Canterbury Farming, May 2016 by Integrity Community Media

May 2016 Edition

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

A brew to be proud of

Rejuvenating the landscape

Water focus for election candidate P42

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Hooked for life Page 28–29

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Rural Contractors New Zealand is encouraging all of its members — and any others interested in the agricultural contracting sector — to attend its annual conference being held in the Bay of Islands later next month. Chief Executive Roger Parton says this year’s RCNZ annual conference is being held at the Copthorne Hotel and Resort, in Paihia, from June 27-30. “The conference is now only a month away and for those who have not registered yet; now is the time to do so,” he explains. We will be unable to hold any accommodation past the end of this month, so if people want to come they need to get their registrations in now.” Mr Par ton says the conference has an exciting agenda of relevant and pertinent issues to the rural contracting sector — along with a number of top-line speakers. The theme for this year’s conference is: ‘Your Business from Start to Finish’ and it will also be a celebration of Rural Contractors NZ 20 years as an organisation. “We have an an agenda chock-full of presentations on how to get smarter in running your business and use of the latest technology,” Mr Parton adds. “If you have never attended a national conference before; I can highly recommend it. It provides a fantastic opportunity to

Roger Parton, Chief executive, Rural Contractors New Zealand

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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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CANTERBURY FARMING

May 2016

Water scheme announcement Government support for the Central Plains Water Scheme has been announced by the Ministry for Primary Industries during a visit to the scheme by Minister Nathan Guy. Through the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Irrigation Acceleration Fund, up to $6.64 million has been allocated to CPW to support completion of stage two of their scheme’s development as well as $900,000 for the Sheffield Irrigation Scheme which is a sub-scheme of CPW. CPW Limited CEO, Derek Crombie has welcomed the latest funding announcements for the two projects. Stage two will deliver reliable alpine river water to 25,000 hectares of very productive land. “The scheme will allow existing groundwater wells to be replaced as well as providing water for aquifer recharge, stock water and community supply if needed. These measures will help restore flows in lowland

streams, Te Waihora, Lake Ellesmere and overall groundwater levels,” says Mr Crombie. “The Sheffield scheme will integrate with the Selwyn district stock water system to provide both irrigation and stock water to a 4000 hectare area of prime cropping land.” Ministr y for Primar y Industries director-general Mar tyn Dunne believes government suppor t of schemes such as CPW and Sheffield is essential for the livelihoods of regional communities, and in turn the New Zealand economy. “Through irrigation, land owners have options for the future of their land. For farmers who will benefit from the CPW and Sheffield schemes, they will have the options of used their land for arable, pastoral, dairy

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suppor t, hor ticulture or dairy use. “The Irrigation Acceleration Fund is a mechanism we use to support sustainable primary sector growth in the regions, helping to achieve the government’s goal of doubling the value of primary industry exports by 2025,” says Mr Dunne. The IAF helps support the d ev e l o p m e n t of irrigation infrastructure proposals to the stage where they are investment ready, which means they must be commercially robust and demonstrate a high level of community support. Government also supports these projects through Crown Irrigation Investments Ltd, which acts as a bridging investor for regional water infrastructure development

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CANTERBURY FARMING

A BREW TO BE PROUD OF BY AYLA MILLER ALASKAN BORN JASON TRIGG FOUND HIS VOCATION HALFWAY AROUND THE WORLD FROM HIS HOME, IN THE SMALL MINING TOWN OF WESTPORT, AS HEAD CIDER BREWER AT WEST COAST BREWERY.

est Coast Brewery has been around since the early nineties and the site has been a brewery since the 1950s. Jason first arrived in Westport three years ago and has worked his way up from brewer’s assistant to head cider brewer. After studying business management he travelled to Australia where he met his girlfriend and together they travelled to New Zealand, liked it, and ended up staying. Prior to his travels, Jason had dabbled in some home brewing, but says working in the brewery has given him

another level of appreciation for craft beer. “I’ve always had a passion for creating different alcoholic beverages and once I started working here, being able to understand what goes into it and the processes, has made it that much more interesting. I’ve definitely become more excited about it the more I learn.” The brewery is run with the philosophy of not putting anything on the market they wouldn’t drink themselves and they have recently begun exporting cider to China. “The first shipment is ready to go now and we will

export a total of 80,000 litres of cider for the year,” Jason said. They have six beers on tap and brew everything from craft lagers, drafts, Jason’s personal favourite — the pale ale, and their historically popular West Coast Miner’s Black which is a tribute to the original brewery run by miners. The brewery is a small boutique operation with four staff including Jason and head beer brewer, Marc Gardiner. Jason and Marc are in charge of everything from front of house to the brewing and ordering the ingredients.

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0800 668 534 advantageplastics.co.nz STAFF MEMBER BRADY ROGER HARD AT WORK IN THE BREWERY “It’s pretty full on, but when you are working for a larger brewery you can be stuck on one machine all day every day for a year, so it’s nice to have so much variety in our day,” says Jason. “It’s not easy but every day is a new challenge and I do enjoy my beer on occasion. That is what got me started thinking about this type of a career.” He says craft beer is taking off in New Zealand despite the country’s long and loving history with Speights, DB and Tui. “The mainstream beer is a pretty simplified taste so that it appeals to everybody. I would compare mainstream beer to aircraft food. They don’t make it bad but they

HEAD BEER BREWER MARC GARDINER TAKES PRIDE IN HIS CRAFT BREWS

don’t make it good because good in one person’s eyes isn’t good in others. “Craft beer is specific flavours and luckily in New Zealand the following is getting larger and the younger generation are definitely jumping on the bandwagon and appreciating the other options.” Jason and Marc naturally brew beer and cider with no added flavours, preservatives or sugars. “Those things might make the process faster but we prefer to do it properly by not adding those other things. “This means there are not as many bad by-products that your body has to process so you’ll have less of a hangover.”

As Westport shifts from relying on mining to tourism, the brewery now offers guided tours. Tourists get a chance to taste a range of beers and the brewers explain about the ingredients and the natural processes used. Altogether the operation produces around 125,000 litres of craft beer and 80,000 litres of cider every year and supply bars as far away as Auckland right through to Dunedin, although Jason says their beer is still a well kept secret. “It is harder to find than it should be but we are heavily supported by our locals. If you are travelling through Westport you had better stop here to try it

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Investment markets update

Meth contamination of properties New Zealand now has something of an ingrained and growing methamphetamine subculture. Police and Customs seized three times more meth last year than in any other year, and reports show it’s easier to access than ever. Police statistics show 77 per cent of meth labs are found in residential properties. Both smoking and cooking of meth lead to significant issues of contamination of dwellings and property. If contamination occurs over months and years, the sub-surface linings, framing and insulation will all become contaminated and yet you will not be able to see any of this contamination. Even smoking outside will still contaminate the house because the vapours will follow the smoker inside and residues will contaminate the smoker’s clothes, which will cross-contaminate everything they touch inside the home. Ministr y of Health guidelines recommend 0.5 mcg of methamphetamine residue per 100 centimetres squared as the baseline for contamination. Positive readings up to 100 mcg per 100sq cm have been found on lab testing. The dangers of purchasing a contaminated

property, from both a health and financial point of view are significant. The legal and financial consequences are alarming. Recently the Tenancy Tribunal ordered a tenant who contaminated a property to pay the landlord close to $20,000, which were the costs to test and repair the severely contaminated state house. The Tribunal has also ordered a landlord to pay more than $7,500 to former tenants for unknowingly renting them a meth-contaminated house. a breach of a landlord’s Residential Tenancies Act . Most houses that test above the guidelines for methamphetamine have low to moderate contamination and require decontamination. Specialised chemicals are used to draw out contaminants and then neutralise them.Sometimes wall linings, ceilings and flooring may be removed from some areas of moderate

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meth contamination. Some electrical appliances, which attract meth contaminants, like stoves, range-hoods, light switches and fittings, air filters and power points may also need to be removed in moderate cases. Demolition is usually reserved for the worst cases where ‘P’ labs have been well established. Decontamination of a property can cost between $5000 and $35,000. Costs of replacing carpets and curtains can be upward of $10,000. If demolition is required it costs around $16,000 for a small property. While you may be able to see clear evidence of a ‘P’ Lab, in the form of stains on walls and floors and extra extractor fans, you are very unlikely to see any evidence of substance abuse by itself. If you have concerns about a prospective purchase of property it would be advisable to contact a testing service and have samples laboratory tested. If this is the case it would be advisable to have a further term incorporated in the contract to expressly address the issue. DIY test kits are available but inaccuracies and operator errors often result in poor readings, and false negative results can occur where contamination has been painted over or washed with bleach.

Covering the three months ended April 30 2016

International Equity Markets Most equity markets we follow delivered positive local currency returns for the quarter, with Australasian, United States and United Kingdom equity markets recovering sufficiently to post positive year-to-date returns. Despite the European central banks signalling the potential to purchase corporate debt, these markets have been the laggards. However, the strength in the New Zealand dollar (NZD) has offset most of the gains from international markets as local interest rates remain higher relative to those offshore. Australian and New Zealand Equity Markets In Australasia, New Zealand equities continue to stand out as international buying continues to support New Zealand equity prices. Australian equities however, have begun to see some respite and a recovery in the resource sector meant

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Australian equities also delivered positive returns, in NZD terms, over the quarter. The banking sector was still a drag on performance as higher provisions and pressure on margins impacted share prices. However, with price-tobook ratios at similar levels to those seen during the Global Financial Crisis, it appears that sufficient risk has been factored into these prices. Fixed Interest Markets Fixed interest returns picked up over the quarter, as negative interest rate policies internationally helped drive interest rates lower. The degree to which this has impacted markets can be illustrated by the ability of the Republic of Ireland to issue 100-year bonds at an interest rate of 2.35%. This was at a rate that was less than United States 30-year bonds and is less than three years after Ireland saw off an international bailout. Corporate spreads (the interest rate gap between

corporate and wholesale bond rates) also contracted from recent highs, after the European Central Bank expanded its mandate to allow the purchase of corporate debt as part of their securities purchase plan. This is important domestically, given the prevalence of corporate debt in New Zealand investment portfolios. This has also encouraged New Zealand corporate bond issuance. Issuance was notably strong over the last quarter and in par ticular, issuance of senior debt securities. This increase in choice has allowed investors to be more selective in participating in these offerings. If you’re new to investing please see Forsyth Barr’s Introduction to Investing guide available at forsythbarr. co.nz/investing-with-us/newto-investing or to discuss your investment options please contact Andrew Wyllie, an Authorised Financial Adviser with Forsyth Barr in Christchurch. He can be contacted regarding portfolio management, fixed interest, or share investments on 0800 367 227 or andrew. wyllie@forsythbarr.co.nz. This column is general in nature and should not be regarded as personalised investment advice. Disclosure Statements are available on request and free of charge.

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RURAL PROFESSIONALS

CANTERBURY FARMING

Health and Safety at Work The new Health and Safety at Work Act came into force on April 4. WorkSafe’s Agriculture Programme manager, Al McCone, explains what farmers need to know. You should manage workrelated risks wherever you’re working. But the law is quite clear; the farmhouse is not a workplace. So, what about the rest of the farm? The new law clears up what is and what isn’t a workplace on a farm. As a farmer, you have a duty to manage workplace risks in the following areas: Farm buildings and immediate surrounding areas (whether or not work is going on at the time) Other par ts of the farm, where work is being carried out. In those areas you’re responsible for the health and safety of your workers and others, and for managing the risks that you can reasonably control. Am I responsible for contractors? The n ew l aw is designed to encourage cooperation, communication and collaboration. So where the work of two or more businesses overlap, they must work together to keep everyone safe. Talking to each other and sharing information is vital. To find out more about the Health and Safety at Work Act, including the new duties for company officers visit worksafe.govt.nz/hswa.

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May 2016

CANTERBURY FARMING

by Rose Stirling

Chanelle O’Sullivan’s facebook page might be called Just A Farmer’s Wife but that’s not all she is.

he 26-year-old is the wife of a deer farmer, a mother of two, and a social media exponent who helped grow the facebook page Farming Mums NZ to more than 6,000 members within three years. Chanelle lives on a 1,000 hectare farm with 3,000 head of deer on Raincliff Station near Pleasant Point in Geraldine and many of her posts highlight the beautiful scenery in the region as well as the highs and lows of her cooking adventures, mostly using all local ingredients. So why is Chanelle’s latest online venture dubbed, Just A Farmer’s Wife?

“A few people have asked why I would say ‘Just’ and I guess in type it can be deceiving and not read as it was intended — with that ‘Just’ drenched in sarcasm,” she says. “Whether you are involved on the farm, the vet/town pick up slave, or just happen to be living on the farm, raising some mud soaked farm kids — it’s very easy to feel like everyone on and around the farm sees you as just the farmer’s wife.” But times have changed since the domestic goddess housewife picture — we have the internet, we have social skills, we have

correspondence, study options we have more childcare options and we have the attitude to push what we want out of life. We are incredibly lucky to live in the 21st century and I really hope that I can help other farming mums and wives turn that ‘Farmers Wife’ feeling into a burning desire to be someone and create your own path in life.” Chanelle is using her facebook page which has over 2,000 likes to help others to make the most of living in the country and to realise that they’re not ‘just’ farmers wives. “It’s also about showcasing rural New

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CANTERBURY FARMING

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Chanelle and her daughter Isabelle enjoy a bit of baking

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The O’Sullivan children — Hunter and Isabelle Zealand in a fun light. One thing I find really important is making sure that people who live rurally make the most of it and its opportunities. Some people think that living rurally means they’ve lost a few opportunities and I just want people to know that no matter what your situation you can make the most of it. It’s just a case of finding your own thing — it’s about the rise of the mumtrepreneur. Certainly Chanelle herself has started to ‘create her own path’ in life through the use of social media. As a result of

the booming success of the NZ Farming Mum’s facebook page, a cookbook is now in the final stages of production. “It has been worked on for the past year now with editing and graphic design, so it’s in the pipeline. The recipes come from the facebook page — so everyone involved in the farming mums’ group had the chance to post their recipes. I think we have about 150.” Recipes include advice on how to use up the “acres of mince you get when you have a cow in the freezer,” says Chanelle.

The cookbook is titled Farming Mum’s NZ Cookbook and has been made possible with the support of Farmlands and Worksafe. Chanelle has also been recognised for her social media efforts with helping to connect rural women, and as a result has recently been sponsored by Rural Women of New Zealand to further her studies by attending the Kellogg Rural Leadership course at Lincoln University. “It’s a fantastic opportunity and now it’s up to me to make the most of it.”

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CANTERBURY FARMING

REJUVENATING THE LANDSCAPE Showing leadership in eco-sourcing native plants and planting the appropriate native species is important to Ngai Tahu and Lincoln University for ecological and cultural reasons. by Ann Morgan

he Ngai Tahu Farming Te Whenua Hou restoration planting programme is important to the future of the native species being regenerated in Canterbury. Ben Gieson is a project manager and says his role is about developing the iwi farms, and bringing native trees back into the environment around houses, dairy sheds, ponds and reserves. “Students learn here through the Whenua Kura cadetship programme. There are 10-12 this year. A lot of them live on the farms and are involved in different parts of the farming programme. “Those who picked last year’s seeds are now seeing

16-18,000 plants ready to be planted and another 45,000 will come through shortly. “The iwi is working hard for native trees to be re-established into the landscapes. “Each farm has a reserve and most are planted in kanuka with some manuka trees. Together with Lincoln, we have drafted plans of how the areas will look once restocked with particular trees which originally existed in these places.” Some trees are significant to the iwi such as kowhai, totara, kanuka and manuka. “It is important to plant species that are going to survive in the environmental conditions as well. There has been a bit of trial and error.

We are tailoring our plans to the plants that will cope with the wind, rain, snow and dry summers. “I believe the medicinal properties from kanuka will be more in demand in the future. We have to ensure we use the correct species as there are a number of varieties available. One of our biggest issues was sourcing the correct type for this location, so we have built our own nursery to help us regenerate the seeds from our own plants. “Eco-sourcing has always been a very important concept and from the outset I was keen that our programme’s partners Lincoln University were involved in attempts to source seeds from within the nearby kanuka and manuka

Ben Gieson with new kanuka seedlings at the Te Whenua Hou onsite nursery

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Ben oversees the project of eco-sourcing native plants for Ngai Tahu reserves,” said Mr Giesen. The seeds are collected from naturally-occurring vegetation in a locality close to where they are to be planted. It means the plants will be suited to local conditions and are more likely to flourish. “Our Whenua Kura students have worked alongside Lincoln staff to collect seeds from the nearby reserves and Zealandia nurseries grows those for us. They come back to us as tiny seedlings and we grow them on in our nursery. “When the seedlings reach a certain height we place them where they are needed and once they have

adjusted to being in position we plant them.” Many of New Zealand’s plants have adapted to local conditions, developing distinct attributes which give the species resilience against a changing environment or threats such as plant diseases. Through ecosourcing, that resilience can be maintained and plants endemic to an area and climatic conditions are more likely to survive. “The most threatened flora in New Zealand is in Canterbury lowland. There has been huge transformation of these areas for over a hundred years and the areas

of remnant native species are very very small. So for us, it’s about looking at biodiversity as a whole — the lizards, the birds, the insects — and how we can entice them back and provide them with an enhanced breeding habitat. “The plantings also provide shelter for the environment, as it is very flat and open. With the forest gone it is very exposed. “Not just for the animals but the people living out there as well. After a year I hand the projects over to the farm managers to maintain and care for. The initiative is evolving and having our own nursery has decreased our

May 2016

Seeds that have been collected from the kanuka costs significantly. Every year we get better and eventually will be able to help others

with planting programmes and knowledge. For Ngai Tahu it’s about setting a benchmark in

terms of investment — and investing in nature is always a good idea,” says Mr Gieson.

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May 2016

WATER & IRRIGATION

CANTERBURY FARMING

The ‘Know to make it Flow’ Andrew Curtis, Irrigation New Zealand CEO

IrrigationNZ welcomes new funding It’s been a positive month for irrigation developments with the welcome news of government funding of $7.85 million for Canterbury irrigation projects that will help lift the water quality of Lake Ellesmere and groundwater in the Hinds area. The Central Plains Water scheme has been injected with $6.64m to help get its next stages through to construction, and $312,000 has been put towards a pilot study for aquifer recharge in the Hinds area which aims to restore spring-fed stream flows and alongside, address groundwater nitrate issues. The Hinds recharge project is

particularly exciting because it’s the first time techniques commonly used overseas are being used to improve water quality in New Zealand. The Managed Aquifer Recharge Project, or MAR as it’s known in the industry, was officially launched at the start of this month. The trial — a first in New Zealand — will use clean

Rangitata River water to soak into the aquifer in an area of high nitrate concentrations, diluting the nitrate, whilst also providing better reliability for groundwater takes and stream flows. This, alongside the move to Good Management Practice through Audited Farm Environment Plans, will allow natural ecosystems to

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regenerate. The water will come from the Ashburton District Council’s unused stock water allocation via the Rangitata Diversion Race and Valetta Irrigation Scheme. Groundwater, surface water and climate monitoring will be built into computer models to distinguish the trial effects from other water influences. Managed aquifer recharge is used a lot in the United States to replenish aquifers, but is new to New Zealand. This trial is about replenishing aquifers and diluting nitrates. It could be a great tool going forward with excellent environmental outcomes. The success of the trial could lead to it being used in other catchments in New Zealand. The project is expected to bring many benefits to the Ashburton community including economic, environment and recreation. IrrigationNZ also welcomes the announcement by Primary Industries Minister, Nathan Guy, that responsibility for the Government’s irrigation programmes will change

Highbank Power Station on the Rakaia River which is part of the Barrhill Chertsey Scheme and the second is sprinkler irrigation

next month when Crown Ir rigation Investments Limited takes over grants for the development of regional irrigation schemes. This role was previously carried out by the MPI’s Irrigation Acceleration Fund which will continue to be involved in supporting early stage strategic water studies and smaller irrigation scheme developments. We think it’s a good move to link the Government’s

irrigation investment agency more closely to developing schemes as they have expertise, and their help and advice is welcome in setting up the commercial side of community water storage projects as this is one of the biggest hurdles to be overcome. In the past we have often commented that the two government organisations involved in irrigation should be joined at the hip so this makes much sense.

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Weather Watch

CANTERBURY FARMING

Another warmer than normal month arrived in April, with temperatures following the trend of Feburary and March. Rainfall

Temperature

Sunshine

Near Normal

Milder than normal

Cloudier than normal

More low pressure systems

July

A little dryer

Near normal

Cloudier than normal

More low pressure systems

August

Near normal

Colder than normal

Near normal

More southerly winds

September

Near normal

Milder than normal

Near normal

More low pressure systems

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the country. This could bring a colder than normal month to the east and south of the South Island, but near normal temperatures elsewhere. This looks like the month most

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La Ninas on record. Here at Blue Skies we continue to think it will probably take hold by late winter or early spring. This could lead to a wetter than normal spring and summer ahead. June is showing up as a warmer than normal month with near normal rainfall in Canterbury. Westerly quarter airflow should dominate with some anticyclones, but also some of Tasman Sea troughs of low pressure. July should also be a little milder than usual overall, with west to southwest airflow dominating, and some frosty periods with mild days and cold nights. Rainfall may be perhaps a little drier than normal in the east. August may see more anticyclones forming in the south Tasman Sea, with more southerly airflow over

by Tony Trewinnard

Beginning of an El Nina event Much like March the month was drier and sunnier than usual too, with increased frequency of northerly airflow over New Zealand. In Canterbury April was +0.8 to +1.5deg warmer than usual overall, with daytime temperatures significantly above the long-term normal by 2–3deg, while night time temperatures were near normal. Sunshine hours were 20–30% above normal. There were fewer than usual days with rain over most of the province, and rainfall totals for the month were 25–50% of normal, with most rain falling early in the month. At the time of writing, the first two weeks of May have continued the trend of warm days with plenty of sunshine, and fewer days with rain. However, much colder temperatures have arrived in the third week of the month. In the tropical Pacific, ocean temperatures have cooled very rapidly through April and early May, with waters now cooler than usual off the Central American coast, indicating the beginning of a La Nina event. This decay of the recent El Nino is also apparent in other atmospheric and oceanic indicators. All computer models we monitor continue to predict the beginnings of a La Nina event through the next few months. A significant La Nina event is now very likely for later this year, with some predicting one of the strongest

May 2016

likely to bring snowfalls to the South Island. The worst case scenario would be a Tasman Sea sea low pressure system colliding with a cold southerly outbreak.

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Forestry Market Report Allan Laurie MNZIF, Laurie Forestry Ltd Log marketplace remains steady Price and demand have remained strong across all wood fibre segments over the last month. The continuance of a stable and good price for logs is helping maintain an air of business as usual and I think most appreciate the market is almost boringly good at present. A slightly higher exchange rate and rising shipping costs have subdued what could have been higher lifts at the wharf gate for the export segment in May. Despite CIF

(landed in market) prices rising US$5 to $7 per cubic metre, prices at the wharf gate are flat to little changed. There is no doubt the overall picture in our key

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export market, China, is one of softening. Domestic lumber prices have been falling RMB20 to 30 per cubic metre per week, the equivalent of NZ$4 to $8. This is a sure sign softening log prices are just around the corner. In May there was a wide range in A grade basis settlements in China, some in excess of US$120 per cubic metre. We consider these levels were very unwise, encouraging more volume out of other countries and at a time when there are clear warning signs of weakness ahead. Thus we are seeing June settlements, whilst for most still being negotiated at time of writing, likely to round out at slightly weaker levels. The reasons for the softening include the normal seasonal slowdown in consumption, ample and growing supply of softwood lumber and logs out of Russia, extra ships of logs out of the US and a shortage of credit in the money go — round in China.

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On the domestic scene Auckland, Hamilton and Central Otago have been quoted as the hotbeds of demand, whilst Christchurch has definitely come off the boil. Indeed I have heard several reports of builders shrinking staff and some looking for alternative employment options. Judging by some of the concrete and steel monstrosities they are putting up in the Christchurch CBD, I would guess there is not the demand for lumber. Yet another opportunity lost and the environment one step closer to non-sustainability. At least it is good to see some token timber in some of the finishing work. Despite what is being quoted as weakening demand locally, sawmills are very busy quoting some sharper freight rates and good demand internationally for lumber as being the catalyst for sales. Prices remain subdued but the peripheral factors are keeping them in the game. In China, a furrowed brow

probably best describes the mood. Additional volumes from the Pacific NorthWest, Russia, Europe and Chile are adding to the pot of concern. Consumption has also been weakening although pretty much at the levels expected. Usage is running at between 55,000 and 65,000 cubic metres per day, the equivalent of on average of 1.5 full vessel loads per day. My spies suggest there are 32–36 vessels heading to China this month from PNW, Australia and NZ alone. Add Russian volume into the mix and unless there is a miracle and someone adds some more days to the month I suspect the current 3.18 mil m3 inventory is about to rise… Of some concern on my recent visit to China, was a large number of containers of Chile Radiata pine logs being de-vaned. We had always believed this was a lumber only supplier with their government insisting ever ything had to be processed locally. So this

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is a concerning sign, more particularly since the log quality was well ahead of the average NZ log. On the plus side, I also visited a factory which has ramped in 3 years from a focus on construction ply and lumber, to consumption of approximately 250,000 m3 per annum for furniture and components, mouldings and panelling. Planned expansion is expected to take this operation to 500,000 cubic metres per annum. This is an exciting development with a focus on NZ radiata pine markets a significant and exciting step away from the traditional apartment construction sector. For these markets sap stain is a major issue and one NZ will need to focus on if we want to shift away from the construction sector which up until now has totally dominated the demand profile in China. The commercial plantation industry continues to yield some of the highest returns of all land uses in NZ and looks set to continue for some time to come. Prices are stable and at very good levels. 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!

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CANTERBURY FARMING

Outstanding dairy farmer scoops top award

May 2016

ANDY McCORD TECHNICAL FOREST SERVICES LTD

Rebecca Keoghan’s outstanding contribution to the dairy industry over the last decade has led to her being named the fifth Dairy Woman of the Year. Keoghan, from Westport in the South Island, received the award at the Dairy Women’s Network conference at Claudelands Event Centre after being selected by a panel that included judges from the Dairy Women’s Network, Fonterra, Global Women and Ballance Agri-Nutrients. She wins a $30,000 place on the 11-month Global Women Breakthrough Leaders Programme sponsored by Fonterra. “My passion and drive for dairying is in all aspects of my life,” said Rebecca who was nominated by one of her staff, farm manager Jack Raharuhi. The mother of two is Landcorp business manager, Westland Milk Products director, NZ Dairy Industry Awards Dairy Manager of the Year Award team leader, OSPRI Northern South Island committee member and Keoghan Farm director with her husband Nathan. At Landcorp Rebecca has overall strategic leadership and direction for five large dairy farms, a dairy support farm and a machiner y syndicate at Cape Foulwind and the Grey Valley. “Leading and inspiring 55 staff along with quality

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production across 5,000 dairy cows, 4,000 hectares and 2,500 young stock provides an exciting challenge. This senior management role with Landcorp provides an excellent platform to combine my leadership and business skills within the industry I am fiercely passionate about.” She says she loves the challenges of leadership and g ov e r n a n c e at Westland in what she calls “this exciting and challenging time of changing economies, milk prices and industry movement.” Before moving to the Keoghan Farm in 2006, Keoghan, a medical science

graduate, was managing medical laboratories in New Zealand and Australia. “The move to the coast kick started my passion for dairy as my husband Nathan and I purchased our family farm to be proud fifth generation dairy farmers,” she said. “Our system change in this 2016 season to once a day milking all season to combat the challenges associated with milk prices; has proven successful,” Rebecca said. Dairy Woman of the Year judge Alison Gibb described Rebecca as an extremely motivated, high performer with positive drive and passion who likes to take

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those around her with her. “Rebecca is fully involved in her local community but knows exactly where she wants to head in the leadership space and is on her way. In par ticular she acknowledges that dairy is global and wants to know more about that space. Her particular passion is health and safety and believes safety leadership drives excellence.” Keoghan was one of three finalists shortlisted for the award. The other two were Central West Coast dairy farmer Renee Rooney and Waihi based LIC farm solution manager Michelle Wilson.

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Forest Management services With 25 years’ experience in the industry the Forest Management Team offer services in: • Woodlot and shelterbelt harvesting • Timber sales to domestic and export markets • Forest establishment of harvested and greenfield sites • Forest Valuation • Emission trading scheme advice and management • Trainer/Assessor in NZQA forestry related units Our highly experienced team aims to ensure value optimisation in all aspects of forest management. To find out more call us on 03 343 4101 or visit www.forestmanagement.co.nz

May 2016

CANTERBURY FARMING

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There has been much criticism of new regulation making powers for the Environment Minister, the restrictions on the public’s right to comment on resource consent applications and council plan changes, and the removal of appeal rights to the Environment Court. Companies involved in large development such as new quarries, infrastructure operators such as airports have made similar points in opposition as Fish and Game NZ and Forest and Bird. Fe d e r a t e d Fa r m e r s described the proposed Ministerial powers as ‘excessive’ and the provisions which allow central Government to intervene

directly in local council plans as ‘heavy handed’. Sir Geoffrey Palmer presenting evidence for Fish and Game described the powers as a ‘constitutional outrage’. The Bill allows the Environment Minister to make regulations that permit certain land uses, prohibit specified rules, and override local plan rules which deal with the same subject matter as other legislation. A new RMA tool, a national planning template would allow the Minister not just to decide how councils should structure their regional and district plans, but also decide their content by requiring councils to insert certain provisions (including rules) directly into

plans. As Fonterra said: ‘These provisions can detract from local decision making on local issues; compromise the principles of natural justice for stakeholders, and compromise robust resource management decision making’. Sustainable management requires that people and communities are involved in decision making. Farmers and others want to be able to comment when a new quarry, wind farm, or industrial plant is proposed in their area. Public submissions and local knowledge help councils make better decisions. Previous changes to the RMA in 2009 restricted the

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Recreational fishing boosts economy An independent report has shown that recreational fishing is worth a whopping $172million to the South Island economy and the chairman of the NZ Marine Research foundation says it is vital we protect it. The South Island is home to some of New Zealand’s best fishing spots and is a popular pastime for farmers in the region, so it’s no surprise the value it adds to the local economy. South Island Fish & Game communications advisor Richard Cosgrove says the rural community hosts some 15 thousand fishing licence holders in North Canterbury alone. He says the Selwyn river for example which is

quite small has about 3,300 anglers per year. “That works out to be $313,500k per year from that one river, and that’s quite a small one”. An independent report commissioned by the foundation has found that the industry supports 8,100 jobs and generates $1.7 billion in economic activity. This is the first time such a report has been commissioned and it shows

the activity is a vital part of the fastest growing revenue sector, tourism. Tony Orman, of the Marlborough Recreational Fishers Association, says that contribution to the economy can’t be overstated. “We’ve never really had the data to prove what we

all believed — that on a per kilo basis, the fish brought in by recreational fishers is worth far more than the fish brought in by commercial fishing. More than 100,000 international visitors to New Zealand go fishing each year and the value they add to the economy is tremendous.”

Chair of the New Zealand Marine Research Foundation, Jeff Romeril, says the report will help guide policy makers on the future use of our fishing resources. “Prior to this report, the value of the industry to the economy was largely unknown. Now, it is clear

that there is substantial economic activity associated with ‘recreational’ fishing. “It is our view that greater abundance in our inshore fisheries will mean greater certainty leading to better fishing experiences, increased tourism, consumer spending and job creation.”

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CANTERBURY FARMING

Country Matters

May 2016

LAND CLEARING & DEVELOPMENT

LOGGING CONTRACTORS

with Rob Cope-Williams

The importance of being Ernest If you look it up on Wikipedia you will find that Ernest is of Germanic origin and comes from their word Ernst.

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It means; bold, vigorous or resolute. To me all three meanings are exactly what farmers need to be at the present time. Bold as in believe in yourself and back your decisions. Vigorous as in work smarter not harder, but make things happen as and when you can, and resolute — well that is what kiwi farmers are very good at. To flow on from that I know a lot of farmers and the top five per cent of them are bold in their approach to their support people, as in accountants, lawyers and farm advisors.

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They literally boldly tell them everything and ask questions others would be scared to ask in case the answer isn’t what they want to hear. They are also very likely to take on more of the work load, and sadly or reluctantly, drop of staff members, especially in the dairy field. That of course puts extra work on them as they have to do paper, or more likely computer work, in the evening and into the night. But vigour can be very good for advancing. However such vigour does need to be controlled to a degree as we all know that

vigorous growth on trees and vines can be vulnerable to climate issues and wind, and you certainly don’t want to overdo it yourself and end up on the ground! That top five per cent are ver y focussed on getting through the present downturns, and I say downturns because it isn’t just the dairy farmers, it is also those who grow grain, grass or brassicas for the dairy industry and others who are struggling through the second year of drought with off farm grazing bills that would choke a horse. That determination or

resolve, is what got farmers through the 1980s and all the challenges Government and world markets have thrown at the New Zealand farming industry Think of the All Blacks — they have the smallest pool of players in the world but they are the best in the world, and their methods or business plan, because that is what it is, has become a template for the commercial world all over the planet. They are the best in the world when it comes to rugby — kiwi farmers are the best in the world when it comes to farming.

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CANTERBURY FARMING

From the Minister

May 2016

Nathan Guy, Minister for Primary Industries

Jazz apples going strong in France Recently I visited an orchard growing delicious New Zealand Jazz apples in an unlikely location — the Le Mans region of France, about an hour out of Paris on a fast train. The Jazz apple was first developed by ENZA in the 1980s and has been a big hit in France. Commercial orchards began planting it in 2003 and there are now over 1.3 million trees in France. It’s a great example of cooperation between ourselves and our trading par tners. Having these apples grown in the northern hemisphere gives the advantage of seasonality, meaning we can supply the hungry market of China all year round. ENZA has a global strategy to increase global production of Jazz apples to 20 million cartons by 2020. Of this, 8 or 9 million are likely to come from the Southern Hemisphere, including New Zealand, so clearly there will need to be growth in European production as well. I visited the orchard as a guest of French Agriculture Minister,

Stephane Le Foll, who was very impressed and could see the benefits of working together. For example, French producers can tap into New Zealand’s distribution links into Asia. During my trip to Europe I promoted this as a good example of the benefits of a free trade deal for cooperation, not just competition. You can see this happening already with European companies like Baywa, Danone and Moet investing here, and our companies like Fonterra and Gallagher investing in Europe. There is still a long road ahead for this FTA and it won’t be easy, so visits like mine will be important to keep pushing this and getting our messages across. It was encouraging to see the comments of French Prime Minister, Manuel

Valls, when he visited New Zealand in early May, the first visit by a French PM in 25 years. He said that France supports free trade “providing concessions are mutual, trade agreements are fair and balanced and tariff barriers effectively lifted.” Also important is the TPP which will deliver major benefits. The estimated savings for our fruit and vegetable exports are around $34 million a year once implemented, and that is a conservative estimate as we know from experience overall trade levels are likely to rise. For example, the FTA with Chinese Taipei saw the value of apple exports increase by 200% over two years, and also big gains for cherry exports (150%) and kiwifruit (24%) over the same period. Overall the horticulture industry is one of the stars of the New

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Nathan Guy Primary Industries Minister with Stephane Le Foll French Agriculture Minister (centre) and local apple growers in Le Mans, France

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CANTERBURY FARMING

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CANTERBURY FARMING

with Dr Tony Daveron

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Last month I wrote of a little Irish saying ‘to be sure to be sure’ and used the meaning to emphasise the enduring dry weather. Not even the Irish could have been ‘to be sure’ that in May I could still write the same. The same warning signs are still here — very large dryland soil moisture deficits and very low water levels. capacity in the top 30–40cm; • On irrigated properties with deeper soils, it will satisfy any desire or thought of irrigating to maintain growth; and • On unirrigated properties it will barely ‘wet the surface’. The soil moisture record from the ECan lysimeter site at the Airport (just off Pound Road) shows: • A soil moisture deficit prior to 20 May of 75mm; • Not quite as dry (slightly smaller deficit) as March 2015; • No drainage beyond 2m since September 2015; and • The need for at least 75– 80mm before the profile will be returned to Field Capacity (Full Point) and for significant drainage to take place. Now superimpose this rainfall requirement on very low groundwater levels, the

fact that we are near the end of May and there is potential for a ‘perfect storm’ for reliable groundwater in 2016– 17. We need to be in a position for rainfall recharge to be replenishing groundwater now, not still waiting for soil moisture deficits to be refilled. In many places groundwater levels are the lowest ever recorded — maybe not the lowest ever because we do not have long historic records like we do for rainfall and river flows. No matter, the records are sufficiently long to give us concern for 2016–17. Last month I also discussed the water level in bore M36/1926 as a key deepish mid-plains observation bore to watch. We had seen a ‘kick-back’ in the groundwater level as everyone turned off for a while after the March rainfall. That has one, and since then groundwater levels have

Digger 4 HIRE

Irrigation Issues

Finally we think we might have carried out our last soil moisture measurements for the 2015–16 season — one that measurements began back in August 2015 and (as I write) finished on May 19. ‘To be sure to be sure’ this has been our longest monitoring season since we began taking measurements for farmers back in 1983–84. We think the rain over May 20-22 will put paid to any need for more measurements and certainly no more thought of irrigation. While the 25mm or so across the plains is a fraction of the 100+mm over Banks Peninsula, it is enough to pack up or park irrigation for a few months. What 23mm or so will not do is provide any groundwater recharge: ie • On irrigated properties with shallow low water holding capacity soils, it might top up soil moisture to about field

May 2016

fallen to the lowest recorded since the bore was installed in 1984. The same features are seen in the record from bore M36/0217 — previously used as a trigger water level bore for the West MeltonYaldhurst Groundwater Zone. These are the lowest groundwater levels recorded and agree with levels which have been measured by individual farmers and landowners in this area of Canterbury. Furthermore, very low water levels have been recorded before and after low recharge winters. The time for substantial recharge is running out, especially for deeper bores that need time for water to reach them and recover. Something to ponder — could this be the new norm? History repeats so Split Enz sang, and history does show we have been here before. I hope that this is not the new norm.

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CANTERBURY FARMING

Wine award entries open Entries are now open for the 2016 New World Wine Awards, a wine show that provides winemakers with the opportunity to enjoy direct, tangible commercial benefits from their award-winning wines. Mark Bowers of Rapaura Springs, the vineyard behind the 2015 New World Wine Awards Champion Sauvignon Blanc, said they saw an immediate increase in sales of their Reserve Sauvignon Blanc. “We enjoyed a huge boost in sales and brand awareness because our champion wine was in every New World throughout the country and because of the promotional support that is wrapped

around top wines that win medals at the awards. Other wine shows just don’t have the distribution and retail network to support the award winners in the same way,” he said. Chair of the independent judging panel, Jim Harré, said the New World Wine Awards has grown year-on-year to become such an important fixture on the wine calendar. In order to be eligible for entry to the New World Wine

Awards the wines entered must retail for $25 or less and there must be at least 5,000 bottles available for sale through New World’s supermarkets nationwide. “The calibre of the judging panel and integrity of the judging process are essential elements for any serious wine show, and that is certainly the case for the New World Wine Awards,” said Mr Harré. The panel includes 12 other independent expert wine

judges, many of whom return to judge each year. This year’s guest international judge is Sue Hodder, one of Australia’s most well-known winemakers and senior winemaker for Wynns Coonawarra Estate in South Australia. The judging panel blind taste and judge each wine using the same internationally recognised 20-point scale as other leading wine shows. They award gold, silver and bronze medals, with the best wines in each category re-tasted to determine the champion wine of each varietal, plus the overall champion red and champion white. “Wine l ov e r s are increasingly recognising and eagerly anticipating the results of the New World Wine Awards each year, as reflected by how quickly some of the winning wines are snapped

Jim Harré, chair of the independent judging panel, tastes some potentially award winning wine

up,” said Mr Harré. The judging will take place over three days at Wellington’s Westpac Stadium in August, with results announced later in the year. Entries to the New

World Wine Awards close on Friday, June 24. All details can be found at: newworld.co.nz/wineand-beer/new-world-wineawards-competition.

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May 2016

ADVERTORIAL

The calcium–magnesium connection Magnesium is an extremely important but almost forgotten mineral in New Zealand soils. It is inextricably linked to calcium, a mineral that is also neglected, or at least used for the wrong reasons. They both should form the basis of fertility programmes. Other minerals can be more effective when calcium and magnesium are at optimum levels and are vital for soils, plants and animals. Deficiencies of either or both can result in serious economic consequences. The percentages of Ca and Mg on a soils base saturation are critical to the success of any growing operation. Don’t let anyone tell you it is ratio, it is absolutely not. An ideal soil contains 45 per cent minerals, 5 per cent humus and 50 per cent pore space occupied equally by air and water. It is calcium and magnesium that are responsible for this configuration and in turn will determine the physical water holding and drainage characteristics of your soil. Optimum pore space then translates to an ideal environment for soil biology to thrive in. Plant yields are not only determined by soil nutrients, but also by root depth. Without the correct soil structure, top yields will not happen. For a soil to be in top

condition it is mandatory the calcium / magnesium levels be correct. In most New Zealand soil the target base saturation is 68 per cent calcium and 12 per cent magnesium as determined by a PAL test. Calcium loosens soil by flocculating particles and increasing pore space while magnesium tightens soil by separating particles and decreasing pore space. Therefore if your soil is a lighter sandy type you may well need slightly higher magnesium to improve water holding capacity (65 per cent Ca–15 per cent Mg), while a heavier clay type would require a little more calcium (69 per cent Ca–11 per cent Mg). The total Ca + Mg should equal 80 per cent BS. It is the percentage that determines mineral adequacy, not the actual kilogrammes. If magnesium, a determinant of nitrogen and phosphorus efficiency, is outside the 10–15 per cent ‘sweet spot’ crop performance is hindered and deficiencies may start to show. This is particularly important in seed production where dollar stakes are very high. We do have areas of

high magnesium soils in New Zealand but most are deficient in both magnesium and calcium. A common mistake is to apply calcium (Ag Lime) alone to lift pH, where in fact all four cations — calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium affect pH. The latter three to a greater degree than calcium, with magnesium lifting 1.66 times more. Calcium inputs on there own will displace magnesium on the soil colloid. With every 1% calcium added 1% magnesium can be lost! Dolomite contains 59% calcium carbonate and 39% magnesium carbonate and is a very useful product when lifting both levels in your soil. Dolomite comes in a natural carbonate form and releases over approximately 18 months but will be available for plant uptake generally within 6–8 weeks depending on conditions. Remember; the first step to achieving optimum soil structure and maximising nutrient uptake is to correct your soils Ca/ Mg percentages. For more info email: sales@goldenbaydolomite. co.nz or contact us on 03 525 9843

QUAD BIKE SAFETY Think think think. Think about what you’re carrying. Think about where you’re going.

Just like a typical factory, your soil is filled with workers. These are the organisms that are labouring to make tonnes of healthy grass for your herd. Without this underground workforce, nothing grows. They are literally that important.

Meet Your Grass-growing Workers

This is your fertiliser without proper Magnesium and Calcium Standard NPK grows grass, but... Chances are your grass grower of choice is a standard NPK fertiliser. Most farmers go for that. That’s because they’ve been told that Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium are the three key nutrients for growing pasture. And there’s no doubt that NPK works. Every farmer can see the grass growing results for themselves. But there are a couple of things you can’t see.

The Two Missing Gears Even though your one-size-fits all fertiliser will do a job for you, it won’t condition the soil, grow grass and ultimately produce milk as well as it should. Not if two crucial elements are missing.

When we say “everything” and “all the elements” we also mean the nutrients already existing in your soil and the millions of living organisms in the soil that are largely responsible for grass growth and soil health. Before we examine what Calcium and Magnesium actually do, it’s worth looking at what’s really going on beneath the grass.

Your Soil is a Brown Factory Think of what a factory is: a place where goods are manufactured. But manufacturing requires more than just a location. To produce goods, a factory needs to be filled with workers – labourers who have specific jobs that enable products to be made.

Calcium and Magnesium. These two elements are crucial to a proper fertiliser programme. That’s because Ca and Mg regulate and activate the other nutrients. They are the nutrients that link everything together to enable all the elements to function at full capacity.

Your Soil is a Brown Factory where Grass is Made.

What Magnesium Does Magnesium is essential for plant growth. It is actively involved in photosynthesis and also plays an important role in plant respiration and energy metabolism. • Mg is a carrier for Phosphorus so will ensure a steady flow of Phosphorous to the plant. • Mg increases nitrogen fixation in legumes. • Mg is an enzyme activator and constituent of many enzymes. • Mg is responsible for sugar synthesis and starch translocation. • Mg enables nutrient uptake control.

Worker #1: Good bacteria. In the soil factory, these guy make nutrients available to plants, increase nutrient retention, and enhance soil structure to improve the flow of water and reduce erosion. They release plant growth hormones that stimulate root growth and improve root architecture. They detoxify soil and suppress disease by protecting plants from Pathogens.

Magnesium is also necessary in hundreds of animal biochemical pathways, particularly those involved in nerve function. Ruminants also require magnesium for efficient feed conversion and metabolism.

Worker #2: Fungi Fungi decompose complex carbon compounds and improve the accumulation of organic matter. Some fungi produce hormones and antibiotics which enhance root growth and provide disease suppression. Others physically bind soil particles into aggregates which helps air and water flow as well as the transportation of nutrients to plants.

Some off-the-shelf fertilisers have a Mg/Ca component in them. Should work, right? It depends. The Ca and Mg in standard fertilisers are chemically produced in laboratories. In artificially hardened forms, these nutrients are far less effective than the organic Ca/Mg that soil biology and plants prefer.

But I already use Calcium and Magnesium!

Golden Bay Dolomite is Organic

Worker #3: Protozoa Protozoa are single-celled microorganisms that are active near the root zone. Protozoa release excess nitrogen and nutrients for plants to use and also help soil particles to bind together to provide pore space for retention and exchange of air and water.

Dolomite is a 59% calcium 39% magnesium carbonate occurring as a completely natural rock deposit found in New Zealand only at Mount Burnett, Golden Bay. Dolomite’s magnesium release rate makes it the perfect magnesium controlled release fertiliser. As plant root acid secretions in the soil work on dolomite, its rate of breakdown accelerates in demand to plant requirements, releasing both magnesium and calcium in quantities sufficient to meet requirements, something even a mixture of lime and MgO can’t do.

Worker #4: Nematodes These non-segmented worms mineralise nutrients into plantavailable forms and consume disease-causing organisms. Worker #5: Soil Arthropods These guys improve the soil factory structure through burrowing. Their fecal pellets help bind soil particles and their waste is rich in plant nutrients. Worker #6: Earthworms These guys improve soil stability, porosity, and moistureholding capacity by burrowing and binding soil. They even help root growth by creating channels lined with nutrients. The burrows of vertical earthworms pipe air deeper into the soil, stimulating microbial nutrient cycling at those deeper levels. During droughts these tunnels allow for deep plant root penetration into subsoil regions of higher moisture content.

How Calcium Helps Calcium is known as the King of minerals. That’s because Ca is the transportation nutrient that enhances the uptake of many other nutrients. Some of its functions include: • Promotes healthy root, stem and leaf growth • Improves the soil environment for micro-organisms • Should be between 60 - 70% soil base saturation Fertiliser effectiveness is based around the calcium content of your soil. If the base saturation calcium is below 60% then nutrient uptake is restricted.

Call us for a FREE soil consultation

Contact Golden Bay Dolomite on

03 5259843 or email

sales@goldenbaydolomite.co.nz

May 2016

CANTERBURY FARMING

Council warns against effluent spillage In the lead up to Gypsy Week, Environment Canterbury is advising farmers to do their best to minimise effluent spillage, as they move dairy cattle to winter grazing, and sharemilkers and farm owners move to new properties. Environment Canterbury’s Southern Zones zone manager Michael Hide says it is important that farmers minimise effluent spillage when transporting stock because it poses a significant safety risk. “It is a safety risk for traffic using the road and there is a health risk for road users who may come in contact with any effluent that is spilt.” Where effluent is spilt on a state highway, it is the responsibility of Transit NZ to deal with it. Spills of effluent to all other roads and gutters is the responsibility of the local council. Mr Hide says any incident where effluent has been discharged into water in Canterbury should be referred to Environment Canterbury. “Where effluent enters ground or surface water it can contribute to microbial

contamination of water and nutrient enrichment that can lead to nuisance algae growth and potential health risks.” Environment Canterbury also recommend standing stock to reduce the volume of effluent being generated during transport. “This has been shown to have minimal effect on carcass weights and stock arrive in better condition,” says Mr Hide, adding that Canterbury has a good track record. “In the last 16 months, we’ve only had two incidents, both near Omarama. We don’t deal with a lot of issues of stock truck effluent entering waterways and there are six effluent disposal sites around the region to reduce the risk of overflow. Additionally, the farming and transport industries have worked

together to reduce the incidents of tank overflows in recent years.” The Industry Code of Practice for the Minimisation of Stock Effluent Spillage from Trucks on Roads also sets out the following recommendations: Dry feed such as hay, grain or meal can be used where standing stock is difficult and/or stock is being transported long distances. Prepare stock for transport by standing off pasture/crop, but with access to water. This step has the most potential to minimise stock effluent. The amount of time stock should be stood off feed prior to transport is usually four to eight hours. For more information on the code of practice visit the Environment Canterbury Regional Council website.

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GYPSY WEEK

CANTERBURY FARMING

May 2016

Discover Canterbury’s gems Canterbury has a vast array of activities and places to explore. From whale watching to mountain climbing, skiing, visiting art galleries and enjoying the array of fine local fare available across the region. If you are new to the area or have not ventured through the districts before, Canterbury is a place with many destinations to discover. Kaikoura is where mountains meet the sea, wildlife is plentiful, and fascinating history awaits. Kaikoura is a leading ecotourism destination, with a variety of marine and birdlife along its rugged coastline. Sperm whales, dusky dolphins, fur seals and albatross with migrating species make themselves known through changes in seasons. The gateway to the Canterbur y region, Christchurch has many experiences available. The Restart mall is an outdoor retail and cafe precinct built from shipping containers presented in an array of colours and designs. The mall has grown to approximately 40 retailers with a number of food caravans and a weekend market. Christchurch city can be explored by foot, on an open top bus, tram or explore in a punt on the Avon river.

The Selwyn district presents ski fields, and gardens along with food and wine opportunities. The district reaches from the Southern Alps and Arthur’s Pass, down the braided Rakaia and Waimakariri rivers and across the patchwork Canterbury plains to the vast coastal lake of Lake Ellesmere. Castle Hill is one of the best spots for bouldering and rock climbing. Skiers are drawn to the ‘Selwyn Six’ — ski fields that cater to snow buffs of all abilities. Stretching from the Southern Alps to the sea with Mount Hutt as a backdrop, Mid Canterbury has snowcapped mountains, rugged high country, glacial lakes and rushing rivers with traditional rural hospitality. Hakatere Conservation Park has nearly 60,000 hectares to explore inland from Ashburton. Discover craggy mountain country, beech forest, lakes and sparkling rivers including the Rakaia and Rangitata. Unearth historical gems at museums in Ashburton,

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Methven and Mt Somers. The Harness Racing Museum, Woodworking Museum and Aviation Museum have a large collection of planes and displays. Transpor t enthusiasts can view an impressive collection at Ashbur ton V intage Car Museum. Peel Forest has whitewater rafting and Caroline Bay sits at the heart of Timaru with a great play area for children. Visit Timaru’s Botanical Gardens, or admire the blooms at the Trevor Griffiths Rose Gardens. Explore the Te Ana Maori Rock Ar t Centre for an authentic cultural interpretation of some of New Zealand’s most significant examples of Maori rock art. Discover Pleasant Point Museum and Railway — with fully operational steam locomotives and the world’s only Model T Ford Railcar. Timaru’s Aigantighe Art Gallery boasts collections of national, international and local works at a host of galleries and check out the iconic Temuka Pottery Factory Shop.

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Water Ballast Rollers �� From $3,500 Gregoire Besson 5Mtr Discs �� $15,000 Taege 2 Bale Feeder ��$7,250 Hustler 2000 (Done a Lot of Work) ��$3,850 Dunhill 8 Furrow on land plough ��$3,500 Howard 80 AR Rotohoe Tidy ��Coming in Sulky DPX 28 Fert Spdr 2013 ��$6,900 Alo 1�5 Silage Grabs Shipment Arrived ��$5,000 Roller Rings 25 24”X3” Heavy �� Each $60 Cambridge Rollers 10ft,11ft & 22ft �� From $2,000 Grubber Trailing ��$6,750 Fieldmaster 3Mtr Gear drive ��$9,750 Kloughn25 Tyne Trailing Grubber (Very tidy) �� $11,250 Celli 2�5Mtrs Roto Hoe��$6,500 Aitchison 12Ft Maxitill ��$1,900 Hustler 8000 Bale Feeder�� $25,500 Unic Crane 220V Turbo ��$1,800 Gray 10FT Water Ballast Roller �� NEW POA Duncan 734 Direct Drill ��$9,750 Kverneland TLA 5�5 Maxitill ��$6,750 Ferguson 9Tyne Grubber c/w Moulders �� $600 Duncan 701 Drill C/W Eclipse Box ��$4,250 Case Tractor MX100C C/W loader �� Sell or Hire Cattle Ramp ��$2,400 Nobili BNG 310 Mulcher ��$8,250 Grader Blades �� From $500 Fiat 250 Tractor ��$2,000 Watson 6�3 Rollers www�walter-watson�co�uk ��In Stock Robertson Combi Waggon ��$6,000 Pearson Silage Grab Euro Fitting ��$3,700 Duncan 5 Leg Subsoiler as new ��$6,750 Topping Mowers �� From $1,500 Kuhn FC 202 4 Disc Mower Conditioner ��$3,500 Trimax Mulcher 1�5Mtr �� From $1,750 Tandem Trailer 4�1x2�45 Reg & wof ��$3,500 Trailer 2 Axles Turntable �� $10,000 Kverneland NG300 H4 Power Harrow ��$7,900 McHale Soft Hands ��New $3,150 Bale Forks �� From $650 Hustler 4000 Bale Feeder�� $10,500

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May 2016 CANTERBURY FARMING

GYPSY WEEK

by Ayla Miller Neil Goldie has a job many of us can only dream about. He makes a living out of taking people salmon and trout fishing in the Canterbury and West Coast region.

eil has been fishing since he was old enough to hold a rod and, like many boys, he was introduced to the sport by his father. Fifteen-years-ago when he was working for the government he became disillusioned with the way his life was turning out. He decided to make some changes and began his career as a fishing guide. “I had some very good friends who were fishing guides and they encouraged me to get into it as well,” said Neil. Amongst the many things he enjoys about this career

change, the highlight for him is having the opportunity to visit some of New Zealand’s most beautiful places. “It allows me to pit myself against the fish. I also get to meet some fantastic people and I really enjoy giving them the opportunity to savour and enjoy the fishing experience and the environment.” Through his work Neil has fished with all kinds of people, from film and sports stars to politicians, and says over the years he has gained a greater understanding of many different subjects as a result. “You have to have a certain type of personality,

interpersonal skills and good life skills to be a guide. You don’t just talk about fishing. You talk about everything from wine to international sport and even politics.” He tailors each trip to his client’s requirements and sometimes builds in other activities such as hot air ballooning and jet boating. “I have had a lot of people say that it is a dream lifestyle and it is. I’ve fished with some great people and have been able to get them the catch of a lifetime.” Neil is able to pass on his skills in terms of how to correctly use the gear, how

Neil Goldie, right, and his client Bob Tolman out on a successful fishing expedition

GYPSY WEEK

CANTERBURY FARMING

May 2016

Michelle Dotson with a Rakaia Salmon on one of Neil’s tours

• Get Connected • Stay Connected Angus Goldie with his first Salmon to hook the fish and to read the river. “I teach them river craft, where to find the fish, and how to fish the particular water. Different types of water require different techniques. You need an understanding of hydrology to capitalise on the situation,” he says. Despite fishing every day he still enjoys it as a hobby. “I have a few ‘busman’s holidays’ but it’s a passion,” he says. Often Neil takes people out who have never

been fishing before and finds it very rewarding seeing people’s reaction when they catch their first fish. “Once they have that first catch they are hooked for life. I go out in good weather and bad weather and at any opportunity. As a guide you are able to adapt to the conditions and to the environment to get the most fish.” His work has opened up opportunities for him to fish off shore in Australia, United

Kingdom and Alaska and he says these experiences have allowed him to learn more about fishing in different conditions although he hasn’t found anywhere that can compare to New Zealand for trout. Most of his skills have been learnt through trial and error although he says he is fortunate to have been mentored by Tony Entwistle who was one of the founding fishing guides in New Zealand, and who has acted

as a sounding board and offered invaluable advice. The most impor tant skills to have Neil says, are patience, adaptability, being observant and keeping a cool head. “There is a little bit of luck involved but above all people have to have a positive attitude. There is no point in going fishing if you don’t think you are going to catch anything.”

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CANTERBURY FARMING

EARTHMOVING

& MAINTENANCE

Three letters spell an earthmoving legacy by Andy Bryenton

In the late months of 1945, Europe lay in ruins. Somebody had to put the continent back on its feet, re-establishing the manufacturing and agricultural base decimated by war. It took a little determination and a little ingenuity to forge a new tool in this process, but it’s one which many earthmoving contractors, engineers and farmers would not be able to operate without today. Joseph Cyril Bamford bought his first welder in the year the war ended, renting a small lock-up garage of modest proportions to found what we would now call a ‘start up enterprise’. His welder cost all of one pound sterling, and he used it to fabricate a new kind of tipping trailer, using leftover plate metal from air-raid

shelters. That first trailer sold for 45 pounds — Bamford immediately built another. By 1948 he’d re-located from his garage to a coal yard and employed six people. Taking inspiration from the hydraulics developed during wartime for such applications as aeronautics and naval gunnery, Joseph created the first hydraulic tipping trailer

deck in Europe in that same year. By 1950 he had moved operations again to an old cheese factory in Rocester. Apocr yphally — though perhaps this is an urban myth — this was the reason he began painting all his machinery a bright ‘cheddar’ shade of yellow. Cheese aside, the combination of engineering and hydraulics,

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linked to listening to what the market wanted, led Bamford to what was likely his biggest breakthrough. in 1953 he launched his first backhoe loader, and in 1957 gave birth to the concept of the Hydradigger — a machine with an agricultural tractor at its core, but a scoop to the fore and a backhoe to the rear. The name was a play on words, referencing not just the advanced hydraulics which gave his machine the power of many men with shovels, but also the fearsome many-headed beast of Greek mythology. In the

legend, every head cut from the Hydra sprouted two more, and this could be seen as a fitting metaphor for the growth of Joseph’s JCB excavator company. The world grabbed hold of the practicality of the multi-purpose loader and backhoe, to the extent that ‘JCB’ is a kind of shorthand for such machines, entering the lexicon next to brand names made generic like Sellotape and Goodyear. Today, JCB operate 18 factories across nations as diverse as the United Kingdom, India and China. Their catalogue includes a

vast amount of permutation of the backhoe and loader combination, from small nimble machines up to huge militarised engineering versions. They have even broken the land speed record for diesel power, with the Dieselmax, piloted by Andy Green achieving an astonishing 350 miles per hour — painted, of course, in bright yellow livery. But it all began with one man, a single pound note, and a tiny garage. From that humble beginning, countless ear thmoving and building projects have been achieved.

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EARTHMOVING AND MAINTENANCE

CANTERBURY FARMING

May 2016

An innovation that’s no turkey In 1950s America new technology was changing almost every industry. The future was just around the corner and machines were replacing manpower in the bright post-war boom years. But these advances seemed to have passed by Minnesota turkey farmer Eddie Velo. He wanted a machine to help around the farm, loading feed and working inside the confines of his barn. So he turned to two local brothers for help, and the rest is history. Louis and Cyril Keller operated a welding and repair shop in the town of Rothsay, near Velo’s farm. When the turkey farmer laid out his need for a small, nimble loader machine, far smaller and more agile than the big excavators on the market — the pair got right to work, in the way engineers have of thinking through a problem to a solution. The result was a three-wheeled mini loader light enough and versatile enough to help — but the brothers also saw further potential in their design. Swapping out belt drive for a re-worked clutch system, the pair created a mini four wheeled skidsteering machine which their uncle helped them market through his employer, the Melroe Manufacturing Company. Seeing the options for a wider market than just turkey farms, Melroe took the newly minted machine to the Minnesota State Fair of 1958, where it caused quite a stir. Running with the fact that their skid-steer was compact, tough and agile, the brothers named it after one of the apex predators in

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their homeland — the hardy little bobcat. It was a case of rapid expansion, leading to the adoption of the bobcat all over the world. New Zealand was the perfect environment for this little machine, as our far-flung rural settlements meant plenty of work for an earthmover able to squeeze into tight spaces, handle the worst terrain, and adapt to a huge variety of roles. Today, the word ‘Bobcat’ has come to mean a skid-steer to many, though the name strictly

should only refer to machines made by the original company. Nevertheless, the sheer number of attachments manufactured for the diminutive skid-steer speak to its ubiquity. You can fit out a Bobcat with an auger drill, a trenching saw, a gorse slasher, a stump grinder, wood chipper or pallet forks. Kiwis will definitely be familiar with the stubby, wedge-shaped bucket which has broken in more soil than any number of ploughs across

the nation. Uniquely, skilled operators can use a nimble skid steer to dig a hole from the inside — something which appeals to our numbereight-wire mentality, and allows operations where bigger machines fear to tread. So, while the number of applications for the original bobcat continues to grow, the tidy, compact design once pioneered for turkey farming continues to excel in a range of industries far removed from eggs and feathers.

Barry Whittaker Contracting has been maintaining the region’s farms for over thirty years. The Rutmaster provides a simple and cost-effective solution. Shingle, clay or lime chip is dropped into the ruts, filling them in no time. The Rutmaster fills 400/500mm wide ruts and material can be sourced either from the farm or can be supplied. Rutmaster blade - Returns shoulder soil into the rut, reducing the amount of material required. Great end results.

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May 2016

EARTHMOVING AND MAINTENANCE

CANTERBURY FARMING

The power to move mountains by Andy Bryenton

When the first European settlers came to Canterbury the best means at their disposal for moving earth was the application of blood, sweat and effort — the simple mechanics of men and shovels. Ably assisted by bullocks and Clydesdale horses, these hardy pioneers set to taming the land — and while some of their undertakings defy belief when considered in the light of their existing technology, it would be steam and finally diesel which truly forged the infrastructure of the region. The first machines to replace manpower and beasts were the traction engines which found a popular market in the Canterbury colony. Initially used for agricultural purposes

as well as heavy duty work, these iron behemoths were employed in numbers never before seen to undertake a massive earthmoving and engineering achievement — the construction of the

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Coleridge dam, New Zealand’s first hydro-electric scheme on a large scale. In this era, just over a century ago — the diesel engine had already been invented, but there was little supply of either internal combustion machines or their fuel to the Canterbury region. On the other hand, the veterans of an entire steam-powered gold rush and their machines were at hand — massive steam shovels and of course the traction engines themselves. Something more was needed, though, before earthmoving on a truly epic scale could occur, building up the city of Christchurch as well as the rural infrastructure of the plains. A step forward was taken during the horrors of the Somme, when, a century ago this year, the fruits of the soon-to-be-legendary Winston Churchill’s gloriously titled ‘Imperial Land Ship Project’ were unleashed on the German lines at the battle of Flers-Courcelette. Hard-bitten Kiwi troops were chosen to back up the first ever tanks,

and many would have noted the Caterpillar tracks which made short work of tough terrain. A combination of those linked tracks and diesel combustion proved just the ticket in the years between the world wars — as the big yellow Caterpillar brand came to these shores in force. Combining the diesel engines which had advanced by leaps and bounds as maritime power plants during the war with the tracked layout pioneered in America in the 20s gave us the Caterpillar bulldozer and its many variants. New Zealand took to the ‘Cat’ in such a fashion that for three heady years — 1937, 38 and 39 — Kiwi Caterpillar distributor Gough, Gough and Hamer topped world sales figures. From ‘small’ steam-driven projects like the Coleridge dam we moved on to bigger and better things — such as the mighty Benmore dam, commissioned in the 1950s and to this day the largest earth-filled water retaining structure

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Steam-powered machines like this replaced muscles and shovels but were in turn superseded by the power of diesel in construction

in the country. That’s some serious earthmoving! Today we’re entering a new age of earthmoving machinery, as hybrid and electric machines slowly catch up and overtake the mighty diesel. Caterpillar’s D7E hybrid ‘dozer has already touched down in North Otago,

where two of the big yellow beasts are hard at work moving earth. just as steam replaced the old colonial ‘navvies’, and was in its turn replaced by diesel power, it may well be electricity which carries the industry into a cleaner, greener and more powerful future.

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EARTHMOVING AND MAINTENANCE

CANTERBURY FARMING

May 2016

Replenishing the workforce The earthmoving and heavy machinery industry is a vital one, both in urban and rural New Zealand. From the ‘grass roots’ of farming, where roads, races, dams and more must be constructed with the aid of diggers and bulldozers, through to the multi-billion-dollar roading projects dictated by central government, there’s always a need for those wheels and tracks to keep rolling. That’s why it’s vital to ensure that a new generation of machinery operators come up through the ranks, filling the drivers’ seats in years to come. A ‘crunch’ in the industry is predicted as the demand for earthmoving operators increases — for example, 13 billion dollars is slated for national roading alone between now and 2018 — but not only is the current skill base ageing, it’s also slow to be replenished by new graduates. Part of this comes down to the requirements to get into the industry now as opposed to in the past. The old method of advancement through opportunity, learning on the job and upskilling when new machines were commissioned has been replaced with a fixed tertiary-

level training pathway in civil plant operation. Part of this is for reasons of health and safety, and part reflects the relative complexity and power of modern machines as opposed to their forebears. Nevertheless, with over half of bulldozer drivers and near to half of grader drivers over the age of 55, it’s a seachange in attitudes which may see young people adopt this profession. With most courses in civil plant and heavy machinery operation boasting an 85 percent rate of flow-through to good, well paid employment, there’s certainly an incentive there for young people not interested in purely academic tertiary training. A basic course in civil plant operation is also relatively inexpensive by comparison with other tertiary studies,

and can last only 26 weeks on average — a fast track to real employment. This acknowledges the fact that there is still much to learn once the new operator first gets behind the controls on a ‘live’ worksite. Seasoned drivers will agree that a lifetime of skill and practice is what teaches finesse when operating a multi-ton excavator, for example. And, as new machinery becomes available or familiar designs are modified for ease of use, more versatility or more power, this is also a career which lends itself to constant upskilling, with internal training programmes undertaken by many large earthmoving and construction companies to keep their team up to date with the most cutting-edge tech in the business.

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CANTERBURY FARMING

EARTHMOVING AND MAINTENANCE

Bright yellow, impressively green by Andy Bryenton

With a burgeoning population and massive advances in infrastructure needed to cater to their expectations of standards of living, commerce — and not least, the agricultural base to feed them — there are few nations on earth who do not need a massive fleet of construction machines. But here, as with road vehicles, a catch 22 exists. How to get all that power to the worksite, while preserving the planet itself? Caterpillar, along with a select few other top machinery manufacturers are taking a step into new territory to solve this problem.

John Deere have their diesel-electric 644K wheel loader, and Komatsu have innovated electrical ‘energy recapture’ technology into their HB215LC-1 excavator, using electric motors to swivel the cab and bucket on its base. However, the

first of these new hybrids to touch down in New Zealand is a bulldozer by Caterpillar — the D7E. Strictly speaking, this large tracked vehicle — dubbed the ‘green monster’ despite its yellow livery — is not a true hybrid, but a dieselelectric unit, as motive power

Prime mover — the Cat D7E packs the same kind of powertrain as a diesel locomotive for maximum torque

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which each weigh in at about 270 kilos, put out about 215 horsepower. This may seem small by supercar hybrid standards but with over 2000 Newton-metres of torque, it’s easy to see the intent of the D7E — moving one huge amount of material, fast. Caterpillar, like many car manufacturers, knew that their foray into hybrid power would be heavily scrutinised, so they undertook extensive in-house testing to make sure the D7E was every bit as competent in the field as their other conventionally driven products. These tests included frequent changes in direction; climbing 45-degree inclines; and being able to slog through mud, water, and garbage. To stop intrusive sand, mud, grit and other

substances messing with the drivetrain, every electrical component is fully sealed and liquid cooled. This is no mere environmental publicity stunt. With clean air regulations coming into force around the world, it’s not only automobiles which must change to suit the prevalent green thinking of modern times. With massive projects underway to help save the environment — think hydro dams, solar farms, and gigasized battery factories — it’s ‘dozers and diggers’ which will lead the charge. The fact that they, too will likely be hybrid or electric is easily as important a factor as any number of Teslas or Priuses hitting the highway.

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comes from electric motors but is generated onboard by a 9.3 litre diesel engine. If this setup sounds familiar, it is — the dieselelectric layout has a long history of powering big, imposing machines. Pioneered in part for the submarine fleets of World War Two, the diesel-electric powertrain is used in actual trains — so torque was never going to be an issue. Thanks to the electric motor there are no gears on the D7E and power is infinitely variable. This has paid dividends, with operators impressed by the smoothness of the big Cat’s controls. It’s also roughly ten percent more powerful than its purely diesel fired stablemate, the D7R mk II. Those twin electric motors

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EARTHMOVING AND MAINTENANCE

The earthmoving job of them all New Zealand has always had the attitude that we can do anything — that in sports, science, agriculture and the arts, our small size means nothing as we can show the big boys on the international stage a thing or two. In 1958 that attitude — and the need for plentiful electrical power to feed a surge in technology and the standard of living — led to the biggest earthmoving job of all, right here in Canterbury.

CANTERBURY FARMING

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HEADER

Repairs & Spares • Concaves Manufactured new for all makes and models. Built specially for NZ conditions. Also repairs and alterations.

• Drums & Bars Manufactured and repaired. Massive scale — this panoramic view of the Benmore Dam gives some sense of the scale of the earthmoving feat it represents

At the time of its announcement, the Benmore Dam project must have seemed a feast of impossible numbers. Over 1250 workers, in command of 160 of the most powerful bulldozers, excavators, scrapers and trucks of the day, would construct an earth dam of a size never before seen in this hemisphere. With a crest rising over 118 metres and running for nearly a kilometer, the dam itself would be nearly half a kilometer wide, holding back the nation’s biggest man made lake, holding 12.5 million cubic litres of water. That’s one and a half times the volume of Wellington Harbour, in a lake made not by nature but by human ingenuity and a fleet of D8 and D9 Caterpillar tractors, along with DW21 scrapers and a host of other diesel machines. This would be a mammoth task today, but in 1958 it seemed herculean.

Remember that in the same part of the country, just a few decades earlier, the Lake Coleridge dam had been constructed entirely with the help of steam traction engines. The leap forward in technology was astounding, and so, too, was the mobilisation of manpower to get the job done. A new town, Otematata, was created just to house the workers and their families, complete with sporting clubs, schools, entertainment facilities and homes. At its peak, the town swelled to a population of over 4000, while thousands more came from the city on day trips just to watch the machinery work. To make the huge concrete ‘penstocks’ which fed water into the turbines, a second hand concrete plant was imported from Hawaii — Pearl Harbour, to be precise, where it had been used to reconstruct the United states naval

base there following the devastating wartime attack by Japan. Of course, it was the single largest work site in New Zealand history at the time and lessons learned from the construction of the colossal dam and its hardware were passed on by the workers who crewed those heavy machines. More than a few ear thmoving companies founded in the late 20th century were crewed by

workers who had taken part in raising the Benmore dam, and though many years have passed and the vast majority of those men have now retired, the construction job they completed is still a legend. And it’s still running strong, with six 90 megawatt turbines delivering power to the North Island, in a feat of ‘generosity’ which Southerners are unlikely to let their northern mates forget.

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May 2016

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May 2016

FENCING

Competing down to the wire by Andy Bryenton

Fencing has always been a part of Kiwi farming — with a massive amount of land to tame and break down into useful pasture the work of post boring, wire tensioning and batten fixing seems to go on mile after mile. However, for some hardas-nails customers this essential rural chore is more than just a job. They’ve taken it further and made it a sport. The same kind of friendly competition which saw sheep dog trials grow out of the mustering culture of the Canterbury sheep stations and the wild Mackenzie country has sparked rivalries among farmers in all kinds of fields. And it’s not just farmers, either. Competitive coal shovelling and gold panning came from the tough men of the goldfields and West Coast. Our shearers regularly beat the world in wrangling wool. So it’s no surprise that fencers, proud of their speed and skill, have developed their own sport, with their own governing body. New Zealand Fencing Competitions (NZFC) came together formally in 2013, but there’s a long standing tradition of fencing events at field days and A and P shows, dating back to last century. Knowing the Kiwi psyche, there have likely been fencing challenges for as long as hard-working fencers gathered together for a pint after a long day on the land. What the NZFC have done is create a framework for a standardised competition, and set the stage for a truly prestigious national title — the Golden Pliers. This trophy is the ultimate goal for all competitive fencers and is set to be contested again in the near future at the grand national championship of fencing, the Wiremark Golden Pliers Singles event at Mystery Creek, a part of the National Fieldays calendar. It’s a grueling test of endurance and meticulous skill. Competitors must each assemble a 50 metre long fence by hand, with the only power tools allowed being a chainsaw and a post hole borer. The finished product is a nine wire post, wire and

batten fence complete with diagonal end assemblies and a pipe gate. The race is against the clock, and takes on average four-anda-half hours — equivalent to many endurance sports races. Unlike a cycle race or marathon however, there are judges present every step of the way, ready to mark down the slightest hint of shoddy workmanship. Mental discipline is as important as physical strength as the clock ticks and the fence takes shape. There are also competitions for doubles fencing — the premiere grade being the fieldays Silver Spades. Teamwork is key here, and some great teams have come out of New Zealand at both this national level and at a regional one, where post driver legends Fairbrother Industries are big supporters of the sport. They were the hosts when Taumarunui team, Bill Brewer and Simon Green, managed to erect 30 battens on a nine wire fence in 2014 — in just 11 minutes and 38 seconds.

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May 2016

CANTERBURY FARMING

FENCING

Driven to succeed In the days before the advent of the posthole borer or post rammer, fencing was a much tougher task indeed. Just looking at those long lines of battens ranging across the plains and hilltops, and considering building them without the aid of mechanical muscle is enough to give the staunchest farmer a twinge in his lower back.

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Post ramming technology grew out of the machines used to drill bridge pilings and even to drill for oil — raising a weighted rod with a sharp tip and letting it fall. It has been adapted and improved over the years into the tractormounted units which modern farmers find indispensible. Now that technology has taken another leap forward thanks to some very clever design and thinking by a Kiwi company — Fairbrother Industries. Their Kinghitter post drivers have become known as a benchmark in the fencing and rural construction trades, after the invention of the first hydraulic post driver by Jim Fairbrother back in 1977. That’s a proper Kiwi first — demanded by the dictates of fencing in the kind of rugged country only New Zealand can provide. The Fairbrother family have carried on the tradition for over three decades, culminating in their Series Four — the ‘Rolls Royce of post bangers’, which brings Jim’s and their vision to a new level. According to the engineers, it’s all about giving operators more choice, more access, and more options to fence where lesser machines fear to tread. The key to this versatility is a low transport profile coupled with a fully positionable base. Hydraulic actuators position the butt of the post at any angle over a metre away from the back of the tractor which acts as the Kinghitter’s power supply and

carrier vehicle. Hydraulic legs offer impressive stability on any slope or surface — you can see that this machine was designed by fencing contractors, backed up by a top team of engineers. In fact, the series 4 is so good it’s used by none other than Queen Elizabeth II on her Balmoral estate. Though perhaps it’s not the monarch at the wheel of the tractor.

Fairbrother Industries are also keen supporters of fencing competitions, presiding over the 2014 contest in which the team of Simon Green and Jarrod Nicholson constructed a ninewire fence in an astonishingly quick 11 minutes 7 seconds. At that kind of speed, the champion pair are edging up on the kind of performance offered by the King Hitter itself.

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CANTERBURY FARMING

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CALVING

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DAIRY

CANTERBURY FARMING

May 2016

DoloZest ® CalciZest

Soil Matters with Peter Burton Gr

ow i

ng Smar

A way up for pastoral farmers

te r

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ce 2010

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Do you realise that the amount of carbon in your soils affects how much they produce? DoloZest A very readable and informative paper on soil carbon produced by the Bay of Plenty Regional Authority in 2011 contains the following passage: ‘Most pastoral soils in New Zealand are generally considered to be rich in organic carbon so large increases in productivity are not expected by adding more organic matter. ‘However recent research has shown that in intensive lowland livestock systems (eg dairying), soils have lost organic carbon by an average of 1.0 tonne carbon/ha/ year over the last 20–30 years while in hilly land soils, organic carbon levels have increased’. While 1.0 tonne/ha is a very small percentage of total soil-held carbon each year the loss of each tonne is a greater proportion of the remainder. Think of it as compounding interest in reverse. In the short term a small loss has little effect, however soil carbon largely dictates pasture and total farm production and less carbon ultimately leads to lower output. And why the difference between hilly and lowland livestock systems? There’s a school of thought that it can be directly linked to the steady increase in fertiliser nitrogen applications to flatter country since urea from Kapuni came on stream around 1990. Graham Shepherd the owner of Bioagrinomics, the producer of the widely used and highly respected Visual Soil Assessment wrote

recently: ‘our GHG emissions have doubled since 1990. Our groundwater, lakes and rivers are becoming increasingly contaminated with nitrogen and phosphorus and soil C levels are decreasing, particularly under high-N dairying and conventional cropping regimes’. However, not all intensive pastoral operations are suffering from a loss in soil carbon and a correspondingly lower pasture production. The soil on a long-term Functional Fertiliser client’s property, measured in 2012, contained 22% more Total Carbon in the top 30cm than a neighbouring property, where in excess of 200kg N/ ha was regularly applied. The Functional Fertiliser client applies less than 25kgN/ha annually and, based on independent Overseer modelling, grew 19,300kgDM/ha in the 2011/12 season, 1,800kg more per hectare than the neighbouring high-N property. The small amount of N applied in autumn reduces the vigour of lower value summer grasses by stimulating rye and other cooler temperature growing species prior to winter. Although one season provides only a snapshot in time, the 23% increase in pasture production on this farm from 15,600kg to 19,300 kgDM/ha since 2008, indicates soil carbon is steadily lifting. Pasture production to the end of April this year (2016) will be close to 21,000kgDM/ ha. The importance of soil

organic matter, measured as soil carbon, is in its ability to store both nutrient and moisture. Increased nutrient storage means stronger growth throughout spring, particularly during the often troublesome November period. Extra growth in November means better fed cows and higher in-calf rates, along with a wedge of feed allowing greater intervals between grazings to be achieved, and more feed available over the summer period. Increased moisture holding capacity improves summer pasture growth, lessening the impact of dry weather. Not only is more moisture available for plant uptake. Organic substances can hold up to five times their own weight in water, and higher amounts of organic matter result in improved physical soil structures. Better physical structures mean plant roots are able to penetrate further, allowing them access to moisture and nutrient from a lower depth. Which means plants grow longer into dry periods and recover more quickly as conditions become favourable. Winter and spring growth are also enhanced as excess moisture drains more freely and, as soils with more organic matter are darker, they absorb more solar radiation, resulting in earlier warming. Full nutrient programmes based on DoloZest and CalciZest, the two unique soil improvers developed by Functional Fertiliser have,

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over 15 years of use, provided 0800 843 809 07 362 7288 intensive dairy farmer clients www.esi.org.nz with more total pasture of higher quality, spread over a twelve-month period, without using year round fertiliser nitrogen. For more information call Peter on 0800 843 809.

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New Canadian manufactured Heavy Duty Cultivator from Pluck’s Starting at 6.8 Meters Wide x 30 Legs, at 9" or 7" Centres x 4.6 Tonnes Very narrow transport width of 3.9 m or 13 ft.

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May 2016

DAIRY

CANTERBURY FARMING

Water focus for election candidate by Paul Campbell

Widespread pollution of Canterbury rivers and waterways, with dairying in the firing line once again, may have a champion with a louder voice with the general manager of North Canterbury Fish and Game, Rod Cullinane, standing for election to Environment Canterbury. Mr Cullinane says says the organisation has lost its way since losing democratic representation and has been an outspoken critic of the regime led by ECan’s governmentappointed commissioners. The news will also no doubt please Sustainable Otautahi Christchurch,

which campaigns for the environmental enhancement of the city and the province. It recently posted an open letter to politicians to raise concerns about ‘how we are managing our freshwater resources in Canterbury’ on behalf of the Coalition for Clean Water, comprising of North Canterbury Fish and

DR200SE

TROJAN FARMBIKE

Game, North Canterbury Forest and Bird Protection Society, the Malvern Hills Protection Society, the Orari River Protection Group and the Water Rights Trust The coalition says ‘under current farming practices, one day there will be no fishing, swimming or drinking across much of the Plains — already fishing and swimming are severely restricted, and the pollution of drinking water is climbing steadily in some parts of the region’. It claims dairy farms contribute 80% of pollution with 1,200,000 cows on the land in 2015. ‘The effect on aquifers takes decades to become apparent, but is now badly impacting streams and smaller rivers’. It adds that ‘increasing nitrate concentrations, largely from intensive dairying, are damaging the life-supporting ecology of rivers and streams, and the impact on drinking water across the region is becoming increasingly

apparent. This pollution is not just from dairy farming but also from cattle wading, in many other places besides Lake Taylor, and Lake Ellesmere. The government has recently announced a new penalty regime designed to reduce animal access to waterways but continues to avoid the more difficult issue of diffuse nitrate pollution from animal urine’. Mr Cullinane says that ECan has allowed for unsustainable land intensification and overallocated water resources. “Current and future generations expect our fresh waterways to be swimmable and not polluted to the extent they are only wadeable, or toxic to the extent they kill fish and other aquatic and land-based animals. “More of the same from ECan is both inappropriate and unacceptable.” October’s elections will be Ecan’s first since 2007,

Rod Cullinane standing for election

after the former elected council was sacked by the government in 2010 due to poor performance. Seven elected councillors will join up to six appointed commissioners, two of whom

will be chosen by Ngai Tahu. Four councillors will be elected from Christchurch and one each elected from North, Mid and South Canterbury. A fully-elected council is expected to return in 2019.

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DAIRY

Hoof Print with Fred Hoekstra

CANTERBURY FARMING

May 2016

HOOF TRIMMING SERVICES, EQUIPMENT & TRAINING

Do we have Laminitis? I have just been running some trimming workshops on the West Coast and found myself regularly confronted with the continuing acceptance that physical force is the main contributor to lameness in New Zealand, together with a reluctance to accept that Laminitis is a very real problem here. So, do we have laminitis in New Zealand? There are people who believe we don’t because ‘it has not been proven’.

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outer claw deformed much more often than the inner claw? Why do most cows go lame on the rear hooves if they only carry 40% of the weight? Why do we see mostly the outside claws displaying these symptoms if this is supposed to be the claw with the most protection? Why does it have a positive effect on the cow when we take some of that protection away by trimming? Think about it. How do you explain all those things from a physical force point of view? Research overseas has shown that diet and stress have a major impact on lameness. I know we are in New Zealand, but if it looks like a duck, it quacks like a duck, it waddles like a duck and it flies like a duck it probably is a duck. We need

to understand this properly because it will affect our management style — all of a sudden, controlled starvation becomes a problem rather than a tool, only one water trough may not be enough, and having cows out of the paddock for long periods of time becomes an issue, and the list goes on. I do not understand why people deny that laminitis is in dairy cows in New Zealand. I do not see any reason for that especially when the evidence so clearly points in that direction. Just for the record, I believe that just about every cow in New Zealand has some degree of laminitis in their feet. In the majority of cases it is not severe enough to be a problem for the cow. However,

I believe it is by far the biggest cause of lameness on our dairy farms. Let me know your thoughts, email me at fred@veehof.co.nz

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What difference would it make? Why would we care? I believe that if you really want to solve a problem, you need to know what causes the problem. How else are you going to solve it? I believe that if we try to keep lameness under control by solving all the physical issues then we are only solving the symptoms. So, what is my point? When I talk about laminitis I am talking about an unhealthy live tissue in the hoof caused by internal imbalances. The symptoms of an unhealthy live tissue are haemorrhaging, holes and cracks, deformed hoofs and just about anything else we see wrong with the hoof. Most people mistakenly assume that all those symptoms are caused by standing on stones and other ‘sharp objects’, or ‘pushing cows too hard’ and therefore adding too much pressure on the hooves. The problem here is that this has never been proven to be the case. However, the fact that those symptoms are mainly a domestic cow issue and not so much a wild cow issue shows that there has to be more going on than just physical forces. I would argue that a cow in the wild is a lot harder on her hooves than a domestic cow on our farms. The fact that those symptoms are more cow-related than hoof-related raises questions. Why are those symptoms symmetrical on both feet on most cows? That doesn’t make sense if it was caused by physical force. Also, why do we see haemorrhaging up on the dorsal wall? How could physical force be the cause of that? Why do we see the

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LIVESTOCK

CANTERBURY FARMING

Corporation’s shareholder roadshow by Paul Campbell

The Livestock Improvement Corporation (LIC) is to hold a series of shareholder meetings around the country, setting off in Gore on June 7 to advise farmer shareholders of proposed changes to the cooperative’s capital structure, and to encourage discussion on the issue. LIC chairman, Murray King, says the roadshow will be an opportunity for shareholders to learn more about the

proposal, and what it means for the cooperative. “Key points to be raised and discussed include

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separating LIC’s operations into two separate businesses, creating a genetics/herd improvement cooperative, working with New Zealand’s dairy farmers,” he said. “The other company will concentrate on agricultural technology, bringing the existing agri-technology activities under a new corporate structure. “This new business would also invest in new and innovative products, servicing customers in New Zealand and offshore.” The meetings will discuss how separation has the potential to create value and provide options for the future and LIC says that there may be potential for noncooperative shareholders to invest in a portion of the agritechnology company. This would be subject to a shareholder vote in 2017 should the LIC board decide to proceed with this aspect of the proposal. “As part of LIC’s strategy we have been talking with our shareholders about a need to review our capital structure

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for some time,” Mr King said. “Our thinking has progressed to a point where we can now provide an update on plans to unlock opportunities and value in the business, and seek shareholder feedback on the proposed changes. More information was being made available to shareholders and was to be released to the market and published on LIC’s website by Tuesday May 31. “All shareholders are encouraged to attend the meetings. We look forward to their feedback and questions and to sharing information about the proposal to enable LIC to realise its potential,” says Mr King. The LIC shareholder roadshow dates for the South Island are on Tuesday June 7, in Gore from 10am– 12pm at the Heartland Hotel Croydon and later in the day at Ashburton from 7pm–9pm at the Hotel Ashburton at 1135 Racecourse Road. There will be a third meeting in Nelson on Wednesday June 8 from 10.30am–12pm at Seifried Estate Winery in Appleby. Currently LIC generate revenues of $200-

Murray King LIC chairman

plus million, planned to expand to $1 billion by 2025. Among other factors, the cooporation plans to achieve this by providing genetics and information to create superior livestock, create synergies through mergers and acquisitions

with a renewed emphasis on international markets. With Callaghan Innovation crown entity and the government’s Primary Growth Partnership, LIC is one of the largest private investors in agriculture research and development.

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LIVESTOCK

CANTERBURY FARMING

May 2016

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Deer farmer confidence causing headaches The decision of many deer farmers to rebuild their hind breeding herds after a decade of destocking is creating short-term supply headaches for venison exporters. “A 22% drop in the venison kill in the first four months of 2016 reflects the fact that farmers are retaining young hinds for breeding instead of sending them to slaughter,” says Deer Industry NZ (DINZ) chief executive, Dan Coup. “This is a great vote of confidence in the future of deer farming but it does make it difficult for exporters to cater for the needs of their customers in overseas markets. “They need to know how much venison is coming down the pipeline and when it’s likely to arrive. “So I really encourage farmers to get in touch with their venison buyer now and discuss their likely production through to the end of the year. Letting them know in November will be too late for them to plan.” Processor representatives say their initial response to the drop in the kill was to reduce the number of shifts at their processing plants and to encourage staff to make use of their leave entitlements. In the longerterm, reducing working hours creates staff retention issues because skilled staff want to be working full-time to maintain their incomes. Mr Coup says future venison production is hard to predict, but the apparently high level of hind retention means that long-term venison production will recover more quickly than if the switch from destocking to retention had

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Venison being boned in a deer slaughter plant. A reduced supply of hinds for venison means some overseas customers will go short

been more muted. “If so, this is great for the industry in the long-term because it means we are on a recovery track but in the meantime it is going to create a few headaches for venison processors and marketers,” he said. In the marketplace, a significant reduction in supply means exporters will be unable to maintain supply to all customers — some of them of long standing. But it is unlikely to drive venison schedule prices massively higher than they have been in the last 12 months. “Market prices could increase slightly but the price gap between venison and other high-end meats has doubled in the last year and there is a limit to what consumers will pay. Exporters

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have to take care not to take prices to the point where chefs remove venison from the menu,” says Duncan New Zealand marketing general manager, Glenn Tyrrell. Then there’s the currency factor. Since the last chilled season, Mr Tyrrell says the NZ dollar has increased 5% against both the US dollar and Euro. This has wiped around 40 c/kg from net schedule and farm gate prices. For their part, farmers can help maintain venison supply without narrowing their options by slaughtering all hinds scanned as dry and more aggressively culling the bottom end of velvetting herds.

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May 2016

LIVESTOCK

CANTERBURY FARMING

Wool Perspective

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Wool market rebounds well after slight stagger

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After what had been a very healthy season for wool selling, with almost total clearances at every auction, the market got the staggers on April 21 in Christchurch as exporters struggled to find homes for the relatively small offering of less than 10,000 bales. However by May 5 the market had taken a turn for the better again with most of the losses in April reversed, and on May 19 in Christchurch a good strong tone had emerged once again. The mix of wool types offered for sale during late April through until mid-May was of a wide variety with many drought affected, but mainly crossbred fleece (including second-shear fleece), crossbred lamb’s fleece, plus crossbred oddments. Several lines of crossbred lamb’s fleece were re-offered during May after failing earlier in the calendar year to reach grower reserves, however a number of growers remained disappointed as limited demand for lamb’s was obvious. A few halfbred/Corriedale fleece types (including a handful of hogget types) and a selection of oddments both fine and coarse, made up the balance of the offerings. Analyses of South Island wool auctions during the April and May period showed that perhaps a larger than usual proportion of the wools catalogued were affected by vegetable matter contamination (vm, eg seeds, straw, sticks, etc), much of which can prove difficult to remove during processing, simply because of the nature of the wool types. The presence of vm, whilst not necessarily of concern in some wool types destined for a worsted processing system, can create problems when processed via the

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woolen and/or semi-worsted systems. Along with the more noticeable (than in earlier catalogues) vm contamination to many of the crossbreds, the strength of the Kiwi dollar, both at its eight-month high near US$0.70 around April 21, and its softer US$0.67 around May 19, was also an influence in assisting price fluctuation during the period. At the beginning of each season, exporters and brokers meet to agree auction sale dates for the ensuing wool season and to predict their best estimates concerning bale numbers, likely to be offered at each of those auctions. The pre-season work is necessary not only because the auction system remains the predominant first point

of trade for the local wool industry, but also and more importantly, to assist New Zealand Wool Exporters assess their financial, wool scouring and shipping requirements for the following twelve months and to advise international customers of the anticipated availability and approximate quantities of specific wool types throughout the season. For the majority of the current auction season to date, all brokers have struggled to fill their catalogues, up to the originally rostered bale quantity for each sale, due mainly to the seemingly ever decreasing New Zealand sheep population, something which has, in itself, created an urgency from exporters bidding to ensure they secure

their requirements. Despite fluctuating prices, when compared to last year at a similar time as well as to the previous couple of seasons, the overall depth and strength of the market for at least the foreseeable future appears very good, as most of New Zealand’s wool trading partners have indicated their desire to continue including our wonderful wool fibres in their finished products. Recent visits to New Zealand by several overseas manufacturers have proven extremely positive. June 2, 16, and 30 are scheduled for the final Christchurch auctions of the 2015/16 wool season. Hopefully the market will continue to be buoyant. That’s my view.

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RURAL WHEELS

CANTERBURY FARMING

May 2016

Not just a pretty face by Andy Bryenton

The demand for safety in modern vehicles has led to ever more stringent tests being applied as cars go through the design process. For those who love well-crafted metal, the sight of the gruelling rounds of crash tests meted out by the ANCAP trial facility can be difficult to watch, as brand new machines are smashed, mashed, mangled and slammed into concrete blocks, all in the name of passenger safety. It’s a deliberate trial to destruction and very few vehicles make the highest grade. Which is why the five star rating achieved by Kia’s new Sportage SUV is all the more important — it’s the first sports utility for 2016 to pass with a gold rating, earning five out of five in the torturous crash course. Todd McDonald, General Manager of Kia Motors New Zealand, says the result underlines the ongoing efforts by Kia Motors to develop vehicles that are at the forefront of safety technology. “The new Sportage had already achieved a Euro NCAP 5-star rating, with the test carried out at the end of 2015. The ANCAP test for vehicles sold in New Zealand and Australia has progressed a step further, with our Sportage achieving five stars under the more stringent rules applied in 2016,” explains Mr McDonald. Aside from the obvious

benefits to passengers of such a high focus on safety, the fourth generation Sportage ticks many other boxes as well. Progressing from the ver y popular and well received mark three, the 2016 Sportage boasts a suite of active electronic and mechanical systems to prevent crashes from ever happening in the first place. These include Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert on all but the LX model. While the Limited and GT line models not only gain Autonomous Emergency Braking, but also include Lane Departure Warning and Forward Collision Warning systems, as well as High Beam Assist, which detects approaching vehicles and automatically dims the headlights from high to low beam. Add this to a sharp new design and a choice of four model variants, including a

The 2016 Kia Sportage boasts safety features which grant it the highest possible safety rating

frugal and powerful common rail 2-litre turbo diesel, and it’s easy to see why Kia have high hopes for the popularity of this new model on Kiwi roads.

As with many small SUVs these days, the Sportage has evolved away from an angular, slab-sided off-roader toward the profile of a large

hatchback — packing in the practicality of a station wagon with the styling of a much smaller around-town car. Kia’s continuing design aesthetic,

established by the legendary Peter Schreyer and set to be carried on by other top names, like ex-Bentley design guru Luc Donckerwolke.

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CANTERBURY FARMING

Battle lines are drawn There’s no feud like a family feud. Just one comment at Christmas dinner about Auntie Irene’s new haircut and it’s more than the turkey which gets carved. It’s the same in the rivalry between in-house brands under one overarching automotive umbrella. Look at the implosion of British Leyland — who famously were not on speaking terms between factories, leading to the disastrous Triumph Stag V6 debacle — or the tussle for control within the monster which is VW, Audi, Porsche and bad-boy-brother Lamborghini. Competition is a good thing and competitors spur us on to greatness. But when they are technical bedfellows — well, the comparisons

and contests are that much closer. That’s why the focus is on North American power sports giant Polaris, who are far from content simply to slug it out for dominance in the world of ATVs and snowmobiles. As the masters of both the Victory and Indian brands of road bike, Polaris are happy to foster a little rivalry between the ‘kids’. Though in this case, the differences between the classic cool of the Indian

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Scout and the menacing, muscle-car-inspired Victory Octane put them in two very different classes of their own. And their aim is a two-pronged attack on the dominance of the elephant in the room — Harley Davidson. The Scout does more than just tip its hat to the classic, retro style of its famous forebears — and the speed record monster built by Kiwi Burt Munro. By contrast, the Octane sports a longer profile, bigger wheels and an

aggressively modern ‘blacked out’ look. While both bikes share about thirty per cent of their parts, including the fraternal adoption of a clever aluminium and steel frame layout, the finished look, feel and handling of both machines is as different as a precision chef’s knife is from a military bayonet. Both are very sharp tools, but made to excel in different hands. There’s a tiny tweak in engine size, too, from 1,133cc to 1,179cc, but

with both bikes roaring up to 100km/h in the foursecond bracket, such minor differences will be scrutinised only by the fiercely pedantic. What the world is comparing is this — the revival of a badge with more history and character than some of Britain’s aristocracy, up against a carbon-black bullet of a bike which would look perfectly at home in Bruce Wayne’s batcave. Polaris hope that the masses reason thusly — for just shy

of $22,000 all up, those who love Americana and heritage will fancy the Scout over a Harley Davidson Sportster 1200. While those who are intoxicated by burning the Octane’s namesake will see it as a real contender against the V-Rod — and more individual. As such, there’s no family feud here at all. Just a couple of brothers taking it to the competition with two very distinct and separate styles.

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CANTERBURY FARMING

May 2016

ADVERTORIAL

Say goodbye to corrosion Electronics and water will never be friends. Add salt, fertilizer or frost to the water and your electronics face a tough time.

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ships and trucks are full of electrics and electronics. So what’s the answer? Build a box around the installation? Instruct the boys to go easy on the equipment? Scream at the supplier who promised it would be water resistant? Or, if none of the above helps, wait for the

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May 2016

RURAL WHEELS

CANTERBURY FARMING

BATTERY ADDITIVE

ADVERTORIAL

Prevention is better than a cure After 18 years on the market in New Zealand and 13 years in Australia, Gerard Anselmi of Recharge the Battery Additive, says the message is getting through — prevention is better than a cure when it comes to batteries.

Battery Revitalizer & Conditioner A lot of people in our Recharge Conditioning Program are getting 8 to 10 years out of their batteries. Just dose them when you buy them, treat them every two years and give them an overnight charge twice a year between treatments and eliminate the sulphation problem, A car battery can be treated for around $5. Yes you can treat sealed batteries, simply drill into each cell, top up with water, treat, charge and reseal with silicone, sika-flex or a plastic bung.

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“The big issue is — every battery you buy is sulphated. Treat batteries early with Recharge, repeat the process every two years and keep batteries charged by backing up with a mains powered charge every six months or so. Most batteries will go a long time — 10 years or more. Yes you will get some failing batteries back but not all, so worth a go at $4 or $5 per car battery,” he says. Gerard and his wife Debbie attend shows about every week in New Zealand and Australia where they meet Recharge customers with batteries that are 10, 12 and 14-years-old and often still going. “I had a farmer at the Southland Field Days in Waimumu in February who told me he’d been using Recharge for years. When he took the battery that had just died, out of his tractor — it was 17-years-old. “Lead acid batteries usually die prematurely from sulphation buildup on internal lead plates, corroding the lead plates and compromising the battery’s holding capacity.”

According to Gerard most batteries are ready sulphated when purchased so treating them early and keeping them charged will prevent premature battery failure with the simple Recharge Battery Conditioning Program. The pair will be at New Zealand National Agricultural Fieldays again this year on their usual site — K-25 — doing special deals, talking battery maintenance and how to average over 10 years out of your farm batteries. Recharge is available from Farmlands. The 500ml farmer pack works out at $4.50 per car battery or $8.50 to treat an N-70zz light commercial battery. A more cost effective twolitre commercial pack is also available and can also be purchased on line at www.recharge.net.nz or on TradeMe. The two-litre pack treats 42 x N-70 batteries or 22 x N-150 truck batteries or about five sets of electric golf cart batteries — about $8,000 worth of batteries treated for

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CANTERBURY FARMING

May 2016

the ‘last’ word with Rob Cope-Williams

The long Indian Summer, and grain imports I think it is fair to say that it is the driest Autumn I can remember and while the city folk are revelling in the warmth and sunny days, it is very tough for those trying to grow grass on dry land. Last time I wrote this sort of report, it rained heavily before it went to print so I am hoping the same will happen this time. If not I suppose we keep on farming around the driest couple of years in living memory. I feel sad that the media are so focussed on the dairy downturn and the low prices that the industry is predicted to be getting when other sectors are suffering just as much. Take dairy support for example. Growers have planted and nurtured the feed, often at a huge cost because of irrigation, only to find that the usual clients have pulled their heads in and don’t want to, or can’t afford to, buy the feed. Others are buying the grazing but saying no to any extra supplements because of a limited cash flow. That certainly puts the pressure on the people hosting stock in their attempt to keep the condition on the cows. The lack of growth due to the dry will certainly hit dry land farmers very hard, and while those with irrigation are very OK growth wise, the cost for that feed is becoming a major problem. Yes, it isn’t just the dairy farmers who are

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DIAL 111 DONATE ONLINE being stretched, all sectors are facing huge costs and tight budgets. One farmer I have been talking with told me very scary figures about the cost of supplements and off-farm grazing. It is fortunate for him and his wife that they have several strings to their bow, but if it weren’t for their amazing stock management they would be in ver y deep trouble. As far as grain growers are concerned I was rocked to my little woollen socks that New Zealand imports huge volumes of feed grain, and that is being blamed for the spread of noxious plants being imported. An

expert being interviewed on radio was explaining that there are several systems to prevent the spread of unwanted seeds in grain lines including heat treatment, the hammer mills and the hen’s digestion system. However, the chooks are now being called the villains because their droppings are being spread on farms and some seeds are surviving the 98 percent odds of being digested. Surely the answer is simple — let’s grow our own and ban imports. It may put the price of eggs up a bit, but it will certainly help our balance of payments and allow cropping farmers to make an income

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