Canterbury Farming, December 2016 by Integrity Community Media

December 2016 Edition

30,287 copies distributed monthly – to every rural mailbox in Canterbury and the West Coast

Savouring the organic difference

Facial eczema reminder

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Exploring livestock emotions AgResearch scientists are doing some groundbreaking work into the emotions of livestock and what this means for the way the animals are farmed. Rural & Urban Subdivisions Cross Lease/Unit Surveys Resource Consents Topo/Site Surveys

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With consumer expectations about the welfare of farmed animals increasing around the world, scientist Gosia Zobel and her colleagues conducted a trial into the positive emotional states of dairy calves — the first of its kind in which the anticipation of the animals around access to different environments and opportunities for play was monitored. “We want to understand from a scientific basis what the animals are feeling by their behaviour, as opposed to just saying for example ‘look, the dog is wagging its tail, so it must be happy’,” Dr Zobel says. The data collected is now being analysed, but the work has already thrown up some interesting early impressions. In the dairy calf trial — a project run between AgResearch and the University of British Columbia Animal Welfare Program — the animals spent periods of time in pens with different flooring and some featuring play items such as a rope. A small yellow light would flash prior to access being given to the different pens, and the level of anticipation in the calves was monitored. Dr Zobel says the level of anticipation at the sight of the flashing light, and the interaction with the play

Scientist Dr Gosia Zobel with a goat

items, was much greater than expected by the researchers. She has also recently led a trial involving adult goats to look at their behaviour in more natural environments than they were used to. “We are trying to figure out what would they do if left up to their own devices, and had no restrictions placed on

them from a human system, how would they behave. And then in the long run, how we could incorporate that into a human system,” says Dr Zobel. “For example, when given the opportunity, the goats chose to climb onto an elevated platform, play on it, and to sleep on and under the

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platform. “They also chose to eat from a high feeder, about 1.5 metres off the ground. Normally they would eat their daily ration at floor level in a feed alley, but it turned out they actually ate more when it was elevated off the ground.” Dr Zobel often speaks to farmers on the issues of animal welfare and behaviour, and has found it is something taken very seriously. “I’m usually pleasantly surprised with not only how receptive farmers are to new ideas, but how often farmers ask questions that drive new research.”

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CANTERBURY FARMING

December 2016

Potato industry strengthens Potatoes New Zealand Incorporated have signed an agreement with Government to better protect the potato industry it represents in managing biosecurity. The industr y group have become the 14th partner organisation to join the Government Industry Agreement for Biosecurity Readiness and Response. The Deed was signed on Friday, December 9 by representatives from PNZ at a ceremony held on a potato farm. Attendees included PNZ and government representatives, Nathan Guy — Minister for Primary Industries and the GIA Secretariat. Stuart Wright, PNZ chair, said they gained widespread support for joining GIA after extensive consultation with members of the potato and wider agricultural industries. “MPI have really lifted their game in the biosecurity space, implementing a number of key initiatives to help with the early detection of pests and diseases. PNZ considers it is important to play our part as potato farmers to help prepare for, and minimise the potential impact from biosecurity pests and disease,” says Mr Wright. The value of the New Zealand potato industry is $814 million per annum. There are 169 registered potato growers in New Zealand, producing 479,000 metric tonnes of potatoes in 2015, from 10,700

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“We need to protect potatoes from biosecurity pests and diseases to ensure future generations to come will continue to enjoy potatoes with their meals,” says Chris Claridge, chief executive, PNZ. GIA Secretariat Manager Steve Rich welcomed PNZ on behalf of the GIA partnership saying the new addition will fur ther strengthen efforts to deliver better biosecurity outcomes. “It’s great that PNZ have recognised the benefits of

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hectares planted. Like all other horticulture industries, the potato industry faces a number of biosecurity threats that could damage the industry. One at the forefront of people’s minds at the moment is Tomato Potato Psyllid. “Biosecurity prevention and planning are essential to ensure the commercial wellbeing of the potato and wider horticulture industries. Potatoes are a much loved part of every New Zealander’s meals.

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partnering with other industry groups and Government. PNZ represents one of the larger vegetable crops and is a significant addition to the partnership,” says Mr Rich. “The thir teen other par tners wholehear tedly welcome PNZ to the GIA partnership. “We look forward to working with them to jointly manage biosecurity readiness and response.”

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CANTERBURY FARMING

Savouring the organic difference by Andy Bryenton

When you select a pot of yoghurt from the chiller in your local supermarket, the product which you take home to enjoy is just the tip of the iceberg. That tasty treat represents a huge amount of time, effort and logistics, all the way back to the roots of acres of pasture.

he final judgement of course, is in the taste, and those who enjoy the best will tell you that the finest flavour comes from organic origins. Clearwater’s Cream Top Yoghurt delivers impeccable taste — it’s award winning, in fact. But the details of how it got there reveal a fresh way of thinking about agricultural ecology, and prove that organic

methods are no longer just a moral and ethical choice, but a savvy economic one as well. B r ya n and Jackie Clearwater’s farm has the dramatic Mount Peel as a backdrop, and at first glance it looks like any other wellmaintained dairy operation, except for the small factory which adjoins the milking sheds. This is a certified organic dairy farm, eschewing

chemical fertilisers and going back from raw chemistry to soil biology to grow better pasture. The Clearwaters made the change from conventional practices in 1999, and now, close to two decades later, the difference has really filtered through from the ground up, or to be accurate, from below the ground, where a thriving layer of good bacteria, worms and

other invertebrates create the perfect environment for pasture growth. Br yan first became interested in what were then very alternative farming ideas back in 1983. Travelling through Wales, he visited the still-extant Centre for Alternative Technology and was intrigued by the concept of organic gardening. He stayed for a week and then

went on to work for one of the pioneering British organic produce companies, supplying top-end restaurants in London. “As a farmer, I was initially quite challenged by these ideas,” he said, “maybe because they challenged conventional agriculture. But I realised this was a future market. I saw organic agriculture as a means of

leaving a lighter footprint.” Bryan grew up in a farming family. His ancestors settled in the South Island in the 1830s, and like all early European settlers, they broke in the land with zeal, but with little thought for the then-unknown science of ecology. Peelview farm — the Clearwater’’ home and business — now takes the opposite tack. Bryan

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CANTERBURY FARMING has restored the stream which runs through the farm, planted native vegetation, uses no industrial chemicals which could run off into the waterways, and strives to provide the most happy and humane environment for his herd. In an era of bigbox, high-density farming to produce the biggest quantity of milk solids possible, this seems like a quaint regression to naysayers — an unsustainable case of heart over financial head. Nothing could be further from the truth. Measurable gains have come up from the pasture level at the Clearwaters’ farm — gains substantiated as part of a five-year-long Ag Research trial. With no synthetic nitrogen or phosphates, the fields at Peelview are green and healthy, with increased water holding capacity in the soil. And the taste test mentioned earlier? Well, the cream top yoghurt coming out of this tiny Canterbury supplier has met with rave reviews and a coveted award from Cuisine magazine. There’s momentum gaining for organic dairying out there in the wider world. Demand for organic dairy products is high and growing, and at a time when many dairy farmers are concerned about the global price of conventional milk powder, its organic equivalent is selling for thousands of US dollars more per tonne. Farmers are doing the maths, and a public who are more educated about healthy living and what goes into their food are driving demand locally too. “There are a lot of farmers out there who are up for the challenge,” said Bryan. “I am involved with an organic dairy and pastoral group, for example, running field days to

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An environment like this is what people imagine when they envision organic farming — though the hard work goes on beneath the surface, starting with healthy soil and pasture

assist new entrants.” There’s also interest from dairy giant Fonterra, who continue to champion modern dairy practices while also fostering a growing number of organic producers. Organic is more than just a buzzword now — it’s become part of everyday people’s diet and lifestyle, and the dairy industry is waking up to the benefits, both in the satisfaction of producing an ethical product and in the bottom line. Bryan and Jackie continue to turn out batches of what they like to call New Zealand’s most natural yoghur t, delighting foodies the length and breadth of the country thanks to their inclusion

on New World supermarket shelves. Bryan is out there spreading the message that organic agriculture works and works well. In fact, such is the Clearwaters’ commitment to showing their fellow farmers what a difference it makes, that they invite those who are interested to visit them and see for themselves. Email info@clearwaters.co.nz to arrange a visit. For those who question the difference one farm can make and whether all the effort was worthwhile — grab a pot of Clearwater’s Cream top and rip into it. That’s a taste — and a success story — which will silence any naysayers and put a smile on their face.

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Money Talk

with Andrew Wyllie

Investment markets update (Covering the three months ended 30 November 2016) Global Environment — The end of austerity negative for bonds The changing global political backdrop is now ushering in greater fiscal stimulus. Monetary policy alone has failed to resolve financial, social and economic imbalances and this has led to political change. Brexit and the election of Trump as the next US president are perhaps the most visible signs of the changes, but Europe is about to enter its election cycle with more populist change expected. While the uncertainty of political change increases risks, growth may well benefit. Even the starting point is an improvement from the past few years, with the third quarter of 2016 US GDP growth a healthy +3.2%, unemployment dropping to 4.6% and wage inflation picking up. Trump’s fiscal policies are pro-growth, but with the economy already nearing full employment,

higher inflation should be anticipated. Looking to Europe, real growth there is also above trend. In the shorter-term we expect quantitative easing (QE) measures to be extended, to counter any threats posed by uncertainty impacting the current levels of economic growth. However, QE is expected to be tapered from the middle of 2017, adding to upward pressure on bond markets. Longer-term, European break-up risks need to be balanced against the potential benefits of fiscal stimulus. Political populism is set to bring back inflationary pressures and higher longerterm interest rates. Equity markets — more restrained in recent months Reviewing equity market returns over the three months to November 30 2016, returns were mixed, but the fear that accompanied the election of Trump as the next US president has subsided, as the markets have

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focussed on the positives that lower taxes and higher infrastructure spending should bring. Growth sectors have benefited at the expense of defensive yield, with higher interest rates reducing the attractiveness of defensive sectors. US equities delivered the strongest returns over the three months to November 30, as the market focussed on the Trump growth dividend. Australian equities benefited from higher commodity prices and the potential for stronger demand for iron ore, as infrastructure spending is brought forward. Oil companies also benefited as the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) announced upcoming cuts to production. New Zealand equities, the stand-out performing asset class for the last few years, have lost some of their lustre. Because the local market is dominated by defensive yielding sectors, New Zealand

equities have been one of the largest beneficiaries of the record low interest rates, with growth in these sectors stimulated by acquisitions. With the environment now set to change, some of this attraction should unwind as the market refocusses on underlying growth and rotates away from more interest rate sensitive sectors. Fixed interest markets — longer-term interest rates set to rise Tr u m p ’s economic policies of lower taxes and infrastructure spending are unquestionably inflationary. The increase in budget deficits will lead to increasing supply and therefore higher

costs of funding, while the already positive economic growth occurring in the US and low unemployment, also increases inflationary pressures. New Zealand longer-term bonds are highly correlated to US interest rates, so higher longer-term rates should be expected. Shorter-term rates are also expected to rise despite the outlook for no change in the Official Cash Rate. This is likely to be driven by higher bank deposit rates, as banks attempt to maintain core funding ratios. Deposit growth has been lagging lending growth and this has already led to tighter credit conditions. With more

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than $40 billion needed to maintain lending growth, we believe banks are likely to continue to increase mortgage rates and raise deposit rates to restore a better balance between offshore wholesale funding and domestic deposits. Investors have benefited from falling and low interest rates for many years. Fixed interest portfolios have been deemed low risk in this environment. Looking forward, pressure on governments to invest more in their economies, larger fiscal deficits and higher inflation in a still heavily indebted world mean investors will need to look for more than income from their investment portfolios. Fixed income assets will carry higher risk while growth assets will be back in fashion. If you’re new to investing, please see Forsyth Barr’s Introduction to Investing guide available at forsythbarr. co.nz/investing-with-us/newto-investing or to discuss your investment options please contact Andrew Wyllie, an Authorised Financial Adviser with Forsyth Barr in Christchurch. He can be contacted regarding portfolio management, fixed interest, or share investments on 0800 367 227 or andrew. wyllie@forsythbarr.co.nz. This column is general in nature and should not be regarded as personalised investment advice. Disclosure Statements are available on request and free of charge.

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Country Law with Ronald W. Angland & Son

December 2016

Ronald W. Angland & Son LAWYERS

A new year’s resolution As the year draws to a close, it is an appropriate time to reflect on the year which has almost gone, and look forward to new beginnings in 2017. Throughout the year there have been a number of political events both within New Zealand and internationally. There was the Brexit vote, the US presidential election, the flag referendum and local body elections to name a few. One thing which was common to all, and a matter of concern, was the abysmal turnout of voters in every one. It is not that long ago that even in western democracies there wasn’t universal franchise. Take time to ponder on the fight put up by women in NZ to get the vote. My grandmother was a teenager when women got the right to vote and she always insisted on casting a vote in the subsequent elections. Today in many countries, there is no right for many of the population to vote and I expect that if the chance arose, most of the people would grab it and hold onto it. The usual comment from the citizen who does not exercise the right to vote is that it is boring, they are not interested or they are of the view that what happens in parliament is childish bickering. Our elected members work very hard on select committees and in their constituencies, even those on the lists. Apathy is dangerous in that potential dictators and other objectionable people can get into power and change the course of history. I don’t need to remind you of many of these people, and the lives and countries they have destroyed in their time. It is happening today. Look at Cuba after 59 years with a dictator in charge who hid a fortune for himself while

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the general population lived in poor conditions. I would be the last person to encourage anyone to become a political activist. However, I believe that it is vital for everyone to be politically aware and able to think for

at Ronald W Angland & Son wish all readers a very merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year. This article was prepared by Bessie Paterson, a partner at Ronald W Angland & Son, 2 Chapman Street, Leeston.

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December 2016

CANTERBURY FARMING

by Ann Morgan Perry Allen was originally a butcher by trade and now lives on a lifestyle property with an array of animals including sheep, muscovy ducks, beef and his much loved and appreciated Kunekune pigs.

erry and his wife Karen have five acres of fruit and nut trees, which he says they constantly battled to keep up with and, as far as landcare goes, they believe Kunekune pigs are the best animal for this.

“Everyone should have these pigs to help maintain difficult land. They are foragers and clean around all the trees, fence lines and other areas. I don’t feed them anything other than the grass around the property and a few

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nuts,” said Perry. The animals are all aptly named, there is Taimana the farm dog, Roast the sheep and of course the heart breaker, baby George Kune along with Boris, Babe, Betty, Nudge and Screech. “They are the only true grazing pig and my guys just keep mowing my lawns, and they do a marvellous job keeping the area welltrimmed. They love interacting with people and are reasonably clean and tidy.” A butcher by trade, Perry says Kunekune meat is lovely to eat if they are fed this way. “I have made

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CANTERBURY FARMING beautiful maple bacon in the past. The mistake people make is feeding them food scraps. They don’t need that as it makes them fat, they just need to forage on the grasses. “The pigs are fun and very social. Their favourite pastime is to have their bellies scratched by anybody and everybody — ours even sit on command.” The idea was to raise the pigs for meat but Perry now says they are too cute to kill. “If you raise them like we do, without scraps of food they are beautiful. Kunekune means ‘fat bellied pig’. They get fat looking at kikuyu grass and they don’t dig up the ground like other pigs. If there are wet spots they do try and make a wallow, they are amazing.” Perry says unlike Saddleback and Wessex pigs, he finds the Kunekune not as destructive and they clean around the flax and other plants, and keep his five acres of land looking like a park. “I have had other pigs, mainly meat pigs, but these guys are something else. In 1978 there were just 50 left in the world, I think they weren’t popular because of their size, but then a few people got together and formed the Kunekune Association and now they have made a comeback,” said Perry. “The story that they came on Captain Cook’s ship is debatable. I think they came out with the early whalers as food and they traded with the

Maori. They fell in love with them and used them for the high fat content, because back then they preserved everything in fat.” He says the pigs are great for any property, including lifestyle blocks. “I got told not to have them but I have found them to be amazing. They are small but good.” Kunekunes take 116 days for gestation which is two days longer than other pigs. Like all pigs, the biggest problem is smothering by the mother, but Perry’s go into sow crates if the mother is inclined to lay on top of them. “It is for their safety they are separated. My little white sow Babe doesn’t like babies so I take them off her now and raise them on a bottle. “I have a blind one but no one told her she is blind and she’s running around chasing her brothers and sisters — they are so easy to look after and user friendly.” “I am a butcher and have done a lot of hunting and eating meat, but now with my Kunekunes, raising them on my property, seeing them every day and having conversations with them, it becomes very personal and I am thinking of becoming a vegan.” Perry says there is no such thing as a miniature pig and the Kunekune Association are trying to introduce a 50 centimetre at the shoulder standard. When this happens it will allow some people to call a adult pig under this height a ‘mini’ pig. “Someone started a rumour as to having

December 2016

Kunekunes are a very social animal and enjoy interacting with humans miniature pigs for sale but there’s no such thing. I believe the photos were a baby Kunekune in a teacup — a very large teacup at that. Kunekunes can grow up to 200 kilograms and can get much taller. “People buy what they think is a miniature pig and it doesn’t stay miniature, and then they dump them. “I can’t speak highly enough of Kunekune, for the lifestyle block and for people who want to care for their land.”

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December 2016

CANTERBURY FARMING

From the Minister Nathan Guy, Minister for Primary Industries

Year in review December 2016

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This is my last column for is over-reliant on dairy but better fisheries information, the year and what a dramatic the last couple of years and agile and responsive ending it’s been to 2016. After have shown how strong and decision-making. It also the devastating earthquake in diversified the primary sector proposes law changes to Kaikoura we had another big is. Sectors like horticulture, allow cameras and electronic shock with John Key resigning seafood and wine have grown monitoring on boats. as Prime Minister. It is a very strongly. New Zealand’s The Kaikoura earthquake rare and dignified way he has overall growth rate is forecast has had a major impact on chosen to go out, on top of to hit 3.6% next year and the primary sector at the his game and completely by unemployment to fall to 4.2% top of the North Island. his own will. by 2019. Our books are back As a government, we His job is one of the in surplus, making us the responded with a $5 million toughest imaginable and the envy of many other countries recovery package including sacrifices for him and his around the world. funding to help replace nonfamily have been substantial, One of the big pieces insurable farm assets, and so I want to acknowledge and of work for me this year $2 million towards scientific salute him for his incredible has been the Biosecurity research into the impact hard work and service. The 2025 Direction Statement of the earthquake on the good news is we have Bill which sets out a long-term local fisheries. English who will be great strategy for biosecurity. This I’m pleased to finish the as our new Prime Minister. follows widespread public year with some good news for He comes from a farming consultation and feedback the red meat sector. MPI has background and knows the this year. One of the key worked very hard to help a primary sector extremely well. themes is ‘A biosecurity number of new meat plants This year it’s been great team of 4.7 million’, which gain approval for export to see the recovery in dairy is important because we to China. This year we’ve prices after a tough couple need everyone involved in also had halal and organic of seasons. Many are protecting our borders. certification for exports to predicting the total payout Another big recent China, and I’m hopeful chilled for 2016–17 is likely to be programme for us is the meat access is not far away. around $6.40 per kgMS, well Future of Fisheries review, Next year is election above the breakeven point which is a major programme year of course and will be for most farmers. There will of work to improve the extremely busy. still be some volatility but sustainable benefits for Thanks for all your this is great news and a real everyone from this important feedback and support, have morale boost. resource. The key proposals a great Christmas and here’s Some critics have claimed are based around maximising hoping we get good rain in the ARABEL ADVERTeconomy OCT 2016,value 180MM 130MM 1/4 PAGE the New Zealand fromX our fisheries, right places over summer!

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CANTERBURY FARMING

Country Matters

with Rob Cope-Williams

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The media insists on focussing on waterways being polluted, muddy paddocks and green manure being spread over the clean green pastures. Then there’s the leaching stories with rivers being clogged with unspeakable problems that mean the city folk can no longer swim in the rivers their families have enjoyed for generations. The drop-in returns to dairy farmers is counted in

tens of millions, so those not involved assume dairy farmers are earning millions every year. Then there are the headlines that dair y farmers are not breakingeven because of the lower payments. Two things, do the city folk actually care because it isn’t them, and now the upturn is being quoted it must have all been fixed. I am sure you will agree that those issues will not be

fixed by pretty pictures, and Richie saying dairy farmers are a good bunch. Fonterra spends your marketing funds on marketing, and do some old-fashioned PR. The media responds to relationships built between themselves and other organisations. It takes time, effort and shoe leather to build such relationships but it’s a lot more effective than making your shareholders grumpy.

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Target your market Seriously, who is it aimed at and will it result in higher prices for the producers. If Fonterra has hundreds of thousands of dollars to spend on marketing, which I doubt as the producers need to be rewarded first, surely those funds should be used to sell the product to the overseas markets where the sales are needed. Can you imagine a New Zealand shopper checking the packaging to see if the cheese, butter or milk they are about to put into their trolley is a Fonterra product because of the pretty pictures on the TV. No, they buy by habit or by price. Ah but, the marketing folk will say, we need an advertising campaign to get New Zealanders behind us because all they have heard about is the down turn. We, being Fonterra, want the Kiwis to understand we are nice people. OK let’s take a look at the image of dairying in general, and Fonterra in particular.

December 2016

WATER & IRRIGATION

CANTERBURY FARMING

The ‘Know to make it Flow’ Andrew Curtis, Irrigation New Zealand CEO Spring has lived up to its expectations this year — being as unpredictable as ever! By now, we should be well into the swing of irrigating, but nature has reduced that need somewhat. The great thing about a cold, wet spring is that it saves you money — not irrigating until you need to reduces operational costs and therefore increases profitability. The other great thing about this spring has been the absence of those dry, damaging nor’westers. No doubt they’ll arrive soon enough, but before they do make their unwelcome appearance, it’s a good oppor tunity to ensure your gear can withstand their effects. Despite the slow start to the irrigation season,

forecast drought and predicted low groundwater levels, particularly in eastern parts of the country, mean irrigating farmers must ensure their equipment and irrigation schedules are up to scratch. Now is a good time to check the performance of your irrigation assets so they will perform to their maximum efficiency when summer finally hits. Check flows and pressure. Pump impellers wear over time. Replacing worn gear will help ensure your flow and pressures are within 10% of operating design — this is critical for application

efficiency. Check for leaks. It’s not rocket science — water not being applied in the right place is water wasted. Do a bucket test. Even better, download the ‘CheckIt Bucket Test’ app. Bucket tests let you know how much and how evenly your application is. The CheckIt Bucket Test app walks users through an annual performance assessment, provides the results instantly to their phone and emails a report to them. For farmers undertaking bucket tests as part of their Farm Environment Plans, this app will provide a consistent, proven method

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December 2016

Weather Watch by Tony Trewinnard For the second month in a row we have a confused picture looking ahead, due to conflict between some of the weather intelligence datasets. Following on from last month, we have most of the dynamical models saying one thing, and the analogs (matches to similar past seasons) saying another. The first point to make about this, is that when datasets conflict, this inevitably decreases forecast confidence. When every indicator points in the same direction the forecaster feels confident about what to predict. But when some indicators point to one set of ideas, and others point a different way, the forecaster has to weigh up which dataset to favour, or in fact to pursue a different idea altogether. We are in that situation at present. This is not a cop-out, it’s trying to be honest about what is in front of us at this moment in time. The next point, is that compared to last month the dynamical models have backed off a little, and the analogs are also less extreme, so they have come closer together, even if they

are still saying somewhat different things. This is good overall. I also need to point out that the La Nina event I have been suggesting will develop, seems to be stuck in a very weak, marginal state. One dataset is showing the next few months more like we would expect if the La Nina was a moderate event, while the others are showing more of what we would expect from a neutral ENSO pattern. So I think it’s fair to say that the currently ‘confused’ and confusing La Nina is having an impact on forecast uncertainty. What we do seem to be able to deduce with some confidence is that the next three months are unlikely to be colder than usual overall, and quite likely to be warmer. After January the Canterbury

Plains may not see many really hot north-westerly days, but inland areas and basins may get quite hot at times in February and March. Rainfall patterns are uncertain. January is showing as having a reasonable run of westerly airstreams, which should make Canterbury drier than usual. However, in February and March we have conflicting predictions with some indicators suggesting wetter than usual months, but some suggesting more anticyclones than usual over New Zealand, and therefore drier conditions for Canterbury. Sunshine patterns are also uncertain. Westerlies in January should make Canterbur y s u n n i e r. Sunshine is like rainfall — if anticyclones arrive frequently, then generally sunnier-than-

normal weather is likely in February and March. However, some indicators are showing a reasonable number of lowpressure systems mixed in between the anticyclones, which would probably bring sunshine hours back to nearnormal levels. Let’s hope we get some clearer indications by midJanuary when the next threemonth outlook is due. Till then, the weekly outlooks seem to be showing good consistency, so hopefully they provide a useful guide in the

shorter term. As for autumn and winter, well, at this stage, all bets are off. For more seasonal and long-range information, check out the Blue Skies Weather page at facebook.com/ BlueSkiesWeather. There you will find a four-week outlook posted every Friday, a three-month outlook posted around

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CANTERBURY FARMING

Irrigation Issues

TARPAULINS FOR THE FARM

with Dr Tony Davoren

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‘Tis the season’. Middle of December and these words from an old Welsh ballad hopefully have a double barrel — foremost in most minds is the 10 days to Christmas and with the weather we have had thus far this irrigation season. Here’s hoping the second barrel is a continuation of sunny weather. Back to ‘tis the season’ is a traditional Christmas yuletide of Welsh origin (Nos Galan) dating back to the sixteenth century although the English lyrics we are familiar with date to 1862. Just for confusion, the English lyrics were written by a Scottish musician, Thomas Oliphant (hardly seems Scottish to me). No matter, the mixture of Welsh and English words goes back to the earlier Welsh and originate from medieval ballads. ‘Tis the season’ is one of wishes and I have a few (and I am sure you might agree): A continuation of the sunny weather (like the photo below) we have had 10 days out from Christmas — so needed for flowering crops like clover, radish, carrots and the like, pastures to improve quality, and other crops to ripen seed. I really would like not to see the roads, and in the case of the photo the neighbour’s paddock, being

December 2016

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irrigated — it is dumb, bad practice and dangerous if it hits a motor cyclist. In three days this week (11–16th) I have seen four instances, one of which was in the North Island. The only beneficial use of this water is it does

get rid of the bugs on the windscreen. Thirdly and not least I, you and pretty much all of Canterbury needs a WET autumn and winter — well late autumn and winter since I suspect there could be a latish harvest for some crops. To be a little more

precise, somewhere upwards of 350mm between midApril and mid-August would be perfect. It leaves me with a wish for you all to have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and we will see you back in January.

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December 2016

LAND CLEARING

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LOGGING CONTRACTORS

Allan Laurie MNZIF, Laurie Forestry Ltd

It is more than pleasing to consider that 2016 ends on a note of continuing stability and excellent log prices, pretty much the same way it started.

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This is pleasing in the context of many of the human factor issues that arise in a non-stable market. Stability also ensures continuing predictable margins and certainty in the profit and financing stakes. All in all the NZ Forest Industry continues on a very strong front. Judging by the phone and business traffic through my office, it is extremely pleasing to note more investment overall and new entrants looking for forest ownership as part of their portfolio. Across our domestic segment, prices have remained unchanged since November and sawmills appear to be getting all the logs they required, in some cases just enough. Pruned log demand has ebbed and flowed a little as sawmills search out markets and best price destinations. Consumption across the China eastern seaboard is running at an appreciably good 71,000 cubic metres per day. This reflects a 2,000-cubicmetre per day increase on last month and compares very similarly with the same

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time last year. Indeed current consumption levels are well ahead of earlier forecasts. This is adding a note of positivity to trade with domestic prices in China increasing very slightly over the last two weeks. China’s inventor y is running at 3.3 million cubic metres, up 100,000 on last month. Again this is much lower than forecasts and reflects a steady market. Meanwhile in NZ, weekly export log production is running at about 20,000 cubic metres per week less than at the same time last year. It has been that way for the last 6 weeks reflecting a combination of labour resources and forest age class profile. A clear example of how important NZ log supply is in China is reflected in the market behaviour following the Kaikoura earthquake. In the two weeks following, China sawmills went into panic buy mode fearing NZ supply would slow down dramatically. This did not impact log prices because it was a short-term kneejerk reaction, thus things levelled out very quickly.

However it did reflect a small blip in inventory data as the inventory effectively moved from port log yards to sawmills. To those in the export log trade sector, this example should emphasise the need for high-level responsibility around ensuring prices remain competitive and stable. Thus also ensuring all stakeholders both in NZ and China can operate in an environment of certainty. In India things have been more shaky for different reasons. Early December, the Government of India forced the 1,000 and 500 Rupee notes out of circulation basically overnight in what has been described as an attempt to ‘push transactions into a more formal economy’. Interestingly, phone-based transactions have also been mentioned as part of the opportunity to increase transaction capture rates. The immediate loss of these denominations, which predominate in ‘No 2’ money transactions, has led to a rush on banks as queues of people attempt to exchange their old currency.

This has impacted the sawmill trade severely as it is predominated by small businesses who trade a great deal in bag full’s of ‘No 2’ money. Reports this week suggest the initial panic has ebbed and some semblance of order is returning. However we would expect this market to be negatively impacted for a few more weeks with some uncertainty as to how it will all play out. Other commentary is suggesting the longer term should be better as a consequence of this recent shift in ensuring the tax take moves somewhat closer to compliance. So it is we can close off another year of solid trade and excellent log prices. I extend to all readers seasons greeting and salutations and the wish you can take time out to relax with family and friends. A very merry Christmas and happy new year to all and please remember, as always, it has never been more timely to note the only way forward for climate, country and the planet is to get out there and plant more trees!

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Need help? Use kelp! Being very rich in iodine, only small amounts are required compared with other kelp/seaweed varieties. NZ giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera) as an animal supplement, is very high in a variety of micronutrients, making it an excellent source of many minerals. Giant kelp supports the thyroid gland. A normal functioning thyroid gland is required for all other organs to work properly. Iodine deficiency is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies in the world. We are particularly prone to iodine deficiency in New Zealand for two reasons. First, our soils are naturally low in iodine, which leads to low iodine in pastures and crops. Second, we feed a lot of brassicas as fodder crops, inhibiting iodine uptake (goitrogenic). Iodine deficiency leads to poor growth rates, poor milk production and reproductive problems. Injections are one way of supplementing iodine but they are not natural. NZ Kelp has developed the agricultural brand ‘Zelp’, which offers another iodine

December 2016

(03) 322 6115

• Emission Trading Scheme advice and management • Trainer/Assessor in NZQA forestry related units Our highly experienced teams aim to ensure value optimisation in all aspects of forest management.

To find out more call us on 03 343 4101 or visit www.forestmanagement.co.nz info@nzkelp.co.nz

December 2016

CANTERBURY FARMING

FARM EQUIPMENT & MACHINERY More than an extra pair of hands by Andy Bryenton

When there’s plenty to move around the farm — from sacks of fert to bales of feed and more — it’s easy to wish for another pair of hands. Or, in the case of Merlo’s Turbofarmer telehandler, one extremely large, hydraulic powered hand that can do it all. Merlo has been in the business of shifting heavy agricultural loads since the early 1980s — when the rest of us were still listening to new wave — the engineers from Piedmont, Italy were designing a whole new way to transport pallets, scoops and bales of just about anything. Having already designed go-

To advertise in the Canterbury Farming Please call

03 347 2314 or email sales@canfarm.co.nz

anywhere concrete mixers and tracked vehicles, Merlo SpA bosses conceived of a combination tractor, forklift and telescopic-boom crane. Calling it the SM30, Merlo debuted their new machine to huge enthusiasm. Today, with the benefit of three more decades of tuning and improvements, the top agricultural telehandler in the business just might be the big, capable Merlo TF42.7CS-156. Call it the toptier Turbofarmer for short, but don’t call it underpowered — under the hood the Italians have teamed up with ag engineering giant Deutz-Fahr to pack in a 156-horsepower four-litre diesel. This German-made mill complies

RADIATORS

with rigorous emissions standards, but still churns out a phenomenal amount of torque to get all those jobs done — 609 Newton-metres at a mere 1,600rpm. With a traditional sidecab design offering extreme visibility, and intuitive controls to manage the varied optional boom-end tools available, this telehandler makes short work of major lifting and carrying. Its small turning radius enables ease of access to sheds and barns, and that extending boom gives it a long reach beyond that of tractormounted handling systems. For the big farm, where there’s always plenty to stow, transport and deploy, this extra pair of hands actually

does the job of several other men and machines. If you need to transport up to 4,200 kilos at a time, or reach above

SINCE 1989

MULTIPLE USES

Water Ballast Rollers Spiral Welded Pipe Grain Augers Range of standard sizes available or made to your required size.

1836662

www.industrialradiators.co.nz jimmy@industrialradiators.co.nz 40 Hands Road | Middleton | Christchurch 8024 Ph: 03 338 8016 | Fax: 03 338 8017

a close look at the latest offering from the company who started the revolution in the first place.

POLYNON RUSTING POLYSILOS

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• Industrial Radiators • Oil Coolers • Intercoolers • Clean/Test/Repair/New • Marine Coolers/Condensers

seven metres and out three, then there’s no substitute for a heavy duty telehandler, and it makes sense to take

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FINANCE DEALS ON FERTILISER

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0800 668 534 advantageplastics.co.nz

FARM EQUIPMENT & MACHINERY

CANTERBURY FARMING

December 2016

Master of mulching by Andy Bryenton

Lifestyle blocks can be rewarding and picturesque — after all the hard work of clearing scrub and taming invasive undergrowth is done, of course. Breaking in new ground on this kind of scale may be too small a task to warrant a massive tractor slasher or bobcat, but it’s too much for the average mower. That’s where Kiwi company Masport have found a brand new niche for a new breed of ride-on machine — a beefedup, hard-core cousin to the average lawn tractor which they call the Crossjet. A cross breed of conventional mower and the kind of big slasher deployed by farmers to make new pasture from rugged regrowth, the Crossjet chews through its meal of blackberry, kikuyu and reeds with an insatiable appetite, shredding it all down with a pair of flail blades driven by a high-capacity V-twin engine. In a practical test, clearing half an acre neglected for over three years, the Crossjet was undaunted by growth up to waist height. The two-wheel-drive version — perfect for level ground — uses its weight and a set of tube steel nudge bars to crush even the gnarliest growth under, where a seriously heavy-duty cutting deck takes matters in hand. Even small wattle saplings, immature gorse and other pithy fare came out the other side as finger-length mulch, without the engine missing a beat. Lining up on some serious overgrowth — head high in some places and laced with blackberry canes — the Crossjet plowed right in, and with some artful use of the machine’s small turning circle and hand-operated forward

1.5M please HEADER

Repairs & Spares • Concaves Manufactured new for all makes and models. Built specially for NZ conditions. Also repairs and alterations. From the initial heavy cut to precision lawn care, the Crossjet handles it all

and reverse throttle, the lot was soon razed flat. In fact, it was never necessary to engage the optional diff lock to get out of tight spots — an option that’s there if the green stuff really gets stroppy. About the only criticism one could

level at this machine is that the throttle control — which must be constantly operated by your right hand — needs a firm grip, and perhaps a glove if you’re in the saddle for extended periods of time. Even after a solid hour of

chopping, it had only depleted half a tank of gas, too. For just a little more than the average ride-on — and less than a commercial zero-turn — it’s the perfect companion for lifestyle block owners with big ground to cover.

• Drums & Bars Manufactured and repaired. All makes and models. Preseason checks done on farm.

• Sieves & Riddles Repairs, rebuilds and specially designed stepped sieves for small seed applications. Cleaner Sample - Less Loss

• General Engineering Fabrication, steelwork, repairs, sheet metal.

ELLESMERE ENGINEERING LTD

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Ph: 03 324 2145 • Mobile: 027 331 9821 www.ellesmereengineering.co.nz 185 Jollies Road Southbridge

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www.palmeragriparts.co.nz Kverneland • Overum • Kuhn Lemken • Dowdeswell • Vogel & Noot • Gregoire Besson • Clough • Duncan • Terradisc • Maxitill • Yeoman • Vibroflex • Connershea • Goliath • IHC • Sunflower • Topdown • Salford • Kongskilde • Napier • Vaderstad We can also manufacture any point you need! Spaldings Flatlift SubSoilers • Dale Plough Shares • Plough Conversion Kits • European Plough Parts • Cultivation Points & Tines • Tractor Parts & Equipment • Combine Harvester Croplifters

palmeragriparts@xtra.co.nz | 34 Robinson Street, Riverside Industrial Park, Ashburton Palmer Agri Parts Direct imports and manufactures quality parts that fit machines indicated. These parts are not sold as genuine parts.

Get your seed in on time, with Great results for less money.

Call 0800 dry hire today

December 2016

FARM EQUIPMENT & MACHINERY

CANTERBURY FARMING

Sitrex TR9 Side Rake

Designed to rake hay, straw and pea vine cleanly and carefully. The Sitrex TR9 Rake is technically designed to provide a fast and careful raking, while it handles hay gentler than any other ordinary parallel bar rake. Large diameter reels and optimum reel angle result in a raking width equivalent to two 7 reel Bamfords Rakes, the full machine weight being carried in front of the land wheels makes them very stable when raking the heaviest of crops.

Strong, stable and simple to operate.

For ease of use, the reels are raised and lowered hydraulically by a tractor or an optional handpump, working width can easily be adjusted anywhere from 3m to 5.5m.

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• 27HP • 38HP • 1 rear remote • 1 rear remote (2nd optional) LIMITED TIME ONLY • Independent mid & rear PTO • Rear PTO (mid optional) ® T4.95/T4.105 ROPS DUAL COMMAND PLUS LOADER • Push button cruise control • Push button cruise control • Common rail FPT industrial 4 cylinder engine FROM $16,995

FROM $20,995

•

Max horsepower: 99 hp/107 hp

•

Dual Command transmission 24x24 transmission

BOOMER 50

Workmaster 40

• 46HP • 38HP ELECTRO COMMAND•® Rear PLUSPTO LOADER • 1 rear T5.105/T5.115 remote (2nd optional) • Rear PTO (mid optional) • Cruise control • Common rail FPT industrial 4 cylinder engine • Push button cruise control • Max horsepower: 107 hp/114 hp

• $27,995 Electro Command 16x16 semi-powershift transmission FROM FROM $19,995

T6020/T6050/T6070 PLUS SR PLUS LOADER

MOWERS/BACK HOES/LOADERS AVAILABLE from

•

New Holland NEF 4 cylinder engine T6020/6 cylinder engine T6050/T6070

•

Max horsepower: 112 hp/127 hp/142 hp

•

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•

Low emissions and superior fuel economy

•

Indent deals still available for units on order

•

FINANCE OPTIONS AVAILABLE

Available with mechanical and hydrostatic transmissions. Speak NEW about MODELS to T7 us –today finance options. While stocks last. Attachments additional to advertised prices. All prices exclude GST. • are 118 hp to 313 hp

SHOW SPECIALS ON ALL Z SERIES ZERO TURN KUBOTA BOTH PETROL AND DIESEL OPTIONS AVAILABLE

d r vali *Offe CHC ow to Sh how A&P S nly o stock

Z122R 42” Deck $7690inc GST* Z125E 54” Deck $9150inc GST* Z125S Deck $9650inc GST* Subject to normal54” lending terms and conditions. Offer available on current stock only. Please see your local New Holland dealer for full terms and conditions.

Farm Machinery Centre

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4 year warran ty

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James Blackler 0274 794 374 | Rennie Barnes 027 433 7714 | Stephanie Radley 027 432 5640 726 MAIN SOUTH ROAD, CHRISTCHURCH • Phone: 03 349 5089 • salesch@norwood.co.nz www.norwood.co.nz/christchurch

kubota.co.nz

FARM EQUIPMENT & MACHINERY

CANTERBURY FARMING

A fruitful crop of awards

EMERGENCY

DIAL 111

by Andy Bryenton

Ancient genius, artist and engineer Leonardo Da Vinci thought up the concept of the tractor long before there was an engine powerful enough to operate it. His selfpropelled cart was powered by springs, but the museum built in his name — the Museo nazionale della scienza e della tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci of Milan, has one modern tractor on display. It’s a SAME, from 1927. Now there’s another tractor by the same firm worthy of Da Vinci’s company. At this year’s Tractor of the Year Awards in Europe, the SAME Frutteto S Active Drive scooped first place for specialised tractors. A packed sector which caters to orchards, vineyards and specialist row crops, this is a growing segment of the agricultural industry demanding a high level of precision and versatility. SAME delivered with a new approach to ensuring a smooth ride over all kinds of terrain — setting up the chassis of the Frutteto with electronic sensors, nitrogen accumulators and advanced hydraulics to ensure silky handling. Independent front suspension — something usually only seen in roadgoing cars — completes the picture. After all, nimble handling and a smooth ride are nonnegotiables when operating in the confines of an orchard. Overhanging branches, delicate fruit and narrow rows are too much to handle for the kind of big tractors seen plying the open fields. However, the SAME Frutteto doesn’t

December 2016

DONATE ONLINE

Italian orange — the SAME Frutteto S is European Tractor of the Year in the competitive specialist class

compromise on power. With 3-cylinder 80-horsepower and 4-cylinder 110-horsepower options to choose from, this orange powerhouse has plenty of juice on demand for the sometimes complex harvesting implements used in specialist agriculture.

With a big thumbs up from 23 of the top agricultural publications of Europe, and a strong following among the usually very traditionalist vintners and orchardists of the old world, SAME are confident that there are plenty of applications here in New

Zealand which would benefit from the versatile stability of the Frutteto S. It may not be an original masterpiece by Leonardo, but it’s certain to be a good investment nonetheless, for those involved in the burgeoning specialist sector.

We need your help as much as you need ours Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust. PO Box 20262, Christchurch 8543

4m+

December 2016

CANTERBURY FARMING

FARM EQUIPMENT & MACHINERY

y T I L a u Q e r e de Legendary VaLue 6140M + Loader

Legendary John Deere 6140M & 643R Self Levelling Loader

Factory forward orders only. Offer ends 31.01.2017. Includes 600/65R38 rear tyres, 114litre pump, 6.8 litre engine, 24 speed power quad transmission

CHRISTCHURCH 799 Jones Rd - 03 349 4883 Murray Chesterman 027 266 4222 Quintin Boyd 027 486 7792 John Murgatroyd 027 435 5900

ASHBURTON 832 East St - 03 307 9911 Reece Trotter 027 486 7733 Baden McDowell 027 438 7555 Mark Symes 027 444 1706

www.dne.co.nz 0800 432 633

CANTERBURY FARMING

December 2016

We’re here for you. If your house or contents were damaged in the recent earthquakes then we’ll lodge, manage and settle your claim, regardless of whether it is under or over the EQC cap. So if you’re insured with one of our brands, you only need to deal directly with us. If you’ve already lodged a claim with EQC or with us, you don’t need to contact us again. We’ll have your claims information and will be in contact with you. Helping our customers and their communities through this difficult time is our highest priority.

Contact details for the brand you’re insured with:

0800 100 200 ami.co.nz or visit your local AMI store

0800 248 888 bnz.co.nz

0800 80 24 24 state.co.nz

0800 425 025 co-operativebank.co.nz

Call your broker or visit nzi.co.nz

0800 309 378 westpac.co.nz

Call your broker or visit lumley.co.nz

0800 200 242 asb.co.nz

0800 800 800 lanterninsurance.co.nz

0800 807 926 swanninsurance.co.nz IAGDec16 CF

Look After Your Soil! Unlock the value in your land, with improved yields and repeat growing conditions year on year, by preventing your soil quality erosion with Gypsum.

Good farming is about sustainability, in keeping critical nutrients in your soil and out of New Zealand waterways. “Water and land management remains one of New Zealand’s greatest environmental challenges. In particular, there is potential to look more closely at the relationship between sedimentation of waterways and soil losses from land use. The loss of elite soils is also of particular interest.” - Ex-parliamentary report Gypsum aerates, conditions and improves soil structure promoting an optimum environment for pasture growth, reduced pugging, enhanced flocculation and helps mitigate the flow of nitrates and phosphorus to rivers and lakes while providing calcium and sulphur nutrients.

for more about Natural Gypsum and soil stabilisation visit www.gypsum.co.nz

December 2016

LIFESTYLE BLOCKS

CANTERBURY FARMING

The taste of Napoli in New Zealand by Andy Bryenton

It’s an often recounted fact that pizza may not be Italian at all — though that doesn’t stop us from enjoying it here in New Zealand. In fact, the flat, cheesy delight may have been invented by Roman soldiers in Jerusalem, who added cheese, onions and olives to the local matzah bread. What we do know for sure is that preparing pizza outdoors in a wood fired oven has become the big trend for summer entertaining. Smoky, hot, fresh and delicious, wood fired pizza trumps the traditional bangers on the barbie in the cuisine stakes, and is ultimately versatile. Recipes abound for exotic delights like seared manuka

Irrigation • Drainage • Driveways • Auger Hole Drilling Land Clearing & Development • Culvert Installation • Lawns Construction Site Works •Tree & Hedge Removal • Concrete Breaker

Phone Mike: 027 272 8058 or 03 324 4323 A/H g.m.contracting@xtra.co.nz www.gmcontracting.co.nz

smoked salmon, caper and red onion pizza, angus beef and capsicum, or even dessert varieties. If that’s got your mouth watering, the next stage is to source a good quality means of preparing outdoor pizza. The secret is in using clay or bricks to create a surface which absorbs and then evenly radiates heat, ensuring a crispy base and strings of dripping mozzarella. Many companies will happily install one of their own proprietary designs in your backyard — just make sure

the rest of your entertainment area is up to the standard, as you can expect plenty of guests ready to taste test the results. However, if the cost of a professional install seems prohibitive, there are two popular options to choose from which still guarantee plenty of pizza for all. The first is to look into the capabilities of your existing BBQ — with some additions. Many homeowners already won amazing and complex grills, with wok burners, rotisseries and hoods. Rather than hide away what used to

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1/3

CONTACT ANDREW HATTRILL AND THE LIFESTYLE IRRIGATION TEAM P: 03 3133 155 or 022 382 0415 | E: andrew@lifestyleirrigation.nz W: www.lifestyleirrigation.nz Mon - Fri 8:00am to 5:00pm | Sat 9:00am to 1:00pm | or by appointment 341B Flaxton Rd, Rangiora (behind Redpaths)

DEPOSIT IN 1 YEAR IN 2 YEARS

Call for full terms & conditions.

zeroturnmowers.co.nz

John Pilbrow 03 318 1112 2082 Old West Coast Rd, Kirwee, Christchurch.

CANTERBURY CONTINUOUS SPOUTING LTD

be the patio centrepiece, equip it with a stone-lined pizza cooker from your local BBQ or hardware supplier. These do all the work of a full-sized wood fired oven, though they lack the rustic look. The final alternative is to roll up your sleeves and simply build a pizza oven. After all, the peasants of Napoli managed it back in the 1700s. With a bit of skill and a lot of bricks you could have an entertaining masterpiece the envy of the whole neighbourhood.

0800 743366

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BARN K I T

Another quality product from McAlpines

www.barnkit.nz

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LIFESTYLE BLOCKS

Facial eczema reminder Dairy farmers are being urged to plan ahead and breed facial eczema-tolerant cows after New Zealand endured one of the worst FE seasons in years in 2016. Spore counts ballooned in the North Island and parts of the South Island to the highest in a decade, and many herds had a large number of cows with clinical facial eczema. CRV Ambreed says orders for straws of semen from bulls with genetics for a tolerance to facial eczema tripled in response in 2016. Tens of thousands of straws were sold and the firm’s global product manager for grazing, Peter van Elzakker, says CRV Ambreed is expecting demand to increase again. “Bulls from FE teams are 25–30 per cent less reactive to a facial eczema challenge than the average bull and the latest CRV Ambreed FE bull team, due to be announced in early 2017, is expected to be the best yet,” he says. Research and development completed by CRV Ambreed and its research partners resulted in the ability to identify bulls with improved FE-tolerance. These were first marketed in 2011. Now, about 10 per cent of CRV Ambreed’s 150-strong bull catalogue have increased tolerance

to facial eczema across the Crossbred, Friesian and Jersey categories. Glowing, a Friesian bull who is CRV’s second biggest selling bull, is part of the FE team. Facial eczema is caused by a toxin (sporidesmin) produced by the spores of the fungus Pithomyces chartarum growing on pasture. The fungus grows in the dead litter at the base of pasture in warm moist conditions and when ingested by cattle or sheep, damages the liver and bile ducts. It can cause liver failure and death. NIWA’s forecast for December to February shows most of the country can expect to have average or above average temperatures in this time, and that most of the North Island, plus the west of the South Island, will have normal or above normal rainfall. CRV Ambreed’s Research and Development manager Phil Beatson says the genetics approach provides another tool in the toolbox for farmers working in ever-changing environments, particularly in relation to global warming.

BUILD

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email: dalywaterwells@hotmail.com

Peter van Elzakker — CRV Ambreed’s global product manager for grazing

“Genetic improvement offers a safe, environmentally sound and economical solution. It means less zinc can be used, and farmers can be confident they are breeding long-term solutions for their farms.” Mr Beatson says global warming will exacerbate the FE problem in New Zealand

in years to come. The sheep industry has been breeding for FE-tolerance for years and today’s sheep are now seven times as tolerant to a FE challenge than their 1980s ancestors, but the dairy industry has been slower on the uptake of a genetic solution.

SCORCH

Wright Enterprises Build Limited W.E. Build New Homes Renovations Alterations Trade Certified Builders Family owned & operated

LTD

December 2016

Ph GLEN DALY (Owner Operator)

BUILDER

E info@webuildltd.co.nz Antony Wright 021 111 1703 John Wright 0274 343 323 AH 03 347 4347

CANTERBURY FARMING

COMMUNICATIONS

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Scorch Broadband

Be water wise this summer DON’T WASTE IT

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SEPTIC SYSTEM SERVICING

At Oasis we have a strong servicing team with over 40 years Experience. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For all your servicing requirements

DRIVEWAYS: • Chip seal • Loose chip, Limestone chip • Hot mix (asphalt) • Farm tracks and repairs

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PHONE 0800 48 48 49 www.oasisclearwater.co.nz

FOR A NO OBLIGATION, FREE QUOTE CALL CAMPBELL STEVENSON

027 220 3759 | A/H 03 313 3759

December 2016

CANTERBURY FARMING

TRIMMING PRICES, NOT QUALITY.

RED HOT PRICE

122C

$194

21.7cc - 0.76kW - 4.4kg Smart Start®, Auto-return stop switch, Low noise engine, Adjustable handle, Tap ‘N Go™ trimmer head.

WAS $279

*Save up to $100 on selected models. $189 refers to model 122C. Offers valid 1/9/16 – 28/02/2017 at participating dealers only.

was $399

122LK 21.7cc 0.6kW - 4.7kg

NOW $349

322L 22.5cc 0.75kW - 4.2kg

was $499

525LST 25.4cc 0.95kW - 4.7kg

NOW $449

was $849

was $899

was $729

NOW $629

135R 34.6cc 1.4kW - 6.8kg

NOW $799

525RS 25.4cc 0.95kW - 5.0kg

NOW $749

HEDGE YOUR BETS was $549

499

$ 122HD45

Bar length 45cm - Teeth opening 28mm, Low Vib®, Smart Start®, Auto-return stop switch, Low noise engine.

HOT OFFER

1049

save $50

21.7cc - 0.6kW - 4.7kg

226HD60s

319

125B

21.7cc - 0.6kW - 4.9kg Bar length 60cm - Teeth opening 28mm, Low Vib®, Smart Start®, Autoreturn stop switch, Low noise engine, 5-way adjustable rear handle.

28.0cc - 0.8kW - 4.2kg Air Speed 209kph, E-Tech® engine, Auto-return stop switch, Cruise control, In-line air outlet, Adjustable tube length.

YOU COULD TAKE IT HOME TODAY

30 3

MONTHS INTEREST FREE^

3,999

TS138 $ Husqvarna Series™ Intek engine 17.5hp* - 38” Cutting Deck. Automatic transmission.

5,799

$ TS246 Husqvarna Endurance Series™ V-Twin engine 22.0hp* - 46” Reinforced Cutting Deck

Z242E TM Husqvarna Endurance Series * V-Twin engine 20.0hp 42” TM ClearCut Fabricated Cutting Deck.

5,999

R216 Briggs & Stratton Intek engine 9.6kW@2900rpm 94cm Cutting Deck,

Don’t wait any longer, buy it now!

30 3

Don’t wait any longer, you could take your new Husqvarna Garden Tractor home today with 30 months interest free on purchases $2,599 and over. Offer ends 28th February 2017 ^Available at participating Husqvarna Dealers only. Conditions apply, visit www.husqvarna.com or see instore for details.

MONTHS INTEREST FREE^

7,499

Ask us about our 5 year warranty*

30 Months, NO DEPOSIT, INTEREST FREE^

*Conditions apply, see instore for details or visit husqvarna.com.au

TAKE THE HUSQVARNA AUTOMOWER CHALLENGE! 320

FA C T I S I T A

305

O N

45 DAY

RAN

Working area up to 500m2 Cutting width 17cm Cutting height 20-50mm - Li-ion battery 3 Cutting blades

30 3

MONTHS INTEREST FREE^

was $2,599

Working area up to 2200m2 Cutting width 22cm Cutting height 20-50mm - Li-ion battery 3 Cutting blades

3,999

265ACX

Working area up to 6000m2 Cutting width 32cm - GPS remote module. PIN/ Alarm, Timer

2,299

E E T

was $5,999

5,499

www.husqvarna.co.nz

Call your local authorised Husqvarna Servicing Dealer, Ashburton Ashburton Christchurch Christchurch Darfield

Claas Harvest Centre Tinwald Hoopers Outdoor Power Centre Shands Outdoor Power Centre Martyns Outdoor Power & Equipment Centre Ltd Challenge Darfield

03 03 03 03

307 9400 307 7055 349 8955 355 9323

03 318 8976

Methven Oamaru Rangiora Timaru Waimate Waipara

Dixon Farm Machinery Ltd Pivotal Irrigation Ltd Mead Mowers & Chanisaws Ltd Class Harvest Centre Washdyke Stowell Motor Repairs 2012 Ltd Claas Harvest Centre Waipara

03 03 03 03 03 03

302 8946 433 1039 313 6640 688 2111 689 8018 314 6899

CANTERBURY FARMING

A Green Perspective with Eugenie Sage, Green Party Primary Industries spokesperson

The potential of forestry The latest MPI Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries (December 2016) predicts that forest product exports are expected to continue to rise to $6.4 billion by 2021. This is driven in part by an increasing supply in harvestable wood. The report does not outline what the replanting rates are. It is expected that the current net national deforestation will continue, because of low carbon prices and the attraction of other landuses. Forest owners should have a financial incentive to replant on harvest as they are managing a cyclical operation where growing carbon credits counterbalance carbon costs on harvest. Forestry could have a larger share of the export market and make a greater contribution to New Zealand’s climate change mitigation, if it stood on equal footing to other land uses. Recent decades of forestry to dairy conversion, helped drive the country further into the red in its carbon accounting balance. To meet our international obligations, this will cost all taxpayers in the future. The agricultural sector needs to transition to meeting its carbon costs. Only when this occurs will forestry as a land use be on an equal footing. In recent years, farmers have come to understand that the costs of their environmental externalities (sediment and nutrient pollution in waterways), need to be factored into their farm accounts. An ethic of improved stewardship has come together with an acceptance of a ‘social licence to operate’. Industr y and government regulation have both underpinned these changes. Greenhouse gas

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QUAD BIKE SAFETY Concentrate on the riding. emissions are another externality which inevitably farmers must pay for. Current Government policy is to postpone that time forever and instead require the general taxpayer to foot the bill when our international carbon accounts must be paid. The Green Party supports a managed transition to agriculture paying its fair share towards accounting for its climate pollution costs. As well as diversifying our timber exports by increasing the ratio of manufactured product to raw logs, a strong and resilient forestry sector should diversify the range of timbers being produced. Internationally, areas of old growth forest have been logged beyond sustainable limits. Totara, rimu, kauri and beech plantations and treatment have all been trialled in the past and would benefit from further research.

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CANTERBURY FARMING

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Positive progress with Cervena in Europe The five major venison marketers, that have been collaborating in the trial-marketing of Cervena venison in the Netherlands and Belgium during the northern summer, have agreed to continue the trial for a third year. The trial is a key part of the Passion2Profit strategy — a Primary Growth Partnership (P2P) joint venture between DINZ and the Ministry for Primary Industries. DINZ venison market manager Marianne Wilson says that in the second year of the trial, 50 tonnes of venison were sold chilled during the northern summer instead of being frozen for consumption in the winter

game season. It will have sold at a €2.50/kg premium compared to frozen cuts. “Importers and distributors in the market have expressed enthusiasm for the results and are keen to progress to year three of the trial. In addition, all the chefs we surveyed after the second year commented on the quality of the venison and its suitability for summer eating,” she said.

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“It was fantastic to see the chefs consistently mentioning that Cervena suits summer cuisine and works perfectly as a summer dining option — they really identified with our approach. This is a positive indicator, as the vast majority of European chefs have traditionally insisted that venison could only be cooked in the winter game season.” Wilson says the trial has had two main aims: First, to develop a marketing model for Cervena as a novel summer grilling item, which could then be adapted to other regions in Europe. Second, to explore opportunities for collaboration between the marketers. “So far, the trial is going well on both fronts. In 2017, we will be refining things further, with a focus on communicating what makes Cervena venison unique,

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and on educating chefs,” she said. “We want to ensure that when diners are presented with a Cervena

dish in summer, that chefs can satisfactorily explain what it is. We don’t have the resources to educate consumers, so we need to

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work alongside chefs and use their influence to help get the message out.” Wilson says they will be communicating a simple message: that Cervena is ‘now in season’, it comes from young grass-fed NZ deer, and its consistent quality and flavour make it ideal for chefs to express their creativity. “After the trial is finished, there may be some transitional P2P funding, but our aim is to develop demand that will continue into the future on a business-asusual basis.”

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December 2016

Wool Perspective

From Rob Cochrane GM, Procurement, PGG Wrightson Wool

More returns for your wool.

Wool — good, bad, ugly The end of a wool auction at present reminds me of the end of the old-fashioned western movies when the hero (is that still PC?) rides off into the sunset. However, the current showdown is more about the ‘good’, the ‘bad’ and the ‘ugly’ as wool prices have fallen generally into those three categories of late. The good: Mostly merino but sometimes fine halfbred fleece wool of excellent colour, high tensile strength, low vegetable matter, displaying character and style reflective of the laser scan micron result, well-prepared in the wool shed, each bale well-pressed and clipped and weighing less than 200 kilograms, but more than 180 kilograms. Many bales of the ‘good’ actually returning close in dollar terms per bale as the year in which the famous spaghetti western film was made — 1966. The bad: Mostly crossbred fleece wool of average colour, not necessarily reflective of the colour test result, low tensile strength, webby almost soft cotted, maybe OK for character but not necessarily reflective of the airflow micron test result, containing a few skirtings, therefore not overly well-prepared in the woolshed, variable bale weights averaging around 160 kilograms, but some as low as 115 kilograms, and not necessarily well-pressed and/or clipped. Many of the ‘bad’ struggling to return per kilogram greasy much more than one dollar for each of the films in the aforesaid trilogy. The ugly: Mostly short crossbred oddments, often mixed for fibre length between

If you’re reading this, then so are your customers

the very short and the slightly longer, average to poor colour sometimes reflective of the colour test result, the micron test result bearing little relevance to the end price, low yielding, not the most attractive samples within a broker catalogue. Many of the ‘ugly’ being passed-in by the auctioneer for not attracting much more than a glance from a wool exporter — aka the Man with No-Name. So we have ended the year on a very mixed note from well-sought-after merino wool enjoying a reasonable outlook for the new year, to a crossbred industry which has a rather hazy outlook due mainly to a huge reliance on China, as a buyer of raw material but a country which at present seems to have plenty of wool stocks in raw, semi-processed, or manufactured form, with little quantities moving on through the consumer pipeline. In the middle of the two extremes of wool types are mid-micron, the finest of which have enjoyed a good rub from merino, and the coarsest of which have been affected by the lower crossbred pricing structure. Whilst some of the outlook sounds rather daunting, many of us, who have been involved in the wool industry for a few years now as growers,

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Pay attention! brokers and exporters, know that there can often occur sudden reversals of trend. Unfor tunately the wool market is driven by supply and demand, and we are currently in a trough of low demand for our coarser wool types. That trend will not continue forever and we will experience heroes riding off into the sunset once again. The Good, The Bad and The Ugly was the last of the ‘the dollars trilogy’, incorporating A Fistful of Dollars and For a Few Dollars More — sound familiar? I’m not sure that all of our readers will enjoy their

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Christmas celebrations as much as usual due to many being in unfamiliar surroundings with their families because of (literally) broken homes. Do your best to have a safe and happy Christmas and enjoy the company of family and friends. I’m sure we all look forward to a more bright and prosperous 2017! That’s my view.

around road works

Attn All Sheep Farmers Obtain maximum returns for your dags

M.R.Wools, based in North Canterbury, has export orders for dagwool and requires DRY woolly dags immediately. Bale lines XBD 60c/kg, 1/2 BD $1.10, Merino $2.00/kg delivered. Call Wayne on 027 446 1977 to discuss freight options & queries. Payment terms: direct credit on arrival. Send directly to: M R Wools, 1469 Main North Road, Waikuku, North Canterbury.

Valued Marketers of All Wool Types

Please call

03 347 2314 or email sales@canfarm.co.nz Ring Kevin and there’ll be no rep in a new Falcon to see you. Kevin will turn up with the truck and certified scales. He will load the wool and pay you on the day! From mainline to dags see if you can find any wool buyer who will go further or work harder for your wool.

Phone Kevin today and get the best out of your wool.

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December 2016

LIVESTOCK

CANTERBURY FARMING

Uncommon sense

David Law, Managing Director of Forward Farming Consultancy

The answer does lie in the soil A lot can be learned or assumed by a slow drive down a farmer’s tanker track, particularly if cattle are close enough to observe. To a trained eye, the state of their health is very noticeable, and often the reasons for them not looking in top condition can also be obvious. Arriving at the cowshed can be an eye opener. Empty pallets of containers of used products lying around the implement shed can tell its own story. One particular shed I visited recently had no room for implements as every imaginable additive was stored there! After greeting the farmer we made our way to the primary reason for which I had been called, the effluent pond. Then the real discussion began as we related the state of the pond to their management systems. I will walk you through the issues in this column just as I worked through them with the farmer. Modern farming is plagued by back-to-front

thinking, where it seems the main additive missing is common sense. This farmer then asked me to visit his friend, who was experiencing major animal health issues on his farm, and despite seeking expert advice he had been unable to find any real solution. He started the season on June 1 with 500 cows to calve, and now has a little over 460 to complete the season with. Twenty-two cows died from metabolic problems, 63 had clinical milk fever, and some aborted. Although these cows will be milked, they will only make good milking cows look bad when counted as an average. This problem has been ongoing for four years.

The solution given to fix the problem? More additives! Last summer, farmers, particularly in the North Island, were plagued by uncontrollable facial eczema despite near toxic levels of zinc being administered. The season before, Waikato vets were puzzled by large numbers of young cows breaking their shoulders. They would just be walking along and they would collapse. When you talk around, this problem is quite common. Let’s apply some common sense and look at the big picture. If additives can fix a lot of these ailments then there must be something missing somewhere. Some simple questions arise:

• Could this possibly be associated with what the cows eat? • Is there something missing in the feed? • What is causing deficiencies in the feed? • If grass is grown in soil, is this where the problem is? For the last 40 years the fertiliser industry has adopted the NPK approach. Some forward thinking people call this incomplete soil nutrition. Science states 16 elements are needed to grow balanced grass. After 40 years of largely NPK dominance (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium), then just maybe, without using my calculator, there are approximately 13 nutrients running a tad low in the soils. The general thinking could be that it is too expensive to fully balance the soil and as a result, other nutrients needed are fed directly to the cow as an additive. So

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we now see the additive industry booming. Interesting point — prior to my visit, the farmer that had 22 cows die had been given a fertiliser recommendation of 500kg/ha Superphosphate and 800kg/ha of urea. No attention was given to the elements which will help his metabolic problems. A good full soil test will show up the elements lacking and highlight the cause of this farmer’s frustration. There is a trial in Methven comparing two farms; one using the NPK (incomplete soil nutrition plus additives, and the other farm using the Albecht/Kinsey system of soil fertility. The Albrecht/Kinsey approach of balancing and providing full soil nutrition may assume a higher cost, but they are showing superior results and higher profits overall. Particularly interesting is that the NPK farm developed

serious grass staggers, killing five cows, and 12 down-cows required treatment over a two-week period as bad weather struck during the third rotation (Oct and Nov). Although magnesium-chloride was being administered, the cows drank less water over this period and hence a magnesium deficiency appeared. The treatment was to begin dusting with magnesium on the NPK farm. The Albrecht/Kinsey farm had abundant and balanced magnesium and calcium reserves in the soil to carry them through without issue. From my observations, the modern scientific approach of full soil nutrition and a comprehensive soil analysis will highlight the cause of animal health problems and reduce your animal wastage. Evidence has shown that soils with low zinc create challenges in avoiding eczema. This will be your next issue to face.

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This is a pasture drinker for use where there is a need to prevent cows from contaminating water courses or eroding river banks. A filter is designed to sit in a watercourse above the silt line so it remains submerged but not clogged. The Aquamat™ will stand being outside in winter but is not designed for use in frost (the pump will become brittle and break) so it is best practice to remove it in winter months to protect the diaphragm. The Aquamat™ needs to be installed on a platform to keep it stable and to raise it slightly from the ground. It should be fenced to provide access for one animal at a time. Water in the bowl attracts the animal to drink. It quickly learns to push the level out of its way to reach the water, and the act of pushing the lever aside pumps water from the connected

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What you may not already know A popular belief at present is that a concerted push to reduce the environmental pressure of intensive pastoral farming will mean less pasture grown, resulting in decreasing total farm production, smaller factories and associated infrastructure, fewer dollars being circulated and a decline in economic activity, with communities as a whole suffering.

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In essence, there is an acceptance that present pasture and farm production can only be maintained through the continued degradation of soil. Total milk solid production per hectare has risen over the last thirty years, mainly due to increased supplement being fed and fewer animals being wintered at home. Over the same period the amount of total permanent pasture grown on intensive pastoral farms has steadily fallen in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty. Organic carbon levels in these soils over the same time have also declined, and soils containing the most carbon have the greatest production potential. The link between carbon and

production is fully appreciated by profitable farmers, with the most expensive soils being those that are blackest and deepest. Historically it was always understood that continuously cropped soils yielded less over time, and the remedy was to return those areas to grazed permanent pasture. If soil could be recovered then, why is that not happening now? Modern agriculture has focussed on the nutrient content of soil (mainly NPK), with the inference being that every other aspect is of lesser importance. Maybe if carbon had been included in the measures, the environmental problems faced now would have been avoided.

Soil organic carbon is the basis of humus and provides storage for both nutrient and moisture. There’s a direct link between carbon and nitrogen, so as carbon is sequestered, extra nitrogen can be stored. Carbon acts as a filter, and when it comes to food production, the primary role of pastoral farming, reduced carbon in the soil means less filtering takes place and more spray residue and heavy metal makes its way to us through the food produced from it. A recent article by Blake Holbrook of Rabobank states that the way forward for NZ agriculture is to embrace sustainability. The majority of purchasers have no connection with land and farming practices, but

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do have a firmly held concept of sustainability. As they are the folk that are prepared to pay top dollar for quality food, it is their requirements that must be satisfied for us to achieve those prices. The other option is to continue to provide commodity products sold at auction for a fraction of the price. It’s the story behind the food that people buy, eg where and how grown, and can we go on doing it indefinitely? We all use those multiple criteria, whether we appreciate it or not. Buying decisions are 100% emotional and when it comes to food, those with higher incomes are becoming increasingly choosy. Clean and green is fast becoming outdated. Farmers must go well beyond meeting minimum standards and embrace farming practices that are shown to be truly sustainable, with the cornerstone being soil organic carbon positive. There are products and practices already well-refined that provide farmers with this ability to continuously increase production, outperforming their conventional neighbours, at significantly lower cost. Groups of these switchedon operators are working together to sell their products into markets willing to pay more money than can be made from conventionally produced and marketed commodities. It’s early days for this movement, but momentum is building, and those that get there first will benefit most. For more information contact Peter on 0800 843 809.

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DAIRY

CANTERBURY FARMING

Build your budget Helping farm owners, managers, contract milkers and sharemilkers feel in control of their finances is the aim of the game for the next round of Dairy Women’s Network dairy modules in early 2017. The Network is running a series of workshops called ‘Build your budget; take control’ throughout the country to give those who attend a chance to connect with their peers and those in the sector who know their numbers and how to create annual budgets. “This module is a really exciting one as it has an online component and a twohour workshop get together. We know everyone is really busy on farm and we are combining the flexibility of online with the fun and support of getting together to learn the how to build your budget,” said project leader and DWN member Lynda Clark. “We have designed a very practical module for farmers who want to feel more confident and competent around knowing their numbers, and making their money work for them now and into the future. “The main focus is on creating annual cash budgets but also identifying support networks and mentors, doing stock reconciliations and also doing a monthly cash flow — plus finding out what and where those resources are that are out there.” Ms Clark said people would have different goals, and knowing their numbers gives farmers a chance to plan for those; whether it’s

reinvesting money back into the business or thinking about whether the bottom line is showing enough to do what they want to do for their family. DairyNZ, along with Primary ITO, is one of the funders of the financial workshops, part of a greater body of work to help farmers grow and improve their businesses. DairyNZ senior developer for people and business, Carolyn Bushell says now, more than ever, is a good time for dairy farmers to focus on their financials. “Developing financial budgets, knowing your numbers and regularly monitoring progress is a big part of that,” said Ms Bushell. “We are proud to support these modules which include a blended learning approach that can offer farmers greater flexibility to build these important skills and experience with the support of DWN members.” Primary ITO customer services general manager Alister Shennan says; “Our online learning platform enables attendees to continue learning once the workshop is over. “This is the beauty of a blended course delivery online; as well as enabling greater transparency, instant feedback, valuable reporting and increased versatility of content such as using smart

December 2016

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December 2016

CANTERBURY FARMING

HERITAGE OF THE PLAINS BY ANDY BRYENTON

IN THE GREAT SCOPE OF HISTORY, 45 YEARS MAY NOT SEEM LIKE A LONG TIME. BUT FOR THOSE WHO PRESERVE AND RESTORE THE ARTIFACTS WHICH ARE TOUCHSTONES OF CANTERBURY’S HISTORIC PAST, IT’S BEEN AN EVENTFUL FOUR AND A HALF DECADES!

his year saw the 45th anniversar y of the founding of the Plains Vintage Railway and Historical Museum — a home for living, working examples of technology dating back to colonial times.

The foundation for the museum dates back even further, of course — to the Mount Somers branch railway, laid down 130 years previously. Hardy engineers and construction crews braved the still-rugged

landscape to build more than 40 kilometres of track, designed to bring lignite coal from the slopes of Mount Somers, an extinct volcano, to the growing settlements of the plains. The machines this coal was to feed may

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Beyond steam power — the heritage of diesel has its place here too, as these workhorses of the rails claim their place in the collection

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CANTERBURY FARMING

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Steaming into history — the Plains Railway echoes with the sound of antiquity when their fleet of immaculately restored rolling stock takes to the rails very well be some of those gathered together today in the museum’s agricultural section, where stationary and traction engines sit alongside vintage tractors and working examples of threshers and ploughs. A section of land on museum property is cultivated using these restored and well-caredfor machines today, proving definitively that our ancestors ‘built them to last’. Trains carr ying coal, passengers, goods and even second world war recruits to the military camp near Westerfield, rumbled down the line for decades, but by the 1960s dwindling passenger numbers, the rise of roading and the lack of demand for coal spelt the end of an era. By April of 1968 the rails were silent, but a new initiative had begun to bring them back to life. The seed for what would become the Plains railway and museum was sown when a group of model engineers decided to grasp a piece of local history before it could be torn up and scrapped. Taking the big step up from miniature trains to the genuine article must have seemed a daunting challenge, but there was a clear opportunity to save a slice of history and boost tourism at the same time. The Ashbur ton Railway

& Preser vation Society Incorporated was officially formed on June 4 1971, determined to hold on to not just the legacy of steam on the rails, but also the vintage farm machinery which tamed the plains for agriculture. From the start it was a story of ingenuity and hard work. Materials were recycled, improvised and borrowed, buildings constr ucted and money raised to fund restoration projects, and the whole endeavour really kicked off when the society secured the lease on a true classic — the ex New Zealand Railways number 64, a Dubs A Class 0-4-0 tank engine. This smaller class of locomotive will be familiar to any parent of young boys — it’s the same compact, hard-working kind of machine as the ubiquitous Thomas. This one, however, was reduced to being a static display piece in the local domain, until society member and local John Deere boss, Mr A Bowis, lent the use of his workshop. For eighteen months the locomotive was overhauled, emerging — as if from the works of its origin — a new machine. The model railwaymen were now in the big leagues, custodians of a real working steam loco. Track was negotiated for, buildings came together, and the last golden spike was

driven to open the railway in 1973, by the Minister of Railways himself, Tom McGuigan. His speech at the time noted that steam engines are well worth preserving — but steam engines alone are not all the Plains Vintage Railway and Historical Museum has to offer. Soon after the railway itself came online, a historic village was established, including both newly built and real colonial structures. Farm machinery stored in barns and sheds came

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deco styled Vulcan railcar. If you’re interested in the agricultural history of Canterbury — from the machines which tamed the land to the engines which brought them fuel and took their produce to market — then a visit to this fascinating place is a must. Stop by during the summer holidays to see just what can be done with four and a half decades of grit and determination — preserving the best parts of our technological heritage for future generations.

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the society have plans to install a ‘new’ fully restored turntable system, complete the restoration of a vintage ‘Aa’ class carriage, and revive a mighty 1912 Marshall traction engine, among myriad other projects — including the reinstatement of their own rail-going ‘monster’, the huge Ja 1260 steam locomotive. All this amid the day-to-day business of delighting visitors and running the length of the branch line with either the redoubtable little Dubs engine or the stunning art-

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in, bolstering a huge rural display. Also, the Ashburton volunteer firefighters chose to band together with the railway enthusiasts, bringing a collection of fire appliances, billed as New Zealand’s best, to the site. Right now, they’re having to expand, as the collection deserves an even bigger and better showcase. Expansion and restoration are still the order of the day for the Plains Vintage Railway and Historical Museum, even after 45 years of hard and rewarding work. Currently

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December 2016

RURAL WHEELS

CANTERBURY FARMING

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RURAL WHEELS

CANTERBURY FARMING

December 2016

A fine vintage by Andy Bryenton

The counter-argument to progress is usually that ‘the original is best’. We’ve seen a brand new Mini and a new Mustang, but how about a motor vehicle that’s been stylistically unchanged since the postwar years? Classic Rolling Stones, or outdated rolling stock? Well, the comparison to Mick and the boys is a timely one, because the original Royal Enfield would have been right up there with the Triumph and the Norton as the mode of transport for those original rockers back in the 1960s. Let the mods have their scooters, it seemed to say — this is the ride for a rebel. Time may have turned those curves and chrome from cutting edge to charmingly retro, but the Bullet 500 and its Classic 500 counterpart have one thing that time can only improve — the longest production run of any motorcycle, ever. Part of that is down to the timelessness of the simple, clean-lined design. Part is down to the legendary, easy-to-fix, hardto-kill 500cc motor which chugs away at the Enfield’s heart. But another is the connection to India, that most exotic and dangerous of driving environments. When the Indian police force wanted a bike that

could tackle ever ything from deserts to ice, policing thousands of miles of border and looking out for a billion people, they picked the Royal Enfield. Production of these bikes continues today in Chennai (which was called Madras when the Bullet was new). The topic of popular travel stories, beloved of backpacker s, and still the backbone of the subcontinent’s bike fleet, the Royal Enfield name is carried on by a range of models available here in New Zealand for more leisurely touring. Fuel injection may have replaced old-school carburation, and Chennai is a long way from Redditch, but the familiar note of the Enfield remains as English as county cricket and apple cider. After all, there’s something about saddling up a real vintage-styled classic to take a trip through the Mackenzie Country or out down the coast. Without

the searing power of a racing bike to handle, or the bulk of an American cruiser, it’s a refined and dare we say gentlemanly way to soak up the scenery and become one with the moment. The Indian connection with Royal Enfield goes back a long way. While it’s no big surprise that the subcontinent is a power player in vehicle design and manufacturing today — see Jaguar and Mahindra, for example — the Bullet 500 harks back to the time when the long shadow of English occupation still coloured the local motoring industry, giving us hardy beasts like the Hindustan Ambassador, actually a re-made Morris Oxford. The Bullet, however, flourished in the heat and bustle of India while other grand old English bike brands fell by the wayside back home. A classic story of the Royal Enfield shines some light on

Long production — the Bullet has been a big name in motorcycling for more than 75 years

the appeal of this classic. The travelogue ‘Bitten by the Bullet’ by Steve Krzystyniak and Karen Goa details the journey of a motorcycle tour guide and a party of travellers seeking the ‘real India’ aboard a fleet of Enfield machines. The entire book has been presented as a radio play, and makes for some great summer listening. Check it out at http:// www.radionz.co.nz/national/ programmes/thereading/ collections/readings/bittenby-the-bullet

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RURAL WHEELS

CANTERBURY FARMING

December 2016

You say goodbye, Mini says hello by Andy Bryenton

You can’t improve on the classics. So the saying goes. Though of course, there are those who will insist that you can. 2016 Mustang? Or fusion cuisine wasabi pavlova? Opinions are divided on some modern remakes, though there’s one that’s not up for discussion. The new Mini may actually be a tiny BMW, taken away from it’s true blue British roots and kitted out with German engineering. But it’s got that funky cool britannia look, a whack of power from a turbocharged 231-horsepower four-cylinder engine, and a low, planted stance that helps turn twisty roads into an adventure playground. Now it’s also got a flagship feature film in New Zealand — another big remake of a classic. By the time you read this the trailers for Pork Pie will be on cinema screens, with all the talk and controversy which surrounds the re-imagining of one of New Zealand’s cinematic treasures. The update doesn’t just follow a new blondini gang as they burn a trail of comical destruction toward Invercargill. It also stars the new Mini Cooper S, in bright yellow. The actual car used in the filming of the remake

was recently sold on Trademe to fund the final touches to the movie. Those who may scoff at the idea of the Mini — in any form — as a serious sports car — are well advised to take a spin in this non-sodiminutive racer. With a name taken from the racing Minis of yesteryear — the kind that blitzed bigger rally cars clean off classic tracks such as the rally of Monte Carlo in ‘66 — the Cooper S trades in its previous generation supercharger for a turbo in this iteration, delivering smooth boost with minimal lag. Spacious inside and with a footprint just made for tight cornering, there are few vehicles which can put this big a smile on the average driver’s face. There’s bound to be a big spike in interest when the stunt driving, hard-charging Pork Pie Mini hits the big screen. So if you’ve had

your eye on this thoroughly well-sorted classic remake, get in fast. This Mini is not so much a cover of your favourite classic rock track by a brash young band of unknowns. It’s the original lovingly remastered with the best modern technology. There’s more than just a new movie in the work when it comes to the Pork Pie legacy. As well as the forthcoming re-imagining — helmed by Matt Murphy, son of the original director Geoff and starring Dean O’Gorman, James Rolleston and Ashleigh Cummings — there’s an ongoing saga of madness, minis and Kiwi big-heartedness which has carried the Pork Pie name between cinematic outings. The bi-annual Pork Pie Charity Run involves a crew of Mini drivers in machines both classic and modern, joining forces to hit the road for charity. In 2017 the Pork

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The original supermini — Cooper S hits the screen in a remake of the classic Goodbye Pork Pie

Pie teams will fire up their engines in Kaiataia, departing on Easter weekend to follow the route of the original yellow Blondini Mini. along the way they’ll be raising money for the KidsCan charity, supporting needy Kiwi children. It’s a great

way to raise awareness, with everything from immaculately restored original Minis sharing the road with examples such as Dargaville, Northland driver Graeme Powdrell’s John Cooper Works ‘Minionator’ — a zanily decorated, bodykitted red modern racer.

Look out for the Pork Pie minis as they roll through Canterbury — and check out the new movie when it hits the screen for Waitangi day. Both events simply underline the legacy of this iconic, fun little car as it carries the Cooper badge into its sixth decade.

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Living in the city, I can tell when there’s a full moon because drivers become totally erratic. irrigation for those who have it and the moisture levels for those who don’t. We can’t do a thing about full moons, nor’westers or the weather patterns, so ‘let it go’. Seriously, when things start to get on top of you, find something to laugh about. As farmers you have an advantage as you have stock and domestic animals that you can watch and see the quirky things they do. If that doesn’t work, talk with someone you care about or are mates with, and reminisce about funny things that have happened and you have shared. I am very lucky in so much as I have an amazing number of stories I can recount about a lot of characters I have got to know, and that always seems to work when others are having a bad day or needing a laugh. Funnily enough I have written many of

with Rob Cope-Williams

Full moon nor’westers and the need to laugh They are bad on a wet day for some reason, but a full moon is dynamite. Sadly the same can be said when there’s a nor’wester. The worst combination is a full moon and a nor’wester on the same day. A mate of mine, who is a former policeman, says he can assure you that the combination is very real and when the two hit, the police are full on all night. This season has to be the strangest one I can ever remember with weird weather patterns, cold rainy days, overcast for several days, then two days fine and back again. Trying to farm through this must be totally frustrating. Contractors are unable to get silage or hay in, crops desperate for sunshine, and goodness knows how or when they will ripen. The only silver lining I suppose is the reduction in

December 2016

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the stories down and when I am low I take a look at them and that will spark other memories, and the problems seem to drift away. So when your moon is full and people around you are being strange, or there’s yet another nor’wester and you feel tired and grumpy,

take some time out and find something to laugh about, or someone who can take your mind off things. Laughter will get you through, it does for me and it does for others. As they say, it’s the best medicine available, and you don’t need to pay your doctor to get it.

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