Farmers Weekly NZ February 5 2024

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4 Good as apples for 2024 harvest Vol 22 No 4, February 5, 2024

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Calls for help soar at Rural Support Trust Neal Wallace

PEOPLE

G

Community

ROWING numbers of farmers and growers are seeking help from the Rural Support Trust as they grapple with weather events, compliance and economic pressures.

Calls to the trust’s 0800 telephone number were 53% higher last year than in 2022, and increasing numbers of people are also directly approaching trust members or using email or social media.

The trust received 2904 calls to its 0800 number last year, 1000 more than a year earlier, though not all those calls were from people seeking help.

Trust chair Neil Bateup said the increase is logical given last year’s weather events, but pressure on farmers is growing from compliance demands and economically due to low product prices, rising interest rates and high inflation.

“We are busier overall but that could be because our people are better known or there are more people being referred to us.”

People are more inclined to seek help, a shift he welcomes.

“When we first started the trust in the Waikato 20 years ago, we’d never get someone saying they’re not coping.

“We do now.”

Bateup said across the country

trusts are seeing a growing number of cases where farmers and growers are feeling overwhelmed.

As the workload increases, the number of people helping the 14 trusts is growing, and now exceeds 360 trustees, co-ordinators, administrators and facilitators.

While the trust is coping with the increased workload, Bateup said it is hoping to attract more sponsorship to support its work, including reinstating the Farm Business Advice Fund, which pays for advice for farmers facing financial pressure.

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) ceased contributing to the fund at Christmas.

Since April 2020 the fund had received 157 applications with half of those lodged in the previous 12 months.

Bateup said the trust is investigating alternative funding sources to support the co-funding from the NZ Banking Association.

Vicki Crosswell, the co-ordinator of the Gisborne trust, said a year on from Cyclone Gabrielle, demand for its services has slowed “a little”, but farmers and growers are still struggling to repair their businesses and lives.

“It is not business as usual.

“The toll has been huge on farmers, growers and horticulturists.

“Some farmers have still not been able to get to the back of Continued page 3

Sea of stock gets the bids flowing Arrowsmith Station lambs make the most of the best sheepyard view in the country, alongside Lake Heron in Mid Canterbury, before finding new homes last week.

Arrowsmith offered 2000 mixed sex Poll Dorset-Merino cross lambs at its 13th annual sale.

Photo: Annette Scott

MARKETS 8

When the big C is all about community A Lincoln cropping and sheep farmer has taken everything cancer can throw at her and still wants to do as much as she can for others.

PEOPLE 14 Genetic findings give new hope to honey producers keen to protect NZ variety.

The new associate minister of justice promises a review of the 1983 Arms Act.

Trading relationships are about risk, reward and dead rats, says Ben Anderson.

NEWS 3

NEWS 7

OPINION 12

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Two Waikato candidates are contesting the vacancy on the board of Beef + Lamb New Zealand for the position of northern North Island director.

They are Peter Moore of Cambridge and Phil Weir of Te Pahu, near Pirongia.

Candidate profiles and voting papers will be posted to voters in that district in midFebruary 2024. The director election closes on Wednesday, March 13.

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BIO: Founder of fermentation company Biosouth and Lincoln University Professor Travis Glare says phages can kill bacteria that have an economic impact on kiwifruit, bees, cherries and salmon.

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Yes, it’s tough. I guess most farmers have been here before… We all need to look out for each other and get through what the next year or two will bring.

Anna Nelson - Incoming Silver Fern Farms chair

This year’s Farmed Landscapes Research Centre workshop in Palmerston North will focus on new systems and ideas that respond to current challenges.

The three-day workshop, from February 13-15, will be the 36th time the annual event has been held. Farmed Landscapes Research Centre director Professor Chris Anderson said the workshop is a key event each year for primary production professionals.

New era as SFF appoints first woman to chair LISTEN NOW

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

What separates NZ and Aus mānuka?

About 9 million years Richard Rennie

MARKETS

H

Apiculture

ONEY producers are optimistic that the latest genetic findings that distinguish New Zealand mānuka from Australian will play well for future efforts to protect the honey variety.

A recent genetic study across 2000 DNA markers or “SNiPs” from New Zealand and Tasmanian plants identified what the researchers described as vast differences – so much so, they could potentially be classed as a different species.

Those differences were estimated to have evolved between nine million and 12 million years ago.

The news has been welcomed by the industry, which is still smarting after last year’s decision by the Intellectual Property Office of NZ (IPONZ) commissioner, who ruled against NZ honey producers’ efforts to protect the term “mānuka honey”.

This meant the term “mānuka honey” could not be used as a certification mark in NZ and reinforced Australian opposition Continued from page 1

their farm because it has been too wet,” she said.

Thousands of kilometres of fences still need to be restored along with other infrastructure, such as tracks, before farmers can start generating income.

Much of the east coast has been wet since the cyclone, taxing the wellbeing of farmers and growers, which remains a focus for the trust.

“They need to be looking after themselves, to be in a good place and able to make the right decisions,” she said.

to use of the word. NZ had also appealed against a United Kingdom decision made on similar grounds, having initially been granted trademark protection there.

Karin Kos, CEO of Apiculture NZ, said the genetic testing reinforced the long-standing view held by NZ producers that mānuka honey from here is distinctly different.

The belief has always been we had to demonstrate NZ mānuka was a lot more distinctive, and this is the proof.

Karin Kos Apiculture NZ “This is just building up that anecdotal view with more evidence. The belief has always been we had to demonstrate NZ mānuka was a lot more distinctive, and this is the proof. It is a good step in the right direction.”

Manawatū honey producer Jason Prior of Downunder Honey, who is a member of the UMF Honey Association, said the genetic Northland trust chair and National Trustee Michelle Ruddell said they are still seeing new cases related to last year’s adverse weather.

“Many have not reached out previously but come along to an event and realise the support available and find the courage to ask for help.”

A year ago they had between 40 and 45 farmers seeking oneon-one assistance. Currently that number is 140.

When personal wellbeing and stress levels are high, Ruddell said, it compounds other factors such as farm performance.

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results gave the industry valuable pushback material, and possible new legal grounds to knock back Australian claims.

“We have already seen that the law is not set up to protect trademark genetic terms. For example the European Union prefers made-up words, like ‘Fonterra’, for example, and we have had problems trademarking terms like ‘mānuka’.”

The research paper was authored by Plant & Food Research scientists along with Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research. It identified nine family clusters in NZ matching different geographic regions, and two clusters in Tasmania.

The NZ clusters were more closely related than those found in Australia.

The differences in genetic profiles suggested the two groups of mānuka diverged 9-12 million years ago, a period Prior likened to the difference between chimp and human evolution.

The research was funded by Te Pitau Ltd, the operating arm of the Mānuka Charitable Trust, Plant & Food, and the Department of Conservation.

It was published in Springer Southland Rural Support Trust wellness co-ordinator Rachael Nicholson said the organisation received 31 new cases between August and November, twice as many as in the same quarter a year before.

It is not business as usual.

Vicki Crosswell Gisborne Rural Support Trust Farmers are struggling to deal with last year’s flooding, financial and employment pressures,

SWEET: Jason Prior of honey exporters Downunder Honey says the genetic results are a big plus for the sector in pushing for exclusive use of the term ‘mānuka honey’ over their Australian rivals.

Nature, and was reviewed by three independent overseas experts.

The study reinforces earlier Plant & Food work that determined there was a difference between NZ and Australian trees.

Mānuka Charitable Trust chair Pita Tipene said the results support what iwi have maintained throughout the debate.

“Mānuka is recognised taonga (treasure) under the Treaty of Waitangi, and its honey can only be sourced from and produced in Aotearoa NZ. “The expropriation of the name ‘mānuka honey’ to a plant or natural product from outside NZ is taking the identity and associated epistemology of our culture, our knowledge and what

we know and believe,” he said.

He said in addition it ignores the original names given to the Australian plants by their aboriginal people.

Prior said the news is “quite rosy”, coming at a time when the EU free trade agreement is about to kick off, possibly as early as April.

The EU agreement specifies Māori food and beverage operators can develop, protect and leverage their own Geographic Indicators for quality NZ products exported to the EU. “In a year or so it is likely this will have ramifications for other markets, and will likely set a precedent other markets like the UK cannot ignore.”

personal and business relationship challenges and exhaustion from working long hours over calving and lambing.

Bateup said every case is different, but last year there were consistent themes of weather, pressures from staffing and finance.

Usually there is an underlying issue.

“It may start as one conversation but as we peel back the layers there are often a number of factors impacting their mental health.”

Bateup said once people sit down and work through their

issues and come up with a plan, those pressures often ease.

Support is provided in different ways, from one-on-one assistance and a referral to a health or business professional, to dealing with adverse events for which it gets funding from the MPI, to raising awareness of its work.

Bateup said this is often done at events alongside entities such as DairyNZ, Beef+Lamb New Zealand or activities such as surfing, skiing or mountain biking for farmers.

Often the presence of the trust at these events allows a farmers to approach a trust member and seek assistance.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

News

Beef with EU frustrates exporters Nigel Stirling

MARKETS

F

Beef

RUSTRATION is mounting among beef exporters after months of being kept in the dark by the European Union over potentially trade-stopping supply chain regulations.

Under EU deforestation regulations passed last June, any entity anywhere in the world selling beef to the bloc’s 27 member countries must show proof that its products have not contributed to deforestation since the end of 2020.

The deadline for compliance is the end of this year.

Exporters will also need to prove their products were produced in compliance with the laws of the exporting country or risk fines equal to 5% of their global turnover.

Included in the EU’s global dragnet are exporters of soy, palm oil, cocoa, coffee, rubber and wood.

Lamb had been in its crosshairs too but the United Kingdom and New Zealand, as the two largest exporters of sheep meat to the EU, successfully argued against its inclusion.

Exporters, under the worst-case scenario, could have to supply socalled geo-location data for every single piece of beef entering the EU. This data would be matched up with a global reference map

of forest cover compiled by the EU to prove it is not a product of deforested land.

Beef +Lamb NZ (BLNZ) trade policy adviser Nick Jolly said the data requirements could be enormous under such a scenario.

“If you think of a 20 tonne container, there are quite a lot of bits of animals in there, which add up quite quickly ... if you have to provide coordinates for the whole of the animal’s life,” Jolly said.

High tariffs meant the $94 million of beef exported to the EU in 2022 was relatively small relative to NZ’s global beef exports of $4.6 billion in 2022/23.

However, the trade is high value and exporters frequently pay the high out-of-quota tariff to supply high-paying European customers.

Beef exporter ANZCO’s general manager sales and marketing, Rick Walker, said NZ’s beef trade to Europe is due to receive a boost later this year with the commencement of the NZ-EU free trade agreement.

Under the agreement, NZ’s highvalue beef quota rises from 846t per annum currently to 10,000t within seven years.

Walker said the deforestation regulations in their current form have the potential to stop NZ’s beef trade with the EU in its tracks.

“Based on the systems we have in the industry at the moment, it would be very, very difficult to deliver what they are asking us to deliver if not completely impossible.

WARY EYE: ANZCO’s general manager sales and marketing, Rick Walker, says complying with the deforestation reporting rules could be a ‘potentially significant issue’ for NZ exporters.

It would be very, very difficult to deliver what they are asking us to deliver, if not completely impossible.

Rick Walker ANZCO “If you look at this at face value, this is a potentially significant issue for our market access into Europe.”

BLNZ’s Jolly said it is particularly frustrating when NZ is not the intended target of the regulations.

He said the real target is Brazil, which, as a large contributor to global deforestation, is perversely in a better position to comply with the new regulations.

“If you look at the Brazilian beef that is going to the EU, it is certified and meets these requirements ... but it does place quite a big imposition on countries like NZ, who do not have systems set up for deforestation because it is not an issue here.

“If anything we are struggling with afforestation.”

Jolly said NZ is one of a number of countries pushing to be classified as a low risk to global deforestation.

It is hoped checks on beef shipments from countries deemed low-risk countries will be less frequent.

Due diligence requirements for importers could also be less onerous.

Jolly said exporters are still waiting for these details after being first promised them by

the EU by the end of 2023.

He said that had been replaced with an early 2024 deadline for more information, though a spokesperson for the EU in Wellington was unable to confirm that to Farmers Weekly.

ANZCO’s Walker said time is running out for exporters, with the December 31 deadline for compliance looming.

“That is why we are pushing Beef + Lamb and the Meat Industry Association and MFAT [the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade] to engage with our embassies in Europe and with the European Commission to discuss what this means for NZ. “How are they going to classify us and what can we do to start preparing for it, because it is really hard at the moment for us to do anything.”

Good as apples for positive 2024 harvest Richard Rennie

NEWS

Horticulture THE fortunes of the pipfruit sector appear to be lifting after last year’s disastrous weather events, with crop volumes estimated to be ahead of pre-Gabrielle levels.

Karen Morrish, CEO of NZ Apples and Pears, said estimates are that this year’s harvest, which is just kicking off, is likely to be 12% ahead of the 2022 harvest, and over a third greater than last year’s crop.

Export volumes are estimated at 21.2 million boxes, or 382,000 tonnes, and reports from orchardists are that fruit quality is of a high standard, with a high dry matter content ensuring good storage ability.

“Last year the Hawke’s Bay lost 610ha of orchard area to Gabrielle, or around about 10% of the region’s planted area, and in terms of national area we are down 2%.

“Despite the loss of orchards in

Hawke’s Bay, we have experienced growth across almost all areas of the country in plantings.”

Overall, 53% or 4400 hectares of

Hawke’s Bay orchards, were not affected by Gabrielle and were able to continue to pick and pack apples last season.

SWEET AS: NZ Apple and Pears CEO Karen Morrish says this year’s apple harvest is looking positive for volume and quality thanks to a kind season.

Morrish said that after Gabrielle many affected growers had to dig their orchards out of silt.

“It is amazing and surprising to see where we are today after where we were a year ago.

“Apple trees have proved to be resilient and so too are our growers.”

She said the gains offsetting Gabrielle’s impact also reflected the momentum in plantings that had gathered prior to covid-19, driven by greater investment.

The latest crop gains reflected those plantings coming on stream.

Gisborne has now moved to be the country’s third largest apple growing area after Hawke’s Bay and Nelson, with recent investment coming into the region for high-value varieties including Rockit and Dazzle varieties.

Two thirds of the sector’s exports are now shipped out of Napier.

“It has been a good season right from the start. Growers have reported they had a very kind spring, summer has had good

rainfall alongside sunny weather.

‘Kind’ is a word I have heard used a lot this year.”

The intense labour constraints felt by the sector during covid-19 have eased significantly, and growers offering accommodation are well placed she said.

Despite the loss of orchards in Hawke’s Bay, we have experienced growth across almost all areas of the country in plantings.

Karen Morrish NZ Apples and Pears “There has also been a significant lift in backpackers visiting – not in droves, but they are certainly back here.”

Early varieties of some apples area already being harvested, with harvest likely to hit full swing after Waitangi Day.

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News

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

Avo growers look to tell green story Richard Rennie

MARKETS

A

Horticulture

TOUGH year for avocado exporters is prompting the sector to look hard at options to improve fruit quality and crop resilience in the face of tough international competition.

They are also working to turn up the volume to overseas markets on the industry’s sustainability story.

New Zealand Avocado CEO Brad Siebert said three tough growing seasons punctuated by Cyclone Dovi in 2022, then cyclones Hale and Gabrielle last year, had beaten up fruit during the critical growth phase, resulting in significant downgrade from export standard.

“This sees the volume increase that goes onto the domestic market with about 3 million trays domestically. It means we have about a million less trays not going to export,” he said.

Estimates are for about 4.4 million trays this season in total, with 1.4 million export trays, compared to 2.6 million in previous years.

Hopes are high for prices to rise coming into the winter harvest

SMASHED AVOS: Tough growing conditions with at least three cyclones in the past two years have affected the export quality of avocados, pushing more onto the domestic market, says CEO for NZ Avocado Industry Brad Siebert. period of the second-generation fruit that started growing in November.

“This fruit looks good for size, and if nature plays its part, we will be looking good for that harvest.”

Export competition has also been

intense, with southern hemisphere competition coming out of most of South America and Western Australia.

Eastern Australian states have some limitations on their export options, given the endemic fruit fly problem in Queensland. But

Australia is achieving good access to India, thanks in part to a free trade agreement that sees a gradual decline in tariffs on fruit exported there.

Siebert said NZ growers are always challenged, growing the fruit in the windiest, wettest possible part of the world. It means year-round supply is also a challenge compared to South American competitors. NZ avocados are only 2% of global supply.

“At the moment we are putting credentials around our sustainability story and are completing a whole of industry life-cycle assessment that provides evidence-based proof of our sustainability.”

He said overseas operators’ impact on the environment and labour conditions suffered by staff in avocado operations are topical subjects on social media at present.

“You have to wave the flag to get the public’s attention, and right now people are not buying based on a responsible environmental decision.”

However, he said retailers are increasingly seeking validation on produce sources and production,

while trade agreements are also increasingly seeking assurances as part of market access requirements.

“We want to make sure we have the standards in place to achieve that.”

At the moment we are putting credentials around our sustainability story, and are completing a whole of industry life-cycle assessment that provides evidence-based proof of our sustainability.

Brad Siebert NZ Avocado Other efforts to improve crop consistency are presently in quarantine, with the importation of United States and Israeli root stock.

Once out in April, the clonal rootstock will be trialled for its suitability to grow here.

“For growers we know, with these types of activities, the timelines are long, but it is the responsible thing to do to help improve the sector’s opportunities.”

Poetic twist to making sustainable land use changes Richard Rennie

NEWS

Land

ADVISERS as diverse as artists, activists and even poets may be invaluable sources of advice to help land users make sustainable land use changes.

Research by Manaaki WhenuaLandcare Research on how farmers, foresters and orchardists will adopt sustainable land use methods has found these “agents of change” can be more diverse than conventional farm advisers, bankers and peers.

“We were looking to better

understand the range of influencers that will lead to land managers making more sustainable land use decisions,” project lead Melissa Robson-Williams said.

The research is part of Landcare’s “moving the middle” research that aims to better understand how landowners can be given more agency and confidence to improve their environmental performance.

“It is about recognising farming is part of a system, it is complex and interconnected with points of constraint. The aim is to free up those points to allow managers to take more action on the land,” she said.

Their work has identified 80 examples of agents working on land use change in New Zealand.

While identifying the diversity of agents, it has not told the researchers which are being recognised and which are not.

Survey work is identifying those agents and attaching a level of leverage they have in terms of their power to make changes to the land use systems, from “tweaking” to “medium” to “deep” changes.

Tweaked changes may involve relatively superficial adjustments, like installing a new irrigation system without changing the land management below it.

Moderate leverage can include overseeing changes to laws or policy, and deep leverage involves changing the entire system’s operation, goals and time horizons.

“The changes made at a shallow level can be quite expensive, versus a deep level where the costs can be lower.

“But deep leverage requires deep political investment to get the changes made, while values and mindsets are also hard to change.”

Some of the lessons learnt to date include encouraging landowners to think about who or what

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they may support when making changes to improve sustainability.

Agents are also likely to intervene at different depths, and owners need to consider if the agent’s depth is aligned to theirs.

“And often we think we are intervening at a different level than what we are.”

There are also different agents suited to whenua Māori property, compared to European land models.

The research has three years to run, with Landcare aiming to get results on agent types and their depth of leverage out as survey results continue to be completed.

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

Pathogen research ready to turn a phage Phages are “very specific” and attack only a single strain of bacteria, which means a single phage can not kill all bacteria, Glare said.

While this could be an advantage for the industry because very specific products will have to be developed for different bacteria, using only a few specific phages on a bacteria could possibly lead to resistance, he said.

“We will have to make phage cocktails made of different phages,” Glare said.

The project is led by Professor Peter Fineran from the University of Otago and Dr Heather Hendrickson from the University of Canterbury.

The project also includes researchers from Plant and Food Research and the Cawthron Institute.

Experts across many fields are needed because no single group would get to a desired end goal alone, Glare said.

Glare is also the founder of Biosouth, a fermentation company, and said his biggest hurdle is scaling production.

“My biggest challenge is scale, going from production in a flask, to 1000 litres, to 10,000 litres, and doing that in a way that’s economical.

“There are really small margins in this. You need something that

Gerhard Uys

TECHNOLOGY

A

Food and fibre

TEAM of researchers have been tasked to find, grow and scale production of viruses that will kill pathogens and bacteria that have an economic impact on the horticulture and bee industries.

Lincoln University Professor Travis Glare will attempt to scale production of bacteriophages, referred to as phages, which are viruses that feed on and kill bacteria and pathogens.

Such products already exist in human medicine, he said.

This is, however, a relatively new concept in agriculture, although some commercial products are already available in Europe, Glare said.

Phages can target specific bacteria, and not affect others that may be beneficial to the organism.

Initial products will economically benefit the kiwifruit and apiculture sectors, which have been significantly impacted by the bacterial pathogen kiwifruit vine canker, or Psa, and American Foulbrood, which attacks honeybees.

Work on phage biocontrols for cherry and salmon industries will follow.

BIO: Founder of fermentation company Biosouth and Lincoln University Professor Travis Glare says phages can kill bacteria that have an economic impact on kiwifruit, bees, cherries and salmon. can be produced in bulk, but it should cost dollars, not hundreds of dollars.”

Each step in the process has hurdles to overcome, Glare said.

For example, Professor Craig Bunt from the University of Otago is working on formulations to make sure phages don’t die after they are sprayed onto plants.

Development of a commercial product of this kind could take between five and 10 years, Glare said.

Staff reporter

NEWS

Environment

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every problem in agriculture, but it has the potential to be quite significant.” Glare said phages are very adaptable.

“You can keep changing phages in a product without necessarily going back to square one. If you get resistance you can swap one phage out for another one.”

Glare received $8.9 million for the project from the Endeavour Fund, which is administered by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.

Rubber hits the road on tyre recycling project

THE NOT SO SPENDY

Sure, the Suzuki DR200 might not be the cheapest farm bike out there, but it is New Zealand’s favourite … and little wonder. With its legendary reliability and durability, even at $6,086 +GST Kiwi farmers know it’ll cost a whole lot less at the end of the day. And with no deposit, 0% P.A. interest for 12 months and from $20 per day, it’s really not that spendy.

“The main idea of this project isn’t just the products we are working on, but the pipeline of how you do this and how it can lead to other products.”

Phage products could to some extent replace chemical pesticides and antibiotics, he said.

The infrastructure for growing phage is the same as for producing biopesticides from live organisms, he said. The sale structure is the same as selling pesticides.

“This is not going to solve

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THE first stage of government regulations designed to reduce environmental harm from unused tyres will take effect from March 1.

About 6.5 million tyres reach their end of life each year and the majority are either taken to landfills or dumped.

Tyrewise, New Zealand’s regulated product stewardship scheme for tyres will make it easier for the rural sector to safely dispose of everything from tyres on sideby-sides and utes to those found on tractors and harvesters, Adele Rose of Tyrewise Implementation project managers 3R Group said.

The first stage of regulation begins on March 1, when buyers will be charged a tyre stewardship fee when they purchase new tyres or vehicles imported with tyres.

The fee will be used to manage those tyres at the end of their life. It has been applied at a standard rate across the country, $6.65 (excluding GST) for a standard passenger tyre and will go up in increments depending on the size of tyre.

Existing ad hoc disposal fees may apply on any old tyres needing disposal up until September 1, 2024. After then Tyrewise will be responsible for arranging the free collection of end-of-life tyres from registered tyre sellers, garages and public collection sites.

The scheme will also ensure the tyres go to registered processors and manufacturers, so they get a second life in a new product, rather than being landfilled, stockpiled, or dumped.

“The rural sector has some unique challenges when it comes to end-of-life

tyres due to the often-remote locations and the size of some of the tyres replaced off large machinery,” Rose said.

Tyrewise will work with rural service providers to enable backloading of the more difficult-to-collect tyres, making the process easier and more efficient, she said.

Tyrewise has set a target of 80% of tyres processed by the fourth year of operation and over 90% by the sixth year, Rose said.

Currently only about 40% of end-of-life tyres in NZ are recycled or used in the creation of new products.

It’s amazing what you can achieve when an entire industry comes together to make a positive difference.

Adele Rose Tyrewise “Specially designed software will track the volumes collected and delivered to processors and manufacturers so that we can measure and report our progress against the targets,” she said.

“Our implementation team has been busy behind the scenes for months now, registering tyre importers, sellers, transporters, processors, and end market manufacturers, making sure everybody is ready to play their part. It’s amazing what you can achieve when an entire industry comes together to make a positive difference.”

The scheme will initially cover all air-filled and solid tyres for use on motorised vehicles for cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles, allterrain vehicles, tractors, forklifts, aircraft and off-road vehicles.

News

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

McKee takes aim at firearms legislation Neal Wallace

POLITICS

A

Policy and regulations

SURVEY of licensed firearm owners showing rock-bottom confidence in the police and the new Firearms Safety Authority is a matter of concern for the minister overseeing firearm reform.

Associate Minister of Justice Nicole McKee attributes that loss of trust to owners ceasing engaging with police and officials following the far-reaching and unpopular reforms introduced by the previous government.

The Council for Licensed Firearm Owners (COLFO) annual survey asked owners how much confidence they have in the police’s ability to administer the Arms Act (1983), using a scale of 1-10, one being little to no confidence, and 10 being very confident.

Asked the degree of trust in the police to “fairly balance the promotion of possession and use of firearms with the need to impose controls on unlawful activity”, respondents returned a score just 1.3 out of 10.

McKee said firearm owners and shooting ranges raised concerns about the behaviour of Christchurch Mosque shooter Brenton Tarrant, which went

unheeded, but subsequent changes to firearm regulations were considered excessive.

“Firearm owners are sick of being blamed for something they didn’t do.

“They feel as if their private property rights have been taken away and that they are being treated no better than gang members.

“I want us to get back to where we had some respect and arms legislation that will keep the public safe.”

Six security data breaches since 2019 in which the names and addresses of firearm owners have been stolen have also eroded trust.

“It’s become a real concern for the safety of individuals and their families.

“Licensed firearm owners feel they are becoming a target not just by the previous government, but also gangs.”

McKee is promising a review of the 1983 Arms Act during this term of Parliament to simplify regulations and increase public safety so firearms don’t fall into the hands of criminals, saying constant tinkering has made it unwieldy.

She is also considering introducing a three-tier licensing system: standard; restricted, for those yet to meet standards or need extra administration for a

minor violation; and enhanced, providing special conditions for roles such as pest control.

McKee said regulatory changes must reflect that for groups such as farmers, firearms are a tool and not just a hobby.

One of her first actions will be seeking to replace the section of the Arms Act that heightened regulations that shooting clubs and ranges must operate under, and which COLFO said has caused 10 to close in recent months.

Shooting ranges and clubs were required to become incorporated societies, which means the names and addresses of volunteer office holders are published on the Companies Office website.

These obligations have public safety implications, she said.

McKee intends by June to initiate a review of the firearms registry to see if it is working as intended and to address concerns it is difficult to navigate.

She is also seeking advice on transferring responsibility for policy and regulation of the Arms Act to the Ministry of Justice and the role of the Firearms Safety Authority, which administers the Act, to the Department of Internal Affairs.

The COLFO survey also revealed low confidence in the police administering the Arms Act without showing personal bias,

CHANGES: Associate Minister of Justice Nicole McKee is promising a review of the 1983 Arms Act during this term of Parliament. with a score of 1.6 out of 10, down from 2.1 in 2022 and 2021.

Confidence in the turnaround time for licensing scored two out of 10, only slightly up from the 2022 score of 1.9, which came at a time of 12-month waits for licence renewals.

Confidence in the Firearms Safety Authority is also close to rock bottom at just 1.9 out of 10.

COLFO spokesperson Hugh Devereux-Mack said the survey shows the relationship between police and licensed firearm owners is deteriorating.

“Our survey shows that 100,000 firearms on the [firearms] registry is only evidence of compliance,

I want us to get back to where we had some respect and arms legislation that will keep the public safe.

Nicole McKee Associate Minister of Justice not confidence in the police or system.”

Devereux-Mack said repairing licensed firearm owner’s trust and confidence in the system should be top of mind for the new government.

‘Gun sales plummeting on register fears’ NEWS

Hunting SALES of new and used firearms are plummeting as concerns with the new Firearms Register evaporates buyer interest.

Trade Me reports that listings of secondhand shotguns and rifles were up 46% last year compared to 2022, but sales are back 17% over the same period.

Council for Licensed Firearm Owners spokesperson Hugh Devereux-Mack said he has heard of some retailers experiencing a 75% decline in sales with some smaller stores having to close.

He attributes fewer sales to licensed firearm owners not wanting to register a newly bought

firearm because they do not trust the arms registry.

Confidence has been eroded by a series of data breaches that revealed the names, addresses and types of privately-owned firearms, Devereux-Mack said.

Others are staying out of the market in the hope a promise from the incoming government to review whether the registry is fulfilling its purpose, will see it abandoned, he said.

Devereux-Mack said information provided by police in response to two Official Information Act (OIA) requests revealed that only 123, or less than 2%, of the more than 6500 firearms seized by police in the past three years were legally imported or manufactured in NZ. Devereux-Mack said this means

98% of firearms seized from criminals by police in the past three years would never appear on the Firearms Registry because they were either imported illegally or constructed locally without serial numbers.

A second OIA reveals that the proportion of firearms without serial numbers seized by police has increased since the registry was announced.

Previously the figure was about a third of seized firearms.

By last November 65% did not have serial numbers, which Devereux-Mack said indicates criminals are avoiding the registry.

The existence of this data shows police have long known that a Firearms Registry would be of limited use, and that many

registered firearms would have already been recorded on police import permits, he said.

“This is clear-cut evidence that up to 98% of firearms used by criminals will never appear on a register.

“The registry has been a massive deception of the public, to fool them into feeling safer when they are not, at a cost of tens of millions of dollars.”

He said licensed firearm owners have been an easy target.

“Licensed firearm owners are the easiest ones when the police need to be seen to be doing something to address rising gun crime.”

Devereux-Mack welcomed moves by the government to repeal and rewrite part of the Arms Act to simplify regulatory, requirements,

improve compliance and reduce obligations on clubs and shooting ranges.

He said he hopes changes will go further and make it easier for people to get their firearm’s licence but also obligate them to join a shooting range or club such as the Deerstalkers Association, as is required in Australia.

At present someone can get a licence without ever firing a firearm.

Joining a club or range would provide oversight of licence holders while also enhancing their skills and ethics.

“Potentially if the government was to open up the number of providers, it would educate users and teach them how to safely use firearms,” he said.

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

Brisk bidding at on-farm lamb sales Annette Scott & Neal Wallace

MARKETS

Livestock

T

HE dry kicked in back in December when just 12mm of rain fell for the month, making conditions difficult for Ashburton high country farmers leading into their on-farm lamb sales.

The quality of the lambs wasn’t quite where farmers would have liked it to be, and with lamb feed depleted and no rain, the annual sales were brought forward a week.

“We didn’t get the rain we needed in December and while we got rain last week it didn’t do anything for these lambs we have yarded for sale today,” Arrowsmith Station farm manager Alan McIntyre said.

Arrowsmith offered 2000 mixed sex Poll Dorset-Merino cross lambs at its 13th annual sale.

“I am pleasantly surprised at what has been achieved. We knew we would be down on last year, that’s a reflection of the sheep industry in general,” McIntyre said.

“The prices today are better than I expected given the market price crash and then the dry season adding salt to the wound.”

In an exceedingly rare event, Arrowsmith is buying in baleage.

“Winter feed has suffered in the dry, it’s unheard of up here but we are buying in baleage.

“We’re back to the summers of old. It’s going to be a tough winter I reckon,” McIntyre said.

The tops of the Poll DorsetMerino mix-sex lambs fetched $141 down to $134 while lighter types sold at $114. Wether lambs ranged from $88 downwards to $65 while the ewe lambs were in the market from $80-$72.

Said neighbouring Castle Ridge owner Paul Harmer, “We put up the best we could.”

The lambs were not as big as usual but he too was pleasantly surprised with the sale outcome.

“This result is better than expected given the challenging season. The lambs are back a little but sold surprisingly well.”

There was confidence in the buying gallery.

“We had regular buyers back.

They know the lambs will do all right; they keep coming back.”

Harmer said the biggest challenge going forward is the winter feed.

“We have had winter feed in the ground for five weeks and it’s only just struck now with the rain this week. We have had to re-drill ryecorn to be sure we have winter feed.”

HEATING UP: Castle Ridge sale day was typical of the hot and dry January weather in the region.

Castle Ridge sold 8000 Poll Dorset cross lambs with the tops of the wethers making $140, second and third cuts selling from $127-$115 and lighter types $98-$84.

The tops of the ewe lambs sold from $138 down to $124, with medium types going for $107-$90 and lighter sorts $83-$76.

Down the road Mt Possession sold 9000 lambs in its annual lineup, making farm manager Ryan Hussey “pretty happy”.

“We held up well given the conditions.

“We had good lamb feed early but it’s been dry this last couple of months and we run out of tucker. We have still sold ahead of expectation.

“Some years we can hold back the lighter lambs but this year was not an option, everything was yarded for sale.”

The tops of the Suffolk cross black face crypt lambs ranged from $120 down to $104 with medium types $89-$81 and light $66. Ewe lambs topped $118 selling down to $76.

Halfbred wether lambs sold from $100 to $75 with smaller lambs selling at $61. A line of halfbred annual draft ewes sold for $94.

A small but powerful buyer

NUMBERS: A strong buying gallery bid briskly at the Mt Possession lamb sale.

Photos: Annette Scott gallery, many from the south, lifted the market at the annual Double Hill Station sale in the Rakaia Gorge.

PGG Wrightson livestock auctioneer Joe Higgins said local buyers competing with the good contingent from the south pushed the average sale price to an estimated $2.80/kg with the top price of the day at $126 for Suffolk cross mix sex lambs, while the top of the Perendale lines fetched $122.

Meanwhile, bumper grass growth

PLEASING: Arrowsmith farm manager Alan McIntyre says prices for his lambs were better than expected.

in Southland has underpinned better than expected crossbred store lamb prices at lower South Island sales.

John Duffy, PGG Wrightson’s Otago regional livestock manager, said compared to current prime lamb schedules, store prices and demand were higher than expected.

Prices paid at recent on-farm sales averaged $83-$84/head, with the best lambs, those ready to be killed, making $117/head.

Other store lambs made $60 to $70/head.

Buyers came from Southland and South Canterbury.

Duffy said there was a noticeable increase in demand for lambs offered by established store lamb breeders and also those offering larger lines, up to 1200 head.

PGG Wrightson Southland livestock manager Andrew Martin said the abundance of feed has underpinned what he calls a solid season, with demand outstripping supply.

Good quality store lambs are selling for $95-$100/head and small healthy lambs $50/head. He said buyers are keenest for lambs priced $80-$90/head.

Most buyers were from within Southland.

Temuku tops up spirits too Annette Scott

MARKETS

Livestock

VENDORS met the market and were generally happy with the prices at the Temuka breeding ewe fair.

“It was a good satisfactory sale on all accounts with vendors and purchasers both leaving happy,” PGG Wrightson auctioneer Rod Sands said.

“There’s a lot of farmers hurting out there and that showed as they were more choosy on the capital stock lines with the market firming across the four- and fiveyear old ewes.”

The yarding of 10,200 breeding ewes included 3600 capital stock ewes due to farm sales or changes in farming practices.

The best of the 4-tooth Romney, Texel and Texel-Romney sold from

$160 down to $124 with the 3- to 4-year bracket selling in a wider range with better types typically making $156 -$132.

The bulk of the 4- to 5-year ewes sold in the $81-$91 bracket with better lines $123-$130. More than 2000 5-year ewes were offered with the tops selling from $100$112. Adult ewes were in $80-$95 range.

Romney and Suffolk were the most popular among the mixedage ewe pens and the best of these traded at $133 down to $100.

Good lines of Romney 2-shear sold at $157 and 3-shear $151.

The vibe was similar at the annual Hawarden breeding ewe fair where the market overall exceeded expectation.

While the crossbred ewes sold to greater demand with the top price of $194 paid for 2-th Romneys,

mid micron annual draft ewes met the market of the day selling from $82-$105.

Three-shear Romneys from Lower Farm in Hanmer ranged from $161 down to $150 4-shear $145-$130. The best of the 5-shear Romney ewes offered by Iona Farm, Cheviot, sold at $130 while others went under the hammer at $123.

A big line of 430 Corriedale 6-shear ewes sold on account of Glen Clova Farm made $102-$85 while a line of 520 annual draft halfbreds from McDonald Downs ranged from $95-$71.

“Buying power for the crossbreds was from Canterbury and the finer wools from Marlborough, it was as clear cut as that,” Hazlett livestock manager Ed Marfell said.

“There was a positive vibe on where prices met the market and that reflected confidence that

SMILES: PGG Wrightson auctioneer Rod Sands says despite the industry’s challenges, vendors and purchasers left happy. here is a future for the industry.

“We have been in a big dipper, but every dipper reaches a

bottom and hopefully we are on the way up from here,” Marfell said.

News

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

Two kiwifruit a day keeps the blues away Staff reporter

NEWS

Food and fibre KIWIFRUIT has proven itself as a powerful mood booster – and new research from the University of Otago has shown just how fast its effects can be.

In a study published in the British Journal of Nutrition, researchers found the furry fruit improved vitality and mood in as little as four days.

Co-author Professor Tamlin Conner of the Department of Psychology said the findings point to a tangible and accessible way for people to support their mental wellbeing.

“It’s great for people to know that small changes in their diet, like adding kiwifruit, could make a difference in how they feel every day.”

Vitamin C intake has been associated with improved mood, vitality and wellbeing, and lower depression. Vitamin C deficiency is associated with higher depression and cognitive impairment.

However, Conner said limited research has assessed how quickly mood improvements occur after introducing vitamin C supplements or whole food sources.

The researchers aimed to fill that gap with an eight-week dietary intervention of 155 adults with low vitamin C. Participants took either a vitamin C supplement, placebo, or

two kiwifruit daily. They reported their vitality, mood, flourishing, sleep quality, sleep quantity and physical activity, using smartphone surveys.

The researchers found kiwifruit supplementation improved vitality and mood within four days, peaking at around 14–16 days, and improved flourishing from Day 14. Vitamin C, on the other hand, marginally improved mood until Day 12.

Lead author Dr Ben Fletcher, who conducted the research as part of his PhD at Otago, said understanding the nuances of when and how these effects occur day-to-day contributes to our knowledge of the potential benefits of vitamin C-rich foods and supplements on mental health.

“This helps us see that what we eat can have a relatively fast impact on how we feel.

“Our participants had relatively good mental health to begin with so had little room for improvement, but still reported the benefits of kiwifruit or vitamin C interventions,” he said.

While vitamin C tablets showed some improvements, Fletcher said the study underscores the potential synergistic effects of consuming whole foods like kiwifruit.

“We encourage a holistic approach to nutrition and wellbeing, incorporating various nutrient-rich foods into your diet.”

WHOLE AND HEALTHY: Dr Ben Fletcher says the study underscores the potential synergistic effects of consuming whole foods like kiwifruit.

DAMAGE: This aerial photograph shows slips in the Pātoka area following Cyclone Gabrielle.

Cantab researchers tally Gabrielle landslides Staff reporter

NEWS

Land

C

ANTERBURY researchers and students have mapped 140,000 landslides triggered by Cyclone Gabrielle in a bid to create models for future weather events.

However, that figure represents just 20% of the land area affected

by Gabrielle and researchers believe the total number of slips could be as many as 850,000.

Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC) senior lecturer and lead researcher Dr Tom Robinson said he was surprised at the sheer number of landslides they found.

“In the Esk Valley alone, in just one 12km square area you’ve got over 2000 landslides.”

Robinson said mapping the landslides is critical to future resilience and New Zealand now boasts one of the largest singleevent inventories of landslides globally.

“Landslides are difficult to forecast and predict. The only way you can do it is by looking at where they’ve occurred in the past,” Robinson said.

“Mapping tells us the conditions that triggered them in the past: the type of slopes, what is on the

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land, has rainfall caused it and if so how intense was the rainfall, was it an earthquake, how much shaking was there – all critical information telling us how landslides occur.

“So, when we have a future event, particularly rainfall, we could say this is where we think a landslide is most likely to occur, the predicted trajectory, what’s in its path, and therefore do we need to shut roads, do we need to evacuate people?”

For mapping, the team uses aerial imagery with up to 30cm high-resolution, imagery so powerful you can spot a laptop on the ground.

Robinson said changes in building and land use regulations can mean our memory of past events is short lived.

“You can go back to Cyclone Bola in the late 1980s and put images side by side – the only thing that has changed is the quality of the imagery. The landslides are in the same place. These have failed before in an extreme event, and they will probably fail again. That’s why it’s so important that we understand where these landslides have occurred so we can avoid them in the future.”

While it was 30 years between Cyclone Bola and Cyclone Gabrielle, the impact of climate

change has increased the potential frequency of devastating weather events.

Robinson said they are mapping two types of land movement slides and flows.

“A slide is where the material all moves at once and stays relatively coherent; when you look at where it ends up you can imagine what it originally looked like on the hillside. A slide will also travel a shorter distance and is bigger and deeper, often causing much more damage.

“Flows are chaotic. It all gets mixed up and runs into hollows and divots, following river channels and travelling much further.”

The mapping process is rigorous and has involved hours of training to sharpen the students’ eyes to the attributes and differences between slides and flows. Robinson said seeing the knowledge growth in students has been highly rewarding.

“This has been an amazing opportunity to build the next generation of leading landslide hazard researchers.”

Robinson recently received funding from EQC to apply the research to a national landslide risk assessment for residential housing. This work will begin this year.

10 Editorial

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Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

Text to the editor Destroyer of relationships • On succession Have you had anyone disagree with traditional farm succession, as in it being extremely unfair on other siblings (who are not successors) in terms of financial freedom?

I farm myself but do not agree with what happened in our situation as far as succession went. It was totally one sided and destroyed relationships.

There’s too much capital involved to use such a method, I think.

Text us your thoughts on issues raised in Farmers Weekly. Look out for the details on how to do it on selected stories, and include the key word in your text to 027 226 8553.

Letters of the week Don’t blame farmers Terry Williamson Opuatia

From the Editor

Waste not, want not Craig Page

Deputy editor

W

HEN it comes to wasting food, New Zealand sits firmly in the “must do better” category.

The country’s fertile soils and climate are perfect for growing meat and a variety of produce. But increasingly more and more of those products are going to waste, either at the production end or by consumers.

Last year’s Rabobank-KiwiHarvest Food Waste survey showed NZ’s overall food waste bill continued to climb, up 2.6% to reach $3.2 billion. It’s equivalent to the cost of feeding 688,000 New Zealanders for a year.

The survey – undertaken in late July and early August – also found the value of food wasted per household remains relatively unchanged ($1510 from $1520 last year) due to higher food prices.

The key reasons for wasting food continue to be “food going off before you

can finish it” (50%) and “before use-by and best-before dates” (32%), while the major food waste concerns remain “cost” (74%) and “feelings of guilt that other people around NZ going without” (35%).

Vegetables (38%), bread (29%) and fruit (25%) are the three top spots on the food waste list.

Concerns over just how much food is being wasted prompted a group of University of Otago researchers to launch a national food waste audit in a bid to find out why we waste so much food.

The research aims to capture all imported or domestically produced food and drink throughout the food supply chain. Foods produced in NZ include products from plants, animals, aquaculture and fisheries.

The United Nations estimates 13.3% of the world’s food is lost after harvesting and before reaching retail markets.

The Central Otago District Council (CODC) is showing initiative in this space, taking a proactive approach to reducing food waste in its region.

Central Otago is the southern fruit bowl, a huge producer of summer delicacies such as cherries, apricots and peaches. But the strict demands for export quality products means that if fruit doesn’t cosmetically look the part then it doesn’t make the grade.

Depending on weather conditions, wastage can be significant.

In 2022 the CODC commissioned a report – Understanding Fruit Loss in Central Otago

– that determined about 6155 tonnes of fruit in the region go to waste each year.

On average 2207t of Central Otago cherries are discarded or not harvested due to imperfections.

That will increase as new plantings reach peak production.

A working party of industry, growers and food manufacturers was established, and tasked with coming up with ways of using more locally grown fruit that would otherwise go to waste.

At a time when many families are struggling financially, it seems unfathomable that so much food is allowed to go to waste.

Alexandra’s Eden Orchards was already converting processing-grade cherries into cherry juice – collecting cherries from local orchards – and agreed to a 12-month trial to produce individually quick-frozen cherries. Surprisingly, frozen cherries are not produced in this country.

It is early days, but the project is looking like a viable option for orchardists.

At a time when many families are struggling financially, it seems unfathomable that so much food is allowed to go to waste. The CODC has shown that, with a bit of thought and direction, we can all do better.

YOUR article “Work on water reform slows to a trickle” (January 22) has a photo of a less than pristine stream. With the mention of North Waikato in the article, I wouldn’t be surprised if this was a snapshot of our Opuatia stream.

Unfortunately, “the Opuatia” looks as bad as this all year, but if anyone is naive enough to think that farming is to blame, think again.

Try carp, but if that is the case, who gets the blame?

I guess that gets filed in the “too hard” basket.

• Correction Allan Barber’s column, “Has Fonterra been an unqualified good?” (January 29), contained the statement that Miraka, “after an unsuccessful attempt to sell the company, has had to approach its shareholders for additional capital”.

Miraka points out that while it has “always been open about seeking growth, with the support of our shareholders and the right partners to do that with”, this has “never meant that the business was for sale”.

We apologise for the error.

Best letter WINS a quality hiking knife Send your letter to the Editor at Farmers Weekly P.0. Box 529, Feilding or email us at farmers.weekly@agrihq.co.nz

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Opinion

11 In My View

11

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

In my view ...

Rights that just cannot be removed Dominic O’Sullivan

O’Sullivan is Adjunct Professor, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, and Professor of Political Science, Charles Sturt University

A

LL three parties in New Zealand’s new coalition government went into the election promising to diminish various Māori-based policies or programmes. But it was the ACT Party that went furthest, calling for a referendum to redefine the “principles” of te Tiriti o Waitangi/Treaty of Waitangi.

The referendum didn’t make it into the coalition agreement, but National and New Zealand First have agreed to a Treaty Principles Bill going to a select committee for further consideration.

Meanwhile, NZ First negotiated a review of all legislation referring to the Treaty principles and to “replace all such references with specific words relating to the relevance and application of the Treaty, or repeal the references”.

These proposals are significant because they would reverse a decades-long bipartisan trend towards increasing the Treaty’s influence in public life.

Over the past 50 years, the Treaty principles have been developed by parliament, the courts and the Waitangi Tribunal. The principles include partnership, reciprocity, mutual benefit, active protection of Māori interests, and redress for past wrongs.

ACT argues that these principles give people “different political rights based on birth”, meaning Māori have a bigger say in political decisions, and that this affronts political equality.

Others have argued the principles overshadow the substance of the Treaty, meaning Māori have less say, and that this is actually where inequality lies.

This in turn explains why, for

example, Māori die an average six to seven years younger than other people.

When the Treaty was presented to Māori chiefs (rangatira) in 1840 by the Anglican missionary Henry Williams, he stressed that the protection of Māori authority over their own affairs was a serious and unbreakable promise.

Most importantly for the current debate, people were given reasons to believe the government would not interfere with a Māori right to be Māori.

Specifically, the British Crown would establish a government (Article 1 of te Tiriti). Māori would enjoy tino rangatiratanga over their own affairs (Article 2) – the inherent authority to make decisions, not the government’s gift to take away as it pleased.

Māori would also enjoy the rights and privileges of British subjects (Article 3), and there would be “equality of tikanga” (cultural equality). By now, “subjecthood” has come to mean New Zealand citizenship, and the concept continues to evolve.

ACT’s alternative principles do not use the language developed to deal with the Treaty’s meaning over the past 50 years.

They state: • All citizens of New Zealand have the same political rights and duties.

• All political authority comes from the people by democratic means including universal suffrage, regular and free elections with a secret ballot.

• New Zealand is a multi-ethnic liberal democracy where discrimination based on ethnicity is illegal.

These could be interpreted to support the idea that cultural equality means Māori people are allowed to be Māori when they participate in public life. But ACT’s election campaign rhetoric, and the coalition government agreements, suggest the opposite intent.

INTENT: Dominic O’Sullivan says David Seymour’s ACT Party has gone furthest of the coalition parties in trying to diminish Māori-based policies or programmes.

Photo: Facebook

Williams stressed that the protection of Māori authority over their own affairs was a serious and unbreakable promise.

The plan to abolish the Māori Health Authority is an example.

It was established in 2022 to ensure Māori experts could make decisions about funding and providing Māori primary health services.

This was based on findings by both Waitangi Tribunal and Parliamentary select committee inquiries that health policies were failing Māori – partly because there was no sufficient mechanism for Māori to systematically contribute to decisions about services and delivery.

Health services will remain universally available. But it’s not clear they are intended to work equally well for everybody, given the government has provided no alternative to address the policy void the Māori Health Authority was intended to fill.

In other words, there’s no space for specific Māori leadership in making decisions about what works and why, and what should be funded as Māori primary health services. Māori culture won’t count in decision making.

Diminishing that cultural perspective means democratic equality is, in effect, conditional on not bringing a Māori perspective to public life.

Equality means every citizen

should expect a policy to work for them as well is it works for anybody else. The Treaty may help achieve that. But without it, there may be a gap between the language of equality and the policy intent.

For example, the government plans to repeal the Treaty section of the law governing Oranga Tamariki, the state’s child care and protection agency. This section says the Treaty requires Oranga Tamariki to recognise the cultural backgrounds of Māori children in its care.

Oranga Tamariki must also recognise it’s also the job of Māori families, iwi, hapu and other agencies to support Māori children who need care and protection.

There’s nothing in this section to support ACT’s election campaign statement that the previous government’s Treaty policies contributed to an “unequal society [where] there are two types of New Zealanders.

Tangata Whenua, who are here by right, and Tangata Tiriti, who are lucky to be here”.

This section says no more than that Māori people should expect state care and protection policies to work for them. Yet it is the only section of any legislation the government is explicitly committed to repealing.

To avoid doubt, and affirm the substantive equality of all people, the government could simply replace references to the Treaty with the words: “This Act will be applied to work equally well for Māori as for all other citizens.”

After all, if this is not the intent of any law, then equality per se is not its intent either.

ACT’s second proposed principle states that “all political authority comes from the people”.

But as I argue in my recent book Sharing the Sovereign, that means all people must be able to express that authority in ways that are personally meaningful.

People’s actual experience of the democratic system must give them reasons to believe it works as well for them as for anyone else. Those reasons cannot arise – for anyone – in a cultural void.

We all think and reason about what governments should do, and what they should leave for others, through a cultural lens. If some people may only participate in public life through a cultural lens someone else has imposed, then they are not among the people from whom “all political authority comes”. – This article first appeared on The Conversation.

Got a view on some aspect of farming you would like to get across? We offer readers the chance to have their say.

Contact us and have yours. farmers.weekly@agrihq.co.nz Phone 06 323 1519

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12 Opinion

12

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

Opinion

Sectoral harmony bid is music to my ears Alternative view

Alan Emerson

Semi-retired Wairarapa farmer and businessman: dath.emerson@gmail.com

I

WAS really pleased to see the front page of last week’s Farmers Weekly under the heading “Sector leaders seek harmony”.

The article went on to say that Federated Farmers and Groundswell are working together to “create a single voice to speak on behalf of the sector”.

That’s hugely positive.

Both organisations punch well above their weight and it is a tribute to both that egos are secondary to progress.

Federated Farmers is committed to representing farmers’ interests over district and regional council plans. Without that, many of us would have major issues just being able to farm.

In addition it punches well above its weight on the political

front. The coalition government’s support of the 12 demands Feds made going into the election is witness to that.

I also have considerable respect for Groundswell. When the sector was being sold down the river with He Eke Waka Noa (HWEN), Groundswell stepped up fearlessly and decisively.

I don’t believe either DairyNZ or Beef + Lamb New Zealand (BLNZ) was truly representing farmers, certainly over the HWEN debacle, and if it wasn’t for Groundswell we’d have been up a creek without the proverbial paddle.

Further, both Feds and Groundswell are totally transparent.

Prior to the last election we had several what I would describe as shady agricultural groups advising the government out of the public eye and grassroots farmer scrutiny.

That won’t happen with a Feds, Groundswell team.

I also rate Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford and Groundswell co-founder Bryce McKenzie.

Talking to Bryce, his aim is, simply, to create a strong voice for agriculture. He wants to encourage all agricultural bodies to come together and work together.

“In essence we’re wanting to get

I’d suggest observers buckle their seat belts. It will be a fast ride as they won’t be wasting time.

Federated Farmers to negotiate on behalf of all farmers. At the end of the day we are all farmers, we want to do the best for all agriculture.

We consider Federated Farmers a more independent organisation,” he said.

“Feds live and die on their membership”.

From here there will be further meetings and a plan developed.

“We’re going to have some opposition, but we are determined to build Team Ag. It will be great for the sector if people approach it with an open mind,” he said.

Knowing the way McKenzie, fellow Groundswell co-founder Laurie Paterson, and Langford and his board work, I’d suggest observers buckle their seat belts. It will be a fast ride as they won’t be wasting time.

The original suggestion to form a pan-industry body came about 25 years ago from John Acland, who was then chair of the now defunct Meat Board. John suggested the primary industry organisations come together to form a “Green Table” so the sector could speak with one voice.

Sadly, egos and agendas got in the way and nothing happened. It is refreshing that now things are finally moving forward. Farmers’ inability to speak with a united voice has meant that we have been able to be divided and conquered, as has happened over the years.

I spoke to John, who is now retired and living in Geraldine.

He welcomed the initiative, saying that farmers have to get together if we are to prosper

REVVING UP: Groundswell is putting its horsepower behind Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford’s drive to build a ‘Team Ag’ to represent the primary sector. in the modern environment.

Of interest to me was that Dairy NZ and BLNZ told Farmers Weekly they would prefer a less formal structure.

What I’d like to see is a formal Team Ag that is representative of all major players in the primary sector.

As well as Feds, Groundswell, BLNZ and Dairy NZ, it would be good to see the Meat Industry Association, the Dairy Companies Association, Young Farmers, Rural Women, the horticultural sector and the science organisations involved.

Being part of a large group wouldn’t prevent any of those sector organisations representing just their members on an issue of importance to them.

What is infinitely more important is having a strong single voice on an issue that is important to agriculture. It is important to remember that the various antifarming groups – and I’d include

most regional councils, various ministries, including Environment, and the Environmental Protection Authority all have an army of spin doctors, inevitably on huge salaries.

Add to that what I’d describe as the lunatic fringe of SAFE and Greenpeace, and it is obvious the sector is under siege.

Langford says he envisages Team Ag as just that, a team. He points out that in a team everyone has a different job to do and they need to do it well for the team to prosper. He doesn’t envisage everyone parroting the same message. It is, he says, “crucial for everyone to play their part”.

I totally agree.

With a united, well-funded single organisation, I believe the sector can survive and prosper. Without it we can’t.

So I’m pleased that Feds and Groundswell have come together and would encourage other groups to get involved.

Risks, rewards ... and the odd dead rat Eating the elephant

Ben Anderson

Ben Anderson lives in central Hawke’s Bay and farms deer, cows and trees. eating.the.elephant.nz@gmail.com In this series, the lads consider New Zealand’s place in the world.

S

HORTLY after re-entering the farming game, someone asked me what I did beforehand. I told him that for the most part I used to help companies manage risk.

That person then rather unkindly pointed out that I must have been

a bit rubbish at it if I decided it was a good idea to buy a farm. I was stung, but I bravely washed my pride down with a second pint.

For a little bit of context, I used to help companies work out how they could operate in highrisk environments, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Danakil Depression in Ethiopia. Both of these places can present massive financial and operational risks for those who choose to operate there.

Conversely, the rewards can also be massive.

The Danakil Depression has one of the world’s largest remaining deposits of potash sitting under its desert floor. The Congo is incredibly rich in highvalue minerals such as lithium, diamonds and gold. The equation for working in these countries is that the benefits must tangibly outweigh the risk. To put it another way, the juice must be worth the squeeze, and then some.

The risk-reward equation is equally relevant to us farmers and the international trading relationships we so heavily depend on. Our industry leaders and government representatives

strive to build relationships with countries we can create stable and mutually beneficial trade agreements with.

These countries would ideally not be economically protectionist, nor resort to economic coercion any time New Zealand wants to clear its throat on human rights or protest about nuclear testing in its back yard.

Unfortunately, idealism has a

habit of giving way to reality at some point, and we will always end up having to swallow the odd dead rat to get a deal worth having. We just have to be confident that there is enough juice in the deal to wash the taste away.

To give you an idea of why this is not always the case, let’s look at our current free trade agreement with China. Since we signed this agreement in 2008, our trading

relationship has grown to the extent that our exports to China are now worth approximately $21.45 billion, the large majority of that comprised of commodities such as dairy, meat and wood.

This all sounds fantastic, but the reality is not as rosy. Our increased focus on the export of raw commodities such as raw logs and milk powder to China has seen a reduction in the number of value-added products leaving our shores.

This has resulted in Harvard University recently ranking the complexity of New Zealand’s economy alongside that of Greece, Brazil and Russia.

No big deal, you might say, but because the complexity of a country’s economy directly correlates with how wealthy it Continued next page

FLUX CAPACITY: The global trade landscape is in a state of flux, says Ben Anderson, with China and the United States locked in a major trade war.

Perhaps more than at any other time, NZ has to reconsider its place in the world and what it wants to achieve.

Opinion

13 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

13

Finding firm ground for methane debate The braided trail

Keith Woodford

MD at AgriFood Systems kbwoodford@gmail.com

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N MY January 15 Farmers Weekly article on methane, criticisms that I made of the GWP*metric, pronounced “GWP-star”, stirred up responses from some of my agricultural friends and colleagues. Many farmers and also important farmer organisations would like to see GWP*used as the methane accounting metric. I received some long emails setting out where they thought I had gone wrong.

My response here is first to emphasise a point I have made many times: a prosperous agriculture is fundamental to New Zealand’s economic future.

Primary industries are what pays for the majority of our imports. So we have to get things right.

My second point is to acknowledge that there are sound arguments why the concept of carbon dioxide equivalence (CO2e), at least as currently used, is seriously flawed. But it is important to focus on proposals that will stand widespread scrutiny, and not live in an echo chamber.

The key argument put forward for GWP* in place of the widely used GWP100 (without the star), is that it accounts more accurately for the warming caused by methane. But the answer is not quite as straightforward as many of my friends think.

If it is just a case of measuring the outgoing radiation that is blocked by new methane emissions, in comparison to outgoing radiation that is blocked by new carbon dioxide emissions, then the existing GWP measures that very well within the limits of known science. However, there is a caveat that the time horizon over which the comparison is undertaken is of fundamental importance.

Conventionally, this has been Continued from previous page

is, it seems we are also becoming progressively poorer. Which is a big deal.

Right now, the global trade landscape is in a state of flux.

China and the United States are locked in a major trade war, the World Trade Organisation has lost its teeth, the Russian invasion of Ukraine shows no sign of abating, and the Israeli/Gaza conflict is

on a 100-year horizon (GWP100), which captures more than 99% of the methane heating units, but captures only a small proportion of long-lived carbon dioxide emissions. So, the GWP100 screws the scrum by ignoring all of the effects of long-lived carbon dioxide that will occur thereafter.

That assumes, of course, that current society has a responsibility to leave behind a liveable climate that goes well beyond 100 years.

My own value judgment is that we would be better to use a 500-year (GWP500) basis for comparisons, thereby recognising the long-lived effects of carbon dioxide. By doing so, we would not be reducing the assessed value of the methane’s radiation-blocking effect, but we would be acknowledging that currently accepted science says that carbon dioxide lasts much more than 100 years. The numbers for GWP500 are set out in the IPCC AR6 document as laid out in my last article.

The opposing perspective of some of my friends is “Ah, but this is just the emissions effect and not the warming.” To which my response is that it all depends on how you measure the warming.

Don’t get taken in by the notion that new methane emissions are benign.

The way I like to explain it is to get people to think of a “methane cloud”. We cannot actually see the cloud, because methane is colourless and has no smell. But there it is, up in the sky, and also all around us. It is a consequence of historical emissions. It is close on three times the size of the global methane cloud 150 years ago, although most of that increase has nothing to do with agriculture.

The currently accepted science is that methane has an atmospheric lifetime of around 12 years, or more precisely 11.8 years as recorded in the IPCC’s AR6 report.

But this does not mean that all the methane disappears over 11.8 years. Rather, it means that half of the radiation-blocking effects occur in the first 11.8 years. It also means that 75% of the radiationblocking effects will occur within 23.6 years, and about 88% will have occurred in the first 35 years.

For those who are mathematically focused, the decay is considered to be a first-order exponential decay function with a consequent long tail. For those who are not mathematically focused, don’t worry. Just accept that only half of the warming effects occur within the first 12 years. spilling over into neighbouring countries.

Overlaying all this drama is an increasing shift away from globalisation and towards trade relationships driven by geostrategic interests, the two big players in this game being the US and China.

We would like to think that this trend will reverse, and that NZ will be able to continue being the Switzerland of the South

The scientists who developed the GWP* equation have not said that new methane emissions are benign. But they have said that by their calculations, which do include some further assumptions, that as long as “global” methane emissions reduce by 0.33% per annum, then by 2050 new emissions would be in balance with the decay of historical emissions. Note that this is on a global basis. Other sources have come up with somewhat higher figures and a clear consensus has yet to emerge.

What the physicists who developed GWP* have not considered is how these concepts could be applied at the country level or at the level of individual businesses. That is not where their expertise lies. Moving from a rugby analogy to a cricket analogy, it is at the country and individual business levels where the wicket gets real sticky.

There is a very nice 2022 exposition developed by authors Rugelj and Schleussner

and published in the journal Environmental Research Letters that illustrates the sticky wicket.

They develop the example of three young farmers, called Abraham, Bethany and Christopher. Each of them has 10 cows and each produces the same amount of milk.

Farmer Abraham inherited his farm and the 10 cows from his grandfather, who had farmed that way for more than 20 years.

Farmer Bethany came from a poor family with no cows but managed to secure a loan to buy 10 cows.

Farmer Christopher inherited both land and 20 cows from his grandfather who had farmed those 20 cows for many years, but Christopher quickly reduced the cow numbers to 10 to fit in with his other activities.

Over the next 20-year period they each produce the same amount of milk from their 10 cows and each farm emits one tonne of methane per year. However, using GWP*, Abraham is assessed as producing 140 tonnes of CO2e over 20 years of farming, whereas Bethany produces 2240t of CO2e and Christopher is assessed as producing a negative 1960t of CO2e.

How is it that all of these farms are assessed differently under GWP* for the next 20 years just because they had different grandfathers? Well, GWP* gives Christopher a huge credit for the decline in his methane cloud relative to his grandfather, whereas poor Bethany has no prior methane cloud on which to call for credits. Abraham has enough methane decay in his cloud to almost balance his ongoing emissions so his assessed liability is very small.

Generalising to the underlying

principle of “grandfathering” as it applies to environmental issues, it refers to situations where actions of a business or country in the past gives rights to the future. It shuts the door on the “Bethanys” of this world and leaves the door wide open for the Christophers to maintain existing behaviours and do so profitably. That notion of “to those who have shall be given” goes very much against the Paris Agreement.

Well, that is enough on GWP* for now, but the issue is not going to go away. I simply say to my farming friends that it is best to fight battles that are winnable.

GWP* provides useful insights as to the global temperature effects of methane taking into account both the warming from the current emissions and the decay from the historical emissions. It can also highlight at the global level that if global warming really is the threat that many consider it to be, then by far the most effort has to be on reducing CO2 rather than methane. But it does not provide a basis for working out how each country and business therein should bear the costs.

So, what are the other arguments that methane decision-makers need to be aware of?

In my opinion, the most interesting new science is a paper published in Nature Geoscience in 2023 demonstrating how current science has largely ignored the absorption by methane of UV energy from the sun.

When the effects of this absorption in the troposphere are included, their modelling indicates, somewhat counterintuitively, that within an atmospheric-systems framework that clouds increase such that less UV rays reach earth. The effect is estimated to reduce the overall radiation-forcing caused by methane by about 30%.

I am not aware of any reporting in the NZ media of this research.

However, the international science community has reacted positively to these findings, while recognising that they need to be confirmed using other models before a high confidence level is placed in the results.

I have said enough for this article, but I still have not got to the end of the story. In particular I have not laid out a path to a future that protects NZ’s primary-industry led economy and does so in a way that will be internationally acceptable. That will be the next article before moving on to issues other than methane.

Pacific, aligning with no one and enjoying the benefits of trade with everyone. An appealing scenario but increasingly hard to pull off.

There is a very clear trend in motion, with Australia’s strengthening trade and defence relationships with the US a recent case in point. Having to “pick a side” is a very real possibility.

Perhaps more than at any other time, NZ has to reconsider its place in the world and what it wants

to achieve. We would be silly to sabotage those trade relationships that are currently keeping us afloat, but we must begin to actively pursue trade relationships that allow us to create and sell value added products without penalty.

Signing FTAs that incentivise the production and sale of raw commodities has done this, but will never be our pathway to economic prosperity.

If globalisation as we know it is reaching for its final breaths, then we are entering a new era of risk. Like those companies operating in the world’s highestrisk environments, we’ll need to get the fundamentals right or risk disaster. Can we really trust our partners? Are we diversified enough to weather adverse events?

Are we stuck in extraction when we should be innovating? How many dead rats is too many?

SO FAR: GWP* does not provide a basis for working out how each country and business therein should bear the costs of emissions, Keith Woodford says.

Now, where does this all fit in within the GWP* effect?

The answer is that when claims are made that further methane emissions will not cause the temperature to further increase, referred to as “no warming”, the claimants are saying that these new emissions will do no more than balance out the ongoing decay of historical emissions.

That notion of ‘to those who have shall be given’ goes very much against the Paris Agreement.

14 People

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

People

When the big C stands for community Lincoln cropping and sheep farmer Liz Morrish has taken everything cancer can throw at her and still come up determined to do as much as she can for others. Annette Scott reports.

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IZ Morrish has a bucket list too long for the time she has been given to live, but that is not holding her back – it’s only fuelling her determination in her battle with cancer.

Farming on the family’s Canterbury cropping farm with her husband John, Morrish was diagnosed with bowel cancer five years ago and just when she thought she was in the clear, there was more unwelcome news.

In December 2022 it was discovered the cancer had metastasized into her lungs, now Stage Four terminal cancer, then a tumour in the groin and the latest into the new year of 2024, a diagnosis of further spread and a tumour on the brain.

“I have had 13 rounds of chemo and all the drugs possible so there are no more options drug-wise.

“I’ve been told three to five months [to live], but it’s not going to be, I have far too much to do and I will fight this until the last breath in my body,” Morrish says.

It’s pretty tough, but so is Morrish.

“I’m not going to waste time lamenting, that’s not going to do me or anyone any good. I just need to get on and do everything I can as I am able.”

Morrish, 68, has lived at

Broadfields, near in Lincoln, all her life on her family’s 157-year-old mixed cropping and sheep farm.

The farming operation, acknowledged in Century Farms for 150 years in 2018, still today mirrors that of its early days, even if the type of crops and farming methods have changed over the years.

The family believes in long-term farming relationships, having supplied the nearby Heinz-Watties factory with processed peas since the factory opened on the outskirts of Christchurch in 1970.

I came up with the idea of a fundraiser to help those who are less fortunate than I am because cancer does not choose those who can afford help and treatment.

Liz Morrish Lincoln farmer As well as the peas, the farming system includes cereal crops, grasses and vegetables for seed.

While the farmland has been added to over time, Liz and John are on the original block, Cranleigh, in partnership with their son Mark, with sixth-

RULES: Liz Morrish, centre, checks the rules for the walking netball cancer fundraising event.

generation grandchildren also living on the farm.

The first irrigation was installed in 1982 with more added in 1990 to become fully irrigated.

“When we first started, 5 tonnes a hectare for wheat was a big yield, now we are disappointed if we are not getting 10t.”

The “big squeeze”, as Morrish refers to the urban sprawl of Rolleston and Lincoln, has put pressure on the family’s desire to stay on the land.

Since the 2010 and 2011 Canterbury earthquakes, the towns of Rolleston and Lincoln have significantly expanded as new subdivisions roll out across the plains.

“We lamb 1200 breeding ewes, we buy in finishing stock, we are cropping farmers and that’s what we want to keep doing. Totally that’s our life.”

Alongside farming, community and Morrish’s love for sport have always played a big part in her life.

She has been a keen netballer “forever”, played tennis and badminton and more recently tried her hand at golf.

“I decided between the two [community and sport] I wanted to do something for the community that I have been a part of all my life.

“Over a couple of wines with the netball girls I came up with the idea of a fundraiser to help those who are less fortunate than I am because cancer does not choose those who can afford help and treatment.”

Two weeks ago, Morrish, close friends and the community pulled together her idea with Lincolnbased Masters netball teams the Lustys and Springlines lining up for a community event in a game of walking netball.

“I am one of the Lustys, we have been rivals and friends for many years,” says Morrish.

“We are all too old to actually play netball so we decided walking netball, which is actually a sport.”

Morrish approached every business in Lincoln and was overwhelmed with the support

CUT: Making the best memories possible is the goal now for Liz Morrish as she cuts the celebratory walking netball cake. for her fundraiser for the Selwyn Cancer Society.

“It’s unbelievable, the response and support has been amazing, just blown me away, I am so humbled.

“The community and the businesses donated so willingly and generously and we had such wonderful prizes for raffles.”

More than $12,000 has been raised and will go to the Selwyn Cancer Society, tagged to help local people in their battles with cancer.

“I know what help is, from family, friends, my netball girls and the community. They are all there for me all the time.

“I can’t imagine what this journey would be without them and this is the little bit I can do to help others.

“The cancer society was behind us with the netball game, the

raffles, entertainment and door sales and even a celebratory netball cake to mark the game.

“It’s all totally, totally blown me away, the good community spirit is so good to be a part of.”

Morrish is this week undergoing surgery to remove part of the brain tumour and then it will be back to her bucket list.

“I have just ticked off the Doubtful Sound overnight trip, kayaking and swimming and done the jet boat on the Shotover in Queenstown. I was hoping to bungy jump but that was going to be unsafe for me.”

Her still-to-do list includes zip lining on the West Coast and a trip to Rarotonga.

“I’m making the most of everything now, there’s no point in sitting at home saying poor me.

“I have to create the best memories I can in the time I have.”

LINEUP: Liz Morrish lines up with Team Lustys for the walking netball cancer fundraising event.

Technology

15 Technology

15

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

Otago orchard launches quick-frozen cherry trials The aim is to find new ways to preserve or use fresh produce to reduce food waste. Craig Page reports.

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CENTRAL Otago orchard is looking to turn a summer delicacy into a year-round treat.

Eden Orchards, in Alexandra, has secured up to $40,000 in funding from the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund for a trial to produce individually quick frozen cherries.

The pilot stems from earlier work led by the Central Otago District Council (CODC) in collaboration with industry, growers, and food manufacturers to make use of more locally grown fruit that would otherwise go to waste.

In 2022 the CODC commissioned a report – Understanding Fruit Loss in Central Otago – that determined about 6155 tonnes of

fruit in the region go to waste each year.

Cameron Bignell, general manager of Eden Juice Limited, said as a result of that report a group of Central Otago growers, processors and interested parties got together to see what impact they could have on reducing those figures.

Every year on average 2207t of Central Otago cherries is discarded or not harvested due to imperfections and this quantity is expected to increase as new plantings reach peak production.

Eden Orchards has been being playing its part in using wasted fruit since 2017, turning processing-grade cherries into juice for the local and export market.

DEMAND: Frozen cherries retain many health benefits of fresh cherries and are growing in popularity for use in smoothies and baking.

The company currently takes processing-grade cherries from 14 of Central Otago’s biggest orchards. This year it will process 800t of cherries into juice, compared to 350t last year.

Bignell said the challenge has been trying to expand the company quickly enough to keep up with the supply of fruit.

So stepping into the frozen cherry trial seemed a natural fit.

“We had talked to other companies that sold frozen New Zealand fruit and there was a demand for frozen cherries but no one was actually doing it.”

Frozen cherries retain many health benefits of fresh cherries and are growing in popularity for use in smoothies and baking. It is a common processing use for surplus fresh cherries elsewhere in the world.

Bignell said as the company is already processing fruit on a large scale, it agreed to a 12-month trial on behalf of the group.

“Most orchards are focusing on their export grade fruit so it’s about how does this process work for them, and for us to source good enough quality cherries in order to get a really high quality frozen product at the end.”

Bignell said the trial is proving labour intensive. Juicing and frozen grade cherries have to be manually sorted and stems removed by hand.

Techniques were also being trailed to de-stone the fruit, while leaving the cherry intact, and successfully freezing the cherry without it browning or losing quality.

“If the trial is successful we may

COLD OPEN: Cameron Bignell with some of the individually quick frozen cherries produced as part of a trial aimed at reducing food waste.

We are getting some really good cherries at the end, but we just need to work out how we get the right equipment to make it cost effective, because it’s not at the moment.

Cameron Bignell Eden Juice invest in a whole lot of machinery to do that work, but we didn’t want to do it until the trial is conducted.

“We are getting some really good cherries at the end, but we just need to work out how we get the right equipment to make it cost

effective, because it’s not at the moment.”

CODC economic development manager Nick Lanham is pleased to see the first pilot up and running.

“Supporting the growth of more commercial processing of waste fruit is great from a sustainability angle as it reduces the amount of fruit wasted, creates additional revenue streams for growers, and generates more economic activity in the district.”

Local grower and project group member Alex Huffadine said it is great to see more innovation happening in fruit waste recovery in the region.

“This ticks so many boxes, minimising waste, adding value and employing locals.”

How useful is social media to farmers?

Farmers are looking for new sources of information as they adapt to changes in climate and policy.

Delwyn Dickey

TECHNOLOGY

Climate change

FARMERS seeking advice on more sustainable farming practices, diversifying on farm and adapting to climate change, are increasingly looking beyond industry organisations to local communityled catchment groups, social media and farming influencers.

These are some of the findings from farmer interviews as part of research by Aimee Blake, for her Master’s in Agricultural Commerce at Lincoln University last year, sponsored by Our Land and Water.

An advocate for youth having a seat at the table of agricultural industry decision making, Blake is a co-founder of youth groups Future Farmers NZ and Girls who Grow.

The lack of an online onestop-shop of relevant, accessible

information for time-strapped farmers is contributing to information overload, Blake said.

The problem is compounded by industry and research groups operating in silos, she said, and leads to farmers sifting through a deluge of often misleading or false information online.

“We have amazing information on things like improving efficiencies in our big industries and production. But strategic, environmental climate change information and conservation information are potential knowledge gaps because of these [silos].”

Seen as a good way for farmers to work together towards a common goal, community-led catchment groups have become increasingly popular in the past 10 years. They have also become a trusted source of information for diversifying on farm, sustainable farming practices, and long-term farm planning.

Unsurprisingly, young digital natives whose parents may once have complained of them being glued to their phones are

more likely to turn to familiar interpersonal social media networks, including agricultural influencers – often in other countries.

These young farmers are also more likely to use artificial intelligence (AI) apps and be interested in new technology.

But there is an increasing amount of misinformation and

disinformation online, with all social media platforms failing to meaningfully police their content.

When misinformation on covid 19 was reported to social media sites during the pandemic, 95% was not removed.

Blake feels teaching digital literacy skills, particularly for older or non-university educated farmers, may be needed.

ON FLEEK FARMING: Aimee Blake conducted research into online resources for farmers as part of her Master’s in Agricultural Commerce at Lincoln University last year, sponsored by Our Land and Water.

She is confident university study instils in most students the critical thinking and cross-referencing skills needed for finding accurate information and evaluating content for truth. But she is less confident others, particularly older farmers online, recognise the pitfalls of social media.

These include platform algorithms that draw users into increasingly extreme and untrustworthy content, or echo chambers where like-minded people reinforce similar views and no new ideas can flourish.

Already making significant inroads in agriculture, AI is also raising concerns over the spread of mis- and disinformation. There are now calls globally for its use to quickly be regulated.

While going online offers farmers a wealth of new and innovative ways to bring their personal values into land management, digital upskilling is needed by many.

Industry groups also need to develop new ways of connecting with farmers – especially the digital natives, said Blake.

FEDERATED 16 Fed Farmers

FARMERS Vol 2 No 4, February 5, 2024

fedfarm.org.nz

Could this be our last shearing generation?

W

hen Pattie O’Boyle sent a photo of her son shearing to family members late last year, she nearly cried at a response from her sibling.

“Let’s hope they are not the last generation of family shearers,” one of Pattie’s sisters commented.

O’Boyle, a Wairarapa sheep and beef farmer, says producing wool has been part of her family since her ancestors arrived in New Zealand in the 1800s.

“All three of our kids have worked with our sheep, their progeny, and the wool that grows on their backs.

Our youngest son is shearing now.

“Wool used to be a highly soughtafter commodity. On a farm like ours, 70% of its income came from wool in its heyday, but now it’s a cost to our business.”

She says a combination of factors are to blame, including “the world getting swindled by the quick quick boys (and girls!) of synthetic nylon fibre” and the failure of the New Zealand wool industry to respond to the threat.

Pattie and husband Tony bought their farm in Tinui, near Castlepoint, about 15 years ago, and she says most of the neighbouring land is now carpeted in pines.

“There’s not much grass left in this little valley – it’s gone into trees very quickly.”

And while shearing as a sport is

enjoying something of a renaissance, with multiple records broken in recent months, the nation’s flock is depleting, she says.

“At the current rate of attrition, our country’s flock could be completely gone by 2050.”

Federated Farmers national meat and wool chair Toby Williams says the future of wool and shearing in New Zealand is “teetering on a knife edge”.

There’s plenty of money being spent on developing products, and on overseas travel, but we’re just not seeing any returns from that.

Toby Williams Federated Farmers meat and wool chair “Is this the last generation of Kiwi shearers? If we don’t make some serious changes over the next few years, it very well could be.

“The price of wool is completely buggered, and if we can’t solve the problem soon there won’t be too many sheep that need shearing.”

He thinks there’ll always be some sheep in New Zealand, but there is a real risk of shearing becoming little more than a cottage industry.

“Here in Gisborne, the number of shearing gangs has reduced, and a

lot of sheep country has gone into pine trees. Nationally, there are more and more farmers turning to selfshedding breeds.

“When I was at high school we had 60 million sheep, and 30 years later we’re down to 20 million – a third of the size. Fewer sheep naturally means fewer shearers.”

Williams has hope that rockbottom wool prices could bounce back, and he points to rising demand for Kiwi wool in countries like the US, but says a radical shift in innovation and marketing is needed.

“We lost the Wool Board in 2003 because the leadership hadn’t been performing for quite some time.

“And when you look at the leaders in our wool industry now, they’re the same people who’ve been there for the past 20 years. I’m not saying they’re not experienced, but we need some fresh thinking.”

The industry has become siloed, with too many people working on their own solutions to resurrect the value of wool, Williams says.

“There’s plenty of money being spent on developing products, and on overseas travel, but we’re just not seeing any returns from that.

“What we really need is a breakthrough like the iPhone. The world didn’t know it needed a touchscreen mobile phone until Steve Jobs stood on that stage in 2007. Now, everyone’s got one in their pocket.”

Let’s put tyre waste behind us.

Regulation is in effect for end-of-life tyres from 1 March 2024.

Find out how Tyrewise is working with businesses and communities across the motu to end tyre waste. www.tyrewise.co.nz

ON HAND: Pattie O’Boyle’s 20-year-old son Daniel, seen here in a woolshed near Martinborough, recently completed his Bachelor of Commerce (Agriculture) but has chosen to go full-time shearing.

Insulation, pillow stuffings and carpets help create value, but they’re not the answer to our wool price woes, he says.

O’Boyle agrees with Williams that the industry needs to become united, with one strong body.

“There are so many people and groups doing different things. Since the wool levy was voted down, wool has struggled without a single organisation.

“We need to come together and work to find solutions.”

Both O’Boyle and Williams feel positively about Wool Impact’s new

‘wool impact navigator’, role, created as a central point to enable more innovation.

“I think that sounds like a good idea – someone we can call up and say what we’re thinking. It’s a person with a name and a face, who I would feel comfortable speaking with as a farmer,” O’Boyle says.

Williams says the innovations are out there, but whether we’ll find them is dependent on the industry acting together – and fast.

“If we can’t do that, then this really could be our last generation of shearers.”

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Federated Farmers

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fedfarm.org.nz – February 5, 2024

Top chef to farmers: ‘It’s a pleasure to serve your products’

A

ward-winning chef Mat McLean has cooked in some of the best restaurants in the world, with some of the finest ingredients, but he says nothing comes close to Kiwi produce.

McLean’s career has taken him from humble roots in the Waikato to Michelin-starred restaurants in London, the top kitchens in Melbourne, and back home again.

His Hamilton restaurant, Palate, is widely regarded as one of the best in the country.

“Cooking in those UK restaurants, there was just no seasonality at that time. Provenance wasn’t a thing and chefs just cooked whatever they wanted to cook,” McLean says.

“The Australian restaurants were a lot more in tune with their suppliers and their farmers, and in New Zealand we’re probably taking that one step further and growing quite deep connections.

“We’re lucky in this country that we can get produce pulled straight out of the soil, or meat that’s just finished grazing. It really is paddock to plate.”

McLean says he notices the seasonality in beef.

“When a region has good rain and plenty of grass is growing, the marbling of the meat is so much better. It’s amazing to cook with and my customers can taste it.

“It doesn’t matter how good you are as a cook, it’s about the product you start with. I can’t make an average steak great; it has to be great to start with. I try to source amazing products and then do as little as possible to it.”

As one of Beef + Lamb’s ambassador chefs, McLean’s enjoyed opportunities to cook in paddocks and woolsheds across the country.

“I’ve been through the meat works, and I’ve even dabbled in farming my own cattle – which only made me appreciate farmers’ craft even more.

“A farmer’s passion shines through on the plate. Guys like Richard Redmayne from Coastal Lamb are doing amazing things, Middlehurst Station Lamb is some of the best I’ve ever tried, and when I’m using Greenstone Creek beef, I feel like I’m completely spoiled.”

McLean says he wouldn’t serve Australian beef in his restaurant.

“I never have, and I never will.

That would just be a total slap in the face for our farmers. Even when the Australians flood the market with cheap beef, I just never touch it out of principle. It wouldn’t feel right.”

Farmers need to be rewarded for the quality of their meat. Grading systems work, but they deserve a real premium. It would be good for the processors to reward high marbling and encourage farmers to aim for it. There’s a huge market out there for that kind of product – people want it.

Mat McLean Chef When asked what the difference is, Mclean says it’s “plain to see on the plate – taste, tenderness, and probably the nutritional quality too.

“The French talk about ‘terroir’, which is where you can taste the geographic location of produce from the region it’s been grown in, the

weather, and the nutrients it draws from the soil.

“It’s the same with New Zealand meat. Different farming practices, regions and soils all bring about a different flavour. What the animals have been eating, the environment they’ve come from, the welfare standards – you can taste it. That’s what makes our meat unique to us.”

Are Kiwi farmers good at telling their story?

“No, but show me an artisan who is,” McLean says. “Often when people are great at what they do, they keep their nose to the grindstone. They don’t always lift their head up to look outwards.”

McLean is adamant that farmers who truly care for their stock and their environment should be rewarded with a higher price.

“Farmers need to be rewarded for the quality of their meat. Grading systems work, but they deserve a real premium. It would be good for the processors to reward high marbling and encourage farmers to aim for it. There’s a huge market out there for that kind of product – people want it.

“They also need to be keeping track of where their products are coming from. Traceability is what the food servicing industry really wants.”

And while McLean is loyal to Kiwigrown produce, he likes to keep things even closer to home.

“For me, that means predominantly sourcing my grassfed beef from the Waikato. I might look further afield for specialty stuff, but the closer the better.

“I want to be able to tell a story: ‘A farmer from down the road raised this beef, this is how they farmed it, and why I love what they’re doing’.

That closes the loop from farm to

VALUE: Top chef Mat McLean says farmers who truly care for their stock and their environment should be rewarded with a higher price. restaurant and brings us all closer together.”

When asked if he has anything he’d like to say to New Zealand farmers, McLean was quick to offer simple message: “Thank you for what you do. It’s a pleasure to serve your products to my customers,” he says.

“Without the farmers out there working hard to progressively improve their stock in the paddock, we couldn’t improve what we’re

doing in the kitchen. Our businesses go hand in hand, and that’s very much the New Zealand food story.”

Mat’s restaurant, Palate, will be reopening in a new Hamilton location in February 2024.

He’ll be cooking New Zealand beef and lamb over native timber on an asado grill.

“This is all about getting back to basics: great meat cooked over fire and embers, showcasing the best of New Zealand’s produce.”

National Open Farm Day Sunday 10 March, 2024 Reconnecting Kiwis with our land, food and farmers. One open day at a time.

Host an open farm day

OUR LAND AND WATER WA

Toitū te Whenua, Toiora te Wai

Agriculture & Investment Services Ministry for Primary Industries Manatū Ahu Matua

Sign-up to host at WWW.OPENFARMS.CO.NZ

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February 5, 2024 – fedfarm.org.nz

Federated Farmers

Centenarian’s devotion to farming

T

urning 100 years old is impressive enough, but Grace Martin can also boast to holding one of the longest Federated Farmers memberships in the country.

When Grace became a centenarian in late January, surrounded by family in Nelson, she reflected on a life deeply connected to farming and rural New Zealand.

“I always loved living in a rural community and supporting my husband on the farm,” Grace says.

“Times were different back then – women very much had a supporting role on the farm. We all pitched in and worked together, helping each other and getting through the challenges of rural life side by side.”

Raised a “city girl” in Dunedin, Grace met future husband Rupert on a blind date.

Rupert was working on a dairy farm in Boggyburn, Southland, and

their marriage in 1951 thrust Grace into rural life.

She quickly joined the Women’s Division Federated Farmers (WDFF), which was named the Women’s Division of the Farmers’ Union until 1947 and is now Rural Women New Zealand.

“I was taken along to my first meeting by the lady who owned the farm we were working on,” Grace says.

The WDFF was set up in 1925 by a group of farmers’ wives to improve conditions for rural women and children, and to encourage the cooperation of women within farming organisations.

“Being from the city, I was used to always being around friends and I wanted to have that in the farming community too,” Grace says.

“We’d meet up and go to a hall or someone’s home and we’d share stories and concerns. It was very

FAMILY AFFAIR: Grace Martin and son Allan at her 100th birthday.

important for farming wives to support each other.”

When she and Rubert got married, they visited Nelson on honeymoon and Rubert promised they’d move there one day.

True to his word, Rupert made Nelson their home a decade later when he landed a job managing a 3000-acre farm in Redwoods Valley, owned by Sir Jack Newman’s company, Transport Nelson Ltd. To start with, ‘managing’ the farm meant clearing the entire block of gorse, before it could be populated with Romney and Hereford.

Grace got involved in the Redwoods Valley WDFF, later serving as president, and was made a life member – meaning she’s been a member of Federated Farmers for 73 years.

“She’s always been involved and is all about service to her community.

She’s also a proud rural woman,” son Allan says.

“Mum was a great supporter of dad. She wasn’t involved in the farm physically; her role was making sure the home ran smoothly and raising her children. She saw her primary role as a mum and a wife. Dad would be working from 6am till 6pm, and mum took care of the home.

“I remember seeing dad walking the floor in the evenings, under pressure, and mum backed him 100% and believed in him.”

Allan says his mum was a great cook and her food was a highlight for anyone who came through the front gate.

“Whoever came to the farm was always fed very well, no matter who you were.

“On the Redwoods farm, mum would always give the shearers a beautiful morning and afternoon tea of scones and pikelets, and a cooked lunch every day.

“It was hard to get shearers out there in those days, but we had these four guys who’d come back year after year and they said it was because of mum’s cooking.”

When the Transport Nelson farm

WATCHING ON: Even at 100, Grace Martin says she still takes an interest in farming, particularly when it comes to the changing role of women on the farm. was eventually sold, Grace and Rupert moved onto 10 acres nearby, where they bred black and coloured sheep, and reared calves.

They also ran a farm shop built off the end of their shearing shed, which did a great trade with locals and tourists. Their wool was exported all over the world.

Grace says she still takes an interest in farming, particularly when it comes to the changing role of women on the farm.

“I enjoy seeing the young women out there working on farms doing

the physical work – and raising their families on the land at the same time. It’s very impressive what they’re doing.

“It’s very different to how it was for my generation, but it’s nice to see what they’re able to do.

“The role on the farm might have changed, but I can see the values are still the same.”

And what’s the secret to a long life?

“Make a big wish when you’re young and then keep to it. Mine was to live a good, happy life – and I have.”

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Federated Farmers

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fedfarm.org.nz – February 5, 2024

Grapes putting the squeeze on farming

W

hen Federated Farmers Marlborough president Evan White first moved to the Wairau Valley, he never imagined his farm would one day be nestled between vineyards.

For the last 16 years his family partnership has run up to 800 cows on their 480ha property, pumping water directly from the Wairau River for irrigation and relying on a combination of crops, growing maize on farm and brought in feed when water restrictions kick in.

But times are changing in Marlborough, and so too are the region’s landscapes, as poor meat and wool returns coincide with international demand for New Zealand wine.

Grapes, rather than cattle, now cover much of the region’s ranges and valleys.

In recent years Delegat wines purchased 500ha on the White’s

boundary for conversion and have invested millions in water storage and frost fans.

Now the Whites have sold their land to a viticultural company themselves and are seeing out the dairy season before shifting back to the original family farm at Spring Creek near Blenheim.

“Fifty years ago, Daniel le Brun, the pioneer of Méthode Traditionelle in New Zealand, said that one day all of the Wairau Valley will be in grapes; everyone laughed at him,” White says.

“Well, they’re not laughing now.

There’s very little prime land suitable for grapes left along the Wairau valley – in fact, some of the bigger players are now pushing out to quite wet land in Koromiko and Okaramio towards Havelock .

“The rise of Marlborough viticulture has surprised a lot of people who were sceptical about

ENDURING: Evan White was skeptical of the wine industry in the early days but now says viticulture brings much-needed diversity to Marlborough.

where grapes could successfully be grown in New Zealand, and I’ve got to put my hand up and say I’m one of them.

“I’ve been proven wrong with grapes time and time again. I just thought ‘here’s another fad’. We’ve seen the rise of kiwifruit, then olives, alpacas, even angora goats for a while – but it looks like the vineyards are here to stay.”

The numbers don’t lie, and Marlborough’s land use trends are clear: In 1996 about 5000ha of the province was in viticulture. By 2018 grape vines had spread to 30,000ha.

In the decade to 2018, pastoral land use dropped by more than 100,000ha to 335,000ha.

Of course, not all of that has been put into grapes. Some has been retired or planted in natives. Pine nuts are doing well and quite large areas of hill are now in pine trees.

Despite the rapid changes to the landscape and community, White doesn’t believe pastoral farmers resent the spread of vineyards in the region.

“Sheep, beef, and dairy all remain a very important part of the Marlborough economy,” he says.

“Some farmers have converted their entire properties, but others have diversified their businesses and put blocks in vines, either developing it themselves, or leasing their land to others.

“There’s no denying the grapes have shielded us from some of the economic storms. Even in the dry years, as long as the grapes go well, Marlborough seems to keep going okay.

“On marginal sheep, beef and cropping land, I have to admit green vines in a dry Marlborough summer don’t look too bad at all.”

Dry conditions are a significant challenge for the Marlborough region with NIWA’s soil moisture maps for mid-January showing the

H2GO: Evan White says access to regular and reliable water is going to be the key to Marlborough’s future prosperity.” region to have some of the most significant moisture deficits in the country.

“That climate is great for growing grapes, but water storage has been an essential ingredient in the region’s success,” White says.

I’ve been proven wrong with grapes time and time again. I just thought ‘here’s another fad’. We’ve seen the rise of kiwifruit, then olives, alpacas, even angora goats for a while – but it looks like the vineyards are here to stay.

“Access to regular and reliable water is going to be the key to Marlborough’s future prosperity – and that’s for farmers too.”

With warnings that climate change will make the east coast of both islands even dryer, White believes capturing excess water while its plentiful in winter to use

productively in dry summers is the way of the future.

He believes plenty of other Marlborough landowners want better water security but consider the current planning hurdles and cost prohibitive.

“There have been some great irrigation schemes in the past – yes, some were Government funded and we’re unlikely to see that again – that changed some dry areas to green productive farmland,” he says.

“Surely, for resilience and production options, the future is in water storage. Even better if water storage and hydro-generation could work together where possible.”

Those landowners will surely be encouraged that the new Government has signalled a renewed interest in water storage.

National’s coalition agreement with New Zealand First includes a commitment to cut red tape and regulatory blocks on irrigation, water storage, managed aquifer recharge and flood protection schemes.

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS. DAIRY

MEAT AND WOOL

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20 Real Estate

Secure your space in the upcoming Bayleys’ Country portfolio, New Zealand’s multi-channel campaign showcasing the latest rural and lifestyle properties for sale.

2024

Get in front of motivated buyers and have a well-seasoned nationwide team of rural agents put in the hard yards for you. This year marks 25 years of Country and 25 years of delivering greater audience reach, more qualified and engaged buyers, and ultimately more sales—all within a highly cost-effective model.

We’re New Zealand’s #1 rural real estate brand – so invest in Country to get the best result for the sale of your property.

Call 0800 BAYLEYS or visit bayleys.co.nz/country LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH PROPERTY FOR 25 YEARS Bayleys’ Country is New Zealand’s premier rural property portfolio showcasing quality farms, horticulture, viticulture, forestry and lifestyle properties for sale throughout New Zealand. This year marks 25 years of Country and 25 years of delivering greater audience reach, more qualified and engaged buyers, and ultimately more sales—all within a highly cost-effective model.

Be part of Bayleys’ Country campaign, New Zealand’s leading rural property portfolio and we will deliver an altogether better result.

bayleys.co.nz/country

Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services

21

Boundary lines are indicative only

Waihi 729 Waihi Whangamata Road

Entry level dairy farm in prime location

77 ha

Here is an opportunity to purchase a 77-hectare (more or less), dairy farm with excellent free draining soils. The farm is divided into 66 paddocks which are easily accessed via a central race system. Key infrastructure includes a tidy 16 ASHB shed with in shed feeding system, an effluent solution with clay lined pond and travelling irrigator complying with regional council requirements, multiple shedding options centrally located. Located minutes from Waihi township, all amenities are nearby with schooling for all ages in town. In the local area, it’s an easy drive to many recreational activities from sandy beaches to bush walks and not too much further you can find major centres like Tauranga and Hamilton. Good farm, good location. Our owners will sell. Pick up the phone and come have a look. Serious sellers looking for serious buyers.

Auction (unless sold prior) 11am, Thu 7 Mar 2024 96 Ulster Street, Hamilton View 11am-12pm Wed 7 Feb & Tue 13 Feb or by appointment Karl Davis 0508 83 83 83 karl.davis@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/2315232

Otorohanga 117 Mangamahoe Road, 333 Kawhia Road, 132 Ouruwhero Road, 5 & 6 Redland Road The liquidation of an incomplete milk processing project presents a unique opportunity for an astute buyer to capitalise on the substantial investment already made in acquiring the land, resource consents, and all IP necessary to develop and operate a dairy factory.

The land assets comprise of several properties located on the periphery of Otorohanga township, including the proposed processing plant site of 17.8 ha bounding the Waipa River, a 142 ha dairy farm and a 155 ha finishing farm (totalling 297 ha approx.) and a 1.8 ha vacant lifestyle lot with expansive rural views and significant ground take water consents. The farms are operated subject to long term market rate leases.

Parties are encouraged to assess all options to utilise the existing consents and investment opportunities. Offers invited for the entire portfolio, or alternatively as separate land holdings.

Tender Closing 2pm, Mon 11 Mar 2024 30 Gaunt Street, Auckland.

View by appointment Dave Peacocke 027 473 2382 dave.peacocke@bayleys.co.nz Duncan Ross 021 663 567 duncan.ross@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008 BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LTD, AUCKLAND CENTRAL, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/1696961

bayleys.co.nz

22

Phillip & Phil Rerewhakaaitu 366 Yankee Road Open Day

Entry level dairy farm or support unit

4

Immaculately presented 69.35 ha first farm or support unit opportunity located in the southeastern corner of the renowned Rerewhakaaitu district.

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Tender closes 12.00pm, Wed 14th Feb, 2024 View Wed 7 Feb 12.30 - 2.00pm Web pb.co.nz/WTR176032

This property is flat to rolling in contour with a small area of steeper sidlings. Housing is well catered for by four bedroom home set within a mature garden environment. Farm infrastructure includes an immaculately 16 ASHB shed with in-shed feeding along with various other implement and calf sheds plus a lined effluent pond that is consented until 2032. The farm is subdivided into 30 paddocks and is milking 150+/- cows on a OAD system with a production average of 56,000 kgMS. This this is a very appealing entry-level property that will be hotly contested.

Phillip Berry M 027 478 8892

E phillip.berry@pb.co.nz

Phil Badger M 027 357 5704

E phil.badger@pb.co.nz

Reporoa 393 Forest Road Tender

One man band dairy unit - Reporoa Exceptionally tidy 77.46 ha seasonal supply dairy farm located in the heart of Reporoa.

This property is flat to gently rolling in contour. Housing is well catered for by an immaculately presented, 2007 built four bedroom plus office, two bathroom, brick, and concrete tile clad home set on an elevated position with views of the entire property.

Farm infrastructure includes a 22 ASHB shed, complete with cup removers, in-shed feeding along with various other implement and calf sheds. The farm is subdivided into approximately 56 paddocks that are connected by a 1.8 km central race system. Three year average production sits at 85,000 kgMS. Soil type is the easily managed Taupo Ash.

Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 | pb.co.nz

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Tender closes 12.00pm, Fri 2nd Feb, 2024 View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/WTR173876

Phillip Berry M 027 478 8892

E phillip.berry@pb.co.nz

Phil Badger M 027 357 5704

E phil.badger@pb.co.nz Proud to be here

23

Te Mapara 266 Tikitiki Road

Ashburton 1847 Grahams Road Deadline Sale

Deadline Sale

Treasure on Tikitiki

343.09 ha - Scale with efficiency

This 17.81 ha property has fantastic contour and is an ideal small Deadline Sale closes Thursday 22nd February, 2024 at 11.00am, (unless farm or larger lifestyle option. The property stretches from the sold prior) house at the front and rises to easy rolling hills that are suitable for View By appointment hay and silage. At the rear of the property there are some medium Web pb.co.nz/TUR175626

The bones of this property are there, efficiency is there, it now just needs some fresh hands.

hills with scattered native bush. The current owners fatten cattle but it could be used for planting maize and other crops. The property is well supported with its own water bore that is reticulated to troughs. Great shade and shelter are offered to stock by established trees. The four bedroom plus sunroom home is in a lovely position with plenty of sun and looks north and has views of the surrounding area.

With modern infrastructure and further additions being made as late as 2018 the farm is there and waiting for a new owner to take to the next level.

Deadline Sale closes Wednesday 28th February, 2024 at 12.00pm, (unless sold prior), Property Brokers Ashburton View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/AR173581

Having feed and loafing pads mitigates some of the ongoing environmental challenges and puts the farm ahead of the curve.

Katie Walker M 027 757 7477

Come and view a dairy farm with location, scale and efficiency at its heart.

Jason Rickard M 027 245 8495

Pourerere Beach 3360 Pourerere Road Auction

Pourerere Station 463 ha (STS) Situated 33 km east of Waipawa, Pourerere Beach, on the boundary offers acres of white sand and boat launching through a natural reef. The medium/steep contour is complemented by approx 70 ha of Alluvial flats that have a history of hanging on in the summer, producing excellent stock. A feature of the property is a natural spring watering the flats and homestead. This supply is backed up by dams and springs. Improvements include a two story, three bedroom homestead set amongst large specimen trees, five stand woolshed and numerous auxiliary farm sheds.

Another notable feature is the well planted wetland area offering ample duck shooting opportunities. Some deferred farm maintenance may be required but Pourerere Station presents an opportunity for the discerning purchaser to add their own touches and create their own piece of history. This property is presently leased and is utilized as a breeding and finishing block for both sheep and cattle. Bulls are also run for rodeo circuit.

Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 | pb.co.nz

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Auction 2.00pm, Wed 6th Mar, 2024, Centralines, Coughlan Road, Waipukurau View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/WR175755

Pat Portas M 027 447 0612

E patp@pb.co.nz

Sam McNair M 027 264 0002

E sam.mcnair@pb.co.nz Proud to be here

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate – February 5, 2024

Real Estate

RURAL | LIFESTYLE | RESIDENTIAL

NEW LISTING

MAPIU, WAITOMO 1930 State Highway 4 Kura Kura Farms Partnership - 504 hectares Located 31km south of Te Kuiti on State Highway 4 is this long established self-contained dairy unit with the added bonus of a large beef finishing unit. The dairy platform is 210 hectares, with 230 hectares dairy support/beef and the balance is bush. Three dwellings, 38 ASHB, five bay implement shed, 12 bay calf shed, excellent water and fertiliser history. Cattle wintered 2023 – 169 Beef R1 cattle, 122 Beef R2 cattle, 102 Dairy R1 heifers, 97 Dairy R2 heifers, 370 Dairy MA cows. The contour covers multiple options to either carry on milking or have an extensive cattle finishing property.

$6.6M

Plus GST (if any)

VIEW 10.00-12.00pm

Wed 14, 21 & 28 February

Peter Wylie M 027 473 5855 E pwylie@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz/TEK38927 PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

Helping grow the country

Real Estate

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate – February 5, 2024

W A I H E K E C O A S TA L L I F E S T Y L E F O R S A L E - 306B Cowes Bay Road | $6,950,000 | nzsothebysrealty.com/WAI11537

A gated coastal lifestyle offering of 5.93 ha (more or less) with access to all tide boat launching, a 49 metre jetty and helipad.

Pakatoa, Rotoroa and Ponui islands punctuate your horizon and beckon with the best fishing spots within just a few minutes of launching. An aquatic recreational playground to cater for all generations.

Pasture, Pohutukawa and a stand of ancient covenanted native forest. An opportunity to downsize to a coastal rural property but with all the convenience to Auckland that Waiheke offers. Two award winning architects and master builder are available for onsite consultation.

Waiheke sits within a 35 minute ferry ride to Auckland CBD yet this outstanding property is a whole world away.

This could be your literal sea change. The scale and scope can only be fully comprehended upon arrival, a legacy land to sea connection rarely ever offered.

For Sale $6,950,000.

LISA HOPEWELL

+64 27 451 8887 lisa.hopewell@nzsir.com

Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. NZSIR Waiheke and Gulf Islands Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

Advertise with us

Reach every farmer in New Zealand every week Call 0800 85 25 80 Email realestate@agrihq.co.nz

PENE MILNE

+64 21 919 940 pene.milne@nzsir.com

26 Sthn FDays

26

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

Southern Field Days

EARLY BIRDS: Southern Field Days organising committee chair Steve Henderson says numbers were boosted by exhibitors committing to this year’s field days when the 2022 event was cancelled.

Southern Field Days back in the saddle near Gore Neal Wallace

NEWS

I

Field days

T HAS been four years between drinks but organising this year’s Southern Field Days near Gore has proven largely seamless.

The 2022 event was cancelled due to covid, making it four years since the Waimumu site west of Gore was inundated with machinery, tents and people.

Organising committee chair Steve Henderson says when planning started a year ago for this year’s event, from February 14-16, committee members turned on their auto-pilots and things quickly started to happen.

It helped that just three of the 22 committee members were new to the role.

“There is so much knowledge,” he said.

Southern Field Days alternates between Southland and

Canterbury and the themes for this year’s event are getting back on track and making it bigger and better.

“The momentum was lost and our theme for these field days is to run a good event and get back to where we were.”

There will be 760 exhibitors on site, about 60 more than the last event in 2020, with Henderson saying numbers were aided by exhibitors committing to this year’s field days when the 2022 event was cancelled.

Features this year include a tractor pull, fencing competitions and speed shearing.

A new innovation is the launch of National Lamb Day on the Thursday by the AgProud Charity, which will provide a free barbeque.

Henderson said another innovation this year is the launch of an app so visitors can more easily find their way around the site.

Ag Proud wants a tastier National Lamb Day Neal Wallace

NEWS

Field days HIGH TECH: Steve Henderson said an innovation for this year’s Southern Field Days is the launch of an app so visitors can more easily find their way around the site.

By typing in key words for an exhibitor or service, the app will guide them to that site.

Southern Field Days programme Wednesday, February 14 8.30am: Tractor pull briefing (Times may vary due to the weather. Listen to the PA) 9am: Tractor pull heats 9am: Farm Innovation Awards – judging begins 11am: Chair and mayoral welcome in front of office Thursday, February 15 8.30am: Tractor pull briefing

(Times may vary due to the weather. Listen to the PA) 8.30am: NZFC South Island doubles fencing competition (judges briefing) demonstration area. South Islands leading fencers are lining up to compete in this national level fencing competition 9am: Tractor pull heats 11:30am: Prize giving for kids colouring-in competition out the front of the office

AND PAV FOR PUD: Australia is good at celebrating the place of lamb on the national menu, and NZ could be even better at it, says the Ag Proud charity.

Friday, February 16 12pm: Presentations in front of the Office. Farm Innovation Awards; Gallagher Group Best Site Award; Bowmar Trophy Best Machinery Site Award 1pm: Tractor pull final (approximate, listen to the PA) 2:30pm: Speedshear (at the MLT Bar)

DRIVING FORCE: The tractor pull is one of the key events at the Southern Field Days.

WHATEVER Australia does, surely New Zealand can do better ...

That is part of the thinking of the Ag Proud charity, which has initiated a high-profile celebration of National Lamb Day around the anniversary of the day in 1882 – February 15 – when NZ’s first shipment of frozen meat left Port Chalmers for London on board the Dunedin.

The event will be marked over three days, February 13-15, at Parliament, Southern Field Days near Gore and with free barbeques in NZ’s main urban centres.

Ag Proud chair Jon Pemberton said Australia has embraced its National Lamb Day, and he hopes NZ will also adopt it as an acknowledgment of agriculture’s 140-year contribution to the economy.

“I think people are ready for a positive message and for inclusiveness,” Pemberton said.

Acknowledging National Lamb Day in NZ has previously been low key and centred on May 24, the date the Dunedin arrived in London.

Ag Proud’s programme starts on February 13 with a lunch for politicians in Parliament organised by the NZ First Member of Parliament, Associate Agriculture Minister and South Otago sheep farmer Mark Patterson, with support from Beef + Lamb NZ.

The next day, at the Southern Field Days, Ag Proud with support from meat companies and BLNZ, will host a free public barbeque.

Pemberton said several noted chefs, including Ethan Flack, a Southland-born and -bred chef who has worked in Michelin star restaurants around the world and recently returned to live in Southland, will be on the stand talking to people about lamb.

The next day, February 15, Ag Proud volunteers will host barbeques in the main centres, providing free food and an opportunity for farmers to meet and have a conversation with urban people.

“It will be exciting to link-up with people.”

Pemberton said like the pioneers who arranged the original frozen meat shipment, the sheep industry faces challenges, in this case low meat prices.

“We have challenges in front of us which may seem insurmountable, but as with the original shipment, we are reminded that there are solutions.”

Lifting the profile of lamb has another function.

“It will also remind all NZers that agriculture has played a large role in building NZ and will continue to do so going forward and we should celebrate that.”

National Lamb Day is marked in Australia on January 26 and one of the annual features is a high-profile advertising campaign.

27

Southern Field Days

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

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27

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Marketplace

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

MOWER MASTER TOWABLE MOWERS

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Registration Fee $100.00/person — includes a registration pack and dinner on Saturday night.

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Farmote Limited (In Receivership) (t/a Farmote Systems) is a Christchurch based business which specialises in pasture monitoring that combines satellite-based multispectral technology with on-ground Motes to take the guesswork out of pasture and grazing management. See: farmote.com The Company was placed into receivership on 15 January 2024 and the receivers are now looking for expressions of interest in the sale of the business and assets.

To receive the Information Memorandum, please contact Alice Hogan by email at: alice.b.hogan@pwc.com.

Expressions of interest are requested by 14 February 2024.

Pigs tearing up your pasture? Goats and Deer eating your grass and destroying your plantings?

HIGH COUNTRY JOURNEYS

4X4 TAGALONG TOURS Bring your own 4X4 on a guided tour to discover more of the South Island.

Tour 1: Molesworth Station, St James, Mailings Pass & Rainbow Stations

Drive from station to station and experience the majestic South Island High Country Limited spaces available for 2024 • South Island High Country Grand Slam Self drive your own 4WD from Blenheim to Cardrona in Central Otago through a network of high country tracks including Molesworth on this 7 day 8 night tour.

• The Great Explorer Self drive from Lake Ohau to Cardrona through the majestic high country of the Mackenzie Basin, Central Otago and Northern Southland with this 5 day 6 night tour.

Tour: 2 D’Urville Island and Marlborough Farms Tour

Dates: March 19-23

To advertise phone Julie 027 705 7181

These Tours are; Fully guided with radio contact; Fully catered and stay in very comfortable lodge and farmstays; Made up of smaller tour groups (6-9 vehicles) and travel at a quieter pace.

For further information contact: John Mulholland RD1, RANFURLY Phone 03 444 9703 • Mobile 027 228 8152 lnfo@highcountryjourneys.co.nz www.highcountryjourneys.co.nz

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Tour 3: North Otago Tag-along Tour

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Dates: April 24-28

Find primary sector vacancies at: farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz

NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR 2025

Dates: March 11-14, March 25-28, April 8-11, April 22-25, limited places available on these dates.

Call or email Cam 027 739 6413 or gonebush@live.com www.kfcl.co.nz LK0117721©

BUSINESS FOR SALE Pasture Management for Dairy and Pastoral Farms

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28

Ph: 0274 351 955 E: info@southislandtoursnz.com • www.southislandtoursnz.com

Adventures - 4WD Tours

Lone Star Farms is actively looking for land suitable for a Sheep Breeding and Finishing Operation.

info@nzadventures.co.nz Ph: 03 218 8569, 027 550 6727 or 027 435 4267

www.nzadventures.co.nz

SCOTTY’S CONTRACTORS

We are looking at all options in terms of Share Farming or leasing.

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Also specialising in flood damage and silt removal.

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NOW BACK AT WORK IN THE HAWKE’S BAY AREA

Contact Scotty to discuss all that needs to be done Ph 0800 27 26 88 • Mobile 027 26 26 27 2 • scottnewman101@gmail.com

Ideally, the property should have reliable rainfall or irrigation and would be of a size that can support at least one labour unit or is in close proximity to our current farming operations.

For a confidential discussion please call Boyd Macdonald on 027 544 4216

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29 MPlace/Livestock

WILTSHIRE RAMS – PURE BRED

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0800 436 566 DOGS FOR SALE 30 DOGS UNDER $995.

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BOOK AN AD. For only $2.30 + gst per word you can book a word only ad in Farmers Weekly Classifieds section.

Phone 0800 85 25 80 to book in or email wordads@agrihq. co.nz

ELECTRO-TEK ENGINEERING

ZON BIRDSCARER electro-tek@xtra.co.nz Phone: 06 357 2454

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 027 688 2954 Richard.

BOOK AN AD. For only $2.30 + gst per word you can book a word only ad in Farmers Weekly Classifieds section.

Phone 0800 85 25 80 to book in or email wordads@agrihq. co.nz

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.

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.

HAY/BALAGE FOR SALE HAY SQUARE AT $75, Rounds at $85 plus GST. Wheat and barley straw available now.

BALAGE EXCELLENT QUALITY, $75 per bale plus GST. Unit loads available for hay and balage.

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

Call 0800 85 25 80

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Add value far into the future. Trees last over 200 years. Cork harvest income at year 25, then every 10 years. Potential carbon credits at 30% with a minimum 1ha canopy cover.

For tree availability call 021 327 637 or visit truffles.nz

120 Autumn Calving cows or heifers required

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• R1 & R2 Bulls

Ph 027 526 5994

• R1 & R2 Steers • R1 & R2 Heifers • Empty dairy heifers • Cull dairy & beef cows

SOUTH ISLAND WIDE Contact Colin 027 285 5780 or Abby 021 201 2724 SALE TALK Two good pals, Ivan and Tony, both young, goodlooking guys, are hanging out at the beach together.

Tony always has a dozen or so beautiful girls hanging around and Ivan can’t make anything happen, girl-wise.

Ivan begs Tony for the secret of success. Tony tells Ivan to head to the grocery, pick out a large baking potato and stick it down his bathing suit when he goes to the beach. Ivan is incredulous but desperate.

Southern Ram Sale 14th-16th February

Next day, Ivan is waiting at the door for the grocery to open. He picks out a shapely potato and follows Tony’s instructions to the letter.

The result is worse than ever. The ladies are actively avoiding poor Ivan. He’s mad and finds Tony on the beach surrounded as usual with pretty girls. Ivan gives Tony the bad news and Tony says: “Tomorrow, put the potato down the FRONT of your bathing suit.”

OUTSTANDING OPPORTUNITY! For sale for 1 June 2024 delivery/settlement 4th Generation Taranaki Jersey Herd Approx 200 M/A Cows BW 317 ave 70 Incalf heifers BW 350 80 Heifer calves BW 363 Potential LIC splits available For more information contact: Karl Stratton 027 316 5572 Steve Quinnell 027 552 3514

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PGG Wrightson Livestock - East Coast

Dairy Cows Wanted to lease

GOATS WANTED

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Fantastic stock feed which is low tannin and high in carbohydrates. Produces up to 1 ton of acorns per tree each year.

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Helping grow the country

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ANIMAL HANDLING

Great stock shade and shelter with 0% loss of grazing land. Stock protector options are available for cattle, sheep & deer.

Follow us online for updates:

Jamie Hayward 027 434 7586

Vendors: David Giddings 027 229 9760 George Giddings 027 656 3323 LK0117810©

LOOKING FOR HOUSE or unit to rent around Te Awamutu, working full time.

Phone 027 507 4462.

Trees produce truffles at around year 7, producing up to 1kg a year by year 15.

Currently black truffles are selling at $2,500$3,000 per kg, with high demand.

Grand opportunity to purchase

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CORK OAK TRUFFLE TREES

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29

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Marketplace

30 Markets

Markets

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Dairy-beef weaner profits on the moo-ve Returns on calves are above and beyond expectations as cattle supply reacts to the hiccup in calf rearing.

Alex Coddington

MARKETS

A

Livestock

S THE first month of 2024 moves swiftly by, the tail-end of the dairy-beef weaner fair season has rolled around again for the regions of Taranaki, Waikato and Manawatū.

Overall, returns on calves this season have surpassed the expectations of a lot of people in the industry.

The current grass market and the effects of a reduced supply have not only elevated prices across the board but, most surprisingly, kept prices firm through the entirety of the season.

Rearing calves in recent years has been nothing short of a battle against the odds. The rising cost of living and a weak cattle market post-covid had rearers struggling to sell calves above the cost of production for several years.

It is apparent now that the reduced interest in calf rearing has had flow-on effects, reducing the current supply of cattle available for purchase in the store market across all ages.

Results from 2023 show that, more recently, weaner calves have been increasing in value as supply continues to build. It’s a well-known fact that the reduced supply has added a lot of pressure to procurement.

Now, in 2024, with throughput

across Taranaki, Frankton and Feilding saleyards increasing since 2022, prices across the board for steers, bulls, and heifers have surpassed pre-2019 levels.

PGG Wrightson agent Vaughn Larsen said this season of dairybeef weaner fairs has been incredibly strong, right until the end, and he struggles to remember a time when beef calves had yielded such strong results.

“If we had more numbers, we would be carrying on, maybe even look at having weaner sales every week.

If we had more numbers, we would be carrying on, maybe even look at having weaner sales every week.

Vaughn Larsen PGG Wrightson “People are getting stuck into weaners. Whether that’s due to a kind growing season or that they are easier to feed when at risk of a drought, the demand for all classes of weaner calves is still going strong.”

This is good news for those looking to wean their calves early to put cows into clean-up mode, and a long-awaited relief for rearers who decided to stick it out through the tough years.

It will be interesting to see if

this encourages an increase in throughput next year.

In the first sales week of January 2024 at Taranaki saleyards, an increased supply was easily absorbed by current demand and attracted a large gallery of buyers. At the sales, 120kg dairybeef bulls averaged $650, 130kg Friesian bulls fetched $605, and dairy-beef steers and heifers, 120kg, secured average prices of $605 and $480 respectively.

This time last year at Taranaki, dairy-beef calves faced similar market conditions. Our LivestockEye reported that in January 2023 the effect of the grass market had lifted buyer enthusiasm and values from the previous year. The average weight of dairy-beef calves in Taranaki has been similar across the past three years, but per-head prices have been increasing $50-$70 year on year.

At the Frankton saleyards the market found its level for 120kg dairy-beef bulls at $600. Friesian bulls on average weighed 130kg and returned $585, the weakest price of the three main saleyards this month. However, it was a $70 increase from the year prior, and 120kg dairy-beef heifers returned $485.

On January 18, Frankton saleyards listed 714 calves. The average price for 125kg dairy-beef bull calves increased $55, to $655.

Friesian bulls on average weighed 135kg and returned $620, and

DEMAND: PGG Wrightson agent Vaughn Larsen says ‘people are getting stuck into weaners’.

125kg dairy-beef heifers returned $550. This was the strongest result for January across the three main saleyards.

This time last year at Frankton, the benchmark of pricing was a lot lower than current levels. The implication of a grass market was increasing prices on weaners week on week. Average weights were on the rise but still 10-15kg less than what they are now.

The first dairy-beef weaner fair of 2024 at Feilding took place on the same day as Frankton’s most recent sale. The average price aligned with results at

Frankton at $600. Friesian bulls weighed 135kg and received $615.

Dairy-beef steers and heifers on average weighed 135kg and 130kg respectively. The steers returned an average price of $655 while the heifers made $535.

This time last year at Feilding, prices had stabilised but were overall performing in a lower price bracket compared to results from this year. Average weights were a bit more sporadic and 140kg dairy-beef steers received $650.

Heifers, 125kg, returned $545, while the average price of bulls, 120-135kg, fetched $580-$595.

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Markets

31

31

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

Weekly saleyards The Temuka adult ewe fair broke the mould on the last day of January and posted a higher tally than the same sale of the previous year. There were 9496 head of ewes yarded compared to almost 8400 in 2023. Through most age groups, Romney were the pick of the bunch and reached $134 and $133 for 4-year and mixed-age lines respectively, while 5-year Romney mostly managed $104-$120. The top return of the sale went to 100 head of Romney 4-tooth ewes which fetched $160. These were closely followed by Border Leicester-Romney 3- to 4-year, which made $156. Conditions were generally very good across the board and reasonable feed levels in the area put a positive note on the sale. $/kg or $/hd

Matawhero | January 26 | 399 sheep

$/kg or $/hd

R2 dairy-beef steers

3.36

5-year Romney ewes, medium to good

57-70

R2 dairy-beef heifers

3.00-3.10

Mixed-age Romney ewes, very good

123

Kaikohe | January 31 | 280 cattle

Aut-born yearling Friesian bulls, 270kg

3.51

Mixed-age Wiltshire ewes, full shedders, good

151

Weaner dairy-beef heifers, 110-120kg

570-640

Mixed-age Wiltshire ewes, half shedders, good

111-136

Store mixed-sex lambs

61-63

Prime male lambs

120

Tuakau | January 25 | 120 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

R2 dairy-beef steers, 450-520kg

3.10-3.27

R2 dairy-beef heifers, 380-440kg

3.00-3.12

Aut-born yearling dairy-beef steers, 250-320kg

3.30-3.50

Tuakau | January 30 | 125 sheep

$/kg or $/hd

Prime ewes, all

60-80

Prime lambs, all

115-125

Tuakau | January 31 | 290 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

Prime steers, 680-750kg

2.92-3.00

Prime heifers, 500-600kg

2.92-3.08

Boner cows, 550-635kg

2.00-2.25

Boner cows, 450-550kg

1.70-2.09

Rangiuru | January 30 | 156 cattle, 30 sheep

$/kg or $/hd

Taranaki | January 25 | 898 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

Aut-born weaner Hereford-Friesian steers, one line, 266kg

890

Weaner dairy-beef steers, average, 120kg

625

Weaner dairy-beef steers, most, 120-130kg

650-710

Weaner Hereford-Friesian bulls, 172-177kg

720-745

Weaner Simmental-Friesian bulls, one line, 134kg

730

Weaner Friesian bulls, 123-168kg

570-680

Weaner Hereford-Friesian heifers, 125-151kg

500-580

Taranaki | January 31 | 209 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

R3 Hereford bulls, 662-727kg

2210-2420 3.39-3.41

R2 dairy-beef steers, 346-370kg

3.38-3.64

R2 Hereford-Friesian steers, 342-346kg

R2 dairy-beef heifers, 320-380kg

2.90-3.08

R2 Jersey bulls, 378-420kg

Weaner dairy-beef steers, 155-165kg

700-750

Prime Hereford-Friesian steers, 560-612kg

Prime dairy-beef steers, 665-735kg

3.22-3.25

Boner Friesian cows, average, 535kg

Boner cows, 300-549kg

1.84-1.93

Stortford Lodge | January 29 | 2072 sheep

1200 3.00-3.05 1.95

$/kg or $/hd

Store ewes, all

39-61

Prime ewes, medium to very heavy

68-89

Prime lambs, all

46.50-72

Prime ewes, light to medium

30-61

Prime mixed-sex lambs, heavy to very heavy

111-150

Prime mixed-sex lambs, light to medium

70-93.50

Prime ewe lambs, heavy to very heavy

140

Frankton | January 30 | 253 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

R2 beef-cross steers, 360-412kg

2.75-2.77

R2 Hereford-Friesian heifers, 415-427kg

2.99-3.04

Prime Hereford-Friesian steers, 580-602kg

2.97-3.00

Prime Charolais-Friesian heifers, 510-552kg

3.00-3.08

Prime dairy-beef heifers, 472-510kg

2.99

Boner crossbred cows, 532-566kg

1.90-1.95

Frankton | January 31 | 432 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

R2 Belgian Blue-cross heifers, 411-420kg

2.91-2.92

Weaner Hereford-Friesian steers, 131-135kg

640-665

Weaner Friesian bulls, 155-171kg

685-750

Weaner Hereford-Friesian heifers, 120-122kg

560-575

Te Kuiti | January 26 | 360 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

Mixed-age Angus cows, one line, 408kg

1455

R3 Hereford-Friesian steers, 473-529kg

3.06-3.08

R2 Angus steers, 400-439kg

3.23

Stortford Lodge | January 31 | 211 cattle, 2148 sheep

$/kg or $/hd

R3 traditional steers, 515-522kg

3.28-3.33

R3 exotic-cross steers, 536-570kg

3.21-3.23

R3 traditional heifers, 633-648kg

3.08-3.09

R2 Angus steers, 293-327kg

3.84-3.90

R2 traditional heifers, 284-343kg

3.40-3.45

Mixed-age Romney ewes, light to medium

55-81

Store blackface mixed-sex lambs, good to heavy

84

Store whiteface male lambs, good to heavy

75.50-109.50

Store Romney ram lambs, good

66-87

Store whiteface ewe lambs, small to medium

67-70.50

Dannevirke | January 25 | 1791 sheep

$/kg or $/hd

R2 Angus, Charolais steers, 305-376kg

3.54-3.67

Store ewes, all

67-120

R2 Charolais-cross steers, 339-420kg

3.29-3.33

Prime ewes, all

50-85.50

R2 Angus heifers, 260-346kg

3.15-3.24

Prime lambs, all

89-110

32

32 Feilding | January 26 | 956 cattle, 3932 sheep

$/kg or $/hd

Mixed-age Angus cows, 502-635kg

2.32-2.61

R3 Angus heifers, 472-504kg

3.20-3.23

R2 traditional steers, 382-416kg

3.31-3.49

R2 Friesian bulls, 346-353kg

3.33-3.44

R2 Angus heifers, 311-421kg

3.13-3.26

Weaner Angus steers, 128-140kg

660-730

Store whiteface male lambs, heavy

96-111.50

Store whiteface male lambs, shorn, good

88-97

Store blackface mixed-sex lambs, woolly, medium

71-88.50

Feilding | January 29 | 237 cattle, 2938 sheep

$/kg or $/hd

Prime Hereford bulls, 480-588kg

3.07-3.12

Prime Jersey bulls, 482-517kg

2.81-2.86

Boner Friesian cows, 549-625kg

1.90-1.97

Prime 2-tooth ewes, all

54-101

Prime ewes, all

45-95

Prime mixed-sex lambs, all

61-153

Prime male lambs, all

116-126

Rongotea | January 30 | 303 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

R2 Jersey bulls, 427-481kg

2.65-2.77

R2 Hereford-Friesian heifers, 370-401kg

2.90-3.14

R2 Jersey heifers, 324-370kg

2.00-2.03

Weaner Hereford-Friesian steers, 107-131kg

550-640

Weaner Friesian bulls, 88-113kg

470-570

Weaner Angus-cross bulls, 113-122kg Weaner Hereford-Friesian heifers, 106-131kg

Hawarden | January 26 | approx 8200 sheep

Markets

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

BITING THE BULLET: A shortage of store cattle has forced buyers to put their money where their mouth is if they want to secure cattle to tidy up rank feed. These R2 Hereford-Friesian steers at Rangiuru averaged 350kg and fetched $3.64/kg

6-year Corriedale ewes

85-102

AD Halfbred ewes

71-105

AD Quarterbred ewes

103

Coalgate | January 25 | 222 cattle, 4239 sheep

$/kg or $/hd

R2 beef heifers, 334-388kg

2.69-2.89

530-540

Prime beef steers, 605-665kg

2.82-2.90

500-610

Prime Angus bulls, 865-1100kg

1.90-1.96

Prime Hereford-Friesian heifers, 460-662kg

2.76-2.86

$/kg or $/hd

2-tooth ewes, tops

140-200

3-shear Romney ewes, capital stock

150-161

4-shear Romney ewes, capital stock

130-145

5-year Romney ewes, tops

123-130

Store lambs, good

74-93

Store lambs, medium

58-78

Store shedding lambs, medium

65-68

Listen to the latest from Feds each week on the in FOCUS podcast

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Markets Canterbury Park | January 30 | 310 cattle, 2955 sheep

33

$/kg or $/hd

R2 dairy-beef steers, 396-428kg

3.02-3.06

R2 heifers, 367-397kg

2.80-2.89

Prime cows, 560-565kg

1.88-1.98

Prime beef, dairy-beef steers, 570-670kg

2.75-2.92

Prime beef bulls, 423-550kg

2.87-3.00

Prime beef, dairy-beef heifers, 458-535kg

2.70-2.80

Store mixed-sex lambs, woolly, good

70-81

Store blackface mixed-sex lambs, woolly, medium

67-81

Store blackface mixed-sex lambs, small

60-66

Temuka | January 25 | 700 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

R2 Hereford-Friesian steers, 323-392kg

2.83-3.01

R2 Jersey bulls, 323-417kg

1110-1220

R2 Hereford-Friesian heifers, 309-379kg

2.61-2.72

Weaner Friesian bulls, 114-164kg

510-580

Temuka | January 29 | 347 cattle, 4138 sheep

33

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

$/kg or $/hd

FAT AND HAPPY: Plenty of feed in most areas has ensured that cattle coming to the market are in good condition. These R2 steers yarded at Feilding on Friday, January 26, were classic examples. The Angus from Marton, which were late born and weighed 382kg, made $3.43/ kg while Hereford next door averaged 467kg and collected $3.22/kg

Prime Belgian Blue-cross steers, 505-515kg

2.77-2.78

Prime Hereford bulls, 518-695kg

2.90-2.98

Prime Hereford-Friesian heifers, 526-642kg

2.71-2.80

Balclutha | January 31

Boner Friesian cows, 573-710kg

2.06-2.16

Store lambs, all

50-89

Store mixed-sex lambs, good

70-100

Prime ewes, all

40-78

Prime ewes, most

60-80

Prime lambs, all

88-138

Prime mixed-sex lambs, most

100-125

Charlton | January 25 | 78 sheep

$/kg or $/hd

$/kg or $/hd

Prime ewes, all

43-73

Prime lambs, all

89-129

Temuka | January 31 | 9496 sheep

$/kg or $/hd

4-tooth Romney ewes, very good

124-157

4-tooth Border Leicester-cross ewes, very good

116-126

3-4-year ewes, tops, very good

132-156

4-year Romney ewes, very good

132-134

4-year Texel-Coopworth ewes, very good

138-147

Store lambs

60-90

5-year Romney ewes, most, good to very good

104-120

Prime ewes

30-83

Mixed-age Romney ewes, good to heavy

100-133

Prime lambs

101-135

Lorneville | January 30

$/kg or $/hd

Weaner beef-cross bulls, 120-165kg

520-625

Weaner beef-cross heifers, 110-160kg

480-520

Prime bulls, 550kg

2.60-2.68

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34

34

Markets

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

AgriHQ market trends Cattle

Sheep

Deer

Beef

Sheep Meat

Venison

Slaughter price (NZ$/kgCW)

Last week

Last year

North Island P2 steer (300kg)

5.70

5.75

North Island M2 bull (300kg)

5.70

5.65

North Island M cow (190kg)

3.85

4.10

South Island P2 steer (300kg)

5.20

5.35

South Island M2 bull (300kg)

5.30

5.10

South Island M cow (190kg)

3.70

4.05

US imported 95CL bull

8.86

US domestic 90CL cow

8.30

10.64

8.58

NOTE: Slaughter values are weighted average gross operating prices including premiums but excluding breed premiums for cattle.

Steer slaughter price ($/kgCW)

6.0

5.5

5.0 May North Island

Jul

Sep Nov South Island

NZ beef average export value (NZ$/kg)

North Island AP stag (60kg)

8.65

9.00

3.70

South Island AP stag (60kg)

8.70

8.95

5.85

6.65

2.20

3.40

Fertiliser Last week

Last year

DAP

1264

1794

Super

474

442

Urea

897

1240

Urea (Coated)

946

1189

Dec

Last year

North Island lamb (18kg)

6.05

6.95

North Island mutton (25kg)

2.60

South Island lamb (18kg) South Island mutton (25kg)

China lamb flaps

8.65

10.03

(NZ$/kg clean)

26-Jan

Last year

Crossbred fleece

3.22

2.40

Crossbred lamb

3.36

2.72

Courtesy of www.fusca.co.nz

Exports

7.5

China

1,545,682

1,459,745

7.0

Rest of world

148,528

135,003

6.5

Carbon price (NZ$/tonne)

Last week

Last year

6.0

NZU

71.5

72.4

5.5 Jan

Mar

May

Jul

North Island

Sep

Nov South Island

NZ lamb average export value (NZ$/kg) 13.0

Stag Slaughter price ($/kgCW) 10.0 9.5 9.0

12.0

8.5

11.0

8.0

10.0

7.0

Forestry NZ Log Exports (tonnes)

10.0

8.0

NZ average (NZ$/tonne)

8.0

14.0

9.0

Slaughter price (NZ$/kgCW)

Fertiliser

Export markets (NZ$/kg)

11.0

6.0

Last year

Last year

Lamb slaughter price ($/kgCW)

6.5

Mar

Last week

Last week

Wool

Export markets (NZ$/kg)

Jan

Slaughter price (NZ$/kgCW)

Jan

9.0 Jul

Sep Nov 5-yr ave

Jan Last year

Mar

May This year

Mar

May North Island

Jul

Sep Nov South Island

8.0 Jul

Sep Nov 5-yr ave

Jan Last year

Mar

May This year

Data provided by

Get ahead of the market Take advantage of New Zealand’s most trusted independent agricultural market data reporting and analysis, with a range of insightful agriculture and forestry reports.

Subscribe from only $100 per month agrihq.co.nz/our-industry-reports

35

Markets

35

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – February 5, 2024

NZX market trends Dairy

Grain

Data provided by

Milk price futures ($/kgMS)

Close of market

Canterbury feed wheat ($/tonne)

5pm, Wednesday

700

9.5

650 8.5

S&P/NZX PRIMARY SECTOR EQUITY

600

10293

550 7.5

450 Jan

Mar

May

Jul

Sep

Nov

Sep-2024

Jan

YTD High YTD Low

ArborGen Holdings Limited

0.156

0.172

0.155

The a2 Milk Company Limited

5.15

5.18

4.25

Cannasouth Limited

0.133

0.152

0.099

700

Comvita Limited

2.2

2.62

2.13

650

Delegat Group Limited

6.24

6.9

6.16

600

Fonterra Shareholders' Fund (NS)

3.41

3.5

3.34

Foley Wines Limited

1.19

1.2

1.11

Greenfern Industries Limited

0.042

0.058

0.042

Livestock Improvement Corporation Ltd (NS)

1.1

1.1

0.98

Marlborough Wine Estates Group Limited

0.169

0.18

0.155

NZ King Salmon Investments Limited

0.285

0.285

0.225

PGG Wrightson Limited

3.11

3.44

3.09

Rua Bioscience Limited

0.095

0.121

0.094

Sanford Limited (NS)

4.02

4.14

3.9

Scales Corporation Limited

3.33

3.49

3.22

Seeka Limited

2.65

2.75

2.42

Synlait Milk Limited (NS)

0.8

1

0.78

T&G Global Limited

1.91

2

1.91

S&P/NZX Primary Sector Equity Index

10293

10370

10094

S&P/NZX 50 Index

11872

11914

11666

S&P/NZX 10 Index

12154

12254

12007

Mar

May

Jul

Sep

Nov

Jan

Canterbury feed barley ($/tonne)

Dairy Futures (US$/t) 4 weeks prior

WMP

3335

3340

3280

SMP

2690

2660

2700

AMF

5800

5800

5700

Butter

5900

5900

5750

Milk Price

7.83

7.84

7.75

550 500 450

* price as at close of business on Wednesday

400

WMP futures - vs four weeks ago (US$/tonne)

Jan

Mar

May

Jul

Sep

Nov

Jan

Waikato palm kernel ($/tonne)

3500

450

3450 3400

400

3350 3300 3250

350

3200 3150

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Latest price

Jun

300 Jan

4 weeks ago

Mar

May

Jul

Sep

Nov

Wharfgate log prices firm Shipping starting to rise again EXPORT

PRUNED

NZ$/TONNE

+1 S1 DOMESTIC LOGS (NZ$/TONNE)

-4

132

A-GRADE EXPORT LOGS ( US$/JAS [CFR])

+14 150

-3.4

SHIPPING – CHINA

CARBON

NZD:USD

(US$/JAS)

(NZ$/NZU)

(LAST WEEK)

47.2

+4.7 80.0

+0.6C 0.672

MARCH 2022

LOG PRICE INDICATOR

Omicron slows NZ production

MARKET REPORT

Jan

MARCH 2022

FEBRUARY 2022 Key Points

FORESTRY

UNPRUNED

NZ$/TONNE

117

-

LOG PRICE REPORT PULP

NZ$/TONNE

184

-

EXPORT PRUNED

NZ$/TONNE

119

+1

A-GRADE

NZ$/JASM3

56.0

-

-

A

K

KS

KI

KIS

Pruned

Unpruned

Unpruned

Unpruned

Unpruned

Unpruned

40

30 - 40

22

20 - 26

26

10

Knot size (maximum) cm

105

Northern North Island

0

10 - 15

15

15

25

No limit

4.0 - 5.8

4.1 +

4.1 - 12.1

3.6 - 4.0

4.0 +

3.7

183

134

100 95

JULY 2022

90

Mar-14

Mar-15

Mar-16

Mar-18 Mar-17 10 year average

Log Indicator Trends

Mar-19

China wakes up

Mar-20

2.67

Mar-21

Mar-22

NZ SLAUGHTER STEER

$/KGCW

6.17

US$/KG

6.30

170

90

119

122 56

180 127 56

130

117

ph

email

web

+64 6 323 6393 | info@agrihq.co.nz | agrihq.co.nz

150

VIEWPOINT

Mid-winter markets mellow

115

107

102

121

113

105

109

103

115

111

➔

Sentiment poorer for export sales

➔

Backlogs develop on lambs

-26%

-27%

-29%

➔

FMD on the radar for Aus/NZ

-26% -19%

-19%

-20%

-21%

-22%

-23%

-24%

-

$/KGCW

LAST WEEK

0.621

Jan

Mar

5yr ave

May

2020

Jul

2021

Sep

Nov 2022 S ource: AgriHQ

National e xport pruned log price (NZ$/JASm3)

190 170

116 123

* Weightings are calculated on the volume of softwood logs traded through each port in the past 12 months, as indicated by available data.

This month's report is weighted as follows;

Port Weightings Port(s) / Regions

210

112

Short-term we are unlikely to see much more upside than has already been reported. Shipping costs are starting to increase as of late-February due to a mixture of demand changes and increasing bunker costs partly brought on by the Russia-Ukraine situation.

111 113

117

9.18

165

Jan

Mar

5yr ave

115

115 116

122

110

56

116

122 123

118

National grade logLAMB price (NZ$/JASm3) NZ ASLAUGHTER NZD:USD

150

124

124

124

130

128

After a three-month price lull there's finally been a bit of life injected into log export markets. This largely comes from China getting back into the game after coming back from break, supported by mildly weaker shipping costs and the exchange rate. Reduced supplies out of NZ in recent months has been key for reengaging Chinese buying, particularly when other parts of the world aren't offering any more volumes than normal, usually noticeably less.

CHINA FOREQUARTER

126 125

KEY POINTS

Source: AgriHQ

185

...there's finally been a bit of life injected into log export markets.

Reece Brick

MONTHLY SHEEP & BEEF

US IMPORTED 95CL US$/LB

12 mths ago

VIEWPOINT

55.5

Export P

Length m

Mar-13

+0.5

Pruning

110

75 Mar-12

NZ$/TONNE

132

-

NZ$/JASm3 - Weighted Average*, Delivered to Wharf

115

80

PULP

NZ$/TONNE

191

Grade SED (minimum) cm

85

S1

NZ$/TONNE

132

+2

Ten year NZ Combined Log Indicator ($/Tonne)

125

P1

NZ$/JASM3

181

WHARFGATE LOG PRICES

120

Sara Hilhorst

12154

Close

Jan

Prior week

11872

Company

400

Sep-2025

Nearest contract Last price*

S&P/NZX 10 INDEX

Listed Agri shares

500

6.5

S&P/NZX 50 INDEX

May

2020

Jul

2021

Sep

Nov 2022 S ource: AgriHQ

+64 6 323 6393 | info@agrihq.co.nz | agrihq.co.nz

Region Level Island Level National Level

Marsden

33%

Tauranga

67%

34%

27%

-

51%

40%

Northern Nth Isl.

16%

13%

Gisborne/Napier

66%

New Ply/Wellington

34%

17%

13%

Southern Nth Isl.

-

49%

39%

North Island

-

-

80%

33%

43%

26%

Nelson/Picton

67%

Lyttelton/Timaru

33%

21%

4%

Northern Sth Isl.

-

64%

13%

9%

P. Chalmers/Otago

61%

22%

5%

Bluff

39%

14%

Southern Sth Isl.

-

36%

7%

South Island

-

-

20%

3%

36

Weather

ruralweather.co.nz

Orange with a good chance of blue blobs Philip Duncan

NEWS

I

Weather

MAGINE the month ahead is a canvas. El Niño is the base colour – let’s go with orange.

So an entire canvas of orange signifies the weather pattern we were expecting over New Zealand and Australia this summer.

Now imagine someone’s taken hold of a brush with blue paint and flicked it, and the canvas is splattered with blue blobs. That represents the surprise rain and downpours that have hit parts of Australia and NZ this summer.

I wanted to paint this picture in your mind as, to me, it’s a way of understanding the two layers of weather we’ve got going on.

The foundation of our summer is that it should have more westerlies and larger dry areas to the east or inland. In many places this is now happening, but it’s certainly not been the case for much of the eastern North Island.

Many in Hawke’s Bay have told us how green the grass is – not just this year but for the past few years.

One of the issues we have this

summer is the highs aren’t big over NZ. An analogy I used recently was to think of New Zealand as a double bed – but the high pressure zones are only for a single bed. This means we have varying wind flows (and weather) around the edges.

We’ve seen more rain events in the North Island – although it’s worth noting we do have that “Swiss cheese effect” going on, where within regions there are dry and wet areas. Waikato, Canterbury and Southland are all in this category at the moment.

With February now here the days, I hate to say it, are gradually getting shorter. You mostly notice this in the mornings with the sun rising later each day.

This means the mornings are going to become cooler in the weeks ahead – but we’re not done with summer yet.

Despite the first weekend of February kicking off what can only be described as an “autumnal blast”, the weather is going to warm back up this week with nor’westers out of Australia boosting temps.

But the high pressure zones will struggle to neatly fit over NZ, and

the Southern Ocean is especially stormy at the moment and so more windy westerlies and cold fronts will continue to crash into the South Island.

Meanwhile the tropics is a mess with so much low pressure you’d be forgiven for thinking we’re in the middle of La Niña. The computer modelling has been suggesting that a tropical cyclone will form this week in the Coral Sea. If so, it would be the third named cyclone there so far this summer.

It thankfully looks as though high pressure around northern NZ will block any chances of this storm reaching us, but Queensland may again be in the firing line.

Another cyclone may also form around the Cook Islands.

Highlights this week • High pressure more dominant over the North Island • Westerlies off and on for the lower half of NZ • Another cooler southerly by Thursday • High pressure arrives this weekend

RAIN RADAR: Rainfall accumulation over seven days starting from 7am Sunday February 4 through to 7am Sunday February 11.

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11,990

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.00 +GST

Optional offside draft handle $550.00 + GST

2

843024 0800 843 024

7,995

Farmh Farm

.00 +GST

Optional: offside draft handle $590.00 + GST

Stockmaster Vet Crush • Economical crush for weighing and handling • Stockmaster walkthrough headbail • Extra heavy duty 75 x 50 base frame • Split gates on both sides • Hot dip galvanised • Heavy duty steel floor • Single sliding entry door • Vet access gates • Made in New Zealand

$

10,490

.00 +GST

Optional offside draft handle $550.00 + GST

Stockman Vet Crush - with side squeeze

• Designed for medium to large farms and herds • Stockman heavy duty headbail • Hot-dipped galvanised • Extra heavy duty 75 x 50 base frame • Split side gates on both sides • Quiet locking system • Slam latches on both gates • Heavy duty steel floor • Rear handle for headbail operation • Made in New Zealand *Scales sold separately

15,990

$

.00

+GST

Optional offside draft handle $550.00 + GST

www.farmquipnz.co.nz

Terms & Conditions apply Promotional offers valid until 31st March 2024. All prices exclude freight & GST unless specified. All prices while stocks last. Limited stock on hand.

CATTLE HANDLING

hand mhand Loading Loading Ramp Ramp mhand armhand Loading Loading Ramp Ramp

COST EFFECTIVE YARDS FOR LIFESTYLE TO LARGE FARMS Farmhand 5 Head Yard

Farmhand 10 Head Yard

• 7-rail multi-purpose for cattle and sheep • Farmhand walkthrough headbail Farmhand 10 Head Yard • Farmhand sliding gate • Hot dipped galvanised • Kit set

• 7-rail multi-purpose for cattle and sheep • Farmhand walkthrough headbail • Farmhand sliding gate • Hot dipped galvanised • Kit set

(Approximately 5 head yard size, depending on animal size)

(Approximately 10 head yard size, depending on animal size)

4,990

$

Farmhand 10 Head Yard

.00

5,990

.00

$

+GST

+GST

Farmhand 25 Head Yard

Farmhand 20 Head Yard

Farmhand 2520Head Yard Farmhand Head Yard

Farmhand 20 Head Yard

• 7-rail multi-purpose for cattle and sheep • Farmhand walkthrough headbail • Farmhand sliding gate • Hot dipped galvanised • Kit set

Farmhand 25 H Farmhand

• 7 rail multi-purpose for cattle and sheep • Farmhand walkthrough headbail • Farmhand sliding race gate • Hot dipped galvanised • Kit set Excludes loading ramp. Add loading ramp for $3,695.00 + GST (Plus freight)

7,590

$

.00

$

(Approximately 20 head yard size, depending on animal size)

+GST

Farmhand 32 Head Yard

9,790

.00

(Approximately 25 head yard size, depending on animal size)

+GST

Farmhand 12mtr Horse Pen

Farmhand 42 Head Yard

Farmhand 75 Head Yard

• 7-rail multi-purpose for cattle and sheep • Farmhand walkthrough headbail • Farmhand sliding gate • Hot dipped galvanised • Kit set

• 7 rail multi-purpose for cattle and sheep • Farmhand walkthrough headbail • Farmhand sliding race gate • Hot dipped galvanised • Kit set

Farmhand 12m Farmhand

Farmhand 32 Head Yard 5

S

/G

20

33

9

$

Farmhand .00Curved +GST Force Tub

Add ramp $3,500 + GST

H/B

S/G

13,490

S/G

S/G

BLUE ---------- 1800 GREEN -------- 2100

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DRAWING IS PROPRIETARY TO FARMQUIP AND SHALL NOT BE REPRODUCED OR DISCLOSED IN WHOLE OR IN PART OR USED FOR ANY DESIGN OR MANUFACTURE EXCEPT WHEN SUCH USER POSSESSES DIRECT WRITTEN AUTHORISATION FROM FARMQUIP.

DRAWN

M. Z

DATE

31-05-16

SCALE

FH - 32 R

SHEET NO.

SHEET SIZE

N.T.S.

A3

20

30

1 OF 1

19,995

Farmhand Yard Panels Farmhand Loading .00 $ Bundle of 10 Ramp +GST

H/B

BLUE ---------- 1800

GREEN -------2100 BLUE ---------1800 GREEN -------- 2100

Farmhand 126 Head Yard

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DRAWING IS PROPRIETARY TO FARMQUIP AND SHALL NOT BE REPRODUCED OR DISCLOSED IN WHOLE OR IN PART OR USED FOR ANY DESIGN OR MANUFACTURE EXCEPT WHEN SUCH USER POSSESSES DIRECT WRITTEN AUTHORISATION FROM FARMQUIP.

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DRAWING IS PROPRIETARY TO FARMQUIP AND SHALL NOT BE REPRODUCED OR DISCLOSED IN WHOLE OR IN PART OR USED FOR ANY DESIGN OR MANUFACTURE DRAWN EXCEPT WHEN SUCH USER POSSESSES DIRECT WRITTEN DATE AUTHORISATION FROM FARMQUIP. SCALE

M. Z

SHEET SIZ

FH 75A3 -L

Farmhand 150 Head Yard Farmhand Yard Panels Farmhand Curved Farm • 7-rail multi-purpose for cattle and sheep • Hot dipped galvanised • Kit set • Includes Farmhand Vetless Crush

• 7 rail multi-purpose for cattle and sheep • Hot dipped galvanised • Kit set • Includes Farmhand Vetless Crush

FH - 32 R

SHEET NO.

31-05-16

N.T.S.

1 OF 1

Bundle of 10

Force Tub

Ram

5

15

21 12

S/G

20

26

51

$

32,990 THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DRAWING IS PROPRIETARY TO FARMQUIP AND SHALL NOT BE REPRODUCED OR DISCLOSED IN WHOLE OR IN PART OR USED FOR ANY DESIGN OR MANUFACTURE EXCEPT WHEN SUCH USER POSSESSES DIRECT WRITTEN AUTHORISATION FROM FARMQUIP.

$

.00 +GST

Colour Code

BLUE ---------- 1800 GREEN -------- 2100

Concrete Area Animal Capacity Full Yard=300m2 126 Head @ 1.8m2 Work Area=100m2 176 Head @ 1.4m2

FARMQUIP

DRAWN

Sam R SHEET SIZE

DATE

29/08/19

CATTLEYARD SYSTEMS SCALE PLAN No.

FH-126-L-STD

SHEET NO.

1:100

A3

35,900

.00

+GST

1 OF 1

JOIN THE FARMQUIP TEAM AT THE UPCOMING AGRICULTURAL SHOW IN YOUR REGION THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DRAWING IS PROPRIETARY TO FARMQUIP AND SHALL NOT BE REPRODUCED OR DISCLOSED IN WHOLE OR IN PART OR USED FOR ANY DESIGN OR MANUFACTURE EXCEPT WHEN SUCH USER POSSESSES DIRECT WRITTEN AUTHORISATION FROM FARMQUIP.

Colour Code

BLUE ---------- 1800 GREEN -------- 2100

Concrete Area Full Yard=??m2 Work Area=??m2

Animal Capacity 150 Head @ 1.8m2 210 Head @ 1.4m2

FARMQUIP

DRAWN

Sam R

DATE

27/02/19

FH-150-L-STD

SHEET NO.

CATTLEYARD SYSTEMS SCALE PLAN No.

WAIMUMU 14-16 FEB • DARGAVILLE 29 FEB-1,2 MARCH • CENTRAL DISTRICTS 14-16 MARCH 3

0800 843 024

www.farmquipnz.co.nz

Terms & Conditions apply Promotional offers valid until 31st March 2024. All prices exclude freight & GST unless specified. All prices while stocks last. Limited stock on hand.

1:100 1 OF 1

SHEEP HANDLING Crutch and Weigh Combo FREE Sheep Handler GALLAGHER S LOADBAR VALUED AT $1600 +GST

• Tips sheep on their sides for dagging & crutching • 3-way and 5-way drafting options • Fully automated weighing • Compatible with Gallagher & TruTest Scales • Made in New Zealand

CONTACT • The ultimate machine for fast and efficient dagging & crutching US FOR A • Air controlled on skids QUOTE • Tips sheep on thier sides for dagging & crutching

• Adjustable overhead clamp • Made in New Zealand Optional add ons: • Auto Catch • Belly Catch Mechanism

Sheep Weigh Crate Sheep/Calf Panels • Manual weighing and 3 way drafting • Alloy, lightweight, transportable • Mounts on to any existing loadbars

Daggers Mate Sheep Handler

• Railed - 3m W x 1m H • Quick, easy pin together yard panel for a variety of uses • Use for sheep/calves/goats

dhand 25 Head YardYard 25 Head

Fixed Side Draft Module

Adjustable Sides Draft Module

• Maintains a manageable flow to 3-way draft gates • 3110 x 1000 x 600 (ext)

• Fit into any existing sheep yard • 3 way draft • 4500 x 1000 x 600 (ext)

10 PACK $1700 + GST

$

2,595 .00

+GST

$

179 .00 EACH $ 3,495 .00

$

+GST

+GST

4,395.00

+GST

SHEEP FARMING IS EASIER WITH FARMQUIP 44 Head Sheep Yard • Includes fixed sides draft module • Heavy duty semi permanent sheep yards • Hot dip galvanised • No overhead frames on gates • Kitset

• Includes adjustable sides draft module • Heavy duty semi permanent sheep yards • Hot dip galvanised • No overhead frames on gates • Kitset

36 Sheep

CONTACT US FOR A anels Farmhand Loading QUOTE

8 Sheep

FIXED

710 Head Sheep Yard 112 Sheep

127 Sheep

CONTACT US FOR A QUOTE

4

105 Sheep

CONTACT US FOR A QUOTE

17 Sheep

Sheep 25 Sheep

51 Sheep

67 Sheep

15% OFF SHEEP YARDS* 1232 Head Sheep Yard

Ramp

• Includes adjustable sides draft module • Heavy duty semi permanent sheep yards • Hot dip galvanised • No overhead frames on gates • Kitset

185 Head Sheep Yard 25

ADJUSTABLE

dhand 12mtr Horse Pen Pen 12mtr Horse

55 Sheep

• Includes adjustable sides draft module • Heavy duty semi permanent sheep yards • Hot dip galvanised • Double width race • Kitset

122 Sheep

110 115 Sheep Sheep

0800 843 024

232 Sheep

CONTACT US FOR A QUOTE

115 Sheep

112 Sheep

270 Sheep ADJUSTABLE

170 Sheep

332 Sheep

www.farmquipnz.co.nz

Promotional offers valid until 31st March 2024. All prices exclude freight & GST unless specified. All prices while stocks last. 15% off Farmquip RRP; excludes, sheep handlers, concrete & installation.

POULTRY & BIRD EQUIPMENT

UP TO 20% OFF ALL Supreme Poultry Feeders • 5 kg

$

OPTIONAL LEGS X 4 $9.95

39.50

INC GST

Stock Code: A8093

Treadle Feeder • 8 kg

$

111

.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A8345

Supreme Poultry Feeders • 18 kg

$

OPTIONAL LEGS X 4 $9.95

55.95

Stock Code: A8094

INC GST

Galvanised Feeder with Glass Jar

$

15

.95

Stock Code: A8212

INC GST

Supreme Feeders with Cover • 8kg

$

OPTIONAL LEGS X 4 $9.95

39.50

INC GST

Stock Code: A8121

Galvanised Poultry Feeder

• 5 kg

$

55

Supreme Feeders with Cover • 15kg

$

OPTIONAL LEGS X 4 $9.95

55.95

Stock Code: A8130

INC GST

Stock Code: A8095

INC GST

7

$ .95

Stock Code: A8135

INC GST

Suspension Poultry Suspension Feeder with Lid Feeder • 1.5kg, 3kg, 5kg, 8kg

Priced from

.95

Supreme Poultry Range - 4 Legs

$

7

.20

Stock Code: A8007 - A8010

INC GST

• 3kg, 5kg, 8kg

Priced from

$

15.95

Stock Code: A8032-34

INC GST

Treadle Feeder

1kg Poultry Feeder Metal Nesting Boxes Metal Nesting Boxes Metal Nesting Boxes

119.95

$

• 12 kg

$

INC GST

Stock Code: A8346

Treadle Feeder • 20 kg

$

127

.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A8347

Tripod Drinker • 30 L

$

7.95

Stock Code: A8120

INC GST

INC GST

Stock Code: A8128

15

.20

INC GST

$

9

.55

Stock Code: A8124

INC GST

$

OPTIONAL LEGS X 4 $7.50

31.95

Stock Code: A8091

INC GST

$

7

Stock Code: A8327

INC GST

23 .95

$

• 12 egg • Auto egg turning

• 24 egg • Auto egg turning

Egg Tech Auto Incubator

$

399.20

INC GST

Stock Code: A8075

$

15

.95

Stock Code: A8234

INC GST

15 .95

INC GST

Stock Code: A8319-4

Egg Tech Auto Incubator

$

479 .20

SEE US AT

• 10 L

$

OPTIONAL LEGS X 4 $7.50

39 .95

Stock Code: A8092

INC GST

Stainless Steel Drinker • 2L, 3L, 9L

Priced from

.95

• 4 pack

INC GST Stock Code: A8142-2

103.99

Stock Code: A8162

INC GST

Treat Roller

$

$

135.20

Stock Code: A8163

INC GST

Metal Nesting Box Legs

8

Priced from

.20

Stock Code: A8235

INC GST

Supreme Poultry Supreme Poultry Supreme Top Fill Drinker with Handle Drinker with Handle Poultry Drinker

Nipple Lubing Cup Poultry Dropper • 2 pack Nipples

$

$

• Single & Double

Priced from

Stock Code: A8211

Stock Code: A8161

INC GST

• 20 hole

Galvanised Drinker Siphon Drinker • 1.5L, 3L, 5L with Glass Jar

$

71.20

Plastic Feed Trough Vege Basket

•5L

111.95

$

• Triple Hole

• Double Hole

• Single Hole

INC GST

Stock Code: A8077

$

39.95

Stock Code: A8050

INC GST

Egg Carrier

7.95

INC GST

Egg Tech Auto Incubator

• 49 egg • Auto egg turning

$

559 .20

INC GST

$

59 .95

Stock Code: A8127

INC GST

Stock Code: A8079

Stock Code: A8228

INC GST

Poultry Drinker

•1L • 5 colours to choose from

$

6.35

Stock Code: A8056

INC GST

Straight Drinker

Spiral Leg Rings

19 .95

$

• 4.5 L • 5 colours to choose from

$

Stock Code: A8354

INC GST

• 2 pack

Stock Code: A8227

47 .95

OPTIONAL LEGS X 4 $7.50

Ceramic Nesting Eggs

• Carries 12 eggs

$

• 15 L

$

$

7.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A8125

Metal Brooding Cage

$

239.20

INC GST

Stock Code: A8167

• Pack of 20

9 .55

Stock Code: A8018

INC GST

Leg Rings

• Mixed 24 pack • 15mm

$

9.55

INC GST

Stock Code: A8013-17

Electrified Poultry Netting

• 50m x 112cm H

$

395.00

INC GST

Stock Code: A8048

5 - 10 MARCH SITE #F17

Term’s & Condition’s apply. Promotional offer valid until 31st March 2024. All prices exclude freight unless otherwise stated. Bainbridge & The Rural Butcher prices include GST Farmquip prices exclude GST. Bainbridge 20% discount off RRP. Discount has been applied.

EQUINE, EQUINE, GROOMING GROOMING & SHOW

UP TO 20% OFF ALL Grooming Kits

• Hoof pick • Palm curry comb • Horse comb • Stiff dandy brush and more!

$

63 .95

INC GST

Stock Code: A4113

Mane & Tail Brush

• 6 colours to choose from

$

10.35

INC GST

Stock Code: A4114

Massage Curry Comb

$

2.95

Stock Code: A4001

INC GST

Horse Comb

• 5 colours to choose from

$

5.60

Stock Code: A4110

INC GST

Reversible Curry Comb

Shedding Blade

7.95

$

• 4 stainless steel blades

$

Stock Code: A4018

INC GST

Horse Halter

• Pony/Cob/Full • 5 colours to choose from

$

39 .95

INC GST Stock Code: A4144-46

Hay Net Filling Aid • Wall Mounted • Hay net not included

$

47

.95

INC GST

12 .80

INC GST

Stock Code: A4005

Rope Lead with Brass Snap

• 5 colours to choose from • 2m

14 .40

$

INC GST

Stock Code: A4149

Slow Feed Hay Net • Small, Medium, Large

Priced from

Stock Code: A3600

$

19

.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A3629

Hay Bale Transport Bag

143 .20

$

INC GST Stock Code: A5086

47.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A3646

Fly Mask Mesh with Aluminium Grain Ear Cover Shovel • Pony/Cob/Full

$

28 .80

INC GST

Stock Code: A4152

Ribbed Bell Boots • S - XXL

$

18.40

INC GST

5

Stock Code: A5080-84

• 6 colours to choose from

$

10 .35

INC GST

Stock Code: A4111

Hoof Pick

• 6 colours to choose from

$

5.20

Stock Code: A5078

INC GST

Flexible Coarse Massage Brush

$

7.95

Stock Code: A4078

INC GST

71.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A3519

INC GST

Stock Code: A4150

• Small & Medium

$

39 .95

INC GST

Stock Code: A3594

Stiff Dandy Brush

• 6 colours to choose from

11.20

$

Stock Code: A4072

INC GST

Sweat Scraper & Curry Comb

Palm Soft Brush

7.20

$

• 6 colours to choose from

$

INC GST

Stock Code: A4119

42L Flexi Tub

• 6 colours to choose from

10 .35

INC GST

Stock Code: A4132

25L Flexi Tub

• Multiple colours available

• Multiple colours available

23.95

$

$

INC GST

Stock Code: A3106

• 3 colours to choose from • 3m

19 .96

INC GST

Stock Code: A2133

• Large

$

14 .40

INC GST

Stock Code: A3006

15.95

Stock Code: A3104

26.35

Stock Code: A3659

INC GST

Hay Bag Feeder with Hole

$

INC GST

Heavy Duty Hay Rope Net

$

23 .95

INC GST

Stock Code: A3608

Hay Feeder Bag

Supreme Stable Fork Poop Scooper

47.95

$

$

INC GST

Stock Code: A3647

Aluminium Feed Scoop

$

14.40

INC GST

Stock Code: A3279

$

SEE US AT

Stock Code: A4129

Hay Net with Filling Hay Net with Drawstrings Aid

143 .20

Stock Code: A3645

INC GST

$

$

Supreme Stainless Automatic Drinking Bowl

INC GST

10 .35

$

15 .95

• 5 colours to choose from • 2m

Cast Iron Drinking Bowl

$

• 6 colours to choose from

Cotton Lead Rope

• 1kg

$

Palm Breakdown Comb

Rope Lead with Brass Panic Snap

Priced from

Hoof Farrier Stand

$

Palm Curry Comb

87.20

INC GST

Stock Code: A3150

• 1m

47.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A3118

Heavy Duty Feed Scoop

• 8 Colours to choose from • 1L

$

6.40

INC GST

Stock Code: A3402

$

87.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A3596

Fly Veil

• Pony/Cob/Full

$

12 .80

INC GST

Stock Code: A4154

Nylon Automatic Drinking Bowl

Metal Feed Trough 18L

79.95

$

$

INC GST

Stock Code: A3014

79.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A3599

5 - 10 MARCH SITE #F17

Term’s & Condition’s apply. Promotional offer valid until 31st March 2024. All prices exclude freight unless otherwise stated. Bainbridge & The Rural Butcher prices include GST Farmquip prices exclude GST. Bainbridge 20% discount off RRP. Discount has been applied.

THE RURAL BUTCHER Medium Meat Saw

Small Meat Saw

1,195 .00

$

BU91

INC GST

279.00

BU13

INC GST

Meat Slicer

• Cuts 0-12mm thickness

$

699.00

BU94

INC GST

BU92

INC GST

7L Sausage Filler

3L Sausage Filler

$

2,495 .00

$

379.00

$

BU10

INC GST

Large Meat Saw

3,295 .00

$

INC GST

T12 Mincer

BU93

1,495 .00

$

INC GST

BU199

$

279.00

BU132

INC GST

25.00

$

BU131

INC GST

Corner Bench Unit

649

$

395

$

.00

• 900 x 900

• 1200 L x 600 D

BU81

INC GST

649.00

$

BU08

INC GST

BU14

INC GST

.00

BU80

INC GST

395

49 .00

$

INC GST

BU83

INC GST

BU911

69.00

$

INC GST

BU232

Chopping Board

Stainless Steel Sink Bench

499

1,890 .00

$

Pattie Smasher/Flipper

BU231

INC GST

$

BU09

• Bonus bottle opener attached

• 600 L x 400 W 40 D • 900 L x 400 W 40 D

• 1200 L x 600 D

.00

INC GST

• 320kg/hr

495.00

$

929.00

$

T32 Mincer

Manual Pattie Press Double Pattie Press Pattie Smasher

Stainless Steel Workbench

$

• 250kg/hr

15L Electric Sausage Meat Mixer Filler • 20 Litre

Butchers Block Workbench • 900 L x 600 D

T22 Mincer

• 150kg/hr

From

.00

BU82

INC GST

139.00

$

INC GST

BU220-21

SHOP NOW AT WWW.RURALBUTCHER.CO.NZ 11 Piece Knife Set

8 Piece Knife Set HOT PRICE

149.00

BU44

29 .00

BU59

$

INC GST

6” Meat Cleaver

$

INC GST

Vacuum Sealer

229.00

INC GST

BU71

7

22

INC GST

BU97

8.5” Meat Cleaver

Ox Cleaver

69 .00

BU144

$

BU45

8” Meat Cleaver

49 .00

BU58

$

$

INC GST

INC GST

$

INC GST

INC GST

599.00

$

INC GST

• Smart vac system

BU79

-50 x bags • 150mm x 200mm • 200mm x 300mm • 280mm x 400mm

From

BU76

$

22

.00

INC GST

1,199 .00

$

INC GST

BU78

$

69 .00

BU203

INC GST

89 .00

BU145

INC GST

Stainless Steel Railed Wall Shelf • 1200 W x 300 D

$

79 .00

WHILE STOCK! LASTS

INC GST

BU84

From

BU73

$

22

.00

INC GST

BU179

$

40

.00

INC GST

59 .00

INC GST

BU202

$

28 .00

INC GST

BU96

Bug Zapper • 40W

$

99.00

INC GST

BU197

Butcher Saw • Stainless frame

• 450mm

• 150mm x 200mm • 300mm x 350mm

$

Poultry Scissors

Smooth Sealer Bags Magnetic Knife -100 x bags Holder

Sealer Bags

- 3 x rolls • 200 x 3000mm

.00

40 .00

179.00

$

Large Vacuum Sealer Chamber Vacuum Sealer

Sealer Rolls

$

Meat/Axe Tenderiser Meat Tenderiser

HOT PRICE

• Dual power mode for use at home, • 400mm width seal camping or on the boat • AC 240V & DC 12V plug

$

Fillet set

69.00 25” $ 79.00

22” $

BU110

INC GST INC GST

BU51-52

0800 843 024 WWW.RURALBUTCHER.CO.NZ Terms & Conditions apply. Promotional offers valid until 31st March 2024. All prices exclude freight. All prices while stocks last.

THE RURALL BUTCHER B T12 Mincer cer

11 Piece Knife Set

3L Sausage ge Filler Filler

8 Piece Knife Kit

NOW ONLY $

995.00

3L Sausage sage e Fill Filler er

+FREIGHT

EasySharpe Diamond Di iamon ond Knife Sharpener Rod Kit Kit

8.5” eaverr Cleaver

NOW ONLY $

20L Meat Mixer

Vacuum Sealer

NOW ONLY $

895.00

Stainless Steel Workbench ench

Railed d Wall W Shelf

Chopping hopping Board

Magnetic Knife Holder

379.00

+FREIGHT

NOW ONLY

$

+FREIGHT

599.00

+FREIGHT

SHOP NOW AT WWW.RURALBUTCHE W.RURALBUTCHER.CO R.CO.NZ .NZ Blade Sharpener Kit 3 Stage Knife Sharpener Whetstone Set

Double Sided Diamond Corundum/Diamond Set Stone Set

• Suction pod sticks to bench top

$

129.00

INC GST

BU160

Big Game Weigh Scales

99.00

INC GST

159.00

INC GST

BU164

• Steel chrome plated skid • Stainless steel hook • 180kg

BU230

Juice Press

$

INC GST

Rail Skid Hook

• 250kg max

$

15.00

$

34.00

$

INC GST

BU143

Chip/Vege Cutter

BU300

195.00

$

INC GST

BU302

$

129.00

BU163

INC GST

Meat Hook

BU166

58.00

BU206

INC GST

Roller Hook

• Stainless steel

39.00

$

59.00

$

BU143

INC GST

$

INC GST

Butcher Chainmail Glove

Butchers Twine

149.00

$

$

INC GST

BU213

INC GST

BU162

99.00

BU88

INC GST

Mutton Swivel Hook Gambrel Assembly

$

INC GST

Butchers Apron

• 560mtr • 35kg tensile strength

29.00

40.00

$

• PPU

BU176

39.00

$

INC GST

BU213

JOIN THE RURAL BUTCHER TEAM AT AN UPCOMING SHOW IN YOUR REGION

SOUTHERN FIELD DAYS

WAIMUMU 14 - 16 February 8

MYSTERY CREEK HAMILTON 24 - 25 February

NORTHLAND CENTRAL DISTRICTS FIELD DAYS FIELD DAYS DARGAVILLE 29 Feb - 1,2 March

FEILDING 14 - 16 March

0800 843 024 WWW.RURALBUTCHER.CO.NZ Terms & Conditions apply. Promotional offers valid until 31st March 2024. All prices exclude freight. All prices while stocks last.