Waikato Farming Lifestyles, April 2023

There are no substitutes when it comes to Grandpas Feeders. If you aren’t satisfied in both the workmanship and the effectiveness, we will refund your purchase price in full, up to 24 months following purchase.

Māori grower finalists announced

Alix, from the Ngāti Kuhungunu, Ngāti Tu, Ngāti Maru, Ngāti Maniapoto hapū, is a health and safety adviser for Rockit Management Services, Hastings. Erica, from Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Maniapoto is a Pip Fruit and Kiwifruit manager for Kono NZ LP, Motueka, and Grace, from Taranaki, is a leading hand at Turners and Growers, Puketapu, Hawke’s Bay.

The Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer and Grower Award was inaugurated in 2012 and is designed to recognise upand-coming young Māori in the pastoral and horticulture sectors. The three finalists were selected from a number of entrants from around the country. It is only the second year the competition for the Young Māori Grower has been held.

“Despite all the recent challenges that the horticultural sector has faced in recent months, it is amazing to see three very worthy young Māori growers come forward as finalists,” says Aaron Hunt, representing Te Tumu Paeroa and the judging panel.

“All of them have demonstrated that they are committed to working in the sector and have fine leadership qualities. Horticulture is in the DNA of Māori, and they are naturally close to the whenua both physically and spiritually. It is perhaps why more and more young Māori are choosing career paths in this sector.

“Despite all the recent destruction caused by Cyclone Gabrielle and other storms, and the frost that hit the kiwifruit badly last October, there is still a strong spirit of hope and resilience in the sector. Māori also have the advantage in that they believe in the longterm plan and know that they will overcome the present headwinds, globally and locally.

“For young Māori, the horticulture industry remains a great career option offering an appealing outdoor lifestyle, but the lure of technology and innovation is taking the sector to new levels. The opportunities in this and other areas of the primary sector are limitless.

“Since the competition was inaugurated it has brought to the fore some outstanding Māori young farmers and growers who are exemplars for all young people in Aotearoa. This alumni is fast becoming a powerful network which is showcasing emerging Māori leaders who show industry achievement.

“This year’s finalists in the Ahuwhenua Young Māori Grower award will be at some of the field days being held by the Ahuwhenua Trophy finalists. This will give them the opportunity to widen their networks, meet leaders in the horticultural industry, and further develop their leadership opportunities.”

More details are at ahuwhenuatrophy. maori.nz.

GRANDPAS

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Visit our showroom: 12 Somerset Street, Hamilton

p. 07 846 1235 e. sales@handle.co.nz

w. www.handlesandbrass.co.nz

Alix Te Kere, Erica Henare and Grace Rehu have been named as the finalists in the Ahuwhenua Young Māori Grower Award for 2023.

Grace Rehu Rangitane, Taranaki

Alix Te Kere Ngāti Kuhungunu, Ngāti Tu, Ngāti Maru, Ngāti Maniapoto

Erica Henare Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Maniapoto

Luxton outlines rural plans

by Paul Campbell

“When farmers succeed, New Zealand succeeds” is the key message in the National Party’s rural policy released as a ‘Getting back to Farming’ package, which opposition leader Christopher Luxon says will cut the mountain of red tape that has buried farmers since 2017.

“New Zealand has the worst current account deficit in the developed world. If we don’t earn more from overseas, there will be consequences, like lower wages and less money to spend on the public services we all want and need,” he says.

“Farming is the backbone of our economy. Last year agriculture exports totalled $41 billion or 63 per cent of our goods exports. When farmers succeed, New Zealand succeeds.

“Since it was elected, Labour has introduced or changed more than 20 laws and regulations for farmers, adding extra costs on them often without any environmental gain. For example, wetlands are so poorly defined that farmers are having to go to court to determine whether land is a paddock that can be farmed or a protected wetland that can’t.

“I want world-class regulation for our world-class farmers. Regulation has a role to play, but rules should avoid prescription, target outcomes, minimise compliance, and be clear to provide certainty.”

The package contains 19 changes, including rules for the future and a twofor-one policy — for every new agriculture regulation; two must be removed.

Other provisions include:

● A Rural Regulation Review Panel to consider all regulations affecting farmers.

● Require new rules to be assessed for their costs to farmers with findings published

● Double the RSE worker cap from 19,000 to 38,000 and create a path to residency through the Accredited Employer Work Visa

● Ban foreign farm-to-forest conversions for carbon farming

● Allow normal rural activities on highly productive land

“This is only the start. This country does not need more rules. It needs better regulation,” Luxton said.

Other provisions include restarting live exports of cattle with strict animal welfare rules.

“National will require purpose-built ships and introduce a certification regime for the importers of destination countries to ensure animals live in conditions at the same standards required in New Zealand.”

It would give migrants brought into the rural sector under the Accredited Employers’ scheme a path to residency and scrap their median wage of $30 an hour, saying the industry average, which took into account skills and experience, was preferred.

“I want world-class regulation for our world-class farmers. Regulation has a role to play, but rules should avoid prescription, target outcomes, minimise compliance, and be clear to provide certainty.”

TE PUNA,

72C James Road

Land: 2.2590 hectares (more or less)

Opportunities like this don’t come on the market often.

This superb classic and timeless country retreat on 2.25 ha (6 acres) approx has it all. Boasting a beautifully appointed large family home (510sqm approx.), formal & informal dining/living areas, & indoor/outdoor flow to park-like grounds/gardens. A large, double-sided fireplace adds to the ambience of this sunny light-filled four-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence. Two studies (or hobby room/small bedrooms), huge 70’s style games room offers elevated garden views from a private balcony, solarheated pool, tennis court, garden house & 80 avocado trees that bring in extra income or can be managed separately. Plus, a modern high stud, three bay shed compliments this private, secluded residence in desirable Te Puna. Fabulous opportunity for retirees, lifestyle seekers, or a family close to Bethlehem/ Tauranga. Don’t miss out! On the market for a limited time.

FOR SALE: $2,995,000

VIEW: nzsothebysrealty.com/NTTG00848

Please phone to view by appointment

JEREMY PRYOR: M +64 27

National’s leader Chistoper Luxton

“Farming is the backbone of our economy. When farmers succeed, New Zealand succeeds.”

THE IMPORTANCE OF EXPERIENCE

BY ANN VAN ENGELEN

The 2023 Dairy Industry Awards, Waikato Dairy Trainee of the Year Natasha Price says she was encouraged to enter the awards by her employers and Primary ITO adviser.

“For me, the awards presented an opportunity to not only further my practical and theoretical farming knowledge but to gain valuable connections with like-minded and progressive people in the industry,” says Natasha.

“I am currently a farm assistant/2IC for Paul and Kate Manion on their 108ha property at Kiwitahi, Morrinsville, milking 280 cows. I grew up on a small dairy farm on the Hauraki Plains but never considered dairy farming as a career option until I was helping my dad on the farm during the 2020 lockdown.

“When I was young, I enjoyed spending time with the cows and had many as pets. As I got older, I would earn my pocket

money by teat spraying the cows or hosing down the yards.

“During the Covid lockdown, I spent a lot of time researching farming as a career option on Dairy NZ and Primary ITO’s websites, and the clear career progression and variety of day-to-day tasks really compelled me. I was pleasantly surprised with the large female presence in the industry and the scientific research that forms the basis of everything we do as farmers.

“These factors made farming seem like a pretty perfect fit for me, and after almost two years working on a farm, I still say what I love most about farming is hanging out with cows every day.”

Cyclone Gabrielle Temporary Accommodation

If your property was impacted during this severe weather event and you need support finding temporary accommodation, we can help.

The Temporary Accommodation Service is assisting displaced people to find suitable temporary accommodation.

Register your details with us and a staff member will call you in a few days to help you find suitable temporary housing. Our staff can also provide guidance on how to access support services such as insurance advice and financial assistance.

There will be a cost for temporary accommodation, but you can contact the Ministry of Social Development to see if assistance is available to meet this cost.

If you are the tenant or landlord of a rental property, www.tenancy.govt.nz has information on your rights and obligations after a natural disaster.

For more information and to register your details, please go to: www.tas.mbie.govt.nz

If you are not able to complete the form online, or wish to discuss your requirements, please call 0508 754 163 Our Service Centre operates:

Monday–Friday, 8:30am–5:00pm Saturday–Sunday, 9:00am–5:00pm

In her current position Natasha is the sole milk harvester

Natasha Price grew up on a dairy farm on the Hauraki Plains and is the 2023 Dairy Industy Awards Waikato Dairy Trainee of the Year

Natasha holds a Bachelor of Science with a double major in zoology and ecology at Massey University and completed Dairy NZ’s Go Dairy course in 2020.

“I am currently completing a New Zealand Apprenticeship in Agriculture with Primary ITO levels three and four. With my degree, I was going to go into research or do a post-grad in teaching because animals have always been my passion, and I wanted to teach biology and chemistry, but I had a change of heart once I was on the farm during the lockdown.

“I’m interested in the use of technology, development and integration of science to make farming more efficient, humane and better for the environment.”

Natasha says she is lucky to work on a farm that uses a cow monitoring system for cow health and mating.

“Every day, I see the benefits for staff and the cows and am eager to see how scientific technology in the dairy industry changes and evolves in the future. My future farming goals are specific and include an OE working in the agriculture sector before returning to New Zealand to be 50/50 sharemilking.

“I plan to then venture off-farm into an agriscience role where I’d like to give back to the industry through scientific research. Another goal is to complete the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme, as I believe this will be an important step in understanding the primary sector and developing my leadership skills.

“One thing I love about this farm is Kate eco-sources the native seeds and has made a nursery and grown a lot of native plants from those seeds. We have a planting plan as this farm is very hilly with a lot of areas that can’t be grazed by the cattle, so natives are a great solution. It is something I will carry over to other farms as I progress.

“My day-to-day activities include pasture management, weed spraying, being the sole milk harvester and things. For the past two years, I did the sole calf rearing myself, too, and really enjoyed that.

“I definitely encourage others into the industry. When I was growing up, it

wasn’t encouraged, and I wish I had been so I could have started earlier. I really appreciate all the opportunities the Dairy Industry Awards have granted me, and I recommend anyone at any level to enter. It is awesome, and my bosses have been fantastically supportive. They were past winners themselves and understood what it was about.

“I am moving to the United Kingdom this season with my partner Declan. We have a job on a dairy farm in Shropshire, and we are looking forward to that. We plan to be away for two years and then return to Waikato and look for a manager’s position and progress to sharemilking by 2030.”

BY AMY FIFITA

“Igrew up in Te Awamutu and moved to Hamilton in my mid-teenage years,” says Owen.

“I worked for Palmer’s Garden Centres for a number of years before working for Fonterra and moving south of Hamilton. My wife Tracy and I bought our own garden centre and ran that for 10 years. When we closed it, we began breeding rare breeds of poultry and started Hamilton Heritage Hens.

“I saw it as an opportunity and something a little different for us to utilise our little piece of land that we have here. I could develop it and run it from home.

I have bred heritage hens for about five years now.

“Tracy helps out and does what she can, especially if I have to go away, and I have two adult children, Josh and Abby, who have helped out from time to time. Josh has shown the most interest in the chicken venture.

“The journey has brought me joy so far. I have enjoyed meeting different people and raising the hens. You see them at a day old and raise them right through and it gives you a sense of achievement — watching things grow and seeing them be wanted by different people. “At the moment, the heritage breeds I have are Orpingtons in four different colours, Rhode Island Reds,

watching

Plymouth Barred Rocks, Light Sussex, Barnevelders, Golden Laced Wyandottes and Dawkins.

Owen says that he gets a sense of achievement

them grow from one-day-old chicks to grown hens

Heritage chicken breeder Owen Pratt began breeding poultry five years ago at his lifestyle block south of Hamilton.

Owen’s favourite breed is the Black Orpingtons and that he likes the flecks of blue and green that show through in the sunshine

“So far, the Rhode Island Reds, the Plymouth Barred Rocks and Hawkingtons are the most popular breeds. They are fairly well-known, and people generally stick to what they know.”

Owen also buys in day-old Hyline chickens, a commercial egg-laying breed, which he says many people are interested in currently.

“Some breeds can be more flighty, and some are friendlier. Most of the breeds I have are reasonably friendly and relaxed, and I like the different colourings. Having a flock of different coloured chickens really stands out, rather than the plain old Brown Shaver or Hylines.

“My favourite breed is the Black Orpingtons. They have flecks of greens

and blues on their feathers, and the colours pop out in the sunshine.

“Heritage breeds start laying in July or August and are full on until January or February. They start dropping off with laying once it gets really hot in the summer and stop in the May, June or July period.

“The eggs don’t taste much different to me, but you do get different colouring in them from different breeds. You can get anything from a whitey egg from an Orpington to a dark brown from a Barnevelder and all sorts of colouring in between. There are breeds like Araucanas, which I don’t breed, that have blue and green tinges to their eggs.

“In the short time I have been breeding, the highlights of making it a successful

business are seeing the little chicks developing from a day old and meeting different customers. We have a huge range of customers with different backgrounds.

“We are looking at hopefully developing more of a shop area so we can have more products that people can buy. We regularly change the breeds that we have and try to have different types so that people can have different choices when they come to us.

“It is important to keep the heritage breeds going. Many people look at how many eggs you can get, but, to me, it is

about keeping the older breeds alive so we still have them for the future. The older breeds are heartier and more resilient than the commercial breeds, and you don’t seem to get the health issues you get with the commercial varieties.

“I have a 50/50 passion for animals and people. I love being with animals, and it doesn’t matter what sort of animal it is. I feel relaxed around them. I also enjoy networking with different people. There are some really awesome people in the industry and great customers too.”

Owen started breeding heritage hens after he and Tracy closed the garden centre they had owned for 10 years

A WORLD-FIRST FOR AUTHOR

BY ANN VAN ENGELEN

“Professor Tony Attwood wrote the foreword. He is one of the top three Aspie specialists in the world, and I am honoured that he read the whole book and wrote the foreword,” says Dee.

“My mum said when I was three, she often found me talking to people who were struggling. When I was five, someone explained what a counsellor was, and I knew then that that was what I wanted to do with my life.

“I was one of the lucky people knowing what I wanted to do. People absolutely fascinate me. Some kids want to know how a hair dryer works and take it apart to see. I wanted to find out how people work.”

Her father disapproved of psychology, so when Dee finished school at 17, she moved out of home, worked in

the bank and studied for a psychology degree at night, eventually registering as a counsellor. Back then, there was no counselling degree.

She volunteered at Lifeline and started more honours and master’s papers.

“I had a very sick child and had to choose between study and my child. Of course, my child won over completing a thesis. I started my first clinic in March 1993 in Whangārei. I offer all types of counselling for people from Wellsford to Cape Reinga and beyond.

“Psychopathology was my main elective, and I completed levels one, two, three and honours. It is the study of everything that is abnormal, and I was completely fascinated by autism. In 1981, paediatrician Lorna Wing launched a paper on autistic personality disorders as her daughter was diagnosed autistic.

launched her much-requested book called The Aspie Book, written to help neurodivergent and neurotypical people better understand

themselves and each other.

“Lorna had discovered the papers Hans Asperger wrote and realised the documents described her daughter, and I read her paper in the early 1990s. It

explained many clients and the missing link between severe autism and people who didn’t behave neurotypically but functioned in every other way.

Dee often spends time relaxing at the pool

“Hans appears to have cooperated with the Nazi regime to destroy defective children. He found a group of different children and kept them to observe their behaviour because he was fascinated by them. These children had symptoms of what is now called Asperger’s. Because of his negative connotations and reputation for destroying many children, the name was changed from Asperger’s and renamed Autism Spectrum Disorder or Condition.”

Neurotypical describes individuals with typical neurological development or functioning. Neurodivergent is a nonmedical umbrella term describing people with variation in their mental functions and can include conditions such as Autism Spectrum Condition.

“I spent the last 30 years reading, studying and specialising in ASC, previously called ASD. My clients would try to read books on the subject and found them too academic. They said I explained

it so clearly that they wanted to take me home and asked, would I write down what is in my head for them.

“In 2019, I began writing my book explaining the academic stuff in very simple language. My clients kept asking, ‘how’s the Aspie book going?’ So that is what I called it — The Aspie Book.

“There are drawings to describe a moment, and I was gifted the drawings in the first chapter. Examples of difficulties people face include one tradesman I worked with who was excellent at his job, providing his structure was perfect. His van was so well organised his workmates would get what they needed from his vehicle.

“They messed up his structure, even if it was just three open boxes, and he would get behind in his work because he could take two hours to sort his van again. I showed him a picture, and he said, ‘that’s me — you captured me completely’. It was such a precious ‘wow, you got me’

moment, and he understood himself better, and we were able to discuss how he could talk to his employer about his situation.”

ASC isn’t a mental health condition — the brain works differently. Autism is a social development disorder in which people on the spectrum operate differently from neurotypicals.

The Aspie Book by Dee Jones can be ordered online at Amazon, The Nile

and other websites or purchased from bookstores nationwide.

“Professor Attwood said he recommends the book to his colleagues in all professional disciplines with autistic clients.”

Read part two of Dee Jone’s story to writing The Aspie Book next month.

Dee with her therapy dog Storm, who has spent many years working alongside her

The Aspie Book is the result of Dee’s clients asking her to write down her simple explanations of autism

ADVERTORIAL

Better home and living

Bio in ation

by Andreas Welte, principal EcoGrape/Sustain-Ability Ltd

The price of organic food is currently less affected by in ation than conventional products. How come?

Conventional agriculture uses a lot of synthetic nitrogen fertiliser, the prices of which have risen sharply. For example, ammonia synthesis, of which 80% is used in the production of fertilisers, consumes up to three per cent of the world’s energy requirements. Imports of animal feed have also risen sharply, contributing to the in ation in food prices.

Could organic products eventually become cheaper than conventional goods? When it comes to milk, butter and pasta, some regional, organic products are already cheaper than conventional, branded products. Still, they remain more expensive than private labels.

Do retailers deliberately keep the price difference high? High organic food prices are not solely related to trade. They also have a lot to do with the cliché

in our minds that if it is organic — then it must be more expensive.

More and more kindergartens, schools, hospitals, nursing homes and companies are opting for organic products. It can also be observed well in the organic food tenders submitted by contracted food suppliers — organic food has arrived in people’s minds. Is there a crisis looming for organic shops? Organic food remains in vogue despite high in ation. However, customers shop more frequently in the discount retailers and turnover in the specialist retailers is diminishing. The situation for specialist retailers and producers in the country is critical.

Customers continue to rely on organic produce, but they try to buy cheaper. Saving behaviour can be imagined as

steps where consumers start at different levels according to their wallets and the desire for sustainability.

From the specialist markets down to the organic brand products of the supermarkets to the organic private labels down to the discount retailers and at the lowest levels, most money is currently made with organic produce. Owing to the rise in food prices, this purchasing behaviour is seen across the entire food retail trade; however, for organic products, the price increase was lower.

The prices of conventional and organic foods are becoming more and more similar. Conventional branded dairy products are already sometimes more expensive than comparable organic products. One reason is that the price explosion for arti cial fertilisers and pesticides does not affect organic farmers. In addition, the organic shops cooperate much more closely with organic farmers and are a recipe for success. As a result, business on both sides continued to be good.

Could organic products eventually become cheaper than conventional goods?

Garden addition ideas

by Amy Fifita

Weather permitting now might be a great opportunity to get out into your garden or outdoor spaces and make them shine.

There are various benefits of heading outside to spruce up your property. One is that you can catch some vitamin D in the sunlight. It is also physical activity, but instead of hiking, you get to improve your outdoor area.

A quick tidy-up will give you a fresh slate to build on. Assess where you want to make upgrades and what works best for you. Add the details that you have always aspired to, like a birdbath. Making small additions like that promotes wildlife in your area. You may enjoy watching the birds bathe because sometimes it is the small things that can optimise your happiness.

Have a clear plan about what you want your garden or patio to look like, and then move from there. Do you want to clear an area for a relaxation space? Winter is coming up, so think about shelters and firepits to keep warm and dry.

Maybe you want to make an artificial pond to put in fish or other aquatic animals. You could either get a professional to do it or you could get stuck in and do it yourself. Look for plans online and talk to an expert and the council before you begin — you don’t want to dig into water pipes or other underground infrastructure.

For something less energetic, you could add some garden ornaments after

South Waikato Garage Doors

clearing the garden. You can look online, go to your local garden centre or even pick something up from garage sales or local artisans who make outdoor art.

You could even make your own if you enjoy sculpting, and it might be fun to get your children or grandchildren involved. Repurpose old flower pots to paint and add items to them or paint pebbles and hide them in the garden for the children to find.

If you have children, you could build a hut, or buy one, and decorate it with them. It can be a fun haunt for them to play, draw or hide in. Another idea is to have a sheltered sandpit — they can have fun outdoors and remain dry.

Simple things like planting seasonal flowers can make your garden more attractive or if you want to cut the cost of your food, plant a vegetable garden. Add a splash of colour from a vibrantly decorative plant pot or art pieces. If you want a garden path, make a mosaic path or use coloured concrete to lead to some of your favourite garden spots.

Whatever you decide, by the time you have finished, you can enjoy the improvements you have made. The additions will add to the memory bank of fun-loving time with you and your family.

Mosaic art could add some vibrancy to your garden if you want to add some colour

Located opposite Lake Taupo, Karaka Tree Motel is an excellent choice for travellers visiting Taupo, offering a family-friendly environment, guest laundry plus free on-site parking. The motel is a five minute drive from Taupo city centre. Karaka Tree Motel provides spacious studios and suites with a kitchenette and private bathroom. Some accommodations have a private geo-thermal spa bath. Karaka Tree Motel is priced to suit the budget conscious family, so you can spend your time enjoying all that the Taupo region offers.

by Andy Bryenton

Off-the-grid living doesn’t mean having to revert to the old ways when it comes to matters of waste; the long drop has been consigned to history by a range of clever ideas.

Even the successor to the ‘thunder shed’ of olden times has passed into history, with new septic and wastewater systems refining the concept of natural waste processing into an art. As living off the grid becomes a lifestyle goal instead of a frontier test of fortitude, some of these ideas are crossing over with other concepts to enhance the self-contained nature of the true eco-dwelling.

First up is the ability to use solar energy to run the pumps and controllers of a modern wastewater system. While these systems harness the power of microorganisms to digest and purify,

some require pumps and filters to get the resulting water to where it needs to go. Using solar energy to help with this process makes for a self-contained, gridfree result. Certain wastewater systems also utilise the water they produce to irrigate plants, instead of soaking into a wide expanse of paddock. Enterprising homeowners have adapted this to irrigate species that support bees and native fauna.

Another more radical idea, involves turning waste into biogas, which could conceivably power electrical appliances. It’s a concept being developed very

Shane Davis Bulk Spreading

seriously in metropolitan South Korea, where Cho Jae-weon, an urban and environmental engineering professor at the Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, has invented a system to turn flushables into voltage.

The mathematics of the BeeVi biobathroom are as follows; every person produces, on average, 50 litres of methane gas daily via fishable wastes. If this is collected, after the waste is processed in an organic ‘digester’, it could generate enough electricity to power an electric car for 1.5 kilometres. That seems small, but multiply it by the population of an entire apartment block, and you can see why populous nations like South Korea are very interested.

On a smaller scale, treatment systems exist which turn methane from the biobreakdown of waste into cooking gas. These can cost as little as a couple of thousand dollars to buy and promise utterly hygienic gas for the kitchen without any comical smells. It’s all thanks to anaerobic bacteria and the way they deal with effluent.

In a way, off-the-grid septic systems are an evolution to a world where each household is responsible for its own

footprint, and some good can be made from a substance that’s traditionally been seen as bad. In another, they are a return to older ways of thinking about waste; in pre-modern times, many of the substances we flush away were collected for various industries and utilised. We can do away with the smell and make the process cleaner and greener with technology, making it possible to live closer to nature without damaging the environment as we do so.

Irrigation for plants, clean biogas, and even electricity; wastewater need not be wasted, with new, ecological ideas at hand

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BIOLYTIX WORKS NATURALLY… SO YOU SAVE!

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• Ability to work in between milkings.

• Treat and repair rusted steel in dairy sheds or buildings.

• Interior and Exterior Plastering/Rendering.

• Painting –Spray roller brush systems available.

From the roof down

by Amy Fifita

We’ve had various weather events that would have tested the durability of our homes. Although the main cleanups are likely to complete, there may still be more checks to do. We are still in autumn and have at least a month to sort through some tasks to make sure winter is comfortable and effortless.

Check your roofs for loose nails and tiles and see what needs replacing. While up there, assess how much moss, algae and leaf piles are there. Depending on what needs to be done, you could do it yourself or call an expert to water blast and treat it.

Have a look at spouting for damages, leaks and blockages. Clear out what you can and consider installing one of the many leaf deterrents, such as leaf guards or gutter screens. Gutter spikes may be an option, too, if you want to deter critters from nesting in what is meant to be a useful building accessory.

Now it’s time to check the body of your home. Are there cracks or movement in your window or door frames? Best to sort that out before the winter weather rushes through next season. Door sweeps are an inexpensive and fast way to seal your home so the inside is nice and snug in the colder months.

Sort out your garage by replacing worn weather strips. These could be handy on doors and windows to weatherproof your home. One of the positives of doing these tasks now is that it could increase your energy efficiency with heating costs.

With the housework done, look at the rest of your property. Assess your septic tank. Does it need to be emptied or serviced? Take a stroll around the area to assess for leaks. Bring in someone who knows what they are doing.

While you are outside doing maintenance, have a look at your shed. Check the door hinges and clear and organise clutter. You’ll have a fair idea of what you’ll use more during the winter, so bring those items or tools forward to avoid digging through them later.

Your driveway may need some work done too. It might do well with a water blast after your roof is done. If you have a gravel driveway, see if it needs redoing. It improves how your property looks and is safer to walk and drive on.

Keep a record of what work is done so it doesn’t slip your mind, and you can keep up to date with what needs to be done later. It is also useful for future owners of the property and insurers.

Once again, it is time to get out our before-winter chores list and ensure we make the best of the weather while it is opportune.

You can use a water blaster to clean your roof, house and driveway as part of your before-winter tasks

Duck season a hunter’s tradition

by Andy Bryenton

Duck season opens on May 6 across Waikato and much of the North Island, with hunters anticipating a good season’s shooting following a damp, cool summer.

Shooters are permitted to bag eight mallards or grey ducks on opening weekend, with a limit of eight throughout the rest of the season. Interestingly, neighbouring Taranaki has just come out of a special paradise shelduck season, which added additional hunting days through the early months of 2023. These ducks will still be on the menu until June 25, with a bag limit of 10 everywhere south of Auckland.

The all-important long-range forecast for opening weekend predicts that things could go either way. There’s a strong chance of misty rain on Saturday, which duck hunters always pray fervently for. However, those heading out to the maimais should not discount the possibility of a rogue cold snap with clear skies and frost.

While it’s hard to predict the weather, other forms of preparedness are easier to take care of. Fish and Game reminds all duck hunters to secure their licence early and check out the new rules regarding shotgun magazine sizes if they are travelling away from home to shoot. Waikato and Hawke’s Bay hunters will be restricted to a three-shot capacity this season to give the ducks a more sporting chance.

It echoes the early rules surrounding semi-automatic shotguns upon their introduction. While Taranaki remains in line with firearms law in allowing for a five-cartridge magazine in semi-autos and pump shotguns, hunters will need a restrictor plug if they stay close to home and are reminded to use non-toxic shot while firing over water.

While seasoned duck hunting veterans are understandably eager to greet the dawn on May 6, there are others concerned with bringing young people into the sport and preserving it for future generations. Fish and Game is trialling a new system in Otago this year, which allows young people to have their own ballot, determining good spots on ponds and wetlands.

“Young hunters are usually introduced to the sport by parents, other relatives or older friends,” Fish & Game officer Steve Dixon said.

“These outdoor experiences can grow bonds of family and friendship, often creating lifetime memories. While harvesting game for the table, they’re also learning to appreciate our wetlands and rivers.”

By incentivising young people to get outdoors and hunt, the tradition of

Extra efforts are being made to encourage young hunters this duck season, looking to the future of introduced waterfowl populations and the wetlands where they live opening weekend will be in good hands for years to come. If the Otago trial goes well, other regions may follow suit.

“We’re always keen to see more young people getting into duck hunting,” said

Mr Dixon. “To help them along, we’ve launched a junior and novice hunters’ ballot for access on some of our wetlands during the first nine days of the duck season.”

Hamilton

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Where is the grass greener?

by Barbara Kuriger, MP for Taranaki-King Country

Our recent summer cyclones and record rainfalls caused many a debate about the cause. Top of the list was climate change.

Invariably, any talk about that led to emissions, and from emissions to farmers. In particular, those with cattle, especially dairy cows. From politicians and columnists, weather watchers to the next-door neighbour — everyone has an opinion.

Before I go on, my hand is very much up in the air as a dairy farmer with farming interests. That aside, it’s annoying to all farmers when the finger-pointing is aimed squarely at them yet again. In the past two years, I’ve written several columns about the need for people to be informed and to caution the uninformed.

I understand why the latter happens. We’re busy people.

So the 15-second soundbite, social media post or climate change commentator is far easier to take in than doing the research. That leads to many forming anti-ag sentiments. He Waka Eke Noa filed its report with the government on May 31 last year.

A government response was made on October 11, with a consultation document calling it a ‘pragmatic proposal to reduce ag emissions.’

Submissions closed just over a month later on November 18, and a section 215 report was released on December 21. However, this government seems hellbent on being ‘world leaders’ and designing an ag emissions system more focussed on revenue than results.

I’ve always stated that any man-made solutions to emissions in our everchanging environment need to come from science.

Farmers have been working on mitigating this for decades. Planting millions of trees, sequestering native bushlands and looking to

science for lower methane-producing ruminant animals.

If we’re the best in the world at what we do right now, where is the grass greener?

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Barbara Kuriger, MP for Taranaki-King Country

Farmall — a hundred years young

It’s a big year for Case IH’s Farmall tractor, the iconic machine celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2023.

While the history of the Farmall is a primary focus this year, Case IH is also highlighting the ongoing evolution of the smallest tractor in the range to meet the demands of customers seeking increased productivity and ef ciency for their businesses. It includes introducing new models to the Farmall range to suit the Australian and New Zealand markets.

Late last year, Case IH Australia/New Zealand launched the Farmall JXM 55 and 65hp models, increasing the local JXM range to four tractor options.

Seamus McCarthy, Case IH Australia/ New Zealand Product Manager for Mid Horsepower & Compact Tractors, said the decision to bring the JXM Series to Australia and New Zealand in 2018 was based on the needs of the hobby farmer and leisure market. The latest lower horsepower additions would only increase the range’s appeal.

“The Farmall JXM has the power and performance Farmall owners have come to expect, but in a very cost-effective package. With the addition of the 55hp and 65hp JXMs, the options are now even greater for those in the market for a low horsepower utility tractor to meet the needs of farmers with smaller landholdings and looking for a reliable, robust machine at a very competitive price point,” Seamus said.

“Since we introduced the JXM Series to our Australia/New Zealand range, it’s

been very popular. So we’ve listened to our customers and provided more choices within this segment. There is a demand for low hp models with a bigger frame and more weight, and the 55hp and 65hp JXMs will t this market perfectly.”

He said the JXMs were well suited to a range of farming businesses, whether it be as the hard-working utility tractor in a bigger operation, or the go-to machine in a smaller farm business.

The Farmall is also the focus of some attractive nance deals in the run-up to the end-of- nancial year. Great offers are available across the entire model

THE BEST SOLUTION FOR YOUR DAIRY FLOOR RESURFACING

Now there is an extremely cost effective and easy to use product that will bring back your damaged concrete floors to an approved standard.

COLOURCRETE DAIRY FLOOR RESURFACER has been specially formulated for the repair of worn or damaged concrete in the dairy industry. Dairy Floor Resurfacer is a two pack system combining a Portland cement, fine aggregate based micro concrete and sophisticated binders that provide superior, compressive, tensile and flexural strength as well as a very high level of abrasion resistance and adhesion. This product is suitable for repairing worn or pitted areas or to provide a non-slip surface where necessary.

A two pot clear epoxy sealer can be supplied to reduce the wearing effects of milk and acid.

COLOURCRETE DAIRY FLOOR RESURFACER can be supplied as a ‘do it yourself kit’ and delivered anywhere in New Zealand or applied, in most areas, by contractors.

COLOURCRETE DAIRY FLOOR RESURFACER

Part A is supplied in 20kg bags and covers approximately 3m square. Part B modifier is supplied in both 10litre and 20litre containers and approximately 4litres per 20kg bag would be required. After trowelling, the surface can be broomed or sponge finished.

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range, including the Farmall JXM, B, JX, C, JX and U Series. Customers who buy before June 30 can access an additional 12 months warranty, bringing the total warranty coverage to a full three years or 3,000 hours, and interest rates starting at a low 0.9%.

Seamus said the Farmall JXM stood apart from the other Farmall series because it offered value and productivity

bene ts across broad applications but with a more basic operator interface.

“Our JXM Series is de ned by the fact it’s a tractor up to a multitude of jobs in a variety of operations, which it carries out with maximum ef ciency and a minimum of fuss.”

For more information relating to Case IH’s end-of- nancial deal offers, contact your local Case IH dealership.

The Farmall JXM has the power and performance farmers expect in a cost-effective package

Avoca’s Agricultural Lime (AgLime) and Limestone are manufactured at our three lime quarries at Rarewa (Whangarei), Pokapu (Bay of Islands), and Port Albert (Wellsford). Both are also available at bulk stores in Dargaville and Te Kauwhata (Waikato). From all of these locations, we’re well placed to deliver Agricultural Lime products Northland and Waikato wide. Avoca also provide soil fertility testing and consulting as well as lime and fertiliser products and custom mixes.

NORTHLAND LIME

10

reasons to apply lime to your soils:

1

Increases nutrient availability; raising soil pH with lime to ~6.3-6.5 releases and balances soil nutrients for plant uptake, maximising return on your fertiliser spend.

Improves pasture yield. Trials have shown pasture production increases up to 68% and corresponding live weight gains. 2

3

Reduces need for N-fertiliser; lime stimulates N-fixation by legumes, and N-release from organic matter into plant available forms.

Improves P availability through a ‘phosphate sparing effect’ - trials in Northland showed 50-60kg more P available consistent over 3 years after applying 5t/ha of lime to a pH 5.8 soil. Optimal P availability occurs when soils are limes to pH 6.3-6.5. 4

5

Improves pasture palatability allowing for more even grazing of pasture and better pasture utilisation

NORTHLAND LIMESTONE FOR RACES

1

Increases soil biological activity and diversity; key to nutrient availability, good soil structure & porosity, and ultimately pasture/crop yield. 6

Increases resilience to droughts, floods, and runoff/erosion, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and greater root penetration for pasture/crop growth by flocculating (loosening) your soil to improve soil structure and porosity 7

8

Increases water holding capacity in the dry and water drainage in the wet. Lime drives down magnesium in ‘tight, high Mg’ soils such as estuarine soils found in the Hauraki Plains.

Reduces elemental toxicities evident at low pH levels, e.g. Al, preventing subsoil acidification and improving root growth, root development, and reduces P-fixation. 9

Provides calcium which is essential for both plant and animal growth and health 10

5

Improve cow flow and lower your costs related to lame cows; vet bills, lost production, mating issues and getting cows in calf, and the possibility of having to cull the cow. The cause of cow lameness is often as simple as poor or stoney race surfaces - smooth them out with Avoca’s race limestone!

Avoca’s race limestone is cost effective. Avoca screens its limestone to GAP30 & GAP40, giving you a consistent product size that will spread further as it can be applied more thinly. 2

3

benefits of limestone races:

The other advantage of screening to GAP30 and GAP40 is that there is an increased amount of fines as the larger stones are recirculated for crushing. These fines provide the glue to cement the larger pieces of lime stone together.

Avoca’s race limestone forms a hardwearing surface in high traffic areas. Its natural cementing properties allows it to pack down to a durable surface with no sharp stones, as found with other rock types. 4

The smooth edges of Avoca’s limestone reduces stone bruises and hoof infections in your herd. 5

For more than 75 years, Avoca has been supplying Northland farmers with expert advice and top quality agricultural lime and fertilisers to ensure better crops and healthier livestock.

Giving steel a new lease on life

A Taranaki-based business is providing steel solutions for clients nationwide.

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Magnesium and hypertension

by John Arts

The Women’s Health Study is one of the most in uential medical studies; it followed nearly 30,000 Female Health professionals over 45.

It is still going now after 30 years. One of the many observations was the relationship between magnesium and hypertension (high blood pressure). The study showed that magnesium intake was inversely related to hypertension; those with low levels had much higher chances of developing hypertension.

Egmont Industrial Supply Ltd is a New Zealand-owned and operated steel stockist of new and used steel with more than 55 years of combined experience in the steel products industry.

Located in Egmont Village, under Mt Taranaki, this small team of eight provides a wide range of steel products to clients from different industries and sectors around New Zealand.

Over time, the company has established a strong reputation as a reliable supplier of various products such as new and used: steel pipe, casing, culvert, walkway grating, steel mesh, plate, steel sections and sheet piles.

Specialising in large diameter and heavy wall pipe in particular, it has become renowned for its expertise and cut-to-length and fabrication service on its wide range of stock.

Egmont Industrial Supply Ltd has three key unique selling points:

 An experienced and knowledgeable team who work closely with customers to understand their needs and provide tailored solutions to their requirements, whether it is a custom order shipped from overseas or a small piece of surplus steel cut to length

 Ability to provide timely and ef cient delivery of products to clients,

understanding the importance of prompt delivery. Working with freight companies nationwide, providing a quick turnaround from the rst day of contact to goods being dispatched

 A range of used/surplus steel. Giving it another lease of life, while at the same time being able to pass on the savings to the client

Having built a strong reputation for its excellent customer service, quality products, and timely delivery, they have a loyal customer base that spans across industries, such as engineering, civil construction, drilling/piling, farming, contracting, building, logging or the home DIYer. Give them a buzz today on 06 752 2011.

Indeed, it seems as if magnesium can help many conditions, including cramp, heart rhythm, mood, sleeping and many more. That should not be a surprise because of the special role of magnesium in governing muscles and nerves. Calcium is the mineral that causes muscles to work and nerves to carry impulses. Magnesium helps return muscles and nerves to a resting state.

How does magnesium help hypertension? Our blood vessels have a special type of muscle called smooth muscle. Just as a de ciency can cause cramp or tightness in our skeletal muscles, so low it causes smooth muscle to lose its natural suppleness. That can impede blood ow and forces the heart to pump harder to circulate blood.

The main mechanism is that magnesium is a powerful calcium channel blocker; many hypertension medications are calcium channel

blockers. It allows the smooth muscle in blood vessels to relax, thus allowing for enhanced blood ow.

The challenge is to get the right forms of magnesium in the right doses. My preference is to use three different forms of magnesium: natural marine magnesium from seawater is well-proven, magnesium citrate, and probably the most effective, magnesium glycinate. We then need to get the right doses. That is where once-a-day supplements can be dif cult, as you cannot modify the dose. My magnesium has a dosage range of one to four capsules, so it can be customised to a person’s needs.

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 newsletter at abundant.co.nz.

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This is a blend of 3 highly bioavailable forms of Magnesium for rapid absorption and better results.

• Marine magnesium 121 mg

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How can Magnesium Triple help?

• These high grade forms of Magnesium are quickly absorbed to get rapid benefits

• It is ideal to help relax sore or tight muscles

• Can help with restful sleep

• To help with PMS related tension

• Helps muscles recover after exercise

• Supports healthy heart rhythm

John Arts comments:

“Abundant Health rapid absorption Magnesium Triple can really help tight or stressed muscles and for a good night’s sleep. The 3 different forms of Magnesium mean you get fast results. The normal dose is 2 before bed.”

(John Arts, Founder, Abundant Health)

“The challenge is to get the right forms of magnesium in the right doses.”

Yard crew: Nick, Richard and Jordan

Office team: Alannah, Shae, Dan, Steve and Michelle

FIREARMS LICENCE HOLDERS

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE ‘THE ROAR’AND GAME BIRD SEASON

Information from Te Tari Pūreke - Firearms Safety Authority

If you’re a firearms licence holder, you’ll need to know about changes to the storage and transport rules for firearms and ammunition, and changes to the seven rules of firearms safety.

Regulations were updated in February 2022, and to help Kiwis make sense of those changes, Te Tari Pūreke, the new firearms regulator, published a Secure Storage and Transport Guide.

You can download a copy of the Secure Storage and Transport Guide from www. firearmssafetyauthority.govt.nz/firearms-safety

Storage and transport for firearms and ammunition, key points

Transportation

If you’re driving to a hunting location, your firearm needs to be inoperable during your travel and, ideally, concealed from view. This means removing the bolt or an essential part (or if that’s not possible, applying a trigger or cable lock), or transporting the firearm in a locked carry case.

The ammunition needs to be separately and securely stored in a locked glove box or similar storage area, if practical.

And please, whatever you do, once you’ve finished using your firearm, lock it away. Never leave any firearms in your ute, shed, home or vehicle unsecured at any time.

The only exceptions to the firearms and ammunition transport rules are if you’re using the firearm on a farm for farm-related activities, or you’re doing legally-authorised hunting or pest control (such as a regional council employed pest controller) and the licence holder is in the vehicle or the immediately vicinity of the vehicle with the firearms in it.

Make sure you read or download a free copy of the storage and transport guide to keep up to date with the details of the changes: www.firearmssafetyauthority. govt.nz/firearms-safety/storagetransportation

The 7 rules of firearm safety

Rule 1

Rule 2

Rule 3

Rule 4

Rule 5

Rule 6

Rule 7

Ammunition

All ammunition must now be stored in a locked container. You can now only store ammunition with firearms in a gun safe that has a separate lockable compartment with a different key than the key for the gun safe. You must keep these keys separate.

If your safe doesn’t have a separate lockable compartment, you need to store ammunition in its own secure storage container with a key, combination, or padlock, or in a stout locked cupboard.

Taking a break when you’re travelling with firearms

For those who travel with firearms to hunt locations, your inoperable and secured firearm can be left in your vehicle unattended, for example during a break in a journey, for up to 60 minutes. But you need to lock your vehicle and stay within the immediate area or vicinity of the vehicle and meet other conditions.

Read the storage and transport guide for full details: www.firearmssafetyauthority.govt.nz/ firearms-safety/storage-transportation.

Under no circumstances can firearms, ammunition or other arms items be left in a vehicle overnight.

Treat every firearm as loaded

Always point firearms in a safe direction

Chamber a cartridge only when ready to fire

Identify your target beyond all doubt

Check your firing zone

Store and transport firearms and ammunition safely

Avoid alcohol or drugs when handling firearms

The seven rules of firearm safety have changed.

Get ahead of the changes to firearms safety rules with the Firearms Safety Code. Buy the book from www. firearmssafetyauthority. govt.nz/firearms-safety and have it shipped to your door or download a PDF copy for free.

Firearms licences online

Apply for a firearms licence and update your contact details online using MyFirearms: a secure, online portal available at www.firearmssafetyauthority.govt.nz

There will be no charge to registering your firearms.

Te Tari Pūreke and the Firearms Registry

We want to enable the legitimate use of firearms for feeding our whānau, conservation, farming and recreation while keeping our communities safe. This involves making sure firearms licence holders are fit and proper to possess firearms and are meeting the obligations of their licence. New Zealand will have a firearms registry from 24 June 2023. The Registry is one of the ways we are strengthening how firearms are managed in New Zealand.

Cyclone adds to spinifex problem

The resilience of dunes and the sustainability of the sand-binding kōwhangatara/spinifex is being keenly felt by Coastcare groups in the eastern Coromandel Peninsula following Cyclone Hale.

“Summer offers a small window of opportunity to collect the seeds of the native dune grass from which the following year’s plantings are grown,” says project manager of Mercury Bay Environmental Trust, Kim Lawry.

“With many of the seedheads swept away in Cyclone Hale’s fury, Coastcare groups from Whangapoua, Matarangi, Kūaotunu, Ōpito Bay, Wharekaho, Buffalo Beach, Onemana and Whangamatā weren’t able to get as many this year.

“Collecting seed heads has become an important part in the process of dune restoration. Kōwhangatara is the main dune-forming indigenous plant in New Zealand. Historically, spinifex didn’t reproduce by seed.”

They survived the dynamic seafront through a cycle involving retreating inland and advancing back toward the water.

“After a storm, spinifex would naturally walk backwards and send runners inland to re-establish further up the dune. That was before coastal squeeze interfered with this process, and now we can’t just leave them to it. On many of our beaches, spinifex has limited space to retreat inland. We don’t have enough room between the shoreline and the houses and roads.”

Collected seed heads are instead sent annually to Coastlands plant nursery in Whakatāne for germination and growth.

“The window of opportunity to pick is small. You have to pick plants at the time

Coastcare volunteers collect spinifex

the plants are releasing. We go in and tickle under the heads, and when they pop off, we take them. If you pick before the seeds are mature, then the germination rate is lower. Another issue threatening kōwhangatara supply is the difficulty of growing the plants with no financial return for all the hard mahi.

“It gives commercial nurseries no incentive to assist in spinifex supply. After manually extracting seeds from the heads, each one has to be squeezed to check it’s viable. In the past, we could

keep up with demands, but the more we’ve learnt about how important spinifex is, the more our demand has increased.”

The number of viable seeds for each head has gone down considerably. Innovation in growing spinifex is required to ensure its sustainability.

“The prevailing winds we’re getting now may not allow for pollination to happen as it should. The idea for a nursery in Whitianga has been raised though it would require a purpose-built nursery that

supports the narrow temperature ranges required for spring germination.

“We need to talk to universities to find a better way to grow spinifex that is more efficient and less labour intensive. Ultimately, resilience of dunes is our main aim, and that won’t happen if we give up because of setbacks. Storm damage from time to time is expected. If a few trees fall down, you don’t give up on a forest. So long as there are plants left behind, restoration can still happen.”

Coastcare volunteers collect spinifex seed heads at Buffalo Beach during summer

seed heads at Buffalo Beach during summer