Farmers Weekly NZ January 17 2022 by AgriHQ

6 Rewarding ag contributions Vol 20 No 1, January 17, 2022

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WIDESCREEN: Stock manager Leora Werner, Alastair and Graeme McKnight from Braeside in Central Otago’s Ida Valley, the setting for the awardwinning movie The Power of the Dog. Photo: Jan MacKenzie

Big country on the big screen Neal Wallace

neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz

HE owner of the Central Otago farm where part of the award-winning movie The Power of the Dog was set, sees it as a vote of confidence in the way the South Island high country has been managed. Parts of the western drama, based on the 1967 novel by Thomas Savage, were filmed on

Braeside in the Ida Valley and Hawkdun Range foothills in early 2020. The 5500ha property is run by Alastair McKnight, his wife Philippa Pope and his brother Graeme McKnight, the fourth generation of the family. The Otago tussock landscape depicted in the movie has received international praise and Alastair says the Dame Jane Campion-directed movie reflects how generations of farmers have sympathetically and responsibly managed the land. The movie, which stars Benedict

Cumberbatch and Kirsten Dunst, scooped two Golden Globe awards last week, with Campion named best director and the movie winning best picture. He says it was a random approach from a scene scout that kick-started five months of activity in a remote corner of his property. In October 2019 builders and tradesmen constructed the set and the following January hundreds of crew and actors began six weeks of filming. He was pleased the film crew employed local people and businesses.

“They came here because they wanted the landscape and they got that and also a very supportive community,” Alastair said. His cattle appear in the movie, but another scene requiring a larger number was shot near the Poolburn dam involving cattle from Ida Valley and Stonehenge stations. “We literally have to pinch ourselves, it’s hard to believe it happened here,” he said. “When the movie came out and we saw it, it was not just about our farm but the whole district.”

They came here because they wanted the landscape and they got that and also a very supportive community. Alastair McKnight Farmer

Future Farming Understanding land use diversification Kiwi farmers are world leaders in food production, known for finding practical, innovative solutions to new challenges. Land use diversification can help you get the best from your land, letting you find new ways to effectively manage productivity and sustainability.

Future Farming

These Future Farming Conversations are proudly brought to you by BallanceEx and hosted by dairy farmer Tangaroa Walker. What is BallanceEx? It’s our “Ted-Ex”- inspired platform that brings together experts, scientists, and other big thinkers. They share their expertise and points of view, getting us ready for the future of farming and growing in New Zealand. For more from BallanceEx visit ballance.co.nz/ballanceex

Meet the Panel

Tangaroa Walker, Host & farmer When not running his 500-cow dairy farm in Southland, Tangaroa is using his own experience to teach others about the farming industry. His mission to redefine New Zealand farming led him to BallanceEx, where he’s able to share his enthusiasm for innovation with like-minded farmers. “There’s nothing better than showing the world how it’s done, from one of the most challenging parts of the world.”

Robyn Dynes

Warwick Catto

Robyn is a Farm Systems Scientist and Science Strategy Leader at AgResearch. With over 25 years of experience in this field, Robyn has a special interest in farm system resilience and diversification.

Warwick is Science Strategy Manager at Ballance and a board member of FertResearch. He has coauthored numerous scientific papers and developed fertiliser industry policy for over 25 years.

“Land Use Diversification is as broad as New Zealand is diverse.”

“The investment that drives profit is in you, and your skills.”

“The science needs to work with farmers and communities to deliver the best outcome for the environment, while balancing people’s values and livelihoods.”

Land Use Diversification: Solutions and Opportunities

What is land use diversification? Land use diversification involves re-thinking the way you use the land on your farm. It can mean adapting part of your farm to work for a new alternative or changing the systems you use within your existing farm. It’s a way to optimise the use of your land. Not just growing higher-priced products, but finding the best setup for your lifestyle, for the environment, and to meet regulations. Adapting and innovating to futureproof your business. There is no “right or wrong” when it comes to land use diversification. Every farm is different, with different opportunities and challenges. Just because the farm next door has planted avocado trees doesn’t mean the same will work for you – you know your farm best.

Why is land use diversification worth considering? You’ll find many advantages to diversifying your farm no matter what your goals are. To begin with, diversifying land use also means diversifying income. It’s not just a sign of futureproofing, it’s a sign of a flexible farmer and team. They’re ensuring not a single corner of their land goes to waste. Another key benefit is meeting regulatory requirements. For example, you might find that an alternative results in lower nitrogen loss, and therefore a lower footprint. It can also help you overcome unique challenges to your farm. Does your farm not have easy access to water? Are you in an isolated spot that makes getting extra labour in difficult? Look for alternatives that make managing those challenges easier. Finally, diversified land can help you get the lifestyle you want. You can craft your farm to fit your skillsets, your passions, and run things the way you want to. Look for the opportunities that are good for the land, productivity, and for your lifestyle.

How do you get started?

Where should you go for support?

There are three simple steps to get you started:

If you’re buying your first farm or diversifying for the first time, it’s worth visiting a few operations to understand how land diversification works. Your banker or accountant will know which of their clients are doing well and could give you a few names to call (they’re also good at challenging you). Start by taking the best learnings from others and make them work for you.

1. Understand your land and where the opportunities lie. A farm environment plan is a must have, as it will help you map out where your constraints and opportunities are (sometimes you’ll find that they’re the same thing). 2. Make a plan. Do your values and goals line up with the alternative you’re exploring? Are you diversifying for the right reasons? How will it affect your succession plan? You can try getting in touch with an investor with experience in the type of farming you’re looking at. Or do you have someone in your family or team who can upskill? Not everything needs to rest on your shoulders. 3. Connect with people and resources to get a better understanding of the alternative you’re interested in. There are plenty of resources out there to learn from. Ask questions, seek out different opinions. Make sure there’s a stable market. It’s better to ask questions now than make a mistake later.

If you’re a farmer looking to learn, finding a more experienced mentor is a great start. Keep an eye out for farmers with higher profiles, people already putting themselves out there. If they’re on TV or picking up national awards, they’re already comfortable with sharing their expertise. Most local councils and government bodies are more than happy to give you the scientific information you need that’s relevant to your region – after all, it benefits the whole community.

Scan or subscribe to listen to the full episode:

Ballance with Nature Making it easy for you to care for and protect your natural resources. If the natural world is healthy, so too are the people. Taiao ora, Tangata ora.

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15 Bostock apples head south In a first-time joint venture for Bostock New Zealand, the company has partnered up with equity company Milford Private Equity to purchase orchards growing a high-value apple variety for the North American market.

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Farmers make hay while sun shines Last month’s rain has meant farmers in most parts of the country welcomed the new year with a good supply of feed, although while some areas are quickly drying out, others could do with more sun.

16 Emissions workshops ready to roll

Farmers are being urged to register for an emissions pricing options roadshow being held at venues around the country in February.

Markets ��44-48 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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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

Positives in 2022 UK food trends Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz BETTER breakfasts, flexitarianism, potato milk and the cannabinoid CBD are all touted as major food trends coming for 2022. Latest survey work compiled by United Kingdom food magazine Specialty Foods has highlighted some key trends that could bring some upsides for quality New Zealand food exporters this year. The clumsy phrase flexitarian is not a new one, but appears to have gained traction as consumers seek not to reject traditional red meat and dairy protein sources entirely, but to adopt a ‘plant curious’ approach to diets incorporating a greater portion of vegetarian meals.

But meat can lend itself to those sorts of meal options too, and Kiwis do still enjoy preparing, cooking and eating meat. Kit Arkwright Beef + Lamb NZ The latest trends report from retailer Whole Foods Markets has highlighted a 156% increase in UK vegetarian food sales. But it also notes consumers are still seeking out the highestquality eggs, meat and dairy products when they are opting for traditional protein components. In the meantime, the impact of covid on consumer habits has played into breakfast consumption, often amid early morning commuting rushes. A shift in consumer grocery buying habits over lockdowns and more work being done from home has driven greater consumption

of eggs for breakfast, up 68% more than the previous year. Bacon sales reported through Waitrose were up 25% also. Here in NZ Kit Arkwright, new chief executive for Beef + Lamb NZ, said the body’s most recent work in November confirmed some of the shifts being seen in the UK were emerging here. “In the first major lockdown in 2020 we were all about rediscovering cooking and good food. The next lockdown that mainly affected Auckland has had a focus on convenience, with greater purchasing of meal kits and pre-prepared foods,” Arkwright said. He agreed NZ had probably also hit “peak meat” in terms of consumption, something borne out of Australian research in late last year that indicated NZ was among only five other countries in the world where meat consumption had dropped in the past decade. Consumption here had dropped from 86kg per capita a year to 75kg per capita over that time. Arkwright said this reflects a desire to keep cooking time to a minimum, as much as any preference for alternative meal types. “If you walk down the aisle at Tescos, one aisle will be fresh meat, but three will be valueadded prepared meals, and we could start to see more of that here. But meat can lend itself to those sorts of meal options too, and Kiwis do still enjoy preparing, cooking and eating meat,” he said. He said given the increased protein options being presented to consumers it was incumbent upon industry groups to present a product capable of fitting into the different meal formats, integrating into the wider variety of cuisines that consumers are now drawing their meal references from. Another food trend identified was the incorporation of non-

CONVENIENCE: Beef + Lamb NZ chief executive Kit Arkwright says Kiwis are seeking more convenience meal preparations, particularly after the last round of lockdowns.

psychoactive cannabidiol (CBD) into food as an ingredient. New regulations allowing its use in the UK have it being incorporated into functional food products, with claims on its calming effects, wellness benefits and preventative abilities for diseases, including diabetes. The new rules for CBD use in the UK have placed that country at the forefront of regulatory standards in a market valued at £690 million (about $1.3 billion) last year. The UK is now estimated as the world’s second-largest consumer cannabinoids market. This year will see the launch

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of Choc ‘n Chill, that country’s first ice cream with CBD as an ingredient. Here in NZ, while hemp seed can now be used as a food ingredient, CBD is currently prohibited to be sold as food or used as an ingredient in food. Coming on the back of surging popularity of the non-dairy milk market, which now includes oat and potato milk, is also being eyed as the next growth version. A third of British consumers now use plant-based milks, forming a £400 million market in 2020, up 32% on the year before. Over a third of that is spent on

oat milk, having doubled in spend in only one year. Potato milk is claimed to require 56 times less water than almond milk, but is currently limited in supply from one company, DUG. However, traditional dairy products also appear secure, with 95% of consumers over 65 opting for it, and increased home cooking continuing to push up demand for traditional quality dairy products like clotted cream and cheeses. The magazine also identified spicy South East Asian foods and eastern Mediterranean or Levantine food as recipe inspirations over the coming year.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

Rewarding ag contributions Colin Williscroft colin.williscroft@globalhq.co.nz CONTRIBUTIONS to agriculture and rural communities were among those recognised in the recent New Year Honours List 2022. Michael Dunbier was made a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to agricultural science. Dunbier was director of DSIR Crop Research from 1983 to 1992 before being appointed foundation chief executive of the NZ Institute for Crop and Food Research. The first overseas board member of the Australian Grain Research Development Corporation, Dunbier was an initial board member of the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology and chair of the Arable Food Industry Council. He has held governance roles at organisations including Dairy InSight, AgResearch, SunPrime Seeds, Pastoral Genomics, Foundation for Arable Research, the Centre of Research Excellence in Bio-Protection at Lincoln University and Food Standards NZ. Peter Fennessy was made an Officer of the NZ Order of Merit for services to agricultural science and business, recognising his focus on bridging science and business in the NZ agricultural and biotechnology sectors. He was general manager of AgResearch Invermay from 1992 to 1997 and founded AbacusBio in 2001. Fennessy has held governance

and management roles across numerous small-to-medium NZ agri-and biotechnology startups and enterprises and has worked with Māori enterprises to add commercial value through science. He has been retained by government and industry research organisations in Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada and Brunei. Dianne Milne was made an Officer of the NZ Order of Merit for services to the rural community. In 1989 Milne was the first woman elected chair of Rotomanu Federated Farmers. She was West Coast provincial chair of Meat and Wool NZ from 1992 to 2000, is a former provincial president of West Coast Federated Farmers and a former director of Phoenix Meat Company. She chaired the West Coast Rural Support Trust from its inception in 1997 until 2020 and has remained a trustee since stepping down as chair. Milne was also a member of the West Coast Regional Animal Health Committee from 1992 to 2004. Jessie Chan was made a member of the NZ Order of Merit for services to dairy and agriculture. Chan was on the Federated Farmers Dairy Section national executive between 2009 and 2017 and was vice president and chair of the Mid Canterbury Federated Farmers Dairy section. She has been a Fonterra Shareholders’ councillor, an associate director

LEADERSHIP: Ruralco chair Jessie Chan was made a member of the NZ Order of Merit for services to dairy and agriculture.

RECOGNISED: Shane McManaway has been made a Member of the NZ Order of Merit for services to agriculture and the community.

of DairyNZ, was Fonterra’s Dairy Woman of the Year in 2017 and has been on the Land Use Futures board. She has been a member of Ruralco board since 2013, becoming chair in 2021, and is a current director of Ngāi Tahu Farming Limited. Graeme Fenton has been made a member of the NZ Order of Merit for services to rural and Māori health. In 1997 Fenton set up the first publicly funded rural locum and education service for general practitioners and practice nurses in New Zealand and was a director for 17 years. As North Island rural director from 2000 to 2001, he worked in rural communities and was involved in the rural implementation of the Primary Healthcare Strategy. He served on the NZ Rural General Practice Network board from 2004 to 2008. Ian Jordan has been made a member of the NZ Order of Merit for services to the livestock industry. Jordan established his Willowhaugh Southdown stud flock in 1956 and took over his father’s Jersey stud in 1964. His Southdowns were awarded grand champion all breed meat sheep at the NZ Agricultural Show and judged Supreme Animal of the Show in both 2017 and 2019. His Willowhaugh cows have won numerous championships, including Royal Show Supreme Champion Jersey, South Island World Conference Champion and five-time winner of South Island champion cow. He was a committee member of the NZ Ploughing Association from 1976 to 1997 and has been patron since 2007.

Shane McManaway has been made a member of the NZ Order of Merit for services to agriculture and the community. McManaway formed and has been chair of Platinum Primary Producers (PPP) Group since 2005, a collective of 120 primary producers across Australasia and Asia. The group supports communities through fundraisers, including raising $45,000 for those affected by the 2011 Christchurch earthquakes.

Peter Fennessy was made an Officer of the NZ Order of Merit for services to agricultural science and business, recognising his focus on bridging science and business in the NZ agricultural and biotechnology sectors.

He founded the Zanda McDonald Award in 2015 to recognise young people in primary industry sectors and support their career development with access to the expertise of PPP members. Sue Miller has been made a member of the NZ Order of Merit for services to agricultural journalism. Miller held several press and public affairs roles before beginning her involvement with the NZ Guild of Agricultural Journalists and

Communicators (NZGAJC). She was national secretary and awards administrator of NZGAJC from 2003 until her retirement in 2020. She organised conferences for the guild’s 50th and 60th anniversaries and spearheaded the guild’s hosting of the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) World Congress in 2015. Gloria McHutchon was awarded a Queen’s Service Medal for services to the community. In response to the growth in farmers from other nations in West Otago, McHutchon, a qualified ESOL teacher, has been voluntarily teaching English to speakers of other languages since 2006. She is part of a group who provide ‘Welcome Boxes’ consisting of necessities and baking to welcome farm workers to the region. She is vice chairperson of Moa Flat Rural Women, organised Armistice Day centenary celebrations for West Otago, chairs annual Anzac services at Heriot and Dunedin and has been a member of Heriot Plunket Society for more than 40 years. Sandra Spier was awarded a Queen’s Service Medal for services to health and the community. Spier provides access to first aid and first aid training for remote and rural areas and free basic first aid training for school children and new mothers through several community centres. She covers the areas from Taupō, Taumarunui, Whanganui Awa, National Park, Jerusalem, Pipiriki and farming stations in the Gentle Annie and Rangitīkei Awa areas. She also visits rural schools to deliver free basic first aid training.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

Companies heartened by quota decision Nigel Stirling nigel.g.stirling@gmail.com PRESSURE is mounting on Canada to live up to its commitment in the Comprehensive and Progressive TransPacific Partnership (CPTPP) to open up its market to New Zealand dairy exports after the United States used its own trade agreement to force open the door to its northern neighbour’s dairy market. A tribunal earlier this month ruled Canada had violated the terms of the United StatesMexico-Canada (USMCA) free trade agreement by setting aside between 85% and 100% of import quotas exclusively for use by its own dairy processors. Created to give low-tariff access to the Canadian market for dairy producers in the US and Mexico, the USMCA import quotas have been left unused by Canadian processing companies who have continued to source milk from Canadian dairy farmers. It is a similar story for NZ exporters who remain largely shut out of the Canadian market despite the creation of 16 new low-tariff dairy import quotas as part of the CPTPP free trade agreement. The Dairy Companies Association of NZ’s Washington-

DC based trade policy manager Elizabeth Kamber said Canada had set aside similar percentages for its own domestically-supplied processing companies in CPTPP as it had under USMCA. As a result, less than 10% of the annual quota for dairy imports created under CPTPP has been filled in the first three years of the agreement. Outside of the quota limits NZ dairy exporters face tariffs of between 200% and 300%, rendering most trade uneconomic. Kamber said it was encouraging that the clause in the USMCA agreement Canada had incorrectly relied upon to set aside a quota for its own processors was virtually identical to the one it had negotiated with NZ and other countries in CPTPP. “The matters are separate in the sense that they are two separate agreements but the similarities of the wordings do link them, so there is a clear relevance from this finding coming out of USMCA for CPTPP in our view,” Kamber said. “We would expect that any changes that Canada would make as a result of this … would also be extended to all of its quota administration policies.” Under USMCA rules Canada has 45 days to comply with the tribunal ruling or potentially face

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UNMET: NZ exporters remain largely shut out of the Canadian market, despite the creation of 16 new low-tariff dairy import quotas as part of the CPTPP free trade agreement.

It could follow that a logical step would be to initiate a formal proceeding or dispute under CPTPP to address the concerns NZ has under the agreement. Elizabeth Kamber DCANZ retaliatory tariffs against its own exports entering the US market. Canada has a patchy record of complying with adverse rulings in trade disputes and Kamber said the dairy industry here would wait to see how it responds and whether any remedies would be extended to the administration of CPTPP quotas to the benefit of NZ exporters. In two years of raising the matter with their Canadian

counterparts, NZ trade officials have had little success in getting changes to the way Canada administers its quotas under CPTPP. A review of the quota administration system for a range of commodity imports by Canada’s equivalent of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade had received submissions from the NZ dairy industry. It had been due to report back its findings last year but has been delayed. Kamber said the pressure was mounting on Canada to live up to the commitments it had given in the CPTPP to open its consumer markets or face further consequences from its trading partners. “The USMCA case has come through upholding the same concerns that we have raised, so I think it is right for officials to look at what other options the agreement provides for us to resolve the issue,” she said. “It could follow that a logical

step would be to initiate a formal proceeding or dispute under CPTPP to address the concerns NZ has under the agreement.” Whether or not to sue the Canadian government under the auspices of the CPTPP dispute settlement provisions would be for Trade Minister Damien O’Connor to decide. She said it was difficult to quantify the lost opportunities for NZ dairy exporters from Canada’s quota administration because it was just one of a number of measures the Canadians continued to use to protect its farmers from imported competition. Disentangling the cost to foreign competitors of one protectionist policy was difficult when they all worked together to keep imports at bay. However, Kamber said the NZ government should enforce its rights under CPTPP regardless, particularly given its priority of diversifying markets for exporters and reducing reliance on China.

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

Farmers make hay while sun shines Staff reporter LAST month’s rain has meant farmers in most parts of the country welcomed the new year with a good supply of feed, although while some areas are quickly drying out, others could do with more sun. In Waikato, December rain enabled pastures to maintain growth into the early part of January. It had now turned hot and dry and dairy farmers were starting to extend their rounds and bring in supplementary feed into the herd’s diets, DairyNZ North Island head Rob Brazendale said. “It’s a wee bit drier than normal, but not exceedingly so,” Brazendale said. Pragmatic farmers were now making decisions around their summer management. “I suspect most farmers will try to keep as many cows in-milk as possible to try to make the most of the high milk price,” he said. Farmers will also be mindful of heat stress in their stock after the hot temperatures of the past few weeks. Their minds will also be turning to facial eczema management as summer turns to autumn. At Owl farm in Cambridge, demonstration manager Jo Sheridan said managing heat stress among the dairy herd was their most pressing challenge. “The last few weeks have been two degrees hotter than last year and while we have had a bit of a reprieve this week, we’re expecting another few hot weeks and the cows are really struggling in the heat,” Sheridan said. Staff have been providing the cows shade wherever possible and using sprinklers to provide relief for the animals during milking. Whereas previously the farm was looking “quite green”, Sheridan said the writing was on the wall as soil moisture levels rapidly began to fall away in the summer heat.

BONUS: Favourable weather has led to a lot of supplementary feed being made around the Manawatū-Rangitīkei area.

Much of the feed we are conserving will be poor quality because of delays in conserving it. Murray Holdaway Federated Farmers

It’s a similar situation in Hawke’s Bay, with the region quickly drying out after good rain at the beginning and the end of December. Federated Farmers Hawke’s Bay president Jim Galloway says that could change depending on the

impact of Tropical Cyclone Cody. “If we get a good dumping from that it could set things up again,” Galloway said. WeatherWatch head forecaster Philip Duncan says the cyclone was expected to arrive on Sunday night, with rain in Coromandel forecast to spread across Bay of Plenty, East Cape, Hawke’s Bay and down into Wairarapa on Monday. Federated Farmers ManawatūRangitīkei president Murray Holdaway says the area is greener than it usually is at this time of year but it’s drying out rapidly. He says it’s been a good growing season, with farmers making the most of a lot of surplus feed, although a shortage of quality staff has hindered that. “The issue from a farmer

perspective is that much of the feed we are conserving will be poor quality because of delays in conserving it,” Holdaway said. AgFirst Manawatū-Whanganui consultant Erica van Reenen says contractors are run off their feet making supplements, however, pasture growth rates have dropped quite a bit in the last week or so. She says there is still some damage in parts of the region from last month’s flooding, but warm weather since then has meant it dried out pretty quickly. Wet weather in the second half of November and through December meant not a lot of irrigation was needed in Canterbury during that time. Mid Canterbury Federated Farmers president David Clark

says that helped kick growth into gear after cold, dry conditions earlier in spring. “There’s a fair bit of grass around now, so things have sort of caught up and there’s been quite a bit of silage made,” Clark said. He says from an arable crop point of view, flowering crops like white clovers desperately need sunshine. “Especially up country, a lack of sunshine hours, a lack of heat, has been a problem,” he said. “Potentially three weeks ago there was a very good harvest ahead of us, but I think the edge has been taken off that now. “There’s still potential for quite a good arable harvest, but we also equally need some heat from now on. “Canterbury tends to run six-week weather cycles and I’m working on the theory that we’ve had six weeks of wettish weather, so we could well go into six weeks of hot and dry, and if that’s what happens that will be awesome.” Further south, summer pasture growth for most of Otago and Southland is proving to be one out of the box. Farm consultant Deane Carson of Agri Business Ltd says most of Southland is looking pretty favourable, which is reflected in the quality of stock. This has been helpful given some farmers still had cull ewes to kill. He says most of Southland has had regular rain, but areas in the northern part of the province could do with some. It is a similar story in the Otago high country, where the province’s Federated Farmers high country section chair Andrew Paterson describes the conditions as comparable to some of the better seasons. “Everyone has filled their silage pits and haybarns,” Paterson said. But the growthy season has compromised pasture quality and stock are not doing as well as desired.

Good weather favours processors A LARGELY favourable summer is enabling meat companies to cope with stock flows. Silver Fern Farms supply chain manager Dan Boulton said it is fortunate feed covers in general have been favourable, which has helped take pressure off any processing delays caused by labour shortages. The processor is watching the

We are encourag-ing farmers to send in their livestock as soon as they are at an optimal weight and condition. Danny Hailes Alliance Group

impact of recent warmth on feed levels potentially leading to pressure to move animals off-farm. “This season we are seeing a relatively late kill profile and we are conscious that any major dry period from this point on, coupled with our labour-related capacity reductions, will create significant challenges onfarm for some,” Boulton said. Alliance Group manager of livestock and shareholder services Danny Hailes said the company is not yet seeing any extreme dry conditions. “We are encouraging farmers to send in their livestock as soon as they are at an optimal weight and condition so we can meet our important Easter chilled lamb programme requirements for the UK and Europe, where we can capture greater value for the co-operative,” Hailes said.

MONITORING: Processors are keeping a watchful eye on the possible impact of recent warmth on feed levels potentially leading to pressure to move animals off-farm.

News

10 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

Chinese power limits production Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz FARMERS are being advised to consider alternative cropping options as prospects for an easing of agri-chem shortages dim, thanks to Chinese energy restrictions and the global shipping crisis rolling into the new year. Agcarm chief executive Mark Ross says he has been advised by chemical suppliers that 2021 was merely a “dress rehearsal” for 2022 in terms of supply problems. This has been exacerbated by quarantine issues developing in mainland China, with authorities clamping down on ship crew isolation requirements. Chinese factories producing agri-chemical products in the Jiangsu and Guangdong districts are facing the greatest impact from power shortages, brought on in part by the Government’s efforts to try and reduce carbon emissions from coal-fired power stations. “They have found there are a lot of power plants that are not up to scratch,” Ross said. China’s efforts to reduce its coal reliance, which generates almost 60% of its electricity, tie in with its aims to become carbonneutral by 2060, and this requires controlling electricity supply until more sustainable options are developed. Ross says limitations on the number of days Chinese chemical companies and materials suppliers can manufacture is expected. Glyphosate manufacture is concentrated in the Jiangsu, Guangdong and Sichuan regions and are among those most affected. Over the spring planting period a global glyphosate shortage arose thanks in part to existing transport and logistic problems brought on by covid. Strong global commodity prices have also driven up the price, as farmers rush to get more crops in the ground to capitalise on returns. “The recent Chinese

TIGHT: Agcarm chief executive Mark Ross says supplies of all crop treatments are likely to remain tight as long as China limits power availability to chemical producers.

The recent Chinese requirement for seagoing ship crews to quarantine for a seven weeks at the end of their rotation was only likely to make delivery issues worse in coming months. Mark Ross Agcarm requirement for seagoing ship crews to quarantine for seven weeks at the end of their rotation was only likely to make delivery issues worse in coming months,” he said. The country’s increasingly strict covid-zero policies even affects vessels that have refreshed their

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crews elsewhere, requiring them to wait two weeks before being allowed into Chinese ports. Bloomberg has reported China now having the highest proportion globally of congested ports as of late November. The restrictions require mainland crews to quarantine for three weeks before their return to China, another two weeks at the port of arrival and two more weeks in their province before reuniting with family. Regulations to achieve covidzero are also expected to ramp up even further in coming weeks as the country gears up for the winter Olympics. Ross said glyphosate in particular was one of the most well-used treatments experiencing issues. He was urging farmers to start considering “plan B” options, should supplies remain tight heading into autumn planting rotations.

“We saw a big surge in demand, possibly with people stocking up on it,” he said. He advised farmers to talk to their merchants about what alternatives may be available. They could look at integrated pest management plans that incorporate crop rotation, local pest resistant or tolerant varieties and varying planting or harvesting dates to dodge pest infestations where possible. Ploughing was a non-chemical option in some cases for pest control, but Ross pointed to the irony that this released more carbon to the atmosphere, and increased fuel costs for farmers. One rural supply agent confirmed significant cost increases being borne by farmers included glyphosate increasing from $7000 for 1000 litres to $17,000. He said the problem was exacerbated by NZ’s relatively small-scale, pastoral-focused

market, with little incentive for manufacturers to do limited production runs of specialist treatments like grass grub pesticide. “In general, most fungicides are available; they may not be your first choice brand there, but there are still alternatives,” he said. Foundation for Arable Research general manager for business operations Ivan Lawrie said farmers were increasingly aware of the hikes in costs experienced for treatments and fertilisers, but were now beginning to be concerned about treatment shortages. But he cautioned there was the risk of encouraging resistance by reducing treatment dose rates to make limited chemicals go further. “And when it comes to disease and weed control, not all chemicals used are necessarily interchangeable,” Lawrie said.

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

Contractors miss out on MIQ space Gerald Piddock gerald.piddock@globalhq.co.nz A LACK of MIQ space means it is now likely that desperately needed foreign machinery operators will not be available until March at the earliest. Rural Contractors NZ chief executive Andrew Olsen said despite the best efforts of the Ministry for Primary Industries’ staff to help find MIQ beds for the approved operators, the indications now are that few, if any, will be available until March at the earliest. “This will mean many of them will pass on the option to bring workers in. It’s just too late, too hard and too stressful for contractors who are working their guts out trying to help farmers get in crops and ensure animals can be fed,” Olsen said. RCNZ and Federated Farmers, supported by MPI, have done everything they could to help contractors meet a crushing labour shortage, he said. “We understand and respect that the resurgence of another covid variant and border entry changes have put the squeeze on MIQ. That said, those risks would have been part of the assessment when we had Ministerial approval just a month ago to bring in the desperately needed 200 machinery operators,” he said. “Now, rural contractors whose work is essential to food production and our export economy, find themselves towards the back of the MIQ queue.” Immigration Minister Kris Faafoi and Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor announced on December 12 that 200 skilled machinery operators were to get border class exceptions as they “are vital for the arable and horticulture sectors to get harvests in”. These exemptions would also be granted 40 shearers and 50 wool handlers. Olsen said getting MIQ space is like peeling an onion. “It’s layer after layer and it brings tears of frustration for our members who are already working impossibly long hours and as yet have not even been able to lodge expressions of interest for staff positions which ministers had approved to come in,” he said. RCNZ members seeking to bring in staff under the next Time Sensitive Travel Allocation need to submit to MPI by January 19 for endorsement. The application closes on January 21 for spaces in March and April. Olsen said he’s still encouraging his members to make an application for a space in this allocation but it says it can be an onerous process. “That’s especially so when rural contractors are flat tack and also facing the likely reality that any skilled machinery operators they might get in won’t arrive until March or April. Add two weeks of MIQ space to that and much of the autumn harvest period will be over before they can get anyone behind a wheel.” Olsen said the Government had to meet the urgency of the situation. “We received approval December 12 and now more than a month on we’re looking at another two months before the first arrivals. It’s not good enough. The primary sector needs more support, now, and frankly the current situation our members find themselves in doesn’t cut it,” he said. The controversy over UK musician DJ Dimension testing positive for Omicron had killed off any chance of these workers being able to isolate on farms, he said. Federated Farmers employment spokesperson Chris Lewis said MIQ spaces had to be made available whenever the Government announced more workers were being allowed into New Zealand. Compounding the situation was the likelihood

of an early maize harvest in Waikato starting in mid-February, due to outstanding growing conditions. On his own farm at Pukeatua in Waikato, he was expecting the crop to yield another half to a trailer load per hectare of silage, meaning eight to 10 hours more work for contractors. “There’s going to be more tonnage on every job and it’s going to take them longer,” Lewis said.

PRESSURE: Rural contractors desperately short of staff face added pressure as MIQ constraints impact the arrival of foreign workers.

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News

12 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

Strong start for rural companies Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz WHILE its farming customers worked over the ChristmasNew Year holiday period for the majority of New Zealanders, PGG Wrightson’s share price rose by nearly 20%. It capped a very strong calendar year for the rural servicing company during which its share price rose 50% and its performance reflected the strength of the primary sector, especially dairying, sheepmeat and beef. On December 6 at the annual general meeting, chair Rodger Finlay announced an upgraded earnings guidance to $59 million in the current financial year, compared with $56m in FY2021 and with $53m as the previous guidance. He observed that total shareholder return for the financial year ended June 2021 was 30%, including a dividend of 28c a share, a yield of 6% and the rise in share price. “This represents impressive value creation for shareholders and reflects well on the health of the business and our trading performance,” Finlay said. He spoke as the share price sat at $4.40, having been around $3 at the start of 2021. It has since put on 75c between December 6 and January 12 and is now around $5.15. PGG Wrightson will report on its first half towards the end of February and Finlay has already commented on the excellent spring trading period and the resilience of the company’s staff members in adapting to everchanging covid-19 protocols. Equities analysts said the PGG Wrightson earnings upgrade was further evidence of good

has been Delegat Group, the wine company, that advised a lower profit expectation in the range $57m to $61m compared with FY21’s $65m, despite an 8% volume growth this year.

It represents impressive value creation for shareholders and reflects well on the health of the company. Rodger Finlay PGG Wrightson

PROFIT: Seeka made a guidance of net profit towards the upper end of a range $22m to $24m, assuming the Crown kiwifruit settlement would be paid.

performance from a rural agency now sticking to the basics and serving farmers and orchardists well in a buoyant primary sector. Elsewhere among the listed primary sector companies during the holiday period, Scales Corporation also upgraded its guidance to the upper end of a net profit range of $32m to $37m. Directors announced an interim dividend of 9.5c to be paid on January 14 and a repeated commitment to no less than 19c fully imputed for the 2021 financial and calendar year, to be confirmed towards the end of April. They said fruit prices were expected to be steady on 2021,

adequate labour would be available at harvest and that demand for pet food would continue to grow. Fellow horticultural company Seeka made a guidance of net profit towards the upper end of a range $22m to $24m, assuming the Crown kiwifruit settlement would be paid. It will report its FY2021 results towards the end of February. In the meantime, it has proposed spending $21m to bring Gisborne-based post-harvest company NZ Fruits Ltd into the Seeka fold during February, subject to due diligence and shareholder approval. Local owners of NZ Fruits will

be paid $78 a share, half in Seeka shares and half in cash. It will be the third expansion for Seeka in the past 12 months, after it took over Opotiki Packing and Cool Storage and the Bay of Islands-based packhouse Orangewood. Skellerup is another rural supplier that said FY22 has started strongly and its guidance for a net profit in the first half is 10% better than the previous corresponding period. The interim results will be out in mid-February. Its share price has risen during the holiday period and at around $6.40 stands 70% higher than at the beginning of 2021. Among the poorer performers

Founder Jim Delegat, stepping down as chair on February 1 to be replaced by independent director Alan Jackson, said the profit fall was caused by a lower 2021 harvest and higher grape prices. Delegats welcomes former Pāmu (Landcorp) chief executive Steve Carden to the position of managing director on the same day. The a2 Milk Company (ATM) and part-supplier Synlait will look to 2022 for performance recovery as their share prices fell by 50% and 30% respectively during 2021. A huge transaction in ATM shares occurred on November 30 when MSCI World Index sold 50m shares at around $6.10 because the dairy marketer dropped out of its index of more than 1500 leading companies from 23 countries. Accounting for over 6% of the issued shares, the sale was wellsignalled and didn’t depress the ATM price on the day or soon after.

Fonterra revises milk collection forecast Staff reporter VARIABLE weather and challenging growing conditions has led to Fonterra revising its milk collection forecast from 1525 million kg milksolids to 1500m kg MS for the 2021-22 season. Fonterra chief executive Miles Hurrell said the challenging conditions across many parts of the country earlier in the season saw actual milk collections down on the same time last year. “We were expecting conditions to improve over the Christmas-New Year period, but this has not eventuated,” Hurrell said. “As a result, we have revised our 2021-22 forecast down 1.6% to 1500m kg MS.” At this stage no change is needed to the volume of product Fonterra is offering on the Global Dairy Trade (GDT) platform, he said. “Due to the high demand for offGDT sales, we had already reduced the volume we were offering on the GDT platform earlier in the season,” he said. “We will continue to monitor the situation and carefully manage our sales both on and off-GDT.”

VOLUMES DOWN: Fonterra has revised its collection forecast for the 2021-22 season.

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• AgResearch Parasitology Team • Lincoln University Dryland Pastures Research Group • Strategic Winter Grazing Research Team

Rabobank People Development Award

Datamars Livestock Technology Award

FMG Rural Champion Award

• Farmax Ltd • Knode • Silver Fern Farms Calf Booking app

• Daniel Eb • Sandra Matthews • Meat the Need

Gallagher Innovative Farming Award

Alliance Significant Contribution Award

• Maatua Hou Ltd • Mt Linton Station, IMF Sheep Genetics • Sam and Sarah Johnston

• Bob Thomson • Professor Derrick Moot • Dr David Stevens

• Agri-Women’s Development Trust • Coadette Low • NZ Rural Leadership Trust

Thank you to our Awards partner Farmlands and the Award Category Sponsors.

Category Partners

News

14 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

EU-NZ agree on trade quotas Nigel Stirling nigel.g.stirling@gmail.com NEW ZEALAND has finally swallowed the dead rat of the European Union’s post-Brexit divvying up of agricultural trade quotas. The two sides have been at loggerheads since 2017 when the EU and the United Kingdom cooked up a plan for splitting market access between themselves for outside trading partners once the UK left the 28-country customs union. Exporters here said carving up the quota between the UK and remaining continental markets, based on trade flows between 2015 and 2017, reduced previous flexibility to switch up product flows between the EU and UK according to changes in market conditions. Previously NZ had been able to export up to 228,000 tonnes of sheepmeat each year to the UK and continental Europe without having to pay a cent in tariffs. As a result of the changes, which became effective on the UK’s formal exit from the EU customs union at the start of 2021, high tariffs kicked in once exports to either the UK or the continent exceeded 114,000 tonnes. Smaller dairy and beef export quotas were also in the gun. Exporters complained the three-year reference period used to calculate the new quotas did not fairly represent actual trade flows and were further distorted by the large volume of NZ exports shipped via the Dutch port of Rotterdam before ending up in UK supermarkets. NZ trade officials led a chorus of criticism of the quota-splitting proposal at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) in November 2020. The comments were endorsed by Russia, the United States, Canada, India, Australia, Mexico, Paraguay and Uruguay, who all

TERMS: A spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed an agreement had been reached with the EU, but would not disclose the details of the quota increases.

The new quotas were allocated based on new three-year trade reference periods nominated by NZ negotiators.

agreed splitting the quotas in the manner proposed by the EU and the UK undermined existing market access. Since then, the EU and the UK have gradually picked off their critics at the WTO with confidential deals. In May Russia and NZ were the last remaining holdouts. In October the UK agreed to a free trade deal in-principal

phasing out tariffs on a range of agricultural exports only after NZ agreed to drop its objections at the WTO to its part in splitting the quotas. And in the week before Christmas a social media post from a middle-ranking trade official at the European Commission announced NZ had agreed to drop its WTO complaint against the EU in exchange for minor quota increases for some agricultural exports. A spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed an agreement had been reached with the EU, but would not disclose the details of the quota increases. It is understood the agreement increases the maximum annual amount of sheepmeat NZ can export to the EU without incurring

tariffs from 114,000 tonnes to 138,000 tonnes. Beef quota for NZ exports to the EU is increased to a mere 1000 tonnes. Increases to dairy quotas were unknown but not expected to be significant. The new quotas were allocated based on new three-year trade reference periods nominated by NZ negotiators. A meat industry source said NZ exporters had backed the compromise in the interests of “moving on” and with the expectation of further improvements in access for NZ agricultural exports in separate negotiations for a free trade deal with the EU expected to wrap up sometime in 2022. While NZ maintained its original position that the EU and UK’s splitting of the quota

was illegal under WTO rules, a breakdown in the global trade body’s dispute tribunals due to the ongoing American veto on new judicial appointments had left NZ with little option but to settle the matter out of court through negotiations. A further condition set by NZ was acceptance by the EU that NZ did not believe a precedent had been set by splitting the quotas, despite NZ’s agreement to let them stand largely as they were first proposed, with only minor tweaks in the case of the remaining EU quotas. “We have said to the EU if we sign a settlement then it is a settlement but it will be without prejudice to us saying the way you did this was not the way we think you should do it in the future,” the source said.

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News

farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

On the Fence right now ? SWEETER: John Bostock says the Honeycrisp investment near Timaru provides access to a high-value variety with strong North American demand.

Bostock apples heading south Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz IN A first-time joint venture for Bostock New Zealand, the company has partnered with Milford Private Equity to purchase orchards growing a high-value apple variety for the North American market. Bostock NZ owner John Bostock said the partnership with Milford Private Equity gives the company the ability to purchase, manage and expand from the 76ha base of five orchards purchased near Timaru growing the Honeycrisp variety apple. Not available in NZ, the Honeycrisp commands a premium four times that of a conventional Gala apple and is popular for its slightly acidic taste profile and extreme juiciness. The apple was developed in Minnesota in the mid-70s and is capable of withstanding the region’s extreme winters and is recognised as one of the 15 most popular cultivars in the United States. According to the most recent apple category data, Honeycrisp accounts for over 30% of apple sales in the US. In the Midwest, Honeycrisp makes up 41% of apple sales. The five orchards near Timaru were planted seven years ago by North American investors who have exited the project. Bostock said the orchards are coming into 80% full production this season, and until now production has had to be trucked to Nelson for packing. “If the project proves successful then we will be looking to develop more infrastructure in Timaru to handle the fruit,” he said. He said Timaru lends itself well

to growing the cold climate apple variety, which brings its own challenges to grow, but commands a premium and is almost a separate category within the apple section of the US market. Bostock is the largest organic apple growing company in the Southern Hemisphere, with a strong North American marketing presence already in place.

If the project proves successful, then we will be looking to develop more infrastructure in Timaru to handle the fruit. John Bostock Bostock New Zealand Having orchard capacity to grow the Honeycrisp here organically means NZ can fill shelf space in the North American offseason, with harvesting in March for April retailing. Milford investment director Brooke Bone said the investment was an exciting opportunity for investors to get access to a premium horticultural investment in partnership with one of NZ’s top horticulturalists. “We’re pleased to invest in the local economy, exporting a great New Zealand product,” Bone said. Should the venture prove successful, Bostock said there could be an opportunity for further orchard investment in the Timaru district.

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News

16 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

Emissions workshops ready to roll Colin Williscroft colin.williscroft@globalhq.co.nz FARMERS are being urged to register for an emissions pricing options roadshow being held at venues around the country in February.

The options are a starting point that will evolve as science, measurement and technology allow more accurate recognition of what’s happening on individual farms. Sam McIvor B+LNZ The roadshow, which begins in New Plymouth and Palmerston North on February 1 and winds up in Napier and Gisborne on February 28, will provide farmers with an opportunity to find

out more about the agriculture emissions pricing options that have been developed by the He Waka Eke Noa partnership. As well as the 30 meetings scheduled around the country, there will also be four evening webinars for farmers who cannot make the meetings, or who do not have a vaccine passport required under the Government’s covid-19 protection framework to attend the events in person. The roadshow is being run by Beef + Lamb New Zealand, DairyNZ and Federated Farmers and as well as providing information on the options – a farm-level levy, a processor-level hybrid levy or being drawn into the Emissions Trading Scheme – farmers will be able to ask questions about the options and provide feedback on them. There will also be an online form available for farmers to fill in, whether they go to a meeting or log into one of the webinars. Under the covid traffic light system, there is no limit on attendance numbers of fully vaccinated people at events held in parts of the country classified as orange, but the workshops

BE INFORMED: B+LNZ chief executive Sam McIvor says if agriculture is included in the ETS farmers will lose the benefits of the split-gas approach.

have been scheduled in a way that should some regions move to red with the expected arrival of the Omicron variant and be required to cap numbers at events, there is the option for back-to-back meetings to be held if interest is high enough. More detail on the options is available on the B+LNZ and DairyNZ websites, but further information will be made available at the end of January so farmers will have access to the most up-to-date information possible before the roadshow starts. The He Waka Eke Noa partnership needs to report back

to the Government by April on its preferred emissions pricing option. By the end of 2022, the climate change and agriculture ministers must put forward a report outlining the system that will price agricultural emissions as an alternative to the ETS. B+LNZ chief executive Sam McIvor says it is important the pastoral sector puts forward a viable alternative as if agriculture is included in the ETS farmers will lose the split-gas approach achieved in the Zero Carbon Act. “B+LNZ acknowledges the options are not perfect, but we believe the alternatives have

advantages over the ETS for sheep, beef and dairy farmers, allowing you to influence change and receive recognition for both on-farm reductions in emissions and for sequestration not eligible under the ETS,” McIvor said. “The options are a starting point that will evolve as science, measurement and technology allow more accurate recognition of what’s happening on individual farms.” One way or another, by January 2025, agricultural emissions in NZ will be priced. Farmers can register for the workshops and webinars on the B+LNZ and DairyNZ websites.

New normal here after a hot year Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz

BREAKING POINT: Manaaki Whenua-Landcare Research scientist Nick Cradock-Henry says many contemporary farming systems are running close to their limits, with little capacity to cope with a sustained shift in conditions that stressed them over consecutive years.

A MANAAKI Whenua-Landcare Research scientist is cautioning that previously extreme weather events are rapidly becoming the “new normal”, compelling farmers to consider major changes in their farm systems. Nick Cradock-Henry said farmers face the twin challenges of not only mitigating against future greenhouse gas emissions, but also dealing with the legacy impact that over a century’s worth of hydrocarbon consumption is inflicting upon today’s climate. His concern comes as NIWA releases its annual climate report for 2021 that reveals the year as the warmest on record, exceeding 2016 for the highest average temperature at 13.6degC, almost a full degree Celsius above the 19812010 average. The highest temperature was recorded in Ashburton at 39.4C on January 26, with Auckland, Bay of Plenty, Tasman and even Fiordland all reporting temperatures well above average. No months in 2021 were below the 1981-2010 average. “The primary sector has a long and successful history of adapting

to inter-annular (between year) variations,” Cradock-Henry said. “But as the climate continues to change those strategies of the past, including sourcing supplements from elsewhere and shifting stock off farms become more difficult to use as events happen more and more frequently.” He said many contemporary farming systems are running close to their limits, in part due to financial pressures, with little capacity to cope with a sustained shift in conditions that stressed them over consecutive years. However, he took confidence from noticing how the conversation with farmers about climate change has shifted in the past 15 years, when initial responses were sceptical at best. “Now enough farmers have experienced enough strange weather to increase their sensitivity and understanding that it is happening. Most of the work we do now is to try to help farmers to adapt, with projects in Northland, Canterbury, Marlborough in place,” he said. The major El Niño event of 1997-98 was quantified as slicing 0.7% of NZ’s GDP from March 1997 to September 1998, or about $600 million at the time.

The event prompted the Reserve Bank to research the climate event’s impact. Its 2015 report determined El Niño sliced off 0.4% of GDP from every standard deviation from a “neutral” climate setting. “Work already done has found that drought is now NZ’s most costly climate hazard, ahead of flooding now, and exacerbated by climate change,” he said. Modelling has revealed the widespread drought of 2012-13 had been about 20% more likely to occur today than in the late 1800s. There is also a swathe of academic work under way to better quantify the impact of climate change on the entire economy in the future due to its likely impacts upon the primary sector. Cradock-Henry said he was hopeful New Zealanders would appreciate the tough challenges the primary sector has in dealing with climate change’s effects now, as well as mitigating against it. “Even if we reduce our greenhouse gas release today, we will still experience 50 years of global warming due to the legacy of gases already released. The question is, how do we support the primary sector to transition with this challenge?”

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

Mānuka producers stung by ruling Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz THE mānuka honey sector is contemplating its appeal options this month after the late 2021 rejection of its trademark claim by the United Kingdom Intellectual Property Office. The industry had applied to the office to secure sole New Zealand rights to use the phrase mānuka honey, a move that had been ardently opposed by Australian producers. The UK decision fell in favour of the Australian producers, with a ruling that there was a “lack of definition” around what constituted mānuka honey and consumers had little understanding of what the health benefits were. But the ruling has left industry leaders here angry and dismayed. Unique Mānuka Factor Honey Association spokesperson John Rawcliffe said UK consumers had a very clear impression of what constituted NZ mānuka honey, based on flavour, smell and appearance.

This ruling ignores the role of iwi as kaitiaki (guardians) and is insulting to Māori and our culture. Pita Tipene Mānuka Charitable Trust “The term will now be transferred to other species from other countries leading to misunderstanding and confusion,” Rawcliffe said. He said it would be misleading to consumers for honey producers outside of NZ to claim the name mānuka honey, when the plant the nectar came from did not grow in Aotearoa NZ. NZ’s efforts to protect and trademark the mānuka honey type were given a boost in September 2019, when the appellation group was granted $5.7 million through the Provincial Growth Fund, including a $1.7m loan to help in its bid to secure international trademark rights. At the time, then regional economic development minister Shane Jones accused Australian honey producers of attempting to steal what was indigenous to NZ. But in the lengthy 40-page ruling, the UK adjudicators determined there was a lack of definition around what constituted mānuka honey and consumer knowledge of its benefits. This is despite the Government here establishing honey standards for export as the only country in the world with a formal scientific definition for mānuka derived honey overseen by MPI.

The ruling leaned heavily upon a UK food standards report completed in 2016 that maintained there was a lack of consumer awareness that mānuka honey was exclusively a NZ product, a claim that has NZ officials fuming. Apiculture NZ chief executive Karin Kos said the outcome was extremely disappointing, particularly given the positive prospects the UK market was providing for mānuka honey producers. The mānuka honey export industry has been growing at a rapid rate, with export sales in 2020 totalling $440m, with the UK and China the top two markets, accounting for 40% of total sale volume. Mānuka Charitable Trust chair Pita Tipene said the trust was considering its options on a decision that was out of step with existing indigenous IP frameworks. “This ruling ignores the role of iwi as kaitiaki (guardians) and is insulting to Māori and our culture,” Tipene said. The efforts to have the mānuka trademark protected in the UK were going to be extended to other trade partners, including the United States and China. Jason Prior, owner of Down Under Honey in Manawatū, said the decision sets a precedent that will mean other countries, including Chile, Australia and Brazil, will start to market their product as mānuka honey, leveraging off the quality of the NZ mānuka type. “And we have been picking up quite a bit of business from people who prefer NZ mānuka honey to Australian. We have had five to six customers come to us in the past six months wanting to buy NZ mānuka and swap out Australian,” Prior said. “There is an awareness there that our quality is better, and taste is preferable. Maybe we are going to have to push the NZ angle with mānuka more.” He said the decision ran in the face of other provenance-type foods such as Champagne and Parma ham that have enjoyed robust protection. “To say that just because other producers have used the description who are not from the region or country for some time is a defence for them to keep using it is hardly a reason,” he said. “The use of the term Champagne in regions other than Champagne was successfully banned well after other countries had adopted it.” Australian Mānuka Honey Association chair Paul Callander hailed the ruling as “right and fair”. “The Australian industry has fought hard to protect its rightful interests in this growing market and will continue to do so. This decision is an important one that we hope will be followed by other jurisdictions where trademark certification has been sought,” Callander said.

TASTY: Down Under Honey owner Jason Prior says he has had customers come to him seeking out NZ mānuka on grounds it tastes better than the Australian equivalent.

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18 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

News

Sustainability on agenda at ag talk Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz RICHARD Heath, executive director of the think tank Australian Farm Institute, will be sharing his country’s approach to developing a sustainability framework capturing all parts of the farming sector at Agri-Food Tech 2035 in October. The Australian federal government provided $4 million to the National Farmers Federation to develop the framework in an industry where individual sectors have set some bold goals for becoming carbon neutral. The dairy sector aims to have reduced greenhouse gases (GHG) by 30% by 2030 and the meat sector has a bold carbon neutral target by 2030. This will mean by then Australian beef and lamb farmers and processors will have no net release of GHG to the atmosphere. But carbon targets are only one sustainability goal within the industry and the framework aims to provide an overarching means of first defining “sustainability”, then for measuring it. While early days, Heath says a natural next step once farmer and processor buy-in is gained could be to incorporate a certification scheme, not dissimilar from Ireland’s Origin Green system. Like New Zealand, he laments Australia’s lack of a “whole of industry” food strategy, particularly as overseas markets start to require both countries

to hit a higher mark than simply “clean green” claims around sustainability. Carbon sequestration is a significant subset of sustainability and one the Australian farming sector is increasingly being asked to do to help the greater economy achieve its overall reductions.

All agricultural sectors have recognised the need for climate action with a net zero pathway, knowing unless we do something the environment will be even worse in one of the most climate exposed farming countries in the world. Richard Heath Australian Farm Institute In its push for net zero by 2050, the federal government has decreed in its latest emissions reduction plan that almost a fifth of Australia’s emissions, or 100m tonnes a year of carbon, will be sequestered through soil carbon accumulation. It is a plan that has some claiming to grossly exaggerate soil’s carbon storage ability, and

Heath shares a degree of this scepticism. “There has not been much discussion on how realistic this is, particularly in context of maintaining farming systems profitably and productively,” Heath said. Heath agrees Australia’s national targets have been weak and there is a growing sense of frustration from the agri-sector, which has been given the heavy lifting job to help achieve them. “All agricultural sectors have recognised the need for climate action with a net zero pathway, knowing unless we do something the environment will be even worse in one of the most climate exposed farming countries in the world.” His concern is the sector risks on-selling its carbon credits to offset those sectors putting less effort into genuine reductions. “But at this early stage, it seems farmers are holding off participating in carbon unit sales, partly due to our low price ($A23/unit), and a desire to hold those credits to offset their own emissions first,” he said. Classing himself as a “relentless optimist”, the Nuffield scholar says regardless of what carbon pricing system and apparatus evolves, any attention on carbon emissions within the farm gate has to be a positive for the sector. In the meantime, it is beholden upon the rest of the Australian economy to lift its target game. “If the rest of the world took our pathway, then we would see a lift in global temperatures of 3-4degC,” he said.

RISK: Australian Farm Institute executive director Richard Heath says sector risks on-selling its carbon credits to offset those sectors putting less effort into genuine reductions.

Conference to link food, climate and tech Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz FROM October, New Zealand will re-engage with the international conference circuit as travel restrictions are lifted and the primary sector will be among the first to do so with the AgriFoodTech 2035 Oceanic Summit. The conference’s focus is on the critical role agri-food technology will play in helping the region achieve its net-zero carbon goals, also lifting the productivity of food production systems and building resilience in the face of climate change. As a key sponsor of the event GlobalHQ, publishers of Farmers Weekly and Dairy Farmer, will be profiling the key speakers, scientific advances and investment opportunities being presented at the conference. Conference organiser Peter Wren-Hilton says the event is modelled off the highly successful evokeAG conference last held in Melbourne in early 2020. The two-day event offers an opportunity not only for discussion, but for agritech

startups to connect with customers and potential funders. “In this sense it steps well beyond a conventional conference model, with a focus on breakout and plenary sessions all revolving around a recognition that it is the platform for delivering outcomes that will impact on how food is produced globally,” Wren-Hilton said.

FOUNDATION: Conference organiser Peter Wren-Hilton says the event is modelled off the highly successful evokeAG conference last held in Melbourne in early 2020.

In this sense it steps well beyond a conventional conference model, with a focus on breakout and plenary sessions all revolving being a platform for delivering outcomes that will impact on how food is produced globally. Peter Wren-Hilton AgriFood-Tech 2035 Oceania Summit

Agri-Food Tech 2035 Oceania Summit will be held in Auckland on October 10-11. To learn more, visit the website www.2035.ag

News

Awards reward science business success Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz PLANT & Food Research chief executive David Hughes claimed a top honour in delivering quality science in a commercial form in last year’s KiwiNet awards. Taking out the inaugural commercial icon award, Hughes has been recognised for the impact he has had upon leveraging Plant & Food Research’s scientific focus for research commercialisation. Since 2009, when Hughes started as group general manager of the institute’s commercial division, its revenue stream has grown from $13 million a year from kiwifruit and apples to $52m in 2020. That income comprises an array of crops, technologies and business models. This is now a third of Plant & Food Research’s revenue. KiwiNet represents 19 research organisations working in collaboration to commercialise their research projects and comprises institute heavyweights, including AgResearch, Lincoln University, Massey University, Callaghan Innovation and NIWA. KiwiNet chief executive Dr James Hutchinson says commercialisation had a critical gamechanging role to play in this country’s growth and commended Hughes for his leadership in advancing commercialisation and fostering a social license to commercialise research. Hughes’ recognition was not the only award Plant & Food Research collected. Darja Pavlovic-Nelson was awarded the commercialisation professional award for her work raising capital to commercialise the institute’s Scentian Bio project. The technology utilises insect’s scent receptors for monitoring and providing rapid detection of volatile organic compounds. The institute also collected the commercial impact award recognising research that delivered the potential for significant economic return to New Zealand. The award went to the developers of Aureo Gold, a bio-control product developed in conjunction with Zespri and UP for better management of the vine-killing disease Psa. With its low residue content and biologic compounds Aureo Gold is bee-friendly and can be used by both commercial and organic growers. In casting around for biological answers to Psa, Plant & Food Research plant pathologists sifted through numerous fungi and bacteria from its extensive library of beneficial microorganisms. Ultimately, the team at Ruakura found an Otago apricot fungi that occurred naturally on the plant and did not cause any harm and was the best candidate for dealing with Psa. The yeast-like fungi was found to populate the leaf surface of kiwifruit and effectively out compete the Psa bacteria, disrupting the Psa cells on the leaf and affect its ability to colonise the plant’s stomata. The commercialisation of the treatment is not the first win for the Plant & Food Research team, whose portfolio of bio-controls include Botry-Zen for controlling botrytis in grapes, and BlossomBless for fire-blight control in apples, and are among the first treatments of their type developed for horticulture in NZ.

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

WINNER: Plant & Food Research chief executive David Hughes was recognised for his efforts in boosting the research institute’s commercial successes.

News

20 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

Lincoln to enforce covid pass access Annette Scott annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz A COVID vaccination pass will be required this year for all people going on the Lincoln University campus, including the universityowned farms. The university has confirmed that as from February 14, covid vaccinations will be mandatory for all students, staff, contractors, tenants and visitors accessing its campus and university-owned farms. Lincoln University chancellor Bruce Gemmell says requiring My Vaccine Passes for campus access is a significant step for the university towards maintaining a safe environment for students and staff to learn, teach, research and work in. “The decision to mandate vaccines to access campus reflects the university’s view that the health and safety of our people come first,” Gemmell said. He says it has not been an easy decision, but rather a carefully deliberated one, underpinned by

a thorough risk assessment and importantly, a university-wide consultation with students, staff, contractors and tenants.

The decision to mandate vaccines reflects the university’s view that the health and safety of our people come first. Bruce Gemmell Lincoln University “I am pleased to say that the majority of the responses we’ve received were fully supportive of mandating vaccination for campus access,” he said. The February timeframe allows for the university to offer guidance and support students and staff who choose to remain unvaccinated and for the required

logistics to be put in place leading up to the start of the new semester. Former acting vice-chancellor Bruce McKenzie says the decision to mandate covid vaccines on campus provides a balanced measure of certainty that Lincoln University can remain open regardless of the level of the traffic light system. “Throughout the past 26 months of unparalleled challenges and fluctuating alert levels, I am deeply proud of how our Lincoln whānua continue to rise to the challenge, exemplifying our value of manaakitaka,” McKenzie said. “Mandatory vaccination offers the reassurance of far less disruption for our staff and students in not having to move in and out of the red traffic light setting.” He says being fully vaccinated not only offers protection from the harmful effects of the virus, but also enables students and staff to participate in on campus activities. “Being on campus is such an

BALANCE: Former Lincoln University acting vice-chancellor Bruce McKenzie says the decision to mandate covid vaccines provides a balanced measure of certainty that the university can remain open.

important part of the student university experience,” he said. “We aim to ensure students have access to the exceptional oncampus experience and a quality education they have come to expect from Lincoln University, in a safe environment.” The university recognises that choosing to be vaccinated is a personal choice and is committed

to supporting both vaccinated and unvaccinated staff and students. “We will be working closely with students and staff on an individual basis over the coming months leading up to February 14 to ensure the best study, research and work outcomes are achieved for everyone,” he said. The decision will be reviewed on June 1.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

Record export earnings forecast Gerald Piddock gerald.piddock@globalhq.co.nz REVENUE from New Zealand’s food and fibre exports is projected to reach a record $50.8 billion in the year to June 30. This is an increase of 6% over the previous year, accounting for 82% of NZ’s trade across that period. Primary exports also accounted for 11% of GDP in the year to March 31, 2020, the latest forecast from the Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI) said. Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor said it was the first time annual food and fibre export revenue had cracked $50b, calling it a result to be proud of as the country navigates the challenges of covid-19. “It shows the results of the enormous efforts of our food and fibre sector to meet the demand for our New Zealand products,” O’Connor said. He said the result showed the sector can be resilient in the wake of covid-19’s Delta variant. The sector could pay off what the Government borrowed to pay for covid-19 in one instalment with those export earnings, a point O’Connor said he made to Finance Minister Grant Robertson. “It puts things into perspective. One year’s annual export revenue can cover what we had to borrow to get us through the covid times,” he said. SOPI showed healthy growth across the majority of the food and fibre exports and showed the future of the food and fibre sector is bright. “The performance reported in

PROJECTED: Strong prices and high demand for dairy products are expected to deliver $20.9 billion in export revenue for New Zealand. In total, the primary sector is projected to deliver $50.8b in revenue by June 30.

One year’s annual export revenue can cover what we had to borrow to get us through the covid times. Damien O’Connor Agriculture Minister this latest SOPI is a testament to the sector’s huge efforts to keep

the wheels of our national and local economies turning and supply essential products,” he said. O’Connor said the sector was meeting strong demand as consumers around the world increasingly looked to healthier food and natural fibres with strong environmental credentials. “High demand for our dairy products combined with strong export prices are expected to deliver an estimated 10% increase in dairy export revenue to $20.9b,” he said.

“Meat export revenue is forecast to increase by 6% to $11.1b, driven by recovering export prices and demand for our meat products that are helping to fill the global protein shortage.” He said horticulture export revenue was expected to increase as well. “Consumers can’t get enough of our fresh fruit and wine, with demand remaining strong. This is driving an expected increase in export revenue of 5% to $6.9b,” he said. Forestry Minister Stuart Nash

said the outlook for forestry exports was strong. “We’re seeing continued strong demand for New Zealand logs from China and for sawn timber from the United States,” Nash said. “Forestry exports are expected to reach $6.7b in the year to June 30, 2022, an increase of 3% on the previous year. This is only possible because of the resilience of our forestry businesses and their massive efforts to get back on track and tackle the challenges brought about by covid-19,” he said. Oceans and Fisheries Minister David Parker said seafood exports were recovering from the challenges posed by covid-19, such as the disruption to foodservice. “Seafood export revenue is forecast to rise 4% to $1.9b in the year to June 30, 2022, as countries open up and foodservice resumes,” Parker said. “The growth forecast in this SOPI is promising, reflecting the seafood sector’s continuing success providing high-quality seafood to international markets.” O’Connor said it was important to acknowledge the hard work of rural NZ and to celebrate the performance and successes in the latest SOPI. “We’ve been very fortunate to have had an economy that’s kept ticking due to our health-focused covid-19 response, which has been backed by New Zealanders,” O’Connor said. “Together we’ve kept ourselves safe so we can continue to do business, and this SOPI points to the benefit of these efforts.”

Māori agribusiness driving export growth Staff reporter THE latest Situation Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI) report has highlighted the significant role Māori agribusiness is playing in the economy as landowners, asset holders, innovators and leaders. The total Māori economy is estimated to be worth $68.7 billion and grew by 61% between 2013 and 2018. Over the timeframe, Māori agriculture, forestry and fishing asset base grew by 108%. The report shows a record return of $50.8b is forecast for the primary sector to the year ending June 2022 – a 6% increase on the previous year. Associate Minister for Agriculture Meka Whaitiri said it is the first time the primary sector will cross the $50b threshold and Māori agribusiness is helping drive that growth. “The SOPI includes a focus on Māori agribusiness and shows it is growing significantly, contributing

$2.4 billion to New Zealand’s gross domestic product, supporting 22,500 Māori in agriculture, forestry and fishing jobs and leading the way for sustainablyfocused practices,” Whaitiri said. Just over one-third of Māori businesses are in the primary sector, encompassing 1.4 million hectares of land. Sheep and beef farming have the highest concentration of Māori primary sector assets, accounting for 37% of the total asset base. Dairy and forestry are ranked second and third, with 21% and 19% in Māori primary sector assets, respectively. Fisheries and aquaculture account for 13% and kiwifruit growing accounts for 3%. BERL’s Te Ōhanga 2018 report on the Māori economy found that Māori firms within the primary sector had lower average debts than their non-Māori counterparts. They also earned higher profits

than comparable non-Māori firms across seafood, primary processing and dairy. Whaitiri says Māoriproduced goods are recognised internationally because of their strong cultural and environmental values. “The Government is supporting Māori to continue their work across the primary sector through our Māori Agribusiness Extension programme, the Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund and by funding feasibility studies for Māori entities to build workforce skills and capability,” she said. “There are some great partnerships under way, including the Whangaparāoa Māori Land cluster, covering 18,000 hectares, which is working together to trial new crops, including edamame beans and peanuts, to see how they will grow. “Elsewhere, we’re backing the Miro group to move 310 hectares of underutilised Māori land into

TOPS: Sheep and beef farming have the highest concentration of Māori primary sector assets, accounting for 37% of the total asset base.

high-value horticulture.” The SOPI report highlighted the findings of a recent survey conducted by Lincoln University’s Agribusiness and Economics Research Unit. This survey found that British consumers placed a high level of trust in food produced by Māori enterprises. As a result, food with Māori

branding commanded a 43–50% price premium in British markets. Māori entities and small- to medium-sized enterprises are already capitalising on their international appeal, with the Productivity Commission finding that they are more likely to export than their non-Māori counterparts.

News

22 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

M bovis advice ‘will be actioned’ Annette Scott annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz RECOMMENDATIONS reflecting the lessons learnt from the Mycoplasma bovis programme will not be left gathering dust on a shelf. An independent review of the programme identified key lessons for future management of largescale and complex animal disease incursions. “The report is not going to gather dust, we want to make sure there is follow-up on the recommendations,” M bovis governance group chair Kelvan Smith said. The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) M bovis Governance Group commissioned the review in February last year, appointing Nicola Shadbolt (chair), Roger Paskin, Caroline Saunders and Tony Cleland to carry it out. The governance group comprises government and industry representatives. The review had three clear goals, including to reduce the impact of the disease and the eradication programme for everyone affected and to leave New Zealand’s biosecurity system stronger. Key recommendations released

ONGOING: M bovis Governance Group chair Kelvan Smith says the review recommendations will not be left on the shelf to gather dust.

in the review report include building a national contingency plan for future animal disease responses, supported by detailed operational procedures and materials. This includes developing standing governance of livestock disease preparedness made up of MPI and industry organisations and developing and resourcing the livestock disease preparedness structure, capacity and capability within MPI. Developing and resourcing a data strategy across

Agrievents

to deal with future biosecurity incursions. The recommendations affect farm operators, livestock industry board rooms, the wider animal farming sector and MPI. Several of the recommendations encompass findings discussed in multiple chapters; they have not been separated into chapterspecific segments but kept as a holistic overview of the proposed systemic improvements. Smith acknowledges concern has been aired as to what happens now. He assures farmers the recommendations will be actioned. “The governance group commissioned the review and the report makes it clear we have a role to implement the recommendations,” Smith said. “I can assure farmers we (M bovis Governance Group) are responsible to oversee the process to action the recommendations and work is already underway to do that.” A working group of representatives from MPI, Beef + Lamb NZ and DairyNZ has been formed to establish a joint government and industry agreed work programme to deliver the recommendations. The working group is chaired by MPI chief biosecurity officer Stu Hutchings. “The governance group is

monitoring the progress of the working group and there is a bunch of work already under way,” he said. The governance group effectively has two more years in existence.

We used the report to look forward to ensure we never go there again and how we can collectively build a strong biosecurity system for the future. Nicola Shadbolt M bovis Governance Group “We are here until the last (infected) farm is found, at which time long-term surveillance kicks in and the programme transitions to another group,” he said. Smith could not divulge details of that group at this stage. In the meantime, he says the focus is on looking forward to a stronger NZ biosecurity system to ensure better systems and support in the future for disease responses.

‘Pick winners’ to float coastal shipping

Wednesday 09/03/2022 – Thursday 10/03/2022 Farmax Conference The Farmax Conference is a platform for thought and discussion around how we can advance New Zealand’s pastoral farm systems into the future. For more information: agritechnz.org.nz/event/ farmax-conference-2021/ Wednesday 30/03/2022 – Thursday 31/03/2022 DigitalAg DigitalAG 2022 brings together technology leaders, agritech developers, early adopters and the next generation of primary industry operators. This event showcases the digital technologies transforming the agricultural and horticultural sectors. Formally MobileTECH Ag, this is a must-attend event for NZ’s agritech community. Venue: Distinction Hotel & Conference Centre, Fenton Street, Rotorua To register: agritechnz.org.nz/event/digitalag/

LK0109662©

Wednesday 15/06/2022 – Saturday 18/06/2022 NZ National Agricultural Field Days Visit the traditional Fieldays favourites, like Tractor Pull competitions and the Fencing Championships. Or experience something a little different at the Ag Art Wear show, the Innovation Centre, or the Festival of Logging. Witness extreme air displays, cuisine demonstrations, machinery exhibitions, stock handling and many more in one of the demonstrations areas. If you’d like to learn something new, join one of the many seminars, and enhance your presence in the rural sector. Venue: Mystery Creek Events Centre 125 Mystery Creek Rd, Ohaupo, Hamilton For more info: www.fieldays.co.nz/welcome Should your event be listed here? Phone 0800 85 25 80 or email adcopy@globalhq.co.nz

the livestock biosecurity system is recommended to improve NZ’s wider biosecurity system. Shadbolt says the panel considered the evolution of the M bovis programme from its start in 2017 to today. “Our review was informed by the experiences of both farmers and those who worked in the programme,” Shadbolt said. She acknowledges the report is “very critical in a number of areas”. “There is a lot of constructive criticism, it wasn’t a pat on the back,” she said. “Yes, to the farmers, we absolutely got the dramas and inadequacies, the report didn’t whitewash that, it brought that all out.” She says while understanding farmers’ angst, the review panel looked for the what next. “We used the report to look forward to ensure we never go there again and how we can collectively build a strong biosecurity system for the future,” she said. The report identified key to implementing the recommendations is for the governance group to prioritise, support, communicate and monitor the implementation of the recommendations with other industries and partners. Smith says the focus for the recommendations is aimed at preparing the livestock sector

A MAJOR freight company says plans to kickstart coastal shipping will be dead in the water unless the Government backs commercial winners, rather than “taking shortcuts” in the form of taxpayer subsidised sailings. Move Logistics executive director Chris Dunphy said while it’s good to see heightened interest in coastal shipping by the Government, the priority should be to pick winners and back them – ensuring spending is targeted. A Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency report by Pacific Marine Management was released in December advising on how to invest between $30 million and $45m earmarked for coastal shipping under the current national land transport programme. It found a resilient and efficient coastal shipping network would need increased capacity in the domestic fleet. Coastal shipping currently accounts for about 11 million tonnes of cargo freight, about 4% of the overall volume of the total tonnage of 278.7m tonnes. The report said there are a number of hurdles to domestically operated coastal shipping, including higher rates than the international ships they are competing with

NEED: A Pacific Marine Management report noted the need for a purpose-built import/export west coast hub, likely at Manukau Harbour, able to address the issues that limited size ports face in accommodating larger ships.

and “hidden subsidies” for international operators. It noted domestic operators are also on the hook for Emissions Trading Scheme levies that aren’t levied on international players. NZX-listed Move, a major player in freight forwarding and warehousing, recently launched a coastal shipping service for inter-island cargo. The move is aimed at bypassing the overburdened road-based supply chain.

Dunphy, a former director at Mainfreight, said it will expand its coastal business with or without government funding. He said the firm had entered into a charter arrangement and is also involved in a lease-to-buy on another ship which “it isn’t waiting on Waka Kotahi money for”. Dunphy said the Government investment “will go nowhere if it’s going to be handed over to Pacifica, MSC

or Maersk to simply subsidise sailings between Tauranga and Port Chalmers”. The Pacific Marine report also noted “priority berthing” and independent berth facilities at port terminals could be needed, with a purpose-built import/ export west coast hub likely at Manukau Harbour able to address the issues that limited size ports face in accommodating larger ships. That suggestion echoes the finding of an earlier report by economic consultancy Sapere, also paid for by Waka Kotahi, which recommended Manukau as a likely solution to Ports of Auckland congestion. However, Manukau has been consistently scotched as a port on the back of major shipping challenges, costs and environmental impacts. NZ Port chief executive officer group independent chair Charles Finny said neither the transport agency nor Pacific had consulted with any representative of the port sector before the publication of the strategy. Suggesting the report was more of a political tool, he told BusinessDesk “we have written to the minister and Waka Kotahi to express our views”. – BusinessDesk

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Volume 88 I January 17th, 2022 I email: agined@globalHQ.co.nz I www.farmersweekly.co.nz/agined

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Deferred Grazing

Deferred grazing is a management tool to maintain pastures. It requires paddocks to be rested from grazing from mid-spring until late summer and then grazed at specific levels.

This table shows a selection of prices from the Stortford Lodge Ewe Fair.

Head to https://beeflambnz.com/knowledge-hub/PDF/fs266-deferred-grazing. pdf?fbclid=IwAR3EmbsEgrhp4Z _ 3uJdx0wSmD5sWCZPsplVjZwGubmXcQHHgBJPZ0rPQI3s to learn more about this process and its benefits. Then see if you can answer the following questions. 1

What are the main things to take into consideration when selecting suitable areas for this practice?

2 Why do these paddocks then need to be treated like new pasture? What is the difference between grazing new versus established pasture?

3 From the study conducted, what were the similarities and differences between the deferred section and the rotationally grazed portions? 4 What are the main benefits of deferred grazing? What do you see as drawbacks to this process? (if any)

Have a go: 1

What was the top price for this selection of twotooth ewes?

2 Which breed were these ewes? What characteristics does this breed have? 3 What does ‘2-tooth’ mean?

STRETCH YOURSELF: 1

In a day of constant innovation and development some are choosing to look back to the past to help them achieve their agricultural goals. One of these is Churton organic winery in the Waihopai Valley where they are harnessing traditional horsepower in their pursuit of making top class wine. Check out the full article at: https://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/126912171/thegentle-giants-softly-nurturing-the-vineyards-of-ch urton?fbclid=IwAR3UrKtbtlZqed5NIezb-W-j8eTN _ WgUjokbWwF5LoW8nRRQ9fT2qAgckAs

Have a go: 1

What is meant by ‘capital stock’? Why is this worth noting?

STRETCH YOURSELF:

2 Why do you think the lines that made $300 and above outperformed other lines?

3 The best lines matched the previous record at this sale for 2-tooth ewes. What do you think is driving such hot demand for ewes at the moment?

How long have the Weavers been producing wine? When did they become organic?

2 What are the benefits of horses for vineyard work versus tractors? How does this allow for improvements of the wine produced? 3 What types of wine are produced at Churton? 4 What breeds of horses are currently being employed at Churton? What attributes do these breeds have that make them suitable for this type of work? 5 Can you think of any other sectors where older farming practices, such as the use of horses, is relevant and may become more useful again in time? Especially with the desire to continue improving our ecology within productive agriculture.

Where in New Zealand is Churton organic winery?

2 Is this area a well known wine making region? What makes the Weavers vineyard different from most found locally?

We would love to hear your thoughts. Flick us an email at: agined@globalhq.co.nz

PODCAST CORNER: To listen to a great podcast talking to Emily Welch an award winning shearer who is trailblazing women’s shearing in NZ head to:

TREASURE HUNT Can you find these items? Take pictures if you want to and tick the items off as you go.

• Rye grass • Clover. Bonus points if you can find a four-leaf clover! • Something made out of wool • Something made out of leather

Rural Women New Zealand and click on Emily Welch’s podcast. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/ podcast/black-heels-and-tractorwheels-presented-by-rural/ id1585897238

Newsmaker

24 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

CHALLENGE ACCEPTED: LIC’s new chief executive David Chin says he is really excited about unlocking opportunities for NZ’s farmers.

Focus on production not population After 15 years at the company David Chin has made is way to the top of LIC. David Chin told Gerald Piddock about his plans and what the future of dairy genetics will look like.

EW Zealand’s declining cow population is an opportunity rather than a challenge for LIC, new chief executive David Chin says. It will make the dairy improvement company more relevant to the industry because farmers will need their most productive cows. “I celebrate that because we don’t need more cows in New Zealand, we just need the best cows,” Chin said. The latest dairy industry statistics, produced by LIC and DairyNZ, showed NZ milking cow numbers fell from 4.92-4.9 million for the 2020-21 season, while average milk production per cow was 397kg of milksolids, a 3.1% increase from 385kg last season and the highest on record. Ten years ago, he remembers farmers having to carry over cows because per cow production was less important than it is today. “Now people are saying, ‘I really need to be able to milk a good cow’. It’s ironic that this is the most relevant we have ever been to the industry and when the industry needs us the most is when we’re facing a declining cow population,” he said. Chin says they cannot have it both ways after the growth that occurred during the years where cow numbers grew. “We just have to run the business smartly,” he said.

He sees the next decade as an exciting period for the dairy industry. “We have come off a big wave of growth and the challenges are far more interesting and exciting and I think as a sector we’re going to respond to them really well,” he said. Chin says those challenges are around climate change, animal welfare and other regulations, which brought into question the industry’s licence to operate, are LIC’s as well. “LIC is as much of the fabric of the dairy industry as the processors are,” he said. He says the role LIC can play goes beyond just genetics. The company can also help provide data to prove a new idea or technology was or was not working. It can also assist with animal health and diagnostics testing when it comes to disease mitigation. “It’s also about making sure we can work with other players in the industry. Partnerships are really important and a big part of our strategy going forward. When I speak to others in the sector there is a strong realisation that no one can do this by themselves,” he said. LIC did have a lower profile outside the dairy industry. When he is asked what LIC does, he tells people that eight out of 10 dairy cows in NZ have been bred using LIC genetics.

“It’s a pretty important job and I see our fates fundamentally intertwined. I’m really excited about unlocking those opportunities for our farmers,” he said. It was also well-placed to meet those challenges, thanks to its well-established genomics programme.

We have come off a big wave of growth and the challenges are far more interesting and exciting and I think as a sector we’re going to respond to them really well. “It’s really humming and it’s really setting us up so we can respond very quickly – far quicker than traditional breeding methods to the changes we need to make going forward,” he said. He begins the new role on January 17 and hopes to be able to get out and talk to farmers about LIC’s strategy and make sure that it is embedded. That strategy has LIC making clear commitments to its farmers in areas to deliver value to them on-farm. “A key focus for me as CEO will be making sure we are meeting

those commitments,” he said. Chin has been at LIC for 15 years, having started in 2006 and has held various roles, including chief transformation officer, key account manager and marketing manager. Most recently, he was LIC’s general manager of operations and service on the co-operative’s senior leadership team. He was responsible for LIC’s laboratories, farms and the field teams that deliver services onfarm, including artificial breeding, herd testing and FarmWise consultancy. LIC is a complex business with a number of moving parts and he says having been in such a variety of roles will give him a good grounding for the chief executive role. “Being here for a while and having experienced a number of different parts of the business, I sort of understand well why things are the way they are. You get good at figuring out how to get things done,” he said. The farmer connection with LIC being owned by shareholders gave the business a different feel compared to a more conventionally run business. “How it all fits together is really important. It sets you up well,” he said. Being asked to lead LIC’s transformation in 2016 played a big role in setting him up to be chief executive.

“It was very successful and was right across the business, taking very much a CEO-type of view of how we get all parts of the business operating,” he said. The transformation occurred just after the dairy payout fell to $3.90/kg MS. He also held a key accounts role in 2012, which enabled him to talk to large multi-herd operators and hear their views of the dairy industry. “It was an amazing experience and that was bringing together all of LIC for the benefit of customers and farmers,” he said. After that, he led LIC’s central North Island sales team and those two roles gave him experience of the breadth of the business and the value it can provide to farmers. His predecessor Wayne McNee has left the business in extremely good shape. “The finances are very sound and the way that Wayne and the board have responded to the downturn – we had a loss for the first time ever and that took some managing to see that one through,” he said. As a leader, Chin says he values empathy and listening to people. It is something he says he has learned throughout his career. “There are plenty of headwinds out there for dairy farmers and we have to listen to them and make sure we respond,” he said.

New thinking

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

Trial looks at new role for natives In a case of “sequestering your carbon while eating it too”, Massey researchers are exploring some alternatives to typical approaches in farm carbon offsetting. Massey University’s school of agriculture and environment dean Dr James Millner outlined early trial results to Richard Rennie.

LANTING trees, both exotic and native, on tougher parts of hill country farms has been heavily touted as an option to not only capitalise on the rising carbon market, but also a means to reduce erosion losses. Recent work by Massey University researchers has revealed native plantings may also provide a third string to this bow by providing a valuable feed source in years when pasture growth succumbs to drought. The researchers have been trialling some native species planted on tough east coast hill country that offer some feed value once established. The trial has been funded as part of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and Beef + Lamb NZ’s hill country futures programme. The project targeted the toughest 10% of a 564ha property and planted it in native shrubs for a five-year study period. The plantings reduced the property’s ewe flock by 290. “Really what we were wanting to do was to verify that if you had a stand of these shrubs there is potentially some feed value there,” Millner said. “It’s not going to be a significant contributor, but in a dry summer you could get value putting ewes onto them. It would be an

opportunistic use of the area and you would not want to put too much pressure on the plants.” The native shrubs that appear to have the greatest potential are papauma, or NZ broadleaf. “In terms of taste preference, we know it gets hammered by possums, goats and deer, the leaves are pretty good feed,” he said. The researchers have also studied the potential greenhouse gas production of the particular plants and biomass, or carbon reserves, they are capable of generating. “Measuring for methane production, all we know at this stage is that they are quite similar in terms of production to pasture,” he said. Typically, native plantings face high upfront costs to establish, with estimates as high as $20,000 a hectare on tough country, compared to as low as $4000 a hectare for pines. “And we are pretty much mandated by the look-up tables as to their sequestration ability, which is significantly lower than pines,” he said. Typically, a newly planted native forest area will take 100 years to overtake the carbon stored by planting pines on the same area. But Millner says some varieties of the natives the researchers have been working with displayed

DUAL-PURPOSE: Massey University’s Dr James Millner says planting native trees could provide a means to not only sequester carbon, but also a valuable feed reserve in times of feed shortages.

remarkably rapid growth rates as first-generation native forest species, with the native taupata growing two metres in the first two years of the project. He also acknowledges the challenges that go with such native plantings, not least the level of pest control required.

It’s not going to be a significant contributor, but in a dry summer you could get value putting ewes onto them.

“We had another site on the go up at Māhia but we lost that to the goats. Wherever there are goats, you can face a real challenge

getting these established,” he said. The expense of establishment should not be underestimated, and the east coast property’s 10% area is to be planted out at a rate of 20% a year over five years to stagger the cost. “Even then, it remains a pretty big project,” he said. The researchers feel confident the plants are livestock-friendly for quality and safe eating. In the meantime, they offer relatively rapid establishment on steep erosion-prone country. “And down the track if hill country farmers are required to act on sediment loss and biodiversity, there will be credits from these plantings in these aspects too,” he said. Early economic modelling against carbon values indicates at $65 a tonne, native shrub planting was marginally infeasible and becomes feasible at $71 a unit. Latest carbon values have hit

$68/t, with 2026 prices locked in at $80 a unit. The analysis also did not take into account the amenity value or value in erosion reduction. Further research work will examine animal feed preferences more closely and also examine the practicalities of incorporating pine trees into mixed planting scenarios. Coming from the Taihape district, Millner says he contemplates with deepening concern the rapid recurrence of droughts in that region and on the east coast. He says that should be giving more farmers pause for thought about the role forestry could play in ensuring they can continue to farm well into the future. “Hill country farming is pretty marginal at the best of times and now we face a succession of droughts that never used to happen,” he said.

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Opinion

26 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

EDITORIAL

2022 – the year of hope and action

ELCOME back to Farmers Weekly for 2022 – a year most hope will be an improvement on last year. Everyone hoped the global pandemic had reached its peak and a new sort of normal might settle in, but Omicron is showing us there’s more disruption to come. Still, disruption is inevitable on all fronts and is a challenge everyone will have to meet. Time doesn’t stand still and those wishing it would, will be left watching the action from a distance. Interestingly, though, it’s a nod to the past that’s predicted to be a major eating trend in 2022. Simple food for a complex time seems to be the order of the day. That’s good news for our protein producers who have proven themselves better-placed than most to meet the market. But while the food people crave is simple, producing it sustainably and proving it is not. Neither is delivering it right now. These are all headaches we might have hoped to have dulled over the New Year, but the reality is the challenges remain the same. And finding the right framework to ensure we not only meet those challenges but thrive because of them is proving difficult. Many of the regulations – both passed and planned – have a good intent, but the theory is amiss making the practice intolerable. If 2021 taught us anything, it’s that collective good is held up by collectively agreeing on the facts and working to achieve a goal. We achieved so much, but there are warning signs flashing that point to a breakdown of that collective understanding. Every food-producing nation on earth is grappling with the problem of how to keep people fed while doing away with the unacceptable by-products of the production process. We all want the same thing, so in 2022 let’s talk about solutions, not roadblocks. Let’s accept where the world is going and not fight for what has passed. New Zealand has the chance to show what the future of food looks like, let’s embrace that.

Bryan Gibson

LETTERS

River view the height of hypocrisy I WOULD like to take issue with David Haynes from Wakapuaka on his opinion in the December 13 edition of Farmers Weekly. The three rivers he quoted are all in the Canterbury area, which we in Taranaki regard as summer dry, meaning the water stored is needed for irrigation. He’s probably correct in that the water from these rivers has been overallocated. However, there are plenty of rivers in the higher rainfall areas of New Zealand, such as ours, that could be dammed for electricity generation with no water taken for irrigation. Would he rather see this country import more coal, than the million tonnes of last year, to generate electricity in plants such as the one at Huntly? This to power electric cars, which seems to be the

height of hypocrisy. We would be better off with nuclear power if we are not going to dam more rivers for electricity generation. John Hill Taranaki

No land is safe from carbon farming THE MyFarm prospectus-type article for carbon forestry was tone deaf from a company that bases itself in the middle of Feilding, the country’s lamb producing epicentre. Whether New Zealand should be at the forefront in the fight against climate change (given our 0.17% contribution to global emissions), or whether carbon offsetting just allows big polluting airlines and oil companies to carry on their

behaviour, not to mention the ever-changing rules, are all points of debate. The facts are that at current pricing at $68/tonne of carbon, you can’t blame farmers exiting the industry to take the current 25% premium on their hill country land to sell to carbon forestry. This premium, however, is solely based on a political subsidy, not a better economic or productive use of the land. After the 16 years of carbon revenue following planting, the new (and permanent) land use has to stack up in the long-term. Given log prices are totally dependent on the volatile Chinese boxing market and the fact that lamb prices have doubled in the past 10 years, this is very questionable. The past 18 months has shown us all how essential

agriculture and the red meat industry is to the country. Without the breeding country, there is no red meat industry. As the carbon price edges upwards, more land will fall victim to blanket afforestation. When carbon credits hit $100, all sheep and beef land, regardless of contour, will be vulnerable to carbon farming. The unintended and permanent consequences of current settings cannot be understated. Already it is having devastating economic and social costs in towns like Pongaroa, Weber and Pōrangahau. Longer-term it will be towns like Feilding that will suffer the consequences of short-term greed by investors. Ian Strahan Kiwitea

Letterof theWeek EDITOR Bryan Gibson 06 323 1519 bryan.gibson@globalhq.co.nz EDITORIAL Carmelita Mentor-Fredericks 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 – January 17, 2022

Growing demand for training Nigel Philpott

The heavy cloud that brought covid-19 also delivered a silver lining of long overdue financial support for training in our sector.

The second limb of that financial support is the Apprenticeship Boost, which is paying employers between $1000 a month for first-year apprentices and $500 a month for second-year apprentices until July. While both these support

The

Pulpit

frameworks are currently timebound, the Government has seen the direct success of these initiatives and we hope that their success in encouraging muchneeded training will mean they’re extended beyond these dates and become more permanent features of the vocational landscape. That leaves a range of other factors that are also leading to increased training, particularly in agriculture. Our sector proved resilient and something of a safe haven in the aftermath of the first wave of covid. That meant people who might, for example, have worked in tourism or embarked on the Kiwi OE tradition looked instead to the primary sector. At Primary ITO, we can also point to the success of new and updated training programmes making learning more relevant, more accessible and more engaging for learners increasingly looking for digital and online learning to supplement the traditional hands-on and bookwork approach. As an example, in our dairy programmes learners can now access a new tool enabling more ‘work as evidence of learning’. That can mean recording a short smartphone video of themselves completing a milking task and submitting that as proof that they’ve learned the course requirements. To return to the beginning – not enough people are training. I say that, despite the surge in training, because everywhere I go, and our network of dozens of

NEEDED: Primary ITO chief executive Nigel Philpott says highly-skilled people will only be more in demand as farms respond to pressures like biosecurity and freshwater standards and changing emissions requirements.

training advisers, sector advisers and managers hear the same: businesses are finding it extremely hard to recruit good people in a tight labour market. And if you can’t find people to employ, they can’t engage in workplace training. That is not an easy fix. What is an easier fix though is for businesses to invest in the staff they do have and for employees themselves to upskill. Training is the answer to so many of the issues facing farming. Highlyskilled people will only be more in demand as farms respond to pressures like biosecurity and freshwater standards and changing emissions requirements. Training in our sector is especially critical. Nobody who

works in the industry will be surprised, but it bears restating our importance to the economy. In the year to June 2021, NZ’s export of goods and services was worth $74 billion. Of this, over $16b (22%) was dairy. Likewise, meat, wool, fruits and nuts, different foods and seafood are all multibillion-dollar representatives of our primary sector’s contribution to our export economy. I’d strongly encourage everyone to make sure their people and themselves engage in training. It really is the best way of making sure our businesses, our industries and our sector retain that pivotal spot at the top of the economy. And at a level more personal to business owners,

investing in your people through training builds loyalty and can help retain good people and build resilience to all the challenges facing us.

Who am I? Nigel Philpott is the chief executive of Primary ITO, the industry training organisation responsible for workplace training in agriculture, horticulture and a host of other primary sector industries.

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EW Zealand’s farming training is through the roof and not enough people are training, which is not the contradiction in terms it might seem. At Primary ITO, we lead the training of around 20,000 people across the primary sector, with over a third of those in dairy or sheep, beef and deer farming. Many more are in the closely aligned meat and dairy processing industries. During 2021, we’ve seen enormous growth in the number of new apprentices – around 3800 starting an apprenticeship until the end of November. That compares to 2565 over the same time, nearly 50% more. To manage that demand, at Primary ITO we’ve employed around 60 new people across the country and will no doubt continue employing still more people as demand for primary sector training continues to grow. We can put the growth down to a combination of factors. The heavy cloud that brought covid-19 also delivered a silver lining of long overdue financial support for training in our sector – and in a range of other trades. Since mid-2020, the Government’s been paying the fees of most Primary ITO training programmes. That came as part of the Government’s covid response, covering the cost for our industries and other trades training through its Targeted Training and Apprenticeships Fund until the end of next year.

Opinion

28 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

We need a unified rural voice Alternative View

Alan Emerson

MOST years I present the Emmie’s Awards first. This year, I thought I’d outline some of the issues I see as important for the provinces in 2022, rather than revisiting the foibles of 2021. It is going to be a stressful year. For a start, we have all the environmental rules and regulations hanging over us like the proverbial Sword of Damocles. What concerns me is that farmers are painted as environmental vandals without any proof. We aren’t. Few sectors spend more time and money supporting the environment than agriculture does. The issue is that we have a pile of myopic city-centric bureaucrats in Wellington that are let run loose by government. I could detail a list of examples, but until that bureaucracy becomes considerably better informed about agriculture we’re going to have problems. I’ll admit that in the past agriculture could have improved its environmental stewardship, but we have to consider the wider picture.

In the late 1970s and early ‘80s agriculture was heavily subsidised as the country desperately needed the export income that we generated. That resulted, among other things, in land being developed that should never have been and fertiliser spread by the truckload without any of the precision of today. That would have caused erosion and polluted waterways, but it is important to remember that we were paid to do it for the good of the country. People forget that. They don’t accept that life on the farm is far different today than it was 40 or 50 years ago. The fact that the bureaucracy knows little about life in the provinces is exacerbated by some of the whacky directions coming out of the Capital. Locally we have the Land Transport Agency assessing rural roads for suitable speed limits. They’re then going to make a judgement regarding speed. Several factors they forget, the first being that we drive to the conditions. Round here the roads are all 100km/h, but we can’t drive at that speed and don’t. The second is having some clown from Wellington making an arbitrary judgement is offensive. Is there a problem on the road? The answer is no and how are you going to police speed limits? The police have better things to do. As I said, a criminal and reckless waste of time and money.

IMPORTANT: Alan Emerson believes that the primary sector needs a unified approach to tackle ongoing challenges in the year ahead.

Another issue is the stacking of ministerial advisory committees to get a predetermined result and Poto Williams’ gun advisory committee is a case in point. Are there any farmers involved, anyone with military experience? The answer is a resounding no. An additional problem is local government. Locally the Masterton District Council does a good job of working with farmers, but the regional council doesn’t. They hold all the cards as they can introduce a plethora of rules and regulations with neither consultation nor real knowledge of the issue and then charge you for assessment and compliance. It’s a valuable income stream they’re not likely to let go. The skilled labour shortage is a real problem and can only be solved by either changing the image of farming or immigration.

We must change the image of agriculture, which I’ll come to, but immigration is in shambles. Realistically the Government needs to take control of Immigration NZ as we’re going to need more skilled workers. Finally, as I’ve said over the years, we need a unified rural voice. The Groundswell frustration is obvious and well-supported by farmers. The problem is their lack of resources leaving them vulnerable to hijacking by lunatic fringe groups. Federated Farmers do a great job but are under-resourced. The levy organisations are largely missing in action with illusions of grandeur. After the levy vote Beef + Lamb New Zealand told me that 89.8% of voters supported the sheepmeat levy and that “farmers

strongly supported B+LNZ’s role in advocacy” – before mentioning that only 34.9% of farmers even bothered to vote. To then ‘announce’ the trade agreement between NZ and the UK was delusionary. Also why do we need photos of the chair and chief executive whenever a statement comes out of B+LNZ? While their on-farm work and economic service is great, they need to be far better team players, as unless we present a united front rather than the current collection of tribes, our industry will be well and truly screwed this year. It just requires a team approach and I can’t see that happening with B+LNZ or DairyNZ, which is a gross disservice to their levy payers as those organisations are putting egos and patch protection ahead of the good of the sector. We have a simple message easily sold. Auckland is largely out of action and our international education and tourism sectors are strapped, but we have a vibrant and sustainable food production sector that’s keeping the country moving. It’s all NZ has and needs support. That’s not a hard message for our sector to sell.

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

Sometimes you just have to look up From the Ridge

Steve Wyn-Harris

THERE is so much troubling news on this planet over these past few months, I’ve felt compelled to lift my eyes to the heavens where the real action is happening. We take for granted our dark skies, with little light pollution away from the cities. It takes a visitor from elsewhere to marvel at the wonders and clarity above us to remind us of how fortunate we are to be able to see the night sky as our ancestors have over past eons. Nearly all the planets have been on show over recent weeks, although you need binoculars or a telescope and have to know where to look for Uranus and Neptune. I’ve been particularly intrigued by the star Betelgeuse over the past year or so. This star is the red one below what you might call the pot but is long known as Orion’s Belt, with the handle of the pot being Orion’s Sword. Betelgeuse is a red supergiant and nearing the end of its life when it will become a supernova

sometime from now into the next 100,000 years. Supernovae are immense explosions that form all the heavier elements above iron. Without these explosions, life couldn’t exist. Joni Mitchell’s song Woodstock has the line in it that “we are stardust”. Look at your hand and all the atoms that make it up came from a supernova some billions of years ago and from which our own sun and planets formed. The star Betelgeuse is usually the 10th brightest star in the heavens, but has long been known as a star whose brightness changes. Over the previous couple of years, it has noticeably dimmed leading to speculation it was about to go supernova but has since brightened up again. When it does go supernova, being just 548 light years away, if any humans are still around, they will be able to see the event even during daytime and would be quite some show at night for several weeks. Recent research indicates that this dimming wasn’t an imminent explosion but that the star has spewed out an enormous cloud of dust, which blocked some of its light during that time. But it hasn’t just been the natural wonders of the night sky that have captured my attention. We had a lot of guests over the New Year and each night I’d march

them outside and point to a spot on the horizon and predict a bright light would appear. Which it did. My cellphone, which has more computing power than was able to be used to get men to the moon and back, has a nifty little app which alerts me when the International Space Station will make a good appearance. We would watch it sail overhead and think of the seven crew currently on board, with some of them having been up there for several months and travelling at 28,000km/h. By the time they faded from view they were already above the Pacific Islands. In the early hours of Boxing Day, the James Webb Space Telescope was blasted into space on a massive Ariane 5 rocket. It will soon be at its final orbit around the sun and 1.5 million kilometres from earth and three times further away than the moon. It’s seven-metre gold-coated primary mirror has unfurled successfully and will soon be peering back into time to 13.5 billion years ago, not long after the beginning of the universe to unlock further secrets of that tumultuous event. It is such a powerful telescope from a perfect observing position that it will also be able to closely study our own solar system, as well as distant worlds, adding to

humankind’s understanding of the cosmos and our place within it. Last weekend I was at a 60th birthday party when a commotion outside drew me outdoors. Great speculation was being had about the arrival of aliens in their UFOs. I was able to reassure the agitated that this was another of Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite launches in his quest to control internet access to every corner of the globe. Sixty or so small satellites in each launch look like a string of pearls following each other, but over time spreading out. Musk has sent up 800 already and hopes to eventually have 42,000 up there. It is a great concept to be able to give internet access to everybody no matter where they live, but the light pollution of these satellites will make it difficult for astronomers to detect near earth objects and then possibly thwart them from hitting us and avoiding the dinosaurs’ fate. Astronomers could also be obstructed from searching for planets going around other stars, black holes and the like. Another problem could be the amount of space debris that would occur should these satellites collide with each other. That debris then creates more collisions and the outcome is called the Kessler syndrome. Did

It takes a visitor from elsewhere to marvel at the wonders and clarity above us to remind us of how fortunate we are to be able to see the night sky as our ancestors have over past eons. you watch the movie Gravity with Sandra Bullock’s character caught in this situation? Despite this, it’s hard not to be impressed with the technological audacity of Musk’s project. Another great movie recently out is a satirical comedy called Don’t Look Up, in which a Trumplike president in denial of a comet about to smash into the earth has all her followers chanting “don’t look up” at her rallies, even as this Doomsday object spectacularly appears overhead. Don’t take her advice, do look up and have a front row seat of the universe as good as anywhere else on this small planet.

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 – January 17, 2022

Choose pathway or deal with ETS Meaty Matters

Allan Barber

OVER the next two months farmers will have to digest and consider the pros and cons of two alternatives for on-farm emissions calculations before the agricultural sector climate change partnership He Waka Eke Noa (HWEN) has to take an agreed position to the Government. The Government’s fallback position is to compel the sector to join the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) if the industry cannot make a choice on its own. As most farmers will be aware, HWEN is a partnership between government, iwi and sector-leading organisations, Federated Farmers, DairyNZ and Beef + Lamb New Zealand. This partnership has already been successful in gaining government consent to design an achievable means of reducing agricultural greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to an agreed set of targets by 2030 and, more crucially, by 2050. The next critical milestone is for the sector to obtain government approval for a firm proposal to be presented by an April deadline. It must be emphasised at this point the method of calculating emissions, whichever option is chosen, will remain set in stone, once the parties have negotiated and agreed it. But the actual targets for methane and carbon reduction may change and will be outside the HWEN or ETS processes. Consequently, there is

nothing to be gained if farmers reject both options just because they don’t like the targets. There is still time for farmers to refine the alternatives or come up with another one by lobbying their representative organisations before or at meetings to be held in February, but time is tight to make any radical changes to the carefully considered options. If, as is probable, many farmers have not yet got their heads round all the details and implications of each alternative, the February meetings are particularly important. Firstly to ensure the options are clearly explained and secondly, to gain a clear signal of farmers’ preference. A brief summary of the options demonstrates two key differences: a farm-level levy would be calculated using farm specific data and would reward actions already taken to reduce emissions and eligible on-farm sequestration. In contrast, the processor-level hybrid levy would be paid on the average emissions based on the total quantity of product delivered to the processor, with each farm being able to claim a rebate for actions taken on-farm and sequestration. Similarities of the two options are the split-gas approach, which recognises the differing impacts of methane and long-lived gases like CO2 and the reinvestment of levy revenue in R&D into emissions-reducing technology. The farm-level levy would potentially cost more to administer, but it would have the benefit of rewarding farmers on the basis of farm performance calculated using the GHG farm emissions calculator, with farm-specific technical mitigations, sequestration from planting programmes

and wetland conversion being recognised individually. The less administratively onerous processor-hybrid levy may be able to act as a transition to the farmlevel levy, but individual farms would need to apply for qualifying rebates for sequestration and emissions reduction actions. Another disadvantage is the inability to capture non-finishing properties for product supplied to the store market. B+LNZ chair Andrew Morrison emphasises NZ’s world-leading status in agricultural production, as well as being the first country in the world where the agricultural sector and government are working together to design a mutually acceptable outcome. The Paris Accord’s goal is for the most efficient producers to feed the world’s population, which should certainly guarantee NZ’s food producers a place near or at the head of the queue. The split-gas approach is another world-first, acknowledging the important difference between methane, which is a short-lived gas in the atmosphere and does not need to achieve the unrealistic objective of zero emissions to be warmingneutral. This perspective is supported by the Methane and the Paris Agreement Temperature Goals report, published in a Royal Society journal and authored by internationally respected scientists and policy experts. This report builds on the recent International Panel on Climate Change conclusion methane’s contribution to global warming is overstated where emissions are not increasing, as is the case in NZ. Public perception about agriculture’s contribution to global warming fails to appreciate the use of the wrong measurement (Global

NO GOING BACK: As the sector faces the ticking clock of choice, Allan Barber says it must be emphasised at this point the method of calculating emissions, whichever option is chosen, will remain set in stone, once the parties have negotiated and agreed it.

Warming Potential over 100 years, or GWP100) for methane emissions, while the Government has not yet explained the science to the public. Morrison is convinced of the need for farming to take responsibility for its emissions, which is the reason he personally favours the farm-level levy option, although he recognises it may be difficult to have 25,000 farms mapped and calculating their GHG profile by 2025. He says all farmers must ideally “own their own problem, and know their contribution to the problem and the solution”. Setting an example to the sector, he has recently bought his first cut of low methane-emitting rams, mapped his farm and planted 9% of what were traditionally called “ineffective areas” in trees and plantation forestry, while still maintaining stocking rates. Federated Farmers president Andrew Hoggard also favours the farm-level approach because he believes the system should incentivise farmers according to their relative efficiency, as well as lessening the emissions leakage, which would inevitably occur with the levy applied at the processor level. He acknowledges it will be easier for dairy than

sheep and beef farms to measure, but the GHG calculator will facilitate measurement. Hoggard and Morrison agree three large positives of each option over the ETS default option: it recognises the split gas differential, the levy is applied to the industry and it also recognises non-ETS sequestration, for example regenerated native bush and riparian planting. Both Feds and B+LNZ agree putting agriculture in the ETS won’t achieve the Government’s objectives. Hoggard says it is very important the sector reaches an agreed position, especially to avoid being put into the ETS, but also longer-term he believes any future government is most unlikely to change the option adopted by the partners to this process. It may seem like a rush to meet the Government’s April deadline, but the hard work already invested by the industry partners means there is a great chance of reaching a historical agreement, which will guarantee NZ agriculture certainty and a prime global position.

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

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World

30 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

World food prices surge 28% GLOBAL food prices reached a 10-year high in 2021, according to the latest analysis by the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). The FAO’s Food Price Index showed that across 2021, international food prices were 28.1% higher than in 2020, with the cost of vegetable oils and cereals rising most significantly. The index, which tracks monthly changes in the international prices of commonly traded food commodities, showed that cereal prices eased back slightly in December, off the

back of improved supply following harvest in the southern hemisphere. However, looking at the year as a whole, cereal prices averaged 27.2% higher than in 2020, reaching their highest annual level since 2012. Maize prices were up 44.1% and wheat prices up 31.3%. Vegetable oil prices reached an all-time high, increasing 65.8% on 2020 levels. FAO senior economist Abdolreza Abbassian warned that while high prices would normally be expected to give way to increased production this might not happen imminently.

INCREASE: Looking at the year as a whole, cereal prices averaged 27.2% higher than in 2020, reaching their highest annual level since 2012.

Include climate in trade rules – US

PLAN: Prince Charles is seeking consent to build a training centre on the ground of Dumfries House Estate, near Cumnock in Scotland. Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Prince Charles seeks to build ag school HRH The Prince of Wales’ charitable foundation has submitted plans to create a new farming school in Ayrshire, to encourage more people to pursue a career in agriculture. The Prince’s Foundation has applied for planning permission to build the training centre on the ground of Dumfries House Estate, near Cumnock in Scotland. The new school would be built alongside Home Farm on the 810ha estate and would seek to bring new people into the industry by training those with no background in farming. This includes secondary school pupils aged 14 and over, school-leavers showing an interest in land-based careers and adults looking for a new career. The school would also help farmers and rural sector workers looking to gain more skills. The charity aims to train about 1800 people a year at the new facility. Plans submitted to East Ayrshire Council are for a new building made up of two classrooms and accommodation, alongside a new shed

“The high cost of inputs, the ongoing global pandemic and ever more uncertain climatic conditions leave little room for optimism about a return to more stable market conditions even in 2022,” Abbassian said. The FAO said that its meat price index was broadly stable in December, but over 2021 as a whole, prices were 12.7% higher than in 2020. Dairy prices averaged 16.9% higher than in 2020, with the price of butter and skimmed milk powder (SMP) rising because of lower milk production in Western Europe and Oceania. UK Farmers Weekly

that will provide a demonstration space as well as holding and handling areas for livestock. In a design statement to the council, the foundation said delivery would be hands-on and practical, allowing students to immerse themselves in their subject area, giving them maximum opportunity to grow their knowledge, skills and passion for the industry. “The aim of the courses would be to ignite interest in potential careers and further study pathways to higher level qualifications and specialisms,” the foundation said. “The Prince’s Foundation also recognises the need to pass on traditional and rural skills (hedge laying, dry-stone walling, fencing, drainage, butchery) within the existing workforce.” Prince Charles has been a longtime supporter of farming and rural communities, promoting the importance of sustainability and voicing support for smaller farm businesses. UK Farmers Weekly

A NEW system of trade regulation is needed to ensure that environmental protection, as well as food safety, is properly accounted for in future trade deals, according to US trade counsel Jason Hafemeister. Addressing the Oxford Farming Conference on January 6, Hafemeister explained that trade was essential to raising living standards globally. Just over a century ago, there were one billion people in the world, of which just 16% lived above the extreme poverty line, he said. Today, the population has reached almost eight billion, with 90% above the poverty line. The reasons for this related to innovation, globalisation and trade, underpinned by strong international institutions, such as the World Trade Organisation, the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, which had opened up markets and set basic standards, he said. This had encouraged agriculture to develop new technologies and products to sell into the global market, leading to

ALIGN: As food production leans more and more towards its carbon footprint, US trade counsel Jason Hafemeister says trade rules need to change too.

increased productivity and income. “We know the gains from trade and we know the importance of global openness to develop the kinds of technologies that are needed,” Hafemeister said. “But how we regulate that trade is critically important.” GATT Article 3 on nondiscrimination had set a very firm foundation, he explained. “It says ‘I don’t care how you produce the goods –

that’s a sovereign decision’. The only legitimate reason for regulating an import is based on the characteristics of the goods itself,” he said. “So, if there’s too much chemical residue, if the food poses a risk to human health, if the food carries with it diseases, keep it out. “But different countries are going to have different minimum wages, they’re going to have different production processes – and those are sovereign decisions.

“These are great rules. They underpin comparative advantage, they allow for competition and guard against protectionism.” But Hafemeister agreed it failed to take into account the environmental effects of different production systems, particularly around climate change, and that needed addressing. “The climate challenge brings a whole new perspective to how we view discrimination,” he said. “Now, in a way we never had before, there is a concern about how goods are produced. “Starting in Europe, we are seeing conversations about carbon border adjustment taxes, where goods are being evaluated on production methods, particularly with respect to climate. “We therefore need new rules. We don’t want countries arbitrarily setting these kinds of measures – it’s too tempting to be protectionist. We see this coming. It is a really critical debate.” UK Farmers Weekly

UK can learn lessons from abroad BRITISH agriculture can learn from both the New Zealanders and the Irish in developing new export markets, and so protect farm incomes as subsidies are removed, Oxford Farming Conference delegates were told. Kiwi special trade envoy and livestock farmer Mel Poulton congratulated UK farm leaders for giving themselves more lead time to adjust compared to her country, where direct subsidies were removed overnight in the late 1980s. But she insisted there

were markets to be found the world over. “There are countries that absolutely depend on food security, so there is opportunity everywhere to create new markets,” Poulton said. “You’ve got to get out there and seize it, get out there and assist it, see where you can meet a need and take those opportunities. Focusing on relationships is the number one thing.” Irish agriculture minister Charlie McConalogue also stressed the importance

of food provenance, explaining that Ireland’s 135,000 farmers exported 90% of their output. Being part of the Single European Market had helped, but the key was being able to sell the “family farm” story. “This gives us a unique selling point to consumers all over the world and helps us stand out from the pack,” McConalogue said. One part of the Government’s Food Vision 2030 strategy was to ensure food was safe, nutritious and appealing, “with a

particular focus on trade”. The aim was to grow exports by 50% to €21bn by 2030, driven by increased value rather than volume. The work of Bord Bia (Irish Food Board) to tell the family farm story was key, as was stressing the grass-based nature of Irish livestock farming. Under Bord Bia’s “origin green” assurance scheme, farmers were audited annually to confirm their environmental credentials, which also helped in the international marketplace. UK Farmers Weekly

Ohaupo 221 Sing Road Open Day

Prime land in a prime location Tender closes 4.00pm, Thu 3rd Feb, 2022, Property Brokers, 138 Arawata Street, Te Awamutu View Wed 19 Jan 11.00 - 1.00pm Web pb.co.nz/HMR100414

• Don't be fooled - the photos don't do it justice ! • 43.4 ha - currently milking 136/140 cows • Mainly flat with a nicely elevated building site • Ash and sandy silt loam soils • Older 3 bedroom brick home and 12 ASHB dairy • There is nothing else needs saying, other than: - a full Information Memorandum is available on request

John Sisley M 027 475 9808

E john.sisley@pb.co.nz

Whakatane 388 Reid Road Tender

Pride of Opouriao Valley Since 1935, this farm has been an enduring example of this area's reputation, and for the first time in 86 years it is ready for a new prospect to take the reins. • 32 ASHB dairy shed • 99.3 ha, 100% flat contour • Concrete silage pad • Three dwellings • Deep silt loamy soils • 73 paddocks, great fencing throughout Dairy farms of this calibre are seldom for sale, prospective purchasers must act quickly. Purchase price will be plus GST (if any). Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 | pb.co.nz

Tender closes 12.00pm, Thu 10th Feb, 2022 View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/WTR100614

Doug Butler M 020 4026 2624 E doug.butler@pb.co.nz Kevin Richardson M 027 497 4066 E kevin.richardson@pb.co.nz Proud to be here

Hokio Beach 148 Hokio Sand Road

Land of opportunity Exceptional opportunity to own one property of 72.88 ha, or two smaller holdings. This incredible farm is in two titles, each with a separate entrance from opposite ends of the farm. Block one is 53.63 ha, block two is 19.25 ha. Buy one or buy both. Located a few minutes drive from Levin town centre, on town water, superb grazing land with a handy percentage of flat and cropable areas and a balance in easy, rolling pasture. Modern five bay implement or hay shed, sound fencing and useful set of cattle yards. This property ticks all the boxes. Currently grazing dairy and beef cattle throughout the summer and winter season, crops, hay and baleage plus a strong fertiliser history. This property could also be suitable for forestry. Plenty of scope for development here. Build your dream home, a place to live and enjoy rural panoramas of the Tararua Ranges, or utilise the land as a super handy support block for your existing operation. Properties this size seldom come on the market.

Oamaru 143 Otiake Road

For Sale Buyers $2,750,000+ View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/LR10905

Paul Beckett M 027 555 7810

E paulb@pb.co.nz

Murray Doreen M 027 490 4773

E murrayd@pb.co.nz

Oamaru 446 Priest Road Auction

Outstanding grazing property This attractive, well located, 204 ha majority irrigated property is currently utilised as a dairy wintering & silage production block. 145 ha flat irrigated with fixed grid & hard hose gun, 136 shares in Kurow Duntroon Scheme with large solar grids creating NIL electricity costs. Balance of the property is rolling to steeper contour. The lovely 2014, five bedroom 393 m2 home has large open plan kitchen/dining/living, walk in pantry, media room, double internal access garage & expansive sheltered outdoor patio area. Improvements including 12x18m workshop/implement shed, four bay lean-to and 17x18m Oiake stone storage shed. Large modern cattleyards and 300,000m3 storage pond.

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

Deadline Sale

Productive dairy support or finishing property Auction 2.00pm, Tue 15th Feb, 2022, (unless sold prior), Brydone Hotel Oamaru, 115 Thames Street, Oamaru View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/OMR94865

Merv Dalziel M 027 439 5823

A recent development, this 178 ha irrigated block has been fully regrassed and subdivided with new fencing to suit irrigation infrastructure and stock flow. An all-weather laneway has been established. 150 shares from Kurow Duntroon Irrigation Scheme (KDIC) with 65 ha pivot and 100 ha K-line. Good natural shelter with majority easy rolling contour and fertile silt loam soils. Improvements include a renovated three bedroom cottage, new three bay implement shed and Te Pari cattle yards. The ephemeral Waikaura Creek is permanently fenced off and native plantings are established. This block is future proofed and ready to farm.

Deadline Sale closes Thursday 27th January, 2022 at 4.00pm, (unless sold prior) View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/OMR91399

Merv Dalziel M 027 439 5823

Proud to be here

Coldstream 151 Wrens Road

Longridge North 162 Longridge Village Road Tender

Deadline Sale

Arable, horticultural, dairy support & livestock Quality soil combined with the existing irrigation consent, infrastructure and irrigation potential are the real strengths of this attractive farm unit. Additionally, the mature woodlot dominated by century old Oak trees, drain and pond areas create a natural environment that enhances the overall intrinsic value. There is scope to develop the irrigation and the property further and work within the current environmental parameters. Location, road boundaries and bio-security benefits further enhance the property for dairy support or intensive arable options. The balance of Templeton and Eyre soils provide the ability for multiple land uses and above average production.

Cows - milk - profit Tender closes 12.00pm, Wed 9th Feb, 2022 (unless sold prior), Property Brokers (Canterbury) Limited 217 West Street Ashburton View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/AR10927

Greg Jopson M 027 447 4382

This 180 ha dairy farm was converted 12 years ago and has quality soils, modern infrastructure, a simple shape with excellent layout and strong young pastures. 38 ASHB cowshed, in shed meal feeding with automatic mineral dispenser/mixer and a rectangular yard. The cow shed, feed pad and calf shed are centrally located and handy to one another, which allows for efficient management of all livestock. Two family homes, the larger one being set in an established garden, overlooking the Longridge district. This farm has been conservatively farmed by the current owners since they converted it and this is a great opportunity for the next owners to take it to the next level.

Deadline Sale closes Thursday 27th January, 2022 at 4.00pm, (unless sold prior) View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/IR100249

Wayne Clarke M 027 432 5768 John Hay M 027 435 0138

Mataura Island 542 Mataura Island Road Deadline Sale

Scale with three options - Vendors want a sale Multiple options available here with three neighbouring dairy farms available for purchase either as one large scale operation or as separate units. Farm 1: 105.65 ha, milking 220 cows. Farm 2: 141.27 ha (converted in 2011), milking 278 cows. Farm 3: 342.26 ha (converted in 2014), milking 622 cows. The three farms have undergone an extensive development programme since the vendors purchased them. There is a great opportunity for the next owners to capitalise on all the hard work and investment the current owners have done. Deadline sale, prior offers considered.

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

Deadline Sale closes Friday 18th February, 2022 at 4.00pm, (unless sold prior) View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/IR86245

Wayne Clarke M 027 432 5768

E wayne.clarke@pb.co.nz

John Hay M 027 435 0138

E john.hay@pb.co.nz Proud to be here

Nothing this good lasts forever, maybe not even next season 2021 was a bumper year by all accounts. December was Property Brokers’ strongest ever month with 51 rural sales equalling $233m, and just under a billion dollars of rural farm sales for 2021, equating to 50,000 ha’s of rural land throughout heartland New Zealand. Our Farmlands strategic partnership has underpinned the tangible financial benefits we now deliver to our farmers and growers. Most importantly, we have first-hand insights on what is driving our rural real estate market nationally on behalf of our vendors. We have invested significantly in our national rural network over the past five years. This has greatly assisted the role we now play in supporting rural New Zealand. Demand for horticulture land is still very present, predominantly from equityfunded buyer interest. Given the sector typically reflects very specialist and location-sensitive businesses, it’s often difficult to generalise; however, demand continues to set new benchmarks for value, particularly for proven gold kiwifruit orchards. The buyer pool is typically the more sophisticated larger-scale business with ready access to capital. The most significant appreciation in NZ rural land values has been with our sheep and beef sector; we have had a five-fold increase in the total value of rural land sold to forestry over 2021 compared to the prior year.

The window over the next six months to sell a sheep and beef farm for a premium has never been stronger. However, we don’t foresee the current market forces carrying into 2023 on the same basis. Interestingly, the Ministry for Environment is already consulting with the industry on options to moderate existing ETS policy settings as the carbon price tracks to $100/tonne, and emitters double down on exotic permanent forests to offset GHG liabilities. The median sale price for our sheep and beef stations sold to forestry in 2021 was $9,600/ha, up from $5,900/ha in 2019. The current carbon-only demand (set and forget) will likely come under increased scrutiny in 2022.

The dairy market, in our view, still represents some of the best value buying of any rural land class on offer in the NZ rural market. The forward outlook for dairy continues to be very positive; the product itself is a whole food, from a predominantly grass-fed ration, produced to one of the lowest carbon footprints in the world. As a nation, we remain committed to reducing our total GHG emissions. Our NZ dairy systems are already methane neutral, and agri-tech continues to accelerate further methane reduction solutions. Fonterra is in the best position in a long while, and no other major NZ industry continues to de-leverage at the rate our dairy sector has through the global pandemic. It is hard to imagine a combination of more favourable factors supporting a market. This is a classic case of the expensive land being very cheap relative to other land use options, particularly when you factor in the underlying future confidence in a sustainable dairy return.

Our view is the dairy market will continue to strengthen in 2022, and we look forward to taking an active part in that story. Despite farming cashflows and balance sheets being in the best shape in a generation, access to new capital continues to be rationed under tighter and tighter regulatory frameworks. The confidence to operate and the size of the potential buyer pool, particularly for our dairy listings, often comes down to the quality of the information available at the time of listing. Our approach focuses on ensuring all apparent operational compliance is addressed well ahead of time to ensure the ‘grey’ with compliance frameworks is adequately dealt with on behalf of buyers and their advisers. A vendor’s decision to sell a rural asset is never taken lightly, even when the market is running hot. For our part, vendor-agreed sales and marketing campaigns, and a discipline of not accepting first offers, has captured many of the year-on-year value gains on behalf of our vendors.

Vendors looking to capitalise on the current window might want to consider that decision this season, not next.

For those contemplating their farming options for 2022, please do not hesitate to reach out to us; we are happy to have informal conversations that sometimes can take several seasons to crystallise.

Long term, current pastoral land values are expected to hold up but on a more sustainable basis. This will likely include a more robust farming/ forestry model and a much stronger focus on native planting/regeneration of genuine marginal land.

For those wanting to act now, there has never been a better time to contact us. Our business has never been more ready; our national network gives us the option to truly back our own story and deliver on your objectives.

Beef finishing properties are expected to hit new value points in 2022 as improved hill country balance sheets look for better ground. In some regions, e.g. Manawatu, beef finishers will pay dairy prices for quality finishing farms, including preparedness to de-convert proven dairy businesses. The other significant shift for us has been the dairy market. We sold 70 dairy farms in 2021 for a median price of $42,000/ha, up from 44 dairy farms ($28,000/ha) in 2020. This now gives us a category leadership position in national dairy farm sales, with $445m sold over the calendar year of 2021. We have seen appreciable lifts across the country by both value and volume, with the most substantial value gains in the Waikato (Property Brokers median $48,700/ha) and Canterbury (Property Brokers median $50,000/ha).

We go to market with our Autumn Rural Outlook in the first week of March. We are accepting expressions of interest now for anybody wanting their property showcased across 75,000 rural letterboxes nationwide this autumn. For rural and lifestyle property advice from a national team of committed salespeople, supported by our expert marketing team, right across New Zealand, call 0800 367 5263 or visit pb.co.nz. Conrad Wilkshire GM Rural for Property Brokers Ltd conrad@pb.co.nz

Property Brokers sold

50,000 ha

of rural land in 2021, for just under a

$1 billion dollars

Beef finishing properties are expected to

increase in value as improved hill country balance sheets, look for better finishing ground

Five-fold increase ln the total value of Property Brokers rural land sold to forestry in 2021, with our median price now $9,600/ha nothing this good lasts forever, maybe not even next season!

Property Brokers is now the category leader, in NZ dairy real estate with $445m in farm sales last year, NZ dairy continues to represent excellent value for money in 2022. Our median sale price was $42,000/ha last year.

Now is the time to start planning for an autumn sale

A successful marketing strategy includes doing the due diligence ahead of time, and importantly well ahead of listing, this autumn will be no exception, buyer access to credit is expected to get harder not easier in 2022, particularly if compliance is not up to speed.

Rural Outlook Out March 2022

Don’t miss the opportunity to showcase your property to 75,000 rural letterboxes. Talk with your local Property Brokers Team today

0800 367 5263

Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 | PB056700

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 17, 2022

TENDER

OPEN DAY

A Quality Opportunity

Open Day: Thursday, 20 January 11.00am - 1.00pm

A good strong commercially-sustainable dairy unit with a very good standard of improvements situated in the Pokuru district, within an easy drive of Te Awamutu. • • • • •

515 Candy Road, Pokuru - approx. 12 kms to Te Awamutu 129.6 hectares - Waipa River on western boundary easy rolling contour with strong flats & some sidlings soil types include mairoa ash & puniu silt loam good subdivision & races; consistently well fertilised & water reticulation system sourced from two bores • carrying approx. 360 cows & producing approx. 143,000 kgs milk solids

• 24 aside hb farm dairy, 48 sets of cups, auto cup removers, adjoining feedpad and effluent ponds; 500t silage bunker; large calf rearing & feed storage shedding • attractive 3 yr old homestead, panoramic views to Mt Pirongia; 4 brms, ensuite, 2 living areas, attached dble carshed; additional 3 brm cottage recently renovated • alternate land use options; established kiwifruit orchard on northern boundary • a great district, well known for very good primary schooling; school buses for primary and secondary at the gate

Ph Brian Peacocke 021 373 113 / TradeMe search # R1408

Tenders Close: Friday, 18 February 2022 - 4.00pm

PRL Enterprises Ltd t/a PRL Rural

021 373 113

Licensed REAA2008

MREINZ

bjp@prl308.co.nz

Open Day: Wednesday 19th January 11am Start

OUTSTANDING TARATA DRYSTOCK FARM 163 Oapui Road, Tarata

Central Hawke's Bay 361 Te Manuiri Road, Omakere Strong 263ha with summer rainfall Located 63 kilometres south of Hastings is this strong 263 hectare farm which has excellent limestone spring water sources and benefits from good summer rainfall. The farm is well subdivided into 27 main paddocks with approximately 23 hectares of drained flats and the balance easy-medium hill country, with some steeper faces. Approximately 40 hectares of one year old Pinus Radiata is being registered in the Emissions Trading Scheme, with pockets of attractive native bush and poplar trees providing plenty of shade. Improvements include a near new set of cattle yards, including load-out race for sheep and cattle and adjacent sheep yards. There are also two further sets of satellite sheep yards topping off this very desirable breeding and finishing unit.

bayleys.co.nz/2852820

Tender (will not be sold prior) Closing 4pm, Fri 18 Feb 2022 17 Napier Road, Havelock North View by appointment Tim Wynne-Lewis 027 488 9719 tim.wynne-lewis@bayleys.co.nz Tony Rasmussen 027 429 2253 tony.rasmussen@bayleys.co.nz EASTERN REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS REALTY, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

625 hectares

This 625 hectare top calibre farm comprises superb contour being a large proportion of flat to easy with the balance medium hill. Previously dairyed on, the farm has excellent all weather metalled lanes accessing most parts of the farm to the 135 main paddocks, making stock movement a breeze. Two very good water systems reticulate water through initially 40mm and 32mm lines to troughs in all paddocks. Fencing is mainly post and batten and is very good quality with mains electric power reaching approximately a third of the farm. There is also around 80 ha which is deer fenced. There are three dwellings with the main five bedroom plus office home set in attractive surrounds of mature trees. The other two homes are four and three bedrooms respectively. Farm buildings include a 3 stand woolshed, a new four bay lock up shed, hay sheds, deer facility and yards plus both sheep and cattle yards. This very attractive and appealing farm is currently carrying a mix of dairy heifers, breeding cows, sheep and bulls but is very suitable to being a cattle only farm with either dairy heifers and or beef or a mix of both. Last season 1000 bales of wrap silage were harvested with a lot more land capable of being harvested or cropped. Seldom do we see a farm of this size in Taranaki with such a large percentage of excellent contour on offer. We highly recommend inspection to those seeking a very good sizeable and very appealing family farm and being only Owen Mills 20 minutes from town. M: 027 477 7302 E: owen@fntaranaki.co.nz

Tender Close Thursday 10th February 2022 at 1pm, 201 Broadway Stratford, Taranaki

201 Broadway, Stratford

Licensed Under REAA 2008

www.fntaranaki.co.nz

06 765 8550

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 17, 2022

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

TENDER

Absolutely Everything Equine Matamata A rare opportunity has arisen to secure one or two of the most comprehensive and complete training/pre-training/breaking

establishments in the area. Only a short drive to the renowned Matamata racecourse, these properties epitomise quality and class.

1) 6.62ha with 22 boxes, 4 tie ups, a wash-down bay, separate feed room, storage room and tack room, a fully enclosed lunge ring and large 30m x 80m sand arena. In addition to the 13 paddocks and 9 day yards, there is a large 12m x 24m covered yard. A 12 stand horse walker

compliments the fully fenced 600m sand track. A character three bedroom villa that needs some work, has space galore and the added bonus of an office or fourth bedroom through the carport.

2) 27.7549 ha comprising of four titles with an 8 bay stable complex with attached accommodation. A top level of improvements on this property which include in total 25 boxes, a round pen, 12 stand horse walker, day yards and sand arena also. The property is fenced well with cattle yards and loading ramp. Both properties have their own bore for a plentiful water supply.

The home is a modern five bedroom build with an attached double garage, built in 2013 with a heated swimming pool. We have been instructed to offer these up for Tender as a Mortgagee sale, closing Thursday 17th February 2022. (unless sold prior)

Call Jack or Glen for more information

Tender Closes Thurs 17th Feb, 1pm (unless sold prior) _______________________________________________ View By Appointment _______________________________________________ Agent Jack Van Lierop 027 445 5099 Glen Murray 027 488 6138 LJ Hooker Matamata 07 888 5677 Link Realty Ltd. Licensed Agent REAA 2008

AUCTION

2003 Tahuna Road

37.3 ha

A very tidy 37.3 hectare dairy farm at Te Hoe with a raft of opportunities for the new owners. A mixture of flat to hill pastures with approximately 3 hectares of native bush. 9 year old 17 ASHB shed with updated effluent system. Races and fences are in excellent order. 28 hectares have been regrassed in the past 3 years, a 3 bay gable barn, 5 bay barn and 1 bay lockable adding to a very good farm infrastructure. 3 bedroom brick home with 2 toilets and double garage support this very tidy unit. 10 minutes to Tahuna, 14 minutes to Ohinewai. Lots of opportunity awaits. Auction 10th February 2022 (Unless sold prior).

525 ha approx.

Tauhei

Te Hoe Lifestyle/Dairy Opportunity

180 Manuel Road

Auction Thursday 10th Feb at 1:00pm (Unless sold prior) ___________________________________ Agent Dave Young 0274 579 060

525 ha Dairy Farm With Real Options Vendor seeks sale!! Will also accept enquiry from equity interest. Well located self contained dairy farm, has very good infrastructure includes 50 aside HB shed, feed pad, usual farm buildings. 900 cows plus young stock, bulls and beef killers. 305,000 ms. 6 homes.Contour is flat to gentle roll approx 100 ha steep.This property lends itself to carbon farming, whilst the present owner has been grazing and milking the steeper land we consider that the approx 100 ha could be planted creating further income.

For Sale Price Upon Application ___________________________________ Agent Terry Court 021 754 233 tcourt@ljhmo.co.nz Ernie Pitcaithly 0274 956 082 ernie@ljhmo.co.nz

LJ Hooker Morrinsville (07) 889 8015

Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Central Waikato Realty Limited. Licensed Real Estate Agent REAA 2008. All information contained herein is gathered from sources we consider to be reliable. However, we cannot guarantee or give any warranty about the information provided. Interested parties must solely rely on their own enquiries.

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

RUA-WAI

Productive, picturesque and position perfect, 111 hectare Dairy Unit in renown Maharahara dairying district. 5 year average 92,779kg MS, predominantly flat fertile Kopua and Kairanga Silt Loam soils, consented irrigation system, quality three plus bedroom homestead, two bedroom employees cottage, 25 aside Herringbone cowshed, full range of farm buildings.

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 17, 2022

OPEN DAY

DANNEVIRKE

Ōtorohanga 67 Okoko Road Whether it be farmed as a dairy, or perhaps a change to an easy care dairy support/grazing or finishing block, the options are there for the taking with this multiple income earning property, in a price range that you will struggle to find elsewhere.

Craig Boyden M: 027 443 2738 O: 06 374 4105 E: craigb@forfarms.co.nz

Rua-wai is an attractive, special place to farm, conveniently located 9km to Dannevirke.

www.forfarms.co.nz - ID FF3335

• • • LK0110233©

Offers Over $4,800,000 + GST (if any) Viewing by appointment.

• • •

182.4345 hectares 83 ha utilised as dairy platform milking 230 cows 68 hectares of Manuka, along with additional native and pine areas Good standard of support buildings 20 aside cowshed Spacious two story four bedroom home

182.4345 ha

For Sale $2,950,000 Plus GST (if any) View Open Day 18 Jan at 11am - 1pm harcourts.co.nz/OH9386 Kerry Harty M 027 294 6215 E kjharty@harcourts.co.nz Peter Wylie (PGG Wrightson) M 027 473 5855 E pwylie@pggwrightson.co.nz

www.blueribbonharcourts.co.nz

RURAL | LIFESTYLE | RESIDENTIAL

Your one stop shop for rural Real Estate Get in touch with your agent today

Get in touch farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate with your agent today to list your property next to news that farmers read. Contact your agent to advertise today. 0800 85 25 80 farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate

CENTRAL OTAGO 193 Craig Flat Road 'Cruachan' Sheep, Beef and Deer Opportunity 977 Hectares. Situated in the Millers Flat district just 2km from amenities, 19km from Roxburgh and 59km Alexandra. Full range of improvements, a homestead and second house, woolshed and covered yards, two sets of cattle yards, deer shed and yards, satellite yards, implement sheds and haybarn. Approximately 174 hectares deer fenced, 57.5 hectares k-line irrigated from two water permits, stock water and domestic from bores plus natural sources. Five purchase options available. Phone or email for a copy of the Information Memorandum.

TENDER

Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold By Private Treaty) Closes 12.00pm, Friday 4 February

VIEW By Appointment Only

Craig Bates M 027 489 4361 E craig.bates@pggwrightson.co.nz Brent Irving M 027 457 7034 E brent.irving@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz/DUN35257 PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

Helping grow the country

T&T 39

Tech & Toys

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 17, 2022

SHEEP JETTER

farmersweekly.co.nz/advertising 0800 85 25 80

Serving NZ Farmers since 1962

Sheep dipping… made easier!

7680

LK0107793©

Price includes: • Jetter Unit • Pump & Motor • Hose Kit • Delivery to nearest main centre

+ GST

Serving NZ farmers since 1962

INNOVATIVE AGRICULTURE EQUIPMENT

SHEEP & BEEF DIRECT

Looking to buy or refinance a sheep or beef farm? Sheep and Beef Direct makes applying for a farm term loan quicker and easier. Our self-serve online application means the process is in your hands on your time.

www.pppindustries.co.nz sales@pppindustries.co.nz 0800 901 902

Why choose Heartland? Apply online in minutes No set-up fees or hidden costs Optional revolving credit facility Interest only options for 5 years

Visit heartland.co.nz/rural-loans

Heartland Bank’s responsible lending criteria, terms and conditions apply.

Stay protected this summer with TRAX Equipment ®

With another La Nina system hitting the country, we’ve got the gear to protect you from the rain and heat in the north and the dry heat in the south. Now is the perfect time to kit out your ATV or UTV to make life (and work) on NZ’s farms easier - and safer. Our entire range is available through your local motorcycle dealer.

0800 782 376 www.traxequipment.co.nz

40 T&T/Emp

Tech & Toys

farmersweekly.co.nz/advertising 0800 85 25 80

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 17, 2022

0800 901 902

7 NORTH ISLAND AGENTS

www.pppindustries.co.nz sales@pppindustries.co.nz

Northland to Manawatu

10 SOUTH ISLAND AGENTS

INNOVATIVE AGRICULTURE EQUIPMENT

Nelson to Invercargill

Require a feed system or an upgrade? • Rotary & Herringbone Sheds

• Skiold Disc Mills and Silos

Spare Parts: • Drive Units & Control Units • Flexi augurs, elbows

• Unloaders & Anchor bearings • Stainless pool cables 48mm & 90mm pulleys

LK0109872©

REQUIRE SPARE PARTS? Call PPP and get the BEST price

Primary Pathways – Jobs, Education & Training GENERAL MANAGER – GLENARAY STATION Glenaray Station is one of the largest scale breeding and finishing properties in NZ with 80,000su sheep, cattle and deer. It is based in the Waikaia Valley, Northern Southland and is made up of 4,000ha cultivated flats and downs, 5,000 ha oversown tussock and the balance being native. Our values: respect for our people, careful husbandry of our animals and good stewardship of our land and waterways. A strategic change in direction creates this new General Manager role, who will report to the board of directors (Chairman), and be responsible for achieving agreed livestock and financial performance levels for the business.

We are looking for a General Manager to lead the business forward, continuing the legacy of passionate and forward-thinking farmers delivering excellent business performance. For more information about this leading NZ farming business visit www.rakaiaisland.co.nz

The Role: General Manager The General Manager will deliver excellent performance across this farming business. Responsible for implementing the strategic plan, the role reports to the supportive family Board and independent Board Chair. With a diverse team of 40 employees and contract milkers, a core part of the role will be leading our people and supporting them to develop their capability: we are looking for a leader with the skills and passion to grow more leaders. A highly capable business team, leading-edge technology, quality infrastructure and assets support the General Manager.

We are seeking a forward thinking and motivated individual who can offer solutions to the challenges of our evolving primary sector. You need to be comfortable balancing hands-on, day-today operational oversight with providing leadership across the broader business.

To take a ‘virtual look’ at the property and to see a full job description or to apply, go to www.no8hr.co.nz (Ref#8HR1422).

• A positive and inspirational leader who fosters a cohesive culture based on shared purpose and strong family values; • A proven history of delivering high performance outcomes in a large-scale farming business; • Strong business and technical farming knowledge and skills, with the credibility to lead and influence in the paddock and the Board room; • Experience of successfully providing direction, empowering, motivating, mentoring and coaching others to achieve goals and objectives with personal accountability for performance.

*conditions apply

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

Livestock Marketing Manager Agricultural Specialist (Wellington) The U.S. Embassy in Wellington is seeking a full-time Agricultural Specialist. To be successful in the role you will have a minimum of three years work experience in at least one of the following: agricultural economics, agricultural policy, commodity trade and marketing analysis/research, that includes significant analysis and report writing. A Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics, Food and Agricultural Marketing, Agriculture, Agribusiness, or International Trade is also required. Responsibilities include researching and preparing reports and providing advice on assigned agricultural commodities and trade. The incumbent implements projects, resolves trade problems, and develops and maintains professional and social relationships.

Only apply if you’ve looked into the work of GlobalHQ, and feel you can add real value to our team. You must have a good understanding of the G-suite cloud computing tools and all the usual office computer products. Efficient administration skills and good writing accuracy is also expected.

You must have experience using the Microsoft Oﬃce Suite to create documents and spreadsheets, update databases and perform statistical data analysis. We are looking for someone with excellent time management skills and experience drafting detailed, complex reports on markets and trade policy, The starting salary is NZ$98,182 per annum. We also oﬀer some special benefits e.g. both U.S. and New Zealand holidays – a total of 20 days; and 8.7% employer contribution to employee retirement.

Your base will be at our head office in Feilding and your remuneration will reflect your skills and experience. We look forward to your application, sharing our vision, and getting to know you. Please request a job description and application form by emailing Cushla: hr@globalhq.co.nz Applications close Friday, January 28, 2022.

The full job description is available on our website: https://nz.usembassy.gov/job-opportunities Please submit your application using our online portal. For any questions, please email Wellington.HR@state.gov LK0110269©

LK0110179©

*FREE upload to Primary Pathways Aotearoa: www.facebook.com

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

You will bring a passion for the agricultural industry, and have qualified (or at least intuitive) marketing capabilities. You will be working with farmers and livestock industry stakeholders to bring their marketing, promotional and advertising budgets to life in Farmers Weekly and in digital media.

To be successful you will also bring the following attributes:

Applications close 28th January 2022.

This is an exciting opportunity for a proven performer to play a key role in the management and development of a large scale livestock farm. A modern 4-bedroom house is available.

We have an exciting role for someone who enjoys working with farmers, has great communication and organisational skills, relationshipbuilding abilities, and an innate talent for creating and developing new business opportunities.

What we are looking for:

If you are ready to apply for this opportunity, please submit your resume and cover letter by email to lynsey@primarypeople.co.nz.

The GM will have had senior farm management experience, an ability to lead and empower staff, experience with high pasture productivity and utilisation, and feed requirements for optimum production from livestock.

LK0110230©

Rakaia Island combines leading farming practices with a peoplecentric culture built on strong family values.

To Apply

Agricultural Specialist Fencer General General Manager Labourer Operations Manager

LK0109661©

The Turner family have grown the Rakaia Island business from humble beginnings to milking 9000 cows across six dairy units with integrated support blocks in two Canterbury locations (Rakaia Island, Southbridge and Woodstock, Oxford).

farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz

U.S. Government employees must complete medical and security checks. The U.S. Government is not able to sponsor a work visa for applicants who do not already have work authorization for New Zealand. Applications close Monday, 14 February 2022.

LK0110231©

The business

This position is based at Rakaia Island and offers an attractive remuneration package. A full position description for the role is available online at www.primarypeople.co.nz/current-jobs

JOBS BOARD

Classifieds 41

Noticeboard

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 17, 2022

ANIMAL HANDLING

COTTAGE WANTED

DOGS FOR SALE

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

RENTAL FARM cottage wanted for small family, Northland. 09 436 3628 / 027 385 8209.

WE HAVE A TOP selection of young Huntaways for sale. We are not traders we are breeders trainers and sellers based in Southland. Transport to the North Island no problem. Join us on facebook workingdogsnewzealand. Check out our web site w w w. r i n g w a y k e n n e l s . co.nz. Ringway Kennels. Phone 027 248 7704.

ONE 18-MONTH Huntaway dog AND one 5-week old Heading pup. Phone 027 243 8541.

ATTENTION FARMERS 40c/50c PER KG dags fadges/bales. Replacement woolpacks. PV Weber Wools. Kawakawa Road, Feilding. Phone 06 323 9550. RURAL LASS seeks working partnership on farm. Phone 027 419 3649.

BALAGE FOR SALE 600 BALAGE UNITS available. $85 per bale. Taihape. Phone 027 303 8956.

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

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

DEERLAND TRADING LTD buying deer velvet this season and paying above the average. Also contractor required to buy deer velvet. Payment on commission basis. Contact 021 269 7608.

DOGS FOR SALE P A R A P A R A / MAKIRIKIRI SDT CLUBS annual sheep dog sale on Sunday 23rd January 2022 at 966 Ruatangata Road, Whangaehu. Sign posted from SH3. Auction 12 noon, viewing from 10.30am. Register dogs for sale with secretary Brenda O’Leary, email brenda.dog@inspire.net. nz or phone 06 342 7508. All enquiries to Duncan Atkinson, phone 06 342 6807 or auctioneer Chris Hay, phone 027 632 7177.

4-YEAR-OLD Heading bitch. Good farm dog but light on sheep, bark on cattle. Located Feilding, Phone 027 274 1478. HUNTAWAY,12 months old, b&t. Working. West Coast. Phone 021 409 474. SUMMER CLEARANCE SALE Huntaways and Headers. Deliver NZ Wide. Trial, Guaranteed! www.youtube.com/user/ mikehughesworkingdog/ videos – 07 315 5553.

GOATS WANTED

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

FARM MAPPING SIMPLIFY YOUR farm planning with practical, affordable and accurate maps from www. farmmapping.co.nz – contact us for a free quote.

FOR SALE SHEEP RAMPS (Portable), from trailer height to 3.6m high (4th deck). Safety rails on catwalk now available. Phone Graham Engineering 03 205 3870 or 027 436 2567.

FERAL GOATS WANTED. All head counted, payment on pick-up, pick-up within 24 hours. Prices based on works schedule. Experienced musterers available. Phone Bill and Vicky Le Feuvre 07 893 8916. GOATS WANTED. All weights. All breeds. Prompt service. Payment on pick up. My on farm prices will not be beaten. Phone David Hutchings 07 895 8845 or 0274 519 249. Feral goats mustered on a 50/50 share basis. GOATS. 40 YEARS experience mustering feral cattle and feral goats anywhere in NZ. 50% owner (no costs). 50% musterer (all costs). Phone Kerry Coulter 027 494 4194. WORD ONLY ADVERTISING. Phone Debbie on 0800 85 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 WORD ONLY ADVERTISING. Phone Debbie on 0800 85 25 80.

LOG BUYER HAULER CREW available for summer harvest. Wairarapa area. Phone 027 489 7036.

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

RAMS FOR SALE

WANTED TO BUY

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

HOUSES FOR REMOVAL. North Island. Phone 021 455 787.

WAITOHI WILTSHIRES Est. 2005. Certiﬁed organic commercial purebred Wiltshire ﬂock rigorously farmed in North Canterbury, with proven Arvidson Wiltshire genetics (high FE rams last 5 years). All stock (ewe lambs, rams) enquiries: David 027 556 6895. WORD ONLY ADVERTISING. Phone Debbie on 0800 85 25 80.

STOCK FEED MOISTURE METERS Hay, Silage dry matter, grain. www.moisturemeters.co.nz 0800 213 343.

TRACTOR PARTS JOHN DEERE 6620, rollover damage, dismantling Andquiparts. Phone 027 524 3356.

SAWN SHED TIMBER including Black Maire. Matai, Totara and Rimu etc. Also buying salvaged native logs. Phone Richard Uren. NZ Native Timber Supplies. Phone 027 688 2954. WHAT’S SITTING IN your barn? Don’t leave it to rust away! We pay cash for tractors, excavators, small crawler tractors and surplus farm machinery. Ford – Ferguson – Hitachi – Komatsu – John Deere and more. Tell us what you have no matter where it is in NZ. You never know.. what’s resting in your barn could be fattening up your wallet! Email admin@ loaderparts.co.nz or phone Colin on 0274 426 936 (No texts please)

w w w. e l e c t r o t e k . c o . n z STOP BIRDS NOW!

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

12-MONTH HEADING dog and bitch. Fast, strong, good stop, pulling sides. Station and trial potential. Nolan Timmins. Phone 027 932 8839.

ZON BIRDSCARER

electro-tek@xtra.co.nz

Phone: +64 6 357 2454

DE HORNER

CRAIGCO

HOOF TRIMMER

EARMARKERS

LK109878©

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

DEERLAND TRADING LTD

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

DOLOMITE

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

SHEEP JETTERS

0800 436 566

SHEEP JETTERS SINCE 1992

CRAIGCO SENSOR JET

Whether you are a farmer, farm advisor or lifestyler, we invite you to come along and learn about commercial walnut growing: • Low carbon emissions • Low nitrate leaching • Low chemical input • Healthy product • Beautiful environment to live and work!

06 8356863 . 021 061 1800

www.craigcojetters.com

THINK PRE BU IL T

• Kit set chiller / freezer rooms • Mono-block refrigeration units • Freezer / chiller rooms Built to order • Ice machines • Trailer mounted rooms • Repairs – service – installations

Email: chris@asaer.co.nz • Mobile 021 230 6904

www.asaer.co.nz

The New Zealand Walnut Industry Group and Walnuts New Zealand Co-operative Ltd are proud to present our Walnut Open Day, where you can come and learn about this emerging industry.

0800 85 25 80 classifi eds@globalhq.co.nz farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz

The open day will be held on a walnut orchard in the Rolleston/West Melton area of Canterbury you will be sent the address upon registration. We are also planning to video the day and make this available for later viewing – please keep an eye on the website below for updates.

NEW HOMES SOLID – PRACTICAL

WELL INSULATED – AFFORDABLE

Call or email us for your free copy of our plans Email: info@ezylinehomes.co.nz Phone: 0800 399 546 (EZYLINE) Web: www.ezylinehomes.co.nz

LK0109918©

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

We will have speakers covering growing conditions (soil, climate, time/labour commitment etc.), financial budget, environmental aspects (carbon footprint, nitrate leaching, water use), nutritional benefits of walnuts, and processing and products. You will have the opportunity to walk around a walnut orchard and see the machinery used. Registration is essential, but free.

LK0109814©

List it in the paper delivered to 77k+ rural mailboxes each week

Robust construction. Auto shut gate. Adjustable V panels Total 20 Jets. Lambs 5 jets. Side jets for Lice. Davey Twin Impeller Pump. 6.5 or 9.0 Hp motors

BTZ Forestry Marketing and Harvesting (Obtaining the best profits for our customers) Farmers/Woodlot owner Tired of waiting for someone to harvest your trees?

LK0110165©

Got something to sell?

Open day on commercial walnut growing - Canterbury 12 FEBRUARY 2022

Guaranteed Performance Save time and Money . Flystrike and Lice cost $$$ Quick to Set up . Easy to use . Job Done

ELITE REFRIGERATION LTD

LK0109450©

Looking to diversify your land use? Considered commercial walnut growing?

For more details, see: https://walnuts.org.nz/nz-walnut-open-day-2022/

We are not committed to one buyer that is how we get our customers the most profit we can. Set up to do the smaller, trickier wood lots. No job too big or too small.

Free quotes • Markets for all species Email: BTZforestry@gmail.com

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

Livestock Noticeboard

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 17, 2022

WILTSHIRE STUD DISPERSAL BANKHEAD SALE – DORSET DOWNS – SHEEP SALE THURSDAY 3RD FEB 2022 - 1PM SALE DAY January 19th, DISPERSAL SALE 1pm on Friday 2022 at 12 noon 21 January 2022

STOCK FOR SALE

15MTH FRSN BULLS 350-450kg

STOCK REQUIRED

White Dorper Stud , A/C Up The Road John & Tarsha Clemens Ashburton Showgrounds, viewing from 11am

STORE LAMBS Shorn 28-32kg and Entire MALE LAMBS 23-27kg 15MTH STEERS 330-380kg 2YR STEERS 450-560kg 15MTH HEIFERS 300-340kg GENUINE YOUNG BREEDING EWES

Flock No. 123 First registered in 2009 This is a top quality flock of Dorper sheep, run under commercial conditions. >80 Mixed Age Ewes >40 Ewe Lambs >15 Ram Lambs

Contact:

www.dyerlivestock.co.nz

Willy Pears: 027 641 0055 Andrew Heard: 021 272 7522

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

Symonds Rd, Waipara

Ross Dyer 0274 333 381

1479 Cust Road, Cust

Further Enquiries: Callum Dunnett (Hazlett) 027 462 0126 Simon Eddington (PGGW) 027 590 8612

Mt Cass Station

2431631v2

COLIN & LIZ SMITH Ph: 03 312 5765 • M: 027 209 9258 E: collie.liz@xtra.co.nz

TONY WI SON IVESTOCK ON FARM CLEARING SALE - Capital Stock

Anthony Cox – 0272 083 071 Brent Macaulay – 0212 200 850 Sale catalogue can be viewed on our website www.rurallivestock.co.nz

WAITUI WILTSHIRE ON FARM SALE

On account of SR & SA Barrow 174B Barrow Road (sign posted from main road) WAVERLEY

Southern Ram Sale

Dorper Sheep

At 12 Wairepu East Road, Taihape On Wednesday 26th January 2022 at 11:00am (light lunch provided)

Friday 11th February 2022

The no wool meat breed

FOR SALE: • 600 x ewe lambs • 160 x cast for age ewes • 90 x 2 tooth ewes • 20 x 2 tooth rams

MACHINERY – 10.30AM John Deere 4WD Gator, Set 10 Tandem Side by Side Discs, Cambridge Roller, Easy Flow Cultivator, Tyne Harrows, Suzuki Eiger 500 Quad Bike, Transport Tray, Set Prattley Yards (Galvanised Pipe), Tandem Axle flat deck trailer, Te Pari Weighing System, Tip Spraying System- Electric eye 500 Litre Plastic Tank, Honda Motor, Hay Elevator & Sweep, Spray Unit for Toyota Landcruiser, 24 H.P Petrol Fergusson Tractor, 35 H.P Petrol Fergusson Tractor, Fergusson Saw Bench, Fergusson Power Take oﬀ Pullies, Electric Fence Reels & Standards, 3 Point Linkage Bale Feeder, Tractor Back Blade, 200 Bales Lucerne Haylage - (12), 140 Bales Annual Haylage - (12), Lamp Feeding Equipment, Vet Marker, Hydraulic Hoist for Trailer, Chemical Pump/Oil Pump 2 Quad Bike Trailers & Crates, C-Dax Boom/Z Wiper/ Tank & Gun & Hose, Fence Posts / Gates, Kiwi Sizzler Portable BBQ, 2 Fisher & Paykel Fridges, 2 Fisher & Paykel Freezers, Cane Furniture and Sundry Tools & Equipment.

All mobs to be drafted into sale lines to suit all purchasers 3% rebate to internal & external livestock agents. Terms strictly cash unless prior arrangements have been made with the purchasing Company concerned.

• Excellent terminal sire and fat lamb proposition • High meat yielding carcasses • Self-shedding • High libido and fertile rams & ewes

FURTHER ENQUIRIES TO Carrfields Livestock Representative: Derek Mickleson 027 471 9025 or 06 388 1715

Visit our website

• Continuous breeding season • Outstanding for hogget mating producing small robust lambs LK011014©

VENDORS: Greg, Jocelyn & Charles Bennett 06 388 7555

Grant Bros. Property 517 Reaby Rd, Croydon Bush, Gore 60 kelso. Terminal rams

www.carrfieldslivestock.co.nz

• Suitable for lifestyle and commercial farms To find a registered breeder near you or to learn more about the breed check out:

www.nzsheep.co.nz/dorper

LK019825©

Thursday 27th January 2022

Plus a selection of our maternal breeds, including some of our top Hill-bred Romneys and kelso. Maternals ideal for hogget mating.

David Giddings (vendor) 027 229 9760

LIVESTOCK – 12.00 Noon Sheep – Capital Stock 750 1100 470 700

Romney 2 Tooth Ewes Romney 4 TH 6TH 4YR Ewes Romney 5 & 6 Ewes Romney Ewe Lamb Replacements (Multipules) 700 Store lambs 15 Suﬀolk Rams 30 Romney Rams

Wiltshire On Farm Auction

Cattle 112 3 ½ year Charolais, Sim, Angus, W/H Steers 30 2 ½ year Charolais, Sim, Angus, W/H Steers 33 18-month Angus, W/H Steers

8th Feb 2022 at 12pm Light Luncheon provided

Eftpos will be available. Covid compliance will apply.

For further information please contact: Tony Wilson 06 3465 900 Don Newland 027 2424 878 Steve & Shirley Barrow 027 466 6015

LK0110188©

All stock comes forward in excellent condition: Mixed aged ewes scanning 173 %, 2th ewes scanning 159 % (which have been supplied to the Waverley – Waitotara Dog Trial Club for their annual trials in the past). Romney Rams have been purchased from Holly Farms – Karere Holdings Suﬀolk Ram Breeder – Paki-iti Farms

LK0110228©

Advertise your livestock in the Farmers Weekly. It’s no bull. Contact Ella: 06 323 0761 / 027 602 4925 livestock@globalhq.co.nz farmersweekly.co.nz

Approximately

600 Ewe lambs 100 2th ewes

250 Cast for age ewes 30 Ram lambs

1019 Mangaorapa Rd. Porangahau Mary Taylor - Ph: 068555322 Emma & Andy Martin - Ph: 068555348

Email: taylors@glenbraestud.co.nz www.glenbraestud.co.nz

Terms: Cash on the day unless PGG Wrightsons current a/c holders. Eftpos available

Simon Smith, Genetics Specialist - 027 444 0733 Callum Stewart, National Genetics Manager - 027 280 2688 Sam Wright, Livestock Representative - 027 247 9035

Livestock Noticeboard

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 17, 2022

Check out Poll Dorset NZ on Facebook

WAIKATO PREMIER RAM FAIR Thursday 20th January, 2022 11.00am

SALE TALK A man and woman had been married for more than 60 years. They had shared everything. They had talked about everything. They had kept no secrets from each other except that the little old woman had a shoe box in the top of her closet that she had cautioned her husband to never to open or ask her about. For all these years, he had never thought about the box, but one day the little woman got very sick and the doctor said she would not recover.

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

MT & SM DAY LTD

Wiltshire Sale Rams, Ewes & Hoggets 9th February 2022 1pm For more information contact: Malcolm Day (03) 248 5008 Tom Day 0275855048 Or visit www.taratahills.co.nz

In trying to sort out their affairs, the little old man took down the shoe box and took it to his wife’s bedside. She agreed that it was the time that he should know what was in the box.

Frankton Saleyards. Meat Breeds: • 60 2th Poll Dorset • 40 2th Suffolk • 15 2th South Downs • 8 2th South Suffolk • 15 2th Suftex/Poltex • 15 Other Terminal Wool Breeds: • 8 2th Perendale • 4 2th Border Leicester

When he opened it, he found two crocheted dolls and a stack of money totalling $95,000. He asked her about the contents. “When we were to be married,” she said, “my grandmother told me the secret of a happy marriage was to never argue. She told me that if I ever got angry with you, I should keep quiet and crochet a doll.”

Contact: Cam Heggie 027 501 8182

The little old man was so moved; he had to ﬁght back the tears. Only two precious dolls were in the box. She had only been angry with him two times in all those years. He almost burst with happiness.

Brent Bougen 07 848 2544 or 027 210 4698

“Honey,’ he said, ‘that explains the dolls. but what about all this money? Where did it come from?” “Oh,’ she said, “that’s the money I made from selling the dolls.”

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!

NZ’s Virtual Saleyard

10.30am- Perendale Society- Perendale & Cheviot Auction 11.30am- South Island Premier Ram Auction 1.00pm- Clachanburn Elk Sale

Wednesday 19th January 2022

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.

11.30am-Kikitangeo Romney Stud Final Dispersal Sale 12.00pm Mt Cass Wiltshires Ram and Ewe Sale

Friday 21st January 2022 12.30pm-Waipuna Valley Farms Annual 15-month Heifer Sale

Tuesday 25th January 2022 1.00pm- Southern Shedding Sheep Sale

Thursday 27th January 2022 7.30pm-Mangapiri Downs Organic Stud Shire Hair Ram Sale

Regular Livestream coverage of five North Island Saleyards Head to bidr.co.nz to find out more.

Conditions apply

Key: Dairy

ANNUAL 15MNTH CATTLE SALE WAIPUNA VALLEY FARMS Friday 21st January, 12.30pm

THURSDAY 27TH JANUARY - 12PM

A/C KIWITAHI TRUST, PADDY & BRIGID LOWRY

1274 POIHIPI ROAD, TAUPO OFFERING:

• 900 Romney 2th ewes, August shorn, 60% lambed as hoggets • 1800 Romney 4th-5yr ewes, December shorn, to be sold in age groups A once in a lifetime opportunity to purchase top Romney ewes. The Flock was established in 1962 with Warere, St Ledger, Wai-Iti, Glenhope and Kiwitahi Romney bloodlines. Average flock scanning of 175%, Toxo, Vibrio and Salmonella vaccinated.

All enquiries welcome: Paddy Lowry - M 0274 472 339 | Richard Lamb - Livestock Rep - M 0274 930 739

Please note change of date. Tuakau Saleyards. Comprising 750 Cattle: • 340 Ang/Hfd Heifers • 160 Exotic Heifers (Devon & Simm) • 150 Charolais Heifers • 100 15Mnth Angus Steers • Farmed in large mobs on genuine hill country • Heifers guaranteed empty • Cattle in hand several days prior to sale • Trucked over 2 days • Cattle renowned for their shifting ability 2% Buying rebate paid to outside companies by prior arrangement. Videos of Heifers available on agonline. David Short (Vendor) 07 826 7763 Stephen Hickey (PGW) 027 444 3570 Watch and Bid from anywhere. More info visit www.bidr.co.nz Hybrid Livestreamed Auctions

MATAWHERO CATTLE SALE, GISBORNE NEXT SALE: Friday 18th Jan 2022, 11am

ALSO PRELIMINARY NOTICE:

Kiwitahi Romney Stud flock to be sold in February, enquiries to: Cam Heggie - Livestock Genetics Rep/Auctioneer | Northern North Island M +64 27 501 8182 | Email camheggie@pggwrightson.co.nz Helping grow the country

Tuesday, 15th Feb 2022, 11am

Sheep

Other

29TH ANNUAL ON FARM WEANED CALF AUCTION Tuesday 1st February 2022, 1.30pm

A/C Invernia Holdings. 140 King Road, Georgetown, North Otago Comprising approx: • 800 Friesian Bull Calves • 80 Friesian 18 month Bulls • 20 Friesian 18 month Steers All cattle on offer are owner bred & reared within a closed farming operation. All calves de-horned, drenched and weaned off nurse cows in December. TB Status C10. 1% Rebate to outside companies. Further enquiries: Wayne Fisher-Hewitt 027 405 8248 Mark Yeates (PGW Oamaru) 027 590 4217

CAPITAL STOCK EWE SALE, WAIMUMU, GORE PRELIMINARY NOTICE Thursday 3rd February, commencing 1.30pm

A/C Jon and Deborah Wood “Kone Burn“ 86 Kone Burn Road, Waimumu, Gore On the property. • 5500 Perendale MA Ewes Bred by Heights Stud, Shannon, Rob and Heather Gaskin from 1996. Full advertisement with ages, production, animal health, will be on line, and in later papers 22 and 29 January. Greg Clearwater (PGW) 027 591 8045 Jon Wood 021 064 5408

• 565 2.5yr Ang Strs • 100 2.5yr Exotic Strs

Contact Ella: 0800 85 25 80 or email livestock@globalhq.co.nz

Cattle

Special Entry: A/c Morunga Station, Matawai • 150 2.5yr Ang/Hfd Strs

Ready to talk some Bull?

UPCOMING AUCTIONS

Tuesday 18th January 2022

ON FARM COMMERCIAL ROMNEY FLOCK DISPERSAL AUCTION

www.pggwrightson.co.nz

[ RAM SALES ]

Several lines of quality home bred hill country cattle. Contact: Jamie Hayward 027 434 7586

www.pggwrightson.co.nz/ramsales

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

Helping grow the country

MARKET SNAPSHOT

Market Snapshot brought to you by the AgriHQ analysts.

Mel Croad

Suz Bremner

Reece Brick

Fiona Quarrie

Hayley O’Driscoll

Caitlin Pemberton

Deer

Sheep

Cattle BEEF

SHEEP MEAT

VENISON

Last week

Prior week

Last year

NI Steer (300kg)

6.15

6.20

4.90

NI lamb (17kg)

8.80

8.85

6.50

NI Stag (60kg)

6.90

5.60

NI Bull (300kg)

6.15

6.20

4.90

NI mutton (20kg)

6.10

4.80

SI Stag (60kg)

6.90

6.80

5.60

NI Cow (200kg)

4.60

4.70

3.50

SI lamb (17kg)

8.30

8.60

6.40

SI Steer (300kg)

6.00

6.10

4.60

SI mutton (20kg)

5.90

6.10

4.80

SI Bull (300kg)

5.90

6.00

4.60

Export markets (NZ$/kg)

SI Cow (200kg)

4.90

4.60

3.40

UK CKT lamb leg

13.97

13.82

9.48

US imported 95CL bull

10.27

7.16

US domestic 90CL cow

9.00

6.62

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

Last week Prior week

Last year

Export markets (NZ$/kg)

5.0

5.5

$/kg CW

4.5 4.0 South Island steer slaughter price

7.0

$/kg CW

South Island lamb slaughter price

5.5

5.0

Apr

Jun

2020-21

Dairy

Aug 2021-22

Oct

Dec 5-yr ave

Feb

Apr 2020-21

Jun

Prior week

Last year

2.55

2.60

2.02

37 micron ewe

2.10

30 micron lamb

Urea

1190

614

Super

368

300

DAP

1308

799

$/tonne Sep-21 Nov-21 Sept. 2022

Company

YTD High

YTD Low

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corporation Ltd

31.88

33.4

31.54

Meridian Energy Limited (NS)

4.77

4.97

4.565

Auckland International Airport Limited

7.78

7.885

7.56

Mainfreight Limited

91.9

94.4

90.02

440

Mercury NZ Limited (NS)

6.11

6.36

5.905

420

Spark New Zealand Limited

4.45

4.57

4.42

400

Ebos Group Limited

39.82

43.13

39.02

340

Jan-22

NZ average (NZ$/t)

Top 10 by Market Cap

Contact Energy Limited

360 Nov-20

Jan-21

Mar-21

May-21

Jul-21

Sep-21

Nov-21

7.9

8.15

7.7

Ryman Healthcare Limited

12.18

12.53

11.81

Infratil Limited

8.19

8.34

Listed Agri Shares Company

DAIRY FUTURES (US$/T)

SMP

CANTERBURY FEED BARLEY

Last price*

Prior week

vs 4 weeks ago

3990

4025

460

3650

440

3740

3690

480

$/tonne

WMP

Aug 2021-22

Last year

380

Nearby contract

Jun

Prior week

CANTERBURY FEED WHEAT

May-21 Jul-21 Sept. 2021

Apr 2020-21

Last week

460

Mar-21

Feb

FERTILISER Last week

480

Jan-21

Dec 5-yr ave

Fertiliser

Aug 2021-22

Grain

Data provided by

MILK PRICE FUTURES 9.50 9.00 8.50 8.00 7.50 7.00 6.50 6.00 5.50

Oct

7.0

Coarse xbred ind. Feb

7.0 6.0

(NZ$/kg) Dec

8.0

WOOL

5.0

5-yr ave

9.0

6.0

4.5

$/kg MS

10.0

5.0

Oct

South Island stag slaughter price

6.0

6.5

4.0

7.0

11.0

10.0

5.0

8.0

5.0

7.0

6.0

9.0

6.0

8.0

6.0

Last year

10.0

9.0

6.5

Last week Prior week

North Island stag slaughter price

11.0

$/kg CW

7.0

10.0 $/kg CW

North Island steer slaughter price

North Island lamb slaughter price

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

$/kg CW

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

Sarah Hilhorst

Ingrid Usherwood

420

5pm, close of market, Thursday Close

YTD High

YTD Low

ArborGen Holdings Limited

0.24

0.265

0.24

The a2 Milk Company Limited

5.76

5.96

5.7

Comvita Limited

3.67

3.7

3.52

Delegat Group Limited

14.16

14.3

13.88

Fonterra Shareholders' Fund (NS)

3.69

3.76

3.62

Foley Wines Limited

1.51

1.57

1.51

Greenfern Industries Limited

0.225

0.235

0.22

AMF

6085

5985

400

Livestock Improvement Corporation Ltd (NS)

1.4

Butter

5250

380

Marlborough Wine Estates Group Limited

0.24

0.26

0.24

9.02

360

New Zealand King Salmon Investments Ltd

1.33

1.38

1.33

340

PGG Wrightson Limited

5.13

5.18

5.1

Rua Bioscience Limited

0.47

0.475

0.435

Sanford Limited (NS)

5.02

4.85

Scales Corporation Limited

5.22

5.57

5.22

Seeka Limited

5.28

5.36

5.23 3.39

Milk Price

9.15

9.03

* price as at close of business on Thursday

Nov-20

Mar-21

May-21

Jul-21

Sep-21

Nov-21

WAIKATO PALM KERNEL

4400

450

Synlait Milk Limited (NS)

3.53

3.54

T&G Global Limited

2.9

3.01

2.9

4200

400

S&P/NZX Primary Sector Equity Index

14111

14284

14111

350

S&P/NZX 50 Index

12827

13150

12804

4000

S&P/NZX 10 Index

12460

12725

12397

$/tonne

US$/t

WMP FUTURES - VS FOUR WEEKS AGO

Jan-21

3800 3600

300 250

Dec

Jan Feb Latest price

Mar

Apr 4 weeks ago

May

200

Nov-20

S&P/FW PRIMARY SECTOR EQUITY

Jan-21

Mar-21

May-21

Jul-21

Sep-21

Nov-21

14111

S&P/NZX 50 INDEX

12827

S&P/NZX 10 INDEX

12460

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

Analyst intel

WEATHER

Overview The first of these reports for the year starts off with a bang, as we have ex Tropical Cyclone Cody potentially affecting the North Island right now, especially in the east. There may have been some movement in the track of this system between time of writing and what actually has ended up happening, but currently the eastern North Island looks to cop it in terms of heavy rain, strong winds and heavy swells. Conditions ease on Tuesday, with the low unravelling and losing its strength before moving away to the southeast. A cold front pushes northwards on Wednesday, bringing rain or showers for the South Island before moving onto the North Island on Thursday.

14-day outlook Naturally this week, especially today, will mainly be dominated by ex Tropical Cyclone Cody’s arrival to the North Island and in tow comes heavy rain, strong winds and large swells affecting northeastern parts of the North Island as it moves through. Tuesday sees this depression ease with all conditions easing before moving away to the southeast overnight. Wednesday some relief for the South Island is due as a cold front moves northwards bringing rain; this reaches the North Island on Thursday. Friday a high starts to push in from the Tasman Sea, bringing in settled weather. Remaining showers clear the North Island on Saturday, then we have a period of settled weather, however, at the end of the month rain or showers may move back in.

Soil Moisture

Highlights

13/01/2022

Wind

The strongest winds this week will be today in the form of east to southeasterly winds for the northeastern North Island; gales are possible too, anywhere from Coromandel, the Bay of Plenty and down through to Wairarapa, especially coastal areas. Source: NIWA Data

7-day rainfall forecast

Temperature

Anywhere east of about Auckland may see rain or showers today; the heaviest rain will be from East Cape down through to Wairarapa, with torrential falls possible due to ex Tropical Cyclone Cody. Rain eases overnight and into Tuesday, at which point some rain may start getting into northeastern parts of the South Island. A cold front moves northwards over the South Island on Wednesday, bringing rain before reaching the North Island on Thursday, however, the front does ease as it moves northwards. 0

Very warm around New Zealand today, with highs in the mid to late 20s. Although the east coast of the North Island sticks in the late teens or early 20s. Hot everywhere on Tuesday, then we start to see a cool down from Wednesday as a cold front moves in.

Highlights/ Extremes

Beef prices off to a strong start

100

200

400

Rainfall accumulation over seven days from 7am on Monday, January 17 to 7am on Monday, January 24. Forecast generated at 1am on Friday, January 14.

The main highlight for this outlook is ex Tropical Cyclone Cody, which is affecting the North Island today before easing tomorrow. Beyond potential heavy rain and strong winds, large swells will be an issue for coastal northeastern parts of the North Island.

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

Mel Croad mel.croad@globalhq.co.nz

N CHINESE tradition, 2021 was the year of the Ox. For New Zealand beef producers this was certainly the case, with farm gate beef prices recovering from a stuttering start in January 2021 to hit record highs late in the year. AgriHQ data shows 12 months ago beef prices were at a seven-year low in the North Island, with bull and prime choking at $4.90/kg. Fortunately, that was as bad the North Island got with prices managing to stabilise just over $5/kg through to April. In the South Island prices started 2021 at a four-year low and continued to ease by another 15-20c/kg until April. April was the turning point for farm gate prices. The foodservice sector finally showed sustained recovery in key global markets, sparking demand for NZ beef. This drove export values higher, which flowed onto the farm gate. However, it wasn’t until June that farm gate beef prices really gathered momentum. By this stage prices were lifting by almost 10c/kg per week, outpacing the usual trends seen through this part of the season. North Island prices peaked in November at $6.50$6.60/kg for prime and bull respectively as markets clamoured over themselves to secure NZ beef before processing closures due to Christmas. Interestingly, farm gate beef prices managed to soar despite higher cattle kill rates of last year. The NZ cattle kill surpassed five-year average levels several times between February and April and then again right through the winter months and into spring. Strong international demand cancelled out downward pressure that may have otherwise appeared due to the high kill numbers. Estimated cattle slaughter data for 2021 up to December 18 shows 2.7 million cattle were slaughtered and processed. This compares with 2.68m for the full calendar year in 2020 and almost 200,000 head more than 2017. Simply put, national slaughter rates have been increasing year-on-year for at least the last four years. This is flowing through to much higher export volumes,

with 2021 exports (calendar year) almost up by 100,000 tonnes on four years ago. High farm gate beef prices over the past year reflect strong international demand and increased export values paid for NZ beef. While NZ has had a lot more beef to offer willing international markets than normal, it hasn’t been enough to tip prices in the wrong direction. It is possible Australia has played a part in this, as their 2021 beef exports fell to a 36-year low of 888,000t. Only two years ago, amid the height of their last drought, export volumes peaked at 1.29 million tonnes.

Beef finishers are still enjoying record prices on offer, despite ongoing covid-19 headwinds.

Our reliance on China as a key importer of NZ beef grew even stronger last year. In the 12 months to December 31, China absorbed over 213,000t or 39% of our total beef exports. This was up from 173,000t in 2020. Easier shipping access to our key Asian markets compared to the congested US ports may also have helped drive exports to these markets higher. Japan also recorded strong volume growth, importing close to 36,000t of NZ beef, over 10,000t higher than the five-year average. The US remained a very important market for NZ beef. Last year 30% was shipped there. But at 166,000t, volumes were back year-on-year by over 6000t. This was despite the consistently high, and at times near record, imported prices on offer. Much weaker competition from Australia within this market and solid domestic demand also paved the way for strong import prices. Now as 2022 gets under way, beef finishers are still enjoying record prices on offer, despite ongoing covid-19 headwinds. Across the country, current AgriHQ farm gate prices for bull and steer are averaging $1.20-$1.30/kg more than this time last year. This equates to an extra $360-$390/hd on a 300kg carcase weight cattle beast.

SALE YARD WRAP

Mixed results for the market restart Auction activity has been plentiful nationwide as everyone returns from holiday. Most areas are still carrying a bit of extra feed from the good late-spring/early-summer, which when married with good schedules have kept most stock classes well supported. Two-tooths have been especially strong in the North Island, maxing out at $302 at Stortford Lodge and $286 at Masterton. Drier conditions in the upper-North Island are making the cattle market there less impressive though. Yearling dairy-beef steers were mostly $2.80-$3.05/kg at Te Kuiti and Tuakau fairs. NORTHLAND Wellsford store cattle • Most yearling Hereford steers, 361-410kg, held at $3.19-$3.29/kg • Yearling Murray Grey-cross heifers, 350kg, realised $3.11/kg • Nine 353kg Friesian bulls pushed to $3.03/kg • Hereford-Friesian steers, 182kg, realised $500 Just over 360 cattle were offered at WELLSFORD last Monday with the majority good quality dairy-beef. Yearling beef-cross, exotic-cross, and dairy-beef steers, 350-430kg, mostly eased to $3.01-$3.12/kg. Murray Grey-Friesian, 350-366kg, held at $2.99-$3.07/kg. Heifers were close on the males’ heels. Hereford-Friesian, 338kg, realised $3.11/kg and the majority of the balance, 323-383kg, fetched $2.98$3.08/kg. Weaner Hereford-dairy steers, 168kg, earned $510 and same breed heifers, 190kg, $580. Read more in your LivestockEye.

COUNTIES Tuakau sales • Hereford-Friesian steers, 433kg, made $3.00/kg • Prime heifers reached $3.04/kg • Heavy ewes sold well at $180-$245 A quality offering of 640 dairy-beef steers was presented at TUAKAU on Thursday, PGG Wrightson agent Craig Reiche reported. Ranging from 15-months to 30-months, most were Hereford-Friesian and included 596kg at $2.88/ kg and 460kg, $2.97/kg. Angus-Friesian, 428kg, made $2.77/ kg and younger Hereford-Friesian, 339-388kg, $3.03-$3.11/ kg. Wednesday’s prime sale drew a yarding of 485-head and the market eased 5-10c/kg. Heavy steers traded at $2.90$3.02/kg, with medium at $2.82-$2.90/kg and light, $2.59 to 2.87/kg. Heavy heifers realised $2.93-$3.04/kg, medium $2.85-$2.93/kg and light, $2.78-$2.85/kg. Well-conditioned Friesian cows managed $1.81-$1.99/kg, with light-medium boners at $1.40/kg to $1.81/kg. Heavy prime lambs made $167-$183 on Monday, with medium at $142-$167 and light, $115-$142. A small offering of store lambs ranged from $70 to $140, and the best of the prime ewes fetched $180 to $245. Medium ewes returned $140 to $180 and lighter types sold down to $60.

WAIKATO Frankton cattle 11.1 • Two-year Hereford-Friesian steers, 469-483kg, eased to $2.75$2.78/kg • Eight very good yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 430kg, realised $2.94/kg • Prime bulls, 580-665kg, fetched $3.25-$3.28/kg Yearlings provided the bulk of the 300 head of cattle presented by PGG Wrightson at FRANKTON last Tuesday. Quality autumn-born yearling Hereford-Friesian heifers, 456kg, managed $1315, $2.88/kg. Yearling Hereford-Friesian and red factor steers, 322-360kg, managed $3.01-$3.04/kg and Limousin-Friesian steers, 441kg, had good competition to reach $2.93/kg. Hereford-Friesian heifers, 401-422kg, were secured for $2.76-$2.82/kg with 308kg at $2.89/kg. Friesian bulls, 320-357kg, softened to $2.77-$2.81/kg. Three boner Friesian cows, 530kg, managed $2.15/kg, though $1.59/kg to $1.74/kg was more common for the balance. Read more in your LivestockEye. Frankton cattle 12.1 • Two-year steers, 464-517kg, traded at $2.74-$2.82/kg • Yearling Angus-cross steers, 323-359kg, realised $2.81-$2.85/kg • Eight quality prime Speckle Park-cross steers, 613kg, fetched $1880, $3.07/kg Store and prime cattle throughput were almost an equal split at FRANKTON last Wednesday for New Zealand Farmers Livestock’s yarding of just over 400 cattle. Twoyear Jersey bulls, 393kg, earned $2.75/kg. Quality yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 273-355kg, returned $2.78-$2.87/ kg and five Speckle Park, 352kg, fetched $2.80/kg. However, $2.50-$2.75/kg was more common for the balance of this section. Hereford-dairy heifers, 358-394kg, returned $2.51$2.55/kg. Boner Friesian cows, 499-568kg, realised $1.78/ kg to $1.95/kg and 442-496kg, $1.65/kg. The better end of prime heifers, 503-518kg, realised $2.92-$2.97/kg. Hereford

bulls, 696kg, firmed to $3.43/kg while the balance, 611745kg, earned $3.22-$3.29/kg. Hereford cows, 391-551kg, managed $2.43-$2.60/kg. Read more in your LivestockEye. Frankton dairy-beef weaner fair • Angus-Friesian bulls, 125-255kg, were mainly $490-$605 • Hereford-Friesian heifers, 115-153kg, came back to $45-$485, with lighter types at $365-$420 Nearly 900 weaners were offered at FRANKTON last Thursday where continuing dry conditions softened the market. The average dairy-beef steer at 140kg eased to $540. Better Angus-Friesian heifers, 157-182kg, managed $430$500 with 102-119kg at $360-$405. The best of the HerefordFriesian bulls was nine at 135kg which reached $640, while $495-$580 covered most 105-124kg. Top Friesian bulls, 215-225kg, earned $600-$640, whilst the balance, 100149kg, returned a mainly softer $380-$505. Read more in your LivestockEye.

KING COUNTRY Te Kuiti 15-month steer and bull fair and 2-tooth ewe fair • Te Kuiti 15-month steers and bulls and 2-tooth ewe fair • 15-month Hereford bulls, 506kg, achieved $1510, $3.17/kg • Capital stock 2-tooth Romney and Romdale ewes fetched $231$260 Outside support combine with local buyers at the TE KUITI 15-month Hereford-Friesian and Angus-Friesian Steer and Bull Fair last Monday. Around 1000 head was offered and 460-537kg steers made $2.95-$3.07/kg. Friesian bulls, 283kg, achieved $2.99/kg and lighter types $2.80/kg. There was around 7500 2-tooth ewes offered to mostly local buyers on Friday. Coopworth-Romney sold well with the best $292-$330 and the next cut $260-$292. Romney-Texel ewes sold for $190, and the second and third cuts regardless of breed made around $120-$160.

BAY OF PLENTY Rangiuru cattle and sheep • Ten 2-year Hereford-Friesian steers, 432kg, collected $3.01/kg • Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 390kg, fetched $3.15/kg • Yearling Angus-Friesian heifers, 457kg, made $2.89/kg • Hereford bulls, 636-643kg, traded at $3.30-$3.40/kg A smaller than usual yarding of store cattle was penned at RANGIURU last Thursday and met a steady market. All 2-year steers were dairy-beef and mostly returned $2.86-$2.93/kg and heifers, $2.88-$2.91/kg. Six Hereford bulls were farmed on at $1930. Better-marked yearling Hereford-Friesian heifers, 283kg, traded at $2.79/kg. Jersey bulls, 365-384kg, made $2.84-$2.99/kg. Weaner Friesian bulls, 151kg, earned $480 and Hereford-Friesian, 140kg, reached $575. Prime steers mostly fetched $3.07-$3.10/kg and Murray Grey-cross heifers $3.02/kg. Top prime lambs collected $166 and medium stores $100-$116. Read more in you LivestockEye.

POVERTY BAY Matawhero sheep • Heavy prime lambs made $186-$200, medium $125-$140 and light $100-$112 • Heavy prime 2-tooth ewes fetched $188-$192 and the balance mostly $120-$155 • Store ewe lambs typically fetched $80-$111 Top store male lambs held at $120-$140 at MATAWHERO last Friday with medium $101-$116 and light $72-$78. The bulk of the mixed-sex lambs earned $101-$114.50 and lighter types $82. Store ewes were limited though the best consisted of shorn Romney at $120 with the balance $87$111. Read more in your LivestockEye. Puketoro on-farm sale • Cryptorchid Romdale lambs made $95-$122 • 4-tooth and 6-tooth Romdale ewes achieved $240-$253 • Yearling Angus steers, 350-390kg, made $1260, $3.36-$3.41/kg The 6th annual PUKETORO on-farm sale last Monday drew a great turnout of buyers and prices paid for the 6800 sheep and 900 cattle offered either met or exceeded

expectations Central Livestock agent Shane Scott reported. The top 2-tooth ewes earned $250-$272 and 5-year ewes realised $206-$216. Yearling Angus and Angus-cross steers above 390kg fetched $1420, $3.19/kg. Lighter steers around 350kg and below traded at $1000-$1090, $3.28/kg to $3.44/ kg.

TARANAKI Taranaki cattle • Top 3-year steers made $3.23/kg • Good 2-year Hereford steers, 515-552kg, fetched a premium at $3.19-$3.22/kg • Top 2-year heifers earned $2.80-$2.88/kg • Yearling heifers mostly traded at $2.80-$2.90/kg Just over 600 head was presented at TARANAKI last Wednesday which gave a better indication of where the store cattle market is sitting. The two-year dairy-beef steer average eased from pre-Christmas levels to $3.07/ kg, though better types were more resilient at $3.16-$3.19/ kg. Yearling steers had the biggest price correction and the average dropped to $2.87/kg though the top pens realised $3.17-$3.21/kg. Read more in your LivestockEye. Annual Matau ewe fair • Six-year ewes earned $156-$165 • A handful of South Suffolk rams made $400, and Hampshire rams $500 Around 1200 ewes were offered at the annual MATAU ewe fair held at the Matau sale yards last Friday. The usual repeat buyers turned up and vendors were pleased with results. The best of the 5-year ewes sold to $176, with the balance down to $162. Taranaki dairy-beef weaner fair • Weaner dairy-beef bulls sold well with the average up $50 to $600 • Weaner dairy-beef heifers typically made $400-$500 with better types $510-$560 • A line of traditional heifers, 190kg, achieved $650 Almost 1350 good-quality calves were offered at the TARANAKI dairy-beef weaner fair last Thursday. Friesian bulls eased though an active Northland buyer helped support prices and those around 150-180kg typically traded at $480-$515 with weights needing to be above 200kg to reach $560-$570. Dairy-beef steers above 150kg reached $640-$680, and very nice 223kg Shorthorn-Hereford steers sold well to $730. Read more in your LivestockEye.

HAWKE’S BAY Stortford Lodge prime sheep • Vey good to heavy mixed-age ewes held at $150-$172 • The majority of good ewes softened to $131-$134.50 • Rams were consistent at $91-$99 • Top mixed-sex lambs held at $190 Ewes numbered just under 2370 at STORTFORD LODGE last Monday and most traded at softer levels. The top end of good condition ewes held at $145-$147. Light-medium to medium-good types eased to $105-$127, as did light ewes back to $72-$104. A handful of hoggets were penned and managed $170. Just 110 lambs were presented and the bulk of good to heavy types softened slightly to $138-$177. Read more in your LivestockEye. Stortford Lodge store cattle and sheep • Heavy cryptorchid store lambs realised $142 • Two-year Friesian and Friesian-cross bulls made $2.87/kg • Good yearling Hereford-beef steers, 338kg, from the Chathams made $2.97/kg • Yearling Hereford heifers, 315kg, fetched $3.02/kg The store lamb tally lifted to just over 6200 head at STORTFORD LODGE last Wednesday and the average store lamb value dropped down almost $9 to $103. Store ram lambs typically averaged $100-$105 with the best at $128. Top mixed-sex lambs earned $117-$121 and ewe lambs $100-$111. Yearling Angus steers, 283-339kg, were solid at $3.02-$3.08/kg and quality heifers weighing 333-337kg achieved $3.07/kg. Mixed-age Angus cows were steady at $2.20-$2.27/kg.

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022

Well-finished steers were particularly easy to sell at Coalgate last Thursday and $3.20-$3.30/kg returns were common, including the heaviest Angus-Friesian and Hereford-Friesian. Straight Friesian, 475-555kg collected $2.94-$3.04/kg. Traditional heifers upwards of 515kg traded at $3.18-$3.26/kg. Yearling Hereford-cross steers, 374kg, earned $2.70/kg and better-marked Angus-Hereford heifers, 263-293kg, made $3.27-$3.28/kg. Weaner Herefordcross bulls, 132kg, fetched $470 and 23 Friesian, 112kg, $435. Medium to good store lambs collected $100-$126 and lighter types $90-$98. Heavy prime lambs earned $180$208, good $160-$179 and mediums $141-$159. Ewes met a slightly softer market and the common medium types returned $140-$177. Read more in you LivestockEye.

SOUTH-CANTERBURY BLACKOUT: Angus and Angus-Friesian cattle penned up at the recent Feilding bullock fair. The nearest pen of Angus, 470kg, sold for $3.15/kg or $1480, while the 600kg Angus-Friesian were $2.94/kg or $1760. Stortford Lodge ewe fair • Top Romney two-tooth ewes made $298-$302 • Top five-year Romney ewes were $210-$222 A yarding of almost 13,000 ewes of all ages, mostly Romney, were well supported at STORTFORD LODGE last Tuesday. The two-tooths were the major highlight where two lines broke $300, while most of the other good lines were $260-$290, with little else selling below $220. The fourtooth and six-tooth market was primarily $230-$250. Older ewes were a little less exciting selling but still did well. Most were five-year lines with the better half $190-$220 and the rest $160-$180. Read more in your LivestockEye.

MANAWATŪ Feilding prime cattle and sheep • A small pen of well-finished Suffolk lambs earned top dollar of $189 • Heaviest ewes traded at $169-$171 • A single Speckle Park bull, 740kg, fetched $3.50/kg Auctioning of lambs was hard going at FEILDING last Monday for the larger than average tally. Good types returned $166.50-$176.50, the middle tier $155-$161 and lighter options $132-$152. Ewes were slightly easier to shift though lacked condition. Good pens traded at $158-$159 though many were mediums at $135-$150 and lighter, $100-$130. Hereford bulls mostly collected $3.39-$3.47/kg and the heaviest Jersey, 550kg, fetched $3.11/kg. Shorthorn heifers, 550-610kg, made $2.81/kg and similar Angus, $2.90/kg. Read more in your LivestockEye.

Wednesday recorded a big lift on last year’s prices. The bulk of the yarding were 450-630kg traditional breeds which all sold for $3.15-$3.25/kg while some 660kg South DevonAngus made $3.15/kg. The 585-605kg Hereford-Friesian were $3.00-$3.05/kg whereas a large consignment of 455600kg Angus-Friesian were $2.85-$3.00/kg. Read more in your LivestockEye. Feilding dairy-beef weaner fair • Weaner Hereford-Friesian steers, 145-150kg, sold for $670-$675 • Weaner Simmental-Friesian bulls, 140-150kg, made $600 • Weaner Simmental-Friesian heifers, 120-125kg, made $490-$530 A small yarding of dairy-beef weaners met a weaker market at FEILDING last Thursday. For the Friesian bulls, $395-$435 covered most of the 110-125kg lines with $505$550 paid for a number of 145-155kg pens. Some 110kg Belgian Blue-Friesian bulls were $520 while 105-110kg Hereford-Friesian heifers made $480-$490. Read more in your LivestockEye.

WAIRARAPA Masterton 2-6th ewe fair Approximately 6000 two-tooth to six-tooth ewes sold to a strong market at MASTERTON last Wednesday, mainly underpinned by local and Manawatu buyers. Buyers were attracted by both annual draft lines and three main capital stock consignments, primarily Romney with some RomneyTexel. Top price was $286, the rest of the sale not far below this. Barely anything made less than $240.

Feilding store cattle and sheep • Two-year Friesian bulls, 490-570kg, were $3.05-$3.25/kg • Purebred yearling Simmental steers, 510-560kg, made $3.30/kg • Yearling dairy-beef steers, 270-365kg, were $2.80-$2.95/kg • Store lambs averaged $114 The 1300 store cattle at FEILDING were a touch weaker. Two-year dairy-beef steers, 540-580kg, were $2.90-$3.00/ kg. Autumn-born R2 traditional heifers, 420-460kg, made $2.85-$2.95/kg. Straight-beef steers, 340-480kg, were mostly back to $3.05-$3.25/kg. Yearling Friesian bulls, 355-420kg, all sold for $2.80-$2.95/kg while straight-beef yearling heifers were $2.90-$3.10/kg. A little more than 9000 lambs sold at softer prices on average. Though the waters were muddied somewhat by shorn lambs making premiums of up to $10 compared to woollier lambs. Top price was $141.50 but the other heavier lambs were mostly $130-$135. Good lambs were mainly $115-$130, mediums $100$115, and the lighter lines $80-$100. Read more in your LivestockEye.

Canterbury Park cattle and sheep • Speckle Park-cross steers, 543-640kg, fetched $3.40-$3.46/kg • Two Angus bulls, 763kg, collected $3.32/kg • The top pen of 32 prime lambs earned $208-$229 The prime cattle market held at CANTERBURY PARK last Tuesday as traditional steers returned $3.27-$3.38/kg. Heavier Hereford-Friesian steers, 570-705kg, made $3.24$3.30/kg and heifers $3.19-$3.21/kg. Traditional bulls, 513-615kg, earned $3.18-$3.20/kg. Better 2-year HerefordFriesian steers collected $3.02/kg as did Angus-cross heifers, 364kg. Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 239kg, made $2.93/kg. Preferred store lambs fetched around $130 for heavier types, $110 for mediums and smaller $90. Finer wool lambs mostly earned $10 a head less. Prime markets were steady as medium lambs returned $156-$177. Good ewes traded at $179-$208 and mediums $154-$173. Read more in your LivestockEye.

Feilding bullock fair • Traditional steers averaged $3.21/kg, 560kg • Dairy-beef steers averaged $2.96/kg, 530kg The annual 2.5-year bullock fair at FEILDING last

Coalgate cattle and sheep • Speckle Park-cross steers, 517kg, fetched $3.42/kg • Heaviest store lambs earned $136 • A pen of 14 top prime lambs made $220

Temuka prime cattle, all sheep • Heaviest prime lambs fetched $196 • Medium prime lambs held at $160-$179 • Better prime beef heifers fetched $3.15-$3.23/kg • Prime bulls held and the best reached $3.13-$3.22/kg Store lambs sold on a strong market at the TEMUKA sale last Monday and ten pens of Chatham Island lambs set the pace for the rest. Heavier types earned $182-$196, mediums $114-$128 and lighter types $80-$120. Heavier prime ewes made $240-$292 but most were lighter types at $130-$178. Good prime cattle firmed with better traditional steers up to $3.32-$3.33/kg and Hereford-Friesian mostly $3.10$3.21/kg. The majority of prime heifers were 540-629kg Hereford-Friesian which sold at $3.15-$3.23/kg. Temuka store cattle • Pitt Island 2-year Hereford steers, 385-432kg, returned $3.17$3.20/kg • Yearling Devon-Hereford bulls, 298kg, fetched $3.46/kg • Weaner Hereford steers, 139kg, earned $640 and heifers, 147kg, collected $610 Chatham and Pitt Island cattle were well received at Temuka last Thursday as the demand for quality beef cattle is high around the country. Those with horns, unfavourable breeding, or on the lighter end of the scale earned below the $3.00/kg mark including 2-year Hereford steers, 317kg, at $2.97/kg. Local Angus heifers, 344kg, made $2.82/kg. Eleven Devon-Hereford bulls, 329kg, fetched $3.19/kg. Yearling Angus steers traded at $3.27-$3.36/kg. Angus and Hereford heifers mostly firmed to $3.02-$3.07/kg. Murray Grey-Friesian, 318kg, collected $3.15/kg. In the calf sale which followed preferred HerefordFriesian steers earned $515-$580 and heifers $500-$550. Charolais-Friesian bulls, 133kg, returned $540. Read more in your LivestockEye.

CANTERBURY

OTAGO Balclutha sheep • Heavy prime ewes fetched $150-$170, medium $120-$140 and light $70-$100 • Top store lambs made $110-$120 and light $60-$100 There was a good yarding of prime sheep at BALCLUTHA. Heavy prime lambs sold to $140-$160 and medium $120$135.

SOUTHLAND Lorneville • Heavy prime ewes made $170-$230, medium $130-$156 and light $100-$110 • Top store lambs fetched $105-$115, medium $90-$100 and light $75-$85 Heavy prime lambs sold for $163-$178 at LORNEVILLE last Tuesday with medium at $148-$159 and light $130$139. There was a very small yarding of prime cattle. Heifers, 360kg, achieved $2.20/kg and 650kg bulls $3.10/kg. Store cattle sold on a sound market. Yearling beef heifers, 404kg, realised $2.97/kg. Weaner Hereford-cross bulls, 100140kg, earned $420-$555 and heifers $350-$430.

Where livestock market insights begin LivestockEye • • • •

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Markets

48 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 17, 2022 NI STEER

NI LAMB

SI LAMB

($/KG)

6.15

8.80

8.30

BEST 2-YEAR DAIRY-BEEF STEERS AT TARANAKI CATTLE FAIR ($/KG)

3.19

PREPARATION: Livestock agents and farm staff members worked hard to corral nearly 7000 ewes and lambs for the sixth annual Puketoro Station sale on January 10.

$3.02-$3.07 high $298-$302 Yearling traditional 2-tooth ewes at lights Top Stortford Lodge Ewe Fair heifers at Temuka

COMPETITION: The rails at Puketoro Station were crowded with buyers from many regions of the North Island and two-tooths reached a high of $272.

Ewes, lambs and steers sell well Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz

OT weather and dusty sale yards have been featuring in January, along with good clearances and high prices in the North Island. Buyers from a wide catchment, including Hawke’s Bay, Taupō, Wairarapa, Waikato and Northland made their way to inland Tokomaru Bay, East Cape to join local farmers bidding for sheep and cattle on Puketoro Station. The sixth annual on-farm sale kicked off the month for agents and transporters and prices met or exceeded expectations for vendor McNeil Farming. Central Livestock auctioneer Shane Scott said 6800 sheep and 900 cattle were offered and everything was sold. Bidding was brisk for the sheep and continued strongly for the cattle, he said. Romdale, Coopdale and

Perendale two-tooth ewes averaged $254 for more than 2800 sold, with a top price of $272. Values were about $50 ahead of last year, when sheep were lighter because of lack of rainfall. Some 1600 older ewes averaged $214, four-tooth ewes were $253 and six-tooth $240. Nearly 1900 Romdale cryptorchid lambs were sold at an average of $106, with the top line at $122, well ahead of last year’s $82-$96. Liveweight values this year were around $3.75-$3.80/kg. The steers were all 15 months

A few days earlier, on a very hot Wednesday, January 5, sale yards at Te Kuiti held approximately 800 bullocks, most of which were sold at prices over $3/kg liveweight.

old, mainly Angus with some crosses, and the heaviest, average 445kg LW, made $1420 or $3.19/ kg. Lighter pens, 305-370kg, sold around $1100 to $1200, or $3.30$3.40/kg. These values were about 20-30c ahead of last year and comparable to the year before. A few days earlier, on a very hot Wednesday, January 5, sale yards at Te Kuiti held approximately 800 bullocks, most of which were sold at prices over $3/kg liveweight. Angus 30-month steers weighing over 700kg topped the sale at $2250/head and $3.09. Lighter ones of the same age and type, approximately 100kg less, were just under $2000 and $3.17/kg on the scales. Angus/Hereford, South Devon, Hereford and Charolais bullocks in the mid to high 600kg LW range were $3 to $3.10. Top of the prices/kg was $3.19 for Friesian Angus-cross steers at 597kg and $1910/head. Up to $5/kg was paid for Hereford Friesian-cross weaner

ACTION: Central Livestock auctioneer Shane Scott, from Taupō, cleared large numbers of ewes, lambs and steers for Puketoro Station, East Cape.

bulls through the pen at Frankton last Thursday. The top end of the weaner heifers, including some Speckle Park crosses, was in the range $3.60 to $3.90.

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Farmers Weekly NZ January 17 2022

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