Farmers Weekly NZ October 16 2017 by AgriHQ

14 Fonterra attacked on cow numbers Vol 16 No 40, October 16, 2017

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Big bucks for bulls Alan Williams alan.williams@nzx.com

STRONG spring yearling bull market is raising questions over the impact on next winter’s two-year-old

bull sales. Big price gains for the justcompleted round of yearling sales including high-end Angus, Herefords and the dairy-cross sector followed record two-year sales over winter. “A lot of yearling bulls are being sold and a lot of them will be carried through into next year so it might mean we need a few less two-year-olds then,” NZ Farmers Livestock stud stock adviser Brent Bougen said. “I think it will still be strong but there’s a question there.” PGG Wrightson auctioneer and genetics adviser Cam Heggie said top two-year bulls had fetched averages of $7000-$9000. That might have had farmers thinking they could pay $4000 for a yearling with the same earlygestation, easy-calving genetics and see it as a two-for-one opportunity. “People have been saying for a couple of years that the two-year market needs a correction so we might see what the effect will be.” Yearling bull prices have been 25% to 30% above this time last year, often on stock numbers up about 20% to 25%. Dairy farmers were paying up to $3500 for young bulls, Bougen said. “That’s quite a bit for a dairy bull.”

GET BETTER: There is still room for improvement in finding cattle that hit all the boxes for meat quality, PGG Wrightson auctioneer and genetics adviser Cam Heggie says.

I think it will still be strong but there’s a question there. Brent Bougen NZ Farmers Livestock Herefords were a big focus for dairy farmers, especially in Waikato, Heggie said. “What’s underpinning it is the return you can get for a four-day calf and this year you could get $460 for a 10-day calf. “That’s an encouraging cash

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return in the winter when there’s not much else about.” Along with the rise in bull prices he also reported reduced cow culling. Farmers were seeing they could mate the cows and get $1000 for the calves the following in autumn. Another reason for the higher yearling prices was demand from farmers who might have thought they overpaid for weaner heifers last year. “They can put the bull to the heifer, get a calf they can finish and then fatten the heifer for processing before they cut their teeth, for a better price.’’

The trade in yearling bulls was not guaranteed, he said. There was a lot more that could go wrong with them than there was with a two-year. They were not fully developed structurally so faults weren’t always obvious and there was heightened risk of them breaking down because of their inexperience. As a genetics specialist Heggie said a lot was being achieved at the top end of the meat cattle herd and a lot more remained to be done. As an example, the AngusPure goal was the special reserve status, where the criteria was huge and a

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lot of animals in the programme were getting to 80% but not to the 100% where they qualified for lucrative premium payments. “We need to keep finding the cattle that hit all the boxes,” he said. Though beef prices would drift back and the store market had been on the dear side, Bougen expected the market to remain solid. He was not expecting the elevated bull prices and increased mating of heifers to lead to a big increase in the total beef herd because dairy expansion meant there was not a lot of land to put extra numbers on.

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NEWS

NEW THINKING

Soil Moisture Anomaly (mm) at 9am October 13, 2017

31 Laser throws light on

4 Merino and other wools poles

apart

emissions

60 Wetter than

A quantum cascade laser sounds like something from Dr Who and like his police box popping up in odd places, one has appeared in a Waikato paddock.

OPINION

normal (mm)

34 Alternative View Alan Emerson wants shareholders to pick who represents them in the boardroom, not consultants.

The market gap between Merino and crossbred wools is the greatest in well over 20 years, PGG Wrightson South Island sales manager Dave Burridge says.

Editorial �� 32

5 Lamb exports going up

Pulpit �� 33

Export lamb volumes are expected to rise very slightly this season with lower carcase weights offset by an increase in the number of lambs.

Cartoon �� 32

38 Brexit could slash farm

MPI to cull 4000 cattle �� 3

British farmers are being urged to take action now to prepare their businesses for Brexit or risk seeing their profits whittled away in the face of falling subsidies and increased overseas competition.

Merino and other wools poles apart �� 4

REGULARS

Ag death toll down �� 10 Gent goes after year in top job �� 11 Time to cut animals, plant trees �� 12 Cut animal numbers quickly Carden says �� 14

Employment �� 39-40 Classifieds �� 40 Livestock �� 40-42

MARKETS

48 Angus sale

Smart Farm to be a showcase �� 16

gains 30%

Rural Delivery hits road block �� 19

A near 30% gain in average prices on a much bigger yarding made South Canterbury farmer James Fraser a very happy vendor after his annual onfarm yearling bull sale.

NEWSMAKER

30 Stock imports help exports

to US

A snip from the ear of young heifer calves could be the key to bridging the meat quality consistency gap between New Zealand Angus beef cattle and the best American animals, South Canterbury stud breeder Tom Hargreaves says.

-30

-50

Drier than normal (mm)

From the Lip �� 36

incomes

Small streams are big polluters �� 8

-20

From the Ridge �� 35

Transformational rather than incremental change is needed to reach New Zealand’s climate change goals, Vivid Economics engagement manager Alex Kazaglis says.

Old co-op finds recovery spirit �� 7

-10

Alternative View �� 34

WORLD

Lamb exports going up �� 5

Letters �� 32

12 Time to cut animals, plant

trees

spirit tells us

nothing’s

This map shows the difference or anomaly in soil moisture level at the date shown compared to the average, generated from more than 30 years of records held by NIWA.

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Market Snapshot �� 44

our pioneering

Map reading tips

Editor: Bryan Gibson Twitter: farmersweeklynz Email: nzfarmersweekly@nzx.com Free phone: 0800 85 25 80 DDI: 06 323 1519

Back in 1860, exporting meat to the other side of the world seemed about as easy as nailing gravy to the ceiling. But a few determined kiwis took the bull by the horns and now our grass-fed beef and lamb is sought-after all around the globe. At AFFCO, we see the same pioneering spirit alive and well in farmers today. We’re playing our part too – exploring every opportunity to take New Zealand’s finest farm-raised products to the world.

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News

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

MPI to cull 4000 cattle Tim Fulton tim.fulton@nzx.com ABOUT 4000 cattle infected by Mycoplasma bovis will be culled, the Ministry for Primary Industries says. MPI made the call following the discovery of the disease in July. Its response had included district-wide testing in Waimate and Waitaki and nationwide testing of bulk milk. Response director Geoff Gwyn said it did tens of thousands of tests of infected, neighbouring and trace properties. “The only positive results for the disease have been on seven infected properties, leading us to be cautiously optimistic that we are dealing with a very localised area of infection around Oamaru.”

I want to be very clear that this isn’t something that’s going to start tomorrow. This is a big logistical exercise. Geoff Gwyn MPI To prevent further spread about 4000 cattle on five of the seven infected properties would be culled and the farms decontaminated then repopulated, Gwyn said. The two other properties already had a small number of culled animals and no cattle remained on them. “I want to be very clear that this isn’t something that’s going to start tomorrow. “This is a big logistical exercise. “It needs to be thoroughly planned and co-ordinated and

we will be doing it with the farmers who know their businesses best.” The whole operation was about managing the disease while keeping future options open, he said. “We want to minimise the risk of further spread of the disease. Moving ahead with depopulation of the affected farms will allow them to get back to normal business as soon as it is safe to do so.” There was no need to remove animals from other farms in the Van Leeuwen group that were under restrictions. Testing of animals on those farms continued and they would be subject to the same measures should infection be found. MPI would work with livestock industry bodies, the Rural Support Trust and others to support affected farmers. The ministry expected the first stage – removing the animals – would start after consultation with affected groups. Most of the cattle would be sent for slaughter, in line with usual practice. All premises, vehicles and equipment involved in culling would follow a strict decontamination and disinfection protocol to reduce the risk of spreading the disease. Once depopulation was complete there would be at least a 60-day stand-down when no cattle would be allowed onto the farms. During that time the infected properties would be cleaned and disinfected. The aim then would be to get cattle back on the farms as quickly as possible. Surveillance, monitoring and testing would remain in place for a period as a further precaution. Affected farmers could apply for compensation for verifiable losses relating to MPI exercising its legal powers under the Biosecurity Act.

NO OTHER WAY: Culling is the only logical option and will give all dairy and beef farmers peace of mind, Federated Farmers president Katie Milne says.

Federated Farmers president Katie Milne said destroying stock in contact with affected animals was the only way to give the rest of New Zealand’s dairy and beef farmers peace of mind. The federation supported the continuation of strict movement controls on the remaining 13 properties under restricted place notices. “These restrictions have significant implications for the people concerned and all other farmers so this action is essential to keep the option of eradication on the table.”

Milne acknowledged the disease came at an emotional cost to the affected families and their animals. “But the disease does not respond to treatment and cannot be vaccinated against. “Culling is the only logical option to prevent ongoing suffering of the animals.” DairyNZ chief executive Dr Tim Mackle also supported continued culling. “However, we also know that the decision will create heartache for the affected farmers and our sympathies are with all those involved on-farm.”

The move followed extensive work and testing by MPI, with support from DairyNZ and other agencies. Since the disease was identified MPI had done more than 30,000 tests. Beef + Lamb NZ chairman James Parsons said the culling was necessary to protect cattle farms against the disease but B+LNZ wanted to see all available support and compensation provided to those affected.

www.mpi.govt.nz/mycoplasmabovis/

Wairere lambs are fast finishing When Brian Coogan changed to Wairere Romney on his Taihape farm five years ago, he was lambing at 140% with half the lambs going prime at weaning, averaging 17.5kg. Lambing this year was 150%, with 85% POM at an average of 19.2kg. All hoggets are mated and are consistently lambing above 90%; this season 60% went POM at 18.2kg average. The overall average, including hogget lambs, will be over 19kg this year, with 80% of all lambs gone at weaning.

“These sheep have performed well.”

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News

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Wools poles apart Alan Williams alan.williams@nzx.com THE market gap between Merino and crossbred wools is the greatest in well over 20 years, PGG Wrightson South Island sales manager Dave Burridge says. “They’re poles apart. “It’s extraordinary what we’re seeing.” Merino prices spiked higher at Thursday’s Christchurch wool auction but crossbred fleece fell again and was back at the low point of early August before a short-lived bounce. Wools below 27 micron were sought after but the real price action was in the 17.5 micron and below range, Burridge said. Typical rises were $1.50/kg to $2/kg greasy. Chinese buyers were very active in Merino but had lost interest in crossbred. Most of the adult Merino wool had gone through the market with hogget wool now being put up, and in much better condition for strength and consistency that in recent

years because of the excellent growing season. That would underpin the market for another month or so. Sales prices in the 14 to 20 micron were 7% to 11% higher than a fortnight earlier. Sales highlights included Mt Noble, 16.4 micron at $26.36/ kg clean, Dunstan Peaks 17 micron at $25.59/kg clean, Simons Pass, 17.1 micron at $25.68/kg clean and Maryburn Partnership, nine bales of 16.8 micron at $25.65/kg clean. For the unfortunate stronger wools, 31 to 34 micron were 3% to 7% cheaper than the previous sale and 35 micron and stronger wools 1% to 3% cheaper. Much of the wool being offered was carry-over from last season and Burridge said the market had anticipated an opportunity for improvement when there was not a lot of new wool coming through. “They put it forward but those earlier gains have been eroded. “It’s disappointing. This time of year is normally good for selling crossbred.”

Everyone had hoped August’s price gains were the start of a substantial demand period but it had turned out just to be a “flutter of hand-tomouth orders” by some market buyers. But there was no sign of farmers dumping wool, contrary to some reports. Of the 11,100 bales on offer in Christchurch, about 65% were crossbred and the pass-in rate of 22% indicated vendors still wanted a price. “Cashflow is important to them but there’s plenty of grass about and they’re getting a good price for lamb meat so we’re not seeing a trend toward dumping.” However, with the new season’s wool starting to come forward in another five weeks or so, first in the North Island and then the South, there would start to be pressure for strong wool vendors to meet the market. Among the prices: 17 bales of 35.4 micron at $3.17/ kg clean, 12 bales of 34.3 micron at $3.25/kg clean and 36-micron hogget wool at $3.26/kg clean.

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DOUBTS: Brexit, the TPP and Japan have created uncertainty in export meat markets, Meat Industry Association chairman John Loughlin says.

Meat exports still face uncertainty Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@nzx.com THE meat industry faces considerable uncertainty in export trade access and domestic politics, Meat Industry Association chairman John Loughlin and chief executive Tim Ritchie say. In the foreword to MIA’s 2017 annual report they said the withdrawal of the United States from the Trans Pacific Partnership had focused the hopes of exporters on the replacement TPP 11. “Of particular importance to us is the creation of a level playing field in certain markets, such as Japan, where competing countries already have significant tariff advantage through bilateral trade agreements,” they said. Brexit had also created trade uncertainty for $1.5 billion of annual trade in New Zealand lamb to the European Union 28. That trade included the leading market for lamb legs, the United Kingdom, which could account for a third of the entire value of a lamb carcase. The MIA and Beef + Lamb NZ had committed to putting a senior person in London for two years to ensure the voice of the NZ meat industry was heard at this critical time. “It is heartening that the antiglobalisation rhetoric does not seem to have entirely taken hold around the world,” they said. MIA members welcomed new

trade talks with the EU, the Pacific Alliance of Chile, Colombia, Mexico and Peru and the TPP 11 negotiations. The new access for chilled meat and blood products to China and the renewed access to Iran were welcome. The MIA published a blueprint for partnership with the government and met MPs for more detailed discussions. It also provided field trips for MPs and Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Primary Industries ministries. Exports of sheep meat, beef and co-products in the year ended June 30 were $7 billion, some $600 million less than the previous year. Beef prices declined from their high levels and exchange rate movements also contributed. Two major export markets were almost equal, the US with $1.59b and China with $1.44b. Exports went to 122 countries, 17 of them taking more than $100m each. Beef returned $2.7b of value from just under 400,000 tonnes of volume. The sheep meat volume fell 9% to 373,312 tonnes but the drop in value was smaller, being 4% down to $2.86b. Co-products returned $1.46b, the biggest category being hides and skins at $380m, down 16% in value from the year before. Italy remained the biggest market for bovine hides, China for sheep pelts and Japan for edible offal.

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News

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Lamb exports are going up Alan Williams alan.williams@nzx.com EXPORT lamb volumes are expected to rise very slightly this season with lower carcase weights offset by an increase in the number of lambs. Beef + Lamb New Zealand is forecasting lamb meat receipts for the October to September year to be $2.556 billion, up from an estimated $2.523b in the year just finished, and for total lamb receipts including by-products to be $2.74b, up from $2.7b. Expected strengthening of major customer currencies was expected to a lead to a slight gain in NZ dollar returns to offset decreases in in-market prices. They were expected to decline from the buoyant levels of the latest season when they started rising in February, at a time when they usually started to fall and continued higher right through. The forecasts for returns were based on an average exchange rate of US$0.69 for the kiwi dollar over the year ahead, down from the 0.71 average of the 2016-17 year. B+LNZ chief economist Andrew Burtt said exchange rate movements had a significant leveraged effect on farmgate prices and he outlined the impact from both higher and lower average rates over the year. A slightly lower average carcase weight was expected this season, based on a more normal supply pattern, whereas last year had a slower start as plentiful grass availability and improving prices took pressure off farmers to get their lambs away, thus lifting carcase weights. The slower start was reflected in shipments for the first nine months of the season, through to the end of June, being down 5% on the previous year when forecast dry conditions caused an early supply pattern.

LIGHTER: A slightly lower average carcase weight is expected this year for export lambs.

B+LNZ estimated lamb meat export volumes of 296,000 tonnes for the September year just finished and the forecast was for 297,000 tonnes in the year just starting. For the first nine months of the 2016-17 year, the European Union share of total lamb export receipts fell to 45% from 53% a year earlier, with a big decline in tonnage and a small increase in value per tonne. Within the EU market, shipments to the United Kingdom were down 21% on a year earlier and the average value per tonne fell 5.3%; the sharp fall in the value of UK sterling after the Brexit vote was behind those figures.

For continental EU, shipment levels also fell but the value per tonne rose slightly. North Asia made up for those declines and in China, the biggest north Asian market, strong prices resulted in receipts rising 17% despite slightly lower shipments than previously. A further fall in mutton export volumes was expected because of the fall in the ewe population in recent years. In the latest year volumes were estimated to be 79,000 tonnes, down just over 5% on a year earlier, but increased market competition for limited supplies with Australian production also much lower meant the FOB value

of mutton exports was up an estimated 14% to $5442/tonne. Mutton receipts were expected to be $410 million for the year, up from $380m the year before. This year a further 9% fall in volumes to 72,000 tonnes was expected as flock rebuilding took place. The value per tonne was expected to be higher again but that wouldn’t offset the meat volume reduction and receipts were forecast to be back to $389m. Co-product receipts were expected to about steady at $118m FOB. North Asia was again the biggest mutton market in 201617, Malaysia jumped into second

place and the United States was third biggest. Volumes to the EU dropped away because of a decline in shipments to the UK. Beef and veal meat export volumes were expected to fall slightly against this season following a 3.05% reduction to 409,000 tonnes through 2016-17. Average in-market prices increased slightly, but the higher NZ dollar lowered total receipts from a year earlier, down 3.15% at $2.80b. For the current year, volumes are expected to be 405,000 tonnes and receipts forecast at $2.73b. Co-product receipts are expected to rise to $565m from $560m last year.

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News

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Old co-op finds recovery spirit Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@nzx.com ONE of the country’s oldest and most conservative dairy processors has adopted governance reforms to go with its new co-operative recovery spirit, Westland Milk Products chairman Pete Morrison says. The board had been downsized from 11 to eight by way of a reduction in farmer-director seats from eight to five and new eligibility criteria and nomination pathways were passed by 93.7% of shareholders who voted. The co-operative had a new chairman, a new chief executive, stronger board, revitalised senior management, a committed workforce, stable milk supply and a milk price that was on the way back to profitability for its farmers and sustainability, he said. Morrison, who has been chairman since March and a director since 2015, said he recommitted his substantial milk supply to Westland two years ago when elected to the board. His farms carried 5500 cows, making him second only to Landcorp with its farms around Westport as the largest supplying entity. The home farm was at Sheffield, an irrigated property on the higher Canterbury Plains near Porter’s Pass and the main Arthur’s Pass route to the West Coast and the company’s head office at Hokitika. The other Morrison farms were at Westport and Inangahua in the north, and at Inchbonnie, near Otira, on his two-hour commute from Sheffield to Hokitika. Morrison said his late mother was a Coaster and he always had an affinity for the region and its people. He had mined gold and worked in forestry before buying a dairy farm on the Coast in 1997 because that was where he could afford the land. The Sheffield conversion to

QUIET PLEASE: Pete Morrison’s first job as Westland chairman was to get farmers to stop bagging their co-operative.

It has been a team effort to transform this company and our staff members, directors and farmers have been fully engaged because we are all in this together. Pete Morrison Westland Milk dairying in and around the home farm followed eight years ago, as a change from the intensive

cropping favoured by Pete’s father, the late Pat Morrison, former chairman of the NZ Wool Board and chairman of Central Plains Water. Though Morrison did not want to make the story about his farming businesses the significance of one of Westland’s largest suppliers leading the transformation of the co-operative would not be lost on his fellow farmer-shareholders. Nor would his Coast connections, his extensive business background and his governance heritage. When the Westland review began after widespread dissatisfaction expressed at the

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Morrison was now hopeful those farmers would reconsider as Westland’s recovery took hold. “I have tried to touch all of them and the ones I have spoken to have been supportive,” he said. “It has been a team effort to transform this company and our staff members, directors and farmers have been fully engaged because we are all in this together.” The immediate effect of the governance changes would be one vacancy for a farmerdirector notified and contested, if necessary, before this year’s annual meeting.

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2016 annual meeting, Morrison appealed to farmers to get involved, make their views known and, above all, stop publicly bagging their own co-operative. “It speaks volumes about their integrity and the heritage of the company that they did so.” Morrison also sought to talk to the 20% Canterbury contingent of Westland’s 432 supply farms with 342 farm owners – those who had options to leave Westland and supply either Fonterra or Synlait. Last May Westland received a handful of 12-month notices of intention to quit supply because of the disappointingly low and uncompetitive payouts in the past two seasons.

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News

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Small streams are big polluters Richard Rennie richard.rennie@nzx.com MORE than three-quarters of the nutrient load in waterways comes from those exempted from fencing requirements, AgResearch has found. Under water quality standards streams not wider than a stride are not required to be fenced. But “wider than a stride and deeper than a Redband” might not prove a sufficient standard if the pastoral sector was to continue to achieve water quality gains. Professor Richard McDowell and his colleagues modelled streams based on their size classification against the terrain, soil, land cover and contour they flowed through to gauge how great waterway contamination was, something not done before in New Zealand. They studied the contribution watercourses made to phosphorous, nitrogen, E coli and sediment level. Data was sourced from more than 700 testing sites around the country between 1998 and 2009. The scientists applied the standard of the Land and Water Forum to their testing. It said streams less than a metre wide and under 30cm deep on slopes less than 15 degrees were exempt from fencing requirements under the Forum’s standards. The authors said past research including work done by McDowell in 2008 found fencing headwater streams was extremely effective, reducing phosphate and E coli levels on a trialled deer unit by 90%. The authors acknowledged fencing all headwaters on a farm could effectively bankrupt it. They also said while 90% of dairy watercourses over 1m wide had been fenced “far fewer” large streams on sheep and beef properties had been because they

Fencing can fail to address overland flow pathways which, as highlighted by this research, can be financially unviable for some farming businesses. Corina Jordan B+LNZ

PROVED: Most waterway pollution comes from small streams exempted from fencing rules, Professor Richard McDowell says.

were used as sources for stock drinking water. McDowell said the fact most of the contaminant load had been proved to come from areas exempt from fencing requirements reflected the greater number and area small streams occupied among the country’s watercourses. That was potentially from steeper country where dairying was unlikely to be present. His work also indicated a “substantial” proportion of contaminant concentrations might come from natural sources including natural sediment losses and E coli from wildlife. The report said nutrient loads from smaller watercourses accounted for particularly large proportions of contaminants in the Canterbury, Southland, Nelson and Hawke’s Bay catchments.

They were also catchments that had tourism and recreational use. “Our data suggests not requiring fencing may significantly delay or reduce the ability to mitigate water quality impairment unless other measures are taken,” the authors said. McDowell said fencing was not a silver bullet solution and other measures could include a suite of options. Fencing costs had been estimated as high as $1.4 billion nationally. McDowell and his colleagues suggested that based on the immediate impact of smaller waterways on nutrient and sediment levels it might prove more cost-effective to lower their nutrient losses rather than trying to deal with those losses in bigger streams further down the catchment.

“These could include minimal tillage, precision fertiliser application avoiding vulnerable areas of nutrient loss, natural seepage wetlands or grazing gullies only in the dry periods.” The authors noted the challenge their conclusions posed to the pastoral farming sector when it cames to determining how to deal with small streams in steeper country. “Apart from an assumption that headwaters contribute little to catchment loads, the main reason in NZ for de-emphasising their role is that it is impractical (too steep) and too costly to fence them.” “Nevertheless high costs may be justified when a large amount of contaminant loading originates from a small area.” Earlier research had already found 90% of catchment loads for

sediment, phosphate and E coli originated from a very small area of a catchment used by red deer for wallowing. A Federated Farmers-AgFirst report last year based on the Waikato’s Healthy Rivers Plan put the average cost to fence waterways on the region’s sheep and beef properties at about $300,000 and as high as $750,000 a farm. In Waikato the definition of a “waterway” that would require fencing under the Healthy Rivers Plan included any drain, river or wetland that continually contains surface water. Beef + Lamb NZ environmental policy manager Corina Jordan said the organisation recognised about 80% of contaminant losses came from 20% of farm catchment areas and farm-specific environmental plans aimed to identify and manage those areas, known as “critical source areas”. “This tailored, farm-specific approach achieves far greater environmental outcomes, including for biodiversity and greenhouse gas emissions, than blanket rules such as fencing. “Fencing can fail to address overland flow pathways which, as highlighted by this research, can be financially unviable for some farming businesses.”

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Workplace fatalities by focus area

10 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Forestry

Extractives

Construction

Agriculture

135 130 120 110 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

Manufacturing

Workplace fatalities by focus area (2011-2017)

Adventure activities

WORKPLACE deaths in agriculture are down so far this year but the rate of quad bike-related fatalities continues. WorkSafe statistics showed that, recorded by “focus area”, nine people died in agricultural workplaces before October 1. Recorded by industry, agriculture had eight deaths, compared to an average of 15 deaths for the same period each year from 2014 to 2016. The ninth recorded death was from the fishing, hunting and trapping industry, the victim of a quad rollover while working on a farm. Focus areas differed from industry statistics because they included deaths from other industries. WorkSafe agriculture sector leader Al McCone said it recorded focus areas to give sectors a full picture of all fatalities in their work environment. From 2011 to 2017 the agriculture focus area had 124 focus area fatalities.

WorkSafe reported quad bike deaths as a subset of agriculture. By focus area the bikes were involved in 34 of those deaths. Quad bikes were generally involved in a quarter to a third of all incidents and so far in 2017 the percentage was 30%, at three deaths. By focus area, construction had 35 deaths since 2011, forestry 33 and manufacturing 18. Adventure activities had 16 and extractive work seven. The WorkSafe record of agriculture industry deaths for 2017 showed three deaths in January: a tractor rollover in Whangarei, a baler accident in Waimate and a quad bike incident at Waitomo. In February in the Far North a person was hit by a fence post when a tractor attachment malfunctioned and in March in Waikato a person was struck by an object from behind a tractor. In April a person in Buller was found dead under a quad bike and in Hamilton a person was found lying head first down a cattle truck ramp. In Christchurch in June a person was struck by forklift.

Fo cus Area fa ta lities differ fro m the Indus try Fa ta lity s ta tis tics . In a dditio n to Indus try Fa ta lity s ta tis tics (e.g. co ns tructio n, fo res try a n fa ta lities fro m o ther indus tries wo rking in the Fo cus Area (fo r exa mple, a civil co ns tructio n wo rker who is killed while wo rking o n fo the Fo cus Area s ta tis tics is to give s ecto rs a full picture o f a ll fa ta lities o ccurring within the s ecto r. Indus try fa ta lities a re reco rded a in which the prima ry duty ho lder o pera tes .

Fatalities

Ag death toll down Tim Fulton tim.fulton@nzx.com

News

For the 2011-2017* calendar years

Thes e s ta tis tics s ho w the number o f fa ta l wo rk-rela ted incidents repo rted to Wo rkSa fe New Z ea la nd under the Hea lth a nd Sa fety in the Hea lth a nd Sa fety a t Wo rk Act 2015. They do no t include dea ths in the ma ritime o r a via tio n s ecto rs o r fa ta lities due to wo rk-rela inves tiga ted by Ma ritime New Z ea la nd, the Civil Avia tio n Autho rity a nd the New Z ea la nd Po lice res pectively.

Focus area/category

Data table Focus Area/Cat egory

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

Advent ure Act ivit ies

Agricult ure

Quad Bikes (wit hin Agricult ure)

Const ruct ion

Ext ract ives

Forest ry

Manufact uring

Tot al

* 2017 figures a re yea r to da te 4 Octo ber 2017

VISION: Focus areas give sectors a full picture, WorkSafe agriculture leader Al McCone says.

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THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Gent goes after year in top job Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@nzx.com KAIPARA District Mayor Greg Gent has resigned abruptly after a year in the job, effective on November 15 and the next council meeting. Gent, the former Fonterra deputy chairman and a dairy farmer with four properties in lower Northland, said his resignation was for personal reasons but not health-related. He was the clear favourite for mayor in last year’s local government election and offered a steady hand on the tiller after several years of financial and ratepayer turmoil.

Kaipara District had been under government-appointed commissioners for four years before the election of local councillors last year. Gent was asked by the Government to head a review team in 2012 that led to the Government appointing the commissioners to run the council. When standing for mayor he said he didn’t want to see Kaipara slip back into the hole it was just climbing out of. “I offer myself as mayor, as a very experienced director, without a ticket or an agenda, except to do my very best by Kaipara as it recovers.”

A former 12-year director of Fonterra, Gent was concurrently chairman of Southern Cross Health and Dairy Holdings and a director of Plant and Food Research. After November 15 deputy mayor Peter Wethey would lead the council until a byelection could be held to replace Gent. Chief executive Graham Sibery resigned in August after 13 months in the job and the acting chief executive since early September was Peter Tynan, former chief executive of Southern Cross, while a replacement for Sibery was found.

Westland revamp continues Nominations opened on October 6 and would close on October 20 and the election would run until the annual meeting on November 6. An independent selection panel headed by reform adviser Sue Suckling would make a nomination and there would be a self-nomination option also available. Because two previous resignations were not replaced and sitting directors Raelyn Laurie and Noel Robb were stepping down, the filling of one vacancy would complete the board downsizing without further transition measures, Morrison said. Three appointed directors would continue through this process. They were former Fonterra senior executives Brent Taylor and Bob Major, and former Warehouse chairman, PGG Wrightson chairman and chartered accountant Keith Smith. Morrison’s deputy chairwoman was Federated Farmers national president and West Coast dairy farmer Katie Milne and the two other farmer-directors were Westport dairy farmer and Landcorp manager Rebecca Keoghan and Westport farmer and accountant Frank Dooley. Milne and Keoghan received national honours as Dairy Woman of the Year in consecutive years, 2015 and 2016. All directors would in future have four-year terms and the rotation would be two farmerdirectors coming up for re-election in one year and one farmer-director and one appointed director in each of the other three years. Morrison said Westland’s processing assets were capable of handling more than its current annual milk intake of 65 million kilograms milksolids and further value-add enhancements could be made from cashflow. Westland disclosed net debt of $233m and tangible net worth of 43% in the 2017 financials announced recently. It had a share standard of $1.50 and a share value of $1.63 based on the latest balance sheet. Heading the good news in the financials was the 10% saving in selling, distribution and administration expenses despite a 7% increase in sales revenue. Westland broke even and confirmed a final payout of $5.18/kg, almost a dollar behind Fonterra and two dollars behind Tatua. The objective of chief executive Toni Brendish and her team was to deliver sustainable milk prices above the industry average, Morrison said. An opening forecast this

season of $6.40 to $6.80 was a strong indication of that turnaround, based on more than $70m worth of savings identified and targeted plus the very strong butter and anhydrous milk fat world prices. Westland’s stronger cashflow had enabled it to pay its farmers a 40c/kg advance in August to help them through the late-winter cash crisis, recouped through the payments schedule before Christmas. Commissioning of the new infant formula blending and packing plant at Rolleston, Canterbury, was under way with an opening expected early next year. Called Pure Nutrition, it was a 40% Westland and 60% Ausnutria joint venture, costing about $40m and providing 30 new jobs. Ausnutria was a Hong Kong-listed company with three blending and packing plants in the Netherlands and registered brands and formulas for the Chinese market. Rolleston was also home to Westland’s UHT plant, a valuable extension to optionality and the company’s ability to pay above-average milk prices. “We have the heritage and location to prove provenance and differentiate Westpro and Westgold products, which will drive sustainability in the milk price and for our farmers,” Morrison said.

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Continued from page 7

GONE: Kaipara Mayor Greg Gent has resigned after a year in the job, following chief executive Graham Sibery, who quit in August, out the door.

News

12 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Time to cut animals, plant trees Glenys Christian glenys.christian@nzx.com TRANSFORMATIONAL rather than incremental change is needed to reach New Zealand’s climate change goals, Vivid Economics engagement manager Alex Kazaglis says. “Land use patterns need to change,” he told delegates at the Environmental Defence Society’s Australia-NZ Climate Change and Business Conference on in Auckland on Wednesday. “It’s not possible to continue with the same situation.” Appearing by video link from the United Kingdom, he said there were three areas where NZ with its high agricultural emissions compared with other countries could concentrate. The first was land use intensity. While it had been estimated 5.8 gigahectares of land would be needed to support worldwide red meat production by 2030 that would drop if there was a move to non-ruminant protein, with a 15% fall if a quarter of the human diet was plant-based. The second was agronomic efficiency where improvements in fertiliser application as well as running more efficient stock and using new technology could help.

8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

BIG CHANGE: New Zealand could cut animal numbers to 5.4 million dairy cows, 2.6m beef cattle and 19.7m sheep while planting 38,000ha of exotic and 18,182ha of native trees a year, Vivid Economics engagement manager Alex Kazaglis says.

The third was greenhouse gas intensity with the options of changing animal feeds, better managing animal waste and maintaining soils so carbon stocks were built up. If land-use patterns were changed from those in 2014 it was possible for NZ to move to a pathway consistent with net zero emissions. What he called off-track agriculture would allow 6.7 million dairy cattle, 3.7m beef cattle and

29.8m sheep in 2050, all showing a 15% increase in productivity. Resourceful agriculture would see drops to 6m dairy cows, 3m beef cattle and 22.5m sheep, all showing the same 15% productivity lift. But with innovative agriculture dairy cow numbers would drop to 5.4m, beef cattle to 2.6m and sheep to 19.7m. Dairying would have a 25% productivity lift while beef and sheep stayed at 15%.

The off-track agriculture scenario would see 9300ha planted in exotic trees every year while with resourceful agriculture that would be boosted to 27,700ha and just over 9000ha of natives. The innovative scenario would see almost 38,000ha of exotics and 18,182ha of natives. “These options sound like major changes for NZ but change is not new for NZ,” he said. And the country was well placed to make the transition with an open economy where agricultural exports accounted for less than 10% of gross domestic product. There were strong institutions, macroeconomic stability, high levels of human and knowledge capital and openness to technology. The positives would be improved water, soil and air quality and a diversified and resilient economy. “But I’m not wanting to paint a picture of it being an easy thing to do,” he said. Short-term negatives would be the training needed to re-employ people displaced and there would be impacts on forestry and biodiversity. NZ also needed to consider the risks of competition from intensive overseas farming and

disruptions such as shifts to synthetic meat production. More work was needed on the scenarios and consensus was vital. Massey University sustainable energy expert Professor Ralph Sims said about 22% of total greenhouse gases came from the agrifood supply chain. Agriculture also accounted for three-quarters of freshwater withdrawals and irrigation was a high-energy user unless precision application was used. “We are pouring on water, chemicals and fertiliser and most is wasted,” he said. And materialistic, urban populations were throwing away up to one third of their food. He said Waikato River Authority member and dairy farmer Peter Buckley was a role model. Buckley told the conference that as well as planting 32,000 native trees he’d dropped herd numbers from 264 to 190 while achieving increased milk production. But Buckley said he couldn’t make further changes on his property until the Waikato Regional Council’s Plan Change One was finalised because, under present rules, vegetable growing would be a non-compliant activity. “So that is stopping innovation.”

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News

14 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Fonterra attacked on cow numbers

ON THE SPOT: Fonterra environmental manager Francesca Eggleton says the co-op is addressing emissions rather than cutting cow numbers.

the International Dairy Federation’s Standing Committee for the Environment, said Fonterra did not think in terms of environment or animals. The co-op was one of the most efficient dairy producers in the world. “But we need to nail precision farming, carbon storage and methane reduction,” she said.

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Glenys Christian glenys.christian@nzx.com

About 85% of the dairy industry’s emissions were produced onfarm, 10% in manufacturing and 5% on getting products to market. “So, it’s not always best to buy local,” she said in response to a question from Kedgley about why food miles hadn’t been mentioned. The co-op had been one of the first companies to work out just where it stood in that regard. Kedgley also wanted to know if Fonterra planned any reduction of cow numbers, to which Eggleton said it supported evidence-based setting of environmental limits. “Where they are breached by farmers we work with councils to address the issues,” she said. And Fonterra was really focusing on switching to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency and reducing energy emissions from its processing plants and transport fleet. While it had big aspirations for emission reductions overall it saw collaboration as being key and was working hard to make sure it got the foundations for its policies right. “We also have shorter term goals, so watch this space,” Eggleton said.

Glenys Christian glenys.christian@nzx.com FONTERRA’S environmental manager Francesca Eggleton was attacked over lowering cow numbers when she spoke at the Environmental Defence Society conference in Auckland last week. Massey University ecology and environmental science senior lecturer Dr Mike Joy and and Wellington Regional Council environment spokeswoman Sue Kedgely, a former Green MP, took issue with Eggleton. Joy said there had been a complete failure of land use leadership in New Zealand. Intensive agriculture was being subsidised by not charging for externalities such as water use and environmental limits that had been set were too weak. “The best outcome should be animal reduction,” he said. “Getting animals out of the system is going to have so many wins.” Eggleton, who is a member of the Government’s Biological Emissions Reference Group and

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A LOT more needs to be done to reduce agricultural emissions and a lot more rapidly, Landcorp chief executive Steve Carden says. “I’m in vehement agreement with what’s been said but how do we do it quickly – 2050 is too far away.” That time limit meant many could continue to hope a solution would come along about 2040 while, if the agricultural sector stopped being reactive, it might appear much sooner. There needed to be fewer farm animals, more trees planted and more money made off agricultural land, he said. But there were a number of constraints such as the capital cost of milking sheds that had already been built but that might not be able to be used in future. “We also have to find consumers willing to pay more for what we’re producing,” he said.

“And we will need a completely different set of skills onfarm because we have monocultural skills at the moment.” Forest and Bird chief executive Kevin Hague said there had been a revolution in land use in the last 30 years. “So now maybe a counterrevolution is needed,” he said. “It’s not just going to happen.” Damming over-extracted rivers was only driving further intensification of monocultural land use and because there had been “a massive subsidisation of irrigation” maybe there could be a switch now to fund transition advisers to help farmers make changes in their farming practices. Carden said Landcorp’s future plans had to hit both financial and environmental hurdles. “And over the last few years we haven’t been able to hit those hurdles with irrigation expansion.”

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16 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Farm to be a showcase Tim Fulton tim.fulton@nzx.com

SHOWCASE: A smart farm planned for New Zealand will follow the example of the one set up by the University of New England in Australia.

A FARMER funded showcase for Kiwi sheep and beef is modelled partly on clever Australian systems. Beef + Lamb New Zealand was looking for a hill country farm to demonstrate “market-ready technologies and new systems”, B+LNZ innovation general manager Richard Wakelin said. B+LNZ wanted to have its farm going by July next year, paid for from its research budget. The 6000 stock-unit sheep and beef farm would be authentic, relatable and profitable, Wakelin said. “Commercial viability is about the No 1 priority here.

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“There’s no use having a giant-sized laboratory.” On a continuum of research and development that was probably a D, he said. The demonstrator farm would be similar to the dairy industry’s set-up at Lincoln University and a university-run grazing farm in Australia. The University of New England had transformed a 2900ha commercial farm near its campus at Armidale in northern New South Wales into a SMART (Sustainable Manageable Accessible Rural Technologies) farm. The property was part of the A$2m SMART Farm Innovation Centre, described by the university as a research, education and outreach facility “not only for the SMART farm itself but for UNEled global advances in agriculture research and development”. Wakelin said while a number of farming organisations were successfully operating similar farm demonstration centres in NZ and Australia, the B+LNZ concept would be a first for NZ sheep and beef. Lincoln University and the dairy industry had developed the Lincoln Dairy Unit for farmers to evaluate new technologies and systems. Like Lincoln’s dairy farm, B+LNZ would be testing farm systems and understanding the link between financial and environmental performance. The budget and scope of the initiative couldn’t be confirmed till it identified a suitable farm and settled terms of use. B+LNZ would probably lease a property or go into partnership with an existing farmer at a certain “age and stage” who wanted to be part of an industry project. B+LNZ was setting up a governance group for the project and working with agribusiness consultancy AbacusBio to get it started. The government, research organisations and commercial partners would be invited to add expertise and resources, Wakelin said.

ospri.co.nz

SHEEP and cattle levies will remain unchanged for the year that started on October 1, Beef + Lamb New Zealand has decided. Chairman James Parsons said the board had reviewed budgets and activities and the levy on all sheep slaughtered would remain 60c a head and the levy on all beef and dairy cattle but excluding bobby calves would stay at $4.40 a head. “Some key areas are improved promotion of our products in partnership with processors, better extension and an influential voice with government to ensure farmers’ backs are covered on issues such as biosecurity, environment and compliance issues.” There was also a big ambition and urgency to see the NZ red meat story told, ensuring urban audiences and global customers understood the sector, its value and market difference, he said. “Farmers want to promote the value of NZ’s natural pasture-fed beef and lamb and high-quality farming systems and draw in consumers with that story, especially as synthetic proteins emerge more into the market.” The environment had emerged as a concern for farmers, particularly around water quality and farming. “Farmers want better connections with all New Zealanders and ensure they better understand that farmers value the environment and are making big efforts to protect and enhance it. “At the same time they want support for more actions and solutions, more environmental planning workshops and tools to help measure the impact of what they’re doing to improve the environment and more engagement with government to ensure practical policies are in place,” Parsons said.

News

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Veterinary medicine proposals go too far Neal Wallace neal.wallace@nzx.com PROPOSALS by an international panel of experts to reduce increasing human resistance to antibiotics might go too far according, a local authority on the issue says. The panel identified the use of antibiotics in food animals as leading to drug resistant infections in humans but Professor Kurt Krause from Otago University’s biochemistry department had reservations about its recommendations. They were a starting point, he said. Writing in the Science Journal the expert panel recommended enforced regulations to cap the global use of antimicrobials in food animals, reducing meat consumption and imposing a global fee on the veterinary use of antimicrobials. It estimated a cap could curb use by up to 80% while imposing a fee could reduce global consumption by a third

and create new revenue for investment into researching new antibiotics. “The large and expanding use of antimicrobials in livestock, a consequence of growing demand for animal protein, is of considerable concern in light of the threat of antimicrobial resistance.

Use of antimicrobials in animals has been linked to drug-resistant infections in animals and humans.

“Use of antimicrobials in animals has been linked to drug-resistant infections in animals and humans,” the panel said. Next September a group established by the United

HANG ON: Most people favour the treatment without penalty of animals that need veterinary care, Professor Kurt Krause says.

Nations would report on progress in the global response to antimicrobial resistance, including the role of food animals, and the expert panel said its report and recommendations provided an information baseline. Krause said while he was enthusiastic about the panel’s goals, if the proposals became enforceable laws they would be costly and difficult to police and enforce. “I am also not comfortable with the surcharges on the veterinary use of antimicrobials that are directed at ill or diseased animals, which is different from their use simply to help animals gain more weight and I suspect the majority of people would favour the treatment without penalty of animals that need veterinary care.” Krause said the report was a starting point for dialogue about a vitally important medical issue but adjustments were needed to the recommendations before application.

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News

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Rural Delivery hits road block Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@nzx.com THE long-running farming television show Rural Delivery will appeal to industry supporters to extend its run to a 14th season next year, Showdown Productions principal Tracy Mika says. Showdown’s most-recent application to NZ On Air was rejected on the grounds of an extended funding freeze and new priorities in multi-media content. Rural Delivery had been shown on Saturday mornings for 13 years. It was made by Showdown Productions of Auckland using contracted researchers, crew members and post-production. Mika said each episode cost about $30,000 to make because of the diverse and geographically widespread content, showing stories in primary production, service industries and science that would remain untold otherwise. “We have received NZ On Air funding for such a long time because Rural Delivery fitted its criteria for rural and regional stories. “These have been stories for farmers, as distinct from Country Calendar and its stories about farmers. “Those reasons have not changed but NZ On Air said it had to make cuts because its government funding had not

BLACKOUT: Farming scenes like this will no longer be on television unless Rural Delivery finds new funding.

increased for 10 years and it had many more demands and new priorities.” In 2016 Rural Delivery had a total viewership of 1.965 million, averaging 39,000 an episode. This year’s 13th season attracted

53,600 viewers an episode until June when the funding application was made. The programme was shown four times each weekend and was available on demand and in the Pacific Islands.

Four episodes were recently selected by Air New Zealand to play on its flights. Showdown also maintained a Rural Delivery website with all items ever made, as a resource available to schools, academics,

researchers and interested people. Mika said the next step was to approach the large number of supporters of the programme and explain the funding needs. It was hoped some of them would become financial partners to continue to have their relevant stories told on television. She was reluctant to go to full sponsorship because of the editorial input and selection that implied. Federated Farmers president Katie Milne said NZ On Air funding was supposed to reflect NZ identity and culture and Rural Delivery had done that for 13 years. The timing of decision was also unfortunate as farming became increasingly concerned about its image among urban New Zealanders, as highlighted by the recent political campaigning. “We’ve been saying this for some time now, the need for urban and rural New Zealand to reconnect. “Our challenge, as farmers, is to tell our story and we rely on programming like Rural Delivery to help get that message across.” Milne said Rural Delivery deserved future funding and perhaps a different time slot would attract a bigger audience. • Disclosure: Hugh Stringleman is a researcher for Rural Delivery.

News

20 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Body for infrastructure needed Richard Rennie richard.rennie@nzx.com AS LOCAL infrastructure assets age there are calls for the new government to consider a commission to better manage asset replacement and development. While telecommunications networks were progressing well, thanks largely to the ultrafast broadband initiative, other services including water, roads and electricity were struggling to keep up either with growth in some regions or declining ratepayer and user bases in others, Infrastructure New Zealand chief executive Stephen Selwood said. Power networks around the country were undergoing massive upgrades to poles and transmission equipment with companies like Aurora committing more than $30 million to system upgrades and Powerco replacing more than 40,000 aging power poles, almost 15% of its inventory. “But if we want resistant infrastructure that does not fail we have to accept as users we need to pay for it and I am not sure if we have had that discussion robustly enough,” he said.

BROKE: Councils don’t have a revenue base for renewing road and water assets, Infrastructure New Zealand chief executive Stephen Selwood says.

The electricity industry talked of a “wall of wire” it faced as systems installed in the 1950s and 60s needed replacing in the next five years. Much of the country’s water, power and even road infrastructure had been operating for longer than 40 years and small local government areas were particularly constrained as their

ratepayer base hollowed out and the remaining population aged. “They simply do not have a revenue base with which to renew them,” Selwood said. “The office of the auditor general identified recently that there was a $7 billion gap between depreciation of assets and what councils had to invest in them and that was just for water systems. “It is a similar situation for local roads, which are extremely variable.” He sympathised with local power companies required to make heavy investments in infrastructural upgrades but often came up against users who did not want price increases to pay for them. “It may be that rural people are prepared to accept power outages that will arise.” Selwood said his organisation would welcome an infrastructure commission that provided more of a strategic overview to the assets, pulling together the separate areas of water, power and roads. “At the moment you have lines companies, council water supply and roading. There is no one there to step back and look at what is the best outcome for all three in an area.”

He agreed merging technologies like fibre optic broadband supply going along power poles made the need for a more strategic use of the assets even more vital. “You run the risk that if the poles the cables are being hung off are unstable, you increase the risk of a cascade failure where power supply failure causes internet failure and you lose two services.”

It is not anyone’s fault, it has just come over time. Katie Milne Federated Farmers Federated Farmers president Katie Milne said she had not considered a commission for infrastructure before but acknowledged the state of infrastructure assets was the elephant in the room. “We know many of these services are approaching the end of their life and need renewing. “The question is how to allocate

that cost which lasts into the next generation. “As a problem it has been under the radar, when you have small councils having to discharge sewerage after rainfall because they don’t have the capacity to manage it. “It is not anyone’s fault, it has just come over time.” Local government NZ president and Dunedin mayor Dave Cull said his organisation would be open to discussing a commission for infrastructure. “We have not, however, gone into it any further at this stage.” Infrastructure funding was, however, at the top of LGNZ’s discussion list with a new government. Funding methods needed an overhaul. “We would like to see alternative funding mechanisms to the rating system discussed. “It is too narrow for funding councils and it affects not only small councils.” He confirmed one option LGNZ was open to was for a portion of GST to be channelled solely to councils, as a simple, universal means of revenue collection. “This issue of funding is one of the most pressing issues all councils face at this point.”

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agrievents Wednesday 18/10/2017 to Thursday 19/10/2017 NZGSTA Annual Conference Venue: Rydges Hotel, Featherston Street, Wellington Contact: tricia.radford@seedindustrynz.co.nz Website: www.nzgsta.co.nz Wednesday 18/10/2017 to Thursday 19/10/2017 East Coast Field Days 2017 Two day agri business event, promoting agriculture in the East Otago area. Venue: Palmerston saleyards, State Highway 85, Palmerston, Otago Contact: President, Paul Mutch, 021 800 833 or Secretary, Maria Barta, 021 211 1111 Email: info@eastotagofielddays.co.nz Website: www.eastotagofielddays.co.nz Wednesdays 18/10/2017 & 15/11/2017 AWDT Understanding Your Farming Business 3 full-day workshops and an evening graduation ceremony run over four months. Venue: Moutere Hills Community Centre, Upper Moutere Contact: anna@awdt.org.nz Website: To register for the programme follow this link http://www.awdt.org.nz/programmes/understanding-yourfarming-business/

OUT: Storms and high winds disrupted power supply in many parts of NZ.

Silly bureaucracy protects bad trees

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FARMERS with trees threatening power lines might have a tougher time in future dodging requests from lines companies to have them trimmed. This winter had proved particularly challenging for lines companies to maintain supply, with multiple storms and high winds disrupting supply in most parts of the country at some stage. Many of the disruptions were caused by trees that had become too high, falling or blowing branches onto lines causing them to arc out or come down, Electricity Networks Association chief executive Graeme Peters said.

His association wanted more power to compel landowners to trim trees far enough to not interfere with lines during wind. “At present we don’t have this ability. For example, a 10m high tree may be only able to be 4m back from lines. It is still too close when wind affects it.” The electricity (hazards from trees) regulations 2003 covered the threat. “One of the things is to increase the distance of trees from lines. “There is also a lot of silly bureaucracy around tree regulations. “For example, if you want to issue a cut-and-trim notice it needs to be per

tree required, which is not suitable if you are looking at a forest of trees. “The landowner could make things difficult by requesting us to issue that notice per tree.” Peters confirmed this has been a particularly difficult winter for maintaining electricity supply but a large portion of outages were attributable to trees on any given year. “Some of our lines company members are spending $80 per customer per year to fix lines taken down by trees. “Then there is the cost to customers of the power outage on top of that.”

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22 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Landscape changes radically

SHAKEN: Don Galletly was one of the farmers hit by the Kaikoura earthquake.

Tim Fulton tim.fulton@nzx.com KAIKOURA dairy farmers with “ridiculously high” water tables since the earthquake are turning to Waikato and Southland for tips on farming heavy soils. It had been either deluge or drought on the Kaikoura Plains since the November 2016 quake. Farmers reported some bores have dried up while others areas were now more suitable for wetlands. About 30 rural landowners from the Kaikoura Plains and Inland Road area met at Donegal House last week to hear more about the Kaikoura Plains Recovery Project. It was allocated $600,000 over three years from the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Earthquake Recovery Fund. Project manager and Environment Canterbury land adviser Jodie Hoggard said it was so wet across parts of the Kaikoura Plains the council and industry groups like DairyNZ and Fonterra were looking to Southland and Waikato for advice. One Kaikoura farm owner reported 60% of his property was too wet to farm and was working with the regional council on an acceptable way to spread consented effluent. Water levels had been “ridiculously high” since the quakes and a wet winter hadn’t helped, she said.

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“People are saying ‘my normal’s not looking normal any more’. How do we work with it?” Kaikoura District councillor and farmer Tony Blunt, a member of the recovery project’s governance group, said it would be beneficial to get Lidar data from ECan to show the change of levels in paddocks so the information could be passed on to farmers. They would then know of any new flood hazards and if and where they needed to put in new drains, extend old ones and which parts of their farms were undrainable. ECan land management adviser Michael Bennett said everyone needed to use a number eight wire mentality to get the most out of the funding. “We have to be a bit creative, remain practical and not get too flash or too technical with the ideas to get the most out of the funding, otherwise the money will be used up quickly.” MPI’s Kaikoura fund was originally set up to be used on hill country but it became evident Kaikoura Plains farmers were as good a fit, if not better. Other members of the plains recovery governance group were Mark Hislop, Simon Mackle, Catherine and Rod Lamb, Blunt and Gina Solomon. The group was looking for another community representative, preferably from the plains area. Interested parties could contact Hoggard on 027 551 5902 or jodie.hoggard@ecan.govt.nz. The launch of the Kaikoura Plains Recovery Project was on October 18 at Donegal House from 7pm.

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THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Taking time and talking works LISA Kendall runs her own hire-afarmer business serving lifestyle blocks in and around Karaka in South Auckland. She has other irons in the fire as well – she’s raising East Friesian sheep and hoping their milk will find a niche market in Auckland’s flourishing cafe scene and supermarkets. After studying at Lincoln University she moved back north and lives in a renovated barn on her parents’ lifestyle block with her partner who works in the city. “Often there’s a stereotype where the man does all the farming and the woman does the housework. It’s the other way round for me,” she said. Her job brought plenty of variety from tractor work and fencing to livestock management and pony exercising. “I really enjoy being outside on the land working with the animals, being my own boss and having a job that challenges me every day.”

I really plan out my week so I have break times and get off the farm.

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about the things I couldn’t control. “To do a great job tomorrow and be productive you need a good night’s sleep and a fresh mind. That was a great lesson.” She also learnt to be less demanding of herself. “I think a lot of rural women compare themselves with other women in a way that just adds pressure. I’d say don’t compare yourself to other people, just focus on what you can manage and be proud of what you do.” Kendall said heading to the Farmstrong website for tips and advice helped her get through the tough times. “I think Farmstrong is fantastic. Focusing on the Big 5, especially taking time to enjoy the small things we often overlook when we get busy really helped me when I let things get on top of me. “It made me realise I’d forgotten the things I really loved about farming and the reasons I got into it in the first place. “Almost everyone has things that stress them out. I think the key is, don’t be shy to ask for help and let those closest to you know what’s going on.” is the official media partner of Farmstrong

But farming in a traditionally male-dominated industry wasn’t always easy. “One guy called and asked me to cut down some trees. “I turned up in my ute and had two chainsaws and a pole saw in there and he asked me if I could use all that. I said ‘It’d be surprising if I turned up and I didn’t know how to use it’.” The hardest part of her job was working alone all day and managing the workload. “It can really get to you and I don’t think people realise until they are feeling a bit down that what would’ve helped them all along is if they were chatting to people and taking time to go out with their friends.” These days she keeps a diary that helps her prioritise time. “I really plan out my week so I have break times and get off the farm. That’s the key to staying well.” Getting involved in the community helped get her off the farm. “I’ve been volunteering at Riding for the Disabled. It’s relaxing and it makes me feel good to know I’m being helpful to people. Giving back like that has a big impact on your wellbeing.” Last year, Kendall entered the Young Farmer of the Year competition. She ended up making the finals and finishing fourth – a terrific first-up effort. The scrutiny of competition and the media attention that came with it taught her valuable lessons about managing stress. “After some sleepless nights I learnt to relax and not worry

Lisa Kendall’s top wellbeing tips: Getting time off “I make sure my time off really is time off by driving somewhere far away. That way I know I can’t rush out and do some work if I have a few spare hours. I head to a friend’s or to the beach.”

READY: Lisa Kendall makes sure she is equipped for work both physically and mentally.

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Staying connected “Connecting with others is about getting beyond your comfort zone. Organisations like Young Farmers or Rural Women are great for that because you make a commitment to turn up. They offer a chance to do something that’s helpful and productive but also different and relaxing.” Managing fatigue and burn-out “Fatigue and lack of sleep have been a problem for me. For me it’s about diarising my week and putting break time into my schedule.” Staying active “If you start the day doing some exercise I think it helps your brain work better and you start your day knowing you’ve already achieved something good.” Eating well “Neglecting to eat makes you feel tired, affects your work and makes you grumpy as well. I really focus on making my lunch the night before so that I’ve got something healthy to eat and a reason to take a break.”

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24 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Live export row drags in Kiwi lamb Colin Ley BRITAIN’S National Sheep Association is urging the United Kingdom government not to overreact to campaigners who oppose live exports, citing lamb imports from New Zealand as one of the reasons why its members depend so heavily on overseas sales. Association chief executive Phil Stocker said the UK annually exported up to 40% of its sheep meat but then took in lamb imports of a similar volume. “The historic reason we export and import was to balance seasonality and to accommodate a preference for particular cuts,” he said. “Now, however, we work within a global trading environment which is driven by economics. “Frankly, the more the UK supply chain chooses to import lamb from countries like NZ,

the more we are pushed to export. “There is no doubt British farmers and our supply chain could innovate and adapt over time in order to even out seasonality if we were protected from imports but our future within the World Trade Organisation and a government which wants us to be global free-trade leaders means market protection is unlikely.” Noting that anti-live export campaigners clearly wanted to ensure the best animal welfare standards for livestock in transit, Stocker warned that some of their ideas on how to achieve that were highly questionable. “The answer would be to find a way of ensuring consistent enforcement of regulations right across the European Union but I accept this is difficult,” he said. “In addition, with Brexit seen as

BALANCING ACT: British farmers have to export live animals to counter meat imports from New Zealand, National Sheep Association chief executive Phil Stocker says.

an opportunity to part company with EU regulations, several different calls have been made and messages have become inconsistent. “Suggestions to limit all journey times to eight hours do not consider the infrastructure needed to support this. “There simply aren’t enough abattoirs or supply chains to allow it and if this resulted in a farmer only having one market to sell to, getting a competitive price is unlikely. “Banning live exports from the

UK is another call being made but this would stop what can be a very direct trade from the southeast of England to northern Europe with journey times that can be less than some internal UK trips. “It has even been suggested we ban live animals travelling across water, something which causes no welfare problems. “Banning it would finish many of our island farming communities and trade within the UK would be discriminated. “Exporters of breeding animals

comply with strict regulations and we should aim for all animals to be treated in this way. “The emphasis should be on a joint effort from governments, farming organisations and welfare campaigners to ensure EU regulations are properly adhered to. “If we can’t rely on other EU states to do this effectively then exploring the potential of UK-assured routes to ensure regulatory compliance is something I would welcome,” Stocker said.

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THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Woodchip wall to filter nitrate Tim Fulton tim.fulton@nzx.com A 60-METRE wall of woodchips and gravel is set to be entrenched into lowland Canterbury soil to remove nitrates from groundwater. Environmental Science and Research principal scientist Murray Close said its proposed denitrification barrier near Christchurch would be the first time such a wall had been inserted into a gravel groundwater system. A denitrification wall, also known as a denitrifying permeable reactive barrier, worked like a groundwater filter. The organic matter fuelled microbial activity that stripped nitrate from groundwater passing through the wall. Similar walls had worked well in Waikato sand aquifers but water flowed through Canterbury gravel up to 100 times faster, Close said. The barrier at Silverstream Reserve close to Kaiapoi and the Waimakariri River was likely to be 60 metres wide and 10 metres deep – dug two or three metres below the water table. It needed to be long enough, wide enough and deep enough to handle the volume of water flowing through a network of underground channels.

On a broad scale you can get a fairly accurate measure of where water’s going because it goes downhill. Murray Close ESR The twisting, two or three metre wide “open channels” along braided rivers like the Waimakariri had no natural clay or silt barriers to slow the movement of water and nitrate. ESR was working with geophysicists to find the channels, using salt to track the directional flow. “On a broad scale you can get a fairly accurate measure of where water’s going because it goes downhill. “But on a local scale the angle (of the channels) could shift about 30-40 degrees from the average direction.” Close said they would dig a trench, screen gravel, mix it with compost at a 1:1 ratio and backfill it with woodchips. Fine and very large gravel would be removed from the groundwater flow and microbial reaction. ESR had been working on the “fate and transport” of nitrate in NZ groundwater systems for the past decade. The Crown agency found the country’s alluvial gravel aquifers had “negligible ability to naturally attenuate nitrate and, in many locations, groundwater systems have reached the limit of mitigating nitrate pollution through natural dilution”. ESR was applying to Waimakariri District Council for consent to use Silverstream Reserve and if successful it would apply to Environment Canterbury for resource consent. ESR had consulted Ngai Tahu about the project, including any cultural or technical concerns. In an unrelated project, ECan was working with Geological and Nuclear Science on groundwater modelling for the Waimakariri to determine whether water channels on the north side of the river were connected to Christchurch’s aquifers.

Your comment counts Add your voice to this story at farmersweekly.co.nz

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26 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Dairy awards open Friday

Fonterra farmers begin voting Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@nzx.com FONTERRA’S farmershareholders have begun a 21-day voting period for three farmer candidates for the board and for shareholders’ councillors in 10 wards, each with two candidates. Long-time sitting director John Monaghan, from Wairarapa, and newcomers Andy Macfarlane of MidCanterbury and Brent Goldsack, of Waikato, each needed 50% approval of all Fonterra farmers who voted, to be elected. They came through the independent selection panel, headed by Dame Alison Paterson, tasked with finding three well-qualified candidates to fill three board vacancies this year. One-term director Leonie Guiney did not make it through the selection and nomination process. There were no subsequent self-nominations and so the procedure continued to the vote of shareholder approval. Voting packs and the notice of the annual meeting on Thursday, November 2, at the Whareroa plant, southern Taranaki, were mailed to shareholders on October 9. Farmers were also being asked to approve Bruce Hassall as an independent director, replacing David Jackson.

ORGANISERS of the regional competitions are ready to host launch events with just under a week to go till entries open in the 2018 Dairy Industry Awards. The launch events provided a chance for farmers and workers to get more information about the awards and which category they could enter, general manager Chris Keeping said. Entries in the share farmer, dairy manager, dairy trainee categories would be accepted online at www. dairyindustryawards.co.nz from Friday October 20.

If you enter the Bay of Plenty regional awards before midnight on October 20 you’re in the draw to win a $300 Bunnings voucher as well as being eligible for the national early-bird prize.

STANDING TOGETHER: Farmers are being asked to approve the nominations of, from left, John Monaghan, Andy Macfarlane and Brent Goldsack to the Fonterra board.

Voting would continue until Tuesday, October 31, when the results would be announced. The three board candidates would present their qualifications and answer questions at seven meetings of shareholders from Monday, October 16, to Thursday, October 19, in a roadshow travelling from Invercargill to Whangarei. Each meeting would be chaired by Fonterra Shareholders’ Council (FSC) chairman Duncan Coull. Elections for councillors were required in the following wards: Waikato West, Waipa,

South Waikato, Central Plateau, Central Taranaki, Central Districts West, Wairarapa, Tasman/Marlborough, Central Canterbury and Eastern Southland. Elections were not required in the other 15 wards, in 14 of which sitting councillors were nominated unopposed. The only newcomer elected unopposed was Luke Beehre, of ward 1 in Northland, a leading Jersey breeder and former rural banker. This year’s election for the FSC was unusual in that the governance and representation review approved by shareholders last year was

implemented with a downsizing of the council this year. The councillors decided to do that in one year by declaring all new enlarged 25 wards vacant. Eleven of the 35 sitting councillors retired and the rest re-nominated in their wards. Nine now faced a contest. Wairarapa had two new candidates, Craig Bowyer and John Stevenson. All successful candidates would take office at the end of the annual meeting. Six ordinary business resolutions were also put to voters, with no remits from shareholders.

Not every region was holding a launch event with Bay of Plenty choosing to have a prize for the region’s early-bird entries. “If you enter the Bay of Plenty regional awards before midnight on October 20 you’re in the draw to win a $300 Bunnings voucher as well as being eligible for the national earlybird prize.” Once again there were travel voucher prizes up for grabs for entries made before November 10. The vouchers were for $4000 for share farmers, $3000 for managers and $2000 for trainees. The regional launches started in Hawke’s Bay/Wairarapa, Manawatu and Southland/Otago on Wednesday with the rest over the next forthnight.

More information on the launch events and early-bird prizes was available at www.dairyindustryawards.co.nz/ regions.

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THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Mataura Milk building on track Neal Wallace neal.wallace@nzx.com THE country’s newest milk processing factory is on track to start operating next August but its backers are quick to distance themselves from being deemed a traditional milk powder producer. Mataura Valley Milk was building a dedicated nutritional plant north of Gore and plant manager Bernard May said the formulas it produced would comply with some of the highest quality standards in the world. “We talk about building the world’s best nutrition plant and that includes a lot of very specific technology and processes which are now being put together and which are unique in Australasia.” May said construction of the $250 million plant was on track for opening next August with work now focused on installing the machinery and technology needed to produce formula. It had held discussions with farmers

and in coming months would provide those interested in supplying the company with information so they could make decisions. The company needed only 30 to 35 farmer suppliers because milk constituted only about 20% of the content of infant formula. Farmers would own about 20% of the shares in the company, a move May said adopted the best elements of a co-operative by providing them with a stake in the processing and marketing of products. Mataura Valley Milk would employ about 65 people with the exacting manufacturing process requiring highly qualified microbiologists and food scientists. The company was 72% owned by China Animal Husbandry Group, 20% by farmer-suppliers with the rest of shareholders Hamilton based nutritional producer Bodco and local Southland investors. Companies office records show China Animal Husbandry Group owned 57% of Bodco.

CARRY ON: Work continues on the country’s newest milk processing plant.

Lost profit dispute reaches the court A DISPUTE over ownership new milk processing facilities in Southland has hit the courts with a jilted group of investors claiming to have missed out on a major opportunity to tap the Chinese market worth at least $227 million. The tussle harks back to September 2014 when Brian Wagstaff and Richard Young set up a company called Danpac (NZ) to build and run an infant formula factory and hold a minority interest in a site for a proposed milk powder processing factory that was to be owned by Mataura Valley Milk. They entered into a heads of agreement with Randolph van der Burgh and Geoffrey Pollard, Pure Elite Holdings, PEF NZ and Ever Health NZ that both parties

would pour capital into the entity to build a dairy exporter targeting China. Neither group ended up injecting their capital and Wagstaff and Young took back control of the entity, later amalgamating Danpac with another entity Bodco, which counted Chinese state-owned enterprise China Animal Husbandry Group as its biggest shareholder, bankrolling the plant. A September 25 judgment in the High Court in Hamilton showed van der Burgh, Pollard and the PEH group of companies claimed the agreement didn’t have a fixed timeframe, meaning delays to capitalise Danpac didn’t breach the deal but the moves to push them out were in

breach of the heads of agreement. They estimated their loss to be at least $55m from being deprived of the equity stake in Danpac and at least $227m in lost value, the judgment said. “I apprehend that the second claimed head of loss represents the diminishment of the value of the first plaintiff because it no longer has in place the connection with Danpac, which was a link in the manufacturing and marketing chain that would have led to sales of infant formula products in China,” Associate Judge Jeremy Doogue said. “No doubt the assumption is made that the loss of that business, which would have been profitable, has resulted in the diminishment in value of the first plaintiff which was the party that

was going to have the advantage of the contractual entitlements arising from the relationship with the defendants and Danpac.” The judge dismissed an application by Wagstaff, Young and Bodco to toss out the case, saying it was arguable the agreement wasn’t clear about when the capital needed to be contributed and it was “a long way” from meeting the test for a summary disposal. Dooge said the scale of the damages being claimed “may give rise to some scepticism” but capable operators could “derive substantial revenue from the Chinese market” and missing out on that opportunity “would understandably be damaging to the plaintiffs”. – BusinessDesk

No doubt the assumption is made that the loss of that business, which would have been profitable, has resulted in the diminishment in value of the first plaintiff which was the party that was going to have the advantage of the contractual entitlements arising from the relationship with the defendants and Danpac.

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28 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Dairy markets still balanced Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@nzx.com

Production in August was 2% higher, year-on-year, helped by good milk prices and ample corn at 10% cheaper prices. But US dairy consumption growth rates had slowed and stocks of skim milk powder were growing. On balance, Rabobank predicted only a modest increase in exportable surplus over the coming 12 months. A solid rebound in milk production was under way across South America but dairy consumption was subject to economic headwinds. The very wet start to the 2018 season in New Zealand was holding down milk production but conditions could improve, local dairy analyst Emma Higgins said. In the first quarter of the new Australian season milk production returned to growth after seven successive quarters of decline. The season should deliver 2.5% growth, supported by improving farm profitability and favourable seasonal conditions. “With more milk hitting the global market, the resilience of Chinese import purchases will be

GLOBAL dairy markets remain well-balanced, hence the relative price stability over the past three months, Rabobank dairy analysts say. Milk production in the main exporting countries was beginning to respond to high farmgate prices and that might mean prices had peaked for this cycle. Chinese milk supply was facing some headwinds and rejuvenated import buying had supported world prices, the latest Rabobank Global Dairy Quarterly said. As New Zealand and Australia approached their spring peaks of production some pressure would be applied to the global market but that was not expected to be overwhelming, the analysts said. With input from analysts around the world, Rabobank said Europe’s milk production growth rate was higher now than in 2016. The United States industry had notched up more than 40 months of consecutive milk supply growth and that would continue, with regional variations.

SLOW: A wet start to the year is holding back milk production, Rabobank analyst Emma Higgins says.

crucial when it comes to keeping markets in balance,” the report said. “Chinese demand has improved, local supply is facing headwinds but faltering demand will quickly see the market oversupplied. “Now the infant formula brands that have been registered are being announced, this will lead to short-term restocking of these brands by distributors.” Rabobank forecast that whole milk powder prices would be US$3200/tonne in the final quarter of 2017, falling into the $2900 to $3100 range next year. It predicted that butter would

fall from $6000 to $5300 by this time in 2018. Cheddar cheese would fall from $4200 to $3600 over the next 12 months and skim milk powder would stay around $1900 on average because of the European Union stocks hanging over the world market. The Australian dairy year ended in June with a milk production volume down by 6% to 9.015 billion litres. “The latest rainfall outlook suggests spring conditions will be mostly normal across southern Australia, which is welcome news. “Nevertheless, debt levels are high onfarm, equity needs to be

rebuilt and confidence levels are still low, although improving.” Murray Goulburn was predicting $5.20/kg MS while other processors were in the range $5.70 to $6.10. “The outcome of Murray Goulburn’s strategic review and reports of a variety of third-party proposals continue to dominate industry headlines. “The company is considering all options. “Any major transaction will require 90% shareholder approval,” said report lead author and senior dairy analyst Michael Harvey, based in Melbourne.

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News

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Kiwi food supply less secure Stephen Bell stephen.bell@nzx.com NEW Zealand has fallen three places on the global food security rankings to 14th equal in an assessment of 113 countries. Its score of 81 out of a possible 100 points was just 0.5 of a point lower than last year’s rating on the table that saw Ireland replace the United States as the most food secure country on the planet, just five points ahead of NZ, though both those countries had reduced food security. Change to the NZ ranking over the last five years averaged zero. In the Asia-Pacific region NZ was ranked

third behind Singapore and Australia but ahead of Japan, South Korea, Malaysia and China in that order. More than 60% of countries’ food security had deteriorated in the last year as the world’s rating slipped for the first time in five years, the survey the Economist’s intelligence unit found. It put that down to worsening political instability affecting both rich and poor countries alike as increased migration put strains on social welfare mechanisms and global aid agencies’ ability to respond. NZ had 14 strengths (ratings of 75 or more out of 100) and no weaknesses the unit said in ranking NZ against the all-

countries average of 57.3. On the three core categories NZ ranked 14th for food affordability with 80.9, 11th for availability with 81and 19th for quality and safety with 81.3. It got 100 for food safety, presence of food safety net programmes, farmer access to finance, nutritional standards, corruption and the proportion of the population under the global poverty line. Other ratings were 99.5 for agricultural import tariffs, 97.3 for the volatility of agricultural production, 92.9 for diet diversification, 89.8 for agricultural infrastructure, 87.8 for food consumption as a share of household expenditure, 87.4 for food loss, 82.4 for the political stability risk and 77.8 for sufficiency of supply. However, for public spending on agricultural research and development NZ scored only 25 out of the 100 and that was a 10% improvement on 2016. However, NZ still managed to rank 17th in that category. The Economist said spending on agricultural research and development was a proxy for agricultural innovation and technology that increased market efficiency and access. Last year NZ’s public spending on agricultural research and development fell 1%. From 2008 to 2014 NZ’s growth in private sector agricultural research and development spending had been 12.3% compared to 87.3% in France, 68.5% in Australia and 65.3% in Germany, according to figures from the Organisation for

Economic Co-operation and Development. The Economist said ending world hunger by 2030 was expected to cost an extra US$11 billion a year but persistent austerity across the advanced economies was threatening the target. “Notably, falls in public sector investment in the agriculture sector are increasingly putting strain on globalised food systems. “Five of the 10 most food-secure countries – Canada, France, Germany, Ireland and the US – saw their food security scores fall this year as a result of their reduced public expenditure on agricultural research and development. “Though private sector investment in agriculture has grown in most high-income countries in the past few years there remains a large funding gap across the globe.” The index had introduced a new data set, Natural Resources and Resilience, measuring the impact of climate-related and natural resource risks on overall food security. In the overall measure for the category NZ ranked 19 and was also 19 in the subcategory for exposure to those risks. Its highest ranking in the subsets was first equal with 22 other countries on 100 poiints for adaptive capacity. It ranked 18 for water, 33 equal for sensitivity, 36 for demographic stresses, 53 for land and 102 for oceans.

To read the report and use the interactive graphics got tofoodsecurityindex.eiu.com

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Newsmaker

30 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Stock imports help exports to United States Knowing what they are breeding and introducing new blood are keys to cracking the big time of selling grassfed beef to fussy American eaters, according to Tom and Gerald Hargreaves of Kakahu Stud who have not only imported American Angus stock but also get the resulting heifers DNA tested there. They spoke to Alan Williams about their operation.

SNIP from the ear of young heifer calves could be the key to bridging the meat quality consistency gap between New Zealand Angus beef cattle and the best American animals, South Canterbury stud breeder Tom Hargreaves says. For the last couple of years his Kakahu Stud has sent samples to a United States laboratory for DNA testing to show the calves’ genetic make-up. “In the past we’ve had to breed from a heifer to see what it can do for us but this test is supposed to be equal to having 15 calves on the ground.” US consumers wanted to eat beef from grass-fed cattle so bought prime NZ product but there was still a gap in the flavour and tenderness consistency between that and what they could buy domestically, Hargreaves said. “It’s narrowing but we’re still a long way behind and DNA testing before we breed from heifers could help rocket us ahead again. “We do produce good tender meat but we do need to do more and there is progress being made, including the independent trials being done around the country by Beef + Lamb Genetics.” Kakahu Stud, near Geraldine, imported Angus bulls from the US to give its home-bred cows a genetics boost and the stud’s operation was totally performance-driven to attain that all-the-time flavour excellence. Hargreaves had just come from a record spring yearling bull sale

with the average price jumping about $1100 over last year to above $4100 a head, providing encouragement for the main sale of 18-month bulls next June. The yearling bulls were sold to be mated with heifers, highlighting the Kakahu strategy begun by Gerald Hargreaves when he started going to the US 25 years ago to buy Angus bulls and now carried on by son Tom, who has taken over management of the 1200ha property with sheep and a smaller Charolais stud as well. Gerald was a stalwart for the NZ breed before he saw what was on offer in the US and was quickly converted. There were just so many proven bulls to choose from. They’ve believed for years now that the NZ breed would remain static without the outside influence. “It’s all about the end-game, the end-product and the consumer. That and having progeny bred to last, with fertility and structure,’’ Tom said. The programme was data-rich with carcase detail, growth rates, breeding values and the IMF ratio, which described the marbling effect giving the meat its flavour. The objective was a breed with a shorter gestation, by just a few days, with easy (unassisted) calving of a resulting smaller calf, which had not grown out fully in the womb but then had a fast growth rate once it was born. “If you have a calf born 10 days early and it grows 1kg a day and

EXPERT EYES: Kakahu Stud manager Tom Hargreaves and PGG Wrightson auctioneer Jonty Hyslop checked the stock before the auction.

if you have a hundred or so them then you’re really talking.” They work to sell calves to commercial farmers confident they can kill out a steer at 16 to 18 months with a processing carcase at 58% of live weight, rather than waiting till 24 months and having a 52% to 54% carcase. “You’re talking more meat and that’s more money for doing nothing extra.” Tom combines his farming business with an architectural practice operated from home. The work mix was about 70% farming, including the paper work, and 30% on house designing. He worked in commercial design in Christchurch then Melbourne before returning to the farm. Wife Anna was also an architect and they would have stayed in Melbourne if they hadn’t had the farm to come back to. “We love living here and architecture is my passion,’’ he said. They work as a team on residential projects with Tom doing the shell and floor plan and Anna all the interior design. Current work includes homes at Tekapo and in North Canterbury. Anna was also a graphic designer and operated the stud farm’s website. Hargreaves said he had very good staff doing the day-to-day

farm work – two on stock work, a tractor driver and a general hand. Kakahu Stud also sold about 100 in-calf heifers each year to help commercial farmers upgrade their herds quicker than they could otherwise. The June sale of 18-month bulls

He keeps on coming back WEST Otago farmer Harry Brennsell has been buying bulls off Kakahu for 25 years, buying every year at the main June sale and the yearling bulls in the spring. The genetic quality of the animals had improved every year. “I think they’re the top bulls in NZ for genetics,” the 76-year-old lifetime farmer said. He bought two bulls at the latest sale, following his usual system. He went through the sale catalogue to work out all the bulls that had the genetic requirements he wanted. “We sorted out six this time and when we got there to see them, two had the confirmation that suited us so we bid on them. “We had to work hard for them and got them at about the average price.” Brennsell’s view was that

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for mating with adult cows would remain the main bull sale though numbers would be kept around the current level of 100 to 120. After this year’s success growth was likely in the yearling sale numbers, probably up to 40 next year from the 30 this year.

farmers must keep improving their herds and that could be done only through the genetics programme. “It’s no use just buying the prettiest bull.” Brennsell was a believer in the use of American bulls in the breed because of the diversity and proven results they brought. He’d also had a long-term practice of mating the heifers. “That’s very important because you’re here to make money and there’s no point having them running around not producing and if they calf as heifers their milk is better as they get older.” Brennsell still worked the cattle though his son Lloyd had taken over most of the running of their sheep and cattle farm. They would be mating 300 heifers with the yearling bulls he bought.

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New thinking

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Laser throws light on emissions As farmers and researchers grapple with nitrate losses into waterways and nitrous oxide to the air, half the challenge has been how best to measure them to even begin to better understand their behaviour. When it comes to the gas losses, an incongruous box sitting in the middle of a Waikato paddock is painting some remarkable and till now unseen images of the swirling masses of air and gases a dairy farm emits. Richard Rennie spoke to scientist Louis Schipper.

QUANTUM cascade laser sounds like something from Dr Who and like his police box popping up in odd places, one has appeared in a Waikato paddock. It’s got Waikato University biogeochemistry Professor Louis Schipper excited. He is co-lead in the New Zealand Agricultural Greenhouse Gas Research Centre’s research programme into nitrous oxide. His latest piece of kit is the quantum cascade laser, a quarter of a million dollars investment that is painting a “big picture” view of the level of nitrous oxide losses on a dairy farm. It was bought by the university and the research is funded by the centre. The laser works on the principal that every molecule absorbs light at a very precise frequency. It emits light in the mid to far infrared radiation end of the electromagnetic spectrum. The high energy output and ability to be fine-tuned to specific frequencies make the laser ideal for quantifying specific gases and pollutants in the atmosphere. Having been commercialised only within the last decade or so, its uses are still unfolding and include breath testing humans. The machine can detect nitrous oxide molecules emitted from cow urine patches across a whole paddock, measuring 10 times a second down to 0.2 parts per billion – speed and precision Schipper says have been unprecedented till now. The measurements can be done over an area of six to eight hectares, making the laser ideal for farm scale research, thus allowing scientists to look at management practices. The reason for the focus on nitrous oxide is its inherent

strength as a greenhouse gas. “We are talking a gas that is 300 times more potent than carbon dioxide per molecule in terms of greenhouse gas warming ability, so a little does go a long way.” It is a gas that bedevils livestock systems, along with methane, and one that till now has been measured only using chambers about the size of the average rubbish bin lid. “They are small enclosures that fit over the soil and gas samples are taken with time to determine nitrous oxide emissions. “Unfortunately, though, these chambers can cover only a small area and, of course, with cows urinating on 5% of a paddock area, it can be a big job to capture all the spatial variability.”

The problems are there but so are the solutions. However, he is also quick to defend the chamber method because it is invaluable for comparing different methods of reducing nitrous oxide emissions. Schipper says the laser has come to be the hub for a team of experienced researchers from multiple disciplines including Associate Professor Dave Campbell and Dr Liyin Liang, covering farm systems, soil science and greenhouse gas research. Recently, they have been joined by Anne Wecking who will do her doctorate using the laser. The researchers include experts in eddy covariance, a micro-meteorological technique that can record and analyse the fluctuations in air currents and movement in the emission area. Coupled with the nitrous oxide concentrations measured by the

laser, researchers now have a very clear helicopter view of the losses in a paddock, something Schipper likens to looking at an impressionist painting. “If you zoom in on a single brush stroke you don’t get much of an idea of what is going on but the laser allows us to step back and get a far bigger picture.” With the machine running since last November, Schipper and his colleagues have been harvesting data that has left them both excited and challenged by what they are finding. “What we have found really interesting is when cows go into a paddock and deposit lots of urine and dung patches there is only a small blip in nitrous oxide emissions. “It is only the first rain after that when nitrous oxide emissions go berserk on the dry soil. “Just a few millimetres of rain on the very top 1-2cm of the soil surface is enough to accelerate nitrous oxide emissions.” Researchers have also discovered a pattern of nitrous oxide losses with peaks and troughs in gas emissions depending on the time of day. “This is an area we have just recognised and really want to do some more work on. “So, we have already learned that the losses are dependent on time, temperature and moisture. “We have got rid of a lot of the noise you can get in research and can measure the full mix of different aged urine patches. They all light up differently under the laser.” Schipper is excited by the prospect of using the machine to test mitigation techniques on a farm-scale level, being able to observe and include allowances for farm system changes like stocking rates. One of the first trials will be

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WORKING ON IT: Dr Liyin Liang and Anne Wecking are part of the team working on the quantum cascade laser.

to observe how well plantain in a pasture sward might reduce nitrous oxide emissions. The work leaves Schipper feeling very optimistic about the industry’s ability to mitigate nitrous oxide losses. “In my classes I always try to

end as much as I can on a positive success story. “One of them is how the world reduced the ozone hole by reducing chlorofluorocarbon use. It required commitment but it is being done – the problems are there but so are the solutions.”

Opinion

32 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

EDITORIAL Building walls is way to go

Bryan Gibson

LETTERS

What about noble motivation? DOES Theo Sprierings’ $8 million sound quite right to you? Is our co-operative respecting 21st century parameters on little Spaceship Earth? It’s now widely understood that financial incentive makes no positive difference to performance beyond a most basic level. One might hope that truly respectable, responsible and enlightened leaders of global standard would have slightly more noble motivations. Fonterra’s website claiming “Caring for animals, community and land” sounds a bit rich. Equally, “Doing all we can” has a whiff of something disingenuous about it. Fat-cat salaries are quite frankly offensive in New Zealand, particularly when visibly on the creaking back of human, animal and

environmental exploitation. High on the world’s long list of social, health and environmental catastrophes, we must take a long hard look at our leader’s continued ways of doing business. The resource-based economy we propose offers some viable alternatives with far superior outcomes. For those brave enough to look. To be “worth” $8m mate, all the new operating parameters, climate, resources, inequality, health, stress and technological unemployment had better be respected. Our lives depend upon it. Richard Osmaston Money Free Party NZ Nelson

What benefit? TADHG Kelly’s Balanced Viewpoint” (NZFW October 9) contains not one benefit from 1080 use and explains very

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points up the rat explosion that occurs after all aerial 1080 operations. Benfield has studied the effects of 1080 for decades and knows very well what he is talking about. Are you going to believe unsupported, sweeping statements from Kelly or the scientifically proven facts as given to us by Benfield? This one single, scientifically established fact that 1080 drops are followed by a rat plague makes a nonsense of any beneficial claims for 1080 use. Kelly states that Benfield fails to address the positive impact of 1080 on the environment. This can only be because Benfield has yet to come across any benefit from 1080 in the wild. John Veysey Coromandel

Letterof theWeek

EDITOR Bryan Gibson bryan.gibson@nzx.com

clearly why aerial 1080 is not working. He calls it the “multiple species approach to pest control”. It poisons all the species it comes into contact with thus 1080, like most rat poisons, is a “multi-species poison”. This kind of broad-based poisoning has never been a good idea for the environment but multi-species poisoning has always been part of the aerial 1080 strategy, always. Kelly gives the impression the scientists are only just realising 1080 is poisoning everything. The scientists have always known. Instead of “controlling” rats as Kelly believes, an aerial spread of 1080 ensures an explosion of the rodent. In his letter Bill Benfield pointed out one scientific report, done by the government scientists Sweetapple and Nugent, which

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ENCES and walls have been in the news this past week and no, I’m not talking about Donald Trump. You see, it’s not the fine citizens of Mexico these fences and walls are designed to keep out but nitrates – out of our streams and waterways. Farmers have been fencing off waterways with poles and wire or riparian plantings for years now. It’s the first response out of the mouth of almost anyone in agriculture when confronted with the question of what they are doing to improve environmental degradation. Now this fencing works for the waterways that flow between the barriers but new research shows there are many more, smaller waterways that will never be fenced but that contribute greatly to the nutrient load. It is the waterways that are smaller than a step and shallower than a Red Band that are the issue here. Waterways on sheep and beef properties that don’t have to be fenced are also a problem, the scientists say. Now, as I said, fencing works where it is done but there’s no way farmers can make every single trickle of water a palm-adorned oasis. We’ll need to think of other ways to mitigate. Losing less nitrogen in the first place, as the scientists suggest, seems the logical place to start. And just as fencing is not the silver bullet for nitrogen loss, so it’s not the only answer to the question of how farmers are fronting their environmental issues. We need to talk about the other things – whether it be stocking rates or improved genetics or better land-use choices. Or, we could build another type of wall as Environment Canterbury is doing. This one is underground and filters out the nitrates as they pass. It sounds a bit science fiction but then new ideas often do. And, if it works for that region with that soil type, great stuff, it’ll be another tool in the box and a talking point as we discuss the many and varied ways farmers are making a difference.

Opinion

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Farmers teach skill on the job Sue Edmonds

O BE a successful dairy farmer these days requires many skills. It’s a lot more than managing some acres and animals and today can involve milking not just cows but goats and now sheep. Today’s farmers need to be up with the play with the everincreasing technology available, to have business and employer skills, knowledge of environmental and soil and water issues as well as the growing body of animal health and welfare regulations, be able to cope with the computer and paperwork involved in all the aspects and still have energy to love their family and animals. So, it was with real interest that I recently attended the launch of a new training scheme to be known as Federated Farmers Apprenticeship Dairy. The concept has been put together by Federated Farmers and Primary ITO supported by DairyNZ Resources, with the aim of providing a pathway for motivated dairy farm workers to move rapidly through the industry supported by a dedicated, approved training programme.

The

Pulpit

In the 30 years since I had the role of national secretary of the Federated Farmers Farm Cadet Scheme, many things have changed and become much more complex. And yet some of the difficulties experienced by both farmers and cadets then might still pose problems for some individuals today. However, the material handed out at the launch demonstrated that those creating the scheme

HI TECH: Some skills can be learned even before apprentices leave school now as Dairy Exporter editor Jackie Harrigan shows with Feilding High School’s robot milker.

had obviously tried to ensure the shortcomings of the old scheme would be overcome by what was required of both the farmer employers and the apprentices. The apprenticeships would be available to not just young people and school leavers. For those with motivation, who decided on a complete change of direction and career somewhat later in life, this could be a wonderful chance to acquire the numerous skills needed to do the job well in all its aspects. And it won’t be just the apprentices who are required to learn all this, the farmer employers will have to show they are up to the job of doing the training and managing their people, which will involve them in a variety of courses, workshops, online tools, discussion groups and events and action plans and self-assessment. After a 90-day trial period the apprenticeships will offer a threeyear employment contract so both parties will require stamina and stickability. There has been a lot in the media in recent years about the ever-growing requirements of employing staff and the difficulties that some older farmers have had in coping with the complexities of record keeping. We’ve come a long way since some cadets found that they got only one whole day off a month. Now it’s a matter of employment contracts, time and wage records, minimum wage requirements, health and safety management systems, holiday and leave records and payments for them. For the apprentices there are probably many improvements on the old cadet scheme. These days they don’t have to live with the boss’s family and might well have their own transport. Better hours should mean that they don’t have to be entirely parted from their old mates and/or family and the scheme envisages getting them involved with rural discussion groups and Young Farmer groups. There are many more young

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AWARE: Those creating the new dairy farm apprenticeships have tried to overcome the shortcomings of the old Farm Cadet Scheme, former scheme secretary Sue Edmonds says.

people of both sexes potentially available to enjoy an outdoor life working with animals and having real career prospects and improved milking parlours mean that life is more than putting on cups and watching cow bums for too many daylight hours. The potential pitfalls of the new scheme are that schoolteachers are still prone to guiding their less academic pupils into farming and, despite efforts, the brighter of today’s youth still fail to see that farming as a career has real potential. But with much more clued-up farmer trainers, they have to be members of Feds, and a more stringently guided scheme there is now real potential for us to get our own Kiwis into farming rather than importing labour to work

For the apprentices there are probably many improvements on the old cadet scheme.

for what are rapidly ageing dairy farm owners, with no long-term potential for the industry. I hope it all works.

Your View Got a view on some aspect of farming you would like to get across? The Pulpit offers readers the chance to have their say. nzfarmersweekly@nzx.com Phone 06 323 1519

Opinion

34 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Fonterra decides to ignore farmers Alternative View

Alan Emerson

I WAS annoyed as a Farmlands shareholder to get a voting package complete with a detailed analysis of the candidates by an organisation I’d never heard of called Propero Consulting. For a start I believe I’m able to make an assessment of the candidates without all the bluff and bluster provided in the brochure as, in my opinion, that’s what it was, bluff and bluster. I don’t know what Farmlands paid Propero but my advice for the future would be to save your money. Shareholders aren’t thick and are fully capable of making their own decisions without the help of company-appointed “experts”. That paled into some insignificance with Fonterra saying sitting board member Leonie Guiney was unsuitable as a candidate and couldn’t be reelected. It wasn’t the farmer shareholders who made the decision, it was the board. Why Guiney was eliminated heaven knows. That the Fonterra

board didn’t give the shareholders a vote says a lot. I don’t know Guiney and I’ve never even met her but her intellect, commitment and integrity suggested to me she would be a perfect member for any board. With her success as a dairy farmer and commitment to the industry I’d have thought Fonterra would be bending over backward to get her involved. Consider her background. She was a Dairy Board consulting officer and farm adviser for an Irish dairy co-operative where she ran workshops on strategic planning and investment. On her return to New Zealand she did a similar job with the BNZ.

Fonterra eliminating a young, able, energetic woman in favour of three blokes isn’t smart politically either but Fonterra probably doesn’t give a fig.

She and her husband started as sharemilkers in South Canterbury in 2002, winning Canterbury sharemilker of the year in 2006. She was a university lecturer on dairying and a highly successful dairy farmer in her own right. They now own four farms. She is young, bright and

energetic, surely a valued Fonterra board member, if she didn’t rock the boat, that is. When Guiney initially ran for director in 2014 her platform was that farmer control of the co-op was sacrosanct, that Fonterra needed greater accountability and transparency and she wanted the wise use of owner capital and postinvestment reviews. She obviously took those commitments to the Fonterra board table, which was totally unacceptable to the establishment. So the board has decided she is not the person it wants. It wasn’t a decision made by dairy farmers, the owners of the co-operative, but the board itself, which is wrong. With a co-operative, the one say its farmer shareholders have is the appointment of board members. That vote should be in farmers’ hands and not consultants and other board members. If the board doesn’t endorse a candidate they’re toast. As Guiney said “I believe I was a necessary antidote to group think on the board. I was a constant reminder of who the co-operative owners are and the supply strength that comes from trusting them more. Some others on the board found that uncomfortable.” That approach deserves a medal, not a sacking. I’ve been critical of Fonterra over the years for its cone of silence, except for good news, at all costs. It doesn’t like the boat being rocked

GONE: Fonterra’s board denied shareholders a say in the future of Leonie Guiney.

and spends a fortune in public relations making sure that doesn’t happen. An example is the dog that is Beingmate. The Fonterra chairman and chief executive recently told us that they’re “not regretful about Beingmate”. That’s despite Arie Dekker, First New Zealand Capital’s head of research claiming “there was a lack of transparency about Fonterra’s 18.8% shareholding of Beingmate”. He also questioned “whether capital currently applied to gaining access to milk pools in other countries including China and Australia is delivering returns superior to investing in higher value dairy products from its NZ production base”.

I suspect Guiney would have asked the same questions. Thank heavens Fonterra can’t shut down First NZ Capital. I believe both Farmlands and Fonterra have done their shareholders a massive disservice. Financial columnist Brian Gaynor said “Many NZ boards have been captured by a concept called Skills Matrix, which is a grid or table that illustrates the skills and competency of individual board members. This concept is promoted by executive search firms giving them, rather than shareholders, the major influence over director selection.” Both Fonterra and Farmlands are guilty of that. So it isn’t dairy farmers running Fonterra it is, realistically, the board and consultants. Fonterra eliminating a young, able, energetic woman in favour of three blokes isn’t smart politically either but Fonterra probably doesn’t give a fig. The Fonterra board also seems to have forgotten that the NZ dairy industry became great as a result of the efforts, drive and initiative of our dairy farmers and not bureaucrats, accountants and consultants. It is a fact they’ve obviously chosen to ignore.

Your View Alan Emerson is a semi-retired Wairarapa farmer and businessman: dath-emerson@wizbiz.net.nz

Rural advisers take lead on climate change Guest Columnist

Kara Lok

WITH hundreds of rural professionals flooding to our greenhouse gas workshops over the past month it’s clear there is no urban/rural divide when it comes to the understanding that New Zealand needs to reduce its environmental footprint. Dairy makes up just under half of the agricultural emissions in

NZ, which means the dairy sector is responsible for about a quarter of the total greenhouse gas emissions. While our sector is one of the most emissions-efficient producers in the world, we know we have a part to play in meeting NZ’s climate change targets. Our greenhouse gas workshops were run as part of the Dairy Action for Climate Change, which was launched in June and provides an 18-month plan to bring the sector together to address onfarm dairy greenhouse gas emissions. The main aim is to ensure all dairy farmers are aware of what emission reduction actions they can take right now. I travelled the country, starting

in Northland and ending in Invercargill, to address some 420 farm advisers and other rural professionals. These people attended voluntarily to hear about the science of climate change, mitigation options available to farmers and how they can help their farmer clients reduce their emissions. Addressing onfarm emissions – methane, which is formed when ruminant animals burp, and nitrous oxide, formed when nitrogen escapes into the atmosphere – is one of the most challenging issues facing the dairy and food producing sectors, globally and in NZ. Many farmers are already doing things onfarm to lower greenhouse gas emissions, such

as planting trees and better soil management to reduce nitrogen leaching. There are also other sciencebased endeavours well under way, like the research to breed cows that produce lower methane emissions and the possibility of a methane-inhibiting vaccine in the future. Participants came away from the workshops knowing that while there is no silver bullet there is a whole suite of options they can adopt right now. Rural professionals can make a difference by providing leadership to ensure this knowledge transfers to the farming community. DairyNZ will be running a climate change workshop for farmers in early 2018 but

you can trust www.fegold.co.nz

in the meantime I hope rural professionals will take the lead and get the message out to farmers about what emissions reduction options they can implement right now. Climate change is too complicated for each sector to attempt to address on its own. Strong government direction is necessary to get all sectors working together through an economy-wide plan to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions. While our Dairy Action for Climate Change plan is under way, we look forward to working with the future NZ Government to continue addressing our biological emissions. • Kara Lok is a senior policy adviser at DairyNZ

Opinion

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Grassroots farming opportunities From the Ridge

Steve Wyn-Harris

I ATTENDED an interesting field day last week on Pete Swinburn and Suzanne Hoyt’s property in the neighbouring district of Flemington. The farm is one of three Beef + Lamb New Zealand innovation farms on the east coast of the North Island. The innovation farm programme is aimed at farmers who want to help identify tools and practices that will result in real financial improvements. This particular project had identified the very low content of legumes in dryland hill country, often only 5%, and is designed to look at ways to significantly improve it. If that can be done then, obviously, the quality of the

pastures on offer to livestock will improve, resulting in increased animal performance through gains in ewe and lamb live weights. Pete and Suzanne had tried a couple of techniques but the one that caught the eye was the arrowleaf annual clover established on a very steep, dry, westerly face. We perched on this slope with the clover over our gumboots. It was most impressive but hadn’t been an easy task. The block started with mostly

That totalled eight tonnes of DM grown from mid-April to midOctober on a land class that struggles to grow four tonnes all year.

browntop, probably growing only three to four tonnes/ha of DM and with very little clover. The first autumn attempt at establishment of this trial had

failed because of the very dry autumn so they flew on rape the following spring then had another go this past autumn. One of our wettest autumns on record gave a far better result. Glyphosate was sprayed to take out the resident species including the rape remnants and four days later in mid-April the arrowleaf was flown on together with slug bait and fertiliser. A couple of days with stock treading the seed into the ground and a subsequent seedling count showed 130 plants a square metre. By the end of July there was 2000kg DM or a very respectable growth rate of 19kg DM/ha/day. A couple of light grazings and the next cut showed a massive 78kg DM/ha/day grown for August and half of September. At last, ewes and lambs were set stocked but with the final cut showing 99kg DM/ha/day for the month before we saw it, they weren’t going to make a great dent in the feed bank. That totalled eight tonnes of DM grown from mid-April to mid-October on a land class that struggles to grow four tonnes all

ATTENTIVE: The results achieved by Pete Swinburn and Suzanne Hoyt at Flemington impressed east coast farmers.

year – a graphic example that we have opportunities out there for what has been relatively unproductive farmland that we haven’t yet considered, let alone tried. However, the difficult management for this stand is still to come. Because it is an annual it needs to be allowed to set seed. It is a vigorous seeder with up to 1000kg seed/ha but because it flowers at the end of its stem, if you graze it in mid spring you can prevent it from seeding at all and it becomes a one-crop wonder. But if you don’t graze it to allow it to set seed in its establishment year, you end up with a large amount of trash to be cleaned up.

The hard seed will keep germinating for the next 6-8 years though so the trick is getting it right in that first season. It will be interesting to see how Pete and Suzanne get on. There are plenty of other projects like this one around the country being funded by B+LNZ. Some will work and others will not. But we need to keep thinking laterally. We have tremendous opportunities out there; the thing is to seize them.

Your View Steve Wyn-Harris is a Central Hawke’s Bay sheep and beef farmer. swyn@xtra.co.nz

Overseas land ownership not just a Kiwi concern Meaty Matters

Allan Barber

ON A recent trip to Australia I read an article about overseas land holdings on that side of the Tasman that illustrates the dramatic growth in Chinese investment in Australian agricultural land. In contrast to the rather sketchy and out of date statistics available in New Zealand, the Foreign Ownership of Agricultural Land Register provides very

specific figures at June 30. Foreign investors now own 13.6% of Australian agricultural land, up from 11% three years ago, with British investment at 33% still the largest source of foreign capital though that percentage has fallen sharply from 52% 12 months earlier. The figures show Chinese entities now own, either partially or outright, close to 4% of the total farming area or 29% of foreign held land, having increased their holdings from 1.4 million hectares to 14.4m in the year. That change has largely occurred through sales by British to Chinese ownership rather than a substantial increase in the actual amount of land owned by foreign investors. Other major foreign owners

include investors from the Netherlands, Canada, Switzerland and Singapore who increased their purchases and the United States, which was the only large investor group appearing to be losing enthusiasm for Australian farming land. Tasmania is the state with the largest proportion of foreign ownership at 24%, following the purchase of Van Diemen’s Land dairy farms for A$280 million in 2016 by Chinese billionaire owned Moon Lake Investments. A Scandinavian/British enterprise, Ingleby Farms, has also invested in dairy farms in Tasmania. Northern Territory and Western Australia also have substantial levels of foreign investment in agricultural land, with Chinese interests buying up

Breeding commercially relevant sheep

cattle stations in the Kimberley. The general attitude to foreign agricultural investment in Australia seems to be less paranoid than in NZ though the federal government tightened the rules for approval and introduced a foreign land register in 2015. However, NZ’s existing Overseas Investment Office approval requirements impose a similar level of scrutiny with major transactions being referred to the relevant minister. That could all change after our election result and the composition of the next government, which, either way, will involve NZ First and its determination to prevent the sale of agricultural land to overseas investors. A Labour/Greens/

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NZ First coalition will definitely impose tight restrictions on overseas ownership. Statistics for overseas investment in NZ are much harder to track though in 2011 the total was stated to be 8.7% or 1.3m hectares. However, estimates vary widely up to as much as 20% though sales of forestry land far outweigh agricultural and horticultural land sales. What is certain is overseas investment in our agricultural sector is about to become a lot more difficult.

Your View Allan Barber is a meat industry commentator: allan@barberstrategic. co.nz, http://allanbarber.wordpress. com

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Opinion

36 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

The rural-urban gap is shrinking Town Talk

Amy Williams

AS WE waited for a political coalition to determine who would lead us for the next three years I got thinking about farmers and how hard done they must be feeling about now. Farmers have been copping it from all sides. Wherever you sit on this, first dairy farmers were blamed for the poor quality of rural waterways then all farmers were facing the likelihood of being asked to pay for the water they use for irrigation though it affects mainly South Island farmers who rely heavily on irrigation. The election campaign played up the so-called urban/rural divide, pointing the finger at farmers and creating an us-andthem mentality among some groups of farmers. Federated Farmers had a seemingly knee-jerk reaction to Labour’s proposed water tax, claiming a 10 cents a litre water tax would bankrupt farmers. Prime Minister Bill English told farmers in the heart of irrigation country, Ashburton, that Labour wanted to suck cash out farming

towns. Little wonder farmers felt targeted. It was no surprise when, a few days later, farmers protested against the Opposition’s proposed water tax in Morrinsville, the hometown of Labour leader Jacinda Ardern. That farmers were being manipulated is obvious. The likelihood of any political party charging 10 cents a litre for water is far-fetched. The number crunchers point to the figure more likely sitting around one cent for 1000 litres and having a minor impact on farming businesses. But that wasn’t all farmers had to contend with. Around the same time a global animal rights campaign by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) urged people not to buy wool, accusing the wool industry of animal cruelty during shearing. Wait. What? I’ve seen sheep being shorn and it’s not exactly sheep whispering but the animals appeared to be laissez-faire about the whole experience. PETA’s campaign featured a photo of an American actress in the buff with the caption “I’d rather go naked than wear wool”, to which Federated Farmers’ response was, among other points, that it’s crueller for sheep to carry around an extra 5kg of wool on their backs in the heat of summer. Despite the rational argument, it’s wise not to underestimate the

SHIFTING: The South Island moved a little towards Jacinda Ardern while the North Island moved slightly to the right.

momentum of the animal welfare movement. Given the price farmers have been getting for their wool on the international market has fallen recently, PETA’s campaign was bad timing for wool producers. So, despite a few eye-roll moments during the election campaign, I felt for rural New Zealand. Now the election is behind us, where to from here? As I write this I’m sipping a milky coffee, the meat for tonight’s dinner is defrosting on the kitchen bench and I’m wearing a woollen jumper. Just saying – I’m your customer. And like many other young family women and professionals, I’m interested in how my choices affect the environment, animal welfare and general sustainability.

I’ll change what I buy to leave less of a footprint. I’d like the country’s water resource to be used sustainably and having commercial users including farmers pay one cent for 1000 litres seems reasonable. I’d also like to see rural waterways cleaned up and swimmable. To me these are national issues just like the housing crisis and child poverty. Neither is just a city or rural issue, they affect us all. During the election campaign farmers didn’t fare so well. They were targeted, yes, but they also appeared to revel in the attention rather than countering it with facts and reason. Still, the election results speak for themselves. Given the outcry against Labour

it’d be reasonable to think rural NZ might have been mobilised to vote for the status quo. But the official results of the general election show the electorates that swung the most towards Labour were in regional NZ – including three electorates in Canterbury that use a lot of the country’s water for irrigation. Meanwhile, National held firm in Auckland where voters swung to the right. Overall, we’ve all moved slightly towards each other – the traditionally conservative South Island has moved to the left and the North Island has moved slightly to the right. And I don’t think it’s due to a bunch of Aucklanders moving south to buy a home they can afford. The urban/rural divide is shrinking.

Events etched in the collective memory From the Lip

Jamie Mackay

I’M OLD! I write this column as a 57-yearold. By the time you read it I will be 58 years of age. So for the first time in my life I will be older than the average sheep and beef farmer in this country. Time and tide wait for no man. It is yet another ageing milestone I can reluctantly tick off. The first I can remember is the first All Blacks fullback (my position) to be younger than me. That distinction belonged to a Taranaki cow cocky by the name of Kieran Crowley. Then there was the first prime minister to be younger than me. That was John Key. All of which got me thinking about the timeline of my life and the major events, both domestically and internationally, that have struck a chord with me and been ingrained in the collective memories of my generation.

MILESTONE: The fall of the Berlin Wall was one of the momentous events of a generation.

September 5, 1959: Southland wins the Ranfurly Shield, 38 days before I’m born. September 23, 1959: Southland loses the Ranfurly Shield, 20 days before I’m born. October 13, 1959: A plump and plain baby is born at Gore hospital, following in the more famous 1950s footsteps of the likes of Jenny Shipley and Stu Wilson. November 26, 1960: Keith Holyoake wins the general

election and embarks on our last four-term government –unless, of course, Bill English can convince a former MP from Northland and Tauranga otherwise. October 15, 1962: The world teeters on the edge of World War III for 13 days with the Cuban Missile Crisis. November 22, 1963: John F Kennedy is assassinated. April 10, 1968: The inter-island ferry Wahine sinks in Wellington Harbour with the loss of 51 lives.

July 20, 1969: Man walks on the Moon. August 14, 1971: The great Colin Meads plays his record 55th and final test for the All Blacks. January 1, 1973: Kiwi farmers face the trade shock of Britain joining the EEC, followed later that year by the first Oil Shock, which triggers spiralling inflation and unemployment. August 16, 1977: Elvis Presley leaves the building. July 30, 1979: The second Oil Shock sees Carless Days introduced. The scheme was highly unpopular, largely ineffective and was scrapped in May 1980. November 28, 1979: The Mount Erebus disaster in Antarctica results in the loss of 257 lives. July 14, 1984: David Lange leads Labour to a landslide election victory. Rob Muldoon refuses to go gracefully. Rogernomics spells the end of farming subsidies. June 20, 1987: The All Blacks claim the inaugural Rugby World Cup. October 19, 1987: World share markets tumble on Black Monday. On October 20, New Zealand has Terrible Tuesday. November 9, 1989: The fall of the Berlin Wall. December 26, 1991: The Iron Curtain falls with dissolution of the Soviet Union.

August 31, 1997: Princess Di dies. September 11, 2001: The world changes forever as the Twin Towers fall in New York and the Pentagon is smashed in Washington. Hollywood couldn’t have dreamt up this script. September 29, 2008: The Dow Jones has its largest drop in any single day in history. The Global Financial Crisis is in full swing. November 19, 2010: The Pike River disaster takes 29 brave miners. October 23, 2009: After waiting an entire lifetime, Southlands wins the Ranfurly Shield again. February 22, 2011: The Christchurch earthquake claims 185 lives. November 8, 2016: Donald Trump is elected the 45th POTUS. Hollywood couldn’t have dreamt up this script. October 13, 2017: A 58-yearold celebrates a birthday and wonders whether a 72-year-old has made up his mind about who will be New Zealand’s 40th prime minister and whether it will indeed be a Black Friday?

Your View Jamie Mackay is the host of The Country that airs on Newstalk ZB and Radio Sport, 12-1pm, weekdays. jamie@thecountry.co.nz

World

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Subsidies stifled farm gains in NZ BRITISH farmers must seize the opportunity of Brexit to ramp up productivity and become more competitive, former New Zealand agriculture minister Sir Lockwood Smith told industry leaders there. He suggested his country had wasted more than a decade failing to adjust to the loss of its key export market when the United Kingdom joined the European Economic Community in 1973. It wasn’t until the NZ government abolished farm subsidies in 1985 that farmers finally upped their game and embraced the technology needed to become more efficient and productive, he told a Westminster Forum meeting in London. The forum brought together policymakers, politicians and industry leaders to discuss ways of supporting UK agriculture and driving innovation in the food sector. Smith said he wasn’t recommending “for one moment” that the UK should abolish subsidies overnight. But he said the UK could learn from NZ’s experience. Subsidies distorted market signals and stifled innovation. “I am not going to tell you what to do because there is no way I should but I want to share with you a couple of my experiences,” Smith, who also served for four years as NZ’s High Commissioner to the UK until retiring earlier this year, said. Acknowledging many British farmers feared tariffs as high as 40% on exports of livestock products if the UK left the European Union customs union, Smith said Kiwi farmers had faced a similar situation but with much higher tariffs. “We thought we had to subsidise our farmers because we

couldn’t expand our business to the UK or Europe once you joined the EEC because of tariffs up to 300%,” he said. But those subsidies protected farmers from the market with the result there was little incentive to innovate. From the years between 1973 and 1985, when NZ agriculture became heavily subsidised, market signals became progressively distorted and so did any link between scientific development and economic gain. As a result, productivity increases during that period were almost nil. Only in 1985, when subsidies were abolished, did price signals begin to flow properly again – encouraging farm businesses to respond to supply and demand. The result since had been a tremendous increase in output, he said. From 1993 to 2016, productivity in the NZ dairy industry, measured in terms of kilograms of milksolids per hectare, had increased 62%. Much of that was because of improvements in the genetic value of dairy cattle. But it was also down to better pasture management. NZ’s sheep industry, the most heavily subsidised sector, had seen a similar increase in productivity. Without subsidies sheep numbers halved but they were being farmed more efficiently and productively. There were 70 million sheep in NZ during the days of subsidies. Today there were fewer than 30m yet the amount of sheep meat being exported had remained remarkably level – equivalent to an increase in productivity of 161%. “In terms of productivity, which

NOT BAD: Subsidies and protectionism aren’t always bad and countries and use them to grow, Irish Agriculture and Food Development Authority director Professor Gerry Boyle says.

NOT GOOD: Subsidies protected New Zealand farmers from the market and gave them little incentive to innovate, Sir Lockwood Smith has told industry leaders in Britain.

is one of the issues you’re looking at, it is that simple. “If you want to improve productivity in agriculture in this country you have to deal with the subsidies and protectionism.” Tearing down barriers was also important when it came to food security, he said. There was no way the UK would be self-sufficient in food post Brexit, which meant two-way access to imports and overseas markets would be vital to feed the nation. Open markets should be welcomed, not feared, Smith said. He agreed with the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs that sourcing food from a diverse range of stable regions around the world as well as domestically enhanced food security rather than diminished it.

“That message is absolutely correct today too,” he said. “There is no question about that.” British farmers who thought they would be swamped by NZ or Australian food exports once the UK left the EU were mistaken. “Less than 1% of the food consumed in the UK comes from NZ or Australia,” he said. “You can pour all the money you like into research and technological change but over time you’ve also got to get rid of the barriers to the economic signals coming through to farmers so they can respond to the marketplace.” But Ireland’s Agriculture and Food Development Authority director Professor Gerry Boyle said Brexit was potentially devastating for Irish farmers if the UK left the EU customs union. He agreed with Smith on some points in his presentation but not on others. Research was fundamentally important when it came to raising agricultural productivity but subsidies and protectionism weren’t always bad. “Countries can grow within a subsidy regime because it does depend how subsidies are designed,” Boyle told the forum. “Probably the biggest obstacle to innovation in Europe, in the dairy sector certainly, has been milk quota. “Happily that has been abandoned.” Following the end of the quota system Ireland planned to grow milk production by 35% by 2020. “That is happening right now on our farms and it is happening despite, you might argue, the existence of subsidies.” That said, no matter how

difficult Brexit would be for the UK, policymakers should also spare a thought for Ireland. “The consensus in Ireland would be that we are more likely to be far more severely affected if the worst-case scenario emerges than UK farmers will be.” Boyle said he had just been at Ireland’s National Ploughing Championships, which had attracted almost 300,000 visitors to Tullamore, County Offaly, and Brexit was the main topic of conversation. “Innovation is the silver lining in the Brexit cloud. “We are all forced to look more closely again at the importance of innovation in terms of driving productivity. “As far as I’m concerned, productivity and competitiveness in the long run are one and the same thing. “There would be a potentially devastating impact on the Irish food sector if the worst possible case, the so-called hard Brexit, were to materialise, simply because of the dominance of UK trade in our exports.” Ireland, like NZ, was an exportbased economy. Last year Ireland exported £12 billion of goods – 37% of which were destined for the UK, including almost half of all Irish beef exports by volume and 67% of Irish cheddar exports. “We have concluded that the impact on our dairy and beef sector, on our farms on the ground would be devastating – of the order of a 40% reduction in income. “And that’s a permanent reduction if the worst-case scenario were to materialise,” Boyle said. UK Farmers Weekly

Brexit a threat to Britain’s food security as global rating slips GLOBAL food security is slipping, an analysis of the affordability, availability, quality and safety of food supplies across 113 countries says. The Economic Intelligence Unit (EIU) has published its annual Global Food Security Index (GFSI) that showed a fall in global food security over the past year, after four years of consecutive gains. In general, while the quality and safety of the food produced had improved, affordability and access to food had declined in many countries. Factors included migration,

which was occurring at a rate many countries’ economies and infrastructure were struggling to deal with, rapid urbanisation, drought in subSaharan Africa and political instability. The report named Ireland as the country with the best food security score, knocking the United States off the top spot. Ireland had rebounded strongly from the Irish banking crisis of 2008-10, helped by consistently high levels of public sector investment in agriculture, it said. The United Kingdom secured

the number three spot in the food security league table. However, when looking at quality and safety the United Kingdom was ranked at only number 21 with Portugal taking the top spot in that category. But he report warned the UK’s rise, since 2012, to the number three spot on the food security league table was at risk because of Brexit. The EIU forecast personal incomes in the UK to fall 6% throughout 2018 and the UK would be leaving the EU at a time when it relied on imported food

more than at any time in the last 50 years. “Once Britain leaves the EU, it will have to do without billions of pounds in subsidies under the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy, direct access to European markets and unrestricted access to cheap agricultural labourers from Europe,” it said. The report also said climate change and natural resource depletion could pose an even greater risk to food security over the longer term. Rising temperatures could destroy crop yield gains made over the past century, with the

threat of damaging weather events – torrential rain, flooding or drought and insect pests becoming more prevalent. If the food security index adjusted to take into account climate change, natural resources and resilience then the UK fell from third place to joint fifth behind Ireland, Austria, France and the US. “Facing up to these risks will require significant collaborative efforts by governments, the private sector, non-profit organisations and other stakeholders.” UK Farmers Weekly

World

38 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

Brexit could slash farm incomes BRITISH farmers are being urged to take action now to prepare their businesses for Brexit or risk seeing their profits whittled away in the face of falling subsidies and increased overseas competition. A new report, Brexit Scenarios – An Impact Assessment, from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board suggested average farm profitability could drop from £38,000 to £15,000 a year in the worst case scenario as a result of Brexit. The report specifically named New Zealand as a country that could threaten British farmers by sending low-priced foods there. But, even though farm incomes generally were forecast to come under pressure, different sectors would be affected to differing extents while the top 25% of businesses would remain viable, regardless of scenario. “This analysis underlines the fact that performance matters,” board market intelligence director Phil Bicknell said. “As individual farms we know that we can’t determine policy but we can recognise that performance is key to preparing for the challenges ahead.” Farmers are therefore advised to learn from the high-

DOING BEST: Performance matters in how farmers will cope after Brexit, Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board market intelligence director Phil Bicknell says.

performing group and use them as a benchmark for what is achievable in the way they run their farm businesses. “Do nothing and businesses that are currently profitable run the risk of heading into the red,” Bicknell said. The board’s analysis considers three possible scenarios – a business as usual approach

with current subsidies and free trade with the European Union, a liberal approach to trade with tariff-free access to the United Kingdom from both the EU and the rest of the world and reduced susidies and a cliff-edge Brexit reverting to World Trade Organisation tariffs on all trade and with dramatically reduced subsidies. The report also considers the impact of labour availability with little change under the first scenario but with reduced availability in the trade liberalisation and cliff-edge scenarios. It said under the “business as usual” scenario and assuming the UK succeeded in negotiating a free-trade deal with the EU average farm incomes could actually increase – from £38,400 to more than £41,000. That was primarily the result of increased trading costs – the result of the UK being outside the single European market – which would push up the price of imported food and so allow UK farmgate prices to rise. But average farm incomes were predicted to fall to just £15,400 with trade liberalisation as lower-priced imports were sucked in from places such as NZ and Brazil.

Similarly, incomes were expected to drop under the cliffedge scenario – to £20,160 on average. Even though tariffs might allow some prices to rise, the dramatic drop in farm support, put at 75% in this scenario, would outweigh the benefits. The report suggested farm sectors most dependent on subsidies and exports would be most vulnerable – with cereals and lowland beef and sheep singled out. But some sectors, like dairy and pigs, could actually benefit from rising prices in some scenarios – reflecting their lower dependence on subsidies and higher prices of imports. The National Farmers Union, which this week started a roadshow with the board to explain the research to farmers, said the findings should not be seen as predictions. The NFU’s EU exit adviser Lucia Zitti said “We welcome this piece of work as it provides further evidence with regards to the impacts of Brexit on the agriculture sector and the potentially devastating effect that some of our farming sectors could face, depending on government policy decisions.” UK Farmers Weekly

Farmers like public cash FARMERS are addicted to public money, Dieter Helm, a senior adviser to Britain’s Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Secretary Michael Gove, says. He called for a review of the subsidies and tax breaks given to farmers. Helm, an Oxford University economist making recommendations to the government on its 25-year environment plan, questioned whether farmers were providing value for money when exemptions from inheritance tax, business rates and diesel duty were taken into account. “If you produce 0.7% of output, receive £3 billion of subsidies for it, are exempted on rates, exempted on diesel and exempted on inheritance tax, this is quite a list and we have almost got there by accident. “It is a kind of subsidy addiction. “You have to ask is the result of this good? Is it good for the farmers? “I would say probably not. “Is it good for society, for our natural capital and for our environment?” Helm’s comments came as a new survey showed 40% of farmers believed their businesses could cope with a reduction in subsidy after 2020. UK Farmers Guardian

FARMING ON THE FRONT LINE

Watch it now

Farmer’s Voice gives typical farmers the chance to show the care they take as custodians of their animals and land.

brought to you by

Farmers Weekly columnist Craig Wiggins is at the coalface talking to those who have a real passion for the primary sector. Go to our website to watch the real face of farming.

farmersweekly.co.nz/farmers-voice

Employment

FAHS – Feilding High School

Farm Manager

Housekeeper/Handyperson

Experienced Shepherd – Hawke’s Bay

Hawke’s Bay

Due to career progression of our client’s incumbent Stock Manager, we are excited to present this Experienced Shepherd role to the market. Working alongside supportive owners who encourage personal development, you will be exposed to all aspects of a high performing farming business including FarmIQ.

Our clients’ are in search of a personable and tidy couple for live-in roles based on their property just 30 minutes northwest of Napier. The property comprises a sheep and beef farm which is leased out to a neighbouring property. Our clients have developed a small fruit orchard with a range of tree varieties and are keen to preserve the fruit. We are looking for a couple who are willing to help further enhance and take pride in the ongoing aesthetics of this beautiful property. The Housekeeper role will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the home and will average approximately 30 hours per week. The main duties will include general day-to-day household chores and cleaning, running errands and grocery shopping and meal preparation for guests when required. Experience will be preferred.

To gain the most from this role you will need to have a minimum of two years experience, have an enquiring mind and willingness to learn. A team of 4-5 dogs under good command will be required as the emphasis of this role is stock work and pasture management.

An exciting opportunity exists for a suitably skilled and qualified person to take responsibility for the overall management of the two farms and work with students on farm duty to teach them best practice farming skills.

The Handyperson role will be approximately 8-10 hours per week and will involve general maintenance tasks around the property such as chopping firewood, fencing and arborist work and companioning the owner when required. Having a practical background and capability operating various machinery, such as chainsaws, will be essential, as will a good understanding of health and safety.

This is a great opportunity for you to immerse yourself within a great farming community coupled by an excellent remuneration package and a three bedroom home with recently renovated kitchen. There is also a bus at the gate to the highly reputable Patoka Primary School and the local area offers plenty of hunting and fishing right on your doorstep! LK0089890©

For further information and an application pack please contact:

For more information, or to fill out an application, please visit www.ruraldirections.co.nz or phone the Rural Directions team in confidence on 0800 475 465 (Reference #2438). Applications close 5pm Monday 6th November 2017

Both roles will require honesty and reliability and a high standard of work and attention to detail. As the owners appreciate their personal privacy, both appointees must be respectful of this and be flexible and adaptable with their day-to-day planning and organisation. LK0089830©

Full training on the use of the DeLaval robotic milking system will be provided.

Exceptional Opportunity

This 690ha farm itself has gained an excellent reputation and is set within the highly regarded farming district of Puketitiri, one hour northwest of Hastings. Comprising 6500su, the commercial sheep and cattle operation will be the key focus; keeping replacements and finishing all additional stock.

FAHS – Feilding High School owns and operates a small dairy unit and a 80 hectare sheep and beef unit. The dairy unit has recently installed a robotic milking system. The two farms are key resources for the delivery of courses in agriculture for the school and support other learning areas as well.

Martin O’Grady Principal FAHS – Feilding High School Telephone 06 323 4029 or Email vacancy@feildinghigh.school.nz

classifieds@nzx.com – 0800 85 25 80

RECRUITMENT & HR Register to receive job alerts on www.ruraldirections.co.nz

With the role comes a tidy, warm and recently renovated, semi furnished, two bedroom home. It is designed with an open plan kitchen and lounge accessible to a large deck for indoor/outdoor living and dining. If this opportunity fits your situation, get in touch with us today! For more information, or to fill out an application, please visit www.ruraldirections.co.nz or phone the Rural Directions team in confidence on 0800 475 465 (Reference #2431). Applications close 5pm Monday 6th November 2017

HEAD SHEPHERD

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THE NEW ZEALAND FARMERS WEEKLY – October 16, 2017

TIROA E TRUST (Tiroa Station)

Please contact Wayne Fraser 07 878 4815 or email tiroa@tiroatehape.maori.nz for further information or a copy of the job application and description. Applications close Friday 20th October 2017

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Applicants for this position should have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa.

South Island Livestock Manager Location – Flexible With Carrfields Livestock now having established a strong representation across all New Zealand regions we are now seeking to appoint an experienced and proven leader within the livestock sector to join our Livestock Senior Leadership Team.

Under the Human Rights Act, 1993, it is unlawful, apart from some exceptions, for employment advertisements to restrict applicants because of their sex, marital status, religious belief, colour, race, national origins, age, family status, or sexual orientation. Advertisements that discriminate in any way will not be published.

Operations Manager Hunterville

Reporting to the General Manager of Carrfields Livestock, you will be responsible for leading the South Island Livestock business and driving our business goals and strategies. With a commitment to standards and excellence Carrfields Livestock are experiencing sustained growth and the South Island Livestock Manager will play a key role in leading our South Island Livestock business into the future.

Based just 15 minutes from the rural township of Hunterville, Otiwhiti Station has developed itself into a highly recognised Land Based Training Agricultural Cadet School, where it takes pride in sculpting future young farmers for rural New Zealand. Rural Directions is excited to offer this Operations Manager position to the market, with key tasks being livestock and the cadets. Being a crucial part of the management team, your main focus will be training and mentoring students on the practical skills of farming.

Key Responsibilities for the role:

Otiwhiti Station is a 2000ha breeding station, running 11,000 sheep, 1400 cattle that is a mix of breeding and trading, which is part of the larger business working in conjunction with three other blocks. Otiwhiti Station has set policies and excellent infrastructure in place to support and help you achieve your KPI’s.

• Developing and recruiting key livestock representatives throughout the South Island • Ensuring that clients service requirements are met • Relationship management with key strategic partners • Planning and implementation of agreed initiatives • Continue to implement and develop company health, safety and wellness initiatives

This is an exceptional opportunity for someone with high energy levels to inject your enthusiasm and expertise into a large-scale operation, where horse work and a team of 6-8 working dogs are a prerequisite. The platform is provided for you to embrace technology such as FarmIQ, utilise modern farming techniques and demonstrate your strengths in pasture and stock management.

To be successful you will need to demonstrate: • • • • •

EMPLOYMENT ADVERTISEMENTS

Established industry networks Extensive knowledge and experience within the livestock Industry Proven experience as a strategic and effective leader Excellent communication skills Able to challenge traditional industry standards and apply innovative ideas

We are looking for an applicant with strong organisational and planning skills, who has a strong knowledge of all the day-today on farm tasks such as livestock rotations, animal health, feed budgeting and general skills who is willing to impart their learnings.

Carrfields Livestock are proud to be New Zealand’s largest privately owned livestock business. If you are wanting a challenging but rewarding position with a progressive and innovative business then we look forward to your application. For further information on this position please contact: Donald Baines, General Manager Livestock on 027 328 8781. Applications close Wednesday 1st November, 2017. Please send cover letter and CV to: hradmin@carrfields.co.nz

The property boasts a huge range of recreational opportunities and provides the successful appointee with a generous remuneration package and a well-appointed 4 bedroom home within the central hub of property. There is a Primary School and Early Childhood Centre 15 minutes away with a school bus available at the gate. If you love your stock and have the aptitude to mentor and train young people then this role is for you. For more information, or to fill out an application please visit www.ruraldirections.co.nz or phone the Rural Directions team in confidence on 0800 475 465 (Reference #3202). Applications close 5pm Monday 13th November 2017

SEE PAGE 40

FOR MORE EMPLOYMENT ADVERTISING

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We have a position for a Head Shepherd to join our team. The successful applicant would require 4-5 good working dogs and have had experience with handling large numbers of stock. You will need to have excellent stockmanship, clear written and oral communication, and be able to work both independently and in a team environment including the ability to manage staff.

RECRUITMENT & HR

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Tiroa Station is a 3200ha effective property situated in Benneydale, 35 minutes from Te Kuiti and part of the Tiroa Te Hape group of farms covering 7300ha. The station winters 32,000 stock units made up of a high performing breeding ewe flock and breeding cow herd.

RECRUITMENT & HR Register to receive job alerts on www.ruraldirections.co.nz

classifieds@nzx.com – 0800 85 25 80

Employment

THE NEW ZEALAND FARMERS WEEKLY – October 16, 2017

SHEPHERD GENERAL

Hickory Bay Farm – Assistant Manager 2IC

Genetics Livestock Representative

Located 25 minutes east of Akaroa on Banks Peninsula, a 440ha rotationally grazed dairy support unit (dairy cattle only). Attributes sought: • Excellent stockmanship • Fencing, water system experience • Capable with machinery • Initiative • Problem solving skills • Flexibility

CHRISTCHURCH

PGG Wrightson is one of New Zealand’s leading nationwide providers of products and services to the rural sector. About the role: An exciting development opportunity has arisen for a Genetics Livestock Representative to join our experienced and passionate team in the Canterbury Region. You will be responsible for managing existing and new client relationships in the North and South Canterbury region and building up a strong client base. You’ll be focussed on developing the skills and expertise needed of a Livestock Genetics Rep through the support of the National Genetics Manager and local colleagues, as well as building relationships while working from the key Saleyards in the area. You’ll have a keen interest and passion for the local agricultural sector and genetics improvement, and your ability to relate well to both colleagues and clients will set you up for a long and successful career within our organisation.

Start date mid-November. For an application pack please email: kristin@hickorybay.co.nz Applications close Tuesday 31st October, 5pm

NEED

STAFF? Advertise your vacancy in Farmers Weekly Plus receive added value of online free of charge*

Call Debbie

0800 85 25 80 classifieds@nzx.com

*Available for one month or until close of application

Classifieds ANIMAL HANDLING

Duties and responsibilities:

FLY OR LICE problem? Electrodip - The magic eye sheepjetter since 1989 with unique self adjusting sides. Incredible chemical and time savings with proven effectiveness. Phone 07 573 8512 w w w. e l e c t r o d i p . c o m

• Marketing and manage all stud livestock services to existing and potential clients • Maintain and grow the client base in your area through strong business relationships • Planning and self-management of work • Regular travel within region Skills and experience: • Knowledge and experience in the industry is essential; broader Livestock industry experience is an advantage • Ability to build lasting professional relationships; sales experience is an advantage • Excellent oral and written communication skills • Computer/tablet literacy and administration skills • A full, current and clean New Zealand driver’s licence is essential

CRAIGCO SHEEP JETTERS. Sensor Jet. Deal to fly and Lice now. Guaranteed performance. Unbeatable pricing. Phone 06 835 6863. www.craigcojetters.com

We are committed to growing our employees and we develop leadership and technical expertise at all levels of our company. We provide extensive in house sales and technical training and offer a number of benefits including retail buying privileges.

BOOK AN AD. For only $2.00 + gst per word you can book a word only ad in Farmers Weekly Classifieds. Ph Debbie on 0800 85 25 80 to book in.

Apply today: applications@pggwrightson.co.nz • Email your CV and covering letter by Sunday, 22 October 2017 • If you would like to discuss this opportunity further, please contact Callum Stewart, National Genetics Manager on 027 280 2688

ANIMAL HEALTH www.drench.co.nz farmer owned, very competitive prices. Phone 0800 4 DRENCH (437 362).

Helping grow the country

ANIMAL SUPPLEMENTS

South Island Account Manager YOUR NEW CAREER STARTS HERE

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR, GARLIC & HONEY. 200L - $450 or 1000L - $2000 excl. with FREE DELIVERY from Black Type Minerals Ltd www.blacktypeminerals. co.nz

ATTENTION FARMERS

DOGS WANTED

DEMOLITION. Country Villas, houses, buildings, commercial, industrial. Any area. NZ. Please phone 027 405 2391.

HARD HEAD and Hunt dog required for bulls. Must have stop command. Phone 09 232 7845. 12 MONTHS TO 5½-yearold Heading dogs and Huntaways wanted. Phone 022 698 8195.

www.gibb-gro.co.nz GROWTH PROMOTANT $5.85 per hectare + GST delivered Brian Mace 0274 389 822 07 571 0336 brianmace@xtra.co.nz

NO ONE BUYS OR pays more! Quick sale! 07 315 5553. Mike Hughes.

FARM MAPPING

CONTRACTORS GORSE SPRAYING SCRUB CUTTING. 30 years experience. Blowers, gun and hose. No job too big. Camp out teams. Travel anywhere if job big enough. Phone Dave 06 375 8032.

DOGS FOR SALE

YOUR FARM MAPPED showing paddock sizes. Priced from $600 for 100ha. Phone 0800 433 855. farmmapping.co.nz

FARM WANTED ECONOMICAL BEEF unit in Kaipara area. Prefer chemical free, will look at all options. Please leave a message on 07 543 1491.

FERTILISER

$1000 EACH! Thirty Heading, Huntaway and Handys. 07 315 5553. Mike Hughes. BRIAN BURKE, NZ Champ 1984 and 5 times NZ Champ finalist, available to train your working dog. In three weeks he will transform your heading dog into a productive asset for the farm. Contact Brian 06 343 9561 for further details and pricing (heading dogs only).

CLASSIFIEDS REACH EVERY FARMER IN NZ FROM MONDAY

DOLOMITE, NZ’s finest Magnesium fertiliser. Bio-Gro certified, bulk or bagged. 0800 436 566.

FOR SALE WINDMILLS for water pumping. Ferguson Windmills Company. www.windmills.co.nz sales@windmills.co.nz Phone 09 412 8655 or 027 282 7689.

FOR SALE DOG/PET FOOD. Lamb/ Beef and chicken products. All natural - raw - no preservatives or additives. NOSLOC PRODUCTS. Ex-freezer Te Kuiti. For information and prices www.nosloc.com or phone 07 878 6868.

FORESTRY WANTED

NATIVE FOREST FOR MILLING also Macrocarpa and Red Gum, New Zealand wide. We can arrange permits and plans. Also after milled timber to purchase. NEW ZEALAND NATIVE TIMBER SUPPLIERS (WGTN) LIMITED 04 293 2097 Richard.

GOATS WANTED

FERAL GOATS WANTED. All head counted, payment on pick-up, pick-up within 24hours. Prices based on works schedule. Experienced musterers available. Phone Bill and Vicky Le Feuvre 07 893 8916. GOATS WANTED. All weights. All breeds. Prompt service. Payment on pick up. My on farm prices will not be beaten. Phone David Hutchings 07 895 8845 or 0274 519 249. Feral goats mustered on a 50/50 share basis.

$2.00 + GST per word - Please print clearly Name: Phone: Address: Email: Heading: Advert to read:

LK0089739©

NZ Farmers Weekly is recognised as the leading farming publication in providing a balance of agri news, opinion and market information to the rural sector in New Zealand. It has developed a global reach with its publications and primary sector data analysis delivered in both print and digital. The Farmers Weekly Account Manager will focus on print and online digital sales into our leading rural publication and web site – farmersweekly.co.nz along with other subscription publications we represent, NZ Dairy Exporter and Country-Wide magazines. You will take full ownership of a portfolio of clients in understanding their business objectives and be responsible to maintain and accelerate customer revenue and bring in new client business. You will be comfortable selling directly to clients and also into advertising agencies. You will be the face of Farmers Weekly in the South Island working remotely within the Christchurch region and reporting into NZX Agri HQ in Feilding. You will be part of a wider sales team and will be working to reach business KPI’s and successfully manage your revenue pipeline to achieve sales performance targets. As you will be working independently you’ll need to have loads of energy, a can-do attitude and strong communication and computer skills. Your resilient sales skills and your ability to build client relationships at all levels will be essential in this role. You will need to demonstrate sound sales skills and have an absolute passion for NZ’s rural sector is essential, past media experience is preferred but not essential. You will be well rewarded for your performance with a competitive salary, potential to earn sales incentives and a company car, phone, laptop etc are all part of the total remuneration package. To apply for this role go to SEEK and search Account Manager – Canterbury. Job #34378430

LK0089883©

The successful applicant will be a friendly and collaborative person who enjoys a challenge, and is enthusiastic about maintaining and developing the property in a sustainable manner. Schooling – 15km to Akaroa. Four-bedroom comfortable home.

You’ll be focussed on developing yourself as a specialist within a very strong farming district, this includes servicing the sheep and beef clients along with dairy support. Whilst you will receive great support from the team, the nature of this role is very autonomous, so time management, planning, organisational skills and administrative experience will set the foundation for success.

www.pggwrightson.co.nz

West Coast Dairy Support We are looking for an experienced Shepherd to join our team. Located 10 minutes from Westport, this dairy support unit carries approximately 19,000 su per year over 700ha. Stock units include a mix of bulls, steers and dairy heifers. This role offers a variety of work including fencing, tractor driving, stock work and animal health management. A tidy 2-bedroom house is available. What you will bring: • 1-2 years’ experience as a Shepherd. • Minimum of 2 well controlled dogs. • Be a team player with good communication skills. To learn more about this opportunity, please call Tracy Gage-Brown – Farm Manager on 027 200 6980. To apply visit www.landcorp.co.nz/careers Applications close 5pm, Wednesday 25 October 2017.

Return this form either by fax to 06 323 7101 attention Debbie Brown Post to NZX Agri Classifieds, PO Box 529, Feilding 4740 - by 12pm Wednesday or Freephone 0800 85 25 80

GRAZING AVAILABLE FOR DAIRY WEANERS. Long term, great rates. Phone Dave 06 864 4412.

PROPERTY WANTED HOUSE FOR REMOVAL wanted. North Island. Phone 021 0274 5654.

RAMS FOR SALE 2017 has been a good season for Romneys. Top Ramguard Facial eczema tested, SIL recorded, Purebred Romney Rams will be hard to find. Approx 80 Rams will be available at the 33rd Mid-Northern Romney Ram Fair Thursday 2nd November 2017 at 12 noon. In conjunction with Waikato Agricultural and Pastoral Association. Waikato Events Centre. Claudelands Hamilton. BOOK AN AD. For only $2.00 + gst per word you can book a word only ad in Farmers Weekly Classifieds. Ph Debbie on 0800 85 25 80 to book in.

WANTED TO BUY SHEEP NETTING strainer boards. Phone 06 342 8772.

Classifieds

THE NEW ZEALAND FARMERS WEEKLY – October 16, 2017

w w w. e l e c t r o t e k . c o . n z

DRY FONTERRA SHARES WANTED

STOP BIRDS NOW!

P.O. Box 30, Palmerston North 4440, NZ

classifieds@nzx.com – 0800 85 25 80

Our client is looking to secure up to 25,000

ZON BIRDSCARER

DRY Fonterra shares (or units) for a period of minimum 1 and up to 5 years. Full interim and final dividend paid plus an extra 20 cent dividend per share annually.

Sainsbury Logan & Williams Ph 06 835 3069 • Email : agb@slw.co.nz

HERBAGE SEEDGROWERS SUBSECTION

NEW HOMES

ELECTION

SOLID – PRACTICAL WELL INSULATED – AFFORDABLE

livestock@nzx.com – 0800 85 25 80

If you are interested, nomination forms are available by emailing prawlinson@fedfarm.org.nz.

Call Nigel

0800 85 25 80 livestock@nzx.com

LK0088986©

of Northland. Excellent delivery and service. We quote on a per hectare basis. GIBB-GRO is sold in 500gm and Kg packaging. • Competitive quotes • FREE delivery • $5.85+GST per hectare

Brian Mace 0274 389 822 / 07 571 0336 brianmace@xtra.co.nz www.gibb-gro.co.nz

Livestock

WAGYU DAIRY CROSS WEANERS

15-mth Friesian Heifers

Clarke Memorial Domain Mauriceville 11th & 12th November 2017 Entries close 5th November Tight Square Challenge & Handy Teams Event with great prize money. For information contact Jace Heynes for a programme – tjheynes@icloud.com • 06 377 3433

GRAZERS WANTED

For Sale

LK0089849©

Are you looking in the right direction?

Servicing NZ clients from Gore to the far north

25/09/2017 4:09:23 PM

WAIRARAPA HANDY YARD DOG TRIAL LIVESTOCK ADVERTISING

GIBB-GRO the plant growth regulator of choice!

For friendly & professional advice CALL 0800 843 0987 Fax: 07 843 0992 Email: power@thecableshop.co.nz THE CABLE SHOP WAIKATO www.thecableshop.co.nz

by 4pm Monday, 6 November 2017

PALMERSTON SALE YARDS, Marquee area.

Prices include delivery to your door!

Herbage Seedgrowers Subsection PO Box 20448 Bishopdale Christchurch 8543

FF Herbage Seedgrowers advert - 1709.indd 1

See GIBB-GRO at East Otago field days

HOMES FARM SHEDS SUBDIVISIONS PUMPS

Nomination forms must be in the hands of the: Call or email us for your free copy of our plans Email: info@ezylinehomes.co.nz Phone: 07 572 0230 Web: www.ezylinehomes.co.nz

18-19 October 2017

We could save you hundreds of $$

Nominations are called to fill vacancies in the South Canterbury and North Canterbury wards of Federated Farmers, resulting from the rotational retirement of sitting members on Tuesday 7 November 2017.

Our homes are built using the same materials & quality as an onsite build. Easily transported to almost anywhere in the North Island. Plans range from one bedroom to four bedroom First Home – Farm House Investment – Beach Bach

EAST OTAGO FIELD DAYS

POWER CABLE

Federated Farmers Arable

Paroa Friesian Stud

Multiple lines of 2016 born 100% recorded AI bred Heifers out of high quality herds available in various sized lines. BW & PW’s are above the national average. Live weights vary from 250kg-300kgs Grazing and bulls available if required. Lines from $1080 + GST Contact: Paul Kane Ph 027 286 9279 National Dairy Coordinator paul.kane@carrfields.co.nz Philip Webb 027 801 8057 Central & Southern NI Dairy Coordinator

• Steers and/or Heifers at competitive per kg weight gain rates • Minimum 90kg start weight • From November 2017 start date • Short and long term options available • Simple no-fuss agreements OR Register your interest for future grazing of R1yr and R2yr from May 2018. For further information please contact: Tim or Erin O’Brien Phone: 06 857 8305 Email: tim@brownrigg.co.nz

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TH IN K P R EB UILT

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• LEASE • BUY • SERVICE • COMPLIANCE

Adrian Barclay – Lawyer

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For further details contact:

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EARMARKERS

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HOOF TRIMMER

LK0089848©

DE HORNER

Phone: +64 6 357 2454 AD0089621©

electro-tek@xtra.co.nz

www.carrfieldslivestock.co.nz

2-year-old Bulls for Sale – A2/A2

MANU

FOREST VIEW

Poll Dorset Rams

On Farm Auction – 27 Nov 2017

Private Paddock Sales

Northland Poll Dorset Breeders on the move Poll Dorsets with a difference

Phone Robert Cleland 07 308 8554 • 021 170 9159

MANU 38/11

FV 99/12

Rams on show at the Waikato A&P Show.

Rams with meat in all the right places.

Come and see us

Manu Poll Dorset Stud Alex & Delwyn Clements 09 433 5871 clements@ubernet.co.nz SIL recorded

FOREST VIEW 99/12

Breeding for • Early growth • Meat • Hind quarters • Good feet

Inspections welcome

Forest View Poll Dorset Stud Brian & Jean Clements 09 433 7033 bjclements@xtra.co.nz

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Breeding for 70 years Bred A2 cows for over 20 years Selling in paddock G3 proﬁle, TB free, BVD tested

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Paroa Jumbal Campbell

• • • •

livestock@nzx.com – 0800 85 25 80

Livestock

PROTECT YOUR FUTURE FLOCKS

STAY OUT FRONT OF THE MOB

ECZEMA TOLERANT WAITEIKA HILL COUNTRY ROMNEYS RAMGUARD TESTING SINCE 1985

Oamaru

Equity Partner or Equity Manager

***** RATING

* Robust functional sheep that survive * Dag and Condition Scoring * No ewes worm drenched, dipped or vaccinated * Monitoring Parasites

Required for 500 cow irrigated unit 15kms from Oamaru New conversion Looking for $1million minimum investment (cash or cows)

Keith Abbott Raglan 027 463 9859 www.waiteikaromneys.co.nz Genetically linked to Waimai Romney

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Apply in first instance to John Cheesman 0274 946 604

Advertise your ram sales in The NZ Farmers Weekly

WormFEC™ LK0089903©

1st July 2018 startup Terms negotiable

THE NEW ZEALAND FARMERS WEEKLY – October 16, 2017

Phone Nigel 0800 85 25 80 or email livestock@nzx.com

Jon Knauf

1447 Hereheretau Rd, RD 6, WAIROA 4196

LIVESTOCK ADVERTISING

PROFIT-A-BULL EXCELLENCE

CONTACT: Jon Knauf 06 838 6793 E: jsknauf@gisborne.net.nz

Providing the right sires for you...

Advertise your ram sale in The NZ Farmers Weekly

Phil Transom 0274 420 060 PGG Wrightson Ross Mitchell 0274 048 965 Fergus Rural

www.kerrahsimmentals.co.nz

Quality Rising 2yr Old BULLS FOR SALE

Romney. Breeding Composite. Terminal Composite. Perendale.

For more information please contact us Tom Jackson 07 825 4966 021 929 389

Call Nigel

tom@piquethillfarms.co.nz

william@piquethillfarms.co.nz

piquethillstud.co.nz

A Simmental bull for every purpose!

Raupuha Studs Where every day is an open day

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All NZ DP FLK

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• 100% sale rams are 5k DNA tested for greater accuracy – a ﬁrst for the NZ sheep industry • 150%+ lambing on steep hill country rising up to 637m asl • 11 years of growth rate and meat yield progeny trials • 97 years of breeding rams for the NZ sheep industry

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• 147 clients last year purchased or leased Paki-iti rams last year

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paki-iti.co.nz

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All NZ DP FLK

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Visit to view our breeding programs

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BUT BREEDING IS MORE THAN NUMBERS It is about longevity, structural soundness, constitution and then the numbers.

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Raupuha Perendale

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PAKI-ITI ROMTEX

Stewart Morton 06 328 5772 • Andrew Morton 06 328 2856 RD 54 Kimbolton, Manawatu • pakiroms@farmside.co.nz

LK0089868©

Raupuha Perendale

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NUMBERS TELL A STORY

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AD0089650©

• www.raupuhastud.co.nz Mahoenui

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Russell Profﬁt Phone 07 877 8977 Email: rnmwprofﬁt@xtra.co.nz

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 

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Suffolk and Suftex terminal 2ths available.

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MARK THESE DATES ON YOUR CALENDAR: October 10th – Open Day 9-12 October 12th - BLGNZ Ram Buying Workshop – RSVP November 7 – Open Day and Fe Trial Work November 21st - On Farm Sale 12pm

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Perendale 2th rams tested .52 2017 Romdale 2th rams tested .52 2017 You can’t find higher tested Perendale and Romdales!

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Suffolk & SufTex

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Perendale & Romdale

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RAUPUHA #1 PERENDALES ARE

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2033 State Hway 3, RD Mahoenui 3978 E: rnmwproffit@xtra.co.nz www.raupuhastud.co.nz

PMS 7512

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How much has eczema you? Russell & Maviscost Proffit Start your genetic progress here. P: 07 8778977 M: 0273552927 Follow Facial Eczema Testedthe leader

PAKI-ITI ROMNEY

On farm sale Tues 21st November

    

livestock@nzx.com

Sheep Industry Award Winner Maternal Trait Leader for Parasite Resistance

High Performance Genetics

• Longevity and structural soundness • FE Tolerance and Parasite Resistance • Hogget Mating

www.nikaucoopworth.co.nz 09 233 3230 Sale date Monday Nov 6. 2017 Tuakau Saleyards

LK0089508©

0800 85 25 80

Will Jackson 07 825 4480 027 739 9939

Livestock

THE NEW ZEALAND FARMERS WEEKLY – October 16, 2017

SALE TALK

Meadowslea Hill-Bred Rams

A farmer gets sent to jail, and his wife is trying to hold the farm together until her husband can get out.

AUT or SPRING BULL CALVES 260-350kgs

450-500kgs 2 YR FRSN & BEEF BULLS

The following mixed-aged cattle for sale

Ph: Michael 021 635 021

Open Day - 500 Rams - 7 breeds

Albany, New Zealand wagyu pure bred nz

wagyupurebrednz@hotmail.com

KAAHU

Ram Selection Forum

Beef and Lamb Genetics – NZ Maternal Worth Index explained

Ross Dyer 0274 333 381

Friday October 27th 1 – 3pm on-farm SH 8, Fairlie

A Financing Solution For Your Farm E info@rdlfinance.co.nz

www.dyerlivestock.co.nz

• Romney • TexRom • Romdale • Perendale x Tex x Romney • Kelso x Romney • Kelso Maternal • Kelso Terminal (Blk Face)

Contact: David Giddings Meadowslea – 027 229 9760 PGGW – Keith Wilson 027 412 5766 Greg Uren 027 431 4051 RLL – Anthony Cox 027 208 3071 PWA – Hamish Zuppicich 027 403 3025

Coopworth & Romney Coopworth X

STOCK WANTED

Phone Murray Sargent 07 882 8899 or 027 392 7242

Traditional Beef Heifers 240kg + 80 & 100kg Friesian Weaner Bulls for October delivery.

Ram Sale

STOCK FOR SALE

www.meadowslea.co.nz

Beef X Autumn Heifers $465

Thursday 30th November – 300 Rams

■ FE Tolerant ■ Worm Resilient ■ Meaty carcase & good bone MYOMAXTM muscling gene ■ SIL Recorded ■ Top Performance

COWS WITH CALVES AT FOOT

LIVESTOCK ADVERTISING

Aaron Clapperton 027 496 7410 Richard Seavill 021 169 8276 / 07 825 4984 Chris Smith 027 496 7413 / 07 870 4552 Bryce Young 027 496 7411

PHONE NIGEL RAMSDEN 0800 85 25 80

Office 07 823 4559 BYLLIVESTOCK.CO.NZ byllivestock

www.kaahu.co.nz e: murraysargent@hotmail.com

Your source for PGG Wrightson livestock and farming listings

Key: Dairy

Beef

Sheep

Other

J EVERITT & SONS LTD 45 EVERITT ROAD, TE KAO Thursday 19th October 2017 Commencing 12:30pm Approx. 320 head 150 1yr Ang X Strs 20 1yr Char X Strs 40 A/B Ang & Ang Here Strs 40 1yr Char X Hfrs 25 1yr Ang & Ang Here Hfrs 45 A/B Ang & Ang Here Hfrs For enquiries please contact Dean May – 0275 901 001 or 09 408 7272

MOTERE ANGUS MOTERE ANGUS EST. 1910 Yearling Bulls for Private Sale • Ease of Calving and temperament • Above average EBV’s • Low gestation • BVD tested and vaccinated • Great constitution • 30 yrs of Heifer breeding • Over 100 yrs of Stud breeding • Low birth weight • High growth rates • Suitable for all beef and dairy programmes • Adapt quickly to new surroundings

pggwrightson.co.nz/dairyherdsales

Motere Station and Angus Stud are now under new management. We are driven and focused on providing the same traditions and values with fresh new ideas and a passionate new team so we can keep breeding what the New Zealand Farmers seek. We welcome any questions, feedback and suggestions. Enquiries please contact: Isaac Pharazyn 06 857 3828 or 027 857 3828 Brenton Giddens 027 446 9961

Freephone 0800 10 22 76 | www.pggwrightson.co.nz

Helping grow the country

LK0089463©

Mixed-aged purebred Wagyu bulls High marbling, large mixed-aged Wagyu steers 18-month purebred Wagyu heifers Bloodlines include Itimicho, Fukukane and Tairaire

2 YR X BRED HEIFERS

LK0089869©

1. 2. 3. 4.

But, because he is in jail all of the farmer’s mail is censored. So when the sheriff and his deputies read this, they all run out to the farm and dig up the entire potato field looking for guns. After two full days of digging, they don’t find one single weapon. The farmer then writes to his wife: “Honey, now is when you should plant the potatoes.”

STOCK REQUIRED

LK0089803©

The farmer writes back: “Honey, don’t go near that field. That’s where all my guns are buried.”

1 YR FRSN BULLS 260-350kgs 260-330kgs 1 YR ANG & ANG X STEERS 1 YR BEEF & BEEF X HEIFERS 200-280kgs

LK0088965©

She’s not, however, very good at farm work, so she writes a letter to him in jail: “Dear sweetheart, I want to plant the potatoes. When is the best time to do it?”

livestock@nzx.com – 0800 85 25 80

MARKET SNAPSHOT

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Grain & Feed

MILK PRICE FORECAST ($/KGMS) 2017-18

6.45

AS OF 27/07/2017

AS OF 28/09/2017

MILK PRICE COMPARISON

Last year

6 May 17 Jul 17 AgriHQ Spot Fonterra forecast

Sep 17 AgriHQ Seasonal

What are the AgriHQ Milk Prices? The AgriHQ Seasonal milk price is calculated using GDT results and NZX Dairy Futures to give a full season price. The AgriHQ Spot milk price is an indicative price based solely on the prices from the most recent GDT event. To try this using your own figures go to www.agrihq.co.nz/toolbox

WMP GDT PRICES AND NZX FUTURES

7.15

6.00

353

333

NI mutton (20kg)

4.25

2.85

381

379

274

SI lamb (17kg)

7.10

7.00

5.70

Feed Barley

388

386

259

SI mutton (20kg)

4.30

4.25

2.75

230

Export markets (NZ$/kg) 9.21

9.30

7.41

253

247

UK CKT lamb leg

Maize Grain

428

421

355

PKE

251

244

232

7.0

INTERNATIONAL

2500 2000 Dec 16 Mar 17 Jun 17 C2 Fonterra WMP

6.0 5.5

Last week

Prior week

Last year

5.0

CBOT futures (NZ$/t)

4.5

Wheat - Nearest

228

231

204

Corn - Nearest

194

191

188

406

410

287

6.5

600 6.0

South Island 1 7kg lamb

7.5 7.0

ASW Wheat

393

399

274

Feed Wheat

265

258

Feed Barley

366

333

240

107

101

PKE (US$/t)

Sep 17 Dec 17 NZX WMP Futures

6.5

Ex-Malaysia

NZ venison 60kg stag

$/kg

3000

North Island 17kg lamb

7.5

* Domestic grain prices are grower bids delivered to the nearest store or mill. PKE and fertiliser prices are ex-store. Australian prices are landed in Auckland.

APW Wheat

3500

500 5.5 400 5.0 300 4.5 OctOct

DecDec

FebFeb AprApr

5‐yr ave NZX DAIRY FUTURES (US$/T) Nearby contract

Prior week

vs 4 weeks ago

WMP

3060

3200

3050

SMP

1880

1930

AMF

6350

Butter

5880

Last week

Prior week

Last year

(NZ$/kg)

Last week

Prior week

Last year

1930

Urea

477

460

29 micron

6.65

6.70

6650

6460

Super

297

314

35 micron

3.30

3.50

4.95

6050

5950

DAP

784

39 micron

3.30

4.90

704

350

$/kg

3100

5.5

c/k kg (net)

250

3000 Dec Jan Latest price

Feb Mar 4 weeks ago

Apr

Sharemarket Briefing THE New Zealand market moved higher last week with the NZX50 breaking the 8000 mark for the first time. The index is up more than 17% for the year to date. Positives in the economy are contributing to confidence but it is important to look at a few things when we talk about these exceptional numbers. Firstly, the NZX50 is a gross index – it isn’t calculated purely by share price changes but includes dividends. As a high yielding market, the dividend portion is quite a significant contribution to performance. Secondly, the 17% climb includes recovery from the end of last year, which included four consecutive months of declines. From the high in September to the low point in December the NZX50 dropped over 8%. Global markets during that period climbed higher so some of the 17% was a catch-up. Thirdly, there have been some exceptional performances from a few stocks. Market darling a2 Milk has more than tripled in price and now has the fourth largest market cap, at more than NZ$5.5 billion. Synlait Milk also had an exceptional run, up 140% this year. Xero has seen a meteoric rise. Market commentary provided by Craigs Investment Partners

18464

S&P/NZX 50 INDEX

8068

S&P/NZX 10 INDEX

7500

150 Sep 13

NZ venison 60kg stag

600

NZ$/t

US$/t

450

Coarse xbred w ool indicator

6.5

CANTERBURY FEED PRICES

3200

14159

This yr

NZ average (NZ$/t)

WMP FUTURES - VS FOUR WEEKS AGO

S&P/FW AG EQUITY

Last yr

WOOL

* price as at close of business on Thursday

S&P/FW PRIMARY SECTOR

Jun Jun AugAug

FERTILISER

Last price*

2900 Nov

Last year

7.15

Australia (NZ$/t)

4000

Last week Prior week

NI lamb (17kg)

Feed Wheat

Waikato (NZ$/t)

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

c/kkg (net)

$/kgMS

Prior week

Milling Wheat

PKE

US$/t

Last week Canterbury (NZ$/t)

6.75

5 Mar 17

SHEEP MEAT

DOMESTIC

AGRIHQ 2017-18

FONTERRA 2017-18

Sheep

$/kg

Dairy

Sep 14 Feed barley

Sep 15

Sep 16 Sep 17 PKE spot

Auckland International Airport Limited

YTD High

YTD Low

6.29

7.43

6.21

Meridian Energy Limited

2.87

3.02

2.57

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corporation Ltd Spark New Zealand Limited The a2 Milk Company Limited Fletcher Building Limited Ryman Healthcare Limited Mercury NZ Limited (NS) Xero Limited Air New Zealand Limited (NS)

12.66 3.62 7.74 7.86 9.68 3.44 34.05 3.49

13.15 3.97 7.81 10.86 9.75 3.60 34.30 3.61

8.50 3.32 2.06 7.38 8.12 2.94 17.47 2.08

Listed Agri Shares

3.5 400

300

2.5

Oct Oct

Dec Dec 5‐yr ave

Feb Feb

AprApr Last yr

JunJun

AugAug This yr

Dollar Watch

Top 10 by Market Cap Company

4.5

500

5pm, close of market, Thursday

Company

YTD High

YTD Low

The a2 Milk Company Limited

7.740

7.810

2.060

Cavalier Corporation Limited

0.320

0.810

0.270

Comvita Limited

7.500

8.650

5.150

Delegat Group Limited

6.750

7.000

5.650

Foley Family Wines Limited

1.340

1.500

1.200

Fonterra Shareholders' Fund (NS)

6.170

6.400

5.880

Livestock Improvement Corporation Ltd (NS)

2.300

2.610

2.100

New Zealand King Salmon Investments Ltd

2.050

2.090

1.220

PGG Wrightson Limited

0.590

0.620

0.490

Sanford Limited (NS)

7.850

8.000

6.700

Scales Corporation Limited

3.900

3.960

3.210

Seeka Limited

5.150

5.500

4.300

Tegel Group Holdings Limited

1.320

1.460

1.050

S&P/FW Primary Sector

14159

9307

S&P/FW Agriculture Equity

18464

10899

S&P/NZX 50 Index

8068

6971

S&P/NZX 10 Index

7500

7643

6927

UNITED States inflation This Prior Last NZD vs figures due out on week week year Saturday morning (New USD 0.7116 0.7235 0.7150 Zealand time) had the EUR 0.6078 0.6134 0.6416 potential to move the kiwi AUD 0.9130 0.9203 0.9435 dollar, ANZ Bank senior economist Phil Borkin said. GBP 0.5426 0.5379 0.5671 A surprise fall in the Correct as of 9am last Friday outlook would create further uncertainty over a prospective Federal Reserve rate rise in December and could push the kiwi higher. Although the Fed had been moving towards a rise, there wasn’t a consensus in its debate over inflation. Borkin said a NZ dollar move would be muted because of uncertainty here until a new Government is confirmed. The ANZ has changed its longer-term currency forecasts in recent weeks, largely because it Australian economists expect the RBA to increase interest rates next year. “The market view is that an RBA move could drag the RBNZ higher as well.” The ANZ’s view here is that a rise by the RBNZ is possible late next year but the risk is it will be on hold for longer. “It has tried earlier to tighten but then had to remove that,” Borkin said. “The economy isn’t weak but there are growth wobbles and it’s hard to see a reason to hike.” The ANZ now expects the kiwi to be US$0.73 at year-end from the earlier forecast of 0.70. For June next year the forecast is 0.73 from the earlier 0.68 figure with a move to 0.68 from 0.67 late next year.

Alan Williams

Markets

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017

CANTERBURY FEED WHEAT

NI SLAUGHTER LAMB

SI SLAUGHTER STEER

($/T)

($/KG)

TWO-YEAR HEREFORD-FRIESIAN STEERS, 433-490KG, AT FRANKTON

($/KG)

($/KG LW)

7.15

381

5.45

Cattle & Deer BEEF Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

Last week

Prior week

Last year

NI Steer (300kg)

5.70

5.50

NI Bull (300kg)

5.50

5.20

NI Cow (200kg)

4.30

4.10

SI Steer (300kg)

5.45

5.50

SI Bull (300kg)

5.10

4.90

SI Cow (200kg)

4.25

4.00

US imported 95CL bull

7.05

6.87

6.22

US domestic 90CL cow

6.73

6.69

6.01

Export markets (NZ$/kg)

North Island steer (300kg)

6.5 $/kg

6.0 5.5 5.0 4.5 4.0 South Island steer (300kg)

6.5 6.0

NZ venison 60kg stag

c/k kg (net)

$/kg

5.5 600 5.0 500

400 4.5 300 4.0

Oct Oct

Dec Dec

Feb Feb

5‐yr ave

Apr Apr

Jun Jun

Last yr

AugAug This yr

VENISON Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

Last week Prior week

Last year

NI Stag (60kg)

9.70

8.90

NI Hind (50kg)

9.60

8.80

SI Stag (60kg)

9.95

9.85

8.90

SI Hind (50kg)

9.85

9.75

8.80

New Zealand venison (60kg Stag)

c/k kg (net) $/kg

NZ venison 60kg stag

600 8 500 7 400

300 6

Oct Oct

Dec Dec 5‐yr ave

Feb Feb

Apr Apr Last yr

Jun Jun

Aug Aug This yr

3.14

high lights

$3.23-$3.32

$111-$126

One-year South Devon and South Devon-cross steers, 410-445kg, at Stortford Lodge

Medium-good Merino mixed sex hoggets at Temuka

Lambs start slowly

HIS time last year new season lamb numbers were starting to flow into the North Island yards, but the very wet spring has slowed growth rates and delayed weaning. Feilding offered up 300 head, which sold for $86-$120, while around 700 are expected at the next store sale at Stortford Lodge. NORTHLAND NORTHLAND WELLSFORD’s Monday sale was always calendared as a big one, but as persistent rain again put paddocks at saturation level, even more numbers were drawn out. Just over 1000 entries sold in over 140 pens and while there was some highlights, there was also a few bargains to be had. Two-year steer quality was mixed and just a handful hit $3/kg, with even fewer getting to levels seen earlier in the season. A standout was 15 Simmental, 353kg, which achieved $3.48/kg, but these were in a league of their own with most beef and beef-Friesian, 420-490kg, trading at $2.92-$3.00/kg. Heifers of similar breeding and 360-460kg sold at a 20c/ kg discount to the steers, though their prices were relatively steady. The price gap closed between the 1-year steers and heifers. Local interest was prevalent on both sections, but 300 head of steers meant buyers could afford to be selective. Quality was paid for, with heavier Hereford-Friesian, 306-328kg, selling for higher $/kg at $3.37-$3.51/kg than most other lighter lines. Heifers were not far behind, and there was particular strength in well-marked Hereford-Friesian, 248-264kg, which sold for $3.05-$3.14/kg, while 310400kg returned $2.93-$3.08/kg. Bulls were a mixed bunch and largely unwanted, with most making $400$700. While the sale of 450 cattle at KAIKOHE last Wednesday lacked the spring feel many vendors are waiting for, there was still a good crowd gathered and a full clearance. Paddocks still need to dry out, and

SUCCESS: The Whyte family’s Southern Polled Herefords business in Southland sold 156 two-year Hereford bulls onfarm at an average $2475 each last Monday. More photos: farmersweekly.co.nz

quality was only moderate, with most lines crossbred. The best of the 2-year steers made $2.85-$2.95/kg, and lesser quality dairy-cross were sound enough at $2.55-$2.65/kg. Good heifers, including Charolais-cross made up to $2.85-$2.90/kg, though lesser lines fell off that pace. Results in the 1-year pens were variable, and while better crossbred steers managed $3.20-$3.30/kg, prices dropped away sharply to $2.85-$2.90/ kg. Very few heifers hit $3.00/kg, and most bulls traded at $2.85-$3.00/kg. COUNTIES COUNTIES Older steers sold well at TUAKAU last Thursday, with some lots up 10-15c/kg on the previous sale, Keith West of Carrfields Livestock reported. One-year steers in the 600-700 yarding achieved similar rates to the previous sale, but heifers eased slightly. The offering included heavier Hereford-Friesian and Angus-cross steers, 503-604kg, which traded at

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MORE: FULL STORY P48 $2.88-$3.19/kg. Dairy-beef 2-year steers, 407-465kg, made $2.95-$3.16/ kg, with Friesian, 400-445kg, earning $2.60-$2.73/kg. The best of the 1-year steers were Hereford-Friesian, 325-415kg, which returned $1100$1240 and the next cut, 281-313kg, $900-$1035. Good weaner steers, 150-165kg, sold at $665-$800, with a lighter pen, 102kg, returning $530. Hereford-cross bulls, 413kg, made $2.73/kg, and weaner Friesian bulls, 114kg, $570. Older heifers also sold well with lots at 388-407kg making $2.85-$2.90/kg, though 1-year prices eased by 5-10c/ kg. The best lots at 274-305kg fetched $855-$970, and 260-280kg earned $795-$845. Weaner heifers, 118-175kg, returned $445-$595. About 350 cattle were presented at last Wednesday’s prime sale. The heifer and steer markets were steady and boner prices lifted by 5-10c/ kg, largely due to the shortage of numbers.

Continued page 46

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46 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017 Heavy prime steers traded at $2.90-$2.96/kg, with medium types making $2.84-$2.89/kg, and lighter $2.74-$2.81/kg. Heavy beef heifers earned $2.81-$2.87/kg, and medium $2.77-$2.80/kg. Lighter dairy-type heifers fetched $2.35$2.56/kg. A small entry of beef cows sold at $2.20-$2.36/kg, and heavy well-conditioned Friesians fetched $2.07-$2.28/kg. Medium Friesians made $1.91-$2.04/kg. and lighter boners $1.68-$1.88/kg. The sheep market remained steady last Monday. Heavy prime hoggets in the 800-900head yarding sold at $154-$169, with medium types making $140-$152, and lighter $111-$133. A handful of store hoggets returned $98$114, with heavy prime ewes fetching $124-$144 and mediums $84-$109. BAY OF PLENTY BAY OF PLENTY Steers featured prominently in all sections at RANGIURU last Tuesday, though results were mixed based on quality and demand. Whispers of declining schedules and the need to make room for replacements brought heavier cattle to the yards, and nearly 40 steers were offered in the prime pens. Four very good HerefordFriesian, 690kg, managed $2130, $3.09/kg, and 636-645kg made $3.07-$3.13/kg, while 557-616kg returned $2.93-$2.97/kg. Boner cows sold on a firm market as Friesian, 492-494kg, made $2.00$2.09/kg. Demand was strong for good 2-year steers, with HerefordFriesian, 511-538kg, making $2.89-$3.02/kg, and a small line of Angus, 540kg, $1590, $2.94/kg. Friesian steers, 390-410kg, sold to limited interest however for $2.33-$2.37/kg, though their older brothers, 505kg, had the yield and returned $2.88/kg. A small heifer section featured Devon, 553kg, $3.20/kg. One-year quality was more of a mixed bag, and prices reflected it. Better beef and beef-Friesian steers managed $890-$1080, though dairy-cross lines sold down to $450-$550. Quality was more consistent in the heifer pens but line sizes were small. Hereford-Friesian, 266-308kg, made $800-$920, while the highlight was 11 Hereford, 278kg at $920, $3.31/kg. A very small sheep sale took little time to complete, and prime hoggets made $122-$165, and ewes, $89-$128. WAIKATO The Dairy Beef Weaner Fairs got off to a bit of a slow start at FRANKTON last Tuesday, as the wet spring meant fewer numbers available and a smaller buying gallery. The yarding of 530 dairy beef weaners was half that offered last year, and the calves tended to be either very heavy, or at the lighter end of the scale, with few actually sitting around the 100kg mark. The market however was at expected levels, with bull prices up $30-$50 on 2016 levels. Very few lighter Hereford-Friesian bulls were penned, and 100-110kg sold for $550-$640. Heavier lines, 120134kg, returned $650-$710, with most trading at $5.30-$5.43/kg. Friesian bulls sold to expectations, with light lines well

up on last year’s prices, but the gap closed significantly as the weight increased with buyers working to per head budgets. Those 78-95kg sold for $430-$530, while 100-110kg returned $500$575 and 120-135kg, $565-$580. Heifer numbers were low but this market also showed improvement as 93-127kg Hereford-Friesian made a respectable $470-$562. Though the number of cattle to sale was lower last Wednesday at FRANKTON, those presented met good demand from a local buying bench. Prime steers were first up for the day with prices solid. Beefbred steers, 598-704kg, sold over a tight band at $2.85-$2.88/kg, and Beef-Dairy cross, 546-637kg, were strong at $2.90-$2.96/kg. Two-year steers sold to keen interest, with Beef-cross, 376kg, lifting to $2.87/kg, and Friesiancross, 435-490kg, up to $3.14/ kg. Heifers were steady, with Hereford-Friesian, 423-489kg, returning $2.74-$2.85/kg. A line of Shorthorn heifers, 397kg, garnered $2.90/kg. Returns were varied in the 1-year pens, with Angus-Friesian steers, 278-302kg, back to $2.95$3.01/kg, whilst those 310-340kg lifted to $3.25/kg. Heifers of the same breeding, 230-269kg, also lifted, finishing at $2.96-$3.01/kg, as did Friesian bulls 385kg, $2.71/ kg. Autumn-born weaners sold on a steady market and Hereford heifers, 200kg, made $635, and Friesian bulls, 177kg, $680. Boner cows were well received with the majority fetching $2.09$2.30/kg. KING COUNTRY KING COUNTRY TE KUITI put up a yarding of cattle on Friday 6th October that was worth travelling for, Carrfield’s agent Carl White reported. The sale kicked off with 3-year steers, 578kg, $2.91/kg, followed by a good offering of 2-year steers including very heavy lines, 650kg plus, at $2.79/kg. The best of the bunch were Angus-cross, 457kg, $3.27/kg, while other beef-cross, 450-480kg, returned $3.20-$3.25/ kg. Two –year heifers, 420-461kg, fetched $2.75-$2.80/kg, while smaller framed animals, 400kg plus, made $2.80-$2.90/kg. The younger cattle sold to keen interest, and steers, 216kg, managed $3.64/kg. The yarding did include some heavier lines though, which were off that pace at $2.60/kg. Well-marked Friesian bulls, 318-325kg, made $970-$980, $3.00/kg, with heifers also hitting and passing the $3.00/kg mark. Last Wednesday’s sheep sale was a quiet affair, with the highlight being a strong cull ewe market. Store hogget numbers are dwindling with just one row offered, but a quality consignment of capital stock shorn Coopworth ewe’s sold exceptionally well, with the top line making $176, and the second cut, $169. Later-born hoggets made $102 and $98, with most other pens trading at $102$115. Solid demand for quality ewes with docked lambs-at-foot meant these reached $90 all counted, though smaller types made $40. Heavy mixed age ewes sold for $140-$147, and medium shorn

lines, $120-$125. Heavy fresh 2-tooth ewes made $88-$90, while 4-tooth wethers sold well at $169. The best of the prime hoggets made $173-$175, with the remainder trading at $130-$160. TARANAKI TARANAKI Good weather came a day too late for the TARANAKI cattle fair at Stratford last Wednesday, with few local buyers able to join the bidding with paddocks still at saturation levels, New Zealand Farmers Livestock agent Stephen Sutton reported. Buyers however did travel from outside areas for the 950 head yarding.

Weight until the price is right The 2-year steer section showed pockets of strength though prices are well back on September levels. With most beef-Friesian, those over 500kg made $2.90-$3.00/ kg, while 427kg achieved $3.10$3.13/kg. Heifer numbers were limited with a number of bigger consignments withdrawn. Most traded at $2.70-$2.80/kg. Stronger competition on the lighter alternatives found in the 1-year pens did bring some spark to the market. The majority were Hereford-Friesian, and in the steer pens good quality lines, 290-320kg, sold for $3.27-$3.41/ kg, while 270-285kg returned $3.55-$3.78/kg. However these prices were limited to a select few, with lesser bred lines selling under $3.00/kg, regardless of weight. A nice line up of heifers made solid returns, with most trading at $2.80-$3.30/kg. Good lines, 292306kg, made $3.33-$3.44/kg, and 210-280kg, $3.07-$3.18/kg. Lesser types, 255-270kg, fetched $2.80$2.90/kg. A small line of Friesian bulls, 260kg, sold for $800, $3.07/ kg. HAWKE’S BAY HAWKE’S BAY Store cattle numbers swelled to 1270 head at STORTFORD LODGE last Wednesday, with the market reflecting a true spring sale. The prime cattle sale consisted of eight lines, though competition for steers came from both the finisher and processor corners and prices firmed. High yielding lines sold for $3.11-$3.20/kg, with Hereford-Friesian, 740-767kg, making $3.11-$3.16/kg, and Hereford, 700kg, $3.20/kg. Angus & Angus-Hereford traded at $3.09/ kg. Cow returns were solid for the limited numbers offered, and the better lines made $2.16-$2.20/kg. A larger lineup of ewes was matched by increased demand and prices firmed. Over half were heavy to very heavy types and sold for $129-$145, with few lines selling below $100.

Hogget line sizes were small, but buyers were astute in their estimated weights with tight per head ranges achieved. Male hoggets with lambs teeth sold for $140-$190, and the best of the ewe hoggets made $144-$163. Interest in longer term hoggets was surprisingly solid, with few lines below $130. Last Wednesday ewes with lambs-at-foot continued to be a big feature, with Wairoa lines again boosting numbers. A much smaller portion stayed local though as most headed up to Tolaga Bay. The market was firm and good ewes with forward blackface lambs sold to $102$103.50 all counted, with the next cuts earning $96-$98. A sizable entry of lighter ewes with very young lambs still made good values at $79-$88. The decline in store hogget numbers continued with just over 1000 penned and while the market is trending down, it is at a slower rate than anticipated. Most male lines were heavy types, 44kg plus, and sold for $143-$164, with mixed sex also in that slot. Heavy ewe hoggets made $128-$157, and longer term lines, $72-$114. Of interest was a line of very heavy ram hoggets, with the hoggets with lamb’s teeth making $175, but the fresh 2-tooths dropping to $63. A big bench of buyers gathered to secure high quality traditional and exotic store cattle. Demand for 2-year steers kept prices steady on a fortnight ago, though the very heavy lines, 530-565kg did show a slight improvement to average $3.32/kg, while 435-485kg eased to $3.28/kg. Heifers sold on a very steady market to a wide bench, with Angus & Angus-Hereford, 407-463kg achieving $3.14-$3.22/ kg, while beef-Friesian, 353-502kg, traded over a tight range of $2.88$3.00/kg. One-year Angus steers, 313327kg, returned $3.84-$3.90/kg, while Angus & Angus-Hereford, 326-337kg, made steady returns at $3.74-$3.83/kg. Both Angus and Angus & Angus-Hereford, 391-393kg, made similar values of $1310-$1340, $3.35-$3.41/ kg, while a consignment of very heavy South Devon, 410-446kg, returned $1330-$1480, $3.23$3.32/kg. A wide bench of buyers also secured lines in the 1-year heifer pens, which usually tend to stay more local. Again the market was steady, and featured Angus, 251-262kg, $3.15-$3.24/kg, and Angus & Angus-Hereford, 280301kg, $3.46-$3.50/kg. A line of 30 Charolais heifers made steer money, selling for $1205, $3.27/kg, while lighter Hereford-Friesian, 153kg, looked very buy-able in comparison at $540, $3.53/kg. MANAWATU MANAWATU The talking point of a relatively quiet day at FEILDING last Monday was the inclusion of the first spring lambs, with 68 from one property yarded. Sold in two lines these fetched $149-$167, with a slight premium made over similar weighted hoggets. The prime hogget market had a firm tone despite the lateness of the season. Heavy lines returned $156-$190 and medium $131-159, with fresh two-tooth’s discounted by $40-$60.

Ewe numbers were low at 470 head and buyers had to be competitive to secure lines. Good ewes made up the biggest portion of the yarding and sold for $129$151, with medium types at $92$127, and light, $60-$90. Just 18 cattle entered the rostrum and Friesian cows made up the majority. Prices eased as 450-600kg averaged $1.85/kg. A weather-affected calf sale at Manfeild Park had 280 head yarded and limited interest from buyers. All bulls traded for $70$165, and heifers $40-$100. The main interest at Friday’s sale was the first of this season’s store spring lambs with a couple of annual lines entered. Three serious bidders saw strong returns at up to $120. Hoggets were again clean up lines, mostly ewe hoggets, and prices remained buoyant. One small pen of prime hoggets made $161 and the best of the store ewe hoggets sold for $142.50. Very small hoggets dropped as low as $70. Ewes with LAF, $37-$94; new season lambs, $86-$120; hoggets; good, $135-$142.50; lightmedium, $70-$131. Two pens of bullocks started the cattle sale and sold up to $2030, $3.12/kg. The two year steer section offered cattle that were a little plain and, with a higher proportion of dairy cross cattle, eased by around 10c/ kg. The better traditional steers all sold above $4.00/kg and 19 Simmental-cross yearlings sold for $1245, $3.66/kg. With a reasonable selection, this was the firmest section on the day. Yearling bulls struggled a little again. The better Friesians sold well - 10 sold for $1515, $3.05/kg, - but the lighter bulls eased back again. There were no older bulls at all offered. Only one pen of older heifers made it in. Considering almost all the yearling heifers were dairy cross, they actually sold quite well. Angus-Friesian yearling heifers sold for $1040, $3.09/kg. This was a surprisingly small cattle sale. Steers; 3yr, 610-650kg, $1900$2030, $3.11-$3.12/kg; 2yr, 337536kg, $875-$1680, $2.60-$3.36/ kg; 1yr, 267-340kg, $710-$1245, $2.66-$4.61/kg; Bulls; 1yr, 175497kg, $675-$1515, $2.43-$3.86/ kg; Heifers; 2yr, 520kg, $1490, $2.87/kg; 1yr, 183-337kg, $670$1040, $3.08-$3.56/kg. CANTERBURY CANTERBURY More rain had varying impacts on different sections of the CANTERBURY PARK sale last Tuesday, with the older store cattle market adversely affected, though lighter cattle and short-term hoggets were chased. Short term hoggets and fine wool breeds sold to solid interest, with prime hoggets lifting $4-$5 to $130-$189. Ewes continue to be sourced to fill the gaps in chains and the market was steady as good and heavy ewes returned $130$157, and light to medium types at $90-$125. Most two-tooth ewes fetched $116-$139, with males making $84-$120. The store hogget section was a non-event, with low numbers and limited interest. A line of medium Merino ewe hoggets managed $102, while good mixed sex returned $103-$122.

Markets An air of nervousness hung over the rostrum as 650 store cattle needed new homes, and concern over schedule prices took the shine of the prime market. With schedules peaking and space tight prime prices eased. Steers came back 5-10c/kg with finished lines making $2.85-$2.90/ kg, though forward store Angus still managed $3.07-$3.24/kg. The heifer market fell further, and $2.70-$2.85/kg covered nearly all weights and grades. Heavy 2-year cattle proved hard to persuade buyers on, with many focusing on the lighter alternatives found in the 1-year pens. Very little dollar values differentiated the heavy and medium lines, with Hereford-Friesian, 465-480kg, making $2.94-$3.02/kg, and 383421kg, $3.00-$3.03/kg. Lighter lines of lesser condition traded for $2.79-$2.89/kg. Heifer numbers were limited, and HerefordFriesian, 400-414kg, returned $2.86-$2.90/kg. In contrast the 1-year section was positive, and HerefordFriesian steers, 303-337kg, managed $3.26-$3.35/kg, and 197-252kg Murray Grey-cross, $3.37-$3.40/kg. Hereford-Friesian heifers, 262-291kg, returned $3.17$3.34/kg. Bulls also featured, and the last 90 head of a consignment of 400 that would usually be sold at Feilding made pleasing returns, with 243-261kg at $3.26-$3.31/ kg and 225kg, $3.47/kg. Lighter Friesian-cross, 192-241kg, made $650-$810, $3.36-$3.40/kg. A day of sunshine was a welcome addition to the sale at COALGATE last Thursday after significant rain over the past week. Around 60 spring lambs made an appearance and sold for $150$171, though hoggets were still the main feature and the market looks set to hold to the end. Most traded at $130-$169, with very heavy lines returning $172-$189. Fresh 2-tooth males made $80-$90, with ewe’s up to $110. Prime ewe numbers crept up as wet-dries come out and this is another market with a silver lining, Heavy ewes achieved $120$141, with low numbers selling for $106-$118. A line of 28 light ewes with good

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017 lambs-at-foot met keen interest, selling for $91 all counted. The store hogget section was small and featured shorn Merino’s from Tekapo, which sold to good demand. The top line of mixed sex made $116, though most traded at $70-$96. Two vendors sent in the main lines of the store cattle sale and the bulk of both consignments were 1-year Charolais-cross, with one vendor selling mostly steers, and the other heifers. These cattle were well sought after, and the steers, 320-373kg, returned $1190$1310, with the top line making $3.51/kg, and lighter, $3.72/kg. The section however was topped by a line of Angus & AngusHereford from the same camp, which made $1420 for 418kg. Charolais-cross heifers, 300326kg, returned $1075-$1110, with most making $3.58-$3.70/kg, and 203-264kg earned $770-$910. A few other lines also managed to hit $1000. The prime steer market eased as no lines pushed over the $3.00/ kg mark, though 552-566kg did manage to hit it. Other lines of good yield returned $2.86-$2.94/ kg, while dairy-cross types made $2.74-$2.80/kg. The best of the heifers managed $2.86-$2.89/ kg though were few in number, with most 453-533kg and fetching $2.68-$2.83/kg. Dairy lines returned $2.40-$2.52/kg. The cow pens were top heavy with dairy cows and prices held despite the bigger number. The better yielding lines in the 534587kg range made $1.98-$2.00/ kg, while lesser types, 549-570kg, earned $1.76-$1.85/kg. One line of beef cows, 655kg, returned $2.14/ kg, while lighter dairy dropped to $1.52-$1.64/kg. SOUTH CANTERBURY SOUTH CANTERBURY Store hogget volume bucked the seasonal trend at TEMUKA last Monday with a big lift to 5000 head. Store hoggets included 2000 from the Chatham Islands and 1400 shorn Merinos, with the balance from Central Otago. Merino hoggets proved popular and medium to good mixed sex traded at $111-$126, with similar

weighted meat breeds making $85-$117. Male hoggets returned $77$129, and ewes, $106-$150. High prices for ewes with lambs-at-foot is drawing more to auction and of note was a line of 80 1-2 shear ewes with 104 tailed lambs which made $90.50 all counted, though a number of smaller lines reached $91-$92. With space tight for prime hoggets prices did not improve but managed to hold at $120-$180. Ewes had a better sale and prices firmed, with top lines making $140-$186, and the remainder, $85-$135.

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Prime beef steers returned $2.90-$2.99/kg, with second cuts trading at $2.80-$2.88/kg. Friesian steers, 554-630kg, fetched $2.75$2.83/kg. Beef heifers were not far off the pace but quality was better and Charolais, 560-670kg, reached $2.84-$2.85/kg, and Hereford, 453520kg, $2.78-$2.86/kg. Unusual for a Monday sale was a pen of 37 Friesian bulls, sold as one line for $1476, $2.63/kg. Beef cow numbers were low but had quality and prices recovered ground lost as Hereford, 488663kg, made $2.06-$2.11/kg. The dairy portion of the sale was a game of two halves, with heavy heifers and cows improving, though lighter lines eased. Most boner heifers were medium types, 440-476kg, $2.40-$2.53/kg, while lighter lines hovered around the $2/kg mark.

Friesian cows, 580-685kg, firmed to $2.00/kg, with some lines hitting $2.07/kg. Prices could not be sustained through the lighter pens however, and $1.64$1.78/kg was common ground. The run of 1-year dairy-beef continued last Thursday, where nearly 90% of the 980 head yarding was in this age group. Two-year cattle numbers were very low though still demand was limited. Friesian steers, 421-490kg, returned $2.55-$2.57/kg, and Hereford-Friesian heifers, 369370kg, $2.76-$2.82/kg. The 1-year heifer market had quite a following as buyers looked for lighter alternatives with smaller outlays. The steer market showed pockets of strength whereas the heifer market was much more consistent. HerefordFriesian steers, 320-330kg, made $3.28-$3.33/kg, with the same $/ kg paid for slightly lighter heifers at 303-314kg. There was real strength in heifers, 245-259kg, and these managed $880-$920, $3.55-$3.61/kg, with some lines of similar weighted steers reaching these levels, while others were off the pace. The demand in the heifer pens was not just limited to the Hereford-Friesian, as Hereford-cross, 232-325kg, sold for $3.32-$3.42/kg, and Murray Grey-Friesian, 253-257kg, $3.42$3.48/kg. Friesian, 225-269kg, sold at respectable levels also for $2.60$2.61/kg. The bull section was mixed, and while there was good interest on light and medium lines, budget constraints meant heavier lines proved harder to sell. Friesian, 212-225kg, made good values at $3.38-$3.40/kg, but prices dropped sharply for 241-288kg to $3.06-$3.15/kg. Hereford-Friesian, 278-312kg, were good shopping at $2.69-$2.77/kg. Autumn-born results were pleasing, due to the fact they fitted comfortably within people’s budgets. Friesian bulls, 213-267kg, made $715-$810, with the lighter lines fetching $3.35-$3.36/kg. OTAGO OTAGO A feature in the BALCLUTHA store pens was a line of Romneycross ewe hoggets that sold

exceptionally well at $185, PGG Wrightson agent Russell Moloney reported. The remaining hoggets firmed, with top lines at $111, medium $90-$95, and light, $85. A similar result in the prime pens saw heavy hoggets continue to reach high levels of $150-$160, with medium types returning $135-$145, and lighter, $115-$125. Ewe prices were not too dissimilar as the top lines achieved $135$140, medium $125-$130, and light, $115-$120. Ewes with lambs-at-foot proved popular once again, with the small number making $83-$85 all counted. SOUTHLAND SOUTHLAND Store hogget numbers at LORNEVILLE were very limited, and prices maintained recent levels, with top lines trading at $90-$95, medium $80-$85, and light, $60-$70. Strong demand for ewes with lambs-at-foot meant mixed age lines reached $80-$85 all counted, and 2-tooths, $94. Heavy prime hoggets made $150-$160, medium $140-$150, and lighter $120-$130. The best of the woolly ewes sold for $130$150, with heavy shorn lines realising $120-$130. Medium woolly ewes returned $100-$130, and light lines made $60-$100. One-year cattle featured prominently in the store cattle section, with prices steady. Highlights included Herefordcross heifers, 307kg, $1020, and lighter steers, 162-208kg, $610$800. Friesian steers, 235kg, returned $650, while 2-year Friesian, 425kg, made $2.82/kg. Cows were in the spotlight in the prime pens, and prices lifted. Those 500kg plus returned $2.10/ kg, with 450kg making $1.80$1.95/kg, and lighter, $1.70-$1.90/ kg. Beef-cross heifers made $2.70-$2.85/kg, but the majority offered were dairy at $2.20-$2.50/ kg, with light lines earning $1.70/ kg. Friesian steers, 500kg, returned $2.80/kg. Feeder calf numbers were low, and Friesian bulls traded at $100-$130, with Hereford-Friesian making $140-$190. Exotic-cross sold for $100-$210, while AngusFriesian heifers made $60.

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Only available between 16TH October 2017 and 30TH April 2018

You can use Toxovax anytime up to 4 weeks before mating. TOXOVAX is made to order. So be sure to secure your supply by ordering from your vet at least 8 weeks before you intend to introduce the ram.

MADE FOR NEW ZEALAND. CONTROL THE RISK OF TOXOPLASMA AVAILABLE ONLY UNDER VETERINARY AUTHORISATION. ACVM No: A4769. ®Registered trademark. Schering-Plough Animal Health Ltd. Phone: 0800 800 543. www.msd-animal-health.co.nz. NZ/SPV/0917/0002 1. Wilkins, M, O’Connell, E and Te Punga, W. Vaccination of sheep against Toxoplasma abortion. Surveillance December 1992

44-48 FW 16-10.indd 47

13/10/17 3:09 pm

Markets

48 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 16, 2017 NI SLAUGHTER BULL

SI SLAUGHTER LAMB

SI SLAUGHTER STAG

($/KG)

TWO-YEAR ANGUS STEERS, 485566KG, AT STORTFORD LODGE

($/KG)

($/KG LW)

5.50

7.10

9.95

3.32

lambs at Feilding

Angus sale gains 30% Alan Williams alan.williams@nzx.com

NEAR 30% gain in average prices on a much bigger yarding made South Canterbury farmer James Fraser a very happy vendor after his annual onfarm yearling bull sale. The Stern Angus Stud at Pleasant Point sold 43 out of the 45 bulls presented on Wednesday at an average price of $3650. That was $800 higher than last year when 26 bulls were sold. “It was a very good sale.” Top price was $6500 paid by the Kearny family from the Pig Route area of Central Otago, for Lot 2, which was also the top rated of the yearlings on the Self Replacing Index, an AngusNZ guide to profitability on a range of genetic measures. The bulls were sold specifically for mating with heifers and were selected from the Frasers’ herd of 270 yearling bulls for their genetic breed qualities in shorter gestation and easy calving. Most of the bulls were sold to farmers in South Canterbury, Otago, and Southland but eight were bought by a northern Hawke’s Bay station. Stern Angus offered more bulls to provide a chance for commercial cattle farmers to breed from more heifers this season, Fraser said. That was where the

HAPPY SELLER: James Fraser with the toppriced bull from his Stern Angus Stud at Pleasant Point.

national Angus herd population would be increased over the next few years to take advantage of good international beef prices though he was not expecting numbers to get back to previous peaks. Strong prices coincided with some older farmers seeing labour advantages in farming more cattle and fewer sheep, making for a win-win for the sector. There were still good earnings prospects for farmers with the beef price around the mid-point between the $4/kg level it had come from and the $6/kg level it had got to in the latest peak, Fraser said. The sale followed a record winter sale of rising two-year bulls.

He and wife Fiona were also selling other yearling and two-year bulls out of the paddock, with good demand for them as well. The stud’s primary sale was in the winter, with between 100 and 120 18-month animals being offered and in May about 150 in-calf heifers would be offered. Nearly half of Wednesday’s offering carried the Stern McCaw name developed by the family in recent years, though not the top-price bull. The stud had named earlier prominent bulls Crusader and Highlander and with former All Blacks captain Ritchie McCaw being “a South Canterbury boy” the rugby theme was carried on. The Whyte family’s Southern Polled Herefords

FINDING YOUR PERFECT RURAL PROPERTY

high $115.50-$120 $3.58-$3.70/kg 1-year Charolais-cross lights Good new season

business in Southland sold 156 two-year Hereford bulls onfarm at an average $2475 each last Monday. That was up “a wee bit” on last year, Jumbo Whyte, who was reasonably happy with the sale given the extra the business had had to pay for the livestock as calves, said. The Whytes’ bought their calves from around Southland then leased them out for breeding as yearling bulls before getting them back in good time to develop them for sale as two-yearolds. “They’re well bred, with good genetics and heaps of potential,” he said. The business had offered 160 bulls for sale, up 10 on last year, and only the last four lots were passed in.

heifers, 300-310kg, at Coalgate

Farmers have had enough rain for now WITH spring in full swing it is safe to say that for nearly the entire country it has been a very damp affair, which has caused a raft of issues but also some positive outcomes in the store cattle Suz Bremner market. AgriHQ Analyst Niwa records show that compared to historical averages Southland, Westland and South Canterbury are at relatively normal levels but the rest of the country is sitting very much in the blue, meaning that nearly all areas, apart from the tip of the East Coast, are at field capacity. As I write this, mid-week in Hawke’s Bay, the dark clouds have rolled in yet again and the heavens have opened, an all too familiar sight around much of the country in the past week and very unspring-like – or is it? A quick round of the store cattle sales this week has seen a very mixed market. Heavy cattle have been stickier, unless they had the breeding buyers were looking for like those at Stortford Lodge. That can be attributed not only to the wet conditions but also to buyers watching schedule movements and outlooks very closely and being uncomfortable with what they see. Some buyers turned their attention to the lighter alternatives found in the 1-year sections, in a bid to minimise damage to wet paddocks or focus on the longer-term outlooks. Again, selective bidding meant some lines went for a song as the wet conditions draw out a lot of small lines of bits and pieces and they really struggled to find audiences across the country. This time last year we had some real fire in the belly of the 1-year market as spring fever had well and truly hit and while we are seeing pockets of that fire, it is limited to the best of the bunch. Hopefully the weather will settle in the coming weeks though here in Hawke’s Bay show and anniversary week has been known to throw out four seasons in one day. suz.bremner@nzx.com

MORE FROM AGRIHQ: MARKET SNAPSHOT MARKET WRAP

P44 P45

WITH BAYLEYS COUNTRY MAGAZINE The Spring 2017 edition is out now, featuring a selection of the best farm, horticulture and lifestyle properties for sale in New Zealand.

MADE POSSIBLE

In this edition we take a look at the next wave of innovative technology breaking across the land and speak with a trio of young guns who are setting the pace for New Zealand agriculture. Plus the in’s and out’s of beekeeping for those that have made a tree change… Farming smarter, not harder

New Zealand farmers are experiencing the next wave of innovative technology breaking across the land.

The bees’ knees

Beehives hit the sweet spot for lifestyle block owners with the promise of a honey supply and pollination benefits.

FEATURING

140 FARM, HORTICULTURE AND LIFESTYLE PROPERTIES FOR SALE ISSUE 2 – 2017

Your rural property search starts here… Call 0800 BAYLEYS to request your free copy or view online. bayleys.co.nz/country LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

A WORLD OF POSSIBILITIES

RURAL REAL ESTATE BRAND

We’re very proud that The Farmers Weekly has been the country’s most read rural publication for more than a decade. Latest independent research says every week on average 117,000 farmers choose to read Farmers Weekly - that’s thousands more than any other rural newspaper in the whole country, and farmers read each issue for longer than any other title. That’s a powerful combination when you want real farmers seeing your advertisement. New this autumn is a special property pull-out in Farmers Weekly that will run through our March issues. Book a campaign of three or more advertisements in March and get a complimentary editorial on your property in one of our pull-out specials. Talk to your agent now and make sure you are in the paper that more farmers read. *conditions apply

Spring 2017 Property Pull-Out October 16, 2017

farmersweekly.co.nz

Buyers still lining up T

Alan Williams alan.williams@nzx.com

HE higher dairy payout gives some highly-indebted farmers a chance to make strategic decisions about their properties, Bayleys NZ country manager Duncan Ross says. Those with a portfolio of farms could be evaluating their profitability on a more sustainable payout footing. It might be time to decide “if it’s time to quit some of the debt and shore up the balance sheet”. The pressure is on from banks for debt-laden dairy farmers to repay some capital. For some farmers the lift in

payout could be a double-edged sword. “Assuming they can maintain their lower cost levels, great, but the increased profit levels will be sought for repayment on principal and that comes from after-tax income.” Outside of debt issues most farmers had been able to get their farm costs back to 2013 levels through reducing boughtin feed and, in some cases, reduced stocking rates. Total farm working expenses were going to be a more manageable 57% of total farm income this season, down from 65% last season and 95% in 2015-16. Fonterra has confirmed a $6.12/kg MS payout plus a 40c/ kg MS dividend but, in some cases, debt levels were up in the

$40 to $50/kg MS range, Ross said. Some farmers had taken on extra debt for working capital in the 2015-16 dairy downturn with overdrafts capitalised into loans.

There is a real silver lining in a decision to selldown and end up in a healthier equity position. The recent AgFirst WaikatoBay of Plenty farm cost survey had highlighted the importance of a $6-plus payout.

Survey compiler Phil Journeaux found the “model farm” being used had incurred an extra $126,000 of term debt. Ross, who joined Bayleys after being an executive director at accountancy group Korda Mentha and came from a sheep and beef farming background plus some dairying experience, said that had proved to be a significant figure for banks, which were now seeking to get funds repaid. They were struggling for deposits on a tight local market “further prompting them to try to recoup more principal from large rural borrowers in order to lend on to new borrowers”. Interest in buying dairy farms remained strong because of the confidence in the sector’s longterm fundamentals and there

were some strongly cashed-up buyers in the market. “There is a real silver lining in a decision to sell-down and end up in a healthier equity position. “This can enable you to focus on investing in the remaining farm asset and improving the operations you decide to retain.” One option was to sell the best farm in a portfolio, then reorganise the others. Despite wet conditions slowing the rural market in some regions, notably, Waikato, Rotorua and Manawatu, the spring sale season was shaping up well, Ross said. On some sales over the last few months there had been a significant number of underbidders who were still looking for farms.

bayleys.co.nz Contributor to realestate.co.nz

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Real Estate

THE NEW ZEALAND FARMERS WEEKLY – October 16, 2017

Positively traditional in Hawke’s Bay BRANCOTT Farm in Hawke’s Bay is known for the quality of its stock and has the scale as well as contour that lends itself to many farming operations. Now for sale, the 635ha property sits in the traditional summer rainfall belt beneath the Ruahine Ranges, west of Hastings, where it spills over mostly gently rolling contour that can be cultivated for greenfeed crops. As a breeding and finishing unit it runs a base breeding flock of 2800 Romney ewes and up to 190 Angus breeding cows while in the past it has run a successful Simmental stud. Paul Harper from PGG Wrightson Real Estate describes Brancott Farm as a wellmanaged, well-maintained farm in the

popular farming district of Waiwhare, with a high standard of farm infrastructure and economic scale. “It has an investment owner with a very good, conscientious manager and it has been farmed very well and presents itself in very good heart,” he says. “It’s quite a traditionally run farm in a positive sense, with Romney sheep and Angus cattle and more than capable of finishing stock.” In a typical year, 10-14ha is planted in fodder crops of oats, brassica and rape on the predominantly free-draining soils while balage is also made on the farm from surplus. The farm is made up of two titles with separate road access to each and together

they are subdivided into 111 paddocks including 20 that are deer fenced, which have all received regular fertiliser applications over the years. Much of the well-maintained access tracks have been metalled and a lane runs through the farm from front to back to provide great stock movement capability. A feature of the farm is the quality, natural water source from permanent streams which allows water reticulation around the farm and is complemented by dams. Natural shelter is another feature of the farm, enhancing stock health and survivability during lambing and calving. Between fertility and survivability, lambing percentages at docking sit around 133% and calving at 95%. Vital to the operation is a full range of farming infrastructure including a very

comfortable manager’s home with a fourbay enclosed garage and separate office complex. Two additional cottages plus a shepherd’s whare cater for more staff. The four-stand woolshed is attached to large covered yards incorporating a Combi clamp sheep handler plus a separate sheep weighing set-up. An older woolshed and yards add versatility on the eastern side of the farm while two sets of cattle yards, three haybarns, airstrip and sundry sheds complete a comprehensive list. Brancott Farm will be auctioned on November 16.

Viewed the farm at www.pggwre.co.nz ID#HAS26743 and for further information contact Paul Harper on 027 494 4854 or Doug Smith on 027 494 1839.

Brancott has an investment owner and has been run by a conscientious manager in a traditional manner.

Contributor to realestate.co.nz

Real Estate

THE NEW ZEALAND FARMERS WEEKLY – October 16, 2017

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

A good lane system provides access to 70 of the 100 paddocks on this 1278ha Taihape farm.

Naturally productive KAIANGAROA, a 1278ha trophy, breeding and finishing property for sale near Taihape is blessed with highly productive natural assets and has a long history of capital inputs. Jamie Proude from NZR says Kaiangaroa is held in high regard in a district that in turn is known throughout New Zealand for its productive ability. The property runs a high-performing breeding and finishing unit, with lambs finished to strong weights alongside a Friesian bull finishing system to regularly deliver more than 300kg of meat/ha in recent years. In the past, store lambs were bought in to finish and 300 dairy heifers were grazed.

“It’s a very attractive property that sits in a large basin and appears to roll out in front of you from the main homestead. “It has a really lovely balance between the breeding and finishing type country, enabling high stock performance to be achieved.” About 468ha of Kaiangaroa has been cultivated in recent years by the owners, enabling intensive livestock finishing on crops and specialist pastures. The balance is made up of medium hills and a smaller area of steeper country, including an attractive 75ha block of native bush. A good lane system provides access to about 70% of the farm’s 100 main paddocks, with 670ha deer fenced.

Stock water is all gravity-fed from the reliable Erewhon Rural Water scheme, which supplies 207 cubic metres a day. Location is a bonus as Kaiangaroa is just 6km from the River Valley Lodge on the Rangitikei River, which is the base for river rafting in the area and provides employment opportunities for the farm. One staff member works part time on the river and part time on the farm, which Proude says works well for both. Farm improvements have been developed to a high standard, especially the accommodation that extends to three houses including the 465 square metres homestead built in the 1980s complete with an indoor swimming pool, snooker

room and an all-weather tennis court. The home sits on an elevated site to capture stunning views over the farm. Peter Barnett of NZR is jointly marketing the property with Proude and he describes Kaiangaroa as a beautiful and wellappointed property. “Its natural and enhanced assets mean it is a highly-productive property as well, which provides versatility in the type of farming business that can be run there.” Tenders for the property close December 7.

Contact Peter Barnett on 027 482 6835 or Jamie Proude on 027 448 5162.

SOUTHERN WIDE REAL ESTATE SRM Realty Ltd, Licensed under the REAA 2008, 21 Macandrew Road, Dunedin 9054 p 03 466 3105 f 03 456 3105 e otago@southernwide.co.nz

DEADLINE TREATY

422 LEVELS VALLEY ROAD, TIMARU

WWW.SOUTHERNWIDE.CO.NZ 141 ROUND HILL ROAD, MAHENO, WAITAKI

• • • •

104.3ha 300 cows – 120 wintered on 46 A/S herringbone plus shed with feed systems Tidy bungalow plus staff quarters

Web Ref SWOR11020

• Irrigation from Kakanui River plus 50 shares in N.O.I.C Stage 2 • Supplier to Oceana Dairy Co • Low cost operation achieving excellent production.

For sale by Deadline Private Treaty closing 1pm Thursday 10th November 2017 at Southern Wide Real Estate Office, 225 Thames Street, Oamaru. (unless sold prior) Southern Wide SRM Realty Ltd Barry Meikle M: 027 436 5131

225 Thames Street, Oamaru p 03 434 7422 e oamaru@southernwide.co.nz

LK0089804©

RIVERSIDE DAIRY

240.1555 HA

A top finishing property in a top location between Pleasant Point and Timaru. Presently run as a sheep and beef finishing operation this property has in the past run deer and dairy grazing as well. Predominantly easy rolling contour and well subdivided into 45 paddocks with very good access via lanes and roads. Improvements include an excellent homestead with five bedrooms plus office, open plan living/dining/ kitchen area and separate lounge. Set in most attractive grounds. Two sets of cattle yards, older woolshed with good yards, five implement sheds/haybarns. A good level of inputs over past years ensure that very good levels of production can be achieved. FOR SALE BY DEADLINE PRIVATE TREATY CLOSING ON OR BEFORE 1.00PM 1ST NOVEMBER 2017 Web Ref SCAN00154

PAUL BROWN M: 027 432 6864 E: paul.brown@southernwide.co.nz

LK0089798

PRODUCTIVE LEVELS VALLEY PROPERTY

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Real Estate

THE NEW ZEALAND FARMERS WEEKLY – October 16, 2017

This farm has a 26-aside herringbone dairy.

Sharemilkers and first time buyers SHAREMILKERS and other first farm buyers should look at a 105ha dairy farm in Waikato where a 235-cow herd is milked once a day for a three-year average of 70,000kg milksolids without extra labour and fish for dinner is just 15 minutes away. Located near Ngatea, the farm has two titles on naturally flat, fertile land with extensive road

“It’s ideal for a first-farm buyer like a sharemilker who wants to run things themselves. “It has scale, a good-sized modern home and an ideal location to reach Auckland or the Coromandel Peninsula. “There are lots of activities within an hour’s drive and it’s just 15 minutes away from Kaiaua for fishing. Plus it has a really good

frontage and modern facilities. The dairy was built in 2005 and includes an in-shed feed system which gives it scope for future growth. Karl Davis from Bayleys says the farm owner is retiring and the farm is well set up for an enthusiastic first-farm buyer to take the helm and increase production.

primary school and high school nearby.” A central race leads from the 26-aside herringbone dairy to paddocks that had 14ha of chicory planted last season and produced 60 round bales of silage. Numerous other farm facilities abound, including implement sheds, hay barns and other sheds, plus several wintering

pads to stand the herd off paddocks. The farm will be auctioned on November 30.

To view the farm visit www.bayleys. co.nz/813444 and for further information contact Karl Davis on 027 496 4633 or Lee Carter on 027 696 5781.

Economic first farm automatic cup removers. Support sheds are ample on the farm, from the disused dairy used for calf rearing to a large implement shed, workshop, half-round barn and stand-off pad. Add to that a modern, threebedroom home with detached garage and workshop in a location close to the popular holiday hotspots on the Coromandel Peninsula and it adds up to a viable business investment as well as great lifestyle. Karl Davis from Bayleys says the farm is ideally located; close to Ngatea, Thames and Paeroa, central to both Hamilton and Auckland and

close to the Coromandel Peninsula. “It’s a good first farm for a sharemilker because it will be more affordable and it’s a really good economic unit. “Plus it’s in a really good location for high schools and close to Hauraki Plains College which has a good name.” The farm will be auctioned on November 9.

View the farm at www.bayleys. co.nz/813436 and for further information contact Karl Davis on 027 496 4633 or Lee Carter on 027 696 5781.

BUY THE BEST SOIL

DAIRY SCALE PLUS SOME

• Your opportunity to own this quality large scale dairy farm in the Northern Horowhenua. • Currently milking 600 Friesian cows. • Modern 60 bail rotary dairy with circular yard and adjacent 400 cow feed pad. • Two very good three bedroom family homes, one of which is on its own title. • Has produced up to 285,000 kgs/ms. • This is your chance to own this excellent dairy farm now for 1st June 2018 takeover. • Purchaser has first right of refusal to own the current dairy herd. • This property represents a great opportunity to buy some of the Manawatus’ best silt loam soils. • For sale at 9,500,000 land and buildings. • Act now and call Les to inspect.

Sallan Realty

This farm milks once a day.

Google ‘Sallan Realty’ Your Farm Sales Specialist

• Your opportunity to own this quality large scale dairy farm. • Very good layout with central laneways and currently milking 1100 cows. • Has produced up to 600,000 kgs/ms from the 425ha effective milking platform. • Facilities include a centrally located 60 bail rotary dairy with in bail feeding and a protrak system. • Five houses including a substantial main home set in its own private location. • Our vendors are looking to retire and have priced this property to sell at $16,250,000 land and buildings. • They would consider selling herd with takeover date to suit. • Act now and call Les to inspect.

LES CAIN 0274 420 582

Licensed Agent REAA 2008

LK0089410©

GREAT scale combines with a consistent production history and desirable location in the heart of the Hauraki Plains for a 98ha dairy farm that is for sale. The well-established Waikato unit spreads over flat contour in a good rectangular-shaped block with multiple access points off roads at the front and rear of the property. This is the farm’s third season milking once a day, producing up to 75,000kg milksolids from 230 cows on an 82ha milking platform. The herd follows lanes to the centrally-located 24-aside herringbone dairy with its 10

THE NEW ZEALAND FARMERS WEEKLY – October 16, 2017

Real Estate

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Cracker for first farm A REAL little cracker is how Jamie Proude from NZR describes an 85ha dairy farm at Owhango in the central North Island, which is for sale by auction. Owhango lies 15 minutes south of Taumaranui and Proude says a small number of dairy farms benefit from its reliable climatic conditions and soil types conducive to good production. “It’s one of the country’s hidden little secrets,” he says. “The country always looks well and the farms are held very tightly.” The farm has predominantly flat to gently rolling contour and the majority of the paddocks have been regrassed in modern species. Proude says pockets of native bush plus extensive planting of native trees add to the farm’s aesthetics. In the past four years the farm

has milked about 214 cows to average 93,000kg milksolids with the addition of an adjoining 20ha that is leased and might be available to a new owner. Last season 144t of palm kernel was added into the system to top up the herd when necessary while 350 bales of hay and balage were made on the farm. The farm is made up of three titles and spreads out over fertile, free-draining Owhango loamy soil types with a mix of flat to undulating contour. Forty main paddocks are linked by a network of well-formed and maintained pumice laneways plus an underpass that leads to the 22-aside herringbone dairy that was totally rebuilt in 2009 and features Qubik milking plant plus a yard for 250 cows. Adjacent to the dairy is an effluent pond cut out of rock,

with effluent then pumped to a travelling irrigator over 25ha. Water from a reliable spring-fed dam is pumped to two holding tanks then reticulated to numerous stock troughs throughout the property with more water available from a bore at the dairy. Summing up, Proude says “It’s a great first farm for some sharemilker moving up the ranks.” Apart from its productive ability, the farm overlooks the Whakapapa River, which, Proude says is renowned for its outstanding fishing while the adventure playground of Ruapehu is nearby. The farm will be auctioned on November 30.

To view the farm visit www.nzr/ nz ref RX3676749 and for further information contact Jamie Proude on 027 448 5162.

This farm has 85ha of flat to gently rolling land about 15 minutes from Taumarunui.

RURAL rural@pb.co.nz 0800 FOR LAND

Property Brokers Limited Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008

Dairy grazing or beef finishing

Central Plateau Dairy

WEB ID TPR57756 AUCTION NGAKURU 142 Dods Road VIEW Thursday 26 Oct 11.00 - 1.00pm AUCTION 2.00pm, Tue 14th Nov, 2017, (unless sold prior), This grazing property may be just what you have been Motion Entertainment Centre, Te Ngae Road, Rotorua looking for. Well located in the popular Ngakuru, Whirinaki Valley area. Currently operating as a dairy runoff, would also made a great beef finishing unit or first farm. 55 ha Contour approx. 50% mowable, 25% rolling, 25% steeper. Running 135 R1yr heifers plus 135 R2yr heifers, 3 also cutting up to 140 large round silage bales. Wintered up to 200 dairy cows in the past. Half round 2 three stand woolshed could convert to workshop, haybarn and cattle yards, deer fenced. Attractive fully Brett Ashworth renovated home. Mobile 021 0261 7488 bretta@pb.co.nz

WEB ID TPR57000 $12,700,000 WHAKAMARU 671 Sandel Road View By Appointment 414 hectares, 800 cows milked through a 48 aside herringbone, in shed meal feeders. Production average over 5 years is 293,000kg/ms. Contour is rolling, some hill with steep sidings, but ample hectares for silage and cropping. A picturesque self-contained, fertile farm with excellent fertiliser Paul O'Sullivan history. Mobile 027 496 4417 Come and see it! $30,000 per ha. For Sale $12,700,000 paulo@pb.co.nz + gst Land and buildings

+ GST (IF ANY)

Craig Marshall

Mobile 027 553 2274 craig@pb.co.nz

Fantastic property - great options

WEB ID TPR57955

NGAKURU 257 Galatos Road Fully deer fenced, well located quality grazing property. This very tidy farm is a credit to the owners, Top quality fencing, high fertility, quality pastures. Approximately 80 hectares of mowable/cropable contour, balance rolling to some steeper hill. Currently run as part of a larger property averaging 16 stock-units/ha wintered. 3,900 stock-units of profitable farming options.

useful property within easy commuting distance to Rotorua. Don't delay on this one.

The home is sited in a very private location with amazing views over the property and district. An attractive very

www.propertybrokers.co.nz

BY NEGOTIATION + GST (IF ANY)

VIEW 18 & 25 Oct 11.00 - 1.00pm

4 Brett Ashworth

Mobile 021 0261 7488 bretta@pb.co.nz

RURAL rural@pb.co.nz 0800 FOR LAND

Property Brokers Limited Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008

Ngaroma grazing

Ohaupo dairy

AUCTION

WEB ID TER57917 OTOROHANGA Aotearoa Road Located approx 57km south east of Te Awamutu, 50km south west of Putaruru and 64km east of Otorohanga, the contour here is rolling to medium hill with the odd steep sidling. There is all-weather access around the property via well constructed rotten rock tracks with metal being sourced from the quarry on the property. The farm is subdivided into approximately 20 paddocks with well maintained conventional and electric fencing. Soil type is Maeroa Ash. A reliable, spring sourced water supply is pumped to a manicon tank via a multi stage pump which is then gravity fed around the farm.

AUCTION

AUCTION VIEW Wednesday 25 Oct 1.00 - 2.00pm AUCTION 11.00am, Fri 17th Nov, 2017, (unless sold prior), Te Awamutu Rugby Club 420 Albert Park Drive Te Awamutu

Doug Wakelin

Mobile 027 321 1343 dougw@pb.co.nz

Once in 110 year opportunity - Braeview

WEB ID TER58101 OHAUPO 342 Jary Road This 80.5927 ha property is conveniently located approx 11km north of Te Awamutu and 25km south of the Hamilton CBD. Fenced into 56 paddocks, all of which are accessed off a race system. Contour is approximately 90% flat with a small rolling area along the road frontage. Soil type is consolidated peat with rolling area being Ash over Clay. Water is supplied from a bore with a backup system available via the Pukerimu Water Scheme. Structural improvements include a 24 ASHB with ACRs, 250 cow feed pad, PKE bin, 6 bay round barn and a 4 bay calf shed and a tidy 4 bedroom home with dble garage

www.propertybrokers.co.nz

3+ Doug Wakelin

Mobile 027 321 1343 dougw@pb.co.nz

Dairy with location - 100 ha*

AUCTION

WEB ID WR57738 CENTRAL HAWKES BAY 512 Nicholls Road View By Appointment AUCTION 3.00pm, Thu 23rd Nov, 2017 Braeview is on the market after more than 110 years. 283 ha within minutes of Waipukurau. Undulating to easy contour with parts medium. Good buildings and improvements; comfortable three bedroom family home, 4 stand woolshed, covered yards, Bevan Pickett excellent cattle yards. Subdivided into 27 main Mobile 027 220 2766 paddocks. Office 06 928 0520 Long fertiliser history and pasture renewal programme. bevanp@pb.co.nz Reliable stock water. Pat Portas Currently finishing large cattle. FEMP favourable. Mobile 027 447 0612 Start your legacy. Opportunities like this are rare, act Office 06 928 0521 now. Home 06 855 8330 patp@pb.co.nz Adjoining 370 ha also available for sale.

AUCTION VIEW Tuesday 24 Oct 1.00 - 2.00pm AUCTION 11.00am, Fri 17th Nov, 2017, (unless sold prior), Te Awamutu Rugby Club 420 Albert Park Drive Te Awamutu

TENDER

AUCTION

3 2

WEB ID PR56754 PAHIATUA 418 Scarborough Road This is a well presented 100 ha* OCD supplying dairy farm 7km south west of Pahiatua, within an easy commute to Palmerston North. With 95 ha effective, 45 main paddocks & peak milking 270 cows for a 3 year average of 122,500 kgMS this property is well worth inspection. Farm improvements include an 18 ASHB cowshed with inshed feeding system, 6 bay implement shed including lock up workshop, PKE shed, 5 bay calf shed & other utility sheds plus cattleyards. There is a seasonal farm irrigation agreement through K-Line system applied to the platform. The modern 4 bedroom home completes the package.

TENDER View By Appointment TENDER closes Thursday 2nd November, 2017 at 2.00pm, Property Brokers, 129 Main Street Pahiatua

Jared Brock

Mobile 027 449 5496 Office 06 376 4823

Phil Wilson

Mobile 021 518 660 Office 06 376 5478

John Arends

Mobile 027 444 7380 Office 06 376 4364

RURAL rural@pb.co.nz 0800 FOR LAND

Property Brokers Limited Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008

Lochiel 637 ha

WEB ID PR58165

PONGAROA 1530 Waihi Valley Road Property Brokers are privileged to offer one of the best contoured properties in the Tararua to the market. Lochiel is centrally located 7km west of the township of Pongaroa and under 45 minutes drive to both Pahiatua and Dannevirke.

Quality infrastructure includes reticulated water, laneways, 5 stand woolshed (1500npc), airstrip, cattleyards, ample shedding and three generous homes.

DEADLINE SALE

VIEW By Appointment DEADLINE SALE closes Thursday 16th November, 2017 at 2.00pm, (unless sold prior)

Lochiel's development of pastures and fertiliser history is second to none and is sure to impress.

4 Jared Brock

The 570 ha of effective area featuring over 300 ha of cultivatable land has been intensively developed to suit most farming practices.

Mobile 027 449 5496 Office 06 376 4823 Home 06 376 6341 jared@pb.co.nz

17.57 ha lifestyle

2 1

Versatility highbank - 161 ha

WEB ID FL58074 TENDER FEILDING 2351 State Highway 3 VIEW 22 & 29 Oct 1.00 - 2.30pm TENDER closes Wednesday 8th November, 2017 at 1.00pm, This is your chance to secure an extremely tidy lifestyle (unless sold prior) property in an outstanding location. The land is divided into ten well fenced paddocks with two dams, bore water and a central race. The property offers many extras, including a woolshed, barn, sheep and cattle yards and forestry block (approx. 4 ha of millable trees). The land is in three titles, 6.17 ha, 5.75 ha and 5.65 ha 4+ with a total RV $1,030,000. The owners would prefer to sell as one but there may be an opportunity to purchase 1+ separately. A versatile property suitable to all animal Lianne Masters types. Mobile 027 288 1801 Office 06 323 1520 lianne@pb.co.nz

www.propertybrokers.co.nz

WEB ID AR58085 DEADLINE SALE METHVEN 247 Woods Road View By Appointment DEADLINE SALE closes Friday 24th November, 2017 at Every now and then something special arrives on the 4.00pm, (unless sold prior) market and here it is. If you are looking for a property that has true diversity look no further. Special features of this property are endless but here is a few: - Quality arable soils - Several ultra high towers - Excellent lanes system - Pivot irrigation - Excellent fertility Chris Murdoch - Well sub-divided and troughed Mobile 0274 342 545 - Two homes and good shedding. Office 03 307 9191 Home 03 307 2940 chris@pb.co.nz

THE NEW ZEALAND FARMERS WEEKLY – October 16, 2017

Real Estate

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

This farm has a feed pad with capacity for 400 cows.

Ready to reap rewards THE farm has been regrassed and the major infrastructure is in place for someone to take over and reap the rewards of a 135ha dairy farm for sale near Thames. This season the large-scale property is on target to reach 140,000kg milksolids from 450 cows through a 40-aside herringbone dairy that has milked only one full season. The location on a no exit road in the rural community of Matatoki and just 11km from Thames and

the gateway to the Coromandel Peninsula gives the farm’s new owner the combination of a goodsized dairy farm with an enviable lifestyle of cities and beaches within easy reach. “It’s got some scale to it and the farmer has done a lot of work on regrassing,” says Karl Davis from Bayleys. “He has completed extensive drainage improvements and a comprehensive regrassing and fertiliser programme of both the

farm and the 18ha stopbank lease. “The farm is set to perform and ready to go, with all the major work done. Ideally it’s a good second farm for someone, with all the big jobs done so they can focus on production.” Besides a new dairy, the farm has a new feed pad with the capacity for 400 cows that has been used to feed supplements that amounted to 50t of maize and 90t of palm kernel last season. Further supplements were

produced on the farm, including 15ha of chicory last season and then 10ha of chicory this season as well as 5ha of turnips. Another recent addition to infrastructure is a 2.5 million litre above-ground Klip tank for effluent, collected after it has been through a weeping wall. Two large implement sheds, hay barn, large fertiliser/feed bunker and a quality set of yards put the farm in a good position for the next owner to focus on the herd

and production. As well as the three-bedroom weatherboard home, the farm has a 12-month-old removable cottage for staff. The farm will be auctioned on November 16.

To view the farm visit www.bayleys. co.nz/813420 and for further information contact Karl Davis on 0508 838383 or Lee Carter on 027 696 5781.

RURAL rural@pb.co.nz Office 0800 FOR LAND

Property Brokers Limited Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008

Maori Road

MT Nessing

OPEN FARM

WEB ID TMR57122 DEADLINE SALE WAIMATE Maori Road View By Appointment DEADLINE SALE closes Thursday 26th October, 2017 at A prime chance to secure a 280.2546 hectares of land in the low cost MGI Irrigation Scheme. This property has 4.00pm, (unless sold prior) 94 hectares under border-dyke irrigation and shares for spray irrigation on the balance. In many titles and with lots of options. This could be one of the last properties to convert to dairying. Currently run as sheep, cropping and dairy support. A great farm with minimal buildings and a real opportunity to make this your own. Enquire Michael Richardson today! Mobile 027 228 7027 Office 03 687 7145 michael@pb.co.nz

www.propertybrokers.co.nz

WEB ID TMR57137 DEADLINE SALE ALBURY 444 Mt Nessing Road VIEW Tuesday 17 Oct 1.00 - 3.00pm DEADLINE SALE closes Friday 10th November, 2017 at • 243.8659 hectares, great soils 4.00pm, (unless sold prior) • Central cattle yards, all-weather lane-ways • Good buildings and infrastructure • Flat to easy rolling contour This property will attract a wide variety of purchasers with 243.8659 hectares of versatile land suitable for many types of farming from mixed sheep and beef to cropping. The property has good soils, buildings and 4 Michael Richardson infrastructure along with a great central location just Mobile 027 228 7027 20km to Fairlie and 51km to Timaru. A very desirable Office 03 687 7145 1 property! michael@pb.co.nz

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Real Estate

THE NEW ZEALAND FARMERS WEEKLY – October 16, 2017

A-grade award winner trimmed shelter belts for the herd. Water is sourced from three wells plus Central Plains Water and though the farm can irrigate up to 150 days, it is usually between 120 and 130 days. At the peak of the season the farm milks 700 cows and the herd includes 280 cows on a winter contract that supplies Synlait for 91 days and achieves a premium of $3.75/kg on top of the seasonal prices. That contract is available to a new owner for the next two years. Cows are milked through the 44-bail rotary Read dairy that was built in 1999 with auto drafting, auto teat sprayer and automatic bail retention and cup removers, upgraded cooling system and a yard for 600 cows. Milking is done in two herds and the fully-automated dairy requires only one staff member to operate it. Outside, three silos and an automated grain crusher with sensors and shutoff are set up for feeding while nearby is the 400cow feed pad. Complementing all this is a full array of sheds for calf rearing, implements, hay, workshop and office plus the three modern homes that are presented in immaculate condition. The main homestead is an immaculate four-bedroom Stonewood family home set in beautifully established gardens with a barn alongside and an all-weather horse arena. Also available is an irrigated 44ha support block nearby. The farm has a deadline sale of November 9.

AN EYE to the future six years ago now enables a 231ha Canterbury dairy farm to meet today’s land and water requirements while maintaining a high level of production. The Bankside farm uses 220ha to produce 420,000kg milksolids (MS) a year including calf milk and winter milk to equal 1900kg MS/ha. At the same time, the revised fertiliser and pasture renewal programme that began six years ago has led to excellent root structure, moisture retention and pasture production, winning it the Ballance Agri-Nutrients soil management award in 2016.

Combined with ongoing maintenance and repairs, the result is an immaculately kept farm. Ben Turner Bayleys Ben Turner of Bayleys says the farm’s focus has been on stock and soil health while running the property in a sustainable manner and balancing nutrition for both animals and soil. Combined with ongoing maintenance and repairs, the result is an immaculately kept farm, he says. “It’s already operating well under the baseline of 42kg of nitrogen per hectare while maintaining a high level of production, which means the property already meets the requirements of the land and water strategy and is firmly positioned for a great future underpinned by the A-grade audit report for its farm environmental plan.” Irrigation is applied via Briggs 250 Rotorainers as the farm has retained its

The property can be viewed at www.bayleys. co.nz/555638 and for further information contact Ben Turner on 027 530 1400 or Mike Adamson on 027 221 1909.

DELLARANDALL.CO.NZ

2 8 F L A X M E R E S T R E E T, W A I K A N A E B E A C H , K A P I T I C O A S T

Elegant Country Living Minutes from Waikanae’s beaches, river, cafes, trains and expressway, this immaculately presented 1900’s villa offers delightful country living. Set on around two acres of established gardens and trees, this light-filled and private home features stylish, spacious and comfortable living inside and out. With three to four bedrooms, two bathrooms, spa area, wrap-around deck and custom-built triple garage with loft studio, this is the perfect place to entertain, unwind and watch the sun set after long summer days enjoying all that Waikanae has to offer. Character properties of this quality are rare in Kapiti - don’t miss the opportunity to view.

Deadline Sale: closing 1pm Tuesday 07 November 2017 View: www.dellarandall.co.nz/properties F LO O R P L A N S

VIDEO

O P E N H O M E : S U N D AY 2 - 2 : 3 0

0800 22 22 33 DEL L A R EA LT Y GR O UP L I MI TE D L I C E N S E D UN D E R R E AA 20 0 8

This farm comes with a Synlait supply contract that pays $3.75/kg MS above the season price for 91 days.

Real Estate

THE NEW ZEALAND FARMERS WEEKLY – October 16, 2017

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Surf, fish and farm ABOUT a kilometre of stunning coastal surf and another 1.6km of harbour frontage is the crowning glory of a 767ha breeding property that is for sale north of Raglan. From a farming perspective, it’s a property with scale, divided into four blocks with three of them set up with their own woolshed, cattle yards and sheep yards, plus the ability to grow some crop and graze dairy stock. That kind of scale and scope is a rarity in the Waikato market, Mark Dawe from Bayleys says, giving it the ability to employ staff or step into farm ownership, as well as the options of five titles. Combining those aspects with its aesthetic appeal produces the complete package, he says. The property is located at Te Akau, just north of Raglan, where it runs a largely cattle breeding operation with some sheep and in recent years it has grown 12ha of lucerne.

Historically, the land has been sheep farming and hence the woolsheds on three blocks, which enable those blocks to be farmed independently and makes it ideal for handling stock. “Ideally, it is a breeding unit and in that area there’s an influence of dairy grazing, with a reasonable amount of country on the property that you could use for dairy grazing. “You could also add tourism and it has aspects that most operators don’t get. “It’s an economic farm based on its location and topography, with the coastal and harbour appeal which are highly sought after and desirable, which makes it hard to quantify its value.” The farm’s owners have an access track leading through the farm to the ocean where they surf, fish and swim and it’s the type of beach where surfcasting off the beach catches a meal.

“It’s good surfing and it’s that untamed West Coast which is pretty stunning.” The two substantial fourbedroom Lockwood homes both have swimming pools and one even has a clay tennis court. A third home is a cottage with three bedrooms that is ideal for farm accommodation. Dawe says the property is large enough for an investor to employ staff and multiple titles could attract multiple investors. It could equally be added to an existing farm portfolio or provide a step into farm ownership. Tenders for the property close on November 16.

As well as cattle and sheep this farm has potential with coast and harbour frontages to add a tourism venture.

Viewed the farm at www.bayleys. co.nz/813366 and for further information contact Mark Dawe on 027 507 0861 or Peter Kelly on 027 432 4278.

FOR SALE

MANGAKAWAKAWA FOREST JACENTHO ROAD, Kaitaia

LONG LEASE INDUSTRIAL - 9.2% YIELD ON OFFER 3 STRATFORD STREET, Gore

FAR NORTH QUALITY FORESTRY! Mangakawakawa Forest offers purchasers a superb opportunity to secure a quality near mature forest. The current owners have tended the block to a high standard with tracking throughout and significant portions able to be ground base harvested.

MAINLAND MINERALS (SOUTHERN) AS TENANT EIGHT YEAR LEASE + 244.8 hectares of Pinus Radiata + Majority 23 years old crop + Pruned and Thinned + Close to Domestic Processors + Inventory Available

Call today for a confidential discussion or information memorandum.

CBRE is pleased to offer this highly functional industrial property occupied by Mainland Minerals, an iconic Southland business with a long trading history, and a new eight year lease with rights of renewal. The property will appeal to passive property investors looking for a high yielding investment that outperforms bank deposit rates and has built-in rent growth linked to CPI movement.

+ 2,836sqm approximately of buildings + Net rental of $90,000 plus GST p.a. + Built-in rental growth + Two six-year Rights of Renewal + Expansion opportunity + Seismic report available FOR SALE BY NEGOTIATION $975,000 (plus GST)

DEADLINE TENDER Friday 1 December 2017 at 4.00pm WARWICK SEARLE 021 362 778

+ 4,554sqm of land in five titles

SCOTT BENTLEY scott.bentley@cbre.co.nz

JEREMY KEATING 021 461 210

027 203 3310

www.propertyconnector.co.nz/210850Q47

www.cbre.co.nz/200583Q37 CBRE (Agency) Limited, Licensed Real Estate Agent (REAA 2008)

CBRE (Agency) Limited, Licensed Real Estate Agent (REAA 2008)

434 hectares Tender (unless sold prior) www.nzr.nz Ref: RX1267861

HARRIS ROAD, RAETIHI

1265 Roberts Line, Feilding - Palmerston North Located on a quiet no exit road, the versatile Te Arakura and Karapoti sandy loam soils, combined with an excellent fertiliser and pasture renewal program, mean this place is really pumping. Used to winter dairy cows, graze heifers and grow maize, the good stock water, central yards and woolshed combine to ensure a wide range of land-use options. Its close proximity to both Palmerston North and Feilding offers potential for subdivision, while its slightly elevated position provides a great place to build with a wide outlook over surrounding countryside. Only for sale due to business growth.

71 hectares Tender nzr.nz/RX1262516 Tender Closes 3pm Thu 9 Nov 2017, NZR, 20 Kimbolton Road, Feilding Peter Barnett AREINZ 027 482 6835 | peter@nzr.nz NZR Limited | Licensed REAA 2008

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LIS TI N G

Tender (unless sold prior) Closes 4pm, 9th Nov 2017, 1 Goldfinch Street, Ohakune Jamie Proude AREINZ 06 385 4466 | 027 448 5162 jamie@nzr.nz NZR Central Ltd | Licensed REAA 2008

QUALITY LAND HANDY TO THE CITY

LIS TI N G

A BLUE-CHIP PROPERTY - 176 Pukerimu Road, Maxwell A rare opportunity to purchase a Blue Chip property, situated in the highly sought after Maxwell region, with many land uses including dairy conversion and cropping. Currently farmed as an intensive fattening unit, achieving impressive weights from all classes of livestock, in conjunction with an extensive cropping regime. The superb mix of contour includes an estimated 245 hectares of flat and 40 hectares of gentle rolling gullies, with the balance easy hill and a few steeper sidings. The property features an excellent reticulated water scheme throughout, a history of high fertiliser inputs and is well subdivided by excellent conventional fencing. Purchasing options available.

36 hectares Auction www.nzr.nz Ref:RX1268895

An opportunity seldom available is this 36-hectare bare land title that boasts enormous Mount Ruapehu views along with wonderful building sites and situated in a private, quiet location Auction (unless sold prior) 10am, 30th Nov 2017, only 12km to from Ohakune and 8km from Raetihi. 1 Goldfinch Street, Ohakune This diverse property is currently used as part of the ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jamie Proude or Juliane Brand intensive livestock fattening unit, along with a past cropping 027 448 5162 | 027 515 5581 regime. Further possibilities for the property would include jamie@nzr.nz | Juliane@nzr.nz dairy support, supplementary fodder and horticulture crops, or NZR Central Limited | Licensed REAA 2008 the development of the ultimate lifestyle block.

227 Waihuka Road, Waimiha, Taumarunui Waihuka Road presents the opportunity to purchase a quality and well-presented 442-hectare breeding/finishing farm. It is evident that significant capital, management and development has transformed this farm into what it is today. Emphasis has been placed on pasture regeneration, fertility and fencing. Combination of all this is in the outstanding production figures. A tidy 4-bedroom home is situated on an elevated site overlooking the farm plus another second dwelling is a tidy 2bedroom cottage. Other Infrastructure includes a 3-stand woolshed and sheep yards, cattle yards with loadout off a metal road and implement shed / workshop.

442 hectares Offers Invited www.nzr.nz Ref: RX1275838 Closing date for offers: 4pm, 23rd Nov 2017, 1 Goldfinch Street, Ohakune Jamie Proude AREINZ 06 385 4466 | 027 448 5162 jamie@nzr.nz NZR Central Ltd | Licensed REAA 2008

N O TI CE FIN AL

PATAKANUI - EARLY FINISHING COUNTRY, IMPECCABLY MAINTAINED 847 Lake Ferry Road, Martinborough Patakanui is an extremely tidy 306-hectare sheep and beef finishing unit, which has been very well farmed, with an excellent fertiliser history. Patakanui is strong, early country and is a very well balanced unit with around 160 hectares of flat to rolling cultivatable land, 36 hectares of medium hill and 110 hectares of steeper hill country (including 11 hectares of well-tendered pines). Re-grassing has been a feature every year and fertiliser is applied as per recommendation. The farm is well fenced into 30 paddocks (all with good water) of which 90% are 8 wire post and batten, including the central laneway. Currently the farm is running 1400 ewes, lambing from 1st August. Last year there were 4,000 lambs finished on Chicory over the summer through to June and over 200 rising two-year-old steers were finished during the spring - summer months on cell grazing blocks. Patakanui is renowned for consistently producing high quality stock. Patakanui has a very tidy four stand woolshed and covered yards (NP 900), a large set of cattle yards and two implement sheds/workshop.

306 hectares Tender www.nzr.nz Ref: RX1252515 Tender Closes 4pm, 26th Oct 2017 NZR Real Estate Ltd, 1st Floor, 16 Perry St, Masterton 5810 Blair Stevens AREINZ 027 527 7007 | blair@nzr.nz NZR Real Estate Limited | Licensed REAA 2008

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LIS TI N G

This one will be hard to beat.

QUALITY OWHANGO DAIRY UNIT 2646 State Highway 4, Taumarunui A real little cracker, this attractive dairy unit located in the sought after Owhango area which is renowned for impressive consistent production figures from the regions reliable climatic conditions. The 85.2 Ha currently producing 93,000 kg/MS over the last 4 years average with the addition of an extra 20 Ha neighboring lease title adjoining. Improvements include a quality 3-bedroom home which has seen a complete refurbishment in 2008. 22 aside Herringbone shed with a 250-cow yard plus a 4-bay calf rearing shed. An excellent reticulated spring fed water system provides quality water year-round to troughs throughout the farm. Subdivision consists of 58 main paddocks linked by a network of well-formed and maintained pumice raceways and an underpass. Held in 3 titles, the property features fertile, free draining Owhango Loamy soil types with a mix of flat to undulating contour. Pockets of native trees and extensive plantings around water-ways all add to the attractive appeal of this property. Overlooking the Whakapapa river renowned as an outstanding fishing spot plus its close proximity to the adventures of the Ruapehu region make this farm well worth considering.

85.2 Hectares Auction (unless sold prior) www.nzr.nz Ref:RX1259163 Auction - 2pm, 30th November 2017 Taumarunui Golf Course, Golf Course Road, Taumarunui Jamie Proude AREINZ 06 385 4466 | 027 448 5162 jamie@nzr.nz NZR Central Limited | Licensed REAA 2008

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Real Estate

THE NEW ZEALAND FARMERS WEEKLY – October 16, 2017

Randolp Downs runs Merino ewes and hoggets for their fine wool.

Successful wool unit RANDOLPH Downs in North Canterbury has long been known as a superior breeding and finishing farm and today uses its scale and contour for a successful Merino wool operation destined for the New Zealand outdoor clothing company, Icebreaker. The 843ha property is for sale, along with its Merino flock at valuation and Peter Crean from PGG Wrightson Real Estate says it is envisaged a new owner could continue the annual Icebreaker contracts. “The property has a good name from way back and traditionally it was Corriedales before changing to Merinos but there’s no reason why you couldn’t farm anything there. “They finish all the progeny most years and it has scale as

well as an even balance of flat to medium hill country.” Merinos have been farmed for the past five years, focusing on fine wool production and steadily increasing numbers so that it now carries 3400 mixed-age Merino ewes and 1200 Merino hoggets, as well as 190 R1 and R2 steers to finish. The Merinos achieve lambing percentages between 110% and 120% through August and September, with the older ewes mated to terminal sires and the balance to Merino rams. The ewes average 6kg of wool at about 19 microns and all the suitable wool is contracted to Icebreaker for good returns. Good farm tracks access the entire property, which is subdivided into 50 paddocks

with good quality post and wire or netting fencing. About 25ha is deer fenced into two paddocks and most paddocks throughout the farm have troughs that are fed from a reticulated county water scheme. “The farm has very good infrastructure and one of the most outstanding features is the lovely big homestead in a sheltered setting.” In excess of 300 square metres, the four-bedroom homestead opens out to a wooden deck and entertainment area set in large, beautifully-manicured gardens. The property is well equipped with farm facilities, from a fourstand, raised-board woolshed and covered yards to an older three-stand woolshed and yards, implement shed, several hay

sheds, two sets of cattle yards and two further sets of sheep yards towards the centre and back of the property. Amberley township is just 10km from Randolph Downs while Christchurch is 55km, which makes it an ideal location for a property of its size, Crean says.

Randolph Downs has a deadline sale of November 9.

Randolph Downs can be viewed at www.pggwre.co.nz CHR26728 and for further information contact Peter Crean on 03 341 4315 or 027 434 4002

For Sale NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

North Otago Fuchsia Creek 169.4 Hectares Deadline Sale Closing 4pm, Wednesday 15 November 2017

Contact Barry Kingan 027 229 5046 Ophia Farm. An attractive property approximately 25km west of Oamaru, gentle to rolling land with a portion of mid to steeper faces and Claremont Silt loam soils. Recently renovated three bedroom home, 4-stand raised board woolshed, covered yards with 800 night pen. Lockable utility, numerous implement sheds, bulk fertiliser bin and well situated cattle yards. There are four units of water from the Dunrobin Water Scheme. Extensive shelter and ornamental plantings. (unless sold by prior) | Property ID DU2538

North Otago Northland | Pukehuia 348.7 Hectares Outstanding Finishing Property. 348 hectares in two titles, presently farming and finishing 750 bulls. Fenced, raced and water to 105 paddocks. Achieving in excess of $1,000 per hectare gross over the last three years. Regular fertiliser applications, soil tests tell the story. Improvements include a 4-stand woolshed and covered yards, two sets of cattle yards, two implement sheds, shearers quarters, airstrip and bin. Complementing the property is a pristine three bedroom bungalow which has been fully renovated, new carpet and paint, open-plan living, a fully fenced inground pool. Succeeding here should be easy due to the hard work, foresight and planning by our Vendors. | Property ID WG1033

Licensed under REAA 2008

Tender

Duntroon 82.6 Hectares

Closing 3pm, Thursday 30 November 2017 (unless sold by private treaty)

Deadline Sale

Inspection

Contact

By appointment

Contact Tom Hackett 027 498 2908 Brian Marsh 027 498 3809

Closing 4pm, Thursday 2 November 2017

Merv Dalziel 027 439 5823 Waikaura Downs. Finishing or run-off property, 50% flat with the remainder rolling with some steeper faces. 70 hectares of reliable irrigation, consisting of 30 hectares borderdyke and 40 hectares K-line. Four bedroom renovated homestead, 4-bay implement shed/haybarn, 3-stand raised board woolshed, with sheep yards and 500 night pens, cattle yards with crush. Productive soils with good fertiliser history producing strong pastures and heavy crops. (unless sold by prior) | Property ID DU2533

THE NEW ZEALAND FARMERS WEEKLY – October 16, 2017

Real Estate

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

A consistent producer This farm has a 36-aside herringbone with in-shed meal feeders. A 196 hectare dairy farm for sale near Te Awamutu has established itself as a consistent producer and has the support area to grow out its replacement stock. On a milking platform of about 150ha the farm milks 400 cows and has produced a three-year average production of 160,000kg milksolids while grazing all the replacement stock on the remainder of the farm. The Happy Valley farm is located near Korakonui, between

Te Awamutu and Otorohanga, which Stuart Gudsell from Bayleys describes as a strong dairying district with a close community. “The farm owners are heavily involved in the community and it’s a very strong community centred on the school. Korakonui Primary School is very highly regarded and Te Awamutu is only about 24km away so the farm is in a very good location. “It’s really ideal for a family partnership or for someone

From the dairy, good all-weather access leads to the 78 paddocks on the milking platform, with nine paddocks beyond that on the support area. A bonus for the farm is its own quarry for material to spread on the lanes. About 90ha of the milking platform is fairly flat land that merges into 60ha of medium hill country while the support area is medium to medium-steep contour and includes about half a hectare of young pine trees.

stepping up to their next farm. That support area gives it versatility and the infrastructure is all sound and tidy.” The 36-aside herringbone dairy is only 12 years old and has in-shed meal feeders with a silo beside it to store meal. A relatively low-input system has been in place where meal is fed in the shed in the early part of the season and maize as well as grass silage is fed to the cows later in the season.

Comfortable accommodation is provided by three large homes, all with open-plan design including the main dwelling that was built in 2010. The farm will be auctioned on November 2.

To view the farm visit www.bayleys. co.nz/813326 and for further information contact Stuart Gudsell on 021 951 737 or Sharon Evans on 027 235 4771.

109 HA DAIRY FARM WHAKATANE 236 DOWNARD ROAD, WHAKATANE 109 Ha Dairy Farm. Approx. 79 Ha flat, 30 Ha rolling to med. (100 Ha effective) The farm is well laid out, well raced, approximately 52 paddocks. An on-farm Pumice Pit aids track maintenance. 30 aside herringbone cowshed. Cup removers, two vacuum pumps, pulsators with electronic control unit, electronic drafting gate. Infrastructure includes good range of Sheds, HerdHomes, large volume supplement storage bunkers, airstrip plus three dwellings available for owners and staff. The property is well located in the Eastern Bay of Plenty with the main centre of Whakatane just 16 Km away. Excellent local schools, great climate, all services available and a popular district to live in. This is a well set up farming business and retiring vendors are keen to move on. Included in the price; Land and Buildings. 109.1623 Ha (269.74 acres). Price Plus GST (may be zero rated) . Herd and Specialist farm machinery available as extras, by negotiation. Subject to issue of new title for boundary adjusted area. Council Consent granted. Title Expected prior to settlement. Contact Agents for IM and appointment to view or visit one of the advertised open days: Tues 24th October, Fri 27th October & Wed 1st November from 10.30am-1pm.

PRICE: $4,700,000 plus GST VIEW ONLINE: professionalswhakatane.co.nz PWK00985

Maurice Butler 0274 514 395 maurice@professionalswhakatane.co.nz

@RuralRealEstateWhakatane

07 307 0165 professionalswhakatane.co.nz Licensed under REAA 2008

New Zealand’s leading rural real estate company RURAL

LIFESTYLE

RESIDENTIAL

NEW LISTING

Large Tapora Dairy Farm • 201ha of predominantly flat to easy contour in two titles. • 60 bail rotary cowshed, 600 cow yard, adjacent 350 cow feed pad • Excellent support sheds, calf rearing facilities • Tidy main home with swimming pool, second three bedroom home • Private harbour access to sandy beach and boat access • Significant area identified for avocado planting and production pggwre.co.nz/WEL26632

NEW LISTING

Tapora $5.95M Plus GST (if any)

Scott Tapp B 09 423 9717 M 021 418 161 scott.tapp@pggwrightson.co.nz

Ideally Located Mangawhai Dairy Unit 130.82ha predominantly flat to easy contour dairy farm. 30 ASHB cowshed with 330 cow yard. Good raceways throughout farm with good drainage, soil types and fertility. Two bores onsite, concrete feed pad and two concrete bunkers. Tidy four bedroom, recently renovated kitchen, second home built in 2013, tidy modern three bedroom home. 42.3ha support property also available for purchase with dairy farm, located within 4km. Located in the popular Te Arai area with the beach only 4km away, with the heart of Mangawhai Village 5km away. pggwre.co.nz/WEL26255

Kaituna Dairy Lands • 134.3 hectares in three titles • 30 ASHB shed, milking 400 cows • Two x 14 tonne silo's • In-shed meal feeder system • 1.87 million litre Kliptank effluent tank • Se-tech inline drench system • Totally renovated four bedroom modern home, second house with sleepout and multiple outbuildings • Phone or email for a full Information Memorandum: dmclaren@pggwrightson.co.nz 4 pggwre.co.nz/TEP26691

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

Te Arai / Mangawhai SALE BY SET DATE Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 4.00pm, Thursday, 23 November

Scott Tapp B 09 423 9717 M 021 418 161 scott.tapp@pggwrightson.co.nz

Te Puke AUCTION (Unless Sold Prior) 11.00am, Thursday, 23 November Paengaroa Community Hall, Paengaroa

David McLaren M 027 223 3366 Scott Cameron M 027 455 5768

pggwre.co.nz

New Zealand’s leading rural real estate company RURAL

LIFESTYLE

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OPEN DAY

Fertile Productive Plains - 61.49 Hectares 313 Hydro Road • 12 ASHB dairy, in-shed feed system, 200 cow yard • Production: 87,200kgMS 2015/16, 87,000kgMS 2016/17 • Three bay implement shed, two bay implement shed, 1600 bale barn • Whey irrigated • Three bedroom family home and farm cottage • Top quality soils, with possible horticulture potential • Centrally located on the fertile Rangitaiki Plains 3

pggwre.co.nz/WHK26783

Edgecumbe TENDER Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold By Private Treaty) Closes 4.00pm, Friday, 17 November OPEN DAY 11.00-12.00pm, Wednesday, 18 & 25 October Phil Goldsmith B 07 307 1620 M 027 494 1844 pgoldsmith@pggwrightson.co.nz

FINAL NOTICE

Prime Finishing - 242.29 Hectares 707 Pikowai Road • Good contour property with around 15ha suitable for hay or silage • Excellent quality weed free pastures • Excellent long term fertiliser history • Great water supply • All improvements to a high standard, 250 R2 cattle yard capacity, Technifarm crush and vet gate, three stand shearing shed and sheep yards • Central to the nearby dairying areas of Whakatane, Te Puke and Rotorua making dairy grazing an attractive option • Well known for an ideal climate with reliable rainfall pggwre.co.nz/WHK26740

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

Whakatane Surrounds TENDER Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold By Private Treaty) Closes 4.00pm, Wednesday, 8 November OPEN DAY 12.00-2.00pm, Thursday, 19 & 26 October

Phil Goldsmith B 07 307 1620 M 027 494 1844 pgoldsmith@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz

New Zealand’s leading rural real estate company RURAL

LIFESTYLE

RESIDENTIAL

AUCTION

Proven Dairy Location This 103.54ha dairy unit on Schollum Road presents a great opportunity to purchase before prices possibly increase in line with payout. A tidy 24 ASHB dairy, all flat contour, central race system, good support buildings. Milking 300 cows with average production of 103,000 kgMS. The main home has with four bedrooms, office and large dining / lounge. The second dwelling is in good condition and occupied by a farm worker.

Eureka AUCTION (Unless Sold Prior) 11am, Thurs, 2 November, BNZ Business Cntr, Morrinsville OPEN DAY 11am-12pm, Tuesday, 17 October 26 SCHOLLUM ROAD

"Brancott' - Top Quality Farm • 635.7611 ha (1570 acres) 49km nth west of Hastings • Annual average rainfall 1400mm, easy contoured, breeding and finishing block with good water • Four stand woolshed, covered yards, three haybarns, implement shed, satellite yards, sundry buildings and fertiliser bin, all-weather laneway • Approximately 111 paddocks, 20 in deer fence • Managers home, two cottages and shepherds whare. Brancott provides scale with options

pggwre.co.nz/HAM26661

Russell Thomas M 020 4004 0360

pggwre.co.nz/HAS26743

Russell.Thomas@pggwrightson.co.nz

AUCTION

• 848.34 hectares (2096 acres) 33km west of Hastings • Scale, location, contour plus excellent access • Substantial single storey 1906 homestead on an elevated site surrounded by mature trees • Upgraded reticulated system plus dams and creeks • Multiple sheep and cattle yards, seven stand woolshed, two extra homes plus sundry buildings • A great opportunity to purchase blue ribbon 'Olrig Station' offering a range of farming options

AUCTION Plus GST (if any) 2.00pm, Thursday, 16 November Community Centre, Te Mata Road Havelock North Doug Smith B 06 878 3156 M 027 494 1839 dougsmith@pggwrightson.co.nz Paul Harper M 027 494 4854 Paul.Harper@pggwrightson.co.nz

AUCTION

Iconic "Olrig Station"

Hawke's Bay

pggwre.co.nz/HAS26620

Hawke's Bay AUCTION Plus GST (if any) 2.00pm, Friday, 10 November East Pier, Hardinge Road, Napier

Doug Smith B 06 878 3156 M 027 494 1839 dougsmith@pggwrightson.co.nz Paul Harper M 027 494 4854 Paul.Harper@pggwrightson.co.nz

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

Immaculate Breeding and Finishing 917 Ugly Hill Road • 355.95ha (880 acres) approximately • Mainly easy rolling contour • Excellent subdivision with intensive bull unit • Spacious four-bedroom home in landscaped gardens • 27km south west of Waipukurau

pggwre.co.nz/WPK26815

Waipukurau AUCTION Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) 2.00pm, Thursday, 30 November OPEN DAY 1.00-3.00pm, Tues, 24 Oct & 10.00-12.00pm, Thurs, 26 Oct

Max Lyver B 06 858 6780 M 027 597 5818 mlyver@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz

New Zealand’s leading rural real estate company RURAL

LIFESTYLE

RESIDENTIAL

Southland

From Organic Pasture to Palete Retro Organics is an organic dairy processing factory and certified organic 125ha dairy farm, manufacturing and distributing a range of products including NZs only lactose free yoghurt produced from cows milk. The farm and factory offers a rare opportunity to invest in an unique business where milk is produced from the dairy farm and immediately supplied to a processing plant where pure and fresh dairy products are manufactured. The current owners have created one of New Zealands only scalable artisan organic dairy processors capable of producing milk, yoghurt, cheese and butter. 5

TENDER Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold By Private Treaty) Closes 12.00pm, Tuesday, 12 December Darrell Duncan B 03 209 0302 M 027 432 5767 Andrew Patterson B 03 211 3144 M 027 434 7636

pggwre.co.nz/GOR26707

Quality Sought After Property • "Springvale" 80.5931ha • 9km south of Oamaru, highly fertile soils • On farm bore, ring mains, 26 hydrants, travelling irrigator • Well presented three bedroom home and full range of farm buildings • Information brochure available

Randolph Downs - Breeding and Finishing Situated just 55km north of Christchurch, this 843.1426ha farm is a superior and versatile breeding and finishing unit. Currently farming a merino flock comprising approximately 3,400 ewes and 1,200 hoggets, and also finishing 200 cattle. Quality improvements include a four-stand RB woolshed with covered yards and a full range of farm buildings. A magnificent homestead of generous proportions set in large established grounds completes the picture. pggwre.co.nz/CHR26728

North Otago PRICE ON APPLICATION Plus GST (if any)

pggwre.co.nz/OAM26531

Laurie Farmer M 027 435 7535 Dave Finlay M 027 433 5210

Coastal Land Near Kai Iwi Lakes

Dargaville Surrounds

Broomfield DEADLINE PRIVATE TREATY Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 2.00pm, Thursday, 9 November

Peter Crean B 03 341 4315 M 027 434 4002 pcrean@pggwrightson.co.nz

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

• 27 hectares more or less, title pending • Implement shed, wool shed • 10 cow plant and calf rearing shed • Cattle yards and holding yard • Very good free draining soils • Adjoining accommodation business also for sale pggwre.co.nz/DAG26864

SALE BY SET DATE Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 2.00pm, Wednesday, 15 November Megan Browning M 027 668 8468 mbrowning@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz

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