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China insists our velvet come out of the cold ELOISE MARTYN China has changed its rules for imported velvet used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). From next May, velvet exports to China will have to be dried instead of frozen which has historically been the method of velvet exports. The change only applies to exports to China. Frozen velvet exports to other markets will continue. Seddon-based deer farmer and NZ Deer Farmers Association Chair Justin Stevens says. It’s early days so it is hard to know at this stage how this will impact velvet farmers. “Either way China has set the deadline of April 30th, so velvet exporters need to think about shipping dates and timeframes,” Justin says. Justin got involved in deer farming in the late 1980s and has expanded his operation to run around 400 deer which produce around 2,000 kilos of frozen velvet per season. He says that back in the 1990’s the Nelson, Tasman, and Marlborough regions had around 600 deer farmers, nowadays it’s down to about 70. “Deer farmers need to stick together and that’s where the Deer Farmers Association is there to
Seddon-based deer farmer and NZ Deer Farmers Association Chair, Justin Stevens, says its early days so it’s hard to know at this stage how the new changes will impact his own operation and other velvet farmers. Photo: Supplied.
look after the farmer’s interest and represent the deer farmers of New Zealand and give up to date industry info,” he says. The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and the Deer Industry New Zealand (DINZ) are working with Chinese authorities to clarify the future rules for fro-
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zen velvet and are aiming to get longer-term solutions agreed to enable the continued growth of the velvet trade with China for both, frozen and dried deer velvet. DINZ says that the change China has made won’t affect overall market conditions, including
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growing demand for NZ velvet but it does mean the New Zealand velvet export industry will need to adjust, and the industry has time to do this. “The real challenge for deer farmers currently is cashflow, high input prices, and lower commodity prices, which is nothing we hav-
en’t seen before but makes it challenging,” Justin says. “Amongst it all there are lots of opportunities for the industry and with DINZ working closely with MPI, processors and exporters we have a good chance that we can continue to grow the industry.”
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January 2024
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Plant based meat has ‘tanked’
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Speaking to a group of leading farmers from 12 countries in Hamilton last week, Rabo Banks Nick Fereday says, “plant-based meat and milk have been at the forefront of farmers’ minds since 2019. While plant-based dairy sales seem to be holding up in the US, plant-based meat sales have tanked. They are asking consumers to pay more for a product that isn’t as tasty as the product they are trying to replace,” he says.
Mid December twenty-eight farmers from five continents and 12 different countries spent 10 days in New Zealand taking part in the latest Rabobank Global Farmers Master Class (GFMC). Rabo bank describes it as a state-ofthe-art agri learning programme established in 2012 to bring together leading farmers from around the world to address global food security. The 2023 Rabobank GFMC kicked off in Hamilton last week and finished in Queenstown. The master class programme featured presentations from top agricultural thinkers and business experts, interactive workshops and case studies, as well as visits to a range of flagship agribusiness operations in both the North and South Islands.
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Quay Connect’s new inland port A project by Port Nelson’s QuayConnect, is set to provide warehouse storage space, to support the logistics sector of Marlborough’s primary industries. QuayConnect general manager Jaron McLeod said the inland port had the
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potential to improve efficiency and responsiveness for Marlborough’s exporters and importers. “In the last 12 months, we’ve facilitated the movement of 77% of New Zealand’s wine exports through Port Nelson. With volumes set to increase, this facility is an important step toward, offering container and product storage and warehousing right on Marlborough’s doorstep,” McLeod said. The first stage of construction for the project began at the end of November on the 1.4-hectare Riverlands site, south of Blenheim. A further 2.6ha was reserved for future development.
Understanding Scope 3 DairyNZ’s, Jim Van der Poel wants clarity for farmers from Fonterra. Under Scope 3, dairy farmers will have to reduce their on-farm emissions by 30% by 2030, based on a start date of 2018. Van der Poel says, “farmers don’t fully understand what Fonterra has proposed and DairyNZ is asking for a presentation to get to clear understanding of scope 3. Genetics may be one of the tools Fonterra farmers can tap into to reduce on
farm emissions, according to LIC. Meanwhile DairyNZ is waiting patiently to have constructive discussion with the new Government. “There is the potential risk that in their haste to meet deadlines, some of their decisions won’t necessarily be science based and in the end may have to be relitigated in the future. We are seeking to get a longer time frame so that we’ll end up with better plans,” he says.
Golden Bay Fruit 1.6 million carton record Golden Bay Fruit wrapped up 2023 with a record 1,626,000 cartons of apples dispatched, a Golden Bay Fruit record! The growth has come from new plantings, especially our IP varieties like Sassy™, Cherish™, Miranda™, and Dazzle™, some of which have doubled in volume in the last couple of years. Meanwhile, Golden Bay Fruit exported Jazz™ for the first season, building some new markets for this variety. They are so excited about these unique varieties and their great feedback from the market. They wish to thank all their customers and partners for their continued support.
Editor’s Corner BARBARA STUART No single solution can solve our food, climate, and cost problems. There is a complex set of food chains, soils, class of land and rainfall to tackle with no one set of rules working for everyone. Plus, there are those depressed markets. We are told by those with a global view, change is needed to maintain our place in world markets. We also hear regenerative farming and farm plans will be the answer by policy makers. Changing the practices of thousands of farmers is not straight
forward. Especially if it is driven by central government policy and not by real and genuine engagement with farmers and science. I could do a real rant on the topic. What I have faith in is, our food producers at grass roots, are innovative people. They need time to adopt a toolbox of genuine science based, proven solutions, yet to come on stream. My hope for the coming year is we attain policy that allows farm-
ing businesses to demonstrate real commitment to sustainability and a sustainable income too. There is no simple quick fix! To incoming government policy makers, let us not forget the costly changes made in the last 10-15 years on thousands of farms. Cows are out of creeks, expensive bridges and dairy shed effluent systems are operative. Many farmers have gone into debt and even exited the industry
to let this happen. Now, facing a season of higher costs, predicted drought, low returns and no clear sign of market improvement ahead it is no wonder farmers are saying to government, “We all need a break.” I hope our farming readers have had a break over the festive season and filled up personal energy tanks with fun and good times. As we launch into 2024, we at Top South Farming wish each of you a good farming year and a sustainable future with reliable markets and climate. It is what every business craves.
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Aussie drought impacts on NZ’s market share After several years of favourable weather conditions, resulting in a substantial increase in livestock numbers, Australia now faces dry conditions in the third quarter of 2023. Australian farmers have swiftly downsized their stock numbers leading to an increase in the supply
of sheep meat and beef in New Zealand’s key markets during the latter half of the 2022-23 season, with expectations that this trend will persist into 2023-24. In the first 11 months of 2023, the processing of Australian lambs and sheep witnessed a 7 percent increase, while cattle
processing recorded a significant 16 percent rise compared to 2022. In the year to October 2023, Australia exported 84,000 tonnes more sheep meat and 173,000 tonnes more beef than it did in the same period in 2022. This surplus supply has entered
the international trade arena at a time when demand is fragile, particularly in China, contributing to a decline in prices for prime livestock in New Zealand, particularly lambs and sheep; uncharacteristic for this time of the year, where prices are typically higher.
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Risky driving around logging trucks
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ANNE HARDIE
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Almost every week, dash cams in Stuart Drummond Transport logging trucks capture incidents, but two overtaking motorbikes narrowly avoiding a collision with an oncoming logging truck took it to another level. Dramatic video footage posted on Facebook that showed the close call for the two motorbike riders who squeezed back into their lane just before two logging trucks passed each other in opposite directions. One of the trucks was heading to a logging operation near Picton when the two motorbikes overtook it, just in front of another of the company’s logging trucks with a full load.
Managing director Brodie Drummond says dash cams regularly show incidents with varying degrees of severity and the Commercial Vehicle Safety Team (NZ Police CVST) is very proactive about following up on videos the company forwards to it. A couple of incidents have recently been taken to court and the other drivers charged. He says logging trucks get a bad rap when things go wrong and if the motorcyclists in the recent episode had ended up in an accident, many people would have blamed the logging trucks. His message to drivers this summer is to think about everyone else because if there is an accident, there are repercussions for everyone involved.
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Berry farm ends desperate search for work ANNE HARDIE People with special needs can struggle to find a job, but 23-yearold Tyler Watson is now part of the team at Fairfield Berries near Wakefield and loving it. It has been a long time coming for Tyler who has been desperate to be working like others in the community and doing something useful. The eldest in a family of nine children has Prader-Willi Syndrome which is a rare genetic disorder resulting in a number of physical, mental and behavioural problems. His mother Jacqui says she had been looking a job for Tyler since he left school, but few employers were willing to take him on and she acknowledges the employment laws do not make it easy for them to navigate. Employers have to consider health and safety, plus employment needs to be flexible. Some days Tyler does not want to go to work and some days he takes time out on the berry garden to sit in the hayshed. On the berry garden, he is a volunteer much of the week and gets paid for one day and Jacqui says it is thanks to his employers Patrick and Elise Cotter being willing to be flexible and relaxed about how
Tyler Watson and his boss Patrick Cotter have a good working relationship. Photo: Anne Hardie. and when he works. It is the couple’s second berry season on the 10ha property where they grow boysenberries, raspberries and strawberries, with a shop that sells fruit ice creams and local gifts. Jacqui says Tyler is loving his work, having a boss and earning his own money.
He began just helping out on the berry garden last year because his sisters were working there. He proved to be a diligent worker and the job has just grown from there. “He was weeding a circle around the plants and went through a whole 3ha block,” Patrick says. “He would go four to six hours
weeding.” Jacqui says that is very typical of many people with special needs who are very goal focused when given a task. It morphed into lawn mowing and other jobs around the berry garden and now he goes most days of the week and Jaqui says it has been a life saver for both Ty-
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ler and herself. “Having a special needs person at home can be quite a pressurised thing. I would be medicated up to the eyeballs if he was still at home all the time. So, it’s just as important for me to have somewhere for him to go. “And he is just loving having a purpose.” In his last year of school, Jacqui says Tyler became increasingly anxious because he had nothing to look forward to when he finished and his behaviour deteriorated. She says many people with special needs will go to a day programme, but that does not suit them all, and it is a lot of driving for parents to deliver them and pick them up. “For us, having somewhere for Tyler to go and feel important and productive, and keep him physically fit is priceless for us. If he was at home, it would be one battle after another.” At Fairfield Berries, Patrick says Tyler does many of the jobs that would not otherwise get done and while sometimes he works at pace, he also has time out and that is fine. “Sometimes he will be just staring into space, but it doesn’t matter here.”
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January 2024
Book Review Murray Ball - a Cartoonist’s Life Mason Ball. HarperCollins $45. TONY ORMAN Every farmer or good keen man, particularly those of half a century for more vintage, will remember fondly Footrot Flats a highly popular comic strip that ran from 1976 to 1994 in New Zealand newspapers and became the subject of a stage musical and animated movie. The man behind the Footrot Flats success was Murray Ball, a fine
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Man aw atu rep centre three-quarter and Junior All Black but better known for his cartoon strips of farmer Wal and the Dog. Murray Ball’s son Mason tells of his father’s journey to success and does so in an extremely readable way. The book features numerous photos and cartoons. Highly recommended.
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Schools in Golden Bay ANN THOMPSON Golden Bay is soon to say goodbye to school interruptions as building works finish at both Golden Bay High School and Collingwood Area School. Teachers (and students) will be looking forward to a new year with no noise, dust or distractions. Collingwood Area School has said goodbye to the last remaining building of the twentieth century, a classroom block built in 1937. Originally it had housed the newly opened secondary school in one room, with the other two rooms catering for children from ages five to twelve. Open plan schooling is not a new concept, though back in 1940 there were fewer to teach, with only 53 primary and 25 secondary students registered. This concludes the massive building project that has seen the complete school rebuilt over the last year. There are few regrets about this
progress. One monster in the room is actually in the room, as both schools now have the dubious honour of being fully carpeted with recycled plastic rather than the wool carpet previously in place, and under that, wooden flooring which was probably milled from local trees. It seems the change in Government this year has come too late for these schools as the incoming Government announced just in December that all Government buildings (which includes schools) that were planning on recarpeting would be using wool. Rural Women NZ (RWNZ) and Federated Farmers have long lobbied for this and are absolutely delighted in this change. Rural communities are the backbone of these schools and RWNZ, previously known as Federated Farmers’ Women’s Division, has been integral in providing the extras that aren’t covered by the Ministry of Education’s budget.
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Where there is insufficient funding to cover trips away, RWNZ often steps in to fill the gap. The same can be said for repainting the school pool and supporting the library and netball teams. In Collingwood, the local branches of RWNZ have a close connection with the school. ‘We have been very delighted to be hosted each year by the Principal who has kept us appraised of the progress as this building project has come to fruition’, says Carolyn McLellan, President of the Bainham Rural Women. A farewell to the old classroom block was held in December, just before the school term ended, with many ex-pupils attending. Unfortunately, classes were still to be held in these rooms for a few days after the gathering, which rather hindered the itch to write something very naughty on the walls, throw rocks through the windows or to take a bit of the skirting board home for old time’s sake.
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OPINION
Lets discuss what we do agree about KATE ACLAND We have arguably come out of one of the most divisive periods in New Zealand agriculture. With a change of government, there is now an opportunity to reset and move our sector forward. I’m concerned we put this opportunity at risk through continued disagreement among ourselves. If we want our sector to thrive, we can’t afford to be divided — instead, let’s focus on all the things we do agree on. Because we do agree on a lot. Most of us probably acknowledge that change in the way we farm is inevitable. We certainly aren’t farming how our parents and grandparents did, and the expectation is that our children won’t do it quite the same as we did. We surely all agree that for our farming businesses to survive and thrive through change and to continue to be sustainable, we must be profitable. We can accept that the most enduring and successful change is farmer-led, through innovation and a willingness to adapt and try new things. And those of us who are actively
farming all agree that the past six years of change dictated through highly prescriptive regulation has been challenging to say the least. Fundamental changes are needed to many of the rules that have been introduced. But we can probably also all agree that a change in government at some point in the future is inevitable. These issues are not going away and we want to avoid the pendulum swinging back to what we’ve experienced over the past six years. Now is the opportunity for us to implement real farmer-led change and find enduring solutions that address the issues that are specific to our farms and catchments in ways that give real benefits and outcomes. Most of us agree that the climate is changing — we certainly don’t agree on the degree of influence agriculture has over that change, but we can probably acknowledge it will impact our farm businesses in some way. We know that our country has made international climate commitments. Of course, we have mixed feelings about this — but
Kate Acland, chairwoman of Beef + Lamb New Zealand. we can all agree further research is needed, especially on the impacts of methane versus longlived gases. We also mostly agree that the current methane targets are too high. We might not agree on which scientist is right, but we know that ongoing work is needed. And I’m certain most of us agree that pricing agricultural emissions when there are no readily available technologies available to farmers will not lead to the right outcomes for our sector or the New Zealand economy as a whole. We all acknowledge that genetic gains, particularly in sheep, have
revolutionised our sector in the past 30 years, and that ongoing investment and improvement will benefit our sector further. We might not agree on the specific traits, but we never have. It’s a choice for every farmer to make based on their own individual farming circumstances. Some farmers do want to select for low methane-producing sheep as part of a balanced breeding programme with other important production traits, while others don’t and that’s OK. Let’s instead focus on ensuring we have world-leading genetics databases across both sheep and beef and provide farmers with the tools they need so they can choose how they want to increase their productivity and profitability. Most of us would also agree that a catchment-led approach will lead to better water quality and biodiversity outcomes, rather than centralised regulation. We all know that a framework of regulation that enables farmers to manage change in this way is preferable to an overly prescriptive framework. We are an export nation and we
probably all agree that we need to be focused on the demands of our global markets. We can disagree as to the level of importance of that issue, but most of us would agree that we need to control the narrative, be the ones telling our story and ensure we’re producing beef and lamb that meet the expectations of customers and consumers. What we need right now is a strong and cohesive sector. We need to show the New Zealand public, the incoming government, and future governments that our sector is united and we’re up for the challenge. We need to rise to that challenge, adapt and lead change where it’s needed — so that we never face a period as restrictive as the one we are emerging from. So, as we head into the summer and some time off, let’s accept we might need to agree to disagree on a few things, but focus on the significant number of things we do agree on. Kate Acland is chairwoman of Beef + Lamb New Zealand and a Mid Canterbury sheep, beef and dairy farmer.
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OPINION
Bridging the divide GARRICK BATTEN According to a recent survey, an urban/rural divide does not exist because urban people value farming for creating jobs, protecting the environment and providing food. As for jobs, the farm employment circus has not come to town and it’s just as well farmers protect the rural environment because urban people seem to have trouble protecting theirs. Food was their primary focus, but appreciating something does not mean understanding it. Food costs are a good example with household living costs up 7.4% in the 12 months to last September. Do they understand farm costs producing their food have increased by more than double that? Do they understand that 90% of the food farmers produce is exported to get those market prices, not the added costs to create it? Do they understand that planting trees, and farmers have a lot of forests, now has a $30.25 per ha cost for sequestering carbon to protect their environment? Appreciation does not equal trust and knowledge; now is
the time for farming to work on that. It needs more than ex-farmer MPs who now have political aspirations and responsibilities. It also needs more than the limited and often ignorant agricultural policy advice available to them from various government departments that influence farming. The survey showed media was blamed for the urban lack of knowledge. Add understanding, like commentators continually parroting that farmers don’t pay for emissions, when not only do they pay like everyone else, their emissions are different. They cannot add on costs like urban businesses. No other country requires NZ to tax emissions — just reduce warming, that is happening. It is up to Federated Farmers to turn their communications focus on this urban sector. It has information about farming profitability, now at a 15year low, and how sheep and cattle farmers’ profit has more than halved in the last two years with an average return on capital of 3-4%. Urban people also need connections that need farmer action. The annual Open Day and 10,000 visitors
are one thing. Adopting a lamb is another. But a connection can be in multiple ways, and social media channels an obvious choice. Not relying on supermarkets for farming information as more than half have claimed. The target is not four million individual urbanites but influential channels like the Green Party. Its predominantly urban party vote came first in two electorates, second in three and nearly second in another two. Its members, their MPs and Green local body councillors developed fifty policies. Eleven directly influenced farming and the Agriculture and Rural policy detailed 92 clauses. It can be criticised for its aspects but can be better informed for better policies, and presumably would welcome that. It is all about understanding. A specific target would be their widely supported wealth tax proposal discouraging growth. Regardless, a 2.5% tax on wealth of more than $2m would just about unjustly equal a farmer’s net income, to be paid in cash every year. And add to the cost of supermarket food?
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Priorities for the new Government WAYNE LANGFORD Federated Farmers The new Government wants to make fast progress in its first 100 days on key commitments made during campaigning. We’ve stepped up to make sure they’re clear about our sector’s priorities. Leaders of Federated Farmers, Beef + Lamb NZ and DairyNZ are meeting regularly to discuss strategy and priorities to avoid duplication of effort and present a united front to decision makers. Earlier this week we agreed our five key advocacy priorities over the next three months. These five priorities are all included in the coalition agreements agreed by National, ACT and NZ First. These aren’t the only five areas of importance to farmers, but they are key areas we want to see immediate progress on from the incoming Government. Priority 1 from us – repeal and replace the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management (NPS-FM). This policy statement is a direction from David Parker to Regional Councils to set rules on farmers to meet new national bottom lines for freshwater and give effect to ‘Te Mana O Te Wai’. A recent report has shown the new standards are unachievable even in areas of native forest or National
Park. Plans developed so far need to implement draconian rules in order to come anywhere near the new standards. For example Northland has released a draft plan that places restrictions on farming on land over 25 degrees – around 40% of the agricultural land in Northland. Priority 2 is establishing the Rural Regulation Review Panel. We want to see this up and running and working on cutting red tape and regulatory blocks for irrigation, water storage, managed aquifer recharge, flood protection and simply the dayto-day running of our farms. Priority 3 is to start the review of the unscientific methane targets. These are the targets that don’t recognise methane as a short lived gas and, if achieved, could require a 20% reduction in sheep and beef production. Priority 4 is to cease implementation of Significant Natural Areas, and Priority 5 is to repeal the last Government’s two resource management acts and start work on replacement legislation. A new RMA will take time to develop so it is important work starts on this right away. The new Government has made a range of very useful commitments. We aim to hold them to their agenda and keep them in touch with our united views on key issues.
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Fishing over the holidays FISH & GAME The holiday season is here, and it’s a popular time for Kiwis to go fishing in their favourite rivers and lakes. In Nelson Marlborough, the start of this fishing season has been one of the better ones in recent years. The stable winter and spring period has been great for the trout population – trout have come out the other side of their spawning duties in top condition, and by October 1 staff were seeing plenty of pictures of football-like trout and very happy anglers. Since then, minor rain events have kept rivers in prime condition, and we are now entering a golden month on the fishing calendar. The big talking point so far has been not only the quality of the fish but an increase in numbers compared to previous years. Recent drift dives undertaken by Fish & Game staff have shown good numbers of large trout in most rivers we’ve been in, plus a bumper crop of young fish coming through due to the ideal spawning conditions over winter. Most importantly, angler feedback from the sea-
Baylee Kersten from Fish & Game West Coast showing participants some trout flies during a session on the Basics of Fly Fishing. Photo: Supplied. son so far has been terrific. Our hatchery programme has been busy and over 5000 1kg-plus trout will be released this season. We have liberated plenty of fish already into Lake Argyle and Waimea Park (two of our most popular fisheries), along with the Branch and Leatham rivers. For a bit of holiday fun, check out our highly popular Lake Argyle tagged fish competition which is coming up from Christmas onwards, where 200 tagged
fish are released and some great prizes are up for grabs. We also have around 80 double-digit bruisers that we’ll be slipping into Argyle over the next few months, which certainly keeps some of the big fish fanatics happy. Meanwhile, on the West Coast, a group of enthusiastic beginner anglers recently gathered at the Taramakau River to attend a session on the Basics of Fly Fishing. The event began with a discussion about fly fishing, including the different types of gear available to anglers, as well as fly types and how to set up the rod for the catch. After the discussion, it was time for the participants to test their skills on the water and practice their casting, though, despite the absence of rain, the wind certainly made the session fairly challenging. Summer has arrived on the West Coast; warm days are resulting in river and lake temperatures hitting optimal levels for fishing, so now is a great time to get together and get out fishing. From the Fish & Game team, we wish you a safe and enjoyable holiday season.
An enormous responsibility STUART SMITH Kaikoura MP The last few years have been incredibly tough for many New Zealanders with patience wearing thin waiting on a final election result, and then, a coalition agreement. But, that time has been well spent on an ambitious plan for our first 100 days in Office, and starting to improve New Zealanders’ lives. While it is ambitious to deliver 49 actions in 100 days, we have had to hit the ground running and repealing Three Waters, stopping work on Auckland Light Rail, and withdrawing taxpayer funding from Let’s Get Wellington Moving are our top priorities. Because we believe that healthcare should be based on need, not race, we will introduce legislation to disestablish the Māori Health Authority. We have already started work to unravel Labour’s Polytechnic mega-merger blunder, Te Pūkenga, which has been a disaster for New Zealand’s vocational sector. Educational performance will be lifted by ensuring prima-
ry and intermediate schools across the board, from the start of 2024, are consistently teaching an hour each day of maths, reading and writing, and banning mobile phone use in class. Something that should never have been allowed in the first place. All of the above, and more, is in our 100-day plan, but it is the explosion in crime that is the most concerning. We all have the right to feel safe on our streets and in our homes – yet many communities across New Zealand live in an environment of fear and intimidation because of gang activities. This is not acceptable. We are going to crack down on those gangs by banning their insignia from being worn in public and ensuring that gang membership is an aggravating factor during sentencing. Relief will come to our farming community, who, in recent years, have been made to feel they were public enemy number one. We recognise and value our farmers for what they
are: that is, stewards of their land, striving to protect the land for future generations. It is an enormous responsibility and one they do not take lightly. New Zealand has some of the best farmers in the world, whose farming practices are among the most efficient and innovative in the world, and developed here in New Zealand. By farmers. I have been humbled by the support shown by our rural communities for the new government, and, even more so, by their sense of relief. For all that, there are detractors out there who are finding the changes difficult to accept. These changes we are making were campaigned on and should be no surprise to anyone. Our 100-day plan shows we intend to move quickly to get New Zealand back on track. New Zealanders put their trust in National, Act and NZ First for a more prosperous future and we will not let them down.
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Holiday fire safety messaging DARREN CRAWFORD Fire and Emergency NZ Lithium-ion batteries are used in a lot of presents people will be receiving this Christmas, including e-scooters, e-bikes, toys, tools, and phones. Fire and Emergency are seeing an increase in the number of fires caused from charging devices with these types of batteries It’s important to take care when using these batteries as they are a fire risk when not stored, charged, used, or disposed of correctly. Always use the correct battery and charger for your device – check the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure they’re compatible. Make sure you charge batteries and devices on a hard, flat surface not under a pillow, on a bed or couch - they can overheat and cause a fire. If you notice anything unusual with your battery, stop using it straight away. Always ensure cords for Christmas lights are in good condition and aren’t frayed. Do not to put them under carpets or mats, as it can lead to damage and overheating. Candles for many are a Christmas tradition but people must be mindful of the risks they pose.
Always place candles and oil lamps firmly in a holder and on a stable, heat-resistant surface. Keep them away from anything that could catch fire, like curtains and clothing, and out of reach of children. Before going to bed or leaving the room, make sure all candles and oil lamps are put out.
Wildfire messaging While conditions may be looking green and low fire danger around the country, low risk doesn’t mean no risk, you should always check the conditions before having a fire or undertaking an activity which can cause heat or sparks. Ninety-eight per cent of wildfires which occur in New Zealand are human caused, so it’s important we take care when using fire or doing anything that can creates heat and sparks. We encourage the public to be careful with the use of fire, heat sources or any activities which can cause a spark that may start a wildfire. Even the simple act of mowing the lawn if dry and windy, the mover hitting a stone can be enough to start a wildfire. The time when generally the fire
risk is greatest is when it is windy and hot, consider whether you should be lighting a fire or doing activities that create heat and sparks. Before lighting a fire or undertaking an activity which could create heat or sparks, please always check first www.checkitsalright. nz Fire and Emergency has been working closely with partners such as the MetService to develop ways for making the fire danger information more accessible. On the MetService website and App you can check the current fire danger level and fire season for wherever you are in Aotearoa. In additional to rules Fire and Emergency NZ has for burning, landowners and councils may also have rules for using fire on the areas they own or administer, please make sure to follow these rules as well. As you are travelling around the country this holiday season please consider the location fire risk conditions by going to www.checkitsalright.nz, noting this risk and the requirements to avoid a wildfire can vary from where you live so don’t assume they will be the same. Help our fire firefighters have
an enjoyable holiday period this season take the two minutes to check the fire risk conditions www.checkitsalright.nz before having a fire or undertaking an activity which can produce heat or sparks. We don’t want to stop you having fun this holiday season but important you consider the fire risk conditions where you are, simple acts of have a bonfire, riding a motorbike or driving a vehicle through long grass can start a wildfire. If you do require a fire permit before having a fire, make sure to get one, and follow the conditions contained on the permit. Fireworks in some areas of the country are prohibited, this is because of the risk they pose in starting a wildfire which no one wants, you can easy check the rules around fireworks by going to www.checkitsalright.nz A reminder to farmers appreciating this is a busy time of year on the farm, if hay making, please do not rush the drying period between cutting and baling as this is critical in getting good feed but also reducing the risk of spontaneous combustion which can lead to loss of precious winter feed. For advice and guidance
please follow the Farm Safety Fire Risk and hay guide on the Fire and Emergency website. If you are planning to burn some waste this holiday season, please following the advice contain in our new how to ‘pile burn safely video’ which can be found on www.checkitsalright.nz If you haven’t already prepared your property for the wildfire season, this maybe you last chance because when there is smoke in the air it’s too late to prepare: Keep grass short and green around buildings and structures Prune large trees Remove vegetation from gutters and around wooden decks Remove highly flammable plants close to the house or other buildings Remove stacks of firewood from against buildings Dispose of dead sticks and leaves Make sure your rural address number is visible Ensure accessways are wide enough and clear of overhead branches so increase of needing a fire truck we can access your property. Check water supplies for firefighting they have water in them and can be easily accessed.
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FARMERS DIRECTORY
20th January Golden Bay Recreation Park A true country style, family friendly show with heaps to see and do. Get up close to the prize-winning animals. Cheer on the horse riders, choppers and shearers. Browse the stunning displays of baking, flowers, handcrafts, photography, art and craft in the display booth. $15 preshow tickets from NBS, $20 gate sales, Under 15 free.
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Agri Drone Specialists owner-operator Alex Wilkinson says the use of Agri drones offers landowners a cost-effective alternative to traditional spraying methods with many benefits. Photo: Supplied
Drones are the future of agriculture ELOISE MARTYN The use of drones in agriculture is on the rise in the Top of the South. Farmers, growers, and lifestylers are realising the benefits and improved efficiency agricultural drones can offer for tasks such as weed control, crop spraying, seeding, and roof maintenance. “A recent job I did really showed how beneficial the accuracy of Agri drones can be to a landowner,” Agri Drone Specialist owner-operator Alex Wilkinson explains. “We had a drone out spraying grey willows on a wetland that a chopper had sprayed for the last few years. A drone can spot spray at a similar speed as a chopper and with centimetre automated accuracy with a pre-built spay plan but without chewing through costly fuel so, it was far more cost-effective.” Alex, who has a background as a fixed-wing pilot, some years ago heard an interview on the radio
about wilding pines being sprayed with drones in central Otago, sparking an interest in him which he decided to investigate. “I had used drones for land surveying and data analysis so I started looking into drones for Agri use and straight away could see what could be possible,” he says. Any drone over 25 kilos falls into the Civil Aviation Authority Part 102 classification, then the application process becomes extensive and, with Alex’s drone being 100 kilos, it took around two years from first investigations, then jumping through the necessary processes and paperwork, to being in a position to be able to offer Agri drone services to landowners. “Agri drones offer highly effective weed spraying solutions, especially of invasive plants like gorse, old man’s beard, blackberry, thistles, and wilding pines. Drones can quickly cover steep terrain and inaccessible areas,” Alex explains.
Alex says that each farm and project is different and that’s where customised solutions deliver great outcomes for the landowner. “We usually map the area with a smaller drone and then build a spray plan on the computer, targeting the weeds with pinpoint accuracy but leaving any pasture or trees that don’t need to be sprayed,” Alex says. “A drone can cover large areas in a day, and since they work lower down than conventional aerial methods there is less spray drift, using less chemicals and leaving natives and pasture unaffected.” “I enjoy being outdoors and working with landowners to find cost-saving solutions, and being able to offer an effective alternative to traditional spraying methods,” Alex explains. “The future of drones is an exciting industry to be in. The technology is rapidly evolving and so are the possibilities of who it can benefit.” Advt.
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Robust community feedback on freshwater consultation Tasman’s farming community, sector groups and individuals have responded with strong feedback to the October- November, Mountains to Sea consultation Round 3. Spanning eight freshwater management units, the consultation led by Tasman Council will feed into the Land and Freshwater Plan change. “Contributors shared perspectives on critical freshwater issues, including maintaining healthy waterways and, the balance
between environmental and economic needs,” said Environmental Policy Manager, Barry Johnson. “Despite uncertainty around reform of the resource management system we believe the current work is essential for both the plan review and implementing the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management (NPS-FM). “The government’s 100-day plan has not hinted at changes to the
NPS-FM, due to the complexity of freshwater however, signs point to a continuation of the NPS-FM, farm plans, and requirements for setting environmental limits and outcomes. “We are committed to progress on this vital issue and will continue engaging with our community adapting our course as needed,” said Mr Johnson Results from the consultation and steps for further engagement are to be published in the new year.
That’s a wrap ‘Tis the season to make hay and while we’re not about to tell you how to do this, could we please ask the following: • Store your hay and baleage well above high water and flood prone areas, keep it high and dry. • Stash your used baleage and bale wrap well away from waterways and flood prone areas. Plasback are your go to for recycling this wrap.
Water conservation reminder With a dry summer predicted, and as a precaution to ensure our aquifer supplies last throughout summer and to avoid broader restrictions later in the season, water restrictions have already been introduced for some parts of the District. Even if water restrictions don’t apply to you right now, we’re asking residents in all areas of the District to conserve water as much as possible to ensure restrictions don’t need to be elevated or implemented in other parts of Tasman.
Whatever we can do now to save water will make a difference as things heat up through the season. There’s lots you can do at home and at work to reduce your water use. Check them out at tasman. govt.nz/water-saving-tips. Our general advice is: - Try to do one thing each day that will result in a saving of water - Never put water down the drain when there may be another use for it such as watering plants or cleaning
- Use soak or drip hoses - they’re more efficient than sprinklers - Choose drought-tolerant trees and plants for your garden - Collect rainwater to use on your garden Get the whole family involved in water conservation. We will be regularly monitoring the situation throughout the summer months. Look out for regular updates across all our channels.
Making Silage? The leachate generated during the silage fermentation process is extremely toxic to waterways. As a comparison it is on average 100 times stronger than raw sewerage and for that reason it is very important that your silage storage area is carefully sited and managed to avoid polluting nearby water sources. Please ensure there is no leachate runoff to surface or groundwater and that contaminated stormwater is managed so that it does not run to freshwater. There are Industry agreed Good Management Practices for Silage which we have links to on our Tasman District Council Rural Hub site, these provide further information on how to minimise risks to the environment.
For all things farming – go to Tasman Rural Hub
www.tasman.govt.nz/tasman-rural-hub-2
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January 2024
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NETW ING LIS
NETW ING
Smart forestry investments & affordable living?
Secluded serenity: A century-old charm
Seldom does an affordably priced parcel of land emerge in today’s market, let alone one free from restrictions with no covenants. The well-formed and spacious elevated skid site could be suitable for parking a bus, constructing a tiny home, or creating your dream within reasonable bounds. Looking over the Roding River, with swim holes, walking tracks and the great outdoors at your fingertips!
Spanning 7 hectares, the land is well-positioned to capture ample sunlight and features five paddocks, approximately 3.5 hectares of high-quality grazing land. The remaining portion hosts a productive orchard showcasing a diverse array of fruits and nuts, along with a regenerating bush block. The century-old home stands resilient and has recently undergone extensive renovations. The open-plan family room now boasts a new kitchen, complemented by high ceilings and warm timber floors. three generously sized double bedrooms, with the master featuring a beautifully renovated ensuite. Outside the home, discover established gardens, vegetable plots, majestic mature trees, and the expansive workshop/enclosed storage shed includes concrete floors, a mezzanine floor for additional storage, and potential basic accommodation suitable for woofers. Complementing this structure is a one-stand shearing shed, a hay barn, and a decommissioned cow shed. Don’t miss out—reach out now for additional information or to schedule a viewing.
LIS
0 Aniseed Valley Road, Aniseed Valley
Well, if we have your attention this opportunity only gets better, as the vast majority of the 21 Ha has been all replanted, thinned to 450 stems per Ha and pruned. So sit back and watch your investment flourish passively as nature takes its course.
Price By Negotiations Over $440,000 + GST (if any)
1544 Motueka River West Bank Road, Motueka Valley
Price By Negotiation Over $1,150,000
Licensed Agent REAA 2008
Toby Randall
Elisha Shefford
Toby Randall
Elisha Shefford
M 027 233 9170 toby.randall@harcourts.co.nz
M 021 354 742 elisha.shefford@harcourts.co.nz
M 027 233 9170 toby.randall@harcourts.co.nz
M 021 354 742 elisha.shefford@harcourts.co.nz
Licensed Agent REAA 2008
NETW ING LIS
PLATINUM BLUE LIMITED LICENSED AGENT REA 2008
Your Local Rural and Lifesty le Experts
We hope you had an awesome break spent with family and friends and were able to have some time to recharge the batteries.
Productive and progressive dairy farm 212 Ronga Road, Rai Valley
This extremely well appointed and productive dairy farm offers 125 Ha milking platform, currently producing an average of 170,000 MS per annum, with a further 40 Ha approx. of support or dry stock land. This is a real opportunity for a buyer to benefit from all the current owners hard work and capital improvements from the large concrete feed pad, upgraded 44 bale rotary shed including in bale auto teat spray and in shed feeding, upgraded weeping wall effluent system and huge storage pond, effluent irrigation as well as standard irrigation, upgraded lane ways, extensive re grassing and capital fert application. Accommodation is via 2 dwellings with the main being a large 4 bed, 2 bathroom family home that has also undergone some renovations. Price By Negotiations Over $5,150,000 + GST (if any)
Licensed Agent REAA 2008
We’re all back on board and ready for an exciting 2024 and look forward to working with you. If you have some real estate decisions to make over 2024/ 2025, we’d love to have a chat.
Toby Randall
TOBY RANDALL
M 027 233 9170 toby.randall@harcourts.co.nz
027 233 9170 | toby.randall@harcourts.co.nz
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Muller Station takes top prize
Muller Rams. The winner of the Westpac Osgro Seeds Marlborough Farmer of the Year 2023 is a high-country business that produces merino wool and meat, stud rams and Angus and Angus Charolais cross cattle. Muller Station, owned and run by Steve and Mary Satterthwaite, together with their daughter Alice and son Ben, have won the prestigious title in the latest competition. The Marlborough Farmer of the Year competition for 2023 attracted excellent entrants and was highly competitive, says Simon Harvey, competition chair. Muller Station won due to a combination of top financial performance from a very productive sheep and beef flock, careful land management and good governance, said Simon.
“Their attention to appropriate genetics has shaped a high-producing Merino, suited to their environment and top commercial cattle herd.” “One of the key strengths of the business is that all members of the family are actively involved in running the farming operation.” “The Satterthwaite’s utilise offfarm finishing, protecting capital stock performance. They have a grazing management plan to suit both the stock while protecting their fragile environment.” Muller Station is one of the largest in Marlborough – covering 38,860 hectares at the head of the Awatere Valley, alongside Molesworth. The Station runs Merino ewes, with each ewe clipping an impressive 6.3 kilograms of 19-micron wool, on average.
Steve Satterthwaite. Almost 70% of the wool is sold on contract to outdoor and leisurewear clothing companies, including Icebreaker, DTI and others. The family have run a Merino Stud since 2005. Steve Satterthwaite is an advocate for wilding conifer control
and has been instrumental in bringing policy makers to the back-country to see the environmental issues. Steve’s wife Mary is the driver of the Station being as self-sufficient as possible. She classes the wool clip and looks after all the accounting. Alice and Ben are both closely involved with the management of the property and presented the farm information during the judging. A field day at the Station will be held in Autumn 2024 and will be an amazing trip to the back-country of Marlborough. Media all welcome and there are accommodation options in the Awatere Valley. Muller Station has won a prize package including a significant cash prize, and in-kind prizes
supported by our fantastic local sponsors of the competition. Quote from Westpac – “Westpac are delighted to sponsor such a prestigious competition in Marlborough. Congratulations to the Satterthwaite family for winning this year. The Westpac team are looking forward to joining the field day.” Quote from Osgro Seed Services – “Osgro Seeds would like to congratulate all entrants in this year’s MFOTY competition. The competition represents farming excellence in our region which aligns strongly with Osgro Seeds values. All 2023 entrants are active clients of Osgro Seed Services. Congratulations to Muller station and the Satterthwaite family in winning this years competition.”
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563 Main Road Stoke, Stoke, Nelson 03 548 5900
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January 2024
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January 2024
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FARM MACHINERY & REPAIRS LTD Quality Used Tractors and Machinery
Massey Ferguson 5713 prem model Dyna 6, 4 remotes 3300 hours prof model loader. Good rubber. 5 star screen fitted - $95,000
Massey Ferguson 245 power steering good rubber. Tidy order. New seat and serviced $10,500
John Deere 4x4 with loader, very good order $22,500
Welger B435 Master Baler, farmer owned. - $25,000
Bucktown 1.8m h d mulcher hy side shift like new good hammer flails - $6,750
Yeoman Chisle plough great order and excellant for tuff country - $2,400
Celli Pioneer 140 spike rotor original spikes excellent condition - $14,000
Hustler SL 700 2 bale feeder tidy order- $11,500
Fieldmaster m60 4 blades fling tips and roller, very tidy mower. Also have similar m70 - $3,650
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Iseki 2160 22hp hydro in tidy order - $4,950
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Ford New Holland 7840 SLE and Pearson loader - $19,500
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Trimax 1.8 Vineyard Mower, tidy order - $3,000
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Fiat 780 4x4 and loader - $6,500
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Glaber 9 ft topping mower, nearly new - $7,850
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Iseki 6500 and loader - $12,500
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John Deere 1640 4x4 and loader - $17,500
Fieldmaster 275 topping mower, all serviced, good condition - $4,950
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Giltrap 3pl log splitter - $2,250
Hydralada double in-row vine trimmer. Fully serviced with joy stick - coming in
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Heavy duty 7ft back blade hy rams to angle and tilt - $6,500
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Pallet forks front uro and rear - from $500
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Hustler front fork lift suit 135 MF - $2,000
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Austin 3m Heavy Duty Cambridge Roller $5,500
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Rata vineyard cultivator crumbler range of sizes available
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Chrisgrow 165m vineyard mower rear roller coming in
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ERO Doulble inrow vine trimmer Being serviced and ready soon
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Silvan 600l herbicide sprayer electric controls $5,000
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Celli Tiger 190 Rotary hoe new blade 3m wide cage roller - $9,500
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McHale 991c bale wrapper electronic coming in
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Fieldmaster 1.8 vineyard mower side delivery very good condition
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Celli Pioneer 170 Spike Rotar very good condition - $12,500
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Kvernland TLA 6 metre cultivator crumbler $8,500
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Silvan 600L sprayer PTO shaft plus reel & gun -
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Maxam 3300 hay mower services and ready to go great topping mower
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Tasman
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January 2024
19
TASMAN A New Year, a new club for you ELOISE MARTYN Over the past two months, the Tasman Valley Young Farmers Club has been busy participating in various social and community events. A ‘Guess the pip fruit pests and diseases’ competition at the Nelson A&P Show was a highlight for all. Newly appointed group chairperson Amelia Marsden will be attending the Golden Bay A&P show where, alongside her job as a core nutrient specialist for Balance Agir-Nutrients, she will be wearing her Young Farmers hat to network with other young farmers and rowers. Near the end of 2023, the Tasman Valley Young Farmers Club held their annual general meeting which saw
Tasman Valley Young Farmer board Micheal Gibbs, Rachel Lowe and Zach Donovan. Photo: Supplied Amelia Marsden step into the chairperson position, previously filled by Blair Anglesey. Michael Gibbs was re-elected into the treasurer role as was Rachel Lowe in the club secretary position. Zach Donovan took the Junior vice chairperson position and all in the club were ex-
cited to have this spot filled. The group says that they are planning to host a surprise large-scale event later in the year. “We can’t tell you all the details just yet, but we are excited and once we have a few final things sorted we will be able to invite you all,” club secretary Rachel Lowe
smiles. Rachel says that it’s a new year which is the perfect time to do something like join a new club. Tasman Valley Young Farmers welcome anyone aged 16-31 years old with a passion for the outdoors and primary industries to come and meet them, have a meal and a chat and see what the group has to offer you. “It can be really scary going to a new place with new people, but we are friendly and will welcome you, so come along,” Rachel says. Those interested in connecting can either just turn up to the Brightwater Bar & Bistro, on Wed 10th Jan at 7pm or connect through their Facebook Page under ‘Tasman Valley Young Farmers’.
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Local podcast gains international audience BARBARA STUART “That’s my granddaughter,” smiles Diane Higgins of Brightwater. At the recent national conference of Rural Women NZ in Christchurch, her granddaughter, Emma Higgins, was congratulated on the ‘Black heels and Tractor wheels’ podcast reaching an international audience and for her work on the national board. Three women of substance from our the local Higgins family attended the event. Diane who is well known
for her provincial role and the Brightwater Branch has championed both her daughter-in-law Sue, and granddaughter Emma. Both women have represented region three and the South Island on the Rural Women NZ national board. The Black Heels and Tractor Wheels Podcast showcases stories from a range of women around New Zealand. Emma Higgins, along with fellow national board member Claire Williamson, join a whole raft of incredible kiwi women to discuss topics ranging from starting
Diane Higgins, Emma Higgins and Sue Higgins at the RWNZ National Conference. Photo: Barbara Stuart. your own business, navigating career and university changes, building confidence, and getting back to work with young children.
The podcasts are very popular and now reach an overseas following. ruralwomennz.nz/blackheels-and-tractor-wheels/
Caring for our community We are here to support you and your family following the death of a loved one, with compassion and understanding.
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20
January 2024
Farming TOP SOUTH
West Coast
MONTHLY
WEST COAST Commonsense for rural producers from this National-led coalition government MAUREEN PUGH MP for Westcoast I am noticing a spring in the step of primary producers lately, and it’s great! There is hope. At last, this part of New Zealand’s hard-working productive sector is being recognised for the contribution it makes to the economy, and so to the well-being of every New Zealander. The new National-led Government has promised to deliver we’re working hard to get rid of some onerous legislation in our first 100 days and some of it will be gone by Christmas. National’s Getting Back to Farming package released in April this year made 19 changes to rules and regulations. The changes will help farmers to get ahead with earning the income on which their livelihoods, the kiwi economy, and New Zealanders’ standard of living, depend. National is committed to this country’s climate change goals – we are fully aware that shutting down the world’s most carbon efficient farmers only send production to less efficient farms overseas and more than likely will raise global emissions. The reality is good farmers look after their land and look after their animals, so their inherent good practice makes them very aware of caring for their environment. I have yet to meet a farmer who is not conscious of their environmental responsibilities and this new Government is all about using targeted rules with clear environmental
limits, so farmers can plan ahead, invest, and work with confidence. Naturally enough, in these first few weeks of a new Parliament, I get asked a lot of questions about the Coalition Government. I can assure you that all three Coalition partners are heading in the same direction on delivering smarter rules for the future, super-charging the rural economy and getting Wellington out of farming. Sometimes, different parties may have different ways of achieving the same end goal, but there is real commitment to move forward in “Getting Back to Farming”. Much of the feedback I receive is the huge amount of paperwork that farmers continually face. You will be pleased to know that we will introduce a two-for-one rule for the next three years; that is, for every new regulation that either central or local government wants to introduce on the rural sector, they must remove two rules. Along with doing away with the ute tax and doubling the Recognised Seasonal Employer worker cap over five years to 38,000 the Government will also replace Three Waters with Local Water Done Well which will restore council ownership and control of water assets whilst ensuring that water services are financially sustainable. Last year agricultural exports totalled $41 billion and were 63 per cent of our exports. At last there is recognition for, and some good commonsense over, rules and regulations for this important productive sector.
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Surfing for Farmers at Cobden Breakwater. Photo: Supplied.
Surfing for Farmers kicks off again BARBARA STUART The successful Surfing for Farmers group kicks off again at Kahuna Board Riders Club, Cobden breakwater between 5.30-8.00pm on Wednesday 18th January. “Surfing is a great de-stressor, about twenty surfers turn up with their families each week just to get off-farm and catch up with likeminded farmer friends,” says farmer Paul Clement. The Surfing for Farmers network recognizes the impor-
tance of providing an outlet that liberates individuals from the daily grind and overwhelming to-do lists. By engaging in surfing activities, farmers and growers gain a renewed perspective and prioritise their own self-care. This is the second year Paul and his wife Abby have facilitated the group. Originally from Canterbury the couple purchased their Hokitika farm three years ago. “When I heard about Surfing for Farmers, I contacted the national organisation and
asked why there’s nothing on the Westcoast and landed the job.” Paul and Abby milk two hundred jersey cows therefore understand the fiscal pressures farmers face this season. “We aim to make Wednesday evening a social event and light up the barbecue. Families are welcome to come along and watch the surfing and catch up with a few beers for the grownups.” “We also want to acknowledge our funders, a group of local business legends who help make this happen.”
Farming TOP SOUTH
January 2024
Marlborough
MONTHLY
21
marlborough Farmer makes positive environmental impact ANDREW RITCHIE Hands-on farmer Greg Coppell recycles broken, chemically treated grape posts into fence posts, saving them from going to landfill. Greg and his family farm a sheep and beef unit near St Arnaud. His requirement for economical fencing materials led him to set up Repost, a company that repurposes broken grape posts for fencing in the agricultural industry. Beginning in 2021, he estimates the company
has intercepted over half a million posts which would otherwise have gone to landfill. The company recently won the Wine Industry Award at the Cawthron Marlborough Environment Awards. Stockpiles of CCA treated, broken posts are a problem for the wine industry since they cannot be disposed of through burning. Greg estimates the recycled posts will be good for a minimum of 25 years, particularly since no part of them has been
in the ground whilst in use in the vineyard. Eighty percent of the landfill costs to the vineyard owner is saved and the posts are resold at a third of the cost of a brandnew fence post. Educating the consumer to utilise a second-hand product that is as good as new is an ongoing mission. Repost can deliver nationwide and claim to still remain competitively priced. Developing the process has not been without its challenges, obtaining labour be-
ing one of the most difficult. Joining the RSE scheme has been a saving grace. The inconsistent methods used by vineyards to support the trellis systems has also been a challenge since all the nails or plastic clips must be removed from the posts. The company is now on its sixth generation of clip removal machines but believe they now have an effective solution. The machine is built on a car trailer for ease of transportation around the district.
Marcus Pickens from Wine Marlborough praised Repost for their efforts to help the environment by minimising waste and helping the wine industry to promote resilience with their goal of zero waste by 2050.
Greg Coppell explains the working of his post processor. Photo: Andrew Ritchie.
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22
January 2024
Farming TOP SOUTH
Livestock
MONTHLY
livestock Alliance Group investing in eating quality Sale Date: Sale Number: Movement compared with sale:
30/11/2023 C22 15/11/2023
Next South Island Sale Date:
14/12/2023
87%
↓12c
0.6120
SOLD
NZD/USD
South Is. SWI
Clean cents kg
South Island Strong Wool Indicator (SWI) 400 380 360 340 320 300 280 260 240 220 200
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
2021-22
Crossbred Fleece BEST STYLE GOOD STYLE AVERAGE STYLE POOR STYLE
↓ 1% ↓ 2% ↓ 2% ↓ 2%
$3.90 $3.57 $3.13 $2.55
Crossbred Second Shear 50-100mm Length - GOOD STYLE 50-100mm Length - AVERAGE STYLE 50-100mm Length - POOR STYLE
↓ 3% ↓ 3% ↓ 4%
$3.31 $3.00 $2.55
Crossbred Oddments
↓ 7%
$1.15
after
Avg Price Kg Cln
Jan 2022-23
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
2023-24
Mid-Micron Hbd Fleece (28 mic) Hbd Hog (23 Mic)
$4.24 $9.65
Merino Merino Fleece (16 mic) Best Style Merino Fleece (16 mic) Avg Style Merino Fleece (18 mic) Best Style Merino Fleece (18 mic) Avg Style Merino Fleece (20 mic)
$22.60 $21.30 $17.50 $17.10 $14.20
NC = No Change N/A = Not Available
The predominantly crossbred offering saw values especially for the shorter types further correct themselves in the wake of the North Island second shear summer shorn wools due to come forward. A tail end seasonal offering of finer micron wools attracted surprisingly strong interest hesitant sales globally for similar styles Dave Burridge, South Island Auction Manager
Alliance Group has partnered with Australian Agtech solutions provider MEQ to deploy lamb and beef probes powered by sophisticated machine learning and artificial intelligence to measure the Intramuscular Fat (IMF) levels in lamb and marbling percentages in beef. IMF and ageing are the two largest contributors to the sensory experience when eating quality meat and the technology provides a real-time view of the eating quality of the meat produced across our plant network. The technology uses a combination of spectral analysis and artificial intelligence to accurately measure IMF in a carcass at the beginning of processing to capture a ‘fingerprint’ within a loin muscle. This will provide the co-operative with objective measurable data to give farmers visibility about the quality of the meat they are supplying. Farmers will then be able to
Probe machine that can measure the Intramuscular Fat Levels in lamb and marbling percentages in beef. Photo: Alliance Group. make informed decisions about breeding programmes and feed, which leads to more sustainable livestock management. The technology will also enable Alliance to build up and scale its premium programmes, which is a growing part of its business, and allow them to further differ-
entiate its product offering to target consumers. The implementation of the probes into Alliance plants has started and is due for completion in April/May 2024. Alliance anticipates being in a position to share the data with farmers later next year.
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Farming TOP SOUTH
January 2024
Fertilizer
MONTHLY
23
fertilizer Break through time for pastoral farming
The new administration appears to be lightening up on farming’s environmental constraints already in place and those planned. In our view that’s welcome and essential, not because farming is squeaky clean but because the models on which regulation is developed have at their base a falsehood. Current models are based on the premise that pastoral farming is both a net carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide emitter with farmers being unfairly penalised. Pastoral farming by nature is carbon positive, i.e., carbon is being continuously sequestered. It is only through the excessive use of synthetic nitrogen that pastoral soils lose carbon. With the restrictions already in place along with many farmers implementing systems that are non-reliant on it, carbon levels will steadily increase. The argument that our soils at around 5% carbon are carbon rich and there’s no room to store more ignores the fact that soils steadily build over time, it’s a natural and largely unstoppable process. A simple example is the path to clotheslines. If the edges are not regularly trimmed the path becomes covered. It’s often argued that farming emissions will decline as fewer animals are able to be carried due to the less nitrogen being applied. It does not follow that lowering fertiliser nitrogen inputs leads to less total growth, with those implementing soil fertility programmes that are non-reliant on fertiliser nitrogen discovering that annual pasture production steadily lifts, and when well managed so too does total farm output. These farms also sequester more carbon, and carbon in the form of organic matter is the filter that ensures groundwater is not contaminated with excess nitrates or anything else harmful. Another argument that requires
dispelling is that nitrogen leaches regardless of source. Nitrogen is an essential growth element and if not provided artificially must be provided naturally, primarily by clover. During winter clovers are largely inactive. As soil conditions warm and sunlight hours increase in spring grasses respond in kind, until the pool of plant available nitrogen depletes. This happens at the same time soil temperature promotes seed head development, providing the ideal conditions for strong clover growth. In a well-managed sward clovers fix sufficient nitrogen to replace that used by grasses. It’s a highly efficient system that ensures very little is lost in the form of nitrate to groundwater. Cow urine is often cited as a problem as the nitrogen contained in it is in the form of urea and large amounts are deposited in small areas. But not all urine is equal. Short leafy grass-dominant pasture to which synthetic nitrogen is regularly applied is high in nitrogen and animals rapidly excrete it to reduce undue pressure on kidney and liver. Contrast this to the urine of animals grazing mature clover dominant swards. This feed contains less nitrogen and more full protein, and the urine of these animals is significantly different. Our requirement for protein is the primary reason people eat meat and consume dairy products. Pastoral farming is an energy conversion process whereby energy in the form of sunlight is, through the process of photosynthesis, converted to food. Plants in the rapid growth phase are high in nitrate which is steadily converted to full protein as the plant reaches maturity. Understanding when best to graze pasture comes with knowledge learned over time through observation. The understanding required to make the changes is readily learned and the transition to a more rewarding system can be comfortably made within twelve months with autumn the best time to implement the changes.
If edges are not regularly trimmed paths become covered. Photo: Supplied.
Do you have some rural news? Phone us on 548 5900 Farming TOP SOUTH
MONTHLY
www.hogarths.co.nz
24
January 2024
Farming TOP SOUTH
Horticulture
MONTHLY
horticulture Planning crucial to surviving El Nino drought Rural Support Trust El Nino has arrived in New Zealand and its impacts, including drought, are likely to become stronger and last into 2024. Every El Nino is different and unstoppable but with advanced warning and well-planned preparations, growers and their crops can get through. El Nino weather patterns typically occur every three to seven years, usually peaking during late spring or early summer and then weakening the following year. Under a ‘normal’ El Nino, summer is likely to bring stronger or more frequent westerly winds, drier conditions in the east and more rain in the west. What is different this time is that New Zealand’s weather will be affected by two weather patterns, one in the Pacific and one in the Indian Ocean. This combination brought substantial and wide-spread drought to New Zealand
in 2019 and 2020. The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) have prepared a helpful resource that explains El Nino and the predicted weather patterns this summer, this can be found on the MPI website here. New Zealand growers and orchardists are facing what may be a tough growing season and HortNZ urges you to be prepared. It’s important to plan and act early, and then review and revise your plan along the way. Think about the outcomes you want to achieve and set specific dates for making key decisions depending on financial, weather, soil, moisture, and crop conditions at those times. Active monitoring enables horticultural strategies to be adjusted to manage drought conditions effectively, optimize water use, maintain crop health, and ensure long-term sustainability. Monitor the daily weather forecasts, seasonal
forecasts, extreme weather and fire warnings. Using on-farm weather stations will allow you to closely monitor the localised weather conditions and tailor your strategy to that. Have a robust and realistic budget and check it frequently to manage financial impacts of reduced crop yields or increased costs associated with drought conditions. HortNZ recommends that you undertake water budgeting to plan for water restrictions and use irrigation water as efficiently as possible. Make sure you consider your irrigation output as well as all water inputs such as rainfall, surface water and sub-surface water. Regularly check your irrigation systems to ensure they are well maintained, free of leaks and optimised for economical water use. Watering plants during the coolest part of the day will minimise water losses due to evaporation.
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RSE cap increase opportunities NADINE TUNLEY Following Cyclone Gabrielle, many of the Pasifika workers in the Hawke’s Bay put on their gumboots and mucked in on recovery efforts. Employed in the area under the Recognised Seasonal Employer scheme (RSE), this demonstrated their role in the community goes well beyond an employment programme. Instead, after over a decade of implementation, the RSE scheme has become a vital part of our horticulture industry and RSE employees are part of their communities. Originally designed as a way of supporting Pasifika workers to earn sufficient wages to support families back at home, RSE has developed into enduring partnerships between individual villages and employers. Skills are exchanged and employees return year after year. New Zealand producers know that to get the best possible workforce they must invest in them – targeted recruitment, purpose-built accommodation, and upskilling. The scheme has been running since 2007 and there have only been minor policy updates since then. In the last decade, the number of employees per year has doubled, with a third of that happening in the last three years. There is the potential for the scheme to be updated to meet the changing needs of New Zealand growers, employees and our Pacific partners. HortNZ is encouraged by the new government’s promise to increase the number of places available through the scheme. There is an unmet demand from growers and more people want to come from the Pacific, particularly countries that have expressed an interest in increasing their numbers. And this can be done in a way that facilitates increasing wellbeing in the home countries as well as here. This is a chance to be proactive
about sharing the scheme rather than ad hoc tinkering in response to bad performers. The potential in the scheme is in increased flexibility. During Covid and the following years, workers often felt frustrated by shorter work seasons as late starts, due to bureaucracy, were not reflected in later finishers. We have seen examples of workers sitting ready to go in their home country but held up for reasons outside employer and employee control. It does not respect the dignity of the person if they are expected to drop everything and go on the whim of when paperwork comes through. The International Labour Organisation and the World Bank recognise the benefits of labour mobility. And recognise New Zealand as one of the leading schemes - we do however have areas that we need to improve on. Unfortunately, in the Pacific, it is easy for us to be lumped into the same bucket as other destinations when addressing issues of labour exploitation. However, New Zealand can and should be the destination of choice given there is a broader understanding of cultural acceptance and Pacific communities are able to support their families while they are here. This is an area that sets the RSE scheme apart from other labour mobility schemes – the concept of ‘whanaungatanga’ is encouraged by many of our growers that bring workers from the Pacific sending countries. Stakeholders are ready to go on this. The promised RSE policy review stalled with government back in April but now is the chance to get things happening before the next significant picking season. HortNZ has spent time in the Pacific – both on the recent Foreign Minister’s delegation to the Pacific which I attended
in April, and involvement in last week’s Pacific Labour Mobility Annual Meeting where for the first time an Employer Forum was held, enabling employers to hear from the Pacific and key partners their aspirations and voice our commitment to supporting RSE workers and Pacific sending countries. New Zealand growers understand that this is a twoway talanoa. We need to look beyond the scheme to the potential for how this impacts the employees’ lives, their communities and their nations. RSE is seen as an important part of how the Pacific nations view New Zealand. But it is for the government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to drive that relationship. Without government leadership we risk the few bad employers tarnishing our relationship. The bad media this time last year on the scheme, largely driven by domestic unions not connected with Pacific nations, affected the ability for growers and employees to see positive action to increase the mana of the scheme. Depicting RSE employees as merely cogs in the machine does not give them the respect they deserve or reflect the partnership role they have in growing the horticulture sector. I am optimistic about the opportunity for a RSE reset. Together with government, we can optimise the ability of RSE employees to transfer skills they learn here to enhance their livelihoods and support community developments back in their home countries. Regular and reliable scheme opportunities will provide employees with the dignity of planning around this opportunity, and for their home country governments to put in place suitable schemes so that they maximise the opportunities when the employees return home.
Farming TOP SOUTH
local
January 2024
Forestry
MONTHLY
25
forestryupdate
Farmers need to see the trees for the wood ELOISE MARTYN
after planting and can profor carbon revenue. There gins, or with long-lived before is still not suited vide excellent returns out to will also be areas that are species like redwoods, now,” Sam says. age 16 for radiata pine under more suited to native tree in the right areas. But “Mixed land-use can inFarmers need to change their species.” the advice from Sam is crease the resilience of mindset and consider the ‘Carbon Averaging’. Under Native trees are a great op- to almost always target a your property, as well as potential of forestry as part this accounting rule, there is tion for permanent ripari- timber crop with carbon improve the aesthetics, of a mixed land-use strategy. no liability at harvest providan and aesthetic planting. as a bonus. water quality, and biodiThat’s the opinion of PF Ol- ed the forest is replanted. Planning these areas to meet “The ETS is not a silver versity in your environsen’s Richmond-based Sam Sam recommends that farmthe ETS requirements, he bullet; land that was not ment, it’s really worth Nuske, who says: “Forestry ers exploring forestry as part of mixed land-use should says meaning farmers can suited for exotic forestry exploring.” and farming are often viewed at least get some carbon or as rivals in New Zealand, seek forestry advice to optiPlease meaning check your carefully and approve it orand submit corrections by the Final Proof return Alterations mise farm profitability economic on top deadline. of someproof landowners the environmental benefits stubbornly persist with one resilience. Forestry assets, ve or submit changes to your ad within the ATOL system at a time that suits you. Just follow the link he says, can also help with such as property aesthetics, or the other. o view “Farmers, your ad, then click the APPROVE or CORRECTIONS button right from there - no new emails required! stock shelter, improved walandowners and family succession planning, providing valuable income ter quality, biodiversity, and rural advisors need to see the O LTD (RMD) publishing 06/24/21 booked size CSQ QUART VE soil and erosion protection. opportunities that forestry and assets that can be easily (100%) publication Adv Supp NEM dimensions 12.3X12.4, width by height Sam says hecms doesn’t support can provide as part of mixed separated from the land valIndependent SQUARE proofed 9/06/2021 ue. large-scale 12:22:08 permanentPM pine land-use,” he says. section CUSTOM forestry converting to naSam says that The NZ Emis- “I’m encouraging landownLog Buyers tives purely for financial insion Trading Scheme (ETS) ers to be bold in their thinkvestment. has changed the game for ing when considering forestForest Managers ry. Don’t muck around with a “Converting to natives just howPlease valuable forestry can becarefully and approve it or submit corrections by the Final Proof Alterations check your proof deadline. few hectares here and there. for financial investment will for farmers. Harvesting an now approve or submit changes to your ad within the ATOL system at a Richmond-based time that suits you. Just follow Sam the link Identify the least productive leave you very exposed to “Farmers can now achieve proof email to view your ad, then click the APPROVE or CORRECTIONS button right from no new emails required! Nuske, withthere his -dog Alfie, policy changes and carbon annual returns significantly 20-30% of your farm, so you is encouraging farmers OLSEN & CO LTD (RMD) publishing 06/24/21 booked size CSQ QUART VE Marketing & price movement. Iwi and higher from forestry than can spread costs such as maand landowners explorecms width by height H-8994297AA (100%) publication Adv Supp NEM dimensions to 12.3X12.4, landowners with a commitsheep and beef on less pro- chinery transportation and Establishment valuable proofed opportunities section CUSTOM SQUARE 9/06/2021 12:22:08 PM ment to land custodianship ductive parts of their farm, infrastructure construction,” mixed land use can offer. are exceptions who can manas well as the harvest reve- Sam says. Photo: Supplied. “There may be parts of your age this transition.” nue,” he says. Cashflow from carbon is farm that are less accessible eas are probably more suited Permanent exotics have a positive as early as four years for harvesting, and these ar- to a longer rotation species place along riparian marstuartforestry@outlook.co.nz
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26
January 2024
Farming TOP SOUTH
Motoring
MONTHLY
motoring Free at last! KEN STRUNGNELL
of the fruit. Disappointing is the restricted colour palette available with only white, greys, black, orange and the hero colour Luxe Yellow. While more of a gold hue it is the pick or at least mine as blue is not available! Of all the ute based SUV’s the Ranger is most powerful and best equipped. Toyota’s Fortuna is smaller and only runs the now ubiquitous 2.8l turbo-diesel 4 in Hilux Prado Fortuna and now Landcruiser 70 series, though the V8 is still available in the Cruiser. Mitsubishi have until the release next year of the twin turbo diesel the Pajero Sport while the KUX from Isuzu is looking long in the tooth, despite an upgrade 4 years ago. I will drive both the top spec Platinum V6 and the base ‘Bi Turbo’ Sport over the Christmas break and so will be able to compare to my signwritten press Wildtrac. The 20-inch alloys that will fit both ATs and MS tyres, look well
And so, this festive season Saint Nicola freed the ute and their ICE friends from the bond imposed by the evil tax witch! “No more” Saint Nicola cried, “should our rural sector be shackled to taxes to which there is no alternative. And yes, I’ll do more in the next 100 days to continue to make you the engine room of our country, free to make your own choices on how to run your farms!” I spoke to several car dealers over the last few weeks who report great EV and hybrid sales, with orders for new Utes and SUVs for delivery in 2024. I received some comments on last months column, telling me I was wrong about battery weight as most Hybrids and EV’s have better mass distribution so travel better. That is true in some vehicles, but batteries still weigh up to ½ tonne compared to 100kg max for liquid fuel. I was also ques-
tioned as to why I claimed Lithium batteries are more dangerous in a fire. Simply put they will even burn underwater, so are almost impossible to put out. Petrol or diesel can be smothered or cooled to extinguish. And there are no plans for end-of-life batteries in NZ. I thought I’d finish the year with a look at Ford’s Everest. Available in three models with two engine options it will benefit from the banishment of the ‘evil tax’ meaning the base Trend 2 litre Bi-Turbo 154kW/599Nm, will retail at $74,990 the 3 litre V6 184kW/600Nm Platinum start at $89,990 But it is the special edition V6 turbo diesel Wildtrac that I wanted to focus on for this edition. Sharing a name with the most popular private buyers Ranger, the Everest Wildtrac is very well equipped and comes with both a hefty discount at $84,490 over the Platinum Everest but also most
Suzuki LT-A400F $ +gst
Suzuki LT-A500* $ +gst
Yamaha Wolverine x2 850cc $ +gst
Yamaha Viking 700cc $ +gst
Suzuki LT-A750XP* $ +gst
18,260
Suzuki DR200SE** $ +gst
Yamaha YFM700 Kodiak $ +gst
Yamaha YFM450 Kodiak $ +gst
Suzuki LT-Z50*** $ +gst
Suzuki DR-Z125**** $ +gst
Yamaha AG200 $ +gst
Yamaha AG125 $ +gst
13,521
3,477
16,087
6,086
3,825
*1/3 deposit upfront, 1/3 in 12 months, 1/3 in 24 months, 7.99% interest. **No deposit, 12 months to pay, 4.99% interest. ***$200 shop vouchers - Suzuki Fest Promotion. ****$500 shop vouchers - Suzuki Fest Promotion.
Clean, white showroom Wildtrak Everest. proportioned and with the coil suspension all round provide a better ride than it’s sibling pick up. Of greater moment is the standard inclusion of both surround cameras visible on the 12-inch portrait mounted infotainment screen and also the transmission option of 4A. This means you can leave it in 4WD all the time, working like most permanent systems by leaving the centre diff open. Off-road then the Everest is impressive and very composed. Onroad performance shows the benefits of the big SUV’s suspension and the copious torque.
26,781
17,477
6,086
Towing - the Everest has few peers in the SUV range and none from the ute based wagons listed above, with a rate of 3500kg braked. Fitted standard with the towbar is a trailer controller in front of the driver to increase or decrease trailer braking effort. In practice it works really well. Now everyone knows what I want for Christmas, it is time to wish readers and their families a wonderful festive season. Drive safely. As a final note our Editor Barbara Stuart is stepping down from the paper. I wish her all the best for her family and future endeavours.
23,389
13,912
4,607
Yamaha Farm Finance available on all above bikes. Zero Deposit, Zero Repayments for 12 months at a 1.95% p.a fixed rate. Terms and conditions apply.
Specialists in off road and road bikes, ATV’s and ROV’s. We are your number one stop for riders everywhere. We stock the best motorcycle gear, parts and accessories at the best price.
239 High Street, Motueka 03 528 9992 murraythornmotorcycles.nz
Farming TOP SOUTH
January 2024
Noticeboard
MONTHLY
Rural Community Noticeboard DTL Business by the Numbers - Nelson
Why Attend? Step through the process of preparing and monitoring accurate farm budgets to stay on top of farm finances. Have confidence in achieving longer-term goals such as self-employment or growing your farming business. 3 part-days in-person. • Build a positive and profitable financial plan for going forward • Learn alongside other farmers and from farmers (Dairy Training tutors are farmers) • Investigate future options for big-picture goals like self-employment or growing your share milking or farming business • Communicate with your bank and accountant to get the support and understanding you need • Feel comfortable in a supportive, interactive, and user-friendly learning environment for all levels • Balance learning with other commitments • Qualify with the Business by the Numbers credential Contact Laura Littlejohn / admin@dairytraining.co.nz / 0800 467 768
The Rural Noticeboard is for local not-f or-profit community groups and organisations to advertise community events or projects that will be of interest to our 35,000 rural readers over the top of the south. Thanks to the team at Tasman Honda for making this noticeboard possible. If you have an up-and-coming project or event that you wish to place on this noticeboard, please contact eloise@t opsouthmedia.co.nz
Old4New Lifejacket Upgrade
Get practical techniques and confidence to manage the numbers in an agribusiness. 7 Feb 2024 Workshop 10am-2.30pm In Nelson
27
– Blenheim and Nelson
Event by Coastguard Old4New g and fitget your family into well-fittin Trade in your old lifejackets and kets. for-purpose Hutchwilco lifejac DNESDAY, ors Blenheim, Mayfield on WE Come down to Marine & Outdo discounts for trade in your old lifejackets 10 January from 9am - 3pm to s with Coastguard Old4New. on brand new Hutchwilco one AY, 29 Boat Ramp, Nelson on MOND Come down to Akerston Street discounts on de in your old lifejackets for January from 8am - 3pm to tra with Coastguard Old4New. brand new Hutchwilco ones tdoors are Our mates at Boating and Ou N? VA E TH TO IT KE MA N’T CA there’s ir stores on selected dates, so the in ls dea ew 4N Old the g honorin ily sorted for summer! no excuse not to get your fam ns. Full range available at van locatio *Please note: Limited lifejacket Outdoors stores. range available at Boating & www.old4new.nz T WEAR IT. Your lifejacket. Your lifeline. JUS
If you’re aged 16 – 31 with a passion for the outdoors and primary industrie s, then come and join us for a meal and social chat and see what Tasman Vall ey Young Farmers can offer you for 202 4. Brightwater Bar & Bistro Wed 10th Jan at 7 pm Just turn up or connect through our FB page: Tasman Valley Young Farm ers’ We would love to meet you.
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28
January 2024
Farming TOP SOUTH
Advert
FILCO
MONTHLY
CALL US NOW! 03 547 2420
LET US HELP 2024 BE A GREAT YEAR FOR YOU!
Great on farm servicing, huge range of workhorses to suit every need, high quality for less down time, staff that know! AS ALWAYS FAIR PRICES ACROSS THE BOARD! LIMITED STOCK!
AG125
$4,434
Specialised farm bike a reliable little worker
PW50 $2,899
excl
TTR50 $2,899
excl
WOLVERINE X2 UTE
excl
Kodiak 450
$15,086
Kodiak 700
$17,477
Power steering, 4WD
excl
Powerful 850cc, 4WD, larger tip deck, high profile suspension.
Kodiak 450
Non power steering (blue)
$13,912
$26,346
+gst
excl
Power steering, 4WD
THE KAWASAKI KLX RANGE SPECIALS FINISH SOON SO BEAT THE PRICE RISE! KL250 STOCKMAN
KLX110
Kawasaki KX 250X 1 only 2023 model
A fond farewell to this top farm bike, limited stock so be quick. Once they’re gone, no more!
Was $4,795
NOW $3,995
excl
excl
$
SUPER SPECIAL
11,995 excl
MULE PRO MX
RELIABLE AND TOUGH
KLX140 Was $6,795
$6,604
NOW $6,295
excl
Kawasaki Mule SX 2x4
$15,213
excl
KAF Mule Bigfoot 4x4
$17,822
excl
$21,734
excl
excl
If you need to upgrade your Yamaha workhorse it is vital you back order now. Our on farm servicing is hugely popular and we love that but you must ring to book! BRING ON 2024!
FILCO FARM & SPORT
SOLUTIONS ANNESBROOK NELSON
Rod Payne & Dave Filer
www.filco.co.nz