Farmers Weekly NZ January 31 2022 by AgriHQ

Vol 20 No 3, January 31, 2022

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Sector welcomes critical status isolation period of up to 24 days does not have to happen,” Hoggard said. He said the definition of what constituted a critical worker appeared to have taken time to develop, despite Omicron having been known about for some time. DCANZ chief executive Kimberly Crewther said the dairy industry has been told by government it would work with the sector over coming weeks as the ‘test to return’ system is established. “Our expectation is that dairy processing companies will be able to use that system. It’s important for ongoing operations and if we can’t continue to operate it, it’s not a simple thing because milk doesn’t stop,” Crewther said.

Richard Rennie

richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz

RIMARY sector officials are scrambling to ensure critical worker status is granted to staff and with it access to rapid antigen tests (RATs), after initial guidelines sowed doubt. Initial announcements from the Prime Minister, director of health and associate health minister had industry officials uncertain of the sector’s worker status, with the critical worker title being applied to utility staff, health care workers and food supply chain staff. Horticulture NZ had also expressed concern that the definition of critical worker was weighted towards those in the domestic food supply chain only. Under the first lockdown two years ago, all primary sector workers were deemed essential and able to continue working throughout the period. But Ministry for Primary Industry (MPI) director Ray Smith confirmed to Farmers Weekly that discussions with the sector’s largest industry groups has included measures to ensure there are enough workers available to support critical supply chains. The Government has also established a critical workforce register and stated that critical workers include food supply and infrastructure. A recently released flow chart identifies a critical business as one involved in “food production, distribution and sale”. The register will be a first step to allocating the RATs to be allocated to those critical workers. These will enable them to shorten

their time off work in event of coming into contact with the disease, isolating them for only seven days. Smith said MPI has discussed preregistering some of the sector’s key companies on the register. It intends to work closely with industry leaders over the coming days to have more staff registered, prior to the wider register officially opening in a fortnight. In the early stages of the country’s Omicron outbreak the primary sector has already felt the impact of the Government’s controversial decision to requisition imported RATs for distribution. A number of Meat Industry Association (MIA) processing members had already invested in

RATs, only to learn they will not be receiving the volumes ordered as a result of the Government move. The meat industry overseas has reported absenteeism rates of 30-40% and such levels here would almost shut down a sector already hundreds of workers short nationally. “As New Zealand’s largest manufacturing industry, our focus is now on ensuring our sector has the necessary volumes of tests from the Government or thirdparty suppliers to ensure our people can safely return to work at the earliest opportunity,” MIA chief executive Sirma Karapeeva said. “This is critical so we can keep our supply chain open and

continue processing food for New Zealand and our global markets.” She said MPI has also confirmed the industry’s workers are classified as critical. But while processors look secure in acquiring RAT access, discussions are still underway on how the country’s 30,000 farming operations will be categorised. Federated Farmers president Andrew Hoggard said after meeting with MPI officials there was a sense RATs may be more suitable and committed to the processing/harvesting sector, while worker isolation and bubbles may be a better approach to manage farm outbreaks. “We want to work through with MPI on some simpler way to ensure the potential ridiculous

We want to work through with MPI on some simpler way to ensure the potential ridiculous isolation period of up to 24 days does not have to happen. Andrew Hoggard Federated Farmers Horticulture NZ officials have also been stressing to government the impending crop harvests due in coming weeks as record volumes of grapes, apples, pears and kiwifruit ripen. Seeka chief executive Michael Franks said based on his company’s Australian experience on its Victoria orchards, it could expect 20-30% absenteeism based on a seven-day isolation period.

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NEWS

15 Entries open for national art award

Kiwi creatives are being urged to put their inspiring art forward for the Fieldays No.8 Wire National Art Award.

REGULARS Newsmaker �� 18 New Thinking �� 19

9 Tongan workers face tough choices

Editorial �� 20

Hawke’s Bay orchardist Mark Vesty appreciates more than most the human impact the Tongan eruption has taken upon the nation’s people.

Pulpit �� 21 Opinion �� 22 Real Estate �� 24-31 Tech and Toys �� 32 Employment �� 33 Classifieds �� 33-34 Livestock �� 34-35 Weather �� 37 Markets �� 36-40

5 Overseer chief executive resigns 19 Production by numbers Dr Caroline Read has resigned as chief executive of Overseer after eight years.

An AgResearch team is using methylomes for aging that may help with identifying animals’ productive rates.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 31, 2022

Milk price forecast continues to rise Gerald Piddock gerald.piddock@globalhq.co.nz INSATIABLE demand for dairy at a time of limited supply has seen Fonterra raise its milk price forecast by 50 cents to $8.90$9.50/kg milksolids – a new record for the cooperative. The increase from $8.40-$9/ kg MS sets a new midpoint of the range, which farmers are paid to $9.20/kg MS. Fonterra chief executive Miles Hurrell said the new midpoint would contribute $13.8 billion to the New Zealand economy this season and was good news for both farmers and NZ communities. “The increase is the result of consistent demand for dairy at a time of constrained global milk supply,” Hurrell said. “In general, demand globally remains strong, although we are seeing this vary across our geographic spread. Overall, global milk supply growth is forecast to track below average levels, with European milk production growth down on last year and US milk growth slowing due to high feed costs.” The situation was similar in NZ, with the cooperative reducing its milk collection forecast for this season from 1525 million kg MS to 1500 million kg MS because of

varied weather and challenging growing conditions, he said. “While the higher forecast farm gate milk price does put pressure on our margins in our consumer and foodservice businesses, prices in our ingredients business are favourable for milk price and earnings at this stage. As a result, we remain comfortable with our current 2021-22 earnings guidance of 25-35 cents per share.”

BOOST: Fonterra chief executive Miles Hurrell said that the new midpoint would contribute $13.8 billion to the New Zealand economy this season.

It’s really positive news, but I think we should also be aware of the significant increase in costs that have gone on. Tim Mackle DairyNZ He said the cooperative is keeping a close eye on growing inflationary pressures impacting on operational costs, the increased potential for volatility as a result of high dairy prices and economic disruptions from covid-19, particularly as governments respond to the rapid spread of the Omicron variant.

BALANCING OUT: Tim Mackle says although farmers will be happy with a higher milk price, that will be tempered by rising costs.

DairyNZ chief executive Tim Mackle said while the news would be welcomed by farmers, rising costs would have taken some of the shine off the record payout. “Farmers are dealing with much higher costs. Inflation has gone up significantly and I would say it has outstripped the CPI (consumer price index),” Mackle said. “It’s really positive news, but I think we should also be aware of the significant increase in costs that have gone on.” Mitigating those costs would be the challenge for farmers along with the multiple regulatory changes going on around the environment, he said. In November, Statistics NZ’s farm expense price index showed large inflation costs for farmers over the past two years. Four key farming costs have experienced inflation of more than 10% between 2019-21, including fertiliser with a 15.9% increase; cultivation, harvesting

and animal feed with an 18.9% increase; electricity with a 21% increase; and stock grazing costs which are 36.9% higher this year than they were in 2019. DairyNZ economist Dr Graeme Doole said shipping prices, on average, are around 600% higher than two years ago due to port delays and closures related to covid-19, and the prices of ocean freight out of Asia have grown substantially, increasing by 15 times between March and August last year. Urea prices alone have jumped by 67% since August 2020 due to greater global demand for nitrogen. FAO figures suggest nitrogen use has only increased by 1.33% since 2020, but higher seasonal demand, coupled with international supply issues, have pushed up urea prices globally. However, the higher prices would still have a positive effect in regional communities with

DairyNZ’s economist calculating it could contribute $47b to the country in the 2021-22 season. “That’s up from $37b in 202021,” Mackle said. Perrin Ag senior consultant Daniel Payton said it was good news for farmers as they farm through the summer dry. “This payout news means using supplementary feeds will become more cost effective as farmers take steps to survive the dry,” Payton said. He expected input costs to rise again, as suppliers make the most of a buoyant dairy market. “Everybody will be wanting a bite of the cherry,” he said. He encouraged farmers to keep unnecessary spending in check. “In order to reap the benefits of a high payout, it is more important than ever to remain disciplined. Resist the temptation to buy the ‘wants’ and instead ensure the business remains focused on the ‘needs’,” he said.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 31, 2022

Wool body to take industry forward Annette Scott annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz WOOL Impact New Zealand will be the new service delivery model to drive NZ’s strong wool sector growth. The new entity, the result of the Strong Wool Action Group’s (SWAG) 16-month project to devise a plan to lift the strong wool sector out of the doldrums, will kick-off in July. Wool Impact NZ’s purpose is to facilitate innovation, support demand growth and enable a unified voice for strong wool in NZ to grow existing and generate new demand for strong wool consumer brands, products and services. Essentially it will be for a threeyear period as the catalyst to work with consumer-based projects to bring to life the work identified by SWAG, which ended its tenure on December 31. SWAG chair Rob Hewett says the consumer-driven demand for natural and environmentally sustainable materials is a significant opportunity for the NZ strong wool sector. He said the view is that NZ will run out of strong wool in five to seven years because of the proposed success of the new strong wool model. Wool Impact’s core function is service delivery and its ability to engage with, and support others, will be critical. “While the purpose and functions of Wool Impact are important, success will only come through effective connection across the strong wool industry ecosystem,” Hewett said. Wool Impact will work alongside existing and new commercial partners to establish a wool fibre incubator and accelerator programme to deliver services facilitating innovation, support demand growth for commercial strong wool success and enable a NZ strong wool voice. “There’s industry organisations out there doing some good stuff and this is about bringing

the industry together in a complementary way, the bottom line being a unified voice and I’m confident that will happen,” he said. “It’s not about a takeover, it’s a merger of interests added together under one umbrella to turbo-charge what Wool Impact will deliver.” Wool Impact will begin as an industry-government funded entity, transitioning to a sheeprelated industry-woolgrower funded partnership once established.

It’s a merger of interests added together under one umbrella to turbo-charge what Wool Impact will deliver. Rob Hewett Wool Impact NZ “It will be the glue on key issues incorporating diversity and independence in governance and a strong voice across key issues such as training, standards, innovation and funding,” he said. The new entity will not sell wool or wool product and it will not be contained within any existing commercial company, nor competitive with commercial value chains. It will not be a farmer or industry entity nor a representative body or federation. “The key will be a unified voice around a strong wool industry,” he said. “Wool Impact will provide the core sector services that enable the strong wool sector to be match fit and better equipped to pursue the market-led future. “We are not an industry body, we are a catalyst. “We are not in for a long time, we are in for a good time.”

Minister backs call to unite sector MINISTER for Primary Industries Damien O’Connor described the Wool Impact report as a “good solid report”. “It’s not rocket science, it’s predictable but it does lay down clearly the pathway forward,” O’Connor said. He said coordination among existing industry players is essential, supported by some kind of levy income for an organisation that is going to be focused on areas identified in the report. “It is essential that industry good activity is recommenced and driven by some independent but committed people and that available government funding will go into projects that have widespread support of this (Wool Impact NZ) organisation and industry players,” he said. “At the start of this process my view was we can do no harm, we have committed quite an amount of taxpayer money and we have some clear guidelines for progress. “It’s now up to all industry bodies and stakeholders in the wool sector to make it work. “This should have all happened from an industry that had a vision, the absence of action has been caused by many different factors and it’s of little use litigating those issues. “It’s now time to move forward with more unity than we have seen for decades that will deliver the progress and confidence we need.”

OBJECTIVE: SWAG chair Rob Hewett says Wool Impact NZ will not be a mash-up of industry representatives, but a newly constituted entity with its own clear purpose. The annual budget for Wool Impact NZ is forecast at $3.8 million a year for three years. Wool Impact will pursue three years of project-transitional funding through the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures (SFFF) programme. Over the three-year transitional period government funding is expected to come in at 40% of the $3.8m with industry, meat processors and other commercial participants filling the remaining 60% funding. “We are currently going around the meat industry and have confirmation from a big portion of the big five processors who have agreed to a three-year commitment,” he said. Several industry organisations are also committed, with farmers the next target. Woolgrower funding is not part of the initial budget, but will be

sought as part of a transition to a sustainable model. “The revenue that is deficient at the moment is farmers, but we are of the view farmers need to see it’s working before they put their hand in their pocket as we work through a three-year phased transition from Crown support to a self-funding model,” he said. “We expect by the end of year two farmers will see the value proposition is so compelling and see the logic to invest.” Over the coming months a skills-based board of five to six members, including an independent chair, will be appointed. He said Wool Impact will not be a mash-up of industry representatives, but a newly constituted entity with its own clear purpose. “We will be recruiting a skillsbased mix of directors that can

support achievement of Wool Impact’s vision, purpose and functions,” he said. “This does not mean that engagement with industry participants is not important – deep and consistent industry engagement will be critical to ensure Wool Impact’s services and activity meet industry needs and to support operational delivery and the organisational culture to underpin this.” Wool Impact’s operational delivery will be guided by a small executive management team of three to four people who will scope and coordinate service delivery. A residual group of SWAG, including Hewett, Dave Ferrier, Tom O’Sullivan and John Rodwell, together with chief executive Andy Caughey, will govern the transition period with Wool Impact NZ scheduled to be officially operational on July 1.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 31, 2022

Emissions roadshow going ahead Colin Williscroft colin.williscroft@globalhq.co.nz THE He Waka Eke Noa roadshow planned to run throughout February will continue under the covid red traffic light setting, but it’s likely to have a delayed start, with dates and times of events rescheduled to minimise the amount of contact between those attending. There will also be more online meetings than were originally planned.

Farmers need to be able to ask questions and have multiple ways of providing feedback. Sam McIvor B+LNZ

Beef + Lamb NZ chief executive Sam McIvor says it’s important B+LNZ, DairyNZ and Federated Farmers engage with farmers to get their feedback on options for pricing agriculture emissions as alternatives to the Emissions Trading Scheme. “We believe effective consultation on such a complex topic can only be done face-toface. Farmers need to be able to ask questions and have multiple ways of providing feedback,” McIvor said. “We’ve gone through all the options for the roadshow and our modified approach balances minimising risks to all participants with the complicated logistics while facing many uncertainties. “We’ll continue to monitor the situation and will move more events online if required. “Because of the need to change our approach, we’re investigating an extension to timelines. This will allow us to properly engage during

FEEDBACK: Sam McIvor says it’s important farmers have their say on the options for pricing agricultural emissions. this complex period and fully consider farmer feedback from the consultation into the report on the preferred He Waka Eke Noa option.” It’s hoped an updated roadshow calendar will be released in the next few days. Farmers will be able to see the updated schedule at dairynz.co.nz/HWEN or beeflambnz.com

Farmers who have already registered for roadshow events will be contacted once alternative arrangements have been confirmed. An updated farmer engagement document, along with other related documents, will be released on January 31 to ensure farmers have access to the most up-to-date information possible

before the roadshow starts. The He Waka Eke Noa partnership needs to report back to the Government by April on its preferred emissions pricing option. By the end of 2022, the climate change and agriculture ministers must put forward a report outlining the system that will price agricultural emissions.

Overseer chief executive resigns DR CAROLINE Read has resigned as chief executive of Overseer after eight years. She is taking up the same position at FishServe. Read joined Overseer as general manager in 2013 and was appointed chief executive in April 2016. “Caroline has been instrumental in the establishment of Overseer Limited and the development of OverseerFM as a farm planning and management tool to help farmers and growers make better decisions to improve their farm’s environmental sustainability and productivity,” board chair Ian Clarke said. “Having built a high-performing team around her, she has also been a driving force behind the ongoing development

NEW JOB: Dr Caroline Read is headed to FishServe after nearly a decade at OverseerFM.

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and continuous improvement of OverseerFM. She leaves with our best wishes and we congratulate Caroline on her new role.” The board has initiated a search process for her replacement.

She leaves with our best wishes and we congratulate Caroline on her new role. Ian Clarke OverseerFM

I perform at my best when I build rest and recovery into my daily schedule. Sam Whitelock Farmstrong Ambassador

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 31, 2022

Reach out for a helping hand The upheaval caused by two earthquakes and the end of a relationship left north Canterbury sheep and beef farmer Kara Lynn in a tough spot. Farmstrong helped her through. KARA Lynn grew up on the outskirts of Rangiora but always loved the country and wanted to go farming. “When I was 14, my friend and I would spend hours going through that classic book High Country Sheep Station,” Lynn said. She ended up farming in Tinline Downs, Waiau, which she affectionately refers to as ‘Tumbling Downs’ after the earthquakes, looking after 4000 stock units. But a few years ago, that dream lifestyle fell apart. “After the earthquakes (2016) and the end of my marriage, I was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and hardly left the farm, saw a friend or went out. I was stressed out, not sleeping or eating well, isolated from friends and suddenly running a major farming operation singlehandedly, as well as raising three kids,” she said. Today, she’s a different person. Loving her farming, relishing life. “I made it through because I’ve had a lot of support. So, the first thing is to ask for help. Everyone has issues in life. Farm life is not always going to be this picture postcard, Country Calendar lifestyle. Shit’s going to happen and to deal with that you need a network of supportive people. People who understand you and are in your corner,” she said. “When you’re feeling down it’s easy to think, ‘This stuff only happens to me and I’m a loser’, and isolate yourself from your community. This is very common in country areas. People are reluctant to ask for help and battle on alone. But you must remember no one else can fix you, but you. “I ran across a Farmstrong workshop in the Greta Valley that really sparked my interest. It taught me that when setbacks happen, you have a choice about how you react to them. There are things you can still control that will make you more resilient and bring you happiness. As a farmer you can’t control the weather, the stock prices or if your hill or house comes down in an earthquake, but as long as you have your health and good people around

you, you can do anything and the world is still your oyster. That’s a very helpful mindset when you’re farming.” She says being farm-strong is about realising you’re always going to have the odd bad day on-farm, but the sun’s still going to rise the next day. “There’s always going to be a fence to fix, a drain to unblock, the spouting falling off your woolshed or sheep escaping. That’s just farming,” she said. Lynn says to kick-start her healing process, she needed to prioritise her health. “I started swimming at Hanmer pool. It was 45 minutes away and felt like a sanctuary for me. By exercising regularly, I was getting all these endorphins that boost your mood,” she said.

As a farmer you can’t control the weather, the stock prices or if your hill or house comes down in an earthquake, but as long as you have your health and good people around you, you can do anything. Kara Lynn Farmer “The water itself was also healing and therapeutic. So, swimming not only improved my mental state, but it also got me off the farm. Being farm-strong means asking, ‘What do I need to do today to look after myself?’ Having a plan to get out in the world, rather than shutting yourself away and hiding.” She says it’s also important to live in the moment and be grateful. “Being present and in the moment was a huge part of my recovery. For many years I would block out how I felt. I just went through the motions and told

myself everything was fine, when it wasn’t. Now I try to do something every day that’s going to give me that buzz. I make time just for me. Whether it’s going for a walk or a swim or doing something together as a family like mustering,” she said. “This morning for instance I thought, ‘It’s a beautiful morning’, so I made a conscious decision to go outside, look at the sunrise, check the cows in the paddock, watch the storm coming up the valley and just listen to the birdsong for a few minutes. Being present is about enjoying that and looking at your farm and going ‘Shit, it’s amazing’. We should all do that, but many farmers don’t.” Lynn also emphasised the importance of taking breaks and getting enough sleep. “I make a conscious effort to get off-farm. A lot of my friends hardly saw me for five years. I didn’t see a movie or go out for three years. A friend said to me the other day, ‘It’s like the old Kara’s back. I can see that you have this energy about you which you didn’t have’. Getting off-farm regularly to recharge is a big part of that. You need to find your tribe and have like-minded people around you,” she said. “Sleep was a problem for me. If you’re in good shape mentally and out doing physical work on the farm all day, by 10.30pm you’re knackered and ready for bed. But if you’re worried all the time, sitting watching TV or scrolling endlessly on your phone thinking ‘My life sucks’, you’re not going to sleep well. And you can’t function properly without sleep. “I also did some research and found that sometimes we wake up at night because we are thirsty or hungry. So now I have water beside my bed and finish screen time an hour before bed. I’ll read a book or have a bath and get my body ready to sleep.” Lynn also appreciates Farmstrong’s emphasis on selfcare as part of your business and managing your workload. “Let’s face it, many farmers are hopeless at looking after themselves and it makes no sense at all, because if we’re not

ISOLATED: After the 2016 earthquakes and the end of her marriage, Kara Lynn started to live her life in isolation, until she decided to ask for help.

functioning, our farms aren’t going to be functioning, our animals won’t do well, nothing is going to go right. You’re also not going to have staff work for you if you are grumpy through lack of sleep and throwing your toys out of the cot,” she said. “Nowadays, I make time to explore these ideas even when I’m busy, because I always pick up something that’s useful for my farming. “What I’ve found helpful is having a plan on a Monday morning for what needs achieving in a week. There are the urgent jobs and there are the not-sourgent jobs. Making those lists and doing that planning hands you back control, makes you more focused and relieves stress. If you just turn up every Monday and try to do everything at once, you’re just putting yourself under the pump.” Another lesson Lynn learnt is that one has to be patient and make the most of each day. “The thing with instituting changes like this in your life is to

give yourself time. It’s not about being perfect, it’s a journey – you have to cut yourself some slack and think, ‘Okay I got that wrong, but I’ve asked for help and I’m doing something about it’. “The biggest insight is that there’s no need to go it alone. There’s help out there. Farmstrong gives you the tools to work your way through these challenges,” she said. “I’ve got no idea what lies ahead in a month or a year’s time. I could still be sitting here rocking in the corner thinking ‘Oh my god, what’s going to happen?’, but instead my attitude is that I’m going to enjoy today. I have the tools to get through and enjoy those memories. We get one life, and one shot at it, so make the most of it.”

Farmstrong is an award-winning rural wellbeing programme that helps farmers and farming families live well to farm well. To find out what works for you and ‘lock it in’, check out our farmer-to-farmer videos, stories and tips on www.farmstrong.co.nz

Northland extension programme has strong finish Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz

LEARNING: Extension 350 farmers on a site visit to a R1 bull farm.

AT THE beginning of its final year of six, Northland’s pioneering Extension 350 programme has weathered covid-19 disruption and exceeded original targets. E350 project lead Luke Beehre said the peak participation of 379 farmers was fantastic given the turbulence of the past year. The last of the sheep and beef clusters finished at the end of 2021 and three remaining

dairy clusters will finish in June. Tangible change has resulted in the Northland farming community and thorough and accurate reporting of the outcomes is now the focus of additional Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures funding. “It’s been something of a rollercoaster year for the programme as we navigated alert level changes and climatic challenges,” Beehre said. “However, E350’s relevance and applicability have been further reinforced with our farmer-led and farmer-focused

approach. “We’ve seen remarkable change to the farming landscape during the project tenure to date. “Despite at times being fatigued and knee-deep in mud through the challenges faced, farmers are remarkably optimistic and continue to look towards the future with hope and expectation. “It’s this tenacity which has allowed the E350 project to continue making positive gains within the Northland farming community.”

Agriculture emissions pricing roadshow To find out more about the 2025 agriculture emissions pricing options that have been developed by the He Waka Eke Noa partnership and to have your say, head along to a DairyNZ, B+LNZ and Federated Farmers roadshow near you in February. Registration is essential. Visit beeflambnz.com or dairynz.co.nz Why are we doing this? • In 2019, following passage of the Zero Carbon Act the Government proposed bringing agriculture into the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS). The agricultural sector, working together, convinced them not to do this and to work with the sector and iwi on an alternative approach for managing our emissions – through the He Waka Eke Noa partnership – with a view to introducing an alternative approach in 2025. • It’s important we put forward a viable alternative under He Waka Eke Noa, otherwise the Government will bring agriculture into the ETS and we will lose the split gas outcome we achieved in the Zero Carbon Act. • The partnership needs to provide advice to the Government by the end of April 2022 on an alternative framework to the ETS. Multiple approaches have been considered and the He Waka Eke Noa partners are now consulting on two alternative options. • B+LNZ acknowledges the options are not perfect but we believe the alternatives have advantages over the ETS for sheep, beef and dairy farmers, allowing you to influence change. They’re a starting point that will evolve as science, measurement and technology allow more accurate recognition of what’s happening on individual farms.

How to have your say Attend a roadshow event near you or a webinar or Fill out the online feedback form – you can access it via the B+LNZ or DairyNZ website

What happens next • The He Waka Eke Noa partners will consider the feedback received and provide final advice to the Government in April. • Farmers will likely get another opportunity to provide feedback on pricing as part of further consultation before the final framework is put in place in 2025. Let’s work together to find the right solution.

• Note that B+LNZ doesn’t agree with the methane reduction targets in the Zero Carbon Act and we’re working to get these changed through a separate process.

www.beeflambnz.com | 0800 BEEF LAMB (0800 233 352) | BY FARMERS. FOR FARMERS

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 31, 2022

Tongan workers face tough choices Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz HAWKE’S Bay orchardist Mark Vesty appreciates more than most the human impact the Tongan eruption has taken upon the nation’s people. His ties to the island nation are strong, particularly to the tiny outlying island of Atatā, the nearest inhabited island to the volcano. Some of his workers have been coming from there to work on the family’s orchard for the past 15 years. Overall, Tongan workers account for about 1000 of the 12,000 RSE workers coming to New Zealand every year. Royal NZ Air Force (RNZAF) surveillance photos of the flower and stem shaped Atatā atoll are captioned in bleakly clinical style by RNZAF staff, categorising it as “catastrophic” damage. Only a church remains standing of its 70 buildings.

We have had a volcano, a tsunami, and it is still cyclone season. We can only hope these things don’t come in threes. Sefita Hao’uli NZ RSE liaison manager “We have 12 workers from there who have been stuck here in New Zealand for the past two years unable to get home, and had another three coming over in February, but that will be quite uncertain now. Every day is a new day when it comes to RSE nowadays,” Vesty said. Because the island is so close to the volcano, Tongan authorities are undertaking to permanently

IMPACT: Hawke’s Bay orchardist Mark Vesty says the ripple effects of the pandemic and now the recent earthquake and tsunami means that Tongan RSE workers on and offshore continue to face uncertainty. Photo: John Cowpland/Alphapix

relocate Atatā’s 30 families. He said the workers here in NZ, and those intending to come here, face a terrible quandary for their future. Those here know that they don’t have a home to return to on the atoll and will need to try and start a new life, while those who were intending to come down to earn valuable income have no way of doing so at present. “They have had videos sent and have now been in contact with families up there, and it is at least as bad as they thought, maybe worse,” he said. With the summerfruit harvest just completed, and three weeks until the apple harvest begins, Vesty said he had been hoping the workers could finally return home by late May. Like many orchardists he has built strong ties with the islanders, often visiting them during the quiet period here. “And it is even tougher because

they also lost the main employer on their island, the local resort,” he said. The Royal Sunset Island resort has been wiped out, along with most of the island’s other structures. The devastation from the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai eruption also comes on the heels of Cyclone Harold that inflicted US$100million worth of damage on the kingdom in April 2020. Vesty was personally funding supplies being put together to send up to Tonga, including dry food items and medical packs, while Watties has also donated canned goods. While his primary concern was the welfare of his staff, he said the event had only added greater uncertainty to the supply of RSE workers, with the impending harvest looking like it may break all records for size, and staff in diabolically short supply. Sefita Hao’uli, the NZ RSE liaison

manager and a Tongan himself, said 700-800 Tongan workers have been in NZ long-term. Seventy had been intending to return home this month until the eruption cancelled all commercial flights to the kingdom. “We have had a volcano, a tsunami, and it is still cyclone season. We can only hope these things don’t come in threes,” Hao’uli said. He said relocating families was not a simple task, with the main island of Tongatapu already under population pressure. “For some, it may pay for them to remain in NZ as hard as that is with what has happened at home. But for many from the islands of Mango and Atatā, they may prefer to be back home to sort out their new life,” he said. So far 16 containers containing food and supplies have been donated in Auckland, while Katikati kiwifruit growers have put together a container, and growers

in Hawke’s Bay are doing the same. About 400 Tongan RSE workers were due to arrive in February, but there are logistical difficulties now in liaising with them scattered across the island group with communications damaged. “We are hoping those numbers can be maintained but because of what has happened, some may need to remain at home, but others may come for six months here,” he said. While the airport is now open for relief flights, there is no sign yet of when commercial arrivals and departures can commence. The kingdom’s strict controls over covid-19 may also complicate RSE returns and requirements. “A relief flight from Australia that had some unvaccinated people on board was required to turn around,” he said. He is, however, heartened by Immigration NZ extending visas to workers stuck here and was confident this would continue.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 31, 2022

New lending rules could benefit sector Nigel Stirling nigel.stirling@globalhq.co.nz NEW lending rules wreaking havoc on residential borrowers have not had any noticeable impact on farm lending and could even spur the banks to look favourably again at the sector after a lean couple of years. Since the start of December, banks have been applying extra scrutiny to loan applications in response to legislation designed to protect borrowers from saddling themselves with unaffordable levels of debt. While the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act had seemingly been motivated by a desire to crack down on loan

If the banks cannot get money out the door in one area, they are going to be looking for more opportunities to lend [elsewhere] and there are a few things helping them with that at the moment. Scott Wishart NZ Agri Brokers sharks, it has ended up capturing a far larger share of the market than ever intended. Bankers are being extra cautious under pains of fines of up to $200,000 if they are found to have failed to follow the letter of the new law when assessing loan applications. “The banks are erring on the

side of caution because nobody wants to be the first cab off the rank in a lawsuit,” KPMG bank audit partner John Kensington said. Kensington had been told by one banker that at his own bank loan approvals had fallen by a quarter since the beginning of December when the legislation came into force. However, the new rules show no signs of hitting rural lending, according to the Real Estate Institute’s rural spokesperson Brian Peacocke. He’d completed farm sales in the lead-up to Christmas and had been marketing properties since early in January where he was having a lot of conversations with purchasers. “Whether the holiday period means they have not caught up with such issues I do not know, but if they were in the market for lending they would have been talking to banks I would have thought … but at the moment it is not an issue,” Peacocke said. The managing director debt of NZ Agri Brokers Scott Wishart said the ups and downs of farm incomes and a comparatively smaller pool of buyers for the underlying asset should the borrower get into trouble meant banks demanded a wider range of information to support loan applications from farmers. By comparison, decisions to lend on houses had been made based on a much more limited set of measures. “Rural lending has been assessed that way for nearly three decades … you had to provide profit and loss statements and balance sheets and budgets to access debt,” Wishart said. “That is something you have never had to provide as a borrower

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SO FAR, SO GOOD: Real Estate Institute spokesperson Brian Peacocke says the new lending rules show no signs of hitting rural lending.

for a (housing) mortgage.” “For retail borrowers it is (now) about doing away with the general rules and specifically looking at every borrower to make sure their own situation fits the bill.” Rather than creating the conditions for a rural credit crunch, Wishart said the new legislation could be supportive of more lending flowing to the sector after a lean couple of years when the main trading banks had encouraged farmers to reduce debt. “If the banks cannot get money out the door in one area, they are going to be looking for more opportunities to lend (elsewhere) and there are a few things helping

them with that at the moment,” he said. “Obviously high commodity prices and significant amortisation (of debt) over the past 2-3 years is giving them a few tailwinds to invest more in agriculture without really increasing the portfolio risk a whole lot.” He said where farmers might expect greater scrutiny was in borrowing to fund off-farm investments. Wishart had already heard of one case where a farm succession had been disrupted by the new legislation. “Part of that plan required borrowing against the farm to

buy a small lifestyle block in the nearest town for Mum and Dad to move into,” he said. “That got caught up … because what salary do Mum and Dad have? “And what was their personal expense history … well, the farm had paid for everything.” He said the loan for the parents’ new house had been turned down because they were not able to provide history of their spending habits to the bank. “All the boxes they had to fill out they just couldn’t provide. “Previously the banker would have approved the debt as a housing loan and everyone would have moved on.”

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 31, 2022

Calls to licence stock agents Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz ONE of the country’s largest stock and station firms believes all agents should be licenced to provide some protection against illegal activity as livestock values soar. Rural Livestock director John Faulks and manager Jesse Dargue say given the increasing value of livestock and the size of transactions processed, farmer clients and companies need certainty and confidence these deals are handled correctly and ethically. Faulks said unlike the finance, insurance and real estate sectors where participants must be licenced, currently anyone can become a stock agent and handle transactions worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. “Anybody can enter the stock and station industry,” Faulks said. “All they need is a phone, a car and a bank account.” Introducing a licensing system for all agents could provide greater assurance and certainty. Faulks has a background in banking and real estate, but says focusing on the future of the stock and station industry is driving his view that agents need to retain

I’m not saying there are lots of bad people, but there are large numbers of stock traded and large volumes of money involved, which can attract people who see the opportunity to thwart the system. John Faulks Rural Livestock ASSURANCE: Rural Livestock director John Faulks and manager Jesse Dargue say a stock agent licensing system could provide greater assurance and certainty for farmers. their integrity and social licence to act on behalf of farmer clients. He acknowledged very few current agents acted unethically, but his concern is that as the amount of money involved from livestock transactions increases, it could attract people who are less ethical. “I’m not saying there are lots of bad people, but there are large numbers of stock traded and large

volumes of money involved, which can attract people who see the opportunity to thwart the system,” he said. Dargue said a licensing system needs to be effective, workable and affordable and not simply add administration costs onto farmers. Membership of the NZ Stock and Station Agents Association is voluntary and it tends to represent large firms, he said.

Industry regulation is currently via the Fair Trading Act, the Consumers Guarantee Act and the Auctioneers Act rather than standalone legislation. He says his suggestion reflects a maturing of the industry, but it needs to be proactive and begin a discussion before regulation is imposed. “Someone will do it, (someone) who has no understanding of

the industry,” he said. “What we need to have in place will allow good, open trading and will attract good people to the industry.” He accepts regulation is not the total answer to unethical behaviour. “Regulation is not going to stop bad behaviour, but licensing or regulation will keep the standard of personnel in the industry at a better level from the start.”

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 31, 2022

Shearing marathon for southern charity Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz UP TO 10,000 lambs will shorn over 32 hours in a West Otago woolshed next week, raising money for the Southland Charity Hospital. Four southern shearers Eru Weeds, Cole Wells, David Gower and Braden Clifford will each shear for 24 hours over a 32-hour period, including breaks, while 21 other shearers will share runs of between two and eight hours on the remaining three stands. Event manager Jared Manihera, from PGG Wrightson Wool, says the shearathon starts at 6am on Saturday, February 5 and will finish at 2pm the next day. It will be split over 12 two-hour runs, with either 30-minute or one-hour breaks. Nelson and Fiona Hancox will supply the stock, which will be shorn on their Wohelo Station property at Moa Flat. The four aiming to complete the long haul have been preparing by following strict diets and fitness regimes.

TEAM EFFORT: Twenty-five shearers will participate in a 32-hour shearathon for charity, with four aiming to each shear for 24 hours.

“The hardest time will be midnight when their bodies will want to give up, but the minds will need to take over to keep them going,” Manihera said. Due a tightening in covid restrictions, the event will not be open to the public, with a limit of 100 volunteers and workers who must have a vaccine pass. The event will be livestreamed at livestream.com/accounts72885/ shear4blair Manihera says the 24-hour shearers will be shearing replacement ewe lambs without belly wool, while the others will

tackle a combination of full shear wethers and fully crutched ewe lambs without bellies. He estimates that potentially $100,000 could be raised based on the product and cash donated so far. The final total depends on the final number of lambs shorn. The Southland charity was established in Invercargill in 2019, a legacy of local farmer and cancer victim Blair Vining who, frustrated at the poor cancer treatment for regional people, devoted his last few months of life to improving services.

Rua expands reach across the Tasman Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz SHAREHOLDERS of the listed medicinal cannabis company Rua Bioscience have given the go-ahead to a $10 million purchase of Zalm Therapeutics to build a market position more quickly for Rua. Zalm has a long-term supply agreement with Cann Group, one of Australasia’s largest GMPcompliant medicinal cannabis plant breeding, cultivation, production and manufacturing companies. Zalm is majority owned by chief executive Michael Wilding, chair Rob Fyfe, director Jonty Edgar and Australian-listed Cann Group. It is commissioning an indoor growing facility in Mildura, Victoria, for approximately 12.5 tonnes of annual dried flower capacity, making it one of the largest producers in the southern hemisphere. The purchase will be funded by the issue of 24.4 million Rua shares at approximately 41c each, one-third immediately

and the other two-thirds on achievement of earn-out milestones covering production and regulation. Zalm’s former owners would then account for about 15% of Rua’s shareholdings, having an incentive for success. Rua chief executive Rob Mitchell said the approval vote would be transformative for the East Coast, Māori-directed company. “Between Rua’s unique kaupapa, expertise and innovation and Zalm’s globalscale GMP capability and experienced distribution partners, we have the potential to create a powerful global brand faster,” Mitchell said. Rua’s directors say the company will develop its product range more quickly, which will allow faster access into global markets and generate more revenue sooner in a way that is both capital efficient and cost effective. Rua listed in late 2020 at 70c and the share price spent most of last year around 40c, but it has risen recently above 50c.

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 31, 2022

A2 Milk speculation abounds Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz CONTRADICTORY speculations about a2 Milk Company (ATM) have caused more sharp movements in its share price a month ahead of its interim results presentation in late February for the 2022 financial year. An Australian newspaper report of a rumour that Canadian dairy giant Saputo might consider purchasing a2 Milk added 6% or 34c to the NZX share price.

All share price movements of recent weeks and months come into the category of bumping along the bottom since last May after the repeated disclosures of a2 Milk’s market problems. But that movement only recovered a 5% loss on news of a falling birth rate in China, and presumed decline in need for infant formula, published a few days earlier. Dairy industry analysts in

RIPPLE EFFECT: A newspaper report of a rumour that a Canadian dairy giant might consider purchasing a2 Milk added 6% to the NZX share price. Australia could think of no good reasons why Saputo, which already owns Murray Goulburn, would want to spend $4 billion or more on a2 Milk. All share price movements of recent weeks and months come into the category of bumping along the bottom since last May after the repeated disclosures of

a2 Milk’s market problems. In August 2020, the ATM share price peaked at $21.50 before the first of the company’s four earnings downgrades caused by covid-19 disruption to its principal daigou distribution channel into China. Daigou means NZ-made canned infant formula bought off

Commodity prices drive down farm sale numbers LANDOWNERS wanting to capitalise on high commodity prices are likely to be behind a drop of almost 50% in farm sales for the three months ended December than for the same period a year before, Real Estate Institute of NZ rural spokesperson Brian Peacocke says. REINZ data shows there were 293 farm sales for the three months, 256 fewer than the same three months in 2020, a fall of 46.6%. He says logic would suggest that due to the strong dairy payout forecast for the 2021-22 season, and strong prices for beef, lamb and horticultural products, fewer rural properties have been available for sale, as landowners retained properties to capitalise on current returns. “Nevertheless, the total volume of farm sales for the 2021 calendar year increased considerably from 2020, again reinforcing the strong demand for continuing investment in rural land, that in itself being a reflection of confidence in the agricultural sector,” Peacocke said. There were 1831 farms sold in the year to December 2021, 235 more than were sold in the year to December 2020, with 84% more dairy farms, 23.1% less dairy support, 7% more grazing farms, 10% more finishing farms and 14.7% less arable farms sold over the same period. There was a significant increase in the median price paid per hectare in the three months to December than the same period the year before, with the median for the three months in 2021 $37,980 compared to $27,320 in 2020, an increase of 39%. Despite the confidence in the farm sector and corresponding high demand, other factors are balancing that. “While the banking sector is currently more amenable to backing soundly structured lending

proposals, the inexorable grind of increasing costs, the shortage of quality labour and supply chain difficulties are well recognised constraints that continue to challenge the rural industry,” he said.

CASHING IN: REINZ rural spokesperson Brian Peacocke says some landowners are hanging on to their farms to take advantage of high commodity prices.

the shelves here and in Australia and couriered to China to fulfil private internet ordering. Not only did covid reduce the numbers of expatriate traders, but courier costs rose and price margins shrank, while Chinese authorities introduced import regulations aimed at boosting sales of local alternatives.

As highlighted in the blizzard of statistics ATM releases on reporting days, analysts and investors will expect some improvements in sales revenue and gross margins, but nothing like the heady days of runaway growth pre-covid. Its sales revenue dropped from $1.7b to $1.2b last financial year and the company says it will take five years to rebuild to $2b. It is ironic that ATM’s figures would be considered good for any other listed primary sector company, but not for the market darling in hard times. Which is why ATM hovers in the $5 range and hasn’t fallen into the $3-range like a2 base formula supplier and part subsidiary Synlait. Synlait has announced the effective appointments of founder John Penno moving from chief executive to chair of the board and of new chief executive Grant Watson, formerly of Miraka and Fonterra. Both began their new roles on January 24 and Synlait will report interim results in late March. When every other Australasian dairy company is cresting the wave of high world commodity prices, a2 Milk and Synlait are going to be late to the party.

Rabobank appoints new research lead RABOBANK has appointed Stefan Vogel to lead its food and agribusiness research division in New Zealand and Australia. Vogel takes on the role after more than seven years with Rabobank in London, where he held two concurrent global positions with the bank – head of agri commodity markets research and global grains and oilseeds sector strategist. Based in Sydney, Vogel will lead the NZ and Australian arm of the agribusiness bank’s highly-regarded global food and agricultural research division RaboResearch, which includes 10 analysts. Rabobank NZ chief executive Todd Charteris said Vogel brought a wealth of knowledge and experience in the global food and agricultural industries to his new role. “We’re very fortunate to have Stefan heading up our RaboResearch team as he brings with him an international perspective, as well as a proven track record of leading teams to deliver valuable, business-focused sector and commodity research for clients around the world,” Charteris said. “In his new role, Stefan will oversee the bank’s research agenda and support the RaboResearch team in New Zealand and Australia as they provide market-leading knowledge and insights to our

NEW GIG: Stefan Vogel will lead the New Zealand and Australian arm of the agribusiness bank’s global food and agricultural research division RaboResearch, which includes 10 analysts. rural and wholesale clients in the region.” Vogel takes over from Tim Hunt, who left the bank last year. Prior to joining Rabobank, Vogel worked for more than a decade in strategy and market research positions with international agribusiness Archer Daniels Midland.

News

On the Fence right now ? TOP SPOT: Last year’s winner of the Fieldays No.8 Wire National Art Award, Auckland artist Gina Ferguson, with her work titled Wear ‘n’ Tear.

Entries open for Fieldays art award KIWI creatives are being urged to put their inspiring art forward for the Fieldays No.8 Wire National Art Award. The prize pool is worth nearly $10,000 and entries for the annual awards are now open. Hosted by Waikato Museum Te Whare Taonga o Waikato and supported by the New Zealand National Fieldays Society, the event has seen incredible talent manipulate the infamously difficult product into stunning works for sale. Approaching its 25th year, the award is now recognised as a celebration of true ingenuity. In 2022, the competition will be judged by carver, sculptor and multidisciplinary artist Eugene Kara. With iwi affiliations to Ngāti Koroki Kahukura, Ngāti Pāhauwera, Ngāti Tāpā, Ngāti Kāata, Ngā Rauru, Te Ātihaunui-a-Pāpārangi, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Te Arawa and Ngāti Kahungunu, Kara has been a practicing artist for 30 years. In his time at the NZ Māori Arts and Crafts Institute (NZMACI) in Rotorua, he has established Te Ahi Komau, NZ’s first Māori foundry and bronze casting facility. “It’s an honour to have Eugene on board to select the finalists and eventual winners of this year’s award,” Waikato Museum director of museum and arts Liz Cotton said. “His artworks are recognised and admired around the region, including the commanding tekoteko column beside the Cambridge exit of the Waikato Expressway.” “Over the years, we have been privileged to witness many artists’ work through these awards. We’re proud to continue our support providing a platform for expression

of creativity and the grass-roots of agriculture in New Zealand, while also connecting a community of likeminded individuals,” NZ National Fieldays Society president James Allen said. The prize pool comprises $7000 for first place; $1000 for second; and third place takes home $500. There are also two $100 ArtsPost vouchers up for grabs in the President’s Choice and People’s Choice categories. Entries close at 1pm on Monday, March 14, and finalists will be notified in the week of March 21. Winners will be announced on April 21, followed by a month-long exhibition (April 22- May 23) at Hamilton’s ArtsPost Galleries & Shop. To read the competition criteria and access the entry form, go to www.waikatomuseum.co.nz/ no8wire

We’re proud to continue our support providing a platform for expression of creativity and the grass-roots of agriculture in New Zealand, while also connecting a community of like-minded individuals. James Allen NZ National Fieldays Society

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FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 31, 2022

First round of new pest tech out Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz THE results of funding through the Predator Free 2050 project are starting to filter through to regions as new trapping and detection tech starts to take on a commercial head of steam. Predator Free 2050 science director Dr Dan Tompkins is welcoming the first tranche of equipment that is the result of the original Provincial Growth Fund, which committed $19.5 million to pest control, of which $6.5m was specifically for developing new predator control technology.

The idea behind it was that we were to not only develop new tools for pest control, but to also build new businesses and expand job opportunities with the development of these tools. Dr Dan Tompkins Predator Free 2050 The $6.5m was disbursed for investment in projects over three years, with 12 projects ultimately funded out of the 62 applications. “The idea behind it was that we were to not only develop new tools for pest control, but to also build new businesses and

POSSIBLE: Predator Free 2050 science director Dr Dan Tompkins says he was confident NZ could still hit its target with emerging technology. expand job opportunities with the development of these tools,” Tompkins said. The technology ranges from traps, toxins, lures to comms equipment, focused on improving or extending the capacity of some existing technologies. The second tranche of funded projects are through the Jobs for Nature fund and are due to

be announced in the coming months. “At this point we cannot say too much about the second tranche, but the technology involves increased use of new and emerging technologies, including AI,” he said. One of the successful first tranche-funded projects is Boffa Miskell’s low-cost, open-sourced

automated system for dispensing lures to rodents that removes the labour costs involved in rebaiting long-lived traps in remote areas. “Having something that is modulised and customised to different systems is currently our biggest challenge. There has been this big gap for a while that we have been developing in

particular long-life tools,” he said. Dr Helen Blackie of Boffa Miskell said while you may have a detection system that works for 12 months, “the big problem is we have had no lures that last that long”. A highly sensitive back country detection camera has also been developed by Zero Invasive Predators and is shortly due to start commercial production. A thermal camera coupled with software and remote reporting can identify predators and provide real-time notifications of encounters. Now in place in South Westland, it is expected to reduce the cost of remote camera detection sixfold from $60 a hectare a year to $10/ ha/year. “South Westland is currently our biggest single area of control, across 100,000ha,” Tompkins said. He said he would like to see that area increase 10 times to one million hectare blocks across NZ by 2030, and remains optimistic such large areas can be achieved. “We are now seeing some very effective tools being developed, many from just a relatively small amount of seed funding,” he said. He said the export potential for such technology is significant, given the growing reputation NZ is getting for having a high level of expertise in managing pest populations in difficult landscapes. The full range of projects funded through the PGF round can be viewed at https://pf2050. co.nz/products-to-projects/

Strong demand for QE11 conservation Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz THE QE11 National Trust has passed 5000 approved and registered covenants and formal agreements, closing on 200,000ha of total land area throughout the country. Forests accounted for 45% of registered covenants, followed by grasslands and tussock lands at 27%. At the end of the trust’s 2021 financial year it had 4912 registered covenants and a further 134 new proposals approved and being actioned. During the 44th financial year, 128 new registrations were added, covering 1830ha of protected lands. QE11 National Trust owns 26 properties and has one licence to occupy. The annual report says Northland had the largest number of registered covenants, 761, followed by Waikato with 691. Approved, but awaiting registration at balance date, were 47 in Taranaki, 42 each in Canterbury and Waikato and 29 for Manawatū-Whanganui.

Canterbury has the greatest area of covenanted land classified as acutely or chronically threatened, over 4000ha, whereas Gisborne has over 50% of its covenants in those categories.

Forests accounted for 45% of registered covenants, followed by grasslands and tussock lands at 27%.

The Manaaki Whenua threatened environments classification is acute for less than 10% of indigenous cover left, and chronically when 10-20% indigenous cover left. Trust chief executive Dan Coup says despite covid, or perhaps partly because of it, demand for QE11’s services is very high. It has been challenging to keep up with demand in some parts of the country and securing additional funds for more staff members has been a priority, he said.

Government funding was obtained through the Jobs for Nature programme for the trust’s Protecting the Gains category of work. Over four years, the trust expects to be able to protect 260 more pieces of land over and above baseline funding. The annual operating budget is approximately $6 million, of which 80% comes from Vote Conservation and the remainder from investments, memberships, contestable funding, other grants and generous benefactors. During the year, trust representatives made 1865 monitoring visits to existing covenants and found that 89.5% had no issues requiring attention, leaving 195 that did require some attention, 50 of which had been resolved when the report was written. As statutory trustee of all covenants, monitoring is carried out every few years to check on the condition of the protected values and discuss any threats and management issues with the landowners. Landowners are responsible for complying with the conditions set out in the covenant.

SOUGHT AFTER: QE11 National Trust chief executive Dan Coup says despite covid, or perhaps partly because of it, demand for QE11’s services is very high.

AginED Ag ED

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

Volume 90 I January 31st, 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

CA RBON Carbon Sequestration and Carbon credits Last week we explored what carbon is. This week we will delve into what carbon sequestration and carbon credits are and why they are such a hot topic currently. You may have been reading stories of a number of farms and land being sold for forestry planting and conversions so that they can claim carbon credits from carbon sequestration and also have heard about the NZ Emissions Trading Scheme. Let's have a look at what each of these things are exactly. What is carbon sequestration? Carbon sequestration secures carbon dioxide to prevent it from entering the Earth’s atmosphere. With the aim to stabilise carbon in solid and dissolved forms so that it doesn’t cause atmospheric warming. There are two main types of carbon sequestration: biological and geological. Biological carbon sequestration is the storage of carbon dioxide in vegetation such as grasslands or forests, as well as in soils and oceans. Soil: Carbon is sequestered in soil by plants through photosynthesis and can be stored as soil organic carbon (SOC). It can also store carbon as carbonates, these are created over thousands of years when carbon dioxide dissolves in water and percolates the soil, combining with calcium and magnesium to form “caliche” in deserts and arid soil. Carbonates are inorganic and can store carbon for more than 70,000

years, while soil organic matter can store it for several decades. Forests: Around 25% of global emissions are captured by plantrich landscapes like forests, grasslands and rangelands. When leaves and branches fall off plants or when plants die, the carbon stored either releases into the atmosphere or is transferred to the soil. Wildfires and deforestation contribute to the diminishment of forests as a carbon sink. While forests are commonly credited as important carbon sinks, grasslands and rangelands can be more reliable than forests. Unlike trees, grasslands sequester most of their carbon underground and in the case of fires the carbon stays fixed in the roots and soil instead of in leaves and woody biomass. There is also Geological carbon sequestration: This is the process of storing carbon dioxide in underground geological formations, or rocks. Typically, carbon dioxide is captured from an industrial source, such as steel or cement production, or energy-related source, such as power plants or natural gas processing facilities and injected into porous rocks for long-term storage. This type of carbon capture and storage allows for the use of fossil fuels until another energy source is introduced on a large scale. Obviously in New Zealand it is biological carbon sequestration that is currently under the spotlight. Now that we have an idea of what types of sequestration there are, let's look how that fits into the bigger picture. In New Zealand we have an Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS). The ETS puts a price on greenhouse gas emissions. People or organisations involved with the Emissions Trading Scheme (land owners, businesses, or those with forestry rights) can earn credits for

According to a study conducted in the UK, in order to offset the CO2 produced by an average UK citizen's food consumption in one year, 70 new trees would need to be planted. To put this into context, just 30 minutes of watching Netflix on your TV or device each day requires nearly 60 trees to be planted to become carbon neutral.

absorb carbon dioxide (like planting or managing forests). When credits are earned they can then be: • Traded • Held on to • Surrendered back to offset activities that emit greenhouse gases (like burning fossil fuels) or reduced stored carbon (like harvesting trees) Emitters can also purchase credits to offset their emissions. To watch a short video on the ETS head to https:// www.youtube.com/ watch?v= _ zFXuQoX6ps From the information in the 2016 video:

This table shows North Island and South Island lamb and mutton values for last week. SHEEP MEAT

1 What did the government allow some participants to do when the ETS was first introduced in NZ? 2 What is an NZU? 3 Why does the government not accept international units (CERs)? 4 The video states that they were on track to meet their emission targets in 2020. Do you think this happened? Why or why not? 5 Are we doing enough to meet the 2030 goals? Are we doing enough? Too much? Not the right things? We would love to hear your opinions, flick us an email at agined@globalhq.co.nz

1 In what island are schedules higher? 2 How does each compare to the previous year? 3 What is the percentage difference between the NI lamb schedule and the previous year? 4 The North Island is experiencing longer wait times at processors compared to the South Island, how is this showing up in the values on the table? Hint:compare with the previous week for both islands. 5 There is concern that the spread of omicron may cause even more backlogs at processors. Why would this have an impact and what would this do to prices?

New native forests either planted or naturally regenerated after 1989, can participate in either the forestry provisions of the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) or the Permanent Forest Sink Initiative (PFSI). Do some research and answer the question below.

PODCAST CORNER: Feed Grass for Good is a sustainable podcast and each episode speaks with a different sustainable farmer or expert to discuss their lives, lessons and challenges in the field.

1 What is the Permanent Forest Sink Initiative (PFSI)? 2 What are the three main differences between the two programmes?

According to statistics from the Global Carbon Project average per person carbon emissions are as follows: • China - 7.4t CO 2 /person

• Canada – 14t CO 2 /person

• Australia – 15t CO 2 /person

• NZ – 6.9t CO 2 /person

• USA – 14t CO 2 /person

• UK – 4.9t CO 2 /person

The world average is 4.5t CO2/person

Episode 5 talks with Roderick Binney, the director and owner of Glenlea Beef in New South Wales, Australia. 1

What breed does Glenlea Beef breed?

2 What benefits does this breed have? 3 How does this breed differ in Australia than the original cattle from France? 4 What are the differences between grass-fed beef and grain-fed beef? https://farmersweekly.co.nz/s/podcasts/feedgrass-for-good

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 31, 2022

Newsmaker

Local food for local tastebuds Opening a new restaurant in the best of times is not for the faint-hearted, let alone trying to do it in the middle of a pandemic. But Harry Faas, who recently opened a new eatery in Palmerston North, is confident that by focusing on quality produce sourced from the region he lives in, he is on to a winner. Colin Williscroft reports.

RACEABILITY has been a bit of a buzzword in agriculture in recent years, but it’s a concept often associated with overseas markets rather than those closer to home. However, Performance Beef Breeders (PBB) general manager, and now co-owner of Palmerston North restaurant Provenance, Harry Faas believes he’s got a take on it that will benefit local food producers and the dining public. The restaurant, which opened in mid-December, prides itself on sourcing produce for its menu that is grown in the wider Manawatū area. That includes Angus Pure beef from Pahīatua, lamb from Whanganui, vegetables from Bulls, microgreens from Tokomaru, milk for desserts like ice creams and sorbets from Bunnythorpe, and cheeses from the Pohangina Valley.

What’s really resonating with people is the fact that we support local, source local. That just strikes a chord. Harry Faas Provenance Faas became interested in food traceability a few years ago through his involvement with Rural Innovation Lab. Although much of the discussion at the time revolved around the role of technology in the process, the more he thought about it, he came back to the concept of the village butcher. He said people went to their village butcher because they were like a trusted community brand, which was an idea he thought could be developed. At the same time in his day

BEEF TATAKI: 100g local premium grade Angus Pure beef fillet seared to rare, and served in a sesame ponzu dressing, with spring onions.

job at PBB, farmers were telling him that although they were doing well financially, they were unhappy about the negative perception held of them in some quarters, which was leading to a growing rural/urban divide. “We needed a way of getting the farm back into town, to showcase what we’re doing and (what) we’ve got,” Faas says. “I looked around and thought, ‘Actually, we have a lot of good things here (in Manawatū)’, it’s just amazing really. “So I started forming the idea of a restaurant and a brand around it, focusing on connections with local farms and food producers.” While he’s not quite there yet, the goal is to have everything on the menu sourced from the region. Central to the whole operation is Provenance co-owner and executive chef Aaron Freeman, known by many for his appearance in the TV series My Kitchen Rules. Faas says Freeman was suggested to him by Manawatū hospitality consultant Grant Kitchen. “He (Kitchen) put us in touch and we (Freeman) had dinner together one night and just started talking about the concept,” he said. “At the end of it we shook hands and he goes ‘Mate, I’m all in. I love this. I love this concept’. “He’s pretty much key to the whole thing. You’ve got to get the right people on board to make it happen and Aaron’s absolutely the right person. “He loves the whole concept of sourcing local, of gathering things up and then making beautiful meals out of them.” Not surprisingly, setting up a hospitality business during a global pandemic has not been without its challenges. Funding-wise a lot of lenders were risk averse, while sourcing building materials was also difficult because of hold-ups in supply chains.

WORKING TOGETHER: Harry Faas and Aaron Freeman are committed to highlighting local produce in their new restaurant.

“We were extremely lucky there. A week before the August lockdown all of our building materials arrived. If that hadn’t happened, we wouldn’t be open now,” he said. Finding staff has also been tough. “There’s a lot of people leaving hospo for other jobs that are not going to be disrupted by covid,” he said. “We’ve been very lucky with the team we’ve got, both in the kitchen and front of house. “They’ve all bought into the concept and it’s really exciting that they want to get involved with it. “A couple of our chefs recently went out to an orchard in Ashhurst, gathered up a whole bunch of grapefruit and came back and created a dessert out of it. “That’s a special that we’re running right now. “We want to do more of that kind of stuff; the chefs love it and I think customers will too.” It’s an example of the seasonal nature of the menu, which will change during the year, capitalising on the best and freshest produce available at the time. The kitchen is set up to move with those changes. He said the reaction of diners to the restaurant so far has been “overwhelming”. It has been full for dinner service and while lunch has been slower to take off, it too is starting to build,” he said. “What’s really resonating with people is the fact that we support local, source local. That just strikes a chord. “People are proud because this is the region they live in and all this food is being produced here, we’re just highlighting that. “I’ve got a feeling that postcovid it’s going to be even a bit more important … you see supply chains being disrupted, whereas

TARTARE OF BEEF: Best end of eye fillet au naturel, served classically with shallot, caper, cornichon, mustards, salt cured egg yolk, and house made crackerbreads. we can just source local.” It’s still early days but there are plenty of ideas being explored for development, including wild game on the menu during winter and the potential for reducing food waste by using the commercial kitchen to turn growers’ excess, such as tomatoes, into condiments like sauces. All going well, the plan is to potentially open other restaurants around the country based on the same concept. “We’re hoping that it will go further than just Palmerston North. This is the test case, but we really want to build on the concept,” he said. “We have a 10-year strategy where we open another four or

five if people react well to it. “It might not be the Provenance brand, but it will be sourced local; we’ll try and stay true to that as much as we can. “There’s opportunities there, plenty of room for growth if this works.” Despite the tough times restaurants are facing because of covid, he is confident eating out will always have a future. “I’ve always looked at (covid) objectively. I’ve thought it’s one of those things that the world, we will come together, we will fix it and we will move on, so I was never really scared long-term for the hospo business, because people love to go out, love to eat, love to come together.”

GREENS OF THE MOMENT: Locally sourced in-season greens sautéed in butter, then finished over charcoal.

New thinking

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 31, 2022

AGING: Dr Shannon Clarke says the epigenetic clock can help identify stock whose genetic composition is actually younger than the animal’s age.

Production by numbers An AgResearch team is using methylomes for aging that may help with identifying animals’ productive rates. The scientists have developed a livestock clock that can accurately predict an animal’s age within the four key livestock species. Richard Rennie reports.

AVING a biological age and a chronological age can mean two differing numbers, as many online fitness assessment tests will often disappointingly testify. But AgResearch scientists are using that difference to help identify animals that may prove to be productive well beyond what their chronological age suggests. The rapidly developing area of methylomics has scientists studying the natural modifications of DNA that happens to living organisms during their development and aging, and changes that happen to the genome when that organism experiences a sustained, stressful event. It is the science that has them looking two to three generations beyond the occurrence to see if it has been passed on, possibly providing a better strain of forages or livestock capable of greater resilience or productivity in the face of similar stress events in their lifetime, such as drought. “But our latest work has us working on an epigenetic clock, which uses DNA methylation to make an accurate prediction of chronological age,” AgResearch lead researcher Dr Shannon Clarke said. The scientists have developed a livestock clock that can accurately predict an animal’s age within the four key livestock species of goat, deer, sheep and cattle, with a very high .97 correlation coefficient. A similar human clock, the Horvath Clock, can estimate

human age with the same accuracy and a median error of 3.6 years. In itself this has a practical application for farmers in areas where birth date is not known for livestock, such as cattle in the Australian outback, or for conservationists trying to age wildlife.

What we would like to progress to is whether we can find from methylation an indicator we can add into a breeding performance index, one that highlights how they may be better at performing under a particular stressor or condition. Dr Shannon Clarke AgResearch “But the next step is to look at the deviation between the epigenetic age and the chronological age and if there is, whether it has been caused by stress and external factors, such as drought or disease,” she said. “From there, we would want to see if we could utilise this methylome profile to make selection decisions based on that accelerated or slowed biological aging.”

So far researchers have established a baseline epigenetic clock across all species, and only with time and increased sampling will they see how much those individual species vary from that “all species” base. Some work on human studies suggests these methylation affected genetics may be able to be passed on. Victims of the Dutch famine from 1944-1945, where 20,000 people died, also included pregnant women whose children showed signs of inherited response to the stress their mothers experienced. This included them ending up several kilograms heavier than average, having higher cholesterol in middle age, high obesity rates and diabetes. Overall, they experienced a 10% higher mortality rate than cohorts born either side of them. Scientists believe the process of methylomics silenced critical genes in the unborn children when their mothers were stressed and they stayed silent after birth. “For our work we would need three generations of animals to see if those traits are passed on,” she said. “It is also very difficult from an ethical point of view to stress animals. We are compelled to use animals stressed by naturally occurring events, particularly facial eczema. “What we would like to progress to is whether we can find from methylation an indicator we can add into a breeding performance index, one that highlights how they

may be better at performing under a particular stressor or condition.” Conversely, researchers may be able to also highlight how a particular line of stock, while being a certain chronological age are actually likely to underperform because they are epigenetically older and possibly unlikely to reach full potential. They are still to determine whether the methylomic effect is

likely to be greater in females than males. “And we have not determined at what stage a stressful event could bring a genetic change, whether it is before mating after, before birth or at weaning,” she said. “This would affect when we actually determine that biological age. The first step for us really is just to determine that epigenetic clock as a baseline to measure stress.”

NEW AGE: AgResearch’s livestock clock is similar to one developed for humans by Steve Horvath of the University of California.

Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 31, 2022

EDITORIAL

Rising inflation works both sides of the ledger

T’S hard to know what to think right now if you’re a farmer. Dairy farmers came back from the shed last Tuesday morning to the news Fonterra has raised its forecast payout for the season by 50c to $9.20/kg MS. That would be the biggest on record by some stretch. Drystock farmers read in Farmers Weekly last week that high beef and lamb prices look solid for the coming year. Yet the response from farmers has been mixed, with many pointing to rising costs eating into these gains. The pandemic has created a perfect environment for inflation, with raw material shortages and supply chain issues hitting things like fertiliser and machinery. The rising milk price, on the other hand, comes from demand-pull inflation – the world wants dairy products and is willing to pay for it. With Omicron now threatening our summer, there is obviously concern about processing and supply chain stability. A look across the ditch shows what a widespread outbreak can look like – empty supermarket shelves as vast numbers of workers are sick or isolating. Last week’s tweeks to isolation protocols will shorten time away from critical work for some people, but having Omicron spreading through our communities brings a whole lot of other issues. How do we look after our elderly and medically vulnerable friends and family? It’s going to be another troubling couple of months as we wrestle with this new variant. However, as an industry we’ve come through this much of the pandemic well. Food is being processed and exported, demand is strong and supply chains, while shaky, are holding up. Given everything that’s happened in the past couple of years, we’ve weathered pretty well and have a good chance of weathering this new storm.

Bryan Gibson

LETTERS

Forestry coverage not the full picture ONCE again, forestry articles in Farmers Weekly, and elsewhere in the media, cover parts of the issue, but not other facts that don’t suit their case. Keith Woodford’s latest article, Sector faces tumultuous 2022 (FW 24/1/22), illustrates the point, but I would also criticise coverage of carbon forestry. There are several points that I think should be in the debate but commonly ignored. They include: Forestry is, and has been for decades, a much better export earner per hectare than sheep and beef farming – currently two-thirds of the export earning from one-third of the area, or one-quarter if we include the high country (check StatsNZ). There is strong international

demand for our pruned radiata pine clearwood, which, with newer, low environmental impact treatments, is being used as a substitute for tropical hardwoods, especially in Europe and produces what one experienced joiner described as “the best joinery timber he’d ever met”. (Google Accoya and Kebany wood and remember that the Norwegians come to buy our clearwood for the latter). Regarding carbon forestry, recent reports argue that production forestry is more effective at mitigating greenhouse gas emissions than permanent forest sinks. This point is made in a couple of IPCC reports and a recent Nature paper, among others.

It does depend to some extent on wood use and incorporation in long-term structures is better than short term-boxing. I feel this point should be in the national debate over land use and the ETS. Unbeknown to Woodford, it would seem, the domestic lumber market is still booming with demand for structural lumber. I do agree with him that the Chinese log market probably isn’t an eternal nirvana – high-class prices for low-grade logs – but wise foresters would have worked on quality for the post-China era. As usual, I find Woodford’s theory doesn’t really seem to fit with my experience. It is not necessarily wrong, just incomplete. Forestry has been a very

reliable support for this property, but with familiar commodity price cycles. If the Chinese market is in decline, then so be it; it’s lasted a lot longer than I expected and I have been careful to continue aiming a little higher for the next cycle. Denis Hocking Bulls

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Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 31, 2022

A farmer’s take on emissions The

Pulpit

Fraser McCougan

S A farmer, I have been at a crossroads for the past few years. Our family farm has previously followed a simple strategy of growth in production and done well out of it. We have had good profitability and rising output. But the question I have been asked is, how do we continue to support our environment? These decisions have been made for us, as the extremely variable weather patterns confirm to me that climate change is upon us. We’ve had phenomenal winter pasture growth rates, then terribly wet springs. Dry periods in early October-November were followed by record setting floods in autumn. So as a farmer who learns from past mistakes, I have been looking at what we can do to continue running a successful business. In 2022, the world has moved and there is global understanding that climate change is happening to us right now. The weather data we look at so often is clear, the world is warming. Seven of the past 10 years have been hotter than usual. But herein lies the problem and the solutions. Firstly, we understand there are actions we can take on our farms, to play our part alongside all New Zealanders. Many people who live in towns and cities are becoming aware of climate change and are being asked by government to modify their lifestyles and

CHANGING: Fraser McGougan says the weather data is clear, the world is warming. Seven of the past 10 years have been hotter than usual.

CLOSING THE GAP: Climate Change Ambassador chair and dairy farmer Fraser McGougan says there is a need to build on the great work many farmers are already doing and enhance the investment in R&D to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

behaviours – from a push to electric vehicles, to an awareness of where products come from. We need to build on the great work many farmers are already doing and enhance the investment in R&D to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to help farmers adopt innovative solutions on-farm. DairyNZ is helping lead the way in this area with great advice. Our customers and consumers are putting climate targets and strategies in place and our products will have to meet these specifications for us to remain internationally competitive. This is important because exporting dairy and meat allows us to contribute to local economies and communities. I have been lucky enough to be part of the He Waka Eke Noa farmer workstream tasked with finding solutions, to put before farmers, that will be acceptable

to farmers and New Zealanders in our response to climate change. This Primary Sector Climate Action Partnership between farmers, primary sector organisations, Māori and the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) and Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is designed to come up with an alternative to NZ Emissions Trading Scheme (NZ ETS), which the Government put into legislation.

As a farmer who learns from past mistakes, I have been looking at what we can do to continue running a successful business.

Keeping agriculture emissions out of the ETS is a key objective. DairyNZ and other primary sector organisations lobbied against agriculture going into the ETS and, as a result, the Government has agreed to listen to an alternative credible and equitable solution. DairyNZ, Beef + Lamb NZ are bringing a roadshow across the country in February to get further farmer feedback on the two options, which are farm-level levy and a processor-level hybrid levy. Farmers can give their feedback at the roadshow and online to help come up with a solution to recommend to government. Like the weather, there is no perfect option but we want to work together to come up with the best solution, so it’s important farmers have a say. A key aspect is that both options acknowledge sequestration onfarm, which can include native and riparian plantings; some of which have never been recognised. The levy funds are designed to be reinvested back into agriculture via options such as scientific research and development. This is huge, as we can potentially make some significant inroads into decreasing our agricultural emissions keeping NZ agriculture at the forefront of the world’s producers. There will be a cost to this though, which farmers will incur. The pricing attached to the emissions a farm makes from animal emissions (methane) and fertiliser emissions (nitrous oxide) is designed to incentivise

positive actions on-farm. Already the Government has listened and taken the advice of NZ’s agricultural sector to follow a splitgas approach in the Zero Carbon Act, which was a win for the sector. In the He Waka Eke Noa options, farm-based emissions are treated differently to long-lived carbon dioxide emissions, recognising their different warming impact. So to answer the question I have asked myself: will we focus on profitability and sustainability? The answer is yes, we will have to change systems, but we have time. Also, we will have reinvestment of capital under either of the He Waka Eke Noa options, that will help us get the right advice, from the right people, at the right time, to help us on this journey. The choice now is yours. Information about the roadshow hosted by DairyNZ, Beef + Lamb NZ and Federated Farmers is on the DairyNZ website. Go to dairynz.co.nz and click on Have Your Say. Registrations are essential due to covid requirements.

Who am I? Fraser McGougan is Whakatāne dairy farmer and Climate Change Ambassadors chair.

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 – January 31, 2022

Year ahead will pose challenges Alternative View

Alan Emerson

WE’RE going to be in for an interesting 12 months if my reading of the tea leaves is correct. For a start, there’s the Omicron variant of covid-19, which I’ll come back to, but there are many other factors as well. I found the commentary on rising interest rates somewhat myopic, with many economists crying doom for the housing market. I have little sympathy with that. House prices have increased markedly in recent years and a little retraction shouldn’t hurt anyone. What is considerably more important is the rate increase for the rural productive sector, the engine room of the economy. My information is that farmers have been paying down debt, which is the responsible thing to do. Farmers are like that. That paying down combined with current prices should ensure life continues in the provinces – not that our economic brigade seem to be remotely interested. Politically we’re just a few months short of the Government’s mid-term and to have any hope of winning the next election they

need to get contentious legislation completed this year. That obviously involves the Three Waters stupidity, but there are other concerns as well. We’re due for a revelation on what will happen with the firearms legislation going forward, which is sadly but inevitably predictable. If the Government wanted me to take them remotely seriously they would have set up a stand-alone firearms agency separate from the police as has been recommended countless times. What they’ll do is bring in further restrictions, which will be predictably ignored and life will continue. It was interesting to hear the Prime Minister’s recent statement about the Government’s priorities for 2022. They included health reforms, climate change, improving housing affordability and reducing child poverty. Surprisingly, in my view, Three Waters wasn’t mentioned, which left two options. The first was for government to railroad the so-called reforms through, which would be electoral suicide. The second would be for the entire package to be sent back to the drawing board for meaningful consultation leading to the development of a workable package. It will be fascinating to see which option is chosen, but I fear the worst. What the Government chooses to do on climate change will be interesting, as its actions to date will achieve little. The taxpayer subsidising electric vehicles, then

burning imported coal to provide the electricity to charge them doesn’t achieve anything. The health reforms have been handled considerably better than Three Waters shambles, but we still need a lot more information. Housing affordability will occur on its own, with the predicted downward correction. Without doubt, however, Omicron will dominate the next 12 months and here I have major issues. For a start, I won’t be criticising the Government. When first elected over four years ago covid-19 or anything like it didn’t exist. I believe they’ve done a good job for NZ to date. In addition, the Government and bureaucracy have worked together well to handle the crisis. Personal and departmental agenda’s haven’t surfaced. To use a military analogy, we don’t analyse each battle of a successful general if they end up winning the war. I apply the same process to the Government’s handling of the covid crisis. They’ve given it their best shot and, to date, have been successful. Omicron is going to give us several headaches in the next few months. Firstly, there’s the concern of supply chain failure and while the ‘experts’ have warned of supermarket and building supply shortages, surprisingly they haven’t mentioned problems for the provinces. There is already an issue with

NO CLEAR PATH: With all the big decisions that’s set to play out this year, and with the ongoing threat of covid, Alan Emerson says the sector, and country, are in for an interesting year ahead. fertiliser, with more to follow. We’ve also heard of the problems with labour shortages, with healthcare workers and truck drivers often mentioned. While that is of genuine concern, it worries me that no one is talking about the problems we’ll have. Covid aside, we’re highly stretched now with a lack of skilled immigrants exacerbating the problem. The meat industry has already warned us of significant problems during the peak season. No matter what happens, cows need to be milked, stock fed and crops harvested. They will all provide major challenges in an Omicron outbreak. The good news is we do have support, with MPI issuing an excellent Covid-19 Protection Framework document. In addition, Federated Farmers have excelled with their covid-19

On-farm Checklist for farmers. It is a short, well-developed checklist that will enable farmers to limit the effects of the inevitable spread of Omicron. Most importantly, we all need to be triple-vaxxed. I said I supported the Government’s covid response, but the National opposition needs calling to account over its stupid statements. National leader Chris Luxon has told us at length how the Government ‘isn’t prepared’ for Omicron. I found that a cheap political shot. How would he know? What would he do differently? Wouldn’t he be better off stopping his MPs from featuring at anti-vax rallies?

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

Another battle in war against covid From the Ridge

Steve Wyn-Harris

THE Phoney War is the term for an eight-month period at the beginning of World War Two. Nazi Germany invaded Poland on the September 1, 1939, and in response on September 3, Britain and France declared war on Germany. New Zealand followed on the same day within an hour or so. For months there were no largescale military operations, rather various skirmishes, which were mostly naval-based. It wasn’t until eight months later when Germany invaded Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands on May 10, 1940 and began the Battle of France, that which is now known as the Phoney War ended and all-out war began. I’m thinking about this period of history because that’s what it

feels a bit like, what we’ve been through with this pandemic over the past two years. It was at the beginning of January two years ago that I told a visitor that I’d heard a curious news report about a fellow dying of a mystery virus in a city in China I’d never heard of. Wuhan is familiar now though. He asked why I thought that curious and I said that given tens of thousands die in that country each day, the report of just one might be cause for concern. Why this particular one, I mused. We went on to discuss viruses and pandemics of the past as both of us knew about the Black Death or Plague of the mid14th century, which killed half the population of Eurasia and Northern Africa. That virus continued to cause pandemics in human populations for hundreds of years and still lurks in corners of the world. Some months later I heard a dark humour joke that summed up the evolving situation. Who said that one person couldn’t change the world? Tell that to the fellow who ate an undercooked bat. It seemed that we would quickly follow the rest of the world into

BOOST: While there’s no way of knowing how Omicron will play out in the community, Steve Wyn-Harris is hopeful NZ’s high vaccination rates will provide some protection.

this pandemic, but the advantage of a large moat and a decent health response until vaccines were invented and deployed sees us now in the position to finally deal, as well as might be expected, with what was always inevitable. The official tally of global

deaths from this virus is 5.6 million, but it is widely accepted that this is well below the actual total, which is more likely to be in excess of 20 million. With a world population of 7.9 billion, this is not material unless it’s you or people you know in the head count. The 353 million reported cases have more impact given the pressure on health systems leading to deaths from other causes and that perhaps up to a third infected experience long covid symptoms for some months after catching the virus. I interviewed a woman who caught the virus at the Hereford conference nearly two years ago and she was ill for some months and coming up two years later still suffers from fatigue. Hopefully, our high level of vaccination rates gives us protection from the long covid because trying to run a farm full of livestock, or do any sort of job, while feeling crook for months is not a prospect any of us are looking forward to. I had my booster shot a couple of days ago thinking if I needed a quiet day following, I could make that happen. No sooner was it in my arm

when my meat company drafter texted offering the long booked in ewe space. I wasn’t turning it down given the uncertainty of being able to get stock killed when some of the already slim workforce gets the virus and must stand down. Having long put off mouthing and uddering the ewe flock in favour of more pleasurable farm activities, I had to finally get stuck in and fortunately other than a bit of a sore arm, I was fine and got the job done, although knackered by the end of it. The elimination strategy has been disruptive and difficult for all sorts of sectors but no less troublesome than what most other countries who have lived with this virus these past two years have been dealing with. Now it’s our turn, but vaccinations, effective mask use and social distancing will remain tools to assist us to get through the next few months as best we can. Good luck and keep safe.

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

Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 31, 2022

Planning for the Omicron wave Meaty Matters

Allan Barber

IT’S not as if it has been easy, confronting the multiple operational and logistical challenges posed by covid, but the emergence of Omicron in New Zealand threatens to make the last two years look like a walk in the park. Offshore experience shows a 30-40% level of workforce absenteeism because of sickness, while in Australia workers at Teys Naracoorte abattoir who tested positive, although asymptomatic, were allowed by South Australia Health to come to work unless they were feeling unwell. This was a specific exemption to cope with a supply chain crisis, although it appears Woolworths Australia may not have got the message, as they suspended their contract with the abattoir for a week. Teys requires a PCR or rapid antigen test (RATs) of all workers, with further tests being performed daily. Unfortunately, there have been reports of a meat shortage in the supermarket chillers in Melbourne, which may well have been caused by the suspension. The beef kill for that week was less than 50,000 head, which is very low for the Australian red meat processing sector and explains why Australian retailers are looking for NZ product. Although meat processors have started planning for absenteeism,

they already have restrictions in place as a result of the systems developed for previous covid variants and lockdowns, which includes plant employees working in defined pods. Silver Fern Farms (SFF) chief executive Simon Limmer confirmed the company has moved its operating framework to the red traffic light setting, saying it is essentially business as usual, “as we have always taken a precautionary approach to our operations irrespective of the alert level. Our priority is the safety and welfare of our staff, but as a marketled organisation we also have a big focus on delivering to our customers through the constraints in which we will be operating”. Limmer also drew attention to the use of RATs, which SFF trialled with around 30 businesses last year, stating these would be another helpful tool because they were faster, despite a lower degree of accuracy than the PCR nasal swab test. The main problem with RATs is not the level of accuracy, but the Government’s snail-like process for authorising their use and ordering them in the first place. There are currently 4.6 million in the country, with their availability restricted to key workers. Global supplies are very hard to get hold of which means we are yet again at the back of the queue, when, with a modicum of forethought, we could have had tens of millions in the country already. One meat company had a shipment of RATs intercepted at the border last year because the bureaucratically petrified Ministry of Health didn’t yet believe in their value and wouldn’t let them into the country. For goodness’ sake, give me strength.

Anzco chief executive Peter Conley told me they are working with Business NZ to get access to RATs, but buying them is proving difficult, as they are only available through pharmacies, whereas in Europe and the US they are readily available from a wide range of retail outlets. In the meanwhile, Anzco is prioritising three legs of its anti-covid strategy: promotion of vaccinations and booster shots throughout its workforce; maintaining full PPE clothing and equipment; and close cooperation with the relevant health authority in each region regarding isolation and testing. Conley believes this wave will be quite different from Alpha and Delta because of the variant’s transmissibility and potential to move like wildfire through all parts of the supply chain: on-farm, livestock transport and handling, processing plant operations, distribution, port handling and shipping. Those stages are just in this country with huge potential for disruption at the other end. As the largest destination for our exports, not limited to the meat industry, China presents a particular risk because of the regular lockdowns of whole cities and the relative ineffectiveness of its vaccine against all coronavirus variants, especially Omicron. For these reasons farmers must plan early and have a fallback position to reduce their risk. Conley’s advice is not to play the field, but to get stock away early rather than late, while realising contracted suppliers will get preference. Limmer reinforces this, stating SFF’s focus will be on moving animals off-farm, “although at times this may come at the expense of value”. Similar to Anzco, SFF’s priority will be “our

PREPARED: Although meat processors have started planning for absenteeism, they already have restrictions in place as a result of the systems developed for previous covid variants and lockdowns, which includes plant employees working in defined pods. fully shared and valued suppliers”, as well as cases where there is animal welfare risk. Talk to your livestock buyer early is the main theme. Omicron will exacerbate the worker shortage problem, which already affects the industry. SSF already has a shortage of around 550 workers, which cannot be filled locally because of NZ’s low unemployment rate. Representations to the Government to reconsider employer access to overseas workers have so far fallen on deaf ears, mirroring the crisis in the health sector, which has a critical shortage of specialists, doctors and nurses. In my part of the world a strawberry grower has ripped whole paddocks of strawberries

out because his Pacific Island workforce was sent back home, the Immigration Department refusing to extend their visas. And all we ever hear from the Minister of Immigration Kris Faafoi is a deafening silence. My conversations with the meat companies demonstrate a careful approach, with a lot of planning informed by past experience, but nervousness about the unknown and how Omicron will affect the seasonal peak over the next three months.

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

NZ dollar is still solid – for now Straight Talking

Cameron Bagrie

AMONG challenges, including rapidly rising costs, sourcing staff (and whether they turn up each day), the rural sector has had a winning quinella in the form of high commodity prices and a favourable New Zealand dollar (NZD). We now reside in a world where the NZD-USD around 0.68 is favourable and still good for many exporters. Back in the 1990s, the NZD-USD rarely hit 0.70. In the past 20 years it has been above 0.70 more than half the time and 60% in the past decade. Picking near-term currency movements is a mug’s game, but we can still offer observations.

The NZD looks cheap against the United States dollar (USD) based on the fundamentals and inputs such as commodity prices or the terms of trade (the ratio of export prices to import prices). NZ’s terms of trade are around 40% higher than what it was in the ‘90s. Think of it as a ratio of food export prices to manufacturing import prices. The price of butter versus a new television. A kilogram of steak versus an item of clothing. Higher relative prices mean NZ needs to sell less volume to obtain the same total revenue stream. The rise in the terms of trade has delivered a large increase in purchasing power. ANZ’s world commodity price index is 50% above where it was 20 years ago and more than double 30 years ago. NZD prices have hit new highs. With that sort of tailwind, it is of little surprise to see the NZD trading in a higher zone over many years. The surprise has been the extent of recent currency weakness dropping from 0.74 to 0.68. The NZD-AUD and NZD-

GBP remain elevated. What economists call fair value for the NZD-USD – an approximation for where the NZD-USD will sit on average over numerous years or the rubber band that drags the currency back towards fundamentals – has gone from in the low 60s to around 70 cents. The NZD should be higher than where it sits at present based on such measures. Current and expected levels of interest rates are also key drivers and remain in the NZD’s favour. Market expectations are that the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) will raise the Official Cash Rate (OCR) towards 2.3% by early 2023. By contrast, the United States Federal Reserve (Fed) is expected to start tightening in 2022, with the federal funds rate reaching around 1% by early 2023. I ponder just how long other central banks can stand idle and let inflationary pressures build though without acting. Headline inflation is now 7% in the United States and inflation ex food and energy 5.5%.

Covid-19 or the new variant Omicron cannot remain in control indefinitely. Sooner or later – and I suspect sooner – other central banks will have to address inflation. The gap between where markets say the RBNZ is headed for interest rates and other central banks looks too wide. Assuming current interest rate expectations are factored into the NZD-USD, a major reassessment could weaken the NZD-USD. Containing inflation is not growth (or commodity) friendly and will likely involve a pick-up in asset price volatility. That is potentially negative for the NZD too. There are many other factors that influence the trajectory for a currency. These include relative productivity differentials, inflation, growth, net external debt, fiscal policy, and broad economic direction. NZ has a few developing warning signs of those fronts. The current account deficit is starting to increase and net external debt too. The economic base is being slowly eroded by questionable

government policy, the full impact of which will not be felt for years. But the US and USD faces challenges too in the form of gargantuan government debt, and the “empire” of the 20th century is showing signs of being well past its peak, just as the Roman and British empires eventually faded. If the USD was not the reserve currency, all bets would be off. At present, the NZD-USD is in an historically elevated but still favourable zone. The fundamentals say higher. Adverse news from China, or a reassessment of rate hike expectations from the Fed and rising risk aversion are the key downside risks. Inflation pressures will need to be addressed and we could be in for volatile times, currency and commodities included.

Your View Cameron Bagrie is the managing director of Bagrie Economics and a shareholder and director of Chaperon – helping businesses navigate banking. His views do not constitute advice.

Ongarue 1916 Ngakonui Ongarue Road Open Day

Beauly "Beauly" could be considered one of the best sheep and beef farms in the district. The farm is 1,075.57 ha in total with 820 ha effective wintering 8,800 su. It has a superb balance of contour as it gradually rises from the roadside to the top of the farm at a steady and easy grade. The farm mostly faces west so is sheltered and warm considering its altitude. All weather metal roads provide excellent connection to the centre of the farm and very good farm tracks flow on from the central points to allow easy movement of stock and machinery to the higher reaches of the farm. A solid and impressive fert history is indicative of the attention to detail. Good infrastructure supports the farm, with ample satellite yards, both sheep and cattle, a sound woolshed, covered yards, implement sheds, very good housing and there is plenty of outdoor recreational features to add to the enjoyment of this property. Helmets are essential for viewing.

Tender closes 4.00pm, Thu 3rd Mar, 2022, Property Brokers, 27 Hakiaha Street, Taumarunui View Thu 3 Feb 10.00 - 2.00pm Thu 10 Feb 10.00 - 2.00pm Web pb.co.nz/TUR101065

Katie Walker M 027 757 7477

E katiew@pb.co.nz

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

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

Proud to be here

Waerengaahika 375 Matawai Road Tender

Lifestyle or more Tender closes 4.00pm, Wed 9th Feb, 2022 (unless sold prior), 66 Reads Quay, Gisborne View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/GIR11776

• 4.7 ha or 11.7 acres of prime Poverty Bay flats • Four bedroom home • 10 km to CBD • Close to schools • Fertile soils Located in the heart of Poverty Bay, this property consists of some of the best growing medium in the country, consisting of Matawhero silt loam. The land is currently leased out for seasonal cropping. The opportunities for this property are endless, with plenty of opportunity to stamp your mark on the house and section, as well as a large shed to store the toys in. The well-appointed Makaraka Village is only a five minute commute, with Makauri School just two minutes away.

Tom Lane M 021 058 7018

E toml@pb.co.nz

Te Karaka 1750 Kanakanaia Road Tender

Punawai farm – spring water • 388 ha or 960 acres • Strong stock water • Spring fed dams and creeks • Well subdivided: 36 paddocks approximately • Three bedroom homestead • All weather airstrip Strong Gisborne hill country farmland that has been in the same family for three generations. This property is located 40-45 minutes north of Gisborne at the top of the Kanakanaia Valley. There is a mixture of contour from cultivable land to steep. Punawai offers ample opportunity for a range of purchasers. Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 | pb.co.nz

Tender closes 4.00pm, Thu 10th Mar, 2022, 66 Reads Quay, Gisborne View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/GIR93328

Tom Lane M 021 058 7018

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

Eketahuna 343 Parkville Road and South Road No.2 Tender

Kaimoa dairy & support - 374 ha Kaimoa provides rare scale and superior infrastructure to the market which will suit the most discerning purchasers. Located just 8 km west of Eketahuna township in a location renowned for regular summer rainfall. Multiple purchase options include a 227 ha (effective platform) dairy unit which is well apportioned with a centrally located 40 ASHB cowshed complete with cup removers and compliant cooling system. Further dairy infrastructure includes a covered feed barn complete with concrete feed storage and an independent effluent system. With five dwellings spread over the properties, Kaimoa provides flexible purchase options ranging from; Parkville and South Road No.2 - 374 ha (Entire property) or split options; Parkville platform - 256 ha, Parkville Road support unit - 58 ha, South Road support (Bull block) - 59 ha.

Tender closes 2.00pm, Thu 10th Mar, 2022, to be submitted to Property Brokers, 129 Main Street, Pahiatua View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/PR11567

Jared Brock M 027 449 5496

E jared@pb.co.nz

John Arends M 027 444 7380

E johna@pb.co.nz

Pahiatua 1988 Mangaone Valley Road Auction

Chessfield - 119 ha Located under 10 minutes drive from Pahiatua, Chessfield is a 119 ha dairy farm that will satisfy the most discerning of buyers. Regularly high producing with last season 149,000 kgMS off a 100 ha platform, the property boasts superior soils, modern pasture species, quality farm infrastructure and two dwellings. Improvements include a 24 ASHB shed complete with modern plant and 300 cow round yard, 280 cow covered feed pad plus concrete feed storage and a good range of shedding. Dwellings include a large three bedroom plus office superior home with subdivision plan in place and a four bedroom home providing ample accommodation or sell down potential. This unit will attract interest from across a range of agricultural sectors with its high productive capability and superior infrastructure.

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

Auction 2.00pm, Wed 2nd Mar, 2022, to be held 2.00pm, Bush Multisport Complex, 57 Huxley Street, Pahiatua View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/PR10584

Jared Brock M 027 449 5496

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

NEW LISTING

Boundary lines are indicative only

Ngahinapouri 319 O'Regan Road

Hamilton city location with excellent contour

With an excellent location only minutes to Hamilton and mostly flat contour, this 141ha (more or less) dairy farm is a must see. Currently milking approximately 300 cows through a 36-bail Dairy Tech internal rotary cow shed, this low input farm features a central race to 33 paddocks, making it easy to manage for staff and owners alike.

Auction (unless sold prior) 11am, Thu 3 Mar 2022 96 Ulster Street, Hamilton View Tue 12.30-1.30pm Dave Kilbride 027 436 7082 dave.kilbride@bayleys.co.nz

Supporting infrastructure includes a four bay implement shed with 3 phase power, four bay calf shed with bobby calf load out, feed pad, 250 tonne silage bunker and 30 tonne feed bin. Water is supplied via two bores to troughs in all paddocks. The effluent system includes a 4.5 million litre lined pond with pump and twin stirrers with the ability to irrigate over 35ha. A two-bedroom dwelling with one bedroom sleepout and double garage plus an extra one-bedroom self-contained unit with carport provide suitable accommodation for staff.

SUCCESS REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/2313060

NEW LISTING

Waharoa 148 Troughton Road

Flat and fertile with proven performance 100 hectares (more or less) situated just 13km north of Matamata, supplying Fonterra the farm produced 163,894 kgMS for the 2020/2021 season from a milking herd of 330 cows with all young stock grazed off. Well serviced by its infrastructure, the farm comes with two homes and 36 aside cowshed with in shed feeding supported by a full complement of farm buildings. Strong healthy pastures reflects fertilizer applications to soil test requirements, the square shape of the property offers a simple farm layout with easy access to 58 paddocks making management a breeze. Currently operating under 50/50 share milking arrangement contracted for another season ending 31st May 2023. With the property's prime location, superior contour and proven productivity must be an obvious acquisition for astute purchasers looking for a first-class farming investment.

Auction (unless sold prior) 11am, Thu 24 Feb 2022 96 Ulster Street, Hamilton View 11am-12pm Thu 3 Feb, Thu 10 Feb & Thu 17 Feb or by appointment Sam Troughton 027 480 0836 sam.troughton@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LIMITED, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/2400431

bayleys.co.nz

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 31, 2022

Kereru 1406 Mangleton Road

Tarapeke This ideal 140.70ha run-off or first farm is situated in the renowned Mangleton farming district situated approximately 59km from Hastings. The property has been farmed predominantly as a deer unit with 480 hinds as well as a mix of cattle and sheep. Excellent standard of deer fencing throughout the property fenced into 13 main paddocks with good lane-way access. Infrastructure includes deer shed and cattle yards. Contour ranges from easy to medium hill. Tarapeke has reliable water via springs and dams and is complimented by reliable summer rainfall. An opportunity not to be missed.

Tender (will not be sold prior) Closing 12pm, Thu 24 Feb 2022 26 Takapau Road, Waipukurau View by appointment Andy Hunter 027 449 5827 andy.hunter@bayleys.co.nz EASTERN REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS REALTY, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

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LIST WITH BAYLEYS’ COUNTRY

AUTUMN 2022 Bayleys’ Country magazine is the leading rural and lifestyle property marketing campaign to help you find the best buyer for your rural or lifestyle property. With agents up, down and right across New Zealand, Bayleys has an altogether better team working for you – with an impressive sales track record to prove it. That’s why we’re New Zealand’s number one rural real estate brand. If it’s time to turn over a new leaf and sell your farm, orchard, forestry block, vineyard or lifestyle property, then make hay while the sun shines and let us show you how. Call 0800 BAYLEYS or visit bayleys.co.nz/country LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

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FARM, SPECIALTY AND LIFESTYLE PROPERTIES FOR SALE ISSUE 2 – 2021

Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services

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FARMERS WEEKLY – January 31, 2022

55HA ON TOWN’S DOORSTEP 315 & 333 Makino Road, Feilding Highly attractive with scattered Totara and bush areas, the 2 homes and 3 titles create various purchase options.

7+ BED | 4 BATH | 4 CAR 55.19 hectares

nzr.nz/RX3147043

VIEW BY APPOINTMENT

A substantial, modernised home offers spectacular views, along Tender with a 77m² fully self-contained studio in the garden. There is Closes 11am, Thu 3 Mar 2022, also a tidy four bedroom home on the flat. NZR, 20 Kimbolton Road, Feilding. Peter Barnett AREINZ With bore water, great sheds and stock facilities, you have versatility of land-use here, and only 4.5km from the sale yards. 027 482 6835 | peter@nzr.nz NZR Limited | Licensed REAA 2008 See video on website or call for a detailed Property Report.

TE ONE A MARA 465 State Highway 49, Tangiwai An opportunity here for the astute investor to secure a diverse property with scale, contour in a stunning scenic environment. Currently a productive 356,000 KG/MS 800 cow herd (2 year average) standalone dairy unit. Comprising of 508 ha total (448 ha effective) plus 278 ha lease of adjoining support land. Free draining volcanic soil types opens up for diversification from other land uses or to run in conjunction with existing model. Improvements include a 60-bail rotary shed, 3 dwellings, 3 bay feed shed, 10 bay calf shed and a reticulated water scheme.

TENDER

508 Hectares Tender

nzr.nz/RX3147048 Tender closing (unless sold prior) 11am, Wed 9 Mar 2022 NZR, 1 Goldfinch Street, Ohakune Jamie Proude AREINZ 06 385 4466 | 027 448 5162 jamie@nzr.nz NZR Central Ltd | Licensed REAA 2008

OPEN DAY

A Quality Opportunity

Open Day: Thursday, 3 February 11.00am - 1.00pm

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

515 Candy Road, Pokuru - approx. 12 kms to Te Awamutu 129.6 hectares - Waipa River on western boundary easy rolling contour with strong flats & some sidlings soil types include mairoa ash & puniu silt loam good subdivision & races; consistently well fertilised & water reticulation system sourced from two bores • carrying approx. 380 cows & producing 3 year average of 142,596 kgs milk solids

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

Ph Brian Peacocke 021 373 113 / TradeMe search # R1408

Tenders Close: Friday, 18 February 2022 - 4.00pm

PRL Enterprises Ltd t/a PRL Rural

021 373 113

Licensed REAA2008

MREINZ

bjp@prl308.co.nz

Real Estate

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 31, 2022

RUA-WAI

DANNEVIRKE

Farm For Sale or Investment Opportunity 234.5 hectares

By Negotiation

• 234.5 hectare dairy farm Call Richard for more information or to arrange a time to view. • 205 hectare milking platform • 160 hectares under irrigation • 50 bale rotary shed • Automatic cup removers and in-shed feeding • 2 houses • The Dairy farm was converted from a stud bull, beef unit and dairy runoff in 2008/09 with the first season being 2009/10 • This is an excellent opportunity to invest in a growth industry and maximise returns for your future 37 Karewarewa Road

Property ID RAL891

227 Karewarewa Road

ruralandlifestylesales.com

Richard Anderson 027 543 1610 richard@rals.co.nz

Rural and Lifestyle Sales.com Ltd Licensed REAA 2008

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

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

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

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

LK0110233©

37 Karewarewa Road, Rangiwahia

www.forfarms.co.nz - ID FF3335

Accelerating success.

Sheep/Beef

When location, contour and soil fertility count Tenders closing Wednesday 23 February 2022 at 4pm (plus GST if any) 19 Flat Hill Road & 967 Matahorua Road, Hastings, Hawke’s Bay

Roundhill Station 509ha (more or less)

Hartings Farm 171ha (more or less)

colliers.co.nz/p-NZL67017499

High performance sheep & beef breeding units

Good balance of contour

Outstanding soil fertility

Rare opportunity to purchase two quality properties, beautifully positioned in the Tutira/ Putorino districts. Both properties have excellent balance of contour, high soil fertility and a consistent history of producing quality livestock. Roundhill Station, comprising 509ha, has been family owned by the vendors since the 1950s and Hartings Farm, at 171ha has been owned by the same family for almost 40 years. The properties are available either as a single purchase, or as separate entities. This is an exceptional opportunity for discerning purchasers wanting to invest in their future, and one not to be missed. Call us today.

Gary Brooks 027 444 3756 gary.brooks@colliers.com Hamish Goodwin 027 291 2156 hamish.goodwin@colliers.com

CRHB Limited Licensed REAA 2008

colliers.co.nz

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 31, 2022

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

TENDER

Absolutely Everything Equine Matamata Tender Closes Thurs 17th Feb (unless sold prior) _______________________________________________

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

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

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

View By Appointment _______________________________________________ Agent Jack Van Lierop 027 445 5099 Glen Murray 027 488 6138

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

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

The home is a modern five bedroom build with an attached double garage, built in 2013 with a heated swimming pool.

LJ Hooker Matamata 07 888 5677 Link Realty Ltd. Licensed Agent REAA 2008

We have been instructed to offer these up for Tender as a Mortgagee sale, closing Thursday 17th February 2022. (unless sold prior)

Call Jack or Glen for more information

RURAL | LIFESTYLE | RESIDENTIAL

NEW LISTING

BROOMFIELD, CANTERBURY Admired By Many - Treasured By One Family! The Estate sale of Mount Brown, 220.4417 hectares (more or less). Subdivided into approximately 30 paddocks and easy downs. Complemented by a vast array of farm infrastructure and a new double-glazed three-bedroom home with internal access garage. Mount Brown is a fantastic property, conservatively farmed and as a result looks to be in very good heart. Located in a good farming area of North Canterbury, well renowned for producing very healthy stock. Your early inspection is highly recommended as property of this calibre and location are extremely sought after. pggwre.co.nz/RAN35214 PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

AUCTION

Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) 2.00pm, Friday 25 February. RSA, 82 Victoria Street, Rangiora

VIEW By Appointment Only Austen Russell M 027 441 7055 E austen.russell@pggwrightson.co.nz Bruce Hoban M 027 588 8889 E bhoban@pggwrightson.co.nz

ALBURY, SOUTH CANTERBURY 'Athlone Station' - Mt Nessing - 2,300 Hectares 'Athlone Station' represents a rare opportunity to purchase a well improved mid-altitude run property. Good mix of contour and land types with 90 hectares of cultivated and well subdivided paddocks that then rises to medium improved tussock hill and further up to higher hill country. 'Athlone' is currently operated as a beef breeding unit running 500 Angus and Angus Hereford cross cows and replacements. The property is also suitable for sheep and has run half breeds. With an extensive fencing subdivision programme undertaken and an excellent stock water scheme sourced on the property.

DEADLINE PRIVATE TREATY

Plus GST (if any) No Prior Offers Closes 1.00pm, Wednesday 2 March

Simon Richards M 027 457 0990 E simon.richards@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz/TIM34961 Helping grow the country

Tech & Toys

farmersweekly.co.nz/advertising 0800 85 25 80

SHEEP JETTER

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 31, 2022

Serving NZ Farmers since 1962

Sheep dipping… made easier!

7680

LK0107793©

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

+ GST

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

Serving NZ farmers since 1962

INNOVATIVE AGRICULTURE EQUIPMENT

0800 901 902

7 NORTH ISLAND AGENTS

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

Northland to Manawatu

10 SOUTH ISLAND AGENTS Nelson to Invercargill

INNOVATIVE AGRICULTURE EQUIPMENT

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

• Skiold Disc Mills and Silos

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

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

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REQUIRE SPARE PARTS? Call PPP and get the BEST price

“How FREE FREIGHT ON ALL PURCHASES OVER $7,000 - GET IN QUICK

Combi Clamp Stock Handling Equipment has been designed with the principles of simplicity and efficiency in the forefront of our minds. We provide safe and effective stock handling solutions for every farm.

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Primary Pathways – Jobs, Education & Training

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 31, 2022

Stock Manager Role

FARM ASSISTANT Over three years experience essential in

JOBS BOARD farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz

This is a hands-on role which requires management of all feed and animal health of livestock on the Farm, regular Farm maintenance and fencing and weed control. The stock work load is seasonal due to a focus on Winter trade so busy Autumn to Spring and steady through Summer allowing a good work life balance.

Agricultural Specialist Farm Assistant Farm Manager

The ideal candidate will: • Have a competent team of dogs. • Be able to work as part of a team, take on responsibility, work autonomously and run modern Farming systems. • Be passionate about feeding stock and achieving high production targets. • Demonstrate good Health and Safety Practices • Have NZ residency or citizenship and a current Full NZ drivers licence. • Have Tractor and machinery experience.

Farm Work General Manager Labourer Livestock Marketing Manager

JW110436©

Stock Manager

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

Contact Debbie Brown 06 323 0765 or email classifieds@globalhq.co.nz JW109661©

If this sounds like an opportunity suited to you please email your covering letter and C.V. to obanstation@gmail.com

SHARE FARMING OPPORTUNITY

Monday to Friday position available on a large dairy farm close to Echuca, 55-60 hours per week. Good salary and overtime paid. Work is interesting and varied, involves maintenance of all machinery and ancillary equipment, and a fair amount of tractor driving. No stock-work. Depending on the time of year, you could be doing any of or all the following: • Maintenance on tractors and feed wagon • Maintenance on plant and equipment • Mowing/raking/carting/chopping silage (mostly grass) • Grading feedlot and laneways • Drilling grass seed • Maintaining fences • Spaying channels • Some maintenance on the dairy • Maintenance of pumps and irrigation infrastructure • Helping with irrigation The successful person with have a good understanding of machinery and how to maintain it. This role could suit some one that is mechanically minded but not necessarily experienced in the farming sector. There is on job training. No on-farm accommodation, but we are only 15km from Echuca where rental options are available. Echuca is a very popular river-side township 200km from Melbourne, with several schools, lots of sports facilities, and two busy shopping precincts.

Please contact me for more information +61400567343 patrick@kanyapellamilk.com.au

Noticeboard

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

DOLOMITE

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 31, 2022

T H IN K PRE B U I L T

CRAIGCO

SHEEP JETTERS

NZ’s finest BioGro certified Mg fertiliser JW110449©

Quality Hereford cows available. Guaranteed incalf to Hereford stud bull. Term starts April, (negotiable). No cost way to increase herd numbers. 50-200 available. Call Mark for more info. 021 330 425

farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz

information about this position.

AG JOBS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

or phone 021 065 8373 for further

LK0110363©

with phone number to:

Comprising of two blocks running a trading and finishing system with breeding component to be added this Autumn and also another block run separately as a sole cattle finishing unit all totalling 1500Ha

20 minute drive from Hastings and on the Local Primary School and Secondary Schools bus route.

Are you a farm worker looking to expand your horizons? Or workshop-bound wanting a job with more variety and some fresh air? Or maybe work on a dairy farm and have a flair for the jobs that don’t involve livestock?

Please email CV and two references

Exciting close to town opportunity, to broaden your skill set in a high production unit.

A newly built three bedroom home and competitive remuneration package to match your skill set is on offer.

Full time maintenance & driving work

milk harvesting, tractor driving etc.

ventureklloyd@gmail.com

Farm Work

Dairy Farm Taranaki

Dry-stock & Finishing Operation Hastings Hawkes Bay

classifieds@globalhq.co.nz

SHEEP JETTERS SINCE 1992

For a delivered price call ....

CRAIGCO SENSOR JET

0800 436 566

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

Heavy duty long lasting Ph 021 047 9299

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.

More classifieds ads over page

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

JW109919©

LK0109558©

Guaranteed Performance Save time and Money . Flystrike and Lice cost $$$ Quick to Set up . Easy to use . Job Done Robust construction. Auto shut gate. Adjustable V panels Total 20 Jets. Lambs 5 jets. Side jets for Lice. Davey Twin Impeller Pump. 6.5 or 9.0 Hp motors

06 8356863 . 021 061 1800

www.craigcojetters.com

Livestock Noticeboard

Noticeboard

ANIMAL HANDLING

DEERLAND TRADING LTD

FARM MAPPING

LIVESTOCK FOR SALE

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

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

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

BOER BREEDING BUCKS for sale by the NZ Boer Goat Breeders Association. Contact 027 496 4777 or view Trademe listing#3430507838 under nzboergoatassn.

DOGS FOR SALE

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.

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

ATTENTION FARMERS 40c/50c PER KG dags fadges/bales. Replacement woolpacks. PV Weber Wools. Kawakawa Road, Feilding. Phone 06 323 9550. RETIRED FARMER looking for deer hunting access. Anywhere in the North Island considered. 50 years hunting experience. Good money paid for the right block. Please ring 027 484 5126.

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

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

12-MONTH HEADING dog and bitch. Fast, strong, good stop, pulling sides. Station and trial potential. Nolan Timmins. Phone 027 932 8839. HEADING BITCH, good nature, 8 months old. Plain eye, works sheep, hard on cattle. Bite and bark. Phone 06 322 9855. HEADING X KELPIE 3mth pups. Sire by Richmond’s ‘Bruce’; dam has Barru stud breeding. Hard on cattle, firm on sheep. Phone 027 449 0048. SUMMER CLEARANCE SALE Huntaways and Headers. Deliver NZ Wide. Trial, Guaranteed! www.youtube.com/user/ mikehughesworkingdog/ videos – 07 315 5553.

DOGS WANTED 12 MONTHS TO 5½-yearold Heading dogs and Huntaways wanted. Phone 022 698 8195. FREE CRATE OF beer with every working dog purchased! Buying NZ wide. email:mikehughesworking dogs@farmside.co.nz 07 315 5553.

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

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

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

LAND WANTED TO BUY COUPLE LOOKING TO retire in the country and require land to purchase to build their forever home. Waikato area. Phone Joyce 021 217 1623.

EARMARKERS

Selling something?

WILTSHIRES-ARVIDSON. Self shearing sheep. No1 for Facial Eczema. David 027 2771 556. PINNACLES WILTSHIRES 2th rams. Ph 06 346 6230, 027 416 8188. WAITOHI WILTSHIRES Est. 2005. Certified organic commercial purebred Wiltshire flock rigorously farmed in North Canterbury, with proven Arvidson Wiltshire genetics (high FE rams last 5 years). All stock (ewe lambs, rams) enquiries: David 027 556 6895.

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) BOOK AN AD. For $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 classifieds@globalhq.co.nz

• Our professional staff can build one for you at competitive prices.

Phone: +64 6 357 2454 HOOF TRIMMER

RAMS FOR SALE

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.

• Over 50 years experience of building quality, durable trailers for New Zealand conditions. LK109878©

DE HORNER

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

WANTED TO BUY

• Farm, Commerical, Private, Flatdeck or Custom Design Trailers

ZON BIRDSCARER

electro-tek@xtra.co.nz

PUMPS

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

Get in early to secure your trailer. Call us now!

STOP BIRDS NOW!

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

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

TRACTOR PARTS

0800 888 323 • www.prescotttrailers.co.nz

Livestock Noticeboard

On Farm Capital Stock Ewe Sale Anerley Station Tinui Valley Road Masterton

Tried, tested, proven and matched perfectly to New Zealand conditions for efficient, cost effective lamb production.

(approx 20km from Tinui Village and will be signposted)

Tuesday 15th February 11.30am start Farm sold – Genuine Capital Ewe Flock Comprising 5000 Ewes • 1200 2 Tooth Romney Ewes • 1200 4 Tooth Romney Ewes • 1100 6 Tooth Romney Ewes • 1000 4 Year Romney Ewes • 500 5 Year Romney x Ewes 2th - 4yr Ewes are Meldrum Romney and Te Mai Iti Romney Under 5 in 1 program toxo/campy/salvexin Last 5 years, 145% lambing (Ewes to ram) off hill country Ewes are shorn Please call for any further info Craig Nelson 021 457 127 Or vendor Hamish & Penny Johnson 06 372 6879

WAIRARAPA TEXEL DEVELOPMENTS

WTD STORE LAMB DIRECT BUY-BACK PLAN Wairarapa Texel Developments is proud to offer this exciting option to our genetic user clients, to sell surplus Texel Cross store lambs directly back to us. For further details regarding this program please contact Andy 027 238 4961. WAIRARAPA TEXEL DEVELOPMENTS THE TERMINATOR -PACKING MEAT

“Meating the Market” With 120 plus Texel 2th rams and 50 plus Suftex 2th rams All fully SIL recorded for sale 2021 Plus – 130 plus ram hoggets available for 2022 ewe hogget mating.

Inspection and enquiry are always welcome, or visit our Facebook page wairarapa texel development Andy 027 238 4961 • halfy490@gmail.com Stewart 06 372 2770 • texels4u@gmail.com

NZ’s Virtual Saleyard

UPCOMING AUCTIONS

Thursday 3rd February 1.00pm Up the Road Dorper Stud Dispersal Sale 1.00pm Kiwitahi Romney Stud Flock Dispersal Sale 7.30pm Strathallan Run Beltex & Blacknose Valais Ram Sale

Tuesday 8th February 12.00pm Glenbrae Stud Annual Wiltshire Sale LK0110059©

ANIMAL HEALTH

GOATS WANTED

STOCK FEED

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

JW0110275©

Wednesday 9th February 1.00pm Tarata Hill Stud & Commercial Sale

Thursday 10th February 1.00pm Moerangi Wiltshires Female Clearing Sale Regular Livestream coverage of five North Island Saleyards Head to bidr.co.nz to find out more.

KIWITAHI ROMNEY STUD FLOCK DISPERSAL

Advertise in Farmers Weekly - the only weekly paper that farmers read and value enough to advertise in themselves.

Hybrid Livestreamed Auctions

This sale will be hosted by bidr® www.bidr.co.nz

Wiltshire On Farm Auction

8th Feb 2022 at 12pm Light Luncheon provided

Phone 0800 85 25 80 or email classifieds@globalhq.co.nz

STUD FLOCK TO BE SOLD THURSDAY 3RD FEBRUARY ON THE PROPERTY - 1PM

D L SO

A/C KIWITAHI TRUST, PADDY & BRIGID LOWRY

1274 POIHIPI ROAD , TAUPO COMPRISING OF: 1000 MA ROMNEY STUD EWES

• The flock to be split into 10 equal lots of 100 • The age split will be even across all lots 2th to 5yr and lots of 100 offered individually • A sample of sheep will be on display on Thursday, 27 February at the Kiwitahi commercial dispersal sale • Unless sold prior Inspection welcome any time please contact: Cam Heggie - Livestock Genetics Rep/Auctioneer | Northern North Island M +64 27 501 8182 | Email camheggie@pggwrightson.co.nz

Approximately

600 Ewe lambs 100 2th ewes

250 Cast for age ewes 30 Ram lambs

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

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

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

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

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.

Paddy Lowry - M 0274 472339 | Richard Lamb - Livestock Representative - M 0274 930 739 farmersweekly.co.nz/enewsletters www.pggwrightson.co.nz

Helping grow the country

Livestock Noticeboard

FARMERS WEEKLY – January 31, 2022

AUTUMN BORN 2021 FRSN HEIFERS F12+: $1700 + GST / head F8-F11’s: $1600 + GST / head F7/Unrecorded: $1400 + GST SPRING BORN 2021 FRSN HEIFERS F12+: $1600 + GST / head F8-F11’s: $1500 + GST / head F7/Unrecorded: $1300 + GST

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

Min Weight 190kg Delivery Date Late April 2022

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

SPECIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: • True to type Friesian Heifers, including the F8-F11 unrecorded heifers.

LK0110284©

• Standard Chinese Protocol, heifers must have been on the property for a minimum of 6 months at the time of delivery.

NORTH & SOUTH ISLAND

PHONE TIM ON 027 443 7420 FOR MORE INFORMATION

Key: Dairy

ON FARM CAPITAL STOCK EWE SALE , SOUTHLAND Thursday, 3rd February, 1.30pm On A/c Jon and Deborah Wood – “Koneburn” 86 Koneburn Road, Waimumu, Gore. Sheep all July shorn: • 1800 Perendale 2th Ewes • 1200 Perendale 2 shear Ewes • 900 Perendale 3 shear Ewes • 700 Perendale 4 shear Ewes • 600 Perendale 5 shear Ewes • 300 Perendale 6 shear Ewes • 35 Perendale 2 & 3 shear Rams Breeding by Heights Stud Shannon, Rob & Heather Gaskin from 1996. Scanning MA Ewes 175%+. Scanning 2th Ewes 160-165%. Lambing unshepherded 140%+. All lambs are finished to 17.8-18.2kg by the end of April. Cull ewes carcass weight 29-32kg average. Ewes mouthed and uddered and belly crutched January 2022. 2 shear and older are all Toxo vaccinated. All Ewes on 5 x 1 vaccination programme. All Ewes drenched Exodus injection August 2021. All Ewes dipped with Cyrex December 2021. Wool July shorn 80-81% yield, 1 of a colour, 37/38 micron. Auctioneers note: Ewes come with a very high recommendation. Greg Clearwater 027 591 8045 John Wood 021 064 5408

[ RAM SALES ] www.pggwrightson.co.nz/ramsales

Cattle

Sheep

Other

MATAWHERO CATTLE SALE Tuesday 15th February, 2022, 11am Special Entry:

A/c Morunga Station, Matawai • 560 2.5yr Ang Strs • 145 2.5yr WF Ang/Hfd Strs • 120 2.5yr Exotic Strs Buying rebate paid to outside companies by prior arrangement. Great opportunity to purchase large lines of well-bred hill country cattle renown for their ability to shift. Contact: Stephen Hickey 027 444 3570 Jamie Hayward 027 434 7586 Watch and Bid from anywhere. More info visit www.bidr.co.nz Hybrid Livestreamed Auctions

TARATA HILL WILTSHIRE ON FARM STOCK SALE Wednesday 9th February Commencing 1.00 pm A/c MT & SM Day and Tom Day 70 Whyle Road, South Hillend Southland (Signposted from SH 6 Centre Bush) Account MT & SM Day • 250 Wiltshire 2th Ewes • 500 Wiltshire AD Ewes • 1300 Wiltshire Ewe Lambs Account Tom Day (All from Stud) • 18 Wiltshire 2th Rams • 30 Wiltshire Ram Lambs • 50 Wiltshire Ewe Lambs • 20 Wiltshire FM Ewes A very good line up of Wiltshire genetics that come highly recommended. Easy care stock that take the stress out of farming. Callum McDonald (PGW Genetics) 027 433 6443 Barry McAlister 027 441 6432 Tom Day 027 585 5048

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

Helping grow the country

They wanted to wool the world So advertising in the Farmers Weekly was a no-brainer.

Contact Ella: 06 323 0761 / 027 602 4925 livestock@globalhq.co.nz farmersweekly.co.nz

SALE TALK Paddy was standing at a railway station with a few minutes to spare when he noticed a speaking weigh machine. Vanity got the better of him because he felt he was in pretty good shape, so he put in 10p and listened. The machine sprang to life. Your name is Paddy O’Reilly, you are 75kg and waiting to catch the 10.45 to Dublin. This was too much for Paddy so he slipped in another 10p into the slot and sure enough the machine repeated the correct information. He couldn’t believe that technology could be that good so he goes around the corner, puts on some shades and walks backwards up to the machine and pops in another 10p. Sir I repeat, your name is Paddy O’Reilly, you are 75kg and whilst messing around here you have missed the 10.45 to Dublin.

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

East Friesian 2th rams, reg for over 20 yrs

LK0110371©

Friday 11th February 2022

Check out Poll Dorset NZ on Facebook

WANTED

Southern Ram Sale

David Giddings (vendor) 027 229 9760

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

True to type, breed under commercial condition in Southland for milking and commercial use with emphasis on conformation. Limited female stock available.

Enquiries 027 444 5379

WAGYU PUREBRED

NEW ZEALAND LTD DISPERSAL FRIDAY 25TH FEBRUARY, 12PM

ACC Client - McCool Family NZ Foundation Purebred Wagyu Herd - Tuakau Saleyards COMPRISING OF (APPROXIMATE TALLIES):

Rising 1s

42 Bulls, 33 Heifers, 16 Steers

Rising 2s

54 Heifers (not mated)

Rising 3s

20 Cows - Run with Full Blood Wagyu Bulls from 24.12.21

2018 - 14 Born

56 Cows - Run with Full Blood Wagyu Bulls from 24.12.21

Older

60 Cows - Run with Full Blood Wagyu Bulls from 24.12.21 BVD free. Unless sold prior.

Hybrid Livestreamed Auctions

This sale will be hosted by bidr® www.bidr.co.nz

Enquiries contact: Richard Healey - M 027 972 7372 | Email rich.healey@pggwrightson.co.nz All livestock must be removed from the Tuakau Saleyards within 24hrs. Normal NZ stock & station terms and conditions apply. Non-account holders - cash, eftpos & internet banking available on day of sale. 1% Rebate to non-participating companies.

Livestock Advertising? Call Ella: 0800 85 25 80 www.pggwrightson.co.nz

Helping grow the country

MARKET SNAPSHOT

Market Snapshot brought to you by the AgriHQ analysts.

Mel Croad

Suz Bremner

Reece Brick

Fiona Quarrie

Hayley O’Driscoll

BEEF

SHEEP MEAT

VENISON

Last week

Prior week

Last year

NI Steer (300kg)

6.10

5.00

NI lamb (17kg)

8.60

8.70

6.50

NI Stag (60kg)

7.15

7.05

5.55

NI Bull (300kg)

6.05

6.10

4.95

NI mutton (20kg)

6.00

6.05

5.00

SI Stag (60kg)

7.15

7.05

5.55

NI Cow (200kg)

4.50

4.60

3.50

SI lamb (17kg)

8.40

6.40

SI Steer (300kg)

6.00

4.50

SI mutton (20kg)

5.90

4.90

SI Bull (300kg)

5.90

4.60

Export markets (NZ$/kg)

SI Cow (200kg)

4.50

3.50

UK CKT lamb leg

13.94

13.87

9.91

US imported 95CL bull

10.27

10.28

7.58

US domestic 90CL cow

9.00

9.03

6.77

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

Last week Prior week

Last year

Export markets (NZ$/kg)

7.0

8.0 7.0 5.0

8.0 7.0

10.0 $/kg CW

South Island lamb slaughter price

9.0 8.0

10.0

4.5

9.0

6.0

8.0

5.0

South Island steer slaughter price

7.0

5.0

5.5

Oct

Dec 5-yr ave

Feb

4.5 Feb

Apr

Jun

2020-21

Dairy

Feb

Apr

Aug 2021-22

Apr 2020-21

Jun

Aug 2021-22

Last week

Prior week

Last year

Fertiliser

Coarse xbred ind.

2.60

2.58

1.98

37 micron ewe

2.48

2.55

30 micron lamb

2.65

2.80

NZ average (NZ$/t)

Prior week

Last year

Urea

1315

1190

619

1.70

Super

368

300

1.70

DAP

1423

1308

799

Top 10 by Market Cap Company

CANTERBURY FEED WHEAT 500

$/tonne

$/kg MS

Jan-21

Mar-21

May-21 Jul-21 Sept. 2021

450 400 350

Sep-21 Nov-21 Jan-22 Sept. 2022

Jan-21

Mar-21

May-21

Jul-21

Sep-21

Nov-21

Jan-22

YTD High

YTD Low

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corporation Ltd

33.4

28.69

Meridian Energy Limited (NS)

4.5

4.97

4.48

Auckland International Airport Limited

7.29

7.885

7.15

Mainfreight Limited

85.7

94.4

83.2

Spark New Zealand Limited

4.36

4.6

4.33

Mercury NZ Limited (NS)

5.81

6.36

5.71

Ebos Group Limited

38.7

43.13

37.45

Contact Energy Limited

7.65

8.15

7.57

Infratil Limited

7.7

8.34

7.5

Fletcher Building Limited

6.54

7.44

6.45

Listed Agri Shares Company

DAIRY FUTURES (US$/T) Nearby contract

CANTERBURY FEED BARLEY Prior week

vs 4 weeks ago

WMP

4340

4185

4070

SMP

3760

3690

AMF

6085

Butter

5250

Milk Price

9.40

9.23

9.01

500

$/tonne

Last price*

450

Jan-21

WMP FUTURES - VS FOUR WEEKS AGO

Mar-21

May-21

Jul-21

Sep-21

Nov-21

Jan-22

4800

450

$/tonne

US$/t

4600 4400 4200 4000 3800 Feb

Mar Apr Latest price

May

Jun 4 weeks ago

Jul

YTD High

YTD Low

ArborGen Holdings Limited

0.24

0.265

0.235

The a2 Milk Company Limited

5.63

5.96

5.31

Comvita Limited

3.45

3.78

3.45

Delegat Group Limited

13.4

14.45

13.34

Fonterra Shareholders' Fund (NS)

3.57

3.78

3.57

Foley Wines Limited

1.53

1.57

1.5

Greenfern Industries Limited

0.25

0.205

1.3

Marlborough Wine Estates Group Limited

0.225

0.26

0.22

New Zealand King Salmon Investments Ltd

1.23

1.38

1.23

PGG Wrightson Limited

5.17

5.75

5.05

Rua Bioscience Limited

0.48

0.53

0.435

Sanford Limited (NS)

4.6

5.07

4.5

5.59

4.9

Seeka Limited

5.15

5.36

5.12

Synlait Milk Limited (NS)

3.15

3.54

3.12

T&G Global Limited

2.86

3.01

2.82

S&P/NZX Primary Sector Equity Index

13505

14293

13505

S&P/NZX 50 Index

12050

13150

12050

S&P/NZX 10 Index

11597

12725

11597

Scales Corporation Limited

WAIKATO PALM KERNEL

400

5pm, close of market, Thursday Close

Livestock Improvement Corporation Ltd (NS)

400 350

* price as at close of business on Thursday

3600

Aug 2021-22

Last week

Grain

Data provided by

MILK PRICE FUTURES 10.00 9.50 9.00 8.50 8.00 7.50 7.00 6.50 6.00

Jun

2020-21

FERTILISER

(NZ$/kg)

Dec

Dec 5-yr ave

WOOL

5.0

5-yr ave

Oct

7.0

6.0

Oct

7.0

6.0

6.5

4.0

South Island stag slaughter price

11.0

5.0

4.0

$/kg CW

9.0

6.0

5.0

5.5

Last year

10.0

6.0

$/kg CW

6.5

Last week Prior week

North Island stag slaughter price

11.0

9.0 $/kg CW

North Island steer slaughter price

North Island lamb slaughter price

10.0

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

$/kg CW

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

Renee Hogg

Deer

Sheep

Cattle

Sara Hilhorst

Caitlin Pemberton Ingrid Usherwood

350 300

Jan-21

S&P/FW PRIMARY SECTOR EQUITY

Mar-21

May-21

Jul-21

Sep-21

Nov-21

Jan-22

13505

S&P/NZX 50 INDEX

12050

S&P/NZX 10 INDEX

11597

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 31, 2022

Analyst intel

WEATHER

Overview A large anticyclone has covered the country since Friday and continues to do so today. This high has brought a period of settled and mostly sunny weather for most regions. Tomorrow the high starts to move out to the east, while a low pressure system starts to descend into the Tasman Sea from the sub-tropics. Midweek the low drops further south, at which point some rain may affect western regions, especially the West Coast of the South Island. Thursday and Friday a front lies over the South Island, bringing heavy rain in the west, with drier weather out east. Next weekend a southwesterly component starts to move in with rain possible for many.

What’s happening with our competitors?

14-day outlook Conditions remain settled, however, a low dropping into the Tasman Sea from the north combined with a high departing out to the east tomorrow spreads a northeasterly airflow over the country; some wet weather affects western regions from Wednesday and this continues on Thursday/ Friday, especially the West Coast. An incoming front from the southwest on Saturday pushes onto the SI before heading north and with it comes rain. This front takes the natural path of clearing away to the northeast early next week. The outlook beyond then is looking mainly settled with high pressure, perhaps a weak front pushing through on around February 10.

Renee Hogg renee.hogg@globalhq.co.nz

Soil Moisture

Highlights

27/01/2022

Wind

Northeasterlies start to freshen up for the upper NI on Tuesday, especially coastal parts. These winds spread southwards on Wednesday, although any strong winds look to stay offshore. On Thursday the airflow tends a bit more to the north and Cook Strait could see blustery northerlies before easing on Friday. Source: NIWA Data

Temperature

7-day rainfall forecast

Expect highs in the mid to late 20s for many regions for the first half of this week. Highs may reach into the early 30s for some inland spots. Thursday and Friday sees hot temperatures for eastern regions due to a more northerly wind direction. The West Coast is a bit cooler thanks to rain and cloudier skies.

Conditions are dry for most, although Tuesday does start to see a few light showers appearing for northeastern parts of the North Island. Wednesday has light showers continue in the northeast, while rain moves into the West Coast of the SI. Rain continues on Thursday/ Friday for the West Coast, with occasional showers for western parts of the NI; eastern regions are dry. Rain for the SI on Saturday moves into the NI on Sunday. 0

Highlights/ Extremes

100

200

400

Rainfall accumulation over seven days from 7am on January 31 till 7am on February 7. Forecast generated at 1am on January 28.

Thursday/Friday rain for the West Coast of the SI may be heavy at times – something to keep an eye on if the area is of interest to you. Temperatures will also be fairly warm this week before we start cooling down from Saturday as a SW front moves in.

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

HE million dollar question facing the New Zealand sheepmeat industry this year is whether the current hot market is sustainable. To help answer that question we looked at local indicators and out to what’s happening with our competitors. Last year, NZ lamb prices climbed to record-breaking levels. Covid-prompted demand coupled with tight global supplies supported strong in-market export prices. The exchange rate also shifted in favour of exports, allowing the positive sentiment to flow into exporter and farmer returns. The average value of total lamb exports in December reached a record high, lifting 31% on 2020 and 27% on the five-year average. Strong market demand looks set to hold prices up at least for the short-term into 2022, however, the impact of the covid-19 pandemic is growing daily and having dire effects on processing facilities globally. The supply chain and markets remain uncertain due to their own pandemic impacts and NZ has yet to have the pandemic directly affect our processing sector. Last year was a great news story for NZ sheepmeat exports and farm gate returns and similar supply and demand dynamics are driving strong prices and small lifts in production in competing sheep-producing countries. The past two years have shown an undeniable increase in demand for lamb in both the United States and China. The growth within these markets for imported sheepmeat from NZ and Australia, in terms of both volume and value, is very encouraging for both the UK and Ireland. Exports of British lamb to the US market can resume this year after more than two decades of restrictions. The USDA has amended the “small ruminant rule”, which prevented imports of lamb from the UK into the US. The amended rule came into force on January 3. It is estimated that this market will be worth £37 million to UK sheepmeat in the first five years of trade. The UK sheep census recorded a 1.7% increase in the UK sheep flock to 15.6 million head, which could increase production as we move into 2022.

Last year was an exceptional year for Irish sheepmeat exports in value terms. Prices continue to be very strong in the early weeks of 2022, with a fairly positive shortterm outlook. Direct access to China and the US remains the focus of the Irish sheepmeat sector, with some positive progress made in advancing access during 2021. Last September Ireland and China signed and exchanged formal protocols that will allow the export of lamb from Ireland to China, the first step towards getting direct access for Irish sheepmeat. There has also been some progress on access for Irish sheepmeat to the US with US authorities lifting a ban on EU sheepmeat in early December 2021.

Continuing friction between the UK and the EU with regards to their trading arrangement has the potential to give NZ exporters further opportunities to grow key EU markets, taking advantage of the exceptionally strong prices available.

The latest forecasts from the EU indicated a 1.5% increase in EU sheepmeat production in 2022. Continuing friction between the UK and the EU with regards to their trading arrangement has the potential to give NZ exporters further opportunities to grow key EU markets, taking advantage of the exceptionally strong prices available. The US is Australian lamb’s top export destination, taking 27% of volume in 2021. China retained second place, taking 24% of 2021 volume. Total volumes for Aussie lamb exports to China in 2021 sit 14.5% above the five-year average. Australian lamb slaughter rates lifted last week, absorbing some of the peak summer supply, but constraints in slaughter capacity are still being felt. Although the lamb market may be showing small signs of recovery from abattoir disruptions, prices are softening with trade lamb and mutton prices falling last week.

Don’t let it rain on your parade.

Next time I’ll check WeatherWatch

Plan your day with WeatherWatch and get New Zealand’s most accurate rain forecasting available across the country, anytime.

DAILY FORECAST

www.weatherwatch.co.nz

SALE YARD WRAP

Anniversary days mix up the weeks Sale yards are back into full swing now and for the most part normal throughput of livestock is being offered. Anniversary days and public holidays mean regions can extend their break and pretend the summer holidays are not nearing the end, but they do mean that sale yards must adapt their weeks to accommodate them. Sales are shuffled around and Feilding prime shifted last week to Tuesday, though the likes of Wellsford will not hold Monday sales for the next two weeks due to Auckland Anniversary and Waitangi Day. However, stock will flow over to the regular Tuesday sale at this yard.

NORTHLAND Kaikohe sale • Yearling Angus-cross steers traded at $3.20-$3.30/kg • A handful of R2 Friesian bulls made $2.75/kg • Weaner Hereford-Friesian heifers, 100kg, achieved $450-$470 There was just a small sale of 250 head at KAIKOHE last Wednesday, PGG Wrightson agent Vaughan Vujcich reported. The yarding mostly consisted of R2 WF steers of which heavier types around 540-570kg fetched $2.90-$3.00 and the next cut of 390-440kg at $3.0-$3.06/kg. The best of the yearling heifers were typically Angus, Angus-Limousin and whiteface which achieved $2.90-$3.00/kg and the balance $2.40-$2.50/kg. Wellsford store cattle • Two-year Hereford-dairy heifers, 471-478kg, were well-contested at $2.74-$2.81/kg • Yearling traditional steers, 293kg, pushed to $3.31/kg • Well-marked yearling Hereford-Friesian heifers, 330-350kg, fetched $2.87-$2.98/kg • Five 154kg weaner Hereford-Friesian steers realised $630 A smaller yarding of 263 cattle was presented at WELLSFORD last Monday. Steer results eased while heifers held. Most 2-year steers, 485-515kg, softened to $2.67$2.77/kg. Yearling dairy-beef steers, 321-375kg, eased to $3.01-$3.05/kg. More heifers were offered, and better dairy-beef lines held at $2.72-$2.82/kg. Hereford-dairy, 335-385kg, settled at $2.63-$2.67/kg. Hereford bulls, 450kg, returned $3.07/kg. Selected autumn-born weaner steers, 243-276kg, traded at $825-$905 with the balance all below these levels. Read more in your LivestockEye.

AUCKLAND Pukekohe cattle • Medium 18-month steers softened to $2.33/kg to $2.62/kg, $880$990 • Small, crossbred weaner steers made $3.38/kg to $4.20/kg, $440$470 • Boner cows varied at $1.83/kg to $2.48/kg, $840-$1350 • Prime bulls realised $1.59/kg to $2.30/kg, $500-$1160 There was a good bench of buyers at PUKEKOHE on Saturday 22nd January though values declined. Prime steers earned $2.54-$2.68/kg, $1370-$1500 and heifers $2.59/kg to $2.84/kg, $1430-$1465. Medium yearling heifers achieved $2.32/kg to $2.88/kg, $690-$800 and small heifers $3.38kg to $4.35/kg, $370-$450.

COUNTIES Tuakau sales • Hereford-Friesian steers, 351kg, made $1055 • Prime beef cows managed $2.04 to $2.19/kg • Heavy prime lambs realised $165-$185 Last week’s store sale at TUAKAU was a very brief affair, PGG Wrightson agent Craig Reiche reported. Only 110 cattle were yarded, including 477kg Angus steers at $2.70/kg and 351kg Hereford-Friesian at $3.00/kg. Hereford-Friesian weaner steers, 110-116kg, made $570-$580 and same breed heifers, 125kg, $480. Stabilizer bulls, 340kg, earned $810. Hereford-Friesian heifers, 423kg, returned $2.60/kg. Wednesday’s 250-head yarding was dominated by boners. Prime steer and heifer numbers were low, and prices firmed slightly. Heavy steers made $2.70-$2.85/kg and medium, $2.55-$2.70/kg. Heavy heifers managed $2.57/kg to $2.71/ kg and medium, $2.48-$2.57/kg. Well-conditioned Friesian cows traded at $1.61/kg to $1.79/kg, medium cows $1.46$1.61/kg and lighter boners, $1.20/kg to $1.46/kg. Medium prime lambs fetched $145-$165 on Monday, with lighter primes at $116-$145 and stores, $64-$119. Heavy prime ewes made $140-$166, medium $112-$140 and light, $60$112.

WAIKATO Frankton cattle 25.1 • Yearling dairy-beef steers, 347-452kg, realised $2.61-$2.69/kg • Yearling Hereford-Friesian heifers, 332kg, fetched $2.65/kg • Four prime Angus-Friesian steers, 681kg, reached $2.91/k PGG Wrightson offered just under 300 cattle at

FRANKTON last Tuesday. Most yearling pens were five head or less which limited interest. Better Friesian steers, 292kg, realised $2.16/kg with 256kg at $1.91/kg. Hereford heifers, 263kg, earned $2.51/kg. Bulls, 268-415kg, traded at $2.41$2.53/kg. Weaner Hereford-Friesian heifers, 113-131kg, softened to $315-$375. Well-marked Friesian bulls, 164kg, managed $515. Better prime heifers, 498-514kg, realised $2.63-$2.66/kg. Hereford-Friesian bulls, 698kg, held at $2.94/kg. Boner Friesian cows, 504-613kg, earned $1.53$1.71/kg. Read more in your LivestockEye. Frankton cattle 26.1 • Most yearling Angus-cross steers, 314-435kg, realised $2.53$2.58/kg • Weaner Friesian bulls, 104-196kg, eased to $310-$440 • Prime Hereford-Friesian heifers, 468-470kg, fetched $2.60/kg to $2.78/kg A good number of buyers turned out at FRANKTON last Wednesday for the 380 head yarding from New Zealand Farmers Livestock. Yearling Friesian bulls, 331kg, firmed to $2.72/kg and 326-333kg traded at $2.67-$2.70/kg. Prime steers, 536-580kg, held at $2.61-$2.73/kg. Six beef-cross, 468kg, topped the heifers at $2.88/kg. Eight Friesian bulls, 545kg, reached $3.10/kg with 680-730kg at $2.81-$2.85/ kg. Jersey, 464-466kg, softened to $2.50-$2.51/kg. Friesian, 586kg, and Jersey-cross, 541kg, were the best of the boner cows at $1.65/kg while Friesian-cross, 412-494kg, traded to a $1.41/kg price ceiling. Read more in your LivestockEye.

KING COUNTRY Te Kuiti cattle and sheep • Better prime 2-tooth ewes made $111 • Cows, 447kg, sold to $2.03/kg, $910 • Yearling South Devon steers, 425kg, fetched $2.79/kg Results were mixed at the TE KUITI sheep sale last Wednesday. Better prime lambs earned $153-$167 with the bulk $140-$157 and smaller lambs $130-$138. Store lambs were more difficult to move and most were round $97. Dry conditions limited buyers for cattle on Friday. Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers, 481kg, achieved $2.92/kg, $1405 and 513kg $2.70/kg.

BAY OF PLENTY Rangiuru cattle and sheep • 18-month Hereford-Friesian steers, 326kg, earned $3.07/kg • 18-month Hereford-Friesian heifers made $2.54/kg • Most prime cattle over 480kg fetched $2.52/kg to $2.66/kg • Top ewes managed $149 while lambs traded up to $158 The store line-up was well-supported by local buyers at RANGIURU last Tuesday. No 2-year cattle were present, and most were 18-month. Hereford-Friesian and AngusFriesian steers, 376-384kg, earned $2.84-$2.90/kg while Angus and Charolais-cross, 307-419kg, returned $2.64$2.70/kg. In the prime pens a large contingent of HerefordJersey heifers, 436-471kg, made $2.37-$2.48/kg. Read more in your LivestockEye.

POVERTY BAY Matawhero sheep • Mixed-age Romney store ewes achieved $142 • Store mixed-sex lambs earned $83-$91 • Store cryptorchid lambs made $123 • Wiltshire rams realised $400-$420 • Heavy prime ewes sold to $182-$208, medium $146-$170 and light $127 Store male lambs improved at MATAWHERO last Friday with the best to $125-$128 and the balance $97-$106. The top end of the ewe lambs reached $105 and the balance $90. Better prime lambs improved to $170-$198, medium $128-$155 and light $92-$102. Read more in your LivestockEye.

TARANAKI Taranaki cattle • Better R2 Hereford-Friesian steers, 507kg, reached $2.82/kg • Most yearling heifers were good buying at $2.40/kg to $2.60/kg • 18-month Jersey bulls, 350-430kg, earned $2.65-$2.70/kg

• 2.5-year Jersey bulls realised $1200-$1400, $2.65-$2.70/kg Dry conditions kept the handbrake on store cattle at TARANAKI last Wednesday. The bulk of the 2-year steers sold in a range of $2.81-$2.91/kg. Two-year heifers were limited and 465kg Hereford-Friesian improved to $2.77/ kg. Yearling steers included nice lines of special entry Hereford/Speckle Park/Shorthorn which earned $2.83$2.91/kg while the next cut was typically $2.50/kg to $2.64/ kg. Prime steers made $2.90/kg to $3.05/kg and boner cows mostly $1.71/kg to $1.85/kg. 2.5-year Hereford bulls met good demand and reached $1900-$2600, $3.20/kg to $3.35/ kg. Read more in your LivestockEye.

HAWKE’S BAY Stortford Lodge prime sheep • Heavy to very heavy mixed-age ewes firmed to $156-$174 • Light-medium to very good 2-tooth ewes traded at $75-$133 • Heavy to very heavy mixed-sex lambs fetched $160-$170 Ewes numbered just under 1500 head at STORTFORD LODGE last Monday and most mixed-age were either very good or light-medium. Good to very good ewes held at $130-$148 as did light to light-medium at $70.50-$115. A small lamb section had good types ease on the sale prior, back to $138-$155. Heavy ram lambs improved to $157$164. Four good ewe lambs managed $139. Read more in your LivestockEye. Stortford Lodge store cattle and sheep • 2.5-year traditional steers, 539-567kg, eased to $3.11-$3.16/kg • Two-year Hereford-Friesian heifers, 447-497kg, sold for $2.71$2.75/kg • 18-month Hereford heifers, 317-370kg, varied from $2.84/kg to $2.97/kg • Shorn wether lambs from Chatham Islands traded from $70 to $109.50 • Good whiteface cryptorchid sold for $107-$112 Cattle tallies were moderate at STORTFORD LODGE last Wednesday, yet some quality lines were penned. Empty Hereford cows and heifers from the Chatham Islands sold for $2.23-$2.27/kg. Lamb numbers were also moderate and top cuts eased though medium types held or firmed. Light and medium cryptorchid made $86-$100, and whiteface mixed-sex sold within a similar range. Lighter ewe lambs held at $63-$74. Read more in your LivestockEye. Stortford Lodge supplementary ewe fair • Top 2-tooth Romney made $190-$269 • Capital stock 4-6-tooth Wiltshire sold for $222-$292 • Top 5-year Perendale and Romney fetched $180-$191 STORTFORD LODGE finished off the ewe fair season last Tuesday with a yarding of 4700. It was a solid finish though lines sold to type and quality. The balance of the 2-tooth Romney returned $130-$156 and a pen of Wiltshire made $280. Four-year Romney sold for $198.50-$200 and most other 5-year, $148-$168. Mixed-age ranged from $130 to $242. Read more in you LivestockEye. Dannevirke ewe fair • The bulk of the 5-year ewes earned $140-$160 There was a yarding of around 2000 ewes at DANNEVIRKE last Thursday and buyers were mostly local and from Hawkes Bay. The tally mostly consisted of 5-year ewes and the best price was received by heavy Romney’s with good mouths which reached $165.

MANAWATŪ Feilding prime cattle and sheep • Very heavy ewes reached $226 There was plenty of action in the sheep pens at FEILDING last Tuesday. Most lambs were mixed-sex and very heavy managed $174-$184 while heavy returned $155-$171. Most ewes ranged from $90 to $139. Cattle volume was low with the main highlight a small selection of Hereford and Murray Grey bulls that made $3.00-$3.05/kg. Angus cows, 592kg, contributed most of the remainder and traded at $2.09/kg. Read more in your LivestockEye. Feilding store sale

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 31, 2022

last Monday. Hereford-Friesian steers, 495-625kg, returned $3.16-$3.26/kg and same breed heifers of local trade condition varied from $2.75/kg to $2.97/kg. Prime Angus cows made $2.33-$2.36/kg and heifers, 509-543kg, $3.19$3.24/kg. A moderate yarding of sheep had mixed results. Prime lambs firmed and most earned $141-$195 while ewes held at $103 to $197 for the majority. Read more in your LivestockEye. Temuka store cattle • Two-year Hereford-Friesian steers, 510-534kg, topped their section at $3.11-$3.16/kg • Quality yearling Angus and Angus-Hereford steers, 415kg, pushed to $3.35/kg • Yearling Angus heifers, 259-312kg, held at $2.95-$3.01/kg • Yearling Speckle Park-Friesian bulls, 371kg, reached $3.02/kg Throughput increased to 1128 head at TEMUKA store cattle sale last Thursday. Hereford-Friesian dominated the yearling steer pens and all 208-365kg returned $3.04/kg to $3.31/kg. Same breed heifers, 205-385kg, earned $2.81/kg to $3.02/kg. An increased bull yarding meant buyers could be selective. Friesian, 274-389kg, realised $2.79/kg to $2.96/ kg. Dairy-beef bulls, 331-371kg, softened to $2.90-$2.99/ kg and 303-308kg, $2.45-$2.53/kg. Autumn-born weaner traditional heifers, 289-353kg, realised $855-$1020 and dairy-beef, 227-265kg, $630-$720. Dairy-beef bulls, 234309kg, fetched $570-$785. Weaner Hereford-Friesian steers, 91-110kg, eased to $420-$460. Same breed heifers, 83151kg, fetched $350-$440. Friesian bulls, 96-146kg, traded at $350-$470. Read more in your LivestockEye.

SOUTHLAND TOP SPOT: Border Leicester-Romney have held the top spot at the Temuka two-tooth fair for at least 10 years. • • • •

Three-year South Devon steers, 655kg, made $3.07/kg Yearling traditional steers, 365-395kg, sold for $3.20-$3.35/kg Yearling straight-beef heifers, 435-445kg, were $2.90/kg Store lambs averaged $100 Only 450 store cattle were yarded at FEILDING. Twoyear Hereford steers, 485-590kg, were $2.90-$3.05/kg while 500-535kg Jersey bulls made $2.85-$3.05/kg. Yearling Simmental-cross and Hereford steers, 410-480kg, were $3.10/kg while 325-405kg Hereford-Friesian heifers sold for $2.70/kg. Weaner Hereford-Friesian steers, 180-200kg, made $650-$690 while 130-160kg heifers of the same breed were $490-$500. The market continued its weaker tone on the 6000 store lambs. Good male and mixed-sex lambs were primarily sold at $115-$125, mediums $100-$110, lights $75-$90, and a few tail-enders $40-$70. Most were shorn. For ewe lambs, decent shorn types were $105-$110, while mediums were $85-$95, and the rest $55-$80. Read more in your LivestockEye. Rongotea cattle • Three-year Friesian bulls, 670kg, made $3.06/kg • 18-month Hereford-Friesian heifers, 363-435kg, earned $2.34$2.41/kg • Yearling Hereford-Friesian steers fetched $2.76/kg and better heifers $2.22/kg • Weaner Hereford-Friesian heifers, 149-168kg, achieved $460-$510 • Boner cows sold at $1.34/kg to $1.59/kg Dry conditions and tight processing space put the brakes on the store cattle market at RONGOTEA last Tuesday, New Zealand Farmers Livestock agent Darryl Harwood reported. Two-year Hereford-Friesian steers, 473-515kg, made $2.64$2.74/kg and 410-499kg heifers varied from $2.46/kg to $2.82/kg. Two-year Friesian bulls, 422kg, earned $2.54/kg and 425kg Jersey $2.42/kg.

CANTERBURY Canterbury Park cattle and sheep • Good prime heifers above 500kg firmed to $3.29/kg • Better bulls earned $3.00/kg to $3.12/kg

• Yearling Hereford-Friesian and Speckle Park-Friesian mixed-sex realised $2.92/kg • Very heavy prime lambs made $202-$207 with the balance $125$199t Prime cattle totalled 150 head at CANTERBURY PARK last Tuesday and top end steers lifted to $3.38-$3.41/kg. Quality lifted in the store pens and 344kg Angus pure steers fetched a premium at $3.46/kg. Two-year heifers, 333-347kg, traded at $2.65-$2.72/kg. Sheep tallies eased and heavier store lambs were most popular. Heavier types reached $110$114, medium $90-$109 and lighter types typically $70-$80. Prime ewes improved at the top end with heavy pens $195$246, medium $120-$190 and lighter types $70-$118. Read more in your LivestockEye. Coalgate cattle and sheep • Two-year Hereford-Friesian heifers, 431kg, earned $3.14/kg • Prime Angus steers, 466-642kg, managed $3.21-$3.31/kg • Prime traditional heifers, 518-600kg, returned $3.18-$3.23/kg • Prime lambs mostly made $141-$205 and ewes were usually $120-$240 Dairy-beef cattle performed well in the store pens at COALGATE last Thursday. The yearling steers were dominated by 15- or 16-month Hereford-Friesian and most 341-439kg pens managed $3.08/kg to $3.24/kg. A single 343kg pen of Hereford-Friesian heifers also made $3.19/kg. Weaner dairy-beef steers and bulls over 120kg often made $430-$470. Most medium store lambs sold within a tight range of $100-$124 with a small pen slightly higher at $131. Read more in your LivestockEye.

SOUTH-CANTERBURY Temuka prime and boner cattle, all sheep • Angus steers, 495-580kg, sold for $3.20-$3.27/kg • Hereford bulls, 483-770kg, held at $3.14-$3.23/kg • Jersey bulls, 458-493kg, varied from $2.74/kg to $2.93/kg • Perendale and Coopdale wether lambs made $121 • Medium mixed-sex lambs came back to average $110 TEMUKA offered up a mainly steady prime cattle market

Lorneville cattle and sheep • Heavy prime ewes lifted to $170-$254, medium $140-$165 and light $122-$132 • Yearling Friesian bulls, 480kg, made $2.60/kg, $1250 • Yearling Hereford-cross heifers, 354kg, earned $2.54/kg, $900 • Boner cows above 550kg fetched $2.00-$2.10/kg • Prime bulls above 550kg realised $2.70-$2.80/kg Heavy prime lambs firmed to $158-$194 at LORNEVILLE last Tuesday with medium at $129-$150 and light $106$125. In the store pens, the top pens held at $115-$125, while medium eased to $85-$100 and light mostly $60-$75. Prime steers above 500kg lifted to $2.90-$3.00/kg and better heifers up to $2.90/kg. Weaner calves dominated the store pens. Good Friesian bulls, 172kg, traded at $500 and lighter types $350. Hereford-cross bulls above 130kg sold at $450$500 and 120kg, $350.

South Island on-farm lamb sales Southland buyers were noted for their absence at recent North Otago and Southland on-farm sales as the dry conditions bit. Last Wednesday’s sales started at Longlands Station, Ranfurly and prime lambs sold for $150-$167. Forward store made $115-$133 and the balance, $70-$90. KINROSS RUN LTD sale followed and 1000 Romney-Suftex mixed-sex reached a top price of $147 and most of the balance sold for $80-$123 to mainly central and south Otago buyers. Halfbred wether lambs made $100. The market was similar at CAITHNESS RUN where 1300 Romney wether and Poll Dorset-Romney mixed-sex were penned. DOUBLE HILL STATION in Rakaia Gorge sold a total of 6400 lambs last Thursday. Prime mixed-sex lambs sold for $131-$172 and store Suffolk-cross mixed-sex $100$127. Perendale cryptorchid returned $100-$130 and ewe lambs, $107. On Wednesday 19th January 5400 lambs were offered at Waterloo Station, Mossburn. Romney cryptorchid reached $147 and the balance $87-$118. Romney ewe lambs sold for $105 to Cheviot. Most lambs sold outside the area to North Otago and Canterbury.

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Markets

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – January 31, 2022 NI BULL

SI STEER

SI LAMB

($/KG)

6.05

6.00

8.40

YEARLING TRADITIONAL STEERS, 365-395KG, AT FEILDING ($/KG LW)

3.27

$216-$278 high $222-$292 2-tooth Coopdale ewes Wiltshire ewes lights 4-6-tooth at Temuka Ewe Fair at Stortford Lodge Ewe Fair

Strong start to SI sales

ACROSS THE RAILS SUZ BREMNER

Tradition and condition drives Border-Romneys

Annette Scott and Suz Bremner

ORE than 25,000 lambs and ewes were sold across two days of on-farm sales in Rakaia Gorge that were wellsupported by buyers despite the wet start last Thursday. “We saw predominantly regular buyers who know they are buying from sheep with good genetics and lambs with renown shifting ability,” Hazlett livestock manager Ed Marfell said. “It was a bit sticky to start with the wet (weather) but the sun shone before the two days were out.” Young stock had lacked the sun and heat in late November and through December and the maternal lambs showed the effects but everyone walked away happy, he said. The first sale at High Peak Station sold 1600 Suffolk-Perendale mixed sex lambs ranging from $112-$159, with 1500 Perendale crypt lambs selling from $88-$138 and ewe lambs $83-$105. Cast for age (CFA) Perendale ewes made up to $181. Snowden Station offered 7000 lambs

We saw predominantly regular buyers who know they are buying from sheep with good genetics and lambs with renown shifting ability. Ed Marfell Hazlett all up, with Suffolk-Perendale crypt lambs selling from $134-$205, ewe lambs $130-$176, while Perendale crypt lambs ranged from $80-$133. Perendale CFA ewes sold from $154$185. Mt Oakden Station sold 1450 Suftex X mixed-sex lambs ranging in price from $105-$189, while 1500 Romney crypt lambs sold from $100-$165.

THE North Island ewe fair season is starting to wind down and South Island sales are now a focus, but there is a very clear preference emerging and that has created a large void between the top lines and the rest. North Island fairs have moved into selling mainly supplementary ewes and while the top lines have reached similar levels seen on annual draft or bigger lines sold earlier in the month, the balance has met resistance. In the South Island, Temuka kicked off with a twotooth fair and PGG Wrightson agent Jonty Hyslop saw very little appetite for farming young ewes. “There was a noted reduction in the buying bench and no new entrants coming forward. Part of that can be attributed to the limited attendance numbers allowed under covid protocols, but there also seems to be a disengagement for buying young ewes. Farmers have made good returns on cull ewes, but that did not flow through into the younger ewe market,” Hyslop said. Good quality Coopdale two-tooths sold for $216-$278 and Romney were consistent at $220-$258, though one small line pushed to $318. Perendale sold for $195-$252. Border Leicester-Romney, guaranteed first-cross, have held the top spot at the Temuka two-tooth fair for at least 10 years, but there is a bit of a story behind that which sets them apart from the rest. Three main vendors supply this market and have done so for many years, though due to a farm sale that number will reduce to two in the coming years. The two-tooths are farmed to target this fair on highquality pasture and come to market in prime condition to be met on the rails by a stalwart of buyers each year. It is tradition and condition that pushes these ewes to seemingly astronomical heights, consistently selling head and shoulders above everything else. But the market is led by the small contingent of buyers who are there for the sole purpose of buying these ewes. At the recent two-tooth fair, the top two pens made $330-$334, bettered only by 2019 results at $351-$355. The past four years has seen the top lines exceed $300 as the small but determined buying bench adjusted their budgets in unison. The big step up in price came in 2019 as they climbed from $177-$270 in 2018 to $292-$320. Prior to that $150-$190 was common, but as breeding ewes increased in price across the board these kept their top spot. The Temuka adult ewe fair on February 2 will test to see if the older ewes can muster up more interest than their younger sisters.

FULL PENS: There was good turnout of buyers at the recent on-farm sales in Rakaia Gorge, which saw 25,000 heads sold. Photo: Hazlett Livestock/Facebook Peak Hill Station offered 3700 lambs, with Suffolk-Perendale mixed sex lambs selling from $122-$208, males sold for $135-$158 and ewe lambs, $122-$150. Perendale crypt lambs made $104-$168 and ewe lambs $112. Friday saw Ben Lea, on account of S&C Bell, sell 2800 Suftex X mixed sex lambs fetching a top price of $184 with lighter lambs selling down to $108. One thousand four hundred and fifty Romney crypt lambs ranged from $94-$149, with 540 Romney CFA ewes selling from $148-$184. Bayfields, on account of R&A Bell, sold the tops of 1550 Suftex X mixed sex lambs at $200, with smaller lambs selling upwards of $117, while 800 Romney crypt lambs made $114-$140 and CFA Romney ewes $206. Meanwhile, Australian White Dorper sheep attracted strong interest at the inaugural open shedding sheep sale at the Hawarden sale yards in North Canterbury. There was a good gallery of buyers

REPORTS SO ACCURATE, EVEN THE LIVESTOCK TAKE NOTICE.

to this first ever sale and while the Wiltshires made good money, the Aussie White Dorpers topped the sale; there was a lot of interest in them, Hazlett livestock agent Alby Orchard said. “With 550 Wiltshire and Dorper sheep offered for sale, it wasn’t a big yarding of sheep, but it is hoped the sale will grow in coming years,” Orchard said. A good gallery of buyers from Southland to Kaitaia and central and North Canterbury created many purchases, with most buyers wanting smaller lines. The White Dorper rams sold at $800, while a line of White Dorper ewe lambs fetched $500-560. In the Wiltshires, 250 ewe lambs made $95-$170; 160 two-tooth ewes fetched $320-$340; 250 mixed aged adult ewes made $230-$300, while 12 two-tooth meat master rams sold from $400-$75 and eight Wiltshire ram lambs made $320-$550.

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Farmers Weekly NZ January 31 2022

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