Waikato Farming Lifestyle November 2020 by Integrity Community Media

November 2020 Edition

From Jersey to Saanen Pages 4â&#x20AC;&#x201C;5

Christmas Preparation Issue

Wool to the fore

Tribute to dedication

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NovEMbER 2020 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

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The Waikato Farming Lifestyles is published with pride by Integrity Community Media, a privately owned NZ company. Phone: 0800 466 793 Email: info@integrity.nz General Manager: Deb Wright | deb.wright@integrity.nz | 021 639 696 Editorial: Ann van Engelen, Paul Campbell, Andy Bryenton Advertising: Teresa Steed 027 525 8223 Accounts: accounts@integrity.nz Distribution: Laurie Willetts Website: www.farminglifestyles.co.nz

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Forestry scholarships received Nga Karahipi Uru Rakau — Forestry Scholarship is supporting another eight aspiring New Zealanders to study and pursue careers in forestry, with its 2021 scholarship recipients. Now in its third year, the scholarships are increasing diversity in forestry sciences and engineering, with a strong focus on encouraging Maori and women to embark on forestry careers. “Maori and women represent only a small percentage of the forestry workforce. Te Uru Rakau endeavours to change that and make the forestry and wood processing sector more reflective of our communities,” says acting deputy director-general of Forestry New Zealand, Henry Weston. With the latest cohort, the scholarship programme has to date now supported 22 Maori and women to study forestry science/engineering at the University of Canterbury, providing $8,000 each year during the degrees’ four-year duration. “Forestry science and engineering keeps New Zealand wood at the cutting edge of innovation and sought after by customers around the globe. The insights and experiences these recipients will bring as future forestry scientists and engineers will help us grow the forestry industry, ensuring science and technology underpin this thriving sector. “We consider many factors in the selection of scholarship recipients, including students’ interest and commitment to a career in forestry, as well as their community involvement and

leadership skills, are considered. “Receiving a scholarship is something recipients can take much pride in, as can their whanau and friends. Through their study and the summer internship programme, they will see a huge range of career paths aside from planting, pruning, and harvesting trees in forestry; a sector, key to our country’s economic wellbeing and more sustainable environmental outcomes. “I am looking forward to seeing the big things these scholarship recipients achieve throughout their studies and forestry careers.” The recipients of the 2021 forestry scholarships are Anaru Walker from Christchurch, Warkworth’s Angus Syminton, Chloe Small from Methven, Wellingtonian Heather Harper, Katikati’s Lana ParkerHay, Maude Rogers from Wanaka, and Steven Doherty and Tessa McCarthy both from Rotorua. Scholarship applicants must be studying towards a Bachelor of Forestry Science or Bachelor of Engineering with Honours, majoring in forestry engineering at the University of Canterbury. They must be eligible to enrol in either a Bachelor of Forestry Science or Bachelor of Engineering

Henry Weston, acting deputy director-general of Forestry New Zealand

(Hons) in forestry engineering. They need to be of Maori descent or identify as female and either a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident. Recipients are also given the opportunity to earn while they learn, with annual paid summer forestry internships coordinated by Te Uru Rakau. Find out more about Nga Karahipi Uru Rakau — Forestry Scholarships at mpi.govt.nz/about-mpi/our-work/ scholarships-awards/nga-karahipi-ururakau-forestry-scholarships/.

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FROM JERSEY TO SAANEN Molly Fletcher discovered the tranquil life of goats when she could no longer show cattle due to the M bovis outbreak. by Ann van Engelen

“I

was raised in town until I was nine years old and we moved to a lifestyle block five years ago,” says Molly. “My mother’s grandfather farmed Jersey cows for 40 years. Great-grandad never had a registered stud but bred purebred Jerseys, which went back to Jersey Island. When we moved, I started showing cattle and became very successful. I brought cattle from Warren and Michelle Ferguson of Ferdon

Genetics at Otorohanga. They have been a massive part of my success with cattle. My Jersey Stud is Panorama Stud, and I have two-year-old Sophia, and I bred Savannah. At the Waikato Show in October I won the Jersey Senior Heifer calf, which was a massive step for me. “Buying Sophia gave me experience, and the following year we purchased a heifer and a bull that was the sire of my calf. The Fergusons taught me to take

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small steps because you don’t know what is coming around the corner. “I got into goats in 2018 when everything came to a halt with M bovis. I had four calves, and it was my last year for Calf Club and Ag Day, and I didn’t want to give up my interest. My mum works with dairy goat farmers, and I was able to get a Saanen kid called Poppie from the Heays family in Waihi, and I started Silverfalls Dairy Goat Stud. “I knew nothing about goat showing, and we took it in our stride and amazingly won about 120 ribbons for the shows

we attended that year. Poppie absolutely changed my life and is now very much a part of our family. “Then we bought Poppie’s sister, named Paris, and Chloe from the Heays. Then we purchased a buck named Yossy from breeder Rita Braem. She has been fantastic as well. That was another successful showing season.” Poppie won the Herd Registered Doe Kid of the Year. The next year, Paris backed up the HR Doe Kid of the Year, and Poppie won the HR Goatling of the year.

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Molly Fletcher has turned to showing and breeding Saanen dairy goats at Silverfalls Stud in addition to her Jersey cattle at Panorama Stud “A goatling is a one-year-old, and Yossy won the Buck Kid of the Year. I also won the Junior Showman in 2018 and 2019. That is based on knowledge, presentation and ability to show the goat. “Rita has started retiring and sold me her two best does. I am extremely appreciative of her trust in me with her animals and am honoured that she chose me. This September we welcomed our first kids to Silverfalls Stud. We have seven kids now. Petal was our little queen and has changed our whole world. We started the 2020 show season in October, and at onemonth-old, she won her class. “Poppie’s friend had triplets, and we also had a set of twins and a single. Goats are very interesting. They are funny and human-like. Kids have four small meals a day and slowly transition to meal and hay. It is a slow process as they are very structured animals. You drop a feed and add the meal and then the hay. “You need to keep a close eye on them and know what to look for healthwise.

They need worming four times a year, but their feet need trimming every three to four weeks to stop foot rot and other issues. My mum has taken on that responsibility. “Ours love to be groomed and stamp their feet or lick you for their turn. In winter they have little huts and covers to stay dry and warm in. At present we have four milkers, five goatlings, two kids and one buck. Milking goats need grass for milk production. Milking is done with a portable milking machine. “The milk goes to the kids until they are weaned. Ultimately, we would love to make soap and cheese, but at present, we don’t have the time. The young stock live off grass and roam the paddock. They pick at weeds and thistles and always need clean water as they dislike dirty water. “I encourage other young people to get into goats. I am one of the only young ones showing and it is so much fun. There is no one coming through with people retiring. People are always willing to help so young people can get started. It is a great hobby for lifestyle

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Wool to the fore by Ann van Engelen

Barbie Cassidy describes herself as a sheep person, brought up in the country at the foothills of the Wakarara Ranges.

“I

was a war child, and my father had sheep and raised racehorses. He believed I should work hard and from five years old it was my job to get rid of the rabbits on the farm,” says Barbie. “I had a cocker spaniel, called Sue, a knife, a little spade and one of mum’s stockings. I would walk around the farm, and Sue would find the rabbit holes. I would pull the babies out, dispatch them and cut off the tails. Dad gave me a threepence per tail and Sue ate the meat. My other jobs included collecting the tufts of wool off the fences and

plucking any dead sheep I found. The wool I gathered was so valuable a bale would buy a cow or nearly a car. “In those times, some dogs got fed twice a week, and lived in old tanks that were freezing in winter and hot in summer.” Barbie married Garth Cassidy who worked in the family business Cassidy Transport. “We had 30 stock trucks, and people kept asking Garth to run for parliament. Twenty-six people went up for the job, including Ruth Richardson. Garth got through to the last three.

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“It was a nightmare that election night as I said I would divorce him if he were an MP. We had animals and four children, and I had absolutely no desire to live in Wellington. John Falloon became Minister of Agriculture and two friends and I stayed with John and his wife in Wellington. While we were there, a gift arrived from Lord Sam Vesty, previously of Tomoana Works in Hastings. It was a little round dog bed for their Highland terrier. “I thought it was a good idea, but it was made of synthetic rubbish. John suggested we make something from wool. I went home and sat drawing at the kitchen table. That day, Neil Sloan, a saddler and I made a Labrador and a Jack Russell bed. We improved the shape from round to oval and found a friend to sew the covers. We filled those first two with bags of gifted wool knops. “The wool knops are made with a machine that blows strong wool with force to make shapes. “A man called Phil Collins was using it to insulate houses. I rang him to congratulate him on his efforts. He came and gave me two big plastic bags

of knops. We made the dog beds with it, and my soapbox thing is now to get strong wool in the light.“ Barbie says a hobby was born, the dogs approved and the word spread like a chain letter. “Nearly 30 years later, the beds are still made on a daily basis with many more uses for knopped wool arising. The knop wool doesn’t flatten and is therapeutic. One day I started putting the wool into sacks, and a labrador sat comfortably on the sack. Now I make a sack bed for farm dogs, with four kilograms of long fleece wool. “Each dog needs its own, never pass a bed on to other dogs because if a bitch has been on heat, another dog will rip it up. “I use a finer, sanitised small ball in pillows for people. The small version is for very important passengers, in hospital, for children in car seats and they are great between legs following a hip transplant. “My website, vipbeds.co.nz has all the options available. The wool gives the dogs joints a bit of a massage. Letters constantly arrive attesting to

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Barbie Cassidy is on a mission to see New Zealand lead the world with strong wool and woollen products

the therapeutic help from both forms of wool. “We sold our property and moved to the beach to retire. Two days a week I go to my shed and post my beds and pillows. All our sofas were filled with wool. Our family does not have any synthetics at all. “We just wear and live in wool, silk, cotton and linen and never ever get a

cold. We only believe in natural fibres because synthetics are so bad for you. I married an amazing man who did so much in this district. He got roads where there were no roads and started a marine reserve and RT radios in trucks. “Every day has been exciting, with lots of fun, but the world is changing so much. It is time we get back to the good stuff, and bring wool to the forefront of

New Zealand homes. We need to back our sheep farmers and realise the health benefits of wool products. “It is a waste to have bales of wool stored in sheds because nylon is the most used product. “We need to lead the world with woollen products. It is right here in our own backyard and Kiwis seem blind to it.”

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Tribute to dedication by Ann van Engelen Hauraki farmer Robert Hicks has been acknowledged for his 42 years of unswerving service in flood protection and land drainage by the Waikato Regional Council.

obert knows more than a thing or two about flood and drainage management. He started in 1978 as a member of the Western Drainage Committee for Hauraki Plains County and retired as chair for the Waihou Piako Catchment Committee this year. “I grew up in Piako Road in Turua by the Wairau River and lived all my life on the Hauraki Plains. I went sharemilking until I brought my parents’ farm,” says Robert. “I milked for 40 odd years and also purchased a property to breed Hereford cattle. I sold that and my hill country property and now have a small block

where I finish Angus and Angus Cross cattle. They go to Wilson-Hellaby in Auckland when finished. “In 1976 a neighbour was retiring from the Hauraki County Board and suggested I stand to replace him as I was younger. He put my name forward, and I was elected. A term later, I became a deputy chair and then chairman. “I hadn’t taken much interest in drainage and rivers prior. Then I wanted to change all sorts of things but soon changed my mind on what I could do. I knew flood protection was important on the plains as my grandfather was on the board. He used to take me to the FIVE YEARS OF DEVELOPMENT HAS ARRIVED!

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Robert believes it is important to work with farmers regarding flood issues so they can understand what is happening and how to fix the problems without affecting others further down the line

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Bagnalls flood gates to ensure they were shut when the tide turned. If they didn’t shut the water drained out at night. “My father also took me to Netherton when the whole road and farmland was under water. That was very impressionable to me, and when I got into drainage, I thought about those things. I realised you can’t live there without flood protection schemes or drainage. The water would return, and it would return to swamp quickly in the lower parts of the plains. “We now have 100-year protection banks. Staff analyse what is happening every single day. If the sea were to rise, we would adjust the stop banks accordingly. We monitor hourly, daily, weekly and monthly and adjust as necessary. “I was able to help accomplish so much thanks to my wife Kathy. She looked after the farm when I needed to be away. My most memorable thing is the sea coming in back in the 1980s. It was on a long weekend when everyone was on holiday. It really made us think about what we are doing. “What impressed me the most was how well the Waihou-Piako catchment had been run over the years before I became chair. This was due to the great culture and long-serving staff — a number of who had served over 40 to 50 years. This, along with elected members’ sound discussing making, contributed to it being the best and interesting river catchment to be involved in. I just had to ensure things were kept up to date and modern. I loved travelling around New Zealand looking at the low areas such

Robert Hicks was involved in the flood protection and drainage schemes for 42 years, often visiting flood areas across the country

as the Tarire Plains and Ruawai flats that had flood protection. To understand flooding, you have to look when a flood or event is happening. It is all about causes and effects, just like roading. Things can cause an effect instantly or over time. “At the Piako catchment, the peat dome slows the water going down to Matamata. If it was drained, it would be a big hole that would allow flooding. The reserves are also an important part of the complex system. “Generally locals know what is affecting their area but may not know how to fix it. Working with them means farmers can understand what we do and why. For example, in a flood, we may send water to a rugby field because it is better for a field to flood, where we have control, rather than have a surprise of flooding a whole township.

“People talk about the cost of flood protection. The reality is you need it, or over time the land will lose value. Someone younger taking over from me is a positive thing. You can stay too long in a job and not keep up with current trends and environmental changes. I am 74 years old now and will keep on farming because it is important to keep your mind busy.” River and Catchment Management Committee chair Cr Stu Husband says: “Robert served unswervingly for more than four decades and we are forever in his debt.

“His dedication has ensured the flood and drainage schemes remain in great condition, protecting thousands of hectares and people across the Hauraki Plains. “These schemes also protect significant local, regional and national infrastructure, and your role in this cannot be underestimated. His kind, generous nature has also enabled strong, enduring relationships to be established across a range of stakeholders and landowners. He has rightly gained huge respect and mana.”

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WWW.HUSQVARNA.COM The Honda Shop 07 823 5522 Action Equipment 07 578 2263 Peter Glidden Honda 07 828 9687 Peter Glidden 07 889 6550 King Country Honda 07 877 8054 The Honda Shop Putaruru 07 883 3310 The Tool Shed 07 895 8582 Te Aroha Tractors & Garden Machinery 07 884 9901 Lawnmowers & Chainsaw Centre 07 871 8838

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

NovEMbER 2020

ADVERTORIAL

Embrace your lifestyle With the end of 2020 in sight, it is a time for reflection of what can be described as a year like no other when anti-virus lockdowns proved challenging for lots of different people for many different reasons. Bulk Fertiliser Spreading Mini Spreader Available Book your upcoming spreading requirements now

For all your lime and fertiliser needs Obligation Free Quotes Steve 027 487 8981 | Grant 027 220 2010

RD 4 Cambridge

Massey Ferguson GC1700

For those of us living on lifestyle blocks, we were grateful for our wideopen spaces and our slightly more isolated way of life. One positive take away from the lockdown restrictions was that it provided the perfect opportunity to tackle some of the never-ending jobs that go hand in hand with living on a lifestyle or small farm block. At Waikato Tractors, we recognise that small farms have big jobs too, so we offer a range of compact tractor and ride-on mower solutions to suit your lifestyle needs. Massey Ferguson’s GC Series compact tractors are the perfect all-round machines for tackling your

• Septic tanks • Grease traps • Portaloos • Interceptors

Plus, if you purchase any Massey Ferguson tractor before the end of 2020, you automatically go into the draw to win a Surtees 495 Workmate boat. So check out our website or call one of the team at Waikato Tractors today for a no-obligation chat and see how one of these sturdy workhorses can keep your lifestyle from turning into a life sentence. Maybe even get you cruising away in your very own bright red boat. How’s that for better work-life balance?

Wear a helmet. A helmet is a must while riding a quad bike around the farm.

24/7 BUY A TRACTOR FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A BOAT. SHIP YEAH!

Number one with your number two’s since 1975! Wishing you all a Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year!

0800 61 32 32

A world of experience. Working with you.

Thanks to:

Email: info@hecton.co.nz Visit our website www.hecton.co.nz for a full list of products

SHEEP HANDLER AND LEAD UP RACE • Fastest handler on the market • Ideal for dagging, crutching & foot trimming

HECTON WEIGH CRATE Capable of: • Weighing • Drafting • Dagging • Mouthing • Ear Tagging • Capsuling

MF GC1700 WITH LOADER AND MOWER DECK

FROM

$20,990

23 & 25 horsepower engines with high torque transmission.

CONTACT ONE OF THE WAIKATO TRACTORS TEAM TODAY!

Kahikatea Drive, Hamilton Call in & see us | 73 Preston Street | Invercargill | Phone: 03 215 8558

* PLUS GST

*Orders must be by placed by 24/12/2020 and installed by 31/12/2020 for boat entires. Offer ends 31/12/2020, or strictly while stocks last. Limited Stock available at these prices, spec may differ from images shown, Ts & Cs apply. Contact us for full details.

We service…

everyday jobs. Whether you’re a farmer, lifestyle block owner or commercial operator, the MF GC1700 Series is designed and engineered to help you get a wide variety of jobs done with ease. With engines ranging up to 25 horsepower and unmatched versatility, the MF GC1700 Series can handle everything from mowing, loading, general farm work, landscaping jobs and more. These easy-to-drive workhorses deliver powerful performance in a compact-sized machine. If your workload demands a real tractor, check out the MF GC1700 Series. It delivers on every job, every time.

0800 843 723

waikatotractors.co.nz

John Metcalfe 0274960093 | Neil Lawrence 0276540913 | David Williams 0273020080 | Ben Peters 0272431750

NovEMbER 2020 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

Rural Careers Day established

The Ford Ranger New Zealand Rural Games has been extended to include a Rural Careers Day on Friday, March 12 2021 in Palmerston North. “The unprecedented demand for people to take on jobs and careers in the rural sector across Aotearoa is what has spurred the trust to set up and run the New Zealand Rural Careers Day,” says New Zealand Rural Games Trust chair, Margaret Kouvelis MNZM. “Before Covid-19, there was a lot of demand for staff across rural New Zealand. Today, that situation is exacerbated, causing wages across the sector to rise. We have a once in a generation chance to encourage our young people into careers in rural areas which, in turn, will help bring vibrancy back to the small towns and settlements across our country.” Mrs Kouvelis said the day would have a heavy focus on industry bodies. “The people who work with people working in the fields, sheds, gardens, orchards and forests. “They know first-hand the opportunities that are there and the amazingly rewarding lifestyle that you get from living in rural New Zealand.

“We have seen wages across the rural sector rising faster than we have seen in decades, and many young people are simply not aware of the opportunities available.” New Zealand Rural Games Founder Steve Hollander said he is super excited to bring the Careers Day to the New Zealand Rural Games stable of events. “We are proudly rural and supportive of closing the urban-rural gap, and this event will help us achieve that. Rural New Zealand is on the rise again, and we’re focussed on ensuring young people from urban areas get to understand the opportunities and the unbeatable lifestyle that you can afford in our towns and settlements across the country.” The New Zealand Rural Careers Day runs from 9 am to 1 pm on March 12 in The Square, Palmerston North. The event runs alongside the Clash of the Colleges. Teams from 15 secondary schools across the mid and lower North Island compete in rural tasks to take

The Forestry Careers Bus at the NZ Rural Games earlier this year

home bragging rights in the juniors’ and seniors’ sections. Alongside that is the STIHL Timbersports Ladies and Rookie Championships and the New Zealand Rural Games Golf Cup. That night is the Norwood New Zealand Rural Sports Awards, and on the Saturday and Sunday is the Ford Ranger New Zealand Rural Games.

The New Zealand Rural Careers Day will host the New Zealand Arborist Association, Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand, New Zealand Shearing Association, UCOL. Beef and Lamb, DairyNZ, HortNZ, Southern North Island Forestry Association, Talent Central and ACG Training. Registrations close on December 11 2020. Email info@ruralgames.co.nz.

Christmas Messages S U P P O R T I N G R U R A L M E N TA L H E A LT H

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Wholesale Nursery & Planting

Ph: 021 366 480

www.nznativeflora.co.nz

Phone 07 843 7237 Kahikatea Drive, Hamilton CLOSED: Statutory Holidays

Report rook sightings Farmers are being asked to keep an eye out for wary, destructive rooks as they are farm pests.

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

NovEMbER 2020

ADVERTORIAL

Cartilage loss by John Arts

Osteoarthritis is all about loss of cartilage, subsequent inflammation and changes to bone and joint structure.

The farming community are being asked to report rook sightings to the Waikato Regional Council

Rooks have abandoned nests that have been rung in by landowners for control by Waikato Regional Council. The council is again asking landowners to report rook sightings for targeted pest control to prevent the wary, invasive, big black bird from becoming a problem on farms. After requesting rook sightings in September this year, right on breeding season, seven rookeries were reported to the council. Waikato Regional Council biosecurity officer Andrew McConnell says five of those rookeries had since been abandoned. He was keen to hear if any landowners had seen any newcomers on their property in the last few weeks. The two other rookeries received control. “The season seems to be later this year, so there is a chance they still may breed,” he said. “Breeding season is a good time to start seeing rooks as it is when they congregate together. In the Waikato, rook populations are found in Te Poi/ Matamata, Cambridge/Hamilton and Mangakino to Taupo, with rooks generally building nests in pine or eucalyptus trees.” Rooks are one of the most destructive farm production pest birds in the world.

“They feed on newly sown crops and destroy paddocks by tearing them up in search of grubs. A large rook population can completely destroy entire paddocks. It is definitely not something we want to be seeing here in our region.” Rooks were introduced to New Zealand in the 1860s to control insect pests. The largest colony found in New Zealand was nearly 1,000 nests but, thanks to control, such groupings are a thing of the past. The regional council has been managing rooks since 2002, and the Waikato population is now estimated at less than 50 birds. “It is a bit like looking for a needle in a haystack for them, which is why we need landowners to give us a call when they see rooks. They are also very wary. So it is important that landowners contact us if they see them rather than try to get rid of them themselves. We don’t want to scare them because it becomes tricky locating rooks once they have been spooked. “Last year, five rookeries were found and controlled. Three were in Mangakino and two in Matamata. A rookery in Hamilton was destroyed by a storm and abandoned.”

The result is pain and loss of mobility. The ends of bones such as the femur are covered in tough, flexible articular cartilage. It may surprise that despite its tough appearance and texture, it is 80% water, which acts like a shock absorber. Cartilage is a combination of living cells, the matrix they produce, plus water. These specialised cells are called chondrocytes, and their job is to secrete and maintain cartilage. They repair small amounts of damage as it occurs. Osteoarthritis starts when chondrocyte cells die, causing the cartilage to breakdown. While there are several things that can damage chondrocytes, in most cases these are a combination of free radical damage from insufficient antioxidants and biochemical changes caused by trauma to the joint. While the triggers vary, the outcome is chondrocyte death and cartilage loss. It is then followed by unwanted inflammation in the joint capsule that further damages cartilage. Eventually, the bone itself becomes compromised,

and the net result is more pain and restricted mobility. Nutritional therapy can help, especially in reducing inflammation, slowing the rate of cartilage loss and improving the function of existing cartilage. For example, therapeutic levels (800+ mg) of chondroitin can have significant effects on the health of chondrocytes and therefore, cartilage protection and repair. Glucosamine also helps maintain cartilage while curcumin from turmeric helps reduce inflammation and fluid accumulation. An ex-builder contacted me two years ago with significant knee pain from advanced osteoarthritis. An orthopaedic specialist had recommended knee replacement. Two years on a personalised joint health programme and he now has very little pain and no longer needs surgery. John Arts (B.Soc.Sci, Dip Tch, Adv. Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on 0800 423 559 or email john@abundant.co.nz. Join his all-new newsletter at abundant.co.nz.

Abundant Health Bettaflex Super Joint Formula New What is Bettaflex?

enhanced formula

∙ Bettaflex is a joint support formula to promote healthy joint cartilage function. ∙ Bettaflex combines high grade chondroitin sulphate, glucosamine sulphate and a potent 95% Curcumin (turmeric) extract. ∙ New Bettaflex (per cap) has 400mg of high grade chrondroitin 400mg of glucosamine and 100mg of rapid absorption 95% Curcumin.

How can Bettaflex help?

∙ Chondroitin and glucosamine are building blocks of cartilage. $89.95 for 3 bottles ∙ Supplementation with correct levels can support healthy cartilage function and cartilage repair processes. free freight or 1 bottle for $32.95 ∙ Curcumin from turmeric helps to balance immune function to support joint health. plus $4.99 postage ∙ Research indicates that chondroitin is highly effective at 800mg daily.

BEST BUY!

John Arts comments: “My latest Bettaflex formula with more chondroitin and over double the Curcumin is based on the latest research into joint-support compounds. The normal dose is 2 daily but I recommend a double dose for 1-3 bottles to saturate joint tissue.”

GREAT FUN FOR THE FAMILY

John Arts, Founder, Abundant Health Ltd

Abundant Health

Cautions: Do not take with anti-coagulant/platelet medication. If in doubt please consult your healthcare professional. Not suitable during pregnancy or lactation.

TO ORDER PHONE: 0800 423 559

Or order online at www.abundant.co.nz or post a cheque to Abundant Health Ltd, PO Box 4347, Mt Maunganui South, 3149

PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SEE OUR LATEST MODELS NOW AVAILABLE! Phone Bryce 027 273 1429 – Jan 027 480 7611

DRIVE SAFE On Rural Roads

YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT’S AROUND THE CORNER

NovEMbER 2020 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

0800 Sunshade ............................................................ 021 038 4394 Abundant Health Ltd ...................................................... 0800 423 559 Action Equipment ............................................................ 07 578 2263 Ag Parts NZ ............................................ 07 889 7107/021 070 7081 Agrowquip - Cambridge .................................................... 07 827 5184 Agrowquip - Hamilton ....................................................... 07 847 0425 All Terrain Chipping ........................................................ 021 208 6445 Allens United Drainage & Earthworks Ltd .. 07 957 9136/027 622 6277 Autotrimmers Matamata .................................................. 07 888 5484 Bailey Ingham Ltd .................................... 0800 482 928/07 873 7325 Bax Contractors Ltd ....................................................... 027 495 3108 Bay Mulching ................................................................ 027 497 4061 Bedpost Te Rapa ............................................................. 07 850 5272 Blackwood Yamaha ......................................................... 07 827 7066 Bo & Co Electrical ......................................................... 027 202 1440 Bowe Spreading .................................... 0274 878 981/027 220 2010 Branderson Homes Ltd .................................................... 07 827 3901 Briggs & Stratton NZ Ltd ................................................ 0800 274 447 Coby Manufacturing 1984 Ltd .......................................... 07 849 1765 Complete Engineering & Hydraulics................................... 07 847 1514 Container Co ................................................................. 0508 732 873 Cross Country Limited ................................................. 0800 847 2052 D W Earthmoving Ltd ............................... 027 477 9662/021 350 028 Dairy Diner - Secure Covers ............................................ 0800 304 030 Dave Rowe Painter & Decorator ................ 07 873 9104/027 290 8776 Ebbett Holden Hamilton ................................................... 07 838 0949 EcoWorld Ltd................................................................. 0800 109 202 Effluent Pumping Services ..................... 0800 111 690/027 217 6779 Fergusson Lockwood & Associates ................................. 0800 922 122 Forme Consulting Group Ltd ............................................. 04 232 7155 Go Karts Direct ..................................... 027 273 1429/027 480 7611 Goldsmiths Gallery .................................... 07 838 3418/07 852 5341 Green Jersey Explorer Tours ............................................. 06 306 6027 Helisika Agricultural ....................................................... 0508 435 424 Henrys Septic Tank Service ........................................... 0800 61 32 32 High Country Journeys ............................. 03 444 9703/027 228 8152 King Country Honda ......................................................... 07 877 8054 Kiwitahi Maize Growers .......................... 027 472 2737/027 241 4148 Kiwitown Electrical................................... 07 873 7895/029 770 3959 Kliptank Ltd .................................................................. 0800 255 222 Lawnmowers & Chainsaw Centre ...................................... 07 871 8838 Les Harrison Transport Limited ......................................... 07 847 2074 Lockwood Group............................................................ 0508 562 596 Machinetek Limited - Cooltek ........................................... 09 633 0071 Matthews Optometrists ................................................... 07 871 7741 Mega Fluid Solutions ....................................................... 07 846 6260 Northland Agricultural Field Days ...................................... 09 439 8998 NZ Paint Company ..................................................... 0800 5036 8476 P F Olsen Ltd .............................................................. 0508 736 5736 Peter Glidden Honda.................................. 07 828 9687/07 889 6550 Professional Harvesting Systems NZ Ltd . 027 497 6203/027 241 4700 Rainbow Septic Tank Cleaners Ltd ............ 07 378 8777/027 473 3861 Scary Sharp and SIS Ballock .......................................... 0800 175 720 Schwitzer Contracting .................................................... 029 823 5074 Shades Direct Waikato........................... 0800 742 337/027 483 4947 Smartway Security Services Ltd ...................................... 0800 936 363 South Waikato Garage Doors.................... 07 888 8715/0274 960 715 Te Aroha Tractors & Garden Machinery .............................. 07 887 9901 The Honda Shop - Cambridge ..................... 07 823 5522/07 883 3310 The Old Villa Dental Group ............................................. 0800 697 697 The Tool Shed ................................................................. 07 895 8582 The Water Sprinkler Shop ............................................... 0800 277 594 Tuatara Machinery Limited ....................... 03 347 4956/027 477 0070 Urban Homes .............................................................. 0800 698 7226 Waikato Tractors Limited ................................................ 0800 843 723 Winter Gardenz ............................................................. 0800 946 837 ZTR Mowers Ltd .............................................................. 07 543 2700

CYCLE HIDDEN NORTH ISLAND BACKROADS AND BEACHES Extraordinary accommodation, amazing food and service. Ebikes or regular bikes.

www.greenjersey.co.nz 021 074 6640 tours@greenjersey.co.nz

Robust mowers from 41” to 72” cut. Made in USA since 1969.

First to finish. Built to last. Call for a demonstration today.

ZTR Mowers

•

07 543 2700

•

www.ztr.co.nz

Jet

PP 02/03/20 NFD

QUICK INDEX

NovEMbER 2020

NovEMbER 2020 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

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ATTENTION SEPTIC TANK OWNERS FOREST HARVESTING & MARKETING SOLUTIONS

Septi-CureTM is:      

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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

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027 497 6203 027 241 4700

greg.bell@phs.co.nz craig.peters@phs.co.nz

www.phs.co.nz

www.ecoworld.co.nz

New Zealand Made Greenhouses Designed and Manufactured right here in New Zealand, our greenhouses are built to last.

TIME TO SHARPEN UP THE MILKING SHED TRY OUR NON-TOXIC, HARD WEARING DAIRYCOAT AN EASY SINGLE POT PAINT FORMULATION.

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BUY ONLINE AT WWW.NZPAINT.CO.NZ OR CALL US ON 0800 50 36 84 76 TO PLACE AN ORDER. DELIVERED TO YOUR DOORSTEP FREE OF CHARGE

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150/HR WIND RATING

(WHITE, BLACK OR THE COLOUR OF YOUR CHOICE).

PROUDLY NZ MADE

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

NovEMbER 2020

ADVERTORIAL

Plan now for Northland Field Days The next Northland Field Days, which is held annually in Dargaville is confirmed for March 4 to 6 next year. Exhibitors are now able to register for site/s by going to our website northlandfielddays. co.nz and navigating to the 2021 Exhibitor Registration Form.

Our team of call out technicians are ready 24/7 to help you get back into action and for any maintenance requirements you may have.

“We don’t see problems, we see solutions.” 29 West Street Hamilton 07 846 6260 admin@megafluid.co.nz

It is the largest annual event in Northland, which can host 450-plus exhibitors while visitor numbers during the three days range between 20,000– 25,000. We are well-known for being the ‘friendly field days’. That is due to the organisation working hard to maintain a friendly, helpful and relaxed atmosphere from the moment an exhibitor registers right through to the end of the event when they drive out the gates to go home. While still retaining the traditional field days atmosphere, we provide a quality venue that ensures a comfortable environment for exhibitors and the

visiting general public. There are a variety of indoor and outdoor sites available, and our site fees are probably the cheapest in the country for this type of event. Indoor site fees range from $390 to $555 each site, while outdoor site fees range from $440 to $1,050 for the whole three days. With the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic firmly in the organiser’s minds, when planning for 2021, the committee anticipated a decline in exhibitor numbers. However, the high number of registrations to date is a definite indication that exhibitors are

keen to get back to attending events! Should this event be cancelled for reasons directly relating to Covid-19, the committee assures all exhibitors that their paid site fees will be fully refunded. We’ve still got some sites available so don’t miss out. Get in and register online or call/email our office with any questions that you may have. All contact details are on our advert above.

T, WORK, P EA , L Y

EVERYTHING HYDRAULIC

THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING LOCAL

TIRED OF HIGH FARM

VEHICLE COSTS?

Effluent Pumping Services

IT’S TIME TO GO YAMAHA.

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OR T

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ANNUAL REPAYMENTS ONLY

AG125

VIKING EPS

3,999

+ GST

KODIAK 700 EPS

19,447 + GST

14,173

+ GST

FIND YOUR LOCAL DEALER AT:

www.yamaha-motor.co.nz

DON’T MISS OUT ON EXHIBITING AT THE

LARGEST AGRICULTURAL EVENT IN NORTHLAND! info@northlandfielddays.co.nz PH: 09 439 8998 www.northlandfielddays.co.nz

Promotion available between 1/11/20 to 31/12/20 on new farm vehicles (AG125, AG200, TTR230/A, TW200, YFM350FA, YFM450FB, YFM450FB/P, YFM700FA, YFM700FB/P, YXC700P, YXE850PBL, YXE850PK, YXF850, YXM700), through participating authorised Yamaha dealers while stocks last. Offer available for specified models, and warranty registered on or before 31/12/20. *FINANCE DISCLAIMER: Zero deposit; zero repayments for the first 12 months and 4.95% p.a. fixed interest rate on a 36 month loan term. Asset backed commercial applicants only with NZBN registered for minimum of 1 year. Maximum amount financed is $35,000 and applies to AG125, AG200, TTR230/A, TW200, YFM350FA, YFM450FB, YFM450FB/P, YFM700FA, YFM700FB/P, YXC700P, YXE850PBL, YXE850PK, YXF850, YXM700. Offer available from November 1, 2020 to December 31, 2020 with final settlement date of January 31, 2021. Credit criteria, fees, charges and conditions apply including an application fee of $325, $10 PPSR fee and a dealer administration fee. Finance to approved applicants by Yamaha Motor Finance New Zealand Ltd. (YMF) NZBN 9429036270798 FSP 9622. At participating Yamaha dealerships while stocks last. Information provided is general only and does not take into account your particular objectives, financial situation and needs. **INSURANCE DISCLAIMER: Information provided is general only and does not take into account your particular objectives, financial situation and needs. Please read the Policy Wording available at www.yminz.co.nz before you make any decisions regarding this product. Insurance is underwritten by underwriters at Lloyd’s of London acting through its agent Yamaha Motor Insurance New Zealand Ltd (YMINZ) NZBN 9429045857638 FSP 556706.

Bottom of the hill

Albert St, Cambridge www.blackwoodyamaha.co.nz |

Ph 07 827 7066

Mob 027 493 2076

NovEMbER 2020 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

WE OFFER A LARGE RANGE OF FARM EQUIPMENT AND LIGHT CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY Cross Country Ltd imports and distributes products for farms, contractors, lifestyle and the mining and construction industries. We also manufacture many products to suit your exact needs. Cross Country was founded In the Waikato in 2004 starting from a small beginning to now occupying 2000 square metres and employing 5 people. All our products are brand new and carry warranties We start, run and check every product before it gets delivered to you.

Spike / Chain Harrows - 1600mm

$595

Sprayer Towable -Turf Mate 325 Litre - 4 Stroke 6.5HP DEK Petrol Engine And W30 Pump- NZ Made Trailer

$3,990

DEK Diesel Powered Waterblaster 3000psi. Petrol Waterblaster available too.

DEK Wood Chipper 15hp Electric Start

DEK 12hp HP Piston Diesel Water Pump - W120

DEK 22 Ton Log Splitter - 6.5hp Petrol Engine. Up to 35 ton model available.

Fertiliser Spreader - 170kg

GS-38 Framed 4-Stroke

$2,750

$995

$595

Sea Flo 100L ATV Sprayer

8KVA Diesel Generator 8000CLE

$335

$1,695

Turf Mate 225L Trailer Sprayer 4-Stroke

$2,295

$4,950

$1,895

$2,095

Many items are designed and assembled in our premises by our fully qualified mechanics. 12 Months Mechanical Warranty on all our products.

Monday-Friday 8.30am-5.00pm

38 Acheron Drive, Riccarton, Christchurch 8A Karewa Place Pukete, Te Rapa, Hamilton

0800 847 2052

shane@crosscountry.co.nz | www.crosscountry.co.nz

Quarantine pressure effects Federated Farmers say serious gaps in the agricultural contracting workforce have consequences such as animal feed shortages and risks to getting arable crops in next summer. “After favourable rain in many parts of the North Island in the last month, there is a big emphasis on making grass silage to help cope if predicted droughts take hold,” says Federated Farmers employment spokesperson, Chris Lewis. “There is so much work out there and not nearly enough operators.” Federated Farmers is deeply concerned by a statement from Rural Contractors New Zealand that a lack of spaces in Managed Isolation Quarantine facilities. That is thwarting the governmentsanctioned flow of a limited number of foreign skilled agricultural machinery operators into the country. “Farmers applauded the government for its decision in September to allow in 210 of these operators, most of them from Ireland and the UK, even though twice that number were needed to meet seasonal demand. “We are really dismayed to learn only 58 have arrived to be either in MIQ or working, with 16 more with flights booked and holding MIQ vouchers. Another 61 still overseas cannot confirm places in MIQ facilities, and won’t arrive until mid-February — if then.” Federated Farmers reported recently that some South Island farmers were getting silage/baleage cut in wet conditions. It is out of desperation and fear that if they didn’t make use of

contractors when they were available, there would be no-one available later on. Others were working extremely long hours and pushing the boundaries of safe operation. Feds Dairy chair Wayne Langford said these sorts of decisions ultimately affected on-farm profitability, some of which are seen immediately and the rest later in the season when poorer quality feed is fed to animals. Arable chair Colin Hurst said traditionally the silage/baleage contracting workforce moved on to harvesting grain from mid-January. Operator delays or shortages could have a big impact. “Farming is often all about the weather; timeliness is important, and you seize your chances when the weather plays ball. Workforce gaps will just have a domino effect all over the place.” Chris Lewis acknowledged the government has all sorts of competing demands to balance, not least finding security and health staff to run MIQ facilities. “With no international tourism, surely there is no shortage of hotel space. We can only ask that the authorities do their utmost to expand MIQ space and allocate vouchers according to the best interests of our wider economy,” he said.

WOOD LOTS, FORESTRY, SMALL HECTARE LOTS, WANTED NOW! CLEARING LAND TO MAKE IT MORE PRODUCTIVE?

YOU NEED SCHWITZER!

• Shredder • 24 tonne Digger • Stump Grinding • Wood Lot Logging • Full Tree Removals

Call Karl Schwitzer (07) 823 5074 or 029 823 5074 | www.schwitzercontracting.co.nz

SEPTIC TANK CLEANERS LIMITED For the cleaning of Septic Tanks, Grease Traps, Interceptors, Holding Ponds, Sumps and removal of all hazard/non hazard wastewater.

CALL US TODAY

Maximise your cooling efficiency Machinetech has been supplying cooling towers to various industries for more than 20 years, and farm dairy sheds for about 15 years. The towers, by evaporative cooling, are about the cheapest way of taking the heat out of water. Running a small fan motor, moving huge volumes of air against sprayed water running down the corrugations bring the water temperature down to the ambient air temperature in one single pass. In milking sheds, after the water has been through the plate cooler, it is sent to the wash down tank until full and then through the tower and back to the storage tank. A downsized ice bank or chiller system is then used to reduce the water temperature to five or six degrees Celsius to get the milk down to six degrees Celsius or less. The cooling tower is large but affordable to buy and operate. It will enable the chiller system to be smaller or used less, saving purchase or replacement costs, maintenance costs and actual running costs. Often, water from other sources such as town or river supply is run through

the tower before being introduced to the cold water storage tank. During the night, when the air is at its coolest, the water is circulated through the cooling tower back to the tank so that you can start your milking session with pre-cooled water. Winter is even better, with a lower air temperature, as the water can be down to less than 10C to start with. These towers enable your water to be recirculated to save water usage and have proven themselves with many operators who have multiple dairy sheds installing a tower at each site. One having won awards for his energy and environmental efficiency. A range of cooling towers is available ex-stock. Typical dairy purchase prices range from $2,600 to $8,000 plus GST. Phone us at Cooltek 09 633 0071 for pricing. You may be pleasantly surprised. Email info@machinetech. co.nz or visit cooltek.co.nz.

Cooltek Ltd

IMPORTERS OF COOLING EQUIPMENT Phone (09) 633 0071 www.c ooltek.co.nz info@machinetech.co.nz Cooltek Ltd - a division of Machinetech Ltd

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NovEMbER 2020

ADVERTORIAL

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COOLING TOWERS CHEAPEST and MOST EFFICIENT

method of taking the heat out of water. Heat rejection 36+kW From $2,600

+GST.

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Phone: 027 473 3861 or 07 378 8777

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DRAINAGE

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EXCELLENCE CONTRACTORS BY EXPERIENCE Bax Contractors is a well established tree removal business working throughout the greater Waikato and Bay of Plenty region for the past 35 years. We are able to offer a solution for even the most difficult sites or trees.

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Why are Secure Covers the ultimate? Simple: • Labour saving – takes only a fraction of the time to complete a stack compared to using tyres. • Protection – eliminates damage from birds & stock, and due to no tyres, minimises rodent problems. • Quality – near perfect silage is produced due to the perimeter sealing ability of the Gravel bags. • No Tyres – yes, no more tyres!!!! • 7 year UV guarantee

WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

NovEMbER 2020

ADVERTORIAL

Ebbett Group take over Isuzu in Hamilton Under a deal between the Ebbett Group and Winger Hamilton Ebbett has now taken on the Isuzu brand in Hamilton. SEE OUR ADVERT ON THE FRONT PAGE

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An architect’s depiction of the new dealership building in Te Rapa

Ebbett, one of New Zealand’s largest dealership groups, is delighted to have secured the deal with Winger Hamilton as they continue preparations for the launch of their new premises in Te Rapa. “Bringing Isuzu to the Ebbett Group in Hamilton is a very exciting prospect for us,” said the group’s managing director, Ben van den Engel. “It’s a strong brand, particularly well represented by the D-Max Ute and it’s going to be a very valuable addition to our new dealership. Our customers know that new Colorado sales finish this year when General Motors pull out of New Zealand, by bringing in Isuzu we can now offer them the perfect alternative.

“Ebbett and Winger Hamilton have a good relationship that spans over 30 years, and this deal ultimately suits Isuzu, Winger Hamilton and ourselves so I think we are all happy to get it done.” Paul Burborough, dealer principal of Isuzu at Winger Group, said: “Isuzu is a really good brand, but we feel we have a lot of other opportunities to pursue at the moment. So it’s the right time to let it go and allow us to focus elsewhere in the business. We wish both Isuzu and Ebbett all the best for the future along with our loyal Isuzu customers that have supported us over the last eight years.” The new Ebbett dealership in Te Rapa will feature GMSV (General Motors

Speciality Vehicles) Seat, Cupra and a large used vehicle operation in addition to the Isuzu brand and the continuing parts and service operations for Holden. The new site will also benefit from a full paint and panel shop along with a large tyre shop independently owned and operated. The full automotive development is due to open early 2021 next year.

• Professional service “guaranteed” • Reputable products • Local knowledge • Great advice Contact Gary Ph:07 888-8715, 0274 960 715 enquiry@swgd.co.nz

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ContainerCo. A world of possibilities.

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WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

NovEMbER 2020

STUMPCHIPPING & MULCHING ADD ROOM, SPACE, AND VALUE TO YOUR HOME

Specialised 450hp stumpchipper/forestry mulcher • 20 ton excavator with rake • Specialising in cutover pine stump removal • All aspects of stumpchipping and heavy mulching

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MIKE TOLLEY | Owner/Operator | 021 208 6445

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0800 SHADES

WAIKATO RURAL MARKETPLACE Central Motors

We are open Tuesday to Sunday 8am to 3pm www.absolutecoffee.cafe 88 Alpha St, Cambridge | Phone: 07 827 5515

8272

 07 883 8 Mobiles Taupiri Street. PO Box 217 Te Kuiti. 5656 Taupiri Street Brodie 8343027 459 0000 PO Box 217 Phone Te Kuiti 07 878 Mobile Brodie 027Keat 459027 0000 291 6692 Phone 07 878 8343

Waikato’s Gas Guys QUICK TURN AROUND!

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• 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

7-9 Neal St, Putaruru

Waikato CLASSIFIEDS Reach 30,000 Rural Homes • Phone 0800 466 793

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.

For Sale 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).

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NovEMbER 2020 WAIKATO FARMING LIFESTYLES

THE ONYX COLLECTION NEW FROM URBAN HOMES Experience the latest in design inspiration with the launch of The Onyx Collection. Through pages filled with inspirational design options, experience modern architecture the Urban Homes way.

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