Guardian Farming - April 2016

Farming GUARDIAN

APRIL, 2016

Bringing the New Zealand story to life NZ BRAND INC - WHY NOW IS THE TIME TO TELL OUR STORY

House of Hearing

100% NZ Owned & Operated

CLINIC Ashburton Blenheim Halswell Fendalton Papanui Rangiora Greymouth Hokitika Westport

PHONE 03 307 8949 03 579 5353 03 322 4326 03 351 3535 03 310 7355 03 768 5528

2

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

WIN WIN WIN

COMMENT FROM EDITOR This month win An Era Gone

by Dave Ratcliffe – a firstperson account of the changing face of the venison industry.

Just answer the following question and either post it to Ashburton Guardian, PO Box 77, Ashburton or email to Nadine.P@theguardian.co.nz Who is the New Zealand Trade Minister?

Congratulations to last month’s winner: Jennifer Bateman

CONTACTS We appreciate your feedback.

Editor Email your comments to nadine.p@theguardian. co.nz or phone 03 307 7957.

Advertising Email deidre.n@ theguardian.co.nz or phone 03 307 7927.

Post Ashburton Guardian, PO Box 77, Ashburton.

Your friendly Guardian Farming team.

Bigger

There seems to be in our sight. be a willingness A combined within the red meat brand that implies industry to look at security and value a combined New and can overarch Zealand brand. all industries might This is something seem impossible but that we have I’m a great believer Nadine RURAL all talked about in Mandela’s saying Porter EDITOR for what seems that everything Tweet us @farmjourno like forever, but seems impossible the changing until it is done. environment we find ourselves in We have to leverage our landscape, may very well lead to action. our people, our systems and our But as Beef and Lamb NZ values and instill them into one chairman James Parson says, it’s not simple label that encapsulates it. quite as simple as it might seem.

If it sounds tough that’s because it Gathering all industries together is, but that doesn’t mean we should to collectively promote our story in accept incremental steps in the conjunction with a brand is similar journey such as what we expect Beef to a mirage in the and Lamb NZ to desert, particularly announce soon. with Tourism New As farmers we As farmers we must Zealand’s protective embrace any zeal over their own must embrace vision for a brand brand. and push for it to be any vision If rumours are incorporated wider. correct we may This will take for a brand soon see a carefully money and courage and push considered innovative and farmers will venture with meat inevitably be asked for it to be processors and to dip into their incorporated farmers where a pockets. At a difficult combined branding time across our wider strategy and story is industries, this may put in place. be a challenging If this is true we concept, but it is should all applaud those that have always at the most challenging times had the foresight and will to put in our lives that we find the greatest this together because although it success. might only cover one or two primary This period will define our farming industries, it is an integral first step futures for generations to come. in a journey we must take.

Let’s hope we are up for the The end goal however, must always challenge.

“

showroom, range of products

Palmer Agriparts Ltd has extended their shop making your replacement partssourcing experience easier.

new Come instore to see our

showroom!

More than 8,000 parts in stock including: • Spalding UK parts • Bare-Co products • In-house, manufactured quality parts

0800 4 PALMERS - 0800 472 563 - www.palmeragriparts.co.nz 34 Robinson St, Riverside Industrial Park, Ashburton *Palmer Agri Parts Direct imports and manufactures quality parts that fit machines indicated. These parts are not sold as genuine parts.

www.guardianonline.co.nz

3

BRINGING THE NZ STORY TO LIFE

Time to tell our story?

Ireland’s Origin Green sustainable brand is the first of its type worldwide and is turning heads everywhere including in the supermarket aisles.

So where is New Zealand with its story and brand? Have we been complacent? And will we get to a point where one brand encompasses all primary industries?

Rural Editor Nadine Porter investigates.

Right - Branding guru Rob Achten says there must be urgency around a NZ brand

In a far-flung outpost of South East At the fresh meat counter she takes Asia sits a wealthy man, eating dinner time to browse. There’s a plethora of with his wife. Young, educated and cuts and labels to choose from, but ambitious they are among one catches her eye … it has a picture the nouveaou riche of a distant country behind the tray - the type that and uses evocative words that make likes to splurge her feel good that the cut she’s going Nadine RURAL a little. Showy to buy comes from a beast grazed on Porter EDITOR and impressed panoramic open land and was treated Tweet us @farmjourno with the finer well. things in life, She doesn’t stop to look at the price they like to – instead she instructs the impatient flaunt their wealth. server to carefully package two pieces of the Australian Earlier that afternoon the rump steak, oblivious to the New Zealand grass-fed wife went grocery shopping better tasting fillet beside it that just has a simple price in an exclusively high priced and in small print the abbreviation NZ. urban supermarket.

But she’s already bought the Aussie story, bought It’s not the kind of place brand Ocker and in doing so shut out the values of Joe Bloggs could afford but it’s what we are doing on farm, the story of our land simply exactly the type of place she because she didn’t get the chance to see it. wants to be seen in among Around the world that battle of the brand and its the brands that ooze underlying story is taking place on every supermarket success. shelf and chiller world-wide. It’s a fight to the top and He asked for one some commentators believe we are not actively part steak. She knows of. it’s expensive but Others say we’ve become complacent … reliant on he’s acquired a Tourism New Zealand and its 100 per cent pure slogans taste for it on his but while our marketing know-how sleeps, our primary many overseas industry risks getting burnt. trips. continued P4

YOUR FODDER BEET HARVESTING SPECIALIST

Call the team to tend to all your rural electrical needs

Jacob Holdaway Contracting Ltd • Efficient, clean harvesting • Capable of harvesting various row widths • Grimme Harvester is well suited to Canterbury conditions

CALL ME NOW

Jacob Holdaway 0274 225 464 www.jholdawaycontracting.com

Kieran

ElectraServe . . . for everything electrical

24/7 Breakdown Service Dairy Effluent Irrigation Generators

Industrial Commercial Residential

Elliot

Mitch the ElectraServe guarantee

Blair Watson, General Manager personally guarantees ElectraServe’s tradesmen’s workmanship.

If you are not 100% satisfied with the quality of the work, ElectraServe will put it right . . . every time, or your money back.

a 166 moore street ashburton p 03 308 9008 e service@electraserve.co.nz w www.electraserve.co.nz

COCHRANES

your farm machinery specialist

Farming

2 4

www.guardianonline.co.nz

BRINGING THE NZ STORY TO LIFE

Ireland’s Origin Green sustainability label is world- leading.

from P3 And yet it’s not through a lack of discussion. NZ brand Inc. is as overused in marketing lingo as ‘disruptive’ but with little to back the idea up.

The idea is sound – a combined story of our land coupled with brand New Zealand, available to all. So why haven’t we collectively been able to achieve it?

And what is it costing us to procrastinate?

Branding guru Rob Achten believes there must be urgency around creating an underlying New Zealand brand.

The former creative director

for Icebreaker and Wellington design agency Origin Design spends his days developing brands for Kiwi companies and is in favour of having a common platform to leverage from.

His reasoning comes from personal experience. New Zealand, he says, is a tiny country, and building a brand on the world stage is tough work.

“I’m in favour of doing it collectively rather than individual efforts and I think there’s a whole bunch of common attributes and strong brand values that companies could leverage – it’s very hard

to do it on your own.”

And he knows just how hard it is to get everyone working on the same page.

New Zealand businesses are protective of their patch, seeing each other as competition rather than looking outside our shores.

“What is the actual true competition? In most cases I don’t see that as another New Zealand company … quite often if you think that way you just end up driving prices down. I think we have to ask the question, who are we targeting and who is our true competitor?”

The common mind-set

among some primary sectors is much like gang warfare with each gang protective of their patches. Making that step to find a common brand is fraught with difficulties – something Rob is all too aware of.

“It’s not going to be easy, but I still think it’s the right thing to do.”

Rob sees strength in the red meat sector collectively promoting the intrinsic values of New Zealand farming systems while still retaining singular strategies.

“I think there’s still a place for individual brands but there’s an opportunity to

build a platform underneath all of that incorporating what’s good about our farming including animal welfare and the environment. I don’t see it as one or the other.”

And that may well be the key.

Companies that have invested cash and time into promoting their brand will be reluctant to abolish what they’ve started, particularly if they have farmer shareholders to answer to. Retaining that brand but promoting under one common New Zealand story may well be the clincher to working it out. continued P5

PMR GRAIN SYSTEMS

CROP STORAGE AND HANDLING SYSTEMS

AVAILABLE SOUTH ISLAND WIDE TIMBER DRIVE-OVER DRYING FLOORS Also air tunnels, fans and heaters etc all sizes suitable for all crops.

‘And much more from the company that understands meal feeding.’

• • • • • • • • • •

Rotary & Herringbone & Robotic Sheds Feed Systems Molasses Systems PKE & Pellet Systems Silos Augers Mills – New Generation Mineral Dispensers Dust Kits Air Fluidizer Kits

Contact STEVE WATERS 027 640 1333 EMAIL steve@permbrand.co.nz

www.permbrand.co.nz

MOBILE GRAIN DRIER 10 to 40 tonne batch

Dairy Feed and Crop Storage Specialists

5 HP FANS TO 50 HP FANS

CROP DRYING FANS & CONSTANT HUMIDITY GAS BURNERS

Dairy Feed and Crop Storage Specialists

Tel: 03 303 7266 Mobile: 0275 146 609 | Email: dave@pmr.co.nz Mobile 0274 151 390 | Email: paul@pmr.co.nz Web: www.pmr.co.nz

www.guardianonline.co.nz

5

BRINGING THE NZ STORY TO LIFE from P4 But for Rob, there’s a deep sense of frustration.

He believes we have been complacent, assuming what was successful twenty years ago will continue to work into the future.

He’s seen the heady heights of brand success with Icebreaker – a merino wool outdoor apparel range developed by Jeremy Moon.

Icebreaker has successfully linked the New Zealand story to their product. When people try on Icebreaker, they not only love the way it feels, they love the fact that it was made by nature here in New Zealand.

Put simply, they buy our story.

From humble beginnings to today, the Icebreaker apparel system has grown to include underwear, midlayer garments, outerwear, socks and accessories for men, women and kids. You can buy Icebreaker in more than 4700 stores in 50 countries, all with the New Zealand story proud, resolute and out front.

Icebreaker aside, Rob doesn’t believe we’ve done a good job of branding across

our primary industries, particularly around the safety of our food products.

“We are slow to react and I see other countries acting quicker. We have a really good reputation. We are clean, pure and don’t have many diseases or pests. We can’t be complacent because it could easily change so we have to protect the reputation that we’ve got.”

So pressing is the need for a New Zealand brand that Rob

“

We are slow to react and I see other countries acting quicker

believes if we don’t act now, we could go backwards on the world stage.

He may very well have a point when you take into account the work other countries are putting in around their own branding.

Ireland’s food board, Bord Bia, has left the rest of the world in its wake with its forward thinking innovative Origin Green, brand set up in 2012. Recognising the increasing demands from consumers for sustainable • • • • • •

R

A

N

S

P

O

R

Proud to be servicing the farming community in Mid Canterbury

T

L T

We now have an additional 4x4 vehicle offering VARIABLE RATE SPREADING technology.

Call today for more information.

D

Phone 308 4079

www.ruraltransport.co.nz

NO

RM

$16

Modern Spreader Trucks Spreadmark Certified Equipped with GPS Guidance and Mapping 4 Wheel Drive – low ground compaction Single Wheels for Tram Line Spreading Experienced Operators with over 50 years combined service

Call Hamish today to discuss your fertiliser requirements

Locallyowned owned Locally and operated operated and

T

produce amid unparalled growth in food and drink exports, the board did what many thought was impossible.

Providing a structure for Irish farmers and food and drink manufacturers, Origin Green was developed to demonstrate producers’ commitments to sustainably produce the highest quality products. It also provided a framework to deliver long term continuous improvements in key areas such as emissions, energy, waste, water, bio-diversity and social sustainability.

The 95 per cent of food and drink exporters who have signed up to the national brand are independently certified and verified at every stage of production.

At farm level, certification is delivered by utilising Bord Bia’s quality assurance infrastructure that incorporate carbon footprint measurements.

Initially beginning with the Irish beef industry, the quality assurance infrastructure was followed by dairy and is now currently being developed for lamb, poultry, pork and grain. continued P6

ALL Y

.50

ON PER LY $1 PO 2 INT

Sunflower/solford grubber points, bundles of 30

NO

RM

AL $28 LY

NO

$22

W

ea

NO

RM

AL $60 LY

BU Y1 BU $ Y 10 30

M

FRO

0 $75

$20

Twisted grubber points

45-12 HD Maxi till Tines to suit, Hubbard, Hooper and Clough

Feeders - Good stocks available 1.8m and 2.5m. Good stocks.

All prices exclude G.S.T

126 Dobson Street, Ashburton - Phone: 03 308 2059 | Mobile: 0274 326 847 mcmullanent@xtra.co.nz - www.mcmullanenterprises.com

2 6

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

BRINGING THE NZ STORY TO LIFE from P5 At a manufacturing level, companies develop multiannual sustainability plans, setting measurable targets in areas of raw material sourcing, the manufacturing process and social sustainability.

The brand also leverages off Ireland’s dairy farmers, leaving one of the lowest carbon footprints in Europe.

As the first brand of its type worldwide and with 90,000 farms now audited and carbon-footprinted, Origin Green is impressive and, more importantly, it shows such an initiative across industries can be achieved.

And while many would argue the costs of auditing such a scheme are too prohibitive, Rob doesn’t think we have a choice.

“My position is that the biggest demands are going to come out of Asia in terms of growing middle class wealth.

“They are dictating terms and want to trust brands and have systems and compliance behind those brands.

I think we have to be progressive and have all the boxes ticked because that’s the

Icebreaker have leveraged the NZ story well.

standard emerging from that part of the world.”

United States consumers are exhibiting similar trends, with Rob noticing a move towards old-fashioned values.

“There’s a move back to consumers wanting to connect to the source and trust the person that’s actually growing or raising the animals.”

Australians have been particularly savvy on adding value on the back of consumers wanting a more

historical experience when buying their produce.

‘My Cow in Australia’ is one of the latest developments of the Smorgen family who have long been associated with butcher shops throughout the country.

The business allows Chinese consumers to feed and manage their cattle until the beef is finally delivered.

Customers must sign up for three years and agree to take an entire carcase or around

250 kilograms each year.

Costing the consumer around $A14,500 annually, it’s not a cheap option, but that’s not stopping the new middle class in China – proof of just how involved the consumer is prepared to be to ensure what they eat is sustainable and safe.

Back here Rob believes any efforts to build a New Zealand brand must be done in partnership with the Government.

“I think the likes of MPI

need to show a greater degree of leadership or promote an environment of greater collaboration. It’s a partnership between them and industry.”

Farmers too have a huge role to play and have some choices to make, he says.

“I think they should use their influence to demand a greater return for their produce.” continued P7

www.guardianonline.co.nz

7

BRINGING THE NZ STORY TO LIFE from P6 Far North sheep and beef farmer James Parsons has been grappling with an ever decreasing number of sheep farmers, low returns and dissatisfaction among his peers in the red meat industry since he became chairman of levy funded body Beef and Lamb NZ. Right now the organisation is remaining tight-lipped over negotiations it’s having with meat processors over a combined industry brand in an effort to add value to the 13 per cent of sheep and beef exports that make up New Zealand’s total export figures.

Born out of frustration with competing processors, declining value and increased input costs, the results of those negotiations will be taken to farmers in a series of meetings over winter.

But any change will need financing as the current $5.5 million allocated from levies is only enough to maintain markets, according to James.

“Farmers need to invest if they want change.”

James sees industry branding as an important incremental step among many to developing an overall national brand.

Tapping into Tourism New Zealand’s 100 per cent pure brand is often talked about among the food industry but it is protected zealously

by the organisation, he said.

“They don’t want anything tarnishing that brand so they can be a bit precious about it.”

However, he does see value in a strong New Zealand story that gives companies the ability to use it as a springboard – the question is how you go about that.

“That’s the challenge.”

Rumours within industry say Beef and Lamb NZ will find receptive ears among meat processors. One commentator, who didn’t want to be named, believes Alliance Co-operative in particular, would be supportive of marketing collaboration between processors and farmers and are looking to move away from their Pure South brand.

However, Silver Fern Farms has invested much in its Plate to Pasture branding and is less likely to see value in spending money on an underpinning New Zealand story when it is still financially crippled.

For NZ Winegrowers CEO Philip Gregan the question of an overall New Zealand brand is more complex in an export market educated on regional diversity.

Marlborough sauvignon blanc and Central Otago pinot noir transcend national branding as do certain company brands. continued P8

We are the experts in:

Underpasses Laneways Effluent Ponds

Phone Dave Rowlands 027 484 1114 Diesel Workshop direct line: 308 7400

MITRE 10 TRADE

FARM BUILDINGS FARM BUILDINGS DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY TO MEET YOUR NEEDS

CUSTOM DESIGNED CALF SHEDS AVAILABLE NOW!

3 BAY KITS

ET FARM SH

ED

Overhang not included

FREE PLANS WITH ALL SHEDS FULL INSTALLATION SERVICE AVAILABLE WE ORGANISE CONSENTS 0.4 Endura Colorsteel

$6299ex GST

-

3.0-3.6 metre high H5 treated poles High wind load 6.0m deep x 3.6m wide bays Douglas Fir Timber .40 zincalume roof, wall & flashing 0.90 kPa snow load Quality screw fixings

$4999

excl GST

$5,748.85 including GST

$7243.85inc GST

BAN THE BOG AND REDUCE LAMENESS SurePave is a paving system that offers a cost effective, long term solution to the ongoing problem at the high pressure areas on farms. SurePave keeps it’s shape, promotes cow flow, and reduces lameness and muck buildup.

Install SurePave - At the entry or exit to yards.

- At underpass approaches.

- Around troughs.

- On standoff areas.

- On irrigator wheel tracks.

- Or, any other high pressure area that has been costing you in maintenance, lameness, loss of production and general inefficiencies.

While stocks last. Props not included. April 2016.

MITRE 10 MEGA ASHBURTON West Street, Ashburton PHONE 03 308 5119

Gold

Sponsor

Ashburton Contracting Limited

P 03 308 4039 A 48 South Street, Ashburton W www.ashcon.co.nz

MITRE 10 MEGA TIMARU 23 Bank Street, Timaru PHONE 03 687 2033

MITRE 10 OAMARU Corner Cross & Severn Streets, Oamaru Phone 03 434 9860

Farming

2 8

www.guardianonline.co.nz

BRINGING THE NZ STORY TO LIFE from P7 “So for us when we are talking about New Zealand wine and our plans, we go through a three-step process.

First we talk about New Zealand, then New Zealand wine, the regions and lastly individual brands.”

Although individual brands are important, Philip says the New Zealand story is becoming an increasingly important part of marketing.

But he has reservations around establishing an underlying brand and wonders how we would capture benefits from it – and then there’s the costs involved.

He says the 100 per cent pure tourism brand has worked well for the wine industry but collectively the primary sectors could still do better.

Trade Minister Todd McClay says the Government has done work around the New Zealand story including providing a business toolkit for companies looking to exploit our home-grown advantages.

The initiative defines the distinctly Kiwi attributes that make us unique and provides a

“

“New Zealand doesn’t feature very highly on the agendas of most people. We are very small and now in this global food system trying to feed seven and a half billion people … the 40 million we can feed is irrelevant.”

Our size dictates the future will not be about commodities but instead about “the sliver” in people’s diets that makes them aspirational.

In short we need to feed 5 per cent of the diet of 800 million people.

“We are looking for that part of their diet that helps them to say something about who they are and as a consequence that’s the bit they will pay the most for.

“We are just trying to take the premium slice out of their cheque book and leave others to produce the bulk commodities.”

Is that achievable? Well yes, says Ian, but it will take change, not only in our philosophies, but also in our leadership.

“We need very strong, clear, company defining leadership.

“People that are prepared to lead and set the pace of the organisation.”

It’s also got to be about safety, world class innovation, health benefits that are unique and verified KPMG head of agri-business Ian Proudfoot

framework to help businesses better communicate our value to the world.

Underpinning the story are three core values – kaitiaki, integrity and resourcefulness.

Care of people and place, trust, honesty, humility and reciprocal respect are emphasised under those values.

The minister liked the idea of taking that concept further into an over-riding

NZ brand story but believed it was integral for businesses to have choice around what they promote.

KPMG head of agribusiness Ian Proudfoot says the 100 per cent pure New Zealand story remains important, but should be elaborated on.

“Particularly utilising the deep Maori stories is important - but our story has to be more than just

mountains, rivers and lakes.

It’s also got to be about safety, world class innovation, health benefits that are unique and verified.

If you can build all that into a story and if you’ve got a licensing partner to build that brand and invest the capital the potential is great.”

When it comes down to it we simply don’t have the global presence we think we have, he said.

MID-SIZED RANGER FINANCE DEALS

X U L I h W E N tHE ALL NER

N U R E R P 2wd

2016 Hilux

0% P.A. OVER R 24 MON MONTHS NTHS

*MAGS AND ACCESSORIES EXCLUDED

starting FROM only

349

$

*

ALL NEW

LEASE p.m.

• 3.5L • Tiptronic

*Terms and Conditions apply. For full terms and conditions visit our website, www.toyota.co.nz

UPFRONT

• 44,000km

• Similar to picture

ALL NEW

EDDIE EDDIE

SAMANTHA SAMANTHA

2012 Hilux SR5

ANDREW

BRANDI-JEAN

www.ashburton.toyota.co.nz

TERESA

CHRISTCHURCH

Phone 307-5830 - Cnr East St & Walnut Ave, Ashburton www.ashburton.toyota.co.nz

PAM

799 JONES RD, ROLLESTON. 03 349 4883.

STEVE JOHNSON 027 486 7726.

ANDREW Cnr East STEPHEN SAM Avenue, Ashburton.

PAM Street and Walnut Phone 307-5830 anytime. OPEN SAT 9AM – 1PM Richard Burns – 027 486 7546 | Eddie Bakos 027 450 7544

OPEN SAT 9AM-1PM | Richard Burns 027 486 7546 | Eddie Bakos 027 450 7544

IN 24 MONTHS

• Auto • 4WD

www.dne.co.nz 0800 432 633

ALL NEW

1/3

• 71,000km CONTACT DANNY KING FOR GREAT DEALS $14,995 $39,995 ON POLARIS RANGERS!

$36,995

RICHARD RICHARD

TEST ME TODAY IN 12DRIVE MONTHS

• Auto • 79,000km

*Operating Lease offer applies to new Toyota Hilux 2WD PreRunner (GTDFU, GTDTU, GTDFS, GTDTS, GTDTL) leased from an Authorised Toyota Dealer between 1 March 2016 and 30 June 2016, and is subject to stock availability. Offer is based on a 36 month / 45,000 kilometre Non Maintained Operating Lease. Monthly lease amount ex cludes accessories. Offer includes on road costs and initial registration. An initial rental is payable in advance. Offer available to GST registered business customers only, is not transferrable or redeemable for cash, and is not available in conjunction with any other offer. Lease offer is subject to Toyota Financial Services normal lending criteria. For full Terms and Conditions ask your Toyota dealer or visit our website, www.toyota.co.nz

KEVIN KEVIN

1/3

2011 Corolla GX

2012 Highlander

THE ALL NEW

1/3

The All New Hilux 2WD PreRunner range has arrived. If you want a 2WD with 4WD presence and higher ground clearance, it’s now even easier to get behind the wheel of New Zealand’s most iconic truck. Right now you can lease a new Hilux 2WD Prerunner from only $349 per month.* Completely redesigned from the ground up and available in 5 different models, now’s your chance to get the Hilux for work and play. But hurry, this lease offer is available for a limited time. Visit an Authorised Toyota Dealer today.

ASHBURTON

832 EAST ST. 03 307 9911. DANNY KING 027 535 3538.

Subject to credit approval, fees, terms and conditions apply. Based on a 24 month Hire Purchase Contract. To approved Registered GST No Holders for business purposes only on applications for Polaris Ranger ETX and Ranger 570 HD models. Offer expires 31/7/2016.

Polaris Finance is a program operated by De Lage Landen Ltd Company No: 135515.

www.polaris.co.nz |

/PolarisNZZ

www.guardianonline.co.nz

9

LIVESTOCK

Chairman hints at market collaboration The Beef and Lamb NZ chairman recently hinted at a soon to be revealed marketing initiative with meat processors that will be revealed at winter workshops around the country.

Speaking to Radio New Zealand recently, James Parsons outlined Meat Industry Excellence’s failure to garner enough support for the two remits the lobby group sought including funding from B+LNZ as it continues to seek structural reform.

A second remit was for two MIE executive members to replace the processor nominated directors on the B+LNZ board. Both failed with 75 per cent opposition to the first and 76 per cent opposed to the second remit.

At the AGM, Mr Parsons said culture within the industry was important.

“And the culture of our sector needs to be a culture of innovation, a culture of go-forward, a culture of a can-do attitude where we get out there and we take on the world in a positive way in terms of what we do.

“To share a slice of New Zealand in terms of the culture and the values that we instil and the products that we produce as farmers and go and share that with consumers all

STRONG VALUES EXPECTED

Beef and Lamb NZ chairman James Parsons.

over the globe.”

It was important to start speaking to the solution, not the problem, he said.

“If we speak to the problem, what we’re doing is we’re focusing on the problem. If we speak to the solution, we actually focus on the solution.”

WHERE will

U K & E U ROPE T R A V E L EXPO BOOK with

SAY YES TO NEW ADVENTURES AND BOOK E X PO v ONLYx tions | Expo Expert a sp YOUR NEXT HOLIDAY WITH HOUSE OF TRAVEL e cials | Spot dvice direct prizes from the DE

BEST

Come instore | 03

THIS YEAR?

JUMP ONLINE

GET SOCIAL

307 8760 | as House of Tra hburton@hot.c vel Ashburto o.nz n | 03 307 87 ashbur ton@ 60 hot.co.nz facebook.com /HOTAshbur ton

Visit houseoftravel.co.nz for all the latest deals and inspiration. Sign up to get HOT offers sent straight to you inbox.

itions apply. Plea

se ask your House

of Travel consulta

House of Travel Ashburton | 03 307 8760 ashburton@hot.co.nz

We are now providing our clients a

new service Our Blower Truck and Trailer for stock feed, grain & fertiliser is now on the road.

Don’t have an auger then this service is for you.

UK&

v WINNER x

Wednesday of the 2013 best 23 October the 2013 | 7.00p travel retailer Hotel Ashbu m rton | RSVP is essential AFTA AWARD Travel prese nta

YOU GO *Terms and cond

A Christchurch-based stock firm believes the strong values seen in North Island calf sales will be reflected in Canterbury when sales begin.

However, Hazlett Rural general manager Ed Marfell said the expectation of increased values was no consolation to North Canterbury farmers.

“A lot of breeding cows were off-loaded last year because of the drought so those farmers are missing out on the good calf prices they could be getting now.”

Mr Marfell said dairy support farmers had some consolation in beef and wool prices but with the current global situation it was hard to see where the money would come from to support a return to premium prices for high quality child product.

“Possibly, one bright prospect for chilled lamb lies in China.

It’s to be hoped the country’s growing interest in our meat processing and marketing sector could see it shifting to take some premium chilled product which would be an improvement on the frozen only trade that exists at present.”

nt for full details.

airlines and

tour compa

nies

HOT TRAVEL APP

A LS

Ex

The team at HOT AsCo TALK TO USHohbusmuretoinsn tore | 03 307 8760

e of Travel As hburton | 03 ashbur ton@ hot.co.nz facebook.com /HOTAshbu

KeeptoupbetoKIWI date onOWNED AND Booked a holiday with chat tohasonespent over Proud OPERATED, House ofToTravel our latest deals, tips, us already? Use the FREE of our friendly 25competitions YEARS HELPING KIWIS SEE THEofWORLD. With 70 STORES and more House Travel App specialistsNATIONWIDE pop into andthrough OVERFacebook, 700 TRAVEL SPECIALISTS on all hand to pass onourtheir inside knowledge, for access to your store or call us Twitter and Instagram. important travel YOUR docs. DREAM on 03 307 8760.

YOU CAN TRUST US TO PUT TOGETHER HOLIDAY IN 2014. *Terms and cond

itions apply. Plea

se ask your House

of Travel cons

2 10

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

LIVESTOCK

Not enough stock to fill contracts While the store lamb market is realistic at present, pressure is expected to come on it and beef prices as more farmers lose dairy grazing contracts and enter the market to utilise their excess feed.

PGG Wrightson Mid Canterbury livestock manager Greg Cook said there was “a lot” of inquiry from farmers wanting to know their options now that most dairy farmers are looking to winter their cows on the platform rather than sending them out to grazing.

Mr Cook said all that was holding the market back at the moment was the dry period being experienced on-farm.

However, he didn’t expect prices to get out of hand and said he thought store lamb prices would only gain around 20 cents per kilogram on what they are at present.

While lambs had been fetching $2.20 to $2.40 per kilogram a fortnight ago, the dry conditions had decreased the price by up to 20 cents.

Beef cattle prices had been “absurdly dear” he said, as a flush of grass growth coupled with dairy grazers panicking following the loss of contracts.

“But now they’ve come back 30 to 40 cents per kilogram.”

Good beef steers were now fetching $2.90 to $3 per kilogram, he said.

Federated Farmers Mid Canterbury Meat and Fibre Chairman Michael Salvesen said it was his belief with the dairy herd doubling in the past 15 years and sheep, beef and deer numbers reducing substantially that there wasn’t the stock available to purchase.

“New Zealand is short of stock - full stop. There’s been a sudden correction which has left us short.”

Mr Salvesen said there were limited options for dairy grazers looking to find a fit for the feed they were growing.

VENISON LEVY INCREASES An increase in the levy on venison – the first in a decade – will be needed for Deer Industry NZ to fund its share of the Passion 2 Profit (P2P) initiative and to continue the other work it does for deer farmers and venison marketers. DINZ chair Andy Macfarlane says income from the venison levy is falling at the same

time as expenditure is increasing on P2P, the blueprint for making venison production more profitable. The fall in venison levy income this year will be about $275,000.

“Total deer numbers have been falling for several years, but we are now seeing significant herd retention.

This will reduce slaughter numbers

in the short-term, but will stabilise output in the medium-term.

“Meanwhile we are making a big investment in P2P: $1.1 million last year, $2 million this year and continuing at around $2 million in each of the next five years,” he said.

“To fund this, the DINZ board proposes to increase the levy on

venison by 3 c a kilogram, from 19.69c/kg to 22.69c/kg (including TBFree and NAIT estimates), from 1 September.

“Half the venison levy is paid by farmers and half by processors, so the increase will be 1.5c/kg each.”

Macfarlane says no increase is needed in the velvet levy of 325c/kg.

New

Cattle Fodder Beet Block Palatable, convenient and cost-effective, New Cattle Fodder Beet Block, is a molassesbased supplement to help prevent phosphorus deficiency and balance other minerals lacking in your herds’ diet.

To order today or learn more, phone 0800 287 325 or visit sealeswinslow.co.nz

BAL0025b Fodder Beet Press_Farmers Weekly_FP 390x265.indd 1

29/02/16 12:00 pm

Farming

2 12

www.guardianonline.co.nz

DAIRY

Farmers ‘doing it tough’

DAIRY NZ TO VIST FARMERS

At a recent event in Morrinsville, the Minister of Primary Industries emphasised the wide range of advice and guidance for farmers from Government and wider industry.

Nathan Guy, along with MPI, DairyNZ, Federated Farmers, Rural Support Trusts and the New Zealand Bankers’ Association, launched a new brochure outlining various support available for farmers.

“While the medium to long-term outlook for the sector remains strong, our dairy farmers are doing it tough this season. Low global prices are having a real impact on cashflows and farmers are rightly focusing on their business decisions and on-farm costs.

Mr Guy said as a Government they were supporting the industry with $800,000 in last year’s budget towards the MPI Farming Systems Change programme.

“As part of this around $175,000 has been allocated for an independent provider to do an in-depth study on innovative low cost, high performing farm systems. Last year we also announced $500,000 to support rural mental health. Supporting this is Dairy NZ’s Tactics programme, Farmstrong, and Rural Support Trusts in action around the country.”

Mr Guy said sharemilkers were finding the season very challenging but they were being supported by the $1.5 million SMASH (Smaller Milk and Supply Herds) initiative - Smaller Herd Farmer Businesses which helps dairy farmers, particularly those with smaller operations, to make the best use of their resources.

“Chartered Accountants Australia New Zealand are also offering farmers one hour free consultation for an independent health check of their businesses.”

Left - Minister of Primary Industries Nathan Guy.

DairyNZ is endeavouring to visit all dairy farms nationwide that are not engaged with them over the next two months in an effort to offer support to all farmers suffering in the wake of the dairy downturn.

Regional leader for Canterbury and North Otago Virginia Serra said while many farmers in Canterbury were attending the Dairy NZ events or utilising advice from the levy body, there were still farmers, particularly on newly-converted properties, that didn’t have the knowledge of the advice and support they could receive.

Ms Serra said those farmers were a priority, but DairyNZ staff would also be looking to extend the initiative to all farms longer term.

Visits were yet to officially begin in Mid Canterbury but would start soon, she said.

Despite the tough conditions, Ms Serra said generally farmers attending DairyNZ activities had been positive.

In North Canterbury, where forecast el nino dry conditions didn’t eventuate, pasture growth had been better than expected, leading to positivity among farmers who were expecting a worse outcome.

Originally from South America, Ms Serra has experienced similar situations before but believes it has been difficult for younger members of her team who have never lived through tough times before.

Virginia Serra

WIN MULTIPLE PRIZES WHEN PURCHASING ESSETI & XCEL ARC PRODUCTS XCEL-ARC

XCEL-ARC

WELDING COMPONENTS TS Electrode ode 3.2mm x 2.5kg pkt $22.17 + GST XAGP32-25 Solid MIG welding elding wiree .9mm x 5kg $25.22 + GSTT

RAZOR MIG 165 WELDER 165 amp. 230 volt.

XA-MIG 165RZ-SP

XCEL-ARC

XCEL-ARC

RAZOR WELD CUT PLASMA

Clean cut 15mm steel.

Sever cut 20mm steel.

XA-N80905

Gasless wire .9mm x 4.55kg $106.09 + GST XA-E71TGS0945

$946.96 +GST

Full range of engineering supplies & accessories for all your repairs & maintenance.

Esseti Welders & Accessories. Stockists and distributors of Trailer Equipment.

Kerrick Hot & Cold Waterblasters & Industrial Vacuum Cleaners.

Locally owned & operated family business for 62 years.

$1560.87+ GST

Industrial 170Amp 320v DC inverter welder stick electrode.

Option 9MMA lift arc DC Tig. XA-ARC 170-SP

$494.78 + GST

South Street, Ashburton PHONE (03) 308-3147 Fax (03) 308-1042 Email office@blacklows.co.nz

ASHBURTON

FREEPHONE 0800 452 522

Free Quotes • Modern Equipment

Efficient Service By Experienced Operators

TQS1 ACCREDITED - NZTA PREQUALIFIED CONTRACTOR TIMARU 55 Sheffield St, Washdyke 03 688 2001 CHRISTCHURCH 56 Greywacke Rd, Harewood 03 341 7266 ASHBURTON 22 Dobson Street West 0275 746 803

ARC 170 WELDER MMA/TIG

Check us out at www.paulsmithearthmoving.co.nz

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

CARPARKS CONVERSION WORK DAIRYLANES DEMOLITION DRAINAGE DRIVEWAYS FORESTRY HOUSE EXCAVATING LANDSCAPING ROADING ROCK RETAINING WALLS SHINGLE & SOIL SUPPLIES SUBDIVISIONS

AORANGI

REGIONAL FINAL

FREE DAY EVENT WHERE Ashburton Showgrounds DATE April 16, 2016 at 8am - 3pm PRACTICAL DAY

EVENING SHOW

• Ashburton Showgrounds

• Collegiate North Rugby Club Rooms

• Great family fun for everyone

• Ticket prices:$40 includes a meal OR $10 for the after party

• Kids activities • Food and coffee available

• Doors open at 5.30pm and 9.00pm for the after party.

Please purchase tickets through

www.youngfarmers.co.nz FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Matt Bell on 027 426 2728 or Amanda Kelly on 022 156 4786

2 14

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

DAIRY

Dunsandel sharemilkers take title farming following 13 years of experience.

“We understand the logistics well, how to employ the right people for the job and have good repeatable systems. We always aim to debunk the myth that large scale farming has large scale waste and inefficiencies.”

Michael and Susie were among the first Synlait Milk suppliers to take up a pasture based grass-fed premium contract offering 25 cents with Munchkin – a US baby infant formula manufacturer.

Munchkin plans to launch a new grassfed branded retailready infant formula into the United States and China that will be manufactured exclusively by Synlait.

Although not aiming to be a dairy farmer, after completion of his Lincoln University studies Michael ended up working on a dairy farm and then took a paper in dairying.

Before long he won a role at the then Synlait Farms Robindale

RURAL

Dunsandel sharemilkers Michael and Susie Woodward have taken out the Share Farmer of the Year competition at the Canterbury Dairy Industry Awards.

Kitset Sheds

BIRDPROOF RAFTERS

STRONG & PROVEN

BROADBAND

COMPLETE KITSETS

Made easy.

RURAL 3G/4G RBI Broadband Fibre Broadband Wireless Broadband

BROADBAND 000 945 easy.

Made 0800

3G/4G RBI Broadband Fibre Broadband Wireless Broadband

0800 000 945

FREE DELIVERY

CALL US FOR A FREE BROCHURE PACK!

0800 428 453 www.alpinebuildings.co.nz

NZ LTD

FAST INSTALL

“An easy process and a great kitset to assemble!”

Dunsandel sharemilkers Michael and Susie Woodward took out the Share Farmer of the Year competition at the recent Canterbury Dairy Industry Awards.

The couple are 50 per cent sharemilking 1000 cows for Purata Farming Ltd and supply Synlait Milk.

It’s not the first time the couple have been in the limelight having won the 2011 Canterbury Farm Managers of the Year. Since then they have entered the awards four times because of the business and risk analysis it provides.

Mr Woodward said the awards helped to identify gaps and to improve farm performance and day-to-day running.

“We also enjoy meeting likeminded people and connecting with industry leaders. We would like to be leaders in the industry and help to close the urban-rural divide.”

The couple have proven their skills at large scale dairy

LOVETT WINDROWING

WINDROWING MAIZE FODDER BEET

TIM LOVETT 021 062 9202 cazwells@xtra.co.nz

www.guardianonline.co.nz

15

ARABLE LAND VALUES STILL HIGH A respected Canterbury based dairy farm valuer is angry at the relentless negative outlook for dairy farm values being fed to the media by the Reserve Bank.

The Reserve Bank’s last six-month financial stability report stated under a severe scenario the milk pay-out would fall to $4 per kilogram of milk solids and assumed dairy farm prices would fall by about 40 per cent by 2018 under that scenario.

However David Montgomery who values dairy farms across the South Island said average milksolids prices to dairy farmers between 2007-14 was in fact $6.88 per kilogram.

While acknowledging the short-term outlook for arable and dairy farmers is grim, Mr Montgomery believes the strength and diversity of Canterbury mixed farming systems along with reliable irrigation means the province would be one of the last affected by a longterm downturn.

“This is reflected in recent Mid Canterbury farm sales since January 2016.”

Three spray irrigated arable farms had sold at excellent prices ranging from $46 to $50,000 per hectare. A smaller irrigated dairy support farm reached just over $60,000 per hectare and a dairy farm sold for $56,500.

David and Jeanette Mongomery.

Call for biosecurity plan The Foundation of Arable Research believes it will be beneficial for the industry to join the Government Industry Agreement (GIA) on biosecurity and will push for a low level biosecurity levy should that happen.

CEO Nick Pyke said responses to any incursions would be better if the industry was part of the GIA. Mr Pyke said the levy would be at a low level but would increase during an incursion.

“With maybe a 10-year timeframe from Government to pay it back. What they are wanting to do is have more industries integrated into a biosecurity system.”

While the likes of the kiwifruit industry was clear-cut in terms of biosecurity risks, the arable industry had around 40

species it was involved with and was more complex in terms of key risks to crops.

There were three key levels around our national border, he said.

“The first is the pre-border area where we will have very little ability to influence.

If we are involved in the GIA we will be able to talk to them and say we want them to engage around certain things.”

However, the second level at the border was where the industry could start to have some influence.

Post border – the third level of biosecurity – was where industry could play a major role.

“It’s about what we do once something’s established and developing plans around how to manage or eradicate it. At that level MPI will engage quite markedly with us.”

Farming

2 16

www.guardianonline.co.nz

ARABLE

HORTICULTURE/VITICULTURE

Ready for China

TOUGH NEW RESTRICTIONS The Ministry for Primary Industries has imposed tough new border restrictions to stop contaminated seed from entering New Zealand.

The move follows the discovery of velvetleaf in fodder beet seeds imported from Europe. MPI, industry bodies and regional councils are currently responding to an outbreak of the invasive weed in farm properties across the country.

“We already have strong border controls in place to stop contaminated seed from entering New Zealand. The new interim measures will provide another layer of biosecurity until we know exactly how the contaminated fodder beet seeds entered the country,” says Stephen Butcher, MPI Manager Import and Export Plants.

The new, strengthened interim measures include an import ban on all fodder beet seed lines known to be contaminated with velvetleaf and the requirement for signoff by one of MPI’s two chief technical officers before all other fodder beet seed can be released at the border.

All pelleted seed imports (not just fodder beet) will be subject to laboratory testing for contaminants, rather than solely using visual inspection by quarantine officers.

New Zealand apple grower and exporter, Freshco will join key partner Shenzhen Yuanxing Fruits for the launch of the new season Breeze™ Apples on March 26th in Guangzhou, Southern China.

Shenzhen Yuanxing is a Chinese packer, exporter, importer and distributor with more than 20 years of experience in handling fruits and vegetables. The company supplies major retail chains and distributes products to all major cities in Hong Kong and Mainland China.

The Breeze variety is one of New Zealand’s earliest harvested apples. The variety is available to provides retailers and consumers in most Asian destinations as early as mid-March.

Cobby Lin, of Shenzhen Yuanxing Fruit, explains: “we believe this apple will be a success on the Chinese market. The Breeze apple is one of the earliest New Zealand apple varieties that is available in Spring. In addition, the apple has a particularly red colour and its taste is sweet; two features Chinese consumers love”.

“Finally, the variety is fully owned

by Freshco in New Zealand. Chinese consumers prefer New Zealand apples, image-wise it provides for strong marketing.”

Blocked Gutters?

GumLeaf Can Help.

TRAILERS

“Because this is the first year the variety is being commercialised, we are focusing on retailers. Retailers can help by introducing and promoting the variety to consumers. Freshco has been working on breeding and commercialising Breeze apples since 2008. With current plantings reaching maturity we are expecting to increase volumes over the coming seasons.”

The 2016 growing season in NZ has been excellent for Breeze™, delivering high quality fruit with superb sweetness and fantastic red colour. Breeze™ is aromatic and very crisp.

Single and Tandem Axle

MADE IN NZ

Different size options as well as extras available

Our patented steel mesh is the best protection for your gutters/ spouting from leaves, snow, birds, vermin and even pine needles.

• • •

10 year warranty Rust and sag resistant Experienced install service available (DIY available)

• •

Quick, easy and safe – Use GumLeaf for clean drinking water from your roof Available for all roof types

12 months warranty and WOF supplied

CALL ROHAN MON-SAT ANYTIME FOR ADVICE AND A FREE COMPETITIVE QUOTE

0800 486 532 03 982 8850

Call Allan on 308 4867 today for more information

www.gumleaf.co.nz

92 Dobson Street, Ashburton Phone 308 4867 Mon-Fri 7am-5pm; Sat 8am-12pm

WASTE ISSUES? WE CAN HELP • • • • • •

Septic tank cleaning all systems Portaloos Dairy sumps, wedges and saucers Drain cleaning truck Residential drain clearing High powered water blasting jetting truck for blocked drains, commercial and residential

CALL THE POOCREW

Phone Darryl Burrowes on 03 308 5293 or 0274 333 563

Locally owned and operated

www.guardianonline.co.nz

17

HORTICULTURE/VITICULTURE

NZ kiwifruit on a roll The United States Department of Agriculture says export receipts were up a significant 43 per cent, at NZD $1.44 billion on an FOB basis.

Forecasts for 2016 indicate a period of consolidation with production and exports up 1.5 per cent at 482,400 metric tonnes and 460,400 MT respectively. However over the next four to five years export volumes are likely to resume a faster growth rate, expanding by an estimated additional 20 per cent.

The main driver behind the expected production increases is the new and very successful gold kiwifruit variety G3. Plantings and graftings of the G3 variety began only relatively recently, in 2010, yet now comprise 4600 hectares, or about 35 per cent of the total kiwifruit area in New Zealand.

The kiwifruit sector’s recovery from the devastating bacterial disease PSA is well and truly in full swing.

Production in 2015 (January 1 to December 31) is estimated at 475,000 MT. This is 30 per cent greater than the estimated production in 2014. The estimated

PROTECTION

harvested area in 2015 was 12,225 ha, which is 9 per cent greater than the previous year.

The huge increase comes about from a big jump in gold (variety G3) kiwifruit area harvested, from 2500 ha in 2014 to an estimated 3500 ha in 2015, and a superb growing season in 2014/2015 after which the highest ever nationwide average yield for green variety was recorded.

Looking out to 2016, the

production forecast is for 482,000 MT, a small increase of 1.5 per cent over 2015.

Gold kiwifruit comprise 36 per cent of all kiwifruit sold in Japan but only 17 per cent in Northern EU. Zespri Gold sells at a premium to virtually all other kiwifruit. China is similar with shipments of gold kiwifruit making up 37 per cent of the total.

Winemakers plan to protect New Zealand regional names in Europe, with a proposal about geographical origins moving a step closer to becoming law.

Parliament has now had its first reading of the Geographical Indications Amendment Bill.

Wine industry lawyer John Barker said, once the bill passed into law, exporters would be allowed to head to Europe to register the likes of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.

Mr Barker said it would also pave the way for the French to register Champagne and Bordeaux here. – Radio New Zealand

Mike Preston AVAILABLE FROM NORTH CANTERBURY TO NORTH OTAGO

L I F E ST Y L E & RU RAL SPECI AL I ST

Considering Selling?

Call Mike who has proven rural expertise and the marketing reach to achieve the best result for your property.

Mike Preston M 027 430 7041 B 03 307 2400 mike.preston@bayleys.co.nz www.mikepreston.co.nz

WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008.

2 18

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

Closure of stock

Closing the stockwater races will result in a loss of water and habitat for some wildlife, but could improve ecological health of the Ashburton River and some of the smaller streams.

The Ashburton District has been well served by the system of stockwater races that distribute water to farms.

There was once over 3600km of races that carried water; about one-third of those have closed and the Ashburton District Council (ADC) wants to divest itself of the remainder.

Farming practices have changed since the days of dryland crop and sheep farms and now piped irrigation schemes can efficiently distribute water to most stock.

The council is investigating a system of piped water for race “customers” who have no alternative supply for stock drinking water.

The downside of closing the races will be a loss of wetland habitat and water source for some birds, fish and invertebrates.

This could be especially serious for our important pollinators, the bees. A piped system of delivering water will also mean there is no water loss that recharges groundwater – about 80 per cent of the race water goes into the groundwater.

The positive side of reducing water take from the river for stockwater is that we have a great

Mary Ralston

FOREST AND BIRD

opportunity to keep more water in the river and improve its ecological health.

The Ashburton is the most over-allocated river in the whole of New Zealand. The natural flow of the river, measured at the State Highway 1 bridge between Ashburton and Tinwald, is estimated at about 30 cumecs, but the actual mean flow at the bridge is around 3.6 cumecs, only about a tenth of the natural flow. This is due to the huge amount taken out of the river for irrigation and other uses, including the stockwater system.

Closing the races will save a lot of river water. ADC currently has a consent for a maximum take of 8.2 cumecs for the stockwater system, although in practice only about 50 to 70 per cent of this is used.

www.guardianonline.co.nz

19

kwater races good news for river There are 27 intakes for the race water, 20 of which are in the Ashburton River catchment.

As stock only drink a small proportion of the water in the races, the potential saving of water could be somewhere in the vicinity of 2.5 cumecs in the Ashburton catchment.

This amount of water could be a significant help in repairing the pitiful state that the Ashburton River is in.

The Ashburton Zone Water Management Committee and ECan have set a target of six cumecs as a minimum flow at the State Highway bridge by 2023.

By keeping water that is now used for stockwater in the river, flows could be raised to meet this target – and if we could do this before 2023 that would be a good thing too.

Increased flow in the river benefits irrigators as there will be fewer periods that the river reaches its minimum flow and irrigation has to cease.

Keeping water in the river to raise flows is not simple maths as river water and groundwater are linked.

Leaving a cumec of water in the upper reaches of the river does not mean there will be a cumec more in the river at the State Highway bridge because of the loss of river water to the underground aquifers.

The district has been well served by the system of stockwater races but closing them provides an opportunity to keep more water in the river.

These aquifers feed spring-fed streams, some of which supply water to the present stockwater race system, such as Lagmhor Creek, Langdon’s North and South, Remington Creek and Shepherds Brook.

The extensive and increasing use of groundwater for irrigation and the

subsequent loss of river water to the groundwater system has resulted in many of our smaller rivers drying up completely more often and over a longer reach of the river.

This is the case on the North Ashburton, Selwyn, Hinds, Orari, Ashley and other small rivers

throughout Canterbury and is the environmental cost of intensive agriculture on the Canterbury Plains.

Let us keep as much water as we can in the river to restore its ecological health for wildlife and improve the water quality for a range of recreational uses.

Phone 03 307 1990 Level 2, 73 Burnett St, Ashburton www.visioninsurance.co.nz

Farm Building Kitsets From $8,499*. That’s Versatile! $8,499+gst

$9,999+gst

Stand-Tough Kitset 3 Bay

Stand-Tough Kitset 3 Bay Shed

Colorsteel 6.0m deep, 3.6m wide, 3.6m high front, high wind zone, 1.35kpa snow loading with canopy & 2.7m x 3m roller door.

Zincalume three 3.6m wide open bays, 7.0m deep x 4.2m high.

Drop in today at 364 West Street, Ashburton or call Brent on 03 308 3569 Optional extras - Braced to high or very high wind, canopies, available up to 6m tall and with up to 6m wide bays Terms & conditions apply.

2 20

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

I’ve finally found my release valve I recently got paid mattered, possibly the most wonderful even wouldn’t have compliment: “You, happened, without Craig, do seem to sail that ugly background through obviouslyof things happening infuriating levels of beyond our control. sh#$ (often literal) I’ll be the first Craig ELBOW DEEP with a pythonesque to admit I haven’t @dairymanNZ Hickman élan. It is most always displayed admirable.” an admirable We were discussing “pythonesque élan”, stress and how I deal with it, and I but I’ve finally found my release valve think we can all agree it has been a that lets me laugh at getting kicked by stressful year. a cow, or copping a load of shit on the Obviously stressful for dairy farmers, head during milking, or even filling of which I am one, but also for families the cab of the ute with effluent. I still of farmers and all the businesses that haven’t learned to laugh at impossibly rely on the money going around. tangled Rotorainer cables, but surely The pressures are huge, and we’re that can’t be far off. all making tough decisions in the face There’s that moment during milking of factors beyond our control; be it when you’re distracted, your head a lower pay-out, rain during harvest, filled with impossibly complicated and reduced turnover, or trying to allocate important management decisions, and dwindling hours of work amongst you don’t even realise a cow has lifted your employees. her tail until it quite literally hits you Often, it’s not these big things that in the face. cause us to snap and yell at the staff Past-Craig would have washed it off or the cows, or go home in a bad mood and quietly fumed, Present-Craig snaps and pick a fight. a picture and tweets it, preferably with It’s the little things, the things that a witty heading. shouldn’t have gone wrong because And waits. It doesn’t take long for you’re good at your job and know the replies to come back; “trying a better. new anti-ageing face pack?”, “thank The little things that wouldn’t have God cows don’t fly” and, my favourite

Dairyman is the first to admit he displays an admirable “pythonesque elan”.

“Farmers eh? Shit-faced at 6am”.

I enjoy making other people laugh, and I don’t mind if it’s at my own expense.

I was recently unblocking the effluent spreader and, having finally got it sorted, I called the shed and asked them to switch it on.

Too late. I realised I’d parked the ute too close. With the window down. And the door open.

It was nothing that couldn’t be sorted with the high pressure hose, but at last count over 7000 people

had seen that picture and presumably laughed at (hopefully laughed with) the idiot farmer who found himself in that situation.

I share my mistakes for the amusement of others. You might bake, or collect stamps, or hunt, or coach children’s sport.

Whatever it is, I can’t encourage you enough to find that release valve that allows you to let off steam.

It’s a stressful year, and it’s dangerous to let the pressure build up.

TO GROW DON’T LET YOUR MORE GRASS PROFITS GO UP IN SMOKE

Liquid Nitrogen + Liquid Ammonium Sulphate Mix with Gibberellic Acid For more details and advice to help you achieve the best results call us today!

Office: 03 302 8098 Ashley Jenkins: 0274 362 448 Fergus Wakelin: 0274 603 921

BOOK ONLINE: www.molloyag.co.nz

Call us today to fi nd a cost effective solution to your insurance needs 69 Tancred Street, Ashburton Phone 03 308 9612

www.guardianonline.co.nz

ADVERTISING FEATURE

21

Good management practices improve environmental outcomes Barrhill farmer Malcolm Cairns says the Farm Environment Plan (FEP) process provides farmers with practical tools to improve both environmental and economic outcomes.

“It triggers a thought process and makes you think about the impact your operation is having on the environment. I have started making changes which will make a difference to my farm over the long term.”

Malcolm has purchased soil moisture monitors to help him make better decisions about when to irrigate and has also started using Production Wise - a free online crop management system provided

by FAR. “After going through the FEP process I saw that I needed to do more to measure moisture levels in the soil and this is something that wouldn’t have happened without the FEP. “Applying the right amount of water in the right place and at the right time is really important for farmers.

Given that we’re paying a charge for water delivery any amount that we don’t use is a saving for us and for the environment.”

Efficient water use is a win-win for farmers and the environment. Less water drains through the soil which reduces the amount of nitrogen entering groundwater. Pumping and irrigation costs are also reduced while ensuring that more water remains in the ground and rivers.

Barrhill farmer Malcolm Cairns discusses his Farm Environment Plan with Irrigo Centre environmental manager Eva Harris and Aqualinc soil scientist Glen Treweek.

After completing two FEPs and going through the auditing process Malcolm says the most important advice he can offer farmers is to make

“

should have everything you need.”

Aqualinc soil scientist Glen Treweek says the FEP audit process assesses whether

table.

I look at their records and systems then we go for a walk around the farm to see how they’re doing.”

It takes a while to get your records organised but if you’re using a good system then you should have everything you need

sure their records are up-todate.

“It takes a while to get your records organised but if you’re using a good system then you

farmers are on track with good management practices.

“Initially most farmers feel apprehensive but it’s really just a chat around the kitchen

For those farmers who are shareholders in irrigation schemes there is often help available to make the FEP and audit process easier.

Irrigo Centre environmental manager Eva Harris has assisted 171 Barrhill-Chertsey Irrigation Limited (BCIL) and Acton Farmers’ Irrigation Cooperative (AFIC) shareholders to complete FEPs. Eva says the majority of farmers see completing FEPs and audits are part of an overall continuous improvement programme.

“Most farmers see environmental sustainability as essential to passing on a solid business to the next generation.”

Hinds Plan Change update

The Hinds Plains Plan Change has been introduced as a section in the Land and Water Regional Plan.

Three appeals have been lodged on the Hinds Plan Change (Plan Change 2 to the Land & Water Regional Plan) which was notified by Environment Canterbury in February.

The appeals, on points of law, were lodged by RDR, BCI and Federated Farmers and will be dealt with by the High Court.

Although the rules in Plan Change 2 will only have full legal effect once the appeals are resolved, it’s important that landowners focus on implementing good management practices.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR LANDOWNERS Implement the good management practices which have been agreed by industry.

Complete a Farm Environment Plan.

Complete a nutrient budget and continue to keep a record of input data for OVERSEER. If you need more information contact Environment Canterbury by emailing ecinfo@ecan.govt.nz

QUALITY GALVANISED PRODUCTS variable width crush sliding gate

SHEEP TROUGH

This Variable width crush (Saracen self locking head bale and additional sliding gate pictured) is ideal for dealing with animals of all sizes and still provide full access to all areas of the animal. A tread plate floor angled on both sides ensures that animals keep their feet inside the crush when side doors are open.

HAY BASKET

$7900

$60

$100

Heavy duty tombstone feeder

yearling FEEDER

This Heavy duty tombstone feeder is perfect for feeding out to larger beef animals, bulls or horned cattle.

It comes in 3 sections, is open bottomed and weighs around 150 kg.

Measurements: 2285 mm (7’6�) diameter, 670 mm high welded sheet metal base, 1150 mm high and has 12 feed spaces.

$850

$495 Multi-purpose feed trailer

FEEDER ON SKID

$1450

Hot-dip galvanized 4 tonne capacity Heavy duty wheels and pickup hitch Retractable drawbar Capable of holding; P.K.E, balage, fine chop or maize

$6800

KWIK SHEEP TURNOVER CRATE

Riverdown Steel bring to you a large range of UK manufactured livestock feeding, handling and yard equipment.

All products are manufactured from high grade steel sourced from the UK and Europe and HOT DIPPED IN GALVANISE. This process gives protection, inside and out, from corrosion, giving them the longest possible working life.

Contact us for a personal and affordable solution to your livestock feeding and handling needs today!

PORTABLE CRUSH

$4400

$2250 All prices are GST exclusive

Give Keith a call 0211 433 469.

Email - riverdownsteel@gmail.com

www.riverdownsteel.com

www.guardianonline.co.nz

23

Why we need a NZ brand Many keep asking the question, how do we achieve a NZ brand across the primary industry?

Before we can get our head around the how, we first need to make sure that those within the primary industry understand why this is so important for the future of their industry.

Imagine this, a family in Europe, China, America or UK sit down to a celebratory dinner. It’s a happy special family event. They start with a New Zealand crayfish salad, moving on to New Zealand lamb glazed with manuka honey, accompanied by vegetables sautéed in New Zealand butter.

For dessert they enjoy a New Zealand kiwifruit crumble with Kapiti vanilla bean ice cream.

They toast to the happy occasion with glass of Mt Difficulty pinot noir.

It’s not about having a story or brand for one of our premium products, it’s about providing an experience, a feeling, a moment, a memory.

Maurice Myers

KPMG

We don’t need them to eat the New Zealand story every day, just on the special occasions, the kind of occasion when you don’t mind how much it costs.

To be part of the consumers’ special story we need to make sure we are able to tell them ours, not just for a product but for our entire industry.

The Agribusiness and Economics research Unit (a Lincoln University research centre) completed a study investigating maximising export returns, its purpose was to identify what attributes would attract the greatest premium from international consumers. A big part of this was the ability to really tell a great New Zealand story.

The study illustrated that

it’s not enough to just throw a label on it saying it is from New Zealand.

We need to tell a story not just of the product, but of the total industry it is a part of. We need to take people on an emotional journey, make them feel like they just walked through the field that rack of lamb was once ‘skipping through’ with its friend the ‘steak’, while the bees returning to the hive after feeding on manuka flowers buzz overhead.

You might snigger reading this thinking what a load of digested grass, but the international consumer wants to feel an emotional connection with their food, they want to know where it comes from - not just know it is safe to consume, but that it’s morally right to consume it.

New Zealand’s primary industries are innovative, creative and full of passion.

Globally we are viewed as a great success, and while our intellectual property can most likely be duplicated, our story and pride in what we

Imagine a family in Europe sitting down to Kapiti vanilla bean ice cream.

produce can’t be. So why is it so important to have a New Zealand story?

The long-term expectations around the growth in protein demand is largely unchanged.

This means huge opportunities continue to exist for farmers and the supply chain partners to lift the value they capture from the products they produce.

It’s the perfect time for the entire primary sector to articulate a vision for its future, give confidence to farmers that they are part of an industry with outstanding opportunities ahead of it.

This vision will enable organisations to connect with the partners we need to keep us in touch with the highest value market opportunities.

  

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

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

BRINGING YOU VALUABLE INSIGHTS

 

For Good Management Practices, farm smarter with Smart Ag Solutions. 

CONTACT T: 03 307 6355 E: ashburton@kpmg.co.nz

2 24

Farming

ADVERTISING FEATURE

www.guardianonline.co.nz

Software helps farms communicate Communication in farm workplaces has become more important with the Health and Safety at Work Act that came into effect on April 4, says Collier Isaacs of Farm IQ .

As the WorkSafeNZ chief executive Gordon MacDonald has pointed out, farmers’ responsibility to ensure safety on farms remains mostly unaltered with the new legislation. The difference is that it now makes almost everyone on the farm responsible for keeping safe and well, and looking after others around them.

This comes down to communication, says Collier, and farmers could look to new farm management software to help. Farmers using software say it helps them work with staff and visitors to improve safety and make sure there are “no surprises”.

“It is so much easier – it can be paperless,” says Collier.

“With good software you get a range of templates with all the right sections for you to fill in and mapping so it’s easy to show people what to watch out for. And with cloud storage it’s all safe and secure, and you don’t have

to download updates at all.

Working with a mobile app means you can record as you go and have information at your fingertips.

“Using health and safety software helps involve staff in managing health and safety.

For example, you can record meetings and training, and use the software to schedule tasks that fall out of these. You can assign them to staff members so everyone knows who is responsible for what. That clear communication really helps.

“The FarmIQ System includes health and safety software that has been developed using WorkSafe New Zealand guides. When farmers have clarified what they need to do with programmes such as WorkSafe’s Safer Farms or Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Farm Safety Support, then FarmIQ is a good, paperless option for the recording side of things.”

One farm business using the FarmIQ System is finding it’s easy to use and means there are no surprises. The AtihauWhanganui Incorporation employs 45 staff and uses a large number of contractors to run nine units covering a total of nearly 42,000 ha in the Waimarino area.

“Health and safety recording in the FarmIQ System is easy to use and follow, even for those who aren’t as comfortable with computers,” says Atihau chief executive Andrew Beijeman. “The great thing is it’s all on one page.”

He says Atihau have recently loaded all their hazard

information, management plans and incident reporting into the FarmIQ System, and have started using the online mapping to record the location of hazards.

“In the next three months we want to be able to give our contractors read-only access to a hazard map and the safety side of FarmIQ. That way they can see everything in detail before they go on to the farm.

These are big farms, and it’s about no surprises. This will probably be the biggest thing the FarmIQ System does for us that will improve our safety.

“Some of our more techsavvy team members have

started to use their cellphones to take photos and report hazards as they see them, which is a great way of encouraging people to engage in safety management. It also gives us a practical place to record our staff meetings, incident reporting, hazards and master emergency plans all in one spot, and with mapreferenced information.”

Porangahau farmer Ben Tosswill is another using the FarmIQ System to cover health and safety recording for his 780ha property. “It shows you are proactive and thinking about these things.

“The questions are good. It makes you consider the key aspects to be compliant. It includes recording on phone when people like contractors arrive.

“I’ve been advised that I need to make a simple diary note that I’ve told them about hazards in the area they will be in – so this is perfect, it goes in right on the spot.”

Charlies Takeaways A Division of Robsons Canterbury

LIQUID WASTE MANAGEMENT

Septic tank emptying and maintaining, pumps supplied and fitted

ALL ANIMAL EFFLUENT EMPTIED AND SPREAD

100% Canterbury Family Owned and Operated

In the waste business for 40 years UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

LIQUID WASTE MANAGEMENT

ASHBURTON

Rakaia 0800 372 004 Christchurch 0800 372 003 robsonenviro@xtra.co.nz www.robsonenvironmental.co.nz

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR FARM SHEDS AND TIMBER SUPPLIES 3 BAY LEAN-TO FARM SHED Bird proof

Shed illustration only

TIMBER SUPPLIES

Delivery Mid Canterbury

SHED 1 - 10.8X6M

SHED 2 - 13.5X6M

SHED 3 - 13.5X9M

• 2.4M Back Height • 3.0M Front Height • 3.6M Bays • 6M Deep • H5 Hi Strength Poles • 0.9 kpa Snow Load • High Wind • 0.4 Zincalume Steel

• 3M Back Height • 3.6M Front Height • 4.5M Bays • 6M Deep (Clear span) • H5 Hi Strength Poles • 0.9 kpa Snow Load • High Wind • 0.4 Zincalume Steel

• 3M Back Height • 3.6M Front Height • 4.5M Bays • 9M Deep (Clear span) • H5 Hi Strength Poles • 0.9 kpa Snow Load • High Wind • 0.4 Zincalume Steel

Call Ashburton ITM today on 307 0412 for a very competitive quote.

92 Dobson Street, Ashburton Phone 307 0412 | sales@ashburtonitm.co.nz

ROUGH SAWN SG8 100X50 H3.2

ROUGH SAWN NO2 200X50 H3.2

• 100 pieces per pack • 50 pieces per pack • $3.22 per metre +GST • $5.18 per metre +GST

ROUGH SAWN SG8 150X50 H3.2

ROUGH SAWN SG8 200X50 H3.2

• 70 pieces per pack • 50 pieces per pack • $4.83 per metre +GST • $6.45 per metre +GST

HOURS Mon-Fri: 7am-5pm Sat: 8am-12noon

PLANER GAUGED SG8 100X50 H3.2 • 100 pieces per pack • $3.66 per metre +GST

26 2

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Irrigate the smart, precise way Wireless tool provides complete remote management of precision variable rate irrigation.

Integrated system offers remote control, monitoring and reporting.

Lindsay New Zealand has announced that it now is offering Growsmart® Precision VRI with FieldNET® to provide complete remote pivot management, with VRI control, monitoring and reporting.

With Precision VRI, growers can precisely apply the correct amount of water over multiple crops, soil types and terrains. 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.

“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,” said Richard Hall, Lindsay regional manager for Australia and New Zealand. “Configurable inputs allow for real-time system status data feeds, and the cloud-stored backup reduces maintenance and repair system downtime.”

Ashburton farmer, Phill Everest uses Precision VRI to irrigate his farm in accordance with local council regulations, while demonstrating a passion for environmental efficiency that he hopes others will follow.

Three years ago, he converted his beef and cropping farm to dairying.

Flemington Dairies features 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, he 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.

He describes his decision to adopt precision technology as a means to “kill five birds with one stone.”

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

Using Growsmart Precision VRI to irrigate 132 hectares, Everest 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 across the property.

The additional water can irrigate an additional 23ha on his farm.

Looking to the future, Everest said he’s interested in

investing in Precision VRI on his remaining pivots.

“Some people call me a green farmer, but it’s something that spins my wheels,” he said.

Adding FieldNET to Precision VRI requires additional hardware that allows farmers to customise and remotely manage water applications.

A strong, long-lasting steel enclosure houses the new control panel in which you can view irrigation plans in colour at the pivot point.

Irrigation depths can be changed on the fly, a handy feature for instance when the dairy herd is going into a paddock that the irrigator is about to cover, the irrigation on that paddock can be turned off then and there.

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

14 NIGHT CRUISE ONBOARD EMERALD PRINCESS *

FIJI & SOUTH PACIFIC CRUISE

$1789

FROM PP TWIN SHARE

UNCOVER A WORLD OF WONDERS

Includes AUD$200* onboard credit, main meals & entertainment onboard, port charges & taxes Highlights: Sydney, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji Departing Sydney round-trip on 28 Nov 2016

helloworld Timaru

257 Stafford Street

timaru@helloworld.co.nz

PHILL STAYS GREEN WITH INCREASED REVENUE

03 688 6099

Fares are per person, in NZD, in complete twin share, based on lead in staterooms available at time of publication, inclusive of all discounts, taxes, fees, and port expenses (which are subject to change). Subject to availability at time of booking. Prices are based on cash or cheque. Cruise deposit, amendment and cancellation conditions apply. Travel agent service fees may apply.

Special conditions apply - please ask for full details at time of enquiry. Sale ends 30 April 2016, unless sold out prior. Valid for new bookings and not combinable with any other offer. Offers subject to availability. Whilst information is correct at time of publication, offer may be withdrawn or varied at any time without notice. Comparison launch fares are based on fares launched into the market from March 2014 and June 2015. Discount is already included, no further discount applies. Onboard credit is per stateroom and is applied to the first 2 passengers in a stateroom. Credit is not transferable, non-refundable, not redeemable for cash and cannot be used at the medical centre or casino. Princess Cruises Booking and Passage Conditions apply.

Prices are subject to change without notice. HW0162

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.

Both looking to be rid of reading glasses?

Simply have your Presbyond® procedure within three months of your partner and you’ll not only enjoy the benefits of clearer vision BUT A SUBSTANTIAL COST SAVING AS WELL*

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 more at www.laservision.co.nz or call us on 0800 527371

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

*Conditions apply

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

www.guardianonline.co.nz

27

Reduce packaging and save money If you use weed killers like Roundup or Glyphosate try usinga white Vinegar and salt. Unlike commercial weed killers, vinegar is eco-friendly and won’t harm people, pets or the environment and you won’t have toxic non recyclable packaging to get rid of.

How to make your own non toxic unpackaged weed killer • Pour 1 litre of white vinegar into a bucket.

• Add 1 cup of table salt. Stir the solution until all the salt dissolves completely.

• Stir in 1 tablespoon of liquid dishwashing soap. This will act as a surfactant and make the vinegar and salt solution adhere to the weeds more efficiently. Stir thoroughly.

• Funnel the weed killer into a plastic spray bottle or use a paint brush to paint onto edges or driveways.

• Drench the weeds with the solution on a dry, sunny day.

Coat all surfaces well with the spray. Any plants soaked with this solution will die within several days. Reapply if necessary.

Sheryl Stivens

without the plastic packaging. This will save you approximately 92cents per litre. Give it a try.

How to make your own compost and garden fertilizers Use your food scraps and garden waste including those precious unsprayed lawn clippings to make your own soil and fertilizers. I can show you easy ways with worms or bokashi buckets or compost garden beds. You can make enough soil through the winter to fill your pots in the spring if you just learn how and save money by reducing your waste.

MASTAGARD ASHBURTON

• Funnel any leftover weed killer into an empty plastic container. Cap it tightly.

Label it clearly and store in a cool dark spot indefinitely.

How to make your own yoghurt from milk powder and reduce packaging If your family buy yoghurt in plastic containers you can save money and reduce packaging by making your own. Many people already have a yoghurt maker in the cupboard and may buy the sachets which are non recyclable to make their own yoghurt, Did you know that you can save some of your natural yoghurt as a culture to make the new batch by reusing your culture.

• Into your yoghurt maker jar or a glass jar mix ½ cup of

Come along to the monthly FREE compost demo Monday 18th April 10.30-11.30am

Mt Hutt College students experimenting with ways to reduce packaging

yoghurt culture with 1 cup of full cream milk powder, fill with water and shake.

Put in your yoghurt maker and leave overnight. You can add your own fruit toppings and ladle into your own containers for lunches etc.

This will save you $2.- $4 per litre.

Have your milk in reusable glass bottles and reduce packaging You can add a cup of either full cream or trim milk powder to water; shake it up in a glass bottle and stand it in the fridge overnight. It will taste the same as the standardized milk from the supermarket

Ashburton Eco Education Centre Ashburton Resource Recovery Park For help with recycling or composting call 0800 627 824 or email sherylstivens@gmail.com

Working with you for a greener tomorrow Specialists in all types of waste removal Frontload bins for General Waste Gantry Skips for Building sites or a home clean up

Call us today on 0800 240 120 | www.envirowaste.co.nz Email: christchurch@envirowaste.co.nz

Masta-Gardener COMPOST

Quality compost slow brewed locally in Ashburton

by Mastagard from a diversity of green plant materials.

Batch tested to ensure quality and ready to apply a generous helping to your gardens or farmland.

Pick up from the Ashburton Resource Recovery Park. Range Road, Ashburton.

Affordable prices: Bags $3 - Scoop $15

Enquiries for bulk prices Call 0800 627 824 or email: glen.sole@envirowaste.co.nz

28 2

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

ADVERTISING FEATURE

The evolution of fodderbeet

By Patrick Davis, Wholesale seeDs Fodderbeet has been an increasingly popular topic in the industry of late given its economic importance to farmers throughout New Zealand. As a forage crop it has revolutionised the marketplace, offering high yielding quality feed for a very low cost, resulting in exponential growth in area and displacement of other traditional forages like kale.

The agronomic requirements for fodderbeet are unique, given its high yield potential and the requirement to be precision planted. Advice from some is largely based around what is best practice in the sugar beet industry in the UK, which is fundamentally flawed given the contrasting climates, differing soil types, and heavy inputs of spray irrigation in New Zealand.

One prominent discussion point this season has been the discovery of virus, specifically beet western yellow virus in fodderbeet crops in Canterbury and the perception

that this virus is responsible for the yellow and/or anaemic appearance of many crops.

This has led to sub-optimal fertiliser recommendations on some properties, exacerbating the anaemic appearance of the crops and decreasing yield potential. In reality beet western yellow virus (which is aphid transmitted) was

“

large volumes of targeted applications of potassium and nitrogen fertiliser post canopy closure significantly increased crop yield through maintaining and producing more green leaf.

This management strategy is far more influential on crop appearance and performance than the presence of virus.

nutrients in maximising economic performance.

Another area of debate has been the implementation of non-precision or conventional direct drills to sow fodderbeet in order to reduce expenditure.

The requirement for precision planting of beet to maximise yield has been a fundamental agronomic

Both plant population and plant arrangement are optimised through precision planting, resulting in efficient use of resources such as space, nutrients, water and light

identified in New Zealand in sugar beet as early as 1970 and with most of the respected agronomists in the industry acknowledging its presence in fodderbeet since its inception over 15 years ago.

The effect of the virus on crop performance in New Zealand is negligible, given that we consistently grow the highest yielding fodderbeet crops in the world.

The early industry supporters identified that

The nutritional management of fodderbeet is extremely important in achieving maximum potential yield and is often poorly managed due to the crop’s unique physiology and the lack of targeted research.

The evolution of fertiliser strategies with beet has been as rapid as the growth of fodderbeet in the marketplace, with many failing to recognise the importance of both timing and quantity of specific

principle for over a century.

Both plant population and plant arrangement are optimised through precision planting, resulting in efficient use of resources such as space, nutrients, water and light.

When a crop is planted with non-precision equipment, plants are either too close together which severely reduces bulb size, or too far apart leaving exposed ground and vulnerability to weed competition.

It is a fact that these crops are cheaper to grow on a per hectare basis but not on an economic basis. Cumulative yield measurements taken over this growing season on irrigated crops in Mayfield confirm this, with a 15 per cent yield difference in late January and a 55 per cent difference in late February (11T/ha vs 17T/ha) in favour of the precision planted crop.

The growth rates through this period were three times higher in the precision planted fodderbeet, which averaged over 250kgDM/day.

It is very clear that the lower growing costs are offset by a significant yield reduction resulting in the need to plant larger areas, which in turn increases total cost and reduces profit.

Conventional direct drilling of fodderbeet is like taking a step back in time to when kale was the dominant forage in the New Zealand marketplace - it removes the most important attribute of our farming systems which is the ability to consistently achieve high yielding low cost feed.

from our farm gate to yours

SEEDS 0800 670 770

SCIENCE

AGRONOMY www.wholesaleseeds.co.nz

SLURRY & MUCK SPREADING JOSKIN EUROLINER SLURRY TANKERS

FROM $4 CUBIC/M CALL US TODAY

JOSKIN FERTI-SPACE HORIZON & PERARD MUCK SPREADERS

STORTH MEGA MIX LAGOON STIRRERS

7 METRE AND 9.5 METRE

BEST ADVICE, BEST PRICE

CALL FOR A NO OBLIGATION FARM VISIT

PONDS • COMPOST • SUMPS • MUCK • WEDGES • LIME • TANKS • SAUCERS CONTACT MATT TODAY M: 027 281 2089 P: 307 2124 E: matt@mattlovett.co.nz

www.mattlovett.co.nz

2 30

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

The rollercoaster continues . . .

Nice to hear this morning that the Global Dairy Trade overnight auction had a rise of 1.5 per cent or thereabouts.

The only problem is that 1.5 per cent of bugger all is exactly that, bugger all!

But that’s still better than a few of the previous trades where people were happy with a 6 per cent drop because it wasn’t the predicted 10 per cent plus drop.

As someone said it was a bit strange to see people happy with a smaller than expected drop in price, but nevertheless still a drop.

The whole dairy industry, and in fact all our farm products, seem to rely on a disaster somewhere in the world eg drought, floods, fires and earthquakes, to keep prices here up and I guess at the moment we have hit the perfect storm – no floods, no droughts, low commodity prices worldwide, all end up with us only getting low returns for our products.

Even though the dairy industry has been having

Chris Murdoch

PROPERTY BROKERS

financial problems for over a year, it is now starting to affect all other support type farming and businesses in rural towns.

Grain prices are at lows not seen for the past 20 years or so and with very little being spent on farm development, and on plant replacement, it is starting to have an effect on everyday townspeople.

However, there is some light at the end of the tunnel, even if only a glimmer.

It seems that there should be at least another 50c to 60c per kilograms of milk solids due to the rolling nature of Fonterra’s process of a 18-month rolling forward cover, so maybe next season

$4.50 to $5 may be possible.

As I drive around Mid Canterbury talking to farmers, it astounds me as to how quickly adjustments to budgets and on-farm management changes to help cope with these times have

been implemented.

For those that survive this period, a whole new understanding of farming will have come to the fore as I guess it did in the 1980s.

Every farmer will look at every dollar earned and then

re-think how to spend that dollar wisely to make another dollar.

Canterbury is a great place to live and farm and I am sure very soon we will look back and say 2015-16 was a tough time, but we got through.

IRRIGATION SPECIALISTS

your one-stop shop for... resource consent applications and compliance reviews water meter installation and verification water meter datalogging, telemetry and reporting soil moisture monitoring dairy effluent irrigation design and troubleshooting effluent storage requirements OVERSEER® analysis and nutrient budgeting irrigation system design and troubleshooting

Aqualinc Research Ltd CHCH

propertybrokers.co.nz

Neal Borrie 03 964 6521 / ASHbuRtOn Matt Bubb 03 307 6680 / HAmiltOn Greg Barkle 07 858 4851

www.aqualinc.com / www.myirrigation.info

www.guardianonline.co.nz

ADVERTISING FEATURE

31

Demand for quality stays strong “We are still busy, so it pays to plan early” With quality and professionalism at the heart of every project he undertakes, Nigel Hodges of Darfield’s Rural Building Solutions is as busy as ever, even in this turbulent economy. The reason for this is simple, “Our clients are business people and business people do their homework. What our clients are looking for is a quality build, on time, to budget, from a company that does what it says it will.” “We use quality products and strive for the perfect finish. Our service is all inclusive as opposed to these ‘add-ons’, and our clients get a structurally sound, well managed, well priced project, with a good quality finish.”

The majority of Rural Building Solutions’ discerning customers come from repeat business or referrals, with Nigel saying word of mouth is the best advertising he can get. He says the company’s reputation for quality is a result of it building every dairy shed as though it were a ‘show shed.’ Nigel’s

Construction manager Alan Deane and managing director Nigel Hodges.

60 Bail Rotary with Feed pad.

structural concrete experience has come to the fore lately as Rural Building Solutions is building more and more feed pads in Canterbury. “In winter, their benefits really stand out,” Nigel says. “We can offer farmers less pasture pugging, less wasted feed, faster feed out by fewer staff, great control of feed and supplements, and greater run off control.” There is also an option to design your own feed bins, with Rural Building Solutions starting feed bin production in July last year.

“Our feed bins can be cast on

site which cuts out the cost of transport,” Nigel says. “They are adjustable in width so we can make single and double feed bins.” For prospective clients wanting a quality build, Nigel’s advice is to contact Rural Building Solutions at the start of your planning.

“We have limited spaces each year, so talk to us as soon as you start thinking about a new project”.

For more information on Rural Building solutions, visit www.ruralbuilding.co.nz, phone Nigel on 0274 270 557 or Nigel@ruralbuilding.co.nz.

4000m2 Feed pad.

FOR A MORE EFFICIENT FARM DAIRY

Canterbury wide specialists in milking parlour design and construction

Call today for a FREE on-site design consultation Call Nigel Hodges 0274 270 557 Licensee of

www.ruralbuilding.co.nz www.chapmandairy.com

2 32

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

EDUCATION FEATURE

Why boarding school? St Bede’s College

Why should you consider sending your child to boarding school? Wouldn’t he/she do just as well at day school?

This is a common question for parents to ponder as they review their private school options.

You have made the decision to send her/him to private school in principle.

Now it is just a matter of working out the details.

There are many reasons to go to boarding school. The academics, the athletics and the extracurricular activities are just a few of the considerations. But there’s more. Much more.

Here are the 10 top reasons why you should go to boarding school

1. You will get great teachers who love to teach.

2. You will have great sports and sports facilities.

3. You will have great arts programmes and arts facilities.

4. You will get to live away from home.

5. You will be stretched by the amount of academic work you have to do.

6. You will be surrounded by classmates who want to go to college.

7. The libraries/media centres are well-stocked.

8. You will learn to be responsible for yourself.

9. The classes are small.

10. It’s cool to be smart.

These are our top 10 reasons to go to boarding school. You will doubtless think of others. One last bit of advice: don’t put off starting the process of choosing a boarding school to the last minute. You will need at least 18 months before the fall of the year in which you want your child to be in school.

St Bede’s College is the only boys Catholic Boarding school in the South Island. It is proud of its longstanding tradition as a provider of a boarding school education and it welcomes students from throughout New Zealand and overseas. The college can cater for up to 140 boarders, with three dormitories designed for specific groupings.

We have a fully resourced boarding school and our staff are experienced in meeting the needs of students from diverse communities. Our curriculum offers excellent educational, cultural and sporting opportunities and our grounds and facilities are first rate.

The boarders have access to the gymnasium, swimming pool, cricket nets, tennis courts, hockey turf and a performing arts centre.

All students are actively encouraged to participate where possible.

We have two vans to transport students to their commitments out of

school, and a regular bus service just outside the front gates.

The college motto is Fide et Opere (By Faith and Works) and our aim is to produce young men who are hardworking and live their lives by a code of good values and consideration for others.

The College also has six areas of activity that it believes are crucial to the future success and fulfilment of its students.

These are called the six pillars: • Special character • Community • Academic • Cultural • Sport • Boarding We welcome you to the college’s open day on Wednesday, May 11 between 9am – noon. Parents are also welcome to attend a presentation of the college by senior management at 7.30pm that evening.

THINKING BOARDING, THINK MEDBURY You are invited to attend the

MEDBURY SCHOOL OPEN DAY Monday 9 May 9.00am - 11.30am

Academic, Boarding & Music Scholarships available for 2017 For more information contact Tanya Moore (Headmaster’s PA) on 03 351 6169

109 Clyde Road, Christchurch | office@medbury.school.nz | www.medbury.school.nz Ashburton Guardian April Educational Feature 2016.indd 1

7/04/16 4:08 pm

www.guardianonline.co.nz

EDUCATION FEATURE

Well equipped for the world

Developing each boy’s potential

Girls at Waitaki Girls’ High School are very proud of their school.

The school’s values are based on developing learners who are respectful, responsible and resilient.

Our boarding hostel provides a “home away from home” for girls who need it and is a pleasant and well maintained facility. The senior wing was recently refurbished and Year 13 girls have the opportunity for more independent living preparing them for the transition to the wider world after school.

Research shows that girls learn better in a girls’ school. Girls take on all the leadership roles and support and mentor the younger students. We have over 50 clubs including many varieties of sport, cultural activities and service groups.

Nestled in the heart of beautiful and historic Oamaru, we have strong links

Waitaki Boys’ is one of New Zealand’s high achieving state boys’. Our boys work hard - and play hard. Sporting achievement is also high, in a variety of sports. Many boys also act or sing: the true Waitakian is an all-rounder.

For us, character development is as important as academic achievement.

With a roll of 500 we are large enough to offer an extensive academic and vocational curriculum and cocurricular programme but small enough to know each boy well and recognise his character and needs. We understand boys. Our primary task is to identify and develop each boy’s potential.

Our hostel (Don House) is a vital arm of the school. Like the school, it is friendly and purposeful. Parents often note how the confidence and self-discipline of their son develops with exposure to the routines, responsibilities and traditions of hostel life. Boys learn what it means to live in a community and to get on well with others. After school, hostel boys benefit from facilities such as the gym, library, music suite, auditorium and computer rooms. Many hostel boys participate in our extensive school agriculture programme, which includes

with the community.

We offer a strong curriculum programme that promotes excellence and striving to reach one’s potential.

This is evidenced by our excellent NCEA results which are above the national average at all levels. We are interested in the whole person – excellence of character as well as academic ability and this is mirrored in the many student well-being programmes we offer at all year levels.

A Waitaki Girls’ learner is equipped to take her place in the world after school. We welcome your consideration of Waitaki Girls’ High School as a learning community that will allow your daughter to thrive. Please visit our website www.waitakigirlshigh.school.nz. Tours for inspection of the school and hostel leave the school hall at 11am and 7pm on May 31, 2016.

Waitaki Girls' High School Waitaki House (Boarding)

Young Women Well Equipped for the World

Open Day Tuesday May 31st 2016, tours around Waitaki Girls’ High School and Waitaki House (boarding) 11am and 7pm Enquiries welcome for day and boarding places. We welcome your inspection of our learning community that will allow your daughter to thrive.

weekend ITO courses and activities organised by the Young Farmers’ Club.

The Hostel Hunting & Fishing Club is very popular.

Over 30 sports are available at the school, we are very proud of our achievements in sport. For a small school we punch well above our weight on a regional and national level.

“

Boys learn what it means to live in a comuunity

Most hostel boys play several sports during the school year. During winter there are snowboarding/skiing trips some weekends, as well as trips to watch Highlanders games in Dunedin.

Graduates of Waitaki Boys’ High School include 18 Knights, 13 All Blacks, eight cabinet ministers, a Governor General and some of New Zealand’s leading cultural figures.

More importantly, many thousands of average boys have also graduated from Waitaki as confident, selfmotivated and well-rounded young men ready to take their place in the world.

Waitaki Boys’High School & Don House

Enriched by the Past

Student Pride Self Discipline Caring Hostel Traditional values Agricultural Boarding School of Choice

Contact our Principal Ms Tracy Walker Email: twalker@waitakigirlshigh.school.nz | Phone: 03 434 8429 Visit our website: www.waitakigirlshigh.school.nz

33

Ph 03 437 0529 www.waitakibhs.school.nz

Prepared

for the Future!

2 34

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

EDUCATION FEATURE

The best for boys New to ‘Nu Zild’?

Otago Boys’ High School is best for boys. The opportunities in academic, cultural and sporting fields encourage all young men to excel.

Our hostel is an integral part of the culture of our school and has provided a home to boys from the lower South Island region and further afield since 1871.

Being part of our boarding community will provide your son not only with the support to achieve academically, but to gain great social skills as well, learning how to function effectively in the community, to get

along with others and to practice respect, courtesy and co-operation.

Respect and politeness with positive reinforcement along with a compassionate discipline structure will provide the backbone to hostel life, while social events and extracurricular activities and will provide a gratifying, stimulating atmosphere.

Your son will emerge from school house as a polite young man of integrity and character, inspired academically, socially and physically, prepared to face the next chapter of his life.

Otago Boys’ High School House

COUNTRY VISITS WEDNESDAY 13TH APRIL

Jason and Ann-Marie Ryan - 7:30pm 51 Ludlow Lake Drive, LAKE HOOD

Parents of prospective boarding students 2017 or future years are warmly invited to attend one of the following country visits to meet with Mr Richard Hall, OBHS Rector and Mr Paul Vlietstra, OBHS Hostel Manager.

You are encouraged to bring your son with you to the presentation. Parents of current boarders are also most welcome to attend.

Refreshments will be provided and we look forward to the opportunity to meet with you and answer any questions you may have.

Phone: 03 477 5527

Why don’t you go flat out, sit down with a cuppa and take a squiz at our mean as list of Kiwi slang. No worries bro if it looks a bit munted, she’ll be right, it’s just the way Kiwis talk in En Zed. After reading this, blow me down if you won’t be stoked when it comes to speaking here. But don’t go half pie, go all out eh, and earn yourself some Maori roast, a handle or some hokey pokey.

New Zealand has always been a nation with an eclectic mix of people and nationalities, and this mixing pot of cultures has led to the country developing its own particular way of speaking. Some researchers have suggested that the spoken language of New Zealand is independent enough to warrant being called a separate dialect of English. Naturally New Zealanders have come to develop their own brand of slang, which is seen as

commonplace to those in the country, while being exotic and potentially baffling to everyone else.

New Zealand’s agricultural beginnings are a strong and everpresent influence on kiwi slang and everyday language. As a large portion of the country’s first European inhabitants were involved in farming, it was natural for certain terms to spread throughout all of society. In present day New Zealand, it is still common to hear agricultural terms being applied in everyday situations.

New Zealand’s unique use of words and kiwi slang has come to be a particular curiosity around the world, both for its unique blend of English familiarity and its “antipodes” twist.

If you or anyone you know requires assistance in learning common NZ English the Ashburton Learning Centre can help.

How ya doin’ mate?

Kia ora, Bro

Ashburton Learning Centre Your path to a new future

Individual assistance at our centre for adults with reading, writing and math’s difficulties.

We offer: • English classes for migrant workers specifically tailored to the farm environment they work on including common kiwi slang.

• Assistance gaining on farm qualifications.

• Classes catering to understand the new health and safety laws for both employees and employers.

Phone 308 5322 Corner Park & Havelock Street, Ashburton (old St Joseph’s School building) adult.literacy@xtra.co.nz

www.guardianonline.co.nz

35

Locking stifles and slow eating What do locking stifles and slow eating have in common?

Not to mention hitching a leg, staggers, tripping, stumbling, and knuckling over!

The answer is muscle weakness; a common consequence of disruptions to critical mineral ratios in the blood. They are dietary in origin and seriously affect the normal functioning of nerves and muscles.

It takes good, strong muscles that are functioning perfectly to keep the muscle tone necessary for the stifle ligament to stay in exactly the right place, to operate the jaw for chewing and for the horse’s limbs to be able to co-ordinate so as not to fall over!

It is easy to see how impaction colic could fall into this category because the entire digestive tract is made of smooth muscle which needs to contract efficiently in order to shunt the food mass through. Correct chemistry is vital for correct muscle function and this means correct mineral ratios need to be maintained.

Jenny Paterson

BSC ZOOLOGY AND BIOLOGY

The first signs of muscle weakness might be as subtle as stumbling over nothing, being unable to track up and/or an unwillingness to really move out – both can mistakenly be put down to laziness. Signs can also be asymmetrical (feels like the wheels aren’t balanced) and your first thought might be to call your therapist. However the fix may be as simple as adjusting the diet.

There are feeds and supplements that make it harder for your horse to maintain correct mineral ratios and there are those that make it much easier. Go to www.calmhealthyhorses.com and read the Current Diet Review.

We have come a long way

Lochy had a tendency to fall over, had lost his ability to jump, had difficulty maintaining his balance in the float and was a very slow eater. Not any more!

over recent years with our product formulations which, in conjunction with being mindful of potassium intake are solving more and more of the frustrating issues many horse owners experience, especially in

autumn, which can be equally as problematic for horses prone to being grass-affected as early spring.

If you have never seen a locking stifle in action go to FB Calm Healthy Horses Page and take a look at the post

on March 10. It is a video of Memento who was affected in both hind legs. Veterinary advice was that “he would grow out of it eventually”, but after only five days on AlleviateC SOS he was completely back to normal.

Provide it TM

Payout Adjusted Pricing Get all-round pasture growth from an all-natural slow release NPK fertiliser Supply | Cartage | Spreading with Proof of Placement

“Call the chicken litter specialists now to hear about our cost effective options”

P: 03 349 2411 | 0800 NPK NOW Email: info@poulfert.co.nz www.poulfert.co.nz

2 36

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

HUNTING FEATURE

Pig hunting the sport of kings

By Bill Westwood

than being on the hill first thing in the morning as the sun starts to rise up with the bird life singing their beautiful songs along with our mates, the dogs. No shops out here, if we want a drink we only need to go to the nearest creek.

We get to see so many other animals as well from the bigger animals like the deer, cows and sheep then there are the smaller animals like the possums, rabbits and hedgehogs.

Every animal possesses a different situation for a dog so a hunter has to know how to work with each young dog to teach them what to hunt and also what not to hunt as we don’t want a dog chasing after the wrong animal when they should be hunting out that big boar that every pig hunter wants to catch.

Once a hunter has caught that boar

that they have been looking for then the hard work starts of carrying the boar out. This is why we do not see many overweight pig hunters, as a sport it keeps you very fit.

When I first got into pig hunting I believed that the bigger and stronger the dog the more chance I had of catching a pig, so for my first three years I ran hard dogs that would hold most of the pigs that I caught.

The more I got to learn about both the pigs and dogs I could see more of how a dog can work a pig to convince it to stand and stay in one place while the dog barks at it (bailing) as opposed to a dog holding a pig. Because my addiction has been going on for so long now I have set up a block to help other hunters with the training of their dogs where we can

take a dog into a large gully to bail a big boar, all dogs are wearing muzzles so that no animal gets harmed and the dog has to learn not to go in and break the boar.

To understand about getting a dog to stop a boar we only need to look at sheep dogs. A huntaway is bred to move stock away whereas a heading dog is bred to bring sheep back to us. Now if we have a pig dog that wants to chase a pig away we are not going to catch many pigs with this mind-set.

A dog that wants to attack a boar just makes their job harder as a worked up boar can do a lot of damage to a dog with their tusks. The best option is to have a dog that gets the boar to focus its attention onto the dog trying to keep the aggression to a minimum as to not work

” ! y d o o W “The HUNT PIG & DEER

2016

While pig hunting is a mainly male dominated sport there are a number of keen successful women pig hunters competing well. Myself I got hooked into the sport in 1990 and have found it to be a very addictive sport.

As for the general public they look at only one aspect of the sport, the kill of a pig but this is a very small part of pig hunting. If we look at every dog owner they know what it is like to gain a loving bond with their dog.

For a pig hunter we have more dogs than the average person which allows us to learn more as every dog is different.

Just like children that have different personalities, dogs are also different as we see shy dogs, timid dogs, confident dogs and aggressive dogs.

Also, like children, dogs are a product of their environment and that environment comes down to the person responsible for the dog.

We, as people all have different ways of reacting to certain situations and this is what makes the biggest difference in our dogs.

Pig hunters spend a lot of time on the hill with their dogs so they get to learn a lot about them. When out hunting with our dogs we get to see some amazing back country that most people do not get to see and there is nothing better

MAJOR SPOT PRIZES – PLAN YOUR HUNTING TRIP NOW

• Heaviest • 2nd Heaviest • 3rd Heaviest • Average Weight • Best Head

• Heaviest • 2nd Heaviest • 3rd Heaviest • Heaviest • 2nd Heaviest • 3rd Heaviest

KIDS

9 YEARS& UNDER SPONSORED BY MARLBOUROUGH HUNTING & FISHING

HARE / RABBIT / POSSUM

TEENS 10 TO 17 YEARS ONE animal only

PIG

OPEN 18 YEARS & OVER includes TWO animals • Heaviest • 2nd Heaviest • 3rd Heaviest • Average Weight • Best Tusks

DEER

DEER

PIG

• $500 cash • 2x Skinning knives • Camping packs from Hunting and fishing • Loads of goodies from PGG Wrightson and Farmlands • 4x ANZ bags with voucher and clothing

• Heaviest • 2nd Heaviest • 3rd Heaviest

JUNE 3–5 QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY WEEKEND

WEIGH IN SUNDAY JUNE 5 – 1PM ‘till 3pm

PRIZE GIVING 4.30PM | LIVE MUSIC FROM 7PM T AVER N & M OTELS You are always welcome at “The Woody!”

80 High Street, Renwick, Marlborough Phone 03 572 8007 info@woodbournetavern.co.nz www.woodbournetavern.co.nz

www.guardianonline.co.nz

HUNTING FEATURE

37

Smith Attachments Ute Lids, Ute Deck, Utility Boxes UPCOMING COMPETITIONS April 22-24th

Cromwell

29-31st July

Lincoln

April 22-24th

Hororata

5-7th August

Oamaru

May 19-21st

Greta valley

12-14th August Parnassus/Cheviot

May 27-29th

Ashley

21-23rd October Waiau

1-3rd July

Rotherham

22-24th

8-10th July

Winchester

the boar up too much. This way they are not focused on running away so the hunter has got time to sneak in to take the boar out.

Pig hunting competitions are run the length of New Zealand over the winter months and this is a good chance for hunters to be able to catch up. There are a number of reasons why they are only during the winter months.

Pigs make more damage of the pastures at this time of the year and also the weather is a lot cooler which affects how the pigs’ scent hangs around. In warm weather scent disappears quicker and the pigs do not move around as much in the hot weather.

Dogs can also die of heat exhaustion on a hot day as they work so hard to stop these big boars. Some forest

Chatto creek

companies close access over the summer months because of fire risk.

Near the end of winter farmers limit access when they start lambing which can limit the places hunters have to go.

Some of the hunting competitions can have over 100 boars weighed in which keeps the judges very busy on the day.

There is a lot of work goes in to organising a competition with getting sponsorship for prizes and a venue sorted out along with enough helpers on the day.

Ridgeline are big supporters of competitions throughout New Zealand of which I run the team of helpers in the South Island. We can help take the pressure off the main organisers on the day of their competition. For more info go to my website www.pighunt.co.nz.

Have you heard that we now make ute lids, ute decks and utility boxes?

Our fabrication and engineering departments are well known for meeting the requirements of the customer, from production runs to one-off custom builds.

We can work with a range of aluminium, mild steel, stainless, zinc and galvanised materials.

Over 40 years we have built our brand into a household name in the agricultural sector, initially making carriers, handlebar protectors and side carts for two-wheeled motorbikes, as well as a range of ATV trailers to be towed behind two and three-wheelers.

These products are still manufactured today, along with ATV bullbars and accessories for two and four-wheeled bikes. Our ATV trailer range has increased to meet the demand for

dairying by making a range of custom built calf trailers.

“

Over 40 years we have built our brand into a household name

We are now expanding into the commercial sector throughout the South Island with the addition of our ute accessories, using the same precision quality that we provide in our ATV bullbars and trailers.

Check out our website www.smithattachments.co.nz or give us a call today on 0508 805 801 / 03 3089040.

Keeping your farm vehicles working

TRACTORS

HARVEST EQUIPMENT

IRRIGATORS

Neumanns Tyres will attend to your tyre requirements anywhere and anytime in Mid Canterbury

197 Wills St, Ashburton Ph 308 6737 www.neumannstyres.co.nz

• Prompt and efficient service • Very experienced technicians • Competitive price • 24 hour service (After hours callout applies)

2 38

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

HUNTING FEATURE

Shooters warm up for the season Outdoor Adventure Sports in Ashburton are hosting two duck shooters days. The first is at the Ashburton Clay Target club on Sunday, April 17. starting at 10am. Great prizes to be won by all shooters including a semi automatic shot gun. The second is at the Mead Te-Pirita gun club on Sunday, May 1 again starting at 10am and prizes for all the shooters.

Outdoor Adventure Sports have a massive range of duck decoys, callers, shot guns and motion decoys in stock now plus a huge range of steel ammunition from Federal, Blackcloud, Winchester, Gamebore and Falcon. Also in store they have bags of duck food 25kg for just $7.50. They also have for hire an automatic clay thrower for $75.00 per day or $100.00 for the weekend.

Check out our latest range of new seasons Stoney Creek clothing and accessories for children and adults also remember the Ridgeline duck ‘n’ roar mailer full of super deals.

Remember get into Outdoor Adventure Sports East Street Ashburton for all your duck shooting supplies.

SHOT GUNS

Browning A5 . . . . . . . .

Benelli M2 12g, semi . . .

Browning Silver 12g, semi Gersan 12g, semi, camo .

ATA 20g semi . . . . . . .

Churchill 12g, semi . . . .

Escort pump, 12g . . . . .

. . . . . . .

STEEL AMMO

Federal Black Cloud . . . .

Federal Blue Box 3” . . . .

Game Bore 3” . . . . . . . .

Winchester 3” . . . . . . . .

Game Bore 2 3/4” 1560FPS. Falcon 2 3/4 1520FPS . . . .

. . . . . . .

. . . . . . .

. . . . . . .

. . . . . . .

$2295 $2199 $1795 $999 .$999 $729 .$729 $649 .$649 $399 .$399

. from $29.90 . from $26.90 . from $21.90 . from $17.90 . . . . $15.90 . . . . $15.90

DUCK DECOYS

KIDS’ STONEY CREEK 365 TECH HOODIE

$59

.99

NEW

CAMLITE BOOT Was

$239

.99

MALLARD JACKET AND PANTS Was Was $219.99 $154.99

NOW

$124

.99

NOW

$89.9

9

DELUGE ANORAK

SAVE $180 Was

FROM

$329.99

9 $PER6DOZEN

.90

NOW

$149

.95

NOW

9 $149.9

519 East Street, Ashburton - Phone: 03 308 2493

www.guardianonline.co.nz

HUNTING FEATURE

39

You guys saved me, no doubt about that...

Woke up to clouds but no rain and set off from the Top Forks Hut. Hike up to waterfall face was a steep one.

Ascent over the face was okay but some parts you’d try but come back down to try again from a different direction. I eventually got over the face and into the upper valley of Rabbit Pass.

A breezy walk to what turned into a disaster. I got to a saddle and based off the description of visual landmarks, the marker at the top of the saddle and no mention of another route branching off the Rabbit Route, I took this valley as the Rabbit Pass Valley.

This was incorrect. I started down the valley and while my compass was telling me one thing, the map and route description were telling me another. In the end I followed the latter and ended up deep in the mountains, forcing my way down “Pearson” Valley to a river I believed would lead down to Junction Flat, but it ended up taking me to the back of Mt Aspiring.

The terrain became

increasingly difficult until I had literally trapped myself in a ravine with no way out but forward. Based on my situation and a growing bad feeling, I knew that to continue forward would severely increase my risk of injury or worse.

I then set off my locator

beacon for SAR to save me from myself. I spent the night in the ravine during a storm which delayed the rescue until the morning the following day. SAR flew up the valley and after spotting me, landed, broke out the ropes and got me out of there in no time.

Obviously my pride was

WHAT ARE YOUR OPTIONS IN AN EMERGENCY? SPECIAL

SVT ResQLink PLB – 375

Only $499

including P&P and includes free gifts with purchase

COVER ALL YOUR BASES Now available in 41 outlets Available for sale/hire

$15 - 1 day $30 - 3 days $40 - 7 days $30 for every week after your first week of hire

Ask us for current specials. We’ll always look after you Ph (03) 226-6341or (027) 412-2925 www.locatorbeacons.co.nz

humbled by having to set off the beacon, but only up until I saw where on the map I was and where I was going. I was getting into deeper trouble every step, attempting to push onwards. Without any doubt, had I not had that locator beacon, I would have ended up miles away from any trail,

AFFORDABLE HUNTING GEAR

beyond any hope of being spotted by SAR. To the boys at SAR, thanks for saving me.

And to anyone looking to tramp in unfamiliar terrain, bring a locator beacon, don’t think twice about it.

Client testomnial, Southland Locator Beacons

FREE SHIPPING AVAILABLE WEB CODE: ASHBURTON

• Trail/security camera

• Dog training collars

• Dog first aid

• Knives plus more

• Rip vests

• Clothing

P 0800 4 HOGDOGS E sales@hogdogs.co.nz

www.hogdogs.co.nz

Irrigation Pump Sheds/Storage

These sheds are made to be easy to install with the middle piece of roof iron having been left off for easy Hiab onto your concrete pad. A 50mm overhang has been allowed to fit over your concrete pad so that you have no leaks.

There is hex bird netting over the ventilation gap across the front. Made from quality H3 90x45 framing timber and finished with either zincalume or your choice of colorsteel.

Sheds can be made standard or to your individual requirements.

All sheds are made to order and individually priced - large & small we make them all!

Adams Sawmilling Co Ltd ISPM 15 accredited for Export Pallets

Malcolm McDowell Drive, Ashburton Ph (03) 308 3595 Fax (03) 308 5649

We build for industries.

Starting with the primary ones.

At Calder Stewart we’ve never forgotten where we

build - matched to your exact farming needs.

started, building quality farm buildings for the Kiwi

We pride ourselves at being a Rural Design &

farm industry. And over the course of the last 55

Build specialist and have gained a considerable

years of involvement, we’ve developed something

reputation in meeting the needs of many a farmer

of a knack for it. Our dedicated team’s expertise

over the years. Let us put our expertise to work for

in constructing custom woolsheds, covered yards,

you; call your nearest Calder Stewart Construction

wintering sheds and state-of-the-art dairy sheds

Representative today and see how we can deliver

ensures practicality, quality and a professional

a farm building that suits.

Over 55 Years Farm Building Experience A Rural Design and Build Specialist Premium Grade Construction Materials Used Durable & Rugged Design is Standard Best Value-for-Money in the Industry

Donald Sutton 211 Alford Forest Road, Ashburton

(03) 307 6130

To learn more visit our website:

COMMERCIAL•INDUSTRIAL•RURAL

www.calderstewart.co.nz