When Judy Fentress watched her ďŹ rst duck egg hatch, she found her calling. Thirty years on, she has 21 walk-in aviaries where she nurses about 600 birds a year back to health. Read more about Judy, and her much loved pet duck Mrs P on page 4. Photo: Catherine Fry.
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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS
New Year optimism Writing this, it’s mid-December after a blur of fire, politics and pandemic that was 2020.
www.coastandcountrynews.co.nz
It’s been a dumpster fire that I hope we can say goodbye to, by sitting around it with a nice cold beer for the New Year. In many ways, working in New Zealand’s primary industries was a great place to be this year. But the industry certainly wasn’t immune to incredibly unique challenges that were impossible to plan for, such as the prospect of not having enough people to pick the fruit or harvest the feed. Then we learn that life’s usual pitfalls and personal tragedies don’t pause for a pandemic. All very grim – so we have made our first paper, while the year is still fresh and hopeful, a positive one. We look at the impressive results that come from people following their passions, from a potter who built a railway on page 11 to a 48-year-old machinery collection in this month’s Tractor Attraction on page 14-15.
The environment is a running theme across our features but don’t worry, this is a positive topic, too. On page 20, we learn from Pukekauri Farms in Katikati that if you know your numbers, your sheep or beef farm may actually be contributing to cooling the climate, not warming it up. Waikato researchers look at how to keep carbon in the soil and out of the air on page 19, and how using diffusing gradient thin-films to measure thin-fi nitrate in waterways may replace the need to send samples away, meaning more accurate, real time readings – read more on page 27. In his column on 18 Bill Webb page 18, of Bill Webb’s Feed Solutions says the season is going so well, something is bound to go pear shaped. And if that doesn’t make your glass half full, meet Judy Fentress, who is saving hundreds of exotic and native birds with her friend, Mrs P the paradise duck, by her side on page 4-5. So happy reading, and here’s to a hopeful 2021. MacKenzie Dyer
COAST & COUNTRY NEWS
Page 3
Zespri partnership with illegal Chinese growers “For our other global supply markets we don’t use licenses, but instead charge a commission on the fruit that’s procured for Zespri.”
Word from growers
Matt says it’s too early to tell how much battling counterfeit growing in China has cost Zespri. “Part of it will be costed under the usual business we do in China, but we’ll work out the economics of it further down the track.” Matt says that growers in New Zealand are very interested in how
the situation progresses. “I think it’s fair to say that the issue is one at the forefront of growers’ minds. “What we are hearing from growers is that the more they learn about the scenarios and challenges in China, the more they understand our pragmatic approach to it. “We can assure growers that at this early stage, we’re prepared to look at all available options to ensure the best approach is used to slow the spread of illegal growing, and to mitigate the MacKenzie Dyer risks in China.”
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Gold kiwifruit. Photo: Shaun Mathis.
Zespri is preparing for trial partnerships with unauthorised kiwifruit growers in China in the lead up to the Chinese growing season in October. Subject to annual approval, the trial will last up to three years and is one of the approaches Zespri is using to combat illegally grown Zespri G3 kiwifruit, SunGold, in China. It is estimated that Chinese demand for Zespri fruit grown during the northern hemisphere season could reach 50,000 tonnes in five years. “We’ve always said that we think that the solution is going to be a combination of legal options, political dialogue and now, potentially commercial means, subject to the right conditions,” says Zespri International China strategic project lead Matt Crawford. “We’ve been really well-supported by the New Zealand and Chinese governments, which is encouraging as we continue to navigate through this complex issue.”
4000ha of counterfeit fruit
Zespri estimates that 4000ha of unauthorised G3 is growing in China – double the estimated amount in 2019. “Once COVID restrictions lifted in China early last year, we managed to get some of our people there to talk to growers and other people in the Chinese industry. “From this, 4000ha is our best estimate of the amount of G3 that’s in the ground in China. That’s not a perfect number, but is the best estimate we can get from around the vicinity of key growing regions.” With the next Chinese grafting season starting this month and continuing into February, Matt says Zespri is expecting more illegal G3 to be in the ground before partnership trials begin in October.
Matt “That’s Crawford. why we’re ensuring that we’re as prominent as possible in China by publically talking about our intentions and lifting the profile of plant variety rights and their importance.” Late last year, Zespri CEO Daniel Mathieson spent five weeks in China doing just that. “He had a number of encouraging engagements with both Beijing and provincial governments, raising this issue and seeking feedback on what a partnership could look like. “We wanted to send a strong message ahead of the grafting window.”
Three pronged approach
Despite the move to work with counterfeit growers, Zespri still plans on taking legal action. “We’re certainly being as active as we can in the counterfeit space. For example, we’re in the process of taking legal action against a nursery that has been involved in propagating our plant material. “Understanding how impactful legal approaches can actually be is a big part of stepping through this process, because PVR law in China can be difficult to enforce. So, we’re stepping through this pretty carefully.”
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Part of the partnership planning process is figuring out what a potential economic model with China may look like, says Matt. This will be of great interest to New Zealand growers, as 2020 licenses to grow G3 cost a minimum of $378,000 per hectare. “We’re still working through what any commercial arrangements might look like.
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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS
Thirty years of rescuing “It all started when a neighbour brought an egg around and told me to put it under a desk lamp, and I’d have a duckling,” says bird rescuer and breeder Judy Fentress. Thirty years on and the Waikato woman has 21 walk-in aviaries and is well-known for her work with injured and sick native, exotic and domestic birds. Growing up on a beef ranch in Colorado, USA, birds didn’t feature much at that time. “We had all sorts of animals around and made pets out of whatever we could lay our hands on,” says Judy. She met her husband, Dave Fentress, at high school. Both became highly qualified in their fields; ave in Information Technology, and Judy in finance. When Dave’s job took them to Switzerland, Judy relocated and they Judy with Mrs P, a native paradise duck that she hatched and hand reared, which has become a much loved pet. All Photos: Catherine Fry.
lived there for 20 years “exploring and enjoying Europe by motorcycle whenever they could”. Judy ran a hedgehog rescue centre in Switzerland. As a protected animal, if they weigh less than a kilogram in the fall they are taken into care as they are unable to survive hibernation. “They had to be kept warm, fed, and awake!”
Moving to New Zealand
Following a trip to New Zealand, Judy and Dave applied for visas and had given up on the idea when a job offer came from Hamilton. “We moved to the Waikato in 1991 and found the home we are in now.” Following the encounter with the neighbour and the duck egg, which she actually managed to hatch, Judy was hooked. “I began hatching eggs for the then-president of the Otorohanga Kiwi House and spent a lot of time there.” She became a member of the Otorohanga Zoological Society, soon becoming the treasurer. “I was the treasurer for 15 years and they made me an honorary life member.” Judy developed a real love of New Zealand’s native birds during her time at the Kiwi House. “I worked with the wildlife manager at the Kiwi House and I’ll never forget the first time I got to watch a kiwi hatch.”
Her own bird rescue
When the Kiwi House stopped taking rescue birds, Judy willingly took over by starting her own bird rescue unit. Part of her one-acre property became aviaries, a shed and feed store. The carefully designed complex of 21 walk-in aviaries was built by a fencer. While vets will examine and operate on native birds for free, the cost of medications and food is down to Judy. She funds the entire venture herself, so donations are very much appreciated.
...continued
Rescued native kereru.
COAST & COUNTRY NEWS
Page 5
New Zealand birds continued...
Incubate eggs
“I also incubate eggs for people, ‘pet bird sit’ and breed birds to help fund the rescue.” She has an extensive variety of bird food on hand at all times as she never knows what breed will be brought to her next. “There’s a food chain and I respect that.” She raises mice, has a meal worm farm, keeps vegetables and fruit available and has several feed bins containing a variety of grains and seeds. There’s always beef heart, dead birds and chicken necks in the freezer for the hawks. Feeding takes a couple of hours morning and evening during peak times. Judy accommodates most natives, wild birds, domestics and abandoned pets, with the exceptions of rock pigeons and chickens. Her Department of Conservation permit allows her to hold natives Judy Fentress holding a rescued, young native spur-winged plover. and incubate native bird eggs. Records must be kept of which trained the bird for the role. bird, where they come from and where they are Judy incubated and hatched three rare New Zealand released. Natives are often ‘soft’ released at Shaw’s blue ducks that are only found here and then handBird Park in Hamilton. reared them to teenagers. They were introduced to About 500-600 birds a year pass through Judy’s fast-fl owing streams to learn how to swim and catch Bird Nursery and Rescue, with the bulk of them food, before being released as adults on DOC land arriving from October to January. near Benneydale. “I learned so much at the Kiwi House and from “At the time there were around 1200 left in New working with vets over the years, I usually know Zealand, so I felt really good that I had added three whether a bird can be saved or if it’s kinder to put more to that number.” it down.” Judy, now in her seventies, shows no sign of slowing Occasionally she keeps a rescue – and this includes down with her labour and time intensive work. a paradise duck she hatched called ‘Mrs P’, who “I do it because New Zealand has so many follows her everywhere and loves Judy as much as unique native birds that are not found anywhere Judy loves her. else in the world. “They’re so precious and they need to be protected Proud moments and saved or they will be gone forever.” A pukeko named ‘Pookster’ – which starred in Judy ask that people phone her first to arrange the first two adverts of the award-winning Genesis dropping off a rescue bird – her number is: television commercials – was born and raised at 07 823 6942. Judy’s Bird Nursery and animal trainer Mark Vette Catherine Fry
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decided to get into hospitality to try something new.” Christchurch City has plenty of sites to see and activities to do, from walking, biking or taking the gondola up the picturesque Port Hills to paddling along the Avon River and enjoying the wineries. For the kids, there’s the award-winning Margaret Mahy playground, which is the largest play project ever built in New Zealand. Getting to these intercity hotspots from Comfort Inn Riccarton is cheap and easy, as a bus stop is located directly outside. Slightly further afield activities include the WWII heritage hike along the Awaroa/Godley head track and the scenic Mt Hutt. “We’d love to see more people from the central North Island coming to see what Christchurch has to offer. “We hope to see you soon.”
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HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS/TRAVEL
Page 7
Exploring southern country NZ Adventures is a 4x4 back country tour operation currently offering six different tours covering a large portion and indeed many different aspects of the South Island. Established in the late 1990s, NZ Adventures is owned and operated by Southland based Robbie and Connie Crickett. For Robbie, the 2021 season marks 23 years of guiding motor vehicle tours along the back tracks of the South Island. NZ Adventures has access arrangements with 120 farm and station landowners throughout the South Island and has DOC concessions in Marlborough, West Coast, Canterbury and Otago conservancies along with access to several plantation forestry estates. All tours include accommodation and meals to the highest standards in some of the scenic gems of the South Island including, amongst other towns and villages, Hanmer Springs, Lake Tekapo, St Bathans and Alexandra. There are plenty of tour products on offer
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Introduced to the NZ Adventures tour lineup in 2016, 46 South is an interesting and diverse journey along an imaginary line across the southern South Island starting in Lawrence and ending in Cromwell with overnights in Gore, Invercargill, Monowai and Te Anau. Highlights are likely to centre on the diversity from the coastal scenery in the Catlins to the Fiordland beech forest and the vast open country of Northern Southland.
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HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS/TRAVEL
Coromandel animal park embraces Ronnie and Stephen James are no strangers to hard work.
and out into the great outdoors. “We teach them to love, care and respect animals and encourage them to play, learn and have fun with their imaginations. At the time of writing this, the summer season was looking to be a busy one for the park – Labour
and work to be done, just without the visitors and the income.”
The couple run Whiti Farm, The flood an animal park in Kaimarama, Ronnie and Stephen put the 10 minutes from the time in lockdown to good use, Whitianga Township. with Stephen doing digger “We’ve built this from nothing work to develop new sections of essentially,” says Ronnie of the property. the 85 acre property. But there’s nothing to “At first, e weren’t sure how for it, as a one-inif could afford to make it 100-year flood hit one a farm.” day after the park’s postWhen they first m ved lockdown reopening. to the property in 2002, While the farm gets one or Ronnie and Stephen spent two floods most winters, the fi e years draining the latest exceeded all previous swampy land, scrub clearing, benchmarks. fencing and re-grassing. Flood water was level After collecting more with the road, wiping out than 50 different species 30 per cent of the of farmyard, exotic and farm’s fences, destroying domesticated animals, Whiti Farm Park has rebounded from a year landscaping and creating an birds and reptiles, Whiti “overwhelming” mess. of challenges. Farm Park opened in It took six weeks to tidy up Weekend was twice as busy as last December 2007. to a stage where they could reopen year, and the September school – and there is still more to do. holidays “felt like the middle of “We had wonderful support A Day at Whiti Farm Christmas”. through community working bees, The farm’s fans range from age “Visitors seemed thrilled just to where people we didn’t even know, two to 82, says Ronnie. be away from the city.” locally and further afield, came to “Our park has very reasonable This comes after a challenging give us a hand.” entry prices so that its accessible year for the park. The farm also received help to people on any budget. Once Summer of 2019/2020 saw the and advice from Rural Support through the gate, you can stay as James’ contend with a drought, and Environment Waikato, who long as you like. which meant very little grass enlisted a local arborist to clear the “We don’t have a cafe and would growth, as well as feed and clogged stream. They later returned rather encourage people to pack water shortages. to help with plantings to stabilise a good old-fashioned picnic and Hot on the heels was COVID-19. the streambank. enjoy the things we did as children. “We had to carry on at the park The business had just recovered “We provide a place that gets kids and re-opened for a successful few as usual, with the same expenses out of the house, off their devices ...continued
HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS/TRAVEL
busy season continued...
weeks when Auckland went back into lockdown and visitor flows halted once again. While the farm gets great support from locals, Ronnie says out-of-towners, particularly from Auckland, are their largest market. Despite what’s behind them, brighter days are ahead. The park are the 2020 winners of the Waikato people’s choice award in the Stuff and 2degrees Business Shop Local competition,
receiving a $20,000 advertising package to promote the park. Ronnie says the money will also go towards flood repair, animal feed and further developments. The business also received a $2000 social media grant through Te Waka’s Regional Business Partners Network. Ronnie says COVID has fostered a new appreciation for the park.
“The park is benefitting from a resurgence of Kiwis exploring their backyard. “The smiles on people’s faces makes it all worthwhile.” For more information, visit: www.whitifarmpark.co.nz.
Heading up North for the holidays With international travel still compromised, it’s the perfect time to experience the beautifully sunny days and pristine beaches that a Northland summer has on offer.
great view, as the building, and therefore some of the rooms, overlooks the Whangarei Harbour. “We’re located just out of central Whangarei in Onerahi, which means wonderful views and no traffic noise. “It’s a very relaxing place. We have Staying at Comfort Hotel our own sheltered waterfall which Flames Whangarei makes is a lovely spot to enjoy a drink accessing Northland from one of our two bars. hotspots easy. “Our outdoor area has a “We provide hotel pool and private tropical convenience and gardens – the perfect comfort in a resort setting for a sunny day.” setting,” says Hotel The affordable prices Flames Whangarei general include all of the good stuff – manager Raewyn Goldberg. Comfort Hotel Flames’ like spacious rooms, unlimited “Whangarei is the gateway to tropical outdoor area. free Wi-Fi and more than 50 the far North, which is home to some Sky channels. The attached Flames of the best views, beaches and walking tracks Restaurant has a Kiwi-style menu that uses the country has to offer. locally sourced meat and produce. “There are plenty of local gems in Whangarei, too, “We’re known for a signature Tomahawk steaks, including Whangarei Falls, Abbey Caves and the Kauri but we have plenty of fresh fish dishes on the Park – all of which are free.” menu, too. Come and enjoy a relaxing Northland summer holiday.” Guests at Hotel Flames don’t have to go far for a
Visitors to Whiti Farm get close encounters with the animals.
Page 9
COUNTRY LIVING
Page 10
How to garden through drought conditions A hot, dry summer is on the cards for many parts of the country and with that comes the challenges of growing plants under drought conditions and water restrictions.
But gardeners can still have success in the garden this summer, according to Fiona Arthur from Yates. “There are a lot of plants that don’t mind minimal water so it is a matter of planning your garden a little more carefully and planting to the conditions.
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Apply a soil wetting agent which helps to breakdown the waxy, water-repellent layer that can develop on soil and potting mix. “This helps makes the most of any rain or irrigation by enabling water to penetrate down into the soil much more evenly and effectively.” Soil that contains lots of organic matter can hold more moisture “so regularly mix concentrated sources of organic matter into the soil”. Keep a bucket in your shower to collect the cool water until it runs hot, that would normally be lost down the drain. “You can then use this water on your garden.” When planting new plants, look for varieties that are described as being ‘dry tolerant’. “These plants will often have leathery, small or hairy leaves and are better adapted to growing in drier conditions. For example, succulents are easy to maintain and they
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Moisture rich
Enclosed areas and raised beds are more moisture rich than seeding into open ground. “Even a simple retaining wall built at a depth of about 25cm can keep groundwater from leaving your garden. “And fortunately many of our favourite fragrant herbs, including rosemary, sage, thyme, oregano, marjoram and bay tree, originated in a Mediterranean climate and do really well in dry conditions, so are a great choice for including in low water use gardens, including in pots, troughs and hanging baskets.” Even in dry conditions, your garden can be deliciously productive if you choose the right veges to grow – for example, beans, tomatoes (Roma and cherry), onions, garlic, capsicum, eggplant, zucchini, cucumbers, pumpkins, corn. For fruit, consider rhubarb and melons. Drought-hardy flowering plants include wildflowers, hibiscus, echinacea, gaillardia, achillea (Yarrow), gazania, allium, freesia, Californian poppies, look for new varieties in pinks and delicate lemons, everlasting daisies, delosperma, dianthus, helleborus and lavender.
COUNTRY LIVING
Page 11
The story of how a potter built a railway A railway that winds through 24 hectares of regenerated native forest, studded with sculptures and works of art from more than 400 potters who’ve lived in residence over 45 years – is what enthralls most who discover it.
Linx built in 2004 – are used. ‘Possum’, a 14-seat diesel railcar, is used when passenger numbers are lower, and ‘Elephant’ is the aptlynamed workhorse train. All of the trains have been built, and are maintained, by Driving Creek’s in-house engineers. The railway was initially built to transport raw clay from alongside the railway track to the clay works for processing – and its life as a tourist attraction didn’t begin until 1990,
Driving Creek Railway is a QEII covenanted property – and one of the Coromandel’s largest tourist attractions, which Above: Driving Creek Railway attracts at least 56,000 visitors each year. spectacular sunset views before going home again.” Cousin Derek Brickell was a structural engineer and helped with design of the tunnels and 10 bridges on the track, says John.
Scenic railway
Three switchbacks – a 180 degree bend that wends back on itself – a zig-zag track, and two spirals also feature on the hour-long ride up to EyeFull Tower, which is 167m above sea level, where passengers enjoy panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf. The railway track required complex engineering and was constructed in narrow 15 inch gauge, which Barry chose because it allowed for tight track curves and limited the amount of earthworks required on-site, says John. During the busy summer season two 34-seater carriages – Snake, built in 1992 and
The driving force behind Driving Creek Railway, potter Barry Brickell. Photo: Haru Sameshima. today draws in at least 56,000 visitors annually with its native beauty and artistic charm. And it was the vision and the driving force of the late potter Barry Brickell, who died in 2016, who brought it to life.
Passion project
Barry, a passionate conservationist, rail enthusiast and renowned potter, was awarded an OBE in 1988 for his services to pottery and ceramics; and laid the vast majority of the 2.6km railway track himself over 15 years. Driving Creek Railway general manager John Gurney says Barry worked long hours constructing the track during summer months. “He started at dawn, would head home to do some pottery around nine – before returning again to do work later in the day and into the evening. “Then he’d often enjoy some red wine and cheese that he’d stashed in the bush and soak up the
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when Barry was granted a licence to carry fare-paying passengers. The railway is only one part of the property: there is also a 1.6ha predatorfree fenced wildlife sanctuary and a space for artists and potters to live in residence. And there are plans for a museum, says John. “This was all part of Barry’s vision for the Driving Creek. “He dedicated his life to art, engineering and conservation, and we’re now implementing that vision,” says John. Josephine Reader
Page 12
LIFESTYLE FARMING
Lifestyle Blocks – are there enough to go around? Most real estate has been unaffected by the recession following COVID19. In fact, the lifestyle block market has seen a huge surge in both the number of sales and the median sale price.
With the current inability to travel overseas, many people seem to have taken the opportunity to escape the city for a lifestyle block. People fast-forwarding their plans to retire or work from home in a safe environment is one issue fuelling this migration. Another is people’s ability to borrow at a more reasonable interest rate than in previous years. According to a recent article published by REINZ, the Lifestyle Market saw a 70 per cent increase in sales volume for the three-month period to October 2020 compared with the same period last year. Over the intervening twelve months the median sale price rose by over 11 per cent. Time will tell whether there are enough properties out there to continually satisfy this hot market. My guess is that there are not, and therefore prices will continue to rise. This because, at a time when more and more Kiwis are flying home to live the lifestyle that they remember growing up with, the rural subdivision rules are continually tightening up. If the predictions of half a million Kiwis returning home in the next three years comes to fruition, there simply must be a shortage. You can bet that quite a few of them will want to live that rural lifestyle dream. A case in point for rules tightening is Waikato District, where 10 years ago the rules changed to limit qualifying farms to only subdividing one lifestyle block off the farm, rather than two. With the rules now up for review again they are destined to probably restrict such lifestyle subdivision only to blocks of 40ha or more. That means that if you have a title between 20ha and 40ha, you may have a limited opportunity to subdivide before the rule changes come in, unless
you are lucky enough to be sitting on a city or town boundary. So, what you have seen your neighbour do in recent years may no longer be possible on your side of the fence. Other districts in this region such as Hauraki, Thames-Coromandel, MatamataPiako, Western Bay, Otorohanga, South Waikato and Waitomo still offer some opportunities for subdivision and there appears to be demand for the right blocks. With a COVID-19 vaccine perhaps not being able to offer the population complete coverage for 12 months or more, the demand for lifestyle blocks is bound to stay strong, I believe. Another year or two with low interest rates and more money being spent at home, will likely see even more investment in this sector of the housing market. And if you are a landowner with an ability to subdivide, you still have a chance to join in and profit from this movement. It can take some time to get the necessary work done and have titles available for sale but there is no time like the present to get started and seek advice from the experts. Should you wish to explore your potential to subdivide, please feel free to call me and have a • Ideal for Cattle Troughs chat about the process.
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Brent Trail, managing director of Surveying Services, specialises in resource consent applications for subdivisions across the Waikato, Hauraki, Coromandel and Bay of Plenty. For further information, call: 027 499 3778 or email: btrail@surveyingservices.co.nz Brent Trail managing director cell: 027 499 3778 email: btrail@surveyingservices.co.nz address: PO Box 852, Tauranga 3140.
•
WESTERN BOP FOCUS
Page 13
Introducing NZAGA chair, Linda Flegg Linda Flegg is bringing a wealth of horticulture knowledge and a passion for governance to the top seat at the New Zealand Avocado Growers Association table.
Despite women representing 50 per cent of workers in the horticulture industry, a UMR study found women hold less than 20 per cent of leadership roles. Citrus NZ executive manager and Women in Horticulture member Rebecca Fisher says it’s excellent that Linda has been appointed as chair. “She’s not only well qualified, but she’s also a role model for women across the industry. “It is encouraging to see there is a strong pipeline to empower and support women
She was elected chair at the end of last year, following the resignation of Tony Ponder after three years in the role. Linda says she’s excited to take on the challenge of being chair and help the industry perform at its best. “I’ve been on the NZAGA board since 2016, which has made me realise that I’m very passionate about giving back to our industry by helping at a governance level,” says Linda. “I’ve been able to apply what I’ve learned at the board table to our family businesses – the benefits work both ways.”
Life on the orchard
Linda is a director of the family orchard, Morris Moore Farms, and their post-harvest company Kauripak – both in Katikati. She’s in charge of compliance across the whole business, from growing to harvesting and packing. “My parents bought a dairy farm at Kauri Point in the 50s, which has since been converted into a kiwifruit and avocado orchard with a small amount of grazing land. “They are both still very active in the business today.” After time away, Linda returned to the family business in her late 20s. “The opportunity came up to come home and help manage the post-harvest side of the business, packing avocados for 160 local growers in our area. “I’ve been working for the same business since.” Improvements to the industry structure are on the horizon. In July, the board of NZ Avocado initiated an independent structure review of their organisation and their stakeholders. “The NZ Avocado Growers Association has lost its visibility as an organisation over the last few years, which is something I’d like to improve. “We’ve never undertaken a formal review before, so it’s a real milestone for the industry. The information in the final report will give us recommendations to decide on a pathway to ensure we’re relevant for the next 20 years.” Linda says the report will help NZ Avocado, and the avocado industry as a whole, to be sustainable. “Avocado growers are really passionate about long-term sustainability – not just for the environment, but social and economic sustainability, too. “We want the industry to have a positive sustainability story by making evidence-based decisions for everything
Linda Flegg has experience across the avocado industry, from growing to picking and packing. that we do. This will allow us to achieve our goals such as leaving a light footprint on the earth, supporting strong communities and providing safe workplaces.”
A win for women
Linda says the NZAGA will be an active voice when decisions regarding the industry arise, including water availability and RMA issues. Being in the industry herself, Linda is very aware of consumer expectations. “Consumers from around the world want clean, safe and nutritious food, and see New Zealand as the provider of that. “We’re trying to emphasise these messages to all of our overseas markets.” This is the first time in its 40 year history that NZAGA has appointed a female chair.
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into leadership positions.” Linda believes that the best person should be selected for any job regardless of gender, but is happy that there are better support networks available to help women realise their potential. “I’d like to give a shout out to the initiative Women in Horticulture, who provide support for women in the industry. “More women need to put their hands up for leadership roles, so I’ve recently joined the organisation to help make this happen.” MacKenzie Dyer
FARM VEHICLES, MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT
Page 14
The tractors, engines and wartime cars in Eric Green’s machinery collection have plenty of stories to tell. Katikati’s Eric Green with his prize 1930 Ford Model A. All photos: John Borren.
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Eric began collecting 1972 when he bought a 1930 Ford Model A, his favourite piece. “It took me 28 years to get it going,” says Eric. “But it was ready in time to be a part of three of my four kids’ weddings.”
Fan of Farmalls
Eric has six Farmall tractors, the oldest being a 1941 Farmall WD6. “It starts by cranking a handle that runs on petrol, but the tractor itself runs on diesel. “It’s a pretty easy crank handle, it’s usually running by the second turnover of the motor.” While there are more opportunities to take the cars out for a spin, the tractors, all of which run, are certainly not left in the shed.
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Eric has been a Tauranga and Waikato Vintage Machinery Club member for 40 years, so he’s no stranger to a tractor trek.
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“The longest one I’ve done was from here to Whanganui and back via Stratford, which was 1100km. “There was 14 of us travelling together, with a car, which happened to be a Ford Model A, following us the whole way. “On another trek we went from Katikati to the Mamakus, Opotiki and around the Motu River. “I was on the WD6 and my partner drove my 1943 Farmall H. “Both tractors can get up to 30km/h, and we probably drove 100km a day.”
Sought after motor
The oldest piece Eric has is a 1908 Gardner stationary engine, which he came across by chance. “A guy used to call into our place to buy fruit. He saw the Model A and I mentioned that it had taken me years to get going. He had one himself. “Each year he’d come back and ask if I’d got it going yet and said to give him a yell when I did. When I finally called him, I learned he had passed away. “I spoke to his wife who said he had an old engine there, the Gardner, which I remember him telling me about – so I ended up buying it from her.
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“I recently got it going, too.” Farming equipment from the 20s and 30s also features in Eric’s collection – from tractor gear to stationary engines. “The engines are used to power implements like milking machines and water pumps. “These items were used before we could access power from the national grid and when farmers were changing from horses to tractors.” Eric has hand-operated petrol pumps and fourgallon tins that were used to transport petrol to New Zealand before it began being transported in bulk in the mid-20s. “I have a late 20s fuel bowser that I’ve done up, too, which is certainly a collectable piece of equipment.”
“Most kids like to see anything with wheels that go around. “Letting them jump in the cars and toot the horn, or doing activities like tug-of-war against a tractor is a great way to keep the next generation engaged in machinery.” MacKenzie Dyer
Eric and his Farmall H and Farmall WD6. “Getting to hear the machines run just how they did in, say, 1908 is probably my favourite part. “For the technology to stand the test of time is quite impressive.” Eric says it’s also good to see kids interact with the machinery at events, such as the Tauranga club’s Crank up Day, which this year will take place on April 11.
Eric and his wide-ranging machinery collection.
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At the moment, Eric is working on his second Model A and a 1941 American Ford V8. “It’s an ex-service car – so it was used either in the US Army or Navy. “Originally, it would’ve been painted army green and had shades over the lights, so spotter planes couldn’t see it. “There weren’t many cars built in 1941 because Henry Ford had to help make planes, tanks and other war machinery.” Eric says hearing a restored motor turning over again is a great feeling.
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CARTAGE & EARTHWORKS
Erosion repair a priority
The sort of works to be covered by the consent include repairing bank erosion, removing build-up of sediment and debris, maintaining and realigning waterways and clearing stream mouths.
Bay of Plenty Regional Council has lodged an application for resource consent to carry out erosion repair and flooding prevention works in rivers and streams around the Bay of Plenty, which is now open for public submissions. BOPRC’s Integrated Catchments Group is seeking to replace existing consent 64684, which covers all works on waterways outside the Bay of Plenty’s major Rivers and Drainage schemes – but excludes waterways within Te Urewera, Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tane, Raukumara, Kaimai-Mamaku, and all lakes within the Rotorua Lakes area.
Works covered
Works on Rivers and Drainage schemes are generally a permitted activity under the Regional Natural Resources Plan, but works in waterways outside scheme maintenance areas generally need resource consent. The sort of works covered by the consent include repairing bank erosion, removing build-up of sediment and debris, maintaining and realigning waterways and clearing stream mouths. The council’s application will enable the ongoing delivery of statutory functions pertaining to water quality management, soil conservation and flooding prevention under various legislation. BOPRC rivers and drainage assets manager Kirsty Brown says there has been a consent of this type in place for more than 20 years and it had a number of benefits, particularly when repairs needed to be carried out with some urgency.
“The consent is used in situations when, for example, a landowner lets us know that their property is being threatened, or has been damaged, by a waterway. “This consent means we are able to work with landowners, tangata whenua, and other interested parties in a timely way to manage that risk or take remedial action where appropriate. “The quicker we can get to these works, the more we can reduce erosion, with less ongoing sedimentation and reduced risk of damage.”
Common outcomes
Kirsty says the works also improve water quality and habitats for native fauna and flora with the provision of plantings, fencing of waterways and provision for fish passage all common outcomes. Kirsty says in the last year or so her team has been in touch with a wide range of stakeholders, including many hapu and iwi groups, landowners and territorial authorities. “I really appreciate the time that so many individuals and groups spent with us talking through any concerns or questions they had. It was a much less formal way of sharing the intent and rationale of the consent. It also meant that we could make changes to our consent application to address some of the concerns and suggestions we received, which is an excellent outcome. “This is now the formal part of the process – it is a publically notified consent and I encourage people to read more about it and write a formal submission.” A copy of the application and the opportunity to make a submission is at: www.boprc.govt.nz/ environment/resource-consents/notifications Submissions close February 1, 2021.
New name approved for Lund Road Reserve An 89-hectare recreation reserve near Katikati dedicated to horse riding, mountain biking and walking is one step closer to reality. A concept plan and new name has recently been approved by Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s Policy Committee following extensive public consultation. The Waitekohekohe Reserve (previously named Lund Road Reserve) is a mixture of native bush and pine forest located between Lund Road and Thompsons Track and includes the Waitekohe Stream.
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Council has worked with the Katikati Recreational Park Develop Group and local iwi Ngai Tamawhariua to come up with the concept plan and a name that acknowledges the cultural history of the area. Waitekohekohe is the name gifted by Ngai Tamawhariua in reference to the ancestral name for the area and its relationship to spiritual waters, a sense of yearning and climbing trees and vines. Over time, with support from locals and community groups, Council will implement trail/ track features and environmental planting.
ANIMAL HEALTH
Page 17
The three R’s Barbers Pole challenge of lameness The Barber’s Pole worm (Haemonchus contortus) season will soon be upon us…
Lameness in dairy cows is a multifaceted problem. It is also highly misleading; often the occurrence of lame cows is not directly associated with the cause – resulting in further confusion.
The team at Sollus talk about the three R’s of lameness prevention; Races, Rest and Ration. Management of these R’s is critical for success. The quality of races and focus on them in New Zealand is second to none. Races should be dry, firm, smooth, wide and with little to no impediments likely to cause bunching within the herd. Management of the cows on the race is also important. The amount of time on a race needs to be minimized, yet cows should not be hurried. Rest is a critical component of lameness prevention as it allows hoof blood flow, rumination, taking pressure off the hoof and is strongly linked to a well fed cow. Rest should be at least 14 hours per day. Cows graze for approximately eight hours and with only 24 hours in a day, this leaves two hours for milking! Remember that is from when they leave
the paddock until when they return. The last ‘R’ is ration, or the feed. Acidosis is well-known for causing several types of lameness. Acidosis in spring, usually caused by the combination of low fibre grass and starch based feeds, can cause a weakness in the hoof white line that isn’t a problem until it reaches the surface of the hoof, usually three months later. Hungry cows also don’t rest very well. They spend excessive time grazing, waiting at the gate and even fighting for access to feed on feed-pads, potentially damaging their hooves on the concrete. Cows that are hungry will often gorge when presented with feed, increasing the risk of acidosis as the rumen undergoes massive fluctuations in digestion patterns. Ration is one of the easiest areas to help prevent lameness. Numerous studies have shown the inclusion in the diet of high-quality forms of zinc, copper and biotin have been successful at aiding in the prevention of lameness. Getting to the bottom of your lameness issues is not as easy as laying rubber in the cow shed. You need to look at your system on a year-round basis and keep in mind the three R’s.
As a sub tropically-adapted parasite, it prefers the type of warm, humid conditions found as we move into summer and autumn. It sucks blood from the stomach lining of naive small ruminants; large burdens can extract enough blood to kill lambs/kids/cria and even adults in some cases. This gut infestation often strikes without warning; mostly in late summer and autumn, though the odd cases can occur prior to the New Year. Most outbreaks occur after a spell of hot, dry weather followed by some moisture. Typically 25mm (one inch in old school terms) of rain is enough, however a few heavy dews can also be enough to set up a challenge. With the right environmental conditions, and in the absence of effective management/control, ‘outbreak’ situations occur where larval numbers on pasture rise rapidly. Their ingestion by grazing stock results in the sudden appearance of ill-thrift, lethargy and at times apparent ‘sudden’ death - without any obvious sign of diarrhoea. One of the problems with Barber’s Pole is in predicting the seasonal onset of challenge. Unfortunately, studies have found no correlation between farms for the timing and severity of Barber’s Pole challenge. Even though a particular farm has high levels, this doesn’t mean nearby farms will be similar. And even on the same farm, the relationship between Barbers Pole levels in ewes and lambs may not be consistent. Testing by way of an early faecal egg count (FEC) of lambs, even while still on mum, can be a guide. Egg counts of unweaned lambs do vary a lot; with very high FECs indicating Barbers Pole is likely to be present. A further step to consider is a larval culture on that same faecal sample. The eggs are hatched and grow into larvae; then examined by microscope and a composition of the species present made.
On-farm clues need to be monitored into summer. When handling lambs/other young ruminants, look for paleness of the eye membranes. Normal eye membranes are a pink colour. Gums are less easy to assess; as they may look pale, even in healthy lambs. General flock/group control measures include keeping drench intervals for lambs grazing contaminated pasture to no more than four weeks to be on the safe side. Monitor ewes, two tooths and lambs separately. It may be necessary to treat two tooths for Barbers Pole without all MA ewes requiring a treatment. In terms of further diagnostic options to track progress, more faecal egg counts of lambs just prior to when they require their next drench can be enlightening. In terms of specific drench options in clinic, ask your local vet for advice on which product is best for your flock/group of small ruminants.
Page 18
FEED MANAGEMENT, HAY & SILAGE
A textbook season to start the year At the time of writing this it’s early December, we’ve had nearly 40mls of rain in the last 10 days and it’s looking like 10 days of fine weather will follow.
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That’s really going to help the contractors to get all of that surplus feed made from what the farmers have grown in time for Christmas. The swamp farms had a great start, and the high ground farms are looking good now too since having some follow up rain. Leading into this season we had a dry spring which created good conditions to get our silage harvested and our crops in. We were panicking because November was predicted to stay dry and was looking like an early drought, but it turned around and we ended up getting really good rain. We haven’t had a very good spring for a number of years. As a comparison, we got 64mls of rain in November 2019, but in November 2020 we got 192mls. That’s three times as much, which has set up the land very well for the beginning of summer.
Good news
It’s what you’d call a textbook season for most farmers. Everything’s running like clockwork, which makes me think that something is bound to go pear shaped. We’ll see what happens in January. A few cyclones are predicted to hit but this will bring in more moisture to get us through the dry season. The predicted pay out from Fonterra has risen to $7.00kgMS following a strong recovery from China’s food service industry. After several months of increased GDT up by 11 per cent, this is positive news for the New Year. Farmers will be looking to cut their better paddocks for silage and hay but need to be careful that they don’t end up with a surplus of feed on sidelings. It’s harder to control if you don’t have young stock to clean up. Dead matter will end up in the base of the pasture ending up as a host to eczema spores, especially if we get warm tropical rains in January and February. It’s important to keep an eye on spore counts and act accordingly. Maize and turnip crops are looking good but there are signs of leaf miner in some of the swede crops, so I encourage people to be diligent in checking their crops for this weekly, as well as weeds and white butterflies.
When doing follow up sprays with insecticide for leaf miner and white butterfly and it’s an opportunity to do a weed spray at the same time – one job targeting two separate issues.
Dairy a solution
An article in Feds News, Meat, dairy essential to global nutrition, discussed study findings from the Massey University-based Riddet Institute’s Sustainable Nutrition Initiative, which Dr Nick Smith presented at the Primary Industries NZ summit in November. He talked about how 820 million people are starving, while many more in developed nations are obese, and that the world’s population is projected to increase from 7.8billion to 10billion by 2050. The Ridett Institute say that to achieve ‘nutrition for all’ you need food that provides sufficient energy, is affordable, can be distributed to all, and that has sufficient production to cope with adverse events. SNI found a nutritionally adequate diet including animal products, however not recommended longterm, could be achieved at $1.98USD per day, but the cheapest plant-based diet costs $3.61USD per day – so it’s only an option for those who can afford it. “The price of meat had to double before it disappeared from the (most affordable) diet; the milk price had to increase eight times, and eggs tenfold,” says Dr Smith. I know many farmers have been concerned about the opinions ‘Joe Public’ has had our industry over the last few years, particularly in regards to the environment. We were an easy target I think – you can see a paddock full of cows but you can’t see the emissions coming from jet planes or cruise ships. But with studies like this, it’s becoming increasingly clear that dairy is a solution to some of the big world issues that are coming our way, and that the industry is here to stay. We have good supplies of milking quality silage and we still have some maize silage available for this season. We’re taking orders now for hay, straw and threshed rye which is cheaper to purchase straight out of the paddock, delivered directly to your farm. Give us a call for a quote.
FEED MANAGEMENT, HAY & SILAGE
Carbon balance in soil As part of current work by Waikato Biogeochemistry and Ecohydrology Research – known as WaiBER – University of Waikato research officer Aa on Wall is completing a PhD researching the impact of supplementary feed on New Zealand dairy farm carbon balances. “As part of our overall goal of mitigating greenhouse gas emissions on New Zealand dairy farms, I’m part of the team looking at increasing soil carbon stocks. University of Waikato research officer Aa on Wall. Photo: Catherine Fry. “If the carbon isn’t in the soil, it’s in the atmosphere as carbon dioxide studied on a farm where maize silage and palm (CO2),” says Aaron. kernel make up around half of the cows’ diet. Results An annual increase of 0.4 per cent of carbon in showed a small improvement in soil carbon levels. soil globally would remove roughly the equivalent to “Growing the maize has to be taken into CO2 emissions by human activities. consideration though – two years of maize cropping A variety of practices and conditions are studied to determined a loss of six tonnes of carbon per hectare ascertain what factors affect soil carbon levels. These of maize crop.” include the effects of re-grassing, planting a diverse While a three-metre tall crop, most of the carbon is sward of several different pasture species, planting stored in the biomass above the soil, plantain, growing maize, and which is then harvested and taken using supplementary feed. away, meanwhile the microbes “A point of difference is we are continue to release carbon (as CO2) researching at paddock scale on from the soil. working commercial dairy farms, “The silage eaten by the cows puts not trial plots,” says Aaron. some carbon back into the soil, but Soil carbon change is measured the process of maize cropping takes by looking at the net ecosystem out more than is returned.” carbon balance. Carbon inputs Upcoming research will be carried to the soil are from cow dung out at Owl Farm in Cambridge, and urine, fertiliser and effluent, looking at turnip crops during the and CO2 from photosynthesis next few years. by the pasture itself. “As turnips are grazed on-site by “Carbon is lost from the soil as the cows, and not harvested, the CO2 (called soil respiration) and excretions of dung and urine are leached into the groundwater. immediately returned back into the “Most carbon stored in the same soil. pasture is also returned to the University of Waikato research “It will be interesting to see atmosphere after the cows have officer Aa on Wall working out on whether it is better or worse for soil eaten it.” one of WaiBER’s research farms. carbon than maize,” says Aaron. Photo: Thomas Corbett. Supplementary feed has been Catherine Fry
Page 19
DAIRY
Page 20
Farms may be cooling, not warming climate New Zealand sheep and beef farmers may be “Kanoa Lloyd of the TV3’s The Project recently she would not eat as contributing to atmospheric cooling, rather said much red meat because growing it was than global warming, says Rick Burke of contributing to warming the planet. “That’s misinformation which I believe Pukekauri Farms, Katikati.
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has come from big fossil fuel users. They “It sounds counterintuitive but if farmers get to ‘know have done well in deflecting the blame for their numbers’ for greenhouse gas emissions they may global warming on all agricultural sectors, be pleasantly surprised to learn they are actually cooling their farms.” Pukekauri’s numbers prove it is doing just that. Owners and brothers Rick Burke and John Burke have had the farm’s greenhouse gas numbers independently researched and verified by AgFirst Dairy, Sheep & Beef, agricultural economist Philip Journeaux. “What that showed is that Pukekauri Farm’s footprint has been reduced by Rick Burke and Jan Loney of Pukekauri Farm. Photo: Greenlea Meats. 60 per cent since 1999 and that, based on inflation adjusted figures, its profitability has improved by between 20 to 25 per red meat in particular. cent overall since 1999.” “I acknowledge a big chunk of those Rick, who is a Beef + Lamb NZ Mid-Northern Farmer in the agricultural industry worldwide, Council member, has a hunch the same may be true for including feedlot, intensive farming and many sheep and beef farmers whose land management practices and livestock genetics have improved in the past arable farming using high inputs, are not farming sustainably but many sectors are 20 years to the point where they are farming sustainably and that needs to be recognised. and may be even contributing to cooling the climate. “There will be many sheep, beef and dairy farmers across New Zealand Awesome story who have a great story to tell about “I urge farmers to do their numbers and not be afraid their regenerative practices producing to do so because our story is awesome.” high quality nutritious food from grass Telling the story of the positive climate impacts of sheep and beef farming and backing it with the evidence fed animals.” That’s why he’s encouraging farmers to is vital to help counter the consumer resistance to eating get to know their greenhouse gas numbers red meat. and add them to the growing evidence that shows while there is still room for improvement, pastoral farming in New Zealand is not a major contributor to global warming.
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The approach to farm management began to change in 1998 when a Land Environment Plan was formed in conjunction with Bay of Plenty Regional Council staff. This led to a progressive programme of retiring and fencing out waterways and marginal areas of the farm. As a result, the farmed effective area has reduced by 25 per cent, but production has gone up. “That’s because the areas we retired were marginal and often cost money in terms of fertiliser, weed control and stock management.” At the same time attention was turned to the livestock. Today Rick says Pukekauri stock are farmed to their best genetic potential. “We were lucky to have got ahead of the curve and if you like, but I know many New Zealand farmers are doing similar work on their land.” Those farmers are returning to the practices which were once a tradition in this country, paying close attention to the health of the soil and livestock – practices which changed largely due to the Livestock Incentive Scheme and Marginal Land Loans of the 1970s which encouraged farmers to carry more stock and to break in marginal land. “Farmers slashed and burnt too much marginal land, but today much has been restored to its original state including under the QE2 Trust or retired under regional council schemes.” Pukekauri Farm is today not only more profitable and sustainable, but, says Rick, it’s also a more pleasant place to live and work. “We know our soils are healthy which means our animals are too. “All of this is good for our own health as we are not faced with unwell stock and high vet bills.” To find out how to quantify your farm’s GHG numbers contact Beef+Lamb NZ or DairyNZ. Elaine Fisher
“Your numbers will provide evidence to support the recent study commissioned by B+LNZ, led by Dr Bradley Case of Auckland University of Technology, which estimates that the woody vegetation on New Zealand sheep and beef farms is offsetting between 63 and 118 per cent of their on-farm agricultural emissions.” Pukekauri Farm’s impressive numbers, calculated by Philip Journeaux using the Overseer model, are based on the farm figures from 1998-99, 2015 and projected figures for the 2020-2021 year. “We have good records from 1998
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around how we traded stock, the weights of animals when they came on farm and the carcass weight when processed. We also have good records of fertiliser inputs and areas retired on the farm, which 20 years ago wasn’t that much.” When assessing the numbers, Phil took into account the soil types on the farm (which has mainly rolling contour), dry matter grown and rainfall, protected wetlands, areas of native plantings and exotic trees.
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DAIRY
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Why earthworms are essential As a sharemilker, coming from an education background with only school and university holiday experience on dairy farms and hungry for information, I collected and stashed any interesting and potentially useful information.
“Analyses show that lime, plant nutrients and insecticides are also mixed through the soil. “Infiltration rate doubled from 12.5mm to 25mm/hr, moisture holding capacity increased 17 per cent, and available moisture in the top 30cm increased by 17.5mm in the soil tested. “Better infiltration reduces run-off, erosion, and flooding. Improved crumb structure lessens the risk of wind erosion. “Earthworms hasten the decomposition of organic matter and the cycling of nutrients.
Production increases
There are more than 190 earthworm species in New Zealand, but only a few introduced species are regarded as beneficial.
“Dry matter production increases of 28 per cent to 111 per cent have been measured in pot trials. “A 72 per cent increase in spring pasture production was measured at Hindon, Otago, five years after earthworms were introduced. “Areas with and without beneficial species have been observed on a wide range of soils. Obvious improvements in soil structure and moisture status and in pasture composition, vigour and growth (particularly in late autumn/early spring) support the research findings. Production increases of 25-30 per cent or 2.5 s.u./ha can be confidently expected following earthworm establishment. “Earthworms are affected by levels of organic material, calcium, soil moisture, and temperature. “Organic material is generally adequate under
Innovative Innovative Design Design Improves Improves Efficiency Efficiency
It’s been kept in boxes and added to over time as good information has come to hand. We were fortunate in the 1970s and 1980s to have Farm Production and Practice sheets provided free of charge by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries department. Those aglink sheets were a single-backed A4 sheet crammed with useful data based on local research, with a wide range of topics covered. Ezi-flo pit gates completely Ezi-flo pit gates completely clear exit ways and cannot It was all good stuff that abruptly ended in the lateclear exit ways and be touched by cowscannot leaving be touched bythe cows leaving 1980s as ‘user-pays’ kicked in and the only research milking area. the milking area. undertaken was short-term industry-funded with a commercial focus. The fully galvanised gates are available in kitset for The fully galvanised gates Much of the earlier information ended up in research speedy are available in installation kitset for institute libraries, which in time could only be accessed speedy installation by paid up members. Coming from an era when good information was 0800 226974 free, demand for payment didn’t sit well and those 2 C OW S H E D of us sufficiently interested scoured relatives’ Ph Jim 07-850 Mob. 0274 936 693 2 C5971 OW SH ED bookshelves and second-hand book shops for Ph Chris 07-849 3630 Mob. 0274 936 692 relevant books and bulletins. ezi-flo Ph JimP.O. 07-850 5971 0274Hamilton 936 693 Box 10 188,Mob. Te Rapa, PITGATES Nowadays ,the internet is the source of most www.dairybuilders.co.nz Ph Chris 07-849 3630 Mob. 0274 936 692 information and there is, I think, the tendency to P.O. Box 10 188, Te Rapa, Hamilton PITGATES believe that if it’s not immediately available it www.dairybuilders.co.nz doesn’t exist. From aglink FPP 211, published in 1984, here is information on earthworms that exist under pasture.
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ezi-flo
Earthworm species
“There are more than 190 earthworm species in New Zealand, but only a few introduced species are regarded as beneficial. Allolobophora caliginosa, a relatively small, active, greyish-pink earthworm is the most widely distributed introduced species and generally predominates under pasture. “Other species, mainly native, occur under pasture, sometimes in quite high numbers, without observable beneficial effects. “The obvious changes resulting from earthworm activity are the incorporation of organic matter from the soil surface and the strikingly improved open friable structure of the soil. Plant root development improves and soils are moister.
GRUNDFOS ®
grazed pasture, where the weight of earthworms can approximate that of the stock carried. Populations are lower in un-grazed and cultivated areas. “Calcium stimulates earthworm reproduction and activity. “Numbers have increased by 50 per cent in response to 2.5t of lime/ha and by 90 per cent in response to 5 t/ha. Low populations are often associated with low calcium levels.” There is also plenty of New Zealand research on the effect of beneficial fungi and bacteria, dating back to the 1960s and earlier. As much as the move toward a ‘greener’ farming future is causing consternation amongst many farmers, much of the research has already been done and the required changes in farming practices can be rapid and seamless, without any short-term downside affect. For information, call Peter on: 0800 843 809.
DAIRY
Page 22
Control YBG (before it seeds)
Yellow Bristle Grass is difficult to identify as a young plant. It’s vital to knock it over before it seeds and really starts spreading in summer. That’s why you should spray with Dockstar ® now. Increasingly prevalent on the North Island, particularly dairy pastures, YBG is a serious pasture production limiting weed. Dockstar, a selective herbicide, is kind to clover, ryegrass and tall fescue. And with a nil stock withholding period, using it makes grazing management much easier. • Selective to clover, ryegrass and tall fescue • Cost effective option
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Plan the future of your farm Planning for the future of your farm is in the too-hard basket for many farmers, reckons Hauraki Coromandel Federated Farmers president Kevin Robinson.
family farm, start the conversation now. “If you’re expecting your children to take over the property, get talking.” Getting professional advisers – accountants, bankers, farm advisers – involved is very important, says Kevin, which is exactly what he and his wife He says it’s not at all unusual for parents and their did when making adult children arrangements to take to have different over the family property expectations about years ago. Documenting what will happen things in a formal sense with the family makes sure that everyone property when is on the same page and parents retire, and helps develop a shared it can end badly understanding about for all concerned. what needs to happen “The worst thing to make the dream of that can happen farm ownership a reality, is that families he says. fall out. People “Even if you can’t leave on bad come to an agreement, terms and that at least you’ve had the relationship is very conversation. Both parties difficult to repair.” know where they stand, As a result, it’s and can set about making important to get other plans if the gap a succession plan between expectations can’t sorted now, rather be bridged.” than putting it off, Passing farms from says Kevin. parents to child isn’t the “Many people only pathway to farm leave it too late. ownership. Kevin reckons “Be proactive. there are still plenty of “If you want to Hauraki Coromandel Federated Farmers opportunities for those move onto the president Kevin Robinson. with a good work ethic to
own their own farm. “It doesn’t matter what industry you are in, taking advantage of the opportunities in front if you is the key to success. Farmers recognise skill and talent, and that’s when opportunities arise. People showing promise get plucked up, and can move forward quickly if they’re willing to work hard. “Lots of people say the dairy industry isn’t in a good place at the moment.
“But the industry has faced challenges before and come through them. The reality is that every industry has its ups and downs. There are always opportunities for those willing to work hard.” With around 34,000 Kiwis employed on-farm in 2018/2019, and another 12,000 employed in processing and wholesaling, the dairy industry remains the employer of choice for tens of thousands of New Zealanders.
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RURAL HOMES & BUILDINGS
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RURAL HOMES & BUILDINGS
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Pacific Lakes Village manager Mark Vincent. Photo: John Borren.
An under-construction Mount Maunganui retirement village aims to bring sustainable land practices to the retirement sector – from solar energy to composting. The 17ha Pacific Lakes Village is the first Generus Living Group village to emphasise sustainability in its design. Generus Living Group director Graham Wilkinson says environmentally-friendly practices are important to the business and its iwi partner, the Mangatawa Papamoa Blocks Incorporation. “We’re committed to embedding sustainability into our organisational culture, through a shared vision for a sustainable future,” says Graham. “The first step is developing the necessary infrastructure to support behavioural change.”
Wriggly residents
Pacific Lakes Village received a $10,873 grant from the Tauranga City Council’s Resource Wise Community Fund to set up worm farms and green waste composting. The village has initially purchased eight worm farms to trial. Each bin can process 2kg of food waste per day. “Kitchen organic waste caddies will be provided to residents to facilitate participation,” says Pacific Lakes Village general manager for sales and marketing Craig Moss. “This initiative will not only reduce the amount of waste going to landfill, but provide the village with valuable compost and worm tea to enrich our soil in the village.” The village diverts 100 per cent of landscaping and garden waste from landfill. “We work closely with Mangatawa Papamoa Blocks Incorporated in the processing of our green waste. “We have our own composting bay, and a mulcher/chipper to trial on-site garden waste composting.”
Growing food One of the larger village common areas has been designed to include espalier fruit and citrus trees – trees that are trained to grow flat against a wall, fence or trellis. “Additionally, a glasshouse and climate-controlled growing container is planned, with the intention that in the future freshly-grown organic produce can be used by both residents and the village cafe.”
Making lakes and hay
Central to the village design is a series of lakes filled with stormwater runoff from Pacific Lakes and its adjacent sister village, Pacific Coast. “The lakes will foster growth of a plant habitat, which over time will encourage the return of birdlife and an ecosystem to the precinct and broader area.” Hay is made and baled on-site. “It’s currently being used during development to mitigate our environmental effects. “As each stage of earthworks is completed, grass is sown, then a layer of hay is applied.”
Eco-powered
Village homes are pre-wired for solar, so a solar package can be added if desired. The village community centre, called the Lake House, has been designed to operate ‘off the grid’ with solar panels and a tank water system. MacKenzie Dyer
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FORESTRY
Forest Growers Levy rate increases Directors of the Forest Growers Levy Trust have raised the rate on Harvested Wood Materials, for the first time since the levy was introduced by a forest grower referendum in 2013. Forest Growers Levy Trust chair Geoff Thompson says clear support for the value of the investment led to the decision to raise the levy from 27 cents a tonne to 33 cents.
“We had overwhelming support in our levy referendum at the beginning of last year, from small and large scale foresters; even more than when the levy was first voted on.” The FGLT was set up under the Commodity Levies Act, where producers of a commodity can vote to impose a levy on production for common-good projects. The levy has raised about $10 million per year in recent years. Geoff says COVID-19 in China early
in the year, and the lockdown in New Zealand soon afterwards, was a severe hit on levy income and required a fresh look at how spending commitments could be met and the prudence of replenishing reserves.
Research
“Our main priority is research, to fund projects which increase forest productivity – whether in large forests or in farm woodlots. We fund major investments in harvesting technology, forest management and mechanisation. “Another priority is the Forest Industry Safety Council and its projects to make forestry a safer place to work after the horror stories early in the decade.
“We still unfortunately aren’t at zero fatalities and serious injuries, which is the aim – but this year we’ve had the lowest fatality rate in six years,” says Geoff. “Biosecurity is no less vital for us than for any other part of the primary sector. A biosecurity officer is now part of the FGLT Secretariat’s staff. Projects like these allow leveraging of other funding from the government sector. Our biosecurity funding is an additional eye-out for all the pests and diseases which may arrive in New Zealand and harm native trees or the horticulture industry.” Geoff says this is the first time the rate has been increased since the levy was brought in. “In the following seven years inflation has chewed through its value, so half of the increase is just catching up to where we were before.”
New challenges
Geoff says the decision followed close consultation with the Forest Owners Association and the Farm Forestry Association. “We also surveyed owners of forests when we did the referendum last year. “The consensus was that we had set the levy rate too low and it should be about 35 cents a tonne, so more work could be done with it.” “The change will also meet new challenges in the industry, such as the political attacks on landowners’ right to prevent a land use choice of planting trees for harvest and carbon credits. “But looking forward, we need to assist in the huge and vital area of research into new wood uses, such as resins which replace plastic, transparent timber sheets that can replace glass and biomass use for no-emission energy production. Trees are a huge part of the bio-economy future.”
FERTILISER
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MPI scholarship recipient’s research nears end
a Req uest le ! p m f re e s a
Thomas Corbett deploying a DGT in the research farm’s main drain.
For the last two years, MPI Scholarship recipient and Waikato University PhD student Thomas Corbett has been researching the use of diffusive gradient thin-films – also known as DGTs – to measure nitrate concentration in waterways. His work has culminated in his published research titled ‘Utility of Diffusive Gradients in Thin-Films for the measurement of nitrate removal performance of denitrifying bioreactors’. “The first two years’ research has firmly established that DGTs can provide an accurate reflection of how much nitrate is being leached into the waterways on a farm,” says Thomas. “They provide an affordable and reliable option for use in nitrogen mitigation strategies.” Usual nitrate testing in waterways is carried out by taking a water sample and sending it off for analysis. “Taking just one sample only shows the nitrate concentration on that day, at that time,” says Thomas. “A rain event, or an application of fertiliser, would affect the reading, which may then be quite different days or even hours later.” Thomas says that by researching further to get these devices to a standard for commercial production, it offers farmers a cost-effective nitrate measurement solution for nutrient management and in depth studies of their particular farms. “Multiple DGTs can be put along farm waterways, or the edges of races, offering specific readings from specific parts of the property.” They can be used for up to four weeks, providing an average reading over the deployment time.
DGT and temperature logger. The core principle of the DGT is the inner binding layer strongly and rapidly binds the nitrate so it can’t diffuse back into the waterway. “Readings could be taken over a few days and the DGT changed before a rain event or application of fertiliser. “This gives the farmers a clearer picture of what is really happening on their farm, as different events and land uses affect the leaching of nutrients such as nitrate.” As discussions for commercial use are being explored, Thomas will be continuing his work on stage two of the research until its completion in April 2021. “We need to make a DGT which provides a colour change depending on nitrate concentration, so that the sample can be analysed by the farmer rather than being sent off to a lab. “We are close to achieving that now, and then we just want them out there and in use.” In order to align with national policy on improving the quality and maintain healthy water systems, Thomas knows there is a need for monitoring on a large scale. After he finishes his research in New Zealand, Thomas is hoping to get some international experience and apply for a post-doctoral research position in the United Kingdom.
Catherine Fry
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FERTILISER
Is our food still thy medicine? Part 2 In last month’s column, we began to discuss if our food still thy medicine, with a growing number of reports in recent years concluding that today’s foods are not as nutritious as those from the past. Let’s look at some research that has measured the selenium content of common foods grown in the United States’ upper Midwest. One such study is by AS Kecka and JW Finley titled: ‘Database values do not reflect selenium contents of grain, cereals and other foods grown or purchased in the upper Midwest United States’
(Nutrition Research 26:1 17-22 Jan 06). A detailed summary of this study is available without charge on Science Direct. This study has reported remarkable variations in selenium content for many foods. For example, the selenium content for wheat flakes varied 72 times in their samples, 57 times for wheat itself and 11 times for beef. In particular, the study found that the values they recorded bore little resemblance to the figures provided by the United States department of Agriculture’s National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference. It was concluded that the differences were so great the reference base was of little value. One can only surmise that the same could be true for the nutrient content of many other foods in many other countries. To further investigate nutritional decline, 10 common fruits and vegetables were examined for their calcium, magnesium, and potassium content (see graph below). Today’s food produces 10-25 per cent less iron, zinc, protein, calcium, vitamin C and other nutrients. Researchers from Washington State University analysed 63 spring wheat cultivars grown between 1842 and 2003 and found declines of 11 per cent in iron, 16 per cent in copper, a 25 per cent decline in zinc, and 50 per cent in selenium. The 2006 revised USDA food pyramid nearly triples the daily recommended servings of fruits
and vegetables. Chief scientist Charles Benbrook of The Organic Centre (Boulder, Colorado) says the food pyramid revision is directly related to the decline in the nutritional content of fresh food. “We’ve developed farming systems that grow a lot of plant matter and creates a lot of mass, whether that’s starch or fibre or pulp. “We have not developed equally effective technology methods to enhance the fertility of the soil. The capacity of all essential micronutrients in the soil needed for plants to manufacture vitamins and antioxidants that make food good for you, has not kept up. “That is why we are now seeing these declines in the protein quality and content of food, and in the vitamin, mineral and antioxidant levels. Less nutrient-dense foods, coupled with poor food choices, go a long way toward explaining today’s epidemics of obesity and diabetes.” Besides being severely deficient in almost all trace elements, it now turns out that our daily food has also become severely nutrient-deficient and today’s vegetables have lost most of their vitamins. Just empty carbohydrates and calories are left for us to eat. If we add to it the contamination of our food with agricultural poisons and commercial preservatives, we end up with something we should be avoiding at all costs. The alternative is to eat biologically, regeneratively or organically-produced food with no chemical inputs.
Mineral Content, 1963 vs 1999 (mg/100g sample) Calcium
Magnesium
Potassium
(All food is raw)
1963
1999
1963
1999
1963
1999
Apples with skin
7
7
8
5
110
115
Green snap beans
56
37
32
25
243
209
Broccoli
103
48
24
25
382
325
Carrots
37
27
23
15
341
323
Iceberg lettuce
20
19
11
9
175
158
Oranges
41
40
11
10
200
181
Peaches
9
5
10
7
202
197
Green peas
26
25
35
33
316
244
Strawberries
21
14
12
10
164
166
Red tomatoes
13
5
14
11
244
222
FERTILISER
Ideal soil fertility levels There is a lot of historical research which has been undertaken in New Zealand from which the biological optimum levels for most of the major elements and some trace elements for pastoral farming have been determined. The Biological Optimum levels are attained when approximately 97 per cent of the potential production for that particular element has been achieved. If we take phosphorus for instance, the Biological Optimum levels using the Olsen P test is achieved at 20ppm for sedimentary soils, 22ppm for volcanic ash soils and 35ppm for pumice and peat soils. However when it comes to the economic optimum levels, these can differ for different farming enterprises. For high producing dairy farms, the economic optimum Olsen P level may be 25 for sedimentary soils, 30 for volcanic ash soils and 45 for peat and pumice soils, assuming all other elements are in the optimum range. Conversely for an extensive sheep and beef farm, the economic optimum Olsen P level may be 15 for sedimentary soils, 18 for volcanic soils and 25 for peat and pumice soils.
Potassium
The same can be said for potassium, where the optimum level for dairy farms is between 140-200 ppm (MAF Quicktest units of 7-10), but for sheep and beef farms 120-160 ppm (MAF Quicktest units of 6-8) are generally regarded as adequate. However again there are variances with different soil types with peat and pumice often having lower potassium levels and some sedimentary clay soils having lots of reserve potassium which standard Quicktest analyses do not measure. There are also animal health implications with potassium which need to be considered for cows in particular, so keeping potassium levels at the right ratio in relation to calcium, magnesium and sodium levels are important. If milk fever, grass staggers or bloat problems occur, this is often as a result of a potassium imbalance in the soil with these other major cations.
Potential of Hydrogen
Soil pH is another variable when it comes to optimum levels. pH stands for potential of hydrogen, so it is a measure of soil acidity, and not an indicator of the need for calcium as some people wrongly believe. Lime (calcium carbonate) will lift the pH, but so too will magnesium carbonate and other carbonates, as it is principally the carbonate in lime which raises the pH
and not the calcium. Calcium has a very small impact on soil pH. When it comes to soil acidity, different plants have different requirements. White clover and lucerne perform best at a 6.3 pH whereas ryegrass only needs a 5.8 pH, so as a general rule of thumb, a 6.0 pH is considered optimum for dairy pastures. Too high pH can lift molybdenum levels too high and suppress the uptake of some essential trace elements. For sheep and beef where lime can be trucked on a 5.8-6.0 pH is considered economically viable, whereas when needed to be applied by plane, the sheer cost of flying on bulk quantities of lime can make it uneconomic to lift the soil pH above 5.6.
Lime
Again different soil types have different pH requirements, with peat and pumice soils not responding to lime as much as sedimentary and volcanic soils once pH levels get above 5.5 based on historical research. However, when it comes to lime I think there are other factors to consider such as aluminium toxicity and also the molybdenum status of the pastures. I have had hill country sheep and beef clients observe pasture responses to lime by getting their pH levels above 6.0. A trial I ran on a hill country property in the western Waikato gave an almost linear response to lime from lifting the pH from 5.0 to 6.1, but this particular site had aluminium toxicity and successive annual drought vulnerability, with lime giving a huge boost in the vigour and quantity of ryegrass grown as well as white clover, and suppression of the flat weed content of the pasture. Marine clay soils on the Hauraki Plains can respond to lime even though the pH level appears to be good, and this is because these soils have a very high magnesium component making them sticky and plasticine like and it is the flocculation affect of the calcium in the lime which improves the porosity of the soil, improving
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the nitrogen cycle and nutrient cycling generally as well as root growth. On such soils just using pH to gauge the need for lime will fail to detect the calcium:magnesium imbalance. For most other elements, the biological optimum and economic optimum levels are similar, although as in all soil fertility issues, the fertiliser budget should focus on the most deficient elements and the most cost effective way of addressing these. Robin Boom Member of the Institute of Professional Soil Scientists 0274 448 764.
Page 29
Robin Boom
CPAg MBSPC
Independent Agronomy & Soil Fertility Consultant
AVOCADO
Page 30
Time for a strategy reset Avoco is planning for a future that will require even greater discipline and collaboration to cope with a global avocado export market facing uncertainty and new challenges.
The global pandemic has caused widespread disruption to shipping and logistics in 2020 and, despite international borders reopening, ongoing quarantine restrictions at the New Zealand border are preventing Avoco marketing staff travelling and
Avoco is committed to developing markets in Asia, including Thailand, where New Zealand fruit is marketed under its AVANZA brand. meeting with customers in both Australia and Asia. Marketing and communications manager Steve Trickett says, like everyone in the industry, Avoco’s team conducted business via video-link in the ‘new world’ of COVID-19 and that was likely to continue over the next few months. “It remains uncertain how long it will be before we can travel and meet with customers again which is important for both our existing markets and those we’re looking to develop or increase volumes into. “This uncertainty makes planning for the future more difficult and is only one consideration among many when it comes to developing our next fiveyear business plan.”
fruit that holds up under the pressure of longer distance shipping. Fruit quality has been the avocado industry’s Achilles’ heel over the past three seasons, but efforts by the industry and Avoco’s quality and technical team to focus on best practice is turning variable fruit performance around. “We have learned this season that some new disciplines implemented in our AVANZA quality business plan have seen improvement in fruit quality based on out-turns of fruit that has spent longer in the supply chain than is ideal. “We may have turned things around, albeit with smaller volumes supplied over shorter periods than usual.”
Avos for Aussie
Changing tack
The past five years have seen Avoco focus on exporting New Zealand avocados to feed a hungry Australian market primarily, where growers receive the best returns for their fruit. Notwithstanding current Trans-Tasman vessel and port disruptions, risks associated with shipping across the Tasman are also relatively low. This strategy, combined with below-average volumes of avocados grown in Australia, means less fruit has been allocated to Asian markets, with the 2020-21 season likely to result in just under eight per cent of its total supply exported there. Steve says Australia will always be the main platform of Avoco’s export strategy, but it is inevitable that a focus for the next five years must also be developing Asian markets. There is also growing confidence in the ability of New Zealand growers and handlers post-harvest to follow best practice guidelines and supply
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Collaboration with other exporters, particularly in the area of alternative shipping arrangements, may also be a feature of the new way forward in growing New Zealand’s avocado sales in Asia. “This may involve both airfreight and sea freight arrangements, looking at what others such as Zespri are doing in the same space, and coordinating some market delivery options with them. “We’re looking to think outside the box.” Development of Avoco’s business plan will involve a complete SWOT analysis and a reset of objectives, with a strong focus on how to get Asia back up to absorbing 20, 30, or 40 per cent of the company’s total volume at value, says Steve. “We will be reviewing brand strategy and market servicing requirements, including the need for in-market resourcing. We’ll also look at pricing expectations and market development tactics in the face of increased access and attention being given to more Asian markets by South American suppliers. We have a lot of work to do, but given Avoco’s scale and experience in the market, we are well positioned to deal with the challenges that lay ahead.”
AVOCADO
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The new year plan: relax and refresh There was also discussion on the avogreen monitoring cycle. It was accepted that monitoring too closely may give a false reading in that it is better to monitor three weeks after a SSM spray. Tactics to reduce the SSM levels include spray chemical rotation,
Well, first up on my plan is a holiday and making sure it’s a good one. Even in these COVID times we can still make the time to get a good break. For many of us it’s off to the beach or the bush. A great opportunity to take time and contemplate the year ahead. While we are away there are still plenty of actions happening on the orchard. Yes, the fruit is still growing, harvesting is still under way and bugs and pests are still growing, too. Looking at the bug situation, pests continue to grow in this warm weather. Some like six spotted mite (SSM) don’t have a large presence in the very hot weather, however as temps cool into the late summer SSM starts to increases its numbers. Last year, north of Katikati out on the peninsulas, I saw a large number of trees suffering under crop loading and dryness, then SSM hit with aggression resulting in many trees defoliating. Now is a good time to start observing for six
remembering we only have two chemical families to rotate, keep cover on the ground and reduce dust, good spray application, reduce speed increase volume litres per hectare. Other than that, grab a sun lounger head to the shade, put your feet up and watch the world drift by.
spotted mite. Normally during the height of the summer heat SSM numbers drop, however recently we have seen numbers stabilise and ramp up during the later summer months. SSM is proving difficult to control in some areas. Trees that are under crop load pressure or are stressed from poor health present themselves as highly susceptible to SSM impact – leaf defoliation. I recently went to a meeting on SSM and there has been a larger than usual impact across the Bay from SSM in avocados. The heavy crop loads and drought stress in late summer impact avocado trees, placing them under more stress and making them more susceptible to SSM. SSM levels were at levels hard to control. We used all sorts of tactics and it is again recommended you look at the beneficials in your orchards and that you use targeted spraying chemicals rather than some of the broad spectrum types.
Towards consistent cropping Most Just Avocados growers completed their first pick by December 2020 and many have now fully completed their harvest. This is important for consistent yearon-year cropping as the resources can be primarily directed to the currently setting and developing 2021-22 crop without the added strain of late hanging fruit. Fruit set is a stressful time for avocado trees due to the high demand and competition for resources between the current crop, the setting fruit, the spring vegetative flush and the root flush. An avocado tree only has so many resources to go around and when holding a significant amount of crop late, the new fruit set or spring flush is often compromised. Inadequate carbohydrate reserves or nutrient resources to the fruitlets results in either poorer fruit set or higher fruitlet drop. If left unchecked, a cycle can perpetuate where resources get exhausted one year and then build up again the next in an ‘off year’ only to overflower again the next year. This is primarily the cause of irregular bearing. The challenge is to balance the resource needs of all these growth cycles to ensure optimal tree health and consistent high yields. Managing the basics can help to achieve this: Ensure adequate and balanced nutrition with a combination of solid and foliar fertilisers. However, avoid excessive nitrogen fertiliser during fruit set as this can result in an increase in fruitlet drop. Any water stress over fruit set results in higher fruitlet drop and consequently lower production. Although our rainfall is high, we unfortunately often have dry periods over the critical time of fruit set. A water deficit during this critical time of rapid cell division will also result in smaller fruit. Irrigation is a worthwhile investment to ensure not only larger fruit but also larger crops. A regular pruning programme will ensure adequate light into the canopy which in turn results in improved production with a more even crop load on the entire tree and not just predominantly the top or the periphery. It also results in better bud quality and
higher fruit set as well as a balance between vegetative and productive wood, which in turn will prevent excessive or over flowering. Manage your crop load and carefully consider your harvest strategy. A heavy or late hanging crop will compromise next season’s production as well as decline poor health trees even further. If you need to get crop off now or would like assistance with your orchard management programme, please talk to the team at Just Avocados. For more information, visit: www.justavocados.co.nz or: www.avoworks.co.nz
Sam Shergold: 027 829 0474 Aongatete Avocados Limited 81 Walker Road East, RD2, Katikati 3178
Phone: 07 549 1809 | Email: info@aaltd.co.nz | www.aaltd.co.nz
WE’RE INVESTING IN YOUR GROWTH At Just Avocados, we believe it takes a fresh approach to yield the best results. That’s why we are focused on optimising orchard health through an innovative model that grows stronger orchards for healthier returns.
If you’re looking to partner with a high-performance team, who are goal oriented and future focused, talk to us today.
Visit thetruthaboutOGR.co.nz
Kyra Fielden
John Emett
Grower Services (Bay of Plenty and Gisborne)
Grower Services (Northland and South Auckland)
027 257 5028 kyra@justavocados.co.nz
027 476 9087 john@justavocados.co.nz
@justavocados info@justavocados.co.nz www.justavocados.co.nz 027 472 9490
Page 32
KIWIFRUIT
Growing careers in horticulture
Horticulture is the new growth industry for New Zealand and attracting new people needs a new way of thinking. We are constantly bombarded with news articles about the need to attract both skilled and unskilled workers into the primary sector, and from what I see, it’s
true and the industry has systematic challenges ahead. By 2025, it is estimated the industry will need nearly 30,000 people with skills and tertiary qualifications to manage and lead innovative practices that maximise efficiencies through the supply chain. Then, there’s the ongoing workforce required each year to pick, pack and drive seasonal outputs. People are our industry’s most valuable resource and there is growing recognition of the need to further invest in people through quality educational pathways. Addressing these challenges through an educational lens will support greater uptake of a longterm career in horticulture and build the capacity of a workforce to meet the needs of horticultural enterprises across the country. Fruition Horticulture’s Level 2 NZQA programme is a great example of alternative thinking. This NZQA Level 2 programme continues our services and support within the New Zealand horticultural sectors in recruiting and training potential employees for a sector in need of entry level employees; as well as providing training and education for those who are wanting to begin a career in horticulture. The programme is funded by the Tertiary Education Commission and targets school leavers or those not engaged in employment, education or training. The team at Fruition Horticulture is dedicated to providing people the knowledge, skills and attitudes they need to enter the workforce and
Fruition managing director Sandy Scarrow. develop their careers through a range of vocational training courses. Fruition is committed to student development and understand that for some, there are various barriers to learning. Refining our Level 2 programme to support at-risk young people into a career, boosting achievement of Maori and Pasifika, and improving adult literacy and numeracy are key priorities moving forward. Our approach to education is unique in our sector and we are continuously looking at ways to improve programme outcomes. Encouraging youth to re-enter an educational setting is a challenge, but creative thinking and an innovative approach is crucial when attracting people to a career in horticulture. Providing a robust career pathway in horticulture for those New Zealanders searching for real opportunity should be a key priority for our industry. Our industry depends on it.
Sandy Scarrow
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Always employing locals has paid off was over. The good season result was far from expected. “We had a list of things we could do from one to 10 in case we needed more staff, from running a pick-up van to drive-in accommodation, but we didn’t have to do any of it.”
No newcomers
Since then Craig and Lani say they haven’t had any picking enquiries from people who lost their job due to
COVID-19. “For people who lost their jobs, I guess it would be a big mental shift to go from living in a big town or city to somewhere small and completely new, to pick fruit for such a short period of time. “If it was me, I’d pack my family in a caravan and go around the country during the picking season – it would be a profitable trip away for a family unit.” MacKenzie Dyer
Boysenberries in the flowering stage.
Relying on local pickers has allowed Quick Pick Ltd to thrive through the uncertainty of COVID-19. The Whakatane orchard, owned by Craig and Lani Julian, grows nine hectares of boysenberries and 12.5ha each of Hayward and SunGold kiwifruit – of which 2.2ha is organic. “We’re in a unique position because we’re located close to towns with high rates of unemployment,” says Craig.
under COVID-19 restrictions would have been a much trickier operation. Luckily, the boysenberry picking season is in December, and the majority is completed in just two weeks. “We used to pick over a longer period but it’s really hard to get people on board over Christmas and New Years. So instead, heaps of people come here at once and go hard for only two weeks. “We spend about $300,000 on wages for our boysenberry pickers. It makes us feel MATAMATA TRACTORS & MACHINERY special that the money is going into the local community in time for Christmas.”
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Kiwifruit season
But Quick Pick’s kiwifruit operation wasn’t as immune to the effect of COVID-19. The picking season, which sees 60 seasonal Craig Julian uses a Case IH Quantum for low-level spraying. workers come onsite, “So we’ve always employed locals and have never took place during the March-April 2020 lockdown. really had to advertise for pickers. We have people “When lockdown hit we thought: ‘If we can just from the area calling us months in advance. sell half of this crop, we’ll be happy’ – but the season “Many people who work for us live close enough ended up being amazing. to walk or bike here, so we’re accessible to a lot of “Working through COVID-19 was kind of fun in people who need the work.” a way, because we were all learning how to do things The timing of last year’s first nationwide lockdown differently together. Everyone was keen to be a part worked in Quick Pick’s favour, as having the 100 of the solution.” people needed on-orchard to pick the boysenberries By the time winter pruning came along, lockdown
My Name is Neil Woodward. I am a director of Z-Contracting- we are family run business, our team consists of three, being myself, my son and my brother. Our organisation has been established for over 18 years. I have been involved in applying crop protection programmes within the horticultal industry since 1966. We specialise within the kiwi fruit industry, We have the equipment to spray orchards with our two Atom sprayers and one recently purchased Tracatom Formula tractor which is also available for mulching and mowing.
My Name is Neil Woodward. I am a director of Z-Contracting- we are family run business, our team consists of three, being myself, my son and my brother. Our organisation has been established for over 18 years. I have been involved in applying crop protection programmes within the horticultal industry since 1966. We specialise within the kiwi fruit industry, We have the equipment to spray orchards with our two Atom sprayers and one recently purchased Tracatom Formula tractor which is also available for mulching and mowing.
Our Atoms are set up with radar speed sensors, this combined with fully automated sprayer controllers and three nozzle rings enhances application efficiency and accuracy. We also use a quad bike for strip weed spray applications. We hold all certificates needed to meet Globalgap compliance. We look at all challenges to help ensure we protect your crop with excellence.
Our Atoms are set up with radar speed sensors, this combined with fully automated sprayer controllers and three nozzle rings enhances application efficiency and accuracy. We also use a quad bike for strip weed spray applications. We hold all certificates needed to meet Globalgap compliance. We look at all challenges to help ensure we protect your crop with excellence.
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Page 34
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Jan 9 Avocado Food & Wine Festival, 11am-5pm, Katikati, $25 earlybird or $30 at the gate. See: tinyurl.com/y2uc7rtd Waihi Beach Summer Fair, 10am-4pm, Wilson Park, $2. See: waihibeachsummerfair. com
Jan 16 Creedance Clearwater Revival Tribute, 6pm, Haiku Reserve, Katikati, $25. See: katikaticoncerts.co.nz
Jan 23 Waihi Dahlia Show, Memorial Hall, Waihi, noon-3.30pm. Ph Jennifer: 07 863 7563. Morrinsville Dahlia Show, 11am-3.30pm, Campbell Hall, Canada St, Morrinsville.
Jan 24 Koanga Institute Guided Tour, 10am-4pm, near
Wairoa, $25. See: tinyurl. com/y3c92jnk
Jan 30 Home Composting Workshops, 1.30pm, Taupo or Turangi, free. See: tinyurl.com/y6ffz834 Wings & Wheels, from 10am, Sir Keith Park Memorial Airfield, Thames. See: wingsandwheelsthames. com Classic 70s Hits Concert, 6pm, Haiku Reserve, Katikati, $25. See: katikaticoncerts.co.nz
Jan 31 Farming like Grandad
& Country Fair, 10am-4.30pm, near Kawerau, $10. See: tinyurl.com/rae3qlh
Feb 4 & 12 Behind the Scenes Tour, 9.30am, Hamilton Gardens, $30. Repeated February 12.
Feb 6 Crop Swap, 10am-11am, 14 Jocelyn St, Katikati. Veges, fruit, seeds, baking, books, eggs, etc. Ph: 07 549 4522.
Feb 13 Pests Workshop, 9.30am-2.30pm,
Whakamarama (near Tauranga). See: tinyurl. com/y6vm379z Seed Saving Workshop, 1-4pm, Papamoa Hills, near Tauranga, $40. See: tinyurl.com/yykza2l8 Highland Games & Tattoo, 9am-9pm, The Domain, Paeroa, $15 earlybird or $25 at the gate. See: paeroahighlandgames. co.nz
Feb 13-14 National Dahlia Show, noon-4pm (Sat) & 9.30am-3.30pm (Sun), Hamilton Gardens. Ph Jennifer: 07 863 7563.
Time travel back to Grandad’s farm Farming like Grandad returns this month and is set to be a big one; with more animals, more vintage machinery and more competitions than previous years. “This year will have more of everything,” says event organiser Stephanie Johnson Bull. “There will be plenty to see, food to eat and coffee to drink from a variety of outlets. “Attendees are welcome to bring their own picnic, seating and shade such as a gazebo, so you can get comfortable and make a day of it.”
Grandad’s farm
It wouldn’t be a Farming like Grandad event without vintage machinery to transport onlookers back in time.
A variety of farm machinery will be on display at the Farming like Grandad event this month.
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Displays will feature the Waterwheel Collection, which features 18 years’ worth of donated pieces including milking machines, ploughs and hay makers. The event will also have a whole range of exhibitions from local collectors and clubs, including vintage car clubs. It won’t all be parked up, either. Machinery demonstrations will include a plough being drawn by horses, and a sheep shearing using a 1930s copper shearing plant. “We’ve got some commercial pieces as well, which is quite different for us. “This year may have more of a country fair feel compared to previous years.”
Animals and arts
It’s not all about the oil and grease – the day will also feature craft stalls and
live music entertainment. Several classic country fair contests for both adults and children will run, including the newly instated vegetable growing competition. This year’s animal pen will be bigger than last year, meaning more goats and alpacas to pet. Horses pulling carriages will also be roaming around. “We’re going to feature as many things as we can to entertain you all. “We hope to see you there.” Farming like Grandad is on Sunday, January 31, on SH30 Kawerau, opposite Military Rd, from 10am-4.30pm. Admission costs $10 for adults and is free for children. It is a dog-free event. For updates and to register for competitions, visit the Farming like Grandad Facebook page. For more information, visit: waterwheel.nz or call: 021 105 4531.
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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS
Right: Charleigh taking a break during milking time in Tirau.
Above: Max, 10, showing Blake, 8 months, his beautiful calf Bob at group day A&P show Te Puke. Right: Jimmy, 16 months, with his little piggies in Oparau.
Below: Yana, 7, snuggling her lamb Uan in Hamilton.