Canterbury Farming, January 2026

30,287 copies distributed monthly – to every rural mailbox in Canterbury and the West Coast for over 25 years

January 2026 Edition

INSIDE

THIS EDITION Regenerative farming

p3 Rural training pilot

p12 Record cow season Mega grower: South Island based Puro is new Zealand’s largest medicinal cannabis operation with major distribution agreements in australia and the united Kingdom, including a $16 million export deal with uK distributor IPS Pharma for what will be the world’s largest organic cannabis shipment.

Puro wins Supreme Award p17 The team behind the country’s largest cannabis cultivator, Puro, are celebrating after being crowned Supreme Award winner at the Marlborough Business Excellence Awards.

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p20

] by Kent Caddick Puro is New Zealand’s largest medicinal cannabis cultivator, producing certified organic, pharmaceutical-grade cannabis and extracts at facilities in Marlborough.

The company supplies customers in New Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom, and is pioneering sustainable cultivation methods through outdoor organic production, advanced genetics breeding, and innovative post-harvest technology.

Puro, co-founded by Sank Macfarlane and Tim Aldridge, won the Excellence in Primary Industries Award and was a finalist in the Excellence in Innovation and Excellence in Sustainability Awards, before claiming the Supreme Award, marking a watershed moment for the region’s emerging industry.

“We’re two lads from Blenheim taking Marlborough to the world” said Tim Aldridge, Puro’s Chairman.

“Growing up, we’ve watched Marlborough become synonymous with premium Sauvi-

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gnon Blanc which has been an incredible success story,” Aldridge said.

“In 1990, New Zealand exported $18 million of wine. Today that number sits over $2.5 billion, with 80% produced right here in Marlborough.

“We want Marlborough medical cannabis to become as trusted and respected as Marlborough wine, and these awards recognise we’re on the right track.”

TO PAGE 2

2 January 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING

FARMING NEWS

Another year has passed

It does seem that the years click by like the mileage indicator on our cars, but I suppose as we get older a year becomes a smaller percentage of the time we are here.

] with rob Cope-Williams For a five-year-old, a year is the fifth of their lives, for someone my age it is the 76th of my life.

The new year is always a time to look back and assess what has happened. Who we have lost, what things caused grief and what caused delight. What happened that we couldn’t do anything about, and those things that we made happen.

For some the new year will offer new opportunities, others will face what the universe has landed on them.

It is a wee bit sad that the festive season has so much joy and friendship surrounding

it, but a few days later, that wonderful love fades away to a normality that, for some, is like a wet blanket descending.

I have a sign in my office that I read every day: “There comes a time in your life when you walk away from all the dramas and those who cause it. Surround yourself with people who make you laugh. Forget the bad and focus on the good. Love the people who treat you well and pray for those who don’t. Falling down is part of life, getting up again is living.”

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about things and we will see many more new years because of it. remember, a problem shared is a problem halved.

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Aldridge said innovation has been central to Puro’s success.

With research support from the Ministry of Primary Industries the company has pioneered “live drying” technology, flash-freezing cannabis flowers at harvest before freezedrying them. This preserves the plant’s full therapeutic profile while solving harvest bottlenecks and has made Puro the only supplier of live-dried organic medicinal cannabis products globally.

Puro CEO Sank Macfarlane said 2025 had been a breakthrough year for Puro, with major distribution agreements signed in Australia and the United Kingdom, including a $16 million export deal with UK distributor IPS Pharma for what will be the world’s largest organic cannabis shipment.

“Last year Puro exported 75% of all New Zealand medicinal cannabis, three times more than all other licensed producers combined, and we’re scaling up fast,” Macfarlane said.

“We’ll be planting 75,000 seedlings into our organic Kekerengu fields in this season, 60,000 more than we did the year before.

And because we’re growing so much more, we’re also investing in new processing equipment at our purpose-built facility.

“To help us meet surging international demand we’re also developing a contract growing model, similar to Zespri’s kiwifruit framework.

“It’s an approach that will enable more regional landowners and iwi to participate in the industry, creating additional skilled jobs and economic opportunities across Marlborough and the South Island.”

Marlborough Chamber of Commerce Ky-

lie Cornelius said Puro’s awards were welldeserved.

“Despite facing significant regulatory setbacks and challenges, Puro has stayed the course and built something remarkable.

“Their business showcases the best of our region, embraces new technology, invests in skilled local people, and builds on our incredible climate and land. It’s going to be incredibly exciting to watch them grow and continue putting our region on the global stage,” Cornelius said.

Aldridge said Puro is a proud local business who love showcasing Marlborough and Kaikoura to the world.

“These awards belong to our entire team and the communities who have supported us from day one,” he said.

“There’s been some incredibly tough times as we’ve navigated our way through the challenges of starting an industry from scratch, and we’re incredibly grateful to our dedicated staff, our local suppliers, and everyone who believed in what we were setting out to do.

“Marlborough’s wine industry showed the world what this region could achieve with vision, care and courage. We’re proving it can be done again, building a sustainable future for one of New Zealand’s next great primary industries, right here at home.”

Like the wine pioneers before them, Macfarlane and Aldridge identified Marlborough’s unique climate and soils as ideal for producing a premium agricultural product.

Working with globally recognised cannabis agronomist Tom Forrest, whose international research confirmed the region’s potential, they’ve built New Zealand’s largest medicinal cannabis operation.

FARMING NEWS

CANTERBURY FARMING

January 2026

3

Regenerative farming trial at Lincoln Lincoln University and McCain Foods have announced an eight-year collaboration to convert part of the Lincoln University Research Dairy Farm into a future-focused arable and cropping farm.

] by Kent Caddick Named ‘Lincoln University McCain Foods NextGen Regenerative Farm’, the project will establish a 20-hectare regenerative agriculture demonstration farm at LURDF, adjacent to the Lincoln University campus.

The collaboration between McCain Foods and Lincoln University will involve trialling leading regenerative agriculture practices combined with advanced technology on highvalue crops in a 1:8 potato rotation.

The 20-hectare trial block allows for three replicas of both the conventional and regenerative treatments, with each replica designed to support scientific evidence while maintaining industry-relevant scale.

Results will be compared with the current standard agricultural practices in Canterbury.

The trial will last eight years and be open to other collaborative partners.

Professor Alison Bailey, Head of Lincoln University Farms, said the NextGen Regener-

ative Farm will test the impact of arable farm management on soils emerging from pasture, comparing standard farm management to regenerative agricultural practices.

“Canterbury is at the heart of arable and cropping in New Zealand and bringing it back to Lincoln University is a great opportunity for our students, and the industry as a whole, to test the two farming approaches, while at the same time developing a talent pipeline of work-ready graduates to future-proof the sector,” Bailey said.

The eight-year trial will compare regenerative practices with conventional cropping methods in a mixed farm system. It will examine soil health, soil carbon, farm inputs, integrated pest management, water use, crop yields and profitability.

The research team, led by Lincoln University’s Dr Pieter-Willem Hendriks and Tika Schellevis (McCain Foods), is supported by a steering group with farmer and sector representatives ensuring practical applicability.

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Joint venture: The collaboration between McCain Foods and Lincoln university will involve trialling leading regenerative agriculture practices combined with advanced technology on high-value crops.

“Our team’s strength lies in its multidisciplinary expertise, global research experience and strong industry connections, positioning us to tackle the complexities of modern arable farming,” Dr Hendriks said.

“By integrating agronomy, soil and plant sciences, animal health, regenerative sys-

tems, farm management, economics, microbiology and Maori knowledge, we aim to deliver high-impact, sustainable solutions for resilient, future-proof agricultural systems.”

The first crops are expected to be planted in the autumn of 2026.

4 January 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING

HEALTH ON THE FARM

Addressing rising rates of rural obesity GPs are warning that New Zealand needs a new healthcare model to address rising rates of obesity in rural communities, with the current system leaving many patients unable to access effective treatment or long-term support.

] by Kent Caddick New Zealand is the third most obese nation in the OECD, with more than one in three adults classified as obese.

Globally more than half of the increase in obesity since 1985 has been driven by rural populations.

Research into the unique needs of rural New Zealanders living with obesity shows GPs see it as one of the most significant challenges in their communities, but that the health system is not designed to support them.

Dr Kieran Dang, chief medical officer of Moshy, a trans-Tasman network of GPs specialising in the management of obesity through telehealth, agrees that a new healthcare model is urgently needed to respond to rural challenges.

Dang said the key barriers in rural areas include difficulties in communication between doctors and their patients, structural barriers within the healthcare system, and the impact of broader social and cultural environments.

“Too often, people in regional areas struggle to even see a GP, let alone receive specialist weight-management care. Without new approaches designed for rural realities, residents are left at greater risk of serious conditions down the track.”

Dr Dang said a University of Waikato study showed that GPs were often hesitant to raise weight issues for fear of damaging trust in small communities.

“The GPs surveyed also reported a lack of rurally tailored interventions, limited funding and few specialist services as ongoing obstacles.

“Many of them also stressed that the realities of rural life, such as long working hours, poor transport options, scarce access to gyms or fresh produce, and the dominance of fast-food outlets are not recognised at a policy level but strongly influence patient outcomes.”

Dang said obesity must be seen as a systemic health challenge rather than a failing of the individual who is overweight.

“Helping patients lose weight doesn’t just change the number on the scale. It reduces

Wait times: Moshy nZ clinical lead Dr anasuya Vishvanath says rural patients are often waiting up to six weeks to see a GP.

their chances of heart attacks, diabetes, arthritis and mental health decline. The benefits are immense, but only if people can actually access the care they need.”

He said new digital care models such as telehealth allow GPs to meet patients where they are, regardless of postcode, and provide wraparound programmes that combine medical support, dietary advice and patient coaching.

“For rural communities, this is often the only practical way to access consistent, highquality care.”

Dr Anasuya Vishvanath, Moshy NZ clinical lead, said rural patients are often waiting up to six weeks to see a GP, leaving many unable to start treatment or maintain motivation.

She said telehealth is not about replacing GPs but supporting them by handling straightforward cases remotely.

“The current system was never designed for the scale of obesity we’re seeing. A new digitally enabled model that combines medical, social and cultural care is essential to close those gaps,” Dr Vishvanath said.

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FARMING NEWS

January 2026

5

Summer A&P shows abound Entries for the 2026 Cheviot Agricultural & Pastoral Association’s annual show open this month.

] by Kent Caddick The Show will be held in Cheviot on Saturday March 14 with entries opening on January 12 and closing on March 8. Catalogue entries close at midnight on Sunday, February 22.

Show President Kelly Hanna said the theme for 2026 is Young & Old. “Once again, we will have our awesome shearing and wool handling competition with massive prize money up for grabs.

“Sheep are back at the show after going so well last year, and the Giant Pumpkin competition is making a comeback, so join us for a fun-filled family day out and we look forward to seeing you there.”

Also featuring on the programme are: Equestrian events and the return of Showjumping; Duck Herding; Wood Chopping; Kids Agri Skills Competition; Youngest and Oldest at Show along with local entertainment.

The Cheviot Show is just one of the many shows to be held around Canterbury and the West Coast over the Summer months.

Staring the year off will be the Buller A&P Show and the Duvauchelle A&P Show, with both shows being held on January 10, in Westport and Duvauchelle respectively.

Rounding out the month will be the Banks Peninsula A&P Show in Little River on January 24.

Four local shows will be held in February starting with the Inangahua (Reefton) A&P Show at the Reefton Racecourse on February 7. This will be followed by the Muchison A&P Show on February 21, and the Kaikoura A&P and the North Otago A&P shows, both being on February 28.

Sheer delight: This year’s Cheviot a&P Show will once again feature a shearing competition, March will be and extremely busy month for show-goers with the Amuri and the Temuka & Geraldine shows on March 7; Mayfield and Cheviot shows (March 14); Harwarden and Methven shows (March 21) ending with the Malvern A&P Show on March 28 in Sheffield.

The show season will come to a close with the Mackenzie County a&P Show in Fairlie on april 6 and the Oxford a&P Show on april 11.

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6 January 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING

Laura Wood ] with ] LGW Accounting

RURAL PROFESSIONALS

Reconciling profit with your bank accounts

“Why do my financial statements show a profit, but my bank account tells a different story,” is one of the most common questions farmers ask at this time of year.

You get your financial statements back, see a solid profit, and then look at your bank account and wonder where that profit has gone.

The answer usually isn’t that something is wrong, it’s that financial statements and bank balances tell two very different stories.

Financial statements are prepared on an accounting basis, while your bank account reflects real-time cash. Understanding the difference between the two can remove a lot of frustration and help you make better business decisions.

One of the biggest differences comes down to asset purchases and depreciation.

When you buy a tractor, ute, or piece of machinery, the full amount leaves your bank account straight away. That cash is gone. In

your financial statements, however, the cost of that asset is spread over several years through depreciation.

This means your profit might look healthy, even though a large amount of cash has already been spent. From a cash point of view, the hit is immediate; from an accounting point of view, it’s gradual.

Loan repayments are another common culprit. When you make a loan repayment, only the interest portion is treated as an expense in your profit and loss.

The principal portion reduces the loan balance but doesn’t affect profit at all. This often surprises farmers. You might be making significant repayments every month, watching cash leave the bank, yet those payments

don’t show up as an expense in your accounts. The result is a profit on paper, but less cash in hand.

Stock valuations also play a major role, particularly in farming. Livestock, feed, and produce on hand at balance date are valued and included as income in the financial statements, even though no cash has been received yet.

For example, an increase in livestock values can lift profit, but until animals are actually sold, there’s no money in the bank. This is a key reason farm profits can look strong in some years while cash remains tight.

Accruals and timing differences add another layer. Financial statements aim to match income and expenses to the period they relate to, not necessarily when cash changes hands.

Expenses or bills that are dated 30 June but aren’t yet paid for will be included at 30 June in your accounts even if they haven’t been paid yet. Likewise, income can be recorded before it’s received. This gives a more accurate picture of performance, but it does mean profit won’t always line up with cashflow.

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Profit tells you whether the business is viable over time. Cashflow tells you whether the business can pay its bills right now.

None of this means your accounts are wrong. In fact, it means they’re doing their job. Profit tells you whether the business is viable over time. Cashflow tells you whether the business can pay its bills right now. You need both.

A simple cashflow forecast can help explain where the profit has gone and highlight when cash will come back in. Understanding this difference gives you clarity, reduces stress, and puts you in a much stronger position to plan the year ahead with confidence.

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CANTERBURY FARMING

RURAL PROFESSIONALS

January 2026

7

NZ economy turning the corner andrew Wyllie ] with ] Forsyth Barr

After a tough few years, signs of an economic recovery are becoming more evident in New Zealand. The export sector has been a steady source of strength over the past year, with both agricultural and horticultural products generally performing well, supported by firm global commodity prices.

Fonterra delivered a record NZ$10.16 per kilogram of milk solids (kgms) in the 2024/25 season and is forecasting a still-strong NZ$9.50/kgms for the current season.

Farmers have initially used the additional income to reduce debt, but with another strong year expected—and a windfall payment from Fonterra’s consumer business sale—more of that cash is likely to filter through to local communities.

Tourism has also recovered, with international arrivals back to around 90% of preCOVID levels, although the rebound has been slower than in some comparable countries.

In contrast, conditions in Auckland and Wellington have been more subdued. Weaker construction activity, softer housing markets, and low consumer confidence have kept growth muted.

The housing market has been particularly influential, as falling prices tend to erode confidence and dampen household spending.

Zealand (RBNZ) cut the Official Cash Rate (OCR) by 50 basis points in October and a further 25 basis points in November, bringing the OCR down to 2.25%.

More recently, signs of broader improvement have emerged, with business and consumer confidence lifting, retail sales strengthening, and the labour market showing signs of stabilisation.

If this recovery continues to firm, the RBNZ expects to keep interest rates unchanged for a period to allow the economy to consolidate. Barring major economic or financial shocks, the OCR is likely to remain on hold at the current level until at least the end of 2026.

Falling interest rates have eased borrowing costs for mortgages and business loans, providing welcome relief for households and firms facing elevated repayment pressures.

However, the shift in rates has also affected

savers, with returns on cash and term deposits continuing to decline.

With interest rates moving, now may be a good time to review where your savings are held—and consider whether other options could offer a better balance of risk and return.

Better times ahead for New Zealand equities New Zealand’s recent reporting season gave further hints of the cyclical recovery taking hold. Company updates across several domestically exposed sectors point to improving trading conditions.

There is also increasing appeal in New Zealand’s defensive profile of high-quality, dividend-paying companies, particularly as interest rates remain low. Yield-oriented sectors such as infrastructure and property continue to offer comparatively robust in-

come streams, some with the prospect of steady dividend growth.

With interest rates shifting, now could be a good time to review where your savings are parked – and whether other options might offer a better balance between risk and return.

If you would like to review your investments or discuss the market outlook in more detail, please get in touch.

This article was prepared as at 30 november 2025 and provides market commentary for the three-month period ending on that date. andrew Wyllie is an Investment adviser and Forsyth Barr’s Christchurch Manager. He can be contacted regarding portfolio management, fixed interest, or share investments on 0800 367 227 or andrew.wyllie@forsythbarr.co.nz. This column is general in nature, has been prepared in good faith based on information obtained from sources believed to be reliable and accurate, and should not be regarded as financial advice.

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8 January 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING

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CANTERBURY FARMING

RETIREMENT VILL AGES

January 2026

9

From indoor bowls to gardening, Marion’s thriving in retirement When Diane’s mum Marion first mentioned moving to a retirement village, her daughter Diane was stunned.

“It was sooner than I thought she’d ever do it,” Diane says.

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“But then I was really happy. I’m so pleased she moved in while she was physically capable, healthy, and able to enjoy the opportunities. She has a full, rich life and she’s super busy.”

After Marion’s husband Kevin passed away, Diane noticed her mum was shouldering the family home’s upkeep alone.

“Dad was a great handyman, so without him visits to Mum weren’t just about visiting,” Diane recalls.

“It was trips to the rubbish tip, tidying the house, packing up Dad’s belongings, and garden centre stops for plants and mulch.”

Marion, a resident at a Bupa Retirement Village, reflects on her decision to move.

“I was lonely, particularly at night, and thought, what am I going to do about it? The answer was a retirement village, a place with company, friends, and plenty to do, plus the option of care later if needed. That was important to me.”

Once Marion decided to move, Diane stepped in to support her. The process was smooth, Diane notes. “We had good meetings with the village coordinator and plenty of

time to review the documentation.”

When Marion decided on her village, everything fell into place. “She knew where she was going to be, and she was excited,” Diane says.

Marion agrees: “Once I settled in, I felt at home straight away. It’s a small village, everybody knows everybody, and there’s always a good laugh.”

Since moving to Bupa, Marion has flourished. “I always thought she was a bit of an introvert, but she’s in the thick of it with indoor bowls, tenpin bowling, gym classes, even modelling in fashion shows,” Diane says.

Their relationship has also evolved. “Now that Mum’s in the village, we’re spending more quality time together, indoor bowls, museum visits, and picnics at West Auckland beaches,” Diane shares.

Marion adds, “Diane is very kind and caring. I treat her now as a friend, not as one of my children.”

Diane’s siblings Rob and Raewyn, and Raewyn’s husband Mike, also visit Marion at Glenburn, as well as taking her on trips to see family.

Quality time redefined: Sharing a quiet cup of tea in a Bupa retirement Village – enjoying the laughter, friendship, and true connection that village life brings.

Life at Bupa has brought Marion a sense of purpose.

“I’ve taken on the village library and gardening, so I’ve always got something to do.

The garden is just outside my apartment; I love seeing residents come down and help themselves to the produce.”

Marion’s advice to others: “Do it sooner rather than later, when you’re still physical-

ly capable of joining in and enjoying the activities. At a time of life when you can really enjoy it.”

Diane sees the contentment in her mum’s new chapter.

“This season for Mum is about relaxing, having fun, and putting her feet up. The hard work is done, the family’s raised, and she’s in a good place.”

Space, care, and community in Ashburton In Canterbury, people understand the importance of space, integrity, and strong relationships. These values are part of everyday life, and at Terrace View Retirement Village in Ashburton, they guide everything we do. supplied by ] Advertorial ] Terrace View Retirement Village Terrace View is proudly family-owned and operated, and that makes a real difference. Our residents are not just room numbers or names on a list.

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We also provide hospital-level care on site, offering peace of mind for residents and their families. This continuity of care means residents do not have to face unnecessary moves, and couples can often remain close together even if their care needs differ.

Outstanding care sits at the heart of Terrace View. Our dedicated team takes the time to truly know each resident, understanding their preferences, routines, and personal history.

Care is delivered with warmth, dignity, and respect, with a strong focus on quality of life. Families often tell us that the genuine relationships between staff and residents are what set Terrace View apart.

Located in Ashburton, Terrace View is firmly connected to the local community and the wider Canterbury region. We see it as a privilege to care for people who have helped shape this area.

We have been part of the Ashburton community for 12 years, and we look forward to many more. at Terrace View retirement Village, retirement living is about space, personal care, and family values. It is about creating a place that truly feels like home.

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10 January 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING

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CANTERBURY FARMING

January 2026

11

Why rural Canterbury families are choosing The Bellevue For many rural families, the idea of moving a loved one into the city for care can feel daunting. Life on the land comes with a strong sense of independence, familiar routines, and open spaces and there is often concern that these comforts will be lost in an urban environment.

] ]

Advertorial supplied by Hearts & Science New Zealand

But at The Bellevue by Oceania, families are finding that care in the city can still feel personal, grounded and remarkably homely.

Located in Papanui, The Bellevue is a boutique Care Centre designed to offer something quite special: the reassurance of modern clinical support paired with the warmth, friendliness and down-to-earth atmosphere that rural families appreciate.

From the moment you step inside, there’s a sense of calm, helped by beautiful gardens, generous natural light and a genuinely welcoming team.

Good food that feels like home One of the most common considerations for families is whether their loved one will continue to enjoy good, honest food.

At The Bellevue, mealtimes are an important part of the day. Oceania’s culinary team focuses on nourishing, familiar meals made with care, the sort of hearty, comforting dishes many residents have enjoyed throughout their lives.

Morning teas, hot lunches and classic home baked treats help create a sense of routine and enjoyment, offering flavours that feel both homely and satisfying.

A warm welcome to care: The Bellevue is a boutique Care Centre designed to offer something quite special.

A connection to nature even in the city For people who have spent most of their lives outdoors, the shift into Christchurch can feel significant. The Bellevue’s gardens help bridge that gap.

Something very special to The Bellevue are the grounds themselves, framed by towering war memorial trees that lend a sense of history, dignity and beauty to the village.

The gardens have been thoughtfully planted with colourful flowers and lush shrubs, creating peaceful spots to sit and enjoy the fresh air.

The building circles two courtyard gardens, allowing natural light to filter through the Care Suites and giving residents a calming connection to nature throughout the day.

Care that adapts as needs change The Bellevue offers Rest Home, Hospital, Palliative and Respite Care, allowing clinical support to evolve as a person’s needs change.

This continuity is especially valued by families who may be travelling long distances.

Instead of multiple moves or unfamiliar environments, residents can often remain in one place, supported by people who know their routines, preferences and personality.

Oceania’s approach centres on treating every resident as an individual. The care team understands the emotional weight behind a move into care and works closely with families to provide reassurance throughout the journey.

Support to make the move easier Oceania Healthcare recognises that relocating from a farm or small town into care can be challenging, practically as well as emotionally.

To help, new residents at The Bellevue receive a $5,000 moving package to ease the transition.

Families tell Oceania this support makes a meaningful difference, particularly when sorting belongings or coordinating a move from further afield.

In addition, each new resident receives a TV for their room, helping make their space

Aged Care that feels like home Have you noticed your loved one needs a little more support?

Are they struggling with mobility or medical needs? At The Bellevue in Papanui, you’ll find modern, purpose built Aged Care with warmth and community at the heart.

Surrounded by beautiful gardens and sunlit spaces, The Bellevue is a calm, welcoming place where residents feel truly at home and can enjoy the familiar comfort of home-style cooking.

To help families settle in smoothly, we’re also offering a $5,000 moving package and a TV for your loved one’s room, making the transition more comfortable from day one.* When it’s time for a little extra help call Emma at The Bellevue.

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feel comfortable and familiar right from the beginning.

A place families trust Whether coming from Darfield, Oxford, Hurunui, Ashburton or anywhere in between, families can rest assured that The Bellevue will support their loved in a welcoming and homely environment.

It offers the security of modern clinical care, the comfort of a warm and welcoming environment, and the everyday pleasures of good food and beautiful surroundings.

It’s a place where residents feel genuinely cared for and where families feel at ease knowing their loved one is in safe, capable hands.

To learn more or to arrange a personal tour, contact Emma Turnbull on 021 796 890 or visit oceaniahealthcare.co.nz

12 January 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING

Addressing training barriers for rural and Pacific workers The launch of an industry-first Government training initiative pilot in Otago is set to help dismantle geographical and cultural access barriers to formal learning and create new career pathways for Pacific and rural workers whose employment may be at risk.

] by Fleur revell-Devlin The move comes as regionally based primary industry manufacturers downsize, creating uncertainty for rural towns where a single large employer dominates the local economy.

Industry experts say that if successful, Project Fetu could become a scalable model for regional upskilling, establishing a methodology for delivering training in rural areas without local tertiary infrastructure, while tackling inequities and helping close critical technology skill gaps in manufacturing nationwide.

This could not only drive local, regional and national productivity and economic gains but also secure a sustainable workforce pipeline that the manufacturing sector urgently needs.

Project Fetu is a partnership between the Oamaru Pacific Island Trust (OPIT) and HangaAro-Rau Workforce Development Council for the manufacturing, engineering and logistics sectors.

Mata’aga Hana Fanene-Taiti, CEO of Oamaru Pacific Island Trust and Deputy Mayor of Waitaki, said many Pacific workers arrive in New Zealand without formal quali-

fications, despite years of work experience.

“Traditional training pathways are often inaccessible due to cost, distance or time.

Project Fetu is about creating hybrid, community-based ways of learning that meet people where they are, not just for Pacific people but for those in rural areas too.

“The initiative allows us to provide alternative hybrid ways of upskilling members in our community, especially from a rural perspective.

“We don’t have tertiary providers here, so this highlights the demand and the need from the regions, but also a different way of teaching and learning that could benefit others too.”

Fanene-Taiti said in towns like Oamaru, where local economies rely heavily on a handful of employers, industry change can have disproportionate impacts.

She said a number of meat processors are currently downsizing in the South Island, affecting Pacific workers in particular.

“It’s unstable and pretty volatile at the moment, which highlights the urgent need we have for diversification.

“We want to provide other pathway opportunities for our Pacific community and others

Career change: Waitaki Deputy Mayor Mata’aga Hana Fanene-Taiti says a training initiative pilot will help to create new career pathways for Pacific and rural workers whose employment may be at risk.

who are working in the primary sector to consider alternative industries.

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“For some, this micro-credential could open the door to new roles in construction or manufacturing. For others, it’s a chance to step up into supervisory or managerial positions, roles Pacific workers have historically struggled to access,” she said.

Fanene-Taiti said she hopes the pilot will inspire similar models across Aotearoa.

“We have to create innovative ways of bringing education to the regions, ways that are relevant, successful, and impactful. This programme is an excellent example of community, the education sector and industry coming together to solve a problem and create an innovative solution for our people in our region.

“This is about social return as much as financial return. It’s about building confidence, creating role models, and strengthening our communities so the next generation can thrive,” she said.

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CANTERBURY FARMING January 2026

13

Ways to reduce nitrate leaching Part 1

In the previous article, I outlined why nitrate leaching occurs and why it is so difficult to control. Now, I will look at some of the practical options that can help reduce losses. These are not silver bullets, and they are not all suitable for every farm, but each can play a role.

] by Dr Gordon Rajendram One option is to reduce cow numbers. From a purely scientific point of view, fewer cows mean less nitrogen entering the system, and therefore less nitrate leaching.

However, I need to be very clear that simply reducing stocking rates is usually not economically viable on its own.

Without major system changes, farm income often drops to a point where the business becomes unsustainable. It may reduce leaching, but it is not a realistic standalone strategy for most farmers.

Pasture typically contains 3% nitrogen (approximately 18% protein). If you apply nitrogen fertiliser, these levels can get up to 5.5%, and the excess N gets excreted by the animal.

This work of mine showed that the amounts of nitrate-N, calcium leaching went up with increasing rates of N applied at DRC No. 2 dairy during 1996.

The key takeaway here is: The less nitrogen applied, the less nitrate leached.

Another option is keeping cows off pasture for part of the day using feed pads. Urine patches are one of the biggest drivers of nitrate loss.

Show me the data: Amount of nutrients leached with increasing rates of nitrogen fertiliser application at DRC No. 2 dairy, Hamilton in 1996. The SED for comparison between N treatments is Ca (29), Mg (8), Na (10), K (6) and nitrate-N (29).

A 500-kilogram cow can excrete close to 10% of its body weight each day, which equates to around 50 kilograms of dung and urine.

If cows are kept off pasture for roughly a third of the day, nitrate leaching from urine patches can be reduced significantly. Whilst

this can result in large reductions in nitrate loss, it does come with costs such as infrastructure, additional management time and feed handling. It is an effective tool, but it must be carefully considered.

Diet also plays an important role. The key point here is that feeding more carbohy-

drates reduces the amount of nitrogen excreted in urine. Supplements such as grain or palm kernel are lower in nitrogen. If you substitute more carbohydrates for pasture, the total nitrogen entering a cow’s system is lowered.

This dilution effect means less excess nitrogen is excreted in urine and less nitrate is available to leach.

All of these options show that nitrate leaching can be influenced through management changes. In the Canterbury region, I am working with a farmer using a combination of these approaches, and the measured nitrate losses are very low.

In the next article, I will focus on soil and plant-based tools that can be used alongside these management strategies to further reduce nitrate leaching.

14 January 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING

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FORESTRY & LOGGING

January 2026

Positive note for end of the year

The 2025 year drew to an end on a positive note for our domestic wood fibre market and a negative note for log exports.

allan Laurie MnZIF ] by ] Laurie Forestry Ltd

A recent round of some sawmill owners was dominated by a cautious and positive response to the “how is the sawmilling business going” question. Fantastic to hear there has been a busy order book in recent weeks with good levels of enquiries for early 2026.

For those of failing or short memory or of recent entry to log sales from our forests, it is timely to remember how important the domestic log processing is to the NZ economy and for forest owners.

I call the sector log processing because domestic plants can include Sawmills, plywood plants and engineered product plants as well as MDF and woodchipping for fuel and on processing. For most forest owner domestic log processors represent resilient and stable pricing at reasonable levels.

A recent report from the Canterbury West Coast Wood Council reminds us there are over 42,000 New Zealanders earning their daily crust in the commercial forestry Sector.

Many of these are in domestic processing.

The news out of China and India is not so great but certainly not time to be thinking doom and gloom. China prices have come of US$4-5 per m3 at the point of sale in December as customers seek to better alignment to China domestic prices.

In this case, non-alignment means there are no trader margins with demand across China generally week. The primary reason is diminished sales of manufacture and semi manufactured products domestically and to exports to the US. This means subdued trading and weak prices.

What is increasingly evident in China, the largest portion of New Zealand logs are being uses in mouldings and componentry, a trend that started in earnest two-three years ago and continuing to gain momentum.

This is great news in terms of awareness of the attributes of Radiata pine in finishing end uses.

India is displaying signs of weakness but for some different reasons. Demand is weak but daily usage is currently running at or about the rate of supply.

Prices are holding steady, but there are some dark clouds on the horizon in the form of more vessels from NZ in January-February 2026.

This is due to exporters looking for alternatives to China. You will not need an abacus to work out what is going to happen next.

As always, please remember the thoroughly important message, it remains, as always, fundamentally important, the only way forward for climate, country and the planet, is to get out there and plant more trees”.

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15

16 January 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING

DAIRY

When homegrown is best

] with Peter Burton In 1988, almost 40 years ago, a Buy NZ Made movement was introduced and remains in place today. and the rapid removal of all subsidies to the rural sector.

In the short term there was real upheaval with many farms being sold at hugely reduced prices with the impact on farming communities and families still felt today.

New Zealand needed to become competitive and as a nation we responded and have enjoyed decades of growth and relative prosperity.

Buying local makes sense when quality and price are comparable with those of imported Nairn Electrical, proudly supporting rural Canterbury since 1975. goods, which introduces the concept of value.

Value is what you receive for your money and that is not always immediately obNorth Canterbury vious. It is worth bearing in 03 313 6104 Leeston mind the old adage, if you 03 324 3752 www.nairnelectrical.co.nz pay too much you lose a little money, that is all, when you pay too little, you risk purElectrical problems or maintenance? chasing something not fit for purpose.

Use our unrivalled industrial electrical There is little land in eiservice for: ther island that is sufficiently low in magnesium for a • Dairy sheds and irrigation growth response from ap• Power reticulation plied magnesium.

• Effluent control Emeritus Professor of Soil • Dryers, conveyors and generators Science from Lincoln Univer• Switchboards and central supplies sity, Tom Walker, wrote in Dolomite a first-class source of magnesium, “what grass7 day breakdown service land farmers must appreciate is that Mg, like Co and Se may be necessary on many soils for the sake of health rather than to improve pasture growth.”

He went on to say that “It makes good sense to me to correct animal deficiencies through the soil and the plant.”

The triangular logo of a stylised kiwi with ‘Buy NZ Made & Keep Your country Working’ underneath became widespread, and the message had immediate appeal.

At that time the country was unable to pay its bills without regular devaluations which provided short term relief but increased interest rates and the price of all imported goods ultimately making meat, milk, and wool more difficult to sell.

That ushered in the era of Rogernomics

Golden Bay Dolomite is the only magnesium product that is genuinely effective for a minimum of twelve months. Applied at any time at a rate of 250kg/ha magnesium deficiencies in fully fed healthy animals occur only vey occasionally and are easily treatable.

Containing 24% calcium summer pasture growth also benefits as clovers contain appreciably more calcium than grasses.

A tonne of dolomite has the same influence on soil pH as a tonne of high-quality ag lime reducing the amount of lime required to maintain optimum soil pH at little above 6.0.

Soon after an application the amount of other magnesium supplements can be steadily reduced with many customers finding that there is only a requirement for extra

during cold wet periods at calving.

Magnesium also aids with the uptake of phosphorus by plants resulting in higher soluble sugars. Any increase in sugars enhances palatability resulting in higher animal intake and more even grazing.

Currently the price of bulk dolomite delivered to Canterbury from NZ’s only mine at Golden Bay provides magnesium at a lower per kilogram price than imported magnesium oxide products.

While the price remains, there is not only a cost saving to the application of maintenance requirements the added benefits provide a compelling argument for an early season application. Call 0800 436 566 for more information.

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CANTERBURY FARMING

January 2026

17

Season of record cow productivity Dairy farmers are achieving more with fewer cows, shown through record milk production per cow and continued genetic progress.

] Article supplied by Dairy NZ

The latest New Zealand Dairy Statistics 2024/25, released by DairyNZ and Livestock Improvement Corporation (LIC), reveals total milksolids production rose 2.9% in 2024/25 to 1.94 billion kilograms, despite a 0.5% fall in cow numbers to 4.68 million.

The lift was driven by record-high productivity per cow, with the average cow producing 414 kilograms of milksolids, which is up 14kg from last season.

The average dairy co-operative payout (including dividends) was $10.75 per kilogram of milksolids, an increase from $8.90 in the previous season. When adjusted for inflation, the 2024/25 payout was $0.90 above the five-year inflation-adjusted average of $9.25 per kilogram of milksolids.

DairyNZ chief executive Campbell Parker said the results reflect farmers’ strong focus on performance and adaptability despite a range of challenges over the past few years.

“Farmers continue to focus on doing things smarter and driving productivity, including managing their herds more efficiently, im-

proving feed use, and leveraging science and technology to lift production per cow, while also responding to higher milk prices last season,” Campbell said.

“The trend towards fewer, larger herds is continuing, but the focus on high-performing, healthy animals remains strong, with fewer cows producing more milk.

“It’s a real credit to farmers’ skill, resilience, and ongoing investment in herd improvement and farm management. That combination of efficiency and innovation keeps New Zealand dairy farming at the forefront internationally.”

Meanwhile, herd improvement activity strengthened notably in 2024/25, with farmers continuing to invest in data and genetics to support long-term gains.

A total of 3.84 million cows were herd-tested, which is a 5% increase from last season, with 82% of the national herd now tested in 2024/25. The proportion of cows mated to artificial breeding (AB) also increased slightly to 81.5%.

LIC Chief Executive David Chin said that

Performance: new Zealand dairy farmers are working smarter according to the latest new Zealand Dairy Statistics report.

highlights farmers’ strong commitment to genetic progress and herd performance, driven by their focus to lift productivity across their businesses.

“Farmers now have access to the most accurate data and advanced genetic tools ever available, and they’re using these to make very smart, highly targeted breeding decisions,” Chin said.

“The record milk production per cow is no coincidence. It’s the result of decades of genetic improvement and a relentless focus on cow efficiency. Genomic evaluations, milk quality, and herd testing have all become integral as farmers identify and breed from their top-performing cows.”

RURAL RURAL AT MTERS M TERS MATTERS News and views that matter to rural people

Campbell said dairy farmers continue to play a large role in contributing to the New Zealand economy.

“Looking ahead to the current 2025/26 season, we will likely see the impacts from the extreme wet weather experienced in some regions during spring flow through,” Campbell said.

“However, there are some positives, with strong production at the start of the season, accompanied by a stronger than average retro payment and reduced interest rates, which will likely improve the cash position of many farmers.” access the full report at dairynz.co.nz/dairy-stats

18 January 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING

DAIRY

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DAIRY

January 2026

19

Effluent management that works as hard as you do Managing dairy effluent isn’t just about ticking boxes for compliance, it’s about looking after your land, your waterways, and keeping the farm running without headaches. supplied by ] Advertorial ] Pump Systems Ltd Every Kiwi dairy farmer knows the drill: fibrous solids, abrasive slurries, and heavy loads that can turn a good pump into an expensive repair job. The biggest cost? Your time. That’s where Pump System Ltd can help.

The pump that doesn’t quit In the late 1950s, while Jim Vaughan and his son Larry were working in their repair shop helping local dairy farmers fix clogging manure systems, they came up with a plan to solve the problem entirely by developing the world’s first chopper pump – the original Vaughan Chopper Pump.

Today, that invention holds multiple patents and is renowned worldwide for its reliability in heavy solids pumping.

From paddock to pit, the Vaughan Chopper Pump is built to handle whatever your herd throws at it. Bark, grass, ear tags, plastics, rope, bailing twine, rags, hooves, you name it.

This pump doesn’t just move effluent efficiently, it chops solids as they enter the pump suction, protecting your downstream system from blockages.

Make no mistake, this is no ordinary centrifugal pump; it is engineered for serious

work and will happily put in the big hours – a welcome trait on any Kiwi farm. It is also guaranteed not to clog, a hefty claim, but for over half a century, a well proven one.

Screen out trouble before it starts Effluent isn’t just liquid – it’s full of grass fibre and cow hair. The Lackeby Roto-Sieve Drum Screen is a high-performance, selfcleaning screen designed for stringy, fibrous wastewater and perfect dairy effluent.

The Roto-Sieve delivers the industry’s most efficient particle separation and is best suited to applications where a clean liquid phase discharge is required (think irrigation).

Add an optional integrated screw press, and it also opens up opportunities to repurpose captured solids, mostly cow hair and grass fibre, into bedding material for barn farming operations.

Long-term, you’ve got yourself a proven performer that will provide unrivalled screening and dewatering.

Once the Roto-Sieve has done its job, you’ll need somewhere to put those screened solids. From pre-cast concrete bunkers and pits to above ground tanks, custom platforms, bridges and controls, Pump Systems Ltd will work with you to design, supply and install a full turnkey system.

Before: A Typical effluent pit setup: messy, inefficient, difficult to maintain.

After: an engineered system featuring a Vaughan pump and Roto-Sieve screen: simple, clean, robust.

The end result is a system that works smarter, not harder, to manage your effluent and solids.

time, less stress. Börger’s experience in the agricultural sector spans more than 45 years, so they know what works for demanding applications, and what doesn’t.

That’s peace of mind your farm.

Smarter irrigation starts here If you’re injecting effluent into irrigation lines, accuracy matters. The Börger Rotary Lobe Pump gives you precise flow control no matter what your mainline pressure is – perfect for direct injection into pivots or Kline systems.

Unlike traditional progressive cavity pumps that hate running dry, Börger Rotary Lobe Pumps are less affected by variable flows and have the ability dry for short periods without damage.

Also keeping life simple is Börger’s MIP® (Maintenance in Place) design, which allows all wear parts to be replaced in minutes via the quick-release front cover—no need to dismantle pipework. Less down-

From clogging to confidence A well-designed effluent system with the right equipment will keep your operation humming.

At Pump Systems Ltd, we don’t just supply gear, we solve problems. No quick fixes, no band aids. From project planning and design to engineering, manufacturing and installation, we understand the realities of dairy operations, offering practical, reliable solutions that will stand the test of time.

Ready to upgrade your effluent system? Call the team at Pump Systems Ltd on 0800 609 060 for a no obligation chat.

Positive displacement solids handling pumps & effluent screening / separation equipment from Germany.

Accurately control flow-rate to dose screened effluent into irrigation mainlines.

Separate solid from liquid & produce high quality dry bedding materials from raw dairy cow effluent for barn operations.

Jim Vaughan invented the first chopper pump in 1960 after working on local dairy pumps in his repair shop.

Vaughan’s pump will handle raw effluent with ease, even that containing problem solids like rope, twine, or eartags.

These American made extreme duty pumps are commonly used for heavy industrial, or municipal wastewater pumping.

On farm they are great for: • Raw effluent • Saucer pump-out • Saucer/pit mixing • Flows up to 2,000m3/hr

The RotoSieve rotating drum screen from Sweden is designed to effectively separate fine stringy fibres from a liquid stream.

The result is a solid free liquid effluent suitable for irrigation, current installations inject screened liquid effluent directly into irrigation mainlines.

Available in two sizes: • Up to 18m3/hr • Up to 36m3/hr

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20 January 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING

RURAL CONTRACTORS

Succession planning workshops a hit A new series of workshops launched earlier this year to support farm succession planning is proving hugely popular with Kiwi farmers and growers.

] Article supplied by Rabobank

The free one-day Planning for Succession workshops were launched by Rabobank in June following feedback to bank staff and Rabo Client Council members on the need for more information on the topic.

The launch of the workshops coincided with the release of Rabobank’s latest

industry whitepaper which examines the succession challenge facing New Zealand’s agricultural sector.

Given the strong interest in the workshops to date, the bank has now announced a new series of workshops will be rolled out throughout 2026.

The succession workshops are open to

Future planning: rabobank succession workshops are open to both rabobank clients and non-clients and aim to provide attendees with an understanding of business transition and succession.

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both Rabobank clients and non-clients and aim to provide attendees with an understanding of business transition and succession, giving them the confidence to start and progress their own farm succession plan.

Over the past five months,18 succession planning workshops, facilitated by Lawrence Field from Rural Field Consultants, have taken place across New Zealand, attended by 473 farmers and growers.

Field said feedback from workshop participants had been really positive with attendees appreciating the helping hand to get them started on their succession journey.

“Attendees at the workshops have come from a wide variety of sectors including dairy, beef, sheep, arable, kiwifruit and other horticultural operations,” Field said.

“Many participants said they had been thinking about succession planning for a while and that the workshops provided them with an ‘in’ to get the ball rolling.”

Field said much of the workshop is focused on what he described as the succession ‘discovery phase’ which he breaks down into three components: family, business and roles and responsibilities.

“The family component is just so crucial

as you can’t start making a plan until you understand what everybody wants, and this part should involve discussions around things like timelines for transition, where will current owners live and what involvement do the next generation want in the business,” he said.

“It’s also often overlooked that family members taking part in these discussions might not be from farming backgrounds, and it’s therefore essential that information is communicated in a way that everyone understands.”

Mr Field said workshop participants were strongly encouraged to attend alongside at least one other member of their farming business, and that those who had attended with other family members had benefited the most from the workshops.

“With the groups being relatively small, no more than 30 participants, we’re able to create an environment where attendees feel comfortable to have honest conversations and to share the challenges they are facing,” he said.

“Several participants spoke to me after events and said they’d been really reluctant to get in an external facilitator to help with the succession process, but after attending the workshop and hearing from others, they could now see how this could add significant value.”

Rabobank NZ General Manager for Country Banking Bruce Weir said he was encouraged at the positive response to the succession workshops.

“As expected, there’s been huge demand for these workshops and all 18 have been well attended,” he said.

“In many regions, the workshop have been oversubscribed and, as a result, we’re planning to run another 24 succession workshops this year, in areas where we’ve already held workshops, as well as in some new locations.”

Farmers and growers interested in attending a rabobank farm succession planning workshop in 2026 should register their interest via the rabobank website – nZ Succession Workshops.

WATER & IRRIGATION

CANTERBURY FARMING

January 2026

21

A new chapter for farming resource consents

The major overhaul of the Resource Management Act (RMA) introduces two replacement laws: the Planning Bill, focused on enabling development and land use, and the Natural Environment Bill, dealing with environmental protection and management.

Matt Bubb ] with Aqualinc ]

We’re now at the start of a process that will probably take four years before the new bills become fully operational and embedded in law.

What will this mean for farmers?

This is great news for farmers. One of the major benefits is that you’ll need fewer consents.

The idea is that more activities, such as farming land use, will largely become permitted activities. This will significantly reduce delays, red tape and costs. Because no consent will likely be required for farming, it is likely that more emphasis will be put on Freshwater Farm Plans and the auditing process.

As such, there is potential for compliance costs to increase, although this should not be significant, compared to the costs that have been incurred with securing consents.

With more emphasis on Freshwater Farm Plans, there may be the opportunity for farmers to have a greater part to play in the formulation of these plans and how resources are managed at a localised level.

Because there will be more national

standards – meaning central government will put tighter controls on what local authorities can do – it is vital that communities have a say in how limits are set and how resources are managed.

We need to ensure that this process does not result in “one size fits all” limits and controls being put in place at a national level.

To assist with this, it will be important that we have a clear understanding of catchments. This means gathering pertinent information, records and data so this can feed into this process.

Another benefit should be that the consents that are still required for activities related to farming should be easier to secure, costs should be lower and the time taken to obtain a consent should reduce.

This is because the limit-setting process should have been done during the creation of Regional Plans, and if applying for an activity within those limits the process should be straight forward.

In addition to these two replacement laws, an additional law has been passed, called the Resource Management (Duration of Consents) Amendment Act. This automatically extends existing consent expiry dates to two years after the end of the transition period for the new planning

Welcome news: The overhaul of the resource Management act is good news for farmers with more emphasis on Freshwater Farm Plans.

system. Based on current expectations, this means most expiring consents will be extended to around 2031. However, the same length of extension is not provided if it means that the duration of a water consent extends beyond 35 years.

Applications to renew consents can still be made during the transition period, which will be important for some farmers. For example, Aqualinc are already dealing with replacement consent applications where the applicant wants to carry on with the application process because there is potential to sell the farm in the next few years.

In situations like this, where there is a

need for certainty of consented activities, some will decide to push on with consent replacements despite the opportunity to extend the existing consent.

These RMA reforms represent a transformative recalibration: seeking the right balance between enabling on farm development and upholding environmental stewardship.

For farmers, the promise is a system that’s simpler, faster, and fairer – with resource consents for many routine activities becoming a thing of the past.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding these changes, contact your preferred and trusted advisor.

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22 January 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING

WATER & IRRIGATION

Us, them, and the future

I’ve spent a lot of time with some staunch conspiracy theorists of late. Those who fraternise often with these types might be forgiven for developing an ‘us and them’ perspective of the world.

] by Solis Norton While a clear line between the respective memberships of the ‘us’ team and the ‘them’ team can be a hard to make, these theorists remain convinced that the teams are opposed and with irreconcilable differences.

The theorists’ view rests on implicit assumptions: one, that there is some plan, clandestine or otherwise, organised and carried out, a second, that the ‘them’ team is typified as the establishment and the ‘us’ team the counter-minded and illuminated individuals.

A reality check in recent weeks has triggered vigorous, animated and voluminous conversations with these theorists. Neither they nor I have conceded. But after the shouting subsides, an enduring point is the value of New Zealand’s Rural Leadership programmes.

New Zealand’s Kellogg and Nuffield Rural Leadership programmes are truly marvellous opportunities for passionate individuals in the rural sector to explore an issue dear to them and quite possibly dear also to these theorists.

The scholars bring their learnings to the sector, the spinoff benefits help the rest of the sector find its way forward.

Part of the leadership journey is getting out of the comfort zone, engaging in new spaces and with new groups and individuals.

It’s daunting but rewarding and a gift that just keeps on giving.

These programmes create a bridge for the scholar between the ‘us’ team and the ‘them’ team. This bridge is important. From it come revelations to set the hair of any selfrespecting conspiracy theorist on end. The revelation in question is a good one.

The theorist’s view is that there are a lot of clever people out there who actually know what is going to happen but will not say. The reality check is that this is simply not true and comes from conversations with many big

thinkers in strong organisational positions.

No consensus exists about the future, not even what will happen next month, let alone in five years, much less 25 years.

While there is some delight in tormenting the conspiracy theorists with this view, it also raises the importance of the ‘us’ team and the ‘them’ team working together to navigate whatever comes around the corner. My gratitude to the Rural Leaders Programme continues to grow.

CANTERBURY FARMING January 2026

WATER & IRRIGATION

23

A different sort of N issue In the IrrigationNZ office, we work across irrigation, freshwater, planning and policy. Along the way, we’ve noticed a strange and highly localised phenomenon.

Stephen McNally ] by IrrigationNZ Principal ] Technical Advisor ]

It’s not showing up in soil tests, water quality reports or climate models. It’s happening quietly, desk by desk, keyboard by keyboard.

The ‘n’ key on our keyboards is wearing out.

At first glance this sounds like a joke, and it is, sort of. But there’s also some truth to it. Our working vocabulary is saturated with words like national, planning, environment, regulation, consent, transition, and implementation.

You don’t get far into a submission, briefing note or farm plan analysis without hammering the letter ‘n’ again and again.

For years, much of the conversation around land and water has been framed in nouns. Big ones. Abstract ones. The kind that describe systems rather than actions.

The Resource Management Act encouraged this way of thinking, building an intricate architecture of plans, policies, statements and tests.

A lot of effort went into navigating the system, rather than simply getting on with using land and water well.

That’s the context many farmers have been operating in for a long time – not just complying with rules, but working through layers of language that can feel a long way removed from paddocks, pumps and pivots.

This brings us to the current round of RM reform and the two Bills now on the table.

Much has been said about what they might mean, and opinions vary widely.

But stepping back for a moment, there’s an interesting question worth asking: if the reforms genuinely move us toward a more permissive, property-rights-based starting point, does the language change too?

In theory, it should. A system that starts from enabling legitimate land use rather than restricting it tends to rely more on verbs and fewer abstract concepts.

Words like use, operate, build, maintain, invest in and rely on start to appear. These are practical words. Farmer words. They describe activity, not frameworks.

There are hints of this shift in the reform direction: the idea that only activities with more than minor effects need consent; the push for nationally consistent standards rather than bespoke regional reinvention; and the intent to focus regulation where it actually matters, rather than everywhere just in case. All of this points toward a system that spends less time talking about itself.

Before anyone rushes out to buy a replacement keyboard with reinforced keys, though, it’s worth being realistic too.

First, even a more enabling system still needs clear direction. The Bills don’t walk away from national policy, standards or lim-

‘

Our working vocabulary is saturated with words like national, planning, environment, regulation, consent, transition, and implementation.

Under pressure: This month’s column is brought to you by the letter ‘N’. its. In fact, they lean heavily on them to create consistency – which guarantees ongoing work for the n key.

Second, farming doesn’t happen in isolation. Water moves. Effects travel downstream. Neighbours exist. Externalities still need managing, even in a permissive system. Once thresholds and safeguards are defined, the nouns creep back in.

Third, and this is the big one, we’re heading into a potentially long transition period.

Any system change comes with a surge in explanatory language: transitional arrangements; legacy plans; replacement instruments and alignment between old and new.

This is peak abstraction. The real opportunity lies further down the track.

If the reforms are done well, there’s opportunity to shift the conversation from explain-

ing the system to applying it, less debate about process and more focus on outcomes.

That matters for farming. Our irrigated regions have decades of experience balancing development, environmental limits and community expectations. Many schemes and farms already operate under collective management approaches that go well beyond minimum compliance. They manage water and infrastructure as long-term business assets, not just regulatory obligations.

So yes, RM reform won’t magically lighten the language overnight, but it does offer a chance to reset the tone.

If, in a few years’ time, we’re writing less about national instruments and more about on-farm decisions that stack up both economically and environmentally, that will be a quiet but meaningful sign of progress.

™

BY LINDSAY

· IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

IRRIGATE WITH CONFIDENCE.

· REMOTE MANAGEMENT · PRECISION VRI

24 January 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING

LIVESTOCK

Velvet at a crossroads as prices disappoint

Now firmly into velvet season, at the time of writing we are starting to hear some prices trickle through. What we are hearing is mostly disappointing, however, as a couple of forces come together.

Cameron Frecklington ] with DINZ ]

“At the heart of the issue are the conflicting market signals we’ve seen over recent years,” said DINZ Board Chair Paddy Boyd said.

“Buyers have repeatedly said they want shorter, rounder, better-quality velvet that’s easier to process,” Boyd said.

“Yet at the same time, those same buyers continued paying good money for NT (larger, non-traditional) grades, so as farmers we naturally chased the returns. That meant quantity over quality because financially, it made sense. Until now.

“The market isn’t broken. Velvet has a strong future, but we’re at a crossroads because of volume in one category.”

The current season’s prices have been exacerbated by market manipulation by some in the wholesale velvet trade in China, where those who profit from instability are doing what they can to drop prices.

It is both the quality of the velvet we pre-

sent to market and the behaviour of players in the New Zealand velvet sector that DINZ is looking to improve through the proposed export licensing reforms.

Sticking with velvet, DINZ’s Trade and Strategy Manager Damon Paling has recently returned from a visit to Vietnam, where he met with New Zealand and Vietnamese trade officials, as well as company representatives and entrepreneurs in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

“Some deer farmers will know how DINZ describes its venison strategy as being a three-legged stool, the legs being Europe, North America and China. We see Vietnam as having strong potential for becoming a third leg for velvet, together with South Korea and China,” Paling said.

“It’s early days, but the key takeaway was the desire to form strong partnerships. Vietnamese companies want ingredients they can trust, stories they can tell, and points of difference they can take to market.

New Zealand velvet, backed by its traceability and quality assurance systems, as well

Velvet reform: DInZ is looking to improve velvet trading through proposed export licensing reforms. as the stringent NVSB programme, does just that.”

To venison, where demand globally remains strong, similar to other proteins. Sup-

ply challenges remain, but this is nothing new and just means product must be channeled to the markets offering the best returns.

The big news in the export proteins space is the unexpected dropping of tariffs by the US on New Zealand beef. This is a bit of a moving target, but we are pleased for deer farmers who also produce beef in a diversified system, and also for the wider beef sector.

Our North American Retail Accelerator programme for venison is going well, though tariff relief would be welcome, and DINZ continues to work with our trade officials on this.

Finally, we are making a last push in our offer of workshops and rapid assessments for farmers under our farm planning project, funded by MPI’s Integrated Farm Planning Accelerator Fund. The funding will finish in April 2026, so now is the last chance let us know your interest. you can register on the Events section of the Deer nZ website, or you can email the IFP team at ifp@deernz. org to register interest in a different workshop topic.

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FARM VEHICLES & MACHINERY

January 2026

25

Extensive upgrades for the Hilux Toyota Hilux buyers will have a dozen different Hilux variants to choose from when the new-generation ute arrives in New Zealand early this year.

] Article supplied by Toyota NZ Across the range, the new-generation Hilux has had extensive upgrades to technology, driveability and passenger comfort, and all packaged within a new exterior and interior design.

Toyota NZ Chief Executive, Tatsuya Ishikawa, said the Hilux needs virtually no introduction to the New Zealand market, such is the legacy and durability reputation of the ute.

“Under its newly designed skin, the 2025 Hilux is more ‘Hilux’ than ever before, built tough and ready to get the job done, day in, day out,” Ishikawa said.

The new Hilux range features four distinctive model grades, SR, SR5, SR5 Limited and Adventure, with all models powered

by Toyota’s trusted 1GD-FTV 2.8-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder engine, mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or automatic transmission, depending on the variant. Half of the 12 variants are available with a hybrid powertrain.

The extensive lineup ranges from an entry level rear wheel drive, double cab wellside ute to the range topping new Hilux Adventure, a four-wheel drive double cab wellside ute powered by the hybrid 2.8L turbo diesel engine.

In between are 10 ute variations, designed to meet a range of functional requirements and budgets, and in single, extra and double cab configurations. The former premium Hilux, the SR5 Cruiser has been replaced by the SR5 Limited and Adventure variants.

Ishikawa said the range of Hilux, from a two wheel drive or single cab SR to the top specified SR5 Limited and Adventure grades, is designed to meet a wide range of Hilux buyers.

“From those who need a tough no-frills ute to carry or tow equipment to jobs in the field, to those who prefer a more refined and wellappointed ute that might have multiple uses and passengers throughout the week and weekend.”

Externally, the SR grade features 17-inch steel wheels, silver painted lower front bumper, side mirrors and hood moulding, locking rear tailgate (excluding cab chassis), side steps and four exterior colour choices.

The new Hilux features a completely redesigned modern interior, offering maximum

Upgraded: For 2026 the newgeneration Hilux variants will offer extensive upgrades to technology, driveability and passenger comfort, within a new exterior and interior designs.

choose from a manual non-hybrid or automatic transmission hybrid powertrains.

The SR5 adds 18-inch gloss black and bright machined-finished alloy wheels with larger front disc brakes and ventilated rear disc brakes, storage space, refined styling, while keeping essential off-road controls within easy reach of the driver.

The new SR extra and double cab wellside ute has high-grade fabric upholstery, leatheraccented shift knob and steering wheel, rearseat air conditioning vent, smart entry and start, wireless smartphone charger, eightspeaker audio system, lifting the comfort and convenience amenity.

An SR 4x4 double-cab automatic grade is also available with a 48-volt hybrid system with an 8.4kW/65Nm electric motor generator for improved driving feel during take-off, and a reduction in fuel consumption.

Ishikawa said engineers also spent considerable time refining Hilux noise, vibration and harshness countermeasures further reducing in-cabin noise and improving overall user experience.

The next grade in the Hilux range is the 4WD double-cab-only SR5 and its premium SR5 Limited grade, which introduces the new comfort-oriented rear leaf suspension tune designed to provide a more compliant and supple ride. SR5 customers can now

high-grade auto-levelling LED headlights, LED taillights and rear fog lamp, privacy glass and auto retracting and heated exterior mirrors.

The top graded Hilux Adventure takes all the features of the SR5 Limited and upgrades with matte black alloy wheels, ‘mineral’ leather interior and a unique front bumper.

It’s available in six exterior colours, including two exclusive Adventure colours – Frosted White and Sulphur.

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FARM VEHICLES & MACHINERY

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