MANAGEMENT
MACHINERY & PRODUCTS
Milking trifecta a juggling act.
Support keeps arable operation on the ‘Case’.
PAGE 18
PAGE 22
NEWS Tarrifs remain a big threat for hort industry. PAGE 5
TO ALL FARMERS, FOR ALL FARMERS DECEMBER 15, 2020: ISSUE 716
www.ruralnews.co.nz
NZ avoids China stoush SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz
A DEEPENING trade spat between China and Australia shouldn’t impact New Zealand, according to trade analyst Stephen Jacobi. He says NZ and China have a strong relationship, but “from time to time, there will be things on which we disagree”.
“New Zealand has made its views known in a careful and diplomatic way,” he told Rural News. “That should not affect our trade relations.” China/Australia relations have been deteriorating since Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison called for an international inquiry into the origins of the Covid-19 pandemic in April, a move that Beijing called “polit-
ical manipulation”. Since then the two sides have fought over several issues, particularly trade. China has slapped Australian winemakers with heavy tariffs, and banned, delayed or taxed exports of other products, including beef and barley. Australian exporters are worried that tariffs could spread to dairy exports.
Jacobi believes there is always potential for things to get worse if care is not taken. “We hope Australia and China can get back to talking directly to each other as soon as possible,” he told Rural News. “It does no good for New Zealand to see close friends and partners at odds with each other. Both China and Aus-
Locals step up! NEW ZEALANDERS have heard the call from the country’s fruitgrowers to come pick their crops due to the lack of overseas workers because of the Covid-induced border shutdown. Summerfruit NZ says it’s had a “magnificent response” to the call for help from locals with this season’s harvest. “With the pandemic closing borders to international backpackers and RSE workers, it was feared that there would be a shortage of people keen on moving to the regions to supplement local workers at harvest time,” says chief executive Richard Palmer. He says New Zealanders have heard the call and responded in greater numbers than hoped for. – See story page 9. PHOTO CREDIT: PAUL SUTHERLAND PHOTOGRAPHY.
tralia have recently signed the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), as has New Zealand – we should all focus more on deepening our co-operation in this way.” China remains New Zealand’s biggest export market. In 2020, New Zealand’s exports to China exceeded $16.7 billion, which was more than double that of our next biggest export market, Australia. The top three exports were dairy products (milk powder, butter, and cheese), wood (logs, wood, and wood articles), meat (meat and edible offal). Last week, Fonterra chief executive Miles Hurrell said the dairy co-operative has a strong reliance on China and is watching geopolitical tensions closely. “But we don’t get our nose involved in such disputes,” he says. Jacobi doesn’t expect China to target NZ companies or products. “There would be no reason for China to do this,” he says. He also points out that NZ products enjoy a great reputation in China. “We maintain positive political relations despite occasional disagree ments. There is no reason for this to change.” Earlier this month, the NZ Government raised concerns about China’s use on social media of a doctored image of an Australian soldier holding a knife to a child’s throat. Last month, NZ signed a Five Eyes statement critical of a Chinese Government resolution, which led to the disqualification of four pro-democracy lawmakers in Hong Kong.
TAKE OFF WITH SUZUKI THIS SUMMER PORTABLE AND PRICED TO GO! VISIT MARINE.SUZUKI.CO.NZ/OFFERS OR YOUR LOCAL PARTICIPATING DEALER NEAR YOU. OFFER ENDS 28 FEB 2021 OR WHILE STOCKS LAST
DF 2.5S $999
DF4/5/6A $1,999
DT15AS $2,899
User friendly with 360° steering.
Can be transported and stored on 3 sides.
The lightest two stroke in its class.
PREVENT. PROTECT. PERFORM. A range of sheep vaccines made for New Zealand conditions.
For nearly 80 years, MSD have been developing sheep vaccines for New Zealand farmers. We have a extensive range of vaccines to help you improve flock performance. Vaccines that help protect against losses from Toxoplasma, Campylobacter, Salmonella, and that are proven to increase lamb numbers1,2,3. And we’ve developed them right here in New Zealand, specifically for our sheep and our conditions.
ASK YOUR VET FOR MSD SHEEP PERFORMANCE VACCINES
CONTROL THE RISK OF TOXOPLASMA
CONTROL THE RISK OF CAMPYLOBACTER
CONTROL THE RISK OF SALMONELLA
INCREASE LAMB NUMBERS
AVAILABLE ONLY UNDER VETERINARY AUTHORISATION ACVM No’s: A4769, A9535, A7886, A9927. Schering-Plough Animal Health Ltd. Phone: 0800 800 543. www.msd-animal-health.co.nz NZ-CVX-200900006 © 2020 Intervet International B.V. All Rights Reserved. 1. Wilkins M, O’Connell E. (1992) Vaccination of sheep against Toxoplasma abortion, Surveillance, 19:4,20-23 2. Anderson, P (2001) The implications of Campylobacter Infections in Ewe Flocks. Proc 31st Annual Seminar, Society of Sheep and Beef Cattle Veterinarians., NZVA p31-40 3. Geldard, H, Scaramuzzi, R.J., & Wilkins, J.F. (1984) Immunization against polyandroalbumin leads to increases in lambing and tailing percentages. New Zealand Veterinary Journal, 32:1-2, 2-5
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
NEWS 3 ISSUE 716
www.ruralnews.co.nz
Changing world for red meat PETER BURKE peterb@ruralnews.co.nz
NEWS ��������������������������������������1-14 AGRIBUSINESS ���������������������� 15 HOUND, EDNA ����������������������� 16 CONTACTS ������������������������������ 16 OPINION ����������������������������� 16-17 MANAGEMENT ����������������18-19 ANIMAL HEALTH ������������������ 20 MACHINERY AND PRODUCTS ����������������������� 21-22 RURAL TRADER ��������������22-23
HEAD OFFICE Top Floor, 29 Northcroft Street, Takapuna, Auckland 0622 Phone: 09-307 0399 Fax: 09-307 0122 POSTAL ADDRESS PO Box 331100, Takapuna, Auckland 0740 Published by: Rural News Group Printed by: Inkwise NZ Ltd CONTACTS Editorial: editor@ruralnews.co.nz Advertising material: davef@ruralnews.co.nz Rural News online: www.ruralnews.co.nz Subscriptions: subsrndn@ruralnews.co.nz ABC audited circulation 79,553 as at 31.03.2019
A DRAMATICALLY changing world, in terms of the global economy and consumer preferences, is the focus for a new ten-year Red Meat Sector Strategy. The strategy is a partnership between the Meat Industry Association and Beef+Lamb NZ and is a revision of the first one, which was unveiled in 2011. Its vision is growing sustainable value with the outcome being greater profitability, sustainability and resilience across the sector. The new strategy also pushes for increased value for customers and consumers. The other outcomes are for greater social and economic benefits to NZ and a focus on enhancing the integrity and trust of the red meat sector. According to MIA and Beef+Lamb NZ, the aim is lift innovation and performance, build a platform to create and capture greater value for our products. The industry also wants to stimulate economic growth and employment and establish it as trusted guardians of animals, water and land – as well as enhancing the reputational capital of the red meat sector. Beef+Lamb NZ chief executive Sam McIvor says the first strategy, produced
Beef+Lamb NZ Sam McIvor and Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor at this year’s Ahuwhenua Awards ceremony.
in 2011, was all about the restructuring of the meat industry and trying to extract better profits along the value chain. “It was also quite focused on driving the uptake of technology on farm.” McIvor says in the last seven years there has been a huge shift in the way the entire sector operates with much greater cooperation and a realisation that working together has tangible benefits to all parties. He says a recent example of this was how well the sector handled the Covid lockdown. Beef+Lamb chair Andrew Morrison says the significance of the sector
coming together cannot be underestimated. He says this has led to a range of joint venture initiatives, not the least of which has been Taste Pure Nature – a brand platform to underpin exporters’ marketing programmes and enhance the positioning of New Zealand red meat. “MIA and Beef+Lamb NZ have been on the Taste Pure Nature journey together and it is working well,” he says. A word that seems to be centre stage in the primary sector at present is sustainability in all its forms. According to McIvor, a new world is emerging where there is greater knowl-
edge and interest about resources and how these are being used – especially in food production. “We see that gathering real momentum internationally and if we think about it historically when we used to talk to our foodies, climate change wasn’t a thing they were focused on,” he told Rural News. “But this is something that is changing quite quickly and is a real concern to people.” However, behind the focus on sustainability is a cost on farm. McIvor points to increasing compliance and regulatory costs all of which affect farm profitability. To that end, he says one of the objectives of the strategy is find a way of paying for these increased costs. The new strategy for the next five years has a particular emphasis on innovation on farm, as well as processing plants and in products. McIvor says the sector will look at improved market access for our product and how it can be differentiated from our competitors – as well as the obvious focus on sustainability. “The goal is to extract more value from our businesses to meet the higher cost structure and finding customers internationally that are willing to pay a bit more for our products because of their social attributes,” McIvor adds.
New RWNZ president ‘cheques’ in JESSICA MARSHALL jessica@ruralnews.co.nz
RURAL WOMEN New Zealand’s (RWNZ) new president is excited to be taking on the role. Gill Naylor, a South Island farmer, says RWNZ is a ‘vibrant organisation’. “I am excited to be standing on the shoulders of those that have been empowering rural communities since 1925.” Naylor says farming and rural New Zealand have always been a big factor in her life. “I grew up on my parents’ sheep and beef farm about 20 min-
of payment is pututes north east of Inverting extra stress onto cargill.” rural communities In the 1980s, she and we are calling for moved to her husband’s cheques to continue to Central Otago family be accepted until every farm. rural household and Naylor told Rural business has consisNews one of the biggest tent, reliable internet issues the new board access.” will be tackling in the Naylor says that coming months is the New RWNZ president the use of cheques is use of cheques in the Gill Naylor. very high as a payment rural sector after several major banks announced they would method in more rural areas, but “the banks and other institutions have phase out their use. “Removing cheques as a form seemingly not taken the needs of
rural communities into consideration when making these decisions.” She says RWNZ is currently seeking feedback from its members on the impact of climate change on rural communities. Naylor is joined by three new board members, Emma Higgins, Malvina Dick, and Claire Williamson. “The new board is a great mix of experience and knowledge from within RWNZ and skills from outside the organisation which is vital to us being able to continue to strengthen and support rural communities,” says chief executive, Liz Pennington.
The tried and true management aid; ram harnesses used at tupping is cheap insurance to check ewes are cycling and rams are working. With harnessed rams, mated ewes can be taken off high quality “flushing” feed and onto maintenance rations. They can also be used to NO MATE Teaser Harnesses are for use with MATINGMARK Harnesses to physically prevent mating. Rams can be temporarily made into teasers before being used for mating. Save on the cost of vasectomies and feed, and get the benefits of earlier and/or condensed lambing and higher lambing percentage*.
identify non-pregnant ewes and enable ewes to be split into lambing groups for savings in pasture/ feed costs and improved lambing management.
*As shown by Vet Services Hawkes Bay trial work.
Insist on the World’s Best! Available from all leading vet/farm supply stores
View the “NO MATE” and “MATINGMARK Harness” videos for more info, including how to fit
RURTEC.COM 0800 RURTEC
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
4 NEWS
Wage subsidy case haunts Alliance Group DAVID ANDERSON
THE COUNTRY’S largest meat processor is trying to shake off accusations of bludging off the taxpayer over its refusal to fully pay back the wage subsidy claimed during the Covid lockdown. Alliance Group is facing a private prosecution by self-proclaimed professional campaigner Simon Lusk for only returning part of the $34.3 million Covid-19 wage subsidy it claimed. In September, Lusk sought leave of the court to bring a private prosecution against the South Island meat company’s non-executive directors for Alliance’s “disgraceful” failure to completely repay the wage subsidy. He has now expanded his case to all of the company’s directors – as well as a yetunnamed government minister. Alliance – along with other meat processors – was declared as an essential food-producing service and permitted to keep operating during New Zealand’s March-imposed Covid-19 lockdown. In September, the farmerowned co-op said it had repaid 50% of the wage subsidy claimed. It has since then paid back another $4m, leaving it $13m short of what it claimed in total. Lusk’s private prosecution is now also targeting government ministers. The Minister of Social Development had direct oversight of the Covid19 wage subsidy scheme but it was
directed by the Minister of Finance. “My lawyer is currently working on which minister has failed in their ministerial obligations and which court it would be appropriate to adjudicate on whether they have fulfilled their obligations,” he told the NZ Herald. Lusk claims Alliance did not to fit the eligibility criteria for the wage subsidy. “The wage subsidy was for companies that had an actual or projected fall in revenue of more than 30%. They either have had a fall in revenue of more than 30%, in which case they are entitled to keep the entire amount, or they have not had a fall in revenue of more than 30% and they should pay back the entire amount.” Last month, Alliance announced an underlying profit of $27.4m for the 2019-20. However, adjusted for a oneoff expected historical wage claim of $20 million, annual profit was only $7.5m before tax. However, Alliance chief executive David Surveyor told Rural News Lusk’s claims are unfounded and show no understanding of the process being run by the Ministry of Social Development. “Alliance Group has always been open and upfront about the wage subsidy application, which has been widely shared with the public. We have been in ongoing constructive discussions with MSD about the application of the subsidy and stated from the outset that
Alliance Group chief executive David Surveyor says the meat co-op has already returned $21 million of the original $34 million it claimed in wage subsidy.
we would return any funds not used to pay people. “In line with that commitment, the co-operative has already returned $21 million of the original $34 million that was not required for the purpose of
retaining jobs and income,” Surveyor says. “The remaining wage subsidy balance is sitting in a bank account by agreement with MSD, awaiting a decision by them as to our eligibility.
SHEEP JETTER
Sheep dipping... made easier!
We publicly committed in our yearend financial result that none of this money will be recognised or used by the company until discussions with MSD are complete.” Surveyor says the wage subsidy meant Alliance was able to keep employing its workforce during lockdown and ensure their earnings were not impacted. “We were also able to continue paying those people with underlying health conditions or aged over 70 who were unable to work during the lockdown and those on stand-by to cover absenteeism,” he adds. “Our application for the wage subsidy was also supported and endorsed by the New Zealand Meat Workers Union.” Surveyor added that the farmer co-op predominantly processes sheep and the nature of its processing meant it was more severely affected by the Covid-19 operating restrictions than other meat companies. Alliance wasn’t the only meat company to claim the wage subsidy. Silver Fern Farms was paid $43.2m and the Anzco Group got $17.3m. Several other smaller meat companies also claimed it. However, Silver Fern Farms has now repaid the subsidy in full. Meanwhile, other large meat industry players did not claim the subsidy – including Affco, Greenlea and Hellaby.
Are you hitting your target market?
Contact your local sales representative for more information
• Manufactured from stainless steel • Electric Eye • 800-1000 sheep per hour • Fantastic penetration
Auckland
Stephen Pollard ....... Ph 021-963 166
Waikato
Ted Darley ................ Ph 021-832 505
Wellington
Ron Mackay ............ Ph 021-453 914
Christchurch Kaye Sutherland .... Ph 021-221 1994 ■ BREAKING NEWS ■ MACHINERY REVIEWS ■ MANAGEMENT STORIES ■ AND MUCH MORE...
Innovative Agriculture Equipment
Serving NZ Farmers since 1962
7685
$
+ GST
Price includes Jetter, Hose Kit, Pump/Motor and freight
www.pppindustries.co.nz / sales@pppindustries.co.nz / 0800 901 902
RURAL NEWS TO ALL FARMERS, FOR ALL FARMERS
www.ruralnews.co.nz
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
NEWS 5
Tarrifs remain a big threat PETER BURKE peterb@ruralnews.co.nz
HORTICULTURAL EXPORTS have increased by 25% over the last two years and tariffs on these exports are down by 29%. However, New Zealand is by no means out of the woods in terms of protectionist policies – due mainly to the coronavirus pandemic. That’s the conclusion of a special report on barriers to NZ horticulture exports commissioned by the Horticultural Export Authority (HEA) – the organisation that represents all horticultural exporters. It shows, since the last report of this nature two years ago, horticultural exports have grown to $4.52 million. In the same period, the tariffs that NZ pays on these exports are now $152 million, down from $214 million in 2018. In those two years, kiwifruit exports in value terms increased by 36%, apples by 20%, onions 60%, avocados 15% and potatoes by 11%. However, cherries and buttercup squash exports were down. The main focus of the report is the issue of trade barriers and nontariff measures. It singles out India as the country which imposes the highest tariffs on our horticultural exports (43%). However, the worry for NZ, in terms of trade barriers, is our biggest single market for horticultural exports – the European Union. Currently NZ pays
HEA chief executive Simon Hegarty says they are noticing a rise in other non-tariff measures, which is a big concern for the industry.
MINISTER ZOOMS IN ON TRADE DAMIEN O’CONNOR, in his dual capacity of Agriculture and Trade Minister, officially launched the 250 page report on barriers to horticultural export trade before a group of about 60 industry representatives in Wellington last week. He says NZ has a lot of work to do at the far end of the world to keep nations focused on the need to support free trade and international rules based trade. O’Connor concedes that there will be challenges to get FTA’s over the line. “We are in a challenging time. We are probably facing more barriers in spite of our efforts to support the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and to get other economies to support us to get the WTO up to where it belongs,” he told Rural News. “NZ is doing its bit to maintain contact
at least $61 million (FOB) in tariffs to the EU. At present, NZ
with the relevant ministers despite the pandemic. I have been given a list of European ministers to a call over January during my holiday. “Remaining in contact with those people is really important at a time when they will be very domestic focused.” O’Connor says Covid has changed the world and food security has become a huge focus for many nations. He says there is a risk that some will put up inappropriate trade barriers to protect their domestic food suppliers. O’Connor says NZ has to counter that argument and also demonstrate that it can supply high quality, sustainably produced food. @rural_news
• Ideal for Cattle Troughs • High Flow • Side/Bottom Mount • Detatch to Clean • Compact/Robust
countries. “While we are seeing a drop in tariffs we are also noticing a rise in other non-tariff measures, which is a big concern for the industry,” Hegarty says. “Many of these are ‘technical’ barriers which get applied to our products and are unnecessary barriers to our trade.” He says the outcome of Brexit remains a problem for NZ and warns that there will be some disruption to our exports whether there is a deal or no deal between the UK and EU. Hegarty says there are already problems in the supply chain with shipping delays and Brexit will exacerbate the problem.
Email: info@hecton.co.nz Visit our website www.hecton.co.nz for a full list of products CALL IN & SEE US | 73 PRESTON STREET INVERCARGILL PHONE: 03 215 8558
SHEEP HANDLER AND LEAD UP RACE
• Fastest handler on the market • Ideal for dagging, crutching & foot trimming
CRUTCHING TRAILER Hecton Contractors – Tandem covered crutching trailer
facebook.com/ruralnews
is in the process of negotiating an FTA with the EU and the hope
holding their breath. Simon Hegarty, chief executive of HEA, says there has been some relief from tariffs with the advent of the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which has seen 80% of tariffs to Japan virtually eliminated. Apple exports to Japan are still subject to tariffs, but these are due to be phased out over the next eight years. FTAs with Canada, Mexico and Peru have also helped and the recent RCEP agreement will also have a positive impact on our exports with an agreement to clear goods faster at borders of participating
is that some of these barriers will be removed, but no one it seems is
• Ideal for Small/Low Demand Troughs • Low Flow • Above/Below Water Mount • Built in Check-Valve
0800 JOBE VALVES jobevalves.com
• Ideal for Compartment Troughs/Tanks • High Flow • Top Mount • Detach to Clean • Compact/Robust
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
6 NEWS
New airstrip big win for community A BIT of a dark cloud has turned into a silver lining for Nuku and Bart Hadfield and their wider farming community. The award-winning farmers Mangaroa Station from the Ruakituri Valley, inland from Wairoa, were looking to do a “bit of a fix-up” on the decadesold airstrip on their 1506ha farm to ensure they got the necessary fertiliser on the ground at the optimum time. They called on Andrew Hogarth from Farmers Air to have a chat, quickly followed by Gus Thompson from AF Thompson Contracting – specialists in roading and earth moving.
Fast forward and they’ve now got a brand new strip with a partitioned 120-tonne super bin that has already been well-used by neighbours. “The original strip was really just a paddock called ‘the airstrip’,” says Nuku Hadfield. With forestry one of the first to be hit by Covid, Thompson had his big gear sitting ready to go in the yard. With lockdown pending, the pressure was on to get things in place. Stevenson, who previously owned Farmers Air, had flown off the old strip 40 years before, talked with Thompson and instead of a band aid
The Facts: THE 2021 East Coast Farming Expo is a two-day mid-week gathering for sheep and beef producers. It’s held annually at the Wairoa A&P Showgrounds and includes exhibits, outdoor demonstrations and seminars. WHAT: East Coast Farming Expo WHEN: February 24-25, 2021 MORE INFO: www.eastcoastexpo.co.nz
fix, the team ran the strip the other way and futureproofed the farm for next 50 years. With a $200,000 investment, the airstrip became their ‘big spend project’ for 2020. “The neighbours are rapt,” says Had-
TR ROTOWIPER
Trailing model towed by a 4 wheel bike
FANTASTIC NEW FEATURES! • Single height adjustment • Roller drive disengagement • Fold-up drawbar • Tank leveller adjustment
Bart and Nuku Hadfield (centre) with Blake Charteris from Charteris Choppers and Penny Wilson at the 2020 East Coast Farming Expo
• New strong design frame • New stub axle hub arrangement • All covers now stainless steel
Rotovacuum: 350lt bin, Stihl BG86 blower motor. Great suction to clean your paddock or garden.
field. “Already five have used it and by the end of November 1000 tonnes had been flown off it. “Having the big bin means the fert is there and ready to go when the weather clears. For any farm, fert is one of your biggest expenses and it can make a hell of a difference if you can’t get it on when you want.” The entire project took six weeks to complete. There was a lot of earth to be moved for the 500m strip and a slight delay when they had to wait for the bin but once on the property it took just two days to install. On Thompson’s recommendation, the strip
was metalled, making it virtually all-weather. “Normally you wouldn’t be able to get fert on in July and August because the grass strips are too wet but this is more like a road and dries out in half a day,” Hadfield adds. “We are just so rapt with it, especially when we saw our fert going off it in full loads.” Hogarth says the newbuild is perfect for his crew. “It’s all weather, it complies with best practice, it means we can carry full loads and with two bins we can put two different customers on the strip on one day giving us the capacity to
sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz
48 Bremners Road PO Box 333 Ashburton www.rotowiper.com P: 03-308 4497 M: 027-311 9471 E: rotowipersales1@gmail.com
ing better productivity all round.” Other farmers have been by to look at the development and the pilots are also singing its praises, describing it as the best strip they’ve flown. “They work in a high-risk environment, and we feel better knowing it is safer. It is a winwin for us.” The Hadfields run 14,000 stock units on the farm, including 6200 Romney ewes and 500 Angus breeding cows, and in 2015 won the Ahuwhenua Trophy for Māori Excellence in Sheep and Beef Farming. @rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews
US DOLLAR WILL SET PACE SUDESH KISSUN
Rotocart: RC270, RC300 & RC500. 3 sizes, super strong rotationally moulded in our factory.
keep fert in front of us,” he says. A plane can distribute 25-30 tonnes of fert an hour – the equivalent to a truck and trailer unit. “When you are carting from Wairoa or Gisborne with a two-to-three hour turnaround, you need three on the road. That in itself is challenging but the bin holds four loads. “Trucks can also deliver fert while the plane comes and goes.” Hogarth says the Hadfields have made is an investment for them and future generations, “While it wasn’t done for the community good, it is actually serving the community well allow-
THE US currency will determine how the milk payout plays out, says BNZ senior economist Doug Steel. He told Rural News that, in some ways, the recent GDT price strength looks like catch up due to the recent declines in the US dollar.
A lower US dollar tends to lift product prices that are denominated in that currency. “Of course, the flipside of a lower US dollar is a higher NZ dollar, while a higher NZ dollar – in itself – tends to put downward pressure on milk price, it very much needs to be seen in the context of product price movements in offshore markets. “These things do not move in
isolation. It is the balance that matters.” Steel points out that it was no coincidence that the 2013-14 record $8.40 milk price was paid when the NZD/USD was above 0.80. “That said, a higher NZD/USD will limit the upside to domestic milk prices, but likely more so for next season than the current one.”
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
NEWS 7
Is another $7.14 payout on the cards? SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz
THIS SEASON’S farmgate milk price could match last season’s $7.14/ kgMS payout, despite the carnage caused by Covid19. BNZ senior economist Doug Steel told Rural News that this would be a remarkable achievement. “Dairy prices have firmed up in recent months, six months ago there were dire forecasts,” he says. “If global prices maintain recent strength, our calculations suggest this season’s milk price will be close to last season’s $7.14.” BNZ is forecasting a milk payout of $7/kgMS for the 2020-21 season. Last month Fonterra lifted its milk payout midpoint range by 20c to $7. Fonterra chief executive Miles Hurrell says China is continuing to recover well from Covid19 and this is reflected in recent Global Dairy Trade (GDT) auctions. Hurrell noted strong demand from Chinese buyers, especially for whole milk powder, a key driver of the milk price. Steel says that New Zealand farmers enter the second half of the dairy season with less trepidation than at the start of the season in June. “The economic bounce back from the initial Covid restrictions around the world has been stronger than many predicted. “This, including Asia doing better than elsewhere, has set a better
backdrop for dairy demand.” GDT prices have increased about 12% since the start of the season. Covid vaccine hopes have also buoyed risk appetite and the prospect of better medium-term economic conditions, Steel says. “It brings the potential for better dairy demand and prices ahead. “There are already signs of this demand with the number of unsatisfied bidders in the earlyDecember GDT auction reaching its highest level since April 2019.” However, Covid remains the biggest threat with many countries still struggling to contain the virus. The food service sector, including restaurants and bars are struggling to remain open under governmentimposed restrictions. There are also geopolitical risks and trade tensions simmer. Steel says the supply side is important too. “Global milk supply has been growing, but not excessively so,” he says. “NZ milk production in October was only 0.3% higher than a year ago, a marked slowing as some areas got a bit dry after what was a strong start to the season. “To the extent that this slowdown has helped support prices recently, it may not last long, as recent rain should see NZ milk production comparisons to a year earlier improve somewhat ahead.” BNZ is forecasting
milk production for the entire season to be “a touch over 1%” over last year.
Fonterra chief executive Miles Hurrell says China is continuing to recover well and this is reflected in recent Global Dairy Trade (GDT) auctions.
Nature does her part
when nurture happens first Caring for your crop at key times ensures its future takes care of itself. Exirel® uses clever chemistry to protect fodder brassicas from destructive pests like Diamond back moth, Leaf miner and Aphid at the key stages of growth. It’s gentle on key beneficial insects. And a healthier crop can lead to quality stock. So protect your crop with Exirel® and give Mother Nature the head start she needs. Visit www.fmccrop.nz for more information.
Read us until the cows come home!
www.ruralnews.co.nz
ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS. FMC and Exirel® are trade marks of FMC Corporation or an affiliate. © 2019 FMC Corporation. All rights reserved. 8/19
FMC New Zealand Limited Phone: 0800 658 080 www.fmccrop.nz
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
8 NEWS
Covid leads farm operator to pivot towards more inbound excursions NIGEL MALTHUS
MIMICKING THE old NZ Tourism ad from the 1980s, a farm tourism specialist is urging New Zealanders – who can’t travel overseas due to Covid restrictions – not to ‘leave home until they have seen the country’. Urban New Zealanders who enjoy shows like Country Calendar should get out and see farming first-hand, says Farm To Farm Tours managing director Ross Macmillan. Rangiora-based Macmillan is a former farm consultant who has forged a business out of arranging and conducting agriculture-themed tours, both incoming and outgoing. He was speaking at the
end of a two-week “Mainland Muster” tour for a group of about 20 mostly regular customers, taking a look at our primary production throughout the South Island – as far south as Wakatipu. The tour – which Macmillan conducted personally – and two shorter tours of Southland, are the first activity for his company in about eight months following the Covid lockdown. When Covid hit, Farm To Farm Tours had to cancel about 10 overseas tours and several incoming jaunts. Macmillan told Rural News they spent the first couple of months of the lockdown in the “slow and depressing” business of refunding people and
recapturing money from airlines, then the next six months “readjusting” his business. They also had to lay a few people off. “We’ll have a few more tours next year, but it’s nothing like the scale of business we had previously,” he says. “We’ve been going 33 years, and this is the first time we’ve had any dramatic shock like this so we decided do a few tours for our New Zealand clients and anyone else interested.” Among the Mainland Muster group was a couple who took the tour because Covid had forced them to cancel a Farm to Farm tours to UK and Scandinavia. Along with regular tourist attractions, the
4NZ2 EVOS
Buy 4 specially marked Evos & get a free ICON FX or S12 handpiece 1
Head in to your local Heiniger stockist and buy 4 specially marked Evos
2
Visit heiniger.co.nz/evos4nz2
3
Complete the form and choose your free handpiece!*
Be quick, limited number of Icon FX & S12s available!
Terms & Conditions: This promotion is valid in New Zealand from 09/11/2020 while stocks last. Only
Evos which are specially marked with a promotional sticker on the box are eligible for this offer. Proof of purchase and valid serial numbers must be provided in the online form to redeem your free handpiece.
*Comb and cutter not included and your option to choose between an Icon FX Mechanical Handpiece
and S12 Electric Handpiece will depend on the availability of stock allocated to this promotion. Once the allocation of a specific handpiece is exhausted, you will automatically recieve the remaining handpiece.
Heiniger New Zealand | (03) 349 8282 | heiniger.co.nz
Ross Macmillan (kneeling, front) and his tour group take a break at Rakaia on the last day of their Mainland Muster farm tour of the South Island. NIGEL MALTHUS
group visited a sheep and beef stud at Cheviot, a merino wool operation in the Awatere Valley branching into merino lamb, mussels at Havelock, and intensive horticulture around Nelson. On the West Coast they saw dairying, gold mining and sphagnum moss. Around Wanaka and Wakatipu the tour took in fruit orchards and the burgeoning cherry industry, a deer farm that also runs as a hunting safari park, and the historic Walter Peak Station. They also visited a farming/rail-trail tourism venture in Maniototo. At Oamaru, the group visited Top Flite, a cropping
outfit which has forged a niche as pet bird and other pet feed suppliers. “I’ve watched that expand over a couple of decades from a farming business to an addedvalue business that’s doing very well,” Macmillan says. Back inland to the Mackenzie Country, the group visited a 19,000ha merino station using a variety of the area’s iconic lupins – which grow on high-aluminium soils in the district toxic to other plants – as stock feed. The last day saw visits to Bill Davey’s extensive cropping operation near Rakaia and also to one of
the top dairy farms of the district. “One thing that came through to me was these are all top farmers doing wonderful jobs and looking after the environment. They are highly productive and keeping their country afloat in many ways,” said Macmillan. “I think more people should actually see these sorts of things – not just other farmers, but also people from urban backgrounds.” Macmillan believes business will pick up very swiftly when the borders re-open and vaccines are available. “You can’t clip the
wings of people and they will still have an inquiring mind about the rest of the world and there’ll be even more intense interest in New Zealand from abroad, because the way we’ve handled Covid,” he says. In the meantime, MacMillan is enjoying showing Kiwis some amazing places and farmers doing amazing jobs. “People have perhaps forgotten about farming a wee bit or pushed it aside saying we’ll be right,” he adds. “But, basically, it’s what’s keeping our economy going at the moment, particularly without the inbound tourism.”
AD ANGERS ANIMAL ACTIVISTS AN ANIMAL rights group is incensed by the Ministry for Primary Industries’ (MPI) decision to hire a new animal export manager. A listing for the job, which was uploaded on 30 November, comes amid a review of live exports that was announced by the Government back in June 2019. SAFE campaign manager Bianka Atlas says her organisation is concerned because a policy review is still ongoing. “The ministry is operating as if they already know what the outcome of the review is,” she claims. Atlas says that while the Prime Minister has expressed concerns about live export, “all the signals
her Government and MPI are sending suggest this is a trade that will continue.” However, MPI veterinarian and director of animal health and welfare Dr Chris Rodwell told Rural News the advertised position is filling a vacant role. The advertisement refers to a ‘period of growth’, which SAFE claims will mean a continuation of live exports. Rodwell says the ad refers to the need to deliver on additional conditions and requirements set out in the Heron Review. This was released in October this year, following the tragic loss of 42 people and thousands of cattle with the
sinking of the Gulf Livestock 1 off the coast of Japan in September. Rodwell says that live export not only refers to the transporting of cattle by sea. “New Zealand exports a range of live animals, mainly via air to support developing countries including our Pacific neighbours.” Rodwell adds that MPI’s advice for the wider policy review of live animal exports is still being finalised. “The results of the Heron review will feed into that advice,” he says. Once complete, it will be then be provided to ministers and cabinet to make a decision. – Jessica Marshall
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
NEWS 9
Cut the ‘No 8 wire’ cliché PETER BURKE peterb@ruralnews.co.nz
NEW ZEALANDERS should stop extolling the virtues of the No 8 wire concept. Scottie Chapman, head of Spring Sheep Dairy, says the No 8 wire model was a success story of our past when, because of travel times, New Zealand was a long way from anywhere and we had to find a way to improvise However, Chapman believes the link to improvisation in the form of the No 8 wire notion – from the past to the way we operate today with modern technology and transport – is completely wrong. “The No 8 concept was important 150 years ago because it helped get us where we are today,” he told Rural News.
“But now the world is more sophisticated and we want to showcase our innovation and quality of our agricultural systems and products. Gone are the days of selling slabs of meat around the world.” Chapman says improvisation isn’t a substitute for innovation and NZ needs to tell good stories about its primary sector. In terms of storytelling, Chapman believes marketing slogans are of no value because they lack authenticity. He says NZ has a good and beautiful authentic story to tell and one that resonates with consumers. He points specifically to the Maori concept of Kaitiaki. “Kaitiaki is authentic NZ and is one thing we can talk about; the guardianship and how it all works and without doubt
are sustainable. He believes sustainability is “not an option” for NZ. “It is something we need to do and all it is doing the right thing...the right thing for the environment, the right thing for animals and doing the right thing for the consumers,” Chapman
that is of great value to NZ because it is really authentic, is different and it has a mystique about it that is really positive.” In terms of the consumer, Chapman believes NZ must embrace sustainability, with people who buy our food looking to ensure our products and production systems
Scottie Chapman believes the ‘No 8 wire’ notion on improvisation is from the past and completely wrong to the way we operate today.
TIRED OF HIGH FARM
VEHICLE COSTS? IT’S TIME TO GO YAMAHA.
Local interest picks up INDUSTRY BODY Summerfruit NZ says it’s had a “magnificent response” to the call for help from locals with this season’s harvest. “With the pandemic closing borders to international backpackers and RSE workers, it was feared that there would be a shortage of people keen on moving to the regions to supplement local workers at harvest time,” Richard Palmer, Summerfruit NZ’s chief executive says. Palmer says the industry body has collaborated with Ministry of Social Development, Ministry for Primary Industries, other industry organisations, councils and HortNZ to raise public awareness of the shortage. He says New Zealanders have heard the call and responded in greater numbers than hoped for. “The response overall across the summerfruit regions of Hawke’s Bay, Marlborough and Central Otago has been fantastic and many growers and packers have received far more applications than they would normally expect at this time of year.” However, Palmer says there are still pockets of orchards that are having difficulty in attracting sufficient numbers of people. “Mother Nature dictates when the season starts. This year it has been quite changeable and now looks to be three to five days ahead of 2019. That means the Cromwell Basin growers, where many export cherry orchards can be found, expect to start picking around 8-9 December.” The cherry harvest usually lasts around six weeks, straddling Christmas and New Year, and is in full swing in January, with other summerfruit crops increasing in volume around then. “Keeping people on board for the full cherry crop and then the other summerfruit crops is a major concern,” Palmer says. “In the past, students work through to mid to late January and then international backpackers have filled their roles. We need to make sure the incentives are there to keep people employed as long as the work is available.”
explains. “There will be a prize for the first to get there. Even if there wasn’t, it’s still what we should be doing,” he adds. “I think you’ll find that consumers will more than happily pay for it – even if they don’t – it is about the social licence to operate.”
LOW COST OF ENTRY
ASSET PROTECTION
PROVEN RELIABILITY
LOW COST OF OWNERSHIP
ZERO TO PAY
SECURE YOUR
3 YEAR
150 HR
FOR 12 MONTHS 4.95% P.A FIXED RATE
*
36 MONTH LOAN TERM
FARM
ASSETS
WITH OFF-ROAD RIDER INSURANCE AND YMI**
SERVICE INTERVALS
GENUINE FULL FACTORY WARRANTY
AVAILABLE FOR ALL MODELS
ON ATV & ROV
ON ATV & ROV
COMMERCIAL APPLICANTS ONLY 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
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.
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
10 NEWS
Kiwifruit in the fast lane intel will help drive the outcome of the breeding programme of the new joint venture, it will also be a strongly sciencebased programme. The headquarters for KBC will be in Te Puke, but research will be carried out in Motueka in the South Island and also at Plant and Foods facility in Auckland and at Kerikeri
PETER BURKE peterb@ruralnews.co.nz
ZESPRI AND Plant and Food Research are discussing forming a 50/50 joint venture to fast track the development of breeding new cultivars of kiwifruit. A proposal is before the boards of both organisations to form a standalone Kiwifruit Breeding Centre (KBC). The aim is to build on the present successful plant breeding partnership between the two entities, but bring the best kiwifruit cultivars to the market faster. The KBC would have its own board comprising representatives of both Zespri and Plant and Food, plus some independent directors. It would have its own CEO and up to about 50 staff – drawn from the two organisations. The plan is in the process of being approved by the respective boards with staff being consulted on the process. If approved, the new joint venture would see the annual investment in kiwifruit plant breeding almost doubled to $50 million per annum. Zespri’s innovation and sustainability man-
ager Carol Ward told Rural News the present relationship between the two organisations has worked well with the commercialisation of G3 SunGold and red kiwifruit. “Now we want to go harder and faster,” she says. “With this proposed joint venture we are looking at bringing the best of global kiwifruit breeding science together with Zespri’s marketing expertise to be able to bring new varieties to market faster.” Ward says the plant breeding programme will be led by the extensive
y Hawkes Ba
Southland
consumer and market research and intelligence gathered by Zespri. She says it is building a deep understanding of consumers in Europe, Asia and North America. Ward adds that consumers have given a clear message that a healthy food product is critical to their needs. She says they are looking at when people eat kiwifruit – which often varies between markets. For example, in some cultures people tend to eat kiwifruit at breakfast time. “One of the significant opportunities we see is
Marlborough
to be able to provide kiwi berry variety – a small berry with edible skin that you can pop in your mouth – as more convenient to snack on and tastes delicious.” Ward says they know that parents are conscious about giving their children healthy products, while at the same time elderly folk want to age in a healthy way and kiwifruit is the ideal food for them. High on the agenda now for consumers is the sustainability of the product and Ward says that aligns with Zespri’s own values.
“What we know is that consumers who are interested in a healthy diet with good fruit are also really concerned about issues such as pollution, water quality, climate change, global warming, deforestation and biodiversity,” she adds. “We are now working actively with retailers to assure consumers that we are looking after our staff within the industry and have quality environmental policies. We are also working to remove nonrecyclable plastics from our packaging.” While Zespri’s market
They are using FENCEPRO Post drivers here.. And this is why • FENCEPRO has a modular build system so you can adapt your post driver to your local conditions and budget
Manawatu
• Proven to give trouble free operation, year after year – even in the most demanding circumstances
Wairarapa
• FENCEPRO post drivers has incredible resale value
Waikato
• Sold through a nationwide dealer network, so you have local knowledge and local support • Manufactured in New Zealand to world class engineering standards with meticulous detail to every detail.
Hastings
• User friendly and versatile, so you build fences faster and to a higher standard.
CERTIFICATE OF LICENCE
s Certificate of Licence grants the use of the New Zealand Made trademark as a trusted mark of authenticity for qualifying products of the following business
Otago
Farmgear Ltd
CALL US TODAY ON 0800 36 27 76
www.farmgear.co.nz
6738
30/06/2021
NCE NO. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BUY NEW ZEALAND MADE CAMPAIGN LTD
@rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews
The aim of the new Kiwifruit Breeding Centre (KBC) JV is to bring the best kiwifruit cultivars to the market faster.
Nelson
z.org.nz/farmgear
in Northland. Ward says trials will also continue in Italy to make sure any new cultivars can grow in Italian environmental conditions. She says this is in-line with Zespri’s strategic objective to have a 12-month supply operation.
EXPIRY DATE BUYNZ.ORG.NZ
FENCEPRO Tough • User-Friendly • Versatile
National MP Scott Simpson and Alex Quinn at the opening of Quinn Engineering’s new facility in Paeroa.
PAEROA ENGINEERING FIRM EXPANDS TONY HOPKINSON
MORE THAN 250 people recently gathered at the Kerepehi Industrial Estate, near Paeroa, to celebrate the opening of the new premises of industry stalwart Quinn Engineering. The firm – started as a one man engineering business in the mid-sixties by the late Eddie Quinn, trading as Quinn Bale Boys – has now grown its range of products and services, which are sold throughout New Zealand, the Pacific and Australia. Present owner Alex Quinn changed the firm’s name in 1997 to Quinn Engineering to reflect these changes. Lifts now account for 66% of Quinn’s business – a product range that started in 1990 when “a person from Bowen Town” asked Alex if he could install a lift, and it grew from that. Prior to that, in the late 1960s, Quinn made bale collector sledges that were towed behind a baler, collecting up to ten bales. The bales were manually stacked four high and transferred by bale clamp to shed or trailer. “Two men could handle 500 bales an hour,” said Alex. The company now makes a range of products, including forklifts, bin rotators, yard scrapers, bale clamps, cowsheds (mainly alterations) and sliding roof covers for fertiliser/feed bins. The bigger and better site is on one hectare of land with 1400 square metres of purpose-built building and facilities. The cutting of the ribbon was done by Alex Quinn, assisted by son Hamish and daughter Morgan.
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
NEWS 11
Farmer optimism rises but sentiment still negative MORE FARMERS expect economic conditions to improve in the coming year, thanks to increased overseas demand for New Zealand milk and meat. According to the latest Rabobank Rural Confidence Survey, farmer confidence was at its highest level since late 2019. However, sentiment remains at net negative levels overall, with significantly more of the country’s farmers pessimistic than optimistic about the year ahead. After falling marginally in the September 2020 quarter, the final survey of the year – completed late last month – found net farmer confidence was up to -23%, from -32% recorded in the last quarter. The survey found an increase in the number of farmers expecting agricultural economic conditions to improve in the coming 12 months (up to 16% from 13% last quarter) while there were less farmers expecting conditions to worsen (39% from 45% previously). The number expecting the performance of the agricultural economy to stay the same rose to 44% from 40% last quarter. Rabobank New Zealand chief executive Todd Charteris said confidence was up among the pastoral sector with dairy, sheep and beef farmers all citing improved demand and overseas markets as
the key reasons for a positive outlook. “Demand for New Zealand dairy products has held up well since the last survey in September and Global Dairy Trade (GDT) results have trended upwards over recent months.” Last week’s additional 20 cent lift in Fonterra’s payout mid-point will have further buoyed those in the sector. However, this came after the survey cut-off and is not reflected in the results. “Sheep and beef farmer confidence also inched higher in this survey from the historically low levels recorded in September, with this driven by generally solid demand for New Zealand red meat products in key markets like China and the US,” says Charteris. Despite the sentiment being up this quarter, Charteris says overall confidence among pastoral farmers remained mired in negative territory amid concerns over government policy and Covid-19. “Government policy and Covid-19 remain the most significant concerns for New Zealand’s pastoral farmers with these factors cited as a source of apprehension by more than half of dairy, sheep and beef farmers holding a pessimistic outlook for the year ahead.” The survey found hor-
DAIRY LIFTS CONFIDENCE THE RABOBANK survey found that farmers’ expectations for their own farm business performance were also up overall, driven by improved expectations among dairy farmers. The survey found 18% of farmers were expecting their own farm businesses to perform better in the year ahead (up from 13%), 34% were expecting worse performance (down from 37%) and 48% were expecting performance to remain the same (unchanged). “Dairy farmers rose strongly on this measure and – for the first time in a year – there are now more dairy farmers expecting their own farm performance to improve than those expecting it to worsen,” Charteris said. “Since last quarter there has been no change on sheep and beef farmers’ expectations for their own farm business performance and they remain deep in net negative territory on this measure.”
ticulturalists continue to be the most optimistic of all the sector groups about the outlook for New Zealand’s broader agricultural economy, however, growers are now less positive than last
quarter. “The government’s recent decision to allow 2000 Registered Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme workers into the country early next year — announced after the close
of the survey period — will have been welcomed by growers. However, significant labour shortages are still anticipated over coming months and this is clearly weighing on growers confidence.”
Rabobank New Zealand chief executive Todd Charteris says while farmer confidence is at its highest level since late 2019, the overall sentiment remains at net negative levels.
NEW INTRODUCTORY OFFER
9,990
$
EX GST RIDE AWAY
SAVE $1,000
THE NEXT GENERATION IN CFMOTO ATVS CFMOTO NORTH ISLAND
Andys Moto Services, Waiuku (027) 944 5442 Brown Brothers Bikes, Whanganui (027) 572 7696 Country Engineering, Tauranga (07) 552 0071 Country Machinery, Sanson (06) 825 6400 Gatmans Mowers, Silverdale (09) 426 5612 JC Motorcycles, Waitara (06) 754 6420 Maungaturoto Motorcycles, Maungaturoto (09) 431 8555 Motorcycle HQ, Pahiatua (06) 376 7163 Northland Powersports, Whangarei (09) 437 5451 Outdoor Power, Hastings (06) 878 2369 Peninsula Motorcycles, Thames (07) 868 6104 Powerhead Motorcycles, Manurewa (09) 297 7145 Rob Titter Farm Services, Kaikohe (09) 401 1774 Tahuna Motorcycles & Atvs, Tahuna (07) 887 5790
CFMOTO SOUTH ISLAND Ag & Auto Direct, Balclutha (03) 418 0555 Dan’s Motor Centre, Geraldine (03) 693 8536 Ian Day Lifestyles, Alexandra (03) 448 9007 T&E Motorcycles, Gore (03) 208 8114 Tru Moto, Christchurch 0800 878 447 Vallance Machinery, Fernside (03) 313 6465
CFMOTO FINANCE AVAILABLE FROM
$51.04 PER WEEK
ON SELECTED CFMOTO ATV’S & UTV’S
*Ride away prices quoted exclude GST. CFORCE 625 EPS offer at $9,990 is valid until 31st December 2020 or until stocks last. See www.cfmoto.co.nz for more information. Any promotions are not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. The weekly amount of $51.04 is based on purchase price of CFMOTO CFORCE 400 EPS for $8038.50 including GST. This is calculated on a four (4) year term plus a $150 booking fee plus interest costs calculated at a rate of 12.50% per annum. Normal lending criteria apply. Offer valid until 31st December 2020.
www.cfmoto.co.nz
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
12 NEWS
Sustainability is top issue order to sign up to in any FTA. NZ already has signed up to such issues in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership or CPTPP and this may help reassure EU parliamentarians about our commitment to highly enforceable environmental standards. There is apparently the question of what commitment NZ may make in terms of the Paris Agreement on climate change. Of all the FTA’s in the
PETER BURKE peterb@ruralnews.co.nz
The EU is expected to place strong emphasis on NZ’s commitment to sustainability in any FTA that is finally negotiated. CREDIT PAUL SUTHERLAND PHOTOGRAPHY
put out to the farming community by officials is that they need to get real about sustainability and that anything less than a full commitment could put an agreement at risk.
Rural News understands that NZ officials have already been quizzed about our country’s environmental credentials and how far we are prepared to go in
SHIFTING CONSUMER PRIORITIES A LEADING food and drink consumer researcher says Covid-19 has caused a significant shift in people’s priorities when it comes to buying food – with sustainability now becoming a top priority. Jodie Minotto, the research manager for Mintel Australia, says when Covid first appeared there was an immediate shift by consumers to look for products which offered health and wellness and also value for money. She says convenience, which had earlier ranked higher, slipped down as a priority because people had time under lockdowns to prepare and cook food. Value, she says, reflected the fact that
many people were losing their jobs and that for some price was a factor. However, Minotto says that price alone is not seen as a benefit; rather it’s what people pay for a benefit. “Environmental factors are now starting to loom large in the minds of consumers,” she explains. “While health and wellness will continue to be a significant factor in the minds of consumers going forward, sustainability will be an equally big factor.” She says value and convenience will be factors, but sustainability will be big the consumer trend of the future.
OUTSTANDING OUTRIGGERS TARAGATE SMARTRIGGER the outrigger that does it all
@rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews
HIGH SEASON FOR RURAL THEFT MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz
RURAL INSURANCE company FMG claims data has shown that January is the time when thieves are out and about looking to relieve farmers and rural dwellers of their property. Stephen Cantwell, FMG’s manData shows that quads, along with other farm vehicles, ager advice services, says theft is are often stolen when the keys are left in the ignition. the leading cause of farm contents not in use, particularly if you’re be scouting the area.” claims at that time of the year. FMG suggests it is also good going away – even if you’re stay“January appears to be the month when thieves are at their practice to install automatic timer ing at home. It adds that thieves Dr Bert Quin most active, resulting in a higher or sensor lighting around your also like to target quad bikes. “Older bikes are also particunumber of claims, but also with property, at both the front and rear, average values up by 23%,” he says. ideally mounted at high level to larly vulnerable at this time of year, The rural insurance specialist prevent criminals from being able with experience showing they are suggests there are actions people to remove bulbs or cover a sensor. easier to sell off, so more attractive Another tip is to engrave valu- for thieves to steal.” can take to help to deter thieves The rural insurer claims data able equipment, making it less targeting your property. • 89% leachable formand than Surephos. thatsustained-release quads, along with otherP beco to thieves easier to showsAll “If you’re heading away,less get aP indesirable trusted neighbour, friend or family identify should it be recovered. It’s farm vehicles, are often stolen the keys are left in rock the ignialso a good idea record details member to regularly check on your - absolutely notoBoucraa slimeswhen or manufacturing is presen property,” it advises. “Get them to and serial numbers of high value tion switch. “This means vehicles are at clear your mailbox of mail, pack- assets on SNAP, a free online asset • Only 11 ppm cadmium (140 mgCd/kg P). Fine form for best coverage. ages and junk mail and ask them to register created by the NZ Police at risk even if you’re on farm, maybe parked up to do some work and create a sense of normality by put- www.snap.org.nz. • Excellent value! Waharoa $278 $299 ; Dannev must leave vehicles unattended.” FMG also suggests using wheel; MaungaTapere ting your rubbish out on the collection day to deter thieves who might locks or clamps on trailers when www.fmg.co.nz/advice/rural-theft/
Available now: The eco-friendly fert can apply any time!
Quinfert PhoS-eco ‘88’
Protecting Kiwi Waterways
NZ’S PRIMARY sector’s strong commitment to sustainability holds the key to the country obtaining a quality, comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union. Negotiations on an FTA have been going on for the past three years and it’s hoped a deal can be agreed within the next couple of years, at the latest. Government and industry sources have told Rural News that the European parliament, which has to ratify any FTA, will place strong emphasis on NZ’s commitment to sustainability. The message being
pipeline, the one with the EU will be the one that can deliver the greatest benefit to the NZ primary sector with dairy, meat and wine and horticulture beneficiaries. The message going out to farmers is that any push back on sustainability could have consequences for them. The line being pushed is that NZ should take control of these standards and avoid the EU stepping in and writing the rules for us.
• Fits wood, concrete and metal posts • Flexible – withstands impact from animals and machinery • Entire body is live – nothing to snap, crack or pop off • Available in 150mm or 230mm lengths • Visit our website for installation videos
8.0% P (< 0.2% P in leachable form), plus 8.0% S and
• Timaru $329 ; Otautau $362. Prices excl. GST Dr Bert Quin
• Also available (limited supply): PhoS-eco ‘Triple8’ 8-8-8 NPS $399
CALL NOW: 0800 633 or Dr Bert Quin 021 Protecting Kiwi 784 Waterways Dr Bert Quin
8.0% P (< 0.2% P in leacha
Available now: T can ap
• 89% less P in leachable form than Su
Quinfert
(*slightly reduced because of ‘CM’ controlled-moisture anti-dust addition) Scores very well in the Watkinson Dissolution Test Low cadmium level of 18ppm (140 mg Cg/kg P) – half the industry maximum Fine (but low-dust) particle size means maximum neutralisation of soil acid Optimise production; minimise P run-off and leaching
- absolutely no Boucraa sl
Phone 07 843 3859 • Fax 07 843 3952 info@taragate.co.nz • www.taragate.co.nz
• Only 11 ppm cadmium (140 mgC
RD2 Hamilton
• Excellent value! Waharoa $278
TARAGATE™ LTD
Reactive Phosphate Rock 12.5% P*, 34% Ca, 1.3% S, 0.6% Mg
• Timaru $329 ; O
TALK TO US TODAY!
QUINFERT ALGERIAN RPR V.2 • Also available (limited supply
• Easy fit, stable and solid anchor • Attaches directly to our claw or pinlock insulator • Fits wood and concrete posts • Holds wire 80mm out from post • Cost effective superior insulation
CALL NOW: 0800 784 6
TARAGATE SPACE-LINK the proven performer
$358/t + GST ex Waharoa • $374 + GST ex Rolleston Blends with sulphur90 and other nutrients available
Phone now on 0800 QUINFERT (784 633) or Bert Quin on 021 427 572 Or email bert.quin@quinfert.co.nz
Protect your ewes. Improve your lambing performance*.
CONTROL THE RISK OF TOXOPLASMA
CONTROL THE RISK OF CAMPYLOBACTER
Toxoplasma is present on 100% of New Zealand farms, and Campylobacter on 88%1 - but both are equally important. These two diseases can cause abortion storms with losses up to 30%, or more, of lambs*2,3. Preventing them takes two vaccines. Maiden ewes require 1 dose of Toxovax® and 2 doses of Campyvax®4 ahead of mating. An annual booster of Campyvax4 to mixed age ewes is required in following years. Protect against abortion storms, and improve flock performance.
ORDER TOXOVAX AND CAMPYVAX4 FROM YOUR VET TODAY. AVAILABLE ONLY UNDER VETERINARY AUTHORISATION. ACVM No's: A4769, A9535. Schering-Plough Animal Health Ltd. Phone: 0800 800 543. www.msd-animal-health.co.nz NZ-CVX-200900003 © 2020 Intervet International B.V. All Rights Reserved. 1. Dempster et al (2011), NZ Veterinary Journal , 59:4 155-159. 2. Wilkins et al (1992) Surveillance, 19:4, 20-23. 3. Sahin et al (2017) The Annual Review of Animal Biosciences. 5: 9.1-9.22
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
14 NEWS
Is a no deal Brexit the real deal? PETER BURKE peterb@ruralnews.co.nz
A FORMER Irish Prime Minister says even if the UK and EU manage to work out a deal over Brexit it will be very limited and cause a lot of disruption. John Bruton, who is now the EU’s Ambassador to the USA, says under a deal or no deal, the extra time it will take for goods to clear customs between the UK and EU will lead to long lines of trucks queuing up at customs posts. He reckons the British people will quickly face major disruptions, higher prices for goods and an increase in the bureaucracy – all of which will annoy them. Looking back on Britain’s involvement in the European Union, Bruton says the country saw
itself as psychologically as being outside looking in, rather than actually being fully inside the union. He believes this view was, to a degree, promoted by some sections of the British media and it was this scepticism of Europe that eventually led to the Brexit referendum and subsequently why the country decided to leave the EU. “The basis of the argument for Britain leaving EU was that it would restore their sovereignty and they would become free again. But they never worked out in any great detail what they would do with their freedom and, to some extent, that is why they are now having difficulty negotiating the Brexit deal,” Bruton claims. “They never worked out…the sort of relation-
Britain and the EU will try and hammer out a deal before the end of the year – where a no deal is more than possible.
ship they would like to have with the European Union and that is the problem they still have today.”
Bruton says when the result of the Brexit referendum was known, no British politician wanted to appear in any way pro-
European – they wanted a clean break. He says the result is the fairly remote sort of trade agreement that is
still being negotiated. “They even talked about an Australian-type agreement, but without realising that Australia
didn’t have an agreement with the EU, which could be code for no deal,” he says. Bruton says one of his biggest worries about Britain leaving the EU is that this will lead to instability in the north of Ireland and that the 1998 Good Friday Peace Agreement will falter. He says there is a risk of instability in the north resulting from Brexit. In the next days and weeks ahead, Britain and the EU will try and hammer out a deal before the end of the year – where a no deal is more than possible. Bruton believes that secretly Boris Johnson may in fact want this. He says if there is a deal and it requires the support of the government, that could be a problem for Johnson to get everyone to agree.
RURALHORTNEWS NEWS TO ALL FARMERS, FOR ALL FARMERS
TO ALL FARMERS. FOR ALL FARMERS.
www.ruralnewsgroup.co.nz
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
AGRIBUSINESS 15
NZ beef and lamb among the world’s most sustainable JESSICA MARSHALL jessica@ruralnews.co.nz
A REPORT from Beef + Lamb New Zealand highlights the role NZ-produced red meat has to play in a sustainable diet. The Role of Red Meat in Healthy and Sustainable New Zealand Diets, the report’s fourth iteration, was released on 27 November. It assessed evidence regarding nutrition and the environment in relation to New Zealand beef and lamb. “The role red meat plays in the diets of Kiwis has received plenty of consideration over recent years,” said Fiona Windle, head of nutrition at Beef
+ Lamb New Zealand (BLNZ). She says the report aims to provide a New Zealand-centric analysis of available evidence to inform people about red meat’s role in diets. Windle says it will “bring balance to a discourse that has too often become binary and, at times, unconstructive.” The report claims that New Zealand is one of the most efficient whole life-cycle producers of beef and lamb in the world. It points out that New Zealand’s carbon emissions per kilogram of beef or lamb produced are about 25% of the global average.
The report claims that NZ is one of the most efficient whole lifecycle producers of beef and lamb in the world.
BLNZ chief executive Sam McIvor says Kiwis need to be aware of how different New Zealand’s farming methods are from those used overseas.
He says the majority of concerns raised about the impact of food production are based on overseas research and “just don’t reflect the
reality of how beef and lamb is produced in New Zealand. While our farmers recognise there’s still more work to be done, New Zealand red meat
production has a comparatively good environmental story to tell,” McIvor says. He adds that the sector is well on its way
towards achieving its goal of being carbon neutral by 2050. McIvor says one of the reasons for this is the amount of carbonsequestering vegetation on sheep and beef farms, which offsets between 63 and 118% of emissions. “A huge amount of work has been done by farmers over the last couple of decades to protect and enhance the vegetation on their farms,” he explains. “We encourage Kiwis to find out more about how their food is produced, because sheep and beef farming stacks up well on key criteria such as environmental impact.”
FARM MACHINERY STRENGTH / QUALITY / PERFORMANCE
Bale Feeders
Forage Wagons
Manure Spreaders
Tip Trailers
www.mcintosh.net.nz FREEPHONE: 0800 622 276
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
16 OPINION EDITORIAL
EDNA
Roll on 2021! THERE IS no doubt that 2020 has been a challenging year for New Zealand and the world. However, despite this, our country’s farmers have soldiered on doing what they do best – farming! The country’s farmers stepped up during the lockdown, as an important part of New Zealand’s essential services, adapted quickly and kept on farming despite the constraints. If there is one good thing to come out of Covid-19, it has further emphasised the vitally important role that the agriculture sector plays in NZ. At a time when other major sectors have been adversely affected, farming is playing – and continues to play – an increasingly vital role as a source of income and employment for the country. In a normal year, farming’s fortunes are always at the mercy of factors that farmers cannot control – the weather, commodity prices and exchange rates to name but three. However, 2020 saw the global pandemic that is Covid-19 cause major disruption throughout the world. Yet despite this major challenge, New Zealand’s farmers – and the wider agribusiness sector – stood up, adapted and carried on. How the NZ public perceives farming – which has not always been positive – benefitted from this attitude and has led to a much needed lift in public perception and understanding of the agriculture sector and its importance to the nation. As 2020 winds down and we head into 2021, farming will continue to face challenges. Farming sustainably – be that in improving water quality, mitigating emissions or how animals are treated – is becoming more and more important. But such changes cannot be a one-size-fitsall approach or ideas dreamt up in the cloistered rooms of the Wellington bureaucracy and government. It is vital for farmers and the country that practical solutions are developed and introduced that maintain profitability and make progress. Government and bureaucrats need to work closely with farmers to support on-farm changes and develop practical regulations. Making environmental improvements while running a profitable business is where real progress will happen. As we look ahead to Christmas and New Year, farmers can take pride in the achievements and resilience they displayed in 2020. They should take the opportunity to enjoy time with family and friends and recharge as they head into 2021.
RURALNEWS TO ALL FARMERS, FOR ALL FARMERS
HEAD OFFICE POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 331100, Takapuna, Auckland 0740 PUBLISHER: Brian Hight ......................................... Ph 09 307 0399 GENERAL MANAGER: Adam Fricker ....................................... Ph 021-842 226 CONSULTING EDITOR: David Anderson .................................. Ph 09 307 0399 davida@ruralnews.co.nz
“No peeping – you’ll spoil the Christmas day surprise!”
Want to share your opinion or gossip with the Hound? Send your emails to: hound@ruralnews.co.nz
THE HOUND How’s it going?
All hot air!
Yes, she did!
A mate of the Hound’s wonders just how Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor is getting along with his 2IC in the agriculture portfolio Meka Whaitiri. Remembering O’Connor’s infamous comment about the Labour Party list selection process, a few years back, in which the West Coast MP described it as controlled by ‘’self-serving unionists and a gaggle of gays’’, the Hound’s mate suggests it could make for an ‘interesting’ working relationship between O’Connor and Whaitiri. That’s because the associate ag minister’s whanau are “staunch union members’’ and she is also a proud member of the Labour Party’s rainbow caucus. Mind you, your old mate suggests if O’Connor does get out of line, Whaitiri should avoid giving him a bit of a slap – like she was accused of in her first term as a minister and subsequently lost her job!
This old mutt was not surprised to recently learn about the blatant hypocrisy of many of the academics who lecture us all on the evils of climate change. According to a recent British and Swedish study, climate researchers take more flights than other academics. The new international study says although the group is highly concerned about global warming, climate researchers are not “walking the talk” by reducing their travel, it discovered. Flying is one of the most emissionsintensive activities, with a single return flight from Auckland to Los Angeles emitting 4.4 tonnes of carbon dioxide – just over what the average New Zealander produces heating their home, driving their car and disposing of waste in a whole year, according to Toitū Envirocare.
This old mutt understands comments made by Hort NZ South Island environmental advisor Rachel McClung around controversial proposals in Timaru District Council’s draft district plan reported in this fine organ, have left the grower organisation somewhat red-faced. Apparently, after the story was published in Rural News on Nov 17, a rather irate Hort NZ communications manager contacted the paper’s editor claiming that McClung had never spoken to this paper and that her reported remarks around the TDC district plan were “bizarre”. Unfortunately for him, the Hound understands these comments were indeed accurate and came in an email from McClung, which was part of a huge document dump provided to Rural News over the controversial proposals outlined in TDC’s draft district plan. Bugger!
PRODUCTION: Dave Ferguson ...................... Ph 027 272 5372 davef@ruralnews.co.nz Becky Williams .......................Ph 021 100 4381 beckyw@ruralnews.co.nz REPORTERS: Sudesh Kissun ........................ Ph 021 963 177 sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz Peter Burke ........................... Ph 021 224 2184 peterb@ruralnews.co.nz MACHINERY EDITOR: Mark Daniel ............................. Ph 021 906 723 markd@ruralnews.co.nz
A minute on the lips… As we head into the festive season, your canine crusader has come across some research that may have you thinking twice about reaching for a second (or even third) helping at Christmas dinner this year. According to the experts at GolfSupport.com , they have done some research and discovered how many exercises you’d have to do to burn off your favourite festive foods. Some of their key findings include: • The most calorific festive food is the Christmas Pudding (305 kcals) taking 1,445 squats to burn off one serving. • In second place is Pigs in Blanket (280 kcals), with 430 burpees needed to burn off one serving. • Rounding off the top 15 is the love-them-or-hate-them Brussel Sprouts (45 kcals), with only a 4-minute jog required to burn off a serving. How depressing!
AUCKLAND SALES REPRESENTATIVE: Stephen Pollard .......................... Ph 021 963 166 stephenp@ruralnews.co.nz
WELLINGTON SALES REPRESENTATIVE: Ron Mackay ................................. Ph 021 453 914 ronm@ruralnews.co.nz
WAIKATO SALES REPRESENTATIVE: Ted Darley .................................. Ph 021 832 505 ted@ruralnews.co.nz
SOUTH ISLAND SALES REPRESENTATIVE: Kaye Sutherland ....................... Ph 021 221 1994 kayes@ruralnews.co.nz
ABC audited circulation 79,553 as at 31/03/2019
DIGITAL STRATEGIST: Jessica Marshall ................ Ph 021 0232 6446
Rural News is published by Rural News Group Ltd. All editorial copy and photographs are subject to copyright and may not be reproduced without prior written permission of the publisher. Opinions or comments expressed within this publication are not necessarily those of staff, management or directors of Rural News Group Ltd.
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
OPINION 17
2020 – a most unusual year! 2020: IT definitely has been a most unusual year! “Who would have thought / I never would have thought…” really sums up our year rather accurately, don’t you think? Quarantines, social distancing, bubbles and masks were certainly not words on people’s lips, or in the media, when 2020 broke in on us January 1. For the sports fans; who would have thought the Warriors would need to be based in Aussie or drop right out of the comp. Who would have thought that Super Rugby would be shut down this year, and then the All Blacks would also need to be based across the creek? And, whoever would have thought games would get played with no spectators – before empty grandstands! For us on the farm, who would have thought it would be so difficult to get stock away, to name just the one challenge. We were affected by this ourselves – as I know many others were as well. And, in general, who would have thought we’d see queues outside supermarkets with people spaced out a metre or two apart. Who would have thought we would see loo paper shelves cleaned out and, in some cases, shoppers ready to slug it out for that same loo paper! And who would have thought families couldn’t get to see and farewell dying loved ones. Challenging and unusual days for sure! Who knows exactly what 2021 may throw up in our faces? Quite likely some more stretch and grow opportunities, on steroids! Yes, we’ve certainly been asked to walk through some rather unusual stuff this year. For many readers you have had very personal things surprise you as well, way more challenging than social distancing, struggling with a mask, or trying to buy loo paper. Stuff like the loss of a loved one,
someone special. Yes, heaven’s gift that night in Bethlehem so long ago forever changed our world. And he is still changing and impacting
@rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews
Who would have thought we’d see queues outside supermarkets with people spaced out a metre or two apart.
CLEANER, CLEARER, EASIER TO READ. THE SHARPEST PRINTING BY A COUNTRY MILE. TO ALL FARMERS FOR ALL FARMERS
FARMER’S CHAPLAIN
Colin Miller
or the breakdown of an important relationship. It has been really tough for you this year, you’re just not ready to face “Jingle Bells” and feverish shopping queues to somehow try and make it all a “Merry Christmas”. In times like this, true friends can be a huge blessing. I trust you have friends like this for you this Christmas. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I believe you will make it through! Christmas is a time for giving. Multiple billions of Christmas cards around the world have, since their origin, pictured the arrival of a baby to this tiny planet we call Earth. Giving at its very best and purest was behind this incredible heavenly gift. Giving at its best is good for us deep within also – it truly is good medicine. I could use the word therapeutic here also. A timely quote many attribute to Sir Winston Churchill: “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” In today’s world, it all has become overcooked, turbocharged commercialism, which of course can blind us to the very reason for this season. From me to you, I have enjoyed being part of the Rural News family this year. My thanks to those of you who took the time to send me an email, I appreciated it. Be sure to take some refreshing R & R time with family and friends over the coming holiday break. And be sure to give something special to
lives around the world today. Have a blest Christmas!
AGRIBUSINESS
MANAGEMENT
NEWS
Sheep milk demand soars.
Precision tech helps farmer get it right. PAGE 31
State of the art accommodation opens at BoP kiwifruit orchard. PAGE 7
PAGE 21
Farmers welcome sale of loss-making China Farms. PAGE 3 NEW CHAIR COMPACT ALLR0UNDER Coull takes reigns PAGE 16
Krone baler PAGE 32
TO ALL FARMERS, FOR ALL FARMERS OCTOBER 20, 2020: ISSUE 712
www.ruralnews.co.nz OCTOBER 13, 2020
Payout lifts
ISSUE 457 // www.dairynews.co.nz
GOOD NEWS PETER BURKE
SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz
THE FORECAST milk payout for this season has gone up by 40c and Fonterra farmers can thank Chinese consumers. The co-operative last week announced a new range of $6.30 to $7.30/kgMS with a new midpoint of $6.80/kgMS. The revised forecast comes just a month after Fonterra announced its annual results. BNZ senior economist Doug Steel told Rural News that he’s not surprised by Fonterra’s announcement, as “underlying tones” in the dairy markets have been improving in recent weeks. In the latest Global Dairy Trade (GDT) auction, the price of flagship whole milk powder price topped US$3,000/metric tonne. The New Zea-
land dollar has also stabilised. Steel says a stable NZ dollar and strong demand for WMP normally provides upward pressure on the payout. However, he says the wide range of Fonterra’s forecast payout means “anything could still happen”. “There’s a wide range of possible outcomes, we are seeing so much
Crisis looms Growers are warning of looming “significant price rises” for fruits and vegetables thanks to the Government’s refusal to allow overseas workers into the country for harvesting and packhouse duties. Pukekohe’s Hira Bhana and Co Ltd say their business grows a lot of spring crops and needs overseas labour to supplement permanent workers like Taniela Vaioleti, (pictured) who was helping harvest lettuce on one of their farms last week. Growers fear that unharvested crops will lead to shortages and price hikes. Full story page 6.
Buy a kids bike
get $200 FREE!
Offer ends 31 December 2020, or while stocks last.
uncertainty lingering around...anything could still happen, but for now we are seeing better prices.” Steel says New Zealand’s close attachment to China, especially in terms of selling them dairy products, is paying dividends. “They were first in, first out of Covid and the strong demand for
WMP there gives us hope going forward.” Fonterra chief executive Miles Hurrell says the stronger 2020-21 milk price forecast is largely being driven by improved demand in China. He says at a $6.80 milk price, more than $10 billion would flow into regional New Zealand.
peterb@ruralnews.co.nz
NEW ZEALAND’S sheep and beef farms are already close to being carbon neutral and Beef+Lamb NZ believes this strengthens calls for the formal recognition of on-farm sequestration. A study led by Dr Bradley Case at Auckland University of Technology (AUT) estimates the woody vegetation on New Zealand sheep and beef farms is offsetting between 63 and 118% of their on-farm agricultural emissions. B+LNZ chief insight officer Jeremy Baker says the study was initiated as a result of a report last year, which showed that there were about 1.4 million hectares of woody vegetation on sheep and beef farms. He says they wanted to understand how much of that was still sequestering carbon and at what level. “The problem with the ETS scheme is that it is based on planting pines and is very much for the short term and gives a quick hit for carbon sequestration,” he says. “Whereas natives take a lot longer to sequester because they are slower growing but they are there for a longer period and they are also biologically and ecologically more secure.” Report author Bradley Case says there is a strong case for farmers to get credit for the sequestration happening on their farms. – See more page 5
SUZUKI.CO.NZ
$200 FREE DEALER DOLLARS on selected kids bikes Purchase any kids bike and score $200 Dealer Dollars to spend on anything you like in-store. A good reason
DREAM TEAM, DREAM RESULTS Tatua chairman Stephen Allen, chief executive Brendhan Greaney attribute record result in a challenging year to hardworking staff. PAGE 4
0.9%
P.A.
KUBOTA’S MGX
T H E TA S K MASTER
FINANCE FOR 36 MONTHS* across the MGX Series FINANCE PROVIDED BY
UDC FINANCE LIMITED
to get the kids outdoors or buy early for Xmas.
SEE YOUR NEAREST DEALER TODAY! Offer applies to JR80, DR-Z125L, LT-Z50 and LT-Z90.
*This finance offer from UDC Finance Limited is only available to eligible business applicants on loans with a term of up to 36 months. The 0.9% p.a. interest rate is fixed for the term of the loan and is only available with a minimum 20% deposit and applies to new MGX Series models UDC Finance credit criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. The finance offer are valid to 31/102020.
kubota.co.nz
www.ruralnews.co.nz www.dairynews.co.nz
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
18 MANAGEMENT
Milking trifecta a SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz
MILKING COWS, goats and sheep on one farm has been a steep learning curve for Te Aroha farmer Kevin Schuler and his brother Paul. Overlapping paddocks and goodwill among staff are helping the family-
Kevin Schuler says milking cows, goats and sheep on one farm has been a steep learning curve.
owned Schuler Brothers Limited (SBL) farm to keep the three milking systems ticking. The farm employs 10 staff and is the only one in New Zealand to milk cows, goats and sheep on one farm. SBL has allocated 70ha for goats, 105ha for cows and 40ha for sheep this
Does your NAIT tag match your NAIT location? From December 14, there are new rules for managing NAIT tags...
– 1 23
1 23 4 5
6 – 15
– 1 23
12345
are only usable ...
AT
... the NAIT location they were purchased for.
Before tagging, make sure the tags’ NAIT number matches your location’s NAIT number. www.ospri.co.nz/managemytags
Remember to register your animals after tagging. Failure to comply with NAIT obligations may result in fines or prosecution issued by the Ministry for Primary Industries.
NAIT is an OSPRI programme
J1540 NAIT tags for single location advert FA.indd 1
ewes have been milked in what had been an old, unused cow herringbone shed. It now boasts a new 40-a-side Rapid Exit Milking System with a Waikato Milking Systems plant, fitted by Qubik. Schuler says workers are allocated to look after each system but there is some overlap of work. “With autumn-calving cows on once-a-day milking and nearing the end of lactation, a worker from the cow shed is able to help with the sheep milking in the afternoons when required,” he told Rural News. “The sheep staff assisted the goat farm through the busy kidding season, and the goat staff helped rear some of the lambs. “The cow staff did a fair bit of the fenc-
GOATS REQUIRE ATTENTION
6 – 15
NAIT tags
season. About 45ha of support land is used for growing maize and running young stock. SBL owns a 236ha (215 effective) farm in Te Aroha West. The original 40ha block was first farmed by Schuler’s grandfather who emigrated from Switzerland as a 12 year old in the early 1900’s. Over time, five other neighbouring farms were acquired for milking cows. At its peak, the farm milked 850 cows. Today it milks 350 cows, supplying Fonterra. Seven years ago SBL invested in dairy goats and at peak now milks 1400 goats, supplying Dairy Goat Cooperative Ltd in Hamilton. This year the business decided to dip its toe in sheep milk. From late August, 640
ospri.co.nz
9/10/2020 1:33:09 PM
KEVIN SCHULER describes dairy goats as the most intensive system on the farm. The goats are housed, and a lot of work goes into feeding and ensuring their habitat is clean and dry. On the other hand, Schuler says the sheep is a low input system. “Sheep dairy is pastoral grazing – we put them in a paddock and off they go, then we can use the paddock to make silage for goats, or we can clean it up with the cows. “With goats, there’s a lot of cutting and carrying pasture, using big machinery which requires a certain skill set, and there is a lot of maintenance around bedding and barns. “The sheep are pretty hardy and handle the elements much better than the goats – particularly rain and cold. As long as the sheep are healthy and have good feed, we don’t have to worry about them too much. “Summer will no doubt present its challenges, but we do have some good shade on the farm so may need to borrow a few areas from the cows and goats when it’s hot.” There is 10ha planted in chicory for the goats’ summer feed and some of it can be used for the sheep if the season demands it. Schuler says they will discover a lot more about running the three systems on one large farm after completing their first season of milking sheep. Like goats, the sheep are pretty quick to milk. Schuler says after some training the ewes have adapted very well to the Rapid Exit milking system. “We are milking 640-odd sheep in just over an hour cups on cups off, so we’re really happy with the flow of the shed. “With recommissioning an old shed you can’t always get everything exactly how you want, but we have managed to incorporate our sheep yards into the design, so most animal handling can also be done in a familiar environment for the sheep which is great.” Milking sheep is also easy on the worker, Schuler says. “The good thing is that the risk of injury for workers is much less than when handling cows. If a sheep stands on your hand, it might be sore for a few days but if it’s a cow, then you’re on ACC for a month.
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
MANAGEMENT 19
juggling act ing upgrades, and the goat staff accommodated sheep when animal handling space was needed before the sheep shed was ready…Everyone was brilliant, really. Even when they were busy, they made time.” In future the busy times of each system will be separated as much as possible. “We kidded our goats in late June this year, but next year we will start early June because it would get crazy with lambing starting in late July, particularly if we hand rear more lambs,” he says. The busiest part of kidding will also fit better with school holidays. “It’s a real family atmosphere when the children are working, and they all love a bit of pocket money. During busy times we rely on goodwill among staff
the goats is made from the whole farm, and cows get the goat push out (uneaten feed) as well. Depending on sheep grazing residuals, cows may clean up behind or the paddock can be shut up for silage. Over autumnwinter when the cows are in peak milk and the sheep are dry, some sheep paddocks can be allocated to the cows, or used as cut and carry for the goats.
Sheep coming in for milking at the Schuler Brothers Ltd farm in Te Aroha.
LOWER ENVIRONMENTAL FOOTPRINT SUSTAINABILITY AND the lower environmental footprint of goat and sheep milking was also a factor when SBL opted for diversification. The dairy sheep conversion has cost around $500,000; for the shed conversion (including staff amenities and the sheep handling facilities), fencing new and sheep-proofing existing paddocks, building races and an effluent system, upgrading vehicle access, farm power supply, and connecting to town water.
While the conversion project was delayed due to Covid-19, the ewes have been milking for over two months now and Kevin is pleased with how things are going. Maui Milk, which takes sheep milk from the farm, is paying its suppliers $17/kgMS. Schuler says that is an outstanding payout. He says the recent volatility around cow milk payout has created uncertainty for the dairy cow industry.
Telefarmer
In the past, there has not been much opportunity for dairy farmers to diversify land use. But times are changing, and goats and sheep now offer genuine alternatives for farmers to transfer their skills and expertise. “Everyone has their own appetite for risk and change, and every farming system is different. We are glad we took up the goat opportunity when it arose and are now excited to be at the pioneering end of the dairy sheep industry.”
multifarmer
SAFE ON ANY TERRAIN
le f exaib ina sk about
nce
fl
Boost your productivity with features that are practical, effective and safe
SEASONAL
Merlo high-performance axles - manoeuvrable by design de
payments
S ava il a b l
e
al
high performance, reduced fuel consumption and guaranteed cost savings
Merlo designs and produces the majority of the components used on its telehandlers. Axles are integral part of every project and are designed and dimensioned to work in perfect harmony with the other main groups. The machines in the Compact series are fitted with two different types of axle: the P25.6 is equipped with an axle with planetary final drives that The TF 42.7-100EE has beenofdeveloped asthe a high ensures a low centre gravity, while P28.8performance, and P32.6 are fitted with a telehandler, powered by a 100hp Kubota engine. portal axle affording greater stage groundIIIclearance for improved handling Latest generation Merlo cab, and withversatility. a high level of comfort. Offering Both axles seat, are fitted with dry disc brakes, automatic parking brake and an air suspension air conditioning, and high visibility. differential lockand (opt). • High performance, heavy duty
• Lift capacity of 4,200kg, with a boom reach of 7m Axles: designed as an integral part of the product for maximum performance. • Single lever joystick: boom functions, 3rd service, forward reverse Merlo axles: fully integrated in the product for higher functionality and superior • Hydrostatic transmission with continuous variation on from quality. 0 to 40 km/h P 25.6: planetary final drives, allow for a low centre of gravity. The optimal steering capacity and • Two speed range 0-40 Km/h HST P 28.8 and P 32.6: portal axle, ground clearance of 385 mm. More versatile. three steering modes allow for • Full range of merlo approved attachments available Three steering modes: front wheel, all wheel and crab, for enhanced superb manoeuvrability and ease manoeuvrability, efficiency and productivity. of use in Three all terrain steering conditions modes and an
Call us now for a good price on our Ex-Demo units
Permanently engaged four-wheel drive: maximum traction in all conditions. All wheel braking: servo assisted braking on all four wheels for maximum safety. Parking brake: activated automatically when the engine is shut off or from the
0800 627 021 925 034 | in-cab222 controlor when required. FA5007RC
LES
to help each other out.” While there are three systems, the broader sense of teamwork is very important to the overall farming operation, Schuler says. The experienced cow and goat farm managers have been very supportive. “Having the ability to mix and match staff across the whole farm has been a real bonus and there is no doubt it has made the move into milking sheep easier,” he says. The new role of sheep herd manager was actually filled from the goat farm. Schuler says it’s great to be able to offer progression to staff and to continue working with people they know and trust. Like staff, paddocks also overlap among the three systems: silage for
merlo nz |
Differential locks (opt) for improved traction over difficult terrain.
excellent turning circle ensure the machine is highly manoeuvrable and merlo.co.nz easy to handle, whatever the terrain.
Terms and conditions apply. While stocks last. Normal lending criteria applies. Contact your local dealership for more information.
The telehandler that can do even more around the farm Today, the new Multifarmer ranges (consisting of the MF 34.7, MF 34.9 and the larger MF 40.7 and MF 40.9 models) are designed to offer a telehandler equipped with a boom and a PTO. In addition to performing handling operations, Multifarmers can also be equipped with tools that are carried, towed or operated by the PTO, which means they can also be used for field applications such as cultivation, baling, mowing and transportation. • 136 HP and 170 HP engines managed by the EPD system, which enables reductions in diesel fuel consumption and offer two speed range 0-40 Km/h HST • Lift capacity up to 4,000kg, with a boom reach of 7-9m • Single lever joystick: boom functions, 3rd service, forward reverse • Equipped with CDC (Dynamic Load Control) anti-tipping system
Call us today to organise a demonstration
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
20 ANIMAL HEALTH
Keeping scabby mouth at bay SCABBY MOUTH is common and the infection rate in some sheep flocks can be as high as 90%. It mostly affects lambs and can cause significant loss in growth potential of lambs and hoggets due to the reduction in suckling and grazing. The disease is caused by a virus which can remain viable in the scab material for some time, although it is broken down by environmental conditions such as rain or UV light. Trauma to the skin aids the establishment of the disease and this is where the scabs or lesions will form. Causes of trauma include grazing around thistles or matagouri, erupting teeth, and head butting though fighting. The lesions are
commonly found in the following locations: • Surrounding the lip margins, mouth and tongue • Between the hooves and behind the fetlock • Vulva (in ewe hoggets) • Udder (in lactating ewes) It can also become more generalised and cover the animal’s entire head, muzzle and ears. The lesions generally cure by themselves within a few weeks of infection, as long as there is no secondary bacterial infection. After an initial infection, sheep will usually develop immunity lasting several months. However, if the lesions become infected via a secondary bacterial infection the following treatments are recommended:
CRAIGCO
powered by
SHEEP JETTERS SHEEP JETTERS SINCE 1992
CRAIGCO SENSOR JET
Guaranteed Performance Save time and Money . Flystrike and Lice cost $$$ Quick to Set up . Easy to use . Job Done Robust construction. Auto shut gate. Adjustable V panels Total 20 Jets. Lambs 5 jets. Side jets for Lice. Davey Twin Impeller Pump. 6.5 or 9.0 Hp motors
06 8356863 . 021 061 1800
www.craigcojetters.com
Vaccination usually proves effective in preventing scabby mouth infection, with a single vaccination dose usually given to lambs at docking/tailing time.
• Topical or injectable antibiotics • Spraying the lesions with a solution of one part of glycerine to three parts of water and three parts of iodine. In most outbreaks it is often too late to prevent the spread of the disease through the flock. Vaccination usually proves effective in preventing infection. The vaccines
consist of a live strain of the virus, so it is important that farms have already been identified as previous carriers of the disease. The vaccine provides immunity for approximately eight months, although it appears that the constant environmental challenge further strengthens the sheep’s protective immunity to
this disease. It’s also a good idea to reduce the risk of trauma to your animals: • Avoid grazing ewes and lambs in paddocks that are heavily infested with thistles • Control thistle infestation A single vaccination dose is usually given to lambs at docking/tailing time, via a wire applica-
tor, which is scratched firmly across the skin. This is usually done inside the thigh or armpit of the lamb. This site is chosen because it has little to no wool cover and the lamb is unable to lick the vaccine site and become infected. It is important not to scratch so deeply as to cause bleeding, as this could carry the vac-
cine away from the body and render it ineffective. Check the applicator needles regularly—they can become clogged with grease and dirt and deliver an incorrect or reduced dose of vaccine. Take care when vaccinating. Because the vaccine is a live strain, self-injection with the applicator will transmit the disease to humans. The vaccine should also be handled carefully to keep it viable. Antiseptics or fly strike spray used at the same time may inactivate the vaccine. A scab should form at the inoculation site. Test the effectiveness of vaccination by checking approximately 20 lambs five to seven days later, to ensure a scab has formed and the vaccine has taken. • Source Beef+Lamb NZ factsheet
PROMISING NEW TEST FOR JOHNE’S A PROMISING new test for Johne’s disease in dairy cattle has been developed at the Institute for Global Food Security (IGFS) and School of Biological Sciences at Queen’s University Belfast. The new test is said to be both more rapid and sensitive in detecting the infectious agent (MAP) of Johne’s in veterinary specimens. It is showing greater detection capability than the milkELISA test that is currently used. Crucially, it detects live infectious agent, not just antibodies
against MAP as are detected by milk-ELISA. In a recent study, the new test was able to detect more infected animals by milk testing than milk-ELISA, so could potentially facilitate control of Johne’s faster. As well as bovine milk, the new test can also be applied to faeces and blood from livestock. The test was developed by Professor Irene Grant and her post-doctoral researcher Dr Antonio Foddai at IGFS and their research was published in
the open-access journal Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology. They hope to now move to the applied stage of the science with further development and validation of their test for MAP infection at farm level. “As farmers will know, Johne’s disease is an endemic animal health issue worldwide, particularly in dairy herds,” Prof Grant says. “It is certainly present in Northern Ireland dairy herds, but the true prevalence of Johne’s in the local context is not accu-
rately known.” Grant is hopeful the new test will offer more accurate, rapid and quantitative results. “This will therefore help farmers and vets make more informed decisions about the infection status of animals in order to control the disease more effectively within herds,” she adds. “I also hope it will generate more accurate data on the prevalence of Johne’s within Northern Ireland and therefore build a better picture of this animalhealth problem.”
FAMILY BRINGING THEIR DOG ONTO YOUR FARM THIS CHRISTMAS? MAKE SURE THEY HAVE THEIR VET DOSE IT FOR SHEEP MEASLES BEFORE COMING!
For more information or resources contact Ovis Management on 0800 222 011 or go to www.sheepmeasles.co.nz or www.facebook.com/sheepmeasles/
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
MACHINERY & PRODUCTS 21
Early pick for car of the year! MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz
AS I’M writing this review in early December, I’d like to make a prediction – the new Land Rover Defender should win the New Zealand Car of The Year title. Unfortunately, this decision will be in the hands of a bunch of ‘Jafa’ journos – whose idea of off-roading is climbing a kerb on the daily school run. In 1983, the Land Rover Defender was born and went on to become the go-to utility vehicle for those above, along with adventurers and even townies who wanted to go rural.
That car eventually succumbed to increasing regulations and ceased production in 2016. Fast forward to 2019, and the new Land Rover Defender is a vehicle that will have LR purists shaking their heads, but it is – without a doubt – one of the stand-out vehicles to arrive in NZ in the last decade. Still retaining that boxy shape and steeply raked windscreen, the new Defender is likely to make a Yorkshire man gasp, “Aye up … it’s got bloody carpets.” But putting sentiment behind us, the new Defender is all about today’s motoring. Our test vehicle was the long
wheelbase, 5-door version – dubbed 110 SE – the third tier of the four-step range. Moving away from a body mounted to a separate chassis, the new Defender is a monocoque construction, using the same base as the Range Rover, albeit with several beefed-up components to tackle the rough stuff. The powerplant we tested is a 2.0 litre, 4-cylinder diesel – pushing out 240hp (177kW) with 430Nm torque. This is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission that takes the drive on to the all-wheel drive system. The engine picks up smoothly, giving little or no indication that
it’s really a diesel. Hitting the highway max in about nine seconds, the Defender is equally at home cruising along at 80km/h, with plenty of get-up-and-go if you hit the gas. Inside, our review vehicle was configured in a 2+3+2 layout, meaning it can cater for seven people. We would prefer a walkthrough space between the front seats rather than the centre console fitted, which looked to have too many places to collect rubbish and dirt, making it difficult to keep clean. As you’d expect, the seating is comfortable and easily adjusted to take all sizes. Meanwhile,
The new Land Rover Defender is one of the stand-out vehicles to arrive in NZ in the last decade.
the plethora of information displayed by the central and secondary screens is mind-blowing and would take several weeks to explore fully. Highlights include a surround camera system, making parking or navigating this big vehicle easy, alongside host of safety enhancements like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist and
Blind Spot Monitoring. On the road, the Defender’s handling is car-like, showing none of the vagueness of its previous incarnation. Featuring air suspension – great for getting off the beaten track – body roll is a lot less than one would expect, the ride is comfortable and the steering is precise and well weighted.
When you want to go off road, things only get better. Hitting metal roads, farm tracks and muddy paddocks, the Defender never looked like getting stuck and never required the intervention of the locking centre or rear differentials. Low range was selected just once, for pulling a heavy, log-laden trailer up a hill.
Kramer arrives in Australasia FOLLOWING A move that has evolved in Europe over the last two years, German handling specialist Kramer has announced that John Deere dealers in Australia and New Zealand will distribute its machines. Cervus Equipment, with nine branches in NZ and seven branches in southern Australia, will concentrate on the telehandler product range, initially with the KT276 and KT447 models. “We are looking forward to the partnership with Kramer”, reports Tim Ormrod, managing director of Cervus Equip-
Kramer has announced that John Deere dealers in Australia and New Zealand will now distribute its machines.
ment. “The Kramer product portfolio is best suited for our market and year-round application in various agricultural disciplines.” The alliance formed by Kramer and John Deere covers the sales of compact machines from the Kramer brand (so-called “green line”) for agriculture, developed and manufactured at Pfullendorf in Germany. The complete model range (KT276, KT306, KT356, KT307, KT357, KT407, KT457, KT507, KT557, KT429, KT559) offers a compact model with a payload of 2.7 tonnes and maximum lift height
of 6 metres to the largest machine, with a capacity of 5.5 tonnes and 9 metres height. “With the first telehandlers in the country, Cervus Equipment on board and a Kramer employee on-site, we are looking forward to our new beginning in Australia and New Zealand,” explains Thomas Brogt, head of sales international, Kramer. “In future, the Kramer presence in both countries will continue to be expanded so that we can provide an extensive agricultural dealer network.” – Mark Daniel
www.malonefm.co.nz
MOWERS
MOWERS, TEDDERS
COME STANDARD WITH QUICK
CHANGE
UNIQUE
HOOKED
TINE
BLADES
AND MORE...
NORTH ISLAND www.gaz.co.nz Imported Products Specialist | 027 203 5022 CAMBRIDGE | OTOROHANGA | ROTORUA
RELIABILITY & LONG SERVICE LIFE NATIONWIDE
DELIVERY
Country Machinery (Palmerston North) Dean Booth 027 550 7986 | 0508 762 574
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
22 MACHINERY & PRODUCTS / RURAL TRADER
No wild ride! MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz
HONDA’S PIONEER UTV range has a huge following on the farms and back blocks of New Zealand. At the heart of the Pioneer 1000 and 1000-5 is a purpose-built, 999cc parallel-twin engine that is mounted longitudinally. This is a feature unique to Honda, removing right-angles in the driveline and delivering more power to the ground. The engine delivers its power to the industry’s first fully-automated dual clutch transmission (DCT), which also incorporates a Sport Mode switch and manual paddle-type shifters for ultimate control. Complementing the main transmission is a low-range sub-trans that doubles the number of gears from six to twelve. Meanwhile, the diff lock and turf mode functions help to increase climbing ability and reduce terrain damage. Underpinning the
Turley Farms manager Andrew Smith says strong support from the dealership is important and how well problems are addressed when they arise.
The Honda Pioneer 1000 has a large tilting cargo bed for loads and a one tonne towing capacity.
unique design and helping to improve durability, the all-gear design – with no belts – provides a direct, connected feel between the accelerator and the wheels. It also reduces maintenance and transfers power efficiently. On the five-person models, an automatic self-levelling rear suspension system maintains the appropriate ride height when fully loaded. This is done by using a series of hydraulic chambers to
maximise ride comfort and maintain consistent vehicle handling. The Honda has a large tilting cargo bed for loads, plus a massive one tonne towing capacity. As a bonus, the 5P model features the QuickFlip function, allowing users to quickly configure the machine for personnel or cargo. In the Pioneer 1000 cabin, a wide, comfortable bench seat offers room for up to three passengers, with hand-hold
straps and a shoulder belt for the centre occupant. The hard doors, with nets on all models, protect occupants. Ahead of the driver, large, easy-to-reach transmission and drive levers with positive detents make it easy to choose the selected gear and drive mode by sight or feel. The Pioneer 1000 joins the well-established 500 and 700 series. www.Hondamotorbikes. co.nz
FREE
nationwide delivery
BEST QUALITY | BEST Price | BEST ADVICE BEST QUALITY | BEST Price | BEST ADVICE
CALL FOR DISCOUNTS ON| DEVON TANKS BESTNOW QUALITY | BEST Price BEST ADVICE
WATER TANKS, PUMPS & FILTRATION WATER TANKS, PUMPS & FILTRATION
WATER TANKS, PUMPS & FILTRATION DEVAN CALPEDA • PURETEC • OASIS CLEARWATER DEVAN •• PROMAX PROMAX • •CALPEDA • PURETEC • OASIS CLEARWATER DEVAN •TANKS, RX • CALPEDA • AQUA • OASIS CLEARWATER WATER PUMPS & FILTRATION
DEVAN • PROMAX • CALPEDA • •PURETEC • OASIS CLEARWATER P: 326 8888 www.thetankguy.co.nz P:0508 0508 326 8888 • www.thetankguy.co.nz A: A: 30 30 Turners RoadRoad – Feilding Turners – Feilding
SUPPORT KEEPS ARABLE OPERATION ON THE ‘CASE’ TURLEY FARMS is a Canterburybased, family-owned enterprise that grows vegetable, seed and pasture crops – including wheat, barley, potatoes, white clover, onions, grass seed and carrot seed. Also on the agenda are hybrid radish, spinach, canola, sunflowers and peas for processing. During winter the business finishes store lambs, winters dairy cows and finishes some beef cattle. The business is largely self-contained, backed by technology to keep the many wheels of its 12 prime movers rolling. Case IH tractors on the properties run from 75 to 550hp, many fitted with Case IH Advanced farming systems automated guidance, offering precision seed placement down to 2cm, delivered by Trimble RTK. With this technology available, real-time data monitoring from the Vantage system – offered by Trimble – gives the operation insight into areas such as soil moisture levels, then by comparing the results from a weather station reading, it can calculate soil deficit and crop demand. For fertiliser application, each paddock is grid referenced and soil tested. From this information a variable application map is created, then sent to a suitably equipped spreader, that might deliver the expensive product at variable rates from 50 to 200kg per hectare. Manager Andrew Smith says his bottom line is cab comfort and strong
P: 0508 326 8888 • www.thetankguy.co.nz A: 30 Turners Road – Feilding ENDS 10 JANUARY
BUFFALO BOOTS!
After 25 years of providing workwear to New Zealand farmers - our rainwear & footwear is the best it has ever been. We have a reasonable amount of stock arriving mid-October, but anticipate this will sell quickly. Thank you to all our customers who have supported us over the years! Earthwalk Buffalo Boots have WAXY thick buffalo hide uppers which are 175% more crack and water resistant than normal leather. The nitrile rubber outsole won’t crack, split or break down in soil. It is stitched to the buffalo leather upper...
9am-5pm
0800 16 00 24
SLIP ON
$145
ZIP STRIP quick lacing
valued at $320
$20
STEEL TOE X (with Scuff Guard) PLAIN TOE (without Scuff Guard)
ONLINE
earthwalk.co.nz
www.caseih.co.nz
FREE SHIPPING!
LACE UP
New Zealand owned & operated PHONE
support from the dealership. “It doesn’t matter what colour the machine is, or what bit of machinery it is, they’ve all got the risk of breakdowns,” he explains. “For us, the key question is how well the problems are addressed when they arise.” Turley Farms’ Case IH equipment is supported by the local dealer Cochranes, who in turn are backed by Case IH NZ. When it comes to machinery and technology, Turley Farms looks for ease of operation. “Last year, during harvest we ran 17 fulltime and 13 overseas staff working on the farms,” Smith explains. “Five combines might be working simultaneously in different crops at the peak, feeding different crops or varieties of the same crop back to multiple drying and storage facilities – so attention to detail is paramount.” Preventing crop contamination is a real focus for the team, from the farm managers, agronomists, permanent staff, and seasonal harvest staff. Crop hygiene starts with the agronomists in the paddock, moves onto harvesting, drying and storage, then away to market. Given what’s at stake, particularly in the case of high value vegetable seed crops, hygiene is king. Turley Farms uses a large air compressor and an industrial vacuum cleaner to clean the combines, during crop or variety changes and at the end of the season.
$140 valued at $280
STEEL TOE X (with Scuff Guard) STEEL TOE (without Scuff Guard) PLAIN TOE (without Scuff Guard)
NEW WAXY BUFFALO LEATHER! 175% more crack resistant Leather Traditional Stitched on soles Wide Fit Nitrile Rubber Outsole Heavy Duty Elastic Sides (Slip On) Outsole won’t Crack or Split Calfskin Tongue & Collar (Lace Up) NEW WATERPROOF INSOLE! NEW DURABLE LUXURY FOOTBED
sizes: 5 - 13 (NZ) CHEQUES
earthwalk, r d 2, palmerston north
(free shipping - order between now & 10 January)
RURAL NEWS // DECEMBER 15, 2020
RURAL TRADER 23 tunnel houses T T T T T
Grow vegetables all year round Very affordable and easy to install New Zealand designed and made 40 years producing tunnel houses Range of models sized from 2m - 10m t/f
03 214 4262 |
e
www.morrifield.com
info@morrifield.com
QUADBAR
595
$
+GST delivered
Proven beyo nd do ubt! “I have no doubt that if I did not have a Quadbar fitted, my accident would have been fatal!” – Rozel Farms “The Quadbar saved our employee from significant injuries.” – Colin van der Geest
600 500 400 300 200 100 0
For details contact: JULIE BEECH Ph 09-307 0399 • julieb@ruralnews.co.nz
new 300w LED
www.ruralnews.co.nz
FLY OR LICE PROBLEMS? The magic eye sheepjetter since 1989
Quality construction and options • Get the contractors choice Featuring...
• Incredible chemical economy • Amazing ease 1500+ per hour • Unique self adjusting sides • Environmentally and user friendly • Automatically activated • Proven effective on lice as well as fly • Compatible with all dip chemicals • Accurate, effective application
ORDER ONLINE WWW.TRADE-ME.CO.NZ ‘D2D SOLAR’
No Cables & No Power Bill
Rubber Safety Matting
Recommended by Worksafe. ACC subsidy available
For a Quadbar, call me, Stuart Davidson, owner of Quadbar NZ, on 021-182 8115. Email sales@quadbar.co.nz or for more info go to www.quadbar.co.nz
YOUR ADVERT HERE
DOLOMITE
• ATV Carrier Mats • Exit/Entry Areas • Calf Trailers • Horse Floats & Trucks • Weigh Platforms • Bale Mats • Comfort Mats for Wet & Dry Areas • Utility Deck Matting
QUADBAR 5 YEAR SURVEY
Phone: 0800 80 8570 www.burgessmatting.co.nz NUMBER OF QUADBARS 479
ROLLOVERS 61
NUMBER OF DEATHS 0
Free Range & Barn Eggs SUPPLIERS OF:
• Nest boxes - manual or automated • Feed & Drinking • Plastic egg trays
FOOTWEAR LTD
QUALITY PRODUCTS MADE IN EUROPE OR BY PPP
NZ MADE BOOTS
Visit www.lastrite.co.nz for more quality products
❖
A trusted name in Poultry Industry for over 50 years ❖
HUNTER BOOTS Comfortable, durable and stylish.
The heavy duty sole construction makes this a robust boot designed for climbing over rugged ground. This boot has a soft toe and is made from a thick Mad Dog Nubuck Leather, stitched and screwed construction with a rubber, replaceable sole, that is glued and screwed. Soft padding for ankle support and D-Rings for your laces are an added advantage. Great fitting boots full of comfort, ideal for those long hunting and tramping trips.
comfort. Constructed from Reverse kip leather they are an ideal farmers, fencers and builders boot. Very sturdy and made to last this boot is robust with a heavy duty construction. It has a leather insole and midsole that is stitched and screwed construction with a rubber, replaceable sole, that is glued and screwed. Update your old boots now and you will never look back.
■ BREAKING NEWS ■ MACHINERY REVIEWS ■ MARKETS & TRENDS ■ MANAGEMENT STORIES ■ COMPETITIONS ■ AND MUCH MORE...
10 HALL ROAD, RD5, WHANGAREI Phone 09-436 2794 or 027-436 2793
300mm x 6 metre .......................... $410 400mm x 6 metre .......................... $515 500mm x 6 metre .......................... $690 600mm x 6 metre .......................... $925 800mm x 6 metre ........................ $1399 1000mm x 6 metre ...................... $2175 1200mm x 6 metre ...................... $3475 ALL PRICES INCLUDE G.S.T.
NOW READ IT ONLINE
07 573 8512 | dipping@electrodip.co.nz – www.electrodip.com
Citrus Cleaner Concentrate Moss Killer Super Strength Moss Killer Hard Surface Dairy Shed, Smokhouse, Butchery and Fishing Boat Cleaner exclusive covid 19
10%
discount off
Click on ‘enter promo code’ at checkout type ‘summer 2021’ and then lock ‘apply to redeem the discount.
*Discount applies exclusively for lifestock block owners and the rural sector. Promo expires 28th of February 2021
READING THE PAPER ONLINE HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER
FARMER BOOTS Lastrite’s Farmer boots are made for
ONE STOP WATER SHOP
NZ’s finest BioGro certified Mg fertiliser For a delivered price call... 0800 436 566
All the latest stories and more at www.ruralnews.co.nz
CULVERT PIPES
New Zealand’s CHEAPEST Culvert Pipes! FREE joiners supplied on request. • Lightweight, easy to install • Made from polyethylene
Check out our NEW website www.mckeeplastics.co.nz
WWW.toXc.co.nZ
Phone
0508 987 363
06 323 4181
or
0800 625 826 for your nearest stockist
Joiners supplied FREE with culvert pipes
0% FINANCE* EARLY ORDER OFFERS NOW ON
WE’RE READY TO ROLL MASSEY FERGUSON RB 4160V AND RB 4180V The Variable Chamber Round Baler series produce quality, dense bales which are easy to transport, handle and stack. Combined with the world-class reputation of Welger and Lely behind us, the MF RB Series is built to last and designed to exceed your expectations. • • • • • •
2.25 m or 2.40 m 5 bar camless pick-up for whistle-clean fields ISOBUS compatible with E-Link or E-Link Pro terminals HydroFlex rotor floor for maximum crop flow with minimal risk of blockages ELS (Easy Load System) for quick and simple net roll changes Opti-clean rubber rollers and 4 durable belts for extended lifetime of operation CPS (constant pressure system) produces consistent density from the core to the outer diameter
CONSISTENT BALE SHAPE
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL MASSEY FERGUSON DEALER TODAY *Offer ends March 31, 2021, while stocks last. Finance with an interest rate of 0% p.a. available on Chattel Mortgage agreement based on 1/3 cash deposit, 1/3 after six months and 1/3 after 12 months OR minimum 30% cash deposit, the GST component repaid in the fourth month and monthly repayments in arrears over a 12 month term. Fees and lending conditions apply to approved GST number holders, who use the equipment for business purposes. Finance is approved by AGCO Finance Pty Ltd, GST number 88-831-861.
MASSEYFERGUSON.CO.NZ | FREECALL 0800 825 872
A world of experience. Working with you.