Taranaki Farming Lifestyles, August 2015

Taranaki

FARMING Lifestyles

August 2015 Edition

10,000 copies DELIVERED FREE to every rural delivery address in Taranaki

More hands-on support

Taranaki axeman chops into the record books P3

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Alpacas set the style

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August 2015

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

Storm recovery package announced

The Taranaki Farming Lifestyles is published with pride by NorthSouth Multi Media Ltd, a privately owned New Zealand company.

Phone: 0800 466 793 Advertising: Betty Willets, Kelvin Green, Glyn Parker, Shane Hendriks

Storm recovery package offered to farmers

Editorial: Denise Gunn — 06 329 7701 Website: taranakifarming.co.nz

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A $500,000 storm recovery package offered by the Taranaki Regional Council aims to assist Taranaki farmers affected by the June floods.

Taranaki Regional Council chairman David MacLeod said the council has recognised the need to support farmers in their environmental activities.

“This was an extreme event and farmers might expect to be hit by such extraordinary damage only once or twice in a lifetime of farming.”

With some areas of Taranaki receiving up to 300mm of rain during the storm, farms were hit with soil erosion, extensive slipping, and damage to fencing in the eastern hill country. Some farms on the ring plain lost hundreds of metres of riparian planting.

Mr MacLeod said years of investment and hard work by farmers, through the council’s riparian and sustainable land management programmes, were devastated by flooding and erosion over a couple of days.

“Recent plantings are more vulnerable as the young plants are still developing

roots. Once mature, the riparian margins will stand up better to future flooding events,” he said.

The recovery package includes supply of replacement plants for riparian plan holders, assistance with riparian plantings, supply of poplar poles for erosion control and soil conservation, assistance with delivery and planting of poplar poles, replacement of damaged fencing done under the South Taranaki Regional Erosion Support Scheme (STRESS), and supply of grass seed for re-grassing in spring.

“We want to help farmers recover from the storm damage as quickly as possible so they can continue with the good work they’re doing to implement their riparian and hill country farm plans.”

Farmers should contact the council’s land management officers to report the damage on their farm and find out what assistance is available.

Phone Taranaki Regional Council on 0800 736 222 or email riparian@trc. govt.nz or hillcountry@trc.govt.nz for further details.

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

More hands-on support for rural communities

August 2015

Dr Jonathan Coleman said more people will be trained to support farming families.

Close to 100 additional people will be trained to help farming families access required support nationwide according to Health Minister Jonathan Coleman and Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy. The commitment is the first part of the one-off $500,000 funding boost for mental health initiatives targeted at rural communities.

Dr Coleman said they recognise that some farmers are under considerable stress.

“The physical isolation as well as the uncertainties of being reliant on the land creates different pressures to those living in an urban setting.

That’s why the Ministry of Health and Primary Industries have come together, with the support of the sector, to develop a work programme with local components linked to national coordination,” he said.

In collaboration with Dairy NZ and Beef + Lamb NZ, these additional support people will be trained to work for Rural Support Trusts, providing guidance and support to farmers around the country.

They will be able to recognise and refer those who need support.

Mr Guy said trained part-time workers and volunteers will help connect farming families with the wide variety of mental health, financial and advice services already available.

“In addition, r ural professionals including vets and farm advisors will be trained to recognise and refer. “ This expanded workforce support network has just started operating in the Waikato and more trained rural supporters will be working in communities by the end of September.”

Information support packs have also been mailed out today to farming leaders and organisations.

These include the MPI brochure ‘Managing through tough times’, and financial tips and advice provided by the New Zealand Bankers Association.

Work on the joint one-off $500,000 funding boost package continues with further details expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Dr Jonathan Coleman said more people will be trained to support farming families

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August 2015

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

BY DENISE GUNN It was purely by chance that Neil and Trish Watson first encountered alpacas during a farm visit in Picton over a decade ago.

T

ouched by the charm of these animals, the couple were instantly captivated and considered the possibility of raising alpacas on their 25acre lifestyle block near New Plymouth.

They returned home, did some research, visited alpaca stud farms, joined the Alpaca Association of New

Zealand (AANZ) and attended the annual conference.

Shortly afterwards, two pregnant alpacas arrived on their property and soon gave birth to two female cria.

Further foundation breeding stock followed, regularly purchased over the past decade to complement the stud’s

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

August 2015

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Neil in the show-ring

bloodlines. Now the couple have 66 Huacaya alpacas on their alpacasRstyle Stud, with 30 cria due this season.

Trish said they find alpacas inquisitive and curious creatures, with a gentle disposition.

“They become very friendly with regular handling.”

“And those eyes — they get everybody,” she said.

As Neil and Trish both work full-time in the same busy medical practice during the week, they find caring for their alpacas at home refreshing.

“We both enjoy the contrast of dealing with people all week at work, and coming home and spending time with the alpacas,” said Trish.

“They are relaxing and soothing to work with.”

Their alpacas are checked daily, and in the lead-up to birthing time are monitored several times a day. Each season’s new drop of cria at alpacasRstyle is both exciting and rewarding for the Watsons.

Although cria cuteness is hard to beat, it is also a time for realisation of the stud’s breeding plans and decisions are made accordingly.

“Our short term goals are to build up a herd of increasingly good quality breeding alpacas and produce a high quality end product,” said Trish.

The couple are also planning to build the business as a retirement investment.

As the cria reach close to six months of age, halter training begins.

“Once halter trained they remember what is expected of them though they

may not wear a halter for a couple of years,” said Trish.

The stud also has a range of stock for sale after weaning.

“We have a full range from the lower quality ones for pets through to the top quality breeding stock.”

Group packages of alpacas to suit individual requirements can also be arranged.

Neil has taught himself to shear alpacas with family and friends helping to gently restrain the animals, and collect the fleece.

Trish said the fleece is then sorted and used for different end products, depending on its quality.

“The low micron is carefully sorted and goes into a small pool with a limited number of growers. We process that into yarn of top quality which we then sell.”

The mid-range fleece is placed in a national pool and accumulated together to be sold internationally or used for duvets. The Taranaki depot for this pool is alpacasRstyle.

“The coarse hairy portion goes to make house insulation,” said Trish.

“There is a use for all of the fibre.”

As well as seeing the stud’s breeding goals fulfilled, the couple find it equally rewarding to see the fleece from their animals processed into an end product.

Trish said alpaca fleece is three to four times warmer than merino, as well as lighter and stronger.

The fleece contains no lanolin, isn’t prickly to wear, and is hypoallergenic.

“In duvets it does not attract dust mites

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“It is a unique, top quality fibre,” said Trish.

The couple show their alpacas, beginning the season mid-year with the AANZ National Show which alternates between the North and South Islands.

They travel and exhibit their stock throughout the North Island circuit, winning numerous championships in both breed and fleece competitions.

One of the couple’s supreme championship-winning female alpacas has been sold to breeders in Germany and will travel to Europe in May 2015.

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August 2015

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

BY DENISE GUNN At just nineteen years of age Jack Jordan is making a name for himself in the woodchopping arena, winning his third world title.

A

s the second youngest of four boys, Jack was born in Taumarunui and lived there for three years before moving to his family’s sheep and beef farm east of Stratford.

It was through watching his older brother Shane, also a world title holder, compete that he decided to follow in his footsteps.

Jack’s first competition was at 11 years of age.

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“Shane started chopping when he was in high school and I decided to give it a go too,” said Jack.

Since then woodchopping has taken Jack all over New Zealand and across the Tasman to compete.

As he worked his way up through the ranks, Jordan said he was well looked after by everyone.

He particularly gives credit to his brother Shane and local woodchopping legend Bruce Reichardt, for their assistance and encouragement through his career.

“My brother Shane has helped right from the start,” said Jack.

“Bruce also helped me for a few years.

“I went there after school two days a week and his wife would make me afternoon tea, then I’d chop wood.

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

“Bruce gave me the basics and Shane taught me a lot of what I now know.”

Jack’s training focusses on his woodchopping technique several times a week in addition to gym and fitness work. He also plays rugby for the Stratford Prems, and the Taranaki Under 19s teams.

“It’s very satisfying when all the training pays off to win an event,” he said.

As well as following some of the show circuit around New Zealand from October to April, Jack travels overseas a couple of times a year to compete at the big shows in Sydney, Melbourne or Adelaide. Winning the larger prizemoney overseas helps to subsidise competition costs.

“I aim to peak for the Sydney Royal Easter Show,” he said.

Two years ago, Jack was the youngest ever winner of a wood-chopping world title when at the age of 17 he took home the 16 Inch Underhand World Trophy in Christchurch.

His second world title came in February this year when he won the David Bolstad Memorial World Title in Rotorua.

However, his biggest achievement to date was winning the 15 Inch Underhand World Title at the Sydney Royal Easter Show in April. Jack’s win also saw him break another record as the youngest

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winner in history to take out this prestigious title at just 18 years of age.

Jack said Sydney is the Wimbledon of woodchopping and it was his dream to win this title.

“Sydney is the most difficult chop in the world and winning it has been my goal for three years.”

“It was definitely the highlight of my career so far,” he said.

“To win the Sydney show was a dream come true — a dream from the beginning.”

Chainsaw manufacturer Husqvarna will be supporting Jack this year with sponsorship for the apprentice builder.

Husqvarna business development manager Margot Dell said the brand is excited to be working with an athlete as talented and hard-working as Jack.

“Jack has got such natural talent and when you add to that his passion for wood-chopping, he is a great fit for Husqvarna.”

Jack said it’s great to have such a strong brand supporting him.

“Particularly one that has such a long history in manufacturing top quality outdoor equipment,” he added.

Younger brother Eli picked up an axe a few years ago and has followed his brothers into the sport.

All three brothers belong to the Taranaki Axemen’s Association.

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Jack competing at this year’s Central Districts Field Days

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August 2015

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

ADVERTORIAL

New product! ET250 Fertiliser with pest deterrent

by John K Morris CEO of Agrissentials

ET250 is a new-age BioGro certified liquid spray designed to deter pests and disease. In the realm of nature, pest and disease are part of Mother Nature’s plan to keep plants healthy.

When plants become sick, they resonate at a frequency that attracts pest and disease, who basically take a plant out, so that it does not propagate and weaken the species.

With all the chemicals we have used over the last 50 years, we have reached a point where pest and disease have become immune to the chemical sprays, indicating that nature is stronger than chemicals. At Agrissentials we understand the nature of pest and disease and the job they do. To us there is no point in trying to eradicate pest and disease as they are part and parcel of the natural system.

The ultimate answer to pest and disease problems is to get your plants on a multi-mineral, microbial rich diet and I

know a fertiliser company that supplies exactly that. With a full array of minerals the plant will become healthy and resonate at a frequency that pest and disease are not interested in. The main minerals here are the trace elements, which are the building blocks of the plant’s immune system, minerals such as iron, manganese, boron, copper, zinc, cobalt, molybdenum, selenium and chromium all essential for plant health.

As Rachel Hunter once stated “it won’t happen overnight but it will happen�, so Agrissentials have produced this amazing BioGro certified, completely natural pest repellent to keep the vines, orchards and pastures pest free while the plants are strengthening up their immune systems.

The chemical age we have come through has not done life, in general, any favours. In actual fact it has not only caused health problems to plants, animals and people, but has been unable to control pest, diseases and weed problems. The basic reason why chemicals have not been able to control pest, disease and weed problems is that these three natural control agents are part and parcel of nature’s checks and balances ensuring that life continues on. In reality pest, disease and weed problems indicate mineral deficiency; correct the mineral deficiency and health will ensue.

Through the use of synthetic fertilisers and chemical sprays we have demineralised and destroyed the water retention quality of our soils, which in turn has put pressure on our farmers and our environment. The sooner we leave the chemical age and begin working with mother nature and looking after the free capital she provides like soil, atmospheric minerals, water, sunlight, health and vitality, the easier farming will become.

So, while you transit away from chemicals and begin working alongside Mother Nature, Agrissentials can help you through that period with our

multi mineral microbial rich fertilisers, restoring and remineralising your top soil for better health, better food, better production, a better farm and a better environment. If you’re having trouble with pest and disease, don’t forget to check out our ET250, a great natural pest repellent, BioGro certified, with no harmful effects. Agrissentials — working with farmers and Mother Nature, for a better, healthier planet. Call now and get a free info pack covering all our products, which will cover all your problems.

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

15.2mm

August 2015

9

Blueprint to handover

11.7mm

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When everything is new You have the section and now it is time to build your home — a milestone in anyone’s life.

But where do you start? Once you have your architects or building company lined up, the first step is a blueprint. A plan on paper, or more likely than not in today’s world, on a computer screen.

Now, with the fast-paced world we live in, people are getting used to the convenience of digital formats, allowing them to be quickly delivered by email. These house plans will usually concentrate on the architecture and the building itself and will not usually specify interior finishes. Part of the fun of building a new home is choosing those finishes, hardware and appliances. The floor plan is probably your greatest planning tool and includes most of the critical dimensions and specs needed to build the home.

They act as a kind of road map of your home, showing how the different spaces relate to each other. Many plans will include the electrical elements — lights and plugs etc.

An overhead look at cabinets, plumbing and appliances can be provided here, helping you in turn to plan furnishings and colours.

When you are heading into a new home, it’s important to spread the word.

Be sure to file change of address forms with the post office and notify your insurance company. Look into getting electricity, internet and gas hooked up if it isn’t already so you know who your providers are.

If your new house is not already equipped with a security system, you may want to consider setting one up.

This is the time to make sure you know where the electrical circuit breakers, water cutoff valves and other key aspects of your home are located and how to operate them.

So then it is time for the final touches, the drapes, and carpets and the furniture. Often a new home means new appliances and furniture, and a new start. After the final builder’s handover, you’ll have a new set of keys and a new life to live.

Of course it doesn’t end there. While under construction you dwelling place will have occupied all your attention.

Once inside, there’s the matter of the outside area, perhaps a garden, a patio, a pergola.

The list of ongoing jobs will no doubt keep the wonder alive for some time to come.

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If you’re into the latest in interior and exterior design, it’s a mustsee event. And we’re giving away THREE DOUBLE PASSES to immerse yourself in style, design, top tips and professional advice. It all happens on the 9th to the 13th of September this year.

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The Horizon

10

August 2015

15.2mm

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

Blueprint to handover

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From paper to palace Before embarking on a design journey it is important to choose the right captain to guide you through the creative waves.

It is only logical that the most successful projects are born out of harmonious relationships between client and architect built with the same pillars we base all our relationships on; trust, respect and communication.

Many people feel more comfortable choosing an architect that has been recommended by a friend and it is important to make sure they are the right fit for you and your design.

As this relationship will be long-term, a good personality fit is essential.

Assertiveness and taking a healthy interest in the project is another thing clients must remember.

Clients should have an active role in making sure the end result is their dream in three dimension. Organise for regular updates either over email, phone or face to face. The planning stage is especially important. Ask as many questions as it takes to fully understand the design. You are not expected to have all the answers but a clear idea of the process is something that will make it much easier.

Keeping an open mind is also important as this allows the architect

freedom to express their creativity and ensure you reap the benefits of their education and experience.

It is advised that clients keep well informed throughout the process and make sure you are clear about what you expect from your architect.

Communicate in a way that means both parties are on the same page at all stages of the process.

Involve your architect when choosing a builder. It is essential that the relationship between all three parties is collaborative. Word of mouth recommendations is a valuable way of compiling a shortlist. Request to see work of those on the list to help further the decision process. Explore magazines and contact people in the industry for further advice.

Before meeting with an architect put your thoughts and expectations down on paper. This helps as a starting point and leaves room for evolution.

Ask the architect to write down their understanding of what you want to check if their understanding is correct.

Discuss fees and services early on to eliminate surprises down the track.

Creating gardens of choice If your property needs a refresh or a completely new landscape design ensure you have a plan in mind. It is important to consider exactly what you wish to achieve.

If you have never designed a garden before it may become overwhelming with the choices available so make a list of the things you want and need. Would you like a vegetable garden or an outdoor play area for your children? Is a deck needed for social occasions or a spa pool area, an art studio or man cave?

Draw a map of the property and the places you plan things to be. Where would the trees go, what coloured flowers or plants do you like? Maybe use coloured pencils to show the array of colour.

Are there extra windy areas which may need more shelter trees planted and take notes of where the property gets the most sun and where it is throughout the day. Consider a focal point to work around such as sculptures, a blossom tree, a native plant section which attracts

birds or a fish pond. Garden centres can help with choices and advise on the different climates and what works well where and which plants work best for each situation or they can recommend designers to work with you.

If you decide to work with a landscape architect or designer they can consult and look at the plan you have drawn and will get an understanding of the direction you would like the garden or yard to go in and they can advise further.

Ensure they know your likes and dislikes and get a clear understanding of your budget. They can give estimates of costs for each stage of development or the project as a whole.

Landscaping can add great value to a property, however be careful of overspending and remember all gardens need maintenance to keep looking good.

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

August 2015

LIVESTOCK

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Bill Guest Farmers of New Zealand

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Time to ask the hard questions Fonterra dairy suppliers will soon know whether the payout forecast will again be revised in August, with the declining value of its dairy products.

The dairy giant’s competitor Open Country announcing its revised forecast milk price downwards into the range of $3.65–$3.95 from $4.70–$4.90 a kilo will spook the banks and their farmer clients, especially if the Fonterra current cash advance paid to farmers drops to the level of the Open Country announcement of $3.00 a kilo of milk solids for August and October.

With November to January forecast at an initial $2.75, the average New Zealand dairy farmer will face a financial operating loss from dairy returns in excess of $200,000.

NZX dairy futures price predictions that milk powder will decline even further to US$1,570 a tonne, is well short of the US$3,500 a tonne required for Fonterra to meet its current $5.25 per kilo milk solids forecast.

Dairy farmers now face the prospect of receiving the lowest payout since the 2002–2003 season’s $3.63 return. Fonterra’s seemingly belated

functioning but well designed product that customers want and they can command a significant premium against their competitors.

I doubt if Apple would contemplate ever auctioning off their products to determine the market price. In fact, they manage their own price in the market and aggressively protect its value.

If we are to really achieve an added value for our supposedly clean green safe dairy products how can we capture a premium when we dump thousands of tonnes, along with everybody else’s, on the auction floor for the customers to set the price.

How do we develop strong relationships with our customers and build customer loyalty when we treat them all the same in the auction room?

How do we ultimately build added value if we continue to use the crude auction process? This country for decades has talked about added value and done the actual opposite. The consultancy

announcement in recent weeks that it has now engaged consultants to look at its core business, and that there will be 500 staff redundancies, will be viewed by many as an action taken too late and insignificant with the company employing in excess of 18,000 people.

Fonterra dairy farmers need to stop being friendly, co-operative members and start becoming hard-nosed, demanding shareholders, speaking out and asking the hard questions.

Does the Global Dairy Trade auction system set up by Fonterra really maximise the price for our dairy products? No doubt there will be screams of affirmative from the industry but is it simply a cost effective way of easy selling?

Marketing is about producing a product the customer wants and optimising the price you receive.

Apple are one of the best marketers of our time. They produce a great

company, McKinsey, that originally promoted the mega merger resulting in Fonterra, has now been appointed to review Fonterra’s performance.

Well Fonterra has not got even close to delivering what was originally proposed and the company’s soft underbelly has certainly been exposed with the slump in prices.

The fact that they have to employ consultants to decide where they are going wrong says bucket loads about the effectiveness of both the management and the board. It’s unlikely any of the top brass will fall on their sword leaving the pain and hurt of their lack of skill to the lower echelons of Fonterra and their farmer suppliers. The board’s chairman and other directors are up for re-election at the forthcoming annual general meeting. History has shown that when company shareholders lose confidence and morale is low, it normally results in the non re-election of the chairman and directors.

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12

August 2015

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

RURAL WHEELS

Listening to their constituency

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MERGE LIKE A ZIP DRIVE SAFELY

by Andy Bryenton

Honda quad bikes have been a driving force in rural New Zealand for decades, with a similar staying power as the venerable Massey Ferguson tractor and the Toyota Hilux when it comes to onfarm popularity.

That’s not a position which can be kept by standing still, and Honda are careful when designing a new machine to keep the best of the old and incorporate those new little tweaks and changes which most benefit their core market.

In an era when many of the ATVs coming into the country seem to have been designed for multiple purposes, hunting and leisure as well as farming.

The TRX 500 then, is a chip off the ‘old school’ block. Not in terms of its underpinning technology, for the 500cc Honda is fully equipped with electronic fuel injection for a power boost over the old model, and electric-manual gear selection system as used in modern sports cars.

It’s in the area of design and robust construction that Honda have listened to their farming constituency, incorporating features for improved toughness and upping the TRX 500’s capacity for hard work.

This is not a quad bike geared toward leisurely trail rides in the country. It’s a farming tool first and foremost, as evidenced by the use of a swing-arm fixed rear axle.

Why is this indicative of the Honda’s farming focus?

Well, an independent suspension system in back would make more sense for busting the trails at high speeds. But this setup means you can tow more and lug more without bottoming out in the mud.

It also means less body roll on the steep bits that’s where the TRX 500 is quite at home, tackling New Zealand’s often far from flat pasturelands with

a load on. Honda’s focus on farming even goes as far as extra guards to keep that ever present mud out of the moving parts, and a rear rack that is the perfect size for that other vital farming essential, the dog.

An economical 500 cc configured with the signature Honda low centre of gravity provides enough power for any day’s work on the land, while still delivering in the vicinity of 100km to a single tank of gas.

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

August 2015

RURAL WHEELS

13

Crossover king all grown up

by Andy Bryenton

The original iteration of Subaru’s go-anywhere Forester somewhat defied description. Neither a conventional sports utility, nor a standard station wagon of its day, the boxy and voluminous vehicle became a favourite for two markets.

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Even today, you’ll see Foresters of that first run in either off-road spec, carrying kayaks and mountain bikes, or with gaudy 20 inch chrome rims, tinted windows and a vast sound system.

In a way, Subaru were ahead of the curve. This was a time before the term ‘crossover SUV’ existed, but the Forester filled the niche nicely, and as a model it has grown into the space with an almost organic evolution.

The 2015 Forester looks nothing like its ancestors, but that sense of rugged, up-for-it attitude shines through, even in a sector now bursting at the seams with rivals and imitators.

Some of that charm comes from its looks — this is no shrunken SUV, but stylistically appears to be more of a big, muscular wagon. It’s certainly evolved toward the shape of such other vehicles as Honda’s CR-V, but it’s clear it got there by a different route. This impression extends to the ride and responsiveness of the 2015 Forester, which has been tightened and stiffened LARRY 027 323 1979 SALES 06 759 5222

up to deliver sharper handling than one would expect from a vehicle in this class. Subaru’s rally heritage with the WRX series is here in spirit, if not in raw performance figures, though the 2.0 litre turbocharged Forester cranks out a respectable 250 horsepower, making it no slouch.

Add to this a very good scorecard in crash tests — surpassing many full sized SUVs — and a clever CVT transmission which has been programmed to feel like a slick, machine-gun quick six speed auto, and the Forester presents a package that’s hard to ignore if you are in the market for a lifestyle machine.

Even the simple, somewhat austere lines and colours inside the cabin speak more of utility — and being easy to clean — than lacklustre build quality.

Like the WRX Subarus of old, this is no luxury yacht, and it wears its intention to tackle trails and spearhead adventure holidays proudly.

Hopefully the 2015 Forester is put to its intended use by its buyers, because

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6100D Farming Lifestyle August.indd 1

3/08/2015 11:35:10 a.m.

14

August 2015

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

DAIRY

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Knowing the good, bad and ugly Dairy farmers are calling for industry to be straight up with them about the impact of fluctuating global milk powder prices to the sector and to their forecast payout.

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They want early warning signals and are demanding more reliable information; information which is direct and not dressed up. They want clarity. Why? Because good clear timely information allows people to act with some level of certainty about present and future conditions. It gives a clearer line of sight.

Note though, it is not always easy to be the messenger particularly when the implications are far reaching for the sector. One organisation that has stepped up to tackle a difficult problem head on is the New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA). They’ve put out a bold rallying cry for New Zealand Inc to be non-reliant on antibiotics for the treatment and well-being of animals by 2030. Why? Because the World Health Organisation predicts that antibiotic resistance, in both human and animal populations, will lead to the greatest health crisis of the 21 Century. NZVA’s announcement may not be warmly

embraced by all parties. Nevertheless it is 100% the right thing to do. Naming the problem and the goal, is the first step in addressing one and achieving the other.

For NZ Inc to be substantially nonreliant on antibiotics in 15 years’ time will require a mindset change in the industry and a more measured, managed and preventative focus for animal health and welfare across the farming sector.

While there are very good guidelines in New Zealand around prescribing,

growing antibiotic resistance has implications for farmers, breeders, vets, pharmaceutical companies, technology manufacturers and others.

In the end, concerted effort towards this goal will help strengthen the resilience of our animals and our economy.

So, next time your vet is on farm, talk to them about what is happening in the antibiotics space, why they do what they do and options for prevention and good practice.

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

August 2015

DAIRY

15

New safety game for children As part of DairyNZ’s education programme for children a new free online farm safety game that can be played on smartphones, computers and tablets is the latest innovation in the quest to improve farm safety.

Industry body DairyNZ’s cowbassador, Rosie the Cow, has teamed up with WorkSafe and ACC to create Farm Rules!, an engaging way for primary school children to learn about the risks involved with certain farm activities and how to minimise or avoid them.

Farm Rules! has children avoiding surprise dangers while tackling the challenges of farm life. From driving tractors and avoiding cow pats, players learn how to navigate through challenges to win the most points.

With bright graphics and plenty of sneaky scenarios, players can become a farmer for a day moving cows, driving quad bikes and tractors, fixing broken fences and spraying gorse. They have to try to do all the farm work while avoiding surprise dangers.

DairyNZ’s brand marketing manager, Andrew Fraser, says he thinks the new game will encourage some interesting conversations between kids and their parents.

“We all know how our children very quickly challenge us based on what they have learnt or seen.

“Children do a lot of their learning online now and games are a great way of interacting with them about various issues.

“We think we’ll reach a lot of adults with a game like this in a roundabout kind of way. It will certainly raise

awareness and create situations where the kids are advising their parents about what’s a risk and how to stay safe on a farm,” he says.

“It’s also a great way to entertain your kids while helping them learn about how to stay safe on a farm.”

Rosie is the cow character DairyNZ uses to help children learn about farming, cows and how milk is produced.

“She has her own Facebook page and

visits schools and community events.

She is the key educator in our schools’ programme where we provide a range of online resources for teachers that they can use in classrooms to teach everything from history to science to research skills.

“So far we’ve also had more than 5,500 children visit dairy farmers as part of the Rosie’s World Find a Farmer programme and 900 parents

have attended one of those farm visits too. This is the second computer game we have created and it all helps children, both urban and rural, to learn more about farming and how milk is produced,” says Andrew.

The new Farm Rules! game can be played online at www.rosiesworld. co.nz and is also available as an app for Apple and Android smartphones and tablets.

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August 2015 TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

BECAUSE YOUR STORAGE NEEDS BECAUSE YOUR CAN BE MET BECAUSE YOUR STORAGE NEEDS BECAUSE YOUR Regardless of size or design, we’ll STORAGE CAN BENEEDS MET STORAGE NEEDS CAN CAN BE BE MET MET be pleased to come in and help.

Regardless of size or design, we’ll be pleased to come in and help.

Regardless of size or design, we’ll Regardless or in design, we’ll be pleasedof tosize come and help. be pleased to come in and help.

BECAUSE B ECCOOL AUSE COWS BECAUSE UNCOVERED FEED-PADS UNCOVEREDMORE FEED-PMILK ADS PRODUCE BECAUSE AUOVERLOAD EE RCOWS NEGATIVELY N E G AT IB VEC LYcool OSVover L OA D BECAUSE Keep your herdCOOL summer ECFOFVpermanent LEUB TAFEED-PADS VEdairy OEELDU-housing.

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BECAUSE HAPPIER COWS & GOATS PRODUCE HEAPS BECAUSE HAPPIER COWS & HAPPIER GOATS BECAUSE BECAUSE HAPPIER PRODUCE HEAPS COWS & GOATS COWS & GOATS PRODUCE HEAPS

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