Coast & Country News - March 2020 by Sun Media

In 2014 Samantha Wang and Benjamin Jeng decided they wanted a better work-life balance. They also wanted to live in the same place. The couple owned a lifestyle block at Newstead, near Hamilton, which had a field of overgrown blueberry bushes that had gon wild. Today they grow blueberries and lavender and offer a range of products. Read their story on page 37. Photo: Catherine Fry.

Horse of the Year PG 10

Drought Conditions PG 12-13

Farm Vehicles & Machinery PG 22-25

Pasture Renovation PG 32-33

Country Living PG 37-39

Avocados PG 41-43

Rural Homes & Buildings PG 44-45

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Chewing the chickpeas As a journo, press releases constantly arrive in the email inbox with PR professionals edging to get clients promotion in the newspaper.

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Once such release arrived recently, titled: ‘Plant Based Fakeaway tipped to be top food trend this NZ summer’ says gardein’. “The surge in fast food brands featuring plant-based options on their menus – including BurgerFuel and HELL Pizza – is raising awareness of the fact that plant-based takeaway can be just as tasty as the meaty original,” says Adrian Gastevski, sales director of Future Farm Co, the importer of gardein NZ and Australia. “In turn, this is encouraging consumers to experiment with recreating their own fakeaway versions at home.” Adrian reckons while not all of us are ready to give up eating meat and dairy full-time, more and more of us are keen to experiment with cutting down for environmental, ethical or health reasons. “However, we don’t want to give up on our favourite comfort and takeaway foods either,” says Adrian. “The choice in NZ supermarkets has skyrocketed, and continued innovation means that burgers are no longer the only option either. “Kiwis wanting to cut down on meat can recreate crispy chicken sandwiches, meatball subs and even fish and chips using 100 per cent plant-based products. “It’s now possible to make healthier, plant-based

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versions of much-loved takeaways without having to compromise on taste.” Mulling over this in the supermarket recently, I picked up a pack of chickpea burger patties to try at home. Growing up on dairy farm, I was raised on red meat and three veg. And while my attitude towards the flexitarian movement has softened – I may consider cooking a few non-meat meals here and there – my partner does not want to go this way at all. So the chickpea burgers went on the barbecue. The verdict? He was not impressed. He didn’t like the taste and didn’t want to see them on his plate in future. I didn’t mind them but thought the chickpea pattie would be better-suited as a filler ingredient to a red-meat burger. So will I buy them again? Well, probably not. So we are possibly not part of the cunsumer market gardein is after. But as I ventured north on a trip to the big smoke I could see other diners may be giving this plant-protein/flexitarian thing a real shot. Many cafés now have signs in the cabinet saying if each item is ‘keto’, ‘no-carb’, ‘lowcarb’, ‘vegan’ or ‘plant protein’. And Burger King’s new Rebel Whopper – made without meat or animal by-products – did look enticing on the lit-up billboard in Downtown Auckland. So should NZ’s red meat industry be worried? Not by my household, but it seems consumers’ tastes are changing – and fast. I guess taste is up to the individual – and only time will tell if this ‘fake meat’ movement is becoming a real threat to our red meat industry, both here and abroad.

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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Sharing industry know-how with youth vital

The eight contestants in 2020’s Bay of Plenty Young Grower of the Year competition. Photos: Andrew Warner.

Getting senior and more experienced members of the horticulture industry to share and transfer their vast knowledge is vital, according to newlyannounced 2020 Bay of Plenty Young Grower of the Year, Melissa Van Den Heuvel.

possess “and linking them with growers who can help build and grow on that”. “Let’s create an ‘avos in schools’ programme. With the support of industry stakeholders we would be asking growers to give up their time to help benefit the communities that they are part of. And to support and mentor skills with their very own orchard. Students and teachers would not only learn about planting, pest Knowledge transfer within the monitoring, orchard budgeting industry was the 24-year-old’s key message in her speech to 400 people Melissa Van Den Heuvel giving and the supply chain of our fruit as she vied to win the title at the her speech at the February 12 and vegetables, but opportunities to learn about the nutritional and February 12 gala dinner at Mount gala awards dinner. sustainability aspects [of the fruit].” Maunganui’s Trustpower Baypark. The competition took place at the February 8 Te Puke A&P Lifestyle Show, where competitors tested Endless opportunities their skills and ability to run a successful orchard in a Melissa said you always hear children say in class they series of challenges. This was followed by a gala dinner want to be doctors and pilots. “But you never hear them speech competition, which asked the eight contestants say they want to be avocado growers. We need to change to discuss ‘How can we as growers be better members that. If this knowledge transfer of ideas doesn’t take of the wider community?’ place we risk losing the innovative ideas that build the Runner-up was 24-year-old Emily Crum, a former foundations of the very industry we are a part of.” EastPack employee who has moved to Whangarei Melissa, who holds a Bachelor of science majoring in to run her family’s orchard management company, environmental planning, works as an industry systems also won the Apata planting, pruning and grafting associate at NZ Avocado. challenge; and the speech competition. Third place Overwhelmed by her win, Melissa says she’s happy went to Megan Fox, who works for the Southern Cross to further represent the industry in the national NZ Horticulture Graduate Programme where she manages Young Fruit Grower competition in Wellington 25ha and is orchard technical advisor for 115ha. this August. Her prize is an all-expenses paid trip Megan also won the inaugural ASB Innovation Award. to Wellington to compete for the national title plus $1500 cash. “This really isn’t possible without my workmates at NZ Avocado, my partner, the amazing Future use growers, and the fantastic people across the industry After greeting the audience in Maori, Melissa said who have helped me along the way.” growers across NZ’s avocado and kiwifruit industries The 24-year-old says growing up in Rotorua “all we have a wealth of knowledge that they’ve gained from many years on-orchard. “It’s important that before they heard about was dairy and forestry and no-one really mentioned horticulture – so it wasn’t until my job at switch the tractor keys for fishing rods, and trade the NZ Avocado that I learnt what it was all about”. orchards for beaches that this information is passed on. “Now I can’t imagine myself working anywhere else.” “Not only to my own generation but to future Melissa loves working in the avocado industry generations to come. We need this knowledge transfer “because it is exciting and ever-changing with to ensure it is available for future use. I propose we endless opportunities” and she entered the BOPYG create a link – between those with the knowledge and competition to further her knowledge about the those who are young, keen and eager to learn. industry she feels fortunate to be a part of. “Let’s, as an industry, invest time and effort into She also won the Avocado Tree Planting challenge, the generations that will be taking on the land in and the KVH Horticultural Biosecurity challenge – future years.” and impressed judges with her speech. Melissa proposed a programme that would channel Post-awards she told Coast & Country News that the instinctive curiosity and eagerness that children

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a big risk for the horticulture industry is there’s not many young people in it, particularly avocados. “When I first started at NZ Avocado I was the youngest in my office, I didn’t know anyone my age [working in avocados]. When I was growing up, horticulture wasn’t talked about [as a career], so you don’t really realise what opportunities are out there. So I think the only way to get that knowledge or promotion really is by having the people who know about it and have basically spent their lives on orchards, actually passing that information on.” Nikki Johnston, CEO of NZ Kiwifruit

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Serious sustainability Assembling and planting wooden boxes, putting together kit-set bikes and watching a women’s brain being monitored while she ate kiwifruit is not the experience most delegates would expect from a conference, but that’s exactly what those who attended Zespri’s Momentum 2020 event enjoyed. Held at Mount Maunganui on February 13-14, the conference attracted 680 delegates from throughout New Zealand and around the world. Day one focused on the New Zealand launch of Zespri’s refreshed brand logo and its sustainability commitments, plus addresses by keynote speakers. Day two began with activities organised by the company Team Up Events, which included a table of flatpack planter boxes and battery drills that proved irresistible for male and females keen for a bit of DIY. Delegates who opted to fill the planters with potting mix and plants created a spectacle that looked more like an intense crime or bio-hazard scene as they donned blue full-length aprons and gloves for Far right: Ruth Underwood of Fruition Horticulture points to the instructions the task. Across the other side of the room, boxes for assembling a planter box to fellow team members. containing bicycles in pieces were unpacked and assembly begun – some teams choosing to wing it to the conference, Zespri chief growth device. “Twenty years ago, the fan while others, mainly those which included at least officer Jiunn Shih said Zespri and the was fantastic but now there are a lot one women member, following the instructions. NZ kiwifruit industry has a history of similar brands out there.” The Post-conference, health services provider Te Manu of never standing still and constantly refreshed Zespri logo, which retains the Toroa and Street Kai, which provides food to striving to do better. red ‘Z’ and has a new green fan, was homeless people, received bikes and planter boxes; The new brand is not dramatically designed to position the company for Gate Pa Primary received bikes; different from the its next phase of growth. community enhancement group logo developed, “We tested the new logo and found Good Neighbour received planter along with the brand both Zespri and non-Zespri consumers boxes and rest home Malyon name Zespri, in had the same level of recognition, but House Mount Maunganui 1997. “We looked that recognition was 2.5 seconds faster. received plants. at our old brand to That increases the probability that see what elements of consumer will buy us [Zespri kiwifruit] Brand refresh the logo helped us be by 29 per cent. Consumers said the While the activities brought a recognised.” new logo felt different, more modern.” lighter side to the conference, the These are the red first day was all about business Address challenges ‘Z’, two shades of and the future direction of Zespri Zespri CEO Dan Mathieson said green and the fan and the NZ kiwifruit industry. now is the time for the industry to The original Zespri logo. Launching the refreshed brand stand up and address challenges it faced from reducing the use of plastic to looking after waterways, people and the environment. “We must continue to grow, to stand out for the right reasons, to innovate ahead of the competition, and to have brand recognition of what we stand for as much as great quality kiwifruit.” Zespri International’s chief innovation and sustainability officer Carol Ward set out the company’s The refreshed Zespri logo, which sustainability plans, saying while the was launched at Momentum 2020. industry has a light environmental ...continued

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and a little fun at conference Heidi Darcy has her brain monitored for reactions while she eats a kiwifruit, under the watchful eye of Associate Professor Nick Gant of the University of Auckland.

social practices. Carol says she has confidence in the industry’s ability to meet the challenges. “I know when we face adversity we know how to work together, how to change systems and respond to the markets. The strength of our industry lies in our collective response to market requirements and our ability to solve challenges together.” Momentum was attended by onshore and offshore-based Zespri staff and customers and exhibitors from around the world, including Japan, China, Korea, Canada, Taiwan, France, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain as well as

Kiwi growers and agri-professionals. Among its speakers were USAbased Produce Marketing Association CEO Cathy Burns; international research company Kantar’s brand and marketing chief knowledge officer J. Walker Smith; Australian National University’s earth system scientist and Emeritus Professor Will Steffen; University of Auckland psychology professor Dr Niki Harré; KPMG global head of agribusiness Ian Proudfoot; and North American fresh produce distribution and marketing company Oppenheimer’s executive vice-president and COO Doug Grant. Elaine Fisher

continued...

footprint and offered a healthy food to the world, more could be done. “We have a deep respect for the principles of taiao, caring for the environment, land, water, air and people, but consumers are expecting even more sustainable business practices from us. “We know we have challenges and know there are things we can do better. We have to play our part, to stand up and face the risks and address the challenges, not stand passive waiting for issues to hit us.”

Zespri’s commitment

Zespri had a commitment to “helping people, communities and the environment around the world, thrive through the goodness of kiwifruit”. To meet that commitment Zespri’s Hands-on potting up a planter box at the Momentum 2020 sustainability team has developed a conference are kiwifruit growers Wakata Kingi, Kura Benton sustainability framework that includes and Pua Taikato. that all of its packaging would be 100 per cent reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025. The other goals are: Zespri will be carbon positive by 2035; Zespri will disclose its climate risks and opportunities by August 2021 and develop an industry-wide climate change adaptation plan by December 2022; by 2025, the industry will more effectively monitor nutrient inputs and losses as well as its impact on water – better protecting and enhancing water quality; Zespri will partner with local communities on healthy lifestyle programmes in all major Zespri markets by 2022; and that Zespri will attract and build a thriving workforce amongst its value chain by 2030, continually improving

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Now attention is turning to a pest of the sea. The venture to harvest the invasive seaweed undaria from Coromandel mussel farms and create a premium edible export product holds significant promise, but also faces significant obstacles, says Lucas Evans, who is a director of Wakame Fresh, the company behind the initiative. Undaria or ‘wakame’ first appeared in New Zealand waters in the 1980s, brought here by cargo ships. It is classified as an unwanted organism under the Biosecurity Act because it competes with native aquatic plants and clogs the dropper ropes of mussel farms. In fact, it is one of nine marine species on the list of the world’s 100 worst invasive species. However, undaria is also an edible seaweed widely used in Asia, Japan in particular, and is most often served in soups and salads. Japanese aquatic farmers have grown wakame commercially since around 710 AD. Lucas says today’s Japanese seaweed market has an estimated annual value of more than US $2 billion and “there's a real opportunity for our Coromandel product to be a high-value offering”. For the last seven years Lucas and fellow director Lance Townsend have been harvesting undaria for domestic consumption. They began exporting salted product to Australia in 2018.

Future funding

However, the most lucrative market is in Japan and now Wakame Fresh has received $75,000 from the Government’s Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund to investigate the commercial viability of harvesting, processing and exporting the edible seaweed to Japan where quality wakame is in short supply. The first project to receive money from the Ministry for Primary Industries fund, Wakame Fresh is

Wakame Fresh directors Lucas Evans and Lance Townsend have been harvesting undaria for domestic consumption for seven years and began exporting salted product to Australia in 2018. contributing $114,182 to the commercial viability test. Wakame Fresh has also received an invaluable boost to its endeavours from a consortium of two Japanese companies, Kataoka Corporation and Sankou Foods, which have invited Wakame Fresh to participate in a trial to explore the prospect of exporting New Zealand-produced wakame to Japan on a commercially-viable basis. This invitation followed a visit in October 2018 by CEOs of the two companies and Lucas says the resulting trial is an opportunity to build a relationship with a Japanese organisation that offers in-market expertise and networks. “The relationship could take various forms, but the importance of a committed local channel partner should not be underestimated. In addition, the trial and the relationship provide an opportunity to access wakame experts and develop a wakame knowledge base and manufacturing capability in NZ.”

Challenges ahead

Last October Wakame Fresh released the Whakatiputipu Feasibility Report, a year-long study investigating the opportunities and obstacles to the

...continued

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

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pest into gourmet delight continued...

establishment of a successful seaweed industry, not only in the Thames-Coromandel region, but nationally too. “The feasibility report has led to a rapid increase in our knowledge and understanding of the salted wakame market in Japan and the methods available to produce this in NZ,” says Lucas. While the report highlighted the opportunities offered by the Japanese market, where wakame is a popular part of the cuisine, it also identified the significant challenges for NZ to overcome – including distance to market, knowledge of production techniques and the market, and competitors with lower production costs and centuries of accumulated experience. Lucas says one of those obstacles is the cost associated with removing the mid-rib of the undaria, which is an ingredient used in other products but traditionally cut away by hand from salted wakame. This is an expensive process in NZ because of the high cost of labour. Wakame Fresh is keen to find a mechanical solution but so far removing the stem by machine has adversely affected the quality. “We are working to find an automatic solution but in the meantime are factoring in the cost of manual removal into our economic projections.”

removed and de-ribbed. The next step is to press the product to remove excess moisture, before packaging ready for market. Undaria has become well-established in NZ waters in both the North Wakame Fresh director Lucas Evans with a A plate of freshly blanched Wakame. and South Islands, Japanese delegation group. and Lucas says even intensive harvesting from mussel farms is likely to be economically sustainable long-term. There is also the SEE DEMO VIDEO ONLINE future possibility for farming the seaweed if lucrative markets can be established. The success of Wakame in NZ depends on this country being able to produce a product that consumers in Japan will pay a premium for. A recent development, which may work to NZ’s advantage, is that the Japanese Government is to introduce mandatory country of origin labelling this year. “Currently, DELMORINO FLIPPER MULCHER DELMORINO LEVANTE MULCHER some Chinese wakame, which reversable 1.9m Cut width hammer 1.58m, center mount suit 25-60HP, many Japanese consumers consider flails suit 60-120HP $7995 Inc GST roller, Reversable $4895 Inc GST as of lower quality, is sold under Japanese branding,” says Lucas.

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Establishing a NZ brand as a premium product, possibly Winter harvests supported by scientific evidence To date Wakame Fresh has been from research yet to be concluded, a low-key operation, harvesting which may show that wakame undaria in collaboration with from its waters is higher in certain Agricultural Minster Damien Gilbert James and David Blyth vitamins and has less mercury than from Gold Ridge Marine Farm O’Connor and Coromandel Mayor Northern Hemisphere wakame, Ltd, who have provided access to may help ensure it receives a Sandra Goudie with a plate of their Coromandel mussel farms. premium in the markets. freshly blanched Wakame. “We only harvest in winter “It is not yet clear-cut that and process the wakame inside a converted shipping exporting wild-harvested salted Wakame to Japan is a container which we have equipped especially for the commercially-viable and sustainable opportunity,” says product.” Lucas. “There are many challenges and hurdles that Supported so far by casual staff, with this year’s must first be overcome and much more knowledge and commercial feasibility trial the company will require understanding that must be gained. more employees. “Given the track record NZ has of innovating to “We hope to work with local iwi and government to solve problems and develop new aquaculture solutions, find employment solutions as at this stage paying wages Wakame Fresh remains optimistic that we can could be a challenge.” overcome many of these challenges,” says Lucas. The process of harvesting begins when barges lift Find out more at: https://wakamefresh.co.nz droppers, festooned with undaria, from the mussel Elaine Fisher farms. Stripped from the droppers by knife, the top and bottom of the seaweed is cut off, along with any inferior quality leaf. These segments are stored in a separate bin, to be later used as compost. When a container of undaria of a quality suitable for processing as salted wakame is full, the seaweed is blanched for about 45 seconds in water heated to between 80 and 90 degrees Celsius before being plunged into the first of two cooling tubs

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Let’s celebrate our frontrunners primary sector, and its supporters”. The categories are Primary Industry Team; Primary Industry Science and Research; Primary Industry Innovation and Collaboration Project; Primary Industry Chief Executive; Industry Champion; and Outstanding Contribution to Primary Industries in NZ. Entries close March 30. See: https://primaryindustries. co.nz/awards/overview

Entries are open for the national Primary Industries New Zealand Awards, with this year’s winners to be presented at the Primary Industries Summit at Te Papa, Wellington, on June 24. Federated Farmers president Katie Milne says the awards “are all about celebrating the significant achievements being made every week, every month and every year by NZ’s

Fulvic NZ’s Daily Recharge Tonic is now being sold in the US.

A new industry for an organic soil nutrient is expected to employ 30 people in Kawerau thanks to a chance discovery following oil exploration surveys in the 1950s. Fulvic acid is a water-soluble material found in a part of soil called the humus, and is the result of a combination of several acids created when organic matter decomposes. In what is believed to be a first for the country, New Zealand exports of the organic soil nutrient – discovered by accident in a Southland farm – have launched into the US. A deposit of fulvic acid covering one square kilometre – and believed to be worth millions of dollars in processed form – was discovered following oil and gas exploration surveys in the 1950s. Deposits of this size are rare by international standards with only a few countries around the world able to extract fulvic acid for nutritional products. The refined humus is processed into a liquid an marketed as a dietary supplement designed to support immunity, nutrient absorption and natural energy levels. Now the first 1.5-tonne shipment of the product fro NZ has left for the US market and is being sold through Amazon – believed to be the first time this nutrient ha been sold into the North American market. The nutritional business will be a significant boost for the Bay of Plenty economy with a planned factory upgrade to process the mineral in Kawerau for export

markets, says NZ Fulvic director Rhys Brooking. The Kawerau factory will eventually employ 30 locals as they seek to grow international and local distribution volumes. Rhys says the product has been well received in the domestic market having launched here just 14 months ago. “Internationally, there is a well-established market for fulvic acid amongst consumer seeking to support their dietary needs – we believe the purity of the NZ product is well-positioned to help capture a share of this wellness market. “Farming techniques can remove the nutrient from the soil so even people who have a diet rich in vegetables may benefit from supplementation with nutrients such as fulvic acid,” says Rhys. The soil extraction process used to extract the nutrient involves filtering the soil to separate the fulvic acid from the humus with the land later carefully reinstated – in line with NZ Fulvic’s organic approach to production. Rhys says they’re currently producing a nutrientrich fertiliser product that is organically certified and are working on certification for their fulvic acid supplement as well.

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HORSE OF THE YEAR

Page 10

HOTY offers Tokyo Olympics qualifier spot One of our top Olympic equestrian contenders, Clarke Johnstone, is working hard preparing for Horse of the Year 2020, with his sights set on qualifying his 10-year-old bay horse for this year’s Tokyo Olympics.

“I’m taking seven horses to the show, riding in a mixture of show jumping and eventing classes. “But the main goal is to qualify Aces High for Tokyo and win the eventing title with him,” says Clarke. The pair have already won the Puhinui International Horse Trials in December. In 2016, Clarke came sixth at Rio with his talented 15-year-old grey, Balmoral Sensation, which has already qualified for Tokyo Clarke is based in New Zealand, at the family’s equestrian property in the Waikato, however the gap between the end of the NZ equestrian season in May, and the Olympics in July, is too long. As a result, three contenders for the NZ Olympic equestrian team, and their horses, will head to the United Kingdom and join other squad members already based there. As soon as Horse of the Year is over, Clarke and his two horses

are flying out. “It’s likely I’ll lease stables at an equestrian facility near Reading, Berkshire.” Clarke hopes to include Tattersalls International Horse Trials in Ireland, Clarke Johnstone, with his Olympic contenders, and one of the Aces High and Balmoral Sensation. few team events, Photo: Catherine Fry. CHIO Aachen, “In the UK, I have to top it up in Germany. with running and gym work.” This offers the NZ squad the In mid-June, the NZ equestrian opportunity to compete as a team team of three riders and four before the Olympics. “To keep us all competition-ready horses will be announced, and it is Clarke’s goal to be one of the until July, we’ll train and compete three riders. “Ritchie is already in the Northern Hemisphere experienced, reliable and consistent summer events.” and I’m hoping Aces High will While at home in NZ, working prove to be a great second horse nine horses, and coaching other option for me.” riders takes care of Clarke’s fitness. Catherine Fry

A multi-use a horse manure collector

A casual conversation in rural New Zealand provided the inspiration for a horse manure collector, which has since gone global. Hilton McLachlan, owner-director of Rotorua-based Tuff Plastic Moulders, says about 15 years ago he was leaning on a fence post watching an elderly neighbour

THE

ORIGINAL

shovelling horse manure onto a trailer. “I yelled to him: ‘Les! There has to be a better way; that looks like too much hard work’.” After a “sit There are two models of down and lots of Paddock Groomer available. different ideas”, Hilton considered the wide variety of farm machinery mechanisms available at the time, and the first Paddock Groomer was born. He says the latest model has a purpose-built, aerodynamically-shaped body made from polyethylene. “The entire unit is built at our workshop in Rotorua with all parts sourced from NZ suppliers,” says Hilton. “It’s truly a NZ-made product.” Two models are available; the Original Groomer, best suited to smaller paddocks; and the Super Groomer for large paddocks or where several horses are held. Hilton says both operate the same way and are best towed by a quad-bike but can be used behind a large ride-on mower or ute with special tow bars that Tuff Plastic Moulders has available. The company now exports to multiple countries including the US, Denmark, Sweden, Germany and Australia, with its Swedish importer shipping to many EU countries. The Paddock Groomer is aptly named, says Hilton. It not only picks up manure but grooms the paddock, stripping dock, other weeds and picks up dry, dead grass, sticks and stones.

EDUCATION

Page 11

Horticulture offers ‘dream jobs’ “You could just about write down your dream job and then find it within horticulture,” says Erin Atkinson, the first woman to win the national title of Young Fruit Grower of the Year. The opportunities the industry offers, especially for young people, is the reason Erin is supporting the Katikati Innovative Horticulture initiative, which has attracting more young people into the industry among its aims. Katikati Innovative Horticulture is fundraising to build and operate a $500,000 facility for Katikati College’s Innovative Horticulture Programme. The centre will also be a venue where training providers run courses for young people not in education, employment or training and assist them into employment, as well as adults seeking to upskill in horticulture. “The project will support the growing demand for skilled workers in the horticultural industry by providing young people with the skills and knowledge that the industry needs, improving their employability,” says Katikati Innovative Horticulture manager Hilary Johnson. “Erin is a shining example of what can be achieved in the industry and is a great role model for other young people to follow.” Erin, who won the Bay of Plenty Young Fruit Grower of the Year and then the national Fruit Grower of the Year awards in 2017, is today an ApataGROW manager, responsible for the management of 250ha of kiwifruit and 20 staff. “I often speak to college students about

what the industry offers. They could fly the drones which monitor crops, be the ones who invent robotic picking and packing machines, the advisors who visit growers to help them achieve better harvest results, or work hands-on in the outdoors picking, pruning and managing orchards, or in packhouses packing and monitoring fruit quality. “There are job opportunities for people at whatever stage they are at in their lives, with the chance to upskill when they are ready. Often there is the flexibility to work around the needs of young families too.” Young people are needed and valued within the industry, which, in the kiwifruit industry, is dominated by a generation of older orchard owners, says Erin. That’s among the reasons she endorses the work of the Katikati Innovative Horticulture Trust, which has engaged with major industry and regional stakeholders, and all have shown overwhelming support for the initiative. With a full business plan, the trust has support from Zespri, NZKGI, Priority One, industry leaders, Katikati horticultural businesses – and financial pledges for the new facility. To donate or learn more, go to: https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/ innovative-horticulture-is-the-future https://www.facebook.com/kihproject Or contact: kkhort_trust@katikaticollege. school.nz

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Page 12

COPING WITH DROUGHT CONDITIONS

Dry puts heat on farmers and growers Kiwifruit and avocado growers are busy checking irrigation systems are running smoothly to keep fruit growing while dairy farmers are trying to reduce stock numbers and relying on supplementary feed to keep milking in the hope more rain will come soon. While some regions in the Central Northland received rain late-February, many are still tinder dry after a very mild 12-plus months. And, a fire ba remains in place across the entire North Island.

Federated Farmers Bay of Plenty provincial president Darryl Jensen says the dry is really starting to bite. “Vets say they’re getting inundated with calls from farmers wanting them to scan cows to determine empty stock, so they can de-stock farms to reduce demands for feed,” says Darryl, who farms at Paengaroa. Darryl says feed supplement – both on-farm and brought-in – is being fed to stock on BOP farms to keep cows milking with pasture extremely dry and grass growth minimal. “Farmers are making calculations on their feed – how much they can feed out now but also how much they need to reserve to get through winter. This call will be coming soon for many farmers.”

Meanwhile, Federated Farmers Waikato provincial president Andrew McGiven’s region is brown with grass growth rates non-existent. “On the plus-side, with the good winter and spring we had in 2019 nearly everyone I’ve spoken to has still got good amounts of supplementary feed – whether it be grass silage etc. “And silage supplies online are still at reasonable prices – so feed availability is still there at the moment and maize crops – soon to be harvested – by and large are looking very good too.”

Meatworks delays

The main woe is delays at meatworks preventing farmers from reducing stock numbers. “Whether that’s the China situation or the normal influx of animals coming out of the woodwork in a dry spell…so it’s a matter of planning wellahead and expecting at least a 10-day to three-week wait for the meatworks.” And despite low water tables with most Waikato farmers 300m-400mm behind their usual 12-month rainfall, Andrew hasn’t heard of anyone’s water supplies drying up. “This is good news as animal welfare is the priority.” Hugh Moore, who runs avocado orchard management and harvesting cool storage service KauriPak at Kauri Point near Katikati, says it’s probably one of the severest dry periods the WBOP has seen.

“One of the reasons for that is we’ve actually been in a type of ‘drought’ for 18 months. We haven’t had our aquifiers fille up and if you look at the last 18 months it’s probably been some of the driest months on record. “This means our drought started quite early – we’ve been irrigating since October. Last year we began mid-December. And our tensiometers through winter showed deficits at deep levels, at 900m,” says the kiwifruit and avocado grower. “So there is kiwifruit in stress, such as outside rows, avocados are fighting it but fruit will start to slow down. I’m currently measuring kiwifruit growth and growth is slowing.” Hugh says while kiwifruit will have a higher dry matter content this upcoming season, he expects smaller size fruit. “The 1982 drought I remember – I believe this is worse. This time we’ve virtually had no rain. “We’ve just had to choke one of our bores back. So we were pumping too fast for what it could give us – and we haven’t had to do that before.”

Water irrigation

Aongatete Avocados Ltd’s Tony Bradley, who grows kiwifruit and offers avocado orchard management services in the Western BOP, says his team is busy ensuring water irrigation systems are running properly to plants. “It’s very dry – for small avocado trees you need to be

watering twice-a-week.” Tony says this period’s normal fruit drop could be much bigger due to being so dry and many avocados on trees are soft to touch and easy to knock off – and the ability to keep fruit for more than three weeks is decreasing. His kiwifruit crops have just been thinned again to rid of reject and small fruit, and the aim now is to build dry matter. “There might be smaller fruit – but it will be high in taste and it will be a good harvest year – not for volume but for quality.”

Maize crops

Bill Webb of Paengaroa-based Bill Webb Feed Solutions says a Pongakawa dairy farmer told him they’d dropped back to once-aday because he was running out of feed. “He’s basically giving the cows silage, PK and a picking of grass as he’s not too sure he’ll still be milking at the end of February when we deliver his maize silage. So if we don’t get some decent rain shortly, there will be a lot of farmers drying off early.” And some maize crops are starting to show signs of moisture stress. “You can see driving around that the lighter areas of the soil and paddocks are definitely starting to dry out. “They call this pineappling, where it goes spiky and a blue-green colour where all moisture has gone out of the plant. So it’s going to be a bit of a fickle maize harvest season I’d say – unless we get rain.” Merle Foster

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COPING WITH DROUGHT CONDITIONS

Water storage is an essential summer ‘insurance’ tool Do you have enough water storage? Will it get you through the next drought? Having suitable water storage for the increasing hotter, drier summer weather is like insurance for your livestock and crops, says Flexi Tanks director Anton Meier. “Since we introduced our innovative liquid storage bladders in 2013, Flexi Tanks NZ has been busy keeping up with the increasing demand of installing flexible water tanks and effluent storage bladder throughout New Zealand.” Anton says they’ve had an unprecedented increase in the number of savvy farmers and growers, who harvest and store rainwater in Flexi Tanks. “These customers now have that vital storage buffer when water supply is low.” “Water infrastructure in the Marlborough region can struggle to keep up with water supply for vineyards and horticulture so produce growers are implementing our water storage bladders for peace of mind,” says Anton. “Growers who have 500,000 litres or 1,000,000 litres of water stored in our Flexi Tanks can continue to irrigate throughout the peak of summer eliminating plant stress and fear of crop losses.” Many Waikato horticulturists are adopting Flexi Tanks to store their water too, says Anton. “They’ve found that the quality of their stored water remains constant with no sunlight or algae growth, sprays, dust, vermin, or birds entering the tank, which leaves the water just as fresh as the day it went into the tank. “The use of Flexi Tanks is a very economical, costeffective solution for storing large quantities of quality water.” To contact Flexi Tanks NZ, see their advert below on this page.

Page 13

If needed - support is at end of phone While Waikato’s Rural Support Trust hasn’t been fielding extra calls yet due to dry weather, chairman Neil Bateup does want to remind fellow farmers that anyone is welcome to call any time.

“We’re not experiencing any increase in calls yet, but I think this indicates at this point in time farmers are coping well and still have feed to feed their cows,” says Neil. “Farmers have done well this year in putting away a lot of extra feed when it was available in spring – so they’ve been able to rely on that. And they’ll probably be okay until the end of February – that’s

a iN &

SEED DrESSi

they require – and the final tool is when many will have to make some to dry the whole herd off and decisions and that’s when stress maintenance feed until the can come on.” rain comes and grass grows.” Neil, who dairy-farms just But he does worry east of Huntly, says his about young farmers who cows are basically living haven’t farmed through on silage, a little bit of PK drought before. “Some and a little picking of dry may just need someone to stalk in paddocks. “We’re talk to rationalise what’s still milking once-a-day – as happening and some of the we do all season – and we’ve decisions they have to make.” culled animals that won’t be And so Neil says the RSTW part of the herd next year. is available to talk to anybody Neil says farmers have a toolbox of things they can Rural Support Trust at any time. Contact their do to cope with dry weather. Waikato chairperson their website, Facebook page or phone 0800 787 254. “They can use these tools as Neil Bateup.

ID G E CRSEEDS

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DAIRY INDUSTRY AWARDS

Page 14

Nominate those committed and passionate From restoring bush on their property to its former natural state to creating a lake and monitoring the water quality, this what made the Ropers stand out to the judges of last year’s Responsible Dairying Award. “Passionate, enthusiastic and energetic with an ability to motivate those around them” is how Taranaki farmers Damian and Jane Roper were described by the judges before being bestowed the 2019 Fonterra Responsible Dairying Award

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Taranaki farmers Damian and Jane Roper won the title and receiving the Responsible Dairying Award last year. John Wilson Memorial Trophy at the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards. “And we want to hear about the Now the NZDIA judges want new people who are farming responsibly, blood nominated for the national both environmentally and socially, and award that recognises dairy farmers showcasing excellence on a daily basis. who demonstrate leadership in their This is a chance for people to nominate approach to sustainable dairying and their neighbour, their employer or who are ambassadors for the industry. someone in their community.” NZDIA general manager Robin Robin says the award gives the Congdon says the award was introduced opportunity to recognise farmers to recognise those dairy farmers who that have progressed to ownership, are respected by their farming peers and demonstrate leadership in their farming their community for their attitude and practices “and are a role model for our role in sustainable dairying. younger farmers coming through,” says “The 2020 Fonterra Responsible Robin. Dairying Award farmer could come The NZDIAs are supported by from any of New Zealand’s milk national sponsors Westpac, DeLaval, suppliers and any farmer or farming Ecolab, Federated Farmers, Fonterra, partnership who demonstrates a high Honda Motorcycles, LIC, Meridian calibre of performance and leadership in Energy, and Ravensdown, along with the areas of responsible and sustainable industry partners DairyNZ and Primary care of people, animals, ecosystems and ITO. communities are eligible to enter.” Nomination forms are available at And while some of the rural dairyindustryawards.co.nz, with entries community are shy to step forward closing March 20. for such for kudos, or to nominate From those nominations, three their peers, Robin says it’s important finalists will be selected and interviewed to showcase the good work farmers are by a panel of judges on Friday, May doing within the industry as it does not 15, at the National Final to be held always get the exposure it deserves. in Auckland this year with the winner “We have excellent, experienced announced at the Awards dinner on dairy farmers creating and working on May 16. wonderful projects that have a positive Entry for this award is by nomination effect on the environment. only via: dairyindustryawards.co.nz

21/02/20 11:18 AM

DAIRY INDUSTRY AWARDS

Page 15

Have a say on biodiversity plan

Dairy farmers have already undertaken a wide range of work to protect biodiversity, such as planting, pest control, retiring or covenanting land, and fencing off native vegetation, according to DairyNZ.

Dairy farmers are being encouraged to make a submission on a new biodiversity proposal that may affect them, and to share their views on the best way to enhance and protect biodiversity on-farm. The Ministry for the Environment is consulting on a proposed National Policy Statement for Indigenous Biodiversity until March 14, and DairyNZ is encouraging farmers to make a submission. DairyNZ’s environment manager Aslan Wright-Stow says dairy farmers have carried out a wide range of work in recent years to

protect and improve biodiversity on their farms. “This includes planting, pest control, retiring or covenanting land, and fencing off native vegetation, which benefits water quality and ecosystems. “Farmers recognise the important role indigenous plants and trees and native species play in our ecosystems. “The consultation underway is an opportunity for farmers and the community to consider practical options to preserve and enhance biodiversity, and to highlight the work they have already done to protect biodiversity.” Dairy farmers with indigenous vegetation, native bird or insect habitats, or wetlands on their farms

could be affected by the proposals in the consultation document. The proposals would require all councils to identify and map Significant Natural Areas, or SNAs, of indigenous biodiversity in consultation with qualified ecologists. Some councils have already undertaken this work, while others have not. “Farmers with land classed as having an SNA may have restrictions placed on new activities they can carry out in and around that area,” says Aslan. “Many dairy farmers are already taking action on-farm to protect indigenous biodiversity. We encourage farmers to make submissions sharing their views on

the proposals and their practical experience of what works well on farm and what does not.” Aslan says dome dairy farmers who don’t have SNAs on their farms could also be affected by the proposals. For example, if the farm borders an area of indigenous vegetation on a neighbouring farm or a national park. More information on how the proposals may affect dairy farmers is available at: dairynz. co.nz/biodiversity DairyNZ is planning to make a submission on the proposal on behalf of farmers.

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4WDs & ATVs

Operating farm vehicles in dry weather Federated Farmers is urging all rural folk to take precautions to try to ensure work activities don’t spark a vegetation blaze. With many regions in the North Island facing tinder dry conditions, one risk that may be overlooked is clumps of cowpat or similar material sticking to the exhausts of quad bikes and other vehicles, says Federated Farmers Hawke’s Bay president Jim Galloway. “It sticks on there, dries, heats and starts smoldering. If that falls into dry grass it can set off flames. The entire North Island and most of the South is now in either a Prohibited or Restricted fire season, according to Fire and Emergency New Zealand. FENZ manager rural fire Tim Mitchell says the hot and dry conditions have created extreme fire risk, including in areas such as Northland, Auckland and Waikato which haven’t traditionally experienced such extreme fire danger for an extended period. “Please pay attention to the fire season “If you are in an area where there is a prohibited fire season there is a total fire ban. No fires are permitted including rubbish fires. This is because there is a very real risk that in the current conditions a fire could easily spread and get out of control.” Jim’s region has already experienced rural fires, and it’s thought two were caused by the blades of a mower striking stone, wire or something else hard and causing a spark. “In the current conditions, farmers and others should think very carefully about whether it’s safe to do mowing or topping or any other activity that could cause sparks,” says Jim. Another risk to look out for is power lines are sagging in the heat may touch tree-tops underneath. And wind causing powerline ‘clapping’ – or touching – is another factor. “We’re just asking farmers and others in the

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community to be vigilant and to take a precautionary approach,” says Jim. “It’s sound practice to carry a fire extinguisher on farm vehicles. That could end up being the difference between a patch of smoldering grass and a major event. “If you’ve got a vehicle that carries spray equipment and the tank is not is use, it’s a good idea to fill it with water and park it in an accessible place so you’ve got a means of putting out small fires.

One spark

Tim says all New Zealanders are urged to be careful and take precautions to prevent a fire starting or getting out of control. “It only takes one spark to start a fire – so don’t risk it. Some routine activities like driving vehicles through roadside vegetation, or machinery work, can cause a fire in these extremely dry conditions. “If you have to, use any machinery that could spark such as lawnmowers, welding, or even a plough, in the morning or evenings – during the cooler parts of the day. Make sure any permitted fires or historic burn sites from the past two months are fully extinguished. “Even though they may seem out, they have the potential to remain hot and flare up in these conditions.” Find more about the fire season status in your area at: www.checkitsalright.nz

20/02/20 11:36 AM

DAIRY

Page 17

Has farming industry sold its soul? The days of capital gains, particularly on intensive dairy operations, has come to a grinding halt and that’s causing real concern amongst many farmers – and it shouldn’t. A payout in excess of $7kgMS should provide any well-run operation with enough income to service debt, pay wages, and fund a lifestyle the envy of many business owners – and yet a significant number are struggling to pay down debt. Obviously, the size of the debt is a genuine factor. However there’s something else, which unless addressed will continue to erode financial surpluses at an ever increasing rate. The reality is that pasture production is steadily declining, at an ever-increasing rate, and it cannot be blamed entirely on drought and flood Soil carbon levels have steadily decreased in the Waikato during the last 30 years at a rate of one tonne of carbon/ha/year, coinciding with the time over which synthetic nitrogen in the form of urea has been regularly used. Time will tell how

direct that relationship might be, however in the short-term having an accurate figure of total pasture grown each year is information all farmers should have at their fingertips – because it’s pasture that generates profit

Accurate data

Without accurate growth data for the current and previous season, decision making regarding fertiliser, supplementary feed, stocking rate, and calving/lambing dates is little better than guess work and that’s no longer good enough. It was not data that I knew as a sharemilker, and as farm owners we should have made it our business to know, however it was easier not to. We simply carried on without a sound business plan, believing that ever-increasing land prices would keep the bank at bay. When the total annual pasture growth figure is known, particularly monthly growth rates, decision making becomes a whole lot simpler and fear of what might go wrong significantly declines. Based on accurate growth rates from an intensive dryland dairy unit near Edgecumbe during the last 11 years a reasonable variation between a dry and ‘normal’ season is 4000kgDM/ha. And it’s important to remember that there’s 1500kgDM/ha of base pasture cover that can be utilised if necessary. The years of least

growth are a result of dry summers with slow growth during the second half of January, February, and into March. By ensuring a 30-day grazing interval is obtained by Christmas the effect of a dry season doesn’t kick in until February, and it’s only when the normally reliable early-March rain doesn’t arrive that a change in plan is required. With good data a worst-case scenario can be planned for and the steps of early culling and grazing off can be taken, followed by an early dry-off date if necessary, eliminating the skinny animal/no feed situation.

nutritious, and digestible. Conversely when soil temperatures are above 20 degrees Celsius grasses will produce a seed head with feed quality deteriorating and declining animal consumption. The usual counter is to graze to a lower level and increase the frequency of grazings, resulting in shallow rooting plants, lots of bare earth, and a general

Game-changer

Dry summers and autumns are never welcome, but they are part of farming and with a generous stash of hay/silage on hand the driest of seasons can be managed. Eliminating regular urea applications is a game-changer. Synthetic N reduces soil carbon, or at best slows the rate at which it is sequestered, which is important as an extra one per cent increase in soil carbon may result in an extra 144,000 litres/ha of moisture stored within the rootzone of pasture. Less synthetic N means an increase in clover and an abundance of clover protects the soil surface reducing evaporation. Even gumboot-high mature clover remains highly palatable,

Green diamond to celebrate gem of a farmer Auckland jewellers Mark and Pamela Beckett are showing their love for New Zealand dairy farmers by giving away a twocarat diamond valued at $12,000. And it’s not just any old diamond – it is a rare green diamond, and quite possibly the only one in the country. “Our lives over the last 40-plus years have revolved around precious gems and we believe Kiwi dairy farmers are gems too,” says Mr Beckett, who is London-trained. “We reckon this rare green diamond is the perfect way to celebrate our dairy farmers who are committed to caring for our land and environment, and, we believe, just like diamonds, that they are here forever.” The Becketts both hail from dairy farming families. Mark was raised on a dairy farm in Matamata, while Pamela often visited her grandparents’ dairy farm as a child on land that is now part of Auckland Airport. The diamond is the prize in a promotion organised by DairyNZ, the industry body representing NZ dairy farmers. Until March 10, anyone can nominate a dairy farmer they feel is worthy of receiving the diamond. The winner will be announced between March 16-18. DairyNZ’s general manager farm performance Vanessa Winnin, says she is touched by the Becketts’

appreciation for dairy farmers. “This is such a thoughtful gift – a true surprise and delight for farmers. While we receive praise and recognition for the work our farmers and their teams are doing on-farm and in their surrounding communities, this is the first time anyone has expressed their admiration and thanks in this way.” To nominate a gem of a dairy farmer, see: dairynz.co.nz/diamonds

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The problem with rural lending What are they not telling us about farm debt, debt-to-asset ratios and repayment of loans? Firstly, there have been big changes in the desire by rural bankers to back the farming sector. In the past you could borrow any amount at interest only as long as you were inside the 66 per cent debt ratio, you could prove you could service the debt and had the proven record and ability to do so. The interest only was like ‘renting’ the money, the cost of debt was low and any profits were poured int expansion, development, or the purchase of other assets.

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Historically, debt per kilograms of milk solids – which is one of the criteria – got up to $30 to $33 per kgMS depending on the cost of production, location and so on. So, 300 cows producing 100,000 kgMS could borrow

up to about $3 million interest only and generally included all other debt costs and no leases. In parts of New Zealand, more particularly the West Coast and Northland, farms could be purchased for around that $26 to $30 per kgMS. It is clear that these less soughtafter and somewhat difficult locations have seen a drop in value to around $20 per kgMS, which often equals the debt. So basically they are insolvent and there are many farms in those locations which are just that, insolvent. The better localities have held their values, but the word is they are back by $10,000 per hectare or about 20 per cent. Put on top of that the changes brought in by the Reserve Bank and the need to ‘amortise’ or repay the debt with principle and interest makes it even harder. If your debt is at five per cent interest say, repaid over say 20 years, it will see your debt cost jump to nearly 10 per cent. In addition, the principle part of the debt costs is not tax deductible.

The new normal

So today, the other thing that is going on, even with the talk of an $8 payout, is the banks are no longer ‘in love’ with farming. They are restructuring their rural loan portfolios and even making rural bankers redundant.

Apparently, if you want to borrow for agriculture their ratios are much reduced, making it even harder to buy farms. Now they say they are ‘open for business’, but the debt-to-asset ratios are a lot less and you have to be repaying principle on all loan amounts and all criteria have hardened. Evidently, one of the main reasons they want a reduced rural portfolio is they say they are making no money out of them. Say a $3 million loan at five per cent interest only, with no add-ons, such as vehicle finance, overdrafts, etc, make for very poor pickings for the bank. So, if you find yourself under pressure to repay debt, principle and interest over a number of years, the bank is putting pressure on you and your trusty old rural banker has vanished, you need to realise that this is the new normal, $8 payout possibility and all. The remedy or best practice is to realise charges are coming and embrace them and try to work with your banker and consultants for a mutually acceptable outcome. The times sure are a changing and none so much as rural lending. Disclaimer: These are the opinions of Don Fraser of Fraser Farm Finance. Any decisions made should not be based on this article alone and appropriate professional assistance should be sought. Don Fraser is the principal of Fraser Farm Finance and a consultant to the farming industry. Contact him on 021 777 675.

DAIRY

Page 19

Summer 100-day rotation is possible Having a spring rotation planner has long been a helpful tool for farmers to navigate grazing management in the two months after calving, in order to maximise available feed and the resulting production they achieve between calving and Christmas. From dry-off on June 1, most herds start on a 100-day rotation that becomes exponentially shorter until October, when they reach a 20-day rotation. So why don’t we do the same for summer? By March, most farms are on a 20-30-day rotation and are suffering in the heat. Paddocks have been grazed so hard that the pasture has all but disappeared, exposing the soil to the baking hot sun. If farmers implemented a 100-day rotation during summer – starting December 15 – by the end of February the herd would have only been around the farm once. As there is a mental challenge to overcome – between preparing for summer and trying to get the most production in spring – most farmers would cringe at the thought of a 100-day round in summer. But it’s important to understand the idea in a greater context. First, we need to appreciate the importance of diversity in our paddocks; ryegrass grown with synthetic nitrogen no longer cuts the mustard if you want to take care of your farm during summer.

that are now available. We’ll be looking at sowing a variety of seeds – chicory, plantain, clovers, cocksfoot and ryegrass – for a good, varied diet in the paddock. Ryegrass is certainly part of a balanced diet – even as standing hay, as it is a valuable fibre source for cows – but it cannot be relied upon to carry the herd through the summer dry. Summer crops also have their place, but again, they cannot be prioritised at the expense of neglected pasture. I believe introducing a summer rotation planner, encouraging the growth of clover, and sowing a variety of seeds to increase diversity is the way forward in navigating our increasingly dry summers without sacrificing animal health, production and profitabilit We know farmers whose cows are still producing 1.62kgMS/day in the height of summer because they’re using a long round to keep cover to protect their soil and stop it from drying out, and are providing cows with a varied diet that allows them to keep producing milk. A 100-day rotation in summer is certainly worth a discussion.

Major component

A major component of diversity is clover. A biologically balanced farm produces a great deal of clover, which fixes nitrogen naturally from the air and reduces the need for synthetic nitrogen. The biology in the soil also increases, releasing nutrients and trace elements to the plant roots. On our Total Replacement Therapy demonstration farm we have not only witnessed pasture cover increase during the summer, but as we reach the end of Phase One we’ve seen clover increase from under 10 per cent visible clover at the start of the programme to more than 50 per cent at our last farm walk. What started as ground cover, filling the gaps in pasture and protecting soil from the sun, is now standing tall, lush and radiantly green while the ryegrass around it is dry, stalky and brown. Clover is like fruit salad and ice-cream to cows; it doesn’t lose palatability in the summer heat and, as a leafy plant, helps cows produce more milk than dry ryegrass because cows use less energy to digest clover. On our demonstration farm we haven’t planted any clover; it is always present under the soil, waiting for the right conditions to thrive.

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CARTAGE & EARTHWORKS

New BOP stock truck eff luent disposal site A new stock truck effluent disposal site has been opened at the foot of the Kaimai Range to reduce risk of waste spillages onto roads from trucks carrying livestock to and from the Bay of Plenty and across the Waikato region and prevent it from entering waterways. Opened on February 11, the site represents a significant step towards making Waikato roads and the environment cleaner and safe. The new facility is at the intersection of State Highway 29 and State Highway 24, and 3km east of Te Poi, and is adjacent to an existing police-operated enforcement and weigh-in facility to ensure traffic flows safely wit minimal disruption for residents and the general public. It’s estimated 7300 stock trucks use this area of roads every year

and 2,555,000 litres of stock effluent could be collected from this new site each year. Waikato regional councillor and chair of the regional transport committee Hugh Vercoe says while this may seem an unassuming site, the essential need it meets for the Matamata-Piako and wider Waikato communities shouldn’t be understated. “Careful planning and stakeholder engagement over a number of years have ensured we were able to provide the smart solution and value for money residents and ratepayers called for. “The facility represents a considered and collaborative response to concerns from local communities, improving safety without tarnishing the landscape at the foot of the majestic Kaimai Range,” says Hugh. The site has been developed by Waikato Regional Council and the NZTA, in consultation with Matamata-Piako

District Council and with support from other key stakeholders. NZTA portfolio delivery manager Darryl Coalter says besides being unpleasant and bad for the environment, spilled stock effluent can present a skidding danger and create a safety hazard on roads by being splattered on to windscreens. “We’re pleased to be working with our partners to make journeys through the Waikato and over to the Bay of Plenty safer and more pleasant.” The facility includes a 50,000L tank below ground, odour extractor and monitoring system and is designed to be easy-to-use for stock truck drivers. Construction and operating costs will be funded by WRC and NZTA. A targeted rate for stock truck effluent disposal facilities has been collected for this purpose since 2012.

Local mana whenua representatives open the new stock truck effluent disposal site last month.

Colin Amrein CONTRACTING Ltd

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Page 22

FARM VEHICLES, MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

Kiwifruit industry led to new ‘breed’ of tractor

A David Brown 885 tractor ‘orchardised’ by Stan Hainge and the team at Central Bay Motors especially for the kiwifruit industry.

When kiwifruit first became a commercial crop in Te Puke in the 1960s it triggered a revolution in technology and equipment; including the development of the world’s first orchardised tractors. Ninety-year-old Stan Hainge of Mount Maunganui was involved in the modification of standard David Brown tractors when he was employed as mechanic and salesman for the Te Puke agents Central Bay Motors. “There was a need for lowered tractors which could drive under the vines, but no one was making them in the late-1970searly-1980s,” says Stan. Ed Barker, owner of Central Bay Motors, and representatives of the New Zealand importers of David Brown Tractors, Todd Motors, went to the factory in Meltham, England, in 1979 to arrange for tractors suitable for modification to be exported to NZ “The tractors arrived by rail to Te Puke in wooden crates. We used to go to the rail siding, offload the crates, open them up, reassemble the tractors and drive them to the workshop for modification. “Later, when we were ordering more tractors, they came by truck to the workshop,” Stan recalls.

Front lowered

“They didn’t need a lot of modification. The front axle kingpin housings were cut off, and rewelded so the front was lowered. Eight bolts on each side, which held the final drive, were moved three

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holes to lower the rear end. We put on smaller 1020 wheels at the front and 20 inch wheels at the rear. “The mudguards had to be replaced so we bought the steel from Auckland and had it rolled into shape by a firm in Greerton. They were stronger than the original ones.” The exhaust was repositioned under the tractor and suspension for the seat was removed to position the driver even lower under the orchard canopy, meaning the ride was not that comfy. Te Puke orchardist Roland Cleaver, who interviewed Stan in 2013, described more of the modification process in an article he wrote. “The stabiliser bracket on the final drive had to be moved because it was no longer opposite the lift arm front pin. To put that right, a bracket was made to fit on the final drive and the origina bracket was attached so that it all lined up again.” This plus all the other changes “made for a very good orchard tractor,” wrote Roland, who was one of Stan’s early Te Puke customers.

Market advantage

Taking the initiative to modify the tractors for the new kiwifruit industry gave Central Bay Motors a significant market advantage in the region, and also nationwide with sales as far away as New Plymouth and Wanganui and to Kerikeri in Northland. Such was the company’s success it opened a branch in Katikati, which Stan managed. “Our company’s record year for sales, which would have been either the late-1970s or early-1980s was 79 new and used tractors, and most of them were orchard tractors,” says Stan.

FARM VEHICLES, MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT Stan continued working for the company after Giltrap Motors was sold and renamed White and Allen Motors but in1965 he and wife Bett bought a small lifestyle block of land in Cameron Rd, Te Puke. In 1966 Stan joined Barraud Motors as a tractor mechanic and salesman on a salary of 15 pound a week, with 20 pound commission on every tractor he sold. The company became Central Bay Motors. Stan retired at 60, after working for Adams Motors in Katikati selling Massey

Fergusons. “I got a bit of stick when I took that job as I’d been known as a loyal David Brown man,” Stan laughs. His career, from his early days with Gough, Gough and Hamer, to his time rebuilding used tractors and machinery for George Giltrap, prepared him well for helping to create specialised orchard tractors which in turn revolutionised efficiencies in the kiwifruit industry. It’s possible some of those tractors are still to be Elaine Fisher found on orchards today.

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Engineers from David Brown in England came to NZ to conduct training sessions for Kiwi mechanics – including Stan Hainge – at front right. Born and educated in Rotorua, Stan began his mechanic’s apprenticeship with Gough, Gough and Hamer in Rotorua in 1945 on a wage of 10 shillings. In March 1947 Stan drove a new Caterpillar Grader three days from Auckland to Te Puia, north of Gisborne, for delivery to a local council. “Ron Williamson and Doug Smallbone from Goughs came to pick me up and when we reached a bridge near Te Puia Springs we were warned not to cross because a tsunami had hit the coast – but we drove across anyway, with water flooding over the bridge. After finishing his apprenticeship, by working overtime to complete 8700 hours as quickly as possible, Stan worked for Ray Whitehouse maintaining forestry equipment and machinery breaking in land around the Central Plateau for farming.

Page 23

His next job was as a mechanic for George Giltrap in Rotorua. At the time imports of new machinery were few, so George bought ex-Army vehicles and council heavy trucks and machinery which Stan repaired or rebuilt for sale.

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Servicing tractors, Stan also began selling them too. “Returning World War II vets were getting ballot farms and funding to buy tractors. Reporoa contractor and Stan’s brother-in-law Donny Martelli was buying tractors from us and often recommended farmers do the same. “Competition among salesmen was tough so sometimes I’d park a brand-new tractor on the farm of someone who hadn’t yet decided which tractor to buy, so the salesman from another company would drive past without trying to make a sale.”

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Stan Hainge began his apprenticeship with the Rotorua firm Gough, Gough and Hamer in 1945.

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Tractor trek gives Gumboot Friday a leg up Mental health advocate and 2019 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year, Mike King, is embarking on a nationwide tour aboard a tractor to promote positive, societal and attitudinal change towards mental health in New Zealand. In the lead-up to Gumboot Friday on April 3, Mike King and 30 others will travel 2000km on a fleet of 20 tractors to host free community and school events throughout the country, from Cape Reinga to the Bluff. The Gumboot Friday initiative, which launched last year, aims to raise $5 million for free counselling for Kiwis. Last year Gumboot Friday raised $1.3 million to provide 10,670 critical counselling sessions to more than 2500 New Zealanders. Most sessions went to eight-11 year-olds, then 12-15-year-olds and 16-19-year-olds, with the top six regions with people accessing assistance being Otago, Canterbury, Auckland, Wellington, Bay of Plenty and the Waikato.

Rural communities

Meanwhile, New Zealand’s latest suicide statistics released by the Chief Coroner show another annual increase – in the year to June 30 last year 685 people took their own lives, which was 17 more than the previous year. Mike King says now more than ever, we need Kiwis to reach out to friends and whanau. “We encourage everyone to ask those you’re closest to if they’re okay.

Mental health advocate Mike King and 30 others will travel 2000km on a fleet of 20 tractors in the lead-up to Gumboot Friday on April 3 farming families to get in behind “Our nationwide trek is about raising awareness and encouraging the initiative.” communities and individuals to Tractor Trek is a fundraising drive drive the attitudinal and social that was launched in 2016 by Phil change that is needed to reverse Aish to raise support and awareness the incidence of anxiety, suicide for Hospice. and depression. “This year, with the help of the A message of hope highly-experienced Tractor Trek A chance encounter with his team, we are focused primarily on daughter Cat Levine and Mike our rural communities who face King led to the trek supporting high rates of poor mental health Gumboot Friday this year. and suicide,” says Mike. Cat says as fourth generation Federated Farmers NZ president farmers supporting and raising and health spokesperson Katie awareness for positive mental Milne says our rural communities health within the farming face physical and mental isolation, community is something they feel economic instability and limited strongly connected to as a family. access to health service – all “With this trek, we are sending a factors which contribute to poor message of hope to those in need. mental health. “Too many rural They are not alone and we support folk are so busy looking after their them wholeheartedly,” says Cat. families, their animals, friends and Community groups and service workmates that they put themselves at the bottom of the list, and fail to providers keen to be involved can email: tractor.trek@keytolife.org.nz reach out for help. Or find a Tractor Trek “Federated Farmers wishes event near you at: www. every success to Mike King and gumbootfridaytractortrek.org the Tractor Trek Team and urges

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KIWIFRUIT

Social licence to operate ‘critical for longevity’ In the fast-changing world of international markets influenced by consumer opinion, a “social licence to operate” is becoming increasingly important for kiwifruit growers. The subject has been investigated by Dr Mike Murphy, who is the New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Inc communications manager and author of the Kellogg’s Rural Leadership report titled ‘Grower’s role in promoting the value of New Zealand kiwifruit: mechanisms which encourage the use of good practice to create a positive identity for social license to operate’. The report is the result of six months of intensive research and interviews by Mike, who was one of 22 men and

women from a wide variety of rural careers, who took part in the six-month leadership programme last year. “When I started out on this project, I wanted to focus on something which would be of benefit to the kiwifruit industry and a topic which had not been thoroughly examined before. Quite what happens next with the report is still to be decided,” says Mike, who is to deliver his report and recommendations to the NZKGI executive. Through GLOBALGAP standards prescribed by Zespri, growers already exceed required minimum regulatory standards, but there is still room to go further and doing so is important if the industry is to be sustainable for the long term. “For instance, if research can show that by paying workers more than the minimum wage for pruning their

vines and picking fruit, growers will achieve better outcomes and returns it may be possible to encourage more growers to do so.”

Good relationships

Establishing good relationships with neighbours, such as by installing shelterbelts to reduce concerns about spray drift, is another way growers could improve their social licence to operate. A relatively new concept for agribusiness, ‘social licence to operate’ refers to the ongoing favourable acceptance of a company or industry standard business practices and operating procedures by its employees, stakeholders, and the general public. Mike says in his report: “Today, Social Licence to Operate is critical for business longevity. The kiwifruit industry is in a good position to implement communication mechanisms which further encourage growers to conduct good practice beyond the regulatory minimum. In addition, this implementation will further

Kelloggs Rural Leadership scholar, Dr Mike Murphy.

strengthen the industry’s ability to utilise SLO to create sustainable value and long-term profitability”. Social licence to operate is in many ways an intangible factor, because it is linked to perceptions and emotions, and in particular trust. “Trust involves if the business can be trusted, has a positive influence on society and is honest and ethical in the way that business is conducted. Brands, including those of the kiwifruit industry, are more resilient if they invest ‘reservoirs of trust-building activity’ (Colmar Brunton, 2019), which includes investment into building social capital with stakeholders. Trust is gained by stakeholders when businesses fulfil the socioemotional criteria required for SLO.” Mike says examining the importance of SLO is timely. “The kiwifruit

industry is already very busy in this area of sustainability to proactively gain social capital. One example is front-footing the topic of water sustainability as a joint industry effort.”

Very valuable

The kiwifruit industry is currently experiencing a profitable growth phase, which makes it more likely growers will be willing to focus on SLO initiatives. Taking part in the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme, says Mike, was very valuable including enabling him to network with people from across the primary sector. “One way or another we all face the same issues, although they may be dressed up a little differently. We also had the chance to meet and be addressed by senior industry leaders, politicians and government officials “It was a personally rewarding experience, but I also wanted to ensure the research which came from it was of value to the kiwifruit industry. “I would thoroughly recommend the programme to anyone interested in applying for a scholarship, with the proviso that they are aware it requires a lot of dedication and hard work over and above your normal job. In this I was very fortunate to have the support and encouragement of my boss, NZKGI CEO Nikki Johnson.” Mike’s report and more about the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme can be found at: https://ruralleaders. co.nz/

Elaine Fisher

KIWIFRUIT

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Capitalism versus prescription

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Page 28

FORESTRY

Lack of space in Chinese ports is bringing a virtual halt to New Zealand log exports to China, according to the New Zealand Forest Owners Association.

NZFOA president Peter Weir says precautions in China against coronavirus have resulted in almost no offtake of logs in China for processing, and exporters understand that the remaining log yard space at most ports near processing centres is quickly disappearing.

Sawmills

Exporters had hoped that business would return to normal after the extended Lunar New Year holiday finished in China two weeks ago, says Peter. “That hasn’t happened. Many Chinese sawmills are yet to get back to work. New Zealand exporters have nowhere else to send the industrial grade logs they harvest.” Peter says while NZ’s

domestic sawmills usually take about 40 per cent of the harvest, sawmills supplying the NZ housing market will only buy stiffer and higher quality sawlogs or knotfree logs from pruned trees for joinery. “The upper logs from a pruned tree often grade out as industrial logs, and these logs are exported.” In regions where there is no domestic sawmilling, many harvest contracting crews are being put on reduced hours or, worst case, stood down, says Peter. “Regrettably, many of our contractors have little alternative but to lay-off skilled workers.” New Zealand log exports to China were worth $2.7 billion for the year to the end of

December 2019. During the last three months very large volumes of European spruce salvaged from forests under attack by insects have been shipped into log markets in China.

Salvaged logs

Peter says that this flood of salvaged logs is directly attributable to climate change with recent warm winters and longer summers. “There would have been much less inventory pressure if these exports had not arrived in China, but the concern about coronavirus has happened at just the wrong time for NZ.” Peter says the situation is fluid with different

forest owners and management companies taking different approaches. “NZFOA members are doing what we can to retain our skilled labour force by sending better logs to domestic sawmills to make up for the shortfall from farm woodlots where logging has already ceased. “We continue to invest in the silvicultural work, including pruning, thinning and preparing recently-harvested land before replanting begins in May or June. “Most members will continue building safe forest roads and landings to be harvest-ready when markets recover. But that may be some months. “Many larger forest companies are assisting contractors with business management and financia advice. In Poverty Bay, we are delighted with the support we are receiving from local Federated Farmers who are looking for jobs to employ forest workers. Every few extra hours of income are most welcome.”

Lessen impact

Peter says the FOA is working closely with Te Uru Rakau in trying to lessen the impact of the log supply situation. “We are coordination with the Government seeing what we can do together. Neither of us can solve this situation, but working together as a partnership will lessen the impact. “Our members are not looking for handouts, but we do want to work out equitable ways for working with the Government to assist the various harvesting crews. They are ones who will need the help.”

FERTILISER

Page 29

Pick up and spread fert the same day For fertiliser spreading on all types of terrain, Heli-Hire has got it covered. The Rotorua-based company has been up and flying for 17 years, with David Lealand at the controls as chief executive officer, chief pilot, director and shareholder. Covering the Bay of Plenty, Waikato and King Country, the fleet includes five helicopters, plus a six-wheel fert truck and two eight-wheel fert trucks. David says the company can take care of the whole job, from beginning to end. “We can pick your fertiliser up from any fertiliser depot in the North Island in bulk or bags and have it spread on your farm the same day.

“We apply all granulated fert and liquid fert as well as lime applications,” says David. “We cover a wide range of crops including fodder beet, brassicas and maize.” David says his helicopters have the advantage of accuracy and spread of farm fertiliser and agri-chemicals. “HHL uses up-to-date technology for accuracy and precision,” says David. “We pride ourselves on providing a fast, efficient and cost-effective solution for our clients.” Born and bred on a farm, with vast experience in the forestry industry, David says he understands the importance of getting a cost-effective job done correctly and on time. He says the business has gone from strength-to-strength since its inception,

Update of carbon footprint of fertilisers used in NZ

A report from a study, to update the estimates of the average carbon footprint of a range of fertilisers used in New Zealand by Ballance Agri-Nutrients and Ravensdown, has been released.

The Fertiliser Association of NZ-commissioned study was based on local production and importation data for NZ fertilisers in 2010. The report was written by Dr Stewart Ledgard, who is a principal scientist with AgResearch and an Adjunct Professor of the Life Cycle Management Centre at Massey University. His research focus is the management of resource use and environmental impacts of pastoral farming systems. During the last decade this has involved application of Life Cycle Assessment across a range of NZ agricultural systems and products. Life cycle assessment methodology was used to account for all sources of greenhouse gas emissions in calculation of the carbon footprint of fertilisers, including that for transportation to a NZ port. The report provides the NZ fertiliser industry with information on the GHG emissions associated with the production and use of fertilisers on Kiwi farms.

It also determines the contribution of fertilisers to the total GHG emissions from NZ dairy, sheep and beef production. “Use of data from this project will enable the fertiliser industry to examine the ‘hot-spots’ in GHG emissions throughout the life cycle in the production and use of fertilisers in the primary sector,” says Stewart. FANZ chief executive Vera Power says it’s very positive to see that the results have shown a decrease between 2010 and 2018/2019 in the average carbon footprint of most fertilisers used by these companies “due to greater efficiencies across production and transportation and changes in the source of raw materials”. “For urea fertiliser and superphosphate these represent an eight per cent reduction and 28 per cent reduction respectively.” Emissions from shipping of raw materials to NZ was the largest contributor to the carbon footprint of superphosphate. The results also show a reduction in the contribution of nitrogen plus non-nitrogen fertiliser carbon footprint for milk from 8.5 per cent in a 2008/2009 study, to eight per cent in this study. For typical North Island sheep and beef products, the contribution of fertiliser to the carbon footprint was assessed at 2.8 per cent and to the whole farm carbon footprint 1 per cent.

using “cutting edge” technology. Other services provided by Heli-Hire include aerial spraying services for weed control, pasture spraying and facial eczema. The company also offers aerial heavy lifting services, plus scenic flights, along with hunting and fishin excursions. For further information, see: http://helihire.co.nz/

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Page 30

RETRACTING YSTEMS ertiliser dry for easy access cladding options cut waste

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Decrease nitrogen and increase production

EFFECTIVE RETRACTING

EFFECTIVE RETRACTING EFFECTIVE RETRACTING EFFECTIVE RETRACTING COVER SYSTEMS COVER SYSTEMS COVER SYSTEMS COVER SYSTEMS  Keeps feed or fertiliser dry The focus  Keeps Keeps feed feedor orfertiliser fertiliser dry Keeps dry feed or for fertiliser dryhas recently been on  Winch system easy access increasing pasture growth and  Winch Winchsystem systemfor for easy access quality with minimal added Winch access system easy access easy Canvas or steelfor cladding options nitrogen, without lessening  Canvas  Canvas options or steel cladding options Canvasor orsteel steelcladding cladding options  Save time and cut waste production. This is nothing new.  Save waste Save time and cut Inwaste Save time timeand andcut cut waste 2008, a hilly dairy

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farm I was supervising, (250ha of easy and 150ha of aerial), averaged 10,867kg/ha DM. In 2012 the average was 16,238, an increase of 49 per cent in five years. The best flats went to 20,650. Hills were 9200. Nitrogen input plummeted to 3kg/ha. We cut out superphosphate and potassium chloride, substituting better options and enabling the biology to repopulate. Soil fertility needs were calculated around calcium-magnesium soil balancing and trace elements. The fertiliser budget did not change. Animal health improved and costs went down. Most of that DM responses were owing to better biology; none was added. Balancing the Ca and Mg improved the microbial habitat. Mushrooms, frogs, eels and whitebait all increased. And 2008, 2009 and 2010 were all dry years. We have moved on since then and now have fantastic products such as Terragen Greatland microbial biostimulant and bio-fertiliser to work with to accelerate soil balancing. This is a game-changer, especially when microbial foods are added.

Nutrients to flouris

It takes 16 nutrients for a healthy system to flourish. Some suggest up to 64. It is not four or five. Soluble products can be counterproductive, causing leaching. Feed the animals in the soil, not the crop. The microbes and plants will interact to their mutual and synergistic benefit

Calcium is a fertiliser, not a pH changer. Ca and Mg are critical for correct soil structure. Used correctly they improve it. Use them blindly and the soil structure and microbe numbers will collapse. Balanced soil will have the correct pH and high microbial populations. Microbes can increase the availability of almost all nutrients. Some nutrients may decrease as they will be used for extra production, and in the conversion of atmospheric nitrogen for plant use or be displaced by another nutrient. And pH must be the result of the fertiliser programme, not the cause of it. Phosphorus need not be locked up in the soil, as it most often is. Biology will make it available if allowed to. I recently tested tracks through bush, and pasture soil. Both areas had the same fertiliser for the last five years. The bush showed 50 per cent higher levels of P. For Ca it was 25 per cent higher. That’s the power of fungi. Lose the fungi; lose the phosphate and calcium.

N applications

Applications of nitrogen can be scaled back drastically. Less than 50 per cent of the N is taken up by plants in any case. The rest causes havoc in the environment. Excess nitrate compromises animal health and promotes insect attack in plants. Nitrogen strips calcium and other cations out of the soil. Potassium as KCl is another problem. The chloride is readily taken up by plants, decreasing plant uptake of K. It hardens the soil, degrading microbial habitat. If pH is too high, you will have to restrict the amount of potassium to be applied in one application. Any excess is lost. We at Kiwi Fertiliser have the skills to improve your farming business beyond your expectations.

FERTILISER

Page 31

Exposing myths in a Post Truth Era We live in a post-truth world where opinion is given as much credence as fact, where social media is swamped with legitimate looking fake news.

Olsen in Colorado in the early-1950s for the alkaline soils of the mid-west of America. Here in New Zealand it was compared against the Truog and Bray 1 tests in the 1970s and was found to be a more reliable test for predicting phosphorus responses than the standard Truog test used back then. Many Where mainstream media only gives oxygen to trials were conducted around the country on difparticular social and political agendas, and where ferent soils calibrating pasture production to Olsen paid advertising can manipulate the truth for the P figures in the 1970s and 1980s. More moder betterment of the product seller. Through this soil tests such as the Resin P and Mehlich III have column I’ve waxed on about some of the dishonesty been shown to more accurately predict phosphate and lack of debate on the issue of climate change. responses on acidic soils. But the Government is And for anyone interested I have a four-minute unlikely to ever throw many millions of dollars YouTube clip countering the alarmist metanarrative into calibrating crop and pasture responses to these which can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/ newer tests. The Olsen P is still regarded internawatch?v=BiMYmRpmm9A tionally as a good test on alkaline soils. In the UK When it comes to claims on various fertilisers and for instance, the Olsen P test is the main test used soil fertility issues, I’ve heard a number of ‘myths’ on the alkaline calcareous soils of England, whereas that farmers have been told over the years, or ideas for the acidic soils in Scotland, the Morgan test is they have embraced which are plainly incorrect. Mark the preferred option. Twain once stated ‘There are lies, damned lies and statistics’, and unfortunately data can be manipulated Myth 4: All RPR fertilisers work similarly and are or twisted to legitimise a particular fallacy which is effective sources of phosphate. then regarded as a scientific fact To be classified as a Reactive Phosphate Rock, Here are some myths I’ve come across. at least 30 per cent of the total phosphate content

Myth 1: That 250kg of granulated fine particle

lime is the equivalent of 2.5 tonne of standard lime. This is totally incorrect. The fine particle lime may work quicker in displacing hydrogen ions and lift the pH quicker than coarser lime material, but once it is ‘spent’ its effect has gone, whereas the coarser lime will keep dissolving over a number of years and keep working. Fine particle granulated lime typically costs ten times as much per tonne and these sorts of claims are made by manufacturers to legitimise the sales of their expensive lime products. There may be some ballistic advantages with granulated limes, particularly when being flown on, but even if half of a standard lime blows away, which it doesn’t, at 10 times the cost, it is an expensive way of raising soil pH.

some Mediterranean rocks, which can take decades to fully work. Robin Boom,

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must dissolve in a citric acid solution. Generally, the higher the percentage of phosphate that dissolves, the quicker it will become available for plants to utilise. Alternative tests such as formic acid have been shown to more accurately mimic phosphate dissolution of RPR fertilisers, but overall trends generally are similar. Field trials have shown significant differences in the performance of different RPR fertilisers, with higher soluble products like Sechura working a lot faster than

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Myth 2: That 20 litres/ha of liquid seaweed is an effective fertiliser. Seaweed has very little natural nutrient value, except for a small amount of potassium. Liquid products are often fortified with artificial NPK and trac mineral additives, but even these applied at such light rates have limited value when mixed with water and sprayed on. To get the right amount of nutrient to maintain pasture or crop production, the fortified seaweed would have to be applied at such high rates, that it would be completely uneconomic. Seaweed may have some sort of ‘tonic’ value, as it contains certain plant hormones and has been shown to reduce the effects ryegrass staggers and other fungal toxins affecting livestock, but as a fertiliser itself seaweed is a very expensive source of nutrients.

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PASTURE RENOVATION

Page 32

A NEW ‘GAME CHANGER’ PERENNIAL RYEGRASS

Maize harvest is here

– and get renovating pasture soon!

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Avatar NEA is a very high yielding, very late heading (+22 days) tetraploid perennial ryegrass containing the NEA endophyte, bred for a combination of improved animal safety and persistence against insect pests. It has strong yearround growth performance, with high pasture quality and metabolizable energy content for high livestock performance. Based on high yields in company and industry trials Avatar is expected to become the benchmark amongst tetraploid perennial ryegrasses.

It’s very dry. As of February 20 we’ve had about 10mm of rain this year. That includes 3.5mm at our yard for February so far. I haven’t even seen the dust dampened once.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION FREEPHONE 0800 427 676 OR CONTACT

JAMES BRYAN Tel: 027 235 4989 james.bryan@cropmark.co.nz

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DairyNZ provides no assurance or warranty as to the accuracy, completeness or reliability of information in the Forage Value Index or at www. dairynz.co.nz/fvi. DairyNZ has no liability for any reliance on that information.

Luckily, the maize seems to be doing okay. But maize growing down Taupo way is drying out, which could have affected pollination, so there may not be much value in it. Waikato maize crops have experienced a similar thing. They may not have much of a cob because it got too dry earlier on and this affected pollination. The later-planted crops will be most affected, as they haven’t had the moisture to get them through pollination. Our earlier crops got some rain in December and early-January and we got good pollination – thank goodness! A bad pollination creates a cob not fully formed or the silk may have dehydrated and won’t pollinate kernels. Sometimes the timing of silks and pollination has been out with the funny weather. We started our maize harvest on February 20 – a week earlier than expected due to the hot, dry conditions. Some farmers were happy to get this feed earlier to keep cows milking, to put condition on them and slow the round down. Silage has been moving a bit faster this year and hay is doing better than last year too.

Early maize arrival

a iN &

SEED DrESSi

ID G E CRSEEDS

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Farmers need to get ready for their maize to arrive early. You need to get in touch with your suppliers or contractors early, as it will run out fast. Get stack sites ready, identify hazards and advise the contractors and trucking companies. Drains, crossings, overhead powerlines, uneven ground and holes in front of a stack tip trucks and trailers nearly every year, so try to prevent this from happening. Ensure the stack is

on a free-draining area away from water courses. Fill in any holes, level tracks and warn contractors of power lines. Make sure you have good access for long rigs to turn around; maybe drop fences. Have everything ready so the job runs smoothly for everyone.

Dust issues

The public needs to be aware there will be a lot of harvesting equipment moving around the regions. Also, this harvest there will be dust issues due to dry weather. We can’t help it. We have to get maize off paddocks. Be mindful of your neighbours. Communicate with them so they can close their homes, get their washing in and so forth. Then they don’t come to a house full of dust or washing full of dirt. If you talk to them, most will be happy to work in with you. Talk to your contractor to see if they can move to the other side of the paddock until the wind changes if necessary. Come to a compromise – it’s better than authorities getting involved. Use a good quality inoculant and ensure the maize is well-processed. If it’s dry maize, ensure it is chopped short and the kernels are well smashed-up and broken open, so it compacts easier. If in doubt, ring whoever is doing the job to check. You will need keep stacks well-covered, tyres touching, seal around the base, have bait stations set to keep vermin out. If you’ve got bird problems, put shade cloth over the tyres to keep them off. Keep the stack well-fenced to keep the stock off too. Farmers need to stay on oncea-day milking for as long as they can until silage or the rain arrives. Extend rounds out nice and long, cows do alright with a bit of rough feed, give them a bit more good quality supplementary feed to keep them going and the condition on

them. Then when rain arrives they can make the most of the payout. As for pasture renovation, everyone should be ordering seed now for the rains to come. My idea is the seed is better in the paddock than in the shed when it rains. If you’re drilling, carry on renovation work. But if you’re roller-seeding where you have light powdery soil, then think twice about doing this. Slugs could be lurking in dry dead matter. Leave a damp sack out overnight and you’ll soon find if you have a slug population. If so, use slug bait – because if seed is sitting on dry paddocks they’ll have a field day, they’ll love germination time too! But it’s better to have seed on paddocks ready to get the first rains. Be organised. Contractors get busy as rain arrives so there could be a delay. This plan has worked for me so far – but I’m not saying every situation is the same.

Total fire ba

With a total fire ban in the North Island be careful of work you’re doing on the farm. Any machinery that could create sparks or bearing failure like orchard mulchers can cause fires in the paddock or orchard, which are all tinder dry. Last year’s Nelson fires were started by ploughing. So be careful of what farming activities you’re doing…. or go to the beach, go fishing or something instead! If you’re looking like you’re about to run into a pinch period with feed, do something about it now. Don’t leave it until a Friday afternoon when you only have three bales of silage left. Transporters get busy and there could be a delay in delivery. Quality could also be down when demand is high

PASTURE RENOVATION

Pasture repair is key to growing grass after the dry

Page 33 a iN &

SEED DrESSi

ID G E CRSEEDS

qua lity paSturE SEED

Livestock has been the top priority in areas hit by the recent dry – and rightly so – but now, pastures also need attention, to fuel farm recovery after rain, and provide the main source of feed for the next 12 months.

“Even if the grass is brown, having 3cm-4cm of length on it is much better than having 1cm-2cm. The extra length holds the energy to power plants back up for growth when enough moisture is available.” To protect Category 1 paddocks, Paul says farmers can use Category 3 paddocks as a sacrifice area to hold stock and to feed supplement in, or use a Successful pasture recovery after feed pad if available. drought has three stages: current “When it rains, keep managing management in dry conditions; Category 1 paddocks carefully actions to be taken when for the next three-four weeks rain comes, and a renewal as things green up. Putting programme. animals on too soon can Paul Hames, who is kill them. Wait until the Bay of Plenty and ryegrass tillers have Waikato area manager three leaves before for Barenbrug grazing any new Agriseeds, says the growth post-rain.” first step is to assess all Category 2 paddocks on the farm, paddocks, in the and divide them into meantime, should be three categories. monitored. “Most important are the Category 1 “If you pull plants Back in the green – paddocks, ones you think apart, green in the base careful management will recover. Category 2 is of the tiller means there’s now will help grass for those which might survive; hope,” says Paul. “Wait until it recover after rain. Category 3 is paddocks past the rains, then they will become either point of no return.” Category 1 or 3.” Paul says Category 1 paddocks are vital Category 3 paddocks need to be re-sown. for drought recovery, because after rain they will be These are pastures coming out of summer crop or the first to start providing feed. And two golden rules those which have less than 50 per cent grass cover apply to these paddocks – look after them while it’s remaining; contain a high level of weeds; have dry, and be patient with grazing after it rains. been damaged by insects; or been used as sacrifice It’s critical not to overgraze these pastures during paddock. the dry, because ryegrass plants store all the energy “A plan needs to be developed for these, which they need for survival and regrowth in the basal stem is typically a mix of winter feed and pasture – not below it. renewal, and may include full renewal, sprayPaul says grazing too close to the ground depletes drilling and undersowing.” these energy reserves.

It’s critical not to overgraze pastures during the dry, because ryegrass plants store all energy they need for survival and regrowth in the basal stem – not below it.

Five years at the top of the FVI For the last five years Trojan’s had DairyNZ’s top Forage Value Index rating for a diploid perennial ryegrass – a feat unmatched by any other grass. Combined with persistence, insect control and animal health, Trojan is in a league of its own.

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Page 34

ENVIRO FRIENDLY FARMING

Page 35

Study: fodder beet doesn’t need so much fert With planning for next season production and cropping underway, a new study to determine the best way to grow fodder beet offers some interesting food for thought. The new research shows it is possible to reduce traditional fertiliser recommendations for growing fodder beet – sometimes by significantly more than half the usual amount – with no effect on crop yield or quality. Plant & Food Research, along with industry partners, recently completed a three-year study with assistance from the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Sustainable Farming Fund (now superseded by Sustainable Food & Fibre Futures) to find the best way to the popular supplementary feed crop for livestock in NZ. Researchers conducted a series of nitrogen, potassium and boron trials to establish whether standard management practices could be recommended for varying soil types and locations. “Much of our information about the nutrient requirements of fodder beet came from European sugar beet guidelines – for example, recommending high rates of potassium to support high yield,” says P&FR senior scientist John de Ruiter. “However, in every trial we conducted across many NZ soil types we were able to lower the potassium applications to 100kg per hectare without yield loss

when compared to the standard rate of 350kg/ha.” Researchers also found the maximum plant response to nitrogen was achieved at 100kg per hectare – half the industry standard of 200kg/ha. “I was surprised that we could bring nitrogen fertiliser rates down that much,” says John.

N reduction

“This means a reduction in the amount of nitrogen in the feed and a reduction in the amount of nitrogen returned to soil through excretion, which is a good result for the environment – and is also a big saving for farmers.” Symptoms of boron deficiency (hollow bulbs) occur on some soil types. However trials with varying rates and timing of boron fertiliser didn’t show any effects on yield or plant health. “Basal applications of boron at sowing are still recommended to avoid any potential boron limitations,” says John. Researchers also examined diseases in fodder beet crops. “When fodder beet first regained popular use 15 years ago, the disease incidence was low, and there was great potential for fodder beet as a winter crop. “But in recent seasons the incidence of fungal and viral diseases have hit hard with a major reduction in paddock yields,” says John. “While there’s not much that can be done about viruses, some control of fungal diseases is possible. However, few chemicals for fungal control are

registered for use in NZ.” John says experiments with timing and rates of fungicide application did not give conclusive results “so more work on the epidemiology and control of fodder beet diseases is needed”. John says fodder beet has gained momentum in NZ’s dairy industry as a winter feed as farmers look to benefit from its high yield potential and good feed quality characteristics. Read this story in full at: www.coastandcountrynews.co.nz

The new study gives valuable and practical information for growing fodder beet in NZ

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SENIOR LIVING

Page 36

Bromeliad obsession keeps you young Visit Roger Allen’s spectacular Plummers Point property in the Western Bay of Plenty and you are carried off into a living botanical compendium of bromeliads – all types and everywhere. “It’s not an interest, it’s an obsession,” confesses Roger. “Plants eat into your soul, and it follows you until death.” And, he points out, bromeliad lovers are no more obsessive than golfers. “There are some people who go out and hit golf balls every day. Would you believe it? But I shouldn’t make judgements.” His fascination with plants began with cacti at age five. “And when I married and we were moving from Christchurch to Waikato, my cacti collection was the first thing on the truck.” The obsession became an occupation. Seventy-five years later he’s a commercial flower grower producing hydrangea for the local market. “But bromeliads are an unprofessional attraction.” In fact, it has taken Roger 10 years to grow a Vriesea Bromeliad from seed. It’s a plant of 30cm or 40cm with lime green foliage giving way to the subtle pink of a sunset. “Technically, I can’t register it until it flowers,” says Roger. “That could be another two years. But I have given it a name anyway.”

And that name is Audrey Hewson, a gardener in her nineties. “She’s a dear friend who has been very generous in giving me plants and who didn’t have a very good year last year.” Now that friendship and generosity has been rewarded, and those difficult times have eased. Roger says bromeliads are very easy to care for; the Vriesea is spineless, has spectacular flowers and very attractive foliage. The challenge for the professional comes with hybridising, breeding new bromeliads and growing them to show quality. And beyond the vast shade clothes that protect his income, and that blaze of hydrangea colour, bromeliads rule in this subtropical hideaway. “It actually keeps you young. An interest in a garden keeps you physical, keeps your mind alert and you young…yes, young, young.” During the year Roger displays his bromeliads and shares his gardening wisdom at the Tauranga bromeliad show in February, and he also volunteers at the Te Puna quarry garden. “My guess is the average age of the quarry volunteers is about 85, which speaks for itself. They are brilliant.” Roger likes to surround himself with likeminded people, gardening people preferably. And his property was one of the most popular on the last Tauranga Garden and Art Festival garden trail. “Some people did come into the garden and say: ‘Goodness gracious, this person is obsessed’. They’re right. And it’s not going to change.” But doesn’t breeding plants that take 10 to 12 years to flower and register cut into a man’s life? “No. that’s why it keeps you young. You have to hang around for these things,” says the lifelong horticulturalist. Hunter Wells

Roger Allen’s Plummers Point garden features rare, unusual and specialised types of bromeliads. Photo: Daniel Hines.

  

    

   

          

     —        — — — —  - —

      -  - -   -  -    

                              

                                                

                  

     

COUNTRY LIVING

Page 37

Blueberries, lavender and a better lifestyle Like us on Facebook

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A desire for a better work-life balance led Hamilton couple Samantha Wang and Benjamin Jeng to reassess in their lives in 2014. As owners of a lifestyle block in Newstead, they already had a field of overgrown blueberry bushes that had gone wild from a previous owner’s enterprise, and the rest of the site was undeveloped and ripe for change. From 2012, Ben had been working as a web designer in Auckland and Samantha stayed in Hamilton with the children and managed the property. Looking to their land to provide an income, they had already pruned the blueberry bushes right back, as they needed around five years to come into fruit again. “We didn’t like being apart, and began to look at how we could change things,” says Samantha. Samantha’s sister, Tracey, a qualified skincare specialist, suggested they grew lavender. The couple took things very slowly, learning as they went, planting a few hundred bushes at a time. Ben used a now-iconic purple tractor to prepare the land, and the first plants were planted by hand “Our soils can be wet, and we raise the beds for the lavender to thrive, as it doesn’t like wet roots.” Three types of lavender bushes are grown, and each with a distinctive property and use. There is a distillery onsite used to produce lavender essential oil and floral water (pure hydrosol). Tracey uses her skills to invent quality skincare products, while Samantha concentrates on design and presentation and Ben carries out much of the outside work. From December through to early-February the lavender blooms, and the blueberries fruit under seasonally-placed bird netting. Visitors enjoy pickyour-own blueberries and lavender, snacks at the food caravan, and browse beautiful lavender and blueberry products in the shop. “Our goal is to produce quality New Zealand-grown and New Zealand-made products.” During winter the team concentrate on maintenance and the development and manufacture of new products. Coming up with products that use both blueberries and lavender is always under discussion. Blueberry jam with a hint of edible lavender is a recent innovation. Rosemary, with its therapeutic benefits, is also being introduced into the range, with essential oil being distilled from plants grown on the property. “We want to keep things small but viable and have time to design more quality products,” says Samantha. “We have found the balance we were looking for.” More information is at: www.lavenderbackyard.co.nz Catherine Fry

A bee naturally pollinating the lavender.

0800 109 202

www.ecoworld.co.nz

Page 38

COUNTRY LIVING

Breeding the future of our bee industry

While the focus is breeding queen bees, it Rob Atkinson has owned bee comes hand-in-hand with a sellable hives since he was 12 years byproduct: 15 tonnes of honey a year. “I’ve been interested in bees old, when growing up for as long as I can remember,” on a sheep and beef says Rob. “I bought my first two hives from a local farm in Otorohanga. beekeeper in Te Kuiti.” Today he manages Rob’s teenage job was working as a gopher and up to 500 hives of his box-mover for Orini Honey, own around the region, during which time he gained a taste for commercial based out of his “I started a 30-acre block in his The larger queen bee, marked by the beekeeping. degree in zoology and silver/green dot on her body. entomology at Massey hometown.

University, but dropped out in the late-1980s and worked for Waitomo Honey in Te Kuiti.” After 25 years working under the tutelage of the owner John Bass, learning on the job, Rob was running the company’s breeding programme by the time Mr Bassett retired in 2009. Rob bought out the breeding side of the business, and moved the operation to his Otorohanga block. “I didn’t want a massive business with lots of staff and

debt, so I was happy to do the bees during summer, and I pregnancy-scan sheep and goats in winter.” In order to breed queens, Rob has to manipulate the hives to produce more queens by manually taking one-day-old larvae and grafting them into a “queen cup” and adding several to other hives that are queen-less, or their queen is safely locked up in the box below and can’t kill the introduced queen larvae. “The workers are fooled into thinking they

Smoke acts by interfering with the bees’ sense of smell, so they can no longer detect low concentrations of pheromones they release to transmit a perceived threat to the rest of the bees in the hive. All photos: Catherine Fry.

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COUNTRY LIVING

Page 39

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Beekeeper Rob Atkinson puffing smoke around the bees before opening the hive. need to feed these larvae with royal jelly, and produce a new queen,” says Rob. It takes 10 days from grafting for a new queen to be ready to sell. They are removed as formed whitecoloured bees, still in their queen cup two days after hatching, and picked up by beekeepers to be introduced to a hive that’s been split to stop swarming. “We don’t process the honey we produce ourselves, it just goes in drums to a packer and is either bush blend or pastoral honey,” says Rob. And the demand for quality queen bees stays high with 25,000 queens sold from Rob’s hives in the 2018

The inside of a bee hive. season. With the future of bees and their importance in our food chain such a hot topic, it is good to see NZ businesses breeding and distributing them.

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Time, the great healer – Part 1 I recently spoke with a client who I first helped more than two years ago. He’s an ex-farmer who was having real trouble with osteoarthritis in his knees. Realistically, surgery was his only option. My role as a nutritional medicine practitioner is to identify the dietary and supplement options that can help. There are many factors that can cause osteoarthritis. Genetics, injury, occupation and nutrition all play a part. Direct injury to joints can set off a faulty biochemical chain that finishes with destruction of cartilage-secreting cells called chondrocytes, resulting in cartilage loss. Interestingly, the same basic faulty biochemistry is also triggered by nutritional factors. A deficiency in antioxidants especially those made by the trace minerals selenium, zinc, copper and manganese leave chondrocytes

exposed to oxidative stress, a technical term to describe free radical damage. The end result is always the same. Chondrocytes are damaged or die, meaning cartilage cannot be repaired. Eventually cartilage thins, often replaced by bony spurs as our bone survival mechanism kicks in. The body then tries to heal the problem with inflammation, which just makes it worse. Two years ago I created a personalised nutritional support programme for my client. This included dietary recommendation to support cartilage and to reduce inflammation. We added supplements, initially at higher doses. This included my OA support

supplement, which is a little different to most. While it includes glucosamine the real hero is the 800mg-1600mg of high grade chondroitin sulphate supported by meaningful amounts of curcumin from turmeric and fish oils to reduce inflammation This week I emailed him to ask how he was doing. His response was that he thinks he has delayed future surgery by 10 years. 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 all new newsletter at: www.abundant.co.nz.

Abundant Health

LIFESTYLE FARMING

Page 40

Rural Subdivision retained for now in Matamata-Piako It’s been about seven years since the subdivision rules were rewritten in the Matamata-Piako district.

The final rules were settled after a public consultation period and a lengthy appeal to the Environment Court. We are mindful that, with a 10-year review period, this process will start again before too long – so be aware.

• Ideal for Cattle Troughs • High Flow • Side/Bottom Mount •• Ideal for CattletoTroughs Detatches Clean • High Flow •• Compact/Robust Side/Bottom Mount • Detatches to Clean • Compact/Robust

In recent years many councils in the Waikato/BOP regions have moved to severely restrict smaller rural and lifestyle blocks. Most now have a minimum rural block size of 40ha. This is driven largely by Waikato Regional Council, which is pushing to limit lifestyle blocks under the current Waikato District Plan review. If these overtures are successful, most applications for lifestyle blocks will become noncomplying in that district and others. This doesn’t mean they’re prohibited but, with the process being much more complex and very costly – including neighbour’s consent requirements – my advice is generally to not bother with this. But for a successful appeal to the courts last time around, challenging this approach,

those landowners in the MatamataPiako District would have faced similar restrictions. The blanket 40ha approach would not have catered for varying land use such as poultry and orchards, apparently focussing solely on largescale dairy operations. MatamataPiako instead took a ‘land quality’ approach, allowing properties with ‘general quality’ land to subdivide down to a 20ha size, whereas ‘high quality’ land requires 40ha in general. In addition, each title that existed on December 4, 2013, will qualify for an application to subdivide one block of 8ha or more, provided a balance lot can be left of at least 20ha in size. We

see this as providing an opportunity for those people that haven’t already subdivided, to sever a small rural lot from their farm for diversification or family settlement. It’s not uncommon to subdivide a property and sell parts to each neighbour, perhaps retaining the house and some land – possibly for retirement. This rule often allows them the flexibility to do this, avoiding expensive ‘noncomplying’ applications that have no certainty of approval. Brent Trail, managing director of Surveying Services, specialises in resource consent applications for subdivisions across the Waikato, Hauraki and Bay of Plenty. Call 021 035 7226. Or email: btrail@surveyingservices.co.nz

More plants that can be poisonous for livestock

With March usually bringing hot, dry profound heart and lung disease. conditions those on the land could see an Ragwort (Senecio jacobaea): Occurs increase in livestock poisonings from plants. at times of feed shortage, heavy pasture Here’s another list of plants that people infestation and intake of contaminated hay. • Ideal for • Id C need to keep stock away from. Cattle, sheep, horses and pigs are vulnerable. Hig Nightshade (Solanum nigrum): Plants are The main finding • is chronic wasting, mainly found in patches under areas of shade such • Side/Bo • through severe liver damage. as hedgerows. Toxicity has been noted in • Redroot (Amaranthus retroflexus): Detatch • goats and cattle, with calves mainly affected. Sourced from weed overgrowth in yards and • Comp Alkaloid and cyanide toxins produce failed crop paddocks. Cattle, sheep and pigs neurological signs and death from asphyxia are affected. Signs include lethargy, anorexia, and heart failure. wasting with frequent urination. Ngaio (Myoporum laetum): Access is Rhododendron (Azalea and by grazing scrubby or bush areas and fallen branches. Rhododendron spp): All parts are toxic especially the Cattle and sheep are most vulnerable. Clinical signs leaves from this common garden shrub. Sheep, goats, range from skin damage due to liver insults through to horses and cattle are commonly affected. Signs include sudden death with bleeding. spectacular vomiting and intense abdominal pain, Oleander (Nerium oleander): Found in gardens as slowing heart rate, convulsions and coma before death. an ornamental shrub, just a few leaves/pruning waste Tutu (Coriaria arborea): Found by animals near thrown over the fence is enough to be lethal. Affected bush blocks when grazing scrubby or bush areas, and species include cattle, sheep, horses and camelids. transporting stock along roadsides. Cattle, sheep and Toxicity results from several cardiac glycosides, notably horses are affected. Sudden death results with lung oleandrin and nerine. Affected stock show evidence congestion the main finding of gut pain and difficulty breathing associated with Yew (Taxus spp): Garden waste access may occur or stock grazing near trees or clippings. Cattle, sheep, horses and camelids are susceptible. All parts of this tree are poisonous. Profound breathing difficulty is experienced and sudden death is a result. If you have questions about possible toxins on your property, contact your local vet, before running the risk of exposing stock to the source. Vets are well placed to investigate any suspicious cases and help to prevent future poisonings.

AVOCADOS

Page 41

Book in mulch service for autumn now! Pruning season is just around the corner, so now is the perfect time for growers to make plans about the big clean-up afterwards.

D6 Contracting Ltd has the purpose-built machinery to mulch avocado prunings right where they fall, enabling those prunings to be mulched into the ground underneath

the tree, says owner Darcy Ewart. “This takes away a huge amount of manual labour for the grower, where traditionally prunings have been hand fed into a chipper and mulched that way,” says Darcy. “It’s also a much safer practice for growers, taking away any health and safety risk involved with working with hand-fed chippers.” The purpose-built mulcher that Darcy uses works efficiently and gets

the job done fast, getting into orchards and underneath trees where some machines may not be able to access. “The mulcher has also proven to be popular with mulching shelterbelt trimmings and also land clearing,” says Darcy. “We also have a purpose-built spreader bucket to spread mulch in and around orchards. This is a hit with our clients because it takes away hours of manual labour and the job is done pretty quick – making it an efficient, economical option for growers. D6 Contracting can also supply and deliver mulch in and around the Bay of Plenty. To book your orchard in, or discuss your orchard’s needs, see D6 Contracting Ltd’s advert with contact details on this page.

The purpose-built bobcat mulches avocado prunings right where they fall, enabling prunings to be mulched into the ground underneath the tree.

D6 Contracting Ltd owner Darcy Ewart with the purpose-built bobcat with forestry mulcher attachment.

‘Pool 1’ results announced Avocado packer and exporter Just Avocados has finalised their ‘Early season pool’ for the 2019-2020 export season, resulting in a healthy return to their supplying growers reflective of their harvest strategies. “Price stability across sizes has been primarily driven by great progress in Asia and specifically Korea taking the majority of the early large fruit with Thailand and Taiwan having a significant impact in some of our middle and sm ller sizes,” says Jacob Darling, who is general manager of sales and marketing for Darling Group and avocado packer and exporter Just Avocados. Jacob says a combination of good customer channels and marketing activity has helped contribute to 45 per cent of Just Avocados’ export volume being consumed across Asia. “We put together a range of innovations for Asia from packaging to providing a channel for buyers and consumers to instantly access our story and information about avocados using their smartphones. These aspects have greatly contributed to our point of difference in the marketplace.”

Fruit quality

Fruit quality was also improved from the 2018-2019 season. “The combination of better growing conditions and a focused approach to orchard management and supply chain efficiency in market goes a long way to improving ome of our historic challenges, says Jacob. Just Avocados’ focus for communicating returns has been on the concept of ‘total orchard gate return’. “As an industry we can’t continue to believe that export per tray orchard gate return is the only element that contributes to probability.” Just Avocados has also reviewed their payment reporting to also show grower returns in dollars per hectare. “We look forward to sitting down with each grower and going through the new payment report, which will assist in understanding what impacts your return and how our model puts growers in the best possible position for orchard probability,” says Jacob. “While we are an export-based business, we recognise the importance of addressing all events that contribute to grower profit per hectare such as scale, consistency, packout, the application of best practice in genetics, pruning, nutrition and harvest strategy.

Early harvest strategy

“Our early harvest strategy has allowed us to get a significant number of our early growers’ fruit off, which has contributed to high packouts and will assist in increasing consistency of return crop year-on-year.” Returns from the local market are also an important contributor to total orchard gate return. “The strategic alignment between Just Avocados and domestic marketer Zeafruit has a positive outcome for growers as we have utilised the strengths of each business to maximise results. “With an integrated model from growing, packing, distribution and marketing, Just Avocados has led the way in offering a full package for growers from class three returns to export returns.”

THE AVOCADO INDUSTRY IS CHANGING. ARE YOU? Find out more about a sustainable future for your orchard.

Grower Services Bay of Plenty

027 257 5028 kyra@justavocados.co.nz

John Emett

Grower Services Northland and

South Auckland 027 476 9087 john@justavocados.co.nz

Download your profitability guide at thetruthaboutOGR.co.nz

@justavocados www.justavocados.co.nz

AVOCADOS

Page 42

When will it rain? I write this column while racing between water valves, pump pressure gauges and sprinkler heads that need regular cleaning.

I look back at the technology we’ve quietly seen evolve from drippers to compensated sprinklers, from manual valves to automated solar-powered and battery-powered valves with computer controlled systems measuring the water use, reporting the water use and generally making us more efficient with it. This is still technology more to come. Currently, we are soaking our root zone weekly for 48 hours then stopping. Yes, it has been dry. We need rain and they say rain is on its way. On contoured land the

impact of this dry is really being felt. It’s starting to impact fruit size, tree vigour and leaf quality. I’m seeing fruit drop. Now fruit drop is a natural process which happens in many heavy cropping years. The first drop occurred during February and you can expect another drop after the rains arrive. This moisture will expand the fruit and push it off its stem. And it can impact on the crop load. Last month I wrote about planning. I see a similar tone from the industry, however in regard to pruning during the heat – be very careful. We won’t start until we see some drop in

the heat and even some moisture. When the rains arrive we want to get tree vigour. So get fertiliser on quickly when it rains; even put it on in the rain. Adding a bit more nitrogen then will also be helpful. Lastly, start talking to you fruit marketer about their plans for next year. I know we still have a few months to wrap up but the early bird gets the worm and with good planning you can be in that position. Compliance is again at the forefront and AAL is working closely to ensure fruit is suitable for presenting to all export and local markets.

NZ free of Queensland fruit fly agai After nearly a year, Biosecurity New Zealand has ended its Northcote-based fruit fly detection operation at a cost of nearly $18 million. But Biosecurity NZ spokesperson Dr Cath Duthie says while this is considerable sum of money, when you balance this with the significant management and trade impacts on New Zealand’s multi-billion dollar horticulture industry by an incursion of this pest, “it’s a sound investment”. The operation is the second fully cost-shared biosecurity response under the Government Industry Agreement and the horticulture industry has been a huge contributor to the effectiveness of the operation. Since February 2019, there were 10 separate findings of solitary Queensland fruit flies through surveillance trapping in the Northcote area. Cath says six months has now passed since a fly was last trapped in the area. “And this, along with an

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intensive baiting programme throughout the spring and the inspection of hundreds of kilograms of fruit without a find, has given us confidence there i currently no breeding population of the Queensland fruit fly in Northcote. We can once again declare that NZ is free of the Queensland fruit fly. As a result, says the Controlled Area has now been lifted and there are no longer restrictions on moving fruit, vegetables and green waste. But Cath says NZ’s nationwide routine surveillance continues with a system of 7800 fruit fly traps spread nationwide with more than 4600 traps in the Auckland area. “These traps are set for three exotic fruit fly species of concern: the Queensland fruit fly Mediterranean fruit fly and Oriental fruit flies She urges people in the North Shore to stay vigilant for signs of the fruit fly. And all New Zealanders – if they find maggots in fruit, or see an insect that could be a fruit fly – should call 0800 80 99 66

AVOCADOS

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A fresh take on the avocado industry New to avocados but no stranger to doing business, Bay of Plenty grower Nick Coughlan believes the New Zealand industry is poised for a major shake-up.

information supplied by an independent monitor he gets in every three weeks.Management changes are already showing encouraging signs of success. In their firs season the orchard produced 6400 trays, and the second season of 2018-2019 generated more than 10,000 trays from 150 bins. That equated to close to 20 tonne/ha. This season, the couple were hoping to pick about 140 bins. “I’d like to think we can become more consistent producers,” says Nick. “That’s the aim.”

opportunities. NZ’ industry has got its challenges but Avoco, through its Avanza brand, has done well in

positioning itself as our country’s most recognised and reliable supplier of NZ origin avocados.”

The former police detective-turned-businessman and grower believes change is coming, and it’s being driven by challenges facing the industry around fruit quality. Science, Nick says, is likely to play a major role in helping the industry transform. “I’m a new boy Competition in market on the block but it seems the science needs With a strong business background, to catch up a lot more in our industry Nick is realistic about the competitive and give us more solutions.” challenges lying ahead for He points to the kiwifruit exporters. However, he believes industry’s response to vineAvoco is well-placed to weather killing disease Psa as an any storm. example of how science can “There’s competition in any lead to positive change. industry but I agree with the “I’m not advocating that strategy they have to actively we should ever want to work across several markets experience a Psa-equivalent to build a platform for future in our industry but those growth in Asia, when larger events certainly drive change crop volumes exceed Australian through necessity. I can see that market demand. coming with avocados and I see “There’s potential for long-term that as a good thing.” supply at sustainable values in a Nick and his wife Louise, an range of markets. By delivering accountant, are in their third Nick Coughlan is a former police consistently good quality fruit season on their Stewart Rd orchard detective-turned-businessman managed in a disciplined way, we in Whakamarama, north of and avocado grower. can make the most of these future Tauranga. While still relatively new to the craft of growing avocados, their vast business experience in other fields means they’re not afraid to ask tough questions or search for new or better ways of doing things.

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“I see a lot of opportunity because the industry is still in its infancy in NZ,” says Nick. “It will grow and the services, science and suppliers wrapped around it will grow with it.” Low-lying and only about 10 metres above sea level at the end of Stewart Rd, the 3ha orchard had changed hands several times and was under-performing when the couple leased it in 2017. Nick sought the advice of consultants and packhouse reps – people he still relies on for their technical know-how. “I listen to Lyndsey Heard and people like Therese Temple from Apata, which is our preferred packhouse partner.” Most of the 320 avocado trees on the property are more than 30 years old and are surrounded by established shelter. Previous owners had let the trees grow high and low, but on the advice of experts, Nick has agreed to “take the tops off” so they can be picked from an 8m hydralada. Low-hanging branches were also removed. “We did a major prune in April after the last crop came off and we’ll do a big prune every year now.” He installed irrigation under every tree in the winter of 2018 and believes it helps to stop his trees become heat-stressed during summer. He’s also quick to respond to pest threats, based on the

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RURAL HOMES & BUILDINGS

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Living the rural dream in Raglan The modern four-bedroom home of Ken and Christine Savill. All photos: Catherine Fry.

When Ken and Christine Savill sold their 289 hectare drystock farm in Arohena near Te Awamutu, it took them some time – and an open-minded search of the whole Waikato region – before they settled on a 27ha block outside Raglan. Christine admits that “the view sold it”, and while Ken agrees, he would have “liked a bit more land”. The couple have built a three-bedroom, off-grid home on an elevated peninsula of their land, with a beautiful view back up the Opotoru Estuary towards Raglan. Landscaping and the area around the 10m by 4m ozone pool is still to be completed, but the house is finished The house has been built to maintain an even temperature throughout the seasons. “We chose black clay bricks, a dark roof, and have insulated all the walls, interior and exterior, and the ceiling with wool insulation,” says Christine.

The view up Opotoru Estuary from Ken and Christine Savill’s living area. “The floating concrete pad is insulated with polystyrene, and the abundance of extra height windows are double-glazed.” The main living areas are in one ‘wing’ and the ‘bedroom wing’ extends further, effectively shielding the north-facing covered portico and deck from the notorious Raglan westerlies. The house is completely off-grid, with a septic tank, solar power, bottled gas, and roof water with a farm spring top-up filling two 30,000L concrete tanks. The gas runs the hot water, stove and oven, and an attractive gas fire in the media room. The heat is ducted to other rooms. “We’ve got 30 solar panels on the roof, with a big hub in the garage, where the batteries continually charge,” says Ken. “It’s designed to meet our electricity needs, but there’s a petrol generator that kicks in

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Retired farmers Ken and Christine Savill with their farm dogs on their 27ha block outside Raglan. automatically if required.” With amazing views in every direction, extensive decking has been built on every aspect except the west, maximising the outdoor living options. The modern interior uses on trend black-and-white fittings in the kitchen and bathrooms, with accents of light timber. Areas of vertical cedar shiplap break up the black bricks externally, and the decking will be stained to match. Ken grazes 65 Friesian bull calves on the rolling land. He’s had to dig fence post holes by hand, when his post borer couldn’t cope with the hard clay soils. Next, Ken and Christine will be working on landscaping, fencing waterways, and planting their gullies. In their spare time, they enjoy kayaking on the estuary, and Ken works his competition heading/ Huntaway dogs. Catherine Fry

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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

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March 5 How to Create an Unfenced Sanctuary, 6pm, Ohope, free. See: tinyurl.com/uhznht8

March 7 Crop Swap, 10am-11am, 14 Jocelyn St, Katikati. Veges, fruit, seeds, baking, books, eggs, etc all welcome. Ph 07 549 4522. Worm Composting Workshop, 1-3pm, Historic Village, 17th Ave, Tauranga (TCC residents only), $43. See: tinyurl.com/v6fbu89

March 7-8 Plant Sale, 9.30am-3pm, Hamilton Gardens.

March 8 Hamilton Dahlia Show, 11.30am-3.30pm, Hamilton Gardens.

March 9

March 15

March 26

March 29

Seed Saving, 5.30pm, near Whatakane, koha. See: tinyurl.com/ yx2gspx6

Rongoa Maori Medicine Workshop, 10am-noon, Welcome Bay, Tauranga, $20. See: tinyurl.com/ quahedx Quarry Day, 10am-4pm, Te Puna Quarry Park, off SH2 near Tauranga.

Worm Farming, 6-8pm, Te Tahi St, Whakatane, free. See: tinyurl.com/ wdhox9f Waste Free Living Workshop with Kate Meads, 6.30pm, Historic Village Cinema, Tauranga, $25. See: tinyurl.com/vdfl4o Economy & Climate Change Forum, 7pm, Holy Trinity Church, Tauranga, $10. See: tinyurl.com/yx6of8l3

The Great Pumpkin Carnival, 10am-2pm, Hamilton Gardens, free.

March 10 Setting up a Sustainable Home & Garden, 6.30pm, Katikati Community Centre, $17. See: tinyurl. com/y27fl6l

March 12 Natural Fabric Dyes, 1-3pm, Merritt St, Whakatane, $25. See: tinyurl.com/uxlq3q4

March 14 Back to Basics Herbal Medicine, 10am3pm, Katikati, $55. See: tinyurl.com/y27fl6l

March 14-15 Sustainable Homes & Gardens Ramble, 9am5pm, self-drive, free. See: tinyurl.com/vcoaoho Rotorua Walking Festival, from 8am both days. Choose from 10km-42km events. See: www. rotoruawalkingfestival. org.nz

March 17 DIY Personal Care Products, 6.30pm, Katikati Community Centre, $23. See: tinyurl.com/y27fl6l Whakatane District Climate Change Project, drop in for a chat from 10am-2pm, VW Cafe, Whakatane.

March 19 Composting, 6-8pm, Te Tahi St, Whakatane, free. See: tinyurl.com/tacp7de

March 22 Organic Farm Open Day, 11am-3pm, Omanawa (near Tauranga), $5. Guided tours at noon and 2pm. See: tinyurl. com/w92grqu

March 23 Community Composting, 3-8pm, Katikati, free. See: tinyurl.com/wxwyen8

March 28 Begin a Garden Workshop, 9am12.30pm, Papamoa Hills (near Tauranga), $50. See: craftygatherer.co.nz Home Composting Workshop, 1.30pm, Community Gardens Taupo or Awhi Farm Turangi, free. See: tinyurl.com/y6ffz834 Magic Organic Farming Potions, 3-4.30pm, Omanawa (near Tauranga), $30. See: tinyurl.com/u9p2oqq

March 28-April 19 Echo Walking Festival, Coromandel to Kaimai Range. See: www. echowalkfest.org.nz

March 31 Bird Call Identification, 6-7.30pm, Community Centre, Maketu (near Te Puke). See: tinyurl.com/ vtckmza Make Sustainable House Cleaners, 6.30pm, Katikati Community Centre, $20. See: tinyurl. com/y27fl6l

April 1 Growing Food with Supergrans, 10-11.30am, Katikati, free. Ph 07 549 4522.

April 3-4 BOP Orchid Show, 10am4pm, Memorial Hall, Te Puke, $3. Ph 07 573 9710.

April 4 Crop Swap, 10am-11am, 14 Jocelyn St, Katikati. Veges, fruit, seeds, baking, books, eggs, etc all welcome. Ph 07 549 4522.

April 4-5 Plant Sale, 9.30am-3pm, Hamilton Gardens.

Moves to grow and educate medicinal cannabis industry As the Governments moves to put in place regulations to allow local cultivation and manufacture of medicinal cannabis products in New Zealand this year, the emerging industry is aiming to educate itself to maximise opportunities the new law will bring. The country’s first international medicinal cannabis summit, MedCan 2020, is on March 18-19 in Auckland with the purpose to educate and enable the NZ medicinal cannabis sector. BioTechNZ is hosting the forum duringtwo

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days, with a programme focusing on medicine, industry, science and technology. The event is expected to bring together leading experts, scientists, healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, industry, investors, policymakers, thought leaders, academics, researchers, government representatives, patients and the general public to share first-hand insights and up-to-date information about the world of medicinal cannabis. A summit advisory group, including representatives from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment and Crown entity Callaghan Innovation,

has been established. Speakers will include Medical Cannabis Research Australia’s medical scientist Sharlene Mavor to AusCann CEO Ido Kanyon to Taurangabased Holistic Vets director and veterinarian Liza Schneider, Plant & Food chief scientist Dr Richard Newcomb to TV presenter/ influencer Katy Thomas and many more Meanwhile, Minister of Health Dr David Clark says new regulations, which come into effect on April 1, set out the quality and licensing requirements for manufacturing and distributing medicinal cannabis. For more information on the summit, see: www.medcansummit.co.nz

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS Zane Pipe, aged 3, is enjoying being part of milking time in Tauranga, but the first job is to get those cows into the shed.

Passionate about ALL animals, Kenzie Holdem, aged 7, and her lamb ‘Rosemary’ win the Elliott Shield Overall Champion Lamb at an Ag Day in Tokoroa.

Joven Takitimu, 20 months old, is a first-year calf rearer in Honikiwi, Otorohanga, helping his family feed calves.

Holly, aged 2, is feeling super strong!

BS! PRIZandEdetUailsPcan beFemOaileRd (highGresRolutioAn jpgy,s)POto Box 240,

Pictures to Coast & Countr untry Camera” or posted every entry. kathy@thesun.co.nz “Co e a name, address and phone number with Tauranga. Please includ

Uncle Tony takes the grandkids for a spin in his modified golf cart on Christm as Day on the farm in King Country.