The announcement this month by Transport Minister Simeon Brown that the coalition government is committing almost $4 billion over the next three years to pothole repair and prevention is welcome news.
Our roads have been neglected for far too long and getting them fixed is something the National Party promised in its campaign, and we are delivering on that promise. I wonder if you picked up on a couple of juicy little morsels in that announcement.
The first is $1.9 billion of that fund is earmarked for local roads. That is really good news for us in the rural sector. It would be fair to state that our state highways are in a bad way, but our rural roads are worse, and it is great to see that simple fact has been recognised and not forgotten. I have said such to Simeon.
The second factor is that word ‘prevention’.
What that tells me is we have another example of a government that is looking to the future. This is at a time when we
have enough on our plate trying to correct so much that has been neglected and corroded in the recent past.
The roads are a good example of that. Not only is the fund committing to repair the existing potholes plaguing our roads (and there were an estimated 62,000 of them last year alone), but a hefty amount of that $4 billion fund is earmarked for improving our roads, their structure and foundation, to prevent potholes.
Again, I make the point: this is a government that plans for the future, not one that, literally in the case of roads, patches over the present and the past. We also had the good news this month that the Waikato region will receive more than $214 million for roading projects. That’s a 42% increase, which is clearly good for Taranaki-King Country.
Regional Infrastructure Fund starts here
by Andy Bryenton
Last month’s budget saw the announcement of the new Regional Infrastructure Fund, and while it’s been called by some the ‘spiritual successor’ to the Provincial Growth Fund, its focus is more precise.
Helmed by outspoken regional development proponent Shane Jones, the new RIF is designed to build resilience infrastructure, enhancing a region’s ability to weather storms and disasters. It’s also designed to fund enabling infrastructure, the kind of big projects that unlock tangible economic benefits with wide knock-on effects.
“The coalition government is committed to building a stronger, more productive economy, and this fund will help support our regional economies to grow,” said Mr Jones.
“Building infrastructure for growth and resilience is one of the government’s five pillars for rebuilding the economy. This fund, $1.2 billion over three years, will invest in new and existing infrastructure across regional New Zealand.”
In good news for Waikato, several projects have been pinpointed for possible RIF assistance in the region. Shane Jones says that local authorities have identified areas of possible weakness in the recently published Before The Deluge 2.0 report, which is within the scope of the RIF’s criteria.
Taking a look at this report, compiled in the aftermath of 2023’s wild weather disasters, observers may note six Waikatobased flood mitigation projects, totalling more than $32 million. These include stopbank works and flood gates for the lower Waikato River, anti-flooding works in the Thames Valley and in the Waipa and west coast river areas, stopbanks in Ngātea, Kirikiri and Pipiroa, and
Shane Jones has unveiled a new infrastructure fund referencing post-cyclone works as a starting point for future resilience-building restructuring of ponding zones on the Piako River.
“Extreme weather events such as Cyclones Hale and Gabrielle last year highlighted the critical need for this infrastructure,” said Mr Jones. “Stopbanks are often the only thing standing between a deluge and economic devastation for a region. While we see councils as responsible for flood protection, this fund
will provide valuable one-off support to address critical gaps across the country.”
Not everybody was enthusiastic when the fund was announced, with calls for more to be done to redress the historic underfunding of infrastructure in the regions.
“$1 billion is a drop in the bucket for a country that needs to spend $30 billion over the next 30 years to overcome our infrastructure deficit,” said Infrastructure New Zealand’s Nick Leggett.
More local projects could be funded by the RIF. Further information on the assessment criteria for the fund will be announced at the end of June, with applications opening on July 1.
“Aunited vision for the farm and good infrastructure are two of our family strengths,” says Teagan.
“Being fifth generation is something I’m very proud of. I’m fortunate that the farm is well set up. I have a good cowshed and stand-off for our area soil type, and good facilities to make the job as easy as possible and run the farm the best I can.
“I went off to Massey University and gained a major in equine and a Bachelor in Agriscience with a major in equine. I‘ve always loved the outdoors and animals and thought I’d have a career involving horses. The majority of our core papers was
agriculture, and I spent time on farms and started learning what is involved in farming.”
Teagan discovered farming ticked a lot of boxes for a career choice.
“Being an ambitious and goalmotivated person, I realised I would achieve more of my goals farming rather than being involved with horses. I came home more involved in the ag sector and did 12 months at a Farmlands Store.
EXCITED ABOUT DAIRY
BY ANN VAN ENGELEN
“I was happy being outside with animals and doing the work. In 2016, a position as farm assistant came up on our farm where I could fit in with the team and I took it. It certainly wasn’t handed to me, I had to work for my position, building my way up and learned a lot in the process. I’m now in my third year of managing.”
Phone/Fax: 0800 129 073
Freight options available | Farm direct info@taylormadegates.co.nz www.taylormadegates.co.nz
Teagan was named the NZ Dairy Industry 2024 Auckland/Hauraki Dairy Manager of the Year and also received the DeLaval Livestock Management Award, Fonterra Dairy Management Award, Pioneer Pasture and Feed Management Award, Brandt People and Leadership Award along with the CowManager
Personal Planning and Financial Management Award.
“I believe the dairy industry could do better with accepting females into high management roles. Females often have to work twice as hard to prove we’re capable. I hope by entering the awards, I can be a positive influence on other women coming through the industry because dairy farming is a sustainable career.
414 7370 info@karakatreetaupo.co.nz
Teagan Gray is the fifth generation of the Gray family to manage the family farm in Thames for her parents Neil and Glenda on their 160-hectare property, milking 478 cows.
Teagan won the Dairy Manager of the Year 2024 in the Auckland/Hauraki section of the Dairy Industry Awards
her parents’
“It’s exciting to be part of an industry that’s leading the world in producing dairy products that provide valuable nutrition to people worldwide. It starts with us looking after our cows and land the best we can and running a sustainable business that makes the most of the resources we have.
“We are efficient milk producers and I believe if we keep adapting, New Zealand will maintain its status as world leaders in dairy farming.
“I was fortunate to grow up watching my grandparents’ farm. They aren’t with us anymore, but I wish they were still around to see how we’re doing. Later in
life, poppa potted around the farm doing what he wanted, where he wanted and I don’t think my dad will be any different.
“With me managing and making the daily decisions, dad has more freedom but it’s still his farm to enjoy. I tell him he’s not allowed to retire as he knows so much.
“I am passionate about work-life balance and love travelling. Last summer, I went to Mongolia and rode animals in the Gobi Desert. It was a life-changing experience. You learn so much about yourself in those conditions.
“Mongolians don’t have farms. We have a lot of skills we can share with them, as
life is completely different there. Herding families are reliant on their animals to live and make money, and the love and respect they have for their animals is outstanding. It blew me away.
“The herds wander, but the herders do keep them within limits to their homes.
A lot of animals are brought home and yarded overnight, especially goats, where wolves and wild dogs can be a big
problem. Herders will typically move with the seasons to different locations and will often stay with large mobs during the day before returning home.
“Being in their culture was amazing. I’m heading back in July, and am excited to see a lot more of what they do. We will ride for 23 days on horses, camels and yaks and finish up north on the border with the reindeer people.”
Teagan manages
Neil (pictured) and Glenda’s 160-hectare farm in Thames
Teagan is proud to be the fifth generation to manage the Gray family farm
“Icame from a small township and went to college doing a threeyear diploma at Cedara College of Agriculture,” says Sicelo.
“I finished in 2014, and the predicament when enrolling was knowing if there were more opportunities in the crop or animal side of things. It’s not like New Zealand, so I did both, thinking I may get a nursery or internship. At the end of
LIVING THE DAIRYING DREAM
my three years, I got my first dairy job and did agronomy for a few months.”
Sicelo worked as a junior manager on a system five farm, milking 1,500 Holstein Friesian cows in a 66-bale rotary shed.
“Setting up, milking, herd management and artificial insemination were all my jobs. At the time, there was an organisation called Future Farmers, which visited farms to see if the interns were progressing. If they deem you fit, you have a chance of sponsorship, and that helped me go to California, USA, for a year.
BY ANN VAN ENGELEN
Sicelo says the future is bright, and he wants to continue to grow his business with farm ownership as the goal
“I had never been outside my province, let alone on a plane, and went to a dairy farm milking 780 Holstein Friesian, three times a day. It was a total mixed-ration system, meaning the cows were housed and never saw grass.
“When I completed my US term, I was meant to return to the same farm at home, but my position was filled, so with no jobs available, I furthered my studies.”
After expanding his education, Sicelo was offered a farm assistant position on a property in Heriot, South Otago.
Sicelo Nene arrived in New Zealand in July 2019 from South Africa to pursue his dream of working in the dairy industry.
Sicelo spent time working at Richmond Downs in Matamata, for Ben and Stacey Watson, where he says he learned a lot
“It was a great experience as it was a pasture-based system. I learned many things and loved the efficiency side of it. I spent six months in Heriot before moving to Milton, South Otago, and things started moving.
“One day, I met a man who asked where I was from. His brother, Paul Duthie, was looking for staff, and I thought, gosh, people are genuinely helpful, and they paved the way for me.
“I went to Paul and Brenda’s, and our values were similar, and it made sense to move. He inspired me as an owneroperator. I did as much as I could there for three years while exploring options. That helped me get a good grasp of the New Zealand system of the whys and hows.”
The following season, Sicelo was 2IC on the farm, and Paul inspired him to enter the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards Dairy Trainee section for Southland.
“Although I didn’t make it to the second round, it was good to get a feel of where things were for me professionally.
“In 2022, a job then came up at Richmond Downs in Matamata with Ben and Stacey Watson managing a 300-cow farm, running a system two variable milking regime. It was a 10/7 system throughout the season and, from December onwards, milking once a day.
“It was a one-man band, and I managed the top hilly farm, and another manager ran their flat farm. It was a good opportunity and a five-year path to sharemilking, which is what I wanted to
Sicelo and Amy were married last year in Dunedin, where Amy’s parents reside — Sicelo’s family also joined the couple for their celebration
do. I worked closely with Ben, who helped me sharpen my decision-making skills.
“It’s a farm where you can’t do your farm walks. You have to implement a different system and it was a very good foundation with a basic pasture-based system. Communication was important because pasture could get away very quickly if not managed properly.
“They were pro-progression, so we had the opportunity to raise our own calves. In the first season, we had 30 calves. It was a big leap as now you have to think of the financial side of things.
“In June 2022, Amy and I moved, and we got married the following April. She’s a teacher in Matamata, and we got engaged on-farm. I was able to have my family come over: my mum, older sister and
Sicelo Nene with his Waikato Regional Merit Award for personal planning and financial management at the 2023 Dairy Industry Awards
youngest brother attend the wedding in Dunedin, where Amy’s parents reside. For me, having not seen them for four years — it was magical.
“Now, I am no longer farm managing but am contract milking on the same farm. Prior to my family coming, I entered the dairy manager of the year, which was great exposure. I wasn’t expecting the runnerup but it helped me network with people willing to help and share information.
“Last year was a major learning curve, being my first year in contract milking. Amy has been a major support in that.
“I think the future is bright, and I want to carry on and grow our business. This season, I am on a different farm in Te Aroha, with 240 cows on a flat 65ha farm and a very lovely couple, the Wood family.”
MINING GETS A NEW LEASE OF LIFE
BY PAUL CAMPBELL
The government’s decision and Minister of Resources Shane Jones’ vowing to see mining retake a national economic lead role has spurred renewed enthusiasm and investigation in the industry.
“No longer will these communities with rich histories intertwined with mining be told they cannot utilise the rich mineral endowments contained in their land,” Jones said.
“My vision is that we change the prevailing mantra about mining to one that doesn’t begin and end with extraction but one that focusses on our mineral needs, economic opportunities and our ability to deliver on this while benefitting our environment and communities.”
For some background, the Waiorongomai Valley near Te Aroha is a significant gold mining area in the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park dating back to 1881 when prospector Hone Werahiko found
The magic cry of “gold” has sparked man’s imagination since the dawn of time and Waikato in particular may see a renaissance with history repeating itself of a rich mining history.
Tailings disposal area at Waihi
gold. However, it was hard rock country, and the area today has a new lease of life as a tourist attraction with numerous walking trails taking in historic gold mining sites and giving insights into the gold rush
days. These include the Piako County Tramway, New Zealand’s oldest bush tramway with original rail still in place and machinery and the remains of gold mines and miners’ lodgings.
With the new mining era apparent it’s timely to note that we have abundant resources of coal, silver, iron ore, limestone and gold. At one time the country stood high on the world index of iron ore and gold production with a total mineral production value of $1.5 billion in 2006. That included 10.62 tonnes of gold, 27.2 tonnes of silver and 2.15 million tonnes of iron sand.
In 2017, mining employed 5,300 people, out of a total workforce of 2,593,000.
Still, into the current century there has been the growth of opposition to mining on environmental grounds. That, of course, attracted Minister Jones’ comment that “if there is a mining opportunity and it’s impeded by a blind frog, goodbye, Freddie.”
On the conservation front, the Golden Cross Mine in the Coromandel Peninsula is the first modern mine in New Zealand to successfully move into planned closure and final rehabilitation.
It first operated as an underground gold mine from 1895 to 1920. Remediation means there is not much to see today other than the tailings dam, which is bush-
clad. In 2013, a sinkhole formed on one side of the open pit footprint, and has been fenced off.
While the government has put the spotlight on the sector, major mining company OceanaGold is seeking resource consent to mine and has confirmed the presence of high-grade gold and silver evidence at Wharekirauponga. It hopes to prepare a feasibility study this year.
OceanaGold welcomes the New Zealand Government’s Fast-track Approvals Bill for regionally and nationally significant infrastructure and development projects.
“Such legislation would allow us to further contribute to the economy by reducing unnecessary regulatory complexity, while still ensuring the same high environmental and social standards are met,” said OceanaGold Senior Vice President for New Zealand Legal and Public Affairs, Alison Paul.
“This includes our commitment to continue engaging fully with affected stakeholders, including iwi, environmental groups and members of the local community. Given the large-scale nature of our development projects at Waihi
WANTED
North and the expansion of the Macraes Operation in accordance with our Life of Mine Plan, together with our track record of responsible operations and contributing to economic development, we believe these projects meet the proposed criteria for consideration for fast-track selection and have submitted both for consideration.
“OceanaGold has been advocating for many years for a clear and timely regulatory process that enables projects that can prove economic benefit as well as important environmental, cultural and social protections to proceed.”
Together, OceanaGold’s two operating mines at Macraes and Waihi directly employ more than 950 people.
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A birds-eye view of the Martha open pit mine
Old mine tracks could be opened up again
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Shearing contests’ comeback confirmed
by Paul Campbell
The return of the Shearing Sports New Zealand nationwide contests has been firmly underlined with an extensive list of 59 shearing events planned for the 2024–2025 season despite the cancellation of the New Zealand Agricultural Show in Christchurch for financial reasons.
The sports movement had been battered by the Covid pandemic, before coming back strongly last year.
Now the Canterbury Shears’ national Corriedale shearing and woolhandling championships will still be held in November. Shearing Sports chairman
Sir David Fagan said because of a determination to successfully stage the championships previously in times of crisis he was “always confident” the event would happen again in 2024.
The decision means that 59 shows will be held in the coming season. These could feature the early stage of New Zealand team selection processes ahead of the next world championships, to be held at the Golden Shears in Masterton on March 4–7 2026.
Canterbury shears committee chairman Jonathon Carden-Holdstock, a former show operations manager, confirmed the decision to proceed with the championships, on November 14–15,
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• On receipt of these, and a payment of $250 + GST, I will ring you for an in-depth chat. I will then send you a detailed written assessment of the optimum fertiliser strategy to minimise your fertiliser expenditure and GHG emissions while achieving your production targets.
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the traditional show week, with a range of sponsors.
The competition’s schedule for the rest of this year includes:
• October 4–5 (Friday and Saturday):
NZ Merino Shears at Alexandra
• October 11–12 (Friday and Saturday): NZ Spring Shears at Waimate
• October 19 (Saturday): Poverty Bay A&P Show, at Gisborne; Ellesmere A&P Show at Leeston
• October 25–27 (Friday to Sunday): Australian National Championships and Trans-Tasman tests, at Katanning, Western Australia
• October 25 (Friday): Great Raihania Shears, at Hawke’s Bay A&P Show, Hastings
• October 26 (Saturday): Northern A&P Show, at Rangiora
• November 2 (Saturday): Manawatū A&P Show, at Manfeild (Feilding); Ashburton A&P Show, at Ashburton
• November 3 (Sunday): Wairarapa A&P Show at Clareville (Carterton)
• November 9 (Saturday): Central Hawke’s Bay A&P Show, at Waipukurau; Marlborough A&P Show, at Blenheim; Get to the Point Gymkhana Shears, at Pleasant Point
• November 14–15 (Thursday and Friday): New Zealand Corriedale
Championships at the NZ Agricultural Show, Canterbury Agricultural Park, Christchurch
• November 23 (Saturday): West Otago A&P Show, at Tapanui; Nelson A&P Show at Richmond Park (Nelson)
• November 30 (Saturday): Taranaki Shears, at Stratford A&P Show
• December 7 (Saturday): Whangārei A&P Show at Whangārei; Geyserland Agrodome Shears, Rotorua A&P Show, at Ngongotaha Dates into the following year are online at shearingsports.nz. Call Continuous Waikato today for your free no obligation Spouting and Downpipe Spouting & Downpipes for your place, or hay barn, or cow shed .......
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Shears committee chairman Jonathon Carden Holdstock has confirmed competition will go ahead despite a major show cancellation
by New Zealand First
Helping the sector flourish
New Zealand First recognises the critical role of a thriving primary sector as the engine room of New Zealand’s economy.
Improving primary sector profitability is crucial for New Zealand to remain competitive internationally and to put value back behind the farm gate.
By developing our international connections and trade options, the government is planning to double New Zealand’s exports in the next ten years. A significant portion of this will be achieved through agriculture and forestry.
We are getting provincial New Zealand thriving again with $1.2 billion to establish the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF). This includes protecting our rural communities with an initial investment of $200 million into flood resilience infrastructure.
We know that investing in proactive strategies is more cost-effective than paying to rebuild after disastrous weather events. For every $1 invested in flood protection, it is estimated between $5–$8 in direct losses are avoided.
Rural communities are where our heartland industries thrive, and regional investment not only protects our primary productive base but also supports primary industry growth.
Changes to the Resource Management Act (RMA) and the introduction of Fast-Track Consenting legislation will also dramatically impact our rural sector.
Streamlining consenting and bureaucratic processes, and removing red and green tape for initiatives such
as irrigation, water storage, and flood protection schemes is imperative. These measures are aimed at expediting the implementation of infrastructure projects, facilitating economic growth, strengthening community resilience against natural disasters, and ensuring that the communities surrounding these projects can prosper.
Previous investment through the Provincial Growth Fund has positively impacted our regions through projects such as water storage in Northland and Hawke’s Bay, and flood resilience infrastructure in Canterbury. Further investment through the RIF will continue to bolster these areas against future weather events and environmental planning burdens.
New Zealand First made clear commitments in our coalition agreement that will back farm environment plans, reduce regulatory hurdles for farmers, and solidify our dedication to a commonsense approach to agricultural sustainability. We are deeply committed to championing our country’s hard-working rural sector and celebrating the unique kiwi industry that our export economy relies on.
Backing our Regions with $1 2 billion for the Regional Infrastructure Fund to turbocharge rural communities.
Supporting young kiwis with $24 million to Gumboot Friday for free mental health counselling sessions
Getting tough on rising crime with $651 million for 500 more police officers and the tools they need to do their job.
Building our future workforce with $65 million for ‘Apprenticeship Boost’ to help tradies keep and take on new apprentices.
Rt Hon Winston Peters
WELCOME TO THE REGION
BUY,EAT, WORK , PLAY
Moving to green pastures
We supply superior quality and workmanship for your new build or renovation. Fascia and spouting of all profiles and materials.
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by Andy Bryenton
June 1 was Gypsy Day or Moving Day for farmers all across New Zealand, a tradition, which has its origins in the very distant past, and its roots in the calendar of the seasons.
For many years, the traditional moving day for farmers has gone by the title of Gypsy Day. It’s a moniker with little to do with the real Roma people except its name. The naming of the day is said to be no insult to Europe’s travellers but rather a favourable comparison. It is a gentle nudge at the farmers and sharemilkers themselves, taking their whole household to the open road to move farms in a way infinitely less graceful or ordered than the convoys of the travelling folk. Bystanders must have laughed to see whole herds and homesteads unsteadily hitting the highway.
hit the
on
very important reason. In the world of livestock, the most important resource for a farmer was hay. The productivity of a farming area was measured by how much hay could be mown to tide cattle over the cold winters.
This year, sharemilkers and new farm owners on the move for June 1 were echoing those days of yore. In modern times, the start of June also brings International Milk Appreciation Day, which fits in nicely with this old farming tradition. THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING LOCAL
In New Zealand, some opine that the selection of June 1 as a day for all rural transactions and contracts to take effect was decided when the State Advances Corporation came into being in 1894. Stories abound of clerks in Wellington spending a frantic week and an even more frantic June 1 making sure that manual paperwork for thousands of farms was put to rights in an era before computers. Even earlier than the use of the term Gypsy Day, farms changed hands on June 1 in mediaeval England for a
June 1 was the traditional beginning of the hay harvest when peasants with scythes went into the fields to reap fodder for their animals. Before this harvest was the best time to buy a farm, and assess its worth. The date was kept by the local priest, who kept track of the calendar to observe important religious holidays and the phases of the farming cycle.
The move to the southern hemisphere turned this upside down, but there’s another important factor in Kiwi farming, which comes at this time of year. Cows begin to dry off and calving looms, as winter turns colder. It’s a natural progression to see June 1 as the start of a different part of the cycle of the rural seasons.
Cattle
road
a traditional Gypsy Day move; while livestock trucks are more commonly used today, the image of the mobile farmstead remains in the popular imagination
Quality plant care
Waikato-owned and operated, Wilson Trees can cater to all your arborist and landscaping needs with its team that is committed to sustainably offering solutions.
Craig Wilson, with 22 years of experience, nationally and internationally, leads the NzArb-af liated company and has a squad of quali ed arborists. Servicing Hamilton, Te Awamutu, Cambridge, Otorohanga, Raglan and the surrounding areas, the dedicated team prides itself on completing excellent tree work with modern, well-maintained tools and machinery.
Customers can rely on Wilson Trees for all aspects of tree care, including pruning to retain optimal health for the tree, tree reductions, shaping, lifting, removals, felling, chipping, mulching, stump grinding and hedge trimming.
Mulch can be left or taken on request, but it is excellent for the garden, ensuring weed growth is reduced and soil moisture is retained and warm. The organic matter does wonders for soil health and promotes good plant life. We also sell and deliver mulch.
Arborists will also assist with fallen or damaged trees from storms and other emergencies with care and precision to ensure safety and ease for the property inhabitants. People wanting to
The Wilson Trees crew give quality service with an experienced and friendly approach subdivide or have unusable space on their property can take advantage of their land clearing service.
Whatever the task, clients can rely on the crew’s professional, experienced and friendly approach. Equipped with two trucks, various-sized chipper units, a winch and a digger with a log grapple, the business can offer the right solutions for your trees.
The service is strongly customerfocussed with competitive prices. Whether sprucing up the shape of trees in your backyard or clearing a section
for a new build, Wilson Trees offers excellent, quality workmanship. For further information, visit facebook. com/WilsonTreesNZ or wilsontrees. co.nz, phone Craig on 027 514 0341 or email info@wilsontrees.co.nz.
Calf pen cleaning tips
Calving season is a busy time on the farm, with everyone pitching in
to raise the next generation of cows.
The rst days and weeks of a calve’s life are crucial, impacting their future health, growth and productivity. Ensuring that calf pens are kept dry, clean and hygienic is essential.
Scours and pneumonia are common diseases that threaten young calves, increasing death rates, stress, and costs, which can affect future income. Proper preparation of calf pens and bedding can signi cantly reduce these risks.
Good air ow, a hard, clean base and a 300–500mm layer of bedding like straw, sawdust, or shavings on top will keep your calves safer and more comfortable. Using ZorbiFresh™ Active, which absorbs up to 199% of its weight in moisture, can also help by soaking up ammonia and nitrates and killing bacteria.
Here are our top tips for maintaining clean calf pens:
• Maintain a Clean Environment: Regularly remove clumped organic matter like manure and any soiled bedding. This reduces the risk of disease and illness
• Cover Light Soiling: If you can’t remove lightly soiled areas, cover
them with more bedding and moisture-absorbent
• Disinfect Equipment Daily: Clean and disinfect calf test buckets, feeding equipment, and boots with hot water and a common detergent or chlorinated alkaline solution. Follow with a chemical agent like chlorine dioxide to ensure all surfaces are bacteria-free
• Use ZorbiFresh™ Active: Apply ZorbiFresh™ Active every two to three days to reduce odour and moisture, and kill bacteria in bedding, including Staph aureus and E coli
• Isolate Sick Calves: At the rst sign of illness, remove the affected calf from the pen and clean out all organic matter to prevent contagion
• Wear Gloves: Ensure everyone working with the calves, including children, wears gloves and changes them regularly
Keeping calf pens clean and dry is crucial for the health and growth of calves. Healthy, happy calves can focus their energy on growing into strong, productive cows.For more advice on animal health for your calves, talk to our friendly team.
Proper preparation of calf pens and bedding can significantly reduce illness in calves
WELCOME TO THE REGION
Where farming meets education
by Amy Fifita
For many families, their local rural school is often the community hub doing things differently than city facilities with events like agricultural days and Enviroschool planting days.
Many rural schools and daycare centres work with Enviroschools. The kaupapa is designed to empower students to give back to their community sustainably while educating them. With initiatives like planting days on nearby farms and marine education, children can use this as a foundation if they want to become farmers or work rurally.
Enviroschools also has a network of partnerships that widen the perspective on education and how that looks practically. The organisation works on more than just the environment. There is also an interest in creating sustainability culturally, economically and socially.
School orchards or gardens are encouraged. It gives students a soil-totable understanding and a pathway to contribute to their community. Studies have shown that gardening has a positive effect on a child’s wellbeing and mental health. The hands-on approach also helps them see that diligence and care achieve good outcomes. It also connects with nature and their environment.
Another benefit is agricultural days. Students get to showcase their skills with their farm animals. Children learn about responsibility and animal care leading up to the day. Students have the opportunity to bond, nurture and know their chosen animals, be it a calf, lamb or chicken. The hard work pays off when students show their knowledge and skills, such as leading and calling at the agricultural day. The event also encourages families to get together to support their children and celebrate their successes.
Parents wanting to make a bigger impact can join the school Parent Teacher Association. The association helps drive positive changes through fundraising and resources, such as offering the family farm as a place for students to visit. Being part of the PTA puts parents in the position to help build the community and provide family activities for the area to enjoy.
Students contributed to their community by getting involved in ecological planting days
WE SPECIALISE IN SMALL BLOCK FARMS TOO!
Cleaning industry leaders
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Additionally, we are quali ed to apply insect treatments to the exterior and interior of your buildings. We have invested heavily in the latest equipment from Italy.
Our in-house engineer has dedicated a signi cant amount of time to testing what works best in our line of work to achieve the best results for our clients and their properties.
As a result, we believe we have built the best cleaning set-up in Waikato, ensuring no damage is done in the process and the best possible results are achieved. With more than 22 years of experience, Softwash Professional has been a leader in the industry, providing a dependable and trustworthy service.
We take pride in making it easy for our clients, allowing you to spend less time worrying about maintenance and focus your efforts on your business. For more information, visit softwash.co.nz, phone 07 848 1700 or email of ce@ softwash.co.nz.
Email: al@arcoenviro.co.nz
76% of New Zealanders are concerned about “fake news” and its implications
Softwash Professionals prides itself on the efficient cleaning of milking sheds and other rural and lifestyle buildings
WELCOME TO THE REGION
PRESTIGE APPRECIATED AT FIELDAYS
The Fieldays Fencing Competition sparked intense interest, with Tim Garrick winning the Golden Pliers by Wiremark from reigning champion Tony Bouskill, and also winning the Nick Liefting First-of-the-line trophy.
“It feels surreal. It is prestigious to get to the finals, and being on top feels like I’m on the next level. I am the 16th person to win it. Tony Bouskill has won it five years in a row, so to beat him on any day is a momentous achievement,” said Tim.
Tim was also in the winning team with Cory Twigley in the Silver Spades Doubles Championship.
“Our first competition was in 2018, and this is our fifth year at Fieldays. Cory Twigley and I have been getting better and learning at every competition, so it is nice to have made some progress.”
“Versing others who are great can be daunting, but it gives you a big goal to aim for. There’s a good level of camaraderie. We are all there to do a better and faster job, and help each other do that through competition.”
Farmers across New Zealand visited the National Fieldays to witness rural successes, competitions, innovations and businesses showcasing their farming contributions.
BY AMY FIFITA & ANDY BRYENTON
At the Fieldays 2024 Tractor Pull, competitors displayed their driving skills under pressure. Overall winners were Shawn Luxton in the Weight Transfer Class, Wally Sinton in the Modified section, Kevin Mounsey in the Pre-85 Class and Michael Austin in the Weight Adjusted Class.
The prestigious Fieldays Innovation Award was contested by a record number of thinkers, tinkerers, engineers and creators. Even the shortlist was extensive. Sixty-two participants flocked to the Fieldays Innovation Hub to face the scrutiny of a panel of 15 judges.
“This group of innovators represent incredibly hard-working and creative teams who have seen a need in the market and done what they can to fill it,” said New Zealand National Fieldays Society programme manager Steve Chappell.
“Every year we see solutions for current problems and new innovative ways to use existing materials.”
Saint Peter’s of Cambridge student Penny Ranger took home the Young
Ranger’s Mark-It sheep drenching identification system is simple, elegant, and solves a long-standing rural problem with intelligence
Innovator Award with a simple concept that could revolutionise sheep drenching. The Mark-It system streamlines the job by making it easy to see which animals have been drenched, without adding steps to the process.
“It is a classic Kiwi solution that simplifies an important task while helping save money and waste,” said the judges.
Penny
At the cutting edge, the Prototype Award winner for 2024 was Auckland firm Fleecegrow, which posits a novel approach that could replace rock wool and peat in greenhouse growing. Their concept is strong, sustainable and utilises fibre which would otherwise be discarded.
“Not only does Fleecegrow convert a waste product into something valuable, but it does it by providing an environmentally superior planting material for commercial growers,” said head judge Peter Dowd.
South Waikato Garage Doors
Also, in the world of fibre innovation, Christchurch company KiwiFibre won this year’s early-stage award, with a concept that could see harakeke flax replace carbon fibre and fibreglass in engineering applications.
“KiwiFibre profiles a potential new primary industry crop that uses an abundant plant in marginal farmland and supports planting for waterway protection,” said co-founder William Murrell.
Tractor Pull overall winners Michael Austin, Kevin Mounsey, Wally Sinton and Shawn Luxton
Fieldays’ Tim Garrick (right) won the Golden Pliers by Wiremark, the Nick Liefting first-of-the-line trophy and the Silver Spades Doubles Championship with teammate Cory
by Andy Bryenton
Rally alliance delivers results
Hyundai continues to expand its offering in the Kiwi market, leading the charge the way other automakers have done in the past, by winning on race day.
Part of that philosophy includes a winning partnership with top New Zealand rally driver Hayden Paddon. The 2024 rally season, in which Paddon will defend his European Rally Championship crown, is the tenth he’s spent with the South Korean brand. During that tenure, he topped the podium at the WRC Rally Argentina, bagged four New Zealand
Hydunai’s retro-futurist NVision 74 is a prime example of forward-thinking by the Korean automaker Rally Championship titles, helped to develop the world’s first-ever all-electric rally car, and set the course record at the challenging Ashley Forest hillclimb event.
Zealand. It also helps that he’s a bloody good driver, too, and wins his fair share of rallies,” said Hyundai New Zealand CEO Scott Kelsey.
Rally and motorsport fans alike have a lot to look forward to with the advancement of electrified vehicle technologies,” he says.
Hyundai has backed up the words of its rally ace with new vehicles, too. First came the radically retro-styled NVision 74, a hydrogen hybrid concept vehicle brought to life by the design genius of SangYup Lee and his team. It’s a poem in metal, dedicated to the love of those old classic, angular sports coupes of the 1970s, and it sets a blistering pace as well as looking sinfully good.
More recently, Hyundai’s N department has debuted the Ioniq 5 N, a highperformance EV that can deliver 641 horsepower but behaves quietly and comfortably during day-to-day driving. The Ioniq 5 N arrived in New Zealand in April, and it’s already caused quite a stir with its blend of practicality and sheer power. Hyundai calls it an ‘everyday sports car’.
PHONE ANDREW:
“As a technology-led brand, the relationship with Hayden allows us to showcase our innovations on a local and international stage. Hayden is a professional through and through and represents the direction and values that we strive to achieve at Hyundai New
As an instrumental part of the team that debuted Hyundai’s electric Kona EV rally car in 2020, Hayden is also very much a believer in exciting motor racing without petrol or pistons.
“Always push the boundaries of what’s possible and embrace new technology.
Lessons from remixing the Kona into a rally weapon with Hayden Paddon at the wheel are certain to have been spliced into its DNA, and that’s all in the fine tradition of motorsport leading to better outcomes for the civilian driver. It’s excellent to know that this process of tempering and evolution continues to shine outside of the conventions of internal combustion.
Agritechnica’s Pacific expansion
by Andy Bryenton
Not too long ago, people would have expressed disbelief that major new cars would debut at Beijing’s annual motor show, but times have changed.
It’s a similar story in the world of tractors and agricultural machinery. For a very long time, Agritechnica, the gigantic European showcase of agricultural technology, was the Geneva Motor Show of farming. However, in late May a new contender in the Asia-Pacific region has proven that the demand for farming innovation is truly global.
“The many records this year prove that it is the most successful Agritechnica Asia trade fair to date. As an organiser, and as an agricultural society serving international farmers, we are immensely proud of this achievement. We look forward to expanding this concept in Asia,” says Katharina Staske, the managing director of DLG Asia Pacific, who hosted the show.
Agritechnica Asia was held in Bangkok, Thailand for 2024, and it’s a bellwether event for farming in the region. Exhibitor numbers were up by 40 per cent, making it the biggest event of its kind in the Asia-Pacific area. A total of 353 exhibitors from 28 nations packed into Bangkok’s convention centre to display the latest in tractors, machinery and innovations.
Firms based in Australia and New Zealand rivalled those from host nation Thailand, engineering powerhouse Germany and regional manufacturing giant China in sheer floor space covered. More than 12,000 attendees came to see the cutting edge in agriculture, and close
Asian
a
to half of these were from other Pacificrim nations rather than Thailand.
A huge turnout was matched with new products, and not just from names which would only be familiar to Asian farmers.
Of the 222 tractors on display, Valtra, Claas, Case IH, Deutz-Fahr, Fendt, John Deere and Mahindra were just some of the big names that have participated in Agritechnica Asia. This kind of event brings added focus to the entire region, and while New Zealand is only a small market compared to some others served by the big show in Bangkok, such a display brings the top names in farming closer to home.
This is only the fourth time that Agritechnica has been hosted outside of the EU, and it’s proven to be a winning formula. Next year, the show moves to
Vietnam, another fast-growing economy with an appetite for smarter farming. That’s good news for Kiwi businesses looking to travel a shorter distance to see what’s new, and also a golden opportunity for local innovators who want to put their products in front of a motivated global market.
Delegates and buyers flocked to Agritechnica’s fourth
outing, providing
perfect platform for local innovators to show their wares
KENNELS
DAIRY & LIVESTOCK
A new chapter
Dairy Women’s Network will be farewelling two board trustees at its annual general meeting in October with Donna Smit and Mark Heer stepping down after almost 10 years.
“Mark and Donna have been invaluable on our board,” says DWN Board chair, Trish Rankin.
“Their multiple-terms, three years per term, as trustees have added significant value, insights and thinking to make sure we keep on track and deliver for our members. We’ve just celebrated 25 years of DWN excellence, and we are poised for even greater impact and growth. Mark and Donna have been an important factor in helping us take the next step.
“DWN will miss having them around the board table as a dynamic duo. They may approach ideas like chalk and cheese but are fantastic to watch together as they work through how we achieve our purpose and manage our finances and operate as a not-for-profit.”
Mark has 30 years of experience in business in rural and corporate banking, manufacturing, wholesale and retail SMEs. He has also held governance roles in these sectors, both as a shareholding director and an independent director.
Donna has significant experience as a Chartered Accountant and, with her husband, Corrie, built up a successful family farming business, owning seven farms in Edgecumbe and Oamaru, and investments in kiwifruit.
“They have a special balance of personal knowledge and unique abilities that cannot
be replicated. Mark is always thinking with an organisational heart and about our people, and Donna is amazing at making sure the numbers work, which, together with the other trustees, have enabled the organisation to be hugely successful.”
Applications for DWN Trustee positions have opened. DWN is looking for people passionate about championing diversity, empowering individuals and shaping the future of the dairy industry to join its board of trustees.
“We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences, and encourage anyone with passion for our mission to apply, regardless of gender. You don’t have to be an experienced governance professional or even be a dairy professional, we want your unique skills and your connection to the rural sector.
“We are particularly interested in candidates who have experience as an audit and risk chair or have an entrepreneurial spirit and some business and financial acumen. Above all, we’re looking for individuals who are committed to our mission of supporting and empowering women in the dairy industry. We are taking applications now as we could appoint before October.”
Visit dwn.co.nc for more information.
Donna Smit and Mark Heer will step down from the Dairy Women’s Network Board this coming October
by Andy Bryenton
Farming red tape to be slashed
The coalition government’s campaign rhetoric on farming called for the drastic reduction of red tape in the rural sector, with a special focus on unlocking the products, technologies and practices being adopted overseas.
Now Regulation Minister David Seymour is moving on the issue, with an announcement made just in time for the National Fieldays in Waikato.
“Farmers overseas are using innovative technologies we don’t have access to that make animals emit less methane, make fruit and vegetable plants grow faster, and control pests and diseases with less environmental harm,” said Mr Seymour.
“If we don’t remove these barriers to productivity, we will fall behind our global competitors when we need to grow the economy through trade.”
Speaking from Mystery Creek in midJune, Mr Seymour focussed closely on veterinary medicines, animal feed products and other goods, which must be approved by the Environmental Protection Agency and New Zealand Food Safety. He opined that some products may even be approved, but upgrades and replacements of those same products could be inexplicably banned.
The minister was not talking about removing bans on gene modification technologies, which he said would be investigated separately. However, in a broadcast interview with radio journalist Jamie Mackay, he called New Zealand’s genetic modification laws “archaic”, indicating his position on the controversial technology.
“New Zealand farmers and growers are among the most efficient in the world. What the Government needs to do is reduce barriers and let them continue to make positive change,” says Mr Seymour.
His colleague, ex-Federated Farmers leader and now Biosecurity Minister and Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard, agrees. So, too, does Environment Minister Penny Simmonds, making for a strong triumvirate of governmental support.
“We need access to new technologies and products to keep ahead of the game. Our primary sector will contribute $54.6 billion in export revenue this year. That’s about 80 per cent of all merchandise exports,” Mr Hoggard says.
“Having been involved with farming all my life, the value of our agriculture and horticulture industries is clear to me. I understand the daily frustrations with red tape that farmers and growers face while they make a significant contribution to our economy. It is only through a strong economy that we can reduce inflation, lift incomes and afford the quality public services Kiwis deserve,” says Ms Simmonds.
The review is being developed now, with a timetable soon to be announced by the Beehive.
