Top South Farming - September 2023

Lab-grown meat ‘unlikely threat’ to traditional meat

BARBARA STUART

Meat grown in laboratories has been firmly rejected by the World Farmers’ Organisation, which says it’s not a viable alternative to food produced by farmers. The organization, which represents farmers worldwide, has taken a resolute stand against lab-grown meat underlining the significance of sustainable agriculture as the debate surrounding lab-grown meat intensifies. While consumers and policymakers navigate the complexities of the future of food, the position adopted by the World Farmers’ Organisation is a strong message.

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It makes the farmer-voice heard loud and clear and reminds the world of the invaluable and irreplaceable role that farmers play in feeding the planet sustainably.

Warren McNabb, Professor of Nutritional Sciences, for the Riddet Institute at Massey University, dismissed laboratory produced meat as unlikely to be a threat to traditionally produced meat.

“There are enormous capacity and investment problems, simply building a big enough facility that could dent traditionally produced meat for starters,” says Warren. “Plus, meat produced in a laboratory comes from one cell and is unlikely to contain

the nutrient package we get from real meat, which is a rich source of protein, iron, zinc, niacin, riboflavin, vitamin B12 and thiamine.”

Currently, Professor McNabb

Editor’s Corner

BARBARA STUART

What a month it’s been for political announcements. With up-coming elections and individual political parties making announcements set to be policy only if they are elected. It all gets confusing, what are promises and what’s just political dreaming.

My best advice; let’s wait and see what the elections bring before getting anxious about what it means for farming. The electioneering and parading remind me of our feral turkey’s mating displays.

About twenty years ago our neighbours on Pepin Island introduced turkeys to the Island. A few of them decided to migrate to our side of the Bay and now we have several sizable mobs marauding about the place. Apparently, they’re good at eating grass grub. All around the farm they have roosting spots on gates, a pile of dung marking the current spot.

says, only two places in the world can make meat in a laboratoryone is in Singapore and another in the United States.

“The quantity of meat they’ve produced to date is the equivalent of three cattle beasts. This gives some context,” he says.

The World Farmers’ Organisation says: “There is still much to learn about laboratory produced its protein and nutritional value and how it could affect human health in the long term. In addition, any claims regarding less land and water use, greenhouse-gas-emissions reduction, animal welfare and reduced risk of zoonotic diseases have yet to be proved.

“The role of farmers is essential in shaping resilient and sustainable food systems,” the WFO says. “Achieving sustainability involves embracing diverse agricultural systems, ensuring inclusiveness and transparency, and promoting research and innovation while preserving tradition.”

The organization says it wants stronger connections between consumers, policymakers, and the agricultural and rural communities to promote a better understanding of the benefits of agriculture – including livestock farming. It strongly opposes replacing farmer-grown food with lab-made food.

son plumage and red wattles or dewlaps bright and attractive to the hens and threatening to other Gobbler males competing for the hens.

Now its spring we hear the Gobblers at daylight singing their gobbling song to attract

attention, fluffing up their feathers and displaying fanlike tail feathers. Their mating sea-

They are a regular topic of conversation for urban visitors who are not used to the sight of feral turkeys. From a distance they are beautiful, it’s up close their features look ugly. People are either entranced or revolted. Electioneering and the turkey’s mating season will be over in six or seven weeks, and everything settles down. Turkey hens, begin nesting and the gobbler males are all friends again. I doubt we can say the same for the politicians. Politics is a harsh environment, and someone must do the job, it’s called democracy. Last month I asked if anyone had any animal stories to share. Unfortunately, there was a digit left off my contact number. Please try again or give me a call if you have a story 027 445 1139.

Meat produced in a laboratory comes from one cell and is unlikely to contain the nutrient package we get from real meat

Warren McNabb

Bella’s in the fire brigade hot seat

Bella Clark-Melchers reckons Ralph Longsdale started it all. Back in 1993, Ralph rang Bella and asked if she knew anyone who would join the Appleby Fire Brigade.

“I asked my husband and he wasn’t interested,” recalls Bella. “Do you think they would take females? Me? Could I do it?” she asked. And that’s where it all started,” says Bella.

“It was about the community, once I started, I realised it was broader, comradery, learning and helping. It’s been an amazing journey,” recalls Bella. She went to her first brigade meeting, then the following month her sister-in-law also joined. They we were treated well, encouraged, and supported by the brigade members.

“I remember the driving being especially difficult; an old manual that required ‘double clutching’, very hard to drive but great to learn in. The driver’s course was a real challenge. I was pushed to my limits, but it didn’t stop me, I kept progressing with my own training and supporting the training of others.”

Bella became interested in peer support, especially around well-being and psychological support. She actively worked to improve organisational culture, helping to remove toxic cultures. “There are better avenues to be heard and supported these days,” says Bella, “peer support is not just about the firefighters, it’s about the impact and support for their families.”

When the ‘Women in FENZ’ group began, Bella became involved in improving the culture for women within the organisation. It was an unpleasant time for women in the service. Some were exposed to poor behaviour – over time, improvements in the culture meant that women no longer had to be ‘one of the men’.

“We want our men on-board with us on this journey,” says Bella. There have been many changes and challenges over the last few years with Rural and Urban fire amalgamating under the new Fire and Emergency NZ (FENZ), Covid 19 and a new station build, but it now feels like a great time for the brigade to consolidate.

FENZ Group Manager, Chris Best says: “I would like to congratulate and welcome Bella to her role as Appleby’s Chief Fire Officer and express our gratitude to out-going Chief Paul Eggers for his dedication and contribution to the brigade and to the community of Appleby.

“Bella brings a very strong community focus to the Brigade’s leader role. She has a history of being very proactive in helping her community build resilience.

The Appleby Brigade is proactive and community-facing and Bella has been a big part of strengthening the bond between the brigade and the community.”

Appleby brigade is proud that 25 per cent of its members are wom-

en. Bella makes a real effort to encourage local children during community events.

“We use the hose to squirt targets, often the girls are shy to try,” says Bella, but she encourages them that not only can they do it, but instils the message and challenge that one day it would be cool to see these same children wave to me from the driver’s seat of the fire truck as it races past – “It’s great to be empowering self-belief in these young girls.”

Bella’s volunteering has been well supported by her family. She says when the calls come in, her husband just takes over, the kids know to just ‘get on with it’.

“Although my children were supportive, I didn’t find out until recently that my middle child was terrified when the siren went off, thinking I might not come home. When my son joined for a brief time, her anxiety doubled. I wish I had known that all those years ago so that I could have assured her I would come home.”

A highlight of Bella’s service was the 2019 Pigeon Valley fire

that burned for a month and destroyed 2400 hectares.ots of learning, I thrived in it”, she says smiling. Would you recommend volunteering for FENZ Bella?

“Yes – it’s a commitment but the challenges I have overcome have made me more resilient and I now feel more confident to speak up, which I never would have previously. Iv’e developed a sense of fairness – I expect people to be treated well. We need to look at people’s strengths. The ‘don’t do this and that’ mentality doesn’t sit

with my ethos. Mistakes always have learnings that help us grow. Any advice to women considering joining FENZ Bella? Ha Ha, yes, you will get dirty, but it’s worth it!

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Bella Clark-Melchers is Appleby’s new fire chief.

Photo: Supplied.

Out and about in North Nelson with Blair Cameron

BARBARA STUART

National’s Blair Cameron is standing in the Nelson electorate for the 2023 elections, and he recently met with locals in the rural area of North Nelson along with National’s spokesperson for Agriculture and Trade, Hon Todd McClay. Who is Blair Cameron and what skills does he have to be Nelson’s elected representative? Blair was brought up in rural Canterbury at Highbank and attended school in Methven. He spent school holidays working on farms, tractor driving and his mates there are still involved in farming and food production. Blair has since made Nelson home after returning from overseas in 2020. He attended Mount Hutt College and was offered a scholarship to study at the United World College in Hong Kong. From there he studied at Brown University in the United States before jobs at Princeton and the World Bank researching how to make governments work better.

“I also spent a year at the International Monetary Fund, doing some research with them

on how to deliver strategies to reduce corruption in government.”

In March 2020 he came back to New Zealand for a friend’s wedding, and ended up staying due to Covid, working remotely. By that time his mum had moved to Nelson, that’s why he settled here.

Regarding his candidacy, Blair said: “I’ve spent time learning who’s who and investigating what issues are important to locals. National is prioritising solving the transport mess at Richmond. Everyone I talk to is worried

about the economy.

“We want to fix the economy so we can reduce the cost of living, get the Nelson Hospital rebuild back on track, fight for local control of local institutions like NMIT, and be a strong voice for the environment. We also want to back teachers to deliver better outcomes in education, improve access to mental health services and solve workforce shortages.

Most importantly we want to back our primary sector and celebrate the wide range of produce that’s exported from the Top of the South Island.”

Top South Farming took the opportunity to ask a few people attending ‘what changes they hope the October election will bring for rural people.

“Less bureaucracy and more actual action plus funding for nurses, doctors and teachers.”

“Farming is under the pump. Compliance is making us uneconomic.”

“Throw out three waters. Something for pensioners, the pension is not keeping up with inflation.”

“Just want a stable economy where grocery prices stay the same.”

National’s Blair Cameron addresses North Nelson locals . Photo: Supplied.

Alison Ingham

Delaware Bay Resident

John Walker Licensed Auctioneer

Mike McDonald Dairy Farmer

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Another blow to under pressure dairy farmers

DairyNZ

The agriculture emissions pricing plan released by the Government today is thoughtlessly timed and lacks the detail dairy farming needs for a viable solution, says DairyNZ. The recent announcement follows a further reduction in the forecast milk price, delivering yet another blow to a sector already under intense pressure.

DairyNZ chair Jim van der Poel says, the announcement comes after a significant delay and does not reflect the progress the dairy sector has been seeking. “It shows little understanding of the challenges dairy farmers are facing this season. Dairy farmers are facing significant pressure right now, with business viability under threat. “The issue of emissions pricing is of huge importance behind the farm gate, and we all need to keep our farmers top of mind. We will continue to work with government on this to seek a workable solution – no deal is still better than a bad deal,” he says.

Stephen Todd, Nelson Federated Farmers chairman, dismissed the announcement is completely unpalatable to farmers rural New Zealanders. His response was emphatic, “at a time when farmers are struggling to keep their heads above water and need assurance and stability, they’re instead being weighed down with more uncertainty, complexity, and cost. It’s pleasing to see DairyNZ being clear they will not accept policy that threatens farm business and rural communities. Farmers will pray they stick to guns alongside Federated farmers and other industry bodies.”

DairyNZ acknowledges the issues the sector raised in December have been considered but the emissions announcement lacks the detail the sector needs to provide confidence in the next steps towards implementation. For example, how revenue will be recycled has not been detailed. It is also not appropriate to announce emissions pricing without some sort of guide around cost – farmers need to

Fonterra increases emissions reduction ambitions

know the detail, to be able to plan. The sector remains committed to landing a constructive, workable solution to agricultural emissions. However, the government’s proposal does not yet deliver what farmers need to understand the impact of the scheme on their businesses.

“The emissions announcement comes with a dire lack of detail and continues the uncertainty that’s been hanging over farmers since 2018,” Mr van der Poel says.

“We have been clear – we will not accept policy that threatens farm businesses and rural communities. Pricing was only ever needed to facilitate the necessary change. It will not achieve anything unless cost-effective tools and technology are available.

DairyNZ is working closely with farmers to support them to remain viable this season –and we continue to advocate on their behalf, along with sector partners, for a fair, workable solution based on incentives to drive change.

Fonterra has announced a lift in its decarbonisation ambition with a new Scope 1&2 emissions reduction target which will be achieved by bringing forward some of its work to get out of coal.

Fonterra CEO Miles Hurrell says the Co-op is targeting a 50% absolute reduction in Scope 1&2 emissions by 2030, from a 2018 baseline, an increase on its previous target of a 30% reduction by 2030.

“Fonterra’s Scope 1&2 emissions largely come from our manufacturing operations and supply chain. Strengthening our emissions reduction target supports our ambition to be net zero by 2050,” says Mr Hurrell. Achieving the new target will require Fonterra to continue to undertake energy efficiency improvements and fuel switching to renewable energy source activities across its milk collection fleet and manufacturing sites, with a focus on the six where it uses coal. To do this, Fonterra is forecasting an investment of $790 million, including a government contribution of up to $90 million through the Government Investment in Decarbonising Industry (GIDI) fund.

“As a Co-op, Fonterra under-

stands how we can achieve more by working together. The addition of Government funding enables us to lift our 2030 ambition to reduce Scope 1&2 emissions by 50% and optimise our process to get out of coal by 2037.

“We are already well underway with shifting our manufacturing operations to renewable energy sources. Over the past five years, we have carried out decarbonisation projects at five different sites and we’re looking forward to continuing this momentum.

“We’re currently assessing biomass, electrification, and heat pump technology at our Clandeboye and Edendale sites. We see these technologies as the best solutions possible at this stage.

“Accelerating our plans will help Fonterra continue to present our customers with the world’s lowest carbon dairy at scale. It will also contribute to New Zealand meeting its climate targets while delivering benefits across regional New Zealand, such as job opportunities in local communities,” says Mr Hurrell.

The Co-op is currently talking with farmers about a Scope 3 emissions target, which will be announced shortly.

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The tale of the toey blue boar

ELOISE MARTYN

It’s the thrill of the chase that makes pig hunting an exciting sport. It tests your fitness, your ability to track, your rifle and knife skills. However, the sport has its risks as Kerry Robbins, a highly experienced pig hunter, knows firsthand.

December 2022 saw Kerry have a dramatic tango with a toey blue boar.

“It’s a bit of a story but the boar was found and bailed in his bed. We climbed 100 metres through the thick gorse and just about got to him when he broke the bail and went straight downhill to where we’d been standing on the gully floor. We did a u- turn back down the track we made coming up which put us back on the valley floor about 45 metres underneath him where he was bailed again.”

Now on a path only 300 millimetres wide in heavy thick broom, Kerry continues the encounter: “There were three of us there and the young fella was in front of me. He had his knife out and was yakking so I told him to be quiet and, just as he turned around to put his knife away, an expletive came

from his mouth and he dived into the gorse and vanished,” says Kerry. “After he had vanished into the gorse there was this pig only a metre in front of me, so I had no time to react. He let out an almighty scoff and charged me. All I could do to defend myself was kick him with my right foot in the snout, which sent both of us flying backwards.

“He put his head down low and charged again this time heading between my ankles but as he went through, he did a quick flick of his head and cut me down my right leg. Because of the situation, the adrenaline masked how bad it really was. I had no idea. The chase continued and I was determined to get him.”

Kerry says they caught the feisty

pig and got it back to the Ute. It was a full hour later that Kerry realised the pig had ripped straight through his chaps and sock.

“I had checked my dogs, but not myself. I should have checked myself a lot sooner, but I had been running on adrenaline,” sighs Kerry, “the pig had hit the bone and ripped a muscle in a messy L shape.”

The rip required forty plus stitches and gave Kerry a deeper appreciation for what his dogs are faced with when hunting. The adventure didn’t end there.

Ten days later Kerry’s leg ended up seriously infected needing intravenous antibiotics.

“Oh, it was rotten, I was in hospital and being challenged with some radical steps that would have to be taken if the IV didn’t start working. It wasn’t looking good.”

Fortunately, around day six there was an improvement and things began to turn the corner. The whole experience has Kerry emphasising to others how fast stuff can happen to anyone.

“It’s important if you’re hunting by yourself to have a plan so if things turn bad you can contact family or friends via phone or an emergency beacon if it’s more serious. And when hunting with others, be connected by radio.” At the moment Kerry is struggling with a knee that has a torn meniscus and is not sure how it’s going to recuperate.

“It’s the first serious rip I’ve had. But the pig was 60kg, real fat and ended up on a spit,” he quips with obvious pride.

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Kerry Robbins with a nice tusky boar from another adventure. Photo: Supplied.

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Effort to control wilding kiwifruit underway

ELOISE MARTYN

Coming across a kiwifruit vine in Tasman’s backcountry might seem like a treat but, like any plant growing out of place, wilding kiwifruit has the potential to cause havoc when it escapes into our native habitats.

The Restoring and Protecting Flora project - a Top of the South Island conservation programmeis mobilising additional effort to control wilding kiwifruit spreading into native bush to prevent the climbing vine from smothering native plants.

The project is surveying and controlling wilding kiwifruit from the Karamea River in the west to the Marlborough Sounds and Wairau River in the east, taking a landscape-scale approach to dealing with this significant weedy invader.

“It’s a real threat,” says Restoring and Protecting Flora project manager Hudson Dodd. “It’s another amazingly good smotherer of native bush like old man’s beard and banana passionfruit vine. Wilding kiwifruit can also be a vector for disease and pests and a real threat to commercial growers.”

The seed is easily spread by birds eating the fruit, and a single wilding vine can smother hectares of

native bush, causing ecosystem collapse and catastrophic loss of plant and animal species.

“We need regional scale control, which is going to require a collaborative effort from everyone if we are going to prevent wilding ki-

wifruit spreading across the landscape. Restoring and Protecting Flora presents a really good opportunity to work together so we can really have a positive impact,” Hudson says.

Because of this, disposal of kiwi-

fruit is something we all need to consider carefully, especially in the bush where the seed can easily germinate. If you are carrying kiwifruit whilst out and about, take the scraps home with you and dispose of them safely rather

than leaving them in the bush as it only takes one tiny seed to start an entire vine.

“If you have seen any wild kiwifruit vines, please help Tasman District Council by calling 03 543 8400 and letting us know where you have seen them,” a council spokesperson says. “Photos are always handy for follow-up action. We will then add these sites to our database, for future destruction.”

A spokesperson for Kiwi Vine Health adds that wild kiwifruit vines are a “vigorous, densely hairy vine that can grow up to 20m high into the forest canopy”. Hudson says that the project is a significant collaboration between Buller, Tasman, and Marlborough district councils, the Department of Conservation (DOC), MBC Environmental, Project DeVine Environmental Trust and Kūmānu Environmental.

It is being led by The Nature Conservancy Aotearoa NZ and being funded by DOC’s Jobs for Nature fund.

“By working together, we will achieve more gains towards addressing the biosecurity issues NZ faces. It’s a significant move to restore the environment and help nature and people thrive,” Hudson says.

Wilding kiwifruit control in action in the Marlborough sounds. Photo: Rob Simons. Restoring and Protecting Flora project manager Hudson Dodd says wilding kiwifruit is a real threat. Photo: Supplied.

Our wine story is truly remarkable

DAMIEN O’CONNOR

Nga Mihi, I was in South Australia recently being hosted by my trade counterpart Senator Don Farrell. During the trip someone from their wine sector commented that New Zealand wine’s reputation around sustainability gave us a competitive edge abroad. Our wine story is truly remarkable. Who would have thought that we could establish a wine industry and within a century compete with regions who’ve been producing wine for thousands of years?

Brand building.

More broadly, why do people overseas seek out New Zealand food and fibre products?

Because they have an image of us in their minds and with it a perception that “if it comes from New Zealand, it must be good for you.”

There’s good reason for them to think this. We’ve earned ourselves an enviable reputation in the world for being a producer of some of the finest quality food and fibre. That is brand power. A couple of weeks ago we took what I consider to be the next steps in evolving our brand when

I announced on behalf of the Government, Cabinet decisions on the work plan to establish a system to incentivise emissions reduction on our farms.

These decisions were very much informed by the He Waka Eke Noa industry partnership.

A key function of the pricing system, if not the main function in my opinion, is to raise funds through a farm level levy to develop the tools farmers can use to maintain production and lower methane and nitrous oxide. To date the taxpayer has funded well over $300 million into agricultural emissions research. That’s not sustainable.

We’ve agreed with the sector to set the levy at the lowest price possible.

To be clear, this is not a tax that goes into Government spending. This funding is to be ringfenced to stay within the sector.

What will that price be? We have not made decisions on this other than outline the factors, because we believe it should be done closer to the time, when the new technology we’re funding begins to come on stream.

Nevertheless, as one farming leader said in meetings, “the sys-

tem needs to be able to wash its own face” – meaning there needs to be sufficient funds for ongoing product development of tools for farmers.

On sequestration we’re setting a pathway for scientifically validated forms such as indigenous vegetation and riparian plantings to be recognised in the ETS. We have also taken a look at timelines in response to the sector and agreed to push back the reporting and pricing by about a

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emissions come from agriculture. Tesco want a 17 per cent drop in scope 3 emissions by 2030. These are just to name a couple.

Dutch dairy cooperative Arla has just allocated $4 billion of incentive payments to farmers for reducing emissions as part of its ‘scope 3’ accounting. It has said that farmers who do the most for the climate and environment will receive the highest price for their milk.

These trends should make anyone with skin in the game sit up and take notice.

year. That’s a pragmatic compromise.

Coming back to the topic of brand. The future of our export growth will depend on demonstrating our sustainability credentials to ever more discerning customers.

The market signals continue to strengthen. Confectionery manufacturer, Mars, has set out to lower emissions across scopes 1, 2 and 3 by 67 per cent by 2050 and has said 38 per cent of its

I acknowledge that the coming season will be tough for many, with prices coming off record highs. But we still need to take a long-term view of things. Regarding brand, these market shifts are in our favour for the reasons outlined in the example of our wine industry. We should look at this as a tail wind and not a headwind because we are well-positioned to capture opportunity.

We will know we’ve succeeded in next step in brand building when high value consumers around the world say this: “If it comes from New Zealand it must be good for you and the planet.”

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Damien O’Connor, Minister of Agriculture. Photo: Supplied.

A year after the deluge

FROM

BARBARA STUART

Twelve months ago, D’Urville Islanders were hit by the cyclone that affected Marlborough Sounds and Nelson and islanders lost roads and communications.

Angus and Becs Forgan manage Patuki at the Northern end of D’Urville Island/Rangitoto ki te Tonga for Verity Farms. The property runs 4000 stock units made up of 1800 Perendale ewes, plus replacements and 180 Angus cows plus replacements. It looks out towards Stephens Island and is exposed to all weather and the fierce tidal flows of the formidable Stephens passage.

Now twelve months later, Angus reflects that, “This spring is very different from then.”

They are enjoying drier conditions; winter has been kinder, and there’s enough feed to get them through. The big rain caused a lot of damage to the garden and the farm, and it’s taken the Forgans all year to repair most of the fences and tracks.

Helping hands from Trev and Kevin were very much appreciated and has made the work less tedious. There’s still one more fence line to repair and Angus is waiting for drier weather before he tackles it, he says.

Angus and Becs have been managing the property for the past 18 years. Teaching their three daughters by correspondence until they reached high school. Their eldest daughter is currently at Massey University, studying Veterinary science and the two younger girls attend Garin College in Nelson.

Like many others who choose

to live in remote rural areas, independence and self-sufficiency are key factors in their ability to cope and quietly carry on.

“Marlborough Sounds roading remains, “a story of patience,” Marlborough District Councillor, Barbara Faulls reports.

This season residents and businesses in the Sounds are still finding it tough. Farmers need a highly co-ordinated plan to get stock out from Kenepuru when barging to Havelock and it is a similar story when bringing fertiliser and supplies in. They must also preplan bookings for ongoing stock to Alliance or wherever they are destined.

“It’s a logistical nightmare with increased costs despite support from the Council subsidy and now there’s reduced returns expected for the coming season adding to anxiety for the Marlborough Sounds community,” she said.

West Coast Update

CAROL KEOGHAN

RST chair for Westcoast

After the two flood events that hit Westport in July 2021 and February 2022 affecting residents and the farming communities up on the Westcoast, Rural Support Chair, Carol Keoghan reported, “this past winter has been kind. Most farmers are happy about cow condition and there is plenty of feed down south. In the

Buller area there is a feed pinch in some areas, overall stock condition is good however, farmers are very concerned about the coming season’s payout” she said. Farming business advice is available through Rural Support Trusts, who take an application from, or on behalf of, a farmer or grower who might qualify for assistance. Both the bank and farmer or grower will agree on the expert instructed to provide

The community is waiting for the Stantec report for the ‘Future Access Study,’ this will be sent to the Waka Kotahi board by November. Sounds folk are very aware of communities like the Gisborne-Tairawhiti and other parts of Nelson and Marlborough who also await funding decisions. Meanwhile, some roads are operational but should still be driven with care.

Kenepuru Sound business owners Rob and Sabine Harper report that things are stable in their community but there is not much forward energy for fixing our road to the standard required for trucks. There is a lot of stress amongst residents, especially the vulnerable.

After two natural disasters in 2022 with a rainfall of 423mm in July and 730mm rain event in August hitting the Kenepuru Sound it’s a lot to come back from. The Harpers have down scaled their honey busi-

ness from 2000 hives down to 800 hives and have a staff of just two.

“We need leadership from Wellington that will recognise, roads make communities like ours work. They move people and goods in out. Residents spend money in nearby towns adding to the wider economy. We are now facing the next report which is likely

to plan for a Water focused solution adding to costs, it’s not the answer locals really want.” Rob said.

Last year’s La Nina weather pattern disrupted many communities hammered by rain events across the Top of the South. Heavy rain over several days, floods, slips, blocked culverts and raging rivers, once gentle creeks, caused damage to homes and infrastructure. One year on, talking to construction supervisor for Fulton-Hogan, Wayne Harvey, I asked how the clean-up has gone. “We’re getting there,” he responds.

assistance and the terms of reference for the work. The consultant will provide a report, which will be given to the farmer or grower and their bank.

This initiative involves ASB, ANZ, BNZ, Heartland Bank, Rabobank, SBS Bank, TSB and Westpac. If you would like to know more or wish to apply, please contact your local Rural Support Trust on 0800 787

Rob Harper, Sherrington Honey. Inset: Barbara Faulls, Marlborough District Councillor. Photos: Supplied.

For NZ’s agricultural community, it’s a critical election

MAUREEN PUGH National List MP

I am often quizzed on the question of emissions. People get very confused. The challenges of emissions reductions and heightened agricultural productivity can benefit from more proactive, forward-thinking policy, and the resilience that the primary sector have shown over the past six years shows our rural producers have a remarkable ability to adapt and innovate. A balanced approach to addressing greenhouse gas emissions is crucial to ensure it is both fair and effective. A comprehensive understanding of all CO2 sequestered would give a clearer view of our emissions profile. What most New Zealanders don’t realise is that all of our emissions reductions are calculated from January 1st 1990 under the Kyoto Protocol, which extended the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Effectively, our ETS incentivises forests established from 23 years ago, which means that all forests established prior to that date are not included.

Shelter belts and riparian plant-

ings after 1990 are also not included because they do not meet the minimum area and or height requirements. Food-producing trees are also not included. Why this is the case is a mystery to me.

On the other hand, emissions measurement practically captures almost every molecule of CO2 emitted.

Luckily a couple of respected researchers, one being Steinkamp (2017)1, have done just that by utilizing the atmospheric inversion method to explore New Zealand’s carbon dynamics. Encouragingly, more recent research by Bukosa et al (2021)2 not only confirms this trend, but found an even more robust CO2 sink in recent years, particularly in Fiordland’s indigenous temperate rainforests. Their discoveries prove that we have well and truly surpassed net zero.

The shifting political landscape surrounding climate change signals a growing recognition of scientific evidence. That New

Upsurgence of global wildfire events early warning for NZ

Zealand appears to be a net CO2 sink is encouraging but there is more work to do. As with all science, others will attempt to replicate the results and if this is able to be done then policymakers will be forced to account for all sequestered CO2 to portray an accurate emissions profile.

It’s just bureaucratic nonsense that we count for all emissions but do not count all the CO2 that is absorbed in New Zealand. We should debate why we are not accounting for all the CO2 absorbed in New Zealand. After all, it is the net emissions of CO2 in the atmosphere that has the warming effect – shouldn’t we assess that accurately?

Just one of the vexing controversies that make it essential that everyone exercises their democratic right to vote for the important decision that should become clear on the night of Saturday 14 October.

Remember, advance voting starts on Monday October 2nd.

STAFF REPORTER

The upsurgence of global wildfire events is an early warning for potential large-scale fires in New Zealand forests and rural landscapes this upcoming summer season, says the New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF).

NZIF president, James Treadwell, is calling for better coordination and management of these fire risks, saying there is an urgent need to prioritise at-risk land management issues over deployment of firefighting aircrafts and building of more fire trucks.

Fire risks specific to New Zealand are the vast areas covered by self-sown exotics or retired hill and high-country tussock grasslands, which were historically burned every seven to ten years by lease-holding farmers.

“The ceasing of these practices has resulted in an accumulation of fuel across the hill and high-country landscape throughout the country,” Treadwell says.

Previously, much of this landscape had lower fuel loadings, enabling swift containment of unwanted fires.

“Landscapes and rural communities in the South are at particular risk of fire due to the incoming El Niño weather patterns, unless appropriate mitigation activities are undertaken.” Treadwell says.

The NZIF strongly urges Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) to collaborate more closely with landowners and forestry professionals to promote and ensure better management and support in reducing fuel loadings, to raise fire prevention awareness and preparedness and to develop tighter protocols for prevention of fires including power line maintenance and automatic cutouts, and restrictions on high fire risk activities during times of high fire danger.

“Specifically, NZIF would like to see focus directed towards reducing fuel loadings on areas covered in self-sown exotics and controlled fuel reduction burning on Public Crown lands. A comprehensive training program, to ensure there is a sufficient resource of rural forest firefighters who can safely operate in tall timber, hill and high-country environments, is also sorely needed,” Treadwell says.

Katrina Rowley, Director of Boarding

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We are proud to provide a quality and enriching boarding experience for students from across New Zealand and the world. Our fees make NCG boarding one of the most accessible and affordable boarding schools in Aotearoa New Zealand.

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Join our Boarding family today.

For over 40 years Nicholson Protective Coatings have supplied abrasive blasting, water jetting and industrial painting services to a myriad of industries New Zealand wide. The largest protective coatings applicator in the top of the South Island, NPC supplies maintenance contracts to many of New Zealand’s largest companies, applying protective coatings to ships, bridges, bulk fuel storage tanks, lighthouses and large scale civil engineering projects nationwide. Based in Nelson with a staff of 40 plus and a wide range of fixed and mobile water and abrasive blasting equipment no project is too big or small for their capabilities.

NPC has a lengthy history of working in the dairy sector, ensuring that milking sheds, yards and sheds are maintained to the high standards expected in today’s primary production environment. Using water blasting equipment ranging in capacity from 3000PSI to 40,000PSI NPC can remove unsound/ flaking paint quickly and efficiently, leaving high animal traffic and chemically cleaned surfaces clean and ready for new paint. Our experienced staff can then apply the appropriate Carboline products to bare block, concrete and metal surfaces using various application methods. Coating these structures ensures the maximum lifespan for your investment, as well as improving cleaning and hygiene requirements.

If you want advice as to what can be done to protect your infrastructure in a timely and cost effective manner then Nicholson Protective Coatings would love to hear from you. To discuss your project with one of our experienced staff simply call us on 03 547 7407 or email us at admin@nicholsons.co.nz

Act passed under urgency may have unintended impacts

STAFF REPORTER

“NZ Wine Growers are very disappointed that such an important matter has been passed under urgency by the government. While the intention of the Bill is to increase community involvement and to reduce alcohol harm, during the submission process we communicated our concerns this Bill could potentially have a major impact on wine tourism and wine trails. We will be closely monitoring the use of this legislation and its impact on businesses,” says Philip Gregan, CEO of NZ Winegrowers. New Zealand Winegrowers are delighted with the news that the Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Cellar Door Tasting) Amendment Bill, proposed by Stuart Smith MP, has passed

its first reading with broad support from across Parliament, this should not be confused with the supply of Local Alcohol Act.

Philip Gregan goes on to say, “Winery cellar doors are traditionally attached to the vineyard or winery, which makes sense as this is where the wine is produced. They are not purely retail premises and can’t easily relocate elsewhere. For wine trails to operate successfully, winery cellar doors also need to be near each other.”

“This Bill could mean that some winery cellar doors will now be unable to sell wine and be forced to close, if a Local Alcohol Policy imposes proximity provisions relating to sites such as schools or a church, or there are restrictions on the density of licenses. These pro-

visions would apply irrespective of whether the winery cellar door is well run or valued by the community. This makes little or no sense given winery cellar doors are in the lowest risk category of licence, where wine is available to be tasted, enjoyed, and purchased.” This is another blow to wine businesses - during a time when they are already struggling with surging production costs, labour shortages, and increasing excise tax. “It is disheartening that this has passed without due consideration of the unintended possible consequences. There is little doubt these changes will have a negative knockon effect in our wine tourism regions, where wine tourists bring much needed income to support local jobs and businesses.”

Be careful what you wish for OPINION

GARRICK BATTEN

We have recently completed trade agreements with the EU and UK, lauded as a significant NZ success. But we need to read the fine print and minds of those other parties before opening the bubbles.

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Those countries have increased their emphasis on sustainability and carbon neutrality for producing their food. The EU Green Deal has a package of wide-ranging proposals around water quality impact, air quality, biodiversity and mitigating climate change. Behind that is trade policy to increasingly require imported food products to meet those standards. They may be similar to our own, but their farmers will be subsidised to produce food to those standards, but ours will be taxed and regulated.

The UK has stated that farmers are at the heart of the economy, producing food as well as being custodians of the land it comes from. Just like NZ. But their farmers are to be paid to adapt and maintain their businesses to protect and enhance the natural environment with practices that support productivity for providing food. They will have an enhanced version of their Countryside Stewardship Scheme that includes 30

new actions, plus the existing 250 Sustainable Farming Initiatives to pick and mix, adopt and implement. Unlike our regulations, there are different schemes for England, Scotland and Wales recognising that one size does not fit all, and that payment rates need to encourage change. Particularly noticeable is that Schemes do not need specialist advice, and that farmers will also get a payment of up to £1000 annually to recognise their costs and time to participate.

Some Annual payments schemes with particular parallels to NZ farming are £589 to complete a nutrient management assessment and report, £102 per ha to establish and maintain legumes, £98151 per ha to manage practices with very low nutrient inputs, £207 per ha managing intensive grassland adjacent

to a watercourse, £396 per ha for very low nitrogen inputs, £347 per ha to control invasive plants, and from £372684 for a livestock health and welfare vet review. Also relevant is there is no need for audit as farmers wanting to be involved through such incentives will be self-policing.

So while the EU and UK will support their farmers to be sustainable, our recent trade agreements could use non-tariff barriers and bans against our food driven by domestic pressures not logic. Ironically, our Parliament has recently taken the contrary and confusing position. Despite thousands signing a petition to ban the import of pork produced under welfare and environmental conditions less stringent than ours, it decided that we cannot impose our welfare standards on other countries because it would breach trade agreements.

These trade agreements could be an uneven playing field, so should we meet their new subsidised environmental standards without having equal support? Farmers need balance and reality from our government, not threats. They need to make these points as they affect our national export income, local food prices and our standard of living.

Could West Coast - Tasman Hold the Balance of Power?

Patrick Phelps believes we can. If we vote smarter.

Many polls are predicting an incredibly tight election result (perhaps even a hung parliament) on the 14th of October. Patrick Phelps, a district councillor and former manager of Minerals West Coast, thinks the time is ripe for our electorate to get a bigger voice in parliament, and see more decisions going our way.

But isn’t a vote for an independent just a wasted vote?

What do you mean by voting ‘smarter’?

It’s our party votes that largely determine the make up of parliament. If we want more National MPs, we can party vote National. If we want more Labour MPs, we can party vote Labour. Or we can vote for any smaller party that we want to see in there.

But when it comes to our electorate vote, where we choose who will be our local MP, we need to think beyond this ‘two ticks’ mentality. It’s not getting us anywhere. By voting in a major party candidate, we are continually resigning West Coast-Tasman to being just another seat in parliament for one party or another.

MPs from major parties ultimately have to report to their party leaders, toe party lines, and consider much larger voting blocks in places like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. And that’s if their party even gets into government. When they are languishing in opposition, our electorate becomes somewhat of a dead duck.

I think a smarter way to go for West Coast-Tasman is to elect an MP that doesn’t represent, or report to any particular party. An independent MP who only represents our electorate. Someone who can work with any party, depending on who gets in, and push for the best possible outcomes for our regions.

Given how tight this election will be, an independent MP could put us in a very strong position in parliament.

It’d be easy for me to say ‘quite the opposite!’ But I would say that, right? Here’s a better way to look at it: the two major party MPs in this electorate - Damien O’Connor (Labour) and Maureen Pugh (National) – are so far up their party lists that they will definitely get into parliament. Regardless of who wins our electorate seat. So why would you want to waste an electorate vote on someone who is already going to be in parliament? Wouldn’t it be smarter to elect an independent MP so we could have three West Coast-Tasman based MPs in parliament?

If you need more convincing, just look at some of the stuff Peter Dunne, David Seymour, and Tariana Turia achieved under the previous National Government. Like them or not, they got some real wins for the people they represent, despite being either one-man-bands, or in very small (at the time) parties.

Do you really think the West Coast-Tasman electorate could hold the balance of power?

Quite possibly. The polls are very close, and even if one side gets a few seats ahead on the day, our electorate seat could help sure-up a majority. In return for getting a few more things done in our regions, of course.

The bigger question is, how can West Coast-Tasman vote to ensure we get maximum influence in the next government? I would argue that if we elect

another major party candidate, who will make it into parliament anyway, we’ll never have the kind of political influence we need to enable more jobs and opportunities here. By going with an independent, we give ourselves the best shot at getting our voices heard – regardless of how the cards play out in the rest of the country.

Obviously you aren’t just advocating for an independent MP, you are running to be our independent MP. Why are you standing in this election?

I don’t think the government, particularly in recent times, has allowed Tasman or the West Coast to do as well as they otherwise could. I want this electorate to be a place where people can farm, grow, mine, harvest timber and fish, and manufacture. I don’t want us to be reduced to being little more than a minimum wage visitor destination where every second house is an Air B&B. I’ve got three siblings, two of whom have left and will probably never come back to live here. A lot of friends have gone further afield seeking better jobs and opportunities. I want this to be a place people want to live and work, open a business, and raise families. Ensuring the right decisions are made in Wellington is vital for everyone living here, whether you’re in Whataroa or Wakefield. That’s why I’m standing.

Q+A with West Coast-Tasman electorate candidate Patrick Phelps.

Local forestry study important for the industry

STAFF REPORTER

A seven-year forestry study looking at the impact of sediment in rivers from harvesting and earthworks has entered its fifth year.

The $2.7 million study is jointly funded by Ministry for Primary Industries through its Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund and OneFortyOne New Zealand Forests. The work is being done in two forested catchments located in OneFortyOne’s Donald Creek Forest near Tadmor in the Tasman district.

Jo Field, OneFortyOne’s Environment Manager, said the study is exploring the effectiveness of current best practice in sediment control as well as looking at opportunities to improve practice.

“The current phase of the study is measuring post-harvest sediment load changes and impacts using current best practice sediment control techniques, alongside

freshwater monitoring data collected throughout the study,” Jo said.

“This year we reached a significant milestone for the project. We were able to analyse and compare the data from a catchment that has been recently harvested with data from the control (unharvested) catchment.”

Interim results show that sediment loads are higher in the post-harvest catchment than in the control catchment. This is expected for the post-harvest area as there are extensive earthworks associated with roads and landings and it no longer has the tree canopy to reduce the impact of rain on the soils and stream, however the groundcover vegetation does develop rapidly. Despite the sediment loads being higher after harvesting, there has been no quantitative or anecdotal evidence to suggest any impact on water quality or habitat in the Tadmor River

downstream. Later in the project, we will be seeking input from industry and relevant experts to see if we can design better sediment control options than is current best practice. This would then be tested in the currently unharvested catchment prior to it being harvested and compared with the existing methods. The data will help us understand the impacts of our business. It will help us learn what works well and where we might do better.

“This is a valuable opportunity to test the performance of current and new in-forest sediment management techniques - and we are grateful to work alongside Cawthron Institute, Envirolink, Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Research as well as the Ministry for Primary Industries,” Says Jo “This is important work, which we’ll be able to share widely with the forestry sector and other stakeholders.”

Corina Stebbings, Envirolink Hydrologist, gauging the waterflow in the creek below the harvested area. Photo: Supplied.

Get on top of your winter servicing

Is your gear ready for next season? Now is the time to give it a well deserved check over

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CONSTRUCTION

Russell McGhie Service Manager

Bryan Simpson Parts Manager

Quality Used Tractors and Machinery

• John Deere 2250 4x4, non cab, GNS loader, good tractor - coming in

• Iseki 2160 22hp hydro in tidy order - $5,750

• Ford New Holland 7840 SLE and Pearson loader - $23,000

Massey Ferguson 188 and loader - $9,750

Fiat 780 4x4 and loader - coming in

• Iseki 6500 and loader - $12,500

• John Deere 1640 4x4 and loader - coming in

• John Deere 6200 cab and loader and bucket$22,000

• Small 1.5 slasher and also 1.2 model - $1,500

• Giltrap 3pl log splitter - $2,250

• Heavy duty 7ft back blade - $4,500

• Pallet forks front uro and rear - from $500 Hustler front fork lift suit 135 MF

• Austin 3 Mtre Heavy Duty Cambridge Roller $5,500

• Rata vineyard cultivator crumbler range of sizes available

• Dual wheels Snap/locks 38” 36” 34” 30” from - $2,200

• 9ft Cambridge roller - $1,800

• Trimax 1.8 Vineyard Mower, tidy order - $3,000

• Hydralada double in-row vine trimmer. Fully serviced with joy stick - coming in

• Mole plough good order - $1,850

• Silvan 600l herbicide sprayer electric controls$5,000

• Celli Tiger 190 Rotary hoe new blade 3m wide cage roller - $9,500

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• Celli Pioneer 170 Spike Rotar very good condition - $12,500

• Lely 280m hay mower center pivot hay mowertidy order - $11,500

• Kvernland TLA 6 metre cultivator crumbler$8,500

Berti TFBY 160 in very good order $6,750

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Massey Ferguson 245 Tidy 50hp tractor serviced and new seat, good tyres, great small block tractor - $10,500

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Kubota M100GX 4X4 Near new 1300hrs very good order - $56,000

Climate change impacts Tasman district

ELOISE MARTYN

Climate change is already affecting us here in the Tasman region. Farmers and growers are already feeling the heat. The national average temperature has already increased by 1.1˚C to 1.2 ˚C, South Island glaciers are retreating, and we are experiencing fewer frosts, more frequent extreme weather events resulting in increased insurance costs and disturbed livelihoods and unfortunately climate modelling is projecting that there is more to come.

The terms “global warming” and “climate change” are sometimes used interchangeably, but “global warming” is only one aspect of climate change. “Global warming” refers to the longterm warming of the planet.

“Climate change” encompasses global warming but refers to the broader range of changes that are happening to our planet. These include rising sea levels; shrinking mountain glaciers; accelerating ice melt in places like Greenland, Antarctica and the Arctic; and shifts in flower/plant blooming times. These are all consequences of warming.

“Human activities in the

form of Greenhouse gas emissions are the biggest contributor to climate change and global warming.” says Andrew Fenemor, a hydrology expert, from Landcare Research Nelson.

Greenhouse gas emissions are gases in the earth’s atmosphere that trap heat; our greenhouse emissions come from things such as burning fossil fuels for electricity, heat, and transportation as well as fuels used to power businesses such as meat, dairy and steel companies which all put out heat-trapping gases into the air.

“Climate change for us means warmer temperatures all year round, increased extreme weather events, and in Nelson-Tasman slightly more rainfall annually,” says Andrew “We are seeing the effects of global warming right now with the extreme heat wave happening in Europe.” Examples of extreme weather events include floods, thunderstorms, cyclones and droughts.

An increased global temperature has a big effect on the hydrological cycle (global water cycle) – which is the cycle of how water moves from the land and ocean surface to the atmosphere and back in the form of pre-

cipitation (rain). “When you boil the jug as it gets hotter and hotter more steam is released out of it, this is because air at a higher temperature can hold more water droplets. The same happens with global warming as it forces our water cycle to move at a faster pace increasing their intensity and frequency of wet and dry spells.” explains Andrew. “Even though annual rainfall is projected to increase slightly here, we actually expect longer droughts and worse floods – talking about averages sometimes isn’t helpful” he adds.

Records from the major ports recorded over the last 100 years (Auckland, Wellington, and Lyttelton) indicate that the local sea level has risen by 15–20 cm in the last 100 years and advice from the Ministry for

the Environment is that a sea level rise of at least 0.9 m (90cm) should be planned for by 2090. “From this we can expect an equivalent rise in the water table adjacent to the coast, and for the salt-water wedge in our coastal aquifers and rivers to move inland 0.9 m higher in elevation. In the absence of higher summer river flows (as planned from the Waimea community dam), a 0.9 m rise in sea level would increase the risk of seawater intrusion into coastal wells along the Waimea Inlet and up the Waimea River towards the Appleby bridge.” says Andrew. A few of the predicted challenges climate change will bring to farmers and growers in our region are increased irrigation demand, and the need for more water storage to meet this demand.

Andrew explains that “If our summers become hotter and drier then naturally in response irrigation demand will increase, as will water demand in town. And longer summer droughts will mean lower river flows and groundwater levels, so water storage and efficient water use become even more critical.”

New Zealanders produce a lot of greenhouse gases, we are a small country but our emissions per person are big. Per person, we’re one of the thirty biggest emitters worldwide. With the increased temperature we are already in the position of needing to adjust and make a number of changes in response. The key now is to take vital steps to limit any further warming. As individuals we can do this by supporting businesses that are reducing their emissions, reducing their impact on forests, water and agriculture, moving out of fossil fuels and using renewable energy. As well as speaking up to local leaders, council members and policy makers and by keeping climate change in mind when making decisions regarding our households heating, consumption, waste and transport.

Working farm dog study

STAFF REPORTER

A new study into the working farm dog is about to get underway.

The $1.77 million three-year project is supported by the Government through its Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund, with the Ministry for Primary Industries co-investing $770,000. Massey, Focus Genetics and VHL Genetics will contribute $1 million in cash and in-kind.

It will be led by the AL Rae Centre for Genetics and Breeding, a Massey University satellite campus based at Innovation Park in Ruakura, working with industry partners Pamu, Beef + Lamb New

Zealand, and the NZ Sheep Dog Trial Association to engage farmers – and their dogs – across New Zealand.

The projects aim is to develop a new genetic criterion for top-notch working dog traits, and at breeding more top-quality dogs.

The project will apply methodology already used for elite sheep and cattle breeding to farm dogs and minimise risk when selecting a new dog.

It is estimated that there are around 200,000 working dogs across the country.

“Most of our rural canines are Huntaway and Heading Dog breeds with genetic stock unique to New Zealand hill country. Our four-legged

Book Review

‘Life on Fodder Farm - A journey to self sufficiency” by Rebecca Stewart. Upstart Press. $39.99

In the heart of the King Country, the Stewart family have embarked on a giant stride towards self-sufficiency.

Author Rebecca Stewart explains “modern living puts everything at our fingertips, anything we want is there, if we just earn enough to buy it.

But often we spend more time working to pay for this life than actually living it.”

This book details their escape from the “rat race” but also is packed with good, practical advice on economical but more importantly better and healthier living. It’s full of good advice on growing and using your own vegetables, keeping chickens, “do it yourself” projects, preserving fruit and vegetables, some excellent homestead style recipes and the like.

workers make a valuable contribution to on-farm productivity as well as to farmer mental health and wellbeing,” says Minister of Agriculture Damien O’Connor.

“This project will be the most detailed genomic investigation of New Zealand working farm dog breeds to date, with exciting potential to improve dogs’ health, welfare, and working performance.”

“Through this project we can expect to see dogs that are in better health and demonstrate superior working performance. So, in time, the farmer’s ‘best friend’ will be become an ‘even more valuable’ friend,” Mr O’Connor said.

You don’t have to be going the full hog to self-sufficiency to find this an intriguing and very informative book. Highly recommended.

TONY ORMAN

Calling all retired farmers

127 Redwood Valley Rd, Redwood Valley

Are you looking for a piece of paradise to call your own?

Nestled in the stunning Redwood Valley, this block of land boasts productive flats, rolling fields with fertile soil and natural water as well as Redwood Valley Scheme.

Substantial renovations have been undertaken on the home in recent years, including new kitchen, retrofitting double glazing and some internal layout changes to utilise the most of this 4/5 bedroom homes spaces and the fantastic outdoor areas.

No expense has been spared when it comes to the land either, from fencing, concrete pad Te Pari cattle yards, workshops and implement sheds – it has certainly been done right the first time. Don’t miss your chance to own this beautiful property is such a sought after location.

Price By Negotiation

Elisha Shefford

Toby Randall

M 027 233 9170 toby.randall@harcourts.co.nz

M 021 354 742 elisha.shefford@harcourts.co.nz

Farm Diversity – Multiple Purchase Options

0 Win Valley Rd, Dovedale

If you’re looking for a grazing block with forestry, large lifestyle or land banking in a growing and sort after area, this block is worth casting your eyes over.

Currently going through the process of a boundary adjustment, this block is part of a larger holding, on offer is a smaller 35HA approx grazing property with outstanding views, well set up for running cattle and 2 units of Dovedale water.

Other options include purchasing the entire block as it currently stands being 135 Ha with 34 Ha of planted forestry with 24.5 Ha registered into the ETS (Emissions Trading Scheme) with more cut over land set aside for further planting, as well as stands of Macrocarpa, Douglas Fir and some Eucalyptus, with approx. 55 Ha in grazing, Or 100 HA subject to boundary adjustment including all the forestry and 24 Ha approx. of grazing land.

Price on Application

Toby Randall

M 027 233 9170

Vaila Orchard Riwaka Tasman

85 Brooklyn Valley Rd, Brooklyn

For the first time if 150 plus years, this established family owned orchard with quality production history is offered to the open market.

Of the 51.87 HA, 23.77 HA are planted in a variety of apple and pear trees, over 46,000 plants, with irrigation rights in place.

The balance of the land is utilized for other improvements, including large pack house, cool store, workshops and a bonus of approx 30 HA of easy to steep hill planted in exotic forestry and natives. Excellent accommodation options for seasonal staff with stand alone workers cottages and a RSE accommodation unit, plus the main 4 bedroom dwelling, that has been renovated on an elevated sunny site – complete with a sea view.

For Sale

Toby Randall

M 027 233 9170

toby.randall@harcourts.co.nz

This month Fruition celebrates 20 years of working with growers in the Nelson- Marlborough region. Managing director, Greg Dryden says the consultancy offers independent specialist advice, technical services, research, and training to the Horticulture sector. With offices in Tasman and Marlborough, it is also part of a wider consultancy with offices in the Hawkes Bay and the Bay of Plenty.

“The attraction of work in Tasman has been the wide variety of projects and work streams we’ve been involved with, from planning to fruiton”, Greg says - with pun intended.

Greg says the core business is irrigation management with growers. Water management is ‘huge’ for the top of the south. The average person in the street will be unaware of the work that is being done in this regard.

“Our growers’ exports bring an enormous benefit to the region and none of this could happen without efficiently managed water,” says Greg., “growers certainly don’t waste water or nutrients.”

Celebrating 20 years of independent advice and services

Twenty years ago, Fruition began introducing soil moisture probes. Nowadays Fruition uses high precision neutron probes or automated near continuous soil moisture monitoring with satellite imagery alongside continuous satellite and high-resolution weather forecasting that can be accessed 24/7.

“It helps our growers to accurately monitor plant water use and deliver exactly the right quantities of water and nutrients to the active root zone of trees and crops. All of this enables efficient, reliable use of land and inputs,” says Greg.

Over time Fruition has grown alongside its growers. The company watches with pride as its Industry adopts new technologies and training programmes for workers, giving them greater opportunity to grow into advanced technical and management roles.

“Our trainings focus on a range of specialist requirements: plant health, soil and moisture management, agri-business, plus meeting international market requirements. We get massive job

satisfaction when younger people successfully take on grower and orchardist businesses which provide further work and prosperity for the region.”

“A major focus of our consultancy work is on increasing fruit value,” says Greg.

“This is the key driver of business profitability; we use the latest thinking and technology to optimise crop management. Growers find by managing soil moisture they gain confidence in their

overall management of a crop as it grows, the crop load and maturity, especially in dry weather.”

Fruition is involved in research across a range of scientific disciplines such as new varieties, canopy management, fruit quality and post-harvest performance.

“We work with the growers of apples, grapes, and hops, often collaborating with other research agencies, service providers and growers to solve problems and progress new ideas,” says Greg.

To anyone worried about regulation and Fresh Water Farm Plans, Greg Dryden says: “Don’t be. Our data is telling us it will only take a small amount of tweaking for most to be compliant in the Hort sector, particularly in grapes.”

Oliver O‘Connor is fifth generation fruit and vegetable grower on the Waimea Plains. “Fruitions consultant, Mike Nelson, has been a fantastic mentor for me. He’s taken the anxiety out of compliance around Freshwater Farm Planning and provided guidance. We now understand the science about why we need to have one and how to go about making positive change.” Fruition’s Marlborough Consultant, Jim Mercer, looks after Fruition’s services in Marlborough and says he really enjoys every new horticultural challenge that come along.

“The main focus of work in Marlborough is soil moisture monitoring and irrigation management plus research projects and financial analysis,” he says.

Since Jim’s arrival in 2005 he’s been working with growers to

YOUR BEER STARTS HERE™

Oliver O’Connor and Mike Nelson check out spring crops.

develop irrigation strategies based on soil type, varieties and the services required to get the best result. These days advanced technologies and monitoring help efficient and productive use of water enabling him to offer different options for growers and companies based on individual needs. “Fruition’s services have been a massive help for our business,” says the Chairman

of Marlborough Grape Growers and Nuffield Scholar, Ben McLauchlan of Rothay Vineyards. He owns and runs a 102h vineyard growing Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay grapes in Marlborough.

Ben confirms the benefits he’s achieved by adopting Fruitions services.

“We’ve gone from visual clues without understand-

Celebrating 20 years of independent advice and services

ing what’s happening under the soil, to using Sentek soil probes we now understand how deep irrigation goes and how often we need to water,” he says.

“We’ve also made efficiencies in both water and power use and beyond that to soil moisture and temperature fully understanding the importance this tool is for overall management of our grape crops.”

Thanks

for guiding our new Roxy™ apple to commercial success

commercial success

Congratulations and thanks to Greg and team at Fruition Horticulture for years of top technical service.

Bill & Erica Lynch, Redwood Valley, Richmond Bill & Erica Lynch Redwood Valley, Richmond

Congratulations and thanks to Greg and team at Fruition Horticulture for years of top technical service.

Bill & Erica Lynch, Redwood Valley, Richmond

Congratulations and thanks to Greg and team at Fruition Horticulture for years of top technical service.

Asking employees to work extra hours – a common fishhook for employers

HEATHER COLLINS

It’s not uncommon for employers to need their staff to work extra hours from time to time. However care should be taken so that directions to work additional hours are compliant with the Employment Relations Act (the “Act”), and recorded correctly in the employment agreement. In short employers need to make sure that a correct “availability provision” is included in the employment agreement if the Act requires it in the circumstances.

You will recall that “zero hours contracts” were made illegal some time ago. These were agreements which required employees to be available for all work offered, without compensation for being available, and without any guaranteed hours of work. As an alternative to zero hours contracts availability provisions were introduced to allow some flexibility to request employees work additional hours, while also providing employees with increased protection. Deciding on when an availability provision needs to be included in an employment agreement still manages to trip up employers. It’s important to understand when an availability provision is required, and if so what the clause should contain.

The key things to note are:

Historic Heritage challenges for landowners

An availability provision needs to be included in an employment agreement if an employer can offer work at their discretion and the employee is required to perform that work if requested.

The employer must have genuine reasons based on reasonable grounds for including the availability provision.

An availability provision must set out:

a) what specific hours the employee is required to be available for work (in addition to the specified guaranteed hours of work); and

b) reasonable compensation for the hours that the employee must be available to accept work. Where the employee is on a salary it can be agreed in the employment agreement that the salary includes compensation (provided that this is reasonable in the circumstances).

When considering reasonable compensation the employer should take into account the number of hours the employee needs to be available, the proportion of those hours in relation to the employees guaranteed hours of work, any restrictions on the employee during the hours they need to be available and the employees pay under the employment agreement.

A deficient availability provi-

sion will not be enforceable, meaning that the employee will not be required to perform the additional hours of work.

If an employment agreement allows the employee to turn down an offer of work in addition to their guaranteed hours of work, an availability provision is not required.

At Pitt & Moore Lawyers our employment team can prepare and review Employment Agreements and Employment Policies, as well as review your current employment practices as part of an employment health check-up for your business.

What sets us apart is that each of our Employment Lawyers are also immigration experts. This means that we can advise on all employment issues affecting your business, including issues connected to hiring migrant workers.

If you would like advice on this topic or any other employment related issues, please contact our Employment Team today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this publication is of a general nature and is not intended as legal advice. It is important that you seek legal advice that is specific to your circumstances.

ANNA BENSEMANN

Owning a property with a piece of New Zealand’s history adds layers of intrigue. The tales of land development, ownership shifts, trades, and sales, along with the challenges, clashes, and peculiarities tied to these interactions, offer a captivating narrative. However, embracing and commemorating this history poses its own obstacles, especially when landowners of sites with historic heritage wish to pursue any form of development. Such heritage might encompass a building listed in the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Register or mentioned in a district plan. Alternatively, heritage might manifest as sites where traces of historical habitation (pre-1900) are still in the ground or places with significance in Māori traditions and legends as former Māori occupation. These are grounds likely to yield archaeological artifacts. Landowners bear responsibilities under both the Resource Management Act (RMA) and the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act (2014), pertaining to both known and unknown sites. Within the RMA’s framework, District Councils hold the responsibility of recognising and managing impacts on historical heritage. In cases of buildings, this typically involves identifying structures and imposing regulations mandating resource consents for alterations and demolitions. These rules safeguard the heritage integrity of buildings and their surroundings. In cases of demolition, applicants generally need to demonstrate the lack of alternatives, often leading to public

notification for such applications. Navigating sites possibly linked to pre1900 occupation or established historical significance, however, presents greater complexity. Again, regulations in district plans and Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga registers come into play. The latter’s register constantly evolves as new discoveries emerge. District Plan regulations often relate to earthworks and vegetation clearance where soil disturbances are probable, frequently requiring consultation with local Iwi. Often, Iwi insists on an appointed monitor during work to guarantee proper recovery of any findings, with an immediate halt to operations if human remains are unearthed. Typically, resource consents include protocols for accidental discoveries, outlining procedures should contractors or landowners stumble upon items during construction. For those not captivated by history, it’s tempting to overlook the significance of unearthing an item, dismissing these provisions as mere nuisances. Yet, considering that a destroyed artifact cannot be revived, the consequences of obliterating a historically valuable site can be severe. Both governing laws boast enforcement capabilities involving substantial fines and considerable stress. Hence, understanding whether you possess a heritage site and thoughtfully deliberating any planned work on that site well before commencing excavation is a prudent approach.

Anna Bensemann, Senior Planner, Baseline Group Marlborough Ph: 03 578 7299, E: anna@blg.nz

Freshwater Farm Plans (FWFPs)

There is a lot for farmers and growers to understand about the up-andcoming Freshwater Farm Plans (FWFPs). It is anticipated that FWFPs will be rolled out in Tasman from January 2025. Over the coming months, we will use this space to provide clarity and understanding of what is involved and an explanation of some of the terms and phrases that are floating about.

FMU? What’s that?

A Freshwater Management Unit (FMU) is simply the wider catchment in which you farm. Tasman has seven FMUs, shown here. Take a moment to see where your farm is and which FMU you belong to. Each FMU will have its own unique CCCV as every FMU/Catchment has its own challenges and community values.

Today we will be answering questions about CCCVs and FMUs. We will be discussing these two terms and what they stand for, and how they relate to your Freshwater Farm Plan. But firstly, let us have a recap.

Freshwater Farm Plans will provide a practical way for farmers and growers to identify, manage and reduce the impact of farming on the freshwater environment. Each FWFP will need to:

What is CCCV?

Consider risks to freshwater health. Identify ways to manage the risks. Create an action plan to manage those risks.

The key output of the FWFP process will be a suite of actions along with timeframes, selected to manage identified risks to freshwater. Who will need a Freshwater Farm Plan?

Each FWFP will look different, as on-farm actions will be tailored to consider each farm’s unique landscape, activities, and local catchment. That last point is where Catchment Context, Challenges, and Values (CCCVs) come in. The CCCV is a collection of material about the catchment where you farm. It lists your catchment’s unique physical features, such as soils, climate, and water quality, and what the local community (including you as a farmer) value and their visions for a particular catchment. This information will help you to understand the unique environmental features, current environmental health status, cultural values, and priorities in relation to freshwater, and recreational sites in your catchment. How will I know what my CCCV is, and where do I find this information?

Right now, you do not need to take any action. It is the council’s role to provide the CCCV for each FMU. The Soil and Landuse Team are presently beavering away

Guardianship of the land

We are extremely pleased to share the outstanding restoration gains that have occurred at the Reilly Constructed Wetland on Berkett Creek, Motupipi.

Landowners Tony and Kathy Reilly have generously retired 7400m² of productive farmland for wetland restoration work, starting the previously drained and straightened waterway on its journey to improving the health of this important tributary.

Starting in mid-2021, Stage 1 was constructed in challenging ground conditions with Stage 2 completed in early May 2022.

The Reilly’s generosity has provided the canvas for this amazing work, with the Ministry for the Environment’s

If your farm involves the following land uses, you will require an FWFP:

• 20 hectares or more is arable or pastoral use.

• Five (5) hectares or more in horticultural use.

• 20 hectares or more in two or more of the land uses described above.

collecting and collating all relevant information relating to Catchment Context and Challenges. The Policy team also have their heads down busy consulting with your respective industry groups, and our communities to develop the newly required Regional Freshwater Plan. This plan will provide the Visions and Values as well as objectives, policies, and rules (the means for enacting the Visions and Values) for each FMU. For FMU’s that have degraded water quality, further detail may be included in a whole or partial FMU scale action plan.

In time we will present this information in a usable form so you can simply select what you need, apply this knowledge to identify how best to manage or reduce farming impacts on freshwater, and include it in your FWFP. All CCCV information will be made available to you via Tasman Rural Hub, a designated space on Tasman’s website. Check it out here: www.tasman.govt.nz/myregion/tasman-rural-hub-2/

A shoutout to our dairy farmers - Ka Pi tō mahi! Well done!

It’s time to acknowledge and give recognition for the hard work our dairy farmers have put into compliance with Farm Dairy Effluent regulations.

Every year the council assesses the disposal of treated dairy effluent to land or water through a compliance monitoring programme. Once again compliance was “very high” over the 2022/2023 milking season, and it is worth noting that there was no moderate or significant non-compliance this year. This is very pleasing.

All non-compliance that was found was minor and resolved quickly. Only seven of Tasman’s 116 dairy farms failed to achieve a full compliance status, though none of the breaches posed any risk of environmental contamination. Six farms had minor ponding of effluent on the ground, and one farm breached the 10m setback from an adjoining property when discharging effluent. Given the nature and scale of the breaches, Council resolved these matters with education around the rules for those operating the effluent system.

This exceptional level of compliance is not a ‘one-off’. In fact, the 2022/2023 year’s results are in line with the trend of greater than 90% full compliance achieved over the last

(MfE) Jobs for Nature programme and TDC’s team of passionate wetland restoration experts contributing to a blossoming project.

Stems planted in Autumn 2021 and Autumn 2022 are going gang busters and woody debris installed to improve instream habitat is largely intact despite

10 years. Just check out the graph below!

Dairy effluent disposal by its very nature carries risks to freshwater quality, ecosystem health, and receiving environments. Get it wrong and there are serious effects. Tasman’s dairy farmers’ commitment to industry good practices, investment in systems and processes, and taking responsibility for managing farm dairy effluent seriously always sees them as one of the best regions in the country for compliance. Ka Pai tō mahi! Well done!

numerous high flow events. The project has been so well supported by Tony and Kathy that we have pooled our resources to build Stage 3 this coming summer.

Project manager of Wetland Restoration Blair Reid says the Reilly project is another good example of farmers

displaying guardianship of the land with a view beyond their own lifetimes.

“The really inspiring aspect of this work is the coming together of two worlds that are sometimes seen as totally different, productive farming and environmental restoration, when in fact the two go hand in hand.”

WEST COAST

West Coast student-led nursery branching out

ELOISE MARTYN

Students from the West Coast, who are part of a conservation course specialising in nursery production, have managed, in just two years, to design and develop their own nursery and distribute just shy of 500 plants throughout their community.

The students come from Greymouth, Westland and South Westland High Schools and the course that they are part of is run through the West Coast Trades Academy and delivered by Papa Taiao Earthcare.

The students decided to build their own native tree nursery enterprise, Trees for Change, as they were struggling to ecosource trees for a planting project. Instead of giving up they built their own nursery from scratch.

Morgan Burrows, a second-year student, says ecosourcing is collecting seeds close to where they are to be planted.

“It means the plants will be suited to local conditions and more likely to survive.” .

Through the process the students also identified that many young people are disconnected from

nature and their communities, so they became motivated to do something with their nursery that would help connect rangatahi to the environment and their communities.

The group managed to secure funding through Greymouth Rotary and constructed a contract with them called ‘Trees for Māwhera’ (Māwhera is the Te reo kupu for Greymouth). This provided seed funding for the development of the nursery and funded their first large scale community planting project.

The Trees for Māwhera project sees every student from year 1 -13 within the Grey District gifted one native plant to plant within their community - over 2000 trees. The Trees for Change students lead the whole project, from organising a plan with the schools (each school is given three choices; take the tree home, plant them through their own project, or work with the T4C team to plant them out in a community project), to growing the trees, to tree distribution and in some instances support with the planting of trees.

“It’s great to work with the wider community and schools and have more young people involved,” sayss Delaney Black, a student involved in the project from Greymouth High School. Finn Mitchell, also from Greymouth High adds: “I like working with the kids and getting them planting and caring for trees. I like to be out there and getting a bit dirty.” Finn also says that it’s through the project that he has learnt a lot, not just about trees but about teamwork, paperwork and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone.

Avoid retirement and stay alive!

BARBARA STUART

Graeme and Christine Neylon arrived in Reefton 40years ago with their newborn son. What attracted them was the price of land and the opportunity to own their own farm in the Maimai Valley where they’re still milking their kiwi-cross herd once a day.

Forty years later and four more now-grown children and seven granddaughters, the family is well integrated into the West Coast community. Graeme was re-elected - after a three-year break - to the Buller District Council at the last election along with his daughter Linda Webb, who he says, with a lilt of pride, “won two more votes than me.” Both represent the Inangahua district.

Graeme first began serving on the Council in 1992 and recalls “as a newbie I was lucky to have a very good role model in Jan Coll.” Graeme is a trained Commissioner under the Resource Management Act and has held a number of council positions. Currently he chairs the Hearings and Planning

Committee and the District Alcohol Licensing Committee and is on the One District Plan committee, Primary Health Organisation, Inangahua Community Board, West Coast Health Localities Project, and Reefton and Maruia Springs Junction Reserve Subcommittees.

Graeme chuckles: “Avoid retirement and stay alive is my motto.”

Asked about the revitalisation of Reefton he says: “Twenty-Seven years ago the community started the planning process. There have been many good people involved since then.

“Our council realised there was an opportunity to encourage retirees from big cities who were asset-rich and cashflow poor to cash up their city homes and retire to Reefton. This brought people here who purchased and restored houses adding to the economy. Add in a John Bougen with his vision and enthusiasm, and our town now has a great vibe and is a gateway to the West Coast. The result is a credit to all who’ve been involved.”

Questioned about the recent announcement that the Federation

Mining company at Snowy River are test drilling for gold, Graeme says, “It’s good news for Reefton.” After the old Waiutu shaft collapsed in 1951 the mine was closed. At the time it was the richest goldmine on the

West Coast. The mining company has two drilling crews on the job, with a third arriving soon. The tunnelling is underneath Conservation land and directly into the bottom of the old shaft. These

This year the team have commercialised their nursery and entered the Young Enterprise Scheme. This puts them in a position to sell native plants to the general public as well as continue to supply plants for planting projects.

“We have the opportunity to provide a lot more trees for other planting projects, but we require funding,” says Delaney. The group has multiple non-profit community projects that would like to source their native trees.

“It would be cool to have local companies support the work we are doing as well as support the environment.” says Finn, “And put their name behind something great,” adds Morgan.

If you are interested in working with the Trees for Change team to set up a tree gifting or planting project for a group you’re connected with, please email them on trees4change.nz@gmail.com. Alternatively, if you or your company want to sponsor a tree gifting or planting project, please get in touch. You can keep up to date with the team and their amazing work on Facebook under Trees for Change NZ or@treesforchangenz on Instagram.

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days there’s optimism in the town that the mine is still viable. This will mean housing for up to 150 people will be needed for about 10 years. Reefton could have another boom time on the horizon.

High school students from the Trees for Change business, part of the Trees Māwhera project, and Cobden Primary School, planting out a hauora (wellbeing) garden in their school. Photo: Supplied.

Hectre wins not once, not twice, but three years in a row

STAFF REPORTER

NZ based fruit tech startup Hectre, has been announced as winner of the “Overall Supply Chain Solution of The Year” category in the 4th annual AgTech Breakthrough Awards. The awards program is conducted by AgTech Breakthrough, a leading market intelligence organization that recognizes the top companies, technologies, and products in today’s global agricultural and food technology markets.

Hectre has developed transformative technology for the global fruit growing and packing industry, and it’s focus on delivering value across the supply chain, has set the company apart from other providers. This is the third year in a row that the company has been named a winner in the awards program.

“We are proud to recognize Hectre with the ‘Overall Supply Chain Solution of The Year’ award for the innovation they are bringing to such an essential industry. Hectre brings value to multiple points in the supply chain, supporting industry to streamline key processes, and access valuable data earlier than ever before. With Hectre’s range of solutions, growers and packers can drive efficiency and performance, and gain greater insights for informed decision making and profitability,” said Bryan Vaughn, Managing Director, AgTech Breakthrough. “Most fruit tech companies play in one market space, like labour management or fruit sorting. Each market has complexities

Nelson Federated Farmers Update for September

and a never-ending collection of unique use cases. It’s a huge challenge to successfully crossover into additional areas of the supply chain as Hectre have.”

The combination of Orchard Management PLUS Early Fruit Sizing solutions that Hectre offers spans both growers and packers. The valuable offering has seen Hectre take an industry leadership position, signing on premier customers such as Washington Fruit & Produce, Sage Fruit, Cherri Global, Borton Fruit, BC Tree Fruits, Belle Harvest and more. The company’s technology is now being picked up by fruit leaders in South America and Europe, as Hectre continues its global expansion.

In the post-harvest space, Hectre’s early fruit sizing AI solution Spectre, sizes apples, pears, cherries, citrus and onions. Spectre provides reliable early data to support successful sales, storage and packing decisions, positively impacting pack planning capabilities, driving down repack rates and fruit loss, and enabling optimal sales.

Two Spectre core solutions have been released: A handheld option where users simply take a photo of a bin of fruit on their phone or tablet and receive sizing results in seconds; and a top-down solution where a camera is installed above arriving trucks. More than 5,000 pieces of fruit are detected and sized by Spectre Top Down in one truck pass. Early colour grading results are also available.

Hectre’s grower innovations include Digital QC, where grow-

ers can track and assess picker performance and provide evidence-based coaching for an improved pick and pack out. Growers can identify and address picking issues early with Hectre and get more fruit to market. These evidence-based insights have become critical as the cost of labour and regulation continue to climb.

The company also helps to simplify labour management with their Digital Timesheet solution which automates complex pay structures including hourly wages, piece rates, minimum wages, group picks, and more. Hectre’s auto calculation capability, plus data flow directly to payroll reports, means growers and their teams save time, reduce errors, and are supported to meet compliance requirements.

Matty Blomfield, Hectre Co-founder and CEO said, “It’s been another huge year at Hectre. Our orchard management and AI fruit sizing solutions are now in the hands of growers and packers across four continents. Our innovation pace is faster than ever, enabling delivery of meaningful benefits across the global supply chain. To be named winners in the global AgTech Breakthrough Awards, not once, not twice, but three years in a row, really underlines the value our talented and committed team continue to bring to industry.”

This year’s AgTech Breakthrough Awards program attracted more than 1,750 nominations from over 15 different countries throughout the world.

Strong Tasman compliance

Positive news for Tasman’s dairy farmers who have continued their strong record of compliance with effluent disposal regulations. Of the 116 dairy farms across the district that had active discharges during the 2022/23 milking season, only seven – just 6% of farms – weren’t fully compliant. Local Feds President Stephen Todd says “Dairy farmers are doing a great job and have made big investments into effluent systems to be compliant, it’s great to see the good work of our local farmers being recognised. And well done to Council for acknowledging the good work that farmers are doing.”

Join us for lunch

A planned spring farmers lunch, hosted by Nelson Federated Farmers and St Arnaud Rural Women, is scheduled for Wednesday the 11th of October 12pm-2pm at the St Arnaud community hall and open to all famers and growers from anywhere in the Top of the South. Rural Women member Marg Anderson says, “Join us for delicious free lunch, leave your boots at the door and enjoy catching up with farming friends and neighbours.” President Stephen Todd adds “It’s a good opportunity to have a yarn, it looks like a tough year ahead so it’s good to remember that you are not alone in this. Come have a yarn over lunch and share your thoughts.” No RSVP is needed and there is no cost.

Young Farmers Club

Tasman Valley Young Farmers Chair, Blair Anglesey, reported that the club had recently held a successful butchery demonstration and thanked local farmer Gary Omlo for showing them a

step by step break down of turning a lamb into roasts and chops, which is an important and valuable skill for any farmer to have. Due to the busyness of calving and lambing the club has not been as active as it usually is however to celebrate the end of calving the group will be hosting a calving and lambing BBQ in early October, info and dates to come.

Farmers confidence hits historic low

A recent survey of over 1000 dairy, sheep, beef, and arable farmers has found that confidence is at historic lows, says Federated Farmers National President Wayne Langford. “Farmers are dealing with a lot at the moment with high interest rates, huge inflation, and a steep decline in both meat and milk prices they receive for their products,” Langford said. “We’re also facing an unprecedented level of regulatory change that is heaping on costs, undermining profitability, and creating huge uncertainty for farmers. Unfortunately, all these challenges have arrived at the same time, which just compounds the pressure farmers are feeling - it’s just not sustainable. The four biggest concerns for farmers were debt, interest and banks, regulation and compliance costs, and climate change and Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) policy. This is the second successive farmer confidence survey to set a new record low with a steep decline over the last six months - so we’re sounding the alarm,” Langford said.

“This should serve as a wake-up call for all political parties, banks, and processors that something needs to urgently change. There needs to be a real focus on reducing the costs and uncertainty farmers are facing.”

TASMAN

From farm gate to store manager

BARBARA STUART

Julia Young was raised in Marlborough. After working on several farms located around New Zealand, she and husband Andrew share milked on a Dairy farm in Canvastown on the Bryant property.

As their two girls got older, the couple sort a lifestyle change to spend more time with their children. They sold their cows and shifted to a lifestyle block at Upper Moutere for a few years selling raw milk from their gate.

Now days Julia is Store Manager at the new PGG Wrightson/Fruitfed supplies, Richmond complex in Estuary Place off lower Queen Street. She carries out the day to day running of the Store, Customer Service, Stock Control and looks after a team of five who work alongside her.

“Importantly,” she says with a lilt of humour in her voice, “making sure stock supplies are ordered and delivered to clients.”

Julia says, “the new store has safer access for both clients and staff, its warmer and more welcoming.” The shift from the old store was well executed, keeping both stores open until the shift was completed.

The 6th Gen Farmer born into the lifestyle

ELOISE MARTYN

Being the sixth generation on his family’s sheep and beef farm, located down Win Valley Road in Dovedale, Bryce Win says that he’s looking forward to continuing in the footsteps of those who have farmed the same land before him.

Bryce explains the aspects of farming he most enjoys are the hands-on work, the ever-evolving problem solving that’s required, plus he loves the peaceful solitude. But he balances that by belonging to the Young Farmers and playing rugby.

The Win family arrived in Nelson in 1842 and the two Win brothers started to open the land in Dovedale in 1863, selling the hand-hewn timber as their only source of income.

Bryce’s dad, Arthur, a Win 5th generation farmer, explains: “They had a sawmill on the farm and grew a small amount of tobacco way back, as well as contracting out as haymakers. Like many in the valley they milked cows for cream to sell and used the skim milk to raise pigs, to eat and sell. Eventually by 1975 there was enough land cleared to run a decent mob of sheep.”

Nowdays the family runs around 2,000 sheep and 180 beef cattle. “I was born and bred into farming, it is a great lifestyle, I love my outside office!” exclaims Arthur.

Arthur, and wife Debbie, are both grateful to be transitioning the farm, and its responsibilities, to their son, Bryce. “We are really lucky that Bryce is interested in the farm and enjoys the work. There are not so many

families now who have the opportunity to transition their farm to their child,” Debbie explains.

Debbie says the transition is going along nicely and having Bryce on the farm has allowed her to use more of her time on catchment care work which she is passionate about. Debbie is a firm advocate for wool.

“One of the things that disappoints me the most, is we no longer treasure wool,” she says,“wool is a wonderful, biodegradable product, but because of the plastic revolution, wool has been reduced to a waste product. I hope this will change!”

Debbie Win

a health requirement to remove it. Farming is a great way of life, but there’s not a lot of incentive in it anymore. It’s tough going, there are regulations challenging farmers in all sectors, thick and fast. It’s hard to keep up with. Luckily Bryce is keen to work through it all, he is young enough to adapt if needed.” Bryce agrees: “We have to be able to adapt quickly, but without rushing into anything too fast, either.”

Now in the full swing of lambing both Bryce and Arthur have busy, long days and say it’s great to be working side by side. Orphan lambs are one of Debbie’s favourite parts of farming.

“The boys do two rounds a day checking lambs and ewes,”she says,“we can end up with quite a few orphans. I hand feed each one for 3-4 days, then transition them onto a bucket or the automatic feeder, depending on numbers. It is a busy six weeks or more. The grandkids come and stay - they love helping me feed the lambs; they give them names and they also feed the calves with Bryce.”

Arthur shares this view and extends on it. “Wool used to be a form of income and now it’s just

The farm was heavily impacted by facial eczema, due to the warm, wet, weather over the last year, losing around 200 ewes and 100 lambs. “It was a bad season for facial eczema for us alright,” Arthur adds, “ we’re pleased it is cooler and drier at present.”

As for the 6th gen farmer he says he really enjoys having family actively involved on the farm with him. “My great-greatgreat-great grandfather started our farm, the fact that I have the opportunity to continue to care for the land and keep the farm going is really awesome,” says Bryce.

The Win Family – Arthur, Debbie and Bryce Win, on their family farm down Win Valley Road Dovedale. Photo Supplied.

One of the things that disappoints me the most, is we no longer treasure wool

Julia Young

Importance of addressing lamb mortality emphasised

TONY ORMAN

Animal welfare in striving to lower lambing mortality should be a top priority for sheep farmers says Marlborough Federated Farmer’s Meat and Wool section chairman Richard Dawkins in his report under the Kellog Rural Leadership Programme.

“Lambing mortality can be compared to the bobby calf issue in dairy, where it is market forces driving change – not animal welfare regulations,” he said.

Richard Dawkins said the sheep farming industry must consider whether the increasingly conscientious customers and consumers will accept high mortality levels in sheep flocks, particularly if they understand the inflated death rates following storm events and the typical wastage in higher-risk animals.

The New Zealand sheep in-

dustry has become increasingly productive in recent decades. This has been achieved primarily through the fecundity and improved feeding of modern sheep breeds. While impressive, this world-leading production has created unintended consequences in the form of excess mortality rates. This is most notable in triplet-bearing ewes, mated hoggets, their offspring, and all lambs in adverse weather conditions.

In his Kellog Rural Leadership Programme report Richard Dawkins emphasised the need for research to ascertain accurate wastage rates, identify innovators who have high survival rates, education systems to transfer the knowledge to farmers in general and keep the issue paramount in sheep farm management.

All the contributors to his report agreed lamb survival is a

potential issue for the industry. The report highlighted that improved survival has multiple benefits through improved farm income, animal welfare, eco-efficiencies, market perceptions and farmer sentiment.

Important to note was the ‘lowest hanging fruit’ to improving survival was feeding, nutrition and body scoring of ewes, he said.

“The precedent is there in the dairy industry and bobby calves. On the back of one animal welfare campaign, market requirements surpassed regulations. The sheep sector has the opportunity to improve these animal welfare outcomes, before impractical solutions are enforced,” said Richard Dawkins.

The full report titled “Addressing Mortality in New Zealand Lambing Systems” can be found at ruralleaders. co.nz

Accelerated the landowners’ planting aspirations

WAIHAERE MASON and BARBARA FAULLS

Co-chairs,

Te Hoiere Kaitiaki Charitable Trust

On the dairy farm of Mason and Rebecca Coleman-Cowie in Lower Pelorus, the Te Hoiere Project assisted with planting at a wetland area and former effluent pond. The two hectares of planting included a foundational species mix from carex to

totara. This new planting connects with existing native bush, creating a longer corridor for native biodiversity to thrive. Before the project, this farm had already fenced off a wetland on the property and were looking to undertake planting but were constrained due to time and resources. The project not only accelerated the landowners’ planting aspirations, but also supported the release of dung beetles

on the property.

Mason says that planting the unproductive land was a no-brainer.

“It was already in an area that was unproductive. It’s a big catchment of water that rolls off those hills. We weren’t going to incorporate the bank but there were no cows on it. After hemming and hawing, we thought we should do this, and it would be cool to make a bit of a sanctuary out of it.”

The dairy farm of Mason and Rebecca Coleman-Cowie in Lower Pelorus. Photo: Supplied.

Will increasingly conscientious customers and consumers accept high mortality levels? Photo: File.

Marlborough Federated Farmers

Forestry investors ‘looking elsewhere’

Forestry plantings look set to dry up after this year as industry frustration over the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) uncertainty grows, prompting investors to look elsewhere.

That bleak warning came from Chris Dawkins, the forestry section chairman of Marlborough Federated Farmers.

Speaking at a recent meeting of Federated Farmers, he said the recent package of proposed changes to the ETS, and to forestry planting rules, leaves little reason for foresters to want to invest beyond the plantings they have in front of them for this season.

Recently the government announced plans to give local councils more powers to block out and control the planting of permanent pine forest plantations, mostly for what is termed, ”carbon farming.”

Forestry Minister Peeni Henare said the changes are about getting the right tree in the right place, by seeing fewer pine forests planted on farmland and more on less-productive land.

“We are empowering local councils to decide which land can be used for plantation and carbon forests through the resource consent process,” Henare said.

Government ministers are grappling with cross-purpose priorities around carbon forests, which are planted with the primary purpose of earning carbon credits and not har-

vested and replanted.

The political and policy problem for the government is that planting more forests helps New Zealand meet its carbon budget, but has other consequences.

One is a fear that productive farmland will be planted in pine trees and depopulate rural communities. On the other hand, there are the rights of property owners to make choices about land use.

Take the Money Trail

Adding to the quandary is the environmental perspective where those emitting industries (e.g., Air NZ) will tend to plant trees instead of reducing emissions if that is a cheaper option. Māori forestry interests added to the tangle by arguing that a way to earn money off some of their highly marginal land was being removed through a change in the rules. Then again, National recently said if elected it would introduce limits for new farm-toforest conversions – including a moratorium on whole-farm conversions to exotic forestry on high-quality land from 2024.

Dawkins said that proposals to give councils more power over what forests go where, and the halving of the carbon price since December, were particularly hard for the sector to bear.

“The message has clearly gone out that forestry investors, particularly on farmland, are not wanted,” he said.

“Overseas investors are rela-

Tips from the Resilient Farmer

ANDREW RITCHIE

tively indifferent to where their forestry investment goes and can consider Scotland, Canada and Wales as options.”

Estimates by NZ Forestry Service are that up until early 2023, 474 million trees were planted under the One Billion Trees scheme with an additional 120 million to be planted this year. In addition, there have been significant plantings by farmers who have not applied to the fund, or who have been funded through projects such as catchment groups and hill country erosion programmes, said Dawkins.

Everyone’s Gun-shy

The total area under exotic forests to April last year was estimated at 1.76 million ha, with about 45,000ha of new plantings, up from 34,000ha the year before.

“Everyone is now gun-shy given the proposals coming out from both Labour and National,” says Dawkins.

Of particular concern to investors is any retrospective legislation that could further impact carbon prices. The collapse in carbon prices from a high of $89 a unit late last year had already wiped $4 billion of wealth from farmers, investors and iwi who had invested in ETS forestry.

“The removal of forestry as a land use option will see farm prices drop back to historic dry-stock farm levels, possibly as much as $8000 -10,000 a hectare,” he said.

Author of ‘The Resilient Farmer,’ Doug Avery has some tips for weathering the current storm affecting farmers. Low prices, increasing costs, a raft of government regulations, increasing interest rates and impending emission charges compound to make for a tough period for those on the land.

“The first thing to remember is that it has happened before and will no doubt happen again. Such is the cyclical nature of farming. All you can do is to do your best.”

He remembers when subsidies were removed overnight in the eighties. His immediate reaction was to go to town and approach his suppliers, inform them of his financial situation, and try to work out a deal so that all involved could survive.

“Communicate and negotiate as soon as possible with your bank so

that they understand what is happening. They are there to help and advise it is not in their interest to see a business going bankrupt. They need to protect their investment in you.”

“We are part of a bigger system which must be accommodated. As the ‘Primary Producer’ we are the first to take a hit but also the ones to recover first.” There is no event that does not have a positive, if you look hard enough. It is important to team up with someone you respect for help and advice, be it mental or physical. Since capital ‘on farm’ projects may have to be set aside, think about personal projects and focus on a goal. Climb a mountain, swim fifty lengths of the pool, be grateful for what you have and remember there is always someone worse off than you. A farm will always be a good place to weather a storm. You will certainly not starve to death.

TONY ORMAN

Doug Avery

local forestryupdate

Market Update

MARCUS MUSSON

Forest 360

There’s been a fair amount of press around the issues the forest industry has been facing including an over-reliance on China and the risk of one market taking 60% of your products. It doesn’t matter if we’re talking logs or processed lumber, if the level of demand doesn’t support your level of supply, things are going to get stickier. It’s no comfort (or surprise) that our dairy cousins are now also facing the same China conundrum with oversupply issues forcing Fonterra to drop their payout by a dollar per kilo of milk solid putting the payout in negative territory.

Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI). The 2023 figures forecast dairy export revenue to increase 14% to $25.1B, meat and wool to decrease 3% to $11.9B and forestry to decrease 1% to 6.5B. I would expect many in the big three sectors will be thinking these numbers are overly optimistic considering the significant headwinds we are collectively facing.

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To put some reality around this payout reduction, every $1/kilo drop wipes $1 billion from the NZ Inc income which makes the election candy throwing a bit more difficult.

The general feel amongst the primary sectors is that we are all in for a tough ride medium term especially those of us heavily exposed to China. MPI and are a bit more optimistic in their Situation

August At Wharf Gate (AWG) log pricing has seen a solid increase with A-grade now in the very high $110 to early $120/m3 mark. This lift is due to reducing log inventories, a flow-on of increased domestic wholesale prices in China and reduced shipping costs. Current off-port softwood sales in China are running in the 70,000m3 per day level which sounds huge, but is subdued compared to previous years and only marginally ahead of deliveries. We are currently entering the season of higher historical demand but, as the Chinese construction sector (and general economy) it’s unlikely that there’ll be any significant rise in construction activity. Although NZ supply has reduced due to the impact of the lower prices, rubbish weather

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and cost increases, the actual supply reduction won’t manifest in China until this month and buyers can see a reduction in vessel bookings going forward. There is, however, a resounding warning from Chinese buyers that we need to be very careful around pushing prices up too quickly in response to a demand increase based on reduced supply. One quick glance at the graph above shows a race to the top is almost always followed by a swift race to the bottom. We are continuing seeing an attrition rate of harvest contractors, much of this is on the East Coast and regions that have a higher exposure to woodlots. The volume of repossessed or handed back logging gear sitting in machinery yards in Rotorua and Taupo is worrying and will influence permanent supply volumes. The silver lining may be a more stable price going forward as the ability for the harvesting sector to react to price increases is diminished.

Carbon prices improved following the Government accepting the Climate Change Commission’s recommendations courtesy of a recent high court ruling. NZU

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pricing shot up from $34 to $65 on opening following the ruling, however trading since that has been subdued and current trades are at the $58 level. There’s still a considerable level of nervousness from investors around what the current or next government will do in terms of ETS policy settings and this is unlikely to change until after the election. Domestic log demand remains solid although framing timber sales are decidedly average. Pruned logs are in short supply, especially in regions predominantly supplied by the private/woodlot sector. This shortage is unlikely to change until export prices break through the $125/m3 mark.

The future of our industry is in do-

mestic processing, whether it be timber, biofuel, engineered products, or bioplastics. There’s more to wood than simply cutting logs into 4x2’s. Technology is changing rapidly, and sustainability of building products and fuel is front of mind for many consumers. This will take significant investment in processing and commercially viable pathways to setting facilities up in terms of reduced red tape and protracted/unwarranted consultation. We’re pipe dreaming if we think we can handle all of NZ’s 30 million tonne harvest domestically, however any decent long-term decrease of our export supply would have huge benefits in terms of stability of price and hence forest owner returns.

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local forestryupdate

NZ Bio Forestry signs biochemicals MOU

STAFF REPORTER

Japan based Refine Holdings and NZ Bio Forestry have signed an MoU in Tokyo. This MoU outlines a joint research and commercial programme to develop a suite of biochemicals from Pinus radiata for the automotive, technology, EV battery, and solvent markets.

NZ Bio Forestry CEO, Wayne Mulligan, says NZ Bio Forestry has invested five years in refining Pinus radiata at tonne scale. “We have completed the technical feasibility and commercial validation to form biochemicals, bioenergy and biomaterials. This work with Refine Holdings will be undertaken with our Taiwan partner, INSPIRA Applied BioSolutions which owns the proprietary bioconversion technology platform.

“We’re focusing our biochemical platform to meet the needs of Refine Holdings in

illustrating how biochemical refining enables development of non-fossil energy, material, and chemical products. We are proud to be working with Refine Holdings in Taiwan and Japan,” Mulligan says. “NZ Bio Forestry believes AotearoaNew Zealand can be at the forefront of connecting with exciting markets seeking new and globally relevant biochemical applications.”

President/CEO Dr. Yasuhito Kawase of Refine Holdings believes building a sustainable society by replacing underground resources with terrestrial, non-fossil, resources is an urgent task for humankind. This includes all chemical materials and energy consumed through manufacturing processes.

“We are excited to cooperate with NZ Bio Forestry and hope that this project, which realises effective use of unused biomass resources in New Zealand, will

provide practical chemical products such as organic solvents all over the world,” Dr. Kawase says. “Combining recycling of those solvents is one of the Refine group’s specialties. We aim to achieve a true cradle-to-cradle-circular bioeconomy. We aim to be a role model of a sustainable society,” he says.

About:

Refine Holdings, a Japanese company, is one of the largest solvent recyclers in East Asia. It specialises in distillation technologies and has four realms of business including toll solvent recycling service, solvent recycling system engineering, bio-based solvent development, and unutilized nature-derived material development.

NZ Bio Forestry specialises in converting softwood (Pinus radiata) to help companies transition to non-fossil and petroleum-free products. It offers exciting developments for the forestry and wood manufacturing sector, enabling technologies to link those sectors with higher value national and global customers.

Only half of dairy farmers reporting fertilizer use

New data shows that only half of the dairy farmers around the country that were required to report their use of synthetic nitrogen fertiliser by the end of July have done so.

New Rules from the National Environmental Standard for Freshwater came into effect at the end of July 2021. These limited the use of synthetic nitrogen to 190kg per hectare per year and enforced dairy farmers with a land area larger than 20

heartrates to report their synthetic nitrogen fertiliser use for the previous year. Using synthetic nitrogen over this amount and not completing a nitrogen use ;report can trigger a breach of the Resource Management Act.

Back to basics

JOHN BARNES Fertilizer New Zealand

For soil to be classified as soil, certain ingredients need to be in place. The most important of these are: It must have Carbon and organic matter. It must have Calcium. It must have Life – be a living system.

It must have Carbon

A lot has been said about Carbon in recent times. Carbon is mobile – it shifts from the soil to the atmosphere and can be transported back into the soil. It is found in trees and in plants. It is also a vital part of all living creatures including humans. Carbon is part of our DNA. All soil must have some Carbon in it. We are being told that our soils are being depleted of Carbon which, if this is true, should be of concern to every farmer.

It must have Calcium

In a farming scene Calcium is so important. Calcium is a key com-

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ponent in milk. Calcium is a key component in bone health. Without Calcium it is almost impossible to have a healthy animal.

It must have Life

Once there is Carbon and Calcium in the soil, there is a home. Soil life equals the amount of life above the ground. This means soil life should be about 2 tonnes of beneficial fungi, microbes, earthworms and the like. Soil should be teaming with life. One way to check for life in the soil is to count the earthworms. Soil should contain 10 –20 earthworms in a 200x200x200 or 8 inches cubed.

Another thing is to check for grass grub and the like. If there is a lot in the soil, there will be limited biological life.

So, let us go back to basics and check for Carbon, Calcium and the Bio Life. To get more of these three components into your soil, you might consider VitaLife Calcium.

For further information, give us a call on 0800 337 869.

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Danielle Brown 0221605094

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STAFF REPORTER

Clover, ultimate animal tucker

Different mixes were recommended for different geographical areas and classes of country; hence todays multi species mixes may be seen as a revisiting of earlier practises.

front as well with mature plants containing up to 2.5% calcium, three to four times the amount in grasses.

The primary reason clover is included in permanent pasture mixes is its ability to fix nitrogen, an essential growth element. Permanent pasture seed mixes used in the 1950’s and 60’s always contained clover, often two whites and a red, to ensure maximum performance. At that time the best grazed pastures grew between 16,000kg and 17,000kgDM/ha annually.

The reason for red clover to be included was because it had a longer stronger stem than whites allowing it to compete for sunlight in late spring and summer when high levels of pasture cover were recommended.

Many of the mixes contained six different grasses that included both annual and perennial ryes.

The benefits of clover however go a good deal further than just supplying nitrogen free of charge.

Clover, even mature clover is more digestible and higher in energy than grass particularly over summer.

Grasses go to seed due to a combination of sunshine hours and soil temperatures. In the Waikato and Bay of Plenty it’s the first week in November when soil temperatures reach 20°C.

In Southland that may occur a little later with soil temperatures still below 20°C, however daylight hours are longer.

Seed formation is a natural survival process with synthetic N applications and short grazing intervals having limited beneficial effect.

Provided there’s sufficient soil moisture clovers thrive at the higher temperatures. Well manged pure clover swards are capable of 18,000kgDM/ha annually with most of that occurring over summer. Being more digestible animals can eat more kgs of feed in their naturally allotted grazing times resulting in more rapid growth. Those fattening lambs appreciate the value of clover dense swards, with lambs reaching target weight ahead of their competitors.

To grow young stock quickly a diet high in calcium is essential and clover delivers on that

A dense clover dominated sward during summer also provides shade reducing moisture loss. Longer intervals between grazings have little impact on feed quality with mature clover easily harvested for hay.

Building a wedge of dense quality pasture is usually easily achieved by lengthening the grazing interval during November and December to a genuine 30 days by Christmas. December, based on many years of pasture monitoring, is the most reliable growth month in the year. By extending grazing intervals to 30 days by month end means paddocks are grazed no more than three times prior to autumn rain arriving. Because clover seeds prolifically, creating the soil conditions that favour its growth is all that is normally required with higher calci-

um inputs resulting in a steadily strengthening clover base. Functional Fertiliser developed CalciZest, a lime-based product containing soft carbons inoculated with a proprietary mix of beneficial fungi and bacteria over twenty years ago.

Independent measuring showed a doubling, by weight, of the clover content of treated pasture compared to conventionally fertilised properties.

An application at any time will also improve physical soil structures allowing plant roots to grow deeper utilising moisture and nutrient from lower depths. With oil prices steadily lifting the cost of synthetic N products will increase and with depressed prices for meat, milk, and other commodities now is the best possible time to shift to a lower-cost, sustainable, no risk soil fertility model.

For more information contact Peter on 0800 843 809.

NZ has Foot and Mouth strategy

ZOE JUNIPER

An amazing team at MPI have worked very hard over the last twelve months to develop NZ’s first Disease Management Strategy for foot and mouth disease.

The new strategy that outlines the approach New Zealand would take to stamp out a foot and mouth disease outbreak, in the unlikely event it occurred here.

The Disease Management Strategy has been developed in collaboration with primary sector industry bodies, iwi, and other government agencies.

It sets out the framework for disease management in a foot and mouth disease response, and outlines the activities required to stamp

Better breeding worth for better herds and better profits

DairyNZ

coming weeks.

cient animals.

out the disease and return New Zealand to freedom status.

The strategy is a key product of a 2022 Task Force programme to review and enhance a wide range of preparedness plans for foot and mouth disease.

It demonstrates New Zealand’s capability to manage the disease to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) and puts us alongside partner countries Australia, UK, Canada, and the US who also publish management strategies for foot and mouth disease.

The strategy is a living document and will have further review in future to account for changes in the WOAH codes and advances in technologies and strategies.

The introduction of an independent, accessible, and internationally competitive breeding worth system is about improving profits for dairy farmers and improving the Kiwi dairy herd.

We’re aiming to deliver an updated Better Breeding Worth system by 2024. We believe this will give kiwi dairy farmers the best chance of achieving internationally competitive genetic gains.

Thanks to farmers and sector who took the time to engage in the recent consultation and provide their feedback. We received our last official submission from the sector on 11 July. We will be publishing a summary of what the feedback has told us in the

New Zealand’s rate of genetic gain in our national dairy herd has lagged behind our competitors over the last 10 years.

DairyNZ, through New Zealand Animal Evaluation Limited (NZAEL) wants to improve Breeding Worth to ensure Kiwi dairy farmers remain internationally competitive.

We believe that we need to act now to bridge the gap –to do this we’re proposing a new Breeding Worth system that’s independent, inclusive, and more accurate.

NZAEL is a wholly owned subsidiary of DairyNZ and manages the National Breeding objective and produces the Breeding Worth Index that is used to rank cows and bulls on their expected ability to breed profitable and effi-

NZAEL believes that using genomic information in Breeding Worth is key to increasing profits for Kiwi dairy farmers and improving outcomes for the entire New Zealand dairy sector. Improving Breeding Worth (BW) with genomics is about improving genetic gain – breeding animals that are more resilient, more profitable, and easier to farm. By breeding for selected traits such as milk production and quality, live weight, fertility and gestation length, a farmer’s herd can gain efficiency and profitability with every generation.

A key factor for increasing genetic gain is reducing the generational interval by using younger sires. Using genomics can decrease

the generational interval from at least five years to just three years. Using genomics, New Zealand herds can benefit from improved genetic gain at a faster rate than with the traditional daughter-proving process.

The proposed new system would: Have improved accuracy by including all relevant New Zealand genomic and phenotypic information.

Have one independent source of Breeding Worth, enabling farmers to better compare bulls across providers, with the knowledge they are using the same credible data to inform their choices.

Be inclusive, giving all dairy farmers the ability to utilise the NZAEL breeding worth data to improve their herds.

Burridge

excellent offering saw the market rebound strongly after the slight correction in the previous South Island sale two weeks ago, with the mid-micron by far the most standout type. In general, the crossbred wools were firmly in sellers favour especially those lots showing good preparation. An early offering of new season merino wool was also met with strong competition and almost a full clearance from the bench.

The rise of the Red Kiwi

ELOISE MARTYN

“The colour red is really important to certain countries,” says Evan Heywood from Heywood Orchards in Golden Bay.

In China red is auspicious and associated with life-generating energy such as the sun, blood and fire.

It is the colour of celebrations and prosperity, so it seems fitting that Zespri have reported that the number of RubyRed Kiwifruit being exported, compared to last year, has almost tripled, with 330,000 trays of the red fruit being shipped to Japan, China, Singapore and Taiwan.

“The RubyRed have a few points of difference to the green or gold kiwifruit. It looks different and its flavour profile is different,” says Evan.

The RubyRed also has a different nutritional value containing antioxidants such as anthocyanins that are naturally occurring

pigments within the fruit giving the fruit its red colour. Research shows that anthocyanins can contribute to improved mood and wellbeing.

“It’s all these subtle differences that make this variety appealing to new customers, both for the

export and domestic markets,” says Evan.

It’s only the second season of commercial production of the RubyRed and orchards such as Heywood’s in Golden Bay are a few years off harvesting the RubyReds.

Horticulture Conference Week, fresh and familiar perspectives

NADINE TUNLEY

Our industry’s inaugural Horticulture Conference Week (31 July to 4 August) was a rich smorgasbord of content, relevant to the entire industry in the context of the wider, food and fibre sector and its dynamic nature. While themes were familiar – the environment, workforce, regulation, rising costs, competition and uncertainty – there were many fresh and thought-provoking perspectives.

While no one was denying the challenges, the tone of the week was forward looking and positive. Engagement was often at its highest when politicians – present, aspiring and past – shared their perspectives and ideas with the audience.

Given, the challenges, it was no accident that several speakers touched on mental health, and how critical it is to look after yourself and the people around you. The importance of people was emphasised repeatedly, with one major grower saying they ‘started off

growing plants but now [they] grow people’. Speakers also often talked about storytelling, with one saying that ‘story telling is not an antidote for real progress in areas that matter to consumers’ – minimising environmental impact and ensuring everyone involved in growing is treated well. People and their contribution to the industry were celebrated, especially at the RSE and Horticulture Conference awards dinner, which was a sold-out gala affair.

Once again, I would like to thank our speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, and other partici-

pants, especially the growers who invested their time and money by attending and supporting the industry. Acknowledgements of the contribution that HortNZ makes to the industry were humbling and appreciated. Thanks too to all the HortNZ and product group staff that made conference week the success that it was!

It’s difficult to get everything right at a weeklong conference but participants being spoiled for choice, because there were so many good speakers, can only be a good thing.

The message was our industry’s future is bright if we take a joined-up approach, informed by strategy, connection, and two-way communication. This does take energy, which has been in short supply off the back of Covid and all the adverse weather events. However, the feeling at conference week was that there are better times are ahead. Once again, your resilience as an industry is shining through and the HortNZ team looks forward to supporting you in this next chapter.

“We grafted our vines last year so are not expecting any fruit until around 2025,” Evan says. The orchard grafted 3.3 hectares in the fully commercialised red variety.

“We are expecting a high demand for the red variety, as new variet-

ies generally attract a premium price over the commodity varieties,” Evan says.

“It’s also good to have a range of varieties to spread risk.”

Reports of the mild winters affecting kiwifruit have mainly been isolated to the North Island and Fruition Horticulture’s Sandy Scarrow says the winter up North was one of the warmest she could remember, which meant the vines are not getting the required winter chilling.

Last year, Bay of Plenty kiwifruit had poor flowering because of the warm temperatures, and this year the lack of chilling had been even worse.

“Kiwifruit are like apples and grapes and need a certain amount of winter chilling. So far, we have had enough winter chilling to have not been affected. The region generally had a good season with good flowers, good numbers and good quality fruit,” Evan explains.

RubyRed Kiwifruit, now growing in Golden Bay, is expected to attract a premium price over the commodity varieties. Photo: File.

Nadine Tunley HortNZ CEO

Suzuki recently released a Hybrid version Vitara. Actually, a mild hybrid which uses waste energy from braking and slowing or descending a slope to recharge the battery. With a weight penalty of only 60kgs over the ICE-only powered version the Hybrid is at present cheaper than the petrol-only versions with the subsidy.

The turboed 1.4 litre motor, called Boosterjet Hybrid, the AWD has a Hill Descent Control and multiple

modes. The most noticeable feature of the turbo/hybrid is the surprising lack of lag. This demonstrates the electric motors influence when starting off and throughout the rev range. Hammer the throttle and all paws grip and launch you in a way a 2WD just can’t. It feels linear and, better still, is quiet. The cost difference is $3k at $45,790, well worth the extra dollars for the satisfying grip and extra control it gives.

On any formed road the Vitara seems glued with light, but direct, steering. It handles ruts and deep, loose metal

by holding the chosen line and, with the paddle shifters close to the wheel, changing up or down is easy. Left to its own devices without excessive performance demands, I managed 5.9 l/100km, in line with the claimed 6.0. However, if you’re careful the low 5’s will give you 750-850km range from the 47-litre tank, also interesting as it’s the same size as the petrol only model. The interior has unique red rings around any circular instruments which look good.

Built-in SatNav and reverse camera are shown from the central monitor, as are the cruise and entertainment functions. The seats are comfortable and very supportive, necessary when punting the Suzi around corners. The rear pews are equally comfortable for two, though three might be better if they are all kids. The 375-litre flat-floored boot expands to 710.l with the rear seats folded almost flat. As well

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as a tonneau blind to cover objects in the boot, it also has a two-position floor panel allowing for heavy items to be stored below. This also allows a full-sized spare wheel to be optioned, a rarity among aerosol spare equipped models being the norm. The Vitara comes though with a space saver spare.

Equipped with Bluetooth music and connectivity, heated mirrors, push button start with keyless entry, the turbo also has adaptive cruise control, weaving alert, lane departure warning, cross traffic alert, blind spot monitor as well as ESP, traction control ABS EBD ED and seven airbags the Vitara range are all 5 Star ANCAP. I used the Vitara to drive around the farm, mainly on formed tracks, though it did venture off them easily and across the streams. Utilising the traction control with lock mode the 185mm ground clearance with short front and

rear overhangs, showed the Suzi was very capable off-road too. It was especially so on steep tracks, where instant acceleration was the best option. The Vitara is not set up to tow heavy loads though will handle braked trailer ratings of 1500kg. That’s up from 1200kg for the petrol only. Every other hybrid I’ve driven reduces the tow capacity, often to half or less, they cope extremely well delivering great economy and mile eating ability. The turbo petrol versions put out 103kW 220Nm, while the Hybrid is detuned to 96kW and increased torque to 235Nm for the petrol 1.4, plus 13kW for the electric power plant. This makes the hybrid quite lively especially if you select the sport setting.

As a long-distance tourer, a medium tow vehicle, a daily driver or rural runabout the Vitara Hybrid AWD could just be the best available hybrid for the rural sector!

Mazda NZ has decided to drop the BT 50 Ute from its line-up to focus on its mainstream passenger product. Mazda join Mercedes and Holden in leaving the Ute market in recent years.

The 2023 Vitara Hybrid perfect for the rural sector.

Photo: Supplied.

KEN STRUGNELL

Rural Community Noticeboard

www.tasmanhonda .co.nz

West Coast NAIT Drop-in Tues 26th September

The Rural Noticeboard is for local not-for-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@topsouthmedia.co.nz

We are all in it together when it comes to farm biosecurity. Do your bit by being up to date with NAIT and reporting animal movements quickly.

Join Danielle from OSPRI for a one-on-one 45-minute support session.

This drop-in session will be based in the Grey, Lower Buller area - Location/ Venue to be confirmed

We can cover a variety of topics including your NAIT account and any questions you may have, TB testing and signing you up to MyOSPRI.

Contact: Danielle Holland Danielle.holland@ospri.co.nz or register online at www.ospri.co.nz under ‘upcoming events’

Tasman Valley Young Farmers Club is a place to meet new people, connect with the food and fibre sector and have some fun.

If you are aged between 16 – 31 years old, then get off the farm for the night, have a drink and chat with us. 7pm on the 13th of September at the Tapawera Hotel No RSVP needed Just turn up!

SATURDAY, 16 SEPTEMBER 2023 FROM 14:00-16:00

Location: Crossroads, Blenheim

Bring along: Fruit, vegetables, preserves, baking, recipes, relishes, pickles, jam, herbs, flowers, cuttings, potted plantsany items from your garden or made by you. $2 entry goes to Crossroads trust for venue use. Gathering at 2:00pm sharp - swapping at 2:30pm. Spread the word - bring along: Friends, neighbours to join us!

MORE POWER. MORE CONVENIENCE.

A BIKE FOR EVERY FARM

FORLife