Farmers Weekly NZ November 20 2023

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Vol 21 No 45, November 20, 2023

View online at farmersweekly.co.nz

$4.95 Incl GST

Stockpiles clog China lamb sales Neal Wallace

NEWS

T

Lamb

HE $97.9 million loss reported by Alliance Group for the past year graphically illustrates how tough this period has been for the sheepmeat industry, and it does not look like getting any easier.

Lamb export prices are falling faster than earlier forecasts, prompting Silver Fern Farms (SFF) to lower expected prices for lamb through till January by up to $1.10/kg and mutton by up to 80c/kg.

Meanwhile Alliance chief executive Willie Wiese said sheepmeat inventory in storage in China has reached 1 million tonnes, double the normal volume for this time of year.

Exporters said global lamb prices will not recover without a lift in demand from China, which may not occur until the second half of next year.

Alliance’s $97.9m loss before tax for the year to September 30 2023 represents a $214m turnaround from the previous year, when it reported a record $116.3m profit.

The after tax loss was $70.1m, compared to a $73.6m profit a year earlier.

The conditions that underpinned that loss look like remaining for at least this season,

with consumers remaining cautious with their spending, high inventory levels and cheap Australian sheepmeat flooding markets.

SFF this week revised its forecast lamb prices through until January to $5.80-$6.60/kg (plus programme premiums) and mutton from $2.50-$3/kg.

On September 1 it forecast lamb prices through to December at $6.90-$7.30/kg (plus premiums) and mutton $3-$3.80/kg.

The decline in the markets for lamb and mutton in particular was quicker than some of our most experienced sales staff have seen in their careers.

Boys and their toys Arlo Knowles, 1, takes the wheel as cousin Kanu Nicole, 2, and grandfather (obscured) Aaron Hegarty of Christchurch explore the tractor display at the New Zealand Agricultural Show in Christchurch last week. Thousands of people attended the three-day annual event at the Canterbury Agricultural Park as it marked its 160th anniversary.

Photo: NZ Agricultural Show

Winning bid for young auctioneer

Dave Courtney Silver Fern Farms Alliance last month forecast lamb prices through to December at $6.80-$7.50/kg (including premiums) and mutton $3-$3.50/ kg.

AFFCO predicts lamb prices could fall below $6/kg this season.

Exporters say that without China, mutton is even harder to sell.

SFF chief customer officer, Dave Courtney, said global sheepmeat markets have been challenging for longer than expected.

Continued page 5

Five years of dedication, perseverance and doing the hard yards reaped rewards for Henry Miller as he gunned for the New Zealand Young Auctioneers Contest.

PEOPLE 6 Tools for reducing on-farm emissions are likely to be in the hands of farmers by 2030.

Strawberry growers could be facing another difficult year as low prices kick in early.

A Manawatū artist credits his success to the beauty of New Zealand farming scenes.

TECHNOLOGY 5

NEWS 11

PEOPLE 18

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EDITORIAL

SALES CONTACTS

Bryan Gibson | 06 323 1519 Managing Editor bryan.gibson@agrihq.co.nz

Andy Whitson | 027 626 2269 Sales & Marketing Manager andy.whitson@agrihq.co.nz

News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

Craig Page | 03 470 2469 Deputy Editor craig.page@agrihq.co.nz

Andrew Fraser | 027 706 7877 Auckland/Northland Partnership Manager andrew.fraser@agrihq.co.nz

People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Claire Robertson Sub-Editor claire.robertson@agrihq.co.nz

Jody Anderson | 027 474 6094 Waikato/Bay of Plenty Partnership Manager jody.anderson@agrihq.co.nz

Neal Wallace | 03 474 9240 Journalist neal.wallace@agrihq.co.nz

Palak Arora | 027 474 6095 Lower North Island Partnership Manager palak.arora@agrihq.co.nz

Gerald Piddock | 027 486 8346 Journalist gerald.piddock@agrihq.co.nz

Omid Rafyee | 027 474 6091 South Island Partnership Manager omid.rafyee@agrihq.co.nz

Marketplace . . . . . . . 36-37

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Julie Gibson | 06 323 0765 Marketplace Partnership Manager classifieds@agrihq.co.nz

Markets . . . . . . . . . . . 42-47

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Richard Rennie | 027 475 4256 Journalist richard.rennie@agrihq.co.nz

News in brief

Contents

Food prices drop

Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . 14-17 Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Federated Farmers . 21-24 Real Estate . . . . . . . . 25-35 Livestock . . . . . . . . . . 38-41 Weather . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

PUBLISHERS Dean and Cushla Williamson Phone: 027 323 9407 dean.williamson@agrihq.co.nz cushla.williamson@agrihq.co.nz

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ADVERTISING MATERIAL

Farm wellbeing Safer Farms is holding agri think tanks to tackle diminished wellbeing on farms.

Supported by Farmstrong and led by Dr Hillary Bennett, the free events will explore ways to protect farm workers against psychosocial harm through the design of better farm work or systems. The North Island event is in Palmerston North on November 23, 10am-3pm and the South Island in Dunsandel on November 21, 10am-3pm.

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our pioneering

spirit tells us

nothing’s

Westpac NZ’s livestock farming customers will need to meet 2030 emissions intensity targets, with dairy farmers being asked for a 10% reduction and sheep and beef 9%.

The bank says it is part of its strategy to future-proof its customers and its own business from the impacts of climate change.

An entry from the Alliance Group has been named the world’s best ribeye and best grass-fed steak at the World Steak Challenge.

A grain-fed wagyu Black Angus cross sirloin entered by Jack’s Creek, Australia was crowned world’s best overall steak.

The awards, held in Amsterdam, crowned Alliance’s 55-day-aged ribeye the world’s best for that cut, and its grass-fed steak the world’s best in that category, too.

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Nigel Stirling | 021 136 5570 Journalist nigel.g.stirling@gmail.com

Food prices in New Zealand have again fallen but Kiwis are still paying 6.3% more than a year ago, according to Stats NZ. Month-on-month food prices fell 0.9% in October 2023 compared to September.

That follows a 0.4% drop in September.

The annual increase of 6.3% to October 2023 was due to price rises across five food categories. Groceries were up 7.9%, restaurant ready-to-eat food meals 7.7%, non-alcoholic beverages 5.7%, meat, poultry, and fish 3.3% and fruit and vegetables 3.3%.

LIFTED: NZKGI CEO Colin Bond says the recent kiwifruit Green growers forum highlighted how boosting in-orchard productivity offers one route for growers with lower than average yields to lift profitability.

STORY P13

Back in 1860, exporting meat to the other side of the world seemed about as easy as nailing gravy to the ceiling. But a few determined kiwis took the bull by the horns and now our grass-fed beef and lamb is sought-after all around the globe.

At AFFCO, we see the same pioneering spirit alive and well in farmers today. We’re playing our part too – exploring every opportunity to take New Zealand’s finest farm-raised products to the world.

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News

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

Methane-cutting tools ‘on track for 2030’ Bryan Gibson

TECHNOLOGY

T

Emissions

HE head of the organisation tasked with finding tools for reducing on-farm emissions is confident they’ll be in the hands of farmers by 2030.

AgriZero is a joint venture between the government and industry and is backing a number of innovators developing mitigation tools that will work in New Zealand’s pasture-based farm systems.

With Fonterra announcing its plan to reduce emissions intensity by 30% by 2030, AgriZero chief executive Wayne McNee said the race is on.

“We’re looking for companies that are developing tools that New Zealand farmers can use,” McNee told the Farmers Weekly In Focus podcast.

“So pastoral farming tools, we’re investing in those companies both in New Zealand and offshore and then working with them to get those tools to farmers.”

AgriZero was launched in February and has $165 million to invest. Half has come from the government and half from partners Fonterra, Silver Fern Farms, Anzco, Synlait, Rabobank and Ravensdown.

McNee said they’ve put their money behind four projects so far.

“The first of those is a company called Ruminant Biotech, which makes methane-reducing boluses that you can put in the rumen

of the animal. It’s a fairly earlystage company, but a promising technology that could potentially be used across sheep, beef and dairy, which is one of the benefits.

“We invested in a company in the United States called Hoofprint Biome, which is making an enzyme-type product that you would feed to the animal – ideally once a day or less – which shows great promise in reducing methane emissions.

“We’ve picked up the industry funding for a vaccine programme and methane inhibitor programme run out of AgResearch in Palmerston North. And lastly, we have invested in building some methane-measuring facilities which will be based at Massey University and Palmerston North, so you can measure emissions from cows when you do research and see whether these things you’re using actually work or not.”

AgriZero complements the New Zealand Agricultural Greenhouse Gas Research Centre that has been going in Palmerston North for more than 10 years.

“We work alongside them, they do the early-stage research looking at how you could actually change the rumen of an animal to reduce emissions, and they’re also looking at soil carbon and things like that.

“We’re more focused on things that are near to the needs of the farmers – so something that we might get to market in the next three to five years and really giving that a boost to helping you get approved so farmers can use it here in New Zealand.”

Continued from page 1 “The decline in the markets for lamb and mutton in particular was quicker than some of our most experienced sales staff have seen in their careers,” he said.

SFF chief executive Simon Limmer said the anticipated China rebound following the lift of the covid restrictions has yet to occur.

Lower lamb prices have helped boost demand in Europe and the Mediterranean, but the United States and the United Kingdom are under pressure from large volumes of Australian lamb.

Competition from Australian lamb has “decimated” the UK wholesale market but retail continues to perform well in that country, where NZ lamb is favoured due to the product’s size.

AFFCO chief executive Nigel Stevens said prices in China appear to have stabilised in recent weeks but, while there is “reasonably solid demand” at these prices, he was reluctant to say they have hit bottom.

Lamb racks are selling well in the US and demand is solid for legs and middles in the UK and Europe.

He said AFFCO is diversifying away from China to other specifications and other markets, but this will become more challenging as seasonal production volumes increase.

“Looking further forward, as UK and European Christmas and Easter chilled orders, at premium pricing, are filled and as we revert to more standard production, this is likely to place further pressure on processor margins.”

RACE IS ON: AgriZero chief executive Wayne McNee says the race is on to develop tools to reduce on-farm GHG.

It is a significant challenge because most of the technology that’s been developed was designed for high-input dairy or feedlot beef systems. So we need something different to that.

Wayne McNee AgriZero He’s optimistic those tools will be in farmers’ hands soon.

“It is a significant challenge because most of the technology that’s been developed was designed for high-input dairy or

The two key trading points in China are the Golden Week seven-day holiday, just past, and Chinese New Year, which is on February 10.

Wiese told Farmers Weekly that inventory clearance during the recent holiday was lower than hoped and is now double what is normal for this time of the year due to an influx of Australian product.

He said Australian prime stock production was higher and earlier than many predicted as farmers reacted ahead of the expected El Niño threat.

He said two weeks ago Australian exporters were buying ewes for $1/head when NZ processors were paying $2$3/kg, enabling Australian exporters to undercut NZ product.

ANZCO sales and marketing manager Rick Walker said it could be the second half of next year before inventory and demand are back in balance.

He said the likelihood of a hot, dry summer will slow the Australian lamb kill and will help China recover.

“Without China, lamb markets are not going to recover.”

Walker said exporters are aware of the looming Australian lamb kill but have been caught out by how quickly the country is drying out, which has created a large and early lamb kill.

“We expected these were likely to come through summer but in fact they started coming halfway through winter.”

In the interim markets in the first half of next year will be influenced by Australian sheepmeat volumes.

MORE:

“One of the reasons we exist is that customers are demanding reduced emissions. If you look at the Fonterra documents, they outline what their customers are requiring. Nestlé and others have absolute target reductions of 3050% by 2030. And they are wanting their suppliers, including New Zealand, to help them meet those.

“New Zealand starts from a great place – we are very carbon efficient to start with, but those other countries are going to get tools that we might not be able to use and they will catch up on us and maybe even pass us.

“So that’s really important to customers, it’s important to consumer. We have to be continuing to focus in this area. I think there is a real opportunity here and I’m optimistic that we will be able to maintain our position.”

AgriZero is also talking to major global players to see if there are opportunities to collaborate.

“I was in Ireland earlier this year and we are working closely with a university there, but also with a lot of startups in the United States.

“They see an opportunity here, this is a big market, a lot of money potentially to be made over time.

There are lots of little companies looking at doing research in the universities, in Europe and the United States.”

Big funders like the Gates Foundation are also on the radar.

See pages 7, 42

feedlot beef systems. So we need something different to that.

“There is a lot of research going on around the world now into pasture-based solutions designed with places like India and Africa and South America in mind, where there are large numbers of ruminant animals.

“So I am optimistic that there will be a range of tools by 2030 that farmers can use to reduce their emissions on farm, both methane and nitrous oxide.”

McNee said that while the previous government’s regulatory programme, He Waka Eke Noa, was met with opposition from farmers, they should be more welcoming to market-driven change.

MORE:

Listen to Farmers Weekly In Focus wherever you find your podcasts.

Logs get green light for India exports Richard Rennie

NEWS

Forestry LONGER term prospects for the re-opening of the log trade to India are looking more promising after the Ministry for Primary Industries confirmed shipments can continue from New Zealand without having methyl bromide fumigation prior to departure.

The agency earlier granted exporters a window of opportunity from September to late October to send shipments of logs to the sub-continent, subject to them being treated with methyl bromide by Indian authorities on arrival there.

That allowance has now been continued without a fixed end date.

The use of the fumigant in NZ was banned by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) for use in ships’ holds from the start of this year, which dried up the previously solid log trade with India.

Prior to the ban, log trade value had grown to 1.7 million cubic metres a year, valued at about $250 million. That was dwarfed by Chinese exports of 19 million cubic metres but was close to the South Korean

GOOD TO GO: The continuation of conditions allowing ships exporting logs to India from New Zealand to use methyl bromide on arrival re-opens the door to a valuable log trade opportunity. volumes of 2 million cubic metres a year.

Only one shipment of logs has been dispatched under the interim period.

The ability to resume trade in logs was one of several key export focus topics during the recent India-New Zealand Business Council trade delegation to New Delhi.

Mark Proctor, a director of log exporters and forestry company TPT Forests, said the change has come about thanks to Indian regulators now including NZ on a list of countries that do not allow methyl bromide use.

“It simply means they will accept NZ logs and fumigate on arrival,” he said.

He said it was still early days,

with the only shipment sailing from NZ in late October and still on the water, and still to clear the process on arrival.

He said the move will likely be interpreted with caution by NZ log exporters, though there is talk of another vessel due to sail.

Work is being done on alternative fumigants for use in NZ that are as effective as methyl bromide, without the ozone-depleting environmental impact it brings.

These include phosphine, which has been approved for use as a fumigant in Chinese shipments since 2001. Another treatment, EDN, has received EPA approval for use as a fumigant in 2022.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

News

Do I have any advance on five years: young auctioneer’s journey to the top Five years of dedication, perseverance and doing the hard yards have reaped rewards for Henry Miller, who was gunning for more than the bid in the New Zealand Young Auctioneers Contest.

Annette Scott reports.

G

ROWING up on a family farm in Canterbury sowed the seeds for Henry Miller’s interest in the agriculture sector.

In his fifth crack at the contest, Miller, 24, was crowned New Zealand Young Auctioneer 2023, heading off a record field of competitors to take the win.

After leaving school and starting his BCom studies, it didn’t take long before he worked out that wasn’t what he wanted to do.

“I did six weeks at university and worked out it wasn’t for me.”

As an aside to his studies he had taken up the opportunity through his uncle to help pen up at the Coalgate saleyards. “A trainee job came up and my uncle suggested I give it a go. That was the start.”

Miller became one of the Hazlett team, working as a livestock trainee starting out as a booking clerk.

“Once I got the opportunity to start auctioneering, I became quite attracted to it and very soon worked out that I quite like this part of the job.

“Initially I was selling the fat ewes at Coalgate.”

Now five years into the game, a move south to Kurow has broadened horizons and opened further opportunities.

“Once I got to Kurow I had the opportunity to sell at the Temuka sales. It certainly was a different perspective and one that grew my game and confidence to sell big yards of cattle.

“It was a big change from Canterbury, all new country, new people, new community, it all fell into place for me.

“I enjoy being part of the team and developing relationships with farmers and others within the industry.

“Sale day is an opportunity to keep in the know of the market, who is buying and selling and what.”

Winning the coveted Young Auctioneer title is a mission accomplished for Miller.

“I have learnt a lot and gained

a lot of experience from the first couple of years. Selling at Temuka gave me the confidence and experience to really get serious about winning.

“The more time I spent auctioneering the more I realised this is a big competition to win, it may have taken five years but every year was a lot of fun and each time I learnt more and it was more competitive than ever this year with 13 of us in it.”

Sale day is an opportunity to keep in the know of the market, who is buying and selling and what.

Henry Miller New Zealand Young Auctioneer 2023 The learning doesn’t stop there for Miller, who is looking forward to his trip to Sydney as part of his prize haul.

“There’s always things to learn, you never know it all and striving to get better, to be the best I can be for my clients, is always a goal and good for the people I work with.”

As well as the NZ Stock and Station Agent’s Association trophy and the Denis Hazlett Medal, Miller as the champion also gets the opportunity to exhibit his skills at the Royal Sydney Easter Show 2024, before a crowd of about 2500 people.

So come March, Miller will head across the Tasman to auctioneer as an exhibitor at the Sydney Royal.

“That experience has been on my mind for a couple of years so I am looking forward to it.”

Miller has a passion for the outdoors and when he’s not at the rostrum pulling the bids, he’s out and about enjoying a spot of hunting and fishing.

Young Auctioneer competition founder and co-ordinator Mick Withers says the field was the biggest yet in the 12 years of the contest.

The competition aims to showcase and develop up and coming young auctioneers to improve the standard of NZ’s next generation of livestock auctioneers.

“It gives them a reason to work towards getting themselves out there doing it and improving their skills. Everyone likes a bit of competition and that builds confidence and improvement.

“The standard of auctioneering over the 12 years has seen notable improvement,” Withers says.

The 13-strong line-up was a record this year with talented young auctioneers coming from across NZ. Contestants must be under the age of 30. They are required to demonstrate ability, first in an interview to test communication skills and knowledge of the terms and conditions relating to livestock auctioneering, then in a practical live auction.

In the live auction the contestants tested their skills in the selling of three pens of prime cattle.

Sheep were not included in the contest this year given the time constraints and the large number of contestants.

The competition is held in conjunction with the Canterbury A&P and coincides with the prime beef section of the show.

Withers has co-ordinated every one of the 12 competitions, with a personal experience behind his idea to establish the contest.

Back in the 1990s Withers was nominated as an up-and-coming auctioneer to auction against the New South Wales champion.

“He came here to NZ, he made me look like a bush auctioneer, he was so good.

“I decided we needed to work on something in NZ for young auctioneers.

“We needed to improve the standard of our young people in the auctioneering circles.”

It was 15 years later, when Withers joined the cattle committee of the Canterbury A&P

OUTLOOK: A move south to Kurow has broadened Henry Miller’s horizons and opened further opportunities.

Association, that he realised the opportunity.

“This was the time to establish it and give young guys something to train for with exposure as a competition at the show.”

This year’s judging panel consisted of Geoff Wright, Greg Cook and Donald Cooke, who report the standard to be “very good”.

“The top six or seven in particular stood out but overall we were impressed with the standard, consistency and ability of all contestants,” Wright says.

Alex Horn from PGG Wrightson, Canterbury took out second place

with Karl Chitham from Carrfields, North Waikato finishing third.

Major sponsor Heartland Bank was joined this year by the NZ Stock and Station Agents’ Association, which put up cash prizes for the place-getters.

The top three young auctioneers each received a Bushback jacket.

The contest was also supported by the Carlton Bar and Restaurant.

In a programme reciprocal with Sydney, Justin Rhode from Nutrient Ag in Queensland auctioneered as an exhibitor at the contest to showcase Australian auctioneering, as Miller will do for NZ in Sydney.

Rural heart-attack patients face longer waiting times Staff reporter

NEWS

Health

PATIENTS who go to urban hospitals after having a heart attack receive more timely care than those at rural and urban non-interventional hospitals, new University of Otago research shows.

The study, published in the New Zealand Medical Journal, investigated whether there was a difference in the care given to patients who had a heart

attack between January 2014 and December 2019 depending on the rural-urban category of the hospital they were first admitted to. Three hospital categories were considered – large urban interventional, smaller urban noninterventional, and rural hospitals.

They were measured on whether patients received an angiography within three days, the assessment of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and the secondary prevention medication that was prescribed before discharge.

Of the 26,779 patients involved

in the national study, 66.2% presented to urban interventional hospitals, 25.6% to urban noninterventional and 8.2% to rural hospitals.

Māori patients were more likely to go to urban non-interventional and rural hospitals than urban interventional.

Lead author Dr Rory Miller, of the Department of General Practice and Rural Health, said patients at rural or urban non-interventional hospitals experienced delays in receiving an angiography and were less likely

to receive an echocardiography compared with patients who presented to urban interventional hospitals.

“The findings show people in our rural communities and smaller urban centres are potentially worse off than those in larger, urban settings,” Miller said.

“Māori patients are disproportionately impacted by delays in receiving angiography as they are more likely to live near rural or urban non-interventional hospitals.”

Māori and Pacific patients at

urban interventional hospitals were less likely than non-Māori/ non-Pacific to receive timely angiography, but more likely to have LVEF assessed.

However, LVEF assessment and timely angiography in urban non-interventional and rural hospitals were lower than in urban interventional hospitals for both Māori and non-Māori/ non-Pacific.

The rates of prescribing secondary prevention medication at discharge were high and similar for all types of hospitals.

News

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

Pāmu to quit bovine milk powder line Neal Wallace

NEWS

P

Dairy

ĀMU Foods is to cease the processing and selling of its branded bovine milk powder following direction from its outgoing shareholding minister.

State-Owned Enterprises Minister Duncan Webb has written to the Pāmu board requiring that it focus on its core business and commercial disciplines and that it details steps to improve the performance of its off-farm ventures.

Pāmu has confirmed Pāmu Foods will from next June stop selling Pāmu-labelled milk powder but will continue with its deer milk and sheep milking ventures.

“The decision reflects our refreshed strategy and focus on core business and farming excellence,” a Pāmu spokesperson said.

“Looking forward we couldn’t

ensure a competitive edge and sustainable margin from selling the Pāmu-linked bovine milk products.”

Off-farm ventures make up less than 10% of Pāmu’s portfolio.

Looking forward we couldn’t ensure a competitive edge and sustainable margin from selling the Pāmu-linked bovine milk products.

“Between now and then [next June], Pāmu Foods will continue business as usual, completing contracts and managing the transition out of these products with our customers in China.

“Meanwhile, our Spring Sheep Dairy joint venture continues to grow in scale alongside its aligned asset of Melody Dairies, which processes sheep milk.”

The Pāmu spokesperson said revenue diversification is a key strategy for Pāmu.

Webb’s letter, sent last month and released by the Treasury, says that a focus on its core business was needed to ensure Pāmu meets its 2025 milestones and 2030 ambitions.

For the year to June 20, it reported a $9 million loss after tax compared to $59m profit a year earlier, largely due to writedowns in the value of livestock and forestry assets The decline in performance was also attributed to Cyclone Gabrielle, which hit 24 Pāmu farms, along with falling returns.

Webb was clear in his expectations.

“We ask that you consider shareholders’ expectations and best farming practices, including prioritising on-farm performance and operating as a commercially disciplined exemplary pastoral farmer.

CUTTING BACK: Pāmu Foods will stop selling Pāmu-labelled milk powder but continue with its deer milk and sheep milking ventures.

“We expect that your strategy will include realistic and measurable objectives that demonstrate focus on how (Pāmu) intends to deliver on shareholding minsters’ expectations.”

Any venture must meet budget and financially it must contribute positively within one to two years.

He expects Pāmu to be a commercially sustainable pastoral farming business and as profitable

and efficient as comparable businesses not owned by the Crown.

The company is also expected to invest in strategically aligned initiatives that enhance its core business and achieve its objectives, while also addressing underperforming investments.

It is also required to be environmentally sustainable and “an exemplar” in employment and animal welfare practices.

Alliance losses prompt tough questions Neal Wallace

NEWS

Food and fibre ALLIANCE Group has undertaken a review of its business after reporting a $97.9 million loss before tax for the 2022-23 year.

The result to September 30 represents a $214m turnaround from the previous year, when it reported a record $116.3m profit, but reflects a collapse in lamb and beef prices in October and November last year and subsequent weak global markets.

Annual turnover dropped from $2.2 billion in 2021-22 to $2bn in 2022-23.

During the co-operative’s

roadshows this year shareholders were forewarned of the result – which chief executive Willie Weise said was exacerbated by the dates of its financial year.

Late last year lamb prices fell 25%, followed by beef a few weeks later, in the first quarter of Alliance’s financial year.

Added to that was a build-up in China of inventory in anticipation of high demand once that country came out of lockdown, and the employment of 500 seasonal workers, who were retained despite low lamb flows early in the season.

Weise said the anticipated Chinese demand never eventuated and when prices fell, revaluation

of the inventory cost the company between $55m and $60m.

Markets have been flat ever since with conditions made worse by high exports of Australian sheepmeat to China, which are nearly 40% higher year on year.

The co-operative’s annual report shows that during its financial year, lamb prices fell 29%, beef 19% and mutton 53%. Venison was unchanged and veal rose 29%.

Weise, who was appointed chief executive in March, said in an interview that following a review of the company’s long-term strategy, it has been enhanced and a pathway back to profit developed that focuses on efficiency and enhancing or developing new

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products. Two new product areas identified are pet food and food supplements.

The company has also looked at key and strategic in-market partnerships, new trading opportunities and the scaling up of premium programmes that allow higher payments to farmers through using new technology that measures marbling.

It has also addressed the ability of management to proactively respond to a changing environment.

Weise said the company has no core debt and has the support of bankers and, after speaking to farmers, is confident they have their support.

Chair Murray Taggart described the result as disappointing following the previous year’s record performance, but said while it is still early days, initial trading this financial year is tracking to expectations.

China, Alliance’s largest export market by value and volume, has yet to bounce back, Taggart said.

“Globally, high interest rates and inflation eroded consumers’ discretionary spending.

“Fewer people dined in restaurants, and more people swapped higher priced red meat proteins such as lamb for less expensive white meats in their weekly grocery shop.”

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

Dampney laments Fonterra meeting process Hugh Stringleman

NEWS

F

Fonterra

OUR remits to the Fonterra annual meeting from Northland farmer Richard Dampney received between 15% and 18% support from farmers who voted, despite what he calls a big squash by the board.

“My experience showed the whole process of farmer remits needs examination as large numbers of disenchanted farmers did not vote or attend meetings of the co-operative,” Dampney said.

At the annual meeting in Methven, Dampney said, he was thrown off kilter by the decision

to treat his four remits as one, effectively denying him speaking rights as the mover of each.

“All previous remits were proposed and seconded in the usual manner but mine were lumped together.

“I raised a point of order with the chair and was shut down.”

He said the whole system of farmer remits to the annual meeting is a waste of time because most shareholders who bother to vote have done so before the meeting.

He asked for a show of hands of farmers in the hall and saw fewer than 20.

“I was told there were 53 farmers online, so effectively I was speaking to less than 1% of the total shareholding.”

The fact that his remits gained between 15% and 18% support showed merit was seen in his proposals, according to some.

Most support was received for the proposal that two independent director positions be disestablished, instead of one of each.

But only about 30% of shareholders voted – a poor turnout that Fonterra needed to address.

Resolution 8, the company’s preferred plan to reduce by one farmer-director and one independent within the next 12 months, received 88.5% support.

Chair Peter McBride said the Companies Act and Fonterra’s constitution prescribe the way shareholder resolutions are

handled before and during the meeting.

Two of the four Dampney remits were effective amendments to Part A of the constitution, which requires deliberation by the Cooperative Council and that was therefore done and advised before the meeting.

“There is no formal requirement for shareholders submitting proposals to address the meeting in person, but as per usual practice he was invited and spoke for nine minutes.”

On three occasions Dampney was requested to stick to the remits, rather than make general observations about the co-op.

“I determined that he had been given fair and reasonable time to address his resolutions and then

Lambs head out the farm gates MARKETS

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CALL FOR LAST BIDS: Andy Jennings, left, and Brian Diamond from the PGG Wrightson Wairarapa team sell lambs at the Te Whanga Station, Wairarapa, onfarm sale.

Suz Bremner

sold to Waikato and local, while the balance headed to the South Island. Results were better than Livestock expected.

First time on-farm sale AS MORE lambs hit weaning participant Taurapa Station, weights, on-farm sales continue Hawke’s Bay, offered its entire to add supply to the market, with draft of nearly 5200 Terminalbuyers headed out to farms from Romney lambs. The sale was very Ocean Beach in Hawke’s Bay to successful, and plans are in place Pigeon Bay on Banks Peninsula. to continue the on-farm sales next These on-farm sales not only year. provide a good opportunity to buy Hazlett agent Angus Hazlett said large quantities of one ear-mark timely rain helped local demand. lines, but are also a chance for “While we had outside buyers farmers to head out their own lined up, it was the local buyers front gate and catch up in a social who took the majority. They environment. enjoyed coming out to the sale and The latest round of sales buying on the property.” started in Herbertville at Tautane Offered in seven lines varying Station, where on-farm sales from 290 head up to 1065 head, were reinstated after a 20-year the top pen reached $131 while hiatus. Approximately 7400 second cuts returned $74.50-$110 mainly South Dorset Down and and third, $55-$66.

Hampshire Down-Romney lambs Ewes with a one-year mouth were offered, as well as a smaller made $83.

Romney cryptorchid section.

A hot, dry, dusty day at the Te The entire terminal lamb crop Whanga Station on-farm sale in was offered and averaged $83 Wairarapa was a sign of what’s to at an estimated $3.00-$3.10/kg Farmers NZ_Sep2023.ai 1 6/09/2023come 2:27:57and PM PGG Wrightson regional liveweight.

TopWeekly lambs headed to livestock manager Steve Wilkinson the processors and nearly 200

put the resolutions to a vote,” McBride said.

Dampney lamented the loss of the farmer networking system through which proposals could be floated to the Shareholders Council. “Whether my ideas are right or not, they only want to push their ideas.”

During general business Dampney asked chief executive Miles Hurrell why, if $1 billion of cost savings by 2030 had been identified, they couldn’t be implemented immediately.

“He said the plants had to be evaluated and the savings made. I think he was sounding the death knell for Maungatoroto, one of our two Northland plants.”

said everyone was pleased to tick the sale off.

“Everyone was happy to see the unit loads of lambs heading out the gates. We knew the sale results were not going to be anything outstanding and vendors were well-schooled on expectations, so the sale went as expected. The better lambs achieved higher cents per kilogram levels and there was a preference for the blackface terminal-cross lambs over the Romney cryptorchid.”

Most of the 5400 lambs sold to Manawatū with a top pen making $120, second cuts $90-$110 and most of the balance, $70-$76. Top

lambs were estimated to make $2.90-$3.00/kg and other lines, $2.70-$2.75/kg.

New season lambs are slowly appearing at saleyards in the South Island, but one of the first substantial opportunities to secure a decent number of quality lambs is at the annual Annandale onfarm sale at Pigeon Bay, Banks Peninsula, now in its 18th year.

PGG Wrightson agent Stu Uren said buyers were treated to a top line-up.

“Offered up was the complete early lamb flock and it was a good test for the market. Weaning weights were up, which reflected

the good growing season to date and a positive sign of summer weanings to follow, post Canterbury Show week.”

The 1900 Suftex-Romney lambs were weaned on sale day and drafted into cryptorchid and ewe lines.

“All the lambs sold to regular buyers. A unit load went to Southland and the rest stayed in Canterbury with most selling for around $3/kg. We were satisfied with the results, given the current schedule predictions,” Uren said.

The prime lambs sold for $118-$120 and store types made $76-$98.

News

9 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

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Clutch of awards for AgriHQ contributors Staff reporter

PEOPLE

Awards

T

HE work of Farmers Weekly and Dairy Farmer journalists Gerald Piddock, Tony Benny and Nigel Stirling was acknowledged with awards at the annual function of the New Zealand Guild of Agricultural Journalists and Communicators in Wellington.

Piddock won the Alliance Group Red Meat Industry award for two articles on the implications of changes to the bobby calf rules, and Stirling the Zespri Export award for stories on trade, including trading with India.

Benny won the DairyNZ Dairy Industry award for profiles on Westland Dairy Products chief executive Richard Wyeth and Canterbury dairy farmer Phil Garrett, which appeared in Farmers Weekly’s AgriHQ stablemate, Dairy Farmer.

The event’s premier Ministry for Primary Industry Rongo award went to freelance journalist Kate Evans writing for New Zealand Geographic and United States magazine Roads and Kingdoms.

Her articles looked at Precision Seafood Harvester, a large-scale governmentfunded project that is changing trawl fishing, and another exploring the claims of BioLumic. The NZ agricultural science company uses short doses of UV light to significantly boost the health and yield of seeds and plants.

WINNERS: From left, Tony Benny, Gerald Piddock and Nigel Stirling with their awards.

President of the NZ Guild of Agricultural Journalists and Communicators Hayley Gavin praised the standard of the entries.

“The standard of entries and the breadth of topics covered this year show the significance of agricultural journalism and photography in New Zealand, and how important it is that we support and celebrate the people who bring these issues and stories to public attention.”

The

perfect blend

Methane research recognised Richard Rennie

TECHNOLOGY

Awards

LOW-methane sheep research has earned AgResearch scientists the Pickering medal, New Zealand’s premier award for excellence in scientific technology.

The team’s technology included the means to effectively measure the gas output of sheep, followed up by identifying the unique genetic and microbiological markers for low-methane production in individual animals.

Awarded annually by the Royal Society Te Aparangi, the Pickering medal aims to recognise individual or group scientists who have developed innovative technology that is significant both nationally and internationally.

The work by the AgResearch team has been recognised twice in less than a month, after it was also awarded the Ballance Science and Research Award at the Beef + Lamb NZ Awards in October.

The award recognises the decade spent by the AgResearch team working on selecting sheep that emit less methane, while still continuing to produce quality wool and red meat.

They found after three generations of breeding it was possible to select for sheep that emit 13% less methane than the highest emitters, per kilogram of feed ingested.

The team is headed up by Dr Suzanne Rowe, working with Dr John McEwan, Dr Peter Janssen and Dr Graeme Atwood.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

News

FSF unitholders mollified by boost in Fonterra results Hugh Stringleman

MARKETS

Fonterra

SUPPLY: Fonterra’s 1.6 billion supply shares (FCG) are at $2.18 and the 107 million units (FSF) are trading at $3.14.

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ORE alignment between the interests of Fonterra farmer-shareholders and unit investors in the Fonterra

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Shareholders Fund was a theme of the fund’s annual meeting.

Originally yoked in 2012 within the Trading Among Farmers (TAF) scheme, the shares and units are now divorced and going their own way on the share market.

Prices have diverged by just under one dollar, the biggest gap in a decade.

Fonterra’s 1.6 billion supply shares (FCG) are at $2.18 and the 107 million units (FSF) are trading at $3.14.

Unitholders who spoke at the meeting congratulated Fonterra senior management on the 2023 performance and results, which included 50c capital return and 50c fullyear dividend.

Total unitholder return since the 2022 annual meeting had been 36.5%, MaryJane Daly, chair of the board of the FSF, said.

But one investor challenged Fonterra to buy back the fund, currently valued by the market at $337 million, now that the TAF purpose no longer exists.

Fonterra chair Peter McBride responded with the comment about more alignment between the interests of farmers and investors.

“We have no intention of buying the fund back. In fact, that hasn’t been discussed recently,” he said.

Daly agreed with the alignment comment, saying that senior management now has incentives linked to total shareholder return, being the movements in share price and dividend.

During the past year the FSF price has moved between a high of $3.88 and a low of $2.94.

Despite Fonterra’s active share buy-back scheme to improve the FCG price, the fund is still 6.7% of Fonterra’s total capital, she said.

Re-elected by the meeting as an independent board member, she said FY2023 was a very good year but the performance of FSF since inception has not been satisfactory.

Fonterra’s new flexible shareholding capital structure allows farmers to own shares equivalent to between one-third of their annual milk supply and four times.

McBride renamed 65% of the capital “discretionary shares” alongside the 7% contained within the FSF. The remaining 28% he termed “compliance shares”.

The discretionary shares, tradeable only among farmers, overhang the market, especially while dairy farmers want to reduce discretionary spending.

They have little money to make off-farm investments, even in their own co-operative notwithstanding its much-improved performance.

Another FSF unitholder argued that Fonterra’s current earnings guidance for FY2024 at 45c-60c is too conservative.

“Your payments for milk have fallen, along with world freight rates, and you have asked us to look at 45c compared with 80c last year,” he said.

Fonterra chief executive Miles Hurrell said the guidance is not conservative, as that is against share market rules.

“We are forecasting the cheese and protein stream returns to come closer to the milk price.

“At the same time, we expect higher returns from consumer and foodservice, as higher margins persist.”

News

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New season strawberries slow, price low Richard Rennie

NEWS

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Horticulture

FTER high hopes for a decent profit this season, strawberry growers could be looking at another tough year as low prices hit home earlier than usual.

Waikato grower and Strawberry New Zealand board member Darien McFadden said the season kicked off well in late September with no late frosts and plenty of warm weather encouraging some early ripening.

But prices have since taken an earlier than usual dive at wholesale level.

“We have witnessed some very aggressive pricing taking place in the market. That is making things a bit of a race to the bottom at present, and it is nowhere near the usual time in the season when prices are at their lowest.”

McFadden is the country’s second largest strawberry grower, with 20ha in plants near Hamilton.

He said growers had been hoping for a relatively profitable year after two seasons of covid impact making labour options limited, followed by last year’s wet, difficult season.

He is seeing fruit sold wholesale for $10 a kg, at or below the cost of

production for most growers.

“And that would usually happen in early December, so to be there already means it is stacking up to be a shocker.”

He said the market is somewhat at odds with itself. The fruit he sells in his own shop is fetching a healthy $30/kg this year.

“But 99% of the volume is through supermarkets and wholesalers, and the price there is most concerning.”

But 99% of the volume is through supermarkets and wholesalers, and the price there is most concerning.

Darien McFadden Waikato strawberry grower He said it was hard to understand why prices had dropped so drastically so early.

“Maybe people are simply not buying as much as they usually would, given the cost of living and strawberries really are not a cheap fruit.”

Sandy Laqua, a strawberry grower from Whakamārama, Bay of Plenty, said she has had a slow start to the season, with cooler conditions delaying ripening of fruit, putting her operation almost

three weeks behind where she would expect to be.

She has also noticed the slide in prices, with her usual $25/kg sales having to be marked down to $20/kg this year, despite the lower volumes. However, the plants are healthy and given some warmer weather she is confident she will have a plentiful supply for Christmas dessert menus.

Strawberry Growers NZ manager Sally King said there had been 30% less plant stock available to growers this year due to the impact of last year’s wet weather on plant supply.

Some estimates are that up to a million fewer plants are available.

“So, while it looks like we may have a good yielding year, you’d be very lucky to buffer against that loss of plant stock.”

Around 9200 tonnes of strawberries are grown in NZ every year, with about 90% sold locally.

McFadden defended the supermarket duopoly that buys the bulk of his quality strawberries and does not believe the reason for poor prices lies at their feet.

“They always pay above the next horse in the race, while also expecting you to deliver on quality.”

Longtime Whakatāne strawberry grower Graham Sims said his year had started well with good-sized fruit, but he experienced some

COOL: Whakamārama strawberry grower Sandy Laqua says cooler than usual days and nights meant her season’s crop was later to market than she would have liked. flooding in early October that knocked plants back. Some had been struck with leather rot, which slowed but did not stop their fruit production.

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He said he is managing to get $18 a kg for strawberries this year, noting pushback on Facebook from consumers towards growers charging $20-plus/kg this year.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

North Canterbury set for healthcare boost Annette Scott

NEWS

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Health

PROPOSED $20 million infrastructure investment is set to boost access to healthcare services for North Canterbury’s rural communities.

The proposed development is set to attract medical professionals into Amberley, situated in the heart of the Hurunui District about 45 minutes north of Christchurch and tagged as one of the South Island’s fastest growing towns.

The facility could also see the addition of other wellness services, including a fitness centre.

Industry experts said the rapid population growth in the area has not been matched by the development of healthcare infrastructure, leaving thousands of residents to drive long distances for medical, dental, physiotherapy and other health services.

According to Stats NZ data, the population of Amberley has increased 58% over 12 years.

The Hurunui District Council forecasts also suggest the

POOR: Alan Henderson says access to healthcare providers is typically poor throughout New Zealand’s rural townships. population will more than double from 2300 to 5000 residents before the availability of residential land begins to constrain growth.

The addition of eight new subdivisions and a new $200m retirement village have seen record numbers of consents issued in the town.

A recent University of Otago study found rates of mortality

higher for rural populations such as North Canterbury, with researchers finding access to primary and secondary health care challenging for those outside of urban areas.

The study also found mortality for Māori was 32% higher than non-Māori in rural areas.

The new three-level, 3000m2 health and wellness facility is planned for a vacant site adjacent to the 2.7ha Brackenfields Shopping Centre.

A director of Erskine Owen, the company behind a property syndicate formed to purchase Brackenfields, Alan Henderson, said with the growing population of Amberley there is an increasing need for health services in the area.

“We know that Amberley has a high number of retirees and that this number will grow as the new retirement village comes online and more people move into the area.”

The medical centre could attract a variety of healthcare professionals such as a GP, dentist and physio with the company currently consulting with the

SCOPE: The proposed $20m state-of-the-art medical and wellness facility will have scope to support the needs of the wider North Canterbury region. community and undertaking other research to determine the ideal mix of service providers.

“Access to healthcare providers is typically poor throughout New Zealand’s rural townships and for those needing regular visits or specialist care, the long drive can be a significant barrier to treatment,” Henderson said.

Initial discussions with residents indicate there is significant demand for additional health services in the area.

“The healthcare model we are developing now is designed to support the needs of the

community for decades into the future and we want to consult with stakeholders in the wider area to ensure it can effectively meet local needs.”

The facility may also include other types of retail or professional services, depending on the outcome of the consultation with the community.

“While still in the planning phase, there is scope to shape this into a state-of-the-art medical and wellness facility that will support the needs of those in the wider region, as well as those travelling north on SH1.”

Ashgrove Coopworths on the move south Hugh Stringleman

MARKETS

Sheep and beef

TRANSACTION: New Coopworth stud owner Alan Blake with Ashgrove vendors James Parsons, left, and Travis Pimm, and some Romdale rams.

Your Local Authorised Cooper Tires Dealer!

ASHGROVE Coopworth rams sold well to a top price of $2800 in the last ram sale in Northland before moving to Taumarunui and future annual sales planned for Frankton.

After 40 years of development by founder David Hartles, Maungaturoto, the Coopworths were sold to James and Janine Parsons, Tangowahine, 10 years ago.

Now they will be on the move again in January to Alan and Kerri Blake at Triple Farms Sheep Genetics in King Country, who already have a Coopdale stud.

The Blakes have a multi-farm 730ha effective sheep and beef breeding business and the newly acquired Ashgrove Coopworth and Suftex sheep will be run on 300ha steep hill country at Ōngarue.

The vendor of the sheep is Hard Hill Country Genetics, a partnership of the extended Parsons family and their farm manager Travis Pimm, originally from California.

“Northland’s declining sheep numbers and southern ram clients’ waning desire to run the gauntlet through Auckland have been factors in our decision to sell,” James Parsons said.

“The Blake family will build off a solid genetic base to develop

further and better serve your needs.

“They have a similar philosophy to that of Ashgrove, where all animals have to perform under strict commercial conditions.

“Here at Tangowahine, we will concentrate on the Matauri Angus cattle and essentially simplify things, with fewer livestock classes, but we will have more ewes, not less.”

In the Coopworths there were 26 rams sold for an average of $2050 and in the Suftex 13 were sold for an average of $1550 with a top of $2300 twice.

Ashgrove is a founding flock of the FEGold accreditation for facial eczema resistance.

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News

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

Put the gas on Green to boost profits Richard Rennie

NEWS

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Horticulture

OME Green kiwifruit growers need to step up orchard management to lift their productivity amid growing pressures on the crop’s profitability.

A recent forum on Green returns, and how to improve them, included a panel of long-time Green growers highlighting the management skills more growers need to develop if they wish to get more out of their orchards.

The forum was initiated by NZ Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated (NZKGI) after a Green grower survey revealed a growing level of disquiet among orchardists about their crop’s place in Zespri’s export portfolio as SunGold continues to surge in export volumes and earnings.

The total Green crop is about 50 million trays against SunGold’s 100 million-plus, as the full impact of several years of increases in licensed SunGold area starts to hit home in harvested volumes.

Meantime the majority of Green growers face the prospect of either breaking even or running at a loss this season. This comes after two years blighted by poor crop quality due in part to covid labour issues

LIFTED: NZKGI CEO Colin Bond says the recent Green growers forum highlighted how boosting in-orchard productivity offers one route for growers with lower than average yields to lift their profitability. in 2020-22, then climate impacts last year including floods, frosts, and cyclones.

Colin Bond, NZKGI CEO, said the forum had started at an orchard gate level to inform growers about what they could do themselves to leverage more profit from their orchard.

A panel of successful highyielding Green growers underscored some management aspects growers need to drill down into become more successful.

“There were very clear messages

there about ‘knowing your orchard’, the importance of timing, replacing diseased plants, and the importance of timing for pollination in orchards, and the variety of male plants grown in orchards,” Bond said.

He said with an increasing percentage of orchards under management, rather than owner operator control, there has been more reliance on third party operators and a drop off in intergenerationally shared skills.

“So it becomes even more critical

to ensure you have very good communication with the manager or operator of your orchard.”

Green yields took a hit this season, down to 7000 trays a hectare on average, compared to the usual average of about 10,000.

But Bond said for growers capable of producing 12,000-plus trays a hectare, the returns are still there, and there is a strong incentive to lift that low average up.

“You are looking at almost $100,000 a hectare before costs and in a horticultural sense, this is still good.”

He said growers would have to look at the likes of Rockit apples for the next closest return outside of SunGold kiwifruit for that type of gross figure.

“It is just that it has been two hard years.”

He said if all growers in the lower-yielding quartiles could be lifted up over 12,000 trays a hectare, profitability would be significantly more favourable.

Green growers have also been feeling more pinched in recent years by the creep of more SunGold fruit into their harvest window.

Post-harvest companies assured growers at the forum their Green variety continues to play a valuable role as a crop that ensures they can better utilise

their capital-intensive sorting and packing plants.

They were also assured by Zespri marketing executives the fruit’s place in its global portfolio is valued, with retailers in Europe in particular missing the usual supplies of the fruit in market this season.

“There are the health benefits of the Green fruit that consumers recognise.

“The challenge is really about competition from other Green fruit sources, particularly Chile, which puts downward pressure on prices,” Bond said.

NZKGI’s research and Zespri’s own work have shown that it is still, however, possible for New Zealand-sourced Green fruit to maintain a valuable price premium amid that competition.

Future iterations of the Green fruit will have a focus on a combination of its taste profile and its ability to maintain its readyto-eat firmness for longer for consumers.

“The forum has proved helpful for those newer growers to get a better understanding on what they could do to improve their orchard’s performance. For older experienced growers it can always be harder to find new things to do, but part of our role is to respond to growers’ concerns.”

Chance to have your say on beef genetics advances Staff reporter

NEWS

Sheep and beef NEW Zealand’s beef sector is being canvassed for its views on beef genetics and available genetic tools in the industry.

The Informing New Zealand Beef (INZB) programme is asking farmers, beef breeders and rural professionals, including agricultural consultants and facilitators, stock agents and vets, to take part in the annual industry survey.

The survey tracks awareness, knowledge and use of genetic tools in the NZ beef industry over time.

“Responses to the survey play a key role in shaping the future of

the INZB programme by directly informing the activities and development of resources, and [in measuring] changes in views and the uptake of genetic tools in the industry over time,” Gemma Jenkins, INZB programme lead, said.

“In the previous two industry surveys, we’ve gained significant insights into the perspectives of the industry and how extension activities and resources are best delivered to different demographics.

“We’ve seen a rising awareness of genetic tools within the industry, highlighting the importance of initiatives like the acrossbreed Beef Progeny Test and the

development of New Zealandspecific genetic evaluation and breeding indexes.”

The survey takes less than 10 minutes to complete. Answers will remain anonymous and completed surveys will go into a draw to win a $100 Prezzy Card.

INZB is a seven-year Sustainable Food & Fibre Futures partnership supported by Beef + Lamb NZ, the NZ Meat Board and the Ministry for Primary Industries.

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14 Editorial

14

Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

Letters of the week Plan seems premature JS Bainbridge Kaitaia

From the Editor

Ag was a hard row to hoe Neal Wallace

Senior reporter

B

EING an agricultural minister in a Labour government is comparable to being a minister of labour in a National government – neither has a welcoming constituency.

As Damien O’Connor prepares to vacate his fourth-floor Beehive office following the Labour Party’s comprehensive defeat in the October general election, questions will be asked about the legacy of the outgoing agriculture and trade minister.

Is the agricultural sector better off now than in 2017, when he assumed the portfolio? How convincing an advocate was he for the sector?

An extended period of low or negative farmer confidence indicates that few rate his performance highly.

Farm inflation, pricing agricultural greenhouse emissions, freshwater environment plans and Significant Natural Areas are some of his unresolved issues.

History will judge his advocacy kindly

with the United Kingdom and European Union free trade agreements and the handling of Mycoplasma bovis and covid, though the human and financial cost of seeking to eradicate M bovis raise obvious questions.

Less effective was his ability to soften the sharp edges of government policy.

At the 2017 election prime minister Jacinda Ardern called climate change her generation’s nuclear-free moment and Environment Minister David Parker’s intentions to address freshwater quality were accompanied by accusations that regional councils had failed in managing water quality.

Farming leaders say O’Connor was supportive of the sector around the cabinet table, but his influence was always going to be limited by senior ministers who had their own transformational agendas.

O’Connor enjoyed debating issues and was not shy about expressing his opinion, but once the cabinet signed off on a policy, collective responsibility restricted what he could say.

One failing was not fronting up more often to farming audiences to discuss contentious issues. This contributed to the view outside Wellington that policy makers were too isolated from the reality of their decisions.

Sure, he addressed freshwater meetings during the Labour Government’s first term, but not so He Waka Eke Noa discussions, where he could have supported farming sector leaders.

O’Connor was passionate about animal welfare and about his desire for exporters to add value rather than increasing volume, which he drove through projects like the Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund.

He believed live animal exports and some isolated practices of intensive winter grazing represented too high a cost to animal welfare and too great a risk to New Zealand’s reputation.

Parker led freshwater policy development, which alienated farmers with measures such as illogical limits on pugging and resowing dates for winter-grazed cropping paddocks.

This added into the narrative that government policy makers were disconnected from reality and that O’Connor wasn’t fighting for farmers.

Farmer agitation worsened during the Labour Government’s last term, with the potential cost of the HWEN proposals, rising inflation and interest rates and, although not its fault, falling product prices.

There was also the perception, for which the government would ultimately pay the price, that while businesses were being frugal, cavalier government spending was adding to inflation and interest rates.

Not even the success of securing free trade agreements with the UK and EU could stem anger towards O’Connor and his government.

There is little doubt O’Connor advocated for NZ farmers, but ultimately he was overruled by ministers who had their own agendas.

IN RESPONSE to “Farmers see red over Northland stock exclusion plans” (November 13), I am writing to express my deep concern about the Northland Regional Council’s approach to implementing the Labour government’s updated Te Manu o Te Wai legislation.

While I acknowledge the importance of environmental conservation, it appears that the NRC is overlooking critical requirements outlined in the Local Government Act 2000, particularly in promoting social and economic wellbeing.

The recent stock exclusion plan, coupled with Fonterra’s ambitious goal to reduce onfarm emissions by 30%, raises alarms for our rural communities.

Despite New Zealand’s minimal contribution (0.09%) to global carbon emissions, the economic implications of these measures could jeopardise the livelihoods of local farmers and the communities they support, pushing them to the brink financially and mentally.

The cost, running into several million dollars annually, only adds to the burden in an already economically challenged region.

Addressing the issue of E coli requires a more comprehensive strategy that goes beyond mere legislation.

Research into the sources of contamination, such as tracing it back to its origin, should be prioritised.

The impact of introduced fish, waterfowl and possums on our waterways needs careful examination.

Additionally, uncontrolled populations of game and pest birds, along with the potential environmental impact of introduced species, should be thoroughly assessed and eradicated.

The emphasis on riparian margin plantings, while well intentioned, poses its own set of challenges.

The potential increase in E coli levels due to habitat for introduced bird species and the difficulty in weed control without

Continued next page

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Opinion

15 InMyView

15

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

In my view ...

The changing face of N Island hill country Andrew Watters

Watters is chief executive of MyFarm Investments

L

AND use change is an emotive topic. Change brings disruption as neighbours leave, workforce requirements alter, and local communities adjust.

The change in front of us is the conversion of Class 6 and 7 hill country to forestry, particularly in the lower North Island, parts of the King Country, east coast and Northland. It’s likely that within 10 to 20 years there will be perhaps 400,000700,000 hectares of additional land in native and exotic forests with the corresponding drop in pastureland.

The change in front of us is the conversion of Class 6 and 7 hill country to forestry, particularly in the lower North Island.

There have been two largescale land use changes in my lifetime. The first was the conversion of marginal land to sheep farming, supported by Muldoon government subsidies.

Sheep numbers increased from 55 million ewes in 1975 to 70 million by 1982 in a failed strategy to boost exports. Ewe numbers are now back to a much more productive 25 million.

The second was the growth of dairy from 1990 to 2014, with cow numbers lifting from 2.4 million to 5 million. Dairy on the right land class efficiently converts grass to product and responds to management intensification.

This bought investment and more people into local communities,

Letters of the week Continued from previous page the use of sprays should not be overlooked. Moreover, the effectiveness of these plantings is contingent on proper management.

It is disheartening to witness the disconnect between the NRC’s actions and the scientific evidence, including recent events like Cyclone Gabrielle in Hawke’s Bay. The proposed stock exclusion plan seems premature, especially given the ACT Party’s intention to remove Te Manu o Te Wai, considering it more political than practical.

It is disappointing to know that many of the NRC’s councillors

but also bought nutrient loss.

Land use change occurs when there is a better use for the land than the old use. On less versatile sheep and beef properties, costs of labour and inputs have risen, interest rates have doubled and, with a supply and demand imbalance, product prices are down.

Farmers considering succession or securing their capital should be “gathering information”.

Why trees? Climate change and the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) are at the forefront of new tree plantings. Trees sequester carbon and generate NZUs that can be sold for profit. A tree crop with some cashflow through to maturity makes a material difference to the level and quality of investment returns.

There is much to debate. Is it right to plant trees to offset emissions? What of the exports forgone? Might regulations change? Won’t technology solve our climate change problems?

What about slash?

Irrespective of views, enough of our customers, including Chinese brands, believe in climate change.

And we are at the start of the journey to reduce New Zealand’s petrochemical-based emissions.

To meet commitments, NZ needs carbon removals via forests and a substantially bigger forestry estate to support a fibre rather than a petrochemical based economy.

Rather than operating in information silos, my mentor in business always had the saying “gather more information”. A key piece of information is “what could my farm be best used for?”.

Knowledge about what land uses are economically viable would seem important.

The answer to “what are my options?” will depend on come from a rural background and that they once had the cojones to lead the Can the Plan charge against the Far North District Council and are now perhaps endorsing this proposal – are we looking at a “poacher turned gamekeeper” scenario?

Furthermore, the allocation of 20% of water to specific cultural entities raises concerns about fairness among ratepayers.

While cultural considerations are crucial, it is essential to strike a balance that ensures the wellbeing of all community members.

In conclusion, I urge the NRC to re-evaluate its approach to the Te Manu o Te Wai legislation, taking into account the economic challenges faced by the north and adopting a more holistic strategy to address water quality issues.

MOVING ON: Land use change occurs when there is a better use for the land than the old use. location, access, land stability, microclimate and scale. Property close to port or mill, with good access and stable soils could well be suited to full afforestation.

Perhaps the money from a C class property could go toward buying a B+ property.

For other farms, the back part of the property may be worth planting. A sheep and beef farm we operate retired the worst 10% of the farm. Revenue was reduced 5%, but profits only 2.5%. They now have a rapidly growing forest registered in the ETS producing annual cashflow, and a harvest income in 25 or so years.

Other farmers may prefer an agro-forestry route using 15m x 15m poplar plantings registered in the ETS. At MyFarm we started planting mānuka forests in the lower North Island in 2019 and we have been pleased with the results. Both carbon income and our mānuka honey partnership with Comvita continue to outperform expectations. Mānuka better suits farms on papa or

slipping soils, and where the port and mill are distant, and may revert to a biodiverse native canopy in the long run.

MyFarm is addressing the drivers for this change, along with the strategies and tactics for landowners and investors to profit from this transformation, at a free seminar taking place in Palmerston North on November 28.

The principal focus of the event is to consider the mosaic of profitable land uses in addition to sheep and beef production.

Pāmu’s chief investment officer, Andrew Sliper, will talk about the state-owned farms’ approach to maximising the value and productivity of their landscapes.

Afforestation Partner’s Andrew Buswell will note the factors that determine forest profitability.

Tracy Brown, chief operating officer for Comvita, will discuss their growing successes in the high-value mānuka honey market and the potential of mānuka honey forests. Scott Pollard from

NZ Carbon Farming will talk about its leasehold partnerships, allowing farmers and investors to benefit from carbon market developments with less risk.

MyFarm is opening the doors for interested farmers and service providers to gather information.

With any large sector changes, it’s best to understand what’s happening early and how it applies to you or your clients.

You then have the greatest opportunity to make informed decisions.

Tackle GHG at source

thing you can do in the world.”

And why isn’t air transport part of the Emissions Trading Scheme?

How can we maximise the benefit of existing reserves?

When oil reserves are depleted, transport is not the only thing that will be affected. A vast range of byproducts will no longer be there. And the substitutes will be nowhere near as good. The world’s oil-based economies will grind to a halt.

The byproducts include petrochemicals, for example nitrogen fertiliser, pharmaceuticals, paint, plastics, bitumen, synthetic rubber, textiles and carpets.

Climate change is now at a critical stage after decades of procrastination and doubt of its very existence.

Oil should be used primarily

for agriculture, as food is a basic necessity for life, and for some forms of transport.

Climate change should be tackled at source rather than via an Emissions Trading Scheme, which inevitably will lead to schemes of avoidance and will not stop the use of fuel in nonessential discretionary areas.

We should be encouraged to use manual methods for discretionary activities, rather than energy-intensive ones – developing new types of grasses for lawns that don’t need mowing, for instance.

According to an environmental report from the IPCC, Potential Contribution to Net Emissions Reduction 2030, the majority of methane reduction comes from oil and gas, then landfill, then a small amount from agriculture.

D Hanson Marton IN LESS than a generation we have used up to 50% of the world’s oil reserves. A Saudi Arabian saying has it: “My father rode a camel, I drive a car, my son rides in a jet airplane – and his son will ride a camel.”

The motor car is probably the most environmentally destructive mechanism ever invented. And oceans of jet fuel have been blown up, just for the fun of it. For tourism.

As former Green party politician Sue Kedgley said, “Flying is the most environmentally destructive

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

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

16 Opinion

16

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

Opinion

An advisory role that flows both ways Alternative view

Alan Emerson

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

W

HEN the Ministry for Primary Industries announced it was reinstating a farm advisory service under the guise of On Farm Support, there were howls of protest. The issue appeared to be that there were adequate private sector advisers and the state shouldn’t be involved.

Generally speaking I prefer less state to more, but on the farm adviser saga I support MPI. In addition I’d suggest the criticism is incorrect on fact. We don’t have enough farm advisers now.

I can remember in the old days the majority of farm advisory services came from the then Ministry of Agriculture or Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.

The Douglas-inspired Labour government of the mid 1980s effectively nuked the government advisory service under the spurious argument that the state

had no role in farm advisory services.

While that’s fine from a theoretical point of view, as much of the Douglas projects were, it totally ignores the practicality of the information flow between the farmer and central government.

Farmers are suffering for that on several fronts.

They are suffering because an army of civil servants in Wellington have absolutely no idea of the practicalities of life on the farm. Pre advisers, neither did MPI. An example of the MPI issue was the Mycoplasma bovis incursion.

Officials were energetically travelling around farms making, at times, ridiculous demands. It is to the credit of both MPI and Federated Farmers that a team approach was adopted and an additional credit to MPI that it figured it needed practical people on the ground to stop the problem happening again.

To me that is a major step. The M bovis incursion was massive and it is thanks to many, from Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor down, that it is under control – but it took time as it was being run from Wellington.

Now incursions and catastrophes, be they biosecurity or climate events, can be handled on the ground by qualified people who know the area. That is a far better way of doing business.

The wider civil service’s ignorance of practical life on the farm is also considerable.

We can all think of ridiculously stupid or impractical advice or legislation that has come out of the Ministry for the Environment, the Environmental Protection Authority, Immigration NZ, Worksafe and the Ministry

CALIBRE: Dr John Roche, director of the MPI’s On Farm Support, says his team’s aim is to ‘support farmers and growers to be the best in the world. We have the calibre of people to do just that.’ of Business, Innovation and Employment.

While MPI advisers can’t reset the wholesale stupidity of all of the government departments, they can help temper it. MPI in Wellington will know the reaction of farmers throughout the country and in real time. It can also get information to farmers quickly and without fuss.

Dr John Roche is the director of the new on-farm support team as well as being MPI’s chief science adviser. He is committed to developing a collegiate approach involving different sectors of our primary industries.

He points out that in the old days government farm advisers and scientists worked together, often from the same office.

With the nuking of advisers plus the compartmentalising of science with the Crown Research

Institutes, that collaboration hasn’t occurred.

Roche has visited all of our research establishments in an effort to restore that dialogue. He’s confident he can. In addition he points out that MPI has access to international developments that can be readily communicated to farmers.

While MPI advisers can’t reset the wholesale stupidity of all of the government departments, they can help temper it.

We’re not talking massive resources. There are 10 regional managers, 33 regional advisers and two specialist advisers.

The budget for four years is just $55 million.

The team already has runs on the board from the Hawke’s Bay cyclones, Tararua floods and the Northland severe climate event.

Roche is passionate about the quality of his team and the direction they’re taking.

“We don’t have enough farm advisers in NZ now and half are aged over 50. In addition, 25-30% of farmers aren’t connected to any advisers or support staff now. They need to be.

“Our aim is to support farmers and growers to be the best in the world. For the primary sector to be more profitable and sustainable into the future. We have the calibre of people to do just that.”

Another pleasing feature of the On Farm Support initiative is the new scholarship programme to encourage young people into agriculture.

It’s taken nearly 30 years but I’m pleased we now have a provincially based, governmentfunded farm advisory service that can get pertinent information to farmers quickly and from farmers to the government at the same speed.

Those who don’t agree with me should ask themselves a simple question: Would they prefer an MPI-employed Lincoln-trained farm adviser who understands agriculture and farmers, can shear a sheep and fix a fence, both advising the government and bringing timely information to farmers?

Or would they prefer the previous position of governmentemployed eco-warriors with obscure degrees from the likes of Victoria University who have never left town and wouldn’t know a sheep from a goat?

I know where I stand.

We have to farm with soil erosion in mind Meaty matters

Allan Barber

Meat industry commentator: allan@barberstrategic.co.nz, http:// allanbarber.wordpress.com

T

HE multiple heavy rain events this year have underlined the threat to the landscapes beloved

by New Zealanders and tourists alike and the soils that underpin agricultural production, essential to our economy.

Landcare Research reports an

annual loss of 192,000 tonnes of soil as a result of earthquakes, intense rain events, agricultural intensification, loss of vegetation, urban spread, and industrial pollution and waste disposal.

The outcome of these factors is loss of production, nutrients and soil biodiversity.

Last week I attended a workshop on land restoration in the Mahurangi region as part of a programme organised by Auckland Council in collaboration with local iwi, Ngāti Manuhiri.

The programme began in 2020 with $5 million of funding from the council for project applications from local landowners on a 60/40 shared basis with the goal of increasing the health of the Mahurangi Harbour and its waterways through reduced sedimentation run-off from both private and public land activities.

Since its inception, 92,000 native trees have been planted on private land and 55,000 on public land, 6.8km of fencing erected, and

29ha of wetland created. Auckland Council provides programme management, technical advice and support, planting assistance and help with completing applications.

Duncan Kervell, a land management consultant based in Whangārei with substantial experience of the soil types in Northland and North Auckland, gave a presentation on how best to control sedimentation run-off by adopting a resilient toolkit of targeted treatments.

The components of the toolkit include tree planting, wetlands, fencing-off of gullies and streams, livestock exclusion, native regeneration and good farm practice. He said all the ingredients for success – good science, funding, GIS mapping, engaged support and partnerships – are present in the Mahurangi district, although time is of the essence, especially with the loss of topsoil from heavy rain events like the Anniversary Weekend and Cyclone Gabrielle floods.

TOOLKIT: A workshop on land restoration in the Mahurangi region hears about controlling sedimentation run-off with methods such as tree planting, wetlands, fencing-off of gullies and streams and more.

He told the audience the soft rock in this part of the country was originally seabed, and that is responsible for the soil structure instability, causing erosion of hill country, stream and riverbanks, and soil under pasture. This geological weakness means sediment run-off occurs with only 4mm of rain compared with 50mm in Canterbury.

It is therefore essential to slow the erosion process with

tree planting in the right places, whether permanent native afforestation, production pine forestry, or space planting of kānuka, mānuka and totara to maintain adequate pasture.

The introduction of kikuyu over 100 years ago has slowed the rate of sedimentation, while the amount of planting more recently has also helped. But heavy cattle Continued next page

Opinion

17 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

17

Science is great – just look at explosives Eating the elephant

Ben Anderson

Ben Anderson lives in central Hawke’s Bay and farms deer, cows and trees. eating.the.elephant.nz@gmail.com In this series, the lads ask if farming is more science or art.

T

HIS month I bought a new chainsaw. I felt the lack of loyalty seeping through my bones as I set my old Husky aside for a brand-new Stihl. I was lured by the 66.8cc of log-shredding power, the shiny orange paint and the magic of the decompression switch. I occasionally catch a glimpse of my old companion sulking in the corner of the shed as I fetch the dog tucker each night. The shame of betrayal burns but I can’t go back.

Continued from previous page

on vulnerable land cause worse erosion and, while it is important to balance ecology with economic imperatives, there is a limited time left to fix the problem.

Encouraged by the evident commitment to tackle the erosion problem, I was curious to find out how much these solutions have in common with the fashionable trend towards regenerative farming. I spoke to a friend’s son who used to run a successful organic dairy farm in Waikato to find out if it was possible to maintain production without eventual collapse of the soils by following regenerative methods, especially on the vulnerable soils of much of the North Island.

Obviously a sample of one is

However, as enamoured as I am with my new wood-chopping companion, it pales in comparison to my first true love, the blasting gun.

I probably need to step back here to explain myself better. You see, my family has a long and enduring relationship with things that go bang. My great-grandfather, who unfortunately I never had the pleasure of meeting, reportedly never went very far without a splitting axe and a sack full of blasting powder.

His enthusiasm knew no bounds, resulting in large quantities of firewood, and at one point, a large gum tree straight across the roof of his woolshed.

My great-grandfather was also generous with his supplies, believing in the irrefutable right of his grandchildren to small calibre rifles and as much blasting powder as they could eat. This resulted in plenty of wild game for the table, as well as the unfortunate sinking of a dinghy in the lagoon while blasting for trout.

This generational love of explosives has survived world wars, depressions, great leaps of technology and successive Labour governments. For my family has always remembered that, whilst it is all very well to be quick and efficient, sometimes it is the process that really matters.

Now, for those of you who have been unlucky enough not to know

what a blasting gun is, let me explain. Otherwise known as a “black powder log splitter”, the gun is a cylindrical device about 2 feet long, with a flat head at one end, and a narrowing point at the other. It is filled with blasting or gun powder, then driven into the end of the log you want to split.

When it is sufficiently far enough in, a fuse is inserted into a hole in the gun, one that would be long enough for the firer to light and walk promptly back a safe distance.

Lastly, and in a perfect world, another log would be positioned at the exposed end of the blasting gun to stop it from transforming into a low flying missile, never to be seen again.

My personal introduction to the blasting gun came when I was still in single figures. My father was the man in charge of operations, and therefore things were done a bit differently. The first departure from best practice was with the length of the fuse. Money was tight and fuse was not to be wasted.

Therefore it was cut short. As the fuse was also old, its burn rate was fairly variable. Therefore we were more runners than walkers.

The second departure from good practice was not putting another log against the end of the gun. Shifting logs was hard work so a wet sack was used instead.

This worked somewhat, but also meant that your hiding spot had

not a completely reliable research base, but he made some very interesting and apparently logical assertions.

In retrospect he would not go down the organic path again because it is so prescriptive, whereas regen is more focused on outcomes without specific prescription. Regenerative farming is by definition lower input than conventional farming, but it does not preclude using animal health remedies and fertiliser as necessary to maintain soil health, which is a major concern for agricultural production.

Because of the lower level of inputs, regen is more in balance and resilient than high-input conventional farming, which can be very stressful for both land and farmer, especially when weather

extremes or sudden market price falls occur.

A key aspect of regenerative farming methods is the health of the landscape, which is a function of water, nutrient and carbon cycles and biodiversity. If these things are in balance and the soils are friable instead of compacted, more water is stored in the soil with a positive effect on its biodiversity.

Unlike biodiverse farming

I was curious to find out how much these solutions have in common with the fashionable trend towards regenerative farming.

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BIG BANG THEORY: Perhaps there is an art to farming, but it’s the science that makes it fun, Ben Anderson says.

to be at right angles to the future trajectory of the blasting gun.

And so I watched the magic of the blasting gun unfold. The log was selected and the gun was prepared. I remember asking my father how he knew how much powder to put in. He was noncommittal, just something about “one more handful for good measure”. Then the gun was driven into the log, the fuse inserted and the sack placed over the end. I watched with fascination as the match flared and the fuse was

lit. Its hiss came with a surge of adrenaline and we began to run.

I had never before in my short life known running to be both so exciting and so full of purpose. We slid into our hiding area baseballstyle and waited. The wait wasn’t long, because with a loud thump the gun went off. In hindsight the log must have been partially rotten because the top blew off it and bits of wood rained down through the cloud of smoke all around us.

I remember stepping out from behind our hiding place with my eyes glowing and the smell of blasting powder in my nostrills. I can still smell it now.

This article was supposed to be about whether farming is an art or science, but I’ve strayed a bit.

Perhaps there is an art to farming, but it’s the science that makes it fun. And don’t we all need to do things occasionally that blow out the cobwebs?

systems, conventional, high-input farming and more particularly exotic forestry planting impose a large externalised cost on the environment through damage to the landscape, on the consumer because of the reduced nutritional value of food production and the presence of pesticides, and ultimately on the taxpayer.

Land clearance and pine planting of unsuitable hill country by successive generations, while facilitating economic productivity, have also resulted in substantial damage to the landscape at huge environmental and community cost.

My contact admits regenerative farming has some disadvantages and he isn’t keen on the evangelical attitude of some of its proponents, emphasising the

importance of taking it slowly, rather than going in “cold turkey”.

The regenerative industry is still immature, without an academic base, and there is a shortage of consultants available to help farmers wishing to transition to a lower-input method of farming.

Consequently there is no prescribed way of doing it, unlike conventional farming, which has a solid scientific and academic basis.

Regenerative farming will not be the way every farmer wants to go, but it may be worth considering, if there are concerns in particular regions about soil loss and land erosion or where the high input farming model is generating diminishing returns.

Production may not necessarily reduce too much and the stress levels may come down.

I had never before in my short life known running to be both so exciting and so full of purpose. We slid into our hiding area baseball-style and waited.

18

People

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

New artistic career born in a barn Manawatū retiree Graham Christensen credits his artistic success to the beauty of New Zealand farming scenes and ‘an exceedingly good tutor’. Charlie Williamson reports.

O

N A Manawatū lifestyle block tucked under the Ruahine Range sits an old hay barn converted into a spacious, light-filled art studio.

Inside that hay barn you’ll find depictions of just about every scene ingrained in the minds of those some way or another involved with rural New Zealand.

The artist behind these depictions, Graham Christensen, picked up the paintbrush late in life, and fell in love with the craft right away.

“So some 12 years ago my wife and I were talking about retirement, we were thinking about what we are going to do when we retire,” Christensen said.

“My wife suggested that I ought to take up painting and I had no idea why because initially I had absolutely no interest. Prior to 12 years ago I really couldn’t care, but she then bought me some vouchers to go to lessons.

“I gave it a shot, and the tutor must’ve been an exceedingly good tutor and gave me lots of encouragement, and after I finished these lessons I was absolutely obsessed with art.”

After a while Christensen found himself at an important crossroads, having to decide on the focus of his work.

“At some point, probably about six years ago, I started to worry about what I would like to focus on, and another artist said to me, ‘What have you enjoyed most in your life, what do you like doing?’

“Then I said, ‘Well I like farming’.

And so he said ‘Paint farming pictures’.”

“Then it all came to me at that point and I started painting woolsheds and sheep yards and stockmen and the guys leaning on the Cheltenham or Halcombe pub and those sorts of things, which I absolutely enjoyed.”

He traces this passion for rural environments to his upbringing on a sheep and beef farm north of Feilding, alongside his own career

on the periphery of the sector.

“I guess that goes back over time to when I was at school working on farms, then I worked in shearing gangs for several holidays, on hay trucks and all those sorts of things,” Christensen said.

When I paint a shearer, I can smell the wool from the shed, I can feel the vibrations of the handpiece and I can hear the different sounds of the woolshed.

Graham Christensen Manawatū “I liked going back to all those sorts of areas, the likes of the woolsheds, the likes of shearers and shearing gangs and I feel so much when I paint those sorts of pictures.

“For example when I paint a shearer, I can smell the wool from the shed, I can feel the vibrations of the handpiece and I can hear the different sounds of the woolshed.”

After attending Lincoln University, Christensen worked in sheep and cattle breeding research throughout the 1960s and ’70s, leading a research team in Canterbury, as well as spending a year on Mana Island as manager of a sheep breeding research centre.

He also farmed deer on a block of land in Manawatū, while working in degree management and career advisory for agricultural and horticultural students at Massey University.

He says he has always enjoyed the characters and scenes in rural communities, explaining that it’s like he’s painting a memory with each piece, whether that is of his own or the person who is viewing it through their own lens.

“I enjoy the rural community, and farmers generally. You know, you talk to farmers and they are a different group of people from the

MEMORIES: Much of Christensen’s work is what he calls ‘memories’ – not just his but those of whoever is viewing the painting.

BRUSHWORK: Manawatū artist Graham Christensen took up painting late in life, and his work is inspired by his love for the characters and scenes that make up rural New Zealand. rest, and the whole environment and the people I just enjoy.”

Christensen said an example of this was when an elderly, retired farmer came through his gallery recently and purchased a painting as it brought back memories of her late husband.

“She and her husband had been farming in Hawke’s Bay, and they had sold their farm and retired and he had passed away.

“And the shearer I had painted was an old guy, he was bald with a little bit of hair around the side, bending over shearing, and she said ‘That looks just like my husband’.

“So often people see something I’ve painted as a memory.

“What has turned out to be unusual when I’ve done a painting is that somebody will come up and say, “Ooh well I would quite like to buy that’, and that surprises me.

“I do it because I enjoy it, but the spinoff is that occasionally people like to buy them.”

WOOLSHED: Christensen traces this passion for rural environments to his upbringing on a sheep and beef farm north of Feilding.

In support of the local farming community, Christensen donates a painting every so often and promotes it. When the painting sells the proceeds goes to the Manawatū Rural Support Trust.

MORE:

Christensen’s latest exhibition, at the Coach House Museum in Feilding, is running throughout December, January and February.

LANDSCAPES: NZ’s rural landscapes inspired Christensen to change the trajectory of his art journey.

Technology

19

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

Getting to the root of pine challenges

“In areas like Australia, where drought is more common, areas like south and western Australia with light sandy soils, these places can provide glimpses of what it could be like in NZ, how it could look in 50-60 years’ time.”

In Monterey, California, where pines are endemic, the trees are facing multiple threats from disease, drought and fires that have seedlings struggling to advance in growth due to persistently dry conditions.

What makes pines thrive in some areas but not others? Scion researchers are part of a multi-country project to answer that question by looking at, and beyond, the trees. Richard Rennie reports.

W

HETHER it is on islands off the coast of Mexico, in the California back country or in New Zealand’s central North Island, the ability of pine trees to survive and thrive is being put under researchers’ microscopes.

Scion scientists, along with researchers from universities in the United States, Australia and Lincoln University, are taking a hard look at what it is beyond the trees themselves that enables them to thrive in some areas while appearing to struggle in others.

Their work involves diving into the trees’ below-ground soil and root microbiome – that collection of fungi, bacteria and microorganisms that live in and on the tree and its surrounding soil environment.

For Scion researcher Dr Steve Wakelin and PhD student Sarah Addison, this has included visiting Pinus radiata sites in New Zealand, the US, Australia and Mexico, taking samples of the trees’ soil environment as part of the five-year Tree Root Microbiome project.

“It is really very similar to humans, for trees. We are not just a collection of cells, but have our own microbiome that lives in and on us, a part of us that influences our health, our fitness and our function,” Wakelin says.

The project has spanned the northern and southern

hemispheres and currently has samples from 750 pine trees including 450 from NZ. Wakelin says it is often thanks to the goodwill of farmers and landowners that the researchers have been able to get samples from a wide array of pine stands, including individual trees, which has been invaluable in gaining a good variety of microbiome samples.

“And it can be those odd trees or unusual stands that offer the real insights.”

He likens their project to the human microbiome project launched back in 2007, where stage two aimed to better understand the role of microbes in human health and disease. Over its nine years from 2007 to 2016 the project delivered a better understanding of multiple bacteria and their interaction with human health.

Wakelin says the evolutionary window humans have enjoyed of about 3.5 million years pales against the 60-70 million years plants have evolved over, a period that has included some significant seismic upheavals and geological events.

Addison says accompanying the trees and their adaptations over that vast period of time are the microbes that inhabit their environment, but little has been understood or known about them.

Their ability to adapt to shifts in the environment quicker than

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It can be those odd trees or unusual stands that offer the real insights.

Dr Steve Wakelin Scion

TESTING: Scion researchers Dr Steve Wakelin and Sarah Addison take soil samples from a pine forest in California. the trees themselves can pushes out the trees natural range, and with that their ability to change and withstand changes in their environment bought on by factors like climate change.

With the advent of DNA

technology, including high throughput sequencing, it is possible to better understand the unique aspects of the microbiome that accompany the trees, specific to the different locales they have adapted to over that time.

Researchers took soil samples in March from pine locales along the US’s western seaboard, extracting DNA to get a profile of the microbes inhabiting the pines’ below-ground habitat.

One possible factor also contributing to the pines’ struggle in their native home could be accumulated pathogen loadings over time, something researchers are hoping to better understand as they pick through the microbiome’s composition.

Wakelin says the project, while focused on pine trees, provides a valuable template for better understanding how other trees, both natives and exotics, can adapt and respond to their environment.

“Pines grow fast and can be manipulated, and we have their genomic map so we know them inside out.”

The Tree Root Microbiome Research Programme is jointly funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s Endeavour Fund and the Forest Growers Levy Trust. It is a partnership between Scion, Western Sydney University, Wright State University, Victoria University of Wellington, Woodwell Climate Research Centre, the Australian Plant Phenomics Facility and Lincoln University.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

World

‘British horticulture faces a bleak future’

T

HE future of the United Kingdom’s £5 billion ($10.4bn) horticulture sector looks bleak without urgent steps to safeguard its future.

That was the finding of a new Lords report, Sowing the Seeds: a blooming English horticultural sector, from the cross-party House of Lords Horticultural Sector Committee.

If young people do not see horticulture as a profession, we are not going to get the skilled labour force that we need.

Lord Redesdale Horticultural Sector Committee The report finds the sector is often under-prioritised and unappreciated by policymakers, as well as there being a lack of longterm thinking.

Among other recommendations, the report urges the government

to make good on its promise to publish a Horticulture Strategy for England, give more support to growers to help them transition to environmentally friendly practices and urgently conduct and publish its review of fairness in the supply chain.

A dedicated Minister for Horticulture was also advised, although the report said Farming Minister Mark Spencer was sceptical.

Lord Redesdale, chair of the Horticultural Sector Committee, said there are two aspects to tackling the labour issues facing the sector.

The first is education, with calls for horticulture to become part of the national curriculum, although Lord Redesdale said this is unlikely to happen.

He said: “If young people do not see horticulture as a profession, we are not going to get the skilled labour force that we need.”

On seasonal labour, he said the government is using the issue as a “political football”.

He also highlighted the lack

of a joined-up approach as demonstrated between the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs and the Home Office on labour.

With the government and retailers focused on reducing inflation and providing cheap food, Lord Redesdale said some of the margins horticultural growers were making are “unsustainable”.

“If we put farmers out of business we will not have the supplies. We will be taking from places which are already short of water.”

National Farmer’s Union horticulture and potatoes board chair Martin Emmett said there is a “real opportunity to boost the whole horticulture sector”, and while the challenges are significantly impacting confidence, British growers have an ambition for growth but cannot achieve it without government support.

A Defra spokesperson said the sector is “crucial” to the resilience of the UK’s food system and an important part of the economy.

“We are hard at work supporting

VITAL: A Defra spokesperson said the horticulture sector is ‘crucial’ to the resilience of the UK’s food system and an important part of the economy. the sector with the challenges they face. It is why we have provided 45,000 seasonal workers to help pick crops next year and announced a range of measures

to support this essential industry, including our forthcoming consultation on fairness in the horticulture supply chain.”

– Farmers Guardian

Shortage of vets threatens food safety in the UK A LACK of official veterinarians could pose a major challenge to United Kingdom food safety, according to a new report.

The decline in vet numbers has topped the list of concerns as outlined in the Food Standards Agency’s (FSA) latest annual review, with the body calling on the British government to address the problem as a matter of urgency.

In the study, the FSA has issued a series of asks focused on securing a safer and more transparent food supply chain.

These included a call for an increase in official veterinarian

(OV) numbers, a greater focus on animal welfare and imports and a more transparent system, which would enable information to be more easily shared to help tackle food crime that costs the UK up to £2 billion ($4.18bn) a year.

The UK has seen a 27% decline in vet recruitment between 2019 and 2022, which the FSA said creates “significant challenges” with risks to animal health and welfare, potential disruption to food supplies and impact on the ability to export.

Professor Susan Jebb, chair of the FSA, said boosting recruitment is

vital if the food industry, which is worth £240bn to the UK economy, is to function correctly.

“Food safety and standards hinge on good procedures and skilled people to ensure the right checks are carried out.

“It takes time to recruit and develop these skills and we worry that without specific action to boost the workforce, specifically to recruit more official veterinarians and local authority inspectors, it will not be possible to maintain these high standards in the future,” Jebb said.

Chief executive of the British Meat Processors Association Nick

Allen said the report reveals that the continued shortage “threatens to seize up the UK’s meat export trade”.

It takes time to recruit and develop these skills and we worry that without specific action to boost the workforce it will not be possible to maintain these high standards.

Professor Susan Jebb Food Standards Agency

He questioned whether it is time to review the roles of vets in the supply chain, asking whether the UK should consider a system, such as ones in place in several European countries, where meat inspectors receive special training.

“It is akin to the division of labour between dental surgeons and dental nurses. If this kind of role were to be created, it would substantially reduce the pressure on the small number of OVs and reduce the reliance on immigration to fill the gaps in the workforce.”

– Farmers Guardian

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FARMERS Vol 1 No 11, November 20, 2023

fedfarm.org.nz

Parker’s unworkable rules must go Colin Hurst Federated Farmers vice president

I

f the incoming Government are looking for ways to restore farmer confidence quickly, then repealing David Parker’s unworkable freshwater reforms must be at the very top of the priority list.

That’s the clear message Federated Farmers have been sending to the National, ACT, and New Zealand First parties as they undertake their coalition negotiations.

While there has been no shortage of impractical regulation for farmers over the last six years, it is without doubt the freshwater rules that have put the most pressure on our rural communities. New rules for winter grazing, fertiliser use, and requiring a freshwater farm plan have added nothing but complexity and cost for farmers – and for very little environmental gain.

Promises that freshwater farm plans would replace the need for expensive consents have been broken. Other rules have been constantly rewritten because they simply didn’t work the way Wellington bureaucrats thought they would behind the farm gate.

The tragedy of it all is that taking such a rigid and heavyhanded approach has completely undermined a lot of good work already underway at the community level by catchment groups.

As part of these freshwater reforms, there are also requirements for all regional councils to develop

new regional plans to achieve new water quality standards and give effect to ‘Te Mana o te Wai’.

These new regional plans are where the rubber will hit the road for farmers and growers. Regional councils have only just started to release their draft plans over the last few weeks, but they already paint a grim picture for rural New Zealand.

Otago Regional Council were first out of the blocks in early October with a draft plan that would see dairy farmers in most catchments having to farm to a cap of 2.5 cows per hectare and 100 kilograms of nitrogen per hectare.

That’s a 15% reduction from the current stocking rates in Otago.

The fertiliser cap is a significant reduction from the current national average application of 140 kilograms per hectare per year on dairy farms. Sheep and beef farmers will also be impacted, with requirements to fence off all waterways on low slope land with a 10-metre setback.

At the other end of the country, a draft plan has also been released for Northland. In order to meet Parker’s new requirements for sediment and E. coli, a consent will be needed to farm on land over 25 degrees.

That’s a staggering total of 250,000 hectares, or 40% of Northland’s agricultural land.

Obtaining a resource consent will be an expensive process for Northland sheep and beef farmers, and once they’ve gone through the process, there’s a high chance consent may not even be granted.

THE WORST: Without doubt, it’s freshwater rules that have put the most pressure on our rural communities over the last six years, Federated Farmers vice president Colin Hurst says.

These three nightmare examples are just a drop in the bucket. Otago, Northland, and Horizons just happened to be the first out the gate, but make no mistake, 13 other regional plans are on their way for the rest of the country that will be just as bad, if not worse, for farmers. .

Colin Hurst Federated Farmers vice president This is a dire situation for thousands of farming families.

Horizons Regional Council, which

covers Manawatū and Whanganui, are also starting to go through the process of establishing what reductions and management practice change may be needed to comply with new national limits.

The consultation documents will be a chilling read for anyone who farms in the region. They’ll have to make huge reductions in nitrogen, phosphorus, sediment, and E. coli to meet new limits.

Horizons has modelled the impact of far-reaching farm management changes, which include fencing off critical areas, retiring marginal land, reducing fertiliser use, planting catch crops, and planting riparian zones.

Even after farmers have completed all these mitigations, there will still be areas where modelled actions

are insufficient and farmers will have to reduce contaminants further, between 50% and 100%.

Alarmingly, this captures more than half the region, including Manawatū, Turakina, and Whangaehu.

These three nightmare examples are just a drop in the bucket. Otago, Northland, and Horizons just happened to be the first out the gate, but make no mistake, 13 other regional plans are on their way for the rest of the country that will be just as bad, if not worse, for farmers.

The problem may be stark, but the solution is clear: Parker’s unworkable freshwater rules must go. That’s exactly what Federated Farmers are asking the incoming Government to prioritise.

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Federated Farmers

November 20, 2023 – fedfarm.org.nz

Animals to stay on school farm

A

Canterbury high school has heard the voice of its community, including Federated Farmers, and decided to keep animals on its school farm.

“Are animals staying on the farm?

Absolutely they are,” Rangiora High School Board of Trustees chair Simon Green said.

That decision comes after Rangiora High School was reported by RNZ (Radio New Zealand) in October to be considering moving away from animal agriculture as they explored ways to make their farm more relevant in the 21st century.

“The world is shifting to be more sustainable and shifting away from meat, so we need to prepare our students for a changing world,” principal Bruce Kearney was quoted at the time.

Federated Farmers North Canterbury provincial president Karl Dean wrote to the school calling strongly for a rethink and requesting a meeting.

“The board responded within minutes to say they wanted to meet,” Dean says.

“I met with Simon and David (Newsham-West, Head of Faculty for Science) and it went really well.

I expressed our deep concerns that the school might think traditional farming isn’t relevant or that the farm isn’t of value to its students.

“They told me they’re keeping animals on the farm, and that they’re very keen to get help from Federated Farmers and others in the community so they can run it in the best way possible.”

As a result of that meeting, the school board has invited Federated Farmers to offer advice and expertise to the school on a formal basis.

“We’re going to form a subcommittee and we’ve invited Federated Farmers to be part of that, alongside a whole bunch of externals, like MPI, so we can get together and maximise the use of that land,” Green said.

“For us to partner with Federated

PARTNERS: Federated Farmers North Canterbury provincial president Karl Dean (left) says Rangiora High School’s farm has huge potential after meeting with the school’s sustainability coordinator David Newsham-West in early November.

Farmers and have something cutting-edge that people from across the country can come and look at, we’re pretty excited by that.”

Green said the school received a strong response from both inside and outside the school to the RNZ story, and says the school’s comments in that story have been taken out of context.

“We said we were reviewing everything, but the line about us reviewing the future of animals has been picked up.

“The good thing about that article is it’s brought out all the people we want to connect with. We’re saying, ‘thanks for coming forward – can you get around the table with us and share your expertise?’”

Whether the school was misrepresented in earlier articles, or whether a strong response from the community and Federated Farmers prompted a rethink, the outcome is a good one, Dean said.

“We’re really pleased with where

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things have landed, and now it’s about helping the school run that farm in a way that gives as many students as possible an experience of the primary sector.

We’re going to form a subcommittee and we’ve invited Federated Farmers to be part of that, alongside a whole bunch of externals, like MPI, so we can get together and maximise the use of that land.

Simon Green Rangiora High School Board of Trustees chair “It’s currently being underutilised.

There’s huge potential to bring more students and staff onto the farm, whereas at the moment it’s really limited. I see a lot of potential for something special.”

Dean said the 31ha farm currently has about 80 ewes with lambs at foot, about 20 mixed-age Lowline Angus, a horticulture section, and an equine section with an arena.

“But you can see the horticulture section is very underutilised, and if all the students are being exposed to is the cattle and sheep, they’re missing out on a lot of things happening in the primary sector.

“There’s a lot more to farming than just cows and sheep. For example, is there the ability to do some grains?

Do more in terms of the science side of the plants?”

Dean says he’s queried whether it’s the best choice to have lambing and calving on the farm.

“That requires intense management. I asked if the students visit the farm more when it’s calving and lambing time, and they said, ‘not really’. So, you could buy in 100kg calves and finish them, and still get all the learnings without the risk or complexity.

“Those are the kind of recommendations we can make as part of the subcommittee.”

Green said only about 300 of the school’s 1600 students are currently using the farm in any one year.

“Kids are getting bored, like, ‘we’re herding the sheep into the pen again?’ We want to do some really rich stuff, looking at wool types, maybe processing the meat.

“We’ve been running an old drystock farm with a very limited number of students involved.

We want to tap into something broader.”

He said having animals on the land is “a no-brainer”, but the way they farm and what we do with the animals needs to be reviewed.

“We can’t keep using the same model.

“We want to future-proof the farm because we want this place to still be here in 200 years for future generations to enjoy and benefit from.”

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Federated Farmers

23

fedfarm.org.nz – November 13, 2023

Re-fencing a godsend for cyclone-hit farmers

W

hen Cyclone Gabrielle blew through, it destroyed more than 16km of fencing on Warren Milligan’s farm in Te Karaka, just inland from Gisborne.

He’d worked hard to fence the river running through his property to keep stock out, but flooding from the February storm wiped it out.

At $30 a metre to replace, that’s a bill of $480,000.

“I can’t afford to put that amount of fencing back on my own,” Milligan said.

It’s no surprise that Milligan said help from Commence the Re-Fence and the Farmy Army has been a morale booster and “absolutely brilliant”.

The Re-Fence crew restored 400m of fenceline on his farm, and Farmy Army volunteers have also pitched in, building gates and tackling other clean-up tasks.

Milligan said affected farmers need to ditch any ‘just soldier on by yourself’ mentality.

“It’s a lot of stress to cope with.

When help is available, grab it.”

Federated Farmers meat and wool chair and Gisborne farmer Toby Williams said for many farmers, the damage is the equivalent of 15 or 20 years’ fencing budgets blown in one hit.

Eight months on, plenty of boundary fences in Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay are yet to be restored, let alone thousands of kilometres of internal fences.

“Any help restoring fences really lifts spirits,” Williams said.

Commence the Re-Fence was launched at the Fieldays in June, with Federated Farmers and the Farmy Army involved as partners.

Pivotal to its success is the donation of two tractors by Case IH and New Holland, and post-ramming gear from Hawke’s Bay farm machinery specialist Stevenson & Taylor.

“It’s fantastic that those guys stepped up like that,” Ben Moore, Farmy Army and Stock Feed coordinator for Federated Farmers, said.

“Those tractors are worth the best part of $100k each and we’re talking $25k-plus of rammers on the back.”

Money from the North Island Weather Event Fund and the Farmers Adverse Events Fund is paying for professional fencing contractors, and owners of cyclone-hit farms and lifestyle blocks get up to three days’ help.

A guy I’ve been dealing with, helping to get silage and hay in there, has estimated there’s 75km of fencing that still needs doing in Eskdale alone.

Ben Moore Federated Farmers Farmy Army and stock feed co-ordinator “For health and safety – that’s for animals and humans – the focus is on roadside fences, but fencelines on waterways and farm boundaries are also a priority,” Moore said.

Fences have been restored on more than 50 Hawke’s Bay properties.

“There’s a long way to go – for some farms it will take years to fully recover. A guy I’ve been dealing with, helping to get silage and hay in there, has estimated there’s 75km of fencing that still needs doing in Eskdale alone.”

The other donated tractor has been operating in the Te Karaka, Ōtoko area of Gisborne. Before they move on, Commence the Re-Fence will have given fencing support to 22 properties there.

In the first week of November, Moore travelled further up the East

Coast on SH35 to Te Araroa, Tikitiki and Ruatōria to assess the need.

“The amount of damage up there is astronomical,” he said. “We all know it’s a wild part of New Zealand, and there’s always been animals on the road, but it’s so much worse now, with fences down all over the place.

“We came round one bend and there were about 20 beef cattle on the road. I really had to the slam the anchors on.”

Moore said slumps and slips on roads continue to take out fencelines.

Waka Kotahi is exempt from Fencing Act obligations, but Moore argues that needs to be revisited.

“The transport agency should be just as concerned as farmers about the danger of stock on roads and when a road has slumped – perhaps because of lack of maintenance and clearing of culverts.

“Surely there should be some obligation on the Crown as well to contribute to getting fences up again?”

Moore encouraged cyclone-hit farmers north of Gisborne and on the East Cape to put up their hand for help from Commence the Re-Fence.

“Knowing where the fencing gap hotspots are will help with coordination and maximising bang for buck.”

Federated Farmers GisborneWairoa president Hunaara Wairehu added that there’s no need to feel whakama (shy or embarrassed) about getting this help.

“Mother Nature dealt Tairāwhiti a significant blow, and the sooner we can get farm fences back to where they should be, the faster we can restore production and keep stock off the roads.”

MORE:

If you need help, register at www.commencetherefence.co.nz

ON THE TOOLS: Kali Mocetadra is one of the fencing contractors making good use of the tractors and rammers donated for the Commence the Re-Fence campaign.

Who deserves a tractor?

Commence the Re-Fence will wind up next year, but that’s not where the generosity ends from Case IH and New Holland.

That’s because the two tractors they’ve donated to cyclonerecovery work will be given away to deserving farmers in the worsthit Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay provinces.

Nominations for who deserves the tractors are open now.

Stevenson & Taylor GM Robby

Smith said factors such as the severity of damage and the farmer’s need will help guide the selection committee’s decision.

“Obviously they’re not needed by a farmer who already has a $200,000 tractor sitting in the shed.

But someone with a 1950s Zetor and up to his eyeballs in work …”

MORE:

To nominate a farmer, go to www.commencetherefence.co.nz

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November 20, 2023 – fedfarm.org.nz

Federated Farmers

Southland farmers call for pause on water plan

H

it the brakes and take a pause. That’s the request from Federated Farmers to Environment Southland over the council’s Proposed Plan Change.

Southland’s regional council, along with 16 other councils around the country, are being pushed to bring in new Land and Water Plans by the end of 2024.

Councils are being forced to rush through this process because of unrealistic new rules set by a Government who have just been voted out, Federated Farmers Southland president Chris Dillon said.

There’s just too much pressure on our rural communities. We need to release that so we can reset and find local solutions to some of these challenges.

Chris Dillon Southland president The rules he’s talking about are the controversial 2020 National Policy Statement on Freshwater Management (NPS-FM).

In a submission to the council, Federated Farmers Southland pointed out that National campaigned on ‘getting farming out of Wellington’, with the aim of moving decision-making back to the regions and local communities.

“Federated Farmers believes

the NPS-FM should be repealed.

The focus should be on resource management reform before we do new regional plans,” Dillon said.

“It’s just wrong to create more uncertainty and distress for farmers and rural communities by rushing on with new regional plans that will radically reshape farming at any time, let alone in the current economic climate.”

Dillon said the agricultural sector – New Zealand’s export powerhouse – is hurting.

Interest rates and inflation are high, commodity prices and farmer confidence are low, and new regulations aren’t helping. Most farmers and growers are treading water, if not going backwards, he said.

Farming is the largest business sector in Southland when it comes to economic contribution. With a number of industries supporting the sector, it’s also one of the biggest employers in the province.

“There’s just too much pressure on our rural communities. We need to release that so we can reset and find local solutions to some of these challenges.”

Dillon said that, in an earlier round of community consultation, people were asked if they valued clean drinking water or being able to swim in local rivers. Of course, people said it was important.

“But there were no details about what the trade-offs or consequences would be for farmers, support industries, or rural towns if dairying was no longer viable in the

WHY NOW? It’s not logical to push on with the flawed NPS-Freshwater Management when the new Government is promising resource management reforms, Southland Federated Farmers president Chris Dillon says. catchment or if fertiliser use had to be drastically reduced.

“If people had known what the impact could be, they would have looked at the bigger picture. There would have been some serious questions about the science and economics of it all.

“Maybe we don’t need pristine water in winter when it’s too cold to swim, and riverbank erosion from higher winter flows and substandard

gravel management by the council increases sediment in the water.”

Dillon said the most important and difficult issues, like nutrient allocation, have been left too late in the process given some parts of the plan are due to come into force at the end of 2024.

“There are huge issues with the science the council are using.

Decisions are being made based on inaccurate modelling that will

have significant impacts on the local economy and farming families that we may not be able to come back from.”

Dillon said farmers have made huge changes to their practices in recent years that will have significant water quality benefits.

He knows from catchment groups he’s involved with that nutrient readings are looking positive for many waterways, thanks to riparian planting and the installation of runoff detainment bunds and sediment traps.

But the level of distrust in rural communities about planning processes means groups are reluctant to share data with authorities.

“It takes time for improvements to show in waterways, so in some places we’re not yet able to quantify the benefits, but there are real concerns about the accuracy of the council’s modelling compared to live data.”

Dillon agreed there are some degraded waterways in Southland that need improvements but he argues that restrictions should be output-focused.

“A broad-brush approach doesn’t account for the complexity and variability of farming systems. Every farm is different when it comes to their location, climate, geology and geography.

“Any allocation system needs to be able to deal with that complexity.

We need to take the time to get the balance right,” Dillon said.

In a letter to Environment Southland, Federated Farmers said it would send a “powerful message” if the council joined them in asking the new Government to pause the NPSFM process.

Much of Federated Farmers’ work on behalf of members happens in the regions and districts – fighting unfair rates increases, pushing for changes to impractical local authority regulations or clauses in district plans, and advocating for rural families’ interests on all fronts. Each week, we’ll use this page to shine a light on that work.

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Prime location, nestled in Northland's lush and temperate climate, ideal for beef farming. Exceptional pasture, meticulously subdivided with limestone races and lush rye grass and clover pastures, ensuring optimal cattle health and growth. Proven excellence, a legacy of top quality prime cattle production spanning over 55 years. Impressive infrastructure, three sets of efficient cattle yards, well maintained fencing, and a valuable limestone quarry. Turnkey operation, ready for immediate ownership with no additional investment required.

59.7 ha - This is a beauty - just immaculate!

Tender closes 4.00pm, Mon 4th Dec, 2023, Property Brokers, 180 Bank Street, Whangarei View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/WHR168663

Mike Colthurst M 021 741 414

• Milking 200 Jersey cows, twice a day, all season • 16 ASHB with padded standoff • Average of the last ten seasons = 72,693 kgMS • Excellent farm infrastructure • Quality pasture, fencing and races • Dairy NZ system 1-2 at a stocking rate of 3.5 cows/ha • Modernised five bedroom home plus two double garages • Good choice of schooling • Whakatane 20 km and Edgecumbe 9.7 km • Matata and the beach approximately 5 minutes away

Tender closes 12.00pm, Thu 23rd Nov, 2023 (unless sold prior), Property Brokers, 38 Landing Road, Whakatane View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/RTR166128

Robert Davies M 021 595 767 Ian Morgan M 027 492 5878

Cambridge 282 Roto O Rangi Road Auction

Prime horticulture options Cambridge horticulture at its finest. With 59.77 ha of flat, fertile, free draining soils, this is a property you need to see.

The farm has been used to raise seedling pines for the forestry market with over 1 million seedlings per year being produced. Currently growing a variety of horticultural crops. The 1920's built, three bedroom Californian bungalow style home is immaculately presented and comes with gas hot water and hob, timber features throughout, located well back from the road to give a sense of privacy and located only 7 km from Cambridge.

This property would suit a range of farming and horticulture options including vegetable growing, cropping, kiwifruit and other orchard and nursery applications.

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

Auction 12.00pm, Wed 6th Dec, 2023, (unless sold prior), Property Brokers, 138 Arawata Street, Te Awamutu View Wed 22 Nov 12.00 - 1.00pm Sun 26 Nov 11.00 - 12.00pm Web pb.co.nz/CBR167950 David McGuire M 027 472 2572

E david.mcguire@pb.co.nz

John Sisley M 027 475 9808

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

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Chelly & Ian Paeroa Rotokohu Road - Dairy Portfolio Tender

'In Receivership' - Substantial dairy opportunity Total land area 527.99 ha (more or less). Large dairy opportunity for investors seeking to acquire a large scale dairy portfolio located in the Hauraki Plains District. Five operational dairy farms with multiple titles and contiguous boundaries. Three year production average of 584,000 kgMS (accounting for a lease of two adjoining blocks of 57 ha and 8 ha (more or less), which the purchaser will need to negotiate to continue). Good accommodation provided by nine dwellings. Livestock can be purchased. The properties are located on Rotokohu Road and Thorp Road in close proximity to Paeroa township. Capitalise on efficiencies that can be created by scale and enquire today.

Final Open Day between 11.00am - 1.00pm on Wednesday, 22 November 2023.

Note: Please sign in at “Farm 82” on Farm Open Days

Coromandel 57 Hall Road and 2511 Kopu Hikuai Roads - SH 25A

Tender closes 2.00pm, Thu 30th Nov, 2023 (unless sold prior), Property Brokers, 78 Studholme Street, Morrinsville View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/MAR171261

Ian Morgan M 027 492 5878

E ian.morgan@pb.co.nz

Chelly Aitchison M 022 697 8779

E chelly@pb.co.nz

Paeroa County Road

Tender

'In Receivership' - Hikuai Farms 136 ha (more or less) dairy unit in two titles of flat to rolling contour with steeper sidlings. Three year production average of 78,936 kgMS from approximately 230 cows. Farm improvements include a modern 32 ASHB dairy shed, in-shed meal feeders, 16 tonne silo, four bay implement shed with concrete floor, half round calf shed, storage shed, fertiliser bunker and Kliptank for effluent storage. There is one three-bedroom weatherboard farm dwelling.

81 ha (more or less) drystock block in one title is available to be purchased with the dairy unit or standalone. This property is of rolling contour, currently subdivided into 13 paddocks, with yards and load out ramp.

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

Tender

'In Receivership' - County Road Tender closes 2.00pm, Thu 30th Nov, 2023 (unless sold prior), Property Brokers, 78 Studholme Street, Morrinsville View Thu 23 Nov 10.00 - 10.45am Web pb.co.nz/MAR171267

Tender closes 2.00pm, Thu 30th Nov, 2023 (unless sold prior), Property Brokers, 78 Studholme Street, Morrinsville This property is a bare grazing block subdivided into approximately View Thu 23 Nov 2.00 - 2.30pm eight paddocks.

Web pb.co.nz/MAR171269

59 ha (more or less) drystock / grazing property in two titles with rolling contour.

Ian Morgan M 027 492 5878

Ian Morgan M 027 492 5878

Chelly Aitchison M 022 697 8779

Chelly Aitchison M 022 697 8779

Proud to be here

27

Taumarunui 987 Ongarue Back Road

Taumarunui 66 Kirton Road Open Day

Pukeawa On top of a hill overlooking picturesque King Country farmland is this stunning small farm / large lifestyle property only 13.8 km to Taumarunui. The house has been designed to make the most of the sun and rural aspect. Built in 2016, the large 301 m2 home is built with family living and entertainment in mind. There are sheltered outdoor living spaces so you can sit, eat, and take in the views and enjoy the quiet rural environment. Inside there are two large living areas, plus an office, three big bedrooms and two bathrooms plus a very spacious and practical laundry / utility room.

The storage space in this home is incredible and would make it so easy to live in.

3

Open Day

Ribbonwood

2

Deadline Sale closes Wednesday 6th December, 2023 at 11.00am, (unless sold prior) View Sat 25 Nov 1.00 - 2.00pm Web pb.co.nz/TUR173275

Katie Walker M 027 757 7477

This super contoured dairy farm on the outskirts of Taumarunui is an outstanding opportunity. The property is 100.37 ha (STS) (approx) plus two lease blocks that make up the 125 ha (approx) milking platform producing an average of 90,000 kgMS from 300 cows. Located just 8.5 km from Taumarunui township, on the edge of the Whanganui River, the dairy platform has an excellent layout with short walks on flat to easy rolling contour. The cow shed is centrally located and is supported by a good range of farm buildings. The farm has a high standard of improvements with quality pastures, pumice lanes and tidy fencing. The main home is a comfortable four bedroom home.

Tender closes 11.00am, Fri 8th Dec, 2023 (unless sold prior), Property Brokers, 27 Hakiaha Street, Taumarunui View Tue 21 Nov 1.00 - 2.00pm Web pb.co.nz/TUR166654

Katie Walker M 027 757 7477

Kereru 364 Poporangi Road New Listing

Whenuapapa 281ha, Kereru. Hawkes Bay Situated in the strong farming district of Kereru, approx. 50 minutes west of Hastings city lies a high performing beef/cattle farm. Whenuapapa is currently run as an Angus stud breeding farm and is very well set up to continue as a cattle farm or look at similar farming operations. The majority of the farm is flat contour with a fantastic central lane system allowing for easy stock and vehicle movement. The farm has been well subdivided into 74 paddocks with a mix of conventional and electric fencing. There is plenty of water with two schemes available and a fully reticulated system across the entire property. Fertilizer has been applied annually since 2009 and further information is available on request. Generally described as summer safe area in Hawkes Bay with annual rainfall normally around 1,200 ml/pa. The property has a very comfortable large four bedroom home set in mature gardens with numerous sheds either beside the home or adjacent to the home.

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

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1

Deadline Sale closes Friday 15th December, 2023 at 2.00pm, (unless sold prior) View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/HR173644

Mike Heard M 027 641 9007

E mike.heard@pb.co.nz Proud to be here

28

Apiti 451 Table Flat Road New Listing

Oroua Terraces - 305 ha

5+4

With outstanding productive capabilities and infrastructure, Oroua Terraces will appeal to all those looking for an iconic property. Located only minutes from Apiti and 40 minutes to Feilding, this property features in excess of 125 ha of flats, an architecturally designed homestead, free draining soils, modern pastures, and a great balance of contour. Historically land use includes dairy, cash and fodder crops, finishing, support and breeding. Farm improvements include excellent tracking and races, multiple implement sheds, multiple sets of sheep and cattle yards, woolshed and both conventional and electric fencing. Housing consists of a beautifully positioned four bedroom homestead plus office plus an attached self contained unit as well as a second four bedroom dwelling. With the Oroua River as its northern boundary providing aesthetic appeal, a dwelling with few rivals, an environment and soils types that know few limitations, this property demands your consideration.

2+1

3+4

Deadline Sale closes Thursday 14th December, 2023 at 11.00am, (unless sold prior), 54 Kimbolton Road, Feilding View Wed 22 Nov 12.00 - 12.15pm Web pb.co.nz/FR173474 Yvonne Forlong M 021 456 565 E yvonnef@pb.co.nz Blair Cottrill M 027 354 5419 E blair@pb.co.nz Stuart Sutherland M 027 452 1155 E stuarts@pb.co.nz

Bulls 287 State Highway 1 Tender

Multi season productivity - 182 ha Located on the edge of Bulls, this property has been developed to mitigate the limitations of both summer and winter production. With a 110 ha of centre pivot irrigation, extensive drainage, loafing pad and covered wintering barns, 'Killeymoon' has massive multi season productive capability. Farm infrastructure includes two centre pivot irrigators, 40 ASHB shed, brand new eight and six bay implement sheds, feed pad/wintering barns, and excellent support buildings.

Recent capital development has included a new water filtration and water system, upgraded effluent storage and central race development. The main dwelling, a four bedroom weatherboard homestead, has open plan living, a separate large billiard room and is heated by two wood burners, both the second and third dwellings are two bedroom.

With a significant capital expenditure program evident in the past two years, this property presents an opportunity for the new owner to take advantage of and reap the productive rewards.

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

Tender closes 11.00am, Thu 7th Dec, 2023, 54 Kimbolton Road, Feilding View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/FR168190 Blair Cottrill M 027 354 5419 E blair@pb.co.nz Stuart Sutherland M 027 452 1155 E stuarts@pb.co.nz Ted Shannon M 021 833 536 E ted.shannon@pb.co.nz Proud to be here

29

Pahiatua Thompsons Road New Listing

First farm or diversify - 164 ha This beef grazing and dairy support property is well located just 12 km east of Pahiatua and within commuting distance to the Manawatu.

Essentially bareland, the property offers a blank canvas for the new owner to add their touch to this strong hill country.

Currently utilised as part of a larger dairy and beef business, the property features recently updated tracking and ample natural water throughout.

The property features a strong limestone base with multiple road access points allowing for alternative farming practices.

Ashburton 1005 Longbeach Road

Tender closes 2.00pm, Wed 20th Dec, 2023, Property Brokers Pahiatua, 129 Main Street Pahiatua View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/PR116714

Jared Brock M 027 449 5496

E jared@pb.co.nz

Jamie Smith M 027 220 8311

E jamie.smith@pb.co.nz

Waimumu 110/78 Waimumu Road Deadline Sale

95.02 ha - Quintessential class 'Rostrevor' located in the highly regarded Eiffelton farming area 16 km from Ashburton, is a quintessential rural homestead and landholding that exudes class and quality. The 'jewel in the crown' of this property is the homestead reached by tree lined driveway and situated amongst mature park-like landscaped grounds. A sheltered, private enclave with character and charm, typical of an English manor with an immediate appeal that will captivate and provide a base and investment for your family now and future generations. The 95 ha irrigated farm consists of three titles with quality Wakanui / Longbeach soils, providing a sound base for intensive arable / horticultural or livestock land use.

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

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3

2

Deadline Sale closes Thursday 14th December, 2023 at 12.00pm, (unless sold prior), Property Brokers Ashburton View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/AR171814

Greg Jopson M 027 447 4382

Deadline Sale

Self contained dairy unit - 292 ha Established in 2014, Waimumu Downs has gone from strength to strength with a strong record of production and an emphasis on environmental care that has seen the farm be nominated for and win, several awards over the past decade. With an effective area of 268 ha and a milking platform of 206 ha, all stock is wintered on farm on a grass-only system. Milking is done from a 50 bail rotary shed with DeLaval plant, centrally located on the farm and approximately nine years old. The lanes are in good to fair condition throughout and all fences are in good order. Two standalone homes are included as well as two flats in the former DSIR complex which are currently tenanted.

4

1

Deadline Sale closes Friday 15th December, 2023 at 4.00pm, (unless sold prior) View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/GOR166543

Ryan Osborne M 027 340 4333

Proud to be here

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Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate – November 20, 2023

Edendale 545 Coal Pit Road Deadline Sale

Simply the best This is a very productive high producing and therefore profitable 123.80 ha dairy farm. The Vendors converted this farm 30 years ago. They have farmed it themselves for a number of years and in recent times have employed 50/50 sharemilkers. It is so simple to manage, the dairy shed is centrally located along with the calf shed, this makes the walks short for the cows. The farm is located very handy to both Edendale and Wyndham townships, schooling and their respective communities. Being by the Mataura River you have access to some of the best Brown Trout fishing available in Southland. We also have for sale presently 106.58 ha next door which is in three titles. Inspection is a must.

Offers over $4,020,000 + GST (if any) will be considered.

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

Deadline Sale closes Thursday 7th December, 2023 at 4.00pm, (unless sold prior), Property Brokers Invercargill, 62 Deveron Street, Level 1 Hargest House, Invercargill 9840 View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/IR164985 Wayne Clarke M 027 432 5768

E wayne.clarke@pb.co.nz

John Hay M 027 435 0138

E john.hay@pb.co.nz

Kevin Deane Real Estate

Te Awamutu 487-507 Pekanui Road Morrinsville 884 Horrell Road 60ha

T is for Tatua Now I’ve got your attention let’s talk business!

On offer is just over 60ha of some of the most desirable dairying opportunity in New Zealand.

With over 90,000MSEs on offer, a great range of infrastructure and 100% effective land - what more could you ask for... apart from New Zealand’s highest dairy company payout??

See you at an open day soon - Auction Day is Action Day.

Auction Thursday 14 December 11:00am (unless sold prior) View Wednesday 22, 29 Nov, 6, 13 Dec at 11:00am - 12:00pm www.harcourts.co.nz/ML8393

Kevin Deane M 021 970 902

Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Seriously For Sale With Multiple Purchasing Options

Whether it be a larger farming operation a smaller first farm or a top notch grazing or lifestyle you seek, these exciting new listings located just 15 minutes’ drive from the Pirongia Village offer incredible value for money in a location sought by many.

Purchasing options include the following: • 236.0353 ha dairy unit in entirety • 161.6340 ha (subject to survey) smaller affordable dairy option • 71.3000 ha (subject to survey) grazing/support block with x factor • 9480m2 lifestyle with comfortable 3 bedroom home with office • 2.1533 ha (subject to survey) lifestyle section with incredible views.

Improvements on the dairy include a tidy 40 aside Herringbone cowshed and feed pad, a good standard of shedding, and depending on which land area is of interest, there are 3 homes available. For more information and price range that will be sure to get your attention, contact Kerry today.

For Sale Tender closes Thurs 14 Dec, 1pm (unless sold prior) View Open Days: Fri 17 Nov, Wed 22 Nov, Wed 29 Nov, Wed 6 Dec, 11.00am-1.00pm blueribbonharcourts.co.nz/property/OH22251 / OH22248 / OH22250 / OH22252 / OH22254

Kerry Harty M 027 294 6215 P 07 873 8700 E kjharty@harcourts.co.nz Blue Ribbon Realty Limited Licensed Agent REAA 2008

31

Hunterville 460 Leedstown Road

Fertile arable, sheep and beef property.

47.0068 ha

This 47 hectare (116 acre) block of fertile flat and rolling arable land is currently being run as a sheep and beef unit offers a number of opportunities. Situated between Marton and Hunterville townships in the Rangitikei district.

Land in this area is strongly held and this property offers an opportunity to develop a finishing farm to complement existing farming operations. Alternatively, the properties mainly flat land has previously grown several commercial cash crops. Fenced into eight paddocks to facilitate strategic pasture management this relatively blank canvas could make an ideal larger lifestyle property with a possible income stream. The soils are Kiwitea silt loam predominately with an area of Hunterville Silt Loam Hill. The property has a solid stock water system in place. Call to view this property.

Auction (unless sold prior) 12pm, Mon 4 Dec 2023 243 Broadway Avenue, Palmerston North Phone for viewing times Andrew Bonnor 027 941 7630 andrew.bonnor@bayleys.co.nz MID WEST REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/3100543

Eighty Eight Valley 959 Eighty Eight Valley Road

Historic farm, superb location and lifestyle

754.5916 ha

One of Nelson’s oldest sheep stations, less than an hour’s drive from Nelson, is for sale for the first time in 161 years, presenting a stunning opportunity for new owners. Highfield Station is elevated in Eighty Eight Valley, near Wakefield, a magnificent property of rolling pasture and higher country behind its homestead. The 754-hectare sheep and beef farm has only ever been owned by the Hunt family, who began its development in 1862.The property offers a two-storey homestead, renovated 50 years ago, with a garden setting of natives and palms and incorporating tennis court and swimming pool. There’s a second, similar-age, house of four bedrooms, numerous out-buildings, the original woolshed, open and covered yards for sheep and cattle, a variety of implement and storage sheds, and an old cottage. An air strip, with fertilizer bins, provides capacity for top-dressing.

Price Indication $7,995,000 + GST (if any) View by appointment Fritz Horlemann 0274 338 208 fritz.horlemann@bayleys.co.nz VINING REALTY GROUP LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/4020807

bayleys.co.nz

32

Helensville 146 Fuller Road, South Head Farmer, hunter, water lover!

Located on the serene shores of Lake Kuwakatai is this picturesque 111 hectare (274 acre) dairy operation. Spanning two titles, the property's fertile flat to easy rolling contour unfolds across approximately 54 well-subdivided paddocks seamlessly connected by an extensive limestone race network system. Other features include a 34 ASHB cowshed, reliable water supply, calf rearing facilities and two houses. For the hunter gatherer, the farm welcomes regular visits from wild fallow deer, whilst direct access to the lake opens opportunities for boating, canoeing, and a frontrow seat to an abundance of birdlife. The property is being offered for sale for the first time in 50 years - don't delay!

Morrinsville 66-76 Studholme Street 111.1508 ha Tender (unless sold prior) Closing 12pm, Fri 15 Dec 2023 41 Queen Street, Warkworth View by appointment John Barnett 021 790 393 john.barnett@bayleys.co.nz MACKYS REAL ESTATE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Non-discretionary income with turnover upside • Recently agreed four-year lease extension with 5.4-year lease tail • Returning $471,683pa net + GST, plus turnover rental Servicing one of New Zealand’s most prosperous dairy farming areas, Countdown Morrinsville represents a resilient investment proposition.

bayleys.co.nz/1696134

1,876 sqm

1,724 sqm

Asking Price $6,475,000 + GST (if any) View by appointment Josh Smith 027 229 8865 josh.smith@bayleys.co.nz David Cashmore 021 943 305 david.cashmore@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/1203745

Boundary lines are indicative only

Boundary lines are indicative only

Boundary lines are indicative only

Taupo 957 Poihipi Road, Kinloch

Rotorua 385 Whirinaki Valley Road, Ngakuru

Montana – dairy farming with pride Montana will give you a lift once you enter the tree lined driveway and take in the immaculate surrounds. This 199 hectare (more or less) property offers a solid investment in all that you would expect from a dairy farm. Approximately six kms from Taupo, this property enables the new owner to capitalize on everything a thriving town like Taupo has to offer. Montana is milking 630 cows through a 44 ASHB. The 630 cows have produced 270,698ms for the 2022/2023 season. Only 300 of the 630 cows are wintered off the property. This is the best example of a large dairy unit you will find this close to Taupo. Call today to find out more.

bayleys.co.nz/2654636

199 ha Tender (unless sold prior) Closing 1pm, Wed 6 Dec 2023 44 Roberts Street, Taupo View by appointment Stan Sickler 021 275 7826 stan.sickler@bayleys.co.nz WESTERMAN REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Looking for an honest large scale dairy farm – found it A 342 hectare (more or less) dairy unit, South of Rotorua located in Ngakuru - a proven valley. Currently milking 700 cows this season, previous seasons have milked 800 through an immaculate 48-aside herringbone cowshed, recently fitted out with automatic cup removers. Producing a 5 year rolling average of 296,366 kgMS. The milking platform is currently 280 hectares, the farm has 32 hectares available for you to grow your own young stock, or extra animals as required. This is a rare opportunity to purchase a quality dairy farm with proven production and multiple titles.

bayleys.co.nz/2654637

bayleys.co.nz

342 ha For Sale offers invited over $8,000,000 + GST (if any) View by appointment Stan Sickler 021 275 7826 stan.sickler@bayleys.co.nz WESTERMAN REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Real Estate

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate – November 20, 2023

Boundary lines are indicative only

Cheviot 773 Cat Hill Road

Springston 379 Days Road

Simply run hill country property Cat Hill is approximately 1,477ha and has around 9km of Hurunui River frontage - well regarded for its fishing and boating complemented with hunting on the property, making this a recreational paradise. Good healthy stock country underpins an easy-care, low-cost farming operation. The property has very good track access and a mix of reticulated water to the lower blocks and paddocks, with springs and creeks to the top. There is very good access, feeding from the hill onto the river flats providing for ease of management of both sheep and cattle, with excellent low-maintenance sheep yards, including covered yards and a three-stand raised-board woolshed and cattle yards. Two good homes provide accommodation.

1,477.3449 ha Asking Price $6,950,000 + GST (if any) Phone for viewing times Ben Turner 027 530 1400 ben.turner@bayleys.co.nz Peter Foley 021 754 737 peter.foley@bayleys.co.nz WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/5519455

Sudarra Farm

78.4212 ha

At 78.4212 hectares (more or less), this is a rare opportunity being a dairy farm of this size. Consented to milk up to 250 cows in the 24-aside herringbone dairy shed, Sudarra Farm features wellsheltered paddocks ensuring excellent grass growth, even in drier years, while the low-cost water system guarantees economical irrigation. Irrigation water is supplied from two wells, irrigated via three Southern Cross guns on the main block and Rotorainer on the lease block. The property has extensive shedding including a 12-bay hay shed/calf shed. The four-bedroom spacious family home is a comfortable retreat, with a private outdoor living area, the main living area connects seamlessly to the outdoor patio.

Located 5.5kms from Lincoln.

Deadline Sale (unless sold prior) 12pm, Thu 7 Dec 2023 3 Deans Avenue, Christchurch Phone for viewing times Ben Turner 027 530 1400 ben.turner@bayleys.co.nz Evan Marshall 027 221 0910 evan.marshall@bayleys.co.nz WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/5522433

KAIRIMU BLOCK

THUNDERCROSS VALLEY DIRT BIKE PARK

VERSATILE LANDHOLDING + INCOME POTENTIAL

MULTIPLE INCOME STREAMS INCLUDING POTENTIAL PUBLIC CAFE

Kairimu Block is an attractive landholding totaling 879 hectares (subject to subdivision) consisting of mostly clean farm land, planted and regenerating mānuka, younger age class Radiata pine, and mixed-age native bush. Operated as a breeding block for a larger station, Kairimu is capable of being run as a standalone support block with key infrastructure in place. Located near Marokopa beach and surrounded by native reserve land providing ample opportunity for hunting, Kairimu has appeal for those looking for a substantial landholding with income potential.

Thundercross Valley Dirt Bike Park is a highly regarded adventure tourism business operating on a versatile 300 hectare landholding near Glen Murray – less than 100km* to Auckland and Hamilton and 160km* to Tauranga. In addition to the Dirt Bike Park, the farm land is currently leased for grazing cattle. There are a range of opportunities for either a hands-on farmer or investor alike, to increase revenue through adding accommodation or activities such as paintball or ziplining to maximise the potential from this Highway 22 location. A comfortable four-bedroom home with an established garden and an elevated setting awaits, providing the perfect view over the valley.

FOR SALE

Marokopa, Waikato

+ 879ha* freehold (subject to subdivision), 432ha* farm land; + Predominantly undulating – moderately steep contour; + Arterial track network, satellite yards, spring fed reticulated water;

+ Income potential via 3rd party Beehive Access License & ETS; + 63km* to Te Kūiti, 112km* to Hamilton; + 142ha* ETS registered (radiata and indigenous); + This farm land is available for sale;

Glen Murray, Waikato

+ Over 3,000 riders per annum; + 38kms of formed tracks and on-site quarry; + 4 bedroom / 2 bathroom home + 4 bay implement shed + Majority easy contour; + 237ha* effective grazing;

+ Rustic ‘Wool Shed’ with public cafe potential subject to consenting; + Attractive basin setting and mature bush; + Two sets yards and reticulated water; + This business and farm land is available for sale;

Deadline Offers: Thursday 7 December 2023 at 4pm (NZDT)**

Deadline Offers: Friday 8 December 2023 at 4pm (NZDT)**

Wyatt Johnston +64 27 815 1303 Jeremy Keating +64 21 461 210

Jeremy Keating +64 21 461 210 Wyatt Johnston +64 27 815 1303

*Approximately **Unless sold prior

Arotahi Agribusiness Limited, Licensed Real Estate Agent REA Act

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate – November 20, 2023

Real Estate

Accelerating Success.

Work, Life, Balance For Sale

5301 State Highway 6, Marlborough For Sale by Deadline Sale closing Wednesday 6 December 2023 at 2pm • 68.05ha in two titles centrally located between Blenheim and Nelson • Ideal for intensive beef grazing, dairy support, calf rearing or continue the current milking operation without staff issues, the perfect one person property • Currently milking 140 cows, 14 ASHB shed, wintering barn, numerous sheds and outbuildings. 30ha k-line irrigation, reliable 1880mm rainfall • Exceptionally well presented five bedroom residence, positioned on an elevated setting with unobstructed views A must view property if you’re wanting a lifestyle with income located in the very desirable Marlborough region and close proximity to the Pelorus Sounds.

Andy Poswillo 027 420 4202 colliers.co.nz/p-NZL67026210

Marlborough Rural Realty Limited Colliers Licensed REAA 2008

Real Estate

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate – November 20, 2023

RURAL | LIFESTYLE | RESIDENTIAL

OPEN DAY

WHAKATANE, BOP 672 Thornton Road and 96A Thornton Hall Road Blue Chip Dairy Performance • • • • • • • • •

4

TENDER

2

Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 4.00pm, Thursday 14 December

106.5136 hectares (STT more or less) 96.14 effective Irrigated area of 68 hectares (more or less) Van den bosh system Upgraded effluent system with new resource consent compliance Groundwater resource consent compliance in place until 2033 40 ASHB with in-shed feed system & 16-tonne silo Excellent fertiliser history and application Well-presented four-bedroom home with sleep-out 10km to Whakatane CBD & 3km to Thornton Primary School Willing to sell as a going concern purchase option if desired

VIEW 12.00-1.00pm Wednesdays 22 & 29 November

Enjoy the region's sports and recreation attractions with Ohope and Thornton Beach's on your doorstep, along with the area's freshwater lakes and rivers for skiing and fishing. Seize this opportunity for a harmonious blend of agricultural prosperity and coastal living!

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

pggwre.co.nz/WHK38714 Helping grow the country

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

RURAL | LIFESTYLE | RESIDENTIAL

AUCTION

TENDER

EKETAHUNA, TARARUA 51 Falkner Road Entry Level Dairy Farm

CAMBRIDGE, 2/164 Fencourt Road 3

2

3.3490 ha

Luxury Living, Stunning Rural Views, Top Location!

4

This stunning property boasts a luxurious modern family home on a highly desirable block, with uninterrupted rural views of the surrounding hills - only a few minutes drive to beautiful Cambridge, New Zealand.

AUCTION: 12:00 p.m. Thursday 7 December 2023, NZSIR Cambridge (unless sold prior)

Renewed pastures on free-draining, quality soils are subdivided by hotwired, post and rail fencing into four paddocks with specimen trees for shade. There is a four-bay shed with one lockable bay, a water bore servicing both house and land and Te Pari Cattle Yards with head bail, load-out ramp and concrete race to complete the perfect picture.

VIEW: nzsothebysrealty.com/CAM1240 Please phone for an appointment to view

Unique offering. Be in quick!

AIMEE BELTON: M +64 210 277 2426 aimee.belton@nzsir.com

After a profitable 24 years our vendor has decided to move on from this 128ha dairy farm situated in the summer safe area of Eketahuna. The property has mainly rolling contour complemented by approx 40ha of flats. 25 ASHB cowshed with a 300-cow feed pad plus support buildings.

Most supplementary feed is produced on farm and only a small portion of off farm grazing during winter months. Two x 4-bedroom homes with ave 77,226kg MS with minimal inputs. This sale represents an ideal opportunity for an aspiring young farmer to step into their first farm at a realistic entry level.

4

1

TENDER Plus GST (if any)

(Unless Sold Prior) Closes 3.00pm, Friday 15 December

VIEW By Appointment Only

Gary Patrick M 027 450 4290 E gary.patrick@pggwrightson.co.nz Andy Scott M 027 448 4047 E andy.scott@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz/MAS38670 Each office is independently owned and operated. NZSIR Waikato Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

nzsothebysrealty.com

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

Helping grow the country

36 Marketplace

Marketplace

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

Find primary sector vacancies at:

Towable Flail Mower

14.5HP. Vanguard Briggs & Stratton Motor.

Electric start. 1.2m cut 3 year Briggs and Stratton Commercial Warranty.

2 year Mower Master Warranty Assembled by Kiwis for Kiwi conditions – built to last.

To advertise phone 0800 85 25 80

To find out more visit

LK0115404©

www.mowermaster.co

ben@waterhousecc.co.nz 027 559 7168

BRIDGE & STRUCTURE MAINTENANCE Providing affordable repair & maintenance solutions for your expensive assets. Waterhouse Complex Civil are specialists in repairing & maintaining bridges, waterway remediation.

Farm bridges and structures showing signs of age?

Don't let these valuable assets deteriorate any further!

Rimunui Station, located 7km from Gisborne CBD, is a 1000ha effective breeding and finishing property consisting of easy, medium and steep hill country, wintering 350 Angus stud breeding cows/ heifers and 2200 breeding ewes/hoggets.

With a closed herd, self-contained strategy the business has established the position of Grazing Operations Manager to achieve best practice in pasture grown and harvested, people and safety, live weight and profitability targets. Key to achieving this will be the leadership of the the grazing block supervisory team and your ability to work closely, and successfully, with the dairy operations team.

The well-known Kaharau Angus Stud has been operating at Rimunui Station for over 30 years.

The successful applicant must have a strong team of dogs and be able to work alone, a good sense of humour with a cando attitude.

To be successful in winning this role you’ll come from a commercial, relationship orientated role, likely in a corporate aligned with the agri sector. You’ll have been exposed to leadership situations and be developing your own style that effectively navigates across diverse people and situations. You’ll be smart, think laterally, and have sound commercial and financial acumen.

They will be part of a well organised, cohesive team and will answer to the Manager.

Living on the farm is required, a comfortable three bedroom Lockwood home is provided and school bus pick up is at the gate.

Close to town, enables employment opportunities for a partner.

Operationally you’ll understand the key levers and drivers in a farm system, be dextrous in your thinking with the ability to shift, navigate and negotiate based on the situation and changing circumstances. You’ll develop mutually respectful relationships and be used to working and holding your own in an environment where everyone knows as much, and often more, than you do.

Keen to know more? For a confidential discussion contact Toni Trusler at our recruitment partners No8HR toni@no8hr.com or pick up the phone for an informal chat 0275 998 909

stock underpasses, culverts, &

Top property in a dream location is seeking an experienced Shepherd.

Dairy Holdings Ltd is recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading dairy businesses, led by business and sector experts with a strong growth trajectory, a clear vision for the business now and into the future.

GST INCLUSIVE

Phone 0800 422277 or 028 461 5112 Email: mowermasterltd@gmail.com

For dream location

Canterbury

LK0116486©

GO THE MOA!

GRAZING OPERATIONS MANAGER

farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz

$4900

EXPERIENCED SHEPHERD

Private Hunting Block on doorstep.

Competitive remuneration package.

View photos on Trade Me jobs.

Please e-mail applications with CV to: tracy@gisborne.net.nz Phone Nick Carr on 021 656 023 Applications close 15th December 2023 LK0117291©

MOWER MASTER TOWABLE MOWERS

LK0117259©

36

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

EXPERIENCE SUSPENSION™

WITH TRIPLE MOWING TECHNOLOGY From $12,999 RRP Ferris® suspension systems are engineered to provide you with a smooth ride on uneven ground.

The deck of the mower works in conjunction with the suspension system to provide a consistent quality of cut.

And, the TRIPLE mower deck (on selected models*), now gives you side discharge, rear discharge and mulching configurations that can be converted as required. *TRIPLE Deck available on the 400S and ISX2200 (not shown).

You wouldn’t drive a car without suspension.

So why buy a Ride-on without it?

Take a Ferris for a test drive.

Phone 0800 274 447 for your nearest dealer.

Or visit ferrismowers.com for more information.

FERRIS® SRS®Z1 STAND-ON

FERRIS® ISX™800Z - 52” deck

FERRIS® 400S - 48” deck

Ride confidently into narrow spaces with advanced comfort and stability. The new SRS Z1 offers excellent productivity with our exclusive suspension technology - all in a compact frame that will fit into a van or smaller trailer. RRP from $18,899inc.

Featuring ForeFront™ next generation Ferris suspension, a 2-belt iCD™ cutting system, heavy-duty Hydro-Gear® drive system & travel speeds up to 16 kph/h, the zero turn ISX™ 800 is engineered to increase efficiency and comfort. RRP from $21,999inc.

Affordable & durable with commercial-grade power and maneuverability. Advanced debris management system, large turf friendly 20” tyres for increased traction, with speeds up to 12.8km/h. RRP from $12,999inc.

FW/FERRIS/2023

37

HIGH COUNTRY JOURNEYS

REGISTER NOW:

FREE FENCING Drive from station to station and experience the majestic South Island High Country Limited spaces available for 2024 • South Island High Country Grand Slam Self drive your own 4WD from Blenheim to Cardrona in Central Otago through a network of high country tracks including Molesworth on this 7 day 8 night tour.

• The Great Explorer Self drive from Lake Ohau to Cardrona through the majestic high country of the Mackenzie Basin, Central Otago and Northern Southland with this 5 day 6 night tour.

We can help sort that for you with a website that works 24/7 NZ and World wide www.darksmokedigital.com or https://www. facebook.com/darksmokewebsolutions

These Tours are; Fully guided with radio contact; Fully catered and stay in very comfortable lodge and farmstays; Made up of smaller tour groups (6-9 vehicles) and travel at a quieter pace.

Each bundle donated at our Farmers Community Connect event is worth $1500.

Tell us your vision and together we can make it a reality.

Available NZ wide Phone 027 222 8481

LK0117005©

For further information contact: John Mulholland RD1, RANFURLY Phone 03 444 9703 • Mobile 027 228 8152 lnfo@highcountryjourneys.co.nz www.highcountryjourneys.co.nz

RRT understands farmers need a hand after a disaster, and has so far donated 73,000 fencing posts and 280km of fencing wire at four events.

To get your free fencing, register at www.bit.ly/kaiparaFCC or phone 028 2550 0838

ANIMAL HANDLING

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 ro d i p. c o m

DELIVERING AND BUYING NZ Wide. https:// w w w.youtube.com/@ mikehughesworkingdog Phone 07 315 5553.

BEARDIE HEADING DOGCROSS pups. 3-months old, working parents. South Auckland. Phone 027 486 5361.

ANIMAL AND HUMAN healer, also manipulation on horses and dogs. Mid South Canterbury, 20th November, North Otago/Dunedin/South Otago, 21st-23rd November.

Gore/Southland, 24th-27th November. West and Central Otago/Maniototo, 28th30th November. Phone Ron Wilson 027 435 3089.

CRAIGCO SHEEP JETTERS. Sensor Jet. Deal to fly and Lice now. Guaranteed performance.

Unbeatable pricing.

Phone 06 835 6863. www.craigcojetters.com

BEARDIE HUNTAWAY. 11 months old. Good noise, beautiful nature. Phone 027 243 8541.

SMITHFIELD-CROSS heading dog pups.

Parents good handy dogs.

Maungaturoto. $350. Phone 021 257 1680.

YOUNG HUNTAWAYS AND Heading dogs. Top working bloodlines. Check out our website www. ringwaykennels.co.nz Ringway kennels. Phone 027 248 7704.

ELECTRO-TEK ENGINEERING

FOR ONLY $2.30 + gst per word you can book a word only ad in Farmers Weekly Classifieds. Phone 0800 85 25 80.

IS CANADA IN YOUR FUTURE?

ATTENTION FARMERS WANTING A COUNTRY home with shed or sizable shed with power and amenities, north Taranaki. lease or buy. Phone 027 222 8481.

Rocky Mountain Equipment (RME) is one of Canada’s largest agriculture equipment dealership networks with branches located throughout the Western Canadian prairie provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. We are primarily focused on the CASE IH and the New Holland brands.

Through our network of RME locations we sell, rent and lease new and used agriculture and industrial equipment and offer product support, including equipment servicing, to our customers.

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

0800 436 566 BOOK AN AD. For only $2.30 + gst per word you can book a word only ad in Farmers Weekly Classifieds section. Phone 0800 85 25 80 to book in or email wordads@agrihq.co.nz

Consider a Canadian personal and professional adventure with us! Great overseas experience. We are now hiring for the following positions:

BALAGE FOR SALE



EXCELLENT QUALITY, $85 per bale plus GST. Unit loads available. Phone 021 455 787.

  

BIRDS/POULTRY PULLETS HY-LINE brown, great layers. 07 824 1762.

Website: eurekapoultryfarm. weebly.com – Have fresh eggs each day!!!

Job details at: www.farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz

LK0116825©

CHILLERS & FREEZERS

ROCKYMTN.COM

Or something unique on your own terms with no middleman but don’t know how to reach customers?

NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR 2025

LK0117212©

LK0117273©

Produce or run a farm stay or hunting lodge?

The Rapid Relief Team (RRT) charity is offering free fencing to farmers impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle.

Register by 23 November to pick up your free fencing bundle at Wellsford on November 30.

Key attributes to succeed in this role will include: • Open and transparent communication skills • Ability to build strong relationships with farm owners, contractors, suppliers and farm advisor • Feed budgeting and regular pasture cover assessment is essential to maximise pasturebased production • Excellent animal husbandry and general farm maintenance skills To Apply: Please email your CV, statement of financial position, and details of two referees by 8th December to: Dave Peacocke dave@pastoral.co.nz 027 473 2382

Are you wanting to sell your stock?

FOR CYCLONE IMPACTED FARMERS

We are seeking: • A motivated individual or couple with a proven track record of dairy farm management or contract milking

Make $$$$$ on your terms!

LK0117342©

Central Waikato 50:50 Sharemilking Position On Offer: • 50:50 sharemilking contract starting 1st June 2024 • Farm less than 20 minutes to Cambridge or Morrinsville, with good schooling options • 135ha platform, 60 paddocks, easy rolling contour and some medium hill • Milking 370 cows, 34 ASHB dairy with auto cup removers and in-shed meal feeding • Last three seasons average 132,000kg MS with 6ha fodder beet & 230t meal • Renovated three-bedroom character home with sleep-out

37

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

SEE TradeME #2251190054 Ph JC: 021 441 180 E: frigidair@xtra.co.nz When only the best will do!

GIBB-GRO GROWTH PROMOTANT PROMOTES QUICK PASTURE growth. Only $6.50+gst per hectare delivered. 0508-GIBBGRO [0508 442 247] www. gibbgro.co.nz. “The Proven One.”

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

LEASE LAND WANTED DAIRY OR GRAZING FARM wanted. Open to leasing, equity, share farming or developing land in partnership.

Rangitīkei, Manawatū or HB areas.

Phone Michael 027 223 6156.

LIVESTOCK FOR SALE

electro-tek@xtra.co.nz Phone: 06 357 2454

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Buy $200 + grab a FREE 2pr Xmas socks $50 Worth

www.thesocklady.co.nz

FORESTRY WANTED

NATIVE FOREST FOR MILLING also Macrocarpa and Red Gum, New Zealand wide. We can arrange permits and plans.

Also after milled timber to purchase. NEW ZEALAND NATIVE TIMBER SUPPLIERS (WGTN) LIMITED 027 688 2954 Richard.

WORD ONLY ADVERTISING. Phone 0800 85 25 80.

GOATS WANTED FERAL GOATS WANTED. Pick-up within 24 hours.

Prices based on works schedule. Phone Bill and Vicky Le Feuvre 07 893 8916 / 027 363 2932.

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.

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 WILTSHIRES-ARVIDSON. Open Day 27.11.23, 2-5pm Auction 28.11.23 11am 15 Oruanui Road, Taupo Saleyards. Phone David 027 277 1556.

WILTSHIRE 2th RAMS. See facebook for details Whitehead Wiltshires. Phone 027 449 2923. mswhitehead@xtra.co.nz

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

STANDING GRASS and/or baleage available. Phone 027 223 6156.

WORK WANTED

ZON BIRDSCARER

FOR SALE

PUMPS

Check out Poll Dorset NZ on Facebook nzsheep.co.nz/poll-dorset-breeders

GRAZIER AVAILABLE FROM start of January on private contract Looking for around 70-80 weaners on 18-month contract.

Tauranga/Katikati area.

Phone 027 632 6223.

Advertise with us Last issue for 2023 December 18 First issue for 2024 January 15 Contact your partnership manager for deadlines Office close dates December 19 to January 7

LK0117128©

Marketplace

38 Livestock

38

Livestock

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

Feilding Saleyards Comprising:

Mataro Wiltshire’s

• 23 SIL Recorded Purebred Wiltshire Rams

HIGH INDEXING JERSEY & JERSEY Enquiries to: CROSS HERD Simon Smith 0274 440 733 Tama Cahill 0272 874 010 Callum Stewart 0272 802 688

BW 143/50 PW 161/67 RA 100% (in top 10 All Breeds forSaleyard NZ ) NZ’s Virtual

have been breeding for eczema tolerance since 1989.

Wet Dry Young Ewes

Ramguard testing at 0.4

Phone Ross Dyer 0274 333 381 info@dyerlivestock.co.nz www.dyerlivestock.co.nz

On the eczema prone hills of Taranaki these Rams are breed tough and ready for any climate.

Many cows contracted to LIC for 2011 matings Helping 6.5 grow theweeks country Due to calve from 16-7-12, 201 Drake Road, Purua, Whangarei AB Jersey and Kiwi cross • Estimated to be 420 Forcows Saleafter non Monday 27th November older cows & 5% rejection 2023, 1pm start pregnant, culls, • Crossbred in calf heifers (48), very well grown, • Production last season 347kgs ms/cow, average BW 304, PW 316, G3 profiled, running with 49 One Shear Poll Dorset Rams recorded on Jersey Cross bulls 8/10/23, 1/5/24 1000kgs ms/ha, rolling to delivery steeper • Jersey heifer calves (60), Average BWor 310,maize PW 300, 5 One Shear Poll Dorset Cross Rams contoured farm, no meal, palm kernel all G3 profiled, delivery Dec/Jan, from very good herd All Rams Ovine Brucellosis Accredited fed. milked OAD All Rams Eye Muscle Scanned • Young replacement stock • Jersey cows (100),also highestavailable BW and PW cows from

For more information contact: Curtis Lockley 022 412 0660, 06 752 3084

• Held on the property of Alex & Delwyn Clements•

All Manu Rams Performance Recorded (SIL)

very nice large Northland herd, Average BW 298, PW 323, due to calve from early July 24, tally subject Outstanding genetics & potential to be one of to pd, delivery from end of May 2024

Contact: the countries leading suppliers of Genetics to Alex Clements 09 433 5871 the dairy industry for years to come. Full details aadjclements@gmail.com

Enquiries to the sole marketing agents: Enquiries to: Brian Robinson Brian Robinson Phone BRLL 0272 410 051 PH: 0272 410051b.robinson1@xtra.co.nz or 07 8583132

LK0117322©

Auctioneers: PGG Wrightson & Carrfields

Wanted

• 12 - 15 Autumn calving young recorded Jersey cows

SOUTHDOWNS

Building Better Bloodlines Piquet Hill Rams are: • Moderately framed and structurally sound • Extremely hardy • Prolific and vigorous • FE tolerant • Worm resistant • DNA profiled and parent verified Maternal composite (FE testing @ 6.7) Shedding composite (FE testing @ 4.0) Romney (FE testing @ 7.2) Blackface terminal composite Enquiries and viewings welcome Will Jackson 027 739 9939 william@piquethillfarms.co.nz www.piquethillfarms.co.nz

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

A Financing Solution For Your Farm www.rdlfinance.co.nz

4 Carcase uniformity www.southdownsheep.org.nz LK0117000©

For more info visit www.bidr.co.nz

available.

1YR Exotic & Beef Bred Heifers 250-320kg 2YR Ang & Ang X Steers 450-550kg 1YR Frsn Bulls 300-380kg 1YR Hereford Bulls 330-400kg 2YR Beef Bred Bulls 460-540kg

Friday 24th November, 12pm

LK0117296©

35th Annual Ram Sale A/C AA & DJ Clements

STOCK REQUIRED

WAITUI WILTSHIRE 2023 RAM SALE

LK0117035©

MANU POLL DORSET

sale | bidr.co.nz

Combined onfarm/

PGW New Zealand Hind/Stag/Wapiti Bull Sales Itinerary December 2023 Sales

January 2024 Sales

WEDNESDAY 6TH 11am Fairlight Station Northern Southland

SUNDAY 7TH 1pm Peel Forest Est. Peel Forest 4.30pm Deer Genetics NZ Geraldine

MONDAY 11TH 1pm Peel Forest Est. Peel Forest 1pm

Forester Genetics PGG Wrightson

FRIDAY 15TH 1.30pm Forest Road Deer Farm Hawkes Bay PGG Wrightson

WEDNESDAY 10TH 12.00pm Netherdale Deer Balfour THURSDAY 11TH 12.30pm Arawata Deer Pinebush 5.30pm Altrive Red Deer Riversdale

MONDAY 8TH 10.30am Raincliff Station Wapiti Raincliff 2.30pm Edendale Deer Mt Somers 6.30pm

FRIDAY 12TH 2pm Wilkins Farming Ltd. Athol

Rothesay Deer Methven

TUESDAY 9TH 2.30pm Black Forest Deer Park Outram (in conjunction with Puketapu Park) Greg/James Oliver

MONDAY 15TH 1pm Littlebourne Wapiti Browns 3.30pm Tikana Wapiti Browns TUESDAY 16TH 1pm Clachanburn Elk Ranfurly

PGG Wrightson Deer Specialist Team Ron Schroeder North Canterbury.

Marlborough-West Coast 027 432 1299

Murray Coutts Mid & South Canterbury 027 403 9377

John Williams Otago 027 241 4179

Ben Beadle Southland 027 728 1052

Luke Thompson North Canterbury.

Marlborough-West Coast 027 308 3426

John Duffy South Island Auctioneer 027 240 3841

Steve Annan North Island 027 215 6671

39

Livestock

39

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

NZ’s Top 200 FE Rams for Wiltshires

SALE TALK I’ve never owned a toilet brush. All my friends who come over have gone to the bathroom and come out asking about owning a toilet brush. I’m just baffled why people use and care about toilet brushes.

R1 bulls 200kg to 380kg R2 bulls 380kg to 680kg R2 Steers 380kg to 650kg R1 Angus and Angus Hereford X steers 220kg to 350kg Larger lines of R1 & R2 store cattle.

Cull cows. Prime cattle and bulls.

“I don’t get why everyone likes to use toilet brushes, I’m going back to toilet paper.”

SOUTH ISLAND WIDE Contact Colin 027 285 5780

Arvidson Wiltshires – arvidsonz@gmail.com • 09 296 0597 On Farm Sales - Wellsford, Bombay, Matamata. David 027 277 1556 Cam Heggie Mobile 027 501 8182

ATHLONE STATION

Genetic Trends

GE Analysis #40701 28/7/2023

5th Annual Ram Sale Previously Pareora Downs

LK0117064©

Cents

¼ Beltex ¾ Suftex 80 2th Rams Friday 1st December Viewing from 1pm, Auction 2.30pm 330 Wilfred Road, Albury or live on

Rams selected on hind quarters, eye muscle and high yielding traits Grant Black 027 547 7616 Jonty Hyslop (PGW) 027 595 6450

560 520 480 440 400 360 320 280 240 200 168 120 80 40 0 -40

for all Flocks Analysis Flocks: 1, 2, 7, 8 + 1409 others

SIL Terminal Sire Meat Yield

TS Flks Avg Rpt Flks Avg

Averge of all Terminal flocks Average of all Charollais flocks

Charollais rams simply the best better than all the rest

2010

2012

2014

2016

2018

2020

Charollais Sheep Genetics NZ

0109332

GLENGARRY POLL DORSET 130.71x180

57TH ANNUAL SALE Glengarry Poll Dorset Rams 2021

Monday, December 4th, 2023 – 1pm Feilding Saleyards, Manchester Street, Feilding Peter & Caroline Foss 495 Potaka Road, Aria (07) 8777 881 • pcfossy@xtra.co.nz

Why you should buy a Glengarry ram: • 47 years performance recording • Major emphasis on growth, survival and muscling • All sires DNA tested for footrot and muscling genes • No. 1 ranked Terminal Sire 2004, 2005, 2009, 2010 & 2017 (SIL ACE list) • 400 stud ewes means only the best rams are sold • Six rams in Top 20 2022 SIL Terminal Lamb Growth • 1st Ranked Ram 2020/21 SIL Terminal Sire Lamb Growth

SALE DAY THURSDAY 23RD NOVEMBER, 2PM ON FARM AT 495 POTAKA RD, ARIA

Live streamed on

For ram and semen enquiries contact Ross & Ben Pratt today: Ross 06 323 3827 or Ben 027 2356 577

✓ No shearing ✓ No dipping

✓ SIL Recorded ✓ FE dosing

✓ No dagging

✓ Live streamed sale

ON OFFER

60

Full Shed 2T Wiltshire Rams

Callum Stewart 0272 802 688 Maurice Stewart 0272 469 255 Simon Smith 027 444 0733

LK0117201©

IN CONJUNCTION WITH

Waterfields Wiltshires Anna Martyn • 021 247 2278 • akmartyn@yahoo.com.au

560 520 480 440 400 360 320 280 240 200 168 120 80 40 0 -40

2022

Contact Nigel 021 1407827

110 Rams up for Auction

LK0114635©

She came out fuming, disgusted and complained about the toilet brush. I finally snapped.

• First (1995) to performance select on Animalplan/SIL • First (2006) to Ramguard™ Facial Eczema Test, currently 0.54 • First (2012) to Carla™ antibody parasite test • Hoof Score (2016) every year, every toe, every hogget ram and ewe, scored in a roll over crate

STOCK REQUIRED

LK0116536©

After a week of using a toilet brush all my friends who come over still ask if I used a toilet brush. None of them believed that I used a toilet brush. Thankfully the following weekend my date agreed to another dinner at my place. At the end she clearly wanted to use the bathroom again, so I went first and made sure to use the toilet brush. There would be no mistake that I had used the toilet brush, I even left it in plain sight.

Open Day 27th November 2-5pm Auction (80 rams) 28th November 11am Taupo Saleyards, 15 Oruanui Road

LK0117103©

One day I brought my date over for dinner and at the end of the night after she went to the bathroom she stormed out complaining about the lack of a toilet brush. I thought I was being insensitive about her needs so I finally reluctantly bought a toilet brush.

Leading the development of Shedding Sheep in NZ

40

Livestock

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

RAM BUYERS

SALE 110 ROMNEY, DORSET DOWN, DORBELL & BORDER LEICESTER RAMS

Corriedale English Leicester Border Leicester Romney Texel Dorper

LK0117125©

For more information, contact our Auctioneer Representatives:

VIEWING FROM 11.30PM SALE STARTING AT 1.30PM 0274 443 312 0273 357 790 0273 684 778

Ram Sale

WAIRARAPA TEXEL DEVELOPMENTS

Superior Genetics for Greater Profitability

Glenrobin Stud

Tried, tested, proven and matched perfectly to New Zealand conditions for efficient, cost effective lamb production.

Open Day:

Beltex X Two Tooth Ram sale

Friday 24 Nov – 10am-3pm

On Farm Auction: Friday 15 Dec – 12 midday Inspection from 10am

SALE DAY

Monday 27 November 2023 AUCTION at Gore Showgrounds Viewing from 10am Sale starts 11:30am

(hill-bred blackface)

- K. x Romney - Kiki South worm-resistant Romneys

Also on

– hybrid livestreamed auction

LK0108979©

(high-performance composite)

- Perendale x Texel x Romney - Texel x Romney - Terminator

Photos & Catalogue available on Bidr or below contacts

• 12 Beltex X Suffolk Two Tooth Rams

WAIRARAPA TEXEL DEVELOPMENTS THE TERMINATOR -PACKING MEAT

With 100 plus Texel 2th rams and 80 plus Suftex 2th rams All fully SIL recorded for sale 2023 For Sale – 300 Maternal and Terminal Rams proven to increase growth rate and meat yield of export lambs.

All Rams are showing the unique double muscling and the higher yielding density characteristics of the Beltex breed.

LK0117198©

Maternals Texel Wharetoa Maternal

Terminals Meatmaker Wharetoa Terminal

Garth Shaw: 027 273 7037 Warwick Howie (PGGW): 027 437 5276 e: wharetoa@farmside.co.nz

www.wharetoagenetics.co.nz

JW0116951©

• 7 3/4 Beltex X Two Tooth Rams

Michael Robinson 027 210 5977 Brent Robinson 027 206 4958 Callum McDonald – PGGW 027 433 6443

Texel Flock No 10 SIL No. 2960 Suftex Flock SIL No 5044

“Meating the Market”

Sired by top pure Beltex Rams • 8 Beltex X Poll Dorset Two Tooth Rams

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

PGG Wrightson Ltd, Simon Eddington, 027 590 8612 Rural Livestock Ltd, Anthony Cox, 027 208 3071 Hazlett Ltd, Callum Dunnett, 027 462 0126

Call Andrea 027 602 4925

1629 MITCHAM ROAD, ASHBURTON

- Romney - Romdale - K. Maternal

Suffolk Shropshire South Suffolk Poll Dorset Southdown Dorset Down

Advertise with us

WEDNESDAY 29TH NOVEMBER

350 Rams

Quality Rams & Ewes for sale

40+ Stud and Commercial SUFFOLK RAMS for sale, Canterbury A&P Ram Sale, Friday 1st December

Meaty, early maturing and easy identifiable rams.

Thursday 30th November 12:30pm On-farm at Meadowslea Mt Cook Road, Fairlie.

12.30PM Friday 1st December 2023 (Viewing from 9am) Canterbury Agricultural Park 102 Curletts Road, Christchurch

See ewe Noon Friday, 1st December at THE RAM SALE

ANNUAL ON-FARM

GUY CAMERON ANDREW

ELITE RAM & EWE SALE

Plus – 200+ ram hoggets available for 2024 ewe hogget mating including 50+ Cheviot/Texel ram hoggets.

Inspection and enquiry are always welcome, or visit our Facebook page wairarapa texel development.

Andy 027 238 4961 halfy490@gmail.com Stewart 06 372 2770 texels4u@gmail.com

LK0117192©

40

41

Livestock ADELONG

TOTARA VALLEY LAMB SALES

19TH ANNUAL ON FARM RAM SALE

TUE 28TH NOVEMBER - 12 NOON

Glenelg Partnership - RA & PH Giles 29 Moa Pass Road, Totara Valley

Neville & Dianne Greenwood, Ellesmere Wednesday 6th December - 2pm start Viewing from 12pm

>2000 Suftex & Beltex X Lambs - Undrafted >1100 Romney/Texel Male Lambs -Undrafted >500 Romney/Texel Ewe Lambs >500 Romney/Texel Annual Draft Ewes

> 110 Poll Dorset 1 shr Rams 40 of the above with foot score 1.1 to 1.3 > 30 Suffolk, Texel, Poll Dorset X 1 shr Rams Catalogue available via contact details below or on the Hazlett website: www.hazlett.nz/whats-on

The above lambs are predominantly Hemingford bred & we as auctioneers can fully recommend them to all intendng purchasers. They will be sold in lines to suit. All lambs are tailed, scratched, B12 and drenched prior to sale. Farm Assured and ABF.

Further enquiries: Callum Dunnett 027 462 0126

Sale signposted from the Pleasant Point Hotel.

Cellphone coverage is limited.

Use pure genetics from a registered sheep breeder/member to gain a hybrid

Further Enquiries: Richard Giles (Vendor) 021 550 171 Wayne Andrews (Hazlett) 027 484 8232

www.nzsheep.co.nz

hazlett.nz

>2600 Suffolk X M/S Lambs >300 Romney Wether Lambs >400 Annual Draft Ewes These lambs can be thoroughly recommended for their shifting ability. They will be drafted by sex into suitable lines for purchasers. The lambs have been drenched & scratched and are Farm Assured and ABF. Sale signposted from Totara Valley Hall Corner.

1200

1600

1000

1400

800 600 400 200

800 CENTS

0

600

-200

400

-400

200

-600

0

-800

-200

-1000 95 19

-400 -600

Annabel & Roy Tripp/Vernonese Darfield 03 318 6939 John & Melissa Jebson Darfield 03 318 3796 Blair Gallagher Ashburton 03 303 9819 Philip Oldfield Geraldine 03 693 9877 Robert Gardyne Oturehua 03 444 5032 Pip Wilson Gore 027 207 2882 Hayden & Kate Slee Te Anau 03 249 9097 Andrew & Karen Mackie Otautau 021 210 3381

07 09 20 20 YEAR

11 13 15 20 Philip 20 Brandon 20

17

20

19

07

09

20

Otorohanga 07 873 6313

John Spellman Te Awamutu 07 870 1433 7 13 & Linda 15 Langlands 19 Neil 01 1 1 2 2 2 20 20 20 20Taumarunui 20 20 072 896 8660 AWAROA - Brandon, Philip & Audrey – Otorohanga. P: 07 873 6313

NORTH 7 9 ISLAND 1 3 5 99 99 00 00 00

-1000 95 19

21

20

11

21

20

YEAR

RUA PEKA PEKA - Bryant, Maree – Urenui. P: 06 752 3701Sean Brosnahan

NORTH ISLAND GREEN ACRES - Jury, Chris – Waitara. P: 06 754 6672 LONGSPUR - Frank, Wayne – Waitara. P: 06 754 4311

AWAROA  RAUPUHA

Gisborne 021 997 519 Otoi Farming Co Wairoa 06 838 7398

AWAROA



Robyn Harding LONGSPUR - Frank, Wayne – Waitara. P: 06 754 4311 P: 027 355 – Mahoneui.

2927 021 133 7533 RAUPUHA Woodville RUA PEKA PEKA GREENWAIOTANE ACRES - Jury, Chris – Waitara.

P: 06 754 6672 - Brosnahan, Sean – Ohope. P: 06 864 4468 John & Carey Henricksen



AWAPIKO





KINNEAR

RANGIATEA

South Island Ram Fair – Gore 16 January 2024 OLDENDALE ST HELENS + HINERUA KLIFDEN FELDWICK

MONTANA DIAMOND PEAK KINNEAR

OTOI



WAIOTANE

  

LONGVIEW

 

KERRYDALE

 

OTOI HAUTERE LONGVIEW OTAPAWA 

TE AWAITI

KERRYDALE

   

17 JANUARY 2023

Gore South Island Ram Sale

10:30 AM, Gore Showgrounds NZ MATERNALHAUTERE WORTH WITH MEAT (MW+M)

MEAT + SURVIVAL + GROWTH = $$$

Gore South Island Ram Sale

BLUFF FARM - Evans, Ivan & Julie – Oxford. P: 03 312 1585

DOLOMITE GRASSLANDS

SNOWDON



DOLOMITE - Elliott, Ken – Akaroa. P: 021 221 4185 10:30 AM, Gore Showgrounds

Diamond Peak Gore 03 208 1030 MT GUARDIAN Te Kuiti North Island Ram Sale RANGIATEA Warren Ayers 12 PM, Te Kuiti Saleyards Wyndham 027 226 4290 OLDENDALE BLUFF FARM Dave McKelvie Wyndham 027 249 6905

MONTANA



AWAPIKO

TE AWAITI WANGAPEKA - de Vos, Cor & Belia

SNOWDON

BENMORE





17–JANUARY 2023 MT GUARDIAN - Anderson, Tim, Sue & Edward Cheviot. P:03 319 2730

Christie Wilson Partnership

KLIFDEN



WAIOTANE

OTAPAWA SOUTH ISLAND

Mitchell Hillcrest

Clinton 03 415 7187 BLUFF FARM

BENMORE Gore 03 208 1789 WANGAPEKA

14 NOVEMBER 2022



HERANGI



 Pongaroa 06 374 3888 AWAPIKO - Langlands, NeilHarding & Linda––Woodville Taumarunui.

07133 8967533 8660 KERRYDALE - Robyn – P: P: 021 GREEN ACRES  Douglas & Dara Robbie GLENOCHY MacFarlane, Whangamamona.

P: 06 762 5880 OTOI -- Brickell, Ian &James Bobbie&–Rochelle Wairoa. P:– 06 838 7398 Eketahuna 027 919 7150  GLENOCHY RAUPUHA Mahoneui.

P: 027  LONGVIEW - Maxwell, Graeme– & Sue – Tutira.

P: 06355 8392927 7412 Te Awaiti Station RUA PEKA PEKA Martinborough 022 607 5968  WAIOTANE - Brosnahan, SeanRob – Ohope.

P: 06– 864 4468 THE HEIGHTS - Gaskin, & Heather Levin.

P: 027 481 6924 LONGSPUR  HAUTERE - Henricksen, & Carey– –P:Pongaroa.

P: 06 374 3888 KERRYDALE - Robyn Harding John – Woodville 021 133 7533 GREEN ACRES  Ken Elliott D’Ath, Warren – Palmerston North. P: 06 354 8951 OTOI - KAREREVALE Brickell, Ian &- Bobbie – Wairoa.

P: 06 838 7398 KAREREVALE Akaroa 021 221 4185 GLENOCHY OTAPAWA - Robbie, Douglas & Dara – Eketahuna.

06 376 7765 Farms LONGVIEW - Maxwell, Graeme & Sue – Tutira.

P: 06 839P:7412 Newhaven ASHBY  Oamaru 03 432 4154  HERANGI - Spellman, – Te Awamutu.

1433 THE HEIGHTS THE HEIGHTS - Gaskin, Rob John & Heather – Levin. P: P: 07 027870 481 6924  Richard (late) & Kerry France LONGSPUR TE AWAITI Wakelin, Sarah – Martinborough.

P: 022 607 5968 HAUTERE - Henricksen, John & Carey – Pongaroa. P: 06 374 3888 Tapanui 03 204 8339 ASHBY -- Timms, P: 06 362 7829 Mike McElrea & Fraser Darling KAREREVALE D’Ath, Gilbert Warren––Shannon.

Palmerston North.

P: 06 354 8951 KAREREVALE Tapanui OTAPAWA - Robbie, Douglas & Dara – Eketahuna. P: 06 376 7765 027 424 9376 or 021 701 229 WANGAPEKA ASHBY NOVEMBER 2022 HERANGI14 - Spellman, John – Te Awamutu. P: 07 870 1433 Scott & Kjersti Walker THE HEIGHTS Tapanui 027 630 5301 MT GUARDIAN Te -Kuiti NorthSarah Island–Ram Sale TE AWAITI Wakelin, Martinborough.

P: 022 607 5968

12 PM, Te Kuiti Saleyards ASHBY - Timms, Gilbert – Shannon. P: 06 362 7829



 DP Flks Avg  Perendale NZ Flocks



RAUPUHA



HERANGI  NZ Maternal Worth with Wool and Meat

 

AWAROA - Brandon, Philip & Audrey – Otorohanga. P: 07 873 6313 Graeme AWAPIKO - Langlands, Neil & Linda – Taumarunui. P: 07 896 8660& Sue Maxwell Tutira 06 839 7412 RUA PEKA PEKA - Bryant, Maree – Urenui. P: 06 752 3701 GLENOCHY - MacFarlane, James & Rochelle – Whangamamona. P: 06 762 5880







 

Ivan & Julie Evans Oxford 03 312 1585 Warwick James Coalgate 03 318 2352

05

20

 

Tim, Sue & Edward Anderson Cheviot 03 319 2730

03

20

 

Cor & Bella de Vos Wakefield 03 522 4280

01

20

 

Warren D‘Ath Palmerston North 06 354 8951 Gilbert Timms Shannon 06 362 7829

99

19



James McFarlane Stratford 06 762 5880

97

19

PERENDALE RAMS Leading way superiorthe Maternal Worth with Meat. superior Maternal Worth with Meat.

 

Wayne Frank Waitara 06 754 6672

+ GROWTH PERENDALE RAMS = $$$ Leading the way

CENTS

1800

-800

MEAT + SURVIVAL Enquiries to: Johnny Duncan 027 = 327 2372 + GROWTH $$$ MEAT + SURVIVAL or email: JDuncan.Craigneuk@xtra.co.nz

1400

LK0117290©

1600

2000

NEWHAVEN HAZELDALE

DOLOMITE GOWAN BRAES AVALONGRASSLANDS HILLCREST

NEWHAVEN

HAZELDALE CALDERKIN

SOUTH ISLAND GRASSLANDS - Jebson, John & Melissa

MT GUARDIAN - Anderson, Tim, Sue & Edward – Cheviot.

RANGIATEA - Gallagher, Blair – Ashburton.

P: 03 303 9819 P:03 319 2730 WANGAPEKA - de Vos, Cor &– Coalgate.

Belia BENMORE - James, Warrick P: 03 318 2352 DOLOMITE - Elliott, Ken – Akaroa.

P: 021 221 4185 OLDENDALE – Geraldine.

P: 03 693 9877 Follow on Facebook & 312 Instagram BLUFF FARM - Tripp/Veronese, Evans,us Ivan & Julie – Oxford.

P: 03 1585 SNOWDON Annabel & Roy

E: perendalenz@xtra.co.nz GRASSLANDS Jebson,Richard John &&Melissa HAZELDALE -- France, Kerry – Tapanui. P:03 204 8339 KLIFDEN - Gardyne, Robert P: 021 144 9721 RANGIATEA - Gallagher, Blair– –Oturehua.

Ashburton.

P: 03 303 9819 GOWAN BRAES - McElrea, – Tapanui.

P: 318 027 242 BENMORE - James, Warrick Mike – Coalgate.

P: 03 23529376

www.perendalenz.com

NEWHAVEN - Smith, Blair & Jane – Oamaru.

4329877 4154 OLDENDALE – Geraldine.

P:P:0303693 HILLCREST--Tripp/Veronese, Mitchell, R&R – Clinton.

P: & 03Roy 415 7187 SNOWDON Annabel

AVALON - Walker, Scott – Tapanui.

P: 027 630 5301P:03 204 8339 HAZELDALE - France, Richard & Kerry – Tapanui.

LK0116879©

1800

2200

Further Enquiries: Tim Allan (Vendor) 027 251 9011 Rob Harvey (PGGW) 021 331 519 Joe Higgins (PGGW) 027 431 4041

 

2000

 

2200

 

Further enquiries: Callum Dunnett (Hazlett) 027 462 0126 Jon Waghorn (Hazlett) 027 462 0121 Anthony Cox (RLL) 027 208 3071 Robbie Reid (RLL) 027 473 0868

80 Maternal Halfbred and Quarterbred Rams Merino Ram/Romney Ewe MATERNAL MILK NZ • WOOL • MEAT WORTH WITH MEAT (MW+M) Bred to fit the Smartwool Contract 19NZ to 23.5 micron MATERNAL WORTH WITH MEAT (MW+M) Grown in the harsh Maniototo climate

 

Catalogue available via contact details below or at the following websites: www.thegums.nz www.hazlett.nz/whats-on www.rurallivestock.co.nz/Auctions

 

> 50 Dorset Down Rams > 35 Southdown Dorset Down x Rams

1000

On offer 280 Rams Made up of 200 Terminal Rams • Dorset Down X lambs growing 500 to 600 grams a day from birth to weaning • South Dorset Rams for quick maturity • SIL Recorded and Studfax • Autumn Scan

Commencing approx 1pm at the completion of RA & PH Giles sale

 

A/c The Stevenson Family, Cheviot Thursday 7th December - 2pm start Viewing from 11am

Annual on Farm Sale Friday 12th January 2024

The Brothers Station Three Mile Bush Road, Pleasant Point

 

ON FARM RAM SALE

1200

CRAIGNEUK

hazlett.nz

 

THE GUMS

Russell & Mavis Proffit Mahoenui 027 355 2927 Maree Bryant Urenui 06 752 3701 Chris Jury Waitara 06 754 6672

41

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

42 Markets

Markets

Proudly sponsored by

Look beyond tough start for lamb prices You don’t have to go far to find a disgruntled sheep farmer, but it may help to remember that we are in the part of the pricing cycle that no one likes.

COMPETITION: There is no question that the higher concentration of Australian lamb on the export markets this year is having an impact on pricing, especially in this current economic environment.

Mel Croad

MARKETS

S

Lamb

HEEP farmers are well versed in what happens to lamb prices as the new season gets underway.

However, this year that usual downside is gathering speed before processing supplies even start to surge.

The key drivers of the current pricing situation are similar to a month ago, but the tone is decidedly weaker. Since the start of October, pricing downside has been prevalent in China – our largest market for lamb.

While New Zealand hasn’t been saturating the Chinese market this year, 52% of our lamb was shipped last month, as the market weakened – the highest for an October month since 2019. Some of that volume may have been an overhang of sales completed at better prices in September. But where the concern lies is if these volumes continue to increase, with no visible improvement in prices.

Typically, we can count on good in-market support anywhere between October and December as buying for Chinese New Year

ramps up, but it’s been deathly quiet on that front. Although there is still a window of opportunity for a short burst of buying, it’s not looking promising.

This stems from significant stocks in China and a lack of consumption to readily absorb them.

There has been plenty of discussion about the disruption Australia is causing to export returns. But the interesting feature of the Australian lamb export market is volumes are almost evenly distributed among key markets. In the past three months Australia has exported a total of 94,000 tonnes of lamb versus 60,000t from New Zealand.

Its four largest markets have each taken 20-23% of that total.

In comparison, New Zealand exports remain heavily weighted to China, which over the same period has taken 47% of our total lamb exports. The next largest share falls to the European

See what sold today Results from the saleyards, including per kilo prices for store lambs, delivered straight to your inbox.

* Prices are GST exclusive

Typically, we can count on good in-market support anywhere between October and December as buying for Chinese New Year ramps up, but it’s been deathly quiet on that front.

Union market at 15% and then a combination of our “other” markets that absorb 14%.

Beyond that and we are looking at market shares of below 10% to individual markets such as the United States, United Kingdom and Middle East.

It’s not surprising that market returns have unravelled hard and fast when our largest market is not performing to the level we have become accustomed to.

There is no question that the higher concentration of Australian lamb on the export markets

this year is having an impact on pricing, especially in this current economic environment. Average export values for Australian lamb plummeted in March, sliding below NZ’s levels.

Further pressure was felt by both markets from July, but NZ’s export values still managed to hold that advantage. However, if Australia continues to offer more for less, then ultimately NZ’s exports values will remain under pressure.

The last time lamb slaughter prices averaged below $7/kg in November was back in 2016. It’s easy to understand why you don’t have to go far to find a disgruntled sheep farmer. It’s an extremely disheartening position to be in at a time when on-farm costs have sky-rocketed. Worse still, most know farmgate prices still have some way to fall before the bottom is reached.

AgriHQ’s November Livestock Outlook does indicate the possibility of a sub-$6/kg price

occurring in early 2024. But if recent history has shown us anything, it’s that once below $6/kg, prices don’t stay there for long. It also means that buying opportunities will arise as inevitably store lamb values mirror slaughter prices.

In 10 out of the past 20 years, lamb slaughter prices have bottomed out in March before showing upside. That still seems a long way off but, taking a positive approach, it does indicate that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

We are currently in the part of the pricing cycle that no one likes.

Clearly work needs to happen to re-establish our position as a price leader – this is a tough ask in this current pricing environment, but is it out of the question? More importantly, we need to look beyond the immediate market downfall and be ready to capture those opportunities when they do return.

LIVESTOCK EYE REPORTS Subscribe from only $35* per month agrihq.co.nz/livestock-reports

Markets

43

43

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

Weekly saleyards Some South Island sales had a bit of a shuffle around in the past week to accommodate Canterbury Show week. The Canterbury Park sale wasn’t held as it made room for show stock, and Coalgate was held on Tuesday.

Prime cattle prices have been variable dependent on space availability in regions, though decreasing schedule prices did impact some classes as well.

Heavier steers on both islands have produced solid results in the past week as gaps appear, and most beef and dairybeef over 550kg have traded at $3.00-$3.15/kg.

Wellsford | November 13 | 934 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

2-year Hereford-Friesian heifers, 397-426kg

2.66-2.87

Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 270-376kg

2.95-3.14

Yearling traditional bulls, 292-321kg

3.77-3.84

Yearling Friesian bulls, 294-301kg

3.13-3.18

Yearling traditional heifers, 335-273kg

2.94-3.00

Yearling Hereford-Friesian heifers, 276-315kg

2.96-3.09

Prime Hereford-Friesian heifers, 474-600kg

2.85-2.91

Pukekohe | November 11

$/kg or $/hd

Frankton | November 9 | 1312 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

Aut-born weaner dairy-beef bulls, 140-185kg

580-760

Aut-born weaner dairy-beef heifers, 143-192kg

565-690

Weaner Hereford-Friesian bulls, 99-133kg

635-740

Weaner Friesian bulls, 115-145kg

560-630

Weaner Friesian bulls, 99-114kg

490-535

Weaner Friesian-cross bulls, 99-134kg

495-580

Weaner crossbred bulls, 77-110kg

190-305 500-620

Yearling steers

2.81-3.34

Weaner Hereford-Friesian heifers, 101-133kg

Yearling heifers

2.73-3.27

Frankton | November 14 | 745 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

Aut-born weaner steers

680-710

2-year Hereford-Jersey steers, 427-464kg

2.79-2.86

Aut-born weaner heifers

500-640

2-year Hereford-Friesian steers, 437-457kg

3.02-3.06

Prime steers

2.80-2.99

2-year dairy-beef heifers, 395-430kg

2.86-2.91

Prime heifers

2.71-2.91

Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 312-382kg

3.05-3.11

Store ewes, all

32-110

Yearling traditional bulls, 353-363kg

3.74-3.83

Store hoggets, all

70-150

Store lambs, all

20-129

Yearling beef-cross heifers, 268-271kg

2.57-2.58

Yearling Hereford-Friesian heifers, 299-332kg

2.92-2.99

Tuakau | November 9 | 710 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

Prime Angus-Hereford steers, 600-626kg

3.06

2.91-3.11

Prime Hereford-Friesian heifers, 479-485kg

2.86-2.87

2-year dairy-beef heifers, 391-459kg

2.77-2.91

Frankton | November 15 | 645 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 304-360kg

3.07-3.29

2-year beef-cross heifers, 397-470kg

2.66

Yearling Hereford-Friesian heifers, 285-343kg

2.91-3.01

Yearling Angus-cross steers, 260-305kg

3.20-3.27

Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 255-333kg

3.20-3.29

Yearling Hereford heifers, 418-427kg

2.91-3.00

Yearling Charolais-Friesian heifers, 261-330kg

2.91-2.99

Prime Hereford-Friesian steers, 629-673kg

3.00-3.06

Prime Hereford-Friesian heifers, 480-513kg

2.92-2.98

Boner dairy cows, 443-507kg

1.87-1.96

3-year Hereford-Friesian steers, 500-585kg

3.00-3.04

2-year dairy-beef steers, 445-484kg

Tuakau | November 10 | 1500 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

Aut-born weaner Hereford-Friesian steers, 150-210kg

730-870

Aut-born weaner Charolais-Friesian steers, 188-215kg

890-940

Aut-born weaner Angus-Friesian steers, 146-218kg

700-870

Aut-born weaner Friesian-cross bulls, 100-140kg

480-560

Aut-born weaner Hereford-Friesian heifers, 140-185kg

620-705

Aut-born weaner Charolais-Friesian heifers, 142-192kg

640-745

Rangiuru | November 14 | 435 cattle, 33 sheep

$/kg or $/hd

Te Kuiti | November 9 | 534 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

2-year dairy-beef steers, 420-500kg

3.08-3.12

3-year dairy-beef steers, 542-705kg

2.95-3.10

Yearling Hereford-Jersey steers, 290-300kg

840-900

2-year Hereford-Friesian steers, 433-476kg

3.25-3.33

Yearling Hereford-Friesian heifers, 269-327kg

2.86-3.06

2-year dairy-beef steers, 403-600kg

2.98-3.17

Prime dairy-beef steers, 515-573kg

2.81-2.88

2-year Angus heifers, 372-415kg

2.94-3.01

2-year Hereford-Friesian heifers, 366-408kg

2.77-2.91

Yearling Angus, Charolais steers, 308-339kg

3.42-3.54

Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 326-384kg

1160-1270

Yearling Hereford-Friesian heifers, 302-318kg

3.21-3.25

Aut-born weaner Charolias-dairy bulls, 172-204kg

815-880

Prime ewes, all

50-80

Rangiuru | November 15 | 491 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

Weaner Hereford-Friesian bulls, 94-125kg

535-625

Weaner Friesian bulls, 100-122kg

420-500

Weaner Friesian bulls, 88-99kg

375-450

Weaner dairy-beef heifers, 108-117kg

440-485

44

44

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

Matawhero | November 10 | 1149 sheep Store ewes, medium

$/kg or $/hd 61

Stortford Lodge | November 15 | 895 cattle, 5311 sheep

Markets $/kg or $/hd

2-year beef, dairy-beef steers, 568-605kg

2.97-3.13

2-year Hereford-Friesian heifers, 445-592kg

2.87-2.88

Yearling Charolais steers, 335-400kg

3.39-3.43

Yearling Hereford-dairy steers, 277-417kg

875-1330

Yearling Hereford bulls, 423-484kg

1540-1680

Yearling South Devon bulls, 384-496kg

3.29-3.44

Yearling Angus heifers, 311-360kg

3.15-3.16

Store ram lambs, medium to good

62-76.50

Store ewe lambs, small to medium

47-60

Store mixed-sex lambs, medium to good

61-70

Store mixed-sex lambs, light

22-33

Prime ewes, good

72-80

Prime hoggets, good

100-127.50

Prime lambs, medium to good

102-120

Taupo | November 9 | 533 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

Yearling Angus-Hereford heifers, 224-307kg

730-995

2-year Hereford-Friesian steers, 486-527kg

3.15-3.22

Mixed-age ewes & lambs, medium to good

42-55.50

2-year Angus-dairy steers, 437-503kg

2.86-2.89

Store whiteface hoggets, heavy

130-145

Yearling traditional steers, 274-332kg

3.96-4.04

Store terminal-cross mixed-sex lambs, good to heavy

71.50-128

Yearling Simmental-cross heifers, 290-345kg

3.29-3.36

Store terminal-cross mixed-sex lambs, small to medium

51-75

Yearling beef-cross heifers, 220-369kg

2.96-3.09

Yearling Hereford-Friesian heifers, tops, 301-394kg

3.21-3.35

Yearling Hereford-Friesian heifers, second cuts, 301-394kg

2.96-3.12

Aut-born weaner dairy-beef heifers, 144-156kg

500-550

Taranaki | November 15 | 352 cattle 2-year dairy-beef steers, 441-572kg

$/kg or $/hd 3.02-3.24

2-year Hereford-Friesian heifers, one line, 485kg

2.47

Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 261-357kg

3.21-3.47

Yearling dairy-beef steers, 320kg average

3.08

Yearling Friesian bulls, 218-265kg

3.25-3.35

Yearling Hereford-Friesian heifers, most, 265-356kg

2.94-3.00

Prime Hereford-Friesian steers, 692-756kg

3.10-3.15

Boner Friesian cows, 473-573kg

1.78-1.79

Stortford Lodge | November 13 | 1927 sheep

$/kg or $/hd

Store Romney cryptorchid lambs, small to good

39.50-87.50

Store Romney ewe lambs, small to medium

34-68.50

Dannevirke | November 9 | 1959 sheep

$/kg or $/hd

Store lambs, all

61-115

Prime ewes, all

46-74

Prime hoggets, all

44-143

Feilding | November 10 | 1525 cattle, 4166 sheep

$/kg or $/hd

3-year dairy-beef steers, 579-661kg

2.97-3.12

2-year Angus steers, 503-593kg

3.16-3.32

2-year Angus heifers, 408-443kg

2.97-3.15

Yearling traditional steers, 311-420kg

3.50-3.65

Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 322-404kg

3.31-3.50

Yearling Friesian bulls, 305-366kg

3.12-3.35

Yearling Angus heifers, 283-356kg

3.22-3.34

Mixed-age ewes & lambs, medium

45-55.50

Prime ewes, very heavy

140

Prime ewes, heavy

92-105

Prime ewes, medium

60-85

Prime mixed-sex hoggets, heavy

135-150

Store terminal-cross mixed-sex lambs, good

86-101

Prime lambs, heavy

145-157

Store terminal-cross mixed-sex lambs, good

96-108

Prime mixed-sex lambs, good

123-131

Store mixed-sex lambs, medium

59-80

Get ahead of the market Keep track of saleyard data, key market indicators and livestock news from across the country, with the only reports that have people onsite collecting data daily.

Subscribe from only $35 per month agrihq.co.nz/livestock-reports

45

Markets

45

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 20, 2023

$/kg or $/hd

Temuka | November 13 | 369 cattle, 1358 sheep

$/kg or $/hd

Boner Friesian cows, 530-561kg

1.94-1.95

Prime Angus and Angus-Hereford cows, 490-678kg

2.04-2.14

Prime ewes, all

22-132

Prime Hereford-Friesian steers, 539-655kg

3.03-3.10

Prime mixed-sex hoggets, all

97-154

Boner Friesian cows, 459-635kg

1.93-2.15

Prime mixed-sex lambs, all

111-158

Store Merino wether hoggets, good

126.50

Store mixed-sex lambs, all

80-88

Prime ewes, most

60-90

Prime mixed-sex lambs and hoggets, most

125-150

Feilding | November 13 | 52 cattle, 2647 sheep

$/kg or $/hd

Rongotea | November 14 | 182 cattle Boner Friesian cows, 463-705kg

1.73-2.00

Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 274-349kg

3.14-3.32

Yearling Hereford-Friesian bulls, 261-338kg

910-990

Weaner Friesian bulls, 92-128kg

400-590

$/kg or $/hd

Coalgate | November 9 | 558 cattle, 1991 sheep Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 287-346kg

3.12-3.41

Yearling Hereford-Friesian heifers, 331-382kg

2.98-3.23

Prime dairy-beef steers, 600-665kg

3.00-3.04

Prime dairy-beef heifers, 499-590kg

2.88-3.02

Store terminal-cross mixed-sex lambs, heavy

111

Store terminal-cross mixed-sex lambs, medium

72-80

Prime ewes, heavy

119-137

Prime terminal-cross lambs, good

120-137

$/kg or $/hd

Coalgate | November 14 | 89 cattle, 766 sheep

Balclutha | November 15

$/kg or $/hd

Mixed-age ewes & lambs

69

Store ewes, all

50-100

2-tooth ewes, medium

70-80

Prime lambs, all

100-170

$/kg or $/hd

Charlton | November 9 Prime ewes, all

75-101

Prime lambs and hoggets, all

90-150

Lorneville | November 10 | 917 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

2-year dairy-beef heifers, 364-490kg

2.83-3.02

Yearling beef-cross steers, 251-279kg

920-960

Yearling dairy-beef, exotic-dairy steers, 327-432kg

1050-1285

Yearling dairy-beef, exotic-dairy steers, 266-321kg

910-990

Yearling Friesian steers, 291-375kg

2.87-3.07

Yearling Friesian bulls, 259-325kg

3.00-3.13

Yearling traditional heifers, 220-287kg

680-780

Yearling dairy-beef heifers, 281-350kg

800-1075 770-990

Prime beef steers, 543-605kg

3.10-3.22

Prime Hereford-Friesian heifers, 478-508kg

2.90-3.02

Store mixed-sex lambs, medium to good

83-95

Prime ewes, good

92-111

Prime hoggets, heavy

140-159

Yearling exotic-dairy heifers, 243-326kg

Prime lambs, good

112-131

Lorneville | November 14

$/kg or $/hd

Temuka | November 9 | 627 cattle

$/kg or $/hd

Prime cows, 500-550kg

2.00-2.10

2-year dairy-beef steers, 403-496kg

2.84-2.98

Mixed-age ewes & lambs

78-90

2-year Devon-Hereford bulls, 348-421kg

3.23-3.36

Store lambs, medium

100

2-year dairy-beef heifers, 428-475kg

2.92-2.96

Prime ewes, medium to heavy

56-104

Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 310-435kg

3.03-3.13

Prime hoggets

117-181

Yearling heifers, 244-275kg

740-790

Prime lambs

123-125

SEPTEMBER 2, 2022

LIVESTOCK OUTLOOK

LIVESTOCKEYE FEILDING STORE CATTLE

2-YEAR STEER

2-YEAR STEER

TRADITIONAL 540 - 555KG

HERE/FR 385 - 470KG

3.69

3.59

YEARLING STEER

YEARLING HEIFER

TRADITIONAL 315 - 330KG

M2 BULL -JUL

YEARLING BULL

TRADITIONAL 215 - 240KG

4.32

FRIESIAN 325 - 390KG

3.67

$/KG

6.05

3.62

P2 STEER - JUL

$/KG

6.15

M COW - JUL

$/KG

4.65

SOUTH ISLAND JULY 2022 KEY POINTS

➔ Export prices follow traditional trends ➔ Processing numbers head to winter levels ➔ Chinese demand for lamb softer

LAMB - JUL

NZD:USD

9.20

0.61

$/KG 20KGCW

VIEWPOINT

Spring market has sprung A strange glowing ball has been spotted in the Manawatu skies the past few days apparently it’s called “the sun” - which added more fuel to the flames that have powered the store cattle market since the start of August. Or maybe it was the official rolling of the calendar into spring that has awoken even more buyers.

Either way, there were plenty of punters having a shot at cattle this week.

Vendors were clearly feeling optimistic about their odds as the yarding shot up to the biggest in eight weeks. This was mostly due to a wave of yearlings coming out of the woodwork, who ended up being the main stars of the show. Not that the 2-year lines didn’t go well.

Despite their big numbers, there were few special entry consignments through the 2-year steers, but the market wasn’t affected by this.

Almost everything with traditional breeding was bought between $3.55/kg and $3.76/ kg, a subtle increase on a week ago. The less standard lines were where the main gains were made though, especially the 360-425kg dairybeef pens which paid essentially the same per kilo rate as above, while some light Hereford from the Wairarapa got up to $3.89/kg.

It would have been quiet on the 2-year heifers if it weren’t for two vendors. One from Blenheim sold two pens of 450kg traditional heifers for $3.58-$3.61/kg, while a southernTaranaki vendor sold a single, large line of 370kg Angus for $3.66/kg.

Few 2-year bulls were offered, but the 533kg Friesian were at least a good benchmark at $3.62/kg.

Demand for yearling cattle was strong from the beginning and never really slowed through the rest of the sale. Bidding was so competitive that it was rare for any buyer to take home more than two pens in each section.

For those wanting steers, anything with a bit of quality was out of reach unless they were willing to go above $4/kg. The obvious highlights were three 315-335kg traditional pens at the start, all going to different homes for $4.24-$4.37/kg. Four back-to-back lines of 252-307kg Hereford-Friesian followed too long afterwards, again each pen finding a different buyer at $4.04/kg to $4.34/kg.

Yearling bulls were out in force but that only seemed to attract even more buyers who added more onto last week’s money. Good quality throughout helped prices too. A dozen lines of Friesian were auctioned at consistent prices, heavy cuts performing especially well at $3.61-$3.64/kg for 327-391kg. Almost all others of the same breed were $3.44-$3.64/kg for 250kg and above.

Weights were generally on the lower-side through the yearling heifers but anything that wasn’t too mixed-bred looking sold well regardless. Traditional pens at 190-246kg were all $3.56-$3.75/kg. Heavier dairy-beef options, 264-296kg, were only a little off that pace at $3.49-$3.59/kg.

2000

Ave. KG

2.0 3-Jun

Average Sale Prices Age/Class

Breed

Ave. $/hd

Ave. $/kg

2-year Steer

Traditional

460

1680

3.67

2-year Steer

Dairy-beef

400

1445

3.61

2-year Heifer

Traditional

385

1375

3.55

2-year Heifer

Dairy-beef

395

1300

3.30

Reece Brick

Store cattle tallies Wnr/R1

314

551

240

108

355

Bull

5

228

34

267

Cow

-

-

-

39

Total

12

705

461

1239

1000 500 0

4.0

4.27 3.82

3.0

Yearling Heifer

Traditional

220

805

3.64

Yearling Heifer

Dairy-beef

250

810

3.26

2.5

3.58 2.54

+64 6 323 6393 | info@agrihq.co.nz | agrihq.co.nz

Traditional steer 425-475kg ($/kg)

3-Aug 5-yr ave

3-Oct Last year

3-Dec This year

Friesian bull 325-375kg ($/kg)

3.5

1230

1055

23-Sep This year

2.5

1030

1325

9-Sep Last year

3.5

290

295

26-Aug 5-yr ave

3.0

270

520

12-Aug

4.0

Traditional

Friesian

Store cattle tallies

1500

Dairy-beef

Traditional

Total

237

7

Yearling Steer

MA Cow

2yr +

-

Heifer

Yearling Steer

Yearling Bull

1yr/R2

Steer

2.0 3-Jun

3-Aug 5-yr ave

3-Oct Last year

3-Dec This year

VIEWPOINT

Confidence in beef job remains solid A good old-fashioned winter has returned this year, making life a little busier on-farm.

Many are being quickly reminded about the amount of feed stock require when the wet weather doesn’t give up.

It’s early days but if these winter weather patterns continue, then chances are it could dampen store spirits and potentially create some pressure at a processing level, especially for those with extra trade lambs on. That has certainly been the case in the North Island in recent weeks where feed reserves have disappeared and a more cautious approach to taking on any more mouths has developed.

Due to timing the beef job is likely to be less impacted. A solid store market still exists which is beneficial given these are making up the bulk of cattle trading lately.

Stable market conditions this year have

created confidence in the beef job. Bull and prime beef prices have tracked in a tight range all year and are now starting to find momentum. The lack of negativity in market direction has been welcoming. Although the US imported beef market has headed in the wrong direction, we have yet to truly feel any downside with the NZD supporting returns.

There is still some fat in the beef game according to our latest forecasts. This will continue to support the store market whilst still allowing for decent margins at the other end.

The likelihood of further upside seems more plausible for beef than lamb. While supplies are ample in key markets now – its coinciding with our offseason. As our spring kill gets underway, in-market demand is expected to pick up as markets look for supply.

Confidence in the direction of lamb

+64 6 323 6393 | info@agrihq.co.nz | agrihq.co.nz

Mel Croad

As our spring beef kill gets underway, in-market demand is expected to pick up as markets look for supply. prices is a little less black and white. Lamb prices have been teetering at the top for most of the season, having bottomed out at $8.10/ kg. Prior to late 2019 that was considered almost peak money. Being a niche product also increases the risk profile for lamb, especially when global food inflation is rampant, and consumers are starting to downgrade protein choices. Procurement will continue to drive farmgate prices, but that has a limited life span.

Re-energised export market activity will be key to keeping pricing strong.

46

46

Markets

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 13, 2023

AgriHQ market trends Cattle

Sheep

Deer

Beef

Sheep Meat

Venison

Slaughter price (NZ$/kgCW)

Last week

Last year

North Island P2 steer (300kg)

5.85

6.70

North Island M2 bull (300kg)

5.95

6.40

North Island M cow (190kg)

3.95

4.80

South Island P2 steer (300kg)

5.55

6.45

South Island M2 bull (300kg)

5.45

6.15

South Island M cow (190kg)

3.85

4.75

Slaughter price (NZ$/kgCW)

Last week

Last year

North Island AP stag (60kg)

8.80

8.95

5.60

South Island AP stag (60kg)

8.75

8.95

6.50

8.85

2.50

5.60

Fertiliser Last week

Last year

DAP

1197

1794

Super

474

509

Urea

897

1340

Urea (Coated)

946

1289

Sep

Last year

Last week

Last year

North Island lamb (18kg)

6.50

8.85

North Island mutton (25kg)

2.80

South Island lamb (18kg) South Island mutton (25kg)

Fertiliser

Export markets (NZ$/kg) China lamb flaps

8.78

10.37

Wool

Export markets (NZ$/kg) US imported 95CL bull

9.00

US domestic 90CL cow

8.50

10.58

8.60

NOTE: Slaughter values are weighted average gross operating prices including premiums but excluding breed premiums for cattle.

Steer slaughter price ($/kgCW)

(NZ$/kg clean)

15-Nov

Last year

Crossbred fleece

3.38

2.64

Crossbred second shear

2.91

2.35

Courtesy of www.fusca.co.nz

Lamb slaughter price ($/kgCW)

7.0 6.5

NZ Log Exports (tonnes)

8.5

China

1,789,412

1,660,959

Rest of world

204,344

195,418

Carbon price (NZ$/tonne)

Last week

Last year

70.1

88.4

7.0

NZU

6.5

5.0 Nov

Jan

Mar

May

Jul

North Island

6.0

Sep

Nov

Jan

South Island

Mar May North Island

Jul

Stag Slaughter price ($/kgCW)

Sep South Island

10.0

NZ lamb exports (Aug - Oct, thous. tonnes)

NZ beef exports (Aug - Oct, thous. tonnes)

Forestry

9.0

7.5

5.5

NZ average (NZ$/tonne)

Exports

8.0

6.0

Slaughter price (NZ$/kgCW)

9.5 30

60

9.0

50 20

40

8.5

30 8.0

10

20

Nov

10 0

0 China

Japan

S. Korea

Rest of Last year Asia

US

Other

This year

Chin a

EU Mid. Eas t Last year

UK

US This year

Other

Jan

Mar North Island

May

Jul Sep South Island

Data provided by

Rich farming news for time-poor farmers.

P ODC A S T

GET in FOCUS WEEKLY

47

Markets

47

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – November 14, 2023

NZX market trends Dairy

Grain

Data provided by

Milk price futures ($/kgMS)

Close of market

Canterbury feed wheat ($/tonne)

10.5

5pm, Wednesday

700 650

9.5

S&P/NZX PRIMARY SECTOR EQUITY

600 8.5

450 Nov

Jan

Mar

May

Jul

Sep

Sep-2024

Nov

Prior week

4 weeks prior

WMP

2960

2965

3150

SMP

2750

2550

2785

AMF

5600

5580

5325

Butter

5050

5180

5050

Milk Price

7.75

7.77

7.95

ArborGen Holdings Limited

0.18

0.23

0.17

The a2 Milk Company Limited

4.06

7.83

4

Cannasouth Limited

0.165

0.32

0.161

700

Comvita Limited

3

3.48

2.75

650

Delegat Group Limited

7.6

10.2

7.52

Fonterra Shareholders' Fund (NS)

3

3.88

2.94

Foley Wines Limited

1.24

1.42

1.18

Greenfern Industries Limited

0.042

0.113

0.042

Livestock Improvement Corporation Ltd (NS)

0.95

1.25

0.95

Marlborough Wine Estates Group Limited

0.149

0.19

0.149

NZ King Salmon Investments Limited

0.195

0.24

0.181

PGG Wrightson Limited

3.41

4.67

3.1

Rua Bioscience Limited

0.158

0.22

0.094

Sanford Limited (NS)

3.85

4.39

3.7

Scales Corporation Limited

3.04

4.25

2.75

Seeka Limited

2.25

3.72

2.18

Synlait Milk Limited (NS)

1.33

3.65

1.16

T&G Global Limited

1.9

2.37

1.81

S&P/NZX Primary Sector Equity Index

9929

12870

9929

S&P/NZX 50 Index

11353

12212

10742

S&P/NZX 10 Index

11670

12411

10937

Nov

Jan

Mar

May

Jul

Sep

Nov

600 550 500 450

* price as at close of business on Wednesday

400 Nov

WMP futures - vs four weeks ago (US$/tonne)

Jan

Mar

May

Jul

Sep

Nov

Waikato palm kernel ($/tonne)

3500

450

3400 3300 400

3200 3100 3000

350

2900 2800 2700 Nov

Dec

Jan

Latest price

Feb

Mar 4 weeks ago

Apr

11670

Close

Canterbury feed barley ($/tonne)

Nearest contract Last price*

11353

Company

400

Sep-2025

Dairy Futures (US$/t)

S&P/NZX 10 INDEX

Listed Agri shares

500

7.5 6.5

9929

550

S&P/NZX 50 INDEX

300 Nov

Jan

Mar

May

Jul

Sep

Nov

YTD High YTD Low

Grow your team’s skills

so they can udderly take on anything Learn online with a Dairy Assistant course getmilking.co.nz

48

Weather

ruralweather.co.nz

Summer is moving in, winter is fading Philip Duncan

NEWS

H

Weather

UMAN gut instinct is a great thing. We sometimes get a sense that something is changing or happening, but maybe don’t have a lot of data or facts to back it up. Over the past couple of weeks, despite the near daily complaints we receive about how wet and cool this spring has been, I’ve had this gut feeling that things are starting to change – that things are drying out.

Over the years I’ve been told I can be a little lazy at times, so it’s not surprising that over the past couple weeks I’ve been a bit irked that my lazy time has been interrupted with things like watering my garden. This is a summer-only chore, surely? But as high pressure, warmer days and low rainfall rain events move through, a drier pattern is now emerging – and not just in Phil Duncan’s small garden, but on a much larger scale across our farming regions.

At the time of writing this column the following regions

WIN

one of three Gift Cards from Hunting & Fishing NZ valued at

$1,000

could do with a drink of rain: Auckland, Waikato, North Taranaki, east cape, eastern Bay of Plenty, Whanganui, Manawatū, Horowhenua, Wellington, southern Wairarapa, Marlborough, coastal Canterbury, and even a few parts of Southland. Every one of those places is showing up on New Zealand’s soil moisture anomaly map.

As many of you know, I’m a longtime Monday guest on Jamie Mackay’s The Country on NewstalkZB. Jamie often says “parts of New Zealand are always only a couple weeks away from drought when the nor’wester kicks in”. He’s often used a quote similar to this over the years, referencing how fast NZ can dry out (especially eastern areas) when you reach this time of year. While it’s a slightly flippant remark, it’s also based in some truths.

November is always an interesting month to me – we often have flatter ratings and people tend to glance at a forecast and see it’s not so dramatic as maybe October was. But November is often that transitional month that shifts us from “spring” to “summer”.

In the most recent episode of El Niño Watch – the weekly podcasts we’re doing on farmersweekly. co.nz thanks to FMG – I said: “When you take the season of spring this year, from the very beginning in early September to how it will end in late November, it has been a fairly ideal and healthy set-up nationwide for basically every single region when you look it at from start to finish.”

But now we’re coming into summer, and the El Niño side of things may be much more noticeable with longer dry spells and higher daytime temperatures, still mixed in with the cooler nights and still some unsettled wet days and low pressure. But now really is the time to put your summer thinking hat on (and to be sun smart outdoors!)

Highlights this week • High pressure and inland downpours kick off this week • Weak cold front late week for Southland and Otago, then it slides up eastern NZ • A mixture of both high and low pressure this weekend

DRY TIMES: The public soil moisture anomaly map shows which parts of NZ are now drying out. Some weekend rain may have helped some of these places – but it shows which areas are first to notice the end to our wetter-than-usual 2023.

Thank you to our fantastic Farmers & Growers To mark the year’s end and say ‘thanks’ for your contribution, here’s your chance to win with Rabobank!

As New Zealand’s only specialist food and agri bank we get farming. We also know that sometimes it’s good to get off the farm, and do something just for you.

So we’re giving away three Hunting & Fishing NZ Gift Cards valued at $1,000 each, in time for the holiday season.

To be in to win, scan the QR code below, then complete the entry form.

Competition closes 5 December 2023. T&C’s apply.

Visit rabobank.co.nz/thank-a-farmer-giveaway

1

THE RURAL BUTCHER

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219.00

$

INC GST

BU71

539 .00

$

INC GST

0800 843 024

BU79

$

1,079.00

INC GST

BU78

$

45.00

INC GST

www.ruralbutcher.co.nz

BU110

THE RURAL BUTCHER

Knives, Butchery Tools & Accessories for the Home Butcher T12 Mincer

T22 Mincer

• 150kg/hr

$

629.00

INC GST

• 250kg/hr

BU08

• 130mm patties

BU132

20.00

BU146

Nylon Apron

$

INC GST

1,749.00

$

BU09

26.00

$

INC GST

35.00

INC GST

BU911

INC GST

$

BU131

59.00

BU232

INC GST

$

35.00

BU119

INC GST

BU14

49.00

BU231

INC GST

$

INC GST

Cut Resistant Glove

Polycotton Apron

BU105

490.00

$

Pattie Smasher

• Bonus bottle opener attached

PPU Apron

$

• 20 Litre

Pattie Smasher/Flipper

• 130mm patties

279.00

INC GST

INC GST

Double Pattie Press

Manual Pattie Press

$

• 350kg/hr

995.00

$

Meat Mixer

T32 Mincer

$

21.00

GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR HIM & HER!

279.00

BU13

29.00

BU59

69.00

BU203

$

INC GST

6” Meat Cleaver

$

INC GST

$

2

INC GST

379.00

BU10

49.00

BU58

59.00

BU202

$

INC GST

$

INC GST

INC GST

0800 843 024

INC GST

BU199

$

69.00

BU144

32.00

BU137

INC GST

$

INC GST

179 .00

$

INC GST

BU71

Ox Meat Cleaver

$

79.00

INC GST

BU145

Butchers Twine 560m

Stockinette 500g

Meat Tenderiser

$

1,499.00

$

GIF VOUC T AVAI HERS LAB onli LE ne!

Vacuum Sealer

8.5” Meat Cleaver

8” Meat Cleaver

Meat/Axe Tenderiser

15L Electric Sausage Filler

7L Sausage Filler

3L Sausage Filler

BU306-10

INC GST

$

25.00

INC GST

BU176

www.ruralbutcher.co.nz

Terms & Conditions apply. Promotional offers valid until 31st December 2023. All prices exclude freight unless otherwise stated. Bainbridge & Rural Butcher prices include GST. Farmquip prices exclude GST & freight.

Up to 25% off Bainbridge products discounted off current RRP. $500 INC GST Bainbridge voucher valid on any yard over $10,000 + GST and paid for in full before delivery of voucher. Not available to wholesale customers.

THE RURAL BUTCHER

Knives, Butchery Tools & Accessories for the Home Butcher Medium Bandsaw Large Bandsaw

Small Bandsaw

• Throat size 270mm H x 200mm W

1,199.00

$

BU91

INC GST

• Throat size 380mm H x 250mm W

2,395.00

$

BU92

INC GST

Stainless Steel Workbench Stainless Steel Sink Workbench ‫ ڞ‬PP / [ PP ' [ PP +

‫ ڞ‬PP / [ PP ' [ PP +

399.00

$

BU80

INC GST

579 .00

$

BU82

INC GST

Stainless Steel Railed Wall Butchers Blocks • 600mm x 400mm x 40mm Shelf

$

79 .00

159- 199

$

BU84

INC GST

$

.00

INC GST

• Cuts 0-12mm thickness

• Throat size 480mm H x 285mm W

3,495.00

$

INC GST

BU93

Stainless Steel Corner Workbench

479 .00

INC GST

BU83

$

99.00

INC GST

679 .00

$

• 40W

BU197 BU910

99.00

$

INC GST

GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR HIM & HER! Stainless Steel Meat Pan

• 325mm x 176mm x 150mm

29.00

$

BU193

INC GST

Stainless Steel Meat Pan

• 325mm x 265mm x 150mm

39.00

$

159 .00

INC GST

BU300

199 .00

$

INC GST

2 Knife Pouch 520mm

3 Knife Pouch

30.00

$

$

INC GST

BU107

ORDER BEFORE FRIDAY 15 DECEMBER TO RECIEVE BEFORE XMAS

40.00

INC GST

BU302

79.00

INC GST

0800 843 024

Stainless Steel Lids

55.00

$

$

INC GST

BU189

39.00

$

INC GST

29.00

$

INC GST

BU303

79.00

$

INC GST

BU194/95/96

29.00

BU96

25.00

BU109

INC GST

$

INC GST

Butchers Belt

BU106

Meat Saw 22”

BU209

15.00

Poultry/Meat Scissors

4 Knife Pouch 370mm

BU201

GIF VOUC T AVA HERS ILAB onli LE ne!

Stainless Steel Meat Pan

• 530mm x 325mm x 150mm

Brine Injector

Meat Saw 12”

$

3

BU191

Potato/Vege Cutter

Juicer/Vege Cutter

$

INC GST

BU81

INC GST

Bug Zapper

• Up to 50kg

BU220-221

BU94

INC GST

• 900 W x 600 D

• 900 W x 900 D

$

799 .00

$

Butchers Block Workbench

Weigh Scales

• 900mm x 400mm x 40mm

• 1200 W x 300 D

Meat Slicer

$

INC GST

Meat Saw 25”

BU51

89.00

$

INC GST

BU52

www.ruralbutcher.co.nz

Terms & Conditions apply. Promotional offers valid until 31st December 2023. All prices exclude freight unless otherwise stated. Bainbridge & Rural Butcher prices include GST. Farmquip prices exclude GST & freight.

Up to 25% off Bainbridge products discounted off current RRP. $500 INC GST Bainbridge voucher valid on any yard over $10,000 + GST and paid for in full before delivery of voucher. Not available to wholesale customers.

UP TO 25% Supreme Poultry Feeders • 5 kg

$

OPTIONAL LEGS X 4 $9.95

37.50

INC GST

Stock Code: A8093

Treadle Feeder • 8 kg

$

104

.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A8345

POULTRY & BIRD PO EQUIPMENT

OFF Supreme Feeders with Cover

Supreme Poultry Feeders • 18 kg

$

OPTIONAL LEGS X 4 $9.95

52 .50

Stock Code: A8094

INC GST

Galvanised Feeder with Glass Jar

$

14

.95

$

OPTIONAL LEGS X 4 $9.95

37.50

INC GST

Stock Code: A8121

Galvanised Poultry Feeder

• 5 kg

Stock Code: A8212

INC GST

• 8kg

$

52

.50

INC GST

Supreme Feeders with Cover • 15kg

$

OPTIONAL LEGS X 4 $9.95

52 .50

Stock Code: A8130

INC GST

7

$ .50

Stock Code: A8135

INC GST

Suspension Poultry Suspension Feeder with Lid Feeder • 1.5kg, 3kg, 5kg, 8kg

Priced from

Stock Code: A8095

Supreme Poultry Range - 4 Legs

$

6

.70

Stock Code: A8007 - A8010

INC GST

• 3kg, 5kg, 8kg

Priced from

$

14.95

Stock Code: A8032-34

INC GST

Treadle Feeder

1kg Poultry Feeder Metal Nesting Boxes Metal Nesting Boxes Metal Nesting Boxes

119.95

$

• 12 kg

$

INC GST

Stock Code: A8346

Treadle Feeder • 20 kg

$

119.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A8347

Tripod Drinker • 30 L

$

8.65

Stock Code: A8120

INC GST

INC GST

Stock Code: A8128

14

.20

INC GST

Stock Code: A8161

$

8

.95

Stock Code: A8124

INC GST

$

14

.95

Stock Code: A8234

INC GST

$

OPTIONAL LEGS X 4 $7.50

29 .95

Stock Code: A8091

INC GST

$

7

• 10 L

$

OPTIONAL LEGS X 4 $7.50

37 .50

INC GST

Stock Code: A8092

Stainless Steel Drinker • 2L, 3L, 9L

Priced from

.50

Stock Code: A8327

INC GST

$

37.50

INC GST

Stock Code: A8050

Egg Carrier

22 .46

$

$

• 12 egg • Auto egg turning

• 24 egg • Auto egg turning

$

Egg Tech Auto Incubator

$ 4

371.25

INC GST

Stock Code: A8075

Stock Code: A8162

INC GST

Treat Roller

$

14 .95

INC GST

Stock Code: A8319-4

Egg Tech Auto Incubator

$

$

127.00

Stock Code: A8163

INC GST

Metal Nesting Box Legs

7

Priced from

.50

Stock Code: A8235

INC GST

521.25

INC GST

7.50

Egg Tech Auto Incubator

• 49 egg • Auto egg turning

Stock Code: A8077

$

521.25

INC GST

Stock Code: A8077

$

44 .95

Stock Code: A8228

INC GST

Poultry Drinker

•1L • 5 colours to choose from

OPTIONAL LEGS X 4 $7.50

$

56 .20

Stock Code: A8127

INC GST

$

5.95

Stock Code: A8056

INC GST

Straight Drinker

Spiral Leg Rings

18 .70

$

• 4.5 L • 5 colours to choose from

$

Stock Code: A8354

INC GST

• 2 pack

Stock Code: A8227

INC GST

• 15 L

Ceramic Nesting Eggs

• Carries 12 eggs

• 4 pack

INC GST Stock Code: A8142-2

96.99

Supreme Poultry Supreme Poultry Supreme Top Fill Drinker with Handle Drinker with Handle Poultry Drinker

Nipple Lubing Cup Poultry Dropper Nipples

• 2 pack

$

• Single & Double

Priced from

Stock Code: A8211

INC GST

• 20 hole

Galvanised Drinker Siphon Drinker • 1.5L, 3L, 5L with Glass Jar

$

66 .99

Plastic Feed Trough Vege Basket

•5L

104.95

$

• Triple Hole

• Double Hole

• Single Hole

$

7.50

INC GST

Stock Code: A8125

Metal Brooding Cage

$

224.25

INC GST

Stock Code: A8167

• Pack of 20

8 .95

Stock Code: A8018

INC GST

Leg Rings

• Mixed 24 pack • 15mm

$

8.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A8013-17

Electrified Poultry Netting

• 50m x 112cm H

$

371.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A8048

CALL 0800 843 024 TO ORDER NOW! Terms & Conditions apply. Promotional offers valid until 31st December 2023. All prices exclude freight unless otherwise stated. Bainbridge & Rural Butcher prices include GST. Farmquip prices exclude GST & freight.

Up to 25% off Bainbridge products discounted off current RRP. $500 INC GST Bainbridge voucher valid on any yard over $10,000 + GST and paid for in full before delivery of voucher. Not available to wholesale customers.

UP TO 25% Grooming Kits

• Hoof pick • Palm curry comb • Horse comb • Stiff dandy brush and more!

$

59 .95

Stock Code: A4113

INC GST

Mane & Tail Brush

• 6 colours to choose from

$

9.70

Stock Code: A4114

INC GST

EQUINE, GROOMING & SHOW

OFF Palm Curry Comb

Massage Curry Comb

$

2 .95

• 6 colours to choose from

Stock Code: A4001

INC GST

Horse Comb

4.45

Stock Code: A4110

INC GST

Reversible Curry Comb

Shedding Blade

7.45

$

• 4 stainless steel blades

$

Stock Code: A4018

INC GST

Horse Halter

• Pony/Cob/Full • 5 colours to choose from

$

37.45

INC GST

Stock Code: A4144-46

Hay Net Filling Aid • Wall Mounted • Hay net not included

$

44

.95

INC GST

11 .95

INC GST

Stock Code: A4005

Rope Lead with Brass Snap

• 5 colours to choose from • 2m

$

11.20

INC GST

Stock Code: A4149

• Small, Medium, Large

Stock Code: A3600

18

INC GST

Stock Code: A3629

Hay Bale Transport Bag

134 .25

$

• Pony/Cob/Full

• Pony/Cob/Full

26 .95

$

INC GST Stock Code: A5086

44 .95

INC GST

$

5.20

Stock Code: A5078

INC GST

Stock Code: A3646

INC GST

Stock Code: A4152

Ribbed Bell Boots • S - XXL

17.21

$

5

INC GST Stock Code: A5080-84

26 .95

INC GST

Stock Code: A4153

Stock Code: A4129

INC GST

$

10 .46

Stock Code: A4072

INC GST

Sweat Scraper & Curry Comb

Palm Soft Brush

6.70

$

• 6 colours to choose from

$

Stock Code: A4119

INC GST

• 6 colours to choose from

9.70

INC GST

Stock Code: A4132

$

Stock Code: A4078

INC GST

• Yellow or Orange

6.70

Stock Code: A4070

INC GST

Rope Lead with Brass Panic Snap

Cotton Lead Rope

14 .95

$

$

INC GST

Stock Code: A4150

• 3 colours to choose from • 3m

18 .70

INC GST

Stock Code: A2133

Hay Net with Filling Hay Net with Drawstrings Aid • Large

$

37 .46

INC GST

Stock Code: A3594

$

13 .45

INC GST

Stock Code: A3006

$

5 .95

INC GST

Stock Code: A4002

Gripping Body Brush

$

8 .95

INC GST

Stock Code: A4115

Heavy Duty Hay Rope Net

$

22 .45

INC GST

Stock Code: A3608

Hay Feeder Bag

Supreme Stable Fork Poop Scooper

44 .95

$

$

INC GST

Stock Code: A3647

$

26 .95

INC GST

Stock Code: A4155

Farmquip 12V Animal Grooming Kit

344 .95

$

INC GST Stock Code: F6-HA

9.70

7.45

$

Farmquip Horse Clippers

$

$

Microfibre Grooming Washer Groomer Mit Curry Comb

Fly Mask Mesh with Fly Mask Mesh with Fly Mask Mesh • Pony/Cob/Full Ear Cover Padded Ear Cover

$

• 6 colours to choose from

Stiff Dandy Brush

• 6 colours to choose from

Flexible Coarse Massage Brush

Priced from

Hoof Farrier Stand

$

Hoof Pick

• Small & Medium

Priced from

.70

Stock Code: A4111

INC GST

• 5 colours to choose from • 2m

Slow Feed Hay Net

$

9.70

• 6 colours to choose from

• 5 colours to choose from

$

$

Palm Breakdown Comb

154.45

INC GST

Stock Code: 3160001

• 1m

44 .95

INC GST

Stock Code: A3118

Fly Mask Mesh with Ear Cut Outs • Pony/Cob/Full

$

26.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A4156

$

82 .45

INC GST

Stock Code: A3596

Fly Veil

• Pony/Cob/Full

$

11.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A4154

Farmquip Electric Animal Grooming Kit

Horse Toy Treat Ball

240.70

$

$

INC GST

Stock Code: 3160002

26.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A3605

CALL 0800 843 024 TO ORDER NOW!

Terms & Conditions apply. Promotional offers valid until 31st December 2023. All prices exclude freight unless otherwise stated. Bainbridge & Rural Butcher prices include GST. Farmquip prices exclude GST & freight.

Up to 25% off Bainbridge products discounted off current RRP. $500 INC GST Bainbridge voucher valid on any yard over $10,000 + GST and paid for in full before delivery of voucher. Not available to wholesale customers.

COMPANION COMPANION ANIMALS ANIMALS Working Dog Wire Muzzle

Stockman Dog Muzzle Plastic

29

$

$

.95

Stock Code: A7041

INC GST

Premium Sport Collar

Priced from

7

.45

Stock Code: A7257

INC GST

Tie Out Cable • 3m, 4.5m, 6m

14

$ Stock Code: A7027

INC GST

.20

Stock Code: A7038-47

INC GST

Priced from

11

.20

INC GST

$

9

•S-L

5kg Self Feeder

$

Stock Code: A7001

INC GST

Tie Out Cable & Ground Stake

$

74

.95

INC GST

$

22

.46

Stock Code: A7406

INC GST

12 .71

INC GST

Stock Code: A7183

Ute Dog Chain

$

19

.45

INC GST

Stock Code: A7093

$

Stock Code: A7216

• 3L

20

.20

Stock Code: A7133

INC GST

UP TO 25%

$

20

.20

INC GST

Stock Code: A7131

Aluminium Grain Shovel

44.95

$

INC GST

Stock Code: A3118

Flat Sided Stainless Bucket

Priced from

$

14 .95

INC GST

67.46

INC GST

Stock Code: A3519

Stock Code: A3520

5 .21

INC GST

Dog Bowl

Stock Code: A7032

• Stainless Steel • 525ml, 1.2L, 1.9L, 2.7L

$

10.46

INC GST

INC GST

Stock Code: A7013

Restraint Chain

• 4m

$

22 .45

INC GST Stock Code: A7153

Digital Measuring Bowl • Built in digital scale

Stock Code: A7074

$

17 .95

INC GST

Stock Code: A7239

$

81.75

INC GST

Stock Code: A7041

Metal Feed Trough 18L

Horse Toy Treat Ball

74.95

$

$

INC GST

Stock Code: A3599

26.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A3605

Aluminium Feed Scoop

Heavy Duty Feed Scoop

Grain Shovel Plastic

13.45

$

5.95

$

• 1kg

$

INC GST

Stock Code: A3279

• 8 Colours to choose from • 1L

INC GST

Stock Code: A3402

• 35cm W - 110cm L

52.46

INC GST

Stock Code: A3508

Poop Scoop Set

14.95

$

7 .45

$

10.45

Stock Code: A3149

$

24.70

Stock Code: A3659

$

INC GST

Stock Code: A3036

112.45

$

• Multiple colours available

INC GST Stock Code: A7217

$

11 .95

Flexible Funnel

42L Flexi Tub

$

Dog Choke Chain

• 45cm, 55cm, 65cm, 75cm

$

Measuring Jug

15kg Self Feeder • Galvanised • Dogs

Stock Code: A7263

Measuring Jug • 5L

• 1.1LT, 2LT, 3.3LT, 6LT, 8.3LT

6

Stock Code: A3150

Supreme Stable Fork - Plastic

$

INC GST

• 6 colours to choose from

WATERING W

$

INC GST

11 .95

OFF

134 .25

81.75

$

Dog Lead with Padded Handle

FEEDING & FE

Supreme Stainless Nylon Automatic Automatic Drinking Drinking Bowl Bowl

INC GST Stock Code: A3645

Stock Code: A7207-77

Priced from

Cast Iron Drinking Bowl

$

INC GST

Priced from

Dry Food Dispenser Water Dispenser

• 3L

• Galvanised • Dogs

37.46

• 6 colours to choose from • XS - XL

Priced from

.70

Priced from

Stock Code: A7402

Priced from

$

Nylon Working Dog Reflective Dog Collar Premium Sports • 6 colours to choose from Collar Harness

• 4.5m

$

ORDER BEFORE FRIDAY 15 DECEMBER TO RECIEVE BEFORE XMAS

• S - XL

Priced from

.95

• 4 colours to choose from • 45cm, 50cm, 55cm, 60cm

• 6 colours to choose from • XS - XL

$

26

Silicone Dog Muzzle Dog Bed

• XXS - XL

22.46

INC GST

Stock Code: A3106

• 1L

INC GST

Stock Code: A3034

25L Flexi Tub

• Multiple colours available

$

14.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A3104

• 235mm

INC GST

33.71

INC GST

Stock Code: A3074

Hay Bag Feeder with Hole Bainbridge Rain Gauage

$

INC GST

$

14.95

INC GST

Stock Code: A3401

CALL 0800 843 024 TO ORDER NOW! Terms & Conditions apply. Promotional offers valid until 31st December 2023. All prices exclude freight unless otherwise stated. Bainbridge & Rural Butcher prices include GST. Farmquip prices exclude GST & freight.

Up to 25% off Bainbridge products discounted off current RRP. $500 INC GST Bainbridge voucher valid on any yard over $10,000 + GST and paid for in full before delivery of voucher. Not available to wholesale customers.

UP TO 25%

CATTLE & SHEEP

OFF

Lamb Docking Iron

Sheep/Calf Scratch Brush - Totem • 38cm W x 91cm H

299.00

$

Stock Code: A9010

INC GST

$

599 .00

INC GST

Stock Code: A9144

Sheep Restrainer Large

Sheep Restrainer Small

11.20

$

• 22.5cm

$

Stock Code: A9140

INC GST

• 17.5cm

9.70

INC GST

Stock Rattle

Ram Cuff

29 .00

$

$

INC GST

Stock Code: A9036

24.00

INC GST

LG Bander Tool Superior Large Bands

Stock Code: A9141

126 .00

INC GST

Stock Code: A2232

INC GST

$

29 .95

INC GST

Sheep Cuff

862.50

$

• 55cm W x 160cm H

$

INC GST

Stock Code: A2525

Uterine Support - 4 pack

$

8.90

INC GST

Stock Code: A9016

Stock Code: A9007

Stock Code: A2207

22.46

Sheep Weigh Crate • 3 way draft

2,995 .00

$

INC GST

Sheep Anti Backing Ratchets

279 .00

$

$

INC GST

Pair

Stock Code: 3160000

195 .00

Small Bands

119 .25

$

$

INC GST

Stock Code: A2231

• 25 pack

22 .45

Stock Code: A2210

owned and operated

CONTACT US FOR A QUOTE

Sheep Yard 752 Head

Daggers Mate Sheep Handler

CONTACT US FOR A QUOTE

• The ultimate machine for fast and efficient dagging & crutching • Air controlled on skids • Tips sheep on thier sides for dagging & crutching • Adjustable overhead clamp • Made in New Zealand

Fixed Sides

Sheep/Calf Panels

• Railed - 3m W x 1m H • Quick, easy pin together yard panel for a variety of uses • Use for sheep/calves/goats

4 FOR $700

CONTACT US FOR A QUOTE

$ 7 4

INC GST

CALL 0800 843 024 TO ORDER NOW!

• Includes adjustable sides draft module • Includes adjustable sides draft module Draft Module • Heavy duty semi permanent sheep yards • Heavy duty semi permanent sheep yards • Maintains a manageable flow • Hot dip galvanised • Hot dip galvanised to 3-way draft gates • No overhead frames on gates • No overhead frames on gates ‫ [ [ ڞ‬H[W ‫' ڞ‬HOLYHUHG DV NLWVHW ‫' ڞ‬HOLYHUHG DV NLWVHW

CONTACT US FOR A QUOTE

Stock Code: 2015200

100% New Zealand

The only automated sheep handler giving full access to belly & feet • Tips sheep on their sides for dagging & crutching • 3-way and 5-way drafting options • Fully automated weighing • Made in New Zealand

Sheep Yard 185 Head

INC GST

Small Bander Tool Superior

843024

www.farmquip.co Crutch & Way Combo

Stock Code: A9006

INC GST

Electric Sheep Clippers • 380 W

• 25 pack

$

Cattle Scratch Brush - Totem

0800 843 024

3,595.00 +GST

$

199.00

+GST FREIGHT EACH PLUS

Terms & Conditions apply. Promotional offers valid until 31st December 2023. All prices exclude freight unless otherwise stated. Bainbridge & Rural Butcher prices include GST. Farmquip prices exclude GST & freight.

Up to 25% off Bainbridge products discounted off current RRP. $500 INC GST Bainbridge voucher valid on any yard over $10,000 + GST and paid for in full before delivery of voucher. Not available to wholesale customers.

CATTLE HANDLING Farmhand Yard Crush

3,990.00

$

$

+GST

Farmhand Maxi Crush

Farmhand Vetless Crush

5,990.00

7,990.00

$

+GST

$

+GST

Optional: side drafting gate add $500.00 + GST

Optional: offside draft handle $590.00 + GST

Stockmaster Vet Crush

Stockman Vetless Crush Stockman Vet Crush

$

11,490 .00 +GST

Optional: offside draft handle $590.00 + GST

-with double sided squeeze

11,990 .00

$

Optional offside draft handle $590.00 + GST

15,990.00

$

+GST

Optional offside draft handle $590.00 + GST

Stockmaster Vetless Crush

+GST

Optional offside draft handle $590.00 + GST

Farmhand 75 Head Yard

• 7 rail multi-purpose for cattle and sheep • Farmhand walkthrough headbail • Farmhand sliding race gate • Hot dipped galvanised • Kit set

$

9,900 .00 +GST

Excludes loading ramp. Add loading ramp for $3,795.00 + GST

• 7-rail multi-purpose for cattle and sheep • Farmhand walkthrough headbail • Farmhand sliding gate • Hot dipped galvanised • Kit set

$

15,990.00

$

+GST

Excludes loading ramp. Add loading ramp for $3,795.00 + GST

Stockman Cattle Yard #1 - with curved force tub

Stockmaster Headbail

$

+GST

2,990.00

+GST

Farmhand 97 Head Yard

• 7-rail multi-purpose for cattle and sheep • Farmhand walkthrough headbail • Farmhand sliding gate • Hot dipped galvanised • Kit set

$

22,990 .00 +GST

Excludes loading ramp. Add loading ramp Excludes loading ramp. Add loading ramp for $3,795.00 + GST for $3,795.00 + GST

9 Head

Stockman Cattle Yard #3 - with cattle free area mp

40 Head

tw Ca alk

84 HEAD

36 Head

in

ad

Lo

a gR

130 HEAD

37 Head 48 Head Loading Ramp

• Large curved tub with alloy sheeted sides • Heavy duty anti backing gate for operator safety • Headbail & sliding gate in race CONTACT • Drafting gates US FOR A • 97 x 42mm heavy duty cattle rail QUOTE • Optional loading ramp

8

19,990.00

Stockman Cattle Yard #2 - with 5 section race

46 HEAD 10 Head

• 7-rail multi-purpose for cattle and sheep • Farmhand walkthrough headbail • Farmhand sliding gate • Hot dipped galvanised • Kit set

+GST

Optional offside draft handle $590.00 + GST

SPEND OVER 10K ON ANY CATTLE YARD & RECEIVE...

Farmhand 25 Head Yard Farmhand 49 Head Yard

9,990.00

27 Head

CONTACT US FOR A QUOTE

• Large, spacious yard with good animal flow • 97 x 42mm heavy duty cattle rail which minimises animal bruising • Optional cattle crush available • Optional loading ramp

0800 843 024

36 Head

CONTACT US FOR A QUOTE

15 Head • Popular Mid-Large scale yard • 4 working pens with curved flow • Circular force pen & gate for operator safety • Cattle free area - allows complete operator safety • Optional catwalk available • Optional cattle crush and loading ramps available

Terms & Conditions apply. Promotional offers valid until 31st December 2023. All prices exclude freight unless otherwise stated. Bainbridge & Rural Butcher prices include GST. Farmquip prices exclude GST & freight.

Up to 25% off Bainbridge products discounted off current RRP. $500 INC GST Bainbridge voucher valid on any yard over $10,000 + GST and paid for in full before delivery of voucher. Not available to wholesale customers.