Farmers Weekly NZ October 8 2018 by AgriHQ

20 Best man back in charge Vol 17 No 38, October 8, 2018

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Quiet and capable Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz

FARM apprenticeship course now year old is starting to have an influence on getting more Kiwis in jobs on

dairy farms. Tirau farm apprentice Kadience Ruakere-Forbes is among the first year’s intake under the Federated Farmers’ Apprenticeship Dairy Programme, a pilot programme supported by PrimaryITO, the federation and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. The scheme kicked off last year amid concerns over the lack of New Zealanders seeking dairy careers. Ruakere-Forbes is one of 62 apprentices in the programme so far and is confident the programme will set him well on his intended path to becoming a farm manager. He works for former Waikato sharemilker of the year Bas Nelis on his 500-cow Tirau property. It is the Reporoa-born worker’s first season on the farm but fifth season dairying. He is looking forward to ultimately completing his level 4 dairying papers this year. “The apprenticeship course is good. It runs over the long term so you are not bombarded all at once and there is a lot of support from training advisers through your time on farm,” he said. He appreciates the open approach taken by apprenticeship organisers to considering other

courses to incorporate into training along the way. “You could suggest something like a welding course, for example, which I am interested in and Bas and I have also suggested they include an AI course for apprentices to do if they choose.” Nelis said Kadience came into the apprenticeship programme after starting work with him and he sees similarities to the farm cadet scheme he grew up with. “The apprenticeship scheme helps them set a few more goals and also goals for you as an employer working with them to help them develop. That does not always happen and they cannot upskill unless you work with them.” He also appreciates the focus on trying to get more New Zealanders onto farms. “I think we would all prefer to employ Kiwis but the difficulty has often been finding them.” Kadience is going well in his first year on the farm as a quiet and capable worker with plenty of potential, he said. “We have six staff members and we like to look after them all and see them do well.” Federated Farmers dairy chairman Chris Lewis said interest in the apprenticeship programme does not guarantee a place on it, either for staff or employees. “There is an accreditation process you have to go through. As an employer you have to prove you will be keeping best practice, including an accurate hours roster and good housing and work conditions. “And to be fair, not all those that apply to be apprentices are the

most suitable candidates.” So far organisers have 180 eligible expressions of interest from potential apprentices and 193 employer expressions of interest with 98 completing farm charters to enable them to enter the programme. Most of those already on the programme are from traditional dairying areas of Taranaki and Waikato with those regions accounting for almost half the apprentices enrolled. “We are seeing where we need to have more resources to engage with farmers about the programme. For example, we have no one on it in Bay of Plenty. “So the next step from here is to look at some funding to get some staff on the road who can visit farmers, sit around the kitchen table and explain the programme. This is what takes the time and money but has to be done.” Applications have been made through the Regional Development Fund to finance those resources. Lewis said there has been considerable interest from people in their mid to late 20s who are at a stage where they might have a young family and are just realising how difficult it is to secure and afford a home, even to rent. “For them, farming holds the appeal of having a home and offering a great career pathway while they enjoy their family as well.” He also hopes having some field staff will enable stronger relationships to be developed with iwi wanting to have young tribal members upskilled to work on Maori dairy units.

BIG FAN: Kadience Ruakere-Forbes likes the apprenticeship course because he isn’t bombarded and has a lot of support. Photo: Peter Drury

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NEWS

WEATHER OVERVIEW

25 McDonald’s lauds Maori beef farm Water improving but ... �� 7 Little support for farmers’ proposal �� 8

Newsmaker ��30 New Thinking ��31 Opinion ��32 World ��40

New Zealand is drying out so WeatherWatch.co.nz is focusing more on potential rainmakers for those regions most in need of water. While we do see a few showers here and there we really need a decent low pressure system with northerly quarter winds to move onto the country – preferably from the Tasman Sea side. At the end of this week there is some chance of that happening, however, there is an element of 50:50 to this because so much high pressure surrounds NZ. We aren’t concerned so much about a developing weak El Nino, we’re more concerned about NZ catching the same dry southeast Australia has caught recently. There might be a cold southerly this weekend too, dry start to next week.

NZX PASTURE GROWTH INDEX – Next 15 days

Pasture Growth Index Above normal Near normal Below normal

7-DAY TRENDS

Rain Dry to begin with this week but a few isolated showers possible for Monday and Tuesday. Rain on the West Coast on Wednesday might be heavy. Some chance of rain crossing NZ late week/early weekend from a Tasman Sea low.

ON FARM STORY Temperature Warmer than average, especially by day, until Wednesday. On Wednesday cooler than average air moves into the lower South Island while warmer than average conditions remain in the north. This weekend there might be a nationwide temperature drop.

Wind Mostly light winds to begin with but by Wednesday northwest winds strengthen over the North Island while a cooler southwest change moves into the South Island. This weekend windy northwesters look to change to colder, stronger southwesterlies for many.

Highlights/ Extremes Heavy rain for the West Coast this Wednesday. Wintry conditions briefly for the southern half of the South Island around Wednesday too. A heavy rain chance on Saturday for some in the west. Windier/cooler nationwide by Sunday.

14-DAY OUTLOOK

For further information on the NZX PGI visit www.agrihq.co.nz/pgi The warm, sunny weather in many places lately coupled with a fairly dry trend has seen positive pasture growth but perhaps slower than normal for some with a drier than average trend now developing in some large portions of NZ so pasture growth will continue to slow if soaking rains don’t return in the next week or so. There is some chance a low in the Tasman Sea later this week and early weekend will bring rain to NZ. One to watch.

SOIL MOISTURE INDEX – 04/12/2018

38 Benevolent history repeats The Duncan, Perry and Howard families were instrumental in setting up Smedley, Taratahi and Massey University and the latest generation is doing it again with a group of farms in Rangitikei, particularly Otiwhiti and Westoe, providing a start on the land for cadets from all round the country.

REGULARS Employment ��41 Classifieds ��41 Livestock ��42-43 Markets ��44-48 GlobalHQ is a farming family owned business that donates 1% of advertising revenue to the Rural Support Trust. Thanks to our Farmers Weekly and Dairy Farmer advertisers this week: $1224. Need help now? You can talk to someone who understands the pressures of farming by phoning your local Rural Support Trust on 0800 787 254.

Source: WeatherWatch.co.nz

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Genetic ban is ‘indefensible’ Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz DESPITE the clear benefits new genetic technology can bring it will take a groundswell of support from the primary sector to move the Government’s view on the technology’s use. The latest Royal Society discussion paper on gene editing technology has highlighted some benefits it could bring to New Zealand’s primary sector and food industry. They includes removing allergycausing compounds from cow’s milk, disease-proofing manuka honey and speeding up apple variety selection. But Royal Society co-chairman Professor Barry Scott said it appears streamlining the release of the technology in NZ doesn’t look very likely in the near future despite the strides being made in other country’s food sectors. Scott is also professor of molecular genetics at Massey University. In the United States a nonbrowning mushroom has already been released, developed through the use of CRISPR gene-editing technology. The United States Department of Agriculture gave the green light to CRISPR-developed food in May, so it does not require special legislation, on the grounds food developed with it does not contain foreign genetic material. “I think this technology remains a low priority for our Government. Minister (David) Parker has said he has no appetite at this stage for any new legislation around this technology,” Scott said. “The only way it is likely to move is if we see a groundswell of opinion and support coming from the farming community.” Scott is clearly frustrated at the legislation NZ developers have to operate under. Here, genetic modification refers to any technology developed for that purpose after July 1998. “Any technology developed before that time is considered safe while any technology that comes after that has to go through a very difficult process.”

GET IN BEHIND: The only way to change Government priorities for gene technology is with a groundswell of support from the farming community, Royal Society chairman Professor Barry Scott says.

This frankly is a mess and is indefensible but it is out of our hands. The government needs to fix it up. Professor Barry Scott Royal Society But what is classed as acceptable, including the use of radiation to deliberately mutate cell DNA (mutagenesis) and throw out useful genetic variants can deliver more unwelcome consequences than a process as precise as CRISPR gene editing that targets only a very specific part of a cell’s DNA. “We are really caught by the legislation we have and the whole concept of GM is totally wrong and to be regulated on a process and not an outcome is a problem.”

He contrasts that with medicine approvals. “No one challenges the process to make a vaccine. Rather, we look at how safe the final formulation is to use.” There is a strong level of support in the agri science community for a revisit of GM regulations. AgResearch science group leader Dr Tony Connor said it is timely to have a public discussion about the merits or otherwise of gene editing and potential applications and opportunities for NZ as a food-producing nation. “The genetic technologies are developing at such a pace internationally that it is important we don’t get left behind and as a society we understand what gene editing is and what it is not.” Connor lamented the difficulty with public perceptions of gene editing tends to be skewed in favour of worst-case scenarios, even in the absence of any evidence of harm. Scott said some of the benefits

coming out of gene editing promise to significantly reduce pest levels or shorten time to market for developing new crops. “In the case of apples, developing new commercial varieties is slow and can take up to 10 years. Gene editing technology can have trees flowering in eight months rather than five years. Once a new variety with desirable characteristics has been selected, traditional plant breeding would reintroduce the genes that slow down flowering. “The resulting trees sold to growers would not contain any of the gene editing changes but would have been introduced to market much faster than by existing breeding techniques.” “But this also highlights just how farcical the legislation is at present. It is quite daft to call it a GM organism.” Scott is unsure if the technology will be blighted by the same unscientific claims that have bedevilled vaccinations recently.

“In California the big concern is around glyphosate herbicide. There is no indication over there about concern over this technology.” Based on his public discussions on the subject Scott believes most New Zealanders are also a lot more considered than they used to be about GM technology, particularly the gene editing technology. That contrasts with the concern over transgenic technology central to the debate back in 2000 when the Royal Commission released its report. “People are clearly seeing the opportunities here and younger ones, in particular, are keen to engage about it.” Scott is overseeing a fourth and final paper from the society that gives an overview of NZ’s regulatory framework. “This frankly is a mess and is indefensible but it is out of our hands. The government needs to fix it up.”

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Farmers have a choice of five FONTERRA is conducting a wide-open contest among five nominees to fill three vacancies around its board table, which consists of seven farmer-directors and four independents. The retirements of former chairman John Wilson through illhealth and of long-serving director Nicola Shadbolt mean Ashley Waugh is the only sitting director seeking re-election. Because the co-operative recently reported its first loss in 17 years of operations Waugh is exposed to a possible backlash through the ballot box from disgruntled shareholders. But the opposite view is that Fonterra needs to retain its board experience for what is a complex and challenging governance job. Fonterra recently down-sized its board by removing two farmerdirector positions. Only chairman John Monaghan remains with more than three years’ experience among the farmer-directors and three of the independents are also comparative newcomers. The representation and governance review approved by farmers in 2016 introduced a skills matrix and confidential candidate assessment process done by an independent nomination panel. This year it put forward three highly qualified men – Waugh, Zespri chairman Peter McBride and Maori leader Jamie Tuuta. Subsequently two candidates chose to self-nominate – former director Leonie Guiney and multiple farm owner and irrigation scheme chairman John Nicholls, both from Canterbury. Voters could therefore be faced with difficult choices and preferences when exercising their three yes votes or five no votes or a combination thereof. Electoral officer Warwick Lampp, of ElectioNZ in Christchurch, said the code of conduct for candidates

includes saying nothing that brings Fonterra into disrepute or criticises the electoral process. They can respond to media questions and distribute their profiles but do not have to. Profiles and statements for the five candidates are published here. Ashley Waugh Fonterra farmer-director Ashley Waugh wants to stay the course and improve the co-op’s commercial performance in his second term of three years. He is the sole sitting director of the five nominees. The commercial performance objectives are operating profit, earnings and dividends that give a good return on share capital, he said. While the last financial year was very disappointing, the previous one (2016-17) delivered a good milk price, a 40c dividend and a 6% return on capital. That was an example of what Waugh is striving for and will continue to strive for. The seeds of last year’s loss were planted five years ago in the botulism scare and the Beingmate investment and it is unusual in his long corporate experience to have two major abnormals in one year’s results. Waugh said the process of tidying up long-term, underperforming assets is under way and farmers he has spoken to said they appreciate the honesty and commitment shown by Fonterra’s leadership in the past three months. He stepped down as chairman of Moa Group at the end of September and retained board positions at Seeka and Colonial Motor Group. After graduating with a business studies degree from Massey University he joined Ford Motor Group for nine years, spent 10 years with the Dairy Board and eight years with National Foods

in Australia, finishing as chief executive. The Waughs’ 300-cow dairy farm at Te Awamutu, where they live, is run by a lower-order sharemilker. Jamie Tuuta Jamie Tuuta will give the Fonterra board extensive governance experience spanning 20 years in multiple sectors and businesses and a deep understanding of the Maori economy. The co-operative philosophy aligns with his own values and the Maori world view. His reasons for standing include the importance of Fonterra to the country, dairy farmers and the entities he is involved with. Tuuta is a shareholder in Paraninihi Ki Waitotara, the largest Taranaki supplier to Fonterra, with 15 dairy farms and 7000 cows producing more than 2.5 million kilograms of milksolids annually. He is about to stand down as Maori Trustee after seven years, during which he was also a director of many land, farming and forestry enterprises throughout the country. Tuuta is also chairman of Maori Television and Te Ohu Kaimoana (Maori Fisheries) and a director and trustee of Taranaki investment and environment ventures. He has been through Fonterra’s governance development programme and was a steering group member for the Te Hono Primary Sector Boot Camps at Stanford University, California. Another reason for his candidature is the disappointing financial results in Fonterra’s last trading year and the need to review its capital allocations, a process that is now under way. “We have an opportunity with the change in leadership to reassess the strategy and unite a board with the right skills. “However, I believe commitment to the co-operative still requires

Ashley Waugh

Jamie Tuuta good performance.” Tuuta will consider reducing his governance roles if elected and is a passionate Taranaki resident, where dairying and Fonterra’s commercial presence are mainstays of the provincial economy. John Nicholls Frustration that Fonterra is failing to live up to its potential has motivated John Nicholls’ nomination.

At a time when Fonterra needs to be getting closer to its New Zealand supply base he is concerned it has been drifting in the other direction. “As dairy farmers we need directors who share our values and who have the capability to make a difference.” Since starting out on their first dairy farm in Wairarapa in 1996 Nicholls and his wife Kelly have built their business to six Canterbury dairy farms employing

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

candidates to fill three seats

Leonie Guiney Canterbury farmer Leonie Guiney is standing again for the Fonterra board to contribute towards a simpler, more disciplined but successful company. Fonterra must allocate its capital to its core strengths and cease trying to be what it is not, she said. “We need an attitude to stewardship of owners’ capital and a direction that restores the trust of our farmer owners and the New Zealand public while enhancing our still positive reputation offshore.” Guiney said her history with the board in a previous term as director had now put her in a

John Nicholls much stronger position to be effective, not necessarily popular. Despite its present problems Fonterra’s core value remains in the ingredients business. It has an opportunity to rescue its finances and future if it is much better focused on its strengths. Guiney believes it also needs to make some very hard calls on why it has failed in the past. With husband Kieran, Guiney owns three dairy farms and they are 50% equity and managing partners in three more, all of which come under her financial management. They were Canterbury Sharemilkers of the Year in 2006 and Guiney has an agricultural science degree from Massey University and prior experience as a consulting officer for the Dairy Board, Golden Vale dairy cooperative in Ireland and FarmRight consultancy in NZ. Guiney listed among her strengths the accessing of information from informed questioning and a focus always on why and for whom Fonterra exists. “I see very clearly how we can solve Fonterra’s reputational issues.” Peter McBride

Leonie Guiney

Peter McBride will bring to Fonterra the skills gained and experience of high-level governance during very complex and difficult situations for the kiwifruit industry. He led the kiwifruit industry’s response to Psa as inaugural chairman of Kiwifruit Vine Health and has been Zespri chairman since 2013 and a director since 2002. McBride is also chief executive of Trinity Lands, the charitable primary sector company with 12,500 cows on 19 South Waikato farms producing 6.3 million kilos milksolids annually. He is also a shareholder and director of Crocodile Farms at Tokoroa, with 950 cows producing 540,000kg. During a long governance career McBride has travelled internationally in markets in Asia, Europe, and Latin America. He has overseen the finances of billion-dollar enterprises and marketing budgets of hundreds of millions of dollars. Trinity Lands has assets of $460m in agribusiness. “I have a good understanding of the strategy and key performance measures that are required

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Peter McBride for effective marketing and innovation,” he said. Towards the end of his governance roles in the kiwifruit industry, McBride believes he has the experience, credibility, energy and personal commitment to make a significant contribution to Fonterra. “I have a strategic and global mindset, very focused on performance and have no interest in petty politics or industry

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tribalism,” he said. The complex issues facing the dairy industry include environmental sustainability, the risk of diminishing supply, capital structure and efficiency and increased competition. Among the key challenges for Fonterra are relationships with the Government and the public and to win back the hearts and minds of its own farmer-shareholders.

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30 staff and running 5000 cows. A graduate from Massey University in agriculture and agricultural science, Nicholls is an experienced co-operative director who chairs a large irrigation scheme and previously served on the Fonterra Shareholders Council. “We are family-values based dairy farmers who depend on the 20th of the month milk cheque for our income. We’ve worked hard over the years to build our farming business and are committed to our people and culture, environmental excellence and growth.” Nicholls said a strong, capable and forward-thinking Fonterra is critical to help farmers protect and enhance their considerable onfarm investments. “We need to get our vision and culture right and must develop and execute on a strategy that shareholders and stakeholders understand and believe in. We’ve also got to drive financial performance, strengthen our balance sheet and right-size our cost base. “There’s some hard work ahead but we must get on with it if we are to create a Fonterra that we are and the next generation can be proud of.”

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Water improving but ...

NEWS BRIEFS

Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz

THE owners of 200 calf-rearing properties are being surveyed as part of the eradication of Mycoplasma bovis. Ministry for Primary Industries national controller Geoff Gwyn said owners of selected properties are being asked to take a simple one-off nasal swab from calves. “The identified properties have no connection to other properties which are being testing or at risk of having M bovis. In fact, if properties are connected to M bovis properties they are being discounted from this survey as we will already be testing them as part of the response. It captures both animal movements and milk supply, the two high-risk pathways of infection. We are actually targeting at least 1000 farms as the source farms will also have some assurance they are M bovis-free,” Gwyn said.

FARMERS should celebrate new data showing an improvement in fresh-water quality for the last decade, Federated Farmers water spokesman Chris Allen says. The latest analysis from Land, Air, Water Aotearoa (LAWA) shows more sites monitored for eight quality parameters have improved in quality than have declined. However, the inclusion for the first time of the macroinvertebrate community index (MCI), which measures insects, worms and snails that live on or just below the stream bed, is more worrying. LAWA river water quality head Tim Davie said the survey found they are under pressure with two of the five monitored sites revealing populations are likely or very likely to be degrading. The macroinvertebrates, on which fish feed, are an indicator of the health of waterways. “Macroinvertebrates are a good indicator of the wider health of waterways and have a high ecological value so it’s disappointing to see they’re under pressure. “On the other hand, it’s positive to see improving trends for the eight chemical-physical waterquality indicators as we know these are quicker to respond to change. “It is particularly encouraging to see ammoniacal nitrogen improving at many sites given the work of councils in reducing point source discharge and farmers keeping stock out of waterways.” Allen said farmers should

SAD: Land, Air, Water Aotearoa river water quality head Tim Davie is disappointed latest research shows macroinvertebrates are under pressure.

It is time to celebrate that we are going in the right direction. That is not to say we are there yet. Chris Allen Federated Farmers celebrate the improvement but use the data to identify areas still needing work. “It is time to celebrate that we are going in the right direction. That is not to say we are there yet. “We now have a good foundation of data being assessed consistently which we can use to identify which part of a catchment needs to be targeted.”

The data was collated from between 310 and 673 sites, depending on the parameters looked at. Allen urged farmers not to lose focus but to keep working on reducing their impact on fresh-water quality. Professor Jenny WebsterBrown, of the Waterways Centre for Freshwater Management at Canterbury and Lincoln Universities, said the data shows about a third of routinely monitored fresh-water systems have reduced quality because of human activity. But improving quality at more than half the sites shows change for the better is possible when the source is identified and addressed. Waikato University lake and fresh-water scientist Professor Troy Baisden praised LAWA for creating

a large, consistent dataset which is routinely assessed. But more work is needed to help identify where problems are and the scale of the issues. LAWA chairman Stephen Woodhead said the MCI is affected by human activity and he urged people to stay focused on reducing their impact on waterways. The organisation will this summer provide information on how to reduce run-off and improve water quality. Initially a collaboration between New Zealand’s 16 regional councils and unitary authorities, LAWA is now a partnership between the councils, Cawthron Institute, and the Ministry for the Environment with support from the Tindall Foundation and Massey University.

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M bovis survey

Seeka fears Psa SEEKA, New Zealand’s biggest kiwifruit grower, might have found Psa disease in an orchard it is developing in Australia. It has notified Agriculture Victoria of unusual bacterial symptoms and is removing suspicious plant material. The affected plants are in a non-producing part of the orchard at Shepparton. “As part of our preventative measures Seeka has removed the grafted canopy from 4.5 hectares of the two-year-old vines, with the remainder under watch. The Hayward variety in production does not appear to be affected and our experience in New Zealand is that Hayward can tolerate Psa,” it said. Seeka shares fell 10 cents to $6. They are down about 8% this year.

New farm tool A NEW resource to help farmers measure their business performance has been launched by the Red Meat Profit Partnership. The Key Performance Indicators booklet includes detailed descriptions of 16 core KPIs, some example calculations and resources for farmers considering how to improve their farm business. The KPIs, developed in conjunction with a group of industry professionals and farmers, include lambing percentage, ewe flock efficiency, calving percentage, fawn weaning percentage, gross farm revenue per effective hectare and live-weight gain. Partnership chairman Malcolm Bailey said understanding how a farm business is performing is critical to making decisions on how to improve productivity and profitability. “There are many possible measures which can be used to analyse the performance of a farm business, however, this resource focuses on a core set of KPIs that we encourage farmers to use as the starting point to understand how their farm business is performing.”

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Little support for farmers’ proposal Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz A PROPOSAL for separate reduction targets for long and short-lived agricultural greenhouse gas emissions has not found favour with the 15,009 submissions made on the Government’s Zero Carbon Bill. More than nine out of 10 (91%) submitters said they want a target of net-zero emissions across all greenhouse gases by 2050 set in legislation now. The submissions also overwhelmingly (96%) support the establishment of a Climate Change Commission, an independent panel to advise the Government and they were similarly heavily in favour (92%) of the inclusion of provisions to help New Zealand adapt to climate change.

There have been moves from the primary sector and support from the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment for short-lived greenhouse gas such as methane to have a separate reduction target to long-lived gases such as carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide to reflect their longevity in the atmosphere. Just 5% of submissions support having separate targets. Secretary for the Environment Vicky Robertson said the submissions will be considered as policy advice is developed for ministers. “Throughout the submissions and public meetings we also heard that New Zealanders want certainty about how we will respond to climate change as a country. “This enables business and government to invest and make

INCLUSIVE: Concerns about the speed and scale of emissions reduction must be heard and included in new rules, Climate Change Minister James Shaw says.

Just 5% of submissions support having separate targets.

effective decisions about how the transition to a low-emissions economy will occur. “Many submitters also supported the concept of a just transition that’s fair and inclusive and that governments, current and future, must support those most affected by change.” Climate Change Minister James Shaw said the submissions show there is support for a lowemissions economy by 2050. “The vast majority of respondents want NZ to do everything we can to reduce

our greenhouse gas emissions as much as possible and offset the remainder to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. “At the same time, there was a strong representation from people and businesses who, whilst supporting the overall direction, expressed caution about the speed and scale of the transition

and the pressure it will put their sectors under. “We have to ensure that those concerns are heard and included as we put together the final shape of the Zero Carbon Bill. “We need to take everyone with us and leave no one behind.” The Bill will be introduced to Parliament next year.

Injuries down but it’s too soon to give credit Bryan Gibson bryan.gibson@globalhq.co.nz ON-FARM deaths are trending down but Worksafe is loathe to attribute it to a change in attitude. Last year 10 people died on New Zealand farms. In previous years more than 20 people a year died on average. Worksafe agricultural sector lead Al McCone said while the organisation is seeing more engagement from farmers it is too soon to declare a change in attitude from the sector. For example, being hit or

injured by animals is a major cause of on-farm injuries but there is not a great movement on the part of dairy farmers to prevent those injuries, he said. There is a culture of personal responsibility that is still strong in NZ. “But people are not perfect so someone that is perfectly trained can one day be a bit tired or something and are distracted and they make a mistake.” McCone said it is important to think about the mechanisms by which people get hit or injured by animals. Workers spend a

lot of time close to animals so a physical modification to a shed to help prevent crush injuries might be needed. “We’re making cars safer so that when there is an accident the likelihood of someone surviving is much higher. But we need to get employers to look at the critical risks. How can we protect their hands and arms from cows kicking out? Can you put up physical barriers to stop a cow kicking out?” Vehicles are also a major contributor to injuries and fatalities but McCone said wet weather last year was probably a

factor in the decrease in deaths as farmers spent less time on tractors. “When the weather did clear at the end of last year and this year contractors were out long hours trying to catch up and we didn’t see the fatalities. Was it maintenance? “Were they rested? It could be a whole lot of things around that,” he said. McCone also highlighted the impact injuries have on the industry. There are 1500-1800 people off work on any one day because of injury in an industry that finds

it difficult to find workers. “We hear stories about guys being injured and their spouse picking up the slack – it puts pressure on family relationships.” Worksafe is working with agriculture and horticulture leaders to address safety and is also planning specific work around vehicles. “We would drop fatality rates by a quarter if we got that sorted so we’re putting a lot of effort in there.” It is also working closely with DairyNZ to address crush injuries in dairy sheds.

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News

10 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Trump’s tactics might help Kiwis compensation that might be paid to Canadian dairy farmers as a result opening up the local market to US rivals. “The thing about milk class 7 is that the price is reasonably attractive to encourage farmers to produce.

Nigel Stirling nigel.stirling@globalhq.co.nz THE dairy industry hopes Donald Trump’s hardball negotiating tactics will pay off for farmers here after Canada was forced to drop a controversial milk price classification in North American trade talks. Milk class 7 has seen Canadian dairy processors buying skim milk powder below international prices and dumping it on the world market. One industry leader recently estimated the depressing effect on SMP prices could have cost farmers here as much as $100m a year in lost earnings. The New Zealand dairy industry believes Canada’s SMP exports are effectively being cross-subsidised by the high prices charged to its own consumers for everyday dairy products such as butter and liquid milk. Prices received by Canadian farmers are jacked up by the country’s supply management system which uses high tariffs and production quotas to limit competition from both imports and new production from within its own borders. An international dairy alliance, including NZ’s Dairy Companies Association, first called for action against milk class 7 in September 2016. While the industries maintained the classification was illegal under World Trade Organisation rules prohibiting export subsidies little happened to resolve the issue until it caught Trump’s attention in April last year. Pledging to stand up for dairy farmers, Trump said “In Canada some very unfair things have

If they are not getting that carrot dangled in front of them then one assumes they will not produce. Malcolm Bailey Dairy Companies Assn

WILL IT HAPPEN? Canadian dairy production might be reduced now it has a cap on subsidised exports.

happened to our dairy farmers and others”. Trump’s attack came in the dairying heartland of Wisconsin, which had profited from a loophole in the original North American Free Trade Agreement that allowed ultra-filtered milk used in cheese-making to enter Canada free of the 300% tariffs that dairy imports usually attract. Milk class 7 halted US ultrafiltered exports as Canadian processors bought local substitutes at a lower price. Last week Canada agreed to

scrap the classification after the US made it a condition of a new trade deal to replace Nafta. Under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) milk protein and SMP exports will be capped at 35,000 tonnes from the second year of the agreement. That is below the 70,000 tonnes of SMP Canada exported last year and the 80,000 tonnes it was on track for this year but above the 10,000 tonnes it averaged between 2008 and 2015. The deal also provides a modest 3.59% opening of

the domestic market to US dairy exports – and even then Canadian dairy farmers have been promised compensation for any displacement of local milk. That follows a 3.25% opening of the market in the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans Pacific Partnership trade deal and a similar concession in Canada’s recent deal with the European Union. Dairy Companies Association chairman Malcolm Bailey hopes scrapping milk class 7 payments will be enough to offset any

“If they are not getting that carrot dangled in front of them then one assumes they will not produce.” But Bailey said even if there is no significant reduction in subsidised SMP production the export cap put in place by USMCA should choke off the amount that finds its way into global markets. “If there wasn’t the export cap or the quotas being enforced we could end up being in exactly the same position.” It is unclear if the production quotas that limit the amount of milk Canadian dairy farmers can produce will be cut back to allow for increased US imports. Before it can enter into force USMCA needs to be approved by US lawmakers and could be blocked if Democrats win back control of either house of Congress in elections next month.

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Longford Function Centre

Tokanui

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Tokanui Golf Club

Winton

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The Top Pub (Commercial Hotel)

Omakau

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Matakanui Rugby Club

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Tuatapere

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Waiau Town and Country Club

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Akaroa Golf Club

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News

12 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Parties strike deal on new tahr cull Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz

DEAL: The tahr cull will be reviewed once 6000 animals are killed.

A CULL of Himalayan tahr will still proceed but initial plans and targets have been modified after a meeting of interested parties. The Conservation Department initially planned to cull 17,500 tahr from the South Island’s Southern Alps but that will now be done in stages after regular monitoring. Conservation Minister Eugenie Sage said the

Himalayan Tahr Liaison Group meeting, made up of hunters, trampers and conservationists, acknowledged numbers had to be reduced and their views would help DOC finalise its operational plan. Hunters asked that bulls not be targeted while conservationists want to see tahr numbers reduced to under 10,000, the target in the 1993 Himalayan Tahr Control Plan.

There was general support for taking an adaptive management approach to controlling Himalayan tahr. Eugene Sage Conservation Minister

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“There was general support for taking an adaptive management approach to controlling Himalayan tahr,” Sage said. “This involves the department seeking to reduce the Himalayan tahr population by 6000 animals through immediate control work in October and early November and then reviewing progress with input from the Tahr Liaison Group. “DOC expects to remove 10,000 animals by August 2019. It will prioritise national parks, the South West World Heritage Area, the northern and southern exclusion zones and adjacent feeder valleys and more difficult to access country for its control work.” Hunters and wild animal recovery operators will be active over summer along with DOC, which will monitor the population and vegetation condition. DOC’s plan to cull tahr provoked a hostile reaction from hunters who described it as rushed and based on slender data, such as forecasts there were between 17,500 and 55,000 animals. Hunters also argued they were not consulted or canvassed over how they could contribute, as required by the control plan.

Slower sales soften wool Alan Williams alan.williams@globalhq.co.nz

2. REGISTER YOUR LOCATION 3. TAG AND REGISTER YOUR ANIMALS 4. RECORD AND CONFIRM ANIMAL MOVEMENTS 5. KEEP YOUR NAIT ACCOUNT UP-TO-DATE

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PRICES softened again at Thursday’s Napier wool sale, including a 10%-plus fall for 35 micron crossbred fleece. In the 37 micron and stronger range prices fell about 3% from the previous sale a fortnight earlier. Slower overseas market sales are causing the correction in NZ returns, PGG Wrightson’s North Island auctioneer Steve Fussell said. Higher coloured wools and poorer style oddments have suffered most. Hogget wool has remained steady, causing a larger price gap between higher and lower micron types. Among lambs’ wool types, 28 micron made a 5% gain. Across the market the pass-in rate was 16%. Sale details (in micron, level, price per kg/ clean: Full wool, good-to-average colour, 31 micron, $5.66kg/clean, steady; 33, $3.92, down 26c; 34, $3.57, steady; 35,$3.38, down 36c; 36, $3.33, down 11c; 37, $3.45, steady; 38, $3.52, steady; 39, $3.23, down 14c. Crossbred second shear: 33 micron, 3 to 4 inches, $3.58, steady; 35, 3 to 4 inches, $3.35, down 21c; 37, 2 to 3 inches, $3.24, down 5c; 39, 3 to 5 inches, $3.23, down 14c; 3 to 4 inches, $3.30, down 8c; 2 to 3 inches, $3.21, down 3c.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Stock dispute remains unresolved Tim Fulton timfulton050@gmail.com STOCK and station agency Rural Livestock says it has never stopped trying to help a client resolve a complaint and did everything it had to under the company’s terms of trade. South Otago farmer Ross Clark is seeking reparation of about $800,000 in relation to transactions handled by Rural Livestock agent John Williams in 2015 and 2016. After a week-long hearing in the High Court at Christchurch in May Justice Gerald Nation urged the parties to seek a private settlement so he would not have to rule on the case. The parties could not agree, though two of the initial six complaints were dropped, so they returned to the court in September for a final day of closing argument. Rural Livestock lawyer Hamish McIntosh said “It is clear on the evidence that Rural did try to help Mr Clark.” In mid-2017 when the extent of the Clark family’s prospective claim became clear, it sent senior agents to the Clark farm to help him with his account, McIntosh said. It had worked hard to determine what happened and had not withheld any information that could help the Clarks resolve the complaint and had actively investigated the claims and put right what it should, McIntosh said. “It’s not as if Rural is sitting Cheshire cat-like on secret information. It’s disclosed what it knows and what it has to deal with. “This is not a case of Rural closing the shutters and taking an aggressive litigation position against its client.” Clark’s inaccurate recordkeeping and failure to immediately report losses made

WAITING: The whereabouts of 172 heifers remains a mystery as Justice Gerald Nation considers his ruling in a dispute between South Otago farmer Ross Clark and Rural Livestock.

it hard for the company to fix problems, McIntosh said. “Mr Clark wasn’t dishonest but his account was unreliable,” McIntosh said, citing Clark’s inability to accurately recall the sale price of an injured lease bull that had to be put down. “It’s another example of his memory being inconsistent with the contemporaneous records.” Justice Nation asked McIntosh whether more information had emerged about the whereabouts of the missing stock. In the May the stock were said to have been shifted to a property in Mid Canterbury though the evidence was unclear. McIntosh said unfortunately Rural Livestock remains in somewhat of a holding pattern in the search for the stock. As in May, the evidence given by the Clarks’ agent, former Rural

Livestock employee Williams, was again central to the arguments between the parties. McIntosh said some of Williams’ evidence should be disregarded because most was off-the-cuff and some of it was never provided to the court as written evidence before the hearing. McIntosh said in relation to the Clark case, Williams would go wherever it was most convenient for him to support his own position. “He came up with this most fantastical position that he knows where the 172 AB-recorded heifers are but is unable to tell Rural Livestock, Mr Clark or the court where they are because it would be prejudicial to him under the Serious Fraud Office investigation.” The SFO is investigating a complaint made by Rural

Livestock about Williams in August 2016. McIntosh rejected the Clarks’ argument the company is ultimately responsible for Williams’ as its agent and employee. Rural Livestock bears only a vicarious liability for Williams’ action, McIntosh said. The Clarks’ lawyer Andrew Hitchcock said Rural Livestock had breached its obligations for the sale and delivery of stock. The family entered into written and verbal agreements with a Rural Livestock agent and still doesn’t know what happened to some of the stock and the income they expected from those transactions, Hitchcock said. “The plaintiffs, then and now, just don’t know what had occurred.” In relation to one of the Clarks’ complaints, the failure of Williams

to organise a free lease for stock, Hitchcock said the plaintiffs have adequately discharged the onus of proof for showing the sale and delivery of stock was not managed according to contractual obligations. Hitchcock said Clark relied on his agent to settle a deal and could not have been expected to know, with perfect 20:20 hindsight, a free lease would not eventuate. “The burden of proof is on Rural and 20:20 perfect hindsight is not the test that should be applied to Mr Clark’s actions.” Hitchcock said the Clarks were surprised multiple Rural Livestock agents could not find the missing animals. It appears the company was concerned about providing information to the family that could be relevant to the SFO investigation of Williams. “Mr Williams was their employee. If they were really so concerned about the transactions the onus was on them to act on the concerns. “There is a very distinct lack of clarity as to what information Rural actually holds” and very little evidence to show it had moved to provide the Clarks with the information they needed. It was hard to escape the conclusion Rural Livestock did not want to help the Clarks resolve their claim because it did not want that information to help Clark make a claim against Rural, Hitchcock said. Justice Nation said Clark appeared to do a huge number of livestock deals and “does have a regrettable lack of memory in relation to some of these transactions”. It was clear farmers often settled such agreements informally, leaning on posts, using cellphones and so on. Justice Nation indicated it will be at least two months before he delivers his judgment.

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News

14 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Dairy dips, sheep, beef and deer up Alan Williams alan.williams@globalhq.co.nz LANDCORP Farming’s milk revenues fell below $100 million in the latest year without the extra payment provided earlier by production from the 12 Shanghai Pengxin farms it managed in the North Island. As that contract had ended, revenues in the year ended June 30 were $94.8m, from $101.5m previously. That was a 6.6% reduction but as milk prices recovered, the gap was narrower than the 18.7% fall in group production, acting chairman Chris Day and chief executive Steven Carden said in the annual report. Production was 16.5m kilograms of milksolids, down from 20.3m kg MS. Excluding the loss of the Shanghai Pengxin farms, underlying production was 2.9% less than a year earlier because of weather extremes, both wet and dry, through the lower North Island and on the West Coast. The state-owned farmer, which trades under the Pamu brand name, received an average farmgate milk price of $6.63/kg MS including Fonterra dividends during the 2017-18 season, up from $6.09 the previous year. They said production per cow was in line with past years and stocking rates reduced slightly. The dairy farms stopped using palm kernel and that, combined with the adverse weather, put pressure on production costs, up 6%. Dairy profit remained strong, they said. Total revenue rose 7% to $247.1m for the year. Beef revenues rose to $52.5m from $51.1m on continuing strong markets and higher production. More than half the beef produced was sold under contract to processors, including premium prices in the Silver Fern Farms

BALANCE: A falling dollar helped limit Landcorp’s loss of income from reduced milk volume, chief executive Steven Carden says.

The earners • Dairy $94.8m • Sheep $52.8 • Beef $52.5m • Deer $19.7 • Wool $4.5m • Total income: $247.1m

quality beef programme. The best gain was in sheep revenues, with a 26% jump to $52.8m, as returns rose to highs last experienced in 2008, the report said. Landcorp’s average prime lamb farmgate return was 28% higher than in the 2016-17 year. Day and Carden said the group reduced its breeding ewe flock in recent years because of farm sales and some North Island farms being better suited to beef production. Very dry conditions in the south of the South Island meant lambs had to be quit earlier as stores rather than being taken to finishing and that also contributed to a 6% fall in sheep meat production to 7934 tonnes.

Landcorp’s average prime lamb farmgate return was 28% higher than in the 2016-17 year.

Deer revenue also rose strongly on good price levels and higher production, benefiting from Landcorp’s United States supply contracts. Revenue was $19.7m, up from $15.7m. Wool revenue fell to $4.5m from $6.3m because of weakening international crossbred pricing and despite a lift in production. The group sells directly to manufacturers through the New

Zealand Merino Co. Average prices received during the year were 22% lower than previously. At balance date Landcorp was running 67,483 dairy cows, 469,118 sheep, 88,972 cattle, and 90,220 deer on 84 farms of its own and 42 leased or managed farms. It earlier reported operating earnings of $48.5m for the year, up from $36.6m a year earlier. However, the after-tax profit was lower at $34.2m from $51.9m because of lower revaluation gains on livestock and forestry assets and an income tax payment of $11m compared to just $200,000 previously. A $5m dividend is being paid to the Government. Operating cashflow was slightly lower at $27.5m, down from $32.3m Total assets at balance date were $1.857 billion. Total liabilities were $360m, including $209m of borrowings. At just over 19% the ratio of debt to total debt plus equity is low and the balance sheet strong. Day described the annual report as integrated reporting, recognising the importance

of all six capitals involved in the business – environment, people, finance, farms and animals, expertise and business relationships. He and Carden emphasised the importance of innovation in the business, referring to the Northland study into potential horticulture or other uses of land now used for dairy farming, which has a relatively high environmental footprint. This study is at an early stage but such assessments will become the norm as Landcorp grapples with the fact New Zealand is reaching environmental and social limits in traditional farming practices. A highlight of the innovation programme is the deer milk powder being produced from 110 Red deer hinds on a Southland farm and being part of the menu in Auckland and Wellington restaurants, with plans to extend sales into Australia this financial year. The annual report said deer milk has double the healthy fat and protein produced in cow milk, giving it a rich, creamy flavour.

The assets • Dairy cows: 67,483 • Beef cattle: 88,972 • Sheep: 469,118 • Deer: 90,220 • Farms owned: 84 • Farms leased/managed: 42 • Total assets: $1.857b • Total liabilities: $360m

Hinds typically produce just one litre of milk a day compared to an average 24 litres from a cow. Landcorp is also expanding the Spring Sheep Milk Co jointventure selling sheep milk powder and calcium tablets in Asia. Milk production has been from just one farm near Taupo, from a flock of East Friesian sheep. Two new farms, both near Hamilton, will be in production this season, taking the total milking flock to 3600 animals, the report said. Day and Carden said Landcorp benefited from revaluations of its forest-related carbon units and planned to step-up forestry planting by another 2000ha in the next two years.

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Rules add to farm credibility Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz FARMERS will face even more compliance obligations so the type and format of the information required needs to be streamlined to simplify collection, Rabobank animal protein and sustainability analyst Blake Holgate says. Concerns about the impact of livestock on the environment mean the introduction of more regulation of the red meat sector requiring investment to verify its ethical and sustainable production. Those extra costs will be difficult to pass on to consumers but changing trends and market requirements mean there are benefits from such investment, he said. “I don’t think that in the short term we will be able to transfer these costs onto consumers. “By and large consumers have not demonstrated a willingness to pay more for meeting these standards but that does not mean we aren’t able to find a niche within the markets that is.” But the information required from producers has to be transparent and ideally should be in a form that satisfies bodies such as regional councils and processors, thus reducing repetition. Holgate’s report, Realising the Sustainable Advantage, found New Zealand regulations so far have focused on fresh water quality but new rules will be introduced in coming months for environmental sustainability, greenhouse gas emissions, fresh water and animal welfare. New fresh water regulations will extend rules excluding livestock and introduce controls to reduce or cap nutrient use. A soon-to-be-launched National Policy Statement for Indigenous Biodiversity will create national standards or bottom lines for the management and protection of indigenous biodiversity. Beef + Lamb NZ has calculated 24% of native vegetation is on sheep and beef farms but Holgate said that could be a double-edged sword with new rules potentially restricting what farmers can do with that native vegetation. And the Zero Carbon Bill is likely to make agriculture account for its greenhouse gas emissions.

NZ is one of four countries to have an A ranking under the World Animal Protection organisation’s protection index but regulation is constantly being reviewed to ensure it meets consumer concerns. “However, at a global level many consumers are progressively asking questions about how red meat is being produced and want to be reassured that the red meat they are purchasing was produced under conditions they consider to be acceptable.” Global food retailers Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Marks and Spencer, Walmart, Whole Foods Market and McDonald’s have all introduced tougher production standards. Those evolving standards create opportunities for producers prepared to meet consumer

requirements but the standards differ between markets. In China food safety and quality are the primary drivers of consumer choice but in places like California in the United States it is grass-fed. Meeting the production standards mitigates risk and future-proofs the red meat sector, he said. It protects processors against reputation risk but at a farm level it protects against future regulatory changes and meets bank funding expectations, which increasingly consider an applicant’s ability to meet certain production standards. Strategically it adds to NZ’s credibility, complements other NZ red meat attributes such as being grass fed and creates opportunities to supply niche markets that might pay premiums.

At a global level many consumers are progressively asking questions about how red meat is being produced. Blake Holgate Rabobank

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NOT WASTED: Though consumers have not shown willingness to pay extra for products by farmers meeting higher standards the investment is still worth it, Rabobank analyst Blake Holgate says.

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MYCOPLASMA BOVIS FACTS AND FIGURES MPI and sector partners Beef+Lamb New Zealand and DairyNZ are continuing to work towards the eradication of Mycoplasma bovis. We are confident about how the eradication programme is tracking. The fight against the disease is the largest biosecurity response undertaken in New Zealand.

Here is an update on key facts from the response:

Infected properties have been identified through milk testing, and tracing from infected farms

Currently infected properties in New Zealand:

• 7 in the North Island • 30 in the South Island

Previously infected properties have had their legal controls lifted

All infected farms and those with suspect test results are under legal controls and cannot trade stock

197,121 tests have been completed

197k

M. bovis symptoms M. bovis is spread through cow to cow contact

MPB0073

Bulk milk testing all dairy herds this spring

2 Continue tracking and tracing

v al and c

Next steps in the response

d m il k

Calves

ear infections, pneumonia, conjunctivitis, lame and swollen legs/joints

cte

Cows

abortions, mastitis, lame and swollen legs/joints

f d ri n k i n g i n

Protect your farm Support your neighbours, friends and family

• when sourcing cattle check their health history • complete NAIT records • talk with your grazier about biosecurity practices

Find out more mpi.govt.nz/bovis dairynz.co.nz/mbovis beeflambnz.com/mycoplasma-bovis Information current as at 01/10/2018

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Dairy database rules under review Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz THE valuable core database of the New Zealand dairy industry is subject to a regulatory review by the Ministry for Primary Industries, to which organisations and people can make submissions. Consultation will run for six weeks until November 12 and any submission becomes public information, MPI said. The key issue is whether the regulated dataset remains well aligned with the dairy industry’s current and future animal evaluation needs. MPI said there has been some concern expressed among dairy genetics companies about the management of herd improvement data. The regulations are in the Dairy Industry Restructuring Act (DIRA) and the Dairy Industry (Herd Testing and NZ Dairy Core Database) Regulations. Herd improvement covers dairy herd testing, herd recording, animal evaluation, artificial breeding and database services. The attention paid to those matters over decades is considered by many experts to be the reason NZ farmers are among

• • • • •

HAVE YOUR SAY: People are being invited to make submissions on a review of the dairy herd improvement database regulations.

the most efficient and competitive dairy producers in the world, MPI said. Dairy herd improvement also has the potential to contribute to environmental and animal health and welfare outcomes. Genetic gains through animal evaluation in the dairy industry

have been estimated to contribute $300 million a year to the economy. DairyNZ has estimated that over a 10-year period genetic improvement could add $257,730 to the bottom line of an individual farmer with an average-sized dairy herd.

For over 100 years NZ dairy farmers have monitored their cows’ production and shared the resulting data, developing local then regional and now industrywide datasets to support ongoing herd improvement. The Dairy Industry-Good Animal Database, or DIGAD, is

a repository that forms the basis for animal evaluation. It contains data on more than 35 million animals, with the oldest record dating back to 1903. It was managed by LIC but changed to DairyNZ in 2014 after a long tussle between the bodies, though LIC retains some input because of IT capability that DairyNZ does not yet have. The access panel must grant access where it is likely to benefit the NZ dairy industry and may do so if it is satisfied that will not cause harm. MPI said the purpose of the review is to ensure the regulatory regime provides certainty the industry will have available the necessary data to meet its needs and data availability for industry-good purposes keeps pace with changing needs and technology. The introduction of genomic data in bull selection is likely to make an increasingly important contribution to animal evaluation. It is not presently covered by regulation and therefore not captured for industry-good purposes. Ideally, the regulatory regime should be made sufficiently flexible to accommodate genomic data, MPI said.

News

18 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Hey, the kids are alright Through its Plate to Pasture Youth Scholarships Silver Fern Farms is committing to investing in future red meat sector leaders and recognising and rewarding emerging excellence. The scholarships offer young people $5000 to develop their red meat sector careers and capabilities in food and farming. Applications are open to people who want to develop their career in the food or red meat industry with interests in red meat, food production, agriculture, food marketing, marketing and sales, research and development, food processing, cooking and food technology. As part of the process each applicant was asked to explain their big idea for the sector and this week Farmers Weekly publishes their responses.

Combine meat and veg CHLOE is studying commerce and applied science in consumer food science at Otago University. Over the last couple of years, the development of plant-based protein has started to appear more frequently in the market, providing an option to consumers for a product that is sustainable and ethically produced which is perceived more desirably. Regardless of the direct impact, it is a trend that will continue to grow and could eventually lead to a decrease in red meat consumption by the new generation. Consumers will follow what they believe is the best thing to do and follow others choices, as seen by huge impact of social media influences lately, for example, as it creates trust with people instead of a company. So, with the introduction of a product that combines plantbased protein and red meat you are providing the customer with

Chloe Saxton Upper North Island

a product that is balanced and meets the desired values. By creating a product that combines both desirable sources of protein through the use of lentil flour it not only adds value

to the meat but enhances the functionality. Recent experiments with lentil flour at the University of Saskatchewan have enhanced the nutritional value and colour of the meat. Using various legumes and pulses in meat processing increases the nutritional value, providing a high source of fibre and protein with no genetic modification as well as increasing the water-holding capacity while maintaining texture, juiciness and tenderness. Lentil flour provides desirable attributes for burgers by adding value to lower end red meat cuts as well as maintaining colour during freezing, thus reducing food waste and being a more attractive frozen meat product. Therefore, introducing lentil flours in burgers or lentil flour as binders in lamb/beef sausages provides the customer with a more rounded experience.

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population and there are no meat products on the market that specifically target them. There are opportunities in these groups because their needs and wants differ from the rest of the population. Those needs could be met by producing fortified, convenient, precut and easy-to-chew red meat products. As the bioavailability of vitamins and minerals is largely important for this select group, red meat products could be fortified with vital vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, which aids in the adsorption of iron by the body, to help support a balanced diet in both age groups. Alongside this, the product must be convenient for the ease of busy parents and the elderly to prepare and also easy to chew to suit young teeth and/or dentures. With this in mind, other niches could also be targeted by the fortified meat products, including iron deficient consumers, allowing them to increase their iron absorption without having to take supplements. With further research and development there is large potential for the red meat industry to bring a new, competitive product to the market targeting high-income earners buying for the toddler and elderly niches. LK0094211©

Monique Yule Western North Island

MONIQUE is studying food technology with honours at Massey University. My big idea for the red meat industry is to better accommodate high-income earners over a wide variety of niche markets to increase the consumer base of the red meat industry and add extra value to red meat products. Niche markets, which I believe can be better targeted by the red meat industry include toddlers, the elderly and busy workers. By better targeting niche markets the specific needs and wants of consumers can be met, encouraging them to pay more for their desired product, resulting in increased revenue for the industry. The elderly and toddler niche could be better targeted by the red meat industry as they make up a large portion of the global

ALL SMILES: Silver Fern Farms chairman Rob Hewett met this year’s Plate to Pasture scholars, from left, Louise Schwass, Lucy Hewitt, Monique Yule, Chloe Hannah, Chloe Saxton and George Blyth.

Offer them offal LUCY is studying agribusiness and food marketing at Lincoln University. Less than 50% of an animal’s carcase is converted into valuable cuts of meat. Fronted with sustainability and food security issues there is a need, more than ever, to make better use of red meat co-products so shift the focus of red meat coproducts from being classified as low-value to products that are valued on a global scale. Edible red meat co-products such as offal are no longer consumed in many cultures. Asian countries such as Japan and China classify organ meats as a delicacy. The opportunity lies here for the industry to encourage people who are unresponsive to this trend to change and share this mindset. To achieve this the industry must take on a consumer-led approach by responding to the dominant consumer trend of healthism. Organ meats are protein-rich. In some cases they have more nutritional value than muscle meat. Today, more consumers are captivated by the protein fad due to the recognition of protein in a healthy diet. Strategic marketing can be used to take advantage of this by making the protein content a key feature of both packaging and related campaigns. In conjunction with this build e-commerce platforms where recipes and tutorials are available to educate consumers on how to cook their own nutritious meals using organ meats. Inedible co-products such as meat and bone meal are another opportunity.

Lucy Hewitt Eastern North Island

Incorporating high-quality ingredients into pet food will allow better penetration of the premium pet food sector. This can be accomplished by introducing various organ meats that are edible for human consumption but might have low consumer demand for personal consumption. This value-added approach is extremely fitting as many consumers consider their pets to have equal importance as family members, thus demand pet food of a prestigious quality. The aim is to market these products as containing real meat rather than entirely rendered components. If it is made apparent to consumers that it is a part of their pets’ carnivorous nature to consume red meat consumer outlook on this perspective will be positive.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Shift lambing times LOUISE is studying environmental science at Lincoln University. Extend the chilled (fresh) meat supply so more is available throughout the year. There is only a seasonal supply of chilled meat, ie during summer and into autumn because lambing occurs in spring. Therefore, for the rest of the year there is only a frozen supply because it lasts throughout the year, unlike chilled meat. Having an extended supply of chilled meat throughout the year will benefit the red meat sector in NZ because it will earn our red meat a premium on the market during the off season. This is because it is of much higher quality and is fresher than the frozen meat that is available at that time. This can be achieved by having a seasonal spread of production, which would mean extending the

timing of lambing outside of just spring. One way this can happen is by amplifying the already existing spread over the two islands due to changes in climate. For example, in the North Island where it is warmer, lambing could occur even earlier than usual and in the South of the South Island, where the winter sticks around considerably longer, lambing could be pushed further into the summer. Another option for extending lambing season and subsequently chilled meat supply is exploring other times of the year for lambing. However, to do this and ensure appropriate survival and growth rates we need to consider options such as lambing indoors and feeding out or break-feeding for sheep throughout either the summer or winter.

Louise Schwass Upper South Island

Get em as youngsters CHLOE is a Lincoln University studying masters in ag science. Educate the next generation. This will be aimed at young adults, primarily high school students are probably the best target. It will focus on the sustainability and ethical standards of farming and industry. Many people are misinformed about farming in New Zealand so it is particularly important to focus on urban schools where students might not have ever visited a farm or even know how one works. These students will be the next generation of potential red meat consumers so it is important they understand the basics of the red meat industry. Being a city school kid myself I don’t remember learning anything about farming at school and it wasn’t until my parents moved to a small lifestyle block in my later years of high school that I realised there was a whole other world out there. My proposed method of educating these students is a field day. It could follow the whole pasture to plate timeline so the students could start the day with a

Chloe Hannah Judges Choice

field trip to a farm or have a video presentation outlining the basics of producing red meat. The day could end with a small cooking class where students have a go

at preparing a red meat dish so they’re also learning about the nutritional values of red meat at the same time. I think the field day should be informative but should definitely remain fun. There should be opportunities for the students to be hands-on and they should feel like they can ask heaps of questions and not feel intimidated when they do so. Most importantly, the students should leave the field day with a positive and basic understanding of the red meat industry. Combining education of the read meat industry with the urban population is the first step in creating more ambassadors for the consumption of red meat and it might also help in the fight against plant-based protein. I think red meat industry education will not only better inform people but it might also introduce the farming world to the next generation of students who will bring with them a whole new realm of ideas for NZ’s red meat industry. And how great would that be? Bloody great.

Double the calves GEORGE is a cadet at Jeff Farm and is working towards the level 3 Primary ITO qualification in sheep husbandry. Remodel the traditional breeding cows and systems so the cows can successfully produce twins rather than just singles. It is now undesirable for breeding cows to produce twins. Producing twins comes with many complications, especially around calving time. Often both calves die, are born dead and in some situations the cow can die as well while struggling to give birth, which is why farmers prefer cows that produce single calves only. So, why can our cows not effectively produce multiples like our sheep do? Why can’t we modify our cows and our systems so our calving percentage is 160%-190%? In my mind cows should be able to give birth to and rear more than one calf successfully. Cows have four teats for a reason. It would be hugely profitable for farmers as they would have up to twice as many calves to sell/finish. To modify our cows the use of selective breeding would be the way to go to modify their genetics so producing twins is regular and achievable. Important traits would include breeding from cows from a set of female twins themselves, proven to calve with ease, have low birth weights but high growth rates. Also using bulls with low birth weights but fast growth rates would be ideal to put across the modified cow as smaller calves are much easier to give birth to. When selectively breeding it is important not to breed off a set of twins that were mixed sex because they will be infertile and are known as freemartins.

George Blyth Lower South Island

When the cows are calving I believe it would be worthwhile performing a calving beat daily, similar to a lambing beat as twinning cows are more likely to have trouble with giving birth. It would also pay to have them in a nice easy paddock with lots of shelter when calving to reduce the stress on the cows. In this system I would also have mini sets of cattle yards in designated calving paddocks to help deal with the increased issues that would occur during calving. With an increased number of calves on the ground each spring farmers would have to have more feed over the summer to cater for this. Farmers could potentially double their production from their breeding cows without having to invest much more time or money, which is why this is a great idea for revolutionising the beef industry.

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News

20 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Wool scour plants have a new owner Alan Williams alan.williams@globalhq.co.nz

TOP MAN: Nigel Hales, regarded by New Zealand Wool Scouring owner David Ferrier as the best in the business, is chief executive of the new company.

DAVID Ferrier sold out of his New Zealand wool scour interests nearly a decade ago, not expecting to return. Since last week he’s back, now owning most of the industry. His Woolscour Holdings bought 70% of the shares in the only scour operator, Cavalier Wool Holdings, which has scour plants at Napier and Timaru.

Australian-based Lempriere, part-owned in China, retains a 30% stake. Ferrier has bought 15% of CWH from Lempriere, 27.5% from Cavalier Corporation, 13.75% from ACC and 13.75% from privateequity group Direct Capital. The Auckland businessman is confident on the efficiency and international costcompetitiveness of the scours and of the future for wool and is excited to be back in the business. His father set up wool scours in NZ and Ferrier was in partnership for a time with the Cavalier group scours as well as playing a major role in industry rationalisation involving the Godfrey Hirst scour business. He did not expect to be an owner again. For one thing, he had been on a long-term restraint of trade, effective until last December. However, about a year ago, he sensed there might be an opportunity and approached the owners. “I’d been in with Cavalier and I think they had all been through an arduous process with the Commerce Commission and that had beaten some of them down a bit so they had difficulty moving it forward.” The commission process involved the merger of the CWH business with the scour division of NZ Wool Services International (WSI), owned at the time by Lempriere. It took a year of talking but Ferrier persevered and ended up with what looks like a good deal for him. The only indication of price is from Cavalier Corporation, which as an NZX-list company is subject to disclosure rules. According to a release by NZX, Cavalier sold its 27.5% stake for $11m, as part of a $28m price paid by the Ferrier interests for the 70% stake. As well, Cavalier owns 50% of a property leased to the scour business. ACC and Direct Capital owned the balance of the land. The price paid for the property was $3m. Cavalier said its total cash return was $13.5m. The Cavalier stake had a June 30 book value of $25.3m so the $11.8m discount is an interesting figure given how long the parties had been talking. Ferrier acknowledged a “good” price below book-value but said time will tell. “It is still a lot of money and what can be a good price one day might no be so good the next day. I think it is a reasonable price.” Cavalier was not an enthusiastic seller but its return had not been as good as hoped for. The scour trading company Cavalier Wool Scours is now known as NZ Wool Scouring and Ferrier has brought back former Cavalier scours chief executive Nigel Hales as chief executive of the new business. He regards Hales as the best scour company operator anywhere and says he will be backed up by a great workforce. As well as the main Awatoto plant, NZ Wool Scouring will upgrade the group’s Clive plant to be a more effective peak period scourer. Ferrier expects Lempriere to remain committed to its continuing 30% stake. Lempriere’s WSI wool trading business will be a major customer for the scours. Lempriere’s Tony McKenna and Ferrier are the directors of NZ Wool Scouring. Cavalier Corporation has already said it has entered into a long-term contract for scour services. Chairman Alan Clarke confirmed that the company will use the sale funds to pay down debt and focus on the core manufacturing and marketing of high-end carpets. Cavalier is confident of improving margins and achieving quality earnings, he said.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Adverse Events Scheme set to go Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz THE Government is planning to repeal the Adverse Events Scheme that smooths tax liability following an extreme event but say the process will be retained in other legislation. The Adverse Events Scheme lets farmers and rural businesses smooth extreme income earned through an adverse event such as drought, flood or a Mycoplasma bovis cull and later spending for restocking. Inland Revenue has proposed retaining the scheme by amending an existing law and including improved aspects of the scheme. An IRD spokesman said a review of the scheme’s provisions found it is inflexible when compared to corresponding schemes. “As a result, very few farmers have used the AES, instead preferring to make income equalisation deposits into the main scheme to take advantage of its more flexible terms for deposits and withdrawals.” IRD said proposed changes would allow the amalgamation of those using the scheme along with some minor clarifications to the mechanics of the new income equalisation scheme for deposits

We believe the Adverse Events Scheme should be retained and enhanced. John Cuthbertson Chartered Accountants

KEEP IT: Mycoplasma bovis has caused a surge of interest in the Adverse Events Scheme that allows farmers to smooth out tax bills, accountants say.

and withdrawals related to the replacement of livestock following an adverse event. Chartered Accountants Australia New Zealand tax and financial services leader John Cuthbertson said the original

scheme should be retained because of an expected surge in interest caused by Mycoplasma bovis. “Rather than repealing the scheme and transferring taxpayers to the main income equalisation

scheme as proposed, we believe the Adverse Events Scheme should be retained and enhanced.” Cuthbertson said the low uptake was likely to lift if feedback from accountants is any indication. It is fit for purpose.

Have you read Dairy Farmer yet?

“In the case of M bovis and similar events, affected farmers could likely earn significant income from forced stock sale or culling yet still be required to repurchase, often more expensive, healthy stock in the following year. “The clear benefits of the scheme are the ability to earn interest over a short period to account for stock supply and price fluctuations and the certainty of early withdrawal from the scheme, unlike the main income scheme where deposits have a minimum 12-month term.” If the scheme is repealed the replacement should be amended to ensure fairness for those transferring or changes introduced to the livestock valuation rules to deal with livestock replacement after an adverse event.

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News

22 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Government blamed for pessimism Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz GROWING pessimism among dairy farmers has sent confidence plunging into negative territory for the first time since early 2016. The quarterly Rabobank Rural Confidence Survey of 450 farmers reveals confidence in the agricultural economy has fallen from plus 2% in June to minus 3% in September. Those expecting an improvement in the next 12 months fell from 26% to 20% while those expecting conditions to worsen rose slightly from 23% to 24%. Rabobank New Zealand manager Hayley Gourley said the decline was driven by dairy farmers and was not surprising given the drop in dairy commodity prices and Fonterra trimming the farmgate milk price by 25c kg MS to $6.75 kg MS.

This makes sheep and beef farmers the most positive of all the sector groups in relation to their own business performance. Hayley Gourley Rabobank “Dairy farmer confidence in the agricultural economy fell sharply with the net confidence reading among dairy farmers dropping from +14% last quarter to -9% in this survey,” she said. Conversely confidence lifted among sheep and beef farmers, jumping from minus 6% in June to plus 7%. “Sheep farmers are having a good run with intense procurement competition for tight lamb supply seeing unprecedented farmgate prices this season. “A weaker NZ dollar is also underpinning price support for red meat returns and we anticipate elevated prices to

continue over coming months.” Concerns with Government policies led to 26% of farmers predicting the agricultural economy will worsen in the coming year. Of those surveyed, 43% are concerned by Government policies followed by falling commodity prices, 31%, and overseas markets, 22%. “The Government has signalled upcoming changes in relation to freshwater management, biodiversity, greenhouse gas emissions, foreign investment requirements for farmland ownership and the Dairy Industry Restructuring Act. “And while the exact form, timing and ultimate impact of these pending changes on the agricultural sector is still unknown it’s clear these changes are weighing on the minds of some NZ farmers,” she said While expectations for their own business performance fell from the last quarter, levels remained higher than confidence in the broader agricultural economy. A third thought their businesses would improve, down from 39%, while 13% thought they would worsen, up from 10%. Horticulturists are also less confident in their own business but the decline came off a high level of plus 46%, falling to plus 11%, driven by the view the run of improving returns for their produce could be coming to an end. But 85% of growers expect their own business conditions to improve or stay the same, which Gourley said shows the sector is still in strong health. Conversely, nearly a third of sheep and beef farmers have confidence their own business performance will improve, up from 19% in the last survey. “This makes sheep and beef farmers the most positive of all the sector groups in relation to their own business performance and you have to go back to late 2014 for the last time this was the case,” Gourley said. Investment intentions across the agricultural sector also eased in line with overall farmer

DIFFERENT VIEWS: A weaker dollar is underpinning red meat returns but dairy prices face uncertainty.

confidence, from 25% to 19% with just 26% of those surveyed expecting to investment more in the coming year. “Investment intentions dropped across all sectors, with horticulturists registering the largest fall, dropping to a net reading of 15% from 41% previously,” A Bayer NZ-Country Television State of the Rural Nation Survey has revealed half of respondents believe farming is a less attractive a career because of increased stress and financial security concerns. Despite that the survey revealed farmers had a sense of pride in the industry, with 97% viewing the industry as a key part of NZ’s identity. Opinion was evenly spilt at 39% for and against growing genetically modified organisms in NZ but males, 62%, were more supportive than female, 5%. Nearly 80% of rural respondents said they had less access to services and slower internet

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PESSIMISTS: Dairy farmers and horticulturalists are losing confidence while sheep farmers’ levels are the highest for five years, Rabobank New Zealand manager Hayley Gourley says.

because of their location and urban dwellers, younger people and men believe their quality of life is improving because of technologicl innovation. Rural women over the age of 40 felt less so.

Those living in rural areas and people aged over 55 were less likely to feel strongly about environmental sustainability compared to those living in urban centres and those aged 18-39.

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News

24 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Green values get higher priority Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz GROWTH in dairying in the South Island’s Mackenzie Basin has become a catalyst for a Government directive that environmental values be given a higher priority in the management of the South Island high country. Land Information and Conservation Minister Eugenie Sage said Land Information New Zealand has not taken sufficient account of ecological, biodiversity and landscape values when granting concessions to holders of Crown pastoral leases and she wants it to work more closely with the Conservation Department when making assessments. Sage also wants local authorities to provide greater protection of those values in the South Island high country, citing conflict from the expansion of dairying in the Mackenzie Basin. Conservation values and natural landscapes have always had legal protection but Sage said LINZ and local authorities have failed to look at the cumulative impact of their decisions when approving land use changes. “It has always been in the legislation but it is a law that has not been well implemented and often disregarded in the granting of discretionary consents and consideration of significant inherent values. “(The dairy conversion on) Simons Pass is an example of failing to consider the cumulative impacts of a one-off decision.” The granting of consent for a dairy farm on part of the freehold Simons Pass Station near Tekapo has provoked public criticism and accusations it will create pollution and is out of keeping with the region’s barren vegetation and landscape. Asked how the shift to environmental emphasis will affect a lessee’s request for a

burning concession, Sage said consideration had previously been dismissive of the impact on the ecology and significant inherent values and had contributed to a biodiversity crisis.

It has always been in the legislation but it is a law that has not been well implemented and often disregarded. Eugenie Sage Minister It could affect future decisions but each application will be considered case by case. Sage wants a long-term view taken with the management of environmental values, which are important for tourism, but she also said the Crown will not be exiting its role as a landlord of 1.2 million hectares of Crown pastoral lease land it owns and which is leased to 172 lessees. “As minister I will not be looking for the Crown to exit pastoral leases. I see a long-term role managing Crown pastoral lands.” Tenure review, which allows Crown pastoral lessees to freehold part of the lease in return for surrendering areas of high conservation value, had also resulted in land intensification and she has initiated discussion about the scheme’s future. “I don’t believe it is delivering the best outcome.” She wants a re-evaluation of the desired outcome of tenure review and ways to improve the process. “It’s looking at how we can do better and what is the future of tenure review.” Sage acknowledged tenure review has allowed the creation of 12 conservation parks but

EMPHASIS: Land Information and Conservation Minister Eugenie Sage has decreed ecological, biodiversity and landscape values will be given more weight when granting concessions to high country leaseholders.

there is public concern about the intensification of land made freehold. There are 35 pastoral leases going through tenure review but none has entered the process since 2016. In addition to working with other departments and organisations, LINZ will also be required to increase the quality of information and data it holds and on which it makes decisions on concessions. She has also established a High Country Advisory Group representing parties with various interests in the area, with the express interest of assisting LINZ adopt a new way of working in the high country.

Announcing the group’s membership in August, LINZ chief executive Andrew Crisp said it will provide advice to the Commissioner of Crown Lands and LINZ to assist with managing the land while also looking for collaborative projects, identifying examples of good practice and recommending work programmes. The group will meet on October 18. The position of Commissioner of Crown Lands is an independent, statutory office responsible for Crown land, including being landlord for pastoral and other lessees and consenting to activities on Crown land such as scrub clearing, felling

or planting trees and sowing seed. Sage said depending on the outcome of the policy work the commissioner’s role might change. Members of the High Country Advisory Group are Colin Drummond, farmer, Edward Ellison, Ngai Tahu, Jan Finlayson. Federated Mountain Clubs, James Guild, farmer and QE II Trust chairman, Mike Harding, environmental consultant, Geoff Holgate, ecologist and Walking Access Commission, Di Lucas, rural landscape planner and Nature Heritage Fund, Jen Miller, Forest and Bird, Jonathan Wallis, High Country Accord, Madeleine Wright, Environmental Defence Society.

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

McDonald’s lauds Maori beef farm Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz HAPU-OWNED Whangara Farms, on the East Coast north of Gisborne, has been accredited to the McDonald’s Flagship Farmers programme, the first such appointment in the southern hemisphere. Under general manager Richard Scholefield for the past 12 years, the 8500ha group has become the 28th Flagship Farmer for the worldwide restaurant chain and the seventh beef supplier. Whangara is a partnership of three Maori Incorporations – Whangara B5, Pakarae and Tapuwae Whitiwhiti – representing three hapu and 2500 shareholders. Whangara has undergone a McDonald’s audit of its sustainable management practices and is implementing a Land and Environment Plan

(LEP) drawn up with the Gisborne District Council and Beef + Lamb New Zealand. The farms complex carries 6500 cattle including 2500 Angus cows and 37,500 ewes, for a total 75,000 stock units spread across five business units. It is budgeted to make $454/ha economic farm surplus this year, more than twice the East Coast class 4 average. Whangara Farms management committee chairwoman Ingrid Collins said the McDonald’s accreditation is a huge honour for the governors, the manager, 16 staff and the shareholders. She is especially proud a Maoriowned group was chosen and from NZ ahead of Australia. McDonald’s NZ head of communications Simon Kenny said 10% of NZ beef goes to its restaurants in the United States, Asia, NZ and the Pacific.

SUSTAINABILITY: Whangara Farms on the East Coast hosted McDonald’s NZ communications head Simon Kenny, left, pictured with Whangara’s general manager Richard Scholefield and his wife Karen, and management committee chairwoman Ingrid Collins.

Whangara supplies Silver Fern Farms and the Anzco Foods patty plant at Waitara and has worked with B+LNZ on the Flagship sustainability programme through three technical audits and visits from McDonald’s global head of sustainability, Keith Kenny. “Flagship farmers engage with other farmers and ranchers by sharing their experiences and best practices around the three Es of responsibility — environmental

safeguarding, ethical practices and economic viability. “The programme profiles those at the very pinnacle of sustainability,” Keith Kenny said. When it was decided to expand the previously Europe-only McDonald’s Flagship Farmers best practice programme elsewhere in the world, beef production was the first focus because of its largest carbon footprint. Collins and Scholefield went to the McDonald’s worldwide

convention of 20,000 people in Orlando, Florida, earlier this year to present the Whangara and NZ beef stories. The Whangara Farms partnership was formed in 2006 between B5 and Pakarae and Tapuwae joined in 2015. They won the Ahuwhenua Trophy in 2009 and the citation of the judges said Whangara was the model of corporate farming in Maoridom, a model that is now spreading, Collins said.

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News

26 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Seeds buyer makes its case DANISH firm DLF Seeds says its research capability makes it a strong potential buyer of PGG Wrightson’s grains and seeds business. It wants Commerce Commission clearance for the $421 million purchase announced in August. DLF said there is limited overlap between the Wrightson seeds business and its own Canterburybased offshoot. DLF Seeds NZ was set up in 2004 and now employs 12 people. The Danish seeds company says its research background makes it a better prospect than other potential suitors to develop and expand Wrightson’s export capability. “DLF understands that PGW Seeds’ business is in a capitalconstrained position. “PGW Seeds’ ongoing research and development programme is significant, with a high demand on investment capital. “The current capital structure places demands on the business to yield dividends at a level which restricts its capacity to invest in the business adequately to maintain its market position,” the firm says in its 78-page application. PGW Seeds is one of the

largest producers in the southern hemisphere, with operations here and in Australia and South America. It accounted for almost a third of the Wrightson group’s $1.19 billion of revenue in the June year and more than half its $45m operating earnings. DLF was formed in 1872. It operates in 20 countries and is among the world’s 10 largest seeds suppliers with revenue in the June 2017 year of about $740m. When the deal was announced in August PGW said it would retain a close working relationship with the seeds business, which would benefit from being part of a larger global operation. PGW expects a gain on book value of more than $130m. DLF said PGW’s sales process didn’t identify any suitable local buyers. Other potential buyers could include Australian firms Elders and Ruralco and Dutch firm Barenbrug. “DLF believes that it has a much stronger scientific focus than Elders and Ruralco as potential purchasers, particularly in areas such as genomic selection and endophyte technology, meaning DLF will be better positioned to progress opportunities arising from this.

BIGGER: Combining DLF Seeds and PGG Wrightson Seeds will result in more exports from New Zealand as the firm exploits advantages from operating in both hemispheres.

“In relation to Barenbrug, as the owner of Agriseeds in NZ it would face more competition issues than DLF due to its much larger existing presence in NZ for forage seeds.” DLF said it is the market leader for turf seeds and cool season forage in the northern hemisphere while PGW has that position in the southern hemisphere.

Always on target

Putting the firms together will create a unique global supply chain, combine two leading genetic resources and increase investment. “The combined strength of DLF’s and PGW Seeds’ businesses will result in increased seed production and exports from NZ, including utilisation of counterseason production opportunities

in the southern hemisphere to speed up potential shortages within DLF’s network in the northern hemisphere.” Five-year projections of the expected increase in exports in the southern hemisphere and to Europe, North America and China were redacted from the public version of the application. – BusinessDesk

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

MONEY FLOWS: Nufarm made a loss of A$15.58 million last year and is raising A$300m but is still paying a final dividend of 11c a share.

Nufarm to bolster balance sheet Alan Williams alan.williams@globalhq.co.nz CROP protection group Nufarm is raising more than A$300 million to bolster its balance sheet after severe drought in Australia put a hole in its earnings. The new cash will also help fund its growth strategy, directors said. Melbourne-based Nufarm grew out of the old New Zealand Farmers Fertiliser (Fernz) and has traditionally been this country’s largest herbicide distributor though NZ is now a very small part of the worldwide business. It improved NZ earnings for the year but they aren’t disclosed, being included in the overall Australasia region figures. Nufarm reported a bottom-line loss of A$15.58m in the year ended July 31 after an A$98.4m after-tax profit was undone by one-off, after-tax charges of A$114m. The biggest part of that was an A$70m write-down on the Australian business, hit by Australia’s worst

autumn drought in 100 years and continuing very dry conditions through the winter in east coast regions. Outside of Australasia, the North America business performed well with Europe, Asia and Latin America ahead on revenues and fairly steady on earnings with the prior year.

Nufarm reported a bottom-line loss of A$15.58m in the year ended July 31.

Its A$963m gross profit came from Europe 28%, Latin America 26%, North America 21%, Australasia 12% and Asia 4%. A seed technology business provides the remaining 9% of gross earnings. The European season, including new acquisitions, was later than

usual, increasing working capital needs late in the year and leading to an operating cash outflow of A$88m for the year. Nufarm’s flagship herbicide product has been the cropprotection agri-chemical glyphosate, sold as Roundup. Herbicides made up 57% of gross earnings. Glyphosate on its own was at 12%. Glyphosate has taken on more controversy since a United States court case over its alleged cancerrisk, in which the court ruled against the product’s developer, Monsanto. Nufarm defended glyphosate strongly in its earnings presentation, saying it views the likelihood of it being removed from grower use as low. All major regulatory authorities have concluded glyphosate is unlikely to be carcinogenic when used in accordance with label instructions and that is supported by more than 800 scientific studies and reviews over many decades.

“A federally funded US agriculture study, completed in 2017, which followed more than 89,000 people, including farm works and their families, for more than 20 years, concluded that no association was apparent between glyphosate and any solid tumours or lymphoid malignancies overall.” Environmental and food safety regulators in the US, Europe and Australia employed rigorous processes and did years of analysis and reviews before products like glyphosate were approved for use, Nufarm said. It has been safely and effectively used by growers for more than 40 years. Nufarm’s total revenues for the year were A$3.3 billion across the herbicide, insecticide and fungicide range and the new Seed Tech business, which is performing well and is due to commercialise an Omega-3 canola product in the next couple of years, subject to final regulatory approvals.

Australian and NZ revenues in the 2018 year were A$590m, down from A$654m a year earlier. NZ can typically provide 10% to 15% of the sales. While Australia was very difficult, the NZ business performed well, benefiting from growth in the pasture and horticulture markets, the company said. At balance date Nufarm had total assets of A$5.5 billion and total liabilities of $3.08b, including borrowings of $A1.97b. Net finance costs were A$118m, out of the total operating earnings before interest and tax figure of $265m. The company is in the process of raising A$303m from the rights issue, with shareholders able to buy three new shares for every 19 shares already owned, at a price of A$5.85. An institutional offer of new shares has also been made. Despite being asked for more cash, shareholders, including a solid NZ retail investor base, will get a final dividend of 11c a share.

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News

28 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Groups move to reign in council rates experience year in, year out with their rates bills. “We are looking at about a 60% increase in rates nationally EQUAL amounts of rural and over the past 10 years. It has residential frustration at rates consistently outstripped the rises have prompted a Nelson Consumer Price Index (CPI). man to lead a push to form a Often there is no reason given as national ratepayers’ lobby group to why.” to pressure central government His claim is supported by data over rating costs. from Federated Farmers’ State Auctioneer and Nelson of the Gap analysis, an annual Ratepayers Association head John comparison of growth in rates Walker is receiving expressions compared to other cost indices. of interest for next month’s That reveals a rates increase conference that will be the over the past five years of 29% inaugural gathering of a national compared to less than 6% on the ratepayers’ group. CPI and still up on councils’ own “There has been interest from Local Government Cost Index, Reporoa, Westland, Tauranga and which has increased 16% in the Rotorua. Numbers are probably same period. leaning more towards the North The Local Government Cost Island but that fits given the Index measures areas specific population spread,” he said. to local government including Walker said in all cases roading and infrastructure cost ratepayers have had a gutsful of increases. the continuing increases they Walker expects a big contingent of ratepayers from Mangawhai, northeast of Auckland to attend. Their district was ravaged by major council AWDT Understanding Your Farming Business & Wahine cost blowouts Maia, Wahine Whenua in the district’s 3 full day workshops and an evening graduation ceremony run sewerage system over four months. Registrations for 2019 programmes are now open. Visit the in 2000 that website for dates, locations and to register. resulted in a Website: To register visit www.awdt.org.nz/programmes doubling of the Contact: anna@awdt.org.nz or 06 375 8180 for more scheme’s cost to information $26 million, to RMPP Action Network – Facilitator training courses serve only 2200 For rural professionals or farmers looking to run an Action properties. Group under RMPP Action Network. No course fees. Register at www.actionnetwork.co.nz/training Walker has strong sympathy Lead Facilitator workshops • East Coast/Gisborne 16 & 17 October for rural • Wellington 4 & 5 December ratepayers tasked Action Network Fundamentals & Extension Design with supporting workshops the bulk of many • Hawke’s Bay 17 & 18 October district council • Invercargill 24 & 25 October funding models. • Whangarei 7 & 8 November “The issues • East Coast/Gisborne 13 & 14 November • Christchurch 12 & 13 December for farmers are For more info contact info@actionnetwork.co.nz not only about Wednesday 17/10/18 & Thursday 18/10/18 the cost of rates NZGSTA Annual Conference and Book Launch but also about For members and associates of the NZGSTA the impact2000 Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz

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Wednesday 31/10/18 Rural Business Network Positioning for a very different future – Dr Warren Parker Venue: Barge Showgrounds Events Centre, Whangarei Time: 5.30pm - 7.30pm Website: https://my.youngfarmers.co.nz/rbn/events

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the Resource 1800 Management Act and regulations 1600 are having on their business 1400 costs. In many cases the level 1200 of services is also pretty low.” 1000 The state of many rural 800 roads is of particular concern. 600 “It used to be 400 they were not sealed so would 200 be maintained regularly with a 0 2007

BIG BUCKS: It is not uncommon for farmers to have $50,000 rates bills, Federated Farmers policy adviser Nigel Billings says.

grader. Now many are sealed but they have had little repairs done on them since being sealed and are in a terrible state.” He is confident interest will cover about 70% of the country. He is also aware the group will focus its lobbying efforts on central government. “There is a sense there that central government is setting the rules and taking the money but not returning much to the regions.” Federated Farmers’ long time rates campaigner and policy adviser Nigel Billings welcomed the group’s formation. He believes it represents growing unhappiness at how the rating model is no longer an effective means of revenue collection for councils. “Their timing is good. “For most of our members a 5-15% increase year on year with no noticeable changes to service levels they receive is pretty typical. “We tell councils they are not only outstripping the CPI but also their own Local Government Cost Index and they really just shrug at that.” It is not uncommon for farmers to have a $50,000 rates bill.

“Our biggest issue is the use of property values to determine rates. “Whether it is an old pensioner at Matua, Tauranga, with a sea view or a pastoral farmer, the pressure is on both every year regardless of their income.”

The issues for farmers are not only about the cost of rates but also about the impact the Resource Management Act and regulations are having on their business costs. John Walker Nelson Ratepayers Assn He believes local government is not entirely to blame, operating under rules set by central government with expectations to enforce them. “It is a mix of ham-fisted council bureaucracy, an ease of

cost-plus mentality and a central government that treats local government as a convenient place to place problems.” Some rural areas like Ruapehu and the West Coast also face the complex problems of dwindling population and increased tourist numbers pressuring a diminished infrastructure. “There does not appear to be a clear enough line where central and local government should start and stop.” Billings said the federation intends to engage with the Productivity Commission review of local government, due to being soon. “If anyone will look around the nooks and crannies of local government and not be overwhelmed by it, they will. “We want to really challenge the commission to put numbers on the table.” He confirmed the long-held view 1% should be added to GST to fund local government activity is still in play with the federation and is still a valid funding alternative to the constrictions of rated council income. The ratepayers’ group meeting is to be held in Nelson on November 10-11.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Mop-top spud virus is a mystery Annette Scott annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz POTATO growers are in wait and see mode as tests on a new potato virus found on Canterbury farms are analysed. Biosecurity New Zealand is working with Potatoes NZ to respond to a detection of the potato mop-top virus in tubers on two Mid Canterbury farms. While it is not a food safety issue it could cause productivity issues for growers if it becomes widespread, BiosecurityNZ incident controller David Yard said. It is a notifiable and unwanted organism in NZ under the Biosecurity Act. So far tubers from two Mid Canterbury properties have tested positive for the virus with further sampling under way in the district. Samples are being taken from growers, seed lines and processors to find out how far the virus has spread. Ashburton potato grower Dave Redmond said there’s a lot to be learnt about the disease as it’s the first time it’s been found in NZ. “We really don’t know much at all right now. There’s a lot of testing still to come back. Well,

actually, we have no results at this stage. “No-one knows a lot about the disease and we will go through the process of finding out where it’s come from and how we can help solve it.” A meeting organised by Potatoes NZ in Ashburton recently, at which Biosecurity NZ updated growers on the initial response, was positive and helped inform farmers how it’s all going to work, Redmond said. “We don’t know when there will be any results and so, in the meantime, we are business as usual.” This is the optimum time for planting and spuds still have to go in the ground. Many countries have the virus and are dealing with it without too much issue. “We don’t know where it came from, how it got here, what we do about it or what it may mean but a lot of countries have it and it doesn’t seem to be a major problem but we will see what the tests tell us and how BiosecurityNZ moves from there.” Growers expect BiosecurityNZ will rely on past overseas efforts to control the virus in NZ. Redmond said growers have experience dealing with the

tomato potato psyllid and will be feeling their way with the new virus. He doesn’t expect it to affect trading. Potatoes NZ chief executive Chris Claridge said the affected potatoes are from the Innovator variety, which is used only for potato chips. “The industry is working closely with BiosecurityNZ to learn more about the virus, the impact it could have on growers and to stop any risk of spread. “We will then consider if it is possible to eradicate it or whether we will need to work with growers to manage its impact over the long term.” Innovator was last imported as germplasm in July 2011. Germplasm is tested for the virus before its release. It is understood a small number of tubers are also brought into the country. The initial focus of tests will be on other farms with Innovator but the tests will be extended to other varieties including potatoes for hash browns and other products Affected potatoes can display symptoms including distortions to the skin, deep cracking and rustcoloured arcs, streaks or flecks in the flesh.

CARRY ON: Ashburton potato grower Dave Redmond says it’s optimum planting time and spuds must still go in the ground. Photo: Annette Scott

The transfer of soil is a common theme for spreading viruses and growers can step up their farm biosecurity by cleaning machinery. The virus is common overseas including in North and South America and parts of Europe and Asia but isn’t found in Australia.

So far chemical treatments have yet to be found for the virus and overseas efforts appear to be concentrating on breeding virus-resistant potatoes and using fungicides, crop rotations and planting certified seed potatoes. Fact sheets and guidance are being drawn up for growers.

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Newsmaker

30 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Good health habits fuel top farmers The success of a farm can be traced back to the people running it. So rather than running themselves into the ground award-winning farmers Richard and Becks Tosswill make sure they are relaxed. They attribute the health of their enterprise to their healthy habits and the Farmstrong programme.

AIRARAPA sheep and beef farmers Richard and Becks Tosswill recently won this year’s Greater Wellington Ballance Farm Environment Award recognising excellence in sustainable farm practice. A focus on wellbeing and worklife balance helped get them there. The Tosswills have farmed their 646-hectare property near Gladstone for nearly a decade. They run up to 5800 stock units on the hill country Richard loves working. They also have three young kids – Isabella, 9, Sam, 7, and Sophie, 4, – so life’s plenty busy. The local climate brings its share of challenges. “Going into Christmas last year was as hard as I’ve experienced it,” Richard said. “Late spring, early summer was really tough. “It just became so much drier earlier than normal and we got stuck with a couple of mobs of lambs that we couldn’t shift. “The price was bottoming out. It was stressful. But then we got a whole lot of rain, grew a heap of grass and we’ve come out of things quite nicely. “That’s where experience helps a lot. However, a bit of luck helps too. “You get to a point where you realise you can control only the things you can control. “I caught up with a young local farmer the other day and

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told him, ‘Look, you’ve got everything in place, you’ve got stock in good condition and good covers. You’ve done all the things you can control. But you have to be realistic and accept that sometimes Mother Nature can come through and ruin things’.” Richard says the fact he’s learnt to step back, look at the bigger picture and enjoy his farming wasn’t lost on the judges. “We didn’t just win because of the trees we planted. “The judges looked at the sustainability of our whole enterprise – our planning, people, finances and our contribution to the community.” Richard says a key aspect of the farm’s success is the way he manages his own wellbeing. He tries to eat well, gets plenty of rest, looks after his body, catches up with mates regularly and takes breaks – whatever it takes to stay fresh and motivated. “I’m pretty cheap to run but I’ve got a lot of better at snacking on muesli bars, drinking water and taking my breaks during the day to keep up my energy levels.” The farm is all the better for these healthy habits, he says. “If you haven’t got good energy, I don’t reckon you make good decisions. You think ‘oh I can’t be bothered getting those ewes in and weighing them’. All the little things that might mean an extra 5% gain.”

RELAXED: Award-winning Wairarapa sheep and beef farmer Richard Tosswill hard at work.

If you haven’t got good energy, I don’t reckon you make good decisions. Richard Tosswill Farmer Richard gets a real buzz out of coaching kids’ rugby on Thursday afternoons and Saturday mornings. “The team has just started playing tackle rugby and scored a brilliant try on Saturday. It was just awesome.” He’s also recently added early morning warm-up stretches into the mix to keep himself in better shape. “I’m near 40 now and not as supple as I used to be. “It just loosens everything up and means I’m good to go for the day ahead. It’s been like putting CRC on my joints.” Richard’s also heavily involved in his community – previously chairing the Ponatahi Discussion Group and now the Wairarapa

Farming for Profit Group for the past three years. He recently became involved in the Wairarapa Farm Innovation Project too. It is establishing clover on previously uncultivable east coast hill country. “These are all great opportunities to get off farm, hear new ideas and make friends,” he said. Planning and scheduling are key to turning good intentions into improved wellbeing. All activities are diaried well in advance and non-negotiable. Richard says he’s noticed too many farmers are reluctant to discuss their wellbeing till they reach a crisis point. He’s working hard to change that mindset and has been helping to promote nationwide, rural wellbeing initiative Farmstrong in his region. “Farmers are often quick to upgrade the quad and service the truck but won’t get their health checked, work on their fitness or look after themselves. “We need to change that and Farmstrong has some great tools and resources to help on its website.

“The old farmer can be a pretty difficult breed. “As an industry we need to learn how to cope better with the ups and downs and remove any stigma around talking about these issues. “People need to recognise when they are under the pump and do something about it. “Talk to your partner, talk to your friends, keep an eye out on your mates. If people aren’t turning up at field days and farm discussion groups get in touch with them. “The reality is farming can be a psychologically challenging job. You drive up a road and think ‘bugger, there’s post that needs fixing’ then 50m ahead, ‘oh no, the trough’s leaking’ or ‘there’s a dead animal’. “Farm work is never done and the pressure of work and the isolation can really build up. That’s why you’ve got to look after yourself. “You can’t just be head down, bottom up and chasing your tail all the time in farming or you’ll burn out. Your wellbeing has to come first.”

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New thinking

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Study values pests and controls Pasture pests are chomping almost 1% a year off New Zealand’s GDP, and as much as this is, researchers are celebrating finally having a firm number to hang their future pest research upon. Richard Rennie spoke with AgResearch lead scientist Colin Ferguson about what surprises and insights the research has provided.

F PEST researchers had a most-wanted hit list identifying the worst pests in New Zealand pastures the latest research puts grass grub as number one offender. Based on a new economic impact study grass grub makes the dubious claim of inflicting almost $600 million of damage a year on pastures, about a quarter of the $2.3 billion of losses a year caused by an assortment of pests along the length of the country. In a research first, the study went beyond simply calculating the amount of foliage eaten or reductions in pasture production. “This time we went a step further and worked to calculate what the losses were in terms of actual production, the value of the milk or meat that could not be produced as a result of that pasture loss,” AgResearch lead scientist Colin Ferguson said. Essentially, measuring the opportunity cost of the pests’ impact has delivered some eye-watering figures that will now provide researchers with solid grounds to base economic decisions on when seeking control agents for any of the pests. For grass grub, dairy farms wear about $380m a year and drystock about $205m a year. The research is based on values earlier determined for pasture and clover with pasture estimated in 2016 to be worth $14.6b to NZ’s GDP and clovers $2.4b. But this figure for clover has also been estimated to be worth more, with one unpublished work putting it at $4.1b. Other significant pests identified by the report, and with a price on their heads, include black beetle, Argentine stem weevil, clover root weevil and porina. The research is even more seminal in light of the lack of work

done in the past 25 years on pest impacts. The report reveals between 1992 and 2016 only 3% of the research done on pests looked at estimating their economic impact. That compares to 30% of the research done when government-funded agency research was almost at its peak between 1972 and 1981. The concerning thing for modern researchers is that farm systems and pasture species have changed significantly since much of that work was done but there has been no updated research to take account of that. Ferguson said the findings don’t hold any major surprises for the researchers in terms of what the main suspects are but he was enlightened at the significance of the black beetle in the overall suite of pests. “I think if you are from up north you will understand full well the impact of the black beetle. For us down south it was quite an eye-opener in terms of national importance.” The beetle is now distributed throughout the North Island, including much of Waikato and Bay of Plenty, even extending along coastal margins to Foxton and Hawke’s Bay. Sporadic outbreaks can cause widespread and severe damage across these regions and they have few natural enemies. The need for pasture renewal has doubled under black beetle outbreaks over the past 24 years, with only endophytes appearing to help deter it. Having some numbers around the pests’ costs is likely to help researchers in coming years as they work through possible control options. Ferguson said AgResearch is examining a number of options for pest management including biopesticide controls.

CALCULATING: AgResearch scientist Colin Ferguson assesses the effectiveness of biopesticides against porina.

Knowing the cost of pests and the contribution their control agents make should provide an easier pathway in future to funding new controls and methods. Colin Ferguson AgResearch “Usually for biopesticides we are talking about things like fungi or bacteria. There is one in the market now for grass grub, and others in the pipeline including one which has given promising results against Black Beetle and porina.” Some earlier research found Black Beetle populations, both larvae and adults, can be affected by a small RNA virus that reduces their fecundity and length of life. He likens the endophyte used to control Argentine stem weevil more as a biological control agent. “In the case of endophytes,

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if you could put an economic value on that, it would be really significant but it is difficult to do. “The natural state for perennial ryegrasses and some other species is a symbiotic relationship with endophytes, the value of that is probably immense in terms of pest management. On top of that the value of improved endophytes is between $336m and $525m per year.” The development of endophytes used in modern ryegrasses for Argentine stem weevil control have also had a halo effect with activity identified against other pests like black beetle and porina. Biological control organisms have had mixed success in NZ and the report has also proved important in putting a value on one of the country’s success stories, the wasp M. aethioppoides introduced in 2006 to control clover root weevil, discovered in 1996. A very conservative estimate for clover root weevil’s effect if left untreated was a massive $391m a year. However, the beneficial effect of the wasp has been similarly very conservatively estimated at $156.5m a year from this year

onwards and the continuing $234m a year damage still leaves a strong case for further control development. Ferguson said while the wasp has been an outstanding success the research data and other work also highlights risks biological controls can face. A wasp introduced to control Argentine stem weevil is having declining success after a good start because it is parthenogenetic – only female larvae are produced, with no male DNA to improve genetic variability. “The Argentine stem weevil appears to be withstanding the wasp more than it did and we are working to try and determine why that is the case. “We have a very similar situation with clover root weevil and are very aware a similar situation could arise with that pest. Unlike for Argentine stem weevil there is no back-up for clover root weevil control and that should have alarm bells ringing. “Knowing the cost of pests and the contribution their control agents make should provide an easier pathway in future to funding new controls and methods,” Ferguson said.

Opinion

32 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

EDITORIAL

Primary production still drives economy

HE primary sector is Zealand’s economic gift that keeps on giving. Recent data underlines the economy’s continued reliance on farmers and growers, reinforcing the high threshold a new industry would have to meet to replace this economic powerhouse. Tourism is certainly enjoying prosperity but the jobs are predominantly low paid and seasonal, staff are transient and the public are far from endeared by the mass of visitors. Numbers can drop quickly if fuel prices rise or there is a security scare and society remains unconvinced at the ability of visiting drivers, the environmental impact from freedom campers and pressure on infrastructure. The consistent performance of the primary sector has been highlighted by the latest Statistics NZ data. Gross domestic product for the June 2018 quarter grew 1%, of which agriculture, forestry and fishing expanded 4.1%, driven by increased production and export prices. Even when the economy is not performing all that well, evident by the record $1.5 billion monthly trade deficit for August, the sector keeps on trucking, contributing in that period a massive 9.9% increase in meat exports, 17% from dairy and 18% from forestry. All this reinforces the none-too subtle message that in business, as in sport, consistency will always win but hamstringing a sector with compliance and cost risks damages the wider economy and spending and investment plans. It is a message, many could argue, that is not fully understood in Wellington. Plans to plant a billion trees might be a great sound bite but where is the analysis on the impact on primary production or rural communities? Similarly, making farmers accountable for greenhouse gas emissions makes a great slogan but not having the ability to measure emissions from individual farms makes it farcical as a tool to change behaviour. Perhaps the sector has been the architect of its own problems by being too successful, giving society year-round access to milk, fresh meat, vegetables and fruit regardless of the challenges farms and growers face.

Neal Wallace

LETTERS

More letters P37

We’ve had calf deaths too MY HUSBAND and I just read your article pertaining to unnecessary calf deaths. Oh my goodness, this was our calf rearing nightmare this year. I have never cried so many tears of trying to save these poor helpless calves bought in from a local farm. Once we got the calves home we queried why there was blood in their faeces. Might they have had a hard birth, have they had enough colostrum? We asked the supplier these questions, trusting as we were. Then the deaths started and spread through our shed, now also developing into rotavirus and salmonella as the immune systems are compromised.

They hit rock bottom rapidly. Vets recalled many times, remedies galore as each presented itself as a harsher version. We informed the dairy calf supplier as soon as the crypto was identified who then revealed that’s what she had in her shed last year. Where is the comeback and support for our huge vet bill and money flushed down drain due to the many deaths we had, not to mention the stress of sleepless nights and heartbreak we felt for each little calf suffering a most terrible death. We vigilantly prepare our sheds so they are continuously sprayed and animals cared for. Rapidly getting them out in paddocks, they still died.

Thank you so much for this wonderful article as it is a comfort to know we are not alone with these thoughts and feelings of exactly what has been expressed here and totally support every word written. Cherie Edwards Waikato

It’s your fault I HAVE reared calves for 30odd years. My losses sit around zero to 3% a year. So, no, Patricia Hosking, I am not going to blame everyone else for your calves dying like you have. I am going to blame you. Here’s why. Your losses every year are in the 9% to 25% range. That

is simply appalling. Too many people rear too many calves. They stuff too many in their sheds. When they get a sick shed they don’t get them out of it. Instead, they buy more calves. They use too little milk. Too much meal. They spend too little time inspecting what they are going to buy. They pay too much for calves, so rear more to make it pay. They dont’ check their navels. They don’t refuse to buy smaller, younger calves. They don’t check for dehydration. When they get a scour bug Continued page 37

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Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

More lamb loss research needed Dr Sue McCoard

EVERE lamb losses in recent weeks, as a result of spring storms, have sparked a fresh debate about what more our farming sector can or should be doing to prevent deaths on such a scale. One report estimated 100,000 lambs were lost in the eastern and central North Island alone while the deep south was also hit by big dumps of snow – the oftenseen nasty sting in the tail of winter. It moved one social media commentator on farming to argue these kinds of losses are preventable and to call for a change in our expectations around lamb survival and our lambing culture. Losses like these are, of course, devastating for farmers and the public concern is also understandable. We have to acknowledge lambing at times where there is a risk of storms does come with inherent risks. In reality, there is only so much that can be done when the worst storms hit and the focus does need to be on how to reduce losses as much as possible. We now have a good understanding through research about the importance of shelter and how best to prepare animals for these type of weather events. However, when these events do strike, methods that are available are not always practical or easy to put in place or as effective as we would like. The wind-chill in these storms is certainly the biggest killer for newborn and young lambs and in that respect shelter makes the greatest difference in their survival. There is evidence ewes will use shelter if it is available though there might be a conflict with their instinct to be isolated when lambing. Shelter can take many forms including physical shelters like sheds to wind-breaks or long grass,

The

Pulpit

rushes or humps and hollows in the land. The risk, of course, with shelter, and this is where farmers might have had bad experiences affecting their approaches, is that where sheep congregate there is a risk of smothering of the lambs, mismothering and disease because of poor hygiene.

Our experience is that farmers are aware of the risks and generally provide the best environment they can for their stock.

Moving stock in large numbers in the middle of lambing can also cause more problems than it solves because of mismothering etc, meaning shelter has to always be within easy reach during lambing, posing a further challenge. Our research tells us what farmers do with their ewes before birth can make a real difference to the survival of the lambs when the cold weather strikes. Ewes that are well-fed and in good

condition generally will give birth to good sized, strong, viable lambs that have a greater chance of survival in severe weather events, given both the ewe and the lamb are more resilient. Lambs most at risk of dying in the bad weather are typically those with lower birth weight, poor body reserves (brown fat and muscle), lambs that are under-fed (often from ewes not milking well), those born to under-weight ewes or ewes with poor mothering ability that abandon their offspring at birth, those that went through a difficult birth that reduces their vigour and those unfortunate enough to be buried in snow or washed away in floodwaters or born or stuck in puddles. Our experience is that farmers are aware of the risks and generally provide the best environment they can for their stock. Many farmers also save up feed in spare paddocks or supplementary feed to provide to ewes when the weather turns nasty. We are also seeing some farmers split flock lambing now to reduce the risk of having all of their ewes lambing at the same time. Our role as researchers is to continue to provide the best evidence and guidance to farmers as they face these difficult issues around lamb survival. More research is certainly needed to identify ways to improve survival rates, especially where ewes have two or more lambs, presenting a higher risk for the lambs’ survival in poor weather. That is something we are firmly focused on. With more research, we can better work with farmers towards a long-term vision of where the sector and the public wants to be on these issues.

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NO CERTAINTY: AgResearch senior scientist Sue McCoard says there are limits to what farmers can do to protect lambs from bad weather and there are risks attached.

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Opinion

34 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Here’s a bit of wisdom for Sage Alternative View

Alan Emerson

THE Government must love Associate Environment Minister Eugenie Sage. Whereas James Shaw comes across as rational and prepared to listen, Sage comes across as anything but. The present she has handed the Opposition is her insistence on a cull of Himalayan tahr that’s gone round the maypole more times than a bunch of morris dancers. To declare an interest I am a keen deer shooter and have shot tahr and chamois. Sadly, in my geriatric state those animals are beyond me so I stick to red and fallow deer. Tahr stick to the tops and eat what little vegetation is available. According to Conservation Department literature woody species and herbs take up less than 25% of their diet. We’re told that R Goodleyanus is the only plant vulnerable to tahr grazing and that there is little likelihood of it becoming extinct. Be that as it may, tahr will eat vegetation and there are claims their numbers have exploded.

Another DOC paper does point out culling by private and professional hunters has lowered numbers. There was a moratorium on aerial hunting because it had reduced tahr numbers by 90%. So what’s the problem? Back when the DOC paper on tahr was written there were 15 operators killing 100 tahr. Now there are 100 operators killing 1200. According to DOC literature tahr has a breeding range of 7000 square kilometres and that’s a lot of country.

Using a shotgun to kill tahr is barbaric in my view.

A DOC paper in July 2018 estimates the tahr population at 45,633 with a 95% confidence interval. That means tahr numbers could be anywhere from 17,347 to 53,920. They’re worthless figures. We’re talking a lot of money. According to Canterbury tahr hunting guide John Royle a hunter will spend up to $10,000 hunting tahr depending on the method used. The hunter’s minimum contribution to the economy is estimated at $14,500. It’s a $48 million industry with hunters coming from the United States, Canada, Australia and

Europe. Combined with local hunters its worth over $200m. Having shot a tahr, hunters are likely to come back for a trophy chamois, red or fallow deer. New Zealand is the only place in the world where you can commercially hunt tahr and we’re going to cull them not knowing the real numbers, the damage they do and without any meaningful consultation. According to DOC there was going to be a meeting of the Tahr Liaison Group on September 29. What a ridiculous situation. All of the decisions were set in concrete long before then. In response to a National Party media release questioning the cull, Sage rode into the fray accusing them of not understanding conservation. It’s a stupid statement. I might not always agree with Dr Nick Smith but I’d never accuse him of not understanding conservation. Then, in response to another question, Sage told the nation DOC will be using shotguns (to kill tahr) the same way as hunters use guns to kill them. She seems to have no idea what she’s talking about. I’ve used a shotgun often but never to kill anything larger than a hare or a duck. Using a shotgun to kill tahr is barbaric in my view. I’m only surprised SAFE and the SPCA haven’t become involved but as it’s not farmers they’re inevitably not interested. National’s conservation

TROPHY: Overseas hunters will pay big money to hunt tahr in New Zealand, the only country where they can be legally shot.

spokeswoman Sarah Dowie is highly critical of the cull. She accused Sage of making the decision to kill the tahr based on anecdotal evidence and without a proper consultation process. She has a valid point. She added conservation should be based on science, not ideology. I agree but Sage isn’t known for her reliance on scientific facts. That is understandable as she studied law and history not science, yet that doesn’t stop her waxing eloquently on tahr, irrigation, glyphosate or anything else that comes to mind. Dowie said she would have consulted extensively before making any decision. That Sage didn’t consult means 33,000 signatures were attached to a petition opposing the cull and $157,316 for a legal challenge was raised in short order by 1816 donors. She has now been forced to back down. If she hadn’t she

would have been hit with legal papers and a well co-ordinated media campaign. It is a ridiculous and pointless state of affairs. If she had initially consulted rather than riding into the fray wielding a big stick the politically embarrassing impasse would never have occurred. The Tahr Foundation is an inclusive body with the approach of managing tahr to provide sustainable hunting while conserving alpine vegetation. Why not consult it at the start and not wait until you’re at the wrong end of a media campaign. Finally, I’m generally a strong supporter of DOC but it didn’t cover itself with glory on this one.

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

Lamb fishing brings surprising results From the Ridge

Steve Wyn-Harris

EVERY August for the last 35 years part of my daily ritual each morning and evening is to go around the stud ewes and tag the new stud lambs. Even when I was younger it had to be twice a day because it is surprising how fast a 24-hour old lamb can run. Now in my 60th year, even at 12 hours old they are fast enough. I’ve taken to using a fishing net now, which I use at times and is also handy for popping one of the triplet lambs under and standing on the handle while I deal with their siblings. Being on my own I’ve always worried I might be crook or injured at this time of year but to date have been fortunate. There are still a lot of fellow stud breeders who tag at birth but many of the bigger studs rely on

the DNA samples taken at docking or weaning to set parentage. I use DNA to verify parentage of the top 10% from whence the stud rams come and to add to the DNA information used by SIL. Tagging at birth allows one to observe mothering ability, teat placement, udder size, get lamb birth weights and do an early assessment of the lambs. And you get to see some odd things. Usually around auntie behaviour as we have been breeding for good mothering ability for 50 years but sometimes they just go too far. I’ve got two examples from this year that really take the cake. Let’s start with 50/16 (her actual identity to protect the innocent). On August 22 she had a nice set of triplets. An older lamb was hanging around and pinching milk so I tagged the triplets then caught and dropped him off on the other side of the paddock. Next day he was back with the triplet ewe and she was certain he plus the three new ones were hers. Once again I was able to catch him, checked his tag and my notebook told me his dam’s number so I rode around looking

RECOGNITION: Lambing can be a confusing time for elderly farmers.

for her finally realising it was in fact 50/16. Eleven days earlier she had been recorded having had two lambs, the other now apparently with another ewe. He had stripped all the colostrum and she had come into milk 11 days early and done a good job rearing him but he had to go. I saw the other three the other day and they don’t seem to have suffered greatly. As an older lamb he wasn’t

too happy being in the lost lamb pen and after some difficulty I managed to get him mothered onto a lost lamber that was likely surprised at the size of this newborn. Yesterday I had to shed out a ewe with two untagged lambs I’d somehow missed from a paddock I hadn’t been in for two or three weeks because they were well finished lambing a month earlier. These lambs looked a couple of weeks old.

I tagged them, took her number (441/15) and let her into a nearby paddock. However, my field notebook claimed she had lambed six weeks earlier. I went back and checked her number but knew it was right as I now remembered her from that paddock during tagging. I had found her with the scungiest of lambs, just 3kg and no dead twin anywhere to be found. She didn’t appear to have lambed and I suspected she was an auntie so kept an eye on her over the next week until I shedded that paddock but she was adamant this was her lamb and despite it being one of the most unappealing of sheep I’d seen, determined to rear it. But it wasn’t to be as a couple of weeks later, I’d picked that lamb up and fated it off as dead. She must have been surprised when a couple of weeks after ‘her’ lamb died, she gave birth to two sound and far more attractive ones.

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

Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Japan a country of contrasts Meaty Matters

Allan Barber

AFTER three weeks on holiday in Japan I am still reeling from the enormous contrast to any other country I have ever visited. When I first went there on business 40 years ago I was getting used to life in New Zealand after migrating from the United Kingdom so probably didn’t register the size of the contrast, apart from the total lack of any street signs in English and the politeness of the people. All these years later the differences in lifestyle and behaviour have become even more apparent, especially when set against the huge progress in infrastructure and technology around the world, a lot of it invented by the Japanese. Japan has a very orderly, monocultural society in which everyone, at least on the surface, appears to be comfortable with their status and how things work. However, Japanese conservatism and compliance with the law are driven by the desire to avoid social stigma. The most obvious demonstrations of these factors are people’s honesty, politeness and driving habits, which are diametrically different from almost any other country I can think of. Given Japan’s population of 127 million it is amazing, particularly to an Auckland resident, to see things move as well as they do. Nobody runs the traffic lights, all public transport services are frequent and on time and people insist on helping you if you look lost. In the last 40 years Japan has successfully adopted some aspects of Western life without compromising its true identity. McDonalds and Starbucks are evident but not everywhere and certainly not in such profusion that they threaten to take over

DIFFERENT: Rugby World Cup visitors to Japan will have to cope with a lack of Western drinking and eating facilities.

Beef production meets only 2% of local demand ... which makes the introduction of CPTPP very important for putting NZ beef imports on a more level playing field. from traditional Japanese restaurants and bars. It will be fascinating to see how visitors to Japan for the Rugby World Cup and Olympics cope with the relative lack of large Western style drinking and eating facilities or perhaps the Japanese will surprise by how they adapt to the invasion. The biggest challenge facing the country is the falling birth rate, now 1.43, and aging population. In 2017 deaths exceeded births by nearly 400,000 or 41% and the population is forecast to fall by a third by 2100 with an increasing proportion over 65. This makes NZ’s concerns about how to fund

national superannuation seem relatively minor. Japan is unique among firstworld countries because of the lack of immigration, with 98% of the population being Japanese who are either too old or unwilling to marry and have children. The birth rate has fallen from just over 2 in 1970 to the present level, the reasons for this not being immediately clear. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s government has relaxed immigration controls to allow firms to bring in workers, particularly in the construction industry, because there is an acute lack of labour, an unemployment rate of 2.5% and more than 1.5 jobs for every job seeker. It will be interesting to see how Japan adapts to the implications of playing a lead role in the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans Pacific Partnership and the effect on its agriculture of more exposure to imports. Its primary sector including agriculture, fishing and mining, constitutes 1.3% of GDP and only 20% of land is suitable for cultivation but farming

production is highly subsidised and most farmers earn the majority of their income from offfarm activities. Rice is by far the largest crop with most fertile land devoted to rice paddies to take advantage of subsidies. Until the end of World War II the primary sector employed half the national workforce but that declined sharply with the upsurge in industrial production and the resulting economic boom from the 1950s onwards. Beef production meets only 2% of local demand with the balance largely being met by Australia and the United States, which makes the introduction of CPTPP very important for putting NZ beef imports on a more level playing field. Despite the huge contrast between the two countries there are a number of problems in common facing both governments, though obtaining a mandate for change doesn’t appear to be as large a problem for Abe. He has been re-elected president of the governing Liberal Democrat party for a third term

and, assuming he wins the election in 2019, will be in sight of becoming Japan’s longest-serving prime minister ever. But he faces several challenges, not least being social security reform, notably introducing more sustainable medical and pension schemes to cope with the declining and aging tax base. Immigration remains a politically sensitive issue and immigrants are viewed as second-class citizens but maintaining a large enough workforce to sustain growth will clearly be a massive challenge. There are many contrasts, both between Japan and other Western countries and its Asian neighbours and in Japan itself, where younger people appear unwilling to work, live and build a family the way their parents and grandparents did. Japan’s post war economic miracle has come at a significant cost to its future sustainability.

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

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Opinion

36 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Time to talk about a wool levy Off the Cuff

Andrew Stewart

IT WAS the letter I had been expecting but I waited till it arrived to decide if the rumours were true. As is often the case in rural circles, speculation about a massive hike in shearing prices nationwide has been circling for most of 2018. Our local contractor sent a letter to all his clients saying the national body had decided on a universal increase of 25% effective from September 1. He explained last season’s shearing was especially difficult with many shearers deciding to chase bigger money overseas and not returning. Increasing health and safety obligations and employment contracts were also cited as becoming more time consuming and costly. We are lucky with our shearing contractor. We have enjoyed a great working relationship with him over two generations of farming.

His shearers are always polite to deal with, diligent and hard working and they leave our shed in the same state they find it – tidy, well prepared and ready to go. In my mind, even though the product is not returning what I would like financially, I am still going to do everything in my power to deliver the sheep and shed in the best possible condition. That is the only way I know that I am going to extract every cent from the fibre we are harvesting. Whether it was decided that because of increased prices for lamb the time was right for putting the hand out, we will never know. One thing I do know now, however, is that for the first time in my farming career shearing has moved past the tipping point of profitability to becoming a cost. And never before has any form of contractor turned around to me and told me overnight the price is going up 25%. So, this is uncharted territory and that is normally where the biggest shipwrecks occur. But though there is massive uncertainty about the future of the wool industry this could be an opportunity rather than a death rattle. In 2009 sheep and beef farmers voted against a wool levy continuing under then Meat and Wool NZ. At the time the vote was

not emphatic and another vote in 2014 showed about 56% of sheep and beef farmers voted against reinstating a wool levy, with 43% in favour. These results are hardly comprehensive and now is the time to consider revisiting the wool levy debate. The cost of shearing, price of wool and lack of any uniformity in the wool industry are all products of our own creation as sheep and beef farmers. If you strip away industry funding you can only expect the results to decline. We need to sit down and ask ourselves whether we are comfortable shearing sheep for a loss for the rest of our farming careers or do we need to stand up and fight united for what is a fantastic natural product. Our woolshed in Rangitikei has seen hundreds of young shepherds, local farmers and budding shearers trained during week-long shearing courses that have now disappeared because of a lack of industry funding. Their names are still proudly displayed on the wall and I am often told by random people they learned to shear in our shed. It has also seen a two stand world record smashed by Stacey and Hayden Te Huia who shore 986 strong wool ewes in eight hours back in 1999. This record stood unbeaten for 11 years and was an

ON SHOW: Overseas students enjoy a day’s shearing at Rangitikei Farmstay’s woolshed.

incredible event to be part of. Shearing will always be a part of farming for me so I am fully supportive of this price increase though I am wary that there might be a backlash from others. Now is the time to do something different. Let’s get talking about the wool levy again and if needed let’s put it to the vote again. We need to be courageous enough as an industry to say that maybe we did get it wrong with scrapping the wool levy all those years ago. A few cents per kilo of wool sold is not going to put a big dent in

our pockets in 2018 and it could be the funding boost we need to turn this whole situation around. Provided the levies raised are administered and distributed in the correct manor by the right people, wouldn’t we be crazy not to revisit this topic? The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.

Your View Andrew Stewart is a sheep and beef farmer and tourism operator in Rangitikei.

Diversity causes women trouble Different Perspectives male board. It had one position

Lindy Nelson

IN THE crusade to both normalise and encourage women as leaders and into our boardrooms many have latched onto the idea that women equal diversity. As this idea has been promoted there has been a collective sigh of relief based on an assumption it is now a socially comfortable way of advocating for gender equality. The problem is women don’t necessarily bring diversity. They bring gender difference, which is only one aspect of diversity. Equality, women and diversity have been confused and lumped together. In doing so, what diversity really is and the value it adds has not been fully explored. The idea women equal diversity also puts too much expectation on any woman in a leadership role to bring diversity to the table. Diversity is the responsibility of us all. The other day I received an email from an organisation looking for diversity for its all-

to fill. The requirement was for a woman, preferably young, Maori or Asian and professional with global experience, large networks and if she could have a tech background all the better. While I might have been able to support them find such a candidate I thought the requirements put a lot of pressure on one person to bring diversity to an entire board. What does the request say about what they think diversity is and what does it say about the other board members? Then there is the thinking diversity equals women, which equals fewer men. That is a seriously-flawed equation. Some of my worst public speaking moments have been taking the stage after someone who has just spoken about women and leadership then suggested what we need is more diversity and less male, pale and stale. This always gets a laugh from the audience and a grumpy response from me, which never makes a good first impression. We have to stop making these ridiculous, derogatory statements and stop believing them because we run the risk of doing real harm. On so many levels statements like this are wrong. An argument for change, in this case equality, is never won by denigrating other people. It assumes men of a certain race

DON’T BLAME US: Women don’t equal diversity and they shouldn’t be saddled with the responsibility for it.

and age will not bring diversity and women will. What actually brings diversity is the experiences we have had, how we think and our ability to shape and change the future by offering something new. It is true that leadership teams comprising people who share similar gender, ages and backgrounds will not deliver as good an outcome as a more diverse team. But we need to carefully define diversity and the skills, thinking and experience we are actually looking for. Lately, I’ve started to notice the idea that women equal diversity creep into pitches from women standing for board positions. Pick me, I’m your diversity choice. You’re not, you are a woman who might have had experiences that are different to your male

colleagues. You are not the diversity card. Most of us, when asked, can articulate diversity clearly. In a recent Agri-Women’s Development Trust Facebook post we asked women to tell us what diversity means to them. Not one of the many responses mentioned women. All saw diversity as crucial in providing the best outcomes. Some saw it as the brilliance that occurs through different, non-judgmental thinking and behaviour that occurs when diversity is present. I like this simple explanation. Diversity equals all the ways in which we are different that contribute to improved conversations and decisionmaking. Lawyer Mai Chen has just released an outstanding piece

of work titled Diverse Thinking Capability Audit of NZ Board Rooms 2018. It is a global first in exploring what diverse thinking really means for governance, how to increase it and the predictors of real diversity that go beyond gender and ethnicity. We know getting the right talent around the board table that contributes to the success of an organisation is just the first step. The next step is to ensure we have chairs and directors who can think differently about risks, problems and solutions. If we do not get beyond the stereotypes of what diverse thinking is, who brings diverse thinking and how best to encourage them to challenge and have different perspectives, we will not reap the benefits of diverse thinking. We also need to truthfully look ourselves in the eye and admit that when real diversity shows up in our teams and board rooms it can feel uncomfortable because, when true diversity is present, it will challenge your views and opinions, debate with you and show up your blind spots. That is exactly what is needed to produce the best decisions. In the disrupted, competitive, global environment our sector operates in we need to embrace diversity, see it for what it is and seek it in our leaders and directors by asking “Where is the proof that these people have brought diversity to the table?”.

Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Fonterra’s Chinese farms a sale target In the first of a two-part series putting Fonterra’s Chinese farms under scrutiny Keith Woodford describes how Fonterra trapped itself into factory farming. The focus of this issue is on the origins of how Fonterra managed to entangle itself in its loss-making China Farms project.

Keith Woodford

FONTERRA’S new leadership team of chairman John Monaghan, chief executive Miles Hurrell and chief financial officer Marc Rivers has made it clear in recent farmer meetings that debt reduction is a priority. All options are supposedly on the table. However, the only way to achieve rapid debt reduction is by selling non-strategic assets. In that context, Fonterra’s China Farms must surely be lined up in the crosshairs. Fonterra’s China Farms have been loss-making for at least four years. Accumulated losses over that period, using market prices rather than internal transfer prices, total $179 million. These losses are before any contribution to Fonterra’s unallocated overheads of nearly $500m a year or paying interest on the borrowed capital. More detail on that in part two of this series. Given the ongoing losses, hard questions have to be asked about the strategic importance of these farms. Was it ever important for Fonterra to be producing milk in China? Even if that was the case, is it still important? Fonterra’s China Farms go back to decisions made around 2006, with the first cattle shipped to the Hangu Farm in 2007 as part of the joint venture with San Lu – the only part of that venture to survive the 2008 melamine disaster. Soon

after that Fonterra embarked on further farm development at what is now known as the Yutian Hub. To find out why Fonterra wanted to build farms in China it is helpful to study a report by the commercial steering group of the New Zealand-China Dairy Project, written in 2007, at a time when the first cows were on the water. The project report was never formally published, despite having a nice glossy cover and being written for a general audience. It was overtaken by events. I was part of that NZ-China Dairy Project. Nine organisations were represented in the project, with Fonterra chairing, and NZ Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) playing a key role from the wings. Various agricultural technology companies were the other major participants and I was one of two university academics. But the overall driver of the project was Fonterra and the then Labour Government. They were working together with a vision of NZ Dairy Inc. The starting point was a belief that playing a key role in China’s dairy revolution presented exciting opportunities for NZ. An early assumption was that liquid dairy product, including fresh milk, UHT milk and yoghurt would continue to be the largest growth segment. There was also a belief that export opportunities to China for dairy commodities might stagnate. The question for Fonterra was how to capture the opportunities in China without growth in traditional exports. From there, it was easy for Fonterra and the Government to decide Fonterra had to be a strong number three, presumably behind Yili and Mengniu, in milk production in China. As the report said “Fonterra

LETTERS Continued from page 32 they expect fluffing a bit of Vircon around every day will stop said bug. Reinfection kills. Keeping your scouring calves moving daily to clean country saves calves. If you don’t have spare capacity for this you deserve what you get. The calves don’t deserve this. Sunshine and fresh air grow healthy calves. Keep them in your shed at your peril. Healthy, well fed calves can handle weather. Colostrum is great but you will always get calves that don’t have the best start. Learn how to avoid buying them. But when you do get them learn you have

must access between 4% and 6% of the total milk production in the Chinese market by 2015.’ That statement, supposedly written by the group, was in fact guided from the highest levels in Fonterra and the Government. From elsewhere in the industry there were some cautionary thoughts. For example, one quote in relation to ancillary businesses, credited to an anonymous managing director of a livestock business, said “China is not an easy market ... if we can avoid going there we will”. In fact, that comment was from Craig Norgate, former Fonterra chief executive but at that time managing director of PGG Wrightson, who for whatever reasons wanted nothing to do with the project. There is indeed an irony there, given the subsequent journey of PGG Wrightson.

Was it ever important for Fonterra to be producing milk in China?

Given the dominant gung-ho perspective within the group, it was an easy step to think NZ had lots of expertise and that there was a dairy knowledge base in NZ that was second to none. Also, working on a collaborative basis, policy experts from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) and Economic Development (MED) were well placed to share their experiences with their Chinese counterparts. My own involvement with the project started midway through the work, with a call from NZTE

ON SHOW: A map shows Fonterra’s Yutian farm in China.

asking me to join the team. When I asked what my role would be, NZTE said it did not actually know but Fonterra had asked for me. We agreed clarification would be sought. It turned out the project was, among other things, identifying opportunities in China for NZstyle grassland farming systems. China-based consulting teams were developing some glossy reports indicating the southcentral provinces contained areas very suitable for traditional NZ grass-based dairy systems. Indeed, that part of the project was referred to as The Waikato Project, based on the notion we could recreate Waikato in China. My task would be to critique those proposals. Critiquing the proposals was easy in a technical sense. In fact, the proposals were nonsense. But from a group dynamics perspective, I did have to be a little careful. After all, the beautiful graphs and diagrams had been prepared by a world-leading international management consultancy, which both before and since has made many millions at the expense of Fonterra. Other data came from NZTE folk who knew a lot about trade but nothing about geography and farming systems. There was another part of the project where I was totally unsuccessful in changing the dominant perspective. That related to the notion of producing UHT milk in NZ and shipping it to China. The dominant perspective was that exporting UHT milk was a crazy idea. The conventional thinking was

that transporting long-life milk would be killed by the transport charges. I saw things differently, with good premiums possible. Ten years later, the wheel has turned and Fonterra does indeed have a significant business exporting UHT milk from Waikato to China. Given the impracticality of creating a new pastoral Waikato in China and the perceived impracticality of shipping UHT milk to China, the logical outcome for Fonterra was to focus on intensive factory farming in China to get the quality milk it wanted. And that is what happened. China’s first farm at Hangu, in association with San Lu, had some fundamental design flaws. However, drawing both from this experience and from the ashes of the melamine disaster, Fonterra decided it still wanted a Chinese source of milk. That meant having farms where Fonterra had total control over milk quality. Someone at Fonterra had the wisdom to recognise that American technology and expertise rather than NZ technology and expertise was the way ahead and that technology was bought in. For some time the results from the Yutian hub looked promising but then everything turned to custard, at least in a financial sense. That story is part two.

Your View Keith Woodford was Professor of farm management and agribusiness at Lincoln University for 15 years to 2015. He is now principal consultant at AgriFood Systems. He can be contacted at kbwoodford@gmail.com

More letters P32 to treat them with more care. Separate those shonky calves as they come in. A good tradesman doesn’t blame his tools. Instead of looking at what the dairy farmer has or hasn’t done, ask a successful calf rearer how they do it. You call dairy farmers guilty, greedy, lazy and incompetent. You throw the Primary Industries Ministry and the stock companies under the bus. You say it has cost you your quality of life and your income. Respectfully, these calves were alive at pick-up. They were in your care. They died on your watch. You bought them. No one forced you to. Clearly you did something wrong. You had

too many. You had a disease in your shed. You kept them in a diseased shed. They defecated all over themselves and reinfected. Don’t go blaming everyone else. At those losses just stop please. Do something else. Tina Goldsmith Pureora Forest Farm

Letters to the Editor Letters must be no more than 450 words and submitted on the condition The New Zealand Farmers Weekly has the right to, and license third parties to, reproduce in electronic form and communicate these letters. Letters may also be edited for space and legal reasons. Names, addresses and phone numbers must be included. Letters with pen names will generally not be considered for publication.

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The Braided Trail

I have been purchasing Gleniti Romney Rams for many years. For me, they have consistently provided the following qualities to the flock: • Constitution • Fertility • Mothering ability • Growth weights and wool weights Gleniti Romneys are suited to our eastern Taranaki hill country. Their good temperament and mobility ensures ease of farming. A testament to the breed.

Bill Hume 06 307 7847 David Hume 06 307 7895 Gleniti, RD 2, Featherston

”

Loyd Bishop, Makahu, Taranaki

38 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

On Farm Story

Benevolent history repeats The Duncan, Perry and Howard families have a long connection with farming. They were instrumental in setting up Smedley, Taratahi and Massey University and the latest generation is doing it again with a group of farms in Rangitikei, particularly Otiwhiti and Westoe, providing a start on the land for cadets from all round the country. Ross Hyland

UCH has been said and written of the Duncans of the Turakina Valley but the transformation that has been happening on Otiwhiti Station deserves some focus of its own. The farm cadet training school was established at Otiwhiti by Charles and Joanna Duncan and Charles’ parents, David and Vicky, in 2006. With the addition of Jim and Diana Howard’s Westoe Farm near Marton it could well be the premier farm cadet training establishment in the region. The whole project is the latest chapter in the story of three families – the Howards, the Duncans and the Perrys – who have agricultural training and philanthropy in their blood and have been strongly involved in those areas for more than a century. Charles Duncan is the greatgrandson of Sir Thomas and Lady Jeannie Duncan and also Sir William and Lady Perry, from Charles’ mother Vicky’s side of the family. In 1919 Sir William gave 130 hectares to establish the Taratahi Agricultural Training Centre. The aim was to train servicemen returning from World War I. Taratahi today, along with Telford in the South Island, is one of the largest providers of basic farm training. In 1922 Sir William was appointed as a foundation director of the New Zealand Meat Board and served for 16 years. He

was also chairman of the NZ Wool Allocation Committee. In 1926 his Masterton farm, Penrose, won both first and second prizes in the export lamb competition run by the Smithfield Market in London. In 1927 he founded, funded and petitioned Parliament to establish the Royal Agricultural Society and was its inaugural chairman. The following year Sir William was the driving force of a group that established Massey University and the Massey Veterinary College. He was knighted in 1933. On the Howard’s side Josiah Howard bequeathed Smedley Station in Hawke’s Bay to the Crown in 1919 for agricultural education. Jim and Diana Howard had similar aspirations for their 400 hectare Westoe Farm in Rangitikei and seem to have found the perfect partners in Charles Duncan, the Duncan Land Company and Otiwhiti Land Based Training. Charles had been working closely with Jim Howard in combining training experience for the cadets between Otiwhiti and Westoe and both men saw the potential of combining a large store stock operation in the Hunterville hills with a finishing farm such as Westoe. The transformation of Westoe into a demonstration farm also appealed to both Charles Duncan and the Howards. It wouldn’t just be in the traditional sense but also as a comprehensive value chain model to highlight the synergies and benefits that could be achieved through farmers, processors, exporters, marketers

WAY IN: The main lane to the Otiwhiti woolshed that’s 5km into the middle of the station.

and consumers all working in collaboration. Westoe is the shop window to show the benefits of integrating hill country store farmers (breeders) with finishing farms then linking them with NZ’s only farmer-owned red meat cooperative processor, Alliance. Collectively, they could then focus on the incremental gains that could be achieved by owning or at least controlling the brand all the way to the consumer. The Duncan Land Company was formed in mid 1998, shortly after Charles and his brother Joe leased Otiwhiti from the Sir Thomas and Lady Duncan Trust. The trust sold all the stock and plant to the brothers. By the mid 2000s the Sir Thomas and Lady Duncan Trust was facing a significant dilemma

DOWN THE ROAD: Otiwhiti lambs being finished on Westoe farm. Westoe is an integral part of Otiwhiti’s operation.

grappling with the relatively low returns from sheep farming (even under the lease to Charles and Joe Duncan) when compared with the returns it could achieve elsewhere. In 2006 the decision was made to sell Otiwhiti. Otiwhiti Station returned to Duncan ownership when the auctioneer’s hammer went down on May 25. That day $8.75m changed hands and the Sir Thomas and Lady Duncan Trust could continue to fund causes helping young New Zealanders. Charles Duncan and his parents were now back farming Otiwhiti as the new owners. Otiwhiti is tough country, intersected by deep ravines and gullies and prone to re-infestation by weeds the minute stock pressure is removed. David Duncan’s pet hate was manuka and he remained aghast people plant it now for manuka honey extraction but in the end that was just a sign of the times with the honey business now also a feature of Otiwhiti’s annual revenues. All the gullies are now fenced and filled with native trees along with scattered patches of native bush. Otiwhiti is alive with bird song in the mornings. Tui, bellbirds, kaka, fantails and kereru compete with the shrill of the magpies. Almost immediately on the sale the philanthropic Duncan and Perry genes in Charles’ DNA appeared to bubble to the surface and he set up a farm cadet training school in partnership with Whanganui-based Rob Gollan and his Land Based Training. He and Charles put their heads together and started the Otiwhiti Land Based Training cadet school. Duncan bought back the closed Otiwhiti School, for which his parents had donated the land. The Otiwhiti Land Based

Photos: Ross Hyland

Training school now had classrooms in which to teach its cadets. In behind the school were station houses for staff and implement sheds for plant and machinery. The old Flock House accommodation block, known as The Hood, was bought, cut in three and moved to Otiwhiti. The facilities for the cadets at Otiwhiti are first class. In addition to the refurbished accommodation block, there are classrooms, a small conference room, swimming pool, cook house and dining room with its own vegetable gardens, excellent killing and chiller facilities where cadets are trained in basic butchering, a small piggery, a run for the hens, kennels for all the cadets’ dogs, station out-buildings, a well-stocked workshop, stables and tack room for the horses and ponies, the farm manager’s house, the cook and cadet manager’s house and other staff housing. Alongside there is a small, treelined paddock where cadets spend hours training their dogs. Fresh fruit and vegetables for the ever-hungry cadets is topped up from the vegetable gardens and orchard at David and Vicky Duncan’s Otairi homestead. Otiwhiti Land Based Training boasts it has achieved 100% placement of all cadets in full employment at the end of their training and all cadets graduate with NCEA-based certificates in agriculture. There are no shortcuts at Otiwhiti Land Based Training. Every cadet learns to shear sheep from shearing legend Shane Ratima. There are excellent fencing tutors and other quality training in the field is matched in the classroom. Health and safety play a big part in the day-to-day training. Charles and Jo Duncan ensure the cadets get involved in the

On Farm Story

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

AREN’T YOU HAVING ANY: Charles Duncan proudly holding up one of his fodder beet. This crop yielded well in excess of 20 tonnes a hectare.

Hunterville-Turakina Valley communities. There is gender equality at Otiwhiti and so girls as well as boys are welcome and they come from all over NZ, both rural and urban kids wanting to begin a career in agriculture. And then there was the opportunity provided by the Duncan’s relationship with other hill country station owners up and down the Turakina Valley where the cadets sometimes help out with weekend work or assist during musters and docking. Other stations in the valley include Kowhainui, Maungatotara, Bald Hill, Papanui, Siberia, Ferndale, Drysdale and Otairi. Otawhiti runs 14,000 composite Highlander ewes and 3500 ewe hoggets. Ewe lambing is more than 150% and hogget lambing 80%. Ewes are finished with a terminal sire. There are 800 breeding cows artificially inseminated with Wagyu semen. The opportunities with Westoe as both a finishing unit and training centre alongside Otiwhiti Station are significant. A $2 million irrigation development was planned for Westoe to lift lamb numbers finished to more than 50,000 a year. Alongside the breeding operation at Otiwhiti, Charles also farms another finishing property near Cheltenham on the eastern side of Vinegar Hill. Thistledene is 120 hectares and also has irrigation potential. As a result of these finishing operations alongside a fourth property, the 320 hectare Pukeroa Station further up the Turakina Valley, Charles and DLC trade

more lambs than they breed. He focuses on specialty fodder crops to fill budgeted feed gaps and works in very closely with Alliance. DLC processed more than 75,000 lambs this year and because of their loyalty to the co-operative model has plans to grow this number over time. Charles has one special attribute, he is a very good networker, especially among his fellow farmers and so works in closely with a number of breeder and finishing operations over

much of the North Island where he secures lambs for finishing. His close work with Alliance ensures Charles and DLC have good relationships on both sides of the trading operation. But it is Charles’ family that is the ultimate glue that holds this agri-businessman’s feet firmly on the ground. There is his brother, Joe Duncan, who lives in Auckland and his sister, Koo, who still lives in Rangitikei. Along with the legacy that his parents brought to the family table there

is also Charles’ wife, Jo, and their four children, Jonty, Ben, Maddie and Sophie. Jo was a Hurley from Siberia Station 40 minutes further up the Turakina Valley and so was no stranger to the demands of station life. But Jo is also very involved with helping out and organising events for the cadets and works in closely with all the other families up and down the valley. She is a real champion, a great cook, a part-time teacher in Hunterville when called on and operates a

taxi service for the kids like most modern day rural mothers are forced to do. Five days before Charles and Jo were to get married the Whanganui region was hit with a one-in-250 year weather bomb. The Turakina river rose 25 metres above normal. It was a devastating event that destroyed a lot of Otiwhiti’s infrastructure but Jo and Charlie Duncan didn’t let it stop their wedding or their new life together. Four kids later there is not much this farming couple can’t cope with. The Duncan family are all sports mad and whether it is hockey, cricket or rugby for the boys or netball, dancing or riding the ponies for the girls, Jo is in heavy demand. Add the needs of running the family home and ensuring Charles gets all his messages – no cell phone coverage in the valley – then Jo Duncan is one busy woman. This story is an edited extract from Ross Hyland’s book Our Land, Our People, launched on Friday.

BEST FRIENDS: The cadets spend hours training their dogs after work. It’s a tremendous way to learn but also a great way for them to grow an asset. Cadets often finish their studies with working dogs worth up to $5000.

>> Video link: bit.ly/OFSduncan2

World

40 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Cuts will force UK farmers out PHASING out direct payments (subsidies) to British farmers, as proposed in the Agriculture Bill, amounts to a seven-year notice to quit the industry for many farmers, former Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron says. Under the government’s planned legislation direct payments will be phased out between 2021 and 2027, with whatever money is then available for agriculture channelled into a new Environmental Land Management Scheme, rewarding farmers for their public-good activities. Addressing a National Farmers Union/Food and Drink Federation fringe meeting at the Liberal Democrat conference Farron said consumers will suffer from the removal of subsidies on food production while farmers will see their incomes squeezed. “If there is a seven-year phasing out of direct payments, for many farmers, especially in the more challenging parts of the West Country and Cumbria, it will be a seven-year notice period to quit the industry altogether,” he said. NFU vice-president Stuart Roberts agreed farmers are going

to struggle given they are about to enter an era of no subsidies for basic food production for the first time since the 1920s. “We’re up to the challenge as farmers but let’s remember you can’t feed a nation on egos and ideology,” he said. Roberts did concede, having studied the Agriculture Bill in more detail since it was published, some elements are potentially helpful. “There are actually some really quite interesting things in the Bill, particularly around relationships in the supply chain, contracts and producer organisations. “This can all help support food but in its current form we are desperately short of a United Kingdom food strategy. “If you don’t feed a nation they get pretty upset, pretty quickly.” Fallon also suggested that, should the UK end up with a nodeal Brexit and has to pay tariffs on food exports to the European Union, the government has no plans to retaliate with reciprocal tariffs. “That is because there are a lot more consumers than there are farmers and that is one way of at

BAD NEWS: Consumers will suffer through food prices if farm subsidies are removed, former Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron says.

least temporarily keeping a lid on food prices in the UK.” Such an approach, which Farron gleaned from earlier impact analysis documents, would be throwing British farming under

Eight factors make better farmers EIGHT factors set apart topperforming farms from the rest, according to a British Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board Horizons report compiled by farm business consultantcy Andersons. The report measured performance by dividing the income from the farm by the costs associated with it to produce a figure for return on turnover. The strongest message to come out of the guide relates to overhead cost control, with the top performers in all sectors having lower overheads than the rest. Designed as a guide to improve performance, the report takes each factor and suggests how it can be tackled using farm case studies. “One important aspect is that these characteristics are not ones that require huge capital investment but are much more about doing things differently,” ADHB market intelligence director Phil Bicknell said. “What’s more, they all sit firmly within our scope of influence on farm.” Higher output accounts for 10-30% of higher profits in topquartile farm businesses while lower costs contribute 65-90% of higher profits, the report, which includes farmer-to-farmer advice, said. It also found more than half of farmers in the lower 25% bracket do not realise they are underperforming. Conversely, higher performers constantly question and seek to improve – they tend to attend discussion groups on business management and other issues.

WHO US? A study of British farmers shows those in the bottom 25% don’t realise they are underperforming. They also use key performance indicators to measure how they are doing. Good communication with buyers and knowing about the market they are selling into is also a feature of top performers, who make the effort to visit customers’ sites, learning how value can be added. They work on developing and maintaining good trading relationships – for example, by understanding the importance of speed of loading or conforming to delivery and other requirements. The report accepts concepts such as focusing on detail are not new but emphasises the importance of making as many small gains as possible, which can add up to a significant improvement in overall performance. The study found the top 25% farms, across all farm types, perform 1.8 times better than the bottom 25% – a huge difference in profit terms. In 2014-15 to 2016-17 the bottom 25% lost £34,600 a farm from agriculture and lost £11,200 overall after subsidies and diversification.

In the same period, the top quarter of farmers made £42,000 from farming and more than £115,000 in total. Less than 5% of variation in farm performance is related to geographic factors, such as soil and climate. More than 70% of the difference between top and bottom quartile farms is due to decisions made by the farmer. The factors a farmer cannot change are mostly of small importance to performance.

Read the report, Preparing for change: The characteristics of top performing farms, at the AHDB website

8 performance traits: • Minimise overhead costs • Set goals and budgets • Compare with others and gather information • Understand the market • Focus on detail • Have a mindset for change • Continually improve people management • Specialise

the bus and would trigger a rapid decline in UK self-sufficiency of food. Farmers will have to cut their input costs significantly following the removal of direct subsidies

if they are to stay in profit, Development Studies Institute policy analyst Elise Wach said. Quoting from the evidence compendium accompanying the Agriculture Bill, she said farmers will not be able to stay out of the red without direct payments unless they reduce input costs by 31% or diversify. “That’s the equivalent of telling people to wear an extra jumper if they can’t afford the heating,” she said. Wach also questioned the claim that delinking direct payments from farming during the transition period will encourage older farmers to retire and so open up the sector to new entrants. “That assumption is a really dangerous one and I think there is a high risk of land consolidation and for land to continue to be seen as a financially efficient investment.” She is also concerned delinking will widen the disconnect between consumers and food production while paying people who own farmland but do not necessarily produce food is a backward step. UK Farmers Weekly

Florence is no nightingale MILLIONS of farm animals have died and millions of dollars of damage has been caused to crops in North and South Carolina by Hurricane Florence. The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Affairs reported preliminary estimates of 3.4 million poultry birds and 5500 pigs having died as a result of the storm. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said “This was an unprecedented storm with flooding expected to exceed that from any other storms in recent memory. “We know agricultural losses will be significant because the flooding has affected the top six agricultural counties in our state. “The footprint of flooding from this storm covers much of the same area hit by floods from Hurricane Matthew in 2016, which only worsens the burden on these farmers.” In South Carolina the direct loss to farmers is expected to be $125m, with cotton crops hit hard. There will also be impacts on soybeans, peanuts, fruits, vegetables and livestock. South Carolina Farm Bureau president Harry Ott said farmers in the state are no strangers to hurricanes, flooding and national disasters. “Hurricane Florence significantly impacted the Pee Dee region where the majority of our state’s crops are grown.

South Carolina Farm Bureau president Harry Ott.

Dillon County farmer Cullen Bryant.

“We are working with our farmers and officials to get everyone back on their feet as quickly as possible.” Cullen Bryant, who farms 650 hectares in Dillon County, South Carolina, estimated up to 80% of his 300ha cotton crop was lost and said there was not much he could have done to protect the crop in the field. “We knew we would get rain, just not the rainfall that we did,” he said. “In some ways, we feel like we dodged a bullet since it did not come in right on top of us. That was a blessing in and of itself.” UK Farmers Guardian

classifieds@globalhq.co.nz – 0800 85 25 80

Unit Manager – Dry Stock

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Working under an Operations Manager, being one of five Unit Managers within this business, a key function of this role is the leadership of and setting a high standard for the team of three full time plus casual staff.

farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz

With contours 40% flat and 60% hill the unit is ideally suited for good livestock growth and finishing along with the Unit Managers’ ability to manage pasture and animal health to maximise this. Accommodation is a good three bedroom plus office home with double garaging. The local primary school is only 15 minutes away, with secondary 30 minutes away, both serviced by buses.

• A proven ability to work within a larger team and successfully lead a team • Exceptional livestock and pasture management skills • A strong understanding of farm policies including Health & Safety and adherence to these • Effective communication and record keeping skills including good IT competency • A team of up to five working dogs under good command • NZ residency

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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.

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HERBAGE SEEDGROWERS SUBSECTION

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AN EXCITING OPPORTUNITY

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Applications close Friday 12 October 2018.

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Contact Debbie Brown 06 323 0765 or email classifieds@globalhq.co.nz

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Suitable applicants would be progressive and have a genuine passion for the industry and its future in NZ, and have:

Employers: Advertise your vacancy in the employment section of the Farmers Weekly and as added value it will be uploaded to farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz for one month or close of application.

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A priority for the owners is maximising the units potential to achieve targets of 20,000su within five years, therefore progressive land development and smart farming will be a key factor.

2IC Analyst Dairy Genetic Manager Livestock Specialist Manager Sheep Breeding Opportunity Shepherd Shepherd/General Stock Manager Tractor/Truck/Machinery Operator

Classifieds 0800 85 25 80

Shepherd General Trigham Station is a family owned and operated 1600 hectare hill country Sheep and Beef breeding property. We are located 30 minutes west of Napier situated in the Patoka area. We are seeking applicants for a Shepherd General position becoming available. The right candidate must be: • Mature • Honest • Reliable • Motivated Have: • Excellent communication skills • Possess a full range of farming skills • 3-4 good dogs • Commitment to Health and Safety • Current and full NZ driver’s licence Excellent family home with mature gardens provided Please contact Gary or Gaylene Peddle 06-839 5878 • Gary 027 485 2301 Or email your CV to trighamstation@gmail.com

Situated just 30 minutes NW of Turangi this outstanding 1700ha dry stock unit carrying 17,000su of cattle & sheep is seeking an experienced and exceptional Unit Manager to lead their dry stock team.

JOBS BOARD

www.ezylinehomes.co.nz • 07 572 0230

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

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. 40 YEARS experience mustering feral cattle and feral goats anywhere in NZ. 50% owner (no costs). 50% musterer (all costs). Phone Kerry Coulter 027 494 4194.

HORTICULTURE NZ KELP. FRESH, wild ocean harvested giant kelp. The world’s richest source of natural iodine. Dried and milled for use in agriculture and horticulture. Growth promotant / stock health food. As seen on Country Calendar. Orders to: 03 322 6115 or info@nzkelp.co.nz

LIVESTOCK FOR SALE WILTSHIRES-ARVIDSON. Self shearing sheep. No1 for Facial Eczema. David 027 2771 556.

MACHINERY FOR SALE TWO FARROW DISC plough $400. A mower crimper old model 4-lucerne $3000. Four wheel drive ford TW 20. $20,000. Phone 027 444 8846. AVCO CONVENTIONAL hay baler, same as 440 OR 445 IH. In very good working order - $3000+GST ono. Two Nuffield tractors offers. Zetor tractor 5745 4x4, runs well, hydraulics and brakes need looking at - make good boat tractor - $2500. Also 30.9 x 16 tractor tyres. Phone 07 827 3675, (evenings best).

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

North Canterbury Area

This is your opportunity to join an experienced 100% NZ owned and operated Livestock Company, NZ Farmers Livestock are leaders in their industry operating across New Zealand. We define ourselves on the strength of our expertise and commitment to working with farmers for farmers. We are continually making grounds in the industry and positioning ourselves as the leader in the online space of livestock trading with the successful and ever growing MyLiveStock Website and MyLiveStock App. NZ Farmers Livestock are currently seeking experienced Livestock Specialists in order to extend our livestock business throughout New Zealand. • • • •

Competitive remuneration package Supportive team environment Immediate start Unique opportunity for a change of career direction

Key skills and attributes the successful candidate should have are: • • • •

Energy and vitality Sales experience Extensive dairy knowledge Superior relationship building and communication skills • Ability to work in an autonomous manner • High levels of drive and self motivation • Computer literate All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. Applications close 5.00pm Wednesday 31st October 2018. Contact or email either: James Perkins Regional Manager – South Island 027 232 8052 • james.perkins@nzfll.co.nz or mail to: NZ Farmers Livestock Ltd PO Box 304, Stratford 4352 Attn: Joanne Richards

LK0094684©

Employment

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 8, 2018

Classifieds PUMPS HIGH PRESSURE WATER PUMPS, suitable on high headlifts. Low energy usage for single/3-phase motors, waterwheel and turbine drives. Low maintenance costs and easy to service. Enquiries phone 04 526 4415, email sales@hydra-cell.co.nz

WANTED TO BUY SAWN SHED TIMBER including Black Maire. Matai, Totara and Rimu etc. Also buying salvaged native logs. Phone Richard Uren. NZ Native Timber Supplies. Phone 027 688 2954.

RAMS FOR SALE 2018 has been a record season for Sheep. Top Ramguard Facial eczema tested, SIL recorded, Purebred Romney Rams will be hard to find. Approx 80 Rams will be available at the 34th Mid-Northern Romney Ram Fair Thursday 1st November 2018 at 12 noon. In conjunction with Waikato Agricultural and Pastoral Association. Waikato Events Centre. Claudelands Hamilton.

TRACTOR PARTS

CNH MXU110 /100. TSA 100/110. Dismantling. ANDQUIP. Phone 027 524 3356.

livestock@globalhq.co.nz – 0800 85 25 80

Livestock

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 8, 2018

DAIRY CATTLE end of season delivery/settlement.

HIGH INDEXING JERSEY & JERSEY • Friesian herd, 120 LIC bred cows, BW 104, PW 115, CROSS HERD

•

a/c G & S Morris 50 1yr Ang & Ang H X Strs, 20 1yr Frsn Bulls a/c Waituhi Kuratau Stn 53 2yr Here Frsn X Strs 460kg a/c Harakeke Land Co 45 2yr Here Frsn X Strs, 30 1yr Here Frsn X Hfrs a/c KapuKapu Ltd 65 AB Angus Frsn X Hfrs: by Stokman Ang Bulls LK0094746©

• Wanted to purchase. I have keen purchaser wanting to

cows, Crossbred cows and Ayrshire yearling heifers,

250 Fr/FrX Herd BW83 PW65 99% RA Passionately farmed on the family farm (since 1966). A closed herd for the past 23 years. Breeding focus has been for fertility the last 10 years with fertility traits as high as the herd averages allow. Under cover in our Mobile Auction Facility

24 3yr Steers - 100 2yr Steers 40 2yr Heifers - 105 1yr Steers 97 1yr Bulls - 115 1yr Heifers 40 Wnr Aut Born Ang Ang X Strs/Hfrs 75 Wnr Aut Born Heifers 30 Assorted Cattle Special entries:

• Friesian cows, 56, BW 34, PW 56, RA 93%. Very good Many cows contracted to LIC for 2011 matings production, vendor reducing herd Due conformation to calve andfrom 16-7-12, 6.5 weeks size, keen to get sold. AB Jersey and Kiwi cross • Jersey cows, 200 even split, BW 116, PWnon Estimated to 100 befrom420 cows after 121, secure matecows to your&requirements pregnant, culls,now, older 5% rejection • Jersey cows, from 180, complete Jerseyms/cow, portion, Production last100 season 347kgs BW 71, ms/ha, PW 72, long on established Northland 1000kgs rolling to herd steeper contoured farm, noheifers, meal,BW palm or maize • 29 Friesian Cross 107,kernel 13 Friesian Cross fed. heifers, BW 146, 57 Friesian Cross heifers, BW 121. YoungSecure replacement stockbulls also now before Jersey goavailable in

Outstanding genetics & and potential be heifers, one of buy 600 Jersey cows 100 Jerseyto in calf the countries leading suppliers of Genetics to must have BW above 100. the dairy industry for years to come. Full details • For sale with immediate delivery, Ayrshire in milk available.

Vendor: E & K Zink Location: 363 Hydro Rd, Whakatane Date: Thursday 11th October 11am

12 Noon Start

BW 143/50 PW 161/67 RA 100% • Friesian herd, 100 LIC bred cows, BW 82, PW 118, RA (in100%. topOff10 All Breeds for NZ ) very wet farm, has supplied bulls to AB

•

Thursday 11th October

630 CATTLE

RA 99%. 500kgs ms cows, some contract cows, has supplied bulls to AB, replacements also available

• •

Dairy In-Milk Auction

For enquiries call 027 4956031 Detailed entries are on our website

Contact Andrew or Paul for more info Agents: Andrew Gordon 027 4872044 Paul Collins 027 3048994

LK0094623©

BRLL has the following Dairy Cattle for sale for

SALE TALK

PINE PARK RAMS

www.carrfieldslivestock.co.nz

FE Coopworth FE Romney x Coop Texel x Coopworth Suffolk Suftex Texel x Poll Dorset

SIL Carcass Scanned FE Testing Edward Sherriff 06 327 6591 021 704 778

LK0093719©

LIVESTOCK ADVERTISING Are you looking in the right direction?

all to recorded. Enquiries the sole marketing agents: All enquiries to:

There, the old man’s wide was baking chocolate chip cookies. With his last bit of energy, mustering everything he had left, he reached for a cookie only to get his hand slapped. “No,” the wife snapped, “these are for the funeral!”

farmersweekly.co.nz

Brian Robinson BRLL Brian Robinson Ph 0272 410 051 PH: 0272 or 07410051 858 3132or 07 8583132

An old man was lying on his deathbed. With only hours to live, he suddenly smelt chocolate chip cookies wafting up from the kitchen. Driven on by his favourite smell, he somehow managed to pull himself out of bed, across the floor to the stairs, and slowly down the stairs to the kitchen.

Gary Falkner Jersey Marketing Service PH: 027 482 8771 or 07 846 4491

YEARLING BULL SALE RESULTS Contact Nigel today on 06 323 0761, 027 602 4925 or livestock@globalhq.co.nz to sign up or feature your sale results and receive weekly updates.

farmersweekly.co.nz

TALK TO A WAI-ITI CLIENT NEAR YOU Central Taranaki Paul Topless ‘Akama Farm’ – Stratford 06 762 7503

Nelson Ian Parkes ‘Punawai’ – Wakeﬁeld 027 444 4709

Taihape Ross Gordon ‘Awarua’ – Mokai Valley 06 388 0092

North Canterbury Att Lawrence ‘Mount Hilton’ – Hawarden 03 314 4095

Manawatu Scott Bailey ‘Tuahiwi’ – Waituna West 06 323 6846

South Canterbury Hamish Bell ‘Ngaripa Farm’ – Hakataramea Valley 03 436 0133

Wairarapa Andrew Mathewson ‘Whakapuni Station’ – Martinborough 06 307 8117

Key: Dairy

CASTLEROCK SPRING CATTLE SALE

ROMTEX AND SUFTEX ALSO AVAILABLE Zandy Wallace P: 06 372 2551 M: 0226 580 680 E: zandyandcaroline@waiitiromneys.co.nz

Tim Wallace P: 06 372 2654

www.waiitiromneys.co.nz

Sheep

PGG Wrightson will offer 1475 cattle including: 80 2yr Steers 440 2yr Heifers 955 1yr Steers Entries include: A/c Tangihau Stn 200 1yr Angus Strs A/c Cricklewood Stn 150 1yr Angus Strs A/c Okare Stn 180 1yr Angus Strs A/c Te Tiki Stn 150 1yr Angus Strs A/c Pihanui Stn 45 1yr Angus Strs A/c Roscommon 50 1yr Ang & Ang/Here Strs 20 2yr Ang & Ang/Here Strs

Southland Nelson Hancox ‘Kowhai Downs’ – Gore 0272 173 902 Central Otago Scott Armstrong Omakau 0274 473 616

Beef

Other

WAIROA CATTLE FAIR

LK0084333©

Hawke’s Bay Dale Tatam ‘Forest Home’ – Wakarara 06 856 6852

2353FW

Farmers Weekly will be launching the Yearling Bull Sale results from the 14th September.

2nd Annual Castlerock Spring Cattle Sale Northern Southland Selling Centre Friday 26th October, 10.30am start Consisting Approx: 1000 Beef Yearling Steers & Heifers Breeds: Simmental, Charolais, Angus & Hereford Special Entry: Nokomai Station, Athol 2500 Yearling Hereford Heifers This is a Capital Stock line of Heifers as no replacements are being kept this year. The majority will be suitable to take a Bull. Full Advert to follow in coming weeks. Enquiries: Barry McAlister | 0274 416 432

FIND US ON FACEBOOK Follow what’s happening out in the field, visit: fb.com/pgwlivestock

A/c Papuni Stn A/c Mahurangi Stn A/c Waimaara

70 1yr Ang & Ang/Here Strs 130 2yr Hereford Heifers 270 2yr Angus Heifers 50 2yr Ang & Ang/Here Strs

Grand opportunity to purchase to purchase large lines of well bred station cattle renown for their shifting ability Enquires: Ian Rissetto 06 838 8604 0274 449 347 Mason Birrell 06 838 7091 0274 967 253 Hamish Forrester 0276 012 351

WAIKATO HERDS 1ST JUNE DELIVERY 350 Frsn/ Frsn Jsy X Cows. BW 81, PW 91, RA 84%. Calving 20th July. Young herd off hard farm. System 1. $2000. Contact: Regan Craig 0275 028 585 425 Frsn/ Frsn X Cows. BW 90, PW 111, RA 98%. Calving 20th July. Avg 387 M/S, one owner 35 years. $2200. Contact: Shaan Featherston 0276 661 198 Pick 170 out of 270 Xbred Cows. BW 112, PW 129, RA 99%. Calving 20th July. Selling 2yr to 6yr. Avg 385 M/S. $2050. Contact: Dean Evans 0272 431 092 240 Jsy Cows. BW 108, PW 102, RA 98%. Calving 15th July. Avg 438 M/S. $1900. Contact: Richard Todd 0274 942 544

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

Helping grow the country

Livestock

NZ’s No1 F.E. Meat Breed Flock * SIL * Parasite Testing Well Muscled - Fast Growth. Ph: David 027 2771 556

QUALITY SUFTEX RAMS

STOCK WANTED

STOCK REQUIRED

2yr 450kg Friesian bulls – BY

STOCK FOR SALE 150 beef x Autumn heifers $550 – BY 100kg Friesian bulls available from 10 October – CK 60 yearling Angus/Frs x Heifers – CK 50 Autumn born black white head Heifers 150kg $630 – CK

STEERS 2YR xBRED HEIFERS 450-550kgs 2YR STEERS

SINCE 1937

ECZEMA TOLERANT

WAITEIKA HILL COUNTRY ROMNEYS RAMGUARD TESTING SINCE 1985 ***** RATING

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

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

Office 07 823 4559 BYLLIVESTOCK.CO.NZ byllivestock

www.dyerlivestock.co.nz

8th Annual Spring Sale

46 Yearling Bulls Sterndale, Totara Valley Wednesday 10 October 2018 1pm www.sternangus.co.nz

LK0094372©

Ross Dyer 0274 333 381

Aaron Clapperton 027 496 7410 Richard Seavill 021 169 8276 / 07 825 4984 Chris Smith 027 496 7413 / 06 756 8968 Chris Kyle 027 496 7412 / 07 883 7412 Bryce Young 027 496 7411

LK0094561©

PROTECT YOUR FUTURE FLOCKS

Keith Abbott Raglan 027 463 9859 www.waiteikaromneys.co.nz

1YR FRIES HERE STEERS 220-270kgs 220-250kgs 1 YR FRIES HERE HEIFERS

230-270kgs 1YR ANG

STER N ANGUS

Enquiries to Bernard Bird 06 388 1527 or 027 454 695

FOR SALE

1YR FRIES BULLS 220-270kgs

LK0094524©

Bred on Taihape hill country

LK0094345©

A r v i d s o n W I L T S H I R E S - Pure Meat, No Shearing

livestock@globalhq.co.nz – 0800 85 25 80

LIVESTOCK ADVERTISING PHONE NIGEL RAMSDEN 0800 85 25 80

Genetically linked to Waimai & Kikitangeo Romney

PAKI-ITI SUFFOLK 1447 Hereheretau Rd, RD 6, WAIROA 4196 www.kerrahsimmentals.co.nz

Jon Knauf

PROFIT-A-BULL EXCELLENCE

NUMBERS TELL A STORY

Quality bulls available for sale NOW at Tangiwai Station, Wairoa

• Over 150 clients purchased/leased Paki-iti rams last year • 97% Paki-iti terminal sale rams fully SIL performance recorded • 450+ Suffolk and Suftex rams sold and leased last year

PAKI-ITI SUFTEX

• 5 years of C/T scanning • 11 years of wintering ram hoggets on steep hill country • 98 years of breeding rams for the NZ sheep industry BUT BREEDING IS MORE THAN NUMBERS It is about longevity, structural soundness, constitution and then the numbers.

paki-iti.co.nz

LK0094673©

Visit to view our breeding programs

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

FROM HERE...

CONTACT:

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

Phil Transom 0274 420 060 PGG Wrightson

Ross Mitchell 0274 048 965 Fergus Rural

THIS SEASON’S CROP FIRST LIGHT WAGYU IS QUIETLY GROWING IN LINE WITH DEMAND FROM OUR DISCERNING NEW ZEALAND AND INTERNATIONAL CUSTOMERS.

THIS YEAR WE HAVE A LIMITED RELEASE OF HEALTHY, WAGYU DAIRY CALVES AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE.

• • • • •

90kg+ Calves to purchase Proven sustainable premium returns Guaranteed buy-back of finished cattle Producer group of NZ’s elite cattle farmers Bred and reared under strict Bio-security Protocols

ANTIBIOTICS OR ADDED HORMONES EVER

Talk to us - 0800 4 Wagyu (0800 492 498) info@firstlight.farm www.firstlight.farm

...TO HERE

LK0093489©

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 8, 2018

MARKET SNAPSHOT

Market Snapshot brought to you by the AgriHQ analysts.

Suz Bremner

Rachel Agnew

Mel Croad

Cattle

Reece Brick

Sheep

BEEF

Deer

SHEEP MEAT

VENISON

Last week

Prior week

Last year

NI Steer (300kg)

5.80

5.90

5.70

NI lamb (17kg)

8.40

8.45

7.15

NI Stag (60kg)

11.50

9.85

NI Bull (300kg)

5.35

5.40

5.50

NI mutton (20kg)

5.10

4.25

SI Stag (60kg)

11.40

9.85

NI Cow (200kg)

4.30

4.35

4.30

SI lamb (17kg)

8.10

8.15

7.00

SI Steer (300kg)

5.70

5.85

5.45

SI mutton (20kg)

5.10

4.25

SI Bull (300kg)

5.10

Export markets (NZ$/kg)

SI Cow (200kg)

4.25

UK CKT lamb leg

9.09

9.07

9.24

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

Export markets (NZ$/kg)

Last week Prior week

Last year

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

North Island lamb slaughter price

10 9

6.36

7.01

9.0

US domestic 90CL cow

0.00

8.0

7.0

$/kg CW

6.37

6.0

$/kg CW

South Island steer slaughter price

6.0

$/kg CW

South Island lamb slaughter price

9.0

4.0

7.0

6.0

Oct

Dec

Feb

Apr

Jun

2016-17

5-yr ave

Dairy

2016-17

Aug 2017-18

Last week

Prior week

Last year

Coarse xbred ind.

3.21

3.30

2.98

37 micron ewe

3.20

3.40

30 micron lamb

$/tonne

6.5 6.0

Mar-18 Sept. 2019

May-18

Jul-18 Sept. 2020

Urea

570

477

Super

304

297

DAP

755

702

Last price*

370

Sep-17

Nov-17

Jan-18

Mar-18

May-18

Jul-18

vs 4 weeks ago

Company

YTD High

YTD Low 11.92

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corporation Ltd

15.12

16.44

Auckland International Airport Limited

7.18

7.49

6.11

Meridian Energy Limited (NS)

3.24

3.42

2.75

The a2 Milk Company Limited

10.70

14.62

7.66

Spark New Zealand Limited

4.02

4.10

3.28 10.27

Ryman Healthcare Limited

13.48

14.09

Fletcher Building Limited

6.50

7.96

5.74

Mercury NZ Limited (NS)

3.34

3.45

3.08

Contact Energy Limited

5.88

5.96

5.15

Port of Tauranga Limited (NS)

5.19

5.27

4.74

Sep-18

Listed Agri Shares

CANTERBURY FEED BARLEY Prior week

NZ average (NZ$/t)

Top 10 by Market Cap

420

320

Sep-18

DAIRY FUTURES (US$/T) Nearby contract

Aug 2017-18

Last year

470

Jan-18

Jun

Prior week

CANTERBURY FEED WHEAT

7.0

Nov-17

Apr 2016-17

Last week

Grain

Data provided by

MILK PRICE FUTURES

5.5

Feb

FERTILISER

(NZ$/kg) Jun

Dec

Fertiliser

Aug 2017-18

WOOL

4.5

Apr

Oct

5-yr ave

5.0

Feb

8 7

5-yr ave

Dec

8.0

4.0

Oct

5.0

5.5

4.0

South Island stag slaughter price

11 $/kg CW

$/kg CW

5.0

4.0

4.5

$/kg MS

6.0 5.0

5.5

Last year

US imported 95CL bull

North Island steer slaughter price

Last week Prior week

North Island stag slaughter price

12 $/kg CW

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

Ingrid Usherwood

5pm, close of market, Thursday

Company

YTD High

YTD Low

440

The a2 Milk Company Limited

10.700

14.620

7.660

5.920

9.210

5.590

2730

2745

2800

420

9.850

11.000

7.510

SMP

2030

2035

2075

400

Delegat Group Limited Foley Family Wines Limited

1.400

1.610

1.400

380

Fonterra Shareholders' Fund (NS)

4.800

6.660

4.800

Livestock Improvement Corporation Ltd (NS)

0.700

3.000

0.700

New Zealand King Salmon Investments Ltd

2.710

2.990

1.840

PGG Wrightson Limited

0.610

0.720

0.560

Sanford Limited (NS)

7.920

8.500

7.350

Scales Corporation Limited

4.900

5.000

4.350

SeaDragon Limited

0.003

0.006

0.002

Seeka Limited

6.000

7.010

5.800

Synlait Milk Limited (NS)

10.600

13.530

6.260

T&G Global Limited

3.050

3.300

3.000

Tegel Group Holdings Limited

1.220

1.240

0.810

S&P/NZX Primary Sector Equity

16601

17682

14417

S&P/NZX 50 Index

9257

9376

8059

S&P/NZX 10 Index

8928

9212

7640

AMF

5330

5700

Butter

4270

4290

4650

Milk Price

6.24

6.26

6.47

$/tonne

WMP

Comvita Limited

340 320

Sep-17

* price as at close of business on Thursday

WMP FUTURES - VS FOUR WEEKS AGO

Jan-18

Mar-18

May-18

Jul-18

Sep-18

350

2800

300

$/tonne

US$/t

Nov-17

WAIKATO PALM KERNEL

2900

2700 2600

360

250

Oct

Nov Dec Latest price

Jan Feb 4 weeks ago

Mar

200

Sep-17

S&P/FW PRIMARY SECTOR EQUITY

Nov-17

Jan-18

Mar-18

May-18

Jul-18

Sep-18

16601

S&P/NZX 50 INDEX

9257

S&P/NZX 10 INDEX

8928

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018 NI SLAUGHTER STEER

SI SLAUGHTER STAG

NI SLAUGHTER COW

($/KG)

PRIME HOGGETS AT CANTERBURY PARK

($/KG)

($/HD)

11.40

4.30

185

Gap looms for lambs

ITH the last of the hoggets now flooding into the sale yards and processors, give it another few weeks and buyers will be twiddling their thumbs waiting for the new season lambs to hit the market. While some on earlier country are not that far off finishing these will not be seen at the sale yards, where throughput generally does not pick up until early November. NORTHLAND NORTHLAND Spring conditions increased confidence and a mainly local buying bench meet a yarding of just over 400 cattle at WELLSFORD last Monday, with one-year pens making up the lion’s share. The market was solid in the two-year section and Angus-cross steers, 470562kg, returned $2.91-$3.02/kg, and Hereford-cross, 394kg, earned $3.05/kg. Hereford-Jersey, 366-506kg, all traded at $2.94-$2.99/kg, while Hereford heifers, 371-401kg, were a highlight, selling for $2.94-$2.98/kg. In the one-year pens returns were varied based on quality and type, Hereford-cross steers, 255-300kg, traded at $3.24-$3.42/kg, while 206kg AngusFriesian fetched $3.08/kg, though six at 237kg pushed to $3.42/kg. Hereford-cross, 289kg, varied from $2.63-$2.84/kg, though 205kg managed $3.27/kg. Angus-Friesian heifers, 172-252kg, traded at $610-$790, for varying $/kg at $3.04-$3.45/kg, and Hereford-Friesian, 192kg, earned $3.91/ kg. The bull section was predominantly dairy based and Jersey-cross, 181-278kg, managed $2.10-$2.30/kg, while Friesiancross, 183-201kg, returned $2.84-$3.03/ kg, though a line of eleven Friesian and Friesian-cross, 155kg, fetched $3.45/kg. Four Hereford cows with bull calves-atfoot sold for $1300 per unit. Grass is growing through at a much slower rate than those in the far north are used to, and coupled with easing schedules, prices at KAIKOHE last Wednesday also eased, PGG Wrightson agent Vaughan Vujcich reported. Numbers equated to around 500

Dollar Watch

If you love the information you get from these pages, you will love AgriHQ’s livestock reports.

LivestockEye

BALANCED: Cattle being sold at the Matawhero sale yards last week.

head and good two-year steers eased to $2.90-$3.02/kg, with lesser beef-cross and dairy-cross making $2.75-$2.80/kg. Older bulls made a brief appearance in the form of Hereford and Simmental and sold for $2.85-$2.90/kg, while heifers struggled with beef lines at $2.85/kg, and lesser types, $2.60-$2.65/kg. Buyer interest for yearling cattle was limited due to the slow grass growth. A nice entry of Angus-Friesian steers just made $3.25-$3.30/kg, while lighter exotic-cross and beef-cross traded at $3.30-$3.40/kg. Friesian and beef-cross bulls made $3.00-$3.20/kg. Heifer prices were very similar to their older sisters as very limited interest meant a lot traded at $2.65-$2.85/kg, with a few better lines up to $3.00/kg. Cow prices followed schedule prices down and the top lines made $1.90-$1.95/ kg, and medium types, $1.80-$1.84/kg. AUCKLAND AUCKLAND Last Saturday’s PUKEKOHE cattle auction saw prices very strong on the quality stock, though a large volume of off-bred types struggled.

This Prior Last NZD vs THE latest weakness in the kiwi week week year dollar is a case of where do you USD 0.6479 0.6616 0.7161 start? BNZ currency strategist EUR 0.5625 0.5683 0.6092 Jason Wong says. AUD 0.9154 0.9170 0.9138 “There’s a lot of headwinds.” GBP 0.4974 0.5059 0.5413 The dollar was at US$0.6498 Correct as of 9am last Friday on the Reserve Bank chart last Thursday, the low since mid July 2009, during the global financial crisis and slipped marginally lower on Friday. The United States-China trade spat is the first of the headwinds, compounded by the US looking to take China on over security concerns. This is hitting China’s currency with flow-on effects on the New Zealand and Aussie dollars and if the Chinese economy also suffers, that will hurt further. Wong said the terms of trade are turning against NZ with dairy export prices down and oil import prices up. The sharp rise in petrol prices is like a tax on consumers, which could impact other spending. Finally, there’s more conviction the US Fed will continue to raise its core interest rates while NZ’s OCR stays put at a lower level. The loss of the interest rate advantage is a key dollar-mover. The US Treasury 10-year rate is at a seven-year high and Wong says US rates are higher than NZ’s right out to a 20-year term. The BNZ’s core forecast for the next six months is for a US$0.65 rate, which means a range from 0.63 to 067, with the lower end more likely. Alan Williams

Photo: Reece Brick

Prime prices were solid as steers hit $3.00-$3.17/kg and heifers, $2.92-$3.15/ kg. A pen of 730kg bulls made $3.04/ kg, while boner cows traded over a wide range of $1.24-$1.74/kg. Quality cattle sold well in the store pens and examples were two-year steers at $2.91-$3.06/kg and light-medium yearling steers at $800-$900, $3.33-$3.71/kg. Very light 18-month steers were buyable at $2.95-$3.15/kg, and weaners sold for $500-$680, with off-bred types earning $300-$350. Heifer numbers were limited and medium yearlings earned $610-$840, $2.85-$3.33/kg, while very small crossbred lines at 95kg made $350. COUNTIES COUNTIES The market for heavy steers and heifers eased slightly at TUAKAU last Thursday, Chris Elliott of PGG Wrightson reported. The bigger steers in the 800-head yarding were back by around 5c/kg and heifer prices eased by about 10c/kg. Hereford-Friesian steers, 495kg, made

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Continued page 46

Sharemarket briefing IT WAS a mixed week for global markets last week following a slew of strongerthan-expected United States economic data, easing concerns over the Italian budget and ongoing Brexit uncertainty. The Dow Jones reached record highs and Japanese shares touched a 27-year high on a weaker yen. Australia’s banking Royal Commission weighed on the financial sector across the ditch. The NZX 50 eased off recent highs. Monday marked the beginning of the traditionally strong December quarter. Since 1950, the S&P 500 has risen 4.1% on average during the final three months of the year (well ahead of the 1.5% average for the other quarters) and returns have been positive 79% of the time. Mid-term elections take place in the US in November and fourth quarter returns are usually even stronger during mid-term election years. US markets started the week off on a positive note on news of Canada joining a trade deal with the US and Mexico. While Nafta had an indefinite lifespan, USMCA will expire in 16 years. The three countries are expected to sign the deal by end of November. Market commentary provided by Craigs Investment Partners

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46 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018

Traceability becoming the new normal for dairy livestock sales Spring sales of dairy cattle have been increasingly influenced by farmers placing a premium on traceability. PGG Wrightson National Dairy Livestock Manager Paul Edwards says sales of service bulls have proceeded well in recent weeks, with farmers responding positively to the advocacy of industry good bodies and the Ministry for Primary Industries. “Dairy New Zealand came out recently to recommend the use of service bulls to farmers. Unless you have high in-calf and conception rates, service bulls are beneficial. Farmers are responding to that recommendation, which is encouraging, and we have seen a noticeable increase in demand since Dairy New Zealand came out with that advice. “Farmers are becoming increasingly committed to securing bulls that are fully traceable. They need to know the status of farms that bulls have come from. A single origin is preferable, and if not, the least number of movements possible is what the market seeks. That goes for all sales, whether yearling Jersey bulls to two-year-old beef bulls. In fact, for all stock purchases now, including heifers sold prior to mating, farmers are asking the same questions, with the traceability aspect in strong demand. “This is a whole new normal, with the market realising that these industry good recommendations are sound advice, and are now being taken on board,” he said. Meanwhile, according to Paul Edwards, spring sales of in-milk cows started positively. “Some farmers have been a little down on numbers and need to supplement their herds. Prices range from $1300 to $2000 per head, with most sales sitting between $1400 and $1600. Our best sale so far was for a herd that averaged $1930. Demand is stronger at the premium end, for cows with demonstrated productivity. “Demand for in-milk cows could firm slightly, depending on grass growth. Although most regions have had a good spring, some are wetter than usual while some are concerned about becoming summer dry. That suggests demand for dairy livestock will fluctuate between regions,” he said. Some herds have been listed for sale for delivery at the beginning of next season, selling in excess of $2000 per head. Paul Edwards says the best herds sell at a premium in spring, though advance herd sales will now drop away during mating, then increase again from late November.

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$3.08/kg, and 450kg, $3.24/kg. Others in the 380-450kg range traded at $2.90-$3.02/ kg, with most 300-350kg steers fetching $3.00-$3.20/kg. Good Shorthorn-cross, 295kg, made $3.52/kg, and HerefordFriesian, 220kg, $3.94/kg. Lighter and lesser-bred yearling steers sold down to $590. Autumn-born Hereford-Friesian weaner steers at 120kg earned $600 and 135kg Murray Grey, $575. Autumn-born Friesian bulls, 135kg, made $550 and a 130kg pen, $530. Most heifers in the 400kg-plus range sold at $2.82-$2.90/kg and 300-350kg heifers earned $2.70-$3.03/kg. There was good buying in the 200-300kg range, with most lots trading at $2.79-$3.24/ kg. Autumn-born Murray Grey weaners, 139kg, made $545 and 130kg HerefordFriesian, $560. Recent schedule changes contributed to a slight easing in prime cattle prices. About 320 cattle were offered last Wednesday and the heavier steers traded at $2.98-$3.08/kg. Medium types earned $2.84-$2.95/kg, and lighter $2.60-$2.90/ kg. The heifer market was back by 10c/ kg as heavy types sold to $2.95-$3.00/ kg, medium $2.85-$2.95/kg, and lighter beef heifers down to $2.75/kg. A small entry of dairy-type heifers fetched $2.16$2.45/kg. Cows were in short supply. Beef cows traded at $2.10-$2.40/kg and well-conditioned Friesian $1.92-$2.06/kg. Good-medium cows made $1.75-$1.90/kg, and lighter boners $1.40-$1.70/kg. Heavy beef bulls, 700-900kg, sold at $2.70-$2.90/ kg. Prime lambs continued to sell well at last Monday’s sheep sale, with the heavy lots fetching $175-$220. Good-medium primes made $145-$175 and stores $100$130. The best of the prime ewes sold up to $175 and medium types made $120$145. Lighter ewes sold down to $66 and cull rams averaged $75. About 1150 ewes and lambs were yarded. WAIKATO Just under 1200 cattle were penned at FRANKTON last Wednesday and though quality varied the market was solid for most. A small two-year steer section softened with 380-424kg earning $2.71-$2.83/kg. Angus heifers, 400kg, maintained levels of $2.90/kg, but the balance eased as Hereford-cross, 347-381kg, made $2.75$2.80/kg, and beef-dairy, 342-417kg, $2.80-$2.92/kg. Yearling cattle traded on a predominantly steady market, though Angus steers, 286-314kg, lifted to $3.18$3.34/kg. Angus-Hereford, 292-328kg, were solid at $3.14-$3.24/kg, while Anguscross, 227-290kg, eased to $3.00-$3.10/kg. Hereford-Friesian steers were strong with most 282-351kg and earning $3.19-$3.30/ kg. Those 360-380kg achieved $3.03$3.14/kg, and 223-253kg, $740-$905 for varied $/kg. In the heifer pens most Angus-Hereford, 185-319kg, improved to $3.10-$3.18/ kg, as did Angus-Friesian, 262kg, $3.05/ kg. Hereford-cross, 292-316kg, returned $3.07-$3.09/kg, while 219-237kg fetched $2.66-$2.73/kg, and 184-208kg, $2.86$2.91/kg. Hereford-Friesian sold in two main cuts, albeit at a discount to last sale. Those 213-239kg earned $2.86-$2.94/kg, and 256-311kg, $3.06-$3.17/kg, though eight, 282kg, pushed to $3.26/kg. Yearling bulls eased for the majority with Hereford, 295kg, at $2.71/kg, though a line of three, 295kg, were chased to $1000, $3.41/kg. Hereford-Friesian, 272310kg, earned $2.61-$2.73/kg. Beef-cross bulls, 142-186kg, were a highlight in the autumn-born weaner pens, fetching $545-$575. The prime market was solid for the majority and all steers, 490-670kg, traded at $2.87-$3.05/kg, with the heifers, 472511kg, earning $2.90-$3.14/kg. Three Devon bulls, 722kg, broke the $2000 mark

returning $2105, $2.92/kg. Friesian and Friesian-cross boner cows, 356-604kg, softened to $1.80-$1.99/kg. Feeder calf numbers dropped to 430 though quality improved. Top Friesian bulls improved to $170, though medium and small eased to $100 and $50 respectively. Hereford-Friesian were strong with good and medium types lifting to $350 and $260. A lift was seen for all heifers of the same breeding as good types returned $150, medium $100 and small $60. BAY OF PLENTY BAY OF PLENTY Major buyers were welcomed back to the rostrum at RANGIURU last Tuesday as spring grass growth finally allows it. Prices across all store classes rebounded to levels seen in early spring. Two-year steer prices were solid and traditional, 380-400kg, returned $2.84$2.89/kg, however Hereford-Friesian, 404446kg, were hard to beat at $2.93-$3.02/ kg. A very small yarding of heifers earned $2.64-$2.71/kg, while five Hereford bulls, 504kg, sold for breeding at $3.77/kg. Yearling steer prices lifted and more exceeded $1000. Ranges of $3.50-$3.54/ kg was achieved for beef-dairy, 254-311kg, and a line Hereford-Friesian managed $3.81/kg. Angus and Angus-cross, 282285kg, sold for $3.61-$3.62/kg. Most heifers earned $3.22-$3.43/kg, with $700$900 achieved. A pen of 15 Friesian bulls, 308kg, returned $900, $2.92/kg. Prime prices eased as a small entry of steers made $2.99-$3.03/kg. Heifers sold for $2.90-$2.97/kg, and Friesian cows, 520-625kg, $1.95/kg. The best of the prime hoggets reached $186-$212, with store hoggets trading at $87-$135. TARANAKI TARANAKI The TARANAKI cattle sale met all expectations last Wednesday – following two fairs it was small and featured mixed quality tidy-up lines, with prices easing for most. Three-year Friesian heifers, 426-460kg, returned $1.88-$1.96/kg, which was a 3-10c/kg premium over two-year Friesian, 359-385kg, $1.84-$1.87/kg. A few lines of two-year HerefordFriesian steers sold to $3.15-$3.17/kg, but the majority earned $2.98-$3.09/kg. Beefcross, 463-532kg, made $2.87-$2.94/kg. Just 111 yearlings were penned though were well spread though all classes. Seven Angus-Friesian steers, 316kg, sold for $3.16/kg, while 190kg Hereford-Friesian reached $4.24/kg. Heifer highlights included a line of Hereford Friesian, 249kg, at $3.25/kg, while two Speckle Park-cross, 312kg, made $3.27/kg. Friesian and Friesian-cross bulls, 180-281kg, sold for $2.78-$2.82/kg. Prime cattle were lacking in volume but had plenty of weight. Steers were a mix of breeds and weighed 587-685kg, with all trading at $2.89-$3.03/kg. Quality was similar through the heifer pens for lighter weights of 505-545kg, and these received $2.88-$2.96/kg. POVERTY BAY POVERTY BAY It was a fairly standard selection of store cattle put forward at MATAWHERO. A large entry of quality 400-485kg traditional two-year steers were a draw card and sold for $3.35-$3.55/kg. Other 400-460kg steers claimed a respectable $3.10-$3.15/kg. One large line of 360kg two-year traditional heifers made $3.05/ kg, $1105. Yearling steers generated solid results and heavy traditionals were the favourites as 300-330kg pens returned $1155-$1320, $3.85-$4.05/kg. Lighter cuts and lines with mixed breeding sold well enough for what they were, putting these 175-250kg pens in the middle of $3.40-$3.75/kg. The few bidders on the yearling heifers worked to per head budgets. Some 275kg Charolais-

cross were arguably the pick of the bunch, making $920, $3.35/kg, with other 210260kg straight-beef pens at $690-$755. Quality was hard to come by through the rest, often just $460-$610. Two large pens of 275-310kg Hereford bulls sold for dairy service use at $1245$1400, $4.50/kg. There was a big drop back on other breeds, like 310kg Angus which sold for $295 less than the equivalent Herefords. Per kilo rates were mainly in the upper-$2.00/kg area. Early October is typically very quiet in the sheep pens at Matawhero, but last Friday’s sale was the smallest seen with fewer than 100 sheep penned and store hoggets absent. What the prime hoggets lacked in quantity they made up for in quality as the top male lines sold for $210-$215.50 and rams, $200-$211.50. Other lines sold on a softer market with the best of the ewe hoggets earning $185-$186. Just two lines of ewes were penned and sold for $137-$140, while four older wethers returned $135. HAWKE’S BAY HAWKE’S BAY Prime hoggets last Monday easily outnumbered a very small offering of stores at STORTFORD LODGE last Wednesday, as volume fell with a bang. High prices attracted yet another big yarding of store cattle and outside competition drove the market. Just sixteen prime cattle were yarded last Monday, with 12 Angus heifers, 473kg, fetching $2.97/kg. Male hoggets traded on a steady to easing market, with top cuts softer at $210-$234.50 and heavy $184-$204.50. All ram lines were steady to easing with very heavy types at $192-$220. Ewe hoggets were steady to lifting, with very heavy types improving to $191-$198.50, as did very good lines up to $178-$188.50. Heavy types were steady at $188.50-$191, and good $156-$161. Very heavy ewes made $181-$219, and heavy $160-$176, though less demand for medium-good and good ewes meant these eased to $127-$136, with lightmedium and medium lines trading at $101.50-$120. Very-good to heavy twotooth to four-tooth ewes were steady at $146-$158.50, whilst heavy two-tooth ewes managed $169.50. After a consistent run of lambs throughout the year, store hogget volume took a dive to just 310 head. The pick were good ewe hoggets which sold on a steady market at $146-$152. A line of 10 new season lambs had a big range of lamb size and sold very well at $122. Ewes with lambs-at-foot made up for the lack of hoggets though results were mixed. Two small lines of very good and good Romney ewes and older lambs still sold up to $129.50-$130 all counted, but buying was easier on light-medium ewes with younger lambs which ranged from $104 to $109. Another large number of store cattle accumulated to a 760 head yarding. Angus were front and centre in the steer pens and also a smaller two-year heifer section. Buyers had to dig deep for two-year Angus steers as 475-501kg lifted to $3.54-$3.60/ kg, with 531kg earning $3.44/kg. Lighter beef lines also sold just over $3.60/kg, while Hereford-Friesian, 364-414kg, varied from $3.34/kg for the lighter line to $3.14/ kg. Angus heifer prices firmed and 410446kg returned $3.16-$3.21/kg, with most other lines trading at $3.09-$3.10/kg. A regular buyer from further north was hard to beat in the yearling pens. A consignment of Angus steers were by far the highlight, and sold empty those 229257kg made $1030-$1105, $4.30-$4.50/kg, with other lines mainly trading at $3.70$3.81/kg. One line of Angus heifers, 250kg, managed $3.44/kg, but most of the focus

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was on Hereford-Friesian which sold in two price ranges of $3.12$3.14/kg for the heavier lines, and $2.94-$2.98/kg for 230-252kg. The one section to feel a bit of pressure was the yearling bulls as prices softened. Friesian, 249258kg, sold for $2.88-$2.95/kg. MANAWATU MANAWATU Yearling cattle continued to flow into RONGOTEA last Wednesday with the majority being Friesiancross steers and heifers, New Zealand Farmers Livestock agent Darryl Harwood reported. Heavier cattle of any quality were in short supply and two-year beefFriesian steers, 417-437kg, earned $2.85-$3.05/kg and Friesian-cross, 410kg, $2.50/kg. Friesian heifers, 303–445kg, realised $2.07-$2.48/ kg while Angus-cross, 432kg, made $1260, and Hereford- Friesian, 453kg, $1270. The yearling section was dominated by lesser-bred Friesian and Friesian-cross cattle which realised $1.33-$1.95/kg. Friesian bulls, 235–287kg, made $2.76$3.41/kg and Friesian-cross, 255– 317kg, $1.96-$2.42/kg. HerefordFriesian, 197kg, returned $460. Yearling Friesian and Friesiancross steers realised $2.12-$2.30/ kg. Hereford-Friesian, 216kg, made $735 and Angus-cross, 317kg, $750. Better lines of Hereford-Friesian heifers, 190–381kg, earned $450$1150 and Angus-cross, 192kg, $485. Smaller lines of dairy beef heifers returned $2.50-$2.60/kg. In the weaner pens well-marked Friesian bulls at 108kg made $500, and Hereford-Friesian steers, 180kg, $590. Hereford Friesian heifers, 105–167kg ranged from $390-$490 and Angus-cross, 95kg, $320. In the calf pens, Friesian bulls made $75-$140, Hereford-Friesian $60-$175, Simmental-cross $250, and Angus-cross $85-$140. Hereford-Friesian heifers traded at $80-$140 and Angus-cross $80$120. Prime hogget volume is trending down but there were still over 5000 penned at FEILDING last Monday. Prices eased and only two lines of very heavy males and one pen of mixed sex sold to $200. A large portion were heavier types and nearly 80% of the mixed sex sold for $180-$198. A handful of fresh two-tooth’s earned $110-$140. A few more wet-dry ewes ventured out and this market was status quo. One line sold to $173, with a good quantity at $144-$152. Medium-good lines returned $116$131. The cattle section was exciting for a 30 head yarding as extra buyers spread the successful bids. Angus bulls ranged from 370kg to 800kg but made similar $/kg at $2.71-$2.92/kg. Four Friesian heifers, 412kg, earned $2.38/kg and Friesian cow’s firmed as 380-610kg sold for $2.09-$2.13/kg. Feeder calves numbered 200 head and bulls sold on a steady market. Friesian returned $180$210 and most beef-cross, $110$300. Good Hereford-Friesian heifers sold well at $105-$175, but lesser lines eased to $50-$100. Both the yarding and crowd were very large at the FEILDING cattle yards on Friday, leading to solid results throughout. Big numbers of two-year traditional steers were a highlight and sold well, putting 540-605kg at

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018 $3.26-$3.38/kg whereas 420-490kg were $3.35-$3.58/kg. A handful of 515-535kg Hereford-Friesians were more like $3.07-$3.14/kg. Two-year heifers were scarce, but three pens of 405-410kg traditionals all made $3.06-$3.14/kg. It was a similar store in the older bull market too, where just two reasonable size pens of 455-525kg Friesian eased to $2.99-$3.05/kg. A set of 340-365kg traditional and exotic steers were strong selling at $3.48-$3.67/kg, $1190$1340, but otherwise this section was quite mixed. Some 275kg Angus & Angus-Hereford’s were a highlight at $1170, $4.29/kg, but a lot of the remainder, heavier and lighter, were in the mid-$3.00/kg range. One-year heifers mainly were mainly 240-325kg HerefordFriesians, making $3.10-$3.23/ kg, though some 235-280kg Angus and Charolais-cross were a solid $3.57-$3.60/kg. The bulls were quite bit-and-miss. Some 245305kg Friesians were consistently $2.90-$3.03/kg, with 195-245kg of all breeds often $3.25-$3.32/kg. Store hogget volume has been declining rapidly since midSeptember at FEILDING, and the trend continued last Friday with numbers falling to just shy of 1400 head. Ewes with lambs-at-foot went some way to filling the gap and elements of the sale were stronger, though medium ewes with younger lambs softened. Lines that comprised of multiple lambs with some age on them sold well, achieving $118-$123.50, but prices quickly dropped from there to $99$101.50 for lines with small lambs. Two pens of Perendale ewes with multiple lambs made $98-$99 all counted. The store hogget section held up surprisingly well and though the overall trend of the market was down, some classes still sold on a sound market. Ewe hoggets easily dominated but there was also a respectable entry of mixed sex as traders offload. Good types of both classes made $133-$146, and medium-good ewe hoggets returned $122-$151. Lesser lines eased and $98-$130 could be found for these types. A small entry of heavy male hoggets made $191$199. One line of new season ram lambs sold for $101 CANTERBURY CANTERBURY Prime hoggets ruled the sheep pens at CANTERBURY PARK last Tuesday, while the prime and store cattle sale sold with mixed results. Of the 4100 yarding of sheep 3100 were prime hoggets. They flooded the market and combined with the lateness of the season prices eased. The $200 mark was non-existent as the tops hit $190$194. Most traded at $160-$189, with a handful earning $140-$159. A firm market for a small ewe section meant lines still exceeded $200. Good and heavy lines earned $170-$251, and medium to medium-good, $128-$166. Lighter types made $85-$125. Ewes with lambs-at-foot came forward in a number of very small lines with the top lines at $115-$120 all counted, and the remainder of the mixed age, $90$105. Store hogget volume fell to 340 head and fine wool lines featured. A line of medium Merino mixed sex sold for $115, while a small,

light line made $74. The remainder sold to limited interest. Very mixed reviews came out of the rostrum as store cattle bidding was cautious and the prime market was a game of two halves. Two -year steers struggled to hit the $3.00/kg mark, with three lighter lines with some potential making it to $3.02-$3.05/kg. Heavier beef-cross, 400-484kg, eased to $2.88/kg. The yearling market was similar with values below $3.00/kg very common. A few stand-out lines of Hereford-cross steers, 221-241kg, earned $3.32-$3.46/kg, and seven Shorthorn-cross heifers, 285kg, $3.35/kg. Other Hereford-cross steers, 305-363kg, made heifer values of $2.85-$2.98/kg, while Hereford-Friesian heifers, 206212kg, traded at $620-$650, $3.01$3.07/kg. Bull prices were well down as five Hereford-cross, 348kg, made $900, $2.59/kg, but other lines traded at $2.22-$2.26/kg. Good prime steers pushed to $3.12-$3.16/kg, though plainer types were more like $3.00-$3.06/ kg. Beef-cross heifers followed a similar pattern to $3.02-$3.09/ kg for the better types and $2.82$2.95/kg for second cuts. A small entry of ewes with lambs-at-foot were a talking point at COALGATE last Thursday. A good crowd gathered around the small yarding of ewes with lamb-at-foot. The top lines of single ewes and lambs made $134$136 all counted, while 29 ewes and 40 lambs sold well at $122. Easing mutton schedules did not help the prime ewe market and prices eased. A wide range were offered, from $80-$88 ewes up to better types at $150-$177. Just one small line sold up to $190. Prime hogget numbers were high at 3300 and the market lost a further $5-$8. Top prices were $191-$196 though that was for minimal numbers, with most lines trading at $160-$188. The balance sold for $122-$159. Store hoggets were virtually non-existent. The prime cattle market responded to easing schedules by doing the same. The highlight was two lines of Limousin bulls, 635662kg, which sold for $3.20-$3.23/ kg, $2051-$2118. Good beef steers traded well, achieving levels of $3.10-$3.16/ kg, but these were limited with a greater portion beef-dairy at $2.72-$2.91/kg. A smaller yarding of heifers was more consistent though also eased. Most weighed 465-523kg and sold for $2.82$2.93/kg. Cows sold in three price brackets but the bulk had good weight at 527-643kg and retailed on a firm market for $1.80-$1.86/kg. Quality was mixed through the 142 head yarding of store cattle. All the two-year traditional cattle hailed from one property. Steers, 355-418kg, sold on a steady market at $3.23-$3.32/kg, while heifers were variable as 400kg made $2.95/ kg, but 332kg sold at an 18c/kg discount. The yearlings were a mix of breeds and while Hereford-Friesian steers made the higher per head prices of $710-$1150, a small line of Angus, 218kg, won the $/kg stakes at $3.21/kg. Just on 23c/kg separated Angus heifers, 236kg, from an Angus-Friesian line of same weight. Bulls had the weight and breeding but no audience and

all lines were well below $3.00/kg. SOUTH CANTERBURY SOUTH CANTERBURY Quality kept the bids flowing in the rostrum at TEMUKA last Monday. Fine wool breeds filled most store and prime hogget pens and though prices trended down returns were still pleasing. Of the 1660 store hoggets penned just over 900 were part of two consignments – one halfbred ewe hoggets and the other Merino mixed sex. Most were good types and the majority of the section sold for $140-$152, while a line of 360 medium halfbred ewe hoggets returned $133. Prime hogget numbers nearly matched the stores. Prices came back with most weights losing at least $10 per head. Just one line exceeded $200 and most that would typically hit that level made $180-$196. The remainder traded at $140-$179. Ewe volume was low and one buyer dominated the market. Top lines easily out-priced the hoggets at $200-$268, though a large number of lesser types made $100-$138. Despite limited processor space heavy steers and heifers, along with boner cows, all sold on a firm market. The only section to ease was the boner heifers. Angus steers, 565-700kg, made a premium of 3c/kg over Hereford of similar weight, but Hereford-cross also finished at $3.01-$3.08/kg. Well finished Friesian, 620-686kg, managed $2.91-$2.98/kg, though plainer types of all breeds softened to $2.80-$2.88/kg. Heifer volume almost doubled and a better quality offering was hard to say no to. Hereford-cross, 520-660kg, lifted to $2.96/kg, though local trade types did soften to $2.70-$2.81/kg. Boner heifers lost around 15c/kg as 424-500kg returned $2.26-$2.31/kg. There was no differentiation between beef and dairy cows as Friesian prices firmed around 7c/ kg. A big portion fell in a 544-760kg weight band and sold for $1.80$1.90/kg, with good yielding lines at 485-499kg also in that vicinity. Lesser types at 507-514kg and Kiwi-cross, 469-513kg, earned $1.76-$1.83/kg. OTAGO OTAGO The much anticipated MOUNT BENGER Spring Cattle Fair was well attended by both buyers and 1100 head of cattle last Tuesday. The majority of the cattle were yearlings, with quality exotic and traditional featuring, PGG Wrightson agent Chris Swale reported. Prices were on par with last year’s exceptional results. Quality was top notch and the heavier steers came in at 350kg plus, with second cuts mainly ranging from 280-320kg. Top quality Charolaiscross steers sold up to $1430, with most exotic lines ranging from $1250-$1430. Black composite steers made $1490, with top Angus & Angus-Hereford reaching $1410. Most good traditional steers earned $1200-$1410 with medium steers across the breeds making $1000-$1100, and third cuts, $900$1000. Buyers from Ranfurly easily dominated in the steer pens. Demand did not waver on the heifers and all top lines traded at $1100-$1290. Second cuts returned $850-$980 with few lines

trading below that level. Mid and South Canterbury dominated this market, while Southland buyers kept the pressure on. Prime hoggets featured at BALCLUTHA last Tuesday, alongside a bigger ewes with lambs-at-foot, PGG Wrightson agent Alex Horn reported. The prime hoggets are having a solid run to the end and prices for heavy types maintained levels of $170-$188, with medium types firm at $150-$170 and lighter, $130$150. Store hogget volume was low and forward to medium types sold for $100-$110, though lighter types met buyer resistance and sat around $69. Strong demand for ewes with lambs-at-foot though meant ewes with a one-year mouth were selling for $110-$120 all counted. The first PALMERSTON spring cattle fair on Friday 28th September met expectations, with solid demand for traditional cattle in particular. Around 1250 were offered and buyers mainly hailed from Central Otago, though South Canterbury and Southland also participated. Two- year traditional steers made $3.20-$3.40/kg and beefFriesian, $3.00-$3.10/kg. Heifers were mainly traditional cattle and ranged from $2.80/kg up to $3.00/ kg. Traditional cattle also dominated in the yearling pens with very good results posted. Heavy steers, 320360kg, earned $3.50-$3.70/kg, with lighter lines coming in at $4.00$4.40/kg. Heifer numbers were limited but those offered made $3.40-$3.80/kg. Hereford bulls sold for breeding at $4.40-$4.50/kg. SOUTHLAND SOUTHLAND Sheep were virtually nonexistent at LORNEVILLE last Tuesday, but that was made up for by solid volumes of cattle. The store hogget pens were empty with just a handful around the $100 mark, while ewes with lambs-at-foot earned $115-$120 all counted. There was a bit more action in the prime pens and hoggets held adjusted levels as heavy types made $170-$185, medium $155$170, and lighter, $140-$152. Ewes continue to sell well and the best of the bunch earned $160-$180, medium $140-$160 and light, $80$140. More volume in the cattle pens meant mixed results for prime cattle. Steers, 600kg, sold for $2.78/ kg, though beef heifers, 440kg, eased to $2.60-$2.70/kg. Dairy heifers of similar weight made $2.20-$2.40/kg, while bulls, 500kg, returned $2.60/kg. In the cow pens price ranges widened as heavy types made $1.90-$2.10/kg and 450-500kg, $1.70-$1.90/kg. Lighter types improved to $1.60-$1.70/kg. Growing demand for store cattle was noted in the prices paid. Twoyear Angus-cross steers, 383kg, achieved $3.13/kg, with values similar for yearling beef-cross, 260270kg, at $780-$850, $3.00-$3.14/ kg. Heifers of same breed and weight made $760-$850, $2.92$3.03/kg. A run of yearling Friesian bulls made solid returns with the first cut at 303kg making $3.06/ kg and third cut, 187kg, $3.04/kg. Those 288kg were lesser quality and only managed $2.77/kg.

Markets

48 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 8, 2018 COARSE WOOL INDICATOR

NI SLAUGHTER BULL

SI SLAUGHTER STEER

($/KG)

5.35

3.21

5.70

ONE-YEAR HEREFORDFRIESIAN STEERS, 300-310KG, AT RANGIURU ($/KG LW)

$1250-$1430 $3.91-$4.00/kg high lights Good one-year One-year Angus Charolias-cross steers steers, 320-330kg, at Matawhero at Mount Benger

3.50

Recovery worries buyers NZ production will be a key factor for the direction of prices over the remainder of the season.

Hugh Stringleman

hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz

ROSPECTS of a good spring flush for milk production have again trimmed world prices at the most-recent Global Dairy Trade auction, when the index fell by 1.9%, the ninth consecutive fall. Its is now mid May since the GDT index registered a rise and during that four and a half months the dairy market has lost a cumulative 15.7%. That is a slow decline by international dairy market standards, showing supply and demand are balanced but the market is worried by New Zealand milk production recovery. Rabobank said nearperfect weather and more cows milked over the winter resulted in production growth of 5% year-on-year during the seasonal trough from June to August. NZ farmers also report considerably increased milk flows in September, in the run up to peak production in late October. NZ is the world’s biggest dairy products exporter. However, milk output around the rest of the world has been static or declining, particularly in drought-hit areas of Europe. Aggregate production in the Big 7 (Europe, the United States, NZ, Australia, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina) was 1% higher year-on-year during

Nathan Penny ASB

SLOWING: A lack of buyer urgency has resulted in weaker dairy commodity prices, Rabobank analyst Emma Higgins says.

the first six months of 2018, Rabobank said. Rabobank dairy analyst Emma Higgins said the jump in NZ milk supply has created a lack of buyer urgency for Oceania-origin products over the past quarter and that continued in the most recent GDT event. “This lack of buyer urgency has resulted in weaker pricing which fed into the bank’s downward revision to its fullyear forecast from $6.80/kg MS to $6.65 for this season,” she said. Fonterra reported the European Union and US have increased dairy exports by a combined 440,000 tonnes in the 12 months to May and July respectively. China took almost all of that increase, its imports up 17%

or 394,000 tonnes to March, two-thirds of which was infant formula, whole milk powder and skim milk powder. Imports across the Middle East and Africa were up 4% or 148,000 tonnes in the year to May with SMP, cheese and fresh products predominating. Fonterra said its North Island collection was up 2% in the first three months of the NZ season and South Island production was up 13%. Poor seasonal conditions in Australia mean milk collection is down by 8% in the first two months of its season. The latest GDT contained large falls for milk fat products with butter down 5.9% and anhydrous milk fat down 4.4%. At $US4000 and $5000/

tonne respectively they are down 30% and 20% since May but are still above their longterm averages. ASB senior rural economist Nathan Penny said weather conditions in NZ were favourable to dairying and good on-farm cashflows facilitated buying of feed and fertiliser to boost production. “NZ production will be a key factor for the direction of prices over the remainder of the season. “We anticipate growth of 2% and production in excess of this would lead to additional price weakness and vice versa.” While prices had fallen 15% in US dollar terms they had fallen a much more modest 2.5% in NZ dollar terms, which is propping up the farmgate milk price. Penny maintained his $6.50 forecast while noting the downside risks. For Westpac, senior economist Anne Boniface noted the same risks stemming from NZ production running 5% ahead of last year and said her forecast is $6.25.

It’s about store cattle and prime hoggets SALES around the country have slipped into a typical pattern for this time of year, with the last rush to offload prime hoggets pushing up volume and spring cattle fairs in full swing. Suz Bremner The cattle sales are not only AgriHQ Analyst happening at the yards that hold regular sales but a number of smaller yards such as Palmerston and Cheviot are putting up very good numbers alongside some on-farm sales in the South Island. Store cattle numbers have been building at yards around the country as the muchanticipated spring markets kick into gear. They started with all guns blazing in August as buyers anticipated some very tough competition going forward. However, demand very quickly declined as cold fronts hit the country but we now see demand going some way to match the numbers and prices have rebounded. Most North Island yards are generally trading at a 10-15c/kg premium on last year for traditional and beef-dairy steers and heifers. A quick whip around the North Island yards over the last few weeks has seen traditional yearling steers, 270-340kg, making $3.80-$4/kg and beef-Friesian, $3.30-$3.50/kg. Beef-Friesian heifers at 220-270kg have been trading at $2.90-$3.20/kg. Older traditional steers have a big following with the same buyers turning up at each sale and this year they are paying $3.30-$3.60/kg for most 450kg and better. Yards such as Stortford Lodge and Feilding are selling at the higher end of that range. Two-year Friesian bulls have also been selling well with most 430-490kg ranging from $3.15-$3.30/kg. While prices are looking good at the moment there is caution waiting in the wings with beef outlooks not the best we have seen and also there is some nervousness around a dry summer for many areas, with some areas already wanting some rain. suz.bremner@globalhq.co.nz

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Plus on selected models get a free Coleman tent and sleeping bag worth $280. WWW.SUZUKI.CO.NZ/KIDS_ADVENTURE_UNPLUGGED WWW.SUZUKI.CO.NZ Terms and conditions: Free Adventure pack available on all purchases of DR-Z125L, JR80, LT-Z50 and LT-Z90 only, and includes Coleman Sundome 4 Outdoor Tent and Coleman Mudgee CO Sleeping Bag. Adventure pack is not included with DR-Z50 and DR-Z125 purchases. Finance Now deal is No Deposit, on a 24-month term, with the first 6 months no payments, and 0% interest, with the following 18 months at 19.95% interest. Promotion runs from 1 September 2018 to 31 January 2019.

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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 2018 Property Pull-Out October 8, 2018

farmersweekly.co.nz

View your future

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ALTOGETHER BETTER IN THE

The Spring 2018 edition of Country is out now, with a fresh line-up of the best farm, specialty and lifestyle properties for sale altogether in one place. We also raise a glass to New Zealand hops and the craft beer industry; look at the viability of timber processing to make our forestry sector more competitive internationally and discuss wealth creation for farmers through commercial property investment. Plus we check out A&P Shows and calf days to see how they keep our rural traditions alive. For your copy of Country magazine, including the latest insights and editorial content on key topics of interest to the rural property sector, call 0800 BAYLEYS or view online. Your search for something altogether better starts here.

A LT O G E T H E R B E T T E R

More value from trees a big challenge Interest in forestry and wood processing from government is welcome, but adding value to logs can be a tough job.

The show must go on

The traditional A&P Show is holding its own in a changing society and continues to unite rural and urban communities.

FEATURING

125

RURAL REAL ESTATE BRAND

FARM, SPECIALTY AND LIFESTYLE PROPERTIES FOR SALE ISSUE 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2018

bayleys.co.nz/country LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services

NEW LISTING

Boundary lines are indicative only

Te Puke 2230 Old Coach Road

Dairy, lifestyle and diversity A 166ha (more or less) dairy farm and a 65ha (more or less) run-off in seven titles. Close to the coastline with magnificent views, these properties provide options for a savvy investor. Located midway between Tauranga and Whakatane, the contour is best described as predominantly flat with areas of rolling higher land. Excellent infrastructure includes 40 ASHB shed supported by a feed pad, plus multiple sheds for machinery and calf rearing. A weeping wall system for effluent works alongside pasture irrigation, providing summer protection. With three excellent water supplies and pumice race system, all is at hand for a productive farm. Well accommodated with four homes, the main being a superb four bedroom enjoying the best of views - all within an excellent local community with a sought after school. Continue as a dairy farm or explore subdivision potential.

Tender (unless sold prior) Closing 4pm, Wed 7 Nov 2018 247 Cameron Road, Tauranga View 11am-12pm Wed 10 Oct Mark Spitz 027 442 1295 mark.spitz@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/2305432

bayleys.co.nz

NEW LISTING

Dannevirke 1096 Ngapaeruru Road, Te Uri

Rolling Downs Station, three scale options The sale of Rolling Downs Station provides an exceptional opportunity to secure a quality landholding. Located only 28km north east of Dannevirke in the strong Te Uri farming district, Rolling Downs Station is offered for sale with three different purchase options. The entire 1,738ha or the 566ha Tunakore block or the Main platform comprised of 1,172ha. The station has its own airstrip and 100 tonne fertiliser bin, and a 5km all weather truck and trailer road into the central cattle yards and covered sheep yards. In total, improvements include three large woolshed/covered yards, three main sheep and cattle yards, several sets of satellite yards, four homesteads and numerous lockable workshop/implement sheds, completing this top quality offering.

bayleys.co.nz/2851260

bayleys.co.nz

Tender (unless sold prior) Closing 4pm, Tue 13 Nov 2018 17 Napier Road, Havelock North View 12-4pm Wed 10 Oct Tony Rasmussen 027 429 2253 tony.rasmussen@bayleys.co.nz Vic Ellingham 027 201 6707 vic.ellingham@bayleys.co.nz EASTERN REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

FINAL NOTICE

Oruanui 1443 Poihipi Road

Kinloch View farm

On every level this 175 hectare (more or less) property will exceed expectations located just 14km from Taupo town centre. Mountain and lake views add an aesthetic value, along with the 51 hectares (more or less) of trees made up of 41 ha native and 10 ha exotics, all fenced and pruned. Not only does this property fatten stock to very good weights, the current owners are also members of the Taupo Beef brand. The property currently winters 420 cattle approximately - made up of R1yr and R2yr beef cattle and includes approximately 90 dairy heifers per annum. There are extra cattle purchased as the grass growth allows. We believe the property has a “twist” for the next owner to exploit… You may choose to farm, future development or a potential tourist opportunity - just to name a few!

Auction (unless sold prior) 5pm, Fri 19 Oct 2018 Level 1, 38 Roberts Street, Taupo View by appointment Stan Sickler 021 275 7826 stan.sickler@bayleys.co.nz

WESTERMAN REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/2651162

FINAL NOTICE

Hawke's Bay Mutiny Road, Hastings

Grow almost anything on 80ha with water Rarely does one get the opportunity to purchase a large 80 hectare (two titles) area of flat land so close to Hastings and Havelock North. The property is currently finishing lambs as part of a mixed cropping regime, with annual crops grown, such as carrots, onions, squash, maize, sweetcorn and peas. The land has strategic tile drainage and a consent to irrigate, meaning the options to grow almost anything are fantastic. The 3-stand woolshed, sheep yards/cattle yards provide the facilities for efficient livestock handling. Peat soil types and a good fertiliser history provide the fertility, combined with good water one can grow almost anything. Don't miss the opportunity to secure this large parcel of quality land.

Tender (will not be sold prior) Closing 4pm, Thu 18 Oct 2018 17 Napier Road, Havelock North View by appointment Tony Rasmussen 027 429 2253 tony.rasmussen@bayleys.co.nz EASTERN REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/2851323

bayleys.co.nz

NEW LISTING

Dannevirke 447 Pukeatua Road

Superbly located 545ha with rainfall Rarely does one get the opportunity to purchase such a well located farm, only 11km south of Dannevirke. 'Atahua' is a very well balanced 545ha sheep and beef farm which has 64ha of flat and easy land that has been developed with two water systems reticulating water to the majority of the property. Fenced into 48 main paddocks, a central laneway and five sets of satellite sheep yards, workability is exceptionally good. Improvements include a refurbished five bedroom homestead, accommodation for staff, implement sheds, four stand woolshed/covered yards complex and cattle yards near the front of the property. Don't miss the chance to own this versatile property in what is regarded as a great farming climate with generally reliable rainfall.

bayleys.co.nz/2851305

Tender (unless sold prior) Closing 4pm, Fri 16 Nov 2018 17 Napier Road, Havelock North View 9-11am Wed 10 Oct Tony Rasmussen 027 429 2253 tony.rasmussen@bayleys.co.nz Vic Ellingham 027 201 6707 vic.ellingham@bayleys.co.nz EASTERN REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Lagoon Hill Station Tuturumuri, South Wairarapa

Scale, diversity, location – 4,273.5 hectares • Iconic large-scale sheep and beef breeding station superbly presented with excellent fertiliser history and well graphed stock performance, wintering some 10,000 ewes and 500 cows over circa 2,190 hectares, and boasting brilliant infrastructure and stock selection. • 1,360 hectares (NSA) of mixed age forestry offers immediate cash flow options with staggered harvesting. • Exclusive hunting camp accommodation situated on 203 hectares of native bush, river frontage and open face clearings presents numerous tourism ventures. • Available in four titles (subject to final survey) located 20 minutes east of booming Martinborough, Lagoon Hill Station is a fantastic opportunity with huge potential. Visit www.lagoonhillstation.co.nz for full details.

Tender (unless sold prior) Closing 4pm, Fri 16 Nov 2018 Bayleys House, 30 Gaunt Street, Auckland Selling 'all or parts' of the portfolio View by appointment Mike Bayley 021 670 101 Lindsay Watts 027 246 2542

bayleys.co.nz/1686618

BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LTD, AUCKLAND CENTRAL, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008 EASTERN REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz

NEW LISTING

Ohoka 545 Main Drain Road

'Lyn-Lea' On the Ohoka village boundary, this 127.1865ha land-holding is positioned perfectly for future development. It is currently operating as a low-cost, high-yielding dairy farm, with 2017/18 production of 185,822kgMS from 411 cows through a 30-bail rotary dairy. There is well-established shelter, great access, a mix of surface and well water for irrigation, excellent farm infrastructure and two very good homes. A third home is available on its own adjoining 4ha title. The wonderfully presented five-bedroom, two-bathroom homestead is set in established grounds with an in-ground pool. On the market for the first time since 1944, 'Lyn-Lea' presents the opportunity to purchase a first-rate dairy operation, underpinned by its fantastic location, with possible future development opportunities.

bayleys.co.nz/558335

For Sale by Deadline Private Treaty (unless sold prior)

4pm, Thu 1 Nov 2018 3 Deans Ave, Chch View by appointment Ben Turner 027 530 1400 ben.turner@bayleys.co.nz Peter Foley 021 754 737 WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

NEW LISTING

North Canterbury

Versatile coastal farm

A versatile and well-balanced 289ha North Canterbury property with excellent production from irrigated flats and good sheep and cattle grazing on gently-rolling improved hill. It is very-well improved with an excellent history of fertilser and re-grassing, a high standard of fencing, very good access via excellent lanes, reliable house and stock water and top-class infrastructure. There is a large, modern homestead on an elevated site with wonderful views, three-bedroom cottage, excellent woolshed and covered yards, cattle yards and good sheds. The farm winters dairy stock, runs breeding ewes, fattens lambs and cattle and produces barley crops, hay and baleage. An easily-managed and well-balanced property that cannot be overlooked.

For Sale by Deadline Private Treaty

bayleys.co.nz/558455

(unless sold prior)

4pm, Wed 31 Oct 2018 Offers invited over $4m + GST (if any) Ben Turner 027 530 1400 ben.turner@bayleys.co.nz Mike Adamson 027 221 1909 WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz

PRICE REDUCED

NEW LISTING

Lounge and dining area

Aerial shot

Morningside 34 Tarewa Road

Aranga 4283 State Highway 12

Whangarei Central Holiday Park

Dairy and beef

A unique opportunity to buy this three acre accommodation business so close to the city centre. An easy walk and on a major arterial route. Very neat and tidy as first impressions count. There is room to develop further if you wish to this already successful and well received Holiday Park. If people are your passion, this is a tremendous and viable lifestyle. A full information pack and financials are available to genuinely interested parties. View the video at vimeo.com/273621382.

Asking Price $720,000 + GST (if any) View by appointment Penny Kempton 027 434 3803 penny.kempton@bayleys.co.nz Beth Tweedie 021 526 966 beth.tweedie@bayleys.co.nz MACKYS REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

The format of this viable business has changed, enquire today.

bayleys.co.nz/1051003

Fertile soils, income stream from beef and dairy and great infrastructure. This property has it all. Have the best of both worlds with this very attractive, well set up 324.4 hectare dairy and beef farm. This picturesque self-contained unit encompasses rich, fertile volcanic soils and is complemented by a high standard of infrastructure. The farm is divided into two designated areas, dairy being 173.6 hectares with the remaining beef area containing 150.7 hectares. Currently milking 300 cows with a three year average of 91,015kgMS. The gorgeous, history rich, well preserved and insulated 1912 Kauri villa has been tastefully and comprehensively renovated, it has five bedrooms and is set in established gardens.

Auction (unless sold prior) 1pm, Wed 7 Nov 2018 84 Walton St, Whangarei View 12.30-1pm Wed 10 Oct Catherine Stewart 027 356 5031 catherine.stewart@bayleys.co.nz MACKYS REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/1020227

MOTIVATED VENDOR

Boundary lines are indicative only

Otaua 356 Otaua Road

Te Kauwhata 95 Carter Road

High production - Low input dairy Located on the fertile flats of Otaua & Aka aka is this productive 48 hectare (more or less) dairy farm milking 160 Friesian cross cows is on target to produce 65,000kgMS this season. Farm buildings include; a well-positioned 16 ASHB platform, excellent shedding and implement storage space also well set up for comfortably rearing 60 calves. A recently drilled artesian bore supplies excellent water. The all flat contour make management of this property easy and appealing. The farm is well raced and in 29 paddocks. It is well fenced with four and six wires internally while the boundary is seven wire hot or eight wire. The home is a solid and comfortable 1980â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s four bedroom, brick home plus office, perfect for a family.

bayleys.co.nz/1970700

bayleys.co.nz

Auction (unless sold prior) 12pm, Tue 6 Nov 2018 292 Great South Road, Takanini View 1-2pm Thu 11 Oct or by appointment Shona Brown 027 417 7323 shona.brown@bayleys.co.nz Benjamin Jameson 021 568 800 ben.jameson@bayleys.co.nz BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LTD, PUKEKOHE, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Dairy, drystock or lifestyle! Excellent improvements, land, and not just one but three houses; your entire wish list will be met. This farm consists of 260.89ha (more or less) of flat to gentle rolling land, making for an easy switch or expansion to your existing business. Currently a large scale dairy unit, the Vendor will sell separately if required as a 17ha block, 118ha dairy unit and the back 125ha as drystock or a run-off. Each block comes with its own house. The milking shed is a 42 aside herringbone shed which is currently milking 630 cows and supplied Open Country Dairy 235,150kgMS for the 2016/17 season and 200,667kgMS for the 2017/18 season, supplying Fonterra up until 2016. Situated only 1km from Waerenga School and 15km to the bustling town of Te Kauwhata.

bayleys.co.nz/85898

Tender (unless sold prior) Closing 4pm, Thu 25 Oct 2018 96 Ulster Street, Hamilton View 1-2pm Wed 10 Oct & Wed 17 Oct Karl Davis 027 496 4633 karl.davis@bayleys.co.nz Lee Carter 027 696 5781 lee.carter@bayleys.co.nz MH REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED REAA 2008 SUCCESS REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED REAA 2008

Boundary lines are indicative only

Huntly 1 Jacobs Road

South Waikato 362 Paraonui Road

Attractive grazing farm

Good scale in a great area

Located in the Te Akau District this 191 hectare (more or less) farm has plenty to offer being only 27 kilometres from Huntly on a tarseal road, with clean pasture and pockets of native bush.

For Sale by Deadline Private Treaty

This north facing farm has a good three stand woolshed with covered yards, a good set of cattle yards and is sub-divided into 39 main paddocks. All paddocks have troughed water pumped from a dam to tanks and then gravity fed. The soils are mainly maeroa ash and approximately 30% of the farm is mowable. Up to 300 silage bales have been cut previously but is currently finishing lambs and running cattle. The Te Akau/Waingaro complex is only 12 km away and offers golf, tennis, polo, pony club, bowls and is the heart of this great community.

4pm, Tue 6 Nov 2018 96 Ulster Street, Hamilton View by appointment Russell Bovill 027 273 9025 russell.bovill@bayleys.co.nz

(unless sold prior)

SUCCESS REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

In the great farming district of Lichfield this 107Ha (more or less) dairy unit offers real possibilities for those contemplating quality farm ownership. With 97 effective ha of fertile South Waikato soils over a free draining pumice base, this property has desirable scale. Milking 300 cows through a tidy 22 ASHB and producing a four season average of 107,000kg/MS, with cows milked once a day after Christmas. There's easy access via well maintained races and bridges while the attractive Mangamingi Stream meanders through the property and the fencing is all to a high standard. Farm infrastructure provides great support and functionality while a comfortable three bedroom home with two living areas will suit your family needs. A great property for the farmer or the investor.

bayleys.co.nz/814926

bayleys.co.nz/814842

Waitakaruru 989 State Highway 25

Ohaupo 161 Ranby Road

Dairy on the 'golden mile' The farm has a nice asthethic, fundamentally square in shape with the entire 58ha (more or less) being flat in contour. The dairy is a practical 12 ASHB with production history circa 60,000kgMS and the recent three year average supplied to Fonterra being 36,800kgMS. An array of utility, calf and ancillary improvements support the dairy, whislt a soild three bedroom home with sleep out provides accommodation. With its location boarding the Firth of Thames the perfect work play balance is achievable with great fishing, popular holiday hotspots and the infamous Hauraki Rail Trail right on your backdoor step.

bayleys.co.nz/814916

Auction (unless sold prior) 11am, Thu 8 Nov 2018 96 Ulster Street, Hamilton View 1-2pm Tue 16 Oct, Tue 23 Oct & Tue 30 Oct or by appointment Karl Davis 027 496 4633 karl.davis@bayleys.co.nz Lee Carter 027 696 5781 lee.carter@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

96 hectare dairy in sought after location Added to the coveted address there is near flat and all effective contour, good production and tidy infrastructure. The farm is very well appointed with a 20ASHB shed, in-shed meal feed system, calf and implement sheds. The three bedroom brick home was completed in 2016. The average production is 103,308kgMS (2016-2018) and presently around 255 to 260 cows are being milked. Regional council consent is for 336 cows. The pastures reflect a regular fertiliser program and prudent management of the peaty loam. Farms in this desirable location are very tightly held, take action to secure yours now!

bayleys.co.nz/814758

Auction (unless sold prior) 11am, Thu 8 Nov 2018 96 Ulster Street, Hamilton View 1-2pm Wed 10 Oct Neville Jacques 021 774 190 neville.jacques@bayleys.co.nz Glenda O'Sullivan 027 222 8119 glenda.osullivan@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Auction (unless sold prior) 11am, Thu 1 Nov 2018 96 Ulster Street, Hamilton View 11am-12pm Tue 9 Oct Sharon Evans AREINZ 027 235 4771 sharon.evans@bayleys.co.nz Stuart Gudsell AREINZ 021 951 737 stuart.gudsell@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz

Taranaki 1508 Otaraoa Road, Tikorangi

Opunake 461 Ngariki Road

Self-contained dairy and grazing

Top dairy farm - option of 164.9ha or up to 233.8ha

Available is 232Ha in two titles with milking, grazing and finishing platforms that can be sold as a self-contained unit or separately. This is a great opportunity to secure a farm that benefits from a high standard of improvements and recent maintenance upgrades. These include the 2009 built home, 21 ASHB complete with cup removers, new in shed feed system, 5 bay implement/calf shed and silage bunker. Contour across the Dairy platform is mostly undulating to medium hill with the grazing area running from river flats suitable for finishing to steeper sidlings. The second title comes with hay sheds, woolshed, stock yards, upgraded water system and three bedroom cottage. Purchase a secure self-contained unit with good scale or individually.

Tender (unless sold prior) Closing 1pm, Wed 31 Oct 2018 15 Courtenay Street, New Plymouth Open Days: Wed 10 Oct 11-12pm Mark Monckton 021 724 833 mark.monckton@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Seldom do you find a predominantly flat farm with a centrally located cowshed that has all the 'bells and whistles' of this size and calibre in Taranaki. Milking the cows through a 54-bail rotary in only its fifth season will be a delight. Milk 430 as a 164.9ha block or up to 620 with the full 233.8ha, Protrac, cup removers, two million litres of effluent storage. Add the very good races which get the cows to the shed in 25 minutes or mostly less. A predominately flat 20.2ha grazing block with yards and large shed is also available.

Tender (unless sold prior) Closing 1pm, Tue 23 Oct 2018 15 Courtenay Street, New Plymouth Open Days: Thu 11 Oct, 1-2pm John Blundell 027 240 2827 john.blundell@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/522534

bayleys.co.nz/522771

NEW LISTING

Wanganui 386 Makirikiri Valley Road Deer, sheep, beef - 461ha 386 Makirikiri Valley Road is barely 15 minutes drive from Wanganui and on the market for the first time in almost 100 years. Made up of just over 461 hectares, with a complementary mix of flat, medium and steeper hill country. Essentially broken into two fairly even blocks, available as one or two units. Almost entirely deer fenced, this property is currently being run as a genuine sheep and beef breeding operation, but could be converted back to deer with only limited infrastructure change. Located approximately 4 km from the local primary school. This property poses a great opportunity as a stand-alone unit, or if sold as two blocks could be ideal first farms.

bayleys.co.nz/3000668

bayleys.co.nz

Ashburton 84 Forks Road 8

For Sale by Deadline Private Treaty (will not be sold prior)

2pm, Mon 12 Nov 2018 208 Victoria Avenue, Wanganui Phone for viewing times Knud Bukholt 027 222 6161 knud.bukholt@bayleys.co.nz BARTLEY REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Attractive dairy farm On offer is a 207.7930 hectare dairy farm in one title plus 17.1 hectares of Crown lease land which has formed part of an approximate 340 hectare milking platform converted in 2007. The total farm milked 1,100 cows in the 2017/18 season producing 484,000kgMS through a 54 bail rotary shed with Waikato plant and all modern in-shed technology. Supporting infrastructure on this 207.7930 hectare farm includes recently updated effluent ponds (60 days), excellent tracking, good calf rearing sheds, numerous sheds and modern homes. Irrigation water is gravity fed from the Ashburton River to a 300,000 cubic metre holding pond then pumped to the pivot and sprinklers allowing for a very efficient and low cost system.

bayleys.co.nz/558283

Deadline Sale (unless sold prior) 1pm, Fri 9 Nov 2018 Offers invited over $9,500,000 + GST (if any) View by appointment Jon McAuliffe 027 432 7769 jon.mcauliffe@bayleys.co.nz WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; October 8, 2018

This property is made up of two farms producing 240,000 kg MS a year from 700 cows.

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

The farms have a 30-aside dairy and a 16-aside unit.

Two into one does go TWO Northland dairy farms on the flat to rolling contour of Ruawai can be combined for one large-scale 318ha operation or bought separately. The neighbouring farms lie 11km from Ruawai township and include a 253ha dairy unit milking 500 cows with a three-year production average of 173,000kg milksolids plus a 65ha dairy unit milking 200 cows with a three-year production average of 67,000kg MS.

On the larger dairy farm 107 paddocks are laned to the 30-aside dairy with Alpha plant and a yard that holds up to 350 cows. A feed pad caters for 250 cows, a standoff pad another 200 cows, a wintering barn up to 150 cows and the cattle yards hold 100 cows. Two homes round off the farm and one of them has a sleepout and large four-bay shed. Up to 100 replacement heifers

are carried on this farm and it rears 450 calves that are a mixture of replacements and beefies. Through winter it carries 260 cows and 100 yearling heifers. In a typical year the farm will make 10ha of maize silage, 300 bales of grass silage, 50 large bales of hay and grow 20ha of turnips. Each year 15% of the farm is regrassed using the latest diploid and tetrapolid grass seed.

Next door, on the smaller dairy unit, cows are milked through a 16-aside herringbone dairy with Alpha plant and it has a yard for 200 cows. The property has a good range of infrastructure from the limestone feed pad/standoff area to a wintering barn and sheds. A four-bedroom home completes the farmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s amenities. Fifty replacement heifers are grazed on the smaller dairy

unit and it winters 100 cows. Maize silage is again made for supplements, typically about 2.5ha along with 100 bales of grass silage and 10ha of turnips. On this farm, 10% is regrassed each year. A deadline sale closes on November 8.

To view visit www.pggwre.co.nz/ DAG27809 or contact Ron Grbin 027 471 6388

NEW LISTING

Scargill 554 Waikari Valley Road

Greenpark 563 Hudsons Road

'Double Hill'

Farm for the future

'Double Hill' is a versatile 637ha grazing property with purchasing options available. From its picturesque and productive limestone valley and rolling, warm north-facing hill country - perfect for wintering, leading into extremely well-sheltered fertile flats, ensuring a wonderful balance for stock in both winter and summer. The property features a full complement of infrastructure including a three-bedroom home, cottage, very good woolshed, new centrally located cattle yards, sheepyards and ancillary buildings. In a great location, situated close to Waikari township, 'Double Hill' is an exceptionally attractive, versatile property, ideal for a mixed grazing or dairy support option.

bayleys.co.nz/558338

For Sale by Deadline Private Treaty (unless sold prior)

4pm, Thu 18 Oct 2018 3 Deans Ave, Chch View by appointment Ben Turner 027 530 1400 ben.turner@bayleys.co.nz Peter Foley 021 754 737 WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Arthursley Dairy Farm has undergone substantial capital expenditure in recent years, providing the perfect base for future farming, from both a productivity and environmental aspect. Approximately 93ha, this farm has had quality inputs in recent years, including a large covered barn to house 430 cows and two Enviro tanks, complementing the well-maintained 16-a-side HB dairy. Fully irrigated via two wells, this productive small farm has seen a solid re-grassing and fertiliser programme, has a full complement of farm sheds and a five-bedroom family home, providing the complete package. It has a three-year production average of 146,688kgMS. In a fantastic location, situated close to Lincoln and amenities and an easy commute to Christchurch.

bayleys.co.nz/558439

For Sale by Deadline Private Treaty (unless sold prior)

4pm, Thu 8 Nov 2018 Offers over $29/kgMS based on a three-year average of 146,688kgMS Ben Turner 027 530 1400 ben.turner@bayleys.co.nz Evan Marshall 027 221 0910 evan.marshall@bayleys.co.nz WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 8, 2018

At its peak this farm milks 585 cows on 195ha effective and produces 204,000kg MS.

Ready for new owner FOR more than half a century the owner of a 210ha Whakamaru dairy farm has been developing the property and now it’s ready for the next generation. At its peak the farm milks 585 cows on 185 effective hectares and has a three-year production average of 204,000kg milksolids, using a centrally-located 40-aside herringbone dairy with an in-shed feeding system. About 250 calves are raised each year as well.

Stan Sickler from Bayleys says the farm is ready for a new owner who will benefit from years of development in a great farming district and a close-knit community. Ten minutes away is Whakamaru, a village with cafes as well a rural services while Taupo is 45 minutes from the farm. “This region is proving to be a very desirable place to live and farm,” he says. “The fertility has been built up

over the previous years and there’s a reasonably well-spread rainfall of 1500 to 1700mm for grass growth.” About 135ha of the farm is flat to easy country with numerous trees planted as shade and shelter. Water is supplied from a bore with 40mm PVC trenched around the farm in a ring with 32mm to troughs. Each year the farm grows 15ha of crop that is made up of 13ha

About 135ha is flat to easy country.

of turnips and chicory for summer and 2ha of kale for winter. Bought-in feed amounts to about 720kg of palm kernel a cow to help through the season. “The vendor has farmed it for more than 50 years and he’s ready to sell.”

This region is proving to be a very desirable place to live and farm.

Stan Sickler Bayleys

See the farm at www.bayleys. co.nz/2650933 or contact Stan Sickler on 021 275 7826

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

Property Brokers Limited Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008

Maranoa

Irrigated Dairy plus Run Off

DEADLINE SALE

WEB ID WR63528 CENTRAL HAWKES BAY 256 Takapau Ormondville Road DEADLINE SALE closes Wednesday 7th November, 2018 at 4.00pm • 305 ha deer/finishing unit • 25km west of Waipukurau • All flat contour Pat Portas • Free draining soils Mobile 027 447 0612 • Water reticulated to all paddocks Office 06 928 0521 Home 06 855 8330 • Deer fenced into 60 paddocks patp@pb.co.nz • Main homestead plus second home • Large deer shed and selling complex Bevan Pickett • Presently breeding and velveting Mobile 027 220 2766 • Suited also to lamb or bull finishing Office 06 928 0520 • Faithfully farmed by the same family for 50 years. bevanp@pb.co.nz

DEADLINE SALE

pb.co.nz

WEB ID WR62530 CENTRAL HAWKES BAY 406 Tuki Tuki Road DEADLINE SALE closes Thursday 8th November, 2018 at 4.00pm • 19 km west of Waipukurau • 135 ha Dairy platform (120 ha irrigated) • 165 ha Run off Pat Portas • 375 Cows 174,300 kg/MS average last 5 years Mobile 027 447 0612 • 30 a/s shed with in shed feed system Office 06 928 0521 Home 06 855 8330 • Two homes, numerous farm buildings patp@pb.co.nz • Excellent fertiliser history • Purchasing options available: Bevan Pickett • 300 ha, platform and run off (The Lot) Mobile 027 220 2766 • 135 ha platform - great value at around $35k/ha Office 06 928 0520 • 165 ha run off bevanp@pb.co.nz

DEADLINE SALE

RURAL rural@pb.co.nz 0800 FOR LAND

Property Brokers Limited Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008

Large scale dairy

Atiamuri - First farm? Additional unit?

WEB ID MOR01967 TE HOE 107 Le Heron Road VIEW 11 & 18 & 25 Oct 11.30 - 1.00pm • 192 hectares - flat to rolling contour • Mix of clay and silt loam soils • Six titles • 54 Bail rotary cowshed • Four year average production of 182,000 kgMS • Covered feed pad • Effluent irrigation 32 hydrants • Excellent shedding • Four homes all in excellent condition

$8,700,000 + GST (IF ANY)

Peter Lissington

Mobile 027 430 8770 Office 07 280 5534 peterl@pb.co.nz

WEB ID TOR61974 ATIAMURI 2037 State Highway 30 132.7020 ha. Very well located only 25km to Rotorua and 12km from SH1. Milking 270 cows producing a 5 year average production of 105,000 kgMS or 388 kgMS per cow with herd wintered on farm, has milked 300 cows. Good 30 ASHB with new in shed feed system including 2 x 17 tonne meal silos. Attractive farm approximately 112 ha effective flat to easy contour milking platform. 17 ha sidling's planted in 1 and 2 year pines for future additional income. Good quality infrastructure, well raced, quality pastures. Excellent quality high volume spring water supply.

AUCTION VIEW 15 & 23 & 29 Oct 10.30 - 11.30am AUCTION 11.00am, Sat 10th Nov, 2018, (unless sold prior), South Waikato Sports & Events Centre, 25 Mossop Road, Tokoroa

Brett Ashworth

Mobile 021 0261 7488 bretta@pb.co.nz

Tirohanga - Atiamuri

Manawatu's finest soil - 111 ha

NEW LISTING

WEB ID TPR57272 ATIAMURI 76 Spencer Road 189 hectares of rolling volcanic ash country. Milks 300 plus cows through a 36 aside herringbone dairy shed. Herd and 65 replacement heifers wintered on farm. Two substantial houses. Plus a one bedroom cottage, suitable for homestays.

AUCTION VIEW 15 & 23 & 29 Oct 12.30 - 1.30pm AUCTION 11.00am, Sat 10th Nov, 2018, (unless sold prior), South Waikato Sports & Events Centre, 25 Mossop Road, Tokoroa

Located in Tirohanga District, approximately 33km North of Taupo. You will enjoy farming in the temperate climate. Paul O'Sullivan

Mobile 027 496 4417 Office 07 280 8502 paulo@pb.co.nz

pb.co.nz

5 3

WEB ID FR61329 BY NEGOTIATION OPIKI 1450A Rangiotu Road View By Appointment With arguably the best soils in the Manawatu, extensive drainage and excellent fertility, this unit produces an outstanding level of dry matter and milk solids annually. Improvements include a 36 ASHB shed, sundry buildings, central race, independent bore and 350 cow Blair Cottrill feed pad. In the past 5 years 109ha has been re-sown. Mobile 027 354 5419 The main three bedroom homestead is built in Office 06 323 1538 established grounds, whilst the second dwelling is a four blair@pb.co.nz bedroom weatherboard home. With Vendor Stuart Sutherland expectations below the current RV of $5,500,000 this Mobile 027 452 1155 property will offer you scale, quality and location rarely Office 06 323 5544 seen at this level. Home 06 323 7193 stuarts@pb.co.nz

+ GST (IF ANY)

7 4

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; October 8, 2018

Accelerating success.

Reach more people - better results faster.

colliers.co.nz

Accelerating success.

Reach more people - better results faster.

colliers.co.nz

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; October 8, 2018

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Dairy and cropping AN EARLY 1900s kauri villa with all its original charm is the crowning glory of a 116ha productive dairy farm with five titles near Dargaville. Spacious rooms with high ceilings open out to verandahs and a deck to enjoy views across the fertile farmland that has the ability to grow kumara and is suitable for other forms of horticulture. To date it has been part of a farming portfolio with cows being milked between July and February before returning to the main dairy farm next door. During that time it milked 250 mainly younger cows that went to once a day after Christmas and produced 69,867kg milksolids last year. The farm also grew 18ha of maize and 12ha of chicory on the flat contour and new grass paddocks are grazed by young stock. The owner has been improving the races and fences to create good access to the 80 paddocks and that has enhanced the farm, which already has a 30-aside herringbone dairy in tidy order, a feedpad, an implement shed and an old wintering barn used for calf rearing. Effluent is held in four ponds with

another holding pond by the feed pad. It is discharged onto paddocks. The character kauri villa with its outdoor pizza oven is one of two homes on the property, with a three-bedroom Keith Hay home built in 2003. This 116ha dairy unit is divided into 80 paddocks.

Location is a big factor for the farm as it is not only close to town but close to abundant fishing in the Kaipara Harbour.

Location is a big factor for the farm as it is not only close to town but close to abundant fishing in the Kaipara Harbour. Five titles on the farm include parcels of 21.4ha, 40ha, 29.9ha, 9.3ha and 15.9ha. Tenders for the property close on November 16.

View at www.pggwre.co.nz DAG28925 or contact Megan Browning on 027 668 8468

The 250 mainly younger cows produce nearly 70,000kg MS.

TU RNING VALUATION COMPLEXI T Y I N TO

OPPORTUNITY Our Rural & Agribusiness clients expect the full resources of Colliers International behind their projects, so to accelerate their success they work with one property company with every property expert.

Unlock a world of expertise by taking one small step talk to one of our experts today.

colliers.co.nz/ruralvaluation

Accelerating success.

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 8, 2018

DAIRY FARM

TENDER

MAHOENUI, 2581 SHWY 3, Te Kuiti

Large scale self-contained dairy on the King Country boundary Waikato/Taranaki dairy farmers take note, motivation to sell is high and the director’s instructions are clear we want this farm sold. Located in a warm north facing valley Papakauri Dairies offers a unique opportunity to purchase a large semi self-contained farming operation in an area well known for its reliable rainfall, exceptional grass growth and ability to produce quality livestock.

•

35 hectares planted in redwoods/pines which will resume collecting carbon credits from 2019

•

Modern 50 Bail Rotary cowshed, and plenty of support buildings.

•

Secure natural bush/river boundaries

•

Three homes

•

388 hectares freehold and 77 hectares leasehold

•

Five year average production 193,000kg/ms off a 202 hectare dairy platform

•

Additional 30 hectares utilised to grow maize and 63 hectares utilised for young stock

This is an outstanding opportunity to grow your business at an affordable level. The fact that you can manage your total farming operation from milking cows, rearing replacements as well as growing your own supplements must be of consideration for those looking to safeguard the biosecurity of their future farming operation. Come see for yourself the huge potential this farm has on offer.

TENDER closes 9th November 2018 View: Thursday 11th, 18th & 25th October from 11:00am sharp www.harcourts.co.nz/OH7953

Kerry Harty P 07 873 8700 M 027 294 6215 E kjharty@harcourts.co.nz

Otorohanga Blue Ribbon Realty Ltd mreinz Licensed Agent REAA 2008

DAIRY FARM

TE AWAMUTU, 440 Otorohanga Road

Entry level Dairy with Location and Contour Handy to both Te Awamutu and Otorohanga townships, this very tidy dairy unit is a MUST VIEW this spring for those looking for a smaller, well contoured farm which has seen a considerable investment in recent years towards compliance and pasture renovation. • Total land area 57.3742 hectares (141 acres)

$2,600,000 + GST (if any) • Well maintained 12 aside herringbone cowshed with in-shed feed system

View: Wednesdays 10th, 17th & 24th October from 11:00am sharp www.harcourts.co.nz/OH7922

• Usual support buildings in good condition and compliant effluent pond • Tidy three bedroom weatherboard home Motivated vendors are listening to what the market indicates their property to be worth are genuinely on the market to SELL.

• Milking 155 cows on average

Phone Kerry today to find out more or come to our next open

• Average production 53,000 kg/ms

day to see for yourself.

Kerry Harty P 07 873 8700 M 027 294 6215 E kjharty@harcourts.co.nz

Otorohanga Blue Ribbon Realty Ltd mreinz Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 8, 2018

The land is in two titles of 132ha and 99ha on river flats with medium-hill country and steeper sidlings.

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

The farm is a fully self-contained dairy unit that carries beef cattle, empty dairy cows and young stock in addition to the 280 milking cows.

Fully self-contained dairy A SELF-CONTAINED dairy farm in a good location can be hard to find in Taranaki so a 232ha farm at Tikorangi is a rare opportunity to keep all the stock at home and it comes with a relatively new dairy and home. The farm has two titles of 132ha and 99ha that flow over river flats to medium-hill country with steeper sidlings 25 minutes north of New Plymouth. The main home was built in 2009 on an elevated site where it captures stunning views

encompassing the Waitara River, Mt Taranaki and surrounding farmland. It can be sold in its separate titles or in its entirety, which Mark Monckton from Bayleys says provides multiple options for milking, grazing and finishing. To date it has been milking 280 cows and produced 90,616kg millksolids last season, with production already 20% ahead this season. As well as the milking herd, the farm has been carrying beef cattle,

empty dairy cows and dairy young stock. “It’s a self-contained unit with a modern shed built in 2012 and house in 2009 so all the infrastructure is reasonably new. “There’s not too many properties in Taranaki that are well located and self contained and this offers both.” The 21-aside herringbone dairy has been built to a high standard complete with automatic cup removers and an in-shed feed system with a mineral dispenser

that enables easier management. An 18t silo sits beside the dairy for the in-shed feed system while effluent from the dairy is collected in a lined pond that is connected to pod irrigation on paddocks. Additional improvements on the dairy platform block include a five-bay implement/calf shed, hay shed and silage bunkers. That title has 4.99ha planted in pine trees in 2012 and 5.6ha planted in a mix of pine and redwood trees in 2014 under a scheme administered by

Taranaki Regional Council. A good selection of farm buildings comes with the second title, such as hay sheds and wool shed, with an upgraded water system benefiting the property and a three-bedroom cottage offering accommodation. Tenders for the property close on October 31.

View the farm at www.bayleys. co.nz/522771 or contact Mark Monckton on 021 724 833.

Otago, Canterbury, Westland and Southland regions

COASTAL

Dairy Farming Investment Opportunity

MAROKOPA, 1445 Marokopa Road

Exclusive Coastal Residence

The photos speak for themselves, this is not your average holiday home, and the replacement value of this attractive home far exceeds the current asking price. This unique home offers the most amazing views of all aspects of this rugged yet scenic west coast location ... taking in magnificent ocean views, the river mouth as well as the surrounding rural country side. Open plan living with stacking doors and an abundance of outdoor entertaining areas, four double bedrooms, two beautifully tiled bathrooms, this home lends itself to home hosting, or the upstairs area could be utilised as a private, B&B making good use of the kitchenette attached to the master suite. Well set up for business or pleasure, with good shedding and storage areas, internet and mobile phone coverage. Our vendors are on the move and will seriously consider all reasonable offers. Call Kerry or Karen today to find out more.

$875,000 View: By appointment www.harcourts.co.nz/OH7939

Kerry Harty P 07 873 8700 M 027 294 6215 E kjharty@harcourts.co.nz Karen Lennox P 07 873 8700 M 027 559 4468 E kjharty@harcourts.co.nz

Otorohanga Blue Ribbon Realty Ltd mreinz Licensed Agent REAA 2008

This is an opportunity to invest in one of the largest privately owned dairy operations in New Zealand. The offer comprises 59 dairy farms and 15 support farms across the South Island, producing approximately 15 million kilograms of milk solids from over 50,000 milking cows. The portfolio of farmland owned by the group and which a significant minority interest investment is available for acquisition comprises dairy farms plus grazing blocks:

Contact PwC Advisory Services for further details. The vendor is seeking expressions of interest from potential purchasers for a significant minority interest by 18 October 2018.

• ~1,500 effective ha in Otago

E: dairyopportunity@nz.pwc.com T: 09 355 8203

• ~9,200 effective ha in Canterbury • ~1,690 effective ha in Westland • ~1,850 effective ha in Southland

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The farm carries 1100 young stock year-round and winters more than 1000 dairy cows.

THE DESTINATION FOR RURAL REAL ESTATE Land is the biggest asset to any farming business so it pays to stay up to date with the market.

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FARMERS WEEKLY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; October 8, 2018

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 8, 2018

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Multi-use and ready to go The baseline nitrogen loss for the entire farm between 2009 and 2013 was 78kgN/ha a year. Before being leased for dairy support the farm was a sheep and beef breeding property and part of it was used for deer breeding and finishing. The mix of farm operations has resulted in a comprehensive set of infrastructure that includes hay or implement sheds, a wool shed with covered yards, deer shed and yards, two sets of cattle yards and even an aircraft hangar and workshop.

It’s a multipurpose property which is well set up so you can just get on and farm it. Peter Crean PGG Wrightson Real Estate

This farm has extensive shelter belts and is well irrigated.

A four-bedroom homestead has been recently renovated and has a generous living and kitchen area plus a large office. The surrounding grounds have been extensively planted with natives over the years to create a sheltered setting for the home, its swimming pool and barbecue area. “It’s a multi-purpose property which is well set up so you can just get on and farm it,” Crean says. “You can continue using it for dairy support or, the way cattle prices are, it would be a good finishing unit.” A deadline private treaty closes on November 1.

View Eagle Hill at www. pggwre.co.nz CHR28939 or contact Peter Crean on 027 434 4002 or Sam Davidson on 027 488 8269

The grounds of the four-bedroom homestead have been extensively planted.

QUALITY DAIRY FARM

SPECTACULAR VIEWS

OUTSTANDING SMALLER FARM

• Your opportunity to own this quality dairy farm in full production. • Situated in Northern Horowhenua and very well laid out with central laneways, rotary dairy and 600 cow feed pad. • 170 hectares in three titles with a great mix of Kairanga silt loam and Pukepuke sandy loam soils. • There are three good family homes in their own sections. • Our vendors are looking to retire and have priced this property to sell at $7.5 mil land and buildings. • Call Les on 0274 420 582 to inspect.

• Situated in Hiwinui township is this 1.67ha lifestyle property. • Featuring a generous 461m2 four bedroom family home with office, two modern kitchens & open plan living this home is a real beauty. • Open plan living areas provide a comfortable spot to enjoy the rural outlook, large windows in most bedrooms provide stunning views. • Four acres of land on an easy-care section makes this perfect for ponies or other animals to graze. RV $880,000. • For sale by Tender closing 2pm on the 26th October (if not sold prior). • Call Tina 0274 420 588 or Joanna 027 842 3521.

• Situated on Hansens Line, Newbury is this 42.3ha (STFS) property. • Very well farmed with soils that would grow anything. • Centrally located 20 aside herringbone dairy (currently not in use) with adjacent feed pad and silage bunkers. • Very good well water supplied via a 50mm main line to stock troughs. • Currently running as a dairy run off and consented for 300 cows. • With outstanding soils, great location this is an exceptional place to purchase your first farm. • Call Les on 0274 420 582 to inspect.

Sallan Realty

Google ‘Sallan Realty’ Your Farm Sales Specialist

CALL 0800FARMTEAM Licensed Agent REAA 2008

LK0094544©

RELIABLE, low-cost irrigation provides good options for a 574ha Canterbury Plains farm that has been well set up for its dairy support operation. Eagle Hill lies on the north bank of the Waimakariri River about 16km from Oxford and for the past 11 years has carried up to 1100 young stock year-round and more than 1000 dairy cows through winter on its freedraining soils. Irrigation covers about 323ha of the property, with an efficient system using centre pivots irrigating 171.5ha then K-Line and Roto Rainer on 151ha, which is part deer fenced. Peter Crean and Sam Davidson from PGG Wrightson Real Estate say its sheer scale is a rarity, especially in such a good location and with good, longterm consents to irrigate. A large portion of the farm is irrigated with surface water from the Waimakariri River and transferred to settling ponds. Stock water is also supplied from the river and pumped to tanks at the top of the property before being gravity-fed to troughs. Contour over Eagle Hill is relatively flat except for several terraces and its dairy support operation has resulted in good paddock subdivision with tracks and lanes connecting them. Modern, permanent pasture species cover the property and crops, including kale, fodder beet and swedes for wintering stock have been a feature of the farming policy. A feature of the property is the extensive, wellestablished and trimmed shelter belts that are aesthetically pleasing as well as providing stunning shelter. The property falls into two nutrient allocation zones, with about 44ha in the Ashley-Waimakariri red zone and 530ha in the Waimakariri green zone.

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Get away from it all mobile phone coverage take care of the rest of its needs. Kerry Harty from Harcourts says Marokopa is a beach community like they used to be, where bach owners know everyone and it’s safe for family to wander during their holidays. “It’s a holiday getaway for people who don’t like fast cars and traffic congestion – anybody who wants to get away from it all.” Events are held in the community hall or at the sports grounds and the estuary is a safe swimming for kids and adults. The Marokopa River flows into the sea by the village and it’s a popular spot for whitebaiters who Harty says generally do quite well. Horse riders cross the river and ride up the coast while nearby Whareorino Forest is spectacular virgin bush with tracks to explore and huts for staying overnight.

This house has plenty of everything including space.

View at www.harcourts.co.nz/ OH7939 or contact Kerry Harty on 027 294 6245 or Karen Lennox on 027 559 4468

The decks offer view over Marokopa to the river mouth and beach.

N EW

LIS TI N G

MARAKOPA is a hidden gem on Waikato’s coast, a place where the holiday community gets together in the local hall, where the family can catch a feed of whitebait and kids can explore the sandy estuary. It’s a laid back hideaway where locals head to escape traffic congestion and hectic schedules. Here they catch fish, swim and ride horses along the long sandy sweeps of wide west coast beaches. On its grand elevated site overlooking the tiny village of Marokopa to the river mouth and beach is a 345 square metres house that is not an average holiday home. It is well set up for business or pleasure. Magnificent ocean views with the estuary in the foreground set the scene for the home which has a replacement value that exceeds its asking price of $875,000. Open-plan living with stacking doors and an abundance of outdoor entertaining areas combined with four bedrooms and two bathrooms lends itself to home hosting possibilities. Good sheds and internet and

SCALE SAND COUNTRY RUN-OFF 526 Lake Road, Himatangi, Manawatu Essentially flat, approx. 225 hectares of pastoral land is indispersed with low ridges planted in pines. Predominately Hokio sands, the strength of this country is its relative warmth and dryness in the winter months. Well subdivided and centrally raced from upgraded cattle yards, with a bore supplying water. The dwelling has been recently internally redecorated. Settlement is set for 1/2/19 with 200t DM grass silage on hand, enabling the purchaser to set up well for their first winter. In four titles, this opportunity only arises due to a change in plans by the long term non-farming owners.

257 hectares Tender nzr.nz/RX1450816 Tender Closes 11am, Tue 13 Nov 2018 NZR, 20 Kimbolton Road, Feilding Peter Barnett AREINZ 027 482 6835 | peter@nzr.nz NZR Limited | Licensed REAA 2008

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 8, 2018

LIS TI N G N EW

WAIKAHA - PRODUCTIVE, ATTRACTIVE AND ALL SET UP 901 Ongarue Waimiha Road, Taumarunui A superbly presented 552-hectare (508 effective) property situated in the heart of the King Country, 30 kilometres north of Taumarunui, with all the hard work done. The excellent balance of contour, consisting of approximately 240 hectares of cultivatable land with the balance rolling medium hill with steeper sidling, makes this a highly desirable property, well suited to a variety of farming practices, in particular a sizeable dairy support unit or highly productive breed/fattening unit. Waikaha is well regarded for its ability to produce excellent stock production figures over all classes of stock. Attributing factors to this success are the excellent historic fertiliser history, abundant natural water supply with its gravity fed reticulation scheme providing trough water to the majority of the farm. The property is aptly named "Pukewaikaha" which translates to hill of strong water. Waikaha is located within the Horizons Region and outside the Waikato catchment. Quality infrastructure including two homes; the main home being a comfortable four-bedroom home with open plan living areas with recent renovation, the second home is a tidy threebedroom brick home. Farm improvements include an excellent cattle yards, four stand woolshed/covered yard with all-weather load out. TENDERS CLOSE: 4.00pm, Thursday 22nd November 2018 at NZR Central Limited, 1 Goldfinch St, Ohakune. OPEN DAYS: 15th & 22nd October from 11.00am.

552 hectares TENDER www.nzr.nz/RX1670703 Jamie Proude 027 448 5162 jamie@nzr.nz Jules Brand 027 515 5581 juliane@nzr.nz NZR Central Limited | Licensed REAA 2008

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FARMERS WEEKLY – October 8, 2018

This 233ha farm milks 620 cows producing 260,392kg MS and 140 bales of silage.

It’s just like a conversion A DAIRY built five years ago with all the bells and whistles in the middle of a 233ha Taranaki farm makes it akin to a conversion for ease of management. Three dairy farms at Rahotu in coastal Taranaki have been amalgamated over time to create a large-scale milking platform spreading over predominantly flat land to milk up to 620 cows. John Blundell from Bayleys says two underpasses, reconfigured lanes and the central dairy ensure the maximum walk for the cows is only 25 minutes. “It’s the closest thing you get to

It’s the closest thing you get to a South Island conversion with everything bang in the middle of the farm. John Blundell Bayleys a South Island conversion with everything bang in the middle of the farm.

As a result of mergers this dairy unit has four houses.

“It’s like a new conversion which you seldom see in Taranaki.” The amalgamation of three farms means there are several options available for sale, beginning with the entire 233ha property or buying 213ha, 185ha or 164ha. Plus there is the option of buying 20ha with sheds and yards and/or 48ha with a modern home as grazing blocks. The 54-bail rotary dairy has been well set up with Protrack, automatic cup removers and an in-shed feed system and is

compliant with the new chilling regulations. A Presco Group in-ground concrete tank can store two million litres of effluent which is then pumped via two travelling irrigators onto 40ha of land. Support buildings are numerous from the three original farms, giving it five hay barns, a large lockable implement shed, ample calf-rearing sheds and a four-bay shed with roller doors. Cows are wintered on the farm and begin calving from July 27. In the past four seasons production has averaged

260,392kg milksolids and the farm also produces about 140 bales of size 12 silage from surplus. Four homes are another benefit from amalgamating three farms and include a four-bedroom plus office stucco home with all of the four houses in very good condition. Tenders for the farm close on October 23.

View AT www.bayleys.co.nz/522534 or contact John Blundell on 027 240 2827

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FARMERS WEEKLY – October 8, 2018

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Farm recently done up A 257 hectare property close to the coast just north of Himatangi has the flat, lighter sand that is ideal for wintering cattle. The farm has been leased out for many years as a dairy support property and now the longstanding owners have decided to sell. Peter Barnett from NZR says it has been well farmed by the lessees and is presented in good condition with key farming assets as well as fertility well maintained. About 225ha is effective grazing land subdivided by mainly two-wire electric fences with most of the paddocks accessing lanes back to the central cattle yards. Recent development work on the yards has created a highly functional facility while new boundary fences have been completed to lift the farm’s fences to a good standard. Water to those paddocks is sourced from a bore then reticulated to troughs. Another 32ha is planted in young pine trees. A large home has been recently redecorated inside and is in a structurally sound condition with spacious living areas and Barnett says it has potential to be brought back to its former condition. Tenders for the property close on November 13 and at settlement on February 1 it will have 200t of grass silage on hand so a new owner has time to set the property up for the next winter.

Contact Peter Barnett on 027 482 6835

This farm is on flat sandy soil ideal for wintering cattle.

T RA NSF O RM I N G R E A L E S TAT E INTO R E A L A DVA NTAGE FOR SALE PAEKAKARIKI HILL FOREST PAEKAKARIKI HILL ROAD, WELLINGTON

SECOND ROTATION FOREST WITH SUBDIVISION POTENTIAL With second rotation crop and forestry infrastructure in place, the Paekakariki Hill Forest is offered for sale as an easy to manage forestry investment underpinned by a fantastic location and strong fundamentals. Bordered by the Transmission Gully upgrade and boasting with spectacular elevated views of the Porirua Harbour, Mana Island and Battle Hill Station, Paekakariki Hill has favourable ‘rural’ zoning allowing for further residential intensification. Priced to sell, this opportunity will not last long. + + + + + +

162.4 hectares* freehold land 37km* to CentrePort 40ha 2015 and 80ha 2018 establishment Spectacular elevated views Subdivision potential Call today for further information

FOR SALE BY ASKING PRICE $990,000 + GST (if any)

JEREMY KEATING 021 461 210

*Approximately

www.cbre.co.nz/216261Q38 CBRE (Agency) Limited, Licensed Real Estate Agent (REAA 2008)

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This 83.5ha dairy unit is divided into 40 paddocks.

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2480REHP

Contact Shirley Howard phone 06 323 0760, email shirley.howard@globalhq.co.nz

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FARMERS WEEKLY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; October 8, 2018

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FARMERS WEEKLY – October 8, 2018

The house, barn and milking shed are all close.

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

The farm features a substantial English-style barn complex.

Milk,truffles and English barn FOR more than a quarter of a century the owners of an 83.5ha dairy farm near Matamata have been planting specimen trees, woodlots and even truffles to produce a stunning property to own and enjoy. A substantial English-style barn complex built with board and batten, tile roofing, copper spouting and river-stone features adds to the property’s appeal and caters for numerous activities. The complex has a one-bedroom accommodation unit plus a large studio, two workshops and two calf sheds. The possibilities are huge and that’s before you get to the 73 effective hectares

that milk 200 cows for a best production of 63,000kg MS, rear 50 calves then winter the cows. Cows are milked through a 18-aside herringbone dairy with Waikato milking plant which has an LIC drafting system and an automatic yard washer that reduces water use. Water from the plate cooler is recycled to wash down the tank. The fully-lined effluent pond was built four years ago and the main water supply is sourced from a farm bore that is two years old. About 40% of the farm is flat and the

balance mixed contour with the entire farm well raced and fenced into 40 paddocks with strong pastures. Soil health is achieved by a low stocking rate and good land management practices plus good nutrient and technical advice. The end result of years of planting trees and protecting the environment is an extensive array of mature trees teeming with native birdlife. Native fish, koura and freshwater mussels can be found in the streams and there’s the bonus of glow worms under the banks. One woodlot has half an acre of truffles that has now been established for 19 years.

The property has won a number of farm environment awards in the recent past. Set in mature grounds is the threebedroom brick home plus sleepout with a covered barbecue and entertaining area. The Kaimai Ranges are just behind the farm, which provides a heavier rainfall and all this is just 15 minutes from Matamata. The property will be auctioned on November 1.

View at www.colliers.co.nz/209709 or contact Alan Duncan on 027 478 6393

Deadline for Offers

An automatic yard washer reduces water use.

PRICE

Deadline for Offers Fri 9 Nov - 2.00pm

CONTACT

Andy Scott - 027 448 4047 andy@patrickandscott.co.nz Gary Patrick - 027 450 4290 gary@patrickandscott.co.nz Masterton - 06 378 2500 43 Chapel St, Masterton housepoint.co.nz/MA2364

CONTACT OFFICE ADDRESS WEBSITE

14049 Route 52, Eketahuna Seldom Available, Home and Acreage

We offer for sale this rare opportunity to purchase this approx 70ha property in the renown farming district of Alfredton. Approx 80kn to Palmerston orth & 60km to Masterton. The 70ha is north facing with approx 3ha of River flat & the balance medium to steep contour. The 4 bedroom home is sited on an elevated section with tar sealed driveway, 3 car garaging and 2 living areas, we consider this home to be superior in both build and outlook. For a full information memorandum please contact the agents. Deadline Sale set for 9th November 2018. Offers are expected to be in excess of $800,000

About 40% of the farm is flat and the rest is mixed contour.

ANDY SCOTT

GARY PATRICK

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FARMERS WEEKLY – October 8, 2018

Farm has its own brand

This Kinloch farm comes with tradable nitrogen credits that can be sold.

business venture, sell the tradable PREMIUM Taupo Beef is nitrogen credits and maybe produced on the rolling country consider future development. of a 175ha Kinloch property The property has been that has the location, views developed to a high standard and aesthetic appeal for future since the vendor bought it in development or tourism 2000. opportunities. Since then a four-bedroom It also has tradable nitrogen home with two living areas has credits that could be sold. been built and good support Kinloch View Farm lies just buildings include a three14km from Taupo with expansive bay workshop and four-bay lake and mountain views implement shed. providing a backdrop to pasture, Te Pari cattle yards were built in bush and exotic plantings. 2015 at the centre of the farm on On the farming side the a concrete pad with a washdown Taupo beef brand is served in hose, providing a second set of restaurants around New Zealand yards and most of the farm has and overseas, which provides a been regrassed three times to premium on the meat produced achieve the best beef. on the property. Between 10% and 15% of the Each year about 420 cattle have been wintered on the 123 effective farm is regrassed annually with much of it following winter crops hectares, including about 90 such as fodder beet and kale. dairy heifers as well as the R1 and In general the pastures are R2 beef cattle, with extra cattle a mix of rye and clovers with bought as grass growth allows. plantain and this past year the Stan Sickler from Bayleys new Seed Force cocksfoot cultivar says the farm has numerous was added. opportunities because of its Adding to the aesthetics is 41ha proximity to Taupo and the lake of fenced native bush while 10ha with agri tourism just one of the of exotics have been pruned and choices. will provide future income. “Good-sized properties this The property will be auctioned close to town are quite rare and on October 19. the population growth of Kinloch and Taupo is booming.” It gives new owners a choice MORE: to farm the property with its Viewed the farm at www.bayleys. 2914 Total Allowable Nitrogen co.nz/2651162 and or call Stan Discharge credits or create a new Sickler on 021 275 7826

WHAKATANE DAIRY FARM - 155 HA 70 Moody Road, Whakatane Rangitaiki Plains, Moody Rd. Farm held in four titles, total land area, 155.1956 Hectare. Combined with two neighbouring leases, 8 Ha and 7 Ha respectively, to create a 155 Ha milking platform. Land 90% flat, 10% rolling. Well fenced, pumice races maintained using on farm quarry. An extensive irrigation system with three pivot irrigators and sprinkler network for summer safe production. Three water supplies to the property including artesian bore. Currently operated by a 50/50 sharemilker, with management input from Farm Consultant and Trustees on behalf of Family Trusts. Approx. 570 F/Fx cows calved, average production of 200,000 kg ms. through a 40 aside Herringbone Dairy. Accommodation includes three good homes, self contained cabin and an excellent range of farm buildings. The farm as a whole is very well maintained and offered for sale in excellent order. Detailed Farm Information Memorandum available from the Agents or can be downloaded from the Professionals Website. For sale as Land, buildings and farm chattels. Price will be PLUS GST (if any). For Sale by TENDER closing 12.00 p.m. Wednesday 31 October 2018, at the Office of: The Professionals Whakatane Ltd, 38 Landing Road, Whakatane. NOTE: Will NOT be sold prior. Viewing by appointment with the agents or by attending an advertised open day. Bio-Security protocols will be followed for on farm visits.

OPEN DAYS

WED 10TH OCT 11AM-1PM WED 17TH OCT 11AM-1PM

Maurice Butler @RuralRealEstateWhakatane 0274 514 395 07 307 0165 maurice@professionalswhakatane.co.nz

VIEW ONLINE professionalswhakatane.co.nz PWK01270

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 8, 2018

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

This farm produces Taupo Beef but with its location and views had potential for development or tourism.

The farm runs 420 winter cattle along with 90 dairy heifers and R1 and R2 beef cattle.

Between 10% and 15% of the farm is regrassed annually.

WWW.SOUTHERNWIDE.CO.NZ MCLEODS ROAD

DEADLINE TREATY

New Zealand’s leading rural real estate company NEW LISTING

AWAMOKO DAIRY SUPPORT/BEEF PROPERTY

Web Ref SWOR11068

Area 220.5246ha Located - adjacent to Waitaki Plains and Enfield Dairying districts. Contour - Flat tops to rolling hills to steeper gullies Well fenced into 22 paddocks with electrics around property * Very good fertiliser history on productive soils. * Large cattleyards plus 3 bay implement shed. For Sale by Deadline Private Treaty closing 1st November 2018 1pm at Southern Wide Real Estate Oamaru. (Prior Offers Considered) Southern Wide Real Estate 225 Thames Street, Oamaru p 03 434 7422 e oamaru@southernwide.co.nz

Barry Meikle M: 027 436 5131 E: barrym@southernwide.co.nz

www.southernwide.co.nz

• Versatile cost effective partially irrigated 244ha farm with surplus shares to further develop the property • Quality breeding and fattening unit, intensive stock finishing or dairy support • High standard of infrastructure including cattle and sheep handling facilities and upgraded stock water system • Fertile soils that produce excellent quantities of dry matter pggwre.co.nz/TIM28989

WWW.SOUTHERNWIDE.CO.NZ DEADLINE TREATY

DEADLINE PRIVATE TREATY Plus GST (if any) Closes 1.00pm, 13 November

Simon Richards M 027 457 0990

NEW LISTING

1357 GEORGETOWN-PUKEURI RD OAMARU

Te Moana Deer - 91.8ha (Four Titles)

GLENKERRY - AWAMOKO DAIRY FARM

For Sale by Deadline Private Treaty closing 1st November 2018 1pm at Southern Wide Real Estate Oamaru. (Prior Offers Considered) Southern Wide Real Estate

LK0094722©

Web Ref SWOR11065

* 193.7986ha total * 120ha on dairy platform * Private irrigation scheme 23% shareholding * 118 Spray shares - Lower Waitaki Irrigation * 20 A/S H/B Dairy Shed * Milking 380 cows this season * 50/50 milking sharemilker in place until 1st June 2020 * 2 quality family homes * Low cost operation Option to purchase an adjacent 220.5ha support property.

Barry Meikle M: 027 436 5131 E: barrym@southernwide.co.nz

Waimate

An outstanding deer breeding and finishing unit. This spectacular property is well fenced, subdivided into 10 main paddocks with excellent tracking and lane systems, leading to a substantial deer complex. This aesthetically pleasing property lies in the higher rainfall belt, has five units of water and shows excellent fertility. Seldom do properties with this potential and location come to the market. pggwre.co.nz/GER28402

Geraldine DEADLINE PRIVATE TREATY Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 4.00pm Thursday, 8 November

Richard Scott M 021 352 701

225 Thames Street, Oamaru

p 03 434 7422 e

oamaru@southernwide.co.nz w www.southernwide.co.nz

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

pggwre.co.nz

New Zealand’s leading rural real estate company RURAL

LIFESTYLE

RESIDENTIAL

TENDER

Dairy or Horticulture - Opportunity here • 116 hectares (all flat contour) • Very fertile and productive • 30 ASHB - Alpha plant • Feed pad, wintering barns • Three bay Implement shed • Two three bedroom homes A great opportunity here to purchase this very productive land either for dairy or horticulture use. With the vendors downsizing their farming portfolio the opportunity is here to purchase this very fertile farm. pggwre.co.nz/DAG28925

Te Kopuru TENDER Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold By Private Treaty) Closes 2.00pm, Friday, 16 November

Megan Browning B 09 439 3344 | M 027 668 8468 mbrowning@pggwrightson.co.nz

OPEN DAY

Resort Style Luxury at Home 56E Plummers Point Road Incredible view over the inner harbour to the Mount. Stunning fully enclosed and insulated heated pool with a fully retractable roof, changing room and shower area. Glass fencing. A year round tropical paradise with spa hotel type pool side luxury. This impressive home is fully double glazed and has four bedrooms and three bathrooms. The large separate lounge, the open plan living room and the master suite all open up to a generous paved and sheltered entertainment area. Around 1ha in size subject to final survey, with a fully landscaped and tarsealed driveway and electronic security gates. A short walk to Omokoroa No1 School, The Black Sheep Bar and cafe, superette and takeaways. such a superb address you will be very proud to own. Watch the video and contact the agent today! 3

pggwre.co.nz/TAR29019

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

Tauranga AUCTION (Unless Sold Prior) 10.00am, Sat, 20 October PGG Wrightson Real Estate, Cnr Cameron Rd & Third Ave VIEW 12.00-12.45pm, Wed, 10 Oct 12.00-12.45pm, Sun, 14 Oct Andrew Fowler B 07 571 5797 | M 027 275 2244 afowler@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz

New Zealand’s leading rural real estate company RURAL

LIFESTYLE

RESIDENTIAL

OPEN DAY

Dairy with Diversity 218 Awahou Road and 298a Reid Road • High producing mixed farming operation of dairy and dairy beef • 260ha total area, milking 500 dairy cows, producing 200,000kgMS • 90% flat to easy-medium contour, rich loam soils, temperate climate • Good standard of improvements complement all farm operations • 70ha deer fenced with dark room and deer yards, two stand woolshed, covered yards • Ready to mill Pinus Radiata, 16.5ha, pruned and lifted • Owned by the same conscientious family for 122 years, current owners now wish to retire pggwre.co.nz/WHK29012

Whakatane TENDER Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold By Private Treaty) Closes 4.00pm, Thursday 1 November VIEW 11.00-1.00pm, Thursday 11 & 18 October

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

TENDER

First Farm with Pay Back 294 Tirohanga Road • Total area: 118 hectares, milking platform of 69ha • 24 ASHB dairy, good standard of improvements • Three bedroom home with sleepout • Best production: 67,119kgMS with last four year average being 64,103kgMS • Self contained - milking 200 cows wintered on farm and rearing 60 calves • Quarry on farm for track and raceway work • Pay back the mortgage and mill 16ha Pinus Radiata, 12ha 22 years, 4ha 21 years pggwre.co.nz/WHK29016

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

Opotiki TENDER Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold By Private Treaty) Closes 4.00pm, Thursday 15 November VIEW 11.00-1.00pm, Tuesday 16 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

Large Dairy Farm • What a great opportunity to purchase two dairy farms • Consisting of 319.1524 hectares • Main dairy farm is milking 500 cows with an average milk production of 173,000kg MS • Smaller farm is milking 200 cows with an average milk production of 67,000kg MS • Contour is mainly flat to rolling • Limestone quarry, great for farm races or foundation work • Three family homes • Call me today for further information pggwre.co.nz/DAG27809

Ruawai SALE BY DEADLINE

A Unique Opportunity 655 Okoroire Road

Okoroire

This superb 8.5ha property has a large modern executive four bedroom family home. The property also has a large packhouse with office, smoko room and shower, chiller room, workshop, two large plastic houses, two shade houses, three bay gable barn with three sides enclosed, large garage and outside room. The business side of the property involves the growing of calla lilies (five main colours and eight other colours) and Hydrangeas, exporting flowers around the world as well as supplying the local market throughout New Zealand.

AUCTION

rgrbin@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz/PUT28926

richard.leach@pggwrightson.co.nz

Central Hawke's Bay

Grow Your Own Future!

Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 2.00pm Thursday, 8 November

Ron Grbin B 09 439 3354 M 027 471 6388

(Unless Sold Prior) 11.00am, Tues, 30 Oct NI Kindergarten Conf Centre 6 Glenshea St, Putaruru VIEW 10.30-11.30am, Wed 26 Sep, 4 Oct 2-2.30pm, Sun, 23, 30 Sept

Richard Leach B 07 882 1485 M 027 472 7785

EXCLUSIVE

Intensive Cropping and Finishing • 'Tahuna' 579.8ha (1432.9 acres) in four blocks (six Certificates of Title) all with good road access • Located 11km north west of Waipawa, the Vendors will consider offers for all or any of the four blocks • Excellent contour with consents in place for 80 hectares of surface take irrigation • Improvements include four dwellings, three stand woolshed, two sets of cattle-yards, two sets of sheep-yards, haybarns plus a consented feedlot • Cropping maize, barley, potatoes and fodder crops • Properties of this location, size and contour, seldom become available pggwre.co.nz/HAS28763

DEADLINE PRIVATE TREATY Plus GST (if any) Closes 4.00pm, Thurs 8 Nov PGG Wrightson, Hastings

Doug Smith B 06 878 3156 M 027 494 1839

dougsmith@pggwrightson.co.nz

Paul Harper B 06 878 3156 M 027 494 4854

paul.harper@pggwrightson.co.nz

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

• Operational hydroponic lettuce business able to produce lettuces for market year round • Currently supplying a large number of cafes, restaurants and supermarkets in Canterbury • Three bedroom brick home with new wood-burner (consented) on a 1ha freehold title • Great home and income option or an off-farm investment to support wider farming families • Work your own hours with great flexibility around family life • Currently not running at full capacity, room to grow the business! pggwre.co.nz/ASH28598

Ashburton DEADLINE PRIVATE TREATY Plus GST (if any). No Prior Offers Closes 3.00pm, Monday 12 November

Tim Gallagher M 027 801 2888

tim.gallagher@pggwrightson.co.nz

Robin Ford B 03 307 8725 M 027 433 6883

rford@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz

New Zealand’s leading rural real estate company RURAL

LIFESTYLE

RESIDENTIAL

EXCLUSIVE

Marlborough

Substantial Viticulture Development Opportunity 2041 Taylor Pass Road Rarely available is this prime large-scale development property in the proven grape growing area of the Awatere Valley of Marlborough. 'Kilkishen Farm' is owned by a local family whose ownership goes back three generations and is currently a sheep and beef grazing property. One of the last substantial farms in the lower Awatere Valley yet to grow grapes. A total area of approx. 166ha of productive flats with approx. 121 hectares of plantable area (all subject to survey). With a substantial water right in place, this property lends itself to an easy conversion to viticulture. Secure yourself one of the last remaining large-scale blocks left in Marlborough. Call Joe Blakiston or Greg Lyons to find out more. Open Farm Day Thursday 11 Ocotber 1.00-3.00pm pggwre.co.nz/BLE28965

DEADLINE SALE Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 12.00pm, Thur 15 November 20 Westwood Avenue, Blenheim Joe Blakiston B 03 579 3702 | M 027 434 4069 jblakiston@pggwrightson.co.nz Greg Lyons B 03 579 1188 | M 027 579 1233 greg.lyons@pggwrightson.co.nz

NEW LISTING

Glen Lewis Terraces 271.7 Hectares - 177 Roessinks Road • Platform area approx. 233ha includes 10ha grazing licence • Production 3 year average 217,000 kg MS milking approx. 600 Cows • Cow shed 50 aside HB, auto cup removers and standoff pad, wide range supporting infrastructure including three homes • Management has maintained a rigid pasture renewal program and fertiliser application policy • Available with or without Westland Milk Products shares pggwre.co.nz/NEL28826

Inangahua DEADLINE PRIVATE TREATY Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 4.00pm, Friday 16 Nov

Douglas Smith B 03 543 8594 M 027 543 2280

douglasjcsmith@pggwrightson.co.nz

Peter Evans B 03 543 8599 M 027 224 9798

pevans@pggwrightson.co.nz

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

Eagle Hill - 369 Waimakiriri Gorge Road This most impressive 574.4791ha multi-purpose property is situated on the north bank of the Waimakiriri River just 16km to Oxford. Almost fully irrigated, it has been extensively used for dairy support in recent years and would equally be as well suited for large scale cattle finishing. Features include central location, irrigation consent and infrastructure, nutrient baseline, extensive shelter, approx. 38ha woodlot, fencing, including approx. 80ha deer fencing, lane system and ease of access. With two dwellings and a full range of farm infrastructure, this property is the complete package. pggwre.co.nz/CHR29018

View Hill DEADLINE PRIVATE TREATY Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 2.00pm, 1 November

Peter Crean M 027 434 4002

pcrean@pggwrightson.co.nz

Sam Davidson M 027 488 8269

sdavidson@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz

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