Farmers Weekly NZ January 21 2019 by AgriHQ

20 Exciting times for growers Vol 18 No 2, January 21, 2019

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Summer sweet spot Richard Rennie

richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz

ARMERS planning a later January holiday will be able to shut the gate on the way out the drive feeling reasonably relaxed about how much feed is likely to greet them when they get home. Weather Watch director Philip Duncan said this summer has hit something of a sweet spot, both for holiday makers and farmers, and there are prospects that will continue for some weeks. “What we were seeing at the end of last year was the influence of high pressure systems sitting over New Zealand with occasional frontal systems coming through in between them, almost like a spring weather pattern that was running through to January.” The country is now at a point where some parts are just starting to get drier, including the west coast north of Greymouth. But even so it is not worryingly dry. “And we have a lot of rain predicted to fall in coming days, including on the west coast. Overall, no one is complaining to us about the weather either through social media or through calls and this includes both holidaymakers and farmers.” In November Duncan cautioned farmers not to panic over predicted El Nino, which NIWA had tagged with an 80% likelihood of occurring between then and now. But with high soil moisture levels along the east coast and occasional

rain, conditions are a long way from what farmers would normally expect under El Nino. Duncan said there is a predominant chaos factor that influences much of NZ’s weather, thanks in part to being two small islands in a very big ocean. He predicts some useful localised rain over the coming week, particularly around the greater North Island, followed by a dominating high pressure system.

No one is complaining to us about the weather. Philip Duncan Weather Watch “After this run of high pressure systems to come it is possible in February there could be a change with a tropical cyclone running down the side of Australia that could impact us here, delivering some welcome wetter weather.” Duncan has urged farmers to keep an eye on conditions around Melbourne, Sydney and Hobart as a precursor for what they might get here, albeit with slightly reduced temperatures. “We are seeing those weather patterns echoed here, with Australia also having quite a chaotic pattern at present too.”

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GREAT GRASS: Wairarapa farmer Mike Warren, front, and tractor driver Ron Lett first tried cattle to keep on top of grass growth then bought a baler.

Grass surplus not wasted SOUTH Wairarapa drystock farmer Mike Warren has had to look to a mechanical mouth to help keep up with rampant grass growth on his 1200ha property. While working hard to control the grass quality on his steeper country by stocking it as high as possible he has been selectively baling up flatter country and now has the dilemma of where to store 540 wrapped bales, 150 hay bales and 50 bales. The property comprises 30% steep hill country and the rest flat to flatter. “This is such a turnaround from the same time last year. We were short before Christmas then and quit a

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third of our lambs as stores, which is unusual. This year we have had fantastic growth all the way really.” As owner of Turanganui Romney stud he is also happy to see strong lamb prices coinciding with the good growth. Farmers around the country have reported prices up to $115 a head on store lambs as buyers grapple with surging feed supplies. He has noticed over the hotter weather, however, lamb growth rates have been challenged. “But we have just had a really useful 35mm of rain this week and the temperature has dropped too so the grass

will start to shoot away again.” Clover levels are now high and the baler has been working hard harvesting pasture with relatively little stalk and high leaf content. “The baler has enabled us to go in and do some surgical strikes, a paddock here and paddock there to keep the quality up on the flats.” The only downside has been the numerous rocks also harvested along the way. “We must run out soon.” He has kept his cattle numbers, comprising 400 100kg calves, 520 yearlings and 300 two-year-olds that are about ready to go.

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NEWS

WEATHER OVERVIEW We have a west to southwest theme this week, which will bring much cooler-than-normal weather to parts of the South Island while it will boost temperatures in the east and northeast of New Zealand. Southland, Otago and the West Coast will be coolest this week thanks to occasional southwest winds from the Southern Ocean. The flip side will be warm west to northwest winds for many eastern and northeastern areas of the country so Canterbury has a lot of dry warm weather on the way and Hawke’s Bay will be closer to 30C this week at times. The West Coast has heavy rain again on Wednesday and there are showers for the North Island on Thursday.

8 Study on M bovis’ human impact

NZX PASTURE GROWTH INDEX – Next 15 days

Pasture Growth Index Above normal Near normal Below normal

7-DAY TRENDS

A study of the impact on farmers and their communities of Mycoplasma bovis comes with much relief to Rural Support Trust coach Sarah Barr.

Rain

Wind

This week kicks off with rain/showers to the West Coast, Southland and some into Otago. Wednesday night and Thursday a decaying front moves into the North Island and might (50/50) trigger rain around East Cape. Rain and showers for western NZ on Sunday.

Safety boost to pay dividends �� 11 Velvetleaf risk is elevated in maize �� 12

Newsmaker ��20 New Thinking ��21 Opinion ��22

This week kicks off with west to southwest winds that might swing a little northwest at times, especially in the eastern North Island. Winds fade away by Friday and the weekend to mostly calm but westerlies might return on Sunday.

Highlights/ Extremes

Temperature

ON FARM STORY

Much cooler than average at times this week in the lower half of the South Island and the West Coast. Average for the western side of the North Island, if not a little cooler than usual. Hottest in the east.

Cooler than normal, especially in Southland. Heavy rain on Wednesday for Fiordland then the West Coast.

14-DAY OUTLOOK

Positive weather for growth this week with temperatures above normal for many regions. Not all will have this warmth with the lower South Island (regions like Westland, Southland and Otago) receiving lower temperatures more like autumn or spring. Recent rain over the North Island will now couple with sunny, calm weather that will ensure a jump in pasture growth rates. A little more wet weather from a weakening front on Wednesday night and Thursday will help the North Island too.

SOIL MOISTURE INDEX – 18/01/2019

26 Stepping up to genetics plate Waikaretu Valley sheep and beef farmer Kate Broadbent is committed to improving the odds for New Zealand sheep farmers against natural hazards.

REGULARS Real Estate ��29-40 Employment ��41 Classifieds ��42 Livestock ��42-43 Markets ��44-48 GlobalHQ is a farming family owned business that donates 1% of advertising revenue to the Rural Support Trust. Thanks to our Farmers Weekly and Dairy Farmer advertisers this week: $766. Need help now? You can talk to someone who understands the pressures of farming by phoning your local Rural Support Trust on 0800 787 254.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

Ag education needs a dramatic overhaul Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz THE farming community is rallying to resurrect primary sector vocational training but concedes time is running out for many students who planned to train this year. Invercargill-based Southern Institute of Technology last week said it is doing due diligence on taking over education at Telford near Balclutha, which could preserve courses for this year. A similar outcome looks less likely for Taratahi’s Wairarapa campus but producer boards, Federated Farmers, Pamu, the Primary Sector Council and the Government are discussing developing a new vocational training model. Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor hopes a training facility can eventually be re-established on the Taratahi campus. “I hope we can have a training establishment based on Taratahi but it will be different. “Telford too needs to change to ensure it stays viable.” The Taratahi Agricultural Institute Board had no choice but to call in liquidators given its debt and concerns raised since 2014 about the business in several consultant’s reports and a Serious Fraud Office investigation, he said. “It is a sad outcome but it backs up the reality that this needs a dramatic overhaul and revamp to ensure we get a sustainable model.” Adding to Taratahi’s internal issues, O’Connor said the total number of people in agricultural training fell dramatically from 67,000 in 2013 to 49,000 in 2017. “Obviously, something has not been right for some time and the previous National Government

had its head in the sand.” It was likely Taratahi would have been required to refund the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) for under-enrolments this year, adding to the $10.4 million it already owed the commission and making any financial bailout for this year throwing good money after bad. Training structures adopted by other trade sectors could provide a blueprint for agriculture but it requires industry involvement that is more than just cash, O’Connor said.

Staff and students have been forgotten about. William Beetham Federated Farmers Wairarapa Federated Farmers president William Beetham said there is plenty of goodwill and an acceptance continued sub-degree training in some form is vital. The Government has told him Taratahi’s farm is secure from sale. While Beetham understands the liquidator has a process to follow, he describes the impact on staff and students as absolutely atrocious. “Staff and students have been forgotten about. “I can understand the Government and TEC want to restructure Taratahi but I can’t understand why they have forgotten about the staff and students.” Taratahi has more assets than liabilities so the TEC should have put it on notice but allowed

it to operate this year to provide staff and students with some certainty. The TEC estimates 750 current and potential students are affected by the liquidation, of which about 500 are due to complete their qualifications this year. Another 250 students were to start their studies this year. The TEC has been working with alternative educators that can offer students comparable programmes, which it has listed on its website. DairyNZ farm performance strategy and investment leader Jenny Jago said primary sector organisations are also assisting to ensure most Taratahi students can continue their education. Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s chief insight officer Jeremy Baker said there have been issues with primary sector education and training being dropped or cut back for the last decade. “The closure of Taratahi is just the latest indication that the system is not working for students or for industry. “We need to look at new ways of governing, planning and organising primary sector education and training if we are going to solve this issue. “It’s pretty clear this is a systemic issue, not something relating to a specific institution or programme.” A Pamu spokesman said there have been no formal approaches by the Government for Pamu to take over Taratahi’s training or farming operations. Jeff Farm vice-chairman Simon Glennie said the industry desperately needs a body to train young people in the fundamental skills of farming. Salvation Army owned Jeff Farm in South Otago trains a limited

WRONG DECISION: Taratahi has more assets than debts so should have been allowed to continue running this year, Wairarapa Federated Farmers chairman William Beetham says.

number of young people but also provides scholarships to Taratahi and Telford. Glennie says in his 10 years of involvement he has seen some young people with no farming

knowledge develop outstanding careers after being given an opportunity. “Without it these kids don’t get on the first rung of the ladder. We need a Taratahi and Telford.”

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

Feed surplus is good for winter Annette Scott annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz IT’S contractors’ heaven in Canterbury but the abundance of summer feed has not necessarily meant exciting times for farmers. “There is a good amount of feed around and we have to capture that and set up feed going forward,” Mid Canterbury Federated Farmers meat and fibre chairman David Acland said. But that feed store will likely be more than taken up given the hit winter feed crops took in the wet before Christmas. “There’s a bit of patching up of winter feed crop damage but the loss of winter feed crops is the only big negative really of the wet summer to date.” Acland said while feed is plentiful it’s the lack of sunshine that’s creating the challenge for farmers. “Lamb weights are back and while the works are battling to get lambs in it’s not that farmers are holding onto them unnecessarily,

they are just not ready to go.” Mt Somers Station had targeted 1500 lambs to the works at weaning but achieved only 800. “We weaned before Christmas in the rain, mud and wet and the lambs just didn’t do in the December weather and neither did the feed. “In the sunshine this week everything is looking a lot happier and hopefully with better weather for the second half of summer we will benefit a good turnaround. “It will be interesting in six weeks’ time to see how it plays out when lambs do become prime. Indicators are showing the market will hold up.” Acland acknowledged the confidence in the sheep industry, particularly in the store lamb markets driven largely by the grass market but he’s more excited about the longer term. “What they are paying for ewe lambs is a good indicator of a strong industry and very positive for the industry as a whole to build up flocks.

“For me that’s a highlight – the demand and the prices for ewe lambs. “The annual ewe fairs coming up at Temuka and Hawarden will be a very interesting indicator for the future.” In South Canterbury Miles Anderson said the wet, damp summer so far has been ideal for both grass and clover growth. “There’s plenty of feed. The challenge is for contractors is to get balage and silage in because it’s so wet.” Winter feed is also taking a hit. “If you did get it in before Christmas it’s struggled with wet feet, in many cases drowned right out. It’s either a feast or a famine but there is time for winter feed to come right if we get some sunshine days now and into February.” Anderson said most sheep and beef farmers are carrying more stock than usual as lambs, in particular, didn’t do well at all in the wet December. Lambs need the sun on their backs.

HIGHLIGHT: While acknowledging the buoyancy in the store lamb market David Acland, with wife Kate, says more of a highlight for the sheep industry is the prices being paid for ewe lambs.

“Thank God for the feed abundance now.” Cropping farmers are not having happy times getting into harvest. “There’s oodles of peas rotted and just being ploughed straight back into the ground. “It’s been hellishly wet, a really tricky season after it looked so good at the beginning of November.” One South Canterbury farmer said he could count on one hand the number of sunshine days his foothills farm has seen since early November. “Hopefully we will get a run of a few decent days into February. The lambs will grow and crops will come right,” Anderson said. On the West Coast it’s drying out. But Federated Farmers West Coast meat and wool chairman

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Bede O’Connor said farmers are keeping on top of things. “We had a great spring and early summer and here in the northern half of the coast everyone made their quota of supplementary feed and a bit extra before Christmas. “Pre-Christmas we had a really good period.” And that has been a blessing because the coast is now drying out. “We’ve had a surprising number of days with warm, strong winds and we are drying out, which is a bit unusual for the coast. “We do expect a dry period but it’s happening very quickly and even though we are getting some rain the evapotranspiration is unusually high. “But we are all in a good position and hopefully we will see regular rain again in the next three to four weeks,” O’Connor said.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

Summer feed volumes are surging Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz WAIKATO dairy farmers might yet have record production if this summer’s dream run continues. A year after parts of Hauraki District were swamped by floods the country’s largest dairying region is experiencing an almost idyllic run post-Christmas, with 15mm of timely rain early this week nudging grass growth along after a drier spell. Thanks to regular rain, good sunshine and careful pasture management most farms are experiencing a summer of both grass quantity and quality. Grass energy levels are about 10% up on last year, with monitor farms recording an average of 11mjME/kg drymatter, DairyNZ Waikato regional leader Wade Bell said. “And this fits pretty closely to what is being observed around the region in general.” Intensive silage making in the run-up to Christmas, during a month when the region experienced at least twice its monthly December rainfall, meant pastures maintained quality with highly grazable regrowth in the New Year. “This is unlike last year where we got a dump of rain in the New Year and grass all went to seed and poorer quality very quickly. “There is now a large quantity of good surplus around for autumn and into winter. And by and large crops are looking good

too. The maize crops have had near ideal conditions with good heat levels and moisture too.” With year-to-date production already 5% up on last year Bell is confident if the conditions continue the gap will open up even further in coming weeks. Sheep and beef farmers are also relishing the abundance of feed, with many grappling with summer surpluses not experienced for several years. Total Ag consultant and director Rob Macnab said the greatest challenge is finding sufficient mouths to harvest the surplus, with stock numbers thin on the ground. “It could be due to numbers having been dropped back over the years after some tough summers and simply not being built back up again. Otherwise there is certainly very little to complain about.” It is a similar story in Bay of Plenty though dairy farms have not been running as far ahead in production as their Waikato cousins. In December the region received up to three times its average rainfall. DairyNZ senior consulting officer Kevin McKinley said farms were slightly behind on their year-to-date production before Christmas. However, he expects some timely rain this week will nudge production figures ahead. Meantime, maize crops are experiencing rampant growth in near ideal conditions.

Feed quality issue in south Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz THE south of the South Island is awash with grass but as its quality rapidly declines there is concern the slow lamb killing season might create a bottleneck. Farm consultants say lambs are not putting on weight as expected because of the diminishing grass quality despite farmers holding back stock and trying to do so. Invercargill consultant Deane Carson of Agribusiness Consultants says normally by this time of the year his clients have killed 20% of their lambs but have so far only 12%, albeit at almost 0.5kg heavier, have been killed. “We’re way behind,” he said. A wet but productive spring was followed by a dry pinch around Christmas but then growth slowed and quality declined, prompting farmers to start topping paddocks to encourage quality. Dairy consultant Gordon Platfoot said the dry conditions around Christmas forced significant numbers of farmers to feed silage to bridge the feed gap but recent rain has enabled a recovery. The net result has been a seasonally-acceptable 10% drop in average milk flows from midDecember to mid-January. Farmers have made vast

volumes of supplements but the extreme weather means winter crops will be about average. Carson says the question now is when will the lamb kill catch up and will meat companies be able to handle the influx given staffing issues? If the catch-up kill is prolonged or starts too late ewes will start eating feed reserved for flushing or for winter. AbacusBio consultant Simon Glennie has reports of farmers paying higher than works’ prices for store stock to try to use surplus feed but they are still losing the quality battle. Regular and widespread rain means even traditionally summer-dry areas such as Central Otago are green with fresh grass, reducing sources of store stock. Glennie said the challenge is to try to retain pasture quality and he suggests splitting flocks based on condition scores and using the surplus feed to put condition on light ewes and using the heavier ewes to maintain pasture quality. “We need to get control now so when we reach autumn there will be some quality feed.” Parasites have not been a widespread problem yet but could be when grass length gets shorter but Glennie says porina grass grub survival is likely to be high and could cause problems.

RAMPANT: Grass is growing all over this year, feed supplier Bill Webb says.

Te Puke feed supplier Bill Webb has been inundated with offers to buy standing grass to bale up or turn into silage despite being unable to sell what he already has on hand. The summer’s feed supply is characterised by almost all areas reporting good grass growth. “Last year we came out of that

awful spring period with supply tight and then Taranaki went particularly dry. This year we are growing grass all over.” Baker Ag Manawatu farm adviser Gary Massicks said this season is marked by the uniformly high levels of feed growing throughout the country, creating an interesting situation for

anyone trying to offload surplus supplement. “Usually, you will find there is someone somewhere in need of supplement and someone there to sell it but this year that’s not the case.” Typically, lower North Island farmers would be selling supplement into traditionally drier parts of Taranaki but that has not been the case this year. “In fact, contractors are not even returning calls offering supplement this year.” This summer delivered conditions almost as close to perfect as nature create with ample warmth and sunshine matched by timely downpours. “We were just starting to think drier summer conditions were here in early January and then we get very timely rainfall in this second week of January and this has been throughout the lower North Island in general.” He took a call from one client who typically harvested 200 bales of silage only to be faced with 600 this season. The strong beef and sheep prices coinciding with good growing conditions were something of a sweet spot for his clients.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

Ewes thrive on lush pasture Alan Williams alan.williams@globalhq.co.nz CONDITIONS in the Scargill Valley area of North Canterbury are the best they’ve been in Chris Earl’s 30 years on the farm there and the ewes have never been in better order. After plenty of spring and summer rain conditions are awesome. “Because of the wet spring the

crops were a bit late going in but the barley looks promising and the kale and rape we’ve got in for summer feed are outstanding. Every time we’ve needed rain, it’s turned on.” The excellent ewe condition could provide a challenge in giving them the sought-after autumn lift going into mating. Most of 2017 and through last year were also favourable and rain has been regular and widespread

across North Canterbury while the severe drought of 2013 to 2016 is now a memory though with continuing impacts. Earl is short of the ideal number of ewes born in 2014 and 2015, that should be in their breeding prime now. “Normally we would have carried 700 to 800 replacements but because of the drought we did only 350 to 400 at that time and that’s leaving us short and that

Feed abundant in the dry north Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz A DRY January across northern and western regions of the North Island has followed an exceptional spring and early summer for pasture growth during which huge amounts of silage were made. NIWA daily climate maps show all the North Island except the central mountains and Mount Taranaki received less than 10mm of rain in the first half of January. Soil moisture deficits were minus 90mm and drier for Northland and Auckland, the East Coast, ManawatuRangitikei and coastal Taranaki. The lingering effects of wetter-than-normal conditions in November and December were apparent in the normal to extremely wet rainfall index everywhere in the country except northern Taranaki and southern King Country, West Coast, Buller and western parts of Southland. All those regions were classified as moderately to severely dry despite central North Island districts including Taranaki receiving good rainfall last week and West Coast getting

up to 100mm over the past fortnight. AgFirst Northland farm consultant Tafi Manjala, who also works for Beef + Lamb NZ, said all northern farmers had good feed levels though quality is being compromised by hot, dry weather. “Another good fall of rain and we will be back on track quickly. “Margins are probably the lowest they have been for four years because of the cattle purchase prices and that means less money for fertiliser, repairs and improvements. “A lot of silage and balage has been made and that will provide a buffer for a dry late summer and autumn but farmers will still be conservative with stocking rates and targets. “The maize crops are exceptional right now and even those with germination problems are not as bad as first feared.” Taranaki had very welcome rain varying between 50mm and 80mm early last week after three weeks of dry, windy weather that cut pasture growth rates from 60 to 30-40kg/ha/day dry matter. Dairy Trust Taranaki operations manager Debbie

McCullum said milk production on the four trust farms is 1020% ahead of last year. A large amount of fodder has been conserved and only small quantities of supplementary feeding have been necessary. B+LNZ central North Island extension manager Maria Shanks said regular rain and prodigious grass growth before Christmas followed by three weeks of dry weather posed challenges for pasture quality. “Let’s say there was a lot of unplanned, deferred grazing. “A little rain in the past few days will help recover that quality and the maize crops are excellent.” Total Ag farm consultant Aaron Baker, Kerikeri, said soils in the Far North have dried out quickly, especially volcanic soils. “Extreme soil moisture deficits on the Aupouri Peninsula resulted from low rainfall since Christmas in the absence of any northerly weather event. “Farmers still have standing feed and a lot of balage has been made. “They still have an ability to go for higher cattle weights, hopefully out-running the price schedule decline.”

might be the case through North Canterbury. “We’ve got plenty of hoggets and two-tooths and ewe lambs so that will sort itself out over time.” He thinks high livestock prices might be slowing the rebuilding of sheep and cattle numbers. There’s been a lot of hay and silage made over the summer though hay has been a challenge in getting the cutting and drying done before the next spell of rain. There will be plenty of supplementary feed on hand if there is a dry late summer and autumn and for winter. Earl is topping some pasture as it gets too high, adding up to more quantity than quality though he’s focusing on getting sheep and cattle to keep it to good levels. Drought is never far away in North Canterbury and he says that now through the latest severe dry years it will be good to have a couple of good years before the next one sets in. On the North Canterbury coast at Motunau, long-time farmer David Meares said no-one he had talked to could remember a season like this. “We’ve not had a growthy season like this one. It just keeps growing. It’s been astonishing.’’ Meares destocked in the drought years and is still relatively understocked with some grass going to waste. “You couldn’t have stocked up for a year like this.” Cattle and ewes are doing very well in the conditions but, ironically, many farmers have struggled to finish lambs to good weights. Lambs do better in drier conditions and can do well on the verge of drought, he said. There are a couple of issues to watch with fire risk if the long grass dries out during later summer and autumn and the possibility of later spring growth if the grass that is eaten down breaks down into a mulch on paddocks over the winter.

UNPRECEDENTED: Long-time Motunau farmer David Meares can’t remember a season as good as this one.

We’ve never had a growthy season like this one. It’s been astonishing. David Meares Farmer Marlborough has also had good rain and pasture growth, leaving sheep and cattle in excellent condition, the area’s Federated Farmers chairman Philip Neal said. “They’re almost doing too well.” The area can get very dry in hot summer winds and plenty of hay and silage has been taken in for supplementary feed later though, as in Canterbury, the consistent rain has caused issues in drying time before baling. “Traditionally, farmers have made sure they’ve got two years supply of hay in the shed and that will be the case this year.” A potential problem is fire risk as the high growth dries off. Farmers have learned the risk of this over the years and there are regular meetings with Civil Defence to organise handling problems.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

Study on M bovis’ human impact Annette Scott annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz A STUDY of the impact on farmers and their communities of Mycoplasma bovis comes with much relief to Rural Support Trust coach Sarah Barr. Otago University will study the emotional, social and psychological impacts of M bovis on southern farmers and farming communities. Its rural health department senior research fellow Dr Fiona Doolan-Noble will head the study alongside VetSouth Winton director Mark Bryan and medical anthropologist Associate Professor Chrys Jaye. Barr has been working with farmers and their communities in association with trust teams since day one of the cattle disease, first notified in New Zealand in July 2017. “I am so relieved to hear of this study. “Honestly, I believe the human toll has been thoroughly underplayed. “There are broken people out there, absolutely broken and it’s going to get worse,” Barr said. While M bovis was classed as an adverse event it was one where all control was removed from farmers.

RELIEVED: Rural Support Trust coach Sarah Barr believes the human toll of Mycoplasma bovis has been thoroughly underplayed. Photo: Annette Scott

“And yes, we can talk to those who have had M bovis but there’s a whole bunch of people affected in the flow-on and there’s so many of these overlooked.” Farmers and their families with M bovis are often stigmatised and feel a sense of shame. Many tend to become socially isolated and cut off from support. “Farmers are pretty honest and what we hear is what they are feeling. “It’s excruciating but we are not hearing it all from all those hurting – and it’s not just farmers,

it’s communities and flow-on businesses,” Barr said. “I am so thrilled to hear this study is going to happen. I just do hope MPI (Ministry for Primary Industries) will support it.” The disease spreads through herds and last year the Government introduced a programme to eradicate the disease by culling infected cattle. Doolan-Noble said the two-year study will look at the impact of the eradication programme on farmers directly and the wider community more generally.

It is hoped results will help to inform the Government and MPI on the management of the outbreak and aid in future decision-making in exotic disease responses. While there is some research on the logistical and economic impacts of exotic disease outbreaks in NZ, there’s no research looking at mental health and social impacts. “For the farmers themselves, one day their herd is there and the next morning they wake up and they’ve all gone. “That’s a huge loss on so many levels. “It’s an emotional loss, a sensory loss and a financial loss until compensation is received and they can start building up their herd again,” Doolan-Noble said. Others in rural communities from agricultural suppliers and small rural businesses to community groups are also affected. Studies from the 2001 foot and mouth outbreak in Britain show the outbreak was not just an animal tragedy but also a human one. Research there identified feelings of distress and bereavement, concerns of a new disaster, loss of faith in

authority and control systems and annoyance at the undermining of local knowledge. The outbreak was contained in seven months but M bovis is more difficult to control and might take years to eradicate.

It’s an emotional loss, a sensory loss and a financial loss. Dr Fiona Doolan-Noble Otago University “The fact that it could drag on for a long time introduces another complexity,” Doolan-Noble said. “Farming is at the core of many rural communities and when it takes a hit the whole community gets hit.” The study in Otago and Southland will start in April and is funded by a $120,000 Lotteries grant. The research team will work with multiple groups in the community and information will be collected via interviews, logs kept by participants and analysis of media coverage and social media sites.

Skim milk powder bounce surprises Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz SKIM milk powder prices on the Global Dairy Trade platform have risen 22% over four auctions in December and January, a major part of a dairy market lift of 11% overall. The GDT index rose 4.2% in the second fortnightly January auction, the best market gain

since January-February 2018. SMP prices were up 10% and whole milk powder, butter, anhydrous milk fat and cheddar all rose 3-4% compared with the first New Year auction. Westpac analyst Anne Boniface has increased her farmgate milk price forecast by 20c to $6.30/kg milksolids, now at the upper end of Fonterra’s guidance to dairy farmers. ASB analyst Nathan Penny said the improved

market outlook removed some of the downside risk to his forecast $6. Rabobank analyst Emma Higgins maintained her $6.25 forecast, revised downwards in mid-December, and laid emphasis on the best SMP prices for two years, now back over US$2400/ tonne. The European Union has all but sold its SMP intervention stocks that were depressing commodity prices, the analysts observed. “After two big tender clearances

in December and January buyers are looking to procure SMP while prices are still affordable,” Higgins said. Fonterra chief executive Miles Hurrell said the strong lift in market prices is a combination of Europe’s previous hot summer and slowing milk production, China’s demand for milk powders and the sell-down of the EU stockpile. Boniface said the SMP strength in the latest GDT auction was despite an increase in volume sold and the lift was

You’re the most important asset on your farm When you look after yourself, you’re looking after your farm too To check out what works for you and for help to ‘lock it in’, head to the Farmstrong website for farmer-to-farmer tips and advice on sleep, time out, thinking strategies, eating well, keeping farm fit and more.

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GETTING IN QUICK: Buyers are looking for skim milk powder while prices are still cheap, Rabobank dairy analyst Emma Higgins says.

across all contracts on offer. Buyers from China took 60% of the January GDT products sold, more than was average for this time of year. “It may be in part due to poor domestic milk production … but the apparent lift in demand comes when other data points to growth slowing sharply. “While we have expected the decline in dairy prices over the second half of 2018 to reverse, the speed and the extent of the improvement over the past month has exceeded our expectations.” The revised milk price of $6.30 contains an assumption auction prices will linger near present levels for the next few months, Boniface said. While there is momentum for them to go higher she is also wary about China’s demand for dairy products as growth cools in other areas. Penny said the 40% historical premium in prices between WMP and SMP has closed fast to be only 15% now. “This development is giving a timely boost to global dairy prices, going a long way to offset the downward pressure on prices from bumper NZ supply,” he said. The next GDT event will on Wednesday, February 6, delayed for 24 hours because of Waitangi Day. The three-week gap between events will pass nervously for dairy exporters and farmers waiting to see if the new-found strength in prices will persist.

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10 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

Hemp deal will spin green yarn Annette Scott annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz A NEW strategic partnership between New Zealand Yarn and Hemp NZ is set to be the catalyst for market-leading hemp fibre processing. It will lead development of innovative products developed from hemp yarn, wool and hemp blends and non-woven hemp products. NZ Yarn is owned by Carrfields Primary Wool (CPW) and independent investors including farmers, wool growers and others passionate about the wool industry and showcasing NZ wool yarn on a global scale. The only independent spinning operation in Australasia, NZ Yarn makes and markets high-quality, spun woollen yarns for the carpet industry and global soft flooring market. Hemp NZ is 100% NZ-owned by the Jordan and Draper families who grow hemp in five regions.

It grows, harvests and processes bulk hemp food products and industrial materials. Under the agreement, Hemp NZ has acquired a 15% interest in NZ Yarn with the objective of installing a hemp fibre processing facility in NZ Yarn’s Christchurch factory. NZ Yarn chairman Craig Carr said Hemp NZ’s investment is an important strategic milestone. The partnership will be a catalyst for market-leading innovations in hemp fibre processing as well as the development of new consumer products made from a blend of wool and hemp yarn. Carr said the hemp processing line, the first of its kind in NZ, will complement the whole natural fibres processing in NZ. “Hemp NZ’s investment strengthens and diversifies the NZ Yarn business. “It also enables NZ Yarn to engage in significant additional product innovation as well as

broadening its product portfolio and customer base with a natural fibre that has huge unrealised potential,” Carr said. “Hemp has many synergies with wool as well as sustainable, ethical provenance and environmental credentials. “These qualities are of critical importance given the environmental catastrophe which synthetic fibres are contributing to.” Carr said farmers will have more choice with an emerging powerful crop. “Farmers will not only harvest hemp for oil, food and seed they will now be able to extract value from the straw which will mean more value per hectare overall. “Hemp will be a very powerful crop going forward and it has huge environmental benefits.” Product innovation trials of the wool and hemp blended fibre have already got customers excited, Carr said. Hemp NZ chief executive

MORE VALUE: Farmers will not only harvest hemp for oil, food and seed they will now be able to extract value from the straw.

Dave Jordan said the company’s investment in NZ Yarn signifies a major step in the growth and development of the hemp industry. It will also enable Hemp NZ to set up a leading-edge, natural fibre processing line, which separates hemp stalks into fibre that can be woven and used in yarn systems and hurd, the woody core material that has fire retardant and insulating properties with many uses including in the construction industry. The processing line will enable Hemp NZ and NZ Yarn to jointly develop hemp and a combination of wool and hemp products for the consumer and industrial markets

both in NZ and overseas, Jordan said. “There are many, many consumer and industrial uses for both hemp fibre and hurd. “We’re extremely excited about partnering with NZ Yarn and initially developing hemp and wool yarn blends which will provide consumers with a wider variety of products made from natural fibres.” Hemp NZ will work with NZ Yarn to investigate other uses for the fibre and hurd, which provide an environmentally friendly alternative across a huge range of industries globally including consumer products, food and industrial applications.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

Safety boost to pay dividends A NEW $22 million injury prevention scheme for small and medium businesses aims to prevent workplace injuries. The ACC funding of $4.4m a year for five years will come in grants and subsidies which firms can apply for in February. “The subsidies are designed to support small and medium-sized businesses to invest in training, equipment or advisory services that will have a direct impact on the health and safety of workplaces,” ACC Minister Iain Lees-Galloway said. “This is particularly important for smaller businesses which haven’t previously been able to access this type of support because the barriers have been too high.” For example, the subsidy can be claimed by a small business to recover the cost of a health and safety training course for staff. Statistics New Zealand classes 97% of NZ businesses as small or medium and 13% of them are rural. ACC data shows there were 80,000 workrelated claims from them and 84,000 claims from large businesses last year. As well as providing subsidies the fund will provide grants to support innovation and research at an industry level. Federated Farmers president Katie Milne said the extra investment in workplace injury prevention will pay dividends not only in reducing pain and suffering but also in Tony Watson economic terms. “Most farms are in this small to medium business category and the minister is right when he says barriers to accessing such things as workplace capability development, professional health and safety consulting advice and capital investment in significant safety equipment are often too high, thus limiting uptake. “Long-term injury rehabilitation and loss of productivity from injury carry a high price tag alongside the pain, stress and grief for the individuals and their families,” Milne said. Five sectors have 52% of all severe workplace injuries – agriculture, forestry, construction, manufacturing and healthcare and social assistance. In the agriculture industry alone 15 people died at work last year – 12 of them as a result of quad bike or vehicle accidents, WorkSafe figures show. Historically, agriculture hasn’t had a structure and formal focus on health and safety. The plan of action has been in the farmer’s head, Milne said. “But progress is accelerating now and farmers recognise the injury and fatality statistics in their line of work are far too high.” The combination of health and safety challenges facing farm businesses is different to many other workplaces – weather, operating machinery over difficult terrain, working in isolated places, sometimes unpredictable animal behaviour. “More help, training programmes and safer equipment specific to our sector will protect farming families and their staff. “There’s a lot of work still to do to develop sector-specific safety initiatives and this new stream of grants and assistance will help.” A good example of an industry-specific workplace safety programme is Tahi Ngatahi, an on-line training programme launched last year to improve safety and reduce injuries to shearers and others in the wool industry. ACC helped the industry start it. The new money could help other, similar initiatives, Milne said. Agricultural Leaders Health and Safety Action Group general manager Tony Watson said more farmers are stepping up health and safety.

“There is a growing recognition among farmers that good health and safety management is good business practice. “Many farmers now accept this isn’t just about compliance or form-filling but about making health and safety a priority, identifying risks on their farms and communicating this to people who need to know.” And it appears to be working. Fewer farmers died last year than in any year since 2009 and in 2017 deaths were almost half of those of the previous four years. “The number of people injured on farms and needing more than a week off work is still way too high but also declining,” he said. Almost 550 farmers suffered injuries serious

enough to require at least a week off work last summer while there were three fatalities on farms. Vehicles and machinery loomed large among the causes. “However, when I speak to farmers, some of the health and safety risks on their farms aren’t always that obvious to them. “A lot of farmers have extensive on-farm experience but few have had proper health and safety training. Any effort to further this is bound to make a positive impact,” Watson said. ACC will have two funding rounds a year for the grants, in February and September, and three for subsidies, in February, June and September.

Katie Milne

News

12 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

Velvetleaf risk is elevated in maize Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz

VIGILANCE: Keeping mechanical gear clean is vital to limiting the spread of velvetleaf, Waikato Regional Council biosecurity pest plants team leader Darion Embling says.

MORE than two years since it was discovered in Waikato velvetleaf has spread further and maize contractors are being targeted to try to slow the spread of the insidious weed. The number of sites with the weed detected has leapt from 36 to 50 in the past year with the latest discovery only days ago in a maize crop near Cambridge, Waikato Regional Council biosecurity

2019 N Z

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pest plants team leader Darion Embling said. The weed was detected in Canterbury three years ago, its incursion linked to imported fodder beet seed. With its hardy seed and capacity for high seed production the plant is recognised as a major threat to arable crops and seeds can endure in the soil for longer than 50 years. “This latest discovery was outside the current distribution area and was linked to a dirty machine coming out of Pukekohe,” Embling said. “As soon as we found this out we knew who the contractor was and this was linked to another incursion last year.” With maize crops bolting ahead under perfect growing conditions and velvetleaf starting to flower, Embling urges contractors to ensure equipment is well cleaned between harvests of maize silage crops in coming weeks. “Plants will be starting to pod and the recent rain will encourage this. “The seed count in this weed is high at about 15,000-16,000 a plant in a mature maize field so even one plant can have a significant impact with seed that lasts a very long time.” Spray control for velvetleaf is virtually impossible once the plant is established. Farmer awareness of the weed varies but merchants and their field staff have a good handle on recognising and reporting the weed’s presence and Embling was encouraged by the latest incursion being recognised and reported by a farmer. “But we won’t really know until the end of the autumn just how well they have recognised the weed.” The council has made significant efforts to educate farmers about the weed’s appearance and significance and there are several research projects under way to better understand it and how to control it. “MPI has established a control plan with coordinators for the North and South Islands. It has stepped up for this and extended monitoring into the Auckland region too. The Sustainable Farming Fund and AgResearch have also built a big research programme around velvetleaf.” In the South Island it appears climate conditions might help in some areas to limit the weed’s spread, with coastal areas exhibiting slower spread than inland. Cropping consultant Mike Parker said key places to identify the weed are around headlands and gates where row widths are wider, encouraging more light and therefore weed growth. “It is too late now but it’s important to spray those areas post emergence early on. From here on in if its detected it has to be hand pulled and carefully bagged to avoid losing the seeds.” Embling said prevention of velvetleaf establishment is far better than treatment and keeping mechanical gear clean between crops is vital. “Once you have it, you have a lifetime sentence with it.”

ALERT: Farmers should now be on the lookout for mature velvetleaf.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

Invest in some time off the farm Getting off farm regularly is not just good for the farmer, it’s great for the farm. Waikato dairy farmer Marc Gascoigne explains how his downtime helps him meet his KPIs.

STAYING FRESH: Time away from the farm helps mental and physical health, and lets you see the farm with fresh eyes.

When you’re busy, the last thing you often feel like doing is socialising with people but that’s when it’s really important to take up those invitations and get out there. Marc Gascoigne Farmer Farming people go through similar experiences and you can often help each other with ideas. If you don’t want to talk to farming mates about issues you’re facing, that’s where Rural Support Trust (0800 787 254) comes in. We’re rural people helping rural people in all sorts of situations.” Gascoigne says despite the convenience of smartphones there’s no substitute for

Inexpensive getaways for farmers – Gascoigne’s top tips • Walk up to the Pinnacles Hut in Coromandel and stay overnight in the excellent DOC hut up there. It’s a great three-hour walk and a fantastic view from the top of the Pinnacles. Great to do with the kids. Some awesome swimming holes in the Kauaeranga River to cool off after walking back down the next day. • Bike from Colville on the Coromandel Peninsula up the coast to Port Jackson and stay in the DOC backpacker’s lodge at Fletcher Bay. Carry on the next day along the Coromandel Walkway to Stony Bay and continue past Port Charles and back to Colville. It’s 36 km each day, but has some big hills to conquer after Stony Bay. It’s a spectacular part of the country. • There are also some great bike trails in the greater Waikato with more opening up all the time. Waikato River Trails, Hauraki Rail Trail and the Great Lake Trail near Taupo are some examples and offer rides for all abilities. You can do single-day or multi-day trips. • Day trips – the Wairere Falls near Matamata are well worth checking out. The view from the top is up high in the Kaimai ranges overlooking Waikato. Feel like a hot springs swim near Rotorua? Jump in at Kerosene Creek and have a soak for free. You can also check out the mud pools on the road into Wai-o-tapu – they are pretty impressive and won’t cost you anything either.

regular face-to-face catch-ups with neighbours. “If people are going through tough times they often won’t let on until you have a proper catch up. Last year, I asked one guy how he was going and he said ‘pretty good, not too bad.’ And I opened up a bit and said ‘it’s been bloody tough on our place actually’ and that opened it up for him and he said, ‘Well, now that you mention it …’ and he went through a whole lot of issues he had on his farm. It’s great to talk about that stuff. It helps you realise you are not in it alone.” Getting time off farm has become part of the business plan for Gascoigne and his partner Maria. “This time of year, it’s really important to get off farm I reckon. When you’re busy, the last thing you often feel like doing is socialising with people, but that’s when it’s really important to take up those invitations and get out there. Don’t just sit at home and stew. You’ll come back to your own farm with fresh eyes.” Gascoigne says getting enough rest and recovery time is a big issue for farmers. He recommends they explore relief milking or farmsitting options with friends and neighbours in their region. “Quite a few of the call outs I get for Rural Support Trust are for people who struggle to get off farm. When I was younger starting out in farming I’d think about how much it was going to cost to get a relief milker for the weekend. So I wouldn’t take a weekend off. “After my health suffered, I decided relief milking was my number one priority. It’s so important not to think of it as a cost, but an investment in your business. If it costs you

$300 for a weekend off, you’ll save a lot more by making better decisions and farming smarter because you’re not run down. That weekend off is your chance to catch up on sleep, to get out and socialise and get away from the farm stuff. It gives you more energy when you’re working. “When I started farming one weekend off a month was standard and you were lucky to get two weeks’ holiday, but things are changing a lot and they need to. Farming can be the same thing day after day if you’re not careful, so having a holiday or weekend off to look forward to, really brightens you up. It doesn’t have to be expensive. We head off on bike rides or walks and stay in DOC huts for about $30 a night.” Gascoigne admits when he first started taking more time off, he used to worry about what was happening on-farm. “If I was away at calving time I’d be looking at the rain radar all the time because I knew I could relax more if it was going to be a good weekend on-farm. But even though that was at the back of my mind, I still made sure I got away.” He’s convinced it’s helped to create a more sustainable and enjoyable business. “In farming there are all sorts of KPIs, but you’ve got to have a balance too. It’s not all about KPIs. “It’s about wellness and enjoying what you’re doing and living life as well. There’s no point having the highest surplus if you’re a miserable bugger and dead tired all the time. “I’m prepared to forgo some of that profitability to live life well. It’s about getting that balance.” is the official media partner of Farmstrong

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AFTER a couple of crap springs and average returns, Marc Gascoigne’s enjoyed a good one. Production’s up 8% this season. He’s used to ups and downs of farming and more besides – a few years ago he hit the wall with burnout. Now he works with the Rural Support Trust helping others. These days Gascoigne says no matter what the weather, the markets or life throws at him, he’s in a much better place to cope. He’s locked in Farmstrong’s Big 5 ways to wellbeing – connecting with others, staying active, learning, giving back to community and enjoying the simple things in life. These have made him more resilient. “Why should farmers care about the Big 5? Because that’s the stuff that keeps you physically and mentally healthy. It keeps you sane,” he laughs. Gascoigne reckons he ticks off three of the Big 5 every time he climbs on his bike at the Te Awamutu Cycling Club. “Cycling’s a big part of my socialising. I’m getting the exercise, I’m connecting with people meeting up for rides and I’m serving others, because I’m president of the club. When you’re giving to others like that it makes you feel a hell of a lot better yourself. “You’re often isolated on a farm. So if something’s gnawing away at you and you’re working by yourself all day, it can fester in your head. The more socialising and talking to people you can do the better. There’s also support on the work front. “I’ve also got two or three farming mates that I keep in regular contact with. It’s vital to keep those connections up and have a regular yarn, especially if you’re going through a tough period.

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Before you do any burning off this summer, go to www.checkitsalright.nz or search “fire permit” for the latest fire season status in your area and, if needed, apply for a fire permit.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

Benefactors’ hopes are dashed For 99 years graduates of Taratahi Agricultural Training Centre and, for 54 years, from Telford in south Otago have worked on and progressed to owning farms. But all of that potentially came to an end before Christmas when a liquidator was appointed to resolve financial problems with the business. Neal Wallace profiles Taratahi.

WHAT NEXT? How will future agricultural career aspirants be trained now the future of Taratahi, and with it Telford, is unclear. Seamus Murnane was one of the students who beneifitted from training in 2015.

It owns 42,000 stock units of sheep, beef and deer and milks 1000 cows. According to the 2017 annual report total revenue was $23m, $5m more than in 2016, with the Tertiary Education Commission providing $10m compared to $8m a year earlier. Farm revenue was $7.6m against $12m in 2016.

At the end of 2017 the Taratahi board said it was a viable, going concern.

Expenses for the year were $25m, up from $18m in 2016, but higher livestock values and a $7.7m asset gain on the Telford acquisition saw a net surplus for the year of $7.2m compared to a $384,000 loss a year earlier. At the end of 2017 the Taratahi board said it was a viable, going concern based on the support of its bankers, achieving budgeted forecasts and cost reductions, becoming a national sub-degree training provider with the acquisition of Telford, meeting bank cashflow guidelines, diversifying revenue streams, support from stakeholders and the TEC recognising the primary sector as a focus for 2019-20. Taratahi has an extensive partnership network working in conjunction with the Manukau Institute of Technology, a dairy partnership with Theland Farm Group in Taupo, Wintec in Waikato-Bay of Plenty, Eastern Institute of Technology in Hawke’s Bay and Invercargill-based Southern Institute of Technology. Its board has representatives

of the Wairarapa branch of Federated Farmers, Wairarapa Agricultural and Pastoral Society, Masterton Agricultural and Pastoral Society, Ministry for Primary Industries, Primary ITO and the Minister of Tertiary Education. The courses offered cover basic livestock farming, apiculture, equine, school programmes, farming systems, the NZ Certificate in Agriculture, agriculture diplomas from Massey and Lincoln, agribusiness management diplomas and primary industry foundation skills. In recent years it has been buffeted by numerous squalls. In January 2015 the former chief executive died suddenly and was replaced by an interim chief executive before Arthur Graves was appointed in 2016. An audit requested by TEC of the 2014 year found irregularities in the delivery of primarily the level 3 Certificate in General Farm Skills, requiring Taratahi to refund $4m to the TEC, a debt that would plague it in coming years. Subsequent monitoring by the NZ Qualifications Authority did not identify any issues with its delivery of courses but in 2018 Taratahi was unable to recruit the number of students for which it received funding and again had to refund the TEC, this time $6.5m. The NZQA in 2017 noted a major change strategy was implemented in April 2016 to address gaps previously identified and various structures, roles

and procedures established or modified to address the matters. The changes included reviewing its curriculum early last year and forming three sub-committees to better govern business planning, risk and education and an overhaul and modernisation of financial systems. The NZQA noted the changes appeared substantive, broad and well considered. Like other educational institutions, Taratahi has been squeezed by declining student numbers as fewer young people seek careers in agriculture. Following the 2017 addition of Telford there were about 150 full time equivalent staff and more than 1330 students or 582 effective full-time students, well down on the peak of 1200 efts in 2015.

The TEC estimates about 750 current and potential tertiary students are affected by Taratahi’s collapse. Of them, about 500 are yet to complete qualifications and are due to finish this year. There are about 250 students signed up to start their studies this year. Taratahi was also addressing that decline by launching a programme to engage with school leavers, people in urban centres, Maori and Pasifika and collaborating with partners. But late last year that restructuring and planning counted for little as attempts to seek concessions from the TEC to tide it over were rejected as too little, leaving the board with no option but to call in the liquidators.

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THE Taratahi and Telford farm training campuses have similar origins. The formation of the not-forprofit private vocational farm training educators was made possible through generous bequests of land and industry and community support. In 1918 Sir William Perry gave his Wairarapa farm to the Government to provide a training ground for servicemen returning from World War I. The first intake in 1919 was of 60 men who received practical farm training. After World War II it was again used to rehabilitate returning servicemen but in 1951 the farm trustees enlarged their activities and targeted the training of young people aged 16 to 20. Similarly, the descendants of William Telford, who began farming in south Otago in 1867, gave the property to the Telford Farm Training Institute in 1964 for training young people wanting a career in agriculture. The 670ha commercial dairy, sheep, beef and deer farm is held in trust by the Telford Farm Board. For Telford’s first 10 years it ran without any government aid but in 1974 entered a partnership with the then Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry in which MAF delivered the education. In 1989 the Ministry of Education replaced MAF as a partner and in 1991 it became a polytechnic before the 2011 takeover by Lincoln University. Lincoln viewed the investment as encouraging graduating subdegree students to continue their education at Lincoln. It was never a comfortable relationship and in December 2016 as Lincoln addressed its own financial issues it made 17 Telford staff redundant. In mid 2017 Lincoln divested the campus to Taratahi for $1 but the transaction included Lincoln making a $2 million payment to Taratahi. Both Taratahi and Telford have their own acts of Parliament that give them some independent governance from the Ministry of Education. The enlarged Taratahi now owns two farms, leases six, has formal management contracts for three others and formal access arrangements to more than 200 other properties.

News

18 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

Organics’ national standard just a start Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz

SLOW: New Zealand is well behind other countries in setting organics standards and risks losing markets, former Organics Aotearoa chief executive Brendan Hoare says.

A NATIONAL standard for New Zealand’s organic sector is welcome but is also only just in time as the rest of the world moves on to even higher organic standards, former Organics Aotearoa chief executive Brendan Hoare says. It took five years and three ministers to get to the point where a law will be passed. “This has been something very close to my heart and it is great to see that logic has finally prevailed across all parties,” Hoare, who has yet to be replaced, said. NZ is one of only two of the top 25 organic markets in the world to have voluntary rather than compulsory standards. For the first time in NZ’s agricultural history it will, when the law is passed this year, have a national standard for a primary production sector.

Many countries are now in phase two of organics, looking hard at pesticide reduction in particular. Brendan Hoare The regulatory standard is a stick in the ground, from which more far-reaching standards can extend. “First and foremost this is a production and retail standard but it’s just the beginning of the discussion,” Hoare said. Many of NZ’s main markets expect a standard expected and also want low carbon, recyclable packaging, soil health standards and even have expectations around how staff are treated. “The next level is regenerative organic certification. “It’s a more holistic process that includes animal welfare, fair treatment of growers and robust requirements for soil health and land management.” Work by the likes of the Rodale Institute argues changes to regenerative organic agricultural methods would generate soil carbon levels sufficient to help keep global warming under 1.5C. NZ has come dangerously close to losing credibility in the five years it has taken to get the standard this far and risks being

even further behind by the time it is actually in place. “Many countries are now in phase two of organics, looking hard at pesticide reduction in particular. “NZ has really only just got our L plates on when we get the national standard passed.” Taiwan now has an integrated organic supply chain with 14 special organic farming districts supplying almost half a million school students with meals made using organic vegetables and is integrating organic supply into its military forces. Hoare urges the sector not to rest on the success of getting the base regulation over the line and to move quickly to catch up with the rest of the world. “I know there are countries out there that will require these phase two standards, otherwise they will not allow our products in, so we need to move quickly.” The scope of regulations will have to be defined once the standard becomes law. “Of course it will include food and beverage but will it also include cosmetics, aquaculture, honey? This remains to be determined.” The concept of true-cost accounting where the full costs and benefits of different food and farming systems are identified and costed into the true production cost for farmers is also being considered by some organisations and countries. “It is work that involves a debtors’ ledger for food production and determining who you send the bill to.” Hoare said the concept is a valuable way to better inform consumers about organic standards and highlight organic benefits over conventional production systems. The latest NZ organic market report said the organic sector has grown by 30% since 2015 and is now worth $600 million a year, boosted by both overseas and domestic demand. And 80% of NZ consumers buy fresh, frozen or packaged organic products at least once a fortnight and just under half do so based on concern for the environment. Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor said a national standard for organic production gives consumers confidence in organic claims and businesses certainty to invest and innovate in the growing sector.

News

farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

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Dairy farms sales picking up this year Alan Williams alan.williams@globalhq.co.nz SEVERAL good-price dairy farm sales have been recorded in Waikato and the number of new listings is expected to result in reasonable activity to year-end and in the new year. The stronger sales figures remain in the tier one properties, Real Estate Institute rural spokesman Brian Peacocke said. Second and third-tier farms are still difficult to sell because of a lack of buyers in that part of the market.

Activity is selective with good farms selling with just a bit of easing in price. Brian Peacocke Real Estate Institute “Activity is selective with good farms selling with just a bit of easing in price.” An emerging trend is corporate interest in dairy farms, usually involving people already with substantial interests in the South Island. But that is not influencing the market yet, Peacocke said. The best prices are being achieved in eastern Waikato, in prime areas such as Matamata and Morrinsville. Sales noted by the institute include a 135ha Matamata farm sold for $8.5 million, equalling $63,000/ ha. A 96ha farm midway between

Hamilton and Te Awamutu sold well at $5m, a $52,000/ha rate. A 78ha Tatua supply farm near Morrinsville sold at $7.2m, a very big price that also covered Tatua shares and supply entitlements. Tatua farms always test the limits, Peacocke said. Good sales his own firm, Pastoral Realty, has been involved in include a 68ha property at Otorohanga for $3.35m ($49,000/ha) and a very good 65ha support block at Te Awamutu at $3.22m ($50,000/ha). Another Waikato farm of 120ha sold after auction at $5.7m. Highlighting the price gap between vendors and buyers in the second-tier category, a 135ha effective dairy unit between Cambridge and Morrinsville was passed-in at $5.8m ($43,000/ha). PGG Wrightson reported the sale of a dairy farm on the outskirts Cambridge for $9m, a whopping $90,000/ha price. However, besides being very close to town, the farm has potential for sand quarrying and horticulture, agent Martin Lee said. The buyer, a local with interests including horticulture, is understood to be planning to develop those uses while also continuing with dairying. The under-bidder came from the horse racing industry. The institute’s latest figures, for the three-months to the end of October, indicate a 28% year-on-year fall in the median dairy farm price and a 16% fall in the dairy farm price index. That is a national figure but Peacocke said the latest Waikato sales won’t be at that level. He believes November data will show a slight improvement on those numbers.

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20 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

EAT UP: A growing trend is for people to eat more fruit and vegetables as they learn about the health benefits, new Horticulture New Zealand leader Barry O’Neil says.

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Exciting time for growers

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As consumers around the world queue up for more fruit and vegetables in their quest for healthier diets Kiwi growers are faced with the challenges of a labour shortage, questions over access to land and water and retaining their licence to grow before they can boost output. Luke Chivers spoke to new Horticulture New Zealand president and chairman Barry O’Neil about the future.

AWDT Understanding Your Farming Business & Wahine Maia, Wahine Whenua 3 full-day workshops and an evening graduation ceremony run over four months. Equips and supports women involved in sheep and beef farming to lift business performance. Registrations for 2019 programmes are now open, visit the website for more information and to register. Locations and dates (3 modules & graduation): Whangamomona: 4 Feb, 6 Mar, 3 Apr & 1 May Whanganui: 5 Feb, 7 Mar, 4 Apr & 2 May Mt.Bruce: 13 Feb, 13 Mar, 10 Apr & 8 May Omarama: 20 Feb, 20 Mar, 17 Apr & 15 May Waimate: 21 Feb, 21 Mar, 18 Apr & 16 May Paparoa (Northland): 20 Feb, 20 Mar, 17 Apr & 15 May Kaikohe (WMWW): 21 Feb, 21 Mar, 18 Apr & 16 May Millers Flat: 27 Feb, 27 Mar, 23 Apr & 22 May Gisborne (WMWW): 27 Feb, 27 Mar, 23 Apr & 22 May Wairoa: 28 Feb, 28 Mar, 24 Apr & 23 May

RMPP Action Network – Facilitator training courses For rural professionals or farmers looking to run an Action Group under RMPP Action Network. No course fees. Register at www.actionnetwork.co.nz/page/training Lead Facilitator workshops 2019 course dates: 22 & 23 January – Christchurch 13 & 14 February – Palmerston North 5 & 6 March – Hamilton 21 & 22 March – Dunedin RMPP Action Network Fundamentals and Extension Design (two-day workshop) 2019 course dates: 12 & 13 February – Gore 26 & 27 February – Christchurch 27 & 28 March – Palmerston North Should your important event be listed here? Phone 0800 85 25 80 or email adcopy@globalhq.co.nz

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EW Horticulture New Zealand president and chairman Barry O’Neil says he is taking over at an exciting time for the sector. He replaces Nelson grower and dairy farmer Julian Raine who has stood down to pursue other business interests. O’Neil has been a grower since 1984, owning kiwifruit and avocado orchards at Whakamarama and since 2003 has been growing kiwifruit at Katikati. He has also held a number of government roles including trade counsellor to the European Union and chief veterinary officer for the Ministry of Agriculture. He was chief executive of Kiwifruit Vine Health for six years, driving the industry recovery from Psa, and has held board positions including being deputy chairman of Scion, chairman of Tomatoes NZ and chairman of the kauri dieback review panel. O’Neil has been an independent director on the Hort NZ board since April 2015 but with his appointment as chairman he will stand for a grower-

elected seat next year. He is optimistic about the future of the sector. “These are exciting times for NZ horticulture. “Local and international consumers are increasingly interested in the origin of their food and looking for responsible and sustainable farming practices.

A key concern for growers is a shortage in labour, access to land and water and retaining our licence to grow. Barry O’Neil Hort NZ “We’re able to provide that.” He is encouraged to see the Government taking action for the betterment of the environment. “The Government sees the potential in horticulture growth and has been responsive to protecting the best growing soils and

working with industry on environmental concerns. “Sustainability is the way forward. “The more people know about the health benefits of fruit and vegetables the more they will consume. It is a trend we’re seeing grow. “I am excited about working with growers to find a better future – for both us and our grandchildren.” But while horticulture is having its day in the sun it is not short of challenges. “A key concern for growers is a shortage in labour, access to land and water and retaining our licence to grow. “These are a key focus of mine.” They are challenges O’Neil is well-equipped to manage, outgoing president Julian Raine said. “O’Neil has an impressive background and is well placed to lead the extraordinary growth in horticulture. “This has been a fantastic, interesting, challenging and rewarding leadership role for me and I know it will be the same for Barry. I want to thank the industry and all our stakeholders for the support they have shown me.” O’Neil acknowledged

Raine’s longstanding contribution. “Julian’s mark has been significant. “He’s been highly engaged and led the industry through some of its toughest challenges. He can be really proud of his efforts.” Meanwhile, grower representative on the HortNZ board Bernadine Guilleux was elected vice-president. She has a strong marketing background in New Zealand and Europe and will use those skills to help tell NZ’s unique horticulture story. She is a member of the Balle family and grew up in the vegetable growing area of Pukekohe. Both positions are effective from January 1.

Contribution HORTICULTURE is New Zealand’s fourth largest export industry and contributes $5.68 billion to the economy. Statistics show horticulture’s growth retains momentum with a 7% rise in export earnings since 2016, with tariffs on exported produce down by 12% since 2012.

New thinking

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

App detects and predicts pests Predicting which pests are most likely to make New Zealand their next home and when they might arrive has been a key driver for researchers building technology to foresee incursions. Richard Rennie spoke to Scion postdoctoral fellow Rebecca Turner on her work combining mathematical modelling with insect incursion data to stay one step ahead of our next biosecurity headache.

N A world first New Zealand is setting a new standard in biosecurity detection methods by combining mathematical modelling with real time insect interception data, all linked into a smart phone app to enable all New Zealanders to become biosecurity officers. Funding for the project is coming from the Biological Heritage National Science Challenge, regional councils, Biosecurity NZ and the forestry and kiwifruit industries. Scion post-doctoral fellow Rebecca Turner’s work is founded on clearly defining the three levels of biosecurity threat invading insects pose from an interception to an incursion to the worst case of pest establishment.

Over that 10 years they have identified almost 400 of the 1500 established new insects. Every month they detect a few more. Rebecca Turner Scion

“An interception may be when a pest is detected in a shipment, as we had last year, with marmorated stink bugs on ships with imported cars destined for NZ but the ships were turned away before they arrived.” An incursion is when a pest makes landfall but might not necessarily establish. Establishment describes a pest that has made NZ home, reproducing and multiplying in conditions favourable to its population. Since the early 1900s the country has become home for about 1500 new insects, some which are pests, with detection rates varying year by year. With the three data types collected the information becomes the raw input for modelling to predict the likelihood of future threats from specific pests. The beta stage of a smartphone app aims to link sightings, data and modelled predictions together and is in trial use with the kiwifruit and forestry sectors. “The app is loaded with the pests specific to that sector. “But if you were to see something you were not certain about you can take a photo and upload it to the app.” It is then scrutinised by industry specialists and citizen scientists with strong naturalist skills. “They can determine what it is and how much of a threat it is and

elevate any threat to Biosecurity NZ officials.” The citizen scientist group iNaturalist NZ has been active for 10 years and is demonstrating a resounding strike rate in evaluating pests. “Over that 10 years they have identified almost 400 of the 1500 established new insects. Every month they detect a few more.” The work includes using overseas data, particularly from the United States with its long history of biosecurity data collection and it is exhibiting useful correlations with pest appearances in NZ. “There is a slight difference in the composition of the trade sources between countries but, overall, the insects arriving are similar.” One example are bark beetle pests that keep foresters awake at night with their ability to kill otherwise healthy pine trees. Some species are considered the most serious insect pests to conifer forests in the northern hemisphere. The researchers have found their arrival in NZ is positively correlated with the numbers arriving in the US. To help the accuracy of the modelling the researchers are also combining non-pest sources, including climate data. “While a pest may be detected as an interception there is no guarantee that it will become established if the climatic conditions are not suitable. Having that data included enables us to estimate a probability for its establishment.” In future the predictive ability could also help determine the likelihood of pests in northern provinces of NZ spreading south as conditions become more hospitable within NZ borders. The wider application of the work clearly excites Turner and her colleagues, with applications of the app extending to helping identify diseases and conditions alongside invertebrate pests. Turner also works with Canterbury University’s mathematics department and was seconded in the early stages of the Mycoplasma bovis outbreak to bring a quantitative data perspective to the outbreak’s analysis. Scion has already developed a myrtle rust reporter app as part of a BioHeritage Challenge project. One of the researcher’s ultimate goals is to make the general reporter app available to the public later this year. In that respect it fits with the Government’s Ko Tatou-This is Us campaign, aimed to encourage all New Zealanders to take responsibility for helping protect NZ from pests and diseases.

ALMOST THERE: Scientist Rebecca Turner’s app to detect and predict pest incursions is being tested by the forestry and kiwifruit sectors and should be available to anyone to use later this year. Photo: Dave Alexander

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Opinion

22 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

EDITORIAL

Taratahi jam unbelievable

T SEEMS inconceivable the Taratahi Institute of Agriculture was put in liquidation. The 2014 Future Capabilities report for the Ministry for Primary Industries predicted that by 2025 the primary sector will need an extra 33,000 employees. However, should the goal of doubling primary export returns by 2025 succeed, the total number working in the sector will swell from 350,000 in 2012 to 403,000 in 2025. Taratahi ticks all the right boxes by providing vocational training for young people and, significantly, the Tertiary Education Commission has made primary sector training a focus for 2019-20. The model for primary sector vocational training is broken, evident by three institutions being bailed out last year. Taratahi has legacy issues but a central plank supplying those required workers has now been killed off without a back-up plan. It also has challenges from reduced student numbers and debt but, equally, it is struggling from a funding model that does not acknowledge primary sector training is more expensive than other vocational training. It is still unclear why Taratahi’s proposed rescue package of land sales, cost cutting, restructuring, a debt holiday and a $6 million cash injection was rejected, leading to speculation that being a private training entity – albeit not for profit – Taratahi did not fit the Government’s preferred education model. Taratahi has some independence with its own governance and act of Parliament. The Government is in the process of significantly restructuring the sector and there is a view the Education Ministry wants the same control over Taratahi that it has over other vocational training institutions. Understandably, a business liquidation must follow a legal process but the Government had some wriggle room. It is fixing a flawed funding model and Taratahi has committed to make changes so the Government could have propped up the training provider and put it on notice. The 750 current and potential students, 250 staff and an industry crying out for workers deserve more than to be told five days before Christmas the business is going in to liquidation.

Neal Wallace

LETTERS

Washed, smart and in the know ALAN Emerson’s awards (FW, January 14) featured a bouquet to Otago Federated Farmers for throwing a brickbat at anyone opposed to 1080 as “unwashed, unshaven, and shabbily dressed”. I can assure Emerson I am unshaven, growing a trimmed beard for sun protection (sensible) but I wash regularly and I am generally well dressed, even outdoors. I am a retiree and during my career was involved in the Forest Service with the first 1080 trials on fallow deer in the Caples Valley, Wakatipu. I then spent later years in some pest control work in Marlborough that involved 1080 so I probably have a better understanding of the toxin than Emerson. I came to understand 1080 is a broad-spectrum poison

killing invertebrates, insects, birds and animals. Farmers’ stock have been killed with it. I can assure Emerson many of the genuine 1080 opposition involves people with degrees, male and female, professional people and tradesmen and farmers – most clean, shaved and well dressed. Is he aware of the organisation Farmers Against Ten Eighty (FATE)? If not he needs to do some homework. He might find 1080 was developed as an insecticide. It still kills insects vital to the food chain and ecosystem for their pollination and other functions. It is an ecosystem poison. If he digs deeper he will find evidence two retired United States scientists, the Whiting-O’Keefes, now in New Zealand, analysed the Conservation Department’s paid, commissioned science

supporting 1080 and found it woefully inadequate. Dig deeper and he will find in 2016 Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy told Parliament of 9830 possums autopsied not one had Tb. He will find aerial 1080 stimulates rat explosions in that 20% surviving rats with a better food supply mushroom to be three to four times original numbers. I frequent the outdoors. In my earlier years as a deerstalker and now as an amateur wildlife observer. I abhor cruelty to animals and birds and any creature eliminated for no sound reason but to keep bureaucrats well paid and cushioned. Has Emerson a lifetime of wilderness experience? Of special interest to farmers is that NZ has been a victim of a big bureaucratic

hoax over bovine Tb. The world standard for a country to declare Tb-free is 0.2% for Tb infected herds and 0.1% for infected cattle. NZ rates of Tb infection in cattle are slight at about 0.0019% average over the last nine years. It is so far below world standards required for a Tbfree declaration NZ must be one of the world’s most Tb-free countries. Yet OSPRI continues to take money from farmers for levies on cattle and from taxpayers for NZ to be Tb free. Emerson might be aware the SPCA is strongly opposed to use of the poisons he so happily champions. I wonder how many of their staff are unshaven, unwashed and shabbily dressed. Laurie Collins Hector

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Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

Plenty on meat body’s plate Andrew Morrison

HE busy pace of 2018 looks set to continue in 2019 with a number of important initiatives in the pipeline and policy issues likely to be decided by Beef + Lamb New Zealand. Our Taste Pure Nature origin brand is set to launch in California this quarter, targeting a key consumer group our research has identified who we’ve dubbed the conscious foodies. These conscious foodies are people who care about the provenance of the food they eat. They want to know it’s been raised or grown in an environmentally sustainable and ethical way just as much as they want to know it’s a healthy choice for them. They’re adventurous in their cooking and are willing to pay a premium for the food they eat. However, when you ask overseas consumers about their knowledge of NZ they don’t know much about our farming systems and that means they don’t automatically associate our red meat products with the attributes they’re looking for. Taste Pure Nature will help bridge that gap. Developed in consultation with processors, Taste Pure Nature taps into the market of about 40 million consumers by helping leverage the natural advantage NZ has with its pasture-based, extensive farming systems. The values of these relatively affluent consumers align perfectly with the way we farm and fit in well with wider perceptions of NZ. The launch of Taste Pure Nature in the United States is just the start with work under way to create a broader strategy for realising the opportunities for NZ red meat in China and how Taste Pure Nature fits into that. Alongside that work we’re also doing research in Shanghai to better understand our target market in China ahead of launching there. Underpinning that is the NZ Farm Assurance Programme (NZFAP), which will tell the

The

Pulpit BUSY YEAR: Beef + Lamb New Zealand chairman Andrew Morrison expects several crucial farming issues to be decided this year.

conscious foodies the NZ red meat they’re enjoying has been raised in a way that is consistent with their values. Having these robust standards means when our consumers rightfully want to look under the hood to find out more about how their food is produced we can be confident in our product. Only NZFAP assured product will be able to use the Taste Pure Nature brand so processors will be looking for more farmers to join NZFAP as Taste Pure Nature gains traction. We’re continuing to work on implementing our environment strategy and supporting farmers to improve their environmental performance. Much of our focus this year will be around issues like climate change and water quality with groups like catchment communities and projects such as the One Billion Trees programme presenting useful opportunities for our sector. The environment is also where some of the major policy decisions facing our sector will be made this year. In the next couple of months the draft of the Zero Carbon Bill is likely to be announced and the Interim Climate Change Committee will report back to the Government, including on

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whether agriculture should be in the Emissions Trading Scheme and how that could happen. New regulations around water quality will also be consulted on in the first half of the year. We have been engaging with government and industry partners on all these issues to help shape any decisions so they create frameworks that deliver on the outcomes the Government wants while also being workable for farmers. Now our Future Farm is up and running we will start to implement a programme of work where we can demonstrate new technologies and new techniques so farmers can see how they work in a commercial environment. The Mycoplasma bovis response will remain an important area of focus for B+LNZ. We will continue to support farmers affected by the response while working with the Ministry for Primary Industries and DairyNZ to improve processes and timeliness around the response. The progress of the phased eradication indicates we are on track to eliminate the disease but there is still a significant amount of work to be done before we

know that for certain. There is also the joint B+LNZ and DairyNZ consultation on the time frames in which farmers will repay the industry’s share of the response cost. That consultation will start soon. Looking further afield, uncertainty remains on the trade front. At the time of writing Brexit remained up in the air and B+LNZ is working with the Meat Board, the Meat Industry Association and processing companies to ensure stability and continuity should no deal be reached. Trade tensions between the US and China, as well as rising protectionism elsewhere are also areas we are keeping watching briefs on. There is good news though. The Comprehensive and Progressive Trans Pacific Partnership entered into force on December 30 with significant tariff reductions and opportunities in important markets like Japan. There are also the European Union-NZ free-trade agreement negotiations with the EU being a significant market worth more than $2 billion for our sector. This year we’ll also be

advancing our work on building the capability of the sheep and beef sector’s people. We’ll work closely with the Government to work out a sustainably funded training regime that is outcomes-based and focused on delivering onfarm results. Alongside all this B+LNZ will continue to deliver on all the things you expect of us such as our extension activity, developing resources and advice on best practice farming techniques, delivering insights about the sector to help inform both your on-farm decisions and local and central government policy and helping you tell your story as farmers better to the NZ public. As you can see, it’s going to be a busy year with a lot of important issues and work to get done and I look forward to speaking to many of you over the coming months.

Your View Got a view on some aspect of farming you would like to get across? The Pulpit offers readers the chance to have their say. nzfarmersweekly@nzx.com Phone 06 323 1519

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Opinion

24 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

Prosperity needs water storage Alternative View

Alan Emerson

I RECENTLY attended the launch of the Wairarapa Growth Strategy, which was an impressive example of provincial New Zealand helping itself. The harsh reality is Wairarapa’s economy is growing faster than either Auckland or Wellington at 3.7%. I’d be surprised if other provinces aren’t similarly flourishing. What impressed me about the entire initiative was that everyone is on the same side, committed to improving life in the provinces, in this case Wairarapa. Attending the launch were Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Carterton-based Defence Minister Ron Mark, both New Zealand First. We had local MP, National’s Alastair Scott, and Mastertonbased Labour List MP and master of ceremonies Kieran MacAnulty. There were Wellington regional councillors and staff and the mayors of Tararua, Masterton, Carterton and South Wairarapa, again all singing from the same song sheet.

Farming and business leaders and iwi all support the initiative. The strategy document was developed under the guidance of retired cabinet minister and former Massey University vicechancellor Steve Maharey. It is both thorough and achievable. “Wairarapa has a unique brand of small-town lifestyle and big city sophistication which no-one else can claim,” Maharey said. “Wairarapa is the best kept secret in NZ because of its physical isolation but it’s a great place to live and raise a family. “The region’s economy is based on agriculture but there is enormous interest in adding value to the agricultural commodities and exporting to the world.” It came on the heels of the Wairarapa Food Story, a positive document about food production and its future in the local area. The growth strategy talks about adding value to what we produce. It builds on the food story. It talks about tourism and knowledge-intensive areas, of developing people, housing and businesses. It outlines how we need infrastructure to make it work, high quality transport and reliable water that are both issues close to my heart. It wants to position Wairarapa as the best of rural and urban living. Much is said about adding value to food and beverage, which, again, I support.

We’re going to develop a food and beverage acceleration service to support business and accelerate investment. There will be Wairarapa foodorigin labelling that will both create and support our local identity. There will also be a food connections working group tasked with building links with food networks and researchers. Most important, from a farming perspective, we’re adding value. There’s a people focus and an infrastructure focus, which, as I’ve mentioned, talk about water and transport. Water storage is a major feature of the strategy and one I agree with. It’s a no brainer as, according to the experts, we’re going to become more susceptible to drought. In addition, if we want to diversify into more cropping, as Wairarapa is capable of, we won’t do it without water. I expect the predictable rants from the lunatic fringe of Fish and Game and Greenpeace promising more cows but that is far from reality. The strategy, rightfully, in my opinion, focuses on value not volume and that, to me, suggests niche crops and animals not cows, which has become a mantra of our critics. As I’ve written some years ago I drove through the Ord River irrigation scheme in northwest Australia and you can drive for

VITAL: Wairarapa needs to collect and store more water for farming and businesses to flourish.

some considerable kilometres and not see a farm animal. So we do need new thinking, we do need more research into the potential of different crops under irrigation and that’s where I believe the strategy is sound. Masterton Mayor Lyn Patterson also supports water storage. “It is about ensuring water security for farmers and business, it’s about maintaining a healthy economy,” she said. “The town of Masterton only needs 5% of our water, which is small but vitally important. “The cornerstone of the Wairarapa economy is the other 95% of water users.” The examples of businesses needing water are many and not restricted to agriculture. Juken NZ contributes $300 million to the Wairarapa economy and uses 300,000 to 350,000 litres of water a day. It employs more than 200 people. NZ’s largest ham and bacon supplier employs up to 280 people

and needs 51,000 cubic metres daily. Patterson believes if both companies don’t have reliable water they’ll relocate. There are many other examples. As growth strategy chairwoman Dame Margaret Bazley said, the strategy is about improving the standard of living and keeping the young people here. They are worthwhile objectives. In addition, it will be good for farming and good for the business sector. We have the knowledge and the potential labour force and we have the Yeti initiative that assists youngsters from school to work. We have the combined political, farming and business will to make the province successful. The harsh reality is, however, it won’t work without water storage.

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

British buffoons make our politicians look good IF YOU ever have doubts that we could do better from our politicians of both political persuasions one has only to look to the United Kingdom to see it could be much worse. The unfolding disaster of Brexit might be 18,000km away from us and the apron strings between New Zealand and Mother England are long severed but, as we know all too well in our sector, we are a trading nation and the UK and the European Union are in the top echelon of our trading partners. So, the outcome will have an impact on us one way or another and one also has to feel sorry for the inhabitants of those isles, except for the fanatics who have long argued they are not part of Europe at all despite the best evidence of an atlas and the politicians who have been steadily working towards bringing the whole house of cards down on the country’s own head. I have no idea whether we will benefit or be hurt by a Brexit whether it be a soft, hard or a no deal exit. Commentators say it will be a boon for us and yet meat marketers tell me the Easter lamb trade could be severely disrupted. I suspect there will be swings and roundabouts, winners and losers. A great thing about this country

COMPETENT: Our leaders like Jacinda Ardern and John Key don’t look so bad when compared to their British counterparts.

is that we are quietly proud of our small nation and its achievements but there is little evidence of nationalism and long may that be the case. A party calling itself NZ First suggests we are not totally immune. Nationalism is a modern ideology and holds that each nation should govern itself, free from outside interference. Being a long way from anyone else means we are left on our own. However, we are still enmeshed in world trading relationships. But if you live cheek by jowl in

Europe and particularly if you have been regularly invaded then it becomes more understandable. Nationalism led to many bad things in the 20th century and was a primary driver of globalism and the EU itself. Indeed, Europe has functioned very well since the early 1950s when the early version of the EU was formed and for 60 years countries that spent centuries at each other’s throats have lived and traded in peace. Nationalism has brought the UK to a type of civil war where the population is split right down the

middle over this Brexit debacle. There are plenty of other examples of an emergent nationalism. Trump’s 2016 political campaign with slogans like Make America Great Again and America First fell on fertile soil. The United States is a country where the lines between patriotism and nationalism have become difficult to distinguish. Elsewhere we have seen the rise of Duterte in the Philippines, Erdogan in Turkey, Bolsonaro in Brazil and, of course, Putin in Russia. Putin’s likely influence in both the US presidential elections and the Brexit vote outcome and the resulting uncertainty and chaos show what a clever and dangerous bastard he is. Demonstrating what a political tragic I am, I spent an interesting couple of hours last week watching the UK Parliament pull itself apart before the inevitable defeat of May’s government bill with 118 of her own MPs joining the opposition to heavily defeat the government’s policy by 432 to 202. That 230 vote loss is the biggest defeat in the House of Commons in history. Usually, that would result in the collapse of a government. May was quite secure in offering

From the Ridge

Steve Wyn-Harris

the opposition a call for a vote of no confidence as the one thing that unites her own party is the threat of a Corbyn-led Labour government and he has shown he, too, has no clear idea how Britain is to negotiate the mess it has got itself into. For too long the UK blamed all its ills on Europe rather than looking to itself. Cameron made a play to secure his and his party’s future in a referendum he expected to win. May’s ambition overshadowed common sense and all the other lawmakers in that institution carry similar blame. Clark, Key, Ardern and the others don’t look so bad now, eh?

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

Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

M bovis not yet done and dusted Keith Woodford explains why the Mycoplasma bovis battle is far from over. At best it is the end of the beginning. The Braided Trail

Keith Woodford

THERE is a widespread belief in both the rural and urban communities that Mycoplasma bovis is well on the way to being eradicated from New Zealand. My response here is that there is a still a long way to travel before any declarations of success are appropriate. In December Prime Minister Ardern, no doubt choosing her words carefully and based on official advice, talked of substantial progress. However, the broader tone of both Ministry for Primary Industries and DairyNZ messaging has led to parts of the media and then the general public taking a further step and concluding that the battle is almost over. On 18 December 2018, MPI sent a three-page letter addressed and mailed individually to NZ’s pastoral farmers, which oozed confidence. It started with the lead-in that “I’m pleased to update you on progress …” then went on to say “We’re confident about how the programme is tracking”. The letter did concede “There is still a long way to go to eradicate M bovis.” But the message was strong that the investigators and eradication teams were travelling faster than the disease could travel. The letter said “we are[now] identifying many at-risk farms

before cattle have been able to mix, thereby reducing the risk of spreading the disease to other cattle on the farm”. The messaging from DairyNZ was even stronger. On December 17 they issued a media release saying “Today will come as a relief to many farmers”. They reported “encouraging progress” and said “Thank you to everyone involved … this has truly been a team effort”. All of this does indeed sound as if we are heading into the final straight. I say again, let’s not get ahead of ourselves. To understand where we are at in the eradication campaign, it is helpful to recall that the disease was first identified in July 2017 on a South Canterbury farm, officially known as IP1. MPI was caught napping, with no prior plans for eradication in the event of an outbreak. The response controller has said he had to look on the internet to find out what this surprise disease was. By December 2017, it had been found in Southland and elsewhere, with the first Southland farm identified as IP10. At that stage MPI thought all the new cases, through to and including IP10, led from IP1. It was only about April 2018 that MPI belatedly came to the view that IP10 preceded IP1. Throughout 2018, MPI has been increasingly insistent there is no evidence the disease arrived before December 2015, and that all infections lead back to IP10. This belief is based on modelling of the rate of genetic mutation in the analysed samples. Throughout the first half of 2018, the number of herds identified as infected spread out like a fan, first in the South Island

but also in the North Island, with many of the infected farms clearly being linked to IP10 by known animal movements. However, there is another group of farms, mainly in Canterbury but also in North Otago, for which the links are not readily apparent. Accordingly, although the messaging from MPI has consistently stated all new infections are linked by traces back to IP10, that is not the full story. There are about 10 farms where the links remain unclear.

The response controller has said he had to look on the internet to find out what this surprise disease was. This is not to suggest the farms with unclear links represent a different outbreak, but it is very challenging to see how these links could get back to a single point-source infection as late as December 2015. Those of us who are outside the official MPI system, but who know something of the animal movements on these infected farms, believe the logistics require a longer period back at least one year further and most likely two years. Otherwise we cannot make sense of how the disease managed to travel so quickly and jumped from one farm to another. The alternative to earlier arrival is that both IP10 and some other farms were each struck with an infection from a common source of semen. This is a definite possibility, but even then it becomes challenging to find

disease transmission pathways that started no earlier than December 2015. At times the debates on these matters can get down to semantics, such as the difference between ‘known evidence’ and ‘unknown evidence’, what information should be trusted, and also what constitutes ‘proof’. For example, the molecular clock gives an estimate based on specific assumptions which may or may not hold. Similarly, MPI has not always obtained the detailed and correct information from farmers that it needs. Sometimes this was because MPI officials did not ask the right questions. On other occasions, the information got muddled as it passed up the chain. Subsequently, MPI officials became resistant to correcting obvious mistakes as they did not trust farmer information. For reasons of space, I will use only two puzzle examples here. They are representative of others. One of these farms was identified positive from a milk sample in autumn 2018. Subsequently, it was found that 2017-born calves were also positive, which led to the 2016 mating being the most likely time of infection. However, on this farm there are no suspicious semen links and the most likely source is service bulls born in 2014. There is no proven link back from this farm to IP10, but a scenario linking back to IP10 in 2014 is possible. Other scenarios are also possible, but there is no identifiable scenario that is consistent with IP10 being a single-source infection as late as December 2015. The second example is a dairy

farm that went positive in the weeks leading up to Christmas 2018 with no forward traces from other infected farms. Once again, the most likely infection source would have been service bulls born in 2014 or at the latest in 2015. For this second farm, there is a back-trace for a bull calf that was sold in 2016, so MPI can correctly say that it was a trace farm. But there are over 5000 trace farms in New Zealand, and back-traces tell us nothing about how the disease got to the farm. They only tell how the disease may have left the farm. The challenge for eradication is that very few farms show clinical evidence of the disease. In most cases it fans out without visual evidence. Also, the tests are not reliable. Where has it got to that we don’t know about? Currently, the most likely source of ongoing transmission is via service bulls and heifer calves. Given the starting point was in the Friesian breed, that is where the greatest risk lies. But it has also spread elsewhere. The Five Star beef feedlot is further evidence of that spread to other breeds. There lies an interesting story. The bottom line has to be that New Zealand is still in the early stages of its eradication campaign. It will be many years of monitoring and slaughter before victory can be claimed.

Your View Keith Woodford was Professor of farm management and agribusiness at Lincoln University for 15 years to 2015. He is now principal consultant at AgriFood Systems. He can be contacted at kbwoodford@gmail.com

Brexit comes at a bad time for meat exporters Nigel Stirling nigel.g.stirling@gmail.com KIWI farmers have skin in the game in Britain’s ongoing Brexit shambles. After seeing her Brexit agreement torpedoed in the House of Commons last week British Prime Minister Theresa May is due to front up again today with a new plan. Unfortunately for the beleaguered Tory leader none of the options being discussed commands the support of the majority of British parliamentarians. But the impasse can’t go on forever and depending on which option is chosen there will be knock-ons for Britain’s trading partners. While they might not have admitted it, May’s plan would have been the preferred option for our lamb exporters. The scheduled Brexit date of March 29 is the worst possible timing for meat companies

targeting the chilled Easter market. Chilled meat has a limited shelf life and hold-ups at British ports would cut short the selling window for supermarkets before discounting kicks in. New Zealand exporters have pinned their hopes on the British customs authorities finding a way of easing product from trusted suppliers through the mayhem but the reality is nobody knows what will happen and containers could be stuck on the wharves for weeks while new customs procedures are bedded in. They also face a glut of competition from British sheep farmers cut off from the continent by tariffs as high as 50%. May’s defeated plan would have avoided all of that by keeping existing trading arrangements between the European Union and the United Kingdom in place till December 2020 while a new trade deal was thrashed out. The closer the UK gets to the

end of March without a deal the closer to this crash-out scenario it will get. That might not be an entirely bad thing for some NZ exporters, however, and could bring gains more quickly than anticipated.

While they might not have admitted it, May’s plan would have been the preferred option for our lamb exporters.

NZ dairy and beef remains largely on the outer in the UK because of eye-wateringly high EU tariffs. If the UK crashes out of the EU and the customs union at the end of March it will be on the hunt for new trade deals of its own. NZ has been told it is near the top of the list and our negotiators

will use that to their advantage and demand dairy and beef tariffs be scrapped. One option May is being pressed to consider is where the UK leaves the EU but remains part of the customs union. Similar to the relationship Norway has with the EU it would bypass the chaos at the border of a no-deal Brexit. On the flip-side it would nobble the UK’s ability to negotiate its own free-trade deals because it would permanently be bound by the high tariffs and generally protectionist mindset of bureaucrats in Brussels. Powered by world-leading financial services, the UK is still the fifth largest economy in the world. This gives it bargaining power in free-trade negotiations. The hard Brexiteers in May’s party like Trade Minister Liam Fox and leadership contender and former London mayor Boris Johnson see a clean break from Brussels as the key to a

rejuvenation of the UK as a trading nation. It is hard to see them giving that up for a half-way house solution. What seems more likely is the UK kicking the can down the road with a delay to the March Brexit date. That would give it time to go back to Brussels to negotiate a withdrawal deal it can better live with. While that could work in favour of NZ lamb exporters it could create problems for other exporters. NZ apples, for example, would have avoided disruption in British ports from a hard Brexit at the end of March. But if Brexit is delayed for a few months and the UK and the EU still can’t come to an agreement for either a transition period or a free-trade deal between themselves then NZ apple exports could be hitting gridlocked British ports later this year just as their main selling season gets into its stride.

26 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

On Farm Story

TEST: Nikau Coopworth owner Kate Broadbent is constantly challenging her flock.

Photos: Sarah Brook

Stepping up to genetics plate Waikaretu Valley sheep and beef farmer Kate Broadbent is committed to improving the odds for New Zealand sheep farmers against natural hazards. Luke Chivers reports.

HEEP and beef farmer Kate Broadbent from Nikau Coopworth in Waikaretu Valley in Waikato is combining her passion for the land with sheep genetics and performance reporting. The former Canadian has a longstanding connection with the primary sector, science and innovation. “I grew up on a dairy farm in Nova Scotia, Canada and it was there my love of farming was born,” Broadbent says. “I’ve always known I wouldn’t survive very long in an office or in traffic. “But there’s nothing quite like being outside and doing physical work. I enjoy the variety of jobs – fixing waterlines, mending fences, tagging lambs or shearing sheep.” And shearing sheep is exactly what Broadbent did for more than 25 years. “I worked as a shearer and shepherd in the United Kingdom, across Canada and in North America. “I traded winter for summer, chasing the shearing season yearround.” Broadbent, who now has New Zealand residency, ended up here through her connection with the sheep industry’s Woodward family. Her Canadian neighbours

were sheep farmers who knew Anne and Philip Woodward from Waikaretu. The Woodwards are progressive farmers renowned for their dedication to the Coopworth breed and their place in the future of NZ’s sheep industry, she says. “I’d heard their passion was infectious and their ideas revolutionary. “They saw breeding animals with natural resistance to parasites as a big part of the longterm, sustainable solution for parasite management – and well before it was widely-respected. “The Woodwards focused their breeding programme on parasite resistance to strengthen their flock with animals that required less drench, reducing the risk of drench resistance, increasing farm profitability and taking the edge off workload.” In 1987 Broadbent found herself packing her bags and setting off on an overseas experience, taking up an invite from the Woodwards to work on their family farm. “NZ’s grass-fed farming had always appealed to me and I wanted to see it first-hand for myself,” she says. “It’s hard not to love it here, wide open spaces, fresh air and a booming industry – we have it all, really. “Plus, I was lucky enough to work on Nikau Coopworth – a

property halfway between Raglan and Port Waikato – with Philip’s brother Clive and his wife Susan for more than 20 years. “I learnt a lot from them. They were great mentors. “And, after years of travel, I finally decided to settle down in my 40s,” she says. Broadbent was given the chance to buy the Nikau Coopworth stud in 2009, initially in partnership with Clive Woodward’s niece, Emily Welch and husband, Sam. Broadbent bought out her partners in 2015 and has been running the stud solo ever since. Nikau Coopworth is a 340ha effective property made up of two farms 7km apart – which Broadbent leases and describes as rolling coastal country is typically summer dry. The property is home to one of NZ’s elite stud flocks. “It’s a productive sheep that fits the environment,” Broadbent says. “Coopworths are not a big percentage of the national flock but are involved in a good percentage of composite breeds. They are dual purpose with high fertility, high production, good mothers with lots of milk and produce heavy weaning weights. “If you have a Coopworth flock you put to a terminal sire, like a Suffolk or Dorset, you have the

potential for a high percentage of lambs to be gone at weaning if you do it right – if you feed them.” Broadbent’s focus is sheep genetics though her family background in dairy was always going to secure the existence of cattle on the property. Nikau Coopworth runs several classes of sheep and beef stock and has run an average of eight stock units a hectare for the past three years. The 1000 sheep include 600 mixed-age ewes – up to 250 of which are unrecorded and commercial and go to a Suffolk ram. “In its own right the commercial flock has got better as the stud has got better,” she says. The rest of the ewes are the recorded Nikau stud flock. Broadbent also runs about 200 recorded ewe hoggets and 200 rams. Last season she killed 400 lambs through Wilson Hellaby at an average weight of 19kg. Cattle numbers in 2018 were about 250 mixed-age Angus-Friesian dairycross cows. The property has a gully filled with regenerating native bush, in a QEII National Trust covenant, and a commercial tourist attraction, Nikau Cave – a one kilometre series of caverns with stalagmites, stalactites and glowworms. Broadbent keeps the country

well grazed with her sheep and cattle and has continued the Woodward’s pursuit of facial eczema tolerance, natural parasite immunity and higher production. “I am constantly challenging my flock. “I want my hoggets to reach target tupping weight on those hills and that grass so my clients can do the same. “They will use crops and outperform me because they will be reaching the genetic potential of the sheep,” she says. And there is a simple reason for that – Broadbent is committed to improving the odds for NZ sheep farmers against natural hazards. She found that despite buying expensive rams many farmers discover their sheep with FE. “There is no complete resistance to facial eczema. Even after 40 years of testing and selecting, we still get reactors. But there are now genetics with a very high level of tolerance. “Yes, some animals will tip over under high, sustained challenge

On Farm Story

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

FIT FOR PURPOSE: Coopworth sheep are dual purpose with high fertility, high production, good mothers with lots of milk and produce heavy weaning weights, Kate Broadbent says.

Genetics works and it is the only sustainable, long-term solution. Kate Broadbent Nikau Coopworth – like we’ve had in past seasons – but, in flocks with a good level of tolerant genetics, the majority will be fine and show no effect.” Many of the Nikau Coopworth clients have reported aboveaverage lambing results in the past two years – the simple combination of FE tolerance and good feed availability at tupping, she says. “Because these animals didn’t succumb to FE they were able to realise their genetic potential where other flocks were unable. “Genetics works and it is the only sustainable, long-term solution,” she says. Broadbent’s ewes haven’t been drenched since 2002 as she pursues natural parasite immunity, constantly taking faecal egg samples. But she does drench lambs. “I’m not organic but I’m looking for an early immune response to parasites. “Most adult animals don’t need parasite control if you feed them well enough. My philosophy is to produce sheep that can handle the conditions without supplement, with ewes on a no drench policy, rebounding quickly after a tough season.” And it is working. Coopworths have the highest scoring indexes in the country, she says. “It’s not rocket science. But it is science. “It requires a rigorous selection process and the use of modern technology to assess a sheep’s heritable traits. “Breeding sheep for parasite resistance is achievable and will save farmers time and money.” Broadbent is no stranger to onfarm research and development. She is president of Coopworth Genetics NZ, a member of the Beef + Lamb NZ farmer council, and a founding member of the steering committee of FE Gold

as well as WormFec Gold – which seek to protect and advocate for farmers who breed for parasiteresistant genetics. Her stud has a close association with Lincoln and Massey Universities and is a part of the Coopworth Society, Sheep Improvement, NZ Ovine Sire Referencing and Frontier Genetics. “I’ve always been interested in genetics and I’ve always liked the challenge of it.” Broadbent’s involvement in FE Gold – a working group made up of deer, dairy, sheep and beef farmers – sees her pursue alternative testing methods for assessing FE. She says the six-year-old group wasn’t formed to sell more rams. “Its primary goal is to educate the ram buyer as to the top level of genetic tolerance available. It is the only industry group that encompasses any breed. There are Romney, Perendale and Coopworth flocks with FE Gold status. “It is not about the breed but about years of testing and level of

NATURE: Kate Broadbent’s farm has a gully filled with regenerating native bush, in a QEII National Trust covenant, and a commercial tourist attraction, Nikau Cave – a one kilometre series of caverns with stalagmites, stalactites and glowworms.

testing and using only tested sires in stud flocks. “These are flocks at the top of the game.” She says the group was started to counter misinformation. “The challenge is to provide commercial farmers with the tools to help them select a breeder and the ram genetics to help them lift tolerance.” “There will be a lot of rams advertised this year as high tolerance or resistant that have very little testing history, low testing levels or minimal selection. “A lot of the ram-selling companies and farms have large marketing budgets. Farmers buy them thinking they’re getting a good ram and the progeny falls apart, which undermines everything we do.” It is a trend that is also undermining NZ’s licence to sell internationally, Broadbent says. “NZ is uniquely poised to sell products. We’ve got a huge opportunity. “We have high environmental standards, an international marketplace wanting to know

where their food comes from and that we treat our animals and workers well. “We can provide this,” she says. “But right now we’re missing out because we’re not operating under one banner – NZ Inc. “We’re telling a lot of different stories from the sheep and beef industry to the dairy and venison industries and the agricultural industry. “We need to tell the story that we are doing it – that as farmers we are actually walking the walk – and I think a lot of that goes back to reducing the inputs and the reliance on chemical use. “I’m not advocating we all go organic because that in itself can potentially be an animal welfare issue. But it’s about farming smarter. “Some farmers see these consumer demands as negative but as a breeder I think it’s an opportunity,” she says. And in Broadbent’s case, a big part of that is drenching less and maintaining FE tolerance. “Today’s affluent consumers want to purchase products that

PLENTY: Kate Broadbent says lambs from her Coopworth ewes can all be gone at weaning, provided they are well-fed.

have had minimal inputs and met good standards. “If they can’t get lamb in the condition they want it, they’ll buy an alternative meat instead. Consumer demand is constantly evolving so we too must change in order to keep up.” Naturally, Broadbent says she is always looking ahead. “I frequently ask myself: ‘what can I do today to help me in 10 years from now?’ It forces me to challenge my operations and future-proof my business. “The future holds all sorts of opportunities for our industry so long as we continue to step up to the plate.”

>> Video link: bit.ly/OFSbroadbent

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MANY HANDS MAKE

A helping hand is always welcome on the farm or lifestyle block and likewise, if you’re looking to sell your rural property. The autumn 2019 edition of Bayleys’ Country magazine will be the practical support you need. It’s an altogether better plan because when you list with Bayleys, the nationwide rural team gets right behind you to find the best buyer and that’s where grit and determination comes into play. Our rural band of workers gets stuck in to get the job done – and we all know how vital teamwork is when it comes to efficiency and results both on-farm and off. For 20 years, Country magazine has provided rural New Zealand property owners with the opportunity to unearth buyers. We have the tools to dig deep and get your farm or lifestyle block in front of active and passive local, national and international buyers. Then we have the proven skills to complete the circle on a sale – that’s why Bayleys is recognised as New Zealand’s number one rural brand. Talk to your local Bayleys office today about Country magazine and share the workload. Let us lend a hand.

More value from trees a big challenge Interest in forestry and wood processing from government is welcome, but adding value to logs can be a tough job.

The show must go on

The traditional A&P Show is holding its own in a changing society and continues to unite rural and urban communities.

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125 FARM, SPECIALTY AND LIFESTYLE PROPERTIES FOR SALE ISSUE 2 – 2018

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Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services

Taupo Tram Road

Multiple grazing blocks Four titles subject to survey are being offered to the market as one or separate from 90 hectares, two of approx. 140 hectares and 250 hectares. Located 20 minutes from Taupo this land has had no expense spared in its development. Large laneways, top quality fencing throughout with paddocks subdivided to approx. 2.5 hectares, two sets of cattle yards with weigh facilities and concrete floor and an impressive water supply. Flanked by forestry those looking for a top-quality lifestyle / large runoff will be impressed with what they find here. The prestige in owning one or all of these properties will be evident once viewed. Currently running dairy graziers the land lends itself to all stock types with strong wintering and soil characteristics. Rare offering finished to a high standard, this property will be one all buyers large scale or not, should be giving serious consideration.

Tender (unless sold prior) Closing 4pm, Fri 8 Feb 2019 1092 Fenton Street, Rotorua View by appointment Ben Hickson 021 433 283 ben.hickson@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/2450033

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NEW LISTING

Boundary lines are indicative only

Morrinsville 1071 Morrinsville-Tahuna Road

Dairy or grazing

This 57ha (more or less) dairy unit, north of Morrinsville, is a real first farm opportunity or a well set-up grazing or cropping block. The property is in two titles and mostly flat with a small amount gentle rolling. Currently 180 cows are milked with four year production average of 58,768ms. The centrally located 20ASHB has an in-shed meal feeding system. Maize is grown on farm and three hectares of chicory grown. A very good central race runs both ways from the dairy to 43 paddocks. The water system consists of one main bore with submersible pumped through a Magnum filtration system then pressure reticulated through mainly 32 and 25mm mainlines. Support buildings include a 5 bay gable shed, 4 bay half round barn, old dairy plus a three bedroom home with outside room and double garage. A very easy one person unit in a great location with the overseas owner cashing up.

Auction (unless sold prior) 11am, Tue 26 Feb 2019 96 Ulster Street, Hamilton View 12-1pm Tue 29 Jan Mike Fraser-Jones 027 475 9680 mike.fraserjones@bayleys.co.nz

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bayleys.co.nz/2310240

Otorohanga Lees Block Road

First class facilities Converted to dairy in 2013, this 114ha farm has first class farm facilities, flat to easy rolling contour and sustainable production. The 40 ASHB dairy shed has in-shed meal feeders, automated cup removers and teat sprayer. The average production is 95,247kgMS with this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s projected production to be an improvement on that. The farm is managed under a once a day low input system with 280 cows. Good bore water and consent for 368 cows. The effluent system includes weeping walls and a fully lined pond with an estimated 120 day storage capacity. The hard work of conversion and establishment is now over and the farm is primed for the next exciting stage of its evolution. The current owners have already bought elsewhere and are committed to moving on!

bayleys.co.nz/2310225

bayleys.co.nz

Auction (unless sold prior) 11am, Thu 21 Feb 2019 96 Ulster Street, Hamilton View 11am-12pm Tue 29 Jan Sharon Evans AREINZ 027 235 4771 sharon.evans@bayleys.co.nz Stuart Gudsell AREINZ 021 951 737 stuart.gudsell@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

NEW LISTING

Wairoa Te Puna Station, 2775 Mangapoike Road

Scale, rainfall and multiple income opportunities An opportunity to purchase significant scale in a high rainfall environment, at very affordable levels. Te Puna Station is 1,594 hectares located 37 kilometres north of Wairoa. Carrying approximately 9,500 stock units, the farm has 80 hectares of high UMF manuka due for honey production in 2019, forecasting strong returns. Development has resulted in excellent access throughout the farm, improved subdivision, weed control and currently under construction is a new main homestead. An excellent farming climate, annual rainfall over 2 metres whilst also benefitting from early seasons, a good mix of aspect, with the majority of the farm lying below 450 metres. The farm is ideally positioned as a breeding block to support a finishing operation or expand on the planting projects. The vendors are focusing on other projects and want this property sold. Call to inspect.

Tender (will not be sold prior) Closing 4pm, Thu 7 Mar 2019 17 Napier Road, Havelock North Tony Rasmussen 027 429 2253 tony.rasmussen@bayleys.co.nz Simon Bousfield 027 665 8778 simon.bousfield@bayleys.co.nz

bayleys.co.nz/2851503

EASTERN REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008 MACPHERSON MORICE LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Taupo 870 Rakaunui Road

Potential to build, rural, industrial use or graze • Land Area: 25.7145ha (more or less) • Option of rural and rural/industrial (subject to council consent) • Currently being utilised for grazing, this bare land off Rakaunui Road is now for sale, accessed by a shared road. Would suit a number of uses subject to council consent; potential development to sub-divide into large lifestyle blocks, ideal for contractor maintenance or storage yards. Totally versatile - call now for an appointment to view.

bayleys.co.nz/2651325

Set Sale Date (unless sold prior) 4pm, Fri 15 Feb 2019 44 Roberts Street, Taupo View by appointment Julie Holt 021 079 8160 julie.holt@bayleys.co.nz WESTERMAN REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz

RURAL 129 Main Street PAHIATUA pahiatua@pb.co.nz 06 376 8486

Property Brokers Pahiatua Ltd Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008

Maharahara - Block 1

Maharahara - Block 2

TENDER WEB ID PR65417 DANNEVIRKE 495 Graham Road 64 ha of flat to undulating contoured land situated 16km south of Dannevirke in a highly regarded farming area. This property is currently utilised as a sheep breeding & finishing unit but could suit numerous farming practices including beef finishing, dairy support & cropping. Farming infrastructure includes reticulated water, steel cattle yards, three stand woolshed and implement shed. The property has a four bedroom brick home featuring two living areas, billiard room & double garage, all set in well-kept grounds. An adjoining 29 ha is offered for sale WEB ID PR65418.

TENDER

TENDER View By Appointment TENDER closes Friday 1st March, 2019 at 2.00pm, to be submitted to Lloyd Dodson & Pringle, 9 Ward Street Dannevirke

Jared Brock

WEB ID PR65418 DANNEVIRKE Graham Road 29 ha of predominately flat contoured land situated 15km south of Dannevirke, complete with space planted trees throughout the block on highly desirable soils. This property is currently utilised as a sheep breeding and finishing unit but could suit numerous farming practices including beef finishing, dairy support and arable. Subdivided into six paddocks, complete with reliable reticulated water supply and troughs in every paddock. An adjoining 64 ha is offered for sale WEB ID PR65417.

Mobile 027 449 5496 Office 06 376 4823 Home 06 376 6341 jared@pb.co.nz

Maharahara - Block 4

TENDER

pb.co.nz

Jared Brock

Mobile 027 449 5496 Office 06 376 4823 Home 06 376 6341 jared@pb.co.nz

Maharahara - Block 3

WEB ID PR65415 DANNEVIRKE 431 Heretaunga Road 40 ha of flat to undulating/easy hill contoured land, subdivided into six paddocks + two holding paddocks & located 16km from Dannevirke township. Currently utilized for running replacement stock with the foundation soil predominately Maharahara sandy loam, this property has the underpinning for numerous farm practices. Farm infrastructure includes reticulated water, two bay hayshed, three bay shed (2 open, 1 lock-up workshop) and two bay car garage. Perfectly positioned for Ruahine Range views, the property is complemented by a four bedroom home including two livings areas.

TENDER View By Appointment TENDER closes Friday 1st March, 2019 at 2.00pm, to be submitted to Lloyd Dodson & Pringle, 9 Ward Street Dannevirke

TENDER

TENDER View By Appointment TENDER closes Friday 1st March, 2019 at 2.00pm, to be submitted to Lloyd Dodson & Pringle, 9 Ward Street Dannevirke

Jared Brock

Mobile 027 449 5496 Office 06 376 4823 Home 06 376 6341 jared@pb.co.nz

WEB ID PR65416 DANNEVIRKE Maharahara Road Renowned as a summer safe area, this 99 ha picturesque property of flat to undulating contoured land is situated only 17km from the Dannevirke township. With 90% of the block containing Dannevirke silt loam, coupled with mature shelter belts throughout and good internal fencing, subdivided into approximately 30 paddocks. Farm infrastructure includes two stand woolshed with sheep yards and covered drenching race, reticulated water, cattle yards with two concreted force pens and load-out facilities, combined fertiliser bin complete with adjoining shed space.

TENDER View By Appointment TENDER closes Friday 1st March, 2019 at 2.00pm, to be submitted to Lloyd Dodson & Pringle, 9 Ward Street Dannevirke

Jared Brock

Mobile 027 449 5496 Office 06 376 4823 Home 06 376 6341 jared@pb.co.nz

RURAL 129 Main Street PAHIATUA pahiatua@pb.co.nz 06 376 8486

Property Brokers Pahiatua Ltd Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008

Tuscan Hills 1,186 ha

TENDER WEB ID PR65383

PONGAROA 1501 Pahiatua - Pongoroa Road Large scale breeding and finishing, Tuscan Hills is renowned for producing quality stock to the market. Just 15km east of Pahiatua and SH 2, Tuscan Hills is centrally located to the Manawatu, Wairarapa and Hawkes Bay markets. Carrying over 8,500 quality su on an effective area of 1,020 ha with the remaining area being a mix of Manuka scrub and native bush. This well fertilised medium to steeper hill country property is well subdivided into 50+ main paddocks with excellent tracking and laneways providing access and ease of stock movement.

Two woolsheds (1 x 6, 1 x 4 stand) with covered yards at each end of the property are complemented by two sets of cattle yards, 8 sets of satellite sheep yards and airstrip providing an excellent level of farming infrastructure. Three homes provide ample accommodation with the homestead featuring 4 bedrooms and set in mature grounds. Tuscan Hills has been faithfully farmed for the last 35+ years and is ready to be passed on to the incoming purchaser.

Glencairn 346 ha

VIEW By Appointment TENDER closes Thursday 28th February, 2019 at 2.00pm, To be submitted to Property Brokers Limited, 129 Main Street Pahiatua

Jared Brock

Mobile 027 449 5496 Office 06 376 4823 Home 06 376 6341 jared@pb.co.nz

John Arends

Mobile 027 444 7380 Office 06 376 4364 johna@pb.co.nz

Tararua Holsteins 153 ha

WEB ID PR65381 PAHIATUA 302 Kaitawa Road View By Appointment Located only 3km from Pahiatua and under 40 minutes drive to Palmerston North, this sheep and beef breeding/finishing property is sure to appeal. The easy to medium hill farm is extensively subdivided into 44 main paddocks with a central laneway providing ease of stock Jared Brock movement. Exceptional fertiliser history has resulted in Mobile 027 449 5496 Office 06 376 4823 3,000 plus quality stock units being wintered on the Home 06 376 6341 property. Key infrastructure includes a three stand jared@pb.co.nz woolshed and covered yard facility (1,000np), cattle yards and extensive shedding including a well John Arends maintained three bedroom home all within the dress Mobile 027 444 7380 circle. Office 06 376 4364

$2,450,000 + GST (IF ANY)

johna@pb.co.nz

pb.co.nz

TENDER

3 1

WEB ID PR63079 PAHIATUA 82690 SH2 View By Appointment Located 7km south of Pahiatua, exceptional dairy units of this calibre are rare in today's market place. Virtually all flat & effective, Tararua Holsteins features uniform subdivision & pristine races which lead to a centrally located 30 ASHB shed. Key infrastructure includes Jared Brock in-shed feeding, excellent shedding and modern Mobile 027 449 5496 Office 06 376 4823 compliant effluent system. This property is unequalled Home 06 376 6341 for soil types, contour & fertility which is reflected in its jared@pb.co.nz 170,000 kgMS three year average with further upside achievable. With two family homes, completes one of John Arends the best dairy units in the Tararua. Mobile 027 444 7380

BY NEGOTIATION

Office 06 376 4364 johna@pb.co.nz

4 1

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 21, 2019

Real Estate

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

RURAL 217 West Street, Ashburton

Hastings McLeod Limited Licensed REAA 2008

Office 03 307 9176

Jewel in the crown - 246.58Ha

WEB ID AR66066 WINCHMORE 670 Dromore Methven Road View By Appointment DEADLINE SALE closes Friday 22nd February, 2019 at Winchmore Research Station is an iconic property 4.00pm, (unless sold prior) known worldwide as the centre of irrigation research Paul Cunneen in New Zealand. New centre pivot and lateral move Mobile 0274 323 382 spray irrigation with low cost pressurised supply. Office 03 307 9190 Quality cattle yards and 4 stand woolshed with covered Home 03 302 6751 yards ideal for stock finishing. Four staff houses and ex paulc@pb.co.nz research complex. Also available as; •174 ha ex research station Toby O'Donnell •72 ha irrigated bareland. Mobile 027 322 6256 Office 03 307 9176 Currently leased until end of harvest 2019.

DEADLINE SALE

toby@pb.co.nz

pb.co.nz

For Sale

Looking for the complete package?

We’ve got you covered with digital and print options.

2480REHP

Contact Shirley Howard phone 06 323 0760, email shirley.howard@globalhq.co.nz

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate

Maungaturoto | 37 Brynderwyn Road

Tender

200.4 Hectares Simply The Best. The property includes two homes, a 50 bail rotary cowshed with a yard capacity for 480 cows, concrete feed pad and bins, calving pad, PKE bin with a retractable roof, concrete silage bunker, fertiliser bin, a large range of barns, calf house and workshop. The property is raced to 71 paddocks, an excellent water supply services all areas of the farm, each paddock has two water troughs ensuring cattle have an abundant supply at all times. Limestone for the races are sourced from any of the three quarries located on the property. This property is well known for consistent high levels of pasture growth resulting from a well-planned fertiliser programme that ensures steady production levels. | Property ID WF1011 Licensed under REAA 2008

Closing 3pm, Monday 4 February 2019 (unless sold by private treaty)

Inspection By appointment

Contact Tom Hackett 027 498 2908 Tim Holdgate 021 475 465

0800 200 600 | farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 21, 2019

colliers.co.nz

Accelerating Success

06 323 3363 Farm & Lifestyle Massey-Side Finishing Farm

AUCTION

559 Tennent Drive, Linton, Manawatu  Farms of this scale within 7km of the Palmerston North CBD rarely come to the market - also just a couple of kilometres to Massey University and the Fonterra Research Centre.  Of the 106ha around 90 hectares is flat; centrally-laned for easy access.  Over 21.4km of Novaflo drains have been installed since 2013.  Excellent near new cattle yards with good off-road hardstand parking.  The majority of the pasture has been renewed over the past five years.  Used for beef production and dairy heifer grazing, carrying over 450 head of mixed age cattle.  Town water supply reticulated to troughs.  Attractive building sites and in this prime location it will be difficult to over-capitalise.

OPEN FARMS - Wednesday 23 & 30 January from 1.00pm to 2.00pm To be sold by AUCTION at 11.00am Thursday 28 February 2019 at our office. Robert Dabb Richard Anderson

027 255 3992 027 543 1610

DAIRY FARM

Web ID: RAL636

www.ruralandlifestylesales.com

OTOROHANGA, 781 Tauraroa Valley Road

Larger self-contained dairy of 469 hectares

Located 30 kilometers East of Otorohanga, in the popular Maihiihi district Tauraroa dairies offers a larger self-contained dairy unit with a good mix of contours, fertile free draining soils and modern on farm infrastructure. • 469.9179 hectares • 304 hectares in grass of which 219 hectares is milked off balance used as dairy support. • Milking 630 cows with 260 replacements also grazed on farm as well as growing 15 ha of maize. • Three-year average production of 242,177 Kg/Ms obtained. • Modern 50 aside herringbone cowshed with cup removers and feed pad. • Recently installed lined effluent pond. • Good quality farm buildings, three quality homes. • Large areas of native bush teaming with wildlife. A farm that will tick a lot of boxes for those looking to secure a larger dairy that can winter the herd as well as having the capability of protecting the herds bio security, by being able to graze all replacements. Priced to get immediate interest this property must be viewed before you commit to any other, you won’t be disappointed.

FOR SALE $9,500,000 +GST (if any)

View: Thursday 24th Jan 11:00am to 1:00pm www.harcourts.co.nz/OH8244

Kerry Harty P 07 873 8700 M 027 294 6215 E kjharty@harcourts.co.nz

Rural Blue Ribbon Realty Ltd mreinz Licensed Agent REAA 2008

PUKEKAKA STATION - 1,103 HECTARES OF HIGHLY DEVELOPED, QUALITY HILL COUNTRY 919 Pukeokahu Road, Taihape Re-investment over a long period of time is clearly evident at Pukekaka, making it one of the best presented hill country farms we have been involved with. Strong country, a significant portion is medium hill with around 100 hectares of flat to undulating country that is regularly cultivated. With a 6 km Rangitikei River boundary, in the main free draining ash soils overlay a papa base, with a strong fertiliser history. Stock water is a mix of local scheme, natural and tapped springs. The standard of fencing overall is of a high standard, with many new fences, all conventional other than a 80 hectare deer block. Access is excellent with very good tracks and various laneways radiating from the central stock handling facilities, although the property is also well served with 4 sets of quality satellite yards. Other recent capital injections include a woolshed upgrade with covered yards and lots of concrete added, alterations to the spacious 1980â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main home with great garaging, sheds and outlook. Impressive results from the 10,000su forward store operation has seen the last 5 years lambing averaging 150%, with the Wairere bred lambs leaving the farm at 35-38kg average (incl. over 2,000 killed last year) and cattle at 18 months. The well bred stock is well regarded and sought after. Video on website. Tender closes 11am, Thu 14 Feb 2019, NZR, 20 Kimbolton Road, Feilding.

GRAZING, HUNTING & FISHING 146 Geanges Road, Apiti Situated just north of Apiti, this 201 acre farm has been a great home for the owners dairy heifers and beef cattle, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the stunning 2km river boundary, deer in the bush margin and duck shooting that really gets them excited about this block. Only for sale due to another purchase, the easy/moderate hills with strong pastures are complemented by approximately 18ha of flats and undulating river terraces. With reliable natural water, cattle yards, the old woolshed has adopted a new life as a hut. A place where you can mix cost-effective and quality grazing with rest-effective adventure. Call for viewing times.

81.5 hectares Tender nzr.nz/RX1734897 Tender Closes 11am, Thu 7 Feb 2019, NZR, 20 Kimbolton Road, Feilding. Peter Barnett AREINZ 027 482 6835 | peter@nzr.nz NZR Limited | Licensed REAA 2008

1,103 hectares Tender nzr.nz/RX1734212 Peter Barnett AREINZ 027 482 6835 | 06 323 4434 peter@nzr.nz Jamie Proude AREINZ 027 448 5162 | 06 385 4789 jamie@nzr.nz NZR Limited | Licensed REAA 2008

PRIME FINISHING CLOSE TO FEILDING Ngaio Road, Mount Biggs, Feilding Situated only 11km from Feilding, this well set up property will suit those looking for quality lamb finishing or dairy support in a great location. For sale due to the owners purchase of a larger property, it is currently utilised as a lamb and cattle finishing unit. Comprising a high proportion of flat and easy contoured country, an annual re-grassing programme and strong fertiliser history, mean pasture quality is high. With quality conventional fencing, centrally located is an excellent set of sheep and cattle yards. Other improvements include a fertiliser bin, haysheds and reticulated trough water with frontage to two roads.

112.8 hectares Video on website nzr.nz/RX1753380 Tender Closes 11am, Tue 5 Feb 2019, NZR, 20 Kimbolton Road, Feilding. Peter Barnett AREINZ 027 482 6835 | peter@nzr.nz NZR Limited | Licensed REAA 2008

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 21, 2019

New Zealand’s leading rural real estate company RURAL | LIFESTYLE | RESIDENTIAL

NEW LISTING

Highly Profitable Dairy Unit • 319.4066ha of flat to easy contour in four titles, huge harbour aspect with private airstrip and jetty • 50 bail rotary cowshed with auto cup removers, auto teat spray • Adjoining 600+ cow feed pad, flood washed, part rubber matted, excellent water supply and raceways • Two tidy three bedroom homes, plus one bedroom selfcontained unit pggwre.co.nz/WEL29055

Glorit, North Auckland PRICE BY NEGOTIATION Plus GST (if any)

Scott Tapp M 021 418 161

scott.tapp@pggwrightson.co.nz

1392 Geraldine Fairlie Highway

Great Omakau Land Bank Opportunity • 526 hectares bare land next to Omakau and Ophir • Balance of irrigated land (60ha), arable dryland and easy low hill country with a steep river face • Possible subdivision potential (at the Ophir end of the property) pggwre.co.nz/ALE29743

Central Otago TENDER Plus GST (if any) Closes 3.00pm, Fri 22 Feb

Mike Direen M 027 434 0087 Shaun O'Docherty M 021 708 165

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

THE DESTINATION FOR RURAL REAL ESTATE Land is the biggest asset to any farming business so it pays to stay up to date with the market.

Connect with the right audience at

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate

'Forest Downs' is a 319ha finishing property in the well renowned Cattle Valley. Presently finishing two bulls/ha and taking three weaners/ha over summer. The property grows good winter feed crops, approx 700mm rainfall with approx 65ha irrigated. Well laned with a combination of graded track and techno-type lanes. The fertile soils have been tested and results available. There is a four year old home and large array of farm buildings including concrete floor workshop and calf rearing facilities. A great first farm option, support block as well as already proving a great finishing property. pggwre.co.nz/ASH29061

Fairlie AUCTION Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) 1.00pm, Friday 1 March (On Site)

Tim Gallagher M 027 801 2888

tim.gallagher@pggwrightson.co.nz

Robin Ford M 027 433 6883

rford@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz

New Zealand’s leading rural real estate company RURAL

LIFESTYLE

RESIDENTIAL

NEW LISTING

Good Summer Location 682 Thornton Road • All flat 66.03 hectares • Four-year production average 74,648kg MS, milking 210 cows • 20 ASHB, calf rearing and storage sheds, half round barn • Newly commissioned above ground Kliptank effluent system • Four bedroom family home and cottage • Lease land support blocks in close proximity • Only 12.6km to Whakatane and only 2.5km to Thornton Beach and boat ramp

Whakatane TENDER Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold By Private Treaty) Closes 4.00pm, Thursday 28 February

pggwre.co.nz/WHK29701

Phil Goldsmith B 07 307 1620 | M 027 494 1844 pgoldsmith@pggwrightson.co.nz

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

pggwre.co.nz

RURAL | LIFESTYLE | RESIDENTIAL

Local experts, national exposure, SOLD! The spring/summer rural property market has been a busy one, and our national team of experienced sales consultants have been achieving outstanding results for their clients. If you’re considering listing your property this autumn, now’s the time to talk – contact our team now for expert advice.

SOLD

Cambridge | 118.06ha | Martin Lee SOLD

Waimumu 63.44ha

SOLD

Darrell Duncan Bill McDonald

SOLD

Five Forks 350.51ha

4.65ha

Lowcliffe 154.71ha

SOLD

Robin Ford Tim Gallagher

SOLD

Dave Heffernan

SOLD

Te Puke

Marlborough | 50.29ha | Joe Blakiston, Greg Lyons

Tapawera 190.92ha

Palmerston 311.66ha

221.61ha

Todd Anderson

SOLD

Douglas Smith

SOLD

Stan Robb Chris Robb

Menzies Ferry

SOLD

Clydevale 353.11ha

844ha

Bruce Hoban

SOLD

Stewart Rutter Jason Rutter

SOLD

Paul Tauwhare Thomson 64.02ha

Culverden

Waipawa 579.89ha

Doug Smith Paul Harper

SOLD

John Sisley

Omihi 249.27ha

Peter Crean Mark Clyne

Go to pggwre.co.nz to find your local salesperson and start planning your autumn campaign. www.pggwre.co.nz

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

Helping grow the country

Employment

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 21, 2019

EXPERIENCED CONTRACT MILKER

Matuku - Taihape

LK0096112©

Matuku Land Company is a 501ha traditional sheep and beef property, located 20km north-east of Taihape and has been family owned for over 100 years. The farm has been leased for the last 11 years and the family are in the process of taking back the management of it. Matuku is a stunning property with a mix of flat, rolling and predominantly hill country terrain with good rainfall and a relatively temperate climate.

TE AWAITI STATION South Wairarapa coastal property of 6618ha requires a competent Livestock Manager. The property farms sheep and beef, deer, and bees.

Inta-Ag is looking for a knowledgeable agronomist, together with trainee agronomists to join their growing team of specialists. Focus will be on vegetable crops and the right person will develop better farming practices and find effective solutions for the vegetable industry. The agronomist will conduct research and provide field scouting, identify and solve problems relating to plant health and soil nutrition and identify damage from insects and disease which will ultimately lead to recommendations to Grower customers. To be a successful candidate you should be focused on developing and promoting better farming practices, be self-motivated, detail-oriented, and be analytical with excellent listening, communication, and problem solving skills.

This is an exciting opportunity for a self-motivated and experienced Farm Manager looking to further their success in a productive farming business with a focus on future development. Initially it is expected the property will run 3000 breeding ewes and 130 breeding cows; however the future stock policy will be confirmed in consultation with the Farm Manager.

The preferred candidate will have a recognised and relevant industry qualification or wishes to gain this qualification through work experience and must have a full clean drivers licence with the willingness to travel, this position will be based in Pukekohe. Agronomist responsibilities: • Studying plants and soil in order to develop better planting, cultivation, and harvesting techniques, improve crop yield, and solve problems facing the Horticultural industry • Visiting fields to collect seed, plant, and soil samples and testing samples for nutritional deficiencies, diseases, or other problems • Keeping detailed records regarding fields, customers, crops, and samples. • Promote Inta-Ag in all that you do

You will be responsible for all operational aspects of the farm including stock management, stock sales and purchases, feed allocation, seasonal staff management and farm maintenance. With the support and guidance of the owners the platform is set for you to demonstrate your capabilities in operational performance, strategic decision making and farm planning.

We are looking for a self-starter and natural stockman who is hard working, diligent, and up for a challenge. A team player who works well and communicates well with others is essential.

The successful candidate will have a generous remuneration package including a company vehicle.

As the Farm Manager you will have excellent stockmanship, a great team of working dogs, good communication skills, able to apply appropriate modern farming techniques and ideally be competent with reporting using modern farm management software.

Additional requirements: • Possess an excellent team of working dogs • Have a good standard of horse riding competence • Possess your own saddle

Please apply in writing to Alison Reeves via email alison@inta-ag.co.nz, applications to be received by Friday 1st February 2019.

www.inta-ag.co.nz

Accommodation is a well-presented two story, 4 bedroom brick homestead with a swimming pool. There is a great country primary school in the district and good secondary schooling in Taihape with school bus runs available. To view a Job Information Pack or to apply, please visit www. ruraldirections.co.nz or phone the Rural Directions team in confidence on 06 871 0450 (Reference # 3213). Applications close 5pm Monday 4th February 2019.

EMPLOYMENT REACH EVERY FARMER IN NZ FROM MONDAY LK0096052©

LK0096134©

For all inquiries, phone 06 307 8850 Evenings preferred

Name: Phone:

Waipa Pastoral Ltd Stock Manager Vacancy

RECRUITMENT & HR

Address:

Due to a current staff member progressing after six years with us we have a vacancy on this special property. Waipa Pastoral is a 540ha dairy grazing property 10km south of Pio Pio in the King Country focused on growing 1100 quality heifers for its farmer shareholders.

Heading: Advert to read:

We are looking for an individual with the following qualities and capabilities:

Casual sale yard job opportunities

• Possess strong values set • Ability to work as part of a team – coming with a “can do” attitude • An eye for detail – taking pride in everything you do • Good stock sense with previous dairy experience an advantage

Join the frontline team at AgriHQ with either of these two hands on roles. Operated by the country’s most innovative multimedia agri-information hub GlobalHQ, AgriHQ is at the forefront of livestock market information. These two roles are an integral part of the foundations that make up AgriHQ’s business and while down at the sale yard, you will be the face of AgriHQ for many of our customers. Accuracy and attention to detail is key as information collected at these points flow through to AgriHQ’s sound and respected reports and make up part of the commentary on the market pages in GlobalHQ’s flagship newspaper, Farmers Weekly.

You will be working with the manager with a varied workload to achieve the goals set for the business and in return share in benefits of achieving these goals. A competitive salary and tidy 3-bedroom brick home comes with the package as does living close to Pio Pio with good schooling and a close knit vibrant community.

Cattle Data Collector – Temuka sale yards, Timaru

LK0096128©

RURAL SECTOR SECTOR

If you have a good knowledge of cattle breeds and ages, and the ability to ‘condition’ cattle, then keep reading. You will need to attend the Temuka cattle sale every Monday and every second Thursday, plus extra days as and when required (for fairs etc). This role requires you to be able to follow the sale process efficiently and without distraction, inputting data from each pen of cattle into the tablet as it is sold. Some knowledge of operating a tablet is preferred. Training will be provided. Start date: As soon as possible.

JOBS BOARD BOARD

Weigh crate operator – Feilding sale yards, Feilding

• 2019 Trainee Programme - Livestock • Agricultural • Livestock Representative Mining Labourer Manager • Agribusiness AgriHQ casual • Rural Cadetship • • Agronomy positions • Sharemilker • Analyst Agronomy • Shepherd • • Dairy Contract Milker • Stock Manager • • General Maintenance Dairy • • Livestock Specialist • USA Harvest Farm Manager Workers • • Manager General • • Pasture and Grazing Specialist Manager • Sharemilker • Shepherd • Shepherd/General Employers: Advertise your vacancy in the employment section of the Farmers Weekly Employers: Advertise vacancy in theto and as added value ityour will be uploaded employment section of thefor Farmers Weekly farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz one month or and asofadded value it will be uploaded to close application.

Attributes needed: • A good level of physical fitness • Excellent stock handling skills • Be able to work as a team in close quarters with other staff members • Be able to operate the portable weigh crate • Be able to work around other persons operating in the Feilding sale yards in a professional manner and without causing conflict • Be able to work efficiently and effectively to ensure the job is completed under time pressures

Get in amongst the action with this hands-on role.

Here, you will attend the Feilding store sale each Friday plus extra days as and when required. Alongside another team member you will efficiently weigh as many lines of store lambs as possible, recording the data.

farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz

Training will be provided. For more details contact suz.bremner@globalhq.co.nz referencing which role you are enquiring about

0092630©

LK0096053©

Both roles will be on a casual basis

LK0096093©

If this sounds like you then please send your CV to: waipapastoral@gmail.com by Friday 25th January.

Please print clearly

Return this form either by fax to 06 323 7101 attention Debbie Brown Post to Farmers Weekly Classifieds, PO Box 529, Feilding 4740 - by 12pm Wednesday or Freephone 0800 85 25 8

LK0096050©

2019 / 2020 Season

farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz for one month or Debbie Brown 06 323 0765 closeContact of application. or email classifieds@globalhq.co.nz Contact Debbie Brown 06 323 0765 or email classifieds@globalhq.co.nz

Hort Agronomist

Farm Manager

• North Rotorua • Summer safe • Mainly flat country • 480 cows • 30 ASHB shed • Low input grass based system • Must have good pasture management Excellent accommodation provided. Email: farmpositionsnz@gmail.com Mobile: 027 493 9064

To apply for the position, email your CV along with a short cover letter and contact details of three professional referees to: danriddiford@teawaitistation.co.nz

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

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

0800 436 566

JOHNNY GRAY Specialists in mustering Wild Goats, Cattle, Horses and Sheep across New Zealand Check out our website and let results speak for themselves www.aotearoastockman.com

Working alongside Crusader Meats

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ANIMAL HANDLING FLY OR LICE problem? Electrodip - The magic eye sheepjetter since 1989 with unique self adjusting sides. Incredible chemical and time savings with proven effectiveness. Phone 07 573 8512 w w w. e l e c t r o d i p . c o m ANIMAL AND HUMAN healer, also manipulation on horses and dogs. 21st to 26th January in Canterbury. 28th January to 2nd February in Kaikoura, Blenheim, Nelson, Murchison and West Coast. For more information phone Ron Wilson 027 435 3089. FOR ONLY $2.10 + gst per word you can book a word only ad in Farmers Weekly Classifieds section. Phone Debbie Brown on 0800 85 25 80 to book in or email classifieds@globalhq.co.nz

WANTED FORESTRY/ WOODLOTS (Shelters removed or harvested)

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

ANIMAL SUPPLEMENTS APPLE CIDER VINEGAR, GARLIC & MANUKA HONEY. 20L - $54.95, 200L $495 or 1000L - $2,200 plus GST with FREE SHIPPING from Black Type Minerals Ltd www. blacktypeminerals. co.nz

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

CONTRACTORS GORSE SPRAYING SCRUB CUTTING. 30 years experience. Blowers, gun and hose. No job too big. Camp out teams. Travel anywhere if job big enough. Phone Dave 06 375 8032.

What do we do? land and trees or harvest and market

DOGS WANTED

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

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

DOGS FOR SALE BRASS DOG WHISTLES. Superior sound. Contact Art Eastham 027 419 8768. www.talla.co.nz NZ BIGGEST SELECTION Huntaways, Heading dogs. Deliver NZ wide, trial, guaranteed. www. youtube.com/user/ mikehughesworkingdog/ videos 07 315 5553. SMITHFIELD PUPS, bobtail, from long working lines. $500. Phone 027 255 7217. SOUTH ISLANDERS shipping dogs down there 26/1/19. Trial, guaranteed! www.youtube.com/user/ mikehughesworkingdog/ videos 07 315 5553.

GOATS WANTED

FREE CRATE OF Beer! With any dog purchase! North Island buying trip 26/1/19. 07 315 5553, 021 030 0037 Mike Hughes. SERIOUS BUYER buying NZ wide. No trial or breeding required. No one buys or pays more! 07 315 5553, 021 030 0037. Mike Hughes. BOOK AN AD. For only $2.10 + gst per word you can book a word only ad in Farmers Weekly Classifieds section. Phone Debbie Brown on 0800 85 25 80 to book in or email classifieds@globalhq.co.nz

FARM MAPPING YOUR FARM MAPPED showing paddock sizes. Priced from $600 for 100ha. Phone 0800 433 855. farmmapping.co.nz

w w w. e l e c t r o t e k . c o . n z

GOATS WANTED. All weights. All breeds. Prompt service. Payment on pick up. My on farm prices will not be beaten. Phone David Hutchings 07 895 8845 or 0274 519 249. Feral goats mustered on a 50/50 share basis.

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

PERSONAL

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

ZON BIRDSCARER

electro-tek@xtra.co.nz

Phone: +64 6 357 2454

DE HORNER

HOOF TRIMMER

EARMARKERS

CLASSIFIEDS

REACH EVERY FARMER IN NZ FROM MONDAY Advertise in the NZ Farmers Weekly $2.10 + GST per word - Please print clearly

HOUSEKEEPER, COOK, live-in required. Top of the South Island. Phone 027 391 1626.

PROPERTY WANTED

Name: Phone: Address:

HOUSE FOR REMOVAL wanted. North Island. Phone 021 0274 5654.

Email: Heading: Advert to read:

We could save you hundreds of $$

on your behalf.

HOMES FARM SHEDS SUBDIVISIONS PUMPS

No worries as we’ll do all the hard work for you around health and safety, resource consent application and management. Harvesting and trucking.

Prices include delivery to your door!

GUARANTEED PAYMENTS

For friendly & professional advice CALL 0800 843 0987 Fax: 07 843 0992 Email: power@thecableshop.co.nz THE CABLE SHOP WAIKATO www.thecableshop.co.nz

Call or email Aaron West 027 562 3832 aaron@treetec.co.nz

Standard price $1690 (GST incl) Including tie down rail (as shown) $1990 (GST incl) Custom builds are available • Shipping costs additional if required

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Introducing our new large flatdeck dog box Dimensions 1600w x 900d x 600h

wfmcanopies.co.nz • 07 307 2333 • office@wfmltd.co.nz

CRAIGCO SENSOR JET • Robust construction • Auto shut gate • Total 20 jets • Lambs only 5 jets • Side jets for lice

• Adjustable V panels • Davey Twin Impellor Pump • 6.5 or 10hp motors

Save time and money – flystrike and lice cost $$$ Guaranteed performance Quick to set up – easy to use – job done SHEEP JETTERS SINCE 1992

Return this form either by fax to 06 323 7101 attention Debbie Brown Post to Farmers Weekly Classifieds, PO Box 529, Feilding 4740 - by 12pm Wednesday or Freephone 0800 85 25 80

Ph 06 835 6863 Mob 021 061 1800 Jetter video: www.craigcojetters.co.nz

Livestock DAIRY SHEEP GENETICS

STAY OUT FRONT

with Farmers Weekly

Wanted for January 2020 delivery Autumn calving Frsn & FrsnX Complete Autumn Herds In-calf carry over cows In-calf heifers (2018 born)

Have ewe heard the most successful place to advertise your livestock is in Farmers Weekly? To advertise Phone Nigel 0800 85 25 80 or email livestock@globalhq.co.nz

All stock must be well grown with good records (single herd codes preferred). Our purchaser would like to nominate a calving date with the option to supply their own bulls at mating. A Carrfields Forward Sale Contract will be completed for a January 2020 delivery. Contact: Philip Webb 027 801 8057 Central & Sothern NI Dairy Coordinator

or: Richard Andrews 027 5368693 Dairy Agent Canterbury

www.carrfieldslivestock.co.nz

High yielding imported bloodlines

190 Fr CRV Herd NZMI 50.6 DTC 17/7 35 yrs CRV,strong udders, Low input System 1 $1800. 153 In-Milk 2-6yr Very Fertile OAD Xbred Cows. BW82 PW101 RA95%. DTC 20/7. Web Ref DH1247 Young Herd, 2-6yr olds. $1650 Paul Kane: 027 286 9279 National Dairy Coordinator

Contact Art & Jill Eastham 027 419 8768 www.talla.co.nz

220 F CRV Herd BW38 PW59 RA82% DTC 1/8 Web Ref DH1205 Very tidy herd, Great udders, System 1 $2000. 420 Xbred Cows BW66 PW87 DTC 25/7. Web Ref DH1228, low SCC, Hawkes Bay $1800. 170 XBred Cows BW98 PW104 RA98% DTC 1/8. Web Ref DH1238 Closed Herd for 40 years. Can be purchased in-milk 1st March Del. $2000. 220 F/FX Herd BW73 PW65 RA89% DTC 24/7. Web Ref DH1250 Well-bred herd on rolling/steep farm, great production with low SCC $1950. Philip Webb: 027 801 8057

Late one evening, Norm’s doorbell rang. When he answered the door, he found a six-foot-tall cockroach standing in front of him.

Central & Southern North Island Dairy Coordinator

South Island Herds & Heifers 490 A2A2 Jsy Herd BW47 PW58 DTC 10/8. Web Ref DH1220 100% A2A2 DNA tested herd. Low SCC, young herd on dry farm, 375ms/cow. 460 FX/J Herd BW82 PW101 RA92% DTC 1/8. Web Ref DH1242 System 1, Bred for fertility & udders, good age structure. $2085 180 F/FX Herd BW51 PW83 DTC 1/8. Web Ref DH1223 Managers cows, low SCC $1950 118 FX I/C Heifers BW126 PW124 DTC 24/7 $1750

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OF THE MOB

Spring Calving Herds

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We can purchase standing trees,

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

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 21, 2019

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Classifieds

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

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www.carrfieldslivestock.co.nz

SALE TALK

The bug grabbed Norm by the collar, punched him in the eye, threw him across the living room and then ran off. The next day, Norm went to see his doctor to have his bruised eye examined. “Ah, yes,” the doctor said when Norm explained what had happened to him. “There’s a nasty bug going around.”

• •

Many cows contracted to LIC for 2011 matings Due to calve from 16-7-12, 6.5 weeks AB Jersey and Kiwi cross FARMERS WEEKLY – January 21, 2019 • Estimated to be 420 cows after non pregnant, culls, older cows & 5% rejection • Production last season 347kgs ms/cow, and 1000kgs Autumn ms/ha, Calving on rollingcows to steeper STOCK REQUIRED contoured farm, no meal, palm kernel or STORE LAMBS heifers for Sale maize fed. FRIES BULL CALVES 130-150kg Jersey cows, 10, average BW 135, due from 12/3/19 • Young replacement stock also available until 16/4/19 to Jersey bulls. 330-400kg 15 MTH FRIES BULLS Jersey and Crossbred cows, 50, due from 3/3/19, in 15MTH ANG & AHX STEERS 360-400kg Outstanding genetics & potential to be one of calf to Wagyu and Angus bulls. 300-400kg 15MTH BEEF HEIFERSthe countries leading suppliers of Genetics to Friesian heifers, well grown, recorded, from 2YR BEEF STEERS 450-600kg the dairy industry for 20, years to come. Fullduedetails 5/3/19 to Wagyu bull. REARING CONTRACT available.

Livestock

JULY Supply

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Other lines of cows also available. Spring calving

AUTUMN FRIES HERE BULL CALVES Enquiriesherds to the sole marketing and heifers for June deliveryagents: also available.

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

Contact Brian Robinson

Brian Robinson BRLL Ph 0272 410 051 PH: 0272 410051 or 07 8583132

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

Gary Falkner Jersey Marketing Service PH: 027 482 8771 or 07 846 4491

LIVESTOCK ADVERTISING

Piquet Hill Inaugural Steer and Heifer Sale

with Farmers Weekly PHONE NIGEL RAMSDEN 0800 85 25 80

Forest Range Merinos offers 1500 5-shear ultra-fine Merino Ewes

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This is a unique opportunity to acquire superior guaranteed footrot-free ewes.

Frankton Saleyards Thursday, 24th January 2019, 11.00am 70 Poll Dorsets 40 Suffolks 12 South Downs 25 Texel / Texel x 4 South Suffolks 40 Romneys 8 Perendales 2 Border Leicester Cam Heggie (PGW) 0275 018 182 Brent Bougen (NZF) 0272 104 698

Your source for PGG Wrightson livestock and farming listings MATAWHERO CATTLE FAIR Tuesday, 12th February 2019, 11.00am A/C Morunga Station - Matawai 600 2 1/2 yr Steers Ang/AngX & Exotic hill country Steers Contact: Tony Blackwood 0272 0431 858

PRELIMINARY NOTICE Isola Herefords Dispersal Sale Saturday 6th April 2019 Ms Diane Murdoch, Kidd Road, Waiuku Comprising approx: 31 R2yr in-calf heifers, 73 MA in-calf cows, 4 MA herd sires Enquiries to PGG Wrightson Cam Heggie 027 5018182, Kane Needham 027 8393612, vendor Diane Murdoch 021 419297

170 Autumn-born WF R1 Heifers 300 18-month Angus and WF Heifers 200 18-month Angus and WF Steers

WAIKATO PREMIER RAM FAIR

Available end of January off shears.

Inquiries to 03 445 2833 demmerson@xtra.co.nz or www.forestrange.co.nz

12pm – 14th February 2019 887 Te Akau Road, Ngaruawahia

• • • •

All weights available prior Rebate to all pre-registered agents 14 day payment terms Light lunch provided prior to sale commencing

All inquiries to Will Jackson Phone 07 825 4480 or 027 739 9939

Key: Dairy

Cattle

Sheep

Other

WAIKATO HERDS 350 Frsn Frsn x Cows, BW96, PW114,RA98% DTC 12/7, I/C Nom LIC Frsn, 430 m/solids $2000.00 neg, Chris Ryan 072 431 078 290 Frsn Frsn x Cows, BW96, PW125, RA99% DTC 19/7, I/C LIC Frsn 5 weeks, 400 m/solids Closed Herd $1850.00 Regan Craig 0275 028 585 210 Frsn Frsn x Cows, BW91, PW108, RA100% DTC 20/7, I/C LIC Frsn 4 weeks, 360 m/solids 24yrs ownership, $1900.00 Allan Jones 0272 240 768 175 Jsy Cows, BW126, PW169, RA95%, DTC 16/7 I/C LIC, Amb 6 weeks, 350 m/solids, Jersey content $1850.00, Andrew Reyland 0272 237 092 162 X/X Cows, BW44, PW92, RA99%, DTC 25/7 I/C 4.5 weeks Amb, 385 m/solids, closed herd, 34yrs ownership, $1850.00 Jason Roberts 0272 431 429 160 Frsn Frsn x Cows, BW84, PW79, RA99% DTC 15/7, I/C LIC Frsn 4 weeks, 330 m/solids, G3 profiled, $2000.00 neg Todd van Berlo 0275 297 748

WAIROA CATTLE FAIR

PURIRI WILTSHIRES

Preliminary Notice 31/01/2019 at 11am. Entries include: A/c Cricklewood Stn 1001.5yr Angus Strs A/c Okare Stn 150 1.5yr Angus Strs A/c Te Tiki Stn 80 1.5yr Angus Strs A/c Mahurangi Stn 70 2.5yr Angus Strs 200 1.5yr Strs 200 2.5yr Heifers 140 1.5yr Heifers 60 1.5yr Hereford Heifers 50 1.5yr Hereford Bulls Enquires: Ian Rissetto 06 838 8604, 0274 449 347 Mason Birrell 06 838 7091, 0274 967 253 Hamish Forrester 0276 012 351

Tuesday 12th February Tuakau Saleyards 12 Noon 70 2th Wiltshire Rams, 200 Wiltshire Ram Lambs, 350 Wiltshire Ewe Lambs, 200 Wiltshire Coopworth X Ewe Lambs. Sheep bred for their shedding ability, farmed on an exposed coastal property.

Lock it in!

List your dairy herd now. pggwrightson.co.nz/dairyherdsales

Enquiries to PGG Wrightson Cam Heggie 027 5018182, Dave Munro 027 5904825, vendor Brook Johnstone 09 232 9875

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

Helping grow the country

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www.dyerlivestock.co.nz

Ross Dyer 0274 333 381

MARKET SNAPSHOT

Market Snapshot brought to you by the AgriHQ analysts.

Suz Bremner

Nicola Dennis

Mel Croad

Cattle

Reece Brick

Caitlin Pemberton

Sheep

BEEF

Deer

SHEEP MEAT

VENISON

Last week

Prior week

Last year

NI Steer (300kg)

5.45

5.40

NI lamb (17kg)

7.15

7.30

6.85

NI Stag (60kg)

10.20

10.70

NI Bull (300kg)

5.05

5.10

5.25

NI mutton (20kg)

5.00

4.90

4.50

SI Stag (60kg)

10.20

10.70

NI Cow (200kg)

4.00

3.90

4.00

SI lamb (17kg)

7.10

6.80

SI Steer (300kg)

5.20

5.30

SI mutton (20kg)

4.95

4.50

SI Bull (300kg)

5.00

5.15

Export markets (NZ$/kg)

SI Cow (200kg)

3.90

4.15

UK CKT lamb leg

8.80

8.78

9.11

US imported 95CL bull

6.95

6.57

US domestic 90CL cow

6.58

6.46

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

Last week Prior week

Last year

North Island lamb slaughter price

10 9 8 7

5.5

7.0 6.0 5.0

4.0

South Island lamb slaughter price

9.0

5.0 $/kg CW

South Island steer slaughter price

6.0 $/kg CW

Oct

Dec 5-yr ave

Feb

5-yr ave

Jun

2017-18

Aug 2018-19

Last year

Coarse xbred ind.

2.90

2.83

2.74

37 micron ewe

2.75

$/tonne

6.0

Apr-18

Jun-18 Sept. 2019

Aug-18

Oct-18 Sept. 2020

Last year

Urea

650

520

2.83

Super

319

315

303

DAP

835

813

752

Company

Nearby contract

Last price*

370

Dec-17

Feb-18

Apr-18

Jun-18

Aug-18

Oct-18

Dec-18

CANTERBURY FEED BARLEY Prior week

vs 4 weeks ago

440

2830

2755

2790

420

SMP

2270

2200

2100

400

AMF

5210

5100

4900

Butter

4250

4180

3810

Milk Price

6.19

6.07

6.05

$/tonne

WMP

380

$/tonne

2800

Feb

Mar Apr Latest price

May Jun 4 weeks ago

Jul

YTD Low 3.38

The a2 Milk Company Limited

12.45

12.49

10.42

Auckland International Airport Limited

7.31

7.35

7.065

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corporation Ltd

14.1

14.16

12.74

Spark New Zealand Limited

4.05

4.18

4.04

Ryman Healthcare Limited

11.1

11.5

10.68 3.51

Mercury NZ Limited (NS)

3.595

3.64

Contact Energy Limited

6.12

6.2

5.82

Fletcher Building Limited

4.97

5.06

4.78

Air New Zealand Limited (NS)

3.245

3.04

Listed Agri Shares

5pm, close of market, Thursday

Company

YTD High

YTD Low

The a2 Milk Company Limited

12.45

12.49

10.42

Comvita Limited

4.77

4.83

4.5

Delegat Group Limited

9.81

9.96

9.81

Fonterra Shareholders' Fund (NS)

4.68

4.85

4.61

Foley Wines Limited

1.5

1.47 0.75

0.75

2.2

2.28

2.2

340

PGG Wrightson Limited

0.49

0.51

0.49

Sanford Limited (NS)

6.88

6.92

6.6

Scales Corporation Limited

4.42

4.5

4.37 0.002

Feb-18

Apr-18

Jun-18

Aug-18

Oct-18

Dec-18

SeaDragon Limited

0.002

0.003

Seeka Limited

4.27

4.32

4.25

Synlait Milk Limited (NS)

9.9

8.86

T&G Global Limited

350

2900

3.61

New Zealand King Salmon Investments Ltd

WAIKATO PALM KERNEL

3000

YTD High

3.59

Livestock Improvement Corporation Ltd (NS)

Dec-17

WMP FUTURES - VS FOUR WEEKS AGO

Meridian Energy Limited (NS)

360 320

* price as at close of business on Thursday

NZ average (NZ$/t)

Top 10 by Market Cap

420

320

Dec-18

DAIRY FUTURES (US$/T)

2700

5.00

Prior week

CANTERBURY FEED WHEAT

6.5

Feb-18

Aug 2018-19

Last week

470

5.5

Jun

Fertiliser

Aug 2018-19

Prior week

7.0

$/kg MS

Jun

Grain

Data provided by

MILK PRICE FUTURES

US$/t

Apr 2017-18

Last week

30 micron lamb

Dairy

Apr 2017-18

FERTILISER

(NZ$/kg) Apr

Feb

5-yr ave

WOOL

Feb

Dec

5.0

Dec

Oct

6.0

4.0

Oct

8 6

7.0

5.5

4.5

9 7

8.0 4.5

South Island stag slaughter price

$/kg CW

6.0

Last year

North Island stag slaughter price

8.0 $/kg CW

North Island steer slaughter price

Last week Prior week

Export markets (NZ$/kg) 9.0

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

$/kg CW

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

Ingrid Usherwood

300

2.87

S&P/NZX Primary Sector Equity

15718

15063

S&P/NZX 50 Index

9078

8732

S&P/NZX 10 Index

8687

8280

250 200

Dec-17

S&P/FW PRIMARY SECTOR EQUITY

Feb-18

Apr-18

Jun-18

Aug-18

Oct-18

Dec-18

15718

S&P/NZX 50 INDEX

9078

S&P/NZX 10 INDEX

8687

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019 SI SLAUGHTER STAG ( $/KG)

10.20

NI SLAUGHTER LAMB ( $/KG)

7.15

NI SLAUGHTER MUTTON ( $/KG)

5.00

YEARLING FRIESIAN BULLS, 325-345KG, AT STORTFORD LODGE ( $/KG LW)

3.22

DON’T STOP HERE... If you love the information you get from these pages, you will love AgriHQ’s livestock reports.

LivestockEye SOLD: Methven farmer Mark Davey, left, saw a dollar to be made in the sheep industry as he bought up large at the annual Snowdon Station on-farm lamb sale. Photo: Annette Scott

Lamb prices exorbitant BUYERS at the 24th annual Rakaia Gorge lamb sales hope prices hold up this season with lambs going under the hammer at record high prices. Agents and farmers alike acknowledged the strong demand for store lambs right across the board, reflecting a booming industry with sheep on a high. Favourable weather has created an abundance of grass that is driving exceptional demand for both store lambs and capital stock. Pushed by the continuing strong demand for store lambs in Canterbury, buyers bid up briskly on the 10,000

lambs offered at High Peak and Snowdon Stations to ensure they didn’t miss out. Lighter lambs, in particular, fetched what were described as exorbitant prices. “We realise we have paid dear enough but we got them,” buyer Geoff Wright said. Wright bought big numbers at the High Peak sale. “All these are going into Mid Canterbury, targeted as winter trade lambs. “Hopefully, the price will stay up and we will get an outcome in the winter.” High Peak farm operations manager Hamish Guild was delighted with this year’s sale. “This will be the best average we have

Finer wool shows its colours at auction Alan Williams alan.williams@globalhq.co.nz BETTER coloured lamb’s wool had a good bounce at Thursday’s Napier action. At the finer end, 27-micron fleece rose 10% on the falling price of a week earlier, with 30-micron also selling well and other offerings also selling well. Finer lamb’s wool volumes are reducing as the season progresses and the market was keen secure stocks, PGG Wrightson’s North Island auctioneer Steve Fussell said. There was a good market tone, though second-shear fleece was mainly lower in price. Second-shear bellies and pieces were up about 6% in price. There seems to have been some business secured for higher coloured wools coming to auction and these sold at steady levels, Fussell said. Three lines of merino wool attracted

‘‘extremely hot competition’’, going to a South Island buyer. The overall pass-in rate was just 2%. Principal buyers were from the United Kingdom, western Europe, the Middle east, India, China, and Australia, as well as the New Zealand carpet mills. NAPIER SALE In micron level, price per kg/clean. Full wool (good-to-average colour): 34 micron, $3.05kg/clean, down 27c; 37, $3.02, up 2c. Cross-bred second shear: 35 micron, 2-to-3 inches, $2.75kg/ clean, down 34c; 37, 3-to-4 inches, $2.76, down 32c; 2-to-3 inches, $2.85, down 16c; 39, 3-to-5 inches, $3.06, up 10c; 2-to-3 inches, $2.90, down 11c. Lamb’s wool: 27 micron, 2-to-3 inches, $7.34kg/ clean, up 7c; 28, 2-to-3 inches, $6.30, up 35c; 29, 2-to-3 inches, $5.75, up 1c; 30, 2-to-3 inches, $5.60, up 27c.

We realise we have paid dear enough but we got them. Geoff Wright Farmer had in the 24 years we have been having the sale. It’s been a good season and this really shows the confidence in the sheep industry. “We’re still ironing out the highs and lows but certainly maintaining momentum to keep the NZ flock up,” Guild said. At High Peak the Suffolk-Perendale mixed sex lambs sold up to $141 while Perendale cryptorchids ranged from $107-$121 and ewe lambs $101-$110, all well up on last year’s prices. At Snowdon the tops of the SuffolkPerendale mixed sex lambs sold from $147-$167 while the genuine store lines sold from $114-$134. Ewe lambs sold from $144-$161 while the Perendale cryptorchid lambs ranged from $105 to $143. Methven farmer and businessman Mark Davey bought up large at the Snowdon sale. He said the fully firm prices reflected the quality of the stock and the general confidence in sheep. “The outlook is positive for the sheep meat industry and that gives farmers confidence moving forward. “Nobody can predict for how far forward but medium term and potentially longer term it’s looking good and these sales indicate that confidence,” Davey said. Hazlett livestock auctioneer Ed Marfell said the properties had earned their reputation, year in year out, and the lambs offered, despite being driven by the grass market, were traditionally well sought after. “It’s certainly helps when the industry is riding on a high too.”

Livestock Insight

Every week, we explain the context of the current market situation, drivers which are impacting the livestock markets and what to expect in the coming week.

Livestock Outlook

For those who want to see and understand forecasting, this monthly report projects farmer operating prices six months ahead and supports these prices with analysis of supply/demand, procurement factors, key export markets and exchange rate effects.

INDEPENDENT • OBJECTIVE TRUSTED • WORTHY Discover how we can help you keep up to date with market conditions.

agrihq.co.nz 0800 85 25 80

2476AGHQ

Annette Scott annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz

We create transparency for the industry with these independent, objective reports providing full sale results and informed commentary covering 10 saleyards across NZ that are emailed directly after the sale.

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

Record levels at Rakaia Gorge The 24th annual Rakaia Gorge lamb sales posted record levels but buyers were prepared to tackle the heights in order to secure numbers. 10,000 sold between High Peak and Snowden Stations, with most heading to Mid Canterbury. NORTHLAND Wellsford store cattle sale • All two-year steers of Hereford origin, 518-666kg, traded at $2.80$2.85/kg • Two-year Hereford-Friesian heifers, 429kg, returned $2.79/kg • Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 342-353kg, strengthened to $3.34-$3.44/kg • Yearling Hereford-cross heifers, 332-386kg eased to $2.71-$2.84/kg • Autumn-born weaner heifers, 218kg, earned $710 Throughput lifted at WELLSFORD last Monday with just on 640 cattle yarded, and yearling steers made up the largest portion. Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 380-436kg, made good values at $3.14-$3.32/kg, while Angus-Friesian, 378-425kg, returned $3.09-$3.23/kg. Hereford -cross, 321-385kg, lifted to $3.09-$3.29/kg, while Simmental-cross, 386-408kg, earned $3.06-$3.25/kg. Yearling Friesian bulls, 377-450kg, lifted to $2.73-$2.77/ kg, while Jersey, 351kg, managed $2.36/kg. Weaner Angus-Friesian steers, 107-117kg, traded at $465$570, while Hereford-cross heifers, 115-194kg, earned $560$755, and Hereford-Friesian, 101-117kg, $470-$565. Beefdairy bulls sold to per head budgets with Angus-Friesian, 98-140kg, earning $420-$450, and Hereford-Friesian, 103-161kg, $500-$555. Friesian bulls, 115-166kg, sold well at $510-$600, and autumn-born, 200-210kg, $610-$640. Kaikohe cattle sale • Two-year beef and beef-cross heifers firmed to $2.85-$2.95/kg • Two-year beef-cross steers sold well with the tops making $2.90$2.95/kg • Weaner Friesian bulls, 150-160kg, were strong at $620-$630 Vendors breathed a sigh of relief as the market at KAIKOHE last Wednesday sprang to life. Better cattle sold on a firm market and a highlight was two-year beef and beef-cross heifers, PGG Wrightson agent Vaughan Vujcich reported. Two-year Friesian-cross steers proved to be harder to move and made $2.55-$2.58/kg, while 18-month Friesian bulls received $2.82/kg, and Hereford-cross, $2.85/kg. In the weaner pens Friesian bulls were chased and those around 100kg made $480-$520, while beef-cross earned $550-$560. Beef-cross heifers battled, selling for $400-$430. Friesian-cross cows sold for $1.65/kg.

AUCKLAND Pukekohe cattle sale • Prime heifers sold for $2.67-$2.80/kg • Two-year crossbred steers in medium condition made $2.73$2.76/kg • 18-month heifers in medium condition made $2.64-$2.80/kg • Good weaner steers sold for $580-$670, and heifers, $530-$645 The first sale at PUKEKOHE on Saturday 12th January was well supported by buyers as grass drove demand. Quality was mixed but prices were strong relative to type. Boner cows sold for $1.45-$1.65/kg, and cows with calves, $1380. Bulls reached $2000 to sell for $2.75/kg. In the store pens 15-month crossbred steers varied from $2.60/kg up to $3.09/kg, while small yearlings returned $590-$750. The better weaners sold well, while smallmedium crossbred steers made $405-$530, and heifers, $300-$470.

COUNTIES Tuakau sales • 15-month Hereford-Friesian steers made $3.16-$3.47/kg • Angus steers, 360-410kg, reached $3.41/kg • Heavy prime steers returned $2.82-$2.83/kg • Top ewes sold up to $202 Tuakau hosted two steer fairs last week and the market at both was strong, Karl Chitham of Carrfields Livestock reported. There was plenty of interest in good beef steers last Tuesday. Good buyer turnout and a shortage of cattle ensured healthy competition, with most Angus steers in the 360-410kg range making $3.28-$3.41/kg. Limousin steers, 400kg, earned $3.89/kg, $1550. About 1200 dairy-beef steers were presented last Thursday. The yarding was dominated by 15-month Hereford-Friesian and Angus-Friesian at 300-340kg, with most trading at $3.16-$3.47/kg, averaging over $1000. Last Wednesday’s prime sale drew a small yarding. Heavy steers, 650-680kg, returned $2.82-$2.83/kg and heifers, 475-

530kg, $2.70-$2.75/kg. Angus beef cows at 589kg fetched $2.04/kg and Friesian, 530-570kg, $1.68-$1.87/kg. Hereford bulls, 700kg, made $2.72/kg. Good-medium prime lambs made $127-$159 last Monday and stores $36-$112. Heavy ewes sold for $163$202, medium $124-$147 and light $64-$91.

WAIKATO Frankton dairy beef weaner fair • Hereford-Friesian steers, 111-156kg, lifted to $645-$750 • Hereford-Friesian heifers earned $430-$510 • Top quality Angus bulls, 142kg, returned $692 • Hereford-Friesian bulls, 106-123kg, were steady at $615-$655 Throughput swelled to just over 1860 at FRANKTON for the first weaner fair of 2019. Heifers all sold outside and most sold on a strong market with Angus-cross returning $410-$480, and red HerefordFriesian, $400-$460. Angus bulls, 108-118kg, strengthened to $500-$550, with Angus-cross, 119-126kg, matching their returns. HerefordFriesian bulls, 101-104kg, eased for most to $412-$585, though 86-94kg were steady at $525-$570. Red HerefordFriesian, 139kg, were steady at $425, though 115-118kg softened to $440-$445, as did most 91-100kg down to $330$345. Heavier Friesian bulls strengthened and 122-135kg returned $520-$560 for the majority, though 122kg pushed further to $610, while 99-115kg maintained levels of $405$515. Frankton prime and store cattle sale • Two-year Hereford-Friesian steers, 507-531kg, lifted to $2.98$2.90/kg • Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 269-328kg, were firm at $3.41$3.55/kg • Yearling Angus-cross heifers, 270kg, lifted to $3.11/kg • Prime Hereford bulls, 622-775kg, sold well at $2.79-$2.94/kg • Prime Angus cows, 607kg, fetched $2.24/kg FRANKTON’S yarding increased to 640 cattle last Wednesday with the prime section particularly strong. Hereford-Friesian steers, 572-725kg, lifted to $2.86-$2.92/ kg, while all heifers, 453-505kg, maintained levels of $2.80$2.83/kg. Ten Jersey bulls, 475-476kg, firmed to $2.41-$2.44/ kg, and Friesian boner cows, 510-560kg, lifted to $1.75-$1.96/kg. Yearling cattle dominated the store section, with low entries of two-year. Hereford-Friesian heifers, 382-393kg, were steady at $2.77-$2.79/kg. Yearling Hereford-cross steers were also steady at $3.11$3.28/kg, and Hereford-Jersey, 269-328kg, $3.06-$3.25/ kg. Hereford-Friesian, 306-373kg, eased to $3.04-$3.10/kg, while 236kg pushed to $3.71/kg. Yearling Charolais-cross heifers, 264kg, improved to $3.14/kg, with beef-cross, 278-286kg, at $2.80-$2.81/kg. Autumn-born Friesian-cross weaner bulls, 233kg, managed steady returns at $650.

BAY OF PLENTY Rangiuru cattle and sheep sale • Three-year Angus & Hereford bulls, 698-716kg, made $2.79$2.81/kg • Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 285-320kg, firmed to $3.07/kg • Weaner Hereford-Friesian heifers, 95-105kg, eased to $405-$445 • Prime lambs sold for $122-$155 • Medium to good store lambs earned $81-$144 The RANGIURU sale offered up an array of colour last Tuesday, with few clean lines despite 700 store cattle penned. Cattle sold well relative to type, though areas of the sale did have a softer tone. Ex-service bulls featured and two-year Friesian, 510562kg, earned $2.58-$2.59/kg, and Jersey, 468-475kg, $2.29$2.33/kg. Most yearlings were Hereford-Friesian or Hereford-Jersey though mixed in colour. Hereford-Jersey steers, 353-383kg, eased to $2.85-$2.92/kg. Hereford-Friesian heifers, 281-334kg, also eased to $3.02-$3.09/kg and Angus-Friesian, 317-390kg dropped to $2.72-$2.78/kg. Weaners lost ground and Hereford-Friesian steers, 106-146kg, made $525-$590, and Hereford-Jersey, 158162kg, $500-$525. Hereford-Jersey heifers, 90-107kg, fell to $335-$370, and Friesian bulls, 142-148kg, returned $460$495. Prime volume was low, and beef-cross and beef-Friesian steers and heifers, 518-571kg, sold for $2.76-$2.87/kg.

TARANAKI Taranaki cattle sale and ewe fair • Top Romney two-tooth’s sold for $235 • Best of the five-year ewes made $190-$191 • Prime Hereford-Friesian steers, 590-740kg, eased to $2.89/kg • Yearling Hereford-cross heifers, 282-333kg, eased to $2.78-$2.84/kg Yearling Friesian bulls, 341-378kg, returned $2.74-$2.79/kg The annual ewe fair and lamb sale at TARANAKI last Wednesday was supported by local and South Taranaki buyers, as well as Manawatu and Waikato. Results were pleasing, with few five-year ewes selling below $160. Lamb prices were strong with the top lines making $100-$120, and mixed sex hogget lambs, $60-$85. The cattle sale could not match fair prices from the week prior, though relative to type lines still sold well. Steers made up the bulk of the yearling section and Angus & Angus-Hereford, 308-360kg, sold $950-$1140, with a 316kg line making $3.35/kg. For most other better lines of beefcross and beef-Friesian $2.95-$3.08/kg was common, with lesser lines dropping to $2.70-$2.90/kg. Heifers were more consistent in type and Angus-Friesian, 315-445kg, firmed to $2.79/kg, while six Devon, 332kg, sold to $2.88/kg. Friesian bulls, 341-378kg, made $2.74-$2.79/kg.

HAWKE’S BAY Stortford Lodge prime cattle and sheep sale • Angus heifers, 515-650kg, sold well at $2.85-$2.86/kg • Very heavy mixed sex lambs were steady at $155.50-$172 • Heavy lambs eased to $143.25-$146 • Good ewes were steady at $131.50-$140 • Medium and medium-good ewes eased to $122-$130 Fifty cattle were yarded at STORTFORD LODGE last Monday with heifers dominating, and Hereford-Friesian, 629kg, returned $2.80/kg. A small number of good quality lambs were penned with results mixed throughout. Four very heavy mixed sex lambs topped the sale at $205.50, and medium-good types improved to $130-$136. Lighter lambs were steady at $115$120, while good ewe lambs managed $134, and lighter, $105. Ewe throughput lifted to 2200 and were predominantly second and third cuts. A small top end softened to $180, with heavy ewes steady at $140-$144. Light-medium types eased to $110-$115, and the tail end managed $76-$104.50. Stortford Lodge store cattle and sheep sale • Good blackface ewe lambs made $115.50-$126 • Very woolly, light-medium Romney wether lambs sold for $105$113 • Two-year Hereford-Friesian steers, 326-416kg, made $3.22-$3.41/kg • Yearling Friesian bulls, 332-325kg, lifted to $3.19-$3.25/kg • Weaner Angus heifers, 238-286kg, made $900-$1065 Just over 2400 lambs ventured forward at STORTFORD LODGE last Wednesday, with half the yarding one consignment of Romney wether and ewe lambs. The top wethers made $121, and a big line of good types, $117.50. Light ewe lambs traded at $96-$104. Blackface ram lambs returned $124.50-$128, though were bettered by very heavy mixed sex blackface which made $128.50-$163.50. There were very few ‘like’ pens in the 600 head cattle yarding, which meant an array of prices. Ex-service bulls featured, and Jersey, 493-566kg, made $2.55-$2.64/kg, while traditional, 608-633kg, returned $2.88-$2.89/kg. Friesian cows, 462-572kg, returned $2.01-$2.03/kg. A feature line of yearling Limousin steers, 392kg, made $3.76/kg, and their sisters, 349kg, $3.31/kg. Angus bulls, 427-515kg, fetched $1380-$1505. Two small pens of weaner Angus steers, 233-293kg, made $970-$1250.

MANAWATU Rongotea cattle sale • Two-year Hereford-Friesian steers, 475-745kg, made $2.75-$2.96/ kg • Two-year Hereford bulls, 580-775kg, sold up to $2.98/kg • Jersey bulls, 400-565kg, made $2.30-$2.43/kg • Yearling Angus bulls, 487-522kg, earned $2.99-$3.27/kg • Yearling Hereford bulls, 480-535kg, fetched $3.10-$3.81/kg Large numbers of ex-service bulls at RONGOTEA last Wednesday was not unexpected, but spirited bidding exceeded expectations, New Zealand Farmers Livestock agent John Watson reported. Two-year Angus bulls, 557-660kg, sold for $2.89-$3.00/kg. Nearly all yearlings were bulls and traditional lines sold for breeding. Friesian, 330-500kg, made $2.90/kg, while Jersey, 315-422kg, earned $2.38-$2.48/kg. Weaners made up the balance of the sale and Friesian bulls, 112-205kg, made $400-$600 and Hereford-Friesian, 95-165kg, $470-$600. Hereford-Friesian heifers, 95-136kg, traded at $460-$625, and Angus-cross, 122-200kg, $440$560. Friesian boner cows, 428 -622kg, fetched $1.89/kg, and Hereford-Friesian, 422–675kg sold over $2.00/kg.

SALE YARD WRAP

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019

but all others were off that pace. Good lines of HerefordFriesian heifers, 398-416kg, reached $2.79-$2.81/kg, but a lesser line traded at $2.49/kg. Nine Saler bulls, 455kg, returned $1120. Weaner quality was mixed though each section had highlights. Hereford-Friesian steers, 135kg, made $585 and heifers, 123kg, $450. Mixed sex, 120-148kg, sat in the middle at $470-$530. Friesian bulls, 115-153kg, sold for $445-$535.

SOUTH-CANTERBURY

EYE IN THE SKY: A bird’s eye view of the Feilding sale yards as the PGW team pens up on Friday, January 11. Feilding prime cattle and sheep sale • Ex-service Jersey bulls, 495-526kg, firmed to $2.50-$2.58/kg • Ex-service Hereford bulls, 615-820kg, earned $2.88-$2.95/kg • Boner Friesian cows, 530-585kg, were steady at $1.83/kg • Heavy mixed sex lambs eased to $146-$169 • Medium to good ewes were steady at $118-$134 It was back to business at FEILDING last Monday, with volume up in all sections. Two buyers took ownership of the lambs and the market had a softer feel. Medium lambs made $129-$141.50, and small, $124.50-$126. Ewe prices remained steady with heavy lines up to $153-$175, and medium, $107-$115. The cattle sale featured ex-service bulls and extra buying power firmed prices. Angus, 560-850kg, returned $2.88$2.96/kg, while lighter Jersey, 421-490kg, made $2.40-$2.49/ kg. Friesian cows also came forward in bigger numbers and within a 535-602kg range second cuts made $1.77-$1.80/kg. Feilding ewe fair • Good to heavy two-tooth Romney made $229-$263 Coopworth two-tooth’s sold for $234-$260 Four-year Romney and Romdale made $200-$227 The top line of five-year Romney ewes made $202 Medium-good five-year Romney earned $170-$176 All eyes were on the sheep pens at FEILDING last Thursday as the breeding ewe fair took place. Close to 12,000 were offered and though prices were not as high as other fairs, two-tooth’s increased by a greater margin, making it equally as successful. Two-tooth’s gained $60$80 while older ewes lifted $40-$60. Top price for the fair was $263 for heavy Romney two-tooth’s, and just one line of two-tooth’s fell short of the $200 mark. Good five-year Romney sold for $186-$202, and medium Perendale, $136$164. Mixed age mostly sold for $189-$210, and six-year, $121-$176. Feilding dairy beef weaner fair • Hereford-Friesian bulls, 110-125kg lifted $15 to $655-$695 • Friesian bulls, 151-172kg, were strong at $600-$640 • Friesian bulls, 125-150kg, firmed to $550-$600 • Friesian bulls, 105-120kg, also firmed to $460-$540 • Hereford-Friesian heifers, 105-110kg, were steady at $480-$565 Grass-driven demand, and the fact that this was the last dairy-beef fair calendared for FEILDING drove prices up last Thursday. There was a full clearance of the 1500 head yarding, of which bulls made up 1000. Some beef-dairy bulls, 100-115kg, exceeded $6.00/kg and a number sold just off that level. Angus-Friesian, 122-125kg, were solid at $610-$660. Friesian bulls sold on a consistently firm market and easily slotted into three weight ranges. Heifer prices were steady and 112-128kg HerefordFriesian sold for $555-$580, while 141-145kg reached $610$670. Red Hereford-Friesian, 103-122kg, sold for $400-$450. Feilding store cattle and sheep sale • Good blackface ewe lambs made $119-$123 • Heavy cryptorchid lambs made mainly $123-$126 • Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 347-397kg made $3.99-$$3.45/ kg • Yearling Angus steers, 418-470kg, made $3.37-$3.40/kg • Yearling Angus and Angus-Hereford heifers, 284kg, lifted to $3.46-$3.82/kg The Feilding store cattle and sheep sale attracted a strong crowd. With a large sale last week, cattle numbers were a bit lighter this week. A number of two-year service bulls were on offer with Friesians steady at $2.97/kg, with good Hereford bulls 10-15c/kg above this and Jersey 509-515kg

at $2.26-$2.35/kg. Yearling heifer prices did well with some Angus and Angus/Herefords 284kg making $3.82/kg. Traditional two-year steer prices lifted to $3.04-$3.18/kg for 482-602kg. In the store lamb pens prices for heavy lambs stayed fairly steady on last week, with a top price of $138 for heavy cryptorchid whiteface lambs. Medium sized black face cryptorchid lambs made up to $124-$125. Light lambs mainly made $90-$110.

WAIRARAPA Masterton two-tooth and aged ewe fair • Top line of Romdale two-tooth’s made $278 • Most two-tooth’s traded at $240-$274 • Good and very good five-year Romney ewes made $200-$220 Ewe fair action moved to MASTERTON last Wednesday, where just over 9000 were on the books. Manawatu and locals dominated, and prices lifted $50 per head. The cheapest two-tooth’s were $220 for a line of Perendale, while most four and six-tooth to four-year ewes made $208$250. The five-year market was a highlight, and mediumgood made $174-$195, though interest eased on medium lines which earned $147-$171.

CANTERBURY Canterbury Park prime and store sale • Light to medium wether lambs made $94-$106 • Medium to good mixed sex lambs came back to $101-$113 • Very light mixed sex lambs made $69-$91 • Prime beef-cross steers, 595-645kg, firmed to $2.89/kg • Prime Hereford-Friesian steers, 525-675kg, were steady at $2.80$2.88/kg A bigger range of store lambs were penned at CANTERBURY PARK last Tuesday, though the market eased. Two buyers dominated and medium to good male lambs made $94-$112, with similar mixed sex at $80-$101. Light ewe lambs made $90-$95 and medium, $109-$118. Extra ewe numbers came forward due to weaning and a steady market meant two-tooth’s earned $133-$166. Very heavy mixed age sold to $200-$228, and good to heavy lines returned $148-$198. Light-medium to medium-good traded at $119-$145. The prime lamb market eased with most earning $120$159. Fewer than 100 cattle were penned with the majority steers. Prices were either steady to firm and exotic, 615760kg, took top spot at $2.94/kg. Most heifers were beefcross, or beef-Friesian and the better types sold to $2.85$2.91/kg, with local trade making $2.75-$2.86/kg. Coalgate cattle and sheep sale • Good mixed sex lambs were steady at $112-$121 • Prime lambs were steady at $122-$149 • Light to medium ewes firmed to $103-$134 • Prime beef-Friesian steers, 650-670kg, firmed to $2.86/kg • Yearling Friesian bulls, 323-381kg, made $2.52-$2.54/kg A change of sale day and little pressure to offload meant a quiet sale at COALGATE last Wednesday. 390 store lambs were offered and the second and third cuts made $75$107. Ewes had a better showing at 1000 head and good to heavy types remained steady at $140-$186 and $190-$208 respectively. In the prime cattle pens Angus and Hereford-Friesian steers, 648-653kg, reached $2.90-$2.91/kg, while beef-dairy heifers, 551-593kg, made $2.80-$2.82/kg. Boner cows, 545725kg, firmed to $1.73-$1.78/kg. Store volume was low and featured mainly bulls. Four yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 383kg, made $3.00/kg,

Temuka prime cattle and all sheep sale • Very light cryptorchid lambs made $92-$97.50 • Medium-good mixed sex lifted to $108-$115 • Prime Friesian bulls, 536-773kg, eased to $2.70-$2.79/kg • Ex-service Hereford bulls, 595-795kg, were steady at $2.86/kg. • Prime Hereford-cross steers, 525-720kg, eased to $2.73/kg Cattle swelled to 690 head as ex-service bulls joined larger entries of prime at TEMUKA last Monday. Just shy of 400 bulls were offered and Jersey, 501-540kg, eased to $2.56$2.66/kg, and 434-487kg, $2.44-$2.55/kg. Friesian cows lost ground as 530-704kg made $1.89-$1.96/kg, and 480-555kg, $1.70-$1.85/kg. Hereford-cross heifers, 510-625kg, eased to $2.69/kg, and 473-485kg, $2.58-$2.67/kg. Just over 4900 sheep were penned and most of the store lambs were light annual draft lines. Prices were very strong and despite the light weights at least $90 was needed to secure lines. Very light ewe lambs made $84-$88.50, and light to medium mixed sex, $89-$114. Light to medium cryptorchid sold for $102.50-$105.50. Prime prices were mixed, and lambs softened with most trading at $110-$148. Ewes were steady and heavy types made $170-$196, with a good portion medium to good types at $130-$168. Temuka dairy beef calf sale • Friesian bulls, 112-124kg, were steady at $385-$495 • Friesian bulls, 85-110kg, were also steady at $340-$440 • Hereford-Friesian steers, 100-106kg, firmed to $555-$700 • Hereford-Friesian heifers, 100-120kg, made steady returns at $490-$570 Just over 2300 calves flooded the TEMUKA sale yards last Thursday as the next round of calf sales was held. Vendor’s met the market and there were no lines passed in. Prices were mainly steady though there were lesser lines which sold well off the pace, such as 130-165kg Friesian bulls at $315-$420, while better lines made $465-$490. Friesian bull buyers worked to a $500 price ceiling and only a handful of lines exceeded it. Hereford-Friesian bulls came back in price, while Friesian-cross were unwanted and 105-150kg earned $250-$330. Hereford-Friesian heifers and steers sold on a positive market, with the heifers matching bull price in many cases.

OTAGO Balclutha sheep sale • Top store lambs remained steady at $115-$122 • Heavy prime lambs were steady at $145-$155 • Heavy prime ewes also sold on a steady market at $140-$160 There was a bit more volume to the BALCUTHA sale last Wednesday, though prices were very much in line with the previous week. A good gallery of buyers ensured a competitive environment, PGG Wrightson agent Russell Moloney reported, and medium store lambs made $100$110, with light lines at $80. A good yarding of prime lambs also sold on par, with second cuts making $120-$140, and third, $110-$120. Medium ewes returned $120-$135, and lighter, $95-$110. Rams made $90-$120.

SOUTHLAND Lorneville cattle and sheep sale • Heavy prime lambs eased to $139-$150 • Medium prime ewes eased to $126-$136 • Store lambs were steady with top lines at $105-$115 • Yearling Charolais-cross heifers, 328-400kg, earned $3.17$3.33/kg • Weaner Murray Grey-cross heifers, 115-124kg, sold for $480-$500 Results were mixed at LORNEVILLE last Tuesday. Prime sheep prices eased though store lambs held value. Medium prime lambs made $119-$133 and third cuts, $102-$114, while heavy ewes fetched $138-$160, and light, $90-$119. Very light ewes made $50-$70 and two-tooth’s, $68-$135. Store lamb results were on par as medium types sold for $95-$100, and light, $70-$90. The cattle pens were a lot busier, with large tallies in both sections. Prime beef steers and heifers, 500kg plus, traded at $2.70-$2.80/kg, while Friesian bulls, 500-560kg made $2.60/kg. Jersey bulls of similar weight matched that. Boner cows sold over a tight range as those from 400kg up to 500kg plus all sold for $1.60-$1.70/kg. Yearling Angus-cross steers, 370kg, made $3.18/kg, and their sisters, 278kg, $3.02/kg. Weaner Friesian bulls were steady as 130-150kg sold for $480-$500, and 100-120kg, $450. Crossbred, 120kg, returned $300-$350.

Markets

48 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 21, 2019 NI BULL

SI SLAUGHTER LAMB

COARSE WOOL INDICATOR

($/KG)

WEANER FRIESIAN BULLS, 130KG, AT FRANKTON WEANER FAIR

($/KG)

($/HD LW)

7.10

5.05

2.90

high $550-$600 lights Friesian bulls, 125-

$141-$167

Top Suffolk-Perendale 150kg, at Feilding Dairy mixed sex at Rakaia Gorge lamb sale Beef Weaner Fair

540

ACROSS THE RAILS SUZ BREMNER

HOW MANY: The PGW Livestock team counts the Pukekaka Station lambs coming off the truck at the Feilding sale yards.

Kill hits historic low Neal Wallace & Hugh Stringleman

MPLE pasture cover plunged slaughter numbers to historic lows from October to December but declining grass quality is expected to drive greater flows, albeit at lower prices. Slaughter numbers in the first quarter of the meat processing year (October to December) were at historically low levels but since the start of January Affco’s processing plants have filled up as conditions become drier, national livestock manager Tom Young said. Silver Fern Farms chief executive Simon Limmer said December schedules above $7 did not reflect market returns as processors inflated prices to attract stock. “Based on pure in-market returns we would have seen a schedule below $7 at Christmas as was forecast. The prices were unsustainable and Limmer expects a correction to reflect market returns and for stock flows to start picking up in the next six to eight weeks. “December would have been particularly poor for processors who were geared up for normal stock flows, which did not come forward,” he said. Invercargill consultant Deane Carson of Agribusiness Consultants said normally

by this time of year his clients would have killed 20% of their lambs but have so far they have killed only 12%, albeit at almost 0.5kg heavier. AgriHQ market analyst Mel Croad said December’s beef kill was also low with North Island bull beef peaking at 17,800 head a week compared to 22,000 a year earlier.

December would have been particularly poor for processors who were geared up for normal stock flows which did not come forward. Simon Limmer Silver Fern Farms Pre-Christmas lamb prices included procurement premiums and the schedule has already eased 30 to 40c/kg. Young said lamb schedule prices of $7.20-$7.25/kg might ease back a little more but they aren’t about to collapse.

Prime steers are $5.30/kg for the local market and a little more for export while export bulls are holding around $5. Alliance livestock and shareholder services manager Heather Stacy said even with increased stocking rates and more balage and silage being made, farmers are struggling to maintain pasture quality. Higher lambing percentages with more multiple births this season have meant lower birth weights and lambs taking longer to finish. AgriHQ Livestock Eye operations manager Suz Bremner said the exceptional grass growth has created greater interest in store stock but the higher prices have kept them out of the market. Abundant grass means small store lamb offerings at Stortford Lodge in Hastings but at Fielding 31kg lambs are making $3.80 a kilo. A year earlier at 2829kg store lambs were making $3.15. In the South Island most store lambs are being sold on-farm and at recent Canterbury sales store and prime lambs averaged $115 to $120, an increase of about $30 on a year earlier. Interest in sheep is showing little let up with prices at early season North Island breeding ewe fairs $50 to $60 higher than last year.

Five-year breeding ewes shine at fairs THERE has been a clear theme played out at the North Island ewe fairs over the past two weeks and that has been that buyers are attending the fairs with bigger budgets and dogged determination to take some ewes home. For the first time in history $200 plus has been very common across both the twotooth and five-year pens. That is earmarked for the better-conditioned sheep, of course, but at fairs from Matawhero to Masterton it has been a common occurrence. The higher prices have been driven by several factors but the main culprit has been the high cull ewe prices. Last year’s strong cull ewe market has flowed into this year and the outlook is just as solid. Cull ewes made $90-$180 through the latter part of last year in the North Island, with most lines selling towards the top end of that range. When replacing ewes buyers tend to work on a $20-$30 margin from selling their cull ewes and replacing and while that might have been stretched a bit this ewe fair season that margin is not far off. Also factoring into the equation is the growing interest in sheep farming again but a declining national ewe flock, which means demand outweighs supply. At the fairs covered by AgriHQ’s LivestockEye reports 50,000 ewes were offered, which was not enough to fill everyone’s orders. One line of two-tooth ewes cracked $300 at Stortford Lodge though reports are that in the past some have sold higher. Very few two-tooths made less than $200 across all the fairs. The real talking point, though, has been the five-year ewe market, which exceeded expectations at all the fairs. Ewes of this age generally have a one or two-year mouth and it is fair to say that with such a good season they have weaned well and went to market in their Sunday best. Most top cuts of five-year Romney ewes traded at $190-$230, with second cuts coming in at $160-$185. Buyers were hard pressed to buy anything under that level. suz.bremner@globalhq.co.nz

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