Farmlander September 2019 by Farmlands

SPECIAL OFFERS AND INFORMATION FOR FARMLANDS SHAREHOLDERS

SEPTEMBER 2019 Valid from 1–30 September 2019

The FARMLANDER LADIES’ NIGHTS ARE BACK PAGE 5

BUCK SHELFORD TALKS MEN’S HEALTH

SURVIVORS ASSEMBLE MEN COMBAT CANCER TOGETHER PAGE 10

7802 1047 MAY EXP 0991 6005 LDER RD HO AM CA RD HOLDER CA ANDY 780 911047

GREAT CARD PARTNER DEALS INSIDE!

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PAGE 8

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

SEPTEMBER

INTEREST

PLAN365

Farmlands staff profile

From the CEO

Equine Cushing’s disease

Ladies’ Nights return with global outlook

Supplementary feeding cows through mating

Getting the best out of your backyard flock

5 minutes with Buck Shelford

Special Feature – Which gate marks your fate?

Blue change-up signals solidarity

We need your support

Murray looks forward to co-operative’s future

The right frame of mind

Flu fighters

Farmlands Real Estate grows its West Coast presence

Plan365 Nutrition

6-20

Plan365 Forage and Arable 39

Soil testing 101

Do it once, do it right

Slug control a key element of crop protection programmes

Lambs flourish on high-energy summer herb

Quality summer feed yields milk gains

SEPTEMBER

Plan365 Animal Management What vitamins should I use at tailing?

Buying Power Promise

How quality silage inputs affect your bottom line

Safe management of hazardous goods on-farm

Spring time means possum time

New tank and free fuel set shareholders up for spring

Biosecurity tips for calf club

Century Farms – A family focus in Hunterville

Real Estate market update

Farmlands Real Estate

23-29 SEPTEMBER

Mental Health Awareness Week

SPECIAL OFFERS AND INFORMATION FOR

FARMLANDS SHAREHOLDERS

SEPTEMBER 2019

The FARMLANDER PAGE 6

SIGNALLING YOUR SUPPORT ON FARM

MEN COMBAT CANCER TOGETHER PAGE 8

6005

0991

HOLDER HOLDER AM CARD CARD ANDY

911047780

The information contained in this publication is given in good faith and has been derived from sources perceived to be reliable and accurate. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and correctness of the information, Farmlands gives no warranties, express or implied, regarding the information nor does it accept any liability for any opinion or information (including the accuracy or completeness thereof) or for any consequences flowing from its use. The information and views expressed in this publication

1047

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MAY

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INSIDE!

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PAGE 17

SURVIVORS ASSEMBLE

To find out more about Mental Health Awareness Week, visit www.mentalhealth.org.nz

ON THE COVER

Valid from

1–30 September 2019

BUCK SHELFORD TALKS MEN’S HEALTH

2 | THE FARMLANDER

Voting open for the shareholder calendar photo competition Vote for your favourite photo by visiting www.farmlands.co.nz/calendar

WHAT’S ON

Bruce Avery is a prostate cancer survivor. As a retired farmer he doesn’t get that folks invest in their animals but won’t visit a GP themselves. Bruce and fellow Manawatu battler, Tony Curran, were saved by their annual check and tap into a support network to get through. Read more on page 10.

are not necessarily the views or opinion of Farmlands, its editorial contributors, freelancers, associates or information providers. Independent advice is recommended before acting on information or suggestions contained herein. Readers who rely on this information do so at their own risk. Reference to any specific commercial product, process, or service whether by trade name, trademark, manufacture, or otherwise does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Farmlands.

SEPTEMBER Nationwide Blue Do Join Farmlands in the fight against prostate cancer. Keep an eye out for a Blue Do happening near you!

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of the publisher. Prices and offers apply only in the month stated on the front cover of this publication and while stocks last. Not all products are available at all Farmlands stores. All prices include GST unless otherwise stated.

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FARMLANDS STAFF PROFILE Marie Otley Q: What is your current role at Farmlands? A: Real Estate Salesperson, based in Timaru. Q: What do you enjoy about your job? A: The versatility and I love meeting clients. Q: What type of work were you doing before? A: I was a self-employed Human Resources Consultant and I’ve been very lucky that some of my old clients have brought their real estate business to me here at Farmlands! Q: What would you do if you won $100,000? A: Finish off renovating my house and enjoy a weekend away with my husband Mike (ideally somewhere nice and warm). Q: What is your favourite sport? A: It was cricket until the disaster of the World Cup! Q: Past or present, who would you like to meet? What would you say? A: I would really like to meet the special man or woman who invents the cure for cancer and I would like to say: “thank you for sticking at it”.

FROM THE CEO Welcome to the September issue of The Farmlander. This month our magazine looks at safety, wellbeing and our partnership with Blue September. Last year with the support of our shareholders, Farmlands raised $93,000 for the Prostate Cancer Foundation. We were pleased with the contribution we donated on behalf of our shareholders but I think we can do better. My challenge to us all this year is to see how much over $100,000 we can get. We have a range of initiatives to support this, from blue bale wrap to in-store events and special edition bags. Proceeds from Blue September go towards the Foundation’s research and support services. Our partnership with Blue September ties in with our first strategy: Ensuring our people come first. Our people includes our shareholders. We have introduced a range of initiatives to support our local communities, including flu vaccinations and participation in the Goodyarns programme. The first battle for us in the fight against prostate cancer is to take away any stigma that stops people from having a conversation about their own health. We are a nation of strong, silent types. It’s great to have someone of the standing of Buck Shelford speaking to The Farmlander about the need to talk about men’s health.

Marie’s Braised Lamb Shanks

To take our co-operative from good to great, we need to make sure our shareholders are not only successful but safe. The busy spring trading season brings plenty of opportunities for our shareholders. Those opportunities should not come at the expense of wellbeing.

Ingredients • • • • • • •

2 Tbsp flour Salt and pepper to taste 8 lamb shanks 3 Tbsp oil 4 whole garlic heads, halved 2 Tbsp of tomato paste 1 tsp brown sugar

• • • •

A few drops of hot pepper sauce 1 ½ cups of a full-bodied red wine 1 cup of port 2 sprigs of rosemary (stalks removed and leaves chopped) • 2 cups of beef or lamb stock

Method

Finally, I would like to thank shareholders for their support as we reach a critical juncture in our Braveheart Programme. The coming weeks and months are a busy time for our people, as they balance supporting our shareholders with utilising our new system. While we appreciate your patience, we remain committed to providing you with all the goods, services and technical expertise you would expect from the business that you own. All the best for the month ahead.

1. Preheat oven to 180oC. Place the flour, salt and pepper in a clean plastic bag, add shanks and shake to lightly coat. 2. Heat oil in a large, heavy-based pan and brown the shanks in batches. Then transfer to a large baking dish with the garlic halves.

Kind regards,

3. Discard excess fat from pan, add tomato paste and cook for a minute or two to allow the flavour to develop. Add the remaining ingredients and bring to a fast simmer. 4. Stir well to lift any pan sediment, then pour over the shanks, cover and bake for 2 hours or until very tender.

Peter Reidie

5. Serve shanks with buttery potato mash, peas and green beans. Pour over remaining sauce and garlic halves.

Chief Executive Officer Farmlands Co-operative Society Limited

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THE FARMLANDER | 3

One entry per $5,000 spent. *Visit www.ballancebullseye.co.nz for full Terms and Conditions. Open to Farmlands shareholders. All orders must be uplifted and invoiced before 02 November 2019. Promotion runs 02 September 2019 to 02 November 2019. One (1) entry in the draw for every $5,000 of spend on Ballance products in a single transaction on a Farmlands account. If multiple winners drawn in any Daily Draw the prize will be shared equally.

4 | TH THE EF FARMLANDER A

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LADIES’ NIGHT

Ladies’ Nights return with global outlook Farmlands’ immensely popular Ladies’ Night series has returned, helmed by broadcasting personalities Ben Hurley and Annabelle White.

celebrating life and making things

The dynamic duo is promising a night of food, facts and fun with their show Around the World. The evening will be filled with handy tips and tricks on travel, calling on the well-travelled pair’s own globetrotting experiences.

than alcohol! You cannot imagine

It will be a highly interactive night, with a chance to win great prizes and have lots of laughs. Annabelle is a familiar face to many shareholders, having participated in the Ladies’ Nights series before. She says she jumped at the chance to come back for her third Ladies’ Night road trip because the series continues to come up with something that is completely different. “It’s a travel show that will be fun and informative. It’s all about

easier for everyone,” she says. “I simply love being in the room with all those wonderful women – it’s the perfect tonic and it’s better how rewarding it is to be in a room with such incredibly inspirational women. It’s so real, so authentic and so personally rewarding. “We have so many laughs!”

“

It’s a travel show that will be fun and informative. It’s all about celebrating life and making things easier for everyone. While Annabelle is a seasoned Ladies’ Night traveler, this will be Ben’s first time appearing at the event. He knows provincial New Zealand very well, having been on the comedy circuit for 18 years. “I’ve been up and down this country plenty of times and know it intimately,” he says. “I hear there are a lot of bubbly minds and bubbly people at Ladies’ Nights.” Ben brings an impeccable balance between globetrotting and rural Kiwi life to the show. Having travelled to most parts of the world after spending his formative years in Taranaki, he now combines regular comedy gigs with a

| Ben Hurley.

rural block in Bay of Plenty, complete with sheep, kiwifruit and avocados. “I’m going to leave what people can expect from the show as a mystery. But obviously I’ve been employed to be the Magic Mike eye candy for the night.” The Ladies’ Night series offers a chance to get away for the night, with great food (a sit down meal is included in the $40 ticket price), opportunities to shop around the latest offers from Farmlands Card Partners and guaranteed good times. Dates and locations for Ladies’ Nights can be found on pages 6-7. Tickets are available from www.farmlands.co.nz/ ladiesnight, by calling 0800 200 600 or by visiting your local Farmlands store.

| Annabelle White.

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THE FARMLANDER | 5

d n u o r A LADIES’ NIGHT 2019

WITH BEN HURLEY AND ANNABELLE WHI

GREATS! PRIZE

DATES Tuesday 15th October ................... Hamilton Claudelands Wednesday 16th October .............Tauranga Stadium Lounge, Trustpower Baypark Thursday 17th October ..............Whangarei Northland Events Centre Monday 21st October ....................... Napier Napier War Memorial and Conference Centre Tuesday 22nd October......Palmerston North Conference and Function Centre Wednesday 23rd October ...New Plymouth TSB Showplace – Theatre Royal

FAR_09022

Proudly supported by

6 | THE FARMLANDER

Book your ticket www.farmlands.co.nz/ladiesn

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d l r o W e d th ? BE-TROT O L G O T HOT , hilarious a y c n a F ight out n d e l l fi prize girls? with the

WHITE

JOIN TWO OF NEW ZEALAND’S MOST BELOVED PERSONALITIES FOR SOME SIDE-SPLITTING TALES OF HOLIDAY (MIS)ADVENTURE, AS THEY TIKI TOUR THE ABC’S OF TRAVEL. IT WILL BE OUT OF THIS WORLD!

TICKETS

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INCLUDES A COMPLIMENTARY DRINK AND A DELICIOUS MEAL DOORS OPEN 6.00PM

kets today by visiting esnight or calling 0800 200 600 WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER | 7

5 minutes with Buck Shelford All Blacks legend and Ambassador, Prostate Cancer Foundation NZ. You’ve been very open about your own health journey.

The game of rugby is in your total control – including whether you win or lose. Cancer is a minefield as no one really knows all the answers. It feels like you are always on tenterhooks… not knowing what might happen.

little documentation on the

You wrote a book on men’s health, ‘The Real Bloke’s Guide to Getting Healthy and Living Longer’, what are the most relevant messages from that for shareholders?

walls concerning men’s cancer

• See your doctor yearly.

e.g. prostate and testicular.

• Eat real food (there is a lot of crap out there) to keep your body strong.

What made you do that? While I was going through my treatment I noticed that there was very

So, I decided to join up with the Prostate Cancer Foundation and I’m still here today – 12 years after my blast with cancer. What response to your story have you had from the public?

do spend a lot of time talking about health and wellbeing. I believe our lifestyles determine many of the choices we make regarding diet, exercise, doctors and so on, especially after our 30’s and moving into our 40’s. Where we sit in the income bracket can determine how we live our lives. I talk to a lot of people and they all agree with where I’m coming from. How do you compare having cancer to being a world-class athlete? Finding out you have some form of cancer is never good news as we don’t know much about it. It will be the hardest battle most people will ever face.

8 | THE FARMLANDER

I’m a townie! But whenever I chat to farmers the talk is usually about rugby; it is rare that you talk about cancer. I do appreciate that most farmers have very unsociable lives as they work long hours but the ones I played rugby with were always a joy to be around. What is the single biggest thing that you have found contributes to your wellbeing?

• Keep exercising until the day you check out.

Exercise can be anything you want – it is time away from work, the family and you can concentrate just on you. That is like my ‘man cave’ time.

• Communicate with your family, friends and work colleagues about a possible diagnosis of cancer. It is not just you that it affects.

From a female perspective, what’s a good way to raise prostate checks with your man so he takes action?

My story of having Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma is very short but I

What interaction have you had with farmers?

“

Women are great as they are more aware of their bodies than men. They just need to talk about the issues at hand as there is no hiding from this disease – it is not just him that is affected. Do you believe having a positive outlook can help you to recover from illness faster or with better results? Positivity is a must – you have to live in a positive environment. Negativity can make things a lot worse when you are working to defeat a disease. Some survivors have had a doctor refuse to do one of the prostate tests – what should a bloke do in that instance? If your GP disagrees with tests, find yourself another doctor. I have heard

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BLUE SEPTEMBER

that story so many times. Change to a doctor that is willing to do thorough investigations into your health. In the 80’s and 90’s you were a symbol of ‘tough’. What do you think tough looks like now? Many people don’t understand the meaning of tough on the rugby field. For me, it is about preparing yourself mentally for all the things that could come your way out on the field. Mental prep is the number one thing all players should learn to master. Being tough is all about the mental. What would you like to see more of in our health sector? One of the areas that I do touch on is wairua (spirituality). Many doctors would not talk about this aspect of treating a patient but for me it is huge. Sometimes we do need a bit of divine support and inspiration. It can help us on this emotional rollercoaster, because emotions do take over when you are a cancer patient. You’re heading to Japan for a Rugby World Cup tour in September. Having lived there before, what do you think we can learn from their culture? I don’t know much about the Japanese and their health but I do know that on the whole, the Japanese diet is very good. Today, many of the younger ones are right into their fast foods which will change this over time. The western diet of fast food is not real food. What did cancer teach you? Always expect the unexpected because you never know what is around the corner… No one prepares for cancer, it usually just creeps up on you and bites you in the arse. That is why doctor’s checks are a must. | Buck Shelford is one of the famous faces fronting the Blue September campaign. His unique take on men’s cancer and health stems from his own experiences, on and off the rugby pitch.

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THE FARMLANDER | 9

WHICH GATE MARKS YOUR FATE? 10 | THE FARMLANDER

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BLUE SEPTEMBER

Bruce Avery compares prostate cancer to being a lamb in a race – you don’t know which gate the farmer is going to open to determine your fate. One thing the prostate cancer survivor does know is the best results are through early detection. Bruce and his fellow Manawatu support group member, Tony Curran, differ in age but are both from farms, both have a family history of the disease and both got yearly checks.

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THE FARMLANDER | 11

| As a survivor, Bruce has found there is a lot to talk about. His desire to help others has spurred his involvement in the support group and at public events.

Although he has been cancer free for seven-anda-half-years, 71-year-old Bruce Avery is more vigilant than ever in delivering his message for men to regularly have a Warrant of Fitness done. “Farmers spend thousands of dollars keeping their stock healthy and inoculating and drenching, yet many men don’t spend $50 to go to the doctor and get a check. “There is no shame in a digital rectal examination and if you don’t want that, at least have a blood test to get your PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) levels checked.”

his mechanical work, particularly on farm machinery and agricultural equipment, as well as building cowsheds. He has recently retired to Feilding but it was when they were at Himatangi that the Avery’s had their first brush with cancer. Eleven-years ago Marilyn had a mammogram and was diagnosed with breast cancer. “We made the journey together through the lumpectomy, chemotherapy and radiation treatment. “You live in hope and we were lucky because it had been diagnosed early. Marilyn’s a survivor and

What are the odds Bruce is one of five boys, or a “handful” as his mum used to say. Two of his brothers have also been diagnosed with prostate cancer, making Bruce’s resolve to spread the “get checked” message even stronger. Bruce was raised on a farm before completing his mechanic’s apprenticeship. In 1982 he and his wife, Marilyn, bought a 45ha block at Himatangi, north of Foxton. As well as running his farm block, Bruce continued with

12 | THE FARMLANDER

“

Farmers spend thousands of dollars keeping their stock healthy and inoculating and drenching, yet many men don’t spend $50 to go to the doctor and get a check.

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| The Manawatu support group at Linton Army’s Defence Force Health Day: Dennis Dickenson, Chris Bland and Bruce Avery.

with a 65km drive to Palmerston North every weekday for 2–3 minutes of treatment. “The Oncology Department there was great. In you go, they line you up with the tattoo, zap you, then off you go, only to return the next day to do it all again! “My PSA came down and I knew I was on the right line.”

Looking for help Bruce’s involvement with cancer support began when he went looking for help. “Cancer is the thing no one wants to get, then you do get it and you think you are going to die. Then you don’t die and so there is a lot to talk about. I wanted to know more and talk to other people who had experienced prostate cancer.” Bruce was put in touch with Chris Bland who runs the Palmerston North Prostate Cancer Support Group. we had just got over that when, in 2011, a blood

They meet on the third Wednesday of every month

test picked up that my PSA was elevated.

at Addis House and can have 12–20 men attend.

“I’d been having a WOF check since I was 50.

For Bruce, attending the meetings made a real difference.

Men do tend to forget about themselves but I had been having an annual check.

“I’m the kind of guy that if I want to buy a new car or tractor, I need to know the specs and figures and do my homework.

“I had a biopsy and the prostate cancer and the need for surgery was confirmed.

“That is what the support group is for me. There are guest speakers from urologists to surgeons and radiation

“That was late in 2011 and I had to wait over the Christmas

specialists. Prostate cancer is a very interesting subject

and New Year break and finally, in March 2012, had a

and a lot of knowledge is shared between people who

radical prostatectomy and was sent home in nappies.

want advice and to talk about how they have been

“You have had the operation, the cancer is removed but it is

affected and listen to other people’s stories.”

not until later on that you know what the side effects are.

Every year, about 3,000 men are diagnosed with

“I was one of the lucky ones, I put a lot of effort into

prostate cancer, over 600 die and 2,400 survive.

pelvic floor exercises so I wouldn’t be the leaky one.

“Like breast cancer, usually early detection leads

“Because my prostate had been removed my PSA should have

to better outcomes. That’s the message I want to

come down to non-detectable, but my levels were still high.

push. Don’t wait for symptoms to occur as most men

“I thought I was buggered. It was scary to have had

who are diagnosed don’t show any symptoms.

your prostate removed and still have high PSA levels.

“Don’t leave it too late, look after your health, go to

“The next step was nearly eight weeks of radiotherapy

your doctor and get checked,” implores Bruce.

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THE FARMLANDER | 13

| Bruce and Marilyn have both had their brushes with cancer but were lucky to be diagnosed early. Their new life in Feilding is a full one.

A support network There are 36 prostate cancer support networks across the country and training sessions are also offered to assist volunteers, like Bruce, to be able to talk to people and provide the correct information. The Prostate Cancer Foundation’s vision is to eliminate death and suffering caused by prostate cancer by offering support to men who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, along with their families and actively promote awareness of the disease through community promotions.

“

Often it is a real partnership. Having my wife by my side was the best thing I had to support me and keep me going.

“I have no problem talking to people about prostate cancer. I’ll be at our stand at an event and a couple will walk past and the wife will nudge the husband in a way that means, you should be getting checked,” says Bruce. “Often it is a real partnership. Having my wife by my side was the best thing I had to support me and keep me going. “We all need a support person in the early stages, just a pair of ears and a different understanding. “The support group is for wives and partners and family too. While volunteers don’t give out medical advice – we leave that to the experts – we can relay information that is shared with us, which can be helpful. “If prostate cancer is diagnosed early there is a greater chance of a better outcome. My goal is for more people to survive and to do that we need people to be more aware of the benefits of getting checked. It’s that simple: get checked.”

Farmer manages his health first

Bruce says all prostate cancer money is fundraised and all cancer groups are relying on the same dollar which comes from generous people’s pockets. As a Farmlands shareholder for nearly 50 years, starting with the Feilding Trading Society, Bruce is particularly appreciative of the support Farmlands has shown towards prostate cancer awareness and the Blue September campaign. “Last year Farmlands came on board with initiatives across their branches raising $93,000 for prostate cancer. We are very grateful for the Farmlands support.” As an active volunteer, Bruce attends the Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand annual conference,

14 | THE FARMLANDER

the Fieldays at Mystery Creek, home and leisure shows as well as presenting to groups and clubs.

At the age of 52, Tony Curran knows all too well that prostate cancer is not just a disease that affects older men. Tony farms 17km east of Dannevirke on a hill country sheep and cattle breeding/finishing block of 382ha. He had been having regular PSA tests in his early 40’s because “that’s what you do”. In late 2014 his PSA levels started to change and his urinary problems stated to worsen. Tony’s father Ted, also a farmer, had prostate cancer and died at the age of 85. Because of his Dad’s history, Tony’s specialist wanted to get a handle on where Tony was at.

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“I was docking and got a random call that there had been a cancellation, so I let the sheep out of the yards and drove to Palmerston North for an urgent CT scan. “That was followed by a biopsy and once they discovered prostate cancer I was put on active surveillance. That period is an anxious time as you don’t know how fast the cancer will grow or if it will spread. “There are people who simply treat it straight away and have their prostate removed but being a younger man, I was more conscious of the possible side effects.” Active surveillance continued with another biopsy in 2015 and blood tests until a routine biopsy in November last year revealed the cancer had moved up a grade. The cancer cells were still small and contained within the prostate but treatment was advised. “We sought different options and decided to go with robotic laparoscopic prostatectomy as we believed there would be an improved chance of nerve repair and the recovery would be quicker.” The Currans were grateful to have private medical insurance which was a great financial assistance and meant they could pick a time for surgery that fitted in with their farming calendar. Tony had his prostate removed on 22nd May in Tauranga by the surgeon who had pioneered the robotic surgery in New Zealand 12 years ago. At 7 weeks’ post-surgery Tony felt he was 80 percent recovered and at first he was tired but | Tony Curran was docking when he got the call to come in for an urgent CT scan.

| Over 500 Kiwi men currently attend a prostate cancer support group regularly.

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THE FARMLANDER | 15

went back to working on the farm. He made sure to have more rests and longer lunches. “I’ve been looking after myself while the farming operation is quieter. Surgery is invasive no matter what method you choose and a lot of work needs to go into retraining the bladder and building the muscles back up.” Tony says talking about prostate cancer is important. “I attended the prostate cancer support group in Palmerston North and met Bruce Avery and Chris Bland. The work they do is great and the information shared by the men at the session I attended was informative. “Men often delay treatment and can be put off by a complete change in lifestyle as a result of having their prostate removed. “People need to hear that younger men can develop prostate cancer but it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. In my case, I will be back to 100 percent and I think it is heartening for people to hear that. “I went into it as a fit man with a positive mindset and the knowledge I needed, having talked to other men who experienced robotic surgery. “It’s also important to have the right support around you. My wife Jocelyn, a former nurse, was great. I knew the business side of the farm was taken care of and a neighbour helped out on the farm. Having support in place makes the whole job happen a lot more easily.” Tony says that their experience has prompted people to get checked. This pleases the Currans as they want to be open and educate people. “I know for our son, who is only 19, that because of his family history he should start being tested in his early 30’s.” “Prostate cancer is not going away and be it hereditary or caused by unknown factors, it shouldn’t be embarrassing to talk about. “The key message is to get checked.”

Peer support when men need it most The Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCFNZ) engages key volunteers to run a network of support groups throughout the country. These volunteers are usually men who have experienced prostate cancer and want to help others who are faced with that challenge. Graeme Woodside, Chief Executive Officer, estimates that over 500 Kiwi men currently attend a prostate cancer support group regularly. “Having volunteers lead the groups works well as they learn so much on their own journey and they also have local networks to draw on. We provide them with extra training too.” Graeme says that in addition to health treatment received, the support groups are a safe place where those affected can: • Share their stories • Ask questions and get honest answers • Learn from the experience of others • Gain support and encouragement, particularly during the tough times. “Support services are an integral component of our work. We estimate about 30 percent of our total income is spent on providing some aspect of support to men with prostate cancer,” says Graeme. “As you can see from the experiences of Bruce and Tony, having someone alongside you when going through a crisis is so important – someone who will listen, understand and offer help. “That’s the nitty gritty of our support groups – people caring for and supporting each other. There is no need for men to struggle through their encounter with prostate cancer alone.” As well as a 24/7 Helpline, the Foundation supports sufferers and survivors via their website, which provides a wealth of information and has an online forum where people interact. They also hold an annual conference and Patient Forums involving expert speakers to inform and support. For more information on prostate cancer go to the website www.prostate.org.nz or freephone 0800 477 678.

| Dr Daniel Marshall, a Urologist with Mid-Central Health DHB and NZ Urology, spoke to the Manawatu prostate cancer support group in July.

16 | THE FARMLANDER

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THE ALL NEW CHOICES PROGRAMME WILL BE WORTH THE WAIT Choices Rewards is having a working holiday, while we upgrade our systems. A new and improved Choices Rewards is not too far away and from 1st November Farmlands shareholders will be able to: • Use Choices Rewards Points to pay for purchases at any of our 82 Farmlands stores nationwide. • Receive e-vouchers from a range of leading Card Partners, so you can receive your Rewards instantly. • Enjoy a faster, simpler and easier way to earn and redeem Choices Rewards Points. While we have hit pause on earning Choices Rewards, you can still redeem your Points on a range of vouchers and e-vouchers during the holiday. To redeem your Choices Rewards, simply call 0800 200 600. The choice is still yours.

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THE FARMLANDER | 17

IF YOU ACTUALLY USE YOUR 4WD IN 4WD, YOU SHOULD USE US.

Doesn’t it make sense to cover your rural possessions with a rural insurer? At FMG, we’ve been looking after rural New Zealanders for over 100 years. So we get it. Even if you only have one or two things to insure, we can give you the kind of specialised cover you really need. Ask around about us, or better still, give us a call on 0800 366 466.

We’re here for the good of the country.

18 | THE FARMLANDER

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BLUE SEPTEMBER

Blue change-up signals solidarity For the past 4 years, Agpac has supplied distinctive coloured bale wrap to farmers, in support of the Blue September appeal. This gives farmers around the country the option to ditch their traditional green or white bale wrap and join the fight against prostate cancer. Looking like giant smurf stools, the wraps are a stark reminder to all passers-by and farm visitors of the most common cancer Kiwi men face as well as the need to get checked.

One in every eight Kiwi blokes will develop prostate cancer before they are 75 – that is at least eight men being diagnosed every day. The fatality statistics (over 600) are the equivalent to the whole town of Akaroa or Eketahuna being wiped out over the course of a year. As New Zealand’s leading crop packaging supplier, Agpac worked with Farmlands to raise thousands of dollars for the Prostate Cancer Foundation last year. “We get orders from large-scale rural contractors through to oneman bands,” says Chris Dawson, Agpac General Manager. “We’re the only supplier in this space doing it and people are happy to switch up their orders to visibly support charity.” Adam Hill, Station Manager for Queenstown Park Limited, was a shareholder that ordered one of the largest amounts of blue bale wrap via Farmlands channels last September. The 2,350ha deer farmer near Cromwell does all his own balage – over 1,000 bales a year to be exact. 2018 was the first year they had purchased the blue product. “We did it to support a good cause. We are aware of the impact cancer in general has on rural communities,” he says. “Using a different colour each season also helps us to know which bales are made in which season.” Adam had some blue-wrapped bales on the roadside and it prompted questions from a few people which

was a good opportunity to raise awareness of the disease. He believes there is a lot of social pressure on farmers at the moment and they are often doing more than the public sees. That said, Adam thinks in some cases farmers can front foot issues better. “It’s a hard one – what’s perceived to be being done and what is actually being done can be vastly different to the general public. I would like to see more positive stories on farming coming out in the media. Particularly with a ‘changing of the guard’ happening – the next generation are ready to adapt to challenges around the corner.” Adam thinks the little extra cost is negligible in what is a great chance for farmers to show support, not just for personal reasons but as a signal to the public that farmers are in on public health issues too. Agpac delivers a rainbow effect on the nation’s landscape, as it also produces pink wraps for breast cancer charity Sweet Louise (which was a world first) and yellow for the Child Cancer Foundation. “We want to give back to our community and our staff are really proud to be a part of this,” says Chris. Agpac’s blue bale wrap is on Buying Power Promise for shareholders this month. A donation from each purchase goes towards PCFNZ’s Blue September appeal. To order, contact your Technical Field Officer or the staff at your local Farmlands store.

| Cromwell shareholder Adam Hill supports the charity campaign for a few reasons.

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THE FARMLANDER | 19

WE NEED

YOUR SUPPORT

Braveheart is the most ambitious transformation programme our co-operative has ever undertaken.

FAR_09208

Over the coming weeks and months, we will be making some important changes our shareholders need to be aware of. We need your support to help us, so we can provide you with a better service in the future.

WHEN IS THIS HAPPENING? Our new system continues to take shape and more changes took place in August. Some parts of the system can be changed over in a few hours, while others will take place over weekends. Our shareholders will unfortunately experience interruptions depending on where they are in the country. We will keep our shareholders informed through our Farmlanders in-store, our Contact Centre and with updates on www.farmlands.co.nz

PLEASE BEAR WITH US! To make sure everything goes smoothly, there will be times when our system â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both for staff (Contact Centre) and for shareholders (our website) will be unavailable. In addition to this, the Farmlands webstore will be closed during this time. We appreciate your patience.

20 | THE FARMLANDER

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NEW IN-STORE EXPERIENCE

WE’RE GOING OLD SCHOOL

SYSTEM UPGRADES

As we continue to move everything over to our new system, at times our Contact Centre and the MyFarmlands online service will be unable to process certain requests. This is because we need to transition everything from the old system into our new one, which will take some time.

Our new Point of Sale system will be rolled out over the coming months, providing an improved experience for our shareholders in-store. Our staff are learning how to use this new system as we speak, so please bear with us while we undertake our training. ONE PRICE One price will be displayed on products in-store. As a Farmlands shareholder, you will receive a rebate on the price shown on the ticket.

Examples of requests that will be delayed include: • Resetting your log-in for MyFarmlands • Account queries • Credit card purchases online or over the phone Farmlands hopes to have these services re-instated as soon as possible through our new system, however we appreciate your patience during these times. As we switch over to the new system, shareholders may have a ‘blast from the past’ in-store! When one of our stores transfers to the Dynamics 365 system, other stores will not be able to access the system. During these times, we’ll be going back to the original shareholder experience – pen, paper and plenty of smiles.

STATEMENT CHANGES Shareholders that use the category code function on our Farmlands statement may notice code changes. We are working with farm accounting software companies (e.g. MYOB, Xero, CashManagerRURAL) to minimise the impact and more information will be sent with your 1st September statement. Shareholders that do not use category codes may not notice any changes at all – it’s business as usual. If you are interested in utilising our category code function, please contact your accounting software provider and/or accountant.

WANT TO LEARN MORE? Visit www.farmlands.co.nz/braveheart Phone 0800 200 600 Email ask@farmlands.co.nz WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER | 21

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22 | THE FARMLANDER

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CO-OPERATIVE NEWS

Murray looks forward to co-operative’s future Farmlands Director Murray Donald will step down after this year’s Annual General Meeting at Hamilton. Murray joins Farmlands Chairman Lachie Johnstone in standing down from the Farmlands Board of Directors this year. Neither seat on the Board of Directors will be filled, as Farmlands will move into the revised governance structure approved by shareholders at last year’s AGM. Murray says his decision to stand down supports the shareholder vote to add an Independent Director to the Farmlands Board. He says he is a supporter of the Board structure change, as it brings a more diverse mix of skill sets to the co-operative. “There are challenges facing farmers across a number of different areas, including environmental matters and increased compliance,” Murray says. “They are impacting on the agricultural sector, particularly sheep, beef and dairy farms. I feel these changes are

going to have an effect on where Farmlands goes in the future.”

the Audit and Risk Committee for the

Murray says the major focus for Farmlands during his 2 years with the Board has been the business transformation programme, Braveheart. He acknowledges the programme has been more about people and processes than technology and as a shareholder, Murray looks forward to seeing how the organisation transforms.

Murray is the current Chairman of

“There are opportunities to be captured from a national organisation with such a large footprint,” he says. A Kellogg Scholar, Murray has more than 20 years of experience as a Director of several organisations throughout the agricultural sector in New Zealand and much of this has been with co-operatives. Murray is a Chartered Fellow of the Institute of Directors, Councillor and member of the Audit and Risk Committee for the Southern Institute of Technology and is also a Trustee and Chairman of

Agri-Women’s Development Trust. Mount Linton Station Ltd, a 95,000 stock unit property in Western Southland and is a former Director of both Farmers Mutual group (FMG) and Alliance Group.

“

There are opportunities to be captured from a national organisation with such a large footprint. Over the past 25 years, Murray and his wife Carolynn developed and expanded their Southland lamb and beef farming operation from 220ha to the current 455ha. “I’ve been around long enough to know good governance pays dividends,” he says. “The passion that a lot of Farmlands employees and managers have for the organisation has been a highlight in my time with the Board. They are committed to their local communities. That’s seen as a strength that the organisation can build on going forward.” In addition to Murray and Lachie’s decisions to stand down, it was announced in June that Rob Hewett will take over Chair of the Farmlands Board following this year’s AGM.

| Farmlands Director Murray Donald will step down after this year’s Annual General Meeting.

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THE FARMLANDER | 23

VoTiNg’s oPeN! SHAREHOLDER CALENDAR PHOTO COMPETITION

The entries are in! So hang up the camera, jump online and let Farmlands know which photos you think should make the cut. Let your friends and family know about voting too, because beca if you’ve entered the competition, it could be your image finding a home in the Farmlands 2020 calendar.

Vote between bet 6th – 20th September 2019 Vote for your favourite photo now, by visiting

www.farmlands.co.nz/calendar www The 12 winning photos will receive a place in the 2020 Farmlands Farmla calendar and a $200 Farmlands voucher. The photo s selected for the cover will receive an additional $300 Farmlands voucher!

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‘A sLiCe oF tHe gOoD lIfE’

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WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ WWW WW WW.FA FA F AR RM RML ML ML LAND AND ANDS.C NDS.C ND S.C CO O.N .N .N NZ Z

INDUSTRY NEWS

The right frame of mind At the end of September, New Zealanders will be encouraged to explore their “Way to Wellbeing”. This may sound like a hard ask during an exceptionally busy time of year but good mental health contributes to you operating at your best. The World Health Organisation says a person’s wellbeing means being able to cope with the normal stresses of life, being productive in your work and contributing to your community. It can be a struggle for some people to achieve all of these on a regular basis but there is support available.

| Farmstrong Ambassador and All Black, Sam Whitelock.

The Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand was created some 40 years ago and it takes a holistic approach to mental health, promoting the things that make and more importantly, keep people well. Each year the Foundation promotes a Mental Health Awareness week to achieve these aims and this year it runs from the 23rd to the 29th of September. One of the most positive and practical ways the Mental Health Foundation is helping people and communities to get the most out of life is through the Five Ways to Wellbeing. Adapted from an idea out of the United Kingdom, the five areas promoted are: Connect, Keep Learning, Give, Take Notice and Be Active. Looking at these ideas in action, it very simply means talking to the people around you, trying something new and doing something nice for someone else. The last one on the list is something most farmers are already – active. But

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it’s taking notice that can pass you by.

a handy checklist to see if stress is

A contract milker in the Waikato puts

adversely affecting your health.

it this way: “When it gets to the stage

One of the questions Sam asks

where nothing is going right I’ll go to

is, “what’s your frame?” Which

the yearlings just to sit in the paddock.

refers to your frame of reference

They run over and fuss over me and

or at least your perspective.

make funny noises … Basically just

“When I’m under the pump and don’t

finding something that takes it all away,

feel like doing another 30 minutes

that fills the soul with relief or joy.”

training in the middle of a northern

That quote is from a 2015 Farmstrong

winter in the pouring rain, especially

survey and fortunately for farmers,

when it’s summer back home, I

this nationwide programme is one

remind myself why I’m here and that

of the biggest champions of mental

I’m doing what I love,” says Sam.

health on the farm. Founded by FMG

We all have times when things get too

and the Mental Health Foundation,

much and we can’t see the wood for the

Farmstrong was created to help

trees. So just consider taking a moment

people working on the land to live

to change your frame of reference and

well, farm well and cope better with

think how the work you’re doing right

the ups and downs of their lifestyle.

now is contributing to your end goals.

A new resource called ‘Under the

To find out more about Mental Health Awareness Week, visit www.mentalhealth.org.nz and for wellness resources relevant to our sector see www.farmstrong.co.nz

pump’ has been created alongside Farmstrong Ambassador and All Black, Sam Whitelock. It deals with burnout, handling ups and downs and includes

THE FARMLANDER | 25

BUY NOW, PAY LATER! Do you need to defer payment of farm inputs or spread the cost of new equipment? No problem â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Farm Flexi can help you out. It is easy to apply for and use!

Minimum

Revolving credit facility

% 10.25 interest rate

p.a.

of the balance outstanding is payable monthly

Low fee of

$19.95

paid 6 monthly

FAR_09260

The idea is simple, put your farming inputs on your Farm Flexi and pay it off as you go. For further information or to request an application form, contact us on 0800 200 600.

Finance provided by Finance Now. Refer to www.farmlands.co.nz/farm-flexi for full details and disclosures relating to Farm Flexi and Finance Now. Lending conditions apply. Rates and fees are subject to change.

26 | THE FARMLANDER

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CO-OPERATIVE NEWS

Flu fighters Commonly known as the flu, the influenza virus has taken a pretty big chunk out of the workforce this winter. In fact, this highly contagious disease infects one in four New Zealanders each year. Aches, fevers, runny noses and a general lack of energy are one thing. But when something can leave you bedridden or even lead to more serious problems, prevention is always better than the cure. For over three years Farmlands has been providing voluntary, free flu vaccinations to its employees. In 2018 a subsidised vaccination offer was extended to shareholders to protect themselves, their families and their livelihoods. In April this year, Farmlands and its chosen occupational health provider, Fit For Work, set up vaccination clinics at 16 locations across the country and their nurses administered over

600 shots to bolster immunity. A further 100-plus shareholders and staff received their flu vaccine thanks to a Farmlands-supplied voucher. Farmlands General Manager Safety and Wellbeing, Katrina Berry understands that time and money are precious commodities for shareholders. “By offering subsidised vaccinations, our purpose was brought to life in supporting shareholders to keep themselves healthy. It can be hard to get off the farm for any period, so by offering on-site vaccinations at selected Farmlands stores it made it easy for shareholders to take advantage of the opportunity.” Fit For Work provide a range of allied health and occupational medicine services to customers all across the country. One of those giving the vaccinations back in April at the Farmlands Waterloo Road store was Registered Nurse, Emma

Gallagher. Originally from Ireland, Emma is postgraduate trained in Safety and Health at Work. “As a nurse in Ireland I was exceptionally aware of situations that could lead to poor health, both mentally and physically. Unsociable hours, shiftwork, poor food preparation and limited access to healthy food options all play a part. Some of these will be similar to the situations farmers find themselves in.” In Emma’s eyes, a major benefit was how the community came together during an event like this. “In the 20 minutes or so after the shots were given, shareholders had to wait and see if there were any adverse effects. It was then they began to realise they were sitting with people who are their neighbours, or live just down the road from them but had never laid eyes on one another. We even had whole families coming together who chose to do a bit of shopping and then get together for a coffee. There’s never normally the time to do that sort of thing, which is crucial to good mental health.” Emma also stressed that these events are a great opportunity to talk about things like winter wellness and annual check-ups. Katrina says that Farmlands is always thinking of ways it can support farmers, growers and their wha-nau to be the best they can be. “Noone wants to be out of action for days on end due to the flu. This is particularly pertinent for those who are self-employed or working for a small business,” she says.

| Nurse Emma Gallagher was kept busy vaccinating Farmlands staff and shareholders this year.

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THE FARMLANDER | 27

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WHENEVER, WHEREVER,

WE’RE THERE Our nationwide team of professionals visit homes across New Zealand. No matter where you’re based, we visit you at your convenience for a free in-home consultation, bringing with us an incredible range of fabric samples to choose from. Plus, get 25% off* curtains & blinds, exclusive to Farmlands shareholders.

FREE in-home consultation 0800 808 300 russellscurtains.co.nz *Terms & conditions: Offer exclusive to Farmlands shareholders. Discount is applied off retail price and does not apply to curtain making or installation. Excludes shutters and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Discount on curtains applies to fabrics over RRP $29.95p/m and from selected leading fabric suppliers: James Dunlop Essential range, Charles Parsons and Maurice Kain fabrics only, Villa Textiles, Ken Bimler, Warwick and Nettex.

28 | THE FARMLANDER

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CO-OPERATIVE NEWS

Farmlands Real Estate grows its West Coast presence Farmlands Co-operative will once again be offering real estate services to its West Coast shareholders, after announcing the purchase of Ray White’s real estate businesses in Hokitika and Westport. The announcement in August brought experienced agents and property managers to the Farmlands Real Estate team. They are based in Hokitika, Greymouth, Westport and Karamea. Farmlands Real Estate General Manager, Jason Wills says the co-operative’s growth strategy is to provide real estate services to all of provincial New Zealand. “We have recruited an outstanding team who live the Farmlands values, know the local market, are experienced agents and have a long-established connection with the local community,” says Jason. “This acquisition allows us to continue to grow the residential and rental management business and also

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provide expert real estate services

both the co-operative and

to customers looking at lifestyle and

West Coast shareholders.

rural real estate opportunities.”

“We have an amazing bunch of shareholders on the West Coast

“

We have an amazing bunch of shareholders on the West Coast and we are delighted to once again have a physical real estate presence here.

and we are delighted to once again have a physical real estate presence here,” he says. “It was only a few years ago that Farmlands Hokitika won Branch of the Year, out of 82 stores nationwide. “We want to support our shareholders through every stage of farm ownership and real estate is the bookend to that cycle. “This announcement and the calibre of real estate experts who’ve joined our team sets us up to better service the West Coast’s rural sector,” says Jason.

Farmlands Real Estate has grown

Farmlands Real Estate will

considerably in recent years and

offer real estate and property

now offers real estate services to

management services from:

95 percent of provincial New Zealand.

• Hokitika: 5 Weld Street

Jason says the West Coast

• Greymouth: 30 Herbert Street

announcement is exciting for

• Westport: 196 Palmerston Street

THE FARMLANDER | 29

Winning’s in the air 20 x $250 Z Gift Cards to be won Everything’s better in spring. Use your Farmlands Card when you fuel up at any Z service station in September and you’ll go into the draw to win a $250 Z Gift Card. Nice one.

$250

Promotion ends 30 September 2019. T&Cs apply, see www.farmlands.co.nz/z

SAVE

30 | THE FARMLANDER

c 12 Per litre

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THE FARMLANDER | 31

NUTRITION

JOIN FARMLANDS AT EQUIDAYS

Visit us for a range of hot-to-trot equine offers including apparel and animal health products plus top nutritional advice from NRM, Kentucky Equine Research and McMillan. WHEN: 18th – 20th October 2019 WHERE: Mystery Creek Events Centre, sites: 53 – 56 TICKETS: For more information and how to book your tickets visit www.farmlands.co.nz

BE IN TO WIN A $500 FARMLANDS VOUCHER!* Simply make any purchase at the Farmlands site and you will go in the draw!* *Terms and Conditions apply. See Farmlands at Equidays for details. Sites 53-56.

32 | THE FARMLANDER

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Articles in the Plan365 section allow Farmlands suppliers to share best practice and the latest advances in rural technology, NUTRITION to help shareholders with their farming needs all year round.

Equine Cushing’s disease Equine Cushing’s disease, or pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID), is common in older horses and is suspected when a horse shows the classic signs of a long, thick hair coat that refuses to shed.

confirm the illness, leaving owners

Horses with Cushing’s disease may

• All PPID horses should be fed

unsure of how to manage horses. The following are nutritional guidelines for horses that have been diagnosed with Cushing’s or are displaying early signs of the disease.

also have abnormal fat deposits,

a primarily forage diet that will

increased thirst and urination, a

maintain (or regain) ideal body

lowered resistance to disease and

condition and avoid obesity

a tendency to develop laminitis

which will worsen IR.

more easily than healthy horses.

• Restrict horses from pasture

Dietary recommendations will be

at times of the year when

dependent on the horse’s body

it is high in sugars.

condition, the presence of insulin

• Feed concentrates with a low

resistance (IR) and adrenocorticotropic

glycemic index (GI) as required

hormone (ACTH) levels, which can

to maintain body condition

be determined by a veterinarian. In

at around 2.5–3 on the 0–5

early stages of the disease, horses showing signs of Cushing’s do not always have test results that

body condition score index. • Feed small, frequent meals to avoid major deviations in glucose and insulin concentrations. • Super fibres such as beet pulp or soy hulls are excellent lowGI feeds for horses with PPID (eg. McMillan Grain Free). • Feeds containing greater than 3 percent molasses and 20 percent non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) should be avoided if there is evidence of IR. • Pellets or extruded feeds that are higher in fibre (> 10 percent) and fat (> 5 percent) such as NRM LGI Sport or McMillan Grain Free should be fed instead of

• Meet nutritional requirements in overweight horses with balancer pellets such as NRM Equine Balancer to provide nutrients with limited calories. • Use low-GI full feeds such as NRM Low GI Sport or NRM Evolve for underweight horses. • Fat sources such as KER EquiJewel, sunflower seeds or oil can also be included in diets to increase body condition if required. • Feed long-chain omega-3 fatty acids from KERx EO-3 for a glucose regulating and anti-inflammatory effect without increased calorie intake. Use 60–120ml/500kg. • Stabilise hindgut pH and bacterial populations by limiting fructan intake from pasture and supplementing with a hindgut balancer such as KERx EquiShure. • Combat oxidative stress by antioxidant supplementation with natural vitamin E KERx Nano E. • Feed Equin Hoof Food or KER Bio-Bloom to increase hoof growth and allow more rapid hoof reshaping after a laminitis episode. • Give the horse access to rock salt or a salt block. • Small amounts of chaff or soaked beet pulp/soy hulls may be mixed with supplements to increase palatability and encourage consumption.

feeds that could contain high

For further assistance and advice on feeding horses with Cushing’s, consult a qualified Equine Nutritionist.

amounts of NSC or molasses.

Article supplied by Luisa Wood, Equine Nutritionist.

sweet feeds to provide additional dietary energy. Beware of senior

| Restrict horses from pasture at times of the year when it is high in sugars.

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THE FARMLANDER | 33

NUTRITION NUTR NU TR RIT TIO ION N

for every bag of TUX 25kg Energy, PROPLAN Performance 20kg and PROPLAN Performance Extreme 18kg purchased from Farmlands during September 2019. All proceeds will be paid directly to the NZ Sheep Dog Trial Association who will distribute all funds across the regional Sheep Dog Trial Centres nationwide.

34 | TH 34 T THE EF FARMLANDER A M AR ML LAN ANDE DER DE R

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NUTRITION

Supplementary feeding cows through mating The long-term health and wellbeing of cows within a seasonal calving system is highly dependent on their fertility. According to LIC, the national not-in-calf rate for spring calving herds averaged about 14 percent in 2012 (when mating was on average 85 days) rising to 17 percent in 2015 (when inductions were fully phased out) and 2016 and 2017 (when mating was on average 76 days). Approximately two thirds of the increase in cows not-in-calf can be explained by the shorter mating period; it has been estimated that 6-week in-calf rates would have to increase by about 4 percent to compensate for the shorter mating period. The pressure is on to get a higher percentage of cows in-calf quickly. Many factors may affect fertility including the accuracy of oestrous detection, semen quality, the timing of AB and technique but nutrition is a key factor. The pre-mating period is a critical time to review the average and spread of body condition score of cows and also assess milk quality and quantity, the mineral status of the herd (by diet analysis and blood tests if necessary) and identify non-cycling cows that need help. Dairy cows with a predisposition to produce milk will peak higher if fed well post-calving and are vulnerable to extra stresses or challenges over mating. There is a risk to feeding grain for 5 or 6 weeks after calving to help fill a feed pinch and then stopping before mating. While many people feel

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Pasture wants to reproduce at the same time we want cows to reproduce.

pressured to reduce supplementary feeding as grass growth increases, this could cause cows to plunge into a negative energy balance. If cows have had milk fever or mastitis, are skinny, late calving or just young or old cows struggling to gain condition prior to and through mating, their energy balance could be improved by milking them once per day (taking less milk, giving them longer to graze and less walking to the dairy shed) or by increasing the quality or quantity of supplementary feeding (to improve energy supply). If milk yield, protein production or milk urea levels are dropping away quickly as mating approaches it is worth paying extra attention to pasture quality and if necessary, increase supplementary feed levels. If cows are slipping into a negative energy balance through mating, feeding more supplements or increasing the nutrient density of the supplements is worth considering.

Rumen-protected fats are a safe option for increasing energy intake. Some essential trace minerals have a key part to play in fertility. I wish there was a silver bullet that could be added to feeds which would greatly improve fertility but apart from correcting a deficiency in a diet I have not seen anything which significantly affects fertility when provided in a special form or luxurious amount. Indeed, I think farmers should be cautious of oversupplying trace minerals like iodine and selenium at rates many times above the National Research Council recommendations. Resilience comes from an ability to adapt and respond â&#x20AC;&#x201C; understanding what has impacted fertility previously and taking stock of how this season is going now could be worthwhile. For further information, contact your local Nutrition Specialist. Article supplied by Dr. Rob Derrick, NRM Lead Nutritionist.

THE FARMLANDER | 35

NUTRITION

MAKE SURE SPRING PAYS YOU BACK NEXT WINTER. TALK TO US TODAY. Seed, fert, chem and more.

FAR_09270

Every farmer knows that a successful and productive spring sets up the business for the whole year. So, talk to a Farmlands Technical Field Officer about the tools in our tool box that will help you take control of your feed supply. To find out more visit www.farmlands.co.nz

36 | THE FARMLANDER

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NUTRITION

Getting the best out of your backyard flock Chickens lay eggs in what we call ‘clutches’, with an egg laid per day for a number of consecutive days followed by a rest period before they start to lay another clutch. The average chicken clutch size is about 12 eggs, with a pause of roughly a day or so in between clutches. Clutch size and pause length can vary quite a bit between birds and is largely dependent on breed and the age of birds. Genetic selection has meant that commercial laying breeds, such as the Shaver and the Hy-line, have become exceptional layers with large clutch sizes and short pauses. As birds get older, they start to lay less eggs per clutch with larger pauses in-between and their most efficient production period will be in their first year as a layer. This explains why we might not always get an egg a day out of our birds, especially as our flock ages. We may not even notice the difference in egg production between our old and young hens if we run a mixed-age flock. Older chickens lay larger eggs but they deposit the same amount of calcium into the shell which means

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we tend to see more thin-shelled egg issues in an aging flock. Older birds also have weaker chalazes which are the ropey strands of egg white which anchor the yolk in place in the center of the egg. The weaker chalazes can give the whites of the egg a more ‘watery’ appearance once cracked. This issue is also linked to the freshness of an egg with older eggs similarly appearing watery.

note that the first five weeks of life is

So, what does this mean for the backyard flock? Well, we have to expect that egg production and egg quality will drop off for older hens, even if offered the best-quality layer feed. Keeping older birds to a ripe old age can be personally very satisfying however, if space is limited and you really want to maintain production and egg quality, it is best to have a replacement strategy in place so that you always have young birds coming through to replace your older ones each season.

for your flock. If buying your pullets in

Most backyard chook farmers will purchase young hens (pullets) at point of lay, while others might choose to incubate eggs and rear chicks themselves. If you choose to rear your own it is important to

critical for development of immunity and the digestive system. A highquality chick starter can make all the difference when rearing chicks. Reproductive tract development is critical for egg production and occurs around 15 to 25 weeks of age, so moving on from a chick starter to a well-balanced pullet grower feed can be beneficial and have lifelong benefits at point of lay it is worth asking how old they are. Chickens will start laying at about 17 weeks of age, or slightly older for heritage breeds. If birds are already in lay when purchased, you may have missed a good portion of their most productive year. It is not all about egg production with a backyard flock though. Many people enjoy keeping their older chickens around and are happy with a reduction in performance. It is more about figuring out what you want from your flock and having realistic expectations if you do have some older chickens in the mix. For further information, contact your local Nutrition Specialist. Article supplied by Stacey Cosnett, Nutritionist.

THE FARMLANDER | 37

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FORAGE AND ARABLE

Soil testing 101 Soil testing can save you money, increase your profits and help you find exactly the right product for the job. The only way to get accurate, reliable information on soil nutrient levels (and fertiliser requirements) is by regular soil testing. “A soil testing programme can save you money as you’re not using unnecessary nutrients and by applying nutrients for optimal production you can also increase your profit,” says Ballance Agri-Nutrients Science Extension Officer, Aimee Dawson. “It’s important to use calibrated soil tests, which have been matched against optimum pasture and crop production. Tests such as pH,

Olsen P, Quick Test K, Quick Test Mg and Sulphate S are all calibrated to New Zealand soil types and conditions.

you to choose the right product for your needs as you may need a combination of nutrients,” says Aimee.

“You don’t have to test every paddock on the farm, just distinct farm management areas, such as effluent paddocks, steep hill country and so on, as these are likely to have different soil fertility.

If a micronutrient deficiency is suspected, it is best to determine this with a herbage test. Cloveronly tests can help refine fertiliser recommendations by showing any micronutrients that may be below or above optimum. Herbage tests for clover growth should be taken in spring, when the clover is actively growing and will help to determine whether micronutrients such as molybdenum are required. For crops, leaf testing can also be completed when the crop is actively growing or when a nutrient deficiency is suspected.

“Following certain protocols when taking samples for testing will ensure accurate results,” says Aimee. For instance: • It’s important to take an average of the paddock and avoid areas of high fertility such as gateways, troughs and feed out areas. • Also avoid urine and dung patches as well as recently grazed paddocks or those occupied by stock. • Testing in extreme conditions (waterlogged or very dry) or within three months of fertiliser or lime application can also affect results. • Spring or autumn are the best times of year to take samples. • Transects, the lines along which samples are collected for each area tested, should be recorded, so testing can be repeated on them in future years. • It’s also important to take future tests at the same time of year. “It’s sensible to monitor your investment in fertiliser by regularly soil testing and examining the trends and results. This allows you to decrease fertiliser if nutrient levels are above requirements, or to address a declining trend in nutrients with capital fertiliser applications. Soil testing also helps

Besides the standard approach to soil testing, a number of more detailed strategies can be considered depending on variability in soil fertility, previous paddock history, maximum crop/pasture yield and crop/pasture value. These approaches are: • All-paddock testing • Zonal soil testing • Grid testing. “Before completing these more intensive soil testing options, it’s important to understand their costbenefit by determining the likelihood of soil fertility variability within a paddock or farm, the additional cost of testing and the payback from the pasture or crop you are growing,” says Aimee. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Ballance Agri-Nutrients.

| The only way to get accurate, reliable information on soil nutrient levels is by regular soil testing.

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THE FARMLANDER | 39

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Blue September Special Edition

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Buy a ‘Blue Dot Donor’ item in-store at Farmlands to help support Blue September. For more information visit www.farmlands.co.nz Terms and Conditions apply. Savings and Discounts based on normal retail price. While stocks last. Prices valid from 1st – 30th September 2019.

40 | THE FARMLANDER

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FORAGE AND ARABLE

Do it once, do it right Eliminating a broad spectrum of weeds and grasses with a Granstar ® and glyphosate mix means your crop is no longer competing for moisture or nutrients, leading to better establishment of your new crop or pasture.

The short withholding period of

The robust control of broad leaf weeds with this approach minimizes re-growth at a critical crop establishment stage. Throughout New Zealand there are numerous weeds present but not always apparent in an old pasture or crop paddock. Some of the weeds Granstar® controls are: clover, yarrow, thistles, ragwort, sorrel, chickweed, spurrey, wild turnip, redroot, shepherd’s purse, fat hen, scarlet pimpernel, twin cress, wire weed and dandelions. Rather than a rapid brownout, Granstar® stops cell division within the plant, working its way throughout the plant including the root system. A sign that Granstar® has done the job is the loss of the fine root fibres on the target weeds before the plant has browned off, providing robust weed control well into the establishment of the new pasture or crop.

Although it is absorbed through

residual to impact the establishment

the foliage and translocated

of clover, lucerne or a brassica crop.

quickly, visual symptoms of

Talking with your Farmlands

control are very slow and can

Technical Field Officer can assist

take up to 4 weeks to appear.

with planning when to spray, what

• Sowing withholding period: allow

products and the rates of tank mix

14 days between the application

to be included with Granstar®.

and sowing of pasture (including

Some key points to note:

clovers), forage brassicas, lucerne,

• Application rate: 40g per hectare.

peas, potatoes, maize and squash.

• Tank mix: Use a tank mix with

Lime may be applied 14 days after

label rates of WeedMaster®* or

Granstar®, just before planting or

glyphosate plus an organo-silicone

at drilling. If the soil pH exceeds

penetrant i.e. Pulse, Boost . • Application conditions: Granstar® is primarily absorbed through

6.5 or if lime has been applied in the previous 2 months, do not sow brassicas into Granstar®-treated soil.

the foliage and therefore target

Several weeks after treatment

weeds need to be actively

the difference can be seen.

growing with good leaf area.

For further information, contact

• Rain fast: Do not apply if rain

your Farmlands Technical Field

appears likely within 1 hour. • Grazing or cultivation withholding: Only 3 days (this allows for maximum uptake as well as

Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. ®

WeedMaster is a registered trademark of Nufarm Limited. Article supplied by FMC.

translocation and is good practice).

| Glyphosate + Granstar® + penetrant = weeds still dying out.

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• How quickly does it work?

14 days means there is no long-term

| Re-growth of old clover and broadleaf weeds, treated with glyphosate + penetrant only = shows the first sign of a problem about to begin.

THE FARMLANDER | 41

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0 2 0 2 S D N A L M R FA R U O T A C I R F A H T SOU NCE U B K N A R F Y B D E T R O C S E

Join Farmlands and House of Travel on this shareholder exclusive tour to South Africa to see South Africa’s wildlife, culture and heritage. Departing October 2020. Along the way you will also take in a wide range of farm visits and experience the thrill of an All Blacks v. Springboks test match.

FAR_09109

Spaces are limited, so register your interest today. www.farmlands.co.nz/africatour Full tour details will be sent to you as soon as the 2020 All Blacks test schedule is released later this year.

42 | THE FARMLANDER

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FORAGE AND ARABLE

Slug control a key element of crop protection programmes Several invasive European slug species are thriving in New Zealand and have become significant pests of forage and arable crops.

farmers need a formulated molluscicide

Slugs are extreme generalists in terms of grazing which makes them a real threat to crops, especially in the establishment phase. Slugs reduce plant populations early by grazing on cotyledon plants and new growth. This has a big impact on plant vigor and can greatly impact the success of the desirable crop species establishment.

product manufactured via a unique

A limiting factor of slug populations is moisture availability. The spring rains that bring optimal growing conditions for the establishment of new crops also present New Zealand farmers with the challenge of increased slug populations. Cultural control methods such as intensive grazing and rolling after drilling can work to minimise these populations however when monitoring thresholds are exceeded,

The wet-extrusion formulation

that will withstand the wet conditions that are so favorable to slugs. Axcela® is a proven molluscicide wet-extrusion process by Lonza. It combines the advantages of the specific mode of action of Lonza’s patented Meta® Metaldehyde with the latest formulation techniques to give Axcela® pellets the highest level of control over slugs and snails under a wide range of conditions. technique used in the production of Axcela® provides New Zealand farmers with several benefits. In the field, the pellets expand by up to 80 percent which increases pellet presence and palatability by gelatinizing when in contact with moisture. Furthermore, the active ingredient Meta® Metaldehyde is evenly distributed throughout the pellet which means that Axcela®

will continue to control slugs after a significant amount of rain. Lonza’s Technical Manager Stephen McKennie emphasises the need for accurate calibration when applying any molluscicide. “Accurate calibration of optimal bait points per square metre is key in ensuring that slugs have the maximum chance of intercepting the pellet before they find the crop,” he says. The uniform size of Axcela® provides optimum spreading ballistics and the wet extruded formulation technique ensures that even after environmental conditions break a pellet down it still contains enough Meta® Metaldehyde to deliver a fatal dose to slugs. “These key advantages make Axcela® the most robust molluscicide on the market,” says Stephen. Stephen also mentions that users can take advantage of the calibration app designed by Lonza which gives them the confidence that they are applying the correct amount of baits per square metre. This will ensure the product works to its full potential; aiding in getting crops through the vulnerable establishment phase. It contains specific product information as well as a calibration tool by which a photo is taken of the pellets on the ground and a rate per hectare is calculated. Download from the app store for both IOS and Android. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Lonza.

| Axcela pellets after two weeks in the field and 58mm of rain still intact, still working to control slugs.

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THE FARMLANDER | 43

FORAGE AND ARABLE

ALWAYS UNBREAKABLE. NEVER SAFER. New Zealand’s favourite workhorse just got even safer. Along with a 5-star ANCAP safety rating across the range, select Hilux models now come with Toyota Safety Sense, including a Pre-Collision System with Autonomous Emergency Braking, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, and Road Sign Assist. Add to that a touchscreen and reverse camera as standard, a powerful 2.8 litre diesel engine with up to 450Nm torque*, and 3.5-tonne towing capacity*, and you’ll have a serious amount of safety gear to go with your grunt.

For exclusive Farmlands shareholder pricing, visit farmlands.co.nz/Toyota or contact your local Toyota store

FAR_08953

Accessorised Hilux SR5 Cruiser shown. *Maximum braked towing capacity and torque varies across models. Excludes Hilux WorkMates.

44 | THE FARMLANDER

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FORAGE AND ARABLE

Lambs flourish on high-energy summer herb With its deep tap-root and extremely high-feed quality, chicory is a resilient, cost-effective summer and autumn finishing crop. Chicory’s protein and metabolisable energy (ME) levels are much higher than ryegrass over summer. It can also handle dry conditions, is very palatable to livestock and is among the lowest risk forages recommended for managing the risk of facial eczema (FE). On a Taranaki farm where FE and pleurisy have historically affected sheep performance, chicory has become a successful tool for growing lambs to their potential. | Jarred and Sarah Coogan farm the family property at Tarata with Sarah’s parents Bryan and Helen Hocken.

As a result, MataRata Downs drafted its heaviest-ever prime lambs last season, reaching average carcase weights of 18.5kg and growing lambs at 300g liveweight/day. Jarred and Sarah Coogan farm the 425ha (effective) family property at Tarata with Sarah’s parents Bryan and Helen Hocken. They sowed 5.5ha of 501 Chicory and Zulu II annual clover last October to create a mini lamb finishing unit close to the sheep yards.

501 Chicory again this spring, possibly over a larger area.

Growth was very impressive, with the Coogans noting that it was the only green paddock on the farm in February and it had an unexpectedly fast re-growth after grazing.

Blair Cotching, Pasture Systems Manager for Barenbrug Agriseeds, says their results show what a difference even a relatively small area of highvalue, specialist feed can make to a sheep breeding and finishing business.

“The only way we could control it was to fence it into three blocks, and rotationally graze it. We were getting around it in 17-20 days.”

From December through March, they grazed their heaviest Romney and Romney-Suffolk cross lambs on the crop for the last 28 days before slaughter. Working with Technical Field Officer Shelly Worthington from Farmlands Inglewood and Barenbrug Agriseeds’ Area Manager Bruce Paterson, they chose 501 Chicory specifically because it is an annual, with faster establishment and higher growth rates over six months than a perennial chicory1.

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Zulu II was added to lift feed protein levels even higher.

Direct-drilled to minimise soil disturbance on their rolling land, the crop was sprayed for broadleaf and grass weeds then sidedressed with 30 units of N/ha. Lambs were drafted onto it at an average of 37–40kg/head and drafted off at an average of 42–50kg. Close proximity to the yards minimised handling and simplified loading for transport. Jarred and Sarah plan to sow

“As an annual, 501 Chicory is ideally suited to this type of situation because it grows as much as 550kg/ha more than a perennial chicory in six months.” MataRata Downs is this year’s regional Supreme Winner of the Taranaki Ballance Farm Environment Awards and has a long and proud association with Farmlands. For further information contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. 1. Barenbrug Agriseeds chicory DM yield trials, Cambridge 2011-12 and Canterbury 2012-13. Article supplied by Barenbrug Agriseeds.

THE FARMLANDER | 45

for you FORAGE ANDWorks ARABLE 6005 0991 1047 7802 AM CARD HOLDER

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FORAGE AND ARABLE

Quality summer feed yields milk gains Central Hawke’s Bay farmer Craig Alley was looking for a forage that could produce reliable, high-quality summer feed, last multiple years and be productive in both irrigated and dryland environments. With his requirement being a tall order for any crop, Craig sought advice from local Farmlands Technical Field Officer Shane Mullany, who recommended

Choice chicory for Craig’s dairy and dairy support block. He has not looked back since seeing the benefits of Choice, particularly through the summer and early autumn months. Choice requires different establishment and management practices to grass pastures when it is used as a special purpose crop. It is however, a more effective way of increasing seasonal animal performance because it provides a greater amount of high-quality feed over summer, which is often difficult to achieve with grass pasture at this time. Craig milks 650 cows on his 330ha property and Choice fits well into his system. Using Superstrike-treated seed at 12 kg/ha with 250 kg/ha of DAP down the spout, Craig is growing 8–10 tonne DM/ha out of his Choice from November through to April, achieving his first grazing round 40 days after drilling. After the first graze, he is then able to maintain a 20-day round until late March where he applies Glyphosate at 1.5L/ha as the Choice slows its growth heading into winter. To utilise the residual life of his Choice, Craig uses this time to stitch in perennial ryegrass and white clover to make up a mixed pasture sward. “I’ve found Choice quite persistent, it handles hard grazing through summer and still makes up a high proportion of feed in the second and third year mixed pastures,” explains Craig. Out of Craig’s 650 cows, 300 are 2–3-year olds grazing either pure swards of Choice or Choice-mixed pastures every day from December

through until late March. During this time the cows are offered 5–6 kg DM/day of Choice to make up approximately one third of their total diet (this works out to be around half a hectare per day). “It provides reliable, high-quality summer feed, resulting in higher summer milk production. We notice good summer milk production on the Choice chicory and the cows hold good condition on it,” says Craig. Over the years, Craig has tried other forages for summer production such as turnips. Craig finds Choice faster to first graze and it cuts cultivation costs (as you can direct drill grass straight into chicory in autumn rather than working up a turnip paddock following strip grazing). It is also a multi-graze rather than a one-off and Choice will last in the grass for another 1–2 years. Craig is running the same system for his young stock on the run-off. His dairy support block is able to maintain a 20-day round under dryland conditions. Under this system Craig’s conclusion is simple: Choice provides excellent summer quality for the young stock which results in good growth rates. For Craig, Choice chicory has proven to be an attractive forage option to maximise both summer production and quality, home-grown feed to ultimately increase the overall robustness of the forage base on farm. For further information contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Agricom.

| Craig Alley and Farmlands Technical Field Officer Shane Mullany.

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THE FARMLANDER | 47

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

Docking? Get sorted in just two shakes...

WEEKS

PROTECTION

At Farmlands we have everything you need in one place.

FAR_09163_Farmlander NI

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ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

What vitamins should I use at tailing? Cobalt is a core element of vitamin B12, which means that ruminants can produce vitamin B12 if there is adequate cobalt in their diet. Recent indications show that the cobalt requirements of sheep were met by only 54 percent of pastures in New Zealand.1 Vitamin B12 deficiency can still have a significant economic impact. Ruminants require more vitamin B12 than other animals. Young growing sheep, such as lambs after tailing, are the most susceptible to deficiency as they have higher energy requirements

| Young growing sheep, such as lambs after tailing, are the most susceptible to deficiency.

for growth. A common presentation of deficiency is 3 to 6-month-old lambs showing signs of ill-thrift when grazing good green pasture. Sometimes, the only sign may be reduced weight gain with the development of a tail-end of unthrifty lambs. Common symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency in sheep and cattle are: • Decreased growth rates • Loss of appetite • Watery eye discharge • Anaemia • Increased susceptibility to parasites • Scaly ears From birth to weaning, a lamb

It is not until pasture makes up a large percentage of their diet that their requirements for B12 increase. In many cases tailing/docking is a convenient time for this supplementation to begin.

programmes start with the ewes

The cost of supplementing vitamin B12 is small compared to the benefits gained. To make supplementation more convenient, vitamin B12 has been added to the trusted Multine 5-in-1 brand – Multine B12®. As lamb vaccination with Multine 5-in-1 routinely starts from either tailing/docking or at weaning, for convenience Multine B12 can be used at this time instead.

Multine B12 2–4 weeks pre-lamb will

formed molecules of vitamin B12

The period of raised vitamin B12 levels depends on the animal’s liver storage levels and the ongoing dietary intake of cobalt. Injected soluble vitamin B12 can persist for up to 1–3 months in young sheep.2 Vitamin B12 has a high safety margin3 and can be used at the same time as using other cobalt supplements, such as drenches.

which already incorporate cobalt.

Best-practice clostridial vaccination

develops from a monogastric to a ruminant. The change in diet from milk to pasture presents markedly different requirements of some trace nutrients, such as cobalt or selenium. For the suckling lamb, milk is a complete food that provides pre-

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receiving a pre-lamb vaccination, then two injections into young animals – a priming dose followed by a booster dose 4–6 weeks later. Using increase vitamin B12 stored in the foetal liver and ensure higher levels are available in the dam’s colostrum.4 For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. References: 1. Knowles SO and Grace ND. Vitamin B12 status and the effects of vitamin B12 supplementation during the first year of life of spring calves from pasturefed dairy herds. NZ Vet Journal, 2014: 274–8. 2. Mulvaney C, Hodgson B, Cuttance W. MSD data on file. 3. Grace ND. Managing trace element deficiencies in New Zealand grazing livestock. 1994. 4. Knowles SO and Grace ND. The vitamin B12 and Se status of lambs during their transition from milk-fed monogastric to grazing herbivore. NZ Vet Journal, 2017: 113–118. ACVM No’s: A0934, A0935, A11311, A1009, A3977 Schering-Plough Animal Health Ltd. © 2019 Intervet International B.V. All Rights Reserved. NZ/MLT/0519/0002. Article supplied by MSD Coopers.

THE FARMLANDER | 49

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50 | THE FARMLANDER

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ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

How quality silage inputs affect your bottom line Feeding dairy cows a balanced diet is of the utmost importance when it comes to maximising production and maintaining optimum animal health. Silage makers are faced with a number of challenges, not least the need to minimise dry matter loss and maintain silage quality. Possibly the most critical factor in maintaining silage quality and minimising dry matter loss is controlling the exposure to oxygen. If oxygen is not effectively excluded, the fermentation process is slow and inefficient resulting in a high loss of dry matter. You can only keep oxygen out of the stack if there is an impermeable, airtight barrier between the silage and the surrounding atmosphere. Silostop® oxygen barrier film is up to 20 times more effective than conventional black/white film and plain

PE cling film in preventing oxygen transfer. As a result, Silostop® oxygen barrier film substantially reduces dry matter loss and aerobic spoilage in the top 1m of stored silage by limiting the growth of fungi and other spoilage organisms that need oxygen to respire.

to ruminants can reduce digestibility

Silostop® is a premium oxygen barrier film created using highquality food grade barrier resins in combination with high-quality polyethylene resins thus ensuring silage is sealed against air entry.

a proven inoculant that will deliver

Trials conducted by the University of Nottingham showed that silage judged to be unpalatable was reduced from 5.9 percent using black plastic to 0.1 percent using Silostop® oxygen barrier film. This equated to a reduction from 100 tonnes of discarded silage per stack to just 1.7 tonnes. With the increasing cost of conserving forage, this represents a great return on investment. For silage stacks, Silostop® oxygen barrier film is part of a two-layer system which can be applied under SiloStop® UV Protection Covers or under conventional white-on-black PE film. You can also use SiloStop® gravel bags, rather than tyres, as sealing weights that are less likely to damage the silage film. Trish Lewis, a New Zealand Dairy and Silage Consultant, says that a good silage management programme is a key component of profitable production and can make a difference when farmers are faced with climatic challenges. “Research has shown that feeding even a small amount of spoiled silage

of the whole diet,” advises Trish. Trish says that good silage, in terms of both nutritional quality and minimal spoilage, comes from attention to detail throughout the silage making process. “This includes taking the time to select the required results and ensuring it is correctly applied,” she says. The Sil-All® range of bacterial forage inoculants are designed to improve the fermentation efficiency of silages made from pastures, maize, legumes and cereals. These premium inoculants: • Contain selected strains of bacteria authorised by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) to manage the fermentation process and aerobic stability of common silages. • Contain a specific enzyme package to help release sugars to speed up the fermentation process. • Work under difficult conditions such as low dry matter content and lack of soluble sugars. • Rapidly produce large volumes of lactic acid, quickly reducing pH levels to prevent dry matter losses. Feeding high-quality, stable silage can benefit milk yield and constituent levels. The extra milk produced from the use of forages will increase the profitability of Kiwi dairy farming, now and into the future. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Nutritech International.

| Feeding high-quality, stable silage can benefit milk yield and constituent levels.

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THE FARMLANDER | 51

ALLFLEX SHEEP TAG ORDER ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

Charge through Farmlands:

Send to:

Phone:

Fax:

Phone:

Order no:

Allflex RapID Sheep Tag

Allflex Flexi Sheep Tag

•

High-performance HDX technology. Only available in strips of 20 RFID tags. • Automatic and manual applicators. • 10 clear colours. • Includes custom laser marking to your specifications. 157524

•

Rapid EID Tag

Flexitag

High-performance HDX EID technology is the benchmark for drafting and automation. • 20 tags per strip dramatically reduces application time. • New stem technology, reduces application pressure, superior healing and retention.

Qty required

• • •

Female end (maximum 2 rows of 8 characters)

Male end (maximum 4 digits)

Fast economical identification option. Blanks available in bags of 100. Custom marked available in strips of 25. Manual and automatic applicators. 12 clear colours.

Male end (maximum 4 digits)

Qty required

Number range (1-100 etc.)

Female end (maximum 2 rows of 8 characters) Number range (1-100 etc.)

Flexitag colour (please circle)

Tag colour (please circle) Yellow

White

Orange

Blue

Green

Yellow

White

Orange

Blue

Green

Dark Green

Red

Pink

Black

Purple

Brown

Red

Pink

Black

Purple

Brown

Dark Blue

Colour

Flock Tag

(please circle)

Bottom (maximum 2 rows of 7 characters)

Top (maximum 4 digits) Qty required

RapIDmatic applicator Qty:

Number range (1-100 etc.)

Manual applicator Qty:

Fleximatic applicator Qty:

Yellow White Orange Blue Green Red Pink Dark Blue Brown Black Purple

Brass Tag

Brass

Nickel

Name (maximum 14 characters)

Start number (alpha prefix available

Qty required

Year code (ie 17)

Number range (1-100 etc.)

Flexitaggerr

Flocktagger

Qty:

One Shot Brass tagger Qty:

Drop this in to your local Farmlands store or any of our field staff today!

FAR_09147

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with 100 marked sheep tagss.. last. Society Limited | © September 2019. All rights reserved. cks las While stocks 52 | THE FARMLANDER Co-operative s apply. Offer ends 31st October 2019.Farmlands and Condition *Terms

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ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

Spring time means possum time Possums are one of the greatest threats to New Zealand’s natural environment. Here, they have no predators and lots of palatable vegetation. As a result, they have a huge impact on our ecosystems, native land and forests, with the added worry of them spreading bovine tuberculosis to cattle. Possums eat leaves, flowers, leaf buds, fruit, eggs, birds, insects and snails, as well as pasture, which means less food for farm animals. They can also damage horticultural and garden crops. The damage caused by possums costs New Zealand farmers millions of dollars a year. New growth in early spring means possums start invading our farms – if you have roses you will know you have

a problem by the fur left on the thorns as possums dine on the emerging buds. There are a number of other ways to tell if you have a possum problem:

• Possums hissing and squawking at night and running over the roof.

• Severe defoliation of trees in the bush, especially Northern ra-ta-.

• Sick (dopey) possums seen out in the paddocks during daytime.

• Dead trees (especially Northern ra-ta-) in the bush canopy – clearly visible from the air.

Now is the time to organise your strategy to achieve an effective eradication for the coming spring and PestOff Possum Bait and stations are simple, easy-to-use solutions. The bait combines the effectiveness of the anti-coagulant toxin, brodifacoum, with a highly palatable cereal formulation which eliminates the need for prefeeding. PestOff Possum Bait contains attractive lures – either cinnamon or raspberry. This ensures the possum will consume on average 50g per feed, with the lethal dose being 100g, or roughly two feeds. If bait supply is maintained to ensure possums can feed freely over 4–5 consecutive nights, they will usually die 5–10 days after eating a full lethal dose.

• Fruit trees in gardens being robbed at nights. • Possum dung pellets around trees bearing fruit or flowers. • Rubbish bins being searched for fruit. • Many possums seen on pastures and in the trees at night. • TB-infected possums being found (showing cheesy lymph nodes under arms and back legs).

• Clear tracks from the bush into the paddocks or fur on the fence wire.

Secure the bait stations about 200mm above ground level or at a similar height above a tree fork where a possum can sit while feeding. Place bait stations 100m apart on shelter belts and bush/pasture margins, or two per hectare of forest. Keep them out of reach of pets, stock and feral pigs. You are not required to hold an Approved Handler Certificate to use PestOff Possum Bait and stations. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Bell-Booth. | New growth in early spring means possums start invading our farms.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER | 53

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54 | THE FARMLANDER

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YOUR NEW ZEALAND ROUNDWOOD SPECIALIST

PermaPine’s association with Farmlands and its shareholders stretches back over 15 years. Together with Farmlands and its other fencing suppliers we are proud to have grown the profile of this vital category. Farmlands are now one of the leading suppliers of Roundwood to farmers and fencers in New Zealand.

PermaPine is a fully owned New Zealand business and recently celebrated 15 years of operation. From the beginning our focus has been on manufacturing quality Roundwood and timber products. We partner with Farmlands to ensure the rural sector knows about our products. This relationship enables a nationwide distribution network and allows each party to focus on their strengths. This distribution model provides good value and offers a full solution encompassing a broad product range, technical advice and the security of knowing product is supported by warranties from reputable New Zealand businesses.

PermaPine are one of New Zealand’s most recent Roundwood brands. In just 15 years we have created a reputation for consistent quality and generous sizing. Our sales team are experienced rural experts and have a sound technical understanding. They understand the process involving log supply, production, wood drying and preservation. “They know the business” and operate with integrity. We have a comprehensive Quality Assurance programme which is particularly important in the Wood Preservation side of the PermaPine business, as our product is guaranteed against insect and fungal attack for 50 years. We stand by the product and we want you to have confidence that the Roundwood products you install will last. Fencers and installers are the end users of our product. It is important to PermaPine that we work closely with them to understand their needs, how we can assist them and add value to their businesses. We have been a Gold sponsor of the Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand (FCANZ) for a number of years now. Aside from investing back into our industry by supporting FCANZ, our objectives are to lift both the profile of fencing and the quality of the end product for landowners.

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important for landowners and manufacturers. Sustainability starts with sourcing radiata pine logs from plantation-grown forests which have been accredited as being grown and managed on a sustainable basis. During production, wood residues are formed that are used as an energy source, for animal bedding and to produce wood pallets. Sustainability is also about energy conservation and the use of energy sources that are renewable. This is a focus at PermaPine. The Roundwood market has been very buoyant over the past few years with strong demand from winegrowers, horticulturalists, the pastoral farming sector and construction. We encourage you to plan and order ahead of time to ensure you don’t experience delays with product availability. The team at PermaPine would like to thank you for your support over the last 15 years. www.permapine.co.nz

Available from your local Farmlands store. WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER | 55

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56 | THE FARMLANDER

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HEALTH AND SAFETY

Safe management of hazardous goods on-farm Data shows the highest number of incidents where people have been injured due to explosions on New Zealand farms occur during September. “Fortunately, explosions are a fairly uncommon occurrence,” says Al McCone, Agriculture Lead for WorkSafe New Zealand. “However, there are about 55 incidents annually, peaking at around eight during September. “Most farms have stores of fuel and chemicals and it’s essential to keep front of mind the importance of making sure these are stored and used correctly.

| Most farms have fuel and chemicals on-site and it is essential to keep these stored correctly and used safely.

flammable agrichemicals must be at least 20 metres from buildings

“That includes making sure everyone handling chemicals and fuels knows the hazards and how to keep safe and that you have procedures in place for managing emergencies.”

where people live and six metres

Many injuries are caused when fuel is used to help start a fire. Other causes of explosions can range from incorrect mixing of chemicals – some chemicals can form potentially flammable or explosive cocktails if accidentally mixed – to methane gas explosions or chemicals/fuels exploding due to a fire.

– flagging up what material is

Agrichemical stores must be well-built, well-ventilated and in a flood-free area. They should be built so any spill can be contained and cleaned up and spills will not flow into waterways. Incompatible agrichemicals should be kept at least three metres apart – check on the Hazardous Substances calculator www.hazardoussubstances.govt.nz/ calculator for these chemicals and the required distances. Stores with

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from flammable materials, such as hay bales and fuel stores. All stores must have fire extinguishers and there should be good signage stored, amounts, the hazards, how hazards may be managed and what to do in an emergency. Farmers must keep an inventory of products stored on site, their hazardous properties and quantities they are likely to have at any one time. “Manure gases are a risk that needs to be managed on farm,” says Al. “Decaying manure releases large amounts of gas when stored, pumped,

atmosphere. It can reach explosive levels during agitation or when gas is trapped in a poorly-ventilated space. Hydrogen sulphate smells of rotten eggs at low concentrations but deadens your sense of smell at high concentrations. It is highly toxic and causes dizziness, unconsciousness and death. Carbon dioxide is odourless. It pushes oxygen out of confined spaces, causing suffocation. Ammonia has a strong smell and irritates eyes, nose, mouth, throat and lungs. In a farm dairy, if your pit and platform wash pipes go straight to the effluent pond, ensure a water seal or gas trap is fitted, to prevent gas from entering the dairy.

is explosion – if it makes up between

Never smoke, weld, grind or use an open flame in a poorly-ventilated area. Never enter manure pits without wearing a respirator and having a rescue plan. Have an observer, who understands safe rescue procedures, to supervise manure pit work.

five percent and 15 percent of the

Article supplied by WorkSafe.

mixed, spread and cleaned out.” The four unsafe gases are methane, hydrogen sulphide, carbon dioxide and ammonia. Methane has no smell. Its main hazard

THE FARMLANDER | 57

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FARMLANDS FUEL

New tank and free fuel set shareholders up for spring Extra fuel to do groundwork on farm has seen the Maxwell’s storage and delivery requirements increase significantly in the last 12 months. Which is why the Wyndham sharemilkers were pumped to win the recent Farmlands fuel tank competition. Leaving the kids behind for a few days, Lindsay and Nina Maxwell (Milkwell Ltd) travelled up to Fieldays in June. The pair were not intending to purchase a fuel tank at the event but had been looking at their options for over a year. On popping into the Farmlands tent they discovered that the co-operative now has a wider range of Kingspan diesel storage solutions on offer for shareholders, including a new FuelMaster 1,550L option. “My fuel use has increased quite a bit over the last year because we are doing all the groundwork ourselves. For instance, we are now using direct drills, a rotor spike and an aerator – aerating in particular chews through the fuel,” says Lindsay.

| Nina and Lindsay Maxwell won some free fuel to go along with their new FuelMaster tank thanks to Farmlands’ promo at Fieldays.

he’d won the prize. Free fuel was the cherry on the top to an eventful

With the paperwork drafted, back to work they went, almost forgetting that there was a competition running for those Mystery Creek attendees signing up for a Kingspan tank. By entering, shareholders could win $2,000 worth of fuel (or 3 months’ worth – whichever came first). Luckily Lindsay realised that the draw was closing and completed his paperwork in time.

trip up north for the Maxwell’s.

One week after the shiny new tank arrived, Lindsay got a call from Keith Harris, his local Technical Field Officer from Invercargill to say

He is also pleased with the efficiencies

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

Coming out of winter and going into spring, with all the bills that entails, this proved to be a timely break for the family. “It was great news – it’s a handy little paycheck for us. $2,000 worth of fuel will keep us going for about a month and a half,” Lindsay reckons. gained from the new set-up. “I had a 900-diesel tank before which I was having to fill every

2 weeks. With the new one I can go for monthly fills, which is better for both us and Farmlands,” he explains. The new tank and free fuel are two less things to worry about when facing the thrills and spills of dairy farming. “We’re in the middle of calving at the moment. It’s going alright apart from the snow we had earlier in the week!” Lindsay muses. Interested in the Kingspan fuel tank range? Call us on 0800 666 626 or email fuelaccountmanagement@ farmlands.co.nz For more information visit www.farmlands.co.nz/fuel

THE FARMLANDER | 59

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60 | THE FARMLANDER

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Biosecurity tips for calf club This coming spring, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is advising calf club organisers how to take extra biosecurity steps to avoid the spread of Mycoplasma bovis (M. bovis).

Getting ready for calf club 2019

MPI has created a poster and a teacher pack with basic biosecurity tips, to keep our calves healthy on the day. The disease spreads primarily through nose-to-nose contact.

If you can tick these boxes for calf day, you’ll be keeping your animals healthy and helping to stop diseases like Mycoplasma bovis from spreading around New Zealand. Does your calf have its own:

Packs have been sent by mail to more than 1,000 rural schools, providing tips to make calf club safe for our rural communities. There’s advice on: • How to transport and hold calves (ideally in separate pens, or at least 2 metres apart and with their own water and food containers) • Being registered with NAIT

Food and water containers? Halter and lead? Is your calf: Tied up at least 2 metres away from other calves?

• Ensuring the environment is safe for both calves and people. Bringing animals from different herds together poses a relatively low risk of disease spread, but with precautions in place, hazards can be reduced and

s re et m

fun events like these can still go ahead. Calf club is part of rural life. However in the wake of the M. bovis outbreak, some events have not gone ahead. MPI is getting behind the clubs to ensure that with good biosecurity, any risks are kept to a minimum and calf club is fun for everyone. For resources on M. bovis go to www.biosecurity.govt.nz/ protection-and-response/ mycoplasma-bovis Information supplied by the Ministry for Primary Industries.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER | 61

Celebrating

generations on the land

HAS YOUR LAND BEEN IN YOUR BLOOD FOR MORE THAN 100 YEARS? The New Zealand Century Farm and Station Awards aim to capture and preserve this important rural history which might otherwise be lost through the generations. New Zealand farming families who have owned and worked their land for 100 years or more are invited to apply for a Century Farm, Century Station or Sesquicentennial (150 year) award.

APPLICATIONS CLOSE 30th NOVEMBER 2019

For more information on how to apply, visit www.centuryfarms.co.nz Enquiries: email info@centuryfarms.co.nz or phone Mel on 027 232 9963 or Karen on 03 485 9696.

FAR_08894

THANKS TO OUR PRINCIPAL SPONSORS

62 | THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

The New Zealand Century Farm and Station Awards aim to capture and preserve the history of our country’s farming families. Each month we will share stories from Farmlands shareholders who have worked their land for 100 years or more.

A family focus in Hunterville For almost 140 years the Duncan/ Grace families have made Otairi Station their home. In 1840, Andrew and Margaret Duncan and their two young sons, John and Andrew Junior, emigrated to New Zealand from Scotland and settled in Whanganui.

| Te Kumu today.

During the late 1870s, local tribal leaders looked to sell a large block of land adjacent to the Turakina River called “Otairi”, a region largely unexplored by Pakehas. John Duncan, who spoke fluent Maˉori and his brother, Andrew were interested in purchasing and met with a senior chief, Piripi Te Aokapurangi. A deal was struck and the Otairi purchase was finalised in 1881 – sight unseen.

mid-January to the end of April.

In late 1881, felling began and soon 250ha per year was being cleared on the fledging station and hand sown in grass.

established a hospital in Whanganui

In 1909 Thomas, better known as T.A. Duncan, third son of John, took over from his father. By 1911, large scale fencing and extensive topdressing by hand were priorities. They were running 30,000 Romney sheep and 200 head of cattle. At peak times, there were 50 people on the payroll and as many as 80 dogs to feed.

In 1962 at the age of 21, Christopher

From 1900 until 1963, Otairi sent regular consignments of cattle and sheep by train to the Gear Meat Works in Petone. By 1920, 2,000 fat wethers were sent each week from

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

T.A. Duncan set high standards for himself and expected others to follow. He had a strong sense of public duty and was a renowned philanthropist. In 1922, he was a founding member (and later chairman) of the Meat Board. After the war, he delivered a free gift of 200 prime Otairi bullock carcasses to London, which was still under severe rationing. He was knighted in 1951 and for the care and rehabilitation of polio victims. He died in 1960, aged 87. Grace, grandson of T.A. and youngest son of George and Jeannie Grace (T.A.’s youngest daughter) approached his four uncles to take over as supervisor – an undertaking he continued for 25 years until 1987. In 1981, Otairi Station celebrated its centenary and at that time comprised 4,900ha and was carrying 20,000 breeding ewes, 5,000 hoggets and 1,500 cattle. Lambing was near to 100 percent and the importance of good stewardship for future

| Fencing in 1932.

generations was acknowledged. In 1995, the fifth generation decided the number of shareholders posed a threat to the efficient operation of the station. After six months of deliberations, a “family auction” concluded with Christopher Grace purchasing “Te Kumu” outright, while the rest of the station was retained by the Duncan family. The Te Kumu block comprised 1,485ha at the eastern end of the original Otairi block, fronting Watershed Road, some 25km north-east of Hunterville, and included the highest point on the station, Tauporae Trig at 2,650ft. Still today, after an early morning muster of the 1,000-acre paddock named Tauporae, the shepherds say, “you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere”.

THE FARMLANDER | 63

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64 | THE FARMLANDER

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Real Estate market update Winter is typically a quiet time for real estate. But it can also reveal realistic opportunities for buyers as many vendors are motivated, for various reasons, to sell during this period. Rural Data recently released by the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) shows there were 1,342 farms sold in the year to June 2019. This was 9 percent fewer than were sold in the year to June 2018, with 37 percent less dairy farms, 6 percent more grazing farms, 14 percent less finishing farms and 19 percent less arable farms sold over the same period. If you are considering selling your farm, now is the time. With limited stock available, buyers are finding it hard to find a suitable property. We have buyers looking for dairy, horticulture and finishing farms.

Lifestyle

centres, our provincial sales figures

There were 1,876 lifestyle property sales in the three months ended June 2019, compared to 1,995 lifestyle property sales for the three months ended June 2018 (- 6 percent) and 1,934 lifestyle property sales for the three months ended May 2019 (- 3 percent).

are strong and we are seeing a

We have quality lifestyle properties available for buyers across provincial New Zealand. Contact one of our team or view the lifestyle section on our new website, www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

number of first home buyers moving to the provinces. Timaru, Waimate, Westport, Hokitika, Masterton, Palmerston North, Whangarei and Kaitaia have been popular choices for buyers. Rotorua, Dunedin and Canterbury are also showing positive signs in the residential sector. Note: all percentage figures rounded. Join our team At Farmlands Real Estate, we have a clear vision to double our size in

Residential The number of residential properties sold across New Zealand in June fell by 4 percent from the same time last year to 5,978 (down from 6,213), according to the latest data from the REINZ. Although there has been a drop in the metropolitan

the next three years by providing outstanding real estate services to our clients, including our 70,000 shareholders, throughout provincial New Zealand. We are looking for rural, residential and lifestyle real estate Sales Professionals to join our successful team. Areas of opportunity are: Greymouth, Blenheim, Nelson, Darfield, Leeston, Hawera, Bell Block, Masterton, Hastings, Whangarei, Kaitaia, Tauranga, Invercargill, Dunedin, Wanaka, Alexandra and Cromwell. Whether you are a seasoned real estate professional, or you are looking for a career change that allows you to reap the rewards of your hard work, we would love to hear from you. For a confidential chat please contact Jason Wills on 027 619 9784 or visit www.farmlandscareers.co.nz for more information.

| Many vendors are motivated, for various reasons, to sell at this time of year.

66 | THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

REAL ESTATE

Boundary indicative only

Ngatea | Cropping block − two houses, two titles 12.4 hectares of flat contour located minutes from Ngatea and just over an hours drive to Auckland or our beautiful NZ coastline. This property has been growing maize grain for the last 15 seasons and has provided a comfortable living for two families with two houses on separate titles. Improvements include a large 9-bay half round, 4-bay concrete floor workshop, 3-bay hay barn and a free-range chook run. Water is sourced at the gate of both properties via the Hauraki Water Scheme. Two houses and two titles. Buy one or buy them both, the choice is yours. Tender closing 2pm, Thursday 5 September 2019.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

Property ID: RX1993070 www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

Chelly Aitchison Lifestyle / Rural – Morrinsville 022 697 8779 chelly.aitchison@farmlands.co.nz Ian Morgan Lifestyle / Rural – Matamata 027 492 5878 ian.morgan@farmlands.co.nz

THE FARMLANDER | 67

Wanaka | It begins with the landscape Located in the stunning alps of New Zealand’s South Island, visitors from around the world are drawn to the Wanaka region by its outstanding natural beauty. But it’s not just the outdoor enthusiasts who have plenty to do. Stroll the streets and be inspired by the galleries, stylish shops and be spoilt for choice with a great selection of cool cafes and restaurants. You can be part of this with a superb selection of sections from 400m2 for $339,000. Ten percent deposit will hold your section until the issue of Title expected mid 2020.

68 | THE FARMLANDER

Property ID: RX1979129 www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

Dave Varney Lifestyle / Rural – Central Otago 027 476 7032 dave.varney@farmlands.co.nz

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

REAL ESTATE

Te Awamutu | Opportunity starts here Dairy unit milking around 430 cows with production historically around 172,000kgs of milk solids produced from a low-cost system. 40 aside herringbone dairy, 400 cow feed pad, two 300 ton concrete sprayed feed bunkers, calf sheds, implement sheds and solid waste effluent separation system in place. Housing consists of two comfortable three bedroom homes. Approximately 140 hectares of flat to gentle rolling contour with the balance rolling to steep. May suit a land use change to maize growing or enjoy the unique milk supply advantages with the Synlait Milk contract. Price by negotiation.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

Property ID: RX1728876 www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

Ian Morgan Lifestyle / Rural – Matamata 027 492 5878 ian.morgan@farmlands.co.nz Glen Murray Lifestyle / Rural – Matamata 027 488 6138 glen.murray@farmlands.co.nz

THE FARMLANDER | 69

Property ID: RX1980604

Te Puke | Kiwifruit opportunity

www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

A great opportunity to secure a substantial, well-established Hayward Green orchard of 5.1 canopy hectares on No 3 Road. Production of 10,508 trays 2019 season. Excellent TZG of 74 and good fruit size at 34.5. Additional areas could be planted to increase canopy area to approximately 5.4 canopy hectares. With the improved Chieftain strip males and recent shelter trimming, this orchard is ready for improved production. Plus there’s a great 220m2 family home of five bedrooms, two bathrooms with an office and attached garage. Price by negotiation.

Brett Ashworth Lifestyle / Rural – Te Puke 021 0261 7488 brett.ashworth@farmlands.co.nz

Property ID: RX1956192

Opotiki | Escape to paradise

www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

A great chance to grab your own slice of real Kiwi paradise, in a beautiful native bush clad valley. An amazing outlook up and down the valley from the sun drenched deck. A great little home of 80m2 has just been renovated. Room for a couple of horses or graze a few cattle on the approximately 1.2ha of grazing in three flat paddocks and one hill paddock. You’ll feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, when you’re only 10 minutes from town. A great hunting, fishing and hiking holiday base. Price $400,000.

70 | THE FARMLANDER

Brett Ashworth Lifestyle / Rural – Te Puke 021 0261 7488 brett.ashworth@farmlands.co.nz

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

REAL ESTATE

Property ID: RX1957231

Mangere Bridge | Great rental investment

www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

Leased to Housing New Zealand. Situated at Mangere Bridge, Auckland. This tidy two bedroom brick and tile unit has a level access bathroom and single garage attached. Located in a very attractive area with well-maintained homes, close to schools and shopping. The annual lease is $22,728 to Housing NZ for a 15 year term, expiry date 30 March 2025. Price $630,000. Douglas Boyde Lifestyle / Rural – Pukekohe 027 494 6714 douglas.boyde@farmlands.co.nz

Property ID: RX1977794

Oropi | Country outlook, city location, sunny Tauranga • Popular lower Oropi location • Recently redecorated with contemporary colours and furnishings • Four double bedrooms and en suite • Self-contained one bedroom apartment • Excellent outdoor entertaining area with beautiful new swimming pool • 3,400m2 section with room for a large workshop • Five minute drive to schools and shopping • Price $1,195,000

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

Vanessa Charman-Moore Lifestyle / Rural – Tauranga 027 242 7646 vanessa.charman-moore@farmlands.co.nz

THE FARMLANDER | 71

This September, join Farmlands in the fight against prostate cancer. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s three ways you can help at your local Farmlands store!

Purchase a limited-edition reusable bag for only $5.

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FAR_09037

Visit www.farmlands.co.nz or your local store to learn about Blue September and our Blue Do events.