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Doing what counts
by Grant McCallum, MP for Northland
Last week, the prime minister and Education Minister Erica Stanford announced that the coalition government is transforming maths education to address the shocking state of maths achievements in our schools.
It won’t come as a shock to you that I fully support the announcement, and I firmly believe in getting back to basics regarding the school curriculum.
Many years of tinkering, often ideologically based, with teaching have done our kids no favours, particularly with the fundamentals of reading, writing and maths.
As a parent, I’m only too well aware of the impact of the lack of the focus of teaching the basics well. The statistics show a significant negative impact on the children of NZ.
New data from the Curriculum Insights and Progress Study (SIPS) show that just 22 per cent of maths students are meeting the expected curriculum level. That leaves 50,000 children who didn’t, and 63 per cent of those are more than a year behind.
That’s why minister Stanford is swiftly launching the three-part Make it Count
maths action plan, which will take effect in term one next year.
The three parts include a new maths curriculum based on a methodical and structured approach to teaching the fundaments: $20 million allocated for professional development in structured maths for teachers and a lift in the entry qualifications for new teachers; and twice-yearly assessments for maths in primary schools from 2025, plus small group interventions to support students who have fallen significantly behind.
We’ll also train 1,500 more teachers with $53 million in budget funding. It is an ambitious programme, but it addresses a serious issue. Transforming maths achievement is a must-do step toward, giving our kids a world-leading education and setting New Zealand up for future prosperity.
I believe all parents and employers will warmly welcome it.
Grant McCallum, MP for Northland
by Paul Campbell
Seeking a medical specialist
“Dargaville is currently in the national spotlight over the lack of overnight doctor staffing at our hospital, but we have an amazing health team. Let’s celebrate their service.”
Chief executive officer of the Kaipara Community Health Trust and former member of the Northland District Health Board, Debbie Evans continues: “We’d absolutely prefer to have an on-site doctor available overnight, and we strongly urge Health New Zealand—Te Whatu Ora to prioritise urgent recruitment for the right resources to serve our rural town. We’ve been advised the recruitment process is underway.”
Debbie says Dargaville Hospital operations manager Jen Thomas, assures that systems are clinically safe and patient care remains at the centre of all decisions.
“We’re proud of our 12-bed rural hospital with an acute assessment unit, outpatient clinics and many community-based services all situated on the same site. We boast the latest X-ray imaging and on-site laboratory testing.
“Jen has been integral in implementing rural health initiatives, ensuring a focus on rural health with Dargaville’s interest at heart. Cases managed are complex and interesting, which should help attract the right candidates to the advertised role. We have an amazing health team with over 200 people on-site — every one of them doing their best every day.”
Technology provides Dargaville with access to Whangārei emergency consultants to support nurses for
immediate critical care and prescribing of urgent medicines. “In 2013, the trust fundraised for telehealth equipment, which has enabled portable equipment to be used in live time, enabling patients to talk with specialists using up-todate, secure video conferencing and camera technology.”
This service has been complementing the on-call overnight doctor service for the past 12–18 months. St John, the Northland Rescue Helicopter Services and first responders from Fire and Emergency NZ, are also on-call.
“We’re living in a fragile environment, with worldwide shortages of health
professionals,” Debbie said. “Let’s acknowledge and support the people we have on the ground and encourage others to join our workforce.
“Dargaville’s small rural hospital keeps evolving and continues providing quality services. We look forward to a bright future, excellent health facilities and a full complement of highly skilled health professionals serving our community.”
Debbie Evans: “We are grateful for technology solutions that have kept our hospital doors open and our patients clinically safe.”
VENTURING OUT OF THE COMFORT ZONE
BY AMY FIFITA
for agriculture.
“Ihad a rural upbringing, although the area is heavily developed now, but when I went to Matarau School, all of the students had an association with a farm,” said Caleb.
“Going there from year one to eight, I was involved with the calf club, so my first interactions with livestock began with pet lambs and later on calves. For secondary
school, I went to Whangārei Boys’ High School where I learned ag studies and played many sports.
“My parents had many farming friends and I spent most of my spare time rearing calves and milking cows. It was dairy-focussed, as there was minimal beef farming in that area.”
fencing Residential fencing Rural fencing
Leaving school, Caleb began dairy farming full-time, but always
had the desire to pursue sheep and beef farming.
“When I was 18 years old, I moved to the Wairarapa as a shepherd, and I spent the next eight-and-a-half years widening my exposure to that industry on different farms in New Zealand and overseas.
“After spending four-and-a-half years in the Wairarapa, I travelled to the UK, where I was a shepherd for two years. Next, I went to Tasmania, where I worked as a stock manager doing cropping and sheep place for another two years.”
After exploring the sheep and beef industry in New Zealand and abroad, Caleb returned to Northland where he settled with his family.
“My wife India and I have two young daughters, Breagha and Georgie. India grew up in town, but she enjoys the rural lifestyle, especially now that we have children, because it allows them to grow up outside.
The practical day allowed Caleb to showcase various skill, including his knowledge of meat cuts
“I prioritise family time so, when we can, we go fishing together. I have always spent a lot of time on the ocean, and, for me, it is not so much about fishing, it is about getting out on the water.
Raised in the rural outskirts of Whangārei on a five-acre lifestyle block, Young Farmer of the Year runner-up Caleb Eady forged his love
“Most people know me through my contractor business Eady Fencing. I started it with the idea of enabling myself to lease land and to create a flexible job, and two years later, we took the opportunity to do that in Whakapara.
“We run dairy grazers, rear calves and have beef animals, either finishing or sending them to the store depending on the market. We also rear Friesian bulls that go out at 100 kilograms on calfrearing contracts.
“When buying stock, we opt for Hereford or Angus-dairy crosses because they do the best in our system.
“Every decision I’ve made has been an opportunity that has presented itself. You have to take a little bit of calculated risk, but, more often than not, I take an opportunity, and if it doesn’t work out, I learn something.”
Valuing upskilling, Caleb uses education to broaden his agricultural knowledge and hone his personal skills.
“I have always done education on the side whilst working. I did a weeklong course learning to shear sheep and obtained my diploma in agriculture and enjoy personal development, and I am currently focussing on my public speaking and leadership skills.”
Another significant part of Caleb’s life is Young Farmers, and he enjoys the social aspect of the club and the challenge of the Young Farmer of the Year competition.
“I recommend being part of Young Farmers to anyone, and you don’t need to be a farmer to join. My Bay of Islands club has a wide range of people, although many of them have some association with agriculture.”
Caleb has competed in three regional finals, and last year convened one. Last month, he received his top placing as the runner-up at the grand finals in Waikato.
“Competing gives you an indication of your strengths, and also creates the opportunity to work on your weaknesses.
“When preparing to compete, you explore parts of agriculture you don’t know much about. I looked at deer farming. It didn’t come up in the grand final, but it helped push me to look outside my wheelhouse.
“I also had the opportunity to interact with sponsors and the community, and be pushed out of my comfort zone.”
When Caleb isn’t doing Young Farmers activities, he can be found hunting with his friends, fishing with his family, fencing or, more often than not, on his Whakapara farm. “I spend a lot of time on the farm and, although it is a job, I love it,” says Caleb.
Caleb had the opportunity to show his fencing skills at the Young Farmer of the Year practical day
Young Farmer of the Year grand finalists
Archie Woodhouse, Dennis Main, Caleb Eady, George Dodson, Zac Thomas, Gareth McKerchar and Zayn Jones
THANKFUL FOR LIFE
BY ANN VAN ENGELEN
Simon Soulsby is forever grateful to the Northland Rescue Helicopter, Mangawhai Surf Life Saving Club and local emergency services for keeping him alive during a heart event while surfing at Mangawhai Heads in December 2020.
was born and raised in the UK in little seaside towns and love the ocean,” says Simon.
“After a gap year, I returned to the UK three years later. My friends had graduated from university, so I joined the air force as an emergency services firefighter for six years.
“I came to Christchurch 23 years ago after leaving the military and moved to Auckland 13 years ago with my wife Melissa. I surf whenever I can, often at Mangawhai, Forestry or Te Ārai beaches.”
Simon and Melissa have two children, and he has a very busy career.
ATTENTION FARMERS
“Getting out on the water is important to me. My air force medical training emergency first aid is very loose. So on the fateful day, in December 2020, whilst I knew what was happening, I didn’t really know what was happening.
“It was a beautiful day, and I met my mates to surf off the Mangawhai Heads bar as the sun was coming up at 5.30am. We headed out and had a beautiful paddle out through the estuary. Everything was perfect, including the waves.
“I took a bit of a tumble and paddled back to catch another wave but began feeling strange. Through my multisport experiences, I thought the feeling was what’s called bonking (in exercise talk), which you sometimes get when your body goes into having ‘had enough’ mode, and you struggle to keep going.
Taking an easier approach to exercise, Simon ensures he has someone with him when he goes surfing
“With an overwhelming feeling, I realised it wasn’t that. I couldn’t move that well, so I called out to a mate and told him I’d let him know if I got worse.
Mia and Leonardo recently visited with Northland Rescue Helicopter pilot Johs Van Pierce, St John critical care paramedic Jared
and intensive care paramedic Leah Baker to say thank you
“A few minutes later, it was worse. I was struggling to lift my head out of the water or off the board, and another friend, Mark Redgrave, came to my side.
“I said I needed help as I couldn’t move my arms, and my face was drooping.”
Simon’s heart had gone into VT arrest.
“VT arrest is where your heart’s rhythm spirals. For me, it lasted two hours. We thought I was having a stroke. Mark had to get me to shore, but we had to go around the point.”
Mark removed his leg rope and got Simon to it while he towed him in.
“I had no strength, and Mark paddled and paddled. The beach break was a straight line with no way through. It took 30 minutes to get to the beach, weaving diagonally through the closeouts from the heads, taking us 300 metres away from the lifeguard hut.
“If I fell off, it’s highly likely I would have drowned. By a miracle, we got to knee-deep water, and I recall the sense of helplessness as Jessica Costello, the senior lifeguard, ran over and got me into the quad and to the lifeguard hut.
“A local doctor, Julia Carr, took over and 45 minutes in I was saying the classic lines you hear in movies, like ‘Tell Melissa I love her, keep an eye on her and the kids for me’. Mark said I could tell them when I got home.
“I could hear Julia and Jess saying they couldn’t find a pulse, and there was no blood pressure. My heart was in a rhythm of VT arrest at 250–300 beats a minute.
“Two ambulance crews arrived, but Julia insisted on the rescue chopper. Twenty minutes later, I heard the chopper blades, but a bunch of cars had parked on the landing pad, and it was a nightmare to find the owners.
“Suddenly, two angels appeared — chopper paramedics Leah and Jarrod. They suggested putting me to sleep and restarting my heart with a shock to return it to its proper rhythm. I’d been in the rhythm for so long that it was just a matter of time before it would stop or give up. Suffice to say, I agreed.
“While I was in the chopper, I accepted I could die. We landed in Auckland with Melissa waiting. After a week in critical care, the MRI found scar tissue on my heart, which explained why it went into arrest.”
Simon was flown to Auckland Hospital with Mark beside him. Read part two of Simon’s rescue next month
We never know when ourselves, someone we know, or a stranger we come across could need the rescue helicopter team, particularly those living rurally. To support the Northland Rescue Helicopter go to Nest.org.nz/donate.
Simon,
Sharples
Simon and Melissa Soulsby love spending time with their children, Mia and Leonardo
The mineral was only ever commercially extracted from three places in New Zealand: Puhipuhi and Ngawha in Northland and Mackaytown on the Coromandel Peninsula between 1907 and 1945. Still, even today dangerous contamination may continue.
DARK DAYS OF EARLY NORTHLAND MINING DARK DAYS OF EARLY NORTHLAND MINING
Mercury, while toxic, has long been a servant to humanity in thermometers, compasses and a myriad scientific instruments; there once was a time, when mining for it was a flourishing prospect in Northland.
Today a Multilateral Environmental Agreement is tackling international mercury production, which means mining the element will become illegal in the world in 2032. This stems from the Minamata disaster In Japan where in 1956 mercury contamination of seafood killed more than 1,000 local people and crippled many more.
In the case of the Northland mines, mercury had already caused victims when the mines operated.
At Puhipuhi, we can still find processing plant machinery: metal cooling towers 12 metres high, a cast iron extractor fan and part of a giant rotating furnace. Both there, and at nearby Ngawha, the mines were dangerous places to work. Department of Conservation records say the men who operated the processing plant were in constant danger of inhaling toxic mercury vapour. In 1935, they were suffering from highly inflamed gums and loose teeth — symptoms of mercury poisoning.
Recently surfaced photographs from the mining days amply demonstrate the complete lack of any protective measures taken in the mining operations, and the region is still possibly toxic today.
During the second world war, when mercury was a valued conflict material,
BY PAUL CAMPBELL
a family member remembers her father being very ill, waking up with his mattress soaked in sweat, a symptom of mercury poisoning, along with tremors, lung damage, kidney damage, nausea, emotional upheaval and even death.
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Workers at Ngawha mine collecting ore for processing
The men who invested in the mining venture were able to avoid the threat of actually working physically but they did suffer in terms of their wallets. When mercury was in great demand for compasses and munitions — the mines failed to prosper because they were poorly equipped. Then after the second world war, the price of mercury collapsed and the Northland mines reverted to bushland.
However, conservation work is in an early stage, and DOC says recording all of the ruins is a challenging task, made all the more complicated by the dense undergrowth. Once the site has been properly recorded, the department plans to monitor the historic ruins to see whether any stabilisation work needs to be done.
The mining area is not developed for visitors. There are no signs, tracks or other visitor facilities, and there are
multiple hazards, including unstable structures, machinery parts, steep slopes and possible mercury contamination.
History records that in 1907, quartz outcrops were found to contain cinnabar, a mercury source, and a Mr Holder began to work the deposits. Three years later, Mr Holder’s claim and adjacent ground were taken over by the Whangarei Cinnabar Company, which built a small treatment plant.
This was followed by a succession of companies attempting underground mining operations: the Whangarei Cinnabar Company, the Auckland Cinnabar Mining Company and New Zealand Quicksilver Mines Limited continued to produce mercury, and 1,558 tons of ore had been processed, yielding more than 15.5 tons of mercury.
This output was an important resource during the second world war and the NZ
government of the day actually prepared a ‘denial of resources’ plan to destroy areas of value if the Japanese invaded the country. The mercury workings were specifically identified for destruction. However, the Japanese surrendered, and when the war was over, the price of mercury plummeted, so that it wasn’t worth the work involved in its extraction.
In the 1960s and 1970s a few companies did show some interest in reviving the operation. Exploratory prospecting was carried out, but the lease held by New Zealand Mercury Mines Ltd. expired in 1981 and the land reverted to the Crown.
busy days of extensive mercury ore mining circa 1930
Harbour rescue nears two million plantings
by Paul Campbell
In the $300 million, 10-year planned remediation project for the renewal of the Kaipara Harbour almost two million shrubs and trees will be in the ground after work by Kaipara Moana Remediation partnered with Conservation Volunteers New Zealand.
KMR has trained 115 people in the past year, many young people from local hapū and communities with the latest native planting day at the Kaipara Webber Family Farm, owned and operated by Ross and Eleanore Webber.
CEO Justine Daw says the planting day was significant, as KMR nears having two million trees in the ground in only twoand-a-half years and 1.88 million plants already in the ground or contracted to plant this winter.
“Planting days like these are as much about showcasing restoration concepts and methods, showing how this type of onthe-ground restoration can be achieved, as they are about sharing knowledge with the wider community. Showing people the way really unlocks the potential of our communities and increases the number of groups who really understand and are confident enough to do it themselves.
“Projects like Ross and Eleanore’s are living examples of really great sediment reduction initiatives with multiple agencies contributing. We are all in this together, so it is great to be able to celebrate best practice and be mobilising the community to support the important projects going on right across the 600,000-hectare Kaipara Moana catchment throughout Auckland and Northland.”
Ross and Eleanore Webber have been advocates of protecting the Kaipara
Harbour for decades and have added another 3,661 stems to their latest project. They’ll plant 20,061 sedges, rushes, plants and trees on their 200ha, 135ha fully effective, beef breeding unit.
“We need to get more people on board with KMR, because the more of this sort of work we all do, the better off our environment will be in the long-term, and
that’s great for the entire country and our wider communities,” says Ross.
“We have a 29ha QEII National Trust covenant, which dates back 20 years, and the area we have planted has also had support in the form of fencing to keep feral deer away from the natives. We have made a point of fencing off any parts of the farm we deemed uneconomic, so
we have around 15 blocks on the farm protected and planted with natives, which total 40ha.”
Justine encourages landowners and groups in the Kaipara Moana catchment to join the nearly 700 farmers, hapū, whānau, marae, catchment groups and community groups already benefiting from KMR support.
Kia ora Te Tai Tokerau,
From left: QEII Trust’s Jess Reaburn KMR’s Shona Oliver and Justine Daw with farmer Ross Webber
Growth for community
by Amy Fifita
After beginning the mara kai nui (big food field) following its centenary, Waiotira School has completed about 80% of the project.
“This term we had a group of Tauraroa Area School trade team students build three raised gardens for us. They volunteer their time to complete various building projects for different groups in the area,” said teacher Amanda Ball.
With discussions about installing a hāngī pit, pergola and seating area, the school plans to continue making the garden a community-focussed space.
“Our dreams are big, and we hope it will become a space for community members to feel comfortable in. The students are highly involved with the mahi and constantly share their ideas.”
During the brainstorming process, junior students envisioned the mara kai nui having a playground, food collection baskets, a basketball hoop, personal gardens and planting rainbow flowers to attract butterflies.
The school is thankful to have received funding and donations from the Northland Regional Council and Foundation North’s Environmental Leaders Fund, HeliNorth, Bunnings Warehouse and local people.
“The fund allowed us to build a structure to capture water, grow seedlings and store equipment. Local builder and school supporter Phil Gurr donated all his time and expertise to create the structure.
“Our local Ravensdown fertiliser representative has analysed our soil test and gave recommendations to our students.
“As time goes on, we are understanding more what our kura need and will benefit from, and also discovering what is important for our community and what they want.”
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Waiotira School students continue to work on the mara kai nui (big food field) to offer fruit and vegetables to their families and the wider community
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Northland — home of the friendly field days
Northland Field Days is the largest agricultural event in Northland, attracting thousands of visitors and more than 400 exhibitors each year; the event is in Dargaville at Northland’s premiere outdoor event venue.
A hub for the latest innovations in the farming industry and machinery and technology, the Northland Field Days receives visitors from around New Zealand interested in what’s the latest in the agricultural field.
It doesn’t stop there. With Ripiro Beach, the longest driving beach in New Zealand as our backyard, the event is the perfect opportunity for all things hunting, fishing, 4x4 and the outdoors.
For the petrol heads, the Northland Field Days always puts on show with Lawn Mower Racing, Mini Mack Rides and the exciting Tractor Pull, where you can watch the big machines race on the dirt track to test brute strength, skills and technique.
While at the Northland Field Days be sure to watch the sheepdog trials where
men and their best friends show their skills herding sheep in this calm and entertaining farming sport.
With 400-plus exhibitors and more than 20,000 people at the last event, the committee of the Northland Field Days is preparing for its 39th event. It is determined to keep its motto of the ‘Friendly Field Days’, all whilst delivering not only the largest, but the best event in Northland, where there is something for everyone.
Exhibitors’ registrations are now open and sites are selling fast, so get in quick and secure a site at the biggest outdoor event in Northland.
The Northland Field Days is also planning a painting competition for the community, so keep an eye on its website if you would like to show your skills to more than 20,000 eventgoers.
Nutritional medicine for osteoarthritis
(Part one)
by John Arts (Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) founder of Abundant Health Ltd
Almost everyone above 60 will have joint tissue degeneration caused by osteoarthritis (OA). Unfortunately, there are few medical options outside of surgery and pain relief; this is one health problem where nutritional therapy can be very helpful.
My discipline of Nutritional Medicine identifies compounds in food and supplements that can stimulate the bodies joint repair processes. The results can be significant and in many cases life-changing.
As an example, I have one client that contacted my last year with pain from hip and knee OA. This restricted him by limiting the exercise he really enjoyed. Now, six months later, he said that the pain had almost gone. He is now exercising and has muchimproved quality of life.
Inflammation is a major part of OA, and can cause more discomfort than actual cartilage loss. OA is a disease of cartilage loss and associated reduction in joint space between the bones of the joint. The main process is the death of specialised cells called chondrocytes that maintain cartilage. Free radical damage and certain enzymes can damage chondrocytes, eventually causing them to die. Unfortunately, chondrocytes cannot replicate, so when they die, the tiny patch
of cartilage it maintained starts to degenerate.
The immune system then tries to heal the problem with inflammation, making the problem worse. Extra fluid accumulates in the joint capsule causing stiffness, pain and swelling in some cases.
An anti-inflammatory diet combined with therapeutic levels of chondroitin sulphate, glucosamine sulphate and curcumin from turmeric can help. Of these, chondroitin is by far the most important. To be effective, chondroitin needs to be at 800mg or more. There are only a few joint supplements that have this amount. Most have either none or very little. I guess that this is because of the high cost of quality chondroitin. Feel free to contact me for a copy of my OA programme.
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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John Arts comments:
“My
Northland Field Days is the north’s premier agricultural event of the year
A season of promise and caution
by Glen Dunseath, CEO NZ operations, Darling Group
As we kick off the New Zealand avocado export season at Darling Group and Just Avocados, there
Early July marked the beginning of what we anticipate being a much better season, in terms of quality, export volume, and market returns. The challenges of the past seasons have not been forgotten, but they have equipped us with valuable lessons and renewed vigour to make changes that will improve outcomes for growers.
This season, the industry has forecast a significant uplift in export volumes, with projections of 3.5 million class one trays compared to last season’s final total of 1.3 million.
Darling Group’s market mix includes Asia, North America and Australia, with approximately one-third of our export volume destined for each of these regions. Early season shipments we sent via airfreight to Thailand and Canada have shown promising results, with fruit arriving and ripening evenly through the supply chain. The real test will come with our first sea freight containers arriving this month.
The Australian market shows potential this season due to reduced competition from Queensland and Western Australia, where weather events have impacted crop volumes. However, this opportunity may be limited to this season, and the long-term focus for our New Zealand avocados remains in Asia, with North
America also emerging as a market with growth opportunity.
In Asia, reduced competition from Peru and Mexico provides a favourable environment for New Zealand exporters this season. Peru’s season is expected to finish earlier than in previous years, and Mexico’s shift towards the US
market reduces their presence in Asia. This creates a smoother transition for our avocados to enter this market.
Initial indications for orchard gate returns for fruit marketed by Darling Group in export markets are encouraging, with class one fruit forecast to achieve over $15 a tray for sizes 16–
24 CT. For class two exports of the same premium sizes, we anticipate returns between $10 and $12, and class three between $5 and $7. While these figures are estimates, they reflect our cautious optimism as we finalise market plans and assess fruit quality.
Despite the promising start to the season, it is important to temper expectations with a dose of realism. The avocado industry has entered a new era, where the exceptionally high returns enjoyed five years ago are unlikely to be seen again. Market dynamics have shifted, and while opportunities abound, they come with increased competition and varying demand patterns. Early export packouts have varied significantly, ranging from very good in the 70% plus level to very poor, a reminder of last season’s average sitting in the 30% range.
With the inevitable variability in markets, it is vital for growers to focus on the factors they can influence, such as costs on orchard, consistent production and improvements to quality to influence their profitability equation. Darling Group will continue to push for positive change in all areas of the supply chain by embracing innovation and strategic partnerships, while maintaining our focus on quality.
Just Avocados began packing for export in early July with volumes airfreighted to Thailand and Canada
An agronomic odyssey
by Andy Bryenton
A nationwide contest to find the pick of the crop in the arable farming sector has turned up innovators, leaders and recordbreaking veterans.
The sector of the rural economy dealing mainly in growing crops is often a silent partner to the dairy sector, but the tonnes of grain grown by agronomists, as they’re known, is as vital to New Zealand as anything found in your fridge.
Like annual awards in other areas of farming expertise, the 2024 Arable Awards seek to foster excellence and promote innovation, giving accolades to those advancing the industry into a sustainable and more profitable future.
“The awards are about celebrating all that’s good in our arable sector — the innovation, commitment and achievements of the best of us,” said Federated Farmers arable chair and event spokesperson David Birkett.
“It hasn’t been an easy season for arable farmers, with rising costs and
variable returns, so it’s great to see a strong crop of high-calibre award entries this year.”
Those fiscal and economic pressures are being felt across the rural sector, but the answer, in arable cultivation as in other spheres, is a reasoned, scientific approach. Part of that approach is in making sustainability pay, and that’s the focus of one of the awards categories, the Positive Environmental Impact Award. Another, the Innovation Award, recognises fresh ideas that will bear future dividends.
“I’m excited about the finalists for those categories because they’re all people helping us to create a stronger and more sustainable arable sector,” says Mr Birkett.
Finalists in the environmental category have taken the initiative on green technologies, such as creating an anaerobic system to reduce the impact of chicken manure, or organising a planting regime for sedimentation control. Researchers and information-
sharing trailblazers are featured strongly in the innovation category, with finalists pioneering new cereal fungicides, new methods of nitrogen fixing in soil, and fresh thinking about preventing disease in barley crops.
The convenor of the judging panel for this year’s awards says that selecting finalists was no easy feat.
“Elevated awareness of environmental impacts shown by finalists across all
award categories,” said Ivan Lawrie, who brought the panel together.
“Managing that impact has been paramount to everyone, and that’s really encouraging. It was hard for the judges to come to a decision. All of them are people we would happily have named as a worthy winner.”
The final call, and the naming of the Arable Awards 2024 Agronomist of the Year, will come late in August.
Federated Farmers arable chair David Birkett is pleased to announce a strong field of finalists in the hunt for the title of Agronomist of the Year
Marvellous maize
by Liz Clark
For nearly 200 years, maize has been continuously grown throughout the country, used as a staple by Māori since the late 18th century and by settlers who turned bush into productive farmland.
These days, developments in genetics and selective breeding have produced varieties and their hybrids that are disease and drought-resistant, resulting in higher yields for each hectare planted. Maize was introduced as early as 1773 and grown by Māori, according to historians. By 1819, it was recorded as being grown by indigenous agriculturalists in significant numbers. Varieties included Marigold, Motiti, Horsetooth and many more distinct varieties have been developed since.
Missionary Samuel Marsden recorded in his diary in 1819: ‘A considerable quantity of ground had been broken up and partly planted with maize. The grains were near together, which would prevent the growth of the plant. I showed them how we planted our maize ... the chief saw immediately the advantage of giving the plant sufficient room and directed his people to follow the instructions I had given them.’
In 1826, it was recorded David Taiwhanga was growing maize at Kaikohe under missionary instruction.
It contributed significantly towards the bartering system used by Māori and Europeans to the advantage of both cultures. Before 1850, much of the production was centred on Northland. Figures in the South Island showed that little more than one acre of maize had been planted as a crop, with no interest in its commercialisation as a major commodity for agricultural feed at the time. Climatic conditions, too, may have contributed to its lack of popularity in the southern regions.
Since its introduction during the past 200 years, maize has developed further with the introduction of US varieties. Multiple companies specialising in maize seed and production have proliferated nationwide, offering farmers viable feed crop options for their stock. Areas less than five hectares planted in maize aren’t considered financially viable. Throughout the country, large areas of maize production are seen on dairy and mixed farms to provide feed for stock and are considered one of the easiest crops to grow.
Ben McLennan
Maize has been grown nationwide for nearly two hundred years
THE BUZZ ABOUT BEES
ADVERTORIAL
American foulbrood detection
The Foster Method, of swabbing hives for American foulbrood (AFB), was first developed by dnature in a response to making the testing for AFB easier for beekeepers.
Before this new method of testing, dnature was already heavily involved in the apiculture industry with a suite of apiculture-specific PCR tests for varroa, nosemas, etc, and American foulbrood.
The Foster Method was based on an idea that technical manager John Mackay, himself a hobbyist beekeeper, had in make sampling for American foulbrood a less onerous task.
Developed six years ago, before we were swabbing ourselves for Covid-19 testing, the proof of principle that swabbing could be used on a beehive underwent significant testing to ensure that this method was going to be as, if not more, sensitive, than the original PCR test that had been offered.
The development programme involved nationwide assistance by beekeepers, who provided samples, to ensure that
the method, involving swabbing the baseboard of a hive, was fast, convenient and sensitive. The result of all this work meant a test was developed that was also able to detect the disease even before visual symptoms were apparent.
Assistance for this project also came from apiculture stalwart, Barry Foster, for whom this method was named after.
Earlier this year, the method was published in the Journal of Apiculture Research acknowledging that it was novel.
Dnature is always happy to discuss this method with beekeepers as a tool, along with visual inspection, for the management of American foulbrood to understand the prevalence of AFB in beehives. Further information is available at dnature.co.nz and a video on how to sample beehives under our testing services.
The Foster Method developed by dnature helps in the detection of American foulbrood in hives
Better home and living
Concrete can be a stunner
by Liz Clark
Twenty years ago, when my home was built with a concrete slab as the foundation, rather than timber piles, the dilemma of what to do with it on a tight budget was difficult.
On the builder’s recommendation at the time, it was hastily sealed with a layer of cheap acrylic paint in the hope it would last. A few mats on the floor, and it was done. However, in high-traffic areas like the kitchen and living room, it wore off after a few years, and it was back to square one.
Concrete is far from cold — just the opposite. It gathers heat during the day and gives it off at night, resulting in a warm home in winter. The options available compared to that 20 years ago are now numerous. If you’re building using a concrete slab foundation, polishing it can be a great and cost-effective way to have a beautiful floor that will last a long time. Numerous companies nationwide have proliferated and offer several options, including fine polishing, acid edging and adding colour. The price ranges from $40 a square metre and beyond. It can be as costly as putting down carpet and linoleum. Still, once done, the extras won’t be needed, and it will save the budget in the long run. A good pour for a slab should result in a crack-free finish. However, things can go slightly askew, which results in hairline cracks coming through after polishing. They
add to the
a whole — consider them part of the process. If the budget is tight and polishing isn’t an option, there’s now an extensive range of hard-wearing specialised concrete surface paints available to beautify your floors. Cracks can be filled with a specialised filler from your local paint specialist, which should be done before going any further. The floor must be
Quality Family Home Specialists
dust-free and clean before proceeding. Applying two coats of concrete undercoat are required before applying the top coats of colour. The undercoat can be tinted so it’s the same colour as the final top coat. If you’re adventurous, a concrete benchtop, either coloured or highly polished, can add something special to your kitchen. There are specialists available that can help provide the best
options and colour choices where required to produce a long-lasting and beautiful surface. Cleaning is easy. Hot, soapy water and a sponge will keep the surface clean and intact. Talk to your local concrete professional about options for your home.
Concrete is a versatile and enduring product that can give a stylish finish to your home can
character of the floor as
Lifestyle BlockS
Dreaming of transforming
Whether you’re building your dream home, subdividing your land for your children’s first homes, cultivating a lifestyle property, protecting native bush or developing a wetland subdivision, each path presents complex challenges.
STEEL FRAMED KITSET BUILDINGS
Here are four essential factors to consider before you start:
1. Strong project management is crucial. At Cato Bolam, our experienced directors and project managers are here to guide you through every step, from our initial meeting to managing the resource consent process. We handle the details so you can focus on your vision and the day-to-day operation of your farm.
at navigating it efficiently, expediting paperwork, reducing delays and keeping your project on track.
2. Thorough due diligence is key. Understanding all aspects of your property, including rules, regulations, site constraints and opportunities, is not just important — it’s crucial. Our experts at Cato Bolam will quickly identify your options, providing the information you need to make informed decisions.
3. Expertise in resource consenting is a must. The resource consenting process can be complex and timeconsuming. Our planners and rural land development experts are skilled
4. The benefits of a multidisciplinary team can’t be overstated. Our team at Cato Bolam includes project managers, planners, engineers, surveyors, architects and environmental specialists. This collaborative approach ensures all project aspects are aligned from the start, leading to smoother progress and fewer delays. Cato Bolam’s integrated
approach and comprehensive project management not only bring your vision to life but also alleviate client stress from concept to completion. With our extensive expertise in rural and residential land development, we will partner with you to make the journey as smooth as possible.
Contact your local land development experts at 0800 2 CATOBOLAM for an obligation-free discussion, or visit our website catobolam.co.nz.
Unlocking your land’s full potential requires careful planning and expert guidance
Lifestyle BlockS
Every electrical need met
Locally owned and operated, Northland Refrigeration and Electrical provides a wraparound service for all farm buildings with expertise in electrical and refrigeration.
“Doing my apprenticeship building dairy factories with the likes of the refinery, I have a heavy industry background,” said owner Jake Cochrane.
“The job requires a lot of thinking, and I enjoy the challenge of fixing something and keeping it going to help farmers and businesses run. Later on, I moved into refrigeration, which is more technical.”
Jake branched out to build his own business and, in 2023, Northland Refrigeration and Electrical began. With his expanded expertise, he can take care of all needs for pump and farm sheds.
“It is easier to look after farm sheds and pump sheds, because it is easier to take care of the whole shed rather than have a different tradesperson for every aspect of the shed.
“I mainly work in industrial, quarries and rural settings, providing refrigeration and electrical services, and specialise in anything that involves
control circuits and pumps. My wife Tiffany helps organise and manage specific aspects to keep everything running smoothly.”
Providing quality service promptly is important to Jake, a trait that has earned him excellent customer feedback. Clients have praised Jake for his availability, tidy work and integrity.
“When clients have breakdowns, I turn up, regardless of the time or weather, and keep them going so they can avoid financial losses.
“My customers are not another number on the box, we care about the farms and keeping everything going because, without them, the whole industry struggles.
“Being a small business, we care more and take more pride in what we do with more attention to detail than the competition. Our prices are competitive with everyone else, but people get more value for their money.”
NAIT review underway
by Colin Hannah, Federated Farmers Northland president
We now represent around 500 farmers in Northland, who are members of our organisation.
They understand the importance of biosecurity and the place that NAIT plays in our biosecurity system.
NAIT is an online tool used to provide fast and accurate tracing of NAIT animals through an ear tag that is scanned and digitally recorded. The animal identification programme also supports disease management in New Zealand and is currently undergoing a three-yearly review.
Our Northland executive team, who cover a range of different bovine farming operations in beef, dairy and grazing, have been mulling over the issues and improvements that can be made to the NAIT system.
Systems such as NAIT are often designed by people who sit in offices and fail to recognise that many farmers are one-man bands. Farming operations don’t always work like clockwork and are often impacted by things outside of the farmer’s control to record within the time frames required by the system.
Fundamental to any biosecurity system is recording of animals at birth date and at place of birth, registering the movement of animals beyond the place of birth and recording of animals exiting out of NAIT system.
While there is not space in this column to list all our recommendations for improvement to the programme, the
following suggestions give some good flavour of our thoughts.
Tags often come out of the ear when animals rub their heads on trees or the tags and snagged by fencing wire. So because of lost tags, huge numbers are unaccounted for in the system, and that is a large overhead and cost for our identification system. It is worth noting that not all deaths on large farms are recorded in the NAIT system.
On beef breeding cow farms, calf tagging is often not done at birth because of danger with infrequently handled cows or even breed. So, tagging may not be done until calves are brought in for drenching, vaccination or even dehorning. This delay can be because of health and safety. With DNA capability, calves can be matched to mothers at a date later than birthdate.
Incidents such as Cyclone Gabrielle and major flood events mean farmers must drop everything to contend with the emergency, damage at hand, welfare needs of the cattle and family and neighbours. This creates substantial delays in dealing with recording issues, which then make the NAIT rules unworkable.
Observed that some larger farmers with lease blocks spread around the region don’t do transfer of animals between
locations, which could be a biosecurity risk for neighbours. The current situation means that there is no way of calculating of how many animals are in New Zealand.
In addition, in the Northland region we still have poor Internet connections in some localities, and we also have several farmers who are not computer savvy, and this is usually due to an age factor.
I look forward to updating you on the outcomes of the NAIT review.
• Avoid costly penalties
• Repair lactose/acid erosion to cowshed/dairies/vat stands/walls
• Repair unhygienic cracks
• Strengthens concrete under heavy use
• Also for abattoirs, butcheries, chicken farms etc
• No smell (low V.O.C.) volatile organic compounds
• No downtime
• Site Safe Accredited
OUR BUSINESS IS GROWING CLOVER
Fertiliser products for healthier stronger pastures
Fertco offers the New Zealand agricultural industry some of the most effective soil and plant nutrient products on the market today. Fertilisers that can deliver you a better return and often are kinder to our environment at the same time.
Colin Hannah, Federated Farmers Northland president
ADVERTORIAL
Breeding better beef
120 YEARLING ANGUS BULLS
at our Annual On Farm Sale and Hybrid Auction
With spring just around the corner, Northland Hereford Breeders’ Association members are gearing up to meet the demand for Hereford bulls during the spring bull selling season.
Tuesday 3rd September 2024, at 12.30pm
THE
of New Zealanders are concerned about “fake news” and its implications
Hereford cattle are one of the oldest established cattle breeds in New Zealand, and the popularity of the versatile breed has never waned.
Hereford-cross cattle have a reputation for gaining a premium at the saleyards, and the breeders aim to produce bulls that are suitable for both the beef and dairy sectors. They have a detailed knowledge of the pedigrees and genetic characteristics of their cattle, which gives their customers certainty about the history of the bulls they are buying. The breeders can also advise buyers about the suitability of the bulls for mating to both cows and heifers.
This year, seven breeders are offering bulls during the spring sale season, through on-farm auctions and private treaty sales. The bulls offered for sale range in age from yearlings to 15 months old, 18 months old and rising two-year-olds.
Northland Hereford Breeders’ Association members are located in areas from the Far North to Kaipara, so they have the needs of Northland farmers covered — see details in our advert below.
- versatile proven performers
Northland Hereford Breeders Association members have Hereford bulls for sale for the upcoming season
Sale by Private Treaty of 2Yr bulls Contact: Bill Grounds 09 409 5521
On farm sale - 29 August 2024: 70 R2Yr, 18mth & yearling bulls
Contact: Philip Shepherd 021 526 009 (Otengi) / philip@otengiherefords.co.nz
Polled
Sale by Private Treaty of R2Yr bulls
/ ianclements41@yahoo.co.nz
Contact: Brian Coutts 09 433 8335 / coutts.wyborn@actrix.co.nz
Paddock sales of 2yr and yearling bulls Contact: Ian McInnes (09) 433 8431 / maruaherefords@farmside.co.nz
Sale by Private Treaty of 90 x 15mths bulls
Contact: Paul Shepherd (09) 405 0294 or 021 893 644 (Waimaire) Te Puna
Contact: Sam Biddles 027 566 6558 / srkrbiddles@gmail.com
Sale by Private Treaty of 18mth & Yearling bulls
Contact: Cam Gerrard 021 032 8281
Philip Shepherd and Paul Shepherd (Otengi/Waimaire Herefords) and Ian McInnes (Marua Herefords)
Northland Hereford Breeders’ Association members: (left to right) Emma, Carolyn and Cam Gerrard ( Te Puna Herefords), Bill Grounds (Pampas Lane Herefords), Kate and Sam Biddles (Kaipara Herefords), Ian Clements (Matapouri Herefords) and Brian Coutts (Wyborn Herefords)
Wyborn Herefords (Whangarei)
Matapouri
Herefords (Whangarei)
Pampas Lane Herefords (Kaitaia)
Marua Herefords (Whangarei)
Otengi & Waimaire Polled Herefords (Kaeo)
Herefords (Okaihau)
Kaipara Herefords (Pouto)
by Andy Bryenton
Passing on a solid legacy
Edmonds and Mason Panelbeaters and Painters
back on four wheels since back in the 1970s
The Edmonds part of the name, represented today by Ian Edmonds, has been proudly displayed on their signage since early in that decade, when the Kiwi motoring fleet ran heavily into big sixes and eights. Times change, and cars with them. By 1994, Wayne Mason had entered the partnership, beginning a three-decade-long association that started just a little bit earlier outside the trade. That’s because Ian used to be Wayne’s rugby coach.
Something that’s important to Ian and Wayne is a strong future for panel beating, painting and auto glass replacement, their chosen field of expertise. That’s why they have a particular dedication to training up new apprentices in the proper old-school skills of the craft. Three young people have gained their qualification on the job at Edmonds and Mason in the past year, two of them panelbeaters, Isaac Merton and Len Donnell, gaining their certification at the same time.
“I started as an apprentice myself in 1979, and while some of the techniques have changed, the same attitude is important for someone wanting to gain their skills. We always look for someone
who is keen to learn, who will get off of their backside and put in an honest effort,” says Wayne.
Those qualities, and a good work ethic, have carried a lot of apprentices through their three-year tenure to qualification under Ian and Wayne’s supervision. With their own formidable level of expertise, the two business owners are more than qualified to pass on good habits and important lessons about getting vehicles back in top shape.
“Of course, apprenticeships now are a bit quicker than they used to be. It was once not uncommon for them to last four years or more. So, there’s a lot to learn after the official apprenticeship is over, and work is a learning process for everyone,” says Wayne. Warkworth is getting busier all the time, and Edmonds and Mason is a hive of activity, making sure that their local clientele are looked after. Some customers, says Wayne, have been coming in since he first joined up, a sure sign that they’re
pleased with the service. If you’re in need of some TLC for your car, van, ute or anything on wheels, talk to the longestablished team who are sharing their knowledge with a new generation. They’ll get you back up and running in no time.
Freshly minted: panelbeaters Isaac Merton and Len Donnell of Edmonds and Mason proudly show off their qualifications
Farming & Lifestyle
LAWN SEED/PASTURE SEED/FENCING Reels and Standards from Northland Seed, Okara Drive, Whangarei. Phone 09 438 0884. Fencing
FENCING, ALL types of fencing, pool, stockyards, post & rail, boundary plus... call Jeff 027 476 5458. For Sale
HERITAGE APPLE TREES - Hardy root stocksDiversify your Farm with an Orchard pack www. tastytrees.co.nz, call 09 408 5443 or text 027 346 7645.
NEW YAMAHA FARM ATVS — 5.9% interest & 3 year warranty. Only at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi — phone 080 096 3636 & Yamaha MC Whangarei. Ph 09 438 0804.
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. Ph 080 096 3636. www.atvtyres.co.nz. Subject to availability.
ATV MATS from $89 — Come in & see us at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Ph 080 096 3636. www.atvtyres.co.nz. Garden Services
SEED POTATOES / GARLIC, New Seasons, FERTILISER – Organic Blood & Bone, Citrus, General plus more from Northland Seed, Okara Drive, Whangarei. Phone 09 438 0884 Wanted To Buy
Livestock
FREE-FLOW FROZEN DOG CHUNKS / MINCE. DOG / PUPPY BISCUITS — no artificial colour or preservatives, CHICKEN FEED / BIRDSEED / RAT BAIT from Northland Seed, Okara Drive, Whangarei. Phone 09 438 0884
LUCERNE CHAFF plus more HORSE FEED, CALF
REARERS get your Milk Powder and Meal from Northland Seed, Okara Drive, Whangarei. Phone 09 438 0884.
ARBORIST & TREE WORK
trimming, pruning, removal, chipping. Northland’s only Truck and Grapple Saw for large/tricky
