Manawatu Farming Lifestyles, September 2018

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Team effort on family orchard

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Sights set on dairy career from young age Page 8–9

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September 2018

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

GoodYarn mental health workshops set

Integrity community media

A series of GoodYarn workshops, facilitated by New Zealand Young Farmers, endeavours to get young people talking about mental health.

The Manawatu Farming Lifestyles is published with pride by Integrity Community Media, a privately owned NZ company. Phone: 0800 466 793 Email: info@integrity.nz General Manager: Deb Wright | debw@integrity.nz | 021 639 696 Editorial: Ann van Engelen, Denise Gunn, Paul Campbell, Andy Bryenton MEMBER OF:

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Following last year’s challenging spring, ten successful GoodYarn workshops were held from Whangarei to Gore in November. The workshops are designed to equip people with the tools to identify the signs of mental illness and seek appropriate support. Five more workshops are planned this spring for Taranaki/Manawatu, Tasman, Aorangi and East Coast. “It is important people have the skills to recognise if a family member, neighbouring farmer or customer is struggling,” said New Zealand Young Farmers territory manager, Megan Bates. Figures recently released by the chief coroner reveal New Zealand’s suicide rate has risen for the fourth year in a row. The provisional statistics show 668 people took their own lives in the 2017/18 year. The highest number of suicides was recorded in the 20–24 year age group.

“These figures are a tragedy. We need to keep educating people to spot the signs that someone close to them may want to take their own life,” said Megan. Latest figures show the number of suicides has increased in Southland, Canterbur y, Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne regions. New Zealand Young Farmers is working to secure funding to run further workshops next year. The organisation has a network of close to 80 clubs across the country. “Members hold monthly meetings, organise regular social events and take part in contests and competitions,” said Megan. “The aim of all of those things is to get people who often work in isolated jobs off-farm and socialising.” The Taranaki/Manawatu GoodYarn workshop is set for Thursday, October 25. The venue is still to be confirmed.

Ian McKelvie MP for Rangitikei

The Productivity Commission has recommended that up to 2.8 million hectares of trees are planted to achieve New Zealand’s carbon neutrality by 2050. Whatever species are used, this would nearly triple our planted forest estate. It represents the biggest land use change since we first lost most of our indigenous forest cover. It would be the biggest project ever undertaken by a New Zealand government, certainly since the 1870s. We’ve always grown trees for their timber. From now, trees are also to be grown in the global battle against climate change. The government, together with iwi, farmers and the public, will need to get this right for our very environmental and economic survival. The challenge is huge.

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MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2018

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of farms fencing off the Oroua and its tributaries. Fencing off the streams are just one part of their project; they often hold community planting days to plant up the riparian margins, which has benefits by slowing down run-off to absorb nutrients and increased habitat for the birds, bees, bugs and fish. This group has been applying for the grants since the programme began and have achieved a significant amount.” Mr Brown said this year’s applications will be assessed based on environmental benefits, feasibility, community involvement and long-term benefits to the catchment. There is also likely to be a strong preference towards ‘on the ground’ work. As accord partners, Horizons administer the programme and provide support and technical advice to successful applicants. Applications for the Manawatu River Leaders’ Accord community grants close on Monday, October 8 2018 at 4pm. The amount granted depends on the merits of the applications, and there is a total funding pool of $100,000. Application forms are available via the Manawatu River website or by contacting Horizons’ freshwater team on freephone 0508 800 800.

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Since it began in 2012, the programme has aimed to assist nonprofit organisations such as community groups, schools, catchment care groups and iwi/hapu with projects that will help increase engagement with Manawatu waterways and improve water quality in the catchment. Manawatu River Leaders’ Forum chair, Richard Thompson, said the standard of previous applications has been exceptional. “We know there are some fantastic ideas out there that may need a bit of help to get off the ground or grow. If you or someone you know has a project in mind, please get in touch with Horizons’ freshwater team to discuss your project,” said Mr Thompson. Horizons freshwater and partnerships manager, Logan Brown, says application forms are now available online at manawaturiver.co.nz. “Previous applicants have received funding to complete stream fencing, riparian planting, wetland enhancement, educational projects and longfin eel repatriation,” he said. “We are pleased to be able to support project groups such as the Oroua Catchment Care Group in Feilding, who are working their way through a number

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4

September 2018

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

PART TWO

BY DENISE GUNN

Although Nuts ‘n May is not a registered organic farm, it operates on a sustainable system.

W

ith a wide range of different walnut varieties on the farm, harvesting starts in midMarch. The main crops fall in April, and the late-falling varieties finish in mid-May. “We harvest over six tonnes by hand using walnut rollers that look a bit like wire mops, while it’s labour-intensive, this has the advantage of having people on hand to grade and process the nuts, so there isn’t a backlog.” says Hel. Hel said they had considered mechanisation — but the machines used tend to either not be suitable for their large trees, or result in immature

nuts and leaves being gathered — this requires more time in dehusking and sorting out rubbish. During the harvest, nuts are collected from the orchard blocks every day. Walnuts brought into the processing shed are hand-sorted, washed in rainwater, and placed into drying racks. “Walnuts need to be dried or cured before they can be sacked and sold,” said Hel. “Drying is best done in cool, dark, airy conditions to ensure the edible kernel is pale and fresh. If not dried properly, walnuts will go mouldy or rancid.” Scott turned a shipping container into a dryer with solar and wind power.

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MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2018

It allows the walnuts to dry in four weeks instead of months. “This means we have the first walnuts of the season ready for sale in May,” said Hel. Scott and Hel’s love of travel kept them taking on the farm full-time earlier. “On long distance walks across Spain, Scott would prop himself up at the bar, with a beer and Jamon iberico to discuss nut fattening with local pig farms. “The Spanish farmers thought he was loco as no one in their right mind would waste walnuts on pigs — theirs are fed on acorns. “Scott’s persistence paid off, and he got to raise his Berkshires under our trees and develop a sideline in nutfed pork.” By far, the biggest challenge the family have faced was Scott’s diagnosis of terminal cancer. He passed away at the start of the 2017 harvest. “Scott loved the farm, and from the first time he visited — he has appreciated the work that has gone into creating a beautiful and productive place. “He and Walter spent over 10 years gently prodding me to give up city life and move to the country. “Walter would pat the pine trees and comment how they were now ready for milling to make our house. Eventually, we did build a farmhouse — designed by my daughter Fran who had just graduated with a master’s in architecture.” Hel said a highlight for Scott was being able to put ‘swineherd’ as his occupation. “I’m never quite sure what my official title is; at the moment it appears to be ‘chief nutter’.” Since Scott’s death, the family’s plans for the orchard changed, and Hel has

5

Scott Wilson with a Berkshire boar named Napoleon had to scale back some of the projects. “As a vegetarian, I am not that keen on hauling porkers off the works — so now run the Berkshires as a stud, selling weaners and breeders. Piglets are always popular.” Plans to fatten their own lambs were also put on hold. Instead, a grazing arrangement with a neighbouring farmer works well for both parties. The bulk of the crop is sold online at nutsnmay.co.nz. “As harvest volumes increase, we have also started to supply grocers and produce markets, mainly in Auckland. As well as tasting great, walnuts have great health properties, and people are becoming increasingly interested

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in eating nuts as a regular feature of their diet.” Hel is currently focussing on finding markets for the walnuts to keep pace with the crop increase. She said walnut farming is a longterm venture — as walnuts can last for hundreds of years. “The farm has already had one generation change

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and who is to say what will happen in the future. Scott’s and my adult children bring a range of new skills to the farm and help out. They also have a say in how the family farm is run. “Our aim is to continue running the farm as a walnut orchard, providing a quality local product.”

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September 2018

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

by Denise Gunn With a focus on quality, production and reproduction, Ruaview Stud owners John and Helen Hammond are meeting the challenge with Simmental and Angus.

T

hree generations of John’s family have lived on the couple’s Ohakune proper ty. John’s grandfather bought the farm around 1917 and established Ruaview Friesian Stud a few years later. The dairy farm operated for many years until the local dairy factory in Raetihi closed in the late 1980s, leaving the family with nowhere to sell their milk. As one door closed on the dairy herd, another opened when John and Helen started breeding beef cattle. The stud name, Ruaview, remained. The first Simmental arrived on the Hammond’s farm in 1992 after purchasing stock from Ailsa and Wai-iti Simmental studs. John said other notable purchases followed including Singing Hills Helen

from Barry and Dot Anderson’s stud in Te Awamutu. “Ruaview Scotch was a son of Singing Hills Helen who went on to win Supreme Simmental Bull at the 2008 Beef Expo and runner-up to all bulls that year at Beef Expo. “Scotch’s great-grandson, Ruaview Pinetree, won the Supreme Simmental in 2016, again at the Beef Expo.” Scotch’s progeny have been very influential in the Hammond’s Simmental herd. Bull purchases through AI; Moneymore Kiwi Kid, MF Fitzy and Glen Anthony Waiata have also had a very strong impact on Ruaview Stud. Ten years ago the couple founded their Angus stud, complementing the Simmental for cross-breeding purposes.

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MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2018

“Simmental cattle are performance cattle and perform in every aspect,” said John. “Angus cattle are a maternal breed, and this is why they complement each other in cross-breeding.” The Angus herd commenced with the purchase of 21 in-calf heifers from Hingaia Angus Stud near Te Awamutu. “Continuing on from these genetics, AI has been used along with bull purchases from Atahua Angus and Fossil Creek Angus,” said John. “This has seen the cattle develop into the type of cattle we are seeking to breed to fit the climatic conditions of our area. We are calving 50 Angus this year, and our breeding philosophy is the same as the Simmental breed — ‘Breeding for Production and Reproduction’. “All females from both breeds must calve as two-year-olds and every year thereafter.” At 2,000 feet above sea level, with Mount Ruapehu as a backdrop, the farm receives an average annual rainfall of 1,450mm. Snowstorms are the biggest issue farming at this altitude and location. “It gets cold at times with usually four to five falls of snow each year, during snow we sometimes have to feed the animals two to three days a day.” says John. John said this depends on how the snow is falling as the feed can get covered by a heavy fall before the animals can eat it. “We also get severe frosts with temperatures dropping to -10C and in summer get hot at 30C.” Grass growth is limited for 90 days during winter. Winter crops, hay and silage, meet any shortfall in grass. Farming in this environment can be testing — but the Hammonds know the requirements, breeding cattle suitable to the climate and conditions. Most of the farm’s original 121 hectares were turned back into a dairy block. The farm’s home block is now made up of 100ha of flat land. Thirty hectares of this block is used to fatten the stud bulls and some young stock. A further 60ha is long-term leased for the stud cows. John said this is hilly land and during winter the cows are grazed off. “We calve between 80 and 85 cows and all replacements.

“The entire focus is on quality; to breed bulls for stud and commercial breeders to enhance the profitability of their operation, on production and reproduction. “Emphasis is placed on docility, structural soundness, carcase qualities and moderate EBVs across all traits.” Stock are sold through an annual onfarm auction. In May, the couple sold 15 20-monthold Angus bulls at an average price of $5,538 and 13 20-month-old Simmental bulls averaging $5,446. Some surplus female stock is sold, otherwise excess or culled animals go to the works. The annual on-farm bull sale is a highlight on the Hammond’s farming calendar. It also underlines earlier decisions made on the breeding of bulls going under the auctioneer’s hammer. John is vice president of Simmental NZ and has been a breed councillor for a number of years. He is a registered judge with the Royal A & P Society too, judging many events including the Easter Royal Show in Auckland. “We are also members of the Angus Society,” said Helen. Additionally, John is a qualified beef class assessor. “This involves him assessing cattle in a one-on-one situation for structural soundness. John’s biggest wish is for

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8

September 2018

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

Sights set on

dairy career from young age by Denise Gunn

From a young age, Brandon Holdt loved visiting his uncle’s dairy farm, following him around on a pushbike and spending time in the shed. Although Brandon was a townie for most of his life, these visits set the course towards his decision to settle on a dairy farming career.

B

randon began his career as a junior farm assistant on a 220-cow dairy farm at Warea in coastal Taranaki. “I stayed there for a season to get my basic skills and knowledge of the dayto-day basics of running a dairy farm,” he said. A move to a farm assistant position on a 650-cow dairy farm unit in

northern Manawatu followed. However, Brandon found the location presented a few problems. The farm was an hour’s drive away from any friends or family, and snowfall throughout winter added to the isolation. “It was starting to make me come to terms if this was the right job for me,” he said. Brandon decided to give it one last try and applied for a few positions closer to Palmerston North. “In April 2015 I got offered to work in a big organisation,

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and everyone was one big family.” Brandon said there was so much to learn and all types of machinery on the farm. “You would get all herds in morning and night, set up break fences, move irrigator, and bring cows to the feed pads, which held 1,000 cows in four different bays.” “There was also tractor work which you would be loading up and mixing the feed, and feeding out on the feed pad or in the paddocks,” he said. “Also doing other jobs when it was in the busy period, like helping with maize and silage or cultivating paddocks. It was a massive operation.” Brandon recently returned to Taranaki after working in the Manawatu for three years. He is now 2IC for James Holgate and Tracy Kivell who contract milk 360 Jersey crossbred cows, on a 137haeffective farm near Midhurst. James is the 2018 Taranaki Dairy Manager of the Year. The Midhurst farm receives an average annual rainfall of close to 2,000mls. Maize is grown, along with silage and hay. Brandon found this winter has been warmer compared to other years with only a handful of frosts. “Every day is a new challenge as you never know what’s going to come round the corner,” said Brandon. “I would say the bigger challenges would be getting to know all the pasture side of things, as this is my first year of working it out on my own. Having the owner and contract milker here, who are

A herd of 360 Jersey crossbred cows are milked on the Midhurst farm

both strong in this section, will give me a better understanding and guide me through it all.” Brandon has completed Primary ITO’s level two milk quality course, and the level three livestock husbandry course. He plans to return to Primary ITO studies next season. With a better understanding of pasture management, Brandon plans to work towards achieving Primary ITO level four. It will enable him to follow a contract milking or farm management role. Entering the Dairy Industry Awards in the future is also on Brandon’s list, along with looking at herd ownership.

9

Brandon is 2IC for 2018 Taranaki Dairy Manager of the Year James Holgate and partner Tracy Kivell

“I enjoy getting up knowing that I am out in the fresh air doing what I love,” said Brandon. “Making sure that the girls are happy and the job is getting done to the best I can make it.” Prior to leaving Taranaki to work in the Manawatu, Brandon was a member of Coastal Young Farmers. “I really enjoyed meeting new people, helping out the community and activities that were done with Young Farmers. Since returning to Taranaki, Brandon has rejoined the organisation through the Central Taranaki branch and caught up with a couple of former schoolmates. Brandon said the farming lifestyle suits

him and he has no desire to return to a town job. “I wouldn’t change it for a thing,” he said. “I love bringing my son out on the farm and getting him into it all. He will be a farmer one day, I reckon. “It’s good for the younger age kids to see what goes on.” “To everyone farming, take every day as it comes — nothing is too easy or too hard. Always ask for help when needed,” said Brandon. “New Zealand’s farming sector is like a big farm. You are never alone. When times get hard, seek help.”

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September 2018

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

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+ Opera & markets! Sunday September 8th – Saturday September 28th 2019 (21 days) This unique itinerary is designed for 20 discerning travellers.

Bathe in the Mediterranean Sea; visit seaside villages and ancient gardens with stunning views! Meet our friends in Tuscany for lunch on the farm, enjoying their deliciously fresh produce and wines. You will not be bored by lots of facts and figures! No standing in long queues, because we make appointments and book suitable times well ahead. You will be immersed in the daily lives of Italians because you are travelling with an

Italian!! Most tourists do not have this opportunity!! Accommodation in 4 and 5 star quality small family run hotels for 3 and 4 nights in the historic centres, so you can be immersed in the daily lives of the locals! We will introduce you to our Italian friends who accompany us during parts of our daily programme!! Daily ‘a la carte’ dining in local restaurants, including wine and beverages of your choice.

Entry fees and all tipping included. Your luggage will be handled by porters during your travels with us! You will NOT be coach bound – we only travel short distances – refreshments en route included!

Our regular clients choose to travel with us because “quality is better than quantity”!! They thank us for immersing them in the real culture that the average traveller would never see. The age group of our ‘discerning’ travellers is generally 40’s to mid 70’s, professional and like minded people – all wanting to experience something new, have fun, relax and travel hassle– free and at a gentle pace!

Also available are itineraries for 14 travellers to Sicily; Italian Lakes & Cinque Terre; Italian Opera in Verona; Corsica & Sardinia 2019. P.O. BOX 556, WAIHEKE ISLAND, AUCKLAND 1840, NEW ZEALAND. Tel 0800 387 872 or Email susan@etruscan.co.nz • www.travelitalyinstyle.com • Directors: Susan Williamson and John Percy

QUALITY USED STOCK 2016 HONDA TRX500

All prices include GST

2015 POLARIS UTE

2017 SUZUKI LTF300

FA6G, one dry stock owner, 13819kms, 998hrs, new dog mat, full independent susp, automatic with electric shift option (manual), bullbars, tow bar, mud flaps.

One own/op on sheep farm, Bear Claw tyres, tow hitch, HD kit for NZ, power steer, fuel injected, 2WD/4WD with engine braking, tilt box, mirrors, indicators, horn, approx. 2000kms.

Only 991 kms!! King Quad 300 like new cond, with bullbar kit, 3-speed sub-trans with high, low & super-low ranges + 2WD/4WD & front difflocked 4WD.

$12,995

$5,995

$7,995

2014 YAMAHA GRIZZLY

2009 JOHN DEERE GATOR

2013 POLARIS RANGER XP900

YFM550 one own/op on sheep farm, 29394kms, 2191hrs, EFI, CVT trans, Auto Hi/Lo trans, 2wd/4wd & difflock, bullbars, Bear Claw tyres, mud flaps, dog mat.

Good cond Gator 855D, Yanmar 855cc 3 cylinder liquid cooled diesel engine, tilt deck, CVT trans, On Demand true all wheel drive system, good BKT tyres, 2189 hrs.

$6,500

$10,995

2015 YAMAHA VIKING CREW

2016 YAMAHA WOLVERINE

1673hrs, inner mudflaps, adjust seat & steering wheel, On Demand AWD, 2WD/Turf, tilt deck, front & rear LED lights.

$13,995 2016 POLARIS RANGER 570 HD

Good cond SIX seater, 14504kms, high lifter kit, power steer, roof, tip down front screen, Ultramatic trans, On Command 2WD/4WD & diff lock, engine braking.

R Spec, 20588kms, 1 beef farmer, new tyres, roof, glass screen & wiper, 2wd/4wd & diff lock, full engine braking, hi/lo ratios, auto trans, Fuel inj, power steer, fact wty 19/4/19.

Super tidy for age, one own/op, 2wd/Awd, downhill descent, two seater, handbrake, hi/lo cvt auto trans, roof, screen, wiper, rear window, 20,143kms.

$15,995

$13,995

$11,495

2017 POLARIS RANGER 900 XP

2017 POLARIS RANGER 1000 XP EPS, 1 dry stock owner, Factory Wty til 13/03/2019, winch, side mirrors, mud flaps, glass screen & wiper, roof, Swamp Fox Plus tyres, 13358 kms, ADC mode, Hi/lo ratio, hand brake.

2016 POLARIS RANGER 570 HD

Tidy cond, 1 drystock own/op, 14372kms, roof, screen & wiper, rear screen, handbrake, CVT belt drive, Hi/Lo, Turf mode/2wd/AWD & ADC modes, tilt tray.

$13,995

$15,995

$10,995

EPS, just 9320kms, 684hrs, EFI engine, On Demand True AWD, 2WD & Turf modes, 900KG tow capacity, independent susp, tilt deck, adjust seat & steering wheel.

All used stock is fully serviced. Buy with confidence from a LMVD

ASK US FOR A CUSTOMISED, DETAILED QUOTE TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS. Finance available on all stock subject to credit approval. Application and administration fees payable and T & Cs apply.

TAUMARUNUI: 07 895 7994 | OTOROHANGA: 07 873 8196 A/Hrs Joel Rees 027 279 5425 or Jette Josiah 027 446 4849 For your local Bike Servicing call Harry Sircombe 027 499 2051


MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

September 2018

11

HORTICULTURE Choosing your crop species

Read the paper online farminglifestyles.co.nz

Deciding which plant species and cultivar to plant is an important decision and plays an essential role in maximising the life of a pasture. The amount of feed available for dairy cows, in turn, affects the amount of profit from every hectare of pasture sown so is an integral element of farming life. The best results come from matching the cultivars you choose to the farm system, climate, soils and pests. There is a range of available options for pastures and each come with their strengths and weaknesses. Chicory is a popular staple plant that can be incorporated into a rotational grazing system through its active growing months. The plant is a shortlived leafy herb with high feed value. Maize crop is a vital crop for many New Zealand dairy farmers and represents a significant investment in time and resources. Fodder beet is another option and is a root crop with a high-yield potential. Kale has a deep root system and is normally used as a winter feed crop. Due to its deeper roots — it is very resilient through a drought so good for the drier parts of the country. Animals find plantain very palatable, which is a huge advantage. This crop establishes rapidly, is pest tolerant and has a high mineral content to enhance milk production. Swedes are a great winter feed crop as they have a low tolerance to

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NEW ZEALAND LTD

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MATT BROWN PH: 0800 HYDRO 1 • MOB: 021 243 7741 www.hydrologic.co.nz

drought and perform best in cooler, moist environments. Their disadvantage is that they do not like waterlogging. Turnips are a fast-maturing single-graze crop and are often used to bridge the summer feed gap and maintain milk production. Keeping these elements in

mind, you will be sure to find a crop that will suit your situation and ensure the best return.

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For competitive quotes and advice you can trust

www.guardiantreeservices.co.nz

DELIVERIES

Bring a TRAILER, HIRE one of ours, or we can DELIVER up to 2 bulk products in 1 delivery! FREE DELIVERY TO P.N & LINTON For loads 2m3 or more

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06 354 6990

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Pruning can be fun... with the right tools. Ask us about the new Marlin adjustable saw.

1) Adjustable cutting head with many different orientations.

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2) Blade with a teeth profile designed for expulsion of sawdust. 3) Ergonomic Handle.

• Local honey & bee products • Flowering trees and shrubs to plant for bees on your farm / lifestyle block

Olive Grove and Orchard Equipment

Visit our shop at 1313 Kimbolton Rd, Cheltenham. Only 6 minutes from Feilding. Or visit us online at www.downunderhoney.co.nz

Phone: 09 945 0890 Email: info@grovesupply.co.nz Web: grovesupply.co.nz

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12

September 2018

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

SPOTLIGHT ON

FEILDING

ADVERTORIAL

Local conditions are key This spring has seen the team at Harrisons are run off their feet — the weather has been fantastic for growth and the planting season is in full swing. Harrisons has a well-deserved reputation as the place to go for your garden needs. A huge range of trees, shrubs, roses and garden essentials are available at their two stores — at Pekapeka (just north of Waikanae) and the northern end of Feilding just off Kimbolton Road. The team at Harrisons are familiar with the local conditions and are eager to share their knowledge with their customers. They are committed to ensuring your garden efforts reap rewards — flowers, fruits and fragrance are provided with information and inspiration. At Harrisons, they know their plants because they grow their plants. Producing

a large range from their five-acre nursery in Waikanae means that you are buying plants that are grown and acclimatised to this area. It also saves on freight costs — which equals better quality and value for their customers. Harrisons are also direct importers of a terrific range of pots and planters. Container gardening is now a major part of gardening as sections have become smaller. Many of the pots at Harrisons are European inspired and manufactured to withstand extremes of weather — you can expect them to last for generations. The Garden Independents Network is a network of 12 of the leading independent garden centres from

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around NZ — and Harrisons are proud to be a founding member. The group regularly meets to compare notes, share information and work with suppliers to secure and develop products that are exclusive to the group. The iCan range of branded products is one such innovation. Look for iCan branded garden gloves, vegetable seeds, garden tools, fertiliser and plants — it is a trusted brand to seek out and enjoy with a focus always on performance and value. Spring is seed sowing season, and they recommend the iCan vegetable range, which has been selected and trialled specifically for superior taste, improved pest and disease resistance

and for increased vigour and yield — everything that home gardeners appreciate. Many are also compact and faster maturing, which allows a larger range to be grown in less space. Growing from seed is satisfying and enjoyable and a great activity to share with your children or grandchildren. With more than 40 years of trading under the same family ownership Harrisons has assembled a terrific team of friendly knowledgeable people who enjoy what they do — making customers happy. Pop on into one of their stores soon and experience the difference that they can bring to your garden.

MOBILE ON FARM REPAIRS Old & New, Working in your area. Rangitikiei, Marton, Taihape, Pahiatua, Hunterville, Dannevirke.

Offering competitive rates, work guaranteed. Robin & Phillip Cockery

Feilding Tractors Ltd

06 323 1080 | A/H 06 323 0456 133 South St, Feilding

· Superior Taste · Improved Pest and Disease resistance · Increased Vigour and Yield We are as proud as punch of this range and excited to share them with you. Grow only the best. We recommend ican Seeds for superior results.

MAHINDRA PIK-UP MAKE MOLEHILLS, OUT OF MOUNTAINS.

For the farm, the mountain or the trade.

Norfolk Cresent, Feilding Phone (06) 323 7855 Fax (06) 323-4087 Free Phone 0508 HARRISONS 427 747

The Mahindra Pik-Up was designed to tackle some of the toughest environments in the world. It comes equipped with Eaton’s bullet-proof mechanical locking differential system that reacts to the wheel speed differences and automatically locks the rear axle so you can keep going non-stop no matter what the terrain.

Mahindra PIKUP | Make molehills, out of mountains 5 Gladstone St, Feilding | 06 323 4858

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22,600+ORC

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| www.agtorquemanawatu.nz


MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2018

SPOTLIGHT ON

13

FEILDING

A rural history The first township on the Manchester block, Fielding was laid out in 1874 and was developed by the London-based Emigrant and Colonist’s Aid Corporation. It was sited in a natural clearing and named after Colonel William Feilding. A director of the corporation, he had come to New Zealand and bought the land. At that time, streets were named after other corporation personnel or New Zealand political figures. In the early twentieth century Feilding had the most important saleyards in the lower North Island. As early as 1902 — 42,000 sheep were yarded there and at one point the freezing works employed 2,500 people – about half the labour force. Although the freezing works have declined — the town provides other rural-related employment and many rural businesses once sited on Rangitikei Street in Palmerston North now have their offices in Feilding and many Feilding residents work in Palmerston North. Feilding’s population reached 4,500 by 1921 and Feilding Agricultural High School was established in the same year. Marking the importance of farming in the community, New Zealand’s first Young Farmers Club was started in 1927. Both dairy farming and hill

Scotts

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country sheep farming were uncertain in the 1920s to 1940s — however, the town thrived again after the Second World War. There are two historic meeting houses in the area. Manaiahu and Kauwhata, are at Aorangi and Te Arakura. Both belong to Ngati Kauwhata and have close links to Ngati Raukawa. The reserve at Mt Lees consists of gardens and bush tracks and was developed over 70 years and is still a popular spot for many locals and visitors to frequent.

Feilding has a reputation for being one of the most well-tended and attractive towns in the lower North Island and the Manfeild car racing track attracts crowds on race days, while the town is now home to many farm retirees.

Ph: 06 323 7374 | Fax: 06 323 0398 A/H: Stuart - 027 441 7035 or David - 027 757 0020 Email: scottspumpservice@xtra.co.nz www.scottspumps.co.nz

23 Manchester Street, Feilding

DARRAGHS ENROLMENTS OPEN

FEILDING

OPEN 7 DAYS

• Strong and durable

please call for your personal tour.

• Less than half the cost of glass

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• 15% more heat retention at night than glass • Lightweight, easily moved

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• All year growing season

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299

A powerful hammer drill and impact driver kit for the serious DIY'er.

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203 Awahuri Rd, Feilding 4775 Ph. 06 323 9423 Mob: 027 254 4122, E: tunnels@xtra.co.nz W: www.tunnellhouses.co.nz

Feilding Intermediate 95 East Street, Feilding 06 323 6528 www.feildingintermediate.school.nz

• 18 Volt 13mm single sleeve keyless chuck Hammer Drill Driver • 2 speed transmission • 22-position adjustable torque control • 18 Volt ¼” keyless hex Impact Driver, with one handed fitment • Compact, lightweight design for use in confined spaces • Adjustable torque control for consistent screw driving

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Post peelings supplied and delivered

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44 KIMBOLTON RD, FEILDING

Please call Bevan on 027 405 7000

06 323 4054 www.mitre10.co.nz

STANDOFF PADS • CALF SHEDS • HERD HOMES • BARNS • LANDSCAPING


14

September 2018

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

SPOTLIGHT ON

FEILDING

A natural experience In the heart of Manawatu, Mt Lees Reserve is situated at 199 Ngaio Road and is a unique experience set in a beautiful scenic rural setting offering visitors and guests a place to relax and soak up nature in a tranquil setting. Developing Mount Lees was a lifelong project for Ormond Wilson, who became one of New Zealand’s leading left-wing intellectuals and was a member of the first Labour government and a Labour MP from 1935–1938 and again from 1946–1949. He also was an executive in the BBC and for many years chairman of the Historic Places Trust. He ceased farming in 1972 and gifted the homestead and bush gully to the Crown as a public reserve. In 1979,

he received the CMG for services to the community. Palmerston North City Council administered the property until around 1989 when the Manawatu District Council took over responsibility. Keen to carry on Ormond’s vision, the council has undertaken an extensive planting programme of its own on the 29.5ha reserve. The homestead Ormond built provides comfortable accommodation, beautiful gardens, bushwalking, morning and

• Supply & Installation of Spouting • Repairs or Full Replacement • Klass and Taylor Guttering Refurbishment • Insurance Claims • Maintenance • Gutter Cleaning & Unblocking • Down Pipe Installation

Brian Brock Ph: 027 453 8677 | Email: brock3@xtra.co.nz 9 Wallace Place, Hokowhitu, Palmerston North

afternoon teas, picnics, social functions and weddings for people wanting a historical experience or a simple ‘escape’ from a busy life. As the seasons change, Mount Lees presents many different faces and visitors will find a wide selection of native and exotic trees and shrubs on site. Autumn is spectacular as the reserve’s exotics prepare to shed their foliage. Spring offers a magnificent display of magnolia flowers, blossom and carpets of forget-me-knots and Mount Lees is renowned for its daffodils — which are at their best in September/October. October/November is the best time to see the primulas, honesty, cinerarias and the dove trees in flower, whilst in December the giant Himalayan lily flower is at its perfumed best. In January/ February the reserve is filled with flowering blue and white agapanthus. The reserve bush is rich in bird life including native birds such as kereru —

wood pigeon, morepork, grey warblers, fantails, tuis, bellbirds, wax eyes and kingfisher. It is close to the Rangitikei river for great trout fishing or for those with golf in mind; it’s only a short drive to four rural golf courses. The summer house is available for group functions and has two small outbuildings and a kitchen. Bookings are essential, and group parties such as gardening and horticultural clubs, education parties, conference tours, weddings and members of the New Zealand Motor Caravan Association are invited to contact Mount Lees for further information. Mount Lees is open to the public seven days a week from 9am to 5pm. No dogs are allowed on the reserve. Parking, picnic areas, toilets, children’s play areas and a summer house are on-site, and there is no charge, but donations are gratefully accepted.

Is it time to replace YOUR SPLIT SYSTEM? Is it time to replace... Excessive noise

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Unusually high energy costs

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Uneven cooling/heating

There’s no denying that having an air conditioner makes life so much more comfortable when you’re battling the climate. Even in the hottest days of summer and the coldest days of winter, having a reliable unit can ensure that you’re comfortable all year round.

However, there comes a time when your old trusty air conditioner just doesn’t perform as well as it once did. Excessive noise, costly repairs, unusually high energy costs and uneven cooling/heating are some signs that your air conditioning unit might be on the way out.

APB ELECTRICAL 2008 LTD ALL ELECTRICAL AND REFRIGERATION NEEDS Office/showroom – 7 Gladstone St, Feilding

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0800 272 363 www.apbelectrical.co.nz e: sales@apbelectrical.co.nz

Satisfaction Guaranteed


MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2018

SPOTLIGHT ON

15

FEILDING

A good day out The Feilding area has many activities to offer locals and travellers alike, including agricultural displays, art galleries, clock museum, sale yards and the railway museum. The Coach House Museum at 121 South Street, takes you back to the 1800s with displays of horse-drawn gigs and traps, John Deere machinery, vintage tractors and information on the early settlers shared by volunteer hosts. Open seven days from 10am–4pm. The Feilding Farmers’ Market is held in the town square on Fridays from 9am– 1.30pm with room to see everything on sale. There is a wide variety of stalls including fresh flowers, locally-grown fresh produce, bakery goods and plants. The Feilding Sale Yards at 18 Manchester Street is an opportunity to experience the yards in action and have a guided tour on Fridays at 11am. Anyone with a rural interest can get an overview of where and how New Zealand stock is sold in one of the biggest sale yards in the country. People who enjoy seeing something different will see auctioneers perform on sale days. Colyton Clocks at Chimers Farm on Colyton Road is home to the largest

collection of clocks, watches and timepieces in the Southern Hemisphere from around the world. Housed in a 100-year-old building set in beautiful rural surroundings they are open Saturday and Sunday from 10am–4pm and alternative times by arrangement. For those interested in art, the Feilding and District Art Centre offers everything from arts and craft workshops to locally created gifts for sale. The centre has weekly painting, colouring and textile groups and art classes available for children. Open Monday to Saturday 10am–4pm and Sundays 1pm–4pm. Located at 104 Manchester Street, Feilding. The Feilding and District Steam Rail Museum at the railway yard, corner of Gladstone and Haybittle Streets, is a working museum with displays including the restored WAB794, F163 and X442 engines and the restoration process on five carriages, sleeping car and dining cars, and a working turntable and gantry.

FEELS LIKE

Catalogue specials out now

Special steam train trips run around the Manawatu. Open Saturday 9am–3pm, other times by arrangement admission is by donation. For those interested in nature, Awahuri/Kitchener Park, located at Kawakawa Road, Feilding, is one of the few remaining areas of the original semi-swamp podocarp forest and has collections of kahikatea, matai and

totara. The reserve has strong historic botanical significance containing some rare and threatened plant species, as well as strong landscape character and native flora and fauna. Take the boardwalk through the swampy areas or start at Kowhai park on South Street and follow the off-road track to Kitchener Park. Dogs on a leash are permitted.

OFFERING ALL LEVELS OF AGED CARE IN ONE CENTRE

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Hardflooring from $79 per sqm Textured wool carpet from $45 per sqm FLOORINGXTRA.CO.NZ FLOORING XTRA FEILDING 7 MACARTHUR ST | 06 323 3193

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6 Monmouth Street, Feilding, will provide all options of care:

For all enquires, contact Virginia Dyall–Kalidas Apartments Available

Work (06) 323 5050 • Email gm@ranfurlyrcc.co.nz Mobile 021 713 939 • www.ranfurlyrcc.co.nz

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POWER Switched on power supplies

Feilding/Palmerston North/Rongotea Ph 06 323 3926 • www.laserelectrical.co.nz • Ph 06 329 7870


16

September 2018

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

CROP & PASTURE PREP ADVERTORIAL

One stop for agriculture and building services Davis Contracting Levin Ltd is a family-run business providing agricultural contracting and building services in the Horowhenua region for the past 15 years. The company has five employees in the agricultural side of the business and two qualified mechanics, Clive and Craig, keeping the gear in working order. The workshop also brings in outside mechanical work so if you need your tractor or implements serviced Clive will take care of this. During the busy harvesting season, the workforce increases to around eight and the agricultural administration is undertaken by Mary Davis. The team is gearing up for cultivation time, and the firm has the gear to plough, power harrow, roll, direct drill and air seed your paddocks.

Hay and baleage are the mainstays of the agricultural work with Gary producing round bales with his McHale baler and Craig operating both a New Holland D1010 square baler and for the smaller blocks — a New Holland D1000 square baler. Conventional baling is also on offer, but many lifestylers are changing to the square six bale equivalents that the D1000 baler provides. We run two Goweil individual wrappers and a Webbline tube wrapper and this season have added a McHale Fusion 2 combi baler and wrapper to the fleet.

P.W. WRIGHT CONTRACTING LTD Farm Drainage The “Wright” way

SPECIALISING IN CLAY FIELD TILES • Bulldozing • Tile Repair Work • Water Jetting • Tile Drains

Davis Contracting run four Deutz-Fahr tractors, with one having GPS providing accurate seeding and placement of fertiliser. Yes — we can fertilise your paddocks as a six-tonne Sam spreader is part of the fleet. The business runs a New Holland tractor with a long reach mower for mulching hedges — this work is usually done after the busy harvesting season. The company has a 2.6-tonne digger with a hole borer unit for small block work and for drain cleaning the 12-tonne Komatsu digger fits the bill. Two trucks, a Foden and Mack are used for cartage of metal, baleage and stock. Depending on the growing season, the company usually holds a stock of baleage and hay that farmers can source and have delivered during the winter months. The diggers and trucks are utilised in the building side of the business, which is booming at present, given

• Trenching • Mole Draining • Excavating • Farm Track, Dams & Earthmoving

FARMERS Do you have:

Servicing the Rangitikei , Whanganui and the Manawatu region for over 58 years.

06 327 7384 • 027 444 8829

• Ground suitable for hay silage (October to March) • Lease or share crop options • Plus a comprehensive baling; cultivating and cartage service (wrapping, baling: round, square & conventional) and direct drilling

Offer:

BRUCE GORDON

CONTRACTING LTD

PHONE DEAN: 027 445 8364 EMAIL: arnottag@gmail.com

0800 CROP IT (0800 276 748)

D C

AVIS ONTRACTING

FULL BALAGE & HAY SERVICE PLOUGHING AND CULTIVATION

the upsurge of building activity in the Horowhenua area. Director, Gary Davis runs both the building and contracting operation with wife Lindsey taking care of the building administration. The company has nine employees on the building side of the business and specialise in new houses, light commercial work and farm buildings. If you need a new calf shed or implement shed — these can be done at an affordable price. Davis Contracting can provide a design and build package for your new residence, and Lindsey works closely with the client to ensure the finished product is their dream home. For all your agricultural or building requirements contact Gary on 021 914 371 or telephone the office 06 368 7446 or workshop on 06 367 0448. We look forward to doing business with you.

LEVIN LTD

Agricultural & Building Contractors

BRUCE GORDON (06) 327 6094 • (0274) 427 462

• Seed Drilling • Fertiliser Spreading • Hay & Baleage • Hedgecutting • Cartage • Ploughing & Cultivation • Tractor Mechanical Services • Mowing • Cartage • Direct Drilling • Tube or Individual Wrapping

MAIZE PLANTING AND ROLLER DRILLING DIGGER HIRE TRUCK, TRACTOR AND TRAILER HIRE For all your agricultural & building requirements contact Gary 021 914 371 • Full Build Packages • Residential alterations • Implement Sheds • Light Commercial


MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2018

C RO P & PA S T U R E P R E P

17

Bug biocontrol approval To help protect New Zealand crops a biocontrol agent has been added to the mix to control brown marmorated stink bug if it ever gets into the country. The Environmental Protection Authority has formally agreed to allow the release of a tiny Samurai wasp into New Zealand, in the event of a brown marmorated stink bug incursion. BMSB Council chair, Alan Pollard, applauded the outcome as a major milestone against one of the greatest threats to New Zealand industry and urban communities. “The industry greatly appreciates the positive decision and acknowledges the consideration given by the EPA to the significant number of submissions made on the application. This is a significant step towards preparing for a major biosecurity risk, which is getting greater by the day with increasing trade and tourism crossing our borders,” he said. The Samurai wasp is the size of a poppy seed and completely harmless to humans and animals, but a natural enemy of BMSB; the female wasp lays her eggs inside those of the stink bug, killing the larvae in the process. Studies overseas have shown that the wasp can destroy more than 70 per cent of the eggs in a stink bug egg mass. “The stink bug could cause hundreds of millions of dollars of losses for our industry, as well as seriously damaging quality of life for all New Zealanders.

With the heightened awareness of biosecurity risk, our industry is more aware than ever that we cannot afford to be, and never will be, complacent. “Approving the release of Samurai as a biocontrol is an excellent step — but there is more work to do before the wasp is ready to be used as a tool. It’s not the silver bullet, and a stink bug incursion would require a multifaceted approach. “We have seen overseas growers rely on high levels of insecticide as the primary control for BMSB and, while this wasp provides the opportunity to reduce our dependence on chemicals, a full response will require every weapon in our armoury.” BMSB feeds on a huge range of arable and horticultural crops including wheat, maize, peas and beans. An NZIER report, commissioned by the Samurai Wasp Steering Group, has estimated that gross domestic product would fall by between $1.8 billion and $3.6 billion by 2038 if BMSB became established. It also estimated the horticulture export value could fall by between $2 billion and $4.2 billion. Permission to release the wasp will be subject to a number of strict controls that will dictate when, where, and by whom it can be released.

Alan Pollard, BMSB Council chair

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September 2018

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

C RO P & PA S T U R E P R E P

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Wet weather can leave a short period of time to accomplish a host of tasks, and for many people, the focus is on producing a bountiful crop of maize or green pasture to ensure there is enough feed for their animals. Often hiring a local contractor is a good option as they know the processes and can get the job accomplished in a relatively short time frame, and have the relevant machinery. It will allow you to focus on other important tasks. If you are doing the work yourself, ensure that all your equipment is serviced and ready for productivity. Preparation for undersowing on cattle farms, or getting ready to cultivate maize and bringing in silage for the upcoming season all require reliable equipment to save precious time and inconvenience if equipment breaks down. Be aware that if the soil is damp or wet, the machinery used for aeration and harrowing, to turn the soil and prepare it for a fresh crop can cause compacting so it is best left until the ground dries out enough to take the weight of the equipment. Northland is known to have hard to access pastureland and paddocks, even

for the big trucks, which deliver fertiliser. Smaller mini spreaders have become popular as they are lighter on the ground and able to get to more inconvenient places. Helicopter and fixed-wing aerial applicators are also often used to deliver fertiliser onto the necessary areas. Often contractors use the latest technology with GPS systems meaning

less wastage of product being sown and environmentally friendly placement. Remember, where possible, supporting friends and neighbours are often part of the farming lifestyle and getting together to accomplish certain tasks not only make specific jobs easier but also expands your knowledge base and sense of accomplishment.

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DAIRY

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M Bovis farms share similar soils by David Law — Forward Farming

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The strongest evidence yet that Mycoplasma bovis does not flourish in well-balanced soil conditions has been confirmed at the farms that first tested positive for the disease. Farms belonging to the Van Leeuwen Dairy Group, which comprised 15,000 cows on a 4,133ha milking platform in South Canterbury, first tested positive for M bovis in July 2017, resulting in the culling of around 4,000 cows. The group was given the go-ahead to restock the affected farms after the compulsory stand-down period of 60 days but was warned by biological farming consultant David Law if the conditions in which the disease thrived were not rectified, it could reoccur. More than 100 soil tests were carried out across all van Leeuwen farms by Don Hart of Top Soils, and Law’s hypothesis was confirmed. “We found increasing evidence that the farms that had tested positive for M bovis all had the same characteristic — a low-pH soil, which is typically an imbalanced, minerally-depleted soil,” Law says. “In contrast, the soil tests taken on the farms clear of the disease showed a healthy pH of 6.3 — soil conditions M bovis doesn’t like. “This demonstrated a correlation between M bovis being present in imbalanced soils, and absent in healthy soils. The disease doesn’t live in the soil per se, but, as an anaerobic bacterium, it generally only thrives in low-pH farm conditions.” As a result, the van Leeuwens have implemented short-and-long-term plans to rebalance the conditions on the affected farms to reduce the likelihood of M bovis returning. Law says his recommendations to Ministry for Primary Industries have not

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been actioned, leaving farmers in fear with no solution. Aad van Leeuwen agrees that MPI should have been more open-minded in their approach to finding a solution for farmers. Law says with the valuable information gathered from Van Leeuwen Dairy Group, those involved in the wider working team are better able to help farmers

directly rather than going through the government. “We welcome farmers to invite us to speak at discussion groups, where we can look at scenarios causing farmers anxiety, such as grazing young stock off-farm,” he says. “There are things farmers can do right now to greatly reduce the risk of M bovis flourishing on their farm; we are confident we can help.”

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September 2018

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

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Over the past year, New Zealand’s beef cattle herd increased by 1.9 per cent, while the decline in the sheep flock was slowed by a lift in hoggets as farmers responded positively to strong prices and good grass growth leading into winter. According to Beef + Lamb New Zealand, the annual stock number survey conducted by B+LNZ’s Economic Service also shows 3.7 million beef cattle — with beef production continuing to grow. The largest contributor to the increase in the number of beef cattle was a lift in weaner cattle in MarlboroughCanterbury, which was driven by younger cattle being retained by beef breeders. The research shows the impact of Mycoplasma bovis on sheep and beef farms has been mixed. B+LNZ Economic Service chief economist, Andrew Burtt, says the

analysis reveals a younger ewe flock as farmers retain more hoggets for future production. The number of breeding ewes fell in all regions of New Zealand — and by 2.1 per cent overall. “The number of breeding ewes decreased 3.5 per cent to 8.3 million in the North Island, while South Island numbers dropped 0.8 per cent to 9.0 million. The decrease largely reflects farmers taking advantage of strong prices for mutton. There was also a preference — particularly in the older farmer demographic — towards less labour intensive livestock options to sheep.” B+LNZ Economic Service chief economist, Andrew Burtt

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The national hogget flock is up on last year. “Hogget numbers increased 2.5 per cent to 9.1 million, largely from Marlborough-Canterbury where ewe hoggets were retained to replenish declining ewe flocks, and trade lamb purchases from Southland due to dry summer conditions. Mr Burtt says ewes were in good condition at mating and going into winter due to feed availability.

“However, early pregnancy scanning of ewes fell short of farmer expectations, which was high due to pasture levels during mating.” The lamb crop is expected to be down 3.8 per cent to 22.8 million. It follows a record lambing percentage the previous season and a smaller breeding ewe flock — but moderated by a lift in lambs from hoggets mated.

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MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2018

LIVESTOCK

21

ADVERTORIAL

Paparata Elite Romney: focussed on building FE tolerance by Trevor Johnson, Owner/Director

Extract from the Beef and Lamb resource book — Facing Up to Facial Eczema’. ‘The liver damage associated with FE results in production losses that are much greater than may first appear. Even when no symptoms are visible, FE can reduce lifetime productivity by up to 25 per cent. ‘Breeding for increased tolerance to FE should be your first line of defence.’ Why lifting FE tolerance is a smart idea for all sheep farmers. Lifting the FE tolerance in your sheep is essential for farmers farming in an eczema prone area — a live sheep is always going to outperform a dead one. If you do not farm in an FE prone area look out — the climate is warming, and eczema is creeping down the country. Buying rams with FE tolerance could protect your flock in the future. If you think you will never be threatened by FE then it also makes sense to lift flock tolerance levels. You have a larger market when selling store. Those farmers farming in an FE prone area will not buy lambs that do not have FE tolerance. You have more buyers. Paparata FE tolerance building programme. In 1999 after some heavy sheep losses earlier in the decade when FE turned up in the King Country, Paparata

decided to lift the FE tolerance levels of the Paparata ewe flock. From 1999 all outside sires used over the recorded flock — needed to have been FE tolerance tested at a high level. In the same year, a testing programme was begun on the high ranking home bred rams to check their tolerance levels. Those rams showing the highest tolerance levels are used over the recorded flock. The dose rate has moved up each year as the flock tolerance levels moved up although this took time as can be seen in the graph. I would like to point out — only tested rams are used over the recorded flock, and this has been the practice for the last 19 years. We will test at .48 this year which is getting up there given that the high tolerance breeders test at .5 and .6. It has taken 19 years to get Paparata up to this level. Do you want to build FE tolerance levels in your flock? Good questions to ask a ram breeder. How long have you been testing for FE? It needs to be more than 10 years. Are all your sire rams FE tolerance tested? They should be. What level do you test at?

Paparata Stud Manager, Seymour Spence

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22

September 2018

MANAWATU FARMING LIFESTYLES

WHEELS

Spring chopping spree by Andy Bryenton

There are some things, which America does better — and big horsepower, internal combustion machines fall into that category for many of us. Classics like the Mustang, the Corvette, the Challenger — and of course, another ‘muscle’ machine from 1969 — the Grasshopper mower. The team at the Moundridge, Kansas headquarters of this global company have been working on the best designs to cover a lot of turf with smooth efficiency since the days when bell bottoms were a fashion choice. Needless to say, there’s been a lot of change over the decades, culminating in a range of lawn care machines — which

are truly second to none when it comes to power and solid build quality. It matters here in New Zealand because of the hard work we expect out of a mower. It is doubly true of those of us who have a large, lifestyle block sized area to take care of. The obvious appeal of a big zero-turn machine is that it is easy to manoeuvre and that it

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Primary sector yields opportunities by Ian McKelvie MP for Rangitikei

The past 12 months have been relatively kind to rural New Zealand with prices in almost all sectors at very good levels with lamb, venison and kiwi fruit being stand-out performers. Dairy, beef and forestry are also performing very well as is reflected in the export receipts. It means an encouraging outlook for the next year that is positive for our provincial towns and all businesses servicing our agri-sector. The other great positive about this comparative buoyancy is that it enables farmers to bring maintenance up to date and get on with managing the environmental challenges that we face, which frankly is difficult to do without positive income. The management of the Mycoplasma bovis outbreak is settling down, and MPI

appears to have it in about as good a space as could be expected and the fact that there have been no unpredicted outbreaks of the disease to date is very encouraging for the cattle industry in New Zealand. By unpredicted outbreaks, I mean the NAIT system has enabled MPI to trace all outbreaks, including those in the beef sector, back to the source. The elimination of this debilitating disease is a very big and expensive challenge for the cattle industry — but is also hugely

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important and will be worth every bit of the pain if it can be achieved. Fonterra has been in the news lately, and I most certainly don’t believe it is the role of unqualified politicians to attack business in any form — our role is to provide the environment for business to thrive and succeed and let the shareholders get on with running their company for the better. We must remember we are a small country, thousands of miles from anywhere and the world doesn’t owe us a living, but they will pick off the best bits of us if we are not very careful. We also need to have very strong New Zealand-owned and based entities in the agricultural sector to ensure we don’t become the prey of predatory international providers. Ian McKelvie’s Rangitikei electorate extends from Taumarunui in the north to Shannon in the south.

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