August 2010 by Pete's web sites

www.rurallifestyle.co.nz

Issue 35

August 2010

Milking Free Energy

Dairy Farm Case Study page 17

Plus...

The Chook Report page 3 Interior Design - material sustainability page 10 Local History – Federated Farmers and Rural Women page 6 Landscape Design – Native Revegetation page 15 Stock Management – The need for feed page 20

Visit us online at www.rurallifestyle.co.nz

editorial

Firstly, welcome to our new readers. You may not have seen a copy of Rodney’s Rural Lifestyle until now, but as we’ve been quietly growing in popularity over the last 3 years we decided to expand a little. The content is usually a mix of practical information and human interest stories for both farmers and lifestylers given the diverse range of landowner across Rodney. I hope you enjoy the read. There has been a lot written on the topic of Sustainability and I’ve found myself joining in after talking with Victoria McAnulty about interior design. There are some very innovative solutions that can make our living environments a little safer and healthier and we aim to bring you more on the topic in a future issue. So do please let us know your feedback on the topic. Sustainability is of course the reason for the ETS and with energy prices on the way up as a result it seems to dove-tail nicely with our feature case

study on a solar hot water heating installation at Lachlan McKenzie’s dairy farm in Rotorua. On a charitable note, if you have an interest in owning a working farm dog, but would never find the time to train one (or train another), I have the perfect solution for you. Huntaway crosses Max and Reuben seem ideal candidates as they have both been rescued from working farms and seem well trained. They both need homes – no, not together – either with families or as a good ol’ mate for a retired farmer. They’re about 6 or 7 and great with other pets. Give Julie a call at the Keira Shelter on 09 4300402 and she’ll send you all the details. We would also like to hear about your favourite recipes – especially for locally grown, fished or harvested produce. With Whitebait season opening on 15 August there must be some great recipes for us to feature? The writers of published recipes will receive with a $50 voucher. This month’s sponsor is the Farm &

Lifestyle Centre in Warkworth. Thanks for your excellent feedback on our stories last month. And do remember to keep up the mention of where you saw our sponsors’ adverts – if it weren’t for their advertising dollar none of this would get into print.

Neville Walker – Editor & Publisher ral es to Rodney’s Ru Letters or enquiri 1, keting Ltd, RD Lifestyle, RD Mar . one 09 420 4660 Ph a. Kaukapakap z .n co le. ty es rallif 54-946 Email: neville@ru ne Brown 021-8 iries: Marle Advertising enqu le ©2010. All rights reserved.

Lifesty of the Rodney’s Rural hout permission in any form wit cepted for any Reproduction responsibility ac No . ited hib pro ance on publisher is arising from reli t consequences Editor: Neville le. sty direct or indirec Life ral hin Rodney’s Ru s issue: any content wit rtin. Writers thi itor: Helen Ma rtin, Grant Ma Walker. Sub Ed len He , ulty , Victoria McAn nhouse, Lynnette Third signer: Dan Ste ville Walker. De McKechnie, Ne nt. Pri ing: Alliance Bgraphix. Print

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED WITH A REPUTATION FOR QUALITY PRODUCTS, COMPETITIVE PRICES AND COMMITMENT TO CUSTOMER SERVICE. MILLED FROM HIGH DENSITY NORTHLAND RADIATA PINE

WE DELIVER from South Auckland to Cape Reinga DIRECT

NATURALLY AIR DRIED FOR STRENGTH

from the mill to your door

Fencing • Retaining • Decking • Landscaping • Gates & Hardware

09 431 2855

Call us on Ph for a quote or pay a visit to the mill for friendly advice

Phone, Fax or Email your ORDER DIRECT

Fully Accredited Licensee of the New Zealand Timber Preservation Council. Schiska Rd, Topuni, SH1, 10 Min North of Wellsford. Fax: 09 431 2856. Email: sales@topunitimber.co.nz. Mon-Fri 7am-5pm, Sat 8am -1pm Topuni Timber Products are Treated and Guaranteed to NZS3640 with commitment to Environmental Safety.

RURAL LIFESTYLE ISSUE 35

LIFESTYLE

Recipe

of the month Do you suffer from an embarrassment of lemons over winter? One cheap and very delicious way of turning surfeit into sustenance is to simply adapt the Edmonds marmalade recipe by replacing the grapefruit with lemons. (Home made lime marmalade is also great). Another surfeit solution is Lemon Confit (preserved lemon). By Helen Martin

THE ChOOK REPORT We buy a water pistol from the $2 shop. The shop assistant cheerily asks if it’s for my grandson and I do feel a bit silly explaining it’s to shoot our naughty rooster. Anyway, Zeus is unfazed by the pistol, which falls to bits after two shots, so we solemnly contemplate Plan B. When we broach the issue the vet shrieks “Aaaargh, roosters!!” covers her ears and rushes from the room.

The other vet appears and tells us horror stories about the rampages of a rooster from his childhood, rampages that are still burned into his brain as though they happened yesterday. It all sounds grimly familiar. Our

New Homes in Millwater esplanade 237

Ingredients 1 kilogram of salt 12 lemons

Method Thickly cover the bottom of an earthenware or plastic container with salt. Halve the lemons and place them in the container, covering them with salt as you go. When all the lemons are in the container they should be completely submerged. Put a lid on the container and store in a dark place for at least a month. The lemons will keep indefinitely and can be used as needed. Use North African and Middle Eastern cuisines use preserved lemon rind as seasoning in casseroles, curries and sauces. It can be used with any meats and with fish. Remove as many lemons as you need for your ESPLANADE dish,237 rinse off the salt, remove the flesh and chop or mince the rind. INTERNAL 102.4m² GARAGE 37.4m² When you use it uncooked (for PORTICO 2.5m² UPPER FLOOR 94.6m² example in TOTAL 236.9m²a salad), blanch it to remove the excess salt. designs

Winner of Regional Award and National Finalist

Call now for a new broChure Stand ARTIST'S on tHe Sec tionS and See for yourSelf! IMPRESSION - LANDSCAPING FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY

KITCHEN

PTY

LIVING

FAMILY

meals

ROBE

Come and see for yourself, visit our site on Portland Park Road or call our friendly team for more information. Paul: Stonewood Homes offer features that 021 270 5041 no other housing companies offer as standard. BED 1

BED 2

OPTIONAL FIREPLACE

LINEN

ROBE

PH 0800 86 00 00 www.stonewood.co.nz FOYER

VOID

DINE

BED 4

4 2 1 1 1 1 2

Send us a favourite recipe you make from your home produce. Each month we’ll select one for publication and reward the sender with a $50 shopping voucher (this month from Farm & Lifestyle Centre Warkworth). Date 30-11-06

ROBE

PWD

ENSUITE

STUDY

BATH PORTICO

LAUNDRY

BED 3

ROBE

Stonewood Homes has two wonderful house and land packages 14 800 available in Millwater, the new subdivision nestled in the northern gateway between Silverdale and Orewa. These amazing house and land packages are on flat sites and have beautiful protected sea views. Prices start at just $750,000.

bedroom/s: bathroom/s: study: w/c: living: family: dining:

THESE ARE CONCEPT DRAWINGS ONLY, FINAL WORKING DRAWINGS MAY DIFFER

RURAL LIFESTYLE ISSUE 35

mad? they bleat. Molly’s not mad, just full of the joys of living, her chief joy being chook chasing. Barry and Lily are not pleased and even Zeus trembles when Molly scampers into view. The best bit is that the Normas seem to enjoy it, turning it into a game of peck and nip, which they often win. We’re at the point now where the Normas actually seek Molly out, turning up at the door and asking if she can come and play.

High Noon.

question is, “Should we send Zeus to the great farmyard in the sky?” After carefully explaining the anatomical shortcomings of roosters and why you can’t castrate them, the vet offers a cheap euthanasia deal, but counsels caution. After all, Zeus is just doing what roosters do. Back home I look the offender in the eye and relent. He is a gorgeous creature after all, and all he needs is love. Announcing to my doubting family that Zeus is to be spared, I embark on a charm offensive. This consists of hand feeding him - pellets, mostly, but also bread, worms, slugs - anything his dear little heart might desire. He takes to this pampering so readily I see a new business blossoming before my eyes. I’m working on a sign to hang on the gate, “Helen Martin: Rooster Whisperer. No job too small”, when the Rooster-From-Hell viciously adds my fingers to his menu. Demoralised, I revert to the less intimate mode of feeding him from a plastic cup. Lily doesn’t think Zeus is the Devil incarnate. She thinks he’s lovely and, surprisingly (she is the pariah at the bottom of the pecking order after all), the feelings are reciprocated. Not that Zeus is for a moment toying with monogamy as a life choice, but he hangs out with Lily the most, and she certainly gets her share of his amorous intentions. Given that he’s a very large Plymouth Barred Rock and she’s a 4

RURAL LIFESTYLE ISSUE 35

Bantam/Shaver/something else cross with a weird hairdo and stumpy legs, we can’t wait to see their offspring. I think. Speaking of stumpy legs - while the chooks and, of course, the cats, continue to make good use of the cat door, it gets a whole lot busier when we get Molly, a beautiful puppy with a Jack Russell father and a Dachshund mother. Of course, when we get her the nay sayers come out in force. Don’t you know Jack Russells are

Zeus and Lily hanging out.

It’s a perverse little menagerie and Molly fits right in. She won’t eat dog biscuits, but eagerly lines up with the chooks at feeding time for a snack of Peck’n’Lay. She’s not keen on tinned dog food, but likes nothing better than finding a rotten egg in the grass, courtesy of a chook who has laid away, and gobbling it up on the spot. Which brings me to the burning question of the moment. Why, in the middle of winter, are our chooks still laying? We’re total novices in this chook husbandry business, and yet we’re still getting around five gorgeous orange-yolked eggs a day from our posse of seven layers. We’re not complaining, just curious.

Auto Camry Sportivo

Camry $39,990

Sportivo RSP Auto

$39,990 Camry

RSP Sportivo Excludes On Road Costs Auto

$39,990

RSP Excludes On Road Costs

Excludes On Road Costs

Manual Corolla GX

Corolla $29,990

GX RSP Manual

$29,990 Corolla

GX RSP Excludes On Road Costs Manual

$29,990

RSP Excludes On Road Costs

Excludes On Road Costs

Yaris

Aurion AT-X

1.3L 3Door Auto

$Yaris 19,990

RSP AT-X Aurion $42,490 RSP On Road Costs $Excludes AT-X Aurion 42,490

1.3L 3Door RSP Auto

$19,990 Yaris

RSP 3Door Excludes On1.3L Road Costs Auto RSP On Road Costs $Excludes 19,990

Excludes On Road Costs

RSP On Road Costs $Excludes 42,490

Excludes On Road Costs

It’sIt’s anan outstanding any new newToyota Toyota outstandingtime timeto to choose choose any It’s an outstanding time to choose any new Toyota

Buy any new vehicle from our entire range and not only will you get an outstanding price, you’ll also get Buy any new vehicle from our entire range and not only will you get an outstanding price, you’ll also get free fuel for a year; $1000 worth of incredible Toyota accessories; and free WOF checks for three years.* free a year; $1000 of incredible Toyota accessories; and WOF checks foryou’ll threealso years.* Buy fuel any for new vehicle fromworth our entire range and not only will you get anfree outstanding price, get For deals that stand out, get to your local Toyota dealer now or visit www.toyota.co.nz For stand out, get of to incredible your local Toyota dealer now visit www.toyota.co.nz freedeals fuel forthat a year; $1000 worth Toyota accessories; andorfree WOF checks for three years.* For deals that stand out, get to your local Toyota dealer now or visit www.toyota.co.nz

Wilmot Toyota

Albany Toyota - Corner M ain Road & G ills Road, Albany Village, N or th Shore City 0755. Tel 09 415 7890 Toll Free 0800 657 755 Fax 09 415 7893 www.albany-toyota.co.nz

Wilmot Toyota - Corner Whitaker Road & Mill Lane, Warkworth 0910. Sales DDI 09 425 1093 Fax 09 425 7631 sales@wilmot.toyota.co.nz www.wilmot.co.nz

*The advertised RSPs RSPs apply to models shown thatthat areare purchased between and are are subject subjecttotostock stockavailability. availability. Excludes *The advertised apply to models shown purchased between1 1July Julyand and30 30September September 2010 2010 and Excludes all all new Daihatsu and Lexus vehicles andand used vehicles. Free fuelfuel offer based onona atypical of 14,000km 14,000kmper peryear yearand andinformation information sourced from new Daihatsu and Lexus vehicles used vehicles. Free offer based typicalNew NewZealand Zealand driver driver of sourced from www.fuelsaver.govt.nz . Theapply incl.) Toyota Genuine and Toyota approved accessories offer labour tment costsand andmust must be claimed *The advertised RSPs to(GST models shown that are purchased between 1 July and 30 September 2010 and are subject to costs stock availability. Excludes allor or www.fuelsaver.govt.nz . $1,000 The $1,000 (GST incl.) Toyota Genuine and Toyota approved accessories offer includes includes labour &&fifitment be claimed ordered at Daihatsu time purchase. W.O.F offer is for checks and does not include the cost any required topass pass the W.O.F test. road costs new and LexusFree vehicles and used vehicles. Free fuel only offer based on a typical New Zealand of 14,000km per to year and information sourced from ordered at of time of purchase. Free W.O.F offer is W.O.F for W.O.F checks only and does not include the cost of ofdriver any repairs repairs required the W.O.F test. OnOn road costs (excluding the initial W.O.F) not For incl.) full and conditions your Toyota or to www.fuelsaver.govt.nz . Theincluded. $1,000 (GST Toyota Genuine and ask Toyota approved accessories includes labour & fitment costs and must be claimed or (excluding the initial W.O.F) not included. For terms full terms and conditions ask your ToyotaDealer, Dealer, orgo gooffer to www.toyota.co.nz www.toyota.co.nz ordered at time of purchase. Free W.O.F offer is for W.O.F checks only and does not include the cost of any repairs required to pass the W.O.F test. On road costs (excluding the initial W.O.F) not included. For full terms and conditions ask your Toyota Dealer, or go to www.toyota.co.nz

Local history

In the South Kaipara there has been a proliferation of branches, all strongly supported and feeding into provincial and national bodies based in Wellington. Although Federated Farmers numbers have shrunk as Rodney has become home to arguably more lifestylers than farmers, its work is far from done. The Internet has largely replaced meetings and weekly Friday Flash e-newsletters keep members up to date. Annual membership for a farmlet owner is $337.50. Members get the benefit of a range of resources and access to a mountain of expertise. Scholarships are on offer and new initiatives have developed, such as annual farm days, which invite interested people to visit a working farm and ask questions. Agri-venture schemes, which place young people (18-30) on managed overseas work experience trips, are another initiative. With farmers still being seriously injured at the rate of 11 per day and more than 20 killed in farm accidents per year, farm safety courses are always being updated. Leadership training, cashflow management and software courses as well as practical seminars also feature.

By Lynnette Third

good men and women

of the land Anyone who grew up in rural New Zealand in the second half of last century is familiar with the venerable Kiwi icon that is Federated Farmers and its Women’s Division, the leading rural voice and lobby group championing the rights of rural landowners.

PLANT SALE

EXCELLENT QUALITY Manuka Kanuka Karamu Flax

PB3/4 PB3/4 PB3/4 PB3/4

$2 $2 $2 $2

Kauri Kowhai Titoki Taraire Karaka

PB2 PB2 PB2 PB2 PB2

$3.50 $3.50 $3.50 $3.50 $3.50

ORDER NOW. IT’S A GREAT TIME TO PLANT!!

Korimako Habitats Forest Restoration

Ph: 09 421 1129 palle@korimakohabitats.co.nz www.korimakohabitats.co.nz

RURAL LIFESTYLE ISSUE 35

Federated Farmers though is perhaps best known for its championing the rights of landowners. Recent victories include another $252 million for rural broadband and scrapping of the diesel tax proposal. Local president John Glasson, who has been involved with the “Feds” for over 30 years, told me recently that while the big national debates remain a focus, the organisation is still looking after the individual landowner and can help with local issues. From the beginning these activities have been supported and amplified by the Women’s Division who, although copping an unfair reputation as scone-makers and sock-knitters, have Great quality! You won’t actually been influential in improving many aspects of rural believe the prices! living.

Calf Milk Pump

The Wainui Branch, of which I am a member, was formed in 1936. A read through the old minute books reveals a

Calf Milk Pump

Great quality Bianco Q550B pump with a flow rate of up to 160 litres/min.

150

incl GST RRP

Suitable for draining sumps and transferring Bianco from one tank to another. Offer ends 30/09/10. Q550B Pump The Bianco Q550B Pump is a stainless steel vortex pump with a flow rate of up to 160 litres per minute, with a stainless steel shaft.

$150 incl GST RRP

Buy your pump now for $150 incl GST and go in the draw to

WIN Worth over $4500 RRP

a Feeder and Tank package

WE ARE THECompany PUMPLogo SPECIALISTS! Ph 00 000 0000 To purchase online visit www.biancocalfmilk.co.nz

Visit us online at www.watertechplus.com or our showroom at 6 Worker Road, Wellsford. Ph/fax 09 423 8061

FREE FREE

Chainsaw Kit Chainsaw Kit

Ü $ Valued at 200 $ Valued at 200 Ü

with the purchase of a selected

* chainsaw with Husqvarna the purchase of a selected Husqvarna chainsaw*

Available for selected Husqvarna Chainsaw models only – 440e, 445e, 450e, 455R, 460, 365, 570. Offer available from 1st June – 31st August 2010, Available only at participating dealers. *

The Chainsaw Kit includes: 1x Chain Filing Kit / 1x Clear Safety Glasses / 1xYOUR Garden Earmuffs / 1x 0.95ltrSPECIALISTS bar oil / 1x Chainsaw Case. Total RRP LOCAL HUSQVARNA value $200 incl GST

Available for selected Husqvarna Chainsaw models only – 440e, 445e, 450e, 455R, 460, 365, 570. Offer available from 1st June – 31st August 2010, Available only at participating dealers. *

WILM The Chainsaw Kit includes: 1x Chain Filing Kit / 1x Clear Safety Glasses Wellsford / 1x Garden Earmuffs / 1x 0.95ltr bar oil / 1x Chainsaw Case. Total RRP Mill Lan 308 State 1, Te Hana. (2.5km north of Wellsford) value $200 inclHighway GST LTD WILMOT MOTORS Ü

Available for selected Husqvarna Chainsaw models only – 440e, 445e, 450e, 455R, 460, 365, 570. LOCAL SPECIALISTS Offer available June – HUSQVARNA 31st August SPECIALISTS 2010, Available only at participating dealers. from 1st YOURYOUR LOCAL HUSQVARNA *

Wellsford

Wellsford YOUR LOCAL HUSQVARNA 308 State Highway 1, SPECIALISTS Te Hana. (2.5km north of Wellsford) 308 State Highway Te Hana. north of Wellsford) Phone: 09 4231,8558 - Fax:(2.5km 094238568 Wellsford Phone: 09 423 8558 - Fax: 094238568 ALBANY MOWERS & MACHINERY Albany 308 State Highway 1, Te&Hana. (2.5km north of Wellsford) ALBANY MOWERS MACHINERY Albany Albany Village 09-415 9756 Phone: 09Village 423 8558 - Fax: Albany 09-415 9756094238568 www.albany-mowers.co.nz ALBANY MOWERS & MACHINERY Albany www.albany-mowers.co.nz Albany VillageMOTORCYCLES, 09-415 9756 KAIWAKA Kaiwaka www.albany-mowers.co.nz Mangawhai Rd., Kaiwaka Ph 09 4312127 www.kaiwakamotorcycles.co.nz

www.husqvarna.co.nz

Warkworth Phone: 09 423 8558 - Fax: 094238568 WILMOT MOTORS LTD Mill Lane,ALBANY Warkworth. Phone: 09 425 8439. www.wilmot.co.nz Warkworth MOWERS & MACHINERY Albany WILMOT MOTORS LTD Warkworth Albany Village 09-415 9756 Kumeu Mill Lane, CHAINSAW Warkworth. Phone: 09 425SERVICES 8439. www.wilmot.co.nz KUMEU & MOWER www.albany-mowers.co.nz Mill Phone: 425past 8439. 377Lane, SH 16Warkworth. (Main Road), Huapai09(1km Huapaiwww.wilmot.co.nz Tavern)

Kumeu KUMEU CHAINSAW Phone: 09 412 8109 & MOWER SERVICES www.husqvarna.co.nz KUMEU CHAINSAW & MOWER SERVICES 377 SH 16 (Main Road), Huapai (1km past Huapai Tavern)Kumeu

KUMEU

377 SH Phone: 0

Parkway (OffHuapai Constellation Dv) Mairangi 377 SH 09 16412 (Main Road),6-10 Huapai (1kmDvpast Tavern) Phone: 8109 Bay www.yrco.co.nz Phone: 09 412 8109 09 443 2436 6-10 Parkway Dv (Off Constellation Dv) Mairangi Bay 6-10 Constellation Dv) Mairangi 09 443Parkway 2436 Dv (Off www.yrco.co.nz Bay 09 443 2436 www.yrco.co.nz

As 30-year Federated Farmers' veteran, John Glasson says, that while the big national debates remain a focus, the organisation is still looking after the individual landowner and helps with local issues.

rich slice of local history, a Who’s Who of many familiar local names, as well as others who have had their names immortalised in roads, parks and places of interest. Everyone in the minute book was addressed as “Mrs.” and minutes and finances were kept impeccably. Women’s Division filled a very important social role, bringing together women who had limited access to the outside world. My grandmother never learned to drive and her monthly meetings at the local hall allowed her to dress up, get off the farm and enjoy a well-earned afternoon off. Competition and camaraderie went hand in hand – baking, sewing, gardening, singing, speeches – skills were shared and compared and lifelong friendships blossomed. But it has always been more than a purely social group, a principal mission being to enrich the lot of country-folk and ensure that rural families were keeping up with services provided in towns and cities. Over the years activities have been far ranging and I enjoyed reading about the fund raising effort to purchase a Spitfire for the war effort. The “Let’s get plastered for breast cancer” campaign is where contemporary women’s thoughts are today (Go to the Rural Women’s website, find out about the campaign and purchase a plastering kit for $10!). Women’s Division was influential in establishing school bus services and dental clinics in remote areas and providing homecare schemes and accommodation for rural women needing rest and recuperation. Their vast portfolio of 8

RURAL LIFESTYLE ISSUE 35

activities has constantly evolved. In communications, where once it was pushing for free rural delivery, it is now pushing for broadband access to rural homes and schools. On the health front, its early bush nursing services have grown into Access Home Healthcare, a home-based healthcare scheme working through ACC and the Ministry of Health to care for over 14,000 people at any given time. In education, bursaries established 80 years ago for children from remote areas to attend schools and universities have been joined by an array of grants for textbooks as well as study across a wide range of agricultural, healthcare and community disciplines. Women’s Division, now known as Rural Women New Zealand, is still a powerful lobby group for rural communities, making submissions on a spectrum of topics from health and education, law and order to land use and genetic modification. As a charitable organisation it works on an individual level, anything from raising funds for local community groups to knitting for underprivileged children, (both at home and abroad), and as a national force fundraising for relevant causes. Recently it $107,000 for more research into Leptospirosis, a bacterium found in the urine of animals such as cattle, sheep, pigs and dogs which enters through cuts and via the eyes, nose and mouth. Its flu-like symptoms can cause long-term health issues and it is the most common occupationally-acquired infectious disease in this country.

and business side of farming. And of course many women now join the previously all-male precinct of Federated Farmers. Their lobbying arm is impressive and I was lucky enough to be chosen to go to Wellington on a leadership course several years ago. We met MPs for discussion, visited the Ministry of Women’s affairs, Telecom, Landcorp and the Correspondence School. Police Commissioner Howard Broad addressed us over morning tea before showing us through the 111 communications centre and allowing us to see for ourselves that all our curly rural addresses were on their radar for responding to emergencies. Both Federated Farmers and its Women’s Division work for the members they represent and are not afraid to stand up and go to bat for the people of the land.

There have always been close associations with other local groups such as schools. A beautifully written thank-you note from one Kirsty Emerson thanking the Rural Women for their kind donation to the Wainui School library building fund appears in the 1986 minute book. Today their work includes improving school bus services and the introduction of Rural School Safety Days, covering rural fires, poisons, ATVs, water safety and other issues that may impact on rural schoolchildren. Now that we have coffee shops, the Internet, cars and an array of social events vying for our attention, people ask if these organisations have had their time and are no longer relevant. They are, I believe, just as important today and have moved with the times. Rural Women now have Women in Agri-business and Women in Farming groups, which run hands-on training days and seminars on the practical

Would Your Wetland or Bush Block Qualify for Subdivision? Call us now for a FREE initial consultation Cato Bolam will assist you in maximising the development potential of your rural landholding through:

■ Wetland Potential / Restoration ■ Existing Native Bush Potential ■ Bush Planting Proposals ■ Potential from Boundary Relocations ■ Countryside Living Subdivisions

planners surveyors engineers Call Myles, Mark or Michelle Orewa 09 427 0072 Kumeu 09 412 9040 www.catobolam.co.nz

35yrs experience in Rodney “Quality Services for Quality Environments”

Back in my local patch, I note in the Garden Circle’s report presented to the Wainui Women’s July 1955 meeting that rose pruning and compost making were the subjects of discussion. That could quite easily have been the subject of a meeting this year. There seem some things we just never quite tire of! Both Federated Farmers and its Women’s Division work for the members they represent and are not afraid to stand up and go to bat for the people of the land. Take some time to check out their excellent web sites and see for yourself.

bsite: Federated Farmers we

www.fedfarm.org.nz and RuralWomen:

www.ruralwomen.org

VEGETATion MAnAGEMEnT Free quote on all aspects of Vegetation Management – Anywhere in the Country Tree Felling / Chipping Forest to Pasture Conversion Shelter Belt Removal Trimming / Transplanting Mulch Sales / Delivery Wood-lot Purchase / Logging Consultancy / Stump Grinding

For a FREE quote please contact: Chris Sheffield. Ph 0276 108 540 Or our office on 0800 TREEWORK (873396) Take a look at what we do at www.treescape.co.nz RURAL LIFESTYLE ISSUE 35

fo C A rF L R L

Design and Material

an EE N d m OW qu e ot asu e re

By Victoria McAnulty

Sustainability

Essentially, I craft puzzles. Clients offer me their spaces complete with wish list, a strict budget and a tight time-frame and I create the pieces to fit. Subject to project values, a commercial consideration that ultimately bears cost to our environment is that the best outcome at a fair price has a finite life. On project completion, clients and users then expect to throw all kinds of chaos into the mix and hope their fitout will last to within an inch of its life before they start over again. And start again they will. Hotel interiors last from 5-10 years. Restaurants turn over sooner, according to new ownership demands, and commercial spaces are dictated by use. In our homes we used to look for

often releasing harmful chemicals and toxins. Our building waste is taking many years to break down (if at all) and potentially impacting on our wildlife and waterways. While these materials are still in Wardrobe Doors use there is evidence that spatial

environments are the primary cause of Custom-made sliding many allergy and other health issues. or bi-folding Wardrobe This means that family, friends and Custom-made sliding Door System allows co-workers can be affected by what or bi-folding Wardrobe efficient access we install and that the future of their to Door System allowswe storage families may be impacted by whatspace efficient access to throw out.

www.homeplus.co.nz

storage space quality and longevity where affordable. Where there is an option to refresh a www.homeplus.co.nz Now, because we have a broad choice space or start from scratch, creating the of residential product and design, we 'vision', must be offset by reducing risk Custom-made sliding to the user and the environment. too can refresh our spaces on a whim, or bi-folding Wardrobe as fashion and lifestyle dictate. Practicing sustainability has previously

Roller Blinds Roller Blinds Door System allows Wardrobe While new spaces always draw Doors been seen as exorbitant, fanatical or

fo CA rF L R L an EE N d m OW qu e ot asu e re

interior design

fo CA rF L C R fL an EE or FN AL d m ROEW L qu aen E N ot adsu m e qrue e ot as e

Wardrobe Doors Wardrobe Doors

efficient access to

even kooky. And while it does takes admiring glances, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth asking storage space a dedicated type of person to live a where â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the old look' goes once we're www.homeplus.co.nz totally sustainable lifestyle, with better over it. Construction and demolition information about the options available waste make up 26% of our landfills in and their impacts, we can make more New Zealand, and if we include clean informed choices. fill debris this equates to half of all national waste generated. The materials Every environmentally conscious that once formed our floors, walls sliding decision counts. Where you're adding Custom-made and ceilings slowly decay in giant Wardrobe pits,Winternew orWarmer bi-folding in / elements into your spaces, take a

Roller Blinds Door System allows

W NO asure L L e CA REE muote

q F for and

Cool in Warmer in Summer Winter efficient access to/ www.blinds.co.nz storage space Sunscreen blinds can Warmer Cool in Summer in Winter/Cool www.homeplus.co.nzSunscreen reduce energy inwww.blinds.co.nz Summer. Sunscreen blinds can consumption reduce energy by up to blinds can reduce energy consumption by up to 63% while by also upadding to Roller Blindsconsumption 63% while also adding 63% while also adding elegant, sophisticated elegant, sophisticated Warmer in Winter / elegant, sophisticated and minimalistic and minimalistic Cool in Summer appearance to www.blinds.co.nz and minimalistic appearance to can Sunscreen blinds windows, and come appearance to come in windows,and reduce energy in a variety of colours windows,and consumption by upintoto to suit any home. a variety of come colours www.blinds.co.nz a variety of colours to 63% whilehome. also adding suit any suit any home. elegant, sophisticated Warmer in Winter /

Roller Blinds

Cool in Summer Wardrobe Doors Sunscreen blinds can

reduce energy consumption by up to 63% while also adding elegant, sophisticated and minimalistic appearance to Customwindows,and come in made sliding a variety of colours to or bi-folding suit any home.

www.homeplus.co.nz

RURAL LIFESTYLE ISSUE 35

and minimalistic www.blinds.co.nz appearance to windows,and come in a variety of colours to 16-18 Morrison Drive 16-18 Drive suit any home.Morrison 16-18 Morrison Drive

HOMEPLUS RODNEY HOMEPLUS RODNEY

rodney@homeplus.co.nz rodney@homeplus.co.nz Warkworth

HOMEPLUS RODNEY rodney@homeplus.co.nz

09425 4257053 7053 09

Wardrobe Door 16-18 Morrison Drive System allows HOMEPLUS RODNEY rodney@homeplus.co.nz efficient access to storage 16-18 Morrison Drive space.

151M

09 425 7053

151M

rodney@homeplus.co.nz

09 425 7053

151M

how it can be disposed of when the appropriate time comes. We have some very dedicated manufacturers producing high quality, environmentally-friendly products and as we become more aware of the social impact of our choices, we can create unique solutions from which further product designs might develop. It's an exciting time. Most manufacturers are now considering the effects of their production on the environment, so if their eco-friendly options are price competitive and provide the right design solution for you, why not take the plunge? Choose materials that are low maintenance, pre-finished or require little resource (and therefore waste) to complete on site. Products that can withstand the daily pressures of our lives last longer, so cost less in the long run. Consider how the product is packaged, and if the wrapper can be eliminated, recycled or re-used.

Construction and demolition waste make up 26% of our landfills in New Zealand.

moment to consider your options. Ask questions of suppliers and retailers to help expand your options. It's about trying to reduce the negative environmental impact where possible. The main elements to consider are how the product is manufactured, where it comes from, how it’s packaged and

For example, if you're considering replacing your cabinetry in kitchens and bathrooms, you could choose painted wooden units over low pressure laminate options. The latter contain toxins from the manufacturing process and, as they chip quite easily, have a shorter life. Once chipped, the exposed substrate will swell from moisture, becoming a breeding ground for fungus in kitchens and bathrooms. Wood from a local, renewable forestry resource wins over imported as by sourcing locally you limit the distance travelled by the product. Use pre-cut and pre-nailed options so there's less waste to remove from site. Brightening up your spaces? Look for low volatile organic

20% OFF All Fabrics*

Exclusive to Rodney's Rural Lifestyle – Hurry, offer ends 31 August!

15% OFF

1 Elizabeth Street, Warkworth

09 425 0037

RURAL LIFESTYLE ISSUE 35

Rodney’s largest curtain range and the very latest in fabrics. You can visit our showroom or we can come to you with an extensive range of fabrics for an in-home consultation. *This offer is EXCLUSIVE to Rodney’s Rural Lifestyle readers - just mention the ad. Conditions apply. Offer ends 31 August.

Bernie

Dave

Blinds.

Barbara

IS GORSE OR SCRUB ERODING YOUR LAND’S PRODUCTIVITY? Before...

After!

For an online video demonstration visit www.rurallifestyle.co.nz

We’ll make quick work of the tallest gorse on steep, hard-to-reach sites. Steep gullies and hillsides are often left for gorse to overtake because it’s too difficult to control. Spraying requires a lengthy die-off period and still leaves the problem of removal. Burning can promote rapid re-growth and can damage non-target vegetation. With our new 22.5tonne machine and its fixed tooth

mulching head we go where no others have before. We’ll turn gorse-ridden land into productive farm land quickly and efficiently. You’ll save on spraying costs and re-vegetation or re-sowing can start immediately. Any gorse regrowth can then be more easily managed and maintained.

Dams | Wetlands | Bridges | Timber Jetties | Culvert Crossings $5,000,000 Public Liability Insurance covering all fire risk

Call Ken Borg 0800 600 500 | 021 635577 ken@allaboutearthmoving.co.nz www.allaboutearthmoving.co.nz

with a greater product life, fewer repairs required, minimal impact on disposal and health and well-being benefits to colleagues and loved ones. It might be that with clever planning you reduce site wastage and the costs associated with removing debris. By supporting local suppliers and smaller companies who push the boundaries you encourage continued exploration into sustainable resource. Ultimately, if you're making the effort to re-create your space, why not aim to enjoy it for as long as possible? For the many resources I consume and specify for others, I do take care to make informed decisions. There's not yet a solar panel, wind turbine or mud home in my life, but little by little I'm learning and making better choices, and that's a good thing. Most paint manufacturers have at least one low VOC paint option.

compound (VOC) emissions in your paint. VOCs are unstable, carbon-containing compounds that vaporise, reacting with other elements to cause air pollution and potentially create a host of major health issues. Most major brands have at least one low VOC option on offer. For flooring there are many options. For example, you could look at a locally produced New Zealand wool product, where there are some chemical processes used in dying the wool and during production but low travel miles. Some companies specialise in sustainable residential design, and you can review options with your architect, builder or project manager. As an alternative there's always the demolition yard. Try introducing quality and character into your spaces through the installation of recycled goods. There’s many a treasure to be found out there if you're prepared to restore the glory. Extra value-spend up front will be recovered in the long run

Call us before you NEED to!

rmation and good source of info A : ts en m m co ’s Ed and suppliers is ier manufacturers dl en fri oec to ks lin nd Choice New Zeala the Environmental z. n g. or e. viro-choic Website www.en eat things rer who’s doing gr tu ac uf an m l ca lo One -zero across the ts (certified carbon in pa of e ng ra a with w.paintplus. e) is Paint Plus ww ng ra t uc od pr e tir en rites for recycled my personal favou of e on d an z .n co rs, Gary and iler Room. Creato Bo e th is re itu rn fu furniture uriwai and salvage M in d se ba e ar e Su e off pieces of aterials to create on m on iti ol m de d an oiler-ro om.co.nz furniture www.b

HOMESPRING WINS TASTE TEST! Over 1400 people who visited our stand during Fieldays and took the taste test picked the Homespring membrane filtered water over normal carbon filtered water by almost 2 to 1! No other technology can give you the same degree of confidence that your drinking water is safe for the family. Homespring is certified to filter to 0.02 micron, physically removing 99.99999% of bacteria (like E.coli), 99.999% of viruses, Giardia and other protozoan cysts, chlorine, cloudiness and smell from all water sources. Yet essential healthy salts and minerals remain in the water.

Need replacement filter cartridges? We supply and service all makes of filters for domestic and commercial filtration systems. YOUR HEALTH IS WORTH A PHONE CALL...

Cleaning of Septic Tanks, Grease Traps, Car and Truck washes, Cesspits.

Ph: 09 411 5499 www.septic-tank.co.nz

Clean your septic tank every three years. Remember your septic is connected to the environment! 14

RURAL LIFESTYLE ISSUE 35

Call Greg or Steve today!

0800 PURE WATER 0800 787 392

By Grant McKechnie

Native

revegetation

So you fancy creating a bit of bush on that steep paddock out the back, or in that gully through the middle, or perhaps you want to create a bush corridor between two existing areas of natives. Creating bush can seem daunting because it usually involves a sizable area. But with a bit of careful planning, it is relatively easy to achieve. Usually the first job is to fence the area to be planted to make it secure from stock. Having said that, it is much easier to get you and your plants into position without fences to climb over, so it may be more practical to fence after planting. Don’t risk it though if you have stock wandering around the place - there’s nothing they like more than to supplement their diet with a nice juicy young tree or three. Next you need to measure the area to assess the total number of square metres to be planted. Once you know the area you can work out how many

plants you need. For example, if you have 5000 square metres (half a hectare) to plant, and you are going to plant at 1m spacing, you’ll need 5000 plants. If you are planting at 1.5m spacing, you will need 2222 plants (1.5m x 1.5m = 2.25sqm per plant. 5000sqm ÷ 2.25 = 2222 plants). Now you need a list of species suited to your site to decide how many of each are needed. As with any planting, correct plant choice is essential. You might need a bit of expert advice with this, but if there is some existing bush nearby that’s always a good guide. The faster growing nurse crops, such as Leptospermum scoparium (manuka), Kunzea ericoides (kanuka), Coprosma robusta (karamu), Cordyline australis

Canopy species are trees such as Agathis australis (kauri), Dacrycarpus dacrydioides (kahikatea), Podocarpus totara, Vitex lucens (puriri), Alectryon excelsus (titoki) and Corynocarpus laevigatus (karaka). These will push up through the nurse crops. I’ve made a list here for a typical 1000-plant schedule for a general revegetation planting in the Rodney area, so you can see how we apportion each species.

Plant Schedule Manuka.....................270 Kanuka.....................250 Karamu.....................150 Mahoe....................... 100 Koromiko.................. 100 Puriri........................... 40 Titoki........................... 40 Cabbage tree......... 50

HOURS Mon–Fri - 8.30am - 5.00pm Saturday - 9.00am - 5.00pm

THE LIFESTYLE BLOCK SPECIALISTS • Hedging • Shelter • Natives • Landscape plants • Bulk pricing available for most plants • Lots of trees for autumn colour

REVEGETATION NATIVES Good grade/good prices Buy from the grower Still good stocks for 2010 Professional advice Planting service

Let Grant & Julie help you select the best plants for your place! Robinson Rd, Coatesville. Ph/Fax 09 415 8806. mck.nursery@clear.net.nz www.mckechnienurseries.co.nz RURAL LIFESTYLE ISSUE 35

landscape design

(cabbage tree), Hebe stricta (koromiko) and Melicytus ramiflorus (mahoe or whiteywood) are planted at greater density than canopy species, which are generally taller- and slower-growing.

Buy Better Build Better

POST PEELINGS Ask us about delivery!

1 West St, Helensville Tel: 0800 833 399 Fax: 09 420 8476 Email: oikoumene@xtra.c Web: www.oikoumene.co

$20 m3

$129.38 DRAINAWAY 30m COIL 110mm punched Make a simple spray shield by nailing a piece of plastic drainage pipe (with opening down one side) nailed to an old broomstick.

Ask about your EECA Energywise rebate on insulation now!

INSULATION SERVICE We can now arrange installation for roof, under-floor or whole house lots and super deals on DIY packs. 1484 Oikoumene Forest Letterhead.pdf

Lifestyle

EXPO

Sat 30 October 7/4/09

1:08:04 PM

Helensville Showgrounds. Don't miss this year's write it in the calendar!

LIMITED Oikoumene FOREST

14thth NOVEMBER 2009 11 West West Street, Street, Helensville Helensville •• $10 $10 entry entry

FREEPHONE 0800 8333 99

1 West St, Helensville. Fax 09 420 8476. Web: www.oikoumene.co.nz

Contact: Chris @ OIKOUMENE BUILDLINK Email: oikoumene@xtra.co.nz on 027-296-0687

RURAL LIFESTYLE ISSUE 35

Birds are an important part of any revegetation planting because they bring in seed from other surrounding bush. It can be in their feathers, or deposited with a dollop of fertiliser. Most of our native plants have something for the birds – nectar, seeds or fruit – so the bigger the variety of plants in your planting, the more reasons birds have to visit and the more seed they drop. It just helps the process along. The next issue to deal with is pre-planting preparation. The ideal is to have sheep graze the land hard just before you plant. Then, after planting, use a shield as a protector and spray around each plant. (See photo for a DIY spray shield.) I’m not a believer in blanket spraying the whole area prior to planting, as once the grass has gone you’ll get weed infestation. Weeds grow more quickly and are harder to control than grass. You really need only a 50cm diameter circle sprayed for each plant. The exception to the no-blanket-spray rule is where you have kikuyu. In that case, you have to blanket spray prior to planting to get on top of it. Now you are ready to plant. First, set out your plants, randomly scattering them for a natural look, making sure you have a fairly even spread of varieties. Nurse crop plants will be at 1 to 1.5m centres, while the canopy species will be planted 1 West St, Helensville Tel: 0800 833 399 among them, but up to 6m apart. Once you’ve got your plants laid out, start planting. It’s goodFax: 09 420 8476 practice to use a slow release Email: oikoumene@xtra.co.nz fertiliser with each plant. Web: www.oikoumene.co.nz

Regular maintenance, particularly in the first year, is absolutely critical to get a good result from your planting. There’s a lineup of nasties waiting to destroy your handiwork. We’ll cover them in next month’s column.

solar case study

By Neville Walker

milking the

sun

With The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) providing financial incentives of up to $1000 to install solar hot water heating systems and mounting pressure from electricity price rises, surely dairy farmers would be taking advantage of the offer in droves? But despite the fact that 32% of a typical dairy farm’s electricity bill is spent on hotwater (see pie chart), there are still a lot of milking sheds out there with nothing on the roof. Lachlan McKenzie, chairman of the Federated Farmers Dairy section, is one farmer who has recently made the leap. I asked Lachlan what convinced him to install a solar hot water

heating system on his 600-cow dairy farm near Rotorua after 5 years of quietly assessing the options. Government incentives, rising electricity prices and improvements in solar technology together provide a very convincing rationale for the short term business case and, in the longer term, solar hot water heating is set to become an

OPEN SEASON ON PRICES! WHITEBAIT SEASON

SPECIALS

SEASON OPEN 15 Aug - 30 Nov

kiwi six packs best value fleece packs!

Scoop Nets 10’ just $119.99 12’ just $129.99

(be quick - limited stock)

ONLY $99.99!

kids packs camo green

FINALLY... DESIGNED BY WOMEN FOR WOMEN! 1 x Microfleece Long Sleeve top 2 x Microfleece Short Sleeve top (Black & Claret) 1 x Fleece pant (Black) 1 x Microfleece beanie (Black) 1 x Snug-fit socks (Olive/Black)

THERMACORE BASE LAYER

Short Sleeve

Full stock of whitebait gear in-store now!

ONLY $99.99!

$39.99!

Long Sleeve

$49.99!

S Y 2 ITEM OR... AN LY $59.99! FOR ON

Leggings

$49.99!

Hunting & Fishing Westgate 7 Cabernet Cres, Westgate, Auckland Ph: 09 833 3019. Phone orders welcome. RURAL LIFESTYLE ISSUE 35

lot of his own research and as his knowledge of the technology and options grew so did his confidence. So how do you become confident when you don’t know where to find the answers?

Two pre-heat tanks (740 litres in total) will contribute an estimated 22,600kWh per milking season.

imperative. In Lachlan’s case, the payback period on the investment was an obvious benefit and this subsequently has continued to improve as a result of rising energy prices (now further accelerated with the introduction of the ETS). However, as Lachlan pointed out, trust and confidence have been big factors in his decision making. Confidence in the supplier and trust in the technology were critically important. As very high users of energy, dairy farmers are frequently targeted by solar industry suppliers. That attention promotes a level of scepticism which, when combined with a lack of knowledge can breed a certain

level of mistrust. The other factors to influence dairy farm business owners is that many of the farms are operated by sharemilkers, who have to pay the power bill. Lachlan’s perspective was that, as the ‘landlord’, he wanted to provide the right kind of business incentive to retain a good ‘tenant’. In situations where a sharemilker makes the investment, and circumstances change, the advantage of ‘closed-circuit’ solar units such as that used in the McKenzie farm is that they can be relocated from one roof to another (as long as the roof is approved to carry the load) or even relocated for domestic usage. Lachlan was committed to doing a

! g n i

What was needed was a good understanding of how the different systems worked and how to monitor the efficiency. That understanding came through asking questions of a number of suppliers, referencing the EECA website and seeking information via the web. Once Lachlan had a good working understanding of the components, factored in all the costs including plumbing, storage tanks etc, and how

New Location - The new Warkworth Health Centre Cnr Percy & Alnwick Sts, Warkworth (from the end of August)

v o M ’re

Although the information is out there, as Lachlan pointed out, he just couldn’t go to anyone and quickly find out how much energy his daily volume of water was going to need. The solar system pre-heats the water during the day, so that when the wash down occurs the following morning, to bring the temperature from 13°C to the required 85-90°C the electricity required is greatly reduced.

Call us to make a time to come in – you’ll be so glad you did!

HEARING LOSS? YOU DON’T HAVE TO PUT UP WITH IT!

Lesleigh Smith BSc.,MSc Aud., M.N.Z.A.S. C.C.C AUDIOLOGIST

Kasia Hamilton B.Tech (Hons), M.Aud (Hons) C.C.C.,M.N.Z.A.S AUDIOLOGIST

Shirley Parker Office administrator

• Fully qualified audiologists • Professional and caring service • Independent hearing instrument specialists • ACC and War Pensions accredited • Obligation free trial of hearing aids

9 Falls Street (opp Police station)

Warkworth.

PH 09 422 2550 18

RURAL LIFESTYLE ISSUE 35

IS NOW

NORTHLAND A new name but the same caring professionals.

The chart below will give you an idea of your current costs of hot water usage (including heat losses and seasonal efficiency)* Total litres of water per day Average

Monthly energy required to heat water to 60°C kWh

Annual running costs kWh=18c

Annual running costs kWh=25c

Monthly energy required to heat water to 85°C kWh

Annual running costs kWh=18c

Annual running costs kWh=25c

200

491

$ 1,061

$ 1,474

752

$ 1,625

$ 2,257

300

737

$ 1,592

$ 2,211

1129

$ 2,438

$ 3,386

500

1228

$ 2,653

$ 3,685

1881

$ 4,063

$ 5,643

1000

2457

$ 5,306

$ 7,370

3762

$ 8,126

$ 11,286

2000

4913

$ 10,612

$ 14,739

7524

$ 16,252

$ 22,572

*Data courtesy of Solar Group Ltd

the system was going to work for him, the decision was straightforward. He settled on Solar Group Limited (based in Albany) as the solar equipment supplier for the McKenzie farm.

the storage tanks to the cylinders and c) and for topping up the storage tanks. The EECA also recommend ensuring the control settings can be adjusted to maximise efficiency around varying tanker pick-up and wash-down times.

The pay-back period proved to be less than 3 years and ultimately the outlay would be repaid several times over its lifetime. While that pay-back period would have increased slightly as at the time of installation the level of EECA funding was higher, the figures are still impressive.

For more information and EECA case studies reference www.eeca.govt.nz/node/5479

Results McKenzie Dairy Farm Rotorua Two pre-heat tanks (740 litres in total) Full monitoring and EECA funding provided A sample milking period from August – December extrapolates to 22,600kWh per milking season. Investment $14.5k Payback = 2.9 years (assuming 22c per kWh) ENERGY CONSUMPTION ON A TYPICAL DAIRY FARM milk chilling 21%

Dairy energy facts and figures from the EECA • 140,000 kWh of solar energy falls on the roof of a typical dairy shed (assuming a typical milking shed roof area of 100m2) • 24,000 kWh of heat energy is wasted to the atmosphere from a typical milk chiller (assuming chiller energy costs represent 21% of the annual dairy shed power bill. Source: Genesis Energy Dairy Savings website data) • Many dairy sheds consume over 126,000 kWh of electrical energy, of which up to 32% heats water and 21% cools milk (assuming average dairy farm annual power bill of $20,000 at $0.16 per kWh.)

Water Pumping 10%

FREE ENERGY milking system 26% (REf. www.dairysavings.co.nz

Water heating 32% other 11%

Good design requires flexibility The McKenzie farm is a good example of the savings that can be made. The EECA website (see reference below) presents a number of other case studies. Flexibility of design is a key factor to allow for differences in milking, wash down and tanker pick-up times. On the McKenzie farm, two large capacity (740litres in total) insulated storage tanks were fitted to the roof of the dairy shed (which the roof structure is able to take the weight of) with the solar system heating the tanks all day to allow a hot washdown the following morning. Timers and smart controllers have been added as part of the EECA monitoring programme. These improve the efficiency of a) the electrical heating top-up b) cycling the water from

WORTH MILKING!

With a $1000 cash grant from EECA, your Solahart system could pay for itself in just over 3 years! To find out more call us now for your free information pack that explains the facts on domestic and dairy solar hotwater – without obligation.

EECA monitored installation at the McKenzie farm near Rotorua.

For a FREE Fact Pack Phone

Solar Group Ltd 19 Arrenway Drive, Albany www.SLG.co.nz

0800 447 336

RURAL LIFESTYLE ISSUE 35

Find grazing elsewhere for a time. Calculate the cost of transport and the grazing fee then compare with the extra you are likely to get for the stock after winter.

By Lynnette Third

the need for

feed

Supplement the stock that cannot be kept at maintenance level. There is a daily cost in machinery time and feeding out as well as the food purchase to consider.

Water, water everywhereâ&#x20AC;Ś and not enough grass for the stock!

Apply extra nitrogen. In the north we are still able to apply nitrogen at this time of year and see a lift in the amount of grass produced.

Unlike the sailors in The Rime of the Ancient Mariner stock do have plenty to drink, but feed is a scarce commodity right now.

Large machinery such as feed-out wagons are not usually available to the lifestyle farmer so it is a matter of finding feed that can be fed out in small amounts.

We have come out of a long drought and moved straight into winter without the autumn growth we all rely on to get our animals into good condition. The hay we made in summer has in many cases already been fed out and we are faced with hard decisions. Small blocks have limited land to rotate their stock and break-feeding with electric fences is needed to make the most of the pasture on hand.

What are the options?

Sell off stock you cannot feed at maintenance level (this is the amount of food required to keep the animal from losing weight). The selling price might not be optimum, especially if the livestock are not â&#x20AC;&#x153;finishedâ&#x20AC;? ready

Baleage is also available in smaller bales than the normal 10 bale equivalent wrap and this has a higher nutrient value than hay. If you can get hold of a 4 bale equivalent bale you will be able to feed this out by hand or on a small trailer towed by a quad.

Remember that lice and worms will infect animals in times of stress, when they are in close contact with each other, and when they are eating down near the soil. If they are coughing, a drench may be in order, and will improve their resilience. Local Federated Farmers president John Glasson (pictured above) has an important word of caution. He noticed several wild deer had died on his property and wondering why he investigated more closely. He found balls of baleage wrapper entangled in their gut. I have also heard from many people tales of sheep and cattle dying after eating strings, wrappers and other debris that should not be left in pasture. Always remove all the rubbish â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a hungry animal is not very discriminating.

4/ /0%. 05,, .!22/7 T!0%

Multifeed

ÂŽ

Versatile Nutrition

VERSATILE Nutrition

Multifeed

Convenient multi purpose ruminant feed. Balanced with vitamins and minerals. Nut form helps to limit wastage.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;A convenient, versatile feed that is safe enough to meet the nutritional demands of all ruminant stock.â&#x20AC;?

s VERSATILE SAFE TO FEED ALL RUMINANT livestock s )MPROVE CONDITION AND PRODUCTIVITY IN STOCK ESPECIALLY WHEN DEMAND IS HIGH E G pregnancy LACTATION or WHEN INCREASING weight. s )DEAL TO ENHANCE CONDITION FOR SHOWING OR sales s !SSIST IN MAINTAINING STOCK DURING PERIODS OF CRITICAL FEED stress Suitable for: sheep, goats, deer, cattle, alpacas, llamas and pigs

NRM-RW012

25kg Nett

RW012 Multifeed+ Zinc Rodney Rural Life 120x90.indd 20 RURAL LIFESTYLE ISSUE 35

When buying hay or silage the first and most important check is the smell. If is smells sweet and nutritious it is in good condition. If it smells or looks mouldy, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feed it out as it can do more harm than good. Check that it does not contain a large proportion of broadleaf weed, such as dock. These weeds, apart from seeding and potentially taking hold in your patch, are far less attractive to the stock.

Hay is the most popular option because it is easy to feed out and, although it is lower in energy value compared with other feed options, at least it supplies bulk. Being dry it provides roughage and warmth to cattle, both of which are important at this time of year.

SHORT OF FEED?

Ask for it at your local rural retailer.

Make sure you keep it sealed between feeds and it will keep for some days. Talking to local contractors, the word is that hay and baleage are expensive now because so much was fed out in late summer and stocks everywhere are low. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s farming, and weather can catch us out.

A range of pellet or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;nutâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; supplements is available at rural merchants. These are very efficient in that they are easy to feed out and contain good energy and nutrient value (especially important if the animals need extra help, say after giving birth). Because of the concentration of nutrients they are relatively expensive to feed on a large scale and are better used to provide the top up rather than the bulk of the diet.

25kg

stock management

for killing, but you have to weigh this up against the cost of other options.

23/04/10 1:16 PM

Lastly, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feed out more than the animals will eat straight away. If the food is left to get wet and trampled into the ground you waste your precious resource and have less later on when you might really need it. Roll on spring!

Directory REGISTERED VALUERS Lifestyle Block Specialists for Southern Rodney.

Alan Davies Telephone: Facsimile: Mobile: A/H: Email:

Dip, URB Val, SPINZ

34 years experience

William Pickering Office Park, 29 William Pickering Drive PO Box 302 730 North Harbour North Shore City 0751

09 414 7170 09 414 7180 0274 953 163 09 420 4776 alan@daviesbatley.com

DAVIESBATLEY Composite Joinery L i m i t e d . Limited

• VANTAGE Joinery • Timber Joinery

Now is a good time to call…

FIREWATCH RODNEY 2006 LTD Mark Burnan (Wellsford based) Ph 09 423 7032 Mob 0274 906 166

Septic and Water Tank Cleaning

Composite Joinery

• VANTAGE joinery Exteriorjoinery and Interior • •timber • exterior and interior Residential&&commercial Commercial • •residential

Farmers • Lifestylers • Businesses • Fire Extinguishers (to suit ALL situations) • Fire Blankets • Smoke Detectors • Fixed Systems • Fire protection for your insurance obligations • Switchboard Protection 24-7 from as little as $180 Covering Rodney from Puhoi to Kaiwaka/ Mangawhai and everywhere in between.

NEW COLOURS AVAILABLE Make your home a statement with VANTAGE and doors! VISITwindows OUR SHOWROOM: 7VISIT Glenmore Dr, Warkworth OUR SHOWROOM:

09 425 7510 7 Glenmore Dr, Warkworth

or visit www.compositejoinery.co.nz Email:sales@compositejoinery.co.nz

09 425 7510

Email:sales@compositejoinery.co.nz

You can rely on the team at Composite Joinery!

Registered Master Joiner

Memb:Window Assoc Of NZ

Have your Water Tank or Septic tank cleaned for Summer

Burnetts

Ph 09 412 9210 or 0274 924 494

email: burnetts.sts@xtra.co.nz

Reg. Master Joiner

Red Turtle Ltd Award winning designer specialising in - Interior design and plan management - Colour, surface and product specification - Custom furniture, lighting and feature design - Art specification and supply

Landscaping Revegetation/Wetlands

For all your design needs call me today and be inspired

Consultations • Design • Construction • Planting • Maintenance

Victoria McAnulty BSD t (09) 523 3250 m 021 280 3837 e victoria@redturtle.co.nz

90 Jones Road, Omaha email: admin@libertypark.co.nz

NZ Native Plant Specialists Call Toni 09-422

7307

www.libertypark.co.nz

Lifestyle Buildings • Rural Specialists • Complete Design and Build Lifestyle homes – Stables – Barns – Workshops – Light commercial

152 Great South Road, Takanini • PO Box 72 220 Papakura • P: 09 299 7855 F: 09 298 7855 • www.econobuilt.co.nz

Need Sales? Talk to us now... deadline for September issue is Monday 16 August. For rates and availability, email neville@rurallifestyle.co.nz or phone 09 420 4660 / 021 377580 or Marlene on 021 854946. Don’t delay – space is limited.

Directory WHEN IT RAINS... IT POURS

24hr Emergency Service Qualified Arborist

Specialists in: Fine Pruning, Rose, www.aucklandtreemasters.co.nz Tree & Shrubs, Hedge Pruning, Tree Removal, Crown Reduction, Branch Chipping, Stump Grinding, Land Clearing. $5mil Public Liability. Pensioner Discounts • Free Quotes

Phone Matt (09) 426 7912 or 021 124 6478 email: atm.onalimb@yahoo.co.nz

www.aucklandtreemasters.co.nz

Book your drive or race resurfacing NOW! DRIVEWAY REPAIR AND RE-SURFACING FEATURE DAMS • WATERWAYS • CATTLE STOPS CULVERTS • FARM DRAINAGE • WETLAND RESTORATION

Call us for a FREE quote

0800 4 SWALE

or 09 420 8352. 103 Mill Road Helensville

ecoworx

LTD

tree felling & land clearing Bulk transport • tree felling & land clearing landscaping • portable saw-milling landscaping groundsgrounds maintenance management • forest maintenanceforest management bulk transport

portable sawmilling

supply & deliver: ph we 021 884 682 compost • farmers lime rock • aggregates • mulch • sand • natural untreated timbers garden emailmix ecoworx@slingshot.co.nz Ask what our new 4WD Tractor and 2m-wide Mulcher can do for you!

**macrocarpa and eucalyptus trees and logs wanted** Contact Jared Hyland Ph 021 884 682 email ecoworx@slingshot.co.nz PO Box 145, Kaukapakapa 0843 we supply & deliver :

compost

farmers lime rock

garden mix

aggregates

mulch

sand

natural untreated timbers

Native Revegetation & Wetland Specialists Bulk Suppliers of Revegetation Landscape & Specimen Grades Deciduous Trees • Shelter & Hedging • Ornamentals Olives • Citrus • Fruit & Nut Trees • Avocados • Subtropicals

Everything you need at the one location! For a full catalogue, phone, send S.A.E. or email tehananurseries@paradise.net.nz

COLIN HAWKEN FENCING DESIGN AND BUILD

ASK ABOUT WINTER ON systems TRANSPORT RATES Water tanksDISCOUNTS and drainage

House sites – engineer-certified cut and fill specialist Subdivisions • Driveways • Lifestyle block and farm work Metal, sand and topsoil cartage • Diggers, roller, truck and trailer hire Landscaping and retaining walls • Footings and ﬂoor preparation **macrocarpa and eucalyptus trees and logs wanted**

Serving Albany to Ruakaka Contact: Jared Hyland Ph 021 884 682 PO Box 145, Kaukapakapa 0843

Call Ian 0274 955 262 office phone/fax 09 422 9358

We Value YOUR Property

Farms • Farm lease rentals • Horticulture Residential • Rural Lifestyle • Waterfront Max Rowsell Ph 09 422 9254 or 0274 753 851 max@mjrowsellvaluer.co.nz www.mjrowsellvaluer.co.nz

Farms • Lifestyle Blocks • Domestic Deer • Post & Rail • 7-Wire • Stock yards • Property Fencing Plans

Ph/Fax 09-422 0108 Mob: 0274-902 516 email: gemo@xtra.co.nz Topping/Mowing/Mulching Gorse Removal and Control Weed Spraying (boom or gun) Lime and Fertiliser Application Pasture and Lawn Renewal Paddock Smoothing Facial Eczema Control

Ñ Ñ Ñ Ñ Ñ Ñ Ñ

www.blockbusters.co.nz Free call 0508 256-252

Help and advice is a phone call away

Wholesale direct to the public prices. FREE QUOTES. Established 1988

Best Garden Centre (N.Is.) 2008

Directory RuRal & lifestyle specialist Selling Rural and Lifestyle Real Estate in Rodney & Kaipara since 1991. For an appraisal in today’s market phone:

Established 1988

Specialists in plants, natives & fruit trees suitable for the Auckland region

Karen Phillips AREINZ 027 475 5509 A/H 09 423 7716

CLIP THIS COUPON FOR FREE FERTILISER WITH EACH PLANT PURCHASED! • Beautiful plants at wholesale direct-to-the-public prices • Book a FREE site assessment and quote

karen_phillips@xtra.co.nz

Ph 09 420 5655 • OPEN 7 DAYS 9am to 5pm • www.plantsnz.co.nz 1481 Kaipara Coast Highway (SH16), Kaukapakapa. 4km North of Kaukapakapa Village

ph 0800 420 565

Mobile Auto Electrical & Batteries

Ph (09) 420 8181 or 021 689 700

Unit B 103 Mill Road, Helensville

Vehicles Trailers Horsefloats Agri-machinery Marine

MREINZ

RODNEY GARAGE DOORS Custom made for you

• Sectional-tilting Roller • 22 colours or powder-coated to match your joinery • We service all makes of doors and automatics • Free measure and quote

Installation • Sales • Service

Rodney Garage Doors 1998 Ltd. 29 Glenmore Drive, Warkworth Ph 09-425 0258 Mob 0274 425 025 Serving Rodney for over 30 years

www.sadler09.co.nz

PROPERTY VALUATIONS • • • • •

Lifestyle Properties Farms Subdivisions Residential Commercial / Industrial / Retail

• • • • •

Progress Reports Proposed Buildings Family Trust Transfers Reserve Contributions IRD Purposes

West Rodney (incl Coatesville): Albany Office: 09 415 2125

Cushla Howard 021 324 965 Rodney South

East Rodney: Orewa Office: 09 427 9903

Mike Morse 0274 909 211 Rodney North

2009 LTD

Land Clearing • Logging • Tree-work $5mil Public Liability • 32 Years Experience Bulk Mulch & Chip for Landscape & Calf Sheds FRIENDLY QUALIFIED ARBORIST – NO OBLIGATION FREE QUOTES

Servicing the Rodney area for 30 years and accepted by all major financial institutions.

Phone 09 426 9216 0800 HOTWOOD

Fax 09 426 9218 Email office@sadler09.co.nz

KEMP

BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS Farming and Rural Legal Specialists ECO-FRIENDLY ECO-FRIENDLY QUALIFIED QUALIFIED COMPLIANT COMPLIANT INSURED INSURED LINUS WOOD LINUS WOOD ARBORIST ARBORIST

021 849040 021423 849040 09 9220 09 423 9220 treecontracts@clear.net.nz treecontracts@clear.net.nz

COMPLETE COMPLETE ARBORICULTURAL ARBORICULTURAL SERVICE SERVICE Dangerous & large Dangerous & large tree removals tree removals Pine/Macrocarpa Pine/Macrocarpa shelter belts shelter belts High volume chipping High volume chipping General pruning General pruning Reports & tree contracts Reports & tree contracts

 Property (Sales, Purchase, Lease)  Trusts  Litigation  Commercial  Family  Company

Principal: Luke Kemp LLB, B.com, Dip. Hort. cnr Matua & Oraha Road, Huapai Tel (09) 412 6000 | Fax (09) 412 6016 luke@kempsolicitors.co.nz

winter wa r m i n g d e a l s

For these and more fantastic in store specials visit our store at 2 Morrison Drive. Denkavit Plus Calf Milk Replacer

• Premium “full cream” replacer with added colostrum. • Good curding characteristics. • Contains vitamin and mineral premix.

$80.50*

John Bull Cougar or Wildcat safety boots

Annandale Lucerne chaff 20kg

Buy either pair of safety boots and receive a pair of genuine Blundstone Bloody Comfortable Socks FREE– and we’ll take 10% off the price to boot! Both have Nitrile soles for superior grip in wet greasy conditions.

• Performance fibre. • Natural, full leaf, dust-free Lucerne. • Highly palatable, natural protein feed.

Cougar -Moulded bull-bar scuff cap -Nitrile outer sole with 6mm deep tread to resist clogging -Engineered toe-spring for reduced wearer fatigue

FANTASTIC PRICE!

20kg bag

*price excludes GST and tonne purchases only.

Wildcat -Scratch guard on toe area and moulded kick guard -Nitrile outer sole with 5mm deep tread to resist clogging - Defined heel for site safety on ladders

$31.95 save $3

AN90 portable energiser with SOLAR

Dog Kennel and Run Complete

• Solar powered during the day and by internal battery when sunlight levels are low which can more than double the battery life! • 0.12 J output energy (0.16 J stored energy). • Powers up to 2km of fence line.

• Fully galvanized run • Rubber floor mat • Strong skid frame for ease of moving. • Tough moulded polyethylene kennel. • Full range of colours.

NEW!

FREE!

Purchase any Siesta plastic dog bed and receive a new sofa cushion at half price! • Durable plastic construction. • Light and easy to wash. • Range of sizes.

SAVE $40!

Special price $219 save $30

GREAT Value at $759 complete

Donaghys 20ltr G360 Glyphosate Weed Spray

Hurricane 2.5 HT Wire 25kg Coil

• Donaghys Sprayoff Premium Glyphosate 360 20lt. • Spray those weeds and grasses now! • Non residual herbicide. • For non selective control of some brushweeds, most perennial and annual weeds, broadleaf and grasses.

• NZ made wire carrying the Wiremark guarantee of excellence. • Self healing zinc/aluminium blend for both general and coastal use. • Wiremark wire is the professionals’ choice.

Special price $129 save $20

price $99 EXCLUDES G.S.T

beds priced from $34.95 SELLING OUT QUICK – BE FAST!

Grubs Rubber Boots • Manufactured with a Chloroprene Rubber upper to give maximum insulation. • Additional 3mm over the toe and ankle for extra protection. • The GRUB’S TOUGHTRAX suspension system has a stiffened sole, for peddle operation and rigged 6mm bar style lugged sole for grip.

ONLY $99!

Straw • Conventional bale size • Great for animal bedding or mulch for the garden

Our Price $14.95 per bale

2-4 Morrison Drive, 09 Fax 425 7754 2-4 Morrison Drive, PO BoxWarkworth. 378, Warkworth. PhPhone 09 425 7754 09 425 7560 thefar

Call us to arrange delivery (09) 425 7754 email: thefarmcentre@xtra.co.nz

Phone Orders Welcome!

Prices valid until Saturday 28 August 2010 or while stocks last. All prices include GST unless otherwise stated.