Manawatu Farming Lifestyles, September 2017 by Integrity Community Media

Manawatu

FARMING Lifestyles

September 2017 Edition

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Investment will optimise primary sector

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MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

Teens dig in for water quality

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Students from Palmerston North Boys’ and Girls’ High Schools joined Horizons Regional Council freshwater staff for a planting day near Tokomaru recently.

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The day was organised by New Zealand Young Farmers who run Teen Ag clubs through high schools to engage students interested in the primary industries. Horizons freshwater advisor Catherine McManus said she got involved when a local landowner, who has a connection to New Zealand Young Farmers, was a recent recipient of one of Horizons’ freshwater grants. “As a result of the grant the landowner received funding assistance to plant waterways on his farm. He had 750 plants to go in and saw it as a perfect opportunity to invite the Teen Ag groups out to his farm to help and do some hands-on learning.” Ms McManus said the day started with a session about how riparian margins contribute to improving water quality and what ecosystems they support. “One of the aims of Teen Ag is to help students gain knowledge about the primary industries and upskill. So we taught them that riparian margins can essentially act as kidneys for the earth by filtering phosphorus and sediment

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before they enter waterways, and the correct way to plant natives.” Taranaki-Manawatu territory manager for Teen Ag, Megan Bates, said the Year 9-13 students are 20 of the 2,000 members nationwide. “These students are part of a school club that meets regularly to listen to industry guest speakers, go on field trips, attend leadership courses and camps, and up-skilling workshops. It was great that there was the opportunity of this planting day to get the students out on a farm to learn and contribute to improving water quality.” Boys’ High student Leighton Edwards said he now knows why riparian margins are important. “They help improve the standards of our waterways by reducing sediment and encouraging wildlife in and around the water.” There are 15 Teen Ag clubs running in the Taranaki-Manawatu New Zealand Young Farmer region. More information about Horizons freshwater grants is available on free phone 0508 800 800.

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Investment will optimise primary sector

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The payback for food production, export earnings and the environment from turbo-charging a fund for farming technology and practice will be many times the investment according to Federated Farmers. “The announcement from the Government that it will lift investment in the Sustainable Farming Fund from $7 million to $20 million, working with the sector, is a far more effective and useful approach than the tax and punish policies of some other parties,” said Federated Farmers science spokesperson Guy Wigley. Primary Industries minister Nathan Guy announced a cross-sector panel will oversee what will be renamed The Future Farming Fund, driving advances in farming technology and practices while further reducing farming’s environmental footprint. Since its launch 17 years ago, the Sustainable Farming Fund and leveraged sector support has made it possible for more than 1,000 projects to lift the performance and sustainability of primary producers. “This kind of research is what keeps us at the forefront of farming technology and ensures we remain among the most efficient producers of food on the planet,” Mr Guy said. One of the ongoing projects — a smart irrigation study in Canterbury — involves Federated Farmers as a lead organisation. “It’s about quantifying the relationship between irrigation over

time, the accumulation of soil carbon and changes in soil water holding capacity, with spin-offs for knowledge on groundwater recharge and nutrient leaching. “The project is typical of environmental gains we can make when we improve our knowledge of technology and natural systems.” The SFF invests in applied research and projects led by farmers, growers, or foresters. Projects that meet the criteria should deliver economic, environmental and social benefits to New Zealand. The SFF funds ‘communities of interest’ to do applied research and extension projects that tackle a shared problem or develop a new opportunity. Applicants can apply for up to $200,000 a year for a maximum of three years. The maximum total grant available is $600,000. Projects require a non-government funding contribution of at least 20 per cent. Most successful projects are able to leverage a high proportion of other funding or in-kind support to complement the SFF grant.

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MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

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four. Michael’s agricultural career began when he took up an assistant herd manager position on the Weatherston family’s south Wairarapa dairy farm, milking 2,000 cows. He then headed to Australia for further experience, working as a ringer on a 60,000 head of cattle property in the Northern Territory. Michael also worked as a senior farm assistant for Taratahi in Egmont Village and Masterton, building his knowledge and experience in the dairy industry. For the next couple of seasons, Michael worked as assistant manager on Ian and Sophie Honeyfield’s farm near Patea, milking 200 Friesian-cross cows. While working on this farm, Michael won the 2015 Taranaki Dairy Trainee of the Year award. Two years ago, he moved to the Horowhenua to work as 2IC on a dairy farm near Levin. “I then scored my first manager’s job in Kimbolton for McDougall Agriculture who I have been with since the farm was bought in March 2016,” said Michael. The 310 hectare farm, with a platform of 130 hectares, is owned by Peter, Lex, Ben and Gemma McDougall. Michael began contract milking a herd of 330 Friesian and Friesian cross cows on the farm this season. In this past season all grass silage was grown on the farm, along with five hectares in summer turnips, 10 hectares of chickory and 25 hectares of fodder beet. Michael said this allows milking through until the end of June and to winter about 900 dry cows from two farms. “We achieved our target of 400kgMS per cow which was good for first season

and hope to do similar this 2017/18 season. I want to make this season a good one as first year contract milking,” he said. “I enjoy working alongside some great people and producing a good product which is used in so many ways,” he said. Keen to progress up the dairy industry career ladder, Michael is always looking for new challenges and progression through the industry. As a Young Farmers Club member for several years, Michael joined the Marton branch when he moved to the Manawatu. He is now vice-chairman. “I competed this year in the Young Farmers competition, in the Taranaki Open, making it through to the regional,” he said. Michael enjoyed the experience and learnt some new skills. “Young Farmers is a pretty good way to meet new like-minded people, upskill yourself and provide a reason to get offfarm and relax a bit.” Outside of dairy farming, Michael is involved in the local community as a member of the Kimbolton Volunteer Fire Brigade. A few years ago he also took up beekeeping and is slowly increasing hive numbers. Michael is keen on travelling too, spending time in Australia, England and Canada. With a long-term plan to be successful in running a larger scale dairy operation as a contract milker, Michael has set a six-year goal of 50/50 sharemilking or an equity partnership. He is also aiming for farm ownership with 400 cows. “I enjoy working on the land, the cows, and improving production with the cows and farm.”

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SEPTEMBER 2017

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

The miniature BY ANN MORGAN Mini Ha Ha Horse Haven is a rescue and rehabilitation centre run by Jennifer and Lindsay Heperi for mini horses from across New Zealand, specialising in rehabilitating laminitis and grass-affected miniature horses.

“W

e care for minis, Shetlands and small ponies. We have two donkeys at present amongst our family of 21 fur kids,” says Jen. “We came about creating The Haven after being asked to help some wee minis that needed care. The owners didn’t realise that they are different to big horses and we learnt about laminitis when we took in a rescue mare with a one-day-old foal and it was a big learning curve. Jenny Patterson from Calm Healthy Horses is Jen’s mentor. “Jenny has taught me so much and supports us with her amazing nutritional products. We also have regular volunteers including a home schooling family, and a photographer.

“Five years down the track we have a special feeding programme. Some horses arrive and can hardly walk. Laminitis is like walking on crushed glass. “Laminitis has become a big problem across the country especially with fast growing rye and clover grass. These are high in potassium and sugars and so are muesli and commercial feeds. Many owners don’t add salt and this can contribute to a laminitis attack when lush green grass is added into the mix. This can make a horse become grass affected.” Jen says minis are often labelled little brats and are known for behavior problems due to being treated like large dogs. “This gives a completely wrong impression of how awesome

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they are. If you don’t understand about potassium and sugars in the grasses, and metabolic syndrome, you are quietly killing them.” Horses get Equine Metabolic Syndrome if they are fed mostly grass. Warning signs include a big thick hard cresty neck and fat lump pads on their body. “Signs of a grass affected horse include twitching and not standing nicely when you put the bridle and gear on.” The couple built three ‘paradise tracks’, special yards with untreated post peelings so the animals walk on a soft surface, carpeted shelter huts, and they have macrocarpas to get shade. “We have rehabilitated more than 30 laminitics in three years. They get their feet soaked in epsom salts and are given magnetic pulse blanket treatments. The nutritional programme involves adding salt, Grazezy, S.O.S and Premium Minerals, and hay is soaked and has no clover or rye in it. “They start on the painkiller Bute, and then are weaned onto a natural pain remedy made specially by Jill Shires and it takes two to four days to see a slight improvement followed by more improvement each day. Chronically affected horses take up to five weeks to become comfortable. At two weeks a horse may lightly trot and by week four they can canter again. “We build up their trust and they have the run of seven acres and come and go as they please. “Rescuing and retraining is easy. Rehoming is difficult. We are extremely protective and ensure those we do let foster know exactly how to care for them.

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Mini Ha Ha Horse Haven have rehabilitated more than 30 horses with laminitis in three years “We recently became a charitable trust after five years of funding ourselves with help from many kind folk sponsoring us. Now we can apply for other sponsorship and grants.” The cost to care for one horse is more than $2,500 per year, or $20-25 a week to keep a mini in the lifestyle they deserve. “We have people nationwide rescuing horses from vulnerable situations. We are known in United States, United Kingdom and Australia with others wanting help. I work full time and we couldn’t achieve what we do without our amazing supporters. “Our volunteer photographer Tracey Agnew comes and puts every animal’s photograph on our facebook page every Sunday night so people can see how their horse is doing.

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“Mini horses should always be in pairs, not company for a big horse. They need the dentist to file their teeth because they keep growing and the animal cannot eat. Feet need to be trimmed regularly and they need good quality hay. “We love giving horses that are in so much pain their life back. The biggest reward is seeing them run around the tracks, playing, galloping and chasing. I often cry because we saw them start out crippled. We don’t know what goes on behind the hidden hedges, but quality hay warms their bellies and good shelter keeps them out of the wind and rain. “They are what they eat so therefore they are what we feed them.” Check out ‘Mini Ha Ha Horse Haven’ on Facebook.

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SEPTEMBER 2017

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

by Denise Gunn Since converting to an A4 Astronaut robotic milking system just over a year ago, herd-owning sharemilkers Greg and Amy Gemmell have found it has added additional flexibility to their day, more time with their three young sons and the cows are thriving.

my’s parents Brian and Margaret Schnell are the farm’s owners, purchasing the Bunnythorpe property 33 years ago. With thoughts turning to converting the old herringbone milking shed in 2015, Brian visited an organic farm with robotic milkers, just south of Auckland. He was impressed with how laid-back and healthy the cows and farmers were with the system. “We also visited a few farms in the Waikato with Lely robots before making our decision,” said Amy. “Dad had long ago given up milking in the cowshed, however Greg has

been milking for 25 years, standing on concrete and being stuck in that 5am and 3pm milking time. “So we thought if we were going to change, let’s look at a system that gives us more flexibility, as well as a healthier option for both farmer and cow.” The Gemmell’s found the conversion to robotics easier than they thought and credit assistance and planning given by Lely Centre Waikato, Lely Centre Manawatu, and Steve Bromley and his team from Bromley’s Dairy and Pumps in Feilding. As a retrofit, the original shed was kept. Amy and Greg Gemmell found the conversion to robotics easier than they thought it would be

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The Gemmell’s herd of 220 Friesian cows, in a split-calving system, adapted well to the robots. As each cow calved, Greg and Amy trained her to become accustomed to the new system. “Once they found the food in the robot, which

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MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2017

come in for milking at her own leisure.” The cows come in for milking when they choose, more than twice a day. If they come in earlier than their milking window allows, they are diverted away from the robots. “They soon learn there is no point coming back too often.” Each cow wears a transponder around her neck which provides a vast array of information including weight, temperature, conductivity each quarter, somatic cell count, time of milking, litres produced, optimum insemination time, and an indication to drying off. There’s also an app that beeps when a cow is on heat or under stress at calving time. As each cow walks in for milking, the transponder also sends information to the robot on where to place the cups. When milking is completed, the teats are sprayed, the robot arm moves away and the cow then heads towards a whirly brush in the yard for a back scratch afterwards. There are no longer 5am set milking times and on-farm tasks or off-farm activities don’t have to revolve around getting back for the afternoon milking. If anything goes wrong at the cowshed, the Gemmell’s receive a call to their cellphone. “A phone call is rare now as we have learnt what needs to be attended to regularly and everything has fallen into place and works well,” said Amy. “We are also able to gain the benefits of

photo by S Buchanan

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Biggest Red Trev enjoying the whirly brush

When milking is completed, the cows head towards a whirly brush

winter milking and split calving without the constant 365 days of physically milking the cows.” Amy said the cows have worked out when the gate is going to change, three times over 24 hours, which directs them to a fresh paddock. With no motorbikes or backing gates behind them, the cows can take their own time to walk up the race. A few years ago, after reading an article by David Law of Forward Farming about slurry bugs in the effluent pond, Brian invited him to visit their farm. David made some assessments on the ponds and sampled the soil, finding

HI VIS OILSKIN VEST SECONDS

some imbalance. “The soil, grass, health of the cows, effluent pond all work hand-in-hand,” said Greg, Applications of urea were greatly reduced and now not used at all. Instead, a biological fertiliser is applied. “The slurry bugs in the effluent pond have seen a much increased rate of activity in the ponds and liquefied rather than crusted,” said Greg. “This liquid we are able to irrigate on to the paddocks through the pods. “We don’t use any PKE.” The Gemmell’s have seen the herd’s health improve with much lower penicillin needs.

“The medicine usage and costs have more than halved. Large clover has begun to appear again but there have been no problems with bloating. The huge savings in vet bills have been an obvious benefit. “We think the three changes we have made; the introduction of the kinder robotic system, the biological fertiliser system, as well as minerals that the cows are receiving daily through the food has been a great combination.” The Gemmell’s welcome tour groups and the farm’s activities can be followed on Facebook at Robotic Dairy Farm Manawatu.

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MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

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MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2017

ADVERTORIAL

The scourge of calves Few calf rearers can boast a season when they are not challenged with a bout of calf scours. These are most commonly triggered because of (a) nutritional upsets caused by irregular or inconsistent feeding practises, starvation and or overfeeding, (b) stress due to transport or change of diet, (c) improperly mixed or poor-quality milk powder, or (d) insufficient or poorquality colostrum compromising the immune system. If detected and treated early with electrolyte solutions the normal acidbalance of fluids and minerals can be restored before secondary bacterial or viral infections occur. Early recognition and treatment is crucial for a return to a healthy calf. Healthy calves are hungry, active, and curious. Calves with scours are likely to be more lethargic and inactive, have a loss of appetite or be isolated and uncurious about environment and activities. Use the tent test to determine skin elasticity and level of dehydration. If a calf’s nose and mouth appear dry or the eyes appear sunken, then it may be suffering from serious dehydration. Sick calves will also have abnormal body temperature. Nutritional scours will probably be very liquid and white. Scours associated with Rota virus will be brown and watery. Scours caused by parasites are more likely to have blood in the manure. Prompt treatment, including replacing

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lost fluids and electrolytes provides the best chance of quick recovery and avoiding a critical condition. Scours can be contagious. Properly cleaning and sanitising equipment used for feeding can prevent spreading of infectious bacteria, viruses, and parasites to other animals. Always feed sick calves after feeding healthy ones to reduce the chance of contamination. A calf that has a loose white stool, but is eating and drinking normally as well

as romping around like a normal healthy calf may not need treatment. BIOCALF™ PLUS a high energy oral electrolyte treatment includes nonantibiotics BIO-Mos™ and ALL-LAC®, to restore natural intestinal flora, and gelling agent gaur gum, to slow fluid loss allowing increased absorption of water. Get your supplies of BIOCALF™ PLUS from Wanganui Farm Supplies Wanganui, W. Amey & Co Rongotea and Turton Farm supplies Dannevirke, Waipukurau and Masterton.

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• 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 • Follow up re-establishment and forest management advice

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SEPTEMBER 2017

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

SPOTLIGHT ON

PALMERSTON NORTH

ADVERTORIAL

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natural ability to heal. Benefits include pain management, as deep relaxation allows the body to recover from stress, and pain is relieved. Blood flow is stimulated through all the tissues and natural endorphins are released. It just feels good. Floatation therapy is very effective at lowering the stress hormone cortisol, which causes anxiety and contributes to weight gain. The pod offers such a soothing experience that many floaters fall asleep — this is completely normal. Floating has also been shown to produce spontaneous reduction in, or the elimination of habits such as smoking. Stress is replaced with an overall sense

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MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2017

SPOTLIGHT ON

PALMERSTON NORTH

Youthful Palmerston North

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The city of Palmerston North is often referred to as a youthful and dynamic city and is known to offer the sophistication and diversity of a major city whilst being surrounded by an array of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Palmerston North is well known for its high calibre educational institutions. Prominent heritage collections, art galleries and urban street art go hand in hand with an array of cafes and dining options that take your taste buds on a tour of the world. There are also outdoor sculptures highlighting the talent of many artists in the area. Te Marae o Hine is the Maori name for ‘The Square’ — 17 acres of open space at the centre of Palmerston North. The cultural heart of the city, Te Manawa, thrives on discovery and has been an inspiring experience for people from all walks of life for more than 40 years. Te Manawa is more than a museum and a gallery — it is where concepts and communities come together through an engaging programme of exhibitions and events. Displaying an extensive collection of taonga (treasures), Te Manawa offers a unique opportunity to experience and participate in, the stories of the past, present and future. If you are looking to entertain children, they can get hands-on in the

learning discovery spaces and meet the mysterious cave weta, or view native fish in Te Awa — the river. The art gallery hosts a wealth of creative works in its ever-changing spaces. Te Manawa plays host to community events and, in collaboration with Centrepoint Theatre, houses ‘The Darkroom’ — an exciting space for rising playwrights, musicians and experimental productions. The New Zealand Rugby Museum contains New Zealand’s biggest and most comprehensive collection of rugby memorabilia and records, including some of the world’s rarest rugby artefacts. Flip City believes in promoting selfworth, personal growth and innovation and they will help you achieve your trampoline potential. Housed in a purpose driven 973 m2 industrial building, trampolines are interconnected from the floor to the walls. This idea came to fruition to take New Zealand trampoline parks to the next level. It is home to New Zealand’s only trampoline half pipe, and for wall to floor action the challenge wall allows you to bounce

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as high as you can to conquer the two metre wall. Palmerston North has many well known and loved heritage buildings including the Grand Hotel. It was originally a boarding house which in the 1880s became the Provincial Hotel. This timber building was destroyed by fire in January 1906 and the foundation stone of the Grand Hotel was laid on May 19 the same year. The hotel has hosted two royal visits — the Duke and Duchess of York in 1927, and Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh in 1954.

Acorn

We at Acorn Furniture have been manufacturing, restoring and repairing wooden furniture for the past 20 years. We use a select range of products for our restoration which we also retail to the public for the DIY enthusiast. Contact Peter with any ideas for a new piece of furniture or regarding any restoration projects.

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COMMUNITY

CALLS WILL YOU

FORWARD? You can make a huge difference in our community, call your local fire brigade and find out how you can step forward.

You make a huge difference our community, call Whanganui & can Rangitikei 06 348 0103 •inPalmerston North &our Manawatu 06 357 8025 New Plymouth Fire Station: 06 757 3860 – Liardet Street, New Plymouth Chief Fire Officer and find out how you can step forward.

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SEPTEMBER 2017

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

CROP & PASTURE PREP

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Water is a first consideration When considering cropping options, the irrigation of the property and the type of water delivery system used needs to be a priority at the top of anyone’s list. There are various types of pressurised systems available that have high capital and operating costs but may utilise minimal labour and conserve water. A variety of other systems are relatively less expensive to construct and operate but these may have high labour requirements. It is advisable to research the costs of maintenance and expected life along with an array of annual costs like energy, water, depreciation, land preparation, maintenance and labour. Once the water equation is taken care of, ensure there

100 IT’S NOT A TARGET

is a plan for the care and maintenance of the land itself. There is a growing trend with crop farmers moving more toward sustainable crop production which steers them away from the use of commercial pesticides. Several alternative measures are available including ‘integrated pest management’ — to protect crops from insects and weeds. IPM includes monitoring and identifying pests before they become a threat. Using plants in ‘companion planting’ that are natural insect repellants means commercial pesticides only need to be used sparingly when other methods fail. For intercropping place plants close together to reduce the available area for weeds to take hold. This also encourages plant diversity to avoid insect and pest infestation. Companion planting uses plants that are natural pest repellants such as marigolds and other plants that are more attractive to pests than the primary crop. Other plants are used to attract beneficial insects to the crop. Mulching controls weed growth — with minerals

replacing the home garden ‘newspaper’ mat. Ground cover plants are grown below the main crop to combat weeds. Organic fertilisers increase soil biodiversity and have been shown to increase the uptake of nutrients by plants. There is also evidence that use of organic fertilisers improves the nutrient value of the plants themselves. Intercropping, crop rotation, and mulching are sustainable crop production methods that help replenish and improve the soil by introducing plants that pull nitrogen from the air and release it into the soil or plants that can be turned under after their growing season to add additional nutrients. Crop rotation also increases yields, while monocropping has been implicated in declines in crop yield and loss of nutrients from the soil. Rotating crops allows soil to ‘rest’ and replenish vital micronutrients, microbes, and other important components, ultimately ensuring stock have good quality nutritious food.

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MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2017

C RO P A N D PA S T U R E P R E P

Harvesting needs good skills

TOPLINE FENCING

Harvest time is a crucial time in the farm calendar and in years gone by it was more often than not a call-out to the neighbours, and arranging a schedule for someone’s new tractor to meet up with another’s bailing machine, with the local farming community sharing in costs. Now technology advances have seen the cost of equipment soar as GPS systems and computers have come to the fore in economic reaping of croplands, from grains to maise, to ground crops. With this development, contractors have become the harvesters of choice. Efficient use is vital and machinery sitting in sheds is not economic in any sense. Thus, feeling secure in hiring outside help is important. This has led to the formation of New Zealand Master Contractors Incorporated with a mission statement ‘to protect and build a strong organisation that provides a sustainable high quality service to the cropping sector. The NZMCI was formed by the horticulture and viticulture contracting industries in association with the Department of Labour, to acknowledge and reward compliance and best practice, aiming to provide employers with a reliable, skilled and professional labour force, and help improve sustainability and productivity in the horticulture, viticulture and seasonal industries. With domestic sales taken

into account, the horticulture/viticulture industry is worth around $NZ 4.7 billion — making it New Zealand’s sixth largest industry. ‘Contractors are significant employers in the industry alongside growers and post harvest facilities, particularly during the peak picking season,’ the NZMCI says. ‘However, there is continuing pressure to incur cost and achieve compliance with a range of employment, immigration, health and safety, and various quality assurance programmes. Unfortunately there is also a significant number of non-compliant and fringe ‘cowboy’ operators who continue in business with no aspiration to meet these requirements. The organisation meets with the senior executives of industry bodies such as HortNZ, New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers, NZ Winegrowers and Pipfruit New Zealand, and uses the meetings to advance the interests of industry members who are good employers and operate compliant businesses. From grape and kiwifruit vines, to silage, hay, maize and vital food crop harvesting, the NZMCI offers an assurance of services at a vital date on the farming calendar.

T: 06 368 9849 | M: 0274 549 573 E: toplinefencing@xtra.co.nz W: www.toplinefencing.co.nz

FARMERS Do you have:

• Ground suitable for cereal cropping • Ground suitable for hay silage (October to March)

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Shave days off your burndown & regraze time.

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Experienced servicer of lifestyle blocks in the Manawatu

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SEPTEMBER 2017

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

C RO P A N D PA S T U R E P R E P

Balancing pasture

Maintaining a good balance between managing pasture and the cattle to maximise sustainable profit is an important part of pasturebased dairy farming. Optimising future pasture production through grazing management and quality helps with milk solids production and reproductive performance. Pasture intake is generally affected by the quality and quantity of the available pasture offered daily and the tools of grazing management include frequency and intensity of grazing. Pasture production and quality are mainly affected by the amount of pasture and grazing intensity. Information from DairyNZ says pasture and herd performance are optimised by having sufficient quality feed on an annual basis to meet cow demand and by allocating this feed.

Control the area that is grazed each day to help manipulate the pasture that is eaten to meet the average cover targets for the farm. Estimate the area and pre-grazing cover required for the cows based on the target grazing residual, and adjust after observing if the cows achieve a ‘consistent, even, grazing height’. It is good to treat pasture as a crop and remove that which has grown since the last grazing and prevent post-grazing height increasing over the season.

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You can’t beat Fodder beet!

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Rural Contractors

Distribute pasture cover between paddocks in a feed wedge to ensure that high quality feed is offered on all paddocks. Over the season the height of post-grazing residuals does not change but the dry matter mass does increase. This is the value of using ‘clicks’ on the Rising Plate Meter or one formula for the RPM for the season. The decisions about grazing frequency are often a result of farmer preference due to specific farm characteristics, for example even/uneven paddock sizes, shape of the farm, soil types, and labour

availability. The number of times fresh pasture is offered within a day does not affect dry matter intake or milk production and grazing frequency does not affect grazing time, rumination time or resting time of cows. As growth is influenced by a range of factors. There is no research evidence that the frequency of grazing — 12 versus 24 hours — affects pasture growth. It is much more important to maintain appropriate residuals of 1,500-1,600 kilograms DM/ha.

KP Contracting Ltd

- There is no substitute….

Have added a new precision planter to their fleet. The Horsch planter enables precision planting of maize, soya beans, sunflower, fodder beets and oilseed rape. The advanced technology allows for very accurate planting of multiple types of seeds. This planter plants 50cm (20”) rows as opposed to the normal 75cm (30”) rows for maize silage to potentially increase weight yields of the crop by increasing the gap between the plants in the row. 50cm(20”) rows seem to be the way of the future! Fodder beet can now be planted with fertilizer at planting which is most beneficial.

For all your planting requirements please phone:

Kerry 027 443 7315 or Peter 027 447 7345

or the operations office at 49 Jackeytown Road on 06 329 6882

Daljeet Singh - Mobile (0274) 423 156 Silage • Grass • Balage • Squares • Rounds

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2017

Dog joins stink bug fight

A bug-sniffing detector dog introduced by the Ministry for Primary Industries will help stop the potentially devastating brown marmorated stink bug from making a home in New Zealand. Georgie, an MPI labrador, demonstrated her sniffing skills on stage recently by locating dead stink bugs hidden in a harvesting machine at the New Zealand Winegrowers conference in Blenheim. MPI will have two trained dogs ready to sniff out stink bugs this summer, including a specialist dog to assist with detecting the pest in the event of an incursion,” says MPI border clearance director Steve Gilbert. “While we do our best to prevent this unwanted pest coming into New Zealand in the first place, we need to be prepared if something slips through our border defences. “Studies by the United States Department of Agriculture and our own trials show that dogs have huge potential to help detect stink bugs when they cluster in groups.” Mr Gilbert says the stink bug dogs will also assist with biosecurity detection work at the border, including locating bugs on imported vehicles and machinery. “Georgie is an experienced detector dog and picked up the new scent very quickly. This suggests it should be relatively easy to train other MPI dogs at short notice for stink bug detection work.” The stink bug season will start on September 1. Mr Gilbert says MPI will again be stepping up its efforts over the spring and summer months to stop the brown marmorated stink bug from reaching New Zealand. “This will include carrying out increased inspections of vessels and goods from the United States and countries in Europe where the bug is established.” Brown marmorated stink bug would have a serious impact on New Zealand’s horticultural industries if it became established, he says. “Preventing a stink bug invasion is one of MPI’s highest biosecurity priorities.”

TRACTOR & MACHINERY SERVICE & REPAIRS AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE, REPAIRS AND HOSE MAKING SPARE PARTS & FARM OILS IMPLEMENTS & ATTACHMENTS - SALES AND SERVICE FACTORY TRAINED TECHNICIAN

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SEPTEMBER 2017

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES ADVERTORIAL

ADVERTORIAL

Improving joint health (Part 1) The best part of what I do is to see improvements in those who have the courage to try something different. My client files are full of testimonies of those who have improved. Just this morning a client I have been helping for four months called for her monthly check in. When I first spoke with her she had a very sore hip and various muscle aches and pains. We made some changes to her diet and put her on a number of antiinflammatory and joint supporting supplements. As a result her hip has improved to the point she can walk again. Additionally she has much more energy and the vitamin D we added has helped a great deal with moods and general motivation. The body is quite miraculous. If you feed it the nutrients it really needs then dormant healing processes can then help restore body systems back towards normal. This is especially true for joints affected by osteoarthritis. In March I started helping a man in his 70s with painful arthritis in his knee, feet and hands especially his thumbs.

Worst of all was the joint where the thumb attaches to the wrist. This joint is highly susceptible to arthritis and it can be very disabling. When I spoke to him in June his feet and knees were much improved. He could now use stairs with ease. His hands and thumb have improved significantly and are still improving. While we made some dietary changes the main benefits came from increasing his Omega 3 fish oil to 6,000mg daily and adding a double dose of my joint formula. This meant he initially was taking 1,500mg of glucosamine, 1,500mg of super-high grade chondroitin and 200mg of my proprietary 95% curcumin (turmeric) extract. Feel free to contact me for more information. John Arts (B.Soc.Sci, Dip Tch, Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For personalised advice, contact John on 0800 423 559 or email john@ abundant.co.nz. Join his full weekly newsletter at www.abundant.co.nz.

Abundant Health Bettaflex Super Joint Formula What is Bettaflex? • Bettaflex is a joint support formula to promote healthy joint cartilage function. • Bettaflex combines high grade chondroitin sulphate, glucosamine sulphate and a potent 95% curcumin (turmeric) extract. • Each capsule of Bettaflex contains 382mg of high grade chondroitin, 425mg of glucosamine and 50mg of curcumin extract.

A Blue Do for cancer care It’s Blue September again and the Prostate Cancer Foundation is getting the message out to Kiwi men to get checked for prostate cancer.

This year it is all about having a ‘Blue Do’ so get organised with some mates, colleagues and family, and arrange an event to spread the message and raise some funds to support the foundation. Farmers, tradies, workmates and radio hosts are all getting in on the act. You can check out upcoming events and get ideas for your own Blue Do on the website. Perhaps you fancy a blue breakfast, a blue barbecue or a blueberry bake off? Or organise a Blue Friday like many workplaces organise. It really gets people involved in dressing up, preparing some novelty food, and focusses on awareness of prostate cancer. Jason Gunn has joined the great team of Blue September Ambassadors — he tells how his dad was diagnosed with

the disease, and how hard it was to talk about it and what the prospects might be. Fortunately for them the outcome was good. Early detection is the key. With one in eight men getting prostate cancer, catching the disease early and getting effective treatment saves lives. That’s the central message this Blue September. Family members can be a great incentive and encouragement for the men in their family to go to the GP and get a check. Don’t leave it to the men — they are often a bit slack in looking after their health. If they won’t go to get a check themselves, make an appointment and get them along. Find out more and register for a ‘Blue Do’ at blueseptember.org.nz

How can Bettaflex help?

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• Chondroitin and glucosamine are building blocks of cartilage. • Supplementation with correct levels can support healthy cartilage function and cartilage repair processes. • Curcumin from turmeric helps to balance joint immune function to support joint health. • Research suggests chondroitin is effective only at levels of over 700mg daily.

John Arts comments:

Proudly supporting the Prostate Cancer Foundation this Blue September.

“I formulated Bettaflex based on the latest research into natural compounds that can help with joint support and function. The normal dose is 2 capsules daily but I recommend a double dose for the first 1-2 bottles to saturate joint tissue.” (John Arts, Founder Abundant Health Ltd)

Abundant Health

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This Blue September, join me in the fight against prostate cancer Whether you go little or large, it’s time to get your blue on for Blue September. This year, we’re asking you to get together and have a Blue Do – that’s right, a Blue Do – to help fund the fight against prostate cancer. The only question is… how blue will you do?

Find out more at blueseptember.org.nz

MIND YOUR SPEED AROUND SCHOOL BUSES

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2017

ADVERTORIAL

Organics on the radar by John K Morris, CEO of Agrissentials

QUAD BIKE SAFETY

A quick phone call from my neighbour Eru enticed me to attend a meeting at the Poututerangi Marae in Te Puna. The main speaker was Mike Scaddan a previous headmaster of Te Puna School, and a strong advocate to stop the use of toxic chemical sprays throughout the Te Puna kiwifruit, avocado and citrus orchards. At the end of World War II, large chemical conglomerates who were manufacturing and selling inhumane gases during the war, turned these toxic products towards pest and disease to continue the cash flow. Initially, the people accepted these toxic sprays as a new way to control pest and disease, however, with the heavy overuse of these deadly sprays it didn’t take long for the pest and disease to become immune. So, we have a new problem on our hands — how do we control the pest and disease? At present, globally, we are in the midst of pest and disease and authorities don’t know how to handle it. As a commercial grower, The Ministry of Agriculture had me on a weekly spray programme of two fungicides and three insecticides — saying prevention is better than cure. The more I sprayed the more I had to spray, so after eight years I changed my regime. At the time I was working with a multi-mineral, microbial rich solid fertiliser — Rok Solid, and a multi-mineral, microbial rich liquid fertiliser — Oceans100. My belief was that with all this available natural mineral I was feeding the plant, the plant would

be able to fix its own immune system. And that’s how it happened. That saved a lot of time and money. Plants grown as crops are susceptible to all manner of pest and disease and when pesticides are used the plants are coated in toxic sprays, whereby they cannot develop their own natural immunity; in a live, living, multi-mineral, microbial rich soil the plant has all the necessary equipment to protect itself and build immunity. In a chemical programme the plants are weak and continually need more chemical inputs, which is what the ‘chemical — treadmill’ is all about, and worse than that, these toxic chemical sprays are going straight into the food chain. According to Patrick Holden, CEO of Sustainable Food Trust, ‘we are locked into a cycle of ever-increasing industrial farming based on a chemical mindset and a reductionist approach, and we desperately need to break free of it.“ When we pick up a handful of live soil, it’s hard to imagine all the activity that is happening at a microscopic scale within it and the powerful impact it has. This web of life in a healthy soil is a

magical world of interaction that science is only just beginning to understand. It is essential that farming recognises and understands the importance of microorganisms and their ability to transfer natural minerals into a plant available form; locking these minerals into the humus they produce to stop the minerals from leaching. This humus also stores water, increasing water retention quality in the soil and on the farm. Agrissentials NZ Ltd has the ultimate products to keep your farm, animals, orchard, vineyard, market garden and home gardens in top condition. Visit us at www.agrissentials.com or give us a call on 0800 THE KEY for a FREE INFO PACK, that’s 0800 843 539 to find out how we can partner with you to find a better way of farming. Alternatively you can contact your best on earth fertiliser representative Ben Tippins on 021 738 601 to grab your special deal today.

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SEPTEMBER 2017

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

DAIRY

Irrigation Matters with Clem Powell The mystery of engine driven pumps There is nothing new about engine driven pumps. One has only to visit the local A&P show to see various pumps driven by steam, petrol or diesel engines. Most of these pumps will be piston type for delivery of home or stock water Golden Bay Dolomite NZ’s most loved magnesium.

call 0800 436 566 or visit www.dolomite.co.nz

POND DEATH Do we have to kill the good guys to get the bad guys? Most farmers use Chlorine to clean their sheds. Problem is, Chlorine also kills the good bacteria in your pond that eat the crust and sludge. Now there’s a new Chlorine-free sanitiser that kills pathogens better than Chlorine and leaves the good guys alone! It’s called DX50.

and often require a lot of TLC not to mention strong arms for starting. This should not be a deterrent as technology has moved on. Steam admittedly is almost unknown for irrigation pumping due to special skills and equipment. Petrol, except in very small systems is not favoured due to fuel costs and also lower BTU (British Thermal Units) which is how the energy in a fuel is measured. Diesel comes up on top in both these cases. Diesel really is best even for a small system. Take it from a motor mechanic that the extra spent on a diesel unit will more than pay off in the constant slog of irrigation pumping. Electricity certainly is favoured by many but also consider standing line charges and any diminishing of supply to other appliances such as a milking shed. The upgrade of a transformer and extra supply line may well make your eyes water. So, what to buy? Quality Irrigation companies will have access

to correctly specified units and we welcome enquiries as a large part of our business at Irri-Max Ltd is in diesel pump units. Generally, buying something from a clearance sale or Trademe will not be the best option. In the first instance can you be sure the pump has been used for exactly the same duty as you intend. Did the original owner spec it correctly? Sellers on many websites often do not know what they are offering. The best they can say about their pump is they are supposed to have max flow of “X” and max pressure of “Y”. Pumps have a best efficiency point, normally at 2/3 max flow and this is the point a pump technician will try to achieve, balanced with available power

and speed from the diesel engine. As you can already appreciate, there are multiple options which make it more than a little tricky for the layman to get it right. Direct drive is preferable rather than belt due to difficulty with belt alignment and even tensioning, along with safety. Electric start is a must even on the small units as irrigation units have a tendency to run shy of fuel. Bleeding is much easier with electric start. Which brings me to the next issue; control Panels! In the next column we will cover some of the fascinating features available for diesel pump units.

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MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2017

LIVESTOCK

ADVERTORIAL

The grand daddy of wool producers He’s inquisitive, enjoys a bit of a yarn, calls a spade a spade and thoroughly enjoys his vocation. Bruce Worsnop has spent decades combining his skill and knowledge with science so that “dagginess” is fast becoming history along with tremendous worm tolerance. Bruce, and son Patrick, operate a Lincoln ram stud and commercial flock of 2,000 purebred Lincoln ewes in conjunction with a beef finishing operation running 1,000/1,500 bulls in Central Hawkes Bay. Their Makaroro Road property, in the lee of the Ruahine Ranges covers some 1,900 acres, is 5kms long, 3kms wide with undulating hills and flat pasture. Elderly, native totaras dot the hilly pasture which at its summit, is 1036 feet (315 metres) gives 360 degree views of a verdant, seemingly unpopulated Central Hawke’s Bay. “We’ve been selecting our Lincoln Ram stud sires and the females we put into the stud flock for their tolerance to worms over the last 40 years.” Primary focus is wool production, and its heritability in the flock of the purchaser.

As breeders, the last three decades have been successful because of the demand for lustrous wool, mohair blends and the hand knotted rug market. Bruce concentrated on wool, breeds and selects for it. Lincoln’s were the first English long wool breed to become established in New Zealand in the latter part of the 1800’s. They are the heaviest wool producing breed known. More recently they have been used as a first crossing sire to lift wool production in the flock of the purchaser by around 20%. “All our wool is sold at auction with Segard Masurel having first refusal on every kilo they clip. The company has bought the bulk of the Lincoln “Kowhai” clip for over 40 years. The wool is often supplied for a process that blends the wool with mohair. ‘The price we receive varies from 2070 cents a kilo, and at times $2 premium over similar micron wools.” With his finger very much on the pulse of the many facets of the wool industry he is hopeful The Campaign for Wool

launched by Prince Charles earlier this year will promote the benefits of wool and see increased demand. The campaign, which Bruce describes as “a breath of fresh air” is a great opportunity for wool growers to consolidate, unite and support the project. As for the future

Bruce and Pat are still experimenting but are rather tight lipped. All Bruce will say is that his latest project involves lustrous wool and another labour saving trait. The Worsnop’s sell rams privately in November and December by private treaty.

Lincolns are the “Heaviest wool producing breed known” 8kgs+ per sheep stock unit wintered… 1. Cross breeding with Lincoln will increase wool production by up to 23% in one cross. 2. Bring wool production back to an economic level in one cross over any breed. Ten+ years quicker than any comparative wool breed. “Guaranteed” 3. Rams available in Central Hawke’s Bay, trucked to any part of NZ with one phone call. 4. Largest Flock in NZ 2000 Purebred Ewe base allows selection for: a. Commercial traits i.e. open face, high twinning (also will be exaggerated by hybrid vigour from crossing with your flock)

Email worsy@xtra.co.nz

b. Selection for worm tolerance for over 40 years. c. Easy care traits. Selected for commercial traits not show traits. d. High yielding wool clip, averaging 83%. When run in conjunction with Romney stud for ten years Lincolns wool yield was 1-4% greater than Romney’s: Commercial Fact. 5. Wool sold at Auction in Napier has many times topped the crossbred market, aided by low Y-Z factor = Whiteness 6. Heavy clipping Lincolns are high twinning ewes.

Bruce M. Worsnop Associated with Lincolns for over 65 years Tikokino Central Hawke’s Bay Phone 06 856 5857 or 021 856585

SIS BALL COCK VALVE Price $99.50+GST Freight free anywhere in NZ • Buy 10 receive 12 and 2x service kits • 3 models available – all the one price • Nearly indestructible • Only NZ Manufacturer providing lifetime guarantee on the body of the ballcock

www.sisballcock.co.nz | 0800 175 720 Only available direct from manufacturer

ARE YOUR GIRLS LAYING GOLDEN EGGS? No, we didn’t think so! But do you ever wonder if the cost of keeping chickens outweigh the cost of the eggs they produce? A Grandpas Feeder will help keep your feed costs low, saving you $$

We like to let our customers do the talking. To see what they have to say, visit our website www.grandpasfeeders.co.nz Email: mark@grandpasfeeders.co.nz | Phone: 07 552 5225 or 027 276 9794

RONGOTEA SALEYARDS SPECIALISTS IN ALL CLASSES OF DAIRY, STORE AND FAT STOCK NZ Owned & Operated

Malcolm Coombe Richard Trembath Emmet McConnell Darryl Harwood Cameron Smith Ross Karam Todd Bray Chris Hay John Watson

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These are free phones direct to our mobiles. Office (06) 324 8135 Web www.mylivestock.co.nz

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

SEPTEMBER 2017

RURAL WHEELS

Gunning for the crown by Andy Bryenton

When it comes to modern utes, many buyers entering the market feel they have a choice between two top contenders. There’s the Ford Ranger, riding high on years of awards and sales figures, and the Toyota Hilux, the once-all-powerful monarch of the rural roads, still slugging in a close second place. Now there’s a challenger so far out of left field it’s almost tempting to use a metaphor from recent Kiwi politics. The new face of LDV has been its range of big, dependable work vans for some time now, and they’ve gained traction with tradies and fleets in a big way. Now the company is bursting into the ute market with a four-wheel drive double cab that both looks the part, and carries a very affordable price tag. It’s called the T60, and it’s shaking up a sector already graced with new low-cost utes by Mahindra, Great Wall and Foton. T60 was first unveiled to the public during the National Feildays in June this year. Sales and marketing manager

Warren Willmot says: “Feedback from the public display at Mystery Creek was incredible. The interest in this vehicle has been remarkable and now the customers who have signed up and been waiting for their T60s to arrive have the added bonus of the five year, 130,000km warranty.” LDV — manufactured by the immense SAIC autos company, China’s largest — plan to offer the T60 with both diesel and petrol engines, two suspension heights, three gearbox options and even the ability to switch from ‘eco’ fuel saving mode to ‘power’ mode with the push of a button.

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The new LDV T60 builds on the strong reputation LDV’s vans have established in the local market

Stylistically, the T60 looks aggressive and sharp, with the big chromed grille and chunky roll bars we’ve come to recognise as many new utes’ homage to the F150 out of America. That’s no bad thing — the big Ford sells a unit nearly every five seconds, and is going strong after decades. LDV entered the market with a lot to prove, and their

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vans, people movers and transporters have shown that they can tango with the best. It’s a bold move to step right into the tough ute market and even tougher to contest the crown held so tenaciously by Ford. But for the business or fleet buyer looking for value as well as practicality, the T60 may prove irresistible.

CARAVANS & MOTOR HOMES

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MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2017

New Plymouth Girls’ High School is a school that undertakes to ensure that the young women entering its gates will receive an education that enhances learning and is responsive to individual needs. Our platform of traditional values encourages respect, responsibility and positive relationships. What we offer is a unique opportunity to be educated at one of New Zealand’s oldest, most prestigious state girls’ schools that is committed to the education of young women.

LIFE AT SCOTLANDS HOSTEL › Fee guarantee. From Friday 26th May 2017 your hostel fees are assured for the time your daughter is enrolled. A family guarantee also applies. › Warm, caring and secure environment. › Full access to school grounds and facilities. › 150 boarders - Years 9 to 13. › Excellent staff/student ratio and active 24-hour care. › Homework supervised by a trained teacher. Tuition in time-management and study skills that contributes towards excellent academic results.

› Active and supportive extra-curricular programme. › High expectations of courtesy and acceptable behaviour. › Leadership opportunities and training. › Increased independence encouraged at all levels. › Boarders make a notable cultural, academic, social, sporting and leadership contribution to the life of the school. › The independence, maturity and lifelong friendships that boarding encourages are excellent foundations for adult life.

We also have outstanding support services delivered by staff out of our Careers, Learning Support and Wellness Centres. Respect – Whakamana, Responsibility – Haepapa and positive Relationships – Whanaugatanga

We invite you to join with us on the next phase of your educational journey by making New Plymouth Girls’ High School your first choice in secondary education.

New Plymouth Girls’ High School

Private Bag 2049, New Plymouth, 4342

P: 06 757 3840

www.npghs.school.nz

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SEPTEMBER 2017

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

SHIPPING

CONTAINERS TO BUY & HIRE WE HAVE WHAT YOU NEED!

Spacewise specialise in the lease and purchase of new and used shipping containers. With a varied range of containers including standard, high cube, side opening and refrigerated units.

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