Northern Farming Lifestyles, August 2011 by Integrity Community Media

Northern

Farming Lifestyles

August 2011 Edition

Phone: 09 439 6933 | Freephone: 0800 466 793 | Fax: 09 439 6930 | www.farminglifestyles.co.nz

Page 3

Page 8-9

London award for limoncello

Page 14

Many strings to their bow

tractors and machinery ACRES OF NEW & USED EQUIPMENT ON DISPLAY – CALL IN TO VIEW

Hooper 3m springtine cultivator with crumbler roller. Farmguard ‘bulldozer’ grader blade, 3 ram and landwheel, 2.7m. Walco 12.75, PTO, 3 pt fert spreader. Walco 3.50, ATV trailed spreader. Maxam 2500 mower with wilter Mowzip Crusader 4000, 3.9m hyd fold topping mower. Trimax 2.3m procut orchard mower. UFO hydraulic lift mowers. Berti TSB220 Y flail mulcher Trimax Warlord 205 mulcher with roller. Berti Eco-Forestry, 1.8m heavy duty scrub mulcher. Nobili BNU230 Y flail mulcher. Cabe 2.0m mulcher with hyd side shift. Tortella TP15-250, 2.5m Y flail mulcher. Stallion 60 teat, tandem axle, calf feeder.

McHale 991B trailed bale wrapper. McHale 995LM 3 pt, conventional bale wrapper. Feeder Leader bale feeder. Hustler CH8000, trailed multiple bale/ silage feeder. Teagle Tomahawk 5000, round bale shredder. Duncan Sidewinder, round bale feeder. DML trailed bale feeder, self loading. Giltrap MSX100, tandem axle, side feed silage wagon. Webco 900 T/A, side feed silage wagon Bucton CF800, side feed, tandem axle silage wagon.

Seed Drill linkage mounted, 3.0m, 100mm spacing, triple disc with roller. Duncan/Austin roller drill with transport wheels. Aitchison 3016 3PL seed drill. Duncan 750 till seeder undersower, seed & fert box. Aitchison seed drills, 1000, 1100, 1120. Connorshae 18 row trailing seed drill. Maxiscoop 400 HYD earth scoop, tilt axle, near new. Celli K255 100” rotary hoe with cage roller. Tortella T5-300 rotary hoe & packer roller. Tortella RPT6-320 3.0m spike rotor hoe with Aitchison seedbox and packer roller. Gallagher 2 leg shakerator with skeiths. Buckton 6t trailed fert spreader.

Sam 5T tandem axle fert spreader, plastic hopper, cover, latest model. Yamoto, New 90 hp, very tidy cab, 4wd tractor with loader. Case CX80 Cab, 4WD, loader, 3500h. Case CX80, 3950h, rops, Pearson loader. Claas 696RZ cab, 145hp, hyd shuttle and 4 speed power shift creap box. Ford 555 Industrial loader tractor, 4wd. Case MX100, cab, Pearson loader, 4wd, 4700h. International 454 2wd, loader, 50hp International 674, 2WD, loader, 70hp. John Deere 6300 cab, 4wd, loader, 90hp. John Deere 6520S 4500h, factory loader, 24 speed, 115hp.

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John Deere 8400, 250hp, 7920h, near new tyres, duals. Massey Ferguson 28, tidy tractor. Valtra T131. Cab, 4WD, Stoll loader, 1040h, front suspension, 150hp. McCormick MTX140, speed sequencer trans, 4700h, loader. New Holland TSA115, cab, 4wd, self levelling loader, 115hp. Shibaura 1840, rops, 4wd, 18hp with mower. Komatsu PC40-8 digger. Blade, tilt bucket, digging & trench bucket. Kobelco SK70 digger, blade, cab, hyd tilt hitch, thumb. Hitachi EX40U digger, tilt bucket, blade, cab. Hitachi EX120-3 digger, tilt bucket, rock bucket, quick hitch. Saki SW700 and SW25 road rollers.

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August 2011 Northern

Farming Lifestyles

The Northern Farming Lifestyles is published with pride by NorthSouth Multi Media Ltd, a privately owned Northland company.

Iconic Kiwi TV programmes featuring smart dogs from town and country are to get an international audience

Contact Details: Phone: 09 439 6933 or 0800 466 793 • Fax: 09 439 6930 Email: info@thelifestyler.co.nz • Postal Address: PO Box 474, Dargaville Physical Address: Lifestyler House, 107 River Road, Dargaville Editor: Allan Mortensen 021 439 697 Graphic Design:

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Paul Campbell Greer Mackay Cynthia Matthews Gavin Bainbridge David Stevens Cover photo:

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Kiwi dogs go international

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Deb Wright Jenny Crundwell

Photograph by Caryl Smith

Website: www.farminglifestyles.co.nz

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Country99TV, New Zealand’s dedicated rural channel, has secured a partnership agreement, which will see the Tux Yard Dog Championships and Tux South Island Dog Trials screened on the American satellite and cable television channel RFD-TV. Launched in December 2000, RFD-TV is the nation’s first 24-hour-a-day, 7-daya-week television network dedicated to serving the needs and interests of rural America. Programming includes a wide variety of shows focussed on agriculture, equine, rural lifestyle and traditional music offerings and is seen in over 32 million homes. “The Tux dog trials are an iconic slice of the New Zealand culture, something we have

all grown up with, and I am thrilled that we will now be able to showcase this to an international audience,” said Country99TV manager, Helen Ryan. “RFD-TV is home to the most comprehensive lineup of agriculturebased programmes ever assembled on one channel. Shows from around the world give agriculture professionals and hobbyists the widest variety of news and information available to fit every interest and operation.” From September 2011, the agreement will see over 12 hours of the locally produced programming screening to a potential international audience of 32 million.

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Northern Farming Lifestyles August 2011

London award for limoncello

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A Northland hand-made liqueur made from locally grown spray free lemons continues to take top honours in international spirits competitions

A limoncello cream made in Keri Keri by the Loggia family at their Villa Italia premises and sold under the Sovrano label has won ‘Best in Class’ at the International Wine and Spirit Competition held in London last month. Sovrano director Andrea Loggia says he believes the limoncello cream is the only one of its kind produced in New Zealand. It is the first time they have entered the cream in a competition. The win follows on from gold medal wins at the World Spirits Competition in Florida in January this year and at the Chicago Spirits competition last September with their Sovrano Limoncello liqueur. The Loggia’s use a five-generation-old family recipe handpicking, washing and peeling the lemons themselves is a way of ensuring quality control. “Every part of the process — from the picking through to the labelling is hand done, no machinery is used at all,’’ said Mr Loggia. This year they have been able to pick lemons from their own trees, but with the increase in demand for their products are continuing to source local lemons as well. Andrea, his wife Marzia and their teenage son Paolo emigrated to New Zealand nearly three years ago.

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Northern

Farming Lifestyles

Andrea Loggia hand peels lemons for making his limoncello

Born in Northern Italy, Andrea’s family, of Sicilian origin, have traditionally made liqueurs for generations while Marzia’s Mantova family have been making wine for generations. Helped by Paolo the couple started producing their ‘Sovrano’ limoncello in 2009.

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August 2011 Northern

Farming Lifestyles

Farmlands Kamo is open for business.

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Farmlands Kamo is now open and we've got some great opening specials on.

Between opening day (Monday 25 July) and Monday 22 August 2011, every $250 you spend at Farmlands Kamo gives you an entry into the draw for this fantastic prize*. Spend more than $500, and get two entries. The prize draw will be made at the opening event at 6.30pm on Monday 22 August 2011 and the winner must be present to claim the prize. Opening night is also your chance to win spot prizes valued up to $500! Plus, if you’re not already a Farmlands Shareholder, sign up to become a Farmlands Kamo Shareholder before 31 August 2011 and receive a $50 Farmlands voucher.**

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What is Farmlands?

Farmlands is a rural supply business and its objective is to provide its shareholders with products and services at low prices in order to make their businesses more profitable. The business is owned by local farmers and growers.

There are 44 Farmlands’ stores exclusive to the North Island with an annual turnover for the financial year ending June 2010 of $561 million. To become a Farmlands Shareholder there is an initial one-off investment of $550 which entitles the shareholder to all the benefits the co-operative offers — those benefits being the access to a massive range of products and services at lower than average prices. The idea is that the more shareholders Farmlands has the more product is purchased from suppliers which means lower prices through higher volumes. The idea works. Shareholders on average recoup the shareholder investment within the first years due to the rebates or discounts that they receive when buying products and services through Farmlands’ stores. The rebates or discounts to shareholders for the financial year ending June 2010 were $36.1 million.

Northern Farming Lifestyles August 2011

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Ph 09 459 1350 Mobile: 021 399 967 Northland Wide keeping easy. All purchases, in store or on Farmlands Card, are charged to your monthly Shareholder Account. Shareholders receive the monthly Farmlands Shareholder Magazine featuring store specials Farmlands Card offers, and informative articles and information. The co-operative model works well but the real cement to the success of Farmlands is the relationships between shareholders, Farmlands staff and suppliers. Farmlands prides itself on the friendly service we offer to our shareholders, the knowledge the staff have about products and about the shareholders’ businesses, and the belief in the co-operative to deliver the promise that shareholders have the best buying power they can get. The goal is the same today as it has been since 1962.

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Then there is the Farmlands Card. Farmlands Card is Farmlands’ charge card. It is used to charge purchases in-store at Farmlands’ stores and at businesses that are Farmlands Card Partners throughout the North Island. Both the Farmlands’ stores and the majority of these businesses give very worthwhile discounts to Farmlands Card holders. The turnover on Farmlands Card for the financial year ending June 2010 was $210 million. If a product isn’t stocked in a Farmlands’ store then more than likely it can be found through a Farmlands Card Partner. Products and services such as fuel, telecommunications, insurance, fertiliser and farm services are available through Farmlands Card as well as national retail card partners such as Noel Leeming, Repco, Bunnings and Resene, to name a few, plus many local town businesses. Another appeal of Farmlands is the simplicity of the monthly accounts that show all purchases numbered and listed in categories which makes monthly book-

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by Paul Campbell

Farming Lifestyles

A television winner for rural New Zealand It’s tailor-made for a good night in — Country99TV is New Zealand’s only television channel dedicated to the rural community

The ground-breaking channel has attracted a number of top line staff, many who will be familiar to Farming Lifestyle readers up and down the country. “We’re a private company, backed by rural investors broadcasting on Channel 99 on the SKY TV platform,” said station communications manager, Raegan Houldridge. “We’re small and effective, hands on and hugely experienced in the television industry. What’s more, we know rural New Zealand and what’s important to our viewers.” Country99TV has on offer a rich selection of Advanced Architectural solutions for your life agricultural, horticultural and rural programmes from here and overseas with the stated object of providing Competitively priced service for all your programming that is interesting, relevant and timely. New Homes, Alterations and Holiday Homes To that end, the lineup of presenters reads like a Farm and Industrial Buildings Mark Leishman Genevieve Westcott who’s who of the New Zealand broadcasting industry Commercial, Education and Childcare — including Genevieve Westcott, Mark Leishman, David Beatson, Consulting Engineer and Mandi McLeod and Philip Duncan. Resource Planning services available “Country99TV News is the only specialist rural television Advanced Architectural solutions for your life news service in the country,” adds Raegan. Competitively priced service for all your “Our expert weather forecasts provide long and short-term New Homes, Alterations and Holiday Homes and Industrial Buildings weather forecasting specifically Farm for farmers and we also bring Commercial, Education and Childcare you in-depth current affairs, debate on available on New Zealand television. Consulting Engineer and issues, extended interviews, financial Proving popular are rural lifestyle, country Resource Planning services available music, dog trials and farming history market updates and stock reports.” The station also prides itself on the programmes.

“Country99TV News is the only specialist rural television news service in the country”

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Northern Farming Lifestyles August 2011

LUPTON HOUSE BOARDING HOSTEL for students of Whangarei Girls’ High School invites applications for 2011 Lupton House offers residents:

• Safe and secure boarding with friendly caring staff and a warm positive atmosphere • Clear routines and firm guidelines • Residents of Lupton House experience the quality learning and diverse range of subject opportunities provided at Whangarei Girls’ High School • Close and long standing friendships Located on spacious grounds directly adjacent to the School. Study time on Monday to Thursday is compulsory and supervised by an educational professional. Other organised programmes include sporting and social activities. For more information about Lupton House and Whangarei Girls’ High School please refer to the School website www.wghs.school.nz or phone 09 437 7359. Assistance with fees, intending residents may be eligible for a range of boarding bursaries and funding. Philip Duncan

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“What’s more, we know country New Zealand and what’s important to our viewers” New Zealand and what’s important to our viewers.” As well as top presenters, the station news team includes reporters Drew Chappell, Benedict Collins and Emma Jones. The managment team consists of chairman — Colin Harvey, Chris Gedye, Helen Ryan, Gordon Legge, and Genevieve Westcott. A flagship programme is the Tower Sector Report, hosted by broadcasting veteran David Beatson. His programme offers in-depth analysis and lively debate on key issues with people in the rural community. With a broadcasting career spanning more than

45 years, David is best-known for authoritative presenting and insightful interviewing on television news and current affairs classics like Compass, Gallery, Eyewitness News, and Foreign Correspondent, and his five-year term as editor of the New Zealand Listener. In Money Talks, top journalist Genevieve Westcott needs little introduction as she looks at what’s hot in the market place. Then of course, befitting a comprehensive country television programming lineup, there’s a well known perennial favourite, the Tux Dog Trials — the very best canine talent in the country.

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August 2011 Northern

Farming Lifestyles

Many strings to their bow

by Cynthia Matthews

At Henderson Bay in the Far North Malcolm Ramsay and Robyn Norman juggle a successful quad tour and accommodation business with growing pinenuts and a pine plantation, raising horses and managing an avocado orchard from a meat semi-truck trailer. It sits well within the tropical setting. In 1992 Malcolm’s mother and his visiting children meant the need for a new cottage and bunkhouse, now both available for guests. “It’s all grown out of a family concern,” he says. ‘Seatoys’ is the quad tour part of the business. Henderson Bay is great for quads and for exploring Kowhai Beach or alternatively Great Exhibition Bay towards Cape Reinga. Ninety Mile beach is accessed via Hukatere Road where wild horses roam the forest. It’s a day outdoors, with kayaking, swimming, surfing or fishing options. Malcolm and Robyn use eight 350 Yamaha or Kawasaki quads with carrier boxes fitted on the backs. The first vehicle they bought was a left hand drive 4WD John Deere ‘gator’ imported from Canada. The gator, as the lead vehicle, is transported with the quad bikes on the Chev truck and trailer. The lead vehicle takes food and supplies as well as those unable to ride on the quads. “Most overseas people haven’t ridden quads before, and we provide extensive lessons. We start on a decent road to the beach,” says Malcolm. “The quads are in automatic, making it easier, and follow the lead vehicle at all times.” Malcolm is always thinking about how they can add to the business. The heliport will be ready by November, with a snack cabana and washroom. Malcolm used

They bought from Robyn’s sister in 1990 and now have two blocks of 15 and 10 acres. They first raised calves. “It was scrub and wattle. It’s known as ‘Pan Country’ — sand over rock. It must be well drained and for orchards has to be drilled,” explains Malcolm. His family was in the trucking business and he built a home

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natives establis The season for visi Hapua, ridden Malcolm and Robyn in front of a bunkhouse they built get on recycled bridge timbers. He has aimed for ground into the tree block. Malcolmis a co travelled and brought back from Americaneighb a low-key rustic look at the property. It’s The outside oven is more inventiveness. a liking for pinenuts and the idea of growing them. The 150 trees are fiveIslands He bought surplus fire bricks from years old and should fruit next year. TheyPukenu Whangarei Pilkington Glass and the result like well drained soil, sun and a bit of Rob is a stone pizza oven on top with a smoker stress to grow hardy. The 1000 young living c on the bottom. pines sport new growth too. Malcolmseafood The sturdy gator rolls over rough cleared and drained the block and thewinter very bu more l not be having he says High Quality, Reliable

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GUSSET Size 3-15 natives around the dams are now well established. The horses graze next door. In the busy season they are in the home paddocks for visitors to ride. Robyn hails from Te Hapua, Parengarenga Harbour, and has ridden from a young age. Malcolm did not get onto a horse until he was fifty but is a convert. When he can’t get out the neighbour takes his horse for a ride. It’s only two hours from the Bay of Islands yet the sweeping beaches north of Pukenui feel a much different district. Robyn and Malcolm recognise their luck living close to beach, rock pools and ample seafood. Although Malcolm welcomes the winter to do the jobs he can’t get to in the very busy months, he wants to encourage more locals to come north. “They need not be on a tight schedule and can enjoy having the beaches to themselves,” he says.

Above: Malcolm on gator at Henderson Bay Below: Robyn’s horses, Cha and her filly Tyson check out the gator

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August 2011 Northern

Farming Lifestyles

Erosion control — poplars and willows

by Bob Cathcart

Land Management Specialist, Northland Regional Council

The 2007 storms and more recently Cyclone Wilma have generated a new interest in soil conservation with the demand for poplars and willows increasing dramatically.

withstand pressure from stock providing plastic tree protectors are used. (It does pay to spell the planted area from cattle grazing, particularly bulls, for six months if possible.)

Poplars and willows first started being used in any numbers for soil conservation plantings in Northland in the early 1960s.

Both species are best planted as clean poles, the leaders of trees pruned of all side branches and with no roots. These poles are easy to handle and are best planted with a combination of a 750mm deep augured hole of slightly less diameter than the base of the pole and a modified or specially constructed post rammer.

Poles were initially imported from Hawkes Bay and, eventually a large central nursery was set up in Northland. The varieties grown changed as new ones were introduced to improve strike and growth rates, provide for better root systems, and to introduce disease and pest tolerant species. Poplars and willows are the best tree species for soil conservation as both can be planted in grazed paddocks with only minor disruption to the intensity of grazing. The poles are also big enough to

Poplars produce a network of heavy roots that penetrate well down into the subsoil and hold hillsides together and in place. Willows have fibrous roots that armour the bed of drainage channels and streams, and hold lower stream banks, preventing or controlling gully and streambank erosion.

Native trees are an option if land is to be retired from grazing however they are only an option in this case. They are grown as seedlings — so are much slower growing than poplars and willows — and grass and weeds must be controlled until they are well established. An option worth considering on actively eroding sites where the area is being retired to native trees is to first plant poplars and willows to stabilise the land then under-plant with natives when the soil has stabilised. The poplars/willows can eventually be poisoned or harvested for timber or firewood. Poplars and willows, like all other plants, need to be managed. It is also common practise to plant more trees than will be eventually required — as the trees grow they should be pruned and thinned. In most cases it will pay to replant after trees are harvested as the land may

Bob Cathcart is a Land Management Specialist with more than 45 years’ experience in land management and soil conservation. He is a registered Farm Management Consultant, a member of the NZ Institute of Primary Industry Management and the NZ Association of Resource Management.

be inherently unstable and begin to move when the old tree roots die. Prunings of poplars and willows can be fed to stock, particularly during droughts, and trimmed branches make good firewood.

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Young farmers put their best foot forward Contestants in the 2011 Young Farmer Contest Grand Final were tested on their stock handling and hoof care abilities during the AgriSkills round of the competition that were held in Masterton last month. The seven finalists were scored on their ability to correctly load and secure a cow into a Wrangler and then check the condition of her hoof. This is a vital job on dairy farms as cows walking to the shed each day are prone to getting lame. Lame cows then costs the farm in lost production, treatment expenses, and associated costs like reduced cow fertility. NZ designed and manufactured, the Wrangler crush enables cows to be held safely so the farmer can work on the hoof without fear of being kicked. Judges were watching carefully to ensure contestants loading the cow used

the girths under the cow to prevent her falling and breaking a hip while the hoof was raised. They then needed to winch the back leg onto the supporting bar and the front hoof onto a supporting block and check the condition of the hoof. Other tasks the finalists had to complete included measuring the eye muscle mass of 10 stud rams, manufacturing a steel gate, identifying meat cuts, calibrating a seed drill, and constructing a Taranaki gate. The Wrangler had been used previously in Young Farmer district finals but never before at the Grand Final. The AgriSkills winner, Mike Croad representing East Coast, took away $14,000 worth of Ravensdown products with Will Grayling taking out the top prize of National Bank Young Farmer Contest Champion for 2011.

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August 2011 Northern

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9 R d for ncy 0 r e 20NNtaEl AweaEffici I en urc Wronm eso

Mastitis is a Man made problem

vi s R En nes The drug company has a ready remedy to You shouldn’t have to put up with si u B this headache, nor should the cow. If we sell called an antibiotic so now we add another can just understand that for every infection there is a reason, and if we can identify the reason, it is not too hard to ascertain the remedy. As we all know, the bug that causes the problem is a foreign protein that has invaded the udder. That established, we must then ask, ‘who invited the bug in? And how do we insist that he leave and never return! For any unwanted guest to enter a potentially stable abode, in this case the udder, some one must have opened the door! That door in the udder is normally locked securely by a muscle found in every orifice in the body, that muscle is termed the “SPHINCTER MUSCLE” and is designed to let products out, and stop foreign products entering or invading. It is a one-way door lock, a one-way hinge. We have now established that it is a muscle that normally holds the door closed, now its open, so what compromised this muscle? What caused it to fail? The atom ‘calcium’ controls the contraction phase of each muscle, the relaxation phase being controlled by potassium. Your heart beats the same way. If we were to increase the calcium to excess, the heart would stop in the fully contracted phase, this is termed ‘calcium rigor’; if on the other hand we were to increase large amounts of potassium into the portal blood, the heart will cease to function and stop in the fully relaxed phase, and is termed ‘potassium inhibition’. Therefore, the rate and ratios of these two elements in the diet have a major influence on the contraction and relaxation of all muscles. Now, we are concerned with the sphincter muscle, remember this is the wee muscle that controls the door to each orifice, in this case the udder. If the animal was to receive too much potassium, and she is, the door or sphincter muscle will fail to fully contract and the udder will be open to the invasion of bacteria and hey presto, we have a condition of inflammation of the mammary glands termed mastitis. The animal is subject to infection all because we placed her under stress. Stresses and strains have one thing in common; they all take money out of your pocket and put it in someone else’s, in this case the drug companies.

foreign protein to the mix. If you have a drug like penicillin or some other foreign protein and it is in the milk and it winds up in the milk you sell and the buyer or the processor discovers this contaminant you will instead of getting a payment for the milk you thought you sold you will get a bill for the tanker load you spoiled with the contaminating item you put in the milk you sold. When we think we can outsmart the perfect systems in the natural mechanics of crop and animal production we run the risk of adverse reactions. All things in nature have a spectacular balance. If we attempt to accelerate the growth of crops or grass in the field and add excessive nonprotein nitrogen of any source we can certainly make the crop grow differently. The cells are longer, the grass is greener and the nutritional quality is lessened. Our meddling has changed the perfect balance and the more we meddle the bigger the change we cause in the plant and the animal that consumes it. When we change the structure in the plant we have set up an undesirable condition for the animal to deal with. The purpose of Quantum Laboratory is to ensure that our advice of what to add to the soil in the form of fertiliser will contribute to the natural harmony of food for the crop. If the crop is wholesome because of the nutrients it contains, and we have corrected an imbalance we can rest assured the animal who eats the perfect balanced crop will reward us with a healthy and abundant production. We can take this step a bit further. If we know what is in your crop and we discover that a simple addition of a special element like calcium of even a trace mineral is required we can advise you how to establish the proper balance. But the qualification is that we must know what we are doing. We don’t know until we test. Our test will give us the answers. The bottom line is always better when you know what you are doing. Unless you know what your soil contains you can easily make things much worse by adding an element that spoils a balance.

Send for our free DVD and we will show you how to control all predators in both plants and animals. Call us on 0800 85 77 33. Quantum Laboratories

Freephone: 0800 85 77 33 Ray: 021 783 539 Web: quantumlab.co.nz Email: info@quantumlab.co.nz

Peter Lester

The time and effort to properly sample and test the soil or the crop can be the most profitable expense you can make in your farming enterprise. Quantum Labs sells management advice. We base our advice on scientifically diagnosing what is needed to ensure the correct balance. If you’re farming project has a glitch of some sort and the profits are not there remember we know how to find the answers. All we know we have learned because we use this system. I had six honest serving men. They taught me all I knew Their names were What and Where and When And How and Why and Who. If you want to put more profit in your farming enterprise we can show you how to do it. The ratios of electrolytes in the diet have far reaching implications ranging from mastitis, bloat, foot rot, pink eye, fly strike, heart failure, the list goes on and on. Now the system wants to apply urea along with an inhibiter. This inhibiter is specifically designed to curtail the activity of the bacteria so that the applied ammonia stays in the soil. This applied ammonia will attach itself to the surface of the soil particles and effectively sterilize it. By its very chemistry, it will displace all of the attached minerals, temporally raising the soil pH and then the plant will become saturated with ammonia. You think you have a mastitis problem now, just stand back.

FARM

Wheels

Northern

August 2011

New from Massey Ferguson Four completely new and agile tractors have been added to the Massey Ferguson MF 5400 Series These units are between 82hp and 107hp — tough and versatile workhorses — and they were launched at the National Fieldays at Mystery Creek. “These new MF 5400 tractors reinforce Massey Ferguson’s position in our most popular sector — where we also have unrivalled experience,” said marketing manager, Shane Snijders. “Following extensive customer consultations, we introduce four new, agile tractors that combine superb power to weight ratios with excellent visibility and novel features that make them ideally suited for loader-work.

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“For these four new MF 5400 Series tractors we have taken successful features, such as the Dyna-4 transmission and re-engineered them to suit precisely the specific customer requirements for this size and type of tractor. This means

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August 2011 Northern

Farming Lifestyles – Farm Wheels

Fa r m W h e e l s

Quad bikes on the turf in the Hokianga

by Cynthia Matthews

Originally from England and Ireland, Val and Denis Ryan first settled in the Manawatu where Denis ran training courses. He was an electronic engineer and an adult teaching tutor. They made a change to farming and found their piece of land near Horeke in 2005

They run 220 acres, 120 acres of which is ‘wild land’. The farm ranges from near the edge of the Northern Hokianga harbour to steep hillside above it going back into ‘scrub’ and forest. In the northeast it bounds onto the Wairere Valley and its spectacular jumble of huge volcanic basalt boulders. The bush on the farm holds a giant puriri at least 700 years old and groves of exceptionally tall kahikatea. The Ryans grow beef, replacing from

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their own small herd of Angus Hereford crosses. The cattle help keep down the kikuyu. As well as farming, Denis and Val started up their Wairere Valley Quad Bike venture three years ago. They enjoy country life and take the chances to go kayaking and river swimming when they can. The area is very historic for both Maori and European. The farm homestead was built in 1851 by early settler William Webster. Looking towards the harbour, it is all kauri and native timbers, with the iconic high roof of the era housing an attic. Webster used to make organs, one of which is held in the Auckland museum, with keys made from carved whalebone. There is a network of quad bike trails all over the farm, including those winding through the bush to the edge of the impressive valley of the boulders. The Ryans offer both quad bike tours and lessons in quad riding, so as well as

Denis and a man’s best friend

the means to enjoy sights such as the expansive view out over the harbour, there’s also the opportunity for learning to ride the vehicles. Wairere Valley Farm Tours is registered by OSH and all tracks and quads are licensed. Denis and Val are both very experienced with the bikes and enthusiastic about visitors coming to

learn. They like to keep groups small and teach in the paddocks, but make the call if the ground is too wet. There are four quad bikes available and all equipment is provided. “It’s good for those moving on to small farm blocks with little or no experience of quads,” says Val. “It’s about developing capabilities and confidence.” The bikes have steel frames, sit solidly

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Farm Wheels – Northern Farming Lifestyles August 2011

Fa r m W h e e l s Do you need a change in your life? Want to See more of our beautiful country?

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Visitors enjoying the quad bike experience

on the ground and are grunty and capable on rough and boggy patches. “It’s focussed on handling the quad, and learning how to approach different terrain and conditions,” says Denis. Many visitors come from overseas, but Val explains that all have wanted something that is hands on, active and a little more adventurous. For those wanting to stay in the area, Denis and Val highly

recommend the accommodation and meals at the historic Horeke tavern and the Riverhead guest house in nearby Horeke. Experienced Kiwi quad bike riders have enjoyed riding over the farm as well as beginners and with Horeke the destination for the new Opua to Hokianga cycle trail the Ryans’ venture will no doubt continue to grow.

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August 2011 Northern

Farming Lifestyles

Rural Women

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What to plant now

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Northern Farming Lifestyles August 2011

Ask The Professionals Quality Motoring, Affordable Prices After 23 years’ experience in the automotive industry, with two workshops, A-grade mechanics, combined with the latest technology, Scott Ockleston understands the importance of vehicle maintenance for safety and reliability. With an honest and sincere approach to his business at Scotty’s Repairs and Maintenance, you can rely on them for their experience and professionalism. As proud members of Auto Super Shoppes, a network of premium automotive centres approved by the Motor Trade Association. They specialise in all automotive mechanical repairs and servicing on all makes and models. “A One Stop Shop”. The workshop offers the full range of servicing,

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repairs, batteries, WOFs, tyres and alignments and for extra convenience, loan cars are available. They pride themselves on working with their customers to provide top quality motoring at affordable prices. “Generally, the best advice for any vehicle owner is that servicing is the cheapest form of maintenance. Fixing a small fault can save you thousands of dollars in the long run. “If your vehicle has a problem come to us for advice or for peace of mind, a second opinion.”

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33 WOODCOCKS RD WARKWORTH

Could the solution to New Zealand’s tax and welfare mess be abolishing the current welfare system and radically overhauling the tax system?

Is that feasible? Is it desirable? We think so. The whole point of a tax and welfare system is to redistribute income from those who have plenty to those who don’t. But our tax policies are hopeless; it’s far too easy for people to dodge their tax obligations. And our welfare policies are hopeless; well-off people can access government payments clearly not intended for them, and others are trapped into dependency.

The Big Kahuna, (by Gareth Morgan and Susan Guthrie), puts some radical changes to tax and welfare on the table. • Everyone aged 18+ gets an unconditional, tax-free basic income. • This basic income replaces all other government-provided cash transfers—NZ Super, DPB, Unemployment Benefit, Working for Families. • All income is taxed at a single flat rate. • All capital should make a minimum required return, and that should be taxable—every year. No exemptions for your home. We think if the job of redistributing wealth and income is worth doing, it’s worth doing properly. That means making sure everyone has the same obligations and is entitled to the same support.

More information, discussion, calculators, book sales at www.gmi.co.nz/bigkahuna/

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WHO PAYS FOR CLEAN UP OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION? When you buy a property which has previously been contaminated, you may become liable for the cleanup under the Resource Management Act 1991. For instance, a farm, an orchard or timber yard etc which has used or stored hazardous substances in the past may be identified as “contaminated”. If this comes to the attention of the Council, enforcement action requiring you to clean up the site can be taken. In high risk areas, it is a good idea to carry out an environmental due diligence before you buy. For instance, you could obtain an environmental audit by a consultant. Checking the LIM and property file held by Council could also be a good idea. In the event that contamination is found, then you can take action to require it to be fixed before purchase or

reduce the purchase price or simply walk away from the deal. In some cases, an environmental warranty in the agreement for sale and purchase will be appropriate. Ultimately, unless you take steps to protect your interests prior to purchase, you may be left carrying the can if Council requires you to clean up the site. The Council can choose whether to require current owners or prior owners to clean up. It is no defence to say that you were not the polluter. Your best bet is to ensure that you have a contract with the vendor which allows you to make them pay if you are forced to clean up.

Talk to Richard on (09) 407 7099 - he’s the expert.

RICHARD AYTON Director/Lawyer Richard is our expert on buying, selling and any other property related issues. Call him today!

93 Kerikeri Road (by McDonald’s) KERIKERI 0230 Ph: (09) 407 7099 Email: info@lawnorth.co.nz www.lawnorth.co.nz • Buying/Selling Property • Estates Wills – Trusts • Relationship Property Law • Employment Law • Court Cases • Commercial & Business We have the expertise whatever the problem

August 2011 Northern

Farming Lifestyles

Equine Feature

A focus on horses and beef Weiti Station situated just north of Auckland between the East Coast Bays and Whangaparaoa peninsula is a long standing sport horse breeding stud

Jackie Hamiltion has managed Weiti Station for over 25 years with her husband Graham Coghlan, who also oversees the running of all the farms owned by Weiti ‘s owner Hugh Green. Jackie says Weiti’s priority had traditionally been sheep and beef, but sheep have been phased out in the last few years in favour of a less labour intensive farming operation. Now the station just raises cattle from weaning to killable weights. She says the horse side of things is obviously high maintenance, especially when foaling and the start of the show season coincide. The running of the farm profitably must always take centre stage, and the horses have to fit in around the work of looking after about 800 head of stock. A lot of the stock work is performed on horse back — especially in winter when the quad bikes are made obsolete by the depth of the mud. Weiti keeps a core band of around 12 broodmares. They range from a couple of sport bred thoroughbreds to mixed breeds including Gisborne station breds, part

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Alice on Eros going clear in the 6-year final at Horse of the Year in March, 2011

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Clydesdales and increasingly a mix of these traditional ‘kiwi’ breeds with European jumping lines. Many of the progeny are broken coloured — technically pintos, but Jackie prefers to call then by the British terminology — skewbalds — a chestnut, dun or bay horse with white patches or piebalds which have black and white patched coats.

priority, interesting colour is our speciality, and super star quality is an occasional bonus,’’ said Jackie speaking proudly of the progeny she has had a hand in producing over the years. Weiti Handy Andy is the current station stallion. He is an unusual roan and white skewbald, so produces lots of roan as well as skewbald foals. His sire is the

“At Weiti we aim to breed top quality horses — temperament is our number one

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Northern Farming Lifestyles August 2011

Equine Feature now deceased Manuka, a Gisborne bred skewbald from Ngahiwi Station, who has produced many outstanding jumpers over the last 12 years. A colt born last season, Kingswood, who carries double European jumping lines is ear marked to become junior stallion. Occasionally youngstock is purchased from other reputable studs and stations for breaking and training and then offered for sale. All the horses are bred and brought on in natural conditions. The mares run with the stallions, the foals are born unassisted in the paddocks and are fed and weaned on good quality pasture, with little hard feed or additives. In general, the foals are handled at birth, then only handled every two or three months to be wormed or have their feet trimmed. “This produces youngstock that are not ‘overfamiliar’, and we find easier to break in,” says Jackie. After weaning, the youngstock move ‘out the back’ of the farm to one of the bigger hill blocks. Here they grow slowly and strong, and learn independence and surefootedness on the hills. They also learn submission, by being run in a natural state with a herd of older broodmares who let them know their place in the pecking order. “I believe this is the basis for producing young horses that are sound in mind and body,’’ says Jackie. When it comes time to be broken in, the youngsters arrive at the yard with which they are already familiar and quickly become used to all the action of a busy working farm. The groundwork of lunging, driving and backing takes place in the arena. Once backed, they are ridden out on the hills, accompanied by an older horse to give them confidence. Weiti’s emphasis is on show jumping. This year’s upcoming stars are Weiti Eros, Weiti Aubergine and Weiti Mowgli, who will be competing in their respective age group classes, and Agastache who Alice rides in the Young Rider series.

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A New Zealand first The first New Zealand Qualifications Authority approved equine dentistry course in New Zealand has been accredited to the New Zealand Equine Dentistry School based in Tuakau. The school will be running courses in Northland, and the 22-week comprehensive course has both theory and practical sections. It is the brain-child of equine dentist Warwick Behrns whose passion for the well-being of horses — through their mouths — began at the tender age of 15. He knew that if a horse could not gain all of the goodness from its food, its performance and well-being was affected. Thirty-five years later, he is a certified advanced member of The International Association of Equine Dentistry with experience gained nationally and internationally, including six years at the American School of Equine Dentistry as an instructor. He is looking forward to passing these skills and knowledge on as a formal education to others interested in the same career. Warwick and his wife Dianna started the NZ Equine Dentistry School in 2004 to complement their busy horse dental service. Dianna handling the business and student side of things, while Warwick did the teaching. Initially with two students three times per year, Warwick taught a small amount of theory, but the three-month course was mostly practical. In 2006 the couple started expanding the theoretical side and in 2009 began correspondence with the Ministry of Education and NZQA to formally develop the curriculum, evaluations and quality management systems. They gained NZQA registration in November 2010 and course approval and accreditation in May 2011. The NZ Equine Dentistry School is proposing to build a state of the art purpose built complex, specifically designed as an educational and clinical treatment facility for the prophylaxis of equine dentistry. The classroom will be a generous space to accommodate a number of students and there will be a separate library for students to have access to industry related media and internet. Attached to the classroom will be a wet lab for working on equine cadavers. There will be a separate space within the wet lab for skeletal remains, including a classified skull, dentition and specimen collection. The clinical treatment area of the complex is where students will learn the practical processes involved in performing equine dentistry on live horses. There will be a separate pre and post

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Good teeth are vital for a healthy horse

treatment facility for horses including covered yards. From the horse’s mouth Horses rely on their mouths to eat. Since most horse owners wouldn’t recognise dental problems, it’s important to have a professional check your horse’s teeth at least once a year. Equine dentist Warwick Berhns says the importance of teeth to the animal’s well-being is vital. “The teeth act like a mortar and pestle grinding the food into a paste, to ensure all amino acids and other goodness can be extracted out of the food,’’ he said. “If the mouth cannot perform this efficiently, horses will at first over eat and then eventually not be able to eat at all. Horses with dental problems can go through stages of excessive weight gain to total weight loss including muscle loss.’’

August 2011 Northern

Farming Lifestyles

GORSE GONE IN A DAY Improve your land’s value in hours by removing gorse and other noxious weeds without chemical sprays Transforming paddocks from unusable eyesores into great looking areas that help pay for themselves is keeping Ken Borg’s company busy. Ken has been in business since 1997 as a qualified builder and started All About Earth Moving 2005 to offer clients a range of land enhancement services. The purchase of an $80,000 mulching attachment to his digger gave the company an edge and led the company into a whole new area of land clearing services. The firm’s go-anywhere digger is able to clear acres of gorse, long grass and noxious weeds in a matter of hours. “Land is expensive and so owners need to make every inch pay for itself,” says Ken. “Whether they want to increase grazing land for their cattle or increase the land’s resale value, removing unwanted shrubbery such as gorse can make a big difference.” All About Earth Moving’s services really is a case of ‘no job too big’ as its machinery is able to access any gradient and plough into gorse the size of trees — and mulch it down to nothing. “The mulcher is very powerful and can turn gorse into tiny fragments,” says Ken. “Getting good results is far quicker than spraying which can take months to kill gorse. Even after gorse is dead, it still sits on the land looking brown and horrible – it can take years to deteriorate and break down. “Using the mulcher gives an instant result, the gorse is there one moment and gone the next.” Mulching gorse saves on using expensive and dangerous chemical sprays too, says Ken. “There is a place for spraying gorse because we all know that this is a hardy weed that doesn’t die easily,” says Ken. “Gorse seeds can live in the ground for up to 50 years — so the best anyone can do is manage the problem.” Ken recommends people save money by using a selective spray on gorse re-sprouting that may appear the following season after the machine has been over the land. “Gorse can really choke up the land, so by removing it we give grass a chance to grow,” says Ken. “Of course, gorse may begin to sprout in time, so we recommend the land owner keep an eye on this and perform targeted spraying when required, normally the following season. “This saves a fortune in chemicals and is better for the land. Mass spraying of large areas is not something I would recommend as it can also take out native bush that you are trying to keep.

“Mulching breaks up the gorse so it rots down and puts nutrients into the soil to promote grass growth, the mulch also stops soil run off when it rains. Ken says real estate agents value the work his firm does as removing gorse increases the chances of land being sold. “Real estate agents know we can make land far more attractive and sellable — after all — who wants to buy land covered in acres of gorse and other noxious weeds? “What we can offer people is a very quick way to add value to their land. So it is a perfect solution for land owners who need to free land up for grazing live stock.” Apart from gorse, All About Earth Moving can remove all sorts of noxious weeds on steep hills, including trees still standing in place down to ground level. “Using track grips fitted to our digger means our machinery can go anywhere,” says Ken. ”And while long grass may not be such a big problem during winter, in summer it can be a fire hazard. We can remove it quickly and easily and give landowners peace of mind.” Some people find it hard to understand what an effective job the company’s machinery can do.

“So we had a video made so people can see with their own eyes how we can transform a paddock in hours — anyone can watch it on our website,” says Ken. Using such powerful machinery, health and safety comes first, second and third for Ken. “The safety of people, livestock and property is the top priority for us,” he says. “We understand we are working on other people’s land with very powerful machinery. So health and safety is a priority.” Naturally, the company is fully insured so landowners can be confident that if anything untoward did happen on site, they will not be left out of pocket. “Our business is built on our reputation, people trust us and building on that trust is very important to me personally,” says Ken. Watch All About Earth Moving’s video at the company’s website: www.allaboutearthmoving.co.nz For more details about the company’s range of services, call: 0800 600 500, 09 425 4520 or 021 635 577. Email: Ken@allaboutearthmoving.co.nz

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We’ll make quick work of the tallest gorse on steep, hard-to-reach sites. Steep gullies and hillsides are often left for gorse to overtake because it’s too difficult to control. Spraying requires a lengthy die-off period and still leaves the problem of removal. Burning can promote rapid re-growth and can damage non-target vegetation. With our new 22.5 tonne machine and its fixed tooth

mulching head we go where no others have before. We’ll turn gorse-ridden land into productive farm land quickly and efficiently. You’ll save on spraying costs and re-vegetation or re-sowing can start immediately. Any gorse regrowth can then be more easily managed and maintained.

Also ask us about mulching whole trees in place, storm damage work, shelter belt removal, scrub and other noxious weed removal - spray-free! $5,000,000 Public Liability Insurance covering all fire risk

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Northern Farming Lifestyles August 2011

e t a v o n e r r o d l i To bu ‘Teamwork’ wins building gold Gold has struck twice in succession for Steve Haycock Construction Limited, with the company taking out the Registered Master Builders 2011 House of the Year top award for New Homes $600,000 - $1 million. This follows a gold in a similar category in last year’s awards. “The latest gold was for a a property in Omaha,” said Steve. “And it was an all round effort from a really great staff on site, and great co-operation and service from our subcontractors. It was the same with the architects and the property owners — we all worked together.” The property will now go forward to the New Zealand House of the Year competition in a couple of months. The Omaha waterfront holiday home has four bedrooms, in two storeys, with the top floor cantilevered out on steel above the lower, and covers 267 square metres. It is already something of a local attraction in itself. “It is a very innovative home. The architects, Ponting Fitzgerald, who are based in Ponsonby in Auckland, added a design feature that makes the home stand out,” said Steve. “This is a ‘pleated’ effect in the concrete that has been formed by special moulds and it is really effective.” The home was built for Aucklanders Glen Joblin and Delcia Blackledge as a getaway from the bustle of the city. “It’s an hour door to door for us,” said Delcia “we moved in just before last Christmas, and it was just what we wanted. I can’t thank Steve and his foreman Mike enough. They did a really wonderful job and there is nothing we would want to change about the house.” The home is clad in vertical ship-lap cedar which again sets off the featured concrete, and it’s built in a U-shape around a b a r n s s h e d s g a r a g e s 0 9

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August 2011 Northern

Farming Lifestyles

e t a v o n e r r o d l i To bu The key to a good living

With spring just around the corner, it’s time to put those interminable rains and sharp cold snaps behind us, and perhaps titivate our home surroundings to enjoy the months ahead. A key component of any home is the kitchen, and perhaps more especially in rural living, everything pretty much revolves around this vital element. Get that right and it all flows from there. The kitchen is essentially the heart of the house and as such, deserves careful thought. The main functions are simple: the storage and preparation of food and preservation of household and family health and hygiene. So you need to set out to redesign and rearrange the kitchen Can’t read the paper online because your broadband is slow and unreliable? Uber Group can fix that for you with their mind-blowingly fast, Ultra priced, Ultra reliable, wireless broadband.

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to make these tasks easier and more efficient.

Computer-aided programmes are on the market which can make it a breeze to combine all the elements of a kitchen in various formats, so you can customise this room to your family’s requirements at the touch of a keyboard. Even down to the paint work. Start by looking at the effectiveness of your current kitchen and see what you’d like to have changed, and work from there. Energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important and an eco-friendly kitchen remodel is always going to be a winner, and a way to keep the household budget under control. Look for ways that you can reuse and recycle resources like water to reduce waste, lower utility costs and cut down on overall consumption.

But don’t stop at the kitchen. The bathroom is another key home element. As with kitchen makeovers, bathroom remodelling should look at good use of space and functions. The ideas are everywhere — from places you visit to using online sources and checking out commercial displays and home shows. Here’s that list again — jot down your impressions and ideas and compare this with your budget.

Mike and Cathy had a sun room that was not being used, along with the help of the builder we transformed the space into a livable room that opened up to the outside.

Read the paper online www.farminglifestyles.co.nz

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Northern Farming Lifestyles August 2011

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more than thirty years and over 12,000 homeowners now enjoy the basic requirement of an insulated home. They completed the ‘thermal blanket’ by insulating the existing walls. Insulating the walls will help prevent heat loss, reduce dampness and mould plus provide sound proofing, and as well as keeping your house warm during the winter it regulates the temperature during the summer. The Airfoam Wall Insulation installers have been thoroughly trained and nationally certified to provide you with a cost effective way to install insulation into your walls without having to remove the claddings and minimal disruption to the family. For a warmer, dryer, more ‘energy efficient’ and comfortable home this winter and savings on your home heating costs, check out the Airfoam Wall Insulation system. Ask about their low interest easy option payment plan which is available with the help of the ‘energy saver fund’ specifically for Airfoam Insulation. Contact Airfoam Wall Insulators (Northland) on 09 438 746 or 0800 432 872. You can find out more about wall insulation at www.airfoam.co.nz.

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August 2011 Northern

Farming Lifestyles

Farmers oF New ZealaNd

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by Ian Walker

Protecting productive land — it’s really just common sense

Local government are increasing turning to urban form planning because they think it is easier to manage communities and the essential infrastructure required. Intensification of urban areas and a dislike of urban sprawl raises the cost of land by restricting supply and limits the ability of rural landowners to manage their land capital effectively The standard response to calls to ‘free

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021 88 22 86

up’ the supply of land is that this will lead to ‘urban sprawl’ which will lead to the loss of rural land and impact on our rural production. The planning profession argues for 4–5ha lots as a means of ‘protecting’ rural productivity and character. Most farmers, who have a better understanding of farm management, would agree that this is probably the least efficient lot size. Defenders of urban restriction claim there is a shortage of rural land. In reality, the reverse is true — rural land is being taken out of production as farm productivity increases and marginal land is needed less. A future problem may well be what to do with under-used rural land. There are no grounds to ‘protect’ rural land at the expense of supply. New Zealand holds a significant amount of high production land to meet our present use. Our urban land requirement is currently barely two percent of the nation’s total land area and the government has already conserved fifty percent of the South Island and over thirty percent of the north anyway. With a population that is unlikely to grow to any significant extent the problem is an imagined one. There is no issue of scarcity or inefficient use of the soils.

It’s a myth based on little or no empirical evidence. The soil resource is not being lost in any significant manner, nor is it being affected in any adverse way. However, councils remain concerned about losing the productive capacity of the land. The general view being that small lots result in a loss of agricultural production or productivity. However, if we are really worried about loss of land in rural areas then reducing the minimum lot size to something like 4,000 square metres (one acre) would reduce these inroads. One hundred families living in the countryside would then use only 100 acres of rural land rather than the 1,000 acres they are currently forced to occupy. For urban dwellers wishing to enjoy the rural aspect the need to manage a 4ha land holding is very stressful. This is supported by the fact that most lifestylers give up and go back to an urban environment within a five-year period adding to congestion and infrastructure problems in towns while rural communities lose a valuable and scarce commodity needed to maintain their communities — people. Another reason

Ian Walker, National President, Farmers of NZ

councils hate rural subdivision is the likelihood of what they term reverse sensitivity. This is when urban dwellers moving into a rural community complain about farm activities and annoy councils with a barrage of complaints. This is a real issue but lot size will not address this problem. There are other ways less intrusive.

IF YOU OWN

PRE-1990 FOREST*

YOU NEED TO READ THIS... Time is running out to apply • for an exemption from the deforestation obligations under the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS); or • for an allocation of New Zealand unit (NZU) carbon credits. Each option has value and deadlines for applying are fast approaching. There is no automatic option so you have to apply. Exemptions from the deforestation obligations under the ETS. Deadline 30 September 2011. Allocation of New Zealand units (NZUs) Deadline 30 November 2011

For information on exemptions and allocations for pre-1990 forest, visit maf.govt.nz/forestry-allocation or call 0800 CLIMATE 9254 628) or email climatechange@maf.govt.nz *Pre-1990 forest land is land that was in forest before 1 January 1990 and was in predominantly exotic forest at 31 December 2007.

Northern Farming Lifestyles August 2011

Legal matters with Graham Day Restricted Fire Seasons — the cost of fires The Northern Rural Fire Authority recently announced they have implemented a Restricted Fire Season for parts of the Far North. The restriction covers the upper half of the Far North and all land administered by the Department of Conservation. To light a fire you now require a permit. With the ban in place it is a good time to reflect on some implications this may have for you in terms of the costs associated with rural fires. The law is governed by the Forest and Rural Fires Act 1977. As well as making the lighting of such fires a criminal offence, the Act also states that in rural areas the cost of fighting fires is collected (initially) from the person responsible for causing the fire. The person responsible will also have to pay the property owner for any damage caused to the land. Having a permit to light a fire will not allow you to avoid liability if the fire spreads — it simply means you can light the fire. The Act imposes a strict liability costs regime. This means that if you light the fire, you will pay the fine. It is no defence to say that you did not intend to cause the fire, or that it was a mistake. The one exception to this rule is in the case of ‘extraordinary accidents’. In those cases, if you are able to prove that you could not possibly have anticipated what occurred, you will not be held responsible. Let’s look at two examples. If a farmer mows a paddock and the mower strikes as stone and makes a spark, which in turn produces a fire, the farmer will be liable for the costs. On the other hand, if a farmer drives a maintained truck on their road and a burst tyre leads to a spark, then a fire, they would not normally be liable as that could never be anticipated.

Spreading Northland

Graham Day Solicitor, Law North Limited

The scary thing is, the amount of money involved is significant. In one recent Northland case a woman found to have caused a fire received an invoice from the Fire Service for over $115,000. In another case a damaged power line led to the Service seeking to recover over $350,000 from those responsible. So what can you learn from all this? First, if there is a restricted fire season don’t light any fires without a permit! Second, if you are implementing a (permitted) controlled burn off be aware that if it gets out of hand you will find yourself out of pocket. Third, double check your insurance policy and review how it deals with fires — you may or may not be covered for accidental fires.

• • • • • •

The precise way to grow

We apply what you need, where you need it Ravtrak advanced guidance Proof of placement maps Experienced local operator

Call us today: Jason Williamson 027 499 2530 Ravensdown Customer Centre 0800 100 123

NORTHLAND

2 SUPERIOR RUNOFFS

Southwest Dargaville

Mahuta Road & Notorious Road

Offers invited by

It is Bayleys pleasure to offer these two top quality properties to the market. On offer - 74ha dairy support or small faming operation at Mahuta Road, Redhill. Being of mixed contour, with 135 acres in pasture carrying 150 R2 heifers and bulls, the rest in a mix of pines and scrub the property is suitable for feed production or as a cattle support block, good water, two road access’ and good shedding. Also for sale is 35ha of quality Kaipara clay soils at Aoroa, a top cropping or hort block, this property also features an old cowshed, good water and good subdivision. Only minutes from town the property currently grows maize and although suitable, has no history of growing kumara.

Tony Grindle

1pm, Mon 19 Sept 2011 Bayleys, 25 Rathbone St, Whangarei View by appointment www.bayleys.co.nz/185434 & 185446 M 021 432 308 B 09 430 0032 tony.grindle@bayleys.co.nz MACKYS REAL ESTATE LIMITED, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008.

My instructions are clear. These will sell.

www.bayleys.co.nz

All companies within this composite are Members of Bayleys Realty Group

August 2011 Northern

Farming Lifestyles

Lead-acid batteries should last eight to ten years (But most don’t due to sulphation)

Sulphation is a major problem with most batteries and the less they’re used the worse it is. “All lead acid batteries sulphate and most die from it,” says Gerard Anselmi of Recharge Battery Revitaliser and Conditioner. Sulphation not only reduces the battery’s holding capacity but also corrodes the lead plates.” Recharge will break down the sulphation build up and dissolve those sulphate ions back into the electrolyte to hold the charge again. The battery regains its charge holding capacity and stops further corrosion of lead plates. “The key to using Recharge is to get the batteries before they have reached the point of no return,” says Anselmi.

The best way to use RECHARGE however is as a preventative. All batteries have sulphation to some degree so dose and charge them on a regular basis.” “Rule of thumb — dose every two years and charge every six months at least. You are effectively not giving the sulphation a chance to corrode the plates.” “And the really sad thing is when you buy a new battery it is already sulphated so dose them from day one especially if they are going to sit around.” Recharge is available through Farmlands and Auto-One in the North Island. For more info and a list of outlets, visit our website www.recharge.net.nz or call Gerard on 0800 36 33 36 and yes you can treat sealed batteries — ask him how.

Northern Rural Marketplace Acraflex Dairy Wall Coatings

AFFCO LIVESTOCK Terry North

New or existing walls

Able to be applied between milkings during summer months

Colourcrete Dairy Floor Resurfacing System Suitable for repairing damaged dairy floors or slippery areas Bruce Cameron 027 498 8412 / 09 235 8263

ATS

ProPerty Maintenance & rePair

Fences & Repairs • Kitchen/Bathroom Fit Outs Wet Wall Lining • Flooring Repairs • Decks • Water Blasting & Chemical Washes • Windows & Latches • Plus Much More

10% discount for senior citizens

No job small Ringtoo Andrew

Ph/fax 09 439 8628 Cell 027 455 7750

C&C Contract Electrical Commercial • Industrial Domestic • Dairy

Phone Craig 021 440 634 09 439 6465 More Milk

Better Health

Less Metabolics

phone 0800 4 DOLOMITE 0800 436 566 Bio-Gro certified

Phone 09 439 5902

Newman Engineering (2004) LTD Ph 09 439 5065 Dargaville www.newmanengineering.co.nz

MARGARET & JOHN BISHOP

Whangarei

Andy Payne

• Pile Driving & Drilling • Farm & Rural Bridges • Dams • Retaining Walls • Earthmoving • Drain Cleaning • House Sites • Races & Driveways • 12 T & 5 T Diggers • 6 Wheel Tipper • Bulldozer & Sheepsfoot We dig your dirt

027 543 7244

Mobile 027 484 1823 • Fax 09 439 1320

email: anlynpiling@value.net.nz After hours & Fax 09 436 2982

BABYLON COAST GARDENS Ltd

CARS WANTED

Wholesale plant supplier specialising in New Zealand natives and coastal tolerant plants

Do you need plants for a revegetation or landscaping project? Choose from our range of trees, shrubs, hedging plants, flaxes, ornamentals, ground covers and grasses. Prices start at just $2.50 per plant plus GST with great discounts for purchases of 50 plants or more. Enquiries welcome, phone 09 439 4223 or email lbright@xtra.co.nz

TOYOTA HIACE, HILUX, LANDCRUISER AND ALL TYPES OF TRUCKS, VANS AND 4WDS

WE PAY TOP CASH

TOWED AWAY FREE!

PH. JAMES 0800 442 445

Dave Holdaway Builders Ltd

High Quality Workmanship by TRADE QUALIFIED BUILDERS P.O. Box 283 Silverdale 0944, North Auckland Dave: 0274 471 593 A/hrs: 09 420 3318 Fax: 09 420 4640 Registered Member CBANZ - No: AR00802

Implements irect for tractor attachments visit us online

*Post hole borers *Box Graders *3 pt Scoops *Concrete mixers *Wood Chippers DEMO VIDEOS AND MORE PH 0800 733 355

Free parking and we don’t run late

Neil Johnson P: (09) 438 4273

FARMERS – How clean is your water?

Would you drink the water out of your troughs? Now is your best time to service your water system… Give us a call and let’s check it out.

PHONE 09 438 9103 (24HRS) CALL FREE 0800 McQUINN

Galvanized Towbar BUY ONLINE $195 Inc GST

www.implementsdirect.co.nz

Make Your Life easier! use our services now!

• Pipe & Steel Supplies • LTNZ Approved Workshop • General, Agricultural & Structural Engineering • Mobile Welding Services • General Repairs & Maintenance • 2 Ton Gantry Crane • Plate Roller, Profile Cutter & Press Brake • de-CRAP-it®, Landplane®, Serious Incinerator® • Field Rollers, Water Carts • Kumara Gear

Anlyn Piling & Contracting Ltd

0800 627 8466 148 Lower Dent Street, Whangarei

www.mcquinnpumps.co.nz

Northland Laser Drainage Ltd Neil Carter Trading as

Doug Wilson Manager Phone: Fax: Mobile: Email:

09 430 2934 09 430 2936 0274 302 934 dougw@nrh.co.nz

Specialising in Fertiliser and Metal cartage. 30 Tonne units available. We cover your country!

Subsurface Drainage Specialists (Nth) All Services & Maintenance Available PO Box 1174, Whangarei Ph 09 434 7741 • Mobile 027 273 6865

1279 S/H 14, MAUNGATAPERE

Ltd

Northern Farming Lifestyles August 2011

Notes from the shed with Mark McKewen

Septic Tank Owners

How you can save money by keeping your septic system effective and healthy

With calving underway the next thing to think about is mating. The last season has shown some disturbing empty rates particularly in the North but also elevated rates all over the country, even heard to be over 40%. The impact on the bottom line is significant and will impact for the next season or two, and can be a significant threat to business viability. The Hows and Whys are things that need dealing with by relevant experts, however something Milfos can help with is heat detection. While there are some farmers who are good herdsman, it is the issue of farm workers without these skills that needs addressing.

Advertisement 40165

Mark McKewen

Traditionally detection has been standing in a paddock at all hours or tail painting and various other solutions. All are valid but rely on observation or application and tend to be hit or miss solutions. Milfos have a system called iHEATIME, all based around clever collars that record three dimensional activity (not a pedometer). The activity information is gathered by an electronic reader and the data is processed by a programme that automatically looks for heat activity. It is very accurate, durable and easy to use leaving you the decision on what you want to do with the cow, not worrying about if she is in heat. There are standalone low cost units for up to 600 cows, to fully networked systems, with a sorting gate for convenience if you wish. If you wish to know more information or options about iHEATIME, please visit our website www.milfos.com or call your local Milfos Dealer.

Septic tanks and multi-stage septic systems are delicately balanced environments. It does not take much to upset them. Common practice is to ignore the septic system until problems occur. Good and best economical practice is to always keep your septic system well maintained. A malfunctioning septic system can become a health hazard. When a system is not maintained or operated as a delicately balanced environment, problems occur. These problems include nasty odours, leach line blockages, untreated liquid rising to the surface, toilets gurgling and taking time to empty. At this stage your septic system is a serious health hazard to you and your children. Human waste produces faecal coliform bacteria, a source of viral and bacterial gastroenteritis as well as Hepatitis A and other diseases. Hepatitis can be a debilitating condition and cause long-term harm to children. There are only three remedies. One: stop using the septic system until it recovers. This can take over a month and is not normally practical. Two: excavate your septic system and relocate it. This is very costly and time consuming, sometimes requiring new resource consents and different systems. Three: treat your septic system with Septi-Cure™ every six months. Septi-Cure is Cost effective. By far the most cost effective solution is to pour one litre of Septi-Cure™ down each toilet bowl every six months. This simple action will help keep your system working at top efficiency by reducing solids and scum. Instead of emptying your tank frequently, the reduction in solids and scum saves you expensive pump out costs. Your irrigation field and leach lines will become clear of slimes and

b blockages so nature can handle the gradual seepage and evaporation for you. When this is happening your system will be operating effectively and not endangering you or your family’s health. What is Septi-Cure™ Septi-Cure™ is a concentrated mixture of selected naturally occurring microorganisms. These harmless tiny organisms live and multiply by feeding on waste material. When introduced to your septic tank system, they go to work straight away digesting waste material, reducing solids and scum, allowing your septic system to start operating to its maximum efficiency. As they progress through to your irrigation field they feed on the slimes that prevent seepage and evaporation. When seepage and evaporation return to normal, you have reduced the risk of contaminating groundwater and the environment as well as reducing the chances of infection for you and your family. Eventually, they get washed out of the system and have to be replaced to continue their work. This is why you introduce Septi-Cure™ to your septic system every six months for maximum efficiency. Ron Simpson of Hamilton has been using Septi-Cure™ for three years. He says this allows them to have an odour-free septic tank with low maintenance costs. He also says that his service person is amazed at how well Septi-Cure™ works, keeping their tank in very good condition. Problematic septic tanks – treat with Septi-Cure™.

Prevent septic system problems – treat with Septi-Cure™.

Northern Farming CLASSIFIEDS Reach 33,300 Rural Homes — Phone 0800 466 793

For Sale

ATV Mats from $89 – Come in & see us at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636 www.atvtyres.co.nz. Be quick offer ends 30/08/11.

NEW YAMAHA FARM ATVs – 5.9% interest & 3 year warranty. Only at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi – phone 0800 963 636 & Yamaha MC Whangarei – phone 09 438 0804. Offer ends 30/08/11.

ATV SAFETY HELMETS – from $119 accessories from $15. The law has changed! Have you got yours? Come & see us at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636 www.atvtyres.co.nz. Subject to availability. CHAIN & SPROCKET KITS DIRT OR FARM BIKE. SAVE 10% off RRP If you get them fitted at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636 www.atvtyres.co.nz. Be quick – offer ends 30/08/11. CHICKEN INCUBATORS for 7 eggs to 20,000, Quails to Ostriches. Guaranteed Good Results, plus 1 Year Warranty. DOMINION INCUBATORS, 11 Prospect Place, Hamilton. Phone 07 846 5569. Email: info@ dominc.net. Chicken Manure $20 per ton plus freight. Supply, cart and can spread. Call Jeff 09 432 2444 or 0274 765 458. Edex toys – quality educational toys for centres and individuals. Shop online-delivered to your door. Awesome selection of toys for your children. Queries to Sheryl 09 432 2446, www.edextoys.co.nz or northland@edex.co.nz.

Quality Meats, homekill processing, raffle packs. We take phone orders and have daily specials. Bream Bay Butchery at Ruakaka Shopping Centre — Phone Shirley & Wayne 09 432 8140. SINTERED BRAKE PADS – for MX & FarmBikes – from $39 at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636 www.atvtyres.co.nz. WEED EATERS & CHAINSAWS – GET 10% OFF STOCKED ITEMS at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636 www.atvtyres.co.nz. Be quick – offer ends 30/08/11. Windmill water pumps by Ferguson Windmills Company. www.windmills.co.nz sales@windmills.co.nz Phone 09 412 8655.

Rural Supplies FREE MERINO SOCKS with every order this month only. FIGHT THE FROST! Watertanks, pipelines, taps, valves and fittings, all online at www. nzplumbingsupplies.co.nz or call 0800 428 376.

Work Wanted

NEED NEW ATV TYRES? GET 20% OFF RRP & FREE FITTING at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636 www.atvtyres.co.nz. Be quick – offer ends 30/08/11.

Back 2 wood Demolition. For your renovation needs. Servicing Northland – Auckland. Specialising in windows, doors and ranchsliders. Also kitchens, vanities, roofing and more. www.back2wood.co.nz. Ph 09 408 7163.

Read the paper online www.farminglifestyles.co.nz

Concrete pads, shed floors, feedout pads, house floors, driveways, footpaths, concrete cutting and drilling, retaining walls, paling fences, excavation work. Waipu, Ruakaka, Whangarei, Mangawhai & Langs Beach. Phone Mark 027 443 3130 or 09 439 0107.

To Rent

Services

Cottage to rent

ATV FARM BIKE MX SPARES

Maungaturoto Own enterance. Suit single person. 2 Km out of town on SH12. Ring Julie 021 158 4307 Services Farm Bridges Phone Pat now 0800 222 189, visit www.bridgeitnz.co.nz. Bridge It NZ Ltd. Furniture Moving Around NZ or around the world. Single items or house lots. Pro Packing, moving, insurance. Via trucks, containers, shared loads. Ph 0800 496 753 www.worldmoving.co.nz. “Experience & Advice You Can Trust”. Concrete bunkers designed and produced by farmers for farmers. Formed with high quality materials and a rapid construction time. Complete cover solutions to eliminate wastage and save $$$. For more information call 0800 292 546.

ATV SERVICE.

Receive 10% discount off RRP for standard service parts* with this voucher when you get your ATV serviced at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636 www.atvtyres.co.nz. *Conditions apply, offer ends 30/08/11.

INTRODUCTORY OFFER. New Customers Receive 7.5% discount off RRP for all stocked items with this voucher at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636 www.atvtyres.co.nz. Be quick – offer ends 30/08/11. Conditions apply.

MX FARM BIKE SERVICE. Receive 7.5% discount off RRP for standard service parts* with this voucher when you get your MX / Farm Bike serviced at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636 www.atvtyres.co.nz. *Conditions apply, offer ends 31/07/11.

Travel COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL NORFOLK ISLAND. Escorted tour 20-27 May 2012. One of the most popular events in the island’s calendar. Skylark Tours 09 432 8065. GOVERNOR’S CUP GOLF TOURNAMENT NORFOLK ISLAND. Escorted tour 30 Oct – 6 Nov 2011. Amateur Pairs Event. Incl entry fees, green fees, gala events – $2,499pp. Group rates available. Skylark Tours 09 432 8065. JAZZ IN THE PINES NORFOLK ISLAND. Escorted tour 4-11 Dec 2011 $2,149pp – Incl fares, accom, six jazz concerts & music events. Skylark Tours 09 432 8065.

August 2011 Northern

Farming Lifestyles

MADE

BUY ONE

GET ONE

FREE

Buy a new Polaris Ranger ger (excluding Ranger 400)) and get alued at $5,200 0. a free Polaris Mower valued $5,200. If you don’t want the mower, then takee $5,200 off the price of any additional nger. new Polaris ATV or Ranger. *Offer ends 30/9/11 or earlier if stocks run out. Not valid with other er offers. Excludes fleet clients. See dealer ffor or details. Overseas model shown.

$1000 POLARIS ACCESSORIES

4X4 with a 455cc auto engine, high ground clearance and long-travel suspension.

$8885

PLUS GST

PLUS $500 POLARIS ACCESSORIES SS

Purchase any Polaris Sportsman 549cc and above, and you’ll get $1,000 worth of genuine Polaris accessories FREE!

HIKURANGI. PH: 0800 96 36 36.

PLUS GST

PLUS $500 POLARIS ACCESSORIES SS

*Conditions apply. See www.polarisindustries.co.nz for details. Offer ends 30/9/11 or while stocks last. Excludes fleet clients. Sportsman XP shown with over $1,000 worth of accessories.

*Conditions apply. See www.polarisindustries.co.nz for details. Offer ends 30/9/11 or while stocks last. Shown with over $500 of accessories.

ROUSE MOTORCYCLES

$6685

*Offer ends 30/9/11 or earlier if stocks run out. Excludes fleet clients. Shown with more than $500 of accessories: brushguards, rack extenders, bags & gun scabbard kit.

MAUNGATUROTO MOTORCYCLES LTD MAUNGATUROTO. PH: (09) 431 8555.

KUMEU CHAINSAW & MOWER HUAPAI. PH: (09) 412 8109.