Farmers Weekly NZ October 7 2019

7

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Vol 18 No 39, October 7, 2019

Analysts doubt reset Hugh Stringleman

F

hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz

ONTERRA is on a long and challenging journey to redemption, longtime sceptical equities analyst Arie Dekker, of Jarden, said after the latest results were announced and explained.

A crisis of poor investments has forced Fonterra to take action and while its intent and direction are good he does not have enough detailed information to be convinced of the outcome.

Dekker said key issues include too much debt, uncertainty how proceeds from asset sales will be treated and lack of clarity on the base level of earnings from the ingredients businesses.

Because Fonterra had another very tough year and the share market price reflects the low level of collective confidence Jarden reduced its target price by 54c to $3.85. Its new dividend forecasts are 13c and 17c for the next two financial years.

Dekker agrees with the new, conservative dividend policy, saying Fonterra had retained $360 million over the nearly 20 years since formation.

Forsyth Barr analyst Chelsea Leadbetter said the results contain early, bright spots from the strategy reset but they are outweighed by pressure areas, particularly in offshore areas like Australia and Latin America.

The streamlined strategy and

lower dividend policy appear sensible but the planned turnaround won’t be smooth sailing.

Earnings per share are forecast to be about 22c this financial year, followed by 31.5c in FY21, from which Leadbetter forecast dividend payments of 9c and 17c respectively.

Underlying profit continues to worsen while what previously looked like one-off hits to the business are now becoming regular.

Nathan Penny ASB The new business model with three geographic divisions should be a more focused selling machine, arguably dictated by necessity.

The earnings guidance for FY20 is 15-25c a share with targets of 40c and 50c on three-year and five-year plans.

“These targets don’t appear unrealistic at first glance, taking the company back to recent levels.

“However, performance over the past few years has been underwhelming and so improved execution is required to get confidence this recovery is achievable.

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Another farmer seeks Fonterra seat Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz

NORTHERN dairy farmer Victor Rutherford has used the self-nomination option for the Fonterra board election, bringing the field to five this year.

He has a 600-cow farm at Dargaville under a farm manager and lives and works in Auckland in property development and investment.

Rutherford has been a dairy farmer for 23 years beginning with a conversion near Te Aroha and supplying NZ Dairy Group before buying a second farm in Northland and subsequently selling up in Waikato.

With the written support of 35 shareholders he was the only non-assessed candidate nominated in the 10 days from September 17 to 27.

The other four candidates went through the independent assessment panel route. They are incumbents Donna Smit and Andy Macfarlane and newcomers Cathy Quinn and Philipp Haas.

The election is for two

“Management has multiple pressure points to tackle and coupled with volatile input prices and competitive markets make this a complex task,” Leadbetter said.

ASB rural economist Nathan Penny said there is little in the Fonterra results to be rosy about.

“Underlying profit continues to worsen while what previously looked like one-off hits to the business are now becoming regular.

“On paper Fonterra has a new, simplified and sensible strategy

CONTENDER: Northland dairy farmer and property investor Victor Rutherford is a non-assessed candidate in this year’s Fonterra election.

farmer-directors and profiles and position statements will be sent to all Fonterra shareholders on October 15, followed by a roadshow of candidate

but we remain healthily sceptical.

“After a string of poor results only a subsequent string of strong results will make us believers,” Penny concluded.

Craigs analysts said it is prudent to maintain their conservative outlook on Fonterra, given the company’s poor record on execution and the likelihood more capital will be required from farmers.

Fonterra got some credit for better fourth-quarter earnings but that was boosted by non-payment of management bonuses and the

meetings beginning on October 22.

Voting closes on November 5 before the annual meeting in Invercargill on November 7.

migration of some overheads into the farmgate milk price.

Management has done well in making asset sales to repair the balance sheet, with the forecast of a 38% debt ratio this time next year.

The target share price for Craigs is $3.20, up 7% after the results report, but based on a current market price of $3.50 their recommendation is to sell.

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NEWS

WEATHER OVERVIEW High pressure comes into play this week in the New Zealand area but so, too, do a couple of lows. It all makes for a slowing down of our recently fast-moving weather and means things might be more sluggish in the week ahead. High air pressure kicks off this week with sub-tropical winds for parts of the South Island. This mild north to northwest wind lingers over much of NZ until Wednesday when a cold front and small low move in to the West Coast. As we end the working week it looks like NZ might be stuck between two highs and that could see some shower activity. A sub-tropical low might affect NZ this weekend.

NZX PASTURE GROWTH INDEX – Next 15 days

Pasture Growth Index Above normal Near normal Below normal

7-DAY TRENDS

4 Meat prices to go higher Sheep meat and beef exports are forecast to each exceed $4 billion this season, just two years after passing $3b for the first time.

Newsmaker ������������������������������������������������������22 New Thinking ��������������������������������������������������23

Rain

Wind

Eastern areas are leaning drier this week though some northern rain later this week or weekend might brush the entire upper North Island.

We have a western cold front on Wednesday but this weekend rain and showers look more patchy from the west.

Highlights/ Extremes

Opinion ������������������������������������������������������������24

Temperature

ON FARM STORY

Mild winds this week from the northerly quarter with a cooler west to southwest change in the South Island by the end of Wednesday.

A cooler southerly flow affects the lower South Island later this week while the North Island has lighter winds then maybe easterlies.

This week has more mild days than cold ones, especially when compared to last week. The first half of the week leans milder than normal in some places, the second half of the week has a slightly cooler reset.

A large low in the Tasman Sea or around the sub-tropics is worth keeping an eye on as we head into this weekend. There’s also a colder change for newborn livestock later this week in the lower South Island.

14-DAY OUTLOOK

Conditions in Southland aren’t the best for pasture growth but elsewhere the set-up is more positive. The main issue in Southland is a run of wintry weather that has seen temperatures drop and added moisture has made for a bleak time. Expect a slow run for growth in Southland, Otago and even Canterbury for the next week or so though some warmer days coming up will be a positive. In the North Island pasture growth looks moderately healthy.

SOIL MOISTURE INDEX – 03/10/2019

28 Kiwi clarity inspires import Being a foreigner in a strange land is no barrier to progression in the dairy industry for one young woman from England.

REGULARS Real Estate �������������������������������������������������31-53 Employment ����������������������������������������������������54 Classifieds ��������������������������������������������������55-56 Livestock ����������������������������������������������������56-59 Markets �������������������������������������������������������60-64 GlobalHQ is a farming family owned business that donates 1% of advertising revenue to the Rural Support Trust.

Thanks to our Farmers Weekly and Dairy Farmer advertisers this week: $1341. Need help now? You can talk to someone who understands the pressures of farming by phoning your local Rural Support Trust on 0800 787 254.

Source: WeatherWatch.co.nz

This product is powered by NIWA Data

For more weather information go to farmersweekly.co.nz/weather

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

3

Fonterra reset pleases farmers On September 2, before Fonterra’s annual results announcement, we asked some farmers for their views on the co-operative’s direction and future.

Now that’s over and its new strategy is out we went back and asked them for their views now.

Lloyd Downing Waikato farmer Lloyd Downing respects the honesty of Fonterra management at farmer meetings but still has reservations about whether they will achieve all they are aiming for.

“From what I can gather it is likely to take a long time to turn the ship around.

“What still concerns me is if they do not change the capital structure so you can supply without shares we will continue to lose a lot of milk.”

He believes the only factor controlling loss of suppliers now is the lack of competitor capacity, something that will change over time as new plants are built.

He is also concerned that despite declared intentions to refocus on research, the cooperative will remain constrained by a lack of capital to do so.

But he appreciates, given the cash constraints, there is little choice than to quit some assets.

“But that is a bit like selling off your old tractors. You can only sell them off for so long until you don’t have a surplus.”

Geoff Crawford Fonterra’s new strategy looks like a figure-it-out-as-you-go path to Northland farmer Geoff

Crawford who has 1500 cows at Hikurangi.

“We are getting back to basics and there isn’t really a defined route.

“But we assume Fonterra is at rock bottom and the only way is up.”

Crawford referenced the old saying in business that it’s not what you make in a day, it’s what you spend.

Fonterra’s Whangarei meeting heard that non-payment of performance bonuses to management saved $60 million, which he thought was a staggering number.

There was support at a meeting with the company in Balclutha for an about-turn on the previous strategy’s goal of global milk pools and global dominance with a return to focusing on New Zealand’s strengths.

“Call it retrenchment or refinement but it is about doing what we do well, selling our own milk sustainably and profitably.”

directors speak McCallum said the strategy builds on Fonterra’s strengths and the provenance of New Zealand dairy foods.

He will accept the lower dividend range as long as the management can assure him there will be earnings available to actually pay a dividend.

“We have to focus on real disciplines for management because ultimately they will be judged on performance.

“I have been impressed with the new level of honesty – they have owned the mistakes of the past.

He suggested farmers spend some time before roadshow meetings going back over the numbers promised in the past, to hold managers and directors accountable.

“The company must rebuild trust for its farmers and the directors because it has been whittled away.”

Grant McCallum Fonterra’s new strategy is much more realistic for a risk-averse cooperative, Northland shareholder Grant McCallum, who has 580 cows at Maungaturoto, believes.

After hearing chief executive Miles Hurrell and two South Island

Stephen Korteweg South Otago farmer Stephen Korteweg is pleased with the relative simplicity of Fonterra’s new strategy.

Don Moore McNab, Southland, farmer Don Moore says Fonterra’s board and senior management were a lot more humble when they fronted shareholders in Gore last week.

It was noticeable they spoke to shareholders rather than at them as they had done previously.

The detail of the strategy as outlined and the change in approach gives Moore some confidence the new strategy will work.

“You’ve got to have faith they are going to get it right.”

He says the strategy’s focus on looking after New Zealand farmers and the NZ community went down well.

“I am happy with the direction of the new strategy and people are more confident around looking after NZ farmers and the opportunity to focus on the

community rather than global dominance.”

Colin Glass The new strategy is a clear reset with some clear targets for making a return on capital, Dairy Holdings chief executive Colin Glass says.

The stand-out is the tighter focus on required investment returns and clarification on what is important.

The really obvious move was away from the international milk pools and emphasis on how offshore milk can add value to NZ milk.

But the reset seems more prolonged than is ideal.

“We understand the reluctance to project aggressive targets that are not achieved,” Glass, who is responsible for 50,000 cows, said.

“However, the forecasts for next year don’t appear to be too different from the disappointing performance this past year.

“Hopefully, our co-operative’s execution of this strategy can outperform these near-term targets.”

The three- and five-year targets seem realistic and must be achieved if Fonterra is to regain the confidence of farmers to invest in co-operative shares, he said.

Lamb survival is the secret Justin and Deanna McCarthy farm northwest of Taihape at Tiriraukawa. They run 2000 Wairere Romney ewes and 100 MA Angus cows.

“Ten years ago we were topping out with 120% lambing and no lambs prime off mum.

Today we expect 150 to 155% survival to sale, with a weaning weight in the early thirties and up to 800 POM. This is set up by a very low 12.5% wastage from scanning.

We are also mating our hoggets and lambing at 90% from mating with weaning weights similar to the MA ewes. All our ewes and hoggets are completely unshepherded.

The ability of our ewes to lose weight during lambing and lactation and then bounce back always surprises me, especially at weaning, when most are back at mating weight.”

“They are such good mothers I had to get pet lambs from the neighbour”.

www.wairererams.co.nz | 0800 924 7373

4

News

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

Meat prices to go higher Alan Williams alan.williams@globalhq.co.nz SHEEP meat and beef exports are forecast to each exceed $4 billion this season, just two years after passing $3b for the first time.

Beef, lamb, and mutton prices should lift from historically high levels because of strong export demand led by China, with returns boosted by a weakening of the kiwi dollar, Beef + Lamb chief economist Andrew Burtt said in his New Season Report.

Farmgate prices are expected to rise.

Beef and veal exports are forecast to total $4.7b, a 5.9% lift over the year just finished and sheep meat to total $4.23b, a 4.9% rise.

Overall, the rise in red meat and offal returns will be $430m higher year-on-year, after a $228m gain last year and a $1.23b lift the year before.

Lamb and mutton prices have been exceptionally strong since the 2016-17 season while beef prices are expected to rise after being mostly steady since the 2014-15 spike.

The fall in the kiwi dollar will have a large bearing on the outlook as the Reserve Bank

LOOKING GOOD: The outlook for red meat exports remains positive, Beef + Lamb chief economist Andrew Burtt says.

continues to lower the Official Cash Rate.

China’s African swine fever outbreak is having a big impact on red meat demand but NZ export growth was on a strong growth path before that became an issue.

Demand growth for lamb and mutton started midway through the 2016-17 season.

China makes up about 63% of world pork consumption and has had to seek other meat proteins as a substitute.

“The growth in China’s red meat import demand is built on genuine growth as consumption has outpaced domestic production growth,” Burtt said.

The average farmgate price for lamb is forecast to reach $7.73/kg this season, a 3.5% increase, with mutton up 4.5% to $4.73/kg.

Export lamb production is expected to be steady with a minor increase in lamb numbers but carcase weights are down on the 2018-19 record levels. The

spring lamb crop is expected to fall slightly and B+LNZ says fewer ewe lambs are likely to be kept for breeding so more will be available for processing.

Mutton export production is forecast to be up nearly 9% with more ewes available for processing, partly because more hoggets were kept for breeding last season.

Farmgate prices across the cattle classes are expected to rise 4.9% to an average $5.27/kg this season, the increase driven by Chinese demand for processing cuts, drawing supply away from the United States.

The processing cuts are seen as a more apparent substitute for pork. Sheep meat and other beef cuts are generally in the premium market segment.

Burtt said NZ benefits from its longer, more favourable trade relationship with China ahead of larger beef exporters India, Brazil, the US and Australia.

NZ will also benefit in the short to medium-terms from signals US and Australian breeding cow herds could be entering a downward phase of their production cycles.

NZ beef cattle herd numbers are expected to rise 2.6% to 3.82m.

Demand for NZ lamb will

The growth in China’s red meat import demand is built on genuine growth as consumption has outpaced domestic production growth.

Andrew Burtt B+LNZ benefit from Australia being expected to enter a sheep flock rebuilding phase, weather permitting, that will lead to significantly lower production. NZ and Australia are the world’s major sheep meat exporters.

B+LNZ has forecast the nominal average pre-tax earnings for sheep and beef farms to be steady at $173,000 over the year, though that is a slight decrease after inflation. A slight increase in farm spending is likely.

Despite uncertainties over world trade NZ’s red meat customers are mainly in major world economies and demand is solid so the outlook remains positive, Burtt said.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

5

RUIN: Methane and carbon dioxide targets could kneecap primary industries and the national ability to provide well-being to citizens, the Meat Industry Association says in its annual report.

US leaps up sheep meat ladder THE United States, which pays the best prices, has become New Zealand’s second biggest sheep meat market.

Conversely, it is no longer NZ’s biggest beef customer, that honour now going to China.

The average value of sheep meat exports there in the year ended June 30 was $17.79/kg, with total sales worth $456 million on volume of 25,601 tonnes.

Year-on-year growth in the US market was 24% by value.

The US trails biggest customer China by a big margin but pays well over twice the amount for product, the Meat Industry Association says in its annual report.

China continues as the main market, taking 51% of exports by volume at 203,865t and 36% of exports by value, at $1.38 billion.

Chinese imports increased 39% in value year-on-year with product prices at an average $6.77/kg, just 38% of what the Americans pay.

And US imports of NZ beef fell 17% by value while China’s imports jumped nearly 90%.

The US passed the United Kingdom as the second biggest market for sheep meat during the

year, exports there falling by 16% to 42,878t, the lowest figure in a 12-month period and less than half the volume of exports there a decade ago, MIA said.

The value of exports fell by a smaller amount, 12% to $417m, with an average price of $9.72/kg.

Despite the fall the UK remains NZ’s most important market for high-value chilled cuts at 26% of total chilled sheep meat exports for a value of $227m.

Germany, $265.9m, and the Netherlands, $235.7m, are the next biggest individual country markets overall but down 16% and 23% respectively on a year earlier.

Brexit has affected NZ sheep meat exports to both the UK and the rest of the European Union as part of an international trade environment that continues to be in flux, MIA chairman John Loughlin and chief executive Tim Ritchie said.

“We are still grappling with what Brexit will look like and how it might impact access.”

The wider UK and EU remain very important to the NZ sheep industry with France, $105.6m in sales, and Belgium, $88.3m, also among the top countrycustomers, meaning five of the top 10 are from that region.

MIA will be fighting to foil EU

and UK plans to split the NZ sheep meat quota in half in post-Brexit planning. That is contrary to NZ’s legally binding right. NZ is willing to look at creative solutions to maintaining its position, Loughlin and Ritchie said.

These targets are contrary to sciencebased policy and not credible given the short-lived nature of methane.

John Loughlin Meat Industry Association Despite those issues growth in China and the US more than offset UK/EU weakness so total sheep meat exports eked out a 1% gain to just under 400,000t year-onyear.

The industry here is determined to finalise Chinese approvals for all NZ meat companies to be certified for exports of chilled sheep meat and beef products to China. No tangible progress has

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been made since 10 plants owned by six companies were registered more than two years ago.

“This continues to cause frustration and an unlevel playing field for member companies as not all are able to take advantage of the opportunities in the market.”

There are other unresolved issues including access for processed meat products, pet food and raw material for further processing.

Beef exports to China rose 79% to 171,173t, and it overtook the US as the biggest market.

By value it took in $1.2b of product, an 88% lift, with the US down 17% at $1.046b. The volumes to the US were the lowest since 2010-11.

China also became the biggest market for chilled beef, at 7070t from just a small number of plants approved for chilled exports, highlighting the importance of widening access for NZ plants, Loughlin and Ritchie said.

They single out climate change as the major challenge for the meat industry as the Government pushes ahead with the Zero Carbon Bill.

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targets, which have the hallmarks of a messy political compromise.

“These targets are contrary to science-based policy and not credible given the short-lived nature of methane.”

That and the net zero target for carbon dioxide by 2050 have the potential of kneecapping the primary sector.

“This will ultimately kneecap our national ability to provide well-being to our citizens.”

The primary sector has world-leading, innovative, high-tech, complex production and manufacturing businesses producing food for global customers and delivering real and tangible benefit to regional NZ and the wider economy.

MIA accepts that from 2025 farmers will individually pay a price for their measured greenhouse gas emissions but to be effective pricing will have to be at the minimum levels to bring about behaviour change and uptake of new technology and to ensure farmers pay only where emissions are truly creating increased warming.

The primary sector has made a collective commitment to responding to climate change and promised $25m a year to do the work required.

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

7

Poulton is our new trade envoy Luke Chivers luke.chivers@globalhq.co.nz

discussing matters at an officials level sometimes miss the reality of what it means on-farm, so to THIRD-generation Tararua farmer be able to explain first-hand the way we run our farming systems Mel Poulton is New Zealand’s new and why we’re trying to build special agricultural trade envoy. our trade relationships is really She replaces Mike Petersen, important.” from neighbouring Central Poulton’s immediate priorities Hawke’s Bay District, who has will be engaging with farmer held the role since 2013. groups and other agriculture The position supports sector stakeholders to build Government objectives, including support for free-trade agreement raising the value of negotiations with Europe and, NZ agricultural goods and in due course, with the United services, Trade and Export Kingdom.

Growth Minister David Parker “More broadly, Mel will and Agriculture Minister Damien be tasked with advocating O’Connor said. for NZ’s agriculture trade interests from the perspective of a practising farmer and One of the identifying opportunities for NZ to commercialise its agricultural strengths of New Zealand is we are small, expertise offshore,” he said.

Poulton said “One of the we are nimble, we are strengths of NZ is we are small, we are nimble, we are flexible flexible and we can and we can adapt to change adapt to change much much more readily than bigger more readily than nations.

HANDS-ON: What we do know is bigger nations.

“Will it be easy? No. change is constant, and I’d rather “What we do know is change help shape change than be overrun is constant and I’d rather help by it, New Zealand’s new special shape change than be overrun by agricultural trade envoy Mel Poulton Mel Poulton it.” says.

Special agricultural There are paradigm shifts trade envoy stirring internationally in how helping to build NZ’s profile as countries do business and trade a constructive and collaborative in a world of rising protectionism partner in agriculture to our trade and threats to the rules-based Poulton, a sheep and beef partners.” frameworks exporting countries farmer based near Dannevirke, Federated Farmers president like NZ rely on, she said. is highly active in environmental Katie Milne said “She’s a great “No-one really knows how it’s stewardship, chairwoman of representative of NZ farming. She all going to land. the Agricultural Communities has a very good appreciation of “It’s going to be difficult to Respecting the Environment the importance of trade to NZ and navigate our way through this.

Group and Shepherds Group, a to the primary sector.”

“I will be putting my shoulder member of the Global Farmers “Mel can also handle a dog to the plough to help advance our Network and a former Nuffield around a hillside better than any interests.” scholar. man I’ve ever watched, which Parker said Poulton will be a O’Connor said Poulton is well should be an indication of the passionate advocate for both placed to tell NZ’s agriculture patience and skill she will bring farming and NZ products. story to the world.

“Mike has made an outstanding to wrangling with international “This role was originally created free-trade agreements and getting contribution to NZ’s agriculture so we have a NZ farmer talking good deals for NZ.” trade interests, including about real issues with farmers Poulton starts work on January developing an enduring network overseas.

1. of industry relationships and “Trade negotiators and those METAREX INOV FARMERS WEEKLY 120MM X 265MM

Hogget wool plays catch-up FINER hogget wools rose in price at Thursday’s Napier wool sale.

It is a positive sign for the market because till now these traditionally well-sought-after fleeces had not attracted a premium this season, PGG Wrightson’s North island auctioneer Steve Fussell said.

The auction was steady with most types selling at similar levels to the previous sale a fortnight earlier.

Longer, finer wool destined for European markets was slightly firmer. Second-shear wools were mostly slightly

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cheaper. Oddments retreated in price, mainly because of poorer quality.

Sales, full wool, good-toaverage colour: 32 micron, $3.56kg/clean, down 12c; 33, $3.69, steady; 34, $3.02, steady; 35, $3.07, down 13c; 36, $2.77, steady. Crossbred second shear: 33 micron, 2-3 inches, $2.75/ kg clean, steady; 35, 3-4 inches, $2.80, steady; 2-3 inches, $2.51, steady; 37, 3-4 inches, $2.68, down 5c; 2-3 inches, $2.50, steady; 39, 3-5 inches, $2.78, up 13c; 3-4 inches, $2.70, down 3c; 2-3 inches, $2.50, down 5c.

– Alan Williams

8

News

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

Cheese imports leave bad taste Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz A SURGE in European cheeses imported to New Zealand supermarkets has specialty cheesemakers here crying foul over the lack of fairness in trade policies as officials work towards a free-trade agreement with the European Union.

The concerns come as supermarket sales data indicates the number one selling specialty cheese in New Zealand is now the Danish produced Castello from international dairy giant Arla Foods.

Scanning data indicates 25% of cheese sales worth $43 million are generated from imported brands that account for 19% of sales by volume.

If you look at the chilled barges in supermarkets they are full of imported product.

Our country of origin labelling is not strict enough and you have to really look at the fine print often to tell that they are imported cheeses.

Simon Berry Whitestone Cheese The specialty cheese category is one of the fastest growing in supermarkets, up 7.3% in value over the past year, against an increase of 6.9% for the entire cheese category over the same period.

Whitestone Cheese managing director Simon Berry of Oamaru recently had a $10,000 shipment of his cheese stopped at the

French border and only through consular intervention and payment of a $2000 tariff was the order released.

“If you go back to the start, EU farms milk production is subsidised, ours are not, with some farm estates getting support of hundreds of thousands of pounds.

“We are finding frozen container loads of European cheeses are being brought into NZ at minimal freight cost and thawed out and dumped cheap into supermarkets here.”

The European Milk Board reported French dairy farmers last year averaged production costs of 49.25c a kilogram of milk but were paid 34.42c/kg. The deficit was partially offset by direct payments of 4.11c/kg of milk.

Meantime, NZ cheese exports into the EU attract a tariff of €1400-€2200 a tonne while there are no tariffs on EU cheeses into NZ. Berry said his efforts to export into France have been made close to impossible and contrast with the ease European counterparts can send product to NZ. He estimates EU cheesemakers can drop their product into NZ at as much as 30% below the cost facing NZ cheesemakers.

“It (Europe) is not a big part of our business and I think we are the only NZ specialty cheese producer selling into Europe but this is a market we would like to develop but that is extremely difficult given this imbalance.”

Berry has seen Bulgarian feta cheese landing in NZ at $5-$6/kg.

“That is less than what we are paying farmers here for milksolids.”

He said the increase in imported cheeses has been particularly marked in the past five years.

“If you look at the chilled barges in supermarkets,they are full of imported product.

“Our country of origin labelling is not strict enough and you have

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CHEESED OFF: Whitestone Cheese managing director Simon Berry is disappointed at the amount of imported cheese on NZ shelves.

to really look at the fine print often to tell that they are imported cheeses.”

Berry hopes the fact October is NZ Cheese month will help raise local consumers’ awareness of the growing artisan cheese industry here and lift their commitment to it over imported varieties.

Clevedon Buffalo Company is NZ’s only fresh mozzarella cheesemaker. Its co-owner Helen Dorresteyn said the lack of a level playing field makes life particularly tough for artisan producers.

“We find plenty of Italiansourced mozzarella coming into NZ frozen, sold considerably cheaper than ours. However, NZ is supposed to be working towards adding value and farming sustainably and these imported products are often far from that.”

She also challenged the standards NZ cheesemakers work to compared to those of the cheap import countries.

“We have visited plenty of cheesemaking plants in Italy and know the standards are nothing like what we have to meet here.

“I would bet if those plants had to meet NZ standards there is no way they would bother even making enough to export.”

Dairy and meat access have been major sticking points in the free-trade negotiation with the EU, including naming rights to use certain cheese styles including gouda, feta and parmesan.

Berry said as a cheesemaker he doesn’t really have an issue with that.

“We give our cheeses specific names and in Australia they call feta fetta and consumers

still understand what it is.”

Rather, his concern is that even if a free-trade agreement provides tariff-free access for NZ cheese the countries exported to are still subsidising their milk suppliers.

A Fonterra spokesman said the co-operative is working closely with the Government on the freetrade negotiations.

“We are extremely supportive of a comprehensive FTA that eliminates all barriers to dairy trade, including tariffs on dairy products including cheese.”

NZMP, Fonterra’s dairy ingredients brand recently claimed 15 awards at the prestigious United Kingdom International Cheese and Dairy Awards.

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10 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

Water rules come in from 2021 Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz VEGETABLE growers and Kaipara farmers will be required by mid 2022 to have approved and audited freshwater management plans, according to a timetable for the Government’s freshwater policy.

The rest of farmers and growers will have until the end of 2025 to have their plans approved by a suitably qualified and experienced farm environment planner.

Plans must then be audited every two years.

Pastoral and arable farms less than 20ha and horticultural farms less than 5ha will be exempt from management plans.

Tighter restrictions on land use intensification apply from the middle of next year along with minimum standards required for winter grazing of forage crops and sacrifice paddocks.

If the standard cannot be met or farmers have a stock-holding area or feedlot where animals are held for more than 30 days a year or 10 days in a row then consent will be required.

Stock exclusion fences will be progressively introduced from July 2021 with all cattle, pigs and deer excluded from lakes and rivers

SILENT: Agriculture consultant Chris Garland declined to comment on his meeting with Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor.

more than 1m wide and wetlands by mid 2023.

Any stock exclusion fences less than an average of 2m from a waterway will have to be moved to at least an average of 5m away by 2035.

How that distance is measured is still to be decided.

Farmers in specific parts of catchments with high nitrogen levels might from mid 2022 need

a freshwater plan or consent to show how levels will be reduced but that is still open to consultation.

They are the Waipao Stream in the Wairoa River catchment in Northland, the Upper Rangitaiki River upstream of the Otangimoana River confluence in Bay of Pleanty, the Piako River and Waihou River in Waikato, the Taharua River in the Mohaka

River catchment in Hawke’s Bay, the Waingongoro River in Taranaki, Parkvale Stream in the Ruamahanga River catchment in Wellington, the Motupipi River in Tasman and the Mataura River, Oreti River, Waimatuku Stream, Aparima River and Waihopai River in Southland.

Also, by mid 2022, all farmers taking 20 litres of water a second or more will need to install telemetry with users of water over five litres a second required to install the monitors by 2026.

By 2035 regional councils will be required to have completed plans to improve freshwater ecosystem health including objectives, targets and time frames.

“The impact will depend on the region’s targets for water quality and the time lines for achieving them with the time lines expected to extend over decades,” it said.

BakerAg director Chris Garland and fellow director and farmer Sully Alsop and East Coast Rural Support Trust counsellor Sarah Donaldson met Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor and officials last week.

They used the meeting to reinforce concerns raised in an earlier open letter Garland wrote to senior ministers about the pressure the Government’s

environmental policy is having on the mental health of farmers and the wellbeing of the pastoral sector.

Garland declined to comment further.

But in notes released after the meeting the group told O’Connor depression and suicide rates are rising in the rural sector, not helped by farmers being overwhelmed by the rate and magnitude of change and the degree of restructuring required in complex biological systems.

They asked for farmers to be part of any solution and suggested forming working parties of farmers to develop workable and practical solutions by farm class and region.

They also asked for a change in narrative coming out of Government and to create heroes or role models to demonstrate best practice to the wider sector.

O’Connor was asked to stagger policy implementation, to define what integrated farm plans look like and for them to be a positive exercise for farmers.

They also pointed out the freshwater submission process is intimidating and farmers feel alienated from society as questions are asked about their social licence to farm.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

11

Research targets drought impact Colin Williscroft colin.williscroft@globalhq.co.nz THE potential economic impact of climate changedriven drought on rural communities and how to plan for it is the subject of new research.

Research co-leaders Dr Lynn Riggs of Motu Economic and Public Policy Research and Dr Kendon Bell of Landcare Research are investigating the effect of climate change-driven drought on vulnerable communities.

They will use historical data to establish a broad brush relationship between drought intensity and economic measures like farm profits and rural unemployment.

The research will use climate predictions from NIWA to simulate future implications of climatedriven drought on farms and communities.

It will use those predictions and information from what has happened during past droughts to consider what might happen in the future to things like local spending, income, wages and employment. It will examine where labour goes and whether it returns along with what drought does to agriculture, food production, land values and debt.

Drought, in particular, is a really complex issue and has a massive web of inter-related impacts.

Dr Lynn Riggs Motu Economic and Public Policy Research Riggs said her aim is to understand what happens to people at ground zero then how those impacts reverberate out to others in their communities.

She expects the first to feel the effects will be farm workers as farmers tighten their belts and the impact will spread from there.

The research will improve the ability to plan for and avoid the worst should climate change-driven drought become a reality.

It will provide information for decision makers to use if they need to weigh up where the best places are to target efforts to address the ripple effect of reduced farmer spending.

NZ’s agricultural land is highly valued and part of the reason for that is the mild, moist climate.

A changing climate, including worse or more frequent droughts, poses a big risk to those land assets and, therefore, makes rural communities vulnerable.

“Vulnerable communities will be most at risk when climate change comes to bear.

“Drought, in particular, is a really complex issue and has a massive web of inter-related impacts.

“My job in this project is to figure out how rural businesses, local economies and farming communities will be economically and personally affected by climate-driven drought.”

Parts of NZ that have experienced more frequent drought in the past may be better placed to deal with it in the future compared to parts that have not because those experiences may help them be better prepared for what could happen.

Although Riggs and Bell will look at similar overseas research to see what approaches were used, their 12-month project will focus on NZ data.

There has been very little research into the implications of climate change on NZ society using approaches that measure the historical relationship between weather and economic and social outcomes.

Bell said the rural sector is very important to NZ and no other group’s livelihood depends so heavily on the weather and climate.

“Rural communities may bear a large share of the

burden of reducing emissions and our job is to try and understand, using real financial data, the size of the additional burden (or benefit) that climate change might impose.”

Once they have done the research Riggs and Bell will meet stakeholders, including rural representatives, to discuss their findings and ensure they are relevant and practical.

The information will then be rolled out in a variety of ways so that it can be accessed by as wide an audience as possible.

INSIGHT: Dr Kendon Bell, pictured, and Dr Lynn Riggs are doing research to gauge the impacts of drought on rural communities.

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News

12 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

Farmers are hurting, LIC told Alan Williams alan.williams@globalhq.co.nz DAIRY genetics group LIC was questioned about prices and service quality at its annual meeting in New Plymouth.

One farmer-shareholder agreed with the co-operative company’s view its shares listed on the NZX are showing a good return on investment but beyond that dairy farmers are going through a bad time.

The rule of thumb is that to run a good business farmers costs must take up only about half their gross income, based on a $6.35/kg MS milk price, he said.

However, Dairy NZ figures indicate running costs for many dairy farmers are $3.80 to $5/kg MS, well above half their income.

“As a counter argument to the shareholder returns, how do we afford your services?” he asked LIC chairman Murray King at Thursday’s meeting.

The shareholder also said he had bought a top-of-the-line Protrack Vantage drafting system from LIC Automation, with a $2000-a-year running fee but has now been told he will have to meet the capital cost of an upgrade, questioning how LIC can justify that.

Another shareholder questioned LIC’s customer service and back-

ANSWER: LIC chairman Murray King defended prices, saying it needs decent income to provide necessary herd improvement genetics.

up help for farmer customers, saying there have been problems with herd-testing and a lack of supervision with AI processes.

King was also questioned over holding the annual meeting at 3.30pm when a lot of dairy farmers were busy milking and whether that had been designed to ensure a low turnout. King said whenever and wherever LIC held its annual meeting it was always

IMPROVE: LIC is enhancing customer service by investing more in operations and service delivery.

criticised for the timing.

He acknowledged dairy farmers are hurting even with a relatively high and internationally competitive milk price and industry morale is not where it needs to be, with signs the public is not supporting dairying in New Zealand.

But he defended LIC’s prices saying it needs decent funding to ensure it can provide the herd improvement genetics the industry needs.

He also said LIC’s charges are a small part of a dairy farmer’s overall costs.

Though it is not doing so now

LIC has previously provided deferred payments for farmers to help them through difficult trading times.

A chart presented at the meeting shows at the current share price of 86c on the NZX, LIC’s annual dividend provides an 18% gross yield to farmershareholders after imputation credits. NZX records show the group’s share price has risen 34% this year and 56% in the last three years.

On the upgrade of the Vantage automated system chief executive Wayne McNee said it has to move to a new system because the Windows 7 programme it uses will be obsolete by 2022.

“Farmers will need to move to a new version and we are looking at the issues. The issue is raised regularly with us and we will make it as easy as we can.”

One of the problems is that LIC Automation is not making any money.

On customer service and backup, he said the group is putting more investment into operations and service delivery with more permanent staff and working to make improvements from last season. It is starting to get good feedback on herd-testing.

King acknowledged the frustrations, saying farmershareholders deserve the best customer service.

Earlier, he told shareholders the co-operative had a good 2018-19 year and is making good progress on its strategic road map.

“A lot of work has been done

since 2016 to put us on an even keel.”

The business transformation has been paid for, LIC is getting good, strong sales, the business continues to grow and there is a strong research and development spend.

And there is great demand for A2 dairy genetics.

Underlying after-tax earnings, excluding the bull team valuation, were $19.5 million and $15.6m was returned to shareholders in dividends.

“That was a shot in the arm for the dairy community. It is difficult out there.”

LIC forecasts underlying earnings growth this year to between $21m and $25m.

King said the co-operative is still waiting for the Government to complete changes to the DIRA legislation. LIC wants to be unshackled from ministerial controls.

McNee also referred to the difficult time for dairy farmers and said LIC is determined to help mitigate disruptions the industry faces.

The operating focus is 60% on optimising the core dairy genetics business, 30% on enhancing that through innovation and 10% on capturing value beyond the core business.

LIC provides 80% of dairy farm semen services in NZ. McNee said digital innovation is crucial for the group and more than a billion pieces of on-farm data are stored on Amazon and Microsoft Cloud services.

CASH: LIC says its charges are only a small part of farmers’ costs.

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

13

Farmers the only group able to fix the river Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz FARMERS were the only group prepared to reverse the declining quality of Otago’s Pomahaka River.

Recalling the establishment of the Pomahaka Water Care Group in 2014 at the recent South Island Dairy Event, West Otago farmer Lloyd McCall says the Otago Regional Council and Landcare Trust weren’t going to improve the river’s water quality.

“It’s got to be by farmers,” McCall says.

“You couldn’t fix it by rules.”

In about 2012 the council identified issues with nitrate and E coli levels, especially in the lower reaches, which prompted the Landcare Trust to get all stakeholders together to try to address the problem.

The Pomahaka flows from the Old Man Range to the Clutha River, fed by a 2020 square kilometre catchment and through 304 farms.

In most cases farmers were ignorant of their impact on the ecological and biodiversity values on their farms.

McCall recalls Conservation Department staff visiting his farm and showing him native galaxiid fish in waterways.

He and five other farmers met to discuss the water quality problem and came up with a plan and established the Pomahaka Water Care Group.

At its peak the group had 160 members.

Its aim is for the river to have the highest-quality water so future generations can enjoy it as this generation has and that meant a whole of catchment approach because all farms can affect water quality.

But that did not preclude enabling profitable and sustainable agriculture.

The group’s plan involved testing water samples at various points along the river’s 80km to define the extent of the issue and the problem spots.

So 28 sites are sampled four times a year which also lets farmers relate to how their activities and management affect the water.

“You haven’t got a problem until you know you have got a problem.”

You haven’t got a problem until you know you have got a problem.

Lloyd McCall Pomahaka Water Care Group The group started raising awareness and launched a regular media campaign promoting farm management steps to reduce water degradation, such as ways to prevent sediment runoff.

“It is all about taking ownership.”

That includes highlighting excellent as well as poor farm practices while showing interested groups such as scientists and academics what farmers are doing.

Farmers are encouraged to confront non-compliers and the group has members prepared to approach those not following best practice.

Riparian planting has been significant for farmers and to

ensure they have enough trees and shrubs the group has established its own native nursery with 22,000 plants ready to be sent to farmers.

Further work includes crop leaching and infiltration rate trials and more work on wetland traps.

McCall says improvement has not been as desired for phosphorus but other nutrients are trending positively.

Alister Body farms sheep and deer and grazes dairy cows on 380ha near Tapanui. His farm has six main discharge points into the river. The quality of some was fine but others not so.

Water testing showed what had to be done but his main focus was minimising the movement of sediment over his land after rain, the main source of phosphorus and E coli.

He has also fenced all but 100m of his farm’s 3.5km river frontage and takes care managing areas where discharge or critical source is not great.

That means refencing his deer unit to reduce or minimise the impact of tracking and wallows, the selection of paddocks for winter cropping and the class of stock being run in steep paddocks.

Body has also changed his cultivation methods, avoiding critical source areas and establishing sediment traps and containment areas.

That involves slowing runoff or running it into traps to recover sediment.

He has built a network of multiple traps or wetlands in several paddocks into which runoff is channeled to collect sediment.

Body says they must be cleaned out and he is soil-testing the sediment to see if it has any nutrient value.

FOCUS: Farmer Alister Body has put his focus on slowing the movement of sediment.

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News

14 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

Farmers must review their banking deals Annette Scott annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz

THINK ABOUT IT: With Australian banks looking to cut farm debt farmers must consider their options, including changing banks, accountant Pita Alexander says.

NOT only is the world getting more complicated, it is getting more uncertain and volatile so everyone has to dig in with their own business and family decision-making, accountancy and agribusiness director Pita Alexander says.

He highlights a few business issues and suggestions that might help farmers and rural communities manage their way through all manner of proposals for new taxes, regulations and restrictions including the Action for Healthy Waterways discussion document.

The Australian banking industry, which controls about 85% of the New Zealand banking industry, wants NZ farming to start reducing its term debt. Its idea of a long-term loan is 20 years and it wants to see any term loan being able to be repaid over that period.

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Alexander said that calculates at 5% a year but about 2% a year would fully stretch most NZ farming operations.

“Term debt is not income tax deductible so, in many cases, 1% will be flat out. What’s the message here? Plan for it,” Alexander said.

Paying things monthly is easier on cashflow but multiply the monthly figure by 12 every so often and the annual cost might surprise farmers and change some decisions or actions as a result.

Farmers shouldn’t be annoyed by the fact the bank term loan they moved onto a fixed rate basis a few months ago could now be fixed at a slightly lower rate again.

“The key with fixing is to be very near the bottom of the curve, right at the bottom of the curve would be pure luck. It is a good example of heading for excellence rather than perfection.

“Your and my bank margin fees with our term debts is on the rise.

You won’t read much about this but work on it coming.”

Alexander said maintaining a good, long-term relationship with your bank and bank manager is usually the right action. Every now and then, though, with interest payments probably being the highest business cost, then a change in banks might be a key strategic move.

“The problem usually is, at what point is this change worthwhile in your particular situation. The answer partly will depend upon your level of term debt borrowing.”

A 10% drop when total debt is $1 million and the interest rate is 4.8% and farmers might be able to replace it at 4.3%, an annual saving of $5000. But if debt is $3m then the saving is $15,000.

“What’s the message here?

Do your homework carefully and discuss it with your present bank manager to give him or her a chance to narrow the gap or match the gap.

“In some situations, though, the advantage from change is too big to back away from,” Alexander said.

“The cost of irrigation from a farming perspective is starting to frighten me, particularly with the newly developed schemes.

“We are close to $1000 per hectare each and every year plus consent and regulatory issues of often $100/ha.”

Water storage is another crucial and essential issue but for many to cope with the costs they need $150 a lamb, $4500 a hectare cropping and $6.75/kg dairying.

There is no halfway house regarding advice, don’t get this wrong, top advisers on all issues are a must for yourself, family and business.

Pita Alexander Regulatory and compliance work is driving some business people mad and it is getting worse.

If farmers don’t enjoy doing something then they won’t do it well but that type of administration done poorly will come back and bite them badly, Alexander said.

“If you are in this group then see if you can contract it out to somebody competent.

“Yes, it will be an annoying cost but it may still be the better option.

“If there is somebody who is good at it and even likes this stuff in your locality that offers their services on a business basis then providing they have integrity, have a discussion with them.”

Alexander said some people have a helicopter view of their future financial affairs and their business while other people get only about a week ahead of themselves at the most.

“In today’s economic and financial environment getting only a week or so ahead of yourself is no way to live.

“If you are under real pressure on this issue share the pain and develop a better plan with one or two key forward-thinking and successful people – don’t just turn the issues over and over in your mind.

“There is no halfway house regarding advice. Sure, top advice will cost more but quality always prevails even if it may take longer.

“Don’t get this wrong, top advisers on all issues are a must for yourself, family and business,” Alexander said.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

Tatua ahead of the rest Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz

TATUA has put daylight between itself and other dairy exporters by declaring earnings of $9.66/kg milksolids, from which it will retain $1.16 and pay its 107 supply farms a milk price of $8.50 for last season.

It is the second-highest milk payout and was achieved on record annual income for the co-operative of $364 million, chief executive Brendhan Greaney said.

Tatua farmers received $2.15/ kg more than Fonterra farmers and have enjoyed an average premium of $1.40 over the past decade.

However, comparisons with Fonterra are not useful because they are completely different companies, Greaney said.

The small co-op has to go back to 2013-14, that extraordinary year for international dairy prices, to find a comparable result.

In that season the earnings before tax were $136m and on 13.2m kilograms collected the result was $10.32/kg, of which it paid out $9.

In the 2019 financial year

earnings were $140m and 14.5m kilograms milksolids were received, lower than the previous season because of extended, dry summer conditions.

Continued growth of valueadd businesses provided improved revenue and the bulk ingredient product mix of caseinates, whey protein concentrates and anhydrous milk fat performed well despite mixed market conditions.

Greaney said the Tatuanui plant is configured to cope with 15m kilograms intake annually and farmers know what cow numbers will deliver that supply.

Already this season the milk collection has set a new daily record, on September 23, and total intake is 7% ahead of last year.

It remains to be seen if weather conditions in Waikato will provide a further surge in daily milk production in October.

The daily capacity of Tatuanui is governed by the optimum product mix for specialised ingredients because the value-add products are batchprocessed from recombined and cream products.

THE Social Credit political party has filed papers in the High Court at Wellington seeking a judicial review of the Overseas Investment Office decision to grant approval for the takeover of Westland Milk Products by Chinese conglomerate Inner Mongolian Yili.

Party Leader Chris Leitch said the party is concerned that the OIO might have failed to apply a much stricter set of criteria under the Overseas Investment Act, which would have seen ministers and not the OIO make the final decision.

The Ministerial Directive to the OIO in November 2017 clearly set out criteria on how such applications should be considered.

It said “The merits of overseas investment in the primary sector can be less compelling given that we are already world leaders in this area.”

Leitch said “Few would disagree and it is important for kiwis to have confidence that the OIO, which is the gatekeeper for overseas investment in this country, is applying the rules properly.

“There’s a tidal wave of applications from overseas entities that want to snap up the best agricultural land and agricultural and horticultural businesses that New Zealand has so we’re taking a stand on the issue.

“Our view is that’s not good for the long term future of New Zealanders so we’re putting a stake in the ground,” he said.

season ahead our optimism is tempered by continuing volatility in the global trade arena.

“In addition, uncertainty around emerging domestic policies on both climate change and freshwater management have real potential to undermine investment confidence,” Tatua said in a statement.

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Debt gearing averaged 32% during the year and finished at 27%.

“While we remain optimistic in our outlook for dairy and the

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16 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

News

Council broadens funding criteria Colin Williscroft colin.williscroft@globalhq.co.nz THE Manawatu-Whanganui Regional Council (Horizons) has come up with new ways for farmers to pay for work to protect erosion-prone land.

It has changed the eligibility criteria for landowners to sign up to its Sustainable Land Use Initiative.

The council now has money for one-off jobs on farms that do not have a sustainable land use whole farm plan and there is more money for properties with existing plans and Whanganui Catchment Strategy plans.

Council natural resources and partnerships manager Jon Roygard said the new criteria mean landowners without a whole farm plan are eligible for support for erosion control on priority land.

They might have only a small area needing attention but the change provides access to funding.

The programme aims to deliver 90,000 hectares of new whole farm plans and 13,665 hectares of erosion control work over the next four years.

“SLUI builds farm resilience to

storms and helps improve water quality by keeping sediment out of streams and rivers,” he said.

“The programme has been very successful over the 12 years it has been under way, establishing over 740 whole farm plans across an area of 552,000 hectares and completing 36,000 hectares of erosion control work.”

The programme has been very successful over the 12 years it has been under way, establishing over 740 whole farm plans across an area of 552,000 hectares and completing 36,000 hectares of erosion control work.

Roygard said the council has secured $6.4 million for the next four years from the Ministry for Primary Industries’ hill country erosion fund and is working to further increase the amount of work on the ground.

In the year to June 570 erosion control jobs were completed through SLUI and the council’s land programme, with landowners doing more than 3600 hectares of erosion control work, which included planting 2.3 million trees and establishing 156km of fencing, catchment operations committee chairman David Cotton said.

“Our funding can contribute towards these activities as well as sediment traps, reversion of land in pasture to native cover and retiring of existing bush remnants.

SLUI is definitely a great mechanism to assist with works on-farm to help landowners move towards evolving regulation.”

Farmers are asked for a contribution to work done on their properties.

If it comes under the hill country erosion fund MPI and the council might cover up to 70% of the cost while funding of other work can be at ratios of 50:50 or 30:70.

Roygard said with changes to freshwater regulations proposed, now is a good time for farmers to act.

“While we don’t know where the legislation is going, this is a great opportunity to get ahead.”

ACT NOW: Manawatu-Whanganui Regional Council natural resources and partnerships manager Jon Roygard says more farmers in the region can access funding for erosion control.

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farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

17

Trade-offs in the 5G rural roll-out SHARING infrastructure might be vital in getting 5G mobile technology to remote regions, even if it poses issues, the Commerce Commission says.

The 5G technology is potentially transformative but will need network operators to invest at a time when profits are constrained by flat revenue.

But the investment profile might change given the heightened prospect of network operators sharing infrastructure.

Sharing can reduce the cost of deploying a network but might also reduce competition, which can spill over into higher prices and less innovation.

“The trade-off between the costs of deployment and infrastructure competition may become more pronounced given the potential densification of cell sites required for 5G,” it said in a report on the performance of the mobile market. However, those arrangements are likely to facilitate 5G coverage, particularly in more rural areas.

The Rural Connectivity Group, a tie-up between Spark, Vodafone and 2degrees, could play a key role in hitting more remote regions.

The group plans to deploy 520 cell sites and share spectrum to improve rural coverage as part of a Government initiative, which the commission said could be reused to deploy 5G technology more cheaply.

“In this way it is possible that it will be economic to provide 5G services in areas where it might otherwise be uneconomic.”

The group’s structure is covered under existing telecommunications law, meaning future arrangements might not need authorisation by the commission.

Any new infrastructure sharing deals to back a 5G roll-out might cover access for third parties so the commission expects to receive any proposals causing competition concerns.

COMPROMISE: Rural areas might get 5G technology if telecommunications firms share resources but that might mean less competition and higher prices.

“It is not unmanly or uncool to think about your health and safety on farm – it could save a precious life.”

KAREN WILLIAMS Farmer and Federated Farmers Arable Industry Group Chairperson

In this way it is possible that it will be economic to provide 5G services in areas where it might otherwise be uneconomic.

Commerce Commission Spark has switched on the first 5G wireless broadband in Alexandra and will roll that out to five other towns before Christmas.

It expects its capital investment in building the 5G network can be met by its existing envelope of 10-11% of revenue and has forecast total capital spending of $370 million in the year ending June 30.

It spent $417m in the June year, of which $118m was on its mobile network.

Vodafone’s capital spending programme is forecast to rise to $300-$350m in the March 2020 year, up from $253m in 2019. The country’s biggest mobile carrier is poised to switch on a 5G

network in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown in December.

Earlier this year Infratil chief executive and Vodafone NZ chairman Marko Bogoievski said the nation can’t afford to invest billions in new technology when there are opportunities to rationalise that spending through co-operation and sharing.

Telecommunications Commissioner Stephen Gale said the allocation of spectrum in the upcoming auctions will be of particular importance to future competition.

“In our view there is a need for wholesale and retail competition matters to be at the forefront of decisions relating to the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment’s upcoming allocation of 5G spectrum,” he said.

The report also repeated an earlier warning excluding Chinese supplier Huawei Technologies from the 5G rollout could affect the development of competition and the scheme’s overall cost.

– BusinessDesk

Vet bonding extended Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz NEARLY a third of the 32 graduate vets to benefit from the Government’s voluntary bonding scheme will work in Waikato.

Veterinary practices in Waikato will get 12 vets and Otago six with four each going to Southland and ManawatuWhanganui. Canterbury gets three with one each going to Marlborough, Northland and Taranaki.

The Ministry for Primary Industries voluntary bonding scheme is designed to ease the

shortage of vets working with production animals in regional practices.

Each bonded graduate gets $55,000 spread over five years.

MPI investment programmes director Steve Penno said the programme was extended this year from 30 graduates to 32 and will cost $1.76 million over five years.

Since its started in 2009, 318 graduates have been through the programme.

“Vets play a vital role in our primary industries and rural communities,” Penno said.

“The voluntary bonding

scheme for veterinarians is a key way of attracting skilled workers to hard-to-staff veterinary practices in the regions and giving graduates an early boost to their careers.”

Veterinary Association chief veterinarian officer Dr Helen Beattie said the association supports the extra two extra places in the scheme.

“Anecdotal feedback from our members suggests the ongoing veterinary shortage is a significant issue, including for regional practices with a production animal focus.”

So the association will also support further expansion.

worksafe.govt.nz

News

18 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

Action groups motivate farmers WORKING together to gain access to high-level agriculture and business expertise is already leading to efficiency gains for a group of Hawke’s Bay farmers, rural consultant Sean Bennett says.

Bennett facilitates two Red Meat Profit Partnership action groups and is working with farmers to set up several more.

The RMPP action network supports small groups of seven to nine farm businesses working together to explore ideas and share expert resources to help make positive on-farm changes.

Kick-start funding of $4000 a farm is pooled to fund facilitation and expertise.

“My role is to put the group in front of the right expertise and advice and facilitate the discussion to allow them to make informed decisions,” Bennett, who farmed sheep and beef on the east coast for 17 years before studying business and accounting and becoming a rural consultant. said.

“Then I work with the group to achieve the outcomes and goals set at our initial planning session.

“The RMPP funding is very good, targeted funding for farmers to use to really deep dive into the topics they want to know about.

“For instance, one of my groups is focused on bringing efficiencies into their businesses.

“They are really flying.

“For example, as a result of expertise being shared via the group they now have the potential to save thousands in fertiliser costs.

“They are analysing their farm businesses a lot more, particularly around discretionary expenditure and cost structure.

“They have a far better understanding around using farm business software and they are looking at what is really driving the profit in their business rather than what they think is driving ADVERTISEMENT

FACILITATOR: Farmers in Red Meat Profit Partnership action groups are really flying, consultant Sean Bennett says.

Photo: Michael Schultz Photography

it. When they spend a dollar now they want to know what they are getting for their dollar.”

That group has eight members, ranging in age from their 30s to 50s, who live between 40 to 60 minutes by road from one another.

“Initially, they were very production-focused but that evolved.

“We aim to get together every couple of months and for the very first one I took them to a largescale multi enterprise business which was different from the group’s normal business as usual.

“After spending time gaining a picture of the business we used a SWAT analysis to identify the strengths, weaknesses and threats to the business. They came up with something very similar to what the business owner had produced. What was really impressive is the group accurately

analysed a multi enterprise business after only two hours onfarm.

“The challenge to the group was to take the learning and apply it to their own businesses.

“They decided to shift their focus to what would bring efficiencies into their business.

“Things have moved very fast and they have done that themselves. They are very driven and they are really throwing ideas around.”

Experts Bennett has found to work with the group include Paul Holden from Seed Force with a question-and-answer format to talk about cropping. Another session with Holden is planned.

Farm nutrient adviser Melinda Turner from Nutri-Link Farm Nutrient Management also ran a session.

Before meeting Turner the farmers provided her with recent

soil tests for their properties. She analysed them individually and made recommendations.

“I also provided a sample, from an unrelated farm, which highlighted a classic example of throwing money down the drain through incorrect use of fertiliser.

“Until then, for those in the group who had undertaken soil sampling, it had only been with their fertiliser company reps.

“Melinda taught the group how to understand the relationship between nutrients and when to dive deeper into the results and what questions to ask.

Group members now see value in investing in soil and herbage analysis more deeply because they recognise the advantages and they are seeing the benefits from that on-farm.”

The group also wanted to find out more about working with Xero, particularly the Figured farm

management app. While all but one of the group had Xero, not all had used the farming app.

“We got Sudeshan (Suds) Mudali, Figured’s customer success specialist, in to demonstrate the product, outline Figured`s long-term strategy and answer the group’s questions.

“They got a lot of value out of the session with group members now up and running using Figured.

“We are planning a benchmarking project around developing key KPIs for individual group members and their business.

“Suds is going to come back and look at what people need going forward for benchmarking operations.”

Bennett is also encouraging the group to do the Taking Ownership of Your Financials workshop that aims to help farmers better understand their financial statements, how they are structured and where to find key information.

“They are also keen to do some work around personal development so we are aiming to bring in leadership coach Corene Walker.

“I know the groups I work with would urge any farmers to take up the opportunity to be part of an action group because it’s awesome to see the outcomes of being able to bring in some really grunty advice – made possible by the pooled funding.

“You can go much deeper than you would in a discussion group because in a small group people can say ‘can we hear a bit more on that’. It enables people to go at their own pace.

“These farmers have changed their thinking.

“They are so much more confident to try new things in their businesses because they know that if they need advice and support there is someone to go to and others to bounce ideas off.

LEGAL TALK with Barbara McDermott Tenant remains liable to landlord after transfer of lease

Barbara McDermott Phone 07 834 6159 barbara.mcdermott@nwm.co.nz

outstanding rent and repair costs from Henry.

Henry went to see his lawyer. Henry’s lawyer advised him he would be liable for the outstanding rent and penalty interest to the date Alice cancelled the lease, Alice’s legal costs, the costs of repairs and the shortfall in rent until the end of the three year term.

Henry was shocked to find the total amount owing was nearly $25,000 and he was liable for this amount even though he was no longer leasing the land.

Liability of tenant on assignment The Property Law Act 2007 provides that, on any transfer or assignment of a lease after 1 January 2008, the transferor or assignor of the lease remains liable to the landlord for payment of the rent and performance of all the tenant’s obligations under the lease. If the lease is varied (and the variation was not provided for in the lease at the time of assignment), the previous tenant will not be liable to the extent of the variation. If the lease is surrendered or renewed, the previous tenant will no longer be liable.

However, if the lease is extended and that extension

www.nwm.co.nz

is provided for in the lease, then the tenant will remain liable during the extension. If the tenant remains in possession with the landlord’s consent after the expiry date, then the original tenant will remain liable until the lease is terminated. All of this can be changed by the landlord and tenant by providing differently in the lease document.

What can you learn from this?

Any agreement to lease (including a variation or assignment of the lease) should be recorded in writing and legal advice taken before it is made. As a tenant you should fully understand the extent of your obligations and potential liability under the lease. If possible you should try and exclude or limit your liability if you assign your lease – although most landlords won’t agree to this. You should also ensure that the person taking over your lease has the financial resources and ability to meet the tenant’s obligations under the lease.

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It’s a common misconception that if you transfer (or assign) your lease to a new tenant you will have nothing further to do with the lease and will no longer be liable to the landlord. However, the fact is you are liable to the landlord except in some circumstances. Henry learnt this lesson the hard way.

Landlord claims $25,000 from previous tenant Henry agreed to lease 25 hectares from Alice for cropping. Rent was $50,000 plus GST per annum.

Henry and Alice signed a lease for three years. Six months into the lease some land that was suitable for cropping came up for sale. Henry decided to buy that land and Tony agreed to take over Henry’s lease.

Unfortunately Tony got into financial difficulties and he couldn’t pay the rent. When the arrears of rent reached $15,000 and the property was in a state of disrepair, Alice cancelled the Lease (following the correct procedure set out in the Property Law Act 2007). Tony could not pay the arrears and Alice’s lawyer told her that she could recover the

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News

20 THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

Overseas worker boost too small Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz GROWERS expect more staff shortage in the horticulture sector because the Government has approved only half the Recognised Seasonal Employer workers needed.

Immigration Minister Iain LeesGalloway has approved an extra 3150 RSE workers over the next two years with 1550 this season and 1600 next year.

That takes the total number employed here this season to 14,400.

However, Kiwifruit Growers chief executive Nikki Johnson said the kiwifruit sector will get only about half its requested extra workers.

As an industry we have spent $30 million this year on new accommodation facilities.

Alan Pollard Pipfruit NZ RSE workers typically make up about 20% of the kiwifruit sector’s staff and last year accounted for 1550 workers.

“Kiwifruit Growers is currently in planning for the second year of a campaign to proactively attract Kiwis to work in the kiwifruit industry.”

But low unemployment makes it hard to fill all the jobs.

Last season the kiwifruit sector was estimated to be about 2000 staff short.

Accommodation for staff has been a factor holding back RSE worker numbers but the kiwifruit sector has made major inroads to address that.

In the past year 2282 new beds were created by the industry.

Much of the existing and planned accommodation is on orchard or pack-house sites that would not otherwise be used by New Zealanders requiring rental housing, ensuring the sector meets a ministerial decree not to put pressure on local housing stocks.

Seeka chief exeutive Michael Franks said he welcomes any increase. He is confident the extra 3000 workers can be easily absorbed by the kiwifruit sector alone.

“And that would not displace any Kiwi workers. Obviously, we would like to employ New Zealanders first but the RSE workers actually complement the local workforce.”

Franks said Seeka made do last season by having people work longer shifts. Jobs at the early and later ends of the season were particularly hard to fill.

“And it is very tight for staff for orchard work like pruning to be done on time and safely.”

Two years ago Lees-Galloway put some conditions on increasing RSE numbers.

They included requiring the horticultural sector to improve employment terms and conditions and provide accommodation specifically for RSE workers in areas where housing is squeezed.

Seeka is reviewing its facilities for staff and considering a new accommodation venture in Western Bay of Plenty for both RSE and seasonal workers.

Pipfruit NZ chief executive Alan Pollard said building rooms specifically for seasonal workers cost about $25,000 a head. The pipfruit industry has made major strides in heeding Lees-Galloway’s call for more accommodation.

“As an industry we have spent $30 million this year on new accommodation facilities.

In Hawke’s Bay, one area the Government has been historically concerned about, 1750 beds have come on stream for RSE workers.

We have done all the minister

has asked and expect to get the numbers (of workers).”

The pipfruit sector has been challenging the Government on the need for greater long-term planning on RSE numbers rather than the year-on-year adjustment that leaves the industry hanging on an outcome this time every year.

“We have still to make progress on this,” Pollard said.

He noted successive governments have done much to develop trade deals that open new markets for the horticultural sector but to meet those opportunities greater certainty around labour supply is essential.

Indications are the Pacific Islands continue to remain a rich resource for labour.

“As a scheme it is incredibly successful and growers are very proud about the impact the scheme has for these people’s lives back home.”

Growers prefer to employ more Kiwis but exceptionally tight local labour markets and low unemployment mean the numbers simply are not there.

Seasonal Solutions chief executive Helen Axby said the company is pleased about the increase but fears it will not be enough as demand continues to outstrip labour supply.

Her firm is a grower and contractor owned co-operative employing orchard staff in the South Island.

The South Island, in particular, has significant increases in demand from summer fruit including cherry orchards and vineyards, both experiencing major increases in planting areas.

More than 150ha of cherries alone have gone in the ground in Otago this year including a single planting of 80ha at Lindis Peak Station, with harvest expected in 2022.

Another two projects will have 120ha extra come on stream over the next two years.

WORKING IT: Orchard operators can easily absorb the extra Recognised Seasonal Employer workers offered this season, Pipfruit New Zealand chief executive Alan Pollard says.

Sliding trend to continue THE kiwi dollar rose marginally on the poor United States data impacting on US interest rates and currency but the trend lower remains intact, Westpac Bank strategist Imre Speizer says.

US manufacturing, payrolls and auto sales figures disappointed. The data might point to a recession there but is not bad enough to say there will be one.

Speculators are quite short on the kiwi dollar, one explanation for the pop higher.

Westpac believes the positive US dollar trend remains dominant in world markets and the lift in the kiwi is likely to stop short of US$0.64. Speizer expects it to be close to 0.61 by year-end.

With no sign of inflation in the NZ economy – inflation expectations are falling – the markets have fully priced in a 25 basis points cut in the OCR by the Reserve Bank in November and a partial chance of a bigger cut.

Westpac’s core view is one 25pb cut in November.

However, the Aussie dollar is strengthening against the kiwi because the RBNZ looks more prepared than the Reserve Bank of Australia to go to negative rates if the world economy worsens too much.

Speizer’s call is for the kiwi to be at A$0.90 by year-end. He forecasts the kiwi at E0.55 by then.

– Alan Williams

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

Spotlight is put on Maori agribusiness Luke Chivers luke.chivers@globalhq.co.nz NEW farmer-to-farmer extension groups have been launched by the Government to help Maori agribusinesses.

Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor said the four-year initiative, dubbed Maori Agribusiness Extension, is a farmer-led, farmer-focused approach to working together to tackle challenges.

It brings a new option for partnering with Maori, O’Connor said.

“We know Maori owners, trustees and managers get a lot of value from kanohi ki te kanohi (face-toface) engagement and being able to develop their understanding, ideas and plans together.”

In Budget 2019 the Government announced a $229 million Sustainable Land Use package.

As part of that $12m was committed to ensure Maori landowners and agribusinesses have the tools, support systems and information to use their land in a way that works for them and within the context of their kaupapa, O’Connor said.

“We aim to help Maori owners achieve their economic, environmental, social and cultural aspirations for their whanau through sustainable development of their primary sector assets.”

The Whangaparaoa Maori Lands Trust is first cab off the rank.

“This is a grouping of 10 Maori land organisations that are looking to explore the potential of their land.

“Together they will investigate a range of landuse options.”

The Primary Industries Ministry is also partnering with DairyNZ to deliver an extension programme to the Maori Agribusiness Extension eastern Bay of Plenty dairy cluster of five Maori dairy farms between Torere and Whangaparaoa.

“They are quite a distance from many services, which has implications for their farming activities,” O’Connor said.

“This group is looking to make system changes to future-proof their farming operations.

“Enabling Maori landowners and agribusiness to realise their aspirations contributes directly to the development of NZ’s regional economies and NZ as a whole.”

SUPPORT: The Maori extension groups launched at Whangaparaoa will help Maori agribusinesses achieve their goals, Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor says.

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Newsmaker

22 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

Blanket rules won’t fix water With the prospect of new water rules the country is debating how best to improve water quality. Colin Williscroft visited a Whanganui farmer for a first-hand account of how he and his neighbours are already tackling the issue.

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types and mix of agriculture and horticulture. Every waterway has its own characteristics.”

The Whangaehu/Mangawhero catchment group was formed earlier this year.

An initial public meeting attracted 65 farmers, along with half a dozen apologies, which meant 85% of the targeted catchment, an area of about 200,000ha, was represented at the meeting.

The group is targeting the river’s lower and mid reaches, the Whangaehu flood plain up to the mid reaches of the hill country.

The farmers involved want to understand what the main water quality issues are and what areas farms need to focus on to reduce their impact.

Sediment is the number one focus, with a high proportion of the catchment high-risk hill country.

Committee member Rob Craig described catchment groups as where science and practical farming come together to produce positive outcomes.

It’s about transferring knowledge and targeted outcomes for each catchment to solutions farmers can implement.

The aim is to get farmers thinking about their environmental footprint throughout their day-to-day management, just like they do with pasture quality, stock management and a whole lot of other pieces of the puzzle, every day.

ARMERS want clean waterways and need to be actively engaged at ground level if freshwater quality is to be improved, Whanganui farmer Mike Cranstone says.

Cranstone, a member of the recently formed Whangaehu/ Mangawhero river catchment group, said farmers in his and similar groups are making good progress understanding issues specific to their areas and are coming up with strategies and actions to reduce their impact on waterways.

They are proud of their progress and achievements made.

“It would be a shame to lose that by having blanket rules and denting the enthusiasm of farmers by saying they are doing it wrong.”

Farmers are results based and like to see outcomes.

“New Zealand farmers are the best in the world at innovation – give them a problem and they will come up with a solution, whether that’s through management techniques or adopting technology.”

Farmers working together in groups to address local environmental issues are more likely to find the best outcomes by targeting solutions to specific problems than by being forced to follow a blanket approach.

What will work in one catchment will not necessarily work in another.

“Every area has its own soil

FOCUSED: Farmers are committed to improving the quality of fresh water around their properties, Mike Cranstone says.

Peer pressure is very effective.

Farmers are the best ones to motivate their neighbours to do things.

Mike Cranstone Farmer For that to happen it has to be a positive experience and progress and achievements have to be celebrated to maintain motivation.

“Farmers are proud of what they achieve on their farms, whether it is how the property looks or their stock. They want to leave things in better shape for the next generation.”

He acknowledges his group is probably about five years behind

in addressing the challenges but members are committed to making improvements.

“Our challenge is to get the regulators to trust us and have confidence that farmers are focused on this, to recognise farmers and to work with individual farmers.

“We have to show that we are engaged and we are walking the walk.

“Hopefully, science can highlight that we are making progress. We are turning around water quality.”

However, it’s not just about farmers, the whole community needs to be involved.

“Whether that’s the local school potentially growing some native plants or getting involved in the planting or incorporating water quality monitoring in their maths and science curriculum.”

It is also important to involve the recreational users of waterways so everyone is engaged

and working towards a common goal.

Cranstone can understand public scepticism about to the ability of a catchment group to put pressure on farmers to comply with water quality goals but he is confident it can be done.

“Peer pressure is very effective.

“Farmers are the best ones to motivate their neighbours to do things.”

It is often underestimated how many on-farm decisions are a result of farmers looking over their fence and seeing what their neighbour is doing.

“Nobody likes being the last one on the bus. And for those that are, well that’s where the stick is needed.”

He said 80% of progress is often down to making small changes, by having farmers focused on targeted outcomes.

“It’s the small things that farmers do every day that will achieve the best outcomes.”

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THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

23

No flower power for ryegrass Scientists believe ryegrass that does not flower in the paddock has multiple benefits and a $1 million research a grant could make such cultivars a reality. Neal Wallace talks to Otago University researcher Richard Macknight about the project.

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RODUCING ryegrass that doesn’t flower in the field could lead to more productive pasture and reduce the burden of managing it, researchers say.

Two Otago University biochemistry scientists have been given $1m by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s Endeavour Fund’s Smart Ideas programme to try to do that.

Associate Professor Richard Macknight and Dr Lynette Brownfield, with input from AgResearch, will search ryegrass genes to try to breed a variety that does not flower in farm pasture.

Macknight says the goal is to identify the relevant genes and breed non-flowing grass. The technology will be made available to plant breeders.

Removing flowering will extend the growing season, maintain the pasture’s nutritional value and provide significant benefits from not having to manage quality through grazing or mechanical topping, especially from spring

BLOOMING NUISANCE: Ryegrass in flower.

to autumn when plants naturally want to flower.

“The successful development of ryegrass cultivars that don’t flower in field conditions will extend peak production, enabling farmers to use farmland more efficiently,” he says.

“That will increase productivity, making the reduction of land use more financially viable, thereby reducing environmental impact.”

He doubts removing the ability to flower will reduce ryegrass persistence.

DairyNZ says few new ryegrass plants emerge in established pasture through seed germination.

The perennial nature of ryegrass is dependent on developing new tillers because a tiller lives for only a year.

That mostly occurs in spring and autumn and every time a new leaf is produced so too is a new tiller bud which stays dormant till conditions are right for it to grow.

Macknight says gene technology has reached a point where researchers can search for genes in existing ryegrass species to find the genes responsible for

NO FLOWERS: Otago University scientists Dr Lynette Brownfield and Associate Professor Richard Macknight want to develop a ryegrass that doesn’t flower on farms.

provoking flowering.

“There have been recent advances in our genetic understanding of how flowering is controlled and we are using this knowledge as a starting point to discover the key genes required to prevent ryegrass flowering on the farm.”

The process they will follow is not genetic engineering.

Macknight says flowering is triggered by cold and scientists will specifically look at ryegrass species grown in exceptionally cold climates such as Japan and Russia to enhance their knowledge ahead of tackling species grown in NZ. “If a ryegrass variety that we help develop ends up being grown

by New Zealand farmers and it helps farming become more sustainable then that would be tremendous. That’s the ultimate goal,” he says.

Brownfield says suppressing flowering means seeds won’t be produced for farmers to plant.

“So, to get around this problem we are aiming to develop a plant that can be induced to flower for seed production under artificial conditions but will not flower when grown on NZ farms.”

“This is an exciting time to do

If a ryegrass variety that we help develop ends up being grown by New Zealand farmers and it helps farming become more sustainable then that would be tremendous, that’s the ultimate goal.

Professor Richard Macknight Otago University this type of research,” Macknight says.

“There is so much we know about gene control traits but by putting it into breeding we can make a real difference.”

Opinion

24 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

EDITORIAL

Fonterra sets sail for new success

F

ONTERRA’S farmers are reportedly pleased with the direction and principles of the co-operative’s reset strategy.

It was going to contain few surprises and be broadly acceptable because chairman John Monaghan and senior executives had signalled major elements beforehand and farmers’ representatives had been consulted. The new strategy was necessary to rebuild confidence in Fonterra’s recovery and it has been mostly sideline-critics so far who have found it less than convincing.

As with any major company, the mainstream activities of processing, selling, exporting and marketing will continue as before. Chief executive Miles Hurrell said the strategy directs where Fonterra spends its discretionary dollars. Therefore, it is a bit rich to include among the priorities for this year an intention to inject $10 billion into rural communities through competitive milk price payments. That happens every year and hasn’t really been in question since the disastrous 2015-16 season. For the glasshalf-full farmer three successive $6-plus payouts and the likelihood of a fourth to come demonstrate, firstly, why Fonterra exists and is supported and, secondly, that NZ grass-fed milk has superior qualities.

Hurrell also said NZ milk is an increasingly valuable and scarce resource.

With the resources at his disposal, even if the head count falls, Fonterra ought to be able to maximise, in what it calls a process of premiumisation, the values of our milk.

It has abandoned any ambition to be the Nestle of the South Pacific and Fonterra’s directors won’t be spending up large on inmarket acquisitions.

To simplify the numbers right down, in the past three seasons Fonterra took in about 20b litres of milk, sold the products for about a $1 a litre and paid its New Zealand farmers slightly more than half of the revenue. Former chief executive Theo Spierings’ ambition was to increase revenue to $1.20 a litre, which should be a reachable target for his successor and the senior management team.

With a common-sense strategy, the goodwill of employees and farmershareholders and a following wind of good global prices Fonterra should sail a more successful course.

Hugh Stringleman

LETTERS

Keep milking but don’t drown WITHOUT wanting to belittle the good work being done by our industry bodies and co-ops responding to the Government’s freshwater proposals we’re running the risk of drowning in our own negativity.

Here are some facts to encourage us on our way.

Red meat prices are nothing short of astounding, milk prices are okay and looking great for this season.

The weather is pretty darn good as well. Pity Australian farmers walking off their land as relentless drought shows no sign of abating. Australia is disappearing as a major competitor to New Zealand in dairy.

Despite the bank manager being a pain on credit issues in many parts of the country what he/she charges for money is also astounding.

I’ve never seen interest

rates this low. Long may it continue.

There are very few new ideas or surprises in the freshwater proposals.

If you troll through various plan changes of the big four regional councils Ecan, Environment Southland, Waikato and ManawatuWanganui (Horizons) most of it is there already.

We shouldn’t lose our rag because one particular coalition partner in Wellington is putting its view of the world to townies in a pre-election outing.

At the end of the day the punters can do without a new flat screen television or car but they have to have something to eat. I’m not stopping milking cows any time soon.

Kia kaha Kiwi farmers.

Gray Baldwin Putaruru

Get over it I ALWAYS look forward to your paper for news and advice on farming issues.

I also enjoy the jokes, the cartoons and Alan Emerson’s Alternative View.

As a Cantabrian I have a pretty good idea of the changing farming landscape there and especially the issue of freshwater impacts.

Emerson has spat a few dummies in the years I have been reading his columns but his best is the latest advice (September 16) on which New Zealand universities are good.

He seems to do reasonable research but has missed the boat on Mike Joy. Joy is a Massey graduate and now involved at Victoria yet Alan says Massey is okay despite Joy’s academic heritage.

I have science degrees from Victoria, Lincoln/Canterbury and Oxford so have a firm handle on those places. They were all good.

Emerson needs to get over his anti-environmental petulance and swallow some of farming’s home truths and ecological impacts.

David Field Rotorua

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Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

25

I’m listening on freshwater The

Pulpit

Damien O’Connor

I

N THE past few weeks I’ve attended meetings about the Government’s freshwater proposals and visited farms around the country.

I understand change of any kind can be scary but people should be a little cynical about some of the misrepresentation taking place.

Despite what some might say the Government doesn’t hate farmers and we’re not interested in destroying rural communities.

That kind of them-v-us talk isn’t helping farming families.

We are interested in improving freshwater quality, something farmers and urban Kiwis agree is necessary.

Doing so will help protect our farmers’ international reputation for sustainably produced food and fibre and safeguard excellent commodity prices.

At the meetings I’ve heard and respect farmers’ concerns about proposed nitrate limits, fencing and other issues in the water proposals. There is work to do after submissions close and I’d expect changes.

I’ve been accused of not mentioning the good work farmers do.

Rubbish.

Since starting as minister I’ve proudly and regularly praised work including riparian planting, protecting wetlands, treeplanting, fencing and limiting fertiliser use. Those things are happening now and not hurting farmers’ bottom line.

I’ve spoken many times about

NO HURRY: Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor expects changes to the Government’s new water rules as a result of submissions and wants targets met over a generation as part of the good work already being done.

The Government doesn’t hate farmers and we’re not interested in destroying rural communities. the need for change in urban centres. The often disgusting state of Auckland’s beaches is a prime example.

However, I’m committed to meaningful baseline targets for things like nitrate levels in rivers in urban and rural New Zealand because that is a social, economic and environmental imperative.

The targets we finally settle on as part of the proposals will be met over time.

I want to see change over a generation and for it to be part of the good work already

happening. Rural communities will talk to regional councils about the timeframe for achieving targets.

To put the nitrate target in perspective, there are many catchments where rivers are about or near the suggested level.

There are others which will require greater effort but I’m confident we can adapt by using best practice and technology to get there.

Last week I visited several farms that have made environmental changes that did not hurt their bottom line.

These things are being done but we shouldn’t ignore that in some places improvements are required.

I reject that the Government is doing nothing to help farmers.

The Government set aside $229 million to spend on things like boosting advisory and extension services and the establishment

of local groups so farmers can learn from each other about what works.

I’m talking to Beef + Lamb, DairyNZ and others about integrated farm plans to lessen workload.

We’re investing tens of millions of dollars in tools like Overseer to help farmers.

A Farm Debt Mediation scheme will be a safety net for farmers and improvements to Nait will help prevent some of the tracing issues we’ve experienced with Mycoplasma bovis.

Soon we will release an industry-backed plan to ensure the sector gets the skilled workers it needs.

We’ve nearly doubled the funding for rural support trusts and the Budget had $1.9 billion for mental health to improve frontline services, rural communities included.

Recently an independent survey

found the urban/rural divide is not the issue some make out.

People in cities are grateful and supportive of farmers’ work.

Please be proud and talk to people about what you’re doing.

I understand farmers’ concerns but I know that good work is happening and I’m confident that by working together we can improve water quality over time.

Who am I? Damien O’Connor is the Minister of Agriculture, Minister of State for Trade and Export Growth and Minister for Biosecurity, Food Safety and Rural Communities.

Your View Got a view on some aspect of farming you would like to get across?

The Pulpit offers readers the chance to have their say. farmers.weekly@globalhq.co.nz Phone 06 323 1519

Genetics is one thing farmers have 100% control over

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Opinion

26 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

Water rules fait accompli Alternative View

Alan Emerson

I JOINED more than 400 local farmers at the Ministry for the Environment consultation meeting in Carterton.

In addition it was streamed to Federated Farmers members. It was an interesting experience.

The meeting started with MfE staff telling Wairarapa rivers are in good shape.

They then went on to outline all the expenses to be foisted on us even though our rivers are, in their words, in good shape.

We were then told we need to manage our emotions and to be respectful of other attendees.

I’d suggest it’s not easy to manage your emotions when you are getting considerable costs foisted on you for no good reason.

The chairman and subsequent speakers told us the document is a discussion paper only and farmer input is wanted.

I found that interesting because Environment Minister David Parker collected a veritable army of anti-farming types for his committees to develop the documents.

We were told long-retired Federated Farmers chairman Tom Lambie was on the committee as was ex Landcorp chairwoman Traci Houpapa and there were other farmers involved.

My information via an Official Information Act request is that neither Lambie nor Houpapa attended any meetings.

The cynic in me suggests they decided not to waste their time.

I wouldn’t describe the

Landcorp crew as farmers and there were enough of them on the committees along with Fish and Game and other anti-farmer types.

Why they were there when many highly respected farming leaders and scientists weren’t was surprising.

Landcorp doesn’t farm successfully, is happy to foist its prejudices on the entire farming community as evidenced by its select committee submission and it gives a bunch of anti-farming enviro warriors money and credibility.

Maybe I’m missing something.

We were told there were four advisory groups. One was Maori, of which I have no knowledge.

Likewise the regional sector water subgroup made up of council leaders and senior staff with relevant expertise.

We have the Freshwater Leaders Group that was made up of farmers, growers, agribusiness leaders, scientists and resource management experts. Given the make-up of the group I found that description misleading.

There was then the science and technical advisory group made up of 16 leading freshwater scientists.

I could describe them quite differently.

So, my belief is the document was created to produce a preordained result.

There are four big ticket items – water quality for swimming, nutrients, water coming first and sediment.

I have problems with all four.

For a start, as people swim only in high summer will the Government analyse water quality only then. In addition, how many people swim in rivers these days compared with school, council or private pools?

With nutrients they told us one milligram of nitrogen a litre will be allowed. On what scientific basis?

DIDN’T GO: Former Landcorp chairwoman Traci Houpapa was one of two farmers, with former Federated Farmers chairman Tom Lambie, asked to help draft new rules. But apparently they didn’t attend any meetings.

When NIWA can say 1.5 is just fine why is the Government, yet again, playing with figures?

Also, with 3.5mg you’ll have some growth effect on only 5% of species.

Water coming first seems simplistically arrogant in my view.

Surely life should come before water.

Water coming first seems simplistically arrogant in my view.

Surely life should come before water.

I’m over the sediment argument. Sediment comes from erosion of hills and mountains caused by rain, sometimes heavy rain. Agriculture has nothing to do with that. If the Government is worried about sediment

from farmland it should surely encourage irrigation to create coverage and limit runoff.

There will be an army of consultants developing plans, inevitably at great expense, that won’t achieve much. Amazingly, regional government can introduce regulations that can be harsher than those contained in the discussion document.

So what will those plans achieve, especially in areas like Wairarapa where the rivers are, according to MfE, in good shape.

So, once again, you have citycentric policies naively created that don’t have solutions.

It is a one-size-fits-all document trying to align the entire country with the issues in Canterbury.

Insanely, in my view, the economic impact report will not be out until mid November, long after all consultations have closed.

The questions were interesting.

One local farming leader said there is nothing in the document

that indicates how the changes will affect his farm. So how could he possibly make a meaningful submission? He didn’t get a meaningful answer.

Another asked how all the costs will be funded. He was told from existing farm surpluses.

That did get a laugh, albeit hysterical, but the answer showed without any doubt that there isn’t anyone at Government or MfE who has any idea of what life is really like on the farm.

Finally, if you hand pick a motley crew of anti-farmer types and give them a year to come up with a document. If you exclude scientific input from farmer groups and then give people just eight weeks to respond you are not consulting, you are dictating.

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

Don’t worry, all’s well with Brexit From the Ridge

Steve Wyn-Harris

FROM the Ridge (RTR): Prime Minister Johnson, it’s very good of you to find the time to talk to a rural columnist from the other side of the world.

Boris Johnson (BJ): Not at all. I love talking to anyone, particularly New Zealanders.

I’m particularly fond of Winston Peters. He’s a lovely chap.

FTR: And he’s very fond of you as well. He tells us you are particularly intelligent and said you have a respect and affection for a very successful country way out here in the antipodes.

BJ: He went to Whangarei Boys’ High School and Dargaville High School, did you know?

FTR: No, I didn’t and I wasn’t expecting that to come up in our conversation. I’m surprised that’s something you know and remember to boot. Actually, when you think about it, our state schools have been doing well lately knocking out prime ministers. Jacinda went to Morrinsville College, John to Burnside High School and Helen to Epsom Girls Grammar School. But Bill, who had a short stint as PM, did go to St Patricks. I see of Britain’s 55 PMs, 20 including yourself went to Eton. Just nine have gone to what we might call state schools.

Anyway, we seem to have got a little distracted. What I wanted to find out is how is this Brexit thing going.

BJ: It’s going very well. We are making good progress and looks like the European Union

are about to make some decent concessions.

FTR: We are a long way from the action but from here I would have thought things were fairly fraught.

You’ve vowed to take the United Kingdom out of the EU by the end of October. Indeed, a month ago you even said you’d rather be dead in a ditch than delay Brexit again. And yet it would appear you are in a type of stalemate with Parliament.

BJ: It is true that Parliament has been problematic. I wanted to call a snap election to break the deadlock but they voted that down. They have passed a bill that says the UK can’t exit the EU without a deal but we can’t get a deal that we want and then the bastards challenged my decision to prorogue or suspend Parliament and won and are back at Westminster being a pain in the rear.

FTR: It’s somewhat odd hearing a PM lambasting his own

Parliament. Usually, you would be in control.

BJ: I am in control. Just not of my party or of Parliament.

Everything else is fine. I might just suspend them again to show who is boss.

FTR: It seems a big sticking point is this Irish backstop thing.

Can you tell me in simple words what it’s about?

BJ: We’ve got this 310-mile border between the Irish Republic and Northern Ireland, which has 270 public crossing points and a whole bunch of private ones, I’d imagine. No one wants a hard border and yet with Northern Ireland out of the EU there must be border controls. I’ve had this great idea. Let’s not make the border the border then. Let’s have a sort of border 10 miles each side of the border where we will base a whole bunch of customs officials to do whatever it is customs officials do. Or we have checks that can be enforced in ways that

are not disruptive or damaging to the peace process. It’s brilliant.

FTR: I’m not sure the Irish Republic or the EU will think that’s going to work. What you need so that there are no barriers and checks at that border is a comprehensive trade deal. Both you and the EU agree on that yet you haven’t got one. The great difficulty ever since you fellows voted for Brexit is that the EU was never going to make it easy. They didn’t want it to set a precedent and given the knots the UK has tied itself into, even the militant nationalists in other countries have gone quiet on leaving the EU themselves.

BJ: There are still three weeks.

Anything is possible.

FTR: Good luck.

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

Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

27

Idea good but water details cause unease Meaty Matters

Allan Barber

SHEEP and beef farmers are generally in agreement with the principles behind the Ministry for the Environment’s discussion document on the national direction for essential freshwater but there is substantial unease about the finer details.

Three key areas of concern identified by Beef + Lamb are restricting farms to current emissions for land use and farm systems, termed grand-parenting, compliance costs well in excess of forecasts and the real potential for sheep and beef farmers to be put out of business.

The sheep and beef sector, as distinct from dairy and other land uses, is particularly vulnerable to these threats because the Government’s proposals penalise those farm types with lower emissions, especially those who have already achieved significant progress in introducing sustainable systems.

Farmers for Positive Change, a group of 3000 drystock and hill country farmers, chairman Rick Burke claims the grand-parenting approach, especially the capping of on-farm nitrate leaching to current levels, completely fails to acknowledge the distinction between heavy and low emitters.

The F4PC group has pushed back against Waikato Regional Council’s Plan Change 1 process, instead proposing a bottom up approach working across subcatchments.

Burke, a previous Ballance Farm Environment Award winner, has a farming system completely redesigned over 20 years to incorporate new planting, fencing and rotational grazing, which has entailed slightly higher nitrogen use but resulted in infinitely higher productivity and significantly improved environmental outcomes.

He says sheep and beef farming has an exciting future and farmers are eager to unlock serious profitability while pursuing environmental improvements.

F4PC is keen to see farmers in each sub-catchment given a fair target to achieve via a series of 10year milestones out to 2050 but a rushed, one-size-fits all approach has no place in reaching the ultimate goal.

If the Government persists with its top-down model when bringing the Essential Freshwater policy into law it means environmentally sustainable farms will be restricted to the lower levels of nitrogen already achieved than their less diligent neighbours and Burke is adamant some farmers will be driven out of business.

The net result will be a dramatic hit to land values, which would effectively be, in his words, the theft of natural capital that could well result in affected farmers taking a class action against the Government.

However, according to Burke, the F4PC group agrees with the principles of the Action for Healthy Waterways and is keen to make the necessary changes to comply with the significant exception of the grand-parenting provisions that would prevent extensive and low-impact farms adjusting their systems.

Releasing the Essential Freshwater discussion document Environment Minister David

Parker gave the strong impression of being hell bent on speedy implementation with a short consultation period, since lengthened by two weeks, at the busiest time of the farming year.

The timetable is driven by the Government’s determination to introduce the new policy early in the New Year, no doubt as a result of it being an election year.

I have listened to Parker’s comments both on the radio and at a consultation meeting. They give the strong impression of a man on a mission, unlikely to be diverted from his chosen course of action.

I have listened to Parker’s comments both on the radio and at a consultation meeting.

They give the strong impression of a man on a mission, unlikely to be diverted from his chosen course of action.

He sounds eminently reasonable when making the point this is a process that will take decades and nothing will come into force before 2025 while emphasising the importance of agriculture to the economy.

But at no point have I heard any indication he is prepared to listen to farmers’ concerns about intensification and grandparenting with its dire impact on efficient and sustainable producers.

Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor, also sounding totally reasonable, sticks very closely to

WIPEOUT: Grand-parenting farm emissions limits will endanger the industry for future generations, Farmers for Positive Change chairman Rick Burke says.

the party line, repeatedly saying the farmers who are doing the right thing won’t be affected by the proposals while the sheep and beef farmers I have spoken to think it’s the opposite and those who have been doing the right thing will be the most affected.

The sub-catchment approach through regional councils is much more in line with the Auditor General John Ryan’s just released report on Managing Freshwater Quality which said there is not enough information about freshwater at a national level to prioritise efforts on a national basis.

Ryan recommends the Environment Ministry take the leadership role, working with regional councils and others, presumably unitary authorities, to make the improvements needed to ensure the information is collated and used consistently across the country.

It will be interesting to see whether Parker recognises the logic of this argument, which can’t be accused of bias, unlike farming groups who will inevitably be tainted by the suspicion of selfinterest.

What the Government appears unwilling to recognise if it insists on the blanket approach to the freshwater question is the disproportionate impact on sheep and beef farming.

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Local Government New Zealand’s sector water subgroup published its advisory report on the Essential Freshwater proposal in July and found the cost-effectiveness of nutrient reduction policies is questionable, with other measures such as riparian planting likely to be more effective.

Modelling done in the WaikatoWaipa catchment found drystock farming land use would decline by 68% and dairy farming by 13% while forestry would increase by 160%, a massive redistribution of resources.

The annual cost of meeting the revised targets was estimated at $100 million or about 11% of total profits derived from land use in the catchment, let alone the horrific human cost.

The overall message for the Government, especially Parker, is it is preferable to proceed cautiously towards a goal all parties accept as desirable rather than rushing to introduce blunt policy instruments that threaten to destroy one of NZ’s most important sectors.

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

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28 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

On Farm Story

Kiwi clarity inspires import Being a foreigner in a strange land is no barrier to progression in the dairy industry for one young woman from England. Samantha Tennent reports.

A

YOUNG lass from Britain is finding New Zealand pastoral farming a breath of fresh air and is relishing the chance to compare notes and learn from other farmers to help propel her career forward.

Nicola Blowey is the manager on a 575-cow farm at Fairlie.

She was also the 2019 national winner of the Dairy Trainee of the Year at the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards.

She has found consistency and clarity across the NZ dairy sector compared to the diversity in Britain where farmers use grass in some way across their systems.

“Back home discussions don’t have the same clarity,” Blowey says.

“Some farmers might house their cows year-round, some only in summer and some have their cows out as much of the year as possible. There’s a lot of variation.”

She appreciates having focused, clear discussions about what different farms are doing.

Blowey is from Devon in southwest England. She grew up in a small rural village but her parents had left farming and owned the post office. She went to an all-girls school in the city but followed her parents’ footsteps and joined Young Farmers when she was 14.

“We had strong links to the rural community but we didn’t have a farm ourselves.”

In England, before deciding which school subjects to take, students do a week of work experience. She chose to spend it on a farm, which confirmed she wanted to study agriculture.

She graduated from Harper Adams University in Shropshire with an agricultural science degree and wanted to expand her knowledge. Harper Adams is a specialist provider of higher education for the agriculture. It

compares to Lincoln University in NZ. She completed two years of study then a year on-farm gaining practical experience.

She describes the system as reasonably intensive compared to NZ. Though she enjoyed farming in Britain she was also keen to learn more about pasture-based systems.

So she got a role with Matt and Vanessa Greenwood in Fairlie who contract milk for Leonie and Kieran Guiney.

She began as a farm assistant in July 2016 and progressed to 2IC the following season then assistant herd manager last season when she won the dairy trainee title.

She is now the farm manager for the Greenwoods who altered the farm structure to give her the chance to grow and take further responsibility.

“They wouldn’t necessarily have a farm manager on this farm but they were able to make it work for me and it frees up Matt to do other things, too.

“It’s a win-win. They were willing to alter the structure so I was able to stay here and continue to learn from them and the Guineys but also achieve some of my career goals, too.”

There are strong links between the Guiney farms and the awards.

The Guineys came second at national level in the share farmer section and the Greenwoods have done well at regional level.

“I knew before I came to NZ Matt and Vanessa had won the pasture performance award when they entered the Canterbury share farmer of the year a few years ago.”

Last year Will Green, who was managing the Guineys’ home farm at Springfield, entered the awards and Blowey supported him through the process.

“It was really exciting to see how

TOP OF THE CLASS: Nicola Blowey, originally from Britain, is the 2019 Dairy Trainee of the Year. She manages a 175ha farm at Fairlie.

Photos: Natwick Photography

well he did. He entered for the first time and came second.”

“It showed me the scope of the awards, the quality of the people entering, the networks you can make from attending and being a part of it all.”

When they changed the rules this year it allowed people on work visas to enter so she explored the option.

“This was my one and only opportunity.

“The awards have specific rules around the trainee section to ensure a fair competition.

“It was the first and the last year I was allowed to enter the trainee category in lots of different ways so I felt like that was telling me I should definitely give it a go.”

She wanted to benchmark herself against others. She won the trainee category for

the Canterbury region and the national final.

“Winning was amazing. It was a real boost to demonstrate I am on the right track.”

She took home three merit awards including the Federated Farmers Farming Knowledge Award, the DeLaval Communication and Engagement Award and best video presented

by Streamliner.

Blowey says the awards were an eye-opener, especially when talking to others farming in different parts of the country.

There is a lot of variety as the different regions are in different stages of their season relative to their local climate.

“I had only seen farms in operation in Fairlie and I’ve found it crazy how different it is across the country.”

The Greenwood farm is 175 hectares of mostly rolling country, 550m above sea level. It is one of four dairy farms owned by the Guineys and one of two without irrigation.

The soil is mostly Claremont and the farm is covered in a permanent ryegrass-clover mix. They use nitrogen only to fill deficits, particularly in early spring and through summer when the weather permits. Some years it can be as little as 150kg of nitrogen a hectare but up to 280kg/ha in a challenging season.

“We want to match supply and demand as closely as possible to maintain quality.”

She says they don’t set production targets because they target profit rather than production.

“The general aim is to make as much milk as possible from grass so we can maximise profits.

“The average is 160,000kg of milksolids, which is just over 1000kg MS/ha.”

The herd is predominantly fed grass. The aim is to be solely grass-based in spring and autumn and push the round longer in late summer. A maximum of 300kg DM of supplement a cow is fed each season.

The supplementary feed tends to be palm kernel but it comes down to availability and cost. If there is a genuine pasture surplus they will look at making silage and feed it first.

Supplementary feed is usually added from late January when the grass slows to build a bank of grass ahead of them and hold the quality for autumn and spring.

They push the round out earlier than other farms in the area.

The palm kernel is fed in troughs in the paddock in late summer, which also means the risk of pasture damage is significantly reduced.

The cows spring calve, starting August 5. This season they pulled their calving date forward five days.

“We always thought balance date was October 10 but we were

On Farm Story

finding it was coming a little earlier each year so we moved forward to match the two irrigated farms.”

Unfortunately, Blowey and the team are struggling to keep up with demand. The herd got incalf well last season and they are calving at a faster rate than usual.

This combined with reduced pasture growth from lower temperatures means they are having to juggle the feed.

“We’ve put a bit of pressure on ourselves this year. We are a bit tight for grass.

“We are having to put a bit of silage into the dry cows to reduce demand until the growth comes.”

During the peak of calving they do a pick-up of new calves after the morning milking though they will check on the springer mob several times during the day.

New-born calves are fed fresh gold colostrum.

They aim to keep about 110 replacements but do rear every heifer born so any excess can be sold to one of the other Guiney farms if they are short or want more.

They aim to wean calves at 100kg and once they reach target they are sent to the run-off from December 1 onwards.

Calves from all four Guiney farms are run together on the block and Blowey will usually get her own calves back as in-calf heifers.

Mating starts on October 27 with the new calving date. Blowey is responsible for most of the heat detection but is fortunate Matt can relieve her for days off.

AI runs for four weeks and they tail with Jersey bulls for a total of 10 weeks mating.

“We didn’t do anything differently to help the cows last season despite pulling the calving start date earlier but they got incalf really well.”

The heifers from all four dairy farms are run with the bulls and mated a week ahead of the herd.

Blowey has two farm assistants, both new to the dairy sector.

She and the team keep up with research and recommendations.

They always review their practices and make plans based on supporting information.

Since emigrating to NZ she has completed Biz Start and Biz Grow through DairyNZ. She is also interested in doing the Agribusiness Diploma through Primary ITO but needs residence to be eligible.

Her Harper Adams degree has served her well but she wants to focus on the numbers and

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

29

MEAL TIME: Nicola takes the calves their breakfast.

business side next to push her forward.

Because of visa restrictions she cannot move beyond farm manager till she has residence.

“It’s a lovely place to live and the dairy industry is really strong.

It has a lot going for it in lots of different ways.

“Because it’s such a big part of the economy it means we have a significant impact in the country and that’s really nice to be able to pay back to the community here as a whole.

GOING GREEN: Nicola is enjoying the Kiwi way of life and farming and in particular, working with a pasture-based system.

Blowey joined the Mackenzie District Young Farmers Club and has been secretary for two years. She is also Aorangi region secretary.

She describes Fairlie as a diverse area. It has a range of dairy farms, arable farms and drystock farms. It draws people from the Mackenzie Basin too.

“I think Young Farmers is really important for that in this area.

“In the UK, Young Farmers has a stronger focus on the competitions and getting all club members involved to learn new skills and grow confidence.”

She sees NZ Young Farmers more focused on making social connections.

“A massive success of Young Farmers in NZ is bringing people together, bringing people off the farm and helping them make connections in the community.

“Farmstrong’s research showed people who are members of Young Farmers are less likely to report issues with mental health that significantly affect their lives.”

To help build social connections across the Guiney farms they also field a touch team for the local tournament in summer. Between the farm team and her Young Farmers club team she plays her fair share of games. She also helps fill spots in the local netball tournament too.

Every winter she has gone home

The general aim is to make as much milk as possible from grass so we can maximise profits.

Nicola Blowey Farmer to spend time with her family. She says it helps her remain focused when she is here.

She aspires to own a herd but wants to ensure she creates a profitable, sustainable business.

Her ideal would be to be involved in several dairy businesses to create progression opportunities for other young people.

“I want to help others achieve their goals and, hopefully, I will be able to attract and work alongside keen, positive and focused people.

“Being part of an industry that fulfills so many key roles for society is very special and it is the relevance of agriculture to every one of us that is so rewarding.

“The range of knowledge and skills you build working in the industry and the variety of jobs we do and situations we face each season is really exciting.”

>> Video link: bit.ly/OFSblowey

Opinion

30 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

A sad day for little Fonterra The Braided Trail

plans to retain money from milk price payments this year.

However, it is clear Fonterra does plan to hold back more funds Keith Woodford from future profits than it has in the past. That is all very well, as long as profits can first be generated.

In Fonterra’s FONTERRA’S annual report presentation there is a contains no big surprises. specific contrast drawn The strategy is one of stepping between historical back from consumer brands and debt-funded growth to global milk pools. a future of a conservative That has been driven by balance sheet. Aggressive growth necessity. is to be replaced by competitive As such, it is a move towards a advantage. little Fonterra and away from the It seems future capital vision of a big global Fonterra. expenditure at no more than $500 There is an old saying about million a year will be similar to cutting the cloth to suit the purse. current levels of depreciation.

That is where Fonterra sits right That emphasises it is essentially a now. no-growth Fonterra.

There is no indication Fonterra The fiveyear target for the earnings is 50 cents a share.

Agrievents 2019 The proposed dividend is 40-60% of that, AWDT Understanding Your Farming Business & implying a dividend of Wahine Maia, Wahine Whenua 20-30 cents Programmes designed for red meat farming women. 3 within five full-day workshop and an evening graduation ceremony years. run over four months.

Next year’s Delivering in 40 locations around NZ, registrations for earnings are 2020 are now open, visit the website for dates, locations estimated at and to register.

15-25 cents Website: To register visit www.awdt.org.nz/programmes a share, suggesting Contact: keri@awdt.org.nz or 06 375 8180 for more info a dividend under the Sunday 20/10/2019 – Wednesday 23/10/2019 new policy BGANZ Conference of about 10 The BGANZ Conference is all about the plants. Since, cents and education, recreation, conservation, community outreach a similar - they are all dependent on plants. Botanic gardens were amount for established to gather plants for economic purposes, for retentions. medicinal purposes then alongside private collectors for That will be about the joy and privilege that plants can bring. $160 million Where: Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, of retentions, Wellington most of Time: 9.00am to 6.00pm which will go to Fonterra’s Wednesday 06/11/2019 – Thursday 07/11/2019 debt Red Meat Profit Partnership reduction.

Lead Facilitator two-day workshop Fonterra’s dividends An opportunity for rural professionals to gain an do not understanding of what facilitation is all about and learn usually carry the skills required to effectively facilitate groups and franking learning. credits and Where: Commodore Airport Hotel, Christchurch so will have Cost: $500+GST tax liabilities To register or to find out more visit www.rmpp.co.nz or for investors call us on 027 565 7887. and farmers.

Next year’s net dividend Friday 08/11/2019 – Saturday 09/11/2019 is therefore Marlborough A & P Show 2019 already Entries open now looking very www.marlboroughshow.co.nz small, even if things do go to plan.

Should your important event be listed here?

It’s notable Phone 0800 85 25 80 or email adcopy@globalhq.co.nz Fonterra’s

0096008

71.67x200

LK0096008©

agrievents

assets include more than $500m of tax credits, suggesting Fonterra will not need to pay much tax for a long time.

In all of this the first big question is whether Fonterra has identified all the dead rats that need to be swallowed, specifically, are there more assets that will need to be written down?

I note chief financial officer Marc Rivers acknowledges asset valuation is not an exact science.

I have previously identified Australia and Chile as places where asset values look shaky.

I had hoped to get more clarity around those assets but the annual report is not very forthcoming.

In the fine print of the detailed financial statements but not in the annual report’s version of them, there is some information on the valuation process for Australian assets.

They are based on comparative dairy asset sales in recent times.

They are not based on value in use.

The problem here is the overarching Australian dairy situation has declined rapidly in the last two years. It looks to me as if some of the Fonterra assets in Australia, particularly in Victoria, are now becoming stranded. Just like Beingmate and China Farms, they will be hard to sell.

I do note Fonterra acknowledges Australian valuations reflect an assumed improvement in business outcomes. Time will tell on that one.

The Chilean situation remains opaque. By going to the Chilean accounts, largely in Spanish, at December 1 2018 and converting the figures to New Zealand dollars I estimate total Soprole assets, including Prolesur, have a book value of about $930m. The Chilean book-value of equity is about $660.

My Chilean sources tell me they do not think the assets could be sold for anywhere near that.

Fonterra’s own accounts do not state anywhere the total value of its Chilean assets. Some of the assets are classed as intangibles

MYSTERY MENU: The question remains whether Fonterra has disclosed all the dead rats that have to be swallowed.

and goodwill, some are property, plant and equipment which are not mentioned, and some are cash assets.

It is only by going to Soprole’s own accounts that the total value of assets is evident.

It is clear China Farms is still struggling. This last year it lost $30m after allowing for incompany transfers. The previous year the loss was $38m. These figures still exclude any allowance for interest or a contribution to overheads. Production has also declined over the last two years.

I find it remarkable Fonterra is still only playing at the edges of the A2 issue, of which there is no mention in its strategy.

Over half of the China Farms value relates to livestock. The animals will find a ready market at good prices.

The big question is whether anyone will want to buy the infrastructure of a loss-making enterprise.

The value for Fonterra’s share of Beingmate of $234m reflects the 5.54RMB market value of Beingmate shares on July 31.

Since then they have dropped about 6% but are volatile. I note from information elsewhere Beingmate is now converting itself to be a property developer.

Perhaps the great disappointment from the annual report and associated strategy release is there seems to be little indication of how Fonterra plans to increase its operational efficiency.

I don’t question the operational efficiency of milk collection and processing at many of its plants. Rather, I question the

efficiency and costs of all of the other aspects of the business. For example, how does Fonterra plan to reduce its overheads?

The new regional structure will create opportunities for strategic redundancies but will also bring its challenges. There is no word on shifting the head office from Auckland to a regional centre such as Hamilton, which many farmers would like to see.

Many would see that as an action consistent with cutting the cloth to suit the purse.

Most Fonterra farmer members support the leadership despite enormous disappointment, frustration and anger at how events have unfolded.

However, if this year does not go well then next year there will be nowhere for the leaders to hide.

Outside Fonterra many people will criticise Fonterra’s new strategy of drawing back to something much more basic.

It is indeed a sad day.

The problem is Fonterra has made such a mess with its international endeavours that it really has no option in relation to branded products and the international milk pools.

I find it remarkable Fonterra is still only playing at the edges of the A2 issue, of which there is no mention in its strategy.

I also note Synlait has now confirmed its milk payments for the 2018-19 year and with premiums included, its average payment is 23 cents a kilo milksolids above Fonterra. Yili is also paying above Fonterra.

Tatua’s payment is higher again, at $8.50/kg MS.

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

NEW LISTING

Boundary lines are indicative only

Orini 1787 Orini Road

Good solid unit

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This 91ha (more or less) dairy unit has a flat contour and enjoys great road appeal with its excellent layout, many specimen and native trees and beautiful mature totara along the stream running on its eastern boundary. The 23ASHB is centrally located with all the working hub closely grouped nearby. A 30 tonne concrete fert bunker is easily accessed off the tanker loop. Around 300 cows are milked with three year average in excess of 114,000ms (best of 122,491ms in 16/17 season). A 160 cow concrete feed pad is adjacent to the dairy and flows easily into the rectangular yard. The property is split by Orini Road with 36 hectares in one block connected to the main block of 55 hectares by a concrete underpass. A very good race system feeds to all 36 paddocks. There are two dwellings on the property. Two primary schools are within close proximity and Hamilton is just a short drive away.

Auction (unless sold prior) 11am, Thu 7 Nov 2019 96 Ulster Street, Hamilton View 12-1pm Thu 10 Oct Mike Fraser-Jones 027 475 9680 mike.fraserjones@bayleys.co.nz

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

bayleys.co.nz/2310772

Boundary lines are indicative only

Taupo 262 and 376 Marotiri Road, Marotiri

Oxenford downs dairy farm An opportunity not to be missed. 650 cows are wintered on the property with 630 being peak milked, producing an average of 241,742kg/ms over the previous 5 years. There is a 50ASHB with auto teat spray and vet race, this is well placed on the farm to assist good cow flow and ease of management. Three good dwellings on the farm give plenty of accommodation options for the new owner. Grass silage is made on the property with the bulk going in to a stack and some bales, Palm Kernel is fed in bins beside the cowshed. Approx 35km to Taupo, 22km to Kinloch and 17km to Whakamaru where you will find vets, dairy, cafes, service station. *Subject to the property complying with Residential Tenancies (Healthy Homes Standards) Regulations 2019, effective 1 July 2019 for the purposes of a rental investment.

Price by Negotiation View by appointment Stan Sickler 021 275 7826 stan.sickler@bayleys.co.nz WESTERMAN REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/2651648

bayleys.co.nz

Boundary lines are indicative only

Broadlands 2910A Earle Road

97 flat fertile hectares with 65ha irrigated

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The property is currently producing 145,000kg/ms from 250 cows. 300 calves were reared on whole milk. Two very good dwellings help complement the property along with a 20ASHB with in shed feeders, auto cup removers. The implement shed is complete with a concrete floor and power, with additional sheds for calf rearing and storage. Races are well set out for easy cow flow and minimise walking distances to the dairy.

Asking Price $4,500,000 + GST (if any) View by appointment Stan Sickler 021 275 7826 stan.sickler@bayleys.co.nz

Irrigation covers 67% of the farm, K line is the main system and the hard hose gun is a back up or used for watering crops. Pastures have all been recently renovated, leaving no room for poor performers. Crops are grown on the property with Turnips achieving approx 20t per hectare.

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

bayleys.co.nz/2651593

NEW LISTING

Taranaki 879 Otaraoa Road, Tikorangi

Well located 230ha dairy With eight titles in place the property has options to be sold as an entire unit or in parts to suit interested parties.

Located only 8 kilometres from SH 3 in the well regarded Tikorangi farming district the property runs both sides of Otaraoa Road with a connecting underpass. Improvements include a new four bedroom home built in 2018, second three bedroom home plus portable two bed cottage. The 36 a-side dairy shed with Protrack is supported by good quality outbuildings including a 10 bay implement / calf shed. In addition is the feed pad, silage bunkers and contour ranges from flat to rolling and medium hill with access via a good network of laneways. Calving approximately 500 cows and producing 205,000 kgMS last season the farm has increased production over the last three years. Close to town and well appointed the farm has numerous options with scale or as a smaller unit.

Tender (unless sold prior) Closing 1pm, Fri 8 Nov 2019 15 Courtenay St, New Plymouth View 11am-12pm Thu 10 Oct, Thu 17 Oct & Thu 24 Oct Mark Monckton 021 724 833 mark.monckton@bayleystaranaki.co.nz

bayleys.co.nz/2600307

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

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NEW LISTING

Tutira Te Rangi Station, 748 Heays Access Road

Deer, hunting, farming and tourism options Te Rangi Station, a special 948ha property, one of the original deer farms providing a huge opportunity to build a business around tourism and farming. Includes over 200ha of native bush and kanuka which provides a fantastic habitat for the kiwi and other native bird life. This unique parcel of land is located only 50 minutes' drive from Hawke's Bay Airport. Scope for hunting, breeding and finishing deer, sheep and beef, with a fantastic fertiliser history, excellent summer rainfall and large areas of easy contour with options that include guided walking, hunting, horse or four wheel drive tours. Improvements include a colonial 1920s four bedroom homestead, 1960s three bedroom manager's residence, shearers quarters, four stand woolshed, sheep and cattle yards, truck shed/workshop and two deer complexes with all weather access. Open Day 1pm 16 October or call to view.

bayleys.co.nz/2851773

Tender (will not be sold prior) Closing 4pm, Wed 20 Nov 2019 17 Napier Road, Havelock North View by appointment Tony Rasmussen 027 429 2253 tony.rasmussen@bayleys.co.nz Gavin Franklin 027 427 8000 gavin.franklin@bayleys.co.nz EASTERN REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

NEW LISTING

Mahia Pahnui Station, 330 Mahanga Road

Substantial coastal dairy and fattening Rarely do expansive flat land parcels, capable of dry stock fattening or dairy come to market on the East Coast.

This highly desirably contoured property is 590ha (320ha being flat land) and includes a water take consent. The two platforms (288ha in total) are complemented by additional flat cropping land and approx. 170ha of medium to steep hill country, an ideal run off, or a separate proposition for buyers. Previously milking up to 1,200 cows, but more recently reducing numbers to 800 via the automated 44 bail rotary cowshed. The dairy infrastructure, constructed in the early 1990s is centrally located surrounded by a range of sheds, and previous dry stock infrastructure. Fertility throughout the farm is excellent. Three sturdy homes provide good on-farm accommodation, near the shores of Mahanga beach and a handy 75km south of Gisborne.

Tender (unless sold prior) Closing 4pm, Thu 7 Nov 2019 10 Reads Quay, Gisborne Simon Bousfield 027 665 8778 simon.bousfield@bayleys.co.nz James Bolton-Riley 027 739 1011 james.bolton-riley@bayleys.co.nz

bayleys.co.nz/2751492

MACPHERSON MORICE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

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NEW LISTING

Taihape 1397 Moawhango Valley Road

Te Maai - 491ha exceptional breeding & finishing farm

5

Superbly located in the sheltered Hiwera Valley only 18 kms East of Taihape, Te Maai features an attractive modern homestead with outstanding uninterrupted views including Mt Ruapehu and the Ruahine Ranges.

Auction (unless sold prior) 11am, Fri 29 Nov 2019 The Workingmans Club, 34 Kuku Street, Taihape View by appointment Peter Stratton 027 484 7078 peter.stratton@bayleys.co.nz

Te Maai offers fertile and free draining soils with a strong production history of sheep breeding and finishing complimented with finishing cattle and dairy grazing. Favoured with 54 cubes/day of pristine stock water from the Erewhon Rural Scheme, the contour is mainly rolling to medium hills with 150ha that has been cultivated.

The modern five bedroom architecturally designed homestead built in 2004 commands extensive and uninterrupted views from an elevated site in a sheltered valley.

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BARTLEY REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/2900071

Apiti 163 Makoura Road

"Ruaiti"- begin your journey

4

This is an excellent opportunity to purchase a 122 hectare (more or less) property to start your farm ownership journey. Currently milking 215 Friesian cows through a 24-aside herringbone shed on the 90 hectare platform, with the balance of the property acting as the support block. The infrastructure is excellent with in-shed feeding, Te Pari yards, and numerous sheds. Effluent disposal is via a trash pump from the fully consented twin pond system. Stock water is supplied from the large farm water reservoir and is pressure reticulated to troughs in each paddock. The elevated four-bedroom homestead is complemented by a second comfortable three-bedroom home. All this located on the edge of the friendly, community-minded Apiti Village. This property is genuinely for sale and our vendors will consider sale as a going concern. We look forward to your call.

For Sale by Deadline Private Treaty

bayleys.co.nz/3100211

bayleys.co.nz

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(unless sold prior)

4pm, Thu 7 Nov 2019 49 Manchester Street, Feilding View by appointment Paul Hofmann 02108460446 paul.hofmann@bayleys.co.nz MID WEST REALTY LTD, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

NEW LISTING

Boundary lines are indicative only

Central Hawke's Bay 420 Middleton Road, Waipukurau

243ha and 88ha with water and massive potential

4

Edenbridge, a mostly easy contoured 332 hectare sheep and beef farm in two parcels, benefits from the desirable Farm Road Water Scheme. Located 10 kilometres south of Waipukurau, this property has huge potential to cultivate both the mainly flat easy 88 hectare title or the 243 hectare home block. Each block complements the other, with the flat land holding on better in a dry period.

Auction (will not be sold prior) 11am, Thu 7 Nov 2019 17 Napier Road, Havelock North View by appointment Tony Rasmussen 027 429 2253 tony.rasmussen@bayleys.co.nz Andy Hunter 027 449 5827 andy.hunter@bayleys.co.nz

Leased out for many years, currently ewes lamb early August, with cattle traded depending on the season.

Improvements include a four bedroom home with attached self contained accommodation, three stand woolshed, sheep and cattle yards. Rarely does such a well located property with this contour and reticulated water come to the market. Out of town vendors want a sale. Open Day 10am 8 October or call now to view.

bayleys.co.nz/2851827

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

NEW LISTING

Takapau 636 Speedy Road

Bluechip CHB landholding

4

Katoa Farm sits in the hub of the Ruataniwha basin located only 15.5km from Waipukurau. The 174ha property with its alluvial soils spread over the two flat terraces offers a discerning buyer the opportunity to follow the existing farming policy with excellent production or explore the options this farm could offer. Katoa has a history of high yielding cash crops with potatoes, onions, wheat, peas and squash along with a beef fattening operation wintering between 250-500 bulls (this vary's dependent on the cropping program). Irrigation is via a centre pivot, with an 80ha consent and second bore for stock and house water. The well appointed four bedroom home which has been tastefully refurbished has commanding views over part of the farm. Numerous implement sheds, farm metal pit and cattle yards. This is a standout performer rarely seen on the CHB market.

Tender (will not be sold prior) Closing 4pm, Wed 13 Nov 2019 Railway Station, 11 Bogle Brothers Esplanade, Waipukurau View by appointment Andy Hunter 027 449 5827 Tony Rasmussen 027 429 2253 Andy Lee 027 354 8608

bayleys.co.nz/2870662

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

bayleys.co.nz

NEW LISTING

Central Hawke's Bay 1312 Ngahape Road, Flemington

464 hectares with fertility and contour

4

Located 20 minutes south of Waipukurau and only 3km from the highly regarded decile 10 Flemington School is this well developed 464ha breeding/finishing property which boasts large portions of easy contour and excellent soil fertility. The farm is well subdivided, has an excellent laneway system, reticulated water and a lot of the farm is still deer fenced. A feature of the property is the 290sqm, 2015 built, four plus bedroom homestead which is nicely sheltered and positioned to capture all day sun. Excellent shedding, inground pool and established gardens top off this large farmhouse. Other improvements include three stand woolshed and covered yards, Te Pari cattle yards and an unused deer shed. A must view for those wanting a well located easy contoured sheep and beef farm, topped off with a fantastic modern family home. Open Day 1pm 8 October.

Tender (will not be sold prior) Closing 4pm, Thu 14 Nov 2019 17 Napier Road, Havelock North View by appointment Tony Rasmussen 027 429 2253 tony.rasmussen@bayleys.co.nz Andy Hunter 027 449 5827 andy.hunter@bayleys.co.nz

bayleys.co.nz/2851822

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

NEW LISTING

Dannevirke 1740 Top Grass Road

Bull farming - a class above

4

Currently run as a high performing bull unit, this aesthetically appealing property has excellent infrastructure including calf rearing facilities, loads of shedding and so much more. Located an easy 10 minutes from Dannevirke this 153ha farm is made up of approximately 115ha easy to gentle contour with the balance medium.

This farm has consistently produced outstanding bull weights and also has the ability to produce their own supplements. The majority of the farm is internally split into two wire electric cell blocks with an all weather track and lane-way through the farm providing easy stock movement. A well maintained and renovated four bedroom home, three hay sheds, two large calf rearing sheds, three stand woolshed and two sets of cattle yards complete this fantastic package.

Tender (will not be sold prior) Closing 4pm, Thu 14 Nov 2019 Railway Station, 11 Bogle Brothers Esplanade, Waipukurau View by appointment Vic Ellingham 027 201 6707 vic.ellingham@bayleys.co.nz

bayleys.co.nz/2870657

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

bayleys.co.nz

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NEW LISTING

Canterbury 670 The Peaks Road, Hawarden

A very modern dairy 'The Peaks' is a very-well-developed 173.8ha dairy conversion, located in a favourable dairying area. Developed to a very high standard, it has low-cost water, scheme-managed nutrients and modern infrastructure. Production has been steadily increasing and in the 2018/19 season produced 264,444kgMS from 560 cows off 160ha effective. This year’s budget is to milk around 580 cows at peak production. The property is well-watered via three interlinked wells, by pivot irrigators. Excellent infrastructure includes a modern 54-bail rotary dairy with Reid plant, cup removers, a vet crush, pro-track drafting and in-shed-feeding, large implement sheds, a calf shed and three modern homes. The main homestead has four bedrooms and is set on a terrace above the Hurunui River, providing stunning views. A very-well-set-up property - phone now to book an appointment.

bayleys.co.nz/5510728

For Sale by Deadline Private Treaty (unless sold prior)

4pm, Thu 7 Nov 2019 3 Deans Ave, Chch Peter Foley 021 754 737 peter.foley@bayleys.co.nz Ben Turner 027 530 1400 ben.turner@bayleys.co.nz WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Te Awamutu 670 Pirongia Road

Te Awamutu 154 Johnson Road

The absolute best

Well established Waikato kiwifruit orchards

Close to Te Awamutu, in some of the best milking country in NZ, is this 274ha (more or less) trophy dairy farm. With a very productive milking platform and the huge bonus of over 18 canopy hectares of green kiwifruit as a ‘cash cow’ provides a very healthy income stream. Around 755 cows are milked through a 44ASHB with a second 14ASHB used for early season colostrum cows. There are five dwellings. Options to purchase are for the entire 302ha dairy farm including the two kiwifruit orchards.

Alternatively, a subdivision may be completed allowing the kiwifruit orchards to be purchased independently from the dairy farm. The kiwifruit orchards may be purchased individually or together.

bayleys.co.nz/2310680

Tender (will not be sold prior) Closing 4pm, Mon 21 Oct 2019 96 Ulster Street, Hamilton View 11am-12pm Tue 8 Oct Stuart Gudsell AREINZ 021 951 737 stuart.gudsell@bayleys.co.nz Mike Fraser-Jones 027 475 9680 mike.fraserjones@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Two kiwifruit orchards on fertile free draining soils. The Johnson Road Orchard has 9.29 canopy hectares with 1.1 hectares of new plantings. The proposed subdivision plan is to expand to a total of 18.8100 hectares (subject to survey) as well as an additional 5045sqm (subject to survey) lifestyle block. Penny Road Orchard is 7.6 canopy hectares with loading out area on 10.1 hectares (subject to survey). Options to purchase are for the 302 hectare dairy farm including the two kiwifruit orchards or the subdivision can be completed allowing the kiwifruit orchards to be purchased independently of the farm.

bayleys.co.nz/2310681

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Tender (will not be sold prior) Closing 4pm, Mon 21 Oct 2019 96 Ulster Street, Hamilton View 12-1pm Tue 8 Oct Stuart Gudsell AREINZ 021 951 737 stuart.gudsell@bayleys.co.nz Mike Fraser-Jones 027 475 9680 mike.fraserjones@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz

NEW LISTING

Otorohanga Lees Block Road

Whanganui 3186 State Highway 4

Dairy farm offers great value

Parapara paradise - 126.4ha

This 114ha farm has first class facilities, flat to easy rolling contour and a sustainable production history.

The 40ASHB shed (cupped to 32) features in-shed meal feeders, automated cup removers, teat sprayer and yard scraper. Farm sheds include a near new, four bay Aztech implement shed.

The average four year production is 93,504 with around 270 cows now on the approximate 105ha milking platform. The effluent system includes weeping walls and a lined pond. There’s a four bedroom home and staff cottage.

Our clients have already taken possession of their new farm and are dedicated to selling!

Auction (unless sold prior) 11am, Thu 31 Oct 2019 96 Ulster Street, Hamilton Sharon Evans AREINZ 027 235 4771 sharon.evans@bayleys.co.nz Stuart Gudsell AREINZ 021 951 737 stuart.gudsell@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

First farm buyers, hunters and beekeepers, take note. Here is a golden opportunity to mix fun, income and a unique opportunity for capital growth. Taukoro, a 126ha property, is located in the heart of the picturesque Parapara Valley with approximately 65ha of grazable hill country, scattered Manuka and 20ha of flat and easy contours. Currently utilised for heifer grazing and sheep breeding. The block is capable of creating a small but active farm, with comprehensive stock handling and equestrian facilities, sheds, plus a comfortable four bedroom Art Deco home.

Additional income streams have come from hunting, horse trekking, calf rearing and bee keeping. Call today and secure your little slice of paradise.

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For Sale

by Deadline Private Treaty (will not be sold prior)

2pm, Thu 7 Nov 2019 158 Wicksteed Street, Whanganui Phone for viewing times Knud Bukholt 027 222 6161 knud.bukholt@bayleys.co.nz Tracey Wilson 027 412 1586 tracey.wilson@bayleys.co.nz BARTLEY REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/3000877

bayleys.co.nz/2310766

NEW LISTING

Mikonui Block

Central Hawke's Bay 55 Byrne Road, Takapau Finishing, grazing, cropping options Rangeview is a premium and versatile 221 hectare property, the majority is of flat contour with a portion of easy to rolling.

Infrastructure includes a woolshed, numerous other shedding, a high standard of fencing and excellent water that is sourced from two bores and reticulated to all paddocks. The spacious family home is nestled amongst lovely landscaped gardens on an elevated terrace. Centrally located, 20km west of Waipukurau and only 5km from Takapau which has schooling, health centre and multiple sports clubs. Retiring vendors have said to sell and are ready for new owners to take to the next level. With the perfect combination of excellent water, prime location, outstanding contour and versatility, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

bayleys.co.nz/2870667

bayleys.co.nz

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Ross 1253 Harihari Highway 2

Tender (will not be sold prior) Closing 1pm, Fri 8 Nov 2019 Railway Station Building, 11 Bogle Brothers Esplanade, Waipukurau View by appointment Kathy Young 027 318 3806 kathy.young@bayleys.co.nz Andy Hunter 027 449 5827 andy.hunter@bayleys.co.nz EASTERN REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Historic Fergusons Bush homestead After 150 years in the Ferguson family, the historic Fergusons Bush homestead, 297ha farm property, combined with the family's 68ha Mikonui support property are being offered for sale. With approximately 150ha grazable on the homestead property and 68ha effective on the Mikonui property just minutes down the road you have good scale, balance of soil types and topography to effectively manage the properties through the yearly cycle of seasonal weather changes. These properties present an opportunity to continue with the current, Beef breeding and finishing or are well enough developed to suit a Dairy support operation.

bayleys.co.nz/5510820

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Deadline Sale (unless sold prior) 1pm, Thu 7 Nov 2019 View by appointment Austen Russell 027 441 7055 austen.russell@bayleys.co.nz WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Boundary lines are indicative only

Motunau 1553 Happy Valley Road An outstanding coastal property 'Motunau Homestead' is a unique and well-farmed 193.76ha property with around 2km of spectacular North Canterbury coastline. An easy-rolling to flat property situated above a sandy beach with a large, well-cared-for five-bedroom character homestead, two-bedroom cottage, excellent fencing, new cattle yards and panoramic sea views out to Pegasus Bay, Banks Peninsula and the Pacific Ocean. The productive and healthy property has supported strong animal performance and is currently stocking breeding ewes and fattening cattle. Well-setup with excellent subdivision and fencing, new cattle yards and a full range of well-maintained support buildings. Fishing and diving are on the doorstep, Christchurch is just over an hour's drive away.

Canterbury 125 Merton Road, Fernside 5

1

1

For Sale

by Deadline Private Treaty (unless sold prior)

4pm, Thu 17 Oct 2019 3 Deans Avenue, Christchurch Ben Turner 027 530 1400 ben.turner@bayleys.co.nz Peter Foley 021 754 737 peter.foley@bayleys.co.nz WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Develop - land-bank - farm A strategic opportunity to secure a premium property, located close to Rangiora township and around 25 minutes’ drive from Christchurch city. This attractive and well-sheltered 50.5ha small farm is in three titles, and has quality, fertile soils suitable for a variety of land uses. It is supported by numerous good sheds including a woolshed and sheep yards, hay and implement sheds.

The appealing four-bedroom home is set in beautiful mature gardens with loads of space for a family.

Continue farming, or subdivide into smaller land parcels. Don’t miss the opportunity to secure this blue-chip property which provides so many possibilities.

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Deadline Sale (unless sold prior) 4pm, Mon 21 Oct 2019 3 Deans Ave, Chch Ben Turner 027 530 1400 ben.turner@bayleys.co.nz Jack Pringle 027 533 4820 jack.pringle@bayleys.co.nz WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/5510756

bayleys.co.nz/5510191

FINAL NOTICE

Oxford 45 Parish Road

Sheffield 3716 Old West Coast Road

Positioned for the future

'Westacre Farm'

Here is a great example of an immaculate property that is setting its own standards in environmental management. Our vendors have future proofed this 189.5200 hectare property and are operating well below regulatory targets. Having five wells under one consent supplying irrigation water to two centre pivots at a comparatively low cost range reinforces the desirability of this unit. The 50 bail rotary shed has excellent stock handling facilities, mating camera, ACR, and green wash yard system providing further savings of time and water. A solar panel array generates electricity for the shed and trees have been planted as land permits.

bayleys.co.nz/5510746

For Sale $8,300,000 + GST (if any) View by appointment Brook Yates 027 807 8093 brook.yates@bayleys.co.nz Dean Pugh 027 335 6303 dean.pugh@bayleys.co.nz WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Situated within one of Canterbury’s most well-regarded farming locations due to the soil quality, rainfall, and its proximity to local amenities and Christchurch City. 'Westacre Farm' is certainly a stand-out within this prime location, a proven history of growing quality crops and vegetables, along with fattening lambs and wintering cows. Good rainfall meaning lower irrigation costs and fertile Templeton and Barhill soils. Water supplied by the CPW (Sheffield) Irrigation Scheme. At the western end of the farm is the immaculately presented homestead perfectly positioned to ensure shelter whilst retaining stunning views. Our vendors will consider offers on the separate titles. 81.2533ha on the home block and 47.7706ha on the block at the Eastern end.

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Deadline Sale (unless sold prior) 4pm, Fri 18 Oct 2019 3 Deans Avenue, Christchurch View by appointment Ben Turner 027 530 1400 ben.turner@bayleys.co.nz Craig Blackburn 027 489 7225 craig.blackburn@bayleys.co.nz WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/5510618

bayleys.co.nz

IT’S ALTOGETHER BETTER IN THE

Say “hello” to spring with the latest edition of New Zealand’s market-leading rural property magazine, Country, showcasing 123 of this season’s best farm, specialty and lifestyle property opportunities.

It’s a time for fresh property beginnings and intelligent conversations around the rural way of life brought to you by New Zealand’s number one rural real estate brand, Bayleys.

Country examines how farm leasing opens up new pathways for the next generation while benefitting farmers wanting to exit the land, and explores the implications of a low carbon future for rural landowners. Come and take a look at the perks of a farm that combines business and recreation, read about how berries could create a small block sweet spot, and peek into some

Leasing a new option for farmers Leasing brings opportunities for a new generation of farmers to get their feet on a farm.

The shed matters

Lifestyle property owners are finding innovative ways to create sheds with character and purpose.

innovative and character-filled sheds.

FARM, SPECIALTY AND LIFESTYLE PROPERTIES FOR SALE ISSUE 2 – 2019

Get your hands on Country magazine – call 0800 BAYLEYS or view online at bayley.co.nz/country An altogether better Country search starts here.

FEATURING

123

#1

RURAL REAL ESTATE BRAND

LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

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

Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services

RURAL rural@pb.co.nz 0800 FOR LAND

Property Brokers Limited Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008

Opportunity in Turua

What a cracker!

OPEN DAY

TENDER

WEB ID MOR02403 TURUA Huirau Road VIEW 8 & 15 & 22 Oct 11.00 - 12.00pm TENDER closes Thursday 24th October, 2019 at 4.00pm, This property has been faithfully farmed by the same (unless sold prior), Property Brokers, Morrinsville family for over 100 years and comes to the market in outstanding condition. With its long road frontage, four titles and exceptional infrastructure you need look no further. A total of 118.13 hectares, all being of flat Peter Lissington contour, 30 ASHB shed, producing 126,000 kgMS from Mobile 027 430 8770 the previous season, feed pad, stand off pad. The farm Office 07 280 5534 is well raced and set up for productivity. peterl@pb.co.nz

TENDER

Stuart Stobie

Mobile 021 776 173 Office 07 280 5534 stuart.stobie@pb.co.nz

3

WEB ID TOR70313 WHAKAMARU 1957 State Highway 32 View By Appointment A 482 ha property, comprising 367 ha of effective dairy TENDER closes Thursday 7th November, 2019 at 4.00pm, (unless sold prior), 37 Swanston Street, Tokoroa pasture, the balance in Eucalypt forest and native plantings along the wetlands. Past three seasons milking 950 jersey cows, with best production of 330,000 kgMS. This season there are 900 Friesians targeting Paul O'Sullivan 340,000 kgMS. Developed to a high standard, the 60 Mobile 027 496 4417 bail rotary is equipped with all the computerised Office 07 280 8502 technology needed for todays hi spec world. A full range paulo@pb.co.nz of support buildings adds to the easy management. 3 modern brick homes.

TENDER

Doug Wakelin

Mobile 027 321 1343 dougw@pb.co.nz

2

Top Grass Farm - 238 ha

NEW LISTING WEB ID PR68345

DANNEVIRKE 221 Tamaki River Road One of a kind, this excellent dairy unit is extremely well located just minutes south of Dannevirke township and centrally located to the Manawatu and Hawkes Bay. A development programme over the last 5 seasons has resulted in impressive production from this self-contained dairy operation with a 3 year average of 216,000 kgMS milking 500 cows.

A 2016 built 60 bail rotary cowshed is centrally located to the operation and features auto drafting and weighing, milk metering, ACR and inshed feed system.

pb.co.nz

Four homes provide ample accommodation on the property with the main homestead an impressive 5 bedroom 240 m2 two storey family home. Dairy units of this calibre in an affordable location which are fully compliant are unique in the current market.

TENDER

VIEW By Appointment TENDER closes Thursday 7th November, 2019 at 2.00pm, to be submitted to Property Brokers, 129 Main Street, Pahiatua

Jared Brock

Mobile 027 449 5496 Office 06 376 4823

John Arends

Mobile 027 444 7380 Office 06 376 4364

5

Jim Crispin

Mobile 027 717 8862 Office 06 374 8102

3

RURAL rural@pb.co.nz 0800 FOR LAND

Property Brokers Limited Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008

Ponui Farm

Magnificent retirement farm

DEADLINE SALE

WEB ID WR70321 CENTRAL HAWKES BAY 699 Kairakau Road 170 hectares Freehold 25 hectares Maori Freehold 157 hectares Leasehold approx.

Total approx. area 352 hectares Situated in the district of Elsthorpe, 32 km east of Waipawa. Great balance of contour from alluvial flats through rolling hill to steeper hill country. Reticulated water. An excellent 4 bedroom homestead and farm facilities including 4 stand woolshed. Ponui offers the discerning purchaser an opportunity to enter farm ownership at an affordable level while maintaining economies of scale.

DEADLINE SALE View By Appointment DEADLINE SALE closes Thursday 7th November, 2019 at 2.00pm, Property Brokers, 98 Ruataniwha Street, Waipukurau

4 Pat Portas

Mobile 027 447 0612 Office 06 928 0521 Home 06 855 8330 patp@pb.co.nz

2 2

Quality dairy investment

WEB ID DR70407 DANNEVIRKE LOT 2 322 Mangahei Road View By Appointment Ohawe is 53 ha in two titles, located 14 km from Dannevirke in the Tararua. This property has X factor appeal, outstanding natural landscape, showcasing rural NZ at its magnificent best. An appealing mix of rolling contour enhanced by attractive trees and a high standard of farm improvements. Homestead and self-contained cottage, three stand woolshed and covered yards, six well maintained farm sheds and workshop. Excellent fencing. Clean spring water Jim Crispin supply-gravity fed to troughs in all paddocks. great soil Mobile 027 717 8862 fertility- soil tests available.

Office 06 374 8102

BY NEGOTIATION

Home jimc@pb.co.nz

06 374 6768

Dunrobin - A trophy property

DEADLINE SALE

WEB ID AR70421 FROM $15,100,000 CAREW 1328 Cracroft Maronan Road View By Appointment • Mayfield Hinds Valetta Irrigation Scheme (One of the cheaper and most reliable irrigation schemes) • Irrigation dam for storage on farm • 70 bail rotory dairy shed (built 2007) with in shed feeding and computer technology • Pivot irrigation plus two Roto Rainers completing four runs each • Synlait supply • Five modern homes, four with double glazing with the Chris Murdoch main home of four bedrooms, two living areas plus Mobile 027 434 2545 office Office 03 307 9191 Home chris@pb.co.nz

pb.co.nz

03 307 2940

+ GST (IF ANY)

WEB ID OMR70439 DUNBACK 1750 State Highway 85 View By Appointment DEADLINE SALE closes Thursday 31st October, 2019 at Dunrobin presents a unique opportunity to purchasers 4.00pm, (unless sold prior) of a large scale 729 ha, specialist deer & beef breeding property or potential suitability for fine wool or forestry.

Located at Dunback just 19km inland from Palmerston and 73 km from Dunedin to the south and Oamaru to Greg Jopson the north. Natural breeding country with tussock and Mobile 027 447 4382 spring fed creeks, close to all services & port access. The Office 03 307 9196 property is fully deer fenced with well-planned gregj@pb.co.nz subdivision of five hill blocks and five paddocks plus lane leading to the deer complex, cattle yards and woolshed.

Large deer shed and holding yards.

Merv Dalziel

DEADLINE SALE

Mobile 027 439 5823 merv@pb.co.nz

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 7, 2019

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

43

TENDER Close 8th Nov @ 1pm Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008

Shalloch dairy farm

Open Days: Wed 9th, 16th & 23rd Oct 11am start, Bring a Bike & Helmet

TENDER - OUTSTANDING CENTRAL TARANAKI DRYSTOCK FARM Oamaru 363 Peebles Siding Road • •

pb.co.nz/OMR70300

134 ha (subject to survey) high performing Waitaki Plains dairy farm.

Totally flat and fully irrigated via wide laser levelled borders, with the majority of the borders on fence lines.

Well laned ensuring easy access to dairy with a variety of well established shelter belts, complete with duck pond and maimai.

36 aside HB dairy with Reed plant plus an in-shed feed system for grain 129 ha milking platform currently milking 495 cows producing 258,800 kgMS in the 2018/19 season (these figures include a further 8 ha not included in the sale).

Farm improvements include 2 x 8 bay calf rearing/implement sheds, 40 tonne grain silo plus a PK bunker.

Housing consists of 4 bedroom Oamaru Stone house with log fire and heat pump, 3 bedroom house with 2 x heat pumps and a 1 bedroom cottage with heat pump. All houses have garaging.

Ideally situated 20km from Oamaru.

This low cost irrigated property ($58 per ha/per annum) with majority Pukeuri Silt Loam soils and an appealing location is a must view.

• • • • • • •

DEADLINE SALE Deadline Sale closes Thu 24th Oct, 2019 at 4.00pm, (unless sold prior) Merv Dalziel Rural Sales Consultant M 027 439 5823 merv@pb.co.nz John Sinnamon Real Estate Manager M 027 457 0710 john.sinnamon@pggwrightson.co.nz

92- 287 Gordon Road, Toko, This impressive and long standing family farm consisting of 383 ha's (6 titles) is coming to the market after three generations of ownership. The farm has a history of continued development along with excellent fertiliser applications. Access is superb with a main metalled race from front to rear together with many lateral easy graded tracks. Subdivision is of a very high standard. Three water pumps supply trough water to every paddock. Stock traditionally wintered on the farm has been 715 dairy heifers May to May, 90 rising 2 year Steers, 520 ewes plus 200 hoggets. Also 120 dairy weaners are grazed from December each year. Buildings include a well presented recently modernised main 3 brm home, 2 other homes, 4 stand woolshed with extensive sheep and cattle yards, implement shed / workshop plus 5 supplement sheds. This property presents a once in a life time opportunity in the Taranaki rural market to purchase a top quality farm.

Owen Mills

M: 027 477 7302 E: owen@mgfn.co.nz

201 Broadway, Stratford

06 323 3363 Farm & Lifestyle Sales 357 Kellow Road, Manawatu

OPEN DAY THURSDAY

www.mgfn.co.nz TENDER

|

AFFORDABLE CROPPING/GRAZING

Are you looking for the perfect cropping/supplement block? Or an entry level grazing block?

If you are, this 23.3495 hectares (57.6978 acres) located approx.

6 km up the Waitotara Valley Road could be just what you are looking for! Currently being used to grow grain and with some improvement this property would be ideally suited to graze your young stock and/or perfect as a starter for your own beef stud!

With a drenching race plus loading ramp and a good hay barn and being flat in contour this block is sure to appeal.

Motivated Vendors look forward to your offer.

TENDER

Open Days:

Thursday 10 October 1:00pm - 1:30pm

Tender Closes:

4pm, Thursday 17 October 2019 at McDonald Real Estate Ltd, Hawera

Contact:

Rodney Perrett - 027 241 3979 Gemma Heath - 021 169 1010

OPEN FARM: Wednesday 9 & 16 October 10.30am - Midday A well located 90.9ha dairy unit close to Rongotea & 24km from Palmerston North.

Averaging 104,180kgMS over the past four years and 520kg per cow.

A great balance of Pukepuke sand and free draining consolidated sand soils.

The 200 cows are wintered on.

A modern 20 aside herringbone dairy, in shed feeding with a 300-cow capacity yard.

Four bedroom house.

In three titles: 42ha with the dairy shed, house and most of the other farm buildings ; 32ha and 16ha bareland. Tenders may be considered as a whole or combinations of.

Tenders Close 4.00pm Wednesday 6 November at our office 56 Stafford Street, Feilding Web ID RAL657

Robert Dabb

M 027 255 3992 E robertd@ruralandlifestylesales.com

Richard Anderson

M 027 543 1610 E richarda@ruralandlifestylesales.com

www.ruralandlifestylesales.com

06 765 8550

Waitotara Valley Road, Waitotara

eieio.co.nz # H00823

▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Licensed Under REAA 2008

THE DESTINATION FOR RURAL REAL ESTATE

Land is the biggest asset to any farming business so it pays to stay up to date with the market.

Connect with the right audience at

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate

LIS TI N G N EW

ENVIABLE BALANCE, GREAT INFRASTRUCTURE & POTENTIAL - 775HA Te Rau, 10284 Route 52, Pongaroa, Tararua Te Rau is an extremely well balanced sheep and beef breeding and finishing unit located a few minutes from Pongaroa. Over one third of the 730ha effective area is cultivable offering the ability to finish all stock and to trade. The balance contour is a mix of medium front hill country and medium to some steeper back hills. Te Rau has quality infrastructure with two tidy homes, a substantial modern woolshed and covered sheep yards complex, along with cattle yards and satellite yards.

Water supply is provided from the well proven Pongaroa water scheme to troughs in every paddock. Access is excellent, with road boundaries on three sides of the main farming block and several well sited tracks and lanes. Around 85ha of the 285ha flat to easy land has been extensively drained, and a capital fertiliser program over the last five years is starting to pay dividends. There are seven titles allowing purchase options. Te Rau is a high quality and well scaled breeding and finishing block with rural services and community facilities all close at hand. The hard work has been done - Te Rau is now set to provide a new owner with plenty of options to take it to the next level - an opportunity not to be missed!! A detailed property report is available. Viewing by Appointment.

Tender Closes 4pm, Thu 7 Nov 2019; Address for Tender; NZR Level 1, 16 Perry Street, Masterton 5810

WAIERUA - COASTAL BREEDING STATION- 573HA 631 Otahome Road, Whareama, Masterton Boasting a unique coastal location, in an established farming district and with some further productivity gains possible, welcome to Waierua! Located between Castlepoint and Riversdale beach Waierua is a 30-min drive from Masterton and features access to a stretch of Pacific coastline loaded with Paua and Crayfish and excellent fishing. There are numerous building sites that have stunning views over Castle Rock and the Pacific Ocean. The farming operation is a traditional sheep and beef summer dry breeding unit currently carrying approximately 2,200 ewes and hoggets, with 150 cows and heifers. There are around 470 ha of effective grazing land, mainly medium hill, with 42 ha of pine plantations. There is a four-bedroom plus office and sunroom dwelling, four-stand woolshed and other support buildings. The farm is set up to be run by one labour unit with good quad bike tracks and Otahome Rd enhancing access through the eastern side of the farm. The proximity to Masterton means there are off farm employment and top secondary schooling options. The local rural community supported primary school of Whareama is just a few kms away. This is a great opportunity to invest in a proven breeding unit situated in a special location......an opportunity not to be missed!

Tender Closes 4pm, Thu 31 Oct 2019; Address for Tender; NZR Level 1, 16 Perry Street, Masterton 5810

775 hectares Video on website

nzr.nz/RX2044219 Blair Stevens AREINZ 027 527 7007 | blair@nzr.nz Dave Hutchison 027 286 9034 | dave@nzr.nz NZR Real Estate Limited | Licensed REAA 2008

573 hectares Video on website

nzr.nz//RX2028131 Blair Stevens AREINZ 027 527 7007 | blair@nzr.nz Dave Hutchison 027 286 9034 | dave@nzr.nz NZR Real Estate Limited | Licensed REAA 2008

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 7, 2019

WELL DEVELOPED BARELAND UNIT 76 Brandon Hall Road, Bulls Located less than 2km from Bulls, significant development by the current owners has created a versatile, easy to run unit, currently operated as a dairy support unit. A feature is the mix of soil types and contour here that provide season round options; flat silts over a clay/gravel base with over 40 hectares mown for silage and hay, complement the highly consolidated, gentle sand ridges. Completely re-fenced, re-watered and drained approx 15 years, there is lane access to the majority of paddocks. A plethora of elevated building sites with wide outlooks exist, currently in four titles.

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

BIG VIEWS & FREE DRAINING SOILS

107.25 hectares Video on website

73 Vinegar Hill Road, Hunterville, Rangitikei

nzr.nz/RX2043197

45

26.99 hectares Video on website

nzr.nz/RX2017947 Located just off SH1 and 6km north of Hunterville, the outlook from here is simply stunning. The Kawhatau silt loams are great Auction 2pm, Thu 24 Oct 2019, Feilding winter soils and provide a variety of land-use options, with Club, 25 Kimbolton Road, stock water spring sourced and reticulated.

Feilding.

The modern two bedroom cottage with its wide deck, is Peter Barnett AREINZ privately sited on a terrace edge with the majestic river valley 027 482 6835 | peter@nzr.nz rolling out below - is this your weekend escape, perhaps NZR Limited | Licensed REAA 2008 extend it, move it (on piles), build again or perhaps a great Airbnb option?

Tender Closes 11am, Wed 16 Oct 2019, NZR, 20 Kimbolton Road, Feilding.

Peter Barnett AREINZ 027 482 6835 | peter@nzr.nz NZR Limited | Licensed REAA 2008

Farmers Weekly 7 October 2019

Auction:

Open Day: Tuesday, 8 Oct

Wednesday, 30 October 2019 Quality

&

12noon to 1.30pm

Location

An excellent opportunity has arisen with the availability of a top quality block of land situated in the prime location of Mystery Creek & Kaipaki, central to Cambridge, Te Awamutu & Hamilton

    

408 Mystery Creek Road, Kaipaki 41.02 hectares more or less - 1 title - extensive two-road frontage elite soil type - predominantly sandy loam - flat contour utilized for asparagus last 9 years, now sown with quality annual ryegrass multiple applications:- - dairy - finishing - cropping - horticulture - cattle stud - equine stud

Licensed Real Estate Agent - REAA2008

phone

07 870 2112

    

water supply from Pukerimu District Water Scheme a variety of general use shedding; 1 x fertiliser bunker very good cattle handling facilities, concrete base, galvanised rails & load-out race no dwelling but excellent building sites available web ref R1297 an outstanding block in a top quality location Brian Peacocke 021 373 113

office@pastoralrealty.co.nz

MREINZ

Accelerating success.

Reach more people - better results faster.

BEEF FINISHING

colliers.co.nz

Accelerating success.

Reach more people - better results faster.

DAIRY/BEEF FINISHING

colliers.co.nz

Accelerating success.

Reach more people - better results faster.

colliers.co.nz

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 7, 2019

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

49

Accelerating success.

Reach more people - better results faster.

colliers.co.nz

Accelerating success.

Accelerating success.

Reach more people - better results faster.

Reach more people - better results faster.

Total area 284 hectares, second generation dairy farm with many opportunities. You could not ask for a better location. It has a right to an 8 lot rural subdivision, subject to council approval. The property has a huge seam of blue and brown rock. Currently consented for farm use. Its close proximity to Auckland would make it ideal for developers needing to find a home for land fill. Currently milking 320 cows targeting this season 140,000kg MS, all wintered on including young stock, 30 aside herringbone shed with Westfalia milking plant, in shed feed system, 360 cow yard - a modern 4 bay calf shed, 5 bay implement shed and a 4 bay enclosed storage shed. Water supply comes via a bore, fed throughout the farm through 40mm pvc lines with storage tanks.

Contour flat to rolling with some steeper sidlings. Supported by a good central race system leading to 58 paddocks. In summer the farm grows 23 hectares of maize silage, and in winter 20 hectares oats. Suppliers for Open Country Dairy. Current sharemilker in place. A total of three homes, modern five bedroom family home, the original homestead and a managers home. A perfect opportunity for an investor seeking an alternative income. Approximately 25 minutes to Pukekohe, 55 minutes to Auckland and only 15 minutes to the ever expanding Pokeno. Call the Colliers team today for a full IM. View by appointment only.

colliers.co.nz

colliers.co.nz

Real Estate

VERSATILE FARMING OPPORTUNITY

STRONG WAITAHORA HILL-COUNTRY FARM

• Approximately 76 hectares flat-cultivatable and 280 hectares of hill country • 3-stand woolshed, night pen, sheep and cattle yards • Excellent infrastructure and standard of improvements • Strong soil types • 4-bedroom home, 2 bedroom cottage and Shearer’s Quarters • 21km from Dannevirke

Closing 4pm, Thursday 31st October

81.9ha (202 ac) of flat to easy contoured

Jerome Pitt M: 027 242 2199 O: 06 374 4107 E: @jeromep@forfarms.co.nz

farmland.

An all weather laneway through the property, well fenced and reticulated water system are

Graeme Thomson M: 027 450 7681 O: 06 374 4108 E: graemet@forfarms.co.nz

highlights.

Cattle yards, 4 stand woolshed, covered sheep yards complete this property.

LK0068450©

Property ID FF1299

This versatile farming property on Rakaiatai

For Sale by Negotiation Viewing by appointment.

Road, Makotuku, Dannevirke is a quality

www.forfarms.co.nz - FF2880 www.forfarms.co.nz

81.9 Hectares (202 acres

Tender (if not sold prior)

LK0099221©

370 hectares (914 acres) approximately (subject to survey)

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 7, 2019

A great first farm opportunity or added to an

LK0099543©

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

existing operation, this property is a must view. www.forfarms.co.nz - FF2895 www.forfarms.co.nz

Property ID FF1299

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50

RURAL | LIFESTYLE | RESIDENTIAL

NEW LISTING

THORNTON, BAY OF PLENTY 24 Smith Road Pumping Grass All Season • • • • • • •

Available for sale - 95 hectares in three titles, including 16.7 hectare support block which can be bought separately Average production - 92,601kg MS from 85 hectare milking platform 30 ASHB, two hay barns, three bedroom manager's home A simple farming operation, predominately all grass Great natural soil and water attributes, allow all year grass growth Pumping grass equals income, investors or first farm buyers must consider The long term lease is up, our vendor wants this property sold

3

1

2

TENDER

Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold By Private Treaty) Closes 4.00pm, Thursday 14 November

VIEW 12.00-1.00pm, Wednesday 16 October

Phil Goldsmith M 027 494 1844 | B 07 307 1620 E pgoldsmith@pggwrightson.co.nz pggwre.co.nz/WHK31043

NEW LISTING

NUKUHOU NORTH, BAY OF PLENTY 1956 State Highway 2 Intensive Finishing - 314.52 Hectares • • • • • •

Highly productive land with contour from flat and easy through to medium hill Currently finishing cattle, dairy grazing and has a South Suffolk sheep stud Intensively sub-divided, extensively raced, includes 60hectare deer fencing Strong fertiliser history, on fertile Whakatane Loam soils, reticulated water to most paddocks A good range of improvements maintained to a high standard, including two homes Ohope Beach is only 20km away, multiple schooling options, a rare opportunity

DEADLINE PRIVATE TREATY

Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 4.00pm, Thursday 14 November

VIEW 12.00-2.00pm, Thursday 17 October

Phil Goldsmith M 027 494 1844 | B 07 307 1620 E pgoldsmith@pggwrightson.co.nz pggwre.co.nz/WHK31052 PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

For more great rural listings, visit www.pggwre.co.nz www.pggwre.co.nz

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under the REAA 2008

Helping grow the country

NZ’s leading rural real estate company

Helping grow the country

RURAL | LIFESTYLE | RESIDENTIAL

EXCLUSIVE

TIRAU, WAIKATO 1420 State Highway 5 Private Hunting Estate • • • •

•

Gaining worldwide accolades from trophy hunters as one of New Zealand's leading outfitters 169 hectare freehold hunting park surrounded by 8,000 hectares of wilderness Spectacular lush green environment, tread game trails under the canopy of spectacular native forest and giant tree ferns With bespoke luxurious eco-friendly off grid hunting lodge function and wedding venue and additional three bedroom dwelling This very profitable business is offered for sale walk-in walkout as a going concern complete with forward bookings

• • •

Individually tailored hunts throughout New Zealand as per clients wishes Located midway between Cambridge and Rotorua For more details of this golden opportunity contact Martin today

7

7

2

$5.75M

Plus GST (if any)

VIEW By Appointment Only

Martin Lee M 027 497 0830 E martin.lee@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz/CAM31087

AUCTION

TAKAPAU, CENTRAL HAWKE'S BAY 39 Edgecombe Road Quality Farm - Quality Location • • • • • •

310.2049 hectares (766 acres) approximately Mainly flat to gently rolling contour Well fenced, fertilised and watered Spacious four-bedroom home plus three-bedroom cottage Excellent shedding 31km south of Waipukurau

AUCTION

Plus GST (if any) 2.00pm, Tuesday 22 October Waipukurau Club

VIEW By Appointment Only

Max Lyver M 027 597 5818 | B 06 858 6780 E mlyver@pggwrightson.co.nz pggwre.co.nz/WPK31025 PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

For more great rural listings, visit www.pggwre.co.nz www.pggwre.co.nz

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under the REAA 2008

Helping grow the country

NZ’s leading rural real estate company

Helping grow the country

RURAL | LIFESTYLE | RESIDENTIAL

NEW LISTING

ORTON, SOUTH CANTERBURY

PRICE BY NEGOTIATION Plus GST (if any)

Turn Key Proposition with Yield - 573 Hectares 'Waybrooke' is an established yet modern and well maintained tier one dairy unit that is self-contained including an adjoining 83 hectare irrigated support block. Currently milking 1650 cows with a 1750 cow consent in place for further growth potential under a closed livestock management system. Consent to farm issued until 2025 with a Farm Environment Plan completed and successfully audited (A).

Infrastructure consists of a renovated automated 80 bail rotary shed with three feed delivery systems, 600 cow yard and an efficient two pond effluent system which is distributed via pivot. Abundant irrigation water is a combination of ground water takes and supply from the Rangitata South Scheme and together this mitigates risk. There is a 6.9 hectare on farm storage pond to ensure reliability. Water is delivered by a balance of five centre pivots, three hard hose guns and sprinklers. Soil moisture monitoring system allows for accurate water application and timing. A balance of excellent quality soils have the capabilities of high production but allows for best management of climatic conditions and environmental compliance. Located in the heart of one of Canterbury's best dairy regions Waybrooke's presentation, production and financial capabilities are sure to impress.

Calvin Leen M 027 453 0950 E calvin.leen@pggwrightson.co.nz Simon Richards M 027 457 0990 E simon.richards@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz/TIM31075

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

RUAWAI, NORTHLAND Rare Opportunity on the Ruawai Flats 1124 hectares over four properties and 35 titles. Two of the dairy farms and cropping blocks are flat, Cartwright Road dairy farm, the support block and beef unit are easy rolling. Average of 689,000kg MS over last three years. Individual farm kg totals are available. Milking 1690 cows across the three farms.

60 bail rotary, 40 ASHB, 18 ASHB and 10 houses. The location is desirable and is an established dairy farming area. These farms carry options around utilisation of the flat land for future management. A unique opportunity to purchase either the entire holding or individually.

DEADLINE SALE

Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 2.00pm Wednesday 20 November

Ron Grbin M 027 471 6388 E rgrbin@pggwrightson.co.nz Dennis Wallace M 022 312 7704 E dennis.wallace@pggwrightson.co.nz Mel Currin M 021 134 6472 E mel.currin@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz/DAG30862

DEADLINE PRIVATE TREATY

'Birchdale' - Striking Breeding & Finishing Unit 'Birchdale' is an outstanding, 660 hectare farming operation that features a mix of easy to rolling hill country and flats. It is regarded as healthy stock country which is well suited to breeding and finishing. The land is complemented by wellmaintained farm infrastructure, two four-bedroom dwellings, good stock water supply systems, fencing and lane ways. Current farming practices include a mix of Composite sheep and Hereford cattle breeding and finishing. A striking, easily accessible, foothills property that represents one of the best purchasing options in Canterbury for some time.

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

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

pggwre.co.nz/CHR31095

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

For more great rural listings, visit www.pggwre.co.nz www.pggwre.co.nz

HAWARDEN, CANTERBURY

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under the REAA 2008

Helping grow the country

NZ’s leading rural real estate company

Helping grow the country

DEER STOCK MANAGER

Applications close Friday, 18 October 2019

SHEPHERD

The farm grows 200ha of specialist crops and has 250ha of pivot irrigation.

Any further enquiries phone Dean Gower 021 070 4500

Due to an internal promotion we have a vacancy for a shepherd to join our team at Glenaray Station, Southland, which runs 38,000 ewes, 1500 cows and 2500 hinds.

The property is organically certified with BioGro and has its own meat brand.

We offer ongoing training eg. dog training and support to attend AgIto courses.

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Accommodation is very comfortable single quarters. All food provided including cooked evening meal Monday to Friday and cooked winter lunches. Sky TV and internet. There is excellent hunting on the station and local rugby and squash clubs.

For more information please contact: Mike O’Donoghue, Manager 03 202 7720 evenings To apply please email CV to: office@glenaray.co.nz Applications close Friday, 18 October 2019

2X SALES PARTNERSHIP MANAGERS - SOUTH ISLAND Partnership MANAGER - NATIONAL LIVESTOCK & STUDSTOCK Partnership MANAGER

GlobalHQ is the country’s most innovative multi-media agri-information hub. We work hard to create valuable content that informs, inspires and entertains. We invest in great people, and products including the AgriHQ suite of data and analysis products, Farmers Weekly, On Farm Story and Dairy Farmer.

We have two full time employment opportunities, based in Feilding, for smart-thinking candidates with a genuine interest in agriculture, and knowledge of the business of farming.

You will be working at GlobalHQ alongside our brilliant publishing team to build client partnerships and smash budgets using the world-leading Salesforce CRM system.

Solid sales, digital advertising, social and general media knowledge would be an advantage, along with a good understanding to the G Suite cloud computing tools and usual office computer products.

NEED

STAFF? 0800 85 25 80

Situated in Cambridge, this is a family based farming business which currently includes a fattening and finishing unit for sheep and beef as well as a dairy unit milking cows.

We are setting up a new sheep dairy unit using an outdoor system. The unit will begin operation by March 2020, milking by August 2020. Expected numbers for our first year will be 800 – 1000 sheep, mainly hoggets.

We are currently seeking the following staff • Unit Manager – full time • 2IC – full time • General Hand – full time • Plus seasonal staff to cover lambing and the milking season All positions are hands on. Having practical knowledge and experience with sheep will be an advantage.

We are looking for highly motivated, forward thinking individuals who are team players.

Managers position comes with a house and there is shared staff accommodation available for the other positions.

We would like to invite expressions of interest by emailing us at office@astrafarms.co.nz with your details, work history, qualifications and relevant experience.

The job is mainly stock work with a bit of general work in quieter times.

A competitive remuneration package based on experience.

If you are keen you can send your CV and two references to maata@inspire.net.nz or phone Manager Lance Jones on 06 388 0679 for more information

Experienced Shepherd General PORANGAHAU Join our team on our 1000ha Sheep, Beef and Deer property in Central Hawke’s Bay. With 70% rolling country plus some steeper gullies, good facilities and working alongside enthusiastic owner, there’s never a dull moment and the role will include a bit of everything.

You will need good all-round skills, including a couple of good dogs, hand piece skills, experience fencing and driving a tractor.

On offer is a great 4 bedroom home with stunning views over the farm. We have a team culture centred around strong family values. 10 minutes away is the village of Porangahau with a pub, school, sports clubs etc and it’s a great, social community.

To apply contact Leyton King 0274 944 237 or leyton@agrecord.co.nz

Station Manager Taihape

farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz

Mokai Station is looking for a Station Manager.

Based just 25 minutes from the rural township of Taihape, Mokai Station is an 813ha breeding station, running 3000 sheep, 250 cattle and 300 deer that is a mix of high performance breeding and finishing.

JOBS BOARD

Mokai Station finishes its stock to good weights in the reliable summer climate Taihape has to offer. Mokai Station has set policies and an excellent infrastructure in place to support and help you achieve your KPI’s.

This is a great opportunity for someone with high energy levels to work closely with the owner and inject their enthusiasm and expertise into an exciting farming operation.

The farm utilises modern farming techniques and technology. You will need to demonstrate strengths in pasture and stock management.

If you have ambitions to succeed in the primary sector, this is the perfect place to start. There are great prospects at GlobalHQ and this job will give you a solid platform to launch your career in agribusiness.

We are looking for an applicant with strong organisational and planning skills, who has a sound knowledge of all the day-to-day on-farm tasks such as livestock rotations, animal health, feed budgeting and general skills to work as part of a team to further develop the farm.

To register your interest and request an application form and job description, please email: hr@globalhq.co.nz

A generous contracted remuneration package with incentives is on offer. A well-appointed 3 bedroom home within the Station is available to the right applicant. There is a Primary School 12km away from the property, with secondary school and early childhood centre in Taihape with a school bus available.

Applications close: October 8, 2019

Makokomiko Station is a 2000ha sheep, beef and deer property located in the Pukeokahu district north-east of Taihape running 17,000 stock units.

We are looking for a Shepherd with three or more years experience in shepherding with a capable team of dogs. Who will keep and maintain their living quarters and work place to a high standard, and is happy to cook for themselves.

WAIKATO

We would prefer: • Two years experience.

• Four trained dogs • Horse experience

WE’RE HIRING

Shepherd

Dairy Sheep Opportunities

Located near Waikaia township, which has a bistro, pub, store and tearooms.

We seek an enthusiastic person to join our team primarily to manage the livestock on our Washcreek Block. This block runs 60008000 stock units on flats through to hill country.

GET IN TOUCH

For all your employment ads Debbie 06 323 0765 classifieds@globalhq.co.nz

If you have a keen eye for stock, like to see a property develop and are looking for a step up then this role will be of interest to you.

Email CV to Rob Gollan Farm Consultant: rgollan@xtra.co.nz or phone 021 431 173 for more information

Block Manager Cadet Manager Positions Cattle Data Collector Dairy Dairy Sheep Opportunities (4x) Deer Stock Manager Farm Assistant Livestock Procurement Livestock Saleyard Manager Manager Overseer and Farmhands Programme and Product Lead Regional Work Programme Coordinator Sales Partnership Managers (2x) Shepherd Shepherd / General Station Manager

*FREE upload to Farmers Weekly jobs: farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz *conditions apply

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

LK0096815©

It runs 16,000 stock units of sheep and beef, with all stock finished.

Applications close Wednesday16th October 2019

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To apply please email CV to: office@glenaray.co.nz

Mt Cass Station, Waipara, is a diverse 3000ha coastal property run in conjunction with a 340ha flatland block.

You’re reading the Farmers Weekly and so are the people you want to employ.

LK0099518©

Glenaray is near Waikaia township which has a primary school, store, bistro, tea-rooms and pub. Also rugby, squash and tennis clubs and a golf course. There is excellent hunting on the property.

The position will suit someone with: • 2-3 years farming experience • 4-5 capable working dogs and the ability to do some general work when required • Your own saddle as most stock work is done on horses • Sound livestock handling skills • A good attitude with the willingness to learn • Ability to work unsupervised and complete work to a high standard • Attention to detail • Honesty and motivation, with a genuine passion for farming • Strong communication skills A sound remuneration package is offered and will be based on experience.

Email CV with 2 references to: riverhi11s@xtra.co.nz

WE ARE THE SOLUTION

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Accommodation is a good quality 3-bedroom home with primary school bus at gate.

For more information please contact: Mike O’Donoghue, Manager 03 202 7720 evenings

NORTH CANTERBURY

Contact Andrew Heard, General Manager, on 021 272 7522

We require an experienced shepherd on our 1600ha hill country breeding property running 14,500 sheep and beef stock units. Riverhills is located near Ohura in the King Country. This is an opportunity to further your farming career, working alongside the owner, with the opportunity to learn all aspects of farming.

We seek someone who has a passion for working with deer and a thorough understanding of all aspects of them.

BLOCK MANAGER

For this position you will need: ■■ 4-5 years livestock farming experience ■■ To be able to work collaboratively in a team environment ■■ A team of working dogs ■■ An ability and interest in using modern technology

Shepherd Position

We have a vacancy for this position at Glenaray Station, Southland. We farm 2500 hinds and carry all fawns through winter for meat production and breeding. We are currently in the process of increasing hind numbers to 3500.

LK0099361©

For more information contact: The Manager on 027 263 6116 or email CV to: jobsinopepe@gmail.com

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 7, 2019

LK0099356©

Drystock Station, Taupō

Applicant requirements: • Honest, hardworking and positive attitude • High standard of stock management and husbandry • Working dogs • Good understanding of pasture management • Competent in all general farm duties • Health and safety minded

NZ’s #1 Agri Job Board

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Experienced Shepherd

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

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54

DOLOMITE NZ’s finest BioGro certified Mg fertiliser For a delivered price call ....

We could save you hundreds of $$

0800 436 566

HOMES FARM SHEDS SUBDIVISIONS PUMPS

Tour 1: Molesworth Station, St James, and Rainbow Stations Dates 2019: Oct 21-24 Dates 2020: Jan 13-16, Feb 22-25, March 1-4, March 15-18, April 5-8

Gain an understanding of what facilitation is all about and the skills required to effectively facilitate groups and learning on our two-day practical workshop.

Cost $500 + GST Commodore Airport Hotel Christchurch 6-7 November 2019

LK0094587Š

Non-proprietary and Uncertified seeds

Commodity Levy Order Renewal Vote

Tour 2: D’Urville Island and Marlborough High Country Dates 2019: Dec 1-5 Dates 2020: March 22-26

Other dates available for either tour for groups on request.

Ph: 03 314 7220 Mob: 0274 351 955 Email info@southislandtoursnz.com www.southislandtoursnz.com

Herbage Seedgrowers’ – The Subsection of Federated Farmers manages a levy collected on all non-proprietary ryegrass and clover, which are known as the Commons, and uncertified herbage seed. This levy is used to fund the maintenance of the stockseed so that these public cultivars continue to be freely available to growers and the industry.

This Order under which the levy is collected now requires renewal and the Herbage Seedgrowers’ Subsection will issue ballots for a referendum on Friday 22 November 2019 with the voting period through to Monday December 9.

STEEL TANK SPECIALISTS Fuelcon Farm and Trailer Tanks by:

“Your Fuel Storage Solutions�

Please proof read carefully - check all spelling and details.

This is a low cost proof which is not colour accurate and should be used as a guide only.

The signing of this proof indicates that you have checked the spelling and details of this proof and have agreed that the artwork can proceed to production. Signfusion will not be liable for any errors detected after production has begun.

signature

Ballot papers will automatically be sent to those entitled to vote in the referendum but any herbage seed grower who would like to more information or to discuss the collection of the levy can contact Nick Hanson, Federated Farmers on 04 470 2161.

Client Description Date All artwork remains intellectual property of Signfusion until purchased by the client. No part of this concept, visual or artwork is to be reproduced either whole or in part without indebtedness to Signfusion.

SELLING SOMETHING?

Copthorne Hotel Palmerston North 12-13 February 2020

Advertise in Farmers Weekly

Register now or find out more www.rmpp.co.nz or call 027 565 7887

email classifieds@globalhq.co.nz

FO SALR E Phone Debbie Brown 0800 85 25 80 or

0800 383 5266 www.petrotec.co.nz/products

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Call or email us for your free copy of our plans Email: info@ezylinehomes.co.nz Phone: 07 572 0230 Web: www.ezylinehomes.co.nz

0800 85 25 80

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Are you a rural professional keen to learn the art of facilitation?

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

Bring your own 4X4 on a guided tour to discover more of the South Island.

With automatic release and spray system. www.vetmarker.co.nz 0800 DOCKER (362 537)

TH IN K P R EB UILT

SOLID – PRACTICAL

SOMETHING?

LAMB DOCKING / TAILING CHUTE

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

WELL INSULATED – AFFORDABLE

4X4 TAGALONG TOURS

SELLING

VETMARKER

Prices include delivery to your door!

55

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POWER CABLE

NEW HOMES

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

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Noticeboard

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 7, 2019

NOTICEBOARD REACH EVERY FARMER IN NZ FROM MONDAY

Information packs are available for the 2019/20 season

Advertise in the Farmers Weekly $2.10 + GST per word - Please print clearly

Address: Email:

info@nzadventures.co.nz Ph: 03 218 8569 027 550 6727 or 027 435 4267

www.nzadventures.co.nz

$2,700 +gst

Under Woolshed/Covered Yards Cleaning Specialist www.underthewoolshed.kiwi

Heading:

SCOTTY’S CONTRACTORS

Advert to read:

âœ

Phone:

LK0099293Š

Name:

$16,340 +gst

Combi Clamp Cattle Handling

We also clean out and remetal cattle yards – Call Us! FROM THIS

TO G IN RICT N I T COM UA DIS AR TAR

âœ

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

Phone Scott Newman Freephone 0800 2SCOTTY (0800 27 26 88) Mobile 027 26 26 27 2 New Zealand’s Number 1 service provider for under woolshed and covered yard cleaning since 2004

Sorting the men from the boys

TO THAT

LK0099152Š

Nominate a school on booking and we’ll donate $100 on payment of your account.

™

0800 227 228 www.combiclamp.co.nz

South Island - Stuart 027 435 3062

56

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

Noticeboard

ANIMAL HANDLING

ATTENTION FARMERS

DOGS FOR SALE

FLY OR LICE problem?

Electrodip - The magic eye sheepjetter since 1989 with unique self adjusting sides.

Incredible chemical and time savings with proven effectiveness.

Phone 07 573 8512 w w w. e l e c t r o d i p . c o m

IF YOU’RE THINKING of logging your pine woodlot, our totally independent assessment will tell you what you’ve got, what its worth, and how to achieve your share. Contact Ray Hindrup 027 353 4515 or hindrup.logs@gmail.com.

12-MONTH HEADING dog and bitch. Fast, firm, good command, pulling sides, station and trial potential.

Nolan Timmins. 06 862 7543.

DEERLAND TRADING LTD

12 MONTHS TO 5½-yearold Heading dogs and Huntaways wanted. Phone 022 698 8195.

QUICK SALE! No one buys or pays more NZ Wide! 07 315 5553. Mike Hughes.

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

FOR ONLY $2.10 + gst per word you can book a word only ad in Farmers Weekly Classifieds section.

Phone Debbie on 0800 85 25 80 to book in or email classifieds@globalhq.co.nz

ATTENTION FARMERS FAST GRASS www.gibb-gro.co.nz GROWTH PROMOTANT Only $6.00 per hectare + GST delivered Brian Mace 0274 389 822 brianmace@xtra.co.nz DAGS .25c PER KG. Replacement woolpacks.

PV Weber Wools.

Kawakawa Road, Feilding. Phone 06 323 9550.

DEERLAND TRADING LTD buying deer velvet this season and paying above the average. Also contractor required to buy deer velvet. Payment on commission basis. Contact 021 269 7608.

DOGS FOR SALE WE HAVE A TOP selection of young Huntaways for sale. We are not traders we are breeders trainers and sellers based in Southland. Transport to the North Island no problem.

Join us on facebook workingdogsnewzealand.

Check out our web site w w w. r i n g w a y k e n n e l s . co.nz. Ringway Kennels.

Phone 027 248 7704.

SIXTY DOGS on video.

Deliver, trial, guaranteed. www.youtube.com/user/ mikehughesworkingdog/ videos 07 315 5553.

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

GOATS WANTED

DOGS WANTED

FARM MAPPING FOCUS ON YOUR strengths with a farm map showing paddock sizes.

Contact us for a free quote at farmmapping.co.nz or call us on 0800 433 855.

FOR SALE SERIOUS INCINERATORS. Heavy duty long lasting. w w w. i r o n t r e e p r o d u c t s . co.nz Phone 021 047 9299.

BOOK AN AD. For only $2.10 + gst per word you can book a word only ad in Farmers Weekly Classifieds. Ph Debbie on 0800 85 25 80 to book in or email classifieds@ globalhq.co.nz

FERAL GOATS WANTED. All head counted, payment on pick-up, pick-up within 24 hours. Prices based on works schedule.

Experienced musterers available.

Phone Bill and Vicky Le Feuvre 07 893 8916.

GOATS WANTED. All weights. All breeds.

Prompt service. Payment on pick up. My on farm prices will not be beaten.

Phone David Hutchings 07 895 8845 or 0274 519 249. Feral goats mustered on a 50/50 share basis.

HORTICULTURE

NZ KELP. FRESH, wild ocean harvested giant kelp.

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

LEASE FARM WANTED CURRENT LEASE EXPIRING. After leasing for 25 years we are looking for another Dryland property to take on for 3-5 years.

2500 or above stock units.

South Island wide. Anything considered. Mike Bowler 027 607 2595 / 03 319 8088 or lobow.nz@gmail. com

PROPERTY WANTED HOUSE FOR REMOVAL wanted.

North Island.

Phone 021 0274 5654.

PUMPS HIGH PRESSURE WATER PUMPS, suitable on high headlifts.

Low energy usage for single/3-phase motors, waterwheel and turbine drives. Low maintenance costs and easy to service. Enquiries phone 04 526 4415, email sales@hydra-cell.co.nz

STOCK FEED

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

HAY 12 EQUIVALENT squares $70. STRAW 12 equivalent squares $55.

BALEAGE at $70. Unit loads available. Phone 021 455 787.

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 7, 2019

TRACTOR PARTS JD 6510, 6420, 6430, 6434, dismantling Andiquiparts. Phone 027 524 3356.

FOR SALE

BOOK AN AD. For only $2.10 + gst per word you can book a word only ad in Farmers Weekly Classifieds section. Phone Debbie Brown on 0800 85 25 80 to book in or email classifieds@globalhq.co.nz

UTE MATS

SELLING

FITS ALL flat deck, wellside and trailer decks. Non slip, durable, easy to clean.

FREE freight delivery when you mention this ad.

Call Burgess Matting & Surfacing Ltd on 0800 808 570 www.burgessmatting. co.nz

SOMETHING?

WANTED TO BUY

Have something to sell?

Advertise in Farmers Weekly

WORKABLE WOOL PRESS. Will look at manual wool press as needed for a smaller block holding.

Must be in good condition.

Phone 09 409 5586.

SAWN SHED TIMBER including Black Maire.

Matai, Totara and Rimu etc. Also buying salvaged native logs.

Phone Richard Uren. NZ Native Timber Supplies. Phone 027 688 2954.

Phone Debbie Brown 0800 85 25 80 or email classifieds@globalhq.co.nz

Livestock Noticeboard

Hillcroft Yearlings Est. 1960

Our top genetics AVAILABLE NOW as well grown yearling bulls!

LIVESTOCK ADVERTISING

Hillcroft bulls: Born and bred on our closed breeding unit.

No bulls have been leased.

HAVE A SALE COMING UP?

Call Andrea 0800 85 25 80 livestock@globalhq.co.nz

45 Angus bulls

Suitable for beef and dairy cows.

Our top bulls!

20 Herefords bulls

Many suitable for heifer mating. Half in top 5% for calving ease and low birth weight.

Malcolm & Fraser Crawford: Matahuru Rd, Ohinewai Malcolm Phone 07 828 5709; Fraser Phone 07 828 5755, 0272 85 95 87

Deliver your ram sale messaging to every farm letterbox nationwide with a weekly publication that farmers choose first for news, opinion, market updates and even their own advertising.

2523 RAM SALES

For further information contact our Noticeboard sales team on 0800 85 25 80 or email livestock@globalhq.co.nz

farmersweekly.co.nz

ANGUS SELLING CALVING EASE YEARLING BULLS

ON FARM 3 Omaka Road, SH 43, Taumarunui

Enquiries to your local stock agent or Alan & Catherine Donaldson ph 07 896 6714 Alan & Catherine Donaldson p: 07 896 6714 • e: agcsdonaldson@gmail.com • www.pukenuiangus.co.nz

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

LK0099463©

hillcroftangus • www.hillcroftangus.co.nz

Livestock Noticeboard

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 7, 2019

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

57

S

STOCK FOR SALE

PAKI-ITI ROMNEY

80 AUT FRSN/HERE STEERS 380-400kg 80 1YR HOME BRED ANGUS BULLS 450kg

BVD, EBL & Bovis Tested STOCK REQUIRED YOUNG EWES with LAF 1YR FRSN BULLS 250-280kg

1YR HEIFERS 240-300kg + 2YR BEEF BRED HEIFERS 350-420kg ANG X STEERS 460-530kg

The Coopworth ewe is the ‘engine’ room of your farm. A sound productive sheep with comprehensive SIL validation.

Consistently ranking ahead of the rest in Sheep Genetics for the modern forward thinking farmer

www.dyerlivestock.co.nz

CoopworthGenetics

• • • •

ECZEMA TOLERANT

Enhanced growth and meat yield option Rams sold from a stabilised flock focused on fertility Added benefits of hardiness Rams sold as 22ths

paki-iti.co.nz

Visit to view our breeding programs

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

RAMGUARD TESTING SINCE 1985

LK0098920©

***** RATING

• • • •

Structurally sound Robust functional sheep that survive Achieving less Parasites and Dags No ewes worm drenched, dipped or vaccinated WormFEC™

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

Are you one tup ahead?

ROMNEYS

The mainstay and back bone of our breeding operation. Over 40 years’ of high selection pressure under commercial conditions has put these rams on the map. Sheep that ‘hold it together’ during tough times and deliver predictable and repeatable performance.

LK0099215©

www.coopworthgenetics.co.nz

PAKI-ITI ROMTEX

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

Coopworth breeders are to the fore in breeding for traits like:

Visit the website for your local Ram Breeder’s contact details

PAKI-ITI ROMTEX

• Breeding for constitution, structural soundness and performance • All round performance – fertility, growth, ewe efficiency, survival • Five year lambing average - 150% unshepherded

Ross Dyer 0274 333 381

Superior Maternal Worth: Reproduction | Survival | Meat Growth | Wool | All SIL Recorded

• Worm tolerant sheep to reduce the need for drench • FE testing • Eye muscle scanning to produce the best carcass for the market • Ewes rearing their own weight in lambs

PAKI-ITI ROMNEY

LK0094510©

Profitability Surprise

PAKI-ITI RAMS • 160 clients purchased or leased Paki-iti rams last year • Rams bred on a 870ha hard hill country property rising up to 637m asl (2090f asl)

ROMTEX

Bred out of our replacement stud Romney ewe hoggets (genetic gain) by robust and structurally sound high index Texel rams. Robust and meaty rams run under the same conditions as the Romneys and subject to the same strict culling standards.

Zandy Wallace P: 06 372 2551 M: 0226 580 680 E: farm@waiitirams.co.nz

LK0099116©

SUFTEX

A nationally proven and predictable terminal ram.

We understand and appreciate the need for culling/ selection pressure so have a strong focus on providing structurally sound rams with a focus on longevity.

www.waiitirams.co.nz

BULL SALE RESULTS 2019 Publish your bull sale results with us and provide stud bull breeders with valuable market information.

Farmers Weekly spring bull sale results e-newsletter* starts October 4th.

Contact Andrea on 027 446 6002 or livestock@globalhq.co.nz to sign up or include your sale results.

LK0099502©

* Delivery of the Bull Sales e-newsletter is subject to the submission of bull sale results.

DON’T MISS OUT.

farmersweekly.co.nz

Livestock Noticeboard

PYRAMID DOWNS

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 7, 2019

WANTED

Est 1993

2018 spring born hfrs F12s $1650

Southland 2 Year Polled Hereford Bulls

Weekly Auctions

F8-F11s $1550 Unrecorded $1450

Monday night – Glenside Simmentals – Black Maternal Bull Sale Tuesday night – Hazlett Livestock Dairy Service Bull Sale Wednesday night – North Island

Sale Date: Wednesday 16th October, 2019 At Pyramid Downs, RD 7, Gore

For more information go to bidr.co.nz or contact the team on 0800 TO BIDR

Contact: C.H. Miller Phone: 03 202 5339 Mobile: 027 431 9759 Email: pyramid@esi.co.nz

Bid, buy, sell all things rural

2019 autumn born hfrs

1. Mixed-aged purebred Wagyu bulls

2019 spring born

F12s $1250

100kg lwt hfrs

2. 18-month purebred Wagyu heifers 3. Bloodlines include Itimicho, Fukukane and Tairaire LK0098894©

Thursday night – South Island

The following mixed-aged cattle for sale

North Island Ph Tim Brandon

Ph: Michael 021 635 021 wagyupurebrednz@hotmail.com Albany, New Zealand wagyu pure bred nz

027 443 7420 South Island Ph TJ Visser 027 314 8833

ANNUAL YEARLING HEREFORD BULL SALE WAIAU HEREFORD STUD MONDAY 21st OCTOBER at 1:00pm At the Selling Arena 1202 Lillburn Valley Road Tuatapere

CONTACT: Jamie King 027 751 4157

Facebook: Waiau Hereford Stud

www.carrfieldslivestock.co.nz

Ram Auction

Monday 4th November 12:30pm Feilding Sale Yards Flock Rams from FE tolerant sires

LK0099577©

Carrfields Agent: Kelvin Lott 027 226 6153

9th Annual Spring Sale

46 Yearling Bulls Sterndale, Totara Valley Wednesday 9 October 2019 1pm www.sternangus.co.nz

LK0094561©

85 Yearling Hereford Bulls BVD + Lepto clear Well grown, big framed purebred bulls

STER N ANGUS

SINCE 1937

SIL recorded. EMA Scanned. 20 years Ramguard testing

yearling bull sale Tuesday 15th October 2019 – 12.30pm 341b Matauri Bay Road, RD1, Kaeo, Northland

Puketauru Coopworths Inquiries: Ryan Shannon, PGGW M: 0275 650 979

53 Lots: 12 Autumn Born & 41 Spring Born Yearling Bulls The stud herd is run under commercial conditions on hill country • Matauri is a leading provider of NZ based genetics in the Australasian industry • Matauri genetics have had huge success in a wide variety of environments having been used in well over 200 stud herds

Nikau Coopworth has confidence in a vibrant sheep industry Efficient productive ewes with high disease tolerance and low drench input has been the successful policy of Nikaus breeding program for over 40 years Tackle FE head on and reduce ewe wastage, increase weaning % Maximize refugia and protect the effective life of your drenches – top FEC genetics and no drench ewe flock.

Sale on Monday 4 November, Tuakau Saleyards

Increase lamb Survival and Weaning Weight great mothering ability and milk production Successfully mate hoggets

www.nikaucoopworth.co.nz  09 2333 230

• Matauri Reality 839, a trait leader for calving ease and who has sons in the sale, has registered progeny approaching 5500 CONTACTS Cam Heggie Bruce Orr Neil Miller

027 501 8182 027 492 2122 027 497 8691

Tom Bayly Colin Maxwell

027 415 4125 09 405 0357

For more info please email colin@matauriangus.com or visit www.matauriangus.com

LK0099558©

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

LK0099441©

58

Livestock Noticeboard

SALE TALK

Paddy was walking down a street when he saw his buddy Mick driving a brand new Mercedes.

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

LIVESTOCK ADVERTISING Are ewe looking in the right direction?

farmersweekly.co.nz

“Sue gave it to me” Mick replied.

“You’re a smart man!” said Paddy. Them clothes would never have fitted you”.

Affordable $ and sense

LK0099514©

“Mick, where’d you get that car?”

“Well, Paddy, let me tell you what happened … we were driving out on a country road at 6 in the morning, in the middle of nowhere.

Sue pulled off and headed into the woods, she parked the car, got out, threw off all her clothes and said, ‘Mick, take whatever you want’. So I took the car!”

59

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

Purebred Registered Red Devon Yearling Bulls for sale

Mick pulled up next to him with a wide grin on his face.

“She gave it to you?

I knew she was kinda sweet on ya lad, but a new Merc?”

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

For details, see Red Devon website/WillsNet Stud http://www.reddevoncattle.co.nz/stud_profiles_WillsNet.php Inquiries to Don 06 375 8589

Your source for PGG Wrightson livestock and farming listings Cattle Sheep Other Key: Dairy WAIROA CATTLE SALE

LIVESTOCK ADVERTISING

HAVE A SALE COMING UP?

Thursday 10th October @ 11am PGG Wrightson will offer approx 650 cattle including: 135 2yr Heifers 410 1yr Steers 105 1yr Heifers Special Entries A/c Cricklewood Stn 55 Top 1yr Ang Strs A/c Te Tiki Stn 40 1yr Ang Strs 45 2yr Ang Hfrs A/c Okare Stn 150 1yr Ang Strs 70 2yr Ang Hfrs A/c Whataroa Stn 45 1yr Ang&Ang/Hfd Strs 40 1yr Ang&Ang/Hfd Hfrs A/c Kauhouroa Stn 50 1yr Ang&Ang/Hfd Strs 45 1yr Ang&Ang/Hfd Hfrs A/c Roscommon 20 1yr Ang Strs Grand opportunity to purchase exceptionally well bred lines of hill country station bred cattle.

Enquiries Ian Rissetto 0274 449 347 | 06 838 8604 Mason Birrell 0274 967 253 | 06 838 7091

Central Otago Spring Cattle Sale WAIPIATA SALEYARDS Signposted from Ranfurly 17th October 2019 Commencing at 12:00 Midday Light Luncheon provided 2 YEAR STEERS

Call Andrea

A/c DJ Andrew Tiroiti • 200 Hereford/Angus/Angus X

0800 85 25 80 livestock@globalhq.co.nz

Supplied by Lindsey Thompson

A/c Auripo Enterprises Oturehua • 150 Hereford/Angus/Angus X A/c Eweburn Station Ranfurly • 150 Hereford/Angus/Charolais A/c Moorebattle Park Farm Poolburn • 100 Angus/Angus X

1st ANNUAL YEARLING BULL SALE

1 YEAR STEERS A/c Auripo Enterprises Oturehua • 150 Hereford/Angus/Angus X

OKAWA HEREFORD STUD C/ Nick & Penny France 518 Upper Downs Road RD 8, Mayfield Friday 18th October 2019 1.30pm On Farm 38 R1 Bulls Focused on performance Suitable for heifer & cow mating beef & dairy

www.carrfieldslivestock.co.nz

11.15 Beef Heifers 12.00 Bulls/Steers Approx. 800 Calves 200 Autumn/Spring Beef Heifers 250 Friesian Bulls 350 Autumn/Spring Beef Bulls/Steers

The above cattle are all station bred and will be sorted into lines to suit intending purchasers.

CONTACT: Tony Arscott 021 187 7077

www.carrfieldslivestock.co.nz

EXPERT LOCALS. NATIONWIDE REACH.

Vaughn Larsen (PGGW) 027 801 4599 Gareth Price (NZFL) 027 477 7310 LK0099562©

Carrfields Agent: Callum Dunnett 027 587 0131

Tuesday 8th October

A/c Rocky Ridge Farm Oturehua • 30 Mixed Sexed Angus/Angus X

LK0099503©

PGGW Agents: John McKone 027 229 9375 Simon Eddington 027 590 8612

Thursday 10th October, 1.30pm Signposted from Millers Flat township 2500 ½ Bred Ewe Hoggets (shorn early August).

Hogget Micron Ave 23, Flock Micron Ave 25 Footroot free property. Sired by top Craigneuk ½ Bred Rams.

Flock meets all New Zealand Merino Smartwool Contract Criteria and has won multiple meat awards throughout the country.

Hoggets are on 5-n-1 programme, have been dipped, off shears and drenched with Matrix.

Auctioneers Note: These hill country ½ bred hoggets come thoroughly recommended by the auctioneers. They will be drafted into lines to suit all intending purchasers. Beaumont Station have a great reputation for producing very well bred stock that shift to any environment. Grand opportunity to purchase top quality breeding hoggets.

Dave Lilley (PGW) 027 591 6412 Richard Hore (Vendor) 027 484 9875 Alan Hore (Vendor) 027 446 6023

FRANKTON DAIRY BEEF

Moorebattle Park Farm Poolburn • 130 Hereford/Angus/Angus X

CONTACT Vendors: Nick & Penny France 03 303 9749 or 027 567 8019

BEAUMONT STATION ON FARM ½ BRED EWE HOGGET SALE

pggwrightson.co.nz/bidr

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

List Now. Buy Now.

Helping grow the country

When selling livestock this spring, list now through your accredited livestock agency on bidr.co.nz - New Zealand’s newest rural trading platform offering real-time online auctions.

With a nationwide reach and over 140 accredited livestock assessors, bidr. co.nz provides a platform with better outcomes for farmers and their livestock.

Selling or buying, contact your local livestock agent to find out how easy it is to trade livestock with bidr.co.nz now.

bidr.co.nz

LK0099150©

FARMERS WEEKLY – October 7, 2019

MARKET SNAPSHOT

60

Market Snapshot brought to you by the AgriHQ analysts.

Suz Bremner

Mel Croad

Nicola Dennis

Cattle

Reece Brick

Caitlin Pemberton

Sheep

BEEF

William Hickson

Deer

SHEEP MEAT

VENISON

Last week

Prior week

Last year

NI Steer (300kg)

6.10

6.10

5.80

NI lamb (17kg)

8.65

8.60

8.40

NI Stag (60kg)

9.55

9.50

11.40

NI Bull (300kg)

5.85

5.75

5.35

NI mutton (20kg)

5.60

5.55

5.10

SI Stag (60kg)

9.45

9.40

11.40

NI Cow (200kg)

4.70

4.70

4.30

SI lamb (17kg)

8.50

8.50

8.10

SI Steer (300kg)

6.00

5.90

5.70

SI mutton (20kg)

5.60

5.60

5.10

SI Bull (300kg)

5.60

5.55

5.05

Export markets (NZ$/kg)

SI Cow (200kg)

4.40

4.35

4.20

UK CKT lamb leg

US imported 95CL bull

8.62

8.59

6.39

US domestic 90CL cow

7.74

7.75

6.52

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

10.38

9.22

North Island lamb slaughter price

8.5

$/kg CW

$/kg CW $/kg CW

Oct

Dec 5-yr ave

Feb

5-yr ave

Apr

Jun

2017-18

Dairy

Coarse xbred ind.

Aug 2018-19

Apr 2017-18

Jun

Last week

Prior week

Last year

-

2.78

3.21

3095

3125 2660

2510

AMF

4925

5080

5075

Butter

4100

4100

4025

Milk Price

6.90

6.90

6.81

320

Sep-18

Jan-19

Mar-19

May-19

Jul-19

Sep-19

Close

YTD High

Meridian Energy Limited (NS)

5.21

5.54

3.38

Auckland International Airport Limited

9.1

9.9

7.065

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corporation Ltd

16.94

17.8

12.3

13.16

18.04

10.42

Spark New Zealand Limited

4.5

4.705

3.54

Mercury NZ Limited (NS)

5.19

5.62

3.51

Ryman Healthcare Limited

12.93

13.62

10.4

Contact Energy Limited

8.54

9.05

5.82

Port of Tauranga Limited

6.46

6.7

4.9

Fletcher Building Limited

4.84

5.55

4.28

Listed Agri Shares

Close

YTD High

YTD Low

The a2 Milk Company Limited

13.16

18.04

10.42

Comvita Limited

3.11

5.42

2.5

11

12.5

9.4

3.66

4.85

3.15 1.47

400

Fonterra Shareholders' Fund (NS)

380

Foley Wines Limited

1.79

2

Livestock Improvement Corporation Ltd (NS)

0.85

1.08

0.75

360

Marlborough Wine Estates Group Limited

0.215

0.24

0.192

New Zealand King Salmon Investments Ltd

2.31

2.98

1.76

PGG Wrightson Limited

2.33

2.5

0.47

Sanford Limited (NS)

6.91

7.06

6.35

Scales Corporation Limited

4.99

5.13

4.34

SeaDragon Limited

0.002

0.003

0.001

Seeka Limited

4.84

5.35

4.2

Synlait Milk Limited (NS)

9.05

11.35

8.45

Nov-18

Jan-19

Mar-19

May-19

Jul-19

Sep-19

WAIKATO PALM KERNEL 350

T&G Global Limited S&P/NZX Primary Sector Equity Index

$/tonne

3000 2900 Oct

Nov Dec Latest price

Jan

Feb 4 weeks ago

Mar

5pm, close of market, Thursday

Company

Delegat Group Limited

Sep-18

3100

YTD Low

The a2 Milk Company Limited

420

320

3200

US$/t

Nov-18

440

* price as at close of business on Thursday

2800

753

Company

340

WMP FUTURES - VS FOUR WEEKS AGO

787

Top 10 by Market Cap

400

2940

2665

787

DAP

vs 4 weeks ago

SMP

304

-

$/tonne

WMP

523

314

-

CANTERBURY FEED BARLEY Prior week

616

314

-

Jun-19 Aug-19 Sept. 2020

DAIRY FUTURES (US$/T)

616

30 micron lamb

360

Last price*

Aug 2018-19

Urea

3.20

$/tonne

6.25

Nearby contract

Jun

Last year

2.85

440

Apr-19

Apr 2017-18

Prior week

-

480

Dec-18 Feb-19 Sept. 2019

Feb

Last week

37 micron ewe

CANTERBURY FEED WHEAT

6.75

NZ average (NZ$/t)

Super

7.25

Oct-18

Dec 5-yr ave

Fertiliser

Aug 2018-19

Grain

Data provided by

MILK PRICE FUTURES

5.75

Oct

FERTILISER

(NZ$/kg)

$/kg MS

$/kg CW

6.5

WOOL

Feb

8.5

5.5

5.0

Dec

9.5

6.5

5.5

Oct

South Island stag slaughter price

7.5

7.5

4.5

4.5

8.5

10.5

8.5

South Island steer slaughter price

9.5

11.5

South Island lamb slaughter price

6.0

North Island stag slaughter price

6.5

4.5

5.0

Last year

10.5

6.5

5.5

Last week Prior week

7.5

5.5

4.5

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

7.5

$/kg CW

6.0

Last year

11.5 10.30

Export markets (NZ$/kg)

North Island steer slaughter price

Last week Prior week

$/kg CW

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

Ingrid Usherwood

300

2.53

2.81

2.43

15844

17434

15063

S&P/NZX 50 Index

10821

11219

8732

S&P/NZX 10 Index

10473

11001

8280

250 200

Sep-18

S&P/FW PRIMARY SECTOR EQUITY

Nov-18

Jan-19

Mar-19

May-19

Jul-19

Sep-19

15844

S&P/NZX 50 INDEX

10821

S&P/NZX 10 INDEX

10473

NI SLAUGHTER STEER ( $/KG)

6.10

NI SLAUGHTER MUTTON ( $/KG)

5.60

SI SLAUGHTER LAMB ( $/KG)

8.50

VERY HEAVY EWE HOGGETS AT FEILDING PRIME SALE ( $/HD)

208

The weather isn’t helping NORTH ISLAND

N

ORTHLAND’S in a great position. Soil moisture is at an optimum level, better than this time last year, and there’s very good grass growth so there’ll be little need for supplementary feed a bit further down the track. Mating has starting on dairy farms. But farmer morale is low, especially now the banks are insisting they move from paying interest only on their mortgages to paying principal as well.

Around Pukekohe the weather’s been unsettled with intermittent rain, showers, wind and a little hail. Cool conditions and low light continue to suppress crop growth. Outdoor vegetable growers are taking whatever limited opportunity they have to get work done.

Waikato has been having cool nights.

There was rain and sun last week and quite a bit of wind. Despite being cool the overall grass growth is romping away and some farmers are shutting up paddocks for silage, which is early. Cows are in good nick as they head into the mating period. A sale of young Speckle Park cattle on a Waikato farm fetched good prices.

The top heifer sold for just over $25,000.

And Tatua suppliers will be celebrating.

The tiny Waikato co-op announced its farmers will get $9.66/kg of milksolids though the company will retain $1.16 of that for investment in the business. That compares to Fonterra’s payout of $6.35.

In Bay of Plenty the wind finally stopped blowing by the end of the week.

It had been really unpleasant working outside and stopped farmers who dock in the paddock, putting up scrim to make temporary yards. Lambing percentages are only average. Feed on sheep and beef properties is adequate but more plentiful on dairy farms.

King Country had a week of wind, rain and squally showers but the weather had calmed down by Friday. Farmers have been waiting to crack on with docking so will have spent Friday making the most of the fine weather.

Taranaki’s been having a typically spring week – sunny one minute and hosing down the next. There’s been snow to quite low levels on the mountain and some hail. Generally it’s been cold for the time of the year. Most would say milk flow is good but it would be better with more settled weather. It’s the same for pasture growth. It’s good but not as good as it could be. Farmers have been going to meetings where they can fit them in. Fonterra’s annual results meeting and the Action for Healthy Water Ways consultation meetings have been held.

East Coast also had four seasons in about two hours most days last week.

The consultant we speak to says they’ll still take every drop of rain they can get though. It’s needed to fill dams to give farmers a bit of confidence going in to summer. Docking’s well and truly under way for most guys, who are generally tight-lipped about how it has gone. They want to hear what their neighbour says first. Survival has been outstanding and lambs have grown well. Tuesday’s cattle fair was buoyant. There’s a lot of protein missing in Asia because of swine fever

SLOW GOING: Farmers in Mid and South Canterbury are worried about slow pasture growth this spring.

and people are hoping the gap will be filled by New Zealand beef.

Hawke’s Bay orchardists who invested in net covers for their orchards will be relieved they did after hail pummelled trees last week. Apple orchards have varying degrees of damage. It will take a while for the extent to be revealed. There’s talk of a poor summer fruit season this year because of the hail and some grape vines are also bruised and battered. It was the worst hail storm since the early 1990s.

Ruapehu looked stunning under clear blue skies on Friday but earlier the weather that hit Rangitikei and Manawatu was cold and horrible. It was trying to snow in the hill country and we’re told that will have been a kick in the guts for late-lambing ewes. It will have also slowed pasture growth.

Wairarapa woke to another frost on Friday morning and the wind machines have been whirring in vineyards.

There’s a good dusting of snow on the Tararua Ranges and it was far too cold in Horowhenua last week. Cows and calves need sun on their backs. The cows need to perk up a bit because it’s mating time this month and they also should hit peak milk flow. Asparagus hates the cold too. It’s running about three weeks late.

SOUTH ISLAND It was a variable week weather-wise in Nelson with a little bit of hail in some areas but with fruit crops just coming into the flowering season it’s not been damaging. Some days after a frosty start, temperatures might get up to 16C and it could be nice and sunny then pouring with rain by lunchtime. Flowering on the pipfruit is under way and our orchard contact says they need some steady fine days with a bit of warmth for the bees to do their work.

When we rang a vineyard owner in Marlborough they’d just come off a fourth night of frost protection. The windmills had been going since 2am and a low of -2.5C had been recorded. The sauvignon blanc was just about at bud burst and chardonnay and pinot are well on the way to first leaf, so very vulnerable. It’s an on-edge time. Soil temperatures are right down to 7C so pasture growth has slowed and they need a good 25mm of warm rain and sun to boost lamb growth. Docking

on the hill country is a good way through.

There have been 10% losses with the later lambs because of damaging sleety southwest storms.

On the West Coast it’s been appalling weather though our farmer used different terminology. It’s been cold and wet and a lot of pasture damage has been done.

They’re standing cows off the paddocks as much as possible. Our contact was just about to go and feed a mob of calves.

Feeding out means a lot of extra work and stress. Everyone’s complaining they’re short of feed. Most dairy farmers’ production is down. They’ve almost finished calving.

Mid Canterbury had another unsettled week with snow on the upper plains, wind, rain and the odd warm day. The weather is slowing cultivation and sowing of spring crops. It is also holding pasture growth back with dairy farmers now starting their second round of grazing and covers not being where they should be.

Supplement is still being used to balance the feed gap.

Our contact in Central Otago was judging the wool handling at the Merino shearing competition when we rang. He says there was a good 10cm of snow on Monday and another fall on Wednesday.

There’s been lots of moisture and it’s been hard on the lambs though survival rates so far have been pretty good. Elsewhere in Otago calving is nearly finished.

Conditions have been damp. They now need a bit of heat to make the grass grow.

It was very wet in Southland late last week and they’re looking forward to spring settling in. Early September was good with fantastic grass cover but the tail end has been extremely wet. Cultivation is way behind. In Gore 400 farmers turned out to a meeting on the Government’s freshwater proposals. Our farmer says that’s quite a turnout at this busy time of year. Farmers are upset they’ve put a huge amount of time and effort into understanding and looking after the environment and a picture’s being painted that they’re only just waking up to it. Calving’s over and they’re having to feed out because grass growth is below what it should be. Uncertainty off the farm is the main thing though, including difficulty getting labour. On Friday the sun was trying to peek through the clouds and hopefully things will dry out.

Courtesy of Radio New Zealand Country Life You can listen to Country Life on RNZ at 9pm every Friday and 7am on Saturday or on podcast at rnz.co.nz/countrylife

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61

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

62

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

What a week of weather!

Winter 2019 finally arrived last week, a month into spring, and it had a noted impact on demand for store cattle. Cold temperatures, snow, hailstorms and wind have not been ideal for those still lambing and calving or trying to dock and tail.

Conditions have also not benefited grass growth, which has all but shut up shop for the meantime.

That has flowed through to the store cattle markets where, for most sales, there was a noted easing in prices for good quality cattle, particularly yearlings.

Sales of lesser-bred and off-types are yet to gain any real momentum because they need that grass market to support them.

NORTHLAND Wellsford store cattle • Two-year dairy beef steers varied from $2.90/kg to $3.23/kg • Two-year dairy-beef heifers ranged from $2.85/kg to $2.98/kg • Yearling dairy-beef steers generally made $3.43-$3.44/kg There was a good turn out of buyers at WELLSFORD last Monday, for an approximate yarding of 500 cattle. The sale was a challenge as there was no power in the rostrum due to a fallen tree taking out all the lines. This made the sale tough going all round, though there were still some good results throughout. Yearling bulls traded at $600-$860; while heifers managed around $880 for better types, with medium earning $650-$750. Autumn-born dairy-beef weaner steers returned $585.

Kaikohe cattle • Better 2-year steers sold from $3.05-$3.25/kg • Good 2-year bulls earned $2.65-$2.80/kg • Two-year Angus steers fetched $3.46/kg • Hereford-Friesian yearling steers traded at $3.50-$3.60/kg Just on 450 head of cattle were yarded at KAIKOHE last Wednesday. Current weather patterns meant that buyers were more cautious with their bids, though good cattle continued to sell well with lesser types harder work. Two year traditional and Hereford-Friesian heifers earned $3.00/kg, with lesser types making $2.60-$2.70/kg. Yearling Angus and Angus-cross heifers managed $3.00-$3.10/kg, with off bred usually $2.60-$2.70/kg. Autumn-born weaner Friesian steers, 150kg, traded at $560, with HerefordFriesian heifers, 150kg, matching their returns. Empty Friesian and beef-cross cows traded at $2.00-$2.10/kg.

AUCKLAND Pukekohe cattle • Top steers returned $3.00-$3.06/kg • Top heifers earned $2.95-$3.07/kg • Weaner steers improved to $610-$670 • Weaner heifers managed $480-$530 A large mixed quality yarding was penned at PUKEKOHE last Saturday, with quality cattle solid though lesser types had mixed results. Light yearling white-faced steers returned $3.87/kg, while light yearling heifers traded at a varied $3.10-$3.67/kg. Boner cows sold over a wide range of $1.20-$2.08/kg.

COUNTIES Tuakau sales • Autumn-born Hereford-Friesian steers, 163kg, sold well at $825 • Hereford-Friesian heifers, 466kg, earned $1470 • Prime Hereford-Friesian steers, 588kg, sold to $3.18/kg • Top prime ewes fetched $215 Over 1000 cattle were yarded at TUAKAU last Thursday and the market was steady, Carrfields Livestock agent Karl Chitham reported. Steers at 400-470kg traded at $3.20$3.37/kg. Angus-Friesian, 327kg, made $1050 and 300kg Angus-Friesian earned $995. Hereford-Friesian, 194kg, fetched $835. Most 300-400kg heifers sold in a range of $3.02/kg to $3.21/kg, with autumn-born Hereford-Friesian, 135kg, making $515. Medium-good prime steers sold at $3.06-$3.15/kg last Wednesday. Heifer prices eased by 5c/ kg, with most 480-550kg returning $3.02-$3.08/kg. Wellconditioned Friesian cows sold to $2.20/kg, with 450-

510kg varying from $1.87/kg to $2.14/kg. Prime hoggets averaged $197 on Monday, with the top pen making $238.

Store hoggets ranged from $100 to $139 and prime ewes continued to sell strongly, averaging $130.

WAIKATO Frankton cattle and feeder calf • Two-year Hereford-dairy steers, 428-478kg, held at $3.14-$3.21/ kg • Yearling Angus-cross steers, 293kg, earned $795, $2.71/kg • Most yearling Angus-Friesian steers, 294-333kg, traded at $3.18$3.23/kg • Yearling Friesian bulls, 331-349kg, improved to $3.07-$3.08/kg • Prime Hereford-dairy heifers, 430-541kg, lifted to $3.04-$3.13/kg A mixed quality yarding of 825 cattle was penned at FRANKTON last Wednesday. A highlight in the two-year steers was ten Angus-Friesian, 459kg, which reached $1620, $3.53/kg, while Hereford-Friesian, 366kg, eased to $3.14/kg. Beef-dairy heifers, 356-364kg, were consistent at $3.00-$3.17/kg. Twelve autumn-born one-year steers, 418kg, sold well at $3.23/kg. Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 219-285kg, held at $3.33-$3.50/kg, while Friesiancross, 288kg, returned $2.74/kg. Hereford-Friesian heifers, 233kg, improved to $3.43/kg. Yearling Hereford bulls, 264305kg, fetched $840-$950 for varied $/kg, whilst Friesian bulls, 225-248kg, improved to $3.10-$3.20/kg. Feeder calf throughput lowered to 380 head and a limited number of Friesian bulls improved to $130, while medium held at $80. Hereford-Friesian bulls eased with good types at $150-$190, and medium $110-$140. Heifers were sought after, with good Hereford-Friesian lifting to $150-$180, and medium $90-$130, while small calves held.

BAY OF PLENTY Rangiuru cattle and sheep • Prime Hereford-Friesian steers, 485-560kg, made $3.21/kg • Three-year Hereford bulls, 551kg, made $3.48/kg • Two-year Hereford-Friesian steers, 380-425kg, improved to $3.16/kg • Yearling Angus-Friesian steers, 275-340kg, sold for $2.80/kg • The top prime hoggets made $160, with the only store hoggets $120 There was a very mixed quality of store cattle offered at RANGIURU last Tuesday. Most two-year steers were Hereford-Friesian, with 450-479kg the best-selling at $3.26-$3.28/kg. Two-year heifers were all less than 325kg; Hereford-Friesian, 324kg, sold at $2.96/kg, and dairy-beef types, 300-323kg, earned $2.83-$2.88/kg. Nearly half the store yarding could be found in the yearling pens where most Hereford-Friesian steers sold for $3.71-$3.73/kg.

Fewer prime cattle presented, and most steers made $3.23-$3.26/kg regardless of breed, while heifers, 465466kg, earned $2.97-$3.03/kg. Boner cow volume and quality was well down, with Friesian, 580kg, the heaviest and traded for $2.41/kg.

POVERTY BAY Matawhero cattle fair • 2-year traditional steers, 435-475kg, firmed to $3.60-$3.70/kg • 2-year beef-cross bulls, 445kg, achieved $3.51/kg • Most traditional yearling steers, 205-330kg, ranged from $3.91/ kg to $4.09/kg

• Yearling Simmental-cross heifers, 310-345kg, sold well at $3.36$3.40/kg • Top yearling Hereford bulls, 315-355kg, sold for breeding at $1380-$1500 The first day of October was busy at MATAWHERO, as close to 1500 cattle sold. The market was temperamental as buyers focused on the quality lines, though left lesser bred and off-types alone. Short-term cattle sold well, and 2-year Angus steers, 465kg, managed $3.44/kg, while good condition Friesian bulls, 505kg, sold for $3.09/kg.

Buyers were selective on yearling cattle, though steers were consistent and Charolais, 395-430kg, earned $3.64-$3.65/ kg. Light Angus, 200kg, fetched $4.28/kg, and HerefordFriesian, 305kg, $3.77/kg. The quality Hereford bulls were picked up for breeding, while most other lines of mixed origin were discounted. Heifer results varied, with the market softer than a month ago. Traditional heifers, 225280kg, largely traded at $2.93-2.98/kg, though Angus and Hereford, 215-285kg, reached $3.26-$3.34/kg.

TARANAKI Taranaki cattle • Two-year beef-dairy steers, 340-466kg, eased to $3.01-$3.10/kg • Two-year beef-cross heifers, 313-410kg, traded at $2.99-$3.04/kg on low volume • Yearling Red Devon-cross steers, 237-267kg, sold for $3.12$3.15/kg • Most yearling heifers traded at $635-$700, for varying $/kg • Autumn-born weaner Hereford-Friesian heifers, 120-180kg, held at $440-$530 Winter-like weather reduced interest in buying cattle, and a 380 head yarding of mixed quality at TARANAKI last Wednesday sold to limited interest. One line of hill country 2-year Angus-cross steers, 340kg, managed $3.38/kg, though crossbred lines varied from $2.78/kg to $2.93/kg.

Galloway-cross heifers, 481kg, sold for $1440, $2.99/kg.

Yearling vendors met the market, and there were some highlights, including 288kg Angus-cross at $1020, $3.54/ kg, while heavier Hereford-Jersey made the same per head price to hover around $3.00/kg. Prime volume was very low, and prices reflected quality. Most steers, 550-690kg, traded at $3.01-$3.11/kg. The dairy shed was also in action, with 65 cows offered. The top lot reached $2000, with most meeting expectations at $1300-$2000.

HAWKE’S BAY Stortford Lodge prime sale • Top male hoggets held at $213-$226 • Very heavy mixed-sex hoggets were steady at $182.50-$194.50 • Top ewe hoggets improved to $200-$209.50 • Very heavy ewes lifted to $197-$220 • Heavy ewes improved to $180-$186 There was almost a 50/50 split of hoggets and ewes in the sheep section at STORTFORD LODGE last Monday.

Male hoggets traded on a steady market with very heavy types earning $173-$206. Mixed-sex improved for most, with top hoggets up to $192, while heavy lifted to $181$183 and good $134-$148. Ewes were in demand, with a good bench of buyers very competitive on the 1200 penned. Heavy ewes lifted to $180-$186, as did good types up to $145-$160. Light ewes eased to $75. Just 29 cattle were yarded, of which the lion’s share were boner Friesian cows, 401-526kg. These had varied returns at $2.05/kg to $2.26/kg.

Stortford Lodge store cattle and sheep • Heavy male and cryptorchid hoggets made $175-$182 • Heavy ewe hoggets eased to $160-$177 • Good ewe hoggets came back to $145-$157 • Yearling traditional steers, 250-330kg, eased to $3.59/kg • Most yearling heifers sold for $475-$685, for varying $/kg Store hogget tallies dropped at STORTFORD LODGE last Wednesday, and all were sold as mouthed. Quality was good and that helped the market, though bidding was cautious. A line of very heavy and woolly ewe hoggets sold to farm on at $204, as did wet-dry Romdale 2-tooths at $167.

Other wet-dries made $127.50-$178, while a small yarding of ewes with lambs-at-foot varied from $70 to $126 all counted. The cattle sale reverted to mainly beef-dairy in the 430 head yarding. All classes sold on a softer market and 2-year Hereford-dairy steers, 573kg, reached $3.12/kg, while 356-442kg beef-cross traded from $3.14/kg to $3.29/ kg.

A line of yearling Chatham Island’s Angus and; AngusHereford steers made $900, $3.61/kg, though followed closely by Hereford-Friesian of similar weight which sold well at $3.57/kg.

MANAWATU Feilding prime cattle and sheep; feeder calves • Boner in-calf Friesian cows, 485kg, made $2.55/kg

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019

Rongotea sale • Two-year Devon-cross steers, 495kg, made $3.03/kg • Two-year Friesian bulls, 532kg, earned $3.07/kg • Two-year Hereford-Friesian heifers, 295-350kg, returned $2.94$2.98/kg • Yearling Angus-cross steers, 245kg, earned $2.94/kg • Friesian boner cows, 409-533kg, varied from $1.38-$1.88/kg Cattle pens were almost at full capacity last Monday at RONGOTEA, New Zealand Farmers Livestock agent Darryl Harwood reported. Two-year Angus-cross steers, 410-483kg, ranged from $2.66-$2.92/kg. Traditional-cross yearling heifers, 140-300kg, sold over a range of $2.52$3.50/kg. Autumn-born weaners traded at $400-$590 for most. Hereford-Friesian bull calves made $80-$195 while Red Poll bulls managed $135. Friesian-cross heifers returned $74-$190 and Belgian Blue-cross fetched $140.

CANTERBURY Canterbury Park cattle and sheep • Very heavy prime hoggets made $204-$255 • Very heavy prime ewes strengthened to $202-$255 • Prime Hereford-Friesian steers, 470-705kg, made $3.11/kg • Prime Hereford-Friesian heifers, 470-550kg, improved to $2.87/ kg Record prices for prime hoggets were hit at Canterbury Park at the previous sale but could not be beaten last Tuesday. Quality was wider spread, with 60% medium to good types at $180-$199. Few store hoggets were penned, with a third mixed-sex Merino that made $123-$156. Heavy traditional types fetched $120-$159. Quality was mixed in the store cattle pens, especially in two-year lines as none surpassed $3.00/kg; the best-selling were HerefordFriesian steers, 353-405kg, $2.84-$2.91/kg. Yearlings were better quality and traditional steers, 250-385kg, traded for $3.27/kg.

There was better quality available in the prime section where a pair of Charolais steers, 603kg, made $3.50/kg, with other Charolais at $3.33-$3.36/kg. Most beef-cross sold in the range of $3.10-$3.20/kg, while lesser lines were generally still over the $3.00/kg mark.

FLUFFY: This line of 211 very heavy and very woolly Romney ewe hoggets made $204.

• Boner Friesian heifers, 437kg, fetched $2.41/kg • 2500 male hoggets graded as very-heavy and traded for $200$253 Hogget supply increased to over 7000 head at Feilding last Monday. Ewe hoggets turned up in substantial numbers, contributing half the tally, and very heavy traded for $209-$216 with a second cut at $200-$208. Mixed-sex volume fell, and very-heavy lines earned $200-$234 and heavy $175-$196. Throughput in the cattle yards dropped to 30 head and were all boner cattle. The best of the Friesian cows, 525-600kg, sold for $2.31-$2.34/kg. A large yarding of beef-cross calves was sold at the Manfeild Park, though prices eased for small and medium pens. Good Hereford-Friesian bulls made $185-$250, with medium $80-$120.

Feilding store • Two-year beef-cross bulls, 525-555kg, were $3.42-$3.43/kg • Two-year Hereford-Friesian heifers, 440-530kg, made $2.96$3.02/kg • Traditional yearling heifers, 250-315kg, lifted to $3.35-$3.40/kg • Good ewes with LAF held at $125-$135 all counted • Average store hogget fell to $132 A slightly smaller store cattle sale went well, even with the more mixed quality and lower bidder turnout. Wellpresented Hereford-Friesian 2-year steers were strong, usually $3.16-$3.27/kg, but occasionally as high as $3.38/ kg, followed by some 570-580kg Friesian bulls at $3.24$3.30/kg.

Yearling steers were a bit up-and-down with 230-270kg traditional were strong enough at $4.19-$4.39/kg and the better Hereford-Friesian types at $3.40-$3.50/kg. All 230265kg Friesian bulls made $3.30-$3.40/kg. Beef-Friesian heifers above 230kg were almost always $3.20-$3.30/kg.

Ewes with LAF largely performed well, particularly the better lines, though even medium types with blackface lambs were $114-$116.50 all counted. A little under a thousand store hoggets yarded were a mixed bunch, as is normal this late in the season, and largely sold to a flatter market.

Two small lines at prime weights made $197-$198, but mid-range types of all sexes were more like $139-$155.

Anything longer-term that wasn’t a tail-ender was $119$125.

Coalgate store and prime cattle; all sheep • Two-year Angus-Friesian heifers, 345-400kg, earned $2.71/kg • Yearling Murray Grey steers, 245-310kg, made $2.78/kg • Prime Hereford-Friesian steers made $3.06/kg to $3.28/kg • Boner Friesian cows, 500-735kg, fetched $2.06/kg • Very heavy ewes were $200-$205, with heavy $194-$195 Volume in the store cattle pens improved at COALGATE last Thursday. Two-year steers were mostly Angus-Friesian, 331-458kg, that made $2.90-$2.99/kg. 400kg Murray Grey-cross appeared in both the two-year steer and heifer pens and traded for $2.70-$2.78/kg, with yearling Hereford-Friesian heifers and steers, 252kg, $3.00-$3.06/ kg. Half the prime yarding was steers, where a pen of ten Shorthorn, 669kg, sold for $3.20/kg. Dairy-based lines, 464525kg, were $2.84-$2.90/kg. The quality of prime hoggets remained excellent.

The top end was $220-$224, and other very-heavy traded for $210-$219, while heavy made $190-$199. Store hoggets were of mixed quality and consequently results varied. The best-selling made $150-$169, with heavy types $120-$142, but half the yarding was less desirable types that made $70-$115. Ewes with lambs-at-foot sold from $105 to $132 all counted.

SOUTH-CANTERBURY Temuka prime and boner cattle; all sheep • Prime Hereford-Friesian steers, 485-600kg, made $3.06/kg • Prime Angus steers, 495-508kg, fetched $3.18-$3.20/kg • Friesian boner cows, 565-665kg, made $2.11/kg • Friesian boner cows, 460-480kg, improved 13c/kg to $1.96/kg • Stone Henge halfbred ewe hoggets made $149, with a second cut $132 An increased yarding of 334 cattle was dominated by boners at TEMUKA last Monday. These flowed freely with 450-525kg Friesian heifers at $2.68-$2.78/kg, and FriesianJersey, 503-505kg, sold to $2.77-$2.84/kg. The store sheep pens featured a good yarding of hoggets with the tally rising above 2500. The market strengthened, and finer wool hoggets contributed half the tally, with most in the range $139-$151. Other hoggets were also sought after, with most $120-$160. Half of the prime hogget tally made $200-$240, with the next cut $180-$189. Prime ewes sold well, with the top end lifting further to $230-$280.

Temuka store cattle sale • Two-year Angus steers, 519kg, made $3.20/kg • Two-year Hereford-Friesian steers, 400-465kg, earned $2.97/kg • Two-year Friesian bulls, 230-400kg, traded for $2.47/kg • Yearling Friesian bulls, 265-285kg, fetched $2.60/kg Like many centres around the country the TEMUKA store sale last Thursday was affected by the cold weather softening demand for lesser cattle. The average weight of

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two-year dairy-beef steers improved to 445kg from 390kg, with the per-kilogram rate rising 9c/kg to $2.77/kg. Heavier Angus-Friesian, 467-477kg, made $2.67-$2.70/kg, with Friesian, 472-488kg, at $2.39-$2.48/kg. Most 2-year heifers were Angus, 428-466kg, that earned $3.01-$3.07/kg, though other traditional and exotic lines were discounted to $2.33$2.38/kg.

A huge entry and lower quality of yearling cattle made work hard for auctioneers. Most steers were HerefordFriesian, where better lines made up to $3.03/kg, with midrange mostly $2.59-$2.64/kg. 282kg Charolais-cross heifers made $3.11/kg, with some 261-372kg at $2.90-$2.99/kg.

The top Hereford-Friesian heifers, 245-276kg, made $2.93$3.00/kg, with good $2.70-$2.80/kg.

OTAGO Balclutha sheep • Heavy prime hoggets earned $180-$200 • Heavy prime ewes lifted to $160-$180 Solid demand continued for prime hoggets at BALCLUTHA last Thursday with light to mediums earning $140-$170. Medium prime ewes improved for the better end returning $130-$150 with light types easing to $80$100. A handful of woolly store hoggets traded at $80.

SOUTHLAND Lorneville sheep and cattle • Top prime lambs softened to $166-$190 • Ewes with lambs-at-foot held at $100 all-counted • Top prime heifers held at $2.70-$2.80/kg • Good cows, 500-600kg, sold well at $1.95-$2.05/kg • Two-year beef steers, 440kg, traded at $2.95/kg Cows once again made up most of the prime cattle yarding at LORNEVILLE last Tuesday, with good competition lifting returns for 450-500kg cows, up to $1.85-$1.95/kg. Medium beef and exotic store heifers, 203-257kg, earned $2.76-$2.98/kg. Prime lambs eased with light to medium types making $124-$140, ewes were also discounted with heavy types back to $150-$176, and light to medium $124-$140. Store lambs also eased $15-$20 on average, with the top end fetching $130 and light to medium $100-$115.

Charlton sheep • Heavy prime hoggets softened to $180-$194 • Top two-tooth ewes eased to $150 • Heavy prime ewes improved to $180-$200 • Heavy store hoggets softened to $140 There was strong demand for store hoggets at CHARLTON last Thursday. Medium types held at $120-$130 and lights lifted for the better end, up to $90-$105. Light to medium prime hoggets held at $148-$175. Medium prime ewes lifted to $150-$175 as did lights at $110-$140. Ewes with lambs-at-foot held at $110.

CATTLE DATA COLLECTOR Frankton Sale Yards – Casual Vacancy Join the frontline team at AgriHQ, NZ’s leading livestock market information provider. We have a casual employment vacancy to join our team of data collectors at Frankton sale yards.

The role: If you have a good knowledge of cattle breeds (particularly dairy beef) and ages, and the ability to ‘condition’ cattle, then keep reading.

You will need to attend Frankton’s Tuesday weaner fairs and be available to provide cover for other Frankton sales when needed.

This role requires you to be able to follow the sale process efficiently and without distraction, inputting data from each pen of cattle into the tablet.

Some knowledge of operating a tablet is preferred, however training and guidance will be provided.

Immediate start.

For more details please contact suz.bremner@globalhq.co.nz or 027 622 9217 LK0098829©

SALE YARD WRAP

Markets

64 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – October 7, 2019 NI SLAUGHTER BULL

NI SLAUGHTER LAMB

SI SLAUGHTER STEER

($/KG)

($/KG)

PRIME HOGGET MEDIAN PRICE AT COALGATE

($/KG)

($/HD)

5.85

8.65

6.00

208

high $2.84-$2.90/kg lights Two-year Hereford-

Dairy markets mark time Hugh Stringleman

P

hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz

RICES on the Global Dairy Trade platform are marking time till the spring peak for milk production and international buyers can get a handle on whole milk powder availability.

The first fortnightly October auction saw a 0.2% rise in the price index, which contained a 0.2% fall in WMP prices.

Cheddar prices rose 3.4%, lactose by 1.8%, buttermilk powder by 6.7% and skim milk powder 2.7% to finish at a healthy US$2674/tonne.

With only a month till the milk peak the dairy market is posed to react to the implications for world trade in dairy commodities, for which NZ supplies the some of the largest tonnages.

To the end of September Fonterra had collected 2% more milk this season than last but warned changeable weather is delaying pasture growth.

The Sudden Stratospheric Warming over Antarctica is generating strong, cold, southerly winds and regular snow on high country.

Peak milk could be delayed and possibly lower than previous years.

ASB senior rural economist Nathan Penny said global dairy prices remain relatively resilient in the wake of the increasingly shambolic geopolitical backdrop and slowing global growth.

“New Zealand spring production will be key in determining the direction for global dairy prices.

“Winter has been relatively kind to farmers with production to date running ahead of this time last season.

“On the other hand, production last spring was very strong so a kind winter may still not be enough for production to match last year’s levels.”

Rabobank dairy analyst Emma Higgins said global dairy market fundamentals continue to remain well balanced with modest growth in milk production along with steady import demand across a number of key markets.

STABLE: ASB senior rural economist Nathan Penny says dairy prices are resilient in the wake of slowing global growth.

New Zealand spring production will be key in determining the direction for global dairy prices.

Nathan Penny ASB Westpac analyst Imre Speizer said Chinese consumer activity has held up well as the government has so far successfully engineered a rebalancing of the economy towards domestic consumption.

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EVEN: Global dairy market fundamentals are well balanced, Rabobank dairy analyst Emma Higgins says.

$3.60-$3.70/kg

Two-year traditional Friesin steers, 355-405kg, steers, 435-475kg, at Matawhero at Canterbury Park

ACROSS THE RAILS SUZ BREMNER

Bidr online platform wins over farmers IN THIS modern age it was only a matter of time before selling livestock online became the norm and it is something that has grown in capacity over the years, stemming from Trademe through to the latest online auction platform, bidr. Bidr was launched by PGG Wrightson at Fieldays in June though is a stand-alone company and stock agencies register to sell stock via the system. It is essentially a virtual sale yard and operates in much the same capacity as the yards. The beauty of bidr is that buying can be done from the comfort of home and access to livestock for sale stretches the length of the country.

PGG Wrightson livestock general manager Peter Moore is also bidr chairman and reflected on a successful four months of trading. “It has been a big investment with a large focus on customer satisfaction. We strongly believe it will be a key part of selling livestock in the future.

We are starting to see it gain more traction now as people get used to the idea and uptake has been at expected levels. Stock agents have to be involved and to date six agencies are signed up”.

Bidr general manager Tania Smith said there are 900 registered users, of which half have agency accounts so they can bid and buy. That is increasing all the time, which is fantastic as it is a concept that is turning 150 years of trading stock on its head as the industry seeks more e-commerce and online transacting platforms, she says. About 60% of the buyers are independent, with the balance agents buying on behalf. To the end of September 4470 cattle were offered, with 3463 sold. The South Island is leading the charge with greater throughput and $1.74 million in sales compared to the North Island at $1.28m. Combined with sheep and deer the total value to date is $3.2m so there is certainly a place for it.

While cattle are the main focus, Smith said the standout sale has been of Red deer in Southland, where 40 hinds were offered. The auction attracted 29 buyers plus 25 viewers and 1000 bids were made on the 40 lots. Prices ranged from $1250 to $6000, with a quarter of the yarding heading to the North Island. www.bidr.co.nz suz.bremner@globalhq.co.nz

Find out more about AgriHQ at agrihq.co.nz

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