Coast & Country - March 2019 by Sun Media

The last two years have been quite an adventure for Kylie and Eddie Robinson and their young family. In 2017 they moved to a Raglan dairy farm for a live-in farm manager job, with the proviso they could lease some land to start a market garden venture. Pictured here with their two youngest children, Havana, 1, Kalani, 2, read their story on page 45. Photo: Catherine Fry.

Tea Harvest PAGE 6-7

Assitance Dogs PAGE 14-15

Kiwifruit & Avos PAGE 19-25

Sheep & Beef PAGE 26-27

Fertiliser PAGE 30-33

Pasture Renovation PAGE 42-43

Vehicles & Machinery PAGE 50-53

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Page 2

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

The key to reaching goals Wildfires in Nelson, dry conditions parching much of the country, flooding across the ditch, and fruits fly finds – of two different species – here in Auckland made for an interesting February last month.

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Grower of the Year and the BOP Ballance Farm Environment Award winner of 2019 – to see what they’ve been striving towards and why. On pages 14-15 we talk to Julie and Rick Hancox who are making a difference to people’s lives by training assistance dogs on their rural property at Ngutunui in the Waikato. Then there’s Brexit deadline looming on March The NZ Avocado industry body is being ambitious 29, and murmurings of the health of New Zealand’s by bidding to host the World Avocado Congress here relationship with China, and the kiwifruit harvest in NZ in 2023. See page 22. And avocado export approaching with a need for more people to pick and group Avoco is taking a leading role in efforts to pack another bumper crop. resolve industry-wide fruit quality issues experienced All these situations makes you ponder that as this season. See page 19. a primary producer, there are a lot of factors out of Columnist Robin Boom tells us about a lifeyour control. changing trip to Sri Lanka But don’t let challenges to look at a dairy project stand in your way or put Tearfund and the NZ Govyou off. Because there ernment have partnered on are some things you to assist peasant farmers to can control – or at least become economically selfwork towards changing, sufficient on pages 30-31. improving or enhancing Travelling farmer Aiden Dry weather, fires and flooding all made news in February. for the better of your Cunningham tells us of operation as well as that of yourself, your staff, your his experiences working in NZ and on a Kiwi-owned animals, your land, and your community. farm in Missouri, US, and what he’s doing in Ireland. In our March edition, we feature many people, Meanwhile, Mike King has been in Tauranga talkorganisations and businesses that are taking on ing mental health to up-and-coming leaders challenges, making a difference, or using research of the kiwifruit industry ahead of a busy harvest and development, or life experiences, to gain more on page 43. knowledge to tackle the unknown. And Power Farming Morrinsville’s opening of their On page 3 we talk to the kiwifruit industry about new retail store, complete with an 18-bay workshop, how they’re heading into the upcoming harvest on is captured on pages 50-51. the front-foot, with a comprehensive campaign to So whatever the challenge may be – take inspiration entice more people into the seasonal work. from these people that you can reach your goal – We highlight the winners of two highly coveted even if some things may be out of your control. awards for the Bay of Plenty region – the BOP Young Happy reading. Merle Foster

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Industry aims to line up harvest workers early Harvest is just around the corner, a larger volume crop is forecast, and New Zealand’s labour market is tight. So the kiwifruit industry is pulling out all the stops to ensure this year’s harvest isn’t short of workers – so quality Zespri kiwifruit continues to be sent to overseas customers in premium condition. NZ Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated chief executive ofﬁcer Nikki Johnson says the gold crop is up quite signiﬁcantly on last year and the green crop is down – “but overall the number of trays we’re going to need to pick and pack is up slightly on last year” – meaning around 18,000 workers will be needed this harvest. “Last year, the harvest was at least 1200 workers short at the peak – we don’t want a repeat of that.” As a result, NZKGI is running a broad labour recruitment campaign, targeting local students, unemployed Kiwis, retirees and backpackers, to show them what the industry can offer and address any misconceptions about the work.

Social media

“While we want to employ local Kiwis as a ﬁrst priority, we’re casting the net far and wide to attract as many seasonal workers as possible,” says Nikki. “There is a workforce out there that we think would be great in our industry; we just have to tell them about it and let them know what’s in it for them.” Nikki says the campaign will promote kiwifruit work opportunities through a major social media campaign to reach potential workers, using Facebook to connect with job-seekers via a newly-launched Kiwifruit Jobs NZ page. “We’ll also be sharing great content with

NZKGI chief executive Nikki Johnson says 18,000 workers are needed this harvest. potential employees, including a video of German and Czech backpackers sharing their orchard experiences, and a short-but-fact-packed guide to working in the sector – the Little Green and Gold Book.” Nikki says the industry needs large numbers of workers from late-March through to June for harvesting fruit. “But there’s also a large number of workers needed in packhouses in a wide range of processing roles, as the fruit leaves orchards to be prepared for distribution overseas.” While she realises her industry is competing with every other NZ industry seeking workers in a tight labour market, Nikki says the campaign also looks outside square. “We’re looking at retirees, parents with children, and those that aren’t necessarily looking for full-time or continuous work. “There’s also opportunity for community or school groups or sports clubs to fundraise money by getting a

group together to work in the orchardside of harvest.” Backpackers are still a focus too– with kiwifruit work an excellent option for them to earn money while they travel and sightsee. But much incorrect information exists about working with kiwifruit, which Nikki says makes it harder to recruit people. “That includes the pay rates – they are actually very competitive.” In 2017, when minimum wage was $15.75, the average wage for picking kiwifruit was $20.95. The expected picking rate in 2019 is $23.50. “We’ll highlight the facts about kiwifruit work through our campaign to rectify myths.” The campaign also aims to emphasise long-term and permanent career roles

available – because kiwifruit seasonal work spans up to 48 weeks in the year. “As NZ’s largest horticultural earner, it’d be great to see more Kiwis reaching out to their local kiwifruit employers and discussing potential career pathways that may be on offer. “We want to empower people to choose employers – there are a range of employers offering a range of work roles and conditions. So choose an employer that works for you – if you need ﬂexibility, choose someone that offers this, look for the right pay rates, for things you need out of a job – don’t just take the ﬁrst job offered.” Find out more at: www.facebook.com/ KiwifruitJobsNZ Merle Foster

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Should a seasonal labour shortage be declared early? Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller is calling for the Government to urgently declare a seasonal worker shortage in the region. But the Ministry of Social Development says it’s too early to declare a shortage because the kiwifruit picking season hasn’t began yet. And NZ Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated chief executive officer Nikki Johnson agrees, saying: “You can’t apply for a labour shortage until you have one”. Todd says declaring a labour shortage now would allow for work visa applications to be fast-tracked. Kiwifruit growers are preparing for another bumper harvest this season, but once again are struggling to find workers to get the fruit off the vine. “The Government has the tools to fix the problem, but are failing to understand the urgency of the situation for orchardists who need more workers – not more working groups.” Todd says fruit growers are grateful the Government lifted the Recognised Seasonal Employer scheme cap last year “but that doesn’t go nearly far enough in a season some are calling a ‘perfect storm’ of big crops and a worker shortage”. The Government has announced a review of the RSE scheme in 2019, but Todd says seasonal fruit won’t wait for another round of consultation.

Regional Commissioner Mike Bryant says: “We’re continuing to talk with industry about expected supply of labour, which we know can be hard to predict. Predictions will become clearer in the next few months as the harvest season approaches”. Nikki says last season it took four weeks after the shortage occurred for a declaration to be declared. “It’s not helpful if the process for declaring a shortage takes a long time as it can be too late to help with that season – which is what happened last year.We’d prefer to be in a situation this year where our recruitment campaign works and we don’t have a shortage.” Nikki says only two things come from a declared labour shortage. The industry gets lots of publicity, and those in NZ on a visitor visa can apply for a short-term working visa. “The reality is that might get us a few hundred people but it isn’t going to get us the level of people we need to fill a shortage. So declaring a labour shortage in itself is not a solution to a labour shortage.” Nikki says 2018 was the first time in recent years the labour declaration process had been used. “We learnt a lot from it and so I’m confident if we need to we could do things faster anyway. In response to Todd, Nikki says: “It is our understanding that you can’t declare a labour shortage until you have a labour shortage. We’ll be closely monitoring the situation as we start harvest.”

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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Taneatua farmers take regional title “Do what is right” – that’s the mantra of Whakatane dairy farmers Fraser and Katherine McGougan, who aim to operate their business in an environmentally sustainable manner. It’s paid off – they were named 2019 Bay of Plenty Ballance Farm Environment Awards’ Supreme Award winners at a gala dinner at TrustPower Baypark in late-February. Fraser and Katherine took over the farm at Taneatua from Fraser’s parents in 2011. This season they’re milking 431 cows on 150ha – 134ha effective – on Willowvale Farms next to the Whakatane River. All waterways have been fenced and the family is now fencing off small areas of native bush featuring stands of large kahikatea. “We’re also rejuvenating these bush areas with our three young children helping to do additional planting.” A Bay of Plenty Regional Council land management officer has helped with planting, plus weed and pest advice. Fraser’s had some success using Cinnabar moth to control ragwort and is considering use of a biological control to manage Californian thistles. Efficient use of farm fertiliser is managed using a GPS mapping system attached to a spreader. Soil testing is undertaken biannually on every paddock with a block test in alternate years. “This means we’re getting the right type and rate of fertiliser applied to where it’s needed.” A heat recovery system on the cowshed’s refrigeration unit provides free hot water to 52 degrees Celsius. Fresh water is reused up to three times in the cowshed before entering the effluent pond.

Ambassador

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Fraser and Katherine McGougan are 2019’s Bay of Plenty Ballance Farm Environment Awards Supreme Award winners. Photo: BOP Ballance Farm Environment Awards. with replanting. “We see this as a great way to open the farm-gate so people can experience ﬁrst-hand the positive things that are happening on dairy farms.” The judges said: “Fraser and Katherine are a great team with complementary skills covering planning, key metrics and cost control, as well as excellent HR practices and policies – evidenced by the ongoing success achieved by their employees”. “A passion for the future of the dairy industry also motivates the couple to be involved outside the farm gate.” And that: “Fraser’s enthusiasm for collecting information about soils and nutrients is remarkable. Farm activities are considered within this context”. The McGougans also won four other awards – the Ballance Agri-Nutrients Soil Management Award for excellent management of soil as well as appropriate use of nutrients; the DairyNZ Sustainability and Stewardship Award recognising dairy farmers who demonstrate a strong commitment to managing, protecting and enhancing their environment; the Norwood Agri-Business Management Award for the approach

The couple were met with a standing ovation as they accepted their title and trophy. Katherine thanked Fraser, saying he makes up large portion of why they were on-stage. “His knowledge of soils, pastures, his enthusiasm for the environment, the way he interacts with his staff – thank you Fraser,” said Katherine, who hopes to represent the BOP well in the national awards. Fraser thanked awards sponsors and fellow contestants, then said he’d like to put together a group of farmers, growers, and industry professionals interested in environmental sustainability discussion. “This can be in any form, anyway, anywhere – because as we bounce ideas off each other we can grow stronger and lead and help others. That’s kind of why I entered this competition; it’s not for us, it’s for others and trying to get information and disseminate it out to others.” He also paid tribute to a lost colleague, saying primary producers have a lot pressure put on them and he encouraged people across the industry to look after each other. Run by the NZ Farm Environment Trust, the awards champion sustainable farming and growing through an awards programme. One regional supreme winner is selected from each of 11 regions. The 11 winners will be proﬁled at the awards’ National Sustainability Showcase in Hamilton, on June 6, with each competing for the national Gordon Stephenson Trophy. The McGougans will also host an on-farm ﬁeld day offering a pan-sector forum for networking and sharing ideas and information among farming/growing peers, agribusiness professionals and the wider community. This will be held on March 26. 0800 843 809 0800 843 809

Minimising waste and recycling are everyday activities. Ballage wrap and scrap metal are recycled. And Fraser is a climate change ambassador for DairyNZ. This role involves keeping up-to-date with science, feeding this back to other farmers. The McGougans are planning an eco-tourism operation by renovating an old cottage to be located in bush so visitors can help

farmers take to accomplish important management practices of operating a successful farm business, including development and use of a business plan, benchmarking and succession planning; and the Bay of Plenty Regional Council Environment Award, for good environmental practices that are sustainable and beneﬁcial for the environment of the whole farm.

Merle Foster

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Top young grower eyes orchard ownership New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated Orchard ownership is the long-term goal for Alex Ashe – 2019’s Bay of Plenty Young CEO Nikki Johnson says it is essential that young people are attracted to join the kiwifruit Grower of the Year. industry to achieve the industry’s forecasted Alex, 24, who is a technical advisor with Farmlands Te Puna, was announced winner of the top award at a gala dinner at Mount Maunganui in February. Runner-up was Hamish McKain, an avocado production manager at DMS Progrowers, while Emily Crum, an orchard manager at Prospa (EastPack) Te Puke, was third. The winners were announced following their last challenge – delivering a speech before an audience of 420 at the awards dinner on February 13. Earlier, the eight contestants took part in a day of practical and theory events at the Te Puke A&P Show on February 9. Delighted to receive the top award, Alex says it was not all about winning. “It is about the experience, challenging myself and meeting new people. “It was such an enjoyable event because everybody was there to support each other, and everyone wants to help the youth of the industry do their best. “Anybody who is looking to compete next year, give it a go; it’s a great event,” says Alex, who one day hopes to own his own orchard.

Impressive speech

Alex has a Bachelor of agricultural science, majoring in horticulture from Massey University. Outside of his role with Farmlands, Alex enjoys motorbike riding and hunting. His prize includes all expenses paid to compete for the title of national Young Grower of the Year 2019 in Tauranga in October. There, he’ll join the winners of the Nelson, Hawke’s Bay, Gisborne, and Central Otago regionals, and a Young Vegetable Grower, to compete for the national title, sponsored by the Horticentre Trust. He also received $1500 cash. Alex also excelled in individual challenges, and especially impressed judges with his speech on future disruptors to the horticulture industry. Bay of Plenty Young Fruit Growers Upskilling Committee chair Andrew Dawson says the 2019 event has again proven to have a high calibre of competitors. “Congratulations to all of the contestants who displayed exceptional skills, as well as showing off the great variety of opportunities that are available in the horticulture industry.”

growth.

Growth industry

“The Young Fruit Grower competition provides an excellent example of the different commercial, technical and scientific opportunities that the

industry offers. I’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate all of this year’s competitors who have displayed the talent our industry has.” Horticulture New Zealand chief executive Mike Chapman agrees, saying these competitions are a highlight of the annual horticulture calendar. “As a Bay of Plenty local, I know that talented young people like Alex exist in our industry. The BOP Young Grower competition shows the rest of the country what we’ve been saying all along – horticulture is a growth industry, and you can make an excellent career out of it if you put the effort in. “Alex and the other contestants are exactly the kind of people the future of our industry will be based on, and it’s great to see them getting the limelight 글 Elaine Fisher they deserve.”

글

Top Right: The 2019 BOP Young Grower of the Year is Alex Ashe, a technical advisor with Farmlands Te Puna. Above: Alex Ashe shows his tractor skills at the contest’s practical day at Te Puke A&P Show. Left: Planting trees was also part of the contest’s practical component.

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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

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Harvest-time at a Waikato tea plantation An air of anticipation and excitement sweeps over the Zealong Tea Estate, north of Hamilton, as their first harvest of the season gets underway It’s November – old acquaintances have been renewed and newcomers have been welcomed into the team. The last harvest was March 2018. During the break from picking, the

estate’s 1.2 million Camellia sinensis plants have been nurtured and prepared for harvests in the first three weeks of November, January and March. In accordance with the estate’s certified organic status, certified an approved organic products have been sourced from all over the world and applied to the 22ha of tea plants. The founder of Zealong Tea, Vincent Chen, famously brought 1500 cuttings in from Asia in 1996, to try growing them in New Zealand. All of the 1.2 million plants at Zealong today have been propagated from the original 130 cuttings that survived NZ quarantine more than 22 years ago. Zealong’s research and development manager Fabien Maisonneuve tells Coast & Country News of the lead up to the three annual harvests and the methods used at the estate. “It is important to remember that the surviving plants were the strongest, most resistant ones, and their traits are reflected throughout the plants today,” says Fabien. 0800 843 809 0800 843 809

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Research and development manager at Zealong, Fabien Maisonneuve. Photo: Catherine Fry. from picking to packaging is organic,” says Fabien. “While it may be more costly, it is right for Zealong. Everything is completely traceable – who picked it, when they picked it, and from which block it was picked.” It is the tea masters and farm manager who decide Traditional hands-on practices on a daily basis which blocks will be picked and All year, what happens to the plants is carefully when. They control how often the tea is brought up monitored by the tea masters. The science behind the plant care, and smell, taste and quality of the teas to the factory for processing, and which type of tea it produced from each harvest, is a result of every meas- will be processed into. Tea picking is an art and is done by hand, requirured action throughout the year. “Our whole process Functional Fertiliser ing highly trained workers who can deftly cut the top Functional Fertiliser supplies nutrient three leaves from a stalk, minimising damage to the supplies fullfull nutrient packages based packages based on on plant that slows regeneration. Top pickers tape razor blades to their fingers, and work at speeds that only ® ® experience can bring. “In the past 80 per cent of our workers were from overseas, but after training programmes 80 per cent of our workers are now locals,” says Fabien. application ForFor application by by Around 20 expert processors work shifts in the groundspreader aerialfactory throughout the harvests, and around 60 tea groundspreader or or aerial Functional Fertiliser pickers are employed. Many of the overseas specialsupplies full nutrient ist workers are from plantations in Asia, and return there for the picking season, migrating between the packages based on ...continued countries for work. ® www.functionalfertiliser.co.nz www.functionalfertiliser.co.nz

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Process from picking to packing is organic fully, monitoring each stage and saying when the tea can move onto each stage of processing, depending on whether they want green, oolong or black tea. Some tea is blended with different herbs and spices to make the extensive range of blended teas Zealong produces. The care and expertise shown to these plants is evident at every stage of the process to produce 20 tonnes of finished tea each year, from growing to picking, drying to blending, and in the beautifully packaged and presented final product Catherine Fry

‘The Transformer’, a multi-purpose, one-of-a kind tractor which straddles two rows of tea as it trims, prunes, mows, weeds, ploughs, or spreads fertiliser. Photo: Zealong Tea.

A tea picking basket out in the field. Photo: Zealong Tea.

continued...

Traditionally, the November picking harvests the nutrient, rich, young leaves that are ideal for the high quality green teas, and oolong teas. January harvests, when the weather is hotter and drier, are used for stronger oolong and black teas. The March harvest produces tea suitable for oolong, and if cool enough, green tea. Picked tea is initially collected in plastic baskets that have holes for aeration and can be washed easily. “How often the tea is taken from the field to the factory is entirely dependent on which type of tea they are picking for,” says Fabien.

Picking supervisor Kunthea San demonstrates the art of tea picking. Photo: Catherine Fry. Leaves must not start to oxidise and dry out until the factory can control the oxidation speed. Green tea in a temperature and humidity controlled environment, complete with fans and ventilation. remains unoxidised, while black tea is fully oxidised. The very hands-on process is carried out by skilled Zealong’s 2015-built factory has a state-of-the-art processors who understand the requirements for glass house area where tea is laid out on mats to dry making the finest tea Tea is laid out on stacked withering trays for further drying. Using traditional techniques to separate clinging leaves, 100kg at a time are put through bamboo drums to oxygenate them, and then laid out on bamboo trays to oxidise. Drying and shaping is carried out using several different machines, after which the tea is now in small, dried balls. The end product is rough tea and can be fine-tuned to fit client requirement The expert tea masters touch and smell the tea care-

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Withering trays in the factory. Photo: Zealong Tea.

Trays of oxidising tea in the factory. Photo: Zealong Tea.

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RETIREMENT

What the next stage of life looks like – is up to you! There’s a lot to think about when those in land-based professions begin to plan their exit strategies from working life – whether it be in agriculture, horticulture or aquaculture industries. Firstly, is there need to think about land, home or business sale? Or does the would-be retiree have family keen to take things over? If so, succession planning is a must. There’s a helpful resource on this at: www.dairynz.co.nz

Finances weigh heavily on when to make the move to retire – is it best to exit a market at its peak, when money for retirement will be better than when an industry is not performing so well? Has health implications exacerbated the need to think of retirement? If so, do you also need to put your affairs in place – think wills, trusts, estates? It may be time to see a lawyer and sift through your options. Then there’s the social and mental implications of actually leaving the farm or orchard – or shifting offsite of the business you’ve invested much of your

life in. For some, it may only mean stepping back, while still living on-site, to watch younger family members take the operation to a new level or down a more modern pathway. Still this may be hard to swallow. For others it will be breaking ties with rural life – sometimes overnight. Then creeps in the social quandaries of how to spend your days, make new friends, keep in touch with old ones, and keep your much-loved ties and passion with the land. According to a Retire Happy online blog, here’s some tips that will hold in good stead for your years to come. First, take care of your health and make ﬁtness a priority. “Quality of life is directly related to how well you feel, how much energy you have, how many aches and pains you suffer, your sleep patterns, appetite, sex drive, and immune system. Exercise can improve each of these factors if done on a regular basis. Your health is the basement

Retirement is not a one-size-fits all concept – so plan yours to suit how you want to live your next chapter of life. you build on and so it needs to be as solid as possible,” says writer Donna McCaw. Prepare for the retirement process. “Find out about sources of income, track your cash flow, get your team of advisors ready, be aware of your psychological and relationship issues, find activity options, consider part-time work, and educate yourself to avoid retirement shock. “Take a course, talk candidly to a retired mentor, read books and blogs on the subject. Get a

heads-up on the possible problems because a whole new lifestyle is not just about the money.” Other considerations include paying off debts while still working, saving earlier and saving more, working with a ﬁnancial planner, and travelling while you can. And – don’t be afraid to retire. “Retirement is not a one-size-ﬁts all concept. Make of it what you wish. It’s a transition rather than an event and it is up to the individual what the next stage of life looks like.”

Blueberry research offers beneﬁts to older adults

peer review and should be published in coming The New Zealand blueberry industry is poised months. for growth as science edges closer to conclu“We can reveal this important research has sively proving that blueberries are able to shown that a single serving of blueberries beneﬁt cognitive and mental health across early in the day in healthy older adults helps the lifespan. to maintain their cognitive performance UK Professor Claire Williams, who is through the rest of the day,” says Claire. chair of Neuroscience in the School of Blueberries NZ chairman Dan Peach says Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences this is great news for consumers and also the at the University of Reading, says her latest industry in New Zealand. research investigating the short-term effects Professor Claire “As the science community continues to of blueberries on cognitive performance Williams. in older adults is currently going through ...continued

RETIREMENT

Page 9

Encounter Africa – and all it has to offer Karen Platzer, owner of African Encounters, has been taking small tour groups to Africa for more than 30 years and never tires of it. “I also lived in Africa for a while and was involved in ‘mass tourism’ and when I came to New Zealand I decided to start my own tour group for the 50-plus age group and have a maximum of eight people in a tour group,” says Karen. Karen concentrates on tours to southern Africa including Botswana, Zambia, Namibia and Zimbabwe and also Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar in East Africa. “I personally escort ﬁve trips a year

“Some of the highlights of the trips are encountering the wonderful African wildlife in its natural habitat, cultural experiences and visiting conservation projects such as protecting rhino from poachers,” says Karen. Giving back to the local com-

munities is very important to Karen and her groups visit local schools and workshops for the disabled where their designs are available to purchase. There are a few spaces left on this year’s Namibia safari, Kenya safari and Botswana safari but

these won’t last long. “All the countries I take my clients to are safe to travel in. I organise tours back-to-back to save the cost of ﬂights and I have a lot of repeat business,” says Karen.

Helen Wilson

H Discover Africa With The Experts H An encounter with elephants. Left: Karen Platzer, owner of African Encounters. and the trips last two to three weeks. We spend as little time as possible in the cities and most days are spent in private camps and conservation areas. The group have their own private vehicles and I have my preferred guides.

New hearing clinic in Rotorua Rotorua now has a new hearing clinic, which opened at the end of February.

Mike Carter has been in the hearing aid business for more than 40 years, Trish has 18 years’ involvement and daughter Kate has 19 years’ experience. They also employ other qualiﬁed audiologists and experienced staff. “Because we are an independent hearing provider, we can offer the same high quality hearing aids at more affordable prices. “We don’t charge for follow-up appointments and we don’t pay our staff commission on sales. We encourage prospective clients to shop around and get the best price,” says Trish. Kate Robertson and Karen Smith. Once ﬁtted, hearing aids “We have two other clinics, one in require adjusting from time to time Henderson and one in Thames – and and Total Hearing Care offer this as we noticed a gap in the lower end of a free service, where other providers the market in Rotorua, and decided to charge for ongoing appointments. make affordable hearing aids availTotal Hearing Care offer free hearing able to the people of Rotorua,” says tests to people age above 40 years and Trish Carter, who along with husband, can offer a mobile service, conditions Mike, own Total Hearing Care. do apply. They are ACC and MinisTotal Hearing Care is a family busitry of Health approved. Subsidies are ness, with their daughter Kate also available for eligible clients. working for the company.

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WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY… “Our first safari lunch under the trees was interrupted by a small elephant group wandering past. I was speechless!! The small group approach staying in private conservancies meant we were often the only spectators. I was on a high the whole time and although I am widely travelled, our trip to Botswana was the best!! I was quite nervous about going to Africa but once I was there, I felt in very safe hands the whole time. Africa is magical! If you get the chance - go for it! African Encounters will deliver a truly memorable experience!” Christine, Auckland

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ARE YOU STILL PRETENDING YOU CAN HEAR?

Discovering more fruitful benefits continued...

study our fruit, and the health beneﬁts are veriﬁed, we expect shoppers to take action and buy more regularly. “Last summer NZ families bought fresh blueberries around 3.5 times each, meaning each household consumed an average volume of 730g,” says Dan. Professor Williams has other research underway that is due out later this year looking at the effects of four weeks of daily consumption of blueberries on mood. This work is a follow-up to an acute study by Khalid et al, 2017, showing that blueberries given to both young

adults and seven-10 year old children can produce boosts in positive mood two hours after consumption, has shown blueberries can help to induce better mood in adolescents. This work is currently being written up for publication in a peer-reviewed journal. The recent Blueberries NZ season launch featured UK Professor Claire Williams and NZ pole vault champion Eliza McCartney, who has been ambassador for Blueberries NZ for three years. For more information, see: www.blueberriesnz.co.nz

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Page 10

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Trapping for fruit flies continues Horticulturalists nationwide are watching on nervously as biosecurity teams work furiously to find out if more of either of two fruit fly species are present in New Zealand. Two species of fruit fly were detected in different parts of Auckland in mid-February, sparking two mass biosecurity operations to determine if an incursion of either specie is evident. As Coast & Country News went to print no evidence of a breeding population of either specie had been found and no incursions had been confirmed – but trapping in the three suburbs was beefed up.

Detections

Detections began with a single male Queensland Fruit Fly collected from a fruit fly trap and formally identified on February 14 at Devonport. A second single male QFF was detected on February 20 at Northcote – again

inspected in our mobile laboratory with no from a surveillance trap. Another QFF was detections to date.” found in a surveillance trap at Northcote on Catherine says QFF has been detected February 25 – it was 113m from the original before in the upper North Island in the last detection there. decade. “Biosecurity NZ’s staff are well prac“This latest detection is further evidence tised in dealing with this situation. that our surveillance programme is working and it is pleasing we still have Serious harm no indication of an estabA Facialis “If it established here, the QFF lished breeding population,” fruit fly could seriously harm the counsays Biosecurity NZ spokestry’s fruit and vegetable crops and person Dr Catherine Duthie. affect exports of some produce. If “Our trapping and surveila breeding population is found, lance has been enhanced and work will progress to eradicate it.” this programme will find any Meanwhile, Biosecurity NZ is further flies in the area. also investigating the discovery of Response another type of fruit fly in Otara. On Febr ary 19 a single male Bactrocera facialis fruit Catherine says 140 Biosecurity NZ staff, contractors and industry partners are working fly – known as Facialis Fruit Fly – was found in a surveillance trap there. On February 22 a on the response. “In addition to the trapping, second FFF was found in a surveillance trap Biosecurity NZ staff are collecting fruit from backyards in Zone A at Northcote and check- 70m from the first detection. “We remain of the view that it is highly unlikely a breeding this for larvae. ing population of Facialis would establish in “More than 300kg of fruit has been

A Queensland fruit fly NZ because of our climate. Facialis has never established anywhere in the world outside of Tonga,” says Catherine. “However, our enhanced surveillance programme in the area will continue as a precautionary measure.” Overall, three QFF and two FFF have been found in less than two weeks during February. A total of 548 traps are laid, 422 bins are place for locals to dispose of fruit and vegetables. So far 2757kg of fruit has been collected.

NAIT reminder OSPRI is calling on NAIT users to reregister all their locations and ensure NAIT accounts are up-to-date following a key system upgrade. The upgrade will assist farmers and industry when using the national animal traceability system, and they are required to update their details before March 31, says head of NAIT, Kevin Forward. The enhancement involves development of an interactive map, which uses Land Information New Zealand parcel data to accurately define a NAIT location. “This is a progressive step for the NAIT system. The new interactive map tool makes it more straightforward for NAIT users when they go online to register their properties, says Kevin. “Reselecting the land parcels that make up your NAIT location will help us build more effective traceability through precisely identifying the locations where NAIT animals are kept.” Existing and new NAIT users are required to update their contact details, declare their herd enterprise type and the number of other species they manage at their properties by March 31. “Updating your NAIT account details is paramount. This is not only mandatory, it has also proved beneficial towards the Government and industry’s Mycoplasma bovis response,” says Kevin. “We know that where accurate records have been maintained for registered NAIT locations and the animals kept there, the tracing of animals and their movements has been faster and easier.” Kevin says the system upgrade was made in response to the recent NAIT review recommendations and feedback from NAIT users. “We’ve listened to farmers, industry and our stakeholders. Our long-term goal is to build trust and confidence in the NAIT system. To improve NAIT’s capability, users need to ensure they have updated their accounts and registered all the locations and animals they have there before March 31.” Meanwhile, OSPRI has informed stakeholders, farmers and the wider industry of the changes and the necessary actions all NAIT users are required to do. A guide is also available on the OSPRI website at: https://ospri.co.nz Farmers unsure about what is required or unable to navigate the NAIT online system are encouraged to call the OSPRI contact centre on 0800 482 463.

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

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PIAKO & DISTRICTS

Page 12

New name – same effective effluent products Vaughan Cook Builders along with Bowers Brothers Concrete have recently purchased Precast Concrete Products from Trevor Christensen, who has owned the business for the last 20 years.

The company has been renamed Paeroa Precast Concrete Ltd but still continues with the strong emphasis on customer service and supply of quality concrete products nationwide. “With ongoing technical support from Trevor, the expertise of the long-term staff, Bowers Brothers’ extensive knowl-

edge of concrete and pre-casting, and my 25-year building experience in dairy, light commercial and residential fields, the company will continue to pr vide innovative and effective farm effluent solutions, says Vaughan Cook of Vaughan Cook Builders. One of Paeroa Precast Concrete Ltd’s products that really stands out is the Precast concrete panel effluent tank “Staff manufacture the modular panel concrete tanks ranging in size from 47,000-400,000 litres,” says Vaughan. “The walls are assembled on-site, then the base is poured to complete the tank. With a sloping floor and recess to take the A Paeroa Precast concrete panel effluent pump these tanks tank can be manufactured in sizes from empty completely, 47,000-400,000 litres. A Paeroa Precast stone trap, with thus eliminating a Paeroa Precast concrete panel “The tanks are completed with a safety the common probeffluent tank in the background fence, giving peace of mind and offering the lem of crusting.” complete solution for larger dairies and enviThe Precast effluent tank can be built in areas with ronmental requirements.” high water tables and most positions and situations. Paeroa Precast Concrete Ltd, located at 13 Puke “And with the increasing trend towards concrete Rd, Paeroa, also manufactures stone traps, weepfeed pads, the Precast concrete effluent tank is the ing walls, solids bins, bunkers and supply masonry, complete answer to simple and effective dairy shed paving, landscaping products and outdoor fireplaces waste management,” says Vaughan.

Majority oppose wind farm project Pre-hearing meetings to narrow down issues from submitters to a proposed wind farm on the Kaimai Ranges, south of Paeroa, are being organised after a majority of submissions opposed the project. Submissions to Kaimai Windfarm Ltd’s proposed wind farm project closed January 31. Hauraki District Council received 220 submissions on the proposal – 57 in support of it and 157 opposed to the idea. Waikato Regional Council received 143 submissions – 96 against and 42 in support of the proposal. And around 11 submissions were sitting on the fence without leaning one way or the other, according to Hauraki Farming’s hard work and you can’t afford to muck around. Get it done and dusted District Council senior communications officer Paula Trubshaw with the help of our Buckton spreaders. They’re a great combo of Kiwi engineering nextfast. steps in the process are and European technology. Our spreaders will return nutrients to the“The field, now being finalised but will likely include some pre-hearing meetings Give the team at Piako Tractors a call today. to try to reach some agreement and

narrow down the issues to be heard at a later hearing. “The hearing itself is expected to take place before the middle of the year and will give submitters the opportunity to present their views verbally to independent commissioners, who will be appointed by both councils to make a decision on the proposal.” Paula says there is also possibility an applicant may apply for direct referral to the Environment Court. “In this case the hearing would be held there and the decision would be made by the Environment Court without the involvement of council-appointed commissioners.” Kaimai Windfarm Ltd lodged resource consent applications with HDC and WRC last July to establish and operate a wind farm. The proposed farm would have the capacity to provide an estimated 400GWH of power per annum to

the national grid. The applications, which are being processed jointly by the two councils, cover the proposed construction of 24 large-scale wind turbines across 1304ha near Rotokohu Rd on the northwestern area of the Kaimai Ranges, south of Paeroa. Seven of the proposed turbines would be 180m high to blade tip standing upright – 17 of them would be 207m high. Other proposed structures include a substation, two lattice transmission towers, two overhead power lines, and 18km of on-site roading. An on-site quarry to supply material for the roads is also proposed. Applications also cover vegetation removal and earthworks associated with construction of the project. More detailed information is at: www.hauraki-dc.govt.nz/kaimaiwind-farm-project

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LIFESTYLE FARMING

Page 13

Take a closer look at eye irritations for pink eye Pink eye is a disease that usually occurs in the summer and autumn seasons, causing sore inﬂamed eyes. The disease is caused by highly contagious bacteria called Moraxella bovis, which can be transferred easily from animal-to-animal by way of ﬂies or simply brushing up against common things like the seed heads on long grass.

Pink eye can range from a mild irritation to painful eye ulcers, and if advanced can lead to irreversible blindness. Any sign of eye irritation in your animals deserves a closer look, especially during these warm late summer months. An important part of control is to separate out affected animals from the rest of the group and contact your local vet clinic for assistance. Blindness can develop as soon as two-three days after

Time is of the essence in terms of tending to pink eye.

the initial infection, so time is of the essence in terms of tending to pink eye in individuals. Fortunately, there is effective medication for this condition that can be provided by your local veterinarian.

The growing wonders of humate for your home garden Humate is the purest form of natural organic matter known to man and one of the most complex substances on earth, says Tauranga’s Dave Whitteker, who has been involved with humates for more than 20 years.

“As a result, they’re a safe, organic addition to crops of any size, or to home gardens. “Plants grown in soil rich with humic substances produce higher yields, provide better nutrition and are less prone to stress compared with plants grown in soils lacking humate.” “This amazing product is the result of Humates also improve quality of millions of years of forest residue broken fruit, vegetables and ﬂowers and when down and is found in a seam directly mixed with fertiliser or lime, humates above coal and below peat,” says the hold on to those nutrients until plants managing director of Dave’s Garden require them. Products. Dave says humate also greatly Using humates restores natural balance in soil “Widely regarded as up to 20 times improves soil quality and makes availanecessary for optimal plant growth. more potent than regular compost, ble to the plant roots locked-up minerals “Humates are an organic rich source of humate has many, many positive and nutrients as well as all the trace eleenergy, carbon and beneﬁcial bacteria, attributes,” says Dave, who sells a range of ments essential for good plant health. which aid overall plant health and provide humate blends – liquids and powder – for For more information, and to read a natural form of protection against plant the home garden under the Dave’s Garden some excellent testimonials, visit: pests. Products brand. www.davesgardenproducts.co.nz Organic humate Humate is the world’s oldest and most concentrated form of compost and is widely regarded as the purest form of natural matter known to man. • • • •

BOOST your gardens potential and grow tastier and healthier vegetables! All products now available in easy to carry 8 kilo bags and can be sourced from your nearest Farmlands store. Visit www.davesgardenproducts.co.nz for more information and testimonials.

Found in a seam directly between peat and coal, humate is very rich in carbon as well as humic and fulvic acids and various trace elements. Dave’s organic humate is up to 20x more potent than regular compost. Humate dramatically improves root growth, flowering and fruiting volume of plants and is very easy and non-toxic to apply (BioGro certified). Absolutely ideal to use in poor, sandy soils or heavy clay where it adds valuable carbon to the soil, improving biology and stopping vital trace elements from leaching.

Ideal for all plants, lawns and pasture. Humate is the core ingredient in all our products. Growth Booster Pellets Sheep manure + humate pellets. Get all the goodies from the sheep poo plus excellent carbon from the humate. An 80/20 blend of sheep manure and humate, adds organic matter to improve soil structure, encourages earthworms and nourishes your plants. Use for balanced plant growth. Ideal for citrus trees, shrubs and vegetable gardens. Turbo Garden Blend Our most popular product. A blend of worm castings, humate and trace elements offer a wide range of benefits including providing beneficial nutrients to plants. Improves soil structure and promotes root growth and nutrient absorption. Ideal for all plant types. Magic-Mix Pellets A 50/50 blend of chicken manure and humate. Get all the goodies from the chicken poo plus the addition of humate to break it down quickly adding to the soil valuable organic matter, natural nitrogen and vital trace elements. Ideal for all vegetables, leafy crops and flowering plants.

LIFESTYLE FARMING

Page 14

Breeding assistance dogs in the country It was a job re-location that triggered the move from Auckland to the Waikato for couple Julie and Rick Hancox. 0800 843 809 0800 843 809

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Julie, a guide dog trainer and instructor, was offered a role in the Waikato and they jumped at the opportunity to leave city life behind. In 2006 they bought a 10.25ha bare block of rolling hill country in Ngutunui. Set on the southern slopes of Mount Pirongia, with panoramic views of hills and bush, the property is still within easy reach of civilisation. “We both love being a bit remote,” says Julie. Functional Fertiliser

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country life

Rick, an ex-project manager for an Auckland building company, and carpenter by trade, immediately set to work managing the build of an American-style barn on the property.

Once the shell and concrete pad was up, he took over and finished the building himself. A section of the barn was made into a flat for the couple, with the view to building a house one day “soon”. “That was 12 years ago and earlier this year we have finally started our new house and Rick is working on it daily.” While Julie has some dairy farm experience, Rick was new to the ‘farmlet’ life. He’s taken responsibility for maintaining the land and looking after the animals. They have always run Wiltshire sheep, with numbers swelling to around 200 after lambing. “We now have a flock of fully-shedding Wiltshires,” says Julie. “Which lifestyle farmers find easy as they don’t require any shearing and are easy care, but also a great meat sheep.” Julie has three heading dogs, ‘Widget’, ‘Bluff’ and ‘Gaze’, for helping on their block and for her “part-time hobby” going to sheepdog trials.

Assistance dogs

In 2008, Assistance Dogs New Zealand was founded as a charitable trust and the Hancox property became the base of operations for the breeding, raising and training of assistance dogs for individuals and families living with a disability. ADNZ breeds and trains dogs to help people, mainly children, with disabilities such as autism, Down syndrome, chromosome disorders, global developmental delay, foetal alcohol syndrome, cerebral palsy, charge syndrome and multiple sclerosis. “Realising there was a huge need

for this kind of help, we wanted to create an organisation that would provide them with the opportunity to obtain an assistance dog through a NZ provider that would be able to certify public access rights so the dogs could legally be used in all environments,” says Julie.

Specially bred After her years training guide dogs, Julie knew they would have the greatest success with dogs specially bred for this purpose. With the help of a kind donation, the ﬁrst two dogs were imported from Guide Dogs Queensland and became ADNZ’s founding breeding stock. Currently, ADNZ has two active brood bitches and one active stud dog for their programme, with replacement stock growing up on the puppy programme. Frozen semen for artiﬁcial insemination is also used to keep up genetic diversity, and as a cheaper alternative to keeping live stud dogs on the programme. Currently, only labrador retrievers and golden retrievers are used in the programme. Raising and training these dogs takes $20,000 and around two years to complete, and approximately a further $5000 a year, per dog, for organisation running costs. “While we have young dogs in different stages of training and development with ADNZ, we can only breed as many puppies each year as we are able to train place and support.” ADNZ currently has volunteer puppy raisers who take the pups from eight weeks to 14-18 months.

...continued

LIFESTYLE FARMING

Page 15

Bringing canine help to those who need it continued...

“At this time we only have one full-time trainer and while we do need more trainers they need to pass through a two-year training programme, followed by a third year should they wish to become an instructor,” says Julie. “Similar to an apprenticeship training programme, we need funds to pay them as they learn and work, which is just not possible currently.” ADNZ is a registered, not-for-proﬁt charity, and is internationally accredited and recognised around the world. The NZ Government has legally recognised the organisation to provide certiﬁcation to their dogs for legal public access.

difference that an assistance dog can bring to the lives of a disabled person and their family.

Rick and Julie Hancox with ADNZ brood bitch ‘Frankie’ and heading dogs, ‘Gaze’ and ‘Bluff’. Julie Hancox with ADNZ dogs ‘Asher’, Frankie’ and one of her heading dogs. “At this stage we receive no government funding, so we are ﬁnancially unable to meet the high demand for the dogs,” says Julie. “Funding comes from puppy sponsorship, annual appeal, private donations and sometimes bequests. “Basically, we need a big corporate sponsor to give us a bucket-load of money and tell us to get on with moving ADNZ to the next level – training up staff to ensure sustainability and to increase supply of these dogs in the community.” In the meantime, ADNZ does as much as it can with the resources and money it has. The reward being the major

For more information, see: www.assistancedogstrust.org.nz Catherine Fry

EDUCATION

Page 16

Boarding school offers a home away from home Boarding opportunities for young women are part of the special character of Waikato Diocesan School for Girls and boarding is embedded in the charter and vision for the school.

Most boarding staff also teach in the day school. Mary says for the school’s 160 boarders, developing caring attitudes towards each other and the wider community is the foundation of their boarding experience. “Through a school-wide Peer Support Programme and icebreaker weekend at the start of the year, the girls quickly ﬁnd friends, mentors, and ‘big sisters’ among the older students.” Senior students are encouraged to take more responsibility for them-

all-round education, the special character, and the family atmosphere. “Students live with other students from their academic year in one of ﬁve boarding houses. “All meals are included in the fees and each house is centrally heated, carpeted and furnished,” says Mary. Professional, nurturing boarding staff provide the students with a safe and positive place in which to live and grow. Homework is supervised and subject specialists provide additional tuition if needed.

Principal Mary Curran says boarder families send their daughters to Waikato Diocesan for many reasons: the boarding experience, the

EPSOM EPSOMHOUSE HOUSE EPSOM HOUSE Boarding BoardingPositions Positions 2020 2020

selves and to become more independent. And Year 13 students have individual study bedrooms and share kitchen and living facilities. They cook their own meals in the weekends. “Waikato Diocesan School for Girls’ boarding promotes a safe and caring environment in which students can grow into conﬁdent, responsible young adults. “We welcome your application to Dio. Please come to our Open Day on March 15,” says Mary. Or email: admissions@wdsg.school.nz

Boarding Positions 2020

Waikato Diocesan School for Girls’ boarding promotes a safe and caring environment.

Vocational education overhaul • • • •

• Access to a state school with a tradition of academic excellence for young women from •Access Access a Auckland state school witha atradition traditionofofacademic academic excellence excellence for to to athe state school with for young youngwomen womenfrom from outside area. outside the Auckland area. outside the Auckland area. • A wide range of courses and co-curricular activities in sports, culture, arts and leadership. •A wide A wide range courses andco-curricular co-curricularactivities activities in in sports, sports, culture, culture, arts range of of courses and artsand andleadership. leadership. • We encourage self-esteem and confidence with strong links between home and school. •WeWe encourage self-esteem andconfidence confidencewith withstrong stronglinks links between between home and school. encourage self-esteem and home13 and school. • Full board with weekend leave for young women from Year 9 to Year with caring and • Full board with weekend leaveenvironment. for young women from Year 9 to Year 13 with caring and supportive staff in a safe living Full board with weekend leave for young women from Year 9 to Year 13 with caring and supportive staff in a safe living environment.

supportive staff in a safe living environment.

Open Day - Tuesday 9 April Open Day - Tuesday 9 April

Open Day - Tuesday 9 April Epsom House 1.00-3.00pm

Epsom House 1.00-3.00pm Epsom Girls House Grammar School (morning) Epsom 1.00-3.00pm Epsom Girls Grammar School (morning)

Epsom Girls Grammar School (morning)

Enrolments close: Enrolments close: • Year 9 12 April 2019 Enrolments •• Year 9 close: 12 April 2019 2019 (limited places only) Years10-13 30 August 30 2019 August 2019 (limited places only) • •YearYears10-13 9 12 April further information contact: • For Years10-13 30 August 2019 (limited places only) For further contact: - Chris Barnes Epsom Houseinformation Boarding Administrator House Boarding - Chris Barnes ForEpsom further contact: Phone: (09)information 970 6808 Administrator Email: cbarnes@eggs.school.nz Phone: (09) Boarding 970 6808 Administrator Email: cbarnes@eggs.school.nz Epsom House - Chris Barnes

Phone: (09) 970 6808

The public have until March 27 to submit on the Government’s proposed overhaul of New Zealand’s vocational education sector, which offers courses to those upskilling for work in our agricultural and horticultural industries. Education Minister Chris Hipkins announced last month three key proposals: to merge NZ’s 16 polytechs under the banner of one centralised New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology; create a new vocational education funding system; and make the new national organisation responsible for 145,000 trainees and apprentices to better align on and off-the-job education. Chris says the proposals will strengthen vocational education so school leavers get high quality training opportunities, employers get the skills they need and Kiwis are better equipped for the changing nature of work. “At a time when we’re facing critical skill shortages, too many of our polytechnics and institutes of technology are going broke. “The strong labour market is encouraging young people to move directly into the workforce rather than continue in formal education, when it needs to be

smarter and accommodate both. “And our system isn’t geared up for the future economy, where re-training and up-skilling will be a regular feature of everyone’s working life.” Chris says the proposal would ensure strong regional inﬂuence in the NZ Institute of Skills & Technology via proposed formation of Regional Leadership Groups to identify needs of local economies. “The Government envisages the institute, and perhaps also wananga, host Centres of Vocational Excellence. These power houses of expertise could cover key sectors and industries, which could be broad – for example, agriculture – or speciﬁc, such as viticulture. Federated Farmers rural education spokesperson Andrew Maclean says there’s no question the current system struggles to deliver vocational training that agriculture, horticulture, forestry and other land-based industries require. “We’re looking forward to contributing to this discussion and will be encouraging our members to do the same.” Have you say at: https://conversation. education.govt.nz/conversations/reformof-vocational-education/have-your-say

Email: cbarnes@eggs.school.nz

Waikato Diocesan School for Girls

Open Day 2019 Anglican Boarding School for Years 9 to 13

Friday 15 March Come experience what Dio has to offer at our Open Day 2019. 10.00am – Principal’s welcome in the All Saints Chapel followed by tours of boarding and the day school.

10:00am to 12:00pm Waikato Diocesan School for Girls – Limited on-site parking at Martin Street entrance (off McNicol Street). *No registration required

We welcome your enquiry about joining our school family

phone 07 855 2038 extn 2703

email admissions@wdsg.school.nz

visit www.waikatodiocesan.school.nz

EDUCATION

Page 17

Are you connecting the dots? I recently met with a very smart lady who had started out as a teacher then worked in an accountant’s office, studied to become an accountant with ACA, then a business owner, and now helps in schools again. The point here is she is well qualified to comment on and very concerned about how many people do not “connect the dots”. Let me explain. She said if children arrive at school and cannot hop, skip or stand on one leg, they are unable to learn! It is an interesting point and a good reason to give children plenty of outdoors space. More importantly, she was confirming that given a certain set of circumstances some will make wise choices and others will vary from average to shocking choices. She then talked of people “connecting the dots”. Steve Jobs is computer famous and on record for saying the following: “You cannot connect the dots looking forward, you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to somehow trust that the dots will somehow connect in the future. You have to trust in something – your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down and has made all the difference in my life”. This goes back to that ability to make good decisions, based on your experiences and trusting that in future your dots will connect for the best outcome. A current good example on-farm might be eczema. Have you connected the dots by getting your preventative programme in place now, based on your past experiences, to stop the ravages later? Eczema is an insidious disease that robs livestock of their good health let alone their potential. Do farmers connect the dots that if they do not have sufficient equity after repaying the bank they

may only have enough money to buy a house at say $1m, leaving little or nothing to invest? Did they connect those dots early enough to provide for later on, based on the previous knowledge and experience, or just arrive at retirement age, sell the farm and go bugger? This dot-connecting is similar to thinking there are always consequences following action. This almost feeds into the: “I want it and I want it now” scenario. If you must have everything new at the start and do not save you’ll be short of cash, and in debt probably. Did you not connect the dots that starting out ﬁnancially prudent rather than spending up, you will be better off later on? As the smart lady said – and I found with my rural work throughout NZ – “some people’s ability to make consistent good and logical decisions is appalling”. Many, when they seek help, listen and then go back to their old ways and bad decision-making. So there seems to be three dots. Dot 1: Now, making the decision. Dot 2: Based on your past experience Dot 3: Trusting your instinct that you’ve made the right decision for a future outcome. It’s all a bit profound but if it makes you stop and think, then I have achieved my goal. Don Fraser is principal of Fraser Farm Finance and a consultant to the farming industry. Contact him on mobile 021 777 675 or email: don@fraserﬁnance.co.nz

SONNINGHILL HOSTEL

OPEN DAY Friday 8th March - 10.30am

Prospective boarders and Parents/Caregivers are invited to meet at the Hamilton Girls’ High School Atrium Ward Street, Gate 4, to meet the Principal and have a tour of the school, followed by refreshments and a tour of Sonninghill Hostel. Sonninghill Hostel is a modern boarding hostel, which provides a safe, supportive environment for girls attending Hamilton Girls’ High School. The hostel is located in Marama Street, a short walk to Hamilton Girls’ High School.

VISION:

OUR INTENT:

Hamilton Girls’ High School aspires to empower young women to dare to excel as innovative individuals who are globally connected.

To empower young women to aspire to excellence, make a difference and respond to the diverse needs of individuals.

VALUES: Excellence, identity, resilience, courage, curiosity, creativity

For more information, please contact: Director of Boarding Sonninghill Hostel PO Box 512 Waikato Mail Centre Hamilton 3240

Telephone: (07) 839 0074 Email: director@sonninghill.school.nz

Hamilton Girls’ High School Ward Street, PO BOX 1267, Hamilton 3204 Phone: 07 839 1304 Fax: 07 834 1394 www.hghs.school.nz administration@hghs.school.nz

OPEN DAY 2019 Join us to experience our Home to Excellence. Meet students, explore our beautiful grounds, and experience what it is like to learn and live at a leading school for girls.

Friday 22 March, 2pm - 6pm VENUE: Woodford House, Iona Road Havelock North, Hawke’s Bay DATE:

A SPECIAL CHARACTER BOARDING AND DAY SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

Page 18

CARTAGE & EARTHWORKS

Kaituna River re-diversion progress continues Work to restore estuary health by returning freshwater ﬂows from the Kaituna River into Te Awa o Ngatoroirangi Maketu Estuary is now ahead of schedule.

After re-opening for the summer ﬁshing season, Ford Rd access restrictions have been re-instated from February 8 to allow river re-diversion construction progress to continue. “The ﬁrst sod was turned on June 12 last year. We expected the project to take two years to complete but we’re already

nearly halfway through,” says Bay of Plenty Regional Council coastal catchments manager Pim de Monchy. Bay of Plenty Regional Council is spearheading the project, with a contractor undertaking the work. “We’re grateful for the co-operation and support we’ve received from local residents, tangata whenua, river users, ﬁshers and Western Bay of Plenty District Council to date. “It will mean we can complete the work and get public access, and the health and mauri (life force) of the estuary restored as quickly as possible,” says Pim.

Ford Rd access to the Kaituna River mouth and Maketu Spit is now closed to the public between 7am and 7pm on weekdays and Saturdays until May 27, 2019. The road will be open for public use all day on Sundays. “If people want to enter before 7am and stay at the road-end all day on weekdays or Saturdays, they’re very welcome to. They just won’t be able to leave until the road re-opens at 7pm,” says Pim. Pim says construction of the new replacement stopbank west of Ford Rd is

almost complete, the last row of Ford Rd culverts are being installed, and excavation of the new re-diversion channel is well underway. “There’s still a lot of work to do, and a range of factors including weather and unforeseen ground conditions could impact on ﬁnal timeframes, so the forecast completion date remains set for June 2020. “But if current progress continues we may be able to ﬁnish the work sooner,” says Pim. Project videos, updates and information are available at: www.boprc.govt.nz/kaitunarediversion

Construction of the new channel that will carry fresh water from the Kaituna River into Maketu Estuary is now underway.

Earth-moving on the expressway project Massive earth removal works and cartage of huge amounts of concrete have been happening recently along the under-construction Waikato Expressway. The expressway will provide a four-lane highway, running from the Bombay Hills to south of Cambridge, to reduce travel times between Auckland and Tirau by up to 35 minutes. Several sections of the expressway are now constructed and completion of the whole expressway is targeted for 2020, according to the New Zealand Transport Agency. On the Hamilton section of expressway Puketaha Rd was closed on February 9 with contractors pouring concrete for the deck on the new Puketaha Rd bridge. NZTA estimated 32 trucks were needed to pour the deck on the bridge, which will take the expressway over Puketaha Rd. At the Huntly section of the expressway, NZTA says it hasn’t taken long for the 30,000m3 of earth to be moved since McVie Rd bridge opened in late-December. “McVie Rd runs past the stockcar club and project site office west of Huntly, and goes over the expressway. With traffic on the bridge and a new alignment connecting to it, the construction team this year has excavated so the expressway can pass underneath.” Other project updates include pavements team laying and stabilising rock during the day at the Southern Interchange, then laying asphalt at night. “Asphalt has to be laid at night to ensure there is a consistent supply from the plant, and to avoid delays caused by peak traffic.” The team started near the Tamahere Interchange in January, and is progressively working north. ‘Squawkers’ have replaced reversing ‘beepers’ on construction vehicles to reduce noise, and other measures are in place to minimise effects on

project neighbours. Also, a widened section of Birchwood Lane was sealed just before Christmas – with drainage and ﬁnishing works to driveways continuing. The new East West Link Rd will connect Birchwood Lane with Cherry Lane on the other side of the expressway, providing a new road link in and out of Hamilton. The expressway route is also taking shape either side of the Matangi Rd Bridge. Excavation is largely complete on the northern side, and continues on the southern side, according to NZTA. “Waste material from the excavation is being used to form large embankments along the route that will reduce noise and visual effects from the expressway where it opens for trafﬁc.” And construction of the longest bridge of the project is underway. “The centre columns and piers that will hold up the Mangaonua Gully Bridge are progressing well,” says NZTA. “This bridge – the longest at 150m – is also the only bridge on the project with steel beams. All the others are concrete.”

An estimated 32 trucks were required to pour concrete on the new Puketaha Rd bridge, pictured here back in December 2018. Photo: NZTA.

KIWIFRUIT & AVOCADOS

Page 19

New focus on resolving industry-wide fruit quality issues Avocado export group Avoco is taking a leading role in efforts to resolve industrywide fruit quality issues by creating a new Quality Focus team. The team, led by Avoco director Alistair Young, will prioritise fruit quality next season and investigate every step in the supply chain to ensure New Zealand fruit retains its premium quality status before entering the market. As part of its brief, the team will re-examine fruit handling processes and work with staff across the six packhouses supplying Avoco. Investigation into the use of water-blasters at the packhouse will be a key focus area, both in terms of methods and timing of use, says Avoco’s marketing and communciations manager Steve Trickett. “With industry body cooperation, Avoco will also conduct orchard trials to examine the role alternative fungicides can play in improving fruit quality outcomes, as well as revisiting optimal use of copper sprays.”

Intensified focu

The intensified focus on quality follows a season plagued by rots, wind rub and the consequences of advanced fruit maturity that led to disappointing packouts for growers across the industry. Export volumes fell short of pre-season estimates by about 20 per cent due to the challenging growing season and harvest period. Market returns were also impacted by Western Australian supply being well up on volume forecasts and running much later, adding to the pressures faced by NZ exporters in the Australian market at critical times. Generally inconsistent fruit quality throughout the season meant Avoco invested heavily in repacking in Australia to ensure only the best quality avocados reached retail customers – a significant cost that will impact Orchard Gate Returns when the season’s fina cial performance is analysed in full, says Steve. “Industry body NZ Avocado Ltd has also signalled that overcoming quality issues would be a major focus for the board and its organisation this year.” Steve says Avoco represented the largest share of NZ’s growers and export volume with 63 per cent, which means it would inevitably take a leadership role in efforts to find solutions to issues that have affected the

targeting orchard management practices considered most influential to impro ing quality outcomes. “Growers are the first step in the supply chain, so what they do on-

orchard has a major influence on fruit quality and production. It’s in their best interests to do all they can to work together with their packhouses and Avoco to find solutions.

® Avoco has created a new Quality Focus team in its efforts to reverse frustrating quality issues that affected the whole avocado industry last season. industry for three successive seasons. “We’re very committed to overcoming these challenges that came to a head in 2018-2019. “Our new quality focus team has been quick to respond, drafting Export Marketing Strategy and quality standards submissions on fruit handling processes, industry systems and practices that we believe could be changed to improve fruit quality. “Some of these require further research but we expect no stone should be left unturned if we’re going to successfully restore confidence in our industry to deliver.

NETT VOLUME LITRES:

DISTRIBUTED BY:

contact: info@goodtogrownz.co.nz ph:0273470392 www.goodtogrownz.co.nz

Evaluate shipping

Outside of on-orchard and post-harvest stages of the supply chain, Avoco will also evaluate shipping container carriage temperatures and controlled atmosphere regimes. It is also developing plans to have dedicated quality control personnel working in Australia and supporting Australian fruit handlers should major quality issues re-emerge in 2019-2020. The 2018-2019 export season ended last month, with Avoco handling about 1.9 million trays. Eighty per cent of fruit has been shipped to Australia with the rest distributed under the Avanza brand to Asia, including shipments made to China for the first time, with Avanza representing 85 per cent of total industry volume exported there.Steve says evidence on-orchard suggests next season will produce a larger NZ crop, perhaps more than 30 per cent up on last season. “Avoco will continue to offer technical guidance throughout the season and support growers with advice

Fungi to boost plant health and production Developed and produced in New Zealand for the horticulture industry, MycoGro Hort is an Arbuscular Mycorrhizae Fungi to help boost the rooting area of plants.

Helen Wilson

Avocado root growth with MycoGro Hort treatment applied on left and without on right.

contact: info@goodtogrownz.co.nz ph:0273470392 www.goodtogrownz.c

We’re taking a close look. Why? Because quality matters. AVOCO is taking a close look at every step in our supply chain to improve quality and returns. From the orchard to the packhouse, to shipping and in-market handling. Our fruit needs to arrive to our customers in world-class condition.

We’re all in this together, every step of the way. avoco.co.nz

CC0219

“MycoGro Hort can be used at all stages of plant development such as propagation, transplanting and compost application,” says Richard Bradburn, owner of the distributing company Good to Grow NZ Limited. “Around 80 per cent of the world’s plant species form associations with these types of mycorrhizae. “These beneficial fungi greatly increase the effe tive rooting area of plants thereby enhancing plant growth, vigour, water uptake, nutrient availability, flowering, yields and production,” says Richard Horticultural and ornamental plants including avocadoes, kiwifruit, grapes, pip fruit, stone fruit, nut trees, citrus, lettuce and tomatoes greatly benefit from MycoGro Hort. Plant species that cannot be colonised by arbuscular mycorrhiza include brassicaceae, amaranthaceae, lupinus, caryophyllaceae and cyperaceae. Richard says scientific trials carried out for Myc Gro Hort have shown a 146 per cent increase of root dry matter in avocado trees, 55 per cent in the weight of a fresh lettuce and 24 per cent plant height in pittosporum trees. Propagated in a pumice carrier MycoGro Hort undergoes rigorous QA testing to ensure that it complies with the required minimum production standard. “Because production is domestic and uses New Zealand-sourced mycorrhizal strains, it eliminates the biosecurity risk which can happen with imported products,” says Richard. MycoGro Hort is PVR pending and it is important to follow the instructions on the label before application.

DISTRIBUTED BY:

KIWIFRUIT & AVOCADOS

Page 20

Licensed under the REAA 2008

Boundaries Indicative Only

Boundaries are indicative only

Large Bare Land Opportunity In Cooks Beach

Substantial Avocado Production Block

COOKS BEACH 371 PURANGI ROAD

COOKS BEACH 1047M PURANGI ROAD

This is a fantastic and rare opportunity to purchase a significant landholding in a prime location in Cooks Beach. With Waihi Ash, free draining soil and consisting of just over 24 hectares this property caters to horse lovers, horticulturists or lifestylers. With kiwifruit and avocado orchards scattered throughout this area, it is easy to picture your new orchard in this perfect spot. At 50 ASML and a mix of contours - flats, rolling and some steeper areas at the top of this block, means that there are multiple house sites to choose from. There’s an impressive shed with concrete floor already in place. Create your next dream here.

Avocado orchards of this size and calibre are a rare find, so as far as opportunities go they don’t get much more enticing than this - a 14.8ha (approx.) parcel of land in stunning Flaxmill Bay, Coromandel. Featuring an established avocado orchard with 11 ca/ha (approx.) of Hass trees. Excellent infrastructure with an irrigation system, huge orchard shed, staff accommodation quarters and an extensive list of machinery all included. Full time orchard manager in place that is very keen to stay on. Situated in one of NZ’s finest growing area’s this significant avocado orchard is what everyone asks for - now it’s here. With over 500 bins picked this season, pruning and fertiliser regimes in place - this orchard is set up for the future. Sold +GST if any.

28 March, from 1pm

28 March, from 1pm (unless sold prior)

Durrelle Green M 027 949 3725 E durrelle.green@eves.co.nz Web durrellegreen@eves.co.nz

Durrelle Green

HELD 247 Cameron Road, Tauranga WEB www.eves.co.nz/ektc2044 VIEW Saturday 12.30-1.30pm

M 027 949 3725 E durrelle.green@eves.co.nz Web durrellegreen@eves.co.nz

(unless sold prior)

HELD 247 Cameron Road, Tauranga WEB www.eves.co.nz/ektc2045 VIEW Saturday 2.00-3.00pm

Boundaries Indicative Only

Lifestyle on the Edge of Simpsons Beach WHITIANGA 39 WHAREKAHO ROAD

Moving To The Sunny BOP & Need An Income? 1

This picturesque 30ha grazing block has expansive countryside views as well as hair raising vistas of Wharekaho and Mercury Bay. Zoned rural, the 30ha property borders the future urban zone, this could be the ultimate land bank for future development or is the ideal location for someone who wants this slice of paradise all to themselves. For retiring farmers this would be a great little grazing block whilst you just enjoy the location and lifestyle. The stylish architecturally designed home was strategically built to take advantage of the stunning views. It includes spacious open plan living areas, three generously sized bedrooms including a master with ensuite and walk-in wardrobe and numerous unique features throughout. Sold +GST if any.

KATIKATI 237E BUSBY ROAD Are you are looking for an orchard that you can also build your own home on, yet be super close to Katikati township? Then come and check out this private, rural block well set up with kiwifruit and avocados. The elevated, north facing house site offers plenty of options to build a home on. The established 2.76 ca/ha (approx.) of green kiwifruit offers an instant income with crop to be picked in three months. There are 114 avocado trees at ten years old - just starting to ‘come into their own’. Also a 3ha stand of Lusitanica trees, grazing and a huge shed - all waiting for you! Being sold +GST if any.

28 March, from 1pm

Durrelle Green M 027 949 3725 E durrelle.green@eves.co.nz Web durrellegreen@eves.co.nz

(unless sold prior)

HELD 247 Cameron Road, Tauranga WEB www.eves.co.nz/ektc2046 VIEW Saturday 10.00-11.00am

Durrelle Green M 027 949 3725 E durrelle.green@eves.co.nz Web durrellegreen@eves.co.nz

(unless sold prior)

HELD 247 Cameron Road, Tauranga WEB www.eves.co.nz/ektc2047 VIEW Sunday 11.00am-12.00pm

KIWIFRUIT & AVOCADOS

Page 21

Increase crop-carrying potential with new system Hamilton-based Industrial Tube Manufacturing has revolutionised the way New Zealand kiwifruit growers can increase crop-carrying capacity with its new Tri-Post system. Made from the same material as Ag-Beam, a wellproven steel product that stands up to the demands of modern kiwifruit production, Tri-Post allows growers to add intermediate rows to existing blocks

Mike Posa, with the new Tri-Post system.

Stage set for WAC 2019 Preparations are well underway for the ninth edition of the World Avocado Congress to be hosted in Columbia at the Plaza Mayor Convention Centre in Medellín this September 23-27. Thirty speakers from leading producing countries including Mexico, the US, Australia, Chile, South Africa, Spain, New Zealand, Israel and Colombia, are conﬁrmed to talk on a range of topics. In 2015, when WAC was last held, the value of Colombian avocado exports was US$10.28m, according to Fruitnet. In 2018’s season Columbian avocado exports were on course to reach US$75m, and suggestions are they’ll go above US$100m in 2019. Jorge Enrique Restrepo, executive director of industry association CorpoHass, told Fruitnet the WAC is “a historic opportunity to showcase the Colombian avocado sector to the world”.

with absolute ease and efficiency. “Unlike traditional timber posts, Tri-Post can be installed close to the plant with minimal disruption to the root system due to the innovative in-ground tri-pin system,” says Industrial Tube Manufacturing account manager Mike Posa. “Better still, it is designed to integrate seamlessly with AgBeam – Industrial Tube Manufacturing’s high tensile galvanized steel product.” Mike says there’s no longer any need for heavy post-hole borers and rammers, or back-breaking labour-intensive days. “One rotary hammer drill and a modified socket that fits the pin will have a post installed quickly in mere minutes.” Tri-Post is perfectly suited for organic growers, says Mike. “Where timber post installations require a three-year with-holding period, fruit can be harvested from this steel system immediately.”

Set for market release in mid-March, TriPost is a cost-efﬁcient alternative to the traditional timber post. Each and every steel post is milled to Industrial Tube’s exacting standards of strength, length and dimension. “With no timber knots, leaching or warping worries and the ability to tailor length to suit grower needs, is it any wonder this product has received rave reviews at several test sites?”, says Mike. To watch an installation video, visit: www.industrialtube.co.nz/tri-post Or for sales enquiries, contact Mike Posa directly. Industrial Tube is proud to be 100 per cent NZ-owned and operated.

Page 22

KIWIFRUIT & AVOCADOS

New Zealand bids for World Avocado Congress NZ Avocado chief executive officer Jen Scoular says hosting the 2023 World Avocado Congress in NZ would bring a wealth of avocado expertise to our country. producers in the world and learn first-hand about curNew Zealand Avocado will present a rent and emerging innovation and technology.” bid to host the 2023 World Avocado Tourism NZ has also come forward to support Congress event in New Zealand, when the the bid. “Tourism NZ is fully supportive of the NZ organisation attends the forthcoming WAC Avocado Growers’ Association’s bid to host the WAC in 2023,” says Tourism NZ chief executive Stephen in Columbia this September. England-Hall. “Events like this benefit NZ by bringing together The WAC is held every four years in a different counlocal and international experts whose knowledge and try. If it was hosted in NZ it would take place during experience will help boost the NZ avocado industry four days and bring more than 2000 of the brightest minds in avocados including growers, researchers, mar- while also showcasing our expertise in this sector on the world stage,” says Stephen. keters, tech innovators and investors from around the “The avocado industry employs thousands of New world to our country, says NZ Avocado chief executive Zealanders, providing jobs across the country. The officer Jen Scoular. congress will provide access to global science and “The NZ Avocado industry has experienced real innovation that can be used to further grow the sector, growth with excellent returns resulting in significant benefiting the country and New Zealanders.” new investment into the industry. This is our chance New Zealand is the ninth largest international to showcase the industry and celebrate avocados here avocado exporter globally with more than 4000ha in NZ,” says Jen. “New Zealand has developed an amazing horticulture of avocado trees, primarily in the Bay of Plenty and industry with impressive innovation, and is committed Northland. And the industry is growing, with a vision and strategy in place to quadruple sales to $280m and to offering our global avocado friends what may be a triple productivity by 2023. once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit our The purpose of the WAC is to expand knowledge stunning country.” and is a great opportunity for growers and industry NZ Avocado chair Tony Ponder also says there is professionals to hear about and discuss the changing merit in the opportunity for the industry and for NZ global avocado landscape. If successful, this will be the in seeking the WAC hosting rights. first time NZ has hosted the event. NZ finds out if “It is a terrific opportunity for our own growers to their bid is successful or not, this September. attend a world event, network with some of the largest

KIWIFRUIT & AVOCADOS

What is an avocado cuke? If you’ve looked up into an avocado tree and seen little cucumber-shaped avocados, you have discovered cukes. Cukes – also referred to as cocktail avocados – are seedless avocados that grow in the tree and will hang to full maturity, just like regular pear-shaped avocados. Botanically, there are two main reasons behind the formation of seedless fruit. First is parthenocarpy, where fruit develops without fertilisation such as bananas and some citrus cultivars. Second is stenospermocarpy, where pollination and fertilisation have occurred but the embryo doesn’t form or aborts before the seed is formed – like an avocado cuke. In both cases, the plant must continue sustaining the development of the fruit in the absence of seed formation. Fruit development is controlled by carbohydrates, sugars and phytohormones – such as auxins, gibberellins and cytokinins. In the case of cukes, instead of these resources being supplied by the developing seed, the tree itself or the mesocarp, the ﬂeshy part, of the young fruitlet supplies sufﬁcient hormones for the fruitlet to ‘hold on’ and develop into a seedless fruit instead of falling off, which is what usually occurs. Exactly why cukes form isn’t clear. Surprisingly, there is little research and none very conclusive into the phenomenon of seedless avocados. But most research tends to support the hypothesis that differing levels of carbohydrate reserves are related to the success, failure or partial success – as in the case of cukes – of fruitlet development. Genetics and female sterility are also thought to be a cause – and, in some instances, you may even come across a tree that crops only cukes every year. Some people believe it’s caused by low temperatures, but cukes occur in different regions of the world with very different temperatures over the pollination and fruit set period, which tends to rule that theory out. Certain producers globally have established a market for cukes and ‘cocktail avocados’ can now be found on the shelves of supermarkets and in highend restaurants. Erica Faber is orchard productivity manager at Just Avocados Ltd.

Page 23

Why trade uncertainty worries us Attention has been focused on Brexit and whether the United Kingdom Parliament will be able to do a deal with the European Union. There is also uncertainty around the so-called trade ‘war’ between the US and China. And to top that off, support for the World Trade Organisation is declining. NZ relies on WTO rules and its ‘court’ system to ensure we can export our produce, knowing the country we are sending it to will accept it. If there are problems with this, then the ‘court’ system can be invoked. If the WTO loses support from major participants, it’ll lose the ability to enable smooth trading. The result could be that countries unilaterally decide to change export rules, making it more difficult for our exports to get into the right markets. That will stifle growth and NZ’s financial vitality. More so than most countries, NZ

relies on the ability to trade for economic survival. Selling our agriculture and horticulture products accounts for about 50 per cent of our exports. The growth of horticulture has been reported on by the Horticulture Export Authority in a report released in December, the ‘2018 New Zealand Horticulture Barriers To Our Export Trade’. Published every two years, this report is a comprehensive assessment of NZ’s horticulture trade. The key points are: in the last two years horticulture has grown by 7.6 per cent; progress with Free Trade Agreements since 2012 has reduced tariffs by 12 per cent; the European Union, India, Japan, and South Korea are the countries we pay the highest tariffs to. However, with the Comprehensive

and Progressive Trans Paciﬁc Partnership that came into force on December 30, 2018, tariffs in Japan are eliminated. And the Government is involved in trade negotiations with the European Union, India, and South Korea. Other key points are: The EU remains our largest trading partner, but second place is now China; and there’s been an increase in non-tariff barriers, meaning negotiating access to new markets in particular is taking a long time. The trade tensions, and our reliance on trade, increases the importance of multicountry agreements, such as the CPTPP and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership. Read this column in full at: www.coastandcountrynews.co.nz

WHEN DO YOU WANT TO PICK? At Just Avocados, we are committed to providing a model that allows flexibility around harvest while maximising returns. Talk to us about how we can maximise your orchard’s potential.

Kyra Fielden

John Emett

Grower Services Representative (Bay of Plenty)

Orchard Management and Grower Services

027 257 5028 kyra@justavocados.co.nz

027 476 9087 john@justavocados.co.nz

@justavocados info@justavocados.co.nz www.justavocados.co.nz 07 549 3027

KIWIFRUIT & AVOCADOS

Page 24

Ensuring best practice for BOP growers Growers that employ their own staff – and others operating businesses or working in the kiwifruit industry – can now gain advice on employment relations from a newly-formed co-operative based in Te Puke. Phillippa Wright has formed the new, not-for-profit, community-based co-operative called Pick BOP, to help the local horticulture industry lift its game in terms of employment practices. Phillippa, who has 15 years’ experience working in human resources, health and safety, and quality and compliance packhouse roles, says breaches to workers’ rights and confusion about compliance have the potential to affect horticulture’s reputation and bottom line. “We’ve all heard stories of exploited workers and that’s a bad look for the industry and New Zealand exports,” says Phillippa. “Pick BOP is a recruitment office with a commitment to best practice, offering high quality services specific to the horticulture industry. “International customers are also increasingly looking at a grower’s social responsibility. Making sure staff are well

COSIO INDUSTRIES

trained and safe are just as important for the bottom line as the product quality, so it’s win-win.” Phillippa says the idea is to give co-operative members access to training and support in areas like recruitment, labour laws and Recognised Seasonal Employer management. The co-operative will keep members up-to-date with the latest regulations and specialist knowledge so they can be conﬁdent they are on the right side of the law and are maintaining high standards. “There is a membership fee. Growers email or come in and see me and I then complete an audit with them to ensure they currently have good HR and health and safety practices. “When the audit is complete a recommendation is put forward to the executive committee and they decide if the member is able to join the cooperative,” says Phillippa, who says Pick BOP serves a different role to industry advocacy groups. “What I saw missing was a collaborative solution. We want to make things transparent for members, by not accepting any non-compliant behavior.” Pick BOP opened its doors in Te Puke on January 29 and so far has 10 members.

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Phillippa Wright is behind the new not-for-proﬁt, community-based co-operative called Pick BOP.

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KIWIFRUIT & AVOCADOS

Page 25

King talks to kiwifruit industry pre-harvest Mike King, on-stage at TrustPower Arena, talking candidly to the Bay’s kiwifruit industry about his own mental health struggles. Photo: Jamie Troughton/Dscribe Media.

Two hundred people from the Bay of Plenty’s kiwifruit industry last month heard Mike King share his mental health challenges as well ways to deal with improving their own wellbeing and that of their friends and colleagues. The talk – ahead of the kiwifruit industry’s highworkload harvest and packing of fruit – was organised by the Future Leaders group as a timely reminder that high priority must be placed on people’s wellbeing. Future Leaders chairman Campbell Wood says the idea of the event, sponsored by NZKGI and Zespri, came from the importance of staff wellbeing in an industry that experiences high peaks of workloads during an intense time while harvesting and packing the fruit. “The topic is very real and brings a high risk to the industry, given the susceptibility and how vulnerable we are to factors such as environmental events such as hail, flooding, drought; pressure of resources with the harvest looming and the amount of labour that will be required; biosecurity risks; a standalone country requiring access to international markets; and financial returns. “I only name a few – and many fall into a category of being factors out of our control, putting immense pressure on all of us at different times of the season,” said Cameron, as he introduced Mike to the stage. What followed was an engaging journey where the audience laughed as much as they fell silent as Mike spoke candidly of his mental health journey and what factors influence our wellbeing. The former stand-up comedian-turned mental health campaigner also educated on how we can keep check not only on our own mental health but that of our friends and workmates.

Inner critic

Key topics included explaining how each person has an inner critic at work – like an inner voice delivering destructive thoughts, which can affect every aspect of our lives. “The biggest epidemic in mental health in NZ is an over-active inner critic – being bullied by yourself.”

Mike talked of how we as humans are vulnerable and fear isolation, and so gain self-esteem by approval from others; and how drugs and alcohol are used by people who struggling with their mental wellbeing. He told supervisors in the audience they should stand up at their next team meeting and tell staff of the biggest mistake they’ve made that week. “Speak honestly – talk about your mistakes – because if you put yourself out there as perfect that will feed their inner critic.” “Every time you make a mistake you learn from it and grow from it – and life is about growing.” Mike said 80 per cent of people have recurring thoughts of suicide which grind them down on a daily basis and they never ask for help. “They are concerned about what people will say and their reputation.” Then he asked audience members who were feeling their life was going great to stand, while those feeling not so great to remain seated. And that’s where his biggest message lay. “Life is full of ups and downs and we need to accept this – everyone has crap days.

Give away your ‘extra’

“For those of you sitting down feeling ordinary – know that this moment will pass. For those of you standing up, feeling extraordinary, know that you could the feel same way as the people sitting down in six months’ time. But while you feel extraordinary, give your extra to others,” said Mike, pointing to friends and workmates as being the perfect candidates someone can turn to during a difﬁcult time. Lastly, Mike talked of the grey and white wristbands – with three words on them: ‘I AM HOPE’ – that he gives to NZ schoolkids to encourage them to open up about their struggles. The band signals to anyone in need that the wearer will help them. NZKGI chief executive Nikki Johnson said events such as Mike’s talk are a great reminder that a high priority must be placed on wellbeing for everyone in the kiwifruit industry. “Growers and others working on orchards as well as packhouses, including their families and neighbours, should recognise that there is always support available. “The rural support trust is an excellent contact who provides help and advice for the rural community.” The rural support trust can be contacted on 0800 787 254. Merle Foster

My Name is Neil Woodward. I am a director of Z-Contracting- we are family run business, our team consists of three, being myself, my son and my brother. Our organisation has been established for over 18 years. I have been involved in applying crop protection programmes within the horticultal industry since 1966. We specialise within the kiwi fruit industry, We have the equipment to spray orchards with our two Atom sprayers and one recently purchased Tracatom Formula tractor which is also available for mulching and mowing.

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SHEEP & BEEF

Page 26

Preparing for all Brexit scenarios With Brexit’s March 29 deadline looming, Beef + Lamb New Zealand is working with the NZ Meat Board, the Meat Industry Association, processing companies and the Government to prepare for all scenarios. B+LNZ chairman Andrew Morrison says three main scenarios are in play, which hold potential implications for

NZ’s red meat exports to the UK and EU. “Though it’s worth noting that developments on Brexit are happening all the time and we’re monitoring these closely.” The ﬁrst scenario is UK Prime Minister Theresa May’s deal passes. The proposed deadline for the UK Government to win approval for its deal was February 26 – but this had potential to be moved out. As Coast & Country News went to print it was still unclear if a deal had passed.

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“The UK Parliament has already This would be incredibly rejected an exit deal Prime Minisdamaging for the UK and the EU – and the ter Theresa May negotiated with the EU late last year, but there rest of us as collateral, says Andrew. “It would is still a slight chance it could be be the worst-case situaresurrected if slightly amended. tion for farmers in the Assuming there will be no signifiUK, EU, and NZ. cant changes to details of that draft “In terms of access of withdrawal agreement, this would goods, on March 29, mean status quo for NZ meat 2019, all UK products exports until the end of 2020,” entering the EU would says Andrew. do so based on the EU “Between the passing of a World Trade Organideal and the end of 2020, sation tariff schedule. the UK and the EU would Sheepmeat from the UK be expected to negotiate to the EU would incur and agree on the final terms of the a tariff of around 50 per UK-EU relationship. cent – even up to 70 per “Also during this period, the UK cent for specific cuts. can start formal Free Tarde AgreeThis scenario would be ment negotiations with non-EU hugely disruptive to not counties, including NZ. However, just UK exporters, but any FTA cannot come into force for NZ’s exporters too.” until after the transition period.” The second scenario is delayB+LNZ chariman Andrew Morrison. Our position ing Brexit. The UK Government Andrew says for NZ’s could seek to extend the March 29 red meat sector exports it would mean our sheepmeat deadline with the EU to give it time to try to reach a and high quality beef quotas are split between the better deal, says Andrew. “This could even see the UK withdraw its intention EU and the UK, based on historic trade flows. “This is based on a deal the EU and UK agreed among to leave the EU to effectively ‘stop the clock’ while themselves last year and both parties reconfirmed negotiations continue. This would extend out the recently. For sheepmeat, the split would be broadly Brexit date. Again, this would mean status quo for 50/50, but for high quality beef 35 per cent of our the NZ sheep and beef sector until the EU and UK 1300 tonne quota could go to the UK and 65 per decide on an exit date.” cent could go to the EU. What ‘no deal’ means “Our position, which has been reiterated by our The third scenario is no deal. If the UK and the EU Prime Minister Jacinda Arden during her recent UK are unable to agree on a withdrawal agreement then visit, is we should be no worse off as a result of Brexit. the UK leaves the EU with no deal on March 29. ...continued

SHEEP & BEEF

Page 27

Three main options at play but uncertainty continues continued...

“Both the UK and the EU need to honour their legal obligations and commitments under the WTO. We ﬁrmly stand by our position that splitting of the quota diminishes the ﬂexibility NZ exporters have to responsibly respond to consumer demand and changing market conditions across EU markets. “Should the quota be split, we’ll be encouraging the NZ Government to pursue its legal options through the WTO.” Andrew says the NZ Government has already started this process, lodging a claim of interest at the WTO to defend our existing quota access, “and we welcome their hard work and support”. Plus, NZ and the UK have been taking steps to minimise other potential trade disruptions in a hard Brexit.

Contingency planning

“The recent signing of a Veterinary Agreement between the UK and NZ, together with the advice from the UK it will accept existing EU Health

risks around capacity of the UK to clear products crossing its borders, and there is still the most important issue of the lack of clarity around how our quota rights will be respected.”

Ensuring minimal impact

Andrew says the NZ Meat Board has been undertaking comprehensive contingency planning to ensure that after March 29, 2019 it is prepared for a nodeal scenario and has in place processes to ensure minimal commercial impact and disruption to trade.

“The NZ Meat Board is developing certiﬁcation software and making plans for quota allocation in the event of a ‘no deal’ Brexit. These systems and processes will be fully developed before March 29, so should the worst happen we’re ready to shift to new systems immediately.” Andrew says there’s still a lot of uncertainty. “It is likely there’ll be more clarity in coming weeks, but there is also a very real chance negotiations with the EU and UK will continue until the 11th hour.”

Negotations are being closely watched here in NZ. Certiﬁcates post-March 29, 2019, means our sector is assured some key existing regulations will remain the same for at least 180 days after Brexit. “However, other aspects of the trading relationship with the UK and the EU will still need to be addressed. There are

Call for regulation of stock agents Federated Farmers’ Meat & Wool Council is calling for compulsory regulation of the stock agent industry. “No-one likes more rules and regulation but to protect all parties in the sale of livestock we believe it is the best way forward,” says Federated Farmers’ Meat & Wool chairperson Miles Anderson. “Discussions about this topic have run hot and cold for years. We need some ﬁnality.” The NZ Stock and Station Agents Association has a code of conduct and an independent body that can adjudicate on complaints about the

actions of stock agents. “But with all respect to the association, membership and thus adherence to the code is voluntary and we understand it covers about 65 per cent of all stock transactions. “Less reputable agents – a minority in the industry – are unlikely to become voluntary members and even if they do, when trouble arises they can simply resign and continue to trade.” A fully enforceable and regulated industry would be able to stop agents trading, and potentially be able to impose redress, says Miles. Plus FF members have raised con-

cerns about biosecurity risks, where there is misrepresentation – accidental or deliberate – and limited ability to seek redress in a voluntary system. Another potential regulation upm for debate is requiring a stock agent who trades livestock on their own behalf to do so through an auction system or another agent – not conduct the transaction on their own, says Miles. The council doesn’t envisage an increased cost to farmers from regulation because for most companies and agents there would not be a huge change from how they currently operate.

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Page 28

RURAL BUILDING & FENCING

Whole-building test for quake strength Kiwis can be more conﬁdent new buildings built in New Zealand can stand up to earthquakes of a greater intensity than those that hit Christchurch and Kaikoura, say University of Auckland engineers. This is according to the ﬁndings of researchers from the University of Auckland and Canterbury, in collaboration with QuakeCoRE and Tongji University, China. They built a two-storey concrete building – at 10m by 6m by 8m – put it on one of the largest shake tables in the world, and subjected it to the same seismic demands that could shake NZ. “It’s the most exciting project I’ve completed in my career so far,” says University of Auckland Senior lecturer in civil and environmental engineering, Dr Rick Henry, who led the project.

Shaking tables

Rick says China is one of only a few countries in the world that have shaking tables of this size. “It’s the largest and most complex test I’ve ever done, on a much larger scale than we would ever be able to achieve in NZ.” Generally engineers design buildings

The team conducted around 40 tests, subjecting the building to the forces that characterise the different types of earthquakes that have affected NZ, such as the sudden, intense earthquake generated by the Wellington fault line, or the long-duration subduction earthquake generated by a rupture off the east coast of NZ.

Robust future

The latest testing started at low intensity and gradually Dr Rick Henry and post-doctoral student, Yiqiu Lu, on a precast increased, from the kind of earthquake that might occur concrete building on one of the world’s largest shake tables. every 25 years, to an earthto resist earthquakes based on numerical quake of an intensity that might occur every 2500 years. models and design standards validated Results suggested buildings built according to conby testing individual components of temporary design knowledge in these shaky isles have a buildings such as a wall or a beam. A robust future ahead of them. “The test provided contest of this scale allowed the researchers ﬁrmation that current state-of-art design practice will to evaluate the building as an inteperform exceptionally well in an earthquake,” says Rick. grated whole, a complete system rather “All the details we used were based on existing buildings than parts of a system, with the entire constructed in Wellington and Christchurch and showed structure subjected to real earthquake excellent performance.” ground motions. “Tests of this scale are extremely valuable and the data you can gather from what is a quick test but on a large scale, and what you can learn from it, is huge,” says Rick.

Farm accommodation workshop Those living and working in the Central North Island farming industry can attend a Taupo workshop aimed at educating people about new legislation that effects on-farm accommodation. Organised by the Dairy Women’s Network, the April 17 workshop will cover the Residential Tenancy Act, Healthy Homes Guarantee Act and what your requirements, rights and responsibilities are depending on your role on-farm. The HHG Act has minimum standards for heating, insulation, ventilation, draughtstopping drainage, and control of moisture in residential rental properties, with many rules coming into force this July 2019. The workshop will cover what your rights and responsibilities are as a farm owner, sharemilker, contract milker, or farm employee. There will be discussion to ensure attendees’ employment agreements are fair and reﬂective of the legislation, so you can conﬁdently follow best practice housing guidelines. Anyone who supplies staff accommodation on-farm, or those who live in farm housing supplied by their employer should attend. The Farm Accommodation workshop at Taupo is on April 17, at REAP, 73 Titiraupenga St, Taupo. Register at: www.dwn.co.nz/events

Cladding for NZ conditions house has been re-clad there is no Masada vinyl weatherboards are maintenance. The weatherboards can designed and manufactured in New be washed down with a hose once a Zealand to suit the country’s weather year and will come up as new. conditions. “They are insulated, pest-resistant, The family-owned company has been re-cladding houses for 36 years and the ﬂame retardant and self-extinguishing and come in a range of colours. Most weatherboards installed back then still dwellings can be re-clad in eight days,” look as good as new. Older villas, farmhouses, state houses says Roly. Although lightweight, the cladding and bungalows can experience a wide panels are extremely variety of deterioratough and reliable, tion, including will not crack or leaky homes, fade and come with timber too old a 25-year guaranand dried out tee. so paint will They are a low not stick to it, maintenance, cost weather dameffective solution aged boards and to replacing old mould growing weatherboards upon mould. – and there’s no While the signs d new with need to paint ever an br g of wear and tear kin loo es us Ho again and no need to may vary, the one Masada cladding. water blast. constant you can Based in Tauranga, Roly Bolton and rely on with Masada is their his professional team cover the whole dedication to ﬁnding a solution to of New Zealand and are happy to give any home exterior needs, says Roly advice and a free quote on the approBolton, owner of Masada. priate cladding for any dwelling. “The beauty of Masada is, once the

Before

Page 29

After

FERTILISER

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Robin Boom

CPAg MBSPC

Independent Agronomy & Soil Fertility Consultant

Milk: the vehicle changing lives Coast & Country News columnist Robin Boom, of Agronomic Advisory Services, usually shares his expert advice on fertiliser options for Kiwi farmers.

CUT WASTE, REDUCE COSTS

Here, he shares a recent 10-day adventure with 17 fellow Kiwis to Sri Lanka to look at a dairy project Tearfund and the NZ Government have partnered on to assist peasant farmers to become economically self-sufficient. The project, known as The Dry Zone Smallholder Dairy Expansion Programme, focuses on an area in the north and east of Sri Lanka, which faced devastation from a 25-year long civil war between the Tamil Tigers and Sri Lankan Government, which ended in 2009 and killed around 100,000 civilians and 50,000 fighters. The 2004 tsunami also killed another 30,000 people in the eastern coastal region. Now milk is the vehicle that is changing lives there, says Robin. “The project is a continuation of Tearfund’s empowerment programme in Sri Lanka to help poor smallholder farmers become economically self-sufficient through dairy farming and linking them directly

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to growing national consumer markets. The project initially focused on modernising the traditional dairy activity of poor families in the Northern Province south of Jaffna, but is now expanding the programme during the next three years into 150 communities across nine districts, and establishing a dairy training programme with a training farm geared towards getting youth and young adults into the sector. “Within these communities the goal is to see 7500 farmers supplying about 1.5 million litres of milk per month.

Pristine farm

“The heart behind this project is a group of likeminded workers including Tearfund’s programme ofﬁcers, and NZ companies offering skills like QPOD and Patton, all working with the Sri Lankan country director, Selina, a charismatic local Tamil with boundless energy and drive for seeing change in her community.” Robin says one trip highlight was visiting a widow whose husband was killed by the military at the end of the war and left alone with two children. “With the help of Selina and the dairy project, she was able to regain her

land, about four acres, and was supported into dairy farming. “She now has four cows and runs a pristine farm, with one of her cows producing 20 litres a day – a staggering achievement in the tropics where many cows commonly produce between two-four litres/day. And this standout lady wasted nothing, utilising everything, even recycling cows efﬂuent into biofuel.

Struggling farmer

“By contrast, the following day we visited a young struggling farmer who had hit rock bottom. Without intervention from Selina’s team he would have had no cows left and no income by the end of January. “The good news is that having been identiﬁed, he’ll be trained through the project’s training farm and be supported to get back on track and hopefully will soon be providing for his cows and therefore his family.” Robin says Sri Lankan dairying has many challenges and nothing quite runs like it does in NZ, but there is tremendous potential. “Some farmers have proven just how successful they can be when provided with a little support and a market for their milk.

options

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because the sliding keeps issue everything “We have significantly reduced the roof stock wastage we had dry.” with the old hoop andfertiliser pull on cover system lettingoptions in a lot available of water  Kitset Keep feed or dry Dairy Te Puke becausePeter, the sliding roofFarmer, keeps everything dry.”  Winch system for easy access

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Robin Boom soil testing CO3 grass at Yugashakthi Training Farm, Sri Lanka.

FERTILISER

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Becoming economically self-sufficient in Sri Lanka “I’ve seen considerable resilience and courage in the face of adversity. The team on the ground continue to work hard for peace and reconciliation for their people both Tamil and Sinhala and their passion is contagious. “With my own skills in agronomy and soil fertility I offered to provide some free soil testing and fertiliser advice on a number of properties, which is something new to them. “New for me was soil testing rice paddies, which I did in barefoot as I had no gumboots, and as the temperature was 30 degrees Celsius the mud was warm under my feet.”

milking shed, compared to the peasant farmer’s cows which are generally hand-milked into buckets. “At the Fonterra farm they are trialling tagasaste (tree lucerne) as a protein source. “Most of the group I travelled with have been sponsors of the project and it was good to see how our

donated money has been used to change people’s lives and give them a future,” says Robin, who says Sri Lanka certainly is a beautiful country with massive potential, but with poor infrastructure. To hear more about the project, email: katy@tearfund.org.nz or phone Robin on 027 444 8764.

Main fertiliser

Rice is by far the most common crop grown in Sri Lanka – and the main fertiliser used by Sri Lankan dairy farmers is their own composted cow manure and leaf material. “Whereas rice growers use urea or some other nitrogen-based fertiliser, so it will be interesting to see what their soils lack.” A feed source the dairy farmers in the project are being encouraged to plant is a Napier grass cultivar known as CO3 grass, which is a fast-growing tropical grass that grows up to 3m tall, but is manually harvested when around 2m tall, cut down to about 0.5m. The leaves are then put

Feed time at the Fonterra demonstration farm. through a shredding machine and fed to cows in buckets. “It is high in ﬁbre but low in protein, so one of the challenges is to ﬁnd a high protein source that can handle the Sri Lankan climate,” says Robin. Another highlight for Robin was visiting the demonstration farm Fonterra set up where approximately 30 cows are milked through a proper

Restoring horse pastures back to health, made easy continued paddock presWhen did you last sure can work against go into your horse the health of soil and paddocks, look at pastures, throwing out of the ground beneath kilter the nutrients status their feet and see of soil. more than just dirt? “This will directly affect “Getting familiar horse health and behavwith your piece iour, so it’s important to of dirt makes you restore and manage this – realise when dirt is from the ground up!” transformed to soil Sarah says pH is – a living, breathImproving the nutrients responsible for availing foundation for status of soil can ability of key nutrients. growth – is when you start to positively ultimately positively “Urine and dung deposits impact horse health,” impact on horse health. lower pH and cause sour pastures and poor growth says Sarah Morgan rates. Maintaining a soil pH of from CP Lime Solutions. between 6.0-6.5 is vital.” “With many of us under conOne way to change pH is to straints of grazing space, it’s apply lime, which provides calcium important to understand how

and helps aerate and sweeten sour ground. Magnesium also contributes to more palatable grazing too. “Adding both simultaneously improves photosynthesis and phosphorus uptake. The combination helps soil attract and hold onto moisture and improve compaction. When a soil is well fed and aerated, it supports a thriving microbiology.” To improve soil pH, help moisture retention and encourage even grazing, use Equi-lise. Equi-lise combines lime, magnesium and other key soil nutrients to help balance and alleviate the pressures of conﬁned grazing. In convenient pelletised form, it’s ideal for DIY applications, particularly on small blocks.

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Treat calcium and magnesium in tandem Research on calcium is rare. It’s the opposite for lime, but focussing on one nutrient will never allow the truth about soil fertility to be found.

Calcium depresses magnesium in the soil and this needs to be factored into the beneﬁts for liming. One NZ paper by N. Thomson noticed magnesium increased in the soil but cows still suffered hypomagnesaemia after applications of lime. The supposition

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offered was that increased calcium caused a decrease in magnesium uptake by the pasture. The message is clear. Treat calcium and magnesium in tandem. We work out magnesium requirements before calcium to get the right answers. The pH is the result of the fertiliser programme, not the cause of it. Trying to construct pH does not help. When correct soil balancing takes place, pH will also be correct. We’ll look at properties in common ownership; the difference being one had Mycoplasma bovis while the other did not. M.bovis is one disease. Facial eczema is another. There are many more. The list includes insect pests. If you follow nature’s rules, these maninduced diseases will not occur on your farm.

BS. Potassium is well represented. All three cations contribute to pH. (If pH 6.3 was desired, we are 0.3 above that; magnesium makes up 2.28 of the extra 0.3 pH; calcium only makes up 0.02.) This property is still susceptible to hypomagnesaemia so 900kg/ha of lime can be added (pH will decrease in this case) to allow magnesium to become plant available or let the Mg drift back over time; a riskier strategy. Some cows had been purchased from a M.bovis-infected property. Exhaustive testing during three months occurred on Farm B. No infected cows or M.bovis were found; no anti-bodies were found; no M.bovis -related diseases were found but the Ministry for Primary Industries destroyed the cows regardless.

Farm A

M.bovis

Farm A has an average pH of 5.6. Desired calcium is 4278kg/ha (68 per cent Base Saturation), but the actual readings are 3361 (53.6 per cent BS) being 917kg/ha of elemental calcium short of requirement. Magnesium needed for 12 per cent is 453kg/ha and the farm has 389kg, or 10.3 per cent. Potassium is not well represented. The herd from the farm was slaughtered as the cows were severely affected by M.bovis. The remedy for this farm is 1500kg/ha of Dolomite and 3500kg/ha of highquality lime.

Farm B

Farm B has an average pH of 6.6. Calcium is 3291kg/ha (69.2 per cent) when 3232 is required for 68 per cent BS. Magnesium is overdone with 434kg /ha (15.37 per cent) when 342 is required for 12 per cent

M.bovis was ﬁrst isolated in 1961 from USA feedlots – industrial-type enterprises. By 2012 it had reached Argentina, following feedlots which began around the 1990s. Apparently, M.bovis is naturally occurring in the upper respiratory tract, and can be shed via nasal discharges. It is also in the genital tract of male and female healthy animals and can be spread by intercourse and by frozen semen. Milk can also be infected and can be a source of calf infection. Other animals known to have M.bovis are sheep, goats, rabbits, poultry and farmed Bison where feedlot herds are 17 times more affected than Bison cow-calf operations. M.bovis can also be isolated from humans. Acknowledgements: David Law, Forward Farming. Carlos A. Margineda et.al. Sonali Saha et.al. A Kumar et.al.

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FERTILISER

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Why is pastoral farming receiving such a hard time? Functional Fertiliser Functional Fertiliser

Ultimate test

The ultimate test of whether individual farms are environmentally positive lies with their ability to sequester carbon, and it is under permanently grazed pasture that carbon may be most rapidly sequestered. Whether it’s a one-to-one ratio or not, for every kilogram of dry matter produced there’s dead

Humus

Humus is a term no longer used by the local scientific fraternity and they will have their reasons which in time will become apparent. Humus, as most understand it, is what is left after full biological degradation of organic matter; and as the material from which it is formed naturally varies, it is perhaps not easily defined. Humus in its true form is extremely stable and not easily lost from the soil, even during droughts and extreme wet. It is where nutrient and moisture for plant growth is held, and farmers pay a premium for soils with high levels of humus. In regions dominated by cropping long-term pastoral properties are keenly sought when available, as crop yield in the first three years is always superior; often considerably so. Excellent physical soil structures mean less cultivation is required initially, nutrient inputs are better utilised, and the crops initially require less water and therefore yield, and crop quality is higher. The question is why is it pastoral farming is receiving such a hard time? It may possibly be

justiﬁed on the fact that in general terms all irrigated land is losing carbon, however this is not the case with every farm.

Nitrogen

Ultimately it comes down to the amount and regularity of nitrogen applications. Years ago, when growing peaches, apples and nectarines for sale it was recommended a high concentration urea spray was applied as soon as the trees had lost their leaves in autumn. The reason given was to clean up the trees destroying any old leaf matter lodged in the forks of branches, and it proved highly effective. It does the same to organic matter in the soil, and when the loss of organic matter is greater than the amount gained soils degrade and yield steadily decreases over time. It may take 20 years for that decline to become obvious but long-term growth ﬁgures will show it to be the case. The answer is to provide plants with all their required nitrogen with that ﬁxed naturally by clover. And an increasing number of farmers are joining those that have been successfully

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They’re keen to embrace a more environmentally-focused future even if that means having the inconvenience and extra cost of less plastic, and more time and effort spent recycling household waste. However, the ‘all farming is environmentally negative’ message doesn’t resonate with them, and it’s not about losing the cream for their coffee and replacing meat with alternative protein. It all just sounds a little too simplistic. Even though a signiﬁcant proportion of those aged 45 and younger haven’t spent time on farms and don’t have close contact with practical farmers, replacing all farms with trees just doesn’t sound right to them – with good reason.

root, dung, and old leaf matter being actively broken down with the carbon content being stored in the soil, and in a healthy situation forming humus.

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The adventures 25 of a travelling Irish farmer... 25 years

It would be safe to say that American-born Irishman Aiden Cunningham had a rather nomadic childhood.

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His mother was born in New Jersey, United States, but spent much of her childhood in Donegal, Ireland, before returning to New Jersey aged 16. His father was born on an Irish farm, and immigrated to the US at age 20. Aiden, now aged 28, was born in New Jersey, but from the age of two to six lived a suburban life in Kildare, Ireland. From age six to 18 he lived in New Jersey, and has fond memories of spending summers working on his grandparents 70-cow dairy farm. “At 18 I went back to Galway to study construction, then a sports and exercise certiﬁcate, but I always felt pulled towards agriculture.” While looking for a summer farm job in Ireland, he stumbled upon a farm assistant vacancy in the Waikato in New Zealand. After applying online, and conducting phone interviews with farm owners Pixie and Robin Moss, Aiden, then aged 20, had a job offer. He booked a one-way ﬂight to NZ and had four weeks to earn enough money to pay for it. “I arrived in NZ on the May 17, 2010. Little did Pixie and Robin know they were basically going to end up with another son for a few years,” says Aiden. While living in the Waikato, Aiden looked at doing his AgScience degree at Massey. The university fought a case for him and he paid “a handsome fee” to be an international student there. “There were no Irish there. I became a Kiwi very fast, and I made some very good friends. I spent my study breaks in Parawera, being fed by Pixie and working with Robin.” 8:33 pmAt the end of his degree, the wanderlust hadn’t gone from Aiden yet – he wanted to travel a bit

more before settling and sharemilking in New Zealand. “I looked for graduate jobs in North America and Canada.” Aiden was interviewed in Ashburton, by Jim van der Poel, a stakeholder in Focal Dairies, a pasture-based dairy farming pioneer enterprise in Missouri, US. This completely Kiwi-owned farm in Missouri was to be Aiden’s home for two years. He supervised the farming operation at Kitten Creek Dairy in Harwood, developing and implementing day-to-day management policies. “The farm runs a pasture-based farming model in a climate that is much harsher than NZ.”

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Pasture study brings Aiden back The 1500ha property had 1500 Friesian-cross cows from Kiwi genetics, milked twice-a-day in a 50-unit rotary shed. Milk was picked up once-a-day by a tanker for Dairy Farmers of America. “Land is cheaper in the States, input costs are lower, and dairy prices are higher,” says Aiden. “It was isolated, but a great place to be with a small dairy service industry.” While cows there are pretty robust, the climate had the biggest impact on people and their daily workload. With temperatures dropping into the minus 20 degrees Celsius range and below during a cold, dry winter, keeping the milking shed from freezing was a priority. It was enclosed and diesel-fuelled heaters were left on overnight during the coldest times. And with cows starting to dry off from November, ready for February calving, in such cold temperatures during calving 24-hour checks were made on the paddocks, bringing calves inside as soon as they were born and feeding them high quality colostrum within one hour. And Missouri’s hot, humid summers posed different challenges – the farm has sprinkler systems and fans in sheds. A 1500-cow covered feed pad, shelterbelts and stands of trees are used to keep cows shaded. “If it gets too hot and humid too early in the season, it has a negative effect on breeding, with

Aiden at the lifestyle block of Pixie and Robin Moss, his former New Zealand employers, during his recent visit to New Zealand for the Pasture Summit study tour. Photo: Catherine Fry.

higher empty rates,” say Aiden. “No one in Missouri has been able to mitigate the impact of the heat as to minimise the impact on breeding, with large variations across the region.” The pastures are the French-developed Albion perennial ryegrass, which copes well with hot/dry and hot/humid conditions. In winter it goes dormant – but the almost freeze-dried plant is still nutritious for cows. Plus supplements such as maize, silage, cotton seed and soy bean meal are used. Aiden returned to Ireland in 2016 and has been involved in a dairy conversion project in Kilkenny, project managing the amalgamation of three farms. He has a 10 per cent investment in the 500-cow herd, and some heifers himself, with 117 cows due to calve in the Irish spring. “I’m really aware that at my age and stage in life I should be building wealth to further my dairy farming career. “But lifestyle is also important and coming back to NZ for the recent Pasture Summit Focus Study Tour reminded me of that. “I have some big decisions to make when I get back to Ireland.” Whether it is Ireland, the US, NZ, or somewhere new, this well-travelled, hardworking and enthusiastic young man is sure to make a success of his next venture.

Aiden competing in the Waipa/King Country District NZ Young Farmers Contest while back in NZ last December 2018. Photo: Catherine Fry.

DAIRY

Page 36

Put dairy production system under the microscope Regardless of farm system, sire, location and breed, the basic unit of productivity is the cow, and her feed conversion efficiency, states Sue Macky of Dairy Production Systems. “We do not care what system you operate – that is very much an individual famer choice – but we do care that you do it well, while optimising the welfare of animals, people and environment.” Dairy Production Systems’ clients operate through the whole range, from genuine system one – grass only, no purchased feed or grazing off – right through to five-plus, including certified organic farms, and those once-a-day milking all season. “In all cases sustainable success depends on understanding the cows, how they function and

enquire about DPSL’s what they want. Farm Tutorial Workshops – see “It is not a fluke that the average six-week In-calf their advert for details. Rate across Dairy Production Systems’ client base does reach target with minimal intervention – many exceed 75 per cent. There is a strong correlation between six-week ICR, comparative stocking rate and profitability.” Optimising feed conversion efficiency – where the feed went, and how well it went – is dependent on well managed cows and feed. “This always includes pasture – grazed grass is still the single biggest individual feed across all farm systems. Optimising feed efficiency means less wastage of nutrients.” Sue echoes Dairy Production Systems’ tenet: “Well fed, well managed, happy productive cows make happy profitable farmers”. To find out how top farmers achieve these outcomes

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Franklin best Young Farmers club The Franklin district’s only NZ Young Farmers club has been named best NZ Young Farmers club at the recent AGMARDT NZ Young Farmers Conference. “We’re stoked to have won the award. We’ve been working hard to rebuild the club over the last three years,” says Franklin Young Farmers vice-chair Annaliese Goettler. The club has an active membership of 20 people with a diverse range of careers. Annaliese, who works for a veterinary medicines importer, says you Chelsea Millar, Lisa Kendall, Annaliese don’t have to be a farmer to join. Goettler and Toby Greenhalgh. Franklin Young Farmers was recThe club also organised an industry ognised for its community work and night last October attended by 90 fundraising efforts for local organisapeople. The event raised $1700, with tions. “We run a really fun, interactive event at the Counties Power Pukekohe $850 donated to the Rural Support Trust. The club meets the ﬁrst WednesShow to educate children about food production,” says Annaliese. day of the month at Blondies in Drury.

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DAIRY

Understanding rotation length New Zealand farms have reputations as lush, green properties that grow enough grass to enable cattle to be fed on pasture alone. However, increasing temperatures have reminded farmers they should never take pasture for granted. Indeed, in this day and age, an unprepared farmer will struggle to fully feed his herd on pasture, instead relying heavily on palm kernel and Urea to either supplement the pasture, or boost its growth. A far better option for both the farm and the farmer’s pocket is to learn better pasture management skills – so grass gets the opportunity to grow to its full potential and animal health problems can be averted. A key component of pasture management is getting rotation length right. Rotation length is the time it takes for cattle to go around the farm, grazing a planned area per day, and return to the ﬁrst paddock grazed. Here are some points to consider when establishing a suitable rotation length. Rotation length should be adjusted according to the speed at which grass is growing. For example, at times of the year when growth rate is quick, rotation length should be quicker so the cows can keep up with the grass growing ahead of them.

Residual

from the pre-graze to give the available drymatter – for example, 2800kgDM/ha minus 1500kgdm/ha equals 1300avkgDM/ha. The available dry matter divided by the daily growth rate – for example, 65kgDM/ha per day – gives the ideal rotation length for the growth rate: in this case, a 20-day rotation.

Herd demand

Establish herd demand by taking feed required by cows and multiply by number of cows– for example, 18kgDM/cow x 450 cows = 8100kgDM. Then take the available dry matter of 1300 average kgDM/ha and multiply by the total area available to graze per day – for example, 6ha – to establish allotted feed for the herd per day. The equation: 1300kgDM x 6ha = 7800kgDM. The daily herd demand of 8100kgDM/day, minus the available 7800 kgDM/day, leaves a deﬁcit of 300kgDM. My conclusion here is: to maintain a 20-day rotation at target levels, 6ha of grass and 1.5 bales of silage are required – with one bale being 200kgDM. As pasture growth rate reduces, the rotation length will need to be increased; even in dry periods, the grass still grows. The role of residuals remains incredibly important: if you reduce residuals and graze your farm to the ground, it is important to note the residual will act as a blanket to protect soil drying out. As we move from drought conditions to rain and new grass growth in autumn, pasture management practices are subject to many variables – and a bit of measuring and planning does make life easier.

If cows are leaving more than the planned excess after grazing, called residual, then areas need to be dropped out for silage. If the established rotation length is showing the cows are leaving less than desired residual behind, then the diet needs supplementing with extra feed in the form of silage, hay, crops or meal and the rotation needs lengthening. While growth rate is slow it is pointless to give cows more area, which in turn speeds up the rotation and gives even less • Dairy Shed installations and upgrades time for grass to return to • Service and parts for all types the desired pre-graze level. of milking machines In times of slow growth • Drench pumps, teat spray systems, more supplements can hoses and supplies be fed on a daily basis to • Machine Testing extend the rotation length to match up with the • Effluent and Irrigation Supplies growth rate. • Pumps & Water fittings To establish an ideal – Galvanised, PVC and Alkathene rotation length, you need • Rubberware to do the following. • Stainless Steel manufacture and repair First, establish an ideal • Trenching pre-graze level – for example, 2800 kgDM/ ha. Then establish an ideal residual level – for example, 1500 kgDM/ha. Subtract the residual

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Page 37

TB test provider change AsureQuality Limited is now the sole supplier of TB testing services for cattle and deer nationwide, according to the OSPRI partnership between primary industries and the Government that manages the national TBfree programme. The change took effect from March 1 – and impacts farmers in regions where VetEnt previously provided TB testing services. These regions are: South Waikato, cattle only; Gisborne/Wairoa, cattle only; North ManawatuWanganui, cattle only; Marlborough, deer only; Tasman, deer only; North Canterbury, cattle and deer; and South Canterbury, cattle and deer. OSPRI says the decision secures the future of its TB testing activities and creates efﬁciencies for farmer investment in the TBfree programme. “It follows a recent tender process undertaken by OSPRI.” For information, visit: www.ospri.co.nz

DAIRY

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How Holstein Friesian NZ helps its breeder members

Page 39 Island championships are held at a local show in each island, however due to the Mycoplasma Bovis eradication programme currently underway these have not taken place in the 2018/2019 show season. “We are still unsure of the effect M. Bovis has had on the breed,” says Amelia. “But if there were widespread losses, the effect would be devastating, destroying years of breeding history as well the ﬁnancial impact of losing such highly valued cattle.” More information on the Holstein Friesian breed can be found at: www.nzholstein.org.nz Catherine Fry

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Holstein Friesian NZ field officer Amelia Griffin with a herd of Holstein Friesians.

Holstein Friesian NZ field officer Amelia Griffin, 27, spends two weeks out of three on the road touching base with farmers who breed or milk this historical breed of dairy cow. Holstein Friesians were first brought to New Zealand in 1884. The breed is a blend of the German Holstein and the Dutch Friesian, and its ancestors have been around for 2000 years. With its characteristic black and white markings, the breed is renowned for its high protein and above-average fat content milk, coupled with high production rates and high value calves. It is also bred for beef. “Holstein Friesians are the most dominant breed in New Zealand with each cow producing on average more than 4000 litres of milk per year,” says Amelia. The New Zealand Holstein Friesian Association was started in 1910, as a vehicle for registering pedigree animals and recording bloodline histories and now trades as Holstein Friesian NZ. “We have more than 800 members made up of experienced farmers who have a deep passion for the breed and where we go with it.” The country is split into eight wards, each with a director. The Hamilton base has five permanent staff. In the 2017-2018 season 34,456 pedigree cows were on the association’s register. “Part of my job is to meet with farmers to support and discuss their breeding programmes,” says Amelia. “I also run young breeder’s/youth events and camps to further knowledge of upcoming breeders.” A substantial part of Amelia’s role is classification of “traits other than production” for the association’s pedigree system and sire-proving daughters for the industry. Registered cows must display five white points –

four white feet and a white switch of the tail – and be either black and white, or red and white. The black gene is dominant. Desired traits also include good capacity – wide/deep chests – good udder traits and body traits, and a

good temperament. While NZ has its own Holstein Friesian genetics, breeders also import semen from the US, Canada and Europe to diversify and improve the gene pool. Each year North Island and South

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FORESTRY

Page 40

Cutting barriers and upping incentives for planting Here at Te Uru R˛kau – Forestry New Zealand, we have an opportunity with the Government’s goal to plant one billion trees by 2028, to support individuals and groups across New Zealand to plant more trees and manage land sustainably.

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Planting trees o˜ ers wide beneÿ ts, among them the ability to support Maori to realise the potential of their land, diversify income and improve land productivity, tackle environmental and erosion issues, reduce climate change e˜ ects, improve water quality, create jobs and provide important habitats for a range of native species. Landowners have told us there are a number of barriers that are limiting their approach to tree planting. Te Uru R˛kau’s role is to work in partnership directly with landowners and organisations to reduce those barriers and improve incentives for planting. ˝ e recently-launched One Billion Trees Fund aims to provide a more ˙ exible grants system to help landowners to plant the right tree, in the right place, for the right purpose. We’re focused on integrating trees into existing landscapes so the fund provides more targeted grant rates to encourage a mix of both exotic and native planting. ˝ ere is, however, a target of two-thirds of trees planted being native. ˝ is acknowledges the fact that incentives for landowners to plant commercial trees, particularly radiata pine and Manuka, are already relatively high. By contrast, indigenous tree planting for biodiversity, erosion control and water quality have higher barriers for landowners to overcome. We’ve created a more ˙ exible grants system, which includes the ability to apply for funding year-round. ˝ e minimum planting area needed is 1ha if you are planting a mix of indigenous species. For other species, including planting Manuka and exotic species as well as regeneration projects, you will need at least 5ha. Planting along waterways is eligible for funding and there is additional funding if you’re planting on erosion-prone land or need to fence o˜ an area to

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protect your regeneration project. Your trees may also be eligible for inclusion in the Emissions Trading Scheme. More information on the fund, including eligibility criteria, is at: www.teururakau.govt.nz/1bt ˝ is is about reintegrating trees, both native and exotic species, into our landscapes that create real beneÿ ts for all New Zealanders. Te Uru R˛kau – Forestry New Zealand is responsible for the Government’s One Billion Trees Programme. ˝ e programme aims to increase planting rates to reach at least one billion trees by 2028. Julie Collins is Head of Te Uru R˜kau – Forestry NZ.

FORESTRY

Heat dries forest fuels Nelson, and other parts of New Zealand, are likely to see more wildfire events in future, according to fire and land science experts in the wake of Nelson’s wildfire outbreak last month.

the Americas and Europe in the last few years one wonders about the role of flammable – and often exotic – trees in dry areas. “We ask if this could be an opportunity to include leafier – and less flammable – native spaces in buffer zones for the parts of NZ predicted to dry even further?”

Firefighters work hard to take control of the Nelson bushfire at Redwood Valley Rd. Photo credit: NZDF. Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research research associate Peter Williams says last month was the first time in nearly 40 years he’s seen fire-fighting choppers working both sides of Tasman Bay. “From my kitchen window, I see houses nestled closely amongst eucalypts, pines and gorse. This is not the first time there have been severe fires in this area. But when one thinks of the fires that have devastated parts of Australia,

Scion Rural Fire Research Group fire scientist Grant Pearce says media coverage of the major forest fire at Pigeon Valley, near Nelson, showed what a dramatic and devastating event wildfires can be. In February Grant said Nelson had seen seven days of very high, and eight days of extreme forest fire danger since the start of January, with the recent heatwave being a major contributor to this. “The very hot, dry and windy

weather over the past month has had a major effect on the drying of forest fuels in particular, including slash and prunings, understorey scrub vegetation, pine needle litter and organic material in the soil, which all contribute to the amount of vegetation fuel available to burn. “These dry, elevated fuel loads contribute to easy fire ignition and spread, and to high fire intensities including crown fires that are very difficult, if not impossible to control, especially in steeper terrain often favoured for forestry plantings. “Surrounding grass fuels are also dry, but the lower fuel loads mean that fires are usually easier to control once they spread out into these grass areas.” Grant says modelling of potential future changes in fire danger indicates the number of severe fire weather days is likely to increase in many parts of NZ. “So the Nelson region, as well as other parts of NZ, are likely to see more of these types of wildfire events in future.” NIWA meteorologist Ben Noll says the start to summer from December 2018-January 2019 was the third warmest on record for NZ. “According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change: Heatwaves and fires are virtually certain to increase in intensity and frequency (high confidence). Droughts are very likely to become more frequent and intense (high confidence).” For more details, see the NIWAFENZ Fire Weather website.

Help for hill country erosion in the Waikato Waikato landowners will soon be able to apply for funds hill country erosion management with Waikato Regional Council securing $3.7 million in government funding for the work. WRC applied for funding from the Hill Country Erosion Fund to contribute to landowners’ share of work across the region from 2019-2023. The fund, available to regional councils, totalled $34m for the four-year period. WRC Waipa zone manager Grant Blackie says the money will go towards riparian and reversion work, willow and poplar pole planting, retirement and plantation forestry/Manuka planting in the Lower Waikato, Central, West Coast, Waipa and Coromandel zones. “Once specific details of the use of the funding has been confirmed with MPI council will let farmers in specific catchments know what increased funding would be available for them.” In 2015, WRC got $630,000 from the same fund to help landowners undertake hill country erosion work.

Page 41

Conference on wood industry’s future The wood industry will be central to NZ’s future, low-carbon economy – but how do we get there? That’s the theme of the upcoming Wood Processors & Manufacturers Association of NZ conference next month. Those who go along will hear about how the industry looks to solve the distorted market for logs, what the Government’s inquiry into the domestic log market is ﬁnding, and what urgent corrective action needs to be taken. More topics include: understanding how other major NZ manufacturers

are tackling world markets, ﬁnding out why a strong manufacturing sector is critical to NZ, and identifying what business conditions are needed for growth. The one-day conference on April 4 at Rydges Hotel, Christchurch, will also celebrate the launch of the WPMA’s NZ Wood Design Guides – a large, cross-industry project encouraging the NZ construction industry to make much more use of wood. More information is at: www. eventbrite.co.nz/e/2019-wpma-conference-tickets-55053663991

Page 42

PASTURE RENOVATION & MANAGEMENT

The whole of New Zealand is getting dry. We haven’t had much rain in Bay of Plenty. Possibly 25ml since Christmas Eve. Some farmers will be drying cows off early if this weather continues. So farmers will need to be mindful of pasture renewal – they need to get onto this sooner than later. Identify paddocks that are weedy or got pugged last winter/ spring and deal to them while it’s dry. Get the drainage done and tidy them up. They should be selecting paddocks they’re going to put into crops next season as well. Spraying those and putting them into annuals would be a good idea, to get a bit of extra winter feed off those paddocks; maybe a cut of silage next spring. Especially if you’re dealing with kikuyu or mercer grass, spray it now while its actively growing – if it is at all. Even those varieties may be struggling at the moment. But it’s an opportunity to kill those wild species that aren’t normally active in spring, so get them under control now.

Farmers also need to be mindful about army caterpillar because it’s in these dry spells they seem to come out in force in new grasses and crops etc. So keep a vigilant eye out. Now is also good time to get your feed budgets done early. See what feed you’ve got on hand, what pasture you’ve got and what you need to grow between now and spring. If you can predict shortages it’s best to deal with them now while there’s surplus feed around. Because if it stays dry there will be more demand for feed. We’ve still got a bit of winter grazing available, plus hay and silage, and some maize silage here.

Maize harvest

We’re right into our maize harvest early. We started planting maize earlier this season, with spring being a bit more kinder – that’s brought it on early along with the hotter days. The heat units – from warm nights and hot days – has provided more growing days. We’ve had 32-33 degrees Celsius days – we just don’t get those temperatures. I’ve never seen them before here in the BOP. So farmers need to ensure they’ve got well-prepared stack sites ready because maize could be coming early this year. Have your level stack sites away from drains, power lines etc and in a free-draining area. Long grass attracts rodents. Pukeko can peck holes in stacks so use netting to keep birds out. Have bait stations set to keep rodents at bay. And compact the stack well and cover it well, with tyres touching – put a seal around the base with lime, soil or something. Seal it nice and tight, and pack it nice and tight. And fence it off to keep stock out. It happens just about every year. Use a good quality inoculant – and use a good quality silage cover. Don’t re-use last year’s. We were expecting a cyclone to come down from the tropics but it looks to have missed us, which is probably a blessing in disguise as we don’t need the damaging winds or ﬂooding associated with cyclones. Although, we could all do with a bit of rain to revive the dry spell.

Tropical armyworm catepillars seem to come out in force during dry spells - so keep an eye out.

PASTURE RENOVATION & MANAGEMENT

Page 43

Plaintain research new approach to reducing N loss Game-changing new research into how plantain crops can reduce nitrogen loss from dairy farms will see Upper Manawatu farmers at the forefront of dairy science.

DairyNZ catchment engagement leader Adam Duker.

In the Tararua catchment, dairy farmers are currently faced with reducing N loss from pastures by an average of 60 per cent, to meet the council’s One Plan targets. To achieve those, farmers are adopting a range of on-farm changes – and the region’s new plantain research could be a key component. The TaraPlantain has been proven rua to reduce nitrogen loss. Plan-

tain Project, which recently secured funding from the Sustainable Farming Fund, is a new approach by DairyNZ to reduce farm N loss via a combination of plantain and good management practice. “Plantain provides us with an excellent low-cost opportunity to meet this challenge,” says DairyNZ catchment engagement leader Adam Duker. “It can be used as a pasture mix for dairy cattle feed, but its properties have also been proven to reduce N loss. “Farmers in the catchment have already been making on-farm changes to reduce nutrients and sediment impacting the Manawatu River. The river water quality is improving as a result and, by adopting plantain as a fodder crop, we expect to see further improvements over time.” The project has paddockscale research on six farms where plantain crops are expected to reduce N from cow urine. Plantain roots also lock more nitrate into soil,

New tools to assess and increase pasture profit Two new DairyNZ online tools can help farmers find out if they’re growing and utilising as much homegrown feed as high-performing operations in their area. DairyNZ has launched the levy-funded online resources: the Pasture and Crop Eaten Calculator and the Pasture Potential Tool. The resources will help farmers calculate pasture and crop eaten and assess how they compare to neighbouring farmers in terms of growing and utilising homegrown feed – pasture and crops. Determining your performance gap is a starting point for assessing whether you can make more money from pasture, according to DairyNZ. Do you know your pasture eaten figure? Pasture eaten is a key performance indicator for successful dairy farm businesses. It’s a measure of how much pasture and crop grown on the milking platform is being eaten by cows. This is measured in tonnes of dry matter per hectare (t DM/ha). The Pasture and Crop Eaten Calculator calculates

pasture eaten figures based on the energy it takes to drive your farm – for example, cow maintenance and milk production – and deducts feed brought on-farm or any feed consumed by cows grazed off. The remaining feed is the quantity of pasture and crop eaten. Knowing ‘pasture eaten’ figures allows farmers to assess current farm performance against its potential. To assess an operation’s pasture potential, the online Pasture Potential Tool allows farmers to create a regionally relevant ‘benchmark’ for their farm and compare their ‘pasture eaten’ with similar farms – from soil type, elevation, nitrogen use – in their area. The tool provides a graph of the distribution of pasture and crop eaten within a 20km, 40km and 60km radius from the chosen location, using DairyBase data. “It defines your pasture potential as the level that only one out of 10 farmers beat. The ‘gap’ is the difference between your current figure and the top-performing result.”To find out more, visit: www.dairynz. co.nz/pasture-management (Source: DairyNZ).

preventing run-off into waterways. “The project is farmer-led and focuses on tangible, practical solutions to the environmental challenge by testing the feasibility of plantain at the farm and catchment scale. “We’d like to see plantain as a staple part of the dairy cow’s diet in this area by 2025,” says Adam. “It’ll allow our farmers to maintain similar levels of milk production; we hope the project will demonstrate how to keep their businesses proﬁtable,

reduce environmental impact and minimise the effect on the community.” DairyNZ is working with Horizons Regional Council, Massey University, agronomists and a six-strong project team on the Tararua Plantain Project, which began this season and will run for seven years. The project aims to achieve plantain use on 125 dairy farms to increase farm business and community resilience, and quantiﬁed gains in water quality. Find out more, at: www.dairynz.co.nz/tararua

Page 44

COUNTRY LIVING

The features of tumeric as an anti-inflammatory compound It’s difﬁcult to think of any chronic disease that isn’t either caused or worsened by inﬂammation.

So let’s look more closely at the inflammatory process and how diet and supplements can help create normal inflammatory balance. The purpose of inflammation is to help

ric Turme C P O h wit

restore tissue affected by infection, trauma or disease. Think of this like a playground see-saw. On one end we have forces that cause inflammation; on the other is forces that reduce it. When this delicate balance goes wrong it can lead to chronic inflammation that will worsen existing problems and cause new problems. All inflammation comes directly or indirectly from our immune system. Our white blood cells govern inflammation. This process is directly related to diet and in particular fats and a vast arrange of biologically active antioxidants. The chemistry of all this is very complex but there are some simple facts. Fats in our diet have huge influence over inflammation. Omega 6 oils and some animal fats tend to push our bodies towards inflammation. Omega 3 and some other plant oils tend to have

anti-inflammatory benefits. Two of the most biologically active antiinflammatory compounds are curcumin from turmeric, and oligomeric proanthocyanidins – known as OPC – from grape seed extract. These firstly help block an unwanted inflammatory response then help produce anti-inflammatory effect on inflamed tissue. Combining these two potent extracts can calm stressed tissue and bring much-wanted relief. Recently, I spoke with someone who’d been affected by long-term inflammation in his spine. Adding high doses of curcumin and OPC resulted in his back being much more comfortable. As a bonus his swollen fingers are much better. Feel free to contact me if you have questions.

John Arts (B.Soc.Sci, Dip Tch, Adv.Dip.Nut. Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on 0800 423559 or email: john@abundant.co.nz Join his newsletter at: www.abundant.co.nz

Organic standard to be drafted into Bill

Abundant Health

A national standard for organic production will be progressed as a Government bill this year, according to Agriculture and Food Safety Minister Damien O’Connor. “A national standard gives consumers conﬁdence in organic claims and businesses certainty to invest and innovate in the growing sector,” says Damien. “It’ll also help grow our organic export trade as it brings us in line with international approaches to regulation. We’re one of only two of the top 25 organic markets in

the world that have voluntary instead of mandatory standards. “The global demand for organic products is increasing and our organic sector has responded with growth of 30 per cent during the last couple of years, and is now worth about $600 million a year. “A majority of public submissions earlier this year supported the Government’s approach of a single set of rules for organic production. “I’m pleased we can now move ahead with the changes so our agribusinesses can extract more

value from what they do as soon as possible,” says Damien. Green Party primary industries spokesperson Gareth Hughes says organics is key to sustainable land use “and helps reinforce NZ’s reputation as a trusted producer of high-value natural products has long-supported the growth of the organics sector”. This year a draft organics bill will be introduced to Parliament, with opportunities for the public and sector to give feedback at Select Committee stage.

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COUNTRY LIVING

Growing a market garden In 2017, Eddie and Kylie Robinson and their children moved to a 90ha dairy farm for a live-in farm manager job, with the proviso they could lease half an acre of the farm to start a market garden venture of their own. Ex-chef Eddie, 41, and Kylie, 36, a full-time mum to Kalani, 2, and Havana, 1, had a dream to expand growing their own veggies into a business to provide fresh produce for their community. Friends of the couple, Justin and Vinnie Gold, joined them as business partners. The ﬂat area of bare paddock was covered in tarps for a couple of months to kill the grass without the need for chemicals. “The land was then turned over with a big rotary hoe, and we trucked in 30m3 of organic compost,” says Kylie. Beds were formed and an extensive irrigation system was implemented. Two 20m by 5m polytunnels were erected and a 40-foot container was brought in to use as a washing and packing shed. Although not certiﬁed as organic, the couple will not be using chemical products in the soil or on the crops, and their packaging is environmentally-

friendly. “We will just top up the beds with organic compost as we need to,” says Eddie. After some issues with flea beetle and slugs, they are trialling fine micron netting which should cut out the majority of pests. Growing quick turnover crops also makes it harder for pest habitats to establish, and makes better sense financially, says Eddie. “We’ve figured out a lot on the fly and are always trying to improve how we do things. We’re really trying to focus on seasonal growing so everything tastes as it should!” The Raglan community has quickly backed the venture, with local cafes The Shack, Wallis Bistro and The Wharf, and The Herbal Dispensary stocking the seasonally-grown produce. “People like knowing where their food comes from and there is a huge following of organic practices,” says Kylie. “We’re always happy to have people visit the garden as we believe it’s about growing good relationships not just good produce.” The business requires around 40 man hours a week, with Eddie doing early shifts before his farm work, and Kylie taking the late shift when the children are asleep. “It’s hard work but we believe it will all pay off in the end,” says Kylie.

Above: Kylie Robinson and son Kalani, 2, checking the seed trays in the container shed. All photos: Catherine Fry.

Right: The Soul Food farm kids: Olly Gold, 13 and Rafe Gold, 7, with Kalani Robinson, 2, and Havana Robinson, 1.

Catherine Fry

inson, 2, Kalani Rob er Eddie th helps his fa water the Robinson to in one of s microgreen nnels. the polytu

FFER OUR CUSTOMERS MORE CHOICE IN QUALITY MOWERS & MOWING SYSTEMS

FAMILY OWNED & RUN SINCE 1981

Page 45

Page 46

COUNTRY LIVING

Chemical disposal clarity A nationwide guide on how to safely dispose of unwanted household chemicals, from cleaning products to weed-killers, has been compiled by Consumer NZ.

Consumer NZ recently surveyed its members about the most common chemicals in their homes and if they knew how to dispose of these substances. “From more than 3000 responses, we identified four prevalent but problematic product categories: herbicides, pesticides, solvents and varnishes/wood polishes,” says Consumer NZ chief executive Sue Chetwin. “We then surveyed all 67 city and district councils to find if they accepted these substances. “Our survey found two-thirds accepted unwanted hazardous chemicals year-round at landfill, a waste transfer station or a recycle centre. “Another three offered regular collection events. But 18 didn’t give residents any way to dispose of these chemicals,” says Sue. “Councils could also do a better job of providing online information for residents needing to dispose of hazardous chemicals. “Unless you know what you’re looking for, this information can be really hard to find on many local government websites. We hope our guide will make it easier

Unwanted chemicals are in cupboards and sheds across NZ, says EPA.

for people to dispose of these products safely.” Sue says toxic, corrosive, ﬂammable and explosive products – known as hazardous substances – carry warnings not to throw them out with general rubbish “but don’t tell you what to do with them instead”. “These substances shouldn’t be put in the general rubbish collection as they can cause serious harm to human health or the environment.” Consumer NZ’s online guide lets consumers select their council and view details about its collection policies and drop-off fees at: www.consumer.org.nz/articles/ hazardous-waste-a-guide-todisposal#article-your-councils-

disposal-options Consumer NZ’s research and the guide was funded by the Environmental Protection Authority. EPA chief executive Dr Allan Freeth says Kiwis have been asking his organisation how they should dispose of old and unwanted home and garden chemicals. “It’s among the most commonly-asked questions from visitors to our Safer Homes regional events. “Almost everyone has unwanted or leftover chemicals in sheds and garages across NZ. Left to accumulate they can pose a risk to children, pets and the environment if they’re not disposed of safely.” For more helpful tips, search ‘EPA Safer Homes’ on Facebook.

Tips to keep chickens cool during summer Just like other animals, chickens feel the heat too. The simplest and cheapest thing to help chickens cool down and make summer more comfortable is a few handfuls of ice in their water, says Chris Brook, who with husband Allan runs The Chookyard NZ, stocking all poultry needs and feeds at their Franklin shop. “Nothing is better than having the coop out of direct sunlight and using natural shade of trees in a run.” A shade cloth or sail, a patio umbrella, or a pallet against the side of a shed, are also beneﬁcial.

“Open the coop to allow it to ventilate – even just a few hours before bedtime is better than not at all.” Frozen food provides a refreshing and behaviour-enriching task. “Freeze kitchen scraps, buy cheap and seasonal food such as watermelon and cut into chunks and freeze. Snap corn cobs in half and freeze. “Seasonal fruit and veges make a great iceblock treat. Half-ﬁll petfood containers with fruit or veges and top up to three-quarters with water.” Make a ‘chicken muesli’ by moistening pellet feed with water and adding pumpkin, sunﬂower seeds, strawberries and mealworms – then freeze in ice cube trays. Or chill in the fridge.” A sprinkler in the run cools the ground and provides a damp area to scratch around in. Small clam shell pools are also usable – but ensure water is only a few inches deep to avoid accidental drowning. Share your tips on ‘The Chookyard Ltd’ Facebook page.

COUNTRY LIVING

Page 47

Our love affair with these magnificent animals to arrive by March 18. The winner of the January Country Funnies caption is Christine Eagle of Rotowaro for her caption: “I’m not a

feather duster! I’m the gardener!” She wins a copy of the book ‘The Eczema Detox’, written by nutritionist Karen Fischer.

O U NT R

N NIE

They also have an ability to touch our souls and connect with our hearts in a way that few other animals can. ‘Spirit: A book of happiness for horse lovers’, published by Exisle Publishing, is a compendium of enduring quotes that capture the essence of our affection for these magniﬁcent animals. From a little girl’s ﬁrst pony to a gnarled cowboy’s last quarter horse, they can offer us some of our deepest friendships and inspire us to be the best version of ourselves. Accompanied by memorable ‘Spirit’ is the boo quotes and for March k prize beautiful .

photography, and presented in a high-quality gift format, this is a collection of quotes to treasure. Author Anouska Jones is a book editor, publisher, reviewer and author, who has worked in publishing

Horses are the epitome of grace, power, and freedom.

for more than twenty years. She and her family live on a rural property with three horses, two dogs, one budgie and ﬁve chickens. Thanks to Exisle Publishing, Coast & Country News has a copy of ‘Spirit’ by Anouska Jones to give away. To be in to win, email captions for the photo above and send with your name and address with Country Funnies as the subject line to merle@sunmedia.co.nz Or put these details on the back of an envelope and post to Country Funnies, PO Box 240, Tauranga 3140

Kingfish, snapper and spectacular sunsets Summer fishing is in full swing. The sea has settled down nicely, allowing us to target the good fishing spots in a variety of depths. Mayor Island fishing is always varied with lots of different species coming on board including some good sized snapper, porae and trevally. Kingfish are making an appearance too with some anglers catching their first ever and others their personal best. Some days the fishing has been really slow during the day, when patience and perseverance has been a virtue. The evening change of light fishing has come up with the goods. Lots of small snapper have been caught during the day with the size improving into the evening. Spectacular sunsets have added to the ambience and the experience. Trolling lures between fishing Alfred Kassid caught a beaut spots and on of a kingfish. the way out to Mayor Island often provides good entertainment with some skipjack tuna to haul in. There have been plenty of work-ups with some good sized fish providing the action. During the holidays we’ve had lots of families out on

the boat. It’s great to see the kids experiencing being on a boat and catching their first fish. Their excitement is palpable. Producing a good feed of delicious fresh fish to take home for dinner is memorable along with the whole family bonding experience. There have been quite a few company work outings, which have provided plenty of laughs and good comradery whilst relaxing and fishing. A barbecue lunch including fresh fish, plenty of marine activity with dolphins, whales and sharks making an appearance and some of the best scenery NZ has to offer, completes the picture.

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EFFLUENT & IRRIGATION

Page 48

Two big names in rural infrastructure become one Well-known local precast concrete farm product and infrastructure supplier Presco Environmental Infrastructure has been purchased by Taranaki Precast Concrete Limited. Key account manager Wayne Brown says Presco’s range of products and skilled staff are still on offer – but are now located at TPC Ltd’s Hawera base. “One of the keys to any good business are its people – so the entire sales

and production team from Presco have moved with the business to TPC Ltd,” says Wayne. Based in Hawera, TPC Ltd offer products and services throughout Taranaki, Waikato, Manawatu and Wairarapa and often further aﬁeld. “Our range of products includes water troughs, feed pads, feed troughs, weeping walls, construction panels, solids bunkers, concrete risers, feed bunkers, sand traps, fertiliser bunkers, septic tanks – and now the highlypopular Prosump efﬂuent tanks.”

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Wayne says the Prosump is a state-of-the-art, fully engineered effluent storage system. “Manufactured in 40mpa concrete with special additives to ensure it is watertight and resistant to attack from the chemicals in the effluent, it is literally bullet-proof. “It’s designed to last a lifetime with every install having a foundation specifically engineered to the geology of its site, it is earthquake-resistant to very severe seismic ratings.”

TPC Ltd delivers and places, or delivers and installs, all of their products. “We also offer advice and effluent plans. Presco staff are trained to provide skilled advice to dairy effluent certification standard and can provide accredited effluent plans in conjunction with our industry partners.” “And as new owners, we bring additional depth and experience in the agricultural sector and existing relationships with key industry players.”

Taranaki Precast Concrete Limited and Presco Environmental Infrastructure are now located at TPC Ltd’s Hawera base.

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With over 1,000 hours spent on research and development, the Prosump is not only impressive to look at, it is the most reliable and With over 1,000 hours spent on research and development, the Prosump is not only impressive to look at, it is the most reliable and With overeffluent 1,000 hours spent on research and development, only impressive to efficient, look at, itsignificantly is the most reliable and efficient storage solution in today’s market. With the Prosump new roof isit not becomes even more decreasing efficient effluent storage solution in today’s market. With the new roof it becomes even more efficient, significantly decreasing efficient effluent storage solution in today’s market. With the new roof it becomes even more efficient, significantly decreasing your storage needs and saving you storing and pumping rainwater. With 1,000 hoursand spent on research andand development, the Prosump is not only impressive to look at, it is the most reliable and yourover storage needs saving you storing pumping rainwater. your storage needs and saving you storing and pumping rainwater. efficient effluent storage solution in today’s market. With the new roof it becomes even more efficient, significantly decreasing

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EFFLUENT & IRRIGATION

Page 49

Agricultural greenhouse gas research alive and well in NZ A review of a greenhouse gas research centre, set up to target solutions for our agriculture and horticulture emissions, has found New Zealand to be a world leader in reducing methane emissions from livestock. The New Zealand Agricultural Greenhouse Gas Research Centre was set up in 2010 to play a key role in encouraging agriculture and horticulture sectors to contribute to NZ’s emissions reduction targets. Launched in 2010, the NZAGRC is a partnership between leading NZ agricultural greenhouse gas research providers and the Pastoral Greenhouse Gas Research Consortium. Funded through the Primary Growth Partnership, it also actively supports other bodies such as the Global Research Alliance on agricultural greenhouse gases. NZAGRC director Dr Harry Clark says the aim of the independent review was to determine if the NZAGRC has delivered as intended and assess its progress to date. “The review found NZ is a world leader in all ﬁelds of agricultural greenhouse gas research and strongly endorsed the research programme’s performance to date. “New Zealand is a small country, but we punch above our weight in climate change-related agricultural research.

Scholarship Fund. Harry says the NZAGRC has a strong history of capability development, particularly in supporting young researchers into permanent positions. “Effort has also gone into identifying capability or expertise gaps that could be critical for NZ in future, such as soil science and modelling.”

Harrys says the review also made recommendations including increasing the pace and breadth of the NZAGRC’s research, developing wider partnerships, seeking further relevant stakeholder input, and focusing on science extension and commercialisation. Ministry for Primary Industries manager sustainable resources Neil Williams says the NZAGRC has

made fantastic progress. “The opportunity and challenge now is to ensure we continue to support NZ’s scientiﬁc excellence and leadership while putting our research into practice. “We continue to strive towards offering NZ farmers practical, cost-effective solutions to reduce their on-farm greenhouse gas emissions.” SEE DEMO VIDEO ONLINE

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NZAGRC director Dr Harry Clark. The reviewers noted the high quality research and international recognition enabled by the NZAGRC through showcasing its scientiﬁc activities and capability internationally.” The NZAGRC is investing almost $49 million during 10 years into NZ agricultural greenhouse gas emissions research. The centre’s research mainly focuses on ruminant methane, nitrous oxide, soil carbon, and integrated farm systems. But it also aims to improve coordination of greenhouse gas research, build NZ’s research capacity by supporting students, early career scientists, technicians and senior scientists; and support summer school, Masters and PhD students in NZ universities through its Student

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FARM VEHICLES, MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

Page 50

Circus opening for Power Farming Morrinsville

The re-branding of Maber Motors Ltd Morrinsville to Power Farming Morrinsville, and the opening of their new retail store, complete with an 18-bay workshop, was a memorable celebration on January 31. Director Geoff Maber, his son, marketing director Brett Maber, along with new joint-venture partner and director Richard Clarke treated around 500 invited guests to an evening of Circus Extravaganza entertainment and the opportunity to check out the new premises.

Above: Power Farming Morrinsville joint venture partner Richard Clarke with a Merlo Telehandler Turbo Farmer 42.7. Above: Power Farming managing director and owner Geoff Maber with a Deutz-Fahr 9340.

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Richard Clarke, Matamata-Piako District Mayor Jan Barnes and Geoff Maber cut the ribbon of the new Power Farming Morrinsville premises.

Left: Performers from Zirka Circus entertain the crowd.

Below: American fastfood was served from colourful stands.

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1025R • • • • • •

EX DEMO UNIT 23 HP 4 Cyl-Diesel engine 454kg cargo capacity Max speed 40km fwd CVT Transmission

00 9 , $19 +GST

3038R 1 ONLY!

1 ONLY!

• EX DEMO UNIT • CAB TRACTOR • 37 HP • 3-Cyl diesel engine • Twin touch foot controls 00 • 2-range hydro9 , transmission 33 GST

EX DEMO UNIT TRACTOR+LOADER+BACKHOE 24 HP 3-Cyl Diesel engine Twin touch foot controls 0 4WD, powersteer 90

PLUS, RECEIVE A FREE GREASE GUN AND FIRE EXTINGUISHER WORTH OVER $200^

1 ONLY!

4, GST 2 $ +

% P.A

JOHN DEERE FINANCE RATE*

LIMITED STOCK. CONTACT US FOR MORE UNMISSABLE DEALS!

*Prices shown in New Zealand dollars excluding GST. Whilst stocks last. ^Free fire extinguisher and grease gun applies only to the 3038R and 1025R. *Conditions apply. Finance through John Deere Financial Ltd. Approved commercial applicants only. Offer is based on a 12 month term at an annual percentage rate of 0% with 30% deposit and GST back within first 3 months, applicable to advertised stock only. Images used are for illustrative purposes only and may show features or attachments not included in the price. Products, specifications and availability are subject to change without notice.

0800 tractor • www.agrowquip.co.nz PUKEKOHE 09 237 0043 • Comrie Pl

SILVERDALE 09 427 9137 • 17 Flexman Pl

HAMILTON 07 847 0425 • 8 Kells Pl

CAMBRIDGE 07 827 5184 • 169 SH 1B

FARM VEHICLES, MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

POWER UP

GRASSFARMER

GENERATION 3000 SERIES • Ability to sow accurately from 1kg up to 350kg of seed per hectare • Aitchison seeding mechanism provides effortless access for cleaning after use • Disc Coulter as standard on tine version

AN D LOA

• 105Hp 4499cc Perkins liquid cooled 4 cylinder diesel engine with dual air cleaners • 32x32 synchro mesh, power shuttle, push button hand clutch with 4WD • Hydraulic power steering • 79.2 l/min hydraulic flow • 2,400kg rear lift capacity • 4 rear remote outlets • Wet disc brakes

FROM 1/3RD DEPOSIT

24,660

REST**

INTE

THEN 1/3RD IN 12 AND 24** MONTHS AT 0% INTEREST

4 YEAR

POWER

TRAIN WARRANTY

105Hp

R AND L CTO

4 IN

BUCKE1 T

TRA

+GST

INTE

AN D LOA

REST**

4 IN

BUCKE1 T

PX1052 P/S Loader Combo

80Hp

TRAIN WARRANTY

ER OAD

BUCKET

THEN 1/3RD IN 12 AND 24** MONTHS AT 0% INTEREST

TRAIN WARRANTY

4 IN 1

POWER

R AND L CTO

SLASHER

4 YEAR

TRA

FREE

TRAC

17,660

POWER

R AND L CTO

TRAC

4 YEAR

ER OAD

FROM 1/3RD DEPOSIT

†

EXTENDED

RX8030 Loader Combo • 80Hp 2435cc Daedong liquid cooled 4 cylinder diesel engine • 24x24 transmission with wet clutch & power shuttle • 72.8 l/min total hydraulic flow • 2,256Kg rear lift capacity • Hydraulic power steering • Wet discs • High quality fully adjustable seat • Flat operator deck

FROM $392/MONTH OR $98/WEEK

†

34,980

TRA

FROM $303/MONTH OR $76/WEEK

+GST

26,980

• 48-58Hp max, 2,435cc Daedong liquid cooled 4 cylinder diesel engine • 45 litre fuel tank capacity • 4WD with manual transmission OR 3 range hydrostatic transmission (HST) • 55.1 l/min flow pump capacity

TRA

DK SERIES FROM

48-58Hp

ER OAD

AN D LOA

CK SERIES FROM

DK SERIES Loader Combo

30-42Hp

TRAC

4 IN

BUCKE1 T

TRAIN WARRANTY

TRAC

POWER

R AND L CTO

ER OAD

4 YEAR

• 30-42Hp max, from 1,393cc to 1,829cc Daedong liquid cooled 3 cyl diesel engine • 4WD with 6x2 manual transmission OR 2-3 range hydrostatic transmission (HST) • 42.9-44.4 l/min flow pump capacity

THIS SUMMER

+GST

CK SERIES Loader Combo

+GST

Page 52

AN D LOA

MULCHERS • • • • • •

High rotor speeds / low vibration 20-300 horsepower Long life bearings 1m - 6.2m working widths Toothed transmission drive belts Counter blades for producing finer mulching of coarse materials

TRAILED BIG EASY BALE FEEDER

• • • •

Heavier 5 tonne conveyor chain Two bale capacity/2 tonne Left & right hand feeding Self loading & easy to use

TIGRE MULCHER

2.3m to 3m working width • Multi-purpose mulcher for grass & pruning up to 12cm • Notched double counter-blades • Shows optional raker tInes

3 POINT LINKAGE BALE FEEDER

• Revolutionary in its self loading compact design • Transport two bales at once • Tough, low maintenance and dependable

FA844CC

PUKEKOHE Power Farming Auckland ............ 09 239 1200 MORRINSVILLE Power Farming Morrinsville .. 07 889 5059 TE AWAMUTU Power Farming Te Awamutu ... 07 870 2411

maschiogaspardo.co.nz

TAURANGA Capital Tractors & Machinery ....... 07 543 0021 WHAKATANE Jacks Machinery ..................... 07 308 7299 ROTORUA Truck & Tractor Services ................ 07 349 6528

maschiogaspardonz GISBORNE Power Farming Gisborne .............. 06 868 8908

www.powerfarming.co.nz

powerfarmingnz

Advertised imagery may differ from product. Contact your local dealer for further details. Normal lending criteria and conditions apply. *Free slasher only available for a limited time and while stocks last. ** Terms and conditions apply, contact your local dealership.

www.powerfarming.co.nz

powerfarmingnz

FARM VEHICLES, MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

Page 53

Bridging the gap between ag and tech A number of international guest speakers and technologies will descend on Rotorua for the MobileTECH 2019 agritech event in April. “MobileTECH is one of New Zealand’s largest annual agritech events and we are looking forward to showcasing a wide range of world-class digital technologies for our food and fibre sectors,” says programme manager Ken Wilson. “Artificial intelligence, machine learning, smart data and other automation technologies are starting to make a big impact on productivity for early-adopters throughout our agricultural, horticultural and forestry sectors.” With more than 30 speakers set for MobileTECH 2019, close to half are flying into NZ to take part in the programme. Keynote speaker, Sarah Nolet, CEO of Australian-based Agthentic, is a global trailblazer on adoption of agri technologies and how innovators and growers can succeed

MobileTECH showcases a wide range of world-class digital technologies for our food and fiber sectors. together. Sarah is really looking forward to speaking at MobileTECH 2019 “about how we can continue to bridge the gap between ag and tech, as well as enable more collaborations between Australia and NZ”. Netherlands-based artificial intelligence for ag leader, Yasir Khokhar, CEO of Connecterra, has been making waves internationally in recent years. His mission has been to “build an artificial intelligence that will grow food sustainably to feed future generations”.

While Connecterra has released an awardwinning intelligent cow-monitoring system, Yasir says his company’s drive has been that data and algorithms in themselves won’t change anything – “but they do offer us the potential to experiment and to learn what works best under what circumstances”. “Connecting individual data points with multitude of related data can have an enormously positive impact on farm productivity,” says Yasir. Andrew Bate will also speak. He’s an Australian farmer who founded agritech startup, SwarmFarm Robotics and developed the SwarmBot – a platform of robotic machines which can ‘talk’ to one another and work in swarms to autonomously plant, weed and undertake pest control. The opening keynote at MobileTECH 2019 is Russell Craig, Microsoft NZ’s national technology ofﬁcer. His focus will be on how digital innovations are transforming the NZ economy. MobileTECH 2019 is on April 3-4 in Rotorua. Details are at: www.mobiletech.events

When tax brackets go past their use-by date When the tax brackets were last adjusted in 2010 there was a $21,000 gap between the average wage and the top tax threshold of $70,000. That gap has narrowed to just $8000 today, and if nothing changes then within a few years the average wage-earner will be in the top tax bracket. That was clearly not the intent of the Income Tax Act. While the tax thresholds have remained frozen for the last decade, the cost of living has been rising and under this taxhappy Government those costs are now accelerating. Every NZ family knows a dollar doesn’t go as far as it once did. The effect is known as bracket creep, where inﬂation leaves someone worse off even as they cross into a higher tax bracket. It is taxation by stealth. National legislated to change the thresholds in 2017 but the current Government cancelled that. It was a mistake. Someone earning $70,000 doesn’t feel wealthy when all their costs are rising and they shouldn’t be punished for thresholds that haven’t moved with the times. A National Government will amend the Income Tax Act so tax thresholds are adjusted every three years, in line

with the cost of living. For someone on the average wage of $62,000 the policy will put an extra $9900 back into their pocket during 10 years. National commits to indexing tax thresholds to inflation in its first term. Under our policy within 12 months of an election the Treasury would be required to advise a new Government how much the thresholds should be adjusted for inflation. The Finance Minister of the day would be able to veto an adjustment in adverse circumstances such as a financial crisis but would then be expected to explain why Kiwis were falling behind. When compared to this Government’s wasteful policies, the impact in lost Crown revenue is relatively modest. The estimated $650 million of foregone tax after the first adjustment is roughly one-fifth of the current Government’s commitment to NZ First’s provincial slush fund. We believe that’s achievable, with National’s prudent and sensible economic policies. This is only one aspect of National’s policy programme but it goes to one of our core beliefs: that ordinary New Zea-

landers should be able to keep more of what they earn. They certainly need every dollar under the current Government, whose policies have added to the cost of petrol, rent and electricity and which is squandering hundreds of millions of dollars on working groups. National is committed to helping New Zealanders get ahead. We won’t allow future Governments to use inﬂation as an annual tax increase by stealth and we’ll cancel new taxes piled on by the present Government.

140 HP TRACTOR & LOADER TALK TO US ABOUT OUR COMPETITIVE FINANCE OPTIONS

Pure power Loader excludes attachments.

ARION 620C & CLAAS FL120 loader 6 cylinder 6.8 L turbo charged engine Flexible QUADRISHIFT 16F/16R transmission Full 4 corner cab suspension 98 L/min hydraulic flow Factory fitted CLAAS FL120 loader

Gearing you up for success.

BAY OF PLENTY 292 Te Ngae Road, Rotorua Vaughn Carson 027 223 3365 Glenn Davidson 027 223 3363

claasharvestcentre.com

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Page 54

classiﬁed listings curriculum vitae

CV’s THAT STAND OUT. Don’t let your C.V. get lost amongst all the others. Get the WOW factor. A C.V. For You can provide you with a personal and professional touch. From scratch or update existing ones. Check out samples on www.facebook.com/acvforyou or Ph/text on 021 27 27 912.

for sale

LASERS FOR SALE, two to choose from. One classic older beach boat, perfect for cruising around the harbour/lake. $1,000. Another highly spec’d Laser, former national champs boat.

Been in storage for several years. Heaps of gear, several sails and spares. Also a complete Radial rig and sail, never used. Would suit aspiring racer as this boat has plenty potential. $5000. No beach trailers. Both Lasers in Tauranga. May deliver in BOP-Coromandel. Ph 0274 996 747. PULLETS HY-LINE BROWN, great layers. Phone 07 824 1762 www.eurekapoultryfarm.weebly. com

house sitting wanted

ACTIVE RETIRED COUPLE. We are looking to house sit a farm, lifestyle block or similar. Phone Brian or Julie on 027 206 1605.

trades & services National News online.... including business, sport, politics & more! Major International & Regional News updates

Download your free App now!

March 11-17 LIST YOUR Thames Heritage festival, RURAL EVENT 2019’s theme: transportation. See full list of events at: HERE! www.thamesheritage.nz email your listing to: merle@sunmedia.co.nz with ‘Rural Event’ in the subject line.

March 9

Worm Composting

Workshop, 1pm-3.30pm, Tauranga Racecourse, $38 (TCC residents only). See: tinyurl.com/y9p3y6to

March 10

Dahlia Show, Hamilton

Gardens, 11.30am-3.30pm. Autumn Migration Day, 1pm, guest speaker Nick Ledgard, Pukorokoro Miranda Shorebird Centre. See: tinyurl. com/y8kog9pr

March 17

Home-made Soaps, Creams & Ointments, 10am-3pm, Katikati Resource Centre, $85. See tinyurl.com/ yae47e97

March 15-16

March 19

Festival of Colours,

Plant Propagation

Hamilton Creative Fibre Clubrooms, 56 Brookﬁeld St, Hamilton East, $3. Ph Lynette 07 871 9308.

Through the Year, 9.30am-2.30pm, Whakamarama near Tauranga, $52. Also June 18, September 17, November 12. See: tinyurl.com/y8hjdoc6

March 16

Wild Medicine:

Foraging for Remedies, 10am3pm, Aongatete near Katikati, $65. See: tinyurl.com/yb59p4pz

March 20

Preserve, Swap, Eat

Katikati Community Centre, gold coin. See: tinyurl.com/ y736oauh

March 16-17

March 23

Rotorua Walking Festival,

from 8am both days. Choose from 10km-42km events. See: www.rotoruawalkingfestival. org.nz

Now in its 27th year, the event attracts people from far and wide – and this time a train-load of visitors from Te Kuiti’s northern neighbours. This year, a Glenbrook Vintage Railways diesel train will roll into the Te Kuiti’s refurbished historical railway buildings. Up to 300 passengers will make their way to Te Kuiti for the day from Auckland, with stops in Waiuku, Glenbrook, Pukekohe, Hamilton and Te Awamutu. The day’s main attraction is the running of the sheep, where hundreds of animals are herded along Te Kuiti’s main street,

a iN &

SEED DrESSi

qua lity paSturE SEED

NT ME AT

PEP PE R

Memorial Centre, Matamata, $15 (season ticket $30). Open 9am-8pm (Weds-Fri) and 9am-5pm (Sat). Ph Fern 07 888 6672.

Home Composting

March 28

Workshop, 1.30pm, near Turangi, free but registration essential. See: tinyurl.com/ ycnl6x6n

Waikato Horticultural

Society: Water Features, 7.30pm, Hamilton Gardens Gate 2, $5. Ph Carmel 07 855 3404.

Baches to Beautiful Homes Tour, 10am-4pm, Taupo. See tinyurl.com/y7cqkyvx

March 31

March 24

10am-2.30pm, Hamilton Gardens, free.

The Educated Gardener,

Great Pumpkin Carnival,

9.30am-12.30pm, Falls Retreat, Karangahake Gorge, $75. See: www.fallsretreat. co.nz

April 6-28

March 27-30

Coromandel to Kaimai Range. See: www. echowalkfest.org.nz

Festival of Flowers, Civic &

Echo Walking Festival,

Up to 8000 people are expected to view the annual Great New Zealand Sheep Muster on Te Kuiti’s main street on Saturday, March 30.

ID G E CRSEEDS

BER TR TIM E

Day, Waitomo Caves Domain from 9am. See: www. waitomosportsday.org.nz

Workshop, 1.30pm, Taupo Community Gardens, free but registration essential. See: tinyurl.com/ycnl6x6n

Sheep to take over Te Kuiti’s main street

Waitomo Caves 53rd Sports

Home Composting

Sheep making their way down the main street. starting at the Te Kuiti’s northern end of famous town and making shearer their way towards statue. the town’s 6m shearer statue. The exact number of sheep is a closelyguarded secret and punters can guess how many sheep complete the run, in one of the many competitions on the day. Things kick-off at 10am and there is much more than running sheep to keep visitors entertained, says Waitomo District Council group manager community services Helen Beever. Local entertainers will provide live music, there are sheep dog displays, shearing demonstrations, market stalls, and an arts and craft area. There is also a basketball competition, a free bouncy castle, rock climbing wall and ‘dunk tank’ for kids to enjoy. “There will also be a chance for the more creative Great NZ Muster goers to enter the Wearable Arts Competition,” says Helen. Planning for the event began months ago, and this year around 40 volunteers are helping out to keep things running smoothly, says Helen. “It is Waitomo District Council’s main community event. “It is very much a traditional event that our local community looks forward to every year. The event – including the shears – brings business and provides an opportunity to showcase what is unique and special about Waitomo.” The muster is timed to coincide with the NZ Shearing Championships, which runs from March 28-30, and sees shearers and woolhandlers from around the country gather in Te Kuiti for the three-day event. Muster-goers can watch them in action on the last day of competition. Te Kuiti bills itself as the shearing capital of the world, and with sheep taking over the street one day a year, a 6m tall statue of a man shearing a sheep at the town’s entrance, and being home to world champion shearer, David Fagan, who can argue? Josephine Reader

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Page 55

MASSEY FERGUSSON GLOBAL TRACTOR RANGE With the new Global Series, Massey Ferguson has taken the concept of a utility tractor and re-engineered it from the ground up to meet the needs of present and future farming. On offer in this power bracket is an array of build specifications, options and accessories, all designed to help tailor your machine exactly the way you need for your farming operation

4700

5700

6700

• 4707 & 4708 ROPS • 74 & 82HP • 12F X 12R Synchro shutt transmission • 65lpm Hyd flow • 3300kg rear lift

• 5709 & 5710 ROPS • 92 & 102HP • 12F X 12R Synchro shutt transmission • 92lpm Hyd flow • 4400kg rear lift

• • • •

6711, 6712 & 6713 ROPS & Cab versions 112-122 & 132HP 12F X 12R Synchro shutt transmission 92lpm Hyd flow • 5200kg rear lift

5700SL MASSEY FERGUSON MID RANGE Our 5700SL Range consists of 5710, 5711, 5712 & 5713 all with the 4.4L AGCO Power engine which delivers power and performance while maintaining maximum efficiency. These Massey Ferguson transmissions are renowned for their outstanding robust reliability with smooth and effortless operation, offering completely clutchless control via the left-hand Power Control lever or those on the right-hand console or armrest, as well as on convenient loader joystick controls.

5710 • 100HP

5711 • 110HP

5712 • 120HP

5713 • 130HP

Transmission 16F X 16R Dyna4, clutchless power shuttle, 100lpm hydraulic flow, 5400kg rear lift. The MF 5700 SL Series tractors are designed specifically to provide optimum handling ability with the MF Series loaders. The perfect combination.

MASSEY FERGUSON HAY & FORAGE TOOLS MOWERS, CONDITIONERS, TEDDERS, RAKES, ROUND BALERS, SQUARE BALERS

DM Series Mowers & Conditioners Working widths 2.82m to 3.85m

DM Series Mowers out front Mowers & Conditioners Working widths 3m

TD Series 3 point linkage tedders Working widths 5.2 & 6.6m

TD Series trailing turbo tedders Working widths 7.7m 10.2m

Thames Street, Morrinsville Mike Kitching Glenn Greay Todd Hewitt

07 889 7055

021 735 665 021 862 169 021 945 817

RK Series Mounted Rakes Working widths 3.6 & 4.5m

RK Series trailing 2 & 4 rotor rakes Working widths 5.8m to 12.5m

1840 Coventional Baler (center feed)

RB Series Round Balers RB4160V Patented Constant Pressure System (CPS) Hyrdroflex control (HFC) on drop floor Std with 13 knives Large greasable bearings Variable chamber up to 1.6m

490 Te Ngae Road, Rotorua Mike Rogers Tony Johnston Ian Pilcher

Bale size 356 x 457

2200 Series Large Square Balers Bale size 800 x 900 Bale size 1200 x 900 Bale size 1200 x 1300

07 345 8560

021 998 819 021 349816 021 908 123

Full Range of Quality Farm Machinery I www.piakotractors.co.nz

Page 56

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

ing out Charlotte help the on s w with the co ville. ns ri or M farm in

Left: Gracie and Lola Hill visiting the goat farm in Hodderville.

Right: Triplets Catherine, Benjamin and Alexandra, 18 months old, hanging out with ‘Rangi’ their horse in Waipawa.

Leon, aged 2, is having fun on a rainy day in Rotorua.

BS! A R G R O F P U E IZ R P (high resolution jpgs) to Box 240, details can be emailed PO

Pictures and d to Coast & Country, untry Camera” or poste phone number with every entry. “Co .nz .co sun he @t hy kat e a name, address and Tauranga. Please includ

Left: Mollie, aged 11, who is just hanging out with her pet chicken ‘Basil’ in Te Puke.