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Brothers among finalists
Entries were well up on previous years at the recent Ohingaiti Tux Yarding Challenge and Trans-Tasman trial.
With more than 250 dogs entered, the new event secretary Phillippa Lambourn from Mangamahu had a busy couple of days keeping everything running to schedule.
Wanganui Centre publicity officer Brenda O’Leary said ewe hoggets were supplied by the Henderson family for the duration of the competition held at the Ohingaiti Sports Domain.
“Competitors appreciated that shearing was delayed until after the trial.”
Rob O’Sullivan from Gisborne judged the Tux trial, and two Wanganui Centre competitors made the final. Merv Williams from Raetihi competed with Brim and Foil, and Gavin Drake with his dog, Baldy. Gavin was the eventual clear-cut winner with 97 points. This combination was just a few points ahead of Peter Williams with Guide from Hawke’s Bay, who placed second.
The top three placegetters, Gavin Drake with Baldy, Peter Williams with Guide and Waikato-based Leo Jecentho with Tess, go through to the Tux North Island finals. Peter and Guide are previous winners at Ohingaiti.
The two Williams brothers, Merv with Brim and Foil, and Peter with Guide and Rodger, made the finals with their dogs.
“It is very rare for two brothers to achieve this with two dogs each.,” said Brenda.
Anita Lamb with her dog Ziva from Te Kuiti will also go through to the maiden final.
The Trans-Tasman trial, held in conjunction with the Tux event, had a different judge each day. David Shield from Dannevirke judged the first day, followed by Brenda O’Leary from Fordell judging on the Friday, and Gavin Drake of Hunterville on the final day of competition.
Guy Peacock and Scrap won the first day of the Trans-Tasman trial. The following day’s competition saw Leo Jecentho with Zap take out the top spot and Bob Bruce with Abbo came first on the final day.
Brenda said a Julie Grieg print was presented to Kathryn Oliver from Raetihi in recognition of her 12 years of service as trial secretary. Trial convenor Wayne Falkner was pleased with the team and how they kept the event flowing.
“Emma Brennan did an absolutely super job feeding everyone over the three days with a never-ending array of cakes and savouries. Her husband Josh manned the barbecue at lunchtime, providing some very tasty meat treats,” Brenda said.
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From left: Two brothers Merv and Peter Williams qualified for the Tux North Island finals with two dogs each
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TBY DENISE GUNN
The purchase of a 191ha farm in Linton three years ago has added value to Terawhiti Station’s farming operation.
erawhiti Station is one of New Zealand’s oldest and largest sheep and cattle stations. Located on Wellington’s rugged south coast, Terawhiti Station is made up of three properties; Terawhiti Farming Company Limited, Te Kamaru Station Limited and Te Marama.
Michael Grace is a director and major shareholder in all three companies.
“The property is still owned by the descendants of James and Hannah McMemamen,” he said.
Terawhiti Station is managed by Guy Parkinson, who also has a small shareholding in the business. He manages the day-to-day running of livestock and development of the 4,800ha property.
Guy also oversees the integration of the other complementary operations and income streams on the station and the finishing farm in Linton. His wife Carolyn helps out with major stock work when
required, and produces and helps plant 400–500 native seedlings each year.
The station currently runs 1,400 cattle, which includes 836 in-calf cows and 2,080 sheep, including 1,550 inlamb ewes. Ross Johnston is shepherd/ general. Up until 2009, Terawhiti hadn’t been farmed for several years and was run-down.
Guy said there were numerous challenges from no fencing or yards, scrub-covered land, poor soil fertility and pasture.
“All these issues were overcome relatively easily with hard work, money and time, and were all within our own control.”
Since Guy began managing the property, around 90km of new fencing has been completed, 2,000ha of gorse and other scrub weeds cleared, three sets of new yards built, the woolshed restored, and two existing yards upgraded.
Maintenance of the farm’s houses and other infrastructure has also been brought up to standard.
“In 15 years, we have transformed a completely abandoned farm into a successful and profitable land-based business with a triple bottom line. Stock performance and numbers have increased to satisfactory levels and the whole property is developed and maintained to a high level. In that time, we have upgraded feral and bought in sheep to a high performing Wiltshire flock, and wild cattle of about six breeds to a nice herd of predominantly Angus.”
Guy said as the country is hard with a poor farming climate, Angus were chosen as most suited to that environment.
“Also, the aim was to have a moderatesized fertile type of cow that gets a calf each year. Most of the bulls have come from Ranui Angus.”
From left: Michael Grace, and Guy and Carolyn Parkinson of Terawhiti Station
With no functioning shed or yards in 2009, and a challenging windy environment covered in sand and grit, Guy chose to upgrade the flock to selfshedding Wiltshires. Most of the station’s rams come from Morrison Farming.
Around 4,000 feral goats on the property are essential for weed and pasture control, with 400–600 sold each year to Kintyre Meats. Store sheep and cattle go to Feilding saleyards. All prime and culled stock are sent to CR Grace who supply Taylor Preston.
Following discussions in the 1990s with the former Electricity Corporation of New Zealand (ECNZ), a Meridian wind farm became operational on Terawhiti in 2009. Michael said Terawhiti was also a foundational property in the goal to return kiwi to Wellington’s rural hinterland.
The purchase of the Linton block, Emerald Fields, provides ideal finishing country for Terawhiti’s lambs and cattle instead of all youngstock sold as stores.
“To some extent, it safeguards our carrying of capital stock as the climate complements Terawhiti,” said Guy. “When the station is drying out, the finishing farm is taking lambs and young cattle. Emerald Fields is very well run by Luke for three days a week.”
The two-year plan is to continue working on Emerald Fields to reach its potential.
“Now we have got our sheep to the point where we don’t dock, dag, shear or dip, we will aim to market our surplus ewes and ewe lambs for other farmers to enjoy the benefits. We will also increase the number of sheep and reduce the cow numbers.”
Michael said finishing livestock has been another major milestone on the road to the station’s sustainable profitability.
Terawhiti Station was recently selected as Greater Wellington finalists by the New Zealand Farm Environment Trust (NZEFT).
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Luke Roberts is the part-time manager at Emerald Fields.
Shepherd/general Ross Johnston getting feral goats in on Terawhiti Station
Luke and Chelsea Roberts with Stevie and baby, Blake, on Emerald Fields
CAREER CHANGE
tHe rIGHt mOVe
by Denise Gunn
Swapping an automotive career for the dairy industry has reaped rewards for the 2024 manawatū Dairy manager of the Year Luke Ackerman.
The 37-year-old grew up on a dairy farm, helping his sharemilking parents out when needed. At that stage, he preferred to be out on the farm rather than in the cowshed. That all changed when he met his wife, Sarah.
“She was the actual farmer out of the two of us, and working with her helped my love for cows grow,” he said.
In 2021, after a 15-year career as a mechanic, Luke decided to return to his agricultural roots. He said starting a family was the reason behind the career change.
“I wanted our family to grow up on a farm and have the lifestyle I did as a farm kid. I didn’t want to be a dad that
realistically only spent time with my kids in the weekend.”
Luke’s mechanical background and understanding of machinery comes in handy on the farm.
“It means I can fix everything and not pay another bloke to,” he said.
For the past three seasons, Luke has worked for James and Debbie Stewart of Stewart Dairylands where he began as herd manager.
It was while working on Stewart Dairylands’ 180ha, 383-cow property at Hiwinui, Luke decided to enter the Manawatū Dairy Industry Awards. He saw it as an ideal opportunity to network
with like-minded people and grow his support network.
The first time entrant won the 2024 Manawatū Dairy Manager of the Year title and also picked up three merit awards.
“It was definitely nice to be rewarded with the win after hours and hours of work my wife and I put into my presentation for Manawatū Dairy Manager of the Year. I was up against a great group of guys and thought any one of them could have taken it out.”
Luke said his marriage is a strength of their dairying business.
“My wife Sarah and I work so well together, and I believe together we can do anything we set our minds to.”
Luke has continued to study, achieving the Primary ITO NZ Certificate in Agriculture and Dairy Farming Level Four. He’s been able to apply all this information to daily farming practices.
Initially, Luke found farming on a main highway challenging, but he turned it into a positive learning experience.
“I believe it has made me a better farmer. Everything was and had to be done to a high standard, as everyone driving past could be judging how you run and manage things, and keeping you on your toes.” He said the dairy lifestyle can be hard work some days, and there is always a challenge.
“Whether it be keeping somatic cell counts down, chasing milk production or
pasture management. It definitely keeps you on your toes.
“It’s also so rewarding being able to watch my kids’ eyes light up when they see cows or ride in the tractor. The friendly cows definitely help on those tough days.”
Calving is Luke’s favourite time of year on the farm. “You can see the benefits from the extra work you have put in paying off.”
Luke said he would like to see a change to carbon credits and a structure that benefits farmers and planning.
“It would help to be recognised for the nutrient interceptor beds around perennial plantings for mitigating leaching nitrates.
“The other thing that I would like to see is more alternative medicines being introduced and becoming more mainstream.”
This season, Luke, Sarah and their family have achieved one of their shortterm goals: moving on to a larger farm.
“We’ve moved on to a bigger, more challenging management role for this 24/25 season for the Gordon family.
In the long term, the couple would like to be 50/50 sharemilking within the next three to five years.
“We would have liked to have our cows fully paid off and purchase another investment property,” said Luke.
HOSTING RURAL EXCHANGE TRAINEES REWARDING
by Denise Gunn
Employing young people from all over the globe through Rural Exchange NZ (RENZ) has become a rewarding experience for dairy farmers Brent and Lisa Lyons.
The couple began farming in Northland in 1996, after Lisa completed an agricultural degree at Massey University. The following year, Brent and Lisa had their first experience with overseas workers, employing a neighbour’s brother from Canada.
Hosting international agricultural trainees continued when they took up a sharemilking position in Woodville nine years later. Since 2015, the couple has farmed their own 144ha (120ha effective) Tararua property, milking a herd of 320 cows. They love to travel around the world, and also share their way of life closer to home through hosting agricultural trainees.
Hosting exchange students through AFS intercultural programmes was part of Lisa’s family life while she was at high school. She went on an exchange to Chile in 1991, too. Two of Brent and Lisa’s children have also gone on student exchanges to Argentina and Costa Rica.
“As our children attended boarding schools, it wasn’t possible to be an AFS exchange host.
“So we opted to employ agricultural exchange students. It gave us a break from the farm and the opportunity for our children to learn more about other cultures and expand their world a little.”
Initially, Brent and Lisa began hosting agricultural students through
the International Agricultural Exchange Association (IAEA).
“We also hosted annually for a couple of weeks, agriculture students from Japan,” said Lisa.
“When IAEA stopped, we started hosting with Rural Exchange, which has been fantastic. We usually do this biannually, which allows us to travel every second year. From now on, we will be hosting every year.”
Rural Exchange New Zealand is owned and operated by dairy farmers, Daniel and Amanda Schat. The organisation works
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Brent and Lisa enjoy hosting international agricultural trainees on their farm
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Each RENZ trainee is required to have at least 12 months practical experience, along with other attributes, prior to applying. Hosts must provide accommodation, a safe and welcoming work environment, wages and assist trainees adapt to life in New Zealand. Since becoming involved with RENZ, Brent and Lisa have hosted three trainees. Their current trainee, Eva Seibl, is from Austria. Lisa said how well trainees adjust to New
Zealand farming systems, depends on the individual.
“Home sickness can be an issue, but our trainees live with us and the kids, around that family experience, so they get over this relatively quickly.
“As I have been an exchange student myself, I understand how different things here can be. If you check in regularly and understand that language can be an issue, it turns out very well. There are always challenges that you have, no matter who you employ. Kiwi slang and farming terminology can be difficult for trainees to assimilate,” she said.
Brent and Lisa have found keeping it simple, being patient and showing trainees examples helps to reduce any misunderstanding.
“Making contact with local Young Farmers, sporting groups and allowing the trainees to attend the RENZ organised events, gives them contacts, and makes the trainees feel less isolated.”
The Lyons continue to learn a lot about different cultures through hosting trainees. In most cases, they’ve also discovered how different farming
overseas is to their own farm. They now have many connections around the world and share in the milestones of their former trainees.
“All the trainees have worked hard, been on time and have been easy to have living with our family.
“We have got so much from the experience of hosting.
“It is such a great way to meet new people, and to give a young person a chance to enrich their lives is very rewarding.”
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Rural leadership scholarship launched
Beef + Lamb (B+LNZ) has announced the launch of the Rural Leadership Advancement Scholarship, which aims to support the next generation of leaders in the sheep and beef sector.
The industry body will sponsor two sheep and beef farmers to participate in the NZ Rural Leader’s Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme in 2025. Each successful candidate will be paired with a B+LNZ mentor relevant to their area of interest, with a tailored mentoring programme developed around them.
The scholarship is a key part of B+LNZ’s refocussed People & Capability workstream within its refreshed strategy to enhance and sustain on-farm productivity and profitability. A major focus is on growing on-farm leadership; essential for retaining talent and fostering positive workplace cultures.
Through this workstream, B+LNZ aims to boost retention by enhancing leadership, celebrating success, and ensuring farm teams thrive from day one to the end of year three; essential to creating a sustainable future for sheep and beef farming in New Zealand.
“This scholarship isn’t just about individual development; it’s also designed to benefit the wider sector. Recipients will share their project findings and experiences at a series of B+LNZ events, ensuring that the knowledge gained contributes to the growth and success of all our levy payers,” said B+LNZ national extension programme manager Olivia Weatherburn.
“Through this scholarship, B+LNZ wants to support and enable future
farming leaders to make a significant impact on the sheep and beef sector from their position on-farm.
“This scholarship offers farmers a unique chance to participate in the NZ Rural Leader’s Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme and develop a project that benefits their community and the wider industry.
“With support and mentorship from B+LNZ, these farmers will gain valuable leadership skills, build supporting networks and make a lasting impact.
“We are committed to nurturing leadership behind the farm gates to grow the rural leadership community, ensuring that our sector continues to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.
“The scholarship represents an incredible opportunity for those working every day on-farm that are looking to advance their leadership journey and contribute to the future of the sheep and beef sector.
“We encourage all eligible farmers to apply and take this important step in their professional development.”
Applicants can choose one of the two 2025 intakes to use the scholarship (January to July 2025 or June to November 2025). Scholarship applications close at 5pm on October 7 2024. To apply or for more information visit the B+LNZ website beeflambnz.com or email Olivia. Weatherburn@beeflambnz.com.
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Nutritional medicine for osteoarthritis (Part
two)
by John Arts, Abundant Health
While most develop OA symptoms from age 50, I was unlucky to have this in my thumbs from age 30.
I have hyperextensible thumb joints, meaning that I can move my thumbs at abnormal angles. The discomfort became quite severe in my 50s. Today, at 69, my thumbs are largely symptom-free. This is because I use high chondroitin supplements, combined with high-dose omega-3 and an anti-inflammatory diet. Feel free to request an email copy of my Osteoarthritis Programme.
I am regularly asked whether taking high chondroitin supplements can restore cartilage. Realistically, once cartilage is lost it cannot be replaced. The real question is whether joints affected by OA can become more comfortable. In most cases, joints degenerated by OA can become more comfortable. It is rare that we cannot get an improvement.
The initial dietary changes are mostly about fats and oils by removing high omega-6 seed oils and replacing these with virgin olive oil, while adding therapeutic levels of marine omega-3 from concentrated fish oil.
It is important to get professional advice before starting supplements.
There are several medications that should not be taken with some supplements. In most cases, I start with 1,600mg daily of high-quality chicken-derived chondroitin sulphate. This is by far the most important supplement ingredient — much more so than glucosamine. However, I also add 1,600mg of glucosamine and 400mg of the latest 100% water-soluble curcumin extracts.
Depending on the severity, we maintain these doses for 6–12 weeks with the first review at six weeks. Most people start to notice changes about then. For the next three months, we move the doses down to maintenance levels of 800mg of both chondroitin and glucosamine. In the past 25 years, I have seen thousands of people improve their joint health by adopting these measures.
John Arts (Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on 0800 423 559 or email john@ abundant.co.nz. Join his newsletter at abundant.co.nz.
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• Try Bettaflex for 3 months and see for yourself.
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• Chondroitin and glucosamine are building blocks of cartilage.
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• Research indicates that chondroitin is highly effective at 800mg daily.
John Arts comments:
“My latest Bettaflex formula includes BioSolve® bioavailable curcumin for faster results. The normal dose is 2 capsules daily but I recommend an initial higher dose for 1-3 bottles to saturate join tissue.”
Gateway to happiness
Smartgates can provide any property with the
security or look it needs with its gate crafting, accessory and maintenance services.
“Dedicated to customer service, our small team custom builds gates from our workshop in Feilding,” said co-owner Geoff Copplestone.
Geoff and Lesley Copplestone have been at Smartgates Manawatu since 2009. With more than 30 years of experience in the industry, they have a wealth of knowledge to draw from, whether clients want a gate for show or security. Before being in the gate industry, Geoff had experience in boat building and computer-assisted design.
options, with function and street appeal in mind
for any property, with its commercial and residential options.
RMA successor takes shape
by Andy Bryenton
Like the deposed Labour administration before it, the coalition government is proposing two laws to replace the Resource Management Act; however, they differ in fundamentals.
RMA reform head Chris Bishop says that with the repeal of the Labour government’s attempts to replace the RMA, and subsequent fixes and patches to see the nation through until a final replacement is done, two out of three stages of the coalition plan are in place.
While Labour proposed the Natural and Built Environments Act and a Strategic Planning Act, the coalition intends to enact one law for environmental protection and another to boost progress in urban environments.
“I enjoy working with customers to provide them with what they need and solving the issues. Gates lift the street appeal of a property.
“Having a gate changes how people use their property, offering the convenience of automation, security for the property and safety for children and animals.”
Customers can expect to go through the process with ease. The company also offers accessories like communication devices, security cameras, and solar power and smart features.
Using superior materials, the team can craft a functional, aesthetically pleasing entrance
“Working with steel, aluminium and timber, our in-house design service can come up with an individualised look or one of our standard styles to suit your property.”
“Covering the whole Manawatu region, we fully install gates and fencing, gate automation, access control solar panel system, CCTV and gate servicing. We provide a free on-site consultation to gauge what your needs are, and can manage your projects from start to finish.”
Located at 9a Haybittle Street, Feilding, the close-knit team is committed to providing customers with all their gate solutions. For more information, visit smartgates.co.nz or call Geoff and the team at 06 324 0048.
“Putting property rights at the centre of resource management means ditching rules that invite every Tom, Dick, and Harry to vexatiously object to peaceful use and development of private property. Rules should only restrict activity with material spillover effects on other people’s enjoyment of their own property or on the property rights of the wider natural environment,” says Infrastructure Minister Simon Court. Cabinet has agreed on the core design features of the new Resource Management laws. These include narrowing the focus of the RMA system to managing tangible effects on the
environment, simplifying council plans, promoting national standards for certainty across all civic and regional authorities, and importantly, shifting the focus away from consenting before activities can get underway, and towards compliance. There’s also an imperative to cut back on the litigation that impedes so much current development and building. The possibility has been tabled of a rapid, low-cost dispute resolution service for neighbours and property owners, and shorter, easier-to-understand legislation with fewer points to wrangle.
Smartgates offers customers a multitude of
Infrastructure Minister Simon Court admits that replacing the RMA is important and complicated work
Learning outdoors builds confidence
Each week, St Joseph’s School pupils venture to Almadale Reserve for a day
forts, while gaining confidence along the way.
Teacher Mark Searle began the initiative after being inspired to build pupils’ confidence outdoors in a forest environment. After a couple of training sessions took place, each teacher now takes their own class on a weekly trip to the reserve. The concept has become part of the school’s curriculum.
“The attendance rate is always high on forest days,” said Mark. “No one wants to miss out.”
To make the weekly trips possible, parent volunteers help out. The Manawatū District Council has also come on board creating a larger car parking area. Manawatū District Council community assets liaison James Adamson said the car parking was minimal when St Joseph’s School first began visiting the reserve.
“To help support their weekly visits, a larger clearing was made to enable safe parking for the cars required.”
Earlier this month Aaron Madden, a biodiversity specialist employed through Green by Nature, joined with the St Joseph’s group to share his knowledge of plant species, trees and different soil types.
Some families who immigrate to New Zealand view the forest and native bush as dangerous and unsafe for children. The
school’s weekly visits to Almadale Reserve have helped build their knowledge and awareness of hazards specific to reserves.
Visits begin with reviewing boundaries at the reserve, which include the river, certain plants and through staying with another person.
“Our reserves are to be enjoyed recreationally and educationally,” said James. “Having the confidence in the space to play, explore and discover new things provides the starting blocks that apply that confidence across all aspects of life.”
Almadale Reserve is located alongside the Oroua River, 10 minutes north of Feilding. The area features a small bush walk, picnic and swimming area.
A visit to Almadale Reserve by St Joseph’s School with parent volunteers, Manawatū District Council community assets liaison James Adamson and Green by Nature’s biodiversity specialist Aaron Madden
SPOTLIGHT ON FEILDING
by Denise Gunn
Father of the butter industry
One of Manawatū dairy industry pioneers, William Westcombe Corpe, started out as a sawmiller on his arrival to the Feilding district around 1881.
Born in Somerset, England in 1836 and educated locally, William worked with his brother as a provision merchant. In 1858, William immigrated to New Zealand with his wife Susan and her brother Edwin.
Initially, the trio settled in Nelson where William worked for the Nelson Brewery as a writing clerk. Several years later, William, Susan, their two children and Edwin ventured north, settling in the Carterton district where they established a flaxmill. William later ran sheep, built the Taratahi
store, and operated a transport business and a timber yard.
On moving to Feilding in 1881, William and his son Joseph leased a sawmill in Roots Street and operated other mills in the district, too. In 1883, he established the lower North Island’s first butter and cheese factory at Mākino near Feilding. Local settlers around the region supplied the factory with milk.
During a trip back to England in 1887, William took samples of his butter. Then, following the successful
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experiment of storing kegs of butter in a ship’s meat freezer, he began exporting the product to England and Australia. He was Feilding’s first businessman to export products internationally.
In addition to the Mākino factory, William built three other creameries for milk separation in Kimbolton Road, Stanway and Halcombe. William also set up a factory in Campbelltown (now Rongotea) in 1893. However, after learning of a downturn in the English market, he sold this factory to a local cooperative two years later.
him with the district title of Father of the Butter Industry.
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Production continued for several years at William’s Mākino factory and in his sawmills. In 1903, William sold the Mākino Butter Factory to Joseph Nathan and Co Ltd of Wellington. On his retirement, William was presented with an illuminated address awarding
After the death of Susan, William travelled back to England, marrying Florence Ellet in 1907. Florence had previously worked for William at the Mākino factory. The couple returned to Feilding where their son Westcombe was born. At the age of 86, William died and was buried in the Feilding Cemetery.
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Staff at the Mākino Butter Factory with owner William Westcombe Corpe circa 1900
New face joins the team
TRC Tractors welcomed Charles Alabaster into the sales team this year to join Logan Berg and Lewis Nichols.
Charles has been with TRC Tractors for five years in the workshop team as a tractor technician and then as a workshop foreman. With his passion for the industry and the brands TRC represents, he has now transitioned from the workshop into sales.
Charles grew up in Raetihi on the family farm, and started operating agricultural machinery for his parents and worked for other contractors around the district and in the Bay of Plenty. He has a great knowledge of agricultural needs.
He also raced in motocross from a young age and has recently transitioned into offroad racing with his Polaris UTV. Charles is a proud member of the Palmerston North Offroad Racing Club and is now a local resident of Pahiatua, where he resides with his wife and two children.
The sales team are all very passionate agricultural guys who have experience
in the field driving tractors and using the gear.
With brands like Fendt, Valtra and Massey Ferguson, the team know they have the right machine for your needs. With a full range of products, from ride-on mowers, lifestyle tractors to hay rakes, balers and high-horsepower tractors we have all aspects of your farming and contracting needs covered.
You will see the sales team out and about on the road in their TRC Tractors utes — they cover from National Park down to Wellington.
If you are in the market for a new tractor or some machinery, be sure to give the team a call. With bonus loader deals running on the Massey Ferguson 5S, 6S and 7S range or the bonus slasher deal running on the Massey Ferguson Compact Tractor range and lots of finance offers call 06 323 0309 to find out more.
The TRC Tractors sales team: (from left) Charles Alabaster, Lewis Nichols and Logan Berg
Crafting brilliance across central New Zealand
Born from the fusion of BuildtechNZ and fortyone Architecture, Slate brings more than 25 years of
to
Our distinctive approach combines architectural design and construction services under one roof. This integrated model ensures superior quality, streamlined processes and exceptional value throughout your project.
We understand that time is precious in the agricultural sector, which is why we manage every aspect, from planning and consents, to design, construction and aftercare, with a focus on efficiency and rural practicality at every stage.
Whether you’re considering a new modern family home, Airbnb investment, beach house or adding commercial spaces to your rural property, Slate delivers high-quality results backed by a 10-year Stamford Build Warranty. We offer fixed-price contracts to provide you with financial certainty and total peace of mind, while keeping your bank manager happy.
Our design studios are based in Taranaki and Manawatu-Whanganui/Horowhenua, enabling us to bring exceptional architecture and construction services to smaller towns
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Let’s discuss how Slate can bring your project aspirations to life, combining functionality with design excellence to enhance your family’s lifestyle for generations to come.
Treasure trove of activity
by Amy Fifita
From museums to the local farmers’ market, Feilding has a plethora of activities and attractions for locals and visitors to experience.
The town boasts an adventure for eager walkers with the likes of Awahuri Forest Kitchener Park. A remnant of a semiswamp podocarp forest, the park provides guests with a scenic setting to wander through and holds historical significance.
Fresh produce, friendly yarns and appreciation of the rural town’s delicacies can be experienced at the Feilding Farmers’ Markets. The weekly affair showcases local talents for food every Friday from 8.30am to 1pm at Manchester Square.
Manfeild is a place of excitement offering test days for drivers to take their cars around the track to see what they can do. The function centre also holds other events such as craft, agricultural shows and equestrian days.
Hobbyists may enjoy the Coach House Museum. The local history museum
stores many agricultural machines and heritage pieces for people to marvel at. Within its boundaries, visitors will discover 140 years’ worth of farming history.
Steam enthusiasts can explore the Steam Traction Society Museum, located at 76 Maewa Road. Become completely enthralled by visiting the Feilding and District Steam Rail Society at 28 Gladstone Street.
Creative souls can be encapsulated at Homeprint and learn artistic techniques like woodcarving, book production,
lino carvings and other genres of art. Options include a one-day or a five-day residency course.
For those who’d prefer to appreciate art, the Feilding Art Centre has a new monthly exhibition allowing local artists to feature their masterpieces. Run by the Feilding and District Art Society, artists can engage in the group’s regular workshops to hone their skills.
The Feilding and Districts Information Centre can point you in the right direction for the various other attractions on offer in the area.
The Coach House Museum stores machines and agricultural artefacts spanning 140 years of agricultural history
Photo: Geoff McKay
by Liz Clark
Spring Spruce Up
Now spring is here
The weeds have grown, seedlings are still in the trays and badly need to be planted and the list of jobs to do in the garden is endless.
However, that’s the pleasure and satisfaction of doing a bit each day that brings fruition to a thriving and beautiful outdoor space. Make the day-to-day gardening tasks an enjoyment rather than a groan-inducing long list of chores to get done when time is in short supply. Keep a daily diary in a notebook to record planting, weeding and other gardening activities; it will prove invaluable later on if you forget what went where. Now is the time to drought-proof your garden with a thick layer of at least 20cm of mulch. Done now, it will prevent moisture loss from the soil and save a lot of watering later on. Mulch is perfect for the vegetable and flower garden, don’t forget to do the same around fruit and ornamental trees. It will also suppress any weeds from growing through.
Indoors and out, there’s bound to be some plants in need of repotting. Potbound plants don’t do at all well if left — more often than not, they fail to thrive and eventually die. Use a pot only slightly larger than the previous one when repotting. Use a high-quality potting mix rather than soil out of the garden.
Gently tease out the roots from the root ball and prune off any excess using clean, sharp secateurs. Place the potting mix into the bottom of the pot allowing depth for the roots to extend. Carefully firm down, then place in the plant and fill then water. Record it in your diary for future reference.
Roses are starting to bud and will need a dressing of blood and bone. If available, add banana skins, which have
Now spring is here, it’s time to get the garden tidied and seedlings potted up potassium available to the plant roots as they break down. Give them a good start and beautiful blooms are guaranteed.
Fruit and citrus trees will benefit from additional compost and suitable fertiliser
as they come into blossom. Avoid spraying with insecticides at this time until after flowering has finished, so beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies aren’t affected.
Tararua and Rangitikei.
Proud to be locally owned and operated. Born and bred in the region, company owner Wayne Duncan is proud to have built and renovated many homes in Palmerston North and surrounds for satisfied clients over the years. As members of New Zealand Certified Builders Wayne’s clients are always assured of extremely high levels of
and a successful end result no matter how large or small the project.
by Amy Fifita
Fresh floors for spring
As summer approaches, it is time to prepare for the big tasks like airing out the winter
and having carpets cleaned or replaced.
With the wet and mud of winter, spring offers an opportunity to clean existing floor coverings or revamp a property with a new look. Booking now will save homeowners the hassle of making compromises between available time slots.
Bringing in a professional carpet cleaner will save time and provide carpets with the trade tricks of having a nicely spruced-up floor. Spring is a busy time for these workers as the season provides less humidity allowing for faster drying times.
Alternatively, getting in ahead of the crowds for a Big Green Machine or Rug Doctor to do it yourself can provide a wellthought-out schedule. Waiting lists for hire machines can be tight, and if you have pets, children or a country home, your carpets and surfaces might thank you for buying a machine of your own.
Carpet shampoo and steam cleaning products are available at hardware and home appliance stores for prices not dissimilar from hiring a large machine twice; always opt for the most robust model you can afford, and use the right
detergents and carpet shampoo products for the best results. Vacuuming the area before a deep clean is advised.
Prompt planning also allows for arranging while the carpets dry. If opting for new carpets, the options are vast.
Carpets are more than the soft comfort to feet. They can make or break a room right down to creating a spacious illusion with light colours or a cosy feel using rich colours — choosing the right design matters.
For those wanting a bold statement in high-traffic areas, patterned carpets like tartan and stripes are making a comeback. The textured look is also popular right now, and, as with most trends in the market today, sustainable and sturdy products are in high demand. Earthy tones are fashionable this year.
Not only do the colours offer a subtle touch, but they also create a calming atmosphere for those who want a relaxing retreat in their homes.
Regardless of giving the carpet a clean or installing new floor coverings, when summer arrives, the house will be welcoming for dinner parties and Christmas guests.
Cleaning carpets in spring allows you to wash away the winter dirt so it is fresh for the warmer months
by Andy Bryenton
The fireplace is the heart of the home; it’s no mistake that the word ‘hearth’ also means ‘the family unit’ in the North European Pagan tradition.
Putting a fireplace inside a hut or making a portable hearth that one could construct a yurt or tent around must have made moving out of caves, where there’s no way to let out choking smoke, seem very attractive.
By Roman times, people had worked out how to make a chimney, placing pottery tubes inside the walls of bakeries
and forges to keep the smoke away from where people worked and gathered. However, they didn’t cotton on to the possibilities for homes, and living on the upper floors of a Roman apartment building meant having to come down to street level to cook your dinner.
In Britain, the first chimneys were added to castles in the 1100s, and
some of them were actually toilets. The idea of a garderobe, or a tube going down through the walls for ablutionary reasons, led to some being modified to go up as well, meaning that multiple levels in the castle had the use of bathroom facilities. Bundles of herbs were lit in these primitive lavatory rooms to get rid of the inevitable smells, and it was noticed that the smoke went up and away.
There’s still a chimney constructed in this style at Conisbrough Castle in Yorkshire, turning the idea upside down and making it possible to have a fireplace right in your bedroom.
The first chimney sweeps were likely employed in industry, not around the house. Ore smelters knew that the fumes from some of their work were toxic, so they would build immensely long, nearly horizontal chimneys leading far away from the workshop and the whole town. Some could be kilometres in length, and they would develop a build-up of valuable mineral deposits. Chimney cleaning crews were out to scrape up these valuables long before the era of Victorian youngsters pressed into service to scrub soot.
Today, it’s adult professionals who manage chimney sweeping duties, and their most common task is to ensure
that soot, nesting birds and other debris are removed from the flues of people’s homes. With vacuum cleaners, modular brushes and plenty of equipment to keep the job clean and safe, they are an important part of ensuring your fireplace is ready for action. For many homeowners, having the family fireplace checked out by the experts is also a requirement set by insurance providers. The best time to beat the rush and have lots of time to plan upgrades is now, in spring, so call your fireplace installer soon.
The modern chimney sweep faces less hardship than his predecessors but still works hard to keep homes safe from fire-related accidents
CROP & PASTURE PREP
A classic gets better with age
by Andy Bryenton
John Deere’s 6M tractors have established a formidable reputation, with their range covering all sorts of farming applications, and carrying on a tradition of Deere machines that fit the bill of ‘great all rounders’.
The big green and yellow machine has achieved this in a similar way to other great icons of internal combustion by offering a model range that covers a lot of bases, while keeping the core recipe sweet and simple. While the famous antipodean car marques, like Falcon and Commodore, did this by offering everything from a spacious station wagon to a sporty, V8 powered Bathurst racer, John Deere has taken the formula of a capable mid-to-large-sized farming machine and spread it out across a range of frame sizes, power ratings and nearly limitless customisation options.
The result is a 6M for every task, no matter how big and demanding, or precise and niche-oriented. Now, with a new model year approaching, the Deere family is getting even bigger, with no less than 13 models of 6M to choose from. All of them have benefitted from some smart upgrades, too.
“The new 6M builds on its reputation as the ready-for-anything workhorse of the farm by adding more optionality, so our customers can build the tractor
that perfectly matches the unique needs of their operation,” says John Deere production systems manager Stephanie Gersekowski.
“We have taken some of the key features of our larger machines and introduced them to the mid-size tractor market, and answered the calls of those wanting extra speed for transportation with the new option of 50km/h transmissions.”
That’s important, because transitioning between jobs, and sites around a big farm on the fly is a large part of the job for many farmers.
The ability to switch from low, measured creeper speeds to a clip that’s swift enough for the tarmac has been forged in across the vast majority of the 6M range.
Equally important to many farmers is the offer of more power, with four models in the updated range topping the 200-horsepower mark. The top of the line now delivers 250 horses, and most models also offer a healthy 20hp boost for operations that utilise the tractor’s rear
PTO. Little details have been tweaked, too, with an example being the option of reversible radiator fans that can blow away chaff and debris, taking away one more cleaning chore.
Comfort, visibility and even the design of the 6M’s looks have all been given a reworking. The message from the team in green and yellow is clear. There’s a 6M to fit any role, or multi-role, on your farm, and they’re keen to have locals put them to the test.
John Deere’s popular 6M range of tractors has been improved and fettled for the new model year
by Andy Bryenton
Professional with potential
This September sees a new flagship side-by-side off-road machine take to the trails from CFMoto, and it rewrites a lot of the rules for this sector of the market.
The new U10 Pro range comes with bigger figures and superlatives, as befits an evolution of the brand. First up, the three-cylinder engine at the heart of the U10 Pro gains variable valve timing, once thought to be the preserve of performance cars.
Anyone who has felt the power boost of a VVT system kicking in will immediately see the benefit of using this technology on a UTV. The 998cc triple kicks out 90 horsepower, and a handy 94.5 Newtonmetres of torque, all-important in
conquering tough terrain. The VVT edge means (to get technical) that torque is on tap from down low at 3,000 rpm, all the way up to 7,000. That’s a broad band of heavy-hauling grunt.
Unsurprisingly, this extra oomph has an effect on the towing and load-bearing capabilities of the U10 Pro. You’ll find this new CFMoto machine easily capable of towing more than 1,100 kilograms and accommodating a further 454kg in a hydraulic tipping tray. However, these big figures are not the only thing to appreciate
when you take a look at CFMoto’s new offering.
“The U10 PRO range is more than just an upgrade; it’s a revolution in what a full-size UTV can offer,” said CFMoto New Zealand general manager John Holding. “From its powerful new engine and advanced transmission system to its state-of-the-art interior technology, the U10 PRO is designed to exceed the expectations of even the most demanding users.”
Now, you may have noticed Mr Holding mentioning state-of-the-art interior technology, and done a double take there. Surely he’s not talking about the latest ute or SUV? Well, maybe not, but there are comparisons and crossovers aplenty. First, the U10 Pro comes with an eight-
inch touchscreen, just like a top-spec road vehicle. Then there’s the automatic parking brake, fully adjustable steering wheel and push-button transmission system which would not be out of place on the forecourt of a big automaker. Most luxurious of all comes an addition to the top of the CFMoto U10 range, the Pro Highland. This side-by-side comes with a completely sealed cabin with HVAC like a luxury SUV.
A tilting glass windshield and electric side windows come as standard on the Highland model, too. Which means that there’s nothing to fear from the weather at all. Big off-road tyres and long-travel suspension dominate the mud outside, while the driver keeps toasty and dry (or summertime cool) inside.
CFMoto’s U10 Pro and U10 Pro Highland are new for September, and offer UTV practicality with full-sized ute comforts
CROP & PASTURE PREP
A strike of luck
by Amy Fifita
While farmers are busy preparing their soils and pastures, nature has a way of taking care of itself — in this case, with lightning.
Although the weather at the end of last month was shocking for some, farmers may be happy with the boost in nitrates lightning strikes provided around New Zealand. All agriculturalists understand that if the soil is good, then so, too, is the crop.
Thunderstorms are more common in spring and summer because the sun heats the ground creating warmer air above it. If the air has a higher temperature than the air boundaries further up, they clash, and thunderstorms can begin.
The electrical charge from the heavens helps the soil and plants by providing nitrates. With 78% of the earth’s atmosphere consisting of molecular nitrogen, plants cannot use it until the compound has been split apart.
Airborne nitrogen is tightly bonded together, and when lightning strikes, it allows the nitrogen to detach and bond with oxygen, making it available for plants and soil to absorb. It also converts the compound into ammonia
(NH³) if the nitrogen bonds to hydrogen molecules.
The weather disturbance often follows with thunder, strong winds, heavy rain and lightning. Fortunately, for farmers, it naturally fertilises the soil with nitrates. The split nitrogen bonds with oxygen making nitrogen dioxide (NO²).
The process doesn’t stop there. Droplets in the clouds mix with the NO² creating nitrates, and rainfall guides the nutrients to the ground. Microorganisms in the ground complement the extra nitrates with their nitrogen fixation ability. With the heightened NH³ and nitrate compounds in the soil, the plants will benefit from their presence.
For those wanting a more specific way of applying nitrogen to the ground naturally, planting beans can provide a sustainable source. The plant’s roots use nitrogen fixation allowing growers to determine the area where the fertiliser is needed.
The natural force of lightning creates a process that benefits soil health and promotes growth
The lowdown on ride-ons
The team at Central Mowers in Palmerston North bring you
purchasing a ride-on lawnmower.
Whether you are about to move to a lifestyle block with a large lawn, or looking for something that can mow faster than a push mower, there are so many options that it is easy to get confused by the choices available.
Take a good look at your section — is it flat or sloped? Does it have gardens that you need to navigate, or do you have large open areas? If you have a lot of gardens, then you need to look at the space around them to ensure the mower you are purchasing will fit through the gaps. A zero-turn mower enables you to mow around curved gardens without having to reverse back and forward like you need to when using a more traditional lawn tractor.
Set your budget. Work out what you are happy to spend on the mower and then research to look for the best products and features that you can get for that amount of money. Features to look at when purchasing a Zero-turn mower:
• The design of zero-turn enables forward speed and steering using dual hydrostatic transmissions that power the rear wheels. When you move forward one of the levers, it allows more hydraulic fluid to flow to the transmission at that wheel, causing the wheel to turn more rapidly than the other wheel, allowing you to pivot at that point, which makes mowing faster. Average speeds range
from 10.5km/h up to a super-fast 26km/h.
• Zero-turn mowers are usually mulching or side discharge and range in size 33” up to commercial-sized 104” cuts. Bigger isn’t always better. Before purchasing a very wide-cut mower, it is recommended that you seek advice to ensure you are purchasing the best option to fit your needs.
• Maintenance — how often does it need servicing? When it does, how much are belts and servicing work?
As a local family-owned and communityfocussed business, Central Mowers believes its continued success in such a challenging economic time has been due to its focus on great customer service, and the ability to be open and honest with customers about what they need.
So, if you need any information or advice call in, and Rob and the team will be happy to discuss options with you. If you need outdoor power equipment or repairs and servicing on your machinery — call in and say hi, or find them at centralmowers.co.nz.
The world’s first zero-turn mower: when you choose Hustler, you’re choosing the original, and still the best, zero-turn mower
Aggressive stance on foot and mouth
by Andy Bryenton
Presented with three options to deal with the threat of foot and mouth disease, Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard has advocated for the most extreme countermeasures to ‘stamp out’ the affliction.
A new economic report was put before the minister last week and offered a scenario in which authorities would move quickly to stamp out foot and mouth disease before such an incursion could decimate the rural economy.
“The new analysis, produced by the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research, shows an incursion of the disease in New Zealand would have dramatic impacts, with an immediate halt to most exports of animal products, and a potential and ongoing drop in export values of around $14.3 billion a year,” says Mr Hoggard.
“Immediate and decisive action will be required if an outbreak occurs, and this is why cabinet has endorsed an approach of urgent eradication, along with the use of vaccination if appropriate.”
In a strategic presentation similar to that used for combat scenarios, the Ministry for Primary Industries presented three options the government could choose from, should foot and mouth disease be discovered on these shores. One, considered unpalatable, was to live with the disease and adapt accordingly. To do so was forecast to cost more than $14 billion annually.
Another involved a slow process of elimination, while the third involved full mobilisation, including emergency vaccination. This would come with a cost, but in the end,
Mr Hoggard opines, this cost would be outweighed by the benefits.
“Using emergency vaccination would take around 10 months to achieve, cost around $1.9 billion in operating costs and compensation, and see a one-off $8.4 billion impact on the economy in lost trade. The option to stamp out without vaccination would take 15 months, cost $2.98 billion and carry a $15.3 billion dollar loss of trade,” says Mr Hoggard.
It’s a nightmare scenario that must be considered for an economy dependent on trade and heavily reliant on the agricultural sector. By reinforcing the government’s commitment to the ‘stamp out foot and mouth’ approach, Mr Hoggard and his colleagues are facing a harsh reality head-on. However, the existence of a plan to eradicate a disease incursion does not mean vigilance has been relaxed in keeping it out.
“The best way to manage any incursion is to keep unwanted pests and diseases out in the first place, which is why the government is committed to maintaining a strong border and robust biosecurity systems,” Hoggard said.
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The government’s favoured response to an incursion of foot and mouth disease is to ‘stamp out’ the virus swiftly
