Coast & Country News February 2015

BEST ALL ROUND NEWSPAPER 2014 · BEST ALL ROUND NEWSPAPER 2014 · BEST ALL ROUND NEWSPAPER 2014 · BEST ALL ROUND NEWSPAPER 2014

GARLIC PAGE 4-5

DAIRY AWARDS PAGE 12-14

RAW MILK PAGE 20-21

TRACTORS PAGE 23

PASTURE PAGE 27-28

EFFLUENT EXPO PAGE 29

KIWIFRUIT PAGE 39-41

Te Kaha’s growing confidence Hoani Kerei sits beneath a vine and recounts the 800 years of history of the land on which it grows. He is one of 73 owners of Hamama Orchard, part of a joint venture which has brought employment and renewed pride and optimism for the people of Te Kaha. The orchard is also a finalist in the Ballance Farm Environment Awards. Read the story on page 9. Photo by Elaine Fisher.

COAST & COUNTRY

Page 2

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Job at mill changed farming Just how susceptible land use is to outside inuences was brought home when I visited a dairy farm in the Ruatoki Valley and a kiwifruit orchard at Te Kaha.

Tataiwhetu Farm near Taneatua is an attractive, productive dairy farm, owned by seven local families.

But 50 years ago the individual 10-20 acre farms, which make it up, struggled to support families, who were easily attracted away from farming by the offer of employment at the pulp and paper mill at nearby Kawerau. See story page 8.

Hamama kiwifruit orchard at Te Kaha provides employment for up to 30 locals, and most have ancestral links to the land going back 800 years.

However, until the orchard’s development through a joint venture begun in 1999, there were no jobs for them.

Te Kaha used to be a region where without many jobs available, there was little to bring people home.

The orchard venture is changing that, as is its drug and alcoholfree employment policy. See story page 9.

Both these Maori ventures are entrants in the 2015 Ballance Farm Environment Awards, which showcase dairy and drystock farms and orchards whose management is both environmentally and economically sustainable. See pages 6 to 11.

It’s an up-hill battle but the awards seek to demonstrate to the general public that farming and orcharding, as carried out by the vast majority of owners, isn’t at the expense of the environment.

I’ve been writing about the

award entrants for six years now and I’m continually impressed at their commitment to improving the environment, despite the fact doing so comes at a signiďŹ cant ďŹ nancial cost, and adds little to their ďŹ nancial bottom line.

There are few businesses outside the primary sector, which make similar investments in the environment or operate under increasingly stringent rules and regulations which in some cases limit their ability to grow.

Convincing the general public of those facts is not easy but these awards and the annual NZ Dairy Industry Awards attempt to do so by honouring their best and brightest. See pages 12 to 14.

And for a taste of something different, read about Claire and Mike Belcik’s Torere market garden, where they grow one tonne of organic garlic. See story pages 4-5.

By Elaine Fisher

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Award judges picture with entrants from Tataiwhetu Trust are back left: Terry Harding (judge), Te Aroha Teepa (trustee/director), Whare Teepa (farm contract manager), Russell Whyte (farm supervisor, Agritech Management), Lester Deighton (judge). Front: Desma Feakins (contract manager) Te Ihi Tihi (kaumatua), Paki Nikora, (trust chairman/managing director) and Margaret Wright (judge) at the Tauarau Marae.

Financial tenacity key

“It has taken time for the awards to achieve this status but entrants are now telling us they are taking part not only because they believe it important to showcase environmental farming practices, but also because they believe the awards are good for their business.”

Two kiwifruit orchards, three dairy farms and a drystock farm are finalists in the 2015 Bay of Plenty Ballance Farm Environment Awards.

They are spread across the region from Katikati to Te Kaha, to Whakatane to Rotorua. Margaret says it’s pleasing to see kiwifruit growers returning after the devastation of vine-killing disease Psa-V. Orchard entries dropped as growers struggled to cope with the disease, which killed the previously highly productive gold variety Hort16A. Now most orchards are recovering thanks to a new more tolerant variety SunGold, also known as G3.

Renewed optimism

“It’s encouraging to see the renewed optimism among kiwifruit growers but the emotional and

financial stress they have suffered as a result of Psa was really awful.

“It’s great to have kiwifruit growers back among our entrants for 2015 and we look forward to seeing more next year.”

In the early days of the awards, organisers were concerned they may not attract enough dairy farmers.

But this year dairying dominates the entry numbers, which Margaret says is impressive.

“This illustrates what those in the industry know – that the majority of farmers are doing an excellent job of managing both the environment and their farming business and that dairy farmers are fencing out waterways and controlling nutrient leaching on their properties.”

Financial viability

The awards have an even stronger focus than ever on the financial as well as the environmental sustainability of those who enter.

“We are not necessarily looking for the businesses which are the most financially successful, but the awards recognise that financial security enables people to implement environmental initiatives.

“Our six finalists this year all show financial tenacity and good management, which enables them to be economically sustainable and cope with the volatility which can arise in the primary sector.

“They all have a good understanding of the costs involved in their operations and are farming and orcharding in ways that are not

W IN

at the expense of the environment.

“They are role models for others in the industry and also provide the ‘good news stories’ which the wider public needs to hear about; what is really happening on the land.”

The standard of entrants this year was so high, for Margaret Wright, Terry Harding, Lester Deighton and Doug Lineham, deciding who to take through to the final six was very hard.

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“It was difficult this year as we not only had more entrants but most were of such a standard that they would have been finalists in earlier years.

“We sincerely hope they will enter again because most enjoy the experience and the judges’ feedback and will no doubt just get further along in the journey that results in farming in an environmentally sustainable way.”

Because of their wide geographic spread, finalists seldom have the chance to meet each other so this year they’re invited to a pre-dinner networking opportunity before the awards dinner on Friday, February 27.

The dinner at the ASB Area, Mount Maunganui, is open to the public. There will be a guest speaker as well as presentations showcasing the finalist’s properties.

Tickets cost $75 each for a threecourse meal and wine, and can be purchased from www.nzfeatrust.org.nz/ or by emailing co-ordinator Kirsten Winter at: bop@bfea.org.nz

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The Ballance Farm Environment Awards are now firmly established as a prestigious competition, which bring benefit to both those who enter and to the reputation of agriculture and horticulture, says Bay of Plenty awards judging co-ordinator Margaret Wright.

Page 4

COAST & COUNTRY

‘Lunar’ garlic flourishes at Torere It’s just as well the sheds on Mike and Claire Belcik’s Torere market garden are well constructed – because from their rafters hangs one tonne of garlic.

The couple have been growing garlic for 24 years and such is their reputation for quality and taste that it’s sold throughout the country in gourmet and

Claire and Mike Belcik harvest one tonne of garlic, which they grow organically on their Torere farm. whole food stores, health the making. This includes growing an herbal ley to be food shops and supermargrazed by the family house cow. Mustard is used as a kets. ‘bio-fumigant’ to clean the soil followed by another Claire also sells garlic, cover crop. As with planting by the moon, Claire also along with a wide range of uses biodynamic principles to enhance soil fertility, other produce she grows, including making biodynamic preparations, compost, from her popular roadside seaweed and fish-based liquid fertilisers, and growing stall in Opotiki each summer. green manures which are dug back into the soil.

The latest crop of heirloom “For me it all begins with the soil. If we keep the Takahui garlic was harvested soil healthy then we produce good food; and I want just after Christmas with the to grow good, nutritious food for people to eat.” help of WOOFers – a coin for For the garlic, the soil is worked up into raised beds, Fresh Torere Willing Workers on Organic Farms – as well as carefully weeded and planted with the biggest and produce is sold from friends and a mechanical “lifter”. best of last year’s garlic cloves placed five rows to a this distinctive trailer “I don’t plant garlic on the shortest day of the year bed. on the roadside in and harvest it on the longest, which a lot of people The rows are 20cm apart and the garlic is spaced Opotiki. do,” says Claire.

15cm apart in the rows. Mulch is applied to retain “I plant according to the most favourable phases of moisture and suppress weeds. the moon and keep a record on my calendars of when Keeps growing I plant and harvest all my crops.

Harvesting is hard work and last year, with the help “Before I plant a new crop, I get out all my old of friends and neighbours, Claire and Mike built calendars and check back to see what I did in other a garlic lifter using different pieces of machinery years and what worked best,” says Claire. cobbled together to create a new tractor-drawn tool “Last season I planted the garlic in late July and it which has made a huge difference to the work. grew really well.”

The device lifts the bulbs, making it easier for workers following behind to pick them up.

Rotation planting In the curing shed, the bulbs are cleaned by removPlanning when to plant is just one part of the preparation. Claire operates a five-year rotation system for ing two of the outside leaves, graded and tied in bunches, still with their roots, to be hung up to cure. the garlic and each new bed is at least two years in

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Couple share healthy food and knowledge 4 BEDROOMS 2 BATHROOMS 2 LIVING AREAS 130m2 A wide variety of crops are grown organically by Claire and Mile Belcik on their Torere farm.

“I think the garlic goes on growing a little after it’s harvested as it takes up nutrients from the leaves. We don’t wash our garlic or do anything other than let it dry.

“When it comes time to sell, we cut off the dead leaves and roots.”

The garlic will keep for up to nine months in the curing sheds.

While she’s experimented with a number of varieties, Claire prefers the Takahui garlic which was discovered growing in sand dunes near Dargaville many years ago.

“It was probably brought to New Zealand by Dalmatian gum diggers.”

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The Belciks and their children, John, Dan and Ben, have made subsequent trips to the USA “so the boys can get to know their American cousins” and Mike’s family has visited Torere too.

Today market gardening and timber milling are the main focus for Claire and Mike. Apart from garlic their other commercial crop is 145 lime trees with the fruit in demand for juice as well as fresh fruit.

Their property also grows a wide variety of other trees, including citrus, avocado, macadamia nut, feijoa, persimmon, bananas, berries, peaches, pears, plums and exotic timber trees.

Always experimenting, new varieties of cucumber and melons are being trialled.

There’s asparagus, kale, and watermelons. The ‘kitchen garden’ grows an impressive variety of food, flowers and herbs including corn, tomatoes, cabbage, lettuce, onions, celery, carrots and potatoes.

Everything is grown on organic principles and the property is just six months away from gaining full organic certification.

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Woofers help

The Belcik family is keen to share their knowledge of farming and gardening and are involved in gardening projects at the local school and marae.

They also like to share their home so there’s a steady stream of Woofers coming and going, including this summer Kaisa Schlarb from Washington who helped with the garlic harvest.

For further information, contact Claire and Mike via email: belcikfamily@yahoo.com Pinky Tafatu-Hipa, of Niue, has visited for the last two summers, helping with gardening and selling produce from the roadside stall.

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She also grows elephant garlic, which is truly huge.

Unlike common garlic, described as “soft necked” and most closely related to onions, elephant garlic is hard necked and related to leeks. To date only small quantities of the elephant garlic have been grown but Claire’s pleased with the latest harvest and will plant more next season.

Growing food and being a farmer was all Claire wanted to do when she was growing up at Edgecumbe in the Bay of Plenty.

At 21 she and a girlfriend bought round-the-world tickets and began their big OE. It was while in the USA that she met woodsman Mike.

In 1990 the couple bought 70 hectares of land at Torere, near Te Kaha.

“Our first child John had just been born and Mike had been seriously injured in a car accident, but we knew this was the property for us.”

Much of it was and still is, covered in native bush.

The couple began clearing the land and as Mike recovered, he erected a tepee and lived on the farm while he built a home.

The family returned to the USA to spend time with Mike’s family and earn money to help pay off their mortgage – Claire working with landscape gardeners, Mike using his considerable building, joinery and

timber milling skills. They returned with a container filled with American hard wood they had milled and Mike’s portable sawmill.

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BALLANCE FARM ENVIRONMENT AWARDS

Teenage orchard owner now successful dairy farmer The vision Corrie and Donna Smit of Edgecumbe formulated 23 years ago has more than been realised in the highly successful enterprise which is today Corona Farms Limited.

“When we drew up the vision it was big picture stuff,” says Donna.

That big picture aimed to “maximise growth with quality assets; careful timing, superior relationships, sustainable profitability, with a balanced lifestyle of family and fun”.

And while those goals have been realised, it’s an enduring vision which continues to guide the couple’s enterprises.

Individually and together, Corrie and Donna are visionaries.

Farm ownership was Corrie’s goal from the time he began milking cows as a college student.

However, the route he took was unconventional. In 1980, at age 18, Corrie bought a seven hectare bare block of land in Westbank Rd, Whakatane, and began developing it into a kiwifruit orchard with a packhouse and two coolstores.

He was so young he had to have government approval to own the land and Corrie relief-milked to pay for the orchard development – on one occasion milking three herds in the morning and two that afternoon.

The orchard became the financial stepping stone to farm ownership, enabling Corrie and Donna to shortcut the usual sharemilking route, buying their family farm in the heart of Edgecumbe village in 1989.

Company accountant

Donna (nee Pratt) grew up at Thornton, not far from Corrie and after leaving college, completed her accountancy degree by correspondence while working for a Whakatane firm of chartered accountants.

She joined the kiwifruit post-harvest company Rangitaiki Fruitpackers, today known as EastPack, in a part time position as company accountant and her role rapidly grew to an executive accounting and administrative role.

After 23 years Donna left EastPack full-time in August 2013 and led an information systems project for the company on a part-time basis.

Alongside raising their family, Steven, Corrinne, Tania and Peter, the couple continued to build their farming business and today Corona Farms Ltd owns five farms in Whakatane and

Donna and Corrie Smit began their farming business 23 years ago with a vision which still holds true today.

Oamaru, milking a total of 2300 cows.

The Edgecumbe farm is entered in the 2015 Ballance Farm Environment Awards and it has a uniquely urban address – right in the heart of the village.

“It’s been a great farm for our children to grow up on because they’ve been able to earn money doing paper rounds, and enjoy playing sports without having to travel,” says Donna.

Acutely aware they have more neighbours than most, the Smits have concreted their long driveway-tanker track to eliminate dust, planted an avenue of plum trees and scheduled tanker visits for late evening – “before bedtime”.

Animals and the farm are managed in ways which are respectful to neighbours and customers.

The farm has a number of mature trees and each year a further 30 deciduous trees are planted for animal shelter and to enhance the landscape.

Still confident

The 160ha, totally flat farm is made up of several smaller blocks, bought over time by the couple, and amalgamated into a dairy unit with two sheds, milking a total of 540 cows.

The two units are managed by Sam Stewart and Andrew Blair.

Corrie is in charge, looks after the young stock and relief milks.

Donna looks after the books for the company’s five farms and assists with calves at Edgecumbe.

Farm safety is a priority for the Smits, who incorporate Haz-

ardco Health & Safety Systems into the day-to-day running of their farms and for staff training.

The recent drop in Fonterra’s forecast payout hasn’t shaken their confidence in the dairy industry.

“It’s a wake-up call for many. If New Zealand is to retain its low-cost dairy production advantage we need to watch expenditure. Any downturn like this offers opportunities,” says Corrie.

Increasing production across all five farms by 10 per cent, to achieve their goal of harvesting one million milk solids this season, is one of those opportunities.

Budget

Despite tightening up on spending Corrie and Donna believe their managers will reach that target, with production already up by 14 per cent at the halfway point.

Operating a low-cost, simple system has always been the aim for the Smits.

The farm’s loamy soils grow good grass year-round, but the land can flood if the Onepu Canal on its boundary overflows.

Cows are kept off the pasture during wet periods and all waterways were fenced off 20 years ago and all canals are bridged.

To protect the soils, there is no pasture tillage, with paddocks under-sown with perennial rye grass in autumn.

Corrie and Donna are very conscious of nutrient leeching and strive to reduce this to the lowest levels possible, applying just 86 units of N, and bringing in below-average feeds of 171kg per cow.

BALLANCE FARM ENVIRONMENT AWARDS

Page 7

Environment influences farming decisions No supplements are fed out or made on-farm. Stock numbers are carefully linked to the available pasture and John doesn’t hesitate to reduce numbers if he thinks a drought is looming.

Highland Station’s meat and wool production put it among the top five per cent of New Zealand drystock farms.

Despite its steep nature, there’s no erosion on the hills thanks to careful grazing management.

In all, the farm covers 1240ha, of which 992ha are effective. Managing a property of this size takes planning and requires good infrastructure.

This includes 17km of tracks to maintain, strategically placed yards, the use of solar-powered electric fencing in

remote parts of the farm and a water wheel which pumps water to tanks from where it’s gravity fed to troughs.

Highlands Station’s staff are actively involved in the farm’s management and decision-making with each responsible for a different part of the farm and mobs of stock, creating a healthy competition to reach growth rates.

“The success of Highlands Station is due to our staff,” says Catherine. “We are the owners and take the financial risk but our staff produce the results which make it viable.

“At least the last 10 per cent or more of stock production and performance comes from staff decisions

By Elaine Fisher and knowledge.”

The Highlands Station team is from left: Daniel Hodson, Bronwyn Edwards, Kevin Kelly, Colin Mead, Catherine and John Ford, and George Bulled.

Volcanic action “cleared” much of the forest, shaped the land and continues to influence how Highlands Station is farmed.

Understanding those forces and how to work with them is vital to the success of one of the largest farms in the Rotorua district.

Today, John and Catherine Ford and their farming team of Daniel Hodson, Bronwyn Edwards, Kevin Kelly, Colin Mead and George Bulled farm the land, but it was John’s father Allen who began its development in 1931.

“Dad began by grazing part of the land in 1931 and in 1932 paid £800 for about 2500 acres as a ballot block,” says John.

The Tarawera eruption of 1886 had flattened much of the bush. When Allen bought the farm most of it was covered in fern and scrub, which he burnt, cleared and gradually turned into pasture.

Even today holes left by rotting tree stumps are a hazard for stock, dogs and farm staff.

“We once employed a college student, who spent all his August holidays filling up holes in just one paddock,” says John.

Distinctive ‘rills’

The eruption also coated the hills with ash and heavy rains, which followed created distinctive “rills” like large vertical corrugations, down the faces of the hills.

Allen left most of the surviving bush standing but extracted rimu, using bullocks to pay for farm development.

Today 320 hectares of bush are protected under Queen Elizabeth II, regional council and private covenants and 18km of fencing has been constructed to keep stock out.

Tarawera had the most dramatic recent impact on the land, but its volcanic history goes back much further.

The farm stands on an old rhyolite dome formed about 250,000 years ago and John can read its history

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in the layers exposed in cuttings alongside farms tracks.

Rotomahana mud can be up to two metres deep in places. The kaharoa ash is drier but lacking in minerals, and underneath is Taupo pumice.

The mud soils are high in phosphate and to reduce phosphate loss John has constructed a series of up to 200 detention dams throughout the farm, which slow the run-off and collect sediments.

On August 20, 2014, the dams were thoroughly tested by the biggest rainfall in 10 years.

The dams held the water in the upper catchments and in places no water flowed out, showing how effective the dams are in retaining water and reducing sediment loss.

Lake catchments

The farm is in the catchments of both Lakes Tarawera and Rotokakahi (Green Lake) and Catherine and John, who eventually purchased the farm from John’s siblings in 1995, take this into account within their farm management practices.

This has included a move away from cows to raising beef bulls and steers, and breeding ewes.

Properly managed, says John, the bulls have less impact on the land and nitrogen leaching. The young stock arrives in November and is sold after 15 months.

Many farmers are turning away from raising bulls to taking on dairy grazers because bulls are perceived as hard work.

“However, if you manage them and understand their nature, they’re not; and the financial rewards are greater.”

Highlands Station bulls – Catherine likens to unruly teenagers – are managed by keeping them in relatively small groups, giving them room to get away from each other and feeding them well.

Stock numbers

Sheep perform well at Highlands Station too.

Romney genetics have been introduced to improve facial eczema resistance and robustness.

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BALLANCE FARM ENVIRONMENT AWARDS

Production - confidence growing in valley

Pastureland in the Ruatoki Valley is fuelling not just milk production, but also the economic security and self-esteem of the owners of Tataiwhetu Farm.

The lush pasture and healthy, contented cows which graze it are The Tataiwhetu Farm team is from left: chairman Paki Nikora, owned, farmed and managed by trustee Frank Vercoe, farm advisor Russell Whyte, and managers landowners who since 2010 have Desma Feakins and Whare Teepa. taken an active role in the farming enterprise.

The herd is managed to keep the Somatic Cell Count For the previous 25 years the owners had been part of low, averaging less than 172,000 last season. what’s been described as “passive investment� with the Tataiwhetu Farms Limited participates in the local farm under the management of a 50/50 sharemilker.

Dairybase Benchmarking group, which annually evaluWhen Paki Nikora was appointed chairman of the ates 50 local farms.

Tataiwhetu Trust in 2010, he and the board began a Last year the Ruatoki farm’s proďŹ tability was above restructuring programme which involved buying a the per hectare average for the group, which includes herd of 500 dairy heifers, plant and machinery, and some very high performing farms on superior soil appointing staff who are also beneďŹ ciaries of the trust, types. and training them for their new roles.

However, the land and its people have a troubled “Under the sharemilker cows were milked twice-ahistory. In 1867 nearby land was among thousands of day, and input costs were high,â€? says Paki, who grew acres conďŹ scated by the colonial government because up on his parent’s farm, now part of the 195 hectare its owners were wrongly accused of the murder of dairy farm.

German missionary Carl Volkner outside his church “We began with a heifer herd and once-a-day milkat Opotiki. In the early 1900s the landowners received ing, which is much easier on the animals.� reassurances, including from Governor General Lord Production from the 580-cow herd has steadily increased by more than 25,000 kilograms of milk solids Ranfurly, that the land would be returned but it was decades before that happened, says Paki. per season for the last three lactations, well ahead of the historical twice-a-day milking operation.

Herd health

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Once-a-day milking has also had a positive impact on herd health and milk quality with farm staff receiving a “goldâ€? certiďŹ cate from Fonterra for being grade-free for four seasons.

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Today’s 195ha effective dairy farm is in fact an aggregation of a number of small, 10-20 acre farms created in the 1920s with the intention of providing an income for local landowners.

The farms, which milked 10-15 cows, were far too small to be economic.

With construction of the pulp and paper mill at Kawerau, locals found employment there more lucrative than farming.

However, seven families came to realise the beneďŹ ts of farming separate blocks as one large entity and in 1984 the trust was formed with the intention of bringing beneďŹ t back to landowners and their marae.

The trust has recently purchased a further 50ha dairy support unit, which has also ensured the protection of a signiďŹ cant pa site.

The land is generally at but prone to ooding so the trust initiatives supports Tuhoe initiatives to manage protection of the Whakatane and Waimana river banks and stream beds to minimise ooding and loss of farmland.

Paki carries out much of the work required. Planting of native trees and shrubs and fencing out streams and wetlands is ongoing and drains are kept maintained.

To prevent pugging, animals are grazed off-farm during oods or prolonged wet spells. About 25 per cent of the grazing area is irrigated by sprinkler pods.

The use of chemicals is being reduced by effective grazing, careful fertiliser use and controlled grass management to encourage pasture to out-compete

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BALLANCE FARM ENVIRONMENT AWARDS

Venture nurtures whanau and kiwifruit Cover Story

By Elaine Fisher

It’s peaceful and pleasant sitting under the young kiwifruit vines of Hamama Orchard.

But this land has a troubled and bloody history, as one of its owners Hoani Kerei tells.

Leaning against a kiwifruit vine he recounts the story of war and revenge, of kidnapping and escapes, of courage and hardship which marked the land’s first several centuries.

Hoani and the 72 other owners trace links to the land back at least 800 years. “When the migration canoes arrived, we were here to meet them,” he jokes.

But he’s more serious about the seven-plus centuries of bloodshed. “All that began to change when missionaries arrived.”

More peaceful time prevailed and Hamama Orchard and those which adjoin it are established on fertile coastal land which from the 1800s was gardened by local people.

Land’s guardians

However, in more recent times Te Kaha has suffered from a lack of employment with little to encourage people to stay or return to the land.

Moves to reverse this trend began in 1999 when the guardians of the land formed a 20-year joint venture with independent investors to develop a kiwifruit orchard employing local people, and providing an income and asset for the landowners.

The environment proved ideal for the lucrative gold kiwifruit Hort16A and in the two seasons before the variety was hit by the vine-killing disease Psa-V, the 10.7 ha orchard returned about $200,000 per hectare.

That level of return enabled the joint venture to re-graft the orchard to the new more Psa-tolerant variety G3, also known as Sun Gold, without incurring debt and pay a small dividend to shareholders and land owners. Management of the 4.41 canopy hectare orchard is overseen by OPAC and the company’s orchard operations team manager Alan Dobbie says the joint venture is the most exciting project he’s been involved in decades of orcharding.

Hoani Kerei and his cousin Piua Kereri, both part owners of the orchard, are involved in its management.

“It’s also made a difference in the Other ventures have evolved from the Hamama Orchard joint venture, wider community with a reduction in including a company formed by locals domestic violence, meaning everyone, carrying out spraying and orchard especially the children benefit.

“OPAC also has a counsellor available mowing and another for under-vine spraying. for anyone who needs help, which is “These ventures are not a hospital. great because in a small community They are real companies making a real like this it’s not always easy to admit difference in the Te Kaha community you have a problem,” says Hoani. alongside the orchard with production Optimism was high when Hamama statistics in the top quartile, which any Orchard was in full production but kiwifruit grower would be pleased to when the Psa-V bacterial disease hit the have,” says Alan. vines, Hoani says it was like watching a Te Kaha 14B2 – also known as loved relative die from cancer.

Hamama Orchard, has as its vision: “It was a very hard time, seeing the “Full utilisation of our whenua to effects of the disease and then having create profitability and opportunity for to cut out the vines.” our people”.

Recently a gully has been cleared of It’s well on the way to realising that honeysuckle, a host plant for unwanted goal and in doing so has given an isoinsects, and will be planted with native lated rural community a much-needed plants in winter. economic and confidence boost.

New skills

“This joint venture is making a huge difference to Te Kaha. The locals now have employment, are gaining new skills and qualifications and take pride in what they are achieving.”

Today up to 30 people work in the orchard, depending on the tasks required to be carried out.

Hoani returned to Te Kaha after years away shearing and turned his hand to orcharding, learning not only practical skills but gaining a diploma in horticulture too. His cousin Piua Kereri returned to Te Kaha to raise her children, and is furthering her qualification by undertaking the National Certificate in Horticulture Advanced programme focusing on orchard management.

OPAC operates a safety-first drug and alcohol-free work environment under which pre-employment drug testing and random testing is a standard.

Piua and Hoani say this policy initially caused many workers to leave the orchard.

“Some took the time to stop using drugs and alcohol. Others haven’t come back, but those who have say it has made a huge difference to their lives,” says Piua.

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Page 9

Page 10

BALLANCE FARM ENVIRONMENT AWARDS

‘Treat cows how you would like to be treated’ Dairy farming wasn’t the first career choice for either Geoff or Gerda Bradly but with the purchase of their Manawahe farm in 2005 they discovered a talent for animal and land management.

In a few short years the couple have turned what was a marginal dairy farm into a highly productive unit, while at the same time retiring a significant stand of native bush and fencing out and planting waterways.

Nga Rakau Farm, which includes Maori lease land, has entered the Ballance Farm Environment Awards for the second time – and both the farm and its owners have advanced since the 2010 entry.

The farm had belonged to Gerda’s parents, Herbert and Heidi Nater, and was being Policeman turned dairy farmer Geoff Bradly and ‘Scratchy’. managed on their behalf.

They were pleased when into a hill paddock.

Geoff and Gerda decided to buy it, but unfortunately “That encourages them to graze further up the Herbert died before he could see the transformations hillside in the cool of the evening, conserving their the couple have made. energy and helping with pasture management.”

Gerda joined the banking industry when she The farm is run by Rob Mitchell-Scott, who contract milks, and Gerda is the relief milker when left school and Geoff trained as an engineer in the required. electricity industry before joining the New Zealand It takes about three to three-and-a-half hours to Police. milk the cows at the peak of the season with the cows Gerda has a natural talent for stockmanship, which averaging about 20 litres per cow. is evident in the healthy, happy and very social dairy The herd was mainly Friesians when it was bought herd. “Treat cows how you would like to be treated,” from Gerda’s parents, but over time Jersey, some Ayrshe says. shire and now Kiwi Cross have been used to create That philosophy is one of the reasons the cows at the smaller-framed, productive animals the Bradlys Nga Rakau are milked only once-a-day. believe are best suited to the farm’s terrain.

“Because of the contour of the land, you might not think this farm would make a viable dairy farm.

Top five However, once-a-day [milking] has certainly aided in Despite once-a-day milking the production worth that,” says Geoff. of the Nga Rakau herd is in the industry’s top five per In places it’s steep but in sharp contrast, the valley cent. where the dairy is located is flat.

The aim is to produce an average of between 340 “Jon Nicholls, our previous Farmwise advisor, was kg/ms and 360 kg/ms per cow; and for the current very supportive of the decision to switch to onceseason the herd is on track to produce in excess of a-day milking and helped us manage the transition 115,000 kg/ms. from twice-a-day.

Nga Rakau operates a low-cost farming system, “The cows on this farm have to be pretty fit and growing nearly all its own feed thanks to careful pasonce-a-day milking reduces the distance and time ture management and an accurate fertiliser regime. they spend walking to milking.

Geoff has put his engineering skills to good use in “We also think the fitness of the herd is among the contouring of parts of the farm and the redesign the reasons we have few calving problems, very low of some waterways to reduce flood damage. empty rates at less than five per cent and hardly any A spillway has been created alongside one culvert, metabolic issues.” which at times struggles to cope with water flow, and Geoff has placed large rocks to enable fish to more Three times easily swim upstream.

The cows are moved up to three times a day Voluntarily fencing the many waterways on the depending on the weather and the season. farm has been done in close consultation with During summer the cows are put in an ‘easy’ the Bay of Plenty Regional Council and the Bradlys speak highly of the advice and support paddock near the dairy after milking, moving they’ve received. to a second area later in the day and by evening,

By Elaine Fisher

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Page 11

Innovation, positivity aids recovery from Psa Risk and innovation are aspects Phillipa Wright and Stephen Kenna have always factored into their kiwifruit business.

That careful planning and the couple’s positive attitude has helped them and their business cope, but couldn’t fully protect against the destructive impacts of the vine disease Psa-V. Today the couple’s 15 hectare Gold 3 orchard at Ongare Point, north of Katikati, with Phillipa Wright, Stephen Kenna and their sons Daniel, 20, its impressive crop of fruit and William, 18, and James, 16. newly planted young vines it was a massive task. But with a full canopy after one presents a very different picture from that of two years year it was worth it.� ago.

The dramatic loss of income and costs of re-establish“I remember the day I found Psa on our Hort16A ing the orchards meant Phillipa and Stephen choose to vines. It was September 9, 2012,â€? says Phillipa. ďŹ nd off-orchard employment.

The couple knew the disease was coming. It had Stephen carries out contract orchard work, including moved rapidly through Te Puke gold orchards two spraying and also root pruning to enhance fruit dry years earlier. “It was only a matter of time before we matter and taste. got it,� says Stephen.

Phillipa, who has degree in horticulture, is using her science and research skills in full-time research More challenging and development for an innovative dental equipment Risk management, in the form of everything possible, company in Katikati. All this alongside running the to protect their gold fruit did mean the KWKIWI orchard.

Limited orchards the couple own survived a little longer than others. But for one block of Hort16A, it was more challenging.

Commercial trials When they had bought a second piece of land in The couple continue to conduct a range of commer2007, the couple removed avocado trees from a block cial trials on their orchard for a number of companies and planted an orchard of tissue cultured clonal and organisations, incorporating Stephen’s practical Hort16A gold kiwifruit plants. expertise with Phillipa’s analytical and science skills to “It established a canopy and came into production assess the results. rapidly and we were very proud of what we achieved.�

The couple’s sons, Daniel, 20, William, 18, and However, when it became infected with the Psa-V James, 16, helped “deconstructâ€? the infected gold bacteria, the once attractive, highly productive orchard orchards and with its re-establishment. declined during one season. “It was always part of our business practice to be as in “Every time we went into the orchard we found control of our own destiny as possible, so we went out evidence of disease and had to cut more out. and did other things as well as the orchard. “However, we were able to get a very good last crop “We felt that strategically it was a good move to supfrom that orchard.â€? plement our kiwifruit income, as at the time we did Fires burnt the diseased vines and when the last crop not know what was going to happen with Psa. was harvested, the heart-breaking work of removing “We pride ourselves as being innovators in the kiwithe vines, trunks and root systems began. fruit industry and good performers with a focus on a It was tough. So was the reinstatement. “But the fact sustainable and proďŹ table family based business,â€? says that we had established an orchard from scratch before Phillipa. did mean we knew what to do and how to do it,â€? says Stephen and Phillipa initially leased a 6.5 canopy Phillipa. hectare green kiwifruit property from Stephen’s parents, which they purchased outright in 1995.

As they started the conversion of the orchard to the Eye to future then new variety Hort16A, the couple also began to Phillipa says a focus on managing risk and an eye for question conventional orcharding practices, including the future was also the reason, against the trend at the frequent mowing and weed spraying. time, the couple decided to maintain their orchard’s “Twenty years ago we stopped using herbicides double-planting. within the kiwifruit spray strip and developed a sward “We always thought there would be new varieties at that effectively manages itself. some stage so were reluctant to move to single plant“We see this as good for the ora and soil fauna, ing. “When it came to re-grafting Hort 16a vines removed insects and worms etc. Skinks [native lizard] are found regularly on the orchard,â€? says Stephen. because of Psa, that double-planting enabled us to reThe inter-row grass sward is usually only mowed to establish the canopy and so fruit production was much allow staff to carry out tasks. quicker.â€?

The original orchard, with a at to steep – for kiwiFour grafts were made to each stump too. “If we lose fruit contour – has a drain running through it and 25 one graft that’s only 25 per cent of our vine. years ago the family began planting its northern bank “If we had just two grafts, losing one represents a 50

By Elaine Fisher to provide shade for aquatic life. per cent loss. However, with 6.5 hectares to re-graft

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Page 12

DAIRY INDUSTRY AWARDS

Title victory fosters business growth Russell and Nadine Meade’s dairy farming business has doubled in size since they won the Bay of Plenty Sharemilker/Equity Farmers of the Year title in 2013.

Then they were milking 220 cows on 69 hectare Sullivan Estate property near Edgecumbe.

Today, the couple who are co-ordinators for the 2015 Bay of Plenty Dairy Industry Awards, are milking 415 cows on 120ha at Otakiri.

Nadine and Russell Meade, winner of the Bay of Plenty Sharemilker/Equity Farmers of the Year title in 2013, are co-ordinating this year’s regional awards.

They have in fact returned to sharemilk on the property, owned by Peter and Barbara Laing, where they won the 2010 Bay of Plenty Farm Manager of the Year title.

It was this experience which encouraged them to enter the sharemilking, equity partnership category three years later.

Nadine says entering the awards really challenged how they viewed their business and the judging process helped highlight areas where they could improve.

“Taking part in the awards

helped us gain confidence to rapidly grow our business and achieve our goals.

“We really enjoyed networking with other farmers and sharing ideas and gained huge benefits from the awards.

“We believe the greatest strength that our business has is our complementary skill set.

“This makes it easy to align responsibilities and ensures that all aspects of our business are attended to and are managed by the best person for the job,” says Nadine, who has a Bachelor of Management Stud-

ies with first class honours in supply chain and information systems management.

Russell grew up at Waimana, where his father was sharemilking for 17 years, but his parents encouraged him to try another career.

He trained as a plasterer and worked in Whakatane before heading overseas to the USA and UK. When he returned, he joined his father Albie as a farm worker and from there progressed to herd ownership and sharemilking.

The couple plan to continue to increase their business equity growth and to reach their goal of farm ownership. Russell and Nadine have enjoyed the experience of co-ordinating the 2015 awards, working with sponsors, entrants and the co-ordinating committee, who Nadine says are highly efficient.

The awards dinner is on Tuesday, March 3 at the Awakeri Events Centre Whakatane.

Tickets cost $75 and can be purchased from the dairy awards website: www.dairyindustryawards.co.nz

Whakatane farmers make strong showing Whakatane has produced the largest number of entrants in the 2015 Bay of Plenty Dairy Industry Awards.

Eight trainee, five farm manager and four sharemilker/equity farmer entries come from the district.

The winners will be announced at the awards dinner on Tuesday, March 3 at the Awakeri Events Centre Whakatane.

The entrants in the dairy trainee section of

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the awards are: Katikati: Hayley Bowman, Dylan Roche. Opotiki: Jordan Collier.

Te Puke: Andrew Cameron, Jeff White, Logan Burt, Michael Knudensen.

Whakatane: Adam Barkla, Billy Hurrell, Hare Nghaheu, Hayden Goodall, Mana Rurehe, Michael Simpson, Sam Moore, Simon Hose.

Farm Manger of the Year entrants: Tauranga: Tony Baker.

Te Puke: Caleb Lally, David Verwey, Glenn Ward, Luther and Jessica Siemelink.

Whakatane: Glen and Donna Sparrow, Grant Sandford, Jodie Mexted, Josh and Shaz Cozens, Tom Sinclair.

Sharemilker/equity farmer of the Year entrants: Opotiki: Grant and Karley Thomson. Te Puke: Amanda Edwards, Casey Brown and Fran Walker, Jeff and Ryn Going.

Whakatane: Bevan and Lyndell Jones, Matt and Diane Brown, Mike Learmond and Donna Constantine, Cameron Bierre and Margaret Miller.

DAIRY INDUSTRY AWARDS

Page 13

Awards bring personal and business benefits Winning the Waikato Dairy Industry Awards has enhanced their business and personal lives, say Michelle and Andrew McPherson of Ohaupo.

The couple, who won the 2013 Waikato of the Year title, are now co-ordinators for the 2015 event, an experience they are also enjoying.

“I guess I can add event planner to my CV now,” jokes Michelle. “It’s been awesome to be involved in organising the 2015 Waikato awards dinner and sponsorship.

“It’s a lot of work but it’s a neat job.”

The couple, who were sharemilking at Te Awamutu when they won the 2013 award, say what they gained from the experience has brought ongoing benefits.

“We entered to help grow our knowledge of our farming business; and the feedback we got from judges helped

us improve our staff employment and health and safety systems.

“We also wanted to gain a better understanding of what we both contribute, as well as to sharpen our game and position ourselves for future opportunities.”

Michelle says those goals and more were met by taking part in the awards.

They also enjoyed the chance to network with a wide range of people from other entrants, to sponsors to farm owners and agri-business professionals.

Taking part in the awards helped the couple focus on their long-term goals, which include buying their own small farm – something they hope to achieve this year.

Andrew and Michelle are strong advocates for the awards, which showcase the industry’s top performers at all levels from cadets through to farm managers and sharemilkers and equity partners.

“The competition for farming jobs, especially sharemilkers, is getting tougher

but doing well in the awards definitely helps when applying for new positions.”

Another bonus for winners of the merit awards – nine for sharemilker/equity partner entrants, seven for farm managers and four for dairy trainees – are the prizes each award carries.

Overall category winners receive an impressive package of prizes as well.

This year’s awards have attracted 32 dairy trainee entrants, 16 farm managers and 10 sharemilker/equity partner entrants.

The winners will be announced at the Waikato Sharemilker/Equity Farmer of the Year Awards night at the Claudelands Event Centre in Hamilton on Friday, March 6, and tickets costing $85 each can be purchased from the dairy awards website: www.dairyindustryawards.co.nz By Elaine Fisher Michelle and Andrew McPherson represented the Waikato region in the sharemilker/equity farmer category at the national finals of the 2013 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards.

Entries reflect Waikato’s dairy dominance The strength of the dairy industry in the Waikato is illustrated by the number of entrants in the 2015 Waikato Dairy Industry Awards, and they’re widespread throughout the region.

This year there are 32 entrants in the dairy trainee section, 16 farm manager entries and 10 sharemilker/equity farmer entries, ensuring some tough competition for all who participate.

The winners will be announced Waikato Sharemilker/Equity Farmer of the Year Awards night at the Claudelands Event Centre in Hamilton on Friday, March 6.

Dairy Trainee of the Year entrants are: Te Awamutu: Jordan Cook, Tyne Stafford, Sam Nash, Benji Gillespie, Ethan Connolly, Dylan Cribb. Cambridge: Daniel Ross, Brett Steeghs, Dylan Wood-McGann, Caitlin Bennett, Scotty McLocklan, Josh Monks. Matamata: Kurt Gaskell, Matt Pratt, Astra-lee Burrows. Hamilton: Calahn Vincent. Ohaupo: Andy Fullerton, Jonathan Bell. Raglan: James

Bacon-Preston, Jacqui Rutherfurd.

Otorohanga: Terence Potter, Andrew Wards. Morrinsville: Aaron Houghton, Holly Martin, Ethan Anderson.

Ohinewai: Trevor Taylor. Taupiri: Tom Evans. Tirau: Stephanie Walker, Daniel Van Lent. Waitoa: Tim Ross. Putaruru: Storm Burrows. Tokoroa: Jake Karl.

Farm Manager of the Year entrants are: Taupiri: Dylan Williamson. Te Aroha: Tania Earnshaw, Craig Durbin.

Tirau: Ed Auton and Rebecca Walker.

Morrinsville: Todd Lyford, Will Rolton.

Hamilton: Daniel Annan, Shaun and Carley Flett. Tokoroa: Dan and Gina Duncan. Putaruru: James Pelham.

Waitoa: Tim Hyde. Cambridge: Paul and Kate Manion. Matamata: Michael Allison and Monique Wightman, Mark Fouhy and Denise Lupton, Jeff Dowthwaite. Te Awamutu: LeeJay Miln.

Sharemilker/Equity Farmer of the Year entrants are: Putaruru: Aidan and Joanna Richards, Brett Bolt. Matamata: David and Lisa Anderson, Chad and Jan Winke. Morrinsville: Luke Drent and Ryan Hardwick, Kevin and Monica Campbell, Aaron Price. Te Aroha: Steve and Allie Andersen. Cambridge: Markus Woutersen. Te Awamutu: JP Pearce.

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DAIRY INDUSTRY AWARDS

Page 14

Competing gives employment ‘edge’ Competition for a decreasing number of sharemilking jobs is intense and those who do well in the New Zealand Dairy Awards have an edge, says John Butterworth of Mamaku.

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John won the Central Plateau 2012 Sharemilker/Equity Farmer of the Year title and was runner-up in the national awards.

This year he’s co-ordinator for the Central Plateau regional awards.

“Since taking part in 2012 I’ve bought my own small run-off block; and I think my success in the awards John Butterworth, who won the Central meant the bank took me more seriPlateau 2012 Sharemilker/Equity ously.

Farmer of the Year title, is co-ordinating “From a career point of view, this year’s awards. taking part in the awards gives you a point of difference when applying ing well this summer, but the reduced for positions.

“It’s also great to mix with like-minded payout forecast has put a dampener on things. people and test yourself against your peers.

“Winning a share of the prizes isn’t Income halved bad either.”

“We love it, but dairy farming is hard work and there needs to be a financial incentive to make it worthwhile; so Awards night having your income more than halved John is pleased with the number of isn’t great, but farmers are resilient. this year’s entries in the Central Plateau “There have always been ups and awards, which have attracted six entries downs in incomes and you just have to for the sharemilker/equity farmer catcut costs where you can and get on with egory, 12 in the farm managers’ section the job. and 20 dairy trainees.

“Experiencing these kinds of swings in The winners will be announced at a income and coping with them is somedinner at the Energy Events Centre in thing people outside of farming would Rotorua on Monday, March 2. probably find hard to comprehend.”

“It’s a great night for all those who go Dairying wasn’t how he started out. along. Everyone gets to catch up.”

The evening is also an excellent oppor- John was a stock manager with Landcorp before taking over management of tunity for anyone considering entering the family farm six years ago. next year’s awards, to get a taste of what However, dairying offers a better path is involved. to farm ownership than sheep farming, For John, the feedback he received he believes. from judges in the 2012 competition Tickets to the awards dinner at the helped not only his farm and herd Energy Events Centre in Rotorua on management skills, but also in planning Monday, March 2 cost $85 each and his career path. can be purchased from the dairy awards John is 50/50 sharemilking on his website: family’s 200 hectare farm at Mamaku, www.dairyindustryawards.co.nz milking 600 cows. The grass is grow-

Reporoa farmers dominate entries Reporoa farmers dominate the dairy trainee and farm manager sections of the 2015 Central Plateau Dairy Industry awards.

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Eight Reporoa dairy trainee and nine farm manager entries have been received for the awards, with the winners to be announced at a the gala dinner at the Energy Events Centre in Rotorua on Monday, March 2 Entrants for the Central Plateau Dairy Industry Awards Dairy Trainee of the Year are: Reporoa: Jake Gillespie, Claudia Odlin, Mac Phillips, Kiri Pilipino, Liam Sangster, Chaise Thompson,

Danny Wano and Tamati Whaiapu.

Tumunui, Rotorua: Scott Alexander and Colin Tremain. Lake Rotoma: James Beattie. Mangakino: Katie Brennan, Cheval Graham, Nick Osborne and Gerard van der Mark.

Taupo: Dave de Haan Kaharoa, Shane Finlayson and Brook Nelson.

Atiamuri: Shannen Lunam Atiamuri and Olivia Wade.

Farm Manager of the Year entrants are: Reporoa: Daniel Amoamo, Philip Botting, Hayden Corbett, Anthony Kiff, Ryan Orchard, Brendon Symes and Rebecca Clark, Laurence Walden, Matt and Chloe Walker, Reece Williams and Jessica Berry. Tokoroa: Ryan Gooding and Nathan and Elri Levin.

Kahaora: Alan Paterson.

The entrants in the equity/sharemilker of the year awards are: Ngakuru: Johan and Theona Blom; Kaharoa: Peter and Jacqui Guyton; Mangakino: Chris Robinson; Reporoa: Ross and Karla Shaw and Jeremy and Jade Wade. Waikite Valley: Campbell and Katie Wheeler.

C

Finding possums in the public toilets wouldn’t have been a pleasant experience as the practical jokers who put them there were well aware.

However, last month’s Country Funnies photos supplied by Willie and Carol Oates of Te Awamutu raised a laugh among many readers – including Chris Adkins of Cambridge who suggested fitting captions would be: “At least we are house trained” and “We just pooped in”.

“Hey Percy, we’ve gotta stop eatin’ those curries mate” was the suggestion from Owen Hopping of Omokoroa and Karen Blunt of Whakatane submitted: “Wow, these waterbeds are great - best sleep I’ve had in a long time” and “Harold, wake up...quick...I think I heard a bus pulling in”.

Wendy Hunt, also of Te Awamutu, is the winner of the book ‘It’s a bit rugged mate’ by Big Al Lester for her caption: “Nah, Madge, there’s no loo paper in this one neither”.

This month’s Country Funnies

photo comes from readers Kim and Mike – it’s a photo of their bull called George. The best reader’s caption will win a copy of ‘The Cat’s out of the bag – Truth and lies about cats’ by Max Cryer published by Exisle Publishing.

Cats are said to be the most popular household pet in the civilised world, yet they retain an independence which both intrigues and at times frustrates their owners.

In typical fashion, author, entertainer and broadcaster Max Cryer has thoroughly researched his latest topic to create a book full of facts, and sometimes fictions, about cats.

Cats have not only taken up residents in our homes, they’ve also integrated themselves into our language, art, poetry, fairy

stories, cartoons and music.

Max writes that there are even notable cat museum in Malaysia and Russia.

He also explains that cats have 245 bones compared with 206 for humans, a cat’s tongue has little spikes which point backwards, cats can jump five times their height, and cats can hear sounds up to 100,000 per second at tones two octaves higher than humans and dogs.

To be in to win ‘The Cat’s out of the bag’, email your suggested captions for the photo right, along with your name and address, and with Country Funnies as the subject to: elaine@thesun.co.nz Or put these details and captions on the back of an envelope and post to: Country Funnies, Coast & Country, PO Box 240, Tauranga 3110, to arrive no later than February 17. The winning caption will be published in Coast & Country’s March issue.

If you have a ‘Country Funnies’ photo we’d love the chance to publish it and invite readers for their caption suggestions.

New facial eczema product for sheep The New Year heralds the arrival onto the market of a new zinc bolus to protect sheep from facial eczema.

Bayer has just extended their existing range of FaceGuard zinc boluses that already protect cattle to include sheep.

As the warm, moist summer and autumn conditions set in on dry pastures, rain or heavy dews mean the risk of FE rises rapidly. Typically FE starts in early summer (January) and can continue well into the autumn (late May) as long as soils are warm. Already in December the first signs of spores were being noticed from a few of our clinics monitoring farms.

Classically FE affected stock show photosensitisation (sunburn) which can be severe making animals very uncomfortable. The skin damage is secondary to liver damage, and both together can result in ill-thrift, lowered milk production, low fertility, metabolic diseases and death.

It primarily affects sheep, cattle, goats, alpaca and deer but not horses.

Zinc treatment should start two to three weeks before the spore growth danger period for maximum protection. The mineral zinc acts by forming a complex with the toxic fungus (sporidesmin) and thus eliminating its ability to form by-products that are toxic to the liver. While prophylactic use of zinc treatments is very effective at reducing the risk of FE damage, no system is 100 per cent protective, so regular monitoring of stock is important if clinical cases develop.

Drenching with zinc oxide reduces the number of affected animals by about 80-90 per cent. Long term daily or weekly drenching gives the best protection as opposed to crisis dosing. Treating previously nontreated animals with higher rates of zinc should only be done during danger periods only. Trough zinc treatment is less effective again, reducing numbers affected by about 70-80 per cent.

Slow release boluses like Face-Guard are the best protection available. The first dose should be done at the beginning of the FE risk period, when spore counts begin to rise which is in January in most areas. Top-up dosing should be done where there is a prolonged risk of FE after six weeks. Thereafter further treatment intervals should be based on faecal zinc concentrations and veterinary advice.

It is important that boluses are administered slowly and with care, making sure the animal's head and neck are extended and straightened so the applicator in the mouth lines up with the opening in the throat. Boluses can be applied using the special applicator that is avail-

able on loan from your local clinic.

Be careful as zinc is potentially a toxic element, and it is easy to calculate dose rates and volumes incorrectly for trough and drenching systems. Also be on guard for milk fever in cows when starting your treatment programme as zinc interferes with calcium metabolism.

If your farm is copper or selenium deficient you should also seek veterinary advice before administering zinc to your stock.

O U NT R

FU

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Take the possum out of bull-filled dilemma

N NIE

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DAIRY

Caption this photo and be into win with Coast & Country News.

Post you photos to Country Funnies, Coast & Country, PO Box 240, Tauranga 3110 or email elaine@thesun.co.nz with ‘Country Funnies’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your name, address and phone number.

Page 15

DAIRY

Page 16

Pondering the year to come - it’s gonna be great While it’s always brave to make predictions, The beginning of the year is a reflective time for us all, but also a time to plan and patterns do emerge during time – and economic curves around supply and demand ponder the year to come. Below are some of my ‘ponderings’. do not seem to vary that much.

Interest rates

All you can read and consider are indicating that our interest rates are expected to fall. Banks are back taking on more risk.

Residential loans are at sub six per cent fixed for five years with legal fees paid, interest paid on all deposits and cash back of $4500.

All this must indicate a softening of rates.

This is failing an international event or shock.

Our inflation rate is low; the dairy payout is back, so there is no pressure on

the Reserve Bank to hike rates.

They have indicated they will not do so for 12 months.

Petrol price

The fall in price is a huge benefit to us all and we’re reminded every time we fill the car. It’s like giving the world a massive tax cut. On the farm fuel side is a significant cost as well and the expectation is petrol is likely to remain low for some time.

Dairy payout (side head) Increased supply, reduced demand equals reduced price. This is exactly what’s happened to the dairy payout. If you look around the world production has increased.

One wonders whether Fonterra needs to cut back on their capital spending to leave more in the payout for farmers under these difficult conditions.

However, the payout is expected to rise and even John Key has a ‘5’ in front of his payout predictions.

This is a brilliant industry and it’s not the time to get down in the doldrums. Prices will recover, just as they have in the past

Property prices

One cannot ignore the rapid rise in Auckland house prices. Again the supply and demand scenario applies here.

However, add to that 60,000 immigrants and returning Kiwis and demand is going to exceed supply.

My prediction is we’ll see property prices out of Auckland drift up, although I’m not expecting any increases in dairy farm values at this stage.

It’s like having to create a city the size of Invercargill every year to accommodate those returning to New Zealand and the new immigrants.

Historically, property price rises around the country in the provinces have normally followed Auckland’s for as long as I can

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remember. My prediction is property prices could rise by up to 20 per cent during the coming 12-24 months in the more populated provinces.

Confidence factor

Again this is a big factor. Confidence is at an all-time high with a verbal poll on Radio Live indicating most people are sitting with a feel good factor of eight out of 10 with many at 12 and 13 out of 10. Everywhere you go people seem to be confident.

Confidence is also reflected in our ability to spend, which affects the multiplier. The multiplier is basically the rate that free cash whizzes around the economy.

The more confident we are, the more we spend. Japan’s economic woes are made worse by the fact nobody will spend anything and they just hold onto their money.

Political stability

One only has to look at Australia, where the public have little confidence in their leader and politics, to see the country sliding backwards. New Zealand appears to be exactly the opposite.

John Key and his team are running a sound ship and that gives us all confidence to continue in our endeavours.

Interestingly enough, there seems to be more of the public growling at those who are avoiding paying their fair share of taxes.

How would you run the country let alone the hospitals without everybody paying their fair share? Apparently even IRD have noticed this trend.

And so, it is going to be a great year. We are likely to have softening interest rates, political stability, more confidence, cheaper fuel, rising property prices, a payout that should improve, more people to contend with and the bullish attitude should continue. Enjoy the ride and ensure you make good logical decisions.

These are the opinions of Don Fraser of Fraser Farm Finance.

Any decisions made should not be based on this article alone and appropriate professional assistance should be sought.

Don Fraser is the principal of Fraser Farm Finance, and a consultant to the farming industry. Contact him on 0800 777 675 or 021 777 675.

DAIRY

Page 17

Here’s hoping osculation brings rain Everyone, including weather forecasters and DairyNZ, are now talking about a dry summer and so far the weather’s tracking that way.

I’d agree with that, provided of course, the feed is of high quality.

Unfortunately, many farmers have no idea what the wrapped feed they buy in consists of.

They should be asking their supplier for a feed analysis and use that information when making decisions on what to buy. The DairyNZ calculator can do the real affordability analysis, as long as you have access to the feed analysis details.

I put figures for our wrapped silage into the DairyNZ calculator and found they more than measured up. The industry average metabolisable energy level is 9.6 whereas our bales of silage are at 11.95 and DairyNZ are working on 10.5.

Based on all of the details I put into the calculator it showed our bales of silage represent significantly better value for money that most others we have seen advertised.

If anyone wants help with the DairyNZ calculator on their website or on our website www.billwebb. co.nz/links give me a call and I’ll happily help you work through the input required.

In a low payout year the aim should be to keep cows milking as long as possible to increase production and reduce overgrazing, but retain their condition for the

The next osculation in weather patterns is due around February and things could change for the better – ie more rain – but they could also stay dry, in line with an El Nino weather pattern.

The welcome rain in December has helped sustain pasture and crops and the maize really took off after a slow start. Pasture has grown well and many farmers are 10 per cent or above production last year.

However, soil temperatures are rising and soil moisture is falling so unless we get more rain shortly, conditions can only get worse. Farmers need to manage pasture carefully and not graze it down too low to retain some cover for the soil and grasses because weeds will take over otherwise.

It’s also time to consider culling and drying off cows. If empties are still milking well it’s best to hang on to them and dry off younger stock to keep them in good condition for calving. Booking space with the works early for cull cows is advisable to ensure you can move stock off farm when you are ready.

Take a planned approach to culling, targeting cows with Body Score Condition of 3.5 or less.

I said in last month’s column that spending more on supplements can in fact save farmers money, and now DairyNZ has come out with an online calculator which proves that to be Ezi-flo pit gates completely the case. clear exit ways and cannot be touched by cows leaving The rule of thumb the milking area. advice to dairy farmers used to be that you could The fully galvanised gates only afford to spend five are available in kitset for per cent of the payout on speedy installation supplements, which at the current $4.70 forecast would be 23 cents 0800 226974 per kg of supplementary 2 C OW S H E D feed. However, the latest Ph Jim 07-850 5971 Mob. 0274 936 693 DairyNZ calculator Ph Chris 07-849 3630 Mob. 0274 936 692 ezi-flo shows farmers can afford P.O. Box 10 188, Te Rapa, Hamilton PITGATES to pay up to 52 cents per www.dairybuilders.co.nz kg for pasture silage.

Innovative Design Improves Efficiency

coming season – so spending money on good quality supplements makes sense.

It looks like the haymaking season is going to end early because of the

dry weather so the time to order hay is now, while it’s in the paddocks, to reduce the costs of double handling.

We still have some hay available and straw, as well as making quality silage.

We specialise in driveways, entranceways, tanker tracks, hard stands and more.

We can offer you metal for farm races, shed sites etc deliver to site ex quarry.

DAIRY

Page 18

Drones and honey on open day agenda Limestone Downs is an attractive property, with the ocean on its boundary.

One of this country’s most significant farms, Limestone Downs, opens its gates to the public from 10am on Tuesday, February 17.

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The 3219 hectares dairy, sheep and beef property near Port Waikato is a large-scale commercial farm supporting the work of the charitable trust set up to fund agricultural research and development after founder and former owner Charles Alma Baker died in 1941.

Today the property is administered by a New Zealand-based committee, appointed by the English trustees of the C Alma Baker Estate.

The farm and trust has strong links with Massey University, with the trust providing some funding for agricultural and horticultural research at the university; and every year the farm hosts four members of the UK Young Farmers Club, who work on the farm for three months.

Every year Limestone Downs also

hosts open days. The 2015 event begins 10am with morning tea and guest speakers at the woolshed.

The topics include ‘Money from honey!!’ presented by John Burke, general manager from Comvita who, with a Comvita scientist, will report on research into manuka planting on the farm.

Massey University staff will give an update on the tick-transmitted disease theileria, which is a serious issue for beef as well as dairy cattle.

Precision fertiliser applications will be explained by representatives from Ravensdown, Ministry for Primary Industries, Ag Research and Massey University about the project using Limestone Downs to test techniques.

This will include a demonstration of how drones can be used to assist in ensuring fertiliser is spread exactly where it’s required.

Limestone Downs converted part of its property to dairying last year and ecologists, who’ve been monitoring streams

Limestone Downs’ open days attract farmers, agri-business professionals and the public – all keen to learn about research work and farm management.

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A proud supporter of Rural and Provincial New Zealand ELECTORATE OFFICE CONTACT: A: 25 Roche Street, Te Awamutu P: 07 870 1005 E: Kuriger.Teawamutu@parliament.govt.nz W: www.barbarakuriger.co.nz F: facebook.com/BarbaraKurigerMP Authorised by Barbara Kuriger MP, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

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on the farm, will report on the impact of that conversion.

After lunch, which visitors bring for themselves, there will be a guided, self-drive farm tour finishing at the cowshed for those who wish to observe milking.

Visitors are invited to bring a four-wheeldrive vehicle if they can.

Motorbike helmets are required to be worn by those using quads, and no passengers are permitted on these machines.

Riding on tractors is also not permitted.

The open day will go ahead wet or fine, and anyone interested in Limestone Down, its operations and the research underway there, is welcome to attend.

COAST & COUNTRY

Page 19

WALNUT TREE FARM

Page 20

‘Old fashioned’ milk hit with city locals Walnut Tree Farm dairy at Welcome Bay is probably the smallest brand new dairy built anywhere in the country.

Ruth and Craig Roughton are recreating history with their brand new Walnut Tree Farm fresh milk business at Welcome Bay near Tauranga.

“One of our customers is a 75-year-old, who remembers getting fresh milk from this farm as a boy,” says Craig.

Craig and Ruth bought the 9.6ha farm from the Sellar family, who’d owned it for more than 100 years and for decades supplied fresh raw milk in billies to neighbours.

The walnut trees for which the farm is now named, were planted by the Sellars too.

Now it’s mainly city dwellers who buy fresh, chilled raw milk, dispensed straight from a special vat, into their own or Walnut Tree Farm’s attractive glass bottles.

In the afternoons the public can also watch the cows being milked and ask Craig questions about cows, farming and milk.

All this happens in one of the country’s smallest milking parlours –an eight-aside herringbone milking 13 cows once-a-day. Small it may be, but the dairy meets all the high standards of hygiene, food safety and animal health required of modern dairies.

Smallest dairy

Builder Fuzz McLeod of Fuzz Construction Ltd says he couldn’t quite believe what Craig was asking when he approached him about building the new dairy.

“We have built in excess of 100 dairies throughout New Zealand and overseas but have never built one this small before.”

Craig and long-time Fuzz Construction builder, 72-year-old Ben Miller, did much of the build, assisted by other staff when required.

Fuzz has lived in the Welcome Bay area for 60 years and knows Walnut Tree Farm well. He’s delighted to

Alan Lee Fix it for me Mr Lee.

Cows were milked decades ago in this old shed on Walnut Tree Farm.

see how Craig and Ruth have transformed the property with their innovative new business.

“It was a pleasure to be involved in the project with Craig, who is such a pleasant client; always with a smile.”

Best equipment

Dave Hansen, manager of Logicool which carried out the refrigeration work for the dairy, says installing the best equipment and careful planning was required to bring milk temperature down to seven degrees Celsius before it enters the mobile vat.

“We achieved this by putting in a chilled water system but also installed equipment which is energyefficient to keep electricity costs down.” The Logicool team enjoyed working on the project, he says.

“We’ve been working on dairy sheds since 1991 and this is the smallest dairy we have ever been involved in,” says Noel Coombes of Mac Engineering.

However, there was still a lot of welding to do. Craig worked closely with the Mac Engineering team to design the yards, which can handle up to 30 cows, and the eight-side herringbone system.

Russell Parton of Conway & Carpenter Electrical Limited is impressed with Craig and Ruth’s fresh milk business and the forethought which has gone into planning and equipping the dairy.

High standard

“This maybe one of the smallest dairies we have worked on, but it has the infrastructure to enable Craig to increase data collection and remote monitoring in future.

“I’m impressed with what Craig has done, aiming at the higher end of the consumer market and doing everything to the highest standard.

“I wish them well and would like to see more of these kind of dairies start up.”

Think Water BOP installed the milking equipment, effluent systems and water reticulation for the dairy.

Peter Wheeler says Walnut Tree’s milking plant is tiny compared to the up to 80-bale rotary plants the company he’s used to working on.

Effluent system

“Another thing which was different was the need

The yards for Walnut Tree Farm dairy can handle up to 30 cows.

WALNUT TREE FARM

Page 21

Milking 13 cows a viable business ing our milk, many people are also buying it to make to slow down the milking plant to ensure the milk is cheeses,” says Ruth. cooled to seven degrees Celsius during milking.”

Think Water installed all the plumbing as well as the effluent system, which includes a sand trap feeding Yummy milk effluent to three covered holding tanks. From there it is Customers are invited to make comments in a visipumped for irrigation onto pasture. tors’ book. “Yummy milk” – “We drink cow’s milk Ruth and Craig, who also sharemilk at Te Puke, now – no more fizzy drinks” and “Love the milk” are began selling fresh raw milk from Walnut Tree Farm in among enthusiastic comments. early December and it has been an instant hit.

Craig says so far the Walnut Tree Farm fresh milk The couple decided to venture into the raw milk busibusiness has exceeded expectations for the number of ness following requests consumers arriving day and from the public to buy night to buy milk – and raw milk, and then, the personal satisfaction he, the same week, reading Ruth and their children, in Coast & CounBecky, 16, Amy, 15 and try about fresh milk Dylan, 10, have received venders Village Milk at from the venture.

Takaka.

“We just love talking to “We thought it the public about cows, milk sounded like a good and farming. Helping people idea so began to reconnect with where their research what was food comes from was always involved,” says Ruth. part of our aim and this is Finding a suitcertainly achieving that. able property close to “So many city children Tauranga City took really think milk comes in sometime but eventuCraig Roughton with a Walnut Tree Farm bottle of a plastic bottle from the ally they bought a supermarket. They have no fresh raw milk. small block of land, concept of the fact that cows built the new dairy, imported a milk vending machine produce it.” from Italy and set up a 24-hour self-serve milk shop.

The Walnut Tree Farm cows seem equally happy to be part of education process. Craig says they’re totally relaxed during milking time, despite the number of Selfserve milk shop strangers hanging over the fence watching their every Customers can take their own containers, or buy move. glass bottles from the farm shop, pay for their milk In true ‘town supply’ tradition, a second herd will with coins or tokens, and dispense their own milk – a calve in autumn, ensuring 365 days of milk supply for maximum of five litres per person per day. a growing number of consumers.

“Our customers are enthusiastic about our milk and Raw milk is milk that’s unprocessed in anyway. There’s we’ve heard so many ‘milk stories’ about how they no pasteurisation or homogenisation or additives. enjoyed fresh raw milk as children. As well as drink-

The law currently allows milk producers to sell up to five litres of raw milk at any one time from the farm direct to a consumer. All farmers selling raw milk

to consumers are required under the law to ensure the milk they sell is safe and fit for purpose.

Page 22

FARM MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

Vintage show day boasts 98-year-old tractor A 1917 International Titan tractor, which assisted with Britain’s food production during World War 1, will be among the oldest tractors on display at the Rotorua Tractor and Machinery Club’s vintage tractor show and live day on Sunday, February 22.

The tractor, which belongs to John Couch of Whakatane, was bought by his grandfather at the end of the war and accompanied John and his family

John Couch will have his 1917 International Titan tractor on display at the Rotorua Tractor and Machinery Club’s vintage tractor show and live day on February 22.

This BMC mini tractor demonstrating hay-turning was among the attractions at last year’s Rotorua Tractor and Machinery Club’s vintage tractor show and live day.

when they immigrated to New Zealand eight years ago.

“I believe it is one of only seven in New Zealand. The Titan was among 3000 shipped to Britain to help increase food production during the war.”

The Rotorua tractor and machinery club’s annual show day is held on the Mamaku property owned by agricultural contractor and club member Eric Cullen.

“We are very fortunate to be able to hold the day on Eric’s farm and if the weather is fine, will be using vintage machinery to make hay.

“Eric will also use his big modern machinery to demonstrate making wrapped silage,” says John.

Heavy horses will be demonstrating ploughing the way it used to be.

As well as vintage tractors, there will be vintage cars and vintage stationary engines on display.

A vintage tractor-pulling event, ploughing demonstrations with vintage tractors and horses are also planned, along with shearing demonstrations using hand-operated shearing machines. The Mamaku Volunteer Fire Brigade will also be there.

A swap-meet is another attraction and anyone with machinery or parts to sell can buy a stall space for the day.

Refreshments will be available and the event runs from 10am-3pm and will be sign posted from State Highway 5 at Mamaku. Entry is $10 for adults and admission for children under 10 is free.

For more information contact John Couch phone 07 07 308 0571 or email: titancouch@msn.com

FARM MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

Based in the kiwifruit capital of the world, and is set up to operate out of the large facilities of Agtek, at 295 Jellicoe Street, Bay of Plenty Tractors has direct access to the best stock of genuine spare parts in the country, at great benefit to the customer.

“This also enables us to have the most up to date information and factory equipment direct from the distributor and the factory, which helps ensure the best from the tractor for the customer,” says General Manager of Agtek, Gayne Carroll.

Gayne says the withdrawal of other tractor dealerships from the area has left a shortfall in the community.

“With our need for a stronger presence to provide after sales service support to the owners of our tractors in the region it was the obvious opportunity to set up Bay of Plenty Tractors.

“With Goldoni and Landini we have two very well-known and established horticultural brands.

Goldoni has become the Bay’s most popular kiwifruit tractor and with the arrival of the first of the lowered Landini Rex’s we can also again offer the Perkins powered 4.4 litre Landini to those who’ve been asking to update from their old Landinis.”

Obviously kiwifruit and horticulture

Productivity affordability

meets

New tractor dealership opens Bay of Plenty Tractors, Te Puke, is the new local dealership for Agtek, New Zealand Distributor of Landini, McCormick & Goldoni.

Page 23

is a huge part of the business in the Bay of Plenty and key to any business is its people, and Bay of Plenty Tractors has been lucky enough to secure the services of a couple of very experienced Te Puke locals to head things.

“In charge of our service department is Ian Jefferson, previously of Jefferson Machinery.

Ian has a wealth of experience working on everything from green keeper’s precision mowing equipment through to 200 plus horsepower tractors and combines.

“No doubt you’ll see our service vehicles flying around the region, or you’re most welcome to visit the workshop facilities. Ian says we’re available on call 24/7. We’ve set some very sharp introductory rates.

Looking after the sales side and customer care is Te Puke stalwart Shaun Hurst.

“Shaun’s a true born and bred local, with a passion to see the region grow and prosper. Shaun’s been in the tractor game from a service and sales side for more years than he’ll admit to. Many will know Shaun for sure, and he’s certainly looking to get out and about renewing acquaintances and making new ones.”

Shaun says when others are withdrawing from local communities it’s great to see others step up. “I’m really pleased to be a part of this exciting new opportunity and I’m sure that the local support will be just fantastic, we’re a strong and loyal community here and really do support each other.”

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2007 HONDA TRX420FM: One drystock owner, very tidy, bull bars, bearclaw tyres, tray extn, seat cover, tow bar, 5 spd manual auto clutch, 2wd/4wd optional, 24552kms.

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Page 24

FARM MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

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FARM MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

Page 25

Correct care, operation extends ride-on life For most people with a large area of grass to cut, a ride on mower is a significant investment.

When passing on the price I have sometimes been told “that is more than my car is worth,” but to buy a high quality machine that will do a big job costs a decent amount of money.

So having made a decision on the best machine for a property and budget it is prudent to look after it and operate it in way that will make it last as long as possible.

It is such a shame when visiting a client to see their new ride on mower worth in excess of $10,000 covered in dirt and grass, in an open shed. With care and understanding of the strengths and limitations of a machine, most ride on mowers can be made to last very well.

Before operation

Regardless of the age, check the engine oil every time before you start the mower. This procedure is about making the oil check a habit so you never get caught out. Lack of oil is the easiest way to ruin your engine quickly.

Clean and replace your air filter regularly. Dirty air is the easiest way to ruin your engine slowly and shorten the life of your engine.

Keep the top and bottom of your mowing deck clean with moving parts and belts clear of obstructions which create resistance and unnecessary wear.

One operator

If possible, restrict use of the ride on to one main operator. They will get used to the machine and will be responsible for it.

If a mower has a powerful engine the blades should be engaged at lower revs with the deck out of the grass. This is gentle on the blade clutch and associated running gear.

Tip: engines on ride on mowers are designed to run at full revs while cutting. While mowing keep the engine revs on full.

However, just because a ride on can go fast it doesn’t mean you have to

mow fast. Listen to the machine and mow to the conditions.

If the grass is long or wet, slow down.

You will get a much better cut and it will be easier on the machine.

Keeping the blades sharp also helps.

Be careful when oper-

For more information on ride on mowers that last, contact Andrew at www.zeroturnmowers.co.nz

By Andrew Peacock ZTR Mowers

Below: Andrew Peacock demonstrates how to easily wash and safely check the underside of a ride on mower.

+$< 6,/$*( 675$: 6833/,(6

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ating on slopes. If the run out below is not safe don’t go there, it isn’t worth the risk. Consider planting out unsafe sections or tackling then with a line trimmer.

If mowing close to the house or when people are in the area, keep the grass deflector down. This will stop stones and other hard objects from been hurting people or causing damage.

After mowing

Check over the machine and pay attention to anything out of the ordinary that was noticed during use.

Clean the mowing deck after every use. A clean deck has less resistance for cutting and clearing the grass, which leads to a better finish on the lawn and extends the life of the deck and moving parts.

Cleaning is easiest done straight away before the grass dries and sticks. Take advice on the best way to safely keep the underside of your ride on clean if unsure.

Keep the ride on mower in a secure, dry shed away from the elements.

These are just a few points. You can learn many other good ideas from talking to professionals, other users and reading the manufacturer’s operator manual.

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Page 26

PASTURE RENOVATION

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N I W n Escape for Two Italia

PASTURE RENOVATION

Page 27

Retaining soil moisture despite the heat

Plant breeder Elizabeth Kitson, inspects a plot of Mona Italian ryegrass in a dryland trial.

With the long hot summer days upon us it is time to think about pasture retention and one of nature’s way of keeping it moist.

To increase the soils ability to hold moisture and retain nutrients, added humates incorporated into the soil acts like a sponge, holding water and the nutrients dissolved in it. These retained water and nutrients are then available for plant growth.

Humates consists of decay resistant recalcitrant carbon compounds that help to give soil its life and structure. Humates added to your soil can last for centuries unlike compost and fertilisers which are rapidly used up by soil microorganisms and plants.

Compost and fertilisers only have a short duration in the soil perhaps weeks or months.

On the other hand, added humus can have long

lasting benefits, for example as mentioned earlier, increased water and nutrient retention.

If you have high phosphate levels, why apply more?

It is cheaper and better for the soil if the phosphate that is already there is made plant available and humates does this.

Repeated field studies have provided evidence that the addition of humic substances to soils helps to neutralise the pH of soils. Both acidic and alkaline soils are neutralised. Once the soil is neutralised, then many trace elements formerly bound in the soil and unavailable to plant roots, because of alkaline or acidic conditions, become available to the plant roots.

Humic substances also liberate carbon dioxide from calcium carbonates present within the soil. The released CO2 may be taken up by the plant or it may form carbonic acids. The carbonic acids act on soil minerals and in releasing plant nutrients.

New grasses a step ahead Two new Italian ryegrasses that will help farmers boost production will be available to farmers for the first time in February.

New Zealand has a good record of breeding Italian ryegrasses, which play an important role on most farms for production of one of the cheapest feeds possible.

To breed improvements takes a lot of effort and time. DLF Seeds have been breeding in New Zealand for improved Italian ryegrass performance for nine years.

The objectives in the breeding programme and testing were to develop a new cultivar with improved production in all seasons, and the ability to produce for two or more years in favourable climates. Hundreds of crosses have been developed, each with the potential to be a good cultivar, and then they are extensively tested in production trials.

Only if they perform equal, or better than, the best cultivars do they move on for further testing.

Elizabeth Kitson is the Italian ryegrass breeder for DLF Seeds, “From all the crosses and testing we eventually found two outstanding cultivars that were consistently excellent for production and summer survival. In one trial, the cultivar Mona was 35 per cent more productive than the cultivar we

were trying to better.”

Mona is a tetraploid Italian ryegrass with fast establishment and growth through winter and spring, but also has an improved ability to survive moderate summers and grow for another year. An added benefit of Mona is its very late heading date, says Elizabeth.

This extends the period in spring when farmers can graze or cut very leafy and high quality forage by up to one month.

Winter and early spring growth is not compromised by the late heading.

Some farmers prefer tetraploid over diploid Italian ryegrass because the larger seed gives faster establishment, and feed quality is excellent. Others prefer diploid cultivars, which have a higher tiller density, so tend to be more tolerant of heavy grazing in wet conditions and better able to either survive summer, or grow longer into summer.

“Jackpot is the other Italian ryegrass we bred here. It is a diploid and gives a farmer everything they need in an Italian ryegrass, high production and quality, and the robustness to tolerate grazing in wet or drier conditions. It has a good tiller density, important for competing against weeds and for persistence.

“In all the testing that Mona and Jackpot have been involved in, they have never been beaten by other cultivars for production. This gives farmers the confidence to choose Mona or Jackpot, knowing they have made the best decision possible.”

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PASTURE RENOVATION

Page 28 GR

A IN &

SEED DRESSI

NG

CRID G E SEEDS

QUA LITY PASTURE SEED

Accurate grazing provides best, economical pasture renewal The science we try to believe in tells us we need to renew our pasture to maintain full production of our pastoral systems.

There are sophisticated calculators and plenty of new varieties of to make your pastures stronger, faster, better.

Many Renewalists claim pastures need renewing every five to 10 years. This would mean between 10 and 20 per cent of your farm needs to be renewed each year.

With the average size New Zealand farm at 232 hectares and a pasture renewal cost of about $600 per hectare, this means the average farmer needs to spend between $13,000 and $27,000 per year to keep their pastures in top condition. Conventional pasture renewal requires ploughing the ground and sowing between 30 and 100 kg of seed per hectare.

But maybe there is an easier way. At Chaos Springs we believe that begins with adopting accurate grazing rotations. At some point you are letting the pastures go to seed which puts out about 300 kg per hectare, none of which you have to pay for. But that is only the beginning of the benefits of internal pasture renewal, so let’s take a look.

Letting pasture seed every year or two builds your seed bank allowing a natural return to a younger pasture.

We have been practicing this for the last eight years and it is amazing to see the pastures response after drought, as soon as the rains come back so does the pasture.

Vary rotation

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The way you move your animals around your farm will determine your productivity and your animal health. It will also determine the rate of renewal of your pasture. There should be times of the year when you let your pastures get very long and go to seed. When the animals go through these paddocks they will trample a lot of carbon and seed into your pasture. There are other times of the year when the pastures should be grazed short to open up the ground for new seed germination. Our pastures rotation varies from 40 – 180 days and we are specific about what we are after in terms current production and optimum soil health.

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Carbon is the basis of your soil fertility. Growing it is step one. You want to take advantage of the high growth rates in the spring and autumn, and then graze animals to push the excess carbon back into the ground.

Greg Judy a Missouri farmer in the USA and been managing pasture for about 50 years. He has been practicing

this technique for ages and has been able to eliminate other fertilizes completely from his farms. In addition he continues to see new pasture varieties appearing even though he has never put any seed out. His theory is as the pasture changes and improves, species that have not been seen in many years return. Most recently he has had a grass called Big Blue Stem appear, this is the species that the buffalo grazed on for centuries but was thought to be extinct.

Fertilise often

We have adopted a practice of putting our soil amendments on after the animals come out of these long pastures. We use a combination of liquid composts and vermicast along with plant extracts made on our farm and a bit of mineral such as fine lime or phosphate. As the carbon breaks down and is taken into the soil those nutrients are taken with it. We have found we use only small amounts two or three times a year.

We also like to continue to add seed into our mixtures. We add these into the liquid fertilization and spray them onto the pastures at certain times of the year. This practice is used to add to the existing seed bank. We generally stay away from modern pasture varieties and look to build diversity through adding things like plantain, chicory and more.

Reduce ploughing

Ploughing is expensive and murder on pastures. It can take years to build up good fungal levels in your soil and you can push them backwards quickly by ploughing. Spraying out is equally bad and both of these practices should be rejected. Accurate grazing management and precise fertilization can eliminate most of the need for ploughing.

There are a lot of claims about the new and “improve” pasture varieties coming onto the market but many have failed to live up to the claims.

If you choice to use any of these new varieties get your recommendation from someone who has had success over time, say 10 years or more. Never rely on just a couple of species in your pasture; a good pastoral system should be made up of at least 20 species and many more if possible.

Other Problems: New pastures may be future weed threats. Bio Protection New Zealand claims “new fast-growing grass varieties that produce more seeds and are resistant to drought, pests, grazing and disease may inadvertently be creating the next generation of invasive weeds.”

Keep it simple and follow nature’s example, you will save a ton of money and your pastures will be far better off.

By Steve Erickson of Chaos Springs

EFFLUENT

Page 29

Effluent expo bigger than ever

The Effluent Expo at Mystery Creek is a onestop shop to support farmers in upgrading their effluent systems.

The 2015 Effluent Expo at Mystery Creek on March 17 will be bigger than ever with at least 57 exhibitors taking part.

“Interest in the expo from both exhibitors and farmers is growing each year,” says expo organiser and environmental farming systems adviser Electra Kalaugher.

“It’s great that the expo is really being seen throughout the industry as a one-stop shop to support farmers in upgrading their effluent systems.

“We were especially happy to note that about half the expo’s visitors last year were farm owners, who are the decision makers for major investments like upgrading their effluent systems.”

At this year’s event the exhibition hall and outdoor area will once again be the venue for companies displaying specialist machinery and equipment, infrastructure, and design and consultation services all focused on effluent management.

“Seminars will also be held upstairs in the hall, but there will be fewer of them, giving more time for everyone to thoroughly discuss the topics.”

This year will also feature a small outdoor grandstand, where visitors can watch demonstrations of irrigation systems during seminars conducted by Debbie Care from AgVice.

“We also plan to have a food area and coffee cart

outside this year, to make better use of the outdoor area and make it a good day out,” says Electra.

The expo, organised by Waikato Regional Council and sponsored by DairyNZ, has the support of Federated Farmers and the milk companies and will also be promoted by the Bay of Plenty and Taranaki regional councils as an event where farmers can learn about the latest developments in effluent management.

Organisers are hoping to exceed last year’s attendance numbers of 650, when the majority of attendees were from the Waikato, although some farmers came from as far away as Northland, Taranaki and the Wairarapa.

The 2015 Effluent Expo will be held at Hamilton’s Mystery Creek Events Centre on Tuesday, March 17.

Questions about the Expo can be emailed to Effluent.Expo@waikatoregion.govt.nz

Page 30

EFFLUENT

When it comes to effluent - choose carefully When it comes to farm effluent there are so many choices and decisions to be made, says Hamish Forbes of Pondco.

“Farmers have to decide what type of liner to install, what warranties to get, and then how to choose a reliable company that stands behind their work and products. “As no farm is the same, Pondco’s Centroid FDE ponds are designed to suit each farmer’s individual requirements, soil types, geographic requirements and council requirement. With years of experience and trained installers, Pondco will take the stress out of meeting your compliance and farming system’s needs.”

Pondco offers a range of liners, underlay and gas and water drainage products to meet the harshest of environments. All liners come with a 20 year material warranty and are all made in the USA. “We provide producer statements, a full quality assurance package and have a comprehensive health and safety policy.”

Hamish holds qualifications in pond design and pond construction from the training organisation Infratrain and with many years of earthmoving experience behind him, has the expertise to get the job done right. As they say at Pondco “do it once – do it right.”

Pondco offers a range of liners, underlay and gas and water drainage products.

All Pondco’s installers are trained and certified and Pondco holds a certified welding ticket from the International Association of Geosynthetic Installers.

“We are now working with ReGen who offer irrigation technology by means of an app for your phone or tablet to assist with daily pond capacity levels and daily irrigation and nitrogen application amounts.

“As the earthworks and sub-grade of effluent ponds are such a crucial part of the pond, we work with specialised and very experienced earthmovers, who have all the equipment and knowledge to excavate the ponds to IPENZ practice note 21 standards.

We have custom made in-house products such as; custom pipe boots, pipe aprons, pedestal gas vents, safety signs, pond life rings and a safety escape system.”

Regular maintenance helps meet consents Failure to comply with farm effluent consent requirements can result in a $750 fine, or possible prosecution and to help farmers meet their responsibilities, the Bay of Plenty Regional Council has dairy effluent maintenance fact sheets on its website.

However, these are a guide only and farm owners and staff should read the consent conditions specifically relating to their farm for further detail.

The general advice for farm pond soakage systems includes training staff in effluent management, and making them aware of all consent conditions.

If herd size increases, make necessary alteration to treatment system, and advise council staff With feed and loafing pads ensure effluent is contained and not discharged to drains or streams. Obtain advice from council staff before connecting to ponds.

Roof water should be diverted by

guttering away from the yard and pond system. Check pond systems to prevent overflows.

Daily checks should include diverting clean yard stormwater by diversion drains to avoid unnecessarily overloading the pond system. This must however be clean water only, ie the yard must be cleaned prior to diversion.

Weekly checks include pumping to irrigation if the pond level is within 300mm from top. Monthly checks of ponds should include looking for weed growth around pond banks and spraying if necessary to keep pond clear of weeds.

Yearly checks include de-sludging ponds as necessary to prevent overflow to drain or streams.

If you are in any doubt about council requirements call a compliance officer on 0800 ENV BOP (368 267) for advice.

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Page 32

Wind-up toy stumps readers Few children receive clockwork toys for Christmas today, but the child who found in their stocking the one in last month’s mystery item was probably over-joyed.

The toy on display at the Morrinsville Heritage Centre is described by museum manager Barbara Dalziel as a mobile

on a metal stand.

“It has two monoplanes and two airships attached by wires. Clockwork-type springs wind up to make aircraft fly round.

“We are unsure if it is homemade or commercial, but found this an interesting item, and hoped some of Coast & Country readers may have had something similar in their childhood so they could tell us more about it,” says Barbara.

Apparently no one did because no one was able to identify it.

This month’s mystery item comes from the Te Aroha and District Museum and could best be described as a personal health care device, probably from the late Victoria era.

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Do you know what this device is? It’s best described as a personal health care device.

Send your entry to elaine@thesun. co.nz, with Mystery Item in the subject line, or post to: Mystery Item, Coast & Country, PO Box 240, Tauranga 3110, to arrive no later than February 17.

The winner will be announced in Coast & Country’s March issue.

The Te Aroha and District Museum is in the domain in the town’s main street, Whitaker St. It’s open seven days a week from noon-3pm in winter and 11am-4pm from Labour Weekend to Easter, and other times by appointment.

The January item from the Morrinsville Heritage Centre was a mobile on a metal stand.

EFFLUENT

Page 33

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MAIZE

Hi-tech harvester saves time, money Sean Cuff Contracting has the most powerful and up-to-date forage harvester from John Deere on the market today.

“The advantages of this harvester to you as the farmer is firstly that your maize silage is chopped at the best possible length according to the dry matter of the plant at the time of harvest,” says Sean.

“Secondly, it does a faster and more efficient job which will save you money which is important in a season like this with the dairy payout so low and every dollar counts.”

The 812 horsepower John Deere har-

vester operates a 10-row maize head and harvests three to four hectares per hour of maize depending on the crop and conditions. It can also harvest 12 to 15 hectares of grass per hour.

The auto contour maize head ensures the best and cleanest job in the paddock.

The machine is equipped with HarvestLab Constituent Sensing, which allows the operator to determine the content of several quality parameters simultaneously in various crops and organic material.

“Using maize silage as an example, you can measure the content of moisture/dry matter, protein, starch and NDF/ADF (fibre) so you know exactly the quality of the supplementary feed you are supplying to your herd.”

The John Deere forage harvester, owned by Sean Cuff Contracting, can harvest three to four hectares per hour of maize.

Rainfall urgently required Generally, Waikato maize crops look promising but lack of rainfall is starting to impact on yield, and signs of lack of moisture are starting to show, particularly on the light soils, according to the Foundation for Arable Research newsletter Maize@action.

Common rust or northern corn leaf blight have been sighted and the heavy dews and fogs are enough to induce further cycles of infection so growers are still advised

to scout regularly, particularly those areas with a history of NCLB or late planted more susceptible crops.

Bay of Plenty maize crops are growing well and many have pollinated. However, drought stress is showing on some lighter soils and rainfall is urgently needed to avoid a yield penalty. Some late planted crops may struggle if rain does not arrive very soon.

By mid-January the need for rain in the Gisborne region was becoming critical as firing of leaves was occurring and with very hot days yields could be impacted.

Fuel drop helps farmers The continuing fall in fuel prices should be reflected in lower farm input costs Federated Farmers believes.

Petrol and diesel pump prices have declined by more than 40 cents per litre since October.

Federated Farmers’ transport spokesperson Ian Mackenzie says he expects the persistent decline in the cost of fuel to be reflected in farm expenses.

“The direct expenses of running machinery are accounted for with a lower fuel bill for the farmer. But there are other high fuel use industries, in

particular transport, where we would expect to see some reduction in the costs from now on,” he says.

“For farmers this means expenses in their downstream processing should reduce, and so should the prices we pay for physical inputs, such as fertilisers, but also for agriculture chemicals, and contracting.

“Low interest rates, a lower dollar and now lower fuel costs and their flow on effects, should in combination help farmers weather what could be a difficult year.”

MAIZE

Page 35

Correct storage saves crop waste JCL About now farmers are thinking about their maize silage storage options. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an expensive crop, and poor storage can result in up to 25 per cent waste,â&#x20AC;? says Scott Bright, the founder of Interbloc and a silage storage expert. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A well designed storage bunker will pay for itself in no time, not only by reducing waste, but also the work required in feeding out.

This provides real cost savings at a time of a reduced pay-out.â&#x20AC;?

Scott explains the fundamentals of a good design, â&#x20AC;&#x153;A good bunker allows for easy access, good com-

paction, weather prooďŹ ng, and air tightness.

We also ďŹ nd a lot of the farmers we deal with plan on expanding their storage capacity in later years. Our system allows the farmer to simply add another layer of blocks later down the track and in the process gain, say, an extra 50t of storage capacity. This kind of ďŹ&#x201A;exibility allows farmers to quickly react to changing market conditions.â&#x20AC;?

Over the past 10 years Interbloc has supplied thousands of blocks into silage bunkers from Kaitaia to Steward Island.

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Farmers looking for a quality silage storage solution can beneďŹ t from Interblocâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s silage storage design guide which provides a comprehensive guide on the key things to think about when design there silage storage.

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Growing degree days narrow All maize growing areas were below average for midJanuary and with maize growth and development seven to 14 days behind normal, the Foundation for Arable Research reports. During January night temperatures warmed up and the previously big difference between this year and the long term average

for growing degree days narrowed, but was still 65 to 160 days below average across the maize growing country. Soil temperatures rose in mid-January and most areas were above average for the time of year. The exceptions were Hastings and Morrinsville which were both below average.

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AUTUMN FERTILISER

Page 36

Re-establishing nature’s nitrogen cycle A client at Manawahe near Whakatane has increased dairy production 88 per cent since becoming a Quantum client five years ago.

The initial lift, of 57 per cent, was attained in the first year and production has been steadily increasing

each year since.

Five years ago the bank threatened to sell the young couple up, as their debt to equity was too narrow and the bank did not consider that this hard working couple could work their way clear.

After contacting Quantum and seeking advice, within one year their production had increased 57 per cent and their animal health problems had dissolved.

Pathway eased from trees to grass Converting established pine forest to productive dairy pasture brings twin challenges of depressed nutrient levels and low organic matter once the trees are cleared.

All of this was achieved with no artificial nitrogen applications and a small amount of supplementary feed, all within the farmer’s budget.

Unfortunately much of the country is in the jaws of another drought, and just as regrettably much of this is man-made too. When are we going to wake up to the fact that the soil is the plant’s rumen and that as we try to boost growth through the application of bagged nitrogen while neglecting all other limiting elements, droughts will prevail?

No bagged nitrogen meant re-establishing nature’s nitrogen cycle and balancing all soil and feed inputs. A plus as far as animal health, the environment and increased capillary action in the soil as the water storage increases due to increased organic matter production, increased transpiration, increased condensation and consequently increased precipitation (rain fall).

When Lachlan McKenzie and his business partners purchased a 1200ha forestry block near Tauranga, he knew what was needed to give both organic matter and nutrient levels a kick start.

The block has an altitude of 500 to 550m above sea level with Mamaku Podzol soils.

As the trees are felled the partners are gradually converting the land into pasture.

For the 2014-15 season it was milking 320 cows once a day on 100ha, and next season will have 130ha in production, and hopefully 200ha the following.

As the land comes out of trees it is averaging a pH level of only 4.3-4.5,

If you wish to understand what this means, call Quantum on 0800 85 77 33.

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a challenge for getting pasture established given clover won’t grow at about 4.0, and pasture quality is also challenged.

Earthworm farm

Typically the soil also lacks earthworms, something Lachlan attributes as much to lack of calcium as to the pH level.

“Our ideal pH is 6.0 for good pasture growth. We also know that for soil micro-organisms and bacteria to thrive they too need a reasonable amount of calcium.”

The earthworms are also critical to develop the soil’s porosity and to break down the 50mm layer of unprocessed organic plant material lying on the surface.

Initial development applications of LimeMag at 4:1 at 3t/ha along with very regular applications of phosphate and nitrogen have built fertility levels quickly.

“We basically started an earthworm farm along with the LimeMag. We were going to seed the rest of the farm with the worms, but they just spread out after we applied the LimeMag anyway.”

The applications delivered rapid results.

Within two years the pH had surged from 4.3 to 6.0.

“From here we intend to monitor it annually, and see what our yearly maintenance level should be.”

Lachlan McKenzie believes the use of lime products like LimeMag is a piece of the jigsaw often left out by farmers.

The productivity from improved pH, higher organic matter and more porous soil is also starting to show.

A typical yield on the swede crop in year one was four tonne a hectare, but is now 16t. A recent silage crop yielded 4t/ha, and pasture is averaging a healthy 70 per cent ryegrass/clover content.

“I can see us getting to 10t dry matter/ha a year very soon.”

Lachlan estimates maintenance levels of about 1t/ha a year are needed on the developed dairy unit, with pH now sitting on the ideal 6.2-6.3 range.

As a farmer who takes a holistic, sustainable view on making the most of the resources a farm requires, Lachlan believes the use of lime products like LimeMag is a piece of the jigsaw often left out by farmers.

“Given how much research has been done on the value of lime, it is surprising more consideration is not given to it.”

Magnesium content

www.rorisons.co.nz

Swede crops

He also believes the magnesium content within LimeMag helps to ultimately lift the level of intake by dairy cows.

“It’s not a single solution, we still supplement the cows, but I think any increase in the level of magnesium you can deliver to lactating animals has to be positive.”

He is certain about the clear benefits in increased earthworm activity and organic matter from the use of LimeMag below the surface, and how that ultimately contributes to healthier, more productive animals above it.

AUTUMN FERTILISER

Page 37

Re-mineralising unbalanced soils Plants require 16 elements to grow and animals need 17 and all of these should be considered in a fertiliser programme.

A dairy farm producing 1000 kg MS/ha off a grass only system, would typically require 40 kg/ha of phosphorous, 75 kg/ha of potassium, 30 kg/ha of sulphur, and 15 kg/ha of magnesium for maintenance, and if levels of any of these are low, then above maintenance levels of these elements will be needed to build soil reserves.

Trace elements

However often forgotten are the trace elements, where typically 1 kg/ha of boron, 500 gm/ha of zinc, 250 gm/ ha of copper, 25 gm/ha of cobalt and 10 gm/ha of selenium are required to maintain soil levels. Any one of the essential major or trace elements can limit plant or animal performance.

This past spring I was called onto a dairy farm which had been applying a mixture of what was mainly lime and trace elements, with only half the amount of necessary potassium and almost no phosphate or sulphur for a number of years.

His pastures were going yellow and his cows were being poorly fed, whereas surrounding farms had plenty of grass. Subsequent soil and herbage tests showed very low levels of phosphorous and sulphur in particular, and potassium was also down, whereas the pH, calcium, and some of the trace elements I would normally expect to be low were adequate, if not too high.

Bad advice

Unfortunately he had been listening to bad advice that he didn’t need phosphorous and sulphur, and this was costing him dearly in terms of production losses. He now needed to apply capital amounts of phosphorous, sulphur and potassium which are the most expensive parts of a fertiliser programme, all in a year when the milk solids pay-out dropped significantly. However getting these major elements corrected in the soil will result in extra pasture growth which will probably work out to be around 5c/kg DM which is only a third of the cost of artifi-

cial nitrogen, a fifth of the cost of palm kernel and a tenth of the cost of grains or meals.

I recently spoke to two sheep and beef farmers, both in their sixties who have been farming all of their lives who applied trace elements to their farms for the first time last autumn. Both farmers had annually applied superphosphate and had good phosphorous levels, so last year focussed on getting other elements corrected in the soil.

Significant improvement

Consequently both farmers have seen significant improvements in both ewe and lamb performance which they attribute to the better mineral levels in their pastures over winter and spring. Historically they have had the odd lamb with swayback, which is a clinical sign of copper deficiency, and underlying these symptoms there will have been a lot more subclinical copper deficiency. Copper is often ignored as a fertiliser input since it is usually the most expensive trace element to apply, costing around $25-$30/ha, and may need to be applied for a couple of years to build soil levels, but it is an essential element required by both plants and animals so should be applied if found to be low.

Testing the full range of major and trace elements through soil and herbage tests is the best way to find out where best to spend the fertiliser dollar for vibrant pastures and healthy stock. Just focussing on major elements is only part of the picture and can impact on animal performance in particular. Conversely an over-emphasis on lime and trace elements can be disastrous for long term pasture productivity.

Robin Boom

CPAg MBSPC

Independent Agronomy & Soil Fertility Consultant

Page 38

AUTUMN FERTILISER

Growing biological kiwifruit in a Psa-V environment After a wet and cold spring in Katikati, and weekly applications of EF Photo-Synthetic-Advancement Brew, biological kiwifruit grower Keith Holdom feels the crop is “chugging along nicely through the summer”.

Makers of Biological g Fertilisers We make fertiliser mixes suited to your soil using the Reams Soil Test (which shows what nutrients in the soil are available for plants).

Our fertilisers nourish your soil & feed you microbes, enabling them to efficiently cycle nutrients. We’ll get your soil working for you again!

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Vines are looking good on Keith Holdom’s Katikati orchard.

That’s not to say he’s sitting around with his feet up with the dry weather conditions. “To keep on top of Psa, growers need to keep at it even in the summer.”

For Keith, this means monthly applications of EF Photo-Synthetic-Advancement Brew with some added food for the bugs, such as kelp. But if the weather turns wet and humid, he will adapt his applications to suit.

EF Photo-Synthetic-Advancement Brew is a foliar fertiliser that contains Pseudomonas fluorescens, Combo 12 and microbe food.

EF Combo 12 is a blend of 12 beneficial soil and leaf bacteria and fungi. Monthly applications during summer increase the beneficial microbial diversity on the vine foliage and in the soil.

It’s important to apply food for the microbes, such as EF Liquid Kelp or EF Fish Plus, at the same time.

During summer EF Vegetative, which contains a little kelp, can be applied as the microbe food because it will not stain the fruit.

Keith has been working with Environmental Fertilisers for a number of years to improve the availability of essential plant nutrients in the soil through solid

fertilisers and recently foliar fertiliser applications.

Improving the fertility of the soil helps to keep the vines healthy and produces “better tasting fruit”.

To monitor the plant availability of the soil nutrients, such as nitrogen, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium, monthly Reams Soil Testing have been carried out.

These tests are quick to carry out, affordable, and allow the grower to see if the vines need a foliar feed to keep them in peak condition.

Environmental Fertilisers have a number of Zespri Crop Protection approved foliar fertilisers: EF Reproductive Foliar to maximise flowering capacity of the plant, EF Vegetative Foliar to improve brix levels, provide calcium and help fill the fruit, EF Cal Phos – a liquid calcium phosphate foliar to improve brix, taste and dry matter – and EF Cal Bor, a micronised liquid boron to help improve flowering and pollination.

Keith feels that “biologically grown kiwifruit tastes a lot better”.

“It does take a bit of work, but it is worth it in the long run.”

KIWIFRUIT

Page 39

Handing over the reins Price and at Capital Tractors performance Capital Tractors & Machinery at Barkes Corner in Pyes Pa, Tauranga, has gained a stunning reputation under the ownership of David Mackereth and Kay Craig.

But after 21 years’ ownership they are handing over the reins to Reg and Michelle Hedges, who are taking over the well-known and well-regarded business.

David and Kay have enjoyed being a multi-franchise dealership of new and used tractors and a huge range of machinery and mowers to the Bay of Plenty area.

Starting his tractor career as an apprentice mechanic

Reg and Michelle Hedges (left) are the new owners of Capital Tractors taking over from David Mackereth and Kay Craig.

with Gatmans Tractors in Siverdale in 1963, David worked for some 30 years mainly as a field service mechanic progressing to manager before purchasing Capital Tractors with Kay in 1993.

Now David and Kay have decided it’s time to retire and leave the business in the safe hands of new owners Reg and Michelle.

Reg and Michelle say it will “be business as usual” – with David and Kay handing over a great operation with such good bones – and all existing friendly and highly-skilled staff staying on-board.

“We intend to continue in the same wonderful vein that the business has been run on previously.”

Reg and Michelle Hedges say customer service is their key focus for Capital Tractors – and they’re really looking forward to getting to know all of the dairy farmers, orchardists, horticulturalists, lifestyle block owners.

“We believe customer service is paramount and needs to be done with integrity – and maintaining Capital Tractors’ great reputation is everything to us,” say Reg and Michelle.

The couple, who have two daughters and extended family in Tauranga, come from owning a PlaceMakers Joint Venture in Morrinsville and have also been sharemilkers on dairy farms in the Waikato and have previously owned lifestyle blocks.

“We’re excited to have purchased such a well-known, robust, iconic business,” says Reg, who is a hunting and fishing man, and is looking forward to pursuing these interests in the Bay. “We’ve started a new Facebook page, so feel free to have a look at what we are up to!”

Delivering ‘lean pricing’ and value Seeka Kiwifruit Industries Ltd has laid down the gauntlet to other post-harvest operators with its highly competitive base pricing structure for the 2015 kiwifruit season says Seeka Chief Executive Michael Franks.

The new rates -- announced just before Christmas -- reflect savings for growers from Seeka’s improved technology and the delivery of scale benefits, combined with lean operating structures.

“Pricing in the post-harvest sector remains very competitive and Seeka, as a large grower and postharvest company has worked hard to deliver lean pricing and a value offering to its supplying growers.

We are delivering the benefits of our scale and technology.”

The new rates include a reduction in the base price per tray for pack-

ing conventional Hayward Green kiwifruit. Other base pricing for packing and coolstorage has been held unchanged from 2014, except for a small increase in the packing price for Zespri G3 (SunGold) to cover the cost of capacity increases to handle anticipated larger volumes of the new variety.

Michael says growers will also benefit from the second year of Seeka’s Loyalty Programme, where growers who have agreed to supply Seeka for the next two years will be allocated shares in the listed company at the rate of $0.10 per tray packed each year. And in another innovative development, Seeka has taken out additional hail insurance covering its growers, providing an extra $3 per tray cover, less a 10 per cent deductible.

Seeka, New Zealand’s largest

kiwifruit grower, estimates it will be processing approximately 18 million trays of green and 4 million trays of SunGold in the 2015 harvest season, which typically begins in March.

Grower Services General Manager Simon Wells says Seeka has transitioned from being a seasonal business to one operating every day of the year. Seeka is currently working through its avocado programme, with kiwiberry commencing in February. The recently acquired Glassfields business operates daily with its Sumifru banana, pineapple and papaya programmes, wholesale and retail services, and ripening operations.

“Our size, diversified operations and investment in technology, have allowed us to deliver the best offering to our growers.”

Why more growers are choosing Seeka 1. Lower base pack prices starting from $1.15 for Hayward CK

2. Competitive coolstorage rates 3. $0.10 per tray in shares by joining Seeka’s loyalty scheme

4. Leading class 2 returns from SeekaFresh

5. $3 per tray hail insurance to better protect your investment Call Seeka today to secure our best deal ever in 2015

07 573 0303 www.seeka.co.nz PHONE

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.

NOW

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2017

Page 40

KIWIFRUIT

Growers to vote on Kiwifruit Industry Strategy From February 20, kiwifruit growers will have one month to vote on a new kiwifruit industry strategy developed over the last 14 months through extensive industry consultation.

This consultation generated more than 500 submissions from individual growers and groups to the process. Seven independent experts were also used to inform the development of the strategy. The result is a strategy that has been developed by kiwifruit growers for kiwifruit growers.

The strategy is a sustainable and long-term plan designed to maximise wealth creation for New Zealand kiwifruit growers and New Zealand. It expressly recognises that the New Zealand kiwifruit industry must act responsibly and ethically on all economic, sustainability, environmental, social and regulatory issues for the benefit of New Zealand kiwifruit growers and the wider New Zealand community.

Consumer focus

The strategy recognises the reasons why the New Zealand kiwifruit industry has been so successful and further develops them. There is a particular focus on ensuring the industry must always deliver what the consumer wants. Paying close attention to market signals will translate into premium returns.

However, it is important to do more than listen closely to what the consumer wants – demand must be created by promotion.

Informing consumers about the health benefits of kiwifruit and extensive promotion in our key overseas markets and creating demand for Zespri branded kiwifruit is also part of the strategy.

It is designed to ensure the entire supply chain is focused on delivering the highest quality fruit in the best condition to consumers.

Integral to the in-market and consumer focus of the strategy is research and development. Particularly the breeding of new kiwifruit cultivars that satisfy what consumers want, and that can be grown, packed, stored, shipped and distributed to achieve optimal outcomes.

Marketing structure

These success factors are all made possible by the kiwifruit industry’s marketing structure that has one main exporter, Zespri.

The promotion of kiwifruit, the continued Zespri brand development, the integrated supply chain and research and development are all made possible by the kiwifruit industry’s marketing structure. Although Zespri is the main exporter of kiwifruit, other exporters working in support of the kiwifruit industry’s marketing strategy, are identified by the strategy as an area for further development to enhance profitability.

The strategy also ensures an effective division of responsibility between Zespri and growers and post-harvest operators. Zespri is focused on the market and doing everything possible to achieve the best results in the overseas markets.

This includes ensuring growers get clear market signals so they

can deliver to Zespri what consumers want and will pay for.

Onshore growers are focused on growing what consumers will pay for and, through the supply chain. Post-harvest will deliver that fruit as required to Zespri for shipping overseas. To streamline this and make the onshore processes more effective, the strategy rationalises the onshore groups and enhances growers input into supply chain decisions.

Strategy goals

The strategy achieves its goals of continuing and enhancing the above success factors by: • Ensuring a high performing marketing structure.

• Establishing enduring grower ownership and control of the New Zealand kiwifruit industry.

• Strengthening industry transparency and commercial flexibility.

• Creating a regulatory structure that supports the sustainable, long-term growth of the New Zealand kiwifruit industry.

Voting opens February 20 and closes at 12 noon on March 20. For the new strategy to be implemented a significant majority of New Zealand kiwifruit growers will need to support it in this referendum If you are a kiwifruit grower and you have not received a voting paper, contact Electionz on 0508 666 100.

Growers are the reason for success On the back of a bumper season, Apata Group Limited is claiming its customers are the reason for its success.

Last year was one of the busiest ever for the Bay of Plenty coolstore and packing company.

It is currently the largest packer of organic kiwifruit in New Zealand and has been the country’s largest avocado harvester and packer for years.

Damian Young, Apata Group Ltd’s operation manager is impressed with the quality of fruit Apata orchardists are producing.

KIWIFRUIT

Page 41 New storage facilities under construction at Aongatete will increase its storage capacity by 40 per cent.

Building new facilities to meet industry growth To service industry growth and more accurately meet the differing coolstorage demands of green and the gold fruit, Aongatete Coolstores Ltd is building signiďŹ cant additional storage facilities, says managing director Allan Dawson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Three new rooms with â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;state-ofthe-artâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; refrigeration and individual pallet racking will increase our longterm storage capability by 40 per

cent,â&#x20AC;? says Allan. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Zespri has signalled that with the crop projections over the next few years both green and gold fruit will on average need to be stored for longer; and these new stores are designed to do just that while maximising product life.â&#x20AC;?

Allan says Aongatete has been encouraged to make this investment by many loyal growers who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wish to see their fruit compromised by future storage bottlenecks. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They also rightly believe that on-site storage is the best way to monitor and manage the fruit to the best advantage.â&#x20AC;?

The 2015 harvest will see Aongatete further expand its inventory of plastic bins.

Last seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trial proved these bins provided better pack-outs of exportable fruit, were easier to handle and were more hygienic. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Aongatete has always achieved high pack-outs per 100kg delivered as well as a transparent analysis that accurately reconciles in kilograms the fate of all fruit, but if the industry could settle on a common bin, such as the plastic Hort bin, then many of the pack-out comparisons would become simpler. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This does not mean however

OGR amongst industry best â&#x20AC;&#x153;More importantly, our orchard gate returns â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the amount our growers are paid - were among the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best,â&#x20AC;? says Apata Group Ltd managing director Stuart Weston. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s especially true for green and organic kiwifruit.â&#x20AC;?

Stuart says these results are due largely to customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; top-notch orchard management and commitment to quality. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Basically, our growers are making us look good. So itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only fair we start the New Year off properly, with a sincere and hearty thank you to them.â&#x20AC;? Of course he admits his company is playing its part, too. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The vast majority of our growers have been with us for years because they know their fruit receives kid glove treatment at Apata. We care about quality as much as they do.â&#x20AC;?

Apata has two of the avocado industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest and most technically-advanced packing operations.

Recently-formed marketing partnerships are also forging lucrative new export markets. Both kiwifruit and avocado

growers beneďŹ t from on-site laboratory services, grower support and technical advice, orchard management options and expertise in storage and shipping. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re at the front of the pack because we constantly strive to provide the best possible service. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not interested in being the biggest or the loudest but weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re determined to do the very best job we can.â&#x20AC;?

This is why, says Stuart, the Bay of Plenty facilities attract growers from Northland, Waikato, Hawkes Bay, Wanganui and Manawatu as well as locals.

Apata runs regular ďŹ eld days and information forums that encourage debate and collaboration with fellow growers and industry exports. Each supplying grower is also allocated a dedicated grower services representative. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This helps us listen to growers, represent their interests and recommend services or technical solutions if required. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the least we can do for our customers and of course we want them to keep putting great quality fruit in our hands.â&#x20AC;?

that growers should then not always demand an accurate fruit weight for every bin delivered to the packhouse.â&#x20AC;?

Aongatete leads the industry in its experience with near infra-red grading.

This technology has proved useful for a range of segregation parameters and with Zespriâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cooperation the company has developed a very useful dry matter segregation model.

This model proved it could work on G3 last season.

It can easily salvage fruit from a very low DM line or ensure the variation in any line is minimal.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our Hayward orchards have excellent loads of well pollinated fruit and the G3 orchards, while perhaps a little lighter for this precocious variety, show that the balance of load versus dry matter may well turn out to be about right.â&#x20AC;?

Why Aongatete?

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First woman on Zespri board Teresa Ciprian has become the ďŹ rst woman to be appointed to the Zespri board.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;This technology, as well as contributing to grower returns, has the potential to provide our customers with a more consistent eating experience.â&#x20AC;?

Allan says the company is encouraged by the quality crops that are being grown this season.

Teresa Ciprian has been appointed to the Zespri Board.

Zespri chairman Peter McBride says Teresa has a lot of relevant experience to bring to the board from her 12 years at senior levels in Danone, a Fortune 500 company present in more than 140 countries with turnover of â&#x201A;Ź21 billion last year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As the kiwifruit industry heads into a period of strong growth, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even more important that we have a broad range of strong governance skills on the board.â&#x20AC;?

Teresa says her passions for agriculture, food-related businesses, brand New Zealand, consumer brands and consumers combine in Zespri. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Zespri is a strong brand and a New Zealand business with signiďŹ cant global potential. The industry has a goal of increasing export revenue to $3 billion by 2025 and I welcome the opportunity to contribute this success.â&#x20AC;?

Teresa has a background in the commercialisation, innovation, marketing and business development of dairy products, functional beverages and other foods.

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HORTICULTURE

Page 42

Ride-on mowers that cut the mustard at home or in business If you’re after a premium quality ride-on mower for home or commercial use then head to the Stihl shops at Whakatane, Tauranga or Waihi to check out their range of BigDog zero-turn mowers.

Stihl Shop Whakatane owner Paul Henricksen says with eight models to choose from – suiting the lifestyler to the commercial business – they can achieve the finest cut while being easy to use and safe on difficult terrains.

“BigDog zero-turn mowers have made a home in New Zealand and these

premium quality machines can mow up to twice as fast as a regular ride-on, so you’ll spend less time mowing,” says Paul.

BigDog mowers come in eight models from 21 to 35 horsepower, with cutting deck widths from 36-72 inches to suit varying requirements – which Paul says make them very popular.

“They are gentle enough to mow the lawn and tough enough to mow the orchard or tanker track.”

A big feature is the BigDog’s zero turn mechanism has a much lower centre of gravity, allowing you to mow with complete control up, down and along slopes that are dangerous or impossible with a traditional ride-on.

BigDog zero-turn mowers are gentle enough for lawns, but tough enough for tanker tracks.

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• Rugged fabricated steel frame and deck.

Right into Outdoor Power Equipment STIHL SHOP™ WHAKATANE 7/11 King Street, Whakatane Ph: 07 308 8658 STIHL SHOP™ TAURANGA 154 Elizabeth Street, Tauranga Ph: 07 577 0747 WAIHI OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT 36 Kenny Street, Waihi Ph: 07 8196 www.stihlshop.co.nz

“All zero turns are not created equal. To drive the best, test drive a BigDog,” says Paul.

Plus, the convenient integrated park brake (simply return the control levers to the neutral position to halt, then spread them to engage) ensures a BigDog is safely parked anytime a rider exits the mower, even on a hill.

Paul says all mowers come pre-delivery serviced ready to go.

“There’s also a free on-site demonstration available to people at all three shops and we do an after-sales services.”

A nationwide network of highly trained dealers provide servicing and spare parts backup, and all models are covered by an industry leading up to seven-year limited warranty.

Interest-free finance packages are available.

Compost that improves pasture performance

Composting on a large scale is carried out by HG Leach, creating compost ideal for application on farms.

Compost really works to increase on farm performance, says Mike Harrison, Rural Solutions Adviser from HG Leach.

“It is a well-established fact that compost works in the vegetable garden. Most of us will buy some bags from a hardware store or a trailer load from a local garden store and dig it in before spring planting.”

However, the question often asked is how does compost work on farm? Mike says the best way to explain is to start at the beginning.

“We divert green waste from the Waikato and Bay of Plenty out of landfills and into our HG Leach composting operation. The green waste is shredded and mixed with some special ingredients high in extra nutrients.

“We then lay it out in huge rows to start the composting process. The rows are temperature monitored, as we need to ensure any seeds or pathogens are sterilised by heat.”

Air is blown up through the rows to aid the composting process. The rows are turned regularly over a four month period then the compost is stockpiled prior to screening.

Reap the benef its of organic compost In a recent application on a maize block, 20T/Ha of compost was supplied, delivered and spread at an approximate cost of $1500/Ha. Bob Longhurst from AgResearch analysed the soil test results one year later and discovered a positive benefit of $2500/Ha in plant available nutrients. That’s $1000.00/Ha FREE. (Costs and results vary depending on location, crop, soil and other variables)

Compost applied to your orchard has many benefits: • Adds nutrients in a slow releasing manner ideal for long term fruit production.

• Helps resist soil compaction, increases water holding capacity and worm activity.

• Increases microbial activity which releases nutrients to plant available forms.

In addition to our standard compost our new Organifert Compost (limited supply) has even more nutrients including Calcium, the active ingredient in Lime.

Pre order your compost now to guarantee delivery on time. Call Mike Harrison – 0800 4 LEACH (0800 453 224) or 0274 755 932 for more information including analysis, rates and pricing.

www.hgleach.co.nz www.facebook.com/hgleach

Greenwaste is collected from the Waikato and Bay of Plenty by HG Leach using this grapple truck, and transported to the company’s composting site.

“We screen the compost to take out anything over 14mm to ensure a consistent, easy to spread product.

Now it’s ready for delivery.”

So how does compost improve on farm performance?

Mike says in many ways, compost adds organic matter which helps soils hold more water in dry conditions.

“It also helps soils resist pugging in wet weather which we all know is very bad for soil quality.

“What many of us don’t know is that many of the nutrients in the soil are in forms that are not available to the plant. Converting then to plant available forms is the job of worms, fungi and soil microbes.

“Where do we find these? In compost. Compost also helps worms thrive and a key component of soil quality is a healthy worm population, these guys also help aerate the soil, and that’s important too.”

HORTICULTURE

Fewer animals results in increased output The required Nitrate N leaching levels that dairy farms will have to meet in future will be calculated by Overseer, and the model at present assumes all urine contains the same concentration – regardless of the type of feed eaten.

To meet the allowable leaching levels the focus will need to shift from overall milk production from everexpanding herds to fewer cows/herds and maximising individual cow production.

Even in our own days of dairy farming this seemed a logical idea, but met with no support at discussion groups or from peers.

Getting more cows was the focus, even though supplements at that time consisted of no more than hay or grass silage.

Every kilogram of pasture grown must be eaten; and if not eaten by one, then by another. In many cases this resulted in pasture being grazed too hard, and taking longer to recover.

With the advent of maize silage and other easily procurable supplements, these became the wherewithal to get supposed maximum production from more cows.

The income from this ‘extra’ production was assumed to be sufficient to pay for the supplements.

‘Production’ was the word of the day, and ‘profitability’ relied on ever-increasing payouts.

The most financially successful farmers this season are those growing the most pasture and grazing it at the optimum time for high levels of per-animal production.

The future success of New Zealand’s pastoral farming lies in our ability to fully feed highly efficient animals on finest quality low-cost pasture.

The grass-fed food produced is best quality, and with sound marketing and selling a premium price will be paid for it.

Until this extremely low payout season, when the topic of farming with fewer animals has been raised, the immediate and understandable objection is that less individual and overall production is not an option.

But a number of farmers have already found that reducing animal numbers actually results in increased output, as less feed is required for animal maintenance, with more going directly into meat and milk production.

Through existing breeding and selection programmes, the animals capable of exceptional production from pasture alone are already available.

However, the first step to maximising that potential is ensuring a plentiful supply of high quality pasture – and that starts with the soil.

Highest pasture production comes from the best soil. There are three aspects to soil fertility – nutrient levels, physical structures, and biological activity. All are equally important.

Intensive grazing can be hard on all these soil aspects. While much is written about keeping nutrient levels up, and avoiding pugging, the need for continuous robust biological activity is often overlooked.

Thus a nutrient programme – which not only supplies phosphorus, potassium and sulphur but also contains biological inputs – can allow the soil itself to create exceptional pasture growth without reliance on fertiliser nitrogen.

Eco-Logic Soil Improvement has data on performance measures, pasture, animal and total production from a number of farms during more than a decade.

Therefore, it can formulate individual programmes for properties to provide the basis for steadily increasing production with reduced and acceptable nutrient losses.

For more information, call Peter on 0800 843 809.

Page 43

Careers in horticulture take centre stage Career opportunities in the horticultural industry for young people and the Bay of Plenty region took centre stage at the Careers and Transition Education Conference in Tauranga.

More than 600 delegates from around New Zealand, the largest CATE Conference ever, attended the threeday event in November.

There were teachers as well as delegates from the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment, Ministry for Primary Industries and many from the wide ranging industry training organisations.

New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated business analyst Kate Longman says the conference was an excellent opportunity to showcase the Bay of Plenty and to promote the opportunities in the horticultural industry for young people.

“NZKGI, Zespri International, Compac Sorting Equipment, NZ Avocado, and Pipfruit NZ joined together and contributed to the conference to enhance the profile of the ‘Growing Industries’ amongst the delegates,” says Kate.

“From the provision of the master of ceremonies, to an interactive trade stand, to two primary industry focused workshops, to the logistics of having more than 30 industry representatives from around the Western Bay from 17 different organisations attend the conference to talk about their careers and the opportunities in primary industries for our young people; all contributed to raising the profile of the horticultural industry.”

The ‘Growing Industries’ trade stand achieved a high profile at the CATE Conference and it’s been recommended to the Horticulture Industry Forum that this is replicated by horticulture businesses and organisations in the Manawatu region where the conference is held next year.

“The Bay of Plenty CATE Conference Committee, and their chair Jo Neal from Papamoa College, were fantastic to work with and enabled the horticulture industry to make an impact at the conference.”

The Ministry for Primary Industries, Comvita, BayGold, EastPack, BoP Regional Council, DairyNZ, Horticulture NZ, Ballance Agri-nutrients, Plant & Food Research, Bay of Plenty Polytechnic, Primary ITO, Young Country Magazine, Fonterra, Mountpac, BNZ, and KVH, all sent representatives to connect with the delegates and got some great feedback.

“This feedback will help us develop our connection with the next generation of industry representatives currently in secondary schools,” says Kate.

A recent donation from a grower through the Acorn Foundation will enable production of a ‘Kiwifruit Workbook’ for secondary schools, an idea supported by delegates at the conference.

“This workbook will support NCEA Level 3 Agricultural and Horticultural Science units that fit under the achievement standards.

Sometimes life and career and education choices can seem like a game of snakes as ladders, as those attending the CATE Conference in Tauranga discovered.

“Teachers generally produce the activity for the units and this is where NZKGI, utilising Zespri and industry information, will be providing the context and resource for teachers.

“Ultimately, enabling students to pass the achievement standards while learning about the depth of our industry.”

Many of the conference delegates were also interested to hear about NZKGI’s initiatives in the creation, on an ongoing basis, of permanent employment for at risk youth.

NZKGI has facilitated industry partnerships where nine employers have

engaged in nine partnerships with Work and Income and have trained 65 people in pre-employment.

This has resulted in about 52 people being employed in permanent onorchard roles in the second half of this year.

“New Zealand kiwifruit growers are committed to the getting more Kiwis into work and plan on continuing this work into the New Year,” says Kate.

If you have any queries, or would like to be involved in NZKGI’s labour initiatives or careers promotion, please contact info@nzkgi.org.nz

Page 44

RURAL DRIVER

Dream comes true driving Miss Ferguson She may be 59, but Miss Ferguson is one of those classic beauties who still manages to stop traffic, or at least bring it to a crawl.

For 30 odd years Whitianga man Graham Murrell has dreamt of the day he could drive off into the sunset with Miss Ferguson – now he’ll be getting his wish this March.

The lady in red is in fact a 1956 Massey Ferguson tractor the 53-year-old man has been lovingly and painstakingly restoring since November of 2012.

His plan is to drive Miss Ferguson all the way from Whitianga to Bluff – a massive 1700km or thereabouts journey – in a bid to raise funds for the Whitianga Community Services Trust.

“I’ve wanted to do this for 30

years but never had the time, so now I’m making the time,” says Graham.

“I’ve spent years driving tractors on other people’s farms; I’d often dream of jumping on one and driving off into the sunset.

“So now I’ve decided to do something for myself and get to help the trust out at the same time, which is bloody brilliant.”

Graham adds: “A lot of people walk, run and bike the length of this country, so I’m going to take my vintage tractor and go for a drive”.

Not being mechanically-minded and with a wallet that’s seen better days, Graham has used that good ol’ Kiwi number 8 wire ingenuity to transform Miss Ferguson into the beauty you see today.

Many people in the Whitianga community have also chipped in

with advice, expertise and help, which has been hugely appreciated

by Graham.

Recycling

Much of the project is about recycling, says Graham, like the tray on the back of the trailer which was made from recycled steel.

“It’s been cut up with a hacksaw because I couldn’t afford an angle grinder and I swapped my push bike for some someone to weld it up.

“I also had to re-wire the whole tractor, which I couldn’t afford. So I used old extension cords from the dump and from friends, sat down, pulled them all apart and just about re-wired the whole thing.

“I’m on a bit of tight budget,” says Graham.

The back of the tray also features stickers from a number of local

Whitianga man Graham Murrell will be driving Miss Ferguson – his restored 1956 Massey Ferguson tractor – from Whitianga to Bluff in March. businesses sponsoring Graham’s massive journey, which is he’s very grateful and appreciative of.

Miss Ferguson is road-registered, being given the big tick of approval from Police, and she now features new brakes, head and tail lights, and indicators.

She goes a whopping 20km/h and Graham took her on a road test recently, driving from Whitianga to Tairua, Kopu and Coromandel, with the roughly 200km journey taking 10 hours.

What you won’t find on Miss Ferguson is a windscreen or a canopy, says Graham.

“People ask me about bad weather and I’m of the opinion that you just harden up and get on with it.

“Once I start I’m not stopping, I don’t care if its snow or a hail storm, I need to do this.”

Graham will hit the road early morning on March 1 and is aiming to complete the 1700km journey by March 21.

On track

While he’s on track, Graham says there are a couple of loose ends that need to be tied up, like sourcing some hi-vis gear and ear muffs.

He’s also hoping to avoid hotels and backpackers, wishing to find places at people’s homes to stay at along the way.

“I’ve been there, done that. I want to make this a journey rather than make it just a trip and would love to meet people along the way.

“I’m also really needing a support person who can make it for either the whole journey of for parts of it, but I don’t have the funds for petrol yet. But watch this space.”

When asked her first thought when

she learned of Graham’s efforts, Whitianga Community Services Trust social services manager Jenny Wolf says she “thought he was nuts”.

“The more we got to know Graham that definitely changed,” says Jenny. “He is such a loveable character and he just lives and breathes his passion. I have total confidence he’ll get there.”

Immensely grateful

Jenny says any funds raised by Graham will go directly to the trust’s elderly services division and is immensely grateful for his support.

The trust receives 45 per cent government funding, with the rest they have to source themselves.

It can be a struggle, for example, in 2014 the trust closed its doors for one day a week during a six-month period.

This allowed them to continue providing services to their elderly clients but meant staff lost a day’s pay for six months.

“Supporting the elderly role is something we traditionally do well, we keep people out of hospital through our support officer.

“In our community we have about 80 people constantly on our books, and at least three-quarters have no family in this area, so they’re very much reliant on our services.

Jenny adds: “We just try to meet the community’s need, then find the funds to support that need”.

For more information and updates about Graham and Miss Ferguson’s epic journey see: www.facebook.com/ridingmissferguson.murrell For more information about the Whitianga Community Services Trust see: www.whitiangasocialservices.co.nz

By David Tauranga

RURAL DRIVER

Page 45

Polaris establishes NZ headquarters After managing its New Zealand business remotely from its Australian head office for the last 15 years, Polaris has announced its biggest investment in the New Zealand market to date with the establishment of Polaris New Zealand as a stand-alone subsidiary from January, 2015.

Headquartered in Auckland, Polaris New Zealand will manage the Polaris, Victory and Indian brands in New Zealand and will oversee further investments in product development, customer service and support to lead the brand through its next exciting phase of growth.

“The growth we’ve seen in 2014 is the result of the long-term investments Polaris has made both locally and abroad over the past decade,” says Polaris New Zealand country manager Alan Collins.

“These investments have resulted in us establishing Polaris New Zealand as a stand-alone subsidiary in Auckland to better cater for

the local market and improve our support, service and bring us closer to the voice of our customers.

“We are an aggressive growth company built around innovation and product development. Not just product development, in fact, but also the development of entirely new markets.

“The global economy has seen some lean times over the past decade, however Polaris has always maintained and grown its focus on product innovation and outstand-

ing customer experience through thick and thin.

“We now have 15 models with ROPS; we have the Sportsman ACE, we have the Polaris UTE, which has been designed for New Zealand, and we have products that range from 50cc to 1000cc.

“We are better equipped than ever to provide practical solutions for New Zealand consumers across agricultural, recreational and fleet applications.”

Free guide to Nga Haerenga bike trials A guide to the more than 23 routes which make up the Nga Haerenga, the New Zealand Cycle Trail national project, is now available.

The New Zealand Cycle Trail Guide 2015 is published by AA Traveller, available free and contains information about the trails, including maps, advice on trail sections, section grades, time to allow, elevation and trail quality.

It is a collaborative effort between the teams at AA Traveller and the New Zealand Cycle Trail organisation. “Every year more Kiwis are getting mobile on bikes and are in increasing numbers incorporating

them into their outdoor activities,” says AA Traveller General Manager Moira Penman.

“Nga Haerenga, the New Zealand Cycle Trail provides a huge range of options for cyclists – both new to the game and experienced – to get out and explore significant parts of our country that are often unseen by most.” The guide is available at AA Centres, iSite locations, selected accommodation and attraction providers along with Avanti stores and Avanti partners.

Information on all 23 rides in Nga Haerenga, the New Zealand Cycle Trail national project can also be found at aatravel.co.nz/cycletrail

116 Hewletts Road, Mount Maunganui.

Tel: 07 578 6017

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EDUCATION

Page 46

Course ‘practical alternative’ to school Today, the opportunities for young people wanting to leave school and get a job without any qualifications are limited, says Agriculture New Zealand's Mark Goss.

However, AgNZ’s Introductory Rural Skills Programme provides an opportunity for those keen on a rural career.

Paiti Herewini gain skills to find employment in the dairy industry through Agriculture New Zealand courses.

“Agriculture New Zealand, a PGG Wrightson business, has limited places on our courses that start on the February 2, 2015, in various locations within the North Island.

“The course is a practical positive alternative to school that allows 16 to 19 year olds to continue their learning and achieve nationally recognised qualifications that can lead to employment, or further training.”

And, in some locations there are also limited places for adults to enrol in this programme.

Introductory Rural Skills is a mix of

classroom learning and practical on-farm training that covers a wide range of farming knowledge and skills including quads and tractors; livestock handling and treatment; milking; fencing and farm maintenance; and agrichemicals as well as embedded literacy and numeracy and a wide range of life and employment skills.

"Selection is based on attitude, not on an applicant's academic record," Mark says.

Interest for the limited places should be registered quickly, just pick up the phone and call the Freephone number 0800 475 455.

Offering young men opportunties

THE SCHOOL’S BOARDING HOUSE INVITES APPLICATIONS FOR 2016 With a vision of pre-eminence in boys’ secondary education, Auckland Grammar School is proud to offer young men: • • •

An unsurpassed state school education A dual academic pathway of NCEA or Cambridge International Examinations A unique combination of academic challenge, sporting endeavour, cultural richness and tradition

Located directly adjacent to the School, Tibbs House provides accommodation, study and recreational facilities for 120 boarders.

Young men are supported by eight full-time masters, offering expertise in a wide range of teaching subjects and activities, as well as nightly study guidance.

To apply, please download an enrolment application at www.ags. school.nz/at-grammar/ boarding/ or contact Mr Daniel Oram, Director of Boarding, at d.oram@ags.school.nz or (09) 623 5432.

Tibbs House 87 Mountain Road Epsom Auckland 1023 New Zealand www.ags.school.nz

Since its establishment in 1869, Auckland Grammar School’s vision has been for all of the young men who attend the school to reach their full potential in all aspects of their lives.

Today, the school retains the traditional values that it was founded on and it remains committed to offering young men the best opportunity to succeed in the classroom, on the sports field and in musical, cultural and social activities.

Nearly a century after Auckland Grammar School was founded, a boarding hostel was opened opposite the school in 1962 to allow students from outside the local area to benefit from attending Auckland Grammar School.

Named after the school’s fourth headmaster – J W Tibbs, who was headmaster from 1893 to 1922 – Tibbs House opened its doors to 46 boys.

The roll of Tibbs has now grown to 120 young men.

“The school’s boarding establishment offers a blend of excellence and opportunity to young men who live

Did you miss out on NCEA Level 2 at school? Do you like working outdoors? Are you interested in Agriculture or Horticulture?

Our free 8 month Introductory Rural Skills course is suitable for school leavers, unemployed people and farm or horticulture workers who didn’t achieve NCEA level 2 at school.

Introductory Rural Skills Full-time courses starting in February 2015!

Freephone 0800 475 455 www.agnz.co.nz

You’ll learn about dairy farming, sheep & beef farming or horticulture and gain literacy and numeracy credits while working towards NCEA Level 2 and National Qualifications in agriculture or horticulture.

The specially designed programme begins with a block course, and once ‘Farm Ready’, your training continues on a commercial farm. Other courses can give you ‘the piece of paper’ ... our ‘point of difference’ is that you get to experience the reality of a working

beyond the school’s zone. By attending Tibbs, and thereby Auckland Grammar School, a whole new world opens up for our young men,” says Director of Boarding Daniel Oram.

Located at the foot of Mount Eden, Tibbs House provides modern and comfortable facilities which make Tibbs House one of the leading boarding institutions in the country. Boys have comfortable rooms with no more than five to a room at junior level and even fewer at senior level. Additionally, an excellent and varied level of food is provided every day by contract caterers, Eurest.

In addition to excellent facilities, eight full-time teaching masters provide daily supervision, pastoral guidance and assistance during prep sessions, while two matrons meet maternal and medical needs.

Tibbs House boarders are expected to conform to the highest standards of behaviour and maturity, to participate widely in school life and to develop into well-educated and well-adjusted young men. “The friendships formed at Tibbs House are lifelong and their experiences will be richly rewarding.”

life ‘on-farm’, with the added bonus of being introduced to potential employers.

The programme includes: • The Rural Industry • Looking after yourself • Keeping safe at work • Quad Bikes & Tractors • Fencing • Weather and water • Agrichemicals • Writing CVs and job application letters • Dairy, Sheep & Beef or Horticulture module • Literacy & numeracy • Communication skills Course is approved for student allowance, for those who meet the StudyLink criteria.

Apply now for a place on our next intake!

Helping grow the country

EDUCATION

Page 47

Tauranga’s first independent school opens cipal to see first-hand this state of the art school. Or drop in at any time – everyone is welcome.

Chris says ACG Tauranga is the only school in the Bay of Plenty totally based on the Cambridge Curriculum, starting from primary school.

“The Pyes Pa school, situated on a superb 14.8 hectare site, will “ACG Tauranga is committed offer seamless education from to high quality education in the pre-school to Year 13. It will Bay of Plenty, and offers a new open with Years 1 to 9 and will choice for families in the area.” increase incrementally to reach Enrolments are now open and Year 13 in 2019.” will remain open throughout ACG Tauranga is secular, uniACG Tauranga will begin with Year formed and co-educational, and the year. Interested families are invited to contact ACG Tauranga 1-9 students and increase incrementally is for all students – there is no to reach Year 13 in 2019 for a personal tour with the prinentrance exam. Students attend

Bay of Plenty families are warmly invited to see for themselves Tauranga’s first fully independent school, which opens in February 2015 says principal Chris Cottell-Mayhew.

Station life great for family

ACG Tauranga from around the region - buses are in place from Rotorua, Katikati and Te Puke.

“Although new to the Bay of Plenty, ACG Tauranga offers a tried and tested model which has a proven record of success with its four Auckland schools, all with excellent results in the Cambridge International Examinations.

“ACG Tauranga focuses on sound education practice: world-class teach-

ers, small classrooms, one-on-one education, and three-way communication between students, staff and parents. The school offers individualised programmes tailored to each student.”

ACG Tauranga’s 2015 foundation students will have a special role in terms of leadership and contributing towards the culture of the school, Chris says.

ACG School Tauranga

NOW OPEN! ACG Tauranga is an exciting new venture committed to high quality, private education in the Bay of Plenty.

Christina and Sam Bunny and their three young children are enjoying life on Landcorp’s Rangitaiki Station.

Christina and Sam Bunny live in what some might consider a remote and isolated location on Landcorp’s Rangitaiki Station, but for them the 35-minute drive to Taupo is a breeze.

“Where we were before at Landcorp’s Opouahi Station north of Napier was one hour’s drive from town, much of it on a gravel road,” says Christina.

The couple, with children Joe, seven, Sophie, five, and Mac, two, moved to Rangitaiki, where Sam is farm business manager and Christina part-time office administrator, about 18 months ago – and they are loving the location and lifestyle.

“There’s a great community here, and the Rangitaiki School is excellent,” says Christina.

Four primary school students and four college pupils live at Rangitaiki, with their parents among the station’s 21 staff.

Sam says working for Landcorp is a great way for young people to enter farming and progress their career.

He grew up on a small farm in Hawke’s Bay and completed a cadetship at the Central Hawkes Bay’s Smedley Station and Cadet Training Farm, then went on to gain an agricultural degree from Lincoln University.

The first farm Sam worked on as stock manager was bought by Landcorp, which became his introduction

Join our family College 4 March

to what is one of the country’s leading agri-businesses.

Landcorp Farming is a state-owned enterprise, owning or leasing 376,942 hectares of land. With 137 properties and 1.6 million stock units, the company manages, improves and farms land of all types, from sub-tropical Northland to cool temperate climates in Southland.

It’s increasingly partnering with other like-minded organisations, including Maori landowners, to grow its operations.

Sam says the diversity of Landcorp’s operations and its commitment to staff development and training make it an ideal career choice, especially for young people keen to enter farming.

As farm business manager at Rangitaiki, Sam has oversight of 21 staff, including four stock managers, and the day-to-day running, plus future planning for the 9300 ha station. It’s a job he loves.

“I enjoy the scale, which is beyond anything I could ever aspire to through farm ownership. I also enjoying working with people and the diversity of stock we have.”

Christina, who has an environmental degree, met Sam at Lincoln. While she’s currently working parttime in the farm office, around her young family, she’s keen to become more involved in the conservation aspects of Rangitaiki Station, which has 1000ha of retired land including areas under QE2 Trust covenants.

Our secular, uniformed, co-educational school welcomes students to its Preschool and Years 1 to 9 this year.

Further secondary levels will be introduced gradually from 2016.

The curriculum will include the highly regarded Cambridge International Examinations (IGCSE and A-Levels) at senior level.

Come to our OPEN DAY and experience our spacious 14.8 hectare campus, situated on a superb site at 438 Pyes Pa Road, Tauranga.

Open Day Saturday 14 March 10:30am to 2:30pm

For more information please call 07-213 0100 or email acgtauranga@acgedu.com

www.acgedu.com

By Elaine Fisher

Boarding and Scholarships available Application closing date March 20th Register at saintkentigern.com

BUSINESS

Page 48

Are your personal affairs sorted? Country or city computer problems fixed Have you made New Year’s resolutions to quit smoking, loose weight, plan that overseas trip or find a new job?

What about your personal affairs – are you buying a house, moving in with your partner, getting married, having a child, setting up a business, moving into a retirement home?

Have you got an up- todate will in place? If not maybe you should make it one of your new year’s resolutions.

A will is one of the most important documents you can ever sign.

It contains your instructions about what you would like done with your property and personal effects after you die and how you would like your dependents (children, spouse, partner) to be taken care of.

Having a will makes it easier for your family to deal with your estate and assists with preventing disputes.

If you do have a will in place when did you last review it?

Business Advisory

Corporate Finance

Audit

Have your circumstances changed - maybe you have married, someone has died or you have changed your name.

We recommend wills are reviewed at least every five years.

Also, are you considering moving into a retirement home or going overseas?

An Enduring Power of Attorney allows you to appoint someone (e.g. family member, friend, or trusted advisor) to act for you if you become mentally incapable. It could also take effect immediately, while you are still mentally capable, which can be helpful if you are unable to manage your affairs (for whatever reason), or if you go overseas and have affairs that need to be looked after in your absence.

If you’d like to add these important documents to your New Year’s resolutions contact one of the team at Harris Tate who can assist you getting them sorted.

Rebecca Smith is a Registered Legal Executive at Harris Tate Limited.

Taxation

Chartered Accountants & Business Advisors TAURANGA The Hub, 525 Cameron Road TE PUKE Corner Jocelyn & Queen Streets 07-571-6280 www.bdo.co.nz

Trusts

Insolvency

Whether you live out in the countryside or in the middle of the bustling city – we all get computer problems from time to time.

No matter the address, the guys at mobile computer service iFix-iT Onsite will travel to your home or business to solve any computer issue, big or small.

“We can help with anything IT related from troubleshooting to training,” says manager Rob Wynyard.

Services include computer virus removal, system clean-ups, data transfers and upgrades – as well as new computer, email and internet set-up and upgrades.

They also offer computer advice and lessons for people who haven’t quite got their head around tech-

nology just yet.

The team cover from Tauranga to as far as Tauriko – and everywhere in between, including Mount Maunganui, Papamoa, Te Puke and Omokoroa.

Appointment times are flexible, with after-hours and weekend bookings to suit customers’ needs.

If you don’t fancy a personal visit from the team, remote support is

a quick affordable way to solve those computer issues.

The company’s Remote Support Application creates a link between the customer’s computer and technicians at iFix-iT Onsite, so they can work directly on your PC or laptop right in front of you while you watch.

And don’t panic – Rob says it’s 100 per cent safe. “The link isn’t permanent and can be stopped by you at any time and our technicians can only view your computer screen if you start the Remote Support Session.”

To solve any computer problems, contact the team today.

Structure counts for succession plans Freddy Farmer’s recent efforts to sort out his retirement with some ‘succession planning’ has resulted in him setting up a company – a move that’s made him realise that farming is like any business and part of succeeding is finding the right ‘business structure’.

His young farmer pal Jack has been talking about ‘family trusts’ lately, a structure more farmers are choosing apparently because it’s better suited to the tax system.

Not even a new farming business is guaranteed to get the perfect structure capable of standing the test of time, as there is no way to foretell what future legislation (tax, gifting, land tax, capital gains etc) will look like.

The best approach is to explore some of the following issues: Ensure you understood the structure.

Complicated structures can get confusing and may carry higher administration costs which can become troublesome when someone has created this structure on the advice of professionals. Sole traders and partnerships are simple and may be appropriate for a startup business with limited income, but they lack the flexibility of other structures when it comes to tax planning, succession planning and estate planning.

A structure is flexible if it assists you with tax, succession or estate planning. The ability to spread income

around a number of taxpayers leads to a lower overall tax liability. Partnerships, companies and trusts (or a combination of these) are useful for this. However, a partnership is not as effective as a company or trust when it comes to succession or estate planning because, on the ceasing of the partnership, a ‘sale’ occurs and taxable income is created generally on the disposal of assets or livestock for more than their tax values.

A company or trust can assist in the transfer of assets to future generations often without triggering taxable income. A company, for example, uses share transfers from one shareholder (eg father) to another shareholder (eg son) with limited impact for the accounting of the company because the share transfers are between two parties, neither of them the company- ie this happens ‘outside the books’. Certain criteria still need to be maintained to stay within certain areas of tax law but these are generally easily managed by a carefully managed sell down of shares.

Companies and trusts are generally considered useful structures that provide more asset protection than the simpler structures. However, the question of “who are you protecting these assets from?” needs to be asked.

If the answer is the bank, then you will generally be unable to contract out of any guarantees to the bank.

If the answer is your spouse/partner, then you could be breaching relationship property legislation. You can be protected against some trade creditors by using a company as long as you haven’t signed any personal guarantees. Trusts can provide asset protection for future generations.

So there are a number of structures or combinations of structures that could be the solution for Jack’s farm.

And, only by doing some thorough soul-searching as above - and with some advice from his chartered accountant - can a suitable solution be created.

Jenny Lee is a Director of BDO Tauranga Chartered Accountants, specialising in rural and horticultural services. Phone Jenny 07-571-6280 for considered accounting and business advice.

COUNTRY LIVING

Page 49

Adrenalin junkies take to the track $2000 and the best troublemaker out there â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the one who is the most entertaining â&#x20AC;&#x201C; wins $1000.â&#x20AC;?

Bernie says theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re making it easy for entrants this year, with a limited number of cars available for drivers to hire for the event. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It makes it a heck of a lot easier for people who canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ďŹ nd a car to drive in the clash â&#x20AC;&#x201C; or for those who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have

the skills to set their cars up for the derby.â&#x20AC;?

Entry forms are available online at www.bayparkspeedway.co.nz, at Flamecrusher in Gate Pa, or at the merchandise hub at ASB Baypark.

The entry fee for drivers competing with their own car is $100, or $400 for drivers who wish to hire a car for the event.

By Zoe Hunter

Are You a Small Business Owner?...

021(< 72 /(1' 72 Entries are now open for the SunLive Baypark Speedway Demolition Derby.

Thrill seekers and adrenalin junkies are encouraged to sign up for an action-packed race around the terracotta track this April as part of the SunLive Baypark Speedway Demolition Derby.

Baypark Family Speedway promoter Bernie Gillon says anyone with a driversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; licence can enter the derby at ASB Baypark on April 11.

Bernieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hoping to have at least 60 cars entered, with a $3000 prize pool expected to turn up the heat. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Whoever is the last man or woman standing wins

Subdivision rules to get tougher The Thames Coromandel District Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plan to reduce red tape will not apply to subdivisions.

The plan is currently under review and committee decisions are due out in the later part of this year, once all submitters have been heard.

One of councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s objectives with the new plan - to reduce red tape by allowing many more activities to be 'permitted' rather than 'controlled' - will clearly not apply for subdivisions. Following the huge number of submissions, I would be surprised if this can be achieved anywhere in the plan.

In so far as subdivision is concerned, we see council setting up the new rules so that they have more discretion throughout the process. Many of the rules that were once classiďŹ ed as controlled are being cranked up to â&#x20AC;&#x153;restricted discretionaryâ&#x20AC;? or â&#x20AC;&#x153;full discretionaryâ&#x20AC;?. In general, the more

â&#x20AC;&#x153;discretionaryâ&#x20AC;? the rule, the more â&#x20AC;&#x153;controlâ&#x20AC;? council can exercise in vetting your application.

So this is not a good thing at all for applicants. You can expect higher costs with more detailed specialist reports being requested in most cases. There will be more hoops that you have to jump through to get consent and it puts more of the cost up front. In my opinion this puts a major brake on economic development because people need more certainty at the outset, prior to major investment.

Given the large number of submissions and the widespread nature of them, we are currently still able to lodge applications according to the old rules in most areas.

This will change once decisions are announced, unless those decisions are appealed to the

Environment Court.

My advice to landowners is simple. Firstly, obtain a resource consent that secures your rights under the existing rules without the need to take further action for ďŹ ve years. Then if the new rules are by chance more allowing you could seek a variation to the consent to take into account further opportunities.

In my experience, with a new plan pending, it is a good time to sort out any subdivision plans that you may have - it will never get easier. If you have any plans for subdivision in the future I am happy to discuss the opportunities, so don't hesitate to give me a call.

Brent Trail, managing director of Surveying Services, specialises in resource consent applications for subdivisions across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty.

For further information, call 0800 268 632 or email: btrail@surveyingservices.co.nz

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Page 50

COUNTRY LIVING

The tale of a possum hunter’s wife Wilma Robinson of Te Aroha was inspired by the December Coast & Country review of the DVD ‘Victim or Villain, The New Zealand Brushtail Possum’

by South Coast Productions to write to us about her possum hunting husband Jock.

Possum trapping is my husband’s way of both earning an income and enjoying the bush (considering he’s had a knee replacement, he’s a very active man).

I love that Jock enjoys doing what he’s doing, and it gives him the opportunity to meet many landowners who seem to readily agree to pig hunting on their property – his other passion in life (I’m at the top of that list of course).

But there are disadvantages too.

When he steps in the door after plucking his possums, and tries to give me a bear hug – I’m backing away at pace – he reeks.

His clothes need to be washed separately. Occasionally, if I’ve just started a load of washing, he’ll squeeze his work clothes into the same load...takes me two re-washes to get the smell of possum bodies and blood out of my clothes after that.

His ute stinks and is filthy with blood and fur and dirt – not ideal for going out in my

nice clean clothes. I guess that’s why he didn’t complain when I bought my brand new Toyota ute. He reckons there’s no point in washing his ute; it’ll just get dirty again the next day.

If we’ve gone up the coast for the weekend, I sometimes get dragged out of bed early on the Sunday just so we can make it back for the possum buyer – what happened to sleeping in on a Sunday?

Or worse – if the possum buyer’s not coming, it can be a slow trip home, as every roadkill possum on the road is checked and often picked up and taken home for plucking. Not bad results either for the ‘possum-free Coromandel’.

The stories my husband comes back with, the ‘near misses’ he’s had on his quad in the hills are bloody terrifying – he’s just a little bit accident prone, one of those guys where ‘if it’s gonna happen, it’s gonna happen to him’.

After all said and done, I’m proud of my husband for having the ability and willpower to get out there and do something productive, something he enjoys doing – he’s selfemployed, works his own hours, what more could you ask for? Besides...I’d hate to think he was sitting home doing nothing while I’m still working full-time. He’s not retiring till I’m ready to retire too.

Possum hunter’s wife Wilma Robinson and husband Jock.

Parental leave payments to increase Paid parental leave is a Governmentfunded entitlement paid to eligible working mothers and adoptive parents when they take leave from their job to care for their new-born or adopted child (under the age of six).

The Government announced changes to parental leave provisions as part of the 2014 budget. The current 14 weeks’ paid parental leave will be increased in two stages. From April 1, 2015 paid parental

leave will increase to 16 weeks. From April 1, 2016 paid parental leave will increase again from 16 weeks to 18 weeks.

From April 1, 2016 paid parental leave payments will apply to more people. In particular the changes will impact on those people who have recently changed jobs, seasonal and casual employees, and those employed with more than

Employment Law Services

one employer. Further, a numbers of carers will be able to access paid parental leave after April 1, 2016.

For babies born on or after April 1, 2015, the Government will increase the parental tax credit from $150 a week to $220 a week and extend the pay period from eight weeks to 10 weeks.

For more information on changes to paid parental leave check out “Government to boost parental leave provisions” http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/ government-boost-parental-leave This article is intended as a point of reference and should not be relied on as a substitute for professional advice. Specialist advice should always be sought in relation to any particular circumstances and no liability will be accepted for any losses incurred by those relying solely on this article.

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COUNTRY LIVING

Page 51

Show great place for adventure planning â&#x20AC;&#x153;The show will have the latest motorhome, caravan and camping designs and accessories all under the one roof, plus there are seminars, no reserve auctions, fantastic competitions â&#x20AC;&#x201C;including the chance to win back $10,000 for any purchases made over $30,000 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and loads of information covering all elements of the outdoors lifestyle.â&#x20AC;?

The Covi SuperShow attracts thousands of visitors keen to ďŹ nd out about the latest products and innovations, meet with the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experts and enjoy a taste of what the exciting lifestyle offers.

More than 140 exhibitors, including leading brands KEA, Motek, United, Trail-Lite and Jayco, will be showcasing their latest models All of New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s major motorhome and caravan and product innovations in March. brands will be on display at the Covi Motorhome Visitors will again have the chance to win the Ultimate Road Caravan & Outdoor SuperShow.

Trip, a 59-day MOTEK motorhoming adventure across America, Australia %D\ %OLQGV PDQXIDFWXUHUV RI 8QLĂąH[ VXQ FRQWURO V\VWHPV and New Zealand (ďŹ&#x201A;ights and petrol vouchers included), worth $40,000.

The countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading motorhome caravan and outdoor expo, the 2015 Covi Motorhome Caravan & Outdoor SuperShow, will be the largest of its kind ever held in New Zealand. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Support from the motorhome and caravan industry and exhibitors has been way ahead of what we expected,â&#x20AC;? says Spot On Exhibitions general manager David Culpan.

The show â&#x20AC;&#x201C; being held at the ASB Showgrounds in Auckland from March 13-15 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is also going to have the largest outdoor display area in the eventâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ďŹ ve-year history.

Organisers are especially happy that the Covi SuperShow is the only show in New Zealand which will see all of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s major motorhome and caravan brands on display.

Celebrating New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great outdoors with a family holiday has a long tradition, which is why the Covi SuperShow is the perfect starting point for planning family adventures.

Pipfruit industry joins GIA The pipfruit industry has become the third to join the Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biosecurity partnership.

Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy says Pipfruit New Zealand has signed the deed of the Government Industry Agreement for Biosecurity Readiness and Response. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This means that apple and pear growers and the Ministry for Primary Industries can work closely together and make joint decisions on readiness and response to manage mutual high priority biosecurity pests.â&#x20AC;?

The signing followed that earlier in the year by Kiwifruit Vine Health and New Zealand Pork. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The apple and pear sector knows the importance of biosecurity and have shown leadership in wanting to develop a partnership with the government.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;They have recognised the beneďŹ ts of sitting around the table with MPI and how this can deliver better outcomes.

Nathan says Pipfruit The apple industry New Zealand has already has joined kiwifruit in worked with MPI on readisigning the GIA. ness and response to pests, and has helped with developing an operational agreement for any possible fruit ďŹ&#x201A;y incursion. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m delighted that the skills, knowledge and expertise they bring can be better harnessed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Biosecurity is my number one priority as Minister and this is another important step in strengthening our borders. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m looking forward to seeing more industries sign up in the future,â&#x20AC;? says Nathan.

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FORESTRY

Page 52

Region’s biology from forest to sea ‘blitzed’ A “slice” of Katikati from the forest to the sea will come under intense scrutiny in March when scientists and amateurs attempt to identify, within 24 hours, every living organism in its environment.

Some of the more complex work like Memorial Hall as its headquarters and it will With a working title of K2B2 (Katikati recording bacteria will be carried out before be there that information on what’s discov– two ‘Ks’ and bio-blitz – two ‘Bs’) the ambithe 24-hour blitz as to identify them, they tious project begins at 11am on Friday, March ered is recorded.

“We have a goal of recording 240 species an have to be cultured in a laboratory situation.

6 and ends at 11am Saturday, March 7.

Nothing will be overlooked. Even home hour and I think we’ll achieve it,” says Peter.

“We will be looking at sample areas from gardens will be investigated to record every A team of scientists from Auckland the top of the Kaimai Range to the harbour kind of plant, insect and bird.

University, Ag Research, Department of and recording everything from bacteria and “If we don’t know what anything is, we’ll Conservation, Landcare, Western Bay of fungi, to insects and birds, to native and endeavour to have experts who can help exotic plants, both on land and in the water,” Plenty District and Bay of Plenty Regional identify it.” says retired scientist Peter Maddison, Even farm and domestic animals who is among co-ordinators of the and what lives on and in them will blitz. be recorded, with local vets asked Peter was involved in a similar bioto assist in the project. blitz at Miranda last year, when 1200 Peter would also like information different species were identified but on what lives inside the human he’s expecting many more to be found population of the area too and in the Katikati blitz because it’s a is hoping for assistance from the much more diverse eco-system. medical profession to source that The blitz has been initiated by the information.

Uretara Estuary Managers, a Katikati During the 24 hours, speakers group formed to manage and improve the Uretara Stream estuary and work Studies of aquatic life will be among those undertaken in will be holding seminars in the memorial hall, talking about their with land owners, government, district the bio-blitz at Katikati in March. areas of expertise. and region council and other agencouncils and Forest and Bird will join school The organisers are encouraging as many cies to restore and plant stream banks in the students, Katikati locals and anyone else keen people as possible to be involved in K2B2. upper catchment. to be involved.

To register to take part email Uretara Estuary Spreading the word about the need to protect and restore streams and estuaries is “We may find something quite rare, like Manager Sue Morris at suemorris60@gmail. also an aim, which is one of the reasons for the Peripatoides novaezealandiae which is com or Janet Price: janetplanet54@gmail. the bio-blitz. described as the missing link between insects com with K2B2 in the subject line.

The March bio-blitz will have the Katikati and worms.”

By Elaine Fisher

Warning that mowing can spark fires Farmers and the rural community are being warned of the risks of mowing roadside vegetation in the extreme dry conditions.

“The fire environment has reached the point where it has become extremely dangerous and high risk to use a mechanical mower to top paddocks and mow road sides,” says Anders Crofoot, Federated Farmers Rural Fire Spokesperson.

“In the first few days of January, Wairarapa Rural Fire District attended six vegetation fires caused by the mowing of the road side or the topping of paddocks.

“If you have plans to continue to mow or top, you should consult your rural fire authority first and have precautions in place to immediately respond to and extinguish any fire.

“You are liable to pay for any damage and the cost of putting out fires that you have started, so think twice before doing any activity that could start a fire; you will be surprised at what can start a fire in these conditions” In the event of any fire dial 111 immediately, stating the location of the fire and what is on fire.

“Another risk is using a firearm; the bullet hitting a hard surface that can cause sparks is also a risk. There has been mention of tracer bullets being sold, which have a burning part of the pellet to provide the trace, which people also need to be made aware of.

“Everyone needs to remain vigilant until we start getting some rain, check whether your area is under the Prohibited or Restricted Fire Season and what that means to you.”

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COAST & COUNTRY

Page 53

trades & services To list your rural event please email: julie@thesun.co.nz with Rural Event in the subject heading.

Smart Water Use Field Day Whakatane Two workshops to choose from: Discovering tips on efficient water use in shed; and on-farm with Nicola McHaffie and Caleb Higham from Dairy NZ. Using water better with irrigation, with Paul Reese from Irrigation NZ. Held at Robin Barkla’s property, 73 Thompson Rd, Whakatane, SN 21828 from 10.30am-1pm. Lunch supplied by Farmlands.

Thursday 12 February

Smart Water Use Field Day Rotorua Tips on efficient water use in shed; and on-farm with Nicola McHaffie and Caleb Higham from Dairy NZ. Technology to ‘make every drop count’, find out how this new conversion will milk 600 cows without needing a water take consent under Waikato Regional Council’s Variation 6 by Joel Hensman, Agfirst. Held at Waipupumahana A1B2 Trust Farm, 969 SH 30, Horohoro SN 78605 from 10.30am-1pm. Lunch supplied by Farmlands.

Saturday 14 February

22nd Paeroa Highland Games & Tattoo 9am to 9pm, at the Paeroa Domain. 12 hours of entertainment! For further information contact: Margarete Ford - Secretary, Phone 07 862 7164 Email:secretary@ paeroahighlandgames.co.nz Avenue road) Drive In Movie 9pm, gates open 6pm, BYO picnic dinner or food availavle on site. $25 per car. Hope to see you there. www.yankeehaulers.co.nz

Sunday 15 February

Morrinsville Motorama at Morrinsville Polo Grounds (enter off Avenue

road) Fun family day out for everyone. Swap Meet.

Gates open 9am – 2pm, Miss Retro Motorama, Rodes & Simulator, Model & remote cars, Race cars, Big Rigs, Spot Priozes, Trades and displays.

Foot Traffic $5, Show cars $5. www.yankeehaulers.co.nz

Monday 16 February

Dairy Women’s Network: Nutrient Report Workshop

Sunday 22 February

registration 9.30am.

Register now at www.dwn. co.nz or 07 974 4850.

Friday 27 February

Bay of Plenty Ballance Farm Environment Awards dinner

Rotorua Tractor & Machinery Club Vintage tractor show and live day at Oturoa Rd, off SH5 Mamaku from 10am-3pm.

Vintage tractor and horse ploughing.

Hay making demonstration (weather permitting) ancient and modern, vintage cars, stationary engines, refreshments.

Ph John 07 308 0571 or email: titancouch@msn.com

Monday 23 February

Dairy Women’s Network: Nutrient Report Workshop Wondering what your nitrogen report means? Held at Otorohanga Club, 107 Maniapoto St, Otorohanga from 10am-2.30pm.

Lunch provided, coffee and

ASB Area, Mount Maunganui Friday February 27.

Tickets $75 each can be purchased from the website www.nzfeatrust.org.nz/ or by contacting the co-ordinator Kirsten Winter bop@bfea.org.nz

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Sunday 12 April

Waikato Triumph Car Club Annual classic car show and swapmeet at Te Awamutu Race Course, Racecourse Rd, Te Awamutu from 7.30pm.

Trial bike displays, classic cars, bouncy castle, vintage cars, hot rods and more. Fundraiser for Westpac Waikato Air Ambulance. Show cars and drivers: gold coin donation, passengers $5 each, swapmeet sellers $10 per site.

Public $5 each, under 12s enter for free. personal

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join a club WIN $500 CASH Monthly.

Join Te Puna Hunting & Fishing club for only $10 per adult and enter our monthly competition Prime Explosives 500, you could win $500 Cash every month. Check out www.tepunahuntfishclub.co.nz or check out our facebook page to keep upto date www.facebook.

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Wondering what your nitrogen report means? Held at Te Kauwhata Rugby Club, Mahi Rd, Te Kauwhata from 10am-2.30pm. Lunch provided, coffee and registration 9.30am. Register now at www. dwn.co.nz or 07 974 4850.

Friday 20 February

Dairy Women’s Network: Nutrient Report Workshop Wondering what your nitrogen report means? Held at Whakatane Hotel, 79 The

phone 07 578 0030

email ads@thesun.co.nz

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Morrinsville Motorama DriveIn Movie (enter off

Strand, Whakatane from 10am-2.30pm.

Lunch provided, coffee and registration 9.30am. Register now at www.dwn.co.nz or 07 974 4850.

3 (33( 5

Wednesday 4 February

COAST & COUNTRY

Page 54

Edna’s prayers are answered - but not in full There was a post office worker whose job was to process mail with illegible addresses.

One day a letter came, addressed in shaky writing, to God. The postman decided to open it.

The letter read: “Dear God, I’m an 83-year-old widow, living on a very small pension. Yesterday someone stole my purse. It had $100 in it, all the money I had until my next pension payment.

I had invited two of my friends over for Christmas dinner. Without that money I can’t buy any food. I have no family to turn to. You are my only hope. Can you help me please?

Sincerely, Edna.”

The postal worker was touched. He showed the letter to all the other workers. Each one dug into his or her wallet and came up with a few

dollars. He collected a total of $96 which he put in an envelope and sent to Edna.

For the rest of the day, all the workers felt a warm glow thinking of Edna and the dinner she would now be able to share with her friends.

A few days later another letter arrived from Edna addressed to God. All the workers gathered around while the letter was opened.

It read: “Dear God, How can I ever thank you enough for what you did for me?

Because of Dear God your gift of love, I was able to fix a beautiful dinner for my friends. We had a very nice day and I told them of your wonderful gift.

By the way, there was $4 missing. I think it might have been those bastards at the post office”.

Prevention best policy to prevent suffering caused by flystrike While walking in the hills of Banks Peninsula this New Year on a hot nor’west day I stopped for lunch and within a couple of minutes the blow flies had located me.

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We can protect ourselves from fly, but not so for our sheep and flystrike is a major welfare concern and economic cost for our country.

The flies ‘strike’ by laying their eggs on sheep in areas which have a natural attractant such as, shearing cuts, urine and faeces.

The maggots hatch and spread along the sheep, the visual signs of this are twitching, irritation, restlessness and discoloured wool as the maggots invade the skin and underlying tissue.

Sheep that have been struck by fly should be treated as soon as possible with a recognised fly strike treatment product (as well as removing wool from around the area) to reduce pain and suffering and minimise production losses.

How true is the old saying ‘Prevention is better than cure” when applied to flystrike?

Prevention of flystrike includes the prevention and removal of dags by having a good worm programme and crutching or shearing sheep in the summer, dealing with footrot and Dermatophilosis (Lumpy Wool).

Also removing fly breeding sites such as any dead animals which need to be buried or put into offal pits that are covered.

While these management factors will reduce the incidence of the flystrike, chemical treatments are key to flystrike prevention.

The main chemicals used for flystrike prevention are insect growth regulators as they provide persistence for up to three to four months or more.

IGRs stop the normal development life cycle of the fly and

they fall into two categories: 1. Triazine/pyrimidine derivatives; Cyromazine and Dicyclanil; fly control only 2. Benzoyl Phenyl Urea (BPU) compounds; Diflubenzuron and Triflumuron; fly and lice control Recent surveys have shown little if any resistance to cyromazine and dicyclanil, which are still working as expected.

It is the BPU chemicals that are affected by resistance and anecdotally the worst breakdowns involve triflumuron, while diflubenzuron is generally working satisfactorily in most cases at the moment.

The main treatment methods are jetting, pour-on/spray-on and saturation dipping (plunge or shower).

Key points on application: • Jetting; in addition to getting the dilution rate correct, it is critical to apply several litres/ sheep with good coverage to skin level over the areas most prone to strike.

Volumes as low as 1 litre/ sheep could give sub-optimal protection.

• Pour/Spray-on; fleece length and application technique are critical to success, as the potential weakness of these types of products is their low volume relative to the size of the area requiring cover.

Prevention of strike is largely limited to the area covered with the product, and effectiveness is improved with higher volume products, especially on larger sheep.

If in doubt get expert advice on the appropriate dip chemicals to use, along with the correct application method and timing.

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COAST & COUNTRY

Page 55

www.harcourts.co.nz ADVANTAGE REALTY LTD MREINZ

Advantage Realty Ltd MREINZ Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Tauranga Central Office – 07 578 0879 Cherrywood Office – 07 576 8770 Bethlehem Office – 07 579 2206 Mount Central Office – 07 575 6384 Papamoa Office – 07 542 9012 Te Puke Office – 07 573 4754

Page 56

COAST & COUNTRY Grandsons Quintin and Zach trying out Poppa’s bike.

Cody Conwell, aged 2, enjoying a ride on his pony on the farm. Sent in by Clare Austin.

Sent in by Sue Watson

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS PRIZE UP FOR GRABS! Pictures and details can be emailed (high resolution jpgs) to sarah@thesun.co.nz “Country Camera” or posted to Coast & Country, PO Box 240, Tauranga.

Please include a name, address and phone number with every entry.

Tamzin, aged 9, protecting her barrel.

Jack Wilson, aged 5, cooling Meg down after rounding up the cows for milking on a hot afternoon.