Coast & Country News July 2016

Federated Farmers PAGE 8

WHAKATANE

Mystery Item PAGE 7

07 308 7299

Avocados PAGE 19-25

Kiwifruit PAGE 26-27

Kaimai Ridgeway PAGE 28

Dairy PAGE 33-39

Fieldays Followup PAGE 51-61

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Page 2

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Imagine it - a world without jobs Once again the Ministry for Primary Industries detector dogs were among the star attractions at Fieldays, charming crowds with their attractive appearances and good behaviour.

But of course their greatest attribute is their phenomenal sense of smell and ability to communicate to handlers when they detect smells of items in luggage or parcels which are a threat to New Zealand’s biosecurity.

These dogs are proof technology is no match for nature when it comes to a heightened sense of smell. But – of course – scientists are working on electronic ‘noses’ which might one day replace detector dogs.

No doubt there will be advantages – no need to feed, groom or rest an electronic nose – but there goes the cute-dog-and-the-human factor.

Robots have for decades been performing jobs previously done by humans including in manufacturing, the dairy and kiwifruit industries.

In the USA, Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s CEO Andy Puzder is keen to open restaurants staffed only by machines – saying the government driving up the minimum wage is one factor.

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The obvious flaw in Andy’s thinking is if all businesses took the same approach and replaced staff with robots, there would be no one with the money to buy their food or products.

Technology is making rapid and potentially quite scary changes to the way we live and work; and it’s unstoppable. To adapt and cope with this strange new world needs urgent attention if we are to avoid increasing unemployment, poverty, crime and rising physical and mental health problems.

Our society is largely based on the idea that to have a job is to be a good person and those that don’t are often demeaned.

However, some very optimistic social commentators are saying as jobs become more automated, people may be paid a universal wage and choose to work doing things they enjoy, instead of working at jobs they hate.

In fact a form of that is already a reality, among those supported by crowd funding to do work they and their benefactors believe has value. But – of course – the benefactors are probably in paid employment so are able to extend that generosity.

Elaine Fisher Nose for work – new detector dog recruit Nelson with Liz Moore at the Ministry for Primary Industries stand at Fieldays.

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Coast & Country News July 2016

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Page 3

‘Grow your own meat’ a real possibility fied grass which produces 40 per cent more energy, using less water and nitrogen.” Under current regulations, it can’t be released to farmers in New Zealand – and Graham warns the technology is likely to be picked up by overseas competitors and used to their advantage.

Not all technologies are a threat and many new advances, including

Growing a piece of meat in the kitchen for dinner and drinking synthetic milk sounds too bizarre to be true.

But the production of synthetic foods is a reality and has the potential to be highly disruptive for farming in the future.

In 2013, Dutch scientists successfully grew synthetic meat in a laboratory at a cost of more than $300,000 but have now got that down to about $12 per kilogram, says Federated Farmers chief executive Graham The cost of producing Smith. sythetic is meat Synthetic milk has reducing. also been successfully produced and today’s farmers cannot discount the potential impacts on their businesses of further developments in technology, says Graham.

His warning is echoed by Trudi Ballantye, a Te Puke accountant with Business Results Group, who says synthetic versions of natural products have impacted on farming before.

“Sheep farmers of the past would not have imagined a time when carpets could be made from anything but wool. But the production of synthetic carpets has had a major impact on sheep farming,” says Trudi.

Graham and Trudi were among the speakers at the Bay of Plenty Federated Farmers 70th annual provincial conference and annual general meeting at Edgecumbe in May, where they gave separate addresses on the conference theme ‘Licence to farm’.

Insect fare

Elaine Fisher

Federated Farmers chief executive Graham Smith (left) and Trudi Ballantye, a Te Puke accountant (below) with Business Results Group.

These and other innovations, plus more efficient conventional farming, will be needed if the world is to feed an estimated 77 million more people every year.

Trudi says New Zealand currently grows enough food to feed 40 million people “which is about half a per cent of the world’s population” and 95 per cent of what we produce is exported.

Genetic technology

Both speakers suggest New Zealand’s focus should be away from commodity markets to producing food for those who can afford to pay for and want high quality products which are safe and produced sustainably.

Graham says competition at the commodity end of the markets will only increase with more food production coming from Asia, South America and Africa.

“We need to tailor our products and free up government research funding. Currently, instead of doing research, scientists are spending up to 40 per cent of their time applying for contestable funding which they may not get.”

Graham says New Zealand needs to have the discussion about the role of genetic technology in farming.

“Agresearch has developed a new genetically modi-

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Trudi says while pork, poultry, beef, mutton and fish, plus milk from cows, have been the traditional forms of farmed protein for decades, insects, including crickets, are also being farmed for human consumption.

Graham says smart solutions to growing more food in less space includes ‘vertical farming’ in which, under LED lights, vegetables are grown in banks of troughs one above the other. Some greenhouses are able to produce 10,000 lettuces every day in this manner.

How people are buying their food today is changing too, says Trudi, who subscribes to My Food Bag with bags containing everything she needs for a particular meal delivered to her door.

“In Chinese subways, consumers can shop from a virtual supermarket, order what they want via their smartphone, and the food will be delivered to a ‘refrigerated mailbox’ outside their apartment, ready for when they arrive home.”

autonomous farm vehicles such as tractors, and technologies, which allow the precision spreading of fertiliser or sowing of seeds, can positively benefit farming.

Both speakers say farmers need to innovate, and that many already are.

“We need to recognise that doing the same things, will deliver the same results,” says Trudi.

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Page 4 Chris Clements is the winner of the 2016 BOP Young Grower of the Year.

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Chris is top young grower Chris Clements, who has seen the kiwifruit industry through both its worst and its best times, has won the title of 2016 Bay of Plenty Young Grower of the Year.

The twenty-nine-year-old joined the industry in 2008 and just two years later the vine disease Psa-V was found in lucrative Hort16A gold vines. It went on to rapidly spread throughout the Bay of Plenty and eventually all North Island growing regions. “We were going into orchards and cutting out infected vines with

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chainsaws, which wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t very pleasant,â&#x20AC;? says Chris, who adds the experience didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t put him off a career in the kiwifruit industry.

In 2012 Chris joined Kiwifruit Vine Health, the organisation set up to help the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recovery and in his role contributed to the development of advisory and best practice Psa-V management systems.

After two-and-a-half years with KVH he returned to postharvest, this time with Apata Group last year.

This is the fourth year Chris has entered the young grower contest and he dominated the challenges, receiving top marks for ďŹ ve of the 11 tests, including sugar testing and biosecurity.

Chris was awarded a cash prize of $1500 and an allexpenses paid trip to compete for the national 2016 Young Grower of the Year title in July.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was a tough battle against some of the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most capable young growers,â&#x20AC;? says Chris. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m looking forward to competing at the national ďŹ nal and will be stepping up my preparation during the next few weeks. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d encourage all this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s BOP entrants to give it a go again and not give up. Every year you learn something new and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good to challenge yourself.â&#x20AC;?

Chris, who has a Bachelor of Science majoring in horticultural science from Massey University, has

Testing skills - Ella Maxwell (above) and Rishi Preet Singh (left).

Photo Richard Blayney.

challenged himself in his career by taking on the role at KVH and is now in charge of new technology at Apataâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mends Lane postharvest facility. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Operating the automatic box ďŹ lling machine has been a steep learning curve but one I enjoy.â&#x20AC;?

Second place in the young grower contest went to Aongatete Coolstores Ltdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grower services representative Aaron Hokopaura, 25, and Apata Group Ltdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s technical advisor Erin Atkinson, 29, based in Te Puke, placed third.

Highly skilled Horticulture NZ chief executive Mike Chapman says the competition develops skills and fosters leadership. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The competitors are a great example of young people who are passionate about the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ...continued future and their role in it.

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Coast & Country News July 2016

Page 5

Contest cultivates future horticultural leaders

Entrants from left Ella Maxwell, Aaron Hokopaura, Nikesh Gurang, Chris Clements, Erin Atkinson, Rishi Preet Singh continued...

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The future growth of our industry is dependent on our ability to attract young growers like Chris, who are highly skilled and enthusiastic. We wish him all the best as he prepares to compete in the national competition next month.â&#x20AC;?

This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bay of Plenty competition received a huge amount of support from the local horticulture industry through sponsorship and other contributions. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was fantastic to see so many local industries and organisations recognise the beneďŹ ts of the competition for the industry by supporting our future leaders,â&#x20AC;? says New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers chairman Doug Brown.

Apata Grow general manager Sonia Whiteman says she is delighted two of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team have done so well in the contest.

Sophisticated equipment â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chris is a deserving winner. He is a young man with a lot of maturity. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very structured and thoughtful and committed to what he does.

Nikesh Gurang during the contest. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In his role at our Mends Lane facility Chris is responsible for an automatic box ďŹ lling machine, which is a highly sophisticated piece of equipment and he has really taken ownership of this.â&#x20AC;?

Sonia is impressed at how Chris has involved, trained and motivated staff operating the machinery. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A lot of people think our industry is about manual labour but technology is playing an increasing role â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and Chris is empowering people to be part of that.â&#x20AC;?

Erin Atkinson, who was third in the event, is also from Apata â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and Sonia says

she has stepped up to take on increased responsibilities this season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Erin won the Growing Young Leaders module in the competition and showed she has a good understanding of her own strengths and is able to recognise strengths in her colleagues. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She has a strong focus on people and getting the most for the team,â&#x20AC;? says Sonia.

In the contest entrants took part in a series of event, many of them carried out in heavy rain, including the operation of machinery and identiďŹ cation of horticultural plants.

Point were gained for each task and the ďŹ nal judging was based on a speech each entrant presented before an audience of 420 people at the gala dinner at Mills Reef on June 22.

Compere for the evening was TV personality and comedian Te Radar, who entertained with stories about behindthe-scene escapades during the ďŹ lming of his television shows.

New Zealand to select the ďŹ nest young fruit or vegetable grower in the country.

The winners from ďŹ ve regional events go forward to contest the ďŹ nal. The competition is part of Horticulture New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strategy to support the growth and development of New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future horticultural leaders.

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Cultivating careers Alongside the competition, NZKGI hosted the Cultivate Your Career expo event, which was attended by more than 200 Bay of Plenty and Waikato students in Years 11-13.

Interactive presentations exposed students to the diverse career opportunities and intriguing topics horticulture can provide â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from biosecurity to the latest science and technology, and the importance of social responsibility.

The Young Grower of the Year is an annual competition run by Horticulture

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COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Robotics on HortNZ conference agenda The application of automation and robotics in the primary sector will be a hot topic at the New Zealand Horticulture Conference in August.

Among speakers will be Professor Salah Sukkarieh, the Professor of Robotics and Intelligent Systems at the University of Sydney, and the Director of Research and Innovation at the Australian Centre for Field Robotics, who is undertaking research focusing on field robotic systems.

His talk on innovations in robotics and intelligent systems will be complemented by Steve Saunders of Robotics Plus in Tauranga, with

a session focusing on unlocking the potential of robotics in horticulture.

They join a host of other top international speakers, such as Bill Marler, a managing partner of Marler Clark, which is a food safety law firm in the United States, and Nadia Lim, a chef, food writer and entrepreneur known worldwide as the ‘Nude Cook’.

This year’s theme ‘Innovate from seed to plate’ aims to interest and benefit the widest range of growers The Horticulture Conference is on August 3-5 at the Rutherford Hotel, Nelson. Further information is at: www.thehorticultureconference.nz

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Plea to retain parenting programme family and other local families, who rely on the service for support. It’s also having an impact on the local PAFT educators who will likely lose their jobs as a result of this decision, causing further unemployment in provincial areas.

PAFT has guided me, given me confidence to help my daughter develop good behaviours, achieve Such a drastic change has been milestones, given me ideas somewhat of an emotional roller and techniques; and I coaster during the years as I know others in my comadjusted to my rural life in a new munity share this belief country with a new husband and and this passion for the a new life. service.

New Mum PAFT should be availSian van Heuven wants others to benefit Even more change came about able to all communities from the Parents as First Teachers when my child Layla was born because all new parents programme as she and daughter Layla in 2014. I now had the added are likely to feel vulnerable have – so is urging people to support the dimension of being a new mum at some stage. Becoming petition to retain PAFT. in this farming-based commua parent is a huge lifesupport of my family back home, nity. Making the transition from changing experience and it PAFT has provided invaluable being career-led to a stay-at-home is crucial to provide parents with support to our family as we try mother was fortunately made the support they need during this to balance the responsibilities of easier by an organisation known time. I urge everyone to stand running a farm and being the best as PAFT – or Parents as First with our community during this parents we can be.

Teachers – which is a research time and to sign our petition calland evidence-based parenting ing for the funding to remain for Huge negative programme that has been running every parent and every child. We I was saddened at the recent since 1991. need everyone’s support! announcement that the GovernPAFT supported myself and Please join the petition to Minisment is moving the funding other mums who are a little try of Social Development, called for PAFT to a “more targeted socially isolated with home visits, Keep PAFT at: www.change.org/p/ programme”. This is a huge blow guidance, information and educaministry-of-social-developmentfor our rural community. I feel tion to help our children develop keep-the-paft-parents-as-firstthis removal of support will have during their crucial early years. teachers-programme-in-nz a huge negative impact on my Living rurally, and without the Sian van Heuven

Back in 2008 I made the life-changing decision to move from my very much urbanised hometown of Southampton in England to the rolling hills of the Matamata countryside in New Zealand to be a farmer’s wife to my New Zealand-born husband.

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Coast & Country News July 2016

Page 7

Western Bay Museum to open in August ‘Fun and Games’ of pioneers to the swinging A feature of the ‘Fun and Games’ exhibition will be the 1880 Killen 1960s is the focus of the interactive Gown, which hasn’t been on display exhibition to mark the opening in August of before.

“We have a textile conservator from Te the new Western Bay Museum in Katikati.

“The exhibition will feature items from our collection which tell the stories of the fun and games both adults and children enjoyed from our district’s early pioneering days up until the 1960s,” says museum manager and curator Paula Gaelic.

“There will be a strong emphasis on music from those times too and we are trying to find a record of Claude Grayling’s song ‘Sailing along on a moonbeam’ recorded by Pixie Williams on the TANZA label in 1951, so we can play it as part of the exhibition,” says Paula, who is keen to hear from anyone who has that record.

Papa coming to mount the gown and hold an afternoon workshop in July for anyone who wants to learn about handling textiles,” says Paula. The following day the Killen Gown will be mounted for display by the conservator and this will be open to the public.

Numbers are limited and to register for the workshop, email Paula at info@westernbaymuseum.nz The gown, and other items from the collection, will be displayed inside glass cases made and installed by museum showcase specialists Designcraft Australia and mounted on plinths made by Gateway Kitchens of Katikati.

The exhibition coincides with the school holidays and kite-making workshops will be part of the activities.

“Later in the year we’ll hold a public picnic with lots of fun and games, including egg and spoon and threelegged races where children will be able to fly the kites they have made,” says Paula.

She would like to hear from anyone who has a copy of the TANZA record of ‘Sailing along on a moonbeam’ which could be added to the museum’s collection. Anyone with a copy is invited to contact the Western Bay Museum on 07 549 0651.

Elaine Fisher

Old fire station

Housed in Katikati’s former fire station, the Western Bay Museum is a member of Museums Aotearoa, New Zealand’s professional association for public museums and art galleries.

Paula has the support and guidance of the Auckland War Memorial Museum and access to workshops and best practice advice from National Services Te Paerangi – Te Papa. The museum also has the support and assistance of many businesses, organisations and institutions from the region inclding Tauranga and nationally. Western Bay of Plenty District Council is a stakeholder in the museum.

Now the new museum, right in the heart of Katikati, is poised to launch its first official exhibition, following on from the ‘Unexpected Hero’s’ exhibition it hosted from November 2015 to March 2016, as a centennial commemoration of World War 1, featuring the war experiences of five Western Bay individuals.

“The ‘Unexpected Heroes’ exhibition is about to open in Maketu.

The booth is designed to be moved around the district so it may pop up anywhere. “Once we have exhausted all possible homes in the Bay of Plenty we are discussing plans for the booth to be transported to the Wairoa Community. All enquiries are welcome,” says Paula.

Western Bay Museum volunteer and retired medical laboratory scientist Nigel Yates is painstakingly restoring this pair of Hagan Special wooden snow skis, which will be part of the ‘Fun and Games’ exhibition at the museum in August.

If you can provide information about the bone-handled tools in the lady’s set featured in the photograph (left) you could be in to win admission for two to the Western Bay Museum. Send your entry to elaine@ thesun.co.nz with ‘Mystery item’ in the subject line, or post to Mystery Item, Coast & Country News, PO Box 240, Tauranga 3110 to arrive no later than July 26.

Exhibitions

“Our entire collection won’t be on display at any one time in Katikati, but instead we will hold four themed exhibitions each year to evoke the desire to revisit time and time again, with the permanent display being the Samuel Middlebrook collection, consisting of mostly of Maori artefacts,” says Paula, who is studying for qualifications in museum practices and management.

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July 2016 Coast & Country News

Licence to farm becoming a reality His family have been dairy farmers in Black Rd, Paengaroa, since 1958. And while thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where he grew up, continuing the tradition didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ďŹ gure in young Darryl Jensenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future plans. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Milking cows didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really appeal but I liked farming so began a cadetship with drystock farmer Ray Hayward at Pikowai when I left school,â&#x20AC;? says Darryl, who several decades on is now not only a dairy farmer back at Black Rd, but the newly elected provincial president for Bay of Plenty Federated Farmers.

After starting work at Pikowai, and other Bay of Plenty properties, Darryl moved to the King Country working on a sheep and beef property near Te Kuiti.

Eventually he and wife Kim bought a 400 hectare sheep and beef farm near Waimihi.

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mated or land use has Darrylâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s his younger changed to kiwifruit brother was running or avocado orchardthe family farm when ing.â&#x20AC;? in 1999 he died in Darryl says water, a microlight crash. its availability and its Following the tragic quality, is among the accident, Kim and major issues facing Darryl decided to farming in New return to the farm Zealand; and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where Darrylâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents why Federated FarmBrian and Pat still live. ers is working closely So Darryl the with government drystock farmer ministries, regional became a dairy farmer. councils, fertiliser Kim continued her and milk companies teaching career at Pongakawa School New elected Bay of Plenty Federated Farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; provincial and industry bodies.

Previous farming and their daughters president Darryl Jensen on the farm at Paengaroa, which generations probably Chloe now 23 and has been in his family since 1958. couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t conceive of Hannah 21 completed a time when their descendants â&#x20AC;&#x153;Richard Steele, our Ruapehu their secondary education and left would need, in effect, a licence to Federated Farmers president, was home for tertiary studies. farm. But Darryl says thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fast a tireless worker for farmers on becoming a reality. this issue. This was my introducExecutive positions Over time the Jensen family had tion to farming politics and what Technology assists Federated Farmers could do for increased the size of the original â&#x20AC;&#x153;New Zealand farmers have farmers.â&#x20AC;? farm to todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 116ha milking up made signiďŹ cant changes to the Naturally Darryl is an advocate to 340 crossbred cows through a way we farm but we could be of farmers joining Federated herringbone dairy. Currently, the greener and cleaner and we need Farmers, which he says for a farm employs two staff to give to work on that. $635 annual subscription plays Darryl time for his Federated â&#x20AC;&#x153;Meeting stricter environmental a vital advocacy role on behalf of Farmers commitments. But heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s conditions comes at a cost and members and provides leadership still the overall manager as well as farmers can only afford those pathways for those keen to step relief worker, and calf-rearer, and changes if they can continue to up to local, regional and even also owns a kiwifruit orchard. make a proďŹ t.â&#x20AC;? national roles.

Darryl has stepped into the new Despite the current low payout presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s role, previously held Mentoring roles and tough ďŹ nancial times dairy

by Rick Powdrell, following other Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also offers important farmers are facing, Darryl has executive positions including Te networking and mentoring conďŹ dence in the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future Puke branch chairman. opportunities, and gives support and the ability of New Zealand He was also involved with to farmers both formally and farmers to innovate and continue Ruapehu Federated Farmers while informally. to produce some of the highest living in the King Country. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Membership in the Bay of quality foods in the world. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We had a problem with TB Plenty is dropping partly due to However, the next few seasons in the area with livestock under changing land use. There was a will be tough â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and Federated movement control restrictions. time when the region had 1000 or Farmers roles of supporting and This issue was a major concern so members. advocating for farmers will be to farmers in the region,â&#x20AC;? says â&#x20AC;&#x153;Now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about 540 and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even more important.

Darryl.

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Coast & Country News July 2016

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Page 9

Manual exchanges once nerve centre of communities brothers’ carrying business. The telephone exchange operated from 6am-midnight. There was a very loud bell over our bed so people could contact us afterhours if they needed to make calls outside this time.

Last month’s mystery item from the Opotiki Museum is indeed, as museum staff thought, the former Waimana manual telephone exchange.

Elaine Bell of Whakatane says the Erickson ‘half board’ was donated to the Rugby match museum by her and husband Don. “We nearly fell out of bed when “I worked casually for 23 years on we first heard it,” says Connie. the exchange, as did my husband Don, “Everyone was a keen rugby who was a counter clerk and also player in the area. I remember one did weekend or relief work on particular Saturday afternoon the exchange when needed.” when an All Blacks’ match was When it was decommissioned, on and the power went out. the smaller exchange was Everyone was beside themselves given to Don. as they couldn’t get coverage.”

“The larger Waimana switch Connie says Cliff managed to board had 100 shutters and is still plug into the Te Uku exchange This Erickson around somewhere,” says Elaine. and asked the operator there ‘half board’ telephone The switchboard was the ‘nerve to turn their radio up. “People exchange once served the centre’ of the community. “It was gathered outside our exchange Waimana district. always a comfort to know that windows so they could listen to it. A no-matter what hour one rang the great time was had by all, thanks to exchange a friendly voice would answer,” Elaine old-fashioned exchanges. recalls in her book ‘If Cows Could Fly’.

“I also took over the 6pm-12pm shift on the

Cranking on

“During the 1964 floods, when the power failed, we resorted to batteries and cranked the handle with the right hand while ringing the code rings with the left hand, for 48 hours” and locals turned up with hot drinks and soup, heated over primus stoves for the exchange operators.

Elaine would sometimes do the midnight-6am shift. “I’d take my gumboots and overalls to the exchange, and cut across the paddocks at 5.55am to milk our 100 Jersey cows, which were all named after the 100 subscribers on the larger switchboard.”

Another Coast & Country reader, Connie Breeds, also has fond memories of the days of manual telephone exchanges.

In 1952 she and her late husband Cliff were transferred to Te Akau many kilometres from Ngaruawahia, where Cliff was to be post master.

“At the time Te Akau had only one store and my

exchange while Cliff looked after the babies. I think my son’s first words were ‘Number please’.

“Our phone number was 164S.” Four years later the family moved to Taupo for 11 years, then to the position of post master at Ruatoria, a very busy office with a continuous exchange.

“We got many requests from the public, including to ring and wake people early in the morning. To pay a visit to WC we had to turn the loud ringer on and go outside in the rain. No inside loo in those days, and you just hoped no one rang while you were in there.”

Cliff and Connie moved to Kawerau, Opotiki, Remuera; and Cliff retired as chief postmaster of Tauranga. And as was compulsory in those days retired at 56 years old after 42 years’ service.

For correctly identifying the exchange from Waimana – and for donating it – Elaine Bell has won admission for two to her Opotiki Museum.

Elaine Fisher

Council to audit food businesses Up to 220 food businesses will now be audited by the Western Bay of Plenty District Council under the Food Act, which came into effect on March 1.

WBOPDC’s compliance and monitoring manager Alison Curtis says council is only the auditor for businesses operating under a template Food Control Plan and that operate solely within the Western Bay district.

“We anticipate council will audit between 200-220 premises. This number would increase if council meets registration requirements of the Ministry of Primary Industries for audit and verification of National Programmes under the act.”

Alison says there are multiple challenges for council as a result of the new regulations.

“That is particularly so when it comes to supporting existing food businesses in the transition, including helping them understanding what sector they fit in, when they are due to transition and the standards businesses are required to meet.

“Council must also ensure sufficient resources are available for businesses. Information and documentation required by businesses will be provided on our website, while MPI has resources on their website that can be used by businesses also.”

Premises that operate under a National Programme, must apply

for registration by November 30, 2018.

These include retailers of hot beverages and shelf-stable manufacturer-packaged foods only; retailers of manufacturer-packaged ice cream and iced confectionery; manufacturers of sugar or related products; companies which extract and pack honey; companies which transport or distribute food products; produce horticultural food and horticultural packing operations, including packhouses.

HortNZ business manager Matt Dolan says while they may appear daunting, growers should not be worried about the new food regulations.“Most growers are already operating to standards which far exceed those required.”

Elaine Fisher

SHEEP & BEEF

Page 10

Are your ewes feeling itchy?

The sight of little tufts of wool appearing along fencelines could also be a hit to your bottom line.

These tufts are a tell-tale sign your ewes are itching and scratching because of lice. Although lice can be present year-round, it is during cooler months infestations rapidly increase on individual animals and throughout a flock.

Infestations left uncontrolled will have ewes spending more and more of their time rubbing and biting

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at themselves in the drive to find relief. The end result is increased matting and damage to wool fibres and a costly reduction in the value of the wool harvested at shearing.

A combination of mechanical and chemical treatments is best employed to ensure lice populations are controlled. Regularly shearing ewes is the primary control option, where up to 80-90 per cent of the lice can be removed from your sheep.

A post-shearing application of dip chemicals can remove most, if not all, of the remaining lice. Although there is resistance to some chemicals, incorrect application will be more often than not be the reason for failure of a treatment to control an infestation.

Incomplete saturation, under-dosing, too long a wool length and mis-mustering are all things that can lead to ‘treatment failures’. Correctly applying an effective chemical at the required

rate will give you the best chance to achieve lice control.

Generally, the sooner after shearing the chemical can be applied, the better. Controlling lice infestations on ewes in winter will also reduce the lice problems on lambs born in spring. At a time when every part of the animal value needs to be maximised, farmers need

to ensure they keep lice infestations in check.

Talk to your animal health representative for help on developing an effective lice control programme this winter.

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Te Radar new host for young farmer award He’s handy with a tractor, can milk a cow or two, and now much-loved television personality Te Radar will be part of the iconic FMG Young Farmer of the Year Grand Final at Timaru from July 7-9.

Once the boy at home on the family’s Ohinewai dairy farm in the Waikato, avidly watching the contest, Te Radar will now be compering the final night of the Grand Final when the 48th winner of New Zealand’s most prestigious agricultural competition will be found.

But before that he’ll join a celebrity group of men who will go ‘head-to-head’ during the grueling practical day held at Caroline Bay in Timaru in a mystery agricultural challenge – not that it fazes him.

Talking himself up against his soon-to-be-announced competitors, he reckons “not everyone can dig a hole!”

Whether that’s true remains to be seen, but the quietly confident entertainer says he really enjoys quad bike tests and swinging gates.

“And I really enjoy tractors. I’m pretty good with them because I always provided the expertise to mow grass for hay at the farm.”

Magnificent seven

All the other ‘stuff ’ of farming he’ll leave up to the seven grand finalists that come from throughout New Zealand. Having admired the passion, drive, sheer intellectual brainpower and skill of the finalists during the years, Te Radar is looking forward to seeing the magnificent seven in action.

“It’s kind of like “Rural Mastermind” isn’t it? Particularly the agri-knowledge quiz and speech evening. I have these childhood memories of watching it on telly, thinking I could answer the questions but never getting them right.”

Te Radar is host at the 2016 FMG Young Farmer of the Year Grand Final at Timaru from July 7-9.

Te Radar relates the contest to being like a decathlon, with a technical day on July 7 kicking off the Grand Final at the stunning Raincliff Station in South Canterbury where the seven contestants will be charged with completing a number of theoretical assessments.

For men more used to being out on the land, having left their university days behind, it’s a mind-numbing five-and-a-half hours, promising mental exhaustion.

As if that weren’t enough the seven finalists will then be required to focus on the all-important agri-knowledge quiz and speech evening before getting ready for what could be the biggest physical challenge of their life.

Big shoes

The practical day is a highlight of any grand final and Te Radar is looking forward to seeing face-to-face the pain the contestants go through in the fight to win the title of FMG Young Farmer of the Year.

“It’s not just about physical requirements – they have to be strong mentally and have excellent time management skills. It’s mind-boggling and incredible to watch.”

Of course, Te Radar will be under-taking his own head-to-head celebrity challenge during the day as well, where he hopes he doesn’t let his good family name of ‘Lumsden’ down – especially because his brother was once a Young Farmer member.

But there can only be one winner, who will be announced the next night – something Te Radar is taking very seriously.

“The contest has had some wonderful hosts over the years. From Bob Parker, Gary McCormick to Mark Leishman…They’re pretty big shoes to fill and I never dreamt I would be part of it.”

Coast & Country News July 2016

I first heard about Origin Green when attending the recent Dairy Farmers Forum at Mystery Creek. Ireland seemed to be embracing togetherness, right across its food and drink sectors; and not just involving primary producers, but at every step of the chain.

And the word that really caught my attention was ‘sustainability’, used in relation to every aspect of the food and drink industries.

With New Zealand Special Agricultural Trade Envoy Mike Petersen having pleaded at the forum for setting up a new independent organisation, similar to the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment, to get all the threads of our food production together, it seemed the Irish might have beaten us to it.

I took the opportunity at Fieldays to spend time with Mary Kinnane, director of Enterprise Ireland Australasia, from whom I learned the concept of making the Irish food and drink industries known for their sustainability has been going on since 2008, with a huge number of stakeholders recruited since that time.

Irish exports

The concept originated from Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board, so has had government backing all the way. In 2010 a strategic initiative named Food Harvest 2020 set out to grow the value of Irish food and drink exports by 50 per cent in the next decade, involving all possible stakeholders.

With a strong focus on carbon foot-printing, by 2011 they had achieved accreditation from The Carbon Trust for a model for dairying.

Consultation with Harvard University was followed by work to develop PAS 2050 carbon footprint models, beginning with beef and since followed with other parts of the wider industry, including lamb, pigs and poultry.

By 2013 Bord Bia had partnered with Teagasc, the Irish Agriculture and Food Development Authority, to develop a Carbon Navigator to monitor carbon footprint at farm level on a national scale.

Each farm is measured against six efficiency measures every 18 months, and levels are audited to ensure real progress to targets is actually being achieved.

A major report in late-2015 stated 90,000 farms had been carbon foot-printed, and 95 per cent of food and drink manufacturers either fully signed up or with plans in progress.

Ireland had already used Origin Green as the theme for its pavilion at the six-month Milan Expo 2015,

SHEEP & BEEF

giving it the opportunity to spread the ideas and progress to a worldwide audience.

The aim is to have 100 per cent of industry members signed up by the end of 2016.

I realise the Irish farms are comparatively tiny, enabling Bord Bia to measure carbon footprints at 800 farms a week. But what they are acquiring is a national database of the sustainability improvements being made at every level, with independent auditing being done continuously and long-term.

When Ireland makes claims about improvements in sustainability and their efforts about climate change in future, they will have the data to prove it.

Pervading inertia

At a Massey University Alumni function held in Hamilton during Fieldays, Prof Ralph Sims, of the School of

Engineering and Advanced Technology at Massey, gave a stimulating talk about the inertia pervading New Zealand on climate change efforts, pointing out the lack of cohesion or leadership being shown by the multiple parties which could be making a difference.

Seemingly remote

With our science systems being expected to make profits, and the increasing lack of communication between scientists, producers and the public, the chances of New Zealand achieving anything like an Origin Green system seem somewhat remote at present.

Whereas Ireland has started with government, and incorporated measurable systems, defined recruitment processes, and set up a central database to prove they are getting somewhere.

Our countries are much the same

Page 11

size and population, so blaming our problems on all those four-footed animals isn’t going to continue to impress those making real and measurable efforts elsewhere.

With the present Government’s focus on passing all development of systems and measurements ‘down the line’ in relation to the environment and climate change, what are we going to be able to produce to actually prove we have made concerted efforts by the time of the next world measurement meeting?

Sue Edmonds

Page 12

SHEEP & BEEF

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Calcium and health New Zealand dairy farmers are urged to tip their thinking about calcium supplements and wintering on its head, to get the most out of their herd’s production into spring time and beyond.

Dr Joe McGrath is nutrition company DSM’s Asia-Pacific manager, and is adjunct senior lecturer in ruminant nutrition at the University of New England in Australia. His research focuses on the critical relationship between macrominerals, primarily calcium, and health.

“Typically what happens is the cow will experience a natural decline in feed intake from two weeks out before calving, during that transition period.

“That period requires good management to balance that tendency, ensuring she continues to get sufficient energy, minerals and vitamins as she approaches a very high stress period.”

Most dairy farmers will know something about the transition period being important, but not all may be aware how managing it effectively can bring on going benefits beyond calving, and well into lactation.

Immune function

Deficiencies in calcium during that period culminate in impaired immune function, causing problems including retained placenta and ketosis.

Post-calving metabolic problems like milk fever, or hypocalcaemia, can also be more common in cows poorly managed during transition.

Lowered calcium levels result from the significant demand for calcium to supply colostrum production post-calving.

“A cow producing 10 litres of colostrum may lose

23g of calcium in one milking alone.”

At those demand levels a calcium deficit can quickly develop, and the resulting ‘down cow’ can bring a cascade of secondary problems taxing her own health, and the time of herd managers in trying to rectify them during a busy time of the year.

But Joe cautions it is also the cows that don’t go down, but are still sub-clinically hypocalcaemic that lurk in a herd like the unseen bulk of an iceberg. For every clinical cow there can be up to 10 times the number in sub-clinical cows.

“If you add in the effect of high potassium, nitrate and ammonia intake from ingesting young green grass, magnesium absorption is reduced and the cow’s ability to mobilise calcium will be reduced even further.”

Often farmers will adopt a transition programme to lower the Dietary Cation-Anion Difference – known as DCAD – into a ‘negative’ or acidic level by feeding anionic salts. This improves the cow’s ability to mobilise calcium.

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Bone wastage

It activates the movement of calcium from her skeleton in preparation for the high demand colostrum production will place upon her calcium reserves.

“But with low DCAD diets, mobilising those levels of calcium can also run the risk a cow suffers from excessive bone wastage every lactation. Furthermore, a negative DCAD diet is almost impossible to achieve in New Zealand’s grass-based systems.”

Sourcing calcium from somewhere other than her skeleton would appear a good option. But farmers also risk worsening milk fever by feeding a calcium-based supplement during the transition period.

“During several lactations the continual draw down on her skeleton’s calcium, and that risk of traumatic events, make life hard for cows during this stressful ...continued period.

Coast & Country News July 2016

SHEEP & BEEF

Page 13

New approach to transition feeding favoured continued...

“Even when she is optimally fed, a cow will be in a calcium deficit for the first six to nine weeks post-calving, typically losing skeletal mass post-calving, and only regaining some of it back during the late lactation-dry period.”

Published data indicates that during early lactation a cow can lose between 0.3kg-1.5kg of calcium from her bone structure. That can reduce her fertility, impact on her health, and ultimately reduce her longevity within the herd.

But absorption of calcium sourced from her diet, rather than just her skeleton, requires adequate levels of activated vitamin D to make it available.

“However, her vitamin D levels will be lowest during late-winter to spring, the same time her calcium demand is greatest.”

Phosphorous-rich spring grass will also further inhibit a cow’s ability to activate sufficient levels of vitamin D post-calving.

As a result of the cow’s failure to metabolise that dietary calcium properly, they can suffer from milk fever.

To help manage the critical transition period, DSM developed Tranzsol to provide cows with a metabolisable, safe source of dietary calcium.

Tranzsol contains lime-flour, and a patented form of activated vitamin D called Hy-D. The

presence of Hy-D with the lime-flour ensures effective, safe levels of calcium for the cow during the transition period.

“A cow’s ability to get sufficient calcium is usually compromised by a complex interaction between available calcium, magnesium levels, phosphorous levels and vitamin D. “The presence of Hy-D in Tranzsol enables her to absorb the supplied dietary calcium.

In New Zealand-based studies this has lifted calcium blood concentrations by 30 per cent, compared to when only feeding anionic salts usually used in DCAD diets.”

Joe says using Tranzsol in a transition pro-

Helping feed the planet is among Sarah’s goals Agricultural student Sarah Ross of Pukekohe is bucking a trend – and she’s just won a $2500 scholarship from Agcarm to help her do it.

The 19-year-old bachelor of agricultural science student at Massey University says agriculture isn’t the usual occupation touted to city school-leavers, but she sees it as an exciting career path with many options.

“Often in the city it’s about lawyers and doctors,” says Sarah.

Initially, she tentatively chose agriculture as her vocation, with her peers “assuming I wanted to be a farmer in Palmerston North for the rest of my life”. Now in her second year at Massey, Sarah says: “The beauty of agriculture is the diversity it offers”.

Agriculture appealed to Sarah because “it matched a lot of what I was into – the subjects, my interests as well as the bigger issues and

Agcarm chief executive Mark Ross with scholarship agricultural student Sarah Ross. opportunities within it”. She is interested in sustainability, global warming, feeding a growing planet and the environment – and what impact this will have on agriculture.

Her ultimate goal is to work in less privileged nations, educating growers about how

to better manage crops and increase yields. Agcarm chief executive Mark Ross says the association is pleased to help a positive, motivated, and enthusiastic student reach her goals.

“We were impressed with her ideas, academic achievements, and work ethic,” says Ross.

Agcarm has two scholarships to support education and raise awareness about careers in Agcarmrelated industries.

The winner of the veterinary science scholarship is Sarah R oss.

Ben Mitchell.

gramme gives the cow a pathway to use the calcium in her diet, rather than relying solely upon mobilising her valuable skeletal calcium.

“This idea of supplying calcium in her diet before calving, using Tranzsol, is not common practice in New Zealand. But overseas farmers have used it effectively for years, better managing milk fever risk, and giving cows a healthier start to their lactation, without drawing down on their bone calcium which is what happens to Kiwi cows, year in, year out,” says Joe. “Ultimately, this may result in them leaving the herd too soon on the grounds of health or fertility issues resulting from poor health.”

COUNTRY LIVING

Page 14

July 2016 Coast & Country News

What is an ACL tear and how does it occur?

The ACL, or Anterior Cruciate Ligament, is a strong piece of connective tissue which attaches the thigh bone – the femur – to your leg bone – or tibia.

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The ACL is referred to as a crucial ligament due to the stability it provides to the knee joint. The job of the ACL is to prevent the tibia from sliding forward relative to the femur.

This ligament is injured in athletes more often than other people. However, injury to the ligament may occur in other ways. Injuries tend to occur when landing awkwardly from a jump, twisting the knee, or suddenly stopping from running.

The ACL may also be injured during knee hyper-extension, or when hit from the outside.

Many times, other tissues surrounding the knee are also damaged including the medial collateral ligament, meniscus, joint cartilage and bone marrow.

A musculoskeletal practitioner can formally grade the severity of ACL injuries. A grade one injury occurs when there is minimal damage to the ligament and the joint remains stable on testing. Grade two injuries occur when the ligament is partially torn. The joint becomes loose on testing, but still provides a degree of stability.

No stability

It may also feel unstable at times, such as a ‘giving way’ sensation.

Poor balance and coordination may also be experienced.

How can physio help?

Non-surgical management of the injured ACL is taken when there is a grade one to grade two injury. Surgical management typically occurs for grade three injuries, and occasionally grade two injuries, to the ACL. Your doctor or physiotherapist can help you decide whether non-surgi-

Grade three constitutes a full tear or rupture of the ligament. There will be no stability provided to the joint on testing.

Physiotherapy is an important part of the treatment of What are the signs and symptoms of an ACL Anterior Cruciate Ligament tears. tear? Many people will report hearing a ‘pop’ in the knee associated with pain at the time of cal or surgical management is best for you. injury. Within a few minutes to hours of injury, there Regardless of surgical or non-surgical management, is likely to be significant joint swelling. your physiotherapist will assist you with improving Decreased range of movement of the knee is your knee’s range of movement, lower limb strength, common, and the injured knee is typically unable to balance, stability and coordination. You will relearn take full weight upon standing or walking. the tasks of walking, using stairs and negotiating obstacles.

Early in rehabilitation, the RICE – or Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevation – protocol is used in conjunction with static resistance-type exercises to improve muscle contraction in the leg and increase blood flow in the area.

Throughout your rehabilitation programme, you will progress through a variety of strength and mobility exercises targeted towards your individual needs, with goals of returning to your favourite sport or hobby as soon and as safely as possible.

COUNTRY LIVING

Coast & Country News July 2016

Chronic illness affects child’s school readiness

Young children with a chronic disease are more likely to fall behind their peers in a wide range of developmental areas, say researchers from the Telethon Kids Institute and University of Western Australia.

Researchers used the 2009 Australian Early Development Census results to determine children’s school readiness.

The AEDC measures children on five domains: social, emotional, language and cognitive skills, communication and general knowledge, and physical wellbeing.

The AEDC results of 22,890 West Australian children were linked with hospital and Western Australia Cancer Register data to determine which children had been diagnosed with a chronic disease during early childhood.

Results published in the journal ‘Pediatrics’ show children living with an ongoing serious disease were up to 34 per cent more likely to be behind in their development.

This risk level was elevated further for children who had two or more diagnoses, who were up to 85 per cent more likely to be vulnerable or at risk on the AEDC. Lead author Megan Bell says the study shows chronic illness experienced in early childhood had the potential to

profoundly influence the course of a child’s development.

“Early childhood is a period of rapid growth in abilities which form the foundation for future academic success.

“If chronic illness interrupts a young child’s development, they may start school not ready to learn, and they will struggle to meet the demands of school. We know that, without intervention, children who start school with low levels of school readiness continue to lag behind their peers. Therefore, the effects of chronic illness on development have the potential to be long-lasting, even if the child’s health recovers.

“Although the increase in risk we saw in our study was generally small, the fact these results are being seen at school entry, and are likely to be cumulative over time, highlights the importance of early intervention.”

The three most common chronic conditions recorded were infection of the middle ear (chronic otitis media), chronic respiratory disease, and epilepsy. However, no specific disease had a greater impact on development.

“We therefore recommend that eligibility for early intervention services is based on a child’s functioning, rather than on diagnoses alone,” says Megan.

“It is clear that a child with any chronic disease is at risk of falling behind and it is essential that there is support available.”

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Page 15

Dementia rates set to treble Alzheimers New Zealand is calling for Kiwis to ‘Get their heads around dementia’.

Right now, two out of three people in New Zealand are affected in some way by dementia and almost 60,000 people have been diagnosed.

And those numbers are predicted to grow.

By the year 2050, there will be an estimated 150,000 people diagnosed with dementia.

International dementia expert Professor Graham Stokes recently told Radio NZ News this was a “huge challenge”.

“We have no magnificent cure coming our way in the foreseeable future.

“Governments are not able to fund dementia adequately and this won’t change; so we need our communities to support their own.”

Graham says we need to improve education, attitudes and awareness of dementia, and to look at the design of our urban environments so those with dementia are enabled to remain and cope in their community.

Miranda Smith of Miranda Smith Homecare

echoes these sentiments. Miranda says allowing people to remain living in their own homes in their own communities can be a life-line for dementia sufferers.

Having cared for hundreds of people with dementia she knows first-hand how important familiar surroundings, people and continuity of care is.

“People with dementia don’t want more doctors or hospital beds.

“They want to remain living at home surrounded by the things, people and routines that are important to them.”

Common dementia symptoms include changes in a person’s memory, thinking, behaviour, personality and emotions; and these impact on a person’s everyday life.

“With the number of people to be affected by dementia in New Zealand predicted to treble by 2050 – it is time for us to get our heads around dementia,” says Miranda.

HOMECARE

Independence is vital to maintaining a quality of life.

Page 16

COUNTRY LIVING

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July 2016 Coast & Country News

What is required for success in horticulture?

Horticulture is going through a growth phase.

Pukekohe, Hamilton, Matamata, Tauranga, Whakatane, Hastings, Gisborne, Palmerston North, Ohakune, Levin, Otaki, Richmond/ Nelson, Christchurch, Alexandra and the greater Queenstown area. In other words nearly all the major growing areas.

During the last 30 years, horticultural exports have grown from $NZ 500 million to $NZ 2.7 billion. Including domestic sales, the horticultural industry is worth in excess of $NZ 5 billion annually and it employs more than 50,000 people.

The growth is across most of the commercial horticultural products â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not only kiwifruit, avocados and apples, but also cherries, berries, onions and potatoes.

This is growth in how much is being produced and, most importantly, value â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the return to growers. This allows for increased investment and ďŹ nancial beneďŹ ts for the growing regions in New Zealand.

The problem we face, and it is a good problem, is growth is constrained by the following key factors: water, labour, land, world leading varieties â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the best gold kiwifruit for example â&#x20AC;&#x201C; lifestyle blocks, urban encouragement, market access, coordinated marketing, to name but a few.

In this article I will comment on labour and urban encroachment.

Horticulture is labour-intensive. For many products, seasonal labour â&#x20AC;&#x201C; often with large numbers of workers for relatively short periods of time â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is required.

There are also many permanent jobs that Horticulture is a high paying long term career for require a whole range of skill levels. those who commit to it.

Without access to both permanent and The industry has a target of $10 billion in value by seasonal labour growth is not possible. Every horticul2020. Horticulture is a key part of New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tural job requires a level of skill if the piece of fruit or growth agenda to double exports, but it cannot convegetable is going to be the best possible quality and is tinue to grow if the land as a ďŹ nite resource continues going to give the best eating experience. to be urbanised at the current rates.

Drug-free

Care and skill are required to produce what consumers will pay top dollar for, especially in the high-paying export markets. Workers, as well as having to be skilled, also need to be drug-free and need to consistently turn up for work.

The horticultural industry is running programmes throughout the country in conjunction with Work and Income sourcing workers with the aim of giving them skills and permanent jobs. There is a myth that horticulture is a low-paying career. As with any career, pay rates are lower at the start. As skills and experience are developed pay rates increase accordingly and are rewarded. Horticulture is a high-paying long-term career for those who commit to it.

As the cities spread out and lifestyle blocks become more popular, high value land for horticulture is lost to housing and hobby farms. This is particularly true in Pukekohe with the growth of Auckland. Less than ďŹ ve per cent of New Zealand is available for high value horticultural production.

HortNZ has made more than 40 plan change submissions in the last six years to protect prime and elite, versatile land across the country from subdivision.

Particular pressure areas are Kerikeri, Mahurangi,

Imported vegetables

Not only will export growth be affected. The supply of domestic vegetables will also be impacted with the possibility that New Zealand may have to import vegetables for domestic consumption. For example, the supply of leafy greens to New Zealand in the months of October, November and some of December come mostly from Pukekohe.

If Pukekohe becomes a suburb of Auckland weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be importing leaf greens in these months and shortages of other vegetables such as potatoes and onions may occur.

This will see a rise in the price of vegetables that will not necessarily result in increasing returns for growers. Reduced land for growing fruit and vegetables will result in increased prices and imports. This is not a localised issue; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a national issue with signiďŹ cant cumulative effects for all New Zealanders.

The right workers and high value land for growing are vital ingredients for the continued export growth and the supply at reasonable prices of the fruit and vegetables we eat. As a country, we need to work to ensure as many New Zealanders as possible have jobs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and, for horticulture there is the land for our people to work on.

In St o NOWre !

Coast & Country News July 2016

Driving through old gold mining tunnels is among the highlights of the fully guided 4X4 tours NZ Adventures offer.

Owned and operated by long-time farming couple Robbie and Connie Crickett, the company runs tours for like-minded people to drive their own, or hire a vehicle to drive through the spectacular scenery of the South Island.

They are currently offering six separate tours of either five or six days and also have accommodation in motels, dining at restaurants with some lunches on stations with the run-holders.

Each vehicle is equipped with quality radio communication and Robbie provides a knowledgeable commentary as the trips proceed.

The West Coast Explorer Tour is as different from the more easterly tours as it’s possible to get, says Connie.

“Nowhere is the east-west contrast more notable than on the first day of the West Coast trip when the tawny brown tussocks of North Canterbury, St James Station and Western Molesworth are left behind as the trip suddenly plunges into the verdant beech forests that are a feature of the journey.”

Early highlights of the West Coast Explorer include the tracks on St James, Lake Tennyson and the highest road pass in New Zealand. Overnights on the coast include two nights in Murchison, a night in Westport, Reefton and the last night in Greymouth.

COUNTRY LIVING

Day two of the tour takes in a bush-clad river valley east of Murchison, which is always an adventure.

A highlight of day three is the visit to the Denniston Plateau and the history and coal mining in this historic and sometimes inhospitable place.

“Driving the magical beech-lined tracks near Reefton is the priority on day four.

But for most the absolute highlight of the trip comes on the last day in the forests and farmland inland of Ahaura, where we explore a tunnel system on a property where a stream was diverted in the search for gold.

Search for gold

“We also look at the unique power system which supplies a new home in a relatively isolated area. The overshot water wheel, which the owners constructed, generates electricity through the motors out of a Gentle Annie washing machine.

“Further up the valley into the DOC reserve area of Napoleon Hill we look at various old gold mining operations which include where early miners diverted the original creek through large tunnels to mine the creek floor for gold. Two of the tunnels are driveable with our vehicles – an absolutely spectacular experience.”

The Eastern Explorer is a five-day trip heading South East through the mountain ranges of South Canterbury to overnight at the end of day one at Oamaru. The highlight of the first day has to be the rare chance to drive through Four Peaks Station.

The second day route takes the trip high

This tunnel is among the highlights of the West Coast Explorer Tour. into the Kakanui Mountains of North Otago and a chance to have a look at the volcanic landforms on the Northern Edge of Central Otago. Overnight is in Ranfurly.

Day three takes in view of the Oceania Goldmine at Macraes Flat as well as some great 4x4 tracks in the little-known Strath Taieri area heading down to an overnight in Mosgiel.

Day four takes the trip into the Otago Hinterland and a mixture of forest and farmland. In the afternoon there’s the trip over the Lammermoor range through the Te Papanui Conservation Park to the overnight in historic and quaint Lawrence.

Day five the route follows the Clutha River before turning into the mountains and follows old gold mining routes through very isolated and sparsely settled country before arriving at the journey’s end in Alexandra.

Page 17

WAIKATO FOCUS

Page 18

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Not all waterways ‘going backwards’ Waterways in 80 per cent of New Zealand’s monitored catchments are showing improvement, or stability in water quality, which is at odds with the usual rhetoric, says Dr Paul Le Miere.

Paul, who is Federated Farmers North Island regional policy manager, says statistically validated measurements of water quality from 2004 to 2013 shows promising trends.

And in many cases those results are due to farmers making changes in managements, including effluent and fencing off waterways.

“Everything is not going backwards as you might assume from the rhetoric.”

Paul says the 10-year trend study shows insect life in 87 per cent of monitored waterways is improving or not changing. E-coli in 86 per cent of waterways is improving. The work of farmers’ in effluent management and urban communities with sewerage systems are making significant difference, says Paul.

“Phosphorus is a massive good news story with significance improvement in total phosphorus levels in 94 per cent of waterways, which equates to 10 times more improving than declining – and that’s thanks to the work of dairy and drystock farmers around sediment control, phosphorus use and riparian plantings.

Hot spots

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“Nitrogen improvement, at 64 per cent, is not as high in terms of improving; but it’s not going to hell in a hand basket.”Paul says there is a lag time with nitrogen leaching into ground water and that varies from catchment to catchment.

Federated Farmers is not denying there are problems with water quality, but Paul says most are in “hot spots”, some including sites of former meat works, fertiliser plants or sewerage systems – and these need to be targeted.

“We need to work on those hot spots rather than say everything is going to rack and ruin. We need to understand what is working in catchments, what is making a difference and not assume all are going backwards.”

Federated Farmers supports the National Policy Statement on fresh water and what it is setting out to achieve but has concerns about the scientific knowledge around many of the processes and how some regions are approaching the requirements.

The NPS and other water processes need to focus on the objectives and keep in mind what they are trying to achieve.

And the most cost-effective ways of getting there and under appropriate time periods, giving regard to legacy issues must also be considered, says Paul.

Science skinny

“Current understanding of water science is poor including how things happen and from all sources, including urban and hydro power generation.

“Much is very theoretical and we need to understand better in order to make decent decisions we can live with.”

Enforcing nitrate caps will achieve nothing apart from restricting farmers. “The science is skinny and theoretical. We don’t know the attenuation of nitrogen or when it falls out of the root zone. We don’t know what happens in different soils – our knowledge around that is superficial.”

Overseer, the management tool used to measure leaching, is also inconsistent, says Paul.

Elaine Fisher

AVOCADO

Coast & Country News July 2016

Page 19

Harvesting fruit others can’t reach Safely going where no machines have gone before – and harvesting avocados previously left unpicked is – what All Terrain Platforms, designed and produced in Katikati, are doing in orchards in New Zealand and Australia.

All Terrain Platforms can work safely on slopes and reach fruit other machines can’t.

Construction and painting companies are using ATPs to access to buildings without the need of scaffolding.

It’s now four years since Don Rust and the team at Mural Town Engineering produced and demonstrated the first ATP able to operate on slopes of up to 25 degrees, while keeping the operator on the level at all times.

Since then the safety and versatility of the machines has seen them bought by contractors and orchardists on both sides of the Tasman.

There is a growing interest from other industries including construction and painting companies, which are finding the ATPs can give access to buildings without the need of scaffolding, or in areas where ground conditions are uneven, or obstructions such as tall hedges impede easy access.

Safety of operators and the ability to harvest previously out-of-reach fruit from trees on steeper terrain is what led Don to design the ATP, which has a unique Dual Oscillating Axle Suspension system which reduces the ‘bump’ effect of obstacles by up to 80 per cent.

Safe limits

DOAS also continuously auto-stabilises the machine both on-the-run, and when static, and side-levels the main chassis up to 20 degrees.

The ATPs have all-direction maximum operating safe slope limits of 25 degrees and 22 degrees, dependent on the set width, and have a warning system to alert the operator if that range is exceeded. All slopes are displayed on-screen and also cage load, so there is no guesswork on this important real-time information.

“When we designed the ATP we knew safety legislations were getting tougher so we built in safety features which in most cases exceed those required,” says Don. “We test to the extreme each machine before it leaves our premises, and we provide training in operation of the ATPs no matter who they are sold to.”

Recent accidents with serious injury, and a fatality of an operator using another kind of elevated picking platform on Australian orchards, resulted in an increase in demand from that country.

“Some of our machines were in the same area, and were the only machines that Work Safe Australia permitted to stay in operation while it investigated the accident. That resulted in growers and contractors contacting us with enquiries, and ordering ATPs.” ATP workshop manager Steve Welten carries out most of the training in not only the safe operation of ATPs, but also their best use.

Platforms Ltd, who has four ATPs and between us we can offer a picking service which is efficient at safely harvesting all that valuable fruit.”

The ATPs are joystick-controlled rather than footcontrolled – and, Steve says the operator is able to safely multi-function the controls and is also free to move around in the picking cage.

The 360 degree continuous rotational slew of the ATP is a feature that, when used with the articulated boom, provides a massive ‘work envelope’ which includes up to 6.2m away from the base machine.

The outreach means the base machine does not need to enter the tree for fruit harvest or pruning, so doesn’t cause root structure damage. The drive system is 4×4 with high torque drives; and each drive includes braking, and counterbalance to stop run-away on hills.

The engine throttle is load-controlled, which means the engine will automatically throttle to match only the load required. As a normal day brings many varied load cycles, this translates to significant fuel savings The ATP Super series has a Safe Working Load of 220kg. And the ATP Lite series has a SWL of 200kg.

All Terrain Platforms is about to launch a fifth version of the ATP, the Ultra-Lite, which will be two-wheel drive and rated to 15 degrees safe slope operation.

Std FEATURES x Compliance to AS-NZS 14.18.10 2011 x Continuous 360 o slew x Full proportional controls x Articulated booms x Large work envelope x Levelling chassis x On screenCONTACT slope readout DETAIL x Ph: Cage load indication +64 (0)7 5490766 x Email: Dual oscillating axles info@allterrainplatforms.com www.allterrainplatforms.com x Web: Auto stabilise locks x ‘Bump’ reduction technology x 4x4 (Hi-torque drives) x All drives include braking x 200kg & 220kg SWL

ATP

Picking more fruit

“Because ATP operation doesn’t require that the base gets moved very often there was some talk that ATPs were slower at harvesting. So for several weeks harvesting output was monitored using conventional machines and ATPs in same orchards,” says Steve.

“The results showed the ATP was not only as quick at harvesting fruit on flat ground, but as slope increased was picking significantly faster, to the extent they could also pick fruit that operators on other platforms could not.”

Steve enjoys the machines so much he’s now bought one and operates the contracting business All Terrain Avos Ltd during the harvest season.

“I work with Warren Clark, of Specialised Work

Rating- 25 deg (47%)

www.coastandcountrynews.co.nz

Ph: +64 (0)7 5490766 Email: info@allterrainplatforms.com Web: www.allterrainplatforms.com

Page 20

AVOCADO

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Family company dedicated to avocados KauriPak is a 100 per cent family-owned and operated business based in Katikati, which serves the wider Bay of Plenty, packing solely for Team Avocado Trust members who supply New Zealand’s leading marketers Southern Produce and AVOCO, says KauriPak director Linda Flegg.

“We operate a dedicated avocado-only packhouse which allows us to provide a year-round service for

AVOQUIP

our growers, including picking, bin delivery and pick-up, packing, coolstorage, ripening and distribution.

“The key attribute is KauriPak’s ability to provide a complete service package which caters for all your growing, packing and marketing needs.

“We fully subscribe to the Team philosophy ‘Grower Powered – Market Driven’, and are dedicated to ensuring you get the best possible Orchard Gate Return.

“With more than 30 years of industry experience, KauriPak is well qualified to help you with your crop.

“Our attention to detail, careful harvesting and handling, and efficient packing, will help maximise

KauriPak directors Hugh Moore and Linda Flegg outside the enlarged avocado facility.

export pack-outs and deliver quality that allows our marketers to achieve the best returns. Flow planning is critical and we endeavour to ensure all growers get equal opportunities,” says Linda.

In keeping with the growth of the NZ avocado industry, KauriPak is currently expanding and improving its facilities.

This will increase capacity and futureproof the business to cater for avocado growers.

“We are committed to our growers.

Our mission is to maximise our grower’s returns through efficiency, attention to detail and quality professional, service, while maintaining standards set by the Team Avocado Trust, AVOCO and the avocado industry.

“This season has shown the smart choice is to be a supplier to AVOCO – come and join KauriPak.”

Effective and efficient treatments for phytophthora high pressure, getting the active ingredient to the target sites very effectively. It is not dependent on the transpiration pull of the leaves for product uptake into the trunk, thereby reducing the likelihood of leaf scorching and twig dieback.

StemCap PC-1 is a revolutionary capsule formulation, which slowly dissolves as a result of contact with sap in wood/xylem tissues. The rate of dissolution is affected by the water content of wood/ xylem tissues and provides a prolonged release of PO3 ions to roots.

The StemShot AV-1, in a diluted form, can also be used via the standard syringe method, thereby providing a third application method.

Both of Omnia’s systems overcome chemical mixing and labour intensive Avocado trees in the foreground have lost most treatment methods in the orchard. Both of their leaves while the healthy trees in the methods require pre-drilling holes in the tree stem. background remain in good leaf.

Avocados are highly susceptible to the widespread root disease phytophthora – known as avocado root rot.

The disease causes rotting of actively growing feeder roots, declining tree health and productivity, and eventually leading to tree death.

Australasia research and development specialist Dr Teferi Belayneh says the company called Omnia has developed two treatmenttechniques, StemShot AV-1 and StemCap PC-1.

These assist in inhibiting the disease with the use of phosphorous acid, and both application methods cater for both rapid absorption, via StemShot AV-1, as well as for a more prolonged release of product, via the StemCap PC-1.

StemShot AV-1 is a pressurised trunk injection system that forces concentrated StemShot AV-1 into the tree trunk under

Coast & Country News July 2016

AVOCADO

Page 21

Specialists in applying orchard nutrition Bay Orchard Spreading is able to take care of all of your requirements for all fertilisers, manures and compost – base and side dressings – onto any type of orchard.

accommodate large or small orchards, they can arrange supply of the bulk or bag of fertiliser required, and can co-ordinate the time of operation and the spreading to fit each orchard’s timeframe.

“For friendly, efficient, awesome service, Bay Orchard Spreading can cater for all your spreading needs,” says Tony.

Owner-operator Tony Crapp has been involved in the orchard industry for many years and understands the needs and specific requirements of orchard owners. Tony has spent considerable time in orchards and horticulture, so he’s very familiar with all operations.

“We can either broadcast or ‘band’ spread the product which allows a nice tidy row of variable widths of fertiliser to be laid alongside the kiwifruit plants and around the avocado trees.”

Bay Orchard Spreading has the expertise and equipment to Bay Orchard operate in large or small orchards.

Spreading can

Record returns for avocado growers “These top-up payments have contributed to outstanding Orchard Gate Returns, with local Bay of Plenty growers receiving on average $29.82 per export tray,” says Lynnaire.

Seeka operates a full orchard-to-market programme that includes expert on-orchard support, a free fertiliser programme, “We’ve been workall post-harvest ing with growers to services, and in get the best returns integrated marketing from their orchards. programme that will have Bay of Plenty While helping growavocados being sold ers produce better in Australia and Japan yeilds has been in the distinctive a big factor, our Seeka blue box. growers also know “Our integrated that collectively we service is definitely need to match our a big factor in the picking and supply record payments. Our programme to market growers are closer to demand.” the market and we are Ben Tuck – Seeka Client Relationship Manager and “This includes able to rapidly adjust Seeka’s avocado category manager Lynnaire Avers. supplying our retail supply to generate partners with quality the best returns. We New Zealand avohave a streamlined supply system that delivers quality cados right through the key Christmas and holiday Bay of Plenty avocados to premium retailers,” says period.

Lynnaire.

“To manage a long supply season, Seeka’s growers “Our next harvest season will be starting shortly, are paid late harvest incentives for fruit picked in and our growers are looking forward to reaping the December onwards. rewards of a bumper crop.”

Avocado growers supplying Seeka have enjoyed record payouts for the 2015/2016 season. Seeka’s avocado category manager Lynnaire Avers says higher returns are the result of a close working relationship with local avocado growers.

$29.82 AVERAGE BAY OF PLENTY OGR 2015:16

Proud staff Great returns Happy growers

We love to talk avocados Call our grower support team today.

Lynnaire Avers 021 836 579 Ben Tuck 027 405 7491

Page 22

AVOCADO

Aligning with growers’ needs “Looking forward, we will continue to deliver with With the 2016-2017 avocado season our flexibility around harvest timing, being innovaimminent and the largest industry crop tive in the way that we operate aligning grower needs to-date forecasted at 5.2 million trays, with commercial realisms.” marketers are busy formulating their Just Avocados works closely with five packhouses across the three main flow plans to ensure optimum growing regions, and while this market results. takes a lot of detailed planning, Working in conjunction with its it places Just Avocados well to marketing team, and led by new offer international customers general manager of operations and supply continuity which is grower services Jarrod Redwood, a key component to buildthe Just Avocados grower services ing long-term value-based team is planning the harvest relationships. strategy to match the marketing “As a business Just Avoflow plans. cados has made some key “We are ensuring that we not changes to its marketing only fulfil our customer obligastrategy for the coming tions and have fruit available season, which we believe at the right times, but also treat will add true value to our Jarrod Redwood, Just Avocados GM our growers as individuals, taking growers. operations and grower services. time to understand their orchard’s “From a supply-point-ofindividual needs while not losing sight view we have always treated our of the impact on orchard health and supply base as individuals and we sustainable yields,” says Jarrod, who recently are now aligning that strategy with our joined the Just Avocados team. marketing platform with the goal to optimise “Just Avocados has been committed to offering premium markets, creating value across the total our grower base flexibility within our harvest plans supply chain, while supporting on-orchard best – and this is a strategy we will continue with. As a practice and aiding long-term sustainable yields and family-owned business Just Avocados take pride in return crops year-on-year.” delivering a personal approach.

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Thieves find avocados lucrative great distress to the growers who rely on their crops for income.

“Last season we had about 10 to 15 orchardists report thefts of fruit in our area. The area surrounding Te Puke also had a number of thefts.

One Australian dairy is “A number of offenders reported to have were apprehended placed a sign in on occasions its window and eventually saying ‘No we mancash or aged to stem avocados the flow of kept on the thefts.” premises Tradiovernight’, tionally, indicating Security cameras are being used in orchards. apprehended just how thieves tempting the fruit are to burglars. were charged with theft but in more Katikati Police Sergeant Steve recent times Police have been looking Hindmarsh says one Katikati orchardat charging offenders with burglary ist recently reported about $10,000 in line with the new national crime worth of fruit taken during a two-week recording standards which could see period. harsher penalties imposed.

“It is highly recommended that all Income loss suspicious activity is reported to the Every year there is a spate of thefts Police. If people turn up on properinvolving offenders stealing avocados ties with seemingly poor excuses for from the local orchards; and apart from being there, such as they are looking the loss income from the fruit, the for a missing dog or they are looking industry is also concerned fruit stolen for some random person, then let the before the official harvest starts may Police know. not be safe to eat.

“Ideally, take down the registration Orchardists have to gain a clearance number of the vehicle which that to pick fruit, which must reach indeperson may have arrived in. Don’t be pendently verified dry matter levels to afraid to discreetly take a photograph ensure it will ripen properly; and they of the person or their vehicle without must also provide evidence the fruit making it too obvious what you are has been picked outside of any withup to. holding period for sprays.

“Most importantly, don’t put yourSteve says normally thefts are comselves in danger by trying to apprehend mitted overnight and the orchardists these people for the sake of some fruit. find stripped trees in the morning.

It’s not worth getting hurt over,” says “Sometimes it is only a single tree Steve. and other times multiple trees, causing Elaine Fisher

Avocados are becoming so valuable both in New Zealand and Australia, they are once again the target of thieves.

LOOKING OUT FOR

OUR GROWERS, Talk to our team about the changes being made by Just Avocados to optimise the pool and deliver better “total orchard value.”

Call us on (07) 549 3027 Email us today at jarrod@justavocados.co.nz www.justavocados.co.nz

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Coast & Country News July 2016

Avocado growers supporting AVOCO are benefiting from high value returns and the security of belonging to a grower-led, market-focused supply group.

A collaborative partnership between Southern Produce and Primor Produce, AVOCO has enjoyed enormous success in its first three years, securing the supply of 700-plus growers and rewarding them with world-class technical support and less volatile returns at the orchard gate, says AVOCO director Alistair Young.

Export fruit

In 2015-2016, its Bay of Plenty growers received more than $28 per tray on an all size pool average for their export fruit.

“What makes this stellar return even more remarkable is it was achieved while AVOCO supplied fruit to both the high-value Australian market as well as the developing markets of Asia.”

It exported avocados to Japan and other Asian markets through the collaborative entity of AVANZA, which AVOCO will 100 per cent own before harvesting starts next season after a third shareholder exits the joint venture.

Alistair says AVOCO is 100 per cent committed to driving the AVANZA brand.

“AVANZA has a firmly established customer base in markets like Japan, Singapore and South Korea. It’s well positioned to continue serving those health-conscious customers while developing interest in other emerging markets.

“Unlike other exporters, who choose not to futureproof the industry by their lack of support for Asia,

AVOCADO

Page 23

AVOCO’s experienced marketers – and its growers – understand the important role these markets play.

“Being grower-led, AVOCO always has the best interests of its growers and the industry at heart,” says Alistair.

“It’s our aim to maximise returns to growers and our collaborative model means we can do that each and every season – especially when volumes are heavy.”

Five million trays The national crop estimate for 2016-2017 is 7.6 million trays. Out of those, it’s estimated more than five million will be available for export.

AVOCO director John Carroll says having the ability to export into both Australia and Asia was a real advantage for growers during a record-breaking season.

“Our growers naturally want to avoid a repeat of the season they experienced in 2011, when competing exporters flooded the Australian market with avocados and devalued their returns.

“Our model gives us exciting options and means we can plan our harvest to supply fruit at both ends of the season when the different markets value it the most,” says John.

“AVOCO has established really strong relationships with key retailers and wholesalers in Australia, who rely on us to supply them with premium quality New Zealand fruit.

“It’s these relationships – in both Australia and Asia – that are so valuable in a heavy volume season.

“We invite more growers to join us and benefit from a secure future and healthy returns with AVOCO.”

Summerfruit’s leaders

www.coastandcountrynews.co.nz

Tim Jones has been elected as the new chairman of the Summerfruit New Zealand Board with Roger Brownlie as the new vice-chairman.

Gary Bennetts has stepped down after eight years as chairman, but remains as a director for the next three-year term. Tim was formerly vice-chairman of Summerfruit NZ and, as well as growing cherries in Central Otago, is an exporter and runs New Zealand’s largest cherry packhouse.

Chief executive Marie Dawkins says she’s looking forward to working with Tim. “The board has just signed off a new business plan containing some ambitious goals such as becoming a $250 million dollar industry by 2035.

“Tim has a huge wealth of summerfruit industry experience, energy and vision which will be invaluable as we start aligning our strategic and work plans,” says Marie.

We’re all in this together.

Join AVOCO and experience a warm welcome.

5 Grower-led 5 Future proofed 5 Delivering value Leading AVOCO Bay of Plenty growers Hugh Moore, John Schnackenberg and Ron Bailey.

CC010716

Chief executive Marie Dawkins and new chairman Tim Jones with Gary Bennetts at Summerfruit NZ’s conference dinner in Queenstown. Photo by Dianne King.

Page 24

FROST PROTECTION

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Frost fans help growers increase yields and quality Frost fans work by utilising warmer, drier air from the inversion layer to create air movement at the fruiting and flowering height in orchards on still cold nights – preventing damage to flowers, soft tissue and fruit.

Frost fans are a well-proven technology for mitigating the devastating losses that can occur from a significant frost event. However, many growers are now using frost fans as a tool to combat cold damage by programming them to

start automatically based on a present temperature.

Where once frost protection systems would have been used only when a serious frost was forecast, now frost fans will start automatically to prevent damage from cold events that may only last a few hours in the middle of the night or early morning.

Anecdotal evidence from growers has shown while the use of frost fans can save a crop from total loss in a severe frost, they can play a significant role in improving the yields and quality of fruit that can slowly be eroded by multiple previous unrecognised cold events.

Operating fans even during the day can prevent crop damage caused by cold conditions.

Land and Water Forum not the place to sort treaty claims The Crown and Iwi should sort out their issues and the solutions should not be part of the Land and Water Forum deliberations, says Federated Farmers board member and Ashburton sheep and beef farmer Chris Allen.

“These two are the treaty partners and they should go away and sort it out,” says Chris, who has been a national board member for Federated Farmers since 2013 and advocates for water, electricity – he’s the FF

energy spokesperson – and works on pest management portfolios.

Chris is also part of the Land and Water Forum, which brings together a range of stakeholders consisting of industry groups, electricity generators, environmental and recreational non-government organisations, iwi, scientists, and other organisations with a stake in freshwater and land management. They are joined by central and local government participants and all are charged with developing a common direction for freshwater management in New Zealand and to provide advice to the Government.

Chris says this forum is not the place to settle treaty grievances. He has concerns about requirements for iwi to be consulted over Resource Management Act consents too.

“Iwi have involvement in the RMA and like everyone else, should be consulted. But iwi own a huge amount of land and with having to be consulted over the RMA there is a potential for conflict,” says Chris.

Water exclusion

The Land & Water Forum has three types of groups. The ‘Flexi Group’ is made up of five to nine people from Beef & Lamb, DairyNZ, Fish & Game and Federated Farmers. This group worked on the stock drinking water exclusion.

“The stock drinking water exclusion details came from a remit to Federated

Frost Alarms

Farmers national committee.” Chris says its success as part of the forum process shows the importance of farmers making remits to Federated Farmers at a national level.

“The Land and Water Forum has stipulated that farmers can decide the setback of fences and plantings.”

Also as a result of the remit it is possible the Inland Revenue Department will change its tax schedule to allow costs of providing water to stock in paddocks, which have been fenced to keep them out of waterways, to be tax deductible.

Common ground

The forum’s second body is called the ‘Small Group’ and has representatives of 25 different groups around the table. “This is the workhorse on issues, and operates bit like international trade negotiations.”

The ‘Planning Group’ works on the final details then reports to the Government, which has ministries’ representatives sitting in on the discussions.

Finding common ground between such diverse groups is not always easy and when it comes to biodiversity, Fish & Game and Forest & Bird and Federated Farmers need to work out their differences on the terms of reference for the National Policy Statement for Fresh Water Management, says Chris.

While FF and Forest & Bird do have areas of common agreement, especially around predator control, there are other areas in which they are at odds that need to be worked through.

Chris says more work needs to be done on the science around biodiversity, including looking at trends, problems and possible solutions. In some waterways introduced trout may be a threat to native fish species and perhaps should be excluded from them.

Chris farms an irrigated sheep, beef and cropping farm adjacent to the Ashburton River running 4500 stock units. He was among the speakers at the 70th Annual Provincial Conference and AGM for Bay of Plenty Federated Farmers.

Weather Stations | Soil Moisture | Forecasts Water Meter Compliance

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KIWIFRUIT

Coast & Country News July 2016

Page 25

Orchard management proves a great option Growing kiwifruit has become more technical and time-intensive – and Seeka’s general manager grower services Simon Wells says these are key reasons why more growers are choosing to have their orchard professionally managed.

“Growing high value crops requires a lot of specialist knowledge, equipment and time, and many owners are now realising that orchard management is the perfect solution.

“With a Seeka orchard management plan, the orchard owner gets a professional manager who is 100 per cent focused on maximising the production, the crucial element of timing of operations, and the financial return from their orchard.

“The orchard manager forms a close working relationship with the orchard owner; they discuss the options, and the best techniques to drive the financial returns.”

Seeka is New Zealand’s largest kiwifruit grower, with about 1000 hectares in production. With orchards spread throughout the Bay of Plenty, Coromandel and Northland, its orchard managers know ocal growing conditions and how to get the best out of each orchard. Each orchard management plan contains a detailed budget that puts the grower in control of all costs.

“Orchard management normally develops into a long-term relationship between the orchard owner and the manager. Alternatively, orchard owners are opting to have their orchard fully leased by Seeka.With a lease contract, Seeka funds operations and the owner collects a lease payment along with a majority share of the profits from each season’s harvest.

“With a Seeka orchard management or orchard lease contract, the orchard owner can still remain actively interested in their orchard, enjoy much more free time, and keep collecting a rewarding income from their orchard produce,” says Simon.

The timing of critical operations, such as pollination is a key focus for Seeka’s orchard managers.

Spray information available for ‘both sides of the fence’ Seespray is a spray notification and management system for sprayers of orchards, which managing director Victoria Hodge says allows sprayers to get on with their business with less distractions.

Seespray also enables neighbours who live around orchards to get on with life and love where they live because they have the information they need about spray applications, when they need it.

“When using our online platform Seespray, spray notifications and spray management is quick and easy – all spray jobs and notifications are managed from one place.

“Giving sprayers more visibility of what has been sprayed and when, improves efficiencies and significantly reduces the amount of administration required to manage spraying,” says Victoria.

“The beauty is, it can all be done from your smartphone, in the office, or at home with a

few clicks. All the data is ‘cloud-based’, so it’s available wherever you are.”

Seespray’s system allows customers to upload spray information to spray diaries and provides simple ways to access real-time

Keeping everyone informed - Victoria Hodge and Mark Mayston of Seespray.

Photo by Jamie Troughton.

job information for everyone in a “spraying ecosystem”, including orchard managers, owners and neighbours – this means they can organise other orchard tasks more efficiently.

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“Neighbours can sign-up to receive spray notifications on our website, and we are now able to connect all new neighbours to the area, to orchards that are using Seespray, so no one misses a spray notification.

“Seespray customers are able to communicate delays and leave calling neighbours to our team, who all know first-hand exactly what it’s like to be on the other side of the fence.

“Now is the ideal time to review your notification and spray management processes, get in touch with us to find out more and see how easy it is to be up and running before the spray season kicks off,” says Victoria.

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KIWIFRUIT

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Green-field orchard development speciality Thinking about joining the kiwifruit industry and starting green-fields from scratch?

Do you have the land but need advice on land preparation and require the structure? If so CPS Services Ltd should be your first call.

Green-field kiwifruit development is a specialty of CPS Services.

Steve has a background in horticulture and agriculture and with more than 35 years of actual hands-on experience in kiwifruit orcharding alone. This means he can look at a project from that perspective; and he uses his background to ensure the development is user-friendly, makes the best use out of the land contour and is cost-effective. He works with the customer, who has the land knowledge history, to get the best result.

CPS Services Ltd is the total package with the ability to carry out and deliver exactly what the client needs.

The company also specialises in a full range of farm buildings, from rural and lifestyle to small commercial turn-key projects.

Designed and built by licensed contractors to suit and service your needs, including the supply of materials and labour, or there’s an option of just the materials if you choose to build your own. Project management services are also available if necessary.

CPS Services Ltd can take away the hassle of council consent or permit approval acting as the agent on the client’s behalf for the full lodgement process.

“This frees up customer’s time and gives them peace of mind that a qualified, experienced expert is completing the job.”

This company can take care of all the work, creation, design and project management, followed by the full supply of materials and labour if need be.

Managing director Steve Butler says his company is an expert in ‘green-fields’ developments and has the experience to prove it.

Kiwifruit orchard development, redevelopment repairs and maintenance are the backbone of CPS Services Ltd. “Fencing, retaining walls, kiwifruit vine training structures and of course farm buildings – sheds, shelters, stables and implement sheds are built to your design.

“We can manage projects from start to finish, we have the best contacts so we get CPS Services specialises in a full range of farm, rural the best prices which we can pass on to our and lifestyle building. clients.”

NZ kiwifruit more affordable in Korea Korean consumers can now buy New Zealand kiwifruit at more affordable prices thanks to the Free Trade Agreement between the two countries.

And the good news is New Zealand growers are better off too.

During 2014, before the trade agreement came into effect, Zespri growers paid about $22 million in tariffs, with the rate set at 45 per cent.

Under the FTA, which was ratified with South Korea last year, tariffs on New Zealand kiwifruit will be reduced to zero during the next five years.

The New Zealand Embassy in Korea, together with NZ kiwifruit brand Zespri, held a promotional event to celebrate the price reduction.

Korean consumers can now enjoy cheaper Zespri Kiwifruit.

New Zealand Ambassador Clare Fearnley says: “Known for its superb quality and taste, New Zealand kiwifruit have been enjoyed by Korean consumers for the last 25 years and we hope that through the Korea-New Zealand FTA, will continue to be loved by Korean consumers”. New Zealand also strives for mutual growth with the local kiwifruit orchards, having signed a partnership with Seogwipo in 2004 to grow gold kiwifruits in Jeju.

“This allows kiwifruit grown in New Zealand to be available in the summer and kiwifruit from Jeju to be available in the winter.”

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We specialise within the kiwi fruit industry, We have the equipment to spray orchards with our two Atom sprayers and one recently purchased Tracatom Formula tractor which is also available for mulching and mowing.

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Coast & Country News July 2016

KIWIFRUIT

Page 27

Kiwifruit sprayers produced in Te Puke A new kiwifruit sprayer has been developed specifically for New Zealand orchards, thanks to a partnership between Te Puke spray business Splash Direct and Australian equipment company Croplands.

The development of the Cropliner sprayer marks the return to the Bay of Plenty for manufacturing spraying equipment, after almost 25 years since such specialist equipment was manufactured locally for the country’s largest horticultural sector.

The Splash Direct team, with the new Cropliner sprayer, is Craig Bell, Glen Dovaston, Brent ‘Woody’ Woodcock, and Dave Dobbe.

All key components of the Cropliner sprayer are to be assembled and serviced from the Splash Direct premises in the heart of kiwifruit country.

Precise placement

Splash Direct owner Craig Bell says the decision to move into assembling the new sprayer was not made lightly.

He attributes the project’s success to a number of strengths on both sides of the partnership.

“Croplands bought some muscle to the project with their ability to source quality components in quantities and offered valuable input to the sprayer’s design, ensuring it will deliver exactly what kiwifruit growers want in terms of spray coverage, safety and efficiency.”

This includes working with Italian manufacturers to develop a fan that would deliver more precise spray placement, minimising drift and noise levels in the process.

Splash Direct will deliver both a trailer and a self-propelled version of the Croplands sprayer.

Local knowledge and reputation was a big part of the decision.

“Craig’s business is heavily reliant upon the kiwifruit industry.

He has built up a lot of specialist knowledge on the critical area of spray application. But just as importantly, a base of very loyal customers thanks to that knowledge, and the service Splash Direct offers them,” says Croplands area sales manager Greg Small.

The company is employing additional staff to work assembling the sprayers, with tanks and components being

imported, while the trailer chassis will be built onsite.

“We will have a four-man team in our workshop committed to the assembly, who are very familiar with both the crop it will be used in and the type of equipment the sprayers will be kitted out with,” says Craig.

The Croplands Cropliner is a standardised model, meaning significant economies of scale is achieved when purchasing and assembling its components, and ensuring competitive pricing.

Grower feedback

“Many of the features built in to the Cropliner sprayer have also been incorporated after listening to feedback from local growers and advisors. This includes lowering the sprayer’s height to be capable of travelling under heavily fruited low hanging vines, and sourcing a tank that maximises pump suction from its sump.”

The self-propelled sprayer is also one that Greg, from Croplands, and Craig, from Splash Direct, are particularly excited about.

“This marks a real first for the market, where we can offer a self-propelled machine that is very robust and extremely price competitive. We believe it offers many more orchardists an affordable self-propelled option they have not had until now.”

The partnership has combined knowledge to produce a sprayer that meets kiwifruit growers’ needs in a way no other has.

“We have listened to what growers have said over the years about where improvements can be made, and built them into this equipment – it’s high quality equipment tuned to local growers’ needs.”

Return on investment per hectare for kiwifruit outshines the returns for many other horticultural or agricultural endeavours.

Coolstores Ltd, as well as packing fruit Kiwifruit have been making for independent growers, run a fully headlines for a few years now. operational horticultural division for In 2010 the bacterial disease, Psa-V, operating all aspects of your orchard hit New Zealand’s kiwifruit vines and management from winter pruning, soil, the public watched as the industry canopy and spray management right worked together through difficult times through to harvest.” to assist growers and combat the effects.

There are a full range of options avail“Sadly there were some casualties. able, allowing orchard owners as much However, the combined knowledge or as little input as they like. and resources resulted in changes to the A detailed plan is worked through way things are done on orchards and with owners, explaining the work onprompted a change to the main variety orchard and giving options on who is of gold kiwifruit grown here,” says Aon- responsible for each task. gatete Coolstores Ltd grower services “There are a lot of owners new to the manager Tracey Chinnery. industry who want to learn and take “The industry as a whole has bounced over operations on their property and back and is proving itself to be a NZ we work with them to maximise the success story.” potential for their orchard.

People are all talking about house “Aongatete Coolstores Ltd back up prices in Auckland but kiwifruit orchard the flexible management options with prices have skyrocketed in the last few flexible contracts including lease or years. management options to round off the This is being driven by the fantastic total package,” says Tracey. return on investment for kiwifruit per “We are thrilled to have a very expehectare compared to the returns for rienced team, who are achieving great many other horticultural or agricultural results on-orchard which complement endeavours, says Tracey. the performance of our technologically“The best part is that you do not advanced packhouse in harvesting have to be a kiwifruit grower to achieve higher returns for our orchard owners,” these returns. The team at Aongatete says Tracey.

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Page 28

FORESTRY

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Kaimai Ridgeway great walking trail The Kaimai Forest Park could become one of New Zealand’s most accessible and popular outdoor destinations now a volunteer-based community group has been formed to help ensure the newly-named Kaimai Ridgeway reaches its potential as an iconic national walking trail.

ity. “There are some Kaimai Ridgeway superb open ridge Trust chairman Roger tracks which offer Montgomerie says the spectacular views. formation of the trust is “Some tracks are an exciting step towards unstable and exposed enabling greater use and so we are working enjoyment of Kaimai to ensure they will Forest Park. be able to sustain “There are about increased visitor 350km of backcountry numbers for the tracks within the park, longer term.” accessible from about 26 The trust strucentry and exit points, ture is based on two which link in with representatives from what has formerly been deerstalkers, two known as the Kaimai The Te Rereatukahia Hut, which sleeps 12, has undergone a representatives from North South Track. signifi cant makeover thanks to the work of volunteers tramping groups and These have been utilised and support of sponsors. one independent and enjoyed for decades trustee. The trustees are Tony Walton from Auckby a diverse range of groups and individuals, many of land Tramping Club, Stan Lowe from Bay of Plenty who are now part of the Kaimai Ridgeway Trust.”

Deerstalkers, Maureen Coleman from Thames Valley Deerstalkers, independent trustee John Harris, and Modern huts Roger Montgomerie from Kaimai Ramblers Tramping Volunteer groups have put in thousands of hours Group. The key roles of the trust are chairman, Roger opening up and improving facilities and tracks and secretary-treasurer, Tony. throughout the park. Roger says the aim is to build The groups involved in the trust have many years several modern, 12-bed huts about six or seven hours of connection with the park and have routinely been apart along the Kaimai Ridgeway, enabling people to involved in track clearing and maintenance. These roles make a five to seven-day tramp through the ranges. are more formalised under the trust’s management “However, because of its accessibility from road ends agreement with the Department of Conservation, as is on both the Waikato and Bay of Plenty sides of the the upgrade and maintenance of huts. range, it will be possible for people to enjoy shorter day tramps or one or two-night adventures from the numerous points along the way.”

Te Rereatukahia Hut Auckland Tramping Club president Tony Walton and Already Te Rereatukahia Hut, which sleeps 12, has Kaimai Ridgeway Trust member agrees it is time to undergone a significant makeover. “Many hut users upgrade and promote the route. will remember enduring a stay in the cold and damp “The Kaimai Range is a wonderful area of rugged hut, but not anymore,” says Roger. bush; but on the other hand it is very accessible and While the trust has made important steps towards offers a range of experiences.” meeting its goals, there is a long way to go.“We are There is increasing demand for multi-day trips “but looking for more passionate outdoor people to join us trampers, hunters and other park users want more in our ongoing efforts and want to connect positively comfortable accommodation from which to better with as many outdoor enthusiasts as possible.” enjoy the Kaimai Range during a period of a few days”.

For more information about the Kaimai Ridgeway Tony is confident that with upgraded huts and tracks Trust developments and how you can help, see and increased publicity, the area will grow in popularwww.kaimairidgeway.nz Elaine Fisher

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Coast & Country News July 2016

HORTICULTURE

Kiwiberries partnership One of the country’s smallest horticultural industries, NZ KiwiBerry Growers Incorporated, is the latest to sign the Government Industry Agreement deed for biosecurity readiness and response.

Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy approved the application for NZ Primary Industries KiwiBerry Growers Minister Nathan Incorporated to join the Guy and NZ GIA partnership and KiwiBerry Growers the agreement was forIncorporated chair merly recognised at the Geoff Oliver of Te Mystery Creek Fieldays Puke with the GIA last month. agreement certificate Te Puke-based at Fieldays 2016.

NZKGB chair Geoff Oliver says joining the GIA partnership will give the kiwiberry industry the opportunity to influence decisionmaking in the event of a biosecurity response.

“This means we can all work together on managing and responding to the biosecurity risks that impact our industry.”

Often called the ‘baby kiwifruit’, kiwiberries are a smooth-skinned, grapesize version of their larger kiwifruit cousin.

“The kiwiberry sector is going through a significant growth phase, and production is projected to rise from 140,000 export trays in 2016 to 200,000 trays in 2017, so we must do all we can to understand and manage our biggest biosecurity risk and the impacts they could have on our industry,” says Geoff.

The kiwiberry sector comprises of about 40 producing, or soon to be producing, hectares – most of this is based in the Bay of Plenty region. Last year NZKBG generated $4.2m in revenue, with 90 per cent coming from exports.

NZKGB will be represented by Kiwifruit Vine Health, which became the first industry group to sign the GIA deed for biosecurity readiness and response in May 2014.

KVH’s chief executive Barry O’Neil says his organisation is pleased to represent the kiwiberry industry at the decision-making table. “We have a commonality of biosecurity issues. Kiwiberry are likely to be susceptible to many of the same pests and diseases as other kiwifruit cultivars, so working together in partnership makes sense.”

“We’re currently working to determine what pests and diseases will be the biggest threats to kiwiberry and identify what readiness activities are required to mitigate the risk of these threats.”

About Government Industry Agreement GIA operates as a partnership between industry and government to manage pests and diseases that could badly damage New Zealand’s primary industries, our economy, and our environment. It aims to improve biosecurity outcomes and give everyone the confidence that the best decisions are being made.

To find out more about NZ KiwiBerry Growers Inc, visit: www.nzkiwiberry.com Or to find out more about GIA, visit: www.gia.org.nz

Page 29

Farmer joins HortNZ board Former Federated Farmers president Bruce Wills has been appointed to the position of independent board director for Horticulture New Zealand.

The Hawke’s Bay hill country farmer was appointed after an extensive selection process. Bruce joins the board of seven elected grower representatives and one other independent director. He’s been appointed for a three-year term, which starts from July 1.

“I’m thrilled with this appointment and I believe Bruce will make a substantial contribution,” says HortNZ

president Julian Raine.

“Bruce has proven and extensive governance skills, he holds various directorships including Ravensdown and has been appointed to the board of two National Science Challenge projects.

“He also brings a good understanding of resource management issues, which is a key area of work for HortNZ. “And he has the ability to bring together disparate groups into a cohesive force. We are looking forward to working with him.”

GIA secretariat manager Steve Rich welcomes NZKBG on behalf of the GIA partnership, saying the new addition further strengthens efforts to better deliver biosecurity outcomes. “It’s great to see sectors facing similar risks and concerns joining forces for the purposes of delivering better biosecurity.”

“One of the key benefits of GIA for smaller primary sectors like kiwiberry is the ability to partner directly with the other players in the system.”

NZKBG joins Kiwifruit Vine Health, Pipfruit New Zealand Inc, New Zealand Pork, New Zealand Equine Health Association, Onions New Zealand Inc, the NZ Forestry Owners Association, The New Zealand Avocado Growers’ Association, NZ Citrus Growers’ Inc and the Ministry for Primary Industries under the GIA. Elaine Fisher

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CALVING

Page 30

July 2016 Coast & Country News

New anti-scour product set to boost calf health With spring calving fast approaching, launching a new calf anti-scour feed supplement called OptiGuard to the marketplace now is good timing for farmers.

OptiGuard is a very finely milled natural mineral called zeolite. Zeolite is an alumino silicate with a porous threedimensional honeycomb framework with a net negative charge.

The combined honeycomb framework, and net negative charge, allows zeolite to both absorb liquids and compounds.

When fed to calves this provides many advantages to their developing immune systems.

“OptiGuard significantly reduces scours, while enhancing a calf ’s resistance to disease and aiding their digestion processes.

This allows calves to grow to weight more quickly and wean earlier,” says Blue Pacific Minerals agricultural product manager Kelvin Johansson.

“Scouring in calves is the highest contributor to dehydration and so removing the possibility of dehydration enables the calf to utilise the nutrients it is being fed.

“OptiGuard was trialled last year onfarm with phenomenal success, not just by the conditioning of the calves but also by its ease of use.

“OptiGuard produced healthy, happy calves which grew to weight about two weeks earlier than usual, which made for very happy farmers.”

Independent New Zealand studies have measured the absorption capacity of OptiGuard. Trial data shows OptiGuard

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There are about 400 known mycotoxins, and aflatoxins is a very common one.

OptiGuard will be joining the growing range of BioGro certified agricultural health products offered by South Waikatobased business, Blue Pacific Minerals.

Feedback from the marketplace on the agricultural health product range has been

hugely favourable, with farmers realising the many positive effects that adding zeolite-based products to stock feed is having on their livestock health, from young to old.

“It is completely natural and BioGro certified as an input for organics, it is costeffective, it has so many benefits in terms of animal health, and is also beneficial to the environment.

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Coast & Country News July 2016

CALVING

Page 31

Many farms use prebiotic fibre as staple for calf diets The prebiotic fibre for gut-friendly feeding called Opticell Plus UF is now more accessible to calf-rearers throughout the Waikato and Bay of Plenty, with set delivery prices for farm delivery.

digestion, which is crucial in those first few weeks with feeder calves.

The cost is nine cents per day, a small price to pay to help keep issues at bay. Prevention is definitely the answer in calf husbandry, says Jen.

BEC Feed Solutions technical services officer Jen McCarty says Opticell Plus UF is a naturally-derived prebiotic fibre, developed for inclusion in calf milk replacer or whole milk that nurtures and promotes ‘eubiosis’ or a good balance of microbes within the digestive tract.

“Farmers throughout the Waikato were at first sceptical at the mentioned benefits of Opticell UF, and often only bought one bag to try; but now they buy three bags at time.

“Many say it’s ‘life changing’ and just as valuable to the calf-rearing operation as milk and calf meal.

“Since introducing Opticell to New Zealand last year, calf-rearers have told us it’s a staple in calf diets from day one and they wouldn’t be without it,” says Jen. The products helps to maintain healthly

A $600,000 boost for rural support The Bay of Plenty Rural Support Trust has welcomed the announcement that Health Minister Jonathan Coleman and Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy have committed another joint funding boost to rural mental health.

The Ministers were joined by Prime Minister John Key to announce the $600,000 for Rural Mental Wellness at Fieldays, a continuation of last year’s investment.

“The funding announcement recognises that we have ongoing work to do, supporting the mental health of farmers, their families, employees, and others in rural New Zealand,” says Bay of Plenty Rural Support Trust chair Sandy Scarrow.

“Our trust has been able to increase the number of facilitators on-board to work with people in the rural sector.

“We have also been able to upskill our team. You will see more of us in the next year as one of our facilita-

tors, Igor Gerritsen, rolls out a series of GoodYarn workshops for farmers and rural professionals.”

Jonathan says the Government recognises rural life goes in cycles, with ups and downs.

“We are committed to supporting our rural communities. The Rural Mental Wellness initiative is the right mix of further raising awareness of mental health issues within rural communities, coupled with practical help to improve the skills of the health professionals who work alongside the rural sector.

“This joint investment will help to ensure we maintain the momentum achieved last year, while also putting a plan in place for the future.”

Nathan says the new funding will help to strengthen local networks for farmers, workers and families in rural communities.

Rural support trusts are a network of 14 autonomous trusts nationwide, staffed by local people who know their region and farming.

Your trust can be contacted on 0800 787 254 (0800 RURAL HELP) anytime for a free, confidential chat.

Endless hours and cost are quickly chewed up with sick calves, which ultimately may not recover; or do but are of ill-thrift. The most advantageous time is use Opticell plus UF is from day one until about four weeks old, when milk volume and constitution have stabilised.

Opticell encourages water absorption in the colon, which helps to improve faecal quality and reduce incidence of nutritional scours.

“We use Opticell plus UF at home each year when rearing 80-plus calves.

We wouldn’t be without it,” says BEC Feed Solutions’ Trina Parker.

“The biggest observation is the fibrous and solid faeces, so pen management is noticeably cleaner for longer.”

Opticell plus UF can be added to milk from day one to help to counteract nutritional scours when transitioning calves onto new feeding regimes. For example, from twice-a-day feeding to once-a-day, or changing milk source or with feed intake increases.

Page 32

FERTILISER

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Chicken manure – the cost-effective fertiliser

Bennett Fertilisers – suppliers of chicken manure fertilisers to pastures, cropping paddocks and orchards – and now also supplying a new 50:50 compost blend.

A natural all-year-round fertiliser, chicken manure is one of the most cost-effective fertilisers on the market and totally free of harmful chemicals.

This valuable resource contains mostly organic matter, supplies beneficial nutrients, helps hold moisture, improves soil structure and encourages organisms such as earth worms, says Bennett Fertilisers’ sales manager Steve Bayliss.

“This makes it perfect for use on pasture, maize crops, orchards, market gardens and lifestyle blocks. Plus, we now have our new 50:50 compost blend which is ideal for kiwifruit.”

Due to its unique composition, chicken manure is a good source of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium – and provides all of the desirable nutrients needed for plant growth.

Chicken manure can also boast a number of other valuable macronutrients including sulphur, sodium, calcium and magnesium as well as a number of micronutrients.

Organic content “Chicken litter is not only fast-reacting, but offers sustained, slow release of nitrogen and phosphate.

“This continuous release of nutrients results in reduced leaching,” says Steve.

“Importantly, it can be used to fertilise all types of pasture and forage

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crops where high levels of production are required.”

A major advantage of chicken manure is its high organic content, which helps build organic matter and increase the humus content of soil.

With the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods, this in turn fosters increased water holding capacity and increases the summer production and resilience of pastures.

“High levels of beneficial bacterial, fungi and soil fauna make the litter highly attractive as manure; and, interestingly, worm populations have been shown to increase in soils where chicken manure has been applied,” says Steve.

“This results in increased aeration and a higher cation exchange capacity.”

Steve says chicken manure fertilisers should be applied annually – ideally in autumn or spring.

Application rates Application rates will vary depending on individual property needs but as a general rule the recommended application rate is: Pasture

2.5T to hectare or 1T to the acre

Cropping 5T to hectare or 2T to the acre For more information, talk to one of the sales team at Bennett Fertilisers, who will assist with working out the right solution for your property.

DAIRY

Coast & Country News July 2016

Page 33

Feeding heifers ‘obscene’ amounts of milk pays off

For every kilogram of average daily weight-gain pre-weaning, a heifer will produce an additional 32kg milk solids in the first lactation alone, says Phyllis Tichinin of True Health Animal Remedies.

“On a $5 payout that’s about $160 value per kilogram of weight gain.

Powdered milk, or even fresh milk, at four litres per day for eight weeks with calf meal will not deliver this.” Most of the dairy industry uses that rearing approach and three-quarters of heifers fail to reach both weaning and mating target weights set by DairyNZ. “So I’m going to tell you to feed your replacement calves ‘obscene’ amounts of your best quality milk for ridiculous lengths of time.

“Hey, the milk is worth so little in your pocket, why not make a cheap investment in your herd instead that will deliver better production for the next seven to 15 years?”

Phyllis recommends rigging up a system to provide calves free access to milk 24/7. Two-hundred litre drums with teats inserted around the centre

and interior surgical tubes to the bottom of the drum work fine.

“Or keep your calf feeder trailer filled so calves can drink however much they want, whenever they want it – just as though they were on mum. You do need to clean the containers out thoroughly about once a week; but if it turns to yogurt in between, that’s no big deal.”

Giving calves antibiotic milk just sets the stage for early antibiotic resistance in them and may contribute to heifer mastitis. “Don’t do it. It’s a false economy,” says Phyllis.

“Are you sitting down? Good. Keep feeding those heifers fresh milk for at least six months if you really want to see what is possible. It is impossible to over-feed heifers under this system.

They do not need expensive genetically-modified meal.

“Just honour Mother Nature’s wisdom on this one and try to duplicate it as best you can. Give them ad lib milk, hay and grass. The results are stunning. I’m happy to provide the names of farmers who do it.”

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DAIRY

Page 34

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Preventing milk fever and grass staggers During the dry period, cowsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; metabolisms gradually builds and then increases quickly once lactation starts. This is most notably seen with the demand for two key macrominerals â&#x20AC;&#x201C;calcium and magnesium.

Calcium is an essential component of the skeleton and serves a role in muscle contractions, blood coagulation, enzyme activity and hormonal secretion. Demands rise rapidly when lactation starts and can result in milk fever cases as well as subclinical problems.

Subclinical hypocalcaemia â&#x20AC;&#x201C; or low calcium â&#x20AC;&#x201C; has been linked to Sad Cow Syndrome, retained membranes and infertility.

Magnesium is required for the production

of hormones that are important for the absorption of calcium from the gut, and the mobilisation of calcium from bone. Low magnesium levels can suppress a cowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appetite as well as cause irritability in the herd and reduce milk let-down.

Daily dosing

Fortunately, magnesium supplementation prevents grass staggers and helps the cow to mobilise her calcium stores to prevent milk fever. Cows do not store magnesium, therefore daily dosing is required.

This means during a patch of adverse weather and the cows miss out on their daily dose, you can expect some clinical cases. Lush, fast-growing spring pasture is often very low in magnesium.

Calcium and magnesium demands are exceptionally high in the weeks surrounding calving for calf growth and lactation. High producing, older cows are often most susceptible to deďŹ ciency.

Peak milk

It is best to avoid supplementing calcium in the three weeks before calving as the cow needs to prime her body to mobilise her own calcium stores. So as an example, additional lime-ďŹ&#x201A;our should be stopped.

Magnesium supplementation should begin about one month prior to the start of calving and

continue until peak milk is achieved, which is normally up to four to six weeks after the last cow has calved. Supplementation can be achieved in a variety of ways: â&#x20AC;˘ Dusting pasture with magnesium oxide at a rate of about 100g per cow per day. â&#x20AC;˘ Drenching with magnesium oxide at a rate of 30-40g per cow per day. â&#x20AC;˘ Maize silage is naturally very low in magnesium, calcium and salt, so needs to be balanced by adding these elements. If cows are eating a lot of supplement it is possible to add magnesium to this feed at a rate of 60g per cow per day. Note the 60g is additional to the base magnesium added to the maize silage to help balance the ration value. â&#x20AC;˘ Magnesium sulphate or chloride may also be added to the water supply, but care must be taken not to make the water unpalatable, as magnesium tastes bitter.

Flavour enhancers may assist. â&#x20AC;˘ Slow-release magnesium capsules are also available, but these alone will not provide enough. They may be indicated for cows grazing where dusting and water supplementation are impractical.

The options above should allow for typically no more than two to three per cent of your cows succumbing to metabolic disease. If thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more than that talk to your local vet for speciďŹ c management around calving to prevent problems getting out of hand.

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The huge rise in the milk payout to organic dairy farmers is a welcome encouragement for the dairy sector to move towards clean, green and highvalue production, according to the Soil & Health Association.

Fonterra has announced a big jump in the milk payout to organic farmers, due to increasing global demand. For the 2016-2017 season organic farmers will receive $9.20 per kilogram of milk solids, up from the current organic price of $5.65kg/ms.

Non-organic milk solids fetch just $3.90kg/ms. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Consumers worldwide are demanding safe, healthy food, and are prepared to pay for high quality, GE-free, organic dairy products,â&#x20AC;? says of Soil & Healthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s co-chair Marion Thomson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great to see Fonterra responding to this demand. Their announcement is a much more positive backing of organic dairy farmers than we have seen from them in the past.â&#x20AC;?

New Zealand organic dairy consumption mirrors the global trend.

Domestic organic milk sales reportedly rose by 50 per cent in 2014, according to the recently released NZ Organic Market Report. Nearly all of the growth in domestic milk sales in 2015 came from organic milk,

according to www.oanz.org/publications/reports.html.

To meet the demand, Soil & Health says organic milk processing needs to be more widely accessible in all regions, including the South Island. Soil & Health expects to see increased interest from farmers in converting to organics. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Organic dairying not only brings in a decent income for farmers, it also results in cleaner rivers and healthier people,â&#x20AC;? says Marion.

Organic dairy farms have a lower environmental footprint than conventional farms, with improved soils and reduced nitrate leaching, resulting in cleaner waterways. Organic farms have lower greenhouse gas emissions and greater carbon capture in the soil. They have lower stocking rates, but receive a premium for a high-value, healthy product. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To help farmers make the transition to organics, Soil & Health would like to see the Government reinstate the successful organic advisory programme. â&#x20AC;&#x153;New Zealand urgently needs to shift away from environmentally unsustainable farming practices and big irrigation schemes, and instead focus on sustainable farming.â&#x20AC;?

About two-thirds of producers who took up the organic advisory programme went on to convert to organics.

DAIRY

Coast & Country News July 2016

Page 35

Attitude – ‘reservedly positive’ out there Dairy farmers are demonstrating their resilience by reducing farm costs in response to the drop in payout.

And my impression is the overall attitude out there is reservedly positive – not gloom and doom.

It is encouraging there were goodsized crowds at Fieldays and several of the exhibitors I spoke to said they received strong inquiries, including for machinery.

Positive view

While dairy might be down, other industries including sheep and beef, kiwifruit and avocados are all doing well, which obviously helps. But it appears even dairy farmers are taking a positive long-term view.

That’s a bit of turn-around from last year when they had to swallow the bitter pill of a significant drop in income. Now many have driven down their costs by reducing labour and getting back in the dairy shed themselves, reducing the cow numbers also the volumes of supplements fed and keeping more cows on-farm during winter.

Also, by looking at all their overall farm cost and cutting back where possible has helped the turnaround The great summer weather and mild autumn-early winter, with six months of good growing conditions, has certainly helped too. It appears for many farmers the cost of production is no longer about $5.25 but could possibly be closer to the current milk price of $4.25 – but of course for many that’s still just breaking even, so things need to improve and most commentators are saying they will.

Good investments

Many farmers are continuing to farm strategically, some even investing in new machinery, which makes sense at today’s low interest rates if their existing gear is costing even more in repairs and maintenance.

One machinery company I spoke to has sold seven mixer wagons in the last six weeks. These are big ticket items and aren’t for System 1 or 2 farms but

those operating System 4 or 5 which are feeding out almost every day with high stocking rates and using a lot of supplementary feed. This is the opposite to what some other farmers are doing; so different approaches from different farmers. Clearly not all farmers are reducing stocks and feed to achieve their goals. Another machinery company has reported nine tractors sold in recent months, eight of them to dairy farmers.

It is obvious from the technology on show at Fieldays and the intense interest in it, particularly from younger farmers, that technology is going to become even more important to the future of efficient farming.

One device I saw was a pasture plate meter fitted with technology to GPS its location and plotting that on Google Maps gives the farmer precise information on which to make decisions about how to graze and fertilise each paddock.

For our own business, we are now planning maize plantings and taking orders for maize silage. Just how many tonnes are ordered will help us to decide on how much to plant and how much land to leave in grass.

I noticed at Fieldays the usual specials for forward orders of Palm Kernel Extract were not on offer, with the prices being firm around $225 to $235 a tonne due to demand from other overseas countries to burn for fuel, but also helped by of the strength of the NZ dollar against the US dollar.

That works out at 27 to 28 cents per kilogram of dry matter; and at that price farmers can afford to pay up to 33 cents/kg/DM for maize silage that’s close to the farm because of its superior feed value at that current price. Refer to the DairyNZ feed calculator.

Increase in milk quality

Buying New Zealand grown, quality maize silage also avoids the concerns around PKE about where it comes from, its quality and the fact Fonterra is trying to reduce the amount farmers feed their cows. To give assurance to overseas buyers that the quality of inputs doesn’t affect the end product.

Interesting to note, reported in April’s

Coast &Country News that with less PKE being fed out this season, milk quality has increased.

This season we also have round bales of good quality wood shavings for sale. They contain about four cubes of wood shavings and are easy and convenient to handle, either for spreading in or topping up calf pens.

Also for duck or chicken farms as well.

These are the personal opinions of Bill Webb.

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DAIRY

Page 36

July 2016 Coast & Country News

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PITGATES

I well remember Professor Philpot at Lincoln University lecturing us on this very point: ‘What goes up will come down’ – and down, it will. Just ask any dairy farmer, who saw his income crash to half after an $8kg/ms payout.

For New Zealand the simplest economic formula applies around supply and demand, with the housing market demand way exceeding supply for housing.

We have about 60,000 extra people arriving and we are building about 20,000 houses.

So, as demand exceeds supply – prices rise.

We saw that when the dairy payout reached $8kg/ms.

Demand for product exceeded supply.

Demand reduced, supply remained constant and down went the price.

Yes, I have ‘rabbited’ on about all this before.

But we apparently need to hear things about 10 times before we actually get the message and start adjusting our thinking and maybe take action. One only has to Google ‘economics’ to find many pundits are telling us we are at the peak and the decline is only a matter of time.

Industry is frenetic

GRUNDFOS ®

New Zealand’s economy has gone through many boom and poor times – about five in my lifetime.

Auckland is so busy building you have to wait three weeks to get a truck-load of concrete. One builder has bought his own concrete truck so he can get the concrete now. My builder friend tells me the industry is frenetic and most people in the industry are so busy and stressed it is frightening. Some have to take ‘stress’ breaks.

Farming has had mixed fortunes with very good returns over most sectors except dairy; and we have already covered that off.

These economic models of the world now make it much harder for economists to get their predictions right.

China has taken on huge amounts of internal debt to build structures and infrastructure. Japan has printed heaps of money and their economy has been stalled for years. The risk here is an international shock could also affect our ‘flying’ real estate economy.

Caution is best The purpose of this ‘philosophy’ is just to remind people that right now caution is the best approach.

The clock is ticking. Interest rates are low and may go down further. Property is booming, confidence is at an all-time high, but it will not last.

My advice is to take a measured approach, be realistic about your expectations, have some cash in reserve, and realise – again – that what has gone up will come down.

Footnote: There is some noise from Auckland about there being a ‘cycle on a cycle’. That this has gone on for seven years and another seven years will follow. I will be very interested to see.

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

Coast & Country News July 2016

Page 37

Glyphosate ruling changes world agriculture The European Union has just refused to grant Monsanto a new licence for glyphosate.

Whichever side of the debate you’re on, it signals the start of a fundamental change in agriculture worldwide.

Sufficient people worldwide have taken action – via protests, petitions, and submissions – which will result in a seismic shift in farming practices. The desire by consumers to eat meat and vegetables grown from soils ‘uncontaminated’ by weedicides, pesticides, and heavy metal residues will continue to change the way food is produced.

However, for a significant number of New Zealand pastoral farmers the glyphosate decision will change little of their present practices, as they already seldom use sprays designed to kill, weeds or pests.

These farmers work on the philosophy: “what grows is the result of the conditions created” and manage their pastures to get the best performance and quality from them, on the basis that “if it’s eaten by an animal it’s not a weed”.

Fifty-year-old pasture

The first question asked by staff of this country’s largest farming organisation on a recent visit to one such farm was: “What’s the pasture renewal programme?” The answer was: “There isn’t one”.

The pasture they were standing in at the time had grown more than 20 tonnes of dry matter in the previous 12 months, contained a wide variety of plants, and had not been renewed in the last 50 years.

New seed will have been sown at some time in that period, but it had

never been sprayed out and re-grassed.

Pastures on the property contain a wide variety of species including chicory, plantain, paspalum and cocksfoot.

The dominant grass is high fertility rye, particularly during autumn and winter, with large-leafed long-stemmed clover present throughout the year.

The soil nutrient programme is

was 25 per cent higher on the property using a CalciZest/DoloZest total nutrient programme.

In the intervening seven years the gap between the two farms has steadily widened, as the low N input property has sequestered carbon, developed humus, and further increased total pasture production.

The coming changes around glyphosate are driven by a fundamental shift in attitude away from battling the elements, fighting pests and diseases, animal

Good enough to eat – clover contains three to four times the amount of calcium of grasses. based on the requirements for clover, and only a single application of less than 20kgN/ha is applied each year in autumn to boost ryegrass growth as the soil cools.

Calcium strength

Clover contains three to four times the amount of calcium of grasses. And for clover to thrive in a sward, a long strong stem is required. Calcium provides the strength for clover to access sufficient sunlight to fix the necessary nitrogen.

The extra pasture grown in latespring and summer allows the making of high quality hay from the genuine surplus. This easily covers the fact that, without regular nitrogen applications, in 2008/2009 measured pasture production compared with a conventional N nutrient programme farm, which showed 17 per cent less total growth in August/October, but 74 per cent more in November/January.

Total pasture growth for that season

Getting lost - a piper’s lament As a bagpiper, I play many gigs.

Recently, I was asked by a funeral director to play at a graveside service for a homeless man.

He had no family or friends, so the service was to be at a pauper’s cemetery in the Nova Scotia backcountry. Because I wasn’t familiar with the backwoods, I got lost and, being a typical man, I didn’t stop for directions.

I finally arrived an hour late and saw the funeral guy had evidently gone and the hearse was nowhere in sight. There were only the diggers and crew left and they were eating lunch. I felt badly and apologised to the men for being late.

I went to the side of the grave and looked down, and the vault lid was already in place. I didn’t know what else to do, so I started to play.

The workers put down their lunches and began to gather around. I played out my heart and soul for this man with no family and friends. I played like I’ve never played before for this homeless man.

And as I played ‘Amazing Grace’, the workers began to weep. They wept, I wept; we all wept together.

When I finished, I packed up my bagpipes and started for my car. Though my head was hung low, my heart was full.

As I opened the door to my car, I heard one of the workers say: “I never seen anything like that before, and I’ve been putting in septic tanks for 20 years”.

Apparently, I’m still lost…it’s a man thing.

ill-health, and environmental regulations, to one of unhurried relaxed observation, with an appreciation that the only option long-term is working with rather than against natural forces.

The change from a conventional nitrogen fertiliser dependent system to a sustainable regenerative one is remarkably easy to implement, and can be instigated this coming spring with no overall reduction in growth or production. For more information, call Peter on 0800 843 809.

DAIRY

Page 38 Authorised Dealers

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Integrated system offers remote control, monitoring and reporting Growsmart Precision VRI with FieldNET provides complete remote pivot management, with VRI control, monitoring and reporting.

Lindsay New Zealand is now offering Growsmart Precision VRI with FieldNET to provide complete remote pivot management, with precision variable rate irrigation control, monitoring and reporting.

“With Precision VRI, growers can precisely apply the correct amount of water over multiple crops, soil types and terrains,” says Richard Hall, who is Lindsay’s Australia and New Zealand regional manager.

“When integrated with FieldNET remote management, growers have the ability to easily create or edit irrigation plans. The detailed irrigation reports assist with better decision-making. Multiple users can also be added with controlled access, which simplifies communication with staff and stakeholders.

Richard says the correct amount of water on every part of the field is essential for maximum yields.

“When coupled with FieldNET, Precision VRI gives growers the pinpoint accuracy they need along with the efficiencies that result from full remote capabilities.

“Configurable inputs allow for real-time system status data feeds, and the cloud-stored back-up reduces maintenance and repair system downtime.”

Ashburton farmer Phill Everest, of Flemington

PHILL STAYS GREEN WITH INCREASED REVENUE Farm owner and agricultural consultant Phill Everest uses Growsmart® Precision VRI to “kill five birds with one stone.” He’s able to improve the sustainability of his dairy operation while reducing its environmental impacts.

Phill sees the benefits in terms of track maintenance and grass growth as well as ensuring the availability of his water. The water he saves under one pivot can be redistributed to irrigate an additional 23ha of his farm.

FieldNET® integrates with Precision VRI to provide complete remote pivot management, with VRI control, monitoring and reporting.

“The first time using the new FieldNET tool for Precision VRI, I found it very easy. It was much simpler and quicker having just the one place to go to control my pivot and manage my Precision plans” Find out how you could benefit from increased water efficiency using Precision VRI with FieldNET by talking to your Zimmatic® dealer or visiting growsmartprecisionvri.co.nz

© 2016 LINDSAY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. ZIMMATIC, FIELDNET AND GROWSMART ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF THE LINDSAY CORPORATION.

Dairies, who uses Precision VRI to irrigate his farm in accordance with local council regulations, demonstrates a passion for environmental efficiency that he hopes others will follow.

Flemington Dairies feature deep silt loams braided by shallower stony soils, the result of historic riverbeds. Springs pop up in wet conditions, and one area of the farm has open drains running down its length.

With precision technology, Phill is able to turn off irrigation over and around pivot ruts, tracks, water troughs, gateways and drains. He also can avoid irrigating boggy areas, reducing rutting and allowing them to recover before changing his plan and irrigating again – effectively managing problems posed by heavy, seasonally waterlogged soils.

“The first time using the new FieldNET tool for Precision VRI, I found it very easy. It was much simpler and quicker having just the one place to go to control my pivot and manage the Precision VRI plans.”

Irrigating 132 hectares, Phill is able to reduce his water usage by 3,350,000 litres in comparison to a standard system applying a uniform rate application of 15mm. The additional water can irrigate an additional 23 hectares on his farm.

For more information about Growsmart Precision VRI with FieldNET, visit your local Zimmatic dealer or growsmartprecisionvri.co.nz

DAIRY

Coast & Country News July 2016

Page 39

Palm kernel useful ‘fast food’

Palm Kernel Extract is like ‘McDonalds for cows’ and serves a purpose when other feeds are in short supply – but is not a quality supplement, says Nutritech International’s animal nutritionist Stuart Lister.

“It’s like fast food for cows – it’s simple to feed out – you just have to ring up and have it delivered, and it can feed straight away, [be] fed today or tomorrow as required.

“From a nutritional point of view, anything which can be broken down by the cow’s rumen bacteria is not a bad feed and when there’s a drought, PKE is better than fresh air.”

However, PKE is high in fibre and has a marked effect on the milk composition because it raises the fat in milk significantly, at the expenses of litres and protein.

“Fonterra’s payment for milk fat is worth up to two or three per cent less

than protein and having high fat milk creates a lot of issues for processing.

“Fonterra’s call for farmers to voluntarily feed no more than 3kg of PKE per cow per day is all around the processing of milk.”

Stuart says the first rule of rumen nutrition is the cow gets only 20 per cent of the nutrition from the food she eats and 80 per cent of nutrition from what the bugs that eat that food produce.

“Looking after the bugs is paramount to the quality of the bacteria in the rumen.

“A lot of fibre in the cow’s diet causes bacteria to flood the fermentation process, producing a lot of acetic acid which in turn produces a lot of fat in milk. Cows fed on PKE also put on weight in the form of fat.”

one end and out the other. “Long fibre, about the length of a cow’s mussel – the kind of mouthful she takes when grazing grass – is the ideal size.”

Chewing the cud is a vital part of the process because the cow gets more nutrients out the food by taking a “second bite”. While doing so she produces a huge amount of saliva, which Stuart says is the best thing to buffer the rumen helping keep the pH to the best level possible.

“The cow’s stomach is a fermentation tank and like any other fermentation system, it is a complex biological process.

“One teaspoon of rumen fluid contains more bacteria than all the humans who have ever walked the earth and science can probably identify only 40 to 50 per cent of those bacteria – there is still a lot of mystery in there.”

Different smell

The effluent from cows fed on PKE definitely smells different from that of cows fed on grass. “It even look different. Grass-fed cows produce dark green effluent while PKE fed cows’ effluent is dull grey and effluent ponds it goes into get a fibre matting on them.”

Stuart agrees Fonterra’s voluntary limit of 3kg of PKE per cow per day is about right. His advice to farms is to feed up to 4kg for winter cows, but to withhold PKE from transitional cows three to four weeks before calving as can it can trigger metabolic issues.

“If you have Jersey cows eating high potassium grasses they can get milk fever if fed PKE as well. You can’t do anything about the breed or the grass; but you can do something about supplement to reduce the risks.”

Elaine Fisher

The publication showcases a range of New Farm Dairies, offering you the opportunity to highlight your particular area of involvement.

Contact Lois today!

027 281 7427 lois@thesun.co.nz

Chewing cud

Another down side is the fibre in PKE is short and so it can’t be returned to chew a second time – a process known as “chewing the cud”.

“That’s why only about 50 per cent of PKE is digestible because it goes in

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Page 40

RURAL DRIVER

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Sharper styling and added equipment define Mazda’s BT-50 for 2016 The Mazda BT-50 has been given a facelift.

But when you consider the changes and additional features found in the 2016 BT-50, it feels more like a complete makeover.

Ultimate Motor Groups’ Mazda sales manager Christine Donaldson says: “Like anyone in business, ute-buyers are looking to get real value for their dollar”.

“The design changes and additional features of the BT-50 are great and when you combine that with the capped price servicing costs of only $200 per service and comprehensive factory warranty of three years or 150,000km, whichever occurs first, recognising the extra distance that business operators cover; this makes it a most compelling proposition for buyers.”

The 2016 BT-50 maintains its distinctive style but a restyling of the front face has resulted in a more aggressive and muscular appearance. The grille has been squared off and Mazda’s sixth generation signature wing has been adopted, which extends into the headlamps horizontally from the lip of the bonnet.

The headlamps also get the sixth generation treatment and the prominence of the indicator lamps is reduced, which further enhances the impression of strength and stability. From side on, the changes to the grille provide the vehicle with a more powerful look. The finish around the tail-lamps goes from chrome to black with the lens colour changed from clear to deep red. The overall result is a BT-50 that looks more rugged compared to the outgoing model.

The interior cabin of the BT-50 is one of the best-looking, functional and most comfortable in the segment. Changes have been made to the seat trims and decoration panels have adopted a gunmetal colour, resulting in a sturdier appearance.

The BT-50 is powered by a five-cylinder 3.2L DOHC intercooled turbo diesel engine with 147kW power and 470Nm torque, giving it a class-leading braked towing capacity of 3500kg. It’s available in six-speed manual or six-speed automatic, with manual mode, transmissions.

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Coast & Country News July 2016

RURAL DRIVER

Page 41

Natasha closing in on the men for national titles Championship action by multi-time champion Chris Birch.

The Glen Eden rider hadn’t defended his 2015 title this season as his commitment to rider coaching kept him otherwise occupied. But he showed up at the final round and took his KTM 250 XC-F to finish the day second overall in the expert grade.

Thames dirtbike rider Natasha Cairns has been winning national titles in the women’s ranks for quite a few years – now she’s closing in on the men too.

The 31-year-old building company salesperson took her KTM 200 XCW bike to again dominate the women’s class when the five-round New Zealand Enduro Championships wrapped up near Tokoroa recently and, remarkably, she also scored highly against the men when she finished overall runner-up in the intermediate grade.

Natasha came very close to stealing away with overall honours too, after she won the intermediate class at the fourth round of five at Waimiha the day before.

However, early series leader Josh Dando, from Loburn, bounced back after finishing third outright in the grade at Waimiha to win the day at Tokoroa and eventually clinch the trophy by six points from Cairns.

“I was pretty stoked to do so well against the men, but I’d rather have won it overall,” says Natasha.

Done enough

Even though he scored points in only one of the five rounds, Birch had still done enough to finish the series 16th

Stuck in bog

“When I won the day at Waimiha it was the best result I’ve ever achieved at the nationals. Traditionally, Waimiha has not been a good place for me, but it all fell into place.

“Actually, the day was nearly all over for me at the first section when I got stuck in a bog. It was just poor line selection on my part and I was just grateful that another rider – actually intermediate grade rival John Buxton from Helensville – who was kind enough to stop and help me out.

“But I was riding more conservatively at Tokoroa and Josh (Dand) was certainly on the case… he smoked me and I congratulate him.”

Meanwhile, in the expert grade, the Tokoroa event signalled a return to New Zealand Enduro

Thames rider Natasha Cairns, on KTM 200 XCW bike, on her way to winning the women’s class and finishing runner-up in the intermediate grade at the 2016 national Enduro Championships final round.

Photo by Andy McGechan, BikesportNZ.com

overall out of the 56 who had entered this season.

Helensville’s Tom Buxtonon his KTM 200 XC bike did enough in placing seventh overall on the first and ninth overall on the second, to finish the series eighth overall against the bigger bikes – and he easily won the expert under-200cc two-stroke crown.

Thames rider Rob Howe, on KTM 250 EXC bike, finished 14th overall to win the expert veterans’ over-40 years class.

Andy McGechan,

BikesportNZ.com

LIFESTYLE FARMING

Page 42

What a difference a month can make.

Last month I reported the Thames Coromandel District Council had announced the decisions version of its new District Plan.

This month many of those decisions, including virtually all those relating to rural subdivision are under appeal at the Envi-

ronment Court. So perhaps we can still gain approvals under the old rules in the interim – it may be your last chance.

This is important to note because some of the rules have changed significantly, contrary to my observation after a quick read while on holiday last month.

And what a difference a word can make. In the case of rural subdivision, the word ‘average’ has been deleted, meaning rather than there being a minimum average area requirement of 20 hectares it is now a minimum lot size of 20ha.

This is a change that has huge significance to the retention of rural production land, as it will force all lifestyle blocks to be more than 20ha in size and encourage wasted land.

Arbitrary decision

The basis of this rule and other changes is being disputed as, in many cases, it appears an arbitrary decision has been made that may not relate to a specific request by a submitter or be supported by detailed analysis. Case law implies this should not happen.

Therefore, it will go to court and TCDC will have to defend its position.

The upshot of this is that, if successful, council will establish this rule – eliminating any lifestyle blocks under 20ha in size. In the meantime, there may well be an opportunity to carry on using the old rules.

This situation reinforces my advice that one should always use the existing rules rather than rely on proposed changes – even if, as notified, they retain the status quo. There has always been this possibility.

Other appeals to the court contest council’s extensive

July 2016 Coast & Country News

application of outstanding natural features and landscape over vast tracts of their land – even when those features cover significantly ‘unnatural’ tracts of agricultural land and forestry blocks. Subdivisions utilising the protection of ecological features outside of the priority areas mapped by council may still be possible, as this rule is also under appeal.

Restrictions

Another hot topic – building a house within the coastal overlay of the rural zone has become a ‘restricted discretionary’ activity rather than the proposed ‘permitted’ activity. This has significant implications in that, whether you own a block or are looking at purchasing, you will not have a ‘right’ to build a house without first obtaining a resource consent from council. Being a discretionary-type application the issue of such consent is not guaranteed, bringing uncertainty to landowners and potentially adding huge cost to the process of building.

You may not have been involved in this process to date but there is still an opportunity to contribute to this process, so if you are affected or want advice on any subdivision matter I’m happy to discuss the opportunities with you – don’t hesitate to give me a call.

Brent Trail, managing director of Surveying Services, specialises in resource consent applications for subdivisions across the Coromandel, Waikato, and Bay of Plenty. For further information call 0800 268 632 or email btrail@ surveyingservices.co.nz

Keeping venison on the chef ’s menu

EMILIO’S TIMBERS EST1981

Venison exporters and Deer Industry NZ are promoting new cuts to chefs to increase returns from the whole deer carcass and to help keep venison on restaurant menus.

DINZ consultant chef Graham Brown says there is a growing trend for chefs to incorporate

cuts from the shoulder, neck and brisket – even offal like hearts, livers, sweetbreads and tongues – into their menus.

“Braised and slow-cooked meats are very fashionable. They provide chefs with a challenge and a point of difference.

“Also, as prices escalate for

the premium cuts, chefs will sometimes provide an item which features, say, a tender pink medallion and something slowcooked, like pulled brisket.

“In this way they can reduce the average cost of the protein on the plate, while giving the diner a great eating experience.”

Coast & Country News July 2016

LIFESTYLE FARMING

Page 43

Matt ceiling cleaning secrets Modern matt-painted ceilings look wonderful, at first, because they fool the eye into not seeing joins, cracks and nail heads. But it is just about impossible to clean a matt ceiling without creating ugly rub-marks in the paint finish.

No matter how gentle you are, as soon as you touch and move any cloth, mop, wet wipe – or any other cleaning agent on a matt ceiling – it flattens the ‘matt-ness’ and creates a shiny mark. Once you have damaged the ceiling like that, the only fix is a costly repaint.

If you try painting over existing fly spots, results can be very upsetting because fly poo, which is acidic, burns through the new paint making its appearance a few hours later. Very confusing and

They use their specialist dry steam equipment to completely remove all fly spots without creating any new rub marks at all. Their system also works well for mould removal, cooking grease and nicotine as well. Check out their videos, testimonials and tips at: www.spotfreeceilings.com

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So what is the solution?

The solution is to call a ceiling clean professional.

The only ceiling clean specialist in New Zealand to guarantee they will not create any new rub-marks in the ceiling finish is Spot Free Ceilings.

Fly poo on a matt-painted ceiling can be successfully removed by Spot Free Ceilings’ cleaning system.

NZ ‘could do better’ for rural communities Communications connectivity and health facilities are among the ‘top priority’ for rural New Zealand, according to those who attended the inaugural RuralFest conference organised

by Rural Health Alliance Aotearoa New Zealand.

The two-day event in Wellington saw representatives from 42 membership organisations come together to discuss the current issues facing rural communities and determine the top five health issues important enough to take into Parliament.

Chairman Dr Jo Scott Jones says the range of concerns reflects the feeling that New Zealand could be doing much better for people who live and work in rural communities.

“The top five issues – research, connectivity, improving wellbeing to address stress, health facilities, and health workforce development – cover the whole spectrum of health service delivery.

“Connectivity is one of the main issues for rural health. Improved standards of connectivity would allow centralised health services to reach into rural communities and develop and deliver more innovative health solutions with greater efficiency,” says Jo.

Fibre speeds

“Prospective staff members in health services are often reluctant to move to rural areas where connectivity standards are substandard. This has impacts on the recruitment and retention of rural health providers in the regions.”

RHANZ would like to see all rural medical facilities connected to fibre-like speeds by 2019 and a more rapid role out of broadband services.

“The Government’s target to provide 99 per cent of the population with more than 50MBs by 2025 will be instrumental in getting rural communities the broadband connectivity required, but we want it by 2020 at the latest.”

Also on the top of the agenda was the issue of rural health facilities, with the group referring to the downgrading and closure of rural hospitals.

“It’s left a gap in rural health and emergency services in communities across New Zealand and the increased separation between patients and vital services is creating a barrier to health services,” says Jo.

Significant gaps

“Current facilities should be maintained and strengthened.”

Other issues put to Parliament included the need to fill the significant gaps in knowledge to inform evidence-based policy making, rural mental health funding and the lack of medical, nursing and social services professionals in rural communities.

“We’d like to see the Government adopt the concept of a pipeline approach to the rural workforce training – keeping rurally focused students in rural areas throughout their training and in their early postgraduate years.”

The next step will see the top priorities developed into a manifesto that will be published in advance of the 2017 elections.

“We know these are big issues that deserve a lot of thinking and exploration before they can be implemented.

“We’re grateful for the opportunity to put our concerns to politicians across the entire political spectrum – from little acorns, great oak trees grow – we hope we have planted a few acorns,” says Jo.

TYRE WORLDga Courtney Road Tauran

EFFLUENT

Page 44

Pond crust gone for 10th the cost?

True!

What this ’Round Earther’ disovered about soil “The earth is flat. How do I know? Because everyone around here believes it.”

Three-hundred years ago, a statement like that wouldn’t have raised a single eyebrow. Back then, belief in a flat earth was so entrenched it was preposterous to think otherwise – and if you did, you were labelled a mad-man.

That’s how widely-held convictions work. The sheer number of ‘believers’ creates a pressure that makes it easy to conform and very difficult to entertain another idea. Back in 2002, some farmers regarded me as a Round Earther. Why? Because I began to seriously look at running my farm on biological principles.

“It doesn’t work,” they told me. “It’s airy-fairy,” they laughed. “That’s not how we do it,” they said.

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July 2016 Coast & Country News

What are the widespread beliefs farmers hold to so deeply, that it seems to them ludicrous to think otherwise? Superphosphate and urea are the way to grow grass. Grass should be grazed at 2800kg/ha to

maintain quality. At 2.5 leaf growth stage grass begins to die and should be grazed by then for best quality and production.

Grass roots grow to 75mm. Overseer measures leaching below the root zone. Weeds are bad and should be sprayed.

Ryegrass is superior and is the feed of choice on a dairy farm. Soil biology doesn’t effect grass growth. Nitrate leaching mainly comes from urine patches.

“These things are true. How do I know? Because everyone around here believes it.” That includes the farm consultants, who are trained to believe in and preach these conventional concepts.

I believed as well

In 2002 I decided to put some other ideas to the test. I challenged the belief that good production was determined by a high usage of nitrogen. I discovered it’s not and took the farm from growing 14 ton dm/ha/yr using 150 units of nitrogen/ha/yr to 19 ton dm/ ha/yr by only using 30 units of nitrogen.

Here’s some other “Round Earth” things I discovered: Farming practices that work with the soil’s biology grows significantly longer root systems. The roots on my farm measured 800mm.

That in itself mitigated leaching and grew better grass.

Biologically correct soil nutrition grows nutrient-dense feed that’s far more palatability.

This type of grass can be allowed to grow longer and can be grazed clean by cows at 3300kg/ha. With a longer grazing period, more grass is grown

meaning less dependance on brought-in feed.

Better conversion

When all 16 soil nutritions are in their right percentages, the biological activity in the soil increases significantly.

This increase in good organisms produces more enzymes which digest the feed in the cow’s gut. This results in better conversion of feed to milk.

You do not see weeping walls or effluent management machinery on biologically-efficient farms.

That’s because the better digestion rates significantly reduces the solid matter in the effluent.

Also, the transfer of good biological activity from the soil-to-grass-to-gutto-effluent means the pond contains a higher ratio of fibre-eating bacteria.

These microbes liquefy the pond.

The higher ratio of good soil organisms suppresses the activity of soil pathogens. This causes a drop in animal sickness – mastitis, facial eczema, foot rot – and the need for remedial measures.

Higher biological activity creates better soil physiology. This increases drainage which reduces pugging. It also raises the soil temperature, which shrinks your winter season length and reduces dry periods because of the extended root systems.

That’s what I discovered from 10 years of biological farming.

Do other farmers have to go through all that in order to believe in a better science? No. All they need is to see a comparative trial - properly done.

Where the procedures are transparent and politics are left out. More on that next time.

EFFLUENT

Coast & Country News July 2016

Page 45

Using modern material to create natural pool Pondco is nearing completion of a large natural swimming pool in a stunning setting on a rural property.

“This pond features a six-metre-wide spillway with a deck built over it and it is designed to run full all the time. Local rainfall could see up to 48,500 litres per hour coming through the spillway,” says Pondco managing director Hamish Forbes.

“The pond is very impressive and will be an awesome thing to have in the owner’s backyard,” says Hamish.

The pond has a Geocomposite phreatic water drainage system and gas drainage strips beneath the liner. A top grade non-woven geotextile was used for this job with a water flow rate of 50gal/min/ft rating. The lining is Carlisle Geo Tough EPDM Rubber membrane.

Hamish says this product is used because it is best to cope with the many different angle changes; and because as this was an old existing pond site some settlement is expected.

“Carlisle EPDM is the very top-of-the-line in EPDM rubber and they are the world’s oldest manufacturer of EPDM. The liner comes with a 20-year material warranty.”

The liner is adhered to the vertical upright retaining walls using a contact adhesive and a primary lining to protect the bonding system from water that flows through the retaining walls.

The liner is held at the base of the wall with custommade termination profile. The top of the walls are held with Carlisle Termination bar and stainless steel fasteners.

Pondco constructed a steeped and lined water-

course, which has large rocks to retain and detain the water as it reaches a natural water way.

A large water wheel has been added and all the retaining walls surrounding the pond are lined on both

This impressive natural swimming pool is being constructed by Pondco.

sides. The tops of the walls are left open and scoria and plants will let this pond breath and be a great look. Circumnavigating the pond is a complex drainage system, which prevents any water getting near the pond edge.

The impressive pond is yet another example of what can be achieved thanks to Pondco’s expertise and the flexibility and durability of the material used.

Phone: 07 362 8433

Page 46

FARM MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Coast & Country News July 2016

FARM MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT

CAPITAL TRACTORS Keeping the David Brown legacy in action ULTRA COMPACT Grant Cunningham’s David Brown 990 tractor may be decades old, but it looks as good as it did the day it rolled out of the factory.

That’s thanks to 18 months of painstaking restoration of the tractor, which Grant saved from being dismantled and sold for parts.

“It had been used to tow boats at Whitianga; and like most tractors used for that purpose had suffered a lot of corrosion,” says Grant.

“I felt it was too good to be used for parts and its owner, who I knew, agreed to sell it to me because he knew I’d restore it.”

Grant had a particular interest in the tractor because it is the same model as one which was part of his childhood, and owned by his father Tom, when the family farmed at Galatea.

Grant stripped and re-built the David Brown’s body and engine, restoring existing parts where possible and importing new one from companies in the United Kingdom which reproduce authentic parts for a series of vintage and veteran tractor.

Conventional bales Once fully restored, a friend spraypainted the tractor in the distinctive David Brown colours of red and yellow, giving it a good-as-new or even better-than-new look. In 1968 the David Brown livery changed to white and brown.

Today the tractor is back in use, making hay for lifestyle block owners in the Katikati district as part of Grant’s small-scale contracting business – a sideline to his orcharding.

“There is still a small but growing demand for making conventional hay bales and the David Brown is ideal for the job.”

Grant is a member of the Tauranga Vintage Machinery Club, a group he says is as much about the people involved and the social aspect as about machinery.

“We all have a common interest in tractors and machinery and we share ideas and information.

“Like a lot of clubs our membership is getting older and it would be nice to see some younger people take an interest.”

Red and white Grant’s David Brown sports the badge which incorporates the white rose of Yorkshire and the red rose of Lancashire, which was introduced when, in 1955, the company’s tractor division took over the Lancashire firm of Harrison, McGregor & Guest Ltd

which produced the Albion brand of agricultural machinery to complement its tractor product line.

The David Brown company was founded in the United Kingdom in 1860 as a pattern manufacturing company. In 1936 the company began building tractors with Harry Ferguson, pro-

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ducing the Ferguson-Brown tractor.

However, Brown and Ferguson couldn’t agree over tractor design details which led David Brown to design his own version, the VAK1, in secret and launch it at the 1939 Royal Show.

Ferguson went on to form an agreement with Henry Ford in 1938. The David Brown’s tractor division flourished until a worldwide recession saw a slump in tractor sales and the company was bought by JI Case of America, which ultimately led to the Meltham factory in England ending production.

Thanks to tractor enthusiasts like Grant, and the solid engineering which went into the machines, many vintage David Brown tractors are still in action today.

Page 47

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CARTAGE & EARTHWORKS

Page 48

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Primary sector requires 50,000 more staff A new programme celebrating and promoting careers in the primary sector has been launched by Prime Minister John Key and Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy and fellow senior ministers at National Fieldays.

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‘Growing Our Future – Primary Industry Champions’ is a series of videos with well-known and everyday New Zealanders working in the primary sector. “The first video includes Richie McCaw, Sir David Fagan, and Rob and Sonia Waddell, among many others,” says Nathan.

“The aim is to raise awareness of the huge range of exciting careers in the primary sector, their importance to

New Zealand, and encourage young people to consider a career in this broad field.

Nathan says the primary sector is still a major part of the New Zealand economy “but we face big challenges in attracting enough young people into the sector”. By 2025 the sector will need 50,000 more people, and about half of them will require a Level 4 NCEA qualification or higher.

“As part of this initiative, the Ministry for Primary Industries will be releasing a series of short videos featuring everyday primary industry champions including farmers, growers, fishers, foresters, scientists, economists, rural consultants, entrepreneurs and marketing specialists.

“This is part of a range of initiatives from both Government and the wider industry who are working together on a range of programmes to raise awareness of the opportunities out there,” says Nathan.

As part of the launch, the Prime Minister also announced the two winners – Bruce Hunter and Daniel Boulton – of the Emerging Leaders Scholarship for the 2016 Te Hono Movement Stanford Bootcamp in Palo Alto, California. Sponsors for the inaugural scholarship include MPI, The Agricultural and Marketing Research and Development Trust, and Te Hono Movement.

Te Hono Movement’s vision is to accelerate the transformation of the primary sector with a focus on doubling the value of primary sector exports by 2025.

The group comprises diverse alumni of more than 130 chief executives and leaders, representing 80 per cent of the New Zealand primary sector.

The first videos as part of the ‘Growing Our Future – Primary Industry Champions initiative’ are at http://www.mpi.govt.nz/funding-and-programmes/ other-programmes/future-skills/growing-our-future/

Coast & Country News July 2016

CARTAGE & EARTHWORKS

Page 49

Stationery baler inspired model-maker The bright blue and yellow Booth & MacDonald stationary hay baler, which featured on the cover of May 2016’s Coast & Country News, has attracted a good deal of interest from readers – including Graham Worsnop of Brisbane.

Graham is not only familiar with the full-size baler, but also with a scaled down model IHC baler made by his late friend Les Brown of Riverston.

“While recently visiting family at Cambridge I saw a copy of Coast & Country News featuring the Tauranga Vintage Machinery Club article on the restored Boothmac hay baler,” he writes.

“My family operated a Boothmac 1A baler around Wellsford in the early 1940s.”

displayed, driven by an electric motor and making real miniature bales of hay, on the stand of Donaghys rope and twine at Mystery Creek Fieldays.”

The model Les made used twine to tie the bales, but originally the bales made by the full-size machine were tied with wire.

Colston believes the model is based on a fullsized International baler, and is not the same as his machine which was manufactured by Christchurch company Booth & MacDonald, probably during

The late Les Brown of Riverston made this model of a stationary hay baler, pictured here on the Donaghys stand at the Mystery Creek Fieldays.

Photo: Graham Warsnop.

While in New Zealand, Graham got in touch with Colston Landon of Tauranga who owns the baler featured in Coast & Country News and who was among those to ‘rescue’ the historic machine from the Kaimai property where it last made hay about 60 years ago.

“I did not have time to visit Colston before my return to home in Brisbane, Queensland, but did mention to him the existence of a model IHC baler similar to the 1A. “It was made by a friend of mine, Les Brown of Riverton, and has been for a number of years

World War II, using whatever materials were available at the time.

Unlike more modern hay balers, it wasn’t towed around the paddock, attached to a tractor.

Instead hay is bought to the machine, which is driven by a belt-drive from a tractor or stationary engine. Piles of hay are forked into the machine, which has a large arm moving up and down to compress the hay as it moves through the chamber.

Thanks to inquiries he’s received following the Coast & Country News story, Colston’s baler is to be in action at the up-coming Oropi School Gala and the Rotorua A&P Show.

“It’s great to have the baler in action and people love to watch it,” says Colston.

Elaine Fisher

Page 50

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Engineering Taupo LTD

Coast & Country News July 2016

FIELDAYS FOLLOWUP

Page 51

Clothing for long, short and safe The Circle M philosophy of ‘we make what people need’ extends to its custom-making service.

Circle M owner Terry Marshall says with more than 30 years in the business they are proud of their New Zealand-made quality garments.

Custom-made

Circle M is able to combine hi- vis with the oilskin – perfect for the Kiwi outdoors.

“We have a big range of sizes but we can custom-make to your requirements as well. No two people are the same shape; and getting a good fit, which is made to your needs is what Circle M can do for you.

“Just recently we had a guy in who was so tall and skinny he needed really long leggings and he had arms to match, so we were able to custom-make to his specific build.

“The same goes for those vertically challenged with a good girth – we can make for all of them,” says Terry.

Designed, created, tested and manufactured in Otorohanga using only the finest fabric available makes the Circle M range perfect for the New Zealand conditions.

“We have a wide range of farming and hunting clothing specialising in the needs for the outdoor work and recreation lifestyle.”

Hi-vis too Circle M has a specialised range of safety clothing and has designed a unique way of overlaying hi-vis over the oilskin to make it warm, dry while being safe and seen.

“Hi-vis is vital. Everybody has to be seen and to be able to combine hi- vis with the oilskin makes it perfect for the Kiwi outdoors.

Understanding market benefits farmers Recently, I had the occasion to participate at a MYOB Fieldays function which led me to reflect on the value of data for farmers and the insights it can provide.

Initially, when gathering this information, data points will be limited, but during time trends will emerge which will drive both on-farm management decisions and enable farmers to engage

insights, consumer trends and value chain opportunities and threats shouldn’t just be the purview of the marketers.

Preferences

I understand there are only so many hours in the day, but your on-farm asset value depends on effective supply chain response to those trends, and consumer reactions and preferences.

Chase different in-market perspectives; if you can get over to the countries we export to, plan a trip and meet importers, distributors, retail customers and consumers.

I have always found it interesting how farmers will be quite probing of the various commercial options that exist around their on-farm decisions, but at times almost blasé towards testing the curWalking through a cloud – the innovative MYOB rent thinking around stand with its ‘cloud’ doorway fascinated Fieldays’ in-market opportunities and commercial response. visitors.

There is real value in deeply understanding a farm’s complete ecosystem. Farmers have always had access to hard data around their profit and loss; and increasingly the various farm inputs and impacts on productivity and profitability.

But the future is in developing a broader understanding of the whole farm ecosystem and how the various components interact with each other such as water quality, soil performance, flora and fauna.

Trends emerge

proactively with local government regulators.

There is more that we don’t know than we do at an individual farm level – the more you build the picture of your farm, the stronger your insights and negotiating position will be.

Insights shouldn’t stop at the farm gate. Developing and accessing market

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In my view, the closer the farmer gets to the consumer the better.

“Once our customers see this product they know it is the perfect solution for their work – and play – environment.”

FIELDAYS FOLLOWUP

Page 52

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Going deep provides solution for a difficult site A difficult site and a Waikato farmer’s very specific requirements has led Presco Environmental Infrastructure to add an even deeper option for its concrete Prosump effluent holding ponds, says general manager Oliver Prestidge.

“We had a request from the farmer in the Waikato, who wanted to build a pond in the side of a hill, on a site where he could gravity-feed effluent from the dairy.

Prosump’s durable and efficient design plus its appearance are among the “He had large storage reasons farmers are choosing this system for effluent storage. requirements, but space was very tight. We had been overwhelmingly positive with a lot of famers liking the developing the deeper pond option for a while, but potential savings that come with the 3.6m Prosump this really pushed us to get it off the ground.”

Oliver says the client came to Presco after researching and wanting to “do it once and do it right” when it comes to effluent storage. and exhausting all other possible options for the site Prosumps can be constructed to any size or capacand size of storage pond he required. ity to meet a clients need, from 58,000 litres to “No other systems suited his specific needs. The Pro8,000,000-plus litres. sump’s durable and efficient design really appealed, so “Each design is client specific and based on visits to he approached us to see what we could do. Although the farm to look at the site options, assess soil types the original 3m Prosump wouldn’t fit, the 3.6m Proand discuss with the client the requirements of their sump was perfect.” farm now and also any plans for the future,” says The site has been excavated so part of the Prosump Oliver. is beneath ground level. Its extra depth also means less catchment area and more efficiency in irrigating the Attractive appearance effluent onto pasture.

“Many of our clients have thoroughly researched the In meeting this client’s needs, Presco designed and options before deciding on a Prosump and as well as produced deeper side panels meaning other farmers the long life time and efficient design of the ponds, who install Prosumps can now increase their storage, their appearance is also a factor in deciding to install without the need for a bigger site or pond. one. Our farmers say they like the look of their Prosump which fits into the landscape well.”

Fieldays innovation The company developed the Prosump to give an The 3.6m Prosump was included in the innovation option to conventional lined effluent ponds which awards at this year’s Fieldays. Although it didn’t get a were not working well in locations with high water podium finish, Oliver says the response was tables.

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FIELDAYS FOLLOWUP

Page 53

Golden link for effluent system “The system can be used to separate solids from liquids in dairy farm and pig farm effluent, from truck wash wastewater and more.”

The separation process has minimal moving parts which provides reliability, low maintenance and low running costs, and the Rainer Irrigation system can be retrofitted to manager Gavin Briggs an existing effluent system. says effluent solids In the first stage of the might not be as valuable process, a stirrer mixes raw as gold, but farmers effluent in a sump or saucer can achieve significant and a heavy-duty pump financial savings by delivers it to the Vibra extracting it from water Screen, which as its name with the company’s implies, vibrates, allowing Effluent Vibra Screen. the liquid to pass through “Taking out the solids the screen while solids are to be composted or collected and dehydrate as spread on pasture leaves they fall off the screen to a separated liquids to drainage pad. be used for washdown Rainer Irrigation manager Gavin Briggs with the The end result are two of yards or in existing Rainer Effluent Vibra Screen at the Fieldays. nutrient-rich products, irrigation systems, with liquid for irrigation, and The system was on show at the less risk of blockages.” solids – which Gavin says can be The Rainer Effluent Vibra Screen Fieldays where ‘artificial effluspread on cropping paddocks or ent’ was fed continuously over has been three years in developbecome even more valuable for the screen to demonstrate how it ment, including two years of works. pasture if left to compost. on-farm testing. “We wanted to be

A system used to separate gold from gravel has been adapted to extract solids from dairy effluent by Rainer Irrigation Ltd of Ashburton.

sure of its efficiency and reliability before going out to market,” says Gavin.

“We now have four up and running with another three going in for the coming season; and one of these is a second order for a client for his second farm.”

Visit our website for more on how the

Pollination machine wins top award David says conservative estimates are that using the machine could increase kiwifruit production by $10,000 per hectare. “In reality, the potential increase is probably much more than that,” says David.

Pollination quality is directly linked to fruit size and quality and increasing fruit weight by just one gram could raise Orchard Gate The company has previReturns by $800 for green ously won two National Hayward kiwifruit and almost Fieldays’ Innovation double the OGR for the gold G3 awards for The Wrangler. according to Zespri.

And this year PollenSmart “We have found that multiple – a machine designed to applications at a lighter rate have dispense pollen to increase had the best results, and also yields, reduce costs, and those pollinated at the optimal optimise timing – won time of day. A big advantage in the BOP company the owning a PollenSmart is we can Innovations Launch NZ use it how and when we like to Award.

Waverley Klein Ovink and David Horwood get the advantage of the best The Wrangler invenwith latest award-winning innovation from conditions,” says David. tor Wilco Klein Ovink The Wrangler, the PollenSmart machine David says it is really noticeable worked on the Polduring its first public outing at the Fieldays. the Psa-V compromised areas lenSmart’s design, testing in their orchard did so much better with PollenSmart it extensively since 2015 on the kiwifruit orchard than even areas with perfect pollination, because it did owned by David and Wendy Horwood at Kutarere, not use pollen from those male flowers but top quality before its commercial launch at Fieldays. pollen.

As well as the Horwood orchard, PollenSmart was “By boosting pollination efficiency growers should used in three orchards this season in a trial using methbe able to use less pollen; and the greater the amount odology recommended by Zespri that compared areas pollinated with bees, conventional artificial pollination of pollen on each flower, the bigger and better the fruit should be,” says Wilco. and PollenSmart.

“With better pollination you also get fewer mis“Both the quantity and quality of the fruit from shapen fruit; and each kiwifruit is likely to be bigger PollenSmart-pollinated areas is much larger and more prolific than those pollinated by the other methods,” and to have a higher dry matter content than those not says Waverley Klein Ovink. perfectly pollinated.”

A system to safely secure cows for their pedicures and a machine to artificially pollinate kiwifruit flowers would seem to have little in common – except both are award-winning inventions from the Whakatane company The Wrangler.

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Page 54

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Remote effluent control from anywhere Reid & Harrison, the Matamata company renowned for the design and production of heavy duty, reliable Yardmaster pumps, has joined forces with the innovative IT company Tag I.T Technologies to provide farmers with a stateof-the-art system to monitor farm effluent from pond storage to irrigation from almost anywhere in the world.

The two companies launched Yardmaster HALO at the Fieldays, after extensive trials which Keith Cooke of Reid & Harrison says proved the efficiency and value of the system.

COSIO COSIO

“Not only do we share a common focus on our customers but we are also combining our individual strengths to deliver an even better service for farmers.”

Through the secure HALO dashboard, which is accessible from any web-enabled device anywhere in the world, farmers can access real-time information on effluent pond storage and the operation and position of irrigators on their property.

Tag I.T Technologies technical development manager Russell Gibbs explains how the HALO system works to a farmer on the Yardmaster site at Fieldays.

This is the first time Reid & Harrison has combined with an IT company and it’s a partnership which is working really well, says Keith.

Information provided

“Using the dashboard, farmers can remotely start up or shut down effluent pumps and irrigators, based on the information the system provides including pond levels, soil moisture levels and weather conditions.”

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As compliance requirements develop the Supersmart technology, which has unlimited cloud-based storage, means all of a farm’s effluent data is ready to be shared directly with regional councils if needed.

Tag I.T began work on HALO product development in 2001 and have more than 180 systems live on farms throughout New Zealand, helping farmers, both sole operators and multi-unit businesses, to run more efficient operations.

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Keith says farmers who saw the Yardmaster HALO at Fieldays were impressed by the system, which gives not only increased control over effluent storage and irrigation but also stores vital data for future reference.

“Farmers liked the fact they can access information and have control over so many aspects of their farm operation from one dashboard without the need of several different systems.”

The Yardmaster HALO SUPERSMART Monitoring and Control platform can be tailored to match the requirements of each farm and farmers can choose from a range of additional options.

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Coast & Country News July 2016

FIELDAYS FOLLOWUP

Page 55

Turning effluent into drinkable water A sophisticated water filtration plant that turns dairy shed effluent into clean, clear water is to undergo extensive independent testing when FORSI Innovations installs a plant on a Palmerston North dairy farm in July.

FORSI’s Head Filtration Engineer Darren Hawes at the entrance to the customised container in which the company’s high tech water filtration system is installed.

The high tech filtration system, which was on display at Fieldays, fits inside a customised 40ft container. The system is fully automated and every aspect of its operation and output is closely scrutinised by various sensors and meters.

“We are so confident in the quality of water our system produces that we have drunk it ourselves,” says FORSI’s head filtration engineer Darren Hawes.

The company is the brainchild of Terry Hawes, who runs it with his sons Darren and Craig – and the dairy effluent system is the result of seven years’ extensive and continual research and development.

“This system is able to process 3000 litres of water an hour,” says Darren.

The process begins with effluent passing over FORSI’s specifically designed screen and sediment removal equipment, which removes the larger suspended solids before the liquid is captured into a “blending” tank.

From here the liquid is pumped into the customised container, which houses the filter where a patented infusion process takes place. Organic polymers are added to capture nutrients and polishing filtration finishes the process to create the high quality clean water.

“The end result is clean, clear water which can be used for irrigation, re-used for dairy shed washdown or even stock water,” says Darren.

“This water is free from odours, pathogens, total suspended and dissolved solids, and total nitrogen and phosphorous.”

FORSI is working to have the system compliant so water processed by its filtration plant can be discharged

direct to the waterways if needed, without the risk of prosecution.

Installing a FORSI dairy effluent filtration system is significantly cheaper than building large effluent holding ponds, says Darren, and treating the water to such a high standard reduces environmental impacts.

The solids and nutrients removed can be composted and used as a fertiliser, says Darren.

“We know of no other filtration system that can take the washdown water directly from the cowshed yard and process for reuse to this high standard.”

Page 56

FIELDAYS FOLLOWUP

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Recognised for excellence in education

New Plymouth Girls’ High School is a school which ensures the young women entering its gates receive an education that enhances learning and is responsive to individual needs, says principal Jenny Ellis.

“Traditional values encourage respect, responsibility and positive relationships.

“The school offers a unique opportunity to be educated at one of New Zealand’s oldest, most prestigious state girls’ schools committed to the education of young women.”

New Plymouth Girls’ High School has shaped and influenced the lives of young women since 1885 and is recognised both nationally and beyond New Zealand for providing excellent education.

“With a history going back to 1885 the school is based on traditional values with innovative approaches to teaching and learning, supported by modern information communication technology.”

Scotlands, the school hostel, offers quality residential accommodation for up to 150 students in a supportive living and learning environment.

“It provides a caring and supportive environment where students are encouraged to do well academically and participate fully in the sporting, cultural and social life of the school.”

Students are housed in five-bed modern motel-type units with each student having her own private space.

Because the hostel is in the school grounds, boarders have access to all school amenities.

The hostel is the ‘heart’ of the school and thrives on teamwork and many friendships are made among the students of all nationalities.

At the hostel fully qualified teachers and tutors are available at prep time, four nights a week.

These teachers help to prepare Year 9-10 students for NCEA with formative NCEA study.

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Enhancing learning and responding to individual needs is a hallmark of education at New Plymouth Girls’ High School.

Features of life at Scotlands: y Fee guarantee. Hostel fees are assured for the time your daughter is enrolled. A family guarantee also applies. y Warm, caring and secure environment. y Full access to school grounds and facilities. y Housing 150 boarders - Years 9 to 13. y Excellent staff-student ratio - active 24-hour care. y Homework supervised by a trained teacher. Tuition in time-management and study skills that contributes towards excellent academic results. y Active and supportive extra-curricular programme. y High expectations of courtesy and acceptable behavior. y Leadership opportunities and training. y Increased independence encouraged at all levels. y Boarders make a notable cultural, academic, social, sporting and leadership contribution to the life of the school. y The independence, maturity and lifelong friendships that boarding encourages are excellent foundations for adult life.

The school has a proud tradition of academic excellence and a proven record of outstanding achievement. “Our students consistently achieve above the national average in national qualifications. Our multi-level learning and accelerate programme that enabled 57 students to achieve a National Certificate in Educational Achievement at a level above their school year-level.“I invite you to join with us on the next phase of your educational journey by making New Plymouth Girls’ High School your first choice in secondary education.”

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FIELDAYS FOLLOWUP

Coast & Country News July 2016

Page 57

Stan’s external skeleton takes the weight

‘Bootful’ Fieldays footwear

Stan Brough is the man with an external skeleton – one he can strap on or off at will – with the aim of easing back strain.

They were stripey, cute, brightly-coloured, short, tall or very dirty – there was even at least one pair of shiny gold ones.

As always, the gumboot was the footwear of choice at Fieldays this year.

Boots were sported by toddlers almost too small to walk – by stylishly-dressed women – and of course by blokes, who turned up wearing the same boots they’d had on in the dairy shed that morning.

Modern Mystery Creek Fieldays are a far-cry from the early days when wet and mud-proof footwear was definitely required. Today, the streets are well surfaced and puddles are few. But hey – it’s a rural event so why not wear your brightest and best gummies?

Elaine Fisher

“I got the idea from the fact that when your back is sore, one of the best ways to ease the pain is to lean forward and take the weight on your elbows, resting just above your knees,” says Stan from Invercargill.

So he set about designing and constructing a harness that transfers body weight to the upper thighs while leaving the wearer free to move around unimpeded.

Stan demonstrated his Lumbar-eez – with patent pending – at the Fieldays’ innovation

area, attracting a good deal of attention from the public.

“When I’m bent over like this, I’m completely supported by the harness,” says Stan, who spent much of the four-day event strapped in and leaning forward to demonstrate how his Lumbar-eez works.

It’s not the first body support system Stan has invented.

One of the popular slings used by many shearers to support their bodies is his invention too.

“I could see there was need for a similar support system, which would leave the wearer completely mobile.”

The latest harness uses wire rope, a spring system and hinge to automatically adjust to whatever position the wearer is in – up right or bent over.

It needs some minor refinements but Stan is Stan Brough demonstrates pleased at how effective how his Lumbar-eez invention the prototype is at taking transfers body weight to the the weight off his back. knees, helping ease back pain.

Elaine Fisher

Page 58

FIELDAYS FOLLOWUP

July 2016 Coast & Country News

Removing guesswork from condition scoring An automatic system that takes the guesswork out of Body Condition Scoring was launched by DeLaval and LIC at Fieldays.

DeLaval business development director Ken Ward says the system created a lot of interest among farmers at Fieldays because it automatically and accurately records the Body Condition Score of every animal in the herd, providing valuable information on which to make decisions.

Fully automated

The system is the result of collaboration between the two companies and combines DeLaval’s BCS Camera system with LIC Automation’s technology and knowledge of the NZ herd characteristics.

DeLaval Oceania regional president Andrew Pooch says it eliminates commercial barriers DeLaval business development director Ken Ward, with “and will provide all New Zealand dairy farmthe automated Body Condition Scoring measurement ers with the opportunity for body condition system for NZ-bred dairy cows on display at Fieldays. scoring to be fully automated, eliminating the guesswork and labour hours associated with a is critical in providing the best solutions possible to manual system”. farmers that increases productivity and prosperity on “This approach also complements our combined farm. knowledge for the development and continued validation of this new automatic system.

Granular data “This could not be more timely with the new “Automating the Body Condition Scoring process Animal Evaluation Process in place in New Zealand will deliver greater consistency and more granular since February 2016, which now includes BCS as a data to farmers to assist in their decision-making and new trait in Breeding Worth,” says Andrew. management of their herd to optimise their business,” says Paul.

Best solutions The DeLaval BCS is the world’s first automated LIC Automation is the wholly owned subsidiary of Body Condition Scoring system. The technology is dairy farmer-owned co-operative LIC, which provide based on a 3D camera and once a cow passes under a range of services and solutions to New Zealand the camera the system recognises the movement and dairy farmers including dairy genetics and informaselects the best still image of the cow in the video tion. sequence. The image is converted into an accurate LIC Automation CEO Paul Whiston says colBSC and can be accessed via DeLaval’s herd manlaboration in innovative technology between agement system DelPro or LIC’s herd management organisations such as DeLaval and LIC Automation system MINDA.

Coast & Country News July 2016

FIELDAYS FOLLOWUP

‘Easy-care cows’ off to World Expo A small herd of 12 New Zealand dairy cows will be among the exhibits at the 50th World Dairy Expo in Madison Wisconsin in October – but even though they will be ‘milked’ they won’t need feeding or grooming.

That’s because the full-size Jersey-look-alikes are wooden, prefabricated cows, used by Waikato Milking Systems to demonstrate their milking parlour technology.

The cows, and a ‘herd’ of 20 wooden goats, were among the star attractions on the company’s stand at the Mystery Creek Fieldays where even children were encouraged to try putting cups on the cows.

Among them was 10-year-old Keaton Hester, who was fascinated by the cows and the milking system explained to him by Waikato Milking Systems Otago/ Southland sales manager Diego Brandoa Diego Brandoa.

Keaton says he doesn’t want to be a farmer, but instead an engineer, perhaps involved in designing and building systems to make farming more efficient.

It’s not the first time Waikato Milking Systems has used it’s model cows, made of marine plywood, on its stands; in the past a herd of ‘Friesians’ has been sent to China.

The World Dairy Expo, which began in 1967, is billed as “a forum for dairy producers, companies, organisations and other dairy enthusiasts to come together to compete, and to exchange ideas, knowledge, technology and commerce” and is on October 4-8 this year.

Elaine Fisher

Made of marine plywood, these prefabricated Jersey cows are definitely ‘easy care’.

Wooden goats on the Waikato Milking Systems stand at Fieldays are used to demonstration Waikato Milking System’s dairy technology.

Waikato Milking Systems Otago/ Southland sales manager Diego Brandoa helps 10-year-old Keaton Hester fit cups to a wooden cow at Fieldays.

Page 59

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July 2016 Coast & Country News

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Coast & Country News July 2016

FIELDAYS FOLLOWUP

Dairy leadership recognised Guild of Agricultural Journalists and Communicators, and recognises excellence in communicating agricultural issues, events or information.

Regarded as the premier award for agricultural communicators, it’s also the most valuable prize the Guild Tim says he’s overawed and humbled to receive the offers. Landcorp provides a prize of $2500 for the award, and pledged the $2500 prize money to the winner, which this year is part of a Rural Support Trust which assists funding package of nearly $6000 farmers facing tough times. in sponsorship for the Guild. The In his time as DairyNZ CEO, additional funding assists with Tim’s excellence as a communicaadministration costs, including the tor has enabled him to provide an awards function. extraordinary level of leadership Guild president Ali Spencer for the dairy sector. expressed the guild’s grateful thanks This has been particularly to Landcorp for its support and evident during the last 12 months involvement in this award for 30 when the industry has faced a years. “It is a remarkable relationdifficult period in the media ship to have survived this long.” with low milk prices, issues with Ali says Tim is held in very high animal welfare and environmental regard among farmers around the standards.

Landcorp Board chair Traci country.

He’s spoken out, challenged Houpapa and DairyNZ chief “Tim speaks out on matters opinions and most importantly, executive Dr Tim Mackle. concerning legislation, on-farm used his position to educate and practice, farmer capability and change views of the sector. economics. He stands out in an industry with many His has been a prevailing voice for his industry and spokespeople, his communication is meaningful, prohe’s regularly featured on television news and in daily viding advice and empathy to those being challenged regional and national publications. by tough economic times.

Tim’s reach has extended beyond rural publications “In the last year he successfully defended the to mainstream media, the general public and decisionindustry’s reputation in management of bobbie calves, makers. sparked industry discussion on the pastoral basis of Hailing from farming roots, Tim is able to build dairy farming as an export advantage, has overseen rapport with farmers and relate to their communities. improvement in the industry’s action on water quality, His communications are regular and he’s a visible face and given the public insight to the personal challenges for the industry, giving him mana and prestige as a faced by farmers in tough economic times.” communicator.

Gifting the $2500 prize money that goes with this Tim’s career has taken him through various roles and award to the Rural Support Trust shows Tim’s generoshe continues to look to the next generation, working ity – and it will be put to very good use. The Rural with DairyNZ to increase the number of graduates Support Trust is a charitable organisation that works entering the dairy industry. with people and families in the rural community when This is the 30th year the Landcorp Agricultural times are tough on the farm. This may be through Communicator of the Year title has been awarded, a events – climatic, financial or personal –and the local lengthy period of time for two organisations to maintrusts will help farming families meet and overcome tain such an important relationship. these challenges.

The award is administered by the New Zealand

DairyNZ’s chief executive Dr Tim Mackle is the winner of the 2016 Landcorp Agricultural Communicator of the Year award.

Beams & Timber Direct Ltd (BTD)

Page 61

CLASSIFIEDS

Page 62

July 2016 Coast & Country News

trades & services

To list your rural event please email: julie@thesun.co.nz with Rural Event in the subject heading.

Saturday 2 July

Tree Sale – Hamilton From 9am-noon, Camellia carpark at Hamilton Gardens, gate 2, off Cobham Drive. All

real estate

sorts of trees on offer from macadamia and apples to natives. Cash only. Contact Beryl on 07 829 3272 or 027 695 6229.

Practical Fruit Tree Pruning – Whakamarama From 10am-3pm, 43

runon listings curriculum vitae NEED A C.V.? A C.V. For You can provide you with the professional touch. From scratch or alterations.

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Goodall Rd, Whakamarama, which is 20 minutes from Tauranga, cost $55. Tutor is Gisella Warmenhoven, a professional tree pruner for more than 30 years. Ph 027 240 1305 or see: www. plentypermaculture.co.nz Plant Sale – Hamilton From 10am4pm, outside the information centre, Hamilton Gardens.

Free Home Composting Workshop – Taupo From 3pm-4.30pm, Taupo Community Gardens. Spaces limited so please register: tinyurl. com/gqseptb

Monday 4 July

Bird Identification Through Song and Flight – Coromandel From 7pm, Moon Hair Salon (behind Chai Tea house), Coromandel Township, koha donation.

Thursday 7 July

Local Food Network Community Meeting – Rotorua From 6pm, Kaiwhata Restaurant Waiariki Campus.

Saturday 9 July

2016.

Thursday 14 Sunday 17 July

Waikato Horticultural Society talk on Cacti – Hamilton From 7.30pm, Wintec classroom, Hamilton Gardens, Gate 2, cost $5 for nonmembers. Guest speaker Martin Walker of Coromandel Cacti. Ph Carmel 07 859 0158.

Rose Pruning Demonstration – Matamata From 11am-1pm, Four Seasons Garden Centre, 6 Tainui St, Matamata, free.

Taupo Winter Festival An action packed programme during the July school holidays will be a celebration of the arts, culture and a whole lot of fun! Majority of activities located in and around the Taupo Domain and Great Lake Centre. See: www. taupowinterfestival.co.nz

Saturday 16 July

Fruit & Nut Tree Sale From 10am-12.30pm, A&P Showgrounds, Katikati. Ph Elizabeth: 07 549 2795.

Saturday 23 July

Catalogue Launch at Kings Seeds – Katikati From 10am, 189 Wharawhara Rd, Katikati. Kings Seeds owner Gerard Martin introduces new varieties for

Thursday 28 July

Thursday 30 July

Matariki Festival – Ngaruawahia From 9am-3pm, Jesmond St, Ngaruawahia, free entry. See: matarikiwaikato.nz

Saturday 6 August August 6 Plant Sale – Hamilton From 10am-4pm, outside the information centre, Hamilton Gardens.

Saturday 6 - 13 August

Garden Makeover Course – Hamilton From 9am-3pm, Fraser High School, Hamilton, cost $85. Details: tinyurl.com/j5gxfzq Native Plants and their Medicinal Properties – Hamilton From 9am-1pm, Fraser High School, Hamilton, cost $65. Details at tinyurl.com/ hom22r5

Saturday 6 August

cars wanted WE ALWAYS PAY MORE!

$1000 CASH

NZ Camellia Society Show – Whangarei From 12 noon5pm. For more information visit www.nzcamelliasociety.co.nz

$'9(57,6( 21/,1(

per week

0800 382 828 www .coastandcountrynews .co.nz

(0$,/ RU 3+ kathy@sunmedia.co.nz 07 928 3053

Coast & Country News July 2016

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

Trains revitalise Northland community Rural drivers are used to sharing the road with big machinery like tractors and harvesters – but in Northland there’s a very large, noisy and notto-be-messed which ‘vehicle’ on a main street every Saturday and Sunday.

Bill Fenton

Those are the days when Gabriel the steam train puffs up and down Kawakawa’s main street and all other traffic and pedestrians are wise to give way because it can’t stop – well not easily anyway.

It’s not just the weekends when motorist have to beware, because on Fridays a diesel train, usually ‘Freddie’, is in action.

Both engines, along with another diesel ‘Charlie’, are part of the Bay of Island Vintage Railway Trust, which according to trust chairman Johnson Davis is helping revitalise the small rural community.

“Kawakawa used to be a busy town with plenty of employment through the dairy factory, freezing works and council but over time many of those jobs have gone.”

“Now tourism is increasingly important and our railway is very much part of that.”

It’s a railway which runs on steam, diesel and volunteers.

A devastating fire in 1899 is the reason Kawakawa has a railway down its main street. The fire left few buildings standing and reconstruction took place alongside the railway tracks, which were installed in 1877.

The Bay of Islands Vintage Railway was established in the late-1980s to operate a scenic tourist railway between Kawakawa and Opua. At 11.5km, it is one of the longest heritage railway lines in New Zealand, and includes 14

on Gabriel

.

bridges and an 80 metre tunnel.

Only a few years ago, because every bridge still needed to be re-surveyed, trains only ran from the railway station through Kawakawa main street to the first bridge out of town. But thousands of hours of work have seen each bridge certified for use and the track brought up to running standard.

The railway has now reached Taumarere, where a beautiful picnic and barbecue area has been developed.

“We are now working towards our next major goal which is to restore the famous ‘Long Bridge’ which will allow the trains to run on to Opua.”

Elaine Fisher

Page 63

Page 64

COAST & COUNTRY NEWS

July 2016 Coast & Country News

This concept book for kids is all about unleashing creativity, thinking outside the square and opening the mind to possibility.

Part picture book, part artistic inspiration, ‘What Could It Be?’ is an interactive adventure for pre-primary and primary

O U NT R

FU

N NIE

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The winning captions were: “Comfy carriage come midnight” from Linda McCready of Te Puke; “Even Steven Adams would be ‘pumped’ to net this basket” from Betty White, of Otorohanga, and “That darn cuckoo has beaten us again” from T Bailey of Te Awamutu.

Caption this month’s pig picture and be in to win the book ‘What Could It Be? Exploring the Imaginative World of Shapes’ by Sally Fawcett, published by Exisle.

school-aged children organised into paired double-page spreads.

The first spread in each pair introduces a basic geometric shape – square, circle, triangle, etc – and then opens the door for creative thinking by posing the question: ‘What else could it be?’

The following spread provides the answer, with the focus on shape transformed into many objects in a glorious artwork.

Y

The stunning front page photo of in Queenstown last year. hunters Tony Newth of Auckland, In the same category, Coast & Blair Anderson of Tauranga and Dave Country News editor and phoBarrett of Whakatane with peacocks tographer Elaine Fisher received they had culled from farmland, won special mention from the judges, who photographer Tracy Hardy and Coast commented on her “well composed & Country News the photos with some fill Best Front Page in the in flash” and that it “...worthy of praise Associate Category is “good that some for the sheer volume of the 2016 New subjects aren’t and diversity of stories, looking directly Zealand Community Newspaper Awards. the camera”. written with knowledge atCoast The photo, which & Country and understanding.” appeared on the cover was the Best All of the Coast & CounRound Newspaper try News August associate category and 2015 edition, was received the followwell composed, with ing comment from vivid colours and an judges: unusual choice of “A publication subject. Tracy, who is worthy of praise for part of the SunMedia the sheer volume photographic team, and diversity of was also runner-up in stories, written with the Best Advertising knowledge and feature or suppleunderstanding”. ment category with Also at the NZ her photography Community Awards for the Life+Style 2016, Life+Style supplement for The received runner-up Weekend Sun publiBest Advertising cation.

Feature or Supplement.

Her colleague Bruce Barnard once The Weekend Sun was a finalist in again snapped the award for Best the Best All-Round Newspaper catFeature Lifestyle Photographer 2015 egory and SunMedia’s highly popular at the Newspaper Awards after winnews website SunLive was runner-up ning the same honour at the awards in the Best Website category.

The pumpkin-in-the-feijoa-tree photo had Coast & Country News readers getting creative at caption writing – so much so three have won a copy of the book ‘The Heading Dog Who Split in Half ’ published by Potton & Burton.

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Coast & Country News: Slam-dunk – these captions are good your award winning paper

Caption this picture of tiny pig and be in to win a book prize.

To be in to win a copy of ‘What Could It Be?’ email captions for the photo (above), along with your name and address, with Country Funnies as the subject, to: elaine@thesun.co.nz or put these details on the back of an envelope and post to: Country Funnies, PO Box 240, Tauranga 3140. Entries need to arrive by July 26. Winners will be announced in the September issue of Coast & Country News.