Canterbury Farming, October 2025

Support: Greenpeace supporters showed their support for a motion to declare a nitrate emergency in canterbury at an environment canterbury council meeting

Council declares nitrate emergency

Canterbury’s regional council Environment Canterbury has passed a motion declaring the district is in a state of nitrate emergency due to the worsening issue of nitrates in drinking water.

] by Kent caddick

The decision, which was made in the final council meeting prior to the local body elections has been labelled as “a direct attack on farmers” by some in the farming community as well as being politically motivated scaremongering.

Councillor Vicky Southworth, who isn’t standing for re-election, said she moved the motion to signal to the incoming council how

urgent action is needed to be taken to address the issue which has worsened over the last 10 years.

ECan’s recent annual groundwater survey found both E. coli and nitrate concentrations were increasing.

Water samples were taken from 349 wells across the region, including both private domestic and irrigation supply wells, and community water supply wells.

Of the 301 wells with enough data to

analyse trends over the past decade, 62% showed rising levels of nitrate concentrations. The survey showed that nitrate-nitrogen concentrations varied across the region, with higher concentrations found in areas around and downstream of intensive farming and around 10% of wells were found to have nitrate-nitrogen levels above the Maximum Acceptable Value (MAV) for drinking water, which is 11.3 milligrams per litre.

in christchurch.

Dogs, mankind’s best friend

Most people like a well trained and affable dog. Their pure joy and enthusiasm for life is an example to all of us and their loyalty to their owners is quite remarkable.

] with bessie Paterson LLb

Ronald W Angland

& Son

Those dogs are the lucky ones and a whole body of law has arisen to try to deal with dogs which have not been socialised adequately.

The legislation relating to dogs is contained in the Dog Control Act 1996. The Act empowers Councils to establish a regime for dog ownership and keeping dogs under proper control. All dogs must be registered at the local authority, and all Councils have dog control officers who are obliged to ensure that the requirements of the Act are complied with.

The Act requires dog owners to keep their dogs under proper control at all times, en-

sure that their dog is registered, and provided with their daily needs for food, water, exercise and prevent any harm to others and damage to property.

Dog owners are legally responsible for all damage which their dogs may cause to other people’s property. This is commonly known as strict liability and the claimant does not have to prove the owner was negligent.

Recently there was an instance where a dog ran onto the road and caused significant damage to a passing motor car. Not only did the dog’s owner have to pay for its vet bill, she also had to pay the significant costs or repairs to the motor vehicle involved in the incident. Where a dog attacks a person or someone else’s pet, or farm stock it is like-

WE ARE BUYING!

ly that the owner may be fined or in extreme cases an order can be made for the dog to be “put down.”

For minor damage caused by a dog to other people’s property, a wise owner should accept liability and agree to rectify and pay for any damage caused by their dog. Otherwise, the incident can escalate into a major problem and cause an unnecessary rift in neighbourhood relations.

Dog owners also need to be aware that some insurance companies specifically exclude cover for damage caused by dogs and other pets.

Dog ownership imposes an obligation to be a responsible owner and provided the owner complies with the requirement of the

Dog Control Act they will enjoy a very rewarding relationship with their dog.

Recently I read a book entitled Thunder Dog, written by a blind man who had a guide dog. At the time of the attacks in New York he worked on the 75th floor of one of the World Trade Centre buildings. During the evacuation of the building the dog remained at his side and calmly descended with him (along with many other people) down the 75 flights of stairs to the ground floor. It was a remarkable example of a very noble dog’s devotion to duty.

this article has been prepared by bessie Paterson, a partner at ronald W Angland & Son, Lawyers, 2 chapman Street, Leeston.

ECan’s nitrate emergency divides farmers, council

FROM PAGE 1

Federated Farmers vice president Colin Hurst said the decision to declare a nitrate emergency is a shameless political stunt that won’t help anyone.

“It’s incredibly disappointing to see Environment Canterbury playing these kinds of petty political games,” Hurst said.

support of the motion at the council meeting in Christchurch.

“Environment Canterbury has listened to the voices of their constituents and finally acknowledged the seriousness of this issue.”

Greenpeace’s water testing programme has been running since 2021. Since then, Greenpeace has run 14 town hall water testing events in Canterbury.

“Declaring a nitrate emergency isn’t helpful or constructive. All it will do is create unnecessary panic and drive a wedge between our urban and rural communities.

“I think most reasonable Cantabrians will see the declaration for what it is: a cynical and alarmist stunt from a group of councillors trying to score points during the local body elections.”

Hurst said ECan’s decision is divisive and risks undermining the good work done by farmers, councils, iwi and the wider community over the last few decades.

“Nobody is disputing we have an issue with nitrates in Canterbury. It’s a longstanding challenge that our community have been aware of, and working on, for some time now.”

He said the situation hasn’t been helped by extreme anti-farming activist groups like Greenpeace spreading harmful misinformation about nitrates.

Greenpeace’s Canterbury-based spokesperson Will Appelbe said there is little doubt Canterbury is facing a nitrate emergency.

Greenpeace has carried out drinking water testing across the district over the past few years.

Appelbe was among a group of Greenpeace supporters who staged a protest in

Samples from bores around Ashburton had the highest nitrate levels on average in the region, with some samples being nearly double the Maximum Allowable Value (MAV) for nitrate in drinking water. Several town supplies in Canterbury also are experiencing escalating levels of nitrate, with Waimate’s town supply breaching the MAV in December 2024.

Appelbe said a recent Environment Canterbury study revealed 48% of private drinking wells tested for nitrate near Burnham exceeded the legal health limit of 11.3 mg/L

“Up until now, Environment Canterbury has completely failed in their duty to protect lakes, rivers, and drinking water from pollution from the intensive dairy industry,” he said.

“Their actions have meant that many families in Canterbury cannot safely drink the water coming out of their kitchen tap.”

“It’s great to see ECan finally acknowledging the scale of this escalating health crisis, but the work doesn’t stop here. It’s one thing to sign onto a pledge but another thing entirely to meet it.”

He said urgent action is needed given Environment Canterbury approved more than fifteen thousand extra dairy cattle onto the Canterbury plains in July.

Programmes to meet growing industry demand

Canterbury’s world-leading agricultural tertiary institution Lincoln University will offer three new programmes in 2026, aimed at helping to meet growing industry demand for specialised graduates with practical experience.

] by Kent caddick

The Bachelor of Landscape Management is designed to teach students how to manage our spaces with a long-term, strategic perspective and is the first of its kind in Australasia.

Students will learn from a wide array of fields, such as landscape architecture, design, planning, ecology, horticulture, sociology, culture and project management.

It’s a good alternative to the Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, which is a year longer and has a focus on design as opposed to management.

Programme Coordinator Jess Rae says students will be able to come into a new project and have the foundational knowledge to drive it where it needs to go.

“We’ve got some amazing spaces in New Zealand. Not just our parks and reserves, but our urban and rural areas are full of possibility. Here’s a chance to actually look at what it takes to run them and keep them for future generations.”

There are two new Taught Master’s degrees, the Master of Artificial Intelligence for Land Use and the Master of Bioprotection.

The Master of Artificial Intelligence for Land Use will help students become AI specialists across all land-based industries. They’ll have the skills to lead as the technology and industry develops.

Programme Coordinator Thilini Bhagya says AI has the ability to drastically im-

prove how we manage and make decisions about our land, from urban planning and water stewardship, to planting natives and climate change resilience. That opens the door for new and innovative solutions.

“These days we’re collecting so much data that no one can process it manually. AI doesn’t just sort through data; it learns from it, adapts to new contexts, and can predict outcomes that would otherwise be impossible to see.

“That helps us create smarter, evidencebased solutions.”

Protect your crop, farm and future.

The Master of Bioprotection is a new programme based on the former Master of Pest Management. It’s been rebuilt based on industry and alumni feedback to ensure students are getting the best education and qualification possible.

The programme offers students the chance to specialise in their area of interest and do a semester-long research placement with external organisations across the country.

Programme Coordinator Professor James Ross says the programme is a fast and ef-

Upskilling: Lincoln University’s new taught Master’s degree, Master of bioprotection, is a fast and effective way to upskill, learn from active researchers and get real industry experience.

fective way to upskill, learn from active researchers and get real industry experience.

“I’ve spoken to people in all the major organisations, there’s a demand for more people skilled in bioprotection.

“What they want is an employee who can hit the ground running. Someone who can come in and write an impact assessment or develop a pest control plan. These students will be able to do that.”

Information for this article was supplied by Lincoln University. For more go to: www.lincoln.ac.nz

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] with todd Mcclay

] Minister for Agriculture

Backing farmers and protecting food production

Farming is at the heart of New Zealand’s economy and way of life. Every job, business, and community in this country benefits when our farmers are thriving. That’s why this Government is making sure the rules are fair, practical, and focused on keeping productive farmland in food production.

In September Parliament passed legislation banning full farm-to-forest conversions from entering the Emissions Trading Scheme. This is a major win for rural New Zealand. It delivers on a key election commitment and responds directly to the concerns farmers have raised for years.

We all understand the importance of forestry – it provides jobs, exports, and plays a role in meeting our climate goals. But under the last Government’s rules, the ETS encouraged whole farms to be sold off for planting pines. That was never sustainable. It risked hollowing out rural communities, reducing food production, and undermining New Zealand’s long-term economic base.

By passing this law, we’re drawing a clear line: productive farmland must be protected. Farmers can now get on with the job of producing world-class food and fibre, without the uncertainty of watching whole properties converted to trees overnight.

This change is part of a much wider programme to restore balance and rebuild trust with the rural sector. Since coming into office, this Government has:

• Removed agriculture from the ETS.

• Introduced practical rules for winter grazing and stock exclusion.

• Improved the freshwater farm plan system.

• Rebalanced Te Mana o te Wai to properly recognise the importance of food production.

• Disbanded He Waka Eke Noa.

• Halted new Significant Natural Areas (SNAs).

• Kicked off a full overhaul of the Resource Management Act to deliver a system that works for farmers, not against them.

We’ve also backed farmers with new investment:

• A $246 million Primary Sector Growth Fund to co-invest in innovation that lifts productivity and resilience.

• $36 million to support farmer-led catchment groups.

• More support for Rural Support Trusts and local wellbeing initiatives.

• Over $400 million committed to accelerate emissions-reducing tools and technology without shutting down farms.

All of this is about one thing: backing farmers to succeed. Rural New Zealand doesn’t need more red tape or ideology from Wellington, it needs rules that are fair, policies

‘rural New Zealand doesn’t need more red tape or ideology from Wellington, it needs rules that are fair, policies that make sense, and a Government that trusts farmers to get on with producing the highquality food and fibre the world demands.

that make sense on the ground, and a Government that trusts farmers to get on with producing the high-quality food and fibre the world demands.

New Zealand farmers are some of the best in the world. When they do well, the whole country does well.

By banning farm-to-forest conversions and freeing up farming to thrive, we’re protecting the future of food production and ensuring stronger farmgate returns for years to come.

Show time again in Canterbury

Amidst sowing cereals, ryegrass and lambing, spring for Canterbury means nor-west winds, blossom, daffodils, and A&P shows.

] with rob cope-Williams

The tradition that brings locals together to compare livestock, produce and share bacon and egg pies with friends at the boot of the car.

Perhaps a wee dram to celebrate wins and the industry in general.

Perhaps it is fair to suggest the townsfolk no longer flock through the gate to gaze in wonder at the size of the bulls, look at the baking with watering mouths and wonder if the smell of horse sweat is pleasant or not.

Perhaps it is a situation that townsfolk have grown away from their rural neighbours, or they simply are too busy keeping their own heads above water.

Whatever the reason, A&P shows are very much a part of our DNA and like manners and common sense will never date.

I loved the incident at the historic motor racing meeting at Goodwood in the UK this year.

To highlight the achievements of multiple world champion driver Jim Clark, someone drove a flock of sheep through the shiny and very valuable race cars.

Their point was that Jim Clark was a Scottish sheep farmer.

One assumes the organisers displayed an orange and yellow flag telling drivers there is a slippery substance on the track once the sheep were cleared.

My praise of the incident is simply that farming was brought into the minds of literally thousands of people on track and watching TV.

I am not suggesting sheep and cattle being herded around the new stadium to get the same result, but there will be some who would love to give it a try, especially if it was when a concert was taking place.

In the meantime, we can enjoy the traditions that shows continue to provide for us, and although the world of stud breeding may have gone to performance record-

ing rather than straight conformation, it is still rather nice to show off the cream of your stock.

Plus, the commercial buyers do still turn up and that offers a chance to start having a

conversation about performance figures that just happened to be in the folder beside the grooming brushes.

Enjoy the spring shows, they are yours to appreciate.

A&P shows... very much a part of our DNA, and like manners and common sense will never date.

Alliance farmer-shareholders’ roadshow in Canterbury

Alliance Group is encouraging farmer-shareholders in Canterbury to register for its upcoming capital raise roadshow.

] by Kent caddick

The roadshow, which began last month in Southland, will have four ports of call in Canterbury to allow shareholders to hear from and question Alliance chair Mark Wynne and chief executive Willie Wiese on the proposed strategic investment partnership with Dawn Meats Group.

The proposed transaction would see Dawn Meats Group invest NZ$250 million to acquire 65 per cent of the shares in the Canterbury based Alliance Group, valuing Alliance at NZ$502 million on an enterprise basis, subject to shareholder acceptances, High Court and regulatory approvals.

Proceeds from the transaction would be used to reduce Alliance Group’s short-term working capital facility by approximately

NZ$200 million, accelerate the Board’s strategic capital expenditure programme and enable the distribution of up to $40 million to the co-operative, subject to shareholder livestock supply.

Registration is essential to ensure attendance as some venues have capacity limits, which means Alliance cannot guarantee entry for those who arrive without prior registration.

“We encourage all shareholders to attend one of the roadshow meetings,” Wynne said.

“This is an important opportunity to hear directly from the company, ask questions and gain a clear understanding of the proposed investment partnership.”

Shareholders can expect to receive a Scheme Booklet and accompanying information about a Special General Meeting in the coming weeks.

Ronald W. Angland & Son LAWYERS

Property | Family | Wills Trusts | Estates | EPAs | Rural Business | Traffic | Employment

Leeston (03) 324 3033

Email: lawyers@anglands.co.nz | www.anglands.co.nz Solicitors of Selwyn since 1965

Farmer-shareholders will also have an opportunity to vote or appoint a proxy to vote on their behalf.

The roadshow will run for approximately two weeks prior to the shareholder vote in October.

Talk to me: Alliance Group chair Mark Wynne (pictured) along with chief executive Willie Wiese will be visiting canterbury as part of the cooperative’s roadshow on the part sale to Dawn Meats Group.

Farmers can register for the roadshow meetings at www.alliance.co.nz/proposed-strategic-investmentpartnership/#register-for-roadshow the key dates for canterbury farmers are: thursday, October 2 from 18:30 to at the 20:30 Mackenzie community centre in Fairlie; Friday October 3: 09:30 –11:30 at the Ashburton Hotel in Ashburton; 13:30-15:30 at the Dunsandel community centre; and 18:00-20:00 in the Omihi community Hall.

] with Jo Luxton

]

Labour spokesperson

]

for Agriculture

Narrowing agricultural pathways would be a blow to our future

Recently, Education Minister Erica Stanford sent a clear, but troubling message to New Zealand’s students: if you’re academically ambitious, agriculture might not be for you.

In her announcement on the “future-focused” curriculum, she removed Agricultural and Horticultural Science as a standalone senior secondary subject.

Thankfully, we now hear that after a strong backlash the Minister has backtracked, pledging to keep Agricultural and Horticultural Science in schools in addition to a vocational pathway.

But her poor process and the lack of meaningful consultation reveals the Minister’s intentions that she would push through her agenda regardless of concerns raised by educators and the agriculture sector.

Narrowing curriculum pathways to the agricultural industry is a mistake for several key reasons.

First, New Zealand’s future agricultural workforce requires more than farmers. We need wrap-around people too, those working in science labs, agribusiness, policy, or technology. Without a standalone pathway in Agricultural and Horticultural Science, some students might look to pursue other fields, directly impacting our future workforce.

Second, many urban schools don’t currently offer the vocational agricultural pathways, and they can only get exposure through that curriculum pathway.

This means some students would lose the opportunity to learn about an entire sector simply because of where they live or what their school offers.

And third, in the Central North Island,

we’re hearing that demand for agricultural courses is higher than ever, sometimes even outpacing traditional sciences.

This tells us something important about how students see agriculture’s relevance in their future.

The future of agriculture extends far beyond the farm gate. It’s in laboratories, boardrooms, policy offices, and tech startups. It’s about building sustainable food systems, tackling big problems associated with

climate change, and increasing our global exports.

Students all over New Zealand, both rural and urban, should have access to these pathways, and education is the foundation that makes it possible.

What’s more, the decision to remove agriculture as a stand-alone curriculum subject came out of the blue. Educators and industry leaders were blindsided by the change. Some were even consulting on Level 1 curriculum

‘the decision to remove agriculture as a standalone curriculum subject came

out of the blue.

options, but there was no indication that the subject might be removed entirely.

And with only five days remaining for submissions on the proposed NCEA changes when the news broke, it only added insult to injury. It’s all disappointing, because education should always be about expanding opportunities, not closing doors.

This isn’t just about a school subject; it’s about respect for a vital sector and our next generation. The Ministers in this Government are detached from the realities on the ground and are making disconnected policy decisions in silos.

If National truly believes in growing the future of farming, exports, and rural innovation, they need to start listening and engaging in meaningful consultation.

Our students, teachers, and the entire sector deserve better than to be left on edge, forced to scramble in defence of their sudden decisions.

Nitrate denial is dairy’s Achilles heel

On their last sitting day before local elections the Canterbury’s regional council (ECAN) declared a nitrate emergency, ringing the alarm on still worsening contamination levels in the region’s drinking water.

] with Steve Abel ] Green Party Spokesperson ] for Agriculture

Agriculture Minister Todd McClay called the declaration “gimmicky”, in an attempt to diminish the critical water crisis caused by mass dairy intensification of the Canterbury plains over recent decades.

In response to questions I put during parliamentary scrutiny on the health risks of nitrate water contamination, former dairy-boss, now Act Minister, Andrew Hoggard retorted that “vegetables are full of nitrates too”. It’s obvious the Luxon Government, and the dairy industry they are beholden to, are in nitrate-denial. That’s a problem when the undeniable reality is that the biggest source of nitrate contamination in our water is dairy cow urine.

From the 1950s the world has known that too-much nitrate in drinking water is a health risk. The original reason a limit was placed on how much nitrate was allowed in drinking water is because of Blue Baby Syndrome.

Whereby if a newborn is fed infant formula made with high-nitrate water the nitrate effec-

tively de-oxygenates the baby’s blood turning them blue and risking coma and death.

In recent years other health risks have emerged. A number of substantive peer-reviewed and published studies out of Denmark, Italy, Spain and the USA show that long-term exposure to excessive nitrate in drinking water also increases the risk of bowel cancer. Even more concerning, very short-term exposure of mothers to excessive drinking-water nitrate during pregnancy increases the risk of pre-term birth and other harms to foetal development.

The obvious precaution against the emerging health risks is to avoid drinking water high in nitrate. The problem in New Zealand is heavily concentrated to rural areas because that’s where the cows are. The recent shut down of Gore’s drinking water due to excessive nitrate is because the majority of the town’s water supply comes from wells on a dairy farm. Those wells are the source of the contaminant.

Studies out of Otago University found 800,000 mainly rural New Zealanders were exposed to hazardous levels of nitrate in water. The same study found that 100 new cases of bowel cancer and 40 deaths per year in

New Zealand could be attributed to nitrate in drinking water.

No one should have to wonder if the water from their kitchen tap could be making them or their family sick. As Cantabrians go to the polls for the local elections, many will be acutely aware that their health may well depend on the outcome and select council candidates who have committed to providing safe water for all.

Central Government is clearly culpable. I called on the Luxon Government to take responsibility for the worsening nitrate problem. With a further 15,000 cows consented for the plains since this government’s removal of freshwater protections the problem will only get worse so long as politicians and dairy bosses stay in denial.

Your average dairy cow excretes around 20 litres of nitrate-rich urine a day. Another 15,000 cows mean an extra three hundred thousand litres of cow pee hitting the deck on-the-daily across the leaky alluvial soils of the plains. Add that to the 26 million litres per-day from the existing population of 1.3 million dairy cows.

The magnificent and pure aquifer beneath Canterbury is a natural treasure that is being contaminated by intensive dairy. When the water is sick, the people will be sick. This is the reality of the interconnected world we live in.

Cantabrians have a choice at the ballot box right-now and again in the general election next year. If they agree with protecting our freshwater and drinking water they need to vote for politicians with the courage to reign-in the dairy bosses, for all our sakes.

Federated Farmers push for national pest strategy

With rising numbers of feral animals hammering farm pasture, fences and native bush, Federated Farmers is calling for a national pest strategy.

] by Kent caddick

Federated Farmers has asked Parliament’s Primary Production Committee to set up a joint agency briefing to clarify the scale of New Zealand’s pest problem, what it means for climate change, and where the current governance framework is falling short.

“Farmers are constantly reporting bigger mobs of feral deer, wild pigs eating lambs, and huge flocks of Canada geese and ducks fouling farmland and waterways,” Federated Farmers meat and wool chair Richard Dawkins said.

“We need action that covers all pest species, all land tenures, and brings every stakeholder into one coordinated effort.”

Dawkins said the current fragmented approach, with responsibility divided by land tenure and function, is holding back progress.

“One example is that the Department of Conservation (DOC) is tasked to manage pests on public conservation land, but its statutory responsibilities don’t extend to private land.

“This leads to pests moving freely across public estate boundaries and imposing massive costs on farmers.”

Regional councils, Biosecurity New Zealand (MPI), the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and OSPRI (targeting TB vectors – mainly possums), all have roles.

“Responsibility is split across these multiple agencies, with no central leadership or

clear lines of accountability,” Dawkins said.

“The result is gaps, inefficiencies, and inconsistent coverage for which productive land pays the price.”

He said last year’s inaugural Federated Farmers National Pest Survey of more than 700 farmers left no room for doubt on the scale of the problem.

One finding was that, at a conservative estimate, farmers are spending almost $74 million on pest control each year and shouldering another $139 million a year in costs

from damaged fencing, pasture consumed and loss of trees.

“Our survey was a great start, but it’s past time that agencies worked together to build a national pest inventory for an accurate picture of where we’re at,” Dawkins said.

“There’s no consolidated national dataset to confirm or quantify just how fast pest animal populations are rising, and what regions are worst affected.

“There’s truth in the saying ‘you can’t manage what you don’t measure’.”

He said wilding pines and other weeds also need to be part of cross-agency campaigns, Dawkins says.

“Federated Farmers has consistently warned that we’re losing the battle on wilding pines, an ecological crisis is unfolding on that front alone.

“We need a pest animal and weed strategy, and cross-party support for long-term action.

“As time goes on, these issues only become larger and more expensive.”

Pest: Federated Farmers says farmers are constantly reporting bigger mobs of feral deer.

] with Andrew Wyllie ] Forsyth Barr

Calm returns to markets

Markets have settled after volatility in the first half of the year, supported by further central bank interest rate cuts, greater clarity over global trade policy, and generally positive company results. Investors who stayed the course through April’s market turbulence have been rewarded with a strong rebound.

This year has reinforced an important lesson: reacting to headlines can often do more harm than good. Volatility is part and parcel of investing, but over time markets tend to recover, and patience is generally rewarded. US Markets: Political noise versus fundamentals

At the end of July, the US announced new baseline tariffs on nearly all trading partners, excluding China and Mexico, which remain in negotiations.

Countries with a trade deficit to the US, including New Zealand, now face a 15% tariff on exports. Those countries with a trade surplus face a 10% tariff, most notably Australia and the UK.

In June, Congress passed the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill Act’ (OBBBA), a multi-trilliondollar package aimed at boosting household spending ahead of the 2026 midterms. While supportive in the short term, it will add significantly to US debt and future borrowing costs.

Despite the political noise, companies’ earnings have remained resilient—especially in technology sectors linked to artificial intelligence, data infrastructure, and semicon-

Looking at off-farm investments?

ductors. These industries have underpinned much of the recent market strength.

Tariffs are starting to put pressure on some companies, but many are finding ways to adapt by cutting costs or changing their supply chains. Looking ahead, solid company earnings and the chance of more US interest rate cuts are helping to support share markets.

However, share prices in some areas look high, which makes them more sensitive to changes in investor confidence or unexpected events. While the US economy is holding up well for now, risks remain. High valuations could leave markets more exposed if growth slows or a recession hits.

Reporting seasons mixed

New Zealand’s August reporting season showed ongoing challenges for many companies. Results were uneven, with continued revenue pressure, margin compression, and cyclical weakness.

On a brighter note, a number of firms reported that rising costs are starting to ease and that customer demand is beginning to stabilise.

When you are thinking about your investment options, talk to Forsyth Barr

To get personalised investment advice and portfolio management specific to your investing needs, talk to Investment Adviser Andrew Wyllie in confidence on (03) 365 4244 or email andrew.wyllie@forsythbarr.co.nz

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) responded to subdued economic conditions by cutting the cash rate in August and signalling further reductions ahead. Rates are expected to remain supportive for some time. Despite the challenging backdrop, the S&P/ NZX 50 Index gained +4.1% for the quarter.

There is increasing appeal in New Zealand’s defensive profile of high-quality, dividend-paying companies, particularly as interest rates continue to fall.

Australia’s latest reporting season told a

Mt Somers Excavation Ltd

RURAL MATTERS

similar story of mixed performance across industries. Nonetheless, the S&P/ASX 200 rose +7.0% for the quarter, supported by optimism around further rate cuts from the Reserve Bank of Australia as inflation remains contained and economic data softens.

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

this article was prepared as at 31 August 2025 and provides market commentary for the three-month period ending on that date. Andrew Wyllie is an Investment Adviser and Forsyth barr’s christchurch Manager. He can be contacted regarding portfolio management, fixed interest, or share investments on 0800 367 227 or andrew.wyllie@forsythbarr.co.nz. this column is general in nature, has been prepared in good faith based on information obtained from sources believed to be reliable and accurate, and should not be regarded as financial advice.

] with Laura Wood ] LGW Accounting

Should you register for GST or keep it simple?

It’s a question that comes up time and time again: should I register for GST? With the rate set at 15 percent, it’s a big part of the New Zealand tax system, and for rural businesses, the decision can have a real impact on the bottom line.

The rules themselves are fairly straightforward. If your turnover is more than $60,000 in a 12-month period, or you expect it will be, you have to register. That’s the law.

Turnover means all sales, not profit, and Inland Revenue will catch up with you if you cross the line and haven’t signed up.

For farmers, that $60,000 can creep up quickly. A decent mob of lambs sent off to the works, or a busy season of contracting, can easily push you over.

Where things get interesting is below the threshold. Here, the choice is yours, and that’s where it pays to weigh things up carefully. Registering can work in your favour if you’re spending big.

For example, if you’ve got your eye on a tractor, fencing gear, or a bulk load of fertiliser, there’s a sizeable chunk of GST sitting in those invoices.

Being registered means you can claim that money back. For many business owners, that’s a strong incentive.

On the flip side, GST registration does come with strings attached. Every invoice you

issue needs GST added, and if you’re selling direct to the public, whether that’s firewood, fencing for a lifestyle block, or a bach for rent, that can make you look more expensive, because private buyers can’t claim the tax back.

There’s also the paperwork. GST returns

are due monthly, two-monthly, or six-monthly, and while online filing has made life easier, it’s still another job to fit in.

Most operators choose the payments basis, which means you only return GST once you’ve actually been paid.

This is often the sensible option for farming businesses, where payment can lag behind delivery. No one wants to be handing over GST to Inland Revenue on money that hasn’t landed in the bank yet.

There’s also the matter of deregistration. If your turnover drops back under $60,000, you can apply to deregister. But it isn’t as simple as just walking away.

You may have to account for GST on livestock, machinery, or supplies you still hold,

which can come as a nasty surprise if you’re not prepared.

At the end of the day, the decision is about striking the right balance. If you’re investing heavily in plant and gear, or your customers are mainly other GST-registered businesses, registration can put money back in your pocket.

But if you’re running a smaller sideline or selling mostly to non-registered people, staying unregistered can keep life simpler and your pricing sharper. You can always register for GST later.

The important thing is to know where you sit and not let the decision sneak up on you.

As with many things, a bit of planning and keeping good records will save headaches down the track.

Words of wisdom for farm teams to stay in top form

A big focus for dairy farm teams is keeping cows in great condition, but to take good care of their cows, farmers also need to stay in top form themselves.

] Supplied by DairyNZ

To mark the recent Mental Health Awareness week, Taranaki dairy farmer Kane Brisco joined a DairyNZ podcast to share some timely advice on how farmers could take care of themselves.

Brisco said he went through some challenging times as a sharemilker but he turned things around and rekindled his passion for farming, and life, by making some simple changes to his lifestyle and approach to dealing with stress.

“It got to a point where I couldn’t see a light at the end of the tunnel. I lost my passion for farming, and got close to walking away from it.”

DairyNZ general manager farm performance Sarah Speight said Kane’s advice is particularly timely for dairy farm teams, as they’ve just come through the busiest period of the farming year – calving.

“Taking time out is particularly important for both farm owners and staff in the short gap between finishing calving and the start of mating,” Speight said.

“Finding out what your staff want to achieve, both personally and professionally, and considering how you can support them is also key to making your staff feel happy and

valued. For example, if they love sport can you support them by adjusting your roster so they can attend practice and games.”

Brisco’s tips to improve your condition score:

Get fit

Kane rebuilt his love for farming by starting boxing. Today, he has an on-farm gym and uses farm equipment like tractor tyres and fence posts as part of his fitness routine.

Staying fit helps him cope with the physical and mental challenges he faces day-today. “Whether its crossfit, running or pilates, you’ll find your passion,” he says.

Eat well

Farmers know that ensuring your cows are getting the right nutrition is crucial to achieving good body condition, and being highly productive. The same goes for you too!

Kane says eating well was the next key step he took after getting fit to help him stay well.

Take time out

“Time out with family to do things you enjoy, and getting off the farm, is really important to relax,” says Kane.

Stay fit: Dairy farmer Kane brisco uses on-farm equipment like fence posts as part of his workout routine to keep physically and mentally fit.

“Balancing commitments to the farm, family and yourself isn’t easy, and you have to keep working at it.”

Reframe how you see challenges

Kane says how we react and deal with challenges has a big impact on stress levels.

“Instead of getting angry when something doesn’t go the way I want it to, I think about what I want to achieve longer-term and then can break down how I want to get there.

“That means you switch from thinking negatively to problem solving and developing constructive ideas.”

It’s ok to say you’re not ok

Kane encourages farm owners and managers to be open about the pressures they feel.

“Sharing how you’re feeling encourages other people in the farm team to speak up when they’re feeling stressed.

“That helps everyone better address issues when they come up.”

For more tips on staying well, and to listen to Kane’s podcast, visit www.dairynz.co.nz/wellbeing

] with John Arts

Part 2

Co Enzyme Q10 for energy

Mitochondria are our cell engines that take the energy from food and change this into the energy our bodies need. At the end of the line is the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) to provide the energy that makes our bodies work.

Free radicals, especially nitrogen radicals like peroxynitrite, can damage delicate cell structures causing less energy to be made.

Some diseases can damage mitochondria. Studies show that chronic fatigue syndrome weakens mitochondria resulting in significantly less energy than in healthy people.

The result is always tiredness, but other symptoms are determined by the type of disease. For example, in MS mitochondrial changes occur leading to nerve myelin damage.

The first step to improve energy is to add Co Enzyme Q10. Be aware that most of the CoQ10 on the market is low-cost semi-synthetic material. I prefer high grade naturally fermented material despite its higher cost. There is no such thing a good, cheap CoQ10.

The most important component of nutritional therapy for fatigue and inflammatory problems is adding a range of mitochon-

drial nutrients and co factors. These include CoQ10, PQQ and other compounds such as Resveratrol, Grape seed extract, Acetyl l – carnitine, N acetylcysteine and, Alpha Lipoic Acid.

These help to increase energy output, support flagging energy processes and reduce free radical damage by actively targeting the free radicals that damage delicate energy systems.

We then add a full B vitamin complex as these are needed in most of the steps to make energy. A combination of a good diet and these beneficial supplements can make a real difference in life quality for those with low energy.

Most people feel a real difference within two months.

John Arts (Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on 0800 423559 or email john@abundant.co.nz. Join his newsletter at www.abundant.co.nz.

Farmer confidence continues to grow

Farmer confidence in the broader agricultural economy has inched higher and is now at its second highest reading at any stage across the last decade. That’s according to the latest Rabobank Rural Confidence Survey.

] Article supplied by Rabobank

Following net readings of +44% in the last two quarters, farmer confidence in the broader agricultural economy crept marginally higher to a net reading of +46%.

The latest net confidence reading has only been bettered once across the last 10 years (+54% in quarter two, 2017) and marked the fourth successive quarter of elevated farmer sentiment.

The latest survey, taken last month, found 51% of New Zealand farmers were now expecting the performance of the broader agri economy to improve in the year ahead (up from 48% in the previous quarter), while the number expecting conditions to worsen had also risen to 5% (from 4% previously).

The remaining 43% of farmers expected conditions to stay the same (44% previously).

Rabobank Chief Executive Officer Todd Charteris said it was fantastic to see strong farmer confidence extending into a fourth successive quarter.

“The cyclical nature of farming means it’s rare for farmer sentiment to stay elevated for

] by Solis Norton

such an extended period. And if we look back across the history of the survey, we have to go all the way back to the 2013/14 season for the last time we had four consecutive quarters where confidence was at such lofty heights.”

As was the case in 2013/14, Charteris said, a record milk price has been the catalyst for the latest extended spell of strong farmer sentiment.

“Since our last survey in June, we’ve seen Fonterra maintain its milk price forecast of $10.00/kgMS for the 2025/26 season, and we’ve also seen them raise their forecast for 2024/25 season to $10.15/kgMS,” he said.

“On top of this, the co-operative recently announced they’ve agreed to sell their consumer and associated businesses to Lactilis and, if approved, this could bring a tax-free capital return of $2.00 per share for their farmer shareholders.

“All this news has been warmly welcomed by sector participants and has helped keep dairy farmer sentiment high.”

Charteris said red meat sector confidence was also soaring off the back of an ongoing wave of high commodity pricing for beef and sheepmeat.

“Led by the US, global demand for New Zealand beef remains strong and this has flowed through to record-breaking prices for cattle over recent months,” he said.

“Farmgate lamb prices are also at historical highs and a combination of tight domestic supply and strong overseas demand is expected to ensure pricing stays elevated over the remainder of 2025.”

Unsurprisingly, the survey found farmers with an optimistic view on the broader agri economy cited ‘rising commodity prices’ (67%) as the main reason for their optimism.

‘Increasing demand’ (20%) and ‘falling interest rates’ (17%) were the next most-frequently cited reasons for positive sentiment.

Among the 5% of farmers expecting conditions in the agri economy to deteriorate, ‘government policy/ intervention’ (43%) ‘rising input prices’ (30%) and overseas markets/economies (29%) were the

major reasons given for pessimism.

The survey found farmers’ expectations for their own farm business operations were also marginally higher than last quarter, with the net reading rising to +42% (from +40%).

The readings for dairy farmers and sheep/ beef farmers rose to +54% and +53% respectively, however growers were less optimistic than three months ago, falling to a net reading of +1% from +20% three months ago.

Charteris said farmers who participated in the most recent survey were asked to rate their level of concern on a scale from 1-10 about the recent increase in the US tariff rate on New Zealand goods from 10% to 15%.

“While we are yet to see any major drop off in US demand for New Zealand’s agricultural products, the recent increase to a 15% tariff does put us at a competitive disadvantage to countries like Australia which remained at a tariff of 10%.”

“The level of farmer concern over this tariff increase was variable with farmer responses at either end of the scale and the average score sitting at 5.5 out of 10.”

Gas crisis fuels NZ energy literacy

Natural gas is a hot topic. Estimates of remaining reserves continue to shrink, and reality chews up optimism as efforts to find more end empty handed.

The implications for agriculture in particular must be conveyed to farmers and to the broader supply chains in which they sit.

Some of those implications are easy to anticipate, others will come as a surprise. We’re not overly fond of surprises. Telling farmers gas is running out will not help. Nor will telling them to look out.

There’s more out there, for sure, but it seems increasingly like needle in a haystack stuff. Without clear, consistent, political support to entice the heavy hitters in exploration back to help we’re in a tight spot.

Hundreds of industrial gas users are finding prices have doubled, or more, in recent years and now in some cases suppliers are refusing to guarantee supply full stop. The implications are hard to exaggerate.

What’s needed is ‘energy literacy’. A term born and raised by geeks and boffins, deep in the shadows and running the noble gauntlet between expert and crazy person.

In essence, it is a broad understanding of the nature, benefits, physics, and limits of the energy sources that keep our economy growing.

A rather marvellous curiosity of energy literacy is that, to farmers, it bears a striking similarity to a feed budget. The rather dis-

appointing counterpoint is most New Zealanders live in cities and their idea of a feed budget has no more nuance than a grocery list.

Energy literacy will make a few things plain to NZ Ag. Like why the price of urea is doing what it will do. Like why Fonterra’s cost for milk processing is doing what it will do. Like why the price of inputs for farms and wider supply chains will continue to increase with the distinctive lurch seen in recent years.

Energy literacy goes beyond the price of butter. It will show the price of food in a whole new light. More importantly, it will get people thinking about what to do, in a far more effective way than they are at present.

A reactionary approach to energy constraints will be pain laced disruption. We see it now. Those industrial gas users are dialling

back production, laying off staff, and looking to head off-shore.

A proactive approach can be exciting and positive. The team here at Whirika Consulting, including myself, are embedded in helping gas users adapt, notably by shifting to biomass (eg locally sourced woodchips).

It’s exciting because these users are dodging the gas crunch. It’s exciting because the work also boosts the fledgling biomass trade toward becoming a full-blown industry. There is relief, too, in knowing you are part of the solution, rather than part of the problem.

Perhaps the best bit is that energy literacy will pave the way for chopping up all those trees stuck on good farmland in recent years and using the low-grade parts of them as woodchips to process meat and milk. Energy literacy, here we come.

Collecting

] with rose edkins ] Aqualinc

It’s not just about compliance, it’s about making your irrigation system work better for you.

Irrigation data can be used to demonstrate that you’re managing water responsibly and complying with your consent conditions, which is a big tick for your Farm Environment Plan (FEP) Audit, and will be an important step to achieving an A grade.

This data can make future consent renewals a whole lot smoother – including groundwater and surface water takes consents, and land use consents. Here are three key datasets that make a big difference:

1. Water meter data

Water meters track how much water you’re using. That’s important for staying within your consent limits and making sure you’re spreading your water use out smartly over the season.

But water meter data alone doesn’t show if you’re using water efficiently—it’s just one piece of the puzzle.

2. Soil moisture monitoring

Soil moisture monitoring helps you decide when to irrigate and how much to apply, con-

sidering your soil type, crop type, and how much water your soil can hold.

The goal is to avoid stressing your plants while also avoiding overwatering, which can lead to nutrient loss and wasted water. It’s important to have enough sensors in the right spots so they best represent the different soils on your farm to ensure the optimal management of your irrigation systems.

As soil moisture probes provide a point measurement, confirming uniform water application through irrigation system performance checks is essential.

3. Regular irrigation system performance checks

These checks make sure your system is doing what it’s supposed to, applying the right amount of water and applying it evenly. You can do a full irrigation evaluation or a simpler bucket test, depending on time since last evaluation.

These tests help catch problems early, like ageing gear or reduced performance, which can save you time and money in the long run. If something’s not right, you’ll get advice on what to fix. Sometimes it’s a quick job, other times it might need a deeper look at your setup.

Good data is accurate, complete and timely, providing a true picture of water use, soil

Why good data matters

management decisions is essential for

well, your crops are getting what they need,

applying it evenly.

moisture, crop needs and system operation.

They all inform irrigation management decisions and ensures that your irrigation system is operating efficiently optimising crop yield and minimising nutrient losses and wastage, while meeting consent and FEP requirements.

Bad data, in contrast, whether it’s from

poorly placed soil moisture sensors, faulty water meters, incomplete data, or ineffective system checks – can lead to overwatering, stressed crops, wasted water, and even trouble during your FEP audit or consent renewal.

In short, good data saves you time, money, and hassle. Bad data can do the opposite.

Check it: regular irrigation system performance checks, from a full irrigation evaluation to a simpler bucket test, make sure your system is doing what it’s supposed to, applying the right amount of water and

Optimise yield and quality while saving on water, power, fertilisers and labour

Many farmers have invested heavily in soil moisture sensors and associated equipment but are not realising any significant benefit from this investment.

]Article supplied by Aqualinc

Aqualinc has a wealth of knowledge in all areas of irrigation, from system design to irrigation management, and this breadth of knowledge enables our customers to maximise their return on their existing investment in irrigation hardware and monitoring systems or to identify the need for new or more systems or system components.

The key objective of a soil moisture measurement system is to provide the Grower with a finite amount of accurate and representative data that helps them optimise yield and quality whilst reducing operating costs.

To achieve this the following has to be considered:

• What type of sensor is most suitable for the application?

Aqualinc is sensor agnostic and hence can select the best sensor for the application as we are not aligned or tied to a particular sensor and our system can accommodate a wide range of sensors.

• How many sensors are needed?

• Where should the sensors be located?

• How should the sensors be installed?

To answer the above site research (e.g.

to determine topographical information, soil type and characteristics) and a site visit with the farmer is required so the most appropriate solution and sites are selected.

The next two important steps are:

• To ensure the sensors are installed correctly

• To ensure the farmer knows how to interpret the data provided by the sensors

Aqualinc can also provide a full irrigation management service if required. Our recent partnership with SCADAfarm enables our users to have access to concise and easy to interpret soil moisture data on their phone or PC so they can optimise their irrigation management.

Many farmers with soil moisture sensors installed are provided with a nice graph, but without the correct setup and advice this is like driving a car with a faulty speedo – you don’t really know what you’re doing.

To irrigate effectively you need to know the soil moisture (preferably in mm) and what range of soil moisture will provide optimum growth and quality.

An irrigation strategy based on robust soil moisture measurements can provide sig-

nificant environmental benefits, especially around the reduction of leaching of nutrients into ground water and water ways.

Aqualinc engineers have carried out significant research in this area and this expertise is available to our customers and is embedded into our systems.

Aqualinc’s Telemetry Solutions utilise the latest technology and are based on the 4G network which provides significant longevity over the many 2G and 3G systems currently in use.

These systems can be applied to soil moisture and many other applications includ-

Complete package: Aqualinc has a wealth of knowledge in all areas of irrigation, from system design to irrigation management.

ing flow metering, pond level, bore depth, weather stations etc.

Aqualinc’s telemetry solutions can also be applied to existing sensors so farmers can benefit from their ‘below-ground’ investment that may no longer be working due to obsolete or aging telemetry.

Soil Moisture Sensors compatible with the Aqualinc system include: Aquaflex, Decagon, Meter Group and EnviroPro.

Aqualinc have many resources to assist Irrigators with their Irrigation Management, please feel free to contact us at any time for advice or information.

Tips for efficient summer water use

Over summer many farmers will be looking for ways to be more efficient with their irrigation this season. Efficient irrigation significantly reduces the risk of nutrient leaching and saves money and water.

] Article supplied

by

] Environment Canterbury

Watch your triggers

Use soil moisture and temperature triggers to start the irrigation for the season.

For soil temperature, 11degC is recommended. Note that the soil moisture trigger of around 50-60% of Profile Available Water (PAW) needs to be triggered as well.

Irrigating when soil temperatures are too low will depress plant growth, as irrigation water will further cool the soil.

Maintain your system

Plan your irrigation to start with a spring check of performance and equipment. Well performing systems save money and time and are more water efficient.

Efficient irrigation delivers water at a rate and spread that reduces drainage and evaporation losses. Check your irrigator and fix problems before doing a ‘bucket test’.

The Check-It app is easy to use and can be downloaded from app stores. It will test how much water you are applying and how evenly it is being applied and distributed.

If you do not have a commissioning test for your irrigator, get a professional to carry

out a capability assessment. Regular daily, monthly and seasonal checks are essential.

Assess your soil moisture

Knowing your soils and how much water the soil type can hold is critical to irrigation scheduling.

Good soil moisture monitoring systems (tapes, probes) installed, calibrated and used correctly are the most efficient way to measure soil moisture.

If you do not have soil moisture monitoring, soil water budgets are a low-cost method used to schedule irrigation. They use inputs of rainfall, evaporation, weather forecasts and plant demand to produce a daily water budget.

Aim to keep the soil moisture between the plants’ stress point (around 50% PAW) and the field capacity.

Allow a gap of around 10 – 20% below field capacity to reduce drainage risk from rainfall after irrigation.

On schedule: Knowing your soils and how much water the soil type can hold is critical to irrigation scheduling.

by ecan

Keep good records

Good records, kept over time, help you decide on daily, monthly and seasonal maintenance requirements.

Record keeping also helps ensure all staff are aware of trends in the past and help inform decision-making going forward.

Need more help? You can get in touch environment canterbury’s Land Management Advisors for free advice on 0800 324 636. Irrigation NZ also has some great resources at www.irrigationnz.co.nz

Photo

Taking action on rising nitrate levels

Most of our region’s drinking water comes from groundwater, so when monitoring shows increasing nitrate concentrations in groundwater there is understandable community concern.

]Article supplied by ECan

Nitrogen is an essential element required by plants for growth and is added to land as synthetic fertiliser and animal effluent (both from grazing and applied effluent) to promote the growth of pasture and crops.

When there is too much for the growing pasture and crops it can enter streams and lakes. Excess nitrogen in the soil not taken up by plants can leach through into groundwater.

The increase in nitrate concentrations over time has stemmed from more intensive landuse. Sources include: animal urine patches leaching into the ground from pasture grazing and winter grazing; synthetic fertilisers leaching into the ground; leaky or inefficient onsite wastewater disposal systems; animal effluent applied to land as fertiliser leaching into the ground; industrial use or disposal of animal waste and chemicals.

What we’re doing to address the issue

Regional councils have certain roles and powers under legislation, as well as the ability to work with mana whenua, industry and stakeholders, to act within our mandate to mitigate nitrate losses to the environment.

This means there are actions that Environment Canterbury, as the regional coun-

cil, is doing to address this issue. But it is not something we can solve on our own, and many other entities are also involved.

The actions we are undertaking include:

Supporting farmers: Canterbury farmers are making progress in reducing nutrient and other contaminant losses within their farming systems. Our land management advisors are supporting them with this work, raising awareness and encouraging best practices, including nitrogen use efficiency, winter grazing and critical source area management.

Protecting and promoting wetlands: We’re focused on identifying and protecting Canterbury’s remaining wetlands by providing better information and incentives for landowners to protect existing wetlands, as well as making it easier for landowners to create constructed wetland areas that can act as filters to remove nitrate and other contaminants from freshwater.

Keeping it local: We’re working with and funding communities at a catchment level to empower them to take the initiative and innovate for water quality solutions.

Reviewing our planning framework: We’re undertaking a review of our current plans to get a clearer picture of the state of our environment and to measure the effectiveness of our current policies. However, we cannot currently propose new changes to our plan-

ning framework due to central government’s changes to the resource management system.

Improving resource consents: We’re strengthening new resource consent conditions and clarifying our expectations on how consent holders can demonstrate compliance with these conditions.

Improving compliance work: We’re prioritising compliance monitoring for the highest-risk activities, as well as activities in community drinking water protection zones and other areas with especially sensitive environments or already degraded water quality.

Taking compliance action: We’re ensuring we take appropriate compliance action when the right thing isn’t done – from education and on-farm support through to enforcement when needed.

Keeping your drinking water safe

If you’re on a private drinking water supply, make sure your water is tested and treated as necessary.

If you’re a farmer, talk to our Water and Land team about how you can minimise nutrient loss.

IRRIGATE

BY LINDSAY

Life as an environmental advisor

At IrrigationNZ, we’re committed to highlighting the environmental efforts of our members, the initiatives making a real difference for our waterways, just too often going untold.

] Article supplied by IrrigationNZ

This story introduces Georgina Woods, Environmental Advisor at Waimakariri Irrigation Ltd (WIL), whose passion for the land and strong science background are already helping to shape positive outcomes.

Though new to the role, Georgina brings both knowledge and hands-on experience to her work. Growing up on a sheep and beef farm, she spent summers working on a mixed arable property while completing her Environmental Science degree at Lincoln University, where she graduated with Honours.

Her career began with Enviro Collective in Ashburton, where she gained invaluable insight into irrigation through contracts with three schemes: Barrhill Chertsey Irrigation, Acton Farmers, and Rangitata South.

That blend of academic study and on-thejob learning opened the door to her current role at WIL.

“The role at WIL covered so much of what I’d already been learning and doing, only it was much closer to home. It just felt like the perfect fit,” Georgina said.

What she loves most is the variety and purpose the role brings.

“No two days are the same. I enjoy the relationships, the people, and of course giving back to the environment. I grew up here and I want the landscape around me to continue to thrive for years to come.”

For Georgina, variety is the constant. Her day could involve anything from bucket testing and farm environmental updates, to distributing native plants, attending industry events, or crunching data for reports.

Depending on the season and what she needs to respond to, priorities shift – the end goal though is always the same: maintaining compliance, protecting water quality, and ensuring the long-term viability of farming.

That means supporting farmers with audits, guiding them through environmental requirements, and being a trusted source of knowledge.

“We’re here to hold the knowledge and support our shareholders. Whether it’s questions about funding, regulation, or best practice, we want them to feel confident reaching out. It means I’m upskilling all the time too.”

She also works closely with consultants and her wider team on aspects like groundwater and surface water monitoring – the “boots on the ground” side of environmental management.

Georgina sees the coming decades as bringing key opportunities for irrigation in Canterbury, with many consents due for renewal around 2030 and climate change driv-

ing people to look at new options for how they work their land.

She sees her role as helping to prepare farmers and the wider community for those shifts: maintaining compliance today while looking towards tomorrow.

Georgina always knew she wanted a career on the land. Her early exposure to irrigation during summer work sparked her curiosity, which grew at Lincoln.

“Going to Lincoln really opened my eyes. There are so many pathways into environmental work and irrigation. Irrigation, when used correctly, is a lifeline, it’s transformed mid-Canterbury and adds so much value to the industry.”

She also credits mentors and employers who gave her early opportunities.

“My first role came down to people taking a chance on me. That’s what allowed me to build a pathway in irrigation as well as environmental management. I’m really grateful for that.”

For Georgina, it all comes back to people and place. Her story is one of bridging farming knowledge with environmental science and using that to protect the land and water that shaped her.

“I love what I do. It’s not just about meeting conditions on paper, it’s about relationships, resilience, and ensuring that future generations inherit an environment that’s thriving.”

Passion: environmental Advisor at Waimakariri Irrigation Ltd Georgina Woods is passionate about her work.

Protecting and enhancing the land

Drought is synonymous with North Canterbury summers, when the region frequently records New Zealand’s highest temperatures, and historically, these dry summers and frequent droughts have made farming difficult.

The introduction of irrigation in the early 1980s transformed farming in the Amuri Basin, making businesses more resilient, strengthening the community, and cementing the district as one of the most productive in the country.

Irrigation schemes now play a key role in collectively helping farmers to use water more efficiently. Amuri Irrigation Company (AIC) delivers water to 130 farmers from two rivers via an open race and 130km modern pipe network and knows healthy land and water is essential for the survival of farming businesses.

They’re supporting their farmers to make better decisions via ‘Amuri Basin Future Farming’, a $2.5 million project with support from Ministry of Primary Industries’ (MPI) Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund, Environment Canterbury and DairyNZ.

This four-year partnership programme is geared to accelerate irrigated farmers towards a future of sustainable farming and build on AIC’s existing strategy to farm beyond regulatory minimums.

The project has a combined focus on the environment (freshwater, climate, and biodiversity), farm profitability and community resilience and is designed to be farmer-led, to proactively tackle their shared challenges.

This project is being run in parallel with AIC’s other infrastructure projects, bringing water storage and hydropower generation to the area.

Together these projects give farmers the confidence to invest in their businesses and the knowledge to be resilient in the face of climate change.

The core approach of the project involves the formation of small, farmer-led groups dedicated to enhancing farming practices within their catchment areas.

There are 13 groups across the Amuri Ba-

sin, each with a Farmer Lead who assists AIC’s facilitator to drive group meetings, get the most relevant information out of the technical experts and ensure the group is well represented at wider catchment meetings.

The catchment groups enable farmers to set goals that address the specific challenges faced by the group members. The technical support provided gives them confidence that their decisions are backed by sound science.

Those decisions form the basis of a group action plan, which while focusing on the im-

Networking: the Amuri Irrigation company delivers water to 130 North canterbury farmers from two rivers via an open race and 130km modern pipe network.

provements farmers need to make for our environment, also consider farm profitability and resilience.

“Our understanding of farming’s impact on the environment has evolved, and we’re using that knowledge to help our farmers plan for the future,” says Mike Hennessy, AIC’s Environmental Projects lead.

“The collective approach results in greater long-term buy-in compared to farmers working in isolation. Everyone benefits from fresh ideas and support to embrace change and achieve their goals.

Continuous improvement a repeating theme for irrigation

Water is as high on New Zealand’s agenda now as it has been for decades, and for good reason.

] by Stephen McNally

] IrrigationNZ Principal

] Technical Advisor

The Government sent a strong message at the Mystery Creek National Fieldays earlier this year that water storage is a national priority and must be taken seriously.

That recognition is welcome, particularly given glaring facts: we have more frequent dry spells, shifting weather patterns and we have an exponential need to support food and fibre production amidst a growing global population.

Water storage is just one part of the equation though. As work gathers pace on Resource Management reforms, it’s a good reminder that strong and resilient communities will require a joined-up focus.

If we focus on just one component, we will only get us so far. Our reality is that communities will strengthen not just with good infrastructure, they’ll strengthen through understanding and managing our water better too, both within local catchments and onfarm.

Without a connected approach, one grounded in good data, sound decision-mak-

ing, and practical on-farm practices, we risk building infrastructure that isn’t fit for purpose. Because different communities have different needs and we have to lean in to understand localised issues, so we get good results nationwide.

That’s why we need to keep the conversation broad, moving from simply storing more water to also using the water we have, to our best ability. And that means addressing water from all angles: on-farm, in orchards, and with every irrigator.

In the broader public conversation, we can’t ignore the questions raised about farming’s impact on waterways, landscapes, and communities.

A connected catchment approach is fundamental to how our farmers and their neighbours view their shared responsibilities and shapes the social fabric of the way we do things.

That’s how farming communities have always operated. Now, with increased transparency, which means recognising those external concerns, and addressing them.

Water storage projects, for example, must be part of a wider framework that enhances environmental outcomes, supports

biodiversity, and respects community values.

The good news is that it can be done –there are excellent examples both here and overseas where bipartisan support has been achieved. Well-designed water systems can deliver environmental, cultural, and social benefits alongside economic ones – but on-

ly if they’re backed by data, trust, and shared understanding.

That’s the kind of balanced decision-making we’re advocating for through the Resource Management reform process – and the irrigation sector has a vital role to play in leading that approach.

Meeting up: Irrigation NZ chief executive Karen Williams spent a couple of days engaging with people at Fieldays in Mystery creek, including connecting with one of the Irrigation NZ’s member companies WaterForce.

New solar farm in North Canterbury

Summer peak energy loads due to irrigation makes Canterbury an ideal part of the country for solar farms according to the company which will build a new solar farm for electricity supplier MainPower.

] by Kent caddick

Work will begin on the construction of a new solar farm at Thongcaster Road in the Waimakariri district this month.

The Mainpower Board approved construction and received the required consents for a 7.3MW solar farm on its 10-hectare site on Thongcaster Road between Burnt Hill and Eyrewell Forest.

When complete, the site will produce enough energy to power approximately 1,250 local homes via MainPower’s distribution network.

MainPower Acting chief executive Damien Whiffen said Lightyears Solar Ltd has been awarded the Engineering, Procurement and Construction contract.

“Lightyears is passionate about building high-quality, community-scale solar farms to generate low-cost, renewable electricity,” Whiffen said.

“The company’s belief that these are vital to address energy poverty in our country, as a driver for economic growth, and to help mitigate climate change aligns with MainPower’s drive to decarbonise our place and

prepare for the new energy future.”

Lightyears’ director and co-founder Matt Shanks said they are pleased to be working with MainPower to bring more solar power to North Canterbury.

“This will be the fourth solar farm we are

Powering up: MainPower

Acting chief executive Damien Whiffen says the thongcaster road Solar Farm is a key investment for MainPower and its network.

as one of the few places in New Zealand that have a summer peak energy load due to irrigation.”

Whiffen said MainPower has been consulting with the local community since the beginning of the project.

“We sincerely appreciate the support and input from our immediate neighbours during the planning stages of this project. While the project will see an increase in traffic movements in the area for a short time, the longer-term benefits of the solar farm for the community and the network are significant.”

Work will begin with the planting of a perimeter screen and delivery of materials to site and piling to set the frames for the photovoltaic panels. Construction of the solar farm is expected to be completed by the end of May 2026.

building in Canterbury, and we are pleased this project will be contributing to the energy needs of the community, and also providing economic benefit to the community via MainPower Trust,” Shanks said.

“Solar farms are well suited to Canterbury

“MainPower is committed to investing in renewable energy to assist the local community, reduce reliance on fossil fuels and help New Zealand meet its carbon reduction goals.

The Thongcaster Road Solar Farm is a key investment for MainPower and our network,” Whiffen said.

Four Seasons Realty

Seasons Realty

PASTURE’S

PERFECT PARTNER

Don’t leave next season’s feed to chance

After a favourable summer across much of the South Island, most farmers went into the past winter with good pasture cover levels and solid supplementary feed reserves. Now those reserves are getting eaten into, and the focus must turn towards ensuring there is enough feed for the season ahead, Pioneer Farm Systems Manager Matt Dalley says.

] Supplied by Pioneer brand products

Most Canterbury farmers have the option to grow maize silage on farm or to buy it in.

“Whichever option you choose, now is the time to secure your feed supply” says Matt.

“Farmers who leave it too late may find themselves paying more for maize silage on the spot market or missing out altogether”.

“In a high payout season, the costliest mistake you can make is to run out of feed” says Matt. “It’s much easier to plan ahead than to be left scrambling for feed when the weather doesn’t play ball”.

Why maize silage stacks up

Maize silage consistently delivers more homegrown feed per hectare than other forage crops and has become one of the most cost-effective ways to put milk in the vat. With demand forecast to rise again this season, the benefits stack up:

1. Reproduction: Consistent energy intake helps reduce condition score loss, reducing the time for cows to start cycling and improving conception rates.

2. Body condition: High-energy, moderate-protein feed makes it easier to lift cow condition before dry-off without impacting production.

3. Winter crop transition: Having a good buffer of maize silage for winter can help farmers make transitioning on and off winter crops easier.

4. Pasture renovation: Maize is a simple way to renovate tired paddocks, returning them to strong pasture after harvest.

5. Feed buffer: Having maize silage on hand provides insurance against unfavourable weather conditions, which can slow pasture growth.

6. Transition cows: The low dietary cation-anion balance (DCAD) of maize silage makes it an ideal base to transition cow rations, helping to reduce the incidence of milk fever post calving.

‘In a high payout season, the costliest mistake you can make is to run out of feed.

Another big advantage of maize silage is flexibility. If a good summer means you don’t need it straight away, maize silage keeps well in the stack until you do. Plan early and stress less

“Plan for a pinch” says Matt. “We don’t know what the season will throw at us; however, the flexibility of having a stack of maize silage on hand can help keep production steady”.

Now is the time to talk with your contractor, contract grower, or Pioneer Area Manager about locking in your maize silage supply for next season. It’s better to have it ready and not need it than need it and not have it.

‘We don’t know what the season will throw at us; however, the flexibility of having a stack of maize silage on hand can help keep production steady.

Matt Dalley says the focus is now on securing enough feed for the upcoming season.

Maize is a simple way to renovate tired paddocks, returning them to strong pasture after harvest.

Having a buffer of maize silage on hand means you can feed your cows regardless of how well the pasture grows.

& TRAINING

Mating: A hidden contributor to lameness?

Mating is a critical stage in the dairy production cycle, and it is also a period when the incidence of lameness tends to rise. The reasons for this are often debated.

] Supplied by Veehof Dairy Services Ltd

Prevent lameness protect your profits

Practical hoof care training to keep your herd healthy and productive

Fred Hoekstra, Dairy Hoof Care Institute’s qualified instructor, empowers farmers and industry professionals with vital insights, knowledge, and step-by-step techniques to treat and prevent lameness. Students can also gain industry-recognised qualifications.

One day workshops and courses:

• Lameness Management Workshop - 1 day

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• Veterinarian Hoof Care Workshop - 1 day

Raising the standard of hoof care.

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Nationwide training workshops and course details visit dhi.ac.nz

A common explanation is that increased riding activity during oestrus places additional weight on the hooves of the cow being mounted, potentially causing trauma, particularly if she is standing on a stone.

While this theory is logical at first glance, it does not align with observed patterns. Riding behaviour starts soon after calving, well before the mating season, whereas the marked rise in lameness is most consistently linked to the mating period. This suggests that riding is unlikely to be the primary cause.

An alternative explanation is the heightened stress cows experience during the artificial insemination (AI) process. Stress is widely recognised as a key factor influencing animal health and welfare.

Elevated cortisol levels, released in response to stress, have systemic effects including reduced immune function, impaired tissue repair, and increased susceptibility to disease. In the context of lameness, stress can exacerbate the development and progression of claw lesions.

During mating, cows are subjected to management practices that differ significantly from their normal routine:

• Tail painting and close observation from the platform.

• Heat detection procedures such as tail paint checks and activity monitoring.

• Reproductive interventions including Metrichecking and CIDR insertion.

Stressed: Mating is a critical stage in the dairy production cycle, and it is also a period when the incidence of lameness tends to rise.

• Removal from the herd for drafting and insemination.

Each of these activities represents a disruption to normal patterns, and dairy cattle are highly sensitive to routine changes. Research has shown that even minor disturbances can elevate stress markers and alter behaviour.

Another important consideration is time allocation. Studies indicate that dairy cows require a minimum of 10-12 hours of lying time per day for optimal health and productivity. Prolonged standing on concrete surfaces increases the risk of claw horn lesions. During mating, milking times are often extended due to drafting and handling, reducing lying time and contributing further to lameness risk.

While diet, heat stress, and environmental conditions all play a role in lameness, it is increasingly clear that behavioural stress during mating is an under-recognised contributor. By minimising disruptions and maintaining consistent routines wherever possible, farmers can reduce stress loads and, in turn, lower the risk of lameness.

Key takeaway

The spike in lameness at mating is unlikely to be explained by mounting behaviour alone. Instead, the combination of handling-related stress, disrupted routines, and reduced lying time provides a more robust explanation.

Managing stress at this stage is therefore not only a welfare consideration but also a practical strategy for reducing lameness incidence.

For more information or for training opportunities contact the Dairy Hoofcare Institute, dhi.ac.nz

Soaring ambitions, grounded excellence : Learn to fly with Garden City Helicopters

Nestled at Christchurch’s Yaldhurst base, just minutes from Christchurch International Airport, GCH Aviation’s Garden City Helicopters Flight Training offers aspiring aviators a launchpad into the exhilarating world of helicopter flight.

]Advertorial supplied by GCH Aviation Here, imaginations take flight and dreams become tangible realities under the guidance of consummate professionals.

A legacy of safety and experience

GCH Aviation stands proudly as New Zealand’s leading private aviation group, with a sterling 40-year-plus track record of operational excellence, unwavering safety standards, and diverse aviation services, from scenic flights and rescue operations to commercial charters and flight training.

This storied heritage provides a solid foundation for trainee pilots to thrive.

Learning from real-world experts

When you train with Garden City Helicopters, you’re not just learning from instructors, you’re learning from commercial pilots deeply embedded in the helicopter operations they teach.

Many navigate real rescue missions for services like the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter, and the ROA Rescue Helicopter in Greymouth. Their firsthand experience enriches every lesson with real-world expertise. Tailored training to suit your life

From total beginners to seasoned flyers, GCH welcomes all with open arms. Training is delivered on a flexible, “as-required” basis, allowing you to learn at your own pace – whether you’re flying most days to convert your commercial licence within a year

or spreading it across two to three years.

The option for “pay-as-you-go” training caters to varied budgets, ensuring dedicated, personalized instruction rather than mass-produced, cookie-cutter courses.

An unrivalled training environment

Based at Christchurch International Airport, students train amid busy controlled airspace, offering invaluable exposure to realworld flight challenges.

The stunning Canterbury Low-Flying Zones and the Southern Alps provide dynamic terrain for advancing skills. GCH Aviation’s purpose-built 9,000 m² facility boasts dedicated classrooms, rich learning resources, and ready access to aircraft and instructors.

GcH Aviation’s Garden city Helicopters Flight training offers aspiring aviators a launchpad into the exhilarating world of helicopter flight.

Well-maintained fleet and engineering excellence

Safety begins on the ground with meticulously maintained helicopters. As a Part 145 maintenance provider, GCH ensures its fleet which includes models such as the Cabri G2, R22, R44, AS350, EC120, EC130, and BK117 is always missionready.

YouFly trial flights: A taste of control

For those just testing the waters, or should

I say the skies, GCH offers YouFly Trial Flights in Christchurch and Kaikoura. These 30 – or 60-minute adventures put the controls in your hands guided the entire time by a qualified instructor through takeoff, hover, flight, and landing. It’s an incomparable preview of the pilot’s seat.

Why choose Garden City Helicopters flight training?

• A heritage of trust and safety across four decades

• Instructors who practice what they teach—real commercial and rescue pilots

• Fully customizable training path and payment options

• Exposure to authentic air traffic scenarios and varied terrain

• Top-tier infrastructure and engineering support

• A thrilling trial flight to ignite your passion for flying

In short, Garden City Helicopters Flight Training, under the umbrella of GCH Aviation, offers more than just lessons, it delivers an aviation lifestyle.

Here, you’re not merely earning rotarywing hours; you’re joining a community that values safety, capability, and the kind of hands-on experience that turns students into skilled, confident pilots.

Whether you’re fuelled by ambition, curiosity, or adventure, this training ground equips you to pilot your dreams skyward.

Field trips to the Air New Zealand Engineering School, Christchurch Control Tower, and Radar Centre further enrich the aviation journey.

] with rob cope-Williams

Farmers are too busy to notice nature

At my age I am allowed to look back and compare the “good old days” and our modern times. Something that has crept up on me is that modern farmers are too busy to enjoy nature.

Before you turn the page, think back a couple of generations and picture the homestead settings, the trees and gardens and the areas where family and staff could meet, share food and relax together.

I was part of that generation, so I know.

Now look at the recent houses, not homes, houses, that are dumped in the middle of a paddock with the only view of the fence within a couple of metres.

Even worse, a wall of dirt for the rotary irrigator climbs over as it irrigates the pasture and the dwelling. We have got to the stage that it isn’t just the animals that are pushed to the very edge in the name of production, but so are the workers.

People are well aware of the backlash with respect to battery hens which culminated in a law change banning their treatment, but are our dairy cows now in a similar category?

I personally am a great fan of covered housing for dairy cows and the cut and carry system.

In the defence of the system, I point out that the stock has fresh water and fresh feed on hand, they are dry and warm when it is cold, and cool and in the shade on hot days

Farmers open gates for the stock to wander out if they so wish, and most don’t.

They have scratch brushes to do a similar thing to a massage, and plenty of room to move around.

I am yet to see a shed where the stock isn’t sitting down contently and there is never a sound apart from the feed sweeping machine that keeps the feed up to the cattle.

However, all grass systems do lead to very intensive feeding with pressure on pastures. It seems every blade of grass is vital to the financial bottom line and so are those who are on the property as part of the work force.

Cattle aren’t fussed about flowers and shrubs, and they can relax anywhere because they accept that as their lot, but I do think that staff who work very hard and long hours do deserve an area to relax in.

They are not battery hens, and I am very sure they would enjoy the wonders of nature.

Just a thought as I look out my window at trees, shrubs, vegetables and herbs, and realise how fortunate I am to have nature on my doorstep.

Nothing responds better than something that feels appreciated.

What’s even better than beer?

Slugs have a great sense of smell, and jars containing beer are an old school gardeners’ trick for luring the molluscs to their end. But there’s a better way, which doesn’t require raiding the fridge, is more practical for farmers and growers, and is gentle on the environment.

] Advertorial supplied by ] UPL New Zealand

Ironmax Pro from sustainable agricultural solutions provider, UPL NZ Ltd, is irresistible to slugs, thanks to its breakthrough Colzactive technology. Colzactive is made up of specially selected oil seed rape extracts.

Pieter Van Der Westhuizen, UPL NZ Regional Manager Upper North Island, says 20 different plant species were evaluated and 50 potential molecules for their attractiveness to slugs identified.

“Ultimately just two molecules from oil seed rape were selected for their highly attractive and palatable characteristics from the slugs’ perspectives. These are the basis of the Colzactive technology, which enhances the Ironmax Pro bait taste and, importantly, the speed at which the baits work compared to others.”

Cage trials (2020) showed that slugs actively preferred feeding on Ironmax Pro to feeding on plant seedlings. Slugs will feed till they have ingested a lethal dose of bait, then go underground to die.

A dry spring looks to be on the cards for Central Canterbury but, particularly with irri-

gation, and even heavy dews, slugs will still be on the move, come planting.

Pieter warns, even as seedlings break the surface, slugs will be aware of them.

“By the time slugs are feeding on emerging seedlings, it’s already too late. Seedlings damaged by slugs usually won’t recover. There needs to be bait already on the ground.

“The goal is to protect the crop. Once slug feeding damage has stopped, that’s been achieved. We don’t have to see dead slugs to know we were successful.”

At the same time, monitoring slugs is a vital part of a successful crop protection programme.

“A damp sack will do the trick. Just check under it in the mornings. If there’s one slug – there could be a much wider problem.”

Ironmax Pro contains the optimized active ingredient 24.2 g/kg ferric phosphate anhydrous, referred to as IPMax. Iron (ferric) phosphate is a natural component of soil. In Ironmax Pro, it works as a stomach poison on slugs and is fatal once ingested. Feeding stops almost immediately.

Well established crops indicate good slug control at germination.

Ironmax Pro is manufactured using the finest durum wheat and a unique slow drying process. This makes baits very rain fast (up to 60 mm of rain) unlike some baits which dissolve in the wet.

The bait also has a consistent, wider spreadabiltiy with a recommended application rate of 5 to 7 kg/ha.

With 60,000 baits per kilogram, Pieter says the product has excellent ballistic properties. “The uniform pellet size and innovative Ironmax Pro manufacturing process mean bait can be spread at widths of up to 24m.”

For more information on Ironmax Pro, talk to your local technical merchant or contact Pieter Van Der Westhuizen, UPL NZ regional Manager Upper North Island, at 021 392 740.

Scherer wins Young Grower national title

Canterbury regional champion Steven Rink has finished runner up in this year’s Young Grower competition.

] by Kent caddick

Rink, who is a production manager for Oakley’s Premium Fresh Vegetables in Southbridge, finished behind Bay of Plenty technical lab manager Phoebe Scherer who won the coveted 2025 Young Grower national title.

The 29-year-old Scherer competed against Rink and five other regional winners in a series of challenges at Lincoln University in Christchurch in September.

The seven finalists competed in a series of practical and theoretical horticulture modules, testing their vegetable and fruit-growing knowledge and skills needed to be successful growers.

Scherer said she had thoroughly enjoyed stepping up to the many challenges.

“The science and technical modules were my ‘safe space’ but others I found much more challenging, particularly the machinery section. We had to drive a big tractor along a GPS line. It was the biggest piece of equipment I have ever stepped into, but we were very well supported.

“It was a very high calibre field of competitors, and everyone did so well. I could not have asked for a better cohort to have shared such a great experience with.”

The Young Grower competition celebrates the success of young people in the industry as well as encouraging others to consider a career in horticulture.

Winners were announced at the annual awards gala dinner held at the Airforce Museum of New Zealand, Wigram, on 11 September, where finalists also participated in the Leadership panel event sponsored by Ballance.

Scherer also won the Best Technical award and Rink the Best Innovation award. Lydia Goodman, representing Central Otago, won the Outstanding Leadership Award.

Regional organisers host and run the regional competitions independently, with Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) hosting the final in a different part of the country each year.

Entry is open to both commercial fruit and vegetable growers from across the regions, up to the age of 30.

HortNZ chair Bernadine Guilleux said the regional and national competitions play an important role in raising awareness about the many career and personal development opportunities across the horticulture sector.

“The exceptional skills we once again saw in all our finalists, and the support, passion and enthusiasm from participants, organisers and supporters really sums up the spirit of the horticulture sector.”

HortNZ chief executive Kate Scott said the regional and national competitions were made possible by the dedication of people from across the sector who had given signifi-

cant time and effort to organise and help run the events.

“This is a very exciting time for the industry as we focus on our ambitious goal to double the farmgate value of horticulture in New Zealand,” Scott said.

“We need many more highly skilled young people, like our finalists, who want to build rewarding careers in jobs they really enjoy, take advantage of the many opportunities for

professional development and be prepared to step up as the leaders of the future.

“There are many opportunities, from crop management and machinery operation to soil science, quality control and marketing and much more.

“We are always very happy to hear from young people who would like to know more about the range of options the industry offers.”

Winner: Young Grower winner 2025 Phoebe Scherer (left) receives her trophy from Associate Minister of Agriculture Nicola Grigg.

Plantain’s role in reducing N leaching

DairyNZ’s Plantain programme continues to deliver promising results, with new data confirming that modest levels of plantain in pastures reduce nitrogen leaching, offering farmers a practical, science-backed tool to meet environmental goals.

] Article supplied by DairyNZ With three years now complete, preliminary findings from the Lincoln University farmlet trial show 26% reduction in nitrate (N) leaching with an average of 17% Ecotain plantain in the pasture.

Results from the Massey farmlet trial show over four years, N leaching was reduced on average by 26% where Ecotain plantain made up an average 25% in the pasture.

Monitoring on four mid-Canterbury farms shows that an average of 10-15% plantain across the whole farm is achievable by including plantain as part of the seed mix at pasture renewal and by broadcasting seed across the whole farm with fertiliser. The highest levels (20-40% plantain) are achieved in new swards 1-2 years after establishment.

Kate Fransen, DairyNZ’s Plantain Programme lead, said the programme continues to show that plantain is a low-cost option to achieve significant reductions in N leaching without impacting the farm system.

“Nitrogen leaching is an issue for many dairy catchments, so we need practical, affordable solutions. Including plantain in your pasture is ‘low-hanging fruit’ for reducing N leaching, and we now know you don’t need to have 30% plantain in your pasture to have the positive effect,” Fransen said.

“Research shows that 17% plantain across the farm is enough to make a sizeable difference to N leaching, and that between 10 and 20% plantain across the farm is achievable and practical for many farmers.”

The final year of data collection is underway at the Lincoln site, while at Massey data collection is complete and final analysis is underway. The programme now turns its focus to adoption of plantain in targeted N sensitive catchments.

Already regional success stories emerging as farmers across New Zealand adapt the science to suit their systems.

In Southland farmers are maintaining 8-10% plantain across their farms by including plantain in their re-grassing mix and have begun trialling broadcasting seed with fertiliser into existing pastures to push levels higher.

Modelling estimates that farmers will have 7% and 9% higher profit/ha with 10% and 20% plantain respectively, relative to

farmers reaching the same N leaching reduction via alternative strategies.

In Mid-Canterbury partner farmers are demonstrating success with plantain in mixed swards, achieving 10-15% across the farm.

Overseer estimates that every 1% of plantain in pasture reduces nitrogen leaching by about 0.6% by reducing N in the urine patch. Research has also suggested that plantain can further cut leaching through soil processes.

“It’s encouraging that measured leaching reductions at Lincoln and Massey are greater than the modelled estimates, highlighting the potential benefit when both urine and soil processes are accounted for.”

At the programme’s mid-term review, one of the key recommendations was to better understand these soil processes so the full benefits of plantain can be built into Overseer. This will be a major focus for the Plantain programme over the next three years.

Plantain power: Monitoring on four midcanterbury farms shows that an average of 10-15% plantain across the whole farm is achievable by including plantain as part of the seed mix at pasture renewal and by broadcasting seed across the whole farm with fertiliser.

Plantain is recognised as an N leaching mitigation option by regional councils in Canterbury, Horizons, Waikato, Southland and Bay of Plenty, where N leaching limits are in place.

the Plantain Potency Programme is a seven-year research initiative led by DairyNZ and using Agricom’s ecotain environmental plantain. the funding partners are MPI, DairyNZ, PGG Wrightson Seeds Ltd and Fonterra.

Farmers ‘blindsided’ by winter grazing fees

Southland farmers are raising concerns over unexpected charges following Environment Southland’s winter grazing compliance checks, with some invoices reportedly reaching $4000.

farmers upset about the lack of notice, and the charges,” Herrick says.

Federated Farmers Southland president Jason Herrick said the problem isn’t the inspections themselves, but the fees issued when no problems are found.

“Farmers understand the need for good environmental practices and compliance,” Herrick said.

“But being invoiced for a visit where there are no breaches or problems is incredibly frustrating.

“One farmer I spoke to was charged for nine hours of staff time for a compliance visit where everything was fine. It’s absolutely ridiculous.”

Environment Southland has been conducting flyovers to monitor intensive winter grazing. Following these aerial checks, officers have been visiting some farms to confirm compliance with environmental regulations.

Herrick said some farmers have told him visits have come with little to no notice, adding to their frustration.

“I’ve definitely had a few phone calls from

“They feel blindsided, especially when the inspection confirms everything is in order.”

He said council officials will defend the fees as a way of ensuring compliance costs aren’t passed onto ratepayers.

“They’ll say they’re just charging where the costs are, but from a farmer’s perspective, it feels like being penalised for doing the right thing.”

He said the current approach also raises questions about the balance between environmental oversight and supporting farmers to comply.

“There really needs to be a fair and transparent process around fees. If fees for compliant farms continue, it will erode trust. Farmers want to cooperate, but they also need to feel treated fairly.”

Herrick said many farmers have been unfairly caught out by a change in the Water and Land Plan, which increased the fencing setback for waterways from three metres to five.

The rule was introduced last season, after crops had already been planted, requiring

Protect your crop, farm and future.

the five-metre buffer to be measured inside the paddock.

“Plenty of farmers did the right thing by the old rules, but now they’re being followed up after flyovers. Wouldn’t it make more sense for the council to focus on educating farmers about the change and supporting them to adapt, rather than penalising them?”

He said this is particularly important with winter grazing, where crop sowing and fencing decisions are locked in well ahead of time.

“Once crops are in the ground, making changes is difficult, time-consuming and costly.”

Too much: Federated Farmers Southland president Jason Herrick said winter grazing compliance checks are proving costly, with some invoices reportedly reaching $4000.

Herrick said he’d like to see the council taking more of an educational approach to winter grazing compliance.

“I’ve heard from farmers in other regions like Otago, where councils are managing compliance from a very different mindset.

“They’ve taken more of an educational approach, helping farmers understand what their obligations are and supporting them to lift their standard where needed.

“I think Environment Southland should follow suit. That would help them build more trust with farmers down here, and quite possibly achieve even better compliance.”

Questar with Inatreq active offers a unique mode of action for persistent curative and protective control against all Septoria strains.

Using our patented i-Q4 formulation, it provides near 100% leaf coverage and high flexibility in application, delivering robust, market-leading protection so you can secure your yield and the future of your farm.

Boost for methane inhibitor for grazing livestock

A boost in funding is giving fresh impetus to New Zealand researchers’ quest for a unique compound that ‘ticks all the boxes’ to inhibit methane from grazing livestock and help farmers reduce emissions without compromising productivity.

] by Kent caddick

AgriZeroNZ and the Ag Emissions Centre are investing $4m and $2.5m respectively to ramp up efforts to develop at least one costeffective methane inhibitor.

The work, led by the AgResearch Group which is part of the Bioeconomy Science Institute (BSI), builds on foundational research co-funded by the Pastoral Greenhouse Gas Research Consortium (PGgRc) and the Ag Emissions Centre.

AgriZeroNZ had previously invested an additional $1million in 2023, while it explored the best way to support acceleration of the work.

AgriZeroNZ chief executive Wayne McNee said the co-investment builds on the expertise and findings to date, to drive a fresh focus on delivering a practical solution for farmers.

“Kiwi farmers are highly emissions efficient producers of milk and meat but we need to keep making progress to meet the global demand for lower emissions products from our export customers, and it’s critical we give farmers tools to do that,” McNee said.

“We’re fortunate in New Zealand to have world-leading scientists with a great deal of expertise in developing solutions for our pasture-based farms and the ongoing involvement from Zoetis in this work is testament to that.

“This type of scientific innovation has the potential to shape the future of our agricultural sector, but only if we can get something to farmers – so we’re collectively focused on driving a final push to try get it across the line and bring it to market.”

A methane inhibitor is a chemical compound that reduces the activity of methaneforming microbes (called methanogens) in

ruminant animals, such as cattle, sheep, deer and goats. These animals produce methane in their rumen, or stomach, as they digest their food and then burp it out into the atmosphere.

The research has recently narrowed in on a number of stand-out compounds with initial results from clinical research studies showing promising methane reduction.

The team is now seeking to prove the effectiveness of these in grazing animals while continuing to explore new compounds that might do the job even better.

Ag Emissions Centre principal scientist Dr Sinead Leahy said reducing methane in grazing livestock presents unique challenges so the Kiwi-focus is vital to the programme’s success.

“A lot of overseas research on this is focused on giving the animal something in every mouthful of feed and that’s just not practical for New Zealand farms, where our animals mainly live outdoors, grazing on pasture,” Leahy said.

“The beauty of this work is that we’re searching for what works in a pasture system first, not something that reduces methane then trying to figure out if it works in pasture.

“We’re looking for a very specific type of compound that’s non-toxic, safe and effective but also long-lasting and with no negative impact on productivity.”

A successful inhibitor could be given to animals in a variety of ways, including a feed additive or bolus. It would also require regulatory approval to ensure its safety.

Before the inhibitor product can be made available to New Zealand farmers, it would require approval under the Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines (ACVM) Act by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI).

Reduction: A methane inhibitor is a chemical compound which reduces the activity of methane-forming microbes in ruminant animals, such as cattle, sheep, deer and goats.

Rural Builds Without the Hassle

Award-winning homes designed for life on the land

Supplied by David Reid Homes Canterbury

Whether you’re running a farm or creating a lifestyle block retreat, building a new home in rural Canterbury comes with its own challenges. Long driveways, exposed sites, access for contractors, water and power supply, council consents and unpredictable weather can all make the process more complex than in suburban areas.

At David Reid Homes Canterbury, managing rural and lifestyle builds is what the team does best. With extensive experience transforming remote or challenging sites into award-winning homes, they balance practicality with thoughtful design to make the building process smooth and stress-free for owners.

“Rural and lifestyle builds come with unique hurdles,” says Director Carl Fordyce. “Our role is to take that weight off the client’s shoulders. We manage consents, engineers, and surveyors, and we work closely with ECAN and local councils to meet septic system and stormwater requirements, helping to protect the client’s land throughout the build.”

Every home is designed with both practicality and sophistication in mind. Mudrooms handle the mess of farm life,

pavilion layouts capture the views while shielding from nor’west winds, and each home integrates seamlessly with the natural environment. They sit comfortably in the landscape, enhancing rather than disrupting it.

No two sites are the same, and David Reid Homes Canterbury creates tailored solutions for each. From steep terrain

to heritage trees or conservation rules, careful planning and smart engineering ensure every home lasts while preserving its character.

“Most of our clients tell us the process was much easier than they expected,” says Director Aaron Hooper. “Our goal is a smooth, stress-free journey to a home that suits their family and their land.”

Rural and lifestyle builds come with unique hurdles. Our role is to take that weight off the client’s shoulders. We manage consents, engineers, and surveyors, and we work closely with ECAN and local councils to meet septic system and stormwater requirements, helping to protect the client’s land throughout the build.

For Canterbury farmers and lifestyle block owners, the right builder matters. With David Reid Homes Canterbury, you get a home designed for rural living and peace of mind along the way.

Ready to discuss your building project? Get in touch with Carl today on 021 0272 8839 or visit the website: davidreidhomes.co.nz

As experienced design and build specialists, we combine the latest building technologies with our award-winning expertise to create a home that reflects who you are and how you live, tailored to the conditions of rural Canterbury. The complete experience.

New equity partnership launched

Pamu has announced a new equity partnership opportunity designed to support pathways to farm ownership for livestock farm operators.

] Article supplied by Pamu Landcorp

The first property open for expressions of interest is Mahiwi Farm, a 708 effective-hectare medium-rolling hill country livestock farm located 35 minutes west of Wairoa.

Pamu CEO Mark Leslie said this is more than a farm opportunity, it’s a strategic shift in how we support the next generation of livestock farmers.

“Mahiwi represents our commitment to unlocking equity pathways and backing highperforming operators with real skin in the game,” Leslie said.

“Mahiwi offers a strong balance of breeding and finishing country and scope for improved performance. This model is about empowering skilled operators to take the reins, build equity, and shape the future of farming with accountability and ambition.”

The equity partnership for livestock follows the 2024 Pamu introduction of contract farming options for dairy farmers, including sharemilking and contract milking, across four farms: Quarry and Otago in the Central Plateau, Waimakariri in Canterbury, and Ruru on the West Coast.

Mahiwi is the first livestock farm being offered up by the State-owned farmer under this model.

Key features of Mahiwi Farm:

• 708 effective farming hectares

Registrations of interest are now open, with equity partnership structures, lease terms, and expectations open to negotiation.

Common equity partner/manager roles have ownership of the land too but this is not the case for Mahiwi as Pamu cannot sell an interest in whenua. A minimum investment of $250,000 is required to be considered for the equity manager role.

“Pamu is proud to lead the way in creating new models of farm ownership. Mahiwi is the first step in a broader strategy to support talented operators with the tools, trust, and investment they need to thrive,” Leslie said.

Video on the opportunity: www.youtube.com/watch?v=6lgxK3K6f8U

More information and expression of interest packs are available: www.pamunewzealand.com or by emailing equity@landcorp.co.nz

• 7000 stock unit property – ideal for scale and focus

• 90 paddocks averaging 7.9ha each

• Average pasture yield: 8.1 tonne/ha/year

• Average rainfall: 1,734mm/year

• Infrastructure includes:

• One 4-bedroom, one 3-bedroom home, one 2-bedroom cottage and shearers’ quarters

• One woolshed, two sets of cattle yards and one satellite set

• One set of sheep yards and three satellite sets

• Reticulated water system across 70% of the farm

• Central lane running through the property.

Opportunity: Mahiwi is the first livestock farm being offered up by the State-owned farmer Pamu Landcorp under an equity partnership for livestock model.

Transforming farming with connectivity

Canterbury firm Connected Farms is leading groundbreaking research project transforming grain farming across the Tasman.

] Article supplied by Connected Farms

The Fairlie-based connectivity company is playing a pivotal role in revolutionising grain farming across Australia, as part of a $35 million research initiative that could transform agricultural operations on both sides of the Tasman.

Connected Farms, with its New Zealand headquarters near Albury in the heart of the Mackenzie Basin, is the key connectivity provider for the prestigious Grain Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) Grain Automate project. The five-year initiative is aimed at accelerating the adoption of autonomous farming technologies across Australia’s grain industry.

The company, which has been operating from the Fairlie area since April 2021, has been selected to provide comprehensive connectivity solutions to three flagship farms representing different regions and farming systems across Australia’s grain belt.

The project aims to demonstrate how enhanced connectivity can pave the way for widespread adoption of autonomous farming technologies.

Managing director of Connected Farms Tom Andrews said connectivity is a fundamental enabler of technological integration in agriculture.

“What we’re seeing on these Australian farms mirrors the challenges and opportunities we face here in Canterbury, that farms need reliable, robust connectivity to unlock the full potential of modern agricultural technology.”

The timing couldn’t be more relevant for Canterbury farmers. Like their Australian counterparts, many South Island operations struggle with patchy mobile coverage and limited broadband access, particularly in remote high-country stations and larger arable operations. This will only get worse when 3G is switched off over all of New Zealand, an early lesson the project faced in Australia when their 3G was terminated mid-harvest 2024.

Connected Farms’ New Zealand operations, led by Tom and Melissa Andrews who divide their time between Australia and South Canterbury, bring global expertise to local challenges.

The company’s solutions range from basic

• Driveways

• Earthquake Repairs

• New Home Specialists

• Patios & Paths

Connection: Fairlie-based connected Farms is involved in a project across the tasman which aims to demonstrate how enhanced connectivity can pave the way for widespread adoption of autonomous farming technologies.

connectivity improvements to sophisticated networks supporting autonomous machinery and precision agriculture applications.

“We know that farmers need connectivity where they spend most of their time – in the fields and in their sheds,” Melissa Andrews said.

“Connectivity enables farmers to reduce inputs and increase their yield and profitability.”

The technologies being deployed in the Grain Automate project, including mobile network extenders, satellite communications, and private 4G networks, are equally applicable to Canterbury farming conditions. From the vast sheep stations of the Mackenzie Basin to the intensive dairy operations of midCanterbury, similar connectivity challenges exist.

Initial results from the Grain Automate project have demonstrated transformative improvements in farm efficiency. Participating farms report improved data accuracy, enhanced remote monitoring capabilities, and increased operational efficiency through realtime adjustments and optimisations.

For Canterbury farmers watching developments across the Tasman, the project offers valuable insights into the future of agricultural technology adoption.

Tom Andrews said the project’s goal of ensuring 80 per cent of Australian grain growers are equipped for autonomous field-based agricultural machines by 2028 provides a roadmap that Canterbury farmers can follow.

“With Connected Farms’ local expertise and proven track record in Australian conditions, the technology barriers to precision agriculture adoption continue to fall.

“For Canterbury farming operations considering digital transformation, the Grain Automate project provides compelling evidence that connectivity isn’t just about staying connected, it’s about unlocking the next generation of agricultural productivity and sustainability.”

connected Farms New Zealand operates from the Fairlie area and can be contacted for information about connectivity solutions for canterbury farming operations. For more go to: www.connectedfarms.co

Stability the order of the day

Stability has once again been the order of the day in September with domestic and export log sales steady in demand and prices largely unchanged from August.

] with Allan Laurie MNZIF

] Laurie Forestry Ltd

This is great news once again with steady workflows and consistent production bringing broad scale efficiencies within commercial forestry industry related companies.

Indeed, my check of historic pricing suggests wharf gate prices for export logs have rarely moved outside of a $10 per cubic metre band in the last 2 years. This might even be regarded as small miracle given the world disorder and chaos that has emerged from President Trump’s economic mismanagement.

China consumption has been steady at 55,000 to 60,000 per day for the first half of September. Most commentators are suggesting an October lift in demand and possibly prices as Autunm weather allows more productive outputs.

Against that potential is recent news of some Letter of Credit (LC) issuing companies pulling back having sustained some big losses on trade defaults. As at mid-September there is some suggestion of downward price pressure as LC’s and contracts become harder to settle. Most are saying this is a short term “blip.”

China growth data statistics suggest a broad improvement in purchasing activity adding to positive economic gains whilst ris-

ing unemployment is a sign of slow trickledown effect. Other data shows accelerated input costs and weaker sales prices across key sectors.

A recent weakness the value of the Yuan against the US$ is helping to maintain sales prices for exports netted back to China manufacturers, but also helps drive up imported prices for logs, as an example.

Within this diverse mix of positives and negatives, most commentary is suggesting business confidence has strengthened to a 6-month high so in the longer term should help Radiata pine log prices to remain stable to strengthening.

India is also showing a combination of positives with inventory low, log prices stable to very slight improvements and most commentators remaining reasonably at peace with the world.

Current demand and sales are in good alignment with 7 vessels of softwood logs delivered in each of July and August, with a total 8 expected in September.

A total 10 vessels are forecast for October. This is potentially a worrying sign of oversupply when India also takes a 10-to-15-day holiday to celebrate the Diwali festival.

Whilst this suggests the supply/demand planets will be out of alignment, history shows the festival brings confidence and increased sales on either side of it, so broader

medium term trade levels are likely to remain stable.

Like China, India manufacturing confidence remains subdued on the back of uncertainty as to where US Tariff levels will land and how they will impact sales. What is becoming clear is the severe strain on the US economy under the previously referred to economic miss management.

What the increasingly less popular President Trump has not banked on is the big thumb the nose he is getting from US manufacturers. They are most certainly not queuing up to set up new factories in the US. They know full well that when nature takes its course and a new President assumes the declining lofty mantle, the tariffs will disappear, and the profit opportunities will go with them.

Shipping is once again furrowing the brow of charterers with the cost of most NZ September log voyages to both China and India increasing US$2 – $3 per cubic metre. There are some exceptions, for example larger handy class vessels are cheaper.

Cost increases are also less, where there are longer term multi vessel charter agreements, or where a single port load can be completed in NZ. For the moment, cost movements are manageable in the context of sale prices versus shipping costs versus currency exchange rates.

NZ domestic sales are chugging along at a just OK level. An air of positivity is starting to invade conversations with most believing they are in for a much better 2025/26 summer.

The closure of the CHH Eaves Valley sawmill has been seen as positive. Many have commented the lumber from that plant was more often than not, offered at discounts in Canterbury, seemingly to maintain cashflow whilst also ensuring no one printed black.

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

Transforming NZ’s bioeconomy

The Bioeconomy Science Institute has secured more than $20 million in Endeavour Fund support for two groundbreaking research programmes that will help reshape New Zealand’s food, biotech, and horticultural sectors.

] Article supplied by the ] Bioeconomy

Science Institute

The first is a five-year, $10.4 million initiative will harness Precision Fermentation (PF) to convert pine forestry residues into high-value proteins.

Led by Drs David Hooks and Scott Knowles from the Bioeconomy Science Institute, the initiative will convert softwood residues, which are typically discarded or burned, into fermentation feedstocks through novel chemoenzymatic methods.

These feedstocks will then be used to cultivate engineered yeast strains capable of producing specialty proteins such as osteopontin and casozepine, which mimic the nutritional and functional benefits of traditional animal-derived ingredients.

The programme supports New Zealand’s transition to a low-emission circular bioeconomy and addresses key challenges in feedstock availability, manufacturing scale, and the regulatory environment surrounding gene technologies.

Dr Hooks said this is more than a research programme.

“It’s a blueprint for how New Zealand can lead in the next generation of food and biotech innovation.

“This is about creating value from what we already have. New Zealand has abundant bioresources and world-class science. Precision Fermentation allows us to connect the two.

“By converting forestry residues into feedstocks, we’re unlocking a new pathway for sustainable protein production, one that aligns with global efforts to build climate-resilient food systems.”

Scientific innovations expected from the programme include:

• Novel enzymes to convert lignocellulosic biomass into fermentable sugars

• Yeast engineering through adaptive evolution for high protein expression

• Single-cell protein as a co-product for animal feed

• Digital twin modelling to simulate and optimise PF processes

The second programme known as SuperStoring is looking into extending the life of perishable fruits. The programme has been funded for five years.

Led by Bioeconomy Science Institute cultivar development scientist Associate Profes-

sor Robert Schaffer and Dr. Rosie Schröder, this $10.2 million programme aims to replicate the long storage life of kiwifruit in other fast-perishable fruits such as summerfruit and berries.

By applying advanced gene technologies, the team will enable these crops to be stored and shipped by sea to distant markets like Asia and Europe, dramatically expanding export potential.

New Zealand’s fresh fruit exports currently generate $3.5 billion annually, dominated by kiwifruit and apples.

This research will help diversify the horticultural sector, supporting the Government’s goal of increasing export value from $7 bil-

• Woodlot and shelterbelt harvesting

• Timber sales to domestic and export markets

• Forest establishment of harvested and greenfield sites

• Forest valuation

• Emission Trading Scheme advice and management

• Trainer/Assessor in NZQA forestry related units

Research: One two groundbreaking research programmes to be carried out by the bioeconomy Science Institute will look into converting pine forestry residues into high-value proteins.

lion to $12 billion per year. It is expected to generate over $600 million in additional domestic economic activity, reduce food waste, and lower emissions by replacing air-freight with sea-freight.

“This work will directly benefit growers, extend harvest windows, and build resilience against extreme weather,” Associate Professor Schaffer said.

“It’s about unlocking the full potential of New Zealand’s horticultural diversity.”

the bioeconomy Science Institute is a crown research Institute, owned by the New Zealand Government and governed by an independent board of Directors. For more information: bioeconomyscience.co.nz

Streamlined export regulations welcomed

The Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand (DCANZ) says the New Zealand economy will benefit from the streamlining of regulatory approaches for dairy exports.

] by Kent caddick

The Government has announced the removal of a requirement that dairy exporters must obtain gazetted exemptions for their products from domestic compositional standards when selling to countries with different standards.

It is estimated that exporters could have missed out on millions of dollars in export earnings over recent years because of the requirement.

DCANZ chairman Guy Roper said the change will make it easier for companies to export new, high-value, and innovative dairy products.

“This is great news for the New Zealand economy at a time when every export dollar from every market matters,” Roper said.

“DCANZ is not aware of any other country requiring its dairy exporters to obtain gazetted exemptions from domestic compositional standards when they are not appropriate for the export market.

These applications have often taken

months to process, slowing the time to market for new products.”

Roper said the requirement to apply for compositional exemptions has put exporters at a disadvantage to their overseas competitors when responding to international customer requirements.

“The changes will remove a long-standing and self-inflicted barrier to growing the value of New Zealand’s dairy exports at a time when our economy needs every export dollar it can get.”

He said every country’s food regulators determine the appropriate product standards for food sold in their market and they do that by taking into account the needs of their domestic populations and factors such as geographically differing nutrient availability across all food sources.

“A good example of this is that Europe has set higher ranges for vitamin D in formulated foods than New Zealand does, reflecting that our northern hemisphere counterparts receive less vitamin D from other sources, such as sunlight.

“Meanwhile, New Zealand’s requirements for selenium levels in formulated foods are higher than other countries, reflecting the low levels we have in our soils and therefore in our other food sources.”

The requirement for compositional exemptions has been in place since 2005 despite there being a legal requirement under the Animal Products Act (1999) for dairy exporters to ensure their products are safe and conform to the requirements of their intended market.

“Dairy exporters have been seeking this change for some years. In 2020 we identified it as a regulatory change that would support export value growth, and the need for the requirement has been consistently questioned since its introduction.

“We are pleased the Government has removed this unnecessary and costly second-guessing of other countries’ regulatory competence,” Roper said.

“Having a streamlined and less duplicative regulatory approach around this is exactly the type of red-tape reduction needed to support export growth.”

season on a firm footing

Backing: the Dairy companies Association of New Zealand is backing the Government’s streamlining of regulatory approaches for dairy exports.

Needle shifting change is here

Shifting the needle is a term that has special significance for those of us that grew up listening to music recorded on vinyl.

] with Peter burton

Today ‘needle shifting’ is synonymous with ‘significant change’ and we’re seeing that in the fertiliser industry.

It is true that any business that is not environmentally sustainable has a limited life span which must be factored into its value.

Regardless of its contribution to GDP and the number of overseas dollars earned, if there is a serious downside there is a problem.

Clean fresh drinking water is a birthright of all New Zealanders and protecting that is essential.

Increasing nitrate-N levels have been ignored for long enough and it’s time to face the issue and fix it before the problem becomes so large it’s difficult to know where to start.

At present steadily increasing nitrate-N levels are limited to intensive dairying areas. We also know that it is directly related to the regular application of synthetic nitrogen to boost pasture growth.

Its use is based on the increase in growth that results from an application and in the short term that does happen, however since its introduction in 1990 annual pasture growth has declined.

That claim is often ridiculed although careful checking will reveal it to be correct. It’s important because farmers’ incomes are primarily derived from the growth and consumption of pasture.

Another fact is that it is under grazed permanent pasture that carbon is most rapidly sequestered, but when regular applications of synthetic nitrogen are applied the rate of gain is lessened.

The key to sustainably increasing pasture growth and locking carbon into the soil is providing the essential nitrogen from legumes, primarily clover.

Under these conditions, which prevailed until the early 1990’s, nitrate-N losses to groundwater are minimised

Shifting the needle: Needle shifting used to mean what we did with vinyl records but today it can also apply to using clover instead of synthetic nitrogen.

and place dairy farmers in a position of potentially being able to claim carbon credits.

A study conducted by Scion of Rotorua on two intensive dairy farms at Otakiri near Edgecumbe clearly showed the benefits of a clover-based pasture system.

Growth was 30% higher and the loss of nitrate-N to groundwater was 70% less. Fewer animals were required to provide a significantly higher profit which was independently verified.

The soil fertility programme for the property with higher growth and less N-loss was

based on New Zealand research and provided by Functional Fertiliser.

Higher than usual calcium inputs are recommended as clover contains several times the calcium of grasses. Higher calcium levels also stimulate the activity of beneficial earthworms, bacteria, and fungi.

The enhanced activity of beneficial biology is also stimulated by the addition of a proprietary mix of selected bacteria and fungi.

Phosphorus, sulphur, and potassium remain essential inputs and included as and when required, however calcium rather than phosphorus is the driver of the process.

Electrical problems or maintenance?

Use our unrivalled industrial electrical service for:

• Dairy sheds and irrigation

• Power reticulation

• Effluent control

• Dryers, conveyors and generators

• Switchboards and central supplies

The change from a synthetic nitrogen driven programme is not difficult nor is there necessarily a reduction in growth before the fixation of nitrogen free-of-charge by clover fully compensates.

Because clover outgrows grasses from November until late autumn, spring is the ideal time to instigate the transition to a genuinely sustainable future.

For more information talk to Peter on 027 495 0041 or 0800 843 809.

Taking control of hot water on the farm

Synergy Heat is the modern answer to hot water control on farm.

Until now, many sheds ran on simple time clocks to switch cylinders between day and night power.

But with today’s complex electricity pricing, solar generation, and peak time charges, those old timers no longer deliver the options farmers need.

Synergy Heat uses smart control to automatically heat water when it’s cheapest and most efficient, whether that’s off-peak, in the middle of the day, when solar is available or the middle of the night.

It installs easily onto existing cylinders, is low-cost, and provides a fast, high return on investment. Energy efficiency is also improved with unique software that only heats water when it is needed and shuts off the heating until it is needed again.

A monitoring system is built in to deliver temperature and maintenance alerts. This system can help to improve operations through better maintenance visibility and keeping temperatures in check can further improve energy savings and quality control.

Ashburton based Flex-Able is a technology company which provides the Synergy Heat solution. Flex-Able General Manager Josh Benjamin says Synergy Heat is designed and built in Canterbury.

“Our unique software is developed to help farms see the full benefits of savings and our products are designed to deliver affordable savings with low upfront cost compared to other options such as heat pumps,” Benjamin says.

“Electricity in New Zealand is only getting more complex as the country moves further

into electrification, with higher peak charges, more solar, and variable pricing.”

Flex-Able’s products like Synergy Heat give farmers the tools to take back control, deciding when and how to use power, instead of just accepting the bill at the end

of the month. This is about future-proofing farming operations and giving rural businesses real control over their energy use.

“We’re proud that Synergy Heat is designed and built here in Canterbury, for New Zealand farms.

Synergy Heat, designed and built in canterbury, uses smart control to automatically heat water when it’s cheapest and most efficient.

“What makes us proud is seeing Synergy Heat help sheds run smarter and more efficiently, proving that local innovation can give farmers the tools to not just accept power prices, but to actively manage them for a reasonable up-front cost.

Strong growth for Yili’s New Zealand dairy companies

Yili Group-owned dairy companies operating in New Zealand are on track for strong revenue growth in 2025 after recording significant year-on-year growth for the first half of the year.

] by Kent caddick

Westland Milk Products and Oceania Dairy have posted combined unaudited revenue growth of 16 per cent compared to the same period last year. Before tax profit growth for the first half of 2025 is 12 per cent.

Executive director, Zhiqiang Li, said profitability is expected to continue to climb for both companies well into 2026.

“Production capacity of high-demand, high-value products across Westland’s Hokitika and Rolleston sites and ODL’s Glenavy facility have undergone significant investment to capitalize on surging global demand for high-quality dairy products,’’ Li said.

Consumer butter production capacity at Hokitika has been boosted by 10,000 tonnes, while increased skim-milk powder production capacity at Glenavy has also led to increased production of UHT Cream at

Rolleston with ODL cream now diverted to the Rolleston site.

Production capacity at Rolleston of UHT cream for the Chinese market has been boosted by 20 per cent following investment in a new silo and improvements to the unloading facility.

Li said both Westland and ODL, which since 2024 have also operated under a cooperative external sales arrangement, are well positioned to build revenue growth off the back of increased production capacity.

“Greater efficiencies and production capacity under this co-operative arrangement give us far more opportunities to optimize product mix and build on our high-value strategy,’’ he said.

“Profits for the individual companies in the meantime will go through a consolidation period, however, both total revenue and profit margins are expected to continue to show healthy growth.’’

50 HEAD OR 1,000 HEAD, WE’LL HELP YOU STAY AHEAD.

At FMG, we’re here to help dairy farmers stay informed and get ahead. That’s why along with offering useful advice and tips, we support dairy workshops and seminars happening right across the country. Because at the end of the day, learning the latest techniques and developing new skills will help you make positive changes and better decisions. So take the opportunity to stay ahead at a dairy event near you. Head to fmg.co.nz/dairyevents to find out more.

We’re here for the good of the country. SUPPORTING DAIRY INDUSTRY EVENTS AND GIVING GREAT ADVICE.

Butter up: consumer butter production capacity at Westland Milk’s Hokitika factory has been boosted by 10,000 tonnes.

Strong global milk supply growth

With global milk supply growth on the rise, the global dairy market looks set to face a period of increasing exportable surpluses which will ‘test the market balance’ over the year ahead.

] Article supplied by Rabobank That’s according to a new report by food and agribusiness banking specialist Rabobank.

In its Q3 Global Dairy Quarterly Report, Rabobank says the velocity in milk supply growth across most of the key dairy export regions has shifted, outperforming previous expectations.

“For example, July milk production in the US was up by 3.4% year-on-year (YOY), and this is the highest growth rate we’ve seen since 2021,” report co-author RaboResearch senior analyst Emma Higgins said.

“We’ve also seen really strong New Zealand production following a record start to the new 2025/26 season.”

Higgins said improving farm margins, recovery from last year’s disease outbreaks, and the absence of disruptive weather are expected to drive milk supplies higher in the coming months.

“Across the Big 7 exporting regions, New Zealand, Australia, the EU, the US, Uruguay, Argentina and Brazil, we’re expecting milk supply growth of 2% YOY for the second half of 2025 before slowing to 0.44% YOY in 2026,” Higgins said.

“Most European and Oceania farmgate milk prices are near record highs. At the same time, purchased feed prices are expected to be favourable into 2026, as ample supplies keep prices in check.”

Moving forward, the report says, global dairy markets are still expected to face headwinds on the demand side, particularly among low and middle income earners.

“Ongoing sluggishness in demand is evident across many food service channels, and a boost in consumer confidence will be needed to lift discretionary spending.”

Despite the changing supply and demand fundamentals, Higgins said, RaboResearch still anticipates a New Zealand farmgate milk price of $10.00/kgMS is possible for the 2025/26 season.

“Although a gradual recovery in demand should help absorb the additional volume, near-term price softness is likely,” she said.

One of the key risks to maintaining a $10.00/kgMS forecast is the potential for increased milk production out of New Zealand.

With broadly favourable weather conditions, strong cashflows, and the sun emerging, the 2025/26 season could see a robust spring flush, adding further supply-side pressure to global markets.

These dynamics suggest that while

AGRI-SHELL

$10.00/kgMS is still possible, it will require a delicate balance between supply growth and demand recovery.”

The report says New Zealand dairy export volumes for the three months to July 2025 were down 5% year-on-year, despite a 3.7% YOY surge in milk flows in quarter two.

“Shipments to China held steady over the three-month period, but exports to Indonesia, Algeria, Malaysia, Australia, and Thailand all fell by double-digit percentages,” Higgins said.

“Increased demand from Saudi Arabia and UAE helped offset part of the short fall.”

“Some inventory overhang from the end of the previous selling season may be lingering as the new production year begins.

Record: raboresearch senior analyst emma Higgins says if conditions continue to align, New Zealand dairy farmers could be on track to set a new production record.

Looking ahead export volumes are expected to remain stable through the second half of 2025 and into 2026.”

The report says New Zealand dairy farmer revenues remain strong.

“Fonterra has maintained its milk price forecast of $10.00/kgMS for the 2025/26 season and raised its forecast for 2024/25 to $10.15/kgMS.”

While revenues are up, Higgins said, so too are costs.

“Feed prices are rising across most inputs, but they remain affordable, and strong early season milk flows point to a bumper production season.

If conditions continue to align, New Zealand dairy farmers could be on track to set a new production record, building on a strong 2024/25 season, which ended 2.6% YOY higher in tonnage and 3.3% YOY higher in milk solids.”

Levelling the playing field

As velvet season is upon us, hopefully all velvet producers are familiar with the subtle changes for the season, including the shift to seasonal declarations, valid for 180 days, and have kept an eye on recent changes to VelTrak.

reaffirm their commitment to the updated Terms of Use.

benefits the industry when everyone is operating on a level-playing field.”

] by Sarah O’connell

While the changes won’t affect farmers greatly, they are positive and important in the wider plans for the industry.

On 1 August 2025, re-registration opened for all VelTrak Accredited Account Owners (AAOs). By 10 September, twenty organisations had submitted their applications. As part of their re-registration, every AAO – typically a buyer, processor or exporter – must

“Tightening up VelTrak for the upcoming season is really all about making sure systems are working as well as they could be for all,” says DINZ CEO Rhys Griffiths.

“This includes several areas of increased scrutiny, such as the timely filing of monthly returns, on-time levy payments, accuracy of declared volumes, and chain of custody compliance.

“Now, you can take this as encouraging high-integrity systems or disincentivising poor behaviour, but the result is the same. It

September also saw the regional chairs of the New Zealand Deer Farmers’ Association (NZDFA) congregate in Wellington for a two-day event of two-way communication with DINZ reporting the state of play from its side and the chairs reporting back from the regions, while the NZDFA Executive Committee runs proceedings.

‘It is so valuable to have a network of like-minded peers, both for learning and for community.

It’s a key event for the deer year, a way to utilise the branches as conduits for getting information to farmers. Branches are encouraged to nominate and bring a New Face, or up-and-coming branch member who may be looking for a future in industry governance.

This year, topics of interest were the velvet season ahead and changes previously mentioned to relevant systems and structures; research projects underway; OSPRI, on both operational matters and the national TB Plan Review; the changing environmental situation; and more.

September also saw the launch of an updated New Zealand venison website (nzvenison.com). We have increasingly seen the need to tell the story of our incredible New Zealand venison better in overseas markets – whether that be New Zealand’s top-notch farming systems and practices, the history of the industry, nutritional information, quality assurance and more.

The new website is fit-for-purpose for storytelling in the digital era, and a welcome upgrade to its predecessor.

Staying with venison, reports from both Europe and North America are that demand

is strong. Everything sounds positive ahead of the European game season, and demand remains consistent out of North America.

Supplying the demand will be the shortterm challenge, which is why it is encouraging to see and hear recent stories of farmers getting into or returning to deer.

One of the key takeaways we keep hearing alongside these stories is the importance of local NZDFA branches in helping newbies or returnees with their deer knowledge – on everything from handling and stockmanship to parasite management.

Deer are unique, and it is so valuable to have a network of like-minded peers, both for learning and for community.

Finally, for those who couldn’t make our TB Plan Review webinar at the beginning of the month, you can check out what is being proposed, how and by when by heading over to the Deer NZ website, where you’ll find a recording of the webinar in Our Stories.

After that, you can head on over to www. tbplanreview.co.nz and have your say before consultation closes on 12 October.

VR experience tests riders’ ATV skills

Former rally driver and Otago sheep farmer Rhys Gardner has poured the knowledge he has gained from those careers into developing three-dimensional virtual reality (VR) experiences of operating vehicles in ‘real life’ situations.

] by Kent caddick

He’s also calling on farmers to share their real life near misses or accidents so his team can turn them into VR learnings that others can benefit from.

Gardner said he grew up on a steep hill farm near the Catlins in Otago, “where we were surrounded by risks, but we never really recognised them”.

He farmed throughout his 20s and 30s and experienced several near misses on quads and tractors himself.

In 2015, he formed his Dunedin-based Gfactor business, dedicated to unleashing the power of VR to provide people with the opportunity to manage the risks involved in using vehicles, through a VR lived experience.

Fresh from taking the farm/quad bike version of their programme to the United States, where it had a powerful impact on riders at expos in Wisconsin and Arizona, Gardner teamed up with Safer Farms to provide visitors to this year’s Mystery Creek Fieldays with the same experience.

Visitors to the Safer Farms stand in the Pavilion were able to take part in the free seven-minute 3D experience involving ATV’s in potentially risky situations.

“The core value of what we do is the ability for people to experience the consequences of their actions,” Gardner said.

“I believe strongly that most people learn from ‘doing’. The cool thing about VR is that people can try things and live the experience of what would happen in that real-life situation, but they can do that without getting hurt.”

In the US, Gfactor is partnering with a foundation that is working to promote awareness around safe use of quad bikes. There are over 10 million quad bikes in the US, contributing to at least 40,000 serious or fatal youth injuries each year.

He believes there are three reasons most farm vehicle accidents happen.

“One is deliberately taking a shortcut on something or going somewhere we know we probably shouldn’t be. A busy farmer might be trying to get stuff done and jump on a bike without even realising that one of the tyres is completely flat.

“A second is that there is something we don’t actually know or understand. Like a vehicle slipping down a hill because we didn’t know the 4WD settings in a new machine.

“For me, that was the loss of control of a tractor in 2WD with a loader on the front, down a steep hill. I’d been told many times but never really understood the importance.

“The third is complacency or distraction, not paying enough attention. Sometimes because we are thinking about something else or slept poorly. Most of my near-misses actually fall under this one, often during times when there’s a bit of stress on.

VR training: Former Otago sheep farmer rhys Gardner is looking to reduce the number of often fatal AtV accidents through the use of virtual reality.

“Each time, I’ve had an accident or near miss because of one of these reasons, there’s been something important that I’ve realised afterwards.”

Gardner said that is one of the reasons he wants to hear from New Zealand farmers and other ATV operators who are faced with the challenges of running vehicles in tough conditions.

“We are inviting them to share their own accounts of near misses – in other words –‘war stories’. Ideally, we will turn them into VR scenarios too, so everyone can benefit from those experiences.”