Waikato
FARMING Lifestyles
December 2017 Edition
29,458 copies DELIVERED FREE to every rural delivery address in Waikato and King Country
Farming with a vision
Helping others advance
P4
Has your grass got the guts to give your herd what they need?
Shearing for a cause
P6
P8
Best on earth Organx™ fertilisers
Girls can do anything Page 10–11
Next level Amarok All this for only $59,990
/ Designer Graphics Pack
/ Sports Lid & Bars
/ Tinted Windows
/ Running Boards
/ Deck Liner
490 Grey Street, Hamilton East
|
/ Full Leather Interior
+ORC
/ 18” Limited Edition Alloys
www.ebbettvw.co.nz
|
07 838 2949
2
December 2017
WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES
Booming sector ready for new challenges
The Waikato Farming Lifestyles is published with pride by NorthSouth Multi Media Ltd, a privately owned NZ company. Phone: 0800 466 793 Email: info@nsmm.co.nz
The growth in New Zealand’s primary industry exports are providing the sector a strong base to deal with the challenges ahead.
General Manager: Deb Wright | debw@nsmm.co.nz | 021 639 696 Production Manager: Jessica Wright Editorial: Denise Gunn Paul Campbell Andy Bryenton Ann Morgan
Graphic Design: Dylan Hansen Callum McDonald Advertising: Ra Toia Fiona Tohu Betty Willetts Peter Mansfield
Production: Viv Webb Teela Korau
MEMBER OF:
Accounts: accounts@nsmm.co.nz Distribution: Laurie Willetts Website: www.farminglifestyles.co.nz
Distribution details Print run 29,458. DELIVERED FREE to every rural delivery address in Waikato and King Country.
Building and Maintenance • Decorating Rural Response • Transportables CALL TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE – 0800 ASAP NOW (0800 272 766)
www.asapcontracting.co.nz
The latest Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries report shows the sector’s exports will grow by 8.5 per cent in 2018, to $41.4 billion. “This would be the largest annual increase since 2014 when dairy prices rose to very high levels,” says Mr O’Connor. “Growth this year is spread across all sectors and these gains are expected to be built on a more sustainable foundation.” Dairy exports are leading the way, with a forecast increase of 15 per cent to $16.8b despite the wet spring affecting production. “Despite a decline in cow numbers, there has been some better value for exporters. Meat and wool exports are forecast to grow 4.2 per cent to $8.7b, with lamb, beef, mutton, and venison doing very well. “The forestry sector is on pace for a third consecutive year of strong export growth with exceptional demand from China. Forestry exports are forecast to reach nearly $5.7b. Our horticulture sectors are leading the charge in BAYLYS BEACH HOLIDAY PARK
Experience the west coast Taste Kumara where it’s grown ~ Enjoy Surfing or Fishing ~ Explore the Kauri Forest and say hello to Tane Mahuta ~ Visit the pristine Kai Iwi lakes ~ Learn about the area’s rich heritage in the local museums ~ or just relax and let the pressures of life disappear.
13kms west of Dargaville A family friendly place to be...
Accommodation to fit all budgets
KICK START YOUR CAREER TODAY. ENROL IN ONE OF OUR AGRICULTURAL PROGRAMMES.
Land Based Training is now taking enrolments for 2018 Level 3 New Zealand Certificates in: Farming Systems
• Self Contained Units – 3 Bedroom cottages – Baches – Tourist Flat • En suite cabins • Cabins (4 to 6 people) • Linen Hire
• Tents & Power sites • Campervan sites • Kitchen, Toilet, Shower, Laundry, BBQ and outdoor setting • Children's playground • Internet access
For further information or bookings contact your hosts: Trish & Mark Rolfe - Ph 09 439 6349
0800 229 597
Email motorcamp@baylysbeach.co.nz
Damien O’Connor, Agriculture Minister
producing high-value products tailored to target markets overseas. This is true for kiwifruit, wine, and apples — there are also opportunities for cherries, avocados, and berries. “We are a primary producing nation and it is very encouraging that the prospects for the primary industries look so bright. However, New Zealand and other primary producing nations face the global challenge of sustainability — we need to provide good quality, nutritious food for a rapidly rising global population, in a way that is sustainable. “This means placing an even greater focus on high-value production, sustainable resource use, managing the risks posed to our primary sector by harmful pests and diseases, and meeting ever changing consumer demands.” Horticulture exports are forecast to grow 5.2 per cent. Wine, kiwifruit, and pipfruit are contributing to this growth story. Wild capture fisheries products and aquaculture volumes are expected to contribute to a 4.4 per cent increase in seafood exports and honey export volumes are forecast to resume growth
BRANDERSON HOMES LTD PRE BUILT HOMES
Vehicles, Machinery and Infrastructure Pastoral Livestock Production Land Based Sustainability Practices These courses are open to everyone (Eligibility criteria applies) Contact Lorraine on: 027 337 8010 www.landbasedtraining.co.nz
OFFICE LOCATED AT: 37 HAUTAPU RD, CAMBRIDGE � TELEPHONE: 07 827 3901 Email: branderson.homes@xtra.co.nz ������������������� Web: www.brandersonhomes.co.nz Please send us an information pack about your Transportable Pre-Built Homes Name Address Phone __________________________ Style/Size Please mail to: Branderson Homes Ltd, PO Box 434, Cambridge, 3450
WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES December 2017
Look after your trout catch
3
With the summer fishing season underway, Fish & Game has launched an initiative to educate anglers on how to properly look after trout they catch. Fish & Game has produced videos, along with a new brochure and pages on its website to inform anglers on the best way to handle fish they catch. “Proper handling of trout is a good way to ensure it is fit for the table and for anglers to ‘play their part’ in sustaining fish stocks,” says Fish & Game communications manager Don Rood. “All anglers need to be aware that how they handle any trout they catch is critical while they decide to keep them for dinner or release the prime breeding stock — you want them to be in the best possible condition.” He says some practices to avoid are fighting a trout for too long, using too light gear, dragging trout onto the rocks or boat deck and not taking enough care removing hooks. “If you are keeping them for the table, make the decision and kill them quickly and humanely. They are a great source of wild food and for many anglers, hunting and gathering for their families is a key part of the fishing experience. Our publicity material advises on the most humane way to dispatch a trout.” “Use the heaviest line you can get away with. Too light a line means you will have to fight the fish for longer and that takes a toll — a tired fish has much less chance of surviving.
100 IT’S NOT A TARGET
Remar Knitwear & Adage Socks
09 443 5914
OCKS S AND S SSORIE E DING C U C L A C , IN AR AMILY.. F KNITWE ORK E W IR T E EN CUSHY FOR TH BOOT & KS, C K O R S O T W MBOO UM. ADULT D POSS KIDS GU CKS AN SOCKS, O S O IN OR MER OUTDO
The proper way to handle a trout, keeping your hands away from the gills
“Use a single hook or consider barbless hooks and aim to land your fish quickly. Modern reels have great drags, so make the most of these and the rod’s leverage to get the trout close enough to net.” Preferably use a knotless net to land your fish and keep the trout in the net and in the water while releasing it. Work quickly to unhook the fish gently, preferably with long nosed pliers and avoid touching the fish. “Wet and cool
Oi!
DON’T TXT & DRIVE
your hands before handling the fish and consider using gloves. If you want a photo, make it quick and if you have to hold the fish, do it gently with one hand around the tail and the other carefully cradling it. Keep your hands, hooks and anything else away from the trout’s gills.” For more information visit the Fish & Game website or view the ‘looking after your trout’ instructional video on Fish & Game’s Youtube pages: youtube.com/ watch?v=yf4Hn5EydRI
MADE IN NEW ZEALAND Buy directly from the manufacturer.
ONLINE STORE
www.adagesocks.co.nz
Anything… Anywhere… Anytime!
• Long and wide loads • Machinery movers • On site work • Water tank shifts • Container and shed lifts • Semi, flatdecks, trailers • Pallet Deliveries
Autotrimmers Matamata Ltd For all your Auto Trimming & Upholstery Requirements • All Vehicle Trimming Old & New • Old & New Upholstery • Truck • Tonneau • Trailer & Crate Covers • Motorbike & Truck Seats • Carpet Binding • Shade Sails & Awnings • Boat Cover/Canopies
Free Quotations Ring Today: 07 888 5484 Email: autotrimmers@xtra.co.nz AU-7433275AC
For a FREE QUOTE phone us on 07 847 2074
EVO STEAM CLEANING WE PROVIDE AN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR
CHEMICAL FREE CLEANING SOLUTION No job is too big or too small. We will have your house or roof ready for painting.
Path, decking, concrete ready for outdoor entertaining. Commercial & Industrial building looking like new.
BUGGER ITS METAL! I CAN’T GET IN!
AH S#!T
We are a steam cleaning service that guarantees quick sanitisation of all areas.
• Steam destroys and removes grease, grime, mold, lichen and all other germs. • Faster and more economical than water blasting. • NO CHEMICALS. Before
After
We now do complete house cleans from top to bottom including "P" affected homes
www.evosteamcleaning.co.nz | 07 888 1950 | Lynne: 022 310 1549 Graeme: 027 258 4776 | info@evosteamcleaning.co.nz
STOPS LEAVES, RATS & BIRDS
4
December 2017
WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES
FARMING WITH
A
fter a spending over 30 years in adventure tourism, Dave was disturbed by the amount of pollution showing up on the land and in the waterways. Anne, a dancer and theatre actress, has always had a keen interest in health, nutrition and the environment. So with this in mind they wanted to find something that would serve Earth’s growing environmental problems. They had not heard of hemp until Dave’s brother briefly mentioned it one day in 1985. “As soon as I looked into it, I thought, wow this is amazing,” said Dave. It was in 2008 that Dave and Anne grew their first one acre trial and ‘Hemp Farm New Zealand Limited’ was
established. The Jordan’s saved the seeds from that crop and used it to grow two acres the next year. In their third year they grew 32 acres. “From that point on we really started to learn some lessons. This was not just an ordinary crop — especially when it comes to harvesting — it’s very tricky.” There’s two main types of hemp. The shorter varieties grown for the seeds, are mostly used to make food. The taller varieties are grown for their stalk and can be made into things like fabric and building materials. Hemp is generally planted in September-October. Dave said that it must be planted into good, fertile soil. “You can use organic fertiliser, but it’s important to get it right. But once you
Photo credit: plantculture.nz
With a passion for health and well-being, Dave and Anne Jordan started their hemp farm with a dream to create a whole new industry in New Zealand.
Anne and Dave Jordan from Hemp Farm New Zealand Limited
WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES December 2017
‘state of the art’ world class, there’s nothing like it anywhere in the world yet.” said Dave. “We will be able to make anything that can be produced from oil, protein or cellulose with hemp. Using hemp to make plastic means no oil spills, no drilling and affordable biodegradable plastics. Growing hemp also reduces greenhouse gases, so hemp plastic has a very low environmental footprint. Cellulose is used in 3D printers, so hemp cellulose can be used to make almost anything — every product that’s around you can be made of hemp.” said Dave.
N RUSL LI
G IN
in New Zealand — it’s pretty exciting. Processing hemp stalks after harvest is something that Dave and Anne have had a breakthrough in however. After almost 20 years of development, last season they processed their hemp stalks with the Clarke D8 decorticator, named after its late inventor Adrian Clarke. Traditionally processing the stalks can take up to six months, as they are left outside to break down. Then they would have to go through a hammer mill facility to separate the fibre from the hurd. In contrast the Clarke D8 separates the hemp straight after harvest. “It’s
Handgun spraying for gorse control, blackberry control & vegetation control within drains. Fully serviced Nissan Navara 4×4 spray rig. 800 litre capacity tank & two hose reels with 200 metres of hose with guns.
E
OL
Dave Jordan separating the seeds from mulched hemp during last year’s harvest, in April 2017
GORSE/BLACKBERRY SPRAYING
CO
Photo credit: plantculture.nz
WE
actually put the seed in the ground, you don’t do anything, there’s no pesticides or herbicides required.” It generally takes four months to grow and it is harvested just before going to seed. So far, the Jordan’s have harvested mostly by hand and trialled a few machines with no success. Even places like Canada and Europe, harvesting hemp for fibre is an issue. Dave said most farmers overseas use a grain harvester to take the seeds off the top, wasting the rest of the plant. “But we’ve chosen to go to the extreme and work with tall crops, three-and-a-half metres, that produce lots of fibre, hurd and seeds.” Most of the hemp they have grown has been used to build up their seed stocks, and by universities and manufacturing companies for research and development projects. With the lack of processing infrastructure in New Zealand, there is not a lot of local hemp products. The Jordan’s have their own line of hemp food products which they get from Canada. “It’s three times the price to process in New Zealand than it is to get from countries that have been growing and making lots for years. And there is no certified organic here, so until we are growing enough of our own certified organic, we’ll keep on bringing it from Canada.” “We want to make sure that when these researching companies are ready to go, we can actually supply — and we can. It all boils down to our harvesting method. Give it ten years, there’ll be thousands of acres grown
R D C ONT
ATTENTION SEPTIC TANK OWNERS Septi-CureTM is:
Cost Effective Easy To use Improves Soakage Reduces Solids and Scums Eliminates Nasty Odours Reduces Costly Pump-outs
A satisfied customer in Hamilton has been using Septi-Cure™ for over five years. He says this allows them to have an odour free septic tank with low maintenance costs. He also says that his service person is amazed at how well Septi-Cure™ works, keeping their tank in very good condition. *Results may vary
CAREERS
The new government plans to see a billion trees planted in the next ten years – double our present forest planting rate. There are dedicated facilities to supply this workforce:
Before*
Breakthrough Product Developed for your Septic Tank
0800 109 202 www.ecoworld.co.nz
After*
• The University of Canterbury’s School of Forestry – Degree through to PhD in forestry and forest engineering. • Toi Ohomai in Rotorua – NZ Certificates in forest management and operations, as well as a Diploma in forest management. • NorthTec in Whangarei – NZ Certificates in forest skills and harvesting. • EIT in Gisborne – NZ Certificates in forest harvesting and operations.
Also Available at:
Four of the entryways for the whole lot of people we urgently need to fill the ranks of foresters, engineers, scientists, drivers, processors and managers who keep our six-billion-dollar export industry growing.
www.nzwood.co.nz
OPERATING ALL YEAR ROUND
PH 027 242 2766 Te Kuiti
Best time to contact is 6pm onwards
Like us on Facebook
5
6
December 2017
WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES
Helping others advance by Ann Morgan
The establishment of Te Whangai Trust by Gary and Adrienne Dalton in 2007 to run native plant nurseries and planting operations originating from the family dairy farm as a community driven life and work skills centre resulted in opportunities for others to learn and advance in their lives.
T
he Trust focuses on resourcing environmental obligations while providing skills and experience to people whom are struggling to find employment, or a sense of belonging to overcome adversity or lack of employment opportunities. “We help people develop their skills, experience working within a business environment and at the same time create an environmental legacy for the community that is supporting them. It breaks down social, cultural and economic barriers,” says Adrienne. “We now employ 28 people across four ‘training platforms’ spread across north Waikato, South Auckland and Auckland. Our projected 2017
production is 600,000 plants, and we hope to increase production to exceed one million in 2019. The couple were finalists in this year’s Auckland Ballance Farm Environment Awards and won the region’s Hill Laboratories Harvest Award. “Our farm is in the Hauraki/Waikato region, but the three nurseries in the award complimented the farming and growing theme and build rural urban landcare partnerships. “We were so happy for our work to be recognised. Life is about combining our two passions, people and the environment. We took the Maori Whangai philosophy because people are the environment and the environment
Attention Farmers
Problems with Iron and Manganese?
Te Whangai Trust focuses on restoring the environment and creating a legacy for future generations
TEST RIDE THE NEW 2018 S AND
* be ain to Win Harley-Davidson® on® Cooler Chair
NZ Designed Rural Filtration Systems for the Removal of Iron and Manganese and Other Rural Problems
• Results guaranteed • Fully automated
TRI GLIDE™ ULTRA
• Systems designed to suit
Exclusive to the readers of Waikato Farming Lifestyles - be in to win a Harley-Davidson® Cooler Chair*. To go in the draw just mention this advertisment to us when you book your free test ride of any 2018 model at Road and Sport™ Harley-Davidson®. To book your free test ride call Peter or Tristan on 07 958-1411 or book online at RoadandSport.co.nz/test-ride/ A full motorcycle license is required for a test ride.
• Latest in electronic technology and alert systems • Options for wireless communication • Full scale portable demonstration plant available* CALL TODAY FOR YOUR NO OBLIGATION FREE SITE ASSESSMENT AND QUOTATION* (*Conditions may apply dependent on circumstances, demonstration plant dependent on availability)
*Terms and conditions apply
Portable demonstration plant available*
0800 109 202
www.ecoworld.co.nz
381 Te Rapa Road, Hamilton Phone 07 958-1400 RoadandSport.co.nz
WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES December 2017
is the people. People are an integral part of our ecosystem and the two are interdependent — at times we forget we are a part of nature. “Looking at our climate you realise you can’t beat mother nature, so you have to work with her. As farmers we see the pressure put on the farming sector as unsustainable. “New Zealand as a whole has benefitted from farming and we must realise there is no such thing as cheap food which ultimately equates to environmental damage. To remain viable farms have been forced to use urea and high fertiliser rates alongside brought in supplementary feed like PKE. As a consequence we have environmental degradation.” Adrienne says thirty percent of food produced on farm is wasted after leaving the farm gate. By reducing this wastage, in theory, it would be affordable and eliminate the need for high per ha outputs to remain viable. “Restoring our environment is everyone’s responsibility and we will only achieve this by working better together. “Te Whangai creates a safe platform for people who are trapped in the cycle to build their skill strengths as they support each other and their families through the employment process, ultimately providing a better life whilst contributing to environmental restoration creating a legacy for future generations. “We may have started the trust but employees and participants create the opportunities. We set up a model to create an environmental, social and
economic legacy from every dollar invested. If New Zealand is a true ‘clean green’ country our products will have a premium attached to them which will benefit everyone.” Adrienne and Gary believe those struggling can create a positive future if they are given the tools, knowledge and opportunity. “It’s not just about horticulture or agriculture, it is about creating a business hub, where the people come in and run the business and build a sense of belonging and community. By nurturing our people, they build and nurture the business because it is their legacy. “We adopted a Kaupapa Maori approach with multi generations coming in to develop the trust. For youth issues we have to facilitate change for the whole family.” The age range is 15-65 years with kuia, kaumatua and others volunteering with training. “The quality of our products, what we do and the awards Te Whangai has speaks volumes that unemployed people can achieve anything, It is not the lack of skills of the unemployed or their disabilities preventing them from working, but communities inability to harness their skills allowing everyone to contribute to the economy.” says Gary. “We decided to help through our farming and life experiences because if you are not prepared to do something about it, and pilot an alternative then you have no right to criticise and demand action from others.
Adrienne and Gary Dalton established the trust to create opportunities for people in the local community
“The model has proven that together we can work better and achieve quadruple returns for each dollar spent. Today is very much about taking charge of the things that are within our power
to change. It is focusing on achieving our purpose in new and creative ways by combining the multiple sector community skillsets, creating a melting pot of innovation and systemic change.”
New Zealands newest licensed tractor dismantler
SPECIALISING IN LATE MODEL QUALITY USED TRACTOR PARTS
42 Thames Street, Morrinsville p. 07 889 7107 m. 021 070 7081 e. steve@agparts.nz www.agparts.nz
Living the lifestyle, loving the choice…
A unique and welcoming lifestyle village. Our beautiful gardens in a picturesque location provides a natural relaxed lifestyle. Adjacent to cafes, shops, amenities and healthcare facilities - we focus on active residents having fun.
A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY DISCOVERED Open days 11.30am to 2.00pm
Wednesday 17th and Saturday 20th January
Come and experience the difference!
NEW APARTMENT BLOCK DEVELOPMENT COMMENCING SOON!
1 and 2 bedroom floor plans to choose from that are beautifully designed open plan living with North and South facing balconies overlooking the firth of Thames and surrounding hills. Enjoy the luxury of living in an apartment with elegant features providing amenities of shared lounges on 3 levels — ground, second and top floor with balconies. This will join the village as a natural extended lifestyle option with the Community Lodge right next door to use at your own leisure.
82 Richmond St, Thames
7
Ph: 0800 868 5484
richmondvillas.co.nz
8
December 2017
WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES
Shearing for
a cause
by Ann Morgan With the help of the Te Puna Speed Shear Competition, master shearer Digger Balme and his wife Cheryl are in the process of acquiring an assistance dog to help their autistic son Kyle who also has epilepsy, along with developmental delays.
T
he family live on a 200 hectare sheep and beef farm and Kyle enjoys watching the shearing, helping his dad and being amongst the animals. “We have seen an assistance dog in action with a girl at the Lake Karapiro rowing regatta. They certainly change the lives of families with a child with disabilities. They keep an eye on their ‘person’, and we know how well Kyle interacts with animals and are excited for the opportunity,” says Cheryl. “We class him as non verbal but he has his own language and signs to communicate what he needs. Unless we are at a shearing show we are constantly mindful of where he is. Going to the
beach, we constantly panic because he doesn’t have a concept of danger and water is one of his major passions.” A diabetic assistant dog will wake a person up and fetch their medication if need be, whilst an autism dog will stop a child wandering off. For Kyle this means the family will have the freedom to go out in public knowing the dog will keep Kyle calm and contained. “Going to a shearing show is a different story. He is secure and would go everyday if he could. At shearing shows he is intensely immersed and not wanting to move and it is familiar to him. He likes helping Digger in the shearing shed and putting the wool in the wool press.
Julie Hancox founded the Assistance Dogs NZ Trust to help people with disabilities in a practical way
We service… • Septic tanks • Grease traps • Portaloos • Interceptors
Complete Engineering & Hydraulics want to wish you a safe & happy holiday! Our closure* over this time will be from: Thursday 21st December 2017 at 5pm & Reopen 7:30am Monday 8th January 2018 *Available on call via cell: 027 487 6475
Manufacture & Repair of all Hydraulic Rams • Agricultural Power Steering Repairs • Cylinder Honing • On-Site Hydraulic Servicing Over 30 Year Experien s ce
ExperienceSuspension
™
Ferris® Mowers with exclusive suspension technology will give you a noticeable improvement in your mowing productivity. These mowers are built to be the hardest working and smoothest riding. Ferris mowers tackle tough terrain and finish big jobs faster.
S65Z COMFORT SUSPENSION MODEL From $8,499.00 RRP incl. GST
2+2 YEAR LIMITED
WARRANT ARRANT Y*
www.FerrisMowers.com
Distributed in New Zealand by Briggs & Stratton
See your local dealer for a test drive: Huka Motorcycles Ltd
Taupo
And we cover Matamata-Piako & South Waikato Districts.
0800 61 32 32
www.completehydraulics.co.nz PO Box 5686 • 12 Peregrine Place, Frankton, Hamilton PH: 07 847 1514 A/H: 027 487 6475 Fax: 07 847 1521
IS600 SUSPENSION MODEL From $12,999.00 RRP incl. GST
24/7
07 378 5508
Cellmate Batteries
Repackers of Ni-Cd and Ni-Mh cordless power tool batteries etc. DID YOU KNOW That your cordless power tool batteries etc can be re-packed (re-built) right here in the Waikato/Coromandel? In most cases the cost is about 50% of the RRP of new and as we use high quality replacement cells, the batteries are normally of greater capacity than the originals. If you are unable to procure a particular type of battery then the chances are we can make it for you. So don’t throw your old batteries away, let Cellmate bring them back to life by having them re-packed.
Morrinsville
Trevor Mobile 0274 086742
WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES December 2017
“He knows exactly who the different shearers are including Roland Smith and John Kirkpatrick, they interact very well with him. Kyle also knows that you must have moccasins on and dress a certain way to shear and will point it out. Cowsheds, helicopters and shearing shows are his favourite things.” Organisers of the Te Puna Speed Shear, Maree and Craig Morton met Kyle recently and the committee decided the funds raised at the upcoming event will go toward getting his dog. “We helped a young local girl get a dog in the past and her life has totally changed. We are looking forward to seeing the positive outcomes a dog will give Kyle. “The event is very much the city meets the country as people come to see sheep being shorn. Last year we had a lamb shorn in 15.94 seconds — you daren’t look away because you might miss it. “We never know who is coming until the night before but there will be some impressive shearers to be seen. Registrations open at 4.30pm and we normally have 35-45 shearers of all different levels.” Julie and Rick Hancox founded the Assistance Dogs NZ Trust in 2008. “There was nowhere for people with disabilities including autism spectrum disorder, down syndrome, cerebral palsy and diabetes to find a dog with legal public access rights,” says Julie. “After being introduced to families importing dogs from the United States we took on the challenge to cater for the gap. Having dogs available for those in the farming community is very important as well because often people live more isolated and don’t have easy
1.5M please NO MORE BUGS! Kyle Balme helps on the family farm and at present his family are fundraising for Kyle to have his own assistance dog access to support networks.” Julie and Rick formulated their own dog training programme and now service 37 clients across the country with the help of seven staff. “We interview and assess each applicant and train each dog specifically. It can cost more than $20k per dog and there is an eight year waiting list. Once placed we stay in the area for 10 days and ensure the client and dog bond and that they know how to handle it,” says Julie. “Each dog is trained for the environment it will live in and needs to
Kyle interacts with animals well and having a dog will give his family support go on farm and to town, on planes and trains, and to work or school to care for their ‘person’s’ needs — adults also use assistance dogs. We are funded by puppy sponsors as well as the fundraising our clients do.” The Te Puna Speed Shear is on Saturday, January 13 starting at 5.30pm at the Top Shot Bar, Minden Rd, Te Puna. Entry is a gold coin donation.
• New Tyres • Vulcanising • Batteries
• 4 Wheel Alignment • Onsite Repairs • WINZ Quotes
Farmers Card & Q Card Accepted
PH 07 849 5788
718 Te Rapa Rd
• Servicing Options Available • Proudly NZ Owned & Operated • Range of dispensers for all types of use
07 855 9385 • 0800 75 75 78 www.ecomistsystems.com 1030A Heaphy Terrace, Fairfield, Hamilton
PRECISION
SERIES
The indexed rotating clamping system 3 Angle adjustments 12°, 20°, 25° Your knife is always in the same place • High Grade Stainless Steel • Hygienic • Easy Care
Deluxe Precision Kit Pictured
www.terapatyres.co.nz
WE ACCEPT Q CARD 12 Months Interest Free Available* *On in-store purchases $200 and over. Lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply.
• Used in 100s of homes and businesses throughout New Zealand
Stihl Shop
HAMILTON
Open 7 days Mon - Fri 9am-5:30pm Sat 9am - 5pm Sun 10am - 5pm
• Kills Flying & Crawling Insects
The Constant Angle Knife Sharpening System
Quality Secondhand Tyres
BEDPOST HAS A BED FOR EVERYONE!
Automatic Insect Control with Natural Pyrethrins
TYRE CENTRE Hamilton
P: 07 850 5272 BEDPOST TE RAPA 9 MAUI STREET, HAMILTON bedpostterapa@gmail.com
9
See our website for the full range www.scarysharp.co.nz Talk to the manufacturer toll free 0800 175 720
NEED A SHED? HAS GOT YOU COVERED
› ANY SHAPE › ANY SIZE CALL US TODAY
CLARENCE ST 07 838 0716 | TE KUITI 07 878 8149
10
December 2017
WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES
GIRLS CAN DO ANYTHING by Ann Morgan Agribusiness owner Lisa Kendall was the fourth female to ever make it to the grand final of the Young Farmer of the Year competition and she encourages others to enter future competitions.
“I
studied a Diploma in Agriculture and Farm Management at Lincoln university and now manage my own farming business — Nurture Farming Ltd, and I hope to one day develop my own sheep milk brand,” says Lisa. “The Young Farmers competition was really fun and exhausting. There was a bit of pressure and hype because I was a female competitor but the guys were great to compete against, however I did struggle to keep up strength wise. “I had a fantastic week at the final competition and I was stoked for Nigel Woodhead winning the trophy. He is a deserving and inspiring young man.” She had no connection to primary
industry whilst she was growing up and decided in her final year of high school that agriculture was her passion. “I grew up on a lifestyle block and had a couple of horses and a few Ag day pet lambs. I started farming when I left high school and I worked on sheep and beef farms, and in the kiwifruit industry. I then had time overseas and started my business when I came home,” she says. “I love being outdoors and being a part of the biggest industry we have in the country and I enjoy the challenges. “I joined Young Farmers because I saw it as an amazing opportunity to network and further my career options and development. Lisa says her peers encouraged her ‘to have
PROVIDERS OF INDEPENDENT AND PROFESSIONAL FOREST MANAGEMENT SERVICES: • Domestic and export log marketing • Harvesting, log merchandising and value recovery • Harvest planning and forest engineering • Estate planning, modelling and inventory • Forest establishment, development and protection • Emissions Trading Scheme Services CONTACT PO Box 304, Turangi PH: (07) 386 8757 E: nzfm@nzfm.co.nz W: www.nzfm.co.nz
Lisa Kendall encourages other females to enter farming competitions
WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES December 2017
Pay attention!
around road works
Lisa and fellow competitor Daniel Morgan during the fencing competition at the Young Farmer of the Year competition
around at the options, ask questions and talk to other farmers it can be quite easy to decide which area you may like to develop in. “Starting my own business was really challenging but it has opened up a lot of new ideas and pathways for me. “I would like to work my way into farm ownership and develop my own sheep
milk business. One of my lecturers at university started a sheep milk brand producing milk, cheese and ice cream. “I like the idea as it has environmental benefits compared to other types of farming and that helps it be more positive.”
handles brass and
a go’ at the competition and the results proved any fears she had to be completely unfounded. New Zealand Young Farmers CEO Terry Copeland described Lisa as ‘a real role model’ and he hopes that her success will encourage other young women to participate in the FMG Young Farmer of the Year. “I farmed in South Canterbury for a while and enjoyed the wide open spaces, the animals and being able to be by myself. I was a shepherd general and we had sheep, dairy grazing beef, bull beef and a little bit of cash crop. It was a great mixture of everything and full of experiences. I was responsible for day-to-day jobs and managed the property when the owners were away. “I also worked in Waikato dairy farming and calf rearing. I love the industry and believe that if you are a female, you are only limited by your imagination with where you can go.” She says one challenges she faces on the farm is physical strength but with modern technology it isn’t really a problem. “You just have to think harder and smarter and choose the correct tools, rather than just sweat it out. The guys help you if they are around, but the help goes both ways — it is real team effort. At times the guys may need my help — such as when they get a tractor stuck — it is definitely a two way street. “Farming is a great career option, there are so many pathways in the industry. You don’t have to be milking cows at 5am in the morning, there are so many other opportunities. If you look
11
architectural hardware specialists
Suppliers of distinctive door handles and fittings • Consult us for hardware to enhance your home •
Visit our showroom: 12 Somerset Street, Hamilton
p. 07 846 1235 e. sales@handle.co.nz w. handlesandbrass.co.nz
Wireless Gate Alarms
BURGLARIES ARE ON THE RISE – PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY NOW! Do you have people on your property through the night and don’t know until the morning, when you realise your quad bike’s gone!
LOSING DIESEL, CHEMICALS, EVEN HOUSEHOLD ITEMS? THEN THIS IS WHAT YOU NEED NOW…
lert nfra A The I Special XMAS ange unit tr r 25 300mRMALLY $5 L) NO NC I ( 5 $42 W O N
• Wireless – self install –economical to run (1 9v battery –can last a year or more) • Range – 300mtrs • 2yr warranty • Couriered to your door within 2 days (usually)
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR! For further information visit, www.agtronicalerts.co.nz, or call Kim on 0800 22 55 44
12
December 2017
WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES
WATER MATTERS Dairy sector needs shakeup Dairy NZ’s strategic vision for the dairy sector has been criticised by Fish & Game, saying it is a decade late and the industry must act sooner to protect the environment and regain public support. The unveiled strategy’s number one pledge is to protect and nurture the environment for future generations, and to lead efforts to improve the health and swim-ability of rivers and streams. “Public patience has finally run right out and the corporate dairy industry is now trying to catch up and rescue its credibility,” says Fish & Game chief executive Martin Taylor. “Dairy NZ is promising to develop a 50 year blueprint for sustainable land use
THE SHORT DROP LIMITED
by 2025 but it doesn’t go far enough. This is all too little, too late. The dairy industry has had a decade to come up with a blueprint for sustainable farming and land use and now the strategy is to wait another eight years to develop one. “The reality is the present dairying model is unsustainable. Kiwis need action now and aren’t prepared to wait until 2025. “Dairy NZ’s plan highlights the fact the industry is now acutely aware it is losing public trust and its social licence to operate.”
Portable self contained unit No smell, Cost effective, Modular and Practical ...an eco way to deal with poo! Full house hold waste water systems also available swwsnz.co.nz
compostingtoilet.nz Anita Grant • 027 462 1339
Its a dirty job...but someone has to do it! We operate a specialist drain jetting unit for unblocking and cleaning of: ☑ Drains – Sewer/Storm water ☑ Effluent line/Septic tank lines
☑ Farm Culverts and Dairy hydrants/Farm pipes ☑ Tree root removal from drains and pipes
We also operate a Drain camera to locate the source of your drain issues and provide footage if required. Use the locally born and bred company. Reliable and affordable.
Clean water was one of the election’s defining issues as voters expressed their anger about declining water quality and the loss of traditional swimming spots because of pollution. “Dairy NZ needs to be much braver with its strategy and provide better leadership. A good place to start is by accepting a future based on fewer cows, less water use, less nutrient loading, and producing less milk but with more added value. “If they don’t do that, dairy will continue to be unsustainable. Cow numbers have grown astronomically over the last 20 years. Regions like Canterbury and Southland which weren’t traditional dairy areas are now among the biggest, with a combined herd size of over two million animals. “This explosion in intensive farming has had a huge impact on the environment. It takes a thousand litres of water to make one litre of milk and to meet that sort of demand, more and more water is being taken from our waterways and aquifers. “Canterbury is now using two thirds of all New Zealand’s irrigation take. On its own, a single big corporate farm can use the same amount of water as a town does in a year.” The volume of sewage each cow produces also has an impact. “Every day, New Zealand’s more than six million dairy cattle produce the same amount of waste as 90 million people. It is untreated, so that is
Martin Taylor, Fish & Game chief executive
another body blow for the environment. “If corporate dairying is to regain public support, it needs to admit its present operating model is unsustainable. The sector has to stop resisting the need to reduce environmental impacts and commit to hard, measurable targets in the next year. “Corporate dairying can only achieve this by working with environment groups, communities and the government to put these in place.”
Effluent Pumping Services Spreading of all Effluent Ponds
Phone 0800 938 538 | Mob 0274 915 386 www.assassin.co.nz
0800 111 690 • 027 217 6779
Dam Weed Guard Delivering Life’s Vital Source
Residential and Commercial Water Delivery, Water Tank Cleaning, Swimming Pool Filling
0800 2 DRINK (37465)
admin@waikatowater.co.nz |www.waikatowater.co.nz
Protect Your Pump From Protect Your Pump From Costly Repairs Costly Repairs Keep Your Water The Best It Can Keep Your Water The Best It Can Be
• Are you having trouble with rubbish Dam Weed Guard getting into your farm pump?
Protect Your Pump From Costly Repairs Keep Your Water The Best It
• Weeds building up on your water filter? • Algae blocking your water lines?
Chlorine Tablet & Dispenser • Prevents most algae build up & blockages
Dam Weed Guard • Floats in your water supply (dam/creek) Contact: Peter and Sheryl Tonkin • Protects your filterP: from & floating debris 09 weeds 4317276 • M: 027 353 7274 • www.damweedguard.co.nz Stainless Steel Screen • Filters your water supply
Screen Fi Filter lter with Stainless Steel mesh
Contact: Peter and Sheryl Tonkin Contact: Peter and Sheryl Tonkin P: 09 4317276 •P:M: 353 7274 • www.damweedguard.co.nz 09027 4317276 • M: 027 353 7274 • www.damweedguard.co.nz
WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES December 2017
13
W AT E R M AT T E R S
Monitoring water usage The best way to monitor the amount of water you use on your property is with a water meter. They can detect small leaks and losses and are an effective way to track seasonal and annual consumption. Installing a water meter allows you to record actual water use and identify areas where water can be used more efficiently. There are two main types of water meter available to monitor shed water use; mechanical and electromagnetic. The cost and accuracy varies between these meters. In general mechanical water meters are the cheapest up front however need earlier replacement and have poorer accuracy than the electromagnetic. A basic water meter is a valuable feature of any farm striving for sustainable water use and will help detect where water can be saved and identify water efficiency options. Meters can have an alert system that informs you if water is flowing when it shouldn’t be — allowing quick detection of leaks and speedy repairs. It is good to assign a specific person to monitor the alert devices. These systems can be set up using various methods including a pressure gauge on a line feeding water to the farm. Registering lower than normal is a likely sign water is being lost somewhere in the system. A storage tank and pump provide water down the farm and a pilot light on the pump can serve as a visual alert that the pump is on. If the pump
is running when it shouldn’t it is likely there is a leak and you should look for the cause. A standard spotlight works, but an LED type — visible from a distance and even in daylight — is worth the small extra cost. The ‘click, click’ sound of an in-line dispensing system can alert you that water is running whilst unexpected fluctuations or records that never return to zero on meter readings may also indicate leaks. The right number and placement of isolation valves can ease the task of finding and fixing leaks and shutting off water in an area to assist repair. They can also be used to turn off water to areas not always in use such as the calf shed. Mark isolation valves on your farm map so they can be found if the system needs to be modified. Place the meter in a spot that is convenient to read or attach a data logger, or telemetry unit, which will send the data straight to a computer system and consider how the meter’s location will affect the data collected. Read meters at the same time and day on a regular schedule, and at least once a month read the meter late in the evening and again early the next morning to check for small or unnoticed leaks.
Readings can be recorded on DairyNZ’s Tracking Water Use form. Check with your regional council or
meter supplier if you have any questions about which meter to choose and how to correctly install it.
Rotorua New Zealand
Explore the World’s youngest Geothermal System
Specialists In Rural Water Filtration & Treatment Filtration Options for Lifestyle & Farm Water Supplies.
Discover amazing hot springs and lakes set among beautiful and peaceful New Zealand forest.
• Remove E.coli • Address Turbidity • Bore & Rainwater Treatment
Walking tours and boat cruises
• Ultraviolet Sterilisation • Installation & Servicing • Site Visits
Open 8.30 Every Day
Filtration systems to meet Fonterra Water Testing Standards
Mysterious Inferno Crater, the world’s largest geyser
www.purewater.co.nz | info@purewater.co.nz 07 834 0696 | 431a Te Rapa Rd, HAMILTON
Turn left 14km south of Rotorua off SH5, drive 6km along to our entrance, 587 Waimangu Rd www.waimangu.co.nz E: nature@waimangu.co.nz Phone 07 3666 137
LABARONNE SUPERIOR FISHING TECHNOLOGY
EFFLUENT & WATER STORAGE SOLUTIONS Bladder Tank sizes from 20 m3 to 2000 m3
Predator Winch
Solidly built, strong performance, highly controllable
Flexible Tank Engineering
Auto Nav www.kontiki.co.nz SIMPLE • SAFE • SELF SUPPORTING • COST EFFECTIVE Anton Meier
M 021 289 5999 P 07 829 5940 E anton@flexitanksnz.com
A 251 Lee Martin Rd, RD1, Cambridge, NZ W www.flexitanksnz.com
Auto Nav Unique 2-Second Point & Go Guidance System
Find your local dealer
0800 347 483
Now available in 5 eye-popping colours
COME VIEW OUR RANGE AT OUR NEW WEBSITE: WWW.KONTIKI.CO.NZ
14
December 2017
WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES
LIVESTOCK
Record lambing percentages A record lambing percentage underpins a lift in lamb numbers, according to Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Lamb Crop 2017 report. Research by B+LNZ’s Economic Service estimates the number of lambs tailed in spring 2017 was 23.7 million head, up 1.9 per cent (436,000 head) on the previous spring. The average ewe lambing percentage for 2017 was 127.2, up 4.4 percentage points on last year and up 6.4 percentage points on the 10-year average (2008-09 to 2017-18) of 120.8 per cent. This means 127 lambs were born per hundred ewes compared with an average of 121 over the last 10 years. For spring 2017, a one percentage point change in the New Zealand ewe lambing percentage is equivalent to 178,000 lambs. Andrew Burtt, chief economist of B+LNZ’s Economic Service, says the record lambing percentage and more lambs from hoggets offset fewer breeding ewes.
“The report provides further evidence of sheep and beef farmers doing more with less. “North Island lamb numbers were a major factor behind the overall lift in the New Zealand lamb crop with growth of 4.9 per cent (551,000 head) to 11.7 million head. The average ewe lambing percentage for 2017 was 128.0, up 8.6 percentage points on last year. “This was a record high, and was due to good climatic conditions and ewe condition at both mating and lambing for most regions. “After autumn and winter, conditions were generally good but wet, lamb growth rates were lower than normal due to a lack of sunshine, cool damp weather and more lambs. “This has had a negative impact on lamb growth. On a positive note, there were no adverse weather events during
Andrew Burtt, chief economist of B+LNZ’s Economic Service
lambing.” In the East Coast and TaranakiManawatu, bearings and subsequent losses negatively impacted the lambing result. According to the survey, the number of breeding ewes declined 1.9 per cent to 17.8 million at July 1, 2017. “The most significant decrease was in Taranaki-Manawatu (-3.6 per cent) in response to strong mutton prices and culling of old ewes to take advantage of strong prices.” The number of lambs available for export processing in 2017-18 at 19.27
million head is similar to last season’s 19.25 million head (+0.1 per cent). The tonnage of lamb produced is expected to decrease slightly (-0.2 per cent) to a lower average carcass weight, which offsets an increase in total number processed. B+LNZ Economic Service’s Lamb Crop survey is drawn from its Sheep and Beef Farm Survey, which covers a statistically representative sample of over 500 commercial sheep and beef farms.
SIS BALL COCK VALVE ™
Price $99.50+GST EACH Freight free anywhere in NZ
Convenient Superfast Trench Digging
Low Cost
• Buy 10 receive 12 and 2x service kits • 3 models available – all the one price • Nearly indestructible • Only NZ Manufacturer providing lifetime guarantee on the body of the ballcock
Terrasaw Industries Ltd
Phone 09 431 6400 Email: enquiries@terrasaw.co.nz www.terrasaw.co.nz “Terrasaw” is a registered trademark of Terrasaw Industries
Fully Monitored Grazing PGG Wrightson Livestock Grazing partners with stock owners and graziers to provide a fully monitored grazing solution for optimal performance and target achievement of livestock. Our Regional Grazing Managers use market leading technology, allowing high speed weighing, monitoring and drafting for feeding. Tailored assistance and support is provided for feed planning, budgeting and administering the Animal Health Plan.
For more information, contact our Regional Grazing Managers on 0800 300 345 www.pggwrightson.co.nz/grazing
www.sisballcock.co.nz | 0800 175 720 Only available direct from manufacturer
WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES December 2017
15
DAIRY
Prompting quad bike ban Recent quad bike accidents causing serious injuries and expensive helicopter evacuations have reinforced the need for a prohibition on the use of quad bikes by primary industries services company OSPRI. From the first day of 2018, OSPRI contractors engaged in TBfree programme pest control and animal health testing work will be encouraged to opt for less dangerous forms of transport, as they will not be permitted to operate or ride on a quad bike. “We want our workers to go home safely every day, and our focus is on reducing the potential for death or serious injury,” says OSPRI chief executive Michelle Edge. “Quad bikes were involved in more than a quarter of all work-related farm deaths in recent years, with five quad deaths in 2016. “Earlier this year an OSPRI worker was killed in a quad bike accident while working on a farm. For us, that’s one too many. “We had a long-term harmreduction strategy in place that was recognised as industry-leading, and our measures indicated that quad-bike incidents and fleet had been steadily decreasing. Yet we were not able to change the fundamental design of the quad, monitor its use, or provide adequate protection for our workers following an accidental loss of control.” In its work to eradicate TB from New Zealand’s wildlife and farmed animals,
OSPRI manages possum control and pest management work over 5.5 million hectares of New Zealand each year, undertakes almost 3.5 million TB tests and has eradicated TB from possums across 1.83 million hectares since 2011. “Each year our people spend more than 300,000 hours in the field, often in remote and difficult terrain. Getting that work done safely and efficiently is important to us, so providing for an informed decision was a major undertaking,” says OSPRI Health and Safety lead James Knapp. “We recognise the usefulness of quad bikes, and understand the risk involved in change with any vehicle, but opting for safer alternatives to quad bikes was the only way to minimise this risk.” OSPRI engaged service providers, reviewed all available research and worked in a consultative process to introduce these changes and enable time for those affected to adapt. The company helps protect and enhance the reputation of New Zealand’s primary industries. It manages the NAIT and TBfree programmes. For more information visit ospri.co.nz
DRIVE PHONE FREE!
Bulk Fertiliser Spreading Mini Spreader Available Book your upcoming spreading requirements now
For all your lime and fertiliser needs Obligation Free Quotes Mob 027 487 8981 or Mob 027 220 2010
*Steve 07 827 3164 *Grant 07 827 2199
RD 4 Cambridge Michelle Edge, OSPRI chief executive
Pay attention! SCHWITZER
around road works C O N T R A C T I N G
Small Wrapped Conventional Bales Silage | Haylage | Hay Operating Waikato wide, also making round bales. GRASS WANTED! Mobile: 029 8235074 | Home: 07 823 5074
www.schwitzercontracting.co.nz
100 IT’S NOT A TARGET
BAY MULCHING O’NEILL ENGINEERING LTD
REAL STEEL FARM BUILDINGS Purpose built, self propelled mulching and stumpchipping machines. Also have Morbark self propelled and feeding 20" tree chipper. Circular Storage Buildings
Gable Buildings
Bunker Covers
We specialise in land clearing, shelterbelt removal, forestry, powerline clearing, subdivision and create animal bedding.
Farm Buildings & Repairs
Transform forestry blocks to productive farmland. NZ wide.
73 Thames Street, Morrinsville • Phone 07 889 6314 Mobile 021 775 310 info@oneillengineering.co.nz
Contact Anton 027 497 4061 W: www.baymulching.co.nz E: baymulchingltd@xtra.co.nz
16
December 2017 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES
ADVERTORIAL
The truth about plants and nitrogen by John K Morris — CEO of Agrissentials
University of Oregon, Dr J. Fox has found that communication links between plants and nitrogen fixing bacteria are damaged when synthetic nitrogen is used. This leads to less nitrogen fixed naturally, increasing reliance on artificial synthetic urea. The more you use synthetic nitrogen, the more you will need to use synthetic nitrogen. In essence, agro-chemicals are cutting the communication lines between the ‘host plant’ and the ‘soil biology’ — not a good idea; it is essential that plants and biology communicate with each other, that is how the natural system works. Artificial nitrogen sales are increasing every year, but also increasing is the erosion of topsoil and pollution of both farm and environment with synthetic nutrient leaching. It’s amazing that the farmers accept carbon dioxide straight out of the atmosphere for free, hydrogen for free, and oxygen for free, but line up to purchase
artificial nitrogen for big money. It doesn’t make sense. Over every hectare on the planet it is estimated that there is approximately 30,000 tonnes of atmospheric nitrogen, completely natural, environmentally sustainable, which is fixed by both plants and micro-organisms and stored within the organic matter of the soil, ready for plant uptake on request. Why wouldn’t you use this ultimate, free serving system? It’s a money saver. Atoms — it is an astounding notion to consider that atoms are mostly empty
WE SPECIALISE IN SMALL BLOCK FARMS TOO! SERVICES INCLUDE: • • • •
Contouring • Siteworks Section Clearing • Driveways Carparks • Tree & Hedge Removal Farm Drainage & Races • Subdivisions
At DW Earthmoving we let our machines do the talking! With many years of industry experience, we provide a wide range of earth moving services at a competitive price along with top quality workmanship.
DAVE: 027 477 9662 SHANE: 021 350 028
space and that the solidity we experience around us is an illusion. When two objects come together — like billiard balls — they don’t actually strike each other, rather the negatively charged fields of the two balls repel each other. When you sit in a chair, you are not actually sitting there, but levitating above it at one angstrom (100 millionth of a centimetre) — your electrons and the chair’s electrons are implacably opposed to any closer intimacy. All living matter is cellular — life cannot arise spontaneously, but must come from existing cells (at Agrissentials we see the future of fertilisers being targeted at the cellular level of plant life, then passing on through to the cellular level of animals and people). Feed the cells the right frequency and they will do the rest of the job. To make a ‘human being’, the first cell splits to become two, and then two becomes four and after 47 doublings, you have 10,000 trillion cells in your body and are ready to spring forth as a human being. Every one of those cells knows exactly what to do to preserve and nurture you. Each cell carries a copy of the complete genetic code — the instruction manual code for your body — so, it knows how to do not only its job, but every other job in the body too. Every cell in nature is a thing of wonder. Even the simplest cells are far beyond the limits of human ingenuity. When you eat, they extract the nutrients, distribute the energy and carry off the waste — when you drink alcohol, they all get pissed as parrots and fall over.
A cell is like a refinery in that it is devoted to natural mineral activity on a grand scale filled with interactions that appear confused and random, but clearly have some system to them. There is activity everywhere and a ceaseless thrum of electricity. You may not feel electrical, but you are. The food we eat and the oxygen we breathe are combined in the cells into electricity. Compare your genes with any other human beings and on average they will all be about 99.9% the same. That makes us a species. The tiny difference in that remaining 0.1% is what endows us with our own individuality. Here at Agrissentials we are working as close as possible to Mother Nature, focussing fully on the soil, with our multimineral, microbial rich fertilisers, bringing health and vitality to the soil, the plants, the animals and the people. Through the micro-organisms and the worms we are recycling and regenerating topsoil, keeping all productive units in top health and pumping. As the health of the productive unit increases, so will the health of the surrounding environment. Get it right with Agrissentials Best on Earth Organx™ fertilisers. Visit us at www.agrissentials.com or give us a call on 0800 THE KEY for a FREE INFO PACK, that’s 0800 843 539 to find out how we can partner with you to find a better way of farming. Alternatively you can contact your best on earth fertiliser representative Chris Storm (North & Central Waikato) on 021 738 609 or Ken Pitts (South/West Waikato) 027 502 3036 to grab your special deal today.
Best on earth Organx™ fertilisers
Not all grass is created equal!
It may grow super fast and look super lush,
but does your grass have the guts to give your herd what they need?
Give us a call today or visit our website to learn more about our mineral and microbial rich fertilisers that will get the guts back in your grass! www.agrissentials.com 0800 843 539
WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES December 2017
17
RURAL WHEELS
Return of the lion by Andy Bryenton
There are few icons of the antipodean roads as easily recognized as the Holden Commodore. Successive generations have been branded in to the Kiwi and Aussie psyche — well, if you’re not a Ford fan — and have carried most of us to everything from workdays to holidays, weddings to funerals. Now the icon faces a step change that’s critical to the success of the re-positioned Holden brand. From a downunder manufacturer to an integrated sales brand, Holden still represents the whole formidable global reach and might of the General Motors corporation. But it’s important psychologically that the next generation Commodore carries the torch, and the badge, like its ancestors. That’s why, while the latest offering from Holden is in fact largely an Opel Insignia, made by GM’s German engineers, it has also been put through 100,000 kilometers and more of tests and trials in the big red land over the ditch. Packed with technology and promising a smooth, refined ride, the 2018 Commodore will inevitably be seen by some as a watering down of the brash, V8 powered brute which Kiwis have
Pay attention!
come to love. But talk emissions, fuel prices, economy and a quieter, more relaxing drive, and the scales tip into balance. Holden may have ruled out an eight-pot mill or even a turbo-charged six for the 2018 Commodore, but a top of the range model has been thrown into the mix, with a V6 delivering 230 kilowatts — that’s 308 horsepower. This same model will boast all wheel drive and a nine speed automatic box for smooth power delivery. Interestingly, the ‘Twinster’ all wheel drive system has been featured here before — under Ford’s spicy Focus RS. Spy photos have broken cover of a station wagon in the range, which will please those who are not swayed by the SUV argument. Overall, the 2018 Commodore looks the business, with sleek lines and an aggressive stance — all the more reason, opine the octane-heads, that it
deserves a little love from, say, GM’s Corvette engine works in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Many models also switch to a front-drive platform, anathema to those greedy for tyresmoke. Still, it’s
a sign of changing times. A refined Holden Commodore, crafted in Europe and garnished with technology and silky silence rather than hellfire and brimstone, may be a far better thing than the die-hards can imagine.
NEW YEARS SPECIAL! 2017 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport VRX ONE ONLY Save $12,000
$54,990 Otorohanga Mitsubishi
around road works
1 Maniapoto Street, Otorohanga • P 07 873 8169 www.otorohangamitsubishi.co.nz • Rob Blackett m: 021 969 709
QUALITY USED STOCK 2015 POLARIS RZR 570 Like new. Just 66km. ROPS approved cage, 2 seats with belts, cargo tray, only 50” wide, fuel efficient, auto EFI, On-Demand True AWD/2WD.
2015 POLARIS RANGER 570 Awesome cond for kms, one own/op, new tyres, 17950kms, tilt tray, full downhill engine braking, AWD/2wd & Turf mode, power steering, ROPS.
$15,995
$9995
2005 SUZUKI LTA700X
Bull bars, good tyres, 5 speed manual, 2wd/4wd optional, EFI watercooled 4 stroke powerplant with manual gearchange / auto clutch, 23295kms & 2566hrs.
12800kms, great cond, fuel inj, independent susp, press button 2WD/4WD & Difflocks, new tyres, dog mat, mudflaps
$6495
2007 SUZUKI DRZ125 Big Wheel, Fly alloy bars, new Bridgestone X30r rear tyre, Full Pro Circuit T4 Exhaust, good chain & sprockets, 4-stroke 125cc, air-cooled, 5-speed manual.
$2750
2009 HONDA CRF70 Excellent cond, comes with spare new plastics, 3 speed with auto clutch, 4 stroke engine, keyed ignition, new Pirelli front & rear tyres, wet weight: 63kg.
$2195
2007 HONDA TRX420
$3995 2014 SUZUKI RMX450
All prices include GST 2013 JOHN DEERE XTC855D X 4 Good cond,
1 own/op drystock farm, 29,273kms, Yanmar 855cc 3 cyl, liquid cooled diesel engine, tilt deck, CVT Trans, On Demand AWD, descent control.
$12,995
2006 SUZUKI LTZ400 570 One owner, nurf bars, alloy handlebars, barkbusters, big gun full exhaust, new chain & sprockets, liquid cooled, electric start 4 stroke, 5 spd manual clutch with reverse.
$4500
2015 GAS GAS EC125R
One meticulous owner, 88hrs, Mark Patterson revalved susp, good tyres, Zeta hand guards, Oring chain, aluminium radiator guards, Renthal fat bars, Tag bar risers.
Mint cond, 1 owner done 1 trail ride all other use has been on farm, 2 stroke, 6 spd trans, Marzocchi front forks.
$6995
$6495
2017 GAS GAS EC300R
2015 KAWASAKI KLX450
$9995
$6500
As New, just 798kms. Enduro race-ready electric start 2 stroke! Plus kickstart, V-Force 4 reed valve, Regina chain, oversized foot pegs, Galfer Wave disc
PRICE REDUCED
Excellent cond, just 48 Hrs / 1320KMS, 5 speed, front forks just serviced new oil & seals, electric & kick start, aluminium bash plate, handguards, with various spares.
All used stock is fully serviced. Buy with confidence from a LMVD
CUSTOMISED, DETAILED QUOTES TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS. Finance available on all stock subject to credit approval. Application and administration fees payable and T & Cs apply.
TAUMARUNUI: 07 895 7994 | OTOROHANGA: 07 873 8196 A/Hrs Joel Rees 027 279 5425 or Wayne Wirihana 021 285 1635
Check out these and more bikes on our website www.biketorque.co.nz
18
December 2017
WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES
RURAL WHEELS
Oi!
DON’T TXT & DRIVE
BATTERY ADDITIVE
Battery Revitalizer & Conditioner A lot of people in our Recharge Conditioning Program are getting 8 to 10 years out of their batteries. Just dose them when you buy them, treat them every two years and give them an overnight charge twice a year between treatments and eliminate the sulphation problem, A car battery can be treated for around $5. Yes you can treat sealed batteries, simply drill into each cell, top up with water, treat, charge and reseal with silicone, sika-flex or a plastic bung.
0800 36 33 36 – www.recharge.net.nz
Transformation games
by Andy Bryenton
When they first said perhaps a decade ago, that the era of the four door sedan was drawing to a close, people laughed. As the hot hatch began to be slowly replaced with the micro-crossover SUV, disbelief was the order of the day. As in fashion and art, the auto world carries a sea-anchor of memories and pre-suppositions. But the hour is at hand. Proof that the landscape has definitely shifted. No, we don’t mean the end of production for the Commodore and Falcon. Take a look at the current range from Nissan. The people who brought us the Maxima, that consummate big sedan, the Pulsar, available as a hot hatch with a bonnet scoop that could swallow medium sized animals, and ancestrally machines like the Sunny and the 120Y have a very different offering on the forecourt for 2017. It breaks down like this. Perhaps the single best value for money supercar-thrashing sports machine on four wheels — the GT-R. Under that, a coupe which builds on a history stretching back to the Fairlady Z, and which would make some folks second-guess a Porsche. And afterwards — it’s sports utilities all the way through. There’s some very good ones, at that. The Juke may not be everyone’s stylistic
cup of tea, but the crossover market is all about pop art style. Then we have the best-selling Qashqai, the X-Trail, the Pathfinder and the big Patrol as daddy of the family. The Navara ute finishes off a lineup that has no hot hatch, no sedan — and feels like there’s really nothing missing. The shift has happened, we’re in the 21st century, and the car DNA has split. Understanding this has allowed Nissan to create a range that caters to modern tastes with a spectrum of closely gradated SUVs for every niche, and left their car division free to fly into new realms of lateral Gs and tyre
smoke wizardry. Yes, the 370Z is good fun. In New Zealand it comes in only one option, but that’s because you don’t put tomato sauce on a perfectly crafted slice of sushi. But the GT-R is better than good. It’s transcended the hooligan past of the Skyline which went before it, in the same way Dodge’s Viper transcended their range of huge pickup trucks. If a clean split between the SUVs the public desire and the car as kinetic art and science is needed to make this happen, let it happen. In this case, the results have certainly justified the means and the method.
D-MAX LS MANUAL 2WD
$29,990 + GST + ORC
DRIVE AWAY
Conditions Apply
GC1705 Tractor 22.5 hp
KMF6
21
Compact Tractor, Big Performance 3-Cylinder Diesel Engine Hydrostatic 2 Range Transmission Picture includes optional loader Options Include: Mower Deck , Backhoe and Loader
$
12,900
+GST
John Metcalfe 07 843 7953 Ben Peters 027 243 1750
Neil Lawrence 027 654 0913 Keith Stewart 07 854 4048
www.waikatotractors.co.nz Kahikatea Drive, Hamilton Phone 07 843 7237 Prices available while stocks last. 3.99% Finance available on specific models, to approved AGCO Finance customers with 30% minimum deposit. GST paid in 3rd month, and balance paid over 36 months. Subject to normal lending criteria. Conditions Apply. OFFER ENDS 31 DECEMBER 2017.
1 The Boulevard, Te Rapa, Hamilton WWW.WINGER.CO.NZ (07) 838 1249
WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES December 2017
19
QUAD BIKE SAFETY
The Carpenters Daughter
Wear a helmet. OPEN 7 DAYS, 10am–5pm 17 Main Road, TIRAU | PH: 07 883 1472 www.tcd.co.nz
A helmet is a must while riding a quad bike around the farm.
Waikato CLASSIFIEDS
Waikato
FARMING Lifestyles
The team at Waikato Farming Lifestyles would like to thank everyone for their continued support and wish you all a safe & happy holidays.
Best wishes.
Reach 30,000 Rural Homes • Phone 0800 466 793 For Sale
Work Wanted
CONCRETE POST specialist, Posts, Angles, Strainers, Stays, Foot, Buy Direct. Phone 0800 876 844 (0800 TROUGH). CONCRETE TANK Specialist. Water, effluent, septic tanks. Price quoted, delivered to site. Buy Direct. Phone 0800 876 844 (0800 TROUGH).
Financial BANK SAID NO? We specialise in Farm Finance, working capital and debt consolidation. Also welcome applications from property developers, builder’s and first home buyers. Call 0800 888 449 or email bill@gfbl.co.nz.
Animal Health Products HIGH CELL Count? Apple Cider Vinegar, Garlic & Manuka Honey 20L $49.95, 200L $450 or 1000L $2,000 +GST with free delivery. Black Type Minerals Ltd. Phone 021 185 1501. blacktypeminerals.co.nz.
STANDING GRASS WANTED Top $$$ paid Phone 021 074 7055 HAVE A SAFE & MERRY XMAS
Waikato Rural Marketplace Farm Watch Services
Central Motors
8272 07 883
29 EMPIRE STREET, Phone : 07 827 0004 CAMBRIDGE Email : tattoo@cambridgebodyart.co.nz /CAMBRIDGEBODYARTNZ
@CAMBRIDGEBODYARTNZ
Waikato’s Gas Guys QUICK TURN AROUND! Fill and Test Welding Bottles Oxygen • Argon • Argon Mixes • CO
2
Fill and Test LPG Cylinders 134 Grey St, Hamilton East • 07 856 7022
WE SPECIALISE IN SANDBLASTING Farm Machinery, Truck Chassis & Much, Much More!
34 Kohunui St, Ngatea 3503 • Phone: 07 867 7561 Email: ngateapanelbeaters@gmail.com www.ngateapanelbeaters.co.nz
Deer farms, lifestyle & drystock blocks, orchards. Garden & lawn maintenance, livestock management.
• GENERAL REPAIRS • WOF SERVICE • TUNE-UPS • EFI REPAIRS • LUBES SCAN TOOL DIAGNOSIS • AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE & REPAIRS Manager Peter Cranch: 027 442 0219 Phone: (07) 883 8272 Fax: (07) 883 8165 Email: putarurutowing@xtra.co.nz
Security for your home, farm, pets, livestock & assests.
Labour unit, harvest time etc. Long & short term, North Island wide. Self-contained motorhome (7m).
ROSS EADE 027 471 9492 ross.eade@kinect.co.nz
7-9 Neal St, Putaruru
GORDYS FLYTRAP FITTING®
Anything… Anywhere… Anytime!
$20 plus p&p
• Long and wide loads • Machinery movers • On site work • Water tank shifts
Available from PGG Wrightson & Farmlands. UV Protected Polycarbonate. Fits on any container with a flat surface. Instructions supplied with the fitting. GORDYS FLYTRAP FITTING 21 LITCHFIELD ST, BLENHEIM
Email: elaine.gordon@xtra.co.nz www.gordys-flytrap-fitting.com Patented in New Zealand/Australia
• Container and shed lifts • Semi, flatdecks, trailers • Pallet Deliveries
For a FREE QUOTE phone us on 07 847 2074
WAIKATO TRACTORS LTD • John Metcalfe 07 843 7953 • Ted Murphy 07 889 1505 • Keith Stewart 07 854 4048 • Glenn Greay 027 243 1750 • Neil Lawrence 027 654 0913 www.waikatotractors.co.nz Kahikatea Drive, Hamilton
20
December 2017 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES
YOUR LOCAL HELICOPTER SERVICE
AERIAL WORK UREA ON MAIZE, GORSE AND SCRUB SPRAYING, FERTILSER APPLICATION both solid & liquid
Our customers come first
0508 435 424