Farmers Weekly NZ March 15 2021 by AgriHQ

5 Pastoral farming rights ‘at risk’ Vol 19 No 10, March 15, 2021

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Farmers taking the lead Colin Williscroft colin.williscroft@globalhq.co.nz

CATCHMENT group project near Palmerston North encouraging farmers to take their own onfarm water samples is holding an open day next month. The farmer-led project “Seeing, Understanding, Believing”, is funded by the Our Land and Water Science (OLAW) Challenge and involves farmers in the Nguturoa catchment near Linton, who have been studying stream health, greenhouse gas and farm management issues. Part of the project aims to provide practical methods for farmers to measure and evaluate water quality indicators associated with their own farms, with results used for strategic planning on their own properties as well as catchment group activities. The monitoring is done using NIWA’s Stream Health Monitoring and Assessment Kit (SHMAK). The kits provide a way to assess whether land-use practices are affecting waterways, and also allows stream health to be tracked over time, so farmers can assess whether it is getting better, worse or staying the same. As part of the project, NIWA scientists have been working with landowners to carry out monthly water quality tests for nutrients, sediment and pathogen indicators in streams and waterways running through their properties. One of the project leaders, KapAg managing director Terry Parminter says often industry groups, along with central and

local government organisations, simply tell farmers what to do without providing them with ways to achieve desired outcomes. Parminter says this project is different because it’s focused not only on what the outcomes might be, but also provides farmers with information on how to achieve them. He says if farmers can see for themselves how their farms affect their catchment they are more likely to take steps to change that. The aim is to create opportunities for landowners to share results and opinions about them with others in the group rather than just relying on experts. Parminter advocates a farmer-led approach to farm management planning and that includes environmental management. Niwa scientists, including Amanda Valois, have provided science and technical support to the Nguturoa project to directly measure ecological health, nutrient and sediment status in water that drains critical source areas on the farms involved in the project. The project, which has also attracted funding from the Manawatu River Leaders Accord, began late last year. Although water testing is ongoing, initial results have shown that despite the prevalence of dairying in the catchment nitrates in the water is not a critical factor. Instead it’s phosphorus and sediment that are showing up more, which is something that those who are part of the group would not have known if they hadn’t been doing the testing. One of the best ways to manage the phosphorus is to

MEASURING: Linton sheep and beef farmer Rob Thompson and KapAg managing director Terry Parminter use a clarity tube to measure the turbidity of water from a stream on Thompson’s farm.

If farmers can see for themselves how their farms affect their catchment they are more likely to take steps to change that. Terry Parminter KapAg manage the sediment. The landowners have been talking about riparian planting,

but Valois says whatever is planted they don’t want to lose the grass because it is an effective filter. The water testing kits are not aimed at replacing more formal methods of stream health monitoring, they are instead an additional tool to empower farmers and communities to play their own role. Samples gathered can also be sent for laboratory testing, which enables the information to be included in cross-catchment NIWA data. The SHMAK equipment can be ordered through the NIWA website. Prices begin at $120 for

the starter kit. Standard kits range from $600 to $695 depending on whether water is fairly cloudy or clear, through to SHMAK-plus, which includes everything in the standard kit, as well as kits for E.coli bacteria, dissolved nitrate and phosphate. Parminter says farmers can pool their resources within catchments to share ownership of the kits. The field day is on April 8, from 10.30am to 2.30pm at 267 Millricks Line, Linton. Speakers will include Parminter, representatives from Horizons regional council and AgResearch professor Richard McDowell.

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ROUND THE FARM TABLE Chef and good keen man Al Brown chats to BFEA entrants from around the country and finds they’re committed to sustainable farming – and growing delicious food.

A sustainable orchard growing a classic Kiwi-favourite just out of Matamata is a long way from the northern Netherland’s province of Friesland. But for Dutch couple Frans and Tineke de Jong, it’s been a wonderful home for almost 20 years - and one they’ve turned into a thriving business. Thirteen varieties of feijoas are grown (which the de Jongs had never tried before arriving here!) in the orchard, as well as delicious capsicums and chillies in their state-of-the-art computer-controlled greenhouse. Back in the Netherlands Tineke was a florist while Frans grew up on a dairy farm before a career as a chemist in agricultural analytical testing beckoned. At that time, their son Talbert was studying dairy farming which saw him heading to New Zealand for work experience. A Christmas visit to see him soon sealed the deal. “We were sold in a week,” said Tineke. So in 2003, the family moved here permanently to take over the 5.05ha Southern Belle Orchard. “It had a few nuts and screws loose,” laughs Frans, “but we were determined to create a successful operation using sustainable growing methods.” It’s a goal they’ve not only achieved, but have also have been recognised for as Regional Supreme Winners of the Waikato Ballance Farm Environment Awards in 2015. Six years ago Frans and Tineke brought their son Talbert and partner Emily onto the orchard in a 10-year succession plan. With their own house a stone’s throw from Frans and Tineke’s on the orchard, and two young children for the grandparents to play with, the stage is set for the next generation to continue the story. Al Brown sat down with the family to find out more. Al: Have you always had a focus on sustainable living? Frans: I was 15 when the global oil crisis hit in the ‘70s. I remember thinking even back then that we can’t go on this way. Someone told me once to always try to leave the world a better place. This informs everything we do today.

Talbert: We recycle nutrients as much as possible, slow composting all the clippings with horse manure from the neighbours. This ends up under the trees, which means no weeds, reduced pesticides and it keeps all the moisture in. Regular soil, leaf and nutrient tests make sure everything is in balance. AI: And what about in the greenhouse? Tineke: All water and fertiliser use is optimised. We’ve also increased the use of predatory insects in the greenhouses to keep on top of pests and eliminate crop spraying. Al: Which is all great fodder for the Ballance Farm Environment Awards! Frans: Yes, we were initially nominated by Hills Laboratories and to be honest we thought, “Oh no, more work!” but it was the best thing that ever happened to us. The judges were incredibly knowledgeable and open-minded. Tineke: It was so worthwhile seeing what others were doing and to verify to us the importance of soil management and using nutrients to retain biology in the soil. Al: What part of the BFEA experience has had the biggest impact on your operation? Frans: The awards have been a great showcase for the business, which has allowed us to develop even better business relationships with new and existing customers. Tineke: It’s also given us the confidence to get more involved in the industry with Frans becoming chairman of the New Zealand Feijoa Association and the Waikato Farmers Markets and together with other growers we’ve got together to create a story for export. Al: Is the ability to tell your story and connecting with people still relevant? Talbert: Our orchard is always open to visitors and we also love being able

No.6

Frans & Tineke de Jong, Talbert de Jong and Emily Meese and children. Feijoa, Capsicum and Chilli growers, Southern Belle Orchard, Matamata.

WITH

to employ good local people. Looking after workers was actually one of the reasons we planted a number of our feijoa trees in the Espalier style along wires. It means better fruit that’s easier to manage - and importantly is much more ergonomic for our pickers. Emily: Our produce sells around the country and to the world, but we still make the weekly trip to the Farmers’ Markets in Tauranga and Hamilton. Talking to customers directly and educating them about where their food comes from will always be important. Al: And the plan is to one day relieve Mum and Dad completely. How’s the succession plan going? Emily: We feel pretty blessed that our children will grow up free-range on the orchard. Talbert: We’re keen for Mum and Dad to slow down and spend more time riding their electric bikes but I don’t think that will ever happen! Dad loves a good project. Currently he’s working on self-steering trolleys made from electric wheelchairs with a scissor lift for picking in the greenhouse. He’s a bit of a mad genius! Frans: I think that’s a compliment! But in all seriousness, there’s a bigger purpose to what we are doing. We want our grandchildren to be able to farm without them having to worry about the practices of previous generations.

tart yet y l s u io ic l e d y m y tr sweet feijoa cake!

Al: Awesome. Ok so here’s a juicy one: feijoas – what’s the best way to eat them? Frans: Slice them lengthways into quarters. End of story! Talbert: My mother-in-law’s feijoa crumble. And no I’m not trying to score brownie points. It’s amazing! Al: Ha! Finally, if you could invite anyone to share your produce, who would it be? Frans: Always good friends and family. Our daughter is living in Christchurch so we’d love to have her and her partner and the whole family together, for a long lunch in the orchard. Fresh, healthy, nutritious food. Doesn’t get better than that! Talbert: With plenty of good wine too. It’s pretty handy living close to Mum and Dad. They’ve got a much better wine selection than us. And I know where their key is!

FIND THE RECIPE AT NZFEATRUST.ORG.NZ

The Ballance Farm Environment Awards is a pan-sector programme that promotes best practice, sustainable farming and growing. To join the journey or find out more, visit nzfeatrust.org.nz

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6 Staff retention needs work Attracting new people to the primary sector is going to be crucial to finding the extra 50,000 needed by 2030, but the importance of retaining workers already there should not be underestimated.

10 Supply chain challenges remain

The initial impact of covid-19 on New Zealand’s perishable exports supply chains has lessened, but according to a Lincoln University student’s research, there are still significant challenges ahead.

Markets �� 48-52 GlobalHQ is a farming family owned business that donates 1% of all advertising revenue in Farmers Weekly and Dairy Farmer to farmer health and well-being initiatives. Thank you for your prompt payment.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Pastoral farming rights ‘at risk’ Annette Scott annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz THE Crown Pastoral Land reform Bill clearly aims to put an end to farming in the high country, National MP and spokesperson for conservation Jacqui Dean says. She says high country farmers are facing one of the biggest battles of their lifetime as the reform Bill is proving the best chance of casting aside pastoral farming rights over the environment. Submissions hearings before the Environment Select Committee are underway, with almost 2000 public submissions to wade through. “Nearly all of these submissions opposed it, highlighting why the controversial Bill should be turfed,” Dean said. There is a concern the reform Bill is before the Environment Select Committee, chaired by Greens MP Eugenie Sage. Sage was the Minister in charge of introducing the Bill at its first reading in the previous Parliament. “Being before the Environment Select Committee with a conflict of interest (for Sage) is a concern being expressed by so many, it will hang over this Bill all the way,” Dean said. “I have tried to address this, but declaring expression of interest is up to the chair (herself).” Sage did stand aside at the first submissions’ hearing on Thursday while deputy chair, Dunedinbased Labour list MP Rachel Brooking, took the chair. That was a half-way house for Sage and certainly has not allayed any concern. “I have clearly expressed the concern, asked questions, and quite frankly, I don’t even know if a lot of attention has been paid (to this Bill), they have just rubberstamped it,” she said. High country farmers are outraged over the proposed Bill

that would see an end to tenure review and significantly alter regulations on Crown pastoral land. “It is unnecessary, counterproductive, and potentially unlawful,” Federated Farmers South Island policy manager Kim Reilly said. Speaking to the Environment Select Committee last Thursday, Reilly said good environmental outcomes and continued sustainable and productive high country farming can, and do, work in harmony.

The Bill adds nothing except unnecessary costs, delays, complexity and red tape. Kim Reilly Federated Farmers Under the proposed reform Bill, the existing contractual relationship under the Crown Pastoral Land system based on trust and reciprocity would be replaced by an approach of regulation, policing and enforcement. “This diminishes the future constructiveness and openness of relationships,” she said. “It reduces the certainty of leases and the incentivisation to continue to invest in enhanced environmental outcomes, given no accompanying or reciprocal ability to address changing pastoral needs is provided for. “The Bill adds nothing except unnecessary costs, delays, complexity and red tape. Reilly says there are serious questions around the principles of natural justice, and a significant and unjust erosion of the lessee interests and rights.

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JUST CAUSE: Waitaki MP Jacqui Dean says almost all the 2000 submissions oppose the proposed reform, highlighting why the controversial Bill should be turfed.

Rather than duplicating existing district and regional council consent requirements and restrictions, it would be more sensible to continue to improve

resourcing, funding and capability processes for Land Information NZ. Reilly says with reform of the RMA on the immediate horizon,

it makes sense to wait to see what changes that ushers in. South Island farmer Jim Greenslade says a flaw of the Bill is that it is a one-size-fits-all approach. He says it would be far better to have contractually binding and bespoke farm environment plans (FEPs) that take account of local conditions and particular priorities, while avoiding the need for recurring, complex and costly consent applications. ACT primary industries spokesperson Mark Cameron says the Government is showing extreme arrogance in its stance towards farmers. “The gap between how this Bill will impact farmers and how the Government is portraying it could not be starker,” Cameron said. “Farmers are opposed because the Bill allows for a takeover of high country farms by stealth, using concern for the environment as a pretext.” The Bill gives the Commissioner of Lands excessive control over how they use their land for lawful purposes including business, recreation and tourism and sets up a parallel consenting and compliance system in addition to RMA consenting, Cameron said. “It’s a solution looking for a problem,” he said. Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor is confident the Bill will go through a fair process and based on the wisdom of the submissions, changes will be made where necessary. “I have kept in close contact with representatives of the High Country Accord and ensured their ability to argue their point and submit properly have been met,” O’Connor said. “The Select Committee is an independent process, and now as Minister for Lands I look forward to recommendations coming back with an open mind for changes once the objectives of the Bill have been considered.”

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Staff retention needs more work Attracting new people to the primary sector is going to be crucial to finding the extra 50,000 needed by 2030, but the importance of retaining workers already there should not be underestimated. Colin Williscroft reports. WHEN it comes to retaining staff the New Zealand primary sector is not as good as many other parts of the economy. Research published by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) in 2019 shows that the sector overall is below the average rate achieved by other industries. It found that, based on the years 2016-2018, primary industries staff retention rate after one year was 48% after the first year, 35% after two years and just 29% after three years. That compares to national averages of 56%, 42% and 34% respectively. MPI director for investment skills and performance Cheyne Gillooly says those numbers are the most recent available, but MPI and industry are currently developing a pan-sector dataset and workforce supply and demand forecasting model. He says once it’s completed, which is expected to be by mid2022, the project will deepen available data on the food and fibre sector workforce. He says no specific research has been undertaken into why the sector has a lower retention rate than the national average, although the food and fibre sector employs a large number of temporary workers due to the seasonal nature of work required at peak times for tasks such as harvesting, which is likely to affect retention rates. That’s reflected in the MPI data on specific industries. When broken down further, horticulture has the lowest retention rates of 29%, 18% and 14% over the three years. The best of the bunch is the dairy sector, which runs close if

not parallel to national averages at 55%, 42% and 33%. That’s no surprise to DairyNZ lead adviser – people Jane Muir, who says there is a common misconception about staff retention in the dairy industry. She says the dairy sector has been proactive in wanting to help create great workplaces within the industry.

However, it wants to do more. Muir says the cost to a farming business of having to train new staff after employees leave should not only be thought of in terms of the cost and time needed to get new staff up to speed, it’s also a lost opportunity where a farmer could instead be working on their business. She says there are two types of staff retention: keeping people in the dairy sector and keeping people in individual farming businesses. Both are important and if individual farmers focus on the latter, it will automatically achieve the former. Muir says each employee is unique and farmers need to try and understand what motivates their workers, including what it will take to make them stay and

thrive in their business. She says surveys have shown that employees rate communication and being able to provide feedback is one of the most appreciated qualities in a good boss. The next is providing training and upskilling opportunities, along with being able to show a career path – but that path will vary among individual employees. Some will want to make rapid progress up the ladder, some will be happy with a slower rate, while others will be quite happy staying in the same job as long as they can see some progression, such as being given added responsibilities. A shortage of skilled primary industry workers means that every sector is getting more competitive about attracting those workers. Muir says one of the reasons for that is the growing understanding that the biggest asset a business or overall sector has is the people within it and the happier those people are in their jobs, the more likely it is that they will bring success to both individual farms and the sector as a whole. There is no single answer to keeping new staff, but Muir says getting started can be as simple as having conversations with employees about what they want to achieve and then agreeing on a plan to help them achieve that. That will show employees their boss wants to help them with their career, which will make them feel more valued and an employee who feels appreciated will be more motivated and deliver a better performance. Employees are more likely to leave their job during their first year, which is something for farmers to bear in mind.

CULTURE: DairyNZ lead adviser – people Jane Muir says employees who feel valued and appreciated are more likely to be motivated to deliver a good performance at work.

It makes sense to try and make that first year as good as possible. That might mean reinforcing the idea that early starts are compensated for by having time off later in the day. There will be new employees who will leave because they did not really understand the job they took on. Muir says that’s okay, but it’s for the good of the industry if they leave with having had a positive experience and with a view that dairy farmers care about not only what they do but also about future generations. “There are no negatives in employers putting their best foot forward and being a good boss and providing a good workplace,” she said.

Staff retention rates after 1-3 years • NZ national industry average 56%, 42% and 34% • Primary industries overall 48%, 35% and 29% • Dairy sector 55%, 42% and 33% • Forestry 56%, 38% and 30% • Other primary industries, including poultry and pig farming, 54%, 38% and 29% • Arable 53%, 36% and 27% • Red meat and wool 50%, 35% and 26% • Horticulture 29%, 18% and 14%

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Tight labour market for dairy Gerald Piddock gerald.piddock@globalhq.co.nz A LOWER than expected unemployment rate and ongoing covid-induced border restrictions could see the chronic staffing shortages many farmers have faced over the past 12 months continue in the new season. According to Statistics NZ’s latest data, Waikato has an unemployment rate of 4.8%, Manawatu is 4.5%, Canterbury is 4.3% and Southland is 3.3%. Nationwide, it is 4.9%. Federated Farmers employment spokesperson Chris Lewis says the primary sector was also competing in an increasingly tight labour market. “In rural towns, it’s even tougher. The problem we have got is that all of the good, hardworking Kiwis in the areas where the supply of jobs are, have already got jobs,” Lewis said. He says the industry had also been monitoring the job placements on job sites such as FarmSource, TradeMe and Seek over the past 12 months. In a normal year, there are typically around 300-400 farm jobs advertised weekly. Last year there were 800-1000. “That number has not shifted,” he said. Farm assistant and herd manager jobs are the most soughtafter among these jobs. “If you have good staff onfarm, please do not let them go. Retention is going to be key to getting through the next 12 months,” he said. He says giving employees some praise, rewarding them with more money in the back pocket and improving their living conditions could all help keep them on staff. “Retention of good staff in their business is going to be their cheapest option,” he said. While the buoyant dairy market will help, on-farm costs have jumped this season. DairyNZ and Federated Farmers are undertaking a survey to gain a better understanding of the labour issues facing farmers this coming season

TIGHT MARKET: Retention will be critical over the next year as farmers face another season of possible staffing shortages, Federated Farmers employment spokesman Chris Lewis says.

If you have good staff on-farm, please do not let them go. Retention is going to be key to getting through the next 12 months. Chris Lewis Federated Farmers

Lewis says the research from the survey should also help the industry if it is to make a case to the Government to bring in more workers.

When answering the survey farmers needed to think about issues they may face this winter and whether they have enough quality staff to get through calving. He says the industry wanted quality, competent people for the industry, that would not hurt the industry’s image and had a genuine interest in farming. “You cannot hire just anyone to come and milk cows, because there’s too much at risk,” he said, adding the limited success of DairyNZ’s Go Dairy campaign showed how hard it is to get people attracted to the industry. That campaign was shelved late last year and after initially planning to relaunch it in March, DairyNZ hopes to relaunch it in April or May.

Taratahi’s one to two week-long Agriculture Taster courses has had more success. UCOL acting chief executive Dr Linda Sissons says since the MPIfunded courses had been up and running from July last year, 75% of the 151 students who had enrolled had gone on to employment or further study in the agricultural field. “That 75% stat, I think that’s fabulous,” Sissons said. She says since January of this year, 32 people had signed up for the courses. While that and other schemes, including Federated Farmers’ Get Kiwis on Farms campaign was helping out, Lewis says the reality was that the industry needed thousands of people. Of the 300 people who signed

up for Get Kiwis on Farms over six months last year and obtained employment, 35% came from the MSD, 33% were students and the rest were from other industries. Of them, 35% were female, 80% were aged 40 or younger and had an average hourly rate of $21.60$21.80. Lewis says Government-funded training organisations needed to be “firing on all cylinders”. It was a massive influence on people coming into the industry and needed to do more to attract people to the industry to get people skilled up and work-ready. At the same time, farmers need to work as hard as they can to retain their staff. “The two should be working side by side,” he said.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Final sweep of M bovis farms Annette Scott annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz THE Mycoplasma bovis eradication programme is kicking off a new project to double-check all risk of infection has been found. M bovis programme director Stuart Anderson says it is timely to do this work now as planning moves fully to long-term surveillance. The double-checking project will take a fresh look at some of the formerly infected properties, applying new tracing tools and greater knowledge of the disease. Anderson says, in essence, it is doing a last sweep over the work that has been done in the past few years. “It’s timely to do routine checks now to be sure no infection is around as we do the planning to move fully into long-term surveillance,” Anderson said. “We have enhanced knowledge of the disease, knowing what we know now makes obvious sense to go back through infected properties with these new tools and knowledge and be sure there are no other risks. “We want to be confident we have addressed all traces and risks associated with infected properties, that is best practice in terms of the disease eradication.” The double-checking project will not go back to all 262 infected properties, instead targeting just 132 of the total infected properties recorded in the programme. Over the coming weeks, the programme will look at all the information concerning these 132 previously infected properties. The farms being considered

are based on farm type, the original lab testing data and how infectious they were particularly in terms of how many properties they went on to infect. “We’ll use the knowledge we now have of the disease and advanced software tools we’ve developed,” he said. “These have a greater ability to model spread and risk, and can fill in Nait gaps, so we can better understand any risks that could remain.” The project will be largely a desk-based exercise.

Doing this work will give us confidence that when we ultimately declare freedom from disease, we have considered everything. Stuart Anderson MPI “We expect very few farmers will need to be contacted by the programme for follow up,” he said. “In the unlikely event we find anything of concern, we’ll carry out further testing. “We realise this work may cause some anxiety, but it’s an important and common part of any big disease eradication programme. “Doing this work will give us confidence that when we ultimately declare freedom from disease, we have considered everything and have found as

many of the infected animals out there as we possibly can.” MPI will work with the few farmers that may need follow up to make sure they have the support they need, and the work is progressed swiftly. The project has in part been developed because of poor Nait compliance and animal movement recording. “It will enable us to check gaps in animal movement records, closing potential risks and making our biosecurity system stronger,” he said. “We owe it to the 262 farmers who have sacrificed a lot for the M bovis eradication effort, to ensure we have looked for every risk of infection and addressed it. “This work will help ensure we’ve left no stone unturned, protecting the taxpayer and farmer investment made to date.” In the meantime, one more property has been added this week to the list of infected properties. The new Canterbury grazing property links to the current Canterbury cluster bringing it now to a total of 11. No infected properties outside of Canterbury have been identified since the winter of 2020, which Anderson says is an encouraging sign. “We are continuing Bulk Tank Milk screening and we are interested in the next couple of months with autumn calving,” he said. The beef surveillance programme also continues with both on-farm and meat plant testing. “As yet, we have not found any infections in the beef surveillance

SAFETY MEASURE: M bovis programme director Stuart Anderson says they want to ensure that they’ve addressed all traces and risks associated with infected properties as they work towards disease eradication.

testing, which is giving us a degree of confidence that nothing has been found in the beef herds,” he said. As the current infected properties are progressively revoked towards year end, a plan is being investigated to depopulate the infected Five Star Beef feedlot. “That (feedlot) has to be depopulated and cleared of M bovis, but this is a complex process to manage involving

multiple flow on of inter-related industry aspects and wider business impact,” he said. “The beginning of the process for depopulation has been commissioned and is being investigated (by MPI) to find a way forward, we will then work with the owners, Anzco, to develop the plan. “There is no firm timeframe of when that depopulation will happen, it is unlikely to be this year.”

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10 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Food supply chain challenges remain Colin Williscroft colin.williscroft@globalhq.co.nz THE initial impact of covid-19 on New Zealand’s perishable exports supply chains has lessened, but according to a Lincoln University student’s research, there are still significant challenges ahead. Ben Bowie is writing his masters thesis on the extent of the pandemic’s impact on those supply chains and potential strategies to deal with that disruption. He is still working on the project but some of his preliminary findings include air freight taking off again, while sea freight is still struggling against the tide. Bowie says when international travel ground to a halt last year because of the pandemic, it had a drastic impact on air freight operations, which are commonly used for highly perishable products like cherries, fresh seafood and chilled meat. “With many airlines pulling the pin on flying, and aircraft numbers falling significantly, there were little options for exporters using this mode,” Bowie said. Alternatively, sea freight initially remained stable, with minimal impacts on operations. Vessels continued to call ports around the world and exporters continued to move product. He says what the industry is seeing now is that the situation has reversed for the two methods of freight. Due to the aid of government subsidies and airlines beginning to fly again, air freight has risen from the initial slump. “On the other hand, sea freight is facing several major challenges globally and this is having

significant impacts on perishable exporters in NZ,” he said. He says issues include widespread port congestion domestically and overseas, including Auckland, Tauranga, Sydney, Long Beach and parts of Europe. Equipment shortages are also prevalent, with reefer containers – refrigerated containers used to ship perishable commodities – being held up in port congestion overseas or empty reefers not being loaded on to vessels to be returned to NZ because the vessels are loaded with full containers due to current global demands.

On the other hand, sea freight is facing several major challenges globally and this is having significant impacts on perishable exporters in New Zealand. Ben Bowie Lincoln University “Ultimately, this means that NZ may not have enough reefer containers for their exports down the line,” he said. As part of his research Bowie, who was last year’s recipient of the annual First Light Foods Scholarship, spoke to seven global logistics businesses (GLBs), two shipping lines and one airline. He says GLBs businesses are a crucial link in NZ’s perishable export supply chains as they are generally the last point of contact

between the exporter and the overseas market that the products are destined for. The first step of his research is to determine the extent of covid19’s impact on NZ’s perishable export supply chains. He then aims to identify the resilience plans and adaptations that GLBs have implemented in order to overcome supply chain disruptions during the preparation, response and recovery phases of the pandemic’s cycle. “Finally, I will evaluate the initial effectiveness of these resilience plans and adaptations in the evolving crisis,” he said. Bowie finished his bachelor of commerce in supply chain management and global business in 2017, before completing an honours degree in commerce and management where he wrote a dissertation on processes and issues around air freighting of perishable agribusiness products. “From there I found a real interest in perishable products and how the supply chain functions from the grower or producer, right through to the final customers in overseas markets,” he said. “Obviously, because these products are perishable, it adds another layer of complexity to how these products are transported either via sea or air freight. “To add to that, the impact of covid-19 was another factor these supply chains were having to deal with, so I found an interest in investigating the extent of these impacts and how supply chains have strategised and adapted to overcome such a disruption.” During his studies Bowie developed a significant interest in and passion for the perishable

SHORTAGE: Ben Bowie says because of disruptions NZ may not have enough reefer containers for exports in the future.

exports industry and he knows exactly what he wants to do after he finishes studying. “I would love to gain practical experience with either a primary producing or global logistics business, providing air or sea freight services for NZ’s primary producers,” he said. “This would be a great starting point once I complete my studies.” As part of his First Light scholarship Bowie received $5000 and spent a week at the company’s Hawke’s Bay premises. He says the week was highly rewarding, adding that gaining practical experience while studying is crucial, as it provides a more accurate perspective of reallife scenarios and challenges that exist within industries.

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“During my time there, I was lucky enough to visit two local First Light wagyu beef farms in the Hawke’s Bay region, as well as a meat processing facility,” he said. “I also spent time with every team member to get a feel for each role within the business, from the accountants and finance team, right through to the regional farm managers.” Entries for the 2021 First Light Foods Scholarship close on March 31. Applicants must be full-time students who have successfully completed their first year of study towards any degree with a supply chain component.

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Firearm licence processing jam Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz THOUSANDS of hunters may miss out this season because of police delays in processing firearm licence applications. The National Party’s police spokesperson Simeon Brown has revealed 9000 applications for licences are waiting to be processed, of which 3500 are renewals. Some have been waiting a year to be processed and Brown says many licences may not be issued in time for the hunting season. The opening season for duck shooting is May 1 and 2, with game birds licences going on sale this week. Brown is calling on Police Minister Poto Williams to grant a temporary extension to those seeking a renewal of their licences. “The easiest way to help get through the thousands of applications would be for the Minister, using powers under the Arms Act, to provide temporary extensions,” Brown said. “With such a pile up of applications it’s clear the police are struggling to deal with the workload. “The Government needs to be resourcing our police properly so

CRUNCH TIME: New Zealand Police says more staff have been assigned to assist with licence applications and priority will be given to people who need their licence for work, as well as renewals.

the public can receive the level of service they expect.” Brown says when a licence lapses, owners must move their firearms to be stored by a current licence holder or they will be in breach of the law. He says the administrative backlog raises questions whether the police are the appropriate body to administer the licencing of firearms.

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“Is it their role to administer the licencing regime or should a different government body more suited take over this administrative task?” he asked. In an address to Parliament on Wednesday Act list MP Nicole McKee says reports licence applications are taking up to a year to process indicates a process “totally out of control”. She says firearm dealers and

repairers are also struggling to get permits to import parts under the new regulations. NZ Police Superintendent Mike McIlraith, the officer in charge of arms safety and control, says the department is modernising regulation of the Arms Act. “This has meant new systems and forms, new training for our staff and more quality assurance processes, McIlraith said. “This, coupled with the impacts of covid, and a general increase in demand, has led to delays in our licencing processing.” More staff have been assigned to assist with licence applications and priority will be given to people who need their licence for work, as well as renewals. “Duck season commences in the first weekend of May and police are working hard to clear as many renewal applications as possible before this time,” he said. If people do not have a current licence when the season starts, McIlraith says they will still be able to participate if accompanied by and under the immediate supervision of a current licence holder. Police have revealed that under new firearm laws, just 29 of the 1334 active licence holders

With such a pile up of applications it’s clear the police are struggling to deal with the workload. Simeon Brown National Party granted endorsements to possess prohibited firearms, are held by farmers or farm workers. Information supplied under an Official Information Act request says the endorsements are granted to those “who have established that they need them as a dealer, a pest controller, a collector or used them for theatrical purposes”. Changes to the firearm laws in 2019 and 2020 severely curtailed those who can own or use semiautomatic firearms. From June 24, 2023, all firearms will have to be registered. McIlraith also revealed that from 2019 to January 28, 2021, the police arms buy-back scheme collected 40,784 semi-automatic firearms, which has cost taxpayers $72,994,523 million in compensation.

News

12 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Farrowing crate review underway Annette Scott annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz THE pork industry remains concerned over the lack of viable alternatives following a High Court decision in November that left pig farmers facing an uncertain future. The High Court ruled that the regulations and minimum standards regarding the use of mating stalls and farrowing crates were unlawful and invalid. The decision followed a judicial review taken by the New Zealand Animal Law Association (NZALA) and SAFE against the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC). The Court also directed Animal Welfare Minister Meka Whaitiri to consider recommending new regulations that provide a transition period to phase out the use of farrowing crates and mating stalls and to consider making such changes to the relevant minimum standards under the Welfare Code for pigs. The NAWAC pigs subcommittee is considering the regulatory reform process regarding the use of farrowing crates and mating stalls with the pork industry’s animal welfare scientist and adviser Kirsty Chidgey joining them for a workshop in Wellington. NZ Pork chair Eric Roy and chief executive David Baines have raised the industry’s concerns with the Minister and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Director General Ray Smith. The code working group is reviewing the remainder of the code. This group has industry representation with farmers, vets and NZ Pork staff, along with NAWAC and MPI. Baines says NZ Pork will be asking for input from its farmers and supply chain participants for the review of the code over the coming weeks. He says industry is lobbying for several key changes, including an appropriate alternative to the current use of farrowing crates and mating stalls that must

RISK: Statistics show that pre-weaning piglet mortality in outdoorbased farms is almost double that of farms using conventional indoor farrowing systems. Photo: Annette Scott

Piglet crushing is a welfare issue, and this system is the most effective at protecting piglets from being crushed. Jason Palmer Pig farmer retain the benefits of the current systems, while still meeting health and safety obligations. “The net overall welfare of the sow and her piglets assessed on a scientific basis should be the foundation of any proposal,” Baines said. This means research into options in a commercial farm setting in NZ must be carried out before any decision is made around any changes. To assess potential alternatives, NZ Pork will be submitting a major co-funded research proposal under the Sustainable

like me facing an uncertain future almost overnight,” Palmer said. The court recommended new regulations that provide a transition period to phase out the use of farrowing crates and mating stalls. “In other words, the Government may try to ban farrowing crates all together,” he said. “My family and I have been involved in pig farming for more than 30 years and some of the commentary following the High Court decision has at times demonstrated a lack of understanding about why we raise pigs like we do. “It’s important to understand one of the reasons they (farrowing crates) were introduced by the pig industry was to reduce piglet deaths as a result of being crushed by their mothers. “Piglet crushing is a welfare issue, and this system is the most effective at protecting piglets from being crushed.” Palmer says statistics do not lie. “According to a study of NZ pig farms, commissioned for MPI,

pre-weaning piglet mortality in NZ averages 12% on farms using conventional indoor farrowing systems, compared to outdoorbased farms where pre-weaning piglet mortality is more than 20%,” he said. The consequences of outlawing indoor farrowing systems are clear. “Firstly, half the industry will need to reconsider their future, and many will choose to exit pig farming,” he said. “Secondly, a greater number of pigs will die. “And, more imported pork will come into NZ from countries that do not meet NZ animal welfare standards.” NZ Pork is expecting a draft code this month for circulation to farmers and the wider supply chain for feedback. NAWAC will meet to finalise the draft code recommendations for presentation to Minister Whaitiri in April. Public consultation is scheduled for June, with final recommendations going to Cabinet in October.

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Food and Fibre Futures (SFFF) programme. NZ’s Animal Welfare Act does not allow practical and economic considerations to override welfare considerations. “Practicality and viability demonstrated in NZ commercial farming conditions are both critical if farmers are to consider changing,” he said. As part of any regulatory changes the Government must carry out a regulatory impact statement (RIS). This provides a high-level summary of the problem being addressed, the options and their associated costs and benefits, the consultation undertaken and the proposed arrangements for implementation and review. “MPI will seek input from NZ Pork regarding the costs of redevelopment and ongoing operating costs associated with the different options,” he said. Canterbury pig farmer Jason Palmer says the High Court dropped a bombshell. “A judge in Wellington made a decision which left pig farmers

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Dairy to benefit in covid recovery

EXPECTED: It’s predicted the impact of wide vaccination should be felt mid-year in higher economic activity, as we see a return to familiar consumer patterns.

Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz TRADE logistics are leading to a scramble for dairy products in the New Zealand and Australian off-season, US-based Rabobank dairy analyst Ben Laine says. Concerns about container availability are driving Oceania prices higher and in the US the opposite is occurring as higher freight costs are challenging exports. In the quarterly Rabobank report on global dairy supply and demand Laine says supply growth is modest and mostly happening in the US. “Economic growth is expected across much of the world in 2021, which is positive for dairy demand,” Laine said.

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By the middle of this year there should be a return to familiar consumer patterns and on balance that should be positive for dairy markets. Ben Laine RaboResearch “Elevated milk prices in China are setting records but are likely reaching a peak.” The jump of 21% in Oceania whole milk powder (WMP) prices in the latest Global Dairy Trade (GDT) auction has put a lid on the competitiveness of that source of supply. Laine says inventories are relatively balanced on both supply and demand sides and the Northern Hemisphere peak season could coincide with more opening up of foodservice outlets that have remained mostly idle over the past year. “By the middle of this year there should be a return to familiar consumer patterns and on balance that should be positive for dairy markets,” he said. Rabobank forecasts 1.1% increase in milk production in 2021 across the big seven producing world regions. That would be slightly down on the 1.6% increase in 2020 and should help support markets as supply settles into post-vaccine balance. The impact of wide vaccination should be felt mid-year in higher economic activity, although there will be a long tail to some aspects of the recovery. Rabobank has forecast $7.80/kg milksolids payout in NZ this season after seeing the recent 25% increase in dairy commodity prices and in anticipation of dynamics in China supporting further upside to come. NZ analyst Emma Higgins said while China’s import demand is expected to remain elevated over the short-term, there are signs it could slow in the second half of the year. “High Chinese milk prices are driving China’s interest in expanding its domestic milk production, which could reduce import needs in the future,” Higgins said. “The high milk prices favoured imported WMP early in the year, but that demand could see a pause following a recent spike in Oceania prices.”

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14 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Farmers urged to take action Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz NEW Zealand risks missing its Paris climate change target unless farmers take more aggressive action to reduce methane emissions, the Climate Change Commission is warning. The commission’s report to the Government on how to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions suggests reducing stock numbers by 15% and steeper biogenic methane reduction targets of 6.5% below 2018 levels by 2025, 11.4% by 2030 and 15.9% by 2035. Both ideas concern Beef + Lamb NZ (B+LNZ) and DairyNZ, but commission chair Rod Carr says lower stock numbers would be the result of natural land-use change to horticulture and forestry, and farm management measures. He says farmers can also achieve these targets by making greater use of low-emitting livestock genetics and feed, and adopt known farm management systems. The 2019 Zero Carbon Act set methane reduction targets at 10% below 2017 levels by 2030 and 24-47% reduction by 2050, but the commission warns that on the current trajectory, NZ will at best scrape in at the lower end of 2050 target.

“It is our assessment that current policy settings do not put Aotearoa on track to meet these targets,” Carr said. “To do so, Aotearoa must accelerate action on climate change.”

Climate policy is incredibly complex. Yes, science sits at its core – but there are also economic, social and political implications to be considered. Tim Mackle DairyNZ B+LNZ environment policy manager Dylan Muggeridge says the organisation is studying the commission’s draft advice on methane to assess if reductions are achievable. DairyNZ chief executive Tim Mackle describes the commission’s methane targets as ambitious and means the next 15 years are important for adapting farm systems and investing in research.

He is encouraged that the commission recommends a greater government focus on research and broadband extension to support agriculture to reduce its emissions. “Climate policy is incredibly complex. Yes, science sits at its core – but there are also economic, social and political implications to be considered,” Mackle said. The commission advises that in 2018, gross NZ GHG emissions averaged about 45.5 Mt CO2e of long-lived gases a year and 1.34Mt of biogenic methane. The commission wants methane emissions to average to 1.11Mt a year by 2035, saying the target will set NZ up to meet its 2050 commitments and beyond. In a paper responding to the commission’s report, B+LNZ says what is being asked of the red meat sector is disproportionate to other sectors where emissions have increased. “We are also concerned that while the commission has acknowledged the efficiency gains made by our sector over the past three decades, it has failed to duly recognise the significant reductions in absolute greenhouse gas emissions made, a 30% reduction in absolute emissions since 1990,” the report said.

It says the “significant amount” of sequestration from vegetation on sheep and beef farmland is also not being recognised. The commission is confident its emission budgets are achievable without reducing red meat or dairy production. It assumes current efficiency gains in red meat production of about 1% a year will continue for the next 15 years, and contributions from improved farm management practices, land-use change and GHG emission gains from the impact of freshwater policy. The commission warns that using exotic forestry to offset emissions is not a long-term option. Despite that, it forecasts new planting of 25,000ha of exotic forestry a year until 2035 after which rates will decline, but annual planting of 25,000ha a year of native forestry will continue. Welcoming the commission’s view that relying on exotic forestry to sequester GHG is not viable, B+LNZ is concerned at the impact on land-use, with forecasts that by 2050 the area of sheep and beef farming will fall to 7.15m ha, 41% less than 1990. “B+LNZ would like to see concrete policy guidance or proposals for how limits can be

PLAN AHEAD: Climate Change Commission chair Rod Carr says farmers can achieve the Government’s targets by making greater use of lowemitting livestock genetics and feed, and adopt known farm management systems.

placed on forestry offsets,” the report said. B+LNZ welcomes the commission taking a holistic approach to environmental management. “It is refreshing to finally see advice that clearly states that environmental policy in New Zealand should be more joined up across environmental domains, in particular across climate change, freshwater, biodiversity and soils,” it said in its report.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

B+LNZ hopes for carbon recognition Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz A DISPUTE over the volume of carbon sequestered on sheep and beef farms could result in new methodology adopted that more accurately reflects what is happening on farms. Beef + Lamb NZ environment policy manager Dylan Muggeridge says a difference in methodology is responsible for B+LNZ and the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) reaching diverse conclusions. The MfE estimates vegetation and soils on sheep and beef farms removed around 5487 kt CO2equivalent from the atmosphere in 2018, or 33% of that claimed by a B+LNZ-commissioned report by the Auckland University of Technology (AUT). That study calculated that woody vegetation removed between 10,394 and 19,655 kt CO2-e each year, offsetting between 63-118% of the gross agricultural emissions. Muggeridge attributed the

difference to MfE not including shelter belts or riparian planting, but including emissions from forest harvesting, yet not accounting for those areas being replanted. He hoped the two reports will encourage discussion with MfE on adopting methodology that better reflects the reality of carbon sequestration at farm level. “There is a whole lot of stuff sequestering carbon on farms that is not counted internationally, such as shelter belts and riparian planting, and small areas that do not meet the definition of the Emission Trading Scheme (ETS),” Muggeridge said. “Because they are not counted, landowners are not given recognition for the sequestration.” He says agreeing to a methodology that reflects the reality on-farm is a goal for the He Waka Eke Noa Primary Sector Climate Action Partnership. B+LNZ chief executive Sam McIvor welcomed the MfE study, saying regardless of the discrepancy, the studies show

farms sequester significant volumes of carbon. “The MfE’s figure of 33% is also sequestration primarily derived from the 1.4m hectares of native forest on sheep and beef land, which is hugely significant as farmers are currently unable to get most of this recognised in the ETS,” McIvor said. McIvor is standing by the AUT result and says he wants more research into the methodologies used. He also wants research to assess and quantify the area of farm vegetation, farmers to be credited for carbon sequestration on their land and the amount of replanting on farms to be quantified. “B+LNZ will soon be releasing independent research into the amount of planting/replanting that has occurred across New Zealand over the past few years, including wholesale farm conversion into carbon farming,” he said. Buy Theany MfE says it uses 25,000L or 30,000L methodology consistent with NZ’s Greenhouse Inventory Devan TankGas & score a... and

OUTCOME: B+LNZ chief executive Sam McIvor says B+LNZ stands by the AUT result, and says he wants more research into the methodologies used.

our national reporting obligations. “These lower net carbon dioxide removals are mainly due to the inclusion of emissions from forest harvest, scrub clearance and deforestation, and the application of more appropriate sequestration rates for natural forest and scrub/ shrub classes which better reflect vegetation age and management practices,” the MfE report stated. MfE found that the AUT report did not include carbon losses from vegetation and drained organic soils, and underestimated sequestration for natural forests and scrub which reflected vegetation age and management practices.

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Woody vegetation and drained organic soils on sheep and beef farms are estimated to be a net sink, removing 5487 kt CO2-e. The MfE study noted the sector’s net carbon position will be negatively impacted by the imminent harvesting of pre-1990 forests. This is in addition to an average of 1885ha deforested each year between 2013 and 2016 on sheep and beef farms, contributing 1187 tonnes of emissions a year. “This accounts for 24% of NZ’s total deforestation area over this period,” the report said.

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16 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Quad safety gets ACC support Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz THE halo-like shape of roll bars on quad bikes are proving telling symbols for those farmers whose lives have been saved by them, with many more likely to be installed thanks in part to ACC subsidising the cost. The agency is behind a big drive to have more farm quad bikes fitted with the crush protection devices (CPD) on farms that have the most quad bike accidents. The eligible businesses include drystock and dairy farms, and hunting-trapping operations. Despite much intensive work to publicise quad bike risks over the past decade, including making helmets compulsory, the bikes remain one of the main killers on New Zealand farms. A 2019 Kellogg report revealed across all age groups from infant to 70-plus, the four-wheel bikes remain the leading cause of death on farms, with the exclusion of only the 30-39 age group, where utes or trucks were the main killers. Of the 154 deaths on NZ farms between 2011 and 2018, quad bikes accounted for 25% of them, and last year ACC received 822 claims for quad bike injuries, costing $5.7 million. There were seven fatalities last year, the second worst year for workplace quad bike deaths on record since 2006. Only 2015 exceeds that, when nine people were killed on farm quad bikes. This year has also kicked off tragically, with two deaths within one week in the same region – Hawke’s Bay. Side-by-side vehicles are not categorised separately by WorkSafe or ACC, and are included in the “four-wheel” classification. The subsidy initiative has the support of Dairy Holdings, one of the country’s largest dairy farm operators with 59 farms milking 50,000 cows, employing 300 staff. The company had been in the midst of installing CPDs on its

CRUSHED: Dairy Holdings grazing manager Adam Mielnik says a quad bike accident can happen to anyone, and a crush device is a no-brainer to help avoid injury and death.

If you are in that situation, you need to be able to hold your hand on your heart and say you have done everything you could do to look after your staff, and if you can’t do that, you are going to have to live with that for the rest of your life. Adam Mielnik Dairy Holdings quad bike fleet when a worker was killed in an accident in 2019 in the Waimate district. As part of a broader health and

safety drive, Dairy Holdings has been assessing all aspects of the group’s health and safety regime. An analysis of company incident records revealed there were regular minor accidents involving quads on the group’s farms. Grazing manager Adam Mielnik assessed the CPDs available and opted for the Lifeguard CPD, one of several to qualify for ACC’s subsidy. “We could not find any cons. For the price and what they could prevent, it’s just a no-brainer,” Mielnik said. Quad bike training and speed limiters have also been introduced across Dairy Holdings operations, and ongoing evaluation of the vehicles’ operation will be continuing. Mielnik acknowledged he took the death of a workmate hard, given he had already ordered a

CPD for that particular bike when it happened. “A lot of people think it won’t happen to them, but it could, it happened to us,” he said. “If you are in that situation, you need to be able to hold your hand on your heart and say you have done everything you could do to look after your staff, and if you can’t do that, you are going to have to live with that for the rest of your life.” ACC crash data indicates even those operators perceived as being safe can find themselves in trouble. However, a Farmstrong report released last year revealed almost 60% of farmers injured on quad bikes linked their accident to diminished wellbeing, including fatigue, lack of sleep and stress. The CPD devices are

compulsory on all quad bikes sold in Australia and ACC has confirmed to date no farmers have been killed in a quad bike accident here on a bike installed with a CPD. The ACC cashback offer on the CPD devices is $180 on devices that start from $595 plus GST and include the Quadbar, Quadbar Flexi and ATV Lifeguard devices. The offer is available for up to two devices per farm business. The agency has also recently made its first Impact Fund investment of several million into Tauranga-based company Robotics Plus, which has developed a robotic log load scanner. The machine removes the need for drivers to clamber over loads assessing their volume, a high-risk activity that currently has 17,000 active claims for injuries.

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AGRICULTURE

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Fonterra merges Chilean businesses FONTERRA continues to streamline its operations in Chile after merging Soprole and Prolesur into one entity. “Previously, Soprole and Prolesur were both publicly listed companies. As of 1 March 2021, Soprole is the single listed company under which the Prolesur business now sits,” Fonterra chief executive for Africa, Middle East, Europe, North Asia and the Americas Kelvin Wickham said. He says the day-to-day operations and management of the two businesses remain unchanged, but “simplifying the corporate structure of the two entities is part of Fonterra’s previously announced plan to streamline its operations in Chile by better integrating Soprole and Prolesur”. Prolesur is a milk processor in southern Chile that sells most of its production to Soprole. In late 2019, Fonterra announced it now owned 99.9% of Prolesur and the move allowed it to better integrate the two businesses. The remaining shares are held by approximately 600 shareholders. Documents pertaining to the merger referred to a capital increase. However, according to Wickham, the capital increase was part of the merger process. This change in corporate structure has not required new capital from Fonterra. The first consolidated report from the two companies is due in April. In 2019, Soprole reported a 30% drop in annual profit, while Prolesur also reported a loss. Fonterra declined to comment on how the Chilean business is holding up ahead of that consolidated report. But according to Chile’s Ministry of Agriculture annual report, raw milk production for processors was up 6.1% in 2020 to 2.275 billion litres. Soprole’s milk collection lifted 2.3% to 187.3 million litres, but Prolesur’s collection lifted 31.6% to 293.8m litres. Fonterra previously said it has been working

closely with Chilean farmers to regain trust and competitive pricing. The fate of the Chilean investment has yet to be determined, given that Fonterra is now largely focused on NZ milk. Fonterra chief executive Miles Hurrell has previously said Fonterra is feeling “okay” with the business. However, he has also said it is a standalone business and “not part of our NZ milk strategy to the world”. – BusinessDesk

WAIT AND SEE: The fate of the Chilean investment has yet to be determined, given that Fonterra is now largely focused on New Zealand milk.

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Synlait’s profit in doubt SYNLAIT directors have withdrawn their guidance of profitability in the financial year ending July 31, saying that several new factors have emerged that are expected to adversely affect earnings. In December Synlait said net profit in FY21 would be approximately half that of FY20, which was $75m after tax. At the time, it cited downgrades and forecasts from its biggest customer for infant formula, the a2 Milk Company, a 20% share owner in Synlait. This time Synlait says a2 has issued further warnings, infant formula manufacture has dropped significantly, global shipping delays are having an impact and commodity prices are volatile. The board and management see a broad range of outcomes possible for FY21, but the previous guidance is no longer attainable. Synlait shares dropped 10% on the news, to around $3.50. The company’s share price has fallen from above $10 in April 2019 and dropped $1.50 or 33% from its level 12 months ago.

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

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News

18 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Beef sector innovation booming Annette Scott annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz

STABLE: RaboResearch analyst Angus Gidley-Baird says beef returns are expected to remain solid from key export markets over the next quarter with farm gate prices generally holding firm.

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NEW investment and growing sustainability awareness are emerging as the new drivers in beef industry innovation. Rabobank’s latest Beef Quarterly report suggests opportunities for innovation in the global beef sector are growing, driven by new investment and increasing industry awareness of the need to improve environmental and societal outcomes. Maximising the potential of genetics, genomics and breeding, improved nutrition and feed additives, improved monitoring and data analysis, and landscape management are expected to have the largest impact on the beef industry. The agribusiness report reveals new investment, including large components of venture capital, is starting to flow into animal protein supply chains. RaboResearch senior animal proteins analyst Angus GidleyBaird says when the food and agribusiness sector started attracting the interest of venture capital 10 years ago, most investments were made in cropping. There are now signs investor interest is shifting more towards animal protein with the focus on, and opportunities for innovation in larger livestock supply chains increasing. Social and environmental factors are another catalyst for increased innovation within beef supply chains. “Heightened societal concerns surrounding the environment are motivating leading companies across the sector to invest heavily in research that will help produce better environmental outcomes,” Gidley-Baird said. “This sustainability drive not only seeks to identify production improvements, but also creates wider community interest in driving improvements, and thereby in itself generates further investor interest.” The report identifies several innovations expected to have the largest impact on the beef industry. “While many innovations exist across the industry, we have identified several focus areas that we anticipate will yield the most significant results,” he said. “These include maximising the potential of genetics, genomics and breeding, improved nutrition and feed additives, improved monitoring and data analysis and landscape management.” In the global scene trade agreements and recovery from covid-19 shape as key watch factors for beef industry participants over coming months. “Foodservice operations remain restricted in most parts of the world and this is unlikely to change in the first half of 2021,” he said.

This means beef consumption depends on how successfully the industry can market beef for athome consumption, with China and the US leading this trend. “We expect foodservice to start recovering in the second half of 2021 and the reopening of these channels could support increased consumption, depending on price,” he said. Brexit developments and the possible expansion of the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) have the potential to impact global beef trade flows. The EU and the UK reached a trade agreement at the end of 2020, allowing free trade between the two parties from 2021. Gidley-Baird says the UK will introduce custom checks and regulations in the second half of 2021 and uncertainty remains as to how the new UK regulations will impact the trade of beef products from the EU. “The UK also recently requested that it be allowed to join the CPTPP and, given US President Biden’s long-standing support for trade liberalisation, opportunities exist for the US to enter the trade agreement as well,” he said. “The UK’s addition to the agreement would support NZ’s current negotiation with the UK for a trade agreement, while, if the US was to join, it would possibly lead to elimination of beef tariffs into the US, the largest beef market for NZ.” The report shows NZ cattle prices have increased in the new year, after falling through quarter four of 2020. The North Island bull price as of February at $5/kg was equal to its position in 2020 and 1.3% lower than the five-year average. This lift in price is further supported by the significantly reduced volumes of Australian exports following the commencement of their herd rebuilding process. Total NZ beef production for the 2021 season continues to be up on 2020, driven largely by strong volumes in the earlier part of the season. Total beef production was up by 12.8% as of January, however, volumes through January show the pace easing off a little. Export markets continue to perform relatively well and production volumes were up by 6% in quarter-four 2020 on 2019 levels. Per unit export values for the 2020-21 season are down by 9.5%, due in part to a stronger NZ dollar, but still, they remain similar to the values of 2018-19. Beef returns are expected to remain solid from key export markets over the next quarter, with farm gate prices generally holding firm. “Despite the seasonal increase in domestic supplies, there is potential for some upward price pressure, but unforeseen climatic and, or covid-related disruptions still represent a downside risk,” he said.

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News

20 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Ngai Tahu takes stake in apple company NGAI Tahu Holdings has taken a 6% stake in Rockit Global, lifting its combined stake to 15% of the miniature apple company following a successful capital raise. Pioneer Capital remains the largest stakeholder in Rockit Global, holding around 40%. Rockit chair John Loughlin says the investment was completed by Ngai Tahu Holdings in late February, and that all parties are extremely pleased with the outcome. “Ngai Tahu Holdings expressed an interest in Rockit early on in the process, recognising there was alignment with its strategic goals,” Loughlin said. He says there was great strategic value in the relationship. Ngai Tahu Holdings has ambitious plans, and he envisages an exciting future with its support. Ngai Tahu Holdings chief executive Mike Pohio says this is an investment to be celebrated. “This opportunity will benefit both sides by providing Rockit with more capacity for future orchard developments, as well as further diversifying and increasing the growth profile of our portfolio,” Pohio said.

The capital-raising process began in late 2020 with offers to growers and existing investors. Both offers were oversubscribed and foundation investor Punchbowl Investments, along with its PB Rock group of investors, seized the opportunity to build on its investment and cement its position in Rockit Global. “The Punchbowl group is pleased to be taking one of the lead roles in the capital raising,” Punchbowl’s executive chair Rob Craig said. “We have supported Rockit at every turn and we are pleased to see the business taking another step forward. Rockit is an exciting opportunity and is proving to be a very strong player in the global premium apple sector.”

ON THE UP: Ngai Tahu Holdings has increased its stake in Rockit Global to 15%.

Beef Roundtable nominations open Annette Scott annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz THE New Zealand Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (NZRSB) is calling for board nominations ahead of its 2021 conference and annual meeting. Chair Grant Bunting says it is an opportunity for motivated and qualified individuals to get involved with the work of the Roundtable. Timing is ideal with the NZRSB launching its strategy at the annual meeting to be held as part of the conference in Invercargill on March 18. Keynote speakers for the event include Zespri International executive officer for sustainability Rachel Depree, who will cover the work the kiwifruit marketer is doing in the sustainability space. “We’re also excited for the introduction to the Sustainable Agriculture Finance Initiative by Blake Holgate from Rabobank, as well as hearing the latest news from Ruaraidh

OPTIONS: NZRSB chair Grant Bunting says hosting their annual meeting the day after B+LNZ’s, gives attendees the opportunity to participate in both. Petre of the Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef,” Bunting said. The speakers will be followed by the annual meeting, which will include the strategy launch and an introduction to the NZRSB framework. A field trip planned for the afternoon of March 17, the day

of the Beef + Lamb NZ annual meeting, will give attendees the opportunity to visit an outstanding Southland sheep and beef property, which has achieved NZ Farm Assurance Plan+ (NZFAP+) accreditation and is closely connected with NZRSB. NZRSB conference attendees wishing to join the field trip must register through www.beefandlambnz.com “We’re hoping that by holding the NZRSB conference and annual meeting the following day (of the B+LNZ meeting) means many who want to attend both events can now conveniently do so,” he said. The NZRSB is also calling for nominations for the chair and director positions for the board.

For more information and to register for the conference, and to lodge board nominations, emailing the nominees contact details and a bio to info@ nzsustainablebeef.co.nz

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Maersk to the rescue Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz SHIPPING line Maersk will reposition 2400 empty containers a week from Auckland to the South Island to assist exporters meet the peak of the season. The new service will start on Saturday using the vessel Sirius Star to relocate containers to the main South Island export ports to improve availability as the export season for perishable goods ramps up. Kotahi chief executive David Ross says the new service will be a boost for exporters. “The new Sirius Star service, operating between NZ and Fiji, sees the introduction of several port calls in NZ,” Ross said. “These NZ port calls help improve the connection of cargo to other larger export ships, and from a number of locations reduces the overall transit time for our export cargo to market. “This new service also provides another option to distribute containers throughout New Zealand, particularly from North to South Island, which is helpful given the level of supply chain disruptions we are currently facing.” The Maersk statement says the new service will accelerate the distribution of exports. “The new service brings additional benefits and enables an improved

RIPPLES: Ships have been bypassing ports to catch up on schedules, while delays in clearing containers has disrupted the returning of empty containers to exporters for refilling.

transit time to key markets in Europe, South East Asia, Middle East and West Central Asia with transit time improvements for NZ exporters of up to 10 days,” the shipping line announced in a statement. Container availability and shipping delays caused by port congestion around the world, is creating delays for exporters with vessels trying to berth at Auckland waiting 10 to 11 days. Ships have been bypassing ports to catch up on schedules, while delays in clearing containers has disrupted the returning of empty containers to exporters for refilling. “In order to continue to enable

trade between Auckland and the world, Maersk has been making adjustments to its New Zealand network to reduce the significant impact on vessel schedules and delays following the congestion at Ports of Auckland,” the statement said. To alleviate that pressure the shipping line has halved the number of calls by its vessels at the Ports of Auckland and is discharging at the Port of Tauranga, with cargo being railed to Auckland Metroport. As part of that, from Saturday Maersk will launch the new Sirius Star service to assist the positioning of empty containers from Auckland to the South Island.

Alliance to automate warehouse systems ALLIANCE Group is investing $16 million in automating the storage and warehouse facilities at its Lorneville plant near Invercargill. The warehouse management system, the latest in a series of major investments being made at Lorneville, replaces a system more than 30 years old with laser-guided vehicles for the storage and retrieval of product. “The warehouse management system will improve the health and safety of our people, enable the co-operative to further unlock advantages of scale and lift the efficiency and competitiveness of the plant,” Alliance chief executive David Surveyor said. At present, about 66 people are needed to work in the warehouse during peak processing, which requires some manual handling of product. With each box weighing

around 22kgs, Surveyor says this poses a risk of injury. “This new system, which will be coupled with the implementation of the next phase of the co-operative’s Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) technology project, will result in greater efficiencies and improved handling of cartons and product,” he said. “There will be reduced use of forklifts and fewer cases of conveyors jamming, which result in downtime in the further processing rooms. “Frozen product boxes also do not stack well in the current system, leading to product damage and potential safety risks.” The changes will not result in any job losses, with staff being redeployed to other areas of the plant. The project will be carried out in two phases over an 18-month period.

RIGHT? THAT’S ALRIGHT! NOT ALL

LA N P G N I E WE LLB ers we are often great

5 ways to wellbeing

d grow ness, but it is easy As farmers an for our busith t important at planning an et e mosrs rg fo d ves. sy to get bu to the business is ou el lbeing asset el w a te time to crea ed to e ne th e w ng t ki ha ta w By minds us d wha t ot hers in re it an pl on acti d work welltoansuppor t us. do to stay an do our team can e Mental ad over to th te he e or m t ou si nd eb fi w To at ion Healt h Found ealt h.org.nz /assets/ lh ta en .m w w w nal-wellbeing ht tps:// l/FINAL-Perso Working-Wel plan-WW.pdf

Planning today can take the stress and worry out of tomorrow. We’ll show you how. Neil Bateup, Rural Support Trust

By planning together our team feels prepared and have something to work towards. For some of our farming sectors this is a busy time of year; harvesting some crops is in full swing but for others this is a quieter time and great for planning for the following season. On our farm we use this time to look back at the previous season to see what worked and what could be learnt from.

As a family and team, we look at planning and assessing the situation moving forward. By planning together our team feels prepared and have something to work towards. There will always be things we cannot control but we try to plan for different scenarios. This helps us make decisions early and stick to them. By assessing feed on hand, operations and strategy we can have some peace of mind with the upcoming season. This is a great time to build and strengthen relationships too. Even if something did not go well last season, we can learn from it and that is the most important factor to take away. It is about looking to the future now.

While there are many things that are unpredictable in the rural sector, taking time to work and plan around things we do know, can reduce the stress we might be feeing on a day to day basis. Take for example – the weather! While we can’t predict the exact weather ahead, looking at what we do know, can help. We know that NIWA’s seasonal rainfall outlook for the next three months predicts long dry spells across the country, with periods of patchy downpours.

Farmers and growers ✔

• Implement your summer management

plan early – don’t delay making key decisions while you wait for rain. It will help give you peace of mind. • Talk to trusted advisors. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or support. • Talk to your neighbours, especially if they are new to your district or have limited experience farming during extended dry periods. They might not have a large support network they can ask for help.

Water supply ✔

• Ensure bores are well maintained

and make contingency plans in case supply fails. • Have a back-up plan if you rely on dams or tank water for livestock. Monitor the water level and book tank refills well in advance.

S D N U SO LI KE A PLAN !

Farmers with livestock ✔

• Knowing what feed demand is likely

to be will provide you with a greater degree of control and certainty. • It is important summer management plans include trigger points to stop milking cows or cull animals to preserve feed for pregnant or capital livestock. • Keep in regular contact with your livestock agent and book space at the meat works well in advance for animals you plan to cull. • Have regular discussions with your grazier to ensure they have a plan to get through summer and have adequate supplementary feed on hand.

Apiculture ✔

• During dry conditions it is vital bees are provided with adequate

access to water so they can remain hydrated. Putting a water source near your hives is highly recommended. • Periods of severe dry weather can also increase the stress of varroa on the hive, especially if bee numbers drop quickly. Continued monitoring and treatment of varroa is essential.

Not All Right? That’s Alright!

Sometimes no matter how much planning we do, life throws us curveballs we could never have prepared for. Planning ahead about what to do when things turn upside down, is also worthwhile. Take the time now to think about how to reach out for help, whether that’s amongst your family, friends, community or services like 1737 Need to Talk? Remember that it’s All Right not to be Alright. Speaking up about needing support can feel difficult, but it’s something that you won’t ever regret. Keep this info handy – or check out the Ministry of Health website, for more ideas on where to go for support.

www.health.govt.nz/your-health/services-and-support/health-care-services/mental-health-services 1737 Need to Talk? Is a mental health helpline number that provides access to trained counsellors who can offer support to anyone who needs to talk about mental health or addiction issues. It is free to call or text at any time.

What’s up www.whatsup.co.nz offers counselling to 5 to 18 year olds by freephone 0800 942 8787 (1pm10pm Monday - Friday, 3pm-10pm weekends) or online chat. Mental health information and advice for children, teenagers and families is available on its website.

Youthline www.youthline.co.nz offers support to young people and their families, including online resources about a wide range of issues that affect young people. It can be contacted by calling 0800 376 633, texting 234, email (talk@youthline.co.nz) or online chat.

The Lowdown www.thelowdown.co.nz is a website and helpline for young people to help them recognise and understand depression or anxiety. It also has a 24/7 helpline that can be contacted by calling freephone 0800 111 757 or texting 5626. Alcohol and drug helpline 0800 787 797.

0800 787 254 www.ruralsupport.org.nz

rural people helping rural people

Lifeline offers support to reduce distress and save lives by providing safe, accessible, effective and nonjudgemental services. Call 0800 LIFELINE (0800 54 33 54) or free text HELP (4357)

Outline welcomes calls around sexuality, gender identity and diverse sex characteristics. All calls and callers are confidential and anonymous. Call us on 0800 688 5463 10 am – 9 pm weekdays, 6 pm – 9 pm weekends Domestic violence and advice & support, call Women’s Refuge Crisis line 0800 733 843.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Telcos reject WISPA’s wireless claim Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz THE big telecommunication companies have rejected claims by wireless internet providers that cheap wireless broadband deals will slice off spectrum needed by rural users. Vodafone and Spark have started offering $40 a month wireless broadband to customers who may otherwise be able to use fibre. The move has prompted Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPA) to label the move as “utterly insane”, given the $1.3 billion public investment into the fibre optic network. The Vodafone plan has a 60GB data cap on it. WISPA chair Mike Smith says the move to convert customers off fibre onto the wireless spectrum risks wasting the limited spectrum resource on urban consumers who have the choice of fibre, while rural customers without the choice risk missing out on capacity. Smith accused the telcos of a “race to the bottom” in terms of charging and its implications for the use of the national fibre network, where installed. “It is their spectrum to use, making it hard to stop them. It is a commercial play, we get why they are doing it. But as a country we have invested heavily in fibre infrastructure, and yet they are actively putting users onto wireless, when they have fibre at their door,” Smith said. While the offer presently only extends to urban users, he believed it could stymie uptake of fibre under the second phase of the ultrafast broadband roll-out into smaller provincial towns and villages. “If the telcos are offering that deal via a 5G tower, why would you go to fibre?” Some parts of the country already have limitations upon their existing cellular tower capacity until the next generation of 5G towers are completed.

He says growth in wireless uptake will demand more and more of a finite spectrum allocation, while fibre risks becoming a white elephant in areas with the choice. Chorus, the country’s fibre provider, confirmed fibre uptake continues to grow year-on-year at a rate of 63%, with no sign of demand slowing. A company spokesperson says with growing data demands, fibre continues to offer superior speeds for large amounts of data. But both Vodafone and Spark have rejected claims they may be compromising rural wireless broadband connectivity with the offers.

Data use increased by 56% last year, partly due to more people working from home, that was off the chart after about 30% an increase year-on-year. Nicky Preston Vodafone Vodafone spokesperson Nicky Preston says if anything the company is doubling down on its commitment to rural broadband. Under the latest funding round, the rural connectivity group has built 200 of the proposed 450 5G capable towers, shared between Vodafone, Spark and 2degrees. “And the premise that urban wireless broadband allocation will impact rural is completely wrong. What we use in the city for spectrum is not configured for rural use, there is a geographicbased element to spectrum use,” Preston said. However, Vodafone agreed with WISPA that New Zealand needed more allocation of cellular spectrum for broadband,

particularly following a huge lift in data use over the past 12 months. “Data use increased by 56% last year, partly due to more people working from home, that was off the chart after about 30% an increase year-on-year,” she said. She confirmed Vodafone did have a “stop sell” flag on wireless broadband in some areas, mainly on sites with older towers on them. “We are trying as hard as we can to remedy this, and have added extra spectrum to 230 sites last year,” she said. A Spark spokesperson says the wireless broadband services offered did not impact rural broadband in the vast majority of cases, as they were served by different towers. “In fact, there is currently capacity for around an additional quarter of a million rural addresses to take up Spark wireless broadband, recognising availability differs by location,” they said. Spark also agreed with WISPA that the sooner more 5G radio spectrum was freed up for use by wireless broadband the better for rural areas, which will also help free up 4G capacity. Vodafone claimed the margin to be made on-selling services through fibre was “very thin”, once the company had added its margin onto Chorus’s $45 a month charge. “We have been saying for a long time the high cost of fibre presents a massive challenge for internet providers like Vodafone in being able to drop fibre broadband prices,” Preston said. Meanwhile, a Chorus spokesperson says from January 2022 its prices would be subject to a revenue cap, set by the Commerce Commission, and its “100” plan would remain capped at today’s prices. TUANZ chief executive Craig Young agreed there needed to be some flexibility around fibre pricing, the rate which was set almost

Tech conference puts ag in spotlight Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz AFTER a year’s absence due to the covid lockdown last year, the MobileTECH conference is recommencing, with a focus on the agri-tech sector. MobileTECH Ag will be held in Rotorua later this month, providing an opportunity for agri-tech innovators, industry leaders and early adopting farmers or growers to have an insight into trends in the sector. MobileTECH Ag event manager Ken Wilson says organisers have worked closely with their key partner Agritech New Zealand to develop a strong two-day programme that includes

addresses from Microsoft New Zealand national tech officer Russell Craig, NZTech chief executive Graeme Muller and Rezare Systems managing director for NZ and Australia Andrew Cooke. The conference’s focus is on digital and automation technologies that will increase productivity of local operations and grow the sector’s international capability. Taking some lessons learnt from last year’s remote-hosted event, this year’s MobileTECH Ag will also be live streamed, increasing access for growers and farmers keen to have an insight to developing technology. A key message for delegates

in past years has been learning to better understand and use operational data generated from farming and growing activities for better decisionmaking, with artificial intelligence, machine learning and robotics all highlighting the potential in this area. Wilson says the sector has been buoyed further by good government support and the underpinning of Agritech NZ and Callaghan Innovation. The launch of NZ’s agri-tech Industry Transformation Plan (ITP) has also provided a pathway for growth.

The conference runs from March 23-24, with details on the website www.mobiletech.events

NOT HAVING IT: Both Vodafone and Spark have rejected claims they may be compromising rural wireless broadband connectivity with the offers.

a decade ago when internet use costs were higher. “What we are waiting for is the Commerce Commission, which is right in the middle of determining the next tranche of fibre pricing

going forward,” Young said. “We have said to the commission that they have to look at what residents can pay, and we would like to see some movement there.”

Under the pump? When life gets busy remember to eat well, get quality sleep and keep active. Sam Whitelock Farmstrong Ambassador

For tips and ideas, visit farmstrong.co.nz

News

24 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

T&G apple sales drive up profits Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz

BRIGHT FUTURE: Envy apples sold very well in 2020 and were sold out before Northern Hemisphere competition hit the market.

APPLES were rosy for T&G Global in 2020 when operating profit for that company division rose by 56% to $52 million and revenue was up 24% to $875m. Envy variety sold very well and Jazz demand was strong in the UK where consumers bunkered down

PROTECTING THE FUTURE OF YOUR HERD.

because of covid-19 and sought fruit with longer shelf lives. Jazz sales rose 20% in the UK and again won the award for tastiest apple variety in the national fruit show. T&G company revenue in 2020 was $1.4 billion, up from $1.2b the year before. Its operating profit doubled to $32.4m and net profit after tax was $16.6m, up from $6.6m. Regional revenue came 40% from Europe, 25% from Asia, 23% in New Zealand, 7% from Australia and the Pacific Islands, and 6% from the Americas. Chief executive Gareth Edgecombe said the year had been full of extraordinary challenges arising from the covid-19 pandemic, including lockdowns and operational changes, the closure of some international wholesale markets and shipping disruptions. “Despite this, our team showed a huge amount of resilience and adaptability, uniting under difficult and uncertain circumstances and the result is testament to their hard work,” Edgecombe said. Local wholesaling and tomato and citrus growing were combined under the T&G Fresh brand after acquisition of Freshmax in April. The division had revenue of $358m and an operating profit of $18.4m. International trading had revenue from external customers of $179m and made an operating profit of $2.3m. Edgecombe says the Nayland Road post-harvest facility in Nelson had been sold for $50m and leased back. “As a business we’ve sharpened our global strategy and we are clear on where we need to focus,” he said. Those areas are growing great brands, winning in key global markets and leading Aotearoa’s fresh produce future.” T&G Global is 74% owned by the Germanybased BayWa AG company and 20% by Wo Yang fruit distributor in China.

NZK takes a hit in covid markets

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By preventing mastitis with Teatseal, you’ll be one step closer to making dry off pay off. Contact your vet or learn more at teatseal.co.nz *Zoetis Study No.A131R-NZ-14-251 (A3251). Zoetis New Zealand Limited. Tel: 0800 963 847; www.zoetis.co.nz. TEATSEAL is a registered trade mark of Zoetis. ACVM No. A7294.

NEW Zealand King Salmon (NZK) maintained its sales volume and revenue but took a hit in the net profit for the six months ended December 31. It made a loss of $4.3 million compared with a profit of $20.8m in the previous corresponding period. Covid-19 disruptions impacted both domestic and export markets, and hammered profitability. The company cleared excess inventory with retail price promotions and selective foodservice sales. “These impacted sales margins but did improve cashflow,” chief executive Grant Rosewarne said. After losing foodservice sales volumes in the United States and Europe, these were reestablished with higher costs of air freight. The average price received in the half-year was $23.90/kg, slightly down from the $24.46 in first-half FY2020. Rosewarne is confident that sales demand will exceed supply again later this year. NZK has shifted its balance date to January 31 and will therefore provide the annual report and results towards the end of March. No interim dividend was declared and prospects for a final dividend are not bright.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

NZ Pork slams Govt’s inaction NEW Zealand Pork says the Government is letting Kiwis down as the country faces an increasing flood of imported pork products. NZ Pork (NZP) has long called for clear country of origin labelling (CoOL) on all imported pork, most of which is produced in countries using practices ruled illegal in NZ. Consumer Affairs Minister David Clark is letting down Kiwi consumers by refusing calls for mandatory labelling to clearly identify all imported pork, NZ Pork chief executive David Baines says. The Consumers’ Right to Know (Country of Origin of Food) Act 2018 only requires pork and cured pork to be labelled with its country of origin. All other imported pork which is then further processed in NZ only needs to include the name and address of a NZ supplier on a label. “Minister Clark has refused to meet with us to discuss this important issue and this is a slap in the face for New Zealanders who want to know where their pork comes from,” Baines said. “He has now confirmed the CoOL provisions in the Act,

which will be regulated through a Consumer Information Standard (Origin of Food), will not be changed. “This is despite the Act allowing him to also include other food categories.”

Minister Clark has refused to meet with us to discuss this important issue and this is a slap in the face for New Zealanders. David Baines NZ Pork Baines says it is concerning that legislation aimed at strengthening consumers’ right to know will allow some key categories of imported pork to sit in supermarket chillers with nothing to show that it originated overseas. “This labelling will mislead many into thinking they are purchasing NZ pork when they are purchasing imported pork that has simply been further processed by a NZ manufacturer,” he said. “This is directly opposed

to what research has shown consumers want, which is clear CoOL.” The range of products further treated in NZ can include bacon, ham, pork sausages (whether fresh, cured, smoked or precooked), reformed pork or minced pork, pulled pork, salami, and injected or marinated pork. While cured pork products are covered by the Bill, any other pork which is further processed in any way apart from cured falls outside the current scope of the proposed regulations. NZ Pork claims about 62% of NZ’s pork consumption is imported, with about 85% of this imported pork further processed. Imported pork presented as marinated, infused, moisture enhanced and reformed is a substantial category. It is believed about 10 tonnes of imported pork is sold in such products in NZ each week. “Minister Clark is clearly not taking the views of consumers into account,” he said. “NZ is facing an increasing flood of imported pork products. “Consumers want accurate information about the origin of certain foods so they can make informed purchasing decisions. “They rightly expect clear and

TRANSPARENCY: NZ Pork chief executive David Baines says consumers want accurate information about the origin of their foods so they can make informed purchasing decisions.

unambiguous information about the origin of all processed pork.” Last year, research undertaken by UMR found more than 80% of New Zealanders believe it is misleading if imported pork further processed in NZ is not labelled as imported.

A total 85% of Kiwis agree that imported pork marinated in NZ should be labelled as imported pork, and 84% agree that imported pork sitting on supermarket shelves beside pigs raised in NZ should be clearly labelled as imported pork.

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News

26 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Automation a mixed blessing Burgeoning crop volumes have prompted the horticultural sector to lift pay rates as it competes on a tight labour market. The shortage and the cost increases put automation and robotics under the spotlight to help ease labour pressures. Richard Rennie looks at whether robots will replace humans on orchards sooner than later. LAST week’s announcement the kiwifruit sector would be paying a living wage of $22.10 an hour for packhouse work has the sector hoping higher wages will help fill a yawning labour shortage this year. Filling that gap has only grown more challenging with the exponential growth in kiwifruit volumes over the past five years. The 23,000 workers estimated to be needed by 2027 are needed this year, and the 190 million trays expected to be achieved by then is now likely next season. Further south the apple sector is grappling with similar issues, requiring at least 10,000 pickers and packhouse staff this season, drawing off locals, a national shared pool of 7000 Recognised Seasonal Employment (RSE) staff and any remaining backpackers. Like kiwifruit, pay rates have taken a lift of up to 10%, but as late as February an incentive scheme had only drawn in 54 new people, despite including a $200 payment to help accommodation costs and a $1000 bonus for completing six weeks of work. This is despite the potential to earn $300 a day, compared to the living wage of $177 a day of fulltime employment. NZ Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated chief executive Nikki Johnson says the industry has been called on by the Government for some time to lift pay rates and the hope is this proves to help alleviate labour issues. The apple sector has already acknowledged future growth in plantings could be stymied by a lack of staff for peak harvest. Technology has been touted as part of the answer to dealing

HUMAN TOUCH: James Trevelyan says tuning up staff resources has to come before throwing money at new tech.

with these seasonal labour spikes, and NZ packhouses are already recognised as world leaders in tech adoption. Technology including 3D camera imagery for fruit grading, automated high-speed packers and robotic pallet stackers often feature, but packhouse operators say the short-run nature of seasonal harvests makes getting a return on hi-tech capital items tough. In the meantime, developers of technology are looking for more upfront capital to help the horticultural sector have its “rotary cowshed” step change in productivity. Robotics Plus founder Steve Saunders says his company is running ahead of projections for its automated plant, something he puts down to some covidprompted demand for technology. Robotics Plus specialises in

robotic apple packers and log load scanners, and has invested heavily into autonomous kiwifruit picking machine technology. “But it comes down to when the pain point gets big enough as to when industry starts to invest,” Saunders said. “If kiwifruit growers are getting reasonably good returns, that pain point’s not there yet.” Robotics Plus tech can provide a retro-fitted step up to higher productivity, with equipment that can be fitted into existing packhouse footprints, without major new structural builds needed. But he cautions that growth in kiwifruit and apples is likely to continue if those returns and industry growth goals are there, and the labour supply to deal with that growth is proving very finite. “And programmes to increase automation take time, the

industry needs to start looking ahead five years now. It can’t just keep lobbying every year for more RSE workers alone as a solution,” he said. Saunders also believes more of the “heavy lifting” investment to develop step-change technology needs to be made by the industry sector that benefits from it. One large packhouse operator maintains there is still plenty of room for improvement of the human element, before tech takes over. Trevelyan’s Pack & Cool processes about 10% of the country’s annual kiwifruit crop and 10% of avocados through its Te Puke operation. It is the largest single-site kiwifruit packing operation in New Zealand, spread across 20ha of campus. Managing director James Trevelyan admits with the seasonal headache of procuring labour getting tougher each year, there is a temptation to jump into new technology to help alleviate the issues, particularly within centralised packhouse environments. “But our challenge in this sector is that we pack for a short period of time, so the return on investment for large capex investment has always been a challenge, but yes, if the cost of labour goes up, the equation does start to change,” Trevelyan said. Trevelyan’s have employed an industrial consultant with experience in car manufacture who challenges the company to use “our heads before our money” when it comes to pushing more efficiency into peak seasonal tasks. “He always says we must always

tell him we have no human waste; then and only then (should we) look at automation,” he said. Late last year, the company ran a programme to expose wasted labour energy on both its avocado and kiwifruit lines. “It definitely gave things a good tune-up,” he said. Trevelyan says the exercise has resulted in some significant reallocation of tasks and staffing resources, and changes to how management approach task areas. “We will run it again this year and at the end of the season take all the data and look at what we can do then,” he said. A key focus has been to try and “flat line” packhouse labour operations and move away from the spikes that occur with SunGold and Green kiwifruit harvest weeks apart. One relatively low-tech improvement to achieve this has been the installation of covered environments at the load-in area. While not cheap at $800,000 a piece, the installations enable staff to tuck reserves of fruit away in an environment that will not compromise quality. Staff can then return to that fruit for sorting in the three weeks before Green harvest peaks, after the SunGold harvest period has passed. This outlay compares to an entirely new packhouse with technology fitted with a price ticket of at least $15 million, which only runs at 100% for three weeks of the year. “With the stroke of a pen you can spend a lot and get it wrong. People have, including us, become involved in processes too early,” he said.

Sector called on to help lift tech AN INVESTMENT by ACC through its Impact Investment Fund into Tauranga-based Robotics Plus may provide a model for the horticultural sector technology investment that delivers a threeway win for investors, growers and industry. ACC has invested an undisclosed amount of between $2 million to $15m into Robotics Plus, drawn by that company’s robotic scaling machine (RSM). The machine is used to accurately measure timber volume on logging trucks, without staff having to clamber over the dangerous load. ACC’s head of private markets Martin Goldfinch says the investment was a perfect fit given ACC’s goal to ensure workers stay healthy and safe, while also contributing to a financially sustainable scheme that benefits all New Zealanders. Log handling is a dangerous occupation, with 17,000 active claims costing $75m last year. Robotics Plus owner Steve

Saunders says the investment could provide a good example of how the horticultural sector may invest into technology to deliver that technology sooner. This would ease some of the financially demanding early-stage heavy lifting off innovative startup companies. “The RSM project with ACC is a great example of industry investing to help solve a pain point. It gives us confidence to advance the technology when we know the industry also has skin in the game,” he said. His company has developed an autonomous kiwifruit picking robotic platform to proof-ofconcept stage. This has more recently been adjusted to be an “autonomous platform”, capable of performing several orchard tasks, including picking, pruning and spraying. “To go commercial, compared to the value of the industry, would be a relatively small commitment from the sector,” he said. “With the industry generating

over $200m in SunGold licence fees, the $5m or so required for commercialisation is small, but the benefits would be significant to the entire industry.” A machine capable of coming through and picking the ripest first-cut of fruit could be followed up with a human gang of pickers later, optimising the quality at harvest and slicing the surge of fruit a single wholesale pick generates by 50%. Saunders cautions that if labour supply hits a wall the technology needed can’t be just bought off the shelf. “Even if you look at a big company like Abundant Robotics in the United States, they have had to go through multiple capital raises and eight years to develop a robotic apple picking machine.” Horticulture NZ chief executive Mike Chapman says the Government is in “cuckoo land” if it believes pushing labour costs up will simply prompt a jump to new technology that may not even exist.

TECH-FOCUS: Robotics Plus founders Steve Saunders, left, and Dr Alistair Scarfe in the development lab.

“The tech that is there has already been integrated into many packhouses,” Chapman said. He maintains RSE workers remain the foundation for the seasonal workforce for some time to come. But he also acknowledged if more capital were put in earlier, there could be more automated technology.

“Steve is right, but the money the Government puts into R&D needs to be looked at,” he said. He acknowledges the kiwifruit sector is currently making good returns, which may provide some surplus for tech development. “But most other sectors, especially vegetables, are really struggling; there is not a lot of spare money around,” he said.

AginED Ag ED

FOR E FUTURIA G R R S! U PR EN E

Volume 47 I March 15th, 2021 I email: agined@globalHQ.co.nz I www.farmersweekly.co.nz

STRETCH YOURSELF: 1

Collectively between all of the Bells properties how many hectares do they farm?

3 What are the proportions of stock units carried over all of the farms collectively?

Welcome to the ups and downs of Autumn! We’re at that time of the year where the days are shrinking and the nights are growing. In another week or so we’ll be at the Autumn Equinox, which is when we’re halfway between the longest day of the year (just before Christmas) and the shortest day of the year in late June. After the Equinox the nights become longer than the days, so we end up with increasingly cooler weather.

4 In 2019 the Bells won the Eastern North Island section of the Silver Fern Farms Plate to Pasture Awards, in part due to their environmental stewardship. What are they doing to keep improving their environment?

As you can see at www.RuralWeather.co.nz in the temperature trends, in this case for Ashburton, Canterbury, you can see the wild ride temperatures get in Autumn, Some days are hot, others are kind of cold. Some nights are warm, others are chilly.

5 Initially the Bells cattle herd were Angus but over time they changed to Angus-Hereford cross (at about 70-30% respectively) as they believe they cope better with Hawkes Bay conditions. What do you think makes this combination of breeds better able to thrive on their farms rather than straight Angus?

When you visit RuralWeather for where you live, how many days ahead are over 20 degrees and how many below?

2 The Bells farms all have different typography that dictates the best use for each property. What are the main differences between their farms? Why do these differences dictate their use at different times of the year?

Have a go: 1

Go to www.farmersweekly.co.nz

2 Find and watch the OnFarmStory of Guy Bell “Always trying to do better” and read the article “Farming through the generations”. 3 Where are the Bells based? 4 How many farms do they run?

IN YOUR CLASSROOM

AUTUMN UPS AND DOWNS!

How many nights do you have ahead with overnight lows in the single digits? (ie, below +10C).

Students from Francis Douglas Memorial College took part in a Papa Taiao Earthcare trapping course on site at FDMC at the end of last year. We thought that you would also like to see what they did.

“The two day course involved learning about the different pest animals, traps, baits, lures, the environment and health and safety concerns. The boys also built their own rat trap and set these on the school farm. We also had a local DOC worker come in and talk about career pathways within pest control - it was a full two days!

Autumn’s ups and downs are enhanced by the shifting of air pressure. With more gaps between the big settled highs, we end up with more windy westerlies blowing through - these can be warm, especially in eastern areas. However, a slight dip to the south west and suddenly you can feel that summer is over!

A neat experience where the boys had another great opportunity to learn in a hands-on way and perhaps be inspired to go down the conservation track or even make some pocket money from plucking possums on their local farms.”

Which map here is producing a colder, windier, Autumn sou’wester? A or B?

This graph shows monthly NZ beef exports for this season, last season and the five-year average to all countries.

Have a go:

STRETCH YOURSELF:

1 How does January beef exports compare to January last season and the five-year average?

1 Work out the percentage difference between February this year and a year ago

2 If following historical trends when would we expect export volumes to peak?

2 February exports to China are nearly three times above that of year-ago levels. What happened in February 2020 that significantly affected exports to this destination?

3 Which month could we expect export volumes to be at their lowest?

3 It is also interesting to note that February exports to the US are lower compared to a year ago. Linking in with the above question, why would exports to the US have been higher than typical in February 2020? 4 Australia continues to be in a herd rebuilding phase. How is this benefiting NZ beef exports on an international stage?

Do you have a question about New Zealand’s sheep and beef markets? Send it in to us and we may get one of our analysts to answer it!

Got your own question about how the weather works? Ask Phil! Email phil@ruralweather.co.nz with your question and he could answer it on the Weather Together podcast!

Newsmaker

28 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Taking time to thrive

RURAL LEADERS: Published author, dairy farmer and leadership coach Loshni Manikam and husband Donald Kidd.

Southland dairy farmer Loshni Manikam is on a mission to help farming women get more out of life.

N 2018, a Farmstrong survey of nearly 800 women in farming found 90% felt negatively impacted by fatigue, workload, lack of sleep and stress. A third wanted more time off the farm and a quarter wanted more time to themselves. Hoping to help lighten their load, 2018’s NZ Dairy Woman of the Year Loshni Manikam’s new free ebook 12 Tips to Help You Thrive shares practical advice on how women can take time for their own needs, while juggling multiple responsibilities. Manikam says the study also highlighted another issue. “It’s very hard to get women who are caring and nurturing and prioritising everyone else’s needs above their own – the household, the kids, the farm, the farming team, the stock – to suddenly put

themselves at the top of the list,” she said. “The research definitely showed farming women realise the way they’re living is unsustainable. They know the challenges and also what they need to do to alleviate those things – sleep, exercise, (spend) time off farm – but there’s still a gap between awareness and action. That’s why I produced this book, to support women to take action. “I wanted something easy, practical and real; there’s already a lot of information out there on wellbeing. These are honest stories that resonate with farming women.” And, she’s hit the bullseye. The book’s already been downloaded hundreds of times. “I think it proves we all need inspiration and motivation sometimes to do the things we

know we need to do. If we want things to really change, we need to support these women to take action. We need to find ways to deliver wellbeing messages in ways that women will consume and then use,” she said. Many of the women who appear in the book are well-known in farming circles. Fiona Gower is a past president of Rural Women NZ. She shares how she’s learnt to say no to others to make time for her own needs. “If I have been working in the

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office during the day, I do no more work after dinner and I do something for myself, like reading a book. We need to take time for ourselves, we need to care for the carer,” Gower shared in the book. West Coast sharemilker and entrepreneur Siobhan O’Malley outlines why she hired a cleaner while she was a stay-at-home mum. “The weight that came off my shoulders or my mental load, just knowing someone was going to regularly clean the house, and I could stop reminding myself to do it and feeling bad because I never got there, was huge,” O’Malley said. Manikam says she deliberately chose women who are perceived as leaders in the sector. “The fact that these women have allowed themselves to be vulnerable and human is very powerful and inspiring for other women,” she said. “If Fiona Gower has had to learn how to say ‘no’ because she has too much on her plate, it makes you think ‘maybe I should do the same’.” Manikam also set up her own virtual membership group, The Thrive Tribe, for women who want ongoing support. “One of the challenges of living rurally is that it’s very easy to go into your shell and think you’re the only one who feels the way you do,” she said. “The most important thing I try to do is make women understand they are not alone. Every month we get together on a Zoom call where I share training and we have a closed Facebook group where we can share ideas and encouragement. She says what she’s learnt from setting up the Thriving Farming Women Facebook group is that the support that’s required most is motivation and accountability. “For example, every Wednesday I put up a post called Water Wednesday and ask the women ‘how many glasses of water are you going to drink today?’. Their answers are so varied. Even though water is one of our core needs as human beings, many women still don’t drink enough as part of their self-care because they’re so busy and don’t prioritise their own needs. That’s why the camaraderie and accountability you get from being part of a group is so important,” she said. Manikam, who is a farming

mum herself, has been coaching rural women for many years and worked with organisations such as Rural Women NZ, the Dairy Women’s Network and AgriWomen’s Development Trust. She says she’s discovered that women are much more likely to change once they realise how much impact their own wellbeing has on the people they love. “I say to them ‘when you thrive, everybody around you benefits. And when you’re not in a good place, it’s much easier for angry mum and grumpy wife to come out’. And women will laugh and nod at this. Everyone knows what I’m talking about. If you’re not thriving, who are you being to your partner or your farm team or community? That’s when the room goes silent. It seems to be a wake-up call,” she said. “My message to rural women is very simple. We only get one life. This isn’t a dress rehearsal. You don’t get to come back and do it all again. “So why not give it your best shot? Why not try to lead a life where you are thriving? By doing something for yourself, and taking time for your own needs, you’re going to have a positive impact on everyone around you. Now that the kids are back at school, there’s hopefully a little more space and time for women to start doing more of what they want to do. If you’re stuck for ideas, this book is the place to start.” Farmstrong is an awardwinning rural wellbeing programme that helps farmers and farming families live well to farm well. To find out what works for you and lock it in, check out our farmer-to-farmer videos, stories and tips on www. farmstrong.co.nz

MORE INFORMATION:

To download the free ebook, visit https://thriving-farming-women. mykajabi.com/opt-in-eBook-ThriveGuide To join Loshni’s free private Facebook group for women who want to do more of the things that will help them thrive, visit (1) Thriving Farming Women Group | Facebook And, to find out more about The Thrive Tribe, a paid monthly membership of like-minded women who have come together to support each other to thrive, visit https://thriving-farming-women. mykajabi.com/The-Thrive-Tribe

New thinking

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Turning waste into warmth A Nelson firm is taking the humble scrapings of wood waste residues left over from the forestry harvest wake and turning it into a useful, sustainable means of animal bedding producing a win-win for farmers and foresters. Richard Rennie reports.

OMPOSTING barns for production livestock is not a hugely new concept and has been used in wetter dairy environments, including the Pacific Northwest, for some years. Typically, a barn system will comprise of an 800mm to onemetre deep bark-type material, which becomes self-composting as animal effluent, urine and air mix into a dry bedding material that farmers can get a season’s use out of before scraping it off and applying it to the land to help lift soil organic matter over time. Nelson firm Wholesale Landscapes is also finding increasing interest from Kiwi dairy farmers who are grappling with the complexities of water quality management and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and looking to adjust their farming systems to better manage these. For many the challenge is to try and contain those emissions and losses, but the cost of systems that could capture both, like completely enclosed barns, is significant. They may also detract from the ‘free range, grass-fed’ image that is starting to resonate so well with overseas consumers. Marketing manager Tom Filmer says for some farmers a more

WORK TOGETHER: Wholesale Landscapes marketing manager Tom Filmer says they enjoy being part of a rapidly developing concept.

cost-effective compromise is an open-sided barn system allowing good air circulation, while also providing the compostable surface for cows to sit and lie on post-grazing. Wholesale Landscapes currently has several farmer clients in the upper South Island utilising the company’s bedding shavings and is also involved in trials in Canterbury in its early stages. “Typically, they will work to a base of about 700-800mm deep of wood material and this will get ripped, often on a daily basis to

GROWING: Wholesale Landscapes marketing manager Tom Filmer says the value of forest residue is on an upward trajectory.

keep it aerated, and stop it from matting up and the composting process stalling, turning it smelly and wet,” Filmer said. “It does need to be managed, it is a bacterial process.” At the end of the season the material is dug out and can be spread via a muck spreader onto paddocks due to be cultivated as additional organic matter. Filmer says the company has its own methodology for collecting the trash material left postharvest, but the demand from foresters for the company to come and collect it was growing. “More forestry companies say they want to do better (with forest residue). Everyone knows about what happened at Tolaga Bay, and the risk of it happening again is something many want to avoid,” he said. The value of forest residue is also on an upward trajectory as technology and demand develops for using the material as a coal replacement for industry fuel. Other uses are also developing, including as a biofilter media in wastewater management systems. Work by Waikato University professor Louis Schipper has shown agricultural water quality can be improved through denitrification to treat subsurface drainage water on farms. This can be achieved using denitrifying bioreactors – large trenches dug between farm paddocks as outlets from drains or drainage tile. These get filled with wood chips, in turn colonised by bacteria from surrounding soil, with the water routed through the trenches. As the bacteria consume the carbon in the wood chips they absorb the nitrate in the water, reducing nitrogen levels between 15-90%.

Photos: Tim Cuff

RECYCLED: Forest residue is turned into a bark-type material.

The suitability of compostable systems for New Zealand dairy farms has also been touted by Lincoln University honorary professor of agri-food systems Professor Keith Woodford. He first came across the systems in Oregon, and could see the suitability for NZ’s similar higher rainfall climate. He follows a Waikato family, the Allcocks, who are into their seventh season using the composting barn approach with their Te Awamutu dairy herd. Called a cow “mootel” by the family seeking cow-friendly housing, the compost bedding became an unexpected bonus from the system, something to be added to paddocks once the season has ended. The nitrogen bound within the compost can be released at a rate the paddocks can absorb, rather than the dump received during in-paddock urination. Woodford says the warmer bedding environment for the cows

Everyone knows about what happened at Tolaga Bay, and the risk of it happening again is something many want to avoid. Tom Filmer Wholesale Landscapes means less energy consumption to stay warm, while pastures recover quicker with the cows off the paddock. Filmer says Wholesale Landscapes enjoys being part of a rapidly developing concept where thinking is moving to a more circular approach to resources like wood. “We are working resourcefully and collectively to solve a couple of big problems for two big industries,” he said.

Opinion

30 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

EDITORIAL

Good people are a great investment

AST week the Government announced New Zealand’s vaccination plan and with immunisation rolling out around the world already, market watchers are bearish about the year ahead. Rabobank says dairy prices might peak soon once logistics issues are resolved, but the outlook longer-term is good. It’s picking a $7.80 payout for the season, surely beyond the dreams of many when the pandemic hit. Labour is still hard to attract and retain for dairy farmers, as it is in other sectors, but with these sorts of numbers there’s an opportunity for those seeking workers to present attractive packages. They will have to. The unemployment rate is low and the pool of available talent is small. Job postings to the likes of Farm Source have skyrocketed in the past year as farm owners scramble to fill vacancies. The advice is to look after those already employed and keep them engaged. Improving the package of staff already employed is a far better option than chancing your arm in the labour market, Federated Farmers says. Covid-19 has been an atrocious experience, but it’s also given many industries the opportunity to have a good look at the way they’ve been doing things. It’s been a time of change where people have concluded that there’s a better way to build businesses and create prosperity. The pandemic has also made people more empathetic to both people and the environment. In this new world it’ll take new thinking to build a workforce that can not only sustain a sector but take it further. New Zealand’s food story isn’t just about the product and the environment, it’s about the people. That includes not just the innovators and entrepreneurs who lead change but also the milkers, harvesters and contractors that process that food with care and attention. They’re a good investment too.

Bryan Gibson

LETTERS

It’s not the wildlife that’s causing TB FEDERATED Farmers’ Matt Long (letter March 1) has a curious case of illogic in the matter of testing whether wildlife are transmitting TB. I know of a number of cases with the Animal Health Board (AHB), Ospri’s predecessor, where a farmer was known to have brought infected cattle into an area, outbreaks resulted, the AHB blamed possums and dumped 1080 over the public lands adjoining, and the farmer was not prosecuted. Two instances I’m aware of are Marlborough and Wairoa. In the latter case, a corporate deer farmer transferred infected deer from the King Country. No prosecution resulted. The skin test is known to be inaccurate. I’ve heard error rates quoted as high as 30%. But AHB used it for decades, and Ospri still uses it. I know

of cases where farmers fed up with continuing reactors had cattle tested themselves, using the much more accurate blood test and found “sleeper” animals not picked up by skin test, and thus put an end to reactors. Long uses the name calling line of referring to “conspiracy theory” and “conspiracy”. Of course bureaucrats look after themselves. Using conspiracy is over the top, I prefer to understand it as human nature of self interest. Long may be interested to know that in 2016, in response to a question by NZ First MP Richard Prosser, the then Agriculture Minister Nathan Guy told Parliament of 9830 possums autopsied, not one had TB. Long doesn’t seem to like money being spent on “biopsies of possums,” but surely that is part of the greater

knowledge to avoid misplaced priorities and wasteful spending and ecosystem damage by 1080? The World Health Organisation standard for a country to declare “TBfree” is 0.2% for TB-infected herds and 0.1% for infected cattle. That information obtained by Prosser showed New Zealand rates of TB infection in cattle were slight; 0.0019% average over the past nine years. NZ is, by practical standards, now TB free. Lewis Hore Oamaru

Government is woefully ignorant THE recently released climate change report from the Government-sponsored Climate Change Commission would be laughable if the

implications weren’t so severe and serious. Applauded by Labour and the Greens as achievable, feasible and a great step forward, it outlines how to bankrupt New Zealand environmentally, socially and economically within a decade or two, at most. The fact our government supports it shows not only their utter contempt for hard working New Zealanders, but their lack of reality with the workingclass base who voted them in and their utter ignorance and lack of understanding of basic science, social structure and economics. NZ contributes just 0.2% of all global emissions. This goal to be “carbon neutral” or “zero emissions” is all for 0.2%. That is miniscule and would not be noticed anywhere. Ever. Continued next page

Letterof theWeek EDITOR Bryan Gibson 06 323 1519 bryan.gibson@globalhq.co.nz EDITORIAL Carmelita Mentor-Fredericks 06 323 0769 editorial@globalhq.co.nz Neal Wallace 03 474 9240 neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz Colin Williscroft 027 298 6127 colin.williscroft@globalhq.co.nz Annette Scott 021 908 400 annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz Hugh Stringleman 09 432 8594 hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz Gerald Piddock 027 486 8346 gerald.piddock@globalhq.co.nz Richard Rennie 07 552 6176 richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz Nigel Stirling 021 136 5570 nigel.g.stirling@gmail.com

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Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

What’s next for your farm? Ben Speedy

EW Zealand is recognised globally as a clean, green nation with a “100% pure” brand to boot. This brand has served us, and our commodities, well for many years. In fact, our trusted brand has proved remarkably resilient throughout the covid-19 era, with many exporters experiencing strong commodity demand given NZ’s status as a quality food-producing nation. But how sustainable is this sector’s continued success? Sustainable, while a buzzword, is an increasingly critical one. For farmers and growers, and NZ’s primary industries more broadly, sustainability is a necessity, an asset and way of living to embrace, not something to run from. While it has green connotations, which are becoming even more important, there are other facets of sustainability in business and on the farm to invest thought and resource into, too. Financial sustainability Like any business, farms and orchards should be profitable businesses. If your business is consistently in the red, start asking questions about why that might be – what do you need to do to turn it around? For those who are enjoying profits – and for many farmers and growers it’s been a couple of strong years – how are you going to best use your profits, keeping the future in mind? In a prosperous season it’s imperative to think about the best use of any profits you make. Weigh up the benefits of investing back into your farm, which could be anything from developing parts of the farm to buying new machinery or irrigation, to paying down debt. The key is to strive for the sweet spot between maximising production and minimising cost. Business sustainability We continue to see diversification on NZ farms, with increased collaboration across the agriculture and horticulture Continued from previous page

The Government is woefully ignorant about giving credit to emissions already stored on farms in grass, wool and native plantings. They ignore that animals never produce more carbon than they uptake. They ignore that more damage is done to the environment from synthetics and nylons and plastics, which depend on fossil fuels rather than ‘damage’ from natural animals. They ignore harvested pine trees that are burned in China, thus releasing all their stored carbon dioxide. The push for totally electric demonstrates the total lack of

The

Pulpit

sectors. Some rural customers are divesting sections of land traditionally used for grazing to horticulture, while others are seizing the opportunity to minimise their carbon footprint by planting trees on land that can’t be grazed or planted, for example. Diversifying, while it comes at a cost, can help with enduring business sustainability. And, like any good business owner, food and fibre producers must also have a plan for the future of their business. Whether that’s passing the farm on to the next generation, introducing an equity partner, or selling it to an entirely independent third party. It’s not too early to start thinking about what’s next for your farm. As a nation reliant on quality food production and exports, we need to ensure that as the current cohort of farmers retire or move on, the transitions that follow are successful. If you’re the one passing on the baton, ask yourself if the successor knows how to be successful, do they know what is involved in both the farm and business’ daily requirements? If not, are they willing to put in the effort to learn? If you’re the successor, treat the financial modelling as if you were buying a new business. Would you invest based on the numbers? With interest rates at historic lows, buying into or adding to an existing portfolio

understanding that NZ cannot produce enough electricity through wind, hydro or solar for everything – cars, trucks, trains, houses, businesses and the like – to be 100% electric. We lack the capacity by miles and heavy duty trucks have yet to be invented. This report reeks of feel-good virtue signalling, yet still leaves other countries to do the dirty work. Like has anyone looked at the conditions of cobalt or lithium mines to get the minerals to make the electric vehicle batteries? What about the child slave labour to mine it? More fossil fuels go into that than the battery ever saves in its lifetime.

THINKING AHEAD: ASB general manager for rural banking Ben Speedy says like any good business owner, food and fibre producers must also have a plan for the future of their business.

Environmental sustainability We can’t deny climate change is one of the most critical issues facing our economy and communities. As a lender, ASB is committed to meaningful climate action, working with our customers to build our cumulative climate resilience. New research shows in terms of on-farm dairy emissions NZ is notonly the most efficient in the world, but already at almost half the emissions of other global producers. These findings sit

alongside the rest of our primary industries, with many local food and fibre producers already good custodians of the land and among the most environmentallyadvanced in the world. This is encouraging but we know we mustn’t be complacent or rest on our laurels. Dealing with the impacts of climate change and minimising our environmental footprint are key challenges for NZ as highlighted in the recent Climate Change Commission’s (CCC) first report back to the Government. With regulatory change on the horizon and new standards which may impact freshwater management, emissions standards and resource management, some farmers and growers seeking to meet these new obligations could expect higher compliance costs. We have not restricted our lending to the rural sector. In fact, we’re committed to working closely with the sector to provide support to make sure food and fibre producers are prepared for the level of investment needed going forward to maintain appropriate environmental standards. While it’s true many of the compliance changes are being driven by legislative change, there’s also a changing tide of

The encouragement of pine forestry would see most of NZ farms covered in trees, either native or pine. Natives have a poor success rate of survival and the seldom reported side effect of pine is their total destruction of the soil. The mass unemployment that would result from virtually no farming leaves tens of thousands unemployed as fencers and shearers are out of work, as are hay contractors, rural trucking firms, rural farm suppliers, freezing workers and rural doctors/nurses/ teachers. I’d hazard a guess that more than 50% of the current workforce owes their living and income to farming either directly

or indirectly, and that is being very conservative if you consider all the rural towns who survive because of farmers and their workers shopping weekly. Yet the Government’s plans would see them all out of work and in the cities. Cities which already face one of the largest housing shortages ever seen. Cities which already have high rates of unemployment. The commission assured readers that many people who would lose their jobs would be highly trained to tackle new jobs. As what? Fencers building a fence around Parliament to block out the starving, angry masses? Shearers shearing the people who

within the primary industries can be an attractive option to help grow the business. We’ve also seen examples of customers leasing parts of the farm or the whole farm.

The key is to strive for the sweet spot between maximising production and minimising cost.

There’s no blueprint for how long it should or will take for a farm to transfer hands. Don’t rush it, take your time and do it right.

customer expectations. Through our environmental compliance loans (low interest loans targeted specifically to help fund on-farm environmental improvements) more than 700 customers have already invested more than $120 million back into their farms to plant native trees or seedlings, install more environmentallyfriendly effluent systems and fence off waterways and native bush. Through hard work and ingenuity, NZ’s rural sector proved remarkably resilient through the covid-19 pandemic and fed the world. Heading into the remainder of 2021, we will continue to work alongside our farmers to help ensure they stay on the right side of history through business, financial and environmental sustainability.

Who am I? Ben Speedy is ASB’s general manager for rural banking.

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

are so blind they just follow like sheep? Diesel mechanics doing what? Farmers growing what? What would our GDP consist of? You can’t have that level of unemployment and sustain it through the dole, as the number of unemployed would be greater than the number employed. Social collapse is inevitable as people leave homes of generations seeking whatever they can find in cities, which is very little. Wake up to what the real costs are, because the poorest and middle working class are always hardest hit. Laura Henderson Gisborne

Opinion

32 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Time to revisit the gun laws Alternative View

Alan Emerson

THE police tell us it will take four months to renew a firearms licence and eight months for a first-timer. That is reprehensible and proves that police are the wrong agency to issue firearms licences. It takes but a few weeks to get a passport reissued where a Kiwi could conceivably travel overseas and create mayhem. Maybe Internal Affairs have their act together. Federated Farmers president Andrew Hoggard is “disappointed” in the process. “Firearms are an essential tool on the farm. The rabbits are going crazy,” he said. The Council of Licenced Firearms Owners (COLFO) want a firearm licencing authority separate from police. I agree. Back in the 1990s, the National government introduced a whole of life licence. Both the police and Government claimed that individual guns weren’t the issue, it was the owners that needed to be licenced. Most gun owners got their licence. Then in 1992, as the result of the Aramoana shooting, the National government changed the gun licence from whole of life to 10 years. Many of my

contemporaries kept their guns but didn’t relicense, feeling they’d been betrayed. In 1996 the police claimed the gun licencing system was sound as it was. In 1997 retired judge Sir Thomas Thorpe completed a report into guns and gun licencing. Amongst other initiatives he recommended a separate firearms authority. It was ignored by the then Minister of Police John Luxton with, I’d suggest, tragic consequences. Twenty years later in 2017, the Police Annual Report claimed they didn’t have the necessary resources for gun licencing. The Minister was Paula Bennett having taken over from Judith Collins. That statement was ignored by the Government. It created a disaster waiting to happen. Now we have a new firearms licencing system as a result of the Christchurch Mosque shooting where the shooter should never have been given a gun licence. I found the statement by Minister Andrew Little that “no one can be held accountable” for the shootings beyond belief. The Southern arms officers were under-resourced, while the Southern Police Commander Detective Inspector Paul Basham refurbished his office to the tune of almost $30,000, including $2604 for a chair. So, it wasn’t a matter of resources for gun licencing, it was police priorities. The reaction to that disaster was the hysterical banning of all military-style automatics. Calling them “military style” semi-

TIME-CONSUMING: Commentator Alan Emerson believes that the 35-page gun relicensing application is too long and asks unnecessary questions.

automatics was a PR stunt by the police to ban all semi-automatics. While most of the Cabinet wouldn’t know the difference from a military-style automatic to an ordinary semi-automatic the police strategy worked. It was ably aided by a gullible minister. That the police are still using the term “military-style” is dishonest. So, now we have a new licencing system run by the police, taking months to process. The police then hold the cards as if you have firearms and with no licence they can confiscate your firearms. It’s a rort. The relicensing application is 35 pages long. The questions include: have you ever donated to a white supremacist group; are you a gang

member; and do you consume alcohol or drugs? If someone has, are they going to admit it? You also must provide the contacts of your primary health care provider who is then informed you have a firearms license. If you then consult your GP about any ailment like depression the GP is legally required to report that to police. That will mean depressed people won’t confide in their GP. There is an incredible amount of personal information required, which police aren’t qualified to assess. It is also an invasion of privacy and irrelevant to firearms safety. It has no place on the police computer. Police suggest there are currently 180,000 illegal firearms

in circulation. Surely that is the problem, not law-abiding gun owners. It also seems that since the gun buy back there have been more firearms incidents with illegal firearms. The issue is that you can’t have a credible firearms registering and licencing system using the police. They have neither the trust nor the credibility. They do have a slick PR and lobbying ability. It was suggested back in 1997 and again recently that there needs to be an independent firearms administration authority. Obviously the police have strongly opposed it and ministers have crumbled. If the Government is serious about firearms licencing and firearms registers, they need to create a credible independent authority to do that. The police have proved themselves incompetent in the past and with the current licencing regime. If the Government wants to stop the massive black market in illegal firearms, they need to be strong and develop an authoritative, consultative and credible independent authority. To not do so is to ignore the future wellbeing of ordinary Kiwis. New minister Poto Williams comes into the job with a clean slate. Seeing how she performs on this issue will be fascinating.

Your View Alan Emerson is a semi-retired Wairarapa farmer and businessman: dath.emerson@gmail.com

An unfortunate case of the staggers From the Ridge

Steve Wyn-Harris

LOLITREM B – is that the latest covid-19 vaccine? Well, if it were, I’d be rich because it seems I’ve got heaps of it on hand at the moment. It is in fact the chemical produced by a fungus called Epichloe, which lives in perennial ryegrass. Because it lives inside the plant, it is called an endophyte. And that chemical causes ryegrass staggers in livestock. A major pain and loss of production and profit in my early years of farming, but something I haven’t seen much of for the last decade or two until recently. I had thought one of the reasons for that is that I’ve bred my sheep to be facial eczema tolerant and that tolerance also conferred tolerance to other fungal toxins. Now, I’m not so sure about that. Back in the 1980s, we were

complaining that our new ryegrass pastures weren’t lasting. Even then they were relatively expensive to establish and if they were only lasting a year or two, it was a waste of money. And money was very tight. I had a discussion with a plant breeder and told him that my definition of perennial was a plant that lasted an indefinitely long time. He reckoned it was a plant that lasted more than two years. The nearby Takapau Research Station, ably led by Mike Slay, did some sterling work on why our ryegrasses weren’t persisting and discovered that it was Argentine Stem Weevil (ASW) that was taking them out. They had thought the main problem was grass grub. Then they found that many of the seed lines being sold to us didn’t have the endophyte that protected the ryegrasses from ASW and with that knowledge, I started sowing a locally-bred cultivar called Droughtmaster. It was terrifically persistent and caused unbelievable ryegrass staggers in the late summer and autumn. The next bit of research from the station was that it was the endophyte, or more particularly Lolitrem B, that was causing the staggers, so we were faced

with either having grasses that wouldn’t persist but didn’t give staggers or putting up with the staggers. Then they gave us some decent management advice about not grazing too low into the pastures in the autumn, as this was where the endophyte was concentrated so we learned to keep stock rotating.

Over the years, we take a lot of these excellent science outcomes for granted, so next time you come across a scientist, give them a hug.

Then a couple of years later, the scientists discovered that it was a chemical produced by the endophyte called peramine that conferred protection of the ryegrass to ASW and probably other insects. Why not serve us up an endophyte that had peramine in it but not Lolitrem B, we all thought? And that’s exactly what the clever scientists did, and we were able to use ryegrasses with

the novel endophytes in them which didn’t cause staggers but protected the plants from insect damage. Another lot of clever scientists bred up and released a parasite which preyed on ASW, further helping us out. Over the years, we take a lot of these excellent science outcomes for granted, so next time you come across a scientist, give them a hug. Covid levels allowing. Mind you, last year I ended up with terrible staggers for the first time in a long time on some new grass paddocks with AR37. These swards were recovering really well from the drought due to their insect tolerance compared to the rest of the farm proving their worth. But it turns out that in particular circumstances, AR37 can induce bad staggers and it did. Ironically, I’m using those same paddocks this year as ‘hospital’ paddocks as the old resident pastures full of the original endophyte have brought on staggers again. I’m surprised because after the ravages of the drought and then losing control after the good November rains as I destocked, they look more dominated by rubbish grasses like browntop,

dogstail and the like. But there must be older ryegrass in there than there appears. Because the ewes are in such good order, I’ve been asking them to clean up some of these paddocks in the lead up to tupping, so the poor things have had their faces buried down in the base of the swards. I haven’t lost any yet, but find myself carting the worst affected four at a time in my little motorbike trailer to the novel endophyte paddocks, which also include AR1 strains of endophyte, so that hopefully they get over it before the ram turns up and they get all excited and topple over during mating. It’s no easy matter dragging 65 or 70kg ewes to the trailer, but at least they aren’t hard to catch. The problem being that the Lolitrem B (trem for trembles) is stored in the fat of these good conditioned ewes and takes some time to dissipate. I’ve said it before and will do so again: if farming were easy, everyone would be doing it.

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 – March 15, 2021

Cue the soapbox experts Nicola Dennis nicola.dennis@globalhq.co.nz ONE of the benefits of the pandemic, if I may be so bold, is that it afforded us a few months when nobody told us what to eat. There was a brief period in time, while we all feared for the things we held dearest, when the media didn’t treat dinnertime like an active war zone between the neighbouring aisles of the supermarket. Unfortunately, meat is back on the chopping board as “experts” extract themselves from the woodwork and test out their soapboxes. And they are not shy about predicting the demise of the humble livestock farmer. Apparently meat is on the precipice of a major disruption from plant-based alternatives – a.k.a. fake meat – which are supposedly very close to being “delicious” and cheaper than meat. We farmers are getting the full Video Killed the Radio Star treatment. As we all know, there hasn’t been any radio since MTV’s cocky launch in 1979, debuting with the aforementioned song. There has also been no cycling or equestrian activities since the advent of the motor vehicle and no one has used a ballpoint pen since the typewriter. I said so and I have a doctorate, so therefore you can now report that “experts” question the continued existence of bikes and biros. Let’s take a quick break from the nonsense to perform a little

thought experiment. I want you to think of something that you once used regularly that is now obsolete. Think fax machines, long drops, teletext, the rolodex, slide rulers, punch cards, pennyfarthings or whatever, it doesn’t really matter what it is. Now, dig deep and ask yourself why you don’t use that thing anymore. Was it that a cheaper alternative of the same thing came along? Or was it that a better experience came along? This “expert’’ is picking that it was the latter. There is no price point at which I would want to go back to an analogue camera. Compared to a digital camera, it was a very poor experience. I am not filled with nostalgia for the two trips to the pharmacy to receive a random selection of poorly composed photographs that are already warping under their own weight. The person behind the counter silently judging my life choices 24 frames at a time. Likewise for rewinding the clunky VHS video tape or hearing the shrill chorus of dial-up internet cutting through a phone call. I am struggling to come up with any examples of food that has gone the same way as the floppy disk. There are a few confectionery items where accountants have pulled the pin on production. Perhaps sugar-free chewing gum disrupted sugar-full chewing gum? Maybe? I don’t know. But, I do know that sushi didn’t kill sandwiches. Every year exciting foods break into the Kiwi cafe scene. Pita pits and poke bowls. Vegan-this and gluten-free-that.

PREFERENCE: AgriHQ analyst Nicola Dennis believes people will enjoy meat regardless of the price or taste of plantbased alternatives.

Candied crickets and crumbed tofu. As far as I can tell, this has all been absorbed into the diverse range of eating experience with no casualties.

Eating what we like is one of the few virtues of adulthood and that is something that all of us, whatever we choose to eat, can work a little harder to defend in the midst of ‘experts’ who casually discuss population-wide dietary restrictions.

If left to the same market forces, precision fermented protein, labgrown meat and processed-plant meat-alternatives are likely to do the same. That is, if they can nail down a good eating experience at an acceptable price point, which should be considered the prerequisites for survival rather than step one and step two of “how to kill the meat industry”. Of course, there is a lot of worrying ideology bubbling away

behind the fake meat products and the way they are marketed. But, then again, the Seventh Day Adventists have a near monopoly on the Kiwi breakfast via Sanitarium and Kelloggs, and it doesn’t seem like it helps forward that particular ideology. We’ll take the Weet-bix, but ignore the assertions that eating grains will prevent masturbation. I asked some vegetarians if they were excited about the fake meat breakthroughs on the horizon. It was a fairly muted response. The ones that I politely cornered felt like they were already well catered for by legumes and fungi, and other natural foods that were not pretending to be meat. Many of these are already delicious and as cheap, if not cheaper, than meat. It’s all the same stuff that you would find in a standard omnivorous diet. Portobello mushrooms make a good filling for a burger and, at $16-$20/ kg, they retail for similar prices to beef mince. Falafel is slightly pricier at $25/kg. Jackfruit, a plant grown in the tropics which I can attest tastes a lot like pulled pork, retails in canned form for an incy wincy $4.80/kg. Wait, that’s so cheap and delicious, how come we farmers didn’t even notice its arrival? Beans and legumes appear to be the staple of the vegetarian/

vegan diet, and also any budgetconscious omnivorous diet, these retail for $2.60/kg in canned form and even less if buying in bulk dry form. There is also tofu (processed soybeans) for $11/kg and quorn (processed mycoprotein and egg) for $28/kg. For balance, we will also consider bargain basement precooked meat sausages for $8/kg. Are we really certain that they aren’t vegetarian? Precooked bangers are tasty enough, so how come consumers continue to step out on $30/kg beef and lamb cuts or open their wallets for $70/kg salmon? In fact, the vegetarians that I talked to admitted to occasionally still eating salmon because salmon cravings are real and grown adults are free to eat as they please. That last bit should be shouted from the rooftops. Eating what we like is one of the few virtues of adulthood and that is something that all of us, whatever we choose to eat, can work a little harder to defend in the midst of “experts” who casually discuss populationwide dietary restrictions. Putting that to one side, as long as we farmers continue to provide our consumers with the experiences that they crave, there will be feet in gumboots for years to come.

Why do we love our cows like they’re family? Because they are family Treating your animals with respect and kindness is vital. To us, it’s how we farm. In fact, we aim to be world leading in animal care. Why? Because we’re dairy farmers and we rise to the challenge. And it’s in these moments we shine.

Riseandshine.nz

Opinion

34 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Time and a place The Braided Trail

Keith Woodford

IN MY last article on forestry, a little over two months ago, I ended by saying that “there is a need for an informed and wide-ranging debate as we search for the path that will lead to the right trees in the right place, planted and owned by the right people”. Here I take up that issue again. In the interim, the Climate Change Commission (CCC) has published its draft report on how New Zealand might meet its Paris obligations through to 2050. A key message in the report is that forestry must not be used as the get out of jail card (my term) that avoids facing hard decisions elsewhere in the economy. The CCC estimate is that under current policy settings and with carbon priced at $35 per tonne, then new forests will increase by 1.1 million hectares by 2050. If the carbon price rises to $50, then the CCC thinks new plantings will increase to 1.3m ha. Here is their precise wording (p45) in relation to using forestry in this way: “This (forestry-based approach) would fail to drive meaningful decarbonisation and instead use up land resources for the purpose of offsetting avoidable emissions. This is not sustainable and would leave the next generation with the task of reducing gross emissions at the same time as they will need to be adapting to escalating climate change impacts.” The CCC has done an important job by pointing out that it is a policy that takes us to the 2050 targets, but then leaves NZ falling off a cliff. As the Commission puts it: “We need to avoid pushing the burden to future generations.” The CCC then suggests just 380,000ha of new exotic forestry by 2035, in addition to replanting of harvested forests, together with 300,000ha of permanent native forests on less productive lands. The CCC says (p67) that there is “in the order of 1,150,000 to 1,4000,00ha of marginal land” that could be most suitable for these permanent forests but acknowledges nursery capacity, pest control and fencing as practical limits to the speed at which this conversion can occur. The apparent flaw is that the CCC seems to over-align permanent forests with native species. The much-maligned radiata pine can also provide an important pathway towards nonharvested permanent forests on

some marginal lands. It is much easier and a great deal cheaper to establish radiata pine than native forests. The fast-growing radiata will also provide much greater carbon credits. There is no single answer as to the right tree for permanent forests. However, radiata pine and perhaps other trees such as Douglas fir do have a role to play, even if the long-term aspirations remain focused on natives. Sterile pine-hybrids, which do exist, might be part of that transformation strategy. Meanwhile, the scrum is getting screwed. A key issue right now is that government policy is screwing the scrum towards forestry on productive farmland. This derives from a policy that encourages foreign investment on productive land as long as that land is used for production forestry. Conversely, these investors cannot purchase the land for farming purposes. This policy means that investment decisions largely lie in the hands of foreign investors with time horizons based on the first production cycle. Their logical decision processes, based on 17-year carbon averaging and first-cycle lumber at around 28 years, take us right up to the 2050 regulatory cliff that the CCC has so elegantly described. Big questions therefore need to be asked as to why government policy favours overseas investment in production forestry. NZ has plenty of capital of its own looking for a productive home, so why are we screwing the scrum in this way to foreign investment? Converting farmland to forestry does not require foreign technology or imported materials. Why does it need foreign investors? It would be better if New Zealanders were making those decisions. The second area of policy where the Government does have a role to play is in fostering permanent forestry investment on steep and erosion-prone marginal land. This is where institutional factors need realignment. Perhaps there is a need for an extension of QE2 Trust mechanisms so that planting of permanent exotic forests on steep land can be undertaken in partnership between landowners and the public to create win-win situations for all. My use of the term public rather than simply government is purposeful. This reflects that there could be an increased role for the NZ Super Fund, for example, to invest in joint ventures with landowners on behalf of all of us. Then, there’s the need for independent information. Just recently, I enjoyed a Sunday lunch with a very experienced farmer with professional forestry qualifications who has lived his

NOT SET IN STONE: Keith Woodford believes that while radiata pine do have a role to play, there is no single answer as to the right tree for permanent forests.

life with a focus on the ‘right tree in the right place’. He has complemented this with placing the ‘right livestock in the right place’. One topic we discussed was the lack of good-quality independent forestry information available to farmers. And from there he introduced the idea of an independent farm-forestry extension system.

I do wonder whether such a service could be created to assist landowners through the decisionmaking maze that they now face in relation to farm and forestry landuse decisions.

By coincidence, in recent months I have been sharing reminiscences with former extension officers from the long-extinguished Ministry of Agriculture Farm Advisory service. That was where I started my own career a long time ago.

I see zero chance for reestablishment of an agriculturallyfocused service for farmers. In large part this is because farmers have many existing sources of information relating to their farming activities. However, there is a real gap in relation to unbiased independent forestry expertise which farmers can trust. Under the old farm advisory system – dismantled by neoliberal policies in 1987 – advisers were expected to work in the interests of farmers. They did not see themselves as being tools of government policy. Rather, they were science and economics-led in trying to help farmers achieve their own goals. The Farm Advisory Service did have a system for reporting back to the Government as to the issues from a farmer perspective and what advisers were doing to assist farmers, but advisers would never have taken instructions from the Government as to the policies they were to promote. Many of us have opined over subsequent years that, with the destruction of the farm advisory service, ‘Wellington’ lost its independent perspective of what was really happening in rural communities. Instead, agriculture

policy was increasingly led and administered by people who did not understand agriculture. The essence of the advisory relationship was farmer trust. Therefore, if the Government had ever told advisers what to say, then we would have given the Government the proverbial two fingers. I do wonder whether such a service could be created to assist landowners through the decisionmaking maze that they now face in relation to farm and forestry land-use decisions. Such a body might also keep the Government much better informed as to the landholder decision-making framework. The fundamental issue is that such advisers are not agents of government. They must be independent of the government and every other lobby group in any advice they give. It is worth thinking about.

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

World

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Farm workers at exploitation risk The Government has expanded its Seasonal Workers Pilot for 2021, with 30,000 visas available for people who want to come and work on UK farms.

Farmers and growers may be faced with a very stark choice of not picking their crops or using workers who do not have the right to work to pick them. Professor Dave Walsh De Montfort University It has also announced that it will build on its Pick for Britain campaign to promote the recruitment of domestic seasonal workers. The Government has

suggested that unemployed Brits and students could also make up part of the shortfall. But the NFU says more than 70,000 seasonal workers will still be needed to fill the gaps. Because of the transient and seasonal nature of the work, it has been hard for the farming industry to attract staff from the UK and it has relied heavily on EU migrant workers for the past 20 years. And experts in modern slavery believe illegal gangmasters could take advantage of the labour shortfall by exploiting more workers. Many companies are still unclear how the Home Office’s points-based immigration system will work in practice, and they have criticised a lack of information from the Government about what processes and checks would be needed to meet requirements. Researchers say many

Farming in the classroom TENS of thousands of schoolchildren across the UK are taking part in virtual lessons, which aim to bring the world of farming to the classroom. Welsh sheep farmer Sioned Davies kicked off a week-long programme by delivering an online lesson on lambing last week. Students were given virtual front-row seats in the lambing shed to experience lambs being delivered. “As someone who is at the start of their career in agriculture, it’s really exciting to share the opportunities within farming with the next generation,” Davies, who was brought up on a family beef, sheep and contracting farm in Powys, said. “It’s even better when you get to open up a whole new world to children who may have never been on a farm, or perhaps even to the countryside. “I have learned so much through my agricultural journey and continue to do so, for example about how we can balance food production with environmental delivery. “By sharing my experience I hope to inspire schoolchildren to follow a career in agriculture – after all, life in farming is a constant education.” The NFU Live lessons will teach 200,000 primary school children about science and technology in farming as part of British Science Week. Students will be taught everything from the life cycles of farm animals and plants, to how future technology can benefit the environment. The NFU says the lessons are essential to teach young children about where their food comes from and how farmers look after their livestock and the environment. The union hopes it will inspire more children to take up Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (Stem) subjects and also consider a career in farming. “The high levels of animal welfare I see and practice every day is a core part of British farming,” Industry vet Navaratnam Partheeban, who led the veterinary school lesson, said. “As a person who cares for animals for a living, it’s really important to me that all generations develop an understanding of animals’ needs, health and welfare, both within farming and outside it. “I truly believe that getting children engaged and showing them how it’s done right will carry us well into the future.” UK Farmers Weekly

CONCERN: Farmers say new immigration rules designed to limit numbers of lowskilled workers coming to the UK will leave them short of staff to pick fruit and crops.

smaller businesses could close as they are unable to afford to implement legal alternatives to unskilled labour suggested by the Government, such as robots and large-scale automation. “It will create the opportunities for exploitation, and put farmers and growers into a difficult position and at risk of immigration enforcement action,” one company said. DMU professor of

criminal investigation Dave Walsh says farmers and growers may be faced with a very stark choice of not picking their crops or using workers who do not have the right to work to pick them. “Companies reported that this will allow criminals to prey on vulnerability and increase the risk of exploitation,” Walsh said. The research team will continue the project until June. A report will then be created, detailing the project’s findings and recommendations to policymakers to reduce risks of labour exploitation. UK Farmers Weekly

INCREASED CONSUMPTION: Despite the annual Veganuary campaign, which encourages consumers to switch to a vegan lifestyle for the month of January, UK consumers beefed up their meat diets during the first month of 2021.

UK meat, dairy sales grow UK SHOPPERS bought more meat and dairy products in January than they did a year ago, with minced beef, cheese and milk proving an essential part of many consumers’ diet during the latest covid-19 lockdown. Latest figures from market analyst Kantar show retail volumes of red meat were up 15% and dairy also showed a strong performance – up nearly 12% compared with last January. This is despite the annual Veganuary campaign, which encourages consumers to switch to a vegan lifestyle for the month of January. Red meat and dairy retail sales have seen solid growth since covid-19 restrictions were first introduced last March, with shoppers typically buying more meat and milk through supermarkets because of the closure of the foodservice sector. Over the past 12 weeks, sales volumes of primary red meat rose 18%, with mince driving much of the growth, along with burgers, steaks and traditional roasting joints. Dairy also saw significant growth, with shoppers buying an average of five litres more milk than they did in the same period before the pandemic.

Fresh cream sales rose by 21% and there was also growth in sales of regional and speciality cheeses, with consumers keen to explore different varieties of cheese to use in their cooking. At the same time, strong growth has also been seen across meatfree and dairy alternatives. Sales of meat-free products increased in volume by 13.3% during the last quarter, according to the data. However, research shows that many shoppers are including meat-free within their repertoire without cutting out meat completely, as 62% of shopping baskets containing meat-free also contained a meat product. Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) strategy director for beef and lamb Rebecca Miah says the numbers reflected how highly valued red meat and dairy were to consumers. “While alternatives show growth from a small base, these are mostly complementary additional purchases driven by interest and variety, rather than a move away from real meat and dairy consumption,” Miah said. Meat-free remains a small category, at less than 2% of the size of meat, fish and poultry. UK Farmers Weekly

Agrievents Thursday 08/04/2021 Seeing, Understanding, Believing Field Day Since November 2020 in a project funded by the Our Land and Water National Science Challenge, farmers within the Nguturoa Catchment near Linton have been studying stream health, greenhouse gas and farm management issues. The field day is an opportunity to discuss and see the results from our project to date with farmers, industry groups, scientists and policy agencies Where: 267 Millricks Line, Linton in the Manawatu Time: Start 10.30am and finish at 2.30pm including a farm and stream walk. For further information contact Terry Parminter at KapAg Ltd, terry.parminter@kapag.nz In the event of raised Covid-19 Alert Levels in the region, the field day will be cancelled. AWDT Next Level 2021 Your community and sector needs changemakers – women ready to make a positive difference for the people and places they love. In 2021, is that you? Run by our friends at @ AgriWomensDevelopmentTrust, Next Level is a six-month leadership and governance development programme empowering you to make a positive impact in your world. Registrations are now open – the first step on your journey to understanding your ‘why’ and building the mindset and skills to make change happen. Learn more at https://www.awdt.org.nz/ programmes/next-level/

Should your event be listed here? Phone 0800 85 25 80 or email adcopy@globalhq.co.nz

LK0105355©

FARM businesses fear new postBrexit immigration rules will cause a shortage in seasonal labour and lead to more workers being exploited in food processing and farming. Research teams from De Montfort University (DMU) Leicester have been speaking to business leaders in the edible horticulture and agricultural industries, which includes fresh food produce, which rely heavily on seasonal labour to harvest crops. Many fruit and vegetable farms have expressed concerns about possible labour shortages this year due to the new immigration points-based system, which allows only skilled workers to settle in the UK. They say new immigration rules designed to limit numbers of low-skilled workers coming to the UK will leave them short of staff to pick fruit and crops.

Wairarapa

Substantial Dairy, Dairy Support, Lifestyle and Sheep/Cattle Farming Portfolio Woodleigh Farm Trust, located in the Wairarapa District, offers its property holdings for sale providing an outstanding opportunity for either owner operators or investors seeking to acquire a large mixed agricultural portfolio of two supported dairy units, a large lifestyle property as well as a substantial drystock sheep and cattle unit all with an exceptional location north of Masterton in the semi-summer safe localities Kopuaranga and Mauriceville.

The two dairy units and lifestyle property with dwelling share common boundaries, with the other two properties within 7 km from the dairy units.

• 235 Donovans Road, an irrigated dairy unit of 143.6 ha

For more information about these properties pb.co.nz/woodleigh

• 631 Opaki Kaiparoro Road, dairy unit 173.8 ha with multiple titles

These properties are available as individual units or any combination, including options for going concern including livestock, plant and machinery.

• Opaki Kaiparoro Road, 90.84 ha, currently used as dairy support block with subdivision potential • 398 Opaki Kaiparoro Road, 29.97 ha lifestyle/support block with substantial dwelling with subdivision potential • 436 Jacksons Line, 362.6 ha sheep and cattle property currently used as dairy support John Arends M 027 444 7380

Jared Brock M 027 449 5496

Paul Joblin Steve Penn M 027 443 3756 M 027 448 1221

Kopuaranga 235 Donovans Road Final Notice

Woodleigh - 143 ha Located 14 km to the north of Masterton is a well sought after mid-scale dairy unit featuring favourable soil types and contour. Farming improvements consist of a 26 ASHB milking shed, various implement, feed and calf rearing sheds. Approximately 35 ha is irrigated by K-line system providing early summer growth assurance. Currently milking 280 cows, with average annual production over the past three years being circa 85,000 kgMS of an effective platform area of 112 ha. The remaining area is in a mix of native bush and established woodlots. Woodleigh is completed with two dwellings with the main homestead featuring three bedrooms + office and two living areas. Woodleigh features some of the districts most favourable soil types and is well suited to continue as a dairy operation or diversify into finishing/cropping. Property Brokers Pahiatua Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 | pb.co.nz

Tender closes Tuesday 30th March, 2021 at 2.00pm, to be submitted to Property Brokers, 203 Chapel Street, Masterton View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/PR82772 Jared Brock M 027 449 5496 Paul Joblin M 027 443 3756 Stephen Penn M 027 448 1221

E jared@pb.co.nz E paulj@pb.co.nz E stephenp@pb.co.nz Proud to be here

Wairarapa Kopuaranga 631 Opaki Kaiparoro Road Final Notice

Kopuaranga - 173 ha Located some 14 km to the north of Masterton is a well sought after mid-scale dairy unit featuring favourable soil types and contour. Farming improvements consist of a 24 ASHB milking shed, three old woolsheds, various implement, feed and calf rearing sheds. The property has milked up to 450 cows, which has previously included a winter milking herd of 160 cows. Average production over the past three years is circa 120,000 kgMS off the platform area of 160 ha. The property features a three bedroom homestead set in mature grounds. Kopuaranga features excellent road frontage and multiple titles providing subdivision options for the incoming purchaser.

Tender closes Tuesday 30th March, 2021 at 2.00pm, to be submitted to Property Brokers, 203 Chapel Street, Masterton View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/PR82771 Jared Brock M 027 449 5496 Paul Joblin M 027 443 3756 Stephen Penn M 027 448 1221

E jared@pb.co.nz E paulj@pb.co.nz E stephenp@pb.co.nz

Kopuaranga Opaki Kaiparoro Road Final Notice

Millers Block - 90 ha Comprising 90 ha of fertile dairy support land located within the Opaki District, some 11 km to the north east of Masterton. The land is currently all in pasture and is being utilised for the production of hay, baleage and for grazing but could also be utilised for growing crops. Farming improvements include large cattle yards, laneway, reticulated water and hayshed. The property is well subdivided into 16 main paddocks by both conventional and electric fencing. This bareland property features an excellent building platform should you wish to build your dream home within commuting distance to Masterton.

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

Tender closes Tuesday 30th March, 2021 at 2.00pm, to be submitted to Property Brokers, 203 Chapel Street, Masterton View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/PR82769 Jared Brock M 027 449 5496 Paul Joblin M 027 443 3756 Stephen Penn M 027 448 1221

E jared@pb.co.nz E paulj@pb.co.nz E stephenp@pb.co.nz Proud to be here

Wairarapa Kopuaranga 398 Opaki Kaiparoro Road Final Notice

Support/cropping block - 29 ha Located within the Opaki District, some 12 km to the north of Masterton is a well apportioned 29 ha larger lifestyle/support or cropping block. Improvements on the property include an attractive modern homestead of 320 m2. The home features a master bedroom suite, two further double bedrooms, an open plan kitchen, dining, family room, a formal lounge, family bathroom and laundry on the ground floor. A large fourth bedroom/rumpus room on the upper floor above the garage. The home sits within attractive developed gardens, which include a covered patio area attached to the house, a double detached garage and wood shed. The property has been utilised as dairy support and cropping and is well suited to most farming practices utilising some of the districts best soil types.

Tender closes Tuesday 30th March, 2021 at 2.00pm, to be submitted to Property Brokers, 203 Chapel Street, Masterton View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/PR82770 Jared Brock M 027 449 5496 Paul Joblin M 027 443 3756 Stephen Penn M 027 448 1221

E jared@pb.co.nz E paulj@pb.co.nz E stephenp@pb.co.nz

Mauriceville 436 Jacksons Line Final Notice

Val'dor - 362 ha Val'dor is a summer safe sheep and beef semi finishing farm situated approximately 18 km to the north east of Masterton. The farm is currently being operated as a dairy support block running young stock and wintering mixed age dairy cows. Val'dor features a four bedroom home with expansive decking set in mature grounds. Farming improvements include a four stand woolshed with adjoining covered yards, various shedding, satellite yards, cattle yards, a fertiliser bin and airstrip. The property has a good range of contours, including some 95 ha of easy cultivatable hills, the remaining area is mainly medium hill with some steeper sidlings. In addition there is some 12 ha of pine trees and bush, and a further 5.6 ha of QE11. Located in a sought after district, Val'dor provides the astute purchaser an excellent add on or first farm.

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

Tender closes Tuesday 30th March, 2021 at 2.00pm, to be submitted to Property Brokers, 203 Chapel Street, Masterton View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/PR82752 Jared Brock M 027 449 5496 Paul Joblin M 027 443 3756 Stephen Penn M 027 448 1221

E jared@pb.co.nz E paulj@pb.co.nz E stephenp@pb.co.nz Proud to be here

Dannevirke D/277 Graham Road Tender

High end dairy farm with size and scale A substantial dairy farm located in the dress circle of the Tararua District. This property has size and scale with 225 ha of flat to rolling, highly productive land, milking 600 cows and producing 220,000 kgMS per annum. Improvements include an immaculate main homestead positioned on an easy care section with stunning views encompassing surrounding farm land. An exceptional managers house, a workers house, a modern 42 ASHB milking shed and various implement shed. This dairy unit can be bought as a stand alone unit or with the beef/dairy support unit which is of contiguous land, featuring 146 ha of easy rolling to medium hill country. Both options have excellent soil fertility, well established pastures, good fencing and laneways.

Tender closes Thursday 8th April, 2021 at 2.00pm, Property Brokers Office, 4 Stanley Street, Dannevirke View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/DR83313

Jim Crispin M 027 717 8862

E jimc@pb.co.nz

Dannevirke G/277 Graham Road New Listing

Prime grazing block An aesthetically pleasing property with native plantings completing a highly productive 146 ha offering a great balance of contour. The property is rolling to medium hill country, currently utilised as support to a dairy unit, with sheep and beef finishing. Farm improvements include a double garage utilised as a storage shed and 2 three bay sheds. The water is pumped from a dam to troughs. A sound fertiliser history adds to this appealing property with so much versatility. Excellent location, with a nice building site which enjoys views overlooking the Oringi District. This block of land is some of the best located, handy to Dannevirke township, and would suit a retiring farmer or a farm owner looking to grow.

For Sale By Negotiation View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/DR83590

Jim Crispin M 027 717 8862 Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 | pb.co.nz

E jimc@pb.co.nz Proud to be here

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Real Estate

Rangiora 204 Flaxton Road

Invercargill 997 Waituna Lagoon Road

Flaxton Manor - Immaculate

Lower Mataura Valley 296 ha

Architecturally-designed to maximise both the natural light and views of the garden, this beautiful residence is located minutes from the heart of Rangiora. This immaculately presented property has been a very successful B & B business in the past, as well as a stunning Boutique Wedding venue. Flaxton Manor offers a 488 m2 two-level dwelling, together with a self-contained two-bedroom unit, a separate 70 m2 three car garaging plus an additional commercial laundry. The Manor has four bedrooms, large office, two bathrooms and a powder room. Three of the bedrooms are on the upper level from the feature staircase, situated in the impressive entrance foyer. Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 | pb.co.nz

FARMERS WEEKLY – March 15, 2021

For Sale Buyers $2,300,000+ View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/RL83959

Maurice Newell M 027 240 1718 Hamish Anderson M 027 678 8888

• Heifer grazing or fattening unit • Set up for grazing heifers, calves or cows on grass and 20 ha of winter crop • Central race with water to all 100 plus paddocks, excellent regrassing and fertiliser history • A sheltered operation, flat contour, with a history of reliable stock weights over last 30 years • Excellent recently renovated four-bedroom home with excellent and varied shedding and yarding to suit any requirement of farming

For Sale By Negotiation View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/IR79574

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

John Beaufill M 027 431 0054

O PE N

D AY S

Team Taranaki

Opunake 497 Wiremu Road Large Dairy Unit – Taranaki

BLUE CHIP LIFESTYLE LIVING 331 Burnand Road, Manunui This immaculately presented property presents the ultimate lifestyle opportunity. Consisting predominantly of easy contour land giving options of diversity. The quality and spacious 4bedroom home is positioned on an elevated site giving fantastic 360-degree rural views. As an additional bonus, the large 4-bay implement shed is fully lockable with concrete floor and power. This property is not only suitable as an intensive finishing unit or superior lifestyle block but also as a dairy grazing or cropping unit having previously grown maize, cereal and fodder crops. Currently finishing 600 lambs and 98 1.5yrs steers.

40.16 HA | 4 BED | 2 BATH Auction

nzr.nz/RX2717545

Auction (unless sold prior) 11am, Thu 15 Apr 2021 NZR, 1 Goldfinch Street, Ohakune Jamie Proude AREINZ 027 448 5162 | jamie@nzr.nz Open Days | 11am - 12pm Sun 14 March 2021 Tue 16 March 2021 Tue 23 March 2021 NZR Central Ltd | Licensed REAA 2008

Only 12.8kms from Opunake, this 315 hectare mainly flat daily unit consists of 285.67 Hectares of Freehold land with four titles plus 29.1374 Hectares of PKW leasehold. Buildings consist of 50 bale rotary dairy, 4 feed sheds, 4 implement sheds. Paddocks are serviced by well maintained central metal race. Stock currently includes 400 dairy cows plus 455 mixed stock. Supplements made – 750 tonne Maize, 900 bales hay/silage. There are four houses – the main house has five bedrooms, expansive open plan living. Options available. Please ring for more information. Tender closes 26 March 2021, 4.00pm at 51 Devon Street West, New Plymouth (unless sold prior) View by appointment taranakiharcourts.co.nz/NP8243 and video on www.open2view ID464441

Pat McFetridge AREINZ M 027 273 3940 P 06 759 9160 pat@taranakiharcourts.co.nz

Linda McFetridge M 027 207 6809

linda@taranakiharcourts.co.nz Team Taranaki Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – March 15, 2021

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

NEW LISTING

Boundary lines are indicative only

Hawke's Bay 109 Springfield Road, Taradale

6.0 hectare Hawke's Bay G3 kiwifruit Located on the outskirts of Napier in the sunny Hawke's Bay is this recently developed six hectare kiwifruit orchard. With 4.5 canopy hectares of fully licensed G3 (2018 grafted) on Ag Beam pergola structures the production levels are only going to improve. There is a very good water consent for irrigation and frost control. The orchard will be sold with the G3 crop included, providing a superb opportunity for the incoming owners to benefit from the excellent returns and continued global demand for vitamin C rich gold kiwifruit. Don't snooze on this rare find. Your opportunity to purchase the winning golden kiwi ticket!

Tender (will not be sold prior) Closing 4pm, Wed 7 Apr 2021 17 Napier Road, Havelock North View by appointment Tony Rasmussen 027 429 2253 tony.rasmussen@bayleys.co.nz EASTERN REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/2852514

SUMMER GREEN

TARARUA

Boundary lines are indicative only

www.forfarms.co.nz - FF3166

Offers over $6,380,000 + GST

Horotiu 264 Crawford Road

Jerome Pitt M: 027 242 2199 O: 06 374 4107 E: jeromep@forfarms.co.nz

A blank canvas Situated on the preferred northern side of Hamilton, this approximately twenty hectare property has many attractions including level contour, reliable water and alluvial soil. It has a long history of cropping with the current use being maize. The improvements include an implement shed, multipurpose shed, carport and an older home. Due to their age and condition, this property is likely to be viewed as a blank canvas. With immediate proximity to Hamilton this makes for a very popular location. LK0106300©

Welcome to Lochiel Farm, a magnificent summergreen 637 hectare (1,575 acre) sheep and beef breeding and finishing farm situated in Tararua. With approximately 315 hectares cultivatable, excellent soil types, a great fertiliser programme and a solid production history - this is a quality farm. In addition to being part of the district water scheme, the farm has a 5-stand woolshed and covered yards, cattle yards, satellite yards, a great network of laneways and a good range of sheds and infrastructure. Added to this are the three homes on the property with two being 4-bedroom and one being 2-bedroom. The farm is excellently located approximately 7km from the township of Pongaroa, 53km from Pahiatua and 66km from Dannevirke.

bayleys.co.nz/2312139

Auction (unless sold prior) 11am, Thu 25 Mar 2021 96 Ulster Street, Hamilton View 2-2.30pm Wed 17 Mar Sharon Evans AREINZ 027 235 4771 sharon.evans@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

RURAL | LIFESTYLE | RESIDENTIAL

FINAL NOTICE

TAUMARUNUI, KING COUNTRY 117 Cemetery Road

Otangiwai Station - 1562ha

DEADLINE PRIVATE TREATY

Magnificently contoured farm - extensive flats and easy hill to strong Matiere hills.

(Unless Sold Prior) Closes 3.00pm, Friday 9 April PGGWRE, 57 Rora Street, Te Kuiti

Excellent fencing and lane-ways throughout the property.

VIEW 10.00-1.00pm

Strong fertiliser and top water supply. Vendors have run cattle only in the past - over 3000 cattle wintered. Opportunity to purchase a top class farm with fertility, infrastructure and scale rarely come to the market. This is the opportunity of a lifetime.

Tuesday 16, 23 & 30 March Peter Wylie M 027 473 5855 | B 07 878 0265 E pwylie@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz/TEK33634

TENDER

EXCLUSIVE

GLEN MURRAY, AUCKLAND Traditional Farm Large traditional sheep and beef farm situated 22kms from Franklin's livestock yards. School bus to the popular Onewhero Area School. The property is subdivided into 35 main paddocks with multiple sets of sheep and cattle yards. Good support buildings. Spacious home set in mature gardens has three bedrooms, two living rooms, two bathrooms plus office. Two-car garage with attached sleep-out with ensuite/bathroom. Plus a three-bedroom farm cottage. Added opportunity to substantially increase the farm size with 636 hectares next door also for sale. pggwre.co.nz/PUK33880

TENDER

Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 4.00pm, Friday 23 April 219 Manukau Road, Pukekohe

VIEW By Appointment Only

Adrian van Mil M 027 473 3632 E avanmil@pggwrightson.co.nz

GLEN MURRAY, AUCKLAND Benmar Station Glen Murray This 637 hectare (approx) dry stock farm situated in Glen Murray is a prime example of a well thought out and well-presented farm, from the high standard of the two homes, to the infrastructure, to the raceway system for access to the whole farm. Everything has been well thought out and executed.

www.pggwre.co.nz

TENDER

Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold By Private Treaty) Closes 3.00pm, Wednesday 14 April

VIEW By Appointment Only

For a quality Sheep and Beef unit, this will be hard to go past. Mark Needham M 027 704 6833 E mneedham@pggwrightson.co.nz pggwre.co.nz/PUK33751

PROPERTY PROPERTY

Helping grow the country

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

onnections ount

Connect with experience, knowledge, nationwide reach, and great rural properties in the latest issue of Property Expresss!

Express Express

pggwre.co.nz/publications

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under the REAA 2008

Helping grow the country

RURAL | LIFESTYLE | RESIDENTIAL

FINAL NOTICE

EDGECUMBE, BAY OF PLENTY

TENDER

TENDER Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold By Private Treaty) Closes 4.00pm, Thursday 18 March

DALEFIELD, WAIRARAPA

154 HYDRO ROAD Hydro Road has been identified as a supreme location in Whakatane to grow Sungold G3 kiwi fruit. Presently there is a planned development of some 200 hectares to kiwi fruit, right in the same vicinity. Here we have 10.7 hectares of flat, fertile soils, a good climate and prime location. This is your chance to develop a high returning kiwi fruit orchard.

VIEW By Appointment Only

This type of land is in short supply and is highly sought after. Do not be slow, start your due diligence today!

Phil Goldsmith M 027 494 1844 E pgoldsmith@pggwrightson.co.nz

Once in a lifetime opportunity to purchase 182 hectares of spectacular land overlooking the Wairarapa Valley and the Waiohine Gorge. Consisting of approximately 157ha of native bush, 25ha of mature pine trees ready for harvest, with good main track and access to multiple building and beehive sites nestled amongst the stunning native bush and wildlife. The property is conveniently located within 13km to Greytown or Carterton and 3.9km to the Matarawa Train Station for easy commute to Wellington. This bounds the Waiohine River which gives loads of recreational opportunities.

Supreme Location for Horticulture

Native Bush / Bees / Forestry / Hunting

pggwre.co.nz/WHK33779

pggwre.co.nz/MAS33810

NEW LISTING

FEATHERSTON, WAIRARAPA Turnkey Dairy - Going Concern This 121.9ha dairy farm shows a high level of profitability from consistent production at 172,657kg over 4 years. 91ha under irrigation within a 105ha eff milking platform and in-shed feeding. Groundwater irrigation and effluent discharge Consents in place to 2030. 40 bail rotary shed, auto cup removers for efficient one-person milking. Usual range of ancillary sheds for calf rearing, feed storage and implements along with a 180t grain silo. Years of careful breeding is reflected in this top herd. Management locked in for 21/22.

pggwre.co.nz/MAS33274

PRICE BY NEGOTIATION Plus GST (if any)

VIEW By Appointment Only

John Murray M 027 493 3759 E john.murray@pggwrightson.co.nz

BROOMFIELD, NORTH CANTERBURY Unlock Huge Potential at ‘Tullamore‘ 393.8652ha of downs to medium hill, held in one title and on the north bank of the Waipara River and at the foot of the Three Deans Range. Subdivided into 22 paddocks, all mostly cultivatable and five blocks. Natural shelter plus pine plantings. The water supply for both the stock and domestic is County Scheme plus a tapped spring. The four bedroom homestead is set in an attractive setting and extremely well sheltered. Purchase, further develop and reap the rewards. Your early inspection is highly recommended.

www.pggwre.co.nz

Plus GST (if any) Closes 4.00pm, Tuesday 13 April

VIEW By Appointment Only

Bevan Edwards M 027 204 2895 E bevan.edwards@pggwrightson.co.nz

DEADLINE PRIVATE TREATY

Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 2.00pm, Wednesday 7 April

VIEW By Appointment Only

Bruce Hoban M 027 588 8889 E bhoban@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz/RAN33864

PROPERTY PROPERTY

Helping grow the country

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

onnections ount

TENDER

Connect with experience, knowledge, nationwide reach, and great rural properties in the latest issue of Property Expresss!

Express Express

pggwre.co.nz/publications

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under the REAA 2008

Helping grow the country

farmersweekly.co.nz/advertising 0800 85 25 80

Tech & Toys

FARMERS WEEKLY – March 15, 2021

SHEEP JETTER Sheep dipping… made easier!

• Manufactured from stainless steel • Electric Eye • 800-1000 sheep per hour

• Fantastic penetration • Get one now before price increase

7685

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+ GST

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Innovative Agriculture Equipment

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E R O M D E E N

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Get the NEW Terrafirma errafirma 50/50 Rugged Terrain Wheel & Tyre Package CALL US TODAY!

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INTRODUCING THE WORLD’S MOST PRODUCTIVE COMBINATION FEED WAGON YET.

STARRING

“A GAME CHANGER FOR LARGESCALE FARMS & HERDS”

COMBI RX218 Visit hustlerequipment.com for more details

Primary Pathways – Jobs, Education & Training

www.no8hr.co.nz | ph: 07-870-4901

0800 436 566

Dairy

SCOTTY’S CONTRACTORS

Dairy Sheep Farm Manager Labourer

NZ’s #1 Under Woolshed/Covered Yards Cleaning Specialist For Over A Decade

Regional Business Development Managers Senior Agronomist

www.underthewoolshed.kiwi

Senior Shepherd

Working Taihape, Raetihi, Ohakune and National Park areas. Book your shed now

Shepherd Shepherd General

Ph: Scott Newman 027 26 26 272 0800 27 26 88

Stock Manager

scottnewman101@gmail.com

*FREE upload to Farmers Weekly jobs: farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz

We also clean out and remetal cattle yards – Call us!

*conditions apply

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

LK0106303©

A position is available on a sheep and beef farm, 420 hectares, 16km south of Waipukurau in the popular Flemington district, wintering 3300 stock units. Essential requirements for the position are: • Good stock management and finishing skills • Pasture and feed crop expertise • Good stock husbandry • Maintenance and development • Good reporting and reconciliation skills • A team player as part of a larger farming business A first class three bedroom home is available, with Flemington Primary School 6km away. CHB College in Waipukurau is nearby. A wide range of recreational activities available. Applicants should apply with CV and referees to: Tim and Janet Cullwick tjcullwick@gmail.com Mobile: 027 245 3396

NZ’s finest BioGro certified Mg fertiliser For a delivered price call ....

JOBS BOARD

CENTRAL HAWKE’S BAY

LK0106331©

Lots of our clients are investing in groovy apps that make flexible working a reality on dairy farms….so this could be your opportunity to step into a dairy farming career without the need to commit to ‘on-farm’ living and a working week that feels like it might never let up! Using a four-hour shift system, you can choose whether you want to work four or eight hours a day, and you can vary this to suit your needs. Imagine, school holidays you could work less, term time you could work more, you could work around your uni studies, you could plan your work around fishing (if you trust the weather forecast!!)….the possibilities are endless. Equally, you can look at what shifts are available where and have some choice about which farm you work on. Building your dairy farming career whilst still having a life outside work just got a whole lot easier... Of course, while clever technology enables this, it’s also forward thinking and progressive employers who make it work and are committed to up-skilling teams so they can enjoy their job and think about next steps if a career in dairying is what they want. We have clients throughout the greater Waikato who are keen to know about people in their area who might be interested in working arrangements that include early, middle and late daytime shifts and flexibility to choose a fortnight in advance the hours you want to work. You’ll be a proper employee and you’ll agree a guaranteed number of hours…. What do you think? Give us a call today to have a preliminary conversation. As a minimum you’ll need to be drug free and committed to working safely. So much the better if you’ve experienced work outside or on farm before, but many of our clients are keen to train people with a genuine interest in the dairy industry.

DOLOMITE

farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz

STOCK MANAGER

LK0105354©

FLEXIBLE WORKING AND A DAIRY FARMING CAREER - IT IS POSSIBLE!

LK0106183©

Noticeboard

ATTENTION FARMERS FAST GRASS www.gibb-gro.co.nz GROWTH PROMOTANT Only $6.00 per hectare + GST delivered Call Grant Morris 0508 GIBBGRO (0508 442247) grant@Gibb-Gro.co.nz

BIRDS/POULTRY PULLETS HY-LINE brown, great layers. 07 824 1762. Website: eurekapoultryfarm.weebly. com – Have fresh eggs each day!!!

12-MONTH HEADING dog and bitch. Fast, strong, pulling sides, good command. Station and trial potential. Nolan Timmins. Phone 027 932 8839. WORD ONLY ADVERTISING. Phone Marie on 0800 985 25 80. DELIVERING DOGS NZ wide 23/3/21 www.youtube.com/user/ mikehughesworkingdog/ videos email: mikehughesworkingdogs@ farmside.co.nz 07 315 5553.

DOGS WANTED 23rd-30th MARCH. Buying Headers, Huntaways, Beardies, Collies NZ Wide. email: mikehughesworkingdogs@ farmside.co.nz 07 315 5553

12 MONTHS TO 5½-yearold Heading dogs and Huntaways wanted. Phone 022 698 8195.

LIVESTOCK FOR SALE

WANTED TO RENT

IMPROVE AND SIMPLIFY day-to-day farm management with maps showing names and paddock sizes. Visit farmmapping.co.nz for a free quote.

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.

ELLIE SIX-YEAR-OLD warmblood thoroughbred mare. Quiet. $2,500 ono. Phone 06 762 2870

WEANER STEER CALVES for sale. Angus and Angus Hereford X. Phone 03 439 4761

OLD FARM HOUSE or cottage with garage. A bit run down is OK. I’m a retired handyman gardener. I’m happy to do some work in exchange for reduced rent. Manawatu area. 027 672 6435.

FORESTRY WANTED

NATIVE FOREST FOR MILLING also Macrocarpa and Red Gum, New Zealand wide. We can arrange permits and plans. Also after milled timber to purchase. NEW ZEALAND NATIVE TIMBER SUPPLIERS (WGTN) LIMITED 04 293 2097 Richard. FOR ONLY $2.10 + gst per word you can book a word only ad in Farmers Weekly Classifieds. Phone Marie on 0800 85 25 80.

GOATS WANTED NAKI GOATS. Trucking goats to the works every week throughout the NI. Mustering available. Phone Michael and Clarice. 027 643 0403.

GRAZING AVAILABLE GRAZING AVAILABLE for 150 yearling dairy heifers from 1st May 2021. Horowhenua District. Phone 021 430 961 HEIFER GRAZING AVAILABLE in Toko Stratford area. For approximately 50 heifers. Phone 06 762 2870 HEIFER GRAZING AVAILABLE from May to May. Norsewood area. Phone 027 487 8828. WORD ONLY ADVERTISING. Phone Marie on 0800 985 25 80.

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

LIVESTOCK FOR SALE WILTSHIRES-ARVIDSON. Self shearing sheep. No1 for Facial Eczema. David 027 2771 556. KAKAHO WILTSHIRE. Wiltshire ram lambs for sale. Suitable for ewe and hoggets. Good feet, easy lambing, less dags and less flystrike. Phone 03 439 4761

PERSONAL

Love is a blending of two At 5’4, with silky blonde hair, hazel eyes and a slim build, this lovely lady has a caring, fun loving personality. She enjoys the outdoors, bush walks, travelling, cooking, caravaning and swimming. She is looking for a genuine gentleman to share her life with. To meet, please call

0800 446 332

HAY FOR SALE HAY ROUNDS $75+gst; squares $60+gst. BALEAGE $75+gst. Unit loads available. Top quality. Phone 021 455 787.

50 TON WOOD SPLITTER GENUINE REDUCTION 12HP, Diesel, Electric Start

Heavy duty construction for serious wood splitting. Towable.

Call Debbie

0800 85 25 80 classifieds@globalhq.co.nz

Heavy duty long lasting Ph 021 047 9299

BARLEY & WHEAT STRAW RYE GRASS STRAW MEADOW HAY LUCERNE & MEADOW BALEAGE

Lease land wanted to grow export hay. South Island wide. Large areas of lease land required. Dryland and irrigated. Would consider anything. Please phone or text Andrew Quigley 027 436 9307 andrew.quigley@quigleyfeeds.co.nz

Selling something? LK0105451©

DOGS FOR SALE

HORSE FOR SALE

LK0106102©

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

GORSE AND THISTLE SPRAY. We also scrub cut. Four men with all gear in your area. Phone Dave 06 375 8032.

GOATS WANTED

Available in Squares & Rounds Phone Mark 0800 478 729 or Tracey 027 554 1841

QUALITY Feeds You Can TRUST

VETMARKER

Dock your lambs the easy way with the VETMARKER THE BENEFITS ARE:

the

WOOLY T

• Easy access • Less stress on lambs • Easy to load • Automatically sprays for fly strike on release

‘the WOOLY T’ …is a versatile, light weight resilient merino T. Made from NZ’s highest quality merino fabric, it is soft against the skin, breathable and odour-resistant. Its extra long body length adds to the comfort. $89.00 pp Available on the Kells Wool website or phone www.kellswool.co.nz 06 835 6174

$4200

$3900 GST INCLUSIVE

Very limited stock To find out more visit

LK0106149©

www.kellswool.co.nz

Special Price

www.moamaster.co.nz Phone 027 367 6247 Email: info@moamaster.co.nz

• Lambs are released onto their feet • Quick to set up • Easy to transport • Height adjustable • Pays for itself • 2-year warranty

Freephone 0800 DOCKER 0800 362 537 Fenemor Innovations www.vetmarker.co.nz

See at Ce us Field ntral Site MDays 13A

Vaccination, earmarking and tagging, castration, drenching, fly strike application and tail removal

ALSO AVAILABLE VETMAKER FOR WEIGHING LAMBS AT DOCKING

LK0106049©

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

FARM MAPPING

LK0106270©

CONTRACTORS

LK0106110©

ANIMAL HANDLING

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

Livestock Noticeboard

FARMERS WEEKLY – March 15, 2021

Beef up your bull knowledge HUMMEL (POLLED) HIGHLAND DISPERSAL SALE

Favoured with instructions from our vendors David and Alison Silcock. We will sell the complete stud approx. 50 cattle. Cows with calves at foot 7 VIC cows 2 RWB cows 8 RWB heifers 21 R3 heifers 15

R2 heifers R1 heifers R3 steers R2 steers R1 steers Sire Bulls

7 5 9 5 2 2

These cattle have been faithfully farmed at Galatea for 15 years and are on the market because of a change in farming policy. For further information phone Vendors David and Alison Silcock 07 366 4087 027 4894 505 NZFL Agent Shaun Bicknell 027 221 1977 This sale will be streamed live via MyLiveStock.co.nz. It is advisable to register with MyLiveStock one week prior to sale. Terms: Strictly Cash unless NZFL Account holder. Eftpos available on the day.

farmersweekly.co.nz/enewsletters

Proudly New Zealand Owned

BEEFGEN is currently purchasing animals for live export: Holstein Friesian Heifers (Born 2020) Please contact your local agent for more information.

DAIRY AUCTION Outstanding High Index Well Bred Herd & IC Heifers

BEEFGEN Livestock Manager: Brian Pearson Mobile: 0210 907 1688 Email: brian@beefgen.com BEEFGEN Office: Teeshay Harrison Phone: 06 927 7154 Email: export@beefgen.com

LK0106231©

On A/c DAVAL HIGHLAND FOLD Saturday 27th March 2021, 12noon 5100 Galatea Road, RD1, Murupara Complete dispersal of Hummel Highland Cattle.

Subscribe to our bull sales eNewsletters to receive updates with the latest results from across the country direct to your inbox.

To advertise Call Ella: 0800 85 25 80

NATIONWIDE DAIRY SPECIALISTS Go to: www.carrfieldslivestock.co.nz Register your requirements and be informed when new listings arrive

Assist farmers to make the right purchasing decisions for their herd with Dairy Farmer’s May feature

Selection of listings:

• 256 x Friesian & Friesian cross Dairy Herd BW128/53, PW208/65, LW207 RA 99% DTC 14th July • 68 x Friesian & Friesian cross In-Calf Heifers BW183 PW209 - DTC from the 18th July to Jersey Bulls • 19 x In-milk MT cows DETAILS: • BWs up to 268 - PWs up to 508 (43 cows above 300 PW, 11 cows above 400 PW) • Young age structure - (51% 3 - 4yrs, 77% 6yrs and under) • OAD milking, Herd Tested, targeting 380ms/ cow, HB shed, TB C10, Lepto vacc • Sold In-milk for immediate delivery or delivery by 31st May • DTC 14th July - 5.5wks AB, tailed with Waitangi Angus, bulls out 18th December • 59 top indexed cows (BW157 PW248) confirmed in-calf to sexed semen with expected calf avg BW of 228, these cows include 10 of the top 20 BWs & 8 of the top 20 PWs

• DH2129 – 210 x Xbred herd BW136 PW146 R/a 96% Owned 50yrs, All A1A2 content DTC 4/8 to LIC 5wks - $1700 Call: Matt 027 601 3787 • DH2132 - 250 Xbred herd BW54 PW74 – DTC 20/7 to AB Steep hill country herd - $1500 Call: Paul 027 304 8994 • DR2127 – 65 x Xbred I/C Hfrs BW185 PW197 – DTC 15/7 to Jsy Good hfrs - high index - $1300 Call: Tim 027 511 7778 • DH2124 – 190 x Top Xbred herd BW121 PW136 R/a 88% - 385ms DTC 15/7 to CRV - $1700 Call: Richard 027 407 0562

LK0105985©

• DR2125 – 38 x Xbred hfrs, BW193 PW219 – DTC 20/7 CRLine – strong hfrs $1500 Call: Daniel 027 216 3609 Contact your local agent or call: Trevor Hancock 027 283 8389 or Paul Kane: 027 286 9279

A/c JBT Holdings Trust Rodd & Maria Hodgson Date: Friday 26th March 2021 Address: 74 Sandys Road, Waipapa – Kerikeri Start Time: Machinery 10.00am Herd 11.30am (BBQ Lunch Provided)

Autumn Ram Sale

Friday 19th March 1pm

FARM MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT: Tractors & Machinery: 2018 Massey Ferguson 6712 ROPs with Loader, 800 hrs - 2010 New Holland T6050 & loader, 6500hrs - Rata 1.8M Silage Grabs - Pearson Quick Hitch - Pearson Bale Grab - 2009 Giltrap 13m² Silage Wagon - 2015 McIntosh Bale Feeder - 2008 5T Sam Spreader - 2015 Kuhn 1T 3pt linkage spreader - 2x Walco 3.5 bike spreaders - 2014 Bertolini Mulcher - 2016 3M Maxum Mower - Croplands 1100L sprayer with 8M boom – 3M Morgan’s Levelling Bar - Spiked Chain Harrows - 2015 3M Cambridge Roller - 5T Water Filler Field Roller - 2.7m feed pad scraper - 6x PKE Trailers - 3x Silage/Hay Feeders. Effluent: 2015 PTO pump - Magnum Travelling Spreader with rain gun. Calf Rearing: 50 & 60 Teat McKee calf feeders - Asstd meal bins etc. - 10 teat feeders etc. Misc: 2020 Dual Petrol/Diesel Tank - 2017 C-Dax Tow Behind Pasture Meter (used 4-5 times) - 2018 Veehoof Hoof Crush. (Note, some machinery will be required to complete the season, therefore will be sold with a 31st May delivery).

On-farm at Meadowslea Mt Cook Road, Fairlie. 123 2th Rams - Perendale x - Romney Texel x Romney - Romdale - kelso. Maternal - Texel x Romney (hogget maters) - kelso. x Romney - kelso. Terminal (blackface)

Payment date: Payment due 31st May 2021 Delivery: Sold In-milk for immediate delivery or delivery by 31st May 2021. View catalogue www.carrfieldslivestock.co.nz

farmersweekly.co.nz

David Giddings 027 229 9760 giddingsfamily@xtra.co.nz George Giddings 027 656 3323 george@yourbid.org

Enquiries to: CARRFIELDS LIVESTOCK AGENT Reuben Wright - 027 284 6384 or VENDOR: Rodd Hodgson - 021 761 739

LK0106294©

Talk to us now about your Dairy Farmer 2021 bull sale advertising 0800 85 25 80

LK0106363©

Better Bulls, Better Calves

AUCTIONEERS NOTE: Farm sold. A very high-quality herd that was originally established 30 years ago with an additional top herd purchased for a larger 50/50 position. This herd comprises the top indexed cows from those two herds. Due to OAD farming policy on this property more Xbred sires were introduced. Well managed, nominated breeding, in good condition. We totally recommend this herd.

SALE TALK A woman brought a very limp duck into a veterinary surgeon. As she laid her pet on the table, the vet pulled out his stethoscope and listened to the bird’s chest. After a moment or two, the vet shook his head and sadly said, “I’m sorry, your duck, Cuddles, has passed away.” The distressed woman wailed, “Are you sure?” “Yes, I am sure. Your duck is dead,” replied the vet. “How can you be so sure?” she protested. “I mean you haven’t done any testing on him or anything. He might just be in a coma or something.” The vet rolled his eyes, turned around and left the room. He returned a few minutes later with a black Labrador Retriever. As the duck’s owner looked on in amazement, the dog stood on his hind legs, put his front paws on the examination table and sniffed the duck from top to bottom. He then looked up at the vet with sad eyes and shook his head. The vet patted the dog on the head and took it out of the room. A few minutes later he returned with a cat. The cat jumped on the table and also delicately sniffed the bird from head to foot. The cat sat back on its haunches, shook its head, meowed softly and strolled out of the room. The vet looked at the woman and said, “I’m sorry, but as I said, this is most definitely, 100% certifiably, a dead duck.” The vet turned to his computer terminal, hit a few keys and produced a bill, which he handed to the woman. The duck’s owner, still in shock, took the bill. “$150!” she cried, “$150 just to tell me my duck is dead!” The vet shrugged, “I’m sorry. If you had just taken my word for it, the bill would have been $20, but with the Lab Report and the Cat Scan, it’s now $150.”

If you’ve got a joke you want to share with the Farming community (it must be something you’d share with your grandmother...) then email us at: saletalk@ globalhq.co.nz with Sale Talk in the subject line and we’ll print it and credit it to you. Conditions apply

Proudly Based in Hawke’s Bay

Lines R2YR BULLS 390-540kg

R2YR ANG & AHX STEERS 350-540kgs 600 MA COWS SIC SIM 15/11 230 MA ANG COWS SIC ANG 15/11

STOCK REQUIRED STORE LAMBS

Give Ella a bell: 0800 85 25 80

• Easy lambing, with very good growth rates • High Yielding Carcasses • High SIL Indexed Flock • Hill Bred and Brucellosis

farmersweekly.co.nz/enewsletters

Accredited Flock

Contact: Chris Hampton www.dyerlivestock.co.nz

P 03 614 3330 - M 027 202 5679

Ross Dyer 0274 333 381

Email: cahampton@xtra.co.nz

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

Hillender Mid Micron Meat sheep

Key: Dairy

BW 62

DAIRY HERDS & IN-CALF HEIFERS FOR SALE PGG Wrightson Dairy representatives are specialists at marketing and selling dairy herds.

Smartwool sheep bred in crossbred country since 2012

Benefit from the nationwide team that is dedicated to matching herds with the right buyers and achieving an optimal outcome for your business.

27 Rams on offer via Yourbid.co.nz auction closing 8pm 17 March

210 Big Capacity Frsn & Frsn X Cows

Lifetime Feet Guarantee on all rams sold at Auction.

BW 79

PW 111

$1,675+GST

465 M/Solids Andrew Reyland 027 223 7092 Agonline ref: 9123

210 Kiwi X Cows PW 148

$1,700+GST

•

170 XBred Frsn Frsn X Cows BW 112

SHIRE® (hair) & WILTSHIRE (shedding)

NZ’s Virtual Saleyard UPCOMING AUCTIONS

Monday, 22 March 2021 11.00am Rangatira Angus Mixed Age Cow & Calf Dispersal Sale Thursday, 25 March 2021 1.30pm Torrisdale Murray Grey Stud Female Sale Wednesday 7 April 2021 12.00pm Cawdor Stud Herd Reduction 1st Run For more information go to bidr.co.nz or contact the team on 0800 TO BIDR

$1,650+GST

•

RA 98% DTC 15/7 I/C LIC Ambreed 4 week (Nominated semen) system 1 - 380 M/ Solids Regan Craig 027 502 8585 Agonline ref: 9820

NATIONAL TEAM. LOCAL KNOWLEDGE.

NO FLY STRIKE, NO DAGGING, NO SHEARING, NO VACCINES, NO DIPPING, NO DRENCHING SINCE 1989

Phone Tim, Helen & Bob Gow 03 225 5283 www.organic-rams.co.nz • Email: tim@organic-rams.co.nz

PW 123

PW 82

$1,100+GST

•

315 M/Solids - system 1 Allan Jones 027 224 0768 Agonline ref: 9303

119 XBred Cows PW 194

$1,900+GST

•

DTC 11/7 I/C LIC 6 weeks 360 M/Solids Top 5% on BW, PW Steve Taylor 027 648 6711 Agonline ref: 9854

118 Jsy/Jsy X Cows BW 144

PW 127

$1,550+GST

•

DTC 26/6 I/C LIC Jsy/Hereford 5 weeks 480 M/Solids Dean Cook 027 243 1429 Agonline ref: 9906

177- 2-8yr VIC Jersey Cows BW 115

RA 95% DTC 4/7 I/C LIC Kiwi X 5 Weeks A1 A2 content - owned 50yrs Shaan Featherstone 027 666 1198 Agonline ref: 9714

SHIRE®

Catalogue of rams available. See link below: http://www.organic-rams.co.nz/images/2021RamCatalogue-07Mar2021.pdf

Other

•

RA 95% DTC 18/7 I/C LIC Frsn 5.5 weeks

BW 138

Wiltshire Stud established 1987 • SHIRE® Stud discovered 1998

Sheep

DTC 18/7 I/C LIC 3.5 weeks - Farm sold

BW 162

Tested Rams

For further information or to view contact Stephen Jack on 027 280 5468 Glenflora Hillender Or go to

Cattle

160 Jsy Jsy X Cows

Provides xbred growers the opportunity to dial down their Wool Micron whilst maintaining Meat, fertility and easy care traits.

Tuesday, 16 March 2021 7.30pm Waldheim Wiltshires Breeding Stock Sale

Livestock advertising?

• Ideal for hogget mating

Sign up to AgriHQ’s free upcoming saleyard notifications to find what’s on offer before sale day. Choose which sale yards you want to follow and find out the number and class of stock being entered at the next sale.

(Sell End of March) Please call with enquiries

CHAROLLAIS RAMS

Stay ahead of the rest

STOCK FOR SALE

LK0106346©

Here at Farmers Weekly we get some pretty funny contributions to our Sale Talk joke from you avid readers, and we’re keen to hear more!

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

PW 127

$1,380+GST

•

Current Somatics 59k after 3rd Herd Test & averaged last year 335 milk solids per cow in a very dry year with half the season on OAD. Rec anc% 41 Calving start 19 Jul 2021

Peter Forrest 027 598 6153 Agonline ref: 9928

93 High Indice, Capital Stock, Crossbred InCalf Heifers BW 206

PW 232

$1,650+GST

•

RA 100% Grand Opportunity to buy high indice, InCalf Crossbred Heifers, Capital Stock & with over 50 years of LIC breeding behind them. Calving start 01 Aug 2021

Peter Forrest 027 598 6153 Agonline ref: 8875

WAIROA CATTLE SALE, THURSDAY, 25TH MARCH 2021, 11AM PGG Wrightson will offer a top yarding of beef cattle including opening tallies of approx 1210 Cattle. Consisting of: 350 R3yr Strs 560 R2yr Strs 300 R2yr Hfrs A/c Rangimoe Station 300 R3yr Ang & Ang/Here Strs 40 R2yr Ang & Ang/Here Hfrs (x Waimaha & Marewa Stns) A/c Papuni Station 200 R2yr Ang & Ang/Here Strs 30 R2yr Ang & Ang/Here Hfrs A/c Kouhauroa Station 100 R2yr Ang & Ang/Here Strs 80 R2yr Ang & Ang/Here Hfrs A/c Karamu Ltd 80 R2yr Sth Dev/Ang/Hfd Strs 70 R2yr Sth Dev/Ang/Hfd Hfrs

A/c Roscommon 40 R2yr Ang Strs Grand opportunity to purchase exceptionally well bred lines of hill country station bred cattle. Upcoming East Coast Weaner Sales: Matawhero Wnr Steers Tuesday, 30th March 2021, 11am Matawhero Wnr Hfr & Older Cattle Wednesday, 31st March 2021, 11am Wairoa Weaner Sale Thursday, 8th April 2021, 11am Enquiries to: Ian Rissetto..............027 4449 347 06 838 8604 Mason Birrell ..........027 4967 253 06 838 7091 Jamie Hayward......027 4347 586

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

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FARMERS WEEKLY – March 15, 2021

MARKET SNAPSHOT

Market Snapshot brought to you by the AgriHQ analysts.

Mel Croad

Suz Bremner

Reece Brick

Nicola Dennis

Sarah Friel

Caitlin Pemberton

Deer

Sheep

Cattle BEEF

SHEEP MEAT

VENISON

Last week

Prior week

Last year

NI Steer (300kg)

5.00

4.80

NI lamb (17kg)

6.50

6.90

NI Stag (60kg)

5.20

7.60

NI Bull (300kg)

5.00

4.85

NI mutton (20kg)

5.10

5.00

4.60

SI Stag (60kg)

5.35

5.40

7.60

NI Cow (200kg)

3.50

3.45

3.35

SI lamb (17kg)

6.25

6.20

6.80

SI Steer (300kg)

4.50

4.60

SI mutton (20kg)

5.00

5.15

4.10

SI Bull (300kg)

4.50

4.65

Export markets (NZ$/kg)

SI Cow (200kg)

3.25

3.35

3.20

UK CKT lamb leg

10.65

9.99

10.90

US imported 95CL bull

7.51

7.48

7.29

US domestic 90CL cow

7.51

7.07

7.92

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

Export markets (NZ$/kg)

6.50

$/kg CW

8.0

4.00 South Island steer slaughter price

6.50 $/kg CW

10.0 South Island lamb slaughter price

Oct

(NZ$/kg)

Dec 5-yr ave

Feb

Dairy

Aug 2020-21

Apr 2019-20

Jun

Aug 2020-21

Last week

Prior week

Last year

2.39

2.30

2.51

$/tonne

WMP

4325

4320

3500

SMP

2835

2830

2825

Feb-20

4140

4100

4050

Butter

3500

3460

3430

Jun-20

Aug-20

Oct-20

Dec-20

Feb-21

7.71

7.61

400

7.33

390

380

Feb-20

WMP FUTURES - VS FOUR WEEKS AGO

Apr-20

Jun-20

Aug-20

Oct-20

Dec-20

Feb-21

WAIKATO PALM KERNEL

5000 4000 $/tonne

3000 2000 1000

787

Company

YTD High

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corporation Ltd

28.95

36.21

27.1

Meridian Energy Limited (NS)

5.68

9.94

5.06

Auckland International Airport Limited

7.1

7.99

6.65

4.54

4.97

4.52

Mercury NZ Limited (NS)

5.88

7.6

5.79

Ryman Healthcare Limited

15.65

15.99

14.5

The a2 Milk Company Limited

9.55

12.5

8.92

69.98

64.85

Fletcher Building Limited

6.82

6.88

5.67

Contact Energy Limited

7.09

11.16

6.6

Listed Agri Shares

5pm, close of market, Thursday

Company

YTD High

YTD Low

ArborGen Holdings Limited

0.172

0.195

0.161

The a2 Milk Company Limited

9.55

12.5

8.92

Comvita Limited

3.21

3.48

3.1

Delegat Group Limited

14.91

15.4

13.75

5.15

4.35

Foley Wines Limited

1.71

2.07

1.68

Livestock Improvement Corporation Ltd (NS)

0.96

0.81

Marlborough Wine Estates Group Limited

0.55

0.65

0.44

New Zealand King Salmon Investments Ltd

1.46

1.72

1.43

PGG Wrightson Limited

3.26

3.65

3.11

Rua Bioscience Limited

0.44

0.61

0.43

Sanford Limited (NS)

4.74

5.23

4.3

Scales Corporation Limited

4.36

5.09

4.35 4.66

Seeka Limited

4.82

5.04

400

Synlait Milk Limited (NS)

3.73

5.24

3.35

T&G Global Limited

2.99

2.88

350

S&P/NZX Primary Sector Equity Index

14322

15491

14302

S&P/NZX 50 Index

12272

13558

12085

S&P/NZX 10 Index

12087

13978

11776

300 250

Apr May Latest price

Jun

Jul 4 weeks ago

Aug

YTD Low

Spark New Zealand Limited

Fonterra Shareholders' Fund (NS)

395

385

* price as at close of business on Thursday

0 Mar

Apr-20

405

$/tonne

AMF

869

Mainfreight Limited

CANTERBURY FEED BARLEY vs 4 weeks ago

891

Top 10 by Market Cap

390

380

Mar-21

Prior week

314

DAP

385

Last price*

567

305

3.35

6.00

DAIRY FUTURES (US$/T)

637

305

2.40

395

Nov-20 Jan-21 Sept. 2022

637

7.00

Milk Price

Aug 2020-21

Urea

30 micron lamb

400

Nearby contract

Jun

Last year

2.40

7.50

Jul-20 Sep-20 Sept. 2021

Apr 2019-20

Prior week

2.15

405

May-20

Feb

Last week

2.30

CANTERBURY FEED WHEAT

6.50

NZ average (NZ$/t)

37 micron ewe

8.00

Mar-20

Dec

Fertiliser Super

Grain

Data provided by

MILK PRICE FUTURES

5.50

Oct

FERTILISER

Coarse xbred ind. 2019-20

7.0

5-yr ave

4.50 Jun

8.0

5.0

WOOL

Apr

9.0

6.0

5.00

Feb

South Island stag slaughter price

11.0

5.50

5-yr ave

$/kg MS

5.0

7.0

5.0

Dec

7.0

6.0

6.00

Oct

8.0

$/kg CW

4.50

9.0

6.0

7.0

9.0

Last year

10.0

8.0

5.00

Last week Prior week

North Island stag slaughter price

11.0

5.0

5.50

US$/t

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

6.0

6.00

4.00

Last year

North Island lamb slaughter price

9.0 $/kg CW

North Island steer slaughter price

Last week Prior week

$/kg CW

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

William Hickson

Ingrid Usherwood

200

Feb-20

S&P/FW PRIMARY SECTOR EQUITY

Apr-20

Jun-20

Aug-20

Oct-20

Dec-20

Feb-21

14322

S&P/NZX 50 INDEX

12272

S&P/NZX 10 INDEX

12087

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

Pulse

WEATHER Soil Moisture

We’re seeing more cooler nights in the mix as the nights continue to get longer. The Autumn Equinox is this coming Saturday at precisely 10:37pm. Equinox means equal day and night length but as we get to the end of March, the nights will be longer than the days. Weather-wise it’s quite settled in New Zealand at the moment, with a burst of heavy rain on the West Coast – mainly Fiordland/ South Westland – and a little will spillover into Southland, populated parts of the West Coast and a little out east through the mountains. But for the most part, everyone in the North Island and those in the eastern South Island are leaning drier than average this week.

Watchful eye on the US markets

11/03/2021

Source: NIWA Data

Highlights

Wind

A bit breezy to kick off this week with a northerly quarter flow tumbling down over NZ – nor’easter in the north, nor’wester in the south. A cooler southerly change on Tuesday eases by Wednesday and easterlies may return to the north, although, nothing overly strong.

Highlights/ Extremes

Temperature Some cooler nights and mornings, especially with the cooler change coming back in again around Tuesday/Wednesday in the South Island. Milder weather returns towards the weekend.

14-day outlook

High pressure is dominating New Zealand for the next couple of weeks, but we’re still seeing some low pressure systems around the country worth monitoring. This week kicks off with mild subtropical winds and West Coast rain – then a cooler southerly change on Tuesday, which fades out over the North Island on Wednesday with perhaps a couple showers. More high pressure is likely this weekend and next week. A low in the Tasman Sea this weekend should be pushed westwards to Aussie by the big high over NZ.

Drier than average for most of the North Island and the northern, eastern and southern sides of the South Island. Facial eczema spore counts expected to rise or be elevated this week. Expect some West Coast rain.

7-day rainfall forecast

100

200

400

Showers still linger around Gisborne and East Cape this week, but totals are low. A few isolated showers may also move into Northland and Bay of Plenty as the easterly flow kicks back in. But the bulk of the rain will be on the West Coast this week, before the next big high rolls in on Wednesday and through the weekend. Except the West Coast, most of NZ leans drier than normal this week. A rainmaker in the Tasman Sea may be worth monitoring.

Weather brought to you in partnership with weatherwatch.co.nz

2.8 2.4 2.0 1.6 Oct

Packaged in a bite-sized e-newsletter, My Daily Digest contains the biggest stories and key developments of the day.

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are seasonally low, lessens the ability for imported prices to fully benefit from higher returns when our own supplies start to pick up. NZ beef exports to the US peak through May and June, coinciding with the influx of cull dairy cows here and stronger market demand in the US. Season-to-date, the national cow kill is marginally lower than both last season and the five-year average. However, an increasing dairy payout here and little evidence of expanding dairy cow numbers in recent years will potentially limit the flow of cull cows in autumn too. Invariably, most will be looking to maximise returns in the new milking season, limiting the depth of culling. Even if dry autumn weather persists, it’s likely to only push a few extra cows into the processors. Regardless of how this key supply period plays out domestically, the US imported beef market is facing a restricted supply of lean beef over the rest of 2021. Forecasts are pegging a 20% reduction, most of this driven by a lack of Australian beef. The US relies on lean imported beef to blend with fattier fed-cattle trim, to create the perfect hamburger formulation. While Brazil and Argentina are now able to access the US imported beef market, there has yet to be any solid expansion from these markets. The US will effectively have to “buy” South American meat away from China to shore up supplies within the US market. And they have been far from successful to date. A strong summer grilling season in the US, combined with already tight imported beef supplies, should be the catalyst for further increases in imported beef prices. The upside could be gradual given the already high position of imported beef prices, but regardless, this could pay dividends for the already depressed bull beef market in the months ahead.

US imported 95CL (US$/lb)

3.2

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Mel Croad mel.croad@globalhq.co.nz

HE US imported beef market attracts plenty of attention from New Zealand bull beef farmers. Many know the market inside and out given the influence it has on farm gate bull and cow prices. The US takes over 30% of NZ’s total beef exports, having regained some market share that was earlier snatched by China. Of this beef, 80% that heads to the US is classed as manufacturing beef. This market not only underpins bull and manufacturing cow prices, but also provides a secondary influence to prime beef prices. Despite an uncertain global beef trade over the last 12 months, the US imported beef market has performed well, with prices tracking above year earlier levels since the new year. In the six weeks to mid-February, US imported 95CL lifted 27c/lb to peak at US$2.54/lb. Driving prices higher was the lack of imported beef arriving in the US. Australian beef exports to the US are a fraction of normal levels. This lack of product created concern among US end-users, causing imported prices to start rallying significantly earlier than normal. However, a severe late-winter storm at the end of February derailed the upside in prices, as the industry dealt with widespread logistical and production disruptions. Currently, the imported 95CL price is averaging US$2.44/lb. Softer trading conditions that have developed since the storms are considered timely. Typically prices don’t rally until April, allowing demand to develop naturally as the US gears up for peak spring grilling season. An inflated market now, when supplies

Hundreds

Overview

Dec 5-yr ave

Feb

2019-20

Apr

Jun 2020-21

Aug

Source: AgriHQ

Oct

SALE YARD WRAP

Lambs, weaners coming forward There’s been a slight uptick in yard activity lately. North Island weaner fairs have had more positives than negatives, though the market is only just finding its level. The autumn lamb trade is getting underway, with growing sales in both islands. Prices have mainly been in the same ballpark as the week prior, with hints of a lift in places. NORTHLAND Wellsford weaner steer fair • Top Angus steers, 305-326kg, improved to $1020-$1040 • Top Angus and Angus-Hereford, 321-340kg, fetched $1015-$1040 • Charolais, 230-275kg, lifted to $775-$910 • Heavier top-quality Hereford-Friesian, 281-329kg, realised $840$1075 Buyers filled the maximum current capacity with just under 100 people in the rostrum at WELLSFORD last Monday for their weaner steer fair. Buyers came from far and wide with annual lines very well contested and most traded at improved levels. Angus steers, 188-303kg, lifted to $635-$950 as did Angus and Angus-Hereford, 247278kg, up to $855-$970, and lighter, 176-188kg, $585-$640. Charolais, 176-188kg, held at $640-$660. Most Hereford steers weighed in at 188-229kg and strengthened to $650$770, better Hereford beef-cross, 224-270kg, also improved to $725-$890. Most Hereford-Friesian, 102-220kg, returned $505-$695. Read more in your LivestockEye.

COUNTIES Tuakau sales • Hereford-Friesian steers, 352kg, sold strongly at $2.98/kg • Prime Angus-Friesian steers, 610kg, made $2.69/kg • Medium beef cows earned $1.69-$1.74/kg • Heavy prime ewes reached $167 Prices firmed by 5c/kg for a yarding of 500 store cattle at TUAKAU last week, PGG Wrightson agent Craig Reiche reported. Good Hereford-Friesian and Charolais steers, 414-442kg, made $2.68/kg, while 209kg Hereford fetched $680 and 172kg Hereford-Friesian, $620. Hereford-Friesian heifers, 408kg, returned $2.64/kg and 279kg Angus-Friesian, $710. Hereford-Friesian weaner heifers, 193kg, made $595. Heavy prime steers traded at $2.56-$2.69/kg on Wednesday and medium $2.43-$2.56/kg. Heavy heifers managed $2.50-$2.62/kg, with medium at $2.40-$2.50/kg and heavy beef cows, $1.74/kg to $1.98/kg. Well-conditioned Friesian cows realised $1.56/kg to $1.76/ kg, with medium boners at $1.46-$1.56/kg and light, $1.10/ kg to $1.46/kg. Prime lambs returned $120-$139 on Monday and stores ranged from $60 to $118. Heavy ewes managed $150-$167 and medium, $120-$150.

WAIKATO Frankton cattle 9.3 • R2 Hereford-Friesian heifers, 423kg, held at $2.40/kg • Weaner Friesian bulls, 127kg, traded at $310 A small yarding of 126 store cattle was penned by PGG Wrightson at FRANKTON last Tuesday. R2 heifers were mostly empty Friesian and Friesian-cross, 310-350kg, and sold up to $1.84-$1.90/kg, while 280-292kg, managed $1.47$1.59/kg. Weaner Hereford-Friesian steers, 157kg, firmed to $505, while lighter Friesian bulls, 118-147kg, eased to $325-$330. Better prime heifers, 453kg, held at $2.43/kg, as did Hereford-Friesian cows, 310kg, at $1.45/kg. Boner cows, 403-557kg, were steady at $1.36-$1.41/kg. Read more in your LivestockEye. Frankton cattle, 10.3 • Four R2 Hereford-dairy steers, 431kg, topped their section at $2.53/kg • R2 Hereford heifers, 340kg, managed $2.47/kg • Weaner Hereford heifers, 151-177kg, were well contested at $605-$665 An increased store cattle yarding of 314 head was presented last Wednesday by New Zealand Farmers Livestock. Weaners accounted for 75% of that tally and Hereford-Friesian steers, 175kg, sold well at $590. Murray Grey heifers, 118-172kg, fetched $390-$465, with HerefordFriesian, 145-159kg, at $450-$475. Bulls made up the lion’s share of this section and Hereford, 143-240kg, realised $505-$660, while eight Murray Grey, 193kg, pushed to $810. Beef-dairy, 118-160kg, returned, $408-$455. Friesian, 135181kg, earned $350-$490. Cows and heifers filled the prime pens and In-calf Hereford cows, 515-576kg, fetched $1.86-$1.93/kg, while 30 at 475kg pushed to $2.48/kg. Murray-Grey, 465kg-501kg,

realised $1.89/kg to $2.12/kg, Hereford heifers, 506535kg, realised $2.53-$2.54/kg. Read more in your LivestockEye.

KING COUNTRY Te Kuiti sale • Store ewe lambs sold at $70-$85 • Two-tooth to 4-year ewes earned $159 • Autumn-born weaner Angus steers, 330-358kg, made $1045$1060 • Spring-born weaner Charolais, 288-292kg, traded at $900-$1015 • Weaner Hereford bulls, 280kg, earned $900 Prime lambs sold on par to the previous sale at TE KUITI last Wednesday with heavy types at $120-$130 and medium $100-$115. Please note last week store lambs sold at $106 not $126. This week store lambs eased with wethers at $89$102. Heavy prime ewes sold at $140-$170 and medium $120-$135. Local buyers were joined by Taranaki and Manawatu buyers for weaner steers and bulls. Weaner steers around 180-220kg traded around the $680-$875 mark, with 220300kg mostly $860-$900. Charolais and Simmental bulls, 240-260kg, fetched $795-$805. Heifers around the 170200kg mark typically sold at $460-$600. Those at 300kg and up realised $600-$650. Charolais, 180kg, made the top money in the heifer market at $770.

BAY OF PLENTY Rangiuru cattle and sheep • Prime Angus and Angus-Friesian steers, 600-632kg, fetched $2.54-$2.58/kg • R3 Angus-Friesian steers, 414-498kg, sold well at $2.55/kg • R2 Hereford-Friesian, 272kg, stretched to $2.72/kg • Prime lambs generally made $100-$160 There was something for everyone at RANGIURU last Tuesday. In the R2 pens Hereford-Friesian was the dominant type with the top cut 338-386kg steers and heifers that fetched $2.55-$2.66/kg. Second tier pens were largely $2.41-$2.49/kg with the balance mostly Angus heifers, 253-275kg, that traded at $2.23-$2.29/kg. In the prime pens 520-535kg Friesian cows averaged $1.72/kg with the remainder mostly 475-505kg at $1.53/kg. Read more in your LivestockEye.

POVERTY BAY Matawhero cattle fair • The R2 traditional steer average improved to $2.89/kg • R2 traditional heifers, 305kg, made $2.72/kg • R2 Hereford bulls, 455-465kg, sold at $2.80-$2.88/kg The market at the MATAWHERO cattle fair last Tuesday varied and some lighter types from the coast had to meet the market. R3 steers mostly traded at $2.49/kg to $2.68/kg, and a handful of 465kg R3 heifers returned $2.39/kg. Angus weaner steers improved with 220kg up to $585, and five, 315kg, were able to achieve $800. Exotic steers were split, 170kg earned $495, while 220kg sold to $600. Read more in your LivestockEye. Matawhero sheep • Store Wilstshire ewe lambs sold at $100-$138 • Mixed-age Romney store ewes made $109-$140 • Heavy prime ewes earned $173 with medium $130-$138 • Shorn prime mixed-sex, mixed-age sheep realised $186 The top end of the store male lambs earned $97-$101 with the balance at $80-$93.50. Ewe lambs fetched $70$97.50. Heavy prime lambs realised $145-$150 with medium $125-$130. Read more in your LivestockEye.

TARANAKI Taranaki cattle fair • R3 heifers mostly earned $2.30-$2.36/kg • R2 Angus and Charolais heifers, 338-469kg, realised $2.54-$2.62/ kg • Weaner Angus steers traded at $550 • Weaner traditional and Hereford-Friesian heifers fetched $465$505. It was a mostly local buying bench at the TARANAKI cattle fair last Wednesday, though there was some

representation from Manawatu. Some R3 steers were of lighter weights for their age and sold appropriately with most around the $2.50/kg mark. A large portion of R2 steers performed well with the bulk at $2.64-$2.74/kg. Read more in your LivestockEye.

HAWKE’S BAY Stortford Lodge prime cattle and sheep • The small number of heavy ewes offered lifted to $151 • Good ewes held at $117-$137 • Top ram lambs reached $149.50 Just 317 sheep were penned at STORTFORD LODGE last Monday. Ewes made up over 90% of that tally, very good ewes accounted for almost 60% of the offering and strengthened to $140.50-$158.50. Good types fetched $117$137 and light-medium to medium types also improved up to $101-$116, with light ewes steady at $75. Just four lamb pens were presented. Heavy ram lambs improved to $128. Seven good mixed-sex lambs softened to $100-$117. There were no cattle offered today. Read more in your LivestockEye. Stortford Lodge store cattle and sheep • R2 Friesian bulls, 410kg, fetched $990, $2.41/kg • R2 Angus heifers, 435kg, realised $980, $2.25/kg • Good ram lambs lifted to $109.50 • Good ewe lambs improved to $102 A very small cattle offering was presented at STORTFORD LODGE last Wednesday with just 57 cattle penned. Weaner Angus heifers were consistent on a $/kg basis with all 128-223kg, returning $2.58/kg, $330-$575 and same breed bulls, 270kg, managed $780. Two lines of Hereford-Friesian bulls, 219-235kg, were well contested at $645-$725. With just a handful of ewe pens and limited lambs on offer, competition increased, lifting results for most. Light male lambs lifted to $94.50, with similar weighted ewe lambs up to $81-$83. A pen of very good 2-tooth Coopworth reached $147, with a small pen of heavy mixed-age Romneys close on their tails at $144. The remainder traded at $106-$133. Read more in your LivestockEye.

MANAWATU Feilding prime cattle and sheep • Hereford-Friesian cows, 556kg, returned $1.90/kg • Top ewes fetched $128-$160 Another small yarding presented at FEILDING last Monday. Heavy lambs earned $131-$161 while mediumgood lines fetched $109-$125. Medium good ewes realised $116-$126. Half of the cattle were lower tier Friesian cows, 465-560kg, that earned $1.41-$1.54/kg. Hereford-Friesian cows, 556kg, made $1.90/kg. A single 670kg Murray Grey bull topped the sale at $2.60/kg while a 510kg compatriot sold for $2.44/kg. Read more in your LivestockEye. Feilding store sale • R3 traditional steers, 570-630kg, were $2.70-$2.85/kg • R2 South Devon-cross steers, 400-425kg, made $2.80-$2.90/kg • R2 Charolais-cross and Hereford heifers, 490-545kg, were $2.60$2.65/kg • Store male lamb averaged lifted to $113.50 • Store ewe lamb averaged lifted to $104.50 The 500 store cattle sold to a steady market at FEILDING relative to the mainly good-quality on offer. R3 HerefordFriesian steers, 560-635kg, were $2.55-$2.60/kg, while 450kg R2 Charolais-cross steers were $2.80/kg. Almost all 370485kg heifers were $2.45-$2.55/kg irrespective of breed or age. A pen of 225kg traditional weaner steers were $3.25/ kg while 180kg Hereford-Friesian steers were $570, $3.20/ kg. A yarding of 11,500 store lambs was strongly supported from front-to-back. The market narrowed considerably through the male lambs – the very top-end were $120-$125, good lambs $115-$120, medium pens $105-$115 with very few light lines on offer. Mixed-sex and ewe lambs sold to a similar level, that is $105-$115 for good lines, $95-$105 for mediums and the rest mainly $75-$85. A good pen of twotooth ewes made $204. Read more in your LivestockEye. Rongotea cattle • R3 Hereford-Friesian heifers, 393kg, fetched $2.31/kg

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021

$2.70/kg and $2.75/kg • Prime steers over 500kg mostly earned $2.34/kg to $2.49/kg • Prime heifers, 500-575kg, fetched $2.26-$2.38/kg • R2 Angus steers, 374kg, returned $2.53/kg Store lambs came from a wide catchment area into the CANTERBURY PARK last Tuesday. Heavy store lambs largely earned $91-$111 with medium pens $73-$88. Close to 90% of the prime lambs sold from $100-$148 while heavy pens made $153-$180. A handful of top ewes stretched to $248-$286 with the remainder of heavy types at $167-$228 and the bulk of the tally $111-$166. On Wednesday a store cattle sale was held. R2 Hereford-Friesian steers, 398-406kg, earned $2.14-$2.22/ kg while second cuts, 253-294kg, traded for $1.94-$1.99/ kg. The top heifers made similar money to the steers with traditional lines, 330-380kg, priced at $2.11-$2.16/kg. Read more in your LivestockEye. Coalgate cattle and sheep • One prime Limousin steer, 500kg, fetched $2.66/kg • Other quality steers over 500kg were priced at $2.36-$2.45/kg • Top store lambs earned $114-$118 A mixed-quality yarding of cattle was penned at COALGATE last Thursday. Many of the R3 and R2 pens sold for less than $2/kg but exceptions included R2 Herefordcross steers, 383-426kg, and 400kg Angus heifers that sold for $2.05-$2.15/kg. A handful of weaner Angus-Friesian steers and heifers, 260-271kg, fetched $430-$460, but the main highlight was nearly 50 Jersey bulls, 164-189kg, that realised $425-$430. Most store lambs traded at $72-$103 while prime lambs were predominantly lighter types at $100-$138, however a small top end reached $152-$170. Ewes were evenly spread out from $155-$188 for the most part with a few very heavy pens at $219 and $270. Read more in your LivestockEye.

SOUTH-CANTERBURY Temuka prime cattle and all sheep • High yielding steers over 500kg fetched $2.30-$2.40/kg • Angus heifers, 490-645kg, earned $2.35-$2.42kg The cattle pens were top heavy with dairy cows and heifers at TEMUKA last Monday. Heavy Friesian, 600-690kg, achieved $1.40-$1.50/kg while the lion’s share were 500520kg Friesian that mostly earned $1.26-$1.34/kg. Most heifers were lighter 300-400kg dairy breeds and generally traded for $1.10/kg to $1.30/kg. Top end mixed sex store lambs fetched $108-$119 while medium types made $83-$96 and halfbred lambs again made up a significant portion of the tally. Top prime lambs returned $140-$167 with the balance $100-$139. Medium prime ewes traded at $90-$147 while heavy types sold up to $202. Read more in your LivestockEye. FUZZ HUDDLE: Halfbred wether lambs at Temuka, which sold for $107.

OTAGO • R2 Hereford-Friesian steers, 260kg, made $2.69/kg • Weaner Hereford-Friesian steers and bulls, 169-175kg, traded at $500-$550 • Weaner heifers fetched $450-$505 • Friesian boner cows, 469-569kg, sold at $1.30-$1.36/kg A good sprinkling of rain last week encouraged more buyers to RONGOTEA last Tuesday, New Zealand Farmers Livestock agent Darryl Harwood reported. R3 HerefordFriesian steers, 366-585kg, ranged from $2.31/kg to $2.65/ kg. R2 Hereford-Friesian bulls, 298kg, made $2.22/kg with 263-323kg heifers up to $2.47/kg.

WAIRARAPA Masterton weaner fair • Top Simmental-Angus weaner bulls made $1215 • Traditional weaner steers averaged $780 • Exotic weaner steers averaged $875 • Traditional weaner heifers averaged $550

• Exotic weaner heifers averaged $595 A yarding of 2100 head filled the opening MASTERTON weaner fair for the season, the first cattle sale back at the yards in a year. Exotic bulls –Simmental-cross, Charolaiscross and Belgian Blue-cross – were somewhat sticky selling, about half making $680-$900, with an even spread falling either side. Outside interest meant the steers had a solid sale. A few large pens of top cuts were $950-$1130, but $780-$915 covered most of the better-half, followed by $640-$735 for below-average types and $530-$610 for the bottom-end. It was tougher on the heifers though, with topend cuts at $690-$810, the core of the above-average lines $570-$645 and basically all the lighter-than-average types making $400-$520.

CANTERBURY Canterbury Park prime cattle and all sheep; store cattle • Prime Charolais and Speckle Park steers, 555kg and 550kg, made

Balclutha sheep • Heavy prime ewes made $140-$160, medium $120-$130 and light $80-$100 Prime lambs eased at BALCLUTHA last Wednesday with heavy types at $130-$145, medium $110-$125 and light $90-$100. Store lambs had good demand, with a premium paid for shorn lambs. The top end made $90-$98, medium $75-$85 and light $65-$70.

SOUTHLAND Lorneville sheep • Top store lambs fetched $95-$105 with medium at $80-$90 and light $75-$80 • Local trade rams held at $50 Heavy prime lambs earned $125-$138 at LORNEVILLE last Tuesday with medium at $114-$124 and light $102$111. Heavy prime ewes made $152-$190, medium $124-$140 and light $109-$123.

Where livestock market insights begin LivestockEye • • • •

LivestockEye reports provide full sale results and informed commentary and is emailed directly after the sale. The most comprehensive and independent sale report you can get your hands on. Only AgriHQ sample-weighs store lambs to give you $/kg LW benchmark pricing. Choose from 10 sale yards across the country or check out our other popular reports.

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Markets

52 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – March 15, 2021 NI COW

NI MUTTON

SI LAMB

($/KG)

3.50

5.10

6.25

MEDIUM STORE MIXED-SEX AND EWE LAMBS AT TEMUKA ($/HD)

90-102

high $2.80 - $2.92 $3.15 - $3.35 traditional and exotic- Weaner traditional and lights R2 exotic steers, 270-325kg, cross steers, 365-485kg, at Matawhero

Weaner steers in demand up north Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz

WEEK of weaner cattle fairs in Northland started well and built momentum in the larger yardings in the sale yards further north. Agents report a majority of calves sold in the range $3-$3.30/kg liveweight and that price level was maintained during the week as the yardings grew bigger. Carrfields agent Rueben Wright says his home sale at Peria in the Far North was notable for a yarding of 2364 steers, bulls and heifers, half of which came from his company’s clients. The top cut of autumn-born steers reached $1140 and the top of the spring-born calves was $1000. A big offering of 300 Simmental bull calves weighing up to 320kg sold in the range of $950-$1080 at $3.20-$3.50/kg. Wright says local buyers were supplemented by those who travelled up from Waikato, Gisborne and South Auckland and all pens were sold. PGG Wrightson Northland livestock manager Bernie McGahan says bigger lines of well-bred and reared calves sold freely in the Peria and Kaikohe yards. “Breeders are using top genetics and bulls and are bringing forward very good weaners for these sales,” McGahan said. “In terms of demand, we are lacking the traditional numbers of buyers from further south but this summer has been so much better than last year, and the calves showed that.” Kaikohe PGG Wrightson agent Vaughan Vujcich says 1580 calves were yarded and the top cut of traditional Simmental, Charolais and Angus steers, weighing 280-320kg, sold in the range

DUE DILIGENCE: Intending purchasers look over the pens of weaner steers in a small yarding at the Kauri sale yards, Whangarei.

$3.10-$3.25/kg. The price range per head was $880-$1040. The medium weights made the same price per kilogram and were worth $760-$900. Lighter calves at 230-250kg were harder to sell and did not make any improvement on the liveweight price range $3-$3.20/kg. Earlier in the week, autumn-born Charolais-cross steers topped the Kauri weaner steer fair when the second pen fetched $1115 for 13 and the first pen $1065 for seven. A third pen of 14, with the same breeding from Titoki Downs, made $830. In the 500-cattle yarding, containing a majority of spring-born steers, the top price was $940 for 14 whitefaces, followed by $920 for 13 Angus. The bigger lots of more soughtafter weaned calves with traditional breeding sold in the range $750-$900, while the exotics were a level down in price.

Vendor A Baker put up several pens of Maine Anjou steers and they sold in the range of $650-$750. Simmental-cross steers made $820 for a pen of six and Charolais-cross weaners born in the spring were worth $790 to $810. Talk along the rails was about the losses of dairy and beef farms in the north to horticulture and other alternative land-uses. While this cuts into the numbers of cattle going through sale yards, values for weaners were expected to be up on last year because of much better growing conditions over the summer compared with 2019-20. McGahan says Northland was losing cattle to pine trees, avocados and kiwifruit and to vegetable growing and in five years time the yardings at feature fairs would be fewer numbers, but of higher quality.

Wellsford steer weaner fair, see page 50.

at Wellsford

ACROSS THE RAILS SARAH FRIEL

Strong buying for South Island store lambs ANXIETY over weather conditions, slaughter price trajectories and overseas markets has been palpable throughout most NZ store markets. This has kept demand subdued and, in some instances, vendors have not been willing to meet the market. The South Island lamb market is bucking this trend, as prices have been consistent over the past four weeks. Throughout February and into March, South Island store lambs have been trading for $2.90-$3.05/kg in the paddock, despite farm gate prices reducing by 20c/kg in those five weeks. This can be attributed to cropping farmers’ buying patterns for later born store lambs to control ryegrass, which could be offloaded as late as November, when historically higher farm gate prices allow for stronger margins. Normally, cropping farmers would enter the market earlier, however a wetter January kept them at bay but gave traders more confidence in the market. Because of this, the South Island store lamb market has had consistent backing through summer. North Island store lamb prices have been varying by comparison to the South Island. Over the past five weeks 32-35kg males have sold for $2.70-$3.10/ kg. The top-end price has often dipped to $3/kg, and North Island buyers have started to favour lighter options as farm gate prices weaken and short-term buys become less attractive. In addition to softening farm gate prices, hot weather has been another commonality across the islands. Dry conditions have been sustained for some time now and soil moisture levels are low in most regions. This is playing into North Island traders’ decision-making process on new lambs. However, South Island buyers remain undeterred and successfully absorbed a higher volume of lambs the past two weeks at Temuka, Canterbury Park and Balclutha. Overall, while strength and consistency in South Island store lamb prices does not align with the market forces at play, it is usual for the South Island to lead the market at this time of year. Based on fiveyear average prices for February, we would expect a 10c/kg lead in South Island prices. sarah.friel@gllobalhq.co.nz

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KR-LA10095

KR-LA10094

$10950 +GST

$10950

$8095

+GST

$5895 +GST

REAR SETS

LED INSPECTION LIGHT

LED WIRELESS LIGHT SET

LED NUMBER PLATE LIGHT

LED REAR LIGHT

12/24v – “Dynamic” – magnetic

12v – magnetic

12/24v – Red

KR-LA60025

KR-LA41001

Stop / tail / indicator, Ø140mm – 12/24v

KR-LA60035

$21050

$16495

+GST

$27 50

+GST

150mm

KR-LA10KR

$1095

KR-LA40011

+GST

$57 50

+GST

LED LIGHT BAR 81w – 302mm – Combi beam

LED LIGHT BAR

$5195

KR-LA10301

300w – 1320mm curved – Combi beam

+GST

KR-LA10310

$33695 +GST

ADAPTORS ADAPTOR PLUG

7 PIN PLUG PVC

KR-KRLA403011P001

13 Pin / 7 pin

KR-KRLA404033P001

$1550 +GST

7 PIN SOCKET PVC

KR-KRLA403011P001

$650

+GST

$995 +GST

FIND US ON

3.5M SPIRAL CABLE C/W 7 pin plugs

KR-KRLA404063P001

$8850

/PARTSDIRECTNZ

+GST

1313

P ESToO ON n ti lu o S

LINKAGE TRIANGLES

BLACKLINE LINKAGE TRIANGLE

QUICK-CHANGE FRAME Euro hook

$43695

KR-FT2065

CAT. 2

KR-TL150679KR

+GST

$39995 +GST

LINKAGE PARTS

COMPLETE ADATOR PLATE SET Euro hook

KR-FT2102

ELECTRIC FUEL PUMP

$121

95 +GST

Suitable for John Deere 5E, 5M, 5R, 6M, 6R series tractors.

KR-AL168483KR

$18995 +GST

WATER PUMP ADAPTOR PLATE SET L/R – EURO HOOK Euro hook

Suitable for Case-IH MXM series, Fiat M series, Ford New Holland 60, M, TM series tractors.

KR-87801641KR

$39250 +GST

KR-FT2101

$107 95 +GST

WATER PUMP Suitable for Ford New Holland 40, TS series tractors.

KR-87800714KR

$31050 +GST

HOOK REPAIR KIT

CAT. 2 CBM (Standard). Suitable for various Case-IH, Claas, DeutzFahr, John Deere, Landini, Massey Ferguson, McCormick, New Holland, Renault tractors.

KR-080135006

$8995 +GST

HOOK REPAIR KIT

CAT. 3 CBM (Light / Standard). Suitable for various Case-IH, Claas, Deutz-Fahr, Landini, Massey Ferguson, McCormick, New Holland, Renault tractors.

KR-080137006

$8995 +GST

HOOK REPAIR KIT

CAT.3 CBM (AGCO/MF/CLAAS). Suitable for various AGCO built, Claas, Massey Ferguson tractors.

KR-080138006

$9350 +GST

14 14

SHOP INSTORE OR ONLINE

www.partsdirect.farm

FUEL PUMP Suitable for Case-IH FARMALL, JX, JXU, MAXXUM, MXU, QUANTUM series, Claas NECTIS series, New Holland T4, T4000, T5000, T6000, TD5, TD5000, TLA, TNA, TSA series, Steyr 4000, COMPACT, PROFI series tractors.

KR-2830266KR

$5350 +GST

FUEL PUMP

Suitable for Case-IH C, CS, CX series, Landini, 30, 40, 60, 70, ADVANTAGE, BLIZZARD, GLOBUS, TREKKER series, Massey Ferguson 100, 200, 300, 3300, 4200, 4300, series, McCormick C, CX series tractors.

KR-2641808KR

$4250 +GST

FUEL PUMP Suitable for Massey Ferguson 35, 100, 200, 2100 series tractors.

KR-2641408KR

$5050 +GST

SPECIAL EDITION 2021/2022

TRACTOR PARTS

VARIOUS PARTS

MIRROR Suitable for Case-IH 200, 300, 3200, 4200, CX, MX, MXC, STEIGER, STX series, McCormick CX, MC, MTX, TTX, XTX, ZTX series, New Holland T8000 series tractors.

WHEEL SPINNER KNOB KR-WS200GP

$1050

$13495

KR-7132001

+GST

ALTERNATOR 14V 55A MAHLE

STARTER MOTOR 12V 3.2KW – 10 Teeth. Suitable for Massey Ferguson 6200, 6400 series tractors.

Suitable for Case-IH JXU series, Fiat 65, 66, 76, 80, 86, L series, Ford New Holland 35, L. TL series tractors.

KR-STA26171661

KR-IA0336

$70495

+GST

FUEL PUMP

HYDRAULIC TOPLINK KIT – CAT. 2

Suitable for Case-IH 5100, 5200 series tractors.

Suitable for Case-IH FARMALL, QUANTUM series, Claas ELIOS series, Fendt 200 VARIO series, John Deere 5M, 5R series, New Holland T4, T4000, TD4, TD4000 series tractors.

KR-TCVHN356330022

STABILISER CBM

KR-SLAA070HD

CAB FILTER

KR-J928143KR

+GST

LOCKABLE FUEL CAP WITH KEY Suitable for various Case-IH, DeutzFahr, Fendt, Fiat, Ford New Holland, John Deere, Massey Ferguson, McCormick, SAME tractors.

$3595

KR-AL113087N

$1276

50 +GST

Suitable for Case-IH JXU, MXM series, Fiat L, M series, Ford New Holland 35, 40, 60, L, M, T5000, TD, TD5000, TDD, TL, TLA, TM, TM7000, TS, TS6000 series, tractors.

KR-AW7821

$9050 +GST

$52150

Suitable for Deutz-Fahr AGROTRON M, MK3, NEW, TTV, SERIES 6, SERIES 7 series, SAME IRON series tractors.

$35195

$7995

+GST

PIVOT PIN ZF Suitable for Deutz-Fahr AGROTRON K, MK1, MK2, MK3, NEW series, Fendt FARMER 300/400, FAVORIT 500 series, John Deere 6000/6010/6020 series tractors and ZF APL2025, APL2035 axles.

$24295

KR-4475305212

+GST

SEAT COVER TRACTOR XL BLACK KR-SC60201

$8550

MEASURING JUG 5L C/W FLEXIBLE SPOUT

$1650

KR-41903GROZ

+GST

FILTERS OIL FILTER SPIN-ON DONALDSON KR-P550008

$1050 +GST

FUEL FILTER ELEMENT DONALDSON KR-P556245

$7 50 +GST

FIND US ON

/PARTSDIRECTNZ

1515

OUR DEALERSHIP

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09 438 9163

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SELECTION OF OUR BRANDS

WE CAN SUPPLY PARTS SUITABLE FOR:

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PLOUGH BOLTS LOADER & SILAGE TINES ACC. REAR/FRONT/POS. LIGHTING AXLE & BRAKE PARTS GRASS & FEEDING SILAGE WAGON & BALER KNIVES LINKAGE PARTS