Farmers Weekly NZ May 23 2022 by AgriHQ

5 Sector pumped by gas funds Vol 20 No 19, May 23, 2022

farmersweekly.co.nz

$3.95

Incl GST

Global grain chaos Annette Scott annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz

RAIN prices are soaring to historic highs but growers are cautious amidst predictions the true costs of inputs inflation are yet to be realised. Burnt by a change in milling procurement followed by rising input costs and a wet harvest season it seemed a forgone conclusion that New Zealand farmers will jump in while the going is good. But speaking at the Women in Seed forum in Canterbury, Luisetti Seeds grain manager Dean Smith sees it differently. He offered little confidence for NZ growers. “Yes, we are at historic highs in the market and there are a lot of reasons for that, however the risk comes not in growing the grain but in the margin.” Smith says rising input costs and market volatility amidst global instability is creating chaos, but to reap any reward there will be an element of risk. “Weighing up the price versus the inputs it comes down to how each farmer perceives their own risk, noting too we are also operating in the most volatile markets ever.” New season contracts for premium mill wheat are out at $630 a tonne with the current market for the same grain in Canterbury fetching up to $650/t, more than $200 up on the same time last year. “You could say chaos creates

COMPLEX: Traditionally feed or bread mills will import grain from Australia but to do that now they will have to plan forward, join the queue and it will have to be bulk shipments as now there are no containers, Luisetti Seeds grain manager Dean Smith says.

opportunity. “Looking at more than $600/t for mill wheat, two years ago farmers would be lining up to do it. “They are not lining up, and that comes back to the risk,” Smith said. Feed wheat and barley are trending similarly with markets tracking upwards of $550/t, more than $150/t higher that a year ago. Smith predicts there will be a slow down in the NZ feed market from here as farmers hold on to uncontracted grain in an effort

to achieve prices that reflect cost inflation. Ukraine accounts for 30% of global wheat production but the conflict there has seen India, the world’s largest grower of wheat and eighth largest exporter, only allow exports to nations needing wheat for food security. Globally, such moves are expected to compound. “This will put further strain on what is already a globally constrained market,” Smith said. Importers holding significant stocks of grain include Indonesia,

Our

Egypt, Turkey and China, but just who owns that grain is the question, Smith said. “China in fact holds the end stocks of half the wheat but who owns it and how to get it sits among the global chaos that is driving our (NZ grain) pricing, but also at risk of input costs rising further. “Traditionally feed mills or bread mills will import from Australia but to do that now they will have to plan forward, join the queue and it will have to be bulk shipments as now there are no

containers and I can’t see shipping changing in the short term,” Smith said. Mainfreight air and ocean freight manager Tony Martin predicts it will be two to three years before shipping issues are resolved. “This is about 30-odd issues causing the problem and fixing any one issue is not going to solve the problem and everyone is sitting back saying – what do we do? “Meantime prices keep going up, that’s what we are dealing with,” Martin said. Business NZ director of advocacy Catherine Beard said the rising cost of doing business in NZ has risen 34.6% in four years. “Government is very much into centralisation; in Business NZ we think that is not a good thing. “Through centralisation we have reached choke point. “We would like to think Government could trust the private sector to get on and do it.” She cited the latest barriers to export emerging as the cost and availability of transport and logistics, cost of labour in NZ, the higher cost of doing business in NZ and finding new partners or agents in new destinations. “It was always the high level of the NZ dollar, that really doesn’t figure now.” Free Trade Agreement challenges send the message to diversify markets. “We are closely watching the China versus US tension – will NZ get to sit on the sideline or have to take a side? “Just don’t have all your eggs in the China basket,” Beard said.

GET A $200 PREZZY CARD WHEN YOU SIGN UP YOUR DAIRY SHED TO OUR EXCLUSIVE FOR DAIRY PLAN*

POWER MATES

TOP IT UP WITH $100 FOR EACH ADDITIONAL CONNECTION YOU SIGN UP* TRIPLE FARM SOURCE REWARD DOLLARS ON YOUR POWER BILL FOR 6 MONTHS

(1 July 2022 – 31 December 2022*) *T&Cs apply

UP TO $400 ACCOUNT CREDIT PER CONNECTION*

($400 for dairy shed or irrigation connection and $200 for other connections)

To find out more or sign up visit nzfarmsource.co.nz/power

Industry leading initiative

Dig deeper with our NEW Soil Health Check Healthy soil is the foundation for everything we do Healthy soil is the single most important resource we have on our farms. It’s the foundation for healthier pasture and crops, improving nutrient efficiency, enhancing biodiversity, and reducing environmental impacts. Our new Soil Health Check is a quick, easy, and affordable test that measures both the chemical and biological composition of your soil. The results give you a deeper understanding of your soil health, and allow us to provide you with highly-informed recommendations to optimise your nutrient performance. This industry-leading initiative is part of Ballance with Nature, which is our commitment to helping farmers and growers make science-backed decisions and work productively, sustainably.

This initiative is proudly part of:

Contact your local Ballance Nutrient Specialist to arrange your Soil Health Check. Results will appear in your MyBallance account, so activate your account today.

myballance.co.nz | 0800 222 090 BAL13368_Soil Health Check_DPS_390x548mm_FINAL5.indd 1

Together, Creating the Best Soil and Food on Earth

Check both the chemistry and biology of your soil

Save time by combining the check with your regular soil test

Learn how to improve biological activity, organic matter, and carbon in your soil

Compare your results against national benchmarks

View changes in your soil over time with trend view

Coming soon: learn how to visually assess physical soil health

Co-developed with

14/03/22 2:47 PM

NEWS

30 Farming with passion and precision

Agricultural champions Craige and Roz Mackenzie have poured their heart and soul into their family farming operation over the past 40 years, but health challenges have now force them off their land.

REGULARS Newsmaker ��30 New Thinking ��31

7 In-calf Jersey heifer sets record $23,600 In-calf heifer Glanton Punch Bria ET has set a heifer price record for the Jersey breed of $23,600.

Editorial ��32 Pulpit ��33 Opinion ��34 World ��37 Real Estate ��38-41 Employment ��42 Classifieds ��43 Tech & Toys ��44 Livestock ��45-51 Weather ��53

6 Hopes up for new season

forecast

Dairy farmers will be very keen to see the first Fonterra forecast of the farm gate milk price for the 2023 season, due to be published on Thursday, May 26.

15 Dry autumn sparks adverse event declaration for Waikato

Extremely dry conditions in South Auckland and Waikato have prompted the Ministry for Primary Industries to classify the region as a drought.

Markets ��52-56 GlobalHQ is a farming family owned business that donates 1% of all advertising revenue in Farmers Weekly and Dairy Farmer to farmer health and well-being initiatives. Thank you for your prompt payment.

AFFCO.co.nz For more than 100 years, AFFCO has been taking the finest New Zealand meat to the world and achieving the highest returns for our farmers. But don’t confuse our age with our attitude. We’re a modern and progressive business, equipped with the latest technology and working at the leading edge of the industry. We’re proud to introduce our new website to the world. It’s simpler, it’s faster, it’s here.

WWW.AFFCO.CO.NZ

WAVE25893

say hello to

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Sector pumped by gas funds Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz FARMING leaders have greeted the Government’s allocation of almost three quarters of a billion dollars to the primary sector in its emissions reduction plan with surprise and relief. Of the $710m allocated over four years about half has gone to the pastoral sector as a $339 million allocation to develop a new centre for climate action on agricultural emissions. The centre will be focused on advancing and accelerating new and existing research work through to on farm release, working with commercial partners. A further $329 million is going to the forestry sector to research forestry’s contribution to boosting carbon sequestration and to scale up seed production and lift private investment to transform the wood processing sector. DairyNZ chief executive Dr Tim Mackle says while pleasantly surprised at the investment amount in the new centre, it was a figure reflecting the size of the challenge still facing New Zealand dairying to reduce emissions. “We are world-leading with respect to our carbon footprint, but we desperately need new technology that is NZ specific, not to say we will not adopt overseas technology when it is available.” Right now there are at least four methane inhibitors due for trialling in NZ pastoral dairy systems before they can go commercial. These include both overseas and locally-developed products. Mackle says farmers who may have been uncertain about He Waka Eke Noa’s demands on their businesses could now take some comfort from the scale of Government investment to help back commercialised technology they could run with. “The Government has come

to the party on research and development, the devil will be in the detail of course.” The move to establish a new centre raises the question about the future of the 20-year old Pastoral Greenhouse Gas Research Centre (PGgRC). Industry sources suggest the Government is likely to look to the existing structure of the centre as a base for the new centre’s broader, commercially focused aim. Mackle says any new complex put in place had to prove itself as a genuine addition over and above work already being done. PGgRC manager Mark Aspin says the Government had been tight-lipped about the plans until the announcement. “But on the face of it this is a shot in the arm for methane reduction and commercialisation work, at about $80 million a year.” He says it recognised there was considerable work still to do to take research and make it work in the field. The centre has the IP on its vaccination and inhibitor technology developed over almost two decades. “If this results in better consolidation and co-ordination that will have to be a good thing. We do need more infrastructure around the country to measure and trial some of this technology further. It could be we end up as a different entity, but this would help us get there faster, that is good.” The announcement has not been without its critics. Greenpeace slammed the Government’s plan as one that ignored emissions from the dairy sector, funding it without any contribution to the Emissions Trading Scheme. However, the sector’s alternative response to the ETS through He Waka Eke Noa (HWEN) is due for announcement in coming weeks. This brings an expectation farmers will have to reduce

SURPRISE: DairyNZ chief executive Dr Tim Mackle says the injection of more than $300 million into a centre for agricultural emissions would help deliver more rapid commercial outcomes for the sector.

But on the face of it this is a shot in the arm for methane reduction and commercialisation work, at about $80 million a year. Mark Aspin Pastoral Greenhouse Gas Research Centre methane emissions by 10% by 2030 and 24-47% by 2050. Failure to arrive at an acceptable programme under He Waka Eke Noa will see agriculture pushed into the ETS. Professor of sustainable energy at Massey University, Ralph Sims, welcomed the centre and its R&D investment. But he pointed to the NZGgRC’s efforts to try to achieve the same

goals for almost a decade, with no tangible success in actually reducing farm emissions. Mackle acknowledged efforts to date had not delivered a commercial technology, particularly in the much hoped for methane vaccine, but it was not a reason to simply stop looking for one. “When it comes to methane, we are more challenged than many medical vaccinations – you are dealing with the rumen and the bloodstream and saliva. It’s a bit of a moon shot, but the size of the prize is so great for extensive livestock production.” Beef + Lamb NZ chief executive Sam McIvor says the Ggovernment has recognised the significant challenge facing the sector in reducing biological methane losses and the funding reflects that and the urgency of the problem. “We also have a group of commercial companies from the agri sector saying they want to get

involved to get technology sped up.” He says the joint ventures that may spin out of the new centre could be similar to the Primary Growth Partnership programme some years ago. He also welcomed the inclusion of $34m to help farmers, growers and iwi implement low emissions technology into their farming systems. Moves to streamline the regulatory processes to get the likes of methane inhibitors over the line more quickly were also timely. But McIvor says B+LNZ continues to push back at Government on its forestry policy in the emissions plan. He says the ETS’s 100% offset of forest to carbon emissions distorted the market and contrasted to countries like Canada and the European Union where forest planting can only deliver 7-10% of carbon offsets.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Hopes up for new season milk forecast Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz DAIRY farmers will be very keen to see the first Fonterra forecast of the farm gate milk price for the 2023 season, due to be published on Thursday, May 26. It will include a wide margin of perhaps plus or minus 75c around a mid-point that dairy analysts believe will probably start with $9 but may be in the high 8s. Fonterra’s milk price panel is required by the legislation to make its best estimate based on current market factors, not to start low and gradually improve as the season goes by. Setting of the first forecast will occur in one of the best ever combinations of world dairy commodity prices, milk supply, product demand and the NZ dollar value at the start of a season.

Fonterra’s treasury team will be hedging as many future currency transactions as possible at US6263c, after the co-operative has chased forward sales of reference and non-reference products. That US4-5c reduction of NZD value compared with this season is worth up to 50c/kg milksolids on the farm gate milk price. Dairy analysts all run similar computer programmes for milk price forecasts but over a time frame of 16 months the possible variables are numerous and they plug in different elements, like NZD predictions. Westpac senior agri economist Nathan Penny says Fonterra’s practice of beginning with a $1.50 spread and narrowing as the season unfolds is entirely sensible. “Farmers need a milk price forecast, but the spread also shows how much uncertainty is part of

STAYING PUT: Westpac senior agri economist Nathan Penny says the new normal is $8 and this commodity price cycle is going to stay higher for longer.

forecasting so far in front.” In May last year Fonterra began with a mid-point of $8 and a spread between $7.25 to $8.75. This year Penny expects nearly $1 more and has placed his chips on a mid-point of $8.90 with a range from $8.15 to $9.65. “The new normal is $8 and this commodity price cycle is going to stay higher for longer,” Penny told

Dairy prices vs. NZ dollar

0.90 0.85 0.80 0.75 0.70 0.65 0.60 0.55 Jun-13

Jun-15 Jun-17 NZD:USD Dairy prices

Jun-19

Jun-21 forecast forecast

5500 5000 4500 4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 Jun-23

a recent dairy field day. ANZ agricultural economist Susan Kilsby recently reduced her bank’s 2023 forecast by 80c to $8.50/kg, which she thought would be a good chance of being Fonterra’s starting mid-point. “We expect dairy commodity prices will continue to fall in the coming months, but relatively low global milk supplies are expected to put a floor under prices later in the year. “At this stage we anticipate dairy commodity prices will continue to fall for the next three to six months before stabilising. “There is considerable uncertainty about how supply constraints and waning demand will balance out in terms of price movements. “NZ milk price futures are currently trading at considerably higher prices than our updated forecasts. At present, farm gate milk prices are benefitting from the fall in the value of the NZ dollar. But the recent easing in the NZD will have more impact on next season’s milk price rather than the current season, which has only a few days to run. Kilsby says the ANZ currency team had assumed a modest US1c drop in the NZD/USD crossrate

Farmers need a milk price forecast but the spread also shows how much uncertainty is part of forecasting so far in front. Nathan Penny ASB for the whole 2023 dairy season compared with the 2022. While the current exchange rate was lower, they anticipated it would rise towards the end of the year. “But forecasting the dollar is harder than forecasting the milk price,” she says. ASB economist Nat Keall says the favourable exchange rate is helping offset some of the recent trimming in dairy prices. With the spot rate consistently below the assumption at the start of the season, the ASB forecast for Fonterra’s effective hedged NZD/ USD rate has also come down a bit, which is positive for the farm gate price. Westpac’s current 2023 forecast is $9.25 and the ASB is on $9.20.

Plants on a mission If your farm needs planting, let’s get the job done. Whether you’re looking to plant for honey, to enrich your soil or to clean up your

Our farm plant package gives you 1,600 plants (a hectare) from $3,200 (+ freight + GST). Buy per hectare and customise the bundle to suit your needs. Call 09 4312 125 or visit kauripark.com/plantnow

@ourkauripark

waterways, we have the plants for your farm’s mission.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

NZD weakness lifts prices tide Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz NEW Zealand commodity prices in United States dollars have fallen 10% since their peak in March but in NZD terms the fall has only been 4%, ASB economist Nat Keall says. The cause of the lower value of the NZD is extreme risk sentiment, including the covid slowdown in China, the Ukraine war and the aggressive interest rate hikes being signalled by the US Federal Reserve. “These themes have got markets worried about the global growth outlook and last week these concerns intensified.” The NZD is a pro-cyclical currency, which means it tends to rise when there is optimism about the global outlook and fall when moods are more pessimistic. “The current low level of the NZD is out of proportion with the fundamentals and the currency will no doubt bounce back over time, but the nearterm headlines will probably

NOT THIS TIME: ANZ economist Susan Kilsby says high NZ commodity prices are usually linked to a stronger NZD, but the present lower value NZD is being driven by external factors like the Ukraine war and the covid lockdowns in China, not our high commodity prices.

reinforce the prevailing mood. “Market volatility continues to support the USD given its status as the archetypal safe-haven asset. “After its tumble over the

previous fortnight, the NZD shed another US cent to finish last week towards the bottom of its 62c to 64c range. “Weaker risk sentiment has

offset much of the impact on farm gate returns via the NZD – sometimes a little anxiety isn’t all bad,” Keall says. The current two-year low for the NZD of US62-63c is a drop of 12% since April. He says that external factors are strongly influencing the NZD and that anything in the 2022 Budget would not have a major influence. ANZ economist Susan Kilsby says high NZ commodity prices are usually linked to a stronger NZD. But the present lower value NZD is being driven by external factors like the Ukraine war and the covid lockdowns in China, not our high commodity prices. AgriHQ analysts say the NZD had dropped US1.5c in the past fortnight and was 13% below this time 12 months ago, when the exchange rate was US72c. In recent weeks the softening of the NZD had helped offset some weakening in red meat export prices. The currency benefit is most extraordinary in relation to NZ

The current low level of the NZD is out of proportion with the fundamentals and the currency will no doubt bounce back over time, but the near-term headlines will probably reinforce the prevailing mood. Nat Keall ASB beef and lamb exports to the US. In-market prices for 90CL and 95Cl boneless beef have risen 8-9% over the past year. Exchange rate-applied prices, when converted to NZ$/kg from US$/lb, have risen 24-25%. For lamb racks sold to the US the in-market price has increased by 63% and the converted NZD price has risen 87%.

In-calf Jersey heifer sets record $23,600 IN-CALF heifer Glanton Punch Bria ET has set a heifer price record for the Jersey breed of $23,600. The heifer bred by Rob and Alison Thwaites, Taranaki, from their prolific bull breeding Blanche family, topped the 29th Jersey Pride Sale in Palmerston North, conducted by Link Livestock via Bidr. Two other in-calf heifers from Lynbrook and Riverina Jerseys respectively made $16,800 and $13,000. Top price of the R1yo heifers was the Trainor’s Ruanui Carrick Dixie at $9200 followed by the Pedley family’s Kaimatarau Lunar Peggy at $7000. The only cow offered, Ruanui Terr Desire, made $8800 contributing to a sale average of $10,408 across 13 Jerseys in total. There were also 16 lots of either

10 or 5 semen straws with a top of $310/straw for Bastille 317001. Other Bastille semen lots sold between $250 and $300. Sale details and the photograph were provided by Ross Riddell, Link Livestock. Brookview Genetics, Tokoroa, sold 70 lots of both Ayrshire and Holstein Friesian cows and heifers out of 90 offered and achieved a top price of $10,800 for HF heifer Brookview Imps Tina. The Montrose Ayrshires dispersal at Waiuku was a twoday affair and on the first day lot 18, five-year-old CNJQ-16-20 made the top of $6100 and on the second day TBNG-20-16 made $7000. In total 155 cows and heifers were sold and the averages were above $2500 for the cows and the heifers.

Calciprill ®

FULL OF PRIDE: Glanton Punch Bria fetched $23,600 for the Thwaites family and set a Jersey heifer price record.

leaves all other limes for dust! Application rate guide (kg/ha)* Topdressed 0.5 pH increase

Direct drilled or air seeded

Sand/loamy sand

300

Sandy/silt loam

500

125

Clay/loamy clay

625

150

10-15% organic matter

750

175

+25% organic matter

1000

200

*Omya recommends you soil test recularly and seek advice from independent agricultural professionals

Look for Calciprill on www.omya.com/nz-en

Nevan Ofsoski 021 935 379 nevan.ofsoski@omya.com

A 2-6mm lime granule made in Waikato from finely ground high purity limestone. • Cost effective • Low in dust, easy to spread • Breaks down rapidly in moisture • Can be applied using your own equipment • 95% < 75 microns

Ian Campbell 021 271 5963 ian.campbell@omya.com

LK0109938©

Soil type

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Processing season drags on Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz COVID-19, dry weather and shipping and labour issues have pushed the meat processing season out by up to three months longer than usual. The beef season looks most prolonged, with Silver Fern Farms (SFF) expecting it to end 12 weeks later, in mid-August in the North Island mid-September in the South Island. Processors are in the midst of the cull cow kill and SFF estimates waiting times of four to five weeks in the North Island to improve to three to four weeks in the coming months. The current six to eight week delay in the South Island is not expected to ease for at least the next month.

These lambs are still on farm which means they will have to be processed at some point during the rest of the season. Mel Croad AgriHQ SFF advises the sheep processing season is eight weeks later than normal in the north, expected to end about early June, and five weeks late in the south, expected to finish later this month. The South Island venison kill is running about six weeks later than usual in the south, expected to

end in early July, and three weeks later in the north, likely to end later this month. Delays range from two to four weeks but are expected to improve in the coming month. The delay does not surprise AgriHQ senior analyst Mel Croad who says a delayed start to the season due to a poor spring has been compounded by staff shortages, supply chain issues and the impact of Omicron. Historically the national cattle kill can reach 80,000 a week at this time of the year, but Croad doubts that will be achieved due to staffing issues. Short processing weeks through April dropped weekly slaughter rates by up to 30% compared with last year, pushing more cattle into May to be processed and creating even larger backlogs. Croad says space pressure for lambs in the North Island has eased but remains in the South Island. The overall lamb kill to the end of April is 11.5m compared to 13.7m a year ago with the North Island back 16%, or about 1m, and 10% in the south, about 700,000. “These lambs are still on farm which means they will have to be processed at some point during the rest of the season,” she says. The South Island kill has been compounded by dry autumn conditions in Southland and Otago which has pushed lambs sold in store condition to Canterbury. SFF’s chief supply chain manager Dan Boulton says while waiting times for lamb are reducing, there is a risk animals held into winter could compete for space with bobby calves.

TRAFFIC JAM: SFF’s chief supply chain manager Dan Boulton says while waiting times for lamb are reducing, there is a risk animals held into winter could compete for space with bobby calves.

This is especially so in North Island where the lamb kill is well down. He says the processor is working within the labour shortage and Covid constraints, including recruiting migrant employees, extending night shifts, and condensing shutdowns and maintenance to a bare minimum. SFF’s livestock team is moving store animals and cull cows to grazing. Alliance Group’s manufacturing manager Willie Wiese says it has a policy of keeping plants operating as long as there are sufficient animals to process rather than implementing traditional seasonal

shut-downs. The Meat Industry Association reports chronic labour shortages and logistic issues have reduced the number of cattle processed in the first quarter of the year by 11% and sheep by 16% compared to 2021. While processing capacity has since improved, the impact was pronounced in the month of March when sheepmeat exports fell 25% and beef 8% compared with the same month a year earlier. Association chief executive Sirma Karapeeva says while volumes are down, values remain high.

Exports for the first quarter of 2022 were worth $3.1b a 17% increase on the same period in 2021. Red meat exports during March were worth $1.15 billion, representing an 11% increase on March 2021. The value of exports to China dropped 17% to $384m during March, due to lock downs and port disruption, but nearly all other major markets saw an increase. Karapeeva says global demand and prices remained strong, but the sector was felling impact of supply chain disruptions and processing constraints.

0800 227 228 combiclamp.co.nz

™

No Fieldays, No Worries

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Welfare code changes impractical Gerald Piddock gerald.piddock@globalhq.co.nz FEDERATED Farmers is questioning the on-farm practicalities behind some of the proposals in the new draft code of welfare for dairy cattle. While well intentioned, some of the changes it proposes would be difficult for farmers to put into practice, the group’s animal welfare spokesman Wayne Langford says. “The theory behind some of this is really good, it just hasn’t had a practical lens put on top of it. “The code could add undue red tape on top of driving us away from our unique pasture-based system,” he says. The code was drafted by the Ministry for Primary Industries’ National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC).

The theory behind some of this is really good, it just hasn’t had a practical lens put on top of it. Wayne Langford Federated Farmers The main proposed changes in the draft code relate to body condition score, intensive winter grazing, shelter, provision of lying surfaces and limiting time on hard surfaces, calf rearing and end-of-life management. Langford says much of the initial feedback has been that the proposals aim to fix issues that a small minority of farmers do, with no regard to how it could affect the bulk of the industry. An example of this was the proposal to remove electrified backing gates and top gates used in holding yards at dairy sheds. The gates are used by farmers as a way of controlling animal flow into the milking shed. Langford says he is unaware of any farmers who have been

prosecuted for using these gates and he questions why the code has taken such a tough stance on it. “If you use both of those tools incorrectly of course they can have animal welfare repercussions, but the majority don’t. They use them very successfully and it actually improves animal welfare outcomes by improving flow.” New proposals around how much new born calves should be fed also concerned him. It would see a calf fed liquid feed at a rate of no less than 20% of their body weight divided into no less than two feeds per day for their first three weeks. It would remove the option of using a once a day feeding system, which was used by some farmers, as well as potentially making it more difficult to introduce the calf to grass, he says. “Another theme running through the document is more consultants and more veterinarian input into farming practices. Those guys are significantly short staffed and don’t need more work over and above what they have got. “It seems to be over prescriptive and personally I’m a little disappointed that its come out in the format that it has. It’s more likely to turn farmers off than engage them with the process. “The views I’ve had from farmers are certainly very negative on it.” He suspects much of the push for the change is coming from regulations being adopted from the Northern Hemisphere. The problem is, many of those rules are based on indoor farming systems rather than the outdoor, pasture grass fed systems of New Zealand. DairyNZ’s general manager for responsible dairy David Burger says they were relieved that MPI had extended its consultation period on the code from June 9 to June 29. He says it was too early to comment on some of the proposals in the code as they were still reviewing its contents to see

Designed for strength. Built to last. GRW0004

Distribution Centres: Whangarei, Hamilton, Levin, Taupo, Christchurch, Gore 0800 347 259

greenwoodinfo.co.nz

HOME GROWN? Federated Farmers animal welfare spokesman Wayne Langford says much of the push for change is coming from regulations being adopted from the Northern Hemisphere.

if it is practical, clear and fair and achieve its desired outcomes. “There’s a whole bunch of stuff in there that we are having a look at, at the moment.” Ensuring animals have a good life is a core part of being a dairy farmer and New Zealand dairy farmers are operating at a very high standard from a global perspective, he says. Animal welfare science has also changed since the code was last

reviewed with dairy animals being now classed as sentient, meaning they had positive and negative emotions. “The question is how do you translate that to the day to day on farm. That’s where we are having a good look at the science and the practicalities. “We are really trying to understand will it be pragmatic to implement and will it achieve the intended outcomes.”

NAWAC’s revision of the code has taken 18 months. A working group, which DairyNZ had been a part of, was created to advise the committee of the code’s content. Many of the suggestions put forward by this group were not included in this draft code, Burger says. “The code is a lot different to a lot of the working group’s recommendations.”

Calf Sheds

Lifestyle Block Sheds

Covered Yards

Bells & Whistles Sheds

GREENWOOD SHEDS

YARDS

BRIDGES

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Soaring costs puts onus on food security Gerald Piddock gerald.piddock@globalhq.co.nz THE new season for New Zealand arable farmers could be one of the most challenging ever as domestic and international cost pressures send input prices soaring. It will see food security taking on an importance previously not seen in New Zealand, Waikato Federated Farmers arable chairman Keith Holmes said at the group’s annual meeting in Hamilton. “We have the colliding forces of a ‘storming inferno’ made up of the ripple effects of the dreadful Ukrainian situation, the covid and post-covid aftermath, 30% more ‘covid’ [printed] money pumped into the world economies, inflation at 7% and rising, and cost of money/credit ramping up.” While urea prices in New Zealand were around $1100 a

tonne, in Europe,that figure was closer to $2500 largely because of the impact of the Ukraine war. That has huge implications for New Zealand growers, Holmes said. “Half of New Zealand or even more are saying, ‘you have to be environmentally responsible,’ but they are also saying, ‘we want cheap food,’ and we can’t afford to be subsidising the rest of the world.” Arable farmers have to make sure they know their costs right through the supply chain as food security takes on a new importance, he said. “We as an industry have to make sure we know our costs thoroughly from dirt to plate, so we don’t naively end up subsidising the end user, be it the dairy farmer or the consumersupermarket chain. “We must also stand up to the

Government-council demands as sustainability has to also mean economic sustainability for us farmers also.” All parts of the food chain had a part to play, he said. NZX head of insights Julia Jones said the world was facing the “most awesome calamity ever” with a pandemic, geopolitical concerns along with inflation. “The cost of food is going through the roof,” Jones said. To illustrate this, she said the cost of producing a cheese scone has jumped 45% over the past two years. The biggest influence on that increase has been the cost of wheat or flour, which has lifted 27% since mid-March. Other grains have also gone up with feed wheat up 10%, feed barley has lifted 18%, oats 10% and both maize and palm kernel have risen 22%.

National average grain & feed National prices Average Grain & Feed Prices 625.00 575.00 525.00 475.00 425.00 375.00 325.00 275.00

Milling Wheat

Feed Wheat

Feed Barley

Oats

Maize

PKE

Expon. (Maize)

FRONT FOOT: NZX head of insights Julia Jones says hope is not a strategy for farmers and they have to adapt to headwinds and work more closely with other farming sectors.

Jones said there were multiple reasons for the increases. Domestically, a large amount of NZ milling wheat was reduced to feed wheat. Drought in Southland was a big driver of this, as well as drier and hotter conditions across the central North Island. Internationally, the conflict in Ukraine has scared the market with prices in the US and Australia increasing massively. This had a trickle-down effect on New Zealand prices. “Ukraine is one of the world’s largest soybean and corn exporters while Russia is one of the world’s largest wheat exporters. While this doesn’t affect NZ directly, it puts pressure on Australia which is where we import our grains as other countries source elsewhere.” As well as fertiliser, another influence was oil prices with reports of over $1/L increases for 91 unleaded over the last two months. 6 This is a 30% increase over the

We as an industry have to make sure we know our costs thoroughly from dirt to plate, so we don’t naively end up subsidising the end user, be it the dairy farmer or the consumersupermarket chain. Keith Holmes Federated Farmers course of three months. Jones said hope was not a strategy for farmers and they have to adapt to these headwinds and work more closely with other farming sectors. “We have to get real and we cannot continue to think hope is a business plan.”

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Instant WMP stirs up GDT prices Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz PRICES dropped for the fifth consecutive Global Dairy Trade auction last week, by 2.9% in aggregate but with widely differing components. Prices for grades of whole milk powder (WMP) both rose and fell while products with different contract periods (CP), or shipment dates, also behaved differently. Fonterra was one of the causes of the GDT price falls, by substantially increasing the volume of instant WMP on offer, thereby reducing prices for that grade by as much as 33% in CP2. Regular grade WMP prices actually increased, reversing the trend of previous auctions, which is a positive sign to show they may be finding a floor, ASB economist Nat Keall said. Furthermore, WMP prices for the near contract periods, CP1, CP2 and CP3, were either steady or increasing, while for CP4 and CP5 the price reductions were between US$600 and $1000/ tonne, or 10% to 18%. UHT WMP prices also rose although the overall effect for the WMP index was a fall of 4.9% and that was a the main influence on

NOT BAD: Regular grade WMP prices increased at last week’s GDT auction, reversing the trend of previous auctions, which is a positive sign to show they may be finding a floor, ASB economist Nat Keall said.

the GDT price index (all products) falling 2.9%. It was a case of the averages for different product types differing widely and obscuring the individual results. “If it wasn’t for the large reshuffle of prices for WMP grades, this average auction outcome would have been much

more benign,” NZX dairy analyst Stu Davison said. “Milk fats both continue to surprise; anhydrous milk fat made an average price gain, while butter prices retreated further, which was unexpected.” AMF was up 0.6% and butter was down 1%, skim milk powder fell 0.6% and cheddar was steady

at minus 0.1%. Davison said the pattern of buying seems to be opportunistic. “This hand-to-mouth buying is creating odd patterns of demand, but still demand none the less.” Therefore, he remained optimistic on the dairy market because demand was steady while

supply remains restricted. Keall echoed that sentiment, saying global dairy supply is still very, very tight, with no obvious signs of meeting current demand. “Our base case is still that prices will recover some ground over the NZ winter. “Prices will move cyclically lower at some stage, but it’s anyone’s guess when that will happen – a sharp increase in supply doesn’t look imminent.” Westpac senior agri economist Nathan Penny said that dairy prices have fallen 16% over the past five GDT auctions and WMP prices by 18%. The economic crisis in Sri Lanka has made Fonterra reroute milk that was destined for consumer goods in Sri Lanka into powders instead. That diversion now seems largely complete and so Penny is sticking to his 2023 milk price forecast of $9.25/kg. “Fundamentally global supply remains tight, and we expect this tightness to support prices over the second half of calendar 2022 and into 2023. “Indeed, global grain feed prices remain very high and continue to put the squeeze on farmer margins in the United States, Europe and Australia.”

The only calf scours vaccine proven to help protect against both common New Zealand strains of rotavirus.

Scourguard® 4K bottles can now be recycled

G6 G10 Some jobs call for double duty, like vaccinating for calf scours. Only Scourguard 4K is proven to protect against both G6 and G10 rotavirus strains, so for bigger, healthier, scour free calves, don’t settle for half measures. Vaccinate your cows with Scourguard 4K. Tested and proven in New Zealand. Get your total vaccine solution from your vet today. 17688FW

Zoetis New Zealand Limited. Tel: 0800 963 847; www.zoetis.co.nz. SCOURGUARD is a registered trade mark of Zoetis Inc. ACVM No. A10057. RVM; Available only under Veterinary Authorisation. All other trademarks referenced are trademarks of their respective owners.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

A farming team with a difference Sonita Chandar sonita.chandar@globalhq.co.nz CRAIGMORE Farming Services was named the 2022 Fonterra Responsible Dairying Award winners at the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards last month, receiving the John Wilson Memorial Trophy. Spread out from Culverden to Oamaru along with a dry stock unit at Middlemarch, the group employs more than 120 staff and each farm has something different from the next. “We work hard to do things a bit differently, all the farm teams have their own focus but it all comes together to farm as one group,” agri relationship partner Caroline Amyes says. “The award is a really nice recognition of all the hard work our teams are doing and we are really pleased they are all being recognised.” Aymes says it is the farms and farmers’ different personalities that make the difference to how the group operates. “Where the farm and farmers’ personalities overlap, that is where we find the sweet spot and achieve some amazing results. “One of the fundamental reasons why this group was set up was to allow the farmers to own their farming systems. Understanding the individual passion of the farmer and how we can work with them to meet individual goals and aspirations is how we help them to succeed. With the farms spread out, each has its own challenges but there are pockets of farms which that together to see what works and what could work on their own farm. “It’s all about farmers learning from each other but recognising the differences in farming systems

one of their 22 farms to suit the environment and the people. The judges said Craigmore is demonstrating and implementing new technology that’s proven to work in a way that is achievable and realistic for other farmers. “Craigmore is leading change and using different innovations on different farms to help create solutions that other farmers could then use, including dung beetles, working on their significant natural areas, a composting barn, boluses and are trialling Halter on one of their farms,” the judges said.

TOPS: Fonterra Responsible Dairying Award winners Craigmore Farming Services enable their farmer to own their farming systems. The group was represented by general manager Stuart Taylor and agri relationship partner, Caroline Amyes.

to see what works. “We have the scale to do trials and if successful, we can take it and share with the wider industry to help other farmers.” Aymes says the team at Craigmore wishes to recognise the other finalist in the Fonterra Responsible Dairying Award as well as the judges. “We were up against two other operations that were quite different, each doing really good things in their business. The judges’ decision would not have been easy.” Head judge Conall Buchanan says it was a privilege to engage with all three finalists and the quality of the presentations was exceptional.

Fellow judge Charlotte Rutherford, from Fonterra, agreed saying “the future of the industry feels in such good hands when you are able to spend time with people like our finalists”. “It’s encouraging and motivating and you wish you could send them out around the country to speak to all farmers because we left the room energised by what they had to say.” Judges said while all the finalists were impressive, the winning entry represented by Stuart Taylor, general manager farming and Caroline Amyes, agri relationship partner, stood out due to Craigmore’s focus on adapting individual farm systems to the

land, resources and the people involved. “This is a strength that our industry will increasingly use in the years ahead,” they said. One of Craigmore’s philosophies is that there is no single perfect system. “Craigmore begins with the people that are going to be on the land and their motivations and goals for the land and animals.” judge Melissa Slattery said. “People influence the system that the farms adopt because the passion and drive was linked to the people that were running the farms.” The judges were impressed at Craigmore’s philosophy of adapting the farm system on each

It’s encouraging and motivating and you wish you could send them out around the country to speak to all farmers because we left the room energised by what they had to say. Charlotte Rutherford Dairy Awards judge “Just like every farmer, Craigmore is on a journey and are continually seeking ways to grow and challenge themselves.” The prestigious award was introduced by the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards and Fonterra to recognise dairy farmers who demonstrate leadership in their approach to sustainability and who are respected by their fellow farmers and their community for their attitude and role in sustainable dairying.

Manawatū Leaders’ Accord community grants open GRANT applications are being sought for the final year of the Manawatū River Leaders’ Accord. The grants assist nonprofit organisations such as community groups, schools, catchment care groups and iwi/hapū with projects that will help increase engagement with the Manawatū River and improve water quality in the

catchment. Manawatū River Leaders’ Accord co-chair Rachel Keedwell says it is always exciting to see the impressive work our communities are doing. “We encourage any groups who feel they fit the criteria to apply. Enabling communities to look after their environment and watch it flourish over

Under the pump? For tips and ideas,

visit farmstrong.co.nz

time is a rewarding feeling,” Keedwell says. “There is a total funding pool of $80,000 available with projects funded depending on their alignment with the Manawatū River Accord goals. These include the awa becoming a source of regional pride and mana, and that the catchment and waterways are returned to a healthy

condition. Applications close Friday, July 1 at 4pm and projects must have a final completion date of no later than June 20, 2023.

For further information and an application form click here: https:// www.manawaturiver.co.nz/about/ community-funding/

We encourage any groups who feel they fit the criteria to apply. Enabling communities to look after their environment and watch it flourish over time is a rewarding feeling. Rachel Keedwell Manawatū River Leaders’ Accord

When I’m really busy, I ask myself what are the top two tasks I need to work on today? Sam Whitelock Farmstrong Ambassador

Super just got stronger

The most powerful single superphosphate on the market Our new improved SuperPlus® dials up the phosphorus to 9.5% for powerful performance. Apply more nutrients at once, save on spreading costs, and boost soil fertility, sustainably.

ballance.co.nz | 0800 222 090

Let’s make sustainable attainable With BNZ’s new Agribusiness Sustainability Linked Loan If your Agribusiness is working towards achieving environmental and social ambitions, you deserve to reap the rewards of sustainability. This is where we can help; with New Zealand’s first-of-its-kind, incentive-based, on-farm Sustainability Linked Loan. It’s the latest step in BNZ’s continued effort to support the future of Agribusiness.

Visit bnz.co.nz/agribusiness Lending criteria, terms and fees apply.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Help unlocked for dry Waikato Gerald Piddock gerald.piddock@globalhq.co.nz EXTREMELY dry conditions in South Auckland and Waikato have prompted the Ministry for Primary Industries to classify the region as a drought. The declaration as a mediumscale adverse event will enable a package of support for farmers and growers.

This free service matches farmers with surplus feed to those that need it. If you live in a neighbouring area and have spare feed, listing with the service will help those caught short. Nick Story Ministry for Primary Industries MPI’s director of rural communities and farming support Nick Story says it was recognition that a severe dry spell over the autumn months is taking its toll

on the region’s primary sector and additional support is needed. “The lack of any consistent rainfall since the beginning of the year means dry conditions in the region have reached the point where assistance is needed to help the rural community get through. “Farmers in these districts have been closely monitoring the situation and making early decisions about stock levels, culling and buying in feed, but the lack of rain is starting to have an impact as winter looms.” The adverse event classification was made by the Minister of Agriculture Damien O’Connor following a request from primary sector organisations in the region. It is also thought to be first time a drought has been declared so late in the farming season in the North Island. In the South Island in recent years, there were announcements of drought classifications in late April 2021 and May 2016. This decision unlocks a package of support including tax flexibility with Inland Revenue, and the Waikato, Hauraki-Coromandel Rural Support Trust will receive extra funding of $30,000 to run events to connect people and provide mentoring support. The national Feed Co-

HELPING HAND: Waikato Federated Farmers president Jacqui Hahn says the classification will allow tax equalisation for sharemilkers and contract milkers who may have pasture cover targets in their contracts with the farm owner.

ordination Service is available for farmers if they are struggling to find sources of supplementary feed. “This free service matches farmers with surplus feed to those that need it. If you live in a neighbouring area and have spare feed, listing with the service will help those caught short,” Story says.

Waikato Federated Farmers president Jacqui Hahn says the classification will allow tax equalisation for sharemilkers and contract milkers who may have pasture cover targets in their contracts with the farm owner. There was concern they would not be able to meet that target because of the drought and would be left with a large financial bill.

“Now that the drought’s acknowledged, they both have to work together,” Hahn says. The announcement follows a medium-scale adverse event classification for drought conditions in Southland and parts of Otago in March where $100,000 was allocated to the Rural Support Trusts to support affected farmers.

THE RISKS ARE LESS RISKY WHEN WE’RE PART OF THE PICTURE. FMG1362HHPFW

Moving ahead means making changes. And that usually comes with a few risks along the way. But with us as your partner, you can progress with more confidence. That’s because FMG offers the kind of specialised advice and knowledge that only comes from working alongside rural New Zealand for generations. To find out more, ask around about us. Or better still, give us a call on 0800 366 466. FMG, your partners in progress.

We’re here for the good of the country.

STOP! IT’S TIME TO GET YOUR PRE LAMB NUTRITION SORTED!

with GET YOUR ESSENTIAL PRE-LAMB 200mg

COST: $0.56

per ewe based on 100L drum

Containing bio-available:

Omega 3, 6 & 9 Vitamins A, D & E B Vitamins incl B12 & Biotin Antioxidants Iodine & Selenium

WITH FREE

optional Selenium, Cobalt & Copper

GIVE YOUR CALVES THE BEST POSSIBLE START!

A MULTI_VITAMIN & ELECTROLYTE SUPPLEMENT

Containing bio-available:

Omega 3 & 6 Multivitamins

DRENCH

DRY FEED

Ideal drench kick-start for calf health or for when nutrient levels are depleted from travel or stress. Drench daily when nutrient levels are depleted to assist in the prevention of scouring.

Enhance digestion and appetite throughout the calf’s growing period for improved overall weight gain.

Electrolytes Biotin Antioxidants Assists with:

FROM $0.23 per 10ml dose

• Weight gains • Gut health • Immune system support • Recovery from travel stress

palaMOUNTAINS formulation provides

nology delivering

absorption rates absorption rates

(Massey University, 2004)

Phone 0800 848 276 or visit www.palamountains.co.nz/quoteme

Optimise nutrition for lambing success IMPORTANT NOTICE - Pre-Lamb Nutritional Requirements Prelamb is a crucial time to introduce key nutrients to support hormonal functions which directly influence embryo development, foetal growth and the viability of the new-born lamb. Beef + Lamb (NZ) recommends orally dosing 200mgs of iodine at 4 and 8 weeks before lambing. It is further supported by research, which suggests that a deficiency in iodine results in higher perinatal lamb mortality rates (Sargison, West, et al 1998*). During gestation (pre -lambing), there are two critical stages of foetal developmental at 8 and 4 weeks pre-lamb. Providing the ewe with high levels of essential nutrients, including vitamin E, selenium and iodine at these times will support the lamb’s developmental health and increase survival rates (Freer, 2002*).

Selenium and iodine work together and have a vital role in the mobilisation of brown adipose tissue, which aids in improving lamb survival (ADAS UK, 2014*). High stores of vitamin E are also required in the ewe to support immune function, and this is delivered to the lamb through the initial intake of colostrum. Cobalt – Synthesis of Vitamin B12 (energy & protein metabolism) and prevents lamb mortality. Provides vitamin B12 to the lamb until 3 weeks of age. Copper assists bone development, fleece development and protects the

Revive Sheep Management Dosing Programme

integrity of the immune system. It also protects lambs who are most susceptible to copper deficiency until 10 weeks of age. The technology used in palaMOUNTAINS Revive, allowing solubilisation of nutrients, assists in delivering and restoring levels of these essential nutrients in the body. palaMOUNTAINS Revive contains a comprehensive range of nutrients including; omega fatty acids, B group and A, D, E vitamins and minerals, plus trace elements (selenium, cobalt & copper) can be included as per the onfarm pre-lambing requirements. Revive

provides a 99.5% absorption rate (Massey University, 2004) by enhancing cellular uptake in the gut, ensuring your in-lamb ewes get the full benefit of these crucial nutrients. palaMOUNTAINS Revive with 200mg Iodine Booster has been designed to combat deficiencies and provide the ewe and lamb with the recommended 200mg dose (Beef + Lamb NZ, 2002*) at 8 and 4 weeks pre-lamb, ensuring your stock benefit from this optimal health advantage. * For reference information visit: palamountains.co.nz/iodine-references

PRE MATING

Ewes - 30ml Include: Iodine for reproductive performance and Selenium for embryo survival.

Optional Pre Lambing: Ewes - 30ml 8 weeks prior and include: Iodine, Cobalt and Copper if levels are low.

WEANING

PRE LAMBING

Lambs - 20ml

Ewes - 30ml

Include: Vitamin B12 for improved growth rates and weight gains.

4 weeks prior and include: Iodine which prevents goitre and Selenium to prevent white muscle disease and still births.

Optional Weaning: Ewes - 30ml For dag and parasite control and include: Milk Thistle for liver health and recovery (if eczema present).

DOCKING

Lambs - 10ml Include: Vitamin B12 and Selenium for improved growth rates and weight gains.

Contact the team today to see how Revive can help with your on-farm production.

Phone 0800 848 276 or visit www.palamountains.co.nz Corrie Palamountain

Brett Nelson

James Ward

Max O’Donnell

Operations Manager / North Island Sales Manager

North Island East Coast Area Sales Manager

Canterbury/Marlborough/Tasman Rural Territory Manager

Otago/West Coast/Southland Rural Territory Manager

M. 021 607 082

M. 027 749 1005

M. 027 749 1006

M. 027 749 1001

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Reset leaves same labour issues Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz THE Government’s immigration reset will have minimal impact on the labour-short primary sector, observers say. Vets are the only primary sector jobs included in the newlycreated green list of 85 hard-to-fill roles, a new migrant category created by the Government to attract and retain high skilled workers. Senior dairy farm management roles are included in the work to residence category that allows visa holders to apply for residency after two years working here. In the interim they must be paid twice the median wage. National Party Immigration spokeswoman Erica Stanford says the most glaring omission in the Government’s announcement last week was not providing certainty for skilled migrants. Applications for this category have been closed since 2020, during which time Australia and Canada have started offering residency to skilled migrants who can work in areas where they are needed. “Why would someone sell their house, leave their job, uplift their families and come to a job in NZ not knowing if there is a pathway to residency?” she says. Another Government policy change includes sector agreements for the care, construction and infrastructure, meat processing, seafood, and the seasonal snow and adventure tourism sectors that allows access to lower-paid migrants. “Each of these sectors will be provided limited exceptions to the median wage requirement in exchange for ongoing improvements,” the Government press release states. These sectors have traditionally relied on lower-paid migrants but this provision will provide time to improve working conditions, training and the upskilling of NZers, it adds. The meat industry is short 2000 workers this season and the dairy industry 4000.

LEFT OUT: Southland dairy farmer Jason Herrick says there is nothing in the immigration reset to assist the shortage of farm workers.

We have worked closely with businesses on these reforms and understand that for some sectors it will take time to transition away from a reliance on cheap migrant labour. Kris Faafoi Minister of Immigration Southland dairy farmer Jason Herrick says there is nothing in the immigration reset to assist the shortage of farm workers. “We need people to put cups on cows,” he says.

Herrick says to qualify to be an accredited employer so he can recruit migrant staff, he now has to provide Immigration NZ with financial information about his business. “I have no idea why, but at the end of the day I suppose it is to provide employees with some certainty that we are a financial stable employer.” Under its immigration reset, the Government says employers won’t need to provide as much information and can show that their own recruitment processes have proven that no NZers were available for work. It states Immigration New Zealand will endeavour to have these visas processed within 30 days once an employer is accredited. Whether that requires financial

information to be supplied is unclear. “We have worked closely with businesses on these reforms and understand that for some sectors it will take time to transition away from a reliance on cheap migrant labour,” Immigration Minister Kris Faafoi said when announcing the policy change last week. “The Government recognises that shift for some sectors is more challenging than others by establishing new sector agreements to assist with the transition. “They will provide access for specified sectors to lower-paid migrant workers, and all those employers can continue to hire working holidaymakers at any wage.” A spokesperson for Faafoi

said work on skilled residence pathways is underway and will be fed into the new Skilled Migrant Category settings which will reopen later in the year. The spokesperson says about 80% of Essential Skills Visa holders in the primary sectors were paid at or above the median wage. Primary sector employers have already taken steps to provide more attractive career pathways for NZers and the Minister wants that to continue once borders reopen. The sector agreement with the meat industry means it can pay below the legislated minimum median wage for migrant workers. The Recognised Seasonal Employer and Working Holiday Schemes are not impacted by the changes.

POLARIS SPECIAL OFFERS LIMITED EDITION

570 RIDE COMMAND

KG 612

44 HP

ON DEMAND TRUE 612KG TOWING ALL-WHEEL-DRIVE CAPACITY (AWD)

XP 1000 BIG GAME EDITION

KG 1,134

KG 41/82 41KG FRONT / 82KG REAR RACK CAPACITY

6 PLY TYRES

ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING

IRS WITH 24.1CM OF TRAVEL

82 HP

HIGH PERFORMANCE ON DEMAND TRUE ALL-WHEEL-DRIVE (AWD)

1,134KG TOWING CAPACITY

ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING

0800 440 290 | www.polarisnewzealand.com |

ACTIVE DESCENT CONTROL (ADC)

POLARIS HD 29” PRO ARMOR 4500 LB WINCH X-TERRAIN TYRES

/PolarisNZ |

/polarisorv_nz

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Farm phones to dial up new tech Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz A NEED to replace ageing telecommunications equipment will alter telephone services for many rural households, but only if fibre is available. The public-switched telephone network (PSTN), owned by Chorus but operated by Spark, is a network of switches that connect landline calls – the traditional telephone system – from one person to another. The system uses Chorusmanaged copper lines but the PSTN system uses technology that now needs replacing. Telecommunications Users Association of New Zealand (TUANZ) chief executive Craig Young says services can be replaced with voice over internet protocol (VoIP), a similar service using copper wire but delivered in a different way. Under this system the continuity of telephone services relies on electricity to the handsets, whereas under PSTN,

services still operated during electricity outages provided supply was maintained to telephone exchanges. As Chorus extends its fibre network it plans to start turning off the copper network, which the Commerce Commission granted approval for in 2020 and included protection for consumers. It can only happen if there is fibre available. The fibre roll out has not yet reached rural areas and a Chorus spokesperson says there no timetable for the turning off of the copper network in rural areas. “Chorus will continue to maintain and manage its copper network,” he says. Completing the shift for 375,000 copper connections, both urban and rural, will take several years. The intention has always been to transfer customers onto a fibre network,and since a pandemicdisrupted trial started in March last year, 8000 have switched from copper to fibre. “Chorus started building the fibre broadband network with

the knowledge that once it was complete and customers could connect to fibre, it would be able to start turning off the copper network,” a statement from Chorus says. Young says one of the commission’s requirements is that consumers must be advised of changes six months in advance. He advises rural consumers to be aware of the changes and to carefully consider options offered by telecommunication companies which could include VoIP. “They shouldn’t be forced onto mobile or fixed wireless if there is a copper wire service up to the house.” If a health issue demands a telephone service must be available 24 hours a day, Young says there is technology available which will ensure telecommunication services can be maintained if electricity supply is disrupted. A Spark spokesperson says the PSTN network was built in the 1980s and is now nearing the end of its life.

OPTIONS: TUANZ chief executive Craig Young advises rural consumers to be aware of the changes and to carefully consider options offered by telecommunication companies which could include VoIP.

“Its components have not been manufactured since 2003 and the people with the skills needed to maintain it are getting harder to find. “The reality is that this old technology will not work for much longer and we need to retire it and move all our customers to more modern technologies like voice over fixed wireless broadband or voice over fibre broadband where available.” In 2020 Spark began moving its

customers area by area onto newer alternatives but will not move customers off the PSTN where there is no alternative option currently available. “We are investigating alternatives to determine how we manage these migrations in the future. “Customers can still have a landline phone, it just won’t operate over the copper lines anymore.”

LET’S CUT TO THE CHASE...

TURBO® is the rain-resistant pour on that delivers better potency and a broader spectrum in a world-first formula for growing cattle. PROUDLY

OWNED

Available exclusively through veterinary practices nationwide. Visit www.alleva.co.nz for more information. TURBO® is a registered trademark of Alleva Animal Health Ltd. TURBO® Pour On (A011722) is registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997. See www.foodsafety.govt.nz for registration conditions. *Available while stocks last.

www.alleva.co.nz

Purchase 7.5Ls of TURBO® Pour On and receive an Oleo Mac Pole Saw* Visit your local veterinary clinic for details.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Olam factory construction on track Gerald Piddock gerald.piddock@globalhq.co.nz CONSTRUCTION of Olam Food Ingredients’ (OFI) plant in Tokoroa is well underway and on track for opening for the start of the 20232024 milking season. When fully operational, the new plant on an 11.8 hectare site in the South Waikato town is expected to generate 50 to 60 full time jobs, with more anticipated in the future. OFI New Zealand operations director Paul Rennie says so far the construction had avoided the worst of the supply chain disruptions seen in other building projects caused by the covid pandemic. Most of the site’s concrete had been poured and the first of its stainless steel equipment was in place. He hopes that commissioning would begin in March next year and the first milk to be processed in July 2023. On the supplier recruitment side, Rennie says they were continuing to have conversations with farmers and confirmed they have some suppliers signed up. “We’re making sure we have a competitive milk price, we’re also guaranteeing minimum milk prices and we are at the moment looking at a $6.25/kg MS guaranteed minimum milk price.” He acknowledges that it is low in respect to where the milk price is currently sitting at, but given the current volatility in the market, savvy farmers would look at that carefully, he says. “I also think there’s a broader story in what OFI offers in terms of connectivity to customers and a sustainability agenda which I think has a currency with blue chip customers that doesn’t have a comparison.” OFI is adopting technology that helps it minimise its environmental impact, he says. “All aspects of our new plant are being designed to maximise renewable energy use, minimise pollution and water use and ensure waste is handled in the most sustainable way possible,” Rennie says. “One of the key commitments is that we will operate a biomass boiler that will be fuelled with

ON TRACK: Olam Food Ingredients’ new factory in Tokoroa will open in time for the 2023 milking season.

All aspects of our new plant are being designed to maximise renewable energy use, minimise pollution and water use and ensure waste is handled in the most sustainable way possible. Paul Rennie Olam Food Ingredients sustainably-sourced wood fibre. This will help us ensure our milk processing is energy efficient and low impact.”

The Tokoroa site is well placed to maximise the use of that biomass, being close to some of NZ’s largest forestry operations. OFI is also exploring ways to repurpose ash waste from the wood fiber burning process in commercial compost. “We’re pleased to see our plans coming to life as the plant construction progresses and we are looking forward to playing a constructive role in the New Zealand dairy sector’s sustainability journey in the future,” he said. Warren Landles has been appointed as sustainability manager, joining from Miraka, where he held senior sustainability and on-farm excellence roles. Landles said the focus will be

supporting existing efforts and partnering with OFI farmers to help them achieve their goals under He Waka Eke Noa, the industry blueprint for reducing emissions and building resilience to climate change. “At a farm level, one of our focus areas is methane, so we are looking at tools and technologies that can support farmers to achieve meaningful on-farm emission reductions through methane mitigation,” Landles said. “We will also help them with riparian planting by providing cost-price native plants that we will grow in a nursery facility on site, using treated wastewater from our milk processing operations in the nursery.” The plant is being developed in

stages, starting with a spray dryer with a capacity of one million litres of milk a day, capable of producing more than 45,000 tonnes of milk powder annually. This product will form part of OFI’s wider natural ingredients portfolio that includes cocoa, coffee, nuts and spices. These ingredients combine well with dairy for customised products such as yogurts, protein bars, ready-to-drink tea, coffee and cocoa beverages and for adding to desserts, bakery, beverages and confectionery. Its second phase of construction will see more facilities added in time to meet growing demand for high-quality NZ dairy products from OFI’s global customers and to expand the range of products manufactured.

Record profit for Anzco Foods ANZCO Foods has navigated a challenging year to deliver a record net profit before tax of $75 million for the year ended December 2021. The company booked turnover of $1.64 billion for the year, with an after-tax profit of $54.3m. “The successful 2021 result builds on the previous two years’ results with a focus on core business activities and increased investment in business systems and data analysis to ensure good decision making,” Anzco Foods chief executive Peter Conley says. “It is important to recognise the efforts of our people who

have worked incredibly hard in challenging times to deliver a strong performance across the Anzco Foods business.” Conley says the result also reflects Anzco Foods’ continued focus on consumer needs and customer relationships in key markets and being able to navigate supply chain pressures occurring as a result of covid-19. In addition, the focus on revenue, yields, and value-add performance, has enabled the payment of consistently high farm-gate returns during the last three years,” he says. Conley also highlighted

progress made on Anzco’s climate change and sustainability programme, with two key projects in 2021 removing about 4200T of coal use and 8500T of carbon annually. “With the 2022 year well underway it is evident the strong demand for products is continuing but the challenges also remain. “ANZCO Foods remains committed to doing all we can to help New Zealand’s recovery from covid-19 by continuing to deliver strong returns and ensure the red meat sector remains in good heart,” Conley says.

GOOD STUFF: Anzco chief executive Peter Conley says it is evident the strong demand for products is continuing but the challenges also remain.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Contractors navigate maize costs Gerald Piddock gerald.piddock@globalhq.co.nz TWO of Waikato’s biggest rural contractors want the arable industry to update its maize growing contracts to account for the massive increase in input prices seen in the past 12 months. Waikato contractors Brook Nettleton and John Austin had contracts with farmers signed at the start of the season to supply farmers with maize. They told the Waikato Federated Farmers arable annual meeting in Hamilton they were caught out by the massive hike in input costs between sowing and harvest times. “We have tried to put our costs up by 20-25%. Fuel has gone up 100%, machinery’s gone up 2530% and labour’s probably done the same,” Nettleton said. The harvest period has also condensed from previously being in March-April to now occurring in March.

The growers’ issue of not being profitable is going to affect us. The growers issue of not being profitable as it supplies feed to the dairy industry has an impact to that. John Austin Waikato rural contractor “It’s a massive cost because we have to get other people to help do the harvest because we can’t do it all in March,” he said. His business, Blue Grass Contracting, operates 12 truck and trailer units that he typically uses for harvest. This year he used an extra 15 to try and get it done. “All of a sudden it was costing us $30,000-$40,000 a day to finish our season.” Those costs have to be passed on, he said. Austin said their fuel costs doubled over the course of the season and this price volatility was a big risk to their business. “Brook and our issue is everybody’s issue,” he said. “The contracts we sign to plant need to be viable at harvest.” Waikato Federated Farmers arable chairman Keith Holmes supported the call. “Somehow we need to make sure the farmer’s not screwed,

the contractor’s not screwed and everybody else in the chain is not screwed to the point that they go bankrupt,” he said. The maize industry, with the help of Federated farmers, will work on a contract template for farmers and contractors to account for the true cost of growing the crop. Austin said the industry has to be aware everybody’s issues. “The growers’ issue of not being profitable is going to affect us. The growers issue of not being profitable as it supplies feed to the dairy industry has an impact to that.” Managing those costs inside the industry so the product still reaches the end user while ensuring everyone is viable was really important. “If anybody loses in that chain, the industry is screwed,” he said. Nettleton said the contract has to flexible enough to take into consideration the volatility that input prices are going through. The high costs of growing maize could see many growers not growing it unless it was pre-sold. “Everybody’s got to be of an understanding now that we’re in a different world and that different world is going to have a different understanding of what is the standard.” Farmers have to realise this is what it costs now to grow maize in Waikato. “We need to be smarter about it and we need the support of everyone else for farmers to realise this is the true cost.” Corson Maize national sales manager Graeme Austin said their best cost estimates for growing maize from spray out to covering the stack was $5273.75/ hectare. If grown on-farm using a full fertiliser programme, he said it will cost 25c/kg drymatter and using effluent instead of chemical fertiliser, it would cost 22c/kg DM based on a 20 tonne per hectare yield. The cost to buy silage in ranged from 40-48 cents depending on the distance travelled. For maize grain, he estimated it costs around $370/t including storage, drying and kibbling. He recommended budgeting at $400 a tonne. He encouraged farmers to sit down with their contractor to work out where those costs could sit knowing it could change over the season. “There still a real opportunity for growing maize at a reasonable price on the farm that should be acceptable for farmers to pay that based on current payouts and costs of feed.”

FAIRNESS: Waikato contractors say the contracts they sign to plant maize need to account for the massive volatility in input costs occurring so they are still economically viable when the crop is harvested.

ENSURE THEY REACH THEIR PEAK POTENTIAL The essential building blocks for optimal health including vitamin B12 in one convenient injection.

Ensure young stock become future high producers through improved health, growth and energy at:

futureproducers.co.nz    PROUDLY AVAILABLE FROM YOUR LOCAL PARTICIPATING VETERINARY CLINIC Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health New Zealand Limited. Level 3, 2 Osterley Way, Manukau, Auckland, New Zealand. MARKS-MIN® is a registered trade mark of the Boehringer Ingelheim Group. Registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997, No. A011687. See product label for full claim details and directions for use. © Copyright 2021 Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health New Zealand Ltd. All rights reserved. NZ-BOV-007-2021.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Crown Pastoral Land Reform Bill passes Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz A GOVERNMENT led by the National Party will repeal the Crown Pastoral Land Reform Bill, which was passed by Parliament this week. Nicola Grigg, the party’s Land Information spokesperson, has made the promise claiming the Bill introduces a punitive and adversarial system of management, bypassing stewardship by generations of leaseholders. Land Information Minister Damien O’Connor says the Bill modernises management of 1.2 million hectares of South Island high country. It also ends tenure review, a process he says was becoming costly and uncertain for applicants and the Crown. “This Bill strikes a balance between recognising the place of pastoral farming as a legitimate use of the land, while protecting the importance of the unique values of our high country to NZ,” he says in a statement. The Government accepts “ongoing sustainable pastoral farming” is the best way to manage this land, but the legislation needed modernising to achieve this.

O’Connor says the Bill reaffirms leaseholders’ rights as pastoral farmers, but amends regulations so management balances the ecological, landscape, cultural, heritage and scientific values inherent to the land.

Given some of these farms were developed by settlers a century ago, this is an absolute nonsense. Nicola Grigg National MP “This includes clarifying dayto-day farming practices, while improving consenting of activity that might impact those inherent values of the high country and addressing public expectations around access to the back country.” Grigg counters that the changes prevent leaseholders from making decisions that could enhance the land, such as clearing weeds, which will now require consent. “Nor will leaseholders be able

to maintain roads and tracks that aren’t on the Land Information NZ (LINZ) register. “Given some of these farms were developed by settlers a century ago, this is an absolute nonsense. “National believes the best approach to ensuring ongoing enhancement of the high country would be by using legally binding farm environmental plans, created in partnership between DOC, LINZ and the leaseholders.” Meanwhile the Department of Conservation has received 160 submissions on legislative options for reclassifying stewardship land. DOC’s director operations Karl Beckert expects to release a summary of those submissions in the middle of the year. More than 2.7m ha, about 30% of conservation area, is classified as stewardship land which refers to protection based on the land’s natural and historic values. Last year the Government announced steps to streamline the reclassification process, including legislative changes and the establishment of national panels to provide technical assessments and make recommendations to the Minister of Conservation.

GONE: National’s land information spokesperson Nicola Grigg says it will repeal the Crown Pastoral Land Reform Bill if it is able to form a government at the next election.

Book Summit from

$699* *Special independent farmer & producer rate

6 & 7 July 2022 | Cordis, Auckland

Enhancing primary sector collaboration to achieve sustainable growth Keynote Speakers DIANA RODGERS

MEL POULTON

Dietitian, Author, Filmmaker & Executive Direcor, Global Food Justice Alliance (USA)

Tararua Sheep & Beef Farmer and NZ Trade Envoy

primaryindustries.co.nz

Diamond Sponsor

Platinum Sponsor

Gold Sponsors

In Partnership with

Organised by

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Warning over crop consents Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz AS MANY farmers grapple with a looming feed crisis this winter, planning for next winter may also demand attention sooner rather than later with changes in the winter grazing regulations effective from November 1. The revised intensive winter grazing (IWG) regulations finalised last month may require some farmers to apply for resource consent to winter graze crops on their farm and timelines are getting tight to ensure consent is granted before crops are sown. AgFirst director of farm consulting James Allen says time can run surprisingly short for a feed supply that is not needed for another 12 months, once resource consent application processes are factored in. “Basically, a resource consent is required if you are looking at a new wintering programme, there are a series of conditions you have to meet and it’s likely it will take time to ensure you meet them.” Allen agreed for many upper North Island farmers, winter feed regulations may have been viewed as something only pertinent to Southland’s farming systems. But with feed costs on an ever-upward plane and farmers exploring all options to grow more feed at home, he says it is possible winter cropping, particularly in places like South Waikato, will be under consideration. At present Allen’s company

is only processing a consent application for one large farming client and he says it was difficult to know exactly how much time, skill and cost each application would involve. DairyNZ’s lead advisor on solutions and development Justin Kitto says even Canterbury farmers tended to view the winter grazing regulations as more of a “Southland-Otago” issue, but it is not. He said decisions are being made now that may need reassessing once the regulations are considered. “That could be deciding to use a certain paddock this season as a sacrifice paddock over any wet spells, with a view to sowing it for a winter crop next year. “Such a paddock may end up exceeding the maximum slope allowable and end up needing a consent to be used for winter crops.” Kitto says it was understandable if farmers had not yet considered next winter, given the challenges faced just getting through this one. Waikato Regional Council consents manager Amy Robinson confirmed the national regulations require a consent when the IWG is being conducted on land not used for IWG during the 2014-2019 period, or the area grazed is to increase compared to whatever area was grazed over that time. A consent is also required if no freshwater farm plan is held for

DEADLINE: AgFirst director James Allen is advising farmers to start thinking about next winter’s feed plans if they may require a crop.

the property, or certain limits and standards cannot be met. These include being unable to remain within the threshold of 10% of farm area or 50ha,and where the slope exceeds 10 degrees.

For some applicants demonstrating their proposal satisfies that threshold may pose a significant challenge. Amy Robinson Waikato Regional Council Consent is also required where there are issues around stock setbacks from water, critical source areas exist, and pugging issues may exist. Kitto says he believed the one condition that may trigger a resource consent for most farmers would be the 10 degree slope limit. Robinson confirmed Waikato

Regional Council had received no consent applications as yet. She said it was unclear whether the freshwater farm plan pathway would be realistically available to farmers for the 2023 season. Any consents required for land not used for IWG between 20142019, or was increased in area, were generally more involved. They represent a new or expanded IWG area and the new regulations set a high effects threshold as to whether they would be granted at all. “For some applicants demonstrating their proposal satisfies that threshold may pose a significant challenge.” She says the time and cost in getting a consent was dependent upon a number of factors, including the application’s quality, scale, location, mitigation, and the environment’s sensitivity. Under the Resource Management Act a maximum of 20 working days applies for non-notified applications, but timeframes can be extended in some circumstances or put on hold. She confirmed if farmers thought a consent was needed for 2023, council recommended they

apply as early as practicable. A “actual and reasonable” cost would be incurred in processing the consents. Kitto says when the regulations were sent back for review last year the industry hoped a simple, cheap consenting template would evolve. He understood councils were working together where possible to try and unify and simplify the consent process. However, farmers could also expect to see some regionalspecific variations on the national standards evolve. “In Southland for example, the buffer to water courses which is 5m in the national regulations may become 10m under regional rules.” He says the industry would have preferred a 15 degree slope allowance, and DairyNZ supported farms being able to winter graze a larger area without triggering the need for consent. However, the rules around pugging and re-sowing had become more practical. “And many farmers are already going above and beyond in their efforts around protecting waterways.”

Call goes out for unwanted agrichemicals Staff reporter CANTERBURY farmers and growers are being urged to make use of a subsidised programme to return their unwanted or expired agrichemicals. Throughout June, Agrecovery is running several chemical recovery events in the Canterbury region. With free or subsidised recovery and disposal of more than 3000 products, the programme provides the perfect opportunity to safely dispose of potentially dangerous chemicals. Agrecovery chief executive Tony Wilson says the agrichemical recovery programme is a crucial part of the work Agrecovery does to ensure the safety of

the environment and the future of the agriculture and horticulture industries. “These are chemicals that could pose a safety risk by being left in sheds,” Wilson says. “Recovering old legacy or unwanted chemicals ensures they don’t end up in landfills or in our waterways. We want to see farmers and growers book safe disposal to alleviate any potential safety risk.” Bookings for the June Canterbury events are essential. Farmers, growers, and contractors can log their unwanted and expired chemicals for collection with Agrecovery by registering at agrecovery. co.nz or calling 0800 247 326. Bookings close May 27.

DO THE RIGHT THING: Agrecovery chief executive Tony Wilson says the agrichemical recovery programme is a crucial part of the work Agrecovery does to ensure the safety of the environment and the future of the agriculture and horticulture industries.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

New loan requires less gas and more care Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz FARMERS wanting to borrow against their environmental and social goals now have the ability to raise a loan and earn a discounted interest rate, should those goals be achieved. BNZ has announced an agribusiness sustainability linked loan (SLL) product , claimed to be the first of its type available to farmers. Head of natural capital Dana Muir says while there have been loans made available that link to specific sustainability projects on farm, BNZ’s product is not limited to a set amount and can be drawn from the bank’s entire capital pool. “This is more about BNZ setting a target of $10 billion of sustainable finance lending to be achieved by 2025,” she says. The prototype for the SLL was founded in BNZ’s three-year $50 million sustainability linked farm loan to dairy farming company Southern Pastures, owners of Lewis Road Creamery. The deal with the 20-farm company targeted environmental

performance, with AsureQuality acting as an independent on-farm auditor visiting annually to collect data and verify progress. Discounts on interest rates will be applied during the loan’s term when targets are met.

It is crucial we reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the structure of our SLL reflects that. Dana Muir BNZ Muir confirmed the system would be similar for the bank’s SLL product, with greenhouse gas emission reductions being a nonnegotiable outcome of the loan’s investment. Beyond that, farmers have the opportunity to choose from a range of environmental and social measures they may wish to address.

“It is crucial we reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the structure of our SLL reflects that,” she says. Other goals farmers may wish to incorporate include pollution prevention and control, sustainable use and protection of water and waste prevention and recycling. Social goals like animal welfare, labour practices and health and safety are also included. The loan’s term has to run for more than three years and AsureQuality will also be providing the auditing assessment on an annual basis. While the auditing costs will be at the expense of the borrower, Muir says the pricing benefits of achieving the targets considers the expense and effort of assessment. “If you achieve the targets it works in your favour.” Muir says the sustainable financing sector was an invaluable tool available to help farmers achieve their environmental and social targets at a time when expectations and regulations were intense. Globally, the sustainable finance

sector has undergone extraordinary growth in recent years. Financial data company Refinitiv reported that in 2021 the sector, which did not exist a decade ago, had sustainability linked loans surge 300% to more than US$700 billion, more than three times the previous record. Muir says HOLISTIC: BNZ’s Dana Muir says the bank’s sustainability the BNZ’s linked loan will reflect farmers’ goals across a wide range of loan product environmental and social areas. was the first of its type in NZ and These were developed by the possibly the world, based on the Aotearoa Circle industry and bank’s own assessment. agency group last year and were The loan is also the first of aimed specifically at developing its type to come in under the sustainable financing for the Sustainable Agriculture Finance primary sector. Initiative (SAFI) outlines.

Fieldays reopens exhibitor applications Staff reporter EXHIBITOR applications have reopened for this year’s Fieldays at Mystery Creek after the event was shifted to late November because of covid lockdown restrictions. The event attracts on average 130,000 people through the gates annually and this year will run from November 30-December 3. With 80% of exhibitor sites being retained for this year’s event, there are limited spaces for organisations to apply. New Zealand National Fieldays Society chief executive Peter Nation said that this

BIG SHOW: About 130,000 people attend Fieldays every year.

is a one-off opportunity for organisations to make the most of a summer Fieldays. “We understand the frustrations directed at postponement for farmers, growers, and contractors who will be in their busy season. Though on the other hand, postponement creates opportunity for New Zealand businesses who may not usually be able to take part in winter.” Nation said they were excited at the prospect of holding a November-December event. “This summer Fieldays event is a unique, one-off opportunity for organisations

to jump on the chance to boost sales, invest in their brand presence and connect with their customers face-to-face.” Shifting the four-day agri event also means that the gates at Mystery Creek will open to international visitors and exhibitors as New Zealand’s borders are set to open by July 31. “As a world-renowned event, it would be incredible to be able to welcome attendees and organisations from across the globe for the first time since 2019,” Nation said. “The conversations, connections, and meetings that could potentially take

place at Fieldays 2022 would help drive our primary sector’s output and reputation worldwide.” The different running time for this year opened up opportunities for organisations who usually cannot exhibit during the event’s traditional June period, he said. “The timing of Fieldays 2022 will suit many attending from overseas, who may choose to attend Fieldays and then enjoy a long summer holiday with friends and whānau. This within itself will bring an economic boost and much-needed tourism to our regions.”

The timing of Fieldays 2022 will suit many attending from overseas, who may choose to attend Fieldays and then enjoy a long summer holiday with friends and whānau. This within itself will bring an economic boost and muchneeded tourism to our regions. Peter Nation New Zealand National Fieldays Society

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

AgResearch embraces Mātauranga Māori Staff reporter CROWN Research Institute AgResearch has launched a new Māori Research and Partnerships Group to help incorporate Mātauranga Māori into its existing science structures. Its head Ariana Estoras says Mātauranga Māori will add to the toolbox AgResearch has to work with in tackling farming’s big issues. The move also helps embed Te Ara Tika into AgResearch’s everyday work, which is a national plan to embrace Te Ao Māori values and tikanga-based principles to better respond to Māori needs and better deliver to Māori aspirations. “What we are striving for is an approach where we are adding knowledge and impact to the important science we have always done, so that we can respond with Māori to their needs and aspirations, but also help provide better solutions to farmers and all of society in Aotearoa,” Estoras, who comes from a background in science, says. “Unfortunately, some have

viewed Mātauranga Māori as somehow diluting or being out of step with the science we’ve always done in Aotearoa. “Some of this seems to be based on a lack of understanding and therefore an inability to see the value we can create. “Our approach is centred around the strength of having more than one knowledge system contributing to solutions for some of the most complex challenges facing our communities. “One way of looking at it is having the benefit of a `wise old head’ who has gathered knowledge not just from formal settings but also from life experience learning and interacting with farming and the natural world.” Estoras says it is encouraging to see the increasing recognition across the science and research sectors of the value Māori people, resources and knowledge can bring. In agriculture, this means growing connections between the scientists and Māori farmers and landowners who bring huge collective wisdom and a hunger

for positive change in line with Kaitiakitanga (living in balance with the natural environment as guardians) of the land. “The environmental challenges for farmers and Aotearoa as a whole are obviously front and centre right now, and I have no doubt that this is an area where Mātauranga Māori can enhance what the science already has to offer where it comes to best use of productive land, water quality and reducing the climate change impact.” Estoras hails from Ngāti Uekaha and Ngāti Maniapoto, and as a child spent a lot of time learning from her grandfather on his Waitomo farm. After studying molecular genetics and gaining her Master’s degree in biochemistry, she worked with the Manuel whānau on the East Coast with a genetic disorder that resulted in members of the whānau losing their sight. Her work helped provide the whānau with some answers and was a launching pad for a career in science in Aotearoa and overseas that has since led to her moving into the primary

INCLUSIVE: AgResearch’s Māori Research and Partnerships Group Ariana Estoras says it is encouraging to see the increasing recognition across the science and research sectors of the value Māori people, resources and knowledge can bring.

industries, and more recently into leadership as AgResearch’s director of Māori research and partnerships. The focus of the new group is “to continue to build Māori capacity and beneficial Māoricentred research led by and with Māori partners, while taking everyone with us”. “I have been able to work at

the coalface with many Māori groups across my lifetime and was able to create bridges between science, policy and funding and what they were looking to achieve, and I get a real buzz from that. I also feel privileged to be among the wāhine Māori in leadership roles in Aotearoa and helping to provide a path for our young people to follow.”

Know your Mindset. Do what Matters Training for rural people navigating change A short, practical training programme supporting rural men and women to manage multiple pressures, calmly and clearly. Join us to press pause, cut through the noise and focus on what matters most. • • • • • •

Have better family discussions, particularly succession Prioritise personal and family wellbeing Be more focussed with the to-do list Improve team culture Hear others share similar feelings of stress or pressure And more…

Two-part online programme runs evening of: • 7 & 14 June • 9 & 16 June

“The planning tools and values exercises helped us create the vision for our native tree nursery.” - Dave Swney & Alice Trevelyan, dairy farming in Waikato

Farmers, growers, families & rural professionals

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Call centre gearing up for Moving Day Colin Williscroft colin.williscroft@globalhq.co.nz MOVING Day is approaching fast and Ospri’s recently-appointed support and customer service manager Adam Wright hopes a support centre restructure will help make recording herd movements easier for farmers. Moving Day is officially June 1 and DairyNZ estimates about 5000 farmers pack up and move around that time ahead of the new season, although these days moving is spread well beyond a 24-hour period. It’s the busiest time of the year for Ospri’s support centre, with Wright expecting it to receive about 60 calls an hour, which amounts to around 480 to 500 calls a day, related to Moving Day. He says Mondays are always the busiest day of the week, which is common among all types of call centres, as people think about what they need to do over the weekend and then pick up the phone on Monday. The centre will also receive up to 800 emails a week, while the Ospri website offers a self-service option that it’s hoped more farmers will take advantage of. Wright says the number of calls the centre gets at the moment is double what it might get at other times of the year and it will peak at triple that number. He says in the past the majority of calls came all at once towards the end of June, with a long tail-off into July. “That’s one of the things we’ve being trying to address this year,

BE PROACTIVE: Ospri support and customer service manager Adam Wright says the sooner dairy farmers record herd movements this Moving Day the easier it will be for everyone.

with a lot of comms around a tongue-in-cheek, friendlier tagline ‘Be a mate, update Nait’, trying to let people know that the earlier they get organised with this, the easier it will be all-round.”

The support centre is covered by a team of 30, with six of those still in training, although Wright says by early June everybody should be up and running. There’s been a slight change

recently to the hours the centre operates. It used to run 7am to 7pm Monday to Friday, but Wright says no one had previously looked into how effective that coverage was. “I’ve got a long history in service centres and (recent) analysis showed farmers don’t want to talk to us between 7am and 8am, so we were sitting there doing nothing, then after 5pm, they don’t really want to talk to us either, they’re wanting dinner, they’re wanting to be done for the day. “We could see all of the calls were happening between 8am to 5pm, with a tiny bit outside that. “If you spread your staff outside where demand is you are weakening yourself in the middle, so we made the call to go with 8 to 5, Monday to Friday.” Wright says farmers can do a lot of, if not all of, what they need to do in terms of recording herd movements in their own time by going through the Ospri website, rather than potentially waiting in a phone call queue. “It’s going to be interesting this year because of how we are advertising and how we are talking to people is saying ‘selfservice, check out the website, you can do a whole lot of this stuff yourself without having to wait for us, do it in your own time’. “Then come to us if you’ve got a question. “We’re not hiding the fact that there are 0800 numbers, just pushing that (self-service on the website) more. “There’s only a very small group

I don’t want to take away phones, they have got to be there, but if there’s a big group who can look after themselves, that means we can do a better job looking after the ones who can’t. Adam Wright Ospri of people now who can’t do selfservice. “I don’t want to take away phones, they have got to be there, but if there’s a big group who can look after themselves, that means we can do a better job looking after the ones who can’t.” Wright grew up in a rural community and he wants to combine that knowledge with his call centre experience, particularly with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), to help make sure farmers are looked after. Although he grew up on a Waikato kiwifruit orchard all his neighbours were dairy farmers and he used to go relief milking, so he has some experience in the dairy sector. “I’ve been doing call centre stuff for a long time so it’s good to be able to use everything I have learned and apply it to a sector that I really care about.”

Taratahi liquidators await decision on land sales Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz THE future remains uncertain for the former assets of Taratahi Agricultural Training Centre, which was placed in liquidation in December 2018. The latest report by liquidator Grant Thornton states the centre’s farms will operate as commercial entities through the 2022-23 farming season while it awaits the outcome of a High Court case heard late last year on whether it can sell campus land. The Wairarapa Campus and Home Dairy farmland are subject to the Taratahi Agricultural Training Centre (Wairarapa) Act

We continue to work with the Government to a find an acceptable landowner for the purposes of the Taratahi Act and who can provide commercial value for the benefit of all creditors. Grant Thornton Liquidators

1969 and require approval from the Minister of Agriculture before it can be sold. “We continue to work with the Government to a find an acceptable landowner for the purposes of the Taratahi Act and who can provide commercial value for the benefit of all creditors,” the liquidator’s report notes. Short term leases of the Home Campus educational facilities have been approved, which the liquidator says is evidence the campus is fit for purpose and could be used by an education provider. When appointed liquidator, Grant Thornton revealed 1194 unsecured creditors were owed $15.9m. To date it has received claims from 247 unsecured creditors totalling $15.2m. “It is unknown the amount of funds that will be available to make payment to unsecured creditors as it is dependent on the sale of the Home Campus and Dairy farm.” For the six month period to early February, the assets generated $2.4m in income, mostly from the operation of the commercially focused farms, consisting of $1.8m from milk and $200,000 from sales of trading livestock.

STILL GOING: Short term leases of the Home Campus educational facilities have been approved, which the liquidator says is evidence the campus is fit for purpose and could be used by an education provider.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Trade challenge launched over Canada dairy access Nigel Stirling nigel.g.stirling@gmail.com NEW ZEALAND has finally pulled the trigger on a legal challenge against Canada’s failure to uphold its end of the bargain in the Comprehensive and Progressive TransPacific Partnership trade agreement. “Our priority is to ensure that NZ exporters have meaningful access to the benefits negotiated under CPTPP, and that all parties fulfil the commitments they have made to each other under the agreement,” Trade Minister Damien O’Connor said. O’Connor said Canada had violated the rules of the agreement by continuing to block the use of quotas created to prise open access to its highly-protected domestic dairy markets to exports from CPTPP countries in 2019. NZ dairy exporters have complained the Canadians had largely shut out them out of their domestic market by awarding between 85% and 100% of 16 special quotas created under CPTPP to local processors. As a result less than 10% of the annual quota for dairy imports created under the agreement had been filled in its first three years. Outside of the quota limits NZ dairy exporters face trade-killing quotas of between 200% and 300%. “CPTPP sets high standards for all parties and it is important these standards are maintained to ensure that our exporters can benefit from the agreement in a way that is fair and commercially meaningful,” O’Connor said.

O’Connor put the losses to NZ exporters from not being able to fully use the quotas at $68m over the CPTPP’s first two years. If no corrective action was taken those losses could be expected to mount as the quota tonnages increased under the terms of the agreement. The abuse of the quotas has exasperated NZ trade officials who have raised the matter repeatedly with their Canadian counterparts over the past three years.

Occasionally even good friends disagree, and it’s for that reason dispute settlement mechanisms in free trade agreements such as CPTPP exist to provide a neutral forum for settling such disputes. Damien O’Connor Trade Minister “The underfill [in quota] is ridiculous,” one highly-ranked NZ trade official said. “They say ‘yes, we are looking at it’ but nothing ever happens.” The official said NZ had been encouraged any challenge under CPTPP would have a sound legal footing after a tribunal ruling against Canada in January over virtually the same manipulation

of quota arrangements under its trade agreement with the United States and Mexico. That had raised hopes among exporters that any fix as a result of the USMCA ruling would be carried across to the CPTPP quotas. However Canada is still to formally respond to that ruling and the NZ government appears to have run out of patience. “NZ has an excellent relationship with Canada,” O’Connor said. “We have appreciated Canada’s engagement on this issue at different levels over a number of years and these proceedings will not come as any surprise to them. “Occasionally even good friends disagree, and it’s for that reason dispute settlement mechanisms in free trade agreements such as CPTPP exist to provide a neutral forum for settling such disputes.” Canada now has until this coming Thursday to respond to NZ’s request for consultations before these commence. If the dispute remains unresolved NZ can request the formation of a panel of judges to adjudicate. It is the first legal challenge by NZ using the dispute settlement mechanism of a free trade agreement and the first by any member of the CPTPP against another since it was signed. NZ has won all of its nine cases against trading partners under the auspices of the World Trade Organisation dispute settlement tribunals since they were set up in the 1990s. The first was against Canada

NOT ON: Trade Minister Damien O’Connor says Canada had violated the rules of the CPTPP by continuing to block the use of quotas created to prise open access to its highly-protected domestic dairy markets to exports from member countries in 2019.

over the subsidisation of its dairy exporters in 1997. However the WTO has been effectively shut off as a legal

Keep an eye out

avenue after former United States President Donald Trump blocked appointments to its appellate court.

JUNE 2022 | $8.95

The latest issue of Dairy Farmer will hit letterboxes on May 30. Our OnFarmStory this month features a Canterbury farmer who has taken over a farm and, with the help of a contract milker, is making big changes. We also catch up with a Waikato farmer who leaves his calves with their mums and we chat with cow lameness guru Neil Chesterton. Also this month, we celebrate the 2022 Dairy Industry Award winners and take a look at robotics and automation.

farmersweekly.co.nz 0800 85 25 80

Taking the reins

A Canterbury farmer

finds her feet in farm ing

PLUS:

Happy cows ➜ Leaving calves with

their mums ➜ Fixing foot problem s ➜ Cream of the dairy industry

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Farming calmly through pressure A new online programme – Know your Mindset. Do what Matters – is boosting the ability of rural communities to handle pressure and change. Dairy farmer Matt Goodwin discusses how it’s helped him. MATT Goodwin has plenty on his plate. He oversees not just one farm, but two – the family’s South Canterbury dairy operation comprises a 600-cow farm and a 300-cow farm. It’s a big job, but Matt loves dairying. “I really enjoy being my own boss and working outside. Farming’s really practical too. If you make the right call and change something, you immediately see the benefits in the vat.” The pressure to perform, however, is constant. “This is a seven-day-a-week, 365-day-a-year industry. It never stops. There are also lots of things you have no control over, but still have to deal with. For example, the weather.” Goodwin’s responsibilities have grown over the years.

I think I’m a lot more accepting of bad days. I see them for what they are and try not to catastrophise like I used to. Matt Goodwin Dairy farmer

“That was something that really hit me when the farm was expanding. I was 27, had 1000 animals to look after and six or seven other people’s livelihoods, as well as my own, at stake. I learnt the hard way that managing the to-do list is a real trick. It is possible in farming to just work and worry all the time.” He says there are also times during the season when staying positive would be a challenge for anyone. “If you’re bogged down in the rain during calving season working very long hours it’s very easy to get into ‘catastrophising’ - blowing small things that go wrong out of proportion in your head. “For example, you might get a wet day in spring when the cows go and turn a paddock into mud and you’re thinking ‘oh no, that’s never going to grow again’. It feels like the end of the world. But actually, if you go back in a month’s time it might be a bit pugged, but it’s green again. You definitely need the right mindset to cope.” So last year when Goodwin heard about the Know your Mindset. Do what Matters course, he signed up. The programme, developed and delivered by the Agri-Women’s Development Trust (AWDT) with the support of the Ministry for

farmstrong.co.nz

Primary Industries, Farmstrong and Beef + Lamb New Zealand, has proved popular. More than 300 people have completed it to date with a further eight programmes set to roll out shortly. The course comprises two online evening sessions, one week apart. Goodwin credits it with helping him make better decisions on farm. A good example is achieving time off. Goodwin loves his hunting and fishing but struggled to find time for either. “I’d be invited along on a three-day hunting trip right in the middle of calving, but always turned it down because we were so busy. That really frustrated me.” He says the course encouraged him to think more strategically. “Instead of not doing anything at all during calving, I started to do half a day’s fishing or hunting. If I just picked a nice warm, afternoon when things were going well, I could get off farm to fish and come back feeling positive. The programme definitely changed the ‘all or nothing’ mindset I had. “It also helped me accept the reality of the dairy calendar – that it’s ‘uphill’ to Christmas with calving, mating and irrigation and ‘downhill’ afterwards. I used to try and fight that mentally, now I’ve learnt to take it on the chin. “So, instead of trying to roster lots of time off through calving, I just relax and spend more time on farm, focus on getting the end of the season right and then reward myself by taking more time off after Christmas. That’s when all the best hunting and fishing happens anyway.” The course also helped Goodwin manage the day-to-day pressures of the job. “My thinking’s far more flexible nowadays. If everything’s going well, I’ll think, ‘good staff, good rosters, cows are happy, sweet, away you go for a day’. Or if the weather turns bad for a month, I’ll think ‘right, time to pace yourself’ and I’ll schedule a bit of downtime on-farm so I’m not burning myself out.” He says having the right mindset is a huge help on days when nothing seems to go right. “I think I’m a lot more accepting of bad days. I see them for what they are and try not to catastrophise like I used to. When you’re thinking ‘oh no, we can’t carry on like this’, it helps to realise that’s just a one-off thought popping into your head. Don’t let it ruin your day. This programme helps you to take a step back and manage those pressure points calmy and clearly.” Goodwin says the bigger picture

LESS STRESS: Dairy farmer Matt Goodwin says farmers already seek expert advice on financial matters, livestock, the environment and staff development and mental skills training is just another pillar to support the business.

is that mental skills training is just another aspect of being organised on farm. “Farmers already seek expert advice on financial matters, livestock, the environment and staff development. Mental skills training is just another pillar to support the business. “Being in the right head space is important in farming. It’s like oiling the squeaky wheel on the silage wagon. The day that it rains, you know that the bearing will still

be going strong because you’ve greased it. This course is doing the same for your brain. You’re keeping all the cogs working at their best, so you don’t get bogged down mentally when things crop up. “I would definitely recommend Know Your Mindset to other farmers. It’s going to improve the decisions you make and how you perform on farm. It teaches you to look up from the to-do list, cut through the ‘noise’ and focus on

what matters most. It definitely helps you feel like you’re on top of your game.”

is the official media partner of Farmstrong

Registrations for now your Mindset. Do what Matters 2022 are now open via www.awdt.org.nz. Programmes start on Tuesday, June 7 and Thursday, June 9.

AginED Ag ED

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

Volume 106 I May 23th, 2022 I email: agined@globalHQ.co.nz I www.farmersweekly.co.nz/agined Are you a parent or teacher and want to receive AginED every week directly to your email inbox? Send us an email to sign up at agined@globalhq.co.nz

Bringing Native Bush Back to New Zealand Farmland

This graph shows NZ beef exports in thousand tonnes.

STRETCH YOURSELF: 1

Why do they choose autumn-calving?

2 What are some of the planting programmes that the government has invested in? Are there any more than the two Adam mentions? Should there be more investment made by the government for this purpose? Why or why not? 3 How many plants did they originally grow? What number has this grown to now? 4 Why would farmers want to retire portions of marginal grazing land to replant native bush? What would make areas suitable or more likely to be retired from grazing and established in native plantings?

Head to https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=kH4nVE1wAXk to watch the Onfarm Story of Adam Thompson who believes that establishing native flora on farmland goes beyond the obvious environmental and biodiversity benefits.

5 Adam talks about first generation colonisers, what are these? Can you name 4 or 5 species that fit this description? 6 How do they help to regenerate larger native species in the longer term? 7 Why is trapping an important element of native bush regeneration?

2 Which year/month on this graph were export volumes at the highest level? 3 Which year/month on this graph were export volumes at the lowest level?

STRETCH YOURSELF: 1

Where is Adam based?

2 How much land does Adam have and what does he do with it?

How do April exports compare to March?

How many less tonnes of beef products were exported in April compared to March and also April 2020-21? The combination of Omicron and short weeks due to public holidays had a part to play in this, why do you think that is?

2 What is the percentage decrease of April exports this year vs. last year?

TWO-THIRDS OF NEW ZEALAND POTATO PRODUCTION GOES INTO PROCESSING

3 China imported the lowest amount of NZ frozen beef for April since 2017 which meant their market share fell to 53%. What is meant by market share? 4 Looking at year-ago levels and the five-year average, which month would you expect export volumes to be at the highest level?

Some interesting facts about NZ Horticultural production

97% of Kumara is grown in Northland due to its warm climate

93% of tomatoes are grown in the North Island and most are grown inside

Onions have the largest export production of New Zealand vegetables

Half of carrot and parsnip production is in Canterbury

5 Which month would you expect export volumes to be at the lowest level?

What crops are grown in your region? What makes your area suitable for those species?

Seaweed fertiliser gaining ground Demand for seaweed derived bio-stimulants has jumped significantly this autumn compared to 2021 levels. This can be partly attributed to price increases of synthetic fertilisers and an inability to get some products that have been used traditionally, both due to new regulations and the diminishment of global supplies due to the war in Ukraine. Head to https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/ninetonoon/ audio/2018841647/boom-in-demand-for-seaweed-based-fertilisers to read about the NZ company at the forefront of seaweed bio-stimulants.

FILL YA BOOTS: Head to https://www.farmersweekly. co.nz/live-export-run-abandoned/ and read this article. 1

Why have these cattle not been able to be exported?

2 What destination were they headed for? 1

Where does AgriSea collect seaweed from currently?

2 Where in NZ is their factory located?

STRETCH YOURSELF: 1

AgriSea’s final product is considered to be a bio-stimulant. What does this mean?

2 How many species of seaweed are there in NZ? 3 Which species does AgriSea target? 4 Where are they currently developing a seaweed farm? Why did they decide to start this? 5 There is some research that purports seaweed supplements can reduce methane emissions from cattle. Do some research and see if you can find out more information regarding this. 6 To listen to the full interview follow this link: https://www.rnz.co.nz/audio/player?audio _ id=2018841647

3 What is the difference in price expected to be between the export premium and local sale price?

Newsmaker

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

STILL KEEN: Craige and Roz Mackenzie like to think they still have something to offer the NZ food and fibre sector and will stay involved where they can, to help farmers in business and the wider agricultural industry.

Farming with passion and precision Agricultural champions Craige and Roz Mackenzie have poured their heart and soul into their family farming operation over the past 40 years, but health challenges have force them off their land. They talked with Annette Scott.

he Mackenzie family farm, Greenvale Pastures, could easily be called the home of precision agriculture. Craige and Roz Mackenzie took over the Mid Canterbury farm from Craige’s parents Alastair and Noeline, having initially farmed together as a family through the 80s. “Like it was for everybody else, it was really tough times and the family’s philosophy of always doing the best with what you have got, no matter how little that be, is what drove our farming business then, and still does today,” Craige says. The difference today is that the 204 hectare farm near Methven has been strategically developed over the years into both a national and world leading arable operation. Leading edge technology combining with natural resources, has placed Greenvale Pastures at the forefront of environmental sustainability. But with the farm sold, come August their time on the land will draw to a close and as they prepare to move off the land, they are happy with what they have achieved. “There is a bigger journey now for Roz and I, family is not coming here to farm and driven by some health challenges we have been forced to make a tough decision. “That decision is our future, somewhere you have to realise what’s most important and if you don’t focus on your health, you have missed the plot. “We are happy with what we have achieved and where we have taken the farm.

“We have always said the land outlasts the people on it, we are just caretakers, there’s life after the farm and we are happy to hand it over now,” Craige says But he admits he is not ready to severe his farming ties completely. “I’d like to think we still have something to offer the NZ food and fibre sector, there’s a lot going on and I will stay involved where I can, to help farmers in business, the industry and NZ Inc. “I am particularly interested in the international influence we might be able to have.” It may be his Scottish ancestry, or it may be his love for detail but Craige has always been driven to achieve the best value for every input on Greenvale Pastures, including the Three Springs joint venture dairy they farmed for several years. The change from a dryland property in 1998 to become partially irrigated brought with it a wealth of learning for the Mackenzies as they discovered how to make the most from every drop of water. This began the Precision Ag journey for their cropping arm, and it’s where Agri Optics played a key role in Greenvale Pastures’ evolution. Their understanding of the productivity of the various types of soils across the farm grew, but their ability to apply fertiliser, chemicals or irrigation according to the known soil productivity was limited. That is when Agri Optics, now Vantage NZ, was born. While travelling the world on his Nuffield scholar study tour, Craige gained an insight into a wide range of technologies

and how they would fit into NZ farming systems. One of the greatest things he saw was the potential to reduce costs, environmental pressure and greenhouse gas emissions through more precise management of inputs. This sparked an interest in some specific products that he introduced into the family’s arable enterprise.

That decision is our future and somewhere you have to realise what’s most important and if you don’t focus on your health, you have missed the plot. Craige Mackenzie Mid Canterbury farmer In the same year daughter Jemma Mulvihill, co-founder and director of Vantage NZ, completed a study abroad at Colorado State University as part of her agricultural science degree. She completed papers looking at several aspects of precision agriculture and realised the potential the technology offered in increasing the efficiency and sustainability to farming systems across NZ. Agri Optics, launched by Jemma and her parents in 2010, was the result. The company rapidly developed due to its ability to provide clients with quality solutions delivering real value.

The company rebranded to Vantage NZ Agricultural Solutions Ltd in 2020 with the client base now encompassing arable, horticulture, pastoral and viticulture, along with council infrastructure and amenity management. Looking back Craige says apart from yield mapping from the combine harvester, precision ag was limited to the larger landmasses of Australia, USA and Canada where the benefits of GPS could be seen and understood in the use of large tractors with autotracking and overlap control. “There didn’t seem to be any benefit for the smaller, more intensive farms typical to NZ.” His 2008 Nuffield studies on understanding carbon footprint in farming systems changed that perception and since then Greenvale Pastures has embraced the farming technology revolution, its profitability and environmental impact have improved while also hoisting Craige onto the global platform. Two years later he and Roz were runners-up in the Lincoln University Foundation 2010 Farmer of the Year, followed in 2013 as supreme winners of the Canterbury Ballance Farm Environmental Awards, going on to win the coveted Gordon Stephenson Trophy national award. Craige is the former chair of the NZ Precision Agriculture Association, now Agri-Tech NZ, and a former board member of Precision Ag Australia and a current representative to the International Society of Precision Agriculture. He is involved in a number of industry research initiatives

in both the cropping and dairy sectors and sits on NZ Government technical advisory groups in the areas of water allocation and quality and Smart Agriculture. He was invited on two occasions, 2012 and 2014, to sit on the Global Farmer Roundtable in Iowa, a side event to the World Food Prize. In 2016 Craige was awarded the International Precision Ag Farmer of the Year in St Louis, US and more recently appointed to the Global Farmer Network board. One of the greatest honours though is closer to home when the Mackenzies received recognition from Environment Canterbury with an Outstanding Contribution Award for excellence and innovation in farm practices. “That was a real surprise and a real honour.” With no shortage of options when he moves off the land, he is also a trustee with the NZ Rural Leadership Trust that runs Kellogg and Nuffield and is the NZ delegate on the Nuffield International board. Craige has no regrets in his farming career. “You take an attitude to be in control of your own destiny and positive around the changes in what you are doing. “I have enjoyed the challenges of innovations, they have been both stimulating and rewarding, and that won’t go away as I continue to be involved in many spaces.” Meantime, the Mackenzies are building their new home in Methven while also looking forward to more time with family and exploring more of the country on their e-bikes.

New thinking

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Powering up the growth curve A family farm at the forefront of New Zealand’s environmental evolution is harnessing the sun to power its own post-harvest operation washing tonnes of potatoes at its Canterbury site. Annette Scott reports.

T 220kw the installation at Oakley’s Premium Fresh Vegetables post-harvest site in Southbridge is one of the largest in the South Island. Oakley’s worked with CPS Solar to implement the grid-tied solar system, where significant tons of spuds will be washed and graded using natural sun power. This reduces carbon emissions while efficiently storing, washing, packing and dispatching fresh vegetables across the country. The family business is taking steps towards the United Nations sustainable development goal for affordable and clean energy, setting an example to fellow Kiwi farms. “Work has been ongoing with what we are doing to reduce the impact we are having on the environment with precision agriculture techniques having been introduced over the years,” business founder and managing director Robin Oakley says. “New technology is being continually introduced and this journey with solar power is the next natural step for us as we move to increase sustainability in our business operations and to meet strategies and goals of industry and government.” The project complements the three Ballance Farm Environment awards Oakley’s won in 2020 for

PARTNERSHIP: Oakley’s worked with CPS Solar to implement the grid-tied solar system.

EVOLUTION: Oakleys founder and managing director Robin Oakley says the journey with solar power is the next natural step in the move to increase sustainability across the business operations and to meet strategies and goals of industry and government.

excellence in soil management, scientific monitoring and innovation. The business, taking in six generations of family, is harnessing the latest technology in other areas as well with extensive use of on-farm moisture probes that accurately measure soil moisture. The data is used to forecast irrigation needs in conjunction with up-to-date weather forecasts and crop demands. Oakleys also carries out soil and plant nutrient testing to ensure timing and amount of fertilser applications maximise the quality

and yield. “These are some of the tools we use to work beyond best practice and have a truly sustainable business. “We are committed as a family and as a business to leaving the earth better than we found it and proud to impact NZ’s environmental growth,” Oakley says. Robin Oakley has been passionate about growing vegetables since he was a young boy. The fifth generation grower grew up in rural Canterbury and it was his family that inspired him

to work in food production. He founded the company in 1985 with the vision of providing the freshest products to his customers. While his business is based out of Southbridge the produce comes from a number of locations across the region. Although he and his father before him and three generations before that have always had their own businesses, they have always worked together, pooled resources and learned a lot from each other on the way. “The farm where I started out with my father on the south

These are some of the tools we use to work beyond best practice and have a truly sustainable business. Robin Oakley Oakleys Premium Fresh Vegetables banks of the Waimakariri River is a century farm but I moved my business in 1999 because I needed more land with irrigation.” That need for extra land stemmed from his change of focus. Rather than supplying seed potatoes as his father did, Oakley started the brand Oakley’s Premium Fresh Vegetables and began supplying exactly that to local and domestic markets. Customers include Foodstuffs South Island taking in Pak ‘n’ Save, New World and Four Square. For the best growing opportunity Oakley leases paddocks from arable farmers according to the soil type, irrigation style and what the cropping rotation has been. The business grows, harvests, packs and sells fresh produce all year round, including varieties of potatoes, broccoli, beetroot and pumpkin. Oakley says the diverse team is committed to providing NZ their favourite vegetables with a commitment to quality from crop to supermarket being the family’s mission. This was affirmed with the family business taking out the NZ Food Hero award at the NZ Food Awards 2021.

Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

EDITORIAL

A carbon budget we can work with

SK and you shall receive. The primary industries certainly acquired a few carrots and avoided the sticks as the Government announced its carbon reduction budgets last week. The announcement includes a total of $710 million committed to agricultural emissions reduction efforts over the next four years. There will be a new research centre set up to address farming emissions and funding for forestry to develop alternatives to fossil fuels. If ever there was a time to embrace the moment, this is it. He Waka Eke Noa is progressing and farm emissions will be priced by 2025. There are real concerns with the options presented, but the alternative is even more prohibitive to farm businesses here. And, Forestry Minister Stuart Nash has indicated some more changes to policy may be coming. As we report this week, pre-1990 woodlots might soon be included in a farm’s carbon budget. That makes sense because good work is good work, irrespective of when it was done. No punitive system will ever find broad favour but it’s worth remembering the system can give back if the right ssteps are taken. Now, with this new injection of money for research and development, a platform has been laid to build an industry that leads the world in producing healthy and sustainable food. Various farming groups have been calling for more research on emissions reduction technologies and that message has been received. Every corner of our society is being asked to change as we try to slow the climate’s change. Industries are transitioning to cleaner energy, carmakers are pivoting to electronic vehicles and most importantly consumers are voting with their wallets. That challenge provides opportunities for those willing to evolve, but evolution needs investment, and now we have it. It’s time to use this opportunity to show the world what low-emission farming can be.

Bryan Gibson

LETTERS

Want to farm well? Get some sleep WE RAN an excellent Herd Managers Certificate course at the Waikato Polytechnic before NZQA units of learning killed it. It ran in all the main Waikato centres for young folk moving up the farming ladder to meet farmers’ needs. Feed budgeting was a special feature and I remember starting a class one day with the question – what is the greatest need on dairy farms? I was expecting the answer to be pasture cover, the feed wedge or feed reserves going into spring. A loud voice from the back of the room had the right answer - SLEEP! I doubt if much has changed

when you read concerns of today’s stressed out farmers. Clive Dalton Hamilton

Exports storm should end THROUGH your excellent Farmers Weekly I would like a reply from a spokesperson in the dairy sector regarding the question of the export of prime breeding stock to China. Has this sector of our primary industries not considered that the goal of China is to become self sufficient in the production of dairy produce? The dairy industry needs to look at what has happened in China regarding our gold

kiwifruit, Sun Gold or G3, which Zespri has the rights to. China has now more gold kiwifruit vines than in NZ. I have yet to see a full report on the loss of 6000 cattle and and 42 crew off Japan in September 2020. Modern electronic equipment on well-equipped vessels are able to track typhoons and are able to change course avoiding the dangerous centre of a typhoon. The recent news of a livestock carrier’s non-arrival in NZ because of delayed repairs to a propeller is an example of the conditions of the vessels used in this trade. I sincerely hope that the export of prime breeding stock

is based not only on earning a fast buck. I congratulate the Minister of Agriculture,Damien O’Connor for putting a ban on the export of live animals by sea to uphold NZ’s reputation for good animal welfare. Peter Besier Ex-mariner, Tasman

Letters to the Editor Letters must be no more than 450 words and submitted on the condition The New Zealand Farmers Weekly has the right to, and license third parties to, reproduce in electronic form and communicate these letters. Letters may also be edited for space and legal reasons. Names, addresses and phone numbers must be included. Letters with pen names will generally not be considered for publication.

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

ADVERTISING

PUBLISHER Dean Williamson 027 323 9407 dean.williamson@globalhq.co.nz

Javier Roca 06 323 0761 Livestock Partnership Manager 027 602 4925 livestock@globalhq.co.nz

Andy Whitson 027 626 2269 New Media & Business Development Lead andy.whitson@globalhq.co.nz Steve McLaren 027 205 1456 Auckland/Northland Partnership Manager steve.mclaren@globalhq.co.nz Jody Anderson 027 474 6094 Waikato/Bay of Plenty Partnership Manager jody.anderson@globalhq.co.nz Donna Hirst 027 474 6095 Lower North Island/international Partnership Manager donna.hirst@globalhq.co.nz Grant Marshall 027 887 5568 South Island and AgriHQ Partnership Manager grant.marshall@globalhq.co.nz

ISSN 2463-6002 (Print) ISSN 2463-6010 (Online) Debbie Brown 06 323 0765 Noticeboard/Word Only/Primary Pathways classifieds@globalhq.co.nz Grant Marshall 027 887 5568 Real Estate Partnership Manager realestate@globalhq.co.nz Andrea Mansfield 027 446 6002 Salesforce director andrea.mansfield@globalhq.co.nz PRODUCTION Lana Kieselbach 027 739 4295 production@globalhq.co.nz Advertising material adcopy@globalhq.co.nz SUBSCRIPTIONS subs@globalhq.co.nz Printed by Stuff Ltd Delivered by Reach Media Ltd

0800 85 25 80

Best letter each week wins a quality Victorinox Hiker knife

So go on! Stick the knife in WRITE TO The Editor, Farmers Weekly P.O. Box 529, Feilding EMAIL farmers.weekly@globalhq.co.nz • FAX 06 323 7101

LK0107425©

Farmers Weekly is published by GlobalHQ, PO Box 529, Feilding 4740. New Zealand Phone: 0800 85 25 80 Website: www.farmersweekly.co.nz

Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Community is key to water management The

Pulpit

Craig Little

ONSTRAINTS around funding is a fundamental issue the Government is trying to tackle with its Three Waters model, but there’s a way of delivering this without trampling on property rights and community voice. It is unfortunate that instead of engaging with the people who have owned and run water assets in New Zealand for more than 100 years, they have taken a sledgehammer approach to the problem based on big promises from foreign models and highlypaid consultants. After reading Brian Hanna’s article in Farmers Weekly on April 4, it is no surprise that the Three Waters proposal has got to where it is and is so flawed. Despite the Government saying councils, community, iwi and Māori have been consulted with, there has in fact been little to no engagement around a proposal that had its outcome predetermined from the start. There was an initial sales pitch that promised any changes would be voluntary and stressed the importance of bringing along everyone. When it became obvious that no one was buying what they were selling they simply took that option away. This is not the democracy New Zealand prides itself on. Hanna was appointed by the Government through the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) as the independent chair of the Three Waters Steering Committee in June 2020. The key word here is independent. In my opinion, Hanna’s article is certainly not independent, it is very much in favour of the Government’s Three Waters Reform proposal. This steering committee should

have been set up alongside local government – the organisations that own the assets on behalf of their people. Instead, it was hand-picked by the DIA and appears heavily stacked with Three Waters Reform proposal supporters. Again, this is not democracy. The Joint Three Waters Steering Committee was established to provide oversight and guidance to support progress towards reform and to assist in engaging with local government, iwi/Māori and other water sector stakeholders on options and proposals. Unfortunately, the steering group wasn’t at the steering wheel. They were backseat passengers who did not listen to what communities and councils were telling them and did not look outside the brief of the Government to firstly identify why three waters has failed in New Zealand. I am disappointed that as a former Mayor himself, Hanna is satisfied with the lack of consultation and engagement that has taken place and is accepting of the fact the Government took away its promise of allowing councils to opt in or opt out of the process. It was in the late 1980s that the water infrastructure issues began after the Government of the day removed the water-related subsidies of the time. When these subsidies were stopped, councils then had to reprioritise their spending with three waters costs competing against other priorities. We then had successive Governments making rules and legislation that councils had to deliver on, but with no additional funding being given to achieve these ever-changing standards. If central Government makes a change and expects local government to deliver that change, there needs to be a mechanism for attracting funding attached to that. We cannot just keep putting up rates to absorb increasing costs that are created by central Government – yet that is the legacy of our issues. We only have to look at the significant improvements that councils have been able to make to their three waters infrastructure following the recent first tranche of money from the DIA in 2021. This is further evidence that what is needed is funding – not a change of delivery. If three waters funding was run in a similar way to roading, there could be assisted rates based on the same criteria NZTA Waka Kotahi uses, part of a coinvestment system that recognises there are national and local benefits from investment. A further issue was the lack of a national regulator. I commend this Government on

the formation of Taumatua Arowai last year. This will ensure consistent water standards throughout the country and it would have been more practical to leave this national regulator to settle into its position while councils start working towards the required standards. Hanna suggests Mayors and councillors are “feeding misinformation to their communities when research clearly shows these communities will benefit from the reforms. That is totally misleading. In fact, councils are the ones trying to keep their communities and iwi informed because of the lack of Government engagement and consultation around the three waters proposal. The only misinformation I have seen is the Government’s $3 million propaganda ad campaign. All councils responded to the DIA Request for Information, spending hundreds of hours gathering the required data, yet when the DIA fed the information back to councils many of us found that information fed back to us was incorrect. To add some irony to this, before the Government had even answered the questions local councils had raised about the proposal, the Government had already made it mandatory for all councils to be part of the process.

If three waters funding was run in a similar way to roading there could be assisted rates based on the same criteria NZTA Waka Kotahi uses, part of a co-investment system that recognises there are national and local benefits from investment. Unfortunately, the answers that the Government did give us were very generic and not specific to each of our areas. A major question Wairoa still has unanswered is around our biggest employer, Affco, and our partnership arrangement over the supply of water. How will this be honoured in the future? Communities have invested in their water services – will they be compensated? Furthermore, it is irresponsible to claim that ‘many’ chief executives are in favour of the reform. That is scaremongering and I would like to see the facts and data

WORK TOGETHER: Wairoa Mayor Craig Little says it is time for the Government to stand by its communities and give local councils the ability to access adequate funding so we can meet the three waters needs of today and the future.

to back this statement up. Polls have consistently shown the vast majority of New Zealanders do not support the Three Waters proposal in its current form. Wairoa District Council was one of the founding members of Communities 4 Local Democracy He hapori mō te Manapori, which was established in response to the absolute disappointment in the way the Government has bulldozed its way through the three waters process. Communities 4 Local Democracy now has more than 30 councils on board, as well as many other councils that have given support in principle. Hanna refers to public shareholding for the future ownership of the three waters assets, but again this is an empty promise. A shareholding without the normal rights and obligations of ownership is a Clayton’s shareholding, not worth the paper it’s written on. Do not forget these assets are owned by our communities that have paid for them through their rates. Any laws around asset ownership made by the Government today can be broken or changed by governments in the future. Nothing is set in stone, there is no security whatsoever. There is no better security than local people owning local assets. As a group we are not against change, but it needs to be sensible and needs to serve our communities well, which this proposal will not. There are no guarantees whatsoever that delivery will be

better under this proposal. There are suspect figures and flawed analysis, and you only have to look at the Government response to housing, health and mental health to know it does not always get it right. Now is the time for the Government to stand by its communities and work in partnership with us by giving local councils the ability to access adequate funding so we can meet the three waters needs of today and the future. I would also be interested in hearing Hanna’s opinion on the new Water Services Act (2021), which will see all unregistered drinking waters suppliers have to register with Taumata Arowai, and by 2028 all unregistered drinking water suppliers, including rural, marae, and Papakainga will need to meet the new Water Services Act, drinking water standards, and rules, or be using an acceptable solution as defined in the Act. Another case of taking a sledgehammer to a nut. I know my reply to Hanna’s letter may sound a bit complicated and I apologise to anyone who doesn’t understand this situation because disappointingly central Government has not taken you on its journey.

Who am I? Craig Little is the Mayor of the Wairoa District Council.

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

Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Pro-farming plan a nice surprise Alternative View

Alan Emerson

I LISTENED to the announcement of the Government’s Emission Reduction Plan (ERP), fully expecting it to be excessively prescriptive and anti-farming. I was wrong on both counts. I was also expecting a major thrust about biking, walking and using public transport. All possible in the cities but not in the food producing rural hinterland. While those topics are rightfully addressed, the document is far broader than I expected. Also, in the past I’ve been highly critical of the plant more trees and pollute at will mantra. My position is that we should be addressing the problems at source and not polluting at will and then mitigating that pollution by just planting more trees. The Government document recognises that. As with all documents there are parts I like and those I don’t. I do, however, support the general thrust of the publication. With many Government plans, initiatives and documents I become irritated with the anti-

farming bias and the blaming of agriculture for all our ills. The ERP offers solutions and pathways for the primary sector that I found both enlightening and encouraging. For a start, we’re about to get $710 million over four years from the Climate Emergency Response Fund (CERP). We’re getting a new Centre for Climate Action on Agricultural Emissions that will be responsible for developing and commercialising smart new products to reduce agricultural emissions. I found that extremely positive. There’s been much written about emissions-reducing products but having them developed and commercialised is a solid step forward. In just last weeks Farmers Weekly we had an article on the methane-reducing qualities of Asparagopsis and the trials being conducted with it. It all sounded really positive. That fund will also support getting Kowbucha, Bovaer and plantain on to the market. My position is that we can meet our methane reduction targets with the right tools. Having the Government recognising that and then putting its money behind it is a major change in approach and most welcome. The additional funding for forestry of $73.5m to increase woody biomass as an alternative to coal is also positive.

The additional 10,000 hectares of forest to increase our biomass supply is of concern and I’d like to see some assurances that it won’t occur on good food producing land as is currently happening with carbon farming. The additional money to scale up native seedling production to increase native planting and to create long term carbon sinks is a good move. I do believe natives have a solid long-term place in our GHG mitigation strategy and the initiative should encourage that. Many Government publications are big on grand plans and light on detail but the ERP isn’t. A simple example is that they’ve allocated $61m over four years to pay bus drivers more. That means there will be drivers for the inevitable increase in bus numbers. I also accept that electric cars are one initiative in the climate change strategy, albeit they’re not a lot of use in rural areas and there isn’t an electric ute option right now. I was rightly critical of the subsidisation of high-priced electric vehicles and the taxing of utes. Having said that I thought the “cash for clunkers” subsidy was good policy in that it encourages all into low emissions vehicles and not just the wealthy urbanite. Reaction to the Government’s initiatives has been interesting. Federated Farmers led the charge saying they were pleased

SOLUTIONS: Alan Emerson says the additional money to scale up native seedling production to increase native planting and to create long-term carbon sinks is a good move.

the Government had recognised that solutions to agricultural emissions lie in new technologies and tools and was stepping up investment to support it. President Andrew Hoggard said that nitrate and methane inhibitors, gene editing, animals bred for their lower methane burping would enable agriculture to support the NZ economy “while maintaining our world leading meat and dairy carbon footprint”. I agree. Greenpeace was apoplectic, claiming the document should be called an Omissions Ridiculous Plan as it didn’t address the dairy industry. I can only figure they didn’t read the document and would suggest, in all sincerity, that they stay in the shallow end. Surprisingly, in my view, National came out suggesting that the Government shouldn’t be supporting the commercial sector. Leader Christopher Luxon told me that “too much of the new

Beauty in land and sky IT HAD been a little while since I’d had time off farm so as I drove through the mighty Manawatū last week I was looking forward to a couple of days at a small conference based in Whanganui. It was the annual Coopworth conference and my good mate John Wilkie had done the organising. I don’t believe I’ve ever stayed in Whanganui before having only passed through. Our accommodation was a good old-fashioned pub the like of which are fast disappearing from the landscape. This one had carelessly lost its liquor licence, so we gazed forlornly at the bar devoid of booze and customers. However, it was right across the road from the Ward Telescope and although our first early morning’s opportunity was rained out we all trooped across the road at 5.30am the next morning to see this historic marvel. It sits on a hill overlooking Cooks Gardens where Peter Snell famously broke the mile record in 1962, sixty years ago. The telescope itself was crafted in England in 1859 and bought second hand for the observatory,

which was built in 1903. It is a beautiful piece of scientific equipment and is a 9 1/2 inch refractor. We were here to peer at the wonderful line-up of planets in the early morning sky. Jupiter with its four Galilean moons, bright and inhospitable Venus, ruddy red Mars and Saturn showing off its rings.

The two days reemphasised to all of us what an impressive range of properties and businesses as well as a wonderful array of characters we all have tucked away throughout rural New Zealand. It was wonderful. Our astronomer host Ross is a local pig farmer and a great enthusiast of the heavens above us. Our first farm visit had us looking at impressive sheep and maize crops, but the Matthews

family have been growing roses for the commercial sale of the rose plants for 75 years and the long lines of still blooming rose bushes being harvested were lovely to see. In a shed, we watched staff pruning and trussing up the harvested bare rooted plants ready for distribution all around the country. We went to John’s farm beside the Whangaehu River, which runs from the crater lake on Ruapehu to the sea south of Whanganui and was the river that caused the Tangiwai rail disaster that cost 151 people their lives. He remembers walking the river with his father checking for bodies. He’s gone and bought his own handheld methane reader and is recording his sheep’s methane outputs and culling the worst. Now there’s commitment to countering global warming. Another stop was at Denis Hocking’s excellent demonstration of incorporating well-managed forestry plantings onto a sheep and beef farm. His trees are all on the large sand dunes that run parallel with the farming operation in the valleys between the dunes. The dunes are no good for

farming but are growing good trees. Farm forestry at its very best. Right trees in the right place. Visits to more conventional and very well-run farming operations at the Sherriff’s Pine Park and Cranstone’s Riverton Herefords showed what excellent management can achieve as their stock and land looked in great nick. We went to one of John’s client’s property miles from anywhere. David had spent a whole highflying career biding his time to achieve his lifelong goal of owning and farming a farm. He was doing a great job at it, but it was his enthusiasm for his new career and our industry which was a good kick in the pants for me who had been going for 35 years longer and starting to find my enthusiasm flagging. Paloma Gardens was tucked away on Clive and Nicki Higgie’s farm and was an extraordinarily eccentric and diverse range of all sorts of species planted at scale. I’d never seen anything like it with sculptures and structures scattered throughout. On top of this was a building with forty odd antique restored

spending will go to corporate welfare and more working groups”. He must have had a different document to me. Act labelled the ERP a “bonanza for bureaucrats and travesty for taxpayers”. I saw things differently. What pleased me most about the announcement was the support shown by Government to the primary sector. ‘ The sooner tools are ready for farmers the sooner we move on our goal of biogenic methane reduction of 10% by 2030 and 24 -47% by 2050 was one of the statements made by Minister O’Connor. He added “our economic security depends on New Zealand’s food and fibre sector”. It does.

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

From the Ridge

Steve Wyn-Harris

motorbikes in all their glory. You need to see it to believe it. One of our dinners was at the local high school prepared by John’s sister. I assumed it was going to be basic fare, but it turned out to far exceed expectations. Marilyn and her family presented us with a genuine Peruvian banquet as it turned out she was a Spanish teacher. Then she gave us a fantastic talk about Cuba and the evolution and politics of its rum industry. The two days reemphasised to all of us what an impressive range of properties and businesses as well as a wonderful array of characters we all have tucked away throughout rural New Zealand. We are fortunate.

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 – May 23, 2022

Anzco rounds out good year Meaty Matters

Allan Barber

ANZCO’S best ever financial year signals the healthy state of the meat industry’s processing and export sector, as well as confirming the benefit of the company’s restructure under 100% Japanese ownership. Its result comes on the back of Silver Fern Farms’ record after tax profit for the 2021 year and Alliance’s less profitable, but still solid, result for the 12 months ended September. On a smaller scale Blue Sky Pastures reported a 20% higher profit than in 2020, while privately owned companies including Affco, Greenlea, Universal, Ovation and Wilson Hellaby are believed to have performed even better than those that are required to publish their results. In spite of many covid-related logistical challenges, the red meat sector as a whole has been able to increase profitability while passing historically high market returns back to farmers and reinvesting in capital improvements to systems, products and market initiatives. Provided farmers are being paid a fair price for their livestock, which the current all-time high schedules suggest they are, no one should resent the processing sector’s success in converting its margins into a more acceptable return on capital, enabling reinvestment in business improvements. The companies’ ability and readiness to invest profits for the overall benefit of the sector’s

efficiency and product innovation is apparent from the annual reports. SFF’s annual profit after tax was $103.8 million with its equity ratio rising to 66% and finance costs below $3m, which emphasises the major benefit to debt reduction of the Shanghai Maling investment. Revenue for 2021 was 10.2% higher than the year before, while cost control helped pre-tax profit to rise by 59%. Receivables and inventories were both much higher than in 2020, which indicates the very favourable trading conditions and volumes processed during the final quarter of the year. SFF reported investment of $60m on several projects including the consumer launch of its Honest Burger range and venison ‘brick’ that became the best-selling venison item in the United States. Construction of the Pacific marshalling floor will enable expansion of high value beef programmes and the installation of pumps at Belfast and Finegand to reduce coal use. By comparison Alliance suffered from its earlier balance date that means it must wait until this year to enjoy any of the benefits from the very profitable fourth quarter. The co-operative’s profit after tax and shareholder distributions was $23.8m with an equity ratio of 53%, although chair Murray Taggart told me the year’s logistical challenges prevented this being back over 60%. The SFF and Anzco results for the calendar year confirm this to be a reasonable assumption. In contrast to its southern neighbour Alliance’s finance costs were more than three times higher to fund a balance sheet only two thirds the size, reflecting their different ownership structures. Alliance also made capital

USE IT ALL: Anzco chief executive Peter Conley emphasised the company’s clear strategy to derive more value from the livestock processed.

investments of $60m, much of it on the rollout of its Enterprise Resource Planning system to support transformation of the way the business is run to achieve greater operational efficiency. The co-operative’s manufacturing excellence programme has enabled it to identify the appropriate plant loadings for optimal processing performance, in particular reducing Lorneville’s operating costs which, even when full, had previously been Alliance’s highest cost plant. The co-operative claims to be the “only New Zealand company truly differentiating red meat across beef and lamb”, although I imagine more than one competitor might demur.

NEW IN STORE: SFF reported investment of $60m on several projects including the consumer launch of its Honest Burger range and venison ‘brick’ that became the best-selling venison item in the United States.

In spite of many covid-related logistical challenges, the red meat sector as a whole has been able to increase profitability while passing historically high market returns back to farmers and reinvesting in capital improvements to systems, products and market initiatives.

Alliance highlights its Handpicked programme that rewards farmers for supplying quality livestock to meet the needs of discerning consumers, as well as the development of a premium Angus brand to target market growth in North America and Asia and the introduction of Silere lamb to Tesco in the UK. Anzco’s record profit of $75m before tax was testament to the improvements made as a result of a renewed focus on its core business and increased investment in business systems and data analysis to ensure good decision making. This strategy has produced progressively more profitable results during the past three years. Chief executive Peter Conley highlighted Anzco’s continued focus on consumer needs and customer relationships in addition to a “focus on revenue, yields, and value add performance (which) has enabled the payment of consistently high farm-gate returns”. Conley also emphasised the company’s clear strategy to derive more value from the livestock processed. The recent purchase of Australian healthcare business

Moregate Biotech, which was founded 45 years ago, will assist this strategy from 2022 on because it provides a fully performing platform in the low volume, high margin biological industry, which is by its very nature a long-term investment. One shadow over Anzco’s future performance is the uncertainty concerning the Ministry for Primary Industries’ plans for depopulating the Five Star Feedlot in Mid Canterbury. This will entail the removal of 40,000 prime beef cattle that are currently finished on grain over a three month period and sent direct to slaughter at the neighbouring Seafield plant. The New Zealand Lamb Company in Canada and the United States performed well last year after a very difficult 2020 when covid virtually wiped out its restaurant trade and it was left with high-priced inventory that had to be diverted at short notice. The improved result showed up in substantially better profit contributions to all three shareholders, SFF, Alliance and Anzco. The shareholders have committed to investing in three processing sites on the USA’s East and West Coasts and in Canada to further process into customer ready product formats. The combined pre-tax profits to September 30, or December 31 of those companies that publish an annual result, amounted to $250m with the probability of a similar amount attributable to the other privately owned processors. It was a year when farmers also shared in the industry’s prosperity. There are clouds on the horizon, but the red meat sector is well placed to weather the storm.

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

Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

What’s the future for sheep? The Braided Trail

Keith Woodford

THE sheep industry in Zealand has been getting smaller since 1982 when sheep numbers reached 70 million. The latest numbers are 26m in 2021, having dropped from 32.6m in 2010. Yet sheep still earn more than $4 billion of annual export income. In recent months I have had plenty to say about both greenhouse gas policy and forestry as they are affecting and will affect all New Zealand agriculture. Here, I focus specifically on sheep farming to seek answers as to where the industry might head. Focusing first on market returns, the past two decades have brought lots of good news. Lamb and mutton prices have risen faster than other pastoral products, including dairy, and at a considerably higher rate than general inflation. Yet somehow it has not been enough to stem the decline. The key factors driving the decline have changed over time. Initially, it was the huge rural decline of the 1980s and the removal of the distorting subsidies of the Muldoon Government. Quite simply, those Muldoon policies, with payments for each extra animal carried, led to skinny underperforming sheep. During the 1990s, the key driver was the march of pine trees across the North Island, but that stopped in about 1998 with declining timber prices. Then there was the dairy boom, already under way in the late 1990s, and then continuing through to the middle of the last decade. Availability of irrigation together with new irrigation technologies were very important in Canterbury. Further south it was a diverse range of technologies that drove change. Despite lamb prices being good, wool prices were terrible and the call of dairying was very strong. Right now, those forces have changed again. There is zero conversion now occurring of sheep land to dairy, owing in large part to new regulations. However, the call of forestry is once again strong. Also, there is great concern about greenhouse gas levies, mainly methane but also nitrous oxide. The forestry situation is complex and some might say crazy. As I write this, the Government is giving serious consideration to pulling so-called permanent pine forests from the Emission Trading Scheme. If this happens, all new pine

BEST IN SHOW: Keith Woodford says one of the remarkable things about New Zealand sheep farming systems is that huge efficiencies have been made in relation to methane emissions.

forests will be for short-cycle production forests, typically of 28 years or in some cases a few more years. The irony is that this will encourage tree planting on the softer country that is easier to harvest and with a preference for land that is well-located relative to ports. Yet it is on hard erosion-prone hard hill country, far from ports, where land should be going into long-term pine forests. Assuming that the Government sticks to its latest proposals, pine production forests will stay within the ETS, but with carbon credits limited to the first 16 years. Depending on location, these credits will, at current carbon prices, be worth about $30,000 per hectare on most North Island farms but less in most parts of the South Island. That is enough to blow sheep farming away on most of the better sheep farming land. Of course, if the price of carbon rises much higher as the Government has said it wants to happen, then these returns will further increase. But it’s a game where the Government sets the rules and those rules can change. The greenhouse gas story is also complex. A typical sheep emits about 12kg of methane per annum, which may not sound much. It only stays in the atmosphere for about 12 years, but while it is there it does have a big effect. One of the remarkable things about New Zealand sheep farming systems is that huge efficiencies have been made in relation to methane emissions. The emissions are in direct proportion to the amount of feed eaten. Remarkable improvements in productivity mean that a much greater proportion of the feed is now used to generate production,

rather than simply maintaining bodyweight. This change has largely been driven by higher twinning rates and much higher lamb carcass weights. According to industry body Beef+Lamb, each kilogram of lamb meat is now associated with 31% fewer emissions than was the situation 30 years ago. There has been very little publicity about this.

Let there be no doubt, sheep farming is the pastoral industry most at risk from misguided greenhouse gas taxes. Linked to these changes, the invisible atmospheric cloud of methane sourced from New Zealand sheep has actually been declining, with the methane historically emitted by sheep now leaving the atmosphere faster than new sheep-sourced methane is entering the atmosphere. The counter-balancing fact is that each newly emitted molecule of methane still causes warming that would not occur if it were not emitted. Accordingly, methane emissions from sheep cannot be simply ignored. We do need to continue the search for further reductions in emissions per unit of meat. As I have said many times, nothing is simple when it comes to agriculture’s effects on climate. And anyone who thinks the issues are simple does not understand the problem. Currently, sheep farmers are nervous about what will come out of the current debate about whether agriculture will enter the ETS or whether the Government

will accept the alternative proposals about to be submitted to Government by He Waka Eke Noa. Many farmers don’t like either option. I have written elsewhere about those issues and so I won’t repeat that here. But those issues aren’t going away. What I will say here is that if agriculture does go into the ETS based on the greatly flawed concept of CO2 equivalence, then by the mid-2030s the sheep industry could well have been destroyed. We need to think carefully about that. Let there be no doubt, sheep farming is the pastoral industry most at risk from misguided greenhouse gas taxes. The first to be destroyed will not be dairy; it will be sheep. Somehow there has to be a reworking of basic thinking, The aim has to be to focus not on a methane tax that will destroy sheep faming, but on the funding of a methane levy to be invested in future development of emission efficiencies. If hill-country sheep farming is destroyed, then it is a real puzzle as to what the hill country will be used for. It won’t be beef cattle because they face the same or even more environmental constraints as sheep. It won’t be dairy because, among the other factors, the topography is unsuitable. It certainly won’t be cropping. Will it be pine forests? Returning to the markets, the long-term future for lamb looks particularly strong. New Zealand and Australia are the only big international traders. Sheep meat is highly regarded spanning a broad arc of countries from the Middle East across much

of central Asia and through to western and northern China. All of those countries are constrained by their own ability to increase production. If it was a simple case of aligning the supply of sheepmeats with all of the potential consumers, without politics getting in the way, then it would indeed be simple. One of the big challenges right now is that New Zealand’s urban population does not understand how agri-food systems, from consumers right back to inputs on the farm, are what underpins the New Zealand economy. It is not just about what happens on the farm, but what happens along a value chain leading back from consumers through marketers, processors and farmers to the suppliers of fam inputs. As I have said many times, New Zealand has an export-led economy. Without exports we have no money for imports. More than 80% of merchandise exports come from primary industries, with no obvious alternatives. Currently, New Zealand is running big deficits on its external current account of about $20b per annum. It must be balanced by incoming capital. That is not sustainable. Either exports have to increase or imports have to decline. Given that situation, getting rid of the sheep industry does not seem to be the right way to go.

Your View Keith Woodford was Professor of Farm Management and Agribusiness at Lincoln University for 15 years through to 2015. He is now Principal Consultant at AgriFood Systems Ltd. He can be contacted at kbwoodford@ gmail.com Previous articles can be found at https://keithwoodford. wordpress.com

World

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Vegetable growers eye a switch to arable crops

UK growers have had enough of the hassle and the insecurity and many have decided it is not worth the risk. Jack Ward British Growers Association

Scotland’s Horticulture Working Group, likened the problems facing the fruit market to ‘going into a car crash’. According to Home Office figures, two-thirds of the UK’s Seasonal Worker visas issued last year went to Ukrainian workers, with Russia providing the second largest contingent. Growers are now relying on inexperienced workers from Bulgaria and Romania to fill the gap. But the uncertainty surrounding the future of the labour market has left many in the sector questioning whether it is worth carrying on or switching to safer crops, such as cereals. Ward said they had been telling the Government this for months. “UK growers have had enough of the hassle and the insecurity and many have decided it is not worth the risk. We are eroding people’s confidence in the UK’s fresh produce, which is ridiculous when it is an area where we seriously underproduce and one

PIVOT? The uncertainty surrounding the future of the labour market has left many in the sector questioning whether it is worth carrying on or switching to safer crops, such as cereals.

which could not be more needed.” Margaret Seddon is director of Seddon and Sons in Ormskirk, Lancashire, which has been growing leeks for five generations. She said many of her neighbours in the historic market garden area have considered closing their businesses in the face of such instability. Her workforce has been seriously depleted after several Ukrainians had to return home in a bid to rescue family members trapped by the conflict. “There has been such an issue with passports and visas that they have not been able to get back here. One of our couples is now in Cyprus as accommodation was offered there first, even though they had been working on our farm and had a home here.” Seddon, who has offered

asking people to do and it makes sponsorship for the family no sense.” members under the Homes for The Home Office said there Ukraine scheme, said the situation were a number of schemes is desperate for those waiting for open to Ukrainians, including news and is calling on the UK the Seasonal Worker Visa and Government to reassess its policy the Ukraine Extension Scheme. concerning minors and speed up Families of Ukrainians caught the complex visa process. up in the conflict can apply to “People are dying while we are come to the UK via the Ukraine box ticking.” Sponsorship Scheme. Ward said farming relies on UK Farmers Guardian certainty. “Why would people spend thousands planting crops if they cannot be absolutely certain that you had people to harvest them? AWDT Next Level 2022 “Why would Food & fibre women – are you ready to lead you do it? But that change for the people and places you care is what we are

Fears UK sidelined in fertiliser discussion FEARS that United Kingdeom farmers have once again been sidelined have grown following the announcement of a new partnership between the European Union and the United States to tackle global food security and supply issues. The plans form the basis of the trade and technology council, which has been launched by the two trading blocs to strengthen economic ties and address vital farming issues arising from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Valdis Dombrovskis, the EU’s trade commissioner, told reporters ahead of discussions in Paris that there was clearly a need for “major players” in the global economy to work together to solve critical issues. One of the key areas being worked on is the availability of fertiliser. Dombrovskis said the forum would seek to address the disruption caused by a lack of exports from Russia and Belarus, while developing strategies for diversifying the supply. NFU deputy president

STEP UP: President Aled Jones says NFU Cymru wants Governments in London and Cardiff to recognise that the continued supply of affordable, high-quality, domesticallyproduced food is a strategic national priority.

Tom Bradshaw said “fertiliser is absolutely crucial in farmers delivering global and domestic food security and moving forward it is essential there is diversity of supply and transparency in the market”. While it is not yet clear whether the UK – which is currently seeking to secure a trade deal with the US – was invited to be part of the new partnership, it too has

launched plans to tackle the fertiliser problem, which is now costing around £775-790 a tonne. Writing for the Government’s weekly blog, Leah Coyle, who is part of the fertiliser team, announced the establishment of a fertiliser taskforce. The first piece of advice to emerge from its initial meeting, chaired by farming

minister Victoria Prentis, directed farmers to adjust fertiliser application rates to reduce costs. The move came as farm groups called on Government to deliver a comprehensive food strategy. The demand followed a stark warning from the governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey, who said apocalyptic food price rises were on their way. Tenant Farmers Association chief executive George Dunn said it was now down to Westminster to take action to ensure food security. “The current crisis indicates that we can delay this process no longer,” he said. His sentiments were echoed by NFU Cymru president Aled Jones, who said “Mr Bailey’s comments made for some quite sobering reading”. NFU Cymru wants Governments in London and Cardiff to recognise that the continued supply of affordable, high-quality, domestically-produced food is a strategic national priority.”

Agrievents

about? To step-up and make change happen, join our friends @AgriWomensDevelopmentTrust on Next Level - a six-month leadership and governance programme for developing the confidence, skills and connections to inspire others. Connect with your cohort of aspiring food & fibre leaders, grow through individual executive coaching, build a leader mindset and set your action plan to make change happen. Learn more and register at www.awdt.org.nz/ next-level/ Next Level will run in: Wairarapa 27, 28, 29 September Online 28, 29 July and 19, 20 October Christchurch 7, 8, 9 June and 1, 2, 3 November

Change happens. Are you ready for it? Just launched by our friends @ AgriWomensDevelopmentTrust, ‘Know your Mindset. Do what Matters’ is a short, practical training programme on managing multiple pressures, calmly and clearly. Designed specifically for rural people, it’s about learning to press pause under stress, focus on what matters most and take positive action in your life. If you’re looking for the tools, skills and connections to navigate change, register at https://www.awdt.org.nz/programmes/knowyour-mindset-do-what-matters/ Should your event be listed here? Phone 0800 85 25 80 or email adcopy@globalhq.co.nz

LK0109662©

A GROWING number of fruit and vegetable growers are considering exiting the horticulture sector as acute labour shortages and the ongoing economic crisis continue to bite. Aside from the clear human tragedy, the war in Ukraine has had a devastating impact on the availability of seasonal workers to harvest this year’s crop, a situation that Jack Ward, chief executive of the British Growers Association, said was “becoming desperate”. Iain Brown, chair of NFU

FINAL NOTICE

Pehiri 1276 Pehiri Road

Sun Peaks Station: a well-balanced 734 hectares

737.0426ha

Sun Peaks Station is 734ha of balanced contour, located 46km inland from Gisborne City, in the thriving Pehiri community. Set in an appealing farming climate, Sun Peaks enjoys mild winters and largely good growing conditions throughout summer. Investment into the farm in recent years, is emphasised through new fencing and the addition of an extensive stock water reticulation system, which is complemented by excellent natural water across the farm. The farm aspect provides excellent sheltered breeding conditions. Easy contour at the front of the farm is utilised for summer crops and high-performance pastures, with circa 100ha easy contour bull unit at the back.

Tender (will not be sold prior) Closing 4pm, Wed 22 Jun 2022 10 Reads Quay, Gisborne View by appointment Simon Bousfield 027 665 8778 simon.bousfield@bayleys.co.nz Stephen Thomson 027 450 6531 stephen.thomson@bayleys.co.nz

An opportunity to acquire appealing scale, balanced contour in a well-regarded location!

bayleys.co.nz/2752583

BOUSFIELD MACPHERSON LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

NEW LISTING

Tahunga 2689 Pehiri Road

Ngatimita - high performing hill country

566.047ha

Ngatimita Station, located at Tahunga and only 59km from Gisborne, will capture your attention immediately, with the picturesque Hangaroa River welcoming you upon your arrival to the property. Wintering circa 5,600 stock units, the warm northerly aspect of the property allows for winter grass growth ensuring live weight gains, are achieved year-round. The attractive four-bedroom homestead is surrounded by mature trees, with the river creating a peaceful ambience for relaxing on the large deck. Ngatimita Station is well watered and has maintenance plus capital fertiliser inputs, on average of 430kg/ha annually for the past three years, complemented by an annual rainfall of 1,300mm to 1,400mm.

Tender (will not be sold prior) Closing 4pm, Thu 30 Jun 2022 10 Reads Quay, Gisborne View by appointment Stephen Thomson 027 450 6531 stephen.thomson@bayleys.co.nz Simon Bousfield 027 665 8778 simon.bousfield@bayleys.co.nz

Ngatimita - a strong, honest performing hill country farm in a close-knit farming community.

bayleys.co.nz/2752597

bayleys.co.nz

BOUSFIELD MACPHERSON LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

NEW LISTING

Boundary lines are indicative only

Central Hawke's Bay 1254 Tikokino Road, Waipawa

Work from home? Quality 126ha deer/cropping farm

126.9701ha

This luxurious home and small farm would be perfect for a professional couple working from home. Located only 13 kilometres west of Waipawa, this flat farm boasts excellent silt loam soils, reticulated water, approximately 32 hectares of deer fencing, numerous implement and deer sheds and a fully refurbished, three bedroom villa. The quality of the workmanship on the beautiful character villa from the new kitchen, open plan living area to the ensuite and walk-in wardrobe off the generous master bedroom, and the native floorboards, combine beautifully with a modern finishing. The perfect country hideaway with easy care farming options in the one package.

Auction (unless sold prior) 12pm, Fri 17 Jun 2022 17 Napier Road, Havelock North View 1-1.45pm Tue 24 May or by appointment Tony Rasmussen 027 429 2253 tony.rasmussen@bayleys.co.nz Andy Hunter 027 449 5827 andy.hunter@bayleys.co.nz

bayleys.co.nz/2852969

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

NEW LISTING

Masterton 816 Mangamahoe Central Road

North Canterbury 152 Stonyflat Road, Loburn

The opportunity

Exceptional opportunity

Scale and scope in a predominantly summer safe environment. 834.5838ha of medium hill country situated 30 minutes from Masterton. The vendors have grown this property over 40 years by accumulating four farms, creating a very workable unit. Two main woolsheds, both with covered yards, service opposite halves of the property. The bulk of the farm is located in two main basins which feed down naturally to the stock facilities with laneways. A traditional sheep and beef breeding property running 3,500 ewes lambing at 130%, plus breeding cows. 12ha block of pines pre 1990, next to the road for easy extraction is included. Rare opportunity to purchase a substantial breeding property well located in the Wairarapa/Tararua district.

bayleys.co.nz/3151100

834ha Tender (will not be sold prior) Closing 4pm, Thu 9 Jun 2022 186 Chapel Street, Masterton View by appointment Lindsay Watts 027 246 2542 lindsay.watts@bayleys.co.nz Andrew Smith 027 760 8208 Simon Clinton-Baker 021 953 909 EASTERN REALTY (WAIRARAPA) LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Keep your eyes on the future with this exciting opportunity to purchase a stunning farm and homestead. At 101.0031 hectares (more or less), a unique development opportunity exists to subdivide into 20 separate lifestyle properties with consents in place. Whether your choice is to farm the property or carve off a smaller block and develop the rest, you’ll enjoy the superb comfort of the home designed with style, space and comfort in mind. Built in 2017 and positioned in an elevated site, the home boasts a tranquil outlook to the hills beyond. Currently utilised for dairy support and fattening cattle, outbuildings include a new three-bay shed, two three-bay haysheds and cattle yards. Attractive to commuters with Christchurch only 40 minutes away.

101ha

Deadline Sale (unless sold prior) 12pm, Wed 8 Jun 2022 3 Deans Avenue, Christchurch Phone for viewing times Ben Turner 027 530 1400 ben.turner@bayleys.co.nz Peter Foley 021 754 737 peter.foley@bayleys.co.nz WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/5518077

bayleys.co.nz

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – May 23, 2022

Accelerating success.

New Listing

270 Waimahora Road, Otorohanga Opportunity Abounds!

For Sale By Deadline Private Treaty closing Thurs 16 June 2022 at 4pm (unless sold prior) 270 Waimahora Road. Otorohanga

Clint Brereton 027 897 1161 Chris Meban 027 484 4574

209 Ha Dairy Support Cropping Balanced Contour Located in the sought-after South Waikato farming district of Otorohanga, is this 209ha Dairy Support property. The property has a good balance of contours, with approximately 40ha of river flats, 12ha cropped in maize each summer, the balance in rolling to some steeper grazing. Running 450 head of cattle year round plus 200 mixed age cows for eight weeks.

colliers.co.nz/p-NZL67018994

CRTGA Limited Licensed under the REAA 2008

colliers.co.nz

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – May 23, 2022

FOR SALE

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

NEW ZEALAND REDWOOD COMPANY (NZRC) ESTATE

PREMIUM LUMBER AND CARBON OPPORTUNITY

Carbon

Freehold Land Area 8,108ha

108,000t* p.a. at 2033

Net Stocked Area

Ruapehu, Rangitikei & Hurunui Districts

Four Forests

3,166ha

Farm Land to plant

Woodflow

525ha

200,000m3**/p.a. from 2047

Deadline Offers:

Thursday 9 June 2022 at 4pm (NZST) Jeremy Keating Wyatt Johnston Chan Singh Gerrard Wilson

+64 21 461 210 +64 27 815 1303 +64 27 767 7113 +64 21 537 245

*Forecast carbon sequestration on current FMA tables. **Forecast woodflow based on lumber scenario. Arotahi Agribusiness Limited, Licensed Real Estate Agent REA Act

Together Stronger Our combined strengths complement each other, creating more opportunity for our customers and Farmlands shareholders across provincial New Zealand. • • • •

A nationwide network from Northland to Southland Sound, trustworthy advice from market-leading experts Shareholder benefits and preferential commission rates means more money in your pocket

Bigger networks, more buyers, better results For more information call 0800 367 5263 or visit pb.co.nz/together Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 PB053815

Okota Forest - Rangitikei District

classifieds@globalhq.co.nz

Primary Pathways – Jobs, Education & Training

FARMERS WEEKLY – May 23, 2022

Head Shepherd Working with Farmers for Farmers

KELLY LAND COMPANY

An Exciting Opportunity

An opportunity has become available for a capable head shepherd on a 2200ha, 21,000su sheep and beef property. 50km east of Taihape on Napier -Taihape Road.

LIVESTOCK SPECIALIST

– CANTERBURY AND OTAGO

Shepherd

This is your opportunity to join an experienced 100% NZ owned and

Waitatapia Station is a diverse farming business located in the lower Rangitikei, 10 minutes from Bulls. The farm specialises in finishing lambs and steers, growing cash crops plus providing large scale wintering pad facilities.

operated Livestock Company. NZ Farmers Livestock are leaders in their industry, operating across New Zealand. We define ourselves on the strength of our expertise and commitment to working with farmers for farmers. Integrity, innovation and that commitment to supporting farmers in the market are our core offering. Beyond

A 3-bedroom house is available.

established saleyard and paddock activity, we continue positioning LK0111826©

For further information contact: The manager Stephen Ponsonby - phone: 06 388 0017 or email: blackhill@motukawaland.co.nz

The successful applicant will join a team working on the stock side of the farm which will include moving mobs of stock and all activities associated with sheep and cattle farming using modern facilities and equipment for handling stock.

ourselves as the leader in the livestock trading online space, with the successful and ever developing MyLiveStock Website and MyLiveStock App. NZ Farmers Livestock are currently seeking farming and sales experienced individuals to join our Livestock Specialist team in either

Experienced Production Manager – Rangitikei

Canterbury or Otago.

A BIT ABOUT TE HOU FARMS LIMITED… Te Hou Farms Limited is a large-scale farming operation, located 15km west of Bulls, in the Rangitikei region. Formerly ‘Flock House Farms’ they are milking 1100 cows at peak. The property is made up of 1224ha which includes a 400ha irrigated dairy unit and the balance is utilised for cropping and drystock.

THE OPPORTUNITY… Te Hou Farms is looking for an Experienced Production Manager, who has a proven track record and outstanding ability in management. The Production Manager will report directly to the Operations Manager, who will be present and available to offer support and guidance when needed.

Supportive team environment

•

Immediate start

•

Unique opportunity for a change of career direction

•

Medical & Life Insurance

A warm 3-bedroom home is available on the farm for the successful applicant with good local primary and secondary schools available. The successful applicant will require 3-4 good working dogs with a minimum of 2 years’ stock experience.

•

Energy & Vitality

•

Sales experience

•

Extensive livestock/farming knowledge

•

Superior relationship building and communication skills

•

Ability to work in an autonomous manner

•

High levels of drive and self-motivation

•

Computer literate

JW111717©

Please apply with references to office@waitatapia.co.nz – For further information or interest please contact Roger on 027 453 2400. Applications close 3rd June 2022

www.waitatapia.co.nz

All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence Applications close Friday, 3rd June 2022 Contact or email either: Bill Sweeney 027 451 5310 bill.sweeney@nzfll.co.nz or Regan Laughton 027 440 6722 regan.laughton@nzfll.co.nz

The appointee will be responsible for the effective operation of all aspects of the milking process, including plant hygiene, feed management, animal health and ensuring record management and compliance is adhered to through recording and reporting, and also to ensure optimal health is maintained.

TIROA E TRUST

A BIT ABOUT YOU…

Tiroa Station

JOBS BOARD

This role requires a strong planner with relevant experience and a passion for the industry. The successful appointee will come with the following: • A minimum of 3-4 seasons dairy farming experience with management experience (or 2IC) in large-scale dairy farming preferred • An understanding of the importance of feeding cows well and demonstrated pasture management skills • Understanding and confidence in all aspects of animal health – lame cows included • Staff management – you will be the team leader if/when the Manager is away • Animal husbandry skills, with a genuine care towards animals • High level understanding of Health & Safety policies and procedures.

Tiroa Station is a 3200ha effective property situated near Benneydale, 35 minutes from Te Kuiti and part of the Tiroa Te Hape group

farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz

of farms covering 7500ha effective.

The

station winters 32,000 stock units made up of

Apprentice Farm Manager

a high performing breeding ewe flock and

Career Opportunities

breeding cow herd.

SHEPHERD

Farm Manager

The successful applicant would require 2-3

Fencer General

The Production Manager role comes with an excellent remuneration package including a modern, newly renovated, four-bedroom home, with a log fire and heat pump. You will be in a great rural community, with the Marton Young Farmers club nearby and ample hunting, and fishing right on your doorstep, as the farm backs on to Rangitikei River. There is a school bus from the gate to local primary and secondary schools.

good working dogs, have a broad skill base

Field Agronomist

and have had experience with finishing

Livestock Co-Ordination Manager

excellent stockmanship, an eye for detail,

both lambs and cattle. You will need to have clear written and oral communication, be

Livestock Specialist

able to take responsibility, have a ‘can do’

Operations Manager

attitude, be able to adhere to farm Health & Safety policies, and be able to work both

Regional Cattle Manager

independently and in a team environment.

Senior Reporter

Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to join the Te Hou Farms team!

LK0111818©

FURTHER INFORMATION:

This

with

competitive

Surfing For Farmers - National Coordinator

good housing. Applicants for this position should have NZ

Tractor/Truck/Machinery Operator

residency or a valid NZ work visa and will be required to have a clear pre-employment

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

drug test. For further information please contact

Contact Debbie Brown 06 323 0765 or email classifieds@globalhq.co.nz LK0105354©

comes

remuneration, a great work environment and

*conditions apply

RECRUITMENT & HR

position

Shepherd

Wayne Fraser 07 874815, or email your CV to camilla@tiroatehape.maori.nz Applications close Friday 3rd June 2022

LK0111764©

ON OFFER…

Applications will be reviewed as they are received

Competitive remuneration package

•

Key skills and attributes the successful candidate should have are:

Te Hou Farms are constantly making improvements, this year building a new fully automated, 80 bail rotary shed in September, this will be ready for the 2023 season.

For more information or to apply please visit https://bit.ly/3LpBToZ or give the Rural Directions team a call on 06 871 0450 for a confidential chat (Ref# 878139).

•

LK0111528©

Requirements: • Experienced stockman • Good team of dogs • Own saddlery • Well organised and able to work unsupervised • Sound knowledge of hill country farming

Noticeboard LEASE AVAILABLE

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

12 MONTHS TO 5½-yearold Heading dogs and Huntaways wanted. Phone 022 698 8195. BUYING ALL LEVELS of working dogs NZ wide since 2012. mikehughesworkingdogs@ farmside.co.nz 07 315 5553.

SHEEP FARMING LEASE. 210 Hectares, (1-3 Year Lease from 1st July) 2.53k SU. Hawke’s Bay, good facilities, summer safe. Mobile 021 327 637.

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

ATTENTION FARMERS

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

FOR SALE Early Winter Special www.thesocklady.co.nz

40c/50c PER KG dags fadges/bales. Replacement woolpacks. PV Weber Wools. Kawakawa Road, Feilding. Phone 06 323 9550.

WORD ONLY ADVERTISING. Phone Debbie on 0800 85 25 80.

DOGS FOR SALE

PROMOTES QUICK PASTURE growth. Only $6.50+gst per hectare delivered. 0508-GIBBGRO [0508 442 247] www. gibbgro.co.nz. “The Proven One.”

BOOK AN AD. For only $2.10 + gst per word you can book a word only ad in Farmers Weekly Classifieds section. Phone Debbie on 0800 85 25 80 to book in or email wordads@ globalhq.co.nz

Selling something? Call Debbie 0800 85 25 80

AUTUMN CALVING lease bulls available. BVD. TB tested. Competitive rates. Freight paid. Phone 027 739 9939.

LIVESTOCK FOR SALE RED DEVON BULLS. Well grown, purebred. Feilding. Phone 027 224 3838.

PERSONAL One pair of FREE cotton socks per pack

20-MONTH Heading dog, nice style, good distance and command. 6-MONTH Heading bitch,started, strong eye, very stylish. Phone 021 022 41610. 4-YEAR-OLD brokenin Huntaway dog. TWO (10-12 month), Huntaway b&t dogs, good barks. GRIZZLY yard mob and small paddock dog. Phone 027 243 8541. 8-WEEK-OLD Heading pups, five bitches, well bred, tri-colour. Phone 027 241 6433. HUGE SELECTION WORKING dogs. Deliver NZ wide, trial, guaranteed! www.youtube.com/user/ mikehughesworkingdog/ videos 07 315 5553.

LEASE BULLS

GIBB-GRO GROWTH PROMOTANT

GOATS WANTED

FERAL GOATS WANTED. All head counted, payment on pick-up, pick-up within 24 hours. Prices based on works schedule. Experienced musterers available. Phone Bill and Vicky Le Feuvre 07 893 8916. GOATS WANTED. All weights. All breeds. Prompt service. Payment on pick up. My on farm prices will not be beaten. Phone David Hutchings 07 895 8845 or 0274 519 249. Feral goats mustered on a 50/50 share basis.

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

Introducing Louise Alone & Seeking Love. Louise is a slim petite lady with blonde silky hair and blue eyes. A country girl who enjoys tramping, swimming, ﬁshing, the beach and loves animals. Tired of being alone Louise is looking for a gentleman with similar interests. LK0111796©

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

TRACTOR PARTS

Call now for more details. Seniors welcome.

0800 446 332

LEASE PROPERTY WANTED

JOHN DEERE 6620, 6410, 6800, rollover damage,dismantling Andquiparts.Phone 027 524 3356.

Hardworking farming couple looking for sheep/beef lease farm opportunity: South Island

WANTED TO BUY

Good Pasture, animal husbandry skills. 14 years managing Sheep and Beef properties

SAWN SHED TIMBER including Black Maire. Matai, Totara and Rimu etc. Also buying salvaged native logs. Phone Richard Uren. NZ Native Timber Supplies. Phone 027 688 2954.

Experience in leasing property previously References available

Phone Tim 021 640 027

HOUSES FOR REMOVAL. North Island. Phone 021 455 787. WHAT’S SITTING IN your barn? Don’t leave it to rust away! We pay cash for tractors, excavators, small crawler tractors and surplus farm machinery. Ford – Ferguson – Hitachi – Komatsu – John Deere and more. Tell us what you have no matter where it is in NZ. You never know.. what’s resting in your barn could be fattening up your wallet! Email admin@ loaderparts.co.nz or phone Colin on 0274 426 936 (No texts please)

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

CONTROL FLYSTRIKE & LICE Includes • Jetter unit • Pump & hose kit • Delivery to nearest main centre

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

TJ SCRUBCUTTING

76 80 +GS

SUPPLYING FARMERS SINCE 1962

Pests out of control? No job too big, I offer efﬁcient and conﬁdential service. CONTACT: 0275258321

Cost-effective pest control using the latest thermal equipment & technology. I am an experienced hunter and ex farmer, I can get rid of the pests eating down your farm, disturbing your stock, and frustrating you and your neighbors.

0800 436 566

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

LK0111830©

DOGS WANTED

JW110646©

ANIMAL HANDLING

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

Travel further with Farmers Weekly Promote or find your next adventure in our Travel & Tourism section published monthly. Next issue: June 13 Booking deadline: Friday June 3 – 12 noon

Industries Ltd

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

Need HELP regarding DEBT? • Bills keep coming. • You work hard to get on top of it all. • Your borrowings were manageable, yet they keep climbing. We don’t guarantee we will find a solution, but we have helped many farmers get on top of their DEBT. Your honesty with us is important, as only then can we help. Confidentiality is assured.

LK0111804©

FARMERS WEEKLY – May 23, 2022

To get off the tread mill call Manor Consultancy Ltd 027 454 2702 or email barries@xtra.co.nz

THINK PREBUILT

To advertise your travel products and services contact: Debbie 06 323 0765 or email classifieds@globalhq.co.nz

NEEDING SCRUB OR gorse cut? Manawatu. Call us on 022 323 9367 now to book a free quote. tjscrubcutting@gmail.com

MOWER MASTER

KEEP YOUR TEAM NATURALLY WARM THIS WINTER

12HP, diesel, electric start, 50 ton

NZ made canvas woollen dog coats

Heavy duty construction for serious wood splitting. Towable.

NEW HOMES SOLID – PRACTICAL

WELL INSULATED – AFFORDABLE

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

LK0111829©

Supplied flatpack or inquire for assembled pricing

Heavy duty long lasting Ph 021 047 9299

Splitter

$4200

To find out more visit

www.moamaster.co.nz Phone 028 461 5112 Email: mowermasterltd@gmail.com

www.naturalhound.co.nz

10% off when purchasing 2 or more with the discount code FARM

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

JW109922©

LK0109558©

Splitter with hydraulic lifting table $4800

farmersweekly.co.nz/advertising 0800 85 25 80

Tech & Toys

FARMERS WEEKLY – May 23, 2022

MAKE YOUR MOVE ON THESE

MACHINES

Don’t miss out on locking in a premium, hardworking New Holland T6000 tractor to keep your herd moving and producing in 2022. With new machines landing regularly over the months ahead now’s the perfect time to place an order, secure your new T6000 tractor, and take advantage of our great finance offer.

Contact your local Norwood dealership to find out more.

norwood.co.nz 0800 66 79 663

1/ 3

22NWD003a

DEPOSIT

*Promotion ends 30th June 2022, for delivery on or before 31st December 2022. Offer only available on new New Holland tractors. Finance offer is provided by CNH Industrial Capital Australia PTY LTD trading as CNH Industrial New Zealand and is subject to normal lending criteria to approved business applicants. Finance offer is based on 1.99% p.a. finance rate, minimum one third deposit, up to a maximum 36 month term, with GST back in third month, and balance split over 36 monthly principal and interest repayments. Deposit is a percentage of invoice price inclusive of GST. For full terms and conditions of this promotion, please contact your local Norwood dealer or visit norwood.co.nz.

Across the entire New Holland Tractor range 36 month term @ 1.99% per annum*

Livestock Noticeboard

FARMERS WEEKLY – May 23, 2022

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

KAIRURU

For over 80yrs Hingaia bulls have been standing up to the demands of the industry PRELIMINARY NOTICE

POLLED HEREFORDS

COMPLETE DISPERSAL SHORTHORN SALE

SINCE 1979

ON FARM 31ST ANNUAL SALE

HINGAIA OFFER: Proven Genetics Constitution Fertility Longevity Soundness Balanced EBVs

HINGAIA ANGUS

“A balanced breeding programme for all environments”

26th March a In conjunction with BIDR

28 R2YR BULLS 3 R1YR BULLS

KEVIN & JANE Mc McDONALD (REPOROA) 07 333 8068 • 027 451 0640 JEFF & NICOLA McDONALD McDONALD 021 510 351 • kairuruNZ@gmail.com

Annual Bull Sale Wednesday 1st June 2022 147 Hingaia Road, Te Awamutu - 4.00pm

EXPORT WANTED 2021 Born ANGUS HEIFERS

JUNE - 1PM at Kairuru,8 Reporoa (m

JW111579©

LK0111832©

LOCKBURN SHORTHORN STUD Driver Road, Taupiri Monday 20th June 12 Noon VIC R2 Heifers & VIC Mixed Age Cows Details to follow Contact: Brent Bougen 027 210 4698

INSPECTION AND VISITORS ALWAYS WELCOME Richard Jolly 147 Hingaia Road, RD4, Te Awamutu 3874, P: 027 499 7159 Email: jollyrt57@gmail.com Andrew Jolly P: 0272 090 037

August 2022 Delivery $1100 Gross

JW111732©

Contact your local agent or Call North Island Wayne Doran 027 493 8957 Harry Van De Ven 027 486 9866 Luke McBride 027 304 0533 South Island Richard Harley 021 765 430 Burke Patching 027 441 1515

www.hingaiaangus.co.nz

Andy Transom PGG Wrightson Ltd P: 0275 965 142 Brent Bougen NZ Farmers Livestock P: 027 210 4698 Bruce Orr P: 027 4922 122

KIA TOA CHAROLAIS Est. 2003

RIVERLEE

ON-FARM SALE

POLLED HEREFORDS

973 Troopers Road, Te Kuiti 30th May 1.30PM

CUSTOMER: REP ID:

13 in-calf R2yr heifers 13 heifer calves

RANGITATAU TRUST NZC122

PROOF TIME LAST RUN: SIZE:

29/04/2022 1:10:11 PM 05/05/22 18.2X4

Registered Polled Herefords

KEVIN & JANE McDONALD

Sixth Annual Beef Bull Sale

Held On-farm 14th June 2022 @ 1pm OFFERING: 22 R2 BULLS Hill country cattle bred for hill country farmers

35 Bulls On Offer | Homozygous Polled Bulls Available

SELLING AGENTS: CARRFIELDS – Dan Warner M: 027 826 5768 NZ FARMERS – John Watson M: 027 494 1975

LK0111781©

• All cows commercially run & wintered with the ewes • Temperament • Calving Ease • Constitution • Growth

ENQUIRIES & VISITORS WELCOME MURRAY & FIONA CURTIS

Contact Paul 027 209 1959

2354 Rangiwahia Road, RD 54, Kimbolton 4774 P: 06 328 2881 • E: mfcurtis@farmside.co.nz

Kia Toa Charolais

● BVD Tested Clear, BVD and 10 in 1 Vaccinated ● Calving ease, moderate birth weight bulls suitable to mate 1 or 2 year old heifers or cows ● Breedplan Recorded ● TB Status C10 ● Herd completely free of known genetic defects ● Only proven NZ bred bulls used in last 10 years ● Renowned for great temperament ● Three year comprehensive guarantee

Monday 13th June 2022

42ND THURSDAY 9TH JUNE 2022

Livestock Advertising? Call Javier: 0800 85 25 80

Top quality bulls bred for NZ Farmers ●

37th Annual Bull Sale

07 333 8068

16th, 17th & 18th May by appointment All bulls i50k and structurally assessed. BULLS SIRED BY: • Hoover Dam • MF Klooney 2414 • MF Treadstone 2435 • MF Edmund 2136 • Te Mania 17533 • C Capitalist 316 • Storth Oaks L35 • Te Mania 18500

Enquiries and inspection welcome. Contact

Kevin or Megan FRIEL ph: (06) 376 4543 625 Jackson Road, Kumeroa

kev.meg.co@xtra.co.nz

www.mtmableangus.co.nz

Online Bidr available Bidr available

NZ-1180

www.tetaumata.co.nz Livestock Noticeboard

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

free DelIVerY

Waitangi Angus

REGISTERED LIMOUSIN PEDIGREE SALE

POLL HEREFORDS Est. 1962

43rd Annual Poll Hereford Bull Sale

1.00pm on farm at Waitangi 55 BULLS FOR SALE Enquiries and Inspection Welcomed:

Contact John, Joss or Phil Bayly 027 474 3185,

jbayly@xtra.co.nz

Sale Catalogue link: www.waitangiangus.co.nz/upcoming-sales

KIVLEAN LIMOUSINS 2 x R2Yr Limousin Bulls 2 x R2Yr RWB Limousin Heifers

Alistair & Eileen McWilliam Ph 06 372 7861 or 027 455 0099 www.tetaumata.co.nz

View mylivestock.co.nz for details Register to buy at least 48 hours prior to the sale. Prior inspection by arrangement only. Contact: Peta Lean 028 258 14890 Julie Evans 021 992 558 Brent Bougen 027 210 4698 NZ Farmers Livestock - Stud Stock

Alistair & Ei 150

Wed 1st June at 1pm On Farm Auction

GRAYLEEN LIMOUSIN 4 x R2Yr Limousin Bulls

LK0111816©

Thursday 9 thJune 2022

BVD VACCInA

Beef In

AUTOMATED ONLINE SALE VIA MYLIVESTOCK 7PM THURSDAY 2ND JUNE 2022

FARMERS WEEKLY – May 23, 2022

Te Taumata Genetics

Herd Sire Te Taumata Justice

LK0107191© LK0111795©

www.waitangiangus.co.nz

50 YEARS OF BREEDING EST. 1972

Mary Taylor PH: 06 8555322 Andy & Emma Martin PH: 068555348 E: taylors@glenbraestud.co.nz View Online: www.glenbraestud.co.nz

Lot 6

Sons of Glenbrae Nightrider 1761 available

Selling 30 Powerful Poll Hereford bulls

Glenbrae Annual Bull Sale 1019 Mangaorapa Rd, Porangahau.

Thursday 2pm. 2nd June 2022

OREGON angus AUCTION

34 BULLS

Tuesday 7th June 2022 – 3pm

MONDAY 30th MAY 2022 - 11.00AM 488 MANGAOTAKI ROAD, PIOPIO

Andrew & Tracey Neal Ph: 07 877 8009 • Mob: 027 366 5514 potawa488@gmail.com

Online bidding with bidr® and MyLivestock Avaliable

OREGON DYNAMITE

AT MORLAND 1464 MASTERTON STRONVAR ROAD KEITH & GAE HIGGINS 06 372 2782

BULL WALK THURSDAY 19TH MAY, FROM 1.50PM

JW111622©

Quiet, reliable, affordable fully guaranteed Bulls. 20 years breeding and selling Simmentals. C10 herd, BVD clear, vaccinated, semen & service tested.

Livestock Noticeboard

FARMERS WEEKLY – May 23, 2022

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

Ready to talk some Bull? Contact Javier: 0800 85 25 80 or email livestock@globalhq.co.nz

NGĀPUTAHI 13 JUNE BULL SALE

MONDAY

Viewing from 1pm AUCTION 3pm

THE ROAD AHEAD’S ALL BLACK TRULY COMMERCIALLY FARMED WELL FIGURED ANIMALS

TOTARA RESERVE POHANGINA VALLEY

Sound well fleshed sires, Excellent temperament 200 Fully Breedplan recorded cows • 20 Bulls Catalogued

Forbes Cameron 06 329 4050 or Angus Cameron 06 329 4711

Scan our QR code with your phone camera to see our Sale Bulls data.

LK0111740©

ALL INSPECTIONS WELCOME BY APPOINTMENT

BULL OPEN DAY: WEDNESDAY 1st JUNE, 1 - 5PM • ALL ENQUIRIES WELCOME

28TH ANNUAL SALE THURSDAY 9TH JUNE, 1PM, TE KUITI SALE YARDS

also online bidding with

PETER & CAROLINE FOSS

22 Stud Bulls For Sale

495 Potaka Road, RD 1, Aria, King Country Ph/fax (07) 877 7881 • Email: pcfossy@xtra.co.nz

Thursday 2nd June 10am Viewing from 8am On farm at Mironui –1877 Weber Rd, Dannevirke

Selling 45 R2 Angus Bulls on farm – Putorino Road, Rata Wednesday 8th June 2022 – 2.30pm

Bruce and Chrissina Donald 1877 Weber Rd, RD 10, Dannevirke 4970

See catalogue online at – www.merchiston angus.com

P: 06 374 2939 M: 027 230 2112 E: bruce.chrissina@xtra.co.nz

Enquiries welcome to – Richard Rowe – 027 279 8841

W: ngakoukaherefords.co.nz

LK0111580©

Musgrave 316 Exclusive

LK0111806©

Proven Alliance yield graders for the Handpicked Premium.

Livestock Noticeboard

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

STOCK REQUIRED MALE LAMBS 32-38kg

G.A.P. LAMBS 34-42kg R2 YR ANG & ANG X STEERS 380-450kg R2YR HERE BULLS 430kg R2YR ANGUS BULLS 380-400kg R2YR FRSN BULLS 400-460kg

• Excellent EBVs • Docile, Sound, Growthy Bulls • Polled and Scured • Weight range 700kg - 806kg 16/3/22 (Wnr bulls Av 337kg, Wnr hfs Av 301kg)

STOCK FOR SALE

100 R3YR HERE HEIFERS VIC HERE 10th Nov

Inspection Welcome

Ross Dyer 0274 333 381

www.dyerlivestock.co.nz

Ph: Christine Eagle 027 230 6686

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

Manawatu (Stud Est.1973)

LK0111834©

Available now – Private Treaty

FARMERS WEEKLY – May 23, 2022

Ready to talk some Bull? Get in touch with Javier to discuss the best advertising options to suit your needs this sale season! 06 323 0761 / 027 602 4925 livestock@globalhq.co.nz farmersweekly.co.nz/advertising

Q Tim & Kelly B 524 Paewhenua

\. 07-8732816 mi tim@stortho "Beef by Genetics

PINE PARK storthoaksa ANGUS0 0 @storthoak Storth Oaks

35 2-year-old bulls Sale Thursday 9th June – 11.30am

ANGUS Beef By Genetics...

Please call to arrange a viewing Phone: Edward 021 704 778

Bull sale: 1st June, 1 pm

TAUMARUNUI ANGUS BULL SALE DAY THURSDAY 2ND JUNE SHIAN 11AM - BLACK RIDGE 2PM - PUKE-NUI 4.30PM

BLACK RIDGE Celebrating 50 years of breeding Featuring Lot 14 ‘A Bull For Starship’ 11am, 2 June 2022 – Meads Road, Taumarunui

ANGUS STUD On-Farm Bull Sale

Thursday 2nd June 2022, 2pm 30 R2 Year Bulls SIRE BULLS:

ANGUS

Tangihau Maximus N458, Te Mania Buff 314, Stokman South Dakota N226, Merchiston Power House N282, First son’s of Maximus N458 available

STARSHIP

CHARITY

LK0111564©

BULL AUCTION

40 Two Year Old Bulls Bulls sired by: Matauri Ranger L362, Waiterenui Klooney P011 Rangatira 17483, Merchiston Powerhouse N177, Taimate Mako L26

BVD, Lepto, 10 in 1 Vaccinated & Semen Evaluated Contact – Brian & Sharon Sherson: Ph 07 895 7686 Email: b.sherson@xtra.co.nz Rob & Tracy Sherson: Ph 07 895 6694, Mob 027 230 8230 www.shianangus.co.nz – Follow us on

DEAN & TERESA SHERSON 675 Taringamotu Road, RD 4, TAUMARUNUI 3994 p: 07 896 7211 m: 027 690 2033 e: black_ridge@live.com.au

Like and Find us on Facebook

Inspection and Enquiries always welcome. All bulls BVD vaccinated and tested. Lepto vaccinated. Semen evaluated. TB C10.

BULL SALE

THURSDAY 2ND JUNE 2022 AT 4:30PM Bull Sale Venue: 303 River Road, SH 43, Taumarunui

32 Bulls

Alan & Catherine Donaldson p: (07) 896 6714 e: agcsdonaldson@gmail.com

Find us on Facebook

JW111731©

NEW website - check it out storthoaks.com

Livestock Noticeboard

FARMERS WEEKLY – May 23, 2022

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

Hinewaka Shorthorns 19th ANNUAL BULL SALE Wednesday 8th June 2022, 3pm – on farm

BULL SALE DATE 1ST JUNE AT 3:30PM.

ANNUAL ON FARM AUCTION HELD UNDER COVER. Located off state highway 4. 841 Tapuiwahine Valley Road Ongarue, Taumarunui 3997. p: 07 894 6030 e: colvendfarm@gmail.com Colvend Shorthorn & Angus Stud

Colvend Angus established in 2016 on females from the Oakview, Turihaua and Springdale Studs Colvend Shorthorns established in 2000. Successes at Beef Expo 3 Supreme Champion bulls and 2 Reserve Champions.

20 R2YR BULLS LK0111783©

ALAN & VAL PARK

BVD tested free. TB C10

View online catalogue at www.hinewakashorthorns.co.nz and visit our facebook page

David, Pip & Mitch Blackwood – Ph: 06 372 7615 456 Te Wharau Road, Masterton

Sale Day June 7 - Open Everyday Commercially Farmed Herd in Tiraumea Hill Country

43 High Performance Bulls On Farm Auction 12 Noon & Live on Bidr

Looking for a Beef Shorthorn? Check them out

Glenrossie

Whangarei Heads Sale 1st July, 1pm 09 434 0987 - David 09 434 0718 -Will

Hill Country Cattle Thriving in any Environment

Stuart Robbie 027 8484408

Sons of Feature Sires

TH Frontier 174E & Okawa Rommel

Lochburn

Douglas Robbie 027 9197150 Raupuha

Carnegie

Taupiri Sale 18th May, 3.00pm 027 484 4672 - Kelvin

Mahoenui Bull& Heifer Sale 31st May, 9am 07 877 8977 - Russell

Morton

Katikati Sale 19th May, 1:00pm 021 520 244 - Craig

Waiuku Private Sales 021 031 3091

Browns

Morrinsville Private Sales 07 889 5965 - Hamish

Aubrey

Waitomo Private Sale 07 873 6968 - Ron

Roscliff

Te Awamutu Private Sales 027 211 1112 - Ross

Bullock Creek

otapawa@xtra.co.nz

www.otapawa.co.nz

Waitara Private Sales 06 754 6699 - Roger

Mill Valley

Whangamomona Private Sales 06 762 3520 - Aaron

Glenview

Rotorua Private Sales 021 460 957 - Diane

Mangaotuku

Stratford Private Sales 06 765 7269 - Jack

Colvend

Ongarue Sale 31st May, 3.30pm 07 894 6030 - Alan

Te Kohanui

Red, White & Roans of our world

Hiwiroa Sale

Marton Private Sales 06 327 8185 - Alan

Sale 8th June, 3.00pm 06 372 7615 - David

Turiwhate

Dunblane

Kumara 26th May, Bidr Sale 027 379 8167 - Chris

Waikari Private Sales 027 233 3678 - Chris

Glenbrook Station

Carriganes Cattle

Omarama Private Sales 021 285 9303 - Simon

Dunsandel Private Sales 022 470 2447 - Sarah

Westwood

Maerewhenua

Tuatapere Private Sales 03 226 6713 - Anita

Glenfern

Bull & Heifer On-Farm Sale

Tokanui Private Sales 03 246 8498 - Allan

Waipukurau Private Sales 06 858 5369 - Jim 06 855 4737 - Nick

Hinewaka Sale

Oamaru Private Sales 03 431 2871 - Norm

Glendhu

Heriot Sale 24th May, 11am 027 497 8104 - Fraser

Rough Ridge

Ranfurly Sale 20th May, 11am 03 444 9277 - Malcolm

Using a n bull in Shorthor eeding ss-br your cro l increase wil program ne up to bottom li 20%

31st May 2022, 9:00 am

Contact Russell Proffit Enquiries and inspection always welcome email: rnmwproffit@xtra.co.nz 2033 State Highway 3, RD Mahoenui, 3978 phone: 07 877 8977 or 027 355 2927 www.raupuhastud.co.nz Raupuha Stud

Stay ahead of the rest

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

farmersweekly.co.nz/enewsletters

Renowned for great marbling producing top quality meat Keep an eye out on our facebook and website for updates

www.shorthorn.co.nz

Livestock Noticeboard

FARMERS WEEKLY – May 23, 2022

SALE TALK

UPCOMING MATAWHERO CATTLE SALE

Contact:

Jamie Hayward 027 434 7586 Freephone 0800 10 22 76 | www.pggwrightson.co.nz Helping grow the country

The parrot said “Brr… Yes I learned my lesson, but what did the chicken do?”

UPCOMING AUCTIONS

NZ’s Virtual Saleyard

FRIDAY 27 MAY 11am 1pm

11am Leafland Simmental Bull Sale 3.30pm Kincardine Angus Bull Sale

Machinery & Sundry SaleA/C Markeaton Farms Stoneburn Herefords & Waimara Angus 11th Annual Bull Sale

SATURDAY 28 MAY 1pm

Flagstaff Hereford, Glacier Horned Hereford & Bannockburn Angus Combined Bull Sale

THURSDAY 26 MAY

Glenside Simmentals Bull Sale 7pm Turiwhate Shorthorn Bull Sale 7pm Lindsay Park Jersey Sale 7.30pm Morrison Farming Elite Stud Bull Sale

Vet PT dates available. R3s have had calves. BVD free & vac. C10.

2pm

MONDAY 30 MAY 11am 1pm

Potawa Simmental Bull Sale Umbrella Range Angus Bull Sale 1.30pm Kia Toa Charolais Bull Sale

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

years! ing 50 Celebrat

Est. 1972

OPEN DAY: 10.30am, 26 May at 811 Maraetotara Rd

50 year anniversary sale! 60 rising two-year-old bulls 10 rising tw0-year PTIC heifers On farm auction at 811 Maraetotara Rd

Contact: Joe (CM) Hodge – 027 280 6747 Benneydale

BEEFGEN is currently purchasing animals for live export for late July delivery:

WANTED

2021 Holstein Friesian Heifers (preference given to A2/A2 heifers)

2021 Angus Heifers 2021 Simmental Heifers

2021 BORN FRSN HEIFERS F12+: $1700 + GST / head F8-F11’s: $1600 + GST / head F7/Unrecorded: $1400 + GST

Simmental

190 kgs min live weight

Registered $1600 • Commercial $1350

Delivery – July 2022

Angus

SPECIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: • True to type Friesian Heifers, including the F8-F11 unrecorded heifers. • Standard Chinese Protocol, heifers must have been on the property for a minimum of 6 months at the time of delivery.

Commercial $1100 Please contact your local agent for further information. BEEFGEN : Brian Pearson : 021 0907 1688 BEEFGEN : Jess Crow : 022 074 1210 BEEFGEN Office : 06 927 7154

JW111761©

She took it out and said, “Did you learn your lesson?” It said another bad word so she put it back in for 30 seconds. She took it out and asked if it learned its lesson yet.

their ability to shift.

WEDNESDAY 25 MAY

6x R3 & 5x R4. $1190 each Calving 20/9/2023 to 31/10/2023.

JW111675©

of well-bred hill country cattle renown for

Kerrah Simmentals 7th On-Farm Bull Sale 2.30pm Delmont Angus 22nd Bull Sale

Stud, Oropi Tauranga, Est 1940s.

But, when she got home the parrot said a bad word, so she put it in the freezer for 10 seconds.

Great opportunity to purchase large lines

1pm

Bloodline ex Mount View Polled Hereford

She said, “I can teach it good manners.”

Tuesday 31st May, 11am

TUESDAY 24 MAY

HEREFORD HEIFER & COW HERD Dispersal Private Sale

An old lady walked into a pet store, found a parrot, and asked the owner if she could buy it. The owner said, “Heck no! That parrot has a bad mouth! Trust me – you do not want that parrot!”

LK0111831©

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

NORTH & SOUTH ISLAND

PHONE TIM ON 027 443 7420 FOR MORE INFORMATION or email timbrandonlivestock@outlook.com

Auahi Charolais

Henderson Partners

Pio Pio

Est. 1981

Offering: R2 Bulls – several polled

C10 • EBV’s will be available • Vaccinated BVD tested clear

GOLD HEIFER SALE!

SALE DATE: 1pm, Thurs 16 June P: (06) 874 7844 M: 027 4888 635 E: info@koanuiherefords.co.nz

www.koanuiherefords.co.nz

Facebook video in production

For inspections phone John 027 633 1775 or 07 873 8477

Farmers Weekly advertising deadlines have changed All deadlines are now 24 hours earlier For advertising deadlines please go to farmersweekly.co.nz/s/advertising Or contact 0800 85 25 80 for further information

LK0111549©

FARMERS WEEKLY – May 23, 2022

Livestock Noticeboard

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

MARKET SNAPSHOT

Market Snapshot brought to you by the AgriHQ analysts.

Mel Croad

Suz Bremner

Reece Brick

Fiona Quarrie

Hayley O’Driscoll

Caitlin Pemberton

Deer

Sheep

Cattle BEEF

SHEEP MEAT

VENISON

Last week

Prior week

Last year

NI Steer (300kg)

6.00

5.25

NI lamb (17kg)

8.45

8.35

7.40

NI Stag (60kg)

7.95

5.40

NI Bull (300kg)

5.95

5.15

NI mutton (20kg)

5.75

5.80

SI Stag (60kg)

8.00

5.45

NI Cow (200kg)

3.80

3.50

SI lamb (17kg)

8.45

8.30

7.00

SI Steer (300kg)

5.85

4.75

SI mutton (20kg)

5.65

5.60

5.50

SI Bull (300kg)

5.70

4.70

Export markets (NZ$/kg)

SI Cow (200kg)

3.55

3.15

UK CKT lamb leg

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

Last week Prior week

Last year

10.54

10.60

8.77

9.66

9.46

7.80

12.82

12.77

11.77

North Island steer slaughter price

6.0

9.0

5.0

8.0

6.0

10.0

6.0

5.0

9.0

5.5

South Island lamb slaughter price

10.0 $/kg CW South Island steer slaughter price

7.0

5.5

8.0

5.0

4.5

Oct

Dec 5-yr ave

Feb

Apr 2020-21

Jun

Apr

Jun

2020-21

Dairy

Aug 2021-22

Last year

2.72

2.33

37 micron ewe

2.90

30 micron lamb

2.70

10.00

600

9.50

550 $/tonne

9.00 8.50 8.00 7.50

Last year

Urea

1205

672

Super

373

319

2.15

DAP

1420

990

450

May-21

DAIRY FUTURES (US$/T)

Jul-21

Sep-21

Nov-21

Jan-22

Mar-22

May-22

Prior week

vs 4 weeks ago

WMP

3900

3865

4270

SMP

4150

4200

4495

5725

5700

6600

Butter

5350

6600

Milk Price

9.36

9.45

YTD Low

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corporation Ltd

21.05

33.4

20.15

Meridian Energy Limited (NS)

4.65

5.36

4.33

Auckland International Airport Limited

7.28

7.95

6.88

Spark New Zealand Limited

4.78

4.98

4.3

Mercury NZ Limited (NS)

5.83

6.36

5.45

Mainfreight Limited

74.1

94.4

71.72

Ebos Group Limited

39.1

44.3

36.11

Contact Energy Limited

7.77

8.42

7.36

Infratil Limited

7.9

8.4

7.5

Fletcher Building Limited

5.91

7.44

5.81

Listed Agri Shares

5pm, close of market, Wednesday YTD High

YTD Low

0.245

0.27

0.215

The a2 Milk Company Limited

4.59

6.39

4.2

Comvita Limited

3.2

3.78

3.12

Delegat Group Limited

12.44

14.45

11.81

Fonterra Shareholders' Fund (NS)

2.84

3.78

2.75

500

Foley Wines Limited

1.51

1.57

1.4

Greenfern Industries Limited

0.109

0.25

0.106

450

Livestock Improvement Corporation Ltd (NS)

1.66

1.73

1.3

Marlborough Wine Estates Group Limited

0.194

0.26

0.194

400 350

May-21

WMP FUTURES - VS FOUR WEEKS AGO

YTD High

550

* price as at close of business on Thursday

ArborGen Holdings Limited

600

$/tonne

AMF

Company

CANTERBURY FEED BARLEY

Last price*

NZ average (NZ$/t)

Top 10 by Market Cap

500

350

…

Sept. 2022

… M

J…

N …

…

J…

…

Aug 2021-22

Prior week

400

Nearby contract

Jun

Last week

CANTERBURY FEED WHEAT

Sept. 2021

Apr 2020-21

FERTILISER Prior week

Grain

Data provided by

MILK PRICE FUTURES

7.00

Feb

Fertiliser

Aug 2021-22

Two weeks ago

Coarse xbred ind. Feb

Dec 5-yr ave

(NZ$/kg)

Dec

Oct

7.0

WOOL

5.0

5-yr ave

7.0 6.0

6.0

Oct

8.0

9.0

5.0

4.0

South Island stag slaughter price

6.0

6.5 $/kg CW

7.0

6.5

4.0

$/kg MS

8.0

11.0

4.5

Jul-21

Sep-21

Nov-21

Jan-22

Mar-22

May-22

WAIKATO PALM KERNEL

New Zealand King Salmon Investments Ltd

0.2

1.38

0.19

PGG Wrightson Limited

4.68

5.76

3.93

Rua Bioscience Limited

0.32

0.53

0.3

Sanford Limited (NS)

4.34

5.07

4.32

Scales Corporation Limited

4.63

5.59

4.55

Seeka Limited

5.08

5.36

4.98

3.22

3.54

3.11

T&G Global Limited

2.85

3.01

2.77

4400

550

Synlait Milk Limited (NS)

4200

500

S&P/NZX Primary Sector Equity Index

12303

14293

12199

450

S&P/NZX 50 Index

11258

13150

11138

4000

S&P/NZX 10 Index

10904

12725

10784

$/tonne

US$/t

9.0

7.0

5.0

Last year

North Island stag slaughter price

11.0

$/kg CW

7.0

North Island lamb slaughter price

10.0 $/kg CW

US imported 95CL bull

Last week Prior week

10.0

Export markets (NZ$/kg) US domestic 90CL cow

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

$/kg CW

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

Sara Hilhorst

Ingrid Usherwood

3800 3600

400 350

Jun

Jul Aug Latest price

Sep

Oct 4 weeks ago

Nov

300

May-21

S&P/FW PRIMARY SECTOR EQUITY

Jul-21

Sep-21

Nov-21

Jan-22

Mar-22

May-22

12303

S&P/NZX 50 INDEX

11258

S&P/NZX 10 INDEX

10904

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

Analyst intel

WEATHER

Overview Monday and Tuesday we have southwesterlies and a few weak fronts may move through delivering the odd shower out west and about the far south now and then. Eastern regions will be drier overall with sun and lighter winds and a cold to start in the mornings. On Wednesday the airflow tends a little more southwest so there is the chance of a shower getting into eastern regions. Showers are more likely to push up the eastern side of the country on Thursday, then conditions clear up out west. An anticyclone pushes in on Friday with showers in the east clearing away. The weekend is mainly settled and frosty with high pressure.

14-day outlook More settled this week compared with how last week turned out. We have a general southwesterly airflow over New Zealand today and Tuesday, this airflow tends slightly more to the south on Wednesday then further to the south on Thursday as a large anticyclone ridges deeply to the south in the Tasman Sea. This high starts to move in on Friday bringing in some settled and frosty weather. The high hangs around this weekend bringing more settled weather. Early next week the high starts to move out to the east and we get northerlies. A front moves northwards over the country on Tuesday and Wednesday opening the gates to southwesterlies which continue for the remainder of next week.

Mel Croad mel.croad@globalhq.co.nz

Soil Moisture

Highlights

18/05/2022

Wind

No overly strong winds this week but southwesterlies may be fresh for coastal areas, southwesterlies in the east on Thursday could be strong about the coast then winds start to ease back from Friday as high pressure moves in. The weekend sees mostly light winds. Source: NIWA Data

7-day rainfall forecast

Temperature

Tuesday and Wednesday is mainly dry but we have the odd shower at times for western regions and in the far south (Southland). On Wednesday we could see a shower or two in the east but still mainly dry overall. Thursday we have a greater chance of showers in the east and it dries up out west. Showers in the east on Friday but clearing. The weekend is mainly dry but showers could continue in the far north and for Fiordland. 0

What’s going on in the US beef market?

The upper North Island sees the warmest temperatures in the mid to late teens this week. Elsewhere will be just getting into double figures or perhaps mid teens if you are lucky in the east. A risk of frosts too especially Friday morning onwards.

THE sound of beef burgers sizzling on a backyard barbecue in the United States through May/June is as common as hot dogs at a baseball game. This surge in consumer demand every year pushes the US to shore up supplies and generally this means looking to overseas suppliers. From our perspective it means a rally in US imported lean beef prices. This usually coincides with peak beef production here allowing slaughter prices to hold or gain despite the increased production levels. This year US imported beef prices have been under pressure since mid-February. Back then US 95CL bull meat prices were trading at US$3.22/lb and US 90CL at US$3.02/lb, only to unravel through the preceding months to land US18-20c/lb lower. The key reason behind the falling imported prices is an unseasonal surge in the US domestic beef cow kill. Drought conditions through the US winter carried into spring, leaving farmers little choice but to cull hard. Supplementary feed prices are prohibitive to holding on to cattle and there is little appetite from less affected farmers to take on more cows. The US beef cow kill in the four months to early May has climbed well over 1.35 million head.

This is 28% higher than the five-year average for this period. The ample supply of US domestic lean beef has limited the need to secure the usual volumes from NZ and driven imported prices lower. It hasn’t even mattered that beef import volumes from NZ and Australia have been much lower than normal. US imported beef prices are at record levels for this time of the season and are at least US20c/lb higher than this time last year despite the high US cow kill. However, there isn’t the same buoyancy in the market given this high US beef supply and the fact that consumers are becoming more conscious of their discretionary spending. Unfortunately, with lockdowns in China and general supply chain disruption making it difficult for NZ exporters to access higher paying markets, many have had to rely on the softer market conditions in the US, where access remains easier but at reduced prices compared to recent months. Fortunately, this softness in US imported beef prices has yet to rub off on farmgate returns here. The favourable exchange rate has enabled returns in NZD terms to remain very high and support farmgate slaughter prices. The short-term outlook remains firm but would benefit from less disruption to shipping routes and an end to lockdowns in China. This would encourage further market demand and buying power as our production rates remain high.

Highlights/ Extremes

100

200

400

Rainfall accumulation over seve days starting from 6:00am Sunday, May 22 through to 6:00am Sunday, May 29, forecast generated at 12:00am Thursday, May 19.

A front on Thursday brings showers in the east and quite cold temperatures, these showers are quite coastal so if there is snow flurries they may only occur about Otago Peninsula and Banks Peninsula. Frosty Friday morning onwards as a high moves in.

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

PLENTY TO CHEW ON: The short-term outlook remains firm but would benefit from less disruption to shipping routes and an end to lockdowns in China, AgriHQ analyst Mel Croad says.

Embracing change to achieve sustainable profitability Matthew Tayler is not afraid of failure and giving something a go. There isn’t much that is routine on Lorne Peak Station in Garston, Northern Southland. Watch the video now at youtube.com/OnFarmStory This episode was made possible with support from Rabobank On Farm Story

On Farm Story

SALE YARD WRAP

Prime market light brightens Prime cattle and sheep space at processors has freed up to some extent and that has led to a firming in auction prices. Most sale yards covered by AgriHQ reported a firm market for prime stock as buyers returned to the rails with good budgets in preparation for a better flow of stock into the processors. While lifts were not significant, it was a step in the right direction for vendors and was timely for prime ewes in particular as the early lambing regions start scanning and dry ewes enter the yards. NORTHLAND Wellsford store cattle • R3 steers, 440-526kg, held at $2.80-$2.89/kg • R2 dairy-beef steers, 385-490kg, managed $2.91-$2.96/kg • Capital stock weaner Ayrshire heifers, 141-175kg, earned $325$380 • Weaner Friesian bulls, 212-269kg, realised $650-$805 Just over 650 cattle were penned at WELLSFORD last Monday. Quality cattle mainly held while lesser types were harder work. Better R2 Angus-Friesian, Hereford-Friesian, and Murray Grey-Friesian heifers, 340-464kg, traded at steady to improved levels of $2.71-$2.76/kg. Weaners made up over 60% of the yarding and better steers, 220-343kg, returned $800-$990 while the balance, 158-245kg, mostly earned $650-$795. Top heifers, 218-220kg, managed $605-$655. HerefordFriesian, 142-185kg, held at $530-$560. Read more in your LivestockEye.

AUCKLAND Pukekohe cattle • Good forward store heifers earned $2.50/kg to $2.62/kg, $1050$1125 • Medium weaner steers fetched $660-$735 • Light weaner heifers traded at $540 • Medium 15-month heifers achieved $2.25/kg to $2.60/kg, $720$945 • Boner cows made $1.06/kg to $1.94/kg, $380-$1030 Dry conditions put pressure on prices at PUKEKOHE on Saturday, May 14 and light store steers made $2.68-$2.73/ kg, $1100-$1270. Light to medium prime steers eased to $2.82-$2.88/kg, $1410-$1800 and heifers $2.80-$2.90/kg, $1250-$1425.

COUNTIES Tuakau sheep 16.5, prime cattle 18.5, store cattle 12.5 • Heavy prime heifers traded at $2.88-$2.97/kg • Prime ewes reached $180 • Speckle Park steers, 568kg, returned $2.99/kg • Autumn-born Hereford-Friesian heifers made $765 TUAKAU’s prime cattle sale drew a yarding of 295-head, PGG Wrightson agent Craig Reiche reported. Heavy steers made $2.90-$3.01/kg and light-medium $2.76/kg to $2.90/ kg. Beef cows managed $1.73-$1.82/kg and light-medium heifers $2.69/kg to $2.88/kg. In the boner section, heavy cows made $1.50-$1.57/kg, medium $1.42-$1.50/kg and light $1.10/kg to $1.42/kg. Heavy prime lambs earned $162$180 on Monday, with light-medium at $117 to $162 and store lambs, $50 to $124. Medium-heavy prime ewes realised $125 to $180. The store sale on May 12 featured quality lines of 15 to 24-month cattle, including 495kg Hereford-Friesian steers at $2.82/kg and 467kg Angus-Friesian, $2.80/kg. HerefordFriesian and Angus-cross steers, 345-364kg, made $2.79$2.92/kg. Angus heifers, 463kg, managed $2.72/kg and 445kg Hereford-Friesian, $2.67/kg.

WAIKATO Frankton cattle 17.5 • Good R3 dairy-beef and exotic-dairy steers, 508-542kg, earned $2.91-$3.01/kg • R2 Hereford-Friesian steers, 449-485kg, eased to $2.82-$2.87/kg • Weaner Hereford-Friesian heifers, 294kg, topped their section at $865 A moderate offering of 536 store cattle was presented by PGG Wrightson last Tuesday at FRANKTON and good buyer interest boosted competition. R3 Hereford-Friesian and Angus-Friesian steers, 494-554kg, traded at $2.74-$2.85/ kg. R2 Charolais-Friesian steers, 376-409kg, held at $2.89$2.90/kg. Hereford-Friesian heifers, 421-428kg, earned $2.51-$2.61/kg with smaller options, 386-397kg, at $2.39$2.46/kg. Weaner Hereford-Friesian steers, 207-222kg, firmed to $800-$820. Better boner cows, 535-592kg, reached $1.49-$1.57/kg and the next cut, $1.31-$1.46/kg. Read more in your LivestockEye.

Frankton cattle 18.5 • R2 Angus and Angus-Hereford steers, 441kg, topped their section at $2.89/kg • R2 Angus heifers, 407kg, fetched $2.63/kg • Quality weaner Hereford-Friesian steers and heifers, 158-165kg, held at $540-$565 New Zealand Farmers Livestock presented just over 550 store cattle at FRANKTON last Wednesday. The mixed yarding sold in line with quality and type. R3 steers, 515525kg, were consistent at $2.74-$2.76/kg. The balance of R2 steers, 345-477kg, were mainly $2.52-$2.66/kg. HerefordFriesian heifers, 298-366kg, softened to $2.35-$2.42/ kg. Weaner Angus steers, 231kg, reached $800. Hereford heifers, 122-233kg, firmed to $470-$600 and same breed bulls, 139kg, $530. Top boner Friesian-cross cows, 576kg, held at $1.60/kg while Friesian, 400-530kg, eased at $1.30/ kg to $1.49/kg. R2 and R3 Hereford heifers, 418-436kg and vetted-in-calf or run-with-bull, were consistent at $1005$1020. Mixed-age in-calf options, 498-599kg, were secured to $1230-$1500. Read more in your LivestockEye. PGG Wrightson feeder calf • Medium to good Hereford-Friesian bulls eased to $100-$250 PGG Wrightson presented 270 feeder calves at FRANKTON last Tuesday. Buyer orders were quickly filled which provided some excellent shopping for those who remained. Just a small number of Friesian bulls were offered, and good types realised $100-$150 with small to medium at $10-$80. Medium to good Angus-Friesian earned $69-$150. Top Hereford-Friesian heifers fetched $90-$130 and small to medium, $10-$65. Crossbred bull and heifer calves traded at $20-$60.

KING COUNTRY Te Kuiti sheep • Heavy prime ewes earned $185-$196, medium $160-$168 and light $110-$120 • The best of the store ewe lambs made $115-$120 • Light to medium store lambs fetched $85-$113 There was a medium sized yarding of sheep at TE KUITI last Wednesday. Top prime lambs made $205-$212, medium $170-$192 and smaller types $140-$146. Good to heavy store male lambs achieved $149-$152 and the next cut $120-$135.

BAY OF PLENTY Rangiuru cattle and sheep • R2 Angus and Angus Hereford heifers, 328kg, made $2.59/kg • Weaner Charolais steers, 190kg, collected $595 Better quality cattle were picked from the rest at RANGIURU last Tuesday and, for type, markets held. R2 Angus steers, 387kg, made $2.71/kg on account of some lively characters. Hereford-Friesian steers, 396-420kg, earned $2.70/kg to $2.97/kg while same-breed heifers which weighed 420-427kg realised $2.62/kg. Weaner Angus steers, 208-240kg, returned $540-$550 and HerefordFriesian at 161-186kg made $575-$585. Prime dairy-beef steers which weighed 545-633kg realised $2.81-$2.87/kg on a steady market and Red Devon-cross heifers, 493kg, collected $2.76/kg. The boner cow market strengthened, and the bulk of Friesian returned $1.44-$1.54/kg. In the small yarding of sheep, heaviest prime lambs made $190 and top store lambs, $106. Read more in your LivestockEye.

POVERTY BAY Matawhero sheep • Store mixed-sex lambs mostly made $132-$143 • Store cryptorchid lambs earned $135-$163 • Prime ewes fetched $165-$166 • The bulk of the prime lambs achieved $160-$174 Store lamb throughput lifted to more than 5000-head at MATAWHERO on Friday, May 13. The top end of the male lambs made $140-$156 with medium $120-$135 and lighter types, $81-$107. Ewe lambs made up a large portion of the yarding and the top end was able to firm a few dollars to $130-$145.50, medium $120-$129 and light $80-$106. Read more in your LivestockEye.

TARANAKI Taranaki cattle • R2 steers mostly earned $2.48-$2.55/kg with better types at $2.56-$2.66/kg • R2 heifers around 400kg typically fetched $2.33-$2.41/kg • Weaner steers and heifers mostly traded at $355-$470 • Prime steers, 650kg, achieved $3.03-$3.05/kg The market eased at TARANAKI last Wednesday with lots of small lines of mixed-quality cattle offered. Shorter-term 3-year plus Friesian bulls, 563kg, achieved $2.87/kg, and lighter types $2.57-$2.65/kg. R3 heifers were mostly $2.54/ kg to $2.67/kg. The majority of boner cows sold in a range of $1.40-$1.50/kg though heavy types above 600kg achieved $1.60/kg. Read more in your LivestockEye.

HAWKE’S BAY Stortford prime sheep • Heavy mixed-age ewes traded at steady to improved levels of $165-$179 • Light-medium to medium good ewes held at $113-$133 • Ten very heavy male lambs topped their section at $200 Ewe throughput increased to 1314-head at STORTFORD LODGE last Monday as the start of scanned-dry ewes made their way to sale. Good to very good mixed-age ewes improved to $142.50-$163, as did lighter types up to $96$109.50. Just over 300 lambs were offered. Heavy males and mixed-sex returned $165-$188 and good mixed-sex, $151$165. Good to heavy ewe lambs fetched $150-$192. Read more in your LivestockEye. Stortford Lodge store cattle and sheep • Mixed-age Wagyu cows, run-with a Wagyu bull, sold for $500$805 • R2 Hereford heifers, 461-475kg, sold well at $2.77-$2.82/kg • Weaner Angus steers, 165-191kg, returned $665-$780, $4.03$4.09/kg • Top cryptorchid lambs lifted to $155-$165 • Top ewe lambs reached $150-$165 Every class of cattle was presented at STORTFORD LODGE last Wednesday, though volume only equated to 650-head. Type and quality were mixed throughout and included R2 Angus heifers, run-with an Angus, which sold for $2.22-$2.24/kg but annual draft of same age and breed sold from $2.75/kg to $3.02/kg. A Wagyu dispersal included weaner bulls at $400-$500 and heifers, $350-$600 while Shorthorn of same age and breed made $500-$755 and $400-$570 respectively. Store lamb prices lifted $10 across the board. At least $130 was needed for males and most sold for $140-$158 and ewe lambs $128-$145. Read more in your LivestockEye.

MANAWATŪ Feilding store cattle and sheep • R3 Hereford-Friesian steers, 765-835kg, made $2220-$2400, $2.85-$2.90/kg • R2 Friesian bulls, 510-545kg, sold for $2.90-$2.95/kg • Autumn-born yearling Belgian Blue-cross steers, 485kg, were $1470, $3.03/kg • Store male lambs averaged $146 • Store ewe lambs averaged $127 About 1150 cattle traded at FEILDING on Friday, May 13. R3 Angus steers, 525-670kg, went for $3.15/kg while 410580kg traditional R2 steers varied from $3.00/kg to $3.20/ kg. Many pens of well-marked, 385-435kg R2 HerefordFriesian heifers made $2.65-$2.75/kg. Good-numbered lines of 190-220kg weaner Friesian bulls sold at $3.00$3.20/kg, $605-$670, and 175-215kg Hereford-Friesian steers made $3.25-$3.40/kg. A little over 16,000 store lambs were sold. Forward-store males returned $160-$170, good lines $145-$160, medium $125-$145, and light, $100-$120. Good ewe lambs made $140-$155, medium $125-$135, light $110-$120 and tail-enders, $85-$110. Read more in your LivestockEye. Feilding prime cattle and sheep • Heaviest lambs fetched $207 • Angus bulls, 685-745kg, collected $3.20-$3.22/kg

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022

The market held at FEILDING last Monday despite an influx of boner cows. Those 500kg or more realised $1.40/ kg to $1.55/kg while the remainder mostly earned $1.30$1.40/kg. Beef cows which weighed 510-638kg traded at $1.72-$1.76/kg. Dairy-beef steers, 668-812kg, made $2.87/kg while Friesian, 678kg, returned $2.80/kg and an Angus-Hereford heifer, 655kg, fetched $2.88/kg. The lamb market had a positive feel though returns were mostly steady for condition. A small offering of ewes were mostly lighter types for which the market held. Read more in your LivestockEye.

TALLIES CREEP UP: Temuka store lamb throughput grew to 9000head last Monday and the yarding featured a large number of fine wool-cross lambs.

Feilding weaner fair • Top weaner Angus steers, 300-305kg, made $1300-$1305, $4.30$4.35/kg • Weaner Simmental-cross steers, 335kg, topped the sale at $1370 • Top traditional weaner heifers, 280-295kg, reached $930-$950 The last beef weaner fair at FEILDING last Thursday found very strong buying on the almost 2100 head yarded. Better cuts of traditional steers were exceptional selling, about half 280kg or heavier were taken to $4.25-$4.35/kg and the remainder $3.95-$4.05/kg. Other traditional steers were mainly $3.95-$4.15/kg at 210-275kg and $810-$890 for 195-205kg. Some 305-325kg Charolais-cross steers were $4.15-$4.30/kg, $1300-$1350. Only half the heifers hold sold at the time of writing. Most of the 225-280kg traditional lines received $3.35-$3.55/kg but the remainders were at $3.05-$3.15/kg. Three pens of 195-285kg Charolais-cross made $2.85-$3.05/kg. Read more in your LivestockEye. Rongotea cattle • R2 Friesian bulls, 470kg, earned $2.68/kg • R2 Hereford-Friesian heifers, 415-478kg, fetched $2.65/kg to $2.87/kg • Weaner Hereford-bulls, 200kg, made $550 • Better feeder calves achieved $170-$210 There was a large yarding of boner cows at RONGOTEA last Tuesday, New Zealand Farmers Livestock agent Darryl Harwood reported. This included 325-573kg Friesian, Jersey, and crossbreds which earned $1.20/kg to $1.49/ kg. Weaner steers 200kg and above traded at $610-$620 with 207-225kg heifers at $540-$575. R2 steers were mostly $2.41/kg to $2.56/kg while the top end of Hereford-Friesian sold to $2.81/kg.

WAIRARAPA Masterton in-calf cow and heifer fair • Top R3-R4 Angus cows to an Angus bull reached $1880 Prices exceeded expectations at the MASTERTON in-calf heifer and cow fair last Wednesday. A total of 600 cows and 150 heifers were penned as a result of farm sales, lease changes, excess mating and annual draft consignments. Younger cattle sold to a wide bench of buyers from Taranaki, Central Plateau and Hawke’s Bay while local buyers were very strong on the older mixed-age lines. Nearly all heifers and cows were traditional in breeding and Angus made a clear premium over Hereford pens. Younger mixed-age lines were mainly R3 to R4 and sold for $1400$1830 and genuine mixed-age $1250-$1450.

CANTERBURY Coalgate cattle and sheep • R2 Angus and Angus-cross steers, 429-453kg, fetched $3.05/kg • Angus steer calves, 229kg, earned $820 Prime cattle sold on a stronger market at COALGATE on Thursday, May 12 and heifers made roughly 10c/kg more while steers and cows also made smaller improvements. Steers over 500kg mostly made $2.76-$2.85/kg while heifers over 400kg returned $2.61-$2.71/kg, and up to $2.79/kg for Angus and Angus-cross at 424-486kg and a 653kg Murray Grey. The bulk of beef cows traded at $1.79-$1.90/kg while 507-570kg Friesian earned $1.50/kg. R2 steers over 400kg exceeded $2.90/kg while lighter options were discounted. Heifer pens lacked quality and better beef and dairy-beef options over 360kg made $2.55-$2.64/kg. Sheffield lambs

returned $128 amongst an otherwise mixed yarding. The prime lamb market strengthened $5 while ewes held the lift of the previous week. Read more in your LivestockEye. Canterbury Park cattle and sheep • 18-month Hereford steers, 406kg, reached $3.19/kg • Corriedale wether lambs made $132 Cattle sold on stronger markets at CANTERBURY PARK last Tuesday. A yarding of mostly small but better-quality lines of store cattle met buyer demand and R2 traditional steers often breeched $3.00/kg and the same type in heifers earned $2.73-$2.88/kg. Prime traditional steers typically made $3.00-$3.08/kg and aside from a few under 430kg, heifers mostly traded from $2.72/kg to $2.92/kg. In-spec bulls varied from $2.70/ kg to $2.90/kg and the bulk of beef cows collected $1.80/kg to $2.00/kg. Sheep auctions also showed more strength and the ewe lambs which started the store sale returned $128$138. Down-Suffolk lambs with weight realised $130-$145. Prime lamb and ewe markets both lifted $5. Read more in your LivestockEye.

SOUTH-CANTERBURY Temuka store cattle • R2 Angus and Angus-Hereford steers, 396-407kg, fetched $3.00$3.09/kg • R2 Hereford heifers, 409kg and Charolais, 444kg, made $2.91$2.93/kg There was a greater proportion of South Otago than local cattle yarded at TEMUKA on Thursday, May a12 nd these were sold to a mostly local buying gallery. R2 traditional and Charolais steers mostly exceeded $3.00/kg and aside from the first pen of Hereford-Friesian at 430kg which made $3.02/kg, other heavy and well-marked dairy-beef types traded at $2.72-$2.82/kg. Traditional heifers mostly weighed under 350kg and made $2.61-$2.63/kg. The better dairy-beef options earned up to $2.76/kg, but most had red colouring and were heavily discounted or passed in. Dairy-beef steer calves, 183-218kg, earned $550-$600 while Tokanui traditional heifer calves, 194-217kg, collected $540$640. Read more in your LivestockEye. Temuka prime and boner cattle, all sheep • Top prime traditional cows held at $1.92-$1.99/kg • Prime steers mostly earned $2.85-$2.95/kg • Prime heifers held at $2.70-$2.80/kg • Heavy prime ewes collected $260

At over 1135-head, the yarding of prime and boner cattle at TEMUKA last Monday was the biggest offering since May 2017. Boner cows held at an average of $1.49/kg with more than 700-head in a range of $1.43-$1.53/kg. Close to 9000 store lambs were yarded and a large proportion were fine wool-cross which sold well. The heaviest halfbredPoll Dorset fetched $159, but a premium was still paid for quality crossbred lines. Medium Romdale ewe and wether lambs traded well at $142-$148. The prime lamb market strengthened while ewes held. Read more in your LivestockEye.

OTAGO Balclutha sheep • Prime ewes made $40-$165 • Prime rams earned $62-$92 Around 390 store lambs were offered by PGG Wrightson at BALCLUTHA on Wednesday, May 11. The average was $120, and values ranged from $70 to $140. Prime lambs averaged $162 with the bottom end at $126 and heavy types $198.

SOUTHLAND Charlton sheep • Top store lambs made $125-$136 and lighter types, $75-$102 • Prime rams fetched up to $114 • Prime wethers earned $100-$162 Prime lambs offered by PGG Wrightson made $78-$191 at CHARLTON on Thursday, May 12 and prime ewes $65-$200. Lorneville cattle and sheep • Prime bulls, 550kg, earned $2.50/kg • Boner cows above 480kg fetched $1.50-$1.60/kg • R2 beef-cross heifers, 400-412kg, made $990-$1080 • Weaner Friesian bulls, 202kg, traded at $500 • Heavy prime lambs achieved $170-$200, medium $138-$148 and light $126 A medium yarding of prime cattle was penned at LORNEVILLE last Tuesday. Better steers and heifers above 480kg made $2.70/kg to $2.90/kg and 420-480kg, $2.50$2.60/kg. Weaner Hereford-cross bulls, 130-165kg, earned $320-$450. Heavy prime ewes realised $146-$198, medium $120-$140 and light $90-$100, while local trade rams sold at $30-$80. A moderate yarding of store lambs sold well with the top end at $130-$150, medium $100-$125 and light $80-$100.

REPORTS SO ACCURATE, EVEN THE LIVESTOCK TAKE NOTICE.

The most comprehensive and independent sale results you can get your hands on

0800 85 25 80 info@agrihq.co.nz www.agrihq.co.nz

Only AgriHQ sample-weighs store lambs to give you $/kg LW benchmark pricing Informed commentary to support the trends Emailed directly after the sale

Choose from 10 sale yards across the country

Markets

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – May 23, 2022 NI STEER

NI LAMB

SI LAMB

($/KG)

6.00

8.45

BONER FRIESIAN COWS, 495KG, AT TEMUKA ($/KG)

1.50

high $1300-$1330 traditional weaner lights Top steers, 300-330kg, at Feilding

$1880 Top R3-R4 Angus cows to Angus bull at Masterton

Hustle and bustle at the yards Suz Bremner

suz.bremner@globalhq.co.nz

ALE yards around the country are filling up with livestock as farmers prepare for winter, but extra throughput is being added due to several unforeseen circumstances and that has made for a busy week. Not a single sale yard was the focus either, as several offered up larger than usual tallies for varying reasons. Waikato and South Auckland regions have been declared to be in a drought, which is a very worrying situation to be in anytime, but least of all heading into winter. Any extra mouths onfarm are heading out the gate. That has meant an increase in lesser-type cattle heading to local yards and though these are heavily discounted, buyers are meeting the market. Supplementary feed is flowing into the region in great

quantities from areas that had a better than average growth season, but that feed will be earmarked for capital stock and shorter time-frame cattle. The cancellation of a live-export shipment of dairy-beef heifers has meant that 12,000-head now need to find homes within these shores. Some sale yards played host to several of these, including 500 Hereford-Friesian and AngusFriesian at Taupō, which were offered in unit-load lots at the conclusion of the monthly sale. Cull dairy cow volume is always high at this time of year but has been exaggerated as dairy cows and heifers find themselves on trucks bound for the yards rather than directly to the processors as long wait times still impact on the ability to offload. At Temuka supply lifted to 900, the highest tally since 2017, but despite the influx, added competition from buyers looking for grazing cows meant the market held. Masterton rounded out the incalf beef cow season with a 750-

ALL EYES ON THE PENS: PGG Wrightson agents Rihi Brown, Andrew McKay and Brian Diamond sell a line of Hereford cows that were part of a 250-head consignment from Martinborough. Photo: Elvis Jennings, PGG Wrightson

head yarding and PGG Wrightson regional livestock manager Steve Wilkinson said throughput was up on recent years for several reasons. “While it was great to offer such a high quality yarding in good volume to buyers, we hope that

we wouldn’t see anything like it again in the next 10 years as farm sales to forestry have pushed some of these cattle in, including 250 capital stock Hereford from Martinborough.” Wilkinson said the sale exceeded expectations and while

the older end of the cow market was underpinned by processors, very few headed in that direction, with the majority set to be calved down. Feilding also finally finished the weaner fair season with a yarding of over 2000, mainly out of the later country around Taihape. Tallies were higher than usual due to big offloads from a handful of properties. In contrast, store lamb tallies are normal for the time of year as volume starts to lift in preparation for winter. Temperatures around the country have been relatively mild to date – both day and night – but the first real cold snap is about to creep up the country and will likely indicate that winter is setting in. Temuka offered up nearly 9000 recently and Feilding and Stortford Lodge continue to pen consistent week-on-week throughput of 12,000-16,000 and 7000-8000 respectively. Matawhero tallies were up to 5000-head at a recent sale.

A group of farmers telling the bank where to go! Our Client Councils keep us in touch with the issues that matter Rabobank New Zealand’s Client Councils were set up to bring farmers together. That’s exactly what they do. They include some of our leading clients, so we listen to what they say. Helping us to advance farming and support rural communities, our Client Councils are focused squarely on the issues facing the food and agribusiness sector. Learn more about our Client Councils at Rabobank.co.nz/client-councils/ or scan the QR code

RAB0131 Client C 28-4-22 RAB0110/Rabo Friend21-3-22