Canterbury Farming, August 2024

Champion:  george Dodson shows off his fencing skills during the farmlet challenge in the fi nal of the  2024 Young Farmer of the Year.

Canterbury farmer takes title

George Dodson, representing the Darfield Young Farmers Club, has taken out the 2024 FMG Young Farmer of the Year title.

] by Kent Caddick

The 23-year-old was crowned the 56th Young Farmer of the Year after a nail-biting Grand Final event in Hamilton.

Originally from Southland, Dodson is second in charge of a 430-cow dairy farm between Darfield and Dunsandel.

This was his third time competing in the contest, but the first time he had earned a place in the grand final.

Dodson secured the win following three days of gruelling challenges against six other grand finalists. Challenges included an exam, an interview, heavy machinery, livestock, quizzes, and public speaking.

More than 500 spectators packed the Claudelands Oval to watch the action unfold during Friday’s action-packed practical day.

Contestants worked with quad bikes, power tools and a forage harvester to show off their practical skills. Points added up with every challenge, though the race continued to play out right until the final buzzer quiz on Saturday evening.

In the end, Dodson took the title ahead of Northern representative Caleb Eady who missed out on the title by just three points, with Aorangi Young Farmer Gareth McKerchar finishing up in third place.

Dodson said he was “in shock” after securing the title of New Zealand’s top young farmer.

“Words can’t even describe how I’m feeling, the excitement is nothing I’ve ever felt before,” Dodson said.

He is no stranger to the contest, though 2024 was his first attempt at a Grand Final.

The 23-year-old contestant dug deep and drew on the strong set of skills he learnt at home and through farm management. It was his performance in the final buzzer quiz that secured him the win.

“My Dad put hours and hours and hours into helping me prepare. I also had some of the boys coming out once a week from an hour’s drive away to test me on the buzzer, and I think that showed.”

Dodson hopes winning FMG Young Farmer of the Year will support him in the future, especially in his community and the next step in his career.

“A sharemilking job would be awesome, and I started the Canterbury Young Dairy Farmers Leaders Network so hopefully getting a bit more support behind that.”

Canterbury icon passes away

The North Canterbury farming community are mourning the loss of Omihi farmer Neil Evans who died recently following an on-farm accident.

] by Kent Caddick

Emergency services were called to an ATV crash at his family’s Omihi farm in late July but attempts to revive Evans were unsuccessful.

Last November Evans who was 65 captained the New Zealand sheep dog trialling team to a win over Australia in the iconic Trans-Tasman Wayleggo Cup held in Ashburton.

The New Zealand Sheep Dog Trial Association said Evans had been involved in sheep dog trialling for most of his life.

“Neil was a well respected and extremely successful dog trialist and good friend of so many in our sport,” it said on its website.

“With respect the Evans family have requested privacy as they navigate their way through this tragedy.”

Evans gathered a multitude of trialling titles and was also a finalist in this year’s New Zealand Rural Sports Awards in the Rural Sportsman of the Year category.

Worksafe are investigating the crash, which comes just a few months after another farmer was killed following an ATV crash in Waihao Downs, South Canterbury.

Partnership: Omihi farmer Neil Evans, who was the successful captain of the New Zealand sheep dog trialling team, with one of his champion dogs tess.

Prestigious awards inspiring the next generation

FROM PAGE 1

As well as the coveted title, Dodson also claimed the Agri-Knowledge award and over $90,000 in prizes.

New Zealand Young Farmers chief executive Lynda Coppersmith said Dodson impressed everyone with his broad knowledge and impressive leadership skills.

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“FMG Young Farmer of the Year is one of the most prestigious farming awards in the country. It’s inspiring to see it go to someone who will not only be a strong ambassador for the next generation of young farmers, but the agricultural industry as a whole,” Coppersmith said.

“After seeing the talent from the finals weekend, it’s exciting to see what the future of the food and fibre sector will hold.”

Meanwhile, Mt Hutt College students James Clark and Jack Foster finished runners-up in the Junior Young Farmers of the Year competitions.

Competing against 13 other teams from schools across the country Clark and Foster were runners up to a duo from Otago Boys’ High School.

Winners are grinners: Canterbury dairy farmer George Dodson was all smiles after receiving his trophy for winning the 2024 Young Farmer of the

Cantabrian plant producer of the year

Anna England from Elliot’s Wholesale Nursery in Amberley has been named as the 2024 Young Plant Producer of the Year.

] by Kent Caddick

The Young Plant Producer event tests competitors on the skills needed to run a successful plant production. It is organised by NZ Plant Producers (NZPPI), hosted by IPPS (International Plant Propagators’ Society) and supported by the Horticentre Charitable Trust.

The four finalists undertook two days of challenges at Lincoln University, where they were tested on their skills in finance and dispatch, biosecurity, plant propagation and identification, tool maintenance, agrichemical use and irrigation.

The judges looked for individuals who could make a difference in the industry, going beyond great skills to also include leadership, attitude and personality.

England moved to Christchurch from Taranaki four years ago to study horticulture at Lincoln University then joined the team at Elliot’s Wholesale Nursery.

“My time in horticulture so far has been a rewarding journey, and I’m grateful to be part of such a supportive industry,” England said.

“I saw the young plant producer competition as an opportunity to challenge myself to

develop new skills and knowledge, as well as a great chance to meet other inspired people who are committed to the industry.”

She said she has always loved being in the garden, and enjoys learning about organics and permaculture, as well as new tech used in growing.

“I now work as a sales coordinator at Elliott’s Wholesale Nursery, a role I love for the interactions it offers with both incredible plants and fantastic people.”

Along with her trophy, England has won a 12-month programme of mentorship support plus a $3000 fund to advance her career in plant production. She will also take part in the Young Horticulturalist of the Year award in November where she will compete against finalists from the entire horticulture sector, vying for a prize pool worth more than $20,000.

The Young Plant Producer 2024 runners up were: Ellen Ballantine, Team Lead R&D Operations of vegetable breeding company, Enza Zaden in Puni, Auckland; Johannes Andresen, Despatch Manager and Sales at Tharfield Nursery in Katikati; Jessica Jack, Nursery Production Worker at Kerikeri Plant Production in Kerikeri.

Top work: Amberley plant nursery worker Anna England has been named as the 2024 Young Plant Producer of the Year following the  competition’s fi nal at Lincoln university.

] with Todd McClay ] Minister for Agriculture

Farmers are the answer to shifting global environment

New Zealand farmers are world best. Our ‘Silver Fern’ trademark is synonymous with quality and is clearly recognised in supermarkets across the world, not only do we punch above our weight, our farmers set the global standard.

Rural New Zealand continues to be the backbone of our economy, driving job creation, supporting communities, and generating substantial export revenue, responsible for over 80% of our goods exports.

The Government has set the aspirational target of doubling the value of New Zealand’s exports in 10 years, and the primary sector will play a pivotal role in achieving this. To meet this target we must promote growth, bring down barriers, lower costs and deliver high-quality trade deals.

We are scrapping red tape regulations embedded by the previous government to free up framers and growers to do what they do best – innovate and compete on the world stage

Kiwi farmers have continually evolved to meet changing conditions for the last 40 years. When Agricultural subsidies were repealed in the 80’s our farmers did it tough, but they understood global consumers and are now the envy of food producers the world over.

Today’s world is no different, increasing protectionism again demands adaptation and evolution but Kiwi exporters are recognising the value of their product in major markets with increasing demand for health and life promoting products.

The rise in consumer preference for highquality, and sustainably produced goods is an opportunity for Kiwi producers to achieve further premiums and maintain a comparative advantage. While there are pockets of opportunity, it is a challenging time on farm at the moment with high interest rates and high inflation, in-

cluding on farm costs.

Although this is beginning to trend in the right direction, we are doing all we can to rein in lazy and wasteful spending and invest in front line services.

Reducing bureaucracy and getting Wellington out of farming is our priority. Already we have: taken a sensible approach to stock ex-

clusion and winter grazing, started work to reform the RMA, launched an inquiry into rural banking, increased investment in rural infrastructure, laid out better rules to make water storage easier and more affordable, increased investment in local decision making through catchment groups, disbanded

He Waka Eke Noa, created a pastoral sector group, taken agriculture out of the ETS and committed to a split gas approach, commenced an independent review of biogenic methane science and targets against no additional warming, began work to reform rules around biotech so New Zealand farmers can lead the world in innovation, and tripled funding for Rural Support Trusts. We have taken our first 8 months seriously and we have no intention of letting up.

Rural New Zealand contributes more jobs, more export revenue, and probably more All Black’s to New Zealand than any other sector, so it is in every Kiwis interest to stand behind our farmers and growers.

As Minister of Agriculture, I want to see a strong primary sector that is productive and competitive; meeting its climate change and environmental obligations while remaining profitable and producing the high-quality safe foods that we are known for, and that the world needs. I back NZ farmers to do that.

Where to from here?

Rising costs, and markets, two things that keep farmers awake at night, so where are we at and where to from here?

] with Rob Cope-Williams

Oh, for a look into the future. What we can do though is look at what is happening now.

Cropping wise it looks variable. The USA is planning to increase their tonnage by two million tonnes to meet their overseas markets.

While we continue to import milling wheat from Aussie because we can’t meet local demand, the costs of local production glows in the night.

There simply isn’t enough return after meeting demands from the mills and Aussies have volume we haven’t got.

Feed grain, simply put we should sell what we have before sowing any more. Scary figures on hand suggest 46 percent of last season’s feed wheat crop is still sitting in silos, feed barley looks better at around 2.5 percent.

Ryegrass contracts are reported to be 50 percent, so options are looking harder and harder to find.

Canterbury is a lot better off than other cropping regions as we can swing into specialist crops with ease. They do take more care and higher costs, but returns are a saviour. Plus, we do have irrigation which is a wonderful card to hold.

Sheep and beef are also looking a tough option with exporters fighting against volumes from other countries. With 80 percent of our beef production and 90 percent of our sheep meat production being exported, the marketing chaps have to juggle with what prices they can get, and what producers need to cover costs.

Let’s not mention wool which still battles against the world’s fascination with synthetics despite King Charles calling for natural fibre. China again comes into play. Dairying, our knight in shining armour, is struggling with huge costs and very tight markets.

Look at our Synlait situation: they have a niche market with infant products, but I am told the Covid outbreak meant young couples in China didn’t have children so there was a lag as normal family life returned.

Again though, our producers are battling world markets with our competition being able to produce grain, meat, dairy and seed at much lower costs.

But before you throw yourself off the top of a grain silo, we all know that farming is cyclical and the present Govt is focused on reducing the interest rates, and the costs of the RMA

We can’t change the opposition, but we can sort out how to win them over.

Flood protection on Banks Peninsula

We’re all familiar with the saying ‘good things take time’ and this sentiment certainly applies when it comes to natural disaster recovery.

] by Nikki Hawkey

But now, thanks to special funding provided by ECan, and working alongside landowners, Banks Peninsula Conservation Trust (BPCT) has been able to help restore some of the biodiversity values and assets that were literally swept away in the December 2021 flooding event.

The torrential rain set off a series of giant mudslides in Banks Peninsula’s far eastern bays. Seemingly random areas of thriving gullies and hillsides were stripped back to bedrock, strips of regenerating native forest and open pastoral areas were swept away by landslides leaving giant claw marks on the landscape.

Streams and wetlands were inundated – eels were dying in puddles amongst the debris, and clear outlets to the sea were blocked in several bays.

“The intensity of the devastation was shocking,” BPCT Covenants Officer Marie Neal said.

“But we were grateful to be able to work with landowners and ECan to remedy the fencing issues around protected areas of high ecological value as quickly as possible and return them to a stock-proof state.”

The flooding event compromised years of biodiversity gain, threatening around 15 covenants. “Covenants are biodiversity havens. They protect a range of ecosystems including highly prized ancient forest remnants. They nurture regenerating bush and are home to a variety of endemic, threatened, and icon-

ic species of birds, fish, plants and insects,” Neal said.

Apart from pockets of direct flood washout damage, the main threat to covenanted areas was the loss of stock fencing at overflowing catchment points and through slips.

“It doesn’t take long for wandering stock to unravel decades of regeneration by munching their way through vulnerable, highly palatable species.

“This imbalances the area’s ecology, meaning overall recovery takes longer. Stock also push through the bush, breaking vegetation as they rub, and pug the ground. Cattle are particularly damaging.”

Neal said interim fencing solutions were devised in the immediate aftermath, and in some areas, stock was excluded from adjacent paddocks until permanent fences could be reinstated.

“Banks Peninsula fencers are certainly the unsung heroes of the recovery. They worked in difficult terrain, trying conditions and under time pressure.

They were instrumental in protecting precious Peninsula biodiversity. It was also a pleasure working with such grateful and cooperative landowners.”

ECan’s quick response to the event by providing access to emergency biodiversity funding and specialist staff, meant BPCT was able to quickly get alongside landowners to assess damage and coordinate repair plans.

“Thanks to the collective efforts of council, community and BPCT, these covenants are again safeguarded; native forest flora

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‘

and fauna can thrive, and aquatic life is gradually returning to streams and waterways,”

Neal said.

Fish survey work coordinated by ECan has shown good numbers and variety of native fish species re – establishing in most streams. Recent sampling in an 80-metre stretch of Le Bons stream found really good numbers of bluegill, redfin and common bully, torrentfish, tuna (eels) and inanga.

Flood damage: Banks Peninsula covenant holder Orest  Tarnavsky inspects the damage to his Long Bay Road covenant  near Akaroa following the December 2021 fl ooding event.

Thanks to the collective efforts of council, community and BPCt, fl ora  and fauna can thrive and aquatic life is returning to streams and waterways.

Marie Neal BPCT Covenants Officer

] with Jo Luxton

Politics is about people

It is well known that climate and environmental issues in the rural space have been a sore spot for Labour over the last few years.

] Labour spokesperson for Agriculture

The political sphere is a funny one. People like to over-complicate it, but it’s quite simple. Politics is about people. It is impossible, therefore, to achieve effective and sustainable change without good relationships.

That’s why, since the election last year, I have been working with industry leaders to repair and strengthen the relationship between Labour and the primary sector.

Labour still stands firm on a number of issues like banning live animal exports and reducing emissions in agriculture.

However, in the future, we will be working more closely with the sector to ensure those policies are implemented in a way that works best for everyone.

In light of this, I visited the Waikato with a few my Labour colleagues recently to meet with industry representatives from Federated Farmers, DairyNZ, Beef+Lamb NZ, Groundswell, Rural Women, Young Farmers, Rural Support Trust, and others. The two-day event consisted of some robust discussions and a couple of farm visits.

‘

Gaining an understanding of the things that have been causing unnecessary irritation and uncertainty for farmers is important if we want to make meaningful changes.

Often, people and organisations get siloed and arbitrary walls are built, preventing connections from being made between those

who most need to be in communication. Politics is about people, and when we all get in a room together, we usually find we have more in common than we thought.

Will we agree on everything? No. But that doesn’t mean that we can’t have respectful conversations about those differences.

When we all get in a room together, we usually fi nd we have  more in common than we thought.

Not seeing the wood for the pine trees

Politics is never short of ironies, and recently the Luxon Government has offered us another in the form of a very prolific conical conifer.

] with Steve Abel

] Green Party Spokesperson

] for Agriculture

The National Party was, in part, elected on a platform of criticising the greening of farmland with pine plantations.

And here they are, with their recent draft Emissions Reduction Plan, revealing that their strategy for tackling climate change is to plant more pine trees!

Now, planting permanent native forests has value, though never as great as keeping our existing forest and wetland ecosystems healthy. Offsetting pollution, on the other hand, with trees that will be harvested in 25 to 30 years, achieves next to nothing for the climate.

If our objective is averting the most cata-

MOUNTED

strophic effects of climate change, offsetting emission by planting pine trees is a dangerous fiction to keep telling ourselves.

The Luxon Government’s newly found love of pine trees takes a further sinister turn when we consider the unfortunate case of the McKenzie Country. In this rugged tussock landscape huge efforts have gone into dealing with the problem of wilding pines in recent years through the Green Party-devised Jobs for Nature programme.

But the recent budget proved there is no intention to maintain these vital efforts. The ground gained against the triffid-like spread of pines will rapidly be lost if those efforts are not funded to continue.

Cutting the Jobs for Nature programme might be consistent with a government hellbent on defunding environmental protection,

but it also runs against the interests of protecting agricultural land from the aggressive spread of pest species. This looks a lot like a case of government not seeing the wood for the trees. Wilding pines threaten primary industry and ecology alike.

Pines have a range of negative impacts on the unique landscapes of the McKenzie. They degrade groundwater sources, disturb river flows and lake levels, and constitute a significant fire hazard. Furthermore, they are a barrier to biodiversity and a threat to ecosystems, risking the extinction of native species.

Intensive management is required to control wilding pines. The cost of removing wilding pines rises by around 30% each year (figure from the National Wilding Conifer Control Programme). The longer we put off

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working on it, then the problem grows exponentially.

The Government’s approach to emissions reductions may be continued ‘pinefication’ of the landscape but it also needs to consider the consequences and recall from extreme weather events, like the devastation of Cyclone Gabrielle in Tairawhiti, that forestry slash from pine tracts can do huge damage to both people and the environment.

Tunnel vision on emissions reductions ignores the need for an integrated environmental response, including climate adaptation and protection of waterways and biodiversity.

We should keep the wild trees in check, and in the process, we can help maintain farmland and biodiversity, as well as support people into gainful employment out there among the trees.

TRIO GLS SUBSOILER

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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.

University to demonstrate high-value agrivoltaics

Lincoln University has unveiled plans for an energy farm, which will demonstrate how productive land can be optimised to grow highvalue horticulture crops while generating commercial-scale solar energy.

] by Kent Caddick

The Lincoln University Energy Farm, which is currently under review for resource consent, will be constructed on a four-hectare parcel of University-owned land adjacent to the campus at the corner of Springs and Ellesmere Junction Road.

Lincoln University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Grant Edwards, said a distinctive feature of the Energy Farm will be its ability to host a comprehensive range of experiments and crop trials to contribute to the development of leading-edge practices that can be replicated and rolled out across New Zealand and the world.

“The increase in biodiversity will also be a subject of research, with extensive native planting around and within the site for crop wind protection, onsite water management and improved aesthetics,” Edwards said.

The 1.5 MW solar installation will comprise around 2,800 photovoltaic (PV) panels, generating ~2.3 GWh of renewable energy per year.

The rows of bifacial PV panels will be mounted on a state-of-the-art east-west tracking system, with two different height configurations, allowing for commercial crop production alongside and underneath the panel structures.

The specific high-value crops to be co-located with the solar array are yet to be deter-

mined but are likely to be blueberries, ranui berries or snowberries.

Next to the main array, a second smaller array will be dedicated to multi-use research as its main function, with complete manual control, different height and panel configurations, and different panel technologies.

The new Energy Farm will be the first demonstration of high-value agrivoltaics in Aotearoa New Zealand.

While livestock grazing is commonly practised within solar installations locally and internationally, this approach is primarily for the purpose of managing grass growth and is relatively low-value.

Lincoln University was also the first New Zealand university to generate solar energy on a commercial scale, with several campus buildings supporting large roof – and wallmounted solar arrays.

Scheduled for completion mid-2025, the energy farm will increase the University’s total generating capacity to approximately ~3.56 GWh, covering 18% of the campus’s annual electricity requirements after the heating system upgrade to 100% electric power.

Most of the energy generated by the new array will be used by the Lincoln campus, though the University will be looking to donate excess energy to the nearby community during low-demand periods like the end-ofyear break and summer weekends.

Powering up: A computer-generated image of Lincoln university’s proposed Energy Farm.

International equity market surge

As we reach the midpoint of 2024, global equity markets have delivered mixed performances across different countries and industries.

] with Andrew Wyllie ] Forsyth Barr

The MSCI World Index, a barometer of global stock performance, has seen some decent gains, primarily fuelled by the US equity market’s tech giants, often referred to as the ‘Magnificent Seven’: Alphabet, Amazon, Ap-

Looking at off-farm investments?

ple, Meta, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Tesla.

Understanding

benchmarks and concentration risk

It’s important to understand that within indices like the MSCI World and the S&P 500 (and most other indices), shares are typically weighted by their market capitalisation.

When you are thinking about your investment options, talk to Forsyth Barr

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

This means that the larger and more valuable a company in the index is, the more it influences an index’s performance. The dominance of the ‘Magnificent Seven’ companies underscores these mechanics.

These seven companies now constitute over 30% of the S&P 500 index. While their rise has propelled index values upward, their significant weight means that any decline in their stock prices could equally drag the index lower.

While indices serve as benchmarks to gauge overall market health, individual investors’ portfolios often look quite different from these indices. Most investors will own a portfolio that is more diversified than having a 30% concentration in US technology-related stocks. This high-

lights the importance of understanding the composition of investments and the volatility and concentration risk present in market indices.

New Zealand economy going through the toughest patch

While headline economic growth experienced a modest economic expansion of 0.3% year on year, the per capita growth paints a grimmer picture, with a decline of 2.4% year on year.

The unemployment rate hit 4.3% in March 2024, and forecasts suggest it will keep climbing into 2025 as economic conditions remain sluggish.

One small blessing is that the weakness in the economy finally appears to be feeding through to less inflationary pressure. In May, the RBNZ left the official cash rate unchanged at 5.50%, and based on the weakness we are now seeing in the economy, it seems unlikely that further rate hikes will be delivered. The next move is widely expected to be a rate cut in November 2024. For now, higher interest rates continue to provide good opportunities to lock in relatively elevated coupon rates on New Zealand bond issues, before the cutting cycle commences.

Geopolitics and politics

Geopolitical risks (including US–China tensions, the war in Ukraine, and the Israel–Hamas conflict) continue to loom. Recent geopolitical concerns have mainly impacted

oil prices rather than equity and bond markets, with a relatively short-lived impact. Outside of geopolitics, markets are starting to look to the November US election where three major policy areas are under intense scrutiny: trade, taxes, and immigration.

Elections provide plenty of headlines, however in terms of the implications for markets, history suggests little evidence of more favourable performance under either Democrat or Republican leadership.

More important for equity markets remains the economic climate, consumer confidence and the level of interest rates. Stay focussed on the end game

The second half of the year may see a bit more volatility. The odd bump in the road is normal and shouldn’t concern investors who have a long-term strategy.

this article was prepared as at 30 June 2024 and  provides market commentary for the three-month period ending on that date. to discuss your  investment options please contact Andrew Wyllie, who is an Investment Adviser and Forsyth Barr’s  Christchurch Manager. Andrew can be contacted  regarding portfolio management, fi xed 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 fi nancial advice.

] with Brydie Dale ] Helmores Lawyers

Property sharing agreement

Increasingly we are seeing more than a single household living on the same property, particularly in rural communities where there is no desire (or sometimes ability) to subdivide larger plots of land into separate titles.

The most common form of this arrangement we see is one party occupying a cottage on the property while the other party occupies the larger main home.

This arrangement can provide many people in north Canterbury with financial and lifestyle benefits whether it is assisting adult children into the property market, freeing up some cash for retirement, or simply keeping close to help family.

These property sharing arrangements, while a useful and often cost-effective tool, when not correctly documented can often lead to a variety of issues in regard to the future use of the property.

As these arrangements are typically made between family members, correct documentation is often overlooked at the time of entering these arrangements in favour of a “she’ll be right” attitude.

By the time problems have arisen, disputes can result in large legal bills, and a breakdown in family relationships.

Right at the beginning of a property shar-

ing arrangement, ideally parties should enter into a formal Property Sharing Agreement to document each parties’ rights and obligations moving forward. Having a clear, written agreement outlining everyone’s expectations from the beginning can avoid prolonging unnecessary arguments if relationships were to sour in the future.

You can enter into a Property Sharing Agreement at any point in the property shar-

ing arrangement, however it is simplest earlier in the process, before both parties are tied in to a property interest.

While every situation is unique, the following topics will often be covered in Property Sharing Agreements:

Each party’s actual ownership interest, which can differ from what is recorded on the Record of Title.

Whether all parties have the rights to ac-

cess the whole property, or are there certain areas which are associated with each party. Typically we would expect some areas to be separated out for each party’s exclusive use, and other areas (such as driveways) kept as shared areas.

If the areas of use are not equally divided, it may not be fair for both parties to split all costs, such as rates, equally. Are the two dwellings separately metered for things such as power. If not, how to you apportion costs?

If finance is required, who is responsible for making loan repayments?

What if only one party wants to sell their share. Is the property sold on the open market, or does the other party have the right to purchase?

How does this ownership effect your estate planning? If one party passes, who inherits the deceased’s share. Are there multiple children, not a part of the property sharing agreement that need to be considered?

Property Sharing Agreements are unique to each circumstance and require careful drafting to ensure they are appropriate. We recommend speaking to your solicitor prior to entering any property sharing arrangements.

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] with John Arts

Nutritional medicine for osteoarthritis

Almost everyone over 60 will have joint tissue degeneration caused by osteoarthritis (OA). Unfortunately, there are few medical options outside of surgery and pain relief. This is one health problem where nutritional therapy can be very helpful. My discipline of Nutritional Medicine identifies compounds in food and supplements that can stimulate the bodies joint repair processes. The results can be significant and in many cases life changing.

As an example, I have one client that contacted my last year with pain from hip and knee OA. This restricted him by limiting the exercise he really enjoyed. Now 6 months later he said that the pain had almost gone. He is now exercising and has much improved quality of life.

Inflammation is a major part of OA and can cause more discomfort than actual cartilage loss. OA is a disease of cartilage loss and associated reduction in joint space between the bones of the joint. The main process is the death of specialised cells called chondrocytes that maintain cartilage. Free radical damage and certain enzymes can damage chondrocytes eventually causing them to die. Unfortunately, chondrocytes cannot replicate so when they die, the tiny patch of cartilage it main-

tained starts to degenerate.

The immune system then tries to heal the problem with inflammation, making the problem worse. Extra fluid accumulates in the joint capsule causing stiffness, pain and swelling in some cases.

An anti-inflammatory diet combined with therapeutic levels of chondroitin sulphate, glucosamine sulphate and curcumin from turmeric can help. Of these, chondroitin is by far the most important. To be effective, chondroitin needs to be at 800mg or more. There are only a few joint supplements that have this amount. Most have either none or very little. I guess that this is because of the high cost of quality chondroitin. Feel free to contact me for a copy of my OA programme.

John Arts (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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Dealing with stress and preventing burnout

]Article supplied by Farmstrong

How do you manage unhealthy stress?

Awareness is key. The earlier you recognise the signs of unhealthy stress the better you’ll be able to manage them.

Recovery periods are vital. Daily and weekly ‘down time’ is important as well as taking a holiday after really busy times.

Secondly, come up with a plan. Instead of trying to do everything, it’s about asking yourself what are the one or two top things I need to work on right now? Focus on them and park everything else. Once you’re feeling back in charge and your stress levels go down, some of the other issues bugging you may disappear.

A way to cope with lots of demands is by reducing or delegating them to others. At what point would you consider it more than just ‘calving stress’ and be seeking help?

A general rule of thumb that a person is under unhealthy stress, is when their daily functioning and relationships are being impacted.

For example, if the person doesn’t seem themselves and shows ongoing changes in their normal behaviour and thinking patterns.

When we just keep going without a break

from the ongoing physical or mental demands we are facing, our body finds it hard to keep up and the cracks begin to show.

A catch-up with your GP, a local counsellor, Rural Support Trust worker or supportive friend, can give you some ideas or a plan to get things back on track.

What is burnout and how do you know if you’ve got it?

Burnout is essentially your body hitting the wall and saying, “I’ve had it. You should’ve given me a break and you haven’t.” Your body is letting you know that it’s mentally

and physically exhausted. Signs include:

• low energy and motivation to do even normal everyday tasks

• severe irritability where little things become highly frustrating

• losing your temper easily and often

• inefficiently tackling and completing tasks

• feeling ineffective and that you’re not accomplishing enough.

If some of these look familiar to you, then you may be experiencing burnout or heading towards it.

How do you prevent burnout?

When people are under pressure the things that disappear are often the things that keep us well and prevent us getting burnt out. Continue to:

• socialise with other people

• exercise regularly

• eat well

• continue to learn

• contribute to the community

• get off the farm and do something you enjoy with others.

Building in enjoyable activities is really important. Those are the things that give us more coping space and keep us feeling on top of things.

For more on how to maintain your mental health  wellbeing on the farm go to: www.farmstrong.co.nz. Canterbury Farming thanks Farmstrong for being able  to reproduce this article.

Smart spraying saves dollars

Optimising spray applications will save money on chemicals and do a better job, according to a leading sprayer tester and operator.

] by Kent Caddick

And from what he’s seen, there’s widespread room for improvement in contract and farmeroperator practice.

“The sprayer is the most important piece of equipment on an arable farm today,” Jeremy Talbot of Talbot Agriculture said.

“The biggest issue is the choice of nozzle. With the same water rate different nozzles do very different things.”

Talbot says air-induction nozzles are used far too widely and many operators would do better to use standard flat fan nozzles, or preferably a twin-cap with two flatfan orifices.

“You get an eight-fold increase in the number of drops and four times the deposition on the crop or target weeds, and for most chemicals that’s where they need to be. If they hit the soil they’re wasted.”

Another problem, particularly where contractors are concerned, is using too little water. Fewer fill-ups means a considerable increase in area that can be covered in a day, hence why contractors are keen to reduce volumes, Talbot says.

“But it comes back to coverage. If you’re using less water there are fewer drops per hectare and you’ll get less chemical onto the target.”

In Europe, some countries have introduced legislation specifying a minimum of 150 litres/ha of water be used as it’s now accepted low water volumes have hastened the onset of herbicide resistance in certain weed populations.

“Only two countries are still using air induction nozzles and very low water rates widely, and that’s Australia and UK.”

Australia’s and the UK’s herbicide resistant grassweed problems are well documented and Talbot says it’s only thanks to the diverse rotations on most New Zealand arable farms that similar issues haven’t arisen here yet.

Driving too fast increases drift, which is another reason why some contractors favour low drift nozzles, says Talbot.

He advocates a maximum of 12kmh, or down to 10kmh if there is drift, slowing to 8-9kmh to turn on headlands.

“Spraying should be a smooth, non-stressful job.”

Spray tips

• Don’t speed: increases drift, boom bounce, yaw, and in/out problems.

• Beware low-drift nozzles: efficacy compromised.

• Keep water volume up: 150 litres/ha minimum.

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

• Twin-cap nozzles help hit both sides of target.

• Remove PPE before entering cab.

• Right nozzle, speed and volume = less chemical cost.

Information for this article was supplied by Talbot Agriculture.

Photo: Lincoln Agritech

Striking the right balance with RMA reform

You’ll likely be aware that the Government is proposing major changes to the Resource Management Act (RMA) and intends to eventually replace it completely.

]

by Craig Pauling

] ECan Deputy Chair

The Resource Management (Freshwater and Other Matters) Amendment Bill, introduced in June, is part of these changes.

The Bill proposes to change or remove consent requirements for some activities. These include requirements for consents for intensive winter grazing, coal mining, and stock exclusion as set out in the National Environmental Standard for Freshwater and Stock Exclusion Regulations.

As a regional council, processing resource consents is a key part of our work. In fact, we process and hold the most resource consents of any regional council in the country –over 27,000.

Some of the changes being proposed may have a considerable impact on the way we operate – and on the Waitaha/Canterbury landscape in general.

We’ve welcomed the opportunity to provide feedback through a written submission and I also spoke at Select Committee hearings on July 9.

Our overarching view is that while cutting red tape in some areas does have merit, the benefits of targeted and proportionate regulation must not be overlooked.

Potential opportunities – and pitfalls

I firmly believe that a healthy environment, thriving economic activity, resilient commu-

nities and effective regulation must co-exist.

I also believe that while RMA changes are important, we don’t have to start from scratch.

Many years of work went into the Natural and Built Environment Act 2023, which was repealed in December. There were some good things in there. For example, the RMA definition of river ‘bed’ was amended to better reflect Waitaha’s braided river systems –providing a new starting point for this.

There was also a strong focus on delivering improved outcomes as well as managing the effects of an activity. I think this approach is worth keeping, but there is still room for improvement.

As our submission notes, some proposals will help reduce the ‘regulatory burden’ –which is the overall aim of the Bill – but other changes are needed to achieve this.

Key points of our submission include:

• Removing duplication between central government regulations and regional council plans and rules. Frameworks developed in Waitaha have often provided the template for central government approaches, resulting in duplication for marginal environmental benefit.

• Policy proposals should have input from regional councils. We understand what’s

important to their communities and know what it takes to make policy work on-theground

• Better value for money could be achieved through investing funds and resource into established council programmes, such as helping us build on our Farm Environment Plans, rather than replicating these with national systems

• The fundamental concept and principles of Te Mana o te Wai (recognising the vital importance of water) remain sound, even though the concept has evolved over time. We are committed to working with mana whenua and alongside communities on this.

I think most people would agree that removing ineffective layers of regulation makes sense from an environmental, social, cultural and economic standpoint.

However, for our whole community, targeted regulation acts as an important check and balance – ensuring we are looking after our taiao and that our natural resources remain healthy for current and future generations. I think, if we get the balance right, we can ensure that both people and our environment can thrive into the future. Let’s not waste this opportunity.

You can read our full submission on our website: www.ecan.govt.nz (search ‘submissions’).

Vegetation falling on lines is one of the leading causes of power outages on our network. Visit oriongroup.co.nz/trees for tree regulations, advice and to find out about your responsibilities as a property owner.

We recommend using trained professionals and if you have any questions,  call us anytime on 0800 363 9898. We’re here to help.

Modelling suggests pest plant habitat likely to increase

Pest plants such as nassella tussock could become more widespread in future years, as Canterbury becomes warmer and drier.

] by Laurence smith

] Principal Biosecurity Advisor, ] ECan

Landowners might want to think about actions they can take now to help protect their assets down the track.

Looking ahead

While many of New Zealand’s invasive plant species are already in Canterbury, longer growing seasons and seeding periods, fewer frost days, and a more suitable habitat means they could eventually feature more heavily on our landscape.

During drought, the pasture opens up thereby creating more bare patches and enabling weeds to germinate seed come autumn. These pests then establish on those bare areas, outcompeting desirable pasture.

Some emerging species (both plants and animals) that have not been much of an issue in previous decades, including so-called ‘sleeper weeds’, may become a problem. We may see an increase in woodier species, like gorse and broom with seeds that live for longer or remain dormant in the soil, and other prolific seeders such as exotic grasses or herbaceous species.

In addition, pests currently contained in one local area might spread as conditions become favourable. For example, the ability for velvet leaf seed to germinate in soil currently stops somewhere around Mid to South Canterbury, but the line will likely move south.

What the modelling shows

Scientific mapping we’ve commissioned, incorporating research from Dr Graeme Bourdot’s team at AgResearch, shows that 60 years from now, far more land will be climatically suitable for both Chilean needle grass and nassella tussock.

This modelling suggests that by 2080, climatically suitable habitat for Chilean needle grass could increase by 60 percent nationally, with the bulk of that rise in Mid-Canterbury and South Canterbury.

Simply put, there’ll be more opportunity for these pests to invade land. The extent of that invasion will largely depend on human activity. How the land is managed will heavily influence a weed’s ability to take hold in that environment.

That’s why this type of modelling is important – it allows farmers and biosecurity officers to know where to focus preventive

measures, such as putting surveillance programmes in place.

More on Dr Bourdot’s research on the threat from Chilean needle grass can be found at Agresearch.co.nz, using the search term ‘Sleeper weed’.

Preventing the spread

Sensible grazing management is a factor in keeping weed pests at bay. For example, both nassella tussock and Chilean needle grass favour overgrazed, dry pastures.

If land is overgrazed and then hit by drought, the seeds of these species, and of many other weeds, have a much greater chance of establishing new plants that facilitate local spread.

Wider spread depends on the dispersal of seeds and other propagules and can occur in many ways.

For example, seeds can be carried on machinery, on animals, in river gravel aggregate,

Modelling the future: Pest plants such as nassella tussock could become more widespread in Canterbury as the climate changes.

with crop seeds, in flood water, and by people.

Preventative farm biosecurity practices include cleaning all vehicles before entry and after exit and cleaning clothing, boots, machinery, and other equipment after each use (chemicals may be required).

It’s also imperative to check stock or hay prior to bringing it onto your property, including knowing where it came from and what the likelihood of pest-spread is. Educating contractors on good farm biosecurity practices is also important.

Who to contact if you find something

If you do find a new pest or an outbreak of a particular pest on your property, get in touch by emailing biosecurity@ecan.govt.nz. The team will put you in touch with someone who can provide advice and/or work with you to take measures to stop the pest(s) spreading further on your own property or onto others.

High hopes for laser weeding system after successful trials

Technology which uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to hunt weeds and zap them with a laser has won praise from industry leaders after successful trialling.

] Article supplied by ] AgResearch

A prototype of the Map and Zap® system, designed by a group of AgResearch scientists and engineers led by Dr Kioumars Ghamkhar, was put through its paces at a recent demonstration at a Canterbury vineyard in front of interested parties.

The system is designed to be used in different agricultural settings, and AgResearch is now looking for potential investors to take this technology to New Zealand and overseas markets.

“It’s not to replace chemicals, but it’s going to reduce the use of chemicals over time,” Dr Ghamkhar said.

The trained AI can distinguish between different species of weed, so that it targets only those plants that are unwanted. It then “guides the laser to the weed and kills the weed”.

The Map and Zap unit can be fitted to the likes of a tractor or robot to suit the food pro-

duction system it is operating in, such as a vineyard, an orchard, a field growing vegetables or pasture.

Wine industry business adviser Heath Stafford, who was among those to see Map and Zap in action at the vineyard, said an integrated approach is needed in weed management and technology like this can help “fill a gap”.

“We can’t get rid of herbicides immediately, if at all, but we do need to embark on a technology pathway that largely eliminates the use of herbicides,” Stafford said.

“If we can prove (Map and Zap) here, I think it’s got a fantastic chance of being successful on the global stage.”

Australasia’s Managing director for agritech firm CropX, Eitan Dan, said he impressed by what he saw in person at the vineyard demonstration.

“I think this is the exact thing when you are saying `precision agriculture’. You are dealing precisely with a problem without harming everything around it,” Dan said.

so-

KiwiNet commercialisation programme manager Michelle Polglase said there is a lot of opportunities globally for “clean technologies” which address the issue of soil health.

A video showing Map and Zap® in action can be viewed at: youtu.be/yiByGS-SiBU.

“Map and Zap is potentially a great

lution in the likes of the Australian and the United States markets.”

Environmentally friendly: Dr Kioumars Ghamkhar says the Map and Zap weeding system will help to reduce the use of chemicals over time.

Versatile: The Map and Zap unit can be fitted to the likes of a tractor or robot to suit the food production system it is operating in, such as a vineyard, an orchard, a field growing vegetables or pasture.

Correct soil fertility critical for optimal plant growth

There are 16 nutrients required by plants, 13 of these nutrients are obtained from the soil.

]Article supplied by DairyNZ

There are five nutrients N, P, K, S and Mg (pumice soils) that are added to soils in fertilisers. The remaining nutrients are abundant on most New Zealand soils.

Assessing nutrient status

It is important to measure the current soil nutrient status to assess whether a farm is in the maintenance or development stage. Soil testing and taking into account fertiliser history is the only way to assess nutrient status.

Capital fertiliser inputs can be much greater than the maintenance input, especially if a rapid increase in the soil nutrient status is required.

Soil testing

A robust soil fertility-monitoring programme is the best way to monitor nutrients in topsoil of any farm.

Fertiliser costs are a major investment and needs to be monitored. Even in the maintenance stage, more precise rates can be calculated from establishing trends in soil test levels over time through the use of annual soil testing.

Pasture testing

Pasture testing is a back up to soil testing. While soil testing determines available soil nutrient status, pasture analysis should be used to assess how much nutrient has been taken up from a fertiliser application and check trace element status.

There are two key reasons to test and analyse pasture samples:

1. Concerns about animal health

• Insufficient concentrations of: Mg, Na, Cu, Co and Se,

• Excessively high concentrations of K, Mo and Mn.

2. Clover Nutrition

• Clovers have a higher requirement of all nutrients compared to grasses

• They are a sensitive indicator of underlying soil fertility.

Autumn pasture tips

• All rough growth on paddocks should be taken right off. If you have mature cattle, or can borrow some, make them work to clean it all off, especially tufts of cocksfoot.

• If this leaves a lot of dead rubbish, remove it as it’s always a source of fungal growth.

• What the cattle won’t eat, take off with a slasher or weedeater. If you don’t, fresh green regrowth will be slow.

• After this clean up, give the paddocks a light chain harrowing to spread dung pats.

• Slash off any beds of Californian thistles (just before it rains if possible) dead docks and ragwort and plan to treat them early next spring. Lack of early action

means their seed will be with you for a long time.

• Make a stand-off area for cattle during wet periods in winter to avoid pugging.

• After an extended summer dry spell, you may have to consider some ‘pasture renovation’. This can be expensive so seek professional help.

• Get a soil test done and seek advice on what fertiliser is needed.

Test: A robust soil fertility-monitoring programme is the best way to monitor nutrients in topsoil.

N-mitigation research needs to move on

Some types of pasture may better reduce nitrogen leaching on New Zealand dairy farms than plantain according to a new scientific review.

] by Kathy Davis

The review recommends that future research into pasture-based N-mitigation tools focus on other plant species which share plantain’s lower dry matter content but grow more feed, especially during the cool season; last longer and are easier to manage.

Authored by a team of leading pasture scientists across both academia and industry, the review has just been published in the New Zealand Journal of Agricultural Research, and examines 15 years of plantain research in New Zealand.

It finds little evidence that a visual presence of 30% plantain in pastures will beneficially reduce N leaching and says higher levels of plantain accentuate pasture management problems.

“We propose that the current recommendations around the use of plantain should be re-examined, and that opportunities presented by alternative forage species and pasture management practices should be investigated to provide alternative approaches,” the authors say.

They highlight chicory and tetraploid hybrid ryegrass as two key alternative forages that merit further study for N-mitigation.

These could have a similar effect on N leaching and be easier to deploy at scale

than plantain, with higher yield, better persistence and higher cow intake.

Review co-author Dr Tony Conner, Lincoln Genetics Ltd, is a plant geneticist and former manager of forage science at AgResearch, with a long career in applied plant science in New Zealand.

He believes forages other than plantain have not been adequately studied for their potential value as N-mitigation tools on New Zealand dairy farms.

“Clearly plantain increases animal urination, and we suspect that’s because it has a relatively high water content. Obviously if the animal is taking in more liquid, it urinates more,” Conner said.

“But there are other forages with a higher water content than diploid perennial ryegrass that might perform equally as well as plantain, including chicory and tetraploid hybrid ryegrasses, and I don’t believe these have been considered enough, given that plantain does not perform well in pastures.”

Conner said the new review of all the research done on plantain so far can benefit both scientists and farmers seeking future solutions to one of the most pressing environmental challenges facing the New Zealand dairy industry.

For scientists, the review highlights opportunities for improved experimental design

of field trials such as those used to support claims of plantain’s effect on N leaching.

The review found many research studies supporting the beneficial impact of plantain do not stand up against scientific scrutiny associated with methodology, and data interpretation.

Connor said for farmers, the review is a chance to take a second look at N-mitigation strategies.

“They’re caught in the middle here, because there’s been a lot of publicity about plantain, and the data is very hard to dissect.

“I’m hoping this will raise some questions in farmers’ minds.”

Alternative: A new scientific review highlights tetraploid hybrid ryegrass (pictured) and chicory as two key alternative forages to plantain which merit further study for N-mitigation.

ther review entitled ‘An examination of the ability of plantain (Plantago lanceolata L) to mitigate nitrogen leaching from pasture systems’ has been authored by Dr Colin Eady, Barenbrug; Dr Conner; Adjunct Professor Jacqueline Rowarth, Lincoln University; Dr Graeme Coles, Victoria University; Dr Matthew Deighton, Cropmark seeds, and Professor Derrick Moot, Lincoln university.

It can be found online at www.tandfonline.com/ journals/tnza20

Fernside 218 Boundary Road

Passionately spreading the word

More than 100 groundspreaders from around New Zealand met in Christchurch in July to discuss the issues and opportunities for the ground-based nutrient application industry ahead of the upcoming spreading season.

Article supplied by Groundspread NZ

Groundspread NZ President Simon Pedersen opened the day with a discussion focused on achieving a quality spread.

This session generated a lot of conver-

sation around the increased use of blended fertilisers and the incompatibility of some products, which impacts the ability of an operator to achieve the quality spread that they are trying to attain each time that they jump into their truck.

Australian Fertiliser Services Association President Shane Dellavedova said that granule hardness was a massive shift in quality parameters across the ditch, as the dust caused by products crushing in spinners was often the cause of striping issues.

Representatives from the major fertiliser co-ops were present and showed a keen interest to work with the industry in ensuring that their products were able to spread as intended when they left their stores, and it was clear that more education about blends and physical properties with both farmers and those recommending products was critical in achieving a quality spread for their shared clients.

The Fertiliser Quality Council then socialised their new Spreadmark Code of Practise (COP) with attendees and highlighted some of the new requirements for groundspreaders in this document.

The Spreadmark COP focuses on addressing the environmental impacts of spreading fertiliser. What was abundantly clear during this session was that there is a whole industry out there who are passionate about the environment and doing their job well to ensure the best agronomical and environmental outcomes in the work that they undertake.

At the 68th AGM, John Schultz was awarded Life Membership of Groundspread NZ for his immense contribution to the Association and industry. John’s 20+ year involvement

has seen him serve in numerous roles and he is highly regarded by all members, evident by the standing ovation he received when being presented his Life Membership.

The sixth annual industry awards were then celebrated in the evening at a black-tie gala held at the Rydges Hotel.

Groundspreaders are typically the first step in ensuring on-farm productivity, by spreading nutrients accurately and evenly, using the latest technology, finely calibrated vehicles, and highly trained operators, groundspreaders help farmers and growers get the best out of their nutrient spend.

Congratulations to the following individuals on being recognised this year:

• Graymont Health and Safety Award: Jessie Freer (Sandfords Spreading)

• Ballance Agri-Nutrients President’s Award: Graeme Martin

• Keith Andrews Innovation Award: James Stenton (Mainland Spreading)

• Ravensdown Young Achiever’s Award: Nicole Furniss (Te Awamutu Bulk Spreaders)

For the first time, there was another large group celebrated at the awards gala; 19 groundspreaders from around NZ have been involved in the GroundED leadership training programme in 2024 and have gathered many skills along the way that will help them in leadership roles in both their professional and personal lives.

Revolutionising soil health for farmers

Here at Optimise, we often ponder crucial questions: How well is your soil converting the calcium in your lime applications? If calcium is vital for soil function and plant nutrition, why isn’t it a staple in annual fertiliser programmes? And how can we make applying calcium more affordable for farmers?

] Article supplied by ] CP Lime Solutions

For Canterbury farmers, addressing these questions can lead to significant improvements in soil health and crop productivity. Optimise fine particle fertilisers provide effective solutions.

The importance of particle size

Particle size is a key determinant of a lime’s effectiveness. Halving the average particle diameter doubles the exposed surface area, significantly improving availability.

By micronising limestone, we enhance its ability to react in the soil. While larger particles in traditional agricultural lime (aglime) last longer, they offer little agronomic benefit unless they break down and release calcium and carbonate into the soil solution.

Larger particles can influence bulk soil pH in lab tests, but in the paddock, they are of little benefit until fully broken down.

Enhanced nutrient availability

Improved calcium availability leads to better nutrient availability, biological activity, and legume performance. Calcium optimises soil, plant, and animal function by en-

hancing fertiliser performance and building soil resilience.

It stimulates photosynthesis and increases nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus absorption and utilisation, improving plant and crop quality while feeding essential soil biology.

Incorporating effective calcium into an annual fertiliser regime enhances the soil and plants’ ability to utilise all fertiliser inputs.

Cost-effectiveness for Canterbury farmers

Applying calcium must be cost-effective. With increased calcium availability due to reduced lime particle size, required volumes can be significantly reduced.

If you typically apply 2T/ha of aglime, you can achieve the same impact with as little as 200-250kg/ha of finely ground aglime, in the right conditions, with far fewer associated costs.

Bundling these fine particles into a tight package simplifies transport and spreading costs. In some parts of Canterbury, where soil management can be challenging, these savings are significant. This is how we optimise calcium conversion efficiency for your farm.

Why choose Optimise?

Central to the effectiveness of Optimise is its comprehensive blend of nutrients tailored to the specific needs of pastures.

From calcium and magnesium carbonate for soil pH balance to sulphur, and humates, each component plays a vital role in nurturing pasture health and maximising pasture quality.

Optimise empowers farmers to achieve optimal yields while minimising environmental impact.

Integration with other fertilisers

Optimise can be blended with other fertilisers such as Urea, SoA, DAP and Potassium Sulphate/Chloride allowing for a one-pass application and saving on spreading costs.

Tiny Powerhouses

Central to the effectiveness of Optimise is its comprehensive blend of nutrients tailored to the specifi c needs of pastures.

This integration ensures that crops and pastures receive a balanced supply of essential nutrients, promoting robust growth and higher yields.

Conclusion: Optimise for Canterbury

For Canterbury farmers, Optimise fine particle fertiliser offers a comprehensive solution to soil health challenges.

By enhancing calcium availability, improving nutrient uptake, and reducing application costs, Optimise helps farmers achieve optimal yields and sustainable farming practices.

Embrace this innovative approach to soil management and witness the transformation in your paddocks and pastures.

Pelletised fertiliser, the perfect energy source for farming success. Every one delivers nutrients precisely while reducing waste. The little guys can also be tailored to your farm’s needs. Discover how potent pellets can fuel your soil at cplimesolutions.net.nz

More competition needed in the market

One of New Zealand’s most renowned experts in soil fertility, Dr Gordon Rajendram has issued an urgent call for greater competition and innovation within New Zealand’s fertiliser industry to bring product prices down.

] by Phillip Quay

Dr Rajendram, who is a prominent speaker at rural industry forums throughout New Zealand, says his observations highlight a severe lack of competition leading to ongoing high fertiliser prices, stifled innovation, and a worrying lack of change in the fertiliser sector.

“The fertiliser market in New Zealand is dominated by a few key players, resulting in limited choices for consumers and consistently high prices,” Dr Rajendram said.

“This monopoly-like situation sharpens awareness but also makes companies lazy, relying on their established market positions rather than striving for improvement.

“Many of these companies are selling the same products they did in the 1950s, with little to no innovation. Super phosphate, has done more for New Zealand’s economy than any politician ever has, but it’s time for change.”

The current market shows fertiliser prices still above pre-Covid levels, with super phosphate approximately at $425 per tonne and urea at $795 per tonne. Farmers are now starting to look for alternatives due to these high prices and question marks over environmental aspects of traditional fertiliser products.

“In the past, it was more about growing as much pasture as possible. Now, it’s also important to ensure whatever you apply doesn’t run off and leach, causing environmental issues,” Rajendram said.

“This shift in focus from merely growing pasture or crops to keeping nutrients in the soil requires more efficient, low phosphate, and slow-release fertilisers that are less water soluble.

“A prime example of the benefits of competition can be seen in the dairy industry, where the presence of multiple companies has led to significant advancements in product quality and efficiency.

“The fertiliser industry could learn a lot from this. Innovation is essential for addressing the evolving needs of modern agriculture, particularly in a country like New Zealand, where farming is a cornerstone of the economy.”

He said currently, the focus seems to be on maintaining the status quo but the agricultural sector requires fertiliser that are not only effective but also environmentally sustainable.

“Without competition, there is little incentive for any company to move forward and innovate.”

Rajendram emphasised the need for urgent industry transformation to prevent it from becoming a sunset industry.

“Competition sharpens everyone’s prices and forces companies to offer better products.

“In conclusion, the New Zealand fertiliser industry needs a shake-up. More competition will lead to better products, fairer prices, and ultimately, a stronger agricultural sector.

“It’s time for fertiliser companies to stop resting on their laurels and start driving the innovation that our farmers need,” Rajendram said.

Bredal Spreader mounted onto a 4x4 isuzu mini spreader set up for tram lining in crops capable of spreading up to 32 metres. Servicing

BOAGS CONTRACTING

8 Rolleston Street, Rakaia Prompt and efficient

Mark 0274 383 846

FARMERS

Big call: soil fertility expert Dr gordon Rajendram is calling for  greater competition and innovation within New Zealand’s fertiliser industry.

How history provides useful perspective

The fact that permanent grazed pastures grew significantly more total feed over a twelve-month period prior to the widespread use of nitrogen is, for most, an uncomfortable one.

] by Peter Burton

It is largely dismissed by farmers and advisors, however it remains a fact and those that are prepared to at least consider it a possibility place themselves in a position to outperform their peers and prosper financially as a result.

Farming is a competitive industry with those in the top 5% enjoying financial benefits not available to those battling to break even, and that’s not a new situation.

We protect ourselves from self-examination by believing that anything new is better than what has gone previously however lurking in the depths of our consciousness is a little doubt, and that’s essential.

Economies have strengthened and societies prospered over the last 50 years as new technologies have been adopted, but growth is seldom linear.

There are always bumps, bruises, and stubbed toes along the way with those learning from the pain now well placed to enjoy a prosperous future.

Even a modest increase in annual pasture production, from say 11 tonne DM/ha to 12 tonne is worthwhile when achieved at no extra cost.

With an increase in volume comes an increase in quality with higher energy levels, less nitrate, better mineral uptake resulting in improved animal performance.

Reducing costs provides a double whammy. Less time spent with poor performing animals provides time for extra observation, a critical component of superior performance.

Scheduling time to monitor pasture growth is always valuable, it’s not just data collection that’s important, it’s how it is interpreted that is key.

There is little that can be done to lift pasture performance between now and the critical second half of September. That’s already been determined by pasture management, and soil fertility inputs in autumn.

However, a lift in pasture grown from November onwards can be promoted by tailoring a spring nutrient application that favours clover growth.

The priority is providing extra plant available calcium as clovers contain 3 – 4 times more calcium than grasses.

Synthetic nitrogen strips calcium from the soil so withholding nitrogen is essential. It’s also important because clovers fix nitrogen in response to steadily declining plant available levels.

Soil temperatures above 20℃ retard grass growth however those same conditions stimulate clover.

They harvest more sunlight, creating energy rich feed ensuring higher levels of production and more rapid weight gain.

A clover dense mat reduces the loss of moisture during prolonged periods of hot

weather and should conditions be kind, high quality nutritionally dense hay can be harvested.

CalciZest from Functional Fertiliser was formulated to stimulate clover growth. It’s a solid product containing soft carbons, calcium, and a wide range of selected microbes. It’s typically applied at 400kg/ha through conventional ground spread equipment and

Growing: A lift in pasture grown from November onwards can be promoted by tailoring a spring nutrient application that favours clover growth.

helps ensure, along with sound grazing management, a lift in both summer and early autumn pasture growth.

Essential phosphorus, potassium, sulphur, and trace elements may be added as required.

For more information call Peter on 0800 843 809 or 027 495 0041.

National fencing event in Rangiora

Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand (FCANZ), the industry body for fencing contractors, is holding its annual National Fencing Field Day at the Rangiora Showgrounds this month.

]Article supplied by FCANZ

FCANZ National Fencing Field Day will run from 10am to 3pm on Wednesday, August 7.

of good stay work and footings, among other topics.

National Fencing Field Day showcases the latest fencing products, tools and machinery for rural, residential and security fencing, allowing attendees to see equipment and techniques in action, watch industry best practice demonstrations, and participate in a wide range of competitions.

“Our mission is to raise the profile of fencing as a recognised trade that embraces best practice, adherence to quality standards and ongoing professional development,” FCANZ President Phil Cornelius.

“Our National Fencing Field Day helps support this, not just for our members, but for anyone who builds fences.”

Offered as part of the annual FCANZ Conference programme, the National Fencing Field Day is open to the public and all those who have a vested interest in fencing best practice. This year also sees the inclusion of a Secondary School Fencing Competition. It will be the first time that a Secondary School competition like this has been offered, and the 12 teams registered are keen to take the honour of winning this inaugural event.

There will be various demonstrations throughout the day, and Canterbury local Steve Williamson will be on-site discussing and demonstrating fencing techniques, including electrics, connections, the importance

For those who are driving, a Best Ute Toolbox competition will once again recognise the pride that Fencing Contractors have in their Utes and the importance of a well-organized toolbox to service business needs. The two categories of FCANZ members and the public will be hotly contested, with prizes from Milwaukee for the winner of each.

Rural Mental Health advocate Craig ‘Wiggy Wiggins of the Whatever with Wiggy charitable trust will be onsite all day with the Carr Family Foundation’s Rural Health & Wellness van. Here attendees can receive a free wellness check from a registered nurse or have a chat with Wiggy about any mental health concerns. The Health & Wellness van visits rural events around the country offering free checkups which look at key wellness indicators, such as weight, blood sugar, blood pressure, resting pulse rate and BMI. They believe that “Life is too short to sit back and say if only I’d had a check-up.”

FCANZ National Fencing Field Day at Rangiora Showgrounds is open from 10am to 3pm on Entry fees are: General Public $20.00, Students (5 – 18 years) $5.00, FCANZ Members $10.00, under 5’s free. There is no charge for FCANZ conference delegates.

For more information visit: www.fcanz.org.nz/ national-fencing-field-day.

Need to know: National Fencing  Field Day attendees watch a  demonstration on the relative strength of different footing types.

Shipping costs remain strong

The tide has turned in China with demand at a low point and prices under downward pressure. Thankfully as at mid-July, not to a significant degree.

] with Allan Laurie MNZIF

] Laurie Forestry Ltd

In line with expectations, China demand for softwood logs and fibre has slackened with the mid-summer season seeing big rain events and very high temperatures.

This sees construction projects slow down as workers taking a longer midday break whilst persistent rain is impacting concrete being poured.

Some of the negative impact of seasonal challenges is being offset by a continuing increase in lumber usage for non-construction end uses.

So much more of our wonderful Radiata pine is being used for the likes edge glue panels, figure jointing componentry, mouldings, doors and furniture, with the primary market being domestic consumption.

Meanwhile, it is apparent China also believes the incredibly ridiculous Donald Trump will prevail as the new US leader. We are seeing elevated volumes of product heading to the US and other warehouses to avoid the anticipated tariff impositions. This is also biting into the Handy Class vessel fleet, thus reducing the short-term availability of ships for the NZ Log trade.

Daily China consumption is running at about 50,000 cubic metres. To put this into

context, with New Zealand 80% of all log supply currently, this is just over one fully loaded vessel, leaving a NZ port every day, six days a week with NZ logs. Unfortunately, NZ forestry Inc has once again ignored customer demand, sending 5 to 6 more vessels in June/July than the market wanted.

The unsold inventory is starting to build on China ports, albeit not to a significant degree as at mid-July. The issue is the market is extremely fragile with buyers being super cautious and very reluctant to take any cargo until they see how the post rainy season goes.

LCs have become hard to get with a traditional 3.8m long log now being very hard to sell. Any sales at all are strongly favouring longer 5.2m and 5.9m long logs which could potentially bite into NZ domestic sawmill volumes.

China domestic prices are holding reasonably well in most regions, certainly not increasing. The effective current breakeven point for traders to make margin on NZ logs is about US$115 per cubic metre.

The current selling price for NZ logs is US$122 per cubic metre. I do not think you will need your abacus to figure out what happens next.

Erstwhile, and the old tale of history repeating, rather incredibly, in early July we

have one of the largest NZ sellers trying to push China buyers to US$126 per cubic metre. Customers sent him home with his tail between his legs no sales, no LC’s most of us in NZ gazing with wonderment at the stupidity.

Why you would want to push prices higher when demand is low and all economic indicators pointing downward, beggars’ belief.

The seller has since returned to China offering at low US$120s and still no sales and no LC’s. Most commentators believe somewhere just below US$120 will be in our near future.

With the FOREX drop NZ side this should see prices remain flat for August NZ at wharf gate sales. But, as I said, things are very fragile with the crystal ball is extremely cloudy.

Shipping costs have remained frustratingly strong, with ship owners pointing to plenty of cargo options out of Australia and North-

ern Hemisphere. If NZ charterers do not yield to unsatisfactory prices levels, vessels will become short supplied and the cost of getting a log from NZ to China, even higher.

For the most part, commentators are suggesting it will be September before we see prices swing and that is tempered with a number of caveats.

World events are going to be extremely interesting over the next six months and NZ food and fibre growers might yet emerge as a significant beneficiary.

I suggest watch this space, in particular keep your eye on the economic entwine of Russia and China.

As always, please remember the thoroughly important message, “despite the challenges, 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.”

We’ve spent 30 years being wrong

Since 1990 we’ve worked in the belief that agriculture, particularly pastoral farming, would steadily embrace alternative practises when they were shown to be beneficial. And we’ve been wrong.

] with Peter Burton

However, the technology we’ve known to be the best for our pastoral farming industry is now, little by little, being accepted by mainstream.

The frustration is that a generation of farmers have missed out on the benefits and the providers have battled away with little reward, but it is now time to park all of that and embrace a move forward.

An important concept is that everything is linked. Steadily lifting annual pasture production, improved animal health, efficient plant energy formation, carbon sequestration, and better utilisation of nutrient all come together in a single package.

When one aspect improves so do all others and over time under astute daily management, they build on each other and the concern over what’s going to go pear shaped today dissipates and we can look forward to the next step up.

Pastoral farming, at its heart, is the production of protein via the energy conversion process of photosynthesis.

It’s a complex procedure that occurs naturally and one that man has been unable to replicate, the reason for there being no alternative.

Pastoral farming has persisted for thousands of years and will continue to do so, and we can rightly feel proud of being part of such a beneficial and noble industry.

It is also under permanent grazed pasture that carbon is most rapidly sequestered and therefore should be encouraged, particularly in sensitive catchment areas.

It’s how it’s carried out that becomes a critical component of the way forward and efficient use our natural resources is essential.

Over millions of years there’s been a steady loss of mineral from land to sea, a process that man has had no hand in.

Through land movement minerals have been compacted and what once accumulated on the seabed has become inland deposits.

Golden Bay dolomite is a case in point. Comprised of 24% calcium and 11% magnesium, both in the carbonate form, it’s a valuable and at present an underutilised resource.

Nitrogen whether in the synthetic form or fixed naturally by clover steadily removes calcium from pastoral soils. To replace it lime is usually applied however in intensive dairy there is also a requirement for magnesium.

Dolomite is the logical solution and one

the farming industry has control of. Applied once a year at a rate of 250kg/ha there’s a steady lift in plant available magnesium without a reduction in the calcium content.

The result is a marked reduction in calcium/magnesium related metabolic disorders, particularly in spring. The requirement for additional supplementation via in line dispenser or dusting drops significantly.

There’s an increasing demand for bagged dolomite to put in bins as a free access mineral.

Animals that have a requirement quickly identify and eat only the amount necessary to maintain optimum health. It may be applied at any time and a late spring early summer application provides a welcome reduction in animal health costs, more nitrogen fixed free of charge, and a reduction in the amount of lime required.

For more information call Peter on 027 495 0041 or  0800 436 566.

Under used: golden Bay dolomite is comprised of 24% calcium and  11% magnesium, both in the carbonate form, making it a valuable  and, at present, an underutilised resource.

A revolutionary breakthrough in concrete pavement technology

Canzac, a pioneer in sustainable infrastructure solutions, proudly announces the launch of Rombus, a revolutionary hybrid, flexible and rigid concrete pavement technology.

]

Advertorial supplied by Canzac

This innovative advancement signifies a substantial leap forward in eco-conscious concrete construction practices, offering unmatched strength, durability, and adaptability across a spectrum of applications, optimising concrete pavements and slabs.

The versatility of Rombus is expansive, catering to an array of construction applications. From concrete hardstands, equipment yards, rural pads, apron slabs, cow sheds, driveways, pathways, carparks and beyond.

Rombus’s adaptability positions it as the premier choice for projects seeking efficiency and longevity while meeting a substantial reduction in carbon emissions.

The Rombus System optimises productivity, is very durable and has low maintenance properties – reducing long term maintenance costs and ensuring longevity of the wearing surface.

Boasting an impressive load-bearing capacity of 100Mpa when filled with a 32Mpa mix design concrete, Rombus establishes a new industry benchmark. 5.4kgs and 100% recycled plastic per m2, at only 40mm thick, the amount of concrete needed per grid is decreased.

Rombus offers a wide range of benefits over traditional concrete slab and pavement products. No edge formwork or fixing pegs are required. No reinforcing mesh or rebar

The Rombus Grid: Creating a cleaner greener future with the concrete industry by introducing a revolutionary rapid deployment recycled plastic grid system that’s stronger, faster, cheaper and greener than traditional methods.

and no saw cutting. Furthermore, concrete trucks can drive on the robust grid eliminating concrete pump costs.

Simple and fast to deploy, the Rombus grid can be installed over an existing surface or a prepared base course layer. Once installed, the system is very durable.

“Rombus represents not only concrete pavement technology but a pivotal shift towards sustainability in concrete construction but underscores our steadfast

commitment to environmental stewardship,” Lance Canute, Founder of Canzac, says. Engineered to surpass expectations, Rombus is sure to set a new precedent within the concrete construction realm.

For further information on how Rombus can contribute  to the success of your projects, please contact Canzac  today. Contact Lance Canute at lance@canzac.com or phone 0274 330 307

‘

Rombus represents a pivotal shift towards sustainability in concrete construction.

Lance Canute Canzac Founder

Paving the future for New Zealand dairy

Opportunities for passionate, future-focused farmers to apply their governance experience are available at DairyNZ, with the Board of Directors nominations now open.

]Article supplied by DairyNZ Levy-paying dairy farmers with an interest in being a DairyNZ director are encouraged to apply with nominations open until 12 noon, August 9.

This year nominations are called for two farmer-elected DairyNZ Board of Director positions and one Directors’ Remuneration Committee member position.

DairyNZ chair Jim van der Poel said farmer-elected directors with previous governance or leadership experience bring diverse experience and insights to the board table.

“It is an exciting time to be involved with DairyNZ, as our new strategy sharpens our focus on the future, to better meet the needs of farmers and our sector,” Van der Poel said.

“New directors will connect and engage with farmers, stakeholders and policy makers to support the execution of the strategy.

Ideal candidates will preferably have a strong understanding of farm systems, research, policy and advocacy. Good networks, strong business and finance skills, along with governance experience.

“Both DairyNZ’s Board and staff are passionate about the sector and progressing the new strategy, and we want people who share this enthusiasm and interest to apply,” says Jim.

Two farmer director positions are open, with Jim van der Poel stepping down, and Jacqueline Rowarth retiring by rotation.

Nominations are also being taken for one farmer to join the DairyNZ Directors’ Remuneration Committee, which independently

Diversity: DairyNZ chair Jim van der Poel says  farmer-elected directors with previous governance or leadership experience bring diverse experience  and insights to the board table.

considers and recommends remuneration for directors each year.

All farmers paying a levy on milksolids to DairyNZ are eligible to stand for the Board of Directors and the Remuneration Committee. Candidates must be nominated by two DairyNZ levy payers.

Candidate nominations for all three positions must be received by the Returning Officer by 12 noon on Friday, August 9, 2024. If an election is confirmed, farmer voting will take place during September and October, with the successful candidates announced at DairyNZ’s annual general meeting on October 22 in Canterbury.

For more information on the nomination process visit  dairynz.co.nz/agm

the passing

d Cattle Wanted

The longer-term impact of drought

Last spring we were warned about the prospect of an El Nino summer and the hot, dry conditions that it could bring to Canterbury.

] with Dr Andrew Dark ] Aqualinc

For the mid and central Canterbury Plains, early and mid-summer were relatively benign, with rainfall tracking close to the long-term average through to at least mid-February. This resulted in above-average irrigation demand for the 2023-2024 summer, although it wasn’t anywhere near a recordbreaking level.

Irrigation water users with access to reliable groundwater or stored surface water were able to get through the irrigation season without significant issues.

Further north and south, rainfall was lower throughout summer; storage volumes in the Opuha Dam were stretched to their limit towards the end of the irrigation season.

While dry conditions can cause immediate problems, particularly for those farming without irrigation, there can be other implications that develop over a longer timeframe.

Our groundwater systems act like a storage battery, buffering out some of the shorterterm variability in the climate. The Canterbury Plains aquifers rely on recharge from the land surface and the alpine rivers.

While river recharge is more constant through the year, the majority of land-surface recharge occurs in winter, when soil moisture levels are high, and rainfall tends to result in drainage through the soil profile and into the underlying aquifer system.

Low autumn and winter rainfall translates to low land-surface recharge, which can lead to lower groundwater levels and lower flows in spring-fed streams in the subsequent year or years.

Lower than normal groundwater levels can cause difficulty with physically accessing water if bores (or other types of intakes that rely on a certain water level) are not deep enough or pumps are set too high.

Now is a good time to think about whether your farm’s water infrastructure is set up to cope with low groundwater levels.

Of particular concern are dry summers with high water demands following a period of below-average recharge.

If we use the analogy of a bank account, a period of above-average withdrawals follow-

The latter part of the summer, extending through to autumn and now winter has proven to be the most challenging time for many. A medium-scale adverse event was declared by the Minister for Agriculture in late March, and since then there has been a lack of any significant rainfall in many areas. Environment Canterbury reported in June that some rivers were at their lowest levels ever recorded.

Let it rain: Low autumn and winter rainfall translates to low land-surface recharge, which can lead to  lower groundwater levels and lower fl ows in spring-fed streams. Pictured: summer low fl ow in Chamberlains Ford.

ing a period of lower deposits can cause significant cashflow issues.

It’s still too soon to say what the impact of the dry autumn and winter on next summer’s groundwater levels and stream flows will be, a prolonged period of rain or a snowfall on the Plains could help to turn the situation around.

Storage in dams or ponds operates on a similar concept, but the timescales are typically shorter for the size of storage that we have in New Zealand. In some cases, a single rainfall event that results in high river flows can have a significant impact on replacing depleted storage volumes.

As the climate becomes more variable, the spotlight needs to go on the resilience of our water resources, both in terms of the habitats and ecosystems that our rivers and groundwater systems support, and the economic benefits that our region derives from water use.

Is the way that we manage water allocation agile enough to cope with a changing climate that includes more extremes?

What are the tools needed to protect the freshwater environment and drinking water supplies while also ensuring the resilience of our rural economy? A long-term strategic viewpoint is needed.

BY LINDSAY

IRRIGATE WITH CONFIDENCE.

IRRIGATION SYSTEMS REMOTE MANAGEMENT PRECISION VRI

Keeping an eye on bore water quality

Winter means wetter soils, deeper drainage, and surface water ponding, all of which pose a risk to a bore’s water quality.

] by Davina McNickel

] ECan Acting Groundwater

]

Science Manager

If you haven’t checked your bore recently or tested its water, you probably should. This is to make sure it’s still in good working order and protected from contaminants.

E. coli is just one of the health threats that can enter a drinking water supply, especially after heavy rain. Likewise, depending on their level, contaminants such as Nitrate can also pose a problem.

If you own a private drinking water source, please keep in mind that you’re responsible for its maintenance and for testing the water.

Also, if others on the farm in different properties are drinking the water, then by law you’re considered to be the supplier, something that comes with certain responsibilities.

To find out about these responsibilities, get in touch with Taumata Arowai, the water services regulator for New Zealand. You’ll also need to register your water supply with them.

To keep your drinking water safe, you should think about what could enter your bore from the surface or from groundwater.

One ‘must do’ is to have it fenced off from stock, at least 5 metres away is recommended.

It’s also best to have the bore located away from areas where chemicals are used, such as fertiliser or pesticides.

Likewise, things such as compost, rubbish, offal pits, septic tanks, or effluent disposal areas can contaminate surface water through run off or enter groundwater by leaching through the soil.

Keep the bore-head elevated and securely sealed. Ideally, this should be half a metre above ground and surrounded by a concrete apron.

A key take home message is to test the water regularly. We recommend getting an independently accredited IANZ lab to do the analysis. You can find out who and where these are on the Taumata Arowai website.

If you’re concerned about the water quality or if testing shows that the water does not

meet drinking water standards, you’ll need to treat the water. Each water supply is different, so we recommend getting specialist advice before doing so.

The ESR (Institute of Environmental Science and Research) has produced a guide to household water supplies which provides advice on good system design, treatment and monitoring to reduce risks.

There is also lots of information, guidelines, and handy links on drinking water on Environment Canterbury’s website (ecan. govt.nz/drinkingwater).

We realise that farmers have a lot on their plate and a lot is asked of them, and that things are pretty tough out there right now, but please prioritise the health of your property’s drinking water supply.

If you have any questions, contact us at 0800 324 636.

Has your consent monitoring service provider advised you that your 3G device needs replacing as the 3G network is stopped this year?

We can offer you a complete service for replacement hardware, installation and consent monitoring, along with automatically submitting your data to Ecan.

• Hardware

• Monitoring

• Soil moisture monitoring with Aquaflex

• Meter verifications

WATER & IRRIGATION

Better irrigation performance through assessment

Irrigation plays a crucial role in approximately 900,000 hectares of agricultural and horticultural operations across New Zealand, ensuring an optimal water supply to crops is crucial for farmers and growers to prioritise.

has some benefits, this process doesn’t tell you too much about the irrigator overall and the water supply to it.

] by Stephen McNally ] IrrigationNZ

] Principal Technical Advisor

In most cases the water you access is subject to consent and the related conditions for efficient use.

While a few takes are under permitted activity status, these operations should not overlook the gains to be made from running the system well.

To ensure efficient water usage and system performance, irrigation systems need to be regularly assessed and calibrated. The IrrigationNZ Code of Practice for Performance Assessment provides guidelines and standards for measuring and benchmarking irrigation performance.

This article will discuss the importance of undertaking an irrigator calibration or full assessment, the choice of which is best for the season, the process involved, and the key components you’d expect to see in the assessment report.

Calibration and full assessment are two approaches to evaluating irrigation system performance.

Calibration involves collecting just a minimum amount of information and determining only some of the potential performance indicators.

This helps identify if there are any problems with the system. While this light touch

On the other hand, a full assessment is a comprehensive evaluation that includes visual inspections, pump, and filter performance assessment, as well as the key performance indicators of depth, rate, and uniformity of application. It’s a comprehensive tool to support good decision-making on water scheduling and overall seasonal irrigation efficiency.

Before conducting an assessment, proper planning is essential. A professional performance assessor, ideally holding the NZ Certificate of Irrigation Performance Assessment, will approach the irrigation manager well before the test day and ideally well before the need for a farm audit visit.

It is beneficial for the assessor to fully involve the system operator in the assessment process. Agreements should be made regarding the date, time, and meeting place for the assessment.

The availability of required staff, completion of system maintenance, and access to the irrigation system should also be ensured. Additionally, the test methodology to be used should be established early so everyone is well informed on what is about to be done.

Various equipment is necessary for conducting an irrigation performance assessment. This includes getting set up with the data collection sheets, camera, stopwatch, ideally wind speed meters, and various tools to allow pressure and low readings to be taken on the irrigation system.

‘Having the original commissioning report is hugely benefi cial to tell the  assessor what they should expect at each test point.

You can never have too many pressure readings to tell you how a system is performing so having reliable gauges, pressure test needles, and pitot tubes are also required for measuring system performance.

We haven’t even mentioned buckets yet. There’s a reason for me to focus on a performance assessment being more than just the bucket test steps. While that data directly measures the water on the ground, informing you of the distribution uniformity, depth of application, and rate of application, it won’t particularly tell you about the system efficiency or how it stacks up against the KPIs system when it was new.

During both the calibration and full assessment methods, water application data is collected using containers and measurement tools.

The collected data is best supplemented by lots of observations, notes, and test

measurements taken around the irrigation system.

Having the original commissioning report is hugely beneficial to tell the assessor how the irrigation system was originally set up and what they should expect at each of the test points.

The data is then analysed and reported. Graphs of collector volumes, instantaneous application intensity, and soil infiltration rates are presented.

The distribution uniformity is determined and compared to expectations for the type of system. Observations, recommendations, and conditions under which the test was conducted are also included in the report.

The Code of Practice for Assessment covers different types of irrigation systems, including micro-irrigation, solid-set irrigation, sprayline irrigation, travelling irrigators, linear move irrigators, and centre pivot irrigators.

Each part of the assessment focuses on specific processes for measuring system performance. Additionally, there are assessments for energy efficiency and seasonal irrigation efficiency.

Regular assessment and calibration of irrigation systems are essential for ensuring optimal performance and efficient water usage. By following the process outlined in the code of practice, farmers and auditors can identify any issues with the system and suggest any necessary adjustments to improve performance. This ultimately leads to better resource use efficiency and sustainable agricultural practices.

Refreshed strategy focuses on thriving sheep and beef farmers

] by Nicky Hyslop

] Beef + Lamb New Zealand ] Director

Like all of you, I am hoping for a better season from both an economic and climatic point of view. It has been pleasing to hear that inflation has eased and we might even see a cut in interest rates sooner than expected.

A couple of weeks ago, Beef + Lamb New Zealand launched its refreshed strategy which includes a refocus on farm business productivity and profitability.

I want to make it clear that this is not a change in direction, rather it guides the organisation’s work on achieving our vision of thriving sheep and beef farmers now and into the future.

As a farmer, I know that we will all need to grow our toolbox in response to a changing climate, changing market and consumer

As I write this on a gloomy winter’s day, it is hard to imagine that spring is just around the corner, but the days are starting to lengthen, and we are seeing some early spring lambs on the ground.

demands, societal expectations and animal health challenges such as drench resistance and Facial Eczema.

This refreshed strategy, which is based around three pillars, has a clear focus on enhancing and sustaining on-farm productivity and profitability balanced with data and research that will set our sector up for success.

The first of these pillars is Championing Farming Excellence. B+LNZ is increas-

ing investment in this area, and this includes ramping up its extension activities.

You will notice new initiatives such as small group learning opportunities and the establishment of regional Hub farms which will help address local challenges and identify opportunities.

Research and innovation will remain as top priorities as we aim to future-proof our industry and there will be increased investment in sheep, beef and dairy beef genetics

and in addressing drench resistance and Facial Eczema.

B+LNZ will continue its work in attracting, growing and supporting young and aspiring sheep and beef farmers because you consistently tell us this is important.

The second pillar of B+LNZ’s refreshed strategy is Advocacy. The organisation will be changing what it does and how it does in this area, again with a focus on issues that impact on farm productivity and profitability. These include environment, animal welfare, biosecurity and trade.

We will be loud and strong voice when representing farmers’ views to the Government and we are committed to face-to-face engagement with B+LNZ’s levy payers. This helps ensure we develop policy solutions that are by farmers for farmers.

The final pillar is Energising the Sector. This work includes telling farmers’ stories, celebrating what we do and helping build trust and reputation in this country’s farmers.

As a B+LNZ Director, I’m starting my faceto-face engagement with farmers at a series of meetings in my Central South Island region.

I will be in Waimate and Fairlie on 1 August and it would be great to hear what farmers in my region are thinking about the refreshed strategy and important policy positions. For more information and registration details go to the B+LNZ website. I hope to see you there.

DINZ board names new chair and CEO

The Deer Industry New Zealand (DINZ) board has named Paddy Boyd is its new board chair, replacing Gerard Hickey, who had been interim chair since 24 June.

] with John Ladley ] DINZ industry capability manager

The board also confirmed that DINZ interim chief executive Rhys Griffiths would become the permanent CEO. Both roles are effective immediately, while Hickey will return to his role as deputy chair.

Boyd has served as a board member on the DINZ board since 2023 and has held several industry governance roles over the years. He currently sits on the National Velvetting Standards Body, as well as the Project Steering Group as the farmer representative on the newly minted North American (venison) Retail Accelerator Programme.

In addition to his governance roles, Boyd has managed Haldon Station in the Mackenzie Basin, South Canterbury for 42 years, and has worked for the current owners, the Klisser family, since 1991.

He has owned and farmed, together with his wife, Barbara, a deer farm at Pleasant Point since 1997.

“I have always been a strong believer in having the farmer voice represented at the highest levels of industry and decision-making,” says Boyd.

“Our farmers form the backbone of our industry but many shy away from speaking up at events. If I can represent their voices at the table while moving the industry forward and setting us up for a strong future, then I will have done my job.”

Meanwhile, Griffiths has spent more than 16 years in the industry, beginning as DINZ velvet marketing services manager in 2008 before taking over the markets manager role in 2015.

Griffiths says he was honoured the board had seen fit to make his position as DINZ chief executive permanent.

“Anyone that knows me knows how passionate I am about the deer industry and positioning us for the best chance for future success,” Griffiths says.

“I’m also very grateful for the team I have at DINZ, who have really pulled together over the last couple of months to help as I wore two hats.”

The other big piece of deer industry news this past month was the approval of the sector’s $4.9 million funding application to the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Sustainable Food and Fibres Futures Fund to lift demand for New Zealand venison through the North American retail market.

New chair: South Canterbury deer farmer Paddy Boyd has been  appointed as the Deer Industry New Zealand’s new board chair.

The three-year North American Retail Accelerator Project – co-funded by MPI, Deer Industry NZ (DINZ) and all five venison companies – started on 1 July. It’s forecast to deliver an initial return of $20 million – a 4:1 return on investment – by its conclusion in 2027.

DINZ CEO Rhys Griffiths has been characteristically enthusiastic about the project, which he says, “will leverage great work done by the companies and open doors wider for the deer industry.”

Griffiths believes it will create a robust and stable market in North America, diversify the sector’s export base and ensure sustainable growth for deer farmers.

Venison demand is looking good for the coming season, as the message is getting around importers that product will be scarce, say exporters, who are in the early stages of chilled contract negotiations with European customers.

Venison processors are expecting farmgate prices to largely mirror last year’s, “if not a little better,” Duncan NZ’s general manager marketing and operations Rob Kidd has reported.

No news – at time of writing – on the frozen velvet access to China situation but a lot of hard work is going on behind the scenes, “with good progress being made towards enabling trade for the upcoming season,” it has been reported. While conversations continue, the deer industry has been busy relationship building with Chinese trade contacts.

While on velvet – the annual membership fee for the National Velvet Standards Body (NVSB) is set to increase to $239.13 plus GST for the upcoming velvet season, up from $217.39 plus GST previously.

The fees collected are used to run the NVSB programme, including auditing work, VelTrak and administration. The NVSB annual fee was last increased in 2018.

In awe of bull buying industry

The bull sale season draws to an end and again I marvel at how things have changed over the past 10 or so years.

] with Rob Cope-Williams

I was very lucky during my CTV days to have learnt about stock from some of the best breeders in New Zealand.

What to look for in a bull, the head, spring of rib, legs, rear end, or the meat end as it was referred as, sheath, back line, and toes. All needed to be right.

Even walking was important. The hind foot should land exactly where the front foot had been, As opposed to a pacing racehorse which should have the hind foot land forward of where the front one had left. Yes Peter O’Rourke, I did listen.

Now I expect that may be still important, but I feel the physical aspects are probably ironed out with the breeder and the sales team well before the auction.

The computer has taken over with a vengeance.

Looking at the Te Mania catalogue it is full of evaluation details that are totally mind blowing to me. Calving ease (I would have had my head cut off as all my children were over 10 pounds at birth). Growth and maternal. Fertility, CWT, 300kg carcass, feed

] by Solis Norton

conversion, Temperament, Structure and $indexes.

Firstly, how do you pick a bull to suit your needs from all that information, and secondly, how the hell do they gather the information?

Calf weights I can understand. Catch the calf, keep its mother from attacking you, and note the required details from the mother’s tag, make the necessary notes on the back of your cigarette packet and head off for morning tea.

Well, it did seem to be that easy, but now. Wow.

I was pleased to see that the sale proper started at 1pm, but viewing was from 10am so those who wanted to cast an eye over the 140 or so before they went under the hammer.

I admit being in awe of the way the industry has moved on so far and so fast and the way the agents have driven it for the betterment of the whole industry.

I am sure that those mates of mine who taught me the basics would have their work cut out explaining the modern needs of the commercial buyers.

Mud, tear-offs and sustainability

I am a motorhead. Born and bred. Since the mid-seventies when dad rode that old CZ motocrosser around the house and I ran round inside in my nappies from window to window to watch him go by. That was it. Dirt bikes were my jam.

Don’t get me wrong, I love sustainability as much as anyone. But of course, what it means to one person is not what it means to another.

I rode motocross and off-road endurance races every weekend I could afford. For nearly twenty years. Loved it and the friends that came with it. We lived it and breathed it up and down the country.

We all admired the fantasy that was motocross in Europe and the United States too. Watching breathless as the King brothers, Josh Coppins and Ben Townley rose through those ranks.

The professionalism, the money, the fame, the energy and the spectacle of racing over there was all next level. Fabulous.

Motocross is the antithesis of that all but spent buzzword ‘sustainability’. And so proudly so! A fossil fuelled sport of no real use at all besides a vehicle to refine our craft to ever higher level.

Besides perhaps the fastest way to muster a paddock if you happened to be doing farm work on your race bike. Glorious fun either way.

Tear-offs are thin sheets of disposable plastic that fit across a rider’s goggles. We’d usually put five or six on each race. So, when we copped a face full of mud from the guy in front, we simple ripped one off and, voila, a clear view again. Back on the gas. Best thing since sliced bread. The fate of those sheets went without a second thought. Ever.

Having aged some decades now from those heady racing days I feel like I pulled one of life’s great tearoffs last month. With the vision suddenly cleared after a generation these bushy eyebrows rose to their crest at the scene, crow’s feet stretched out smooth.

I saw the British motocross championship round at the legendary Foxhill circuit recently cancelled. Both premier classes for the event failing to attract even half the desired entries. What malaise could reduce such a great pinnacle of our beloved sport to this? How could motocross not be sustainable? It is so cool.

I saw Shell, the fossil fuel company,

wriggle out of its one million tonne plastic recycling project citing the endeavour as infeasible. Sustainability for them and their ilk revolves, in turns out, around producing oil. Not recycling. How can recycling not be worth it?

I saw Energy Resources Aotearoa highlight potentially serious social, economic, and environmental consequences of New Zealand’s own dwindling fossil fuel reserves and the apparent disinterest in investing in a local remedy.

How come sustainability for kiwis is now as much about new oil and gas resources as any alternative green option? That must put a bee in Greta’s bonnet.

Regardless, dirt bikes will still be great. Especially the new Ducati. I cannot wait to see one of those in the flesh and listen to its engine note at full throttle.

Let’s save the world – for the children and for motocross.