most of us met for the first time on the trip, though a few had known each other a very long time.

] by Solis Norton

We males were an eclectic bunch. A lawyer, an economics professor, a slaughterman, a fish farmer, an events manager, a farm consultant, and a business coach. It was curiously like one of those semi-real television shows.

The young woman was more competent in this challenging environment than virtually all of us. She could comfortably sail, dive, hunt and cook at least as well as we could.

She was graceful with it too. Our professor was a towering intellect but moribund in any practical task. The rest of us sat at various angles within these

Over the week we went through those clichéd stages of forming, storming, norming, and performing.

We actually did reasonably well I thought, naturally finding an operating structure to suit our personalities and our challenges.

We recovered the boat that slipped its mooring during the night and from well over two miles away. We repaired the boat that conked out.

We accepted, even embraced the diversity of the group. We ate well and partied in moderation. We enjoyed truly diverse conversations that at various times challenged all of us. It was great.

Pale stale males cop a lot of flack these days. Our group smashed the stereo types. We were open about our limitations, open in complimenting the young woman on her skills, and we worked to support the team in any way we could.

When she and her dad the fish farmer left a couple of days early there was a deeply glum feeling amongst the rest of us. Not derogatory, not paternal, not even offended, just sad that we’d lost two highly capable friends and a wonderfully youthful energy that had invigor-

ated the rest of us.

I’m accused of being a doom and gloomer in regard to the future and perhaps rightly so. But this experience highlighted human connection and interaction in such a positive light that I may have to change my mind.

This bunch of strangers, most pale stale and male, in a new and challenging environment actually banded together in a way that really got the business done and formed great relationships at the same time, at least for a week. We should find optimism in this.

• Driveways

• Earthquake Repairs

• New Home Specialists

• Patios & Paths

The joy of growing Peonies

No one forgets their first bunch of peonies. The magic of watching those large promising flower buds slowly open to display their full glory is truly one of the wonders of spring.

] by Myles White ]

Kinross Fields

Valued for their beauty and medicinal properties people have prized peonies for thousands of years. The Ancient Greeks had a legend about the peony. Paeon, who was a student of Asclepius the Greek god of medicine, out shone him when he used the juice from the peony tuber to cure Pluto. Asclepius flew into a jealous rage and told the other gods that he planned to kill Paeon. Zeus thought this was unfair and so to protect Paeon hid him in the form of the peony flower for eternity.

In Chinese culture the peony is celebrated for its beauty, symbolising femininity, love, affection, good fortune and prosperity. It was for many centuries the symbol of the imperial court and was China’s national flower till the cultural revolution in 1912. In many Chinese homes when enter you will see flowers or paintings of peonies.

New Zealand whilst fairly new to growing peonies commercially for cut flower production has, through attention to quality, gained a reputation for producing first class flowers. It has something to do with our soils and climate which help to create

outstanding colours especially for the coral varieties. As I mentioned a focus on quality has gained growers premium prices internationally. The flowers picked as buds are carefully graded, packed and kept between 0 and 2 degrees until reaching their end destination.

NZ exports peonies all over the world with flowers going to the likes of the Middle East, China, Europe and America. America is half of our export market but China is quickly growing with huge potential.

The peony tuber looks a bit like a bunch of mangled carrots. It’s from the tuber that the medicinal properties are obtained. But tea is also made from steeping the flowers leaves with beneficial effects. There is a NZ company producing a wonderful skin product from the tubers based in Nelson. The medicinal potential of peonies is extensive.

Peonies are a very hardy plant. They are drought resistant and are generally easy to grow. There are only two things that they need to survive and that is free draining soil and winter chilling. They must get a series of frosts to regenerate for the following year. This is why they don’t grow well in the North Island much to the disappointment of Aucklanders (by far NZ’s largest domestic

Pole Sheds & Hybrid Pole Sheds!

market). But for a mass of blooms add lots of sunlight and a bit of space and you will be rewarded year after year.

A tip to get the biggest of buds: as the stems grow and the buds form, remove any little side buds using your thumb and fore finger just snap them off. The energy will then go into increasing the size of the main

central bud. This is known as de-lateralling and for commercial growers it is quite a task.

Lastly how do you spell and pronounce this ‘King of the Perennials’? There are many ways to spell and to say it but the most common spelling is peony (peonies plural) pronounced like ‘pee an ee’.

Growing reputation: New Zealand while fairly new to growing peonies commercially for cut flower production has, through attention to quality, gained a reputation for producing first class flowers.

Higher than-expected demand for NAIT Accreditation

OSPRI New Zealand is reporting a higher than-expected demand for NAIT Accreditation under the new standards.

Supplied by OSPRI New Zealand

OSPRI’s National Manager, Quality, Compliance and Assurance, Melissa Bailey, said the surge in demand came at the end of 2022 which created some challenges in processing all the audits, but overall, it was a good sign for industry that so many individuals/organisations were getting on board with the new accreditation programme.

“The impact of the programme is already being felt. Over 300 individuals have completed online education modules in NAIT legislation and obligations,” Bailey said.

“This means that the industry is more confident in the advice they provide to farmers on how to meet their NAIT obligations, and there are less errors in the NAIT system. Since launching the education modules, errors made by accredited organisations in the NAIT system have reduced by two-thirds.”

Bailey said because the demand for audits surpassed their capacity at the end of the year there have been delays in completing the audit process so there are still organisations waiting to become accredited.

“We apologise for the delay but rest as-

sured, nobody will lose their accreditation if they have started the accreditation process and completed their education modules.

“We will not penalise organisations for these delays. Our audit supplier is working as fast as possible to get through the backlog.”

There are now 13 organisations accredited under the new Information Provider and Entities Dealing with NAIT Animals Standards.

This includes the four largest Information Providers in the country. NAIT is expecting another 25 organisations to complete accreditation in the next three months.

Further invitations to apply for accreditation will be sent out mid-2023 for those organisations who have not yet started the process.

“It takes a lot of time and significant effort to complete accreditation,” Bailey said.

“But farmers can have peace of mind that using a provider who has been accredited under the new standards will mean that the registration and movement of their animals will happen in an accurate and timely manner.”

Scan: Minister of Agriculture Damien O’Connor promoting NAiT scanning.

Trait change to help make confident breeding decisions

A fertility trait change by New Zealand Animal Evaluation Ltd (NZAEL) will provide more accurate information to dairy farmers and artificial breeding companies ahead of the next mating season.

Supplied by DairyNZ

The fertility trait change separates gestation length from fertility and creates a tenth trait to Breeding Worth (BW) – the index used to rank cows and bulls on their ability to efficiently convert feed into profit.

Released by NZAEL – the independent animal evaluation entity for dairy animals – the change makes gestation length (GL) a standalone trait, so it does not influence fertility estimated breeding value (EBV).

It will also ensure farmers have more accurate information to make confident breeding decisions ahead of the next mating season.

“Part of NZAEL’s role is reflecting the fertility of animals as accurately as possible for farmers,” NZAEL manager Andrew Fear said.

“Fertility is an important trait for New Zealand dairy herds, given our seasonal pasturebased farm systems. The change is important to farmers, as it means we aren’t unintentionally selecting for gestation length.”

The change separating gestation length from fertility is expected to be permanent.

“This is an example of the continuous improvements NZAEL is making,” Fear said.

“It’s important for farmers to make use of this change now, so they can confidently make good breeding decisions.”

The next fertility trait change is being developed. This will see NZAEL move to a conception-based fertility trait, which means GL won’t influence conception dates to the same degree as the current fertility trait, which is based on calving dates.

“Shorter GL is economically beneficial for farmers,” Fear said.

“For example, it allows more days-in-milk and more time to recover between calving and the start of mating, but its value is lower than that of early conception date. Therefore, both traits should be valued independently when considering an animal’s breeding worth (BW).”

The change in overall BW will be minimal off the back of the current fertility trait change, but farmers may see a decrease of around 10 BW in bulls on the Ranking of Active Sires (RAS) list.

The NZAEL team and partner experts are working towards releasing the new trait in December 2023.

Trait Change: NZAEl manager Andrew Fear (right) says part of NZAEl’s role is reflecting the fertility of animals as accurately as possible.

Safe management of farm waste

Recycling, collection and safe disposal services are a responsible way to deal with farm waste to reduce the negative effects on the environment and health risks for both people and animals.

Article supplied by DairyNZ

It is now easier to take care of farm waste with the available collection and recycling options.

Some farm waste can be repurposed or reused replacing harmful burning, burying or bulk storing waste. Find out waste management options for your farm and help look after the environment.

Plastics

Many plastics can be reused or recycled. Commonly used plastics include silage wrap, feed bags, bailing twine, plastic containers and drums.

Silage wrap: Recycling company Plasback sells liners for silage wrap online; once full, you can get the liners collected.

Plastic containers: It is free to recycle containers for more than 3,000 commonly used products.

Plastic drums: Agrecovery offers free collection from your property for drums and intermediate bulk containers (IBC) for a number of brands. Other brands can be collected for a fee.

Feedbags: Feedbags can be recycled through the Plasback recycling scheme.

Bailing twine: can also be recycled through the Plasback recycling scheme.

Agrichemicals

Many chemicals are free to dispose. Others may cost but are often subsidised. Agrichemicals commonly used on farm include herbicides, insecticides, fungicides and veterinary medicines.

Agrecovery specialises in the safe collection and disposal of unwanted or expired agrichemicals and their containers. Collections are held on a regional basis.

It is illegal to use or store any chemicals containing Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). DDT is the most well-known POP but there are a number of others including dieldrin, aldrin and lindane.

Dead stock

Using a collection service is the most common and easiest method for responsible stock disposal. Correctly constructed offal pits or compost bin are alternatives.

Some companies will charge a collection fee for the animal, others will pay for certain stock for example, dead calves (with specifications).

Offal pits should be well away from waterways, wetlands, bores, property boundaries and the farm dairy. They should also be shallow enough that groundwater will not enter.

Composting is an effective way to dispose of dead stock while creating a useful product and minimising the potential for groundwater contamination.

If managed well, composting can be low cost and relatively odour free.

Fertiliser and feed storage

Storing fertiliser and feed correctly reduces waste and protects your soil and waterways. Silage leachate is very acidic, contains high levels of nutrients and as a result is extremely toxic to waterways. Preparing and storing silage well is the best way to minimise leachate.

Storing agrichemicals correctly avoids leaks and spills and is important to keeping people, animals, the environment and your property safe.

GIVE YOUR EFFLUENT SYSTEM A SHAKE UP

Our system is center pivot injection compatible and capable of processing large volumes of raw effluent, which can be easily spread on pasture within a short time.

The New Zealand leader in complete geosynthetic solutions

Since its establishment in 1996, Viking Containment has been providing durable geosynthetic solutions for the primary, civil, and construction industries throughout New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific.

Supplied by Viking Containment

Viking Containment’s innovative range of geomembranes, geotextiles, and associated products are used to improve infrastructure, contain waste and wastewater, and protect the environment in a variety of sectors including dairy farms, viticulture, landfill, mining, civil infrastructure, and contract earthworks.

The people at Viking Containment are experienced in all aspects of geosynthetic systems and work closely with clients to ensure every installation is completed on time, within budget, and to specifications.

Viking Containment has extensive experience in the supply and construction of dairy effluent pond liner systems. The same exacting standards required for municipal wastewater treatment ponds also apply to dairy effluent applications.

Design and installation are critical elements for the successful containment of dairy effluent ponds. A minor breach of the liner system can have disastrous effects. Effluent leakage generates methane gas;

the trapped gas collects beneath the liner forming large pockets or bubbles, known as whales, which leads to the ultimate failure of the liner system.

For this reason alone you need the security of welded seams that can be tested 100%. The welding and testing technology for Agrishield liners incorporates a non-destructive test system. The dual-track wedge welds allow all seams to be pressure tested. This test will pick up a pinhole.

Viking Containment does not use or recommend lap-taped joins for dairy effluent. A taped join has no means of testing.

Features & Benefits

• Proven performance in the wastewater industry

• Reliable seam welding for a permanent join

• Agrishield is a cost-competitive and reliable choice for most applications

• Nationwide installation teams, qualified to international standards

• Comprehensive testing with a full Quality Control and Assurance Report

• Material Warranty – up to 20 years

Applications

• Dairy effluent pond liners

• Gas collection floating covers

• Drying beds

Choosing a Viking effluent storage pond will allow farmers to put more time and focus into animal health and pasture.

• Weeping walls

• Underpass encapsulation

• Canal lining

• Irrigation water storage dams

• Frost protection reservoirs

Maximising returns with Tracmap

These are challenging times for farmers. The introduction of a synthetic nitrogen fertiliser cap on pastoral land has forced them to come up with new solutions to meet the demands of the new legislation.

Supplied by Tracmap

This has required cold, hard data to be passed onto the regional authorities to ensure that the farm is compliant.

This is where TracMap comes in. Its GPS-based job management system generates the all-important ‘Proof of Placement’ data that is required to satisfy these compliance needs.

TracMap provides for annual dispersal planning, map generation, job creation and assignment (either ‘inhouse’ or to a contractor), full integration with a wide range of spread controllers, job guidance and finally report generation when the job is done. Report generation can be done on TracMap Online or via third party applications such as FarmIQ, Hawkeye, MyBallance and Precision Farming.

Specifically, the TracMap system offers the following range of benefits:

• Easy to use interface in the vehicle via the dedicated screen; it can be as simple as engaging your spreader to start recording your proof of placement.

• Full GPS guidance for accurate placement and efficiency. A map is sent to the device to guide the operator on the job ensuring the correct areas are cov-

ered and minimising accidental application.

• The ability to add exclusion zones and buffers around waterways. This warns the operators to keep a safe distance from sensitive areas.

• Report generation of nitrogen applications throughout the year, enabling you to manage your nitrogen usage better and know when you’re about to hit your cap.

• The ability to track; where a product was placed, the rate at which that product was placed and the date of application.

• Records of individual placing of products; jobs are kept separate and can be reviewed and reported on at any time.

• Records kept indefinitely, even when deleted.

• A thorough onboarding process, with someone dedicated to ensuring you get maximum return on investment.

TracMap’s GpS-based job management system generates the all-important ‘proof of placement’ data that is required to satisfy compliance needs.

• Knowledgeable support team to answer any questions.

For the farmer looking to optimise their operation, this is about a lot more than proof of placement. Gone are the days of spread and hope, having such information at your fingertips puts you back in control.

Accurate data now gives you, the modern farmer, the information you need to hit the sweet spot of nutrient dispersal and therefore maximise your returns.

Bladder tanks: The new effluent storage solution for farmers

With unpredictable weather patterns, increased fertiliser costs, and stricter council regulations, farmers are turning to alternative effluent storage solutions.

] by lloyd Thomas

Nevada Effluent Management

Specialist

Effluent bladder tanks are becoming increasingly popular among farmers, and it’s easy to see why. Bladder tanks offer several advantages, such as easy installation, portability, and safety.

Here are some of the reasons why farmers are choosing bladder tanks for effluent storage:

Additional storage

Many farmers have a pumping system with a sump that handles most of the effluent storage, but they need additional storage to handle rainy periods when effluent can’t be spread, or to comply with council regulations. Bladder tanks are a cost-effective solution that’s easy to install.

Land utilisation

Bladder tanks are simple to install with no major foundation work required. They can be installed on peat type soils or placed on

more ‘marginal’ land to make use of it as a storage facility.

It’s also worth noting that bladder tanks usually do not require council consent, making them an attractive option for farmers looking to expand their effluent storage capacity quickly.

Retention of Nitrogen content

Effluent stored in bladder tanks is more nutrient-rich since it is not diluted by rainwater or evaporated into the atmosphere. Proactive dairy farmers are utilising these nutrients and reducing their use of expensive synthetic fertilisers.

Reduced workload

Bladder tanks offer closed storage, so is not affected by additional rainwater. This means less effluent to manage after heavy rainfall. They are also a good alternative for high water table areas.

Cost & tax advantages

Bladder tanks between 300-500m3 offer excellent value and cost no more than installing a pond. They also provide the benefits

•

Effluent bladder tanks offer several advantages, such as easy installation, portability, and safety.

of closed storage. Bladder tanks depreciate on your books, allowing farmers to write them off after around five years.

Multi-location storage

Using bladder tanks to store effluent in multiple locations can reduce spreading costs and increase efficiency, especially for farmers with large or multiple farms. Spreading is easy to achieve when you have additional storage over the farm as it can give another ‘vantage’ point from which to use your slurry tanker. This can also mean less disruption to other operations.

Nevada’s effluent bladder tanks are specifically designed for storing effluent, providing protection from algae and fungal growth, UV protection, and using high-performance fabric with outstanding puncture resistance. Effluent bladder tanks offer an innovative, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution to effluent storage issues. With the benefits they offer, it’s no surprise that they are becoming increasingly popular among farmers.

To find out more about Nevada’s effluent bladder tanks, visit the website or give us a call.

Leaky effluent ponds? Prove it.

Most dairy effluent storage pond owners believe that their ponds are not leaking, particularly those that have been synthetically lined.

ities must be sealed and maintained to ensure the containment of effluent. Therefore, it is essential for dairy farmers to test their effluent storage ponds to ensure that they are meeting the GMP standards.

The need for effluent storage pond testing may not always be initiated by the Regional Council. Sometimes this can also be requested by the irrigation scheme, dairy company or can be as a result of a Farm Environment Plan (FEP) audit.

] by Matt Bubb

Aqualinc

However, even with synthetic lining, it is not possible to be sure that the pond is not leaking without carrying out a test. Therefore, it is important for dairy farmers to have their effluent storage ponds tested to ensure that they are not leaking.

One of the drivers for proving that effluent storage ponds are not leaking, is the need for farms to operate at a minimum of Good Management Practice (GMP). Ideally the farming operation should be operating at better than GMP.

GMP is a set of standards and guidelines that aim to ensure that farms are managed in a sustainable and environmentally responsible way. One of the key requirements of GMP for dairy farms, is that effluent storage facil-

These requests are becoming more frequent as the importance of good farming practices and environmental sustainability increases.

In the past, especially when FEP’s were first being introduced, some farmers questioned the need for environment plans. They considered that they were already doing a good job of farming in a responsible and environmentally friendly way.

However, it soon became apparent that it is no longer sufficient to ‘be’ a good operator; farmers must now ‘prove’ that this is the case.

This ‘proof’ of good practice and sustainable actions does not stop at the farm, this is also now being required by companies within the supply chain and from the markets that they serve.

At the farm scale, this can be done through the FEP and associated auditing process, and for effluent storage ponds, it can only be done through appropriate testing.

Accurate testing is essential to ensure that effluent storage ponds are meeting the required standards. In Canterbury, the criteria for storage being a permitted activity is that leakage cannot exceed 1mm per day.

Measuring leakage in a dynamic environment can be challenging. Whilst the test is being carried out there may be rainfall, evaporation, wind and associated wave action, barometric pressure changes and sometimes even flows into or out of the pond.

In these dynamic environments, compa-

nies need to be able to measure with sufficient accuracy to comply with industry and regional council expectations.

If the pond testing apparatus has recently been upgraded this also helps to increase the degree of accuracy and make the process easier to set up and dismantle. This helps save time, therefore reducing the costs of the testing.

For more information or to book your pond Drop test call Aqualinc on 03 964 6521.

Testing times: Accurate testing is essential to ensure that effluent storage ponds are meeting the required standards.

Speeding autumn recovery

Resilience is a word seen more frequently nowadays and our understanding is that it means the ability to stand up again after being flattened, both figuratively and literally, and our thoughts are with those in the Hawkes Bay, Gisborne, Northland and East Coast regions.

] with peter Burton

Rural communities are land based and the damage to land cannot be underestimated with the impact on individuals and communities unimaginable for those of us not directly involved.

Where we are able to assist is with the recovery of land. We subscribe to the philosophy that natural systems tend to wellness and left to time without intervention damaged land will recover, however there is much that can be done to speed the process.

Some of the steeper country is likely best planted in trees and possibly not grazed again, however it is under grazed permanent pasture that carbon is most rapidly sequestered and carbon in the form of organic matter is more valuable than gold as it is the essence of our survival.

As carbon is sequestered and organic matter built the potential for increased plant growth steadily grows.

The grazing of plants stimulates further growth. Dung and urine are deposited and along with uneaten leaf an organic cycle starts to operate, slowly at first but with sound management the speed of cycling steadily increases.

The other contributor to soil organic matter is old root. When a plant is grazed a process of root pruning takes place. The discarded root is digested primarily by earthworms, here in New Zealand it’s usually the humble but highly effective allolobophora caliginosa.

There were never naturally occurring

grasslands producing anywhere close to the annual feed supplied by today’s high producing clover-based pastures. The pastures that provide much of the meat and milk necessary for our survival were developed by early settlers with a quantum step forward provided by the application of superphosphate after the second world war when DC3 aircraft were used to spread it over recently cleared hill country.

Creating the environment that allowed clover and higher fertility grasses to flourish allowed astute and hard-working farmers to build stock numbers with a consequent increase in soil fertility.

Inevitably some steeper country that is prone to slipping and at best marginally economic will be retired and whether planted in harvestable trees, Manuka, or a variety of other species is yet to be decided.

The silt that has been deposited in the bottom of the valleys will in time develop into highly productive soil capable of supporting animals and horticulture providing

essential food for people.

Permanent clover-based pastures require, along with regular phosphorus and sulphur inputs, extra calcium as clover naturally contains 3-4 the calcium of grasses.

This is best provided by ag.lime with one of the benefits often ignored being the subsequent increase in earthworm numbers along with the activity of a wide variety of beneficial fungi and bacteria.

Land damaged will recover more quickly when beneficial fungi and bacteria are introduced in much the same way as the human gut benefits from a probiotic after a course of antibiotic.

Functional Fertiliser developed two products, CalciZest and DoloZest, over twenty years ago that contain a wide range of beneficial fungi and bacteria.

They were formulated to speed the rate of nutrient cycling and improve physical

soil structures. In order to ascertain their effectiveness they were initially incorporated into total nutrient programmes and the outcomes measured.

Over more than a decade of monthly pasture cuts a lift of 30% in annual pasture production without reliance on synthetic nitrogen was a common finding.

Because the slow growth winter period is the time during which all accumulated organic matter is fully digested providing nutrient for rapid spring growth, autumn is the optimum time to apply either product. For more information call Peter on 0800 843 809.

Earthmoving and Farm Maintenance Done Right

30

NZDIA new members giving back

The New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards has begun 2023 with a new name for the executive and two new members.

] by Kent Caddick

The executive is now known as the Advisory and Engagement Group (AEG) which NZDIA says better reflects the role its members have within the awards programme.

NZDIA General Manager Robin Congdon said the team was thrilled to welcome Milton farmer Louise Sahin and Manawatu farmer Maegan Legg to the group and looks forward to working closely with them.

“We are excited to have new members on board who will bring different skill sets and experiences that will complement our existing members,” Congdon said.

“They will work closely with the other members and the management team to help with the continuous evaluation and development of the NZDIA programme and help us engage with the regional committees and entrants across the country.”

Louise Sahin and her husband entered

the Share Farmer category five years ago and she is thrilled to now be in a position to give back to the programme.

“I found the experience to be a great opportunity to learn about our business, our strengths and our weaknesses and allowed us to explore new business opportunities we hadn’t previously considered,” she said.

“I believe it’s important for industry-led programmes to stay ahead of developments within the dairy industry and continue to share the good farming stories.”

Maegan Legg and her husband won the 2020 Manawatu Share Farmer of the Year title and she was the 2021 and 2022 Regional Manager and 2021 and 2023 Share Farmer Team Leader. This year she has al-

New face: Multiple dairy awards winner Maegan legg is one of two new faces on the NZDiA executive, which has changed its name to the Advisory and Engagement Group.

so taken on the role of Skills Day Coordinator for the region.

“I have a passion for personal growth and believe the Awards programme is an amazing avenue to really understand your own passion and drive, both within and beyond the dairy industry,” Leggg said.

“I feel very positive about the changes that have already been made to all categories and look forward to working with the team to solidify changes moving forward.”

The New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards comprise the New Zealand Share Farmer of the Year, New Zealand Dairy Manager of the Year and New Zealand Dairy Trainee of the Year programmes, and the Fonterra Responsible Dairying Award.

How are your consents?

Resource consents play a crucial role in the operation of many farming businesses. They are the cornerstone of our operations and enable us to carry out activities to make the most of our land.

Supplied by Aqualinc

However, it is common for consent holders to overlook the importance of regularly reviewing their consents. By neglecting to review consents from time to time, we risk non-compliance and also risk an opportunity to ensure the consents are appropriate for what we want to be doing.

It is essential to ensure that consents are accurate and up to date. A periodic review of your consents will enable an assessment of whether they still reflect your current needs, and whether there is on-going compliance with all conditions. Reviewing consents can also reveal potential issues that need to be addressed before they escalate into problems.

A review can identify areas where there may not be full compliance, allowing us to take corrective action before regulators intervene. Consents are not set in stone, and they can be amended to better reflect the needs of the farming operation.

If changes are required, they can be made without the risk of losing what the consent already authorises or giving regulators the opportunity to impose unrelated conditions.

Aqualinc offers a consent Warrant of Fitness (WOF) service, which reviews consents to ensure that they are still enabling

the farming operation to do what is needed. This process also considers what may be required when replacing the consent and identifies what can be done now to help with the renewal process.

It is important to remember that consents have an expiry date. If a consent is not renewed in time, the farming operation could be left without the necessary permissions to carry out essential activities.

By periodically reviewing our consents, we can ensure that we are aware of when they are due to expire and plan accordingly to renew them.

Regular reviews of consents are important to ensure that they are still fit for purpose and that the farming operation is complying with all the necessary conditions.

Aqualinc’s consent WOF service provides a comprehensive review of consents, identifying any potential issues and ensuring that the consents are up to date and accurate. Don’t overlook the importance of regularly reviewing your consents and contact Aqualinc today to discuss your needs and ensure that your consents accurately reflect your requirements.

For more information or to book your WOF call Aqualinc on 03 964 6521.

Review: Regular reviews of consents are important to ensure that they are still fit for purpose and that the farming operation is complying with all the necessary conditions.

Reflecting on the irrigation season

It’s that time of year when it’s useful to find 30 minutes in your life to reflect on the irrigation season. What went well and why? What could have been done better and how could this be supported?

] by

Andrew Curtis

] Primary Insight

In doing this it’s useful to think about the irrigation equipment alongside the timing and amount of irrigation applied.

For the equipment the following information is of value. How much time and money was spent operating the irrigation system? How often were there equipment issues during the season? How much time and money was spent on maintenance (or needs to be spent)?

Most farms can track the direct costs relating to maintenance through their P+L reporting, however unless specifically recorded, time spent, and other indirect costs can be more challenging.

Given the current operating environment, understanding the true cost of irrigation to the farm business is essential if farm operating costs are to be minimised. For examples, identifying components that need replacing or that could be upgraded to reduce operating costs, or accurately understanding the cost-benefit of a capital irrigation investment that has the potential to greatly reduce staffing requirements.

For the timing and amount of irrigation, it’s always of benefit to look at irrigation in relation to the climatic data – the soil moisture trace in relation to local rainfall and evapotranspiration.

Some soil moisture service providers make this an easy task, for others it’s not. This is the main reason why we advise those wanting to purchase a soil moisture sensor to always look at how the data is displayed and whether it provides analysis functions rather than purchasing on price.

The attached diagram shows an analy-

Analysing: An analysis from the Sentek irriMAX live web interface, which provides the pET and rainfall over the season, a stacked trace of each sensor down the profile, and the irrigation management trace (combined readings of the sensors in the crop rooting zone).

sis from the Sentek IrriMAX Live web interface. This provides the PET and rainfall over the season, a stacked trace of each sensor down the profile, and the irrigation management trace (combined readings of the sensors in the crop rooting zone).

In addition to this IrriMAX has an irrigation analysis feature. This shows the depth at which the plant is extracting water alongside the effectiveness of each irrigation (and rainfall) event.

The analysis is from my home raspberry

block. From this there’s a period during midJanuary where the irrigation controller was set incorrectly and ended up irrigating every day instead of 3 times per week. Unfortunately, as it’s a Bluetooth not web-based controller and I was away, there was nothing that could be done about this at the time.

When I came back and sorted the controller out, irrigation then got back on track... it then rained! The irrigation analysis feature in IrriMAX, which can be set up to run in realtime, made identifying this mix-up easy.

if you want to put in place reliable and accurate soil moisture monitoring on you farm, need support with trouble shooting an existing installation or would like to understand how to correctly setup, read, and use your soil moisture data for irrigation decision-making, primary insight is here to help. We’ll be running free irrigation workshops in April. Check out the event listings on our website for more information www.primaryinsight.co.nz. You’ll get a certificate of attendance that satisfies your Farm Environment plan irrigation training requirements.

BY LINDSAY

IRRIGATE WITH CONFIDENCE.

IRRIGATION SYSTEMS REMOTE MANAGEMENT PRECISION VRI

Closing out your irrigation season

As winter approaches, irrigated farmers and growers must prepare for the season by reviewing their irrigation systems and making necessary adjustments.

Strong winds can cause above-ground irrigation components to become loose through vibration or even be blown over, which can result in costly repairs and downtime. To prevent this from happening, it is recommended with pivots and other large irrigation equipment to properly point, park, and anchor securely all above-ground components.

It may be necessary to position irrigation systems in a sheltered down wind direction to minimize the impact of strong winds. Taking these additional steps can further safeguard irrigation systems during the winter months.

] by Stephen McNally ] IrrigationNZ Principal ] Technical Advisor

At IrrigationNZ, we understand the importance of maintaining a fully functioning irrigation system and encourage irrigators to start preparing now.

Freezing is one of the most significant threats to irrigation systems during the winter season in colder inland regions. Water left in above-ground pipes and equipment can freeze and cause the ice to expand, potentially damaging pipes and other components.

To prevent this, irrigators must drain all water from the system and ensure that pipes and equipment are vented properly. Additionally, above-ground components can be insulated against the cold to minimize damage and ensure that the system is ready to use again in the spring.

The winter season is an ideal time to conduct repairs and maintenance on the irrigation system. Irrigators have the opportunity to identify and address any issues that may have arisen during the past season, including repairing damaged pipes and equipment, replacing worn-out components, and conducting routine maintenance tasks such as cleaning filters and checking for leaks.

By addressing these issues now, irrigators can ensure that their irrigation systems are in top condition when needed.

In addition to protecting against freezing damage, it is important to consider the potential for wind damage during winter and spring storms.

Another crucial opportunity over the winter season is reviewing past irrigation water use data. This information can provide valuable insights into the efficiency of the irrigation system and help identify areas where improvements can be made.

By analysing this data, irrigators can make informed decisions about how to optimize their irrigation systems for the upcoming season, potentially saving water, energy, and reducing costs.

Reflecting on changes to irrigation management plans for the next season is an essential part of good management practices. By evaluating the successes and challenges of the past season, irrigators can identify areas where changes may be needed to optimize the efficiency and effectiveness of the irrigation system.

This could include adjusting irrigation schedules, using different irrigation methods, or implementing new technologies to improve water management.

At IrrigationNZ, we recognize the importance of good winter season work plans to the long-term effectiveness and productivity of irrigation systems.

By taking the necessary steps to protect and maintain these systems during the winter months, irrigators can ensure that they are ready to use when needed and avoid costly repairs and downtime. We encourage irrigators to work with irrigation professionals to ensure that their systems are serviced properly and that any necessary repairs or upgrades are completed to the highest standard.

In conclusion, optimising the efficiency and effectiveness of irrigation systems is an essential part of ensuring their long-term health and productivity.

By protecting against freezing damage, conducting repairs and maintenance, reviewing past water use data, and reflecting on changes to management plans, farmers can prepare their irrigation systems for the upcoming season.

At IrrigationNZ, we remain committed to providing farmers with the support and resources they need to make the most of their irrigation systems, both now and in the future.

Stephen McNally is principal Technical Advisor at irrigationNZ bringing his knowledge of irrigation systems and water infrastructure to drive sound policy development, produce education resources and support collaboration across irrigated farming operations and water storage schemes.

T

T h e l a r g e s t s o i l s a m p l e r e f e r e n c e a r e a o n t h e m a r k e t t o d a y

( 6 l t r s o r 3 7 0 c u b i c i n c h e s ) .

H i g h l y s e n s i t i v e T D T t e c h n o l o g y t h a t i s h i g h l y a c c u r a t e i n a l l s o i l c o n d i t i o n s

M u l t i p l e i n s t a l l a t i o n m e t h o d s t o c a p t u r e t h e r i g h t d a t a

U n i q u e l y a d a p t a b l e t o d i f f e r e n t c r o p p i n g , o r c h a r d , v i n e , a n d

i r r i g a t i o n s y s t e m s t y p e s

T h e l o n g e s t s e r v i n g i n s

‘Optimising the efficiency and effectiveness of irrigation systems is an essential part of ensuring their long-term health and productivity.

Market improves for best types

] with rob Cochrane

] Wool Procurement Manager, ] PGG Wrightson Wool

Wool industry participants and observers were obviously concerned when Cyclone Gabrielle dealt her cruel blow to such a wide area of the North Island, in particular crippling transport networks as well as one of the two main wool scouring facilities in New Zealand.

It is highly likely that every wool exporter has been affected to some degree by this event whether they had scoured wool packed into

a container ready for dispatch to ship side, scoured wool sitting at the scour site in high density bales ready to be c containerized, or greasy wool in farm bales awaiting the scouring process.

To further complicate matters the local Napier wool dumping facility (the process where either 2 or 3 greasy farm bales are compressed into the size of one farm bale before being containerized for export) suffered a mechanical breakdown, unrelated to the flooding, likely to halt that facility’s operations until late March.

It was expected that affected exporters would have to replace their losses by competing in the auction room and via country merchants and that growers who had wool for sale may reap the benefits, which unfortunately would not be the case for many growers who had also suffered extreme damage to

their properties and infrastructures. With still two wool scours in action the largest capacity remaining was that of the Washdyke location.

A North Island wool auction, scheduled soon after the Cyclone Gabrielle event, was cancelled for obvious reasons, however after wool broker and wool exporter meetings to discuss the way forward were held, auctions recommenced during late February and early March supported fully by the export trade.

Prices for better wool types displaying good base colour (whiteness) improved in both Islands as buyers scurried to replace some of their orders.

Along with good colour wools a number of poorer types also improved in value however because climatic conditions experienced across both North and South Islands for several months had been conducive to producing yellowing, the high volumes of extremely poor fleece wool did not improve in value compared to earlier sales and in many instances eased considerably. Poor colour and mixed length oddments also struggled to gain reasonable bids.

Lamb’s wool, often a feature of February and March auctions, had not escaped the climate with South Island wools in particular producing high colour test results, unheard

of during my time in the industry. Many lines of Lamb’s wool showed discolouration in the tips of their staples due to wet weather before weaning, as well as yellowing of fibres in general caused by long periods of high humidity.

A negative feature of many lines of Lamb’s wool offered during the February/March period was an obvious lack of care with in-shed preparation leaving discoloured seconds (bellies and pieces) amongst good colour body wool resulting in many lines being discounted whilst well-prepared lines gained positive momentum.

As eluded, poor colour wools have been “the norm” this calendar year to date, mostly through no fault of the grower but rather due to climatic conditions, however with crossbred and many mid-micron wool prices remaining generally very low, a large percentage of growers have preferred to reduce in-shed preparation to save costs.

Whilst cost saving sentiment can easily be understood in such a market, continuing to discount shed preparation standards will, in my view, continue to discount the entire wool clip from its previously highly regarded status amongst all wool processors across the globe. That’s my view.

] with Ali Spencer

Canterbury deer farmers feeding back on new industry plan

Canterbury’s deer farmers are among the stakeholders to give feedback recently on the future of the deer industry and especially the need to lift farmgate prices.

Over the past month, the South Canterbury & North Otago and Canterbury & West Coast branches of the New Zealand Deer Farmers Association (NZDFA), and other of the region’s deer farmers, have been involved in sessions with Deer Industry NZ (DINZ) board members and in kitchen table meetings.

The DINZ board’s top-down vision for the Deer Industry Strategy to 2027, is one of the topics that has been ‘robustly discussed’, along with the continued need for improved venison prices, industry actions to restore confidence and the continuous increase in costs of compliance and inputs.

For DINZ chief executive Innes Moffat, the meetings highlighted the desire of all parties to be part of a thriving industry, “but that the money needs to be in it to thrive.”

Cantabrian feedback is helping to refine the DINZ operational programme. DINZ staff are now looking at the priority areas to ensure there is capacity within the organisation to deliver on those priorities.

The new plans, subject to approval by the DINZ board, will be communicated to the rest of the industry at the 2023 Deer Industry Conference to be held on 10 May in Ashburton.

Those interested in attending can register at deernz.org/home/events/2023-deer-industry-conference

Participants learned of the venison companies’ latest marketing activities to help get more value into the venison schedule.

All five companies – Alliance, Duncan NZ,

First Light, Mountain River Venison and Silver Fern Farms – are working hard in the tri-market development model, “a third to the US, a third to Europe and a third to China and other markets”.

Creating stable demand through market diversification is the best approach to achieve a “steady, permanent increases in venison prices” they believe.

“Stronger sales into Europe and more year-round shipments of venison into less seasonal markets, plus anticipated higher pricing later in the year,” has resulted in the holding up of venison prices this year, DINZ noted in a letter to participants afterwards.

A steady rise in venison prices over 2023 is expected by venison exporters, with some indicating spring schedules above last year and that a “minimum spring peak of $10/kg could be achieved”, said DINZ.

Others, while “very confident of improving prices”, chose not to indicate prices as spring schedules were dependent on factors like currency.

All are well aware, however, of deer farmers’ need for “returns of $12/kg” to restore confidence in venison production.

Work by farm consultant Wayne Allen in 2022 on comparative farm profitability indicated – at the time – with the lamb schedule running at $8 to $9 per kg, venison then needed to be at $9.50-10.50/kg. The venison schedule needed to be running on a weighted average of $11.50-$12.35/kg to be competitive with velvet production.

Current lamb farmgate prices at are sitting at $6.00-7.00/kg. While lamb marketers will be confident it has reached the bottom, and will recover again, it shows the pressures currently at play in the global marketplace.

Aiming for the $10/kg spring peak this year for venison will be an improvement on 2022 and will lead to further improvement the following year which, DINZ said: “will build farmers’ confidence that venison can compete with other land use options.”

Deer farmers around the country, including Canterbury, have also been looking after their own. They’ve been actively fund-rais-

ing and providing practical support for their peers in northern regions affected by Cyclone Gabrielle, especially in Hawke’s Bay, Gisborne and Northland.

Over $117,000 was raised in an online auction on 15 March, organised by NZDFA, using PGG Wightson’s bidr system, to put into the kitty to help deer farmers recovery. This will go towards travel costs for fencing teams helping with replacement of boundary fencing, among other things.

While the future looks tough, New Zealand’s deer farmers are thinking ahead to get ahead.

Feedback: Cantabrian feedback is helping to refine Deer Industry NZ’s operational programme.

Ironmax Pro® protects high value Central Otago kale

We’ve all seen what slugs and snails can do to our vegetable gardens. When it comes to damage to agricultural and commercial crops that impact can multiply many times over.

Supplied by UPL NZ

UPL NZ Ltd Otago Southland Regional Manager Tom McDonald says one farmer’s recent experience was a timely wakeup call for those reliant on growing stock feed for their income.

“Forty-five hectares of high value Central Otago SovGold Ultrastrike-treated kale seedlings were under heavy attack from slugs.

“With potential average yields of around 10-14 t DM/ha, and suited to both cattle and sheep grazing systems, it was a crop that the farmer was naturally very keen to save.

“The irrigated kale, which was direct drilled, suffered a severe and potentially catastrophic outbreak.”

Fortunately for the crop, the farmer, and, ultimately, their stock, there was an effective solution at hand. Ironmax Pro molluscicide from UPL NZ Ltd was spread by helicopter at 6 kg/ha.

The results rewarded the decision.

Tom says Ironmax Pro made an extremely good job and supported the crop recovering and getting well established.

“The client was happy, and they said they saw an almost instant result.”

Tom says slugs are often under the radar. But he warns, you’ve got to keep an eye on them.

Grey field slugs (Deroceras reticulatum) and their close relations brown field slugs are voracious feeders causing damage across a broad range of plants. They are active year-round and can produce 300-500 eggs in their 13-month lifespan.

Tom advises a structured approach.

“In my experience, you need to be actively looking for slugs. We say, monitor and measure! Put down a slug mat or a damp hessian sack. Leave it there overnight and check it next morning. Even one slug signals that you’ve got a potential problem.”

Manufactured by French company DeSangosse, the global leader in molluscicide technology, Ironmax Pro is just as effective as sister product, and industry leader, Metarex® Inov. With the added value of solid green credentials.

Tom says the BioGro NZ organic certification that is making Ironmax Pro increasingly popular with farmers and contractors.

“There’s a demand for products that are safer for the environment, and more pleasant to work with, without compromising efficacy.”

Ironmax Pro has Colzactive® technology made up of specially selected oil seed rape extracts. Tom says 20 plant species were evaluated and 50 potential molecules identified based on their appeal to slugs.

Two extraordinarily attractive and palatable molecules were selected. These facilitate rapid detection by slugs, enhance Ironmax Pro’s taste, and how quickly Ironmax Pro works compared to other baits. Research shows slugs prefer feeding on Ironmax Pro to feeding on seedlings.

Ironmax Pro contains the optimized active ingredient 24.2 g/kg ferric phosphate anhydrous, referred to as IPMax. Iron (ferric) phosphate is a natural component of soil.

In Ironmax Pro it works as a stomach poison on slugs and is fatal once ingested.

Feeding stops almost immediately.

Ironmax Pro is manufactured with the finest durum wheat using a unique wet process which makes it very rain fast. IPMfriendly. The slug bait has limited impact on beneficials including earthworms and the slug predator carabid beetle.

Talk to your local technical representative for more details on Ironmax Pro.

Registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997 | See www.foodsafety.govt.nz for registration conditions. Approved pursuant to the HSNO Act 1996 | See www. epa.govt.nz for approval controls. ironmax pro® registered trademarks of DE SANGOSSE SAS

ironmax pro® molluscicide from Upl NZ helped to save this Central Otago kale crop.

The tip of the problem iceberg

We have a tale of very much two games in town this month. On the one hand our domestic sawmill customers are very much hurting over an abundance of lumber stock due to shrinking demand, erstwhile they are increasingly making lumber export sales losses.

] with Allan laurie MNZiF ] Laurie Forestry Ltd

One the other hand, China continues to rebound nicely with CFR log prices firming and daily consumption very much on the improve.

The net impact of CFR settlements, shipping costs and US$ v $kiwi exchange rate, has export log prices at wharf gate NZ hitting a three year high in March.

Lack of domestic demand is a good time to talk the good intentions of the forest industry transformation plan fairy story. A review of our lumber demand versus supply profile of the last three years now sees us back at situation normal despite what you may have heard.

Mostly, NZ sawmilling capacity significantly exceeds domestic consumption. Larger sawmill owners particularly are forced into lumber export sales at sometimes well below profit margin.

Yes, we did go through an 18-month period when low interest rates and falsely held optimism saw demand for house making lumber demand in excess of available supply. That is not the norm.

During the ‘boom’ most sawmills went from cutting for stock to cutting to order. Right now, many are cutting to stock and seriously starting to want log price reductions. I have not heard of any forest owners jumping toward that opportunity thus far.

Any transformation plan must have as its primary focus ‘growing market’. Nice to think we might process more logs domestically but the reality is there is no point doing that unless ongoing high value markets can be found for our wonderful Radiata pine that makes processing expansion anything close to common sense.

Meanwhile back in China we have started to see a nice tick up in demand. As at mid-March daily consumption has climbed to 75,000 m3 per day and overall inventory has fallen by 250,000 m3 in four weeks.

Whilst on the surface these key elements would suggest good times ahead, the converse is China domestic prices are not rebounding with current sales levels suggesting the price of Kiwi logs landed in China is US$8 to $10 per cubic metre too high. Clear-

With 25 years experience in the industry, the Forest Management Team offer services in: • Woodlot

• Emission Trading Scheme advice and management

• Trainer/Assessor in NZQA forestry related units

Our highly experienced teams aim to ensure value optimisation in all aspects of forest management.

ly, we will need to see lumber prices improve if our logs are to hold price at a China port.

Meanwhile the wonderful (not) shipping companies are increasing freight rates again on the back of what they are quoting as increasing demand.

Interestingly, daily hire rates in larger Supra and Supra Max vessels has started to soften, suggesting the Handy Class log carriers will shortly follow suit.

A moment here to comment on forest slash and East Coast beaches which sits at the front of every question I get asked by those outside the industry at present. One the hand it is a real shame forestry is being singled out whilst others escape the spotlight.

On the other, yes the level of debris is a huge concern and no more so than to the for-

estry sector. A review that can remove the emotion and look at how harvest practices might change to reflect this new normal is a priority. That is a tip of the problem iceberg.

But so it should be for farming where land collapse has resulted in hundreds of hectares and homes covered in silt.

None of this is good and very upsetting but interestingly does not seem to attract a media promulgated witch hunt. We must look at all land use in the face of this new climate change world where hugely excessive events like Cyclone Gabrielle might become more common.

Retiring land and trying to plant natives back in to heavily damaged areas across both forest and farm land is an obvious solution, but this is not the only golden chalice from which we must drink.

Indeed, as revealed by Gabrielle, native forests are not immune to mid slop failures and collapse in to water bodies. Nor are the abundant willow and poplar plantings in streams immune from being washed down to sweep away bridges as they did in Hawkes Bay.

The solutions will ultimately have to be a complex matrix of ‘fix its’ across all land use.

As always people, please remember the thoroughly important message, “it remains, as always, fundamentally important, the only way forward for climate, country and the planet, is to get out there and plant more trees”.

MORENI ARE POWER HARROWS AND POWER HARROWS ARE MORENI

If you want to prepare your soil for planting, then you’re going to need a harrow. Harrowing can successfully break up even the most compact of ground. Thanks to their heavy design, power harrows are capable of getting through deep soil. With the Moreni Power Harrow range, you can even get through some of the most compacted soil in a single pass.

Moreni only build power harrows and there is a model for every application.

MULCHING SOLUTIONS

Are you looking for the perfect solution to clean up your paddocks and get rid of that long overgrown dry grass? The TMC Cancela is the ideal machine. These mulchers are available in a wide range of configurations to suit every need.