Farmlander February 2017 North by Farmlands

SPECIAL OFFERS AND INFORMATION FOR FARMLANDS SHAREHOLDERS

FEBRUARY 2017 Valid from 1â&#x20AC;&#x201C;28 February 2017

The FARMLANDER 5 MINUTES WITH ZESPRI PAGE 15

FARMLANDS AND TOYOTA TEAM UP

THE BUSINESS OF WELLBEING THE EMERGING MARKETS ISSUE PAGE 6

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GREAT CARD PARTNER DEALS INSIDE!

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FARML AND TO

LANDS OYOTA A great partnership on the horizon Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re proud to welcome the wide range and proven performance of our new vehicle partner Toyota. From the 1st of March Farmlands shareholders will have access to exclusive pricing across the entire Toyota range.

Visit www.farmlands.co.nz/Toyota to register for pricing information.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

FEBRUARY

INTEREST

PLAN 365

Farmlands and Toyota team up

Plan365 Nutrition

Farmlands staff profile

20 Sugar in the ruminant diet

From the CEO

21 My lifestyle block – Cheryl Ford and Geoff Chapman

Special Feature – The business of wellbeing

23 Increasing muscle and topline in performance horses

Horse of the Year

Buying Power Promise

25 Balanced nutrient intakes support animal health and welfare

Farmlands 5 minutes

Plan365 Forage and Arable

Community spirit triumphs in Kaikoura

Arapawa goats – no ordinary tale

26 Weed control options to increase productivity of autumn sown pasture

Farmlands Livestock

27 Insect pest control in forage brassicas

Farmlands Card

29 Proven, productive and persistent ryegrass

Farmlands Fuel

30 Being savvy on the milking platform

Footwear for your lifestyle

Gulf Oil partners with THE Expo

31 Effective removal of persistent weeds in the pasture renewal cycle

Farmlands Real Estate Update

33 Two ways to improve your autumn spray-out 34 Super clover offers multiple benefits to farmers 35 Remove tough broadleaf weeds before you sow this autumn

SPECIAL OFFERS AND INFORMATION FOR

FARMLANDS SHAREHOLDERS

37 Lose less heat, gain more feed energy

FEBRUARY 2017 Valid from

1–28 February 2017

The FARMLANDER

38 Manage velvetleaf before it becomes a serious problem 39 Don’t take chances with autumn pasture establishment

5 MINUTES WITH ZESPRI PAGE 15

Plan365 Animal Management

FARMLAND S AND TOYOTA TEAM UP PAGE 2

WHAT’S ON

FEBRUARY Taupo Fishing Competition Get out your luckiest fishing lure and join us at Lake Taupo!

FEBRUARY Waikato Fishing Competition The rivalry and contest will be fierce – join us for the chance to win great prizes!

40 Shearing shed safety 41 Getting more prime lambs out the gate faster

THE EMERGING MARKETS ISSUE PAGES 6-12

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Plan365 Horticulture

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THE BUSINESS OF WELLBEING

42 Maximising returns on G3 gold kiwifruit

INSIDE!

44 Choosing the right rain water tank

ON THE COVER We talk to Farmlands shareholders that have found success in the health and wellbeing markets.

4 | THE FARMLANDER

Grass Roots Game Day

45 Eliminate overflowing or empty troughs 46 Troughs – how big, how many?

Special prices and offers apply from the 1st to the 28th of February 2017. Only while stocks last. Check your Farmlands store for product availability. All prices include GST unless otherwise stated. Savings based on Farmlands normal retail price. Note: The “Your Price” advertised in The Farmlander magazine is the price that a Farmlands shareholder will be charged if the advertised products are purchased during the promotional period. Farmlands stores also use a “net” price (discounted price without a rebate) to attract cash sale customers and potential shareholders. *Savings based on Farmlands normal retail price.

Accounts are payable at Farmlands Head Office or any store by the 20th of each month. Failure to pay an Account by Due Date is a Default Event under the Terms and Conditions and Farmlands is then at its discretion entitled to: suspend or terminate the Account; charge interest at 2% per month; reverse discounts or credit rebates; debit other Shareholder Accounts; make demand on a Card Signatory; debit any default administration costs incurred; register a mortgage over land; terminate shareholding. Farmlands shareholders have the option to pay their Accounts either in part or in full by MasterCard or Visa Credit Card. Payment by any credit card will not entitle the shareholder to receive Bonus

FEBRUARY

Plan365 Rural Infrastructure

EXP 07/17

9110477

Join us in Waverley for Hurricanes vs BNZ Crusaders.

Rebates for the month paid or part paid. Neither Farmlands nor any other person involved in the preparation of this document accepts any liability for any opinion or information (including the accuracy or completeness thereof) or for any consequences flowing from its use. The information contained in this document is given in good faith, has been derived from sources perceived to be reliable and accurate and is subject to Farmlands Terms and Conditions. Not all products are available at all Farmlands stores. Offers valid at Farmlands North Island stores only.

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FARMLANDS STAFF PROFILE Melissa King Q: What is your current role at Farmlands? A: Business Manager – Farmlands Gore. Q: What type of work were you doing before you started at Farmlands? A: Team Leadership and Senior Rural Account Management at NZME – The Farming Show/Hokonui.

FROM THE CEO Welcome to the first issue of The Farmlander magazine for 2017. I hope everyone had a chance to fit in a break over the holiday period.

Q: Tell us a bit about your family. A: I am married to Matt and we have three children, Molly (12), Ben (11) and Ella (9). We live just out of Gore with about 80 acres of farm. Q: If you could live anywhere else in the world, where would it be? A: Wanaka would be my pick. Q: You just won $100,000 on an Instant Kiwi! What are you going to do with it? A: A family holiday somewhere warm and tropical, do some well overdue house renovations and farm purchasing would probably be factored in there somewhere too.

We are confident 2017 will be a good year for your co-operative and with that in mind, I would like to provide you with an exciting update regarding our Farmlands Finance business. At a date to be confirmed but likely 1st March, Farmlands will (rather than provide its own finance) offer financing products such as Creditline, Term Loans and Hire Purchase through a new external partner, Finance Now. Finance Now is a subsidiary of the SBS Bank, a co-operative bank. It is important to note that the aligned finance offers we provide to shareholders will be unaffected by this change. Effectively it is business as usual, just with a new partner providing high levels of expertise. We are working with Finance Now to ensure there is minimal disruption through the change process. We have been identifying opportunities at Farmlands that allow us to respond quickly and effectively to whatever our sector challenges us with. One of the business areas we have focused on is our network of partnerships with external providers. These have been successful for us in the past (e.g. FMG, Meridian and Spark) and following a full review, we have decided to extend this successful partnership model to the way we provide financial services.

Melissa’s Mexican Pile Up Ingredients 5 ripe avocados, mashed

4 tomatoes, diced

Juice of 1 lemon

3 spring onions, chopped

1 packet of taco seasoning mix

Grated cheese

1 small tub of light sour cream

Corn chips

3 heaped tablespoons of plain mayonnaise

This is both a logical and positive move for Farmlands. Shareholders will benefit through competitive rates and more comprehensive service offerings and through an enhanced contribution to the Farmlands balance sheet from Finance Now. At this stage, our Livestock Finance business will continue to be managed internally. If you have any questions regarding this update, please talk to your local Business Manager. I wish you all the best for a profitable year ahead. Kind regards,

Method 1. For the first layer, combine the avocados and lemon juice. Place in the middle of a large platter or serving bowl. 2. Combine taco seasoning mix, sour cream and mayonnaise and lay mixture on top of the first layer. 3. Mix tomatoes and spring onions together and lay mixture over layers one and two. 4. Sprinkle grated cheese on top of the pile up and serve with corn chips.

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Peter Reidie Chief Executive Officer Farmlands Co-operative Society Limited

THE FARMLANDER | 5

SPECIAL FEATURE

The business of wellbeing Meet the Farmlands shareholders finding success in niche markets. 6 | THE FARMLANDER

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| New Zealand Manuka Group Chief Executive, Karl Gradon.

Dairy, sheep and beef, horticulture and viticulture. The staples of New Zealand’s primary sector have remained the same for many years, even when their popularity has ebbed and flowed. But Kiwis have made a habit of discovering gaps in the market that cater to every niche – whether at a local level or exporting to the farthest parts of the globe. As these markets grow in popularity, so too do the number of Farmlands shareholders that are diversifying their businesses. Trying to keep up with Karl Gradon could be a business all to itself. As the Chief Executive of NZ Manuka Group, a Farmlands shareholder, Karl is responsible for steering the ever-expanding company’s portfolio. In the past 5 years, NZ Manuka Group has grown impressively – it now has 100 people on the ranks as either suppliers or staff. But this business is a group for a reason – manuka honey is only part of the story. “Basically I’ve been in the business for 12 months, taking over the CEO role from Phil Caskey, our founder,” Karl explains.

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“I’ve been tasked with taking the amazing platform that has been built through the next phase of growth.” “He (Phil) was the first person to export manuka honey in a container. Originally he was in the deer industry and was exporting velvet to Korea and exported a deer velvet/honey extract combo. The next order that came back said that they liked the product but could they please take the velvet out of it.” The popularity of manuka honey resulted in Phil investigating its medicinal properties. Karl says Phil became the first to get a patent to treat antibiotic-resistant MRSA and has worked with Dr Peter Molan at the University of Waikato to both undertake trials and receive patents to create medical devices from manuka honey. “Manuka honey is something that is uniquely New Zealand but with a medicinal benefit – it’s quite high in status and is renowned as a quality, specialist product,” Karl says. “The future for us is not just the honey but really we want to understand manuka the tree and the benefits that come from that tree in a way that no one else can.

THE FARMLANDER | 7

“We’ve got three PhDs on our team, as well as Masters students doing research and development that goes to the tree. We’re tracing it right back to the tree and that’s why we’re the largest manuka oil producer in the country. It’s antimicrobial – one drop is like delivering one case of high UMF manuka honey product due to its microbial qualities.” New Zealand Manuka Group has grown its business to include six clusters, or bee keeping hubs. The clusters range from three to six people per hub. “We have an excellent activity system but the most unique thing about our business is our vertical integration,” Karl says. “Thirty five percent of the honey value goes back to the land owner. It’s extremely high – we call it our fair share programme. “We target who we want to partner up with transparently for the next 20 years – we want a very successful land owner, not just successful bee keepers. We’re seeing great results on the East Cape. This year we are planting 4 million trees onto plantation with Maori Trusts. Land is sacred and on the East Cape they’ve had very few opportunities to develop – we are coming in and employing their families and the locals to grow a plantation of

manuka that is for both honey and oil. This is different to the rest of the industry, which is focused on honey alone. “It’s a unique way of formally joint venturing with Maori trusts, making sure it goes all the way back to local communities, not just the land owners.” Manufacturing honey is not without its pitfalls, of which the most widely known is varroa. Karl says New Zealand Manuka Group is very conscious of disease, with varroa a problem in different locations.

“

We’re tracing it right back to the tree and that’s why we’re the largest manuka oil producer in the country.

| NZ Manuka Group now has 100 suppliers and staff.

8 | THE FARMLANDER

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| New Zealand Manuka Group founder, Phil Caskey.

“Different clusters have had different levels of concern,” Karl says. “With good management we’re able to stay on top of it. If someone lets it go, it can be really hard to recover from – you get hive die-off and low to no yield.” New Zealand Manuka Group now has 70 stores across the country selling their products, with a secondary goal of selling product into Asia. Karl says the focus is on growing the New Zealand base, because it is easier to tell a story in Asia when you have a good presence in New Zealand. “We have developed a seaweed business as well and have created bee tonic to help keep hive health strong,” he says. “It’s been designed by bee keepers for bee keepers. These tonics can now be added to the supplementary feed when there is no pollen over winter. “It’s quite unique, we’re trying to build all of our activities into symbiotic systems.”

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THE FARMLANDER | 9

Manuka for medicine may be proving popular but for Robin Greer, organic is extraordinary. A Farmlands shareholder from Mataura, Robin and his wife Lois are the masterminds behind Retro Organics, a business that creates a range of boutique dairy products. Robin started his working career with a butchery apprenticeship, before deciding that dairy farming suited him more. After sharemilking in the Waikato for 12 years, he bought his first farm in Southland 25 years ago. His path to organic dairy farming was a personal one. His family has a history of cancer, so he decided to take the chemicals out of the farming system. “We produce a product that is better for people – we ended up organic because of that,” Robin says. “We did it over a reasonable length of time. It wasn’t an instant change, because we weren’t actually setting out to be organic. We just wanted to take the chemicals out of the systems – so we set up management systems to cope. There was no dramatic change as such.”

Retro Organics runs its operation through the Armagh Family Trust, on two dairy farms and a support block near Gore. There are 800 Jerseys being milked on 300 hectares, with another 160 hectares leased. “We started about 12 to 14 years ago and slowly built it from there. The main thing is the fertilisers you put on, which you can replace with organic substitutes. Seed control is a bit of a challenge, which means a lot more labour without chemicals. “With animal health, you need to be a lot more proactive as well. You’re preventing things, rather than curing things.”

“

We produce a product that is better for people... We just wanted to take the chemicals out of the systems.

| Mataura shareholders Robin and Lois Greer.

10 | THE FARMLANDER

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| Retro Organics make a range of cheeses, yoghurts and milk.

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THE FARMLANDER | 11

| Demand for organic products is growing.

The practices employed on the farm allow Robin to make a range of chemical-free cheeses, yoghurts and milk, as well as a lactose-free yoghurt and milk range. “The lactose-free yoghurt is the only one in New Zealand, it’s a Greek yoghurt. We do natural, honey, raspberry, orange and mango flavours,” Robin says. “We also do a range of 14 different cheeses, including camembert, feta and haloumi. We do some organic liquid milk as well.” Demand for these organic products is growing and key to the success is the diversity of the business model. Having just one product would make the reach of these niche products limited but having a wider range makes logistics that much easier. “The fact is that if you’re going to send a box of product to the store, it costs the same to send a full box as it does to send a half full box,” Robin says. As the business grows, so too does the family involvement. Robin’s son manages the farm and his daughter works in the factory. And with Retro Organics products making their way into supermarkets around New Zealand, Robin feels vindicated in his decision to be chemical-free. “We’re always going to be looking at how we can do things. But it’s more about how we can do things better, including what we are already doing.”

| Lois and Robin at their Southland property.

12 | THE FARMLANDER

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CO-OPERATIVE NEWS

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THE FARMLANDER | 13

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www.farmlands.co.nz Terms and Conditions apply. Savings and Discounts based on normal retail price. While stocks last. Prices valid from 1st - 28th February 2017.

14 | THE FARMLANDER

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FARMLANDS 5 MINUTES

5 minutes with Lain Jager The kiwifruit industry has had a fantastic 12 months. Do you feel 2017 is going to follow suit? One certainty about the kiwifruit industry is that no two seasons are the same. We have had a record crop volume in the 2016 season but the 2017 season will likely see reduced Green volumes. Meanwhile, supply volume and sales of our SunGold variety will continue to grow, driven by robust demand and a very positive consumer response in the markets. We go into 2017 with a sense of confidence, focused on delivering value to growers. What do you think have been the key reasons behind this recent success? The performance of 2016/2017 is the result of a long-term strategy to deliver the best portfolio of kiwifruit for 12 months of the year. There are several elements. I would highlight our significant investment in breeding, which has delivered the SunGold cultivar. Secondly is our focus on taste and quality, which differentiates our products from competitor varieties. Another element is our investment in brand and marketing. Zespri is now among the top five best recognised brands in many of our biggest markets. What are the current key markets for Zespri and what emerging markets are you focusing on? Zespri currently sells kiwifruit in over 50 markets, the largest being Japan, China and Europe. China, already our second biggest volume

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market, is a significant opportunity for growth as we expand sales into second tier cities. We are also excited about growth potential in markets such as India, North America and South East Asia. Do you see further expansion of kiwifruit growing areas in New Zealand? Yes. There are currently around 12,000 hectares in production in New Zealand and growing areas are likely to expand steadily over the next 5 years. This will be driven particularly by developments of SunGold orchards. For example, Zespri allocated 400 hectares of new SunGold licence in 2016 with half of that volume being taken up for Greenfield plantings and half for cutover from Green. The regional spread was concentrated in the Bay of Plenty but there were allocations also in Gisborne, Waikato, Auckland, Coromandel, Hawkeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bay and Northland. We understand that Zespri is working with growers overseas to enable a 12 month supply into key Northern Hemisphere markets. Is this strategy proving successful? Yes it is. Our Zespri Global Supply business continues to be a source of competitive advantage, allowing Zespri to supply retail customers for 12 months of the year. Zespri currently sources kiwifruit in Italy, France, South Korea and Japan and total supply during 2016/2017 is nearly 19 million trays. Supply is poised for strong

Lain Jager, Zesp

ri Chief Executive .

growth over the next 5 years. This will be driven mainly by SunGold expansion in Italy and incremental increases in procurement of Green to meet demand. What strategies will Zespri employ to maintain market share and grower returns as kiwifruit production in other countries ramps up? Zespri is committed to preserving its position as the category leader through delivering a high quality product and a premium, branded strategy. As well as providing the markets with best-inclass products, we are also ensuring our distribution design and sales and marketing models are optimised to unlock value, building penetration and frequency of consumption by developing brand resonance in established markets and leveraging our resource to drive growth in our 27 strategic markets.

THE FARMLANDER | 15

SHAREHOLDER FOCUS

Community spirit triumphs in Kaikoura At 12.02am on Monday 14th

Farmlands Kaikoura Business

they have been able to help each

November last year, shareholders

Manager Dallas Curtis knows first-

other. There have been shareholders

in Kaikoura received a terrifying

hand how special her community

that have been sharing their milking

wake-up call. It was strong enough

is. Her home suffered damage in

sheds, so others can milk their cows.

to jolt people out of bed across

the earthquake but she has been

There were people sharing generators

a large part of the country and

impressed by both the support she has

between farms to help out and get

left behind terrible damage.

received and the resourcefulness of

through milking. Even people outside

Farmlands shareholders in the area.

the Kaikoura area – Culverden and

“For a lot of them, it is still a big

Oxford – donated their generators for

In the months after the 7.8 magnitude earthquake and the aftershocks

process to go through,” Dallas says.

use and sent them here to Kaikoura

that have followed, the images of

“It’s such a busy time of the year, doing

so dairy farms could use them.”

destruction have been tempered by

baleage and the other tasks you’re

Dallas says while there was plenty

the emerging stories of community

dealing with, without having to build a

of frustration early on, the united

spirit. This was never more prevalent

new cow shed or accommodation.

response from communities and

than in rural areas, where outside

“That’s why it has been great to talk

business has provided relief. What

support took longer to arrive.

to our shareholders and hear how

has become obvious in the days,

16 | THE FARMLANDER

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SHAREHOLDER FOCUS

weeks and months that followed is that the response effort has provided critical support in unique ways. There is the sharemilker from Culverden, who travelled to Kaikoura to volunteer as a relief milker to those needing a break. The New Zealand Army supported farmers by carrying stock through to Farmlands Kaikoura, so shareholders could grab emergency supplies to help get their farms up and running. Another feature of the relief response was the combined response by primary sector businesses. Federated Farmers co-ordinated a channelled response from a group of organisations, including the Ministry of Primary Industries, Farmlands, FMG, Beef + Lamb New Zealand, Fonterra and Dairy NZ. By combining the resources of so many key stakeholders in the primary sector, the group was

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able to streamline support efforts to make sure everyone was catered for. Dallas says working together extended to other traditional areas as well, making sure everyone in the rural community was brought together. “Rather than all having our individual Christmas parties, it was suggested we have a combined event at the racecourse. All the rural suppliers – Farmlands, the Vet, PGG, Dunlea Products, Gordon Handy Machinery, Hunting and Fishing and even South Pacific Helicopters were on board for the day,” she says. “MPI funded all the food, Beef + Lamb New Zealand came to the party with even more food and we had a bouncy castle for the kids. It was attended by at least 200 people.” Having spent the past few months cleaning up and working with other affected members of the Kaikoura community, Dallas has some tips for

Farmlands shareholders that may not be prepared for a disaster on the level of November’s earthquake. “Make sure you have a generator. From my own personal experience, have a water supply that is able to be used in an emergency and a generator with available petrol. With most rural people, if you’ve got your generator, water and petrol you’re OK. Most rural people have food on hand. “And don’t sweat the small stuff. It (the earthquake) kind of made you put things in perspective.” While it may not feature on the news each night, the clean up for Kaikoura, Culverden, Clarence, Waiau, Seddon and other areas continues. Dallas is grateful to live in a community that responds and adapts so well. “After all of it, there has been quite a lot of positive feeling. Like we’re part of our own big co-operative.”

THE FARMLANDER | 17

SHAREHOLDER FOCUS

Arapawa goats – no ordinary tale Searching for a goat for her hobby farm in Masterton, Farmlands shareholder Alison Sutherland came across a breed with a fascinating background and was inspired to write a book about their history in New Zealand. Alison and her husband Alan moved from Wellington to Masterton around 15 years ago and eventually purchased a 9 acre block of land near Kuripuni. They moved an old cottage onto the property and Alison says this began one of the most enjoyable, productive, physically challenging and busiest periods of their lives. “Having acquired three miniature horses, some chickens, ducks, calves and sheep, we had our hobby farm,” she says.

In 2009, Alison suggested to her husband that they add to their farm by getting a goat. “Never having been close to a goat, I began searching the internet to see what breed might suit us,” Alison says. “I happened upon the story of New Zealand’s Arapawa goats and purchased a breeding pair. As many farmers will tell you, making a small decision around what animal and breed to choose can change the direction of one’s life. It certainly changed ours.”

writing her book, “No Ordinary Goat: The Story of New Zealand’s Arapawa Goats”. The book describes how the goats came to be an important part of New Zealand history. One of the rarest goat breeds in the world, the New Zealand Arapawa goat was found isolated on the island of Arapawa in the Marlborough Sounds. No Ordinary Goat provides evidence to support the belief that the Arapawa goats are direct

Alison and Alan now have a whole family of Arapawa goats on their farm – two bucks, nine does, one wether and four kids. They breed the goats once a year and sell around 10-12 kids each year to people all over New Zealand. “They’re my paddock pets,” Alison says. “I spend hours with them every day – they’re big time wasters. They can become very affectionate but they’re quite aristocratic animals. Mine have the run of a number of paddocks, so they might just sit on the hill and quietly watch. They’re just beautiful.” Alison fell in love with the history of the Arapawa breed and wanted to share their story. A former teacher and behaviour specialist, Alison retired in 2013 to focus on researching and

| No Ordinary Goat by Alison Sutherland.

18 | THE FARMLANDER

| Alison with Blaze.

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SHAREHOLDER FOCUS

descendants of the now extinct “Olde English” breed. In 1773, Captain Cook released two goats on Arapawa Island’s East Bay and gifted another pair to local Maori. On a subsequent trip in 1777, he gave another pair to a Maori chief in nearby Ship Cove. There are currently 217 Arapawa goats living in domestication in New Zealand. The book includes 50 colour photos, several of which were donated. An aspiring young photographer, Sarah Luke, also spent several hours at Alison’s farm photographing her goats for the book. “They’re a bit wary of strangers, so they were a little bit anxious but Sarah just very quietly blended into the paddock with them until they relaxed with her and she took some amazing photographs,” Alison says.

Alison established the New Zealand Arapawa Goat Association in 2012 and also created the New Zealand registry for Arapawa goats living in domestication.

to Arapawa Island last year as they

As the association’s co-ordinator, she sends out a newsletter to more than 100 members located all over the world, which includes facts and stories, as well as information for people new to raising goats. “Many people are buying Arapawa goats now – there’s getting quite a demand for them but many people have never had goats before and certainly not a heritage goat,” Alison says. “Many people think you have goats for milk or meat but the Arapawa is a heritage goat, so they have become quite popular for people with small holdings.”

goats and the Olde English milking

Alison accompanied a BBC film crew

just incredibly contented animals.”

filmed a documentary about rare breeds. “They became really interested in the Arapawa goat story because of the connection between Arapawa goats – and of course the story of the Arapawa goat coming to New Zealand with Captain Cook.” The documentary was screened in the UK in January. Alison says she doesn’t have any plans to write another book just yet but if she were to be inspired to write another book, it would be on the raising and caring for Arapawa goats in domestication. “They are just the most amazing animals to have around,” Alison says. “The goats are easy care – they are

| Lorna at Millard Farm.

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THE FARMLANDER | 19

NUTRITION

Sugar in the ruminant diet Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for rumen microorganisms and consequently, are also indirectly the main source of energy for the host ruminant animal. Rumen microorganisms utilise carbohydrates and produce volatile fatty acids, which are then absorbed by the ruminant animal as a form of energy.

(which is another readily fermentable carbohydrate), sugar is used up much faster by microorganisms and hence disappears from the rumen at a much faster rate. About 90 percent of the dry

Sugar is one of the three types of

Adding sugar to a diet that is low in sugar can be beneficial, as if the rumen microorganisms do not have an adequate source of rapidly fermentable energy they may be functioning suboptimally, slowing digestion down. Adding sugar, for example from molasses (65 percent of dry matter is sugar) or carrots (30 percent of dry matter is sugar) to a silage based total mixed ration can help to increase dry matter intake. Anything we can do to improve the functionality of rumen microorganisms will be beneficial in terms of production responses, due to improved efficiency of digestion.

carbohydrates. Sugar is classed as a “non-structural” carbohydrate and is the most soluble and readily fermentable of the carbohydrates. When comparing sugar to starch

matter in molasses (which is high in sugar) will be fermented in the first hour following consumption, compared to about 20 percent of the dry matter of wheat in the same timeframe.

Sugar is present in pasture but in varying levels depending on the forage type and even the time of the day or season. Sugar levels rise in grass over the course of a day, due to increased photosynthetic activity of the plant during daylight hours. Similarly, grass tends to have a higher sugar content in spring compared to winter due to increased daylight hours and warmer weather increasing rates of photosynthesis. In a cold, wet spring or extended overcast periods, supplementing with sugar at that time will complement the low sugar grass

20 | THE FARMLANDER

and may improve milk production and milk protein percentage, which could also have repercussions on fertility. Conserved feeds such as silage tend to have low sugar content, as the sugar that was in the forage at the time of harvesting has been used up by microorganisms during the ensiling process. Feeds such as molasses are high in sugar and can be useful to add to a ruminant’s diet if sugar is lacking, however they must be used with caution, as too much sugar entering the rumen at once can cause a decrease in rumen pH due to the rapidly fermenting nature of the sugar and acidosis can be a risk. Slug feeding of high sugar feeds is therefore not recommended and it is better to spread out supplementation of sugars over the course of a day to provide rumen microorganisms with a more levelled out supply of readily fermentable material. This is where starch can become important, as starchy feeds such as grain are naturally slower degrading feeds, so will provide fermentable energy to microorganisms in a more slow release way compared to sugar. Animals like sugar and they tend to select feeds higher in sugar if given the chance, due to the inherent drive to consume feeds that are higher in energy. By adding molasses to feeds, we can make them more appealing to animals. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Stacey Cosnett, Assistant Nutritionist, Farmlands Nutrition.

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NUTRITION

My lifestyle block – Cheryl Ford and Geoff Chapman A productive 8 hectare block in Canterbury is allowing a couple of dairy cow enthusiasts to keep doing what they enjoy and generate some income. New Zealand Ayrshire show judge Cheryl Ford and her partner Geoff Chapman currently milk eight Ayrshire cows, including four first-time calvers but they still averaged 33 litres per cow at their peak in November last year. The Leeston herd is fully milk recorded with LIC – heifers are shown and sold at stud sales to farmers who value the breed’s milk production, temperament and ability to hold condition through the winter. Based on the milk recording, last season five cows averaged 7,025 litres each over 278 day lactations at 4.97 percent butterfat and 3.45 percent protein. This year their milk has helped raise 80 Friesian calves and 10 crossbred beefies. The cows are milked in the farm’s original 4-aside milking shed and calves are reared in what was

| Milking by machine is a gentle process that allows Cheryl time to spend with her cows.

town-supply herd. Calves are kept in individual pens for the first 2-3 weeks, initially fed milk through teats but later directly from buckets, which makes it very easy to spot if a calf is not thriving and assures individual attention. Most are sold at 100kg but 10 are taken through to killing weights within 18 months.

a wintering barn with cow stalls,

The farm grows a lot of grass but is

which was built before the farm

not irrigated, Cheryl and Geoff will

was subdivided and carried a larger

have silage made when there is a surplus and buy silage in to see them through the summer and winter. Cheryl feeds a high quality compound feed produced by Reliance Feeds but was also encouraged by Farmlands to use straights – especially soy hulls and soya bean meal. Soy hulls are very low in protein but high in digestible fibre and are useful to supplement high protein spring grass, whereas soya bean meal comes into its own when pasture

| Cheryl is convinced that there is no money in just maintaining animals and prefers to feed for growth.

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protein levels fall in the summer.

Having two very different feeds available allows Cheryl to respond to changing pasture quality and individual cow performance very quickly. Both soya bean meal and soy hulls contain low levels of starch, so levels can be adjusted rapidly when required without fear of acidosis. Pre-calving pellets have helped the cows through calving and helped them to go straight onto the milking ration. Cheryl and Geoff have made calf rearing work around their building and paddocks and are not afraid to do things differently to the norm. The Ayrshires continue to milk well into the autumn, which allows autumn born calves to be reared in addition to the main spring group. Calves are given hard feed through the winter – last winter they had soy hulls every day – to keep them growing on, so that beefies can be finished before their second winter and replacements are well grown.

THE FARMLANDER | 21

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NUTRITION

Increasing muscle and topline in performance horses Topline is a common term among most performance horse owners and riders – it refers to the degree of muscle definition along the horse’s neck, back and hind end. Depending on the discipline, the amount of topline holds varying degrees of importance, however achieving topline in all competing horses is one of the main goals. Nutrition and work are the two most important contributing factors to building topline and the numerous aspects of feeding and exercise management need to be considered carefully in order to achieve improvements in muscle definition in this area. Often poor muscle definition can simply mean the horse is lacking in overall condition and requires more calories to gain weight. Increasing forage through additional hay or fibre products can help and lucerne hays or chaff products generally contain higher energy levels than grass or meadow forage types. Increasing hard feed and grain, or selecting a higher energy feed type can also assist in providing the additional calories required for weight gain. Fat in the form of oil or stabilised rice bran such as NRM Equi-Jewel plays an important role in conditioning and are great options for horses that have low tolerances to grains and can become hyperactive or experience muscle problems when excess grain is consumed. Arguably the most important nutrient for muscle development is protein. Amino acids, which make up proteins, are the basic building blocks of muscle. Horses must consume at least nine

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essential amino acids in their diets and the remainder they can make on their own. Deficiencies in protein and certain amino acids can lead to a dull coat, brittle hooves and a rapid decline in muscle definition. The National Research Council recommends that minimum protein requirements for an average 500kg horse in moderate work are 768g per day, which can generally be met easily through feeding a diet of high quality forage and the correct amount of a balanced feed formulated for the work the horse is doing. Additional protein can be included in the diet through feeding a more concentrated feed if extra calories are needed as well, or topping up levels with a high-protein supplement like a balancer pellet, which is fed in small amounts and adds very little calories to the diet.

High fat supplements such as NRM Equi-Jewel are often more successful in improving condition and topline, especially when combined with work. For further assistance and advice on designing a diet for your individual horse to improve muscle and condition, consult a reputable Equine Nutrition Advisor. Article supplied by Luisa Wood, Equine Nutrition Technical Advisor, Farmlands Nutrition.

While it is essential to meet protein requirements on a daily basis, it is important to consider that excess protein will not be utilised in the production of more muscle. Any protein not utilised is excreted through urine and providing protein in excess of requirements for an extended time period can increase water consumption and cause a smell of ammonia in the horse’s urine as the protein is excreted. When attempting to build topline, it is important to be cautious of the various nutritional supplements making claims regarding muscle building properties. Many will contain high levels of protein, which may not be necessary if the horse’s current diet contains sufficient amounts.

THE FARMLANDER | 23

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NUTRITION

Balanced nutrient intakes support animal health and welfare Although there are some differences in the ingredients humans and animals consume, ensuring nutrient intake is balanced is just as important for animals as it is for humans. And in the same way that the nutrient requirements of an adult woman differ from those of a teenage boy or an energetic toddler, the nutrient requirements of poultry vary depending on their age, breed, sex and stage of their productive cycle. Like children, who should be given treats in moderation, it is particularly important that young growing poultry consume a balanced diet that provides sufficient protein, energy, vitamins and minerals to support rapid early growth. A specially designed Chick Starter Crumble is ideal for this purpose. In the same way a pregnant woman requires a balanced diet with good quality protein to support the growth of her baby, a laying hen requires good quality protein to support egg production. When properly balanced, vegetable protein sources such as soybean and canola meal provide an excellent source of high quality protein, which can be used for egg production. One of the key differences between laying hens, pregnant women and most other poultry is their high requirement for calcium, which is used in the production of egg shells. Grains, oilseed meals and other plant material is generally too low in calcium to meet the demands of a

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laying hen and so a source of calcium must be included in the feed she is offered. To maintain optimum bone health and shell quality, sufficient phosphorus and trace minerals must also be included in the diet. Designed to provide the energy, protein and minerals required by a laying hen, FarmGate Chook Tucker also provides a rich blend of steam flaked grains and kibbled maize, meaning that you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to worry about supplementing your hens with whole grains or other treats. Added molasses helps to limit dustiness and can help to improve feed intake. Providing ad lib access to feed will help to ensure that a laying hen can

free access to feed without the risk of the feed getting wet or eaten by wild birds. Some feeders are less well suited to textured feeds, so check with the Farmlands team if you are unsure about the suitability of your feeder. Always remember to make sure that your hens have access to clean, fresh water. When fed a balanced diet, well cared for laying hens will reward you with plenty of fresh eggs, a tasty and great source of protein for you and your family. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by FarmGate.

consume enough of the feed to meet her requirements and there are now many different feeders available on the market that allow you to offer your hens

THE FARMLANDER | 25

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Weed control options to increase productivity of autumn sown pasture In today’s farming environment, the short timeframe between pasture spray-out and drilling gives weeds the maximum opportunity to germinate and compete in new pasture. If this weed burden is not managed early, the time to first grazing can be delayed, compromising quality and quantity, along with the potential longevity of pasture. New pasture often presents a wide spectrum of weeds, so more than one herbicide may offer the best results. With a proven track record over many years, Dow AgroSciences’ herbicides play an important role in successful new pasture establishment. Preside™ herbicide controls many of the common weeds encountered in newly sown young pasture, including spurrey, shepherd’s purse, black nightshade, amaranthus, fathen, buttercup, sorrel, oxeye daisy, stinking mayweed and field chickweed (a smothering weed that can quickly choke clovers and grasses in autumn). If thistles are present, Select herbicide can be added to Preside to broaden the spectrum of weeds controlled. Preside and Select herbicides are equally safe to both grass and clovers, so there is no check to rapid pasture establishment, even when they are used in combination. Uptake™ crop oil must always be added to Preside applications, even when tank-mixing with Select. ™

Timing with both of the above herbicides is critical to achieve maximum results. Monitor newly sown

26 | THE FARMLANDER

paddocks regularly. Application should be considered as soon as clovers are at the two true leaf stage and there is 50 percent ground cover (from foliage of pasture plants and weeds together). By this time seedling weeds will be readily identifiable, enabling you to choose the best herbicide or herbicide combination to use. As young seedlings, weeds will be at the ideal stage for maximum control and will be controlled before they compete with the new pasture. Preside is available in two pack options – the 256g pack of Preside contains 16 convenient water soluble sachets that are easy to mix and measure into the spray tank. A 256g pack will treat between 4 and 8.5 hectares, depending on rates required. A larger 500g pack is also available for contractors and larger users, which is loose packed and comes with a convenient measuring cylinder. Select is available in convenient 20L packs, which will treat 5 hectares.

Don’t leave your weed control measures to chance – when you weigh up the total cost of pasture renewal, early effective weed control is cheap and effective insurance. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Dow AgroSciences. Preside, Select and Uptake are trademarks of Dow AgroSciences. Always refer to the product label before use.

™

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FORAGE AND ARABLE

Insect pest control in forage brassicas Seed treatment insecticides can

Ampligo® insecticide is a good option

provide some early protection from

where mixed pest populations are

insect pest damage and assist with

present. Ampligo is approved for the

forage brassica establishment.

control of nysius, leaf miner, cutworm,

However, foliar insecticides may be

soybean looper, aphids and the

required as soon as 2 to 3 weeks after sowing in some seasons if pest pressure is high.

caterpillars of diamondback moth and white butterfly. It has a low use rate of just 100ml/ha and a relatively short 14

Pest pressure can vary significantly

day withholding period when used in

from year to year, either because of

forage brassicas.

cultural and environmental factors in the preceding season, or weather patterns in the current season. Insect damage can reduce forage brassica yields by over 3,000kg/ha of dry matter, costing growers over $500 per hectare in lost feed. Nysius, leaf miner, cutworm and springtails are usually more of a problem in the spring, causing damage to young seedlings and impacting crop establishment. The caterpillars of diamondback moth, white butterfly and

Ampligo controls insects via contact and ingestion activity, as well as having ovi-larvicidal, anti-feeding and repellent activity, which helps to prevent crop damage. Key recommendations: • Plant seed treated with an

• Monitor crops daily if seed is not treated, otherwise monitor weekly. • Ampligo should be applied when insects or damage first appear, with a maximum of three applications per season. • Apply in sufficient water to achieve thorough coverage and always add a non-ionic wetting agent. • If both aphids and caterpillars are present, use Ampligo with the addition of Pirimor® if aphid pressure is high and the crop is tall or dense. • Drought stressed crops are more susceptible to insect pest damage and should be monitored at least weekly.

pests both before and after

For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store.

crop emergence.

Article supplied by Syngenta.

insecticide (such as Superstrike®). • Assess the incidence of insect

aphids tend to occur later in the season as temperatures begin to rise. Agronomic practices that maintain good plant health can help compensate for minor crop damage caused by chewing insects. The decision to use insecticides will depend on pest pressure, yield potential and economics. It’s always easier to control insect pest early, when caterpillars are small and before aphid populations begin to explode, so regular crop monitoring is important. | Aphid populations can explode if sprayed too late.

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THE FARMLANDER | 27

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FORAGE AND ARABLE

Proven, productive and persistent ryegrass Fit for purpose and value are all important parameters for pastures in today’s modern farming environment. Together, they are key considerations when it comes to growing grass and feeding animals. In today’s farming system we expect a lot from our pastures. With increased stocking rates, improved genetic merit in the national dairy herd and an increasing reliance on home grown feed, it’s no surprise that our pastures need to be robust feeding platforms. The ryegrass/white clover relationship needs to be carefully integrated and advice from your local Farmlands Technical Field Officer about endophyte and genetic choice is paramount. Logan Quinn, who contract milks 215 cows on a spring calving platform not far from Paeroa on the Hauraki Plains, has been fast to adopt new technology and a large part of his 78 hectare platform is now made up of ONE50 perennial ryegrass. Over the years Logan has had very good success using ryegrasses with the AR37 endophyte, previously re-grassing with

Commando AR37 and over the last four seasons switching to ONE50 AR37 along with Mainstay and Tribute white clovers.

been in 19 trials with AR1 endophyte

Logan has been impressed by ONE AR37, which was recommended by his Farmlands Technical Field Officer Greg Willetts, as it stays green, persists and holds on well in a drought.

The dry matter production information

“The environment here is tough and we tend to struggle with pasture persistence. ONE50 has performed better than anything else I have tried,” Logan says. “I like that it bounces back quickly following grazing and the cows consistently milk well on it.”

and ONE50 AR1 can be converted into

ONE50 with AR37 combines an outstanding late-heading cultivar with the best novel endophyte available for perennial ryegrass insect protection. For this reason, Greg recommends it to a large number of his customers. It’s not just Logan who is having success with ONE50 AR37 – it has been extensively trialled with multiple endophytes throughout New Zealand as part of the National Forage Variety Trials (NFVT). Since its first evaluation in the NFVT, it has

and 22 trials with AR37 endophyte, with each trial run for 3 years. generated through the NFVT system contributes to the Dairy NZ Forage Value Index (FVI) and through this, the yield differences between ONE50 AR37 economic values. ONE50 AR37 has a five star rating compared to the same cultivar with AR1, which has a three star rating. This difference in star rating reflects a predicted economic difference. That financial advantage between ONE50 with AR1 or AR37 could be as much as $402.00/hectare (Upper North Island). ONE50 is a diploid cultivar made up of a cross of elite genetics including north-west Spanish material and plants screened in Northland and has very good persistence and tolerance to dry and hot summers. With a late heading date (+20 days), ONE50 AR37 is ideal for farm systems where high production and improved late spring feed quality are important, providing excellent spring production and summer leafiness. It also has a high tolerance to rust, which is important in regions prone to ryegrass rust. ONE50 AR37 is the late-heading ryegrass and endophyte of choice for many farmers. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Agricom.

| Farmlands Technical Field Officer Greg Willetts and farmer Logan Quinn.

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THE FARMLANDER | 29

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Being savvy on the milking platform Andrew and Rebecca Parker of Atiamuri Farm near Rotorua have embarked on a transformational journey over the last few years. Milking 960 cows through a rotary shed, they know the importance of home grown feed and do all they can to maximise it. Since the drought of 2008, Andrew and Rebecca have done a lot of pasture renewal and have used a number of different species and ryegrass options. When they were planting perennial ryegrass alone on lighter soils, the plants just struggled in the dry and never produced enough dry matter when they needed the feed. Over the last 5 years, the Parkers have taken their business from strength to strength by significantly reducing the amount of brought-in feed and having a strong emphasis on growing as much home grown feed as possible, along with increasing the total tonnage of dry matter grown per hectare. Following advice from their Farmlands Technical Field Officer Bruce Hemingway, they decided to use Savvy cocksfoot in their pasture mixes. Savvy cocksfoot is a new generation cocksfoot bred for softer leaves, higher palatability and improved disease tolerance. As a species it is very drought tolerant and responsive to nitrogen, consistently out-yielding perennial ryegrass in many northern environments. “For the last three seasons we have been mixing Savvy cocksfoot with ONE50 AR37 + white clovers. I’ve

30 | THE FARMLANDER

Andrew and Rebecca Parker with Bailey and Mia (front) along with Farmlands Technical Field Officer Bruce Hemingway (back centre).

been really impressed with the grass combination – the Savvy goes well in dry and it’s really responsive to nitrogen,” Andrew says. Recent droughts and more frequent dry summers have made many farmers question whether ryegrass is the best grass species for their region. Whether it is dairy farms in the Waikato, sheep farms in the King Country or beef finishers in Northland, recent seasons have raised issues about the persistence and production of

“

ryegrass alone.

The end result is that we import less feed and grow more at home.

easy,” Andrew says. “The end result is that we import less feed and grow more at home.” There are several ways of incorporating Savvy into a farm system. As a sole species mixed with legumes, Savvy will provide valuable dry matter – this use is particularly suited to dryland dairy or intensive beef finishing. In pasture mixes Savvy will improve the robustness and persistence of the mix, particularly in dry conditions – and under irrigation Savvy has outstanding yield potential. The use of Savvy could reduce pasture renewal costs (less area) if it is used in pasture mixes. This is because the plants persist very well and may extend the life of an otherwise pure ryegrass/ white clover pasture.

system to benefit from using Savvy,

For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store.

which has made adding it really

Article supplied by Agricom.

“We haven’t had to change our farm

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FORAGE AND ARABLE

Effective removal of persistent weeds in the pasture renewal cycle Annual ryegrass in the pasture renewal cycle creates a great opportunity for farmers to clean up dirty paddocks where deep rooted perennial weeds have become seemingly impossible to control. A proven strategy for astute farmers is to build a cropping programme around pasture renewal. The decision to renew a pasture is triggered when pasture production drops significantly, usually as a result of heavy infestations of deep rooted perennial weeds that have been unsuccessfully controlled by “clover friendly” herbicides. The economic benefit of spraying out underperforming pastures and replacing them with new, high performing varieties is usually far greater than the decision to persist with an old, underperforming pasture. The cropping phase of a pasture renewal programme creates a rare opportunity to achieve long-term control of hard to kill weeds such as Californian thistle, dock and in more recent years, oxeye daisy – which are often not well controlled by “clover safe” pasture herbicides, so it’s a great opportunity to get on top of them. However, until recently there have been limited options to gain reliable control of these deep rooted perennial weeds

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that most “clover friendly” herbicides leave behind.

T-Max is proven to

While glyphosate is very effective against grasses, broadleaf weeds are not so well controlled by glyphosate alone. Various broadleaf herbicides and adjuvants are often added to glyphosate to improve broadleaf weed control but deep rooted perennial broadleaf weeds such as docks, Californian thistle and oxeye daisy often re-grow because their root systems are not totally killed. As a consequence while control might look good 2 or 3 weeks after a spray application, a short time later these weeds re-emerge having re-grown from live root remnants. If these deep rooted perennial broadleaf weeds are not well controlled in the cropping phase of the pasture renewal cycle they quickly become an issue and very little is gained.

system and prevent

Due to its ability to readily move through the sap stream and completely kill the root system, aminopyralid, a unique active ingredient in T-Max, has proven to be highly effective in controlling deep rooted perennial broadleaf weeds. A new registration for T-Max allows tank mixing with glyphosate at sprayout, prior to sowing annual ryegrass.

chips in the ground to regenerate when

destroy the entire root re-growth and is therefore a useful tool in the pasture renewal cycle. If sowing a straight annual ryegrass this autumn, T-Max herbicide mixed with glyphosate at spray-out is the most effective way to break the perennial broadleaf weed cycle and get high level control of these hard to kill weeds prior to sowing. While ryegrass can be sown straight after T-Max in a spray-out application, it is recommended to wait at least 6 months before re-establishing clover. Tank mixing T-Max with glyphosate prior to sowing annual grass in autumn provides a perfect buffer to ensure good clover establishment the following season. Effective control of deep rooted perennial weeds at spray-out means no residual live root you return to permanent pasture the following season. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Dow AgroSciences.

THE FARMLANDER | 31

for you FORAGE ANDWorks ARABLE

32 | THE FARMLANDER

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FORAGE AND ARABLE

Two ways to improve your autumn spray-out The stage is set for autumn pasture sowing but many farmers still don’t get the best results and you might be one of them. The good news? It’s easy to fix this situation by adopting some agronomically sound principles. That’s the advice from veteran pastoral farming specialist Graeme Dale, who says preventing two mistakes commonly made on-farm at this time of year can quickly pay off. “The first thing is to check if you need a companion herbicide with your glyphosate for spraying out prior to sowing. The second is to use the right rates of glyphosate. If you tick those boxes, you will have avoided two very typical pitfalls in autumn sowing.” Graeme, the Waikato, King Country and Taranaki Territory Manager for Nufarm, says tank mixing companion herbicides like Nail® EC with WeedMaster® TS540 provides control of more weeds before sowing new pasture than if they use glyphosate alone. “There are some weeds that the glyphosate molecule does not control, which you definitely do not want in your new grass. They’re not always present but if you miss them now, you miss your last chance to get rid of them.” This is more important where farmers don’t cultivate before sowing. “Cultivation will hide a multitude of sins!

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In no-till situations there isn’t a set of discs or a plough to hide behind. You’re totally reliant on the spray programme to get rid of all the weeds. Whatever is green in that paddock after sprayout is a weed and it will compete with whatever you plant, so the spray-out has to be 100 percent effective.” Graeme says ex-summer crop paddocks need special attention. Sometimes when these are established in spring, there has been a less than ideal spray-out because of plant back and soil residue considerations. “These paddocks are usually full of weeds in the first place, which is why they were cropped and they may have come through summer with many of those weeds still present, because a lot of them weren’t actively growing when they were sprayed out in the spring.

enough, particularly creeping mallow, seedling storksbill and nettles. Sero™ WG is also useful. In all cases, using the right rate of WeedMaster TS540 is critical, Graeme says. “If the label rate is 3-4L/ha, in a no-till situation always use the maximum rate. Pulse Penetrant is also a must.” For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Nufarm. WeedMaster and Nail are registered trademarks of Nufarm Ltd. Pulse is a registered trademark of Nufarm Technologies Ltd. Sero is a trademark of Nufarm Ltd.

“In autumn, however, you can use a number of companion herbicide options that you can’t use in spring and you can deal with those weeds in a big way.” Graeme says farmers should make no assumptions about paddocks that are going into autumn planted perennial pasture until they’ve checked to identify different weed species. Then it’s a case of selecting the right companion herbicide, if required. Nail EC, for example, provides control of some broadleaf weed species for which glyphosate alone is not always

THE FARMLANDER | 33

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Super clover offers multiple benefits to farmers A one of a kind white clover offering multiple benefits to farmers is spreading across New Zealand. White clover plays an essential role in New Zealand agriculture, producing plant-available nitrogen and driving the competitive advantage for a range of the country’s farming systems. Sarah Bennett, Product Development Agronomist for Aber, says that it is the most widely used pasture legume in New Zealand. The unique super clover, called

AberLasting also offers excellent

AberLasting, is a successful hybrid of

cold tolerance, faster recovery from

white and Caucasian clover and was

grazing, nitrogen fixation comparable

developed by the Institute of Biological,

with white clover and tolerance to

Environmental and Rural Sciences at

clover root weevil.

Aberystwyth University in Wales.

“AberLasting really is a unique, one

“Aber is bringing a whole new twist

of a kind product, which every farmer

to the white clover game, with

in New Zealand should have in their

AberLasting providing farmers with

paddocks,” Sarah says.

the benefits of both white clover and

Other products in the Aber clover

Caucasian clover.”

range that complement AberLasting

While AberLasting has the above

include AberDance and AberNormous.

ground appearance of a small to

AberDance is a medium leaf white

medium leaf white clover, it has a much

clover that provides flexibility across

more developed rooting capability than

farming systems and delivers versatility

traditional white clover.

for a variety of grazing managements.

The combination of white clover

AberNormous is a large leaf white

growth attributes with the Caucasian

clover which, with its upright nature

clover root system gives AberLasting

and increased leaf area, provides more

increased drought tolerance, allowing

clover per bite for cattle and increased

the plant to maintain leaf water content

clover yield for silage production.

for much longer. Other benefits include

Aber clovers are bred in a programme

greater persistence, thanks to the

that matches real agricultural systems

root system. While Caucasian clover

and are tested under those conditions.

typically takes 3 years to become

They have been well-established with

fully established, AberLasting inherits

the Aber High Sugar Grass varieties,

the fast establishment of its white

increasing the clovers’ tolerance to

For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store.

clover parentage.

more densely tillered grasses.

Article supplied by Aber.

34 | THE FARMLANDER

Farmlands Agronomist, Dave Schrader, has been impressed with the AberLasting clover. The attributes of clover root weevil tolerance, dry season tolerance and extended plant life appear to be backed up in the field. “Since recommending that Farmlands shareholders include at least some AberLasting with the white clover component of their pasture mix, we have seen this hybrid clover establish and maintain populations under clover root weevil pressure and through the last two summers, which have been very dry in the South Canterbury region,” Dave says. “The plants look strong and capable of surviving longer than the traditional 1.5 to 2.5 years that a white clover plant normally achieves. I have had no negative feedback regarding AberLasting through the last few years during the highest levels of clover root weevil we will experience.”

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Remove tough broadleaf weeds before you sow this autumn Good weed control before you sow your autumn pasture is essential to maximise yield and persistency. Unfortunately many opportunities are missed when spraying out old paddocks, as the common thought is “glyphosate will control all the weeds in that paddock”. This is not always true – and the last thing you want to see coming through in your new grass is unwanted weeds. It is important to take the opportunity to remove these difficult weeds before sowing new pasture, as the extra investment is negligible compared to the cost of controlling difficult weeds post-emergence and the subsequent loss of production. So this autumn before establishing new pastures, ensure you add DuPont Granstar® 75DF or Harmony® 50SG to your glyphosate (and penetrant) to

improve the control of unwanted weeds such as old man docks, buttercup, yarrow, thistles, clover and many other broadleaf weeds. To improve broadleaf weed control, it is important to note the following: • Let the paddock freshen up after grazing and ensure there is good leaf area and actively growing plants to maximise uptake. • Leave the paddock for 3 (Granstar) to 7 (Harmony) days after spraying before grazing or cultivation. • Ensure you leave a plant back period of 14 days between spraying out and sowing your new pasture.

For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by DuPont.

Granstar® + glyphosate + penetrant

glyphosate + penetrant Untreated area, where irrigator was parked.

| The above photo is a farmer assessment comparing Granstar and glyphosate (right) versus glyphosate only (left), 26 days after spray-out. The weeds still present in the glyphosate only treatment were fathen, thistles, shepherd’s purse and clover.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER | 35

for you FORAGE ANDWorks ARABLE

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36 | THE FARMLANDER

BUNZ16531

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Lose less heat, gain more feed energy Maize silage contains a high concentration of starch and sugars. This makes it more prone to heating when the stack or bunker is opened at feed-out time. When silage heats it loses valuable nutrients, which could have been used by the cow to produce milk. A paper presented at the New Zealand Grasslands Association conference1, compared the aerobic stability of eight different maize silages inoculated with three commercially available silage inoculants.

more meat per tonne of silage fed and higher returns from your silage. This season, Pioneer brand 1132 gives more than $8.00 return for every dollar invested2. There are not too many farm inputs that deliver that level of financial return. Farmlands Technical Field Officer, Peter Smart, recognises the time and effort his farmers needed to produce a high yielding maize crop. He

Pioneer brand 11C33 inoculated silage stayed cooler 55.5 hours longer than the untreated control. There was no significant difference between silage treated with other products and the untreated control.

doesn’t want this undone by

When you apply Pioneer brand inoculant, millions of the right bacteria are distributed through the crop. They control the fermentation, which results in decreased dry matter and energy losses in the silage stack, reduced heating at feed-out time, maintaining valuable feed energy, more milk or

When considering inoculants, it’s

his clients to use inoculants but also highlights the importance of the correct inoculant for their feeding programme to avoid poor quality silage. important to use an inoculant that has been tested and proven to be effective. Pioneer brand inoculants offer New Zealand farmers a complete package of key benefits including guaranteed bacterial levels on the label of every

Time before maize silage heats up1

Article supplied by Pioneer brand products. Kleinmans et al, 2011. Using silage inoculants to improve the quality of pasture and maize silage in New Zealand. Proceedings of the New Zealand Grassland Association 73: 75-80.

Returns calculated using dry matter recovery data from Pioneer trials, Washington State University dairy trial milk production results and a milksolids pay-out of $6.00 per kgMS.

Milk return per tonne of maize ensiled2 $480

94.8

80 70 60 50 40

39.3

38.7

38.3

$476

$470

$ New Zealand dollars

Time before silage heats (hours)

For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store.

bottle, trials where the product has been

100

tested according to scientific protocols and extensive local technical back-up.

completing the process, so advises

$460 $450 $440 $430

$445 $435

$420

10 0

$410

Untreated

Inoculant A

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

Inoculant B

Pioneer brand 11C33

Control

1174

1132

THE FARMLANDER | 37

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Manage velvetleaf before it becomes a serious problem Farmers are reminded to be vigilant and deal to velvetleaf this summer before it takes a hold. Velvetleaf is an aggressive weed that, within a few years, can completely overrun an area if left uncontrolled. The pest weed entered New Zealand in contaminated fodder beet seed in 2015 and since plants were found in early 2016, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), regional councils and primary sector industry partners, including Farmlands, have been working to help farmers control it. Velvetleaf is a serious cropping weed, potentially affecting many arable crops by competing for nutrients, space and water. MPI’s Response Incident Controller David Yard says the concerning thing about the weed is its potential for spread. “What can be a small problem of a few plants in the first season quickly becomes a much bigger problem in subsequent seasons.

is contained inside the bag), pull out and safely dispose of by deep burial.” David says any finds, even if they’ve been reported before, should be reported to MPI’s freephone 0800 809 966. Through this line, help and advice will be given for managing the situation.

and contain spread is available

are known to have planted potentially

seeding, tie a plastic bag over flowers/

MPI also encourages farmers and rural contractors to clean equipment before it’s moved between properties to contain spread of the weed. The weed can be spread in soil on equipment and also by stock movements.

seedheads, bend in half (so seed

Full information to help identify plants

your local Farmlands store.

“We encourage farmers, especially those who have planted fodder beet, to search their property for velvetleaf. “If you find plants, remove them and safely destroy them by deep burial, for example in the farm offal pit,” David says. He says ideally, pull out plants before they flower and especially before they set seed. “Where plants are flowering or

38 | THE FARMLANDER

at www.mpi.govt.nz/alerts The Ministry has funded regional councils to help farmers develop farm management plans for those properties where velvetleaf has been found and also for those high-risk properties that contaminated fodder beet seed. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Don’t take chances with autumn pasture establishment Farmlands Senior Technical Field Officer, Bruce Hemingway, has a simple philosophy about seed treatment – “I wouldn’t sell any seed without it”. Based in South Waikato and looking after clients from Tirau down to Taupo, the seasoned Technical Field Officer says no matter what the situation, he never sells bare pasture seed. “I might get one guy a year who says do I really need it? But when you explain it to them, there’s no argument. They don’t want to take a risk they can avoid and enough of them have been stung by insects or other problems in the past to know it can happen.” Bruce says that the cost of seed treatment is minor in the overall scheme of things. “For a start, you’ve got to look at the price of a kg of grass seed over the lifetime of the pasture. It’s pretty cheap for what you get. Seed treatment is just a small percentage of that price. And it costs just the same in paddock

preparation and inputs to sow treated vs untreated seed, so you might as well do it properly.” Bruce says there’s another good reason to use seed treatment – “the more you can do to help the plant, the better for pasture persistence and that includes from underground to emergence to above ground.” Agricote Grass seed treatment includes fungicide and insecticide to protect grass seedlings during the critical phase of early establishment. It is particularly critical in four situations – where pasture renewal is being undertaken via grass to grass sowing, when new pasture seed is being undersown into a run-out pasture, where there is a known history of insect pressure or fungal disease and where conditions can become dry postsowing, because this means seedlings are slow to grow and thus are small and susceptible to attack for a long period. On farms where black beetle and

Argentine stem weevil are known to be a problem, Agricote Grass is an essential precaution. Even if ryegrass seed contains endophyte, such as NEA2, this does not offer full protection until spring, when the grass plants are more mature.

“

Grass seedlings containing endophyte can still be attacked and killed by pests at establishment. Grass seedlings containing endophyte can still be attacked and killed by pests at establishment and Agriseeds, the company behind Agricote, says its field staff sees instances of this every season when seed treatment is not used. Agricote Clover is also recommended for autumn sown pastures. This contains insecticide and fungicide to help protect seedling clover plants, as well as essential nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, manganese, zinc and molybdenum) and lime. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Agriseeds.

| Severe adult Argentine stem weevil damage in a newly sown novel endophyte perennial ryegrass pasture – good clover establishment but nearly all ryegrass has been killed.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER | 39

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

Shearing shed safety With safety currently at the forefront of all farm activity, there is no better time than now to assess the safety in your shearing shed. Due to the busy nature of activity undertaken in and around shearing sheds, the opportunity for an accident to happen is high.

the machine in case of dangerous handpiece lock-ups. In the past when there has been a lock-up, the hand piece can spin around at approximately 3,500rpm – making it an incredibly dangerous and life threatening weapon – leading to the possibility of serious injuries. Not only is the Evo Shearing Plant safe but is also very light, at

You can minimise the risk of accidents in your shearing shed by reviewing the current safety options your shearing machinery offers: • Does my shearing plant offer safety cut out in case of lock-up? • Is my shearing plant isolated from electric shock?

7.8kg (machine only) and also has the added advantage of the downtube

With the Evo Shearing Plant and TPW Xpress Woolpress on the market, there are now few excuses for farmers not to be able to better protect themselves and their staff. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Heiniger.

being isolated from all electrified components, reducing any risk of electric shock. The TPW Xpress Woolpress is widely used by farmers, shearing contractors and many woolstores where a safe, fast, efficient woolpress is

• Does my woolpress have a safety guard?

demanded. Fully fitted with an

• Is my woolpress operator safe?

screen and mechanical safety

approved mechanical safety device means operator safety is to the highest standard. The

Injuries that are preventable cost

TPW Xpress Woolpress, as

farmers, contractors and the wool and

the market leader, has long

shearing industries money. The safety

been renowned for its speed,

features and advantages of Heiniger’s

toughness and durability,

shearing machinery technology are

as well as the inexpensive

invaluable. The extra expense is a small

servicing requirement.

price to pay for offering superior quality

Proven as the fastest and

and safety in your workplace. Heiniger

most popular press on the

offers innovative, safer solutions for

market, the TPW Xpress has

your shearing shed.

a cycle time of 12-16 seconds

The Heiniger Evo Shearing Plant

in high yielding wools when

has fast become the number one

pressing bales up to 200kg.

shearing plant demanded by shearers,

Added features include low

contractors and farmers in the industry.

filling height avoiding stress

It was the first shearing plant in the

and strain on the operator’s

world to be manufactured with an

back, together with a fully

electronic safety switch stopping

automatic bale ejection system.

40 | THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

Getting more prime lambs out the gate faster With the forecast returns for lamb being lower than last year and the schedule dropping rapidly, it is more important than ever to ensure you get as many of your prime lambs out of the gate as fast as possible and at good weights. How do you achieve this? Survival: In order for lambs to be sold, they have to survive to slaughter weight. Clostridial disease is a common killer of lambs, especially those growing fast. For most lambs, the antibody protection they received from the ewe

Nutrition:

to drench. This can be achieved by

has declined by weaning, leaving them

There is nothing more important than good quality lamb feed. Ensure lambs are on the best quality feed available and are leaving good residues.

either running undrenched, good

Pasture and stock management:

drench can also be delayed by using

unprotected if they aren’t vaccinated. All lambs should receive their first Lifeguard® 5 in 1 vaccination at either docking or pre-weaning, followed by a second vaccination 4-6 weeks later. Worm control: Use a fully effective drench. Trial work has demonstrated that using a drench that is not fully effective can cost you 1014 percent of your carcass value.[1,2] A drench that keeps killing parasite larvae, such as Cydectin® Oral Drench for Sheep, can potentially increase growth rates in lambs by 60 percent compared to short acting drenches.[3] Many longer acting drenches have longer withholdings, making them unsuitable for finishing lambs, Cydectin Oral Drench only has a 10

Stock integration is an essential component of pasture and parasite management. Use older cattle to decrease the worm burdens that lambs must deal with while controlling pasture length and quality. Genetics: Maximise the lamb’s potential for growth and meat through the selection of improved genetics and hybrid vigour. Select maternal rams with high dual purpose survival and growth breeding indexes. Use as many terminal sire rams as possible.

day meat withholding. Using the right

Drench resistance:

drench is important to maximise lamb

Slow down the development of drench resistance by creating a refuge of parasites that have not been exposed

growth rates and minimise dags and pasture contamination.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

conditioned ewes behind the lambs or undrenched cull ewes with the lambs. Drench resistance to your main lamb a new active drench such as Zolvix® Plus or Startect® as part of your drench programme. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Zoetis. Sutherland, I. A., J. Bailey, and R. J. Shaw. The production costs of anthelmintic resistance in sheep managed within a monthly preventive drench program. Vet Parasitol, 2010. 171(3-4), p. 300-304.

Miller, C. M. et al. The production cost of anthelmintic resistance in lambs. Vet Parasitol, 2012. 186(3-4), p. 376-381.

Murphy, A. W., R. McDonald, and M. Ramsey. A comparison of production responses in lambs drenched with moxidectin or ivermectin. New Zealand Journal of Agricultural Research, 1994. p. 221-224.

Zoetis New Zealand Ltd. Cydectin, Lifeguard and Startect are registered trademarks of Zoetis Inc. or its subsidiaries.

THE FARMLANDER | 41

HORTICULTURE

Maximising returns on G3 gold kiwifruit As G3 is still a relatively new variety, there are ongoing learnings on manipulating dry matter. The structure of Zespri payments has altered crop management. Up to 70 percent of tray returns are now attributed to taste and dry matter. As crops near harvest, it may be useful to consider how management practices might have influenced crops and what post-harvest practices should be considered. High water content and excessive nitrate levels are the enemy of fruit dry matter. The challenge is to find the balance between crop loading (tray production), canopy vigour and nutrition to maximise returns. Growers should aim for a medium to low vigour canopy with well selected medium sized cane. The canopy should be even and open, allowing good sunlight penetration. Weather and geographical location also play an important part. Fruit dry matter seems to be maximised in seasons with warm springs, moderate rainfall and summers with long sunshine hours. A large leaf area facilitates carbohydrate production. If excessive vegetative growth is minimised, and vines are cropped moderately, fruit taste and dry matter can be maximised. The following is a recently updated summary of management practices related to optimising dry matter in G3 crops: Heavily cropped vines should receive post-harvest foliars, as maintaining leaf quality will support next season’s buds.

42 | THE FARMLANDER

Post-harvest Psa protection sprays should take precedence, as it’s critical to keep vines clean at this stage. Soil tests and fertiliser recommendations from your Farmlands Horticulture Technical Advisor are important. Ground spread fertiliser applications should be completed by fruit set. Natural leaf drop is preferential for plant nutrient retention. The energy for new emerging shoots initially comes from reserves stored in winter buds (until leaves develop and commence photosynthesis). Winter canopy pruning should focus on selecting medium sized, evenly spaced cane. Wood selection is very important. An optimum bud count is 25-30 per square metre. Excessive cane tying should be avoided, otherwise later vine management and spring fruit thinning will be required. Ideal cane spacing is 40-45 cm. While growers have the ability to drive high yields, caution is required if yields surpass 15-18,000te/ha, as this may result in higher proportions of small fruit. Conversely, under-cropping may result in lower numbers of large fruit, a limiting of returns and excessive vegetative canopy growth. Hydrogen cyanimide should be applied approximately 20 to 30 days before natural bud break. This provides more uniform bud break, flowering and crop maturity. The timing of hydrogen cyanimide application is important and is influenced by winter chilling hours. Farmlands’ recent introduction of the

BreakNSure test kit will better enable determination of winter chill hours and therefore the optimum timing of application for any particular crop. It is important to monitor bud break and flower bud density. High densities should be thinned before and again after pollination. Pollination is obviously critical to fruit production, so adequate bee numbers and sufficient male flowers are essential. Insufficient male flowers makes artificial pollination essential. Generally, large fruit will have higher dry matter, small fruit will have lower dry matter. A reasonable target is 60 fruit per square metre. Most canopy management should be conducted early to minimise fruit marking and excessive vegetative growth. Significant fruit dry matter can be lost to unnecessary vegetative growth. Three to four rounds of early crush tipping will assist growth containment. It is essential that leaves are kept healthy – they are the carbon collectors. Once again, ensure that canopies aren’t too dense and ensure that light is getting through the canopy. Grass growth in the sward is a good visual indicator of light penetration. Vine growth can be regulated to achieve good dry matter production in several other ways. Nitrogen can be applied in spring, however excessive fertiliser applications should be avoided. Leaf testing should be employed to monitor nutrient status. Foliar products will be of particular assistance in cooler temperatures, or if smaller leaf sizes

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

HORTICULTURE

are prevalent. A Farmlands Horticulture Technical Advisor can advise on appropriate options. Good levels of leaf calcium are important through pollination, and monitoring through leaf sampling is essential. Healthy calcium levels assist in developing strong cell walls in the fruit. Girdling will generally increase dry matter by approximately 1 percent per girdle. Girdling should occur approximately 28 days after mid bloom, with a second girdling around mid-February (no later than end of February). Stressed or young cropping

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

vines should not be girdled. Girdled vines require monitoring to ensure that they are healing in the centre (from top and bottom) of the wound. If healing occurs on only one side, further girdling shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be undertaken. Good vine health is required to achieve high dry matter. Psa, diseases and stress will have a negative effect. Foliar potassium products assist in feeding leaves, fruit and vines. However applications should be stopped 6-8 weeks before harvest, to avoid negative effects on dry matter. If vines are stressed then particular management

practices and products will be required. Robust Psa protective programmes are essential throughout the season and careful consideration of the products and timing of applications is essential. Some products may be detrimental to maintaining valuable leaf quality, particularly during the spring period. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Advisor or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Mark Loeffen, Technical Advisor, Farmlands Horticulture.

THE FARMLANDER | 43

RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Choosing the right rain water tank There are a few points to consider when choosing the right water tank for collecting rain water from your roof, not only the colour or the shape but also, for peace of mind, the quality and size.

replenish their tanks. This means that

Wall thickness is important, especially

with an adequate buffer, the owner

in the base side wall area, which

should be installing at least two 25,000

must withstand the greatest weight

litre tanks.

pressure of anywhere on the tank. The

If you are required to store water

best manufacturing process is what is

for fire purposes, this will also need

termed as a one-piece construction,

While you can never have too much water stored, you can certainly have not enough – especially to last through a dry season.

to be added.

To calculate the capacity you require or the size and/or number of tanks, follow through the simple questions and calculation below.

gives you 1 litre of rain water.

on a hillside or lowered into the ground

After finding the amount of storage you

due to height restriction and/or for

require, you will need to choose the

aesthetic reasons, choose a corrugated

right tank. Not all polyethylene tanks are

style tank that remains fully warranted

• What will be my daily water consumption?

the same but can be differentiated by

when buried and especially so with no

design and manufacturing processes

unsafe cavities left around the tank.

• How long is the dry period with little rain for the area I live in?

used – for example, a tank with vertical

When you are required to install a Fire

For example, a four person home with a 50 day dry period means the household needs to have stored at least 32,500 litres of fresh water to last them through when there is no substantial rain to

Ensure the tank complies with New

To calculate the amount of rain water your roof can collect, the formulae is – 1mm of rain falling onto 1 square metre

parting lines will split open easily. Zealand Potable (Drinking) Water and Food Contact Standards, is fully UV stabilised and has a suitable manhole entry and ventilated lid.

which means the lid or dome is not added on separately. If your water tank needs to be situated

Service Outlet Coupling Kit, ensure the tank wall is strong enough and also that the tank warranty will not be made void with a larger penetration made into the wall. Some manufacturers offer up to 14 different colours, smooth wall and

Home water consumption table ACTIVITY

LITRES (DAILY)

Toilet – full flush

Bath

100 - 140

Shower

15 - 20/minute

Dishwasher per load

35 - 50

Handbasin

natural surroundings.

OUTDOORS – GARDEN Sprinkler or Handheld Hose

really helps your water tank to fit into

14/minute

Garden

Drinking, cooking, cleaning

variation of the corrugation design

Bathroom

surroundings and surprisingly the visual

15%

Toilet

150

Brushing teeth with tap running

select the best colour to suit your

19%

Kitchen

Washing machine per load

corrugated wall styles all made from polyethylene, which allows you to

26%

Laundry

– half flush

35%

Daily average water usage

Garden

Garden & Lawn

per household (house only)

Small garden area

135

355

2 people - 360 litres per day

Medium garden area

150

495

4 people - 650 litres per day

Large garden area

165

1125

For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Promax.

Quality when you need it

44 | THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Eliminate overflowing or empty troughs Garry Beckett, owner of Farm Water Services in Waipawa, primarily installs water systems for sheep and beef farms. In the past he has had trouble with valves not operating properly because they couldn’t handle the pressure, which caused either overflowing or empty troughs – a disaster for any farmer. Garry needed a trough valve he could trust to ensure his customers’ troughs were supplied with the right amount of water at the right time. Thirsty cows and overflowing troughs were not an option. Getting the right balance of pressure and flow was important to Garry and his customers alike, so he was pleased when he came across the Hansen Fastflo trough valve, which could guarantee the balance he was looking for. The Fastflo completely solved the “stuck valve syndrome” problem. “I am very happy with Hansen Fastflo. It’s an excellent ‘go-to’ valve because of its combined ability to adapt to such a wide range of applications in either high or low pressure, long or short arm, top or side entry and with a large range of long or short thread inlet adaptor options to boot,” Garry says.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

Hansen Fastflo trough valves are used to automatically fill and maintain the water levels in your animal drinking troughs. Common on-farm applications include:

Fastflo valves are perfect for small,

• Portable troughs – extended either from a current trough valve with a pipe connected to the valve’s included threaded outlet, or from a dedicated break in the waterline for portable trough connections.

the trough and fit multiple thread and

• Dry stock troughs – the valve is robust and ideal for this type of application in both functionality and flow rates. It also has the added benefit of reducing pressure at the outlet for a more controlled flow, reduced turbulence and easy shut off.

the highest flows of any valve of its size,

Additional applications include water storage tanks and water cisterns, larger bowls using short brass arm valves and various feeders. The compact Hansen

Farmlands Technical Field Officer

confined spaces that traditional trough valves won’t fit into, because they are suitable for top or side entry into connection combinations from 15mm to 50mm. Furthermore, the unique patented Ezi Bend brass arm makes water level adjustment a breeze. The Fastflo short arm valve has one of at 500kPa (73 psi) it will deliver 56L/min. The strong, non-corrosive, UV resistant, long life materials are drinking water approved and each valve is hand tested at the Hansen factory. For further information, contact your or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Hansen.

THE FARMLANDER | 45

RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Troughs – how big, how many? Unrestricted stock access to the correct volumes of clean drinking water is essential in maximising production outcomes. There are a number of factors involved in getting the right volume of water to your stock. These include: • Being able to supply the daily water demand for the farm – is tank storage required? • Delivering the peak flow demand to the troughs – outcome of a welldesigned reticulation system. • Size, shape and number of troughs per paddock. Just as considerable thought and expertise is brought to bear in regard to providing enough stock water, so should the selection of the correct trough/s. Round troughs provide the greatest circumference, enabling the most stock to drink at the trough at any one time. Oblong troughs are suitable for lower peak water demands, i.e. sheep, calves/weaners and can be positioned to suit the paddock’s shape or through a fenceline to supply two paddocks. Troughs shouldn’t be selected upon

the volume of water they can contain. Think of a trough as being a drinking utensil, not a storage device. It’s the job of the well-designed water reticulation system to provide enough water to meet peak demand, not the size of the trough. Using troughs for water storage can adversely affect water quality and palatability, with issues including warm water, algae growth, soil, faecal and fertiliser contamination. Stock will respond better to fresh, clean water every time. Stock do not drink evenly over a 24 hour period, so reticulation systems are designed around peak demand. For example – a lactating dairy cow requires 70 litres of water per day, in a herd size of 200 plus, a fifth of them drink at any one time, which is 14 litres per hour, per cow. Dairy and beef cattle require a minimum 450mm of physical space at a trough to drink. It is recommended

that 5 to 10 percent of a dairy herd will drink at any one time. So to provide enough troughs to meet peak demand for a 500 cow dairy herd, the following calculation would be used: • Trough: CB2500 • Diameter: 2,500mm • Circumference: 2,500mm x π = 7,850mm • Number of stock per trough: 7,850mm/450mm = 17.5 cows • Herd size: 500 • 10 percent drinking at any one time: 500/10 = 50 • Number of troughs per paddock: 50/17.5 = 3 Limiting distance between troughs is also important. Cattle are social animals, if they are required to walk more than 300 metres to a trough, it becomes a

450mm 2500mm

social event and the whole herd will tend to go together. This behaviour somewhat negates the benefit of having multiple troughs in a paddock, as they will then compete for water at that one trough they have just moved to. Just as delivering adequate volumes of water to a paddock is vital to maximise

Trough Type

Dimensions

Application

RB300

Oblong 650mm x 1,900mm

Sheep, calves/weaners

CB500

Round 1,484mm diameter

Sheep, cattle and small herd (<200) dairy cows

For further information, contact your

CB1500

Round 2,000mm diameter

Large herd (200+) dairy cows

or the friendly team at your local

CB2500

Round 2,500mm diameter

Large herd (500+) dairy cows

46 | THE FARMLANDER

production, so is ensuring there is enough troughs, strategically located to allow unfettered access to this water. Farmlands Technical Field Officer Farmlands store. Article supplied by Humes.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

CO-OPERATIVE NEWS

DAIRY HERD AUCTION ON-FARM AUCTION OF COMPLETE HIGH INDEX HERD

A/C of Otokia Farming Enterprises Limited, Paul and Rochelle Urquhart

• Approximately 500 mixed age in-calf cows and 140 R2 in-calf heifers.

TO BE HELD ON-FARM: 405 Bush Road, Mosgiel (sign posted from SH 1, 3km south of Mosgiel)

• HERD: Friesian and Friesian X BW:93, PW:119, RA:99%. Calving from 25/07/17.

DATE: 12.00pm, Wednesday 22nd February 2017 (unless sold prior)

• IN-CALF HEIFERS: Friesian and Friesian X BW:138, PW:148 calving from 25/07/17, to AI sires and Jersey bulls.

DELIVERY/SETTLEMENT: Thursday 1st June 2017

• Rare opportunity to purchase genuine high index cows and replacement R2 heifers.

For further information, contact:

• Good age breakdown.

Scott Gibson Smith

• Cows will be LIC computer split into lines of 40-50.

027 255 8501 Paul Urquhart

• In-calf heifers will be LIC computer split into lines of 25-30.

027 543 7774

DAIRY LIVESTOCK FOR SALE Area

Tally

Description

Calving $ + GST

Agent

Woodville

220

Outstanding Jersey and Jersey X herd, LIC 70 years

106

98%

6.08.17

$2,200

Philip Webb 027 801 8057

Canterbury

950

Friesian/Friesian X, very tidy young herd 400+ M/S

67%

29.08.17

$1,950

Richard van Wynbergen 027 445 6056

Northland

250

Quiet Jersey cows milked on limestone, will shift well

103

118

99%

7.07.17

$2,100

Blair Sidwell 021 325 325

Canterbury

700

Hard working cows capable of performing in any system

100

93%

28.07.17

$2,200

Grant McIlroy 027 345 9262

Hawke's Bay

720

Friesian/Friesian X and Jersey cows, high producing

90%

1.08.17

$2,150

Chris Johnston 027 257 4091

Waikato

110

Friesian and Friesian X heifers

100

15.7.17

$1,600

Jason Duncan 021 170 5354

Canterbury

140

Friesian content from capital line, well grown

103

110

1.8.17

$1,800

Andy Stringer 0274 211 686

Canterbury

230

Mainly Friesian, capital line

108

119

17.07.17

$1,800

Richard van Wynbergen 027 445 6056

Hawke's Bay

127

Straight Holstein Friesian genetics autumn calvers

14.03.17

$1,950

Chris Johnston 027 257 4091

Herds (June Delivery)

R2 Heifers (May Delivery)

For further information, contact the Farmlands Livestock team: livestock@farmlands.co.nz 0800 200 600 www.farmlands.co.nz

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER | 47

Richard and Margaret Spencer-Bower, Rangiora.

How much we’ve saved with Farmlands Card surprises us.

The Card that gives back Saves you money 48 | THE FARMLANDER

Saves you time

Rewards you

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

Works for you

Your exclusive shareholder deals 12% Meridian prompt payment discount +

4% shareholder rebate.

2% shareholder rebate.

12% Genesis Energy prompt payment discount. 2% shareholder rebate.

3% shareholder rebate.

2.5% shareholder rebate.

Plus, rebates and discounts at 7,000+ Card Partner locations nationwide.

Contact us for a quote or to add services to your Farmlands Account. 0800 200 600 | ask@farmlands.co.nz | www.farmlands.co.nz/card | Ask in-store

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THE FARMLANDER | 49

FARMLANDS FUEL

Emergency response plan essential when storing fuel Farmers have a legal obligation in relation to storage of fuel on farms. Farmers are required to safely store and handle fuel, so as to ensure it is not a source of pollution to the environment or a source of harm to your family, your employees and yourself.

spillage or leakage if it is safe to do so.

and keep these records for 2 years.

Once this is done, stop the product

The plan must also be tested within

escaping to drains or waterways, clean

3 months of a change to the installation

up (if it is safe to do so) and contact

or personnel.

Safe storage of fuel also makes financial sense, as there is no value in paying for fuel wasted through leaks, drips or spills.

of petrol/diesel stored on a farm,

What to do in an emergency

information required to respond

In the case of a spill or leakage of fuel, the prime concern is the safety of any people near the emergency.

to an emergency involving petrol

For further information, please

and/or diesel.

refer to WorkSafe’s Generic

There is a responsibility under HSNO to

Emergency Management Plan at

The immediate action is to stop the

test emergency response plans yearly

www.worksafe.govt.nz

your Regional/District Council regarding disposal of contaminated material. Emergency response plan Where there is a total of 1,000 litres the person in charge must provide an emergency response plan. An emergency response plan includes all

Tank up!

provide any information or assistance required to ensure all farmers comply with these requirements. If you require any assistance, please contact your local Farmlands Fuel Territory Manager or phone the Farmlands Fuel Customer Services team on 0800 666 626.

Overhead Fuel Tank

2,490

$ • • • •

FAR_06099

The team at Farmlands Fuel is happy to

Minimum 900 Litres Safe Fill level* Fixed ladder with work platform 4m hose with manual nozzle Clear bowl water blocker filtration

.00 Excl. GST Plus freight

SAVE OVE R

$500

Call the Farmlands Fuel team on 0800 666 626 - Option 3, or visit www.farmlands.co.nz/fuel

*Terms and Conditions apply. Tank model may vary from picture by Island between 925 and 1,000 litres capacity. Image indicative only.

50 | THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

WHAT'S IN-STORE

Footwear for your lifestyle New Zealand is well known for the

Some of the aspects you should

dry and grease them up after use, you

great outdoors and most people

look for when choosing your

can be sure they will last the distance.

have a passion to be a part of it,

footwear are ankle support and

Grisport Footwear has a range of

whether in recreation or lifestyle.

strength, waterproof or water

There are so many different

men’s and women’s styles available

resistant, stability or lightweight

activities and pastimes that people

and wide or medium width last.

for different types of outdoor activities.

enjoy, be it hunting, trekking,

Lightweight hiking shoes are better

camping, hiking, or just going for a

since 1977, Grisport has a passion

suited for short distances on well-

good walk. To really enjoy the great

maintained trails, high leg and ankle

for the great outdoors, inspired by

outdoors, you must be prepared. One of the most important things is to have good, comfortable footwear that has been designed for the activity you are doing. Naturally, the difference in footwear required for someone going for a good walk and someone going on a hunting trip is huge – and the most important factors required for footwear are that they are a good fit, comfortable and supportive.

boots will give you a good ankle

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

support, as the boot will obviously encompass the ankle area. A support system in the sole of the boot will give you more stability when carrying a pack or when trying to jump from

Designed and manufactured in Italy

the Dolomite Mountains that are surrounding them. This is obvious in the quality and styles they produce. Using the latest technology, their focus is on comfort, support, style and quality workmanship.

rock to rock through a river. With the

Head into your local Farmlands store

variety of foot width, it is essential you

and check out the Grisport range.

try your choice of footwear on before purchasing them and when you clean,

Article supplied by Footwear and Apparel New Zealand Limited.

THE FARMLANDER | 51

CO-OPERATIVE NEWS

Gulf Oil partners with THE Expo New Zealand’s largest Transport and Heavy Equipment extravaganza, THE Expo, is revved up and ready to roll with the announcement of a partnership with Gulf Oil. The Transport and Heavy Equipment Expo (THE Expo) is the only allencompassing trade event of its kind in the country, offering visitors and exhibitors alike the opportunity to engage with industry representatives and view the latest technologies in the transport and heavy equipment sector. The event is held every 4 years and will run from 2nd - 4th March 2017. Held at Mystery Creek Events Centre in Hamilton, THE Expo is owned by the New Zealand National Fieldays Society. It is jointly endorsed by the Motor Industry Association, the New Zealand Truck-Trailer Manufacturers Federation and the New Zealand Equipment Suppliers Association.

New Zealand National Fieldays Society CEO, Peter Nation, says Gulf Oil will be the event partner of THE Expo for 2017 and he is excited about what the partnership will bring to the event and its exhibitors. “Gulf Oil is a well-recognised and reputable worldwide brand, with values that align well with our own. Our partnership with them endorses our efforts to deliver a top quality, industryleading event,” he says. “Gulf Oil is a perfect fit for THE Expo. The company is well resourced and connected to our markets, so we expect great support from them. I’m confident our industry exhibitors will enjoy the exposure opportunities Gulf Oil can provide to a large network of stores and a new choice in a great product.” Gulf Oil is a large and growing family of companies, united under the common and famous symbol, the Gulf brand.

Gulf Oil brand operations are present in more than 100 countries worldwide, focusing on lubricant and fuel products and services. Gulf Oil’s National Sales Manager in New Zealand, Sander Kriek, says the company brings an amazing heritage to THE Expo, as one of the original seven sisters of oil companies. “As part of our partnership with THE Expo, Gulf Oil will showcase its connection to the New Zealand transport and heavy equipment industry, along with its outstanding motorsport lineage in New Zealand with Bruce McLaren, Chris Amon and Denny Hulme,” he says. “This partnership is the perfect fit for Gulf Oil and the transport and heavy equipment industry. Everyone connected to the industry has a need and use for oil and Gulf Oil brings a quality product to the market. Gulf Oil already has key partnerships and full Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) approvals with all major players in the transport and heavy equipment industry. It is good to support the community via THE Expo and highlight choice in the market.” THE Expo 2017 will feature exhibits and demonstrations from exhibitors across transportation, logistics, construction, forestry, agriculture, contracting, health and safety, quarry and mining, roading and training and recruitment. For more information and to register for tickets, visit www.theexpo.co.nz

52 | THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

Works for you CO-OPERATIVE NEWS

End of Summer Savings Cost + 5%

on all Appliances and

Massive Discounts

on Furniture, Sports & Outdoor* *Terms & Conditions apply, please ask in store for details. GST will be added at point of sale. Payment must be made using your Farmlands Card.

STORES NATIONWIDE

Simply use your Farmlands card

VISIT WWW.SMITHSCITY.CO.NZ TO FIND YOUR CLOSEST STORE!

Meridian, your on-farm electricity experts P Competitive rates that adjust to the seasons P Pay your Meridian bill through your Farmlands Account and receive a 12% prompt payment discount, plus 2% shareholder rebate* P Dedicated ITO trained Agribusiness specialists who come to you and provide advice on getting the most out of your farm electricity

For a tailored package that suits your farm call Meridian today on Proud to be a partner of

0800 496 444 *Terms and conditions apply

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

0245A

THE FARMLANDER | 53

Works for you CO-OPERATIVE NEWS

Protect your tank with Levno On average there are approximately 54,000 reported burglaries in New Zealand every year – one every 10 minutes – and many more go unreported. Reporting all crimes and suspicious behaviour is extremely important, especially in rural areas, as it can help Police establish if there is a pattern of crime developing that needs further investigation. New technology from Levno provides an important layer of security for farm tanks that can help with reporting crime when it happens. Levno provides customers with vital information to continuously and remotely monitor milk vat, fuel storage and water delivery or irrigation levels. The Levno sensor alerts customers via text message or email when the tank levels change and can be set to different parameters to suit business needs and identify potential theft. Many customers have reported that fuel shrinkage stopped when Levno is connected – which has a huge financial impact for business owners. With a minimal capital cost and low monthly fee, Levno is reshaping agri-business.

54 | THE FARMLANDER

Farmlands is currently offering a further 10 percent discount on monthly fees for shareholders who sign up through their Farmlands Card. If you want to learn more about how Levno can improve your business, visit www.levno.com or call the Levno team on 0800 453 866.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

Attention dairy farmers!

CO-OPERATIVE NEWS

Maximise returns for your cull cows with the Farmlands National Cull Cow Scheme By grouping large numbers of cows regionally, your independent co-operative will negotiate a better deal for your animals – putting more money in your pocket.

Book your cows now. STEP 1: Go to www.farmlands.co.nz/cull STEP 2: Register your cows STEP 3: Farmlands will confirm all details including pricing For more information contact: Brian Martin – 021 244 4463 Philip Webb – 027 801 8057 Rob Blincoe – 027 677 8969

FAR_04874

Or call us on 0800 200 600

Terms and Conditions apply. Available to Farmlands shareholders only. See www.farmlands.co.nz/cull/terms for more information.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER | 55

Works for you CO-OPERATIVE CO-OPERATIVENEWS NEWS

OFFER

20% OFF

R RY F O UA Y ! BR NL FE O

EXCLUSIVE FARMLANDS SHAREHOLDER

TOOLS 85 Stores Nationwide • OPEN 7 DAYS • www.repco.co.nz • Freephone 0800 800 878

*Excludes already reduced, promotional and clearance items. Valid until 28 February 2017. E & OE

56 | THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

40 UP TO

OFF*

SELECTED SUMMER APPAREL

Including shorts, hats, Legend summer shirts, R.M. Williams shirts, Stoney Creek and Swanndri apparel, Speight’s and Tui gear.

Legend summer shirts from Speight’s summer apparel from

.50

R.M. Williams shirts from

.60 $

.00

Be in quick to make the most of these sizzling deals! *Terms and Conditions apply. While stocks last. Prices valid from 1st – 28th February 2017.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER | 57

REAL ESTATE

Real Estate Update Welcome to 2017. The lead into Christmas saw our team very busy facilitating and making sales nationwide. Our residential teams have enjoyed a very buoyant period, typically with multiple offers on listings within a very short timeframe. It would appear the Auckland market is beginning to slow and historically in the following months, provincial regions have followed this trend. Interest rates remain low and immigration numbers show no signs of slowing, so potentially any easing may be a gradual process. Our lifestyle vendors in the entry to mid-level price range have also enjoyed reduced selling timeframes with strong buyer enquiry. However, the reality is that the upper end of the market has a reduced number of buyers and sales have been slower in the making. It has been pleasing to see a slight increase in the number of dairy farms being sold. Our team have been making sales, with the trend being that the successful purchaser has been a neighbour seeking to grow their business. Buyer enquiry from outside the district has been limited and the value these buyers have offered has usually not been strong enough to secure a sale. Sale prices achieved for properties with quality soils and infrastructure have been at levels recorded at the peak of the market in 2014-15, however the number of sales made relative during that period are still at a low level. We do have a number of very good dairy farms that will be offered to the market in the upcoming selling period. Leading into Christmas we sold sheep and beef farms in Southland, Otago, Canterbury, Wairarapa, Manawatu, Hawke’s Bay, King Country and Northland. In a number of cases, our vendors have received multiple offers for their consideration. Sale prices were at similar levels recorded from our initial successful spring selling campaigns but notably buyer enquiry had reduced. What has been of interest is the strength of horticulture markets, with kiwifruit, pipfruit and avocado opportunities creating tremendous interest and in some instances, record prices. An example being a Hawke’s Bay 8 hectare apple orchard Farmlands Real Estate offered to the market by auction in early December. Enquiry from qualified buyers was strong and as a result of the competition created, our vendor received a

60 | THE FARMLANDER 58

record price per hectare for the Hawke’s Bay. My assessment of meeting with our vendor, viewing the orchard and assisting in the auction process was that the ability for our team to market this orchard specifically to our Farmlands horticultural shareholders added much value. Shareholders wishing to invest in horticulture property may wish to consider avocados. I inspected an 18 hectare avocado orchard recently in Kaitaia and can recommend to our shareholders the opportunity advertised below is very worthy of consideration and the fishing at nearby Houhora is said to be fabulous. The story of Manuka honey continues to gather momentum driven by higher commodity pricing and like the organic sector, there seems to be some long-term growth and investment strategies being exercised. We are currently working with purchasers seeking opportunities in these sectors. A key challenge in the summer – autumn selling season for a number of our vendors and purchasers will be new and proposed environmental changes affecting nutrients and water plans. In particular the ‘Healthy Rivers Plan’ encompassing the Waikato and Waipa Rivers, which requires a change to how farms are operated and managed into the future. There has been some discussion to what implications there may be on land owners’ equity and values. Within Farmlands Real Estate, our South Island team’s experience (having been through this with the Southland and Otago Regional Councils and Environment Canterbury) was that there was an initial period of hesitation but as months progressed from the proposal to implementation, we did not see any evidence of a decline in land values, rather businesses adapting and moving forward.

Calvin Leen General Manager Real Estate 027 453 0950 calvin.leen@farmlands.co.nz

Preliminary notice 18 hectare avocado orchard located in proximity to Kaitaia, producing approximately 20,000 trays of avocados per year. Paul Yates 027 577 9962

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

REAL ESTATE

Indicative boundary

Dual income dairy plus mine

Property ID: DG1019

Indicative boundary

Northland hill country

Property ID: DG1018

This 279 hectare Wellsford dairy farm has a silica sand mine, panoramic sea views and its own beach access. The dairy farm is self-contained and the 320 cow herd produces 375-400kgMS per cow. The property is very well-presented in immaculate condition and it boasts a state of the art 40 aside cow shed and two dwellings. Tender closing 2pm, Tuesday 28 February 2017 (unless sold by private treaty).

This 268 hectare sheep and beef farm is ideally located for a great lifestyle only 5km off State Highway 1 – central to Whangarei, the Bay of Islands Opua Marina and the East Coast beaches. The farm sits in a sheltered north-facing basin among magnificent native bush and the attractive spacious family home is an added bonus. The top bloodline Angus herd is available to the purchaser. $2,500,000 plus GST (if any).

Nicky Reid 0800 100 027

Piopio – multiple opportunities here Breeding and finishing property in an excellent location and strong farming district, situated 9km from Piopio and 24km from Te Kuiti. 169 hectares approximately (subject to final survey of one title), well subdivided into 27 main paddocks with good fences, Mairoa ash soil and gravity fed spring water. The contour is flat, easy and medium to steeper hill. There is a very good, large family home, smaller woolshed, yards and loading facilities. Deadline sale closing 4pm, Friday 10 February 2017 (unless sold prior).

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ 61 | THE FARMLANDER

Property ID: TK1023 www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

Kevin Wrenn Lifestyle/Rural 021 136 6843 kevin.wrenn@farmlands.co.nz Les Old Lifestyle/Rural 027 248 2667 les.old@farmlands.co.nz

THE FARMLANDER | 59 WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

REAL ESTATE

Flat, fertile and ready to go

Property ID: MT1026 www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

82 hectare dairy unit (subject to final survey) located in the well-respected dairy district of Otorohanga. Improvements are of good quality and include a modern three bedroom home that has a separate flat. 25 aside herringbone dairy with a Milfos plant and 350 cow circular yard, plus a range of support buildings. The farm has been operating as a 90 hectare unit with 8 hectares of lease â&#x20AC;&#x201C; milking 275 cows and having a 3 year average production of 93,445kgMS with calves on. Tender closing 2pm, Wednesday 8 March 2017 (unless sold by private treaty).

60 | THE FARMLANDER 62

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

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

REAL REAL ESTATE ESTATE

Rosedale Grange

Property ID: TU10893 www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

Located close to the Hunters Hills in South Canterbury, which is renowned for its higher rainfall. This 218 hectare property has run a mixture of breeding ewes, fattening cattle and deer for many years. The land comprises of flats and easy rolling downs with a small area of gully. 2-stand woolshed and sheep yards, cattle yards, deer shed, a three bedroom home plus implement sheds and hay barns. The property has been faithfully farmed by the current owners’ family for 60 years and it is now for genuine sale. Deadline sale closing 1pm, Wednesday 22 February 2017.

Simon Richards Lifestyle/Rural 027 457 0990 simon.richards@farmlands.co.nz

Pisgah Downs

Property ID: TU10901 www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

2,457 hectare mid-altitude property situated in the Kakanui mountain range, 53km inland from Oamaru. The property has a four bedroom weatherboard homestead with farm support buildings close by – 4-stand woolshed, sheep yards and two sets of cattle yards. Subdivided into 10 blocks of clean, open tussock country between McKenzie Road and the south branch of the Maerewhenua River. Potential to increase production with subdivision, cultivation and fertiliser. Deadline sale closing 4pm, Monday 27 February 2017.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ 63 | THE FARMLANDER

Barry Kingan Lifestyle/Rural 027 229 5046 barry.kingan@farmlands.co.nz Merv Dalziel Lifestyle/Rural 027 439 5823 merv.dalziel@farmlands.co.nz

THE FARMLANDER | 61 WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

REAL ESTATE

Rawhiti Farm

Property ID: WA1468 www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

194 hectare dairy unit located in Peebles, North Otago with a has an outstanding architecturally designed homestead, plus two other homes. 42 bail rotary shed, ancillary buildings, fantastic lower Waitaki irrigation water and beautiful shelter plantings, creating an awesome dairy unit. 123 hectare support block nearby available to purchase. This property is for genuine sale, as Vendors are retiring after 51 years. Deadline sale closing 4pm, Monday 27 February 2017.

Ian Moore Lifestyle/Rural 027 539 8152 ian.moore@farmlands.co.nz Neill Dick Lifestyle/Rural 021 359 793 neill.dick@farmlands.co.nz

Rathmore â&#x20AC;&#x201C; what a beauty!

Property ID: WA1469 www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

123 hectare property located in the heart of the well sought after Waitaki Plains. Currently a support property for a nearby dairy farm, which could also be purchased. With its layout, would make an ideal conversion. The property is border-dyked with approximately 85% wide borders on a 16 day rotation. With three silage pits, this property is a real grass machine. The property is complemented by a four bedroom home, older woolshed, large cattle yards, work shop and implement shed. Deadline sale closing 4pm, Monday 27 February 2017.

64 62 | THE FARMLANDER

Ian Moore Lifestyle/Rural 027 539 8152 ian.moore@farmlands.co.nz Neill Dick Lifestyle/Rural 021 359 793 neill.dick@farmlands.co.nz

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE

Dairy run-off or finishing unit Situated 14km from Roxburgh at Ettrick is this 131 hectare unit with a four bedroom home, a very good set of buildings, 5-bay shed, cattle yards and an old stone building suitable for restoration. 12 hectares in kale, approximately 17 hectares lucerne, balance in pasture, 8 units of water from the local scheme to troughs through the property. 22 main paddocks and established shelter rows. The Vendors have developed the irrigation (approximately 25 hectares) and water scheme since 2007. Tender closing 12pm, Friday 10 February 2017 (unless sold by private treaty).

Property ID: DU2482 www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

Craig Bates Lifestyle/Rural 027 489 4361 craig.bates@farmlands.co.nz

Groyne Farm

Property ID: DU2483 www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

Situated 15km from Balclutha in the highly regarded Paretai district, “The Groyne Farm” is offered for genuine sale. Currently farmed as a milking platform, with all stock wintered off within reasonable walking distance. The 145 hectare property is well laid out with 53 paddocks and excellent lane access to the 50 bail rotary shed. Production from the 450 cow herd is on target to achieve 190,000kgMS this season. Two older three bedroom homes complete the offering. Price by negotiation.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ 65 | THE FARMLANDER

Alan Eason Lifestyle/Rural 027 489 8760 alan.eason@farmlands.co.nz

THE FARMLANDER | 63 WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

Owning a lifestyle block comes with its fair share of challenges. Thankfully thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one place you can go to get advice from a team of experts to help you get the most enjoyment and reward from your lifestyle block. We even wrote the manual to give you a hand!

FAR_05700

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An introduction to keeping animals on lifestyle farms in New Zealand, designed to optimise nutrition, wellbeing and inspire confidence to try new ventures.

So head into your local Farmlands store today to pick up your FREE copy.