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Community custodians needed
With fly-tipping a continuous problem at mobile recycling centres in the district’s rural villages, the Manawatū District Council is seeking community custodians.
The volunteer roles would suit people with a small amount of time up their sleeves each week and who care about the environment and their local community.
Villages with mobile recycling centres include Āpiti, Halcombe (excludes glass), Himatangi Beach, Kimbolton, Pohangina, Rongotea, Sanson and Tangimoana.
Custodians would be required to make regular visits to the mobile recycling centre in their village. Picking up fly-tipping is not expected and interacting or educating customers at mobile recycling centres is not required.
The roles are fundamental to the council being able to provide a clean, safe and quality mobile recycling centre for each community.
Each custodian would have close ties to the Manawatū District Council’s waste minimisation team to report any issues or required maintenance and also provide regular updates. The council would then address issues via its formal processes.
Fly-tipping is managed by the council’s compliance team who work to identify offenders. However, the Manawatū District Council will provide each custodian with council rubbish bags to use should they wish to pick up smaller items of rubbish to help care for the facility. Sometimes, recyclable items are blown out of the containers after being dropped off by a customer.
The council is also looking into the use of security cameras, along with other measures, to prevent fly-tipping in the worst hit locations. Feedback received from impacted communities is that nothing works better than community ownership and guardianship.
Volunteers for each village who are interested in joining the squad of mobile recycling centre waste custodians can contact the council’s waste minimisation team at infrastructure@mdc.govt.nz or phone 06 323 0000.
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Community custodians are needed to oversee mobile recycling centres in the district’s villages
Horizons increasing climate resilience in city
Improved river management assets are set to benefit Palmerston North residents living near the Mangaone Stream.
The primary goal of this project is to enhance bank edge protection and retaining structures along the stream. This will help to create more flood resilience in the area and keep communities safer during flood events.
Retaining walls along a section of the stream near Tremaine Avenue, currently made of stone-filled gabion baskets, will be replaced with secant pile walls.
Horizons Regional Council group manager catchment operations Dr Jon Roygard said this upgrade is important for improving the structural integrity and effectiveness of bank protection.
“Secant pile walls are a significant improvement over gabion baskets, offering enhanced stability and durability.”
He said this is essential for effective long-term riverbank management.
“Importantly, the new secant pile walls will be constructed behind the current gabion baskets, ensuring continuous bank protection throughout the project. This approach minimises the risk of exposure as the gabion baskets do not need to be removed until the new wall is complete.”
Construction commences this month, and will conclude around May 2024. The project will create some disruption in the area with the Mangaone Stream Share Pathway to be closed between Botanical Road and Tremaine Avenue for the duration of the work.
“We will take advantage of the pathway closure to also enhance the stopbanks along the pathway, particularly near where they adjoin Belvedere Crescent.”
Due to the closure of one lane of Seddon Street near Tremaine Avenue, traffic will not be able to access Tremaine Avenue from Seddon Street. A full closure of the same section of Seddon Street will also be required while machinery works on the stream bank in that area.
“We appreciate this will cause disruption for residents nearby and people who regularly travel through the area. However, the benefits of this work will create increased safety and resilience in the long term,” said Dr Roygard.
The work has been possible due to funding through the Covid-19 Response and Recovery Fund, administered by Kānoa — Regional Economic Development & Investment Unit. Horizons secured $26.9 million from this as part of Budget 2020 for climate resilience and flood protection projects in the Horizons region.
“The Mangaone Stream work is part of a suite of projects funded by Kānoa in the region, including work in Foxton, Rangitīkei, the Lower Manawatū Scheme and other areas of Palmerston North.
“This suite of projects, which Horizons contributed $9 million to is not only enhancing climate resilience, but also creating employment opportunities in our region, boosting our economy,” Dr Roygard said.
Work on enhancing bank edge protection and retaining structures along the Mangaone Stream will continue until May
Gearing up for world record attempt
by Denise Gunn
Three local shearers have been training since the end of March in the lead-up to a three-stand strong wool lamb shearing world record attempt next month.
Hunterville-based shearercontractor Shane Ratima will team up with two of his shearers, Jimmy Samuels and Akuhata Waihape from Marton, as they endeavour to break the current world record on Wednesday, December 18.
Ferndale Station, in the backblocks of Hunterville, is the chosen venue. The trio will select 2,100 of the best ewe lambs to shear on the day, allowing a few extras.
Currently, the three-stand strong wool lamb shearing record is 1,976.
Each shearer will have eight hours shearing ahead of him, starting at 7am and finishing at 5pm. Those eight hours will be split into two hour runs with half-anhour morning and afternoon tea breaks, and one hour for lunch. The training schedule is massive.
“This involves conditioning, mobility and strength training for six days a week
on top of shearing,” said Shane. “I’ve just finished a two-month stint in Western Australia. It was work all day, then go and train for an hour and a half at night.
“Monday, Wednesday and Friday are the longest sessions, with a conditioning session on the Saturday.”
He said strength training involves barbell squats, dumbbells and a lot of stability on strengthening his core.
“With lambs, you need a lot of lower body strength, and with ewes, you need more upper body strength. In between
strength and conditioning days is mobility to open up the thoracic spine and hips.
“My main aim is to get through the day as painlessly as possible.”
Shane’s father and grandfather were shearers and contractors.
“I learnt how to shear on Merinos over in Australia. I came back home and learned how to shear crossbreds over here.”
In 2005, Shane established Ratima Shearing, covering the Hunterville and surrounding districts.
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Akuhata and Jimmy shearing in Western Australia
From left: Local shearers Jimmy Samuels, Shane Ratima and Akuhata Waihape will attempt to break the current three-stand strong wool lamb shearing world record in December
“The crew travels within an hour for shearing. There’s a lot of sheep within that catchment in our local areas that keep us busy.”
He’s also the vice-president of the New Zealand Shearing Contractors Association executive committee.
“I’ve been on that committee for five years or more. They are a good group of people advocating for the industry.”
Shane is managing the organisation of the world record attempt, too. His partner Erin is taking care of sponsorship and Aku’s partner has taken on the role of secretary.
“On the day, we will have Russell Knight, who is a well-known shearing figure, both nationally and internationally.”
Russell will manage communications between shearers, wool handlers, shedhands and those working in the yards.
This world record attempt will be a first for Shane and Aku.
“Jimmy was involved in a three-stand crossbred record in Australia, but records didn’t go ahead due to wool weights,” said Shane.
The local community is supporting the three shearers through sponsorship and fundraising.
“It’s quite expensive to do this.”
With an estimated figure of around $30,000, funds raised will cover fees to the World Record Association, international and national judges’ expenses, and feeding the crew of around 50 people on the day.
“We’ve had a really good response. Kent Stembridge of Active Plus Physio in Marton is a major sponsor and will
also be my physio on the day. Honest Wolf, Rangitīkei Tyres from Marton and PGG Wrightson Real Estate in Feilding have also come on board in the top tier.
“There’s a whole host of others, too.”
Aku’s family in Tuatāpere also ran a large raffle to help with the fundraising efforts.
“We will have a livestream on the day, which will go global. The shed will be open for public viewing, and the Hunterville Home and School committee will hold a barbecue to purchase food and drink on-site. There will be more than 100
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Shearing has taken Jimmy to several countries around the world Photo credit: Ford Ranger New Zealand Rural Games
Last year, Jimmy won the Ford Ranger New Zealand Rural Games Men’s Speed Shearing Championships Photo credit: Ford Ranger New Zealand Rural Games
whānau, sponsors and supporters there on the day, too. It’s a real community vibe
when it comes to putting on an event in Hunterville,” said Shane.
Family, farming and racing
by Denise Gunn
In the seven years since purchasing their Fordell farm, professional jockey Lisa Allpress and her husband Karl, a racehorse trainer, have put in the hard yards to improve their property.
Their 530-acre Arawhata farm was originally part of Okirae Station, farmed by four generations of the Campion family. The former sheep and beef farm later became part of a dairy operation.
“It ran as part of a dairy farm and was intensively farmed. We’ve fenced to make smaller paddocks to make it more convenient for us,” said Lisa.
Initially, Karl and Lisa grazed dairy heifers while building up cattle numbers, through rearing calves.
“This is the first year without dairy heifers. We are now solely rearing calves and selling as yearlings,” said Lisa.
The couple aims to rear 200 beef calves this season to increase their numbers.
“We also have about 20 cows we breed from to build up our Hereford herd.”
Bulls are sourced from Mike Cranstone of Riverton Herefords in Fordell. “We’ve got about 100 ewes, too.”
Originally from Stratford, Lisa considered studying to become a veterinarian when she left school. That plan changed while riding trackwork as an 18-year-old on a working holiday in Japan.
“I spent a year in Japan and started riding track work when I returned to New
Zealand.” Lisa took up an apprenticeship as a jockey with racehorse trainer Kevin Gray and his son Stephen in Waverley.
During her four years as an apprentice, Lisa clocked up 100 winners.
“The Grays have been like a second family to Karl and I. Karl worked there for four years when he finished school.”
A move to Palmerston North followed, where Lisa freelanced for a year. She then
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Lisa riding Dark Destroyer in a Group One race at Hawke’s Bay
The couple rear beef calves to sell as yearlings
took up a contract in Singapore, becoming the first female jockey to win a Group One race there.
After a three-month contract in Japan in 2002, Lisa returned to New Zealand and married Karl. The couple initially settled in Matamata with Karl working in partnership with racehorse trainer John Sargeant.
“When we had our family we realised we needed more family support. So we moved to a property in Maxwell about 17 years ago,” said Lisa.
The couple’s two sons, Josh and Angus, help out on-farm whenever possible. The eldest is studying at Lincoln University, and the youngest is in Year 12 at school in Whanganui.
Lisa’s career has seen her race successfully in New Zealand and overseas, clocking up numerous milestones on the racetrack. In Saudi Arabia, Lisa made history as the first female jockey to win a race there. She is also the first female jockey in New Zealand to ride 1,000 winners across the finish line.
“I’ve had 1,948 career wins, but overseas had about 85 international wins between Singapore, Malaysia, Japan and Saudi Arabia. I really want to be the first woman that may ever ride 2,000 winners in New Zealand. I think the closest is on around 1,100.”
In 2021, Lisa’s success on the racetrack was recognised in the New Year Honours list when she was awarded
Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to the racing industry.
“It’s definitely a career I love and wouldn’t change.”
She said her love for horses is the key to success. “If you love riding and are passionate about it, the more you ride — the better you get. The better you ride — the better horses you get.”
A fall during a race at Riccarton in August has seen Lisa temporarily sidelined as she recovers from back surgery and concussion. The injury also prevented Lisa travelling to Japan where she was invited to attend the World All Star Jockey’s Series at Sapporo Racecourse.
She said that recovering from falls is one of the challenges jockeys face.
“The hardest thing is not being able to get back on. It’s a start of the healing process getting back on. I never feel completely better until I start riding.”
The Allpress’s farm is proving to play a large part in Lisa’s recovery.
“I love to farm, going for a walk and getting out in the garden.”
Lisa was hoping to get the all-clear to ride at home around the farm towards the end of October.
Karl and Lisa Allpress’s 540-acre farm in Fordell
The family’s canine companions ready to help out on-farm
Lisa’s love for horses is the key to her success
Where many dreams meet
by Amy Fifita
Scottish-born veterinarian Rory Dean has released his first book, Adventures of a Country Vet: true stories from the horse’s mouth, a collection of humourous and, sometimes, sad tales of his time in the profession.
At a young age, Rory wanted to be an author. After working on farms and reading James Herriot’s books during his teenage years, he realised a new dream and sought a career as a rural veterinarian.
“Many of the people, who I went to university with, knew they wanted to be a vet from childhood but that wasn’t me,” said Rory. “I was brought up and went to school in South West Scotland. My dad
Geoff provided me with the guidance that working hard pays off, and that is what got me through school, vet school and my career, so far. I used to have a little white van, and would drive around the farms milking cows and working with lambs. I was doing well at school, so becoming a vet seemed like a natural progression.
“Going to university at the Royal School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh was an amazing experience. A day after I
graduated, I went on a very fragile plane journey to New Zealand.
“Unsure if I wanted to continue with the veterinary profession, and having a real passion for agriculture, I worked on a dairy farm in the South Island for six months.”
At the end of the six months, Rory returned to the UK to work in farm animal practices in the South West of England, in Somerset and Devon. Having just a taste of New Zealand left him wanting more.
“The moment I stepped off the plane, I knew I had to go back, and spent just over a year in the South West of England before returning to New Zealand.
“When I returned, I went to Waimate in the South Island, before being offered a job in Northland, Ruawai. I have been here for the last five years and love the Kaipara, the community, the work and being involved in the Northern Wairoa Football Club.”
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Scrappy has been Rory’s faithful companion and accompanies him on farm visits: he says it helps keep him grounded and in the moment
After studying at the Royal School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh, Rory moved between the UK and New Zealand before settling in Kaipara
New Zealand offered a place for Rory to reflect and make his childhood dream of becoming an author come true. His book was recently published and is in stores now.
“I wanted to create something humorous, although some stories are sad because they show the less-than-perfect side of being a vet. They are hopefully interesting, and perhaps, eye-opening for people unsure of what being a rural vet entails. Writing the book and working with publishers was enjoyable, and I learned a lot, because I had no training or experience. Overall, it was an excellent learning journey.
“It was awesome from the start because I often undervalue myself, so getting the contract felt neat. It is amazing to think I have a book published, and for me, a highlight was remembering what I’ve been through.”
Rory is grateful for the people, and his two fox terriers, Scrappy and Alfie, who have supported him throughout his journey as a vet, author and New Zealander.
“Scrappy has been with me for the last six years, and he comes with me on my jobs. He keeps me grounded, and helps me stay in the moment, because when things are going well or terribly, I have to look after him.
“Melanie, my fiancée, has been an amazing support — she’s a patient woman. My parents, Geoff and Jackie, have visited me in New Zealand. It is difficult being so far apart, but they love visiting and can time it for their winter and can get some sun here.”
While Rory uplifts those who have been cornerstones in his life, he also takes time to give back to the community.
“I volunteer for the Rural Youth and Adult Literacy Trust as a community ambassador, and am donating some of the royalty revenue I receive personally to them. The trust provides support for isolated people with literacy challenges
across New Zealand and is always looking for volunteer coaches and support.”
From a boy with a dream to be an author to a man pursuing a rural veterinary career, Rory has found a place to call home in New Zealand. Since returning, he has upskilled in his career, become a published author and settled down with Scrappy, Alfie and his wife-to-be Melanie.
“Kaipara feels like home. I love spending time with Mel and Alfie and Scrappy, playing football for my beloved local Northern Wairoa FC, hunting, travelling, running, politics and learning languages — French and Spanish.”
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In his downtime, Rory loves spending time with his fiancée Melanie and two dogs, Alfie and Scrappy Rory has had Scrappy for six years, and added Alfie to the family about two years ago
by Denise Gunn
Sustainable animal bedding
Since its establishment in 2008, Pacific Mulching has expanded its services and coverage, earning the business a trusted reputation along the way.
From its Manawatu base, the Sitewise accredited business began operating in the lower and central North Island. Expansion of its services soon followed, along with coverage to become fully mobile throughout New Zealand.
Pacific Mulching is committed to excellence, focussing on sustainability and innovation, recycling wood waste into
saleable products. Business owner Neville Rodgers has an extensive knowledgeable background in the industry and a large selection of machinery available to get the job done.
“We turn waste wood into animal beddings, cleaning out, restocking and spreading composted material from barns and sheds,” he said.
Bulk quantities of animal bedding are available for supply and delivery to cover calf sheds, barns, feed pads and herd homes.
Land clearance and site preparation is another mainstay of the business. This work includes vegetation and tree removal, heavyduty stump chipping and mulching. The end result will leave the site ready for development and building.
Neville and his team also specialise in shelterbelt topping and tree deconstruction for problematic trees around infrastructure.
“We can also take care of stump grinding after shelterbelt removal,” he said.
Forestry residue and storm clean-up is a key service, too. This helps forestry owners reduce residue from logging operations and landings to avoid environmental impacts and weather events.
Pacific Mulching was awarded the landscape mulch supply contract as part of the Te Ahu a Turanga – Manawatu Tararau
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Highway. The highway is expected to be completed next year.
“This project involves supplying large volumes of landscape mulch on time.”
Neville said long-term plans for Pacific Mulching include biomass renewal energy via wood waste residues for biomass boilers.
“We can supply premium biomass boiler fuel sourced sustainably from local forestry residues. Our biomass fuel is an eco-friendly,
cost-effective alternative for boilers. This helps businesses reduce their carbon footprint while supporting renewable energy efforts in
For further information on the range of services and solutions available at Pacific Mulching, visit pacificmulching.nz or phone Neville on 021 079 6373, 0800 WOODCHIP, or email pacificmulchingltd@ gmail.com.
Pacific Mulching supplies a range of animal bedding for delivery and spreading in calf sheds, barns, feedpads and herd homes
New Zealand.”
Sheepdog trials bring town and country together
This year has seen a resurgence of competitors in the sheepdog trials held during several shows in the wider region.
Ninety dogs lined up to compete in oneday indoor sheep dog trials held during the Manawatū and West Coast A&P Show this month. The Wairarapa A&P Show in Carterton saw 84 dogs entered.
Wanganui Centre publicity officer Brenda O’Leary said it was the second year that show-ring sheepdog trials had been held in the Manfeild Stadium.
“While in their formative years, the Feilding event is proposing to hold a threeday stand-alone event in 2025. Details are yet to be worked out.”
throughout New Zealand that cart sheep to events as a sponsorship are simply the best, particularly in these hard economic times.”
Brenda was joined by sheepdog trial enthusiasts Teresa Newton, Donna McLean, Joleen Joslin, Rob Mather, Di Birch and Brian Dickie, who all put in time working the sheep for the week leading into the trial.
The day before the trials, Brenda, Donna and Rob put on a demonstration in the arena for the public.
“These A&P show-ring events can see a real coming together of rural and town communities”
Royal Canin dog food was a major sponsor of the Manawatū event.
“Their rep Liz Hamblyn was on-hand at the prize-giving. Liz provided some lovely light-hearted moments.”
The indoor sheepdog trials were judged by Wayne Falkner from Marton.
“Blair Rhodes very kindly provided the sheep, which were worked out at Westoe on Kakariki Road and carted to the show by Ryal Bush Transport. A really appreciated sponsorship,” said Brenda.
“Without sheep, there would be no sheepdog trials. Transport companies
“This was well received,” said Brenda.
Donna McLean with Sy won the open event, with Dave Shaw and his dog, Trump, in second place. Dave and Trump also won the open maiden.
The intermediate section saw Donna and Sy take another first placing, with Dave and Trump close behind.
Rex Pearson was successful with his dog, Duck, winning the maiden event. In second place was Di Birch with dog, Meg.
“These A&P show-ring events can see a real coming together of rural and town communities,” said Brenda.
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Good news for sore joints (Part one)
by John Arts, Abundant Health
I am writing this early on a Wednesday morning. Overnight, I have had feedback from clients that I am helping with osteoarthritis.
One reported real improvement with sore toes and his partner with much less knee pain.
Over the weekend, there was a client who had booked in hip replacement surgery. We put in place a temporary programme to make her more comfortable while she waited for surgery. She reported that most of the hip pain had gone and no longer needed daily painkillers. I have got to the stage that I am genuinely surprised that people cannot get noticeable improvements in joints affected by osteoarthritis.
I am often asked whether nutritional therapy can restore lost or damaged cartilage. My answer is that, in most cases, what is lost cannot be restored. However, we can certainly help retain current cartilage. The better question is whether we can do anything about pain and loss of mobility.
Most of the discomfort from osteoarthritis comes from inflammation. Cartilage has no nerves. We cannot feel cartilage loss. What we can feel is the inflammation generated by joint capsule immune cells
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My main initial goal is to reduce inflammation in the joint capsule. I have spoken to another client that reported 50% less knee swelling after only a couple of months. This translated to less pain and more mobility.
There is much we can achieve through diet. Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet underpins what we do through supplements. Initially, I like to add 1,600mg of highgrade chondroitin sulphate, 1,600mg of the latest non-shellfish glucosamine and 400mg of 100% water soluble curcumin extract. To this we add sufficient omega 3 to get 700–1000mg daily of EPA, the anti-inflammatory component in fish oils. We continue this for six weeks where we review progress.
John Arts (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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by Amy Fifita
Region-wide festivities
From markets to parades, Manawatū has many fun Christmas events to keep families and friends in the jubilant spirit.
There are events for people, young and old, to engage in the festivities next month. Starting with A Very Palmy Christmas Parade between 2pm and 3pm on Sunday, December 1, children and adults can experience the festive joy.
Adults can enjoy a glass of sparkling wine at Turnaround’s Christmas Bubbles
on Monday, December 2, from 5pm in Manchester Square in Feilding. The evening is a special treat thanking shoppers for their support and an opportunity to browse new stock and get styling tips.
On December 2 and 3, at 7pm, A Cathedral Christmas, at 197 Broadway Avenue in Palmerston North, community choir Unity Singers will perform an array of carols.
Tuesday, December 3 and Wednesday, December 4, from 3pm to 10pm offer attendees a shopping experience at the Magic of Christmas Night Market. Located at the Awapuni Racecourse, families can enjoy live entertainment and food, and there are more than 150 stallholders.
Next up is A Kiwi Cracker Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 7, at the Anglican Church Hall in Woodville. Starting at 7pm, locals can enjoy festive tunes presented by the Stand Up and Sing Choir and the Viking Choir, with guest performances from Mangatainoka School and Tōtara College.
On Sunday, December 8, from 10am to 4pm, families can experience the Feilding Christmas Carnival and Parade at Manchester Square. The parade is at 1.30pm.
For those with an ear for jazz and blues, A Jazzy Christmas is on Sunday, December 8, starting at 3pm at The Old Dairy Factory in Norsewood.
annually, families can have fun for just $2 a person.
Feilding’s Christmas Cave at 21 Stafford Street is open from December 8 until December 24, between 11am and 3pm. Put on by Feilding Oroua Rotary Club
The Upper Hutt Christmas Market is on from 11am on Monday, December 16 to 1pm on Tuesday, December 17, at Trentham Racecourse. It is another opportunity to purchase thoughtful gifts for your loved ones.
A happy memory for many adults, Christmas parades are great to enjoy with the family
Size of steer takes butcher by surprise
by Denise Gunn
A1 Meat Processors owner/operator Lee Cook got a huge surprise when he saw the size of a steer he was asked to process.
The six-year-old Hereford/ Friesian steer, weighing 1,225kg standing in the paddock, was raised on a lifestyle block in Longburn alongside a couple of Angus Lowlines.
Lee said he was told over the phone by the owners that they had a big steer.
“I went down there and was quite shocked when I saw him. I went back a week later and talked to the people again and was still quite shocked.
“He’s over six feet tall. I cannot explain how big he was.”
A large steer, recently processed by A1 Meat Processors, weighed 1,225kg standing in the paddock
Loading the steer was quite a mission.
“A guy across the road from where the steer came from helped us load up. It took two hours to get the steer on the truck as he got stuck in the loading ramp.”
Lee and his helpers had to pull the loading ramp apart to make it wider. They then chased one of the steer’s paddock mates up the ramp first.
“We then had another go and were able to get him in there. Then, we took the Angus Lowline off the truck and back in the paddock.”
After transporting the steer to AI Meat Processors on Lee’s Milson Line property near Palmerston North, the animal was placed in a front paddock to graze for a few weeks.
“All the traffic was slowing down to look at the steer.”
Lee has decades of all-round experience in the meat industry, working as a meat inspector and operating his own butcher shop. Growing up on his parents’ sheep, beef and deer farm in the central North Island also cultivated an interest in hunting and processing wild game.
The carcass weighed 856kg in the chiller and will be processed into a range of beef cuts.
“The heart weighed 3.95kg. It’s as big as a rugby ball.
“It’s the biggest steer I’ve processed in 22 years at A1 Meats.”
Lee is sending the skin to Napier for curing.
“I had a lot of respect for the animal.”
Korean teachers experience hands-on horticultural training
Whanganui’s Land Based Training (LBT) horticulture team hosted a contingent of Korean teachers this month, visiting Pīwaiwaka Farm and Halcombe botanist Gavin Scott.
Horticulture team members Vanessa Nicholson and Merryn Broderson were supported by LBT general manager Hamish Davidson and operations manager Bob Pearce. Throughout the visit, the Korean teachers were provided with a practical insight into LBT’s horticulture courses.
Travelling under the TERRAMI (Korea Rural and Territorial Development Institute) Overseas Agriculture Training Project, the group experienced hands-on training to share with their own students on returning to Korea. The Agricultural High School Teachers Training in New Zealand programme was launched to offer an understanding of New Zealand’s horticulture and farming practices.
While the contingent visited Gavin Scott’s native tree nursery on his Halcombe property, Vanessa and Merryn covered propagation of some native plant material and seed collected on-site. They also explained the importance of ecosourced native seed.
Gavin led a major restoration project at Kitchener Park in 1991, and has worked intensively on saving rare native plant species for 29 years. He eco-sources and grows a lot of different species.
“Protecting the local gene pool is important with natives as they are
acclimatised to the local growing conditions,” said Merryn.
On the group’s arrival at Pīwaiwaka Farm, the flourishing waterways coordinator Cameron Ryan conducted a tour of the property. The 72ha regenerative farm is situated at Papaiti, up the Whanganui River.
“Pīwaiwaka Farm runs a native plant nursery where they eco-source native seed and grow plants to order for waterway, riparian, coastal and forest restoration,” said Merryn.
“They also have a substantial orchard and Maara Kai where food crops are grown under the Koha Kai initiative. Fruit and vegetables are donated to those in need in the Whanganui community.”
Pīwaiwaka Farm is also a training base and runs various workshops on native plant propagation and growing kai and wellbeing retreats.
“Thanks to our partners, Gavin Scott Nursery and Pīwaiwaka Farm, for helping us host our visitors. It was a great opportunity to showcase our LBT horticulture courses,” said Merryn.
“Land Based Training runs NZQAaccredited courses in horticulture, sustainable production practices, agriculture and a number of short courses in the Whanganui, Manawatū
and Taranaki regions. Recruiting for these courses will take place in January 2025.”
TERRAMI group director Kyungchan Lee said he was deeply impressed by the project to regenerate pastures into forests, integrating job training with environmental education.
“We also learned how New Zealand’s native plants connect to Māori food, medicine, architecture and folklore. This regeneration project is truly a cultural preservation effort, revitalising New Zealand’s history and identity.
“Gavin and tour guide at Pīwaiwaka Farm helped us connect with nature.
Despite the rain, our group dug into the black soil, getting our hands dirty and creating a tangible link to the land,” he said.
The group found each step of this experience highlighted its role as environmental education, a youth healing programme and a local regeneration project.
“It was a meaningful time that inspired us to reflect on ways we could engage agricultural high school students in Korea and explore important questions upon our return,” said Kyungchan Lee.
Doug Rowan Riana Smith Kirsty Beatson
The Korean teachers during their visit to botanist Gavin Scott’s native tree nursery in Halcombe
Best protection adds longevity to vehicles
by Denise Gunn
Protection and prevention against rust in vehicles, machinery and trailers is the key to extending the life of your investment.
Kev and Carlene Redshaw own and operate Timeless Auto Restorations from their Kairanga base. With a lifelong passion for restoring and preserving vehicles, Kev knows the importance of keeping them in tip-top condition.
He said rust prevention and protection treatment should be undertaken as soon as possible.
“Get your farm vehicles, utes, boats and trailers done from day one,” said Kev. “Anything from new or as close as you can, will gain longevity. Prevention is the key.”
Kev is a lower North Island licensed applicator for both SealX and CorrosionX, and he stands by these products. CorrosionX is a military-specified product, which drives out moisture and stops rust in its tracks. SealX provides protection from damaging UV and contaminants.
“They are top-of-the-line products.”
As rust is an ongoing issue in New Zealand, particularly in coastal locations, Kevin said these products save time and money.
reach areas in vehicles are covered.
“Rust treatment will cost $350 for a side-by-side, $550 for ute and $200 for a four-by-four. It’s the best protection for your vehicles, machinery and trailers.”
In the 15 years since Kev took on the role as lower North Island area applicator for SealX, he has treated numerous motorhomes. He said in that time, he’s seen how well the product works.
the life of vehicles, trailers and machinery
“Six months after treatment, tractors still look brand new, and the mud just runs off them.”
The addition of a purpose-built workshop on the Redshaw’s property provides Kev with four-post and two-post hoists, as well as a single bay for motorhomes.
“I put the vehicles on a hoist, then spray all through the chassis.”
Kev said using a range of differentsized nozzles ensures even the hardest to Rust
“It’s like putting sunblock on your motorhome. It prevents UV damage. Polishing the car lasts a couple of months but SealX will last two years.”
Feedback from customers backs this up with many commenting that their motorhomes still look brand new.
“Customers know I’ll do 110% all the time. I never cut corners. I get a lot of pride when a motorhome comes in and then goes out looking brand new.”
Contact Timeless Auto Restorations on 027 443 6458 or email kev.carlene@xtra.co.nz.
BY PROFESSIONALS IN YOUR COMMUNITY NOT “EXPERTS” ONLINE
Independence with style and comfort
by Denise Gunn
EV Bikes has grown to become the biggest trike dealer in New Zealand.
A couple of trips to China led Brendan Dorn to establish his business on the outskirts of Palmerston North. After laying the foundations for EV Bikes in 2018, the family-run business now sells EV bikes, scooters and mobility trikes throughout New Zealand.
“We went to China in 2018, and saw a big difference in China’s progression from thousands of pushbikes to more electric bikes and vehicles,” said Brendon.
Through seeing an opportunity and meeting manufacturers, Brendon chose to import TailG bikes to New Zealand. TailG is one of the top three manufacturers in China.
The recent addition of a new warehouse and showroom at the family’s business base in Kairanga-Bunnythorpe Road provides more space for a larger variety of models to be stocked.
E-bikes range from two-seater family to professional commuter models. The wide selection of electric mobility models available includes the TM7, which has a canopy.
“Our two most popular bikes are the TM6 and the little foldable TS3, which can fit into a car boot and can be taken on an aeroplane.
“Our mobility trikes are extremely popular because they appeal to people who want to look good and have more mobility than the usual mobility scooter. We want to be a onestop-shop for all trike needs in the future.
“None of our vehicles require a licence. A mobility scooter will travel along at 12 kilometres an hour. You can travel up to 30 kilometres an hour without needing a licence.”
Brendon and his parents attend a large number of shows and events around New Zealand to showcase their EV bikes, trikes and scooters.
“We are meeting amazing people as we travel around New Zealand.”
Listening to the success stories from happy customers is a rewarding part of the business.
“We like to see happy smiles everywhere and helping to keep people’s independence. People put their dogs on the trailers on the back of the bikes, too.”
EV Bikes has expanded, and now has outlets in Auckland, Paraparaumu and Whangarei.
“We plan to continue growing the business and advancing on our current range. We have a golfing accessory now and a trailer accessory for the trikes. Covers are also coming.
“We have something suitable for everyone,” said Brendon.
Visit evbikes.co.nz or phone 0800 222 249 for further information.
With outlets in Palmerston North, Auckland, Paraparaumu and Whangarei, EV Bikes has grown to become the largest trike dealer in the New Zealand
by Paul Campbell
Festive stress or family fun?
Christmas means many things to many people and, in this modern world, the chances are many would-be celebrants will find themselves at work.
The writer recalls very few Christmas holidays as a journalist rostered on a shift because news does not stop, and the same applies for all those service jobs from medicine to policing, defence, fire and many more occupations.
Even farmers might need added support as commodity prices and government regulations cause a lack of sleep, along with an unhelpful bank manager.
The holiday season might be a time for feet up, present opening, family gatherings and spending time with loved ones. However, it is not all beer and skittles. Unfortunately, Christmas can also cause stress and depression for some people and even families in poor economic times.
Research proves, in fact, Christmas is considered one of the six most-stressful life events, along with divorce, moving house and changing jobs. This year, after the Covid-19 upheaval, natural disasters, rising inflation and dour predictions for the economy, you may be struggling to embrace the season of joy.
There are various factors that can cause stress. You may feel tense because you are worried about finances, concerned about relationships, or just feel exhausted after working long hours to get things finished before the holidays.
Worrying about the financial cost of buying Christmas presents, combined with the gloomy predictions about the economy, getting presents organised in time and feeling pressure to celebrate, even though you may have fractious relationships with family members.
The rising cost of living coupled with having less money to spend, while seeing an abundance of goods on display in shops, can trigger stress. Finding ways to cut back and better manage finances during the period can help you feel less stressed.
Christmas can also have a positive impact on your mental health. Keeping a focus on the positives, sharing social connection, eating well and relaxing can all bring a sense of wellbeing.
Consider researching ways to add new meaning to Christmas or create new family traditions. In general, be kind to yourself and others when planning what you will do, and consider changing your expectations of the season to remove stress, while aiming for a mentally healthy festive break.
by Andy Bryenton
Yule be right when tree’s company
There’s plenty of work to do getting trees pruned and hedges trimmed as summer and the holiday season approach, but one particular tree is on a lot of minds for the festive season; the one that Santa leaves presents under.
If you’re a farming family, you’re probably never short of choice when it comes to a Christmas tree. Odds are, your dad had his eyes on a suitable self-seeded pine somewhere about the property long before Snoopy’s Christmas first played on the radio each year.
You might have already scoped out a suitable specimen for 2024: but why do we bring a pine tree indoors in any case? What’s the origin of this odd little holiday ritual?
It all goes back to the ancient Germans, people who shared a lot of the same religious folklore as the Norse, including wintertime feasts in honour of Odin, father of Thor. Coincidentally, he was often
Phillip Cockery OWNER
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depicted as a long-bearded old man in fur-trimmed robes, who travelled through the snow in midwinter giving gifts to the faithful.
One of the rituals of these ancient Germanic people, in pre-Christian times, was to decorate a sacred tree with holly, ivy and icons representing supernatural beings.
Legend has it that Saint Boniface travelled to northern Germany in 723 AD, and arrived in time for Christmas, which happened to be about the same time as the pagan Yule feast. In the legend, the saint chops down the pagan tree and converts the revellers with the gospel of the nativity in Bethlehem.
Christmas tree is an accepted tradition today, but it comes to us through a winding path of historical coincidences
His followers were very smart. They incorporated the date of December 25 and a special tree into Christian observances from then on. By the 1300s, we have records about evergreen trees brought inside German churches and decorated with baubles. These represented the tree of knowledge in the story of Adam and Eve, and the baubles were painted red and green like apples.
In this way, an echo of Odin’s tree lived on. Here’s another. His hammer-wielding son, Thor, popularised in film series The Avengers, was known as Donnar to the
Germans, and lent his name to one of Santa’s reindeer.
Queen Charlotte, wife of King George III, brought the tradition to England, but it was the Victorian love affair with Christmas, and the huge yuletide trees of Victoria and Albert, which made the festive pine a modern fixture. The fake tree has a long history, too. Goose feathers painted green were used to make artificial trees in the 1880s, while in the US, in the 1930s, a Chicago toilet brush manufacturer used excess stock to make the first fake-bristle tree.
The
All hands on deck
by Andy Bryenton
In the days of tall ships and the majesty of sail, a lot of time
same care should apply to the deck of your house.
Thankfully, when it comes to revitalising the one that’s outside your ranchslider, there are power tools and crafty products available, that those old-time sailors would have given a treasure map for.
Many decks can be given a spruce up with a quick gentle wash-down and treatment with a mould remover, then a cover-up with rejuvenating oil. It’s important to know what kind of wood your deck is made of before you get started, as some can’t take the impact of a powerful water blaster, and certain oils and finishes work best with specific timbers. For the right products, talk to your local paint specialists or hardware store.
For decks in need of a serious restoration, it’s best to get back to basics, by taking off the damaged outer layers and exposing richly textured, fresh new wood. That means sanding, and it’s usually best to hire a drum sander and deck edge finishing sander than to buy new, unless your deck area is truly vast.
The good weather will be your mate for this job, as it’s best to sand and re-oil your deck under sunny skies. Start by giving the deck a good clean, and getting leaves, dirt and grit out from between the boards. Then, once the deck is dry, inspect the planks for cracking and warping, replacing
as necessary. Tighten down all the screws, because the sandpaper you are about to use can snag on these and rip, causing major headaches.
There are three stages of sandpaper grit, the level of coarseness, which you should work down through to get the perfect finish. Start with rugged 80 grit, working diagonal to the boards rather than straight up and down or side to side, a pro tip to make sure you get a smooth finish. Next, switch it out to 100 grit, and
work down the boards lengthways. Finally, go back over the whole surface with fine 120 grit paper on the sander, once again, working end-to-end of the boards. The edging or finishing sander is useful here at the end of the task to clear up patches close to your doors and window joinery. Oil goes on last, without skimping on
volume, as you want a good even coat all over that will protect the deck for years to come. Once again, your local paint experts will know just the right one to suit your timber.
A perfect deck is a source of considerable pride, and a great spot to entertain your mates during summer
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by Andy Bryenton
Rural vets swell the ranks
offset their student loans and costs by working in the
Twenty-eight rural areas will benefit directly from the placement of the veterinary medicine graduates, who will each receive $55,000 over a five-year tenure, working with productive livestock and farm dogs. It’s a way of filling a gap in the market, which has been painfully apparent for many farmers, especially since the Covid-19 lockdowns changed the work immigration landscape.
“The government is committed to enhancing primary sector productivity and delivering direct benefits to farmers and rural communities,” said Agriculture Minister Todd McClay.
“Supporting 35 new vets to work in 28 rural areas across New Zealand strengthens on-theground support for our hardworking farmers and producers.”
His associate minister Andrew Hoggard agreed. Both ministers are committed to growing the scheme further in years to come, setting a framework for a more easy-to-access veterinary system in places like rural Kaipara.
“Incentivising vets to practise in rural regions addresses the rural vet shortage
is critical to
productivity,” says Mr Hoggard.
“Upholding the highest standards of animal care is fundamental to our agriculture sector’s success and reputation. This programme ensures farmers have access to the best possible animal care.”
knit, supportive communities while gaining diverse animal care experience.”
The success in uptake for this placement scheme has seen this issue of rural animal health spill over into debate over human health as well. With shortages in many areas of the medical profession causing issues, there have been suggestions that the model, which has proven itself fit for purpose in this year’s vet intake, should form the basis for a similar scheme for practitioners of human medicine.
“Vets are vital to rural economies,” Mr McClay said. “With this scheme, we’re not only bringing essential skills to rural areas but also helping young vets pay down their student loans, while serving communities that rely on healthy, productive animals.
“Feedback from previous recipients highlights the rewards of working in close-
A one-year rural placement programme has proven successful for graduate doctors out of Otago Medical School, and in 2023, the health department approved funding for even more placements, including some from Auckland’s medical school to Northland.
“The university’s figures suggest that rural medical immersion programme graduates are about five times more likely to become rural doctors than the rest of their medical class,” said Otago University associate dean of health, Professor Garry Nixon.
while ensuring livestock health, which
boosting primary sector
Minister of Agriculture Todd McClay, speaking to the public at the Dargaville Community Hall
