30,287 copies distributed monthly – to every rural mailbox in Canterbury and the West Coast for over 25 years
November 2026 Edition
INSIDE
THIS EDITION Alliance payout
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p17 Future farmers
p24 Cyclone season
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Bookings open: Exhibitor sites for the 75th anniversary event of the South Island Agricultural Field Days, to be held at Kirwee next April, are now open.
South Island Field Days countdown commences
With less than six months to go until the South Island Agricultural Field Days kicks off, organisers are once again anticipating strong demand for the event sites from exhibitors.
] by Kent Caddick Held from April 7 to 9 (2027), the biennial event returns to its established Kirwee site which has been expanded and improved progressively over the years. South Island Agricultural Field Days organising committee chair Henry Williams said the 2027 event is particularly special. “This year marks the 75th anniversary of the event which first started back in 1951 when local businesses decided South Island farmers needed a trade event that catered
for their farming operations,” Williams said. “Canterbury has always had a wide array of land uses, from dairying to arable, horticulture to dry stock, and back then they could see the value in having an event that catered across that spectrum. “Over time it’s proven to work with the strong foundation built since inception providing opportunities for both exhibitors and the public. The committee continue to refinine the event and the site to make it even more accessible for both exhibitors and public to be at and to get to.”
Today the site can accommodate 650 exhibitors, and all were taken for the 2025 event. Exhibitor registration has been streamlined to a simple online process that includes a site map to determine where and how big a site they require. Organisers have worked to boost the level of services to all sites to make it as easy as possible for exhibitors to set up, including installing more mains power delivery to reduce the need for generators, saving some fuel costs.
TO PAGE 2
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2 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
FARMING NEWS
Updated arms law in effect
The Arms Act 1983 has been repealed and replaced by the Arms Act 2026 which was passed into our legal system on 23 September 2026.
Bessie Paterson LLB ] with ] Ronald W Angland & Son
However, there are some further provisions which will be introduced over the next few years. It is intended that the new law will provide protection for most of us from harm caused by firearms but recognising that firearms are used widely in many sporting activities, hunting and pest control to name a few.
Some of the essential changes which have been introduced are: • It requires any person or organisation to act in the interests of personal, community and public safety.
• Gang members are disqualified from holding a firearms licence. • The firearms regulator is given the power to issue infringements for low-level noncompliance by a licenced firearm owner. • Plainer language is used in the new Act when compared with the earlier legislation and many definitions and penalties have been changed. Anyone who holds a firearms licence should familiarise themselves with the provisions of the new Act to ensure that they are up to date with the new law. Firearms Safety and Education New Zealand will be the new Arms Regulator and it will be responsible for firearms licensing and
other regulatory functions. It replaces the Firearms Safety Authority. Its focus will be to keep families and communities safe from harm through their regulatory efforts including but not limited to: Engaging and managing on the safe use and possession of firearms. The management of firearms licensing, overseeing the registration of fire-arms and regulatory interventions, if necessary. From 23 September it is responsible for decisions under the Arms Act relating to licensing, sale, supply, manufacture, transport and storage of firearms and everything related thereto, training and regulation relating to firearms safety and maintaining the Firearms Registry.
The New Zealand Police will continue their responsibility for the prosecution of offences, public safety, and law enforcement. Firearms Safety and Education New Zealand and the New Zealand Police also have a Working Arrangement and Information Sharing Agreement to guide the relationship between the agencies from 23 September 2026. Everyone who is the holder of a firearms licence should take time to familiarise themselves with the new legislation, including the regulations as the content changes much of New Zealand’s laws on weapons. This article has been prepared by Bessie Paterson, a partner at Ronald W Angland & Son, Lawyers, 2 Chapman Street, Leeston
Better roads and serious buyers at 75th Field Days FROM PAGE 1 “We also have a very extensive, established road network across the site now, guaranteeing all weather access, it’s easier than it has ever been to get in and out of.” Along with celebrating 75 years of farmer focused exhibits, this year promises to
continue the event’s focus on the latest and emerging technologies available to farmers and growers. “We will again be focusing on ensuring farmers get the opportunity to really compare all aspects of different brands and technologies alongside one another, it’s something
the field days are really valued for.” Williams said more exhibitors in recent years have embedded the field days as their ‘must attend’ event, committing marketing budgets and staff time to make the most of the event. As part of their exhibitors’ feedback reports the team at SIAFD notice site visitors are well-informed, focused, and serious about making significant purchases when they start their conversations with sales and technical experts on site. “They have done their homework when they turn up, are motivated and serious about the investment they are looking at,” Williams said. Canterbury is again experiencing a strong
period of primary sector growth, riding on the back of continuing strong dairy returns and healthy red meat prices. This has helped push the South Island’s economic growth above the national average, driven by the primary sector’s solid performance. “For the most part, there is confidence in the sector, people you talk to down here will tell you business is looking good and there is plenty of work ahead of them. “Farmers are our customers, and we get the exhibitors here who want to talk to them.” Information for this article was supplied by the South Island Agricultural Field Days. Would be exhibitors wanting to attend the field days can get full details on bookings and site pricing at www.siafd.co.nz
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CANTERBURY FARMING November 2026
FARMING NEWS
3
Gladfield Malt buys Malteurop site Canterbury’s Gladfield Malt has purchased the former Malteurop site in Ashburton, securing an important malting asset for New Zealand growers, brewers, staff, and the wider Canterbury community.
] by Kent Caddick The acquisition of the Glassworks Road site in Ashburton strengthens Gladfield Malt’s long-standing commitment to locally grown grain and New Zealand-made malt, while helping maintain a vital link between Canterbury arable growers and the brewing industry. Gladfield Malt owners Doug and Gabi Michael are proud to continue supporting both the New Zealand arable industry and the New Zealand brewing industry.
They said the purchase will help provide confidence for brewers who value high-quality malt made from locally grown barley. After 18 years in New Zealand, the French farmer-owned multinational behind Malteurop is exiting the local market, reflecting the challenges of operating in a small and competitive industry. Gladfield Malt is a local, family-owned business with five generations of farming roots in Canterbury and a long history of growing malting barley and producing high-
quality malt in the heart of New Zealand’s grain-growing region. Doug and Gabi Michael said the purchase was about backing New Zealand-grown grain, supporting the brewing industry, and protecting a site with real history. “This is about supporting local growers, giving confidence to brewers, and ensuring this important site remains part of New Zealand’s malting future. “We understand that longevity in business comes from hard work, passion, resilience,
and the support of the people around you. We are grateful to our customers, suppliers, growers, service providers, and wider community for their continued loyalty and support.” Gladfield Malt says all staff currently employed at the Ashburton site will retain their roles and become part of the Gladfield team. The company intends to restore the heritage buildings on the Ashburton site, creating a lasting asset for the region and giving back to the local community.
Restoration: Gladfield Malt owners Doug and Gabi Michael will restore the heritage buildings on the Malteurop site in Ashburton.
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4 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
FARMING NEWS
Land use flexibility key to securing farming’s future Farmers do best when they’re trusted to make the calls behind their own farm gate.
Todd McClay ] with Minister for Agriculture ]
Canterbury knows that better than most. Dairy, sheep and beef, arable and wine all come off the same plains and hill country. When Canterbury farmers do well, the whole country does well. The primary sector earns 82 per cent of our exports. Food and fibre exports hit a record $65.2 billion in the year to June. That money pays for the hospitals, schools and roads every community relies on. The world wants more of what we grow. On 20 October our free trade agreement with India came into force. It’s a big achievement for New Zealand and a huge opportunity for farmers and growers. Tariffs are cut or removed on 95 per cent of our exports to India. With our UAE, Gulf and EU deals, we now have more market access than farmers can supply. So how do we fill those orders? Land use flexibility. It’s how farms keep lifting productivity and secure their future. The goal isn’t for every farm to look the same. It’s for every farmer to have the freedom to adapt and make the best long-term call for their land. That might mean shifting part of the farm
into a higher-value use. It could mean combining systems in smarter ways. For some, it will be investing in irrigation and water storage, so new options stack up. The National Government has cleared the way. We scrapped the ute tax, kept agriculture out of the ETS and replaced the RMA with new planning laws. Rigid rules have gone. So has the idea that farming should be constrained, not championed. Consents are next. A Federated Farmers survey found the average bill for a new consent had hit nearly $45,000. That’s crazy. That’s money you could put back into your farm. A re-elected National Government will set 19 national standards for the work farmers and growers do every day. In many cases they’ll remove the need for a consent. Where one is still needed, it will be easier, faster and cheaper. Think about putting in a culvert so stock can cross a creek. Or clearing a fifty-year-old drain. These are ordinary farm jobs. Right now, the rules can change every time you cross a council boundary. The standards cover farm plans, drains, culverts and tracks, effluent and fertiliser, onfarm water storage and irrigation, vegetable growing, seasonal worker accommodation,
and solar and battery storage. Less money on process. More on production. Water matters more here than almost anywhere. The National Government has given water storage 35-year permits, cut compliance costs for smaller dams and passed the Fast-track Approvals Act. Klondyke Storage on the Rangitata has been fast-tracked. National will back more storage with $300 million in concessional loans. High country farmers need flexibility too. We’ll pass the Crown Land Legislation Amendment Bill so leaseholders can add farm shops, hospitality, arable, horticulture and renewable energy alongside their stock. And the National Government has put $110 million into wilding pines, a real problem in our high country. It’s all part of the 10 commitments in our agriculture manifesto, Building the Future: Growing More to Feed the World. They include no new taxes, no price on agricultural emissions, more water storage, secure fertiliser supply, strong biosecurity, more rural vets, and more markets with better returns at the farm gate. Backing farming isn’t picking the economy over the environment. The lasting gains I see come from farmers doing well enough to invest in better systems. Land use flexibil-
‘
Backing farming isn’t picking the economy over the environment. The lasting gains come from farmers doing well enough to invest in better systems.
ity lets us grow more and look after the land. You’re the best farmers and growers in the world. We have a plan. It’s working. We’ll keep clearing the barriers and backing you on water, so you can grow more and sell more. That’s how New Zealand has always become more prosperous. National gets that. National backs you, and we’ll keep backing you in the years to come.
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FARMING NEWS
CANTERBURY FARMING November 2026
5
Alliance to return up to $20 million to eligible farmer-shareholders Alliance Group has confirmed that eligible farmer-shareholders who supply and continue to back the business will receive up to $20 million later this year following the strategic investment partnership with Dawn Meats.
] by Kent Caddick Alliance Co-operative Chair Mark Wynne said the planned distribution would include two payments to eligible farmer-shareholders: a dividend for shareholding and a supply rebate for eligible livestock supply with 45 per cent to be paid as a dividend and 55 per cent as a supply-based rebate. A further distribution of up to $20 million is planned for next year, subject to livestock flows, with 75 per cent expected to be paid as a rebate and 25 per cent retained as earnings. “This planned distribution reflects the commitment to returning value to farmershareholders while continuing to strengthen the business,” Wynne said. Alliance Chief Executive Niall Browne said the company is making good progress. “Ten months on since the transaction with Dawn Meats, Alliance is changing for the better,” Browne said. “After a tough few years, the business is moving into a reset-and-growth phase, built on disciplined improvements across the areas that will drive future shareholder value. “We are maintaining our market share across lamb, mutton, beef and venison with potential for growth. “The business’ financial performance continues to improve, and our focus is on turning
Committed: Alliance Cooperative Chair Mark Wynne and Alliance Chief Executive Niall Browne say they are committed to returning value to farmershareholders while continuing to strengthen the business.
that progress into stronger, more consistent returns. That means doing the basics better every day. “We are investing in plant upgrades to improve safety, reliability, efficiency, environmental performance and product qual-
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ity, streamlining livestock procurement, staying closer to customers and making faster decisions closer to our plants and regions. “We are delivering against what we promised,” Browne said.
Farmer-shareholders are being encouraged to check their livestock supply numbers in the Alliance farmer portal. The dividend and rebate is expected to be distributed to farmers in late 2026.
6 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
FARMING NEWS
Strengthening rural communities
By providing certainty and practical solutions, we can strengthen rural communities, improve environmental outcomes and create opportunities for our next generation.
Jo Luxton ] with ] Labour spokesperson for Agriculture
When I talk to farmers, growers and rural businesses, I hear a common theme. People want certainty. They want practical rules, and the confidence to invest and plan for the future. For Labour, that means providing a stable framework that gives farmers confidence in where things are headed, while backing productive and sustainable land use. On resource management, we won’t be going through another full cycle of repeal and replace. There are a few things we would change – scaling back excessive ministerial powers, ensuring environmental bottom lines could not simply be overridden, and avoiding provisions that will shift more cost onto councils and ratepayers. On freshwater, our goal is swimmable rivers. The challenge is achieving that in a way that works for farming communities. We believe farmers and our local communities should have a say in how those outcomes are delivered. We want workable, practical rules that achieve that goal. We’re also committed to tackling one of the biggest concerns facing many farming communities: farm-to-forestry conversions. The Emissions Trading Scheme is not currently delivering the outcomes to reduce emissions.
Too often, it rewards land-use change to forestry because it’s cheaper than producing food. Labour believes that the ETS should be reviewed, including reconsidering the role of forestry within it, and developing new rules to prevent whole-farm conversions. When it comes to agricultural emissions, pricing methane won’t be the default approach. We want to work alongside farmers to reduce their emissions while maintaining productive and profitable farming businesses. We also support responsible gene technology reform, but we have one chance to get this right. New Zealanders need confidence that risks and opportunities have been properly assessed, with the risks accounted for.
Beyond the big challenges, Labour is focused on backing farmers with practical policies that help them succeed, build environmental resilience, and provide greater certainty for the future. That includes modernising sharemilking law to strengthen the pathway into farm ownership and support the next generation of farmers. Sharemilkers and contract milkers play a vital role in New Zealand’s dairy sector, but the industry has changed significantly since the current legislation was introduced. We want to ensure the framework remains fit for purpose, supports modern farming arrangements, and delivers fair outcomes for both farm owners and contract milkers.
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Labour believes the rules should be clear, fair, and work for everyone involved. We’re also focused on progressing water storage opportunities to strengthen freshwater security. Reliable access to water supports productive farms, thriving regional economies, animal welfare, and resilience to drought and extreme weather. We’ll take a long-term, catchment-wide approach to water management, ensuring water storage, flood protection, erosion control, rivers, and groundwater are considered together. Labour will support projects that deliver real community and regional benefits, strengthen climate resilience, and improve freshwater security. From farm owners and workers to families and those doing it tough, Labour believes everyone should have the opportunity to get ahead, wherever they live. Alongside our wider policies such as Apprenticeship Boost, restoring rural school bus routes, supporting small businesses, enabling on-farm renewable energy, delivering fairer grocery prices, and helping with the cost of living, these initiatives are about backing all New Zealanders to succeed. By providing certainty and practical solutions, we can strengthen rural communities, improve environmental outcomes, and create the conditions for a productive economy where more people can get ahead.
CANTERBURY FARMING November 2026
FARMING NEWS
7
Private well owners should be testing drinking water regularly When was the last time you tested your private drinking water supply for contaminants? supplied by ] Article ] Environment Canterbury Canterbury Regional Council (Environment Canterbury) is encouraging well owners to test their drinking water regularly because many contaminants can’t be seen, smelt or tasted. Environment Canterbury Water and Land Science Manager Dr Elaine Moriarty said regular testing was one of the simplest ways to protect household health. “Private wells can become contaminated with harmful bacteria and viruses, such as E. coli, as well as nitrate, heavy metals and other chemicals,” Moriarty said. “Some contaminants occur naturally, while others come from human activities. Because many can’t be seen, smelt or tasted, testing is the only way to know for sure if your well water is safe to drink.” If you own a private drinking water supply, it is your responsible to ensure the water is safe to drink. Depending on how many people use your drinking water supply, you may also need to register it with the Water Services Authority Taumata Arowai.
ECan recommends testing private well water: • Every three months for E. coli • Every year for nitrate • Every three years for heavy metals and organic chemicals
Additional testing is also recommended after heavy rain events or flooding. “Floodwater can contain sewage, animal waste, agricultural runoff and diseasecausing microorganisms that can enter wells or groundwater supplies,” Dr Moriarty said. “That fast-flowing water can wash contaminants into groundwater supplies, especially if the wellhead casing is not securely sealed, which is why it’s important to check your wellhead regularly,” she said. The wellhead should be elevated, at least half a metre above the ground, surrounded by a concrete apron, and securely sealed. Testing your private drinking water supply is straightforward, so it’s just a matter of getting into a regular habit of testing. Well owners can order a testing kit from an accredited laboratory, collect a sample following the instructions provided, and return it to the lab for analysis. The “Don’t guess – test!” campaign aims to show that testing is important and easy to do, by providing practical information about what to test for, when to test, and how to do it.
For more information, visit Environment Canterbury’s private drinking water supplies webpage: ecan.govt. nz/wellwater or Taumata Arowai for accredited laboratories, public guidance on drinking water safety, or to register your drinking water supply: taumataarowai. govt.nz
Test it: Testing is the only way to know for sure if your well water is safe to drink as many contaminants can’t be seen, smelt or tasted.
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8 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
RURAL PROFESSIONALS
Shares hold their ground while bonds take the strain
Andrew Wyllie ] with Forsyth Barr ]
The quarter opened with global share markets near record highs and hopes that the Middle East energy shock would fade. It did not. Conflict between the United States and Iran resumed in July, eased briefly in August, then escalated through September, leaving shipping through the Strait of Hormuz disrupted. The clearest impact was on oil prices. Brent crude oil began the quarter below US$70 a barrel and finished above US$105 after Washington rejected an Iranian proposal to reopen the Strait. Higher energy prices have added to the cost of freight, food, and airfares, increasing inflation and putting upward pressure on interest rates. Share markets absorbed the news and still finished higher; bond markets did not.
The US 10-year government bond yield climbed above 5.2% in late September, the highest since 2007. Yields rose across major markets: Japan’s 10-year yield passed 3% for the first time since 1996, while German and Australian yields reached their highest levels since 2011. Heavy government borrowing in several large economies added to upward pressure on yields. For investors, however, higher yields also increase the income and potential returns available from new bond investments.
Bond yields climb to multi-year highs
Company results in New Zealand, Australia, and the United States were generally encouraging, although their strength varied considerably across countries and industries. The strongest results came from the United States. Around 86% of S&P 500 companies reported earnings above analysts’ expectations for the second quarter, while
Bond returns were negative as long-term bond yields rose sharply during the quarter. Bond prices move in the opposite direction to yields, meaning existing bonds generally fall in value when yields rise.
Earnings remain resilient, but outlooks are cautious
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earnings grew year on year in 10 of the index’s 11 sectors. Headline earnings growth was boosted by unusually large investment gains reported by Alphabet and Amazon. Even excluding these companies, earnings grew by an exceptionally strong 32%. Technology companies and AI-related investment remained important drivers, but earnings growth was also broad across other parts of the market. In New Zealand, more companies exceeded expectations than fell short. The overall message, however, was that business conditions are stabilising but not yet improving materially. Companies with reliable sources of income, such as regulated or contracted revenue, generally performed best. Dividends remained reasonably steady, but companies expect the economic recovery to be gradual and remain concerned about inflation and borrowing costs. Australian results showed a similar divide. Resources and energy companies ben-
efited from stronger commodity prices, while domestically focused businesses faced cautious consumers and slower credit growth.
What this means for investors The quarter showed that resilient earnings and challenging financial conditions can coexist. Shares can continue to benefit from profit growth, but their relatively high prices compared with earnings leave them sensitive to changes in bond yields and earnings expectations. Higher yields have hurt existing bond prices, but they have also improved the income available from high-quality bonds. This article was prepared as at 30 September 2026 and provides market commentary for the three-month period ending on that date. This article 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. If you would like to review your investments or discuss the market outlook in more detail, please get in touch. Andrew Wyllie is a Senior Investment Adviser with Forsyth Barr Christchurch. He can be contacted regarding portfolio management, fixed interest, or share investments on 0800 367 227 or andrew.wyllie@ forsythbarr.co.nz.
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CANTERBURY FARMING November 2026
9
Farm debt: How much is too much? Debt has always been a part of farming. Whether it’s purchasing land, upgrading machinery, developing infrastructure or simply managing seasonal cashflow, borrowing money is often necessary to keep a farming business moving forward.
Laura Wood ] with ] LGW Accounting
But while debt can help build a successful farming operation, too much of it can quickly become a burden, particularly when farming income doesn’t always go to plan. So how do you know when your farm is carrying too much debt? The answer isn’t necessarily about how much you owe. It’s about whether your farming business can comfortably afford to service that debt, while still providing an income for your family and allowing for the ongoing costs of running the farm. Take two farms that each have $2 million in debt. On paper, their borrowing looks identical, but their financial positions could be completely different. One might be generating strong profits, comfortably meeting repayments and still having money available for improvements. The other might be struggling to cover interest costs, with very little left over for household drawings or unexpected expenses. This is why the total amount of debt doesn’t always tell the full story. What really matters is how that debt compares to the income and cashflow the farm generates.
Interest costs are a good place to start. For example, a farm with $1.5 million in borrowings at an average interest rate of 6% will pay approximately $90,000 in interest each year. If that rate increases to 8%, the annual interest bill jumps to $120,000. That’s an extra $30,000 that needs to come from somewhere, whether it’s reduced drawings, delayed maintenance or less money available for debt repayments. And remember, interest is only part of the equation. Principal repayments also need to be funded, even though they don’t appear as an expense in your profit and loss statement. A farm can show a healthy accounting profit but still find itself short of cash once loan repayments and drawings are taken into account. Another important consideration is how your farm would cope with a difficult season. Farming income is rarely predictable, with livestock prices, milk payouts, weather conditions and operating costs all influencing the final result. While everything might look comfortable during a good year, it’s worth considering what would happen if farm income dropped by 10% or 15%.
Would you still be able to meet your loan repayments without relying heavily on the overdraft? Would there be enough money for essential repairs and maintenance? Could you continue taking your usual household drawings? If a relatively small drop in income would put significant pressure on the business, it may be a sign that your current level of borrowing is leaving very little room for error. Of course, debt isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Borrowing to purchase productive land, improve infrastructure or invest in equipment can be a sensible business decision, provided the expected benefits justify the additional costs. The important thing is making sure those decisions are based on realistic figures rather than simply assuming that a good season will continue. Ultimately, managing farm debt isn’t about trying to become debt-free overnight. It’s about finding a balance between borrowing, profitability and financial security. Taking
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A successful farming business can comfortably pay its bills, support the people running it and weather a tough season.
the time to understand your interest costs, repayments and cashflow can help you make better decisions and avoid unnecessary financial pressure. After all, a successful farming business isn’t just one that owns valuable land and assets. It’s one that can comfortably pay its bills, support the people running it and weather the occasional tough season.
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10 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
HEALTH ON THE FARM
Getting the best out of probiotics Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts which may benefit health when taken in adequate amounts.
] with John Arts
ly more effective than no coating, it is difficult to get perfect coverage and this can adversely affect survival rates. A more modern approach is capsule-within-capsule technology. A 2020 Beneficial Microbes experiment using a dynamic stomach-and-small-intestine model reported higher probiotic survival after gastric transit and through the upper gastrointestinal tract compared with powder or an inner capsule alone. This suggests delivery systems may improve the number of live organisms reaching the gut, although human outcomes still depend on the strain, dose and individual need.
Common groups such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium can help support a balanced gut microbiome, aid digestion, restore bacteria after antibiotic use and may strengthen the gut barrier and immune function.
Probiotic food Good probiotic foods include live-culture yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, tempeh and some kombucha. These foods may add beneficial bacteria, support microbial diversity, aid digestion and reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea. For best results, choose products labelled “live and active cultures” and combine them with fibre-rich foods.
Benefits of probiotics A 2021 systematic review in British Medical Journal Open found that probiotics reduced antibiotic-associated diarrhoea in adults, especially in people at moderate or high baseline risk. Reviews have also found that selected strains may reduce overall symptom burden and abdominal pain in some adults with irritable bowel syndrome. However, effects are strain-specific, dose-dependent and vary from person to person.
Probiotic supplements A well-designed probiotic supplement should provide named, researched strains in effec-
Summary
tive doses and use delivery technology that helps live organisms survive stomach acid. When matched to a clear need, it may support microbial balance, reduce antibioticassociated diarrhoea, ease some digestive symptoms and help protect the gut barrier.
Optimum probiotic absorption Absorption and survival are crucial. Even a well-formulated probiotic is of limited value if too many live organisms are destroyed before reaching the intestine. Stomach acid can damage probiotic bacteria when ordinary capsules dissolve too early, reducing the number of viable organisms available to influence the gut.
A 2017 International Journal of Pharmaceutics study found that many commercial probiotic strains and non-enteric oral forms showed poor survival in simulated gastric juice unless strong acid-resistant protection was present. This helps explain why capsule design, storage conditions and expiry-date potency matter, not just the headline number of bacteria on the label.
Delivery technology The traditional approach to address this issue is to either put in large amounts of probiotics and hope that a sufficient number survive, or apply an enteric, or acid resistant coating to the capsule. While this is general-
Probiotics are not a magic shortcut to better health, but the right product can be useful when chosen carefully. The strongest evidence supports targeted use, such as reducing antibiotic-associated diarrhoea and easing some IBS symptoms. Benefits depend on the strain, dose, product quality, delivery system and the person taking it. For best results, probiotics should complement, not replace, a fibre-rich diet, fermented foods, sleep, exercise and sensible antibiotic use. John Arts (Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a qualified nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health. To read more articles by John and learn more about the Abundant Health products he has formulated, visit www.healthhouse.co.nz, call 0800 140 141, or email john@healthhouse.co.nz
Start with the latest information
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HEALTH ON THE FARM
CANTERBURY FARMING November 2026
11
Farmers urged to step up footwear safety Safer Farms is urging farmers to make sure everyone working on farm has safe, suitable footwear for the job.
] by Kent Caddick Slips, trips and falls are among the leading causes of injury on New Zealand farms, with unsuitable or worn-out footwear a major contributing factor. To get farmers thinking about the state of their footwear, Safer Farms is running a #BootsOfShame competition offering the chance to win a pair of boots worth $729. “We’re encouraging farmers with old farm boots sagging around the ankles or gumboots running low on tread to send us a photo,” Safer Farms Ambassador Lindy Nelson said. “The right footwear is a simple but important line of defence. We cannot prevent every injury, but we can make sure our footwear is up to the job. “Boots with good grip, toe protection around livestock or machinery, and the right support for the task are simple choices that can make a real difference.” Safer Farms reports Canterbury farmer David Birkett knows first-hand what can happen when footwear does not provide adequate ankle support. The experienced arable farmer was preparing to move irrigation equipment and wore standard gumboots because he was working with water. In a hurry, he stepped onto the tractor’s front wheel instead of using the steps and jumped from the cab. He landed on uneven ground, rolled his ankle and chipped a bone. Although gumboots were fit for the irrigation work, they did not provide the ankle support needed when landing on rough terrain. The injury kept him off work for three weeks, followed by three weeks of rehabilitation in which he could manage only limited tasks. Finding someone with the right skills to cover his work on farm also proved extremely difficult. More than half of farm slip and trip incidents happen while people are interacting with livestock, most often in paddocks, sheds and yards. Running, rushing or taking shortcuts, time pressure, and poor plant or equipment design each feature in 60 per cent of incidents.
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Boots with good grip, toe protection around livestock or machinery, and the right support for the task are simple choices that can make a real difference. Lindy Nelson Safer Farms Ambassador
Boot check: Reduce injury around the farm by ensuring your footwear is up to standard. Surface contamination and inappropriate or worn footwear each contribute to 50 per cent Nearly half of incidents involve workers juggling another visual task, such as watching stock while moving, and 48 per cent involve poor hazard assessment. Hazards can also be hard to spot or easy to underestimate, from manure on shed floors and divots in paddocks to familiar steps and vehicle access points. Almost half of injured workers continue working, risking a slower recovery while pain and fatigue reduce agility and decision-making. Not all farm footwear is created equal. The right pair depends on the task, terrain and weather. Before buying new footwear or heading out in what you already own, it’s a good idea to check: • Grip and tread: look for channels running in different directions, not just straight lines. Clean out mud regularly, as clogged tread reduces grip. • Ankle support: essential on hill country, uneven paddocks and races where it is easy to roll an ankle.
• Toe protection: important wherever livestock or machinery could knock, stand on or crush a foot. • Fit and comfort: well-fitting, supportive footwear can reduce fatigue during long days on your feet. • Weather: cold temperatures can harden soles and reduce grip, while wet or smooth surfaces may be more slippery than they appear. Information for this article was supplied by Safer Farms. To access the offer and view the eligible boots and brands, visit www.saferfarms. org.nz/slips-trips. To enter, photograph your battered “boots of shame” and either share it on social media using #BootsofShame or upload it through the online entry form at saferfarms.org.nz. Each week, entrants go into a draw to win one of four $200 Prezzy Cards, and all entries are in the running for a pair of Gronell Everest Tibet boots worth $729. The competition runs for five weeks from 12 October.
SEE EVERY COW, EVERY DAY. WHAT CHANGES? From identifying early signs of lameness to subtle shifts in body condition, Herd-i enables Canterbury dairy farmers daily visibility to identify changes sooner and make more proactive herd management decisions. Find out more at herd-i.com
12 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
CANTERBURY A&P SHOW
Golden Homes
Where Canterbury feels at home There is something special about Canterbury when town and country come together. It is the familiar faces, conversations over a cuppa and the pride we share in the place we call home. supplied by ] Advertorial ] Golden Homes Canterbury From farming families and rural communities to growing townships and city neighbourhoods, our lifestyles may look different, but a sense of belonging connects us. That spirit is at the heart of “Where Canterbury Feels at Home”, and Golden Homes Canterbury is proud to celebrate it as the naming rights sponsor of the Golden Homes Village Green at this year’s Canterbury A&P Show. For our team, the Show is an opportunity to connect with the people who make this region special. It is where urban and rural Canterbury meet, generations come together, and families enjoy a day out while celebrating everything our region has to offer. We look forward to welcoming you to the Golden Homes Village Green – Where Canterbury Feels at Home and catching up at our retail site on Deans Avenue to talk with our team. Whether you are ready to build, considering your next move or simply exploring your options, come along for a friendly conversation.
From North to South, we have you covered Looking to build farm accommodation, step into your first home or create your forever
home? Golden Homes Canterbury has you covered, from north to south. Our specialist team understands that every customer, property and project brings different needs. From North Canterbury, Christchurch and Banks Peninsula, Selwyn, Mid Canterbury and South Canterbury, we can help you find a building solution that suits your land, lifestyle and future. For farming families, that might mean practical, comfortable accommodation for staff, a new farmhouse or a separate home that supports the next generation living on the land. Thoughtful layouts, durable materials and warm, comfortable spaces all matter when a home needs to work as hard as the people living in it. For first-home buyers, it is about making the journey understandable and achievable. For those planning a forever home, it is about bringing together the spaces, details and everyday comforts that will make it feel unmistakably yours. Whatever your next chapter looks like, our local specialists can guide you through house and land opportunities or building on your own section. Our experienced FREE in-house design and draughting team can help customise a plan or develop a design around your needs. With Fixed Price contracts we bring assurance that your next move is in safe hands.
Golden Homes experienced free in-house design and draughting team can help customise a plan or develop a design around your needs.
Let’s talk about where you’d love to live The Golden Homes Canterbury team will be at the Canterbury A&P Show, ready to talk through your plans, explore your ideas and help bring your vision to life. Whether you’re considering your first home, more space for the family, a forever home or farm accommodation, come and have a chat with us at our site on Deans Avenue. From urban neighbourhoods to rural communities, and from North Canterbury to South Canterbury, our local team un-
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derstands that every location, lifestyle and build is different. We’d love to hear what matters to you and discuss how we can tailor a home to suit your needs and your dreams. While you’re in town, keep the inspiration going with a visit to our show homes, including our two newest Marbella and Madrid at Earlsbrook in Lincoln. Explore the layouts and finishes, gather ideas and picture the possibilities for your own home. Visit goldenhomes.co.nz to find a show home or showroom near you and plan your visit.
CANTERBURY FARMING November 2026
CANTERBURY A&P SHOW
13
It’s showtime in Canterbury The Ravensdown Canterbury A&P Show is New Zealand’s largest A&P Show and the largest three-day event in the South Island.
] by Kent Caddick Since 1863, the Ravensdown Canterbury A&P Show has brought the country to town for three days of agriculture, competitions, events and entertainment at Canterbury Agricultural Park in Christchurch. It’s where farmers and families, exhibitors and first-timers come together to celebrate the industry that shapes the region. This year’s event is being held from November 11 to 13 and while there’s plenty of entertainment to keep all occupied for many farmers the focus is on competition, an opportunity to benchmark their livestock against others with prestigious prizes on the line. These include:
Alpaca With a mix of championship and non-championship classes, the alpaca section is popular with exhibitors and visitors alike. Alpacas have been turning heads at the Show since 1872, when RH Rhodes exhibited a pair at our old Sydenham Showgrounds. Where: Alpaca Arena.
tional judges, and culminating in the Champion & Reserve Champion All Breeds. The Show’s top beef prize, the Meat and Wool Cup, has been awarded since 1945 and remains one of the most prestigious wins in the cattle ring.
Cattle – Dairy The Dairy Section features over 72 competitions covering all major dairy breeds, judged by a world-class panel, and culminating in the prestigious Supreme Champion All Breeds Female Award. Dairy showing runs deep in Canterbury families, one exhibiting family has shown Holstein Friesians here across five generations, a tradition that started with cattle loaded onto the train to make it to the Show.
Dairy Goats Held inside the PGG Livestock Pavilion, the Dairy Goat classes are a firm favourite. It’s a hands-on, close-up section where families and newcomers get to see the animals up close, alongside dedicated exhibitors putting their best stock forward.
Boer Goats
Dog Trials
Held inside the PGG Livestock Pavilion, the Boer Goat classes are a firm favourite with both breeders and Show visitors. It’s a hands-on, close-up section where families and newcomers get to see the animals up close, alongside dedicated exhibitors putting their best stock forward.
Set in the Mighty Mix Dog Trial arena, there are classes spread over all three days of the Show. Dog trialling has been part of the Show since the Addington days, with some competitors and stewards giving 50-plus years of service to the section.
Cattle – Beef
Horse & Pony
Robsons Cattle Lawn hosts over 200 classes covering all major beef breeds, judged by a world-class panel of national and interna-
The Ravensdown Canterbury A&P Show hosts one of the country’s largest equestrian programmes. This year, our equestrian events
Best of breed: For many farmers the focus is on competition at the Canterbury A&P Show, an opportunity to benchmark their livestock against others with prestigious prizes on the line will be spread out over four areas including the Bayleys Premier Show Ring, Isaac Arena, Ballantynes Clydesdale Arena and The Common. Some of the ring’s oldest contested trophies date back over 130 years, including the wire jump, first won in 1890.
Poultry The poultry section has always been a colourful section in the shows history with entrants exhibiting a wide variety of birds. Poultry has been part of the Show since 1862, when Dorking, Spanish and Cochin China fowls were judged alongside geese, turkeys and ducks
Sheep A mainstay since the first Show, sheep competitions celebrate top breeding, with entries judged on conformation, wool quality, and overall presentation. The Corriedale, one of the Show’s most
competitive breeds for decades, was developed right here in Canterbury, when James Little crossed Longwool rams over Merino ewes in the 1880s.
Woodchopping Compete in one of the Show’s standout events, held in the purpose-built Woodchopping Arena. With 43 events across three days – including chopping, chainsaw, standing saw, axe throwing, and tree events.
Wool & Fibre A longstanding part of the Show, fleece competitions celebrate fine wool quality through micron, weight, length, and strength, find your fleeces on display in our Wool Zone at the Show. Information for this article was supplied by the Canterbury A&P Association. For more on the 2026 Ravensdown Canterbury A&P Show go to: www.theshow.co.nz
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14 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
CANTERBURY A&P SHOW
Richard watches his pennies But Sarah makes them work, and save the pounds Richard’s not one for flash cars or big spending. As a practical farmer running a business and raising a family amidst rising costs, he knows that every dollar counts.
] Advertorial by OneEnergy.nz
His wife, Sarah, sees the bigger picture. She’s the planner – always looking for opportunities and smarter ways to save and spend their money where it actually pays off. Recently, Sarah spotted a hidden drain on their monthly power bill: their hot water cylinder. Like most standard cylinders, it was essentially a “dumb” appliance - constantly drawing mains electricity to heat water, whether they needed it right then or not. So, Sarah did her research and discovered a simple solar solution. By pairing four to six solar panels directly to their existing hot water cylinder via a smart controller, they could prioritise heating their cylinder with free solar power first. This eliminated almost all standard mains power consump-
tion, other than using automatic mainsboosts during extended bad weather. “Richard’s great at keeping us on track,” says Sarah with a smile. “But I’m the one who makes sure those pennies actually turn into pounds.” “It’s one of those things you don’t notice day-to-day, until you open the power bill,” Richard admits. For Richard, the long-term reliability was the deciding factor. The system comes backed by a 25-year panel warranty and features an award-winning German-designed controller built for durability. “It was a simple upgrade with no change to the cylinder” Richard says. “Good for the farm, good for the family budget, and it just made sense.”
Richard watches his pennies. Sarah makes them work. And the sun helps them save the pounds.
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FARMING NEWS
CANTERBURY FARMING November 2026
15
Breeding more efficient beef cattle A new research programme to support the development of breeding tools for more feed-efficient beef cattle has been launched at Te Mania Angus in North Canterbury.
] by Kent Caddick Led by Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) and funded by the Ag Emissions Centre, the four-year Cool Beef programme will generate the science and data needed to better understand the relationship between feed efficiency, methane emissions and production traits in beef cattle. The programme will support future genetic evaluation for these traits, providing beef breeders and commercial farmers with another option when making breeding decisions that suit their farming systems and business goals. The programme builds on earlier industry research, including data generated through the Informing New Zealand Beef (INZB) programme and its Beef Progeny Test. B+LNZ Chair Kate Acland said the programme is about building the knowledge needed to support future breeding decisions. “Farmers are focused on breeding productive animals that perform well in their farming systems,” Acland said. “Cool Beef will help build our understanding of the relationship between feed efficiency, methane emissions and production traits, giving breeders better information to support future decisions.” Ag Emissions Centre executive director Dr Naomi Parker said the programme demonstrates the value of bringing together Government investment, scientific expertise and industry leadership. “The Cool Beef programme is a key part of the Ag Emissions Centre’s broader portfolio of low methane livestock genetics research, including work on low methane sheep and low methane dairy,” Parker said. “By bringing together industry, research-
New research: At the launch of the Cool Beef research programme at Te Mania Angus in North Canterbury were (from left) Sinead Leahy (Principal Scientist, Ag EC), Dr Jason Archer (Head of Genetics, B+LNZ), Kate Acland (Chair, B+LNZ); Suzanne Rowe (Senior Scientist, Bioeconomy Science Institute).
ers and farmers, we’re building the scientific capability needed to develop practical breeding tools for New Zealand farmers and support New Zealand agriculture into the future. “Cool Beef is a great example of that collaborative approach, building the knowledge and breeding tools needed to support future breeding decisions.” Over the next four years, the programme will measure at least 2,000 beef cattle for both methane emissions and feed intake, with a further 1,000 methane measurements collected from cattle directly off pasture. The research includes Angus, Hereford and crossbred cattle from collaborating beef breeders across New Zealand and will contribute to the development of future Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) for these traits.
Methane measurements are currently being collected using Portable Accumulation Chambers (PACs) developed by the Bioeconomy Science Institute (BSI) with the possibility that other methane measuring technologies will be used over the coming years. The Bioeconomy Science Institute’s technology and expertise have been critical to establishing the measurement capability required for the programme. The programme will investigate how methane emissions and feed efficiency relate to important production traits, helping determine the potential for these traits to be incorporated into future breeding approaches. Acland said the programme will give farmers and breeders the opportunity to contribute to research that may support fu-
ture options for their businesses. “Breeding decisions are made with the long-term performance of a herd in mind. Cool Beef is about generating robust information so farmers who want to consider these traits in the future have the confidence that the science behind them is sound.” The Ag Emissions Centre is investing $3.9 million in the programme to May 2029. The programme forms part of a wider programme funded by the Agriculture Emissions Centre looking at low methane livestock genetics research across beef, sheep and dairy. Information for this article was provided by Beef + Lamb New Zealand. For more on the Cool Beef programme go to: www.beeflambnz.com or the Ag Emissions Centre website at www.ag-emissions.nz.
16 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
What makes Ashburton Rivers so surprising?
From $355,000, more than you might expect. When you’ve spent years making a place your own, it’s only natural to wonder what you might be giving up. Your independence. Your routines. The freedom to do things your way. For Val and her husband, who made the move to a Freedom Lifestyle village, it’s been a pleasant surprise. They’ve discovered that rightsizing doesn’t mean compromising. Quite the opposite, in fact.
Surprisingly liberating. Less to look after, more freedom to explore. With the peace of mind that comes from living in a safe, secure, Freedom village, Val and her husband can simply lock up and leave, and hit the open road in their caravan.
moved to Freedom for exactly “ We that, the freedom. We’ve got a brand-new caravan called Hugo, and now we can lock up, leave everything safe and secure, and head off on our next adventure. It’s a wonderful feeling at this stage of life.
Surprisingly comfortable. Brand-new, light-filled, architecturally designed homes offer generous living spaces and all the comforts of modern living, without the upkeep of a larger property.
”
the hardest part was the fear “ Iofthink change. But now, I don’t miss the big house one bit, especially all the cleaning. Our new home is cosy, comfortable and I feel really safe.
”
Surprisingly easy. From the planned village centre, which will feature a café, gym and library, to Ashburton’s shops and everyday conveniences just moments away, Freedom Ashburton Rivers makes it easy to enjoy life your way.
surprising thing is how little “ The our lifestyle has changed. I still go to the gym, see my friends and spend plenty of time with the grandchildren. The difference is that everything is just easy now.
A lifestyle village for over-50s. Come visit and be surprised. With homes from $355,000 and the opportunity to enjoy any potential capital gains when it’s time to sell,* there’s even more to discover at Freedom Ashburton Rivers Lifestyle Village. Showhomes open 7 days. *Subject to a capped exit fee structure and market conditions at the time of sale.
”
Because sometimes the biggest surprise isn’t what you leave behind, it’s everything you gain.
74 Trevors Road, Ashburton ashburtonrivers.co.nz
CANTERBURY FARMING November 2026
17
Rare chance to buy landmark Mid Canterbury foothills farm Bayleys Country rural salesperson Mike Preston says Farmers often wait many years for a chance to buy land in the renowned Mid Canterbury foothills. supplied by ] Article ] Bayleys Country However he said the wait is over with the auction on the 19th of November this year of Wakare, an impressive landmark rural holding, envied by many aspiring owners. “It’s rare to list a farm like this in the Mid Canterbury foothills because the land is tightly held, often within families for generations. It makes this an exciting opportunity for new owners to buy an outstanding farm in one of the most sought-after locations in the region,” Preston said. Set in the renowned Surrey Hills district, Wakare spans just over 1,465 hectares of well-balanced topography, ranging from around 450 to 850 metres above sea level, less than 50km from Ashburton and 120km from Christchurch. Preston said the property presents an outstanding, large scale farming opportunity, combining productive farmland, extensive infrastructure and captivating mountain and rural vistas. Current owners, Mike and Nicky Salvesen,
are nearing retirement and downsizing their farming operation after 18 years of nurturing the property. Under their guardianship, Wakare’s highly productive 400 hectares of flat to easy rolling country have been developed into an outstanding finishing operation with a reticulated water system, streams and gullies fenced off and thousands of native trees planted. “The Salvesens continued the stock water development started by the previous owners. It’s very good water out of Limestone Creek on the property that goes into holding tanks which gravity feed water into troughs in each paddock,” Preston said. The finishing area has an impressive lane network, and well-formed tracks providing efficient access from approximately 130 paddocks and 15 large hill blocks to stock handling facilities, the main yards, supplementary feed sheds and dwellings. The Salvesens operate an environmentally sustainable finishing system using winter crop and new grasses to finish their weaner deer, sale lambs and surplus beef cattle each year. It is also where young bulls from
Home with a view: The main homestead at Wakare was completed in 2009 on the site of the original home and is set amongst established trees and gardens with expansive lawns. It offers magnificent northerly views encompassing the Taylor Range, Mount Somers and Mount Hutt. the Salvesen’s successful Angus stud are grown out for sale as yearlings each October. Balancing the front flats is just over 1,000 hectares of medium to steep foot hills, ideal breeding country for Wakare’s 500 mixedage and rising two-year-old Red hinds, 380 Angus cows and 130 in-calf rising-two-yearold Angus heifers, plus their ewe flock of 1600 head and 450 ewe hogget replacements. The Salvesens also run a mob of 150 mixed-age velvet stags. Preston said all the deer, sheep and most of the Angus herd are available for purchase to the incoming buyers. The Salvesens are only retaining a small number of Wakare Angus cows for their new smaller property near Methven. The manager’s residence was comprehensively renovated in 2023, including the ad-
dition of a further bedroom, while a modern three-bedroom farm cottage was completed in 2017. A set of large Te Pari cattle yards and the main deer handling shed are sited at the front of the property, with excellent access through the network of lanes to both the flats and the hills behind. The four-stand woolshed and main covered sheep yards are also at the front of the property. Other improvements include a five-bay hay and implement shed, three three-bay implement and vehicle sheds plus a workshop, a granary and feed shed. Preston said demand for dairy support and grazing country in Mid-Canterbury has been strengthening over the past year, setting a new benchmark for irrigated dairy support land.
18 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
ARABLE FARMING
Maximise yield and returns in seed crop production AgNova Technologies NZ Ltd is the distributor for MESH®, which is a new generation polymer-based material designed to reduce pod shatter and seed loss. supplied by ] Advertorial AgNova ] MESH dramatically reduces the losses from pod shatter before and during harvest and also helps with reducing volunteer pressure in following crops. Developed by De Sangosse UK, MESH is well-established and a market leader there for many years already. “We are proud to bring this innovation to New Zealand cropping farmers”, says Mike Goodwin, South Island Area Sales Manager for AgNova NZ.
What is Mesh? it is a unique polymer blend, with a spreading system to give retention, spreading and coverage. Mesh ‘tacks’ and protects the pod seam, reducing its natural tendency to split and allowing the pod to expand, contract and mature normally. Mesh works by “stapling” or tacking the pod suture line (seam) preventing it from opening or cracking, thereby preventing seed losses. As MESH dries, it produces a honeycomb structure (mesh), which develops interconnecting bonds and forms a continuous structure.
Mesh has some key advantages over current products used in the New Zealand market, because of its unique make-up. It can be applied from Growth Stage 79, approximately 8 weeks prior to harvest. The best timing is when pods are light green, still pliable and may be bent into a V shape without splitting, this is generally GS 80-82 in oil seed rape. Trial work overseas and in New Zealand has shown that this early application gives the best return on investment as Mesh retains pod integrity from the earliest time where seed loss can occur, right up to harvest. The other option is to apply MESH with your crop desiccant product, approximately 2-3 weeks before harvest. MESH is compatible with most glyphosate and diquat type products which may be used for desiccation. Used at this timing, MESH will reduce infield losses due to physical crop movement and pod expansion and contraction. MESH does not slow down desiccation and has no adverse effect on maturity or quality of the seed produced. MESH effectively reduces pre-harvest losses caused by ‘normal’ conditions. Use rate – MESH is used at one litre per hectare in 100 to 150 litres of water. Using the lower water volume will allow for more
Once dried on the crop, MESH is the only application needed, as it has excellent rainfastness characteristics compared with other products.
hectares to be sprayed around these key harvest times. Once dried on the crop, this is the only application needed, as MESH has excellent rainfastness characteristics compared with other products. MESH is registered for use in oilseed rape, other brassica & vegetable seed crops, and peas & beans.
THE BOND THAT HOLDS YOUR HARVEST TOGETHER
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David Lingan
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Mesh tacks and protects the pod seam, reducing its natural tendency to split and allowing the pod to expand, contract and mature normally. Mesh can be applied anytime from approximately 8 weeks before harvest and protect right through. Mesh dramatically reduces the losses from pod shatter before and during harvest and effectively reduces preharvest losses caused by ‘normal’ conditions.
David Chamberlin
Country Manager davidc@agnova.co.nz 021 966 945
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info@agnova.co.nz orders@agnova.co.nz 0800 500 599
Rainfast / Reduces both crop loss and post-harvest seed contamination / Long lasting / More hectares sprayed per tank load / Cost effective.
Mesh® is a unique polymer blend which reduces pod shatter and seed loss before and during harvest in canola, other brassica seed crops, peas and beans.
Contact the AgNova Technologies NZ Ltd team for more information: AgNova Technologies
Key benefits:
CANTERBURY FARMING November 2026
ARABLE FARMING
19
Agricultural practice done better There are lots of things farmers and growers can’t control, the weather probably being top of mind right now, but there’s some things they can.
supplied by ] Advertorial UPL NZ Ltd ] Pieter Van Der Westhuizen, UPL NZ Ltd Technical Market Development Manager and adjuvant expert, is an advocate of the principles of good agricultural practice (or GAP). It’d be fair to say he does know a quite a bit around some of the products that are central to GAP. For decades, UPL NZ have provided the New Zealand agricultural sector with over twenty targeted adjuvants to enhance spray performance. “The way you handle and apply chemicals is central to good practice. It impacts the efficacy of the active, but also mitigates the threat to neighbouring crops, the environment, and to people.” He says one thing he can’t emphasise enough is the importance of properly cleaning tanks. Pieter says even trace amounts of crop protection products left behind in tanks, hoses, filters, screens, booms and nozzles can cause significant damage when spraying subsequent crops. “Herbicide residues such as metsulfuron, picloram, carfentrazone-ethyl, glyphosate, dicamba, 2,4-D, sulfonylureas and flumetsulam can persist in spray systems and contaminate future spray loads, resulting in crop damage, reduced yields and quality, rejected produce, and costly re-sprays. “Cleaning spray tanks with laundry powder or ammonia is not going to remove every trace of spray. “You may think the tank is clean, but products can still be there – even in small amounts it’s enough to do a lot of damage.”
Spray drift: A controllable risk to spray programme efficacy is spray drift.
He says All Clear 2X is the insurance policy farmers and growers can’t afford to be without. Another controllable risk to spray programme efficacy is spray drift. Pieter says many regional councils now have strict conditions regarding spray drift, along with required notifications before spraying in some instances. He also strongly recommends multi-purpose adjuvant Li-1000 or Unison® to help keep spray where it’s meant to be; minimising waste, and optimising productivity. “Li-1000 and Unison are multipurpose adjuvants – surfactant, penetrant, and drift retardant, all in one.” “It’s also important to choose products
that are fit for purpose, and that includes adjuvants (the products that make sprays stick, spread or get into plants). Probably the best known of UPL’s adjuvants is Du-Wett®. Pieter recommends using the super spreader for optimal crop coverage. “It saves time, reduces waste and, critically, there’s going to be a better outcome. Du-Wett will easily pay for itself. You get the most out of every drop of the spray. With DuWett you cover a greater area faster, with a much-reduced water volume and still get better protection for the crop. “Until relatively recently, the volume of water in spray programmes hasn’t been that big a concern. But now, with modern application
techniques, including low water volume applications, rising fuel, labour, and spray costs, and shifts in attitudes towards to the use of water itself, that is changing. “Du-Wett work by reducing the surface tension of spray droplets. One spray droplet containing Du-Wett can provide up to 20 times the spread of active compared to an insecticide applied without an adjuvant and at least 6-8 times compared to a conventional, nonionic adjuvant.” Talk to your local technical representative to learn more about good agricultural practices or contact Pieter Van Der Westhuizen, UPL NZ Ltd Technical Market Development Manager and adjuvant expert at 021 392 740.
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20 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
ARABLE FARMING
HortNZ scholarship programme applications open nationwide Applications are now open for Horticulture New Zealand’s 2027 scholarship programme.
] by Kent Caddick Each year, the organisation, which represents New Zealand’s more than 4,300 commercial growers, offers a range of scholarships to students studying in New Zealand towards undergraduate or postgraduate degrees. Kate Scott, Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) chief executive, said applications are invited from students with a particular interest in the commercial fruit and vegetable sector. “A key pillar of the Aotearoa Horticulture Action Plan (AHAP) is to nurture people,” Scott said. “The sector is focused on attracting, retaining and growing great people through a structured capability framework, building a responsible and attractive industry and supporting workforce diversity. “The scholarships provide an opportunity for students studying across a very wide range of disciplines. Our industry uses a vast range of skills, from research and laboratory work, to agronomy, harvesting, technology, marketing, logistics and much more. “With previous scholars now forging successful careers in the sector, we look forward to applications from current students who
are focused on going on to rewarding roles in an industry which is critical to the New Zealand economy.” Three postgraduate scholarships, each worth $10,000, are available this year, for students undertaking postgraduate study focused on innovation and tackling challenges critical to the horticulture industry’s future success. The Horticulture New Zealand Postgraduate Scholarship is for study specifically related to the vegetable industry. Two New Zealand Fruitgrowers Charitable Trust Postgraduate Scholarships are offered, for study specifically related to the fruit industry. The Horticulture New Zealand Undergraduate Scholarships will enable successful applicants to attend the 2027 New Zealand Horticulture Conference. Each scholarship is valued at $1,500, to cover the costs of flights, accommodation and conference registration. Applicants must be a tertiary student studying in New Zealand towards an undergraduate degree or diploma in any discipline and be able to demonstrate their intent to support the New Zealand fruit and vegetable industry post study. Nine of these scholarships will be award-
ed to applicants from New Zealand’s major growing regions, with one from each region. These are Northland; Auckland/Waikato; Bay of Plenty; Tairawhiti Gisborne; Hawke’s Bay; Lower North Island; Tasman, including Nelson, Marlborough and the West Coast, Canterbury; and Otago and Southland. Four Horticulture New Zealand scholarships will also be awarded nationally to applicants from outside these regions.
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Scholarships: Applications for Horticulture New Zealand’s 2027 scholarship programme are invited from students with a particular interest in the commercial fruit and vegetable sector. The top five applicants will each receive a Horticentre Trust Undergraduate Scholarship, valued at $4,500, enabling them to attend the 2027 New Zealand Horticulture conference, plus funding towards their studies. Applications for all the scholarships close on Tuesday 1 December. For more information visit: www.hortnz. co.nz.
CANTERBURY FARMING November 2026
21
Choosing the right effluent storage Having a well-designed and constructed effluent storage facility will save you time and money.
] Article supplied by DairyNZ The key is good planning and working with the right people. The benefits of a well-designed storage system include increased flexibility around irrigating, effective utilisation of nutrients and water, reduced risk of effluent non-compliance, and environmental protection. Lined ponds and above ground tanks are the two options available when choosing an effluent storage system for your farm.
Above ground tanks • Pros: Can usually be installed all year round; Little costs associated with earthworks; Not significantly affected by water table. • Cons: Can be more expensive than lined ponds; May require a building consent from district council; Some size restriction on what is available commercially.
Lined ponds • Pros: Less cost than above ground options; Can be less intrusive on the farm; More accommodating of shape and design; No size restriction. • Cons: Wider range of costs depending on
lining options and earthworks needed; Installation can be weather affected especially for clay lined ponds in some wetter parts of the country. A well designed storage pond is sealed to avoid leakage to groundwater, allows for ongoing operation and maintenance, and is appropriately sized for the volume of effluent produced now and in the foreseeable future, and is compliant with regional and district council and Building Act requirements. Liners can be formed from compacted clay, concrete or specifically manufactured materials such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), or rubber (EPDM).
Selecting the right liner: Compacted clay • Pros: May have suitable clay on site for pond construction. • Cons: Requires soil testing by a professional Requires technical expertise to compact clay correctly to achieve sealing requirement; Cracking can appear when ponds are empty, risk of leaking; Warranties may be more difficult to obtain; Potentially high cost if importing clay from off-site; May require periodic re-lining of the pond after cleaning; Not favoured by all councils, you need to check first.
Choices: Above ground tanks or lined ponds are the two main alternatives for farm based effluent storage.
Concrete
Synthetic
• Pros: Less earthwork preparation required than with clay liners; Flexible to withstand ground movement; Withstands mechanical damage.
• Pros: Good range of liners available; Good warranties available; Installation allows for gas and ground water dissipation.
• Cons: Warranties may be difficult to obtain, engineering expertise is essential; Moderate to high cost.
• Cons: Some variation in quality of synthetics on the market; Moderate to high cost.
22 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
Applying effluent to land as a fertiliser When spread over land and applied in timely fashion, dairy effluent can save farmers thousands of dollars a year in fertiliser. supplied by ] Article ] the Waikato Regional Council Farm dairy effluent is a natural, dilute liquid fertiliser. It contains nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), sulphur (S) and trace elements that you’d normally pay for to have applied to pasture. Think of dairy effluent as a resource, not waste. The average dairy herd (244 cows) produces the same amount of effluent as a town with about 3400 people.
Protect waterways on your farm by: • not irrigating within 50 metres of a water supply • leaving a strip of non-irrigated land next to all watercourses – at least 20 metres wide • ensuring that spray drift isn’t getting into nearby streams or rivers Soil acts as a living filter and treats the applied effluent by changing it: • physically – filtering out effluent particles, breaking them down and incorporating them into the soil structure
Alternative: Dairy effluent is a resource, not waste. Photo courtesy of Nevada Group
• chemically – absorbing nutrients and making them available to plants • biologically – harmful micro-organisms (such as bacteria) present in the effluent are retained by the soil, or are killed when the effluent dries or when they become exposed to sunlight. However, don’t apply too much as soil can only filter so much effluent at a time. It’s important to match the irrigation depth to the capability of the soil. Land with impeded or artificial drainage, high or rising water tables or slopes of greater than 7 degrees have a higher risk from over-application, and therefore application depths should be adjusted accordingly to reflect soil and weather conditions.
Too much effluent can: • kill pasture – especially where effluent has ‘ponded’ on the soil surface • pollute nearby streams and rivers – where it runs off paddocks into waterways.
• pollute ground water – by seeping too deep into the soil • be an ineffective use of nutrients - by seeping past the root zone before the plant can utilise it
Working out how much effluent to irrigate Although effluent contains many nutrients which can impact on your farm management, it is the environmental effects of nitrogen that determine how much you can irrigate onto land. Too much nitrogen can reduce pasture performance and reduce water quality in neighbouring waterways. If you know exactly how much nitrogen is in effluent, you can work out the most effective application rates for your land. Each effluent application must not be more than 25 millimetres deep. How deep you irrigate effluent over an area will depend on how much nitrogen you want to apply. Remember to cover water troughs when irrigating effluent.
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CANTERBURY FARMING November 2026
23
DairyBase stretches every farm dollar As farmers look for smarter ways to make every dollar go further, Manawatu dairy farmer Kevin Argyle is using benchmarking to lift homegrown feed production, improve efficiency and strengthen farm performance.
supplied by ] Article ] DairyNZ
DairyNZ’s DairyBase tool provided insights which allowed Argyle to make measurable changes on farm. He owns Abba Farm, a 180-hectare dairy farm 10 kilometres southwest of Palmerston North. The farm has three full-time employees and several relief staff milking 600 cows. Comparing performance data through DairyBase, Argyle and his team switched from turnips to fodder beet as a summer crop. “The cost per kilogram of dry matter is much better and yields are significantly higher. This helped reduce supplementary feed costs. We are also trying to increase homegrown feed production,” he said. With a background in governance and corporate roles, Argyle saw immediate value in signing up to DairyBase – a free benchmarking tool that helps dairy farmers compare farm performance with similar operations. “I’m an accountant, so for me, DairyBase provides some really useful metrics and key performance indicators – both physical data and financial data. “It lets me identify where we’re performing strongly compared with other farms, such as per-cow production and kilograms of dry matter grown per hectare, and where we need to improve.” He said another advantage of having this level of data available is that it helps engage
staff and involve them in improvements. “For instance, you can explain why and how you want to reduce electricity costs. You can also expect staff to carry out preventative maintenance of machinery like greasing and checking oil when they can look at data and see how it reduces breakdowns and repair costs.” He said he would like to see more farmers explore DairyBase. “It’s important to have enough comparable farms otherwise benchmarking isn’t meaningful.” DairyNZ’s DairyBase Manager Jodie Goudswaard said to ensure the information is statistically reliable and that individual data
remains confidential, a minimum of 20 farms must be entered for a benchmark group before statistics become available. “The greater the number in the sample, the more accurate the data will be,” Goudswaard said. In terms of user experience, Argyle said DairyBase is quite logical. “You can see summary measures like farm working expenses per cow or per hectare and compare those against other farmers using similar systems. If you want to drill deeper, it provides detailed operating data at a granular level, such as spend on fertiliser, animal health and breeding. It also provides
insights around assets, liabilities, and capital structure,” he said. “DairyBase helps manage production costs and maintain margins. It allows you to identify where spending on fertiliser, grazing, electricity or feed differs from comparable farms and understand what’s driving those differences.” He said it’s important for users who are starting out not to be daunted by the level of information required. “Once you have a routine, it becomes simple and intuitive. It’s also important to capture data in real time rather than trying to reconstruct it later.”
24 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
Herd-i backs future farmers with awards sponsorship Herd-i has been named as a new all-region sponsor of the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards (NZDIA).
] by Kent Caddick As an all-region sponsor, the Kiwi agri-tech company will present the Herd-i Health & Safety Merit Award in the Dairy Manager of the Year (DMOTY) category, at each of the 11 regional award evenings. This recognises the Dairy Manager of the Year entrant in each region who demonstrates excellence in health and safety management, systems and practices within their farming business or role. NZDIA Trust Chair Paulette Johns said the sponsor partnership with Herd-i is a valuable addition to the awards programme. “We are delighted to bring Herd-i into our family of sponsors at an all-region level,” Johns said. “Herd-i technology puts eyes on every cow’s body condition score or lameness score to allow farmers to act early and make more informed decisions. That focus on cow health sits right at the heart of what good dairy management is about. “This award shines a light on the managers who are doing the fundamentals exceptionally well: creating safe, productive and sustainable workplaces and recognises competitors who show strong leadership and commitment to health and safety onfarm. Those are exactly the skills the industry needs in its next generation of leaders. “Having an all-region sponsor willing to present the same award across all 11 regions gives real consistency and profile to our all-region sponsors, and visibly bolsters
Sponsored: Kiwi agri-tech company Herd-I has joined the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards as an all-region sponsor in the Dairy Manager of the Year category.
the importance of health and safety at a manager level within our farms.” Herd-i Chair Peter Mitchell said the sponsorship is an opportunity to support dairy farmers across the country and celebrate the people contributing to the future of the industry. “We’re proud to join other industry leaders in supporting an awards programme that brings people together from across the regions to share ideas, learn from one another and recognise what is being achieved on farm,” Mitchell said.
“New Zealand farmers have played a big part in Herd-i’s journey by using our technology in real farming conditions and sharing their honest feedback with us. “Supporting the Awards is another way for us to give something back and stand alongside the people who have helped shape our business. “Our team is looking forward to getting out into the regions, meeting entrants and celebrating their achievements. “Herd-i’s focus is on improving dairy herd health and productivity, and we believe look-
ing after people and animals goes hand in hand with running a successful dairy business.” The New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards are supported by national sponsors ASB, CowManager, Ecolab, Federated Farmers, Honda, LIC, Power Farming along with industry partners Fonterra, DairyNZ and The Country. Information for this article was supplied by NZDIA. Entries are now open for the 2027 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards. To enter visit dairyindustryawards. co.nz.
CANTERBURY FARMING November 2026
DAIRY
25
Calls for binding dispute resolution with Canada
The Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand has welcomed efforts to strengthen trade with Canada but says a process of annual talks will be too slow to resolve pressing dairy concerns. supplied by ] Article DCANZ ] The Association (DCANZ) is calling on the Government to pursue legal dispute resolution if the first round of talks fails to deliver rapid progress. DCANZ’s call follows the recent announcement that New Zealand and Canada will set up an annual trade and investment Dialogue to grow trade and lift exports, and that the dialogue will work through trade issues. DCANZ Chief Executive Kimberly Crewther said DCANZ has longstanding concerns about subsidised Canadian milk protein exports harming New Zealand dairy exports. “A stronger relationship with Canada requires timely resolution of these serious dairy trade concerns,” Crewther said. “If the first round of talks does not deliver rapid progress, we urge the Government to move to formal, legal dispute resolution. “Canada’s subsidised dairy exports are already harming New Zealand exporters in global protein markets. Its government-backed milk management and pricing system subsidises milk protein for Canadian processors, allowing them to undercut unsubsidised New Zealand exporters. “These trade-distorting practices are inconsistent with Canada’s commitments under the WTO Agreement on Agriculture.” Crewther said the commercial stakes are substantial. “We estimate Canada’s subsidised dairy protein exports put hundreds of millions of dollars in New Zealand export returns at risk each year.” She said DCANZ has previously asked the Government to initiate formal WTO dispute proceedings with Canada and continues to view this binding legal resolution as an essential part of the way forward. “Bilateral talks can advance many parts of the New Zealand-Canada trade relationship.
But after years without resolution on dairy, talks alone are unlikely to be successful. “Canada has already repeatedly rejected New Zealand’s concerns and has a history of changing trade-distorting practices only after an adverse dispute settlement finding. “Legal dispute resolution offers a clear, rules-based path out of the stalemate-and a better prospect of resolution than another round of talks without a binding outcome. “Canada and New Zealand both helped establish the WTO Alternative Dispute Resolution Procedures. Choosing to use an available, rules-based process is not a black mark on the relationship. Instead, it demonstrates confidence in the international trading system and maturity in the bilateral relationship.”
Action wanted: Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand Chief Executive Kimberly Crewther is urging the Government to take firm action against Canada as its subsidised dairy protein exports put hundreds of millions of dollars in New Zealand export returns at risk each year.
Crewther said the dairy trade war between the United States and Canada further underscores the urgency of using an independent, rules-based process to address New Zealand’s concerns.
“The North American dispute risks pushing more subsidised Canadian dairy protein into other global markets-making timely legal resolution more urgent, not less.”
26 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
DAIRY
The West Coast: where farm ownership is within reach We talk a lot about getting the next generation onto the farming ladder, but if we genuinely want young farmers to own land, we also need to talk about where that opportunity still exists. Right now, the West Coast deserves a serious look. For aspiring farm owners who have built equity, livestock and experience but are finding it hard to secure their first farm, the Coast offers something different. The West Coast offers a quality of life that is hard to compare and needs to be lived to be understood, with most farm businesses being self-contained owneroperator farming businesses. Historically, the West Coast was seen as the place to get a foothold and trade your way up in farming. Dairying on the Coast is underpinned by Westland Milk Products, a proven international dairy company. Last season was very much a nod to the good old days, with 20 West Coast dairy farms changing hands for approximately $63.5 million.
Reflecting improved farm profitability, stronger balance sheets, and confidence on the part of rural lenders in the longer-term outlook for the Coast.
Our team can play a big role in ensuring you get good advice on location and climate influences too. The good news is it only rains at night.
The average dairy farm sold last season was 165 effective hectares, producing around 125,000kgMS, with a median sale price of $3.2 million or approximately $19,000 per effective hectare. These numbers illustrate why the West Coast continues to attract attention.
West Coast dairy farms continue to trade at a substantial discount compared to other established dairy regions, while producing superior operating returns. We are now seeing the next generation viewing this differential as the opportunity to get ahead.
There are also different ways to make the move. Alongside dairy units, grazing and finishing opportunities can provide another pathway into land ownership or complement an existing farming business.
At Property Brokers, one of our goals is to help more young New Zealanders take that first step onto the rural property ladder. For some, the opportunity may not be where they originally expected to find it. The West Coast could just be the place to start.
Buying a farm on the West Coast, like anywhere, requires good due diligence. Location, infrastructure, climatic risk and capital expenditure all matter, and the market is clearly distinguishing between quality properties and those requiring significant investment.
Gareth Cox 021 250 9714 Canterbury/West Coast Rural Manager & Sales Consultant
Westland 117 Burrough Road, Whataroa
First farm opportunity • 125.184 ha dairy unit • Productive, free-draining alluvial soils, reliable rainfall and a well-developed dairy platform • Currently milking approx 280 cows • Production of 97,484 kgMS in the 2025/26 season • Tidy 22 ASHB with in-shed feeding, calf-rearing facilities, additional farm sheds
Buller 302 Kohaihai Road, Karamea
For Sale From $2,825,000 + GST (if any) View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/HKR235392 Gareth Cox M 021 250 9714 Anna Hart M 027 294 9678
Westland 192-306 Johnston Road, Kowhitirangi
Strong production & infrastructure • Well-established 273.56 ha dairy unit • Run as part of a larger 50:50 sharemilking operation • Approx. 260 effective ha • Production average 180,455 kgMS past 3 seasons • 36 ASHB and multiple implement sheds • 60m x 20m herd home • Main home, second home and single-man’s quarters
For Sale $4,950,000 + GST (if any) View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/WER212521 Gareth Cox M 021 250 9714 Paul Murray M 027 256 9967
Westland 331 State Highway 6, Whataroa Deadline Sale
• 208 ha dairy unit, comprising approx 206ha effective • Productive operation with scope to lift production • Milking 390 cows with 3 year average of 132,000 kgMS • 34 ASHB with 350 cow yard • Dedicated AI race and 250 cow herd home • Two well-presented homes
Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 | pb.co.nz
For Sale From $4,690,000 + GST (if any) View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/HKR102662 Anna Hart M 027 294 9678 Gareth Cox M 021 250 9714
Versatile grazing opportunity • 113.89 ha property (80 ha effective) • 7 titles offers genuine flexibility for grazing, cut and carry or contracting operations • Offered as a 1.63 ha lifestyle block inclusive of the homestead, plus 112 ha (approx.) • Three-bedroom and two bathroom home • Substantial workshop with 3-phase power
For Sale Deadline Sale closes, 4pm, Wed 25 November 2026 View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/HKR238813 Anna Hart M 027 294 9678 Gareth Cox M 021 250 9714
Proud to be here
Q039304
Proven platform, production potential
DAIRY
CANTERBURY FARMING November 2026
27
Why both dolomite and lime may be required for growth
] with Peter Burton The movement away from the reliance on synthetic nitrogen for sustained pasture growth is gaining momentum. The price of urea is the primary driver, and increasingly high responses are already required for its use to be cost effective. Nitrogen fixed by clover is the alternative. It’s low cost, and the superior quality of clover relative to grasses for lactating and rapidly growing animals is never debated. All lamb fatteners appreciate that as a single provider of nutrition clover is the ultimate. Growth rates of all young ruminants are fastest when fed a diet of clover dense pasture. A large part of the reason for this is the much higher calcium concentration in clovers relative to grass. Grass typically does not exceed 0.7% calcium while clover contains close to twice that with mature red clovers up to 2.5%. A further reason is that the digestibly of clover is higher which means animals can physically eat more kilograms of pasture in a twenty-four-hour period. A question often asked by those contemplating growing more clover in their pasture is, does it have to be planted. We are yet to find a situation where clover does not flourish when the right nutrient conditions are met, although broadcasting seed may well provide peace of mind. Clovers flourish in soils where pH is close to 6.3, often reached when the Base Saturation calcium levels are 65-70% Lime is required to lift soil pH levels from a typical grassland 5.8 and as rule of thumb 2.5 tonne/ha of high-quality ag lime is a good start. The extra calcium applied will necessarily reduce the availability of magnesium and this
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Alternative: Nitrogen fixed by clover is the alternative to a reliance on synthetic nitrogen.
is where dolomite becomes a serious consideration. Intensive dairy operations require animals to ingest extra magnesium regularly and as the late Professor Tom Walker of Lincoln University stated, “...If my diet were deficient... I would rather correct it by daily increments...” Dolomite from Golden Bay, the site of the
only dolomite mine in the country, contains 11.5% magnesium and 24% calcium, with a similar liming effect as the same amount of lime. Although, based on some soil test models a heavy dressing is recommended, experience over the last thirty years shows that 220kg/ha is sufficient for plant magnesium
levels to lift to between 0.22 and 0.25%, the level necessary for optimum animal performance. A truck and trailer load of 30 tonne is sufficient to cover 136ha. Where this is not enough to cover all available hectares, targeting lambing and calving paddocks along with the better performing areas provides a marked lift in overall farm performance. Dolomite is an ancient seabed deposit and therefore carries with it a wide range of trace minerals. Although at very low concentrations, they do help replace those lost through weathering and drainage over past years. Unlike more soluble magnesium fertilisers where any beneficial effect is limited to a few months the benefits of dolomite last a minimum of twelve months. This means that an autumn application ensures very few clinical calcium/magnesium related issues in late winter and spring, and any animals that may require extra support are normally quickly restored to full health. For more information call 0800 436 566 (4Dolomite).
28 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
DAIRY
Nitrogen fertiliser use has climbed nine-fold since 1990
As Canterbury farmers look at their fertiliser spend, one number from the research stands out. Since 1990, New Zealand’s nitrogen fertiliser use has climbed roughly nine-fold, driven mainly by the dairy sector.
] with Dr Gordon Rajendram
79 to 212 kg N/ha per year where visually, clover in pasture, was found to be between Average application rates on dairy pasture 9% and 20%. have gone from about 31 kg N/ha in 1990/91 That is free nitrogen, with no spreader and to around 168 kg N/ha by 2019/20, and as no invoice. Clover is high-quality feed for your a soil scientist working across New Zealand, animals with ME values around 13 MJ/kg I want farmers thinking about what that shift DM, so it does two jobs at once. has done to their clover. The problem is that fertiliser nitrogen What began as a tactical tool for filling works against it. For every kilogram of N apfeed gaps has become, on many farms, a plied, clover’s own fixation can drop by an esyear-round habit. That habit has a cost that timated 0.25 to 0.5 kg. You pay for nitrogen is easy to miss because it happens below and then lose some of the nitrogen you were the surface. getting for nothing. Clover is doing a lot for you. Working with Clover is under pressure from other direcRhizobium bacteria in its roots, it pulls nitro- tions. It often makes up less than 20% of gen out of the atmosphere and feeds it into pasture dry matter, it is patchy, and its contriyour pasture, with measured fixation rates of bution swings with the seasons. Clover root weevil has made productive stands harder to hold. Nairn Electrical, proudly supporting rural Canterbury since 1975. Meanwhile, about two
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The catch is that fixing nitrogen takes a lot of energy, and these bacteria usually have to draw it from plant or soil carbon.
thirds of our urea is imported and its manufacture is energy intensive, which leaves farmers exposed on both cost and supply.
So where do microbes fit in? Beyond clover’s partnership with Rhizobium, nitrogen-fixing bacteria live free in the soil. The catch is that fixing nitrogen takes a lot of energy, and these bacteria usually have to draw it from plant or soil carbon. My research is asking whether the right microbial partnerships could ease that constraint and add to the nitrogen your pasture already gets from clover. My view of the bigger picture is that nitrogen should complement clover, not crowd it out. Used strategically, fertiliser fills gaps. Used constantly, it can undermine the free biological nitrogen and feed growing in your paddocks. With fertiliser costs under pressure, my message is straightforward: look closely at how much nitrogen you are applying and what it is doing to your clover, rather than repeating last season’s programme out of habit. Watch out for my next column, where I reveal more findings from the research.
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CANTERBURY FARMING November 2026
DAIRY
29
Probiotics expected to result in big changes in a hot summer Any additive that improves digestion of the whole diet will have a cumulative effect over prolonged use in dairy herds. supplied by ] Advertorial ] Probiotic Revolution
Heat stress: Chris Collier of Probiotic Revolution is confident his probiotics will help reduce the impact of heat stress as well as digestion of supplements and poorer quality summer pasture.
Chris Collier of Probiotic Revolution claims he has ample evidence that this is the case on farms that have used probiotics all season.
Faster cycling of cows With the use of probiotics pre and post calving, farmers are now reporting 24-to-30-day intervals from calving to first heats. Chris maintains that this is so far outside the norm of 42 days that it points to a significant improvement in digestion. Overseas research into the use of a combination of 3 probiotic strains highlighted that sub-clinical ketosis will suppress appetite and intake of cows for up to 6 weeks after calving. However, by improving cellulose and fiber digestion – resulting in increased blood glucose, appetite and pasture intake will increase. “Cows also don’t lose body weight as fast as usual and can easily deal with any blood ketones and cycle quicker.
Research evidence of improved digestion In 2022, Probiotic Revolution tested a formulation with a higher bacterial inclusion rate at Lincoln University. The laboratory evaluation recorded a 20% increase in acetate levels, consistent with a change in rumen fermentation indicating improved fibre digestion Chris believes this explains the benefits farmers report when feeding probiotics over
ter lactation curve and better production persistence.
Improving the formulations Probiotic Revolution has continued developing its products, including increasing the inclusion of Cultron, a yeast culture containing concentrated fermentation metabolites. Assessments on Cultron, like Probiotic Revolution’s tests at Lincoln University indicate it will have better dry matter digestibility and improved feed conversion to the companies’ previous formulations.
Planning for an El Nino summer
longer periods, particularly as pasture matures and supplements are needed. “A small gain in the short-term results in bigger cumulative gains in the long term.”
On one farm with consistent summer feeding peak production over 3 years of probiotic use was 5.5% higher but by 1 April, daily production was 25% higher, indicating a flat-
With an El Nino summer Chris is confident his probiotics will help reduce the impact of heat stress as well as digestion of supplements and poorer quality summer pasture. “Ultimately we want to reduce the rate of decline that is associated with poorer quality summer feed”
A three-year farm comparison Measuring the effect on summer production can be challenging because feed supply, weather and management vary between seasons.
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30 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
WATER & IRRIGATION
Water security for food producers Horticulture New Zealand is welcoming the focus on improving water security for New Zealand’s food-producing regions.
] by Kent Caddick The National Party released a water and fertiliser policy for farmers and growers before this month’s general election. HortNZ General Manager Policy and Advocacy Monique Andrew said reliable access to water is fundamental to producing fresh fruit and vegetables, sustaining regional economies and managing increasing climate variability. “Water security is one of the most significant constraints on horticultural growth in many regions,” Andrews said. “A clearer pathway for water storage and irrigation development would give growers and their communities greater certainty while strengthening New Zealand’s climate resilience and future food supply.” She said HortNZ has long advocated for a nationally coordinated, long-term approach to water planning and infrastructure that accounts for future food-production needs, population growth, climate change and environmental objectives. “For horticulture, community-scale and shared storage are particularly important. Onfarm options are often constrained by limited available land, while collective schemes can improve access to water for high-value food production and provide greater certainty over the long term.” Andrews said HortNZ supports initiatives including the Makauri Aquifer Recharge project in Tairawhiti and the Heretaunga Sustainable Water Users Group in Hawke’s Bay. “Both are exploring alternative, more reliable water sources for growers and demonstrate the value of collective approaches to resilient food production. “Horticulture needs practical policy set-
Water security: HortNZ General Manager Policy and Advocacy Monique Andrew says reliable access to water is fundamental to producing fresh fruit and vegetables, sustaining regional economies and managing increasing climate variability.
tings that allow water to be stored when it is plentiful, shared where appropriate and used efficiently when it is needed. “Investment in water infrastructure must be backed by planning and consenting frameworks that enable this while maintaining sound environmental safeguards.” Andrews said HortNZ will continue working with growers, communities and all political parties to advance practical solutions that improve water security, support environmental stewardship and enable sustainable horticultural growth.
‘
HortNZ will continue working with growers, communities and all political parties to advance practical solutions. Monique Andrew HortNZ General Manager
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31
What comes after the RMA? After 35 years, the Resource Management Act (RMA) is being replaced.
Deanna Hay ] with Aqualinc ]
On 30 September 2026, New Zealand’s new planning Acts received Royal Assent and became law, marking the start of the transition to a new planning framework. While the new legislation is now in force, existing plans, resource consents, and consenting processes will remain in place during the transition period while the new system is gradually implemented. The key questions are what has changed, what remains the same, and what the reforms could mean for water management in the years ahead.
What has changed? The RMA is being replaced by two separate pieces of legislation: • The Planning Act, which focuses on land-use planning and development; and • The Natural Environment Act, which focuses on the management, use and protection of natural resources, including freshwater.
What happens next? While the new legislation has now received Royal Assent, the transition to the new framework will occur over time as new policies, standards, and planning documents are developed.
For now, existing regional and district plans remain operative, resource consents continue to be processed, and compliance and monitoring activities continue under the current framework. Existing resource consents will generally remain in place during the transition period, and consent holders must continue to comply with their consent conditions. A significant part of the transition will involve developing new policies, standards, and planning documents that will support the operation of the new system. These documents will help guide future decisions about land use, infrastructure, natural resources, and environmental management at both national and regional levels. Resource consents are expected to form part of the resource management system under the new framework, supported by new policies, standards, and regional planning documents.
What about water? The new legislation will establish the framework for future freshwater management, but many of the practical details are still to be worked through. Future direction, environmental limits, and regional planning documents will determine how freshwater resources are managed under the new system.
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Areas to watch as the new framework develops include: • How freshwater allocation and associated rules will be addressed under the new framework. • How environmental limits will be developed and applied. • Future consenting pathways. • How existing water permits and replacement consents will be addressed under the new framework. Consent holders with permits approaching expiry may also wish to keep an eye on further developments during the transition period, particularly around replacement consent requirements and consent duration arrangements.
What does this mean in practice? At present, there is no immediate change to existing resource consent obligations. For most operations, the priorities remain the same: • Continue complying with existing consent conditions. • Maintain efficient water-use, environmental and farm management records. • Stay informed as new national direction and regional planning documents are developed. The practical effects of the reforms will become clearer as new policies, regional plans, and planning documents are developed during the transition period.
32 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
FORESTRY & LOGGING
Normal to above normal tropical cyclone activity expected The Southwest Pacific could experience at least four severe tropical cyclones reaching category 3 or higher this season, according to the 2026/27 Tropical Cyclone Outlook coordinated by Earth Sciences New Zealand.
supplied by ] Article Earth Sciences NZ ] Tropical cyclones have a significant impact across the Southwest Pacific, with the season starting in November and lasting through to April. This coming season, significant differences are expected between the western and eastern parts of the region, with the risk of impacts expected to be higher near and to the east of the International Date Line. Earth Sciences New Zealand Principal Scientist for climate and environmental applications Dr Andrew Lorrey said there are strong indications that the Southwest Pacific is likely to see an increase in cyclone activity relative to recent years. “During past strong El Niño events like the one that’s currently unfolding, we’ve typically seen elevated numbers of cyclones across the region, along with more activity to the east of the International Date Line. This is an area that’s usually fairly quiet,” Lorrey said. “Over the long term, cyclone numbers have been gradually decreasing in the Southwest Pacific, but there can be prominent year-to-year variability. Extended weather forecasts indicate we may also have an early start to the tropical cyclone season in the region this year.” The tropical cyclone risk for New Zealand this year is normal, with the risk expected to be greater in late summer and autumn. “New Zealand’s most active months for ex tropical cyclones are usually February and March, but some of them can visit us much
This season: Southwest Pacific Tropical Cyclone Risk for the 2026-27 season. Supplied by Earth Sciences New Zealand
earlier, and they can also occur beyond the end of April. This year there is the potential that northern and western areas facing the Tasman Sea have more of a chance of experiencing a decaying storm than eastern regions,” Lorrey said. The Tropical Cyclone Outlook expects that seven to eleven named tropical cyclones could occur in the Southwest Pacific over the season. “Communities across the Pacific should pay attention to forecasts and heed official
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advice if a weather warning related to a tropical cyclone is issued,” Lorrey said. The Southwest Pacific Tropical Cyclone Outlook is coordinated by Earth Sciences New Zealand, and is developed with the contributions of MetService, the University of Newcastle and meteorological services across the Pacific Islands. Read the full 2026/27 Southwest Pacific Tropical Cyclone Outlook here: niwa.co.nz/climate/ southwest-pacific-tropical-cyclone-outlook.
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CANTERBURY FARMING November 2026
FORESTRY & LOGGING
33
Air of positivity in the market More positive news to report this month with most log market fundamentals in a favourable context.
Allan Laurie ] with ] Laurie Forestry Ltd
Prices are generally firm across domestic and export segments. Demand is strong and the mood in both is positive. The positive vibes are an interesting phenomena, when there is so much bad news out there, mostly promulgated by Donald Trump’s stupidities. It appears the rest of us are just getting on with it. Amazing isn’t it. Donald can announce a wonderful new diesel purchase of initially 300,000 gallons of diesel from Putin and he thinks he is wonderful. This volume of diesel will sustain US consumption for about 4 hours, so I am uncertain how this, and future sales, can be viewed as a good thing given the sales will only serve to assist Putin’s war efforts. Meanwhile, your average Russian citizen is facing shortages at the pump. Perhaps the “stupid is” statement by Forest Gump might be changed to “bizarre is bizarre as” when one attempts to describe that which surrounds Donald T. Meanwhile in the world of normality, both China and India are experiencing good demand with sales prices firming albeit not wildly so. China eastern seaboard softwood log inventory has increased by about 120,000 m3 to 2.5mil m3. But this was entirely expected as the China golden week holiday took place whilst vessels filled with New Zealand logs continued to arrive. The very positive news out of China is threefold. Softwood log daily usage post-holiday is running well over 60,000 m3 per day as at mid-October. This was expected, but the fact it is happening is improving the air of positivity.
China manufacturing numbers are continuing to improve. This has been described by one market commentator as a clear signal China’s broader manufacturing base is “returning to expansionary territory”. Wood use is a very large component of China manufacturing and the resulting exports which in turn is positive news for Kiwiforest owners. China trader margins have closed reflecting some domestic price improvements. To reiterate, trading margins reflect what traders buy the logs for versus what they sell them for. Trading margins have more typically been about negative US$6-7 per m3. As at mid-October the CFR price, being the price landed at a China port, is US$132 per m3. The selling price by traders is currently averaging US$128 with a US$4 loss viewed as positive. I was asked recently what the impacts of diesel cost increases were across the forestry sector. My research suggests, on an average day there are about 515 logging crews operating in New Zealand and about 2,500 logging truck and trailer units taking the logs to market. The combined annual diesel usage of this sector is estimated to be north of 300mil litres per annum, or 1.4mil litres per day. Your average litre of Diesel cost $1.81 in October 2025 and $3.16 in October month to date, a difference of $1.35. This then tells me the forest harvest and transport sector is paying north of $400 mil more per annum for diesel than it was a year ago. This equates to close to $2mil per day. These numbers do not include the loaders at sawmills or the plant used by our marshalling and stevedore companies or the many service vehicles used to keep the fleet going.
I cannot understate how immensely proud everyone in the forestry sector should be. Taking the diesel price challenges head on, keeping the wood moving and ensuring fantastic returns to forest growers, erstwhile not seeking accolade or recognition. This is truly remarkable of the amazing 22,000+ people who are just getting on with it. I have also been asked to comment on the impacts of the India Free Trade Agreement. The prior to tariff had New Zealand at a US$6-$7 per m3 disadvantage compared to other supplies, primarily from Australia and Uruguay. The removal of this cost imposition will
see New Zealand logs displace Australia logs primarily. New Zealand logs are much favoured by India sawmill owners, so in the absence of a tariff, New Zealand log supply should increase or Aussie forest growers will have to discount to maintain market share. In short, my read of it at the moment is the tariff is unlikely to result in a price increase netted back to New Zealand but the sales volumes should increase. As always, please remember the thoroughly important message. It remains 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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34 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
LIVESTOCK
Greater liveweight gain in Vitalise ewes An on-farm pilot trial investigating calcium and magnesium supplementation in late-pregnancy and lactating ewes has recorded encouraging results, with ewes offered Vitalise gaining 4.8kg more liveweight than the control group from pre-lambing to weaning. supplied by ] Article ] CP Lime Vitalise is a pelletised mineral supplement produced by CP Lime and originally developed for dairy cattle. The formulation used in the pilot supplied calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and trace elements. The pilot trial, conducted by Dr Samuel Dennis at Isherwood Research Station, Glenroy, was designed to explore the potential role of mineral supplementation during a period of high nutritional demand. Lighter twin-bearing ewes were deliberately selected for the pilot, with one group offered Vitalise from one month before lambing and a control group not offered Vitalise. At the beginning of the trial, the groups were almost identical in weight, averaging 58.9kg in the control group and 58.8kg in the Vitalise group. By weaning, control ewes averaged 62kg, while Vitalise ewes averaged 66.7kg. Overall, the control ewes gained 3.1kg compared with 7.9kg for the Vitalise ewes. “The control ewes had put on 3.1 kilograms, and the Vitalise ewes had put on 7.9 kilograms, almost five kilograms more than the control ewes,” Dennis said. “This was a dramatic difference. They were in much better order.” Lamb growth was essentially the same
between the groups, with mean weaning weights of 27kg in the control group and 27.2kg in the Vitalise group. Dennis interpreted the comparable lamb growth alongside the difference in ewe condition as an indication that the control ewes had drawn more heavily on their own nutrient reserves during lactation. He also observed differences in ewe vigour during the pilot. Some control ewes were reluctant to move with the flock, while the Vitalise ewes generally appeared more active. Blood samples taken from five ewes in each group at tailing indicated higher magnesium concentrations among the Vitalise ewes, while calcium levels were similar between the groups. Dennis had also introduced Vitalise to his wider ewe flock about a month before lambing, when signs consistent with calcium deficiency had begun to appear. He observed no further hypocalcaemia symptoms in the main flock from that point until lambing. While the pilot did not provide sufficient data to quantify any effect on ewe mortality, Dennis said the results around ewe condition were particularly encouraging. “Better condition at weaning means the ewes go into summer in good condition and only need to be maintained through to mating,” he said.
“Poor condition at weaning means condition must be gained somehow over summer, on lower quality feed, and may not be possible due to drought. Anything that allows ewes to gain condition over spring helps to match feed demand to supply and to the environment.” Dennis said the economics also looked encouraging. Recorded Vitalise usage over the 119day ewe trial averaged about 0.41kg per ewe and her lambs, including any spillage. Dennis suggested farmers could budget on around half a kilogram per ewe over spring.
“If that half a kilogram of Vitalise can result in almost a five kilogram increase in ewe liveweight at weaning, the economics of it stack up very well,” he said. Dennis said the results were encouraging enough for him to continue using the product in his own flock. “I’m very impressed with this product. I think it made a major difference to my ewes this spring and the trial results bear that out,” he said. “This is a product that I am incorporating into my own management and will be using every year.”
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CANTERBURY FARMING November 2026
LIVESTOCK
35
Young Deer Farmer of the Year crowned for 2026 competition The future of the deer industry was on full display recently as 28 competitors gathered at Peel Forest Estate for the second running of the Young Deer Farmer of the Year competition.
Cameron Frecklington ] by DINZ ]
Held on a biennial cycle, the event builds on the success of the inaugural competition in 2024 and continues to demonstrate the depth of talent coming through New Zealand’s deer farming sector. Organised by the South Canterbury/North Otago branch of the New Zealand Deer Farmers Association (NZDFA), the competition attracted a strong field of entrants keen to test their practical skills and industry knowledge against their peers. Competitors rotated through a series of stations reflecting the diverse skillset required on a modern deer farm. Challenges included fencing, tractor operation, velvet grading, hard antler scoring, and other practical tasks designed to assess both competence and confidence in everyday farming situations. Reuben Danen of Lincoln Hills claimed the Young Deer Farmer of the Year title, emerging from a strong field of competitors after a full day of practical and technical challenges. While the competition recognised individual excellence, many attendees felt one of the event’s biggest successes was the positive atmosphere that developed throughout the day. As one attendee observed, “The event just had a great vibe. Very positive, run exceptionally smoothly, with all
competitors and judges at the various stations very engaged. Hats off to the branch for their excellent work putting such a fantastic event.” The success of the competition has also sparked discussion about how similar events could be delivered elsewhere around the country. While South Canterbury/North Otago has long been one of the NZDFA’s strongest and most active branches, there is potential for other regions to develop their own competitions, whether at a branch level or through collaborative regional events that bring together neighbouring branches. Initiatives such as these not only showcase practical farming excellence, but also help strengthen networks, build confidence, and encourage the next generation of industry leaders. Looking beyond the farm gate, recent market feedback also provides reasons for confidence. DINZ Markets Manager Terry Meikle has recently returned from a three-week market visit to Europe, where he met with importers, distributors, chefs, and customers across several key markets. Feedback from the visit was encouraging. Despite ongoing economic uncertainty across parts of Europe, customers continue to express strong confidence in New Zealand farmed venison and its position within the premium protein category. A recurring theme from conversations was
the value customers place on consistency, quality and trust. Many of the relationships underpinning the European market have been built over decades, and customers continue to view New Zealand as a reliable supplier of premium venison backed by strong farming systems and robust traceability. The visit also provided an opportunity to discuss how consumer expectations continue to evolve. Sustainability remains an important consideration, but customers are increasingly seeking evidence and verification alongside environmental credentials. Provenance, transparency, and confidence in production systems are becoming as important as the product itself. Another encouraging takeaway was the growing discussion around opportunities to extend venison consumption beyond the traditional European game season. While the seasonal market remains important, there is increasing interest in creating occasions for consumers to enjoy venison throughout the year, whether through new menu formats, different cuts, or highlighting the product’s natural nutritional qualities.
The trip concluded with attendance at SIAL Paris, one of the world’s largest food innovation exhibitions. Events such as these provide a valuable opportunity to stay close to changing consumer trends, maintain relationships with existing customers and identify future opportunities for New Zealand farmed venison in an increasingly competitive global marketplace.
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36 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
FARM VEHICLES & MACHINERY
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Farmers paying the price for mobile blackspots
Mobile phone coverage and reliability is going backwards fast in rural areas, and farming families are paying the price.
] by Kent Caddick That’s according to Federated Farmers following the release of their latest Rural Connectivity Survey. Since the 3G network was switched off in March this year, farmers have been even more frustrated with black spots and poor reception. “Our Rural Connectivity Survey a year ago found service levels were already hit and miss,” Federated Farmers telecommunications spokesperson Mark Hooper said. “This year’s survey of nearly 650 farmers paints an even bleaker picture,” Hooper said. “Half of farms now have mobile coverage on less than half of the property. A third of farmers told us they have a place on their farm that previously worked on 3G but no longer does. “For most, these holes in service aren’t just on one part of the farm.” Hooper said patchy or non-existent coverage creates obvious risks when there’s an accident or emergency, especially when people are working alone. “Nearly two in three farmers told us they can’t rely on reaching 111 from most of their farm, and 8% said connecting to emergency services wasn’t possible anywhere on the property.” He said survey responses show there’s a very real financial cost as well. “With 3G coverage gone, one in sev-
en farms had to replace equipment that relied on that network such as irrigation and pivot controls, cow collars and other farm systems rather than phones. “Some had to spend many thousands of dollars, and the vast majority were replacing gear that was still working.” According to the survey two in three farmers paid for workarounds such as satellite broadband, however only 15% regard satellite-to-mobile as an adequate substitute for a cell tower. “Earlier talk from telcos that rural residents don’t have to worry about the shutdown of 3G networks has proved hollow,” Hooper said. “The assurances were that the vast majority of areas previously covered by 3G now have 4G and 5G. “Our survey shows how different wireless frequencies travel across the landscape, and whatever other factors might be at play, have left too many farming families and businesses with significantly lower standards of service and reliability. “It’s of considerable concern to hear feedback that reporting problems to providers often doesn’t result in a fix, with some providers pretty much denying there’s an issue.” The survey, carried out in late August/early September, shows of 126 farms that reported coverage and reliability problems, just two had the problem resolved.
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“That’s very frustrating and indicates their concerns aren’t being taken seriously. At the very least, surely we can get more farmers hooked back up to the service standards they had with 3G.” Information for this article was supplied by Federated Farmers. For more go to: www. fedfarm.org.nz.
CANTERBURY FARMING November 2026
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CANTERBURY FARMING November 2026
39
Goehring and Rozencwajg
Those of us nervously following global energy prices and the conflicts in the Middle East and Eastern Europe, should consider a solid recent piece by natural resource investors Goehring and Rozencwajg (G&R), based in New York.
] by Solis Norton Titled ‘Why the tanks have not (yet) run dry’ it draws on their own analysis and expertise and diverges from International Energy Agency (IEA) messaging. The core premise relates to an odd inconsistency. Despite the closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupting about 15 million barrels per day (MBPD) of global oil production for six months, global stored inventories seem scarcely to have dropped. The IEA attribute this to global resilience and weakening global demand. G&R contend, instead, that reduced refinery activity
] with Rob Cope-Williams Perhaps we will be able to turn on the TV news, catch a radio news cast and read a newspaper and get some news again. Not that what we normally get is news, it is often a version of a press release. Yes, you are right, during my 40 odd years in the media we delivered news and reporters reported, but perhaps I am being a wee bit grumpy about the modern style, or lack of it. I continue to be sad about the lack of support the farming industry gets from the mainstream media. They are great at picking on farmers for mistreatment of stock, which is a beat up be-
was the cause. G&R back up their position thusly. Crack spreads (the difference in price between finished products, e.g. diesel, and the crude oil it was made from) are at record highs; about $100 per barrel. Further, global air travel is up 5% year on year. Neither point suggests demand for oil products is weakening. G&R also describe an interesting counterpoint to the IEA’s figure of 450 million barrels as the draw down on global oil inventories. G&R reconstruct the IEA’s balance sheet and conclude that the draw down could be more like a billion barrels, with the difference hidden in unmeasurable non-OECD refined product inventories. That decline in refined product inventory could explain why countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka now show signs of fuel scarcity. These signs include failed tenders, rationing, and energy emergencies.
The true amount is hidden beneath thick layers of variation in the definition and interpretation of global oil inventories and storage. Still, what G&R are saying makes sense if it is summarised to; the wealthier countries have been better able to bid for finished products in a constrained market, causing poorer ones to draw down their reserves. Separate to G&R’s report, Ukraine has struck Russian oil facilities over three hundred times since 2022, and their rate and scale of attacks is increasing. The IEA report Russian refining capacity has dropped by 45% since the war began, fuel shortages now affect most regions there. Remaining global refining capacity is running red hot trying to keep up. While it’s all grist to the mill for the worry warts, looking out the window here in New Zealand it is still business as usual on the surface.
Underneath, deindustrialisation, declining energy consumption since 2019, and then the highest unemployment rate in a decade reported for the second quarter of 2026 point to deeper biophysical issues. Our combination of declining energy use and increasing effort needed to service, let alone expand, our highly complex infrastructure is now weighing heavily on our growth aspirations. We can work with this and successfully too. Get together, call a spade a spade, and bite down on the business of our real transition. This is not a slogan because we can and we do. A prime example was the GasNZ Forum this month in Wellington where vigorous, respectful, and open debate by practically minded experts was had on the future of New Zealand’s energy system. Congratulations to the organisers of that event and to its participants. This is the way forward, let’s go.
Back to normal, whatever that is The election is almost over and we can settle back into some form of normality. cause there was a case of cows standing in a muddy stream, but never a story about cows under cover in a shed with back scratchers, masses of feed on hand and being lovely and warm during the winter, and cool in the summer. I have defended the covered yards for cows when the issue comes up in conversation by pointing out the cows are allowed to walk out but they don’t. Why would they? They’ve got shelter and feed right there. Would the person who says it is cruel prefer to sleep in a loverly motel or sleep outside in the rain. Perhaps it is just the tall poppy syndrome
that the urban media don’t promote what is really happening out of town. Or perhaps it is simply that they don’t like success unless it is on a sporting field, racetrack or rowing lake. Even equine successes are overlooked because it involves farm animals, or am I just being picky? Anyway, with there being no expectations of positive information being reported about farming and farmers, I suppose we simply learn to blow our own trumpet. Get hold of your local MP and ask them to use the media to get your message across, plus invite your local paper to send a report-
er, for the want of another word, to your service club meetings when you have a special guest speaker. Push your local rural support team and get comments about how many people they have helped over the past few months. You know my feeling about mental health and a huge desire to help those who are suffering, so don’t be shy to get local doctors, MPs and whoever to go over the symptoms as often as they can. Remember someone who needs help will hide it and never talk about it until it is too late. Take care and be proud.
40 November 2026 CANTERBURY FARMING
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