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Young farmer focussed on dairy career
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Moving up the dairy farming ladder Page 8–9
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May 2018
MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES
National merit award for Manawatu share farmers
Integrity community media
The 2018 Manawatu Dairy Share Farmers of the Year, Richard and Wendy Ridd, won the LIC Recording and Productivity Award at the recent New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards (NZDIA) held in Invercargill.
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The Ridds currently 50:50 share milk 410 cows on a 209ha Ashhurst property, owned by Richard’s parents, Andrew and Caroline Ridd. This is the couple’s third season share milking on the farm, with Richard returning to the dairy industry seven years ago. He previously owned a contracting business with his brother-inlaw Brendan. The appeal of being part of a progressive industry was the key to Richard and Wendy leaving their roles as a contractor and veterinarian technician. “There was a lot of pressure placed on our business in the first year with the lower payout,” said Richard. “We overcame that and have a big focus on equity growth through both herd value and debt reduction now.” Richard and Wendy said that entering the dairy industry awards has given them a better understanding of their business. “We both love working outside on the land and with the animals, and the lifestyle farming enables Richard and Wendy Ridd, pictured here at the 2018 us to create, for our family.” Manawatu Dairy Industry Awards, won a merit award at The Ridds both have degrees the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards in applied science from Massey University and are proud that their rate Manager of the Year, and Simone Smail of genetic gain is twice the national from Southland-Otago was announced average. They have also built a strong the 2018 New Zealand Dairy Trainee of foundation in human resources. “We the Year. realise the importance of having strong NZDIA general manager, Chris positive relationships, both on-farm with Keeping, said there had been a few our awesome team, and off-farm with trends amongst the 33 finalists the fantastic professionals we use,” competing for honours in the awards said Wendy. programme this year. “We are open to change and willing to “The finalists are acutely aware of receive feedback and act on it to better the importance of biosecurity, and our business.” health and safety with regards to Dan and Gina Duncan from Northland both environmental issues, animal were named the 2018 New Zealand management and sustainability. Share Farmers of the Year, Gerard “It’s extremely positive to see such Boerjan from Hawke’s Bay-Wairarapa dedication to these issues within became the 2018 New Zealand Dairy the industry.”
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PGG Wrightson Steak of Origin semi-finalists announced
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With the semi-finalists announced in the PGG Wrightson Steak of Origin competition, Beef + Lamb New Zealand Inc are one step closer to naming the country’s most tender and tasty steak for 2018. Of the competition’s 266 entries, 53 are being sent through to the semi-finals after a series of extensive scientific tests. These tests, conducted by Carne Technologies in Hamilton, are based on tenderness, percentage cooking loss in weight, marbling colour, water binding capacity and pH. Among the semi-finalists in the Best of Breed — Crossbreed and other category is Clem Smith of Feilding with an Angus/Hereford, processed at Land Meat. In the Best of Brand — Wholesale and Foodservice section is AngusPure of Ashhurst with an Angus, also processed at Land Meat. Sixteen of New Zealand’s top chefs and foodies will form a judging panel to determine the top three steaks from each of the competition’s eight classes. The top steaks will go through to the final. Judging criteria of the cooked steak include; aroma, taste/flavour,
tenderness, juiciness and texture. Head judge, Graham Hawkes, has been involved in the competition for 15 years. Mr Hawkes is the owner and executive chef of the renowned Paddington Arms in Invercargill. He said the competition is the pinnacle for any beef producer. “It sets the benchmark for quality produce, helping guide chefs on where their ingredients come from. “It’s also about ensuring New Zealanders are receiving the highest quality produce.” The Steak of Origin competition is open to all New Zealand beef farmers, retailers, wholesalers and foodservice suppliers. This year 138 entries have been received in the farmer classes and 128 in the brand competition. The grand final will be held at the New Zealand Agricultural Fieldays at Mystery Creek on Wednesday, June 13.
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May 2018 MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES
SHOWCASING TO
THE WORLD BY ANN MORGAN
This is part two of Cheryl Eldridge’s story of being passionate about a rare breed of grey sheep and New Zealand wool. With her husband Barry, she has diversified the farming activities on their property Stansborough Station and developed the breed, which is now called ‘Stansborough Grey’.
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heryl and her two sons personally sort and class every fleece into three shades of grey as the sheep are shorn. This is done twice annually to keep the quality at its best for textile production. Cheryl has a background in the creative arts, along with daughter Kiri, and designs all the fabrics, accessories and finished product range. “The wool comes in dark, mid and silver grey, and within these preselected tones there is a whole spectrum, which creates the marvelous, almost metallic sheen,” says Cheryl. “I started working alone, in a shed with one loom, and now have six historic looms and a wide blanket loom, and we
are training a couple of apprentices to pass on the knowledge we have. “The yarn is better spun as fine worsted, and then it is combed to enhance the lustre. The demand for the fibre is such, that we cannot supply generally because all our yarn is used in-house.” The fibre can be woven, knitted and felted, and all processes are used to produce the unique Stansborough designs. The yarn is taken to the Stansborough Mill in Wellington for weaving. The looms at the mill weave their own strands of history, dating from the early 1890s. “They are amongst the first mechanical looms ever designed and Stansborough station is a family business and is run with the help of the Eldridges son, Gavin
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add, rather than detract, from the general impression of intense individual involvement in production. Depending on the complication of each different weave, it can take two days to hand thread and set up each loom before weaving,” says Cheryl. “This intensity of involvement is in all parts of the process between farm and final products that are totally distinctive. Our inspiration for designs come from the environment in which the animals are farmed, tree barks, leaf forms and stunning vistas. Our team have spent years developing the many complicated undulating twill derived and other weaves, and our resulting fabric has a unique handmade and natural feel, quite different to other mass-produced commercial products.” The fabric has beautiful draping qualities, enhanced by the careful — sometimes created by hand — finishing to emphasise the lustre, drape and handling. “We have travelled the world and opened the markets up and we do a lot of high-end quality designs for international clients, but 50 per cent of our business is still national.” Throws, ties, scarves, wraps and cloaks have been fashioned from the gleaming Stansborough fabric. “We have worked a lot with the movie industry: including producing garments and items for the Hobbit, Lord of the Rings, The Chronicles of Narnia, Spartacus, Pete’s Dragon, The Water Horse and Kidnapped. It has
been an honour to present New Zealand creations to the world. I believe wool has been underrated as a natural product — we could be using the lower grade wool across the country to make healthy and sustainable insulation for every home and slippers for children in schools and the elderly. “The value of it being breathable and environmentally friendly, safe, fire resistant and healthy is important to many people. We are looking after the planet long-term by using natural fibres — people want things that will last in their homes for years to come and have something to snuggle up and you get natural comfort from wool — unlike man made fibres. You can use so many different types of wool — it just needs good imagination — our grey wool can be mixed with other fibres, including Alpaca and bamboo, and we want to use hemp in the future. “Wool absorbs energy and when used in carpet, you don’t get the gases that carpet glues used in synthetic gives off. Cheryl has worked furnished super yachts, boutique lodges and designer homes in New Zealand and overseas. Their designer blanket range has been gifted to VIPs worldwide, and has the backing of Campaign for Wool — led by Prince Charles. The Stansborough label is now recognised on the world stage for its innovative and highly prized, sustainable, textile creations. “We had no idea the results would be seen on cinema screens around the world.
Alpacas are also a feature on the station where their fleece is mixed with wool to create a variety of yarns
“The Lord of the Rings movies was our ultimate challenge, but now exporting to growing high-end markets is our biggest achievement. We are pleased we found that flock of grey sheep, now registered as a wool breed in their own
right, ‘Stansborough Greys’, when the downturn happened in farming in 1991 “The many years of selective breeding and hard work has certainly paid off and it is wonderful to take New Zealand to the world.”
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May 2018 MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES
Young farmer
focussed on dairy career by Denise Gunn Lachlan Fee has experienced a mixture of sheep, beef, and dairy farming, as well as a stint contract fencing, but the Marton Young Farmers Club vice-chairman has settled on a dairying career.
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s the son of parents in the New Zealand Defence Force, Lachlan’s childhood involved a series of moves from his Feilding birthplace. “I grew up as an army brat moving around the country and world,” said Lachlan. The family lived in Feilding, Burnham, Wanganui, the US and Palmerston North. Farming was a common thread in the background though, and Lachlan spent time with family members on their farms. “My grandfather was a sheep and beef farmer, and I spent many school holidays following him around, and a couple of uncles were dairy farmers
where I spent a few holidays following cows down the track.” said Lachlan. Lachlan saw dairy farming as an ideal industry to gain a broad range of skills. “And it was obvious there was more chance of a quick progression through the industry,” he said. At the age of 15, Lachlan took up his first full-time position as a farm worker on Andrew Hoggard’s 300ha dairy farm north of Feilding. Work on other farms followed, including a position as a fencer general on the 28,300ha Ngamatea Station near Taihape. Now, ten years on, the 26-yearold is currently managing a 600-cow
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intensive dairy farm at Opiki. Lachlan has managed the 115ha property for the past two seasons, milking a herd of Holstein Friesians. “I’m getting ready for my first season contract milking next season,” he said. The variety of work that comes with each day on a dairy farm has been a big drawcard to the industry for Lachlan. “No day is ever the same,” he said. “Yes, milking cows gets a bit monotonous but the technology and ways of doing things is forever changing, and it keeps life interesting.” Although Lachlan hasn’t faced any major challenges so far in his dairying career, he admits that early on his youth and immaturity caused a few issues. “But as I’ve grown and taken on more responsibility, the challenges are mostly farm-based.” Lachlan’s focus and commitment to his career saw him take third place in the 2016 Manawatu Dairy Manager of the Year category. Five years ago Lachlan joined Marton Young Farmers and has held the position of vice-chairperson for the past three years. “I enjoy the social gathering and contacts you gain from getting properly involved.” When interviewing for next season’s jobs, Lachlan found his involvement with Young Farmers and the community was looked on favourably by prospective employers. He said these aspects pushed his Curriculum Vitae in front of more experienced people.
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Early in his career, Lachlan worked as a fencer general on Ngamatea Station Following a win in this year’s Young Farmers district contest, Lachlan was one of eight finalists in the Taranaki/ Manawatu Regional Final of the FMG Young Farmer of the Year. Lachlan was stoked to finally win a district contest, after placing third twice. “It seemed like I was always the bridesmaid, never the bride,” he said. The regional final was held recently in Wellington where competitors tackled a series of modules and a fast-paced
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agri-knowledge quiz. A draw in the AgriSports Challenge saw Lachlan and another Marton Young Farmers member, Michael McCombs, share that title. Back on the farm, Lachlan plans to put his time and energy into his first season self-employed. He has set a goal to be 50/50 sharemilking in five years time. Lachlan and his wife Rhianne celebrated the arrival of their first child over Easter.
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May 2018 MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES
dairy farming ladder by Denise Gunn While growing up in Dannevirke, the only childhood connection Angela Strawbridge had to the agricultural industry was limited to holidays on family farms. Now the 2018 Manawatu Dairy Manager of the Year has 21 years of farming experience behind her.
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ngela’s first 17 years in the dairy industry were spent working on a Norsewood dairy farm. Four years ago she began working for Stewart Dairylands, on James and Debbie Stewart’s 180ha farm near Bunnythorpe. After two years relief milking and calfrearing, Angela was promoted to her current full-time farm management role. The Stewart family has farmed the 600ha property for more than 100 years. Previously a sheep farm, in more recent times the family gradually made a move to dairying. Stewart Dairylands was formed in 1999, and the farm’s 850 cows are split evenly on two blocks, each covering 180ha. On the block Angela manages, 410 cows are milked in a 36-a-side
herringbone shed. Angela said all 850 cows are calved on her block. “They are then shifted to the other block until 430 cows are reached.” Calves and young stock are reared on a 240ha run-off. Spending the majority of the day outdoors and working with large animals is Angela’s main drawcard to dairy farming. “They have their own personalities and characteristics, which makes it worth going out and working with them every day.” As part of the block management, Angela is responsible for the decisions surrounding the herd, grass and supplements. “I really enjoy being able to grow quality pasture,” she said.
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Working with large animals is Angela’s main drawcard to dairy farming “Since being in the DairyNZ Tiller Talk group, I have learnt a lot more around pasture and utilising well, with regular pasture walks and recording.” The 37-year-old believes pasture management is fundamental to their system of being free range, having grass-fed animals and working with the natural environment of producing costcompetitive feed. “It is a privilege and great responsibility to be able to make a living from the land,” said Angela. “Great care and good management practices are needed with ongoing education to limit farming’s footprint.” The farm’s location on clay soils means
the ground can be either very wet or dry within a short space of time. Angela said minimising damage is non-negotiable. “The lower stocking rate and wet or dry soils mean feeding levels can change very quickly, and feed management is critical. Quick decisions need to be made.” The farm’s support block and 500cow feed pad are used during extreme weather conditions. Over summer the eight hectares each of chicory and turnips are fed out. Other supplementary feeds include 90 tonnes of PKE, 300 tonnes of maize silage and 200 tonnes of grass silage.
Angela with her three children — Jessica (17), Calum (13), and Brooke (9) With one full-time employee and a number of relief milkers, Angela also organises staff rosters and runs both weekly and fortnightly meetings. Her staff management skills were also recognised at the Manawatu Dairy Industry Awards as she won the Employee Engagement section. “People are what hold all our values together,” said Angela. “Culture is important with trust, respect, honesty and responsibility being the key traits held by people involved with operations.” She said health and safety is part of having a happy workplace too. “We work together to ensure hazards and risks
are identified so we can all finish the day safely.” The Stewart family are always keen to help their employees, provide opportunities and focus on the work and life balance. Angela balances her work and life through coaching and umpiring her children’s sports teams. She continues to study as well, recently completing the New Zealand diploma in agribusiness management level five. She found numerous benefits to entering the dairy awards, including making new connections with other contestants and using the judges’ feedback to improve and progress.
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May 2018
MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES
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Understanding osteoarthritis by John Arts
Part 2 Last week we saw that damage to specialised cartilage cells called chondrocytes was the first step in the development of osteoarthritis (OA). Research suggests that chondrocytes can be damaged by physical damage from accidents or gradually probably from insufficient dietary antioxidants. Cartilage is a tough matrix that includes living chondrocytes. The matrix of cartilage is a combination of proteins (mostly collagen), glycosaminoglycan (GAG) and water. The most abundant GAG is chondroitin sulphate. In my opinion, adding correct amounts of high-grade chondroitin is the single most important part of OA therapy. Cartilage is 80% water, which is why it acts as a shock absorber. GAG such as chondroitin readily attracts water. This is an important reason to stay well hydrated — a real problem with our ageing population. Cartilage then has two main components. What you see is the tough cartilage matrix. What you don’t see is the tiny chondrocytes tucked away in tiny cocoons called lacunae. When working properly, chondrocytes act like repair kits for cartilage. They actively
secrete new cartilage matrix when damaged or worn. My nutritional therapy for OA is firstly based on protecting chondrocytes by adding antioxidants. These include curcumin from turmeric but others such as trace minerals like selenium and grape seed extract. We then add compounds that help stimulate chondrocytes to make cartilage especially chondroitin but also glucosamine. I have one client who had a damaged shoulder and hip. Both caused him real problems. We increased antioxidants and added my joint complex, and he reports he is largely pain-free. I like to initially add 1500mg of both chondroitin and glucosamine with about 400mg of 95% curcumin extract (from turmeric). This is usually sufficient to start the healing process and often bring significant relief. 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 423559 or email john@abundant.co.nz. Join his full weekly newsletter at abundant.co.nz.
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Fonterra’s Brightwater dairy factory is set to reduce its carbon dioxide emissions by 25 per cent following an industry first move that will significantly reduce the site’s reliance on coal. Thanks to funding support from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority, conversion is about to get underway on Brightwater’s existing coal boiler, adding capacity to burn wood biomass to generate steam. The move will cut emissions from the factory by around 2,400 tonnes a year — roughly the same as taking 530 cars off the road. Fonterra chief operating officer global operations, Robert Spurway, says the move to a co-fired boiler decreases reliance on fossil fuels and is a significant step towards achieving Fonterra’s emission reduction targets. “Last year we joined forces with the Ministry for the Environment to develop a roadmap to a low emissions future, which included a commitment to undertake a demonstration of co-firing wood biomass with coal at one of our sites,” he said. “Now, with the support of EECA, we are putting our co-firing strategy into action. Brightwater’s transition to a lower emission energy source is a tangible step toward achieving our target of reducing our Global Operations emissions by 30 per cent by 2030, and our longer-term goal of net zero emissions by 2050.” EECA business group manager market engagement, Greg Visser, says the
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What we offer • A free, no obligation assessment of your trees, with personal service and advice • A NZ owned and operated company, with sound referrals • Guaranteed payments • Pre-funding of road and skid construction, to agrees levels, with no finance charges • Highly experienced staff to manage the harvesting & marketing of your trees • Experienced, quality contractors to harvest and transport your trees
• A range of hauler & ground based contractor harvesting options available • Access to domestic sawmills in the region • Export sales through NZ’s largest log export company • Options of managed or graded sales, and/or lump sum purchase, where appropriate, to provide a solution that suits each individual forest owner • Followup re-establishment and forest management advice
FOMS Ltd www.foms.co.nz | Ph: 06 323 5621 | F: 06 323 5372 Vince Devane: 027 860 0061
MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES May 2018
Who are you going to call?
11
Considering the contractors The farm environment can be a hazardous one, and health and safety considerations extend to all personnel involved in agricultural and pastoral activities. This obviously includes contractors and subcontractors who play a major role on farms. Farm owners’ and managers’ responsibilities extend to the health and safety of everyone who works on the farm — full-time, parttime, casual employees, contractors and their employees, subcontractors and consultants. Worksafe NZ has laid down guidelines for both principal and contractor. Contractors and subcontractors have the same duty of care to their employees as any other employer. Contractors need to know what the principal’s (farmer’s) health and safety procedures are so they can assess their employees’ safety on-site. Farm owners and managers must work with contractors to make sure they share a common understanding of the hazards that workers face and how the site will be made safe. “Such things as forecast drought and the lower forecast milk price could see some farmers under huge pressure,” says Rural Contractors NZ president, Steve Levet. “However, there are things on-farm that have to be done — no matter what — such as supplementary feed
and crop harvesting. Contractors are professionals and are especially set-up to help out when these jobs need to be done on-farm.” Rural Contractors is the only national association and the leading advocate for rural contractors in the country, and while accrediting members to provide assurance to farmers of the qualifications and reliability of its members, the organisation also monitors central and local government policies, plans and proposals on behalf of its membership. It also maintains close relations with a wide number of organisations, government departments and other national bodies. This assures best practice when the contractor, staff and machinery move onto the farm. RCNZ represent the interests of contractors engaged in a wide range of activities such as land development, drainage, fencing, cultivation and planting, harvesting of crops, highway vegetation, parks, reserves and landscaping, chemical application, sheep dipping and direct drilling. RCNZ monitors central and local government policies, plans and proposals on behalf of their membership. They also
WE ARE THE TREE EXPERTS 100% GUARANTEED Professionally Qualified to Deliver a Quality Service • All Tree Removals • Tree Reductions • Confined Tree Removals • Formative pruning • Fruit Tree Pruning • Total Tree & Shrub Management • Storm Damage • Stump Grinding • Wood Splitting • Fire Wood • Landscape Design & Construction • Consultancy Service • Full Insurance
maintain close relations — and lobby on behalf of their members — with a wide number of organisations, government
Terrace End Auto Services Well priced agricultural and automotive batteries available
departments and other national bodies. Affiliated contractors can be found on the RCNZ website.
• Household & Lifestyle Blocks • Sales & Service on All Pumps
• W.O.F’s & W.O.F Repairs • Servicing • Auto repairs • Engine work • Steering • Suspension • Tyres • Brakes/ clutches • Cam belts
• Water Installations & Repairs
“Small town mechanics in the city”
Peter Hyslop: RD8, Palmerston North Ph: 06 329 2586 or 027 488 3986
839 Main Street, Palmerston North (Opposite Memorial Park behind the Caltex)
Austin Teulon | (06) 357 7361
• Farm Effluent Systems
COUNCIL APPROVED ARBORIST, MEMBER OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ARBORICULTURE
For competitive quotes and advice you can trust
www.guardiantreeservices.co.nz
06 354 6990
Cow & Horse Processing in Levin No Moore Hassel Pet Food is an MPI approved and recognised primary meat processor. Based in Levin we offer local farmers a free and highly professional pick-up service for unwanted healthy cows and horses in the Manawatu-Wanganui region.
HUGHES GLASS Specialists in
Reglazing • New Glazing • Mirrors Furniture Glass • Cat Doors Good Rates
DAVE Ph 06 358 4308 Mobile 027 635 8979 6 David Street, Palmerston North dave@hughesglass.co.nz
If you would prefer to transport your animal yourself or have your horse or cow put down on the farm then we can arrange this with a No Hassell guarantee.
About Us
Our in-house processing plant enables us to guarantee the consistent quality and reliability of the process from the picking-up to the putting-down of the animal. As a recognised specialist you can rest assured that our years of expertise and close connection to the farming industry makes our service as convenient, respectful and professional as it can be.
Call us today!
06 368 2106
Levin Hokio Beach Rd, Levin 5510
nmhpetfoods.co.nz
12
May 2018
MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES
W H O A R E YO U G O I N G T O C A L L ?
Transporting stock safely When it comes to transporting stock, there are a number of things to remember, which will make the process as easy as possible for all involved. When hiring a carrier, ensure they know the regulations and that they keep their truck and any relevant equipment clean and free from disease, so infections are not spread from property to property. Where necessary make sure all stock being transported are NAIT registered, and all relevant paperwork is available.
BROADWAY ACCOUNTING SOLUTIONS
• Accounting and Business Services • Planning and Succession • Business Growth Services • Business Establishment Services • Payroll and GST preparation • All aspects of Office Support and Administration • Tax Return Preparation • Quick Turnaround on Annual Accounts • Xero Training and Assistance
306a Broadway Avenue Palmerston North (06) 952-4646
stuart@accountingsolutions.nz www.accountingsolutions.nz
Dealing with waste and keeping effluent off the roads is one of the major responsibilities from the farmer, the stockbroker, the transport company, those at the destination and local and regional councils. Ensure that the effluent tanks are empty before setting off. It is important to keep stock off green feed for at least four hours before they are loaded onto the truck. The law takes animal welfare very seriously and has strict rules relating to animal transport and suffering. The person in charge must examine the selected stock prior to transport, to ensure that all animals are fit and healthy for transportation. All animals must be able to stand and bear weight on all four limbs and be fit enough to withstand the journey without suffering unreasonable or unnecessary pain or distress unless a current veterinary certificate as to the fitness of the animal for transport is completed. Any animal likely to give birth during transport must not be selected. All infected Mycoplasma bovis properties under a Restricted Place Notice require permits to move animals between properties and to slaughter. The permits require the truck to be cleaned and disinfected at the end of
each movement. Controls set in place include a comprehensive cleaning and disinfection protocol which has been provided to the driver by the Ministry for Primary Industries. This protocol ensures that vehicles pose a negligible biosecurity risk. All vehicles are being cleaned and disinfected on leaving the properties. Vehicles carrying animals to the meat processing premises — are disinfecting on exit, going directly to the meat processor (not to other farms) and then being thoroughly cleaned and disinfected at the plant on completing the job. New Zealand Livestock Transport Assurance has been set up at the instigation of some of New Zealand’s major processing companies: AFFCO New Zealand, South Pacific Meats Ltd, Canterbury Meat Packers, Riverlands Meats, Ovation New Zealand and Silver Fern Farms.
The NZLTA programme’s purpose is to ensure that all livestock being transported to processing plants are treated humanely and with proper regard for their welfare, meeting the requirements of the New Zealand Code of Animal Welfare. All trucking operators transporting stock to these company’s plants must be a member of the NZLTA. Their drivers must be trained by an NZLTA-approved trainer and registered with the NZLTA. To ensure that operators and drivers continue to meet the NZLTA’s standards — audits of drivers, vehicles and animals will be carried out at processor sites by the processing company and AsureQuality staff. When engaging a stock transporter, ensure they are up-to-date and aware of the relevant processes required for moving your animals.
Smell or see something that doesn’t belong in our environment?
CALL THE POLLUTION HOTLINE 0508 800 800
WELDING
STEEL FABRICATION
MACHINING
SEISMIC STRENGTHENING
PIPE BENDING & FORMING
METAL PROTECTION
PRESS BRAKE
GUILLOTINING
WATER CUTTING
Leaders in Engineering, Fabrication & Manufacturing We've built an impressive track record providing specialist design and engineering services to a range of industries throughout the country, from the far north to the deep south. We continually push the boundaries of our industry to refine its capacity to deliver exactly what each client needs.
Email: sales@ducare.co.nz • Phone: 0508 382 273 Visit our website: www.ducare.co.nz THE STRENGTH TO DO MORE
24 HOUR FARM AND FLEET SERVICE
PUNCTURE REPAIRS WHEEL ALIGNMENT
TYRE FITTING BALANCING VULCANISED TYRE REPAIRS
CAR – TRUCK – AGRICULTURE – EARTHMOVER – IMPLEMENT TYRES
WE ARE ABLE TO SUPPLY MOST BRANDS 20/22 Malden Street PALMERSTON NORTH P (06) 357 0234
Stan — 021 0233 5483 | Casey — 021 335 469
MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES May 2018
W H O A R E YO U G O I N G T O C A L L ?
13
Those important jobs
by Ann Morgan
100
When it comes to owning rural property, the responsibilities and maintenance can seem endless, and when ensuring things are done correctly, it is best to enlist the help of qualified professionals when the job at hand is out of your experience.
IT’S NOT A TARGET
With winter fast approaching and the weather becoming more unhelpful, now is a good time to check the state of your trees and check your waterways are clear. Hiring an experienced contractor means you have access to all of their knowledge — not just for land-clearing issues, but often tree maintenance and removal, drain and waterway clearing as well as other miscellaneous tasks at hand, which can often be dealt with by the one person. Have the contractor come in and check your large trees for safety, particularly if you are relatively new to the rural lifestyle. Removing or trimming
them before the wet weather hits can save a lot of damage and stress. Falling trees can endanger your life as well as your livestock, break fences or buildings and block waterways meaning the job becomes much more major and costly. Bringing in a contractor to help with silage, lucerne or haymaking requirements can save time and money on equipment. They can help from the cutting to the wrapping and stacking, freeing you up to take care of your everyday jobs. Clearing drains is easy when someone has the right machinery and experience to keep your water flowing throughout your land. A blocked creek can cause
intense flooding and animal loss not to mention the risk of damage to equipment and buildings. Keeping waterways clear from debris such as fallen trees or sludge build up helps maintain more than just the water channel, it helps avoid many a negative experience. Installing new power poles and the like is also a job a contractor can help with as well as preparing an underpass
Rotary Hoes
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0800 500 275
sales@fieldmaster.co.nz www.fieldmaster.co.nz
68 Adams Drive Pukekohe
HARRIS CONTRACTING SANSON
Pr eN Or ow de ! r
McConnel 9ft topping mower, excellent order �����������$9,000+gst Hardi’s sprayer 500L tank, 6mtr boom, good order��$2,500+gst
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The Electric Bike Specialists..... 6 Centennial Dr, Hokowhitu Palmerston North | www.ezyrider.bike
OPEN: 8.00am – 5.00pm Weekdays, 9.00am – 3.00pm Saturdays Gate 128, SH1 North, Foxton (look for sign opp Foxton Golf Course)
M 027 240 9381 E naturalbark@inspire.net.nz
P 06 363 5236 W www.naturalbark.co.nz
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May 2018
MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES
W H O A R E YO U G O I N G T O C A L L ?
CLEANWATER
ADVERTORIAL
Chainsaw education a priority
SOLUTIONS
We specalise in: Water Delivery Water Tank Cleaning Water Blasting Free Quotes Mobile EFTPOS available Contact: Andre Groeneveld 027 447 7447 andre@cleanwatersolutions.co.nz www.cleanwatersolutions.co.nz
Your choice is Clear
The chainsaw is an indispensable labour-saving aid used by thousands of New Zealand farmers, firewood gatherers and other non-vocational users. It makes light work of felling and cutting up trees, but a chainsaw deserves to be treated with respect. Carelessly used, inadequately maintained or incorrectly equipped, a chainsaw can be a lethal weapon. WorkSafe is concerned at the number of accidents involving chainsaws in the workplace and has produced this guideline for anyone who is an occasional chainsaw user. All-Tree Services are increasingly hearing from businesses and the general public that they understand the importance of focussing on critical risks — the risks that can kill people or
• Supply & Installation of Spouting • Repairs or Full Replacement • Klass and Taylor Guttering Refurbishment • Insurance Claims • Maintenance • Gutter Cleaning & Unblocking • Down Pipe Installation
Brian Brock Ph: 027 453 8677 | Email: brock3@xtra.co.nz 9 Wallace Place, Hokowhitu, Palmerston North
KEEP YOUR WORKERS SAFE! Could you live with yourself? The risk it too great! Certificate of Competency Chainsaw Operation & Safety
cause them life-changing harm. The best way to prevent serious incidents is to focus on controlling these critical risks, training, and education along with a firm understanding of how to maintain and use a chainsaw currently is a must. Too many people buy a chainsaw without a full understanding of what can happen if not educated on how to use it correctly. All-Tree Services have put together a one-day Chainsaw Operation and Safety Competency Course — costeffective at $175 per person and are running them monthly.
We cater to individuals that have purchased their first chainsaw, those that have used a chainsaw for years and businesses that want to keep their staff safe. With safety and well-being being top of mind for business, farmers and the general public, the days of unskilled use of a chainsaw have passed. Worksafe is hot on the subject and to be honest; the risk is far too great to put yourself, your employees or the general public at risk. Call All-Tree Services on 06 357 8199 to register your interest.
One day course special $175
06 357 8199
alltreeservices.co.nz
Instantly transform your unsightly water tank or fence into an eye catching work of art! Our ‘wraps’ are cost effective and maintenance free.
06 358 6313 • 027 361 4341 www.tankart.co.nz
Carpet King
WE CAN PROVIDE “WHOLE OF HOUSE” CONSTRUCTION SERVICES.
Flooring Design
- Pre-fabricated & Finished Products - Supply & Install Services - Site & Project Services
Service and Excellence You Can Trust!
Free no obligation quantity estimates. Come in and see the team at Crighton ITM, with THREE stores strategically located throughout the Lower North Island.
Store hours: Monday - Friday 7.00am - 5.00pm Saturdays 8.00am - 12.00 Noon 15 - 19 HOKIO BEACH ROAD, LEVIN
• PH: 06 368 4057 • sales@crightons.co.nz
201 MAIN STREET, GREYTOWN
• PH: 06 304 7193 • sales@crightonsgtown.co.nz
123 HUTT PARK ROAD, SEAVIEW
• PH: 04 568 3896 • sales@crightonslh.co.nz
• Carpets • Vinyls • Wood Free measure and quote – Finance available
Ph: 06 355 3079 • Fax 06 355 3077 648 Tremaine Avenue, Palmerston North sales@carpetking.kiwi • www.flooringdesign.co.nz
MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES May 2018
W H O A R E YO U G O I N G T O C A L L ?
15
Working with balance by Ann Morgan
Health and safety is something we are all aware of and keeping our health at an optimum level is important to everyone in our lives including staff, contractors, neighbours, friends and family. Taking care of ourselves and those around us should be our number one priority and ensuring we take time out needs to be a regular thing, and there are a variety of things people are doing off-farm during the various cycles of the year, which in turn helps keep our minds that much clearer. DairyNZ research shows there are key contributors to a person’s overall wellness and it will be a different experience that will work for each person. Some people enjoy catching up with other farmers and see how they are doing things differently and have a healthy discussion over farm systems to keep on top of their game — whilst others attend events. Fishing is often referred to as a calming activity and is on many a calendar at least once a month, even if it is just for a few hours. The costs are minimal, and you can go alone, with friends or family. The same goes for surfing — a few hours out amongst the waves is often referred to as exhilarating and calming. Hunting, playing sports or going for a bike ride with the family are also recommended activities. Some families eat dinner around the table most nights without technology present and they each share one good thing and one bad thing they experienced that day. This provides an opportunity to know what each person is up to. Have a budget and plan set in advance, so you know your financial
Certified Installer Monier concrete tiles Metro (pressed metal) tiles Long run New roof Reroofs Repair and insurance work carried out
ANTHONY McCREERY “MACCA”
P: 06 355 2790 F: 06 355 2792 M: 021 253 2051 E: mccreery@xtra.co.nz PO BOX 20003 Summerhill, Palmerston North 4448
position and if necessary, discuss succession plans and the future of the farm, so your family know where things are headed. During calving or lambing, some people stop and spend a few minutes each day watching the babies play whilst others walk on the farm as often as possible. If you are out for the day, have good sustenance with you in the form of fruit and nuts, sandwiches and healthy food and don’t forget the water or health tonic to stay hydrated. No matter how busy things get, stay connected to your friends and family and have time for a laugh with mates. Having good friends and support ensures the not so good times are easier to handle.
DON’T LET THIS BE YOUR REALITY.
CALL US FOR A FREE QUOTE TODAY!
LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE and leave the comment: “Warm feet matter” before 30 June 2018 for your chance to win a pair of extra-warm New Zealand Made Merino Socks!
Trained installers and 51 years in business — We know our stuff.
Manawatu Heating & Solar 989 Kairanga Bunnythorpe Rd. PH (06) 356 4729 / M 021 2745345 www.manawatuheatingandsolar.co.nz
CONTACT US P: 06 354 2755 • MOB: 027 571 8901 E: ayoung@rangitikeifloorings.com 691 Main St, Terrace End, Palmerston North
Stumpies Services Ltd. Your Stump Grinding Professional
STUMP GONE 06 343 7913
7 DAYS A WEEK
LANDSCAPING MATERIALS In bulk and in bags 20 BULK BINS
DELIVERIES
Made from untreated macrocarpa timber, 100% ecofriendly. NO NAILING REQUIRED!
Wool & Nylon Carpets Sheet Vinyl • Vinyl Planks & Tiles Floating Wood Floors • Cork Tiles
www.stumpies.co.nz 15 Mitchell St, Wanganui
IT’S NOT A TARGET
WE ARE OPEN & DELIVER
KITSET VEGGIEBOXES
WE SUPPLY AND INSTALL
100 Our Pole Sheds are awesome!!!
Bring a TRAILER, HIRE one of ours, or we can DELIVER up to 2 bulk products in 1 delivery! FREE DELIVERY TO P.N & LINTON For loads 2m3 or more
DO YOU PUT ON EXTRA LAYERS INDOORS? All you need is a heating system to enjoy winter from the confort and warmth of your house.
If you or someone you know needs help, your local doctor is a good place to start and don’t forget the Rural Support Trust is there for everyone and is run by local people who are well-networked and trained — phone 0800 787 254.
CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FOR OUR FULL RANGE OF BOXES AND BULK MATERIALS
www.landscape-supply-yard.co.nz 114 Summerhill Dr, Palmerston North Ph: 06 929 4002
RuralLink Buildings can be custom designed to your specifications and are Exclusive to Eastown
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eastown
TIMBER & FENCING
QUALIT Y TI M B E R, B EST PR ICES 4 Holyoake Street, Wanganui East. Ph: 349 0040 Open: Mon-Fri 7:30am to 5pm Sat: 8:30 am - Noon www.eastownbuildlink.co.nz
BARGES, RIDGING, SPOUTING
To suit your colonial house Made from copper, stainless, coloursteel, galvanized. Rainheads, flues, cowls, and even thermettes.
You want it . . .
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Find us on WANGANUI PLUMBING LTD.
168 Somme Parade 06 343 9763 | wangplumbing@xtra.co.nz
16
May 2018
MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES
W H O A R E YO U G O I N G T O C A L L ?
Look after your plumbing
All farms and rural properties at one time or another have waterworks issues, maintenance or upgrading of equipment necessities and engaging a master plumber is your best guarantee of quality workmanship. Dairy systems, water pumps, drain laying, septic systems, irrigation, water tank installation and household plumbing all need expert knowledge. No matter how skilled one is at maintenance
Offering assistance for ear problems in adults and children. • Glue ear • Runny ear • Itchy ears • Removal of earwax by suction, a much kinder and safer method of removing wax. The only acceptable method for tinnitus sufferers Clinics in Palmerston North and more! For an appointment please call 0800 444 333"
in the home, and contrary to what some people think, plumbers do far more than just sink and toilet repairs — they work to ensure your home is protected from water and plumbing related accidents, like pipes bursting in winter or flooding. With their expert knowledge of plumbing systems, they can run a plumbing inspection on your home, cowshed or other situation and come with the tools needed to fix the issue then and there. If you have a leak or plumbing fault, instead of messing around with your own pipes and systems, a professional will know exactly where to start looking and how to fix it. If a leak is a full-blown flooding or burst pipe, they will also know how to change the entire pipeline, and know the safety procedures to undertake. Hiring a professional means that the job is done efficiently, without wasted time and money. Master Plumbers is a national membership organisation that represents excellence in the plumbing, gasfitting and drain-laying trades. It
For all your rural matters come and see the talented and dynamic CR Rural team.
started back in 1901 when a dedicated group of plumbers got together to ensure the very highest standards in New Zealand’s plumbing industry. Today there are 17 associations and branches up and down the country, and the organisation are committed to nurturing future generations of skilled tradespeople through the Master Plumbers-owned Masterlink group apprentice training scheme. The ongoing Quality Assurance review process considers everything from a member business’s health and safety
systems to its terms and conditions of trade and employment contracts. Master Plumbers also provide members with a wide range of resources and training opportunities to support them in staying up with the latest technologies, products and compliance requirements because they want to ensure their members are able to give customers top quality service and workmanship, backed by the one-year residential Master Plumbers Guarantee. To find a registered master plumber go to dontriskit.co.nz.
RONGOTEA SALEYARDS SPECIALISTS IN ALL CLASSES OF DAIRY, STORE AND FAT STOCK NZ Owned & Operated
Robyn Annand, Caroline McHardy, Alexandra Smith, Kirsten Harper
Contact us on 06 323 4282 19 Manchester Street, Feilding • www.crrural.co.nz • law@crlaw.co.nz
KP CONTRACTING
AGRICULTURAL CONTRACTORS
• Ploughing • Cultivation • Drilling & Direct Drilling (grass seed, grains, squash maize) • Hay-Mowing & Pressing (coventional, rounds, medium square) • Harvesting (grass seed, wheat, barley, maize) • Spraying (pasture & cereal crops)
Contact: Kerry Ploen or Peter Fullerton Smith
027 443 7315 or 027 447 7345 Workshop: 06 329 6882 Fax: 06 329 6891 Email: kpcontracting@xtra.co.nz
Malcolm Coombe (Wanganui) Richard Trembath (Manawatu) Emmet McConnell (Manawatu) Darryl Harwood (Horowhenua) Cameron Smith (Pahiatua) Ross Karam (Wairarapa) Todd Bray (Hawkes Bay) Chris Hay (Wanganui) John Watson (Rangitikei) Clint Worthington (Dannevirke)
06 357 1875 06 354 2347 06 359 1602 06 356 5629 06 354 7892 06 308 6108 027 235 5991 027 602 4454 027 494 1975 021 209 2236
These are free phones direct to our mobiles. Office (06) 324 8135 Web www.mylivestock.co.nz
MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES May 2018
W H O A R E YO U G O I N G T O C A L L ?
17
QUICK INDEX CONTRACTORS Harris Contracting .................................................................... 027 4313 777 KP Contracting Ltd ..........................................06 329 6882/027 4437 315 Stumpies Services Ltd................................................................06 343 7913 BUILDING & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
RONGOTEA
All-Trees Services 2010 Ltd .................................................... 027 275 8965 Brocks Continuous Spouting .................................................. 027 4538 677
Phone (06) 324 8426
CBD Painters Manawatu ............................. 0800 2222 49/027 4375 769 Centrapump .............................................................................. 027 4883 986
• Pumps for All Purposes • Irrigation Systems • Bore Pumps • Water Purification
Clean Water Solutions ............................................................. 027 447 7447
• Farm Effluent Systems • Dairy Equipment • Reporoa Backing Gates
Carpet King Palmerston North ..................................................06 355 3079 Crightons ITM Building Centre Levin.........................................06 368 4057
GEA Farm Technologies
Eastown Timber and Fencing ....................................................06 349 0040
Leaders in Pump Technology
TEAT SPRAYING TECHNOLOGY AN
COMPANY
EFFLUENT PUMPS & SYSTEMS
EXCELLENCE INDAIRYING
Guardian Tree & Landscapes Services ................................. 027 217 0799
IMPROVING PRODUCTIVITY THROUGH INNOVATIVE DESIGN & ANYTIME SERVICE
Hughes Glass ...................................................06 358 4308/027 635 8979
F: (06) 324 8427 • E: info@farmsupplies.co.nz • W: www.farmsupplies.co.nz
McCreery Roofing Ltd .............................................................. 021 253 2051 Natural Bark and Compost ..................................................... 027 240 9381 Rangitikei Floorings ....................................................................06 354 2755 TankArt NZ Ltd ............................................................................06 358 6313 The Landscape Supply Yard .......................................................06 929 4002 Whanganui Plumbing Ltd ..........................................................06 343 9763 DAIRY & EFFLUENT Flexitanks NZ Ltd ............................................07 829 5940/021 289 5999 FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY Ear Health ................................................................................. 0800 444 333 FORESTRY Forest Owners Marketing Services ...............06 323 5621/027 860 0061 Sabre Logging........................................................................... 027 496 2546
CBD Painters Manawatu and CBD Home Solutions
GET READY FOR THE NEW SHARE MILKERS MOVING IN! PAINTING INTERIOR / EXTERIOR FIX INTERIOR WALL HOLES FIX BROKEN WINDOWS WHOLE HOUSE CLEAN, INSIDE & OUT
Before
After
ALL VEHICLES/ FARM MACHINERY Ducare NZ Ltd..............................................................................06 368 9913
SERVICING ALL THE MANAWATU AREA 0800 222 249
CBDpaintersmanawatu
Electric Bikes Manawatu ......................................................... 027 454 0048 Fieldmaster ............................................................................... 0800 500 275 Geartech Automotive........................................ 06 354 7590/021 395 836
437 5769 BRENDON 027 brendon.dorn@callplus.net.nz
047 1355 | 06 323 1210 CLIVE 021 clive.dorn@gmail.com
Ignite Tyre Service.......................................................................06 357 0234 Terrace End Auto Services Ltd ..................................................06 357 7361 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Broadway Accounting Solutions Ltd .........................................06 952 4646 CR Law Cooper Rapley Lawyers ................................................06 323 4282
OFFERING ALL LEVELS OF AGED CARE IN ONE CENTRE
Horizons Regional Council ...................................................... 0508 800 800 Ranfurly Manor Hospital & Rest Home....................................06 323 5050 FARMING & SUPPLIES Butch Jurgens Livestock Ltd ............................ 06 353 0148/021 757 336 Farm Supplies Central Ltd .........................................................06 324 8426 No Moore Hassell Pet Food .......................................................021 368 660 NZ Farmers Livestock Ltd ..............................06 324 8135/027 432 6104 Clean Sweep Woolsheds ......................................................... 027 682 1186 LESUIRE & TRAVEL
• Independent living, two bedroom units • Specialist Dementia level care • 2 Bedroom and 1 bedroom internal apartments available. 1 external unit available.
• Hospital level care
Fluffy Duck Charters Ltd ............................................................06 344 5611
6 Monmouth Street, Feilding, will provide all options of care:
Whanganui Visitors Centre ........................................................06 349 3216
For all enquires, contact Virginia Dyall–Kalidas
For a decent days fishing around Wanganui
ANFURLY RESIDENTIAL CARE CENTRE
Optimum Care Delivered in a Safe and Supportive Environment
Charter rates are $145 per person per trip with a maximum of 13. Individuals and smaller groups can be merged with others. Price includes rod hire, bait, and tea and coffee.
Owners Brian Smith & Paula Rodgers • Skipper Brian Smith Phone 06 344 5611 - Wanganui
Apartments Available
Work (06) 323 5050 • Email gm@ranfurlyrcc.co.nz Mobile 021 713 939 • www.ranfurlyrcc.co.nz
18
May 2018
MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES
LIVESTOCK
Mycoplasma bovis update The tracking of cattle disease Mycoplasma bovis shows that more farms than previously expected are likely to be affected by the disease. “While we always expected to find more properties, officials tell me that the numbers will likely exceed their earlier modelling. That modelling work is continuing, and we will have a clearer picture in the next couple of weeks,’ says Biosecurity Minister, Damien O’Connor. “MPI is continuing an intense programme of work with farming sector groups about the next best steps in the response — including containment and phased eradication.” Testing to date shows all infected properties are connected in some way. The tracing of Mycoplasma bovis is made harder by the poor use of
the national animal tracing system. “We could have tracked this more quickly if the system had been used properly. The previous Government’s inaction, lack of enforcement and promotion of NAIT has created major issues for hunting down Mycoplasma bovis. We will make changes to the NAIT system. “A cull of 22,000 cows is currently underway, with nearly half, 11,000 animals, destroyed. That cull is necessary to reduce the diseases spread through the national herd. I know farmers whose properties are under control restrictions face a difficult
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time. I am working hard to ensure the Government and sector make the best possible decision with the best possible information regarding Mycoplasma bovis. I expect that decision will come in the next few weeks.” Farmers should ensure any compensation claims they make related to Mycoplasma bovis are accurate, as it makes the process quicker. MPI and DairyNZ have boosted the number of people working directly with farmers
to assist in that process. “As of the beginning for May, 38 farms were active infected places, and another 40 were under Restricted Place Notice — considered highly likely to become infected. Nearly 1,700 properties are of interest because of risk events such as animal movements, the supply of milk for animal feed or because they are adjacent to infected properties,” says Mr O’Connor.
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MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES May 2018
DAIRY
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Securing exports partnership The signing of a partnership between New Zealand Customs and dairy exporter Synlait Milk Limited that will see the company joining the Customs Secure Exports Scheme has been welcomed. Customs Minister, Meka Whaitiri, visited the Synlait head office in Dunsandel, near Christchurch where she presented the certificate of partnership signed by Customs and Synlait. “New Zealand’s SES scheme gives members greater certainty at international borders and ensures minimal delay, and this partnership is an endorsement of the exporter’s standards of security on its chain of supply,” she said. “Synlait is one of the country’s most successful dairy businesses with a range of value-added products, including infant formula and milk powders. I am pleased they have joined this partnership, and I am confident they will find real benefits in the scheme.” Exporters approved for the SES have risk management plans that assure other countries that their goods are packed and transported securely. Customs currently has SES agreements with the United States, China, Australia, Japan and Korea. The SES is voluntary. “One of the government’s key priorities
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May 2018
MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES
WHEELS
Pay attention!
Conquest of the unknown by Andy Bryenton
We live in a nation where adventure tourism is king — people from all over the planet have New Zealand on their bucket list for our dramatic scenery and wild open spaces. With few wild animals to menace the outdoors trekker and a dizzying choice of terrains, from tundra to mountains to rainforests, it’s easy to see why we’re a top pick for the adventurous. And hard to see why many Kiwis haven’t explored their own backyard.
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A great way to remedy this situation is the classic combo of a road trip and two wheels. Adventure motorcycling has come a long way in recent years, and the price of getting on board a machine capable of bashing through the old Paris to Dakar or beating the Baja is more reasonable than ever. At the same time, technology has beefed up the bare-bones image of the old endurance motorcycle, so that now it’s easier than ever to travel in comfort. Leave your hiking shoes behind and get on board the latest Suzuki V-Strom — the formidable 1000x ABS. For novices, there’s always the 650cc model, but the big one-litre four-stroke is truly top of the tree when it comes to adventurous riding. With beefy power delivered by that thumping big v-twin mill — set low down in the frame for better weight distribution — and a sixspeed box delivering power via some serious rubber, the latest V-Strom lives
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up to its lineage with grip and torque aplenty. Both front and rear suspensions are fully adjustable, and this is where the techno-magic begins — that ABS in the name stands for one of the most advanced anti-lock and braking systems fitted to an adventure bike. Squeeze the front brake, and the rear brake comes on progressively for a safer
stop. Anti-lock technology has been taken to a new extreme, coming online not just when the bike is straight up and down, but also when it’s leaned into the corners. This inspires confidence, as does the intuitive riding position, the easy to read and understand control layout and the sheer low-down power of the V-Strom. Those who have previously not ventured off the tarmac of the open highway will take to the gravel and mud with ease, while those weaned on farm bikes and quads will find this a perfect hand in glove fit — just far more fun. There’s very little which beats being outside and part of the environment, and adventure riders know this feeling well. Introduce yourself to the latest V-Strom at your local Suzuki dealership and get the most out of New Zealand’s natural ‘adventure playground’.
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MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES May 2018
WHEELS
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Classic rock solo by Andy Bryenton
Of the entire new Holden Commodore range — a noteworthy first departure from the days of Australian design and production, but one with its own sense of style — there’s one vehicle, which stands out as still forcefully Kiwi. Or, to be generous, a bit Aussie too. That car is the Holden Commodore Tourer, a four-wheel drive, V6 turbo powered station wagon which bucks all kinds of trends. Firstly, it’s a station wagon in a world gone mad for SUVs. Sports utilities from the tiny to the gargantuan roam the roads in packs these days — Nissan’s catalogue, for example, features two sports cars but a whole family of crossovers and full-fledged S-Us. We have been told for some time now that the station wagon is headed for the scrap heap of history, and that the big four-door sedan is following so close behind you’d think it was being towed. Not so, says Holden, boldly putting forward a brand new car in 2018, which manages to evoke those summer holidays in the back of the Berlina while being utterly light years ahead of those old wagons of yesteryear. The new Commodore may be just as German in its underpinnings as an Audi Avant or a big Merc, but it just feels right for our local roads. The price is right too when compared to other large ‘estates’ from Europe, all of which top $100k in local dollars. And while the option for a roaring V8 behind the lion badge is gone, the able and willing turbocharged V6 you’ll find in Holden’s tourer more than gets the job done.
Most of those ancestral dad-owned Holden, Ford and Chrysler station wagons were straight six affairs anyhow — and lacked the fuel economy, realworld power or nine-speed automatic gearbox of this modern iteration. That’s the other thing you’ll notice about the Tourer — badged with the evocative name of Calais on these
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even a hands-free tailgate for loading and unloading all that camping gear. The Tourer, then, neatly answers the question ‘do I really want a new Commodore?’ by asking another one ‘Do you really need an SUV?’ If safety, space and a smooth ride are your thing — along with a certain sense of Kiwi family tradition — this is an understatedly cool ride.
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May 2018
MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES
Strong community focus
at Morikau Station by Denise Gunn Morikau Station won three categories at the recent Horizons Ballance Farm Environment Awards. Each award reflected the combined efforts of the station’s manager Hamish Thompson and his wife Katrina, staff, contractors, board members, shareholders and community.
T
he station covers 5,567ha in total (2,650ha effective), stretching from Huruharama (also known as Jerusalem) to Ranana (London) in the Whanganui River Valley. “About 5% of the property is undulating to rolling, 24% is rolling to moderately steep country, 67% is considered steep hill country, with the remaining 4% being steep to very steep gorges and hard hill country,” said Hamish. Owned by the Morikaunui Incorporation, Morikau Station is governed by seven board members representing 6,500 shareholders. Many of the shareholders who live near the station carry out casual work on the property taking up pole planting, gorse spraying, tree pruning, shearing and docking. “In the past three years, we’ve put just under $450,000 each year,
back into the local community.” Hamish has spent most of his life hill country farming around the Whanganui and Hunterville districts. “I was born and bred a farmer; spent three-quarters of my life in very remote hill country farm locations,” he said. Katrina takes care of the office work, health and safety, the house, and the couple’s blended family of four daughters and one son. Ballance Farm Environment Awards (BFEA) judges noted the robust health and safety policy, and promotion of staff training. The couple have made huge strides on the property in the two-and-a-half years they have been there. When Hamish took on the station manager position, the property was running 21,000 stock units. “It’s now 28,500 and we’re hoping to expand that to
Morikau Station manager Hamish Thompson and his wife Katrina
40,000 in the future, by leasing more underdeveloped Maori land.” The 60:40 sheep to cattle ratio has recently altered from 70:30.
Hamish said the property contains a range of land management units, which enables a multitude of farming enterprises to be carried out.
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MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES May 2018
23
The 60:40 sheep to cattle ratio has recently altered from 70:30
Ewes and early lambs are sold to CR Grace Taylor Preston whilst contracted lambs are sold to AFFCO
This year the station is running 12,500 ewes and 1,800 hoggets to the ram, as well as 1,700 dry hoggets. Ewes and early lambs are sold to CR Grace Taylor Preston. Contracted lambs are sold to AFFCO. A Charolais/Angus terminal bull is used over 930 breeding cows. For low birthweight, the 220 R1 Angus/Hereford heifers are mated with a Hereford bull. All weaners are retained to 18 months. The bull unit is carrying 400 bulls for 2018–2019. Hamish said 65% of all stock are finished on Morikau. Since Hamish took over as manager, more than $2.4 million has been spent on development and improvements. This includes $480,000 following the 2015 flood. A large eroding gully has been fenced off, with 600 poplar and
willow poles planted each year. Other improvements include: 30km of fencing with subdivision of waterways, riparian planting, yards, weighing facilities, holding paddocks, and water systems. Around 500ha of gorse land has also been sprayed. Manuka areas are being retired for regeneration and beekeepers have 500 hives on-site. “There’s effectively 100ha of wetland and fenced off gullies now, as well as 2,187ha of bush, that’s retired, some of those bush areas have large numbers of kiwi.” said Hamish. Pests and predators are managed with culling goats through Nga Whenua Rahui, and annual maintenance of bait stations for stoats and rats. This is in addition to Horizons Regional
Council’s possum control programme. Morikau Station receives an annual average rainfall of between 1,150mm– 1,450mm. The summers can be very hot and humid, sometimes reaching 40C. “We have very wet winters with snow to our hill country, lower country very warm, and winter has low sunshine hours with four hours a day, due to fog,” said Hamish. The climate creates animal health challenges, with exposure to high levels of facial eczema and a high worm burden. Dusty tracks have led to viral pneumonia, and the humidity levels cause fly strike. Short-term plans for Morikau include paying back debt and the cost of production. There is also focus on attention to detail with breeding and finishing stock. Community involvement on the station is an important tool to creating
local employment and commitment to ongoing training. This was another area that stood out to the BFEA judges. More environmental fencing of waterways and swamplands, along with riparian planting is also planned. Hamish would like to see the station become more sustainable and paying a better dividend to shareholders. He said long-term plans include being debt-free, but going forward out of cash surplus. “To leave the station in good stead for the future generations to carry on with.” Hamish and Katrina Thompson received the People in Agriculture Award, the Predator Free Farm Award, and the Horizons Regional Council Award for the integration of trees. “I am only a caretaker of the people’s land, what we put in is what we get back.” says Hamish.
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May 2018
MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES
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