Canterbury Farming, February 2013 by Integrity Community Media

February 2013

28,850 copies distributed monthly – to every rural mailbox in Canterbury and the West Coast.

INSIDE SOUTH ISLAND

‘Get off your backsides’ — Plea to sheep farmers

AGRICULTURAL

By Hugh de Lacy

FIELD DAYS

A plea to sheep farmers to ‘get of their backsides’ and start making the sheep meat and wool industries profitable has come from former Minister of Primary Industries David Carter as he takes up his new role as Speaker of Parliament.

FEATURE ISSUE

Carter held the agriculture portfolio from 2008, but following his promotion by Prime Minister John Key he has been succeeded by Nathan Guy. Carter told Canterbury Farming his administration had two principal achievements to its credit, the reinforcement in the public’s mind of the critical role of agriculture in the nation’s economy, and the breaking of the deadlock over making water available for irrigation.

Pages 19-43

The big disappointment has been the failure to shake sheep farmers out of their lethargy and force their toe-dragging meat co-operatives to collaborate in the global marketplace, instead of locking inefficiencies into the supply chain at home, and undercutting themselves and the independent meat companies in the marketplace. “I’m staggered that last year, when they amassed losses collectively of around

$100 million between the two big companies, that wasn’t enough to galvanise interest in the shareholders of Silver Fern Farms and the Alliance Meat Company,” Carter said. “Farmers need to get off their backsides, stop being apathetic, and realise that it’s their industry, it’s their future, and if they got activated and engaged I‘ve no doubt they could deliver long-term benefits to the industry and their own profits.” The chance to shake up the big co-ops which control about 60% of the red meat industry will come when Beef and Lamb New Zealand seeks farmers’ voting support, at its annual meeting in Wanaka on March 8, for the Government’s $65m Collaboration for Sustainable Growth programme, announced at the end of last month. Beef and Lamb wants farmer agreement to fund its $19.7m share of the programme’s cost by a combination of old Meat Board reserves and the spending annually of $2.8m over seven years. The aim is to raise the standards and sophistication of sheep and beef farm business management, and the first

exercise will be to research ways to stimulate farmer buy-in. The project has the support of the two co-ops, as well as independents Affco, Anzco, Blue Sky and Progressive Meats, banks ANZ and Rabobank, and corporate advisor Deloitte. Successive pleas over the years from lobby and industry groups for the co-ops to collaborate for the good of all have fallen on deaf ears, with farmers showing little inclination to force their feuding leaders into line. “We’ve got to do it or otherwise we’re going to continue to see more and more people converting land into dairying, and then we’re going to become so dependent on the dairy industry internationally for the New Zealand economy, and that’s a risk,” Carter said.

that has been seen over the past two seasons.

“Why can’t that be the catalyst to drive something together?” Carter asked.

The independents had in the past indicated a willingness to sit down with the co-ops and Beef and Lamb to create an expansive structure for the industry.

farmers with interests both companies.

The main reason the co-ops’ leaders cite for resisting any merger or close collaborative arrangement is that it would expose them to a bleeding of supply to the rival. Carter said he believed that could be addressed by insisting the farmers sign up loyally to supply contracts.

He contrasted meat farmers’ reluctance to take up and stick with supply contracts with that of dairy farmers who “sign up to a company and continue that loyalty throughout [their] farming career.

Historically, whenever a meat company has attempted to secure its supply by contracts with farmers, other players take the opportunity to manipulate farmgate prices so farmers abrogate the contract and supply the spot market instead.

“That doesn’t happen in the meat industry,” where 25-30% of the two co-ops’ shareholdings are held by

Carter said it was the coops, not the independent meat companies that were locking farmers into the price volatility

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It would involve cutting inefficiencies “whereby you’ve got lambs being drafted from the bottom of the North Island across to South Island plants for processing, and almost the same thing happening with lambs being drafted, say in Marlborough, and going north. “We’ve got to find a way to eliminate that excessive cost, and we’ve got to get farmers to become far more focussed on loyalty to companies and signing themselves up to longterm contracts.” Both farmers and the company have “got to be prepared to stick to it through thick and thin,” Carter said.

February 2013

Fires — Please be careful The smell of fire in Canterbury, in the height of summer, is enough to send most rural people (including me) scampering to find the source of the fire — is it a controlled burn off, is it an uncontrolled and accidental outbreak or is it under control? Kate Wilkinson

We have crops nearly ready, or ready, for harvest, dry grass paddocks and the ubiquitous Nor West winds which can fan a fire for miles. Not a good

combination. Vigilance is essential. Most of us are aware that the mere spark from a mower or other machinery may be all that is needed

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to create an inferno. It is disappointing however that there are still some people who do not think about the dangers or are not aware of the dangers. I was dismayed while walking down my own driveway to see a discarded cigarette butt! It may well be that the butt was well and truly out before it was discarded. But equally so it may be the casual unthinking act of someone who really is ignorant of the dangers. Many will remember the significant fire in Southland last year in November. The fire burned over 400ha within the Waituna Wetland and continued to burn for several days. Apart from the immediate loss of native plants and animals and their habitat, future concerns

Photo: Brian Dimbleby

include the invasion of weeds, which the wetlands are particularly susceptible to, and the need to restore habitat, especially for birds. This fragile wetland environment is nationally and internationally important for wildlife. The Awarua Wetland is one of the largest remaining wetland complexes in New Zealand, and is home to more than 80 different species of bird, sixteen nationally and regionally uncommon plants, lizards and a prolific range of insects.

The Southern Rural Fire Authority (DOC, Southland DC, Invercargill DC, Gore DC, Forestry Industry and NZFS) were all mobilised to deal with the fire. Five fire crews and four helicopters worked on it. It was significant not just because of the huge area involved and the cost and commitment required to put it out but also because of the conservation values at risk — Waituna Lagoon/ Awarua Bay wetland complex is a wetland of national significance and a Ramsar site. Difficult terrain

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and strong winds caused problems for fire fighters. Closer to home there were devastating fires in the Selwyn area which not only destroyed trees, crops and pasture but also homes. Fires do not discriminate! My thoughts go out to those who have lost treasured possessions and homes. Whilst summer is nearing an end and hopefully the worst of the danger is over it is time to reflect on the hard work and dedication of our fire fighters, both voluntary and paid and including Department of Conservation fire fighters who toiled so hard and selflessly to keep us and our homes safe. To them all we owe a huge debt of gratitude — thank you.

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Canterbury Farming prints material contributed by freelance journalists, contributing columnists and letters from readers. The information and opinions published are not necessarily those of Canterbury Farming or its staff. Canterbury Farming takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. Canterbury Farming is published by NorthSouth Multi Media Ltd

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February 2013

From the Minister

Nathan Guy, Minister for Primary Industries It’s a huge honour to be appointed as the new Minister for Primary Industries, and my first week in the job has already been extremely busy. I grew up with farming. My family has a dairy farm just north of Levin and I’ve had a long involvement in the agriculture industry, from Young Farmer competitions right through to overseas study. The primary sector is the powerhouse of New Zealand’s economy. It is worth around $30 billion a year, and makes up 70% of our exports. Industries like fishing, forestry, horticulture, aquaculture and farming are hugely important to regional economies like Southland. As Minister I want to help build a greater awareness amongst the wider public of just how important our primary industries are. The Government has an ambitious goal of increasing exports from 30% to 40% of GDP by 2025. The primary industry will need to play a major part in this by improving productivity, maintaining high standards, increasing the value of what we export, and opening new markets.

Balancing environmental issues with economic growth will be a major challenge, but one in which New Zealand can be a world leader. I’ll be working closely with Environment Minister Amy Adams on water reform and changes to the Resource Management Act, both of which will provide a real boost to the primary sector. Animal welfare issues will also be important, and as always, biosecurity will remain a major priority. A lot of good work is underway to improve the co-ordination of our border agencies and better target risk. I’ve enjoyed working closely with David Carter in my previous role as Associate Minister and I’m looking forward to carrying on his good work. He has a challenging new role as Speaker of the House and I’m sure he’ll do a great job. I’ll be getting around the country a lot in the near future, meeting people involved in our primary industries. I’m looking forward to rolling up my sleeves and getting stuck in.

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If it doesn’t get mouldy, i won’t eat it It’s funny how a chance meeting can change your whole look at life, but it happened to me last week. I was chatting with a chap who pours Bio Brew, a living probiotic, onto his pasture to make the grass sweeter and therefore more alkaline and therefore much better for his stock.

Plus there’s a story circulating about commonly used ingredient that replaces butter that was made for feeding poultry but because the birds refused to eat it, it was turned into a human food to recoup costs, and it has taken off. Some processed cheeses are referred to as plastic for a very good reason.

Basically by reducing the acidity in the soil the bad things such as grass grubs and a lot of things that attack his livestock can’t live in an alkaline rich environment.

So here’s the punch line. Processed food is poisoning us and it is being blamed for the huge increases in health problems and obesity within our population.

Great idea and it certainly made sense to me. However the conversation didn’t stop there. He then went on to describe in great detail how we humans have gone from being very healthy types to a race of people who suffer from cancer and other ailments that our forebears didn’t. Figure such as a couple of decades ago cancer hit about 1 person in 30, more recently it was 1 in 5 and now it’s even worse than that. So why? He took me back to the alkaline versus acidity conversation and was adamant that the reason is simply the processed food we eat. One hears stories of fast food being left for a month or more on a window sill and it still looked OK.

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Meat, vegetables and fruit with cheeses that will go mouldy are fine, much of the other foods aren’t in his opinion. Two main stays for his family are flax seed oil, which is produced in Geraldine, and cottage cheese. He boasts feeling fitter than he can ever remember and hasn’t had a cold or anything since changing his diet. Basically his body cells aren’t clogged up with acidic glug and his whole body is humming with sweet alkaline filled cells. So there you are, that’s why I have decided to only eat food that can go mouldy, and thankfully scotch, brandy, wine, gin and beer are processed naturally.

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He says his diet is now totally what is grown naturally and doesn’t contain any preservatives.

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February 2013

O’Connor Comments With Damien O’Connor, Opposition Spokesman on Agriculture

The tide always turns There has been a growing number of commentators, columnists and politicians expressing public concern for the Meat and Wool industries lately. It had been quiet for a couple of years after different initiatives attempted to direct a better future for these two sectors

that are so important for our rural economy. Everyone had their fingers crossed that the strategies and fundraising activities

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would bring some unity to a couple of injured elephants, still big in size but slow to change direction.

that support business as usual initiatives rather than leading a new strategy for growth for farmers.

The prices for farmers improved for a time when farmers were agitated and exporting companies needed something to sell. But with the excuse of a high dollar and the ongoing global slowdown, meat and wool prices have returned to unviable levels and farmers are exiting the sectors.

Without structural change in the meat and wool sectors, both will shrink to irrelevance in the international marketplace. Just when the marketing advantages of biodegradable, renewable fibre and natural pasture based protein are glaringly obvious, New Zealand farmers are exiting to 'put all their milk in one bucket' as an alternative land use.

The downward spiral of dry stock farming continues and the National Government sits on its hands and watches. To make matters worse the Government has wasted millions of taxpayer dollars on grants to these sectors

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While the returns for dairying are better, the risks to both farmers and the New Zealand economy of a country dependent on one sector have become clearer

over the last few weeks. Whether it be a Biosecurity incursion or a possible food safety scare, our hard won reputation as a food producer is always at risk. It is then that diversity in our economy is just as important as diversity in our communities. If it wasn't for diverse enthusiastic new migrants, our rural communities and towns would be struggling. And so it is for industry sectors. We need a government that promotes new and exciting opportunities built

off our natural competitive advantages. Sitting back and letting traders and faulty markets determine the future of rural New Zealand and our economy is not good enough. The growing sales of capital stock in the sheep industry is a warning for us all. It's a shame the National Government is not awake to the dangers ahead. We need a 'hands on' government with plans for a better future. Unfortunately we may have to wait until 2014 for such a government under Labour.

February 2013

My point of view

allen Cookson

Avoiding austerity The government is attempting to trim its expenditure to reduce its debt. They are faced with the cost of the Canterbury earthquakes and a global recession which has reduced taxable earnings. There seems to be no alternative to a degree of austerity, though less than Greece’s and Spain’s. Greece illustrates the consequences of irresponsible government spending. In Greece’s case there were corrupt payments to public servants, with dishonest accounting hiding deficits which would lead to financial collapse. There is a myth among Keynesian economists that a government can solve all these problems simply by unlimited borrowing. This has been tried and inevitably leads to disaster. Although recent New Zealand governments have been reasonably responsible over government debt, there is a strange belief among politicians that private debt does not matter. They should consider Spain’s experience. Spain was arguably more strict in managing its government accounts than Germany. That didn’t stop Spaniards

from going mad in a building bubble, nor German banks from their lending madness. With the rules of the Eurozone, there was little the Spanish government could do. Today, with the European Central Bank’s enforcement of a government bailout of Spanish banks, which borrowed from Germany to lend to Spaniards, the country has the highest unemployment in Europe, and immense suffering for most of its people. Iceland’s ignorant, incompetent government encouraged reckless private borrowing for luxuries. When the bubble burst, the government planned to bail out the banks who had borrowed from European banks. Instead mass rallies and two referenda forced bank defaults and nationalisation, despite pressure from European governments for Iceland’s government to bail out its banks. Iceland’s krona depreciated 28% against the US$. By 2010, after most of the pain, its budget deficit was only 6.3% GDP, so much had tourism and exports benefitted. Iceland is not in the EU. The alternative, Spanish-style austerity, to pay for the bailout, would have meant

decreasing revenue for government, leading to cuts in essential services. A vicious circle leading ever downward! IMF economists Jaromir Benes and Michael Kumhof in August 2012 revived in modern form, a 1930s (Great Depression) proposal by respected economists: replacing interest-bearing debt-money created by banks with debtfree money created by the Federal Reserve (US equivalent of our Reserve Bank). Benes and Kumhof show that this would allow quick liquidation of Federal debt, removal of financial instability and kickstart the economy.

As in the US, nearly all NZ money exists as interest-bearing debt to banks, mainly foreign-owned here. A reform along the lines of these IMF economists’ proposal, along with other reforms, would be a great help in dealing with government debt, unemployment and Canterbury reconstruction.

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February 2013

Local heroes face the flames by andy Bryenton

the sound aland is familiar with Ze w Ne l ra ru in es at when they hear Everyone who liv en, and they know th sir s e' ad ig br e fir l eir friends of the loca that a number of th es us ho d an s ld fie e it ring out over th answer its call. opping everything to dr e ar rs ou hb ig ne and

People from all walks of life put aside work and family to rush to the fire station, going into battle against one of the oldest ‘enemies’ of civilisation — out-of-control fires which can destroy lives and property in a terrifyingly short time.

with your life, and bet on their abilities. It really is like going into battle.” Kelvin says that when he first moved to the picturesque rural district where he lives he was put off by the then fire chief’s gruff demeanour. But later when the brigade were on a recruitment drive he signed up, and has never looked back.

Kelvin Green is one such volunteer, fighting fires with the West Melton Rural Fire Brigade in Canterbury. “The training was He views it as a way comprehensive,” he says. to help his community, “There’s no doubt that it fulfilling a vital role sorts the men from the and contributing to the boys! But there’s a place Volunteer fire fighter Kelvin Green safety and wellbeing of for everyone in the fire (Northsouth Multi Media sales Director) the place he lives, but service. I learned that his time with the rural volunteer fire service the most important part was listening and has also been a journey of learning, personal obeying orders — your life could rely on growth and challenge. working with discipline.” “The greatest thing you get out of being part of the fire brigade is the camaraderie,” he says. “You know you can rely on your fellow firefighters, that you can trust them literally

While all rural firefighters are volunteers, only a small permanent cadre are paid, and these are usually attached to cities. The NZ Fire service are distinct from the Rural Fire

Photo: Bob King, West Melton Rural Fire Force

a training exercise where conditions are kept as close to a real situation as possible.

Authority, though organisational differences are put aside when the time comes to fight a life-threatening blaze. All branches of the fire service trace their history back to military roots back in colonial-era Britain, which is where a little of the discipline Kelvin mentioned comes from. Firefighters still drill and train with military precision, and when you consider the foe they go into battle against, it’s easy to see why such accuracy and skill are needed. Just this summer the news media has reported on some immense blazes tearing through the tinder-dry forests and fields of New Zealand, and from the air these infernos seem frightening enough. On the ground, working often in the path of roaring walls of flame, the danger is far more immediate and that drilled discipline comes into play.

Kelvin recalls his first call-out as an example. “That first one was a reasonable size alright. It’s all very well putting water on a pretend fire during training, but until you face the real thing you don’t really know if you have it in you. Thankfully, you’re never thrown into the deep end if you work with the rural fire service. You can always be confident in your training, and in the veterans and experienced firefighters who stand with you.” Standing together in the face of disasters is the big strength of our volunteer fire brigades. During one recent ‘incident’ — a huge fire which threatened to burn out of control in rural Canterbury — brigades from 30 and 40 kilometres away answered the call and joined forces to quash the flames. And its not just fire which has these local heroes on call. Rural fire departments respond

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“ You know you can rely on your fellow firefighters, that you can trust them literally with your life, and bet on their abilities. It really is like going into battle. ” to all manner of emergencies, including car accidents and serious crashes. Kelvin says that as a rural firefighter he’s had to face the daunting task of cutting people — neighbours, friends and locals — from wrecks, and in one case he was able to help save the life of a person he knows well by getting them into the hands of paramedics quickly. Prevention is also a huge part of the job, especially in the heat of summer when conditions are dry. “We have to remind people to respect the rules and fire restrictions,” says Kelvin. “For example, a big concern right now is the burning off of stubble — farmers often get this wrong. The safe way — and the law — is to maintain a firebreak around the burn-off of not less than ten metres of bare mineral earth. Some of the measurements of ten metres men have shown us make me feel sorry for their wives!”

that access ways are clear for fire trucks and watching out for dangers, the work load on the fire brigade can be minimised, and lives can be saved. Chances are that you know a rural firefighter or two in your own town — they could be your local mechanic, butcher, or schoolteacher, or even one of your neighbours or close friends. Kelvin urges people to support their local brigade in any way they can, noting that all of these ‘small town heroes’ are unpaid volunteers who risk their lives to help keep their communities safe. Next time you see your local firefighters fund raising, drop them a coin or two. Or better yet, consider for yourself the possibility of signing up, and fighting the good fight for your town, your friends and family.

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Money Talk

W ith Andrew W yllie

Our National Superannuation is available to all New Zealanders on attaining the age of 65 who satisfy certain rules particularly in respect to residency. However there are some features of the scheme which everybody needs to be aware of.

may be eligible for National super and that they should approach WINZ to arrange a time to call at a WINZ office. WINZ will provide a pack for the caller which includes an application form which must be completed and taken to the interview.

It is becoming more common for people to continue to work after they reach 65 but they will be eligible for National Super even though they continue to work. In most cases where the worker is earning wages they will need to get a special tax rate for the National Superannuation entitlement, otherwise they may end up with a large tax bill at the end of the financial year.

WINZ will not pay arrears of National Super if the applicant delays applying until sometime after they are 65. So it is up to every individual to ensure that they apply well before they attain 65. Where other allowances are granted, like the 'living alone' payment it is incumbent on the superannuitant to inform WINZ that the circumstances have changed and the payments will be adjusted.

In many instances IRD will send out a letter to the tax payer when they are close to 65 advising them that they

The definition of 'income' is broader under the WINZ legislation than its usual interpretation

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especially where a superannuitant adds on a non-eligible spouse to their National Super. Superannuitants are allowed to leave NZ for up to 26 weeks provided they intend to return. With the use of computers and co-operation among government departments WINZ can monitor a superannuitant’s leaving and entering the country. If a superannuitant leaves and does not return within the 26 weeks WINZ will take steps to recover any overpayment of National Super. There are rules about overseas pensions being deducted from National Super payments. It is therefore essential to make it clear to WINZ if you receive payments of an overseas pension. All in all the NZ National Superannuation Scheme is fair to all but there are always some anomalies which inevitably arise. If there is any doubt on any point, it should be disclosed and discussed with WINZ. This article has been prepared by Bessie Paterson, a Partner with Ronald Angland and Son, Solicitors, who may be contacted on Tel: 03 349 4708 or e-mail bessie@ anglands.co.nz

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It’s hard to believe that another Super Rugby season kicks off this week and whilst it will be hard go past the Crusaders, the team to watch this year has to be the Highlanders. A pre-season win over us, plus some astute off season signings all bode well for them. This month I wanted to have a look further afield at the global outlook for 2013 and in particular at the United States, Europe and China. Looking back, the past four years have been very difficult for investors, with reluctant bears being forced to participate in an equity market rally since March 2009 and some perhaps worrying that it will all end badly. However since late 2012, investor sentiment has improved and there is some evidence investors have become more confident about the future in general and the equity market in particular. As a result we have seen a surge in equity prices over the last quarter in particular and market talk about a 'great rotation' out of bonds and into equities. This rotation assumption was supported by a substantial increase in dividends and share buybacks in the United States market last year as companies tried to preempt any increases in taxes proposed as part of the yearend fiscal cliff negotiations. These funds were most likely reinvested back into the equity markets. So it is probably all a bit premature to conclude that a great rotation out of bonds and into equities has started, but with equity markets near multi-year highs, the question

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United States Economy There are actually a whole host of reasons to be optimistic about the state of the United States economy. Besides a recovering housing market, corporate profits and balance sheets have been strong, while bankruptcies and delinquencies are falling; private debt has been slashed, inflation is only modest, payrolls are very lean, interest rates remain at record lows and inventories are under control. Energy independence and manufacturing re-shoring are significant developments for the United States economy and are part of the reason why China’s capital account has turned from a surplus to a deficit (global manufacturers are moving elsewhere as labour costs are rising in China). The United States has abundant natural gas at very cheap costs to industry and households. The IT revolution is spreading across a whole range of industries creating tools to increase the pace of innovation, boost productivity and lower costs. The United States manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index (M-PMI) rose sharply in January, continuing a recovery in industrial activity from the middle of last year. Employment indexes also continue to increase, consistent with on-going strength in payroll employment. Europe Over in Europe procrastination has been the name of the game; choosing

Keep in touch with the markets and investment views wherever you are

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to defer rather than deal with issues. Whilst crisis management has been Europe’s preferred course of action over the last few years, it is pleasing to have a credible plan of action in place. A phased in banking supervision system is underway this year and plans for fiscal consolidation, deposit insurance schemes and jointly issued Eurobonds are on the agenda. Most European economies have adopted austerity measures but there are signs fiscal drag may be stabilising. Even if governments hold steady with their fiscal balances rather than cutting expenditure further, this will be a significant net positive relative change for the region. The well publicised recession in this region has actually not been getting any worse and many PMI’s have been inching higher. Economic sentiment has gone up and business confidence is rising. China China’s relationship with the rest of the world is becoming more balanced, with recent data showing China soaking up less money from the outside world and its Central Bank intervening less in markets. Retail sales, industrial production, real estate investment, electricity production and consumption have all been improving over a number of months. Policy easing and fast wage growth is likely to support a return to house-price increases and continued infrastructure investment that may underpin growth in the 6% to 8% p.a. range for several years yet. China only accounts for 10% of global GDP, but its rate of growth is so much stronger than other developed economies it has a disproportionate impact on global manufacturers. If you would like to confidentially discuss your investment requirements please give me a call.

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National Superannuation

It’s great to have this continuation of hot sunny weather during what has been a real summer period. I think the general consensus now is that most people would be very happy with a few inches of rain to green things up again.

Andrew Wyllie is an Authorised Financial Adviser with Forsyth Barr in Christchurch. To contact him about Portfolio Management, ﬁxed interest or share investments call 0800 367 227 or andrew.wyllie@ forsythbarr.co.nz. To ﬁnd out more about Forsyth Barr visit www.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.

rUraL ProFessioNaLs

Capon Madden Limited report on recent tax changes The Taxation (Annual Rates, Return Filing, and Remedial Matters) Act was enacted on November 2, 2012. Income tax rates remain unchanged from the 2012 year. However required KiwiSaver contributions did change for both employers and employees. From April 1, 2013, for employers, the minimum contribution rate for KiwiSaver increases to 3% of the employees' gross pay. For employees, unless they already contribute 4% or 8% of their gross pay, the required contribution is now increased from the previous 2% to 3% of gross pay.

Inland Revenue has also recently issued a statement that clarifies its view on accommodation allowances paid by an employer for an employee. This applies both to circumstances where the employer pays on behalf of the employee or the employer provides the accommodation directly. The related allowance is to be added into the employee’s gross pay. PAYE should be deducted from the gross pay

As part of the Government 2012 Budget, the tax credit for children covering the tax on the first $2,340 of income from employment was repealed. From April 1, 2013, PAYE must be deducted from wages paid to employees including primary or secondary school children and relevant wage details are to be included in the Employers Monthly Schedule filed with Inland Revenue. Each employee should also complete a Tax Code Declaration by April 1, 2-13 for retention by the employer

including any allowance for accommodation provided by the employer. Capon Madden Limited, Chartered Accountants, are specialist farm accountants and are experienced in all aspects of rural accounting services. They operate from ofﬁces at 12 Main North road, Papanui, Christchurch (phone 03 354 9645) and 73 Burnett Street, Ashburton (phone 03 307 8970)

Partner Gerard Thwaites is a specialist in private client and rural matters with 20 years’ experience and personal involvement in the farming community. • Refinancing, Sales & Purchases • Subdivisions • Trusts & Estates Contact Gerard on 029 233 3447 or 03 352 3923 Email: gerard.thwaites@laneneave.co.nz

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February 2013

Solitary farming By Lorne Kuehn

Many farmers work alone by necessity or choice on farms that cannot support two people working full-time. It has always been thus. The farming experience selects out those that have the resolve and capability to go it alone. They can stay and make a go of the operation. The rest can go home. Like the old saying, ‘go hard or go home’. Inevitably, there comes a time when the solitary farmer has a close shave or a fright and must reappraise the dangers of working alone. These can be very serious and life-threatening but they can also be comical as in the case of an old farmer crawling up on the roof to make a repair and finding that he cannot get back down safely. This is the time to make a call to the fire department if he has a cellphone. Many (old) farmers do not have such modern conveniences so it might be a long wait until someone comes to the farm by chance.

chicks, the pen and almost the nearest shed before I was able to intervene.

in the evening twilight to the house being painted and saw that the farmer was still there, standing next to The most poignant story his tractor. He went over More than one old in this regard was told to immediately and found farmer in my experience me by an old Maori painter that the farmer had one of has died as a result of trying who I hired to help paint his arms pinned by the pile to deal with an inadvertent my farmhouse. He had been driver and was completely fire that got out of hand painting another farmhouse unable to move or get to and became deadly the controls that could dangerous. One release him. The painter …after several hours solitary old chap released the machine’s he left to go home, noticing hold on the farmer who died in his kitchen after his lunchtime then collapsed from the that the farmer had not cooking caused flooding of fresh blood moved from the fence the stove to burn into the pinioned limb. down the kitchen and was standing by the The painter got the and the farmhouse, pile driver that was used farmer into his car and overcoming him in hurried with him to a the process. Another to drive the posts into local hospital where had a fire break out the ground. He had been doctors were able to in his barn due to overheating of a stationary in the one place save the arm. farm vehicle. The The farmer told the all afternoon. fire was eventually painter that he had been put out by the fire ready to collapse when he at another location and had brigade but the excitement was rescued and that he noticed that a neighbouring exacted such stress of probably would have died if farmer was working on the old fellow that he help had not come. the boundary fence. The succumbed shortly after. painting went on and after Of course, the farmer was I have had my own several hours he left to go an old boy with no wife or frightful experiences home, noticing that the relative back at his house involving farm fires. I farmer had not moved from to raise the alarm and come was charging a flat tractor the fence and was standing out to look for him. So he battery in a tractor inside a by the pile driver that was was extremely lucky at farm shed. I walked away used to drive the posts into the concern of the Maori after setting up the cables the ground. He had been painter and the resulting and did not see that they stationary in the one place rescue. had shifted, shorting out the all afternoon. power supply and igniting The farmer was so The painter didn’t think both the tractor and the shed. grateful that he bought I was able to extinguish the that anything was untoward the painter a new freezer small blazes but it was a at the time and went home with an entire good cattle close call. Another time I to his evening meal but he beast’s meat packaged up was incubating some guinea could not get the thought inside it. fowl chicks inside a small out of his head that the pen only to have the heating farmer should have been These tales underline lamp collapse and cause moving around more than the dangers of solitary work a fire which burned up the he did. So he drove back on a farm.

“

”

February 2013

Pure South on board for butchery Tri Nations When most Kiwis think of the Tri Nations, rugby is what comes to mind. But there’s a different Tri Nations contest which carries the same amount of kudos and glory for the victors — one which builds on the core skills of the butchery profession. Alliance Group’s export brand Pure South has been confirmed as principal sponsor of the annual butchery ‘test match’ between New Zealand’s ‘Sharp Blacks’ and the best butchers from Australia and Britain. The Pure South Butchery Tri Nations puts industry professionals’ skills with the knife to the ultimate test, and next March the action takes place in Wanaka — a

scenic backdrop for some intense rivalry. Murray Brown, the marketing manager of Alliance Group’s, says that it’s fitting that the Pure South brand is backing a world-class competition. “We’re pleased Pure South is supporting some of the world’s top butchers as they battle it out for the top honours. After a decade representing Alliance

Group’s lamb in more than 65 countries worldwide, Pure South is now well-established as a brand associated with outstanding quality. The Tri Nations symbolises all the key elements of Alliance Group — pure southern location, world-class technology, production techniques and a proud heritage.” 2013 will inaugural Tri

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February 2013

Matters of number 8 wire technology and sustainable farming processor heads, but still used by ground-based loggers. Gallagher, another number 8 wire technologist, supplied the power behind electric fences. These units are sold worldwide.

In my book number 8 wire technology has everything to do with sustainable farming. It means you use the limited resources at hand. More recently, an assortment of IT nerds, financial advisors and various commentators on the state of our economy have been pooh poohing us number 8 wire advocates. They reckon we are a bunch of has beens from the back blocks. Non progressives, living in the past, outdated and without a clue on how to utilise all the wonderful technological advances — mostly based on the silicon chip. To get with it we must eschew our rough and ready ways if we want to better our standard of living, or at least get the country out of hock. It seems the way to do this is to patent more computer games, iphones, produce CDs and hock off every boy and girl band in the cities. Kim Dotcom has shown us how to do it. Lets face it, number 8 wire has been superseded by the thinner unpliable high tensile wire and electric fencing, almost impossible to do anything much with it except string it along fences. But let us not forget what number 8 wire technology actually stands for. A simple mathematical equation is it equals innovation, inventiveness thinking beyond the square, acquiring

multi skills, avoiding tunnel vision. Surely these concepts must be what this country's business leaders, educationists, politicians and the general public should be promoting. This does not necessarily exclude the odd nerd fiddling around with electronics in a back shed. During earlier pioneering days, isolation in rural areas, lack of basic materials, transport and communications meant that farmers did not survive unless they made use of what they had in hand. Number 8 wire was one basic material that had multiple uses. That is apart from keeping stock in paddocks. But the technology has evolved. Land owners in sheds throughout the land have been putting together implements to make it easier to work the land and handle stock. One prime example is CW Hamilton of Irishman's Creek inventing the jet boat to help muster stock in the river catchments. He was also something of a pioneer in hydraulics. There are not many farm work sheds without welding gear, both arc and gas. Innovation is still evident, not only in farming, but in other industries. The George delimber was built by a Canterbury forestry harvest contractor and marketed by International Harvester, since being overtaken by mechanised

So how does number 8 wire mentality help sustainable agriculture? Again a certain amount of innovation counts. It’s a matter of sustainable farming surviving against modern trends brought on by corporate agribusiness. There is a choice, according to Glenn Mead, chairman of the organic Dairy and Pastoral Group New Zealand. "The choice we must make is between sustainable agriculture and corporate agribusiness." He warns that corporate agribusiness is about exploiting farmers by selling them artificial fertilisers and agrichemicals as well as patented GE crops. He says sustainable farming is about farmers being profitable in perpetuity. "Treat the environment well. No need for artificial product A, or magic bullet B to fix the problems caused by artificial product A. Scientists working on the International Assessment of Agricultural Science for Development (IAASTD) report for the United Nations state clearly the way to feed the world is sustainable, climatesmart agriculture, not GE crops and oil dependent chemicals. Glenn Mead writes that while research into sustainable farming practices has always been underfunded in NZ, public and corporate money is being lavished on experimenting with genetic engineering technologies here and in trials conducted on behalf of NZ overseas. This can be achieved at lower cost with currently available technologies, different varieties of plant or animals, or different management techniques. In other words by the more innovative hands-on multi-skilled farmer.

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Mead believes agribusiness technologies and practices decrease rather than increase the chances of being able to feed a global population predicted to rise to 12 billion. "The world currently wastes enough food through poor utilisation to feed the predicted future population."

The two most common chronic muscle problems are Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) and Fibromyalgia (FM). Both FM and PMR are autoimmune diseases and result in muscle pain but that is about where the similarities stop. PMR mostly affects those over 60 and common symptoms are stiffness and pain commonly around the neck and shoulders especially in the mornings. Around 20% of people with PMR also develop Temporal Arteritis. This is caused by inflammation of the major arteries which pass through the temple causing vision problems and even blindness. The major medical therapy is the steroid prednisone which blocks the production of inflammatory cytokines usually with a rapid reduction in symptoms. Many recover in a year or so but others have this for an extended period or find that it recurs after a period of remission. People on statin medicines need to be aware that these can exacerbate PMR symptoms which is why I invariably add CoQ10 to those with PMR who take statins. Nutritional therapy complements the effects of prednisone by reducing immune system production of inflammatory chemicals. We add a wide range of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds to assist energy production and to lower inflammation. Serious fatigue is a feature of PMR and increases in

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energy is often the first benefit people feel from nutritional therapy. FM is a lot more complex. These are often referred to as FM syndromes as they involve other problems especially Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. There are relatively few medical treatment options but the most common are tri-cyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline taken in single evening doses to treat both pain and insomnia. FM is more difficult to treat with nutritional therapy as it is not a simple inflammatory problem. It appears that muscle mitochondria are damaged by free radicals which impair muscle fibre function which reduces energy and causes pain (M. Cordero et al, 2010). I have found people get real benefits from intensive multiantioxidant therapy including CoQ10, OPC, resveratrol and many others. I always add broad spectrum vitamin and minerals and often high dose MSM before bed to help with muscle oxygenation. Curiously, as with PMR people with FM often notice an improvement in energy before any reduction in pain. Give me a call if you need help.

John Arts is the founder of Abundant Health Ltd. You can contact John on 0800 423 559 or email john@ johnarts.co.nz. You can join his weekly newsletter at www.johnarts.co.nz. For product information visit www.abundant.co.nz

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February 2013

Steam powered Canterbury a farming history

By andy Bryenton

Canterbury may have been settled during the age of sail, but the land was broken in and converted into the wide pasturelands and fields of today by the power of steam.

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The great Victorian technical renaissance coincided with the settlement of the South Island in such a way that forestry and farming here embraced the power of steam like few other parts of the British Empire.

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The history of steam power in the region begins with logging, as crews of hardy bushmen cut and sawed the forests to build both ships and the fledgling city of Christchurch. The first steam sawmill was constructed at Geraldine in 1866 to great controversy, as it put many sawyers out of work. But it was very effective — today the area surrounding this plains town is all open fields! It was this wide, flat farmland which brought the real 'kings of steam' to Canterbury, for there were few places in the world better suited to farming with the help of traction engines than right here. Kiwi farmers invested heavily in the big steam-powered machines, which at the time represented a vast capital outlay. New Zealand's first traction engine landed on April 13th 1866, destined for the farms of Canterbury wheat growers Brown and Hamilton. It was shipped at enormous expense from England, but soon proved its worth powering a mobile threshing machine, a device which slashed the time and costs of processing grain.

Traction engines fulfilled many roles, from hauling heavy loads to operating as a power plant for early automated farm machinery. There were many ingenious uses devised for the vast power of their rolling flywheels, which could be connected via leather belts to any kind of powered machinery. Wool balers, sawmills, pumps, and even whole ranks of shearing clippers derived their power from the (at the time incredible) six to eight horsepower of the fire-breathing behemoths. Some were even fitted with drums around their boilers, and a system of ropes could be used to plough entire fields, sending the plough back and forth like the shuttle on a weaver's loom. The Timaru Herald, 21 April 1883 carried this advertisement: “Notice — TO CONTRACTORS, LARGE LANDED AND THRESHING MACHINE PROPRIETORS. The undersigned are now booking orders — J. Fowler and Co.'s, Steam Plough Works, Leeds, AGRICULTURAL TRACTION ENGINES for Next Season...” And those orders came. By the turn of the 20th Century traction engines were a common sight across Canterbury, and even

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February 2013

Oh, water and coal, let the black smoke roll Down to the Coalgate Station. For Truman Jones I'll rattle my bones, Half across creation. For Truman Jones is the man who owns All the big black tractions, His yard he fills with big red mills And other such contraptions. Joe Charles, The Coleridge Run

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HHH

All the fun and festivities of a classic country fair

McLeans Island

VINTAGE Country Fair Sat 23rd

traction engines in action at McLeans island

the advent of the diesel engine did little initially to slow demand. Unlike the new motor cars and trucks, Canterbury's fleet of traction engines were fueled by West Coast coal, not imported, expensive liquid fuel.

On a drunken bar bet, two veteran traction engine drivers challenged each other to what would these days be called a drag race, taking their huge steam-powered machines to the limit over that 60 kilometers of clay, rivers and bush. It is the only recorded impromptu traction engine race in history. The scene was immortalized by songwriter Joe Charles for posterity. Today, as Christchurch and Canterbury strive to keep their heritage alive in the aftermath of 2011's earthquake, machines

a rc

h 201

Sun 24th

At Steam Scene and Cutler Park, McLeans Island Road

The finest hour of Canterbury's traction engine fleet came with the shift from the old technologies of the Victorian age to those we rely on today. In 1911 work began on the Lake Coleridge hydroelectric power station, the first powerhouse for Christchurch. At this time the best way to haul men and materials the 60 kilometers from the Coalgate railhead to the works was by traction engine, and one of the biggest ever musterings of these machines was called. It was hard going, on clay tracks and unformed roads, fording streams where the engineers often had to submerge their machines to cross. They would build up steam, douse the fire, cross using winches on residual pressure alone, then re-ignite the boiler and carry on. Such hard conditions attracted hard men, and the story of the Lake Coleridge build is told in a folk ballad which recounts surely the most bizarre race in New Zealand's history — the Coleridge Run.

HHH

Vintage tractors like these heralded an agricultural revolution for Canterbury

such as these are being brought back from the scrap heap and into the sun. On March the 23rd and 24th the Canterbury Steam Preservation Society the Canterbury branch of the NZ Vintage Car Club, and the NZ Vintage Machinery Club will host the third bi-annual Vintage Country Fair, showcasing steam trains, traction engines, vintage cars and agricultural machinery from a bygone era. Visitors to Cutler Park will be treated to literally hundreds of restored vehicles and machines representing the agricultural heritage of Canterbury — a great way for history to come alive, and a treat for kids (of all ages) who love the power and nostalgia of steam.

Steam Trains Trains •• Traction Traction Engines Engines Steam Veteran & VintageinVehicles Military Vehicles Action Vintage Machinery Logging Display • Memorabilia Military Vehicles in Action Stationary Logging Display •Engines Memorabilia Threshing StationaryMachines Engines Threshing Machines Working Steam Museum Working Museum Hay BalingSteam Demonstration Hay Baling Demonstration Sheep Shearing Display Sheep Shearing Display Steam Sawmill Models Steam Sawmill Models Clydesdale Horses Clydesdale & & Miniature Miniature Horses

Daily Programme of Events including Grand Parade H 10AM TO 4.30PM H Free Car Parking

OPENS 9am

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USED TRACTORS

New Holland TM175 & Mailleux MX150 SL Loader (2003) 4WD, 174hp, 4300 hours, 22478, ..T....$85,000 John Deere 6230 ROPS & JD 653 S/L Loader (2009) 4WD, 85hp, 3060 hours, ROPS frame & canopy, 22287, .....................................K....$69,000 Case CXV 1145 & Pearson Loader (2009) 4WD, 7029 hours, CVT transmission, 22374, ..T....$59,000 John Deere 6520 Premium (2002) 4WD, 120hp, Approx. 5193 hours, 22201, .................O....$59,000 John Deere 6220 ROPS & JD 731 NSL Loader (2004) 4WD, 90hp, 4270 hours, 22377, ..........K....$57,000 John Deere 6620 Premium (2002) 4WD, 125hp, 5942 hours, 22512, ................................T.....$54,000 John Deere 6220SE & JD 651 SL Loader (2004) 4WD, 90hp, 5100 hours, 22500, ............K....$53,000 John Deere 6320 ROPS & JD 651 S/L Loader (2005) 100hp, 4WD, 4200 hours, 22419, ...........T....$50,000 John Deere 6210P & JD 640 Loader (2000) 4WD, 90hp, 4500 hours, Cab, 22363, ..............T....$49,000

USED MACHINERY

Simba Horsch Pronto Drill 22299, .......T...$81,000 Vicon Andex 843 Rake 22452, .............O..$30,000 Claas Disco 3100F/8550 22454, ..........O..$26,000 Samco Maize Planter 22552, ................O..$22,000 Vicon RV187 Baler 21945, ....................T...$18,000 Sam 4 Ton Spreader 22581, ...............T...$11,500 Lely Splendimo Mower, 22130, ...........G....$6,500 Kuhn GMD600 Mower, 22260, ............N....$6,500 Taege Bale Feeder 22441, ....................T.....$6,250

USED MACHINERY

Castle Garder Eurotwin 15/102 Ride on Mower, 18hp, Rear catcher, 22352, ....................T.....$2,000

John Deere 6930 & Stoll F51 Loader (2008) 4WD, 155hp, 2773 hours, PowerQuad trans , 22495, .O....$106,000

John Deere 6520SE & JD 731 NSL Loader (2005) 4WD, 115hp, 4025 hours, PowerQuad trans, 22418, ....G....$69,000

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Water

February 2013

Open channel to water management success The Boraman Consultants team offer top open channel expertise as part of the Hydrocom network. Some of the team at Boraman Consultants have been involved with measuring open channel for over 25 years, but in recent times the team at Boramans have been involved in

the development of a new generation of flow measurement devices. Boraman Consultants have been working with Rubicon water in Melbourne to develop a water meter for open

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channel races. Flow meters that are employed on pumps etc are required to operate full. The meter known as a ‘Flumemeter’, measures the height and the velocity of the water as it passes through, giving the ability to calculate the flow without being full. The device uses ‘Sonaray’ technology which is a type of ultrasonic, ‘time of flight’ velocity sensor. Usually flow measurements devices in open channels require a visit once every two month to physically measure the flow and check the operation of the water level recording device. Over the years this can be a costly exercise. The ’Flumemeter’ only requires one check per season — this minimises the on-going operational cost of the site. These type of devices are particularly popular in Central Otago, where intakes are remote

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and travel to the sites is time consuming and costly. The Kyeburn Irrigation group has collectively opted for these to minimise the site visits. Boraman Consultants are also the Rubicon representative for some of their other products: the Flume gate and the slipmeter. These are both devices that have the ability to measure the flow and control it. These types of gates have a set and forget ability, this means that the irrigator can order a flow, and regardless of whether the river is rising or falling, the gate will deliver the requested flow. For the irrigator this gives peace of mind, that consent conditions will not be breached. These devices have been very popular with irrigation schemes or irrigators that have their intakes some distance

Dave Boraman of Boraman Consultants

from their properties, as the flows can be set from any computer or mobile device. Basically all that is required is an internet connection to allow you

to operate the gates. All of the site information is transmitted back to the BCL telemetry website on an hourly basis to allow compliance checks to take place.

Water

February 2013

January was a month of record sunshine for Canterbury with northwesterly airflow prevailing in the first half of the month but anticyclones more dominant for the second half. Sunshine readings were the big news for the month, with totals of over 280 hours common across the region, being 25-35% above normal and for many sites the sunniest month on record. Temperatures were a little above normal for the month with departures generally around +0.5 deg, due largely to a run of hot northwesterly days early in the month. Later in the month a series of cool nights brought mean temperatures down with one night bringing light ground frosts. Many areas ended the month with the rather unusual pattern of day time maximum temperatures being significantly above the long term normal, and night time minimums significantly below.

Forecast — Canterbury Rainfall

Temperature

Sunshine

Airflow

A little wetter than normal

A little cooler than normal

A little cloudier than normal

Weak low pressure systems often over New Zealand

April

A little drier than normal

A little wamer than normal

Sunnier than normal

More Anticyclones

May

Near normal

A little cloudier than normal

Low pressure systems returning

June

Near normal

Warmer than normal

Sunnier than normal

More northerly airflow

March

There were only a few days of rain during January, but falls on those days were quite heavy, so most of the region ended up with near normal rainfall, apart from North Canterbury which was wetter, with totals 50-80% more than usual. In the tropical Pacific conditions remain mixed and rather confused. There is no clear trend towards either El Nino or La Nina, and although the Southern Oscillation Index has trended a little towards El Nino conditions, no other indicators show this trend. There looks to be good reasons to expect on-going neutral conditions in the tropical Pacific for at least the next few months. Sea surface temperatures off the Canterbury coast remain a little warmer than usual for the time of year. Computer models show no clear trend expected towards either El Nino or La Nina in the next six months, although trends may start to emerge in May and June, the time when ENSO events usually begin to develop. With no clear El Nino signal to affect the climate over the next few months, our broad expectation for the autumn and

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early winter season is for near normal conditions overall. Westerly airflow generally is expected to be weaker than usual over the South Island, and this can sometimes lead to brief extremes, like two to three week dry periods, or brief cold spells with potentially heavy rain. Our latest seasonal forecast calls for continued dry but not northwesterly conditions through the end of February. There are indications March may see weak low pressure systems affecting New Zealand and little in the way of westerly airflow, which could lead to a month which is a little cooler and cloudier than usual in Canterbury, and with at least normal rainfall. April may see a trend to more anticyclones than usual over New Zealand, and may be similar to the patterns currently occurring in February. If this is so, then the month may be a little drier, sunnier and milder than usual. ay could see a return to more low pressure systems with near normal rainfall and temperatures, while June is currently showing a trend towards more northerly airflow, but forecast confidence is low.

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Water

February 2013

Irrigation Issues Dr Tony Daveron

Just an interlude? It was not wishful thinking as I wrote last issue. Summer did return and with some vengeance — well for some and not for others. Do we want this golden weather to continue? The end of the second week of January the weather had turned cool for a few days and the week brought up to 60mm of rainfall in parts of North Canterbury. While the rainfall was welcome for those who had the pressure taken off what had become very demanding irrigation, it did interrupt harvest for a bit. That week was just an interlude and since then the weather has been hot, dry, and sunny with a little NW thrown in — just to put a little pressure on pastoral irrigation and irrigation systems. The soil temperature record in Figure 1 shows clearly the cool and wetter week in mid-north Canterbury Figure 1. Soil temperature record under pasture at Aylesbury

Figure 1

The cool wet weather in the week 14-18 January (▬ ▬ circling) had a cooling effect on the soil temperature, dropping from minimums above 16°C to as low as 13°C on the 18th. The maximum daytime temperature also dropped by 2-3°C. Not that these temperatures were crop limiting, rather demonstrating how quickly soil temperature can change with a cold wet rainfall. Within a week the soil temperatures had turned on their head with maximums up to 23°C and minimums around 19°C (▬ ▬ circling). These high maximum and minimum temperatures had a marked effect on the crop water use in the latter part of January and early February. The crops (whatever they were) just wanted to keep growing and transpiring day and night to stay cool — remember how uncomfortable it was to sleep some nights! The consequence was some pretty high crop water use during this time — eg: • Pasture (>200kg dry matter cover) 40-45mm/week or 5-7mm/day (average)

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Figure 2

• Green beans 35-40mm/week or 5-6mm/day It makes it pretty difficult to keep up with irrigation during these periods, especially pastoral irrigation. When systems have a design of 5-5.5mm/day you could be up to 2-2.5mm/day behind the 'eight-ball' every day (on average). Don’t be alarmed by these figures — this is not unusual. We have previously measured water use as high as this, and on one occasion higher: • 26mm in a three day period in green peas and barley. The high crop water use was a combination of high daytime temperatures (high water use) and the plant continuing to transpire at night. I have used Figure 2 to demonstrate this. Figure 2. Soil moisture 0-300mm under pasture at Aylesbury The soil moisture used in Figure 2 is logged every 15 minutes and has been field calibrated to give true volumetric soil moisture. Typically the trace of soil moisture shows a 'steep' decline during the day and a 'flattening' at night; pretty logical because the plant needs to transpire heaps during the hot daytime temperatures to keep the leaf cool, and as the temperatures drop at night it needs to transpire less. The trace highlighted (▌and 2) illustrates the steepflat-steep-flat or day-nightday-night sequence. In the last week these sequences are clear in the soil moisture plot. However, in the (▌and 1) this sequence is much less obvious. The soil moisture declines with only a small 'bump' at night. That is the plant continues to abstract water and transpire so it can keep the leaf surface cool. If you cut and paste the two diagrams you will notice that ▌1 is associated with (▬ ▬ circled) type conditions and ▌2 with (▬ ▬ circled) type temperature conditions. While the daytime decreases are similar in 1 and 2, the night time are not, being much greater in 1 than 2. As the night time temperatures decline from now on into the late summer and autumn, so the crop water use will be driven by what is required to be transpired in the daylight hours (demand will decline).

ALWAYS KEEP EQUIPMENT AT LEAST FOUR METRES FROM POWER LINES

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03 347 2314

February 2013

Experience and technology make the grade Darren Green may have been at the helm of Green Fertilizer spreading for the past eleven years, but his ties to rural life go far deeper. As a lifelong contractor from a family who have served the agricultural sector for decades, he’s proud to number amongst his current customers many farmers who have come back season after season.

spreader. Fitted with a versatile microbin to augment its main bin, this unit can handle slug bait and seed mixes at small rates per hectare, and can also work in tandem with the main bin to mix fertiliser in with seed. With a Topcon X20 computer system in the cab farmers can access proof of placement information while they save both time and money. Advanced tech also gives this machine unique boundary spreading abilities. Airbags raise the bin up for higher crop application, while a set of big 450mm flotation tyres help keep wheel marks to a minimum over even damp terrain.

Darren maintains an entire fleet of versatile vehicles to tackle most any task a farmer could request, from variable spreading to bulk haulage and beyond. His machinery is all independently tested for accuracy by a qualified assessor, and equally importantly his drivers boast more than three decades of solid experience between them. From compact spreading trucks all the way up to his Isuzu bulk truck and tubulator, Darren knows that he, his staff and his tools all check out at the highest level, guaranteeing a job well done.

You can’t afford to be off, so we’re alwaYs on

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the fleet of Green Fertilizer spreader trucks

Experience is the key to the success of Green Fertilizer spreading — knowing what farmers want and need across all kinds of ag-business operations, from traditional cropping through to the burgeoning dairy market. Darren is also keenly aware that to lead in the field you have to adopt and adapt new technologies, so his current fleet reflects a thoroughly 21st-century approach. Take for example his latest unit — a cut above the average computerised

Quality that has stood Quality the testthat of time. has stood the test of time. TPS-009-NZ_OmniSTAR_NorthSouth_AD_130.5x90mm_0213.indd 1

2/5/2013 4:10:03 PM

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February 2013

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Communications key to farm safety efforts Imagine that the worst has happened. Pinned under a quad bike which has rolled, injured and outside of cellular coverage, and with no way to summon aid — what would you do? For many farmers this has been the grim reality, as recent headlines can attest. Reliable communications are not just the pulse of the modern farm, they are also vital for safety. In areas where mobile phone technology is unreliable or coverage patchy, a tried and tested solution exists to link farm workers and managers, family and contractors. That technology is RT or radio telephone — trusted by law enforcement and truck drivers for many years, to name but two examples. RT technology is robust, simple to use and cost effective

to implement. More importantly, accidents on back-country farms, or any area out of the range of cellphone towers, can be quickly reported with a single RT call. With farms under health and safety scrutiny, farmers are under pressure to ensure the safety of their staff at all times.

In Canterbury, the trusted name in RT communications is T L Parker — for over 40 years a market leader in the field. With an on the road team to tailor solutions to their clients — especially in the rural industry — they enjoy a reputation for finding smart solutions to communications problems.

As well as providing a robust ‘safety net’ of communications, RT systems also allow easier management of farm resources and enable farm managers to direct their staff easily over long distances, no matter what the weather.

Visit them at the forthcoming Field Days, where you’ll find T L Parker in the CRT tent, along with a display of potentially life saving modern R T products. Don’t forget to ask about their great Field Days’ specials and giveaways!

SAVE ON ESSENTIAL COMMUNICATION TOOLS FOR WHEN YOU’RE OUT IN THE FIELD. FIELDAYS SPECIAL. Save $50 on the Motorola CB Pro Plus – normally priced at $395.

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February 2013

Six decades of Field Days

The latest in technology, engineering and science are major components among a multitude of features in this year’s 61st South Island Agricultural Field Days at Lincoln University Farm. Just 20 kms from Christchurch, it is the ideal location for town and country to meet, and display the innovations that, yearly it seems, carry the agricultural and pastoral industries in New Zealand on to higher levels, indeed as a leader on the world stage. The Field Days theme this year is Ag-Technology, and this is an essential facet of an industry that now sustains a world population of over a staggering six and a half billion people. On site this year, exhibitors will display the latest technology, equipment, machinery and ideas so Agtechnology can continue to sustain the world’s growing population while working

mowers, seed drills and other machines being put through their paces on the 35 hectare site each day. It’s expected that in the region of 20,000 and 25,000 visitors will pass through the gates over the course of three days from March 20 to 22. The SIAFD is a nonprofit Incorporated society, run by volunteers except the secretary, who are all farmers or work in the agricultural field and any money made is reinvested back into the local community through scholarships and grants.

Machinery Demonstration

efficiently with the latest farming advances. Farmers and others in the rural sector have a golden the opportunity to see the latest in agricultural machinery and services that are available on the market, particularly

home grown products, and speak with the people behind these developments. It is the only agricultural show in New Zealand to feature side-by-side demonstrations, with 80 — 100 tractors, headers,

will be presented for what is judged to be the most outstanding product of the year in each of the following classes — Kiwi-made farm equipment, imported farm equipment and farm aids/ tools and farm inventions. A prize of $250 for the best-run demonstration and commentary will be awarded with safety and timing

The Agri-Innovation Awards are held each year and are awards of merit for machines, implements or attachments or tools for use in agriculture or other forms of primary production. The winners gain considerable prestige and publicity and they may use the award in their marketing. A prize

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taken into account for the best performance. Over the course of the Field Days there will be demonstrations of a wide range of farm machinery and equipment including machines actively involved in ploughing, baling, seed drilling and everything in-between.

Mingling at Field Days

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Lincoln Field Days

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February 2013

SOUTH ISLAND AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS

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Products, well known for their reliable poly pipe fittings, threaded pipe fittings and valves have designed an innovative range of high performance trough valves that are proving to be very successful with farmers nationwide,” he says.

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All email enquiries...

Keith Baker - Sales Coordinator P 03 318 6934 | M 021 143 3469

riverdownsteel@gmail.com www.riverdownsteel.com

Contact

Hansen’s range of trough Valves on display at Fieldays 2012

branded trough valves. Aside from the obvious benefits of high volume flows, quality materials and packaged with multiple connections for every install, there are a few key ingredients that set them apart from the rest. “The patented Slipper Fit Piston design in the Superflo trough valve eliminates stuck valves syndrome. No more overflowing or empty troughs, while the soft close of the Maxflo Trough/Tank valve eliminates water hammer which can put serious strain on your system. “Come along and see our Superflo and

Maxflo high performance trough valves being put to the test on our Trough Valve display at CRT Lane, South Island Agricultural Field Days (SIAFD) 20-22 March. Speak to our on-site specialists about your farm requirements or see what new and exciting products the Hansen factory has been working on or simply just stop in for a chat and grab some of our 'Show Specials'. Hansen — providing customers with Best Installed Value since 1958. www.hansenproducts.co.nz

February 2013

Providing Water System Solutions for over 50 years HEAVY DUTY TANK LEVEL INDICATOR

Effective pod based Irrigation & Effluent systems

Check Tank Levels at a glance

Create Reliable Tank Connections

Dependable Threaded Connections

Valve Closes at Maximum level

Quick Connect/ Disconnect for Servicing

Protect Your Pump Prevent System Back Flow

Valve Opens at Minimum level

Rapid Refill 180 lpm Trough Valve

Tap into existing pipe lines easily

Massive Refill 570 lpm Trough/Tank Valve

The foremost for Poly Pipe Connections

HAD0008 1302

Isolate & Control System Flow

Visit us at South Island Fieldays and talk to our on-site specialists

CRT Lane

Proudly Kiwi Owned and Operated Since 1958

February 2013

Lincoln Field Days Visit us on sites

906 & 907

Sharing with you our obsession for quality

NEW

Heavy Duty Model

812 TRAILING MAXITILL

Seedbed preparation with stubble incorporation

USE RATA INDUSTRIES AS YOUR ONE-STOP-SHOP FOR ATTACHMENTS, CULTIVATION EQUIPMENT, HAY RAKES AND ATV SPREADERS PADDON SIDE & VEE RAKES

NZ Made for NZ conditions, many sizes & options available.

WILLET TANDEM & OFFSET DISCS

Over 80 years of development, the leading disc on the market.

SITREX TEDDERS, RAKES & MOWERS Producing simple, tough precision built machines that are designed with high usage in mind.

WILLET RIDGER DRILLS

Ideal for fodder beet, accurate seed spacing through electronic placement.

W: www.rataindustries.co.nz

February 2013

SOUTH ISLAND AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS

Growing enthusiasm for the great outdoors Southern Woods is far from your average plant nursery. In fact, you’ll not find the usual crop of colourful potted flowers and healthy veg here at all. Instead you’ll find a team dedicated to the other end of the plant spectrum — the tall timber and lush foliage of full-sized trees. Many people assume that trees ‘have always been there’ — they are often landmarks in an otherwise very changeable world. But when it comes to shelter belts, orchards, shade and simple aesthetic beauty, sometimes it’s very much a case of ‘the right tree in the right place for the job’.

Jo Burson, has even been known to book hiking holidays for the Southern Woods team as a group. You could say that travelling — and soaking up the local horticultural lore — is a common thread for most of the Southern Woods management team. A quick browse of their biographies reveals trips to the Chelsea flower and garden show, Sri Lanka, and of course the wild hinterland

of New Zealand. It all comes back to a love of plants and gardening, though; and a desire to help others realise the beauty inherent in the natural world. Southern Woods Plant Nursery are transforming open spaces one tree at a time, and they’re going to be bringing all their knowledge and enthusiasm to Field Days for you to share.

48 Newnham Street, Rangiora 7400, New Zealand Phone 03 313 8606 Fax 03 313 5497 Email enquiries@readindustrial.co.nz Website www.readindustrial.co.nz

RELIABLE READ MILKING SYSTEMS

That’s where Southern the tall timber and lush foliage of full-sized native trees Woods Plant Nursery comes Murray himself has been part of the in, with over five hundred company he has now owned for twelve species of tree in their palette. Managing years, and his ‘contagious’ enthusiasm director Murray Mannall, General for the wonders of horticulture has been a Manager Nalin Gooneratne and a team driving force in growing Southern Woods. of propagation specialists, sales staff and Both he and his General Manager Nalin, crop care professionals pride themselves are keen trampers who enjoy getting out on their knowledge of this vast segment of amongst ‘wild specimens’ of the native trees the plant kingdom, and they love sharing their expertise with customers. they have in stock. Production Manager

• • • •

Both herringbone and rotary • Optional extras available Trouble free Read slide pulsator • Read automatic cup removers Simple and effective circuit wash system • Family owned and operated Manufacturing installation, 24hr servicing/helpline

Building milking systems from single-cow bucket plants up to 100-bail milking machines. DESIGNED FOR EACH INDIVIDUAL CUSTOMER

Contour Drill Air Seeder with C - D Series

2012

Best Seller!

Our C-D Series is a specialist direct drill ideal for working on tough undulating country. Your choice of working widths from 3m to 6m, 5” or 6” row spacings and multiple bin options! Physical: 32 Robinson Street, Ashburton Postal: PO Box 71, Ashburton 7740 Ph: 03 308 4094 Email: craig@allencustomdrills.co.nz Fax: 03 308 4093 Web: www.allencustomdrills.co.nz CRAIG ALLEN: 021 861 440

February 2013

DAIRY SHEDS • WINTERING SHEDS • WOOLSHEDS • COVERED YARDS • CALF SHEDS • IMPLEMENT SHEDS • SUPER BINS

When it comes to quality constructed, custom designed rural buildings, Calder Stewart Construction has a proven track record - with over 5000 completed buildings that can be found throughout the South Island. Farmers have come to know Calder Stewart as a specialist in delivering durable & practical buildings that can perform reliably year-in/year-out. Whether it’s a state-of-the-art rotary dairy shed or large scale build. Call Donald Sutton at 03 307 6130 to discuss your next project.

See us at the South Island Agricultural Field Days

quality constructed. custom designed.

FARM BUILDINGS BROCHURE

wintering shed, let the experts at Calder Stewart translate your needs into a finished

free download at:

www.calderstewart.co.nz

50 YEAR STRUCTURAL WARRANTY* *As per New Zealand Building Code Acceptable Solution B2/AS1

NOW AVAILABLE FROM ALL LEADING RURAL MERCHANTS SIZES : 32mm, 40mm and 50mm • Highest flow rate of ANY reservoir valve available! • Eliminates pump cycling so increasing the life of your pump and saving electricity • Soft closing mechanism to eliminate water hammer • Variable adjustment between minimum and maximum water levels • 15 - 1,200 kPa pressure range APPLICATIONS Reservoir valve for pump fed storage tanks

Rain harvesting back up water supply control valve Rainwater Inlet

Air Gap

Visible Overflow Discharge

Pumped Supply

AIR GAP

200mm Min

Visible Ove Overflow Discharge

Mains Water Supply Inlet

Maximum Level Overflow Ove

Valve Closed

Overflow

Minimum Level

Keep a 300mm head on the pump outlet at all times Outlet

WORKING DISPLAY SIAFD - Stand 566, 567

Outlet supplying pressure pump

Valve Open

BigBoy keeps tank topped up between these levels (100mm)

DISTRIBUTED BY:

LEADING WITH KNOWLEDGE

February 2013

SOUTH ISLAND AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS

Giving something back to the earth Imagine a road stretching from here to the Gold Coast in Australia. That’s a long way — but now imagine that road is paved not in asphalt, but in organic waste. That’s the amount of greenwaste which Living Earth has have kept out of landfills — over a staggering one million tons of organic matter which has instead gone on to feed the soil and nurture fresh veges, flowers and plants. Back in 1994 a plan was hatched to reduce waste and produce topquality compost. At the time the world was a little less of a ‘green’ place, but gardeners and farmers have always known what’s best for their crops, and local councils (both in Auckland and in Christchurch) soon cottoned on to the fact that diverting waste from landfills is the way forward for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is caring for our environment. Fast forward to the present day, and Living Earth is a big name in compost-based plant nutrient products, delivering

products fuelling the growth of community gardens. A state-of-the art facility in Bromley, Christchurch transforms the city’s green waste into Compost via a process which takes only 7 – 10 days in tunnels followed by 6-8 weeks of curing.

50,000 tons or more of food waste goes into the Bromley plant’s composting tunnels, and what comes out is destined for big-name gardening stores, and ultimately the gardens of keen horticulturalists. At

this

year’s

Field

Days Living Earth will be showcasing their full range of organic compost products — redefining ‘the good earth’ and helping keep landfill space to a minimum. Most importantly, they’re certain that your plants will love the finished product!

Compost piles at Living earth, ready for distribution

thousands of tonnes of the good ‘brown stuff’ each year to eager gardeners and farmers. They’ve been key players in some major initiatives heralding a swing to the sustainable side of life. For example, Living Earth

are right behind the Food to Table project, putting healthy vege gardens in schools and fostering a new crop of budding young vege growers. They also support the Gardens for Health initiative, with their

Affordable Rural Broadband

0800 726 724

www.scorch.co.nz

COMPOST

www.rural.livingearth.co.nz

08 0 0 C O M P O S T Farming times are a-changin’. New Zealand farmers are moving toward practising a more natural way to deliver nutrients to the land. Applying Living Earth organic-certified Compost to the soil stimulates and improves soil health. Visit our Living Earth stand at SIAFD — site number 479 for some information on how Christchurch’s Compost can benefit your farming business.

For rural sales enquiries in the Canterbury Region: Trevor Chatterton, phone 03 373 8378, mobile 021 657 992 Email: tchatterton@livingearth.co.nz

February 2013

SOUTH ISLAND AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS

Consistency and reliability proves key Owner of Delos Dairies, Mitch Russell has been impressed with his Teatwand automatic teat-sprayer on his 80 bale rotary.

“We milk 1800 cows and the consistency and reliability of the Teatwand has helped us keep our cell counts and mastitis down. Its more

Farm Bridges - Precast and Prestressed Concrete

At Stahlton we pride ourselves on delivering cost effective and sustainable solutions for the rural sector. Specialising in precast farm bridges, Stahlton will provide you with a

For further information contact us on: 03 344 3014

fit-for-purpose solution designed and installed with your environment in mind.

We have had our Teatwand for four years now, the teat condition is great, and with ACRs now installed it means one less person in the shed. We updated the original Teatwand to the new one with speed control which has been great as it adjusts the spray action with changes in the speed of the platform. This has been a big advantage especially in our 80 bale rotary as there can be quite a difference in speeds between milkings and at different times of the year. We are in the process of building two new rotaries and I have already ordered Teatwands for them.”

www.stahlton.co.nz

400

reliable than having someone do it and it has been economical on teat spray too.

Introducing the Teatwand 400

teatwand in action

Importer and distributor of Zimmatic Pivots and Laterals. Full variety of options offered.

Superior product design feature and strength. Computer Irrigation Design. Full Installation complete with back-up service and parts.

The closest possible thing to a manual teat sprayer without the labour unit.

400

The Teatwand 400 has 400mm reach on a flexible arm (100mm further than the original Teatwand) allowing the nozzle to position closer to the front teats and in so gaining ideal spray coverage on all four teats.

New Zealand’s Leading Boom Irrigator. BRIGGS ROTO RAINER and Linear. Eight models.

The Teatwand 400 is placed at the exit bridge and uses it’s own movement along with the movement of the platform to produce an ideal spray pattern. SPREADEAGLE LEG SPREADER

Feature

Benefit

Moves under the udder

Consistent coverage of all four teats

Self cleaning nozzle

No blockage worries

Sprays from close to the udder

Very economical spray

One spray nozzle and solenoid

Few operating parts

Stationed on platform at exit bridge

Better coverage because cow is stationary

FLEXIBLE SPRAY ARM

Ph 03 307 9049 Fax 03 307 9047 Email rainer@ashburton.co.nz 10 Robinson St, Ashburton www.rainer.co.nz

For further information call 0800 888 212 or visit www.onfarmsolutions.com to check out our SpreadEagle leg spreader. OnFarm_Solutions_46978.indd 1

Suppliers of • Zimmatic Parts • Valley Parts • PVC Pipe • Angus Layflat Hose • Stock Water Systems • Effluent Irrigators & Systems • Pumps • Hard Hose Irrigators • K Line Systems

15/09/11 8:12 AM

February 2013

SOUTH ISLAND AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS sheds ‘n shelters

New technology to fuel farming and industry Fuel Storage Systems Ltd of Ashburton manufacture the Sebco range of diesel, waste oil and AdBlue storage tanks, and they have just announced the launch of a new model — the Sebco 1300 litre Diesel Station. The new model follows an influx of enquiries from farmers and industrial companies who did not have the need to store large volumes of diesel, but still wanted a compliant, safe and secure tank with all the advantages of the other Sebco diesel stations. “What we discovered was that operators with a lower diesel use have also upgraded to vehicles with a common rail engine, such as the farm ute or family SUV. These require extremely clean fuel. The design of our system virtually eliminates condensation, meaning that the inner vessel cannot rot or rust — hence the fuel dispensed from the Sebco 1300 is as clean as it can be,” says Ed Harrison,

It‘s also equipped with four metres of delivery hose with an auto shutoff nozzle so there is no fear of spilling while you fill. The 1300 also comes standard with a fivemicron water separating filter for extra peace of mind. You can actually view inside the captor to see any impurities and stop them before they reach your machinery!

WE CAN DESIGN ANY SIZE TO FIT YOUR REQUIREMENTS See us at South Island Agricultural Field Days SITE 727

CAlF SHElTER

Sebco is now into its seventh year of production and has delivered hundreds of diesel stations to properties in New Zealand and Australia. Sebco is very committed to providing smart storage options for farmers’ diesel requirements, and continues to develop award winning tanks for the future.

Principal: Elspeth Buchanan B.Met. (Hons), C.Eng, MIMMM, FNZIPA Registered Patent Attorney, N.Z. & Australia

Call us on 03 366 2761 www.plberry.co.nz E: office@plberry.co.nz 15b Byron Street, Sydenham P.O. Box 1250 Christchurch

Clean | Safe | Secure | Diesel Tanks

Announcing the newest addition to the Sebco range . . . Sebco 1300ltr Diesel Station

Fully Compliant

Easy and safe to fill and dispense

Minimise fuel theft Bunded

Also manufacturers of Waste Oil Recovery Containers, SCR Stations for Adblue and Transportable Tanks. Visit our website for a full list of products & features.

Smart Fuel Storage

0800 473 226 | www.sebco.co.nz Proudly made in Ashburton, New Zealand

BARN 3 Bay Dimensions: 13.5 Wide x 6.0 Deep x 3.6 High

✔ Colorsteel ✔ Rugged construction ✔ Made to order

sheds ‘n shelters

5a Cone Street, Rangiora Freephone: 0800 426 639 Phone: (03) 313 4862, Fax: (03) 313 4863 email: newbletimber@xtra.co.nz

See us at site C57

MF5465 FANTASTIC RUNOUT DEAL! LE MP

UR T C I

RUNOUT PRICING FROM Optimum clean fuel

Dimensions: 5.0 Wide x 11.6 Deep x 2.8 High

✔ Kitset ✔ Completely built ✔ Built on skids ✔ H4 Radiata Pine ✔ Zinc cladding

• N.Z. & Overseas Patents • Registered Designs • Searches & Licensing • Copyright • Trade Marks

The Sebco 1300 Diesel Station is fitted with the same quality components as the Sebco 2300 and 4800, such as a choice between the Piusi Cube 56 (240 or 12 volt systems) offering flow of up to 56 litres per minute.

MUSTERER’S / DEERSTAlKER’S HUT

Built to your specific requirements

P.L. Berry & AssociAtes PAtent Attorneys

Managing Director of Sebco.

Dimensions: 3.0 Wide x 4.8 Deep x 2.4 High

95,000

+ GST

9% E 9 . 4 ANC FIN

MF5465 4WD

• Legendary performance, economy and reliability • 130hp - max 140hp at just 2000 rpm • Dyna-4 semi powershift transmission • Exclusive left hand power controller for unmatched efficiency • High perfomance 100 l/min hydraulic flow • Hard working 4 speed PTO 36 Hickory Place, Hornby, Ph 03 344 5645 9a McGregor Lane, Ashburton, Ph 03 307 6031 Terry Gordon (027) 260 7820 Nick Wilson (027) 498 7044 Maurice Jordan (027) 260 7821 *4.99% finance available to approved AGCO Finance customers only. While stocks last.

www.masseyferguson.co.nz Massey Ferguson is a worldwide brand of AGCO Corporation

www.jj.co.nz

February 2013

SOUTH ISLAND AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS Come and see us at site 468

Fertigation Systems Ltd is a friendly company based at Lincoln, Canterbury.

proven to work in all irrigation systems and are good value for money.

We provide farmers and growers with fertigation pump solutions for all irrigation systems — from drip tapes, K Line through to Pivots. We use GRUNDFOS PUMPS for their reliability and simplicity.

So whether you have a small orchard or a large dairy farm, come and see us and enjoy a prawn or steak on the barbecue.

We can also supply fertilisers to suit your nutrient requirements. These are

Good Growing Fertigation Systems Ltd Graeme Pile Managing Director

Back ache and lasting spinal damage Relief is at hand reports Sue from The Better Back Company. “Farmers are busy people and they’re not coming to town for treatments and medical visits. Giving them something that provides relief from back ache and keeps them safer while on the job, is like having decent work boots. Spinal deformation can be occurring when you feel only minor soreness and irritation at first, then over time back pain grows, especially in the lower back. Days off work cost. Investing in yourself and your workers pays.” NZ leads the world in farm use of the LUMBARJACK belts supplied by The Better Back Company. They help prevent and manage back ache common in this manual labour industry with milking, shearing, calving, fencing, cropping, drenching, driving vehicles — tractors, heavy machinery, quads, your car or ute and so on. Lifting, carrying, leaning — all become easier with the support this belt gives. Or, if the pain from strain develops, a Nada Chair BACK-UP can effortlessly train correct posture; often giving instant relief from the niggles of an old injury, disc issues and medical conditions. Here’s what Mike, one Southern farmer said: I purchased a LUMBARJACK support belt (excellent for drenching sheep, marking

shearing with Better Back

calves, lifting heavy items and general farm work I might add) and a Back-Up for the dreaded office work. Before, I had massage to free up tight muscles and get temporary relief from ongoing pain. Using these products my pain levels are manageable, I have increased fitness because of less pain, and life is far more enjoyable. I let my Father (broken retired farmer) try out the BACK-UP and he thought it was great.

Take The Back Pain Out Of Farming

phone: (03) 325 3415 www.fertigation.co.nz

COME AND SEE US AT THE

SOUTH ISLAND AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS

SITE 468 0800 337 840 PHONE

• Easy • Quick • Effective • Affordable • Essential Ideal for Farm, Home, Office, all Driving, Sport and Leisure

www.betterback.co.nz

DEALERS FOR

Valtra, TYM, Landini and McCormick.

USED & IMPORTED late model, low houred combines and tractors.

SEE US AT THE FIELD DAYS

SITE 358

www.mtctractors.co.nz

Corner Edmonton & Halswell Junction Roads Hornby, PO Box 16-605 FREE PHONE 0800 451 451

February 2013

SOUTH ISLAND AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS

Looking after the environment Timbercore announces new product range of Clear Span buildings to be released at the South Island Field Days

The Timbercore construction methods allow builders to erect a structure themselves without having to bring in additional construction sub-contractors. This saves significant time on site because all materials have been pre-cut and prefabricated off site and delivered ready to be erected.

In response to the resurgence in the use of sustainable materials and to support NZ grown timber in construction, Timbercore has designed a range of buildings based on the use of engineered timbers that span from 9 to 90 plus metres.

See Timbercore at the South Island Field Days on sites 827 and 828 for Field Day Specials. Contact: Grant McKenzie

Timbercore buildings are Clear Span and the standard range includes sheds, warehouses, hangars, commercial and residential buildings. “Timber is farmed in New Zealand. Timber is produced from the land the same as sheep, beef, dairy, deer, grapes and grain. These products are the backbone of our economy. Our farming community is at the forefront of technology and innovation in all aspects of agriculture and now we are applying the latest engineering and technology to Timbercore Buildings, built from home grown timber” says Kevin Barron, owner of Timbercore Timbercore has been developing engineered timber structural buildings for the last five years. We now have the experience and products to launch to the market for a wide variety of uses. At the South Island Agricultural Field Days you will be able to see an example of a 24m portal and the benefits associated with using timber. Timbercore is committed to producing high quality, timber framed buildings, primarily through the use of engineered glue laminated timber (Glulam) and laminated veneer lumber (LVL) technology using locally harvested pinus radiata. “Of the twenty plus Timbercore buildings constructed in Canterbury before September 2010, none sustained earthquake damage,” says Kevin proudly. “They performed a great deal better than steel and concrete in buildings from Darfield to Brooklands, and from Kaiapoi to the Horotane Valley.” “One of the benefits of using timber is the smaller foundations required,” explains Kevin. “If you want to take cost out of a

General Manager, Timbercore grant@timbercore.co.nz 03 347 7079

BASED CLEANER

Built in 2009, the Bangor by timbercore

building, one way to do this is to reduce the mass. Timber is approximately four times lighter than steel or concrete for the same strength, and hence the foundation requirements reduce. “As more and more engineered timber buildings go up, more and more people will see the benefits of using it. Construction methods and engineering techniques will become more mainstream, and timber will gather a groundswell of support not because steel and concrete are bad — it’s just that people haven’t realised what can be built in timber. As time goes on I believe the ratio of timber buildings to steel and concrete will increase, because concerned New Zealanders will see the benefits”. Walking into a Timbercore building you immediately sense that something is different. They are quieter, warmer, and pleasing to look at. No ledges, cavities, exposed knee and apex bracing gives a cleaner less cluttered look than other systems. The Europeans swear by the timber for housing the animals in winter, and say the additional warmth is definitely a benefit to animal welfare and reduced food consumption. “Timber is the sustainable building solution of the future.”

New Zealand’s most Versatile Cleaner One product is all you need for ALL your cleaning chores around the house and farm. We have a NEW product. Citrus Hand Job. No solvents, so not harsh on your skin yet will REMOVE all grease, grime, dirt, printing ink with ease!

FREEPHONE TO ORDER:

0800 4 CITRUS (0800 424 878) www.citrusbasedcleaner.co.nz

ual

to 750XPW 4X4 Au KingQuad LT-A T FITTED $15,213 EX GS

4 400/LT-A400 2X KingQuad LT-F $8,696 EX GST

400F 4X4 Man KingQuad LT-F T GS $10,870 EX

WITH WARN WINCH

DR200SE Trojan $5,039 EX GST

0S 3O0 LLAR D

g TF125 Mudbu T GS EX 87 ,3 $3

0S 2O0 LLAR D

Avon City Suzuki Epsom Road, Sockburn, Christchurch • 03 341 3490 • Give Geoff a call on 0274 372 790

www.avoncitysuzuki.co.nz

s Cashback Suzuki’s famou re back and we’ promotion is give you some standing by to t on these grea hard cash back on kes! So come Suzuki farm bi ck ba a d an Suzuki in, get a new cash! pocket full of March 2013 31 February until of er runs from 1 are exclusive Promotional oﬀ ertised prices stocks last. Adv . GST while current es t includ oun am k bac GST. Cash

KI.CO.NZ | WWW.SUZU 0800 SUZUKI

February 2013

SIAFD AT LINCOLN 20th - 22nd MARCH |

e: jason@cthl.co.nz p: 03 3477465 f: 03 3477032 a: 1304 Main South Road, Weedons www.cthl.co.nz

- Boundaryline Fencing - Landscaping Timber - Roundwood - Post and Rail Fencing

- Residential Fencing - Electric Fencing - Decking - Retaining Wall Timber

very

- Clear Span Sheds - Barnstyle Homes - Chalet Homes - Clear Span to Your Design

Impressed

See our 24 metre Clear Span Timber Portal Field Days Sites 827 - 828

Find us on

February 2013

FIELD DAYS SPECIALS | SITES 827-828 *

Terms and Conditions Apply. p: 03 347 7031 e: graham@shedsnz.co.nz a: 1304 Main South Rd, Weedons www.shedsnz.co.nz

p: 03 347 7079 e: jain@timbercore.co.nz a: 1304 Main South Rd, Weedons www.timbercore.co.nz

- Large Warehouses - Hangars - Arenas n - Wintering Sheds

- Farm Sheds - Stables - Habitable Buildings - Pump / Utility Sheds

- Lifestyle Sheds - Animal Shelters - Play Houses - Deluxe Garden Sheds

To receive a Strainrite Wire Twister FREE, complete this form and bring to sites 827 - 828 at SIAFD. Name:_________________ Phone:_____________________ Address:_______________________ Area Code:___________ Email:_____________________________________________ Property Style (please circle):

Farm

Lifestyle

Residential

The above information may be used for marketing, research or promotion purposes.

February 2013

SOUTH ISLAND AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS

Versatility the key for dairying success DAIRY SHED POWER PROTECTION DUNLITE PTO TRACTOR VALUE PACKAGE

 50–100kVA,  4 pole, 1500rpm  AVR auto voltage regulator  Uses include a portable power plant for irrigation, pumps, cool rooms etc,

PTO Generator + 3 Point Linkage Frame

PTO Generator + 3 Point Linkage Frame + 3 Phase Plugs

From $6,949 + GST Why Buy from OMC Power Equipment? • Inlet connections and cable lengths supplied to match shed • All units shipped ready to connect for instant backup • Items shipped freight free NZ wide • Ask us about leasing - 90% tax deductible - cash flow friendly

(non catching)

WALKER MODEL MC

 20HP, V-Twin Engine  Tilt up floating deck for easy

access and storage  Zero turn - excellent maneuverability

ASK FOR A FREE DEMONSTRATION ON YOUR PROPERTY!

WALKER MODEL MB

 18 HP – V-Twin Engine  Tilt up, fully fabricated,

Ian Ward is proud to say that he’s been farming the same fertile tract of Canterbury land for his entire life, taking over from his parents before him. Now 57 years of age, he’s seen the changeover from sheep and cropping to dairy through, and now presides over the biggest change in over 30 years — the expansion of his farm from a 300 cow herd to 430 cattle. Recent changes to the rules regarding the storage and use of effluent have seen another addition to the farm as well — a 6000 litre Joskin slurry tanker purchased from Murray Implements. “We didn’t mind investing in the latest model, as it comes with the latest technology,” says Ian. “They’ve thought of everything!”

This means a more versatile tool for use on the farm, augmenting the action of his travelling irrigator and spreading effluent efficiently to grow greener pastures. Unlike some, less advanced slurry tankers, the Joskin is effortlessly able to spread to the newly required 10mm application standard — without having to speed up the tractor! “The Joskin tanker has no problem spreading at the required levels,” says Ian “The tractor doesn’t have to travel fast for a thin spread, and all operations can be done from in the tractor cab.” This helps ‘fill in the gaps’

floating deck  Side discharge or Mulch  Full Zero turn -very easy to use and under that place

YOUR OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT SPECIALIST

ian Ward is impressed by the versatility of his Joskin slurry tanker making dealing with new spreading and effluent storage rules easier

where the travelling irrigator can’t reach, both on the main farm and on a nearby block also owned by the Wards. With a super-powerful vacuum pump built in, the Joskin is able to fill in approximately three minutes — “Not even time to make a phone call,” according to Ian. Storage of effluent and its effective application under the new rules is a big issue for farmers both in Canterbury and across the country. With

FINANCE, LEASE TO BUY www.omcpowerequipment.co.nz · 100 Gasson St, Christchurch

PHONE 0800 662 769 toll free · sales@omc.net.nz

the Joskin slurry tanker in his shed, ready to go, Ian is able to spread at times when irrigation is impractical or impossible. Even if the worst happens and the irrigator needs repairs, the reliable Joskin is there to pick up the slack. “It’s a very well engineered machine,” says Ian “The same vacuum pump switches to a blower pump, adding just a bit of back pressure — much more efficient than gravity feed.”

Slurry Tankers Other items from Joskin

Turn Effluent problems into profit!

Tip Trailer

· · · · · · ·

Wide Range from 5000L – 23000L models Large range of spreading and injection tools available Order indent or range of models ex stock Fully galvanized tank Sprung drawbar Endless options to suit every operation Full service and parts back up guaranteed

Muck Spreader

Save $$

call now 0800 327 624 Pond Stirrer CUR RAG HS ROA

JON

10 Curraghs Road, Rolleston, Christchurch 7678 P.O. Box 16069, Hornby, Christchurch 8441 Email: sales@murrayimplement.co.nz www.murrayimplement.co.nz

Phone 03 349 4450 Fax 03 347 3580

ONS RO

ROBINS

Toll Free 0508 450 450 BEST GEAR. BEST ADVICE

ROA

February 2013

SOUTH ISLAND AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS

From the back country to the open road by andy Bryenton

Suzuki motorcycles enjoy a great reputation with riders across all kinds of terrain and disciplines — from farmers looking for great ATV value for money through to serious sportsriders seeking adrenaline at the redline of performance. Names like the learnerfriendly GN250 and the legendary Hayabusa have become part of motorcycle culture, and as a new generation of Suzuki bikes hit

the streets and the pastures of New Zealand it’s dealerships like Avon City Suzuki in Christchurch who carry that legacy forward.

The Avon City team are more than up to the task — their big showroom and workshop is a mecca for motorcyclists, stocking everything from parts and accessories right through

to the very latest machines from the Japanese marque. At this year’s Field Days they will of course be showcasing some of the powerful quads and two-wheelers which have made Suzuki second only to the trusty sheepdog as the ‘farmer’s best friend’ — but there’s more in store to take riders from the back country to the open road. Learner riders have more choice than ever for 2013 — check out the ever popular GN125, or step up to the fullsized and stunningly presented

GW250 Inazuma, all on an L licence. For the more experienced rider, Suzuki’s big touring range boasts chrome, torque and comfort in the form of the Boulevard C90BT and Boulevard M109R; a pair of aces all ready for taking in winding roads and amazing scenery. Cutting edge performance comes with the name GSX-R, and this year’s crop of racesharpened sports machines is no exception. From a nimble and powerful 600cc

model through to the world renowned speed and accuracy of the GSX-R1000 you’ll find engineering genius and fullnoise adrenaline in every one. Avon City Suzuki are proud to bring Canterbury riders the best which Suzuki have to offer — both for the Field Days and beyond. Donald Pannett and his team look forward to seeing you on the big day, and also to taking care of your investment through their unsurpassed service department.

BACK or NECK PAIN? If you do suffer from back or neck pain, then come along to the South Island Agricultural Field Days, Site 913 on March 20th, 21st & 22nd and try the Teeter Hang-Ups Inversion Table.

“The Stockfeeder Experts”

Manufacturers and suppliers of the

Original NZ made Stockfeeder Round, Oval and Rectangular feeders, plus Feed Fence lengths available for Cattle, Deer and Sheep

 Simplify big bale feeding  Stop wasting hay & silage  Easy to assemble, fill & move  100% NZ made 0800 104 404

South Island Field Days Site 656 (in CRT Lane) agbrand@stockfeeders.co.nz

PO Box 5, Clevedon

www.stockfeeders.co.nz

A three and a half year medical study recently completed at the Regional Neuroscience Centre in Newcastle by one of the UK’s leading Neurosurgeons and authorities on back care, found that Inversion Therapy reduced the need for spinal surgery by 77% compared to 22% with traditional methods of treatment. We will set the table at a slight angle of 20 degrees, which will gently take the pressure off your spine and relax you in a way you have never felt before.

Show Specials Bring this ad along for a free treatment

Inversion therapy may help you with: • Reduce Back Pain • Stimulate circulation & Lymph Flow • Improve posture • Reduce Muscle Tension • Strengthen Ligaments • Increase Blood to the Brain • Reduce the effects of aging • Increase flexibility

After five years in NZ there are now enough people using the Teeter Hang-Ups to dispel the last of any doubts, these really do work. We have helped thousands of people get ongoing relief from their back pain, bring this ad along for a free treatment and see for yourself.

Inversion NZ Ltd

0800 62 62 83 www.inversionnz.co.nz

Providing Rural Dreams Since 1938 Keith Hay delivers a range of homes especially suited to the New Zealand environment and way of life. We are proud to be a New Zealand owned family business founded in 1938. With our experience, more than 22,000 satisfied customers and a five year personal guarantee, Keith Hay is still New Zealand’s most trusted home builder!

0800 KEITH HAY 534 844

www.keithhayhomes.co.nz

Come and visit us at this year’s Southern Field Days, Site 61, and talk to us about our Field Day special.

February 2013

Manufacturers of Agricultural Equipment

Linkage feeders

2 bale feeders

3 bale feeders

Jumbo feeders

Multi feeder

Silage wagons

See you at Southland Agricultural Field Days Site #550 & #600 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Demonstrating every day a full range of feedout gearâ&#x20AC;?

Silage trailers

Rotary manure spreader

Slurry tankers

Heavy rollers

Loadmaster trailers

Contractors trailers

652 Halswell Junction Rd, Christchurch 8441, New Zealand.

Phone: 03 3441322 Cellphone: 021 2771322

www.agmech.com agmechsales@xtra.co.nz

Freephone 0800 422 533

February 2013

SOUTH ISLAND AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS

Design is the Agmech key Innovative engineering design and manufacture of both trailers and feed out equipment is the hallmark of Agmech’s business with the company renowned for customer service. A particular advantage to the customer is the powerful blend of practical farming experience combined with exceptionally skilled engineering. “The continued drive for functionality, quality, durability and affordability has catapulted Agmech to the forefront of agricultural technology and innovation,” says director, Gary Baker. “With our extensive field experience coupled with the latest computer aided technology, Agmech can reactively offer the highest level of advice, with workable engineering solutions that are efficient and relevant. When it comes to the crunch Agmech is listening, offering our experience and coming up with workable solutions.” He cites the Loadmaster tip trailer — ranging from three to 12 tonnes it’s designed for general farm use. “This range of well built and very robust trailer has many standard features including a fast tipping 60° body, full RHS chassis with single beam drawbar, bolt

on tandem axles as standard, with single axle models on request, removeable hinged sides and tailgate, swivel tow eye and non rust Corten steel deck.” The Site-master range of trailer is designed specifically for the earth-works industry. These all have fast tipping bodies, via the multi staged rams that give 60 degrees of tip. “With two choices of body they are for customers that require the flexibility of being able to reduce the trailer to a flatbed for those other jobs,” Gary adds. “Our Linkage feeders are a real simple cost effective solution to either feeding out on very hilly country where traction maybe a problem, or you simply only have a few bales to feed. There are four models to choose from including specialist feeders. “We have an extensive range of Bale feeders catering for all types of baled materials and all budgets, including top end products that feed large square bales. As bale weights get higher Agmech feeders offer the piece of mind that they can

handle the job. There is no need to struggle with gear that isn’t up to it.” The company is also proud of the Jumbo bale feeders — which manage from three bales to a massive six bales at once. “Once you get into a situation of numbers of bales the Agmech Jumbo Tub feeders simply increase the efficiency by 100 to 300 per cent.”

• Mowing • Wrapping • Ag Spreading • Cultivation & Drilling • Ag Plastic Recycling

• Baling • Cartage • Ploughing • Hay & Straw Sales

www.mccarthycontracting.co.nz Jumbo Bale Feeders

Ph 03 329 6655 or 0274 848 564

South ISland FIeld dayS IS approachIng Come and see us on site 452 to look over the latest Massey Ferguson tractor to hit the stores. The 7600 Series as well as the Fendt 700, 800 Series tractors.

We are now authorised dealers for Gilltrap Equipment for Christchurch, Ashburton and Timaru. So speak to us about your feedout and effluent disposal requirements. We will also have a display of the latest Lely products including balers, mowers, rakes and tedders, along with the latest telehandler model from Manitou, the 840.

We will be on site to answer all questions and there will be show specials so don’t miss out

36 Hickory Place Hornby CHCH 03 344 5645

9 McGregor Lane ASHBURTON 03 307 6031

280 Hilton Highway Washdyke TIMARU 03 688 7401

Maurice Jordon 027 260 7821

Terry Gordon (Chch/Ash) 027 260 7820

Peter Hughes 027 458 9873

Nick Wilson 027 498 7044

www.jj.co.nz

February 2013

SOUTH ISLAND AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS

Kiwi innovation offers milking technology squared by andy Bryenton

Waikato Milking Systems have been making Kiwi ingenuity famous around the world in the dairy sector — what began as a component supply company has grown into a multinational concern pushing the boundaries of modern farming. Their latest innovation ticks all the boxes for the perfect invention — simple, affordable, easy to implement, and based on a flash of insight.

The new Quadrant liner range for automatic milking systems is as straightforward — and potentially as game changing — as the paper clip. Rather than adopting a round cross section, the development team at Waikato Milking Systems have developed a square ‘barrel’ for their new range. Corners may seem counter intuitive, but it’s an ideal backed up by the biology of cows and calves, providing a more comfortable milking which is easier on teat ends. Farmers who have already adopted the Quadrant system are reporting faster milking times, less cup slip and improved animal health, especially teat and udder condition. This is all good news, but it gets even better when another factor is taken into consideration. That is the fact that happy cows produce more!

KITSET FARM SHEDS

Ellis Road RANGIORA P. 03 313 8339 F. 03 313 3767 sheds@mcalpines.co.nz

“When I changed to Quadrant square liners an improvement in milking comfort, teat condition and udder health soon became obvious,” says South Island dairy farmer Warwick Kent,

ADVANCED FEED

Solutions

CANTERBURY

We can design and install • Feeds systems for new and existing herring bone/rotary dairy sheds • Molasses systems • Silos • Hampton Grain Roller Mill

an early adopter of the new technology. “Cows are more settled in the shed and cups slips are few and far between. These liners made a real difference.” Throughout history the Waikato has been a seed-bed for new agricultural ideas, and the birthplace of the agricultural electric fence has given us

another innovation which may soon become ubiquitous on dairy farms all over the world. Representatives from the company will demonstrate this and other Waikato Milking Systems technology at the forthcoming Field Days — be sure to take a look at how this innovation could help your farm.

At Advanced Feed Solutions Canterbury we understand how important it is to feed stock correctly.

The Hampton 242 Grain Roller Mill

Visit our site at the South Island Agricultural Field Days, Lincoln, 20 – 22 March or call Geoffrey now for a free quote Ph 03 324 2800 or 027 226 8698

www.hamptongroup.co.nz

February 2013

SOUTH ISLAND AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS

When do I start irrigating? Do I need to irrigate today? To answer that question, you need to know a number of things such as: • How much moisture is in the soil? • What is the soil temperature?

You could dig a hole in the ground or see what the neighbours are doing and take your chances, but the best and most efficient way is to base it on accurate data. Unless you like wasting your time, money and resources, there is no value in applying more water than the

• What rainfall is expected?

soil can store, but if it isn’t applied before critical soil water deficit is reached, your pasture growth will slow down. Also, grass growth is slow when the temperature is below 10 degrees Celsius at a depth of 10cm and drier soils warm more quickly than wet soils, so applying water can cool the soil

further. The key is to find the right mix and balance for your farm. Most of you will have a water meter monitoring solution, or will be getting one installed, and understand the value of knowing you’re within your consent limits. Adding a few more sensors to your system will help improve yields and output many times over the cost of the equipment. Being a smarter farmer and knowing when, where and how much to irrigate will save you thousands of dollars in electricity bills, labour, maintenance and lost feed costs. Bruce Franks CEO DataCol Group www.datacolgroup.com

READY TO SHIFT UP A GEAR WITH YOUR METERING? DataCol can make it easy for you. Save time

Save money

Save hassle

Come and see DataCol in Covered Stand C26 at the South Island Agricultural Field Days at Lincoln, March 20-22. We'll have some great prizes on offer as well as all the information you'll need to help upgrade your system.

www.datacolgroup.com

0800 638 372

Sick of high ACC levies? Did you know you may be eligible to choose your level of ACC cover and reduce your levies, putting the balance towards a tailored insurance plan that will not only cover you for accidents but illness as well.

Win a Dream Ride in the Ariel Atom on display at the SIAFD or enter online www.delray.co.nz

We specialise in both Business and Personal Insurance where you will receive advice from an adviser who is associated with several leading insurance companies giving you a holistic approach to your needs. To find out more, call Tim Lethlean on (03) 344 5966 or email office@delray.co.nz

Disclosure Statements are available on request and are free of charge.

If you’re reading this, so are your customers To advertise call 03 347 2314

February 2013

STEEL ROOF RACK

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AIRFORCE SNORKEL

$350

HID DRIVING LIGHTS

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BULL BARS

SUSPENSION LIFT KITS TOYOTA - Landcruiser / Hilux NISSAN - Patrol / Navara FORD - Ranger MAZDA - BT50 ISUZU - D-Max HOLDEN - Colorado MITSUBISHI - Pajero / Triton

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THE LARGEST RANGE IN THE WORLD

SYNTHETIC ROPE

9500lb

$999

$1199

12000lb

$1099

JEEP - Wrangler

Suspension Kits From

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Black Commercial

$1350

Deluxe Commercial

Protector

$1580

$1750

Terraquip NZ Ltd Terraquip NZ Ltd The 4x4 Centre Kaikoura Auto Centre 176 Waterloo Road, Hornby, 8042 176 Waterloo Road, 75 Vanguard Street 83 Beach Road Hornby, 8042 Nelson Ph: (03) 349 0037 Mob: 027Kaikoura 296 2346 Ph: (03) 349 0037 Ph (03) 548 2731 Ph (03) 319 6009 Email: vince@terraquip.co.nz Mob: 027 296 2346 NELSON

KAIKOURA

HOKITIKA

DUNEDIN

Stewart Farming & Recreation 227 Hilton Highway, Washdyke

HARROP/EATON ELOCKER TM

$1299

Prices exclude GST, Fitting and Freight. Prices are subject to change without notice

Stewart Farming & Recreation Hokitia Automotive St Kilda Automotive Junction Autos 227 Hilton 46 FitzherbertHighway, Street, 68 Prince Albert Road 58 Boundary Road, Hokitika Dunedin Alexandra Washdyke Ph (03) 756 8014 Ph (03) 455 1031 Ph: (03) 448 6826 Ph (03) 688 7517 Ph (03) 688 7517 TIMARU

$164

$1999

Prices exclude GST, Fitting and Freight. Prices are subject to change without notice CHRISTCHURCH

From

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Hokitia Automotive Off Road Engineering Motors & Auto 46 Fitzherbert Street, Cottle Westra Street Electrix Railway Yard, Clinton 65 Main Road, Hokitika Kumeu, Auckland Ph (03) 415 7040 Ph (03) 756 8014 Ph: (09) 412 9908 CLINTON

Email: vince@terraquip.co.nz

AUCKLAND

TOLL FREE 0508 IRONMAN TOLL FREE (0508 4766626) 0508 IRONMAN

TAURANGA

HAMILTON

TAUPO

WHANGAREI

Toy-ota Commercials Partsworld 60 Maleme Street, Greerton, Tauranga

Turbo & Diesel Specialists 281 Kahikatea Drive, Frankton, Hamilton

Performance Mechanical & Engineering 20 Matai Street, Taupo

Onerahi Garage 1 Church Street Whangarei

www.ironman4x4.co.nz Ph: 0800 4x4 SPARES (0800 494 772)

Ph: (07) 847 3339

Ph: (07) 376 5982

Ph (09) 436 5971

www.ironman4x4.co.nz

(0508 4766626)

KOREAN QUALITY. KOREAN RELIABILITY. TYM. EXPECT MORE.

100HP Tractor with LOADER!

681a Halswell Junction Road, Hornby, Christchurch. ph: 03 349 4451 | em: james@mtctractors.co.nz

$73,000

+GST

KOREAN QUALITY

Only while stocks last.

February 2013

SOUTH ISLAND AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS

Ironman for 4x4 performance

by Paul Campbell

With over 54 years of experience in the four-wheel drive accessories business and with exports to over 120 countries, Ironman 4x4 has become one of the key players in the market. “The full range of accessories are available from distributors throughout New Zealand and sales in the Canterbury region are booming,” says general manager, Vince Rietveld. “The Ironman 4x4 range is extensive and includes bull bars, winches, suspension upgrades, diff locks, snorkels, recovery gear, lighting and camping accessories. They are available for most vehicle models and offer quality, affordability and are built tough with extensive warranties.” Ironman 4x4 have bull bars available for a range of vehicles from the early 1980s to the latest 2012 model, with three bar types available that are airbag/winch compatible, have an aerial mount as well as mounting points for additional driving lights, tough polyurethane bumper pads and a tough powder coat finish.

underbody protection kits which give enhanced protection from rocks, mud and debris. These kits are made from 3mm pressed steel, have easy bolt on installation with no drilling or welding required and are semi gloss powder coated for long life.” To reduce the risk of an engine taking in water and to increase air intake height, Ironman 4x4 sell snorkel kits to give increased airflow and performance. Visit site 955 at the Field Days to see a range of vehicles with Ironman accessories and an extensive range of products. There will be specials and discounts on site. www. ironman4x4.co.nz or phone 0508 IRONMAN for details.

• Braked Rear Hoof Winch • Positionable Back Leg Support Bar • Braked Belly Winch with 2 Girths • Winched double-locking front supports • Removable Sides • Rear-closing headbail • Solid construction • Affordable - Fast - Safe

“Suspension kits and components with raised height, long travel and improved performance are available for most makes and models of vehicles,” adds Mr Rietveld. “Ironman 4x4 shock absorbers are available in 35mm Nitro gas or 41mm Foam cell. These have longer travel and are built stronger to deliver performance in all conditions. Leaf and coil springs are made from high quality SUP9 steel and are available in different load ratings from ‘comfort’ to extra constant load.” All suspension carries a twoyear/40,000km warranty. “The developed

company a range

has of

Multi Award Winner Patented Design Made in New Zealand 5 Year Warranty

it a

pays to have wrangler

phone 0800 100 325

February 2013

SOUTH ISLAND AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS

Wastewater treatment revolutionised

by andy Bryenton

A good waste water treatment system is the key to a healthy and happy home — tirelessly tackling a ‘dirty job’ out of sight and often out of mind. For those living ‘off the grid’, away from town wastewater infrastructure, the old fashioned option of a traditional septic system has been superseded by new technology; an innovative new approach pioneered right here in New Zealand. 6 Questions you should ask yourself before choosing your next plant supplier...

1. Is the nursery a reputable one, with a great track record? - YES! 2. Will the stock quality be second to none? - OF COURSE! 3. Can I get a free quote on my landscape plan? - ABSOLUTELY! 4. Will I get really great value for money? - YOU BET! 5. Are staff experienced and able to offer great advice? - YES! 6. Can stock be freighted locally and nationwide? - NO PROBLEM!

CALL NOW for your fre e catalogue! 0800 800 3 52

See us in the CRT tent at the South Island Field Days 20th -22nd March, Lincoln

www. southernwoods.co.nz Fax (03) 347 9223 Main South Road, Templeton, Christchurch

Waterflow NZ is the name of the company behind the Naturalflow system, a new kind of power-free, ecologically friendly wastewater treatment system — one which offers cost and environmental benefits without the need for specialist plumbing. The modular inground system is designed and constructed in the New Zealand by Kiwi engineers and entrepreneurs, is molded from durable plastic by Northland company Portstar Plastics, and assembled by Waterflow to ship across the country. Canterbury installers Taunton Civil have all the training and experience necessary to put Naturalflow systems in the ground and get them working for local customers. New homes, and indeed homes which require a wastewater system upgrade due to expansion or renovations, are a perfect match with the odourless, simple Naturalflow design. Harnessing the power of nature to break down waste in a chemical-free, powerfree manner, the system saves water (especially in grey water processing), and is already receiving praise from early adopters.

a Kiwi made system; the perfect fit for Kiwi farms

“The unit has worked without a hitch since the day we started using it — now over two years ago,” says R.S. Allen of Hahei beach, a very satisfied Naturalflow customer. “I would highly recommend this system.” As Canterbury continues on the road to rebuilding after the devastating earthquakes of 2011, this new innovation is truly coming to the fore. The Naturalflow system is not dependant on concrete pipe reticulation, and can easily handle the demands of the modern home, taking the strain off civic infrastructure. It’s also perfect for any area which, like

Canterbury, is challenged by the demand for water savings in the hot, dry summer months. By combining tried and tested bio-science with an innovative new approach to wastewater management, Naturalflow has become a home-grown success story. Today Waterflow have qualified installers, drainage engineers and representatives across New Zealand, quietly revolutionising the way we deal with waste in the 21st Century. If you are building, renovating or upgrading, call them to discuss your options, and enjoy the Naturalflow difference!

MOVING ROUNDS OR SQUARES? ProAg Square Bale Pickers/Stackers

Fast, reliable big square or round bale pickers/stackers for both baleage and straw

See us at the SOUTH ISLAND

Square Bale Pickers — 3 models to choose from — 4SR, 12SR and 16K

AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS

4SR picks up and stacks 4 of 4x4 and 6 of 4x3 bales 12SR picks and stacks 4 of 4x4 and 12 of 3x4 and 12 of 3x3 bales 16K picks and stacks 8 of 4x4 and 12 of 3x4 and 18 of 3x3 bales

With both square and round pickers, bales can be picked up at any angle in the paddock. You don’t need to stop the tractor to pick up either, just keep on moving. Once loaded, tow to unload area, tip the deck and Hay Hiker, it hydraulically pushes the bales off into two separate rows. Pro Ag square stacker hydraulically tips until load is vertical, then simply drive forward to leave stack behind.

ENGINEERING LTD

PHONE NOW!

Freephone 0800 758 257 Email: enquiries@plucks.co.nz Fax: 03 302 7999 • www.plucks.co.nz

881 carries up to 12, 1.2m wide bales of any diameter 1400 carries up to 18, 1.2m wide bales of any diameter

TIME FE

ITION D N O C W E N S A — STOCK EX DEMO Hay ! R E F F O Hiker Makes It Easy N A E M E K A M 2 models — 881 and 1400

OR MA

February 2013

SOUTH ISLAND AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS

Cutting for a cause by Denise Gunn

With a qualified hairdresser on site at this year’s South Island Agricultural Field Days, visitors can get a haircut and make a donation to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter at the same time. Vania Barber has over 25 years’ experience in the hairdressing industry and currently owns a salon in Selwyn. This will be the third occasion she has provided haircuts at the Field Days to raise funds for the rescue helicopter. “The Westpac Rescue Helicopter is a critical service for the farming community,” said Vania. “Accidents can happen at any time and often in remote locations making the helicopter an essential and often lifesaving service.” Vania’s fundraising work for the rescue helicopter has earned her the nickname ‘Chopper Lady’.

Photo: Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust

During the field days, Vania will close the doors to her business in Selwyn as she sets up a makeshift salon at site 117–118 from March 20–22. “I donate my time to be on the site and with 25 plus years of experience you can be guaranteed to get an expert haircut,” said Vania. “I meet some very interesting people and it’s a way of giving back to the rescue helicopter.” At previous field days Vania has cut hair for over 200 visitors.

Visitors to site 117–118 at the south island agricultural Field Days can get a haircut from qualified hairdresser, Vania Barber, and make a donation to the Westpac rescue Helicopter at the same time

S RIC OUTH ULT URA ISLAN L FI D ELD DA

“Come and see the Chopper Lady,” said Vania.

ELECTRIC FENCING PRODUCTS

GUARANTEED TO LAST 20yr Guarantee on Insulators

NO8

NO18

Unbreakable

Gate Handles & Bobbins with 10yr Guarantee

Visit us at Lincoln Field Days site 923 If unavailable from local retailer contact us: Ph: 03 319 5467 - Fax: 03 319 6062 E-mail: sales@beattieinsulators.co.nz

LINCOLN UNIVERSITY FARM • MARCH 20 - 22 2013

www.beattieinsulators.co.nz

THE BIGGEST AGRICULTURAL DEMONSTRATION FIELD DAYS IN NEW ZEALAND • Lincoln University

www.siafd.co.nz

Electric Fencing for Generations

Roundwood

Southbrook Rd Rangiora Ph 03 313 8339 Fax 03 313 3767 Email roundwood@mcalpines.co.nz

POSTS

• Deer Posts • Stays • Strainers • Poles • Sheep Posts • Trellis Posts

February 2013

SOUTH ISLAND AGRICULTURAL FIELD DAYS

Natrakelp liquid seaweed Available in Australia since 1987 the Australian preferred brand of seaweed ‘Natrakelp’ is now available to farmers across the South Island. Barry Davidson from Bio Ag and Hort Ltd is the South Island distributor of the Natrakelp liquid seaweed products. Products include liquid fertilisers and an animal health tonic. Natrakelp liquid seaweed fertilisers are used to revitalise or maintain the biological activity in soils and to aid plant and animal health. Derived from Tasmanian Bull Kelp (Durvilleae potatorum) Natrakelp liquid seaweed contains between 60 and 70 vitamins, micro minerals, trace elements and naturally occurring growth stimulants-auxins, gibberellins and cytokinins which are all beneficial to plant growth.

Natrakelp seaweed will:

liquid

• Produce healthier stock with quicker weight gains

• Promote stronger root development in plants

• Increase the beneficial microbes, bacteria, fungi and worm count in the soil therefore improving the overall health and biology of the soil

• Provide plants with micro-minerals and trace elements for healthy growth • Increase photosynthesis of plants from increased chlorophyll content • Make pasture sweeter and more palatable for live stock

Natrakelp fertiliser products include an organic liquid seaweed fertiliser (Natrakelp for Plants) and a Natrakelp NPK range. The NPK range contains a 65%

seaweed base, nitrogen, phosphate, potassium plus chelated trace elements. The NPK ratings are 20.0.0, 18.3.10, 12.3.12, 5.3.19. Another Natrakelp product is an organic liquid seaweed health tonic for animals called Natrakelp for Animals which is suitable for all types of livestock. Bio Ag and Hort also provides liquid fertiliser application services in the North and

Mid Canterbury areas catering for lifestyle block holders, beef, sheep and dairy farmers. To

Over time you will be able to reduce your solid fertiliser application rates, therefore increasing the profitability of your farm. Liquid fertiliser products

Services

• Natrakelp pure seaweed • Natrakelp plus added NPK • Bio Marinus liquid fish • Humates

• Liquid fertiliser spraying Canterbury wide

Harpers Rd, Loburn Phone 03 313 6056 – Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5:30pm

~ Equestrian gear ~ Manufacture of our own Canvas Horse Covers ~ Stockfood ~ Horse supplements

0800 NATRAKELP Liquid Seaweed

how

We proudly offer

• Soil testing

out

WE’VE MOVED T

Sustainable and profitable biological fertiliser solutions

Liquid fertiliser is a cost effective way to revitalize or maintain the beneficial micro organisms in your soil. By adding liquid seaweed or liquid fish fertiliser to your solid fertiliser program you will increase your natural fertility of your soil and the health of your animals.

find

Natrakelp liquid seaweed can benefit the health of your pasture, plants or livestock visit Barry at site 919 at the South Island Field Days.

~ Leatherwork ~ Saddle repairs ~ Canvas work ~ Trampolines (new tops or repairs) ~ Horse Cover and Repairs – Canvas & Synthetic

Check out our new website

for Pasture, Plants & Animals

www.donclarke.co.nz and register online for our new delivery service

BARRY DAVIDSON — BIO AG & HORT LTD

237 Wainoni Rd, Avondale, Christchurch 8061. Email barryd1968@xtra.co.nz

16mm high tensile – Our 12mm-16mm spiked are all available in mild and high tensile steel. We alsO have standard mild 20x24m spiked harrOWs.

phone/Fax 03 347 8516 | www.lyndonharrows.co.nz

email lyndonharrows@xtra.co.nz

See us at Lincoln Field Day — Site No. 660

Courier your

community

Country Courier

newspaper

February 2013

E D U C AT I O N Attention:

Phone: 03 687 92

Company:

12-14 George S Email

Boarding students back onsite

practical bedroom design Fax: that is not only spacious but also has attractive Date: furnishings, including built Students have returned to boarding onsite at St Andrew’s in desks, pin boards and storage. every floor has a Date of ad after insertion: College after spending almost two years in motels day lounge, complete with the February 2011 earthquake resulted in two of the three tV and balcony where students can relax and boarding houses being demolished. socialise. a movie lounge on each ground floor offers the new complex is the college seized the however protection of the a friendly space for smaller opportunity to develop a asset was also important. designed to have a natural gatherings. new boarding complex the total team effort indoor/outdoor flow with “it is outstanding to that would house 120 of between our architects striking landscaping, have our boarders back their 163 boarders, with and our onsite and to share once the other 43 boarders contractors has again a vibrant and accommodated in the been amazing supportive community, remaining boarding house. and they have which generates lifethe new boarding met some very long friendships. Being complex, designed c h a l l e n g i n g onsite fosters our strong by Wilkie and Bruce deadlines that boarding spirit and allowed architects, is built to 100% have culture that makes staC of the new building code, us to be open boarding distinctive,” using the latest engineering within 13 months says Director of starting technology. significant of Boarding, Dianne ground remediation construction.” MacDonald. work, comprising of 660 the cost student head stone columns, six metres of the two of boys’ boarding deep, overlain by a deep new boarding Matthew Morrison gravel raft and concrete houses, which agrees. “With everyone slab foundation has taken separately house on site the boarding place. boys and girls, culture has flourished $15.2m General Manager was with interactions between David evans says, “safety with a further $2.2m lawns and courtyards seniors and juniors for our students and staff spent refurbishing and for casual gatherings. renewing, and excitement was paramount when strengthening the junior the interior is light and running rife through contemporary with the houses.” considering this project, boys’ boarding house.

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Come and join the St Andrew’s boarding family in their new home.

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Our state-of-the-art boarding complex is now open! Come and see us at our road shows and find out what makes St Andrew’s boarding a home away from home. We’d love to meet you at our road shows and tell you about boarding at St Andrew’s. Matthew Morrison and Lucy Power, Heads of Boarding 2013.

We are taking enrolments now for 2014 ASHBURTON

CHEVIOT

QUEENSTOWN

Tuesday 5 March 5.00pm - 7.00pm Lushingtons, 5 Archibald St, Tinwald

Wednesday 6 March 5.00pm - 7.00pm Two Rivers Cafe, 11 Hall St

Thursday 7 March 5.00pm - 7.00pm The Rees, 377 Frankton Rd

Please visit our website for further information www.stac.school.nz or to RSVP contact our Registrar Julie Raateland on 940 2016 or by email jwa@stac.school.nz 347 Papanui Road, Strowan, Christchurch.

SCAN AND VIEW A VIDEO OF OUR NEW BOARDING COMPLEX

February 2013

E D U C AT I O N SUSTAINABLE

FARM MANAGEMENT Starts with... • More Profit • Less Labour • Healthy Land To learn more...Contact Biological Husbandary Unit, based at Lincoln University. Register now for part-time courses. Starting March and June. college@bhu.co.nz www.bhu.co.nz 0800 835 367 03 325 3684

Course offers fresh perspectives on farming The Certificate in Sustainable Farm Management will be offered by the BHU Organic Training College at two locations this year. It will be held in Oamaru and Lincoln and offers fresh ideas and new perspectives on farm management. The Women In Farming group Under the Kakanuis is hosting the course in Oamaru starting March 4 and 5, and the two Lincoln-based courses will begin on March 9 and June 20. The part-time courses will focus on lifting profits, reducing labour, and regenerating soil health. It is ideal for farmers, growers, farm workers, and lifestyle blockies exploring organic or biological farming practices. While many courses focus on theoretical concepts or hands-on outdoor skills, this course builds practical skills to improve decision-making with farming activities and development. Research shows that it is

a farmer’s decision-making ability that is the biggest influence on profitability, not production systems. The course introduces new perspectives to help farmers see solutions and make good decisions. The foundation of farming is a healthy environment and the course looks at how farmers can tap into environmental processes to reduce costs and earn a living. This links into a cornerstone of the course — financial literacy — and its relationship to farm investment and expenses. Farmers know higher production does not necessarily mean higher profits. A classic example is shearing lambs; it makes them grow faster but that gain doesn’t pay for shearing. The course also targets observation skills as an early awareness of environmental and livestock problems are crucial aspects of a strong financial business. For example: what drinking and

students study soil health

grazing behaviours forewarn livestock and soil health problems? How do plants indicate soil health? Where do first signs of a degrading production system appear? Knowing what to look for saves money and time. The course runs in twoday blocks to reduce travelling for out-of-towners. Organic Training College agribusiness tutor John King, teaches sustainable farm management

in New Zealand and Australia and he draws on many experiences from a network of local and overseas farmers. The Organic Training College runs very successful courses in organic horticulture and is now expanding its range by offering courses which bring a fresh perspective to agriculture. For more information contact campus manager Bill Martin at 03 325 3684 or bill@bhu.co.nz.

Building a legacy of success Garin College is a relatively new player in the world of boarding schools.

Garin College for your Child’s Future Garin College is a co-educational Catholic College with boarding facilities for boys and girls based in Richmond, Nelson. We have a number of places for non-Catholic students.

Our boarders achieve well above the national average at all levels of NCEA We are now taking enrolments for 2014 and beyond, be quick to secure your place as positions are limited. ENROL NOW

Established in 2002, the school and hostel is just 11 years old — but already the school has national sports champions, students gaining places in regional and national cultural competitions, leads the way in academic success in the Top-of-the-South, and has already developed a strong reputation for the quality of its modern music programme. Garin is a year 9–13, coeducational Catholic Integrated school built to absorb some of the population drift to

an easy walk to school

Nelson — and sited at the hub of the Saxton Fields sports

Do you want a career...

To find our more go to www.garincollege.ac.nz

He says the strengths of the school are its size (just 480 students and year 9–10 classes of 21–23 students), its Christian values (he calls it ‘back to the future’ — old fashioned values wrapped in the best of forward thinking teaching and learning), and its hostel.

Working in a rural veterinary practice?

Garin College 35 Champion Road, Richmond, Nelson P: +64 3 543 9488 F: +64 3 543 9489 Small School, Big Heart

development in Nelson. Head Teacher John Boyce says that the joy of starting a new school is not the building (although he acknowledges that buildings designed for twenty-first century curriculum is a big advantage). The real benefit is being able to employ a ‘stunning staff’, each expert in their field, and able to deliver that curriculum in an imaginative and creative way.

Telford – a Division of Lincoln University offers the Certificate for Rural Animal Technicians. This qualification is a pathway to work with veterinarians, assisting them with animal health and husbandry, or as a precursor for further studies.

Learn more

www.telford.ac.nz 0800 835 367

The Garin hostel is a twovilla complex, housing 56 students in the heart of a new suburb just minutes from the school. They provide a wellsupervised, positive and active community with boys and girls kept busy at their study and a very wide range of sporting, arts and service activities in the Nelson/Richmond area. The hostel is currently full, and is collecting names for 2014 and 2015.

February 2013

E D U C AT I O N A strong academic focus with facilities second to none by Duncan Wood, year 13 adams House student 2012

Timaru Boys’ High School Thomas House Boarding Hostel

ASHBURTON GUARDIAN, Saturday, November 26, 2012 my education. No towards

“We could tell you all about why Adams House has built a reputation as one of this country’s premier Boarding Schools, but why not get it straight from source? An Ashburton Advertising Here is whatGuardian the students haveFeature to say…

favour is ever too much to ask of them. Although having to do homework each night may at first seem like a chore, it has certainly helped me develop good work habits which I will take into the future. Also, the convenience of living with others doing the same assignments and courses is a huge advantage come exam time.

Have you considered boarding Education Feature as an option for your son? Enrolments Now Open for 2014. Prospective students wishing to enrol at Thomas House will need to make a formal application before the 11th May 2013 as vacancies are limited.

A strong academic focus with facilities second to none

For me, it goes without me to settle in along with the saying that Christchurch Boys’ friendly staff and prefects who High School is one of the were all extremely welcoming. best secondary schools in the Adams House itself is an Looking back, being none. The swimming pool, tennis exciting place to second live in, to with country and after being a part put out of my comfort zone by Duncan Wood, courts, weights room, dedicated facilities second to none. cricket The nets, of its boarding schoolHouse for theStudent and making the move to Year 13 Adams 2012 music room and great food make past five years I can say the swimming pool, tennis courts, Boys’ High has the benefitted cricket nets, weights room, ‘Hostels’ the envy of the rest of the school. same for Adams House. It was me greatly, allowing me to “I nee We could tell you all about why room, and house a huge decision for me and my dedicated music The boarding a strong academic maturehasmore quickly, make Adamscoming House to hasthe built a reputation onemake of focus great as food, the ‘hostels’ family boarding and I have found the structures and lifelong friends, and become envy but of the rest of the a lot more independent. I have this country’s premierupBoarding Schools, house after growing in a the staff to be extremely supportive towards my school. why not getonit the straight small town West from Coast.source? Here is no regrets whatsoever, I education. No favour is ever too muchand to ask Living away from home cannot emphasise enough the has what the students haveintothe say… The boardingofhouse them. Although having to do homework big city of Christchurch seemed a strong academic focus and I opportunities which lie ahead each night maywhen at first seem like a chore, it For daunting me, it goes without sayinghave that found the structures you are fortunate enough very at the time. The and has certainly helped me good work Christchurch Boys’life Highhelped School staff is one Adams House. routine of hostel to of be the extremely supportive to board at develop

best secondary schools in the country and after being a part of its boarding school for the past five years I can say the same for Adams House. It was a huge decision for me and my family coming to the boarding house after growing up in a small town on the West Coast. Living away from home in the big city of Christchurch seemed very daunting at the time. The routine of hostel life helped me to settle in along with the friendly staff and prefects who were all extremely welcoming. Adams House itself is an exciting place to live in, with facilities

habits which I will take into the future. Also, the convenience of living with others doing the same assignments and courses is a huge advantage come exam time. Looking back, being put out of my comfort zone and making the move to Boys’ High has benefitted me greatly, allowing me to mature more quickly, make lifelong friends, and become a lot more independent. I have no regrets whatsoever, and I cannot emphasise enough the opportunities which lie ahead when you are fortunate enough to board at Adams House.

An invaluable app for advanced For further information contact: The Administration Secretary, Timaru Boys’ High School learning Private Bag 903 – Timaru. Phone: 03 687 7560 Ext 703 – Email: buntingca@timaruboys.school.nz by Amanda Wright Notability is the ultimate note taking app Website: www.timaruboys.school.nz

We may not all agree that they should be that will help you organize your thoughts, making it a must have for any college or in our schools, but the reality is that iPads, A message to Whanau/Parents: tablets and smart phones will continue to tertiary student. Unfortunately it’s only available on Apple devices, and the creamake an appearance in our class rooms and lectures this year. So in the spirit of tors, Ginger Labs, have no intention of embracing this technology, here is one creating an Android Eng mana e nga reo e nga mataao waka, nga manaakitanga o te tau hou ki a koutouversion katoa, any time soon. of the most useful apps for college, high na reira kia ora mai ano tatou katoa. The closest you will find on Android is an school He panui and tenei tertiary ki a koutoustudents. hei whakamarama nga Maatuaapp ki tecalled kaupapa NCEA mo wou at a cost of $4.03 LectureNotes, Notability ratou tamariki mokopuna. NZD in the Playstore. The reviews from This note taking app has been around NCEA stands for the National Certificate of Educational people who Achievement. have used both apps agree for aiswhile, giving the company plenty of students NCEA the main qualification for secondary school in NZ and can be gained in three that the usability of Notability time(1,to2perfect it. With you qualification can levels and 3). NCEA is thethis mostapp common students will be working towards is easier, but LectureNotes is better, and can export in ata school. variety of helpful ways, intake yearsnotes 11 to 13 ensuring that you’ll never miss anything to Evernote, an amazing way to make and How do students get NCEA. important in a lecture. Notability powershare school material. NCEA is gained by building credits. Credits are awarded for each standard achieved in the courses students fully integrates handwriting, PDF annotaEither way, it will and be aUnit powerful companstudy at school and are measured using assessments, (Achievement standards standards). tion,istyping, and organising so NCEA regardedrecording, by employers. ion to your learning in 2013. you can take notes your way, including NCEA Level NCEA NCEA Level 3: recording the1:entire class so you canLevel listen2: 80 credits; 10 credits in literacy and 80 credits; a minimum of 80 credits; a minimum of again later.

NCEA

10 credits in numeracy. (Year 11)

60 credits at level 2 or above and 20 credits at any level. (Year 12)

60 credits at level 3 or above and 20 credits at level 2 or above. (Year 13)

Tips for parents/whanau: • • • • • • • •

His home... Adams House is a superb Boys’ boarding facility with exemplary standards.

We provide a structured, well supervised and disciplined environment which fosters high achievement. Students enjoy outstanding modern facilities and are supported in all aspects of school and boarding life by caring, friendly staff in a family environment.

Registrations of interest now being taken for 2014

Ask your son or daughter attending secondary school how NCEA works - if they do not understand it then the school will help. Meet with the school and discuss course choices that fit his/her aspirations. Create an action plan together for the things he/she needs to do. Provide your son/daughter with the right gear and place to study. Monitor his/her internal and external assessment plans. Regularly engage with the school and support your child. Know when your child’s assessments are due and that are in on time. MAKE sURE hE/shE AttENds sChool EvERy dAy.

ChristChurCh boys’ high sChool

A tradition of excellence Contact Richard Taylor 70 Harakeke Street, Riccarton, Christchurch Ph 348-5003 Ext 232

www.adamshouse.co.nz

...away from home

Forestry

February 2013

Forestry Market Report Allan Laurie MNZIF Laurie Forestry Ltd

Doing it right Ross Dobby knows how to ‘do it right’. As the photo depicts, together with Phil and Baldrick from Amuri helicopters he has just finishing Gpsing the couple of gullies prior to kill spraying them ready to be planted up this winter. The gullies are very steep and ideal to plant trees as the trees always get a bit of moisture seepage. Together with a weed free site, soils in these gullies stay wetter than the pasture above giving a healthy environment for tree growth. Ross has already proved this idea as he planted up similar gullies 10 years ago with

aged pine cuttings. The growth is second to none. The idea of the initial kill spray is to make sure all roots of adult brushweeds like gorse and broom are dead so that when it comes to undertake the aerial release a few months

TREE HUGGER TREE TOPPING SERVICES LTD • Grabs, cuts trunks up to 500mm diameter, and lowers them in a controlled way • Can top to 8m high • Minimise damage to buildings fences, garden etc • Tree & hedge removal • Free quotes Canterbury wide

Phone Peter Whyte 027 426 5595 03 347 4941 www.treehugga.co.nz

The news for forest owners continues on a positive note for Q1 2013 with the log export segment in an upward price trend for February/ March sales. China continues to dominate this market with demand remaining stable but log supply from other sources dwindling.

after planting he only has to deal with seedling weeds and not coppicing brushweeds. Bare earth is ten times wetter than a brushweed site.

Joke time In a dark and hazy room, peering into a crystal ball, the mystic delivered grave news “There is no easy way to tell you this, so I’ll be blunt. Prepare yourself to become a widow in the near future. Your husband will die a violent and horrible death.” Visibly shaken, Laura stared at the woman’s wrinkled face, and started to shake, and weep uncontrollably. Slowly she took a few deep breaths to compose herself. She just had to know. So she met the fortune teller’s gaze, steadied her voice and asked “Will I be acquitted?”

As a consequence inventories across most China Eastern seaboard ports continue to be at moderate to low levels. This means total inventory is hovering below 2 million cubic metres. Outside of the normal undisciplined kiwi log suppliers flooding some ports, generally speaking we are in pretty good shape in the demand and supply stakes and we are shaping up for a continuance throughout 2013. This means the market indicator A-grade log is selling for about US$140 per cubic metre landed in China. This converts back to mid to high NZ$90 per cubic metre landed at Lyttelton or Timaru ports. This then converts back to NZ$30 — $40 stumpage for your average forest grower which starts to make harvesting worthwhile. Domestic demand and supply appear to be in relative symbiosis with most saw mills seemingly being able to source their logs at their money. Log price increases remain elusive for suppliers but some commentators have suggested there is a little squeeze upward on some lumber price segments at present. Perhaps Q3 and 4 might see some continuance of this trend ultimately falling to forest owner pockets. Frustratingly for everyone we are still getting the same log prices for like grades as we were more

than 10 years ago. Saw mill owners will argue they are getting on average less for their lumber than they were 10 years ago. The expectation is for increasing demand consequent on the Christchurch rebuild which will eventually see both sides enjoy better times in the future. Certainly owning a saw mill has not been a pathway to the rich list in good old NZ over the last 20 years if not more. We can continue to thank Pacific North West traders for not sending large volumes of log and lumber to China. We can also reflect on a Russian log supply situation which sees infrastructural challenges limiting log supply to China. Both constrained supply factors are seeing a good demand profile for NZ and Australia Pine logs. Forecasts are suggesting this situation will remain for much of 2013. New house stars in the US will be a fundamental driver in this equation. Right now we are in the Chinese New Year Holiday period. Although the official period is February 7 to 15, the close down in manufacturing spans over three weeks. This reflects many Chinese workers returning to their homes early and coming back to work late Despite the season of less manufacturing, most commentators are ambivalent with some even suggesting this slow

down was needed to allow inventories to creep back up over the 2 million cubic metre comfort level. A quick review around some Canterbury saw mills suggests demand is good and the phones are ringing with an improved consistency. Outdoors type lumber products are continuing to sell well and house framing is in hot demand. However all negotiations appear to remain around less than exciting price points with buyers quoting the ability to source material from several suppliers. At this stage we are therefore not seeing demand lift sufficiently to think about breaking out the champagne. The cost of shipping logs to Korea, China and India has generally been softening slightly, helping to generate better wharf gate prices in NZ. For the moment the trend appears to be for stability although some are suggesting we can expect firming late March and April as the northern hemisphere summer approaches. And so it appears that predictions of 30 years ago about world wood demand and supply moving toward rotational plantation forestry appear to be coming to fruition. Thus it is has never been more timely to remember the only way forward for climate, country and the planet is to get out there and plant more trees … please!

All you need to know

Wastewood grinding Your site or ours Wood Chip Supplies Dairy Conversion Cleanup

Laurie Forestry Ltd

Harvesting & Marketing, Consultants & Managers

SUPPLIERS OF FORESTRY SERVICES • Consulting & Management • Valuations • Harvesting & Management • Carbon trade & registering in the ETS Office: Phone 03 359 5000 Fax: 03 359 5099 www.laurieforestry.co.nz Email: admin@laurieforestry.co.nz Unit 3 337 Harewood Road Bishopdale Christchurch 22 Shearman Street Waimate

(and some things you don’t)

about

FARM FORESTRY

• Woodlot establishment • Aerial pre plant & release application • Aerial boron application • Boron supplies • Herbicide supplies

Andy McCord Resident forestry writer (and joke teller) for Canterbury Farming

Technical Forest Services Ltd 30 Pentecost Road Rangiora e-mail andymccord@xtra.co.nz web site www.techforest.co.nz

Office 03 313 4153 Andy 027 224 3271 Sammi 027 282 7580

Dairy

“In the field”

Pasture tips with Pasture First

February 2013

EFFLUENT POND CONSTRUCTION

by Nigel Johnston

Post emergent management of forage brassica crops With most spring sown forage brassica crops already in the ground, it is time to start thinking about correct management techniques to ensure that these valuable crops produce the maximum amount of feed required. Post emergent management is just as important as what you do before sowing as short cuts here can have detrimental effects on the crops.

Post emergent weed control Weed invasion is the single biggest factor affecting the successful establishment of a brassica crop such as kale or rape as the weeds compete for moisture, fertility and light.

couch, paspalum and other summer grasses.

Post emergent insect control Immediately after emergence springtails can be an issue, as these will feed on the new brassica seedlings as they emerge. It is important to monitor the crop for any sign of springtails and apply an insecticide such as Chlorpyrifos if noted. Application of insecticides to control other pests such as Diamondback Moth, Cabbage White Butterfly, Aphids and Leaf Miner should be applied in about December/January to

• Save you time and money • Give you environmental protection • Reduce the risk of effluent non-compliance • Be more effective in utilisation of nutrients and water

phosphate and synthetic pyrethroid insecticides on the market to control the above insects, but care should be taken to rotate the use of these to avoid insect resistance.

Liner options include Clay, GCL and HDPE

For a free no-obligation quote call

Kerry Bartlett (Jacko) on 0275 746 803

Post emergent urea applications

• Dairy Conversions • Water Storage Ponds • Stock Races • Siteworks • Underpasses • Track Maintenance • Driveways / Landscaping • Forestry • Tree Removal • Border Dyking • Bulk Earthworks • Screening

Post emergent applications of urea is critical to maximise crop production. The first application of urea should be applied at ‘canopy closure’ when the brassica leaves cover all the dirt. This will generally be about four to six weeks after sowing. At this time urea should be applied at about 80-120kg/

Post emergent weed control should be done approximately three to six weeks following emergence of the crop or when the crop reaches about the fourth leaf stage (this can vary for different crops). There are a range of herbicides available to control most major broad leaf weeds and grasses. Common broad leaf weeds in brassicas include fathen, black nightshade, thorn apple, red root, fumitory, spurrey, thistles and willow weed. Common grass weeds include

We will design and construct your effluent pond from start to finish and:

p 0800 773 2002 m 0275 746 803 e jacko@paulsmithearthmoving.co.nz www.paulsmithearthmoving.co.nz

To advertise in Canterbury Farming

Please call 03 347 2314 or email sales@canfarm.co.nz coincide with the emergence of these insects. Repeat applications of insecticides may be required through the life of the crop depending on the frequency of insect attack. There is a range of Organo-

ha. This should be enough to sustain nitrogen levels for the duration of shorter term brassica crops such as turnips or rape, but for winter brassica crops such as kale repeat applications may be needed.

Get your Pivot Tracks fixed right, first time! • Most economical and fastest way to repair pivot tracks • Reduce repair and maintenance on pivots and fences • Create a safer working environment for you and your employees • Complete job from excavating gravel to rolling down pivot tracks • Gravel screening is also available

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Dairy

February 2013

Hoof Print With Fred Hoekstra

To push or not to push? As I have been talking with people over the years about lame cows, I realise that some people interpret the things that I am saying incorrectly.

Use Waikari Lime Rubble for your cows dairy lane •Reduce the number of lame cows •Reduce amount of manure in dairy shed •Reduce travel time to & from dairy shed HARBOURS NO BACTERIA SO CAN HELP IMPROVE HOOF CONDITION Waikari Lime Rubble is lighter and goes further than competing lane rock products

Some people think that I disregard pushing cows as a cause of lameness. Sometimes I get farmers or managers telling me that I am not to tell their staff that they can push their cows. This is interesting because I have never told anyone that they can push their cows and not have any consequences to deal with. I have told people that I believe that IF cows had 100% healthy feet you could push them as hard as you like over a rough track and it would not cause them to go lame. What I mean by this is that a cow’s hoof is constructed in such a way that it is strong enough to handle stones and twisting on concrete, and any other physical force it has to put up with on our farms. The thing is, all the cows that I have trimmed over the years (which would be easily over 100,000 cows) have had

some degree of haemorrhaging in their hooves. This is from the first cow coming off the platform for a maintenance trim to the lamest cow to beef cows. All of them have some degree of haemorrhage in their hooves. The haemorrhage in itself is not a problem for the cow. Most cows walk just fine, but what

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the haemorrhage tells you is that the live tissue that grows the hoof is not as healthy as it can be. Admittedly, with some cows you will really need to look hard for the haemorrhage but, never-the-less, it is there. In other words, if our cows HAVE

NOT got healthy hooves — they start off with a handicap. Now the actual argument is: Does the haemorrhage come from the inside out due to an unhealthy corium or is it caused by physical force from the outside in? I am convinced that the haemorrhage comes from an unhealthy corium due to diet and stress, and that stones and twisting on concrete cause none or very little haemorrhaging. I don’t believe that we can, or even should, farm our cows in

such a way that they don’t have any haemorrhaging, and I can explain that some other time, but the point I would like to make here is that because we have cows with hooves that are less than 100% healthy, we can’t afford to put too much physical force on them. I am all for relaxed milking and no pressure on the cows either on the track or in the yard. Failing to do so will only aggravate a problem that is already there, but minimising the physical aspect of lameness isn’t enough. What I am trying to do is give you more accurate information so you can make better management decisions. There are plenty of theories out there that are based on gut feelings and ideas but are simply just not true. Any time you make a ‘truth’ claim you should ask yourself, how do I know? If your answer is ‘because somebody told me’, you would be wise not to push that point too hard because another person may have an argument against yours and be able to back it up with solid evidence. So, if you make a claim that a cow standing on a stone may end up with a bruise, or a cow twisting on concrete may get white line separation, or a stone can penetrate into a hoof, then, my question to you is: “How do you know? What evidence have you got to back those claims up?” If you have solid evidence for your claims, then I would love to hear from you! If you don’t have solid evidence, are you brave enough to change your thinking?

TO ORDER:

Murray Taylor 03 314 7254 or 0274 323 250

If you’re reading this Then so are your customers To advertise in the Canterbury Farming please call 03 347 2314 or email sales@canfarm.co.nz

Concrete Water/Feed Troughs • Septic Tanks • Silage Pits • Water Tanks / Effluent Tanks • Concrete Bunkers • Pump / Agri-Chemical / Killing Sheds For any quotes or enquiries contact us on 03 308 4816 or call into the yard at 205 Wilkins Rd, Tinwald Ashburton. email: info@hanhamconcrete.co.nz

• Underpasses • Box Culverts • Dairy Lanes

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ring Morgan:

027 203 3587 or 03 313 1232 after hours, or

alternatively, online at www.nativesolutions.co.nz

Dairy

Soil Matters — with Peter Burton What we can learn from the clover root weevil With the gap steadily closing between the cost of producing a kilogramme of milk solids and the amount of money received, the arrival of the clover root weevil this season is unwelcome. Healthy clover in a permanent clover rye grass pasture is capable of fixing more than enough nitrogen for the production of 18,000+ kilogrammes of dry matter annually. In the short term applying fertiliser nitrogen seems the only logical solution to the damage caused by the root weevil. A severe root weevil infestation may effectively reduce the amount of clover fixed nitrogen by as much as 90%. This suggests that a little in excess of 200kgN/ha should be applied to maintain normal pasture production. Urea, the cheapest form of fertiliser nitrogen, is currently $745.00+GST/tonne ex store, which means the cost of 200kgN is $323.91+GST. That’s a cost of $48,586.95 for 150ha without the cost of cartage and spreading, roughly the price of a new ute.

A keen trout fishing neighbour remarked recently that if only he could interrogate the trout he catches he could catch a lot more. Although it would be useful to communicate directly with clover root weevil it’s not necessary in order to know why they are currently attacking clover in dairy pasture.

It’s not all clover that is dealt to and it’s not just clover in dairy pasture that is affected. Weevil’s don’t know what type of animal is grazing the pasture, so it’s not a problem specific to pastures grazed by dairy animals. The factor common to most intensive dairy farming is the use of nitrogen fertiliser. In our view regular fertiliser nitrogen always precedes damage by pests. In pasture the role of pests is to ensure that weakened plants

Fresh Feed to your Farm

are not able to grow to maturity and produce seed, — only the strongest survive which is why not all clover is damaged. Clovers flourish in pastures as plant available nitrogen declines, hence the application of fertiliser nitrogen reduces the reason for their existence. The plants that do survive struggle to compete with grass for

moisture, nutrient, and sunlight, and therefore become the target of both flea and weevil. Conversely reducing the amount of nitrogen applied and lifting plant available calcium will bring about resurgence in the amount of clover in the sward. Clovers contain up to four times the calcium of rye grasses, just one of the reasons that animals grazing clover dominant pasture produce more and grow more rapidly than stock grazing other species.

February 2013

Not only is extra calcium beneficial it is important that it becomes available to plants as they require it. This work is largely done by fungi, bacteria and worms, and the beneficial ones thrive in a calcium rich environment. DoloZest, made by ESI using Golden bay Dolomite is available throughout the South Island. It contains both calcium and magnesium along with a wide range of selected soil friendly fungi and bacteria and has been applied over the last eight years to intensive dairy and grazing properties throughout both islands.

NZ’s Finest Magnesium Fertiliser

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For a delivered price, call 0800 4 Dolomite

0800 436 566

Measures from six properties from September to December in 2006 using DoloZest based nutrient programmes showed they contained twice as much clover compared to pasture from six properties using conventional nitrogen driven systems. The percentage of the clover in the pasture from the conventional properties averaged 13% over the four months with 27% clover content in the pastures using DoloZest based programmes. Not only is the clover content higher in properties applying DoloZest, but damage by clover flea and weevil is limited to such an extent that less than 20kgN/ha is required to grow in excess of 18 tonne of pasture in a twelve month period.

Arrive Alive

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• Soil Mobile units specialising in Dairy and Calf meal. Large roller mill and hammer mill available. Additives can be supplied and mixed or blended with molasses if required. We fill your silos or supply it to you bagged.

FEEDMI Ltd Dave Campion. Ph 03 308 8665 | 027 608 6455 www.feedmix.co.nz

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Dairy

February 2013

Control Without Chemicals – Fat-hen

by Dr tim Jenkins

Fat-hen (Chenopodium album) was once a major crop in Europe both for the fresh shoots and also the tiny grains. The shoots are tasty and lack bitterness as long as the plant is picked early but the leaves wilt so quickly it lost favour once market gardening really established in medieval Europe. I’ve still seen it in some of the farmers markets of Italy though (see photo). Harvesting the grains lost favour once easier grain crops were available. A hassle with fat-hen grains is the need to

soak out the anti-bird-feeding bitter saponins. Fat-hen can be an indicator of fertile soil and of high soil nitrogen level. But of course it also generally takes advantage of bare soil and copes with reasonably dry conditions better than many other plants, weeds included. As an annual plant, it is always dependent on growth

Fat-hen for sale at an italian farmers market

from

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A single well established plant can easily have tens of thousands of seed that fall to

the ground close by. Ideally avoid letting the plants set seed. Even small stunted plants in dry soil can produce seed, so be vigilant. After two or three years of avoiding seed set you will start to notice a real difference in how much easier annual weeds like fat-hen are to handle. The bad news is that a portion of the seed can be dormant for as long as around 15 years so it may be a while before an area is completely clear. Get fat-hen while it’s young and easier to hoe. Part of your crop rotation strategy should be to vary the timing

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of crops in an area. A crop like broadbean harvested in mid to late spring will mean being able to clear a flush of fat-hen seedlings when the ground comes clear. Seriously consider a false seed bed (prepare bed as if ready to sow, even irrigate as required, then control the subsequent flush of young weeds without disturbing the soil too much — under high weed pressure, repeat again) to remove the weed threat to your subsequent crop. A strong cover crop can smother fat-hen effectively as long as it establishes well so try a false seed bed first to have a better start. If fathen has got away on you in a big patch and set seed, an option can be to inversion plough to avoid a huge pressure next season. If the area is ploughed again (within the next ten or fifteen years), fat-hen pressure can come back to haunt you with slowly germinating seed. In that case don’t use a false seed bed; you’re better off establishing a fast crop like spinach, radish, rocket or Asian brassicas to harvest before the old fat-hen seed gets

a chance to cause a problem. In high fat-hen seed load areas, choose crops which have a fast establishing strong canopy eg potatoes and the European brassicas. One or two well-timed weedings (or mouldings for spuds) prior to canopy closure should take care of fat-hen. Take out any individual fathen survivors before they set seed within the maturing crop. Fat-hen is edible for stock also so can be grazed to prevent large scale seed set when a crop is finished; but make hay or straw available to reduce the potential for dietary scours from a diet rich in fat-hen.

a fully branched mature fat-hen plant

Dairy

February 2013

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every dairy farmer should have ADFâ&#x20AC;? Michael and Nicky Loe, along with sharemilkers Garth and Liz Campbell, hosted an Open Day in December at their Bankside dairy farm to showcase their experiences with their ADF milking system. The Open Day, jointly organised by ADF Milking and local dealers Laser Electrical, attracted over 40 interested dairy farmers from the mid-CanterburyÂ region. The ADF (automatic dipping and flushing) milking system aims to reduce mastitis and its spread amongst the herd by automatically spraying the cowsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; teats while the cups are still on the udder, directly after milking, while the teat canal is still open. After removal every liner is automatically sanitised. Within only 20 seconds from the end of milking, the cluster is ready for the nextÂ cow. Prior to installing ADF, Michael had learned about the revolutionary system from their neighbour who already had it installed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We were converting our sheep, beef and cropping farm so I did some investigation. To me it was a no-brainer that when building a dairy shed that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d put ADF in. We went to an open day in the region in 2011 to see it in action and that confirmed for us that we had to put itÂ in.â&#x20AC;? Craig Kelly from ADF describes the ADF process at an Open Day in December. Supplied by ATS.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;And so we were more than happy to host an open day for others to see theÂ benefits.

When I was initially thinking about building our dairy shed I thought that udder health was a just a small thing. Now I know that it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. ADF makes life in the shed so much easier and it really does look after the health of the cows. The teats are well looked after â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the release of the cups from the udder is gentle and the iodine is applied at the right time â&#x20AC;&#x201D; immediately after milking when the teat canal isÂ open. Our mastitis results have been excellent with cell counts hovering in the 80,000â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 110,000Â range. And the support from local installers Laser Electrical has been excellent â&#x20AC;&#x201D; they are always approachable, good at explaining things and getting onto any issuesÂ promptly. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m rapt with ADF â&#x20AC;&#x201D; I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t rate it highly enough. Every dairy farmer should haveÂ it.â&#x20AC;? Visit ADF at South Island Field Days on 20â&#x20AC;&#x201C;22 March 2013 or arrange a farm visit by contacting ADFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s South Island Sales Manager, Nigel Wilson, on 0274 233 645. www.adfmilking.com.

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February 2013

Johne's Disease

by andy Bryenton

As a PhD-level advocate of animal health working to eradicate a deadly illness, you would expect Solis Norton to be found in a white lab coat, peering into a microscope in a university laboratory.

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ut instead, the young scientist and technology transfer specialist is more often seen in gumboots, out on the land talking to farmers and helping them tackle the threat of Johne’s disease. Solis began his university studies with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural science — a firm grounding in the biology and technology which drives the New Zealand economy’s biggest sector. He followed on to specialise in applied science, and then refined his focus even further into the field of veterinary epidemiology — the study of how disease works in populations of animals, rather than individuals. But a twist in his PhD project from tuberculosis to Johne's disease sent his career on a new track — engaging him at the forefront of the fight against a disease

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which robs New Zealand agriculture of many millions of dollars every year. As one of only two PhD-level Johne’s disease epidemiology specialists in New Zealand, this is a vital and productive role. Solis says that Johne’s disease is a bacterial infection of the gut and affects all ruminants, commonly cattle, sheep and deer. A major source of productivity loss, it's also stressful on animals and farmers alike. But the Deer Industry has really gone toe to toe with it and made great progress. Solis is the Project Manager for Johne's Management Limited (JML). JML is the Deer Industry's science based, profit lead nation-wide programme to manage and reduce the incidence of this incurable ailment. In the past the disease has had devastating impacts on deer farming across New Zealand. “Deer have only

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February 2013

recently been domesticated for farming and probably weren't exposed to the same animal health challenges in the wild. So today's intensive farming systems are learning a lot about managing deer herd health and maximising their production.” He says: “In the past, Johne’s disease was one of the biggest animal health costs to the Deer Industry with some farms particularly severely affected. But we get far fewer severe cases now — general management is much better, people talk openly about managing it, and the message from our Johne's Consultant Network veterinarians is getting through.” Management is indeed the key to control, and tailor made on-farm Risk Management Plans being rolled out nationwide by JML's Johne's Consultant Network veterinarians are proving a powerful tool in combating the illness. Currently about 20 percent of farmed deer are supported by the JML programme, a number

noting that the disease is simply a part of nature, like the deer themselves. “It’s us (JML, Johne's Consultant Network vets and farmers) united against nature's less desirable, less profitable side.” Thanks to his efforts, and those of scientists like him at the Disease Research Laboratory at Otago University, Massey University, and AgResearch, Johnes disease is looking less like a

Deer Industry ‘dealbreaker’ and more like the manageable medical issue that it is. This puts the Deer Industry at the forefront of world action in managing the disease and sets an exceptional precedent in New Zealand agriculture — due in no small part to JML and Solis’ role within the company. As to the future, Solis would initially like to see all deer farmers signed up to a robust whole-herd

“Farmers should see clinical cases of Johne's disease drop by at least half each year they follow their Risk Management Plan,” says Solis. “The best case scenario is faster still.” This means that losses, which have reached as high as $100,000 per year on some farms, are greatly

curtailed. Solis works hard to link affected farms with their local Johne's Consultant Network veterinarian, so they can discuss each farming operation in detail and develop a Risk Management Plan that suits each farmer's management, resources, and goals. "And it doesn't stop there" Solis says, "the plans are dynamic, they change to suit the times and they fit as part of an overall deer herd health plan to optimise production." “I’m here to help farmers, not to pass judgement or say things are right or wrong,” he says,

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health plan for their deer, sustainable growth of the whole industry would surely to follow. “And I think the next really big drive is balancing productivity, efficiency and sustainability for deer farming and New Zealand agriculture in general,” he says. We've made big gains with animal health working on Johne’s disease, but it's only one part of ensuring long term profit for deer farmers.

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which has doubled in the last twelve months. And while there is no simple cure for Johne's disease, a Risk Management Plan incorporating vets, farmers, and JML together is slashing death rates and boosting industry confidence.

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February 2013

And The Winner Is… To be COTY the Just before Christmas, my wife and I attended vehicle had to be substantively all new and released in 2012. a glitzy function on Auckland’s waterfront Category winners were hosted by the AA and the Motoring Writers taken from all available New Guild to announce the winner of the Car of the Zealand new vehicles. The Category results and judges Year (COTY) and the Category winners. order yourquick unit comments:

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toyota 86 Car of the year

Small Car — Suzuki Swift ‘Suzuki designers produced a car that is fun to drive, safe and affordable to own’.

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Compact Car — Ford Focus ‘Focus offers sharp handling with brisk performance and a level of quality beyond that which a compact car is entitled to provide’.

Medium Car — BMW 3 Series ‘Modern looks of the 3-series gives it the road presence it deserves’.

Large Car — Skoda Superb ‘Superb is innovative, practical and it has a well thought out design which makes it a car that is hard to beat’.

Luxury Car — BMW 5 Series ‘The 5 redefines the benchmark in this sector with its top notch build quality, classic BMW lines and outstanding driving dynamics’.

Small/Medium SUV — Mazda CX5 ‘Leads the pack with its KODO — Soul of motion — design cues and futuristic SKYACTIV technology’.

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Large SUV — BMW X5 ‘X5 offers elegant looks and a dynamic driving experience’.

Sports/Performance — Toyota 86 ‘Sporty 86 has sublime handling and is quick enough to be entertaining’.

Utility — Ford Ranger ‘Ranger is big and tough and delivers exceptional road comfort’.

Safety Award — BMW 3-Series Scored the highest overall score in the ANCAP new car crash assessment during 2012. ‘BMW doesn’t disappoint and keeps the vehicle’s occupant safety on top of its priority list’.

And the overall award: New Zealand Car of the Year — Toyota 86 ‘The Toyota 86 is a fantastic, affordable, rear wheel drive, spacious sports coupe. It provides a high level of performance and safety, and starting at $41,986 it is very good value for money’. I had driven all of the winner and contenders most of which have appeared last year in this column.

WHeeLs

February 2013 the Hokianga Harbour though the 60l tank on the diesel was reading just shy of three quarters left. The next day heading back to Auckland down the east coast and the beautiful Bay of Islands we missed Whangarei and drove largely on unsealed roads, coating the cars in a film of dust, while displaying the competence on almost any surface. Still we managed 7.9l/100km in the petrol 3 litre and 5.1l/100km in the diesel for the 900km sojourn.

safest Car of the year BMW 3 series

So here we feature the 86 and the 3 Series Toyota 86 Alistair Davies MD at Toyota NZ said in accepting the COTY “it’s been a long time between drinks, twenty years since the Corona won back in 92”. Equally it has been ages since we have had a sports car from Toyota. Long gone are the Supra, the Celica and more recently the MR 2 and rear driven Corollas including the 86! Toyota’s first sports car came in the early 60s, the 2000 GT which featured in the Bond film ‘You Only Live Twice’ starring Sean Connery who was too tall for the hardtop. It was the only version available, so Toyota re-engineered it, as seen in the film as a convertible. Today a 2000 GT could be worth $500,000! Interestingly the 2000GT was developed in conjunction with Yamaha who knew a thing or two about making fast machines. A parallel exists with the 86 half a century later as it is a joint development with Subaru who among other things provide the motor. If you lift the hood of an 86 you find the signature Boxer four (1998cc DOHC VVT 147kW 205Nm ) residing low and proudly bearing the name Subaru. Subaru now markets a twin to the 86 known as the BRZ. I don’t usually get offered sports cars though get the odd drive at race courses occasionally. As a member of the Guild and judge for the COTY we (the guild) had discussed what vehicles might be contenders for the awards and the 86 was high on the list. So I rang Toyota NZ and asked for one to drive for a week. They agreed and I’m glad I did for it is quite simply stunning, if you enjoy driving. Not only is it quick (0-100 in 6.9 sec) and handles well on wet or dry seal on the open road, it also is very comfortable, for the front seat occupants. It is set up with 6 airbags climate air Bluetooth and entertainment from AM/FM MP3 USB and CD

controlled from the wheel as is the familiar Cruise control. Two in the front are well catered for while the rear seats are — well, just treat it as a two seater and you won’t be disappointed. A clever touch is the one piece backseat rear that folds down, from the well shaped large boot, for a completely flat area to the front seats, that would easily accommodate say 5 packs of 10 waratah posts, so you can tell the accountant it’s a ‘farm truck’!

Winning the Safest Car Award, the 3 is well equipped, stylish and significantly

more spacious than its predecessor. Priced at $74,700 for the auto diesel and $106,900 for the top dog 335 they are part of a six model range that also includes a 2 litre petrol 320i and a 2 litre turbo petrol 328, all available in three different equipment levels in both 6 speed manual and 8 speed auto with paddle shift. BMW won 4 of the 11 awards as judged by all 33 of New Zealand’s accredited motoring journalists and the 3 is an excellent example of why. It is at home on the track, in town or country and on most road surfaces.

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Starting at $41,986 for a 6 speed manual it will win many friends. I drove the mid range GT 6 speed auto with paddle shift at $61,486 recognised by the huge rear wing.

BMW 3 Series I drove the 3 at the Taupo race track and wound the 335, 3 litre straight six RWD 225kw stormer up to over 200km/h with ease. Loved the sound, particularly on deceleration, tested the sharp hairpin at ridiculous speed using the throttle to balance the exit and revelled in the experience. What I didn’t get to do was to drive on real world roads. So once again I rang, this time, BMW and chatted about organising a drive while I was in Auckland at the end of October last year. They came back to me with an overnighter including three other South Island journo’s who also hadn’t sampled the delights of the latest 3. We duly headed north out of the big smoke in a white 2 litre diesel 320d and the black 335, hugging the western side of the island using back roads and the state highways. Driving through the majestic Waipoua forest was fun with tight turns and steep uphill and down sections allowing maximum testing of the very responsive taut chassis and suspension. Turning off the traction control as we did on the track, showed the responsiveness of the engine on both the petrol and more surprisingly the diesel which was both the price leader and the pick of the two for everyday motoring. We filled the 335 at the overnight stop on

Liability and Insurance. The recent Canterbury fires are a timely reminder to check our insurance cover on everything we own — not just our property, buildings, contents, machinery, hay, etc — but what about any rural fire liability where a fire may have started on your property or burnt across it and into a neighbouring property? Are you covered for any claims from your neighbour’s property losses? Fires in rural areas are the responsibility of the person who lights them. Even the costs of fighting fires in rural areas can be passed on to the landowner or the person who caused the fire, even if they obtained a permit. Are you covered for this? It is the responsibility of the local fire authority to decide on any cost recovery action. The costs of fighting fires in rural areas passed on to the individual responsible have run in to $100,000’s. It is important that all landowners assess the risk of a fire starting on their land and consider — as well as fire insurance on property and plant — having both fire fighting and public liability cover. Accidental fires can occur and it is prudent for rural landowners to have adequate insurance cover.

Fire Seasons. Do you know what fire season it is in your area at any given time? There are 3 types: Open Fire Season — means no permit is needed to light a fire in the open air in rural areas. Restricted Fire Season — means a fire permit from the relevant fire authority is required to light a fire in the open air in rural areas. Prohibited Fire Season — means a total fire ban and the lighting of fires in the open air is not allowed. If you are in doubt, check with your local rural fire authority — usually your city or district council, the Department of Conservation or the Ministry of Defence. If you do require a permit, make sure you read, understand and keep to the permit conditions.

• What is the weather forecast? — Have you got an adequate firebreak? • Make sure the fire is supervised at all times. • Remain in attendance until the fire is completely out. Continue to check the fire-ground to ensure that it is properly out. But remember, a permit is not a defence against claims of damage or costs which may arise from a fire. The responsibility for its control and any liability which may arise lies with the person lighting the fire. It is still very dry out there, the Northern South Island Rural Fire Committee asks that you all be aware of the fire danger and type of fire season in your area and take care on your properties. Check harvesting and other machinery before use. Maintain a defensible space around houses and buildings by maintaining a set-back between the building and vegetation (trees, shrubs, and long grass). Ideally keep this space watered and green if possible. If you have any questions, check with your local fire authority. Remember — Don’t start a fire you cannot stop. For rural fire emergencies — DIAL 111

WooL

February 2013

Wool Perspective From Rob Cochrane GM, Procurement, PGG Wrightson Wool

Wool prices ease slightly but demand steady After closing the 2012 calendar year on a very healthy level, the wool market welcomed the 2013 year with a slight hesitancy before lifting markedly in mid-January. The sudden spike in prices (pretty much across the board) was unexpected and created some concern amongst the trade that a similar fall would follow. Since that time and along with the larger volumes of wool coming forward to the auction arena, market prices have generally eased slightly as buyers have been more selective, however general demand has remained steady at recent sales with only a few finer crossbred types obviously less sought after.

Combing wool prices maintained their strength at auctions on the ‘west island’ (Australia) during January and early February, a trend which was mirrored at south island auctions as limited quantities of, in particular, good Corriedale and Halfbred types were available to the export trade.

Woolshed servicing

Fleece wools in the 28 to 29 micron ranges drew very good support, dependant of course on actual micron measurements, length and style. Some of the similarly bred lines (but obviously finer in micron) of lambs wool also drew hot competition during the month with several lines

selling particularly well, according to PGG Wrightson Wool auctioneers. Crossbred wool types traded at levels within a narrow price range throughout January finishing at a touch below 400 cents per kilogram clean for 37 micron fleece, and just under 390 cents for 39 micron. Stronger fleece wool measuring 40 microns or coarser was (as predicted) difficult to sell ending the month at somewhere around 370 cents per kilogram clean. Lambs’ wool was dependant on micron but finer crossbred lambs sold at levels into the mid 500 cents range with coarser lambs fetching in the mid 400 cents range.

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If there is any good news for wool producers, it is that almost every staple of wool is saleable and at present the industry does not have any significant stock-piles of wool unsold, whether it be in greasy or scoured form. Demand appears relatively steady compared

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TO DISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENTS, ON FARM - IN YOUR SHED: Rakaia River North - Don Kars 0274 500 769 Rakaia River South - Gavin Crump 0274 316 555 Email: kaiapoi@hdfarmdirect.co.nz Website: www.hdfarmdirect.co.nz

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to the past year with many manufacturers preferring to source New Zealand wool whenever possible, but along with that demand comes the requirement for quality. As most sheep farmers are facing a substantially tougher year than last in regard to lamb and mutton values, it is imperative that wool production is maximised and wool preparation in the wool shed is also taken seriously. Buyers are often critical of wool clips which are poorly prepared at this time of the year (or at any time of year for that matter), particularly those full wool clips which will contain cotting and in some cases extreme tenderness. If wools are generally free grown then it is very important to remove any cotted points from otherwise good fleece wool to ensure that you do in fact attract maximum interest from exporters. Second-shear types and lambs’ wool must have short and discoloured seconds removed to ensure maximum competition in the auction room and to meet contract requirements. What may seem like a costly effort in the wool shed by employing an extra rousie, could in fact pay for itself very quickly and put a few more dollars into the bank to help pay for other necessary costs associated with the sheep operation. That’s my view.

February 2013

Preventing facial eczema

Rob Cope-Williams gets ...

Tourism verses farming An interesting comment from a chap who was very involved with tourism over the holiday break — he said: ‘Isn’t it a shame that the Government can’t, or won’t, turn the McKenzie Country into some sort of reserve to keep the land as it was for the tourists’.

Central Otago has turned their arid areas into successful wine growing areas and built a wonderful story around that.

That opened up quite a conversation as you’d expect with me backing production of food for export and him backing tourist money coming inwards.

lupins that have taken hold in the river beds and along the side of the road and in fact embraced their arrival with the enthusiasm of a child hearing Mr Whippy’ s ice cream truck.

But it is a thought, however innocent at its inception.

When you look at it, the arrival of dairying in that area is as much a story as the advent of the hydro power construction. If you were a purist you’d be very grumpy about the canals and lakes spoiling what was there, and yet the fish farms and recreation areas wouldn’t exist without it.

So South Canterbury, put some sizzle with your sausage and come up with a really good story about how your back blocks went from being the haven for sheep rustlers, through the wool boom and serious sheep runs, stir in the romance of the pioneers battling climate, rabbits and isolation, and that now as the world teeters on the edge of having to produce mind blowing volumes of food, this barren and harsh land is being adapted to fill the void.

With the right PR dairying in a high country area where it is very hot in summer and goes under snow in the winter must be a story in itself, let alone the fact that water comes from miles away to irrigate the pastures.

Wow, nestled under the majestic Southern Alps, the milk produced here is the purist you can get anywhere in the world because of the crystal clear water the cows drink and the purity of the air they breathe.

When dairying was first suggested in the McKenzie basin with the concept of a huge housing shed being built, all hell broke loose. Those against the proposal introduced the term crates and the battle was lost as the general public went up in arms. Dairying has since become established there and I admit that the wonderful wide vista of tussock and native grasses turning into green irrigated dairy pasture doesn’t totally fit. Most

people

love

the

They still retain their reputation for growing some of the best stone fruit in the world and intertwine the gold rush history throughout the whole scenario.

Facial Eczema is a disease caused by fungal spores from the fungus Pithomyces chartarum that produce a toxin which when ingested by cattle can lead to the damage of liver and bile ducts. This fungus (FE) can cause lower milk production and occasionally death from liver damage. The damaged liver is unable to rid the body of wastes and the breakdown product of chlorophyll build up in the body causing sensitivity to sunlight, which can then lead to inflammation of the skin. The first signs of FE usually show up as a drop in milk production soon after the intake of toxic spores (sub clinical FE), other signs may include cows being restless at milking time, seeking shade and licking their udder. As facial eczema becomes more obvious, another drop in milk production may be seen and exposed un-pigmented skin may thicken and peel, especially prone are the white areas on cattle, teats and udder and inside the hind legs may also be affected. It is important to remember that not all animals may show physical signs of clinical facial eczema, but some may have had liver damage occur (sub clinical FE). Facial Eczema spores are produced when minimum grass temperature are above 12° for two or three nights and humidity is usually high, this can occur in the months (January to May). The fungus grows on soft matter in the base of the pasture, so hard grazing during this

period of increased spore activity may also increase the risk of spore uptake by cattle. Prevention should start early with Zinc treatment, ideally two to three weeks before the spore growth danger period, for the most beneficial protection. One product that is suitable is Zinc 50 from Vetpak, it is a free flowing Zinc Oxide 50% liquid suspension to aid in the treatment and prevention of Facial Eczema in cattle and sheep, and is ideally suited for drenching or adding through an inline water medication system. Zinc 50 is suitable for long term daily dosing until the pasture to be grazed is safe from fungal spores. Zinc 50 has a nil milk withhold period and is suitable for dairy cows. Zinc 50 is available from your local veterinarian. Another product in the Vetpak stable is Green Apple Flavouring, which is a ready to use liquid flavour additive designed to mask unpleasant tastes such as Zinc Oxide. Green Apple can be added to drinking water, dry feed or mineral drenches such as Zinc Oxide or Magnesium Sulphate/Chlorides and this makes it an ideal partner when using Zinc products to treat Facial Eczema. Green Apple Flavouring and Zinc 50 are both available from your local veterinarian.

February 2013

Rural Market Place RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL

Need us now?

• Heat Pumps • Garden Lighting • House Re-wire • Kitchen Re-fits • Spa Pool Installation • Telephone Extensions • Shop Fitting • New Builds/Extensions

Greg’s Mobile: 021 22 77 275 Ph: 379 6644 Fax: 379 6645 PO Box 7778, Sydenham Christchurch 8240

B S

LTD

Phil Hobson

Best Water Solutions

• •

FREEPHONE us today!

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Y CALL US FREE TODA

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pstown 491 St Asaph St Philli C H R CHRISTCHU 8 phone 03 381 221

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Authorised Mitsubishi Installers

www.aelectrical.co.nz

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027 663 9961

Contact Lori 03 689 6026 • lori.k@clear.net.nz

Daly Water Wells

Independent Distributor ID#5761950

email: dalywaterwells@hotmail.com

Tree Clearance – Prices Slashed!! Evergreen and deciduous trees 1m to 3m tall!

Hurry! First come, first served!

$5.75 each

Offer valid while stocks last.

Bring in this ad to qualify

See our website for more details 851 Waterholes Road, Templeton

Open Sat 9am–12noon Mon–Fri 8am–4.30pm

Tel: 03 349 4582 Email: info@kiwiflora.co.nz

www.kiwiflora.co.nz

Waitohi

After hours 03 329 5625

ROOFING

allroofs.co.nz

• Repairs • Painting • Flexi Pointing

• Re-Roofing • Restoration • Moss removal

PH: 366 4141 SPOUTING 2 U

timber Town & Country Timbers

Supply and inStall or Supply only

Sheep GratinG Fence StakeS h4 Fence DropperS Dropper h3.2 Farm SheD timber Sheep YarD timber Suppliers to CRT

26 Crombie Road, RD25 Temuka Phone: 03 615 9343

Dog Training Products SportDOG remote trainers.

Anti-Bark Collars and Containment systems. Trainers with up to 1.6 kms range and can work up to 6 collars. Completely waterproof and rechargeable.

Sales@innotek.co.nz For a free brochure call

0800 872 546 www.innotek.co.nz or Ph 0274 935 444

ARE YOU UP TO THE

CHALLENGE? IF SO, THEN

WE NEED

YOU

We are expanding our sales division, due to our community focus and belief in the NZ economy. What you can bring: • Enthusiasm – heaps of it; actually you need truckloads! • The ability to build relationships – it’s true, some of your clients will become great friends. • Great communications skills and the ability to work as part of a team… Okay, so not just someone who can yak and socialise, but actually empathise with clients and commit to your workmates. WE arE oFFEring: • Opportunity – We are going places and we’ll take you with us! • Stability – our growth has been through the roof. • Ongoing Training – we know we can always learn more – and we’ll teach you! If you think you can keep pace with us (If you can then you will already know it…), then call in the first instance – we are local and we want your first contact with us to be easy – and we’ll all work out if we’re a good fit for each other.

All insurance work – snow damage included Free quotes • 10YR guarantee on all our workmanship

Call Danie 021 875 462 03 980 2865 / 03 344 5744 www.spouting2u.co.nz

0800 466 793 info@nsmm.co.nz Do you have what it takes to accept our challenge?

February 2013

FARM VEHICLES & MACHINERY HUGE GREENHOUSE FOR UNDER $2000.00

• Cutting mowing time since 1987 • Models from 30” to 72”

• Powered blower grass catchers • Dealers nationwide

! frame m u i in ! n alum carbonate o e e t poly aran ! rs gu ee on t a n e y a r 5 onate a b u r g a c V  1 y rs U pol 0 yea alled w e l  1 oub mm d  6

NEALL W

PRICES DO NOT INCLUDE GST

2012 TRX500 MANUAL

“EVERYTHING NEW FROM BULLBAR TO TOWBAR”

 Huge 20ft (6x29mL x 2.6mW x 2.58m(H) greenhouse  Aluminium powder coated (green) frame  UV resistant double sided polycarbonate walls & roof  Wide opening double sliding door  Fully adjustable roof vent

0800

$1,895.00

Also available, a full range of tractor mounted machinery for the farm & lifestyle block.

GST inclusive

743366 RIDEON

Lifestyle Tractors & Machinery Ltd Ph. 03-347-4956 • Mob. 0274 770 070 Email. tractors@lifestyletractors.co.nz Web. www.lifestyletractors.co.nz

www.dixonmowers.co.nz enquiries@dixonmowers.co.nz

MOWERS

FROM

$6,US5GS9T0 PL

NEW

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0800 38 44 50

$ • • • •

Power Steer (optional) Fuel Injected Adjustable suspension 10% more power

+GST

,905$14,755 FPM

• 6% more torque • Improved fuel economy • Water cooled

Rangiora Motorcycles 10 Albert St Ph 03 313 4593 Kevin a/h 027 4361 974 www.rangioramotorcycles.co.nz

FARM 4X4 F

ZERO TURN

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Low Maintenance Cost Demo from authorised dealers

MORE RANGE NEW AC MOTOR

■ Range up to 70km ■ Top speed 45kmh ■ Hi/low ratio ■ Quiet motion ■ Plug-in recharge

0800 38 44 50

FARM, LIFESTYLE & VITICULTURE EQUIPMENT SPECIALISTS SALES + SPARES + SERVICE + HIRE + FINANCE

NEW MACHINERY IN STOCK VEE RAKES – Buy now and save! PADDONS 10 & 12 reel V-Rakes ........................................................... From .....$15,290 TONUTTI 12 & 14 reel V-Rakes ............................................................. From .....$18,990 DISC MOWERS – Last chance at special prices! REECE 2400 2.4m 6 disc mower c/w hyd lift ............................Was $12,995 .....$11,990 KRONE AM283 2.8m 7 disc mower c/w hyd lift .......................Was $16,650 .....$15,990 CULTIVATION/SOWING/FEED OUT GEAR – Phone now for your special deal! USED MACHINERY IN STOCK KVERNELAND NG 3.0m Power Harrow c/w packer roller...................................$10,999 SIMBA 1B 14’ offset trailing discs (hyd fold) ........................................................$16,500 CELLI Frangor 140F/305 Spike rotor ....................................................................$23,000 DUNCAN Vibroflex 9 tine HD cultivator ..................................................................$1,950 HOOPER 20x20” Offset trailing discs c/w ram and hoses .....................................$2,950 RATA 504 16’ Trailing 1” coil tine cultivator .........................................................$12,500 CAMBELL & BOWIS 5 furrow semi-mounted plough ............................................$4,950 SIMBA 4.6m Trailing X-Press c/w DD Roller ........................................................$39,500 SIMBA SL 400 4.0m Trailing disc cultivator .........................................................$79,500 CULLIMORE 18’ Trailing cultivator ......................................................................$18,250 CLOUGH 920 10’ mounted maxitill c/w crumbler ..................................................$2,500 DUNCAN Mk2 Renovator, 19 run single box, very tidy ........................................$24,500 DUNCAN Mk3 Renovator, 19 run dual box, very tidy .........................................$25,500 AGMECH 6 Bale feed out machine, self loading ..................................................$36,500 HUSTLER Chainless 4000 2 bale trailing feed out machine.................................$11,950 READ Sidewinder 3ptl bale feeder, self loading ....................................................$4,250 ROBERTSON Super-combi silage wagon............................................................$23,000 GILTRAP M90 125X 13m3 Silage wagon, side feed, scales ................................$21,500 TAEGE HD Contractor post driver c/w spike........................................................$14,500 USED MACHINERY BEING PREPARED SIMBA 23C 10’ Offset trailing discs .......................................................................... POA SIMBA 2B 12’ Offset trailing discs (hyd fold) ............................................................. POA GASPARDO Direct drill .............................................................................................. POA GILTRAP RF16 16m3 Silage wagon, side feed, tandems ......................................... POA UFO/REECE 3400 3.4m Trailing drum mower .......................................................... POA Prices Exclude GST

LARGE RANGE OF HIRE EQUIPMENT - Phone for a list www.northcanterburyequipment.co.nz

Multi-Terrain Vehicle

53 Main Rd Amberley

03 314 8213

If you’re reading this Then so are your customers To advertise in the Canterbury Farming please call 03 347 2314 or email sales@canfarm.co.nz

February 2013

SUPREME DESIGN FINANCE DEAL!

1.95% 12mths* • 2.95% 24mths* 3.95% 36mths* • 4.95% 48mths*

QUALITY PRICING!

Seasonal or yearly payment options available

*Based on 40% Deposit. Normal Lending Criteria & Conditions Apply

100/110HP

INCLUDES

TRIMA 2R80 LOADE

100, 112 OR 130HP

INCLUDES

TRIMA

LOADER

Agrofarm 420GS & 430GS

Agrotron K Series

• German 2012 4 litre available in ROPS or Cabin • Std low profile radial 480/65R24/540/65R34 tyres • Best platform/cabin, high-vis, highly spec’d • Full power shuttle/powershift • 4 wheel disc braking

• World’s most economical Deutz Engine • Powershift trans 24 x 8 40 Kph ECO • World’s quietest cabin. Cab suspension options • ALO Trima +3 loader options (6 cyl Trima +4) • Profiline versions available

FROM ONLY

$87,700+GST

4 cyl FROM

89, 990

130hp 6 cyl FROM

109,900

+GST

All offers while stocks last and subject to change without notice. All pricing + GST. Freight & PD costs may apply. Full Factory Warranty backed up by Power Farming New Zealand nationwide parts and service support. ** Some photos may show optional extras.

www.powerfarming.co.nz POWER FARMING CANTERBURY 51 Waterloo Road, Hornby, Christchurch | 03 349 5975

POWER FARMING ASHBURTON 233 Alford Forest Road, Ashburton | 03 307 7153

POWER FARMING TIMARU 95 Racecourse Road, Washdyke, Timaru | 03 687 4127

Carl Painter 0276 483 300

Simon Jackson 0275 127 205

Ross Dawbin 0272 810 042