Guardian Farming - February 2016

Farming GUARDIAN

FEBRUARY, 2016

Animal

welfare HOW DO WE FIND MIDDLE GROUND? Pages 3-10

2

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

COMMENT FROM EDITOR

INDEX SAFE, WELFARE AND MIDDLE GROUND

P3

MEAT INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

P6

MINISTER RESPONDS - GUY ON ANIMAL WELFARE

P9

THE FACE OF THE NEW CONSUMER

P10

NEW ZEALAND NEWS BRIEFS

P11

INTERNATIONAL NEWS BRIEFS

P13

TAVENDALE AND PARTNERS - ANIMAL WELFARE

P22

CONTACTS We appreciate your feedback.

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

Advertising Email chloe.h@theguardian.co.nz or phone 03 307 7907.

Post Ashburton Guardian, PO Box 77, Ashburton.

Consumer trends are sympathy and growing changing quicker than activists outside its ranks. ever before and we, as the Although difficult to get primary sector, must move him to commit to a middle with them or risk being ground forward, he did left behind. concede that his talks with Nadine RURAL And although much Fonterra and Dairy NZ Porter EDITOR of what animal welfare over the bobby calf issue Tweet us @farmjourno activists are preaching had been productive. is radical and outside Regular discussions mainstream thinking, they would be a positive way have, like a magnet, dragged a generation forward between the groups but trust has of younger consumers with them. to be gained first. For our bodies to sit These consumers are educated, young down at the table they need to know that and informed on a global level. They are Mr Kriek will commit to seeing it through moralistic, but realistic that livestock and won’t run off to media before an issue farming is here to stay. has been dealt with.

These younger consumers are not This certainly didn’t happen recently. seeking to destroy New Zealand livestock The advertisement he took out in the UK farming, but rather they are making their appeared after Dairy NZ and Fonterra had choices quietly, within the confines of our reached out to sort out the abuse issue. supermarkets. They don’t hold the power They were as horrified by the footage as yet, but once the baby boomers die off and anyone and sought to remedy it so imagine as those with a higher discretionary spend their surprise to find that the man who was begin to join them, they will. going to sit down with them had already And will we be there to meet them? Will published his agenda overseas before we have adapted our industry so at least hearing or seeing their response. some portion of it is serving their needs?

One thing is certain – a monumental shift They perceive synthetic meat, with its has happened among you – the farmers. vegetable base, as being a humane way You have never had a louder voice than of eating. It’s fascinating, but at the same when you took to social media to express time a little frightening. As irritating as your outrage at what occurred.

Safe’s CEO Hans Kriek might be to the You found your voice and in essence won ears of anyone in primary industries, the the battle for people’s hearts and more man and his organsiation have 30,000 importantly reached out and found that paid-up sponsors and a heck of a lot more golden middle ground.

The place where farmers get their quality agricultural replacement parts and equipment Arable Plough Parts

Points to suit Overum

Shares to suit Lemken

Points to suit Vogel & Noot

Shares to suit Vogel & Noot

Points to suit Kverneland

Trashboard to suit Kverneland

Points to suit Kuhn

Parts to suit Overum

Reversable Points to suit Lemken

Shares to suit Kuhn

Shares to suit Kverneland

Dale Shares

Knife Coulter to suit Lemken

Points to suit Gregoire Besson

Wings to suit Simba

Cultivation Parts

Points to suit Sunflower & Salford

Points to suit Vibroflex

Cast Points

Points to suit Clough

Slipdown Points

Pan Buster Points

Legs to suit Vibroflex

Legs to suit Vibroflex

S Tines

Coil Tines

Rexius Point to suit Vaderstad

Points to suit Goliath

Yeoman Clamp

Coil Tine Clamp

50 mm Topdown Points

Springs to suit Goliath

Points to suit Maxitill

Springs to suit Vibroflex

Point to suit Berends

Shares to suit Dowdeswell

Landside wear plates to suit Kverneland

Plough Share Rebuilds

Plough discs

Harvest Parts Crop Lifters Bolt On, Clip On, Floating, Windrower

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

ANIMAL WELFARE

Finding a middle ground There is one common denominator between the livestock agricultural sector of New Zealand and the animal welfare activists who can’t stomach the systems farmers are making their livelihoods from – distrust. With both sides firing salvos and emotive footage dividing consumers and causing further mistrust Nadine Porter investigates how to find the middle ground and a constructive way forward for both sides.

Safe’s main man used overseas advertising as a symbolic gesture to get the desired industry reaction when bobby calf abuse was aired on television. Nadine Porter asks him about his motives, and how industry and animal welfare groups can meet in the middle.

Hans Kreik is a smart man.

Frustrated at complaints surrounding animal welfare in the dairy industry being ignored, his animal rights organisation Safe aired footage to New Zealand that created a maelstrom of controversy and left the dairy industry open to criticism.

He does not regret his actions, nor the famous advertisement published in The Guardian in the United Kingdom, deriding the industry.

A “symbolic gesture” and “strong message”, Hans had long ago worked out to get the industry to react you must threaten their international markets.

OPEN

EK

S / WE Y A D 5

Safe CEO Hans Kriek - ‘welfare of bobby calves must be top notch’

“Remember when dairy farmer’s in Chile were found to be bashing calves?

The New Zealand Government banned the practice but only because overseas media decided to act. Based on that, we go to the overseas customer so that we can get action here.”

Whether his campaign was fair is another matter, but what couldn’t be ignored was the horrifying footage that shocked New Zealand and its farmers and outlined animal welfare’s importance as a vital and increasingly complex part of the social licence to farm.

Although the footage didn’t implicate dairy farmers themselves,

(carriers of bobby calves and abattoirs were highlighted) it did begin a conversation around the ethics of the entire industry and has sparked intense discussions ever since.

For Hans it has been a difficult few months – at first frustrating with death threats aplenty, but now there appears to be optimism from the man who has dedicated his life to protecting animals.

The former SPCA inspector knows philosophically that there can never be a middle ground when it comes to Safe and New Zealand’s livestock industry.

Continued P4

House of Hearing CLINIC Ashburton Blenheim Fendalton Halswell Papanui Rangiora

100% NZ Owned & Operated

PHONE 03 307 8949 03 579 5353 03 351 3535 03 322 4326 0800 333 606 03 310 7355

2 4

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

ANIMAL WELFARE From P3 Prime Minister John Key even went as far as His organisation is opposed to any livestock to describe it as “a form of economic sabotage” farming, and insist all that work for them are – a claim Hans dismisses as “nonsense”. vegans, but he is realistic that for the moment “What happened? Did the dairy industry his job lies around helping those animals to live collapse after the ad? Did people stop buying a better life while on farm. the product? The message was not for the Based on the reaction from New Zealand overseas audience. It was for here – a strong farmers, Hans is not alone. Mortified by what message that something needs to be done here they saw, farmers engaged and we will not be ignored.” with social media in a way they Safe wanted to demonstrate Safe never have before to express the ability it had to speak their outrage at the rogues globally to customers – and wanted to in the industry committing effectively the strategy demonstrate heinous acts. worked, he said.

It was a watershed for the So will this herald a new the ability it farming industry, who learnt era of blackmail from the the power of social media, organisation? had to speak and helped to turn the public “I hope not. Hopefully next globally to tide of resentment against season, if we investigate, we an industry many perceive will find nothing going on. customers as tainted. Hans accepts this If we stop these bull calves and has always attempted being thrown around like to publically verbalise his sacks of potatoes that will be opinion that generally dairy farmers are a an achievement. This is something we and the compassionate bunch, who strive to attain industry can agree on.” great welfare standards.

That question of finding common ground “I totally accept that most farmers don’t set has partially been met by ongoing meetings out to deliberately be cruel to their animals.

Safe has been involved in with Dairy NZ, Having said that I do think the problems Fonterra and MPI. Although the meetings are more widespread in the industry than is have been positive, Hans believes their true acknowledged publicly.” success can only be measured by actions Over four million people have now viewed undertaken.

Safe’s footage of the bobby calves on their “They have been constructive meetings… website and international media picked while we disagree with industry leaders on the up the story long before the controversial ethics of practice and understand there is little advertisement slating the industry was we can do about that, we have worked at where published. we can agree and what we can look at.”

“

The advertisement Safe used to push the dairy industry into action.

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

www.guardianonline.co.nz

5

ANIMAL WELFARE The dairy industry was genuine, he believed, in trying to enforce monitoring and standards of welfare surrounding bobby calves. But what if they can’t get on top of it? he asks.

“It’s a big industry and they can wear one advertisement but what if there’s another one? If we see cruelty that’s not being dealt with it’s our right to expose it.”

He has one message to all farmers – if you’re proud of what you’re doing, show it.

“The primary industry has to be honest about what they are doing and show they have nothing to hide.

But right now when the media asks to look at a farm, the farmer says no.

As an activist we are told all the time how good welfare standards are in the industry but the moment we get cameras inside it is not representative of what they are saying.”

The frustration is long standing.

Twenty-eight years ago when Hans was an SPCA inspector in the North Island one of his largest tasks was to follow bobby calf trucks because of the “awful treatment” of the animals.

That we are still talking about this issue 28 years later is an indictment on the industry, he believes, and the lack of serious intention to stamp out bad practices.

It all adds to a negative perception of the dairy industry among the wider public, he says.

FINDING MIDDLE GROUND - SAFE’S VIEW ■ ■ ■ ■

Prime Minister John Key was quick to label Safe’s actions as “economic sabotage”

“I have been shocked at how many people have a very negative view of dairy farming in general. They are almost seen as the mafia of the farming world and sometimes that’s unfair but …”

While the bobby calf abuse was the main focus of footage released by Safe, Hans and his team also utilised coverage to bring a discussion forward on the treatment of calves while on farm, and in particular the practice of

■

Don’t ignore complaints/act promptly Regular industry and animal welfare group meetings Animal welfare body outside of MPI with ability to enforce Farmers and industry need to be transparent and open to showing their good welfare stories If cruelty is not dealt with SAFE reserves the right to expose it and highlight it overseas

taking calves off cows at four days old.

“While farmers themselves are not cruel, if you take an unbiased view the practice of dairy farming itself is cruel.”

But Hans sees no solution to the problem.

“So if this has to happen, the welfare of the calves while on farms must be top notch.”

Ultimately he’s calling for a standalone animal welfare body outside of

the Ministry of Primary Industries because of what he perceives to be a conflict of interest.

“We have evidence that when MPI inspectors were alerted to complaints on farm, they would ring the farmer and schedule an appointment to see them the next week. I met with them recently and they said they were going to stop doing it …”

While the Animal Welfare Act was good he had issues over the enforcement of the code stating animals must be able to express their normal behaviours.

“The question is how can we have legislation but still have chickens in cages or cows in indoor barns on concrete?”

For Hans the dairy industry’s problems were perhaps most clearly enunciated by a dairy farmer who rang him recently. The man had left the industry after 25 years because he was “sick and tired of where the industry was heading”.

“He blamed the corporatisation of farming where managers have a degree but no practical skills and workers are hired from countries with no ethics around animal welfare. The bottom line was the only thing that mattered.”

And it’s that social licence that Hans wants to work with industry on going forward to ensure a good outcome and ultimately excellent animal welfare for all.

Call the team to tend to all your rural electrical needs

HARVEST ESSENTIALS AVAILABLE NOW 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.

GRAIN SILOS • STIRRERS AERATION • AUGERS NATIONAL SALES

HAMILTON • RAKAIA • INVERCARGILL 0800 474 567 • www.relgroup.co.nz

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

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)

Farming

2 6

www.guardianonline.co.nz

ANIMAL WELFARE

Ethical consumers should not be ignored

BY NADINE PORTER For a man charged with heading up New Zealand’s meat processors, marketers and processors Tim Ritchie has a surprisingly moderate view of today’s consumers and the ethical concerns they have around our farming practices.

Intelligent, informed and ever conducive to improving animal welfare standards, Tim Ritchie, the CEO of the New Zealand Meat Industry Association has no quarrel with those consumers wanting to know the animal they are purchasing has been treated humanely.

“There is no doubt about it. In today’s world, ethical matters are increasingly important in the minds of consumers.”

Our industry would be foolish to ignore this growing consumer base, he says. But the dilemma lies in handling those at the more extreme end of the equation.

“In terms of our sectors, especially the sheep, beef and venison, they are premium products and not industrial products like pork and poultry but we’ve got to do all we can to keep at the premium end of the market

The rural-urban divide is growing and is a great dilemma, according to Meat Industry Association CEO Tim Ritchie.

because that’s the only way we will have a competitive and profitable industry.”

But the growing perception of an over-riding cruelty in the dairy industry in its practice of separating bobby calves from their mothers and the heralding of synthetic beef as a replacement by young activists is a far different proposition.

“I guess one of the great dilemmas that we all face these days is that there is much more of a rural-urban divide –

a disconnect as to what goes on at the farmgate.” Today’s consumers have moved away from the older purchasing experience where meat was purchased at butcher shops and customers could view the animal on a hook and look on as a cut was dissected.

That naturalised experience differs greatly to that of the supermarket consumer today who buys nicely packaged cuts, not ever seeing the carcass in its entirety and often, more alarmingly, not knowing the story behind how that animal was farmed.

“In the old days it was part of a butcher’s patter to break down an animal in front of you. There was more of a connection in a sense because agriculture was even more important to the economy than it is now.”

One of the biggest challenges we face today, he says, lies among the many consumers not understanding how a product like a rack or loin of lamb derives from an animal.

“And to some people that might not be a nice thought. They think of lamb as being a nice fluffy animal.”

Coupled with that lack of basic knowledge about the animal they are buying, consumers are also taking

a moral high-ground but are not necessarily prepared to pay for it.

“We all take a moral position publicly but when it actually comes to at the till and on the supermarket shelf sometimes, I imagine we compromise.

Having said that, there are parts of the world where people are prepared to pay more.”

So how do we bridge the ever growing divide between the farmers and consumers?

Education remains an important part a complex problem, he says.

“Consumers need to understand that in this life there is nothing for nothing.

You can’t just flick your fingers and say there is a lamb loin.”

Continuing to ensure we have a good regulatory system around animal welfare is just as important, he says.

“But we are human…short of regulation to the extent that each and every bit of the process is highly regulated, which would make it totally uneconomic, you’ve got to rely on people. I don’t know what the answer is but we just have to make sure we have a good regulatory system that puts checks and balances in with significant consequences for those that don’t adhere to it.”

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*

*Conditions apply

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

SECOND HAND EQUIPMENT

ON

LY

$20

M

FRO

Ratchet Tie downs 9m

Safa Toolboxes.

Range: small to large.

$30

Some are seconds.

ON $49 LY .90

M

FRO

$3

CH

EA

Teague Vee rake tines

Drill tube rubber For seed liner drills - 3m length

Aitchison 1116 Drill. . . . . . . . . .

Austin Roller Rings 660 x 75, Heavy .

Buckrake 3.4 metres wide . . . . . .

Clough 3m Maxi Till . . . . . . . . .

Duncan 800 3pth Discs . . . . . . .

Duncan 14ft Maxi Till . . . . . . . . .

Hooper 3m Maxi Till . . . . . . . . .

Lely Lotus Hayrake. . . . . . . . . .

Masicho 1.25m Rotary Hoe as new .

Rushton Post driver . . . . . . . . .

Rata Soft Hands as new . . . . . . .

Taarup 205 Disc Mower . . . . . . .

Trimax 3 metre topper . . . . . . . .

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

All prices exclude G.S.T

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

. $5500 . . $85 . $POA . $2200 . $3000 . $2500 . $3450 . SOLD . $4500 . $1000 . $3400 . $3500 . $5500

www.guardianonline.co.nz

7

ANIMAL WELFARE

MITRE 10 TRADE

FARM BUILDINGS FARM BUILDINGS DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY TO MEET YOUR NEEDS

Although there will always be naysayers we need to continue to demonstrate our regulations have been based on good science and we are working safely and sensibly.

“I think you always try to show consumers more. And if the likes of animal welfare groups don’t want to listen, at least you know you’ve done that.”

It’s also a matter of taking action promptly, he says.

“It’s not a position of sitting back and waiting three or four months although the legal process necessarily requires time and investment.”

Radical animal welfare groups however, were “extraordinarily hard” to deal with because some campaigners against livestock farming “couldn’t give a damn about New Zealand”, he said.

“It’s hard because they’re not rational – it’s just someone with a total fixation with stopping something that they have a fundamental issue with.”

It’s an increasing dilemma, raised again recently, when Safe chose to air footage of sloppy and inhumane standards with bobby calves in a slaughter house in the North Island.

While the footage was of a petfood processor and not mainstream meat processors – where standards are highly stringent, the overall implication to the general public was that the dairy industry was inhumane.

For Tim it was difficult to front foot

KEY IDEAS ■

■

■ ■

Animal welfare groups not going to go away/consumers increasingly ethical in their choices Need to engage in regular discussion with animal welfare groups and consumers, and then act on what they report promptly Must address the urban/rural divide Needing to continually redress standards to ensure no loopholes in Animal Welfare Act

the issue as a private small petfood processor did not mimic the larger processors he represents.

“I would have liked to have spoken out about it, but on balance I thought it was better to let sleeping dogs lie because the focus wasn’t on us and that may have stirred it up even more.”

However, the ensuing hysteria was frustrating – particularly when he knew how strict the meat processors were with bobby calf standards.

“Every load of calves that come in with our guys are assessed by an MPI vet. It’s very humane.” continued over page

Explore Australia by

Cruise & Rail

CUSTOM DESIGNED CALF SHEDS AVAILABLE NOW!

3 BAY KITS

ET FARM SH

Overhang not included

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

$5229

* from pp twin share Includes: Return flights from AKL, WLG or CHC to Sydney & returning from Perth, 3 night Indian Pacific rail journey with meals & beverages onboard, 1 night pre-cruise & 1 night post-cruise accommodation in Perth, 9 night cruise onboard Pacific Eden with main meals & entertainment onboard 00* it Highlights: Broken Hill, Rawlinna, Broome, Exmouth, Perth (Fremantle) & more.

U$1 red S: Aoard c Departs NZ 15 June 2016 U N b BOise on We accept Farmlands. cru

ED

$6299ex GST $7243.85inc 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

SPECIALISING IN Farm buildings Home renovations Staff accommodation New kitchen/bathroom Stock yards Landscaping and much more . . .

Phone now to arrange an appointment

Harvey World Travel Timaru 257 Stafford Street 03 688 6099 timaru@harveyworld.co.nz

FREE professional on-farm consultancy service

*Conditions: Valid for sales until 11 Mar 2016 or until cruise/rail fares sell out. Prices are based on flying Qantas Economy Class flights from Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch to Sydney, returning from Perth. Onboard credit is in Australia Dollars, per stateroom, applies to cruise portion only. Onboard credit is non-refundable, non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash, used in the casino or medical centre. Travel agent service fees are not included. Prices are correct as at time of printing & may be subject to change without notice. Prices are based on payment by cash or EFTPOS only. Further conditions apply. HWT5034

Mid Canterbury

South Canterbury

North Otago

Ashley Ritchie Phone 027 930 4983

Craig Stewart Phone 027 436 0158

Grant Buchanan Phone 027 370 7752

PASTURE NEED A BOOST?

While stocks last. Props not included. February 2016.

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

Natural Cost Effective Fertiliser

Slow Release NPK | Soil Conditioning | Organic Matter | Totally Natural

“Your Chicken Litter Specialists” W: www.poulfert.co.nz P: 03 349 2411 | 0800 NPK NOW

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

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

2 8

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

ANIMAL WELFARE From page 7 The incident was a timely reminder to redress the Animal Welfare Act, he said.

“To see if there are any loopholes and in this case there potentially was (with pet food processors).”

While the meat processing sector was highly regulated, it was a “much lighter regime” for the pet food sector – and therein lies the problem with reputation and perception playing an equally important role in today’s world.

“Here you have a very small part of the sector that is much more lightly regulated.

There’s not the same scrutiny and yet its actions can have an impact on the entire sector.

That needs to be looked at to ensure good regulatory balance across the sector.”

He likes the idea of having regular discussions with industry bodies and animal welfare groups so that any matters found are reported, dealt with and further discussed to prevent them happening again.

“And clearly if the likes of Safe uncovered something in any of the livestock industries, it would be silly

“

When buying food consumers want to know that it has been treated humanely . . . we would be very foolish to ignore that

not to respond to it.”

While ethical matters are increasingly important we’ve also got to make sure the Animal Welfare Act is still practical, economical and underpinned by good science.

“It has to be fit for purpose.”

Everyone must play their part and act responsibly, he says. “The Animal Welfare Act was amended in 2015 to take it to the next level, but it’s a process of continual improvement…I do think we can stand up proudly in terms of our standards, but we have to do all we can to keep that premium end of the market.”

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.

10-40 TONNE BATCHES 12 tonne batch in stock

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

S

& DEMO G IN T C A R T N O C

AVAILABLE

www.kellyharrows.com

www.kellyharrows.com www.kellyharrows.com www.kellyharrows.com www.kellyharrows.com www.kellyharrows.com

Are you spending too much on herbicide Are spending much on and getting worsetoo results every year?

Are you you spending too much on herbicide herbicide Are you spending too much on herbicide and getting worse results every year?

Are spending much onwill herbicide Kelly’s innovative, new casttoo link cutting discs reduce your and you getting worse results every year? and getting worse results every year? fire risk and help with weed seed soil contact. and getting every year?

Kelly’s innovative, worse new cast results link cutting discs will reduce your

Kelly’s innovative, new cast link cutting discs will reduce your Kelly’s new cast cutting discs fire riskinnovative, and help with seed soil contact.

Kelly’s innovative, newweed cast link link cutting discs will will reduce reduce your your fire risk and help with weed seed soil contact.

Kelly’s innovative, new cast link cutting discs will reduce your fire risk and help with weed seed soil contact. fire risk and help with weed seed soil contact.

One oftenhelp all that is required fire pass riskisand with weed seedNow soil contact. operating this One pass pass harvest is often often and all that that is required required Now operating this One is all is between planting Now operating this One pass harvest is often and all that is required harvest season in the Now operating this between planting between harvest and planting for the perfect seedbed. harvest season in the One pass is often all that is required Now operating this harvest season in the between harvest and planting for the perfect seedbed. greater Canterbury harvest season in the for the perfect seedbed. between harvest and planting with the Cut andperfect pull weeds effectively for the seedbed. greater Canterbury harvest season in the greater Canterbury Cut and pull weeds effectively with the area, please call for for the perfect seedbed. greater Canterbury Cut and pull weeds effectively with the new CL2 discs on the Kelly Diamond area, please call for Cut and pull weeds effectively with the greater Canterbury new CL2 discs on Kelly area, please new CL2This discs on the the Kelly Diamond Harrow. clever tool cutsDiamond and splits booking. area, please call call for for Cut and pull weeds effectively with the new CL2This discs on the Kelly Diamond Harrow. clever tool cuts and splits booking. area, please call for Harrow. clever tool cutsDiamond and splits residue, mixing it with enough soil to hold booking. new CL2This discs on the Kelly Harrow.

This clever tool cuts and splits booking. residue, mixing it enough soil to residue, mixing it with with enough soil to hold hold it in place, providing a protective surface Harrow.

This clever tool cuts and splits residue, mixing it with enough soil to hold booking. it in place, providing a protective surface it in place, providing a protective cover. residue, mixing it with enough soilsurface to hold it in place, providing a protective surface cover. cover. it in place, providing a protective surface With cover.excellent disc wear rates and With excellent disc wear wearthis rates and cover.excellent With disc rates and tremendous versatility machine With excellent disc wearthis rates and tremendous versatility machine tremendous versatility this machine reduces the field work required to With excellent disc wearthis rates and tremendous versatility machine reduces the field work required to reduces the field work required to produce the perfect seedbed. tremendous versatility this machine reduces the field work required to produce the perfect seedbed. produce the perfect seedbed. reduces the work required to produce thefield perfect seedbed. produce the perfect seedbed.

For more information contact For information contact For more more information contact Dave Mitchell 0220869887 For more information contact Dave Mitchell 0220869887 Dave Mitchell 0220869887 Aarron Jamison 0272983352 For more information contact Dave Mitchell 0220869887 Aarron Jamison 0272983352 Aarron Jamison 0272983352 Dave Mitchell 0220869887 Aarron Jamison 0272983352 Aarron Jamison 0272983352

A Better Seedbed, for a Better Bottom Line.

A Better Seedbed, for a Better Bottom Line.

A A Better Better Seedbed, Seedbed, for for a a Better Better Bottom Bottom Line.

Line.

Scan here to find out more Scan here to Scan here to find more Scanout here to find more Scanout here to find out more Scanout here to find more find out more

www.guardianonline.co.nz

9

THE MINISTER RESPONDS TO GUARDIAN FARMING . . .

Guy weighs in on animal welfare What do you think about Safe’s idea to have animal welfare as a stand-alone industry body because of a perceived conflict of interest?

“I don’t agree with this proposal. MPI has brought together expertise and skills under one roof to operate more efficiently, rather than have many different departments operating in silos. Another benefit of the merger is that the number of warranted compliance officers has increased as the different officers became multi-warranted, such as fisheries officers. Combining these resources together means MPI has more capacity to deal with big challenges.

“MPI is now working well and the last thing it needs now is expensive restructuring.

“We already have the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) which provides independent advice to the minister.”

Should the Government be looking towards funding research for synthetic meats?

“As a Government we spend a lot on research and development, but the production of synthetic animal products is not a priority.

“I prefer naturally produced real food and I think most consumers feel the same way.

“New Zealand exporters feed about 40 million people out of a world population of

seven billion. We have a great opportunity to continue building a premium for our products because our animals are farmed outdoors, predominately grass-fed and we have world leading food safety, biosecurity and animal welfare standards.”

Should there be more Government involvement in promoting better animal welfare practices?

“This is already happening. In last year’s Budget we increased funding for animal welfare by $10 million to improve compliance and enforcement.

“We also passed the Animal Welfare Amendment Act and as a result we’ll be bringing in new enforceable regulations that set mandatory animal welfare standards.

There will be public consultation on a range of new codes of welfare this year.

“The act also broadens the range of enforcement tools, including new tools that will enable animal welfare inspectors to prevent animal suffering as well as punish perpetrators.”

An overview: “Overall, the vast majority of farmers care about their animals and do a good job of looking after them. Animal welfare is important for the animals themselves, to

New Canadian manufactured Heavy Duty Cultivator from Pluck’s

New Zealanders and the global consumers of our animal products.

“It’s important we take it very seriously because New Zealanders expect animals to be treated well, and the actions of a few cowboys can tarnish the reputation of the sector as a whole. MPI puts a lot of effort into ensuring people know what their responsibilities to animals are and are able to comply with the law and codes of welfare.

“There is also guidance to farmers from industry bodies like Dairy NZ, so there is no shortage of advice and information for farmers. Overall we have a strong, world class animal welfare system that compares well to any other country. In November 2014, the global charity World Animal Protection ranked New Zealand first equal, out of 50 countries, for our animal welfare regulatory system, alongside the UK, Austria and Switzerland.”

Nathan Guy

HILUX PRERUNNER +GST $ Drive away

Starting at 6.8 Metres Wide x 30 Legs, at 9" or 7" Centres x 4.6 Tonnes

34,775

We have just assembled our latest cultivator from Canada and it’s even bigger and tougher than before.

It has been manufactured to our design, from input we got from you, for New Zealand farm conditions and roads and still has the bullet proof Morris 2" x 11/4" Auto Reset Trip Legs.

Also with 3 extra front castor wheels (7 wheels in total) and a fully floating tow bar that makes your cultivator follow your paddock contours far more closely.

Please give us a call at Pluck’s to find out more about this brand new cultivator to New Zealand. r All sizes come with the option of Harrows and/or rear Tow Bar. r And, of course, they still come with the very solid, later model, 340kg (755lb) Auto Reset trip leg that is 2" wide × 1¼" thick, with a trip clearance of 300mm and will trip, then reset itself, day in and day out, trouble free. r As with all our Cultivators you can still run points from 2" wide up to 12" wide and keep them in the ground without the legs moving out of the ground under load. r Very deep ground penetration, and huge ground clearance when out of the ground for easy point changing.

February only

2016 Hilux 2016 Hilux ALL NEW CARS GET *

5 YEARS

5 YEARS

5 YEARS

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

2012 Highlander 2012 Highlander • 3.5L • 44,000km • 3.5L • 44,000km Of course, we still manufacture our smaller range of cultivators here at Pluck’s.

• Tiptronic • Tiptronic

$36,995 KEVIN

RICHARD KEVIN

Call for$36,995 more information

EDDIE RICHARD

EDDIE SAMANTHA

2011 Corolla GX 2011 • Similar to picture

2012 Highlander TEST DRIVE ME TODAY TEST DRIVE ME TODAY2011 Coro and conditions visit our

• 3.5L website, www.toyota.co.nz • 44,000km Tiptronic Corolla •GX 2012

• Auto • Similar to • 79,000km picture

• Auto • 79,000km

$14,995 KEVIN

$14,995 RICHARD

SAMANTHA ANDREW

5 YEARS

WOF CHECKS

$36,995 • Auto

• Similar to

picture Hilux SR5 2012 Hilux SR5

• 4WD EDDIE

• 71,000km • Auto • 4WD

www.ashburton.toyot

0800 PLUCKS 7 5 8 2 5 7

$

BRANDI-JEAN ANDREW TERESA BRANDI-JEAN PAM TERESAAshburton.PAM Cnr East Street and Walnut Avenue, Phone 307-5 Richard Burns – 027 486 7546 | Eddie Bak

www.ashburton.toyota.co.nz www.ashburton.toyota.co.nz 0 8 0 0

• 71,000km

$39,995SAMANTHA $39,995ANDREW

Cnr East StreetCnr andEast Walnut Street Avenue, and Walnut Ashburton.

Avenue, Phone Ashburton.

307-5830 Phone anytime.

307-5830 OPEN anytime.

SAT 9AMOPEN – 1PMSAT 9AM – 1PM Phone Richard Burns –Richard 027NOW 486 Burns 7546– |027 Eddie 486 Bakos 7546027 | Eddie 450Bakos 7544 027 450 7544

www.plucks.co.nz • enquiries@plucks.co.nz Main South Road Rakaia 7710, Mid Canterbury

• •

Phone 307-5830 - Cnr East St & Walnut Ave, Ashburton

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

www.ashburton.toyota.co.nz

2 10

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

The new young consumer She is a young, educated consumer who has made the decision to quit animal products for life. Nadine Porter talks to a former Ashburton girl who once worked in the dairy industry but has now turned vegan.

Kitset Sheds

BIRDPROOF RAFTERS

STRONG & PROVEN

COMPLETE KITSETS

NOW FOR A FREE BROCHURE PACK OR AT SITE 532 AT THE SOUTHERN FIELD DAYS - 10th-12th FEBRUARY.

FREE DELIVERY

0800 428 453 www.alpinebuildings.co.nz

NZ LTD

FAST INSTALL

“Great product - I’m very satisfied with my new shed!”

Melissa Quin is the new consumer face educated and wanting to be connected to the products she consumes.

Eighteen months ago Melissa Quin committed to quitting animal products for life.

After watching what she termed as “graphic documentaries” from overseas and undertaking further research on social media, Melissa began to think about our farming practices in a way she never had before.

What was perhaps most surprising about Melissa’s decision lay in her past history because not so very long ago, she had worked on a dairy farm alongside her then partner.

Back then, as a teenager, Melissa was ignorant of welfare and environmental issues. She describes herself as “naive”.

“I was more or less concerned about the environment but I didn’t make any connections at that time.”

Today, armed with knowledge and a growing number of her peers, Melissa has quietly begun re-inventing how she behaves as a consumer and says she’s not alone.

Now in her fifth year at Canterbury University, Melissa heads the Veg

KEY POINTS ■ ■ ■

Young consumers using the internet to learn where products come from Primary Industries need to explain to consumers their processes Trend towards community gardens

Club and is a member of one of 20 community gardens in Christchurch – an increasing social trend bringing people together to produce their own produce. Dedicated, she takes the time to research food purchases and likes to visit local growers of vegetables and fruits.

“I like to support local and am more likely to buy oranges if they are grown in New Zealand than in California.”

Her ethical values are now driving every consumer choice, and she is

striving to reconnect with those that grow or make products.

“Younger consumers are far more interested in where their products come from – probably because of the internet. I think previously a lot of people were not making connections as to where things like clothes and other food items came from.”

For Melissa, having as much information available to her at the point of purchase is vital.

“What resources have gone into making this? I know you can’t tell everyone the mineral content of your soil but just having an understanding of the process … we want to know as much as possible.”

She says although she understands some farming practices such as the bobby calf issue cannot be solved, she wants the welfare of the animals to be paramount.

“I guess it’s a matter of both sides being open for discussion so that consumers have a better understanding of how a business works and businesses understanding what a consumer wants.”

MANUFACTURERS OF TIMBER BOXES & PALLETS So for all your pallet or box requirements, no matter how big or small, give Wayne a call today at Adams Sawmilling Also Manufacturers/Suppliers of FARM IMPLEMENT SHEDS IRRIGATION PUMP SHEDS

Adams Sawmilling Co Ltd ISPM 15 accredited for Export Pallets

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

BLACKLOWS TRADEZONE ASHBURTON - THE PEOPLE WHO KNOW CRC

BRAKLEEN 600

BEARINGS, ARINGS, SEALS ALS AND GREASE ASE GUNS Call in and see the team for all your y grease, bearing & seal requirements. requiremen Over 60 years of maintenance and mechanical support.

BONUS 6 PACK OF COKE WITH EVERY 6 PACK OF CRC

Removes contaminants from industrial machinery, brake linings, pads, drums & calipers.

87

+ GST

5089

$8.61 per can + 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.

WELDING HELMET

XCEL-ARC

AS3000F

High quality.

2 independent sensors. Solar cell powered. Adjustable shade 9-13.

Full range of welding products and accessories available in-store.

$112.17 + GST

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

FREEPHONE 0800 452 522

KERRICK

WATERBLASTER PPS3030KCI-KI

3000 psi. 11 litres per minute.

6.5hp engine.

$1495 + GST

ASHBURTON

www.guardianonline.co.nz

11

NZ NEWS BRIEFS GREAT SEASON FOR PIPFRUIT

FONTERRA TO LIFT TRADE IN IRAN

It looks like another bumper season for orchardists - despite the hail event which hit Nelson before Christmas, Pipfruit New Zealand says.

Growing conditions had been very favourable for orchardists, chief executive Alan Pollard told Radio New Zealand.

The only major challenge so far this season had been that Nelson hail storm, which caused a lot of damage to local crops, Mr Pollard said.

Last season was a record in terms of export volumes and returns, with export sales exceeding $600 million for the first time ever, he said.

The industry was hoping to exceed that $600 million again this season.

Fonterra is well positioned to increase its trade in Iran following the lifting of trade sanctions, it says.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed to Radio New Zealand it is in the process of updating its regulations and removing the UN sanctions, which it expects to complete next month.

Fonterra managing director of global ingredients Kelvin Wickham said Iran was a valuable trading partner and a key butter market for Fonterra, with sales of $150 million.

With a population of nearly 80 million and long-standing customer relationships in Iran, Fonterra expected continued growth in the

market, Mr Wickham said.

“The good thing for Fonterra is we have that established customer base, we have long-standing relationships, we know how to do business there and we have earned respect for staying the course over the years.”

DAIRY LAND VALUES WILL BE IMPACTED BY ENVIRONMENTAL RESTRAINTS AgFirst farm consultant Phil Journeaux has been researching the impact of environmental constraints, such as reducing nitrogen, phosphorous, sediment and microbe discharges, on land values in New Zealand.

Working on the assumption dairying was currently the highest use of pastoral farming in New Zealand, he found dairy land values would be impacted by

environmental constraints that affected profitability.

These included reducing diffuse discharges to water - with the cost of improving effluent systems, fencing off streams, developing riparian margins and wetlands, putting in feedpads and wintering barns, as well as implementing a range of farm management practice changes.

“The increased cost for farmers to

mitigate the discharges and also reduce the flexibility of future land use change both have the potential to impact the price of land significantly.”

Mr Journeaux said it was probably also only a matter of time before the Emissions Trading Scheme covered agriculture, which meant carbon charges in the future were going to be inevitable and costly for farmers.

– Radio New Zealand

Full, Independent Agronomy Advice – Agri-Chemical Supplier – Ravensdown “FlowFert N’ Supplier – Crop & Pasture Spraying – AgRecovery Collection Site – Syngenta Nozzle Retailer Bateman Sprayers – SALES – SERVICE - PARTS

Office: 03 302 8098 David Molloy: 0274 362 441 Ashley Jenkins: 0274 362 448 David Mangin: 0274 802 216 Fergus Wakelin: 0274 603 921

Agronomists: Gary Rackham: 0274 362 459 Gregor Robertson: 0274 362 438

BOOK ONLINE: www.molloyag.co.nz

2 12

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

NZ NEWS BRIEFS FARMER SUPPORT REQUIRED

EMPLOYMENT LAW BREACHES

Farmers east of State Highway One and between the Ashburton and Rakaia Rivers are being asked to get involved in a three-year research project that is aimed at better understanding groundwater quality.

The project, which is funded by Ministry for Primary Industries’ Sustainable Farming Fund (SFF) and a collaboration between local farmers, businesses, industry groups and Environment Canterbury, is being managed by FAR. It has been set up to provide the best and most up-to-date information available on water use and quality in the area to the regional council planning and decision making process.

FAR CEO Nick Pyke says Environment Canterbury and the Ashburton Zone Committee will be

The Employment Relations Authority (ERA) has ordered Viewbank Dairy Ltd near Rakaia to rectify employment law breaches discovered

by Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s Labour Inspector and pay $7500 in penalties.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s Labour Inspectorate visited the farm as part of an audit to check for compliance with minimum employment standards on dairy farms. A number of breaches were identified and an improvement notice was issued. The inspector brought the case before the ERA when the employer failed to comply with parts of the notice.

Labour Inspectorate Southern Regional Manager Stuart Lumsden says the investigation found that

starting their sub-regional planning process for the Ashburton-Rakaia area in 2018. This process will weigh up the impacts of farming on water quality and supply, and consider what, if any, changes to regulations, around farming activities might be required.

This project has been initiated to pull together a more complete and current set of data on the quality of the groundwater resource.

several workers had been treated as casual employees when in fact they were permanent.

“As a result, employees were provided with incorrect holiday entitlements. They were getting paid 8 per cent on top of their usual pay, when in fact they were entitled to four weeks’ holiday pay, pro-rated, under the Holidays Act 2003.

SHEEP MILK INDUSTRY WILL RIVAL VITICULTURE Speaking at Food Futures Taranaki 2016 in New Plymouth, Massey University management lecturer Craig Prichard said the sheep milk business was already worth $12 million annually.

He said about 26,000 East Friesian ewes were being milked in New Zealand, with 6000 ewes added to the nation’s flock last year. He

expected a similar number to be added each year over the next four to five years, adding “about a farm a year”.

Dr Prichard said most of the milk was being processed into valueadded products such as fine cheeses, ice-cream, butter, yoghurt and infant milk formula.

Another speaker at the conference,

Massey University vice-chancellor Steve Maharey, challenged the food industry to diversify and be more innovative.

He said New Zealand needed to move away from exporting basic commodities and do more to develop branded, value-added food products that could be sold overseas.

– Radio New Zealand

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

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

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

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

Applying lime or fert? Save money now!

Reduce nitrate leaching Identify your at risk leaching zones and soil water holiding capacities with precision soil EC mapping Reduce liming costs Accurately map the variability of your soils pH with on-the-go soil sampling.

20-25 pH samples per hectare for precision variable rate lime applications Increase your yields Apply lime only where it’s needed, when it’s needed and in the correct amount.

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

For best management practices, farm smarter with Smart Ag Solutions.

www.guardianonline.co.nz

13

AROUND THE WORLD AUSTRALIA: INDONESIA SCRAPS CONTROVERSIAL TAX ON BEEF IMPORTS

US: SOUTHERN US LOSES 30,000 COWS Dairy producers in Texas and New Mexico have estimated that the number of animals that died during the recent winter storm Goliath will climb to more than 30,000.

Winter storms that ripped through the central and Southern United States at the end of 2015 dealt a blow to Texas’ dairy industry. The huge loss will make any indemnity programme trying to make a real impact to the affected farmers hard to achieve as most of the dairy cattle losses in Texas come from just three counties.

But area dairies may have lost thousands of milk cows, according to an extension agent with New Mexico State University. The group does not know how many heifers and calves have been lost.

The Texas producers are working with state environmental officials to

The Indonesian Government will scrap its controversial 10 per cent value-added tax (VAT) on imported cattle following INTRODUCING THE POWERFUL NEW M7-1 RANGE butcher strikes and mounting pressure from consumers and livestock industry representative bodies.

As reported by ABC Rural, the Government applied the revenue-raising tax to cattle imported from Australia, in a move which surprised everyone along the live export supply chain.

But recently the Government’s chief economics minister, Darmin Nasution, told reporters in Jakarta that cattle would once again be exempt from the VAT. “We’ve asked the Finance Ministry to temporarily stop imposing the valueadded tax because it has a tremendous impact on strategic food [stocks],” he said.

The Jakarta Globe described the decision to axe the newly introduced tax as the latest “policy flip-flop” by the Jokowi Government.

THIS IS THE LIFE

find ways to dispose of the carcasses.

As a result of animal deaths, there would be a big impact on the milk supply in Texas.

Family members from the MidFrisian Dairy, six miles south of Clovis, said they were lucky in that none of their 1800 milk cows died.

Losses are expected to affect production for about a year.

US: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE TO OFFER MICROLOANS The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) will begin offering farm ownership microloans, which the department said will help create a new financing avenue for farmers to buy and improve property.

The microloans will be especially helpful to beginning or under-

served farmers, US veterans looking for a career in farming, and those who have small and mid-sized farming operations.

“Many producers, especially new and under-served farmers, tell us that access to land is one of the biggest challenges they face in

establishing and growing their own farming operation,” said USDA Deputy Secretary Krysta Harden.

“USDA is making it easier for new farmers to hit the ground running and get access to the land that they need to establish their farms or improve their property.”

THIS IS THE LIFE

UNBELIEVABLE PERFORMANCUERS O

ARVESTED IN 8 H

H 797.636 TONNES

Come and drive the new Kubota M7-1 and other Kubota models

www.newholland.co.nz

15KB051b - Imported by C B Norwood Distributors Ltd

10.90

INTRODUCING THE POWERFUL NEW M7-1 RANGE

HARVEST TOUR 2016

INNOVATION IN ACTION

See the World Record beating New Holland CR 10.90 combine together with some of the latest equipment from Horsch, Lemken, Vaderstad and New Holland.

Feb 15 & 16 Feb 18 & 19 Feb 22 & 23 Feb 25 & 26

Stewart property Mainwarings Road, Rakaia Keeley property Maronan Ealing Road, Hinds Gaffaney property Levels Plain Road, Timaru Ruddenklau Property Waihao Back Road, Waimate

0ZGTYFèX SJ\ ĆFLXMNU YWFHYTW .YèX YMJ HQJFSJXY RTXY HFUFGQJ HTRKTWYFGQJ FSI UT\JWKZQ YWFHYTW YMFY 0ZGTYF MFX J[JW GZNQY 8UJHNFQQ^ IJXNLSJI KTW YMJ KFWRNSL UWTKJXXNTSFQ \MT \FSYX F [JWXFYNQJ FSI MFWI \TWPNSL YWFHYTW

Ashburton - Thursday 18 Feb 2016

See your local Kubota dealeron forfarm more information.

From 9.30am

The days will begin at 11:00am with morning tea followed by presentations of the equipment on display.

A BBQ lunch will then be available followed by walk-around presentations of the machines and harvesting will begin early afternoon, crop conditions permitting.

Please contact us for more information, and your RSVP would be appreciated

Johnson TracTors Gluyas www.johnsongluyas.co.nz

Demonstrations presentations, and drive sessions, with BBQ style lunch provided 0800 KUBOTA For more information please contact PZGTYF HT S_ Ashburton & Timaru Dallys O’Neill 027 688 3312 Timaru & Oamaru KFHJGTTP HTR PZGTYFS_ Graeme Denise 0274 326 111

Ashburton: Timaru: Oamaru:

225 Alford Forest Road 252 Hilton Highway 1 Karora Road

Ph 03 307 8330 Ph 03 688 1133 Ph 03 437 2007

B051b - Imported by C B Norwood Distributors Ltd

DEMONSTRATION

2 14

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

AROUND THE WORLD AUSTRALIA: SHORTAGE OF AVOCADOS

Avocados have doubled in popularity in the past 10 years and it seems with everyone catching on to their health benefits, Australia is running low on the tasty fruit.

Avocados Australia chief executive said growers are struggling to keep up with the demand.

The Borough owner Aidan Adams said the fruit makes an appearance in most of his cafe’s breakfast items, burgers and sandwiches.

“It is something you don’t really make money on in your business because it is a high expense item,” he said. “But it’s something we go through a lot of. It’s starting to become such a popular item because of the health benefits.”

Customers expect a decent amount of avocado with their meal and Mr Adams said he is willing to operate at a small loss to keep his customers happy. He expects other businesses will increase prices to ride out the shortage until retail prices level out.

UK: SHEEPMEAT IN GOOD DEMAND A report by AHDB and the International Meat Secretariat suggests the UK is well positioned to serve sheep demand growth, including in China But the industry is being disadvantaged by slow EU progress in negotiating free trade agreements with other countries and areas.

These were the findings of an AHDB and International Meat Secretariat report, World Sheep Meat Market to 2025.

In the report, its author Lionel Colby said: “The emergence of China is changing the dynamics of the global sheepmeat market. China is now the largest producer, consumer and importer of sheepmeat.”

AHDB said the UK was the third largest exporter of sheepmeat and was in a good position to increase its trade both within and outside the EU.

UK: GRAZING SHEEP SUPPLYING THE NATIONAL GRID A company is planning to transform a grassy field full of grazing sheep into a large solar farm.

International solar development company Suncredit UK has drawn up preliminary plans to construct a 12 Megawatt (MW) photo voltaic solar farm on 21.85 hectares of land in Charvil.

The company is in the early stages of preparing a planning application for the farm and it has submitted a screening report to Wokingham Borough Council.

The company says the farm would consist of a large number of solar panels fixed to posts of up to 2.4 metres in height and the solar energy would be fed into the national grid via an underground cable.

The site would be surrounded by two-metre-tall deer fences and constantly monitored by infrared security cameras, but no lighting would be required.

www.guardianonline.co.nz

ADVERTISING FEATURE

15

Hinds plan change adopted, to be notified Environment Canterbury’s council has accepted the recommendations of the independent hearing commissioners on the Hinds Plan Change (proposed Plan Change 2 to the Land & Water Regional Plan). The plan change will be notified on Saturday February 13.

Key aspects include:

• Restrictions on further land use intensification until nitrate levels are at or below an average annual groundwater concentration of 6.9 milligrams per litre.

• Properties will still be able to develop under the RDR land use consents until these expire in 2019.

• Good Management Practice is required of all farming activities by 2017 – see www.ecan.govt.nz/mgmgmp.

• Land users are permitted to increase nitrogen losses up to 15 kg/ha per year as a permitted activity.

• Properties exceeding 20kg of nitrogen per ha/year will be required to progressively reduce their discharge beyond Good Management Practice levels by: • 15 per cent by 2025 • 25 per cent by 2030 • 36 per cent by 2035 unless they reduce to 20 kilograms per hectare.

The Plan Change will be subject to an appeal period of 15 working days (on points of law only). Once any appeals have been resolved the Hinds plan change will be made operative. Until the Hinds plan change becomes operative, however, activities must comply with the rules in the Land & Water Regional Plan, as well as the specific sub-regional rules that apply in the Hinds/Hekeao Plains area.

Environment Canterbury commissioners Peter Skelton and David Caygill discuss the newly adopted Hinds Plan Change.

Focus on turning trends around Environment Canterbury Commissioner David Caygill, who sits on the Ashburton Zone Committee, said the Hinds/Hekeao Plains area is one of the most productive in Canterbury.

“The availability of plentiful clean water has been one of the critical ingredients to the catchment’s economic success,” David Caygill said.

“However, water resources are now showing signs of stress.

“Nitrogen levels are high and increasing, and water availability is decreasing.

Waterways regularly dry out in summer and aquifer levels have dropped, affecting ecosystems and the reliability of domestic water supplies and irrigation.

“These trends have not only had a negative effect on cultural and ecological values, they have also affected the reliability of supply for users.”

David Caygill said the community and the Ashburton Zone Committee had been at the forefront of finding ways to turn the trends around.

“The big challenges have been to find means of reducing nutrient discharges

and increasing water in the system, while still maintaining a vibrant agricultural community and economy.

Addressing over-allocation and meeting national environmental bottom lines has been key to this work.”

Meetings on plan changes – how they will affect farmers

DairyNZ: Tuesday, February 23 10.45am-1pm Hinds Community Hall Topic: Hinds and Nutrient Management plan changes • Plan provisions

• Good management practices • The Farm Portal • Farm environment plans DairyNZ: Tuesday, February 23 6.45pm-9pm A&P Showgrounds, Brucefield Ave, Ashburton Topic: Nutrient Management plan change (PC 5) Meeting 3: Wednesday, February 24 7-9pm Mayfield Community Hall Topic: Hinds and Nutrient Management plan changes

Helping farmers to meet good management practices Environment Canterbury is set to extend its work in Ashburton with the establishment of a new Ashburton Zone Team.

The team is being created to provide support to the local community in improving water quality in the district.

Team members will be employed by Environment Canterbury and work alongside the Ashburton Zone Committee set up as part of the Canterbury Water Management Strategy.

There are four new positions based in Ashburton including two resource management officers, a land management

Ashburton Zone Team manager Donna Lill.

officer and a biodiversity officer.

The team, managed by Donna Lill, will provide practical advice for farmers and land managers on good

management practices, farm environment plans, environmental protection and restoration, as well as other relevant water and land management issues that people want to talk about.

Donna is very keen to see those living in the district consider applying for the positions.

“With these new roles there is flexibility to structure the roles around the successful applicant.

We will consider part time, flexible hour appointments to enable applicants to keep commitments to family, farm work and the like.”

A strong understanding of farm systems, experience in agricultural or support industries, a commitment to improving environmental outcomes and alreadyestablished strong networks in the Ashburton zone are among the qualities sought after.

“Applicants would not necessarily need formal qualifications such as a resource management degree.

Experience could be just as useful, as it could, for instance, result in a good understanding of farming systems”, she said.

Donna says she is passionate about transforming the way Environment Canterbury

works with local people as part of finding local solutions to water management issues and encouraging a culture of continuous improvement among farmers.

“Environmental frameworks are one of the biggest challenges currently facing agriculture. And with the Ashburton District renowned for leading agricultural innovation and change, we are looking for people who can build strong networks and create an open environment where we can discuss sustainability and work together to stay ahead of the field.”

DON’T LET YOUR PROFITS GO UP IN SMOKE

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

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

Aqualinc Research Ltd CHCH

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

www.aqualinc.com / www.myirrigation.info

ASHBURTON 3 BAY LEAN-TO FARM SHED Bird proof

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

Delivery Mid Canterbury Shed illustration only

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

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

• • • • • • • • • •

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

www.guardianonline.co.nz

ADVERTISING FEATURE

17

What’s new at The Lake House?

Have you been down to The Lake House at Lake Hood recently? I highly suggest you do. There is so much happening. The business is expanding and with a great new head chef things have never been better.

Firstly, what’s happening that is new? Every Sunday from 2-5pm there is live acoustic music on the deck.

Sit back with a cold brew or a delicate Sauvignon Blanc and a Lake House platter and enjoy live music on the alfresco deck.

A new fish and chip shop has opened up at the end of the restaurant. Open most days and nights, you can now enjoy fish and chips on the lake. Either once you have finished boating for the day or just come down to the lake and enjoy a summer’s night.

A new head chef started in December. Brent has years of head chef experience and his last job was in the Cardrona Hotel in Wanaka. He will be producing a new menu in autumn and is delighting customers with his exceptional cooking ability.

Coming up is Valentine’s Day

“

where Brent will be producing a five course degustation menu. This includes Skewered Scallops wrapped in Manuka Smoked Bacon, Smoked Beef Carpaccio, Chicken and Leek Tart, Twice cooked Pork Belly and Chocolate and Whisky

ECK D N O C I S LIVE MU PM 5 M P 2 SUNDAY

RESTAURANT, BAR AND VENUE

NOW OPEN FISH N CHIP SHOP

Cake. This is filling up fast, so be in quick.

During the year keep an eye out for an end of summer Mexican Party, a Whisky Galore tasting night with a Scottish Band. Mother’s Day will see the sister restaurant

The Tea House produce a beautiful High Tea at The Lake House, a mid winter Christmas party to keep you warm, a dinner and dance and so much more weekly.

Enjoy this truly exquisite setting any day or night of

The business is expanding and with a great new head chef things have never been better.

the week. Perfect for functions big or small. Ask them about their private rooms or keep up-to-date with all the details on their Facebook, Instagram Twitter pages or website.

If you are going in don’t forget to sign up to their loyalty programme. The House Club where upon sign-up you can get a $10 voucher. You will also get a free main on your birthday when you are a member and points every time you use your card at either The Lake House or The Tea House.

Whatever your dining needs are this year, call The Lake House and see how they can accommodate you.

E E T TA BNLY G R O F A N U NT I O N F O R A LO C A C C A S S I O N O

THE LAKE HOUSE OPEN 7 DAYS FROM 10AM 10 Huntingdon Avenue, Lake Hood, Ashburton Phone 302 6064 or book online www.lakehouselakehood.co.nz

2 18

Farming

ADVERTISING FEATURE

www.guardianonline.co.nz

Farmers, take a break and have a day off Thanks to the generosity of the Todhunter families the public have a unique chance to see some beautiful Mid Canterbury high country.

Funds raised all contribute to Methven Lions Charitable fund, assisting several local community projects.

Methven Lions are hosting a selfdrive tour running through several farms along the south bank of the Rakaia River to Glenfalloch Station, where a barbecue will be running.

The drive continues through the private farm tracks of Glenfalloch and Lake Heron Stations, coming out by Lake Heron, then back on to public roads through the Hakatere Conservation Park.

A checkpoint on Blackford road, a few km inland from the turnoff on SH72, is where the $50 per vehicle is paid.

A map with extensive info on the properties along the route will be given, this is your ticket to continue on the private tracks through Glenfalloch.

The checkpoint will be running from 8 am, with the last cars through by 2 pm. Allow about three hours driving for the whole trip, the first section from the Blackford Road / SH72 intersection drive to Glenfalloch is about an hour.

Rakaia & Ashburton Gorge 4 Wheel Drive Trip Sunday, February 28 from 8am Start on Blackford Road by the Lime Works

$50 per vehicle, cash only.

Vehicles must be high clearance 4WD (no motorbikes allowed) For details please visit www.methvenlions.nz

PHOTOS SUPPLIED BILL IRWIN

AVAILABLE FROM NORTH CANTERBURY TO NORTH OTAGO

www.guardianonline.co.nz

ADVERTISING FEATURE

19

Carving out a solid business From humble beginnings David Hood has carved out a solid business servicing Mid Canterbury’s rural community.

Forming a company was not on his mind when he purchased a digger with the intention of doing some work on his own property, but one thing led to another and six years ago David Hood Contracting was launched.

“I started sheep and beef farming at 17, then went on to own my own farm,” he said.

“With rising costs I leased the farm out to the neighbouring dairy farmer, and bought a small digger to do my own water troughs.

The neighbours then asked me to do some jobs for them and with word of mouth the business just grew from there.”

These days the family-based business is kept busy with earthmoving projects around the district. While anything requiring earthworks is on the cards, David said much of the work revolves around installing farm tracks, preparation for building sites and constructing effluent

ponds.

David often works in conjunction with his brother Jack, who has been in the shingle business since he was 18, and owns Methven Shingle Supplies.

“Working together provides us with the opportunity to complete the full job for the client by providing shingle

supplies, truck and trailer units, bulk cartage of lane material, loaders and portable on farm screening,” he said.

David Hood Contracting is not a big business, nor does David have any immediate plans to grow. He sees continuing to focus on providing excellent service at competitive rates as the way

forward.

Aside from David’s role as a driver, the business employs two full-timers - Kane Hickman came on board a year after the business began and Cody Streeter joined the team a year later. There is also a part-timer on staff.

“We employ honest people from farming backgrounds so

they know what the clients require and relate well to them.

“We try to save the client money where possible by not doing unnecessary work.”

Logging and tree removal form the second arm of David Hood Contracting’s business, with the digger drivers subbing in as loggers.

“Tree removal is something we have been doing for a long time, and we pride ourselves on always getting a very good burn and a good clean up,” David said.

To date much of the logging work has involved removing trees to clear the way for the installation of centre pivot irrigators, with the focus on delivering value for money.

“We log out on an hourly rate. Logs are sold through forest companies, direct to the client,” he said.

Maintaining health and safety standards is also integral to the logging business. In the past five years there have been no injuries to workers, or anyone else on worksites, nor have any clean up fires got away.

Dairy Farm Conversions | Lanes| Grading | Tree and Stump Removal Effluent Ponds | General Earthworks| On Farm Screening Truck and Trailer Units available| Loaders | Shingle Supplies

Phone 027 254 0407

2 20

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

A rich slice of farming history The Hinds drains are an interesting piece of the district’s farming history.

They were built in the 1940s and 1950s to drain the large swamp between the Ashburton and the Rangitata rivers so that the rich soils underneath could be farmed.

The drainage programme has been very successful and the area is now a highly productive agricultural area.

Some of the drains were originally spring-fed streams that were modified to become drains; others were purposebuilt.

They have considerable value as habitat for fish and other aquatic life, such as birds, insects and eels.

The Windermere drain has eels, bullies and mudfish.

Some drains have perched culverts (raised concrete barriers) which prevent trout from entering the high parts of the drains, to protect the native species.

The drains are in the spotlight because of two issues: many of them now go dry in the summer, and there

Mary Ralston

FOREST AND BIRD

is a concern about high nitrate levels in the water of the drains.

In the past 10 years, there has been a move from borderdyke irrigation to overhead irrigators fed by pumped groundwater, and many stock water races have been closed.

This increased “efficiency” of water use has meant that there is less water draining into the water table, and less water feeding into the drains.

Spring-fed streams also regularly go dry.

Increased abstraction may be a factor; irrigators may be using water faster than it is being replaced in the aquifers.

Monitoring of invertebrates at 27 sites over the past 15 years gives a sorry picture of

water quality in the drains.

Insect larvae, such as caddis fly and mayfly, are sensitive to environmental changes so are a good indicator of the health of waterways.

In 2000-2002, insect larvae populations were abundant and healthy, but since then there has been a decrease in insect diversity and health.

A sub-committee of the Ashburton Water Management Zone Committee called the Hinds Drains Working Party is looking at water quality, quantity, nutrient load limits and management regimes for the drains.

One of their objectives is to set minimum flows for the drains to sustain a healthy aquatic habitat.

In August 2014 a water monitoring programme began at 27 sites on eight drains.

Initial results were consistent throughout the whole area, with nitrate nitrogen values in the range of 10 to 14.5 mg/l.

There was little difference between sites along Boundary

BRINGING YOU VALUABLE INSIGHTS CONTACT T: 03 307 6355 E: ashburton@kpmg.co.nz

Road, where spring flows come to the surface and feed into the drains, and sites near the coast.

These values are worrying as 10mg/l is toxic to a lot of aquatic life and is near the level of World Health Organisation drinking water standards.

These preliminary results may indicate that the high nitrate nitrogen values are coming from the groundwater – probably a result of nitrogen leaching from the freedraining light soils higher up on the plains.

One of the working party’s recommendations to protect the drains’ flows is to use groundwater to supplement the drains until a programme of Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) can have an effect.

The local Eiffelton Irrigation Scheme pumps deep groundwater into the drains for distribution to farmers and already allocates more water to the drains than is used by farmers, which helps maintain flow.

This scheme has been

operating since the 1980s and is an example of Targetted Stream Augmentation (TSA).

MAR is also going to be used as a method of putting water back into the aquifers.

A proposed local MAR project will take water from the Rangitata River at high flows, divert it into a stock water race near State Highway One, then into gravel pits from where it will soak into the underground aquifers and recharge the lowland springs, thus diluting the high nitrate levels in the groundwater.

Peter Lowe, local farmer and chairman of the working party, says it will be at least five years, and possibly 10, before the shallow aquifers are recharged.

Diluting the water though is not a long-term solution to high nitrate levels.

A drastic reduction in leaching from farms is required but it will be many years before ECan guidelines on nitrogen loss from farms will have an effect.

Visit our website for more on how the

www.guardianonline.co.nz

ADVERTSIING FEATURE

21

Polaris continues to grow Last year saw a 40 per cent increase for Polaris sales, a record year for Polaris New Zealand, selling more ATVs than ever before and taking significant market share. This is an incredible in feat an ATV market which decreased in size by 15 per cent nationally.

“Our pronounced growth in a challenging marketplace speaks volumes for the innovation and value offered

by Polaris, along with our diverse product range designed to meet local customers’ needs,” said Polaris New Zealand Country Manager, Alan Collins.

Polaris made a real commitment to supporting the local market by creating a New Zealand head office and increasing warehousing in both Christchurch and Auckland for parts and accessories. This means the aftermarket support for Polaris customers is second to none. Here in Canterbury, D&E saw a large shift to the side-by-side products with Ranger 570HD and the Diesel 1000HD sweeping

the market, based on their robustness and value. The ETX model followed closely with its value for money being very attractive for our light industrial, commercial and lifestyle clients.

What can you look forward to in 2016?

• The RZR Turbo has been made available to the NZ market and is the most powerful, fastest UTV ever made.

• 2016 will also see the release of the all-new General. This 1000cc sport utility takes the power and comfort of the RZR and teams it with the practicality of the Ranger series - watch this space!

• More machines with active descent control and product improvements across the range.

The team at Drummond & Etheridge is excited to bring another year of great Polaris products to Canterbury in 2016. The Polaris product range is diverse, with 18

The new 2016 Polaris General.

models with ROPS; petrol and diesel models and highperformance alternatives for those looking for sport or recreation vehicles. Unique local features on many of the models create a point of difference that makes these

machines streaks ahead of the field.

Drummond & Etheridge will be running demonstration programmes throughout the year but invite you to contact them anytime to arrange a demonstration

RANGER ETX SPECIAL OFFER

on-farm or at a demo site. The aim of on-farm demonstrations is for you to get a chance to use the machine for your day-to-day farm jobs and see just how amazing these machines are, trying really is believing.

LIMI TED STOC K

0% P.A. OVER 24 MONTHS

1/3

1/3

UPFRONT

1/3

IN 12 MONTHS

IN 24 MONTHS ONTHS

$14,995

INC GST

0 0 0 1 $ E V A S PLUS! Get a Lock & Ride Pro-Fit sport roof and tow bar worth $750 absolutely FREE! 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 models. Offer expires 31/3/2016. Polaris Finance is a program operated by De Lage Landen Ltd Company No: 135515.

www.dne.co.nz 0800 432 633

CHRISTCHURCH

ASHBURTON

799 JONES RD, ROLLESTON. 03 349 4883. STEVE JOHNSON 027 486 7726.

832 EAST ST. 03 307 9911. DANNY KING 027 535 3538. www.polaris.co.nz |

/PolarisNZ

Farming

2 22

www.guardianonline.co.nz

The legal aspects of animal Animal welfare in the dairy industry came under the spotlight last year when Safe released footage of bobby calves being mistreated in Waikato.

Dairy industry bodies do not believe the mistreatment shown in those videos is widespread or that the videos fairly represent New Zealand dairy farming in general, and this is most likely a view shared by a majority of farmers themselves.

However, for an industry which is so heavily reliant on consumer and international markets, our farmers must constantly be seeking to achieve the highest standards of animal welfare.

Maintaining those high standards may now become a more considered decision by farmers given the current economic environment with the low dairy payout.

Farmers will wish to keep their animal health costs as low as possible, and may choose to undertake some procedures on their stock themselves rather

Jacqui Watson

TAVENDALE AND PARTNERS

than call their vet.

Care must be taken in doing so as the Animal Welfare Act 1999 provides that surgical procedures deemed to be “significant” must only be undertaken by a vet.

If you are unsure as to whether you are legally able to undertake a surgical procedure, you should consult with your vet or farm adviser first.

Farmers should still consider their obligations under the act even if the procedure is not one which is restricted to a vet.

The obligations apply to all owners of animals and every person in charge of those animals.

The act provides that the

over-riding duty is to take all reasonable steps to ensure that the physical, health and behavioural needs of stock are met.

Where cattle are ill or injured, they must receive treatment that alleviates any unreasonable or unnecessary pain or distress, or they must be humanely euthanised.

Even if a farmer did not intend to harm an animal or thought the steps they were taking to treat the animal were sufficient, unless all reasonable steps to treat the animal have in fact been taken, the farmer may be in breach of the act.

The act is a broad piece of legislation which covers all mammals, birds, reptiles and other creatures.

Mandatory obligations specific to dairy cattle are found in the Dairy Cattle Code of Welfare, the Animal Welfare (Painful Husbandry Procedures) Code of Welfare and the Transport of Livestock within New Zealand Code of Welfare.

New Zealand farmers must constantly seek to achieve the highest sta

The codes have been created pursuant to the act and expand on the fundamental provisions of the act.

Failure to meet a minimum standard in the codes may be used as evidence to support a prosecution of an offence under the act.

Conversely, the farmer’s defence may include evidence that the farmer equalled or exceeded the minimum standards in a relevant code.

Along with the minimum standards, the codes also provide recommended best practice.

Convictions under the act may result in substantial fines and in some situations, imprisonment.

Any painful procedure undertaken on cattle must comply with the six minimum standards in the Animal Welfare (Painful Husbandry Procedures) Code of Welfare:

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 • • • • • •

Call Hamish today to discuss your fertiliser requirements

Locallyowned owned Locally and operated operated and

T

R

A

N

S

P

O

R

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

Proud to be servicing the farming community in Mid Canterbury

T

L T

D

Phone 308 4079

www.ruraltransport.co.nz

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

Call today for more information.

www.guardianonline.co.nz

23

welfare

andards of animal welfare.





Justification: They must only be performed when there are no other practical and effective alternatives and they either result in overall enhancement of the animals’ welfare, facilitate advantageous farm management systems, an enhanced animal produce, or a reduced safety risk to humans.

Operator ttraining,

Stockmanship and facilities: The farmer must ensure that they or their staff have either the relevant knowledge and training or appropriate supervision and suitable equipment to ensure that the health and welfare needs of the stock are met.

The farmer or employee must be able to recognise early signs of significant distress, injury or ill-



health so that prompt remedial action can be taken or advice sought.

Minimising harmful consequences: Painful procedures must not be performed on newborn animals less than 12 hours old where their survival may be compromised.

If procedures that have health and welfare benefits for stock are not used, care must be taken to manage

any on-going risks as a result.  The remaining three minimum standards specifically address castration, tail docking, disbudding and dehorning.

The full code is available for download on the Ministry for Primary Industries’ website, and a condensed, easy to follow guide is available from DairyNZ. If you have any further

questions about your obligations, you should contact your vet or solicitor.

This article is necessarily brief and general in nature.

You should seek guidance from your legal advisor before taking any action related to the matters raised in this article.

Jacqui Watson is an Associate in the Ashburton office of Tavendale and Partners, a leading commercial and agribusiness law firm.

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

2 24

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

How low can the price go?

Chris Murdoch

PROPERTY BROKERS

communities around them.

Talking of arable farmers, what a two-week period of hell.

Crops are ready to harvest and we get the rain that everyone prayed for over the past three months all in this two-week period.

Wet weather, humid conditions, prices down. Not a good outlook.

With the current conditions being experienced, don’t be afraid to seek advice or even just take the opportunity to talk things over with others.

All-in-all, farming is a roller coaster ride and always has been, the only difference is the up is higher and the drops lower.

Harvesters were able to make inroads into Simon Bonifant’s Wakanui property in late January, but recent rain has made things tough for arable farmers.

JFM

Christmas is over, the New Year is well under way but oh my goodness, the expected improvement in dairy certainly hasn’t happened.

In fact just the opposite.

Fonterra has come out with their $4.15kg/MS basic price plus dividend if you happen to hold shares.

All this brings forward the question of how low can it go?

Only time will tell us this, but believe me, a lot if not all of Canterbury hopes no lower.

Talking with the banks locally, all seem to be holding their lines and are saying they will support their clients through this tough patch, but I guess sooner or later the banks are going to request some money back.

None of us want that day to arrive, but if things stay like they are now - continuing to trend downwards - it will arrive.

Right now we are wondering how the dairy farmers will get through, but the equally serious question is how will it also adversely affect arable farmers and the

www.guardianonline.co.nz

RURAL REAL ESTATE FEATURE

25

Dairy farm sales still depressed While the year ended positively for much of the rural property market, dairy farm sales remained depressed, according to the latest Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) report.

In the three months to December, 61 more farms were sold throughout the country, bringing the total to 547 farms, up 12.6 per cent when compared to the same period in 2014.

The median price per hectare for all farms sold was $28,000 compared to $28,781 recorded for the three months ended December 2015, however it was down 1.9 per cent compared to the November quarter.

The REINZ All Farms Price Index rose 9.7 per cent in December, compared to the three months to November, and ended the year up 4.1 per cent compared to the December quarter 2014.

In the current climate the market for dairy farms was more challenging. REINZ reported 86 dairy farms sold in the three months to December by comparison with

95 in the same period of 2014 and 121 in the final quarter of 2013.

Following in this trend, the REINZ Dairy Farm Price Index dropped 10.8 per cent in December compared to the same period of 2014.

“An increase in sales volumes during the December quarter confirms resilience and resolute confidence in the rural sector, in spite of difficulties currently being experienced in the dairy

industry,” REINZ rural spokesman Brian Peacocke said. “In the wider rural economy, the general tone in the horticultural sector including the kiwifruit and wine industries is strong, the red meat sector is solid, albeit with some pressure on lamb prices, the honey industry is going from strength to strength and new initiatives such as the fledgling dairy sheep industry, is attracting genuine long-term investment.

BUYING

Call to discuss the best method to sell your property

OR

SELLING? With my knowledge and experience let me help you to purchase that special property

Jon McAuliffe M 027 432 7769 E jon.mcauliffe@bayleys.co.nz

Whalan and Partners Ltd, Bayleys, Licensed under the REA Act 2008

“The highest number of sales in the three months to December was for grazing farms which accounted for 41.3 per cent of sales, followed by finishing properties 18.1 per cent, dairy 15.7 per cent and horticultural blocks 12.4 per cent.

Countrywide, the market for lifestyle properties remained bouyant, with 2277 lifestyle properties selling in the three months to December compared to 1769 in the same

period of 2014 and 1687 the previous year.

Auckland accounted for 419 lifestyle sales in the three months to December, followed

by Waikato 380, Northland 261, Canterbury 235 and Bay of Plenty 230.

• The REINZ All Farm Price Index adjusts for differences in farm size, location and farming type, unlike the median price per hectare which does not adjust for these factors.

Mike Preston 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 26

Farming

RURAL REAL ESTATE FEATURE

www.guardianonline.co.nz

Challenging conditions ahead

“

by Rodger Letham

It is a case of quietly finding the right buyer for the right property so I believe there will be sales made successfully and without any fanfare

The New Year gets under way with a mixture of weather conditions for our farmers to contend with.

January saw hot dry nor’ west conditions with temperatures of up to 31 degrees and also cool easterly conditions with rain around 50 to 60mm in some areas over a period of three days.

Hopefully harvest can get under way, but the rain will have helped maintain production on stock and dairy farms.

The farm market is firm rather than spectacular and demand varies depending on the type and location of the properties.With some uncertainty as to future dairy payout prices there is a “wait and see” attitude from some buyers.

Since November 2015 we have sold four dairy farms and three arable farms with values holding up well compared to previous sales, although a slight softening in some quarters.

A change in farm use seems

Rodger Letham is an established and leading rural real estate specialist.

to also to be appearing with a dairy farm in Mid Canterbury and another in South Canterbury being converted back to stock breeding and fattening farms.

Capital is readily available and softening interest rates is helping. There are a number of clients who have indicated a desire to sell, but do not

wish to have their properties formally marketed, so there is opportunity out there for anyone looking to buy.

It is a case of quietly finding the right buyer for the right property, so I believe there will be sales made successfully and without any fanfare.

The year will be challenging for all of our clients associated

with the rural sector, but our businesses and farmers have all seen challenging conditions before.

They are resilient and enterprising people, and we have the advantage living and working in one of, if not the best place, in the world.

Best wishes to all for the remainder of 2016.

propertybrokers.co.nz

The Strength of an International Network

With one billion serious savers and more than a millon millionaires, a new generation of Chinese investors are making their presence felt in the Australian/New Zealand property market. So Ray White is making our presence felt in Asia.

The Ray White Group has signed a strategic partnership agreement to market all of its residential, commercial and rural real estate listings in New Zealand, Australia and indonesia in the Chinese language exclusively on Juwai.com, the NO. 1 Chinese international property portal.

This is a significant strengthening of existing ties between Ray White and Juwai.com. Besides tying Ray White exclusively to Juwai.com, it provides every Ray White office with extra tools to service their vendors, including upgrades to their listings and branding, advertorials, feature properties, email direct marketing, professional translation and Chinese language brochures, websites and mobile sites.

Carey smith, CEO of Ray White New Zealand, says the agreement makes Juwai.com an exclusive Chinese partner, and will lead to new transactions and better outcomes in Ray White offices across the country.

China is New Zealands largest source of offshore property buyers. with 25 per cent of all offshore sales.

Ray White knows how to get you the best price for your property!

108 Smithfield Road, Ashburton

What an opportunity, subdivide or land bank. * 3.39 Ha divided into 3 paddocks * Zoned Residential D * Underground water main for irrigation and stock water * Deer fenced all round * Great shelter provided by mature poplars * Family home with 4 bedrooms and 2 living areas * New compliant log burner * Double garaging, two bay workshop and near new 3 bay hay shed.

A modest 4 bedroom home with open plan dining that flows through to a large sunny lounge with a new log burner to keep you warm in the winter months. Off the hallway you will find a separate toilet, a bathroom with shower over bath, 2 double bedrooms, a single bedroom or office plus a large master bedroom.

For Sale POA + GST (if any) rwashburton.co.nz/AHB21033 Ashburton Office 03 307 8317 Mid Canterbury Real Estate Limited LICENSED (REAA 2008) Surveying and Engineering by

CAWTON GROVE

N

SubdivisionĂŠStageĂŠ1

N O O

Titles due out early 2016

Kelburn Place

CO

S

Cawton Grove

376 Racecourse Road, Ashburton

MI

NG

Stage 2

10 Murneys Lane, Lake Hood

144 Tinwald Westerfield Mayfield Road

Deadline sale closing 2pm 26th February 2016

For Sale POA

rwashburton.co.nz/AHB20979

rwashburton.co.nz/AHB20984

rwashburton.co.nz/AHB21023

954 Longbeach Road, Ashburton

30 Dunford Street, Rakaia

82 Hoods Road, Mt Somers

For Sale $400,000

Motivated vendors say bring us your best offer

* A stylish, country feel kitchen that embraces entertaining * Large open plan living with several seating areas * 4 double bedrooms, master with walk in robe and en suite Deadline sale closing 25th February at 2pm (USP)

rwashburton.co.nz/AHB21040

rwashburton.co.nz/AHB21016

rwashburton.co.nz/

Very Seldom do properties of this ilk come to the market.

Located on racecourse road, this 5 acre block has it all from fruit to walnut trees, horse training track and separate entrance into the yard. The house boasts a 2 year old designer kitchen while the living areas capture all day sun. $695,000

* Modernised throughout * 3 bedrooms * Open plan kitch/din/living * Heat pump + HRV system * Large garage with 3 phase power * Electric fence unit Offers over $380,000 rwashburton.co.nz/

Featuring 1.76 ha of prime land with a great building platform all ready for you to build your dream home. Fully serviced. Quality homes nearby. Close to all the amenities Lake Hood has to offer.

Superbly situated in a quiet street yet located just a short walk from the center of Rakaia is this wonderful property that presents a brilliant opportunity to secure a very nice well-presented Family home.

This 11 hectare property is in need of a new owner. Great solid 4 bedroom home with office and ensuite, 4 grain silos, sheep yards, shearing machine plant and a big workshop area with 3 phase power.

* 3 sizable bedrooms with built in wardrobes * Modernised kitchen * Tidy bathroom with separate shower within laundry * Double garage with secluded setting

Tarbottons Road

7 Millstream Lane, Ashburton

2 28

Farming

CONTRACTING AND EARTHMOVING FEATURE

www.guardianonline.co.nz

Responsibility for safety falls back on farmers Whether you own a farm or manage it, you are responsible for the health and safety of everyone on the property, this includes contractors and self-employed operators, not just employees.

While everyone has a responsibility to work safely and identify and report hazards, someone still needs to manage and co-ordinate the overall health and safety programme – and at the end of the day the buck stops with you.

Contracting the job out is not always the easiest option - it doesn’t remove your overriding obligations when it comes to health and safety.

And there’s not only contractors or self-employed personnel to consider.

Visitors also need to be kept safe on the farm.

Health and safety regulations also extend to family members, including children.

The Department of Labour offers the following advice:

• Take all practicable steps to ensure that no contractor, subcontractor or employee of a contractor is harmed

while doing any work for you.

• Check that contractors or selfemployed workers have systems in place to manage their own health and safety requirements.

For example, using protective clothing or using scaffolding instead of ladders when required for health and safety reasons.

• Ensure only authorised people have access to the workplace, and that they are made aware of hazards, or provided with appropriate supervision.

• Check that all parties know how to take responsibility for reporting any hazards they become aware of and know the appropriate person to report to in your business.

How to make your expectations clear:

• Clearly outline in writing what you expect on your work sites by including health and safety expectations in any agreements with contractors.

• Develop a health and safety checklist for contractors. All contractors coming on to your

•

•

•

•

property for the first time should read, sign and date the checklist before starting any work.

Ask contractors and self-employed workers for a written overview of their health and safety systems. The responsibility is on all parties involved to take care.

Review any health and safety issues after a contractor’s work is completed to determine what, if any, improvements can be made.

Make staff aware that they share responsibility for the safety of friends or family visiting the farm.

Signs can be useful to help visitors understand the risks they may face but don’t rely on them.

It’s more important for you to manage both hazards and work activities to prevent harm to visitors.

JACOB HOLDAWAY CONTRACTING LTD WE SPECIALISE IN: • Silage and straw baling • Mowing, tedding, rotor-raking, carting and silage wrapping • Fodder beet drilling • Fodder beet harvesting

• All cultivation work - ploughing, rolling, levelling, plus a Sunflower and Sumo to achieve the best results • Trading in supplementary feeds

For quality work at a competitive rate call me today.

Jacob Holdaway 0274 225 464 www.jholdawaycontracting.com

www.guardianonline.co.nz

Health and safety – the legalities As a principal to a contract, you are liable for the health and safety of contractors under the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992.

If you fail in your duty the Act provides for substantial penalties.

If you are in business and contract people or businesses to do work for you, then you will have duties as a principal under the Act. Putting work out to contract doesn’t remove your health and safety obligations.

You cannot pass on a legal duty that falls on you as an employer, a person in control of a place of work, or a principal in terms of the Act. The aim of the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 (the Act) is the prevention of harm to people at work or as a result of work activities.

To do this, the Act places a range of duties and responsibilities on people in the workplace to manage hazards and ensure work is done safely.

The Act creates a duty requiring principals to a contract to take “all practicable steps” to ensure contractors, subcontractors and their employees are not harmed while undertaking work under the contract. www.business.govt.nz/worksafe

CONTRACTING AND EARTHMOVING FEATURE

29

Farming

2 30

www.guardianonline.co.nz

CONTRACTING AND EARTHMOVING FEATURE

A win for Rural Cont Agricultural contractors around New Zealand will soon be able to bring in overseas workers much easier than in the past - following a deal struck between its national body and Immigration NZ. Rural Contractors NZ (RCNZ) president Steve Levet says his organisation has been working with Immigration New Zealand for a long time in an effort to resolve the problems around contractors bringing in overseas workers for the harvest season.

“After many meetings and a lot of hard work by RCNZ – together with Immigration NZ – we believe we have come up with a solution that will solve many of the problems that rural contractors currently experience every year and make it much easier to bring in overseas workers,” Mr Levet said.

“Members who are registered with RCNZ will now be able to apply to bring in overseas workers under our umbrella, rather than go through all the hoops and hurdles they currently have to as individuals.”

We are the experts in:

Underpasses Laneways Effluent Ponds

Mr Levet described the new scheme as great news for the sector and believes it will streamline and simplify the whole process of bringing in overseas workers – rather than the current rigmarole

“

AIP, there are a number of responsibilities placed on us and it will be important that all those contractors who wish to use this scheme comply with all these conditions and requirements,” Mr Levet said.

Members who are registered with RCNZ will now be able to apply to bring in overseas workers under our umbrella, rather than go through all the hoops and hurdles they currently have to as individuals

agricultural contractors currently have to endure.

RCNZ will gain an Approval in Principle (AIP) agreement on behalf of all members of the national body and contractors.

Contractors will then be able to apply online for a visa for the person being recruited – without having to advertise, go to or any the other requirements currently causing so much difficulty.

“As RCNZ will hold the

“There will need to be a written contract between RCNZ and each member company participating in the scheme – to ensure each knows their responsibilities and that RCNZ and other member companies are protected.

If these conditions are not complied with, the AIP can be rescinded.”

These conditions include that the AIP is only available members of RCNZ and that the contractor or company

PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTING MADE EASY helping our clients achieve EXCELLENT results

Phone Dave Rowlands 027 484 1114

C O R E S E RCONTRACTING V I C E S MADE EA PROFESSIONAL

Diesel Workshop direct line: 308 7400

PHILOSOPHY “Grant Hood Contracting Ltd’s philosophy is to provide our clients with superior value and a solution to their contracting needs.

Environmental Award winners

our clients achieve EXCELLENT re The core services we offer toPhelping our clients are: H I L O S O P HP Y H I L O S O P H Y

PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTING and Construction “Grant Hood Contracting Ltd’s

“Grant Hood Contracting Ltd’s

provide our clients philosophy is to provide our clients  DairyNZ accredited Efflphilosophy uentis toPond Design

with superior value and a solutionwith to superior value and a solution to

their contracting needs. helping our clients achie  Pond Construction and Irrigation Development  Hedge & Stump Removal  Farm Conversions CORE SERVICES Thecore services Tracks we offer to our clients are: Dairy - Lime or Gravel  Pump HireEffluent Pond Design and Construction Pump Hire DairyNZ accredited  Wells & Galleries Wells & Galleries Pond Construction and Irrigation Development  Bulk REarthworks ERemoval SERVICES Bulk Earthworks HedgeC&O Stump R 2 012 R 2 013 The core services we offer to our clients are:  Subdivisions NE NE Sub Divisions Farm Conversions ental  Site Works ental irNoEWRnAm iroWnAmRD Dairy Tracks - Lime or Gravel Effluent 2 0R1D - and Site R 2 01Pond Pump Hi DairyNZ accredited Construction EnvDesign EnvWorks 2 3 NE A -A  Tree Shear W W 2 IN NER 2 I NNER Transportation RD RD Wells & Pond Construction and Irrigation Development - AWA - AWA  Transportation W W IN IN R2 R2 their contracting needs.

peers have recognised this fact for the second year in a row.”

3

WI N

01

01 3

01

WI N

2

192 Racecourse Rd, Ashburton 03 308 0287 or 0274 832 712

3

01

Member of

2

Member of

01

Ashburton Contracting Limited

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

PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTING PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTING MADE EASY MADE EASY

WI N

Gold

Sponsor

01

WI N

2

WI N

WI N

the 2nd year in a row Toforachieve this we will always provide “We consider the excellence service, environmentin for all works we undertake workmanship in and are proud our NE NE Environmental Award winners a professional peers have recognised Hedge & Stump Removal 192 Racecourse Rd, Ashburton for thefact2nd for year the in a row this manner from our second year in a row.”

03 308 0287 or 0274 832 712 Farm Conversions highly experienced www.granthoodcontracting.co.nz Dairy Tracks - Lime or Gravel R 2 012 R 2 013 “We consider dedicated team the NE NE environment for all of operators and 832 works we undertake 192 Racecourse Rd, Ashburton 03 308- 0287 RD - or 0274WA RD - 712 AWA -A W W management” 2 www.granthoodcontracting.co.nz IN NER IN NER 2 and are proud our

Bulk Ear

Sub Divi

Site Wor Transpo

www.guardianonline.co.nz

CONTRACTING AND EARTHMOVING FEATURE

31

ractors NZ must also hold Registered Contractor accreditation with the national body.

“This is a safeguard to ensure that the appropriate statutory and regulatory compliances are being met,” Mr Levet explained. “Those applying to the scheme will also have to fully comply with RCNZ’s Code of Ethics and our Code for Employing Overseas Staff.”

Mr Levet added that – due to the amount of the work involved in setting up the new scheme and the imminent start of the new season – RCNZ aims to have it up and running

by June 1, 2016.

It is not known exactly how many temporary, overseas workers are needed by rural contractors each year, but it is thought to be around 900.

“Every year, in many parts of the country, it’s often impossible for rural contractors to find skilled New Zealanders to carry out this seasonal work,” Mr Levet said.

“That’s why it is necessary for us to look overseas to find experienced people to fill this need.”

Steve Levet.

Get your hectares locked in, operating now in Mid Canterbury Massey Ferguson 2170 XD high density baler

New MacDon Windrower

• 16’ specialty ryegrass auger front • 15’ draper front • Family owned and operated contract windrowing with 20 years’ experience • Experienced seed growers ourselves • Fully kitted with double knife drive, stub guards, crop roller, forming rods and side knives • GPS auto-steer guidance • Reliable service, quality job

Operating: • 4x3 Massey Fergusson 2170 XD • 3x3 Massey Ferguson 2150 • Roto Rake, Vee Rakes, Wrapper Family owned & operated business servicing the district for the past 15 years

Please phone for options to market your straw “Quality workmanship, full accountability”

“We bale, you sell”

Call Ross Tait Contracting

James 027 558 7205 | Hamish 027 430 5885 Ross 027 430 5884 | Email taitrj@xtra.co.nz

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

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

2 32

Farming

www.guardianonline.co.nz

CONTRACTING AND EARTHMOVING FEATURE

Consistently delivering Kamac Contracting are Mid Canterbury’s specialist drilling and cultivation contractors.

We are a family owned and operated business run by Cameron and Bryce Horne.

Our competitive advantage is we can provide personal service to all their clients, where you will be dealing with the owner, not a middle person. We work with farmers in all sectors thoughtout Mid Canterbury arable, sheep and beef, cropping, dairy and large corporate operations.

As a business we believe it is important to keep up-to-date with the latest technology in the agricultural industry, which allows us to provided up-to-date crop choices that benefit our clients.

Kamac Contracting’s commitment to using the latest up-to-date technology led to the purchase of the custom built 6m Allens Triple Disc Drill. We wanted to know that we were getting the very best machine on the market to suit our contracting needs and most importantly our clients’ needs.

The Allens drill has three

key features that have helped improve our service to our clients.

The Allens drill can do 6 inch, 12 inch and 18 inch, also for an example it can do a 12inch clover with grass in between rows (the grass is for a wind protector between clover rows if preferred).

It also has pack wheels

which eliminates wheel marks. We are also able to put insecticides, fertilisers and slug bait on with seed.

The Allens drill was designed for various conditions, from compact dry soils to those with high levels of residue, to consistently deliver cost effective crop and pasture establishment.

Kamac Contracting also offer a wide range of other services from cultivation, ripping, discing, rolling, maxi tilling and ploughing.

We pride ourselves on excellent service and communication with our clients as well as making sure we follow through with the whole job.

CONTACT KAMAC CONTRACTING

As a family business, we get a job in the morning and we can be flexible to ensure the job is completed to the highest standard and on time.

If you would like to find out why Kamac Contracting are the perfect fit for your farming operation, call Cameron today on 027 314 4891 or visit kamaccontracting.co.nz.

027 314 4891

PROUD FAMILY BUSINESS CONTACT US Get in touch with us today for more information on the services we provide and how we can help you.

Contact Kamac Contracting info@kamaccontracting.co.nz www.fb.com/kamaccontracting

Connect with us Cameron Horne 027 314 4891 Bryce Horne 027 434 1938

<

CONTRACTING AND EARTHMOVING FEATURE

53 May Brothers

<

mber 14, 2015 5:23 PM

53 May Brothers

OOF SIGN OFF

<

mber 14, 2015 5:23 PM

PLEASE CHECK ALL CONTENT & DESIGN CAREFULLY

33

2 34

Farming

Exceptional service G. Cameron Contracting are a locally owned digger contracting business that operates out of Rakaia, and around the wider Canterbury area. Graeme Cameron started the business in 2006 and quickly established a reputation for quality and timeliness of job, at a very competitive rate.

In 2013 Graeme saw the need to expand the business to keep up with demand. This is when Hayden Foster came on board. GCC now operates two 14 tonne Hyundai Wheel Diggers, one 22 tonne Hyundai Track Digger, and is supported by a nine cubic meter tip truck for all cartage requirements. With combined experience of over 40 years, Graeme and Hayden still maintain the values of quality of job in a timely fashion.

GCC’s business revolves around agriculture, and rural application.

They service a variety of business types including, but not limited to, sheep & beef, arable farms, horticultural businesses, dairy and dairy support, and lifestyle blocks.

The Track Digger is equipped with a power clamp (thumb). And all the diggers are equipped with tilt buckets, digging buckets, and root rakes.

www.guardianonline.co.nz

CONTRACTING AND EARTHMOVING FEATURE

The wheel diggers are also equipped with grapples, and a clam shell attachment.

GCC’s services also include: mainline and stock water trenching and recovery, tree and stump removal, gorse & hedge removal, root raking, water & irrigation race cleaning, soak holes, on farm gravel screening using grizzly screen and cartage, calf shed cleaning, sheep yard cleaning, landscaping, driveways, & general farm work. Graeme or Hayden are more than happy to give an obligationfree quote at any time.

We guarantee our work Located in Christchurch, New Zealand, Paul’s Excavation Services have the equipment on hand to service any area Canterbury wide. We are industry specialists offering high quality FULLY GUARANTEED design and build services.

Paul’s Excavation Services will excavate your site to prepare for your home or commercial building project including levelling, trenching, foundation preparation, drainage, building or wall footings and foundations we are also specialists in tennis courts and swimming pools.

Demolition Modern building techniques involve increasingly complex structures.

The demolition industry has evolved so that modern structures can be safely and efficiently demolished.

Whether you require a full or partial demolition, we are experts

in Christchurch residential and commercial demolition.

From brick and rubble removal to demolition of residential or commercial buildings, we have the experience, skills and equipment needed to successfully complete any job.

Section clearing From site preparation to section clearing and levelling, we can help. Our services include Tree and stump removal, rubbish removal,levelling,trenching.

Excavator hire We hire excavators and diggers in Christchurch suitable for your construction and earthmoving requirements.

Whether you need an excavator for digging foundations, lifting and placing pipes, driveways, relocating heavy objects or undertaking demolition work, Paul’s Excavation can provide you with a suitable excavator to do the job.

We have a range of 20, 12, 5.5 ,5 and 2 tonne excavators available.

For your needs today call Sarah and Steve on phone: 03 325 7922 , mobile: 021 338 247 or email epsltd@xtra.co.nz

SPECIAL FEATURES FOR EARTHMOVING • Access • Leveling • Trenching • Foundation preparation • Drainage Earthmoving & excavation services:

22 ton Hyundai track digger

• Root raking • Tree & stump removal • Irrigation mainline & stock water trenching & recovery • Water & irrigation race cleaning • Cleaning large canals • Excavation of irrigation & effluent ponds

Ideal for tree removal & trenching • Custom built root rake • Larger ripper • Digging, trenching & tilt buckets

• Building or wall footings and foundations WE ARE ALSO SPECIALISTS IN TENNIS COURTS AND SWIMMING POOLS

CONTACT US TODAY

304 LEADLEY RD

Prebbleton

S...

TO DISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENT

P 03 325 7922 M 021 338 247 E epsltd@xtra.co.nz

www.guardianonline.co.nz

CONTRACTING AND EARTHMOVING FEATURE

35

High standards and top machinery With an increasing desire to become self employed and a passion for machinery and the land, Tim Lovett and his wife Caroline have been steadily building their business.

“

(Tim) sets high standards and says that ... customers are assured a top quality job that will be delivered on time.

Starting in 2009, Tim bought his first John Deere 7200 maxi merge 8 row maize planter and John Deere side dresser for inter row cultivation in maize and sweetcorn. Tim later was the first to import a Kinze 3600 12-row maize planter with liquid fertiliser

into Mid Canterbury and built an Orthoman John Deere 20 inch beet drill with 12 rows.

TC Lovett Agri Ltd was updated from a partnership title to company in 2012, which also operates as Lovett Windrowing since recently purchasing a new John Deere W150 windrower (MacDon

155 equivalent) - the only one in New Zealand - and in a short space of time has built a steady profile. Tim now has a steady flow of work, with clients stretching from the Rakaia Gorge to Fairlie, and from the foothills to the sea.

This season might have been marred by unpredictable

weather, but Tim says he’s happy with the way business is ticking over. He sets high standards and says that by using top-of-theline machinery and with a commitment to quality work customers are assured a top quality job that will be delivered on time.

Like all contractors, Tim’s greatest enemy is the weather, but he says he’s committed to being ready to roll as soon as the sun shines.

Contracting is a competitive business, but Tim says he’s committed to delivering top service and a top job at a fair price for a fair day’s work.

A FAIR PRICE FOR A FAIR DAY’S WORK

TC LOVETT WINDROWING

PHONE 021 062 9202

Farming

2 36

www.guardianonline.co.nz

CONTRACTING AND EARTHMOVING FEATURE

Earthworks and shingle supply Ellesmere Excavation and Aggregate Limited was first formed in August 1996 simply as Ellesmere Excavation. In 2009 we opened our quarry which is situated in the Rakaia Riverbed, not far from the Rakaia Bridge. Our business name changed to Ellesmere Excavation and Aggregate Limited.

“

You will be pleasantly surprised with our competitive rates

We are a husband and wife team Sandy and Leanne Shirtcliff, with three full time employees and two contracted workers. Our staff Stu, Pete and Neil are all experienced in their field of work, whether it’s operating an excavator, grader or loader to driving a truck or truck and trailer unit.

Sandy is also an experienced excavator operator and is at present managing the quarry.

Leanne has always been our office manager and is also our go-to person for other odd jobs.

We specialise in a wide range of products from our quarry. We supply river shingle, all grades of crushed and screened material, drainage chip, crusher dust, premix, boulders, tailings,

assorted graded aggregates and our very own 2A Sand which is widely used for drainage and more. We also have a material especially designed for pivot ruts. We supply all materials ex river or we are more than happy to deliver at very competitive rates.

We work with both residential and commercial customers from new house sites, farm track maintenance

and ponds, mainline repairs horse arenas to factory sites and extensions. We have a vast area for which we cover.

We travel as far a Hanmer Springs, Pleasant Point, and Akaroa as well as Ashburton and Selwyn districts and of course Christchurch. Some of our major contracts include Synlait Milk Factory where we supplied all material required and controlled / operated all earthworks for

drystore 2. Sabys Road culvert is another of our larger projects, we diverted a stream to replace the culvert and prepare the road for sealing.

So for your excavation requirements and/or for any shingle supplies please contact Sandy on 027 438 9576. You will be pleasantly surprised with our competitive rates in both our earthworks and shingle supply.

CATERING FOR ALL YOUR MAINTENANCE NEEDS NOW • Competitive prices • Available for commercial/rural needs • A wide range of aggregate supplies Your aggregate & excavation specialist Pick up ex river or we deliver

ELLESMERE EXCAVATION AND AGGREGATE LIMITED Phone Sandy 027 438 9576 | Quarry hours 8am – 5pm weekdays

www.guardianonline.co.nz

37

Does your horse have ‘gut issues’?

If you are having to feed products for gut health then you need to look at your horse’s forage (his grass and hay intake).

The most common cause of gut or digestive problems including ulcers is unsuitable, insufficient grass or hay. The fibre content of vegetative (green growing) grass is inadequate compared to mature grass or hay.

The fibre intake from very bare paddock is non-existent and therefore unless you are supplementing with hay it is tantamount to starvation, you are certainly starving the hind-gut flora which is very detrimental to the health of the horse.

Remember the key to calm, healthy horses is to correctly feed the flora in the hindgut.

The flora in the hind gut need fibre to ferment and the by-products of this process are actually what in turn feeds the horse. Therefore it is your responsibility to ensure the flora in the hind-gut have a constant supply of fibre!

The flora consist of a diverse array of microbes,

Jenny Paterson

very detrimental to the hindgut flora: • Not getting enough fibre in the diet. The horse needs a constant supply so he can trickle feed. This keeps both he and the flora contented!

• Long periods without any feed – meaning anything over 3-4 hours. Use slowfeeder hay-nets to slow hay consumption without depriving them. To a horse all is good if he has something to chew on. It is very hard on a horse mentally and physically to have NOTHING to eat and occupy himself with for hours on end (like overnight).

• High potassium feeds and forages – these promote the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms in the hindgut which produce toxic byproducts such as ammonia • Sudden changes of diet – including a change of paddock or the grass changing from brown to green overnight as happened recently!

• Sugar and starch overload – can be pushed on into the

BSC ZOOLOGY AND BIOLOGY

including bacteria, protozoa & anaerobic fungi, all of which work together to ferment fibre for the horse. Any disruption or sudden change to the balance of the microbial populations can have farreaching consequences for the horse’s health and behaviour.

Sugars, starches, and carbohydrates from grains and extruded, processed feeds are not at all suitable to feed the hind-gut flora.

Under normal circumstances they are processed in the small intestines well before the hind-gut compartments.

However when there is any kind of sugar over-load they are pushed undigested into the hind-gut where they wreak havoc with the microbial populations. This is also the

Use large size hay-savers with small mesh to make sure horses don’t run out of hay.

case with fertilised forage which has a high content of potassium and nitrates. You will soon see problems arise from loose manure to the development of various health issues including laminitis.

The following are therefore

hindgut and upset the flora • Drenches and antibiotics can be devastating to hindgut flora • Stress and anxiety- can have an instant effect on the hind-gut environment and cause loose manure • Moulds and Mycotoxins – feeding an appropriate toxin-binder will improve feed quality for the flora • Poor dentition which interferes with proper chewing • Noxious Weeds (eaten when feed is in short supply) The best indication of good gut flora health is the horse’s manure which should be brownish and fibrous rather than green and soft or loose. If your horse has had episodes where his hind-gut flora have been adversely affected then by all means help restore balance with pre and probiotics but most importantly ensure 24/7 access to nice, long grass or hay!

If you are keeping horses on small blocks the best thing you can do is stock up your hay supplies.

MID CANTERBURY’S HYDRAULIC SPECIALISTS

Provide it TM

Parts you can trust with a service to keep you going

Quality on-call service available • Mono block valves - single and multi section • Sectional valves - allow a valve to be custom built to suit your application • Various control kits available • Electrical controlled mono block valves common to feed out wagon application • Diverter valves • Rotary - lever operated • Spool type - Cam operated • Spool type - Electrical control • The DPC Series is a family of open/closed centre pressure compensated valves designed specifically for mobile applications.

• The DPX Series with the benefit of Flow Sharing technology

Spool valves from Walvoil New Zealand’s leading supplier of Walvoil hydraulic products and components.

Call Justin Bennett 027 5301 272 Wayne Drake 027 530 1275 Shop 24/7 03 308 9778 104 Moore Street, Ashburton justin@martinbennett.co.nz

Eaton Aeroquip hose and fittings available

Farming

2 38

www.guardianonline.co.nz

FARM TECHNOLOGY FEATURE

Agricultural apps With the number of apps handy in farming situations growing rapidly, it’s next to impossible to troll through the latest options claiming to help us work smarter and more productively.

The following apps are a just handful of those which impressed in 2015 or are due for release this year.

Spirit level app

Area Calculator App

Unit Converter

GPS Speedometer

FREE FOR ANDROID OR IPHONE

FREE FOR ANDROID OR IPHONE

FREE FOR ANDROID OR IPHONE

FREE FOR ANDROID OR IPHONE

APP FOR ANDROID OR IPHONE

Rating 4/5

Rating 3/5

Rating 4/5

Rating 4/5

Rating 4/5

You may be surprised how often you need a level on a farm, or around the house, until you’re packing one in your cellphone. Just calibrate and keep a level head wherever you go.

Need to verify the size of paddocks or buildings? A simple interface built into this app takes GPS points and delivers the exact size of any area.

This is the must-have app for all those tricky conversions – transform acres to hectares, inches to centimetres, feet to metres or pounds to kilograms in the blink of an eye.

One of the BEST rural broadband deals!

Ruralco Wireless 250Gb Plan for $89 Includes 125Gb Peak/125Gb off peak data on Ruralnet & UFW Wireless Services

Call us today on 0800 004 840 for more exclusive Ruralco Member Broadband deals, simply too HOT to print.

Is your speedo accurate? Don’t get caught out – this app will let you know the speed you are really travelling at and sound an alarm when you exceed the limit.

Altimeter (altitude) This nifty app turns your smartphone into an altimeter, with added features such as a compass, GPS positioning, and sunrise and sunset times.

PRoviDiNG TWo Way Mo CoMMuNiCaTioNS & NeTW PRoviDiNG TWo Way MobiLe forWay safety and bette PRoviDiNG TWo MobiLe CoMMuNiCaTioNS & NeTWoRkS for safety and better communication on the f CoMMuNiCaTioNS & NeTWoRkS communication on the farm

forNew safety and better Digital Radio technology offers extra sa communication the farm such as Loneon Worker, Man Down and GPS

New Digital Radio technology offers extra safety features such as Lone Worker, Man Down and GPS Location

New Digital Radio technology offers extra safety features such as Lone Worker, Man Down and GPS Location For professional advice and competitive pricing

108 Le Cren Street, Timaru PH 03 684 4988

For professional advice and competitive For professional advice and competitive pricing

108 Le Cren Street, Timaru PH 03 68

108 Le Cren Street, Timaru PH 03 684 4988

www.guardianonline.co.nz

FARM TECHNOLOGY FEATURE

39

Emerging agricultural technologies Livestock biometrics:

Closed ecological systems: Ecosystems

Collars with GPS, RFID and biometrics can automatically identify and relay vital information about the livestock in real time.

that do not rely on matter exchange outside the system.

Such closed ecosystems would theoretically transform waste products into oxygen, food and water in order to support lifeforms inhabiting the system.

Such systems already exist in small scales, but existing technological limitations prevent them from scaling.

Crop sensors: Instead of prescribing field fertilisation before application, highresolution crop sensors inform application equipment of correct amounts needed.

Optical sensors or drones are able to identify crop health across the field (for example, by using infra-red light).

Synthetic biology:

Genetically designed food: The creation of entirely new strains of food, animals and plants in order to better address biological and physiological needs. A departure from genetically modified food, genetically designed food would be engineered from the ground up.

In vitro meat: Also known as cultured meat or tubesteak, it is a flesh product that has never been part of a complete, living animal.

Several current research

projects are growing in vitro meat experimentally.

Agricultural robots: Also known as agbots, these are used to automate agricultural processes, such as harvesting, fruit picking,

ploughing, soil maintenance, weeding, planting, irrigation, etc.

Robotic farm swarms: The hypothetical combination of dozens or hundreds of agricultural robots with

How is your season going?

Alvan Blanch Driers are operating throughout New Zealand If you wish to view one operating this season contact us today!

thousands of microscopic sensors, which together would monitor, predict, cultivate and extract crops from the land with practically no human intervention. Small-scale implementations are already on the horizon.

TRAILERS

Synthetic biology is about programming biology using standardised parts as one programs computers using standardised libraries today. Includes the broad redefinition and expansion of biotechnology, with the ultimate goals of being able to design, build and remediate engineered biological systems that process information, manipulate chemicals, fabricate materials and structures, produce energy, provide food, and maintain and enhance human health and our environment.

Source: Businessweek

Single and Tandem Axle

MADE IN NZ

Different size options as well as extras available

NATIONAL SALES

HAMILTON • RAKAIA • INVERCARGILL 0800 474 567 • www.relgroup.co.nz

12 months warranty and WOF supplied

Call Allan on 308 4867 today for more information 92 Dobson Street, Ashburton Phone 308 4867 Mon-Fri 7am-5pm; Sat 8am-12pm

You set the speed and direction you want to go and the tractor does the rest Cochrane’s specialising in sales and installation for GPS and auto steer.

COCHRANES

your farm machinery specialist

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

LIQUID WASTE MANAGEMENT

Rakaia 0800 372 004 Christchurch (03) 349 8871 robsonenviro@xtra.co.nz www.robsonenvironmental.co.nz

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