March 2022 Edition
Plans afoot for field days’ future Pages 33
Farmers helping families
P4
Helping protect community
P10
Professional hunters in forest cull
P20
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MARch 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
Rural issues
by Dr Shane Reti, National Party list MP
Last week, I had a Zoom meeting with 25 orchardists from Whangārei. It was the second Zoom meeting we have organised for local agriculture people, and as with the first, it was very well received.
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Dr Shane Reti
There were a number of topics they wanted to talk about. Top of the list was the National Party position on Three Waters. I was able to reiterate that if we We’ll match their price and throw in a little thing called service! are privileged to be in government next year, then we will repeal Three Waters. Unit 16, Opua Marine Park www.catermarine.co.nz In our view, it is an asset grab that we Baffin Street, Opua will have no part of. There were then 0800 228 376 several discussions on agricultural sector Bay of Islands workforce shortages and the challenge this presents. Under Covid, the border settings for workers have generally not been welcoming, the shortages were a problem before Covid, and now it is even worse. As I write this, the Covid numbers are soaring, and one can imagine how workers already Test instructions vary Testdepending instructions on vary thedepending brand. Many onrapid the brand. antigen Many testing rapid kitsantigen generally testing kits generally here may potentially be affected, which follow the instructions follow below, the instructions but not all. Please below, but follow notthe all.manufacturer’s Please follow the instructions. manufacturer’s instructions. will further exacerbate the problem. There Collecting sample a sample Collecting aa sample Collecting was a lot of interest in general Covid and related 4 health discussions that I was able 2a nasal 2 3 3 swab4into one 1 1 Remove Insert the to swap my MP hat for an MD hat and swab from the of your nostrils up to pouch. 2-3cm from the edge of contribute to. the nostril. e y brand. depending Manyon rapid the brand. antigen Many testing rapid kitsantigen generally testing kits generally Many in the group were also concerned ns ll. Please below,follow but not the all.manufacturer’s Please follow the instructions. manufacturer’s instructions. for our freight and logistics chains and how this might affect our international exports. mple Remove a nasal swab Remove Insert a nasal the swab into one Insert of the Slowly swab rollinto the one swab of5 Slowly Check roll thethe swab kit box 5 Check the kit box There was an interesting suggestion that from the pouch. from the your pouch. nostrils up to 2-3cm your nostrils times up over tothe 2-3cm surface times over instructions the surface to confirminstructions the to confirm the
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You can now order rapid antigen tests (RATs) via this website https://requestrats.covid19.health.nz/
Here to help Chris Penk MP for Kaipara ki Mahurangi
- Testing guidance
Testing guidance - Household Contact Reading your result Reading your result
we hire or buy our own container ships to reduce reliance on overseas carriers. It is at a time when Marsden Refining starts irreversibly decommissioning the oil refinery. Correct me if I am wrong, but weren’t the reasons it was built the same reasons to consider owning our own container ships, namely to reduce our reliance on overseas interests? Closing Marsden is another short-sighted decision that is already having a $25 million ripple effect on water revenue that Whangārei District Council was receiving from Marsden. This ripple effect through other industries also applies to agriculture, with figures suggesting that $1 from dairy turns over eight times through local communities and six times for beef and lamb. During the next month, I will be forming other local agriculture Zoom groups where I will make myself available every quarter to discuss agriculture issues of concern to you. So please email me if you would like to be involved at Shane.Reti@parliament. govt.nz.
chris.penkmp@parliament.govt.nz 09 412 2496
indicate the test is positive. indicate the test is positive.
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Dr Shane Reti List MP based in Whangarei
Household contact - means you live in the same house as someone who has shane.reti@parliament.govt.nz Positive Positive COVID-19 09 438 9992 Two lines, one next to C andTwo lines, one next to C and COVID-19.
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one next to T (even faint lines) one next to T (even faint lines) indicate the test is positive.indicate the test is positive.
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NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
MARch 2022
Funding for community planting projects
3
by Paul Campbell
Applications are open for New Zealand Forest Service projects to encourage communities to take up planting projects to honour local heroes.
Belinda Miller — senior forestry adviser
together to share food and remember loved ones is at the heart of Matariki and planting trees is a fitting way to celebrate. “A terrific example of a 2021 Matariki planting event was at Maeroa Intermediate School in Hamilton, where students collected seed, propagated the seedlings in their shade house, planted the trees, and are now maintaining their new forest and ‘outdoor classroom’ at their school. “These small forests that are planted through the programme provide
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important resources for communities to spend time in nature. Our hope is that these forests provide spaces for communities to enjoy for generations to come.
“For more information or to apply for a grant, visit the Matariki Tu Rākau webpage, contact us at matarikiturakau@mpi.gov.nz, or call 0800 008 333.”
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Since 2018, it has funded 660,000 native trees planted as living memorials at more than 300 events nationwide. It is now accepting applications for 2022, with marae, schools, councils and community conservation groups all encouraged to apply. Senior adviser Belinda Miller says the programme is a great way to honour special people in their communities who have shown exemplary community service or have brought distinction through their work while planting trees in their memory. “Not only is tree planting a wonderful way to commemorate and remember those who were important to us and our communities, it is also a great way to enhance the environment and native biodiversity by restoring and rebuilding our natural habitat and protecting our land, soils and waterways.” Matariki Tu Rākau grants provide funding for native trees and rongoā (traditional Māori medicine) species, land preparation, a plaque and kai for the planting event. It can also contribute to tree maintenance. “The team can help you plan where to plant your memorial, what trees to plant, how to prepare and maintain your planting and how to get the local community involved,” says Ms Miller. Further motivation to apply for a grant this year is that 2022 is the first year of the national Matariki Holiday on Friday, June 24. “Matariki Holiday fits nicely into the planting season. Bringing whānau
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MARch 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
FARMERS HELPING
FAMILIES BY ANN VAN ENGELEN
Dairy farmer Wayne Langford came up with a plan to help supply the need for meat to families struggling across the country.
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“I
live in Golden Bay at the top of the South Island and was blogging my way out of mental health troubles a few years ago on social media as the YOLOFarmerNZ,” says Wayne. YOLO stands for You Only Live Once. “The core idea was to do something every day for our family during my recovery. One day we took some minced meat to the local food bank, and I asked them how long it would last. “The answer was two to three months. We were shocked as it was a fraction of the amount of meat we had in our family freezer. I realised our freezer would feed the whole of Golden Bay for a year, and that got us thinking. “As farmers, we don’t tend to live in food poverty. I thought if we donated one cow annually, no one in our area would go hungry. Then I wondered what it would take to feed other places across New Zealand.
Men from Christchurch City Mission helped a local farmer during the Canterbury floods as a thank you for his donations of meat
“I do public speaking through YOLO, and a guy from Silver Fern Farms heard me at an event. He thought they could get involved and help us out with our idea.
“I am so pleased he offered as we didn’t realise how many health and safety regulations there are around food quality if we tried processing the meat ourselves.
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The value of each animal donated is transferred to mince meat packs, which are sent on a monthly basis to the organisations Meat the Need supports
“We spent a year developing the initiative and brought Siobhan O’Malley on board, who is a West Coast dairy farmer, to help. “We launched Meat the Need during the first lockdown in April 2020 and the rest is history. The project now reaches from Kaitaia to Invercargill, supplying 85 food banks, a few food kitchens and City Missions. “People donate a beast, sheep, deer or lamb through Silver Fern Farms, and we are given a value for the anima,l and the money goes into a food fund.” Meat the Need uses Silver Fern Farms processing, packaging and logistics to move 500g packs of beef mince out to food banks. “The meat is Halal certified, and this is very helpful for food banks, which often work
with refugees and their families. We send out the packs monthly to those we support, so they don’t need big freezers on-site. “Knowing what they get means they can pre-plan their food parcels and add things like pasta and sauces. It also gives community services the ability to teach their clients how to cook nutritious meals with mince if they need to.” In January 2021, Miraka Milk Company in Taupō joined the project supplying UHT milk packs. “Farmers donate the milk, and Miraka package it into UHT parcels. This has helped us provide 92,000 milk meals such as breakfast to areas in Central Plateau, Waikato and down toward Masterton.
“Six litres of milk and a couple of mince packs provide a family with several meals a week. We are hoping to work with another nationwide milk processor too, so we can add mince and milk into every food parcel in New Zealand. “We hear some amazing stories. One young mum recipient had dinner with her children for the first time in a very long time, not being embarrassed with the meal she made, instead a hearty meal with our mince. “Last year during the Canterbury floods, men from the Christchurch City Mission helped a farmer who donated mince pull the flood debris off his fences. One of those men was so inspired he now has a dairy farming job. “Doing this has boosted my mental health, and I learned that giving is a massive part of who I am. I love the challenge of creating something that has so much impact. “Farmers give, knowing it helps others, and businesses can get involved through our rural business campaign. Giving a little bit of what you can, when you can, helps. “Even if it is once every three years, we will have more than enough meat to feed New Zealand.
MARch 2022
“The value of one lamb can keep a rural food bank like Stratford going for a month, while other areas like Kataia receive the value of three to-four lambs, and it makes a massive difference to what they can do. Imagine then what the donation of a cow could do. “We also help Sir Michael Jones Food Bank and Dave Latele’s BBM Motivation and Food Bank in South Auckland. “The volume we send goes far, and that is what keeps me going — we achieve that which is achievable. “One farmer has donated 35 lambs, one on every couple of truckloads he sends out. Having a regular supply from farmers helps us take on more food banks and reach even more Kiwis that need our help right now. “As farmers, we grow food. Our role in the community is to make sure everyone gets fed. It’s a powerful gift to be able to help someone with something as basic as food, especially when we grow so much. “To get on board, talk to your Silver Fern Farms agent, or if you supply another processor, you can donate a virtual sheep, beast, lamb or deer by contacting us at meattheneed.org.”
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MARch 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
SMOKING FINE
DELICACIES BY ANN VAN ENGELEN Growing up in Northland gave Kerry Le Gallais many different life experiences, including tasting smoked cheese in recent years, which became a passion.
“M
y wife Lynnette and I tried some smoked cheese for the first time five years ago,” says Kerry. “We really liked it, and Lynnette thought I would be able to master making my own. “I experimented, and it was so nice I was giving it away, and one day Lynette said I needed to start selling it instead of giving it away.” Big K’s Cheese now has 14 cheeses, four smoked butter and a creamy blue mayo dip. “The first cheese I experimented with was a mild, Edam and a Colby. I then moved on to Danish Havarti and started going to the Hikurangi market. “I went from there to Tūtūkākā, and now I go to the Old Packhouse Market in Kerikeri once a fortnight. I recently secured a licence to sell on Hatea Drive
in Whangārei and have the A Grade council approval. “I source my products from On The Run distributors as I believe in using local, when possible, and they have been extremely supportive. “A cheese can take up to six hours to cold smoke. I naturally cold smoke my products with mānuka, and there are no additives. “I work as a painter full-time and do my cheese in the evenings. Lynnette prepares them and helps pack them, and we courier across the country. I couldn’t do it without her. “I enjoy going to the markets and showing people something new. I am the only person who smokes cheese here that I know of and have also been asked to go to Auckland and Hawke’s Bay.
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Using the cold smoke method, the cheeses can take up to six hours in Kerry’s council-approved smoker
“I worked out of a gazebo for three years until I found my food van. It is nice not
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NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
Kerry travels to places such as the old Packhouse Market in Kerikeri and also parks Hatea Drive Whangārei in his purpose-bought cheese van
“I open up the van, and the cheese is ready to go with the EFTPOS right there too. People love trying the samples. “I love teaching people about what the different cheeses are. An epicure is a cheddar that is aged for 36 months, a vintage is aged for 24 months, and a noble is a stronger cheddar. “Gruyere is sweet but slightly salty, with a flavour that varies widely with age, and Gouda is a sweet, creamy, yellow cow’s milk cheese originating from the Netherlands. “Brie is a soft cheese named after Brie, the French region from which it originated. It is pale in colour with a slight greyish tinge under a rind. “Camembert is often compared to brie and is moist, soft, creamy, and surfaceripened. It came from Camembert, Normandy, in north-west France.
“Blue cheese is a handmade semi-soft cheese made with cultures of a strain of the mould penicillium, giving it spots or veins of the mould throughout the cheese of various shades of blue and green, and it has a distinct smell. “Havarti is a semi-soft Danish cheese and can be sliced, grilled, or melted. Each cheese changes with smoking. The creamy blue becomes nice and smooth with a smoke flavour, and it adds a different texture to the cheese itself. It is great for cheese boards and things. “With the harder cheeses, we eat it on bagels with salmon along with the smoked creamy blue — it is beautiful. The softer types are great on pizzas or crackers. Anything you use normal cheese for you can use smoked for, including baked potato or macaroni cheese.
MARch 2022
Kerry and Lynnette encourage people to try Big K’s smoked cheese and butters on their BBQs and steak meals after a hard day on the farm or while relaxing with friends and family
“My creamy blue is good on steak or portobello mushroom after a hard day out on the farm or when you get together with your mates after making hay. The blue really gives a great flavour. “I think it is really important for people to catch up with friends and family, especially if you live in the country. Having dinners and BBQs where you can have nice food is always good for the soul. Adding cheese boards and salads always adds colour to a table. “I branched into herb, chilli, garlic and normal smoked butter as well. Guys love cooking with them too.
“The garlic butter is popular as a pizza base, and the chilli butter guys also use on their steak once it is cooked, it has a slight bite. “People use my smoked creamy blue mayo as a dip with fresh vegetables or hot chips. “Caring for cheese is easy. Keep it chilled and once opened, it is best to consume it within seven days. “All my cheese comes from New Zealand, and I love that we are supporting our farmers and helping keep the industry cycle going around.”
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MARch 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
ELIMINATING
ENVIRONMENTAL PESTS BY ANN VAN ENGELEN Based in Kaiwaka, Russell Plunkett and Hannah Davies are helping to eradicate pest animals and birds such as possums and turkeys to help protect native plants and animal grazing.
“H
annah is a Mangawhai girl, and I am a Paparoa farm boy,” says Russell. “I am a labourer, and Hannah works in building administration. I have been involved in hunting and shooting since I was a child and dislike pests, so the two go hand in hand. “When we were young, we did a little bit of hunting with our dad. I love being out there stalking pigs and deer in the peace and quiet of the bush and coming away with food at the end. “I make it my business and priority to keep our native trees, flora, fauna and wildlife protected. “We started Zero Pest Northland because I have been eradicating pest animals and birds for years. I completed
an online course last year through Land Based Training to gain my NZ Certificate in Pest Operations and Management Level 3. “It was a good experience, and I learned many aspects of pest control. I now call my tutor Cam a mate, and he has guided me through many different areas. I am also very proactive in keeping poisons off the land and offer a solution to the standard poisons and baits. “Poison can take several days to kill something but with shooting — it is done as quickly as possible. “We also monitor and see if there is a larger problem than people think. I travel as far as people need us to go when practical and our health and safety are all in the plan. “We look at the pest problem and establish a plan that works with the farmer or property owner. We work around stock and take the pest carcasses away unless otherwise organised.
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Hedgehogs not only eat pet food and raid chicken nests — they are also capable of spreading diseases such as ringworm
“Preventing pests is a hard thing to accomplish at times. A possum will make its home wherever it wants. They get into houses and buildings and eat everything from fruit, seeds and leaves to bird’s eggs and chicks, including natives such as tūi and fantail.
“We get quite a few possums out of pine blocks. They can do significant damage to young pine trees by nibbling them and using them as a thoroughfare breaking branches. Some people like us to leave the possum carcass as this draws the pigs, and they hunt them.
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THANK YOU Russell Plunkett and Hannah Davies started Zero Pest Northland as a way to help keep native trees, plants and birdlife protected from pest animals and birds
“Hannah and I removed every non-native tree from our property and planted natives. People don’t realise how many native plants we are losing to possums and the like. Once our natives are gone, they will be gone forever. “With some education, people would realise the benefit native trees over nonnative. Non-native often smell and look pretty but attract possums to bird nests, including tūi, kererū and fantail, which they prey on for the eggs and chicks. “When I am out hunting, I target pests such as goats, deer, turkey, hedgehogs, peacocks, rabbits, hare and possums. “Some people think hedgehogs are cute little things, but they are actually very harmful to our insects, seedlings and plants.
“They get into pet and chicken feed and will eat chickens and eggs. If they have diseases such as mange, ringworm, mites, fleas or salmonella, these can spread to humans, pets and farm animals. “Seven to ten rabbits eat the same amount as one sheep in a day, so it isn’t long before the stock pasture is gone. “Rabbits not only take our grass, they also dig and can cause a $20,000 bull or horse to break its leg by stepping in a hole. “We know that pest control can be a luxury item, but it is well worth the money. I look at the pest problems and give advice on a management plan. People can contact us on the Zero Pest Northland Facebook page.
Russell teaches his daughters Laykn and Neeve the importance of eliminating pest birds and animals to protect New Zealand’s native wildlife and plants
“Property owners are very grateful for the job we do as they see the vegetation growth after a few visits. If we eliminate a few pests each time, we will get on top of all pests. “The more we do, the better off our beautiful country and bush will be. That is the prime reason we do what we do, to help protect New Zealand’s biodiversity and environment and keep our food and landscape safe. “We have one of the most beautiful countries there is, so why not look after it. Having no pests makes for happier farm animals, and happy farm animals make happy farmers, which makes a happier New Zealand in general.”
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MARch 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
SPOTLIGHT ON K AITAIA
HELPING PROTECT
COMMUNITY BY ANN VAN ENGELEN
Kaitāia Volunteer Fire Brigade deputy chief fire officer Ross Beddows joined the fire service at 20 years old and encourages others, especially the younger generation, to take up the challenge.
“I
grew up in Kaitāia and moved to work at the Kauri dairy factory near Hikurangi when they closed the Awanui factory,” says Ross. “The Hikurangi Fire Brigade was recruiting volunteer firefighters who did shift work as they needed people available in the daytime and a work colleague recommended I join. “Being younger, it was physical and exciting, with good comradery. It was a
good way to meet people and help the community. My wife Bronwyn and I came home to Kaitāia in 2005, and I transferred to the brigade here. “It was a lot different back then as we mainly attended fires and motor vehicle accidents. The structure has changed over the years, and we now co-respond with St John to medical events as we are part of Fire and Emergency NZ.
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“Now we are very much integrated with women as well, and that is a good thing because they are very capable and make great firefighters. “Each brigade has different contracts around the country. There is a wide range of situations that we tend to, and we gain a lot of skills and training. Our station is Purple, and we help with cardiac arrests and things. “Kaitāia is a very busy brigade with more than 400 calls per year. We can have more than one call a day, and our family and employers are the two groups we rely on very heavily. “Families need to be understanding as they miss out on a lot of things. We could be at a dinner and need to leave to attend an event. We appreciate the sacrifice employers make, too, as some businesses can’t release their staff so easily, and it is a commitment for them too. “Brigade comradery is very strong, and you make friends for life. We have to rely on each other, including with crews
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Dion Reid, Bernadine Leef and Ross Beddows outside the Te Kao store enjoying ice creams generously bought for the team by a member of the public after a car accident
from other towns. Sometimes we work in dangerous situations, and you have to be confident that your crew have got your back.
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MARch 2022
SPOTLIGHT ON K AITAIA
The crew after a vegetation fire near Kaitāia, from left Aaron Hartnell, Phil Andresen, Kelly Strong, Ross Beddows, Bernadine Leef, Calley Osborne and Brian Shepherd
“We do things like getting a budgie out from behind a freezer to small fires and horrific incidents. We are always professional and know people are watching whether we are saving a life with police and ambulance staff or fighting a scrub fire. “The brigade sticks together, and each member works hard to earn the trust of our crew. There is sadness at times when we attend incidents involving friends and family, so you have to be able to handle some of those things, but the organisation offers a lot of support. “The Kaitāia brigade has around 35 operational members, and quite a few live out of town, so we have a night roster system so they can come in and stay. “If we go to medical and life-threatening call-outs and are not needed, we are turned back, but more often than not, we are needed.
“There is a big burden on brigades like Kaikohe, Kerikeri, Ahipara and Kohukohu. They struggle with people coming forward to volunteer. This means we have to go further from home and give up more time. “In summer, we battle scrub fires, and weather events are common too now. If there is a big storm and people are scared something is going to happen to them, they ring 111, and more often than not, the fire brigade helps.” Ross says things like fires should be decreasing due to the continuing fire safety education. “A good brigade has a good chief, deputy and officer team and firefighters. Once you become a firefighter, even if you leave, there is always a pull to rejoin when you are older. “We have a succession plan, and like young people to come through, so they can step up through the ranks.
Firefighters Dani Elliott (right) and John Hartnell extinguish a tractor fire in Takahue
“The structure is good for teaching the younger generation to have discipline and follow instructions for their future success in life. “You have to be trained, so everyone is reliable, and when the chief works out the plan, you can do your job safely in the realm of your training. “If an officer says this is what is happening, I need you to do this. They
trust that their team can do it properly to get the job done. “One spark is all it takes to start a devastating wildfire. For more information and fire safety tips, head to checkitsalright. nz before lighting a fire. “If you would like to join the brigade, check out your local brigade Facebook page or fireandemergency. nz website.”
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Claud Switzer Memorial Trust is a care home and hospital in Kaitaia, for elders and younger adults who live with physical disability. As a Charitable Trust with over 65 years of service to the Far North community, Switzer has never forgotten that our service to the community is about people. In 2014 we adopted the Eden Alternative, a philosophy of care dedicated to placing elders at the center of all we do. Eden Alternative principles uniquely guide us to transform the lives of our residents and team. Every day is a gift, our mission is to make sure we add more to the fulfillment and enjoyment of every single one. Our grateful thanks to all who have recently supported our work with your generous time, bequest, or in-kind donation. If you would like to support Claud Switzer Memorial Trust with a donation or legacy, I would love to hear from you.
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12
MARch 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
SPOTLIGHT ON K AITAIA
Far North town on top by Amy Fifita
Kaitāia has won the Most Beautiful Small Town Award for 2021. The town and surrounding areas have blossomed recently and have won them prestige from Keep New Zealand Beautiful (KNZB). KNZB is a non-profitable organisation that started in 1967 to keep New Zealand clean and maintain an attractive country. The organisation first ran these yearly awards in 1972. The 2021 winners were announced at the Beautiful Ball during mid-February this year. “What clinched the award for Kaitāia was the amazing work of our Te Hiku Open Places Revitalisation Project team,” said Far North Mayor John Carter. “With council support, community members have been working for more than a year in Kaitāia, Awanui and Ahipara, creating public artworks and placemaking projects. “These include fantastic public artworks that have gone up along streets and laneways celebrating our whenua and heritage.” Kaitāia has transformed, with residents getting behind projects and renewing their town. The community spirit helped give the township a fresh look celebrating its history and culture. Residents and families brought up in the township and surrounding areas acknowledged the community’s progress. “I love raising my kids here. The people and values of Māori traditions are great. The beauty is more than what it looks like; it’s the community too,” says local businesswoman and mother Whitney-Maree Pickery.
The upcoming generation admiring murals outside the former Warehouse in Kaitāia, (from left to right) Karlos Staub, Zak Pickery, Memphis Pickery, Tarshana Pickery and Texan Pickery
“Kaitāia has a laid back and chilled vibe. The new buildings are making the town more modern, and the ease of all the shops so close together is awesome,” says former resident Nikita Hunt. “I love how you can drive from anywhere and end up in beautiful scenic places within 10 minutes.” Another local, Mataina Staub, reflected on how the town is influenced by traditional values of mana whenua.
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The Kaitāia community has given the town a makeover and upholding the history with Dalmatian Lane
“Influenced by Māori traditional values in the Far North, there is a strong sense of kaitiakitanga towards your town, giving people a mental attitude of looking after the areas you live in. A good mindset where everyone chips in as needed,” she says. Cody Brljevich says: “Kaitāia has a great spirit where the community gets together and recognises history. I’d like to see this continued from younger generations. It’s always home for me.”
Far North Mayor John Carter praised everyone involved in creating a better-looking town. “None of this would have been possible wi th o u t th e vision and leadership shown by our community. “The people of Te Hiku have reminded us exactly how things should be done, and together, they have created a most beautiful small town.”
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Rural drinking water concerns
March 2022
13
by Colin Hannah - Federated Farmers Northland president
Rural New Zealand is acutely aware of an avalanche of new legislation coming their way that is going to impact their lives forever, which is why I want to discuss drinking water supplies. Federated Farmers tried to get officials to understand that this process needed to be reviewed in relation to rural water supplies because now any farmer/landowner who supplies anyone else on their or a neighbouring property will need to be registered with Taumata Arowai. This Water Services Act 2021 is going to impact what you, a farmer/landowner, can do within the vicinity of your water source. Farmers know how to look after themselves and their families, but bureaucrats don’t seem to understand this. Maybe it is a Wellington problem, that they and they alone know what is best for you and I. It is Federated Farmers of New Zealand’s opinion that this reform represents another unneeded and unwanted restriction that will have a chilling effect on rural neighbours’ ability to share water. We do not believe there was any need for the Water Services Act 2021 to apply to rural water-sharing arrangements. Our submission on this part was totally ignored. We firmly believe that changes to the National Environmental Standards for Sources of Human Drinking Water — NES-DW is just another step in the wrong direction. All farmers/landowners and their neighbours want clean water. There is no disputing this. The changes are a redundant one size fits all approach. Farmers know their farms better than legislators and others, and we also know
Colin Hannah — Federated Farmers Northland president
what is required to keep our drinking water safe. Farmers are mindful of this every day. That is why the government is wrong to suggest national regulation will achieve any better outcome than the clean and safe water already shared between households and neighbours. This legislation will impact all of our rural residents throughout Northland. We campaigned for exemption for small rural suppliers.
Suppliers will now have to complete a water safety plan. We are particularly concerned that the complexity, cost and risk may result in unintended consequences of households being disconnected to avoid this regime. As with most things that governments introduce, the costs blow
out beyond the budget, but this time, it is going to impact us all personally. The rules need to be made as simple and low cost as feasible under this new act. Have a look at Taumata Arowai — Citizen Space. It will enlighten and scare you in just what you are in for.
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MARch 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
TO BUILD OR RENOVATE
Virtual spaces, real results
by Andy Bryenton
There’s nothing more solid and concrete than a physical building; concrete is usually a big part of making one. However, modern cloud-based computer technology is changing how designers and builders approach the physical stage of new construction, with the benefit of flexibility and more timely, accurate cost projections. One example of this is the Utecture system, which claims cost savings for builders exceeding 58%. That is achieved by making the plans for a construction project digital and incorporating costing data into them. If a wall is moved, a window added or a doorway changed, the projected costs change too, in a system called ‘live pricing’. Customers have access to the same data as designers and builders, helping keep everyone on the same page. Further gains can be achieved with augmented reality, a system using LCD
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screen transparent lenses to display digital information over a view of the real world. Augmented reality systems allow surveyors to see data from satellites while they are on the ground and can measure in real-time as well, allowing for builders to match digital plans to their real-world work with utter precision. Augmented reality can also allow tradespeople to access information on materials, tools, safety advice and logistics on the job. It will soon be commonplace in the driver’s seats of excavators, cranes and earthmovers. Even more advanced are tools that augment not just the information coming to tradespeople and construction workers but their physical capabilities as well. Once the stuff of science fiction, power gloves, exoskeleton suits and tool support harnesses with artificial ‘muscles’ are being trialled now and could allow workers to wield heavy equipment with no strain or carry large loads effortlessly. Finally, drones look set to have an even more important role in construction. Some will be used for simple tasks such as fetching and carrying tools and consumables to tradespeople up high or in hard to reach places. Others already come equipped with infra-red and thermal cameras to scan for weaknesses, areas
New technologies are already reshaping the building industry, such as drones like the one controlled by these engineers
in need of extra weatherproofing, or areas of excessive stress and strain during the renovation of older buildings.
It all means more scope for high-tech and specialist jobs in the building industry, which is already one of remarkable growth.
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MARch 2022
15
TO BUILD OR RENOVATE by Andy Bryenton
Space saving tips from ships
Space isn’t just the final frontier; it’s something of a premium commodity in modern homes. Breaking down the statistics, we all want to be more efficient with space. Still, the average home has increased in size for the last half-century, and now contains some 300,000 items, from thumbtacks up to lounge suites in size. There is usually three times the number of digital screens in a home as people in 2022, and despite filling every drawer and cranny with things, one in ten of us have rented off-site storage. Small wonder, then, that as people look to tiny house solutions to space and footprint worries, and also to make off the grid living or first home ownership affordable, that there’s a new focus on tall ships. It may seem counterintuitive. The age of sail and piracy seems far away, and homes on land are not wooden vessels on the sea. However, lessons learned the hard way by large crews living in close conditions, working cleverly with wood, can help maximise space in modern homes. The first thing modern designers and renovators have taken from our sailor
ancestors is the use of one space for many things. Old ships used hammocks for sleeping in the same area as fold-down tables for dining and playing games of cards and dice. In a modern home, beds that fold up, descend from the ceiling or stand atop sets of drawers and cupboards make for clever use of space. Tables and surfaces that can fold, split and change their size to accommodate breakfast for one or a dinner party emulate the flexible use of space on old sailing ships too. Everywhere is a space to stow everything aboard a ship of the 1800s. Books and charts were stored under floorboards that could be removed to reveal tight-packed libraries that would not tumble out in a storm. Cupboards and cobbies were installed everywhere, with very little wall space given over to windows or plain paint. Vertical space was used, with storage for uncommonly used items up high, accessed via ladders and long poles on hooks. Perhaps the most important lesson from the old sailing ships of yesteryear, which translates across into creating
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a more compact living space, is the assessment made when setting out on a journey in the first place. Like those olden day sailors, those looking to renovate a space to maximise its utility have to look at the things they will put in. Sometimes our modern tendencies for buying the very biggest is unnecessary or even overkill for the job. If you’re planning to renovate a space for efficiency, take a look at how the shipwrights of nations like Britain and Holland worked smart in the age of sail and incorporate some of their top tricks into your repertoire.
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MARch 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
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NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
MARch 2022
17
TO BUILD OR RENOVATE
Renewable plan hints at home solutions
by Andy Bryenton
Northland may soon be host to the nation’s first renewable energy zone after national electricity authority Transpower recommended exploring the option earlier this month. In effect, the trial would make it easier for those seeking to generate renewable energy to set up shop and generate in the north. Still, there’s a strong reason why this region was chosen for the test case. It all comes down to the conditions prevailing across the top of New Zealand. The endorsement of Transpower, alongside other electricity companies and civic councils, should give homeowners pause for thought. One of the major reasons to choose Northland as a renewable energy pioneer is sunshine. With a subtropical climate and plenty of sunny days each year, solar farm operators are eyeing tracts of land in the north, with the aim to establish large fields of photovoltaic (PV) panels. It bodes well for the efficiency of solar electric installations on local homes, but even better for a tried and true method of cutting power bills; solar hot water heating. Unlike PV, solar hot water heating is a very simple method of gleaning power from the sun. The very earliest uses of this technology date from classical times, when heating pools with mirrors was posited by Greek bath-house designers.
Clarence Kemp, a California inventor, patented the first home solar hot water heater in 1891, inspired by the way his canteen of water became too warm to enjoy when out hiking. Things have come a long way since then, but the solar hot water heater is still a simple proposition. It pumps water up to a panel or closed vessel on the roof of your home to get the most from the rays of the sun. Up to half of a home’s electricity bill can come from heating water. The hardest part of this process is heating water from a chilly, in-pipe temperature to lukewarm; having the sun do the heavy lifting is elementary. Some systems even use a small PV panel to power the pump. With prices from approximately $5,000 installed, it does not take long for a solar hot water heater to bring in cash saving dividends. Admittedly, more hot water is produced during summer than winter. However, even on a cloudy day in July, there’s appreciable power in the sun that can be concentrated into hot water savings. Furthermore, even on summer days, hot water is still used for dishwashing, cooking, bathing and more; why not make it free of charge?
As solar generation companies look north, local residents are reminded of the free, plentiful solar energy streaming down
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Bolt Selections
We are here to help you save time and reduce frustration. Find the perfect bolt you need when you need it.
1200mm
18
2400mm
...Available in three selections...
View our website to see which option suits you best http://strongholdfasteners.co.nz/Bolt+Selections
Platinum * Selection 7304 components
Gold Selection 4008 components
Silver Selection 2100 components
Pricing from $7377 to as low as $2581 + GST Secure this deal in March and receive a Free pack of top quality Grinding discs, a free Stronghold cap, (and chocolates with every order).
Call us today... 0800 474 636 Find out more on our website www.strongholdfasteners.co.nz
NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
ADVERTORIAL
Bolt selections increase productivity From a background in farming, the directors of Stronghold Fasteners are fully aware of the frustration caused by not having the right bolt, nut or washer when you need it. When a breakdown happens, and you’re under pressure, time is money! After a load of research and design, they came up with the perfect kit for the farm workshop, with a range of options depending on the size of your operation. Hundreds of these have been installed in workshops throughout the country. Some are in old sheds, others in brand new state-of-the- The perfect kit for the farm workshop by Stronghold Fasteners art workshops. Wherever they are, they are getting used consistently showing what product is inside the bin. for breakdowns in the season and It makes life easy when reordering. maintenance in the off-season. By One of the founders of the company, pastoral farmers, cropping farmers, Randall Vigis, says that what he loves horticultural farmers, and engineers. For most about the concept is the huge level repairing tractors, cultivation equipment, of customer satisfaction. hay equipment and farm bikes. “I always ask customers that phone to The selections not only have bolts top-up, whether they like their purchase. and nuts in length increments of 20mm The responses are overwhelming, but also include flat washers, spring ranging from the best investment I ever washers, Nyloc nuts, grease nipples made to wish I’d done it years ago.” (metric and imperial), R-clips, Dee He says that the other great thing shackles, lynchpins, cotter (split) pins about the concept is that “We get to and hose clips. Some extras are optional keep in touch with so many great people in certain kits. The sturdy UV-stabilised when they contact us to restock what plastic bins have laminated labels they have used.”
MARch 2022
Northpower ownership review
19
Public meetings to discuss the ownership model governing the Northpower Electric Power Trust are being held for consumers connected to the Northpower network in Kaipara and Whangārei to make submissions. Trust chair Erc Angelo says a series of public meetings to inform consumers of the review process will be held as “the Northpower Electric Power Trust Deed requires that options for the future ownership of shares in The Northpower Trust Board from left to right: Northpower be reviewed Phil Heatley, Bill Rossiter, Sheena McKenzie, every five years. Erc Angelo, Irene Durham, Chris Biddles and Paul Yovich “The trustees must carry out a consultation process to Meetings for those with vaccination determine if the current ownership passes will be held as follows: structure is what consumers want, or if • Thursday, March 17 at 11am consumers would prefer a change.” — Dargaville Town Hall, 37 Currently, seven trustees, Erc Angelo, Hokianga Road Sheena McKenzie, who is deputy chair, • Monday, March 21 at 11am — Chris Biddles, Irene Durham, Phil Mangawhai Domain Hall, 75 Moir Heatley, Bill Rossiter and Paul Yovich, Street, Mangawhai hold all of the shares on behalf of the • Thursday, March 24 at 11am — Plus trust’s beneficiaries — the consumers CA Pavilion, Cobham Oval, Okara connected to the electricity network. Drive, Whangārei Government legislation requires • Friday, March 25 at 11am — Northpower to become a company with Zoom for those who can’t attend ownership remaining in the community. the meetings or do not have The last ownership review in 2017 vaccination passes. resulted in no change to the ownership Information packs are available, structure remaining with the trust. email: nept@plusca.co.nz.
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Trapinator™ Mustelid Trap has been designed to humanely kill stoats, rats, weasels and hedgehogs. Approved and used by Department of Conservation. It is lightweight, durable with flip open top for easy access. Perfect for large or small operators, this Mustelid trap makes pest kill and removal easy work. TRAPINATOR™ Purchase now!
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MARch 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
ADVERTORIAL
A powerful anti-corrosive Lantos is a light lanolin-based rust inhibitor that guards against corrosion on all metal surfaces. It eliminates moisture containing salt, dirt, and other pollutants from coming in contact with metals, providing long-lasting protection for various applications around the home. This lubricant is safe for your family to use, is non-toxic, nonhazardous and 100% environmentally friendly. The secret is in the base product lanolin, which has been used for centuries for its powerful anti-corrosive, anti-seize, and lubricating qualities. From interior service locks and hinges to outdoor lawn and garden equipment to the garage with numerous applications for vehicles and tools, it penetrates, protects, preserves and lubricates for all household interior and exterior needs. Prevention is always the best cure. Corrosion can be expensive and hard to repair, especially in industries such as mining, gas, oil refineries and more. Lantos Lubrication keeps your machinery moving and prevents costly downtime and major repairs occurring during your production process.
Every stiff bolt, dry chain or corroded joint will hinder your plans and reduce efficiency. Lantos Lubrication is the answer to protecting metal components and sealing them against the harshest environments, making maintenance tasks 100% easier. With prevention and protection taken care of, performance will be no challenge. Lantos Coatings keeps your machinery in top operating condition allowing you to maximise performance and stay on top of production. Stand apart from the crowd and keep moving forward. Phone Garth on 021 854 253.
Prevent & save on machinery breakdowns!
Professional hunters in forest cull
by Paul Campbell
Professional hunters are active in the Russell Forest, targeting feral goats in an ongoing Northland Regional Council operation to reduce the goat population ahead of a later cull of unwanted sika deer. A small sika herd in Russell Forest has been designated as a top priority for eradication by Northland Regional Council and its stakeholders because of the impact the deer have on the forest’s native biodiversity. NRC councillor Jack Craw, who chairs the council’s Biosecurity and Biodiversity Working Party, says the deer’s potential role as hosts of bovine tuberculosis and vector for kauri dieback disease is an issue. “Council has been working closely with local hapū, the Department of Conservation and the local community to make this happen.” A sika DNA survey was undertaken in May last year across its habitat to enable costs for eradication to be assessed and techniques reviewed in anticipation of a looming eradication project this year. The collection of deer faeces and use of DNA analysis provides information on the home range and identity of individual sika. It is a technique that has worked successfully in other deer eradication projects around New Zealand and the world. However, Cr Craw says high numbers of feral goats within the forest is a complicating factor for the sika eradication.
The team of professional hunters hunting goats in the Russell Forest
“Goat faeces can be confused with those of sika, and subsequent analysis of goat faeces inadvertently collected as part of the sika survey will add significant costs and time to the operation.” To reduce this risk, one of the initial steps in the sika eradication project will be to reduce feral goat populations before undertaking the sika DNA survey, “A team of professional goat hunters will be hunting goats over approximately 2,500 hectares of private and conservation land over a two-week period using kiwi aversion trained bailing dogs, as well as a helicopter for transport to high ridges.” The hunters will also be trained in kauri dieback mitigation methods to ensure the disease will not be spread during the hunt.
DARGAVILLE RAIL & RIVER
Keep everything moving! Scan to visit our website
Contact us to book a rail cart adventure to Tangowahine or Waiotira today! To enquire phone SUE 027 448 9763
New Zealand Approved Distribution for Lantos Coatings.
www.allcodistributors.co.nz
Find us on Facebook: Dargaville Rail and River
We have an experienced and friendly team available at EQ8 Accounting offering a wide range of expertise and experience in the world of business and taxation. “At EQ8 Accounting we understand that every business situation is different and require different solutions which is why we are dedicated to providing timely and accurate solutions designed to suit each business’s needs. We work alongside you not only solving problems that may arise, but helping you reach your financial goals.”
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NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
March 2022
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March 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
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March 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
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ADVERTORIAL ADVERTORIAL
Chondroitin sulphate for sore joints by John Arts
Chondroitin sulphate is classified as a Dietary Supplement in NZ, but in Europe is available on prescription where It is classified as ‘a symptomatic slow-acting drug for osteoarthritis’. The drug classification then goes on to give specific information: ‘Chondroitin sulphate, used with glucosamine, is indicated to alleviate pain and inflammation from primary osteoarthritis. This supplement is reported to improve joint function and slow disease progression’ — (drugbank.ca/drugs/DB09301). I recently read a health store flyer in my morning newspaper. One promotion was for a glucosamine based joint product. There is no doubt that glucosamine can help joints. That is why I include it in my joint formula. However, why is there no mention of chondroitin? The company is a large Hong Kong-owned company that would clearly know about the benefits of chondroitin. What then could be the reason for not including therapeutic amounts of chondroitin? For that matter, why do most joint products sold in NZ have either no chondroitin or so little to have negligible impact on joint health? I think the answer is quite simple. Good quality chondroitin costs ten times that of glucosamine.
My preference is to have equal proportions of chondroitin and glucosamine and for most people to start at a double dose. With my joint product, the standard daily dose delivers 800mg of both ingredients while the double dose 1,600mg each. That, combined with high potency curcumin (from turmeric) extract, can quickly settle sore joints. I usually add Omega 3 fish oil rather than plant Omega 3 sources (such as flaxseed or hemp oils) as only fish oil has EPA, which is profoundly anti-inflammatory. As an example, I have been helping someone for a number of years who contacted me with sore and swollen knees caused by osteoarthritis. She is now much more comfortable and mobile and feeling so much better about life in general. John Arts (B.Soc.Sci, Dip Tch, 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 all-new newsletter at abundant.co.nz.
New enhanced formula
Export season complete The Just Avocados export picking and packing season has come to an end, with our packhouses completing their last avocado pack on February 25. Our aim of picking fruit early to penetrate our targeted Asian markets paid off in what has been a difficult season for avocado growers and marketers, with our Pool One results sitting strong against competitors. Just Avocados represented 55% of the total volume that went to China, and we have set a good base to continue this growth. Across all our key markets in Asia, we represented an average of 37.5% market share. Our total volume into Asia exceeded 390,000 trays — a 400% increase from last season. When considering New Zealand’s total export volume to Asia this year only represents 6.2% of Asia’s total consumption, the need for relevance in these markets is critical. Our team is working on preparing for the upcoming season and looking to ensure we’re harvesting 70% of fruit by early November (pre-flowering). Due to our early harvest approach in the past, we are seeing solid tree health and a good potential crop for next season. We have noted unfortunate damage to orchards from Cyclone Dovi in early February, which will slightly reduce our projected crop for the upcoming season. Whilst this season’s indicative returns for Pool Two have not seen the same
Loading truck
value uplift as we experienced in prior seasons, we still see this later pool as a great tool for growers to spread risk. As we start planning for next season, our key focus will be around how we maximise our harvest and packing capacity to provide the most flexible solution to our growers. We are intensely focussed on assisting our growers in maximising their orchard productivity as we see a strong correlation between high yield orchards and profitability. To learn more, talk to one of our team today at info@ justavocados.co.nz.
WHEN DO YOU WANT TO PICK? At Just Avocados, we are committed to providing a model that allows flexibility around harvest while maximising returns. Talk to us about how we can maximise your orchard’s potential.
John Emett
Grower Services Manager 027 476 9087 john@justavocados.co.nz
Abundant Health @justavocados info@justavocados.co.nz www.justavocados.co.nz 07 549 3027
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MARch 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
HONDA XRM125 $4,249 FARM BIKES
HONDA POWER EQUIPMENT • • • • •
inc GST
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XR150
$4,825 inc GST
XR190
$6,319 inc GST
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$6,894 inc GST
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TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT
E-BIKES
Tackle the Twin Coast Cycle Trail or just go and do some shopping!
Honda Pioneer Range Stone Mountain Yosemite E-Bike
Honda ATV range
$2,899 inc GST
Available in two colours
20 Port Road, Whangarei, 0110, New Zealand P: 09 438 9780 E: sales@northcoasthonda.co.nz w: www.northcoasthonda.co.nz
NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
MARch 2022
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ADVERTORIAL
Effluent spread a speciality Hi, my name is Lars. I grew up on a farm and have always enjoyed doing tractor work, and this has led to a business that covers from Kaitaia to Kaipara and beyond.
Lars, with one of his two top of the line Nevada effluent tankers ready to work
I brought my first tractor, an International 484 when I was 16. All my mates were saving up for a motorbike or their first car. After finishing school, I went to work for a well-established agricultural contractor. He said he would give me a period of two weeks to see how I went. I was there for six years and got the opportunity to learn how to operate all different sorts of machinery. Fast-forward to 18 months ago, and I was made an offer to buy an existing effluent spreading business. So LJS Contracting was born.
I have two top of the line Nevada effluent tankers — one 12,800 litre capacity and the second 10,000 litres. I’ve loved meeting many different farmers in the last 18 months, and being able to empty their effluent ponds is great. I’m based in the Kerikeri/Bay Of Islands area; however, I am willing to travel anywhere from Kaitaia to Whangarei or Kaipara. If you would like to know more or are interested in booking in, please don’t hesitate to call or text me on the number below. We are also on Facebook @ LJS Contracting. Thank you, and I look forward to meeting some of you.
ULTRA
Kerikeri Water Supplies
FINE LIME The Ultra Fine Lime Co. is now the authorised distributor of PFP fertilisers wide range of high quality Ultra fine ground lime & fertiliser products. Using the high quality fine particle products at our recommended rates will boost production while reducing transport and application costs by a considerable amount.
Covering Kerikeri and surrounding areas
We operate our depot out of Kaikohe.
call James
Book now for your early autumn requirements.
Contact Bruce Sisley mob 021 308 466 or email bruce@rgfs.biz
LJS Contracting’s owner Lars formed the business 18 months ago
A IN &
SEED DRESSI
ID G E CRSEEDS
GR
NG
QUA LITY PASTURE SEED
09 407 4433 Mobile 027 452 1450 Phone
Serving the North for 80 years
LIMEWORKS IN: • Fairburn • Otangaroa • Paranui
Po Box 144, Larmer Rd, Kaitaia • www.bellinghamquarries.com Phone: 09 408 1340 • Cell: 021 848 098 • Email: bellingham.quarry@xtra.co.nz
Looking in at your window of planting seed and being new at Cridge Seeds Ltd I already know that they have top quality grass seed and clovers at competitive prices to send nationwide. Contact: Nick 022 083 3579 Julie 027 3244431 for information and advice Cridge Seeds Ltd Canterbury | www.cridgeseeds.co.nz
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MARch 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
SPECIALISING IN MULCHING AND HORTICULTURAL EARTHWORKS Aerial Agricultural Spraying & Top Dressing Services Servicing Northland Wide Grow Safe Accredited
We can mulch whole trees, orchard trimmings & prunings, scrub and shelter belts. Mulching services available anywhere in the North Island
BEVAN HARPER
P: 027 496 5277 E: elementlandworks@outlook.com W: www.elementlandworks.com
 Gorse Spraying  General Weed Spraying  Aerial Crop Spraying & Topdressing  Forestry Aerial Spraying & Topdressing  Lifting  Suppliers of Omya Lime Prills  Work Guaranteed G & C Pinkney RD1 Kaikohe | Phone: 021 846 534 www.farnorthhelicopters.co.nz admin@farnorthhelicopters.co.nz
Concrete Blocks for • Retaining Banks • Silage Pits • Storage Bays • Fertiliser & Feed Bins
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Virgin Concrete for all your ready mixed concrete needs Proudly 100% locally owned and operated. Visit www.virginconcrete.co.nz
NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
MARch 2022
AUTUMN PASTURE
by Ann van Engelen
29
Caring for your soil
Bryce Manderson believes it is time for farmers to rethink how they manage soil health and fertility. Bryce is the managing director of Avoca, a leading provider of lime and fertiliser mixes in Northland, South Auckland and Waikato. “With the rising costs of fertiliser plus so many other everyday living costs, many landowners underestimate the cost savings and benefits of lime,” he says. “Lime itself, calcium carbonate, provides calcium to soil and plants. Calcium ensures efficient plant uptake of water and nutrients, carbohydrate storage in plant leaves, nodulation and nitrogen fixation in legumes, and encourages earthworm activity. “With fertiliser prices at an all-time high, it makes sense for farmers to ‘sweeten’ their soil by boosting pH levels through applying lime. “Lime maximises returns from money spent on fertiliser, reduces soil acidity and significantly increases the availability of important plant nutrients — a key benefit of liming. “Lime increases the availability of important plant nutrients — phosphorus, nitrogen, potassium, calcium, magnesium and trace elements like boron and molybdenum. “I liken lime to being like a multi-powered superhero. It fosters optimum availability of all other nutrients, so it provides great
bang for your buck. You only have to talk to farmers who have a regular liming programme to understand the benefits. “If soils are too acid or too alkaline, nutrients sitting in soil that already existed there or have been added via fertilisers and other soil amendments over the years will not be available to plants. “It is important to maintain a pH of 6.3–6.5 to optimise the availability of all these nutrients.” The major nutrients Ca, Mg, N, P, S, K and Na, as well as the trace elements Mo and B, are most available in near-neutral soils, whilst other trace elements Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn are more available in acidic soils. “Of course, rainfall and plant-soil chemical interactions naturally increase soil acidity. On top of that, landowners are responsible for acidification through abundant use of fertilisers on our agricultural land. “All of these factors steer our soil pH levels below the optimum required for maximum nutrient availability. “Applying lime will increase the pH of your soils, creating conditions for greater nutrient availability and, therefore, increased productivity. “Remember, sulphur is required by plants in similar amounts to phosphorus.
TE PUNA POLLED HEREFORD STUD
• HAY • SILAGE • SPRAYING • CULTIVATION • SEEDING Office: 09 433 1733 Eden: 021 0842 6587 Warren: 027 391 4777
Bryce Manderson – Avoca’s managing director
Liming not only increases soil pH to that which is optimal for sulphur availability but in doing so, increases microbial activity allowing for the mineralisation of OM-S, the major proportion of sulphur in most soils, making it plant available. “Liming to increase your soil pH to at least six will optimise magnesium availability.
“Magnesium is important for plants. However, deficiencies are most visibly observed through livestock health issues such as hypomagnesaemia. Lactating cows are most at risk of this condition resulting in reduced milk yields, and death of the animal in extreme cases.”
P.G. Smith Ltd. TOPDRESSING
53rd Annual Sale
UNDER COVER Monday 4th July 2022 Sale Starts: 12.30pm Big beef sires and low birth weight stud and dairy sires. Yearling paddock sales and inspections welcomed anytime. All bulls BVD and EBL tested. Phone Cam 021 032 8281 Email: cgerrard@xtra.co.nz
Topdressing Orchard Spreading Fertiliser & Lime office@pgsmithltd.co.nz Kaikohe/Kerikeri 09 405 2229 • Kaitaia 09 408 6666 • Whangarei 09 437 1116 • Wellsford 09 423 8372 • Helensville 09 420 7079
High quality yields with custom
fertiliser blends CALL US FOR A SOIL TEST TODAY!
Trevor 027 935 3540 or email trevor@parkerlime.co.nz
Healthy soils, healthy returns
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MARch 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
AUTUMN PASTURE
ADVERTORIAL
Treat your stock to the best by Blair Cotching, Barenbrug Pasture Systems Manager
What’s gorgeous, nutritious, made in the North Island, happy in the sun and guaranteed to tempt the fussiest eater? Morrow red clover, that’s what. If you haven’t yet treated your animals to this energy-rich palate pleaser, get some in the ground this autumn, and get ready for multiple nosh-ups next season. Yes, that’s right — I said ‘multiple’. Morrow is different from traditional red clovers. You can graze it more often. Picture an exposed, dryland Bay of Plenty dairy farm, grazed rotationally and intensively. That’s where Morrow’s parents came from. They not only survived but thrived in an environment where red clover would normally be expected to give up the ghost pretty quickly. Come summer, when grass struggled in the heat, they fl ourished, and so did the cows. You are what you eat. We all have our favourite foods. Some of them are even good for us. Grazing animals have the best of both worlds — their forage of choice is a nutritional powerhouse. You’ve probably seen your animals go through a pasture and deliberately pick out the clover. That’s because
legumes taste lip-smackingly good to cows, sheep, cattle and deer, even when hot weather tends to put them off eating other things. Combine this with the highest energy level of any pasture species, and you can see how Morrow helps keep animal growth and production humming during late spring and summer. Unlike white clover, red clover is tap-rooted, so it can dig down for soil moisture. In today’s climate, that’s a plus for pasture resilience. Another bonus? It loves warm weather, staying green and leafy when the thermometer usually sends ryegrass to have a liedown. Fertiliser is not getting any cheaper. Sow Morrow, and pasture and nutrient balance will benefit because it fi xes its own nitrogen, feeding it naturally into the pasture slowly and continually. At a fi xation rate of about 25 kilograms of nitrogen a hectare for each tonne of dry matter grown, it can add more than 200 kilograms of nitrogen a hectare to your pasture in a year. Contact your seed rep today.
Morrow Red Clover
Mow, Rake, Bale & Wrap Stack Silage Discing, Power Harrowing with airseeder & Drilling Effluent, Lime & Fert Spreading Digger, Scoop & Trailer Work
Call or email Glen Lugtigheid 021 439 748 glenlugtigheid@gmail.com
• Grass Silage • Maize Planting & Harvesting • Large Square Bales • Cultivation • Seed Drilling Contact Ross 021 844 298
Alexander Ag Ltd
Morrow multi-stemmed red clover Grow. Graze. Repeat.
@BarenbrugNZ
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AGRICULTURAL LIME AND LIME ROCK FOR GROUND AND AIR APPLICATION, CRUSHED RACE ROCK AVAILABLE IN BOTH 100mm AND 50mm GRADES.
179 Sandspit Road, WARKWORTH Phone
09 425 8531
www.rodneylime.co.nz
NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
MARch 2022
AUTUMN PASTURE
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Scoring pasture for better undersowing by Andy Bryenton
Autumn is here, and that means it’s time to make a practical assessment of paddock condition, with an eye to planting the right kind of grass to weather the winter. As farmers know all too well, not all grasses are created equal. In a cycle as old as agriculture, there comes a time when pastureland needs to rotate through a period of spring cropping, giving the soil and its microbiota variety. The key to successful autumn set-up is scoring paddocks according to the amount of damage they have sustained and the kind of growth remaining as summer draws to a close. It’s recommended that paddocks should be evaluated on a scale of one to five by eye. Veterans of the rural sector can spot the differences that define these gradations and be honest with themselves about aspects such as cracking, weed coverage and drainage. A level five paddock will be bursting with grasses and clovers and show no bald patches or damage. Level four is defined by less vigorous grass growth and a scattering of weeds but is no cause for immediate concern. Management of these paddocks to continue healthy growth is required. However, pasture displaying characteristics below this standard is a definite candidate for undersowing. Level three paddocks show dispersed areas of weeds, visible damage from animal activity and some bare patches. They could be called marginal but are good targets for undersowing with perennial ryegrasses, which can offer a further two to three years of good productivity. Level two paddocks are further deteriorated and show extensive weed growth alongside poor desirable grass
A major construction project needs to comply with building standards, but there’s no reason why it can’t also be an expression of your personality; bring on board tradespeople who can help
retention. Experts suggest undersowing with short-term ryegrasses, such as Italian varieties, which may add one and a half to two years of grazing. A pasture that has reached level one is clearly damaged and not worth undersowing remediation for short-term gains. Instead, it’s time for weed killing treatments and the planting of a sixmonth annual ryegrass, which provides cover and weed control until springtime planting of maize or turnip crops. This five-point system provides a handy general rule to assess the way to lean when making a call on undersowing activities. Talk to your seed provider or undersowing contractor about specific cultivars that may work in tandem with your climate and soil conditions.
NORTHMIX
YOUR LOCAL FERTILISER SUPPLIER & WOOL BUYER SULPHOS & ALGERIAN RPR Get your P content without the leaching Sulphos 8 (NO P8 K0 S8 Ca29 Mg0.2) Sulphos 10 (NO P10 K0 S5 Ca32 Mg0.4) RPR (NO P12.7 K0 S1.3 Ca35 Mg0.75) PRILLED LIME - 250kg Equal 2.5 tonne conventional lime Macca 021 915 320 Bill 027 499 0485 Griffo 027 278 8122
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Autumn is a great time for renovating your lawn and with help from Newton’s it will be back looking its lushest best in a jiffy. Come to us for great prices and expert advice, talk to us now!
E: lancekeaycontracting@farmside.co.nz
Ph: 021 383 908
McLENNAN
GROUNDSPREAD Bulk Cartage & Spreading Specialists Pastoral | Orchard | Lifestyle
Part of Northland Ground Spread for over 40 Years
Ben McLennan
Ph:021 762 727
• • • •
All Rural & Residential Fencing Conventional Fencing Sheep & Cattle Yards Post and Rails
Jared Rountree 027 439 4411 contourfencing.nz@gmail.com
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MARch 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
Field Days Needs YOU!
Northland Field Days needs a little support. We have organised with all freezing works an account. A Cull Cow, Beast, or Sheep. It all counts! Also any type of store animal. We have kind people providing grazing to slaughter. If any one can help it would be greatly appreciated. Speak to your agent. A separate ASD Docket with the detail of owner being Northland Field Days and the payment will be directed to NFDays. Contact committee stock co ordination Michael for store animals or any questions 027 278 8122 Very big thank you from the committees hearts. STATE HIGHWAY 14, DARGAVILLE www.northlandfielddays.co.nz
NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
by Andy Bryenton
Plans afoot for field days’ future
MARch 2022
33
Dargaville’s hosting of the Northland Field Days will return; that’s the message from committee stock coordinator Michael Griffiths as the team delivering the three-day annual event pivot toward a resurgent 2023. “We’re going to be back. We’re not the kind of people who give up,” says Michael. “Two years of Covid-19 disruption have hit hard, but there’s a very passionate group of people dedicated to continuing the field days tradition here.” That tradition spans 45 years, with the Northland Field Days becoming one of the most important events on the rural calendar. “We have a great facility, which has been built through a lot of hard work by a big team,” Michael said. “That facility comes with costs, and we’re thinking innovatively to come up with ideas of other ways people could use that space to benefit us all.” Michael says that those who would like to host events, concerts, festivals, demonstration days and the like should contact him. If the field days site is being used, that’s money in the coffers to cover costs and ensure a strong return in 2023. At the same time, there’s a plan in motion that sees local livestock farmers helping keep the field days in good shape, ready for that resurgence. “We have set up an account with every freezing works in the north, and all of the agents in the region are on board,” says Michael. “Farmers can choose to donate a boner cow, store animal or beast to farm
Northland Field Days will return to Dargaville, as the committee responsible for delivering the agricultural festival float innovative ways of covering site costs
on, and know they are making a real difference. All they need to do is fill out the appropriate ASD docket to assign the animal to field days when they speak to their agent.”
If these two initiatives succeed, Dargaville will secure a strong Northland Field Days beyond the end of the Covid crisis. Those who have positive plans to utilise the field days space or
who wish to know more about the livestock donation programme should call Michael in his capacity as committee stock coordinator on 027 278 8122.
34
MARch 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
WE HAVE CAN-AM STOCK TURNING UP! 1,500
$
1,000
$
$
1,000 REBATE
570/650/1000
$
1,000 REBATE
* Ready To Ride offer available February 1st 2022 to April 30th 2022. 2021 Models
FARMLANDS SHAREHOLDER 5% REBATE On any new Can-Am Outlander model, parts and service at all Can-Am Dealerships in New Zealand FARMLANDS SHAREHOLDER 2.5% REBATE On any new Can-Am Defender model, parts and service at all Can-Am Dealerships in New Zealand Ends 30th May 2024
* Terms & Conditions apply
Hikurangi/Whangarei: Rouse Motorcycles Ph: 09 433 8471 | Kaitaia: Kaitaia Tractors Ph: 09 408 0670 Warkworth/Kaiwaka: Warkworth Motorcycles Ph: 09 425 8535 | Dargaville: Northland Motor Sports Ph: 0800 120 236 ©2021 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™, and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc or it’s affiliates. Always ride responsibly and safely. Always wear protective gear & approved helmet. BRP reserves the right to change the promotion at any time. *Terms and Conditions apply.
NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
MARch 2022
VEHICLES, MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT Ian
With fuel prices buffeted by the vicissitudes of war and supply chain woes, the government’s clean car rebate scheme is looking very attractive right now.
PANEL & PAINT Private & All Insurance Work
Contact Wayne 021 765 706, Ian 021 977 729
Phone: 425 8723 Fax: 425 9526 Email: autoglassww@xtra.co.nz or autoglassww@gmail.com Ford’s Escape PHEV defeats petrol price rises while remaining refreshingly easy to drive and enjoy
the pure off-road abilities of the big Everest, it’s practical as a family cruiser and tackles long highway trips with 167 kilowatts of power; 223 horsepower in old money. So, as a family-focussed sports utility, it has safety, tech and comfort. Then comes the icing on the cake; that fuel economy score, achieved by mating an electric motor to Ford’s 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine up front. Plug in your Escape overnight, and you’ll have 56 kilometres of purely electric range for zipping down to the shops for groceries or tackling the school run. When it’s time to
head further afield, the petrol engine seamlessly comes into play, juggling the power as deftly as a waiter with a set of hot plate specials. There’s been a lot of talk about ‘the new normal’ as the world stumbles from one crisis to another. However, this latest SUV from Ford displays that the phrase doesn’t have to mean an irksome downgrade. It can mean, instead, that what’s new and better can feel and operate just like the norm we have come to appreciate via a century of internal combustion advancements. Simply, without the higher bills.
O AT, W RK, P E L Y,
AY
While a purely electric vehicle may not be the best option for rural Kiwis dealing with range anxiety and long distances, a happy medium can be found in a small but growing segment of the auto market; the plug-in hybrid SUV sector. Right now, there are four contenders in this space vying for a top spot on the podium. However, one of the most accomplished, by the numbers and in real life, is the Ford Escape PHEV. It ticks all the boxes for fuel economy at a frugal 1.5 litres for every 100 kilometres, but its main claim to fame is that it feels exactly like the regular Escape. It is not faint praise. Ford has crafted a very competent, nicely appointed and visually appealing midsize SUV with their latest Escape. As with the vast majority of their recent offerings, the cabin is a calm, comfortable place to be. Adding PHEV frugality to the mix has not taken away either the power or the handling of this modern-day replacement to the big Falcon station wagon of your dad’s era. Like the big Fords of family road trip memories, the Escape packs in a hefty amount of cargo and can even tow 1200 kilos. While it may not have
Wayne
EDMONDS & MASON
BU
by Andy Bryenton
Plug in to the new normal
35
THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING LOCAL
09 438 9163
Field Days Finance Specials Still Available
Power Farming Northland 17 Rewa Rewa Rd Raumanga, Whangarei powerfarmingnorthland.co.nz
36
March 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
VEHICLES, MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT
Hydrogen power beyond passenger cars
by Andy Bryenton
Toyota New Zealand is branching out with a new programme to explore and support the advancement of hydrogen fuel cell technology for the local market. “As we continue to focus on increasing our electrification in our light vehicle fleet, we are looking to explore the applications of hydrogen technology outside of the automotive industry,” says Neeraj Lala, Toyota New Zealand’s chief executive. “This is not a distraction from battery electric vehicle applications in our light vehicle fleet, it is to ensure our ongoing
CROMPTON
ENGINEERING LIMITED Design and General Engineering
Floodgates | Field Rollers | Levelling Bars Palm Kernal Trailers | Hay Racks Head Bails | Forks | Incinerators Kumara Handling Equipment Sliding Palm Kernal Storage Bin Cover We also stock - Pumps & Pressure Systems | Bolts & Nuts | Pipe Fittings | Bearings | Drive Shafts Visit our website www.cromptonengineering.co.nz 31 Jellicoe Street, Ruawai 0530 | Ph (09) 439 2393 email crompton.eng@xtra.co.nz
business resiliency, through alternative business opportunities.” Those opportunities include shipping, stationary generators, forklifts and heavy transport; areas where the Toyota brand is less visible than in the realm of cars and light commercials. All that may be set to change, as technology which has taken two decades to reach maturity comes online. Toyota has developed a modular hydrogen fuel cell system that can slot into various high-demand applications. By packing the hydrogen fuel cell, control systems and motor in one package, it makes things easier for those wishing to design heavy vehicles, such as ships, which run on plentiful hydrogen rather than dwindling fossil fuel reserves. This modular approach keeps down development costs, and, ironically, mirrors the situation at the dawn of internal combustion technology, when a small number of engine makers supplied multiple coachbuilders who crafted everything from limousines to heavy trucks. “We have strong support from the Toyota Motor Corporation to explore a variety of commercial partnerships to advance hydrogen technology in New Zealand,” says Neeraj.
Hydrogen fuel cell technology may play a large role in a carbon free future for New Zealand, and Toyota are keen to explore the possibilities
“Toyota is committed to providing a diversified range of carbon-neutral technologies to meet the needs of every country and region. New Zealand is an ideal place, with our renewable energy and resourceful culture, to test new ideas and innovate for a better future.”
One early adopter is Emirates Team New Zealand, though the innovative new power plants will not replace sails in the next generation of America’s Cup yachts. Hydrogen is slated to power the support and management craft that accompany the superfast sailing vessels on the water.
$60 WOF
and capped price vehicle servicing* Genuine Toyota parts. We service all makes and models.
Warkworth Toyota – Your Local For more info contact Nick or Moesha 09 425 8439 Visit www.warkworthtoyota.co.nz today
NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
MARch 2022
The UFORCE 600 EPS is a package that represents a quantum leap in design, performance and ergonomics, with key updates including electronic hill descent control and a limited-slip rear differential. The UFORCE 600 EPS is truly ‘The Stronger All-Rounder’ and is ready for duty.
13,990
$
EX GST RIDE AWAY
6,490
$
10,990
$
EX GST RIDE AWAY
EX GST RIDE AWAY
15,490
$
EX GST RIDE AWAY
*Shown with optional roof cage, light bar & half windscreen.
*Ride away prices quoted exclude GST. Visit www.cfmoto.co.nz for more information.
Gatmans Mowers & More
Northland Powersports
Rob Titter Farm Services
Rouse Motorcycles
Silverdale | P: 0800 800 960 Kaikohe | P: (09) 401 1774
Whangarei | P: (09) 437 5451 Hikurangi | P: 0800 963 636
Maungaturoto Motorcycles
Maungaturoto | P: (09) 431 8555
www.cfmoto.co.nz
37
38
MARch 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
FLEXIBLE PAYMENT OPTIONS
YAMAHA RELIABILITY
MORE TIME ON FARM
4.95% P.A. FIXED RATE
3 YEAR GENUINE
150 HOURS
24-36 MONTH LOAN TERM
FACTORY WARRANTY
SERVICE INTERVALS
24 / 36 MONTH LOAN TERM NON ASSET - BACKED COMMERCIAL APPLICANTS VARIOUS REPAYMENT REQUENCIES AVAILABLE
ON ATV + ROV
ON ATV + ROV
AG125
$4,086
VIKING EPS
EXC GST
$19,999
KODIAK 450 EPS
$12,608
EXC GST
EXC GST
FIND YOUR LOCAL DEALER AT:
www.yamaha-motor.co.nz
*Finance promotion available between 1/10/21 to 31/03/22 on new farm vehicles (AG125, AG200, TTR230/A, TW200, XT250, YFM350FA, YFM450FB, YFM450FB/P, YFM700FA, YFM700FB/P, YXC700P, YXE850PBL, YXE850PK, YXF850, YXM700, YXM700S SE, YXE1000PSEM, YXF1000PSEM), through participating authorised Yamaha dealers while stocks last. Offer available for specified models, and warranty registered on or before 31/03/22. 3 year warranty available on ATV and ROV models (Excludes AG125, AG200, TT-R230,TW200, XT250) *FINANCE DISCLAIMER: Zero deposit; annual repayments only with first repayment due after 12 months and 4.95% p.a. fixed interest rate on a 24 or 36 month loan term. Asset backed commercial applicants only with NZBN registered for minimum of 1 year. Maximum amount financed is $35,000 and applies to AG125, AG200, TTR230/A, TW200, XT250, YFM350FA, YFM450FB, YFM450FB/P, YFM700FA, YFM700FB/P, YXC700P, YXE850PBL, YXE850PK, YXF850, YXM700, YXE1000PSEM, YXF1000PSEM. Offer available from October 1, 2021 to March 31, 2022 with final settlement date of April 30, 2022. Credit criteria, fees, charges and conditions apply including an application fee of $325, $10 PPSR fee and a dealer administration fee. Finance to approved applicants by Yamaha Motor Finance New Zealand Ltd. (YMF) NZBN 9429036270798 FSP 9622.
NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
MARch 2022
VEHICLES, MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT by Andy Bryenton
39
Rapturous reception
Ford sometimes shocks the world with the announcement of a new vehicle that’s a little bit wild and at odds with what you would expect from a well-established, global, thoroughly corporate automaker. The Ken-Block-Inspired Focus RS with its prominent drift mode button comes to mind, as does the classic GT40, the Lotus Cortina and the recent all-electric Mach E Mustang. This time around, however, Ford has whipped the covers off a machine that creates a new category; the offroad superute. Spurred by critics of the original Ranger Raptor, who called its two-litre turbo diesel underwhelming, Ford has responded in the same way as a staunch All Blacks supporter who has just been told that Australia is the best rugby nation on Earth. The forthcoming Ranger Raptor takes its new, twin-turbocharged V6 direct from the US market’s Bronco Raptor SUV, and it’s definitely an invitation to those critics to step outside, now. That’s because the new Raptor will boast a considerable 391-horsepower and more than 500 Newton-metres of torque, giving it the punch of a sports coupe in the body of a doublecab pickup. Underneath, you’ll find the same kind of smart, long-travel suspension system that made the original Raptor so nimble. However, this beast now throws down double the power, approaching the performance figures of bonkers off-road machines like AMG’s G63.
Ranger Raptor comes out swinging, with double the power of the original model and enough torque to tow a supertanker
Need more proof? One of the buttons inside activates ‘Baja mode’, referencing the legendarily gruelling race through the northwest of Mexico that pits off-road monster machines against the unforgiving desert. Ford says that its new Raptor is tough enough to warrant the monicker, and as an added bonus Baja mode keeps the twin turbos spinning for up to three seconds even when the driver buttons off the gas, allowing for lag-free pickup into the next flat-out off-road blast.
Even the engine block is made of a new, tougher, graphite-infused metal offering more rigidity; the paddle shifters for the Tiptronic 10-speed are fashioned from cast magnesium too. If you fondly recall Lamborghini’s LM002 V12 off-roader, then this is the moment you’ve been waiting for. The Ranger Raptor has
more torque on tap than that 80s behemoth, and it weighs less. New Zealand loves the Ranger in the same way we loved the XB Falcon back in the day. Remember how much more we wanted an XB after Mad Max gave it the once-over? That’s the response Ford is expecting for its new superute.
VEHICLES | TRACTORS | CARAVANS | DIGGERS | BOATS | TRUCKS Looking for a quality transporter you can depend on? Well, look no further. We’re Northland Vehicle Transport, available where you need us when you need us.
Patrick Klijn | 021 030 8493 | Find us on Email: northlandvehicletransport@xtra.co.nz
www.northlandvehicletransport.co.nz
ATJ HIRE EARTHMOVING EQUIPMENT FOR HIRE AND SALE
Dumpers, Diggers, Rollers and Trailers for Hire. 1 to 20 tonne excavators available
Check out our full range of dumpers, diggers & rollers for hire in Northland
www.dumpers.co.nz
1901 STATE HIGHWAY 10, WAIPAPA | PH: 09 401 7570
40
MARch 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
DAIRY AND LIVESTOCK
ADVERTORIAL
DR & BA
Trend to larger slurry tankers
GRANT ENGINEERING • Milking Machinery • Cowshed Pipework • Lathe & Milling Machining • Milking Machinery testing & quality control (same day repairs) • Aluminium & Stainless welding
by Michael Prestidge | Nevada Effluent Management Specialist
While there’s been a gradual increase in the average size of slurry tankers purchased during the past several years, the demand for large slurry tankers has ramped up in the last six months.
Ph 09 439 8248 Beach Rd, Dargaville
What we haven’t got we can get!
TRUST IN SEARCH ENGINE RESULTS DROPPED TO
43% AMONG CONSUMERS BY 2019
Tridem Slurry Tanker
Where once, it was 12,000L and 14,500L slurry tankers in hot demand, we’re now seeing a much higher demand for 20,000L tridem tanker — but why? It all comes down to efficiency. Farms are getting bigger Overall, farms are getting bigger, or many farmers own multiple farms in proximity. With a larger area to spread
SIS BALL COCK VALVE Price $99.50+GST EACH Freight free anywhere in NZ • Buy 10 receive 12 and 2x service kits
over, irrigation systems are inadequate for the entire farm. A slurry tanker, therefore, becomes the obvious choice for farmers to spread further. Larger slurry tankers — less loads With larger farms, it inevitably becomes more efficient to have a larger tractor to handle various jobs. Having a larger tractor not only enables farmers to pull a larger slurry tanker, but a larger slurry tanker provides the efficiency of less loads, and therefore less work for the tractor. Fast and efficient A Nevada tridem slurry tanker has a higher capacity pump to speed up loading. It can also be fitted with a loading accelerator to speed up the process further. Duo RainWave
applicators also make emptying the tanker fast and efficient. What holds a lot — holds a little Where weight and ground compaction are of concern — what holds a lot, holds a little. You certainly don’t need to fill the tanker during times when the ground is wet, but the larger size provides the ability to load her up when the ground needs it most. Larger Nevada slurry tankers have more axles combined with flotation wheels to provide a better weight distribution over the machine. Moreover, because the weight is spread over a larger area, there is less ground compaction. What’s more, carrying more means fewer loads, so less ground damage.
• 3 models available – all the one price • Nearly indestructible • Only NZ Manufacturer providing lifetime guarantee on the body of the ballcock
ATTENTION FARMERS BULK SILO FILL OR BY THE BAG For all of your stockfood requirements contact your local merchant or
www.sisballcock.co.nz | 0800 175 720 Only available direct from manufacturer
Phone 09 433 8933 Factory Lane, Hikurangi
nevadagroup.co.nz | 0800 464 393
NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
MARch 2022
DAIRY AND LIVESTOCK
41
Streamlined forestry test To end overseas investors planning to convert farms to forest, the government is taking steps to ensure forestry conversions by overseas investors are of better benefit to New Zealand. By retaining the more streamlined special forestry test where the investment does not involve a change in land use, the screening regime will continue with allowing for high-quality foreign investment in existing production forestry. The bill is expected to be introduced to parliament in a few months. At the same time, some minor and technical improvements will be proposed to the act to help with the operation and effectiveness of 2018 forestry-related changes. The Forest Owners Association is asking why the government needs to reintroduce more processes around overseas investment for conversions from pasture to plantation forests. FOA president Phil Taylor, says he hopes that this will not lead to a protracted and cumbersome process that kills off interest in New Zealand by overseas investors. “Minister Parker acknowledges the need for overseas investment in our primary sector, given that there is a limited amount of capital within New Zealand. “The government in its previous term realised that the application process was bureaucratic and pointlessly expensive and so brought in the special forestry test. Now it is changing it back again for new planting. “Since the special forestry test was introduced in late 2018, the OIO has approved a total of 23,402 hectares of
“This will help ensure the right forest is planted in the right place for the right reasons,” said Associate Minister of Finance David Parker. “The changes to the Overseas Investment Act 2005, approved by cabinet, mean that proposals by overseas investors to acquire land for conversion to production forestry will be considered under the Benefit to New Zealand test, rather than under the streamlined special forestry test.” This change will apply only to forestry conversions, such as where overseas investors look to acquire existing farmland for planting into a new forest. There is no change to investments in pre-existing forests. “Our overseas investment screening regime recognises what a privilege it is to own sensitive New Zealand assets. “The current settings for investing in land to be converted to production forestry, however, do not require overseas investors to demonstrate the benefits of their proposed investment in the same way the act does for other land-based investments. “High-quality foreign investment in forestry, and a strong forestry sector, remain important, and we continue to welcome this investment. However, as economic and regulatory contexts change, it is important to consider the impact of particular kinds of investment in forestry to ensure that all stakeholders continue to benefit.”
Dairy Farmers…
pasture for forest conversion, which is an average of 600 hectares a month. “That is a very modest rate in the context of a total hill country estate of 8.5 million hectares. “My main concern, though, is that the government is sending mixed signals about the need for an expansion of plantation forests. “Minister Parker says it’s important that we have a ‘strong forestry sector’. We agree, of course. That must mean an expansion. The Climate Change Commission says we need to grow the area by another 380,000 hectares for New Zealand to meet greenhouse gas emission goals. “The government has also set lofty goals for increased export income from forestry. An emerging bio-economy and
100% Local TROUGHS
Steps are being taken to ensure forestry conversions by overseas investors are made to better benefit to New Zealand
the widespread adoption of modern engineered timber will also drive extra consumption, here and overseas.”
PRECAST PRODUCTS INNOVATIVE BALLCOCK PROTECTED TROUGHS Free Ballcock and Protector with every trough Now fully patented! (NZ Patent 755783) Designed to save you time and money.
justin@precastproducts.co.nz | 027 704 0030 www.precastproducts.co.nz Find us at 12E Pataka Lane, Waipapa 0230 THANK YOU FOR WORKING WITH US, YOUR LOCAL NORTHLAND LIVESTOCK CARRIER
• Dairy farm refrigeration specialists with knowledge you can trust from your proud local team of engineers. • Pre cooling water chilling solutions and expert advice. • New system installations. • Hot water heat recovery.
UNITED LIVESTOCK WHANGAREI
• Technical support. • Preventative maintenance servicing. • Also heat pump supply and installations at discounted rates to dairy farmers. Don’t make any decisions on your refrigeration systems until you have spoken to the team at Active Refrigeration.
NEVILLE BROS SILVERDALE
SERVICING WARKWORTH TO KAITAIA 25B Herekino St, PO Box 1357, Whangerei
DESIGN
INSTALL
SERVICE
Ph 430 3186 www.activerefrigeration.co.nz northland@activerefrig.co.nz
MAINTENANCE
S
ROYDONS – KAIPARA
HILDER’S LIVESTOCK BAY OF ISLANDS
“A champion is someone who gets up when he can’t”
TAN
EMENOFF LIVESTOCK LTD
STAN SEMENOFF LIVESTOCK LTD P: 0800 800 585 LIVESTOCK@SEMENOFFGROUP.CO.NZ
Call Marni on 027 497 2935 or Call Scotty on 028 8500 8165 PROUDLY SUPPORTING THE LIFE EDUCATION TRUST IN NORTHLAND FOR THE LAST 26 YEARS
42
MARch 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
TRACTORS FROM $4,729
Refers model TS138
RIDERS FROM $8,750
Refers model R216
ZERO TURNS FROM $6,899
Refers model Z146
Available at your local authorised Husqvarna Dealer, Albany Dargaville Kaikohe Kaitaia Kaiwaka Kumeu
Albany Mowers & Machinery Farrand & Mason Ltd Kaikohe Lawnmowers & Chainsaws Ltd Kaitaia Tractors Ltd Kaiwaka Motorcycles Ltd Kumeu Chainsaw & Mower Services
09 415 9756 09 439 7335 09 401 0151 09 408 0670 09 431 2127 09 412 8109
Mangawhai Mangonui Silverdale Wairau Warkworth Whangarei
Mangawhai Small Engines Mangonui Mowers & Chainsaws Ltd Gatmans Mowers & More Valley Gardening Aids Rodney Honda Regent Lawnmowers and Cycles
09 431 5270 09 406 0584 09 426 5612 09 444 9493 09 945 3989 0800 438 296
WWW.HUSQVARNA.COM
NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
MARch 2022
43
Northern Rural Marketplace Acraflex Dairy Wall Coatings 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
Harrison Water Ram Pumps 4 Models
Pump water on your farm or to your house 24/7 NO Electricity Bills.
Andrew Simpson
0 Inc
Enquiries: harrisons@actrix.co.nz, Ph 027 483 9996 John or 022 059 5166
Contact: Phil 027 274 4188 E: info@cpcfencing.co.nz www.cpcfencing.co.nz
info@locksmart.co.nz
Address: 9-11 Hewlett St, Whangarei
Steers | Bulls | Heifers | Boners
11:00am - Calves (seasonal) 12:00pm - Dairy (seasonal)
PH 027 449 1228
. GST
EMAIL andrewsimpson.ns@hotmail.com
BEEF / DAIRY / SHEEP 100% NZ owned
DARGAVILLE SALE THURSDAYS 11:30am - Feeder Calves 12:30pm - Store Cattle
IES CONSTRUCTION LTD. CONCRETE AND TILT SLAB CONSTRUCTION
We offer design & build for bridges including plans, permits, consents and construction. Or see us to strengthen and repair your existing bridge to ensure safe access on your property. Contact: GHK Piling Phone: 09 435 4443
TUESDAYS 11:00am - Sheep 12:00pm - Prime Cattle
CONTACT Andrew Simpson
BRIDGE BUILDING & PILING SPECIALISTS
NORTHLAND WIDE • Tractors & Forestry rigged diggers with rammers
Steers | Bulls | Heifers | Weaner
Your Carrfields Agent for Kaipara/Rodney area
15-2 0mm $895 prices froMmodel .0
Also Available Solar Water Pumps (No Batteries)
WELLSFORD SALE MONDAYS 12:00pm - Store Cattle
• • • •
Email: admin@ghk.co.nz Web: www.ghk.co.nz
Bridges Farm buildings Feed pads Bins
PO Box 448, Kerikeri, 0245 • PHONE: 09 407 8784 EMAIL: ies@concrete.net.nz
www.locksmart.co.nz
www.animalherbs.co.nz We courier to your door!
A big range of Health Solutions for you, your family and animals
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!
Don Wilson - Pukekohe 027 497 5825 - don@onroadtransport.nz Blue Vallance - Paparoa 027 480 1072 - blueandgayle@xtra.co.nz Grant Robinson -Whangarei 021 158 8386 - grant@onroadtransport.nz 09 238 4016 | 2169 Buckland Road RD2, Pukekohe 2677 www.onroadtransport.nz
S
ATJ
* Concrete Clean
EMENOFF LIVESTOCK LTD
STAN SEMENOFF LIVESTOCK LTD P: 0800 800 585 LIVESTOCK@SEMENOFFGROUP.CO.NZ
Ph 09 432 0820
Email: homeopat@ubernet.co.nz Visit: homeopat@ubernet.co.nz to buy online
* House Wash
TAN
Scotty: 028 8500 8165 | Marni: 027 497 2935
• Solutions for control of fleas, ticks • Consult with Pat for solutions and worms with WashBar products, to skin problems and other Diatomaceous Earth and Flee Flea health issues for your pet • Herbal and Homeopathic remedies • Orijen Organic Dog and Cat Food — no grains for you and your animals
North Island Livestock Cartage
SELF DRIVE MACHINERY HIRE
* Gutter Clean
• Rollers 1.5 - 13 tonne • Diggers 1-20 tonne • Site dumpers 1-10 tonne • Loaders, Trailers, Plate Compactors etc
* Roof Treatments aaron@washrite.co.nz
* Cowshed Wash
Call the team at ATJ for your hire needs
Warkworth 09 425 8845 or Aaron on 021 210 0493 4 Morrosion Drive, Warkworth
022 438 8838
NORTHERN FARMING CLASSIFIEDS Reach 33,300 Rural Homes — Phone 0800 466 793 For Sale
Tree Services
ATV MATS from $89 — Come in & see us at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Ph 080 096 3636. www.atvtyres.co.nz.
ARBORIST & TREE WORK Residential/Commercial trimming, pruning, removal, chipping. Northland’s only Truck and Grapple Saw for large/tricky projects CALL Team Vegetation on 0800 933 326 for FREE QUOTE.
For Sale BACK 2 Wood Demolition. We buy & sell renovation materials. Servicing Northland — Auckland. Specialising in Windows, Doors, Ranch Sliders, Kitchens, Vanities, Roofing and More! Check out our website back2wood.co.nz or Ph 080 010 9877.
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.
HERITAGE APPLE Trees from $30 – Hardy root stocks – Diversify your Farm with an Orchard pack www.tastytrees.co.nz, call 09 408 5443 or text 027 346 7645. DORPER RAM hoggets well breed and hill country reared, $350 phone 09 408 4055.
Attention Farmers GIBB-GRO GROWTH PROMOTANT Promotes quick pasture growth Only $6 per hectare + GST delivered
T, WORK, P EA L Y,
0508-GIBB-GRO (442 247)
Wanted To Rent
www.gibb-gro.co.nz
LOOKING FOR house or cottage and lease land in the Kaipara area. Phone 027 3858 209.
“The Proven One”
BY PROFESSIONALS IN YOUR COMMUNITY NOT “EXPERTS” ONLINE
BU
For Sale 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.
AY
Fencing FENCING, ALL types of fencing, pool, stockyards, post & rail, boundary plus... call Jeff 027 476 5458.
THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING LOCAL
44
MARch 2022 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES
AVAILABLE NOW $19,126
EXCL
GST
Limited stock. Contact us today DARGAVILLE
WHANGAREI
HIKURANGI
KAIKOHE
C A Motorcycles - 104 Jervois St Dargaville | 09 439 0170 Rouse Motorcycles - 1 King St Hikurangi | 09 433 8471
WARKWORTH
Warkworth Motorcycles - 22 Whitaker Rd | 09 425 8535 Warkworth Motorcycles Kaiwaka - 1916 SH 1 | 09 431 2123
Shaw Motorcycles - 111 Cameron Street | 09 438 1183 Rob Titter Farm Services - 55 Station Rd E | 09 401 1774
KAITAIA
Kaitaia Tractors - 169 North Rd | 09 408 0670