Manawatu Farming Lifestyles, June 2023

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Flooring

Varroa mite on the rise

by Denise Gunn

The Varroa destructor mite has caused an estimated 6.4% loss of bee colonies according to a recent Landcare Research survey.

These small parasites live on honey bees, feeding and reproducing on larvae which can spread viruses, cause malformation and shorten bees’ lifespans, eventually destroying colonies. The mite first appeared in New Zealand in the early 2000s, and since then, more bees have been affected.

Varroa was first noticed as the leading cause of bee losses at a rate of 5.3% in 2021. With the destructive effects of Varroa mite on the rise, the annual survey attributed nearly half of all colony losses to the mite and related complications during last year’s winter.

Regional loss rates for the 2021 winter showed large variation. Losses in the following winter hovered near the national average, ranging from 11.5% in the middle of the South Island to 15.5% in the upper North Island and lower South Island.

Efforts to slow down the spread of Varroa in the past 23 years proved successful, partly by ensuring only effective treatments had Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicine (ACVM) approval for use. However, Varroa is now endemic and appears to be gathering momentum. Failing to treat is fatal.

Jason and Amanda Prior are founders of Trees for Bees Plant Nursery and DownUnder Honey in the Manawatū. Jason said Varroa has become a major issue in the last three years, with Pyrethroid effectiveness being very low for the past two seasons.

“It results in a major overly of cost for extra beekeeping inspections, more treatments, extra feeding of weak colonies and lower yields all at a time of a low to no return. The national harvest last summer is down 90% on 2022/23.”

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He said recent research from Professor Phil Lester of Victoria University shows that the main treatments, Amitraz and Pyrethroid, aren’t working well.

“Although Varroa isn’t showing the genetic mutations for resistance seen overseas, his study shows we are now having to use many times the chemical levels used in the past. This suggests some local or New Zealand specific issue with resistance.”

The cause has not yet been established. “We first saw Pyrethroid resistance in 2018 but without an industry-funded research to verify and prove it, no one was listening.”

Jason said a lot of beekeepers are moving to using organic chemicals but they are more difficult to use, less effective and require skills some beekeepers don’t have.

“In our area, financially troubled companies have now largely exited the industry. So we are seeing less Varroa from untreated colonies. Hobbyists have also just lost their hives.

“Those that are left are using more organic treatments, oxalic and formic acid in particular. The beekeeping industry is struggling in New Zealand as there is no national research and development programme to manage Varroa, nor its treatment,” said Jason.

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UN praises Kiwi dairy farms

by Andy Bryenton

The global day chosen by the United Nations to celebrate the importance of milk to the cuisine, economy and wellbeing of the world has identified New Zealand as the most efficient dairy farming nation.

The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) launched world milk day in 2001, and this year they put the focus on the carbon emissions efficiency of modern dairying. With controversy swirling in New Zealand politics over regulation and taxation of our dairy herd’s emissions, one could be forgiven for thinking that Kiwi farms are a problem. However, the FAO’s research proved that New Zealand has a carbon footprint for on-farm milk production 70 per cent lower than the global average.

“To continue the progress, Dairy New Zealand is investing in R&D alongside sector and research partners to build understanding of methane-reducing technologies,” said DNZ’s CEO, Dr Tim Mackle, responding to this news.

“We should all be proud of our dairy farmers for helping maintain New Zealand’s success, producing more environmentally efficient products while supporting communities and the economy. Dairy provides jobs for 50,000 Kiwis and brings in about $22 billion of export earnings a year, which leads to about $50 billion in New Zealand’s economy.”

The revelation that Kiwi dairy farmers are confirmed world leaders came on World Milk Day, June 1. By coincidence, this is the occasion formerly known as ‘gypsy day’ on dairy farms across the country, when new sharemilking contracts go live, and farmers take possession of new properties.

Dr Mackle and other pundits within the industry say that the FAO’s finding point out two truths. Firstly, the dairy industry in New Zealand has taken it upon itself, in the absence of an emissions trading scheme, to make great leaps forward in environmental responsibility.

Secondly, the FAO has reinforced the warning many in the dairy community have voiced in recent times. If Kiwi dairy farms, now confirmed to be 70 per cent more carbon friendly than some foreign counterparts, are driven out of

business by over-regulation and the creep of carbon-related non-indigenous forestation, other nations with a worse environmental pedigree will pick up the slack. The demand for milk is not decreasing. The more of it which comes from New Zealand, the better — for the economy and, it seems, for the planet.

“We should all be proud of our dairy farmers for helping maintain New Zealand’s success, producing more environmentally efficient products while supporting communities and the economy.”

TASTE FARMINGOF SOWED CAREER

BY DENISE GUNN

Growing up in Auckland, José didn’t have any farming history in his immediate family. However, farming seeds were sown early after receiving children’s tractor and farm machinery books as a two-year-old.

School holiday visits to an uncle’s dairy farm in Dargaville further developed José’s interest in farming. He made the most of these opportunities and enjoyed all aspects of being out on the farm.

“I used to force my parents to wake up early to take me to the cowshed. This wore

thin with them, and after a few years, they used to send me up by myself just to get some peace and quiet at home. I loved it.”

His uncle’s farm was sold when José was a teenager. “I continued shadowing him as he contracted to other farms in the vicinity doing general farm work.”

José chose to study agriculture, graduating with a Bachelor of AgriScience at Massey University. In his final year of study, José was awarded a dairy bursary scholarship. That led to his first farm assistant position in Waikato.

After completing that season, he moved to Taranaki to work as 2IC under a contract milker on a 330-cow, grass-fed farm owned by Mike Hammond.

“After the contract milker left, I was given the opportunity to contract milk for Mike. I spent four seasons working there

and learnt a lot, including helping project manage the installation of a brand new high-tech cowshed.

“I then spent one year working for QCONZ, which taught me more about milk quality and gave me a different perspective on the industry.”

José enjoys farming alongside his wife Kirby and their two young sons

Eventually, José and and his wife Kirby are aiming for farm ownership and a small farm consultancy business

The 2023 Manawatū Dairy Manager of the Year, José Hamber, set his sights on farming from a young age.

For the past two seasons, José and his wife Kirby have worked for Colin Beazley on Rob and Frances Crothers 350ha, 1,100-cow property in Cheltenham

On finishing the year with QCONZ, José realised a more hands-on approach to farming would better suit him.

“I met my wife, Kirby, and we both contract milked for one season on a 200-cow, 60ha farm in Kaponga. With the arrival of our first child, we applied for a lower order sharemilker job close to my parents who live in Mangawhai.”

Working on this 150ha, 280-cow farm taught José and Kirby about pasture quality, cow performance and enjoying that connection between them, the land and the animals.

After entering the Northland Dairy Manager of the Year competition, José was approached to manage Cheltenham Dairies. José and Kirby have worked the past two seasons for Colin Beazley on Rob and Frances Crothers’ 350ha, 1,100cow property.

The 32-year-old enjoys the daily farming challenges with no two days alike. “Every problem has more than one solution and requires me to use the full range of my knowledge and experience.”

When José started in the dairy industry, no farming background, combined with the lack of initial mentors, was challenging.

“Being an Aucklander on paper can raise a few eyebrows initially,” he said. “Over the past 10 years, I have had to watch various ways of meeting farming challenges and decide for myself which processes produce the best results. I have also been fortunate to meet and form lifelong relationships with some incredible mentors.

“The dairy industry has such an abundant number of resources available and mentors willing to give up their time

and knowledge for nothing more than a cup of tea and a biscuit.”

Winning the 2023 Manawatū Farm Manager of the Year has been a career high point for José, along with teaching his two young sons about farming. José has also achieved low empty rates across the farms he’s managed, along with grade-free and low somatic cell count certificates from Fonterra every season. He’s also moved a herd from twice-a-day milking to once-a-day, still achieving the same production in the first year.

He enjoys being able to do farm work alongside his family. “My family is the most

important thing to me, and everything I do — I do for my family.

“I also enjoy treating a herd like the athletes that they are and enjoy being a part of the most efficient and sustainable agricultural industry in the world. New Zealand farmers should be proud of their accomplishments.”

José was recently announced runnerup in the 2023 New Zealand Dairy Manager category and won the DairyNZ People and Leadership Award. Future farming goals for the couple include farm ownership and a small farm consultancy business.

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Manawatū Dairy Manager of the Year 2023 José Hamber

FARM BACKGROUND OPENS GATE TO CAREER

BY DENISE GUNN

Up until the age of nine, when the Powell family moved to town, Sarah was usually found on the 90ha dairy heifer grazing and beef farm with her father, Barry.

“My main job was being dad’s personal gate-opener. Every opportunity I could, I was out there with him after school and on the weekends,” said Sarah.

“After we moved into town, I became pretty busy with extra-curriculars but still enjoyed lending a hand to dad occasionally.”

When Sarah finished secondary school, she was unsure which direction to head.

“So I worked at HydroHealthy, a hydroponic grower, back home. Initially, I had rough plans to travel New Zealand, but with Covid, I ended up just working the year. I was then ready for a change, so I decided to come down to Massey University and study agricultural science.”

As part of the degree, students are required to work in one of the agricultural industries for the summer. Sarah ended up working as a farm assistant at Thornton Park Fonterra in Longburn. She has now worked on the 283ha, 600-cow farm for the past 18 months.

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“Up until my current position, I hadn’t spent any time working in the dairy industry.”

Sarah said her favourite season would have to be the one and only full season she’s completed. “It’s something that I can look back at and be proud of how much I have grown as an individual over the past year.”

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The 21-year-old loves the variety of skills and knowledge gained on the job working in the dairy industry, along with evolving to keep up with an everchanging job.

“I have also come to love the network of supportive people I met through the Dairy Industry Awards. Everyone wants to help you succeed in any way they can.”

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A childhood background growing up on a Northland farm gave the 2023 Manawatū Dairy Trainee of the Year, Sarah Powell, a passion for the outdoors from an early age.

Sarah won the 2023 Manawatū Dairy Trainee of the Year award and placed third at the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards

For the past 18 months Sarah has worked as a farm assistant on the 283ha, 600-cow Thornton Park Fonterra farm in Longburn

Sarah’s colleagues have entered the Dairy Industry Awards in past years and strongly encouraged others to give it a go. She said the awards provide learning opportunities and highlight focus areas.

“Highlights from the time I’ve been dairy farming would have to be my week away with the Dairy Industry Awards. It’s a testament to how far I’ve come. It was an amazing week away with an inspiring bunch of people.”

Joining the Fitzherbert Young Farmers recently has been another step towards meeting like-minded people. “I very much look forward to being more involved in the club.”

Maintaining an ideal work-life balance has been a challenge for Sarah, but she is managing this, primarily through good time management.

“Setting aside time for study, downtime, and family and friends is vital to minimise stress and prioritise mental health and wellbeing.”

Sarah would like to see a change in farmer’s routines to help create a better work-life balance, minimising fatigue and isolation. When not working, Sarah also enjoys playing soccer, Frisbee, shooting, doing puzzles and training her puppy.

In addition to winning the 2023 Manawatū Dairy Trainee of the Year, Sarah

also placed third in the same category at the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards. Her strong technical knowledge was recognised, too, with the Federated Farmers General Farming Knowledge merit award.

Judges noted Sarah had identified the challenges for females working in the dairy industry. “It’s also exciting to note the increase of women in the workforce, and I’m happy to be one of those women contributing to the industry.”

The first-time entrant is excited to see what else technology is going to bring to the industry. “It’s evident over the

years just how big a role technology has had in influencing the direction of the industry, from apps on our phone through to collars.”

Currently studying towards PrimaryITO Level 4 Dairy, Sarah’s focus is currently about learning and taking any opportunities that arise. “I’ve gone from never working on a farm to being proficient at the day-to-day tasks and helping train new staff.”

Moving to a 2IC position within the next year is one of Sarah’s shortterm goals. Eventually, she is looking to head into farm management or contract milking.

Moving into farm management or contract milking is one of Sarah’s long-term goals

“Professor Tony Attwood wrote the foreword. He is one of the top three Aspie specialists in the world, and I am honoured that he read the whole book and wrote the foreword,” says Dee.

“My mum said when I was three, she often found me talking to people who

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were struggling. When I was five, someone explained what a counsellor was, and I knew then that that was what I wanted to do with my life.

“I was one of the lucky people knowing what I wanted to do. People absolutely fascinate me. Some kids want to know how a hair dryer works and take it

apart to see. I wanted to find out how people work.”

Her father disapproved of psychology, so when Dee finished school at 17, she moved out of home, worked in the bank and studied for a psychology degree at night, eventually registering as a counsellor. Back then, there was no counselling degree.

She volunteered at Lifeline and started more honours and master’s papers.

“I had a very sick child and had to choose between study and my child. Of course, my child won over completing a thesis. I started my first clinic in March 1993 and now offer all types of counselling for people from across New Zealand and internationally.

“Psychopathology was my main elective, and I completed levels one, two, three and honours. It is the study of everything that is abnormal, and I was completely fascinated by autism. In 1981, paediatrician Lorna Wing launched a paper on autistic personality disorders as her daughter was diagnosed autistic.

“Lorna had discovered the papers Hans Asperger wrote and realised the documents described her daughter, and I read her paper in the early 1990s. It explained many clients and the missing link between severe autism and people who didn’t behave neurotypically but functioned in every other way.

Dee often spends time relaxing at the pool

Well-known counsellor Dee Jones has launched her much-requested book called The Aspie Book, written to help neurodivergent and neurotypical people better understand themselves and each other.

“Hans appears to have cooperated with the Nazi regime to destroy defective children. He found a group of different children and kept them to observe their behaviour because he was fascinated by them. These children had symptoms of what was called Asperger’s. Because of his negative connotations and reputation for destroying many children, the name was changed from Asperger’s and renamed Autism Spectrum Disorder or Condition.”

Neurotypical describes individuals with typical neurological development or functioning. Neurodivergent is a nonmedical umbrella term describing people with variation in their mental functions and can include conditions such as Autism Spectrum Condition.

“I spent the last 30 years reading, studying and specialising in ASC, previously called ASD. My clients would try to read books on the subject and found them too academic. They said I explained it so clearly that they wanted to take me home and asked, would I write down what is in my head for them.

“In 2019, I began writing my book explaining the academic stuff in very simple language. My clients kept asking, ‘how’s the Aspie book going?’ So that is what I called it — The Aspie Book.

“There are drawings to describe a moment, and I was gifted the drawings in the first chapter. Examples of difficulties people face include one tradesman I worked with who was excellent at his job, providing his structure was perfect. His van

was so well organised his workmates would get what they needed from his vehicle.

“They messed up his structure, even if it was just three open boxes, and he would get behind in his work because he could take two hours to sort his van again. I showed him a picture, and he said, ‘that’s me — you captured me completely’. It was such a precious ‘wow, you got me’ moment, and he understood himself better, and we were able to discuss how he could talk to his employer about his situation.

“ASC isn’t a mental health condition — the brain works differently. Autism

is a social development disorder in which people on the spectrum operate differently from neurotypicals.”

The Aspie Book by Dee Jones can be ordered online at Amazon, The Nile and other websites or purchased from bookstores nationwide. To contact Dee email deejoneswork@yahoo.com.

“Professor Attwood said he recommends the book to his colleagues in all professional disciplines with autistic clients.”

Read part two of Dee Jone’s story to writing The Aspie Book next month.

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Dee with her therapy dog Storm, who has spent many years working alongside her

The Aspie Book is the result of Dee’s clients asking her to write down her simple explanations of autism

Power Farming team here to help

Power Farming is a trusted brand dedicated to keeping farmers growing. We strive to understand what our clients require and give them the best service that we can deliver.

Even after 75 years in the agricultural industry, our recipe for Power Farming is still the same as it was when we started. Work hard, sell quality products, deliver on our promises and back up what we sell.

At Power Farming Manawatu, we recognise first and foremost, new machinery is a business asset. Farming is not a short game, you are in there for the long haul, and your gear should be there with you for that journey. You don’t just want a good product at a good price. You want to be assured that when there’s something that needs to be done; your Power Farming team can sort it — quickly.

We believe in providing our customers with the complete package from the start, and ultimately, we achieve this with our people. At our dealership, you will find highly skilled and passionate parts, service and sales teams working together to do their utmost to keep your business growing.

Our expert sales consultants work with you to find the best equipment at the best price that is the best fit for your business. From there, you are further supported by our highly skilled service technicians and parts experts, who aim to minimise downtime, and maximise your work output. With an after-hours parts team and service technicians on call 24/7, Power Farming Manawatu strives to deliver what you need when you need it.

Our commitment and determination to help you grow your business extend beyond our dealership. We are backed by our national support team, which consists of IT specialists, administrators, accountants, assemblers, shipping coordinators, product specialists, and trained parts and service advisers. We work together to ensure businesses have the right gear for their operation.

We are proud of our community and proud of the fact that farming is an integral part of the New Zealand psyche. Here in Manawatu, you’re not just a client; you are part of the Power Farming team. We pride ourselves on being part of your organisation and, most of all, making sure that your business grows. Nobody beats Power Farming for agriculture machinery knowledge, passion, experience and determination to succeed.

Power Farming Manawatu has an after hours parts team and service technicians on call 24/7

Protect your machinery with lanolin

A small investment to stop rust will lengthen the life of farm machinery like quad bikes, ATVs, trucks, loaders and fertiliser spreaders, just to name a few.

The protection comes from Prolan, an iconic by-product of New Zealand’s sheep industry — Lanolin. Prolan makes natural, environmentally friendly lubricants and corrosion inhibitors which are getting noticed on the other side of the world.

Prolan owners Murray and Julie Shaw now export their product to Denmark, Sweden, Iceland, the UK, Netherlands, Canada and even Guam. Prolan is used for wind turbines and cranes as well as by pump manufacturers and trucking firms.

Prolan NZ Director, Murray Shaw, said the company has an extensive range of products made from lanolin (wool grease,) which is secreted by sheep to protect their fleece in harsh conditions. We’ve replicated that action to protect a range of surfaces.

“We spent a lot of money researching how to take the lanolin and blend it with natural products to make industrial lubricants,” says Murray. “I’m so proud of the ground we’ve made in our export markets. We’re well ahead of our competitors. It’s solid progress, and it’s exciting.

“Prolan’s rust treatment more than doubles the life of farm machinery. A quad bike, for example, costs around $20,000 and often only has

a life of four to five years on a dairy farm. Washing and drying that bike and applying a coating of Prolan will prevent the chassis of that bike (or any other farm implement) from developing rust — effectively doubling or tripling its life.”

The Prolan can simply be applied by a compressed air paint system and, once dried to a waxy surface, will withstand water-blasting.

“Where paint hardens and cracks as the implement flexes under use,

the Prolan coating remains flexible, preventing any ingress of moisture,” Murray said.

“It’s so versatile — everyone should have a can. We live in a coastal country, so anyone with a motorhome, a boat, a trailer or a quad bike would benefit from the anti-corrosive properties. Even small jobs like a squeaky door hinge or a sticky shower door are an easy fix with Prolan.”

It’s also environmentally friendly — taken from nature to protect nature.

Vehicle chassis coated with Prolan Extreme

by Denise Gunn

PlaceMakers sets the pace

The Palmerston North branch, located on the corner of Railway Road and Francis Street, is part of the Okatea Hub, incorporating branches in Levin and Kapiti. The Hub, a division of the PlaceMakers Joint Venture franchise programme, employs around 80 staff, with close to 20 of those based in Palmerston North.

Joint Venture operator Greg Kusabs is the Okatea Hub owner/manager. Greg, a local lad, grew up in the Horowhenua and began his career with PlaceMakers in the Levin yard many years ago.

Okatea Hub operations manager

Tara Taru said the opportunities in PlaceMakers are limitless. Throughout New Zealand, PlaceMakers employs 2,100 people in its 62 stores and assists more than 300,000 trade clients annually, alongside retail customers.

Tara said the PlaceMakers team is 100% committed to its customers.

“With the possibilities available in today’s building industry, it’s becoming more common to have obscure products specified or tricky requests from the builder’s clients, but that’s not a problem for PlaceMakers. A product range that has over 100,000 lines covers most things but not everything.

“Nearly 15% of products ordered are non-stock-keeping unit items, meaning that the PlaceMakers team have sourced unique products specifically on a customer’s request. We are not just talking about building products. For example, they’ve found everything from

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fishing lures to bulk dog food, jet-ski trailers and even 50 hay bales.”

PlaceMakers aims to be a onestop shop for all building and landscaping needs from concrete, paint, plasterboard, frames and trusses. Eight manufacturing plants throughout New Zealand construct and assemble frames and trusses specifically for PlaceMakers.

“We are here to help you get the job done easier and faster. Our staff have expert knowledge and provide great customer service,” said Tara.

The Palmerston North branch of PlaceMakers is open six days a week from 7am to 5pm weekdays and 8am to 3pm Saturdays.

“PlaceMakers is very strong throughout New Zealand, and we do our best to make sure our customers are well looked after.”

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Do I need extra magnesium?

by John Arts

Magnesium is one of my most frequently prescribed supplements. Before I supplemented with magnesium, I remember getting cramps in my legs and having to get up and jump around the bedroom to unlock seized muscles.

Magnesium is involved in numerous body processes and can help problems in various body systems, especially muscles. I recommend it for cramps, restless legs, PMS, hypertension and heart rhythm problems. I usually recommend that magnesium be taken before bed for maximum impact on muscles, nerves and to help with sleep.

I have many clients now largely free of night cramps and restless legs. In stubborn cases, I also add an antioxidant complex or a multimineral complex to help with nighttime circulation and improve muscle function. It is rare that we cannot get improvements with these problems that can disrupt our sleep.

Unfortunately, many magnesium supplements are one a day, making dose experimentation almost impossible. In my experience, the required dosage differs a lot between people with similar problems. Additionally, many supplements use

cheaper low-grade ingredients, which are harsh on the digestive tract. The only real downside of magnesium supplements is they can cause temporary diarrhoea. However, this mild laxative effect can be helpful for those that tend towards constipation.

I prefer to use three different forms of magnesium. I combine bioavailable marine (seaweed) sourced magnesium with amino acid chelated magnesium di-glycinate with magnesium citrate. I deliberately formulated the capsules to have a dosage range. Normally two capsules before bed will suffice, but short-term doses of four capsules can be used. Please contact me for personalised advice.

John Arts (B.Soc.Sci, Dip Tch, Adv. Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on 0800 423 559 or email john@abundant.co.nz. Join his newsletter at abundant.co.nz.

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Three exploration points

by Amy Fifita

Manawatū has various opportunities to experience the mountain ranges and ski resorts for people eager for winter activities at Mount Ruapehu.

Start the ski season by enjoying one of New Zealand’s natural gems that offers something for all capabilities. Plan your trip ahead of time and decide whether you want to engage in the sportier aspects of the alpines or want to take in the marvellous snowy sights.

Stay at one of the ski resorts located on the mountain so you can extend your activities and have a whole experience of what is offered there. You can book a stay at either Tūroa, Tukino Skifield or Whakapapa.

Tukino Skifield is on the eastern slopes of the mountain and offers a retreat from the normally, crowded winter destinations. This off-road escape is accessible by 4WDs or by shuttle. It is suitable for groups, families or sole skiers who want a safe and friendly environment to relax and have fun.

These fields are run by the Tukino Mountain Clubs Association, a group of volunteers and club members who combine their skills and knowledge, so the public can enjoy and learn on the snow. There are places to stay, so you have more time to explore the slopes and have fun.

On the western side of the mountain are the more widely known ski fields open to the public — Tūroa and Whakapapa.

Both locations have a series of trails for beginner to expert-level skiers. There is plenty of features to explore within the ski area boundaries and you can also have the opportunity to sledge.

Explore what the mountain offers, from viewing the vast glaciers and hone your skills on the slopes. Make a plan for your trip that you can follow and enjoy your time on the slopes that Mount Ruapehu offers.

Flavour, fun and free

by Amy Fifita

Going on an adventure doesn’t have to be expensive, there are plenty of low-cost activity options for you and your family to explore the Manawatū region

You’ll be able to enjoy various activities, from hiking through the green forests and witnessing the stunning views of the area to marvelling at the area’s artistic features. You will also have the opportunity to become involved in the community by engaging in local events such as traditional farmer’s markets.

Purchase some fresh produce at the Feilding Farmer’s Market. You will be able to taste the local flavours that the local farmers have grown and get to know where your produce comes from. There are a collection of foods and artisan delicacies for you to experience. The weekly event happens every Friday from 8.30am at Manchester Square.

There are various free opportunities to enjoy the landscape and forests in the region. Get amongst the natural beauty that the area has on offer. The glow worms at Limestone Creek Reserve in Āpiti provide an enchanting light show for cave adventurers. Admire and learn about sustainable energy at the Te Āpiti Wind Farm Lookout.

Meridian

It was the first location Meridian Energy built in New Zealand and became fully operational in 2004. Its backdrop is the Ruahine Ranges which stand as a barrier between the Manawatū and Hawke’s Bay.

The Pohangina Valley will showcase the area’s rural beauty and native trees on the various walks there and includes a mountain climb up Mount Maharahara.

Treat yourself and admire the flare of the local artisans at Palmerston North by exploring locations on the Palmy Art Map. Along the way, you will find vibrant and cultural creations that can be appreciated by

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people with many preferences. The area has various showcases of sculptural, painted and art collections for you to admire on the streets or at one of the various galleries.

Energy’s Te Āpiti Wind Farm was the first wind farm to feed energy into the national electricity grid

Five decades serving Wanganui

by Denise Gunn

Wanganui Plumbing has earned a reputation as trusted plumbing, heating, sheet metal and roofing specialists, serving the region for the past 50 years.

The locally-owned and operated business offers a wide range of maintenance and plumbing requirements for commercial and residential properties. In addition, the versatile team at Wanganui Plumbing are also roofers.

Wanganui Plumbing owner/manager Kerry Buchanan said plumbers have a really broad knowledge base. “Roofing is part of our training and trade.”

Kerry said one of many business highlights over the years was reroofing St Mary’s Catholic Church in Wanganui. “It has an interesting design with a pointy roof. The church is a notable feature in Wanganui.”

Wanganui Plumbing operates out of purpose-built premises constructed in 1968. In the large workshop onsite, the team specialise in sheet metal manufacturing.

“It was built as a plumbing workshop, and the sheet metal was part of that. It’s

a very old-school workshop which makes it quite unique.

“We can make spouting samples from stainless steel, copper and steel. Whatever our clients want. We have a big press for pressing the materials,” said Kerry. “We can make anything that is made from metal, basically.”

We service domestic & commercial refrigeration, (farmers cool room), full electrical service, house wiring, repairs call outs, farm hot waters & domestic, industrial repairs & whiteware repairs. Also electronic service & repair.

The experienced team at Wanganui Plumbing are also retailers, authorised installers and service agents of Woodsman wood fires. “We install, service and sell them. We also do quite a lot of wetbacks and radiators.”

Expert advice and service are offered at Wanganui Plumbing, and all work is completed to the highest standard. A showroom on-site displays various products available for purchase. There

is also a collection of older plumbing relics refl ecting the change in the materials used.

Wanganui Plumbing is located at 168 Somme Parade, Aramoho, just before the bridge. The business is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm.

“We are friendly and realistically priced with a wide range of skills, installing anything from pumps to copper domes,” said Kerry.

Phone the team on 06 343 9763 to discuss all plumbing, roofing and heating requirements.

staff to meet your needs. Our experience is your guarantee.

Wanganui Plumbing offers a wide range of maintenance and plumbing requirements for commercial and residential properties

The team specialise in sheet metal manufacturing in the large on-site workshop

Teardrops of lost love

by Amy Fifita

The Whanganui River holds significance in the area and as Māori legend tells it, speaks of a lover’s quarrel that mars the land today.

The story focusses on Ruapehu, a fair maiden who was married to Taranaki, the towering mountain. She was sought by another, Tongariro, while her beloved was away hunting, but the affair was discovered when the two were caught upon the return of her husband.

Rage came upon them, and the two men fought each other for Ruapehu.

Taranaki lost the battle, and heartbroken, escaped westward and settled where the mountain now rests, carving out a chasm where the Whanganui River runs.

Although the pair remain separated by time and land, they still long for each other. Taranaki shed tears into the emptiness, filling the riverbed with water. This woeful tale is the original story of the river. Whanganui township lies at the mouth of the river and the Tasman Sea.

The body of water holds significance to the town that showcases its importance with various activities. The historic paddle steamer Waimarie is available from October to May or take a heritage cruise year-round on the Motor Vessel Wairua during the weekends and other selected days.

Dive into history at the Riverboat Museum, where you can discover stories about the river and the vessels that have travelled on it. Throughout the year, the

Explore the significant Whanganui River and its history on a Motor Vessel Wairua cruise museum offers specialised cruise events on the Waimarie for visitors and locals to experience. Enjoy travelling on the waters and broadening your knowledge about the river and its secrets.

If you prefer staying on land, you still have the opportunity to witness this great river from the shore. Many motels and eateries reside on the banks of the river for onlookers to gaze at the water setting. You could walk on the Durie Hill Tower walk for spectacular views of the river, Mount Ruapehu and the city itself.

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Spectacular Jetboating on the Manawatu Gorge

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ADVERTORIAL

Motorcycle business accelerates

by Denise Gunn

Starting with a shared dream and one motorbike, qualified motorcycle mechanics and brothers Seton and Karl Brown worked their way up to owning a business by repairing one motorbike at a time.

“We were both employed already and put $25 a week into a bank account and bought one motorbike. With the profits, we used it to buy another,” said Karl.

“After a couple of years, we stopped putting $25 in, and it became selffunding, although we never made any money. Eventually, we had filled our mother’s farm sheds and paddock with bikes. It came to a point, do it or forget it, as it took up all our spare time.”

In 2015, Brown Brothers Bikes had grown enough for Karl to commit to it full-time. The following year, they bought a building. Seton said the business has gone from strength to strength.

“We built a showroom last year and have slowly turned the building, which was originally a cheese factory, then a meat processing plant, into what is now a fully functioning motorbike shop.”

The brothers found purchasing their own building was a great step forward, providing ample space, off-street parking and an ideal location at 43 SH3, Westmere, just north of Whanganui.

Karl and Seton each have around 20 years of experience repairing and servicing motorbikes. A team of six staff members enjoy all aspects of motorcycling together.

“We have customers all through New Zealand, supplying motorbike shops and anyone else who requires second-hand parts,” said Seton.

The business has a large customer base in the Taranaki, Whanganui and Manawatu regions.

“We are unique in the fact that we sell new and used bikes, provide all repair and servicing requirements, as well as being able to supply a huge range of new and second-hand parts. Often we can offer options of new or secondhand parts, depending on requirements or budget.”

Brown Brothers Bikes includes the CFmoto, Sherco and Thumpstar franchises. Karl said future goals include continuing to provide a great service to their customers, growing and employing more staff, and considering farm-servicing options.

Brown Brothers Bikes sell new and used bikes, provide repair and servicing requirements, and sell a range of new and second-hand parts

EDUCATION

Motivating your mind

by Amy Fifita

Embrace education and aim for your future using various techniques that enrich your learning and encourage you to achieve your goals.

While some forms of education are enjoyable, some learning tasks can be tedious. There are various ways you can tackle your study load so you can enjoy investing in your mind or your career.

Palmerston North: Wednesday 26 July or Friday 18 August

Levin: Tuesday 27 June

Whanganui: Wednesday 5 July

PN: Thursday 20 July

Levin: Wednesday 12 July

Knowing whether you learn academically or practically will impact on the experience.

Schedules work for some people. It allows them to see their time and allocate what needs to be done accordingly. You can break up long tasks making it easier to manage, and it gives you time to process what you are doing.

If you are studying extramurally, you have more freedom to decide where you study. Sometimes, it is refreshing to have a change of surrounding and take your laptop outside. If you prefer working at a desk, then you could play some music that helps you focus. The learning environment can impact how your course work.

Get involved in what you are learning. If you are studying art, contact some local artisans or volunteer at a nearby gallery. That way you, can immerse yourself in it and understand how it works practically. Being hands-on can increase your understanding of what you are learning. You will also be able to create a network of like-minded individuals or collective so you can grow in what you are interested in. Be creative in what you are doing if the subject allows for it. It will give you

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a different perspective on your material and hopefully motivate you. Involve what you are passionate into your coursework to give you more incentive to achieve your goal.

Some research suggests that having fun during the educational process can help students retain information better.

The more ease and enjoyment you create when studying will strengthen your understanding of what you are learning. You will also create meaningful memories of the experience. Embrace what you are learning even if it is difficult, and take things one step at a time while investing in your mind and future.

Whanganui Girls’ College provides a quality education within a caring environment. We enable students to experience a wide range of opportunities to extend their learning horizons.

We are an all girls school with classes from Years 9 to 13. We also welcome international students from a variety of continents. Nestled in the grounds of Wanganui Girls’ College is Ad Astra Hostel, a self-contained site in park-like grounds. We can house 120 students with amenities including a gym, pool, conference facilities, canteen and laundry, together with a suite of computers enabling internet access for homework completion.

Hostel directors live on site and are available 24 hours a day.

Ad Astra Hostel provides a secure and compassionate environment where all students are encouraged to adopt a collaborative and supportive approach to school and hostel life. This support fosters high expectations and ensures students feel well prepared to achieve in their academic studies. There are also plenty of opportunities to participate in sport and many other extracurricular activities. The key social skills learnt at Hostel lay the foundations for positive connections throughout life. We provide a myriad of choices on how to spend time, whether it’s sporting, cultural or academic, to ensure your daughter is well-placed to reach her absolute potential in school and beyond.

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EDUCATION

Study snacks sorted

by Amy Fifita

Enhance your brainpower and change your snacks to ease your educational journey with healthy and function-promoting things to eat.

Studying can be a drain on your energy. While sitting in front of a computer or laptop may appear effortless, using your mind can be exhausting. Rest assured that there are foods that can promote brain productivity, memory and various other study-required skills.

For people who like to savour the sweetness of chocolate, be reassured to know that this tasty treat is on the list. Dark chocolate promotes focus. It is abundant with antioxidants and stimulants that lift yourmood.

Walnuts are widely known as a food that increases your brain function. Some studies have tested the edibles with people and saw a correlation between the nut and improved cognitive test scores. It is a nut rich in the goodness of omega three, as are fatty fish products and avocados.

Harvard’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital did a study and discovered that

the flavonoids in berries impact memory health. Eating two servings a week can help you retain information making it easier if you are studying.

Essential foods like leafy greens, vegetables and fruit will give your body and mind the nutrients and vitamins they need to function optimally. These simple and healthy items can be paired to create a healthy and beneficial meal or you can eat them separately.

If you’re an all-or-nothing person, whip some super-study foods into a smoothie. There are multiple combinations of goodness that promote a healthy brain so you can perform well.

Ideal produce to add to your smoothies are foods like avocado, chia seeds, pomegranate juice, kale and berries. It allows you to be culinarily creative with foods that will assist you as you study. This idea is great for people leading a busy lifestyle and

You can combine a bunch of super-study foods into a convenient smoothie to increase your focus and brain function trying to cram brain health in with the mix.

your future career and interests. You will find it easier to study when you are energised by the goodness of these snacks.

Learning, Achieving, Celebrating Together

A Whanganui Collegiate School education develops our students to be contributors to our future communities.

• A world class educational approach linked to Round Square

• A vibrant and connected network

• A platform for tomorrow’s leaders to succeed

We invite you to book your personal tour to meet our students, explore our facilities and discover why Whanganui Collegiate School is right for your family. www.collegiate.school.nz

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Learning with a difference

by Amy Fifita

Delve into your child’s interests and aspirations by enrolling them in one of the various facilities throughout the Manawatū area.

Despite schooling being about education, it is also a place where children network with other students and families. Choose wisely, when deciding where you want to send your child to ensure the environment fits your values and their learning type.

There are multiple opportunities for you to grasp within the area. The options and specialities are diverse, with education facilities from Tararua to Ruapehu that offer the Enviroschools curriculum for students with a mind for nature. Look at the Enviroschool website to see the ones in your district.

For people wanting to embrace their cultural bloodline, there are various Māori immersion schools within the region. There are more than 10 immersion schools within Palmerston North for you to enrol your child in, and many more around the Manawatū area.

If you have children of high school age that are challenged in the classroom setting, take the opportunity to talk with them about what they desire for their future. Enrolling them in a tertiary facility might suit them better and encourage them with other like-minded individuals.

Some schools within the region offer their students the Cambridge Assessment International Education. It is recognised worldwide as a reputable system of education. Saint Dominic’s, Western Heights High School, Wanganui High School and Carncot School give their students the opportunity to sit the CAIE exams.

Finding an apprenticeship could be a good option too. That way, your child will learn the practical side of their desired career and learn as they are doing it. Many youths excel at having the experience and are supported by the experts teaching and guiding them. There are apprenticeship programmes for various fields such as hairdressing, tourism, sports and fitness engineering and building.

Whatever you decide, the options are there to create a good opportunity for your child. The academic mode of learning doesn’t suit everyone, but with thought and guidance, you can assist your children in their futures.

“There are multiple options for you to grasp within the area.”

ADVERTORIAL

Further expansion for AllRoad Adventure

by Denise Gunn

From early beginnings as a side project five years ago, AllRoad Adventure has developed into a fully-fledged business.

Company director/owner Alex Toye has a background as a mechanic in the automotive industry. He said the business, which he started in his garage at home, soon grew to become a fulltime job on its own.

In October 2021, AllRoad Adventure moved to its current location at 14 Malden Street, Palmerston North. Alongside specialising in fabricating custom trailers to suit customers’ requirements, AllRoad Adventure also imports a range of standard-size trailers, which are assembled on-site in the Malden Street workshop and showroom.

“Some of our custom work includes trailers for side-by-sides and car transporters,” said Alex. “We also stock a range of dirt bikes, quad bikes and go-karts. More recently, in April, we have expanded this side of our business, taking on the Royal Enfield, Benelli and Segway dealership for the Manawatu. We run this out of the same premises.”

Alex said taking on the new motorcycle brands is a real highlight for the business. The team at AllRoad Adventure knows the products well and can help customers find the correct products for their needs.

“We have five team members currently. I’m the company director and

have been running the company for five years. I manage all the day-to-day running of the business.

“We have two staff, Corban and Richard, in the workshop who fabricate our trailers. One of these staff is also a mechanic with 10-plus years of experience and provides all our servicing on motorcycles.

“Henry is our newly-appointed salesman, focussing on helping people

find the best motorcycle or trailer for their needs. Louise, my wife, assists with administration duties part-time.”

Earlier this year, the team showcased their New Zealand-made and imported trailers at the Central Districts Field Days. Alex said it was an ideal opportunity for AllRoad Adventure to gain further recognition. “We aim to have affordable price points while still delivering quality products.”

Among the short-term plans for the business is a new, purpose-built premises to be constructed further down Malden Street.

“That will give a lot more space to allow us to fully showcase all of our products. We are hopeful this will be completed in the next 12 months. Watch this space,” said Alex.

AllRoad Adventure is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm and Saturdays from 9am to noon.

AllRoad Adventure specialises in fabricating custom trailers to suit customers’ requirements and also imports a range of standard-size trailers which are assembled on-site

In addition to stocking a range of dirt bikes, quad bikes and go-karts, AllRoad Adventure has taken on the Royal Enfield, Benelli and Segway dealership for Manawatu