Environmental breeding: Head of Genetics at B+LNZ Dr Jason Archer says the goal of the trial is to develop new traits specifically for the New Zealand beef industry so farmers can produce cattle with a light environmental footprint and still run productive and profitable farms.
An Angus stud in North Canterbury is taking part in an innovative new project aimed at producing the world’s most efficient beef cattle with a low environmental footprint.
Farmers and scientists are using the latest technology to measure how efficiently New Zealand beef cattle convert feed into liveweight, and their greenhouse gas emissions, in the cutting-edge trial at the Te Mania Angus stud near Parnassus.
Research teams are hoping to use the information from the trial to develop genetic tools farmers can use to produce animals that
feed more efficiently and emit less methane, without reducing the animal’s productivity.
Geneticists from Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Informing New Zealand Beef programme, scientists from AgResearch and Te Mania Angus stud are working together on the project.
Head of Genetics at B+LNZ Dr Jason Archer said the goal of the trial is to develop new traits specifically for the New Zealand beef industry so farmers can produce efficient cattle
with a light environmental footprint and run productive and profitable farms.
“The feed efficiency of an animal is important to farmers because they’re facing rising costs behind the farm-gate,” Archer said.
“An animal that can grow or produce more for the same amount of feed eaten is a real advantage for the farmer. At the same time, we are keen to find animals that produce less methane.
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“We aim to create two breeding values, the measure of an animal’s genetic potential to pass on specific traits to its offspring, one for feed efficiency and another for methane emissions per kilo of feed.”
Archer said in sheep, we have shown that we can breed for animals that produce less methane for every mouthful of feed.
“The goal in this trial is to try and identify those cattle that can do both, produce less methane per kilogram of feed and grow faster per kilogram of feed. That way we can get a double shot of lower methane and better animal performance.”
He said New Zealand’s greenhouse gas emissions profile is heavily influenced by enteric methane from livestock production.
“Methane reductions will be important in future to meet climate commitments and will support marketing efforts around lower carbon input red meat production.
“This becomes more relevant as governments and customers focus on reducing their Scope 3 emissions.”
Director at Te Mania Angus Will Wilding said feed intake is measured by feeding silage in a bin that sits on load bar scales.
“Basically, the Vytelle Sense system is a big tub of silage sitting on scales,” Wilding said.
“Only one animal can feed at any one time. While the animal eats, the system reads its NAIT identification tag, records which specific animal is eating, and weighs feed before, during and after feeding.
lated to reduced emissions. By gradually improving feed efficiency in cattle, we can also reduce emissions.
“Improving feed efficiency and methane output provides a pathway to mitigate potential regulatory risks and offers a competitive advantage to our customers through more productive, lower-emission genetics.
“With the genetic reduction in emissions and a lift in production, I think this is a much better alternative for New Zealand than reducing the national herd to meet commitments. There is also the potential we could grow the national herd and emit less than the targets set.”
Wilding said the work is not being done for single trait selection and that the Te Mania herd maintains its fundamental breeding policy to ensure other qualities are not lost.
AgResearch principal scientist Dr Suzanne Rowe said the Portable Accumulation Chambers developed by the research institute can be taken by trailer to where the cattle are grazing for methane measurement on site.
“This technology has addressed a longstanding gap in the ability to effectively measure grazing beef cattle,” Rowe said.
“The cow walks into the chamber and we capture all the gas that’s emitted from that animal for just one hour. We then use this data to rank animals according to their methane emissions.
“The measures help farmers understand the emissions profile of their herds and assist in breeding decisions for producing lower methane offspring.”
“The system feeds data back to Vytelle in Canada and they collate the data to tell you exactly how much each animal has eaten. When the animals have a drink, they are weighed on scales, providing data for their daily weight gain.”
He said AgResearch then use Portable Accumulation Chambers to measure methane emissions during the trial.
Both Angus and Hereford heifers were tested in the trial. The heifers are part of an across-breed Beef Progeny Test at Pamu’s Kepler Farm in Manapouri in Southland.
“Farmers will benefit from the trial because they will be able to extract more value from inputs by having a more accurate feed efficiency Estimated Breeding Value (EBV) as a tool in their toolbox.
“Feed efficiency is a moderately heritable trait, and we know we can make good progress in breeding more efficient animals. Research has shown feed efficiency is corre-
Four other Hereford studs also supported the trial by putting their animals through the feed intake facility and portable chambers to get measures and assist geneticists in collecting a database of information they can use.
This article was compiled using information supplied by Beef + Lamb New Zealand. A video of the trial can be viewed at vimeo.com/1014605947
The Alliance Group is to close its Smithfield meat processing plant in Timaru, South Canterbury.
Sheepmeat, calves and night shift venison seasonal processing ceased at the plant at the end of September, while the venison day shift will continue processing at Smithfield until the end of December when the plant will be shut down.
The decision follows a two-week consultation period with Smithfield staff and unions.
Approximately 600 staff are employed during peak season at the 139-year-old Smithfield plant, which has been owned by Alliance since 1989.
Willie Wiese, chief executive of Alliance, said wherever possible, impacted staff will be offered the opportunity to apply for re-deployment at Alliance’s other processing plants, however the decision means the vast majority of Smithfield employees will be made redundant.
Wiese said closing the plant was an extremely difficult decision for the company.
“Our thoughts are with our people and their families affected by the closure of this plant.
“Smithfield has been a familiar presence in the region for almost 140 years and we know this decision will impact the Timaru community and South Canterbury.
“Unfortunately, we must face the reality of declining sheep processing numbers as a result of land-use change. This has resulted in surplus capacity in our plant network. We cannot maintain excess processing capacity when livestock numbers don’t support it.
“According to our forecasts, we can pro-
cess our farmers’ sheep, deer, and cattle at our four other South Island plants during peak season, without the need for a fifth plant.”
Wiese said the closure will also mean they will have the right scale and a lower cost structure to meet the needs of their farmers and customers.
“I want to acknowledge the feedback from our people over the consultation period. We have made the decision to close the plant with a heavy heart, knowing the significant effect this will have on our people and the community.
“Despite exploring all possible alternatives, we were left with no viable option.
While we know the outcome is not what anyone wanted, we are committed to working through the closure process as respectfully as possible.
“Alliance is grateful for the efforts of local authorities, Venture Timaru, local MPs and support agencies who have rallied around our people over the past few weeks.”
Minister for Agriculture
One year on from the election, and our Government has taken another step to get Wellington out of farming and slash red tape for our hard working primary producers with the passing of the first Resource Management (Freshwater and Other Matters) Amendment Bill.
This new legislation removes costly regulation and focuses on practical solutions so farmers can get on with farming and producing the high-quality, safe produce demanded around the world.
The RMA, as it stood, was too complex, often adding layers of regulation that slowed progress and added compliance costs for farmers and growers. We’ve changed that.
We recognise a productive primary sector is the key to unleashing our economy and letting every Kiwi thrive. That is why we are focused on backing farmers and returning more value to the farm gate, so that farmers can continue to adapt, evolve, and innovate within their businesses for the long term.
Under the first RMA Amendment Bill, farmers will no longer need to prove compliance with the Te Mana o te Wai hierarchy, removing an unnecessary layer of red tape that was adding time and costs to consents. This removes compliance burden and frees farmers up to focus on what they do best running their businesses and contributing to the economy.
We’ve also ensured the new legislation provides practical solutions to stock exclusion and winter grazing regulations. We’ve scrapped the blanket low slope map, which wasn’t working for anyone.
Instead, we’re taking a more flexible, riskbased approach. This means that farmers, in partnership with regional councils, will have more say in determining where stock needs to be excluded based on the unique risks of their land.
Regional councils have reported significant improvements in winter grazing practices already. Farmers are making smarter decisions about where they plant fodder crops and how they manage winter grazing.
By putting control back into the hands of those who know the land best, we’re seeing better environmental outcomes without unnecessary red tape.
For winter grazing, we’ve also removed the requirement for thousands of farmers to get consents just to feed their stock during the colder months. Instead, we’re focusing on good practice and regional plans, which will cut down on costs and let farmers concentrate on their stock’s livelihoods.
Another key part of this Bill is streamlining the resource consent process. We’ve made it easier for councils to approve consents where freshwater conditions improve over time, which will benefit many farmers who need to manage discharges.
We’ve also paused the rollout of Freshwater Farm Plans. These plans, as they were,
would have added more complexity and cost. We’re taking the time to review and make sure they’re fit-for-purpose before moving forward.
Farmers shouldn’t be bogged down by confusing rules that don’t add real value. This Government is committed to ensuring regulations are practical and don’t place an undue burden on the people who feed our nation.
This RMA reform is just the beginning. We’re working hard to ensure that the regulatory framework supports the farming sector rather than hinders it.
The changes we’ve made will come into force as soon as the Bill receives Royal Assent, and I’m confident they will make a real difference for farmers across the country.
‘
Farmers shouldn’t be bogged down by confusing rules that don’t add real value.
These reforms reflect our Government’s commitment to backing the primary sector and making sure that our farmers have the flexibility to adapt and innovate in a way that works for them.
No one knows better than our farmers and grower how to balance productivity with stewardship of the land – – together, we’ll keep New Zealand’s primary sector strong, profitable, and world-leading.
If it is happening, why don’t we know?
A recent news item that said the kiwifruit industry was doing very well with record volumes and prices into Japan got me thinking.
When the Government was formed there were three Ministers of Agriculture named, all with very good CV’s and well known for being action type people.
So, what are they doing, and if they are doing it, why don’t we know about it.
Cast your mind back over the past six months or so and recall what was making our news bulletins and newspapers.
Poverty, crime, education, gangs, politicians making a name for themselves for all the wrong reasons, whether we are all New Zealanders or are we a segmented nation, oil exploration, ownership of the seabed and reducing the public service, but nothing about farming.
The only stories that spring to mind is
Synlait being in financial trouble, but no solid praise for inventing ways to support their suppliers and the export industry.
Storms have hit crops wiped out, but again no follow up on the struggles farmers are facing to replace income, how they have to renew the land to be productive and how it effects our export industry.
Just a passing comment that vege prices will go up in the supermarket because of a lack of supply. One must assume that the media doesn’t think the farming industry is important or even exists.
Obviously, the team at Canterbury Farming is doing all they can to keep the rural folk informed, but to a degree it is aimed at a very narrow market and not the general population. Do the public even know what the resource management act is, or do they even care?
Does the population in our towns and cities care about the plight of our biggest exporters as they buy their imported goods. I would doubt it.
I also wonder if people have any concept of what the international marketing folk do, or are they dazzled by the media saying that top MPs are off on another handshaking trip at the tax payers expense.
I am very sure that the three ministers fighting for the farming industry are doing a fabulous job, but wouldn’t it be nice if their efforts were translated into news that would help close the gap between rural and urban.
Then again, the tall poppy syndrome would kick in as the media seem to attack and kill as a pack rather than nurture the country help take it forward.
New research shows that recreational freshwater fishing contributes millions of dollars to the Mackenzie Basin and that local businesses and communities land the gains.
] by Kent Caddick
Central South Island Fish & Game Council has released the results of a groundbreaking economic impact assessment conducted in partnership with the University of Otago and Meridian Energy.
The assessment highlights the significant economic contribution of the Te Manahuna Mackenzie Basin’s hydro canal fishery to the local economy, with anglers contributing an estimated $13.6 million during the 2022-23 fishing season alone.
Central South Island Fish & Game chief executive Steve McKnight said the research shows the hydro canal fishery, encompassing the Ohau C Canal, Ohau B Canal, Pukaki-Ohau A Canal, and Tekapo Canal, is a vital economic driver for the Mackenzie Basin communities, particularly the townships of Tekapo, Twizel, and Omarama.
“The easy roadside access to salmon fishing, along with the chance to catch trophysized trout in a stunning scenic setting, are key factors behind the fishery’s popularity,” McKnight said.
“Twelve per cent of New Zealand’s Fish & Game managed freshwater angling effort happens right here. This economic impact assessment highlights how important recreational fishing is to sustaining local communities and people. A thriving fishery supports a thriving local economy.”
McKnight said Fish & Game is currently reviewing its canal fishery management strategy and is exploring community-engaged project options to further support the hydro canal fishery.
Brent Lovelock, a researcher from the University of Otago’s Department of Tourism,
said the assessment underscores the potential for further economic gains.
“International visitors to the canal fishery tend to stay longer and spend more per trip than the average domestic angler,” Lovelock said.
“The sustained draw of these international visitors not only has the potential to positively impact the Mackenzie Basin area economically but also benefit New Zealand as a whole by boosting international tourism.
“With the potential for international marketing campaigns that highlight the unique appeal of the hydro canal fisheries, there is optimism about the continued growth of the local economy.”
Key findings:
The Te Manahuna Mackenzie Basin’s hydro canals rank among New Zealand’s top freshwater fishing destinations, attracting 11.9% of Fish & Game managed freshwater angling effort.
The research shows that the hydro canal fishery contributes 3.5% of the total GDP of the Mackenzie Basin region and accounts for 6.7% of the area’s tourism expenditure.
Anglers’ spending was highest in accommodation, comprising approximately 28% of total spending, followed closely by food and beverages at 27.4%.
The analysis also noted that local anglers spent less than visitors from other regions and international visitors tended to spend the most per trip.
Information for this article was supplied by Central South Island Fish & Game. For more go to: www. fishandgame.org.nz
Luxton
I felt defensive when I recently heard about images of non-compliant effluent ponds being taken solely to target farmers for breaching regulations.
Labour spokesperson for Agriculture
It’s important to understand that many of these issues are tied to flooding pressures, which have been exacerbated by recent weather events.
Heavy rainfall can overwhelm effluent management systems, leading to overflow and compliance issues that are often not the result of negligence, but rather demonstrate the challenging environmental conditions that farmers are tackling.
This year has been tough, with added economic challenges such as high input costs, declining output prices, reduced global de-
mand for some of our core products, and increased debt servicing costs due to high interest rates.
Pressures have been compounded by a growing expectation for farmers to fully adopt regenerative practices that enhance the environment.
This includes radical improvements of biodiversity, freshwater health, animal welfare, and significantly reducing emissions, pollution, and other ecological impacts.
New Zealand is the only developed country without formal subsidies or price supports for farmers, and it’s a demanding job to ensure profitability while balancing environmental expectations. The stakes are particularly
high for those managing single farms where there is less flexibility to trial different farming systems.
However, with National cancelling almost every climate policy brought in by the Labour Government and cutting research and development programs, we risk further disconnect between urban expectations and rural realities.
At a time when we need to foster understanding and collaboration, we must build bridges, and not tear them down.
Farmers are the backbone of New Zealand, and Labour knows this. They play a crucial role in feeding the nation by producing 70% to 80% of our domestic food, they con-
tribute significantly to our export economy, and they are essential to the vitality of rural communities through support of employment and ancillary businesses.
We must pave the way for innovative policy that genuinely supports our farmers and develop solutions that balance environmental goals with the practicalities of farming life.
Supporting meaningful change will take consistent conversation, trust, and time, and I’m committed to working alongside the farming community to flip the narrative, and foster resilience in our agricultural sector.
It’s a call for a shift in perspective to support farmers and foster resilience in the agricultural sector.
] with Steve Abel
] Green Party Spokesperson
] for Agriculture
From the air, Stockton coal mine is a Mordor-like landscape. Rare ecology has been crushed into terraces, access roads, exposed coal and dismal ponds. The mine’s edge is a vivid boundary between man-made destruction and dense deep-green forest.
Before being razed, Stockton was the closest ecological relative of the neighbouring sandstone plateau of Denniston, a combination of impermeable rock, high rainfall, and shallow acidic soil generates a rich diversity of life that clings on and flourishes in these harsh conditions.
Traditionally the West Coast coal seam was accessed by tunnel, a risky method that meant generational tragedies including mostrecently the Pike River disaster. The open-cut mining method however sees the total removal of 30 metres of sandstone “overburden” to access the coal beneath. The fundamental geology which defines the stark wonder of the plateau ecology is thus destroyed.
On Denniston, decades-old trees and shrubs, twisted low by the wind and suppressed into bonsai form by the lack of soil, eke out their existence in the swampy stone landscape. Great spotted kiwi (roroa), rare lizards, and the giant carnivorous powelliphanta snail inhabit. Newly discovered species – including the Avatar day-flying moth – exist only in this one zone of a few hectares on the whole earth.
The Coast was once described to me as a “resource colony” that has been endlessly buffeted by the boom and bust of gold and coal mining, forestry, fishing, and other extractive industries. The isolation and constant rain that manifests the primordial forest has also shaped the stoic affable sceptical disposition of the locals.
Years ago, I lived near Carters Beach with a ragged cohort of forest activists fighting against the state loggers who were plucking the ancient eyes from the forest with a five tonne Russian helicopter. I learnt that a Coaster could openly slander you as ‘feral greenie scum’ and yet share a Miners Dark beer at the pub with you at the same time. Green co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick didn’t
hesitate at the opportunity to visit the Coast last month. If we are to address the existential threat of climate change, every country needs to phase out use of all fossil fuels, including coal. That prospect is a challenge for West Coasters who rely on the industry for their livelihoods.
Chlöe, Lan Pham, myself and Scott Willis travelled to Westport. We met with E Tu delegates representing miners working at Stockton and spent the following day exploring the Denniston Plateau. We also had glimpses of beach and podocarp forests, and met
the community resisting the Barrytown Flats sand mine as well as Development West Coast representatives.
The challenge we all face is finding ways to provide meaningful work and income for people currently dependent on carbon-intensive industries that drive extreme weather events – including the recent inundations of Westport and Greymouth towns.
The prize is creation of reliable livelihoods for Coasters that don’t fuel species extinction and extreme weather – they have a right to that.
In 1999 the local drooping rimu and fineleaved beech were spared: native forest logging was stopped and 137,000 hectares of forest was gazetted as conservation estate. A fund of $92 million in 2001 established Development West Coast whose work continues – though not all of it sustainable. We had frank conversations with local miners. We won’t see eye to eye on everything, no one is promising easy solutions here, but there are necessary things we must face together to achieve a just transition to a low carbon world for the good of us all.
The relentless passion and perseverance of Te Whare Wanaka o Aoraki Lincoln University students were recognised for their sporting and social achievements at the university’s annual Blues and Golds Awards ceremony recently.
The University has been awarding Blues to celebrate sporting excellence since the 1940s. Many New Zealand sporting greats have received Blues Awards including All Black Jack Goodhue, Black Stick Olivia Merry and Black Fern Kendra Cocksedge.
In recent years, Lincoln students have worked selflessly to give back to their community. The University recognised the need to celebrate these students, which led to the introduction of the Golds Awards for cultural and service excellence.
Nine students were recipients of Golds Awards and 31 of Blues. There were also supreme awards for those students who stood out for their excellent and passionate work.
Samantha Dryden was awarded the Supreme Gold for Service Excellence Person of the Year for the sustainability work she has been championing around the community.
She has been a leader for change as the Lincoln University Students’ Association (LUSA) Sustainability Representative and as president of President of Lincoln Environmental Sustainability Society.
The Supreme Gold for Group Voluntary Contribution of the Year went to Kaiwhakarite Tauira Student Buddy Programme, a group of six volunteers committed to making students feel safe and comfortable at Lincoln.
Charlie Morrison was awarded the Supreme Blue for Sports Person of the Year for his tremendous efforts representing New Zealand and Canterbury in hockey.
As a member of the Black Sticks, Morrison competed at the Paris Olympics this year. He has also excelled with the New Zealand Under 21 team and was named FIH Player of
the Tournament and New Zealand Under-21 Hockey Player of the Year.
The Supreme Blue for Sports Team of the Year was awarded to the Lincoln University Women’s Basketball Team following their incredible victory in two national championships.
The team took first place at the UTSNZ 3x3 basketball nationals in Rolleston and at the UTSNZ 5x5 basketball nationals in Lower Hutt. The team has also qualified for back-to-
back FISU World University 3x3 tournaments.
To date, they’ve won six out of the eight total 3x3 national tournaments and four out of the seven 5x5 tournaments held in New Zealand.
Vice-Chancellor, Professor Grant Edwards congratulated the nominees on the fantastic work which led to their recognition.
“Your achievements reflect your stamina, perseverance and passion to work for long-term goals, maintaining your effort often over many years despite adversity and
plateaus in progress. Take time to reflect on your achievements and on how you have given great pride and happiness to others.”
Edwards also acknowledged the coaches, trainers and mentors who guided the nominees in their journeys.
“In supporting the achievements of your student colleagues, you have also brought great credit to the University and have contributed to our renowned student experience.”
Vegetation falling on lines is one of the leading causes of power outages on our network. Visit oriongroup.co.nz/trees for tree regulations, advice and to find out about your responsibilities as a property owner.
We recommend using trained professionals and if you have any questions, call us anytime on 0800 363 9898. We’re here to help.
As you may be aware, we’ve had some changes at Canterbury Regional Council (Environment Canterbury), and myself and Councillor Deon Swiggs have been appointed as the new Chair and Deputy Chair.
] by Craig Pauling ] ECan chair
For me, it’s not a completely new role, having previously stepped in as Acting Chair, but I wanted to let you know a bit more about my background and my priorities for the coming months.
Firstly, I consider it an honour and a privilege to be leading our Council, and I’m looking forward to working alongside Deon. We have actually already been working together as we both represent the Opuna/Christchurch West Ward. I also acknowledge Peter Scott as our previous Chair and the good working relationship I continue to have with him.
While I was born and raised in Otautahi/ Christchurch, I have a solid understanding of the rural sector, in part due to my history in Resource Management work, and also through the connections to my marae, many of which are based in rural areas.
A bit about me: I’m a graduate of Lincoln University and have iwi affiliations to Ngai Ta-
hu and Ngati Mutunga. I have 20 years’ experience in environmental policy, research and consultancy and am a qualified RMA hearings commissioner. I am also heavily involved in community based ecological restoration efforts through the work of Te Ara Kakariki and other organisations that I am a member of.
I appreciate that for many farmers, their minds will be on the intended changes to the Resource Management Act Amendment Bill recently announced by Central Government, relating to plans for the management of freshwater.
At the time of writing, our Councillors are yet to consider or discuss these proposed changes in the context of our current work programmes. I will update you on how these programmes are affected as soon as that korero has taken place.
I know there have been some issues around the development of the revised Regional Policy Statement (RPS). If it does proceed, it’s important to note it is a high-level document that gives direction to other plans – but that has no rules.
Rather than being aimed at restricting farming activities, it has some aspirational aspects to it and fills a few gaps that aren’t covered adequately in our existing RPS (which is now more than 10 years old) including around flood protection and hazard management and prevention.
It also provides an opportunity for a more joined-up approach to urban and rural development.
Furthermore, we have an ambitious work programme for the next 10 years, which received good support from our Councillors and the community alike through our recent LongTerm Plan. I am proud of that outcome and
now we just need to get on with it.
This includes work around river resilience and looking at a better way of managing our catchments while dealing with issues like funding, flooding, gravel management, biodiversity and biosecurity all together.
Deputy Chair Deon Swiggs acknowledges rural challenges
It’s a real privilege to be appointed Deputy Chair, and it’s not a responsibility I take lightly.
I formerly served as Naval Officer and then later as a Christchurch City Councillor. I’ve since established several horticultural businesses, focusing on sustainable land use and innovative farming practices.
Like Chair Pauling, I also have strong connections to the farming community – through my work in the agricultural sector and ongoing engagement with our rural stakeholders. I want to acknowledge the pressures being felt across the primary sector, including the Smithfield closure. The impact this will have on employees, their families and the wider South Canterbury community is top of my mind.
I’m committed to working alongside our farming community as we navigate through these challenges.
I know it’s a difficult time for many, but I want farmers to know the work they do is appreciated, and I’m here to listen and support where I can.
The New Zealand economy remains in a considerable slump. Economic growth in the June quarter was negative, showing the economy contracting – 0.5% year on year. Per capita growth paints a grimmer picture, with a decline of – 2.7% year on year.
nalled further interest rate cuts from here. Markets are pricing the OCR to fall back to around 3% by August 2025.
sion (when economic growth falls for two consecutive quarters) for the third time in two years.
Business insolvencies are rising, and many households are struggling to keep up with debt payments. The New Zealand labour market continues to weaken, with the unemployment rate rising to 4.6% as at June 2024, and expected to rise higher in coming months.
Headline inflation dropped back to 3.3% year on year in June 2024 and dropped again to 2.2% year on year for the September quarter. With future inflation appearing more manageable, the RBNZ cut the Official Cash Rate (OCR) down from 5.25% in August; then reduced again to 4.75% in October and has sig-
We are seeing a positive lift in business and consumer confidence as interest rates move lower, but it will take time for this to feed through to a meaningful lift in economic demand.
Meanwhile, bank mortgage and deposit rates have already shifted meaningfully lower.
While in recent years favourable interest rates on term deposits and savings accounts have encouraged some to park their money in the bank, the environment is now turning.
As interest rates decline, keeping funds in the bank will soon become less appealing. If you have cash sitting in on-call or short-dated term deposits, this could be the time to consider alternative options.
US elections potential for more volatility
While equity markets have experienced more volatility in recent months, the odd bump in
‘The odd bump in the road is entirely normal, and shouldn’t concern investors who have a longterm focus.
the road is entirely normal, and shouldn’t concern investors who have a long-term focus.
In the month or so ahead, we could see the US election add to this volatility. During these periods of heightened political focus, markets typically tend to overemphasise the importance of politics on the market’s performance over the long term.
However, it’s worth remembering that, historically, markets have done well under both
Republican and Democrat leadership, including the last eight years under both Presidents Trump and Biden. Moving your portfolio around in response to media headlines is almost always detrimental to your wealth.
Beyond the noise, we expect an environment of a robust US economy, declining inflation, falling interest rates, and (hopefully) an improving outlook in Europe, New Zealand, and elsewhere, to be a constructive outlook for investors.
This article was prepared as at 30 September 2024 and provides market commentary for the three-month period ending on that date. To discuss your investment options please contact Andrew Wyllie, who is an Investment Adviser and Forsyth Barr’s Christchurch Manager. Andrew 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.
Surfing for Farmers is coming to a beach near you this summer. Weekly sessions starting from the dates here :
Bayleys is proud to be a national sponsor of Surfing for Farmers, which offers you and your staff the opportunity to get off the farm for a couple of hours each week during this busy time of year.
Join the team during the summer months at four locations in and around Canterbury.
Surfboards, wetsuits and coaching is provided, followed by a BBQ, cold beers and a debrief. There is no charge, so no excuse not to join.
Follow us on Facebook @surfingforfarmers surfingforfarmers.com
GORE BAY
December 4, 6.30 pm
Lizzie Vincent | 027 808 0496
lizzie.vincent@fmg.co.nz
Max Murray | max.murray@rabobank.com
SUMNER BAY
Sumner Beach, by the ‘Rock’
December 3, 6.15 pm
Kate Butterfield | 021 184 0673
kate.butterfield@southbase.co.nz
HICKORY BAY
November 20, 5.30 pm
Kristin Savage | 021 680 190 kristin@hickorybay.co.nz
OAMARU Kakanui
December 4, 6 pm
Hannah Green | hannah.green@lic.co.nz
/ Commercial /
/
It is amazing how one thing leads to another in our world.
] by Rob Cope Williams
As you know I am very excited about ‘Wiggy’ and his team with their ‘Lean on a gate and talk to a mate’, for me it is 11 out of 10 to help farmers who are naturally isolated and even though they have a partner and family, there is a lack of outside social contact.
Totally independently of that, I wrote a story for the city newspapers saying that in the city there must be a lot of folks who are isolated from family and friends for what ever reason, and that my Croquet club is inviting them to grasp the nettle and swallow hard to overcome the natural shyness and come to an open day.
The result has been that several people have done just that and have popped in and had a go. All have said they loved the expo-
sure to new people, the game and being out of the house.
So, if you and your partner feel as though you are feeling isolated, lonely, and yes, I know that is a harsh word to use, but think about it, take a moment to think about an outside interest.
Rugby and netball are fine for youngsters, and golf takes a lot of time. Service clubs are great but apart from working bees and monthly meetings, you are not
expanding your circles.
The other thing I want to suggest is to break into a new group, but don’t fold up after the first attempt.
One of the new members for our croquet club said she had been to several clubs playing things such a pétanque only to find that the atmosphere was against welcoming new players, she left feeling unwanted, but five minutes after walking into the Edgeware croquet club, she felt part of it.
‘ even
two afternoons a week swinging a croquet mallet may be more of a tonic than anything you can get from your chemist.
My club, as the name suggests, is in the city central area, but she is now focused on coming in from Rangiora to play. As she says, it is 20 minutes on the motorway. We are very lucky having people like the ‘Lean on a gate and talk to a mate’ team, and sports clubs who are there to support others without even knowing they are.
Even two afternoons a week swinging a croquet mallet may be more of a tonic than anything you can get from your chemist.
I am writing this early on a Wednesday morning. Overnight I have had feedback from clients that I am helping with osteoarthritis. One reported real improvement with sore toes and his partner with much less knee pain.
Over the weekend a client who has booked in hip replacement surgery. We put in place a temporary programme to make her more comfortable while she waited for surgery.
She reported that most of the hip pain had gone and no longer needed daily painkillers. I have got to the stage that I am genuinely surprised that people cannot get noticeable improvements in joints affected by osteoarthritis.
I am often asked whether nutritional therapy can restore lost or damaged cartilage. My answer is that in most cases what is lost cannot be restored. However, we can certainly help retain current cartilage. The better question is whether we can do anything about pain and loss of mobility.
Most of the discomfort from osteoarthritis comes from inflammation. Cartilage has no nerves. We cannot feel cartilage loss.
What we can feel is the inflammation generated by joint capsule immune cells in response to cartilage loss. We can al-
so feel bones rubbing together where cartilage has completely gone.
My main initial goal is to reduce inflammation in the joint capsule. I have spoken to another client that reported 50% less knee swelling after only a couple of months. This translated to less pain and more mobility.
There is much we can achieve through diet. Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet underpins what we do through supplements. Initially I like to add 1600mg of high-grade chondroitin sulphate, 1600mg of the latest non-shellfish glucosamine and 400mg of 100% water soluble curcumin extract.
To this we add sufficient Omega 3 to get 700-1000mg daily of EPA, the antiinflammatory component in fish oils. We continue this for six weeks when we review progress.
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.
What is Bettaflex?
• Bettaflex is a joint support formula to promote healthy joint cartilage function.
• Bettaflex has 400mg (per capsule) of high-grade avian chondroitin, 400mg of glucosamine and 100mg of BioSolve® bioavailable Curcumin (from turmeric).
• Try Bettaflex for 3 months and see for yourself.
How can Bettaflex help?
• Chondroitin and glucosamine are building blocks of cartilage.
$99.95 for 3 bottles free freight or 1 bottle for $36.95 plus $5.99 postage
60 Capsules per Bottle
• Supplementation with correct levels can support healthy cartilage function and cartilage repair processes.
• New BioSolve® bioavailable curcumin helps joint function while gentle on the stomach.
• Research indicates that chondroitin is highly effective at 800mg daily.
John Arts comments:
“My latest Bettaflex formula includes BioSolve® bioavailable curcumin for faster results. The normal dose is 2 capsules daily but I recommend an initial higher dose for 1-3 bottles to saturate joint tissue.”
John Arts, Founder, Abundant Health
There’s a big difference in efficacy between a slug bait with a coating, and a bait that isn’t just skin deep.
] Advertorial supplied by UPL NZ Ltd
Ash Pace, UPL NZ Ltd. Regional Manager Central South Island, says Metarex Inov doesn’t skimp. “With Metarex Inov, unlike coated bait, the potent, fast-acting active (Metaldehyde) goes right through to the core,” Ash says.
“In contrast, coated baits only have the active on the outside. The gap between the two kinds of bait is huge: 40 grams of active per kg for Metarex Inov, compared with just 18 grams for coated granules.”
He says that also means savings for growers and farmers by enabling effective cover in fewer passes, using less fuel, and saving on labour.
“With Metarex Inov the application rate is 3-5 kg/ha. With coated bait, it’s 10-15 kg/ha. That’s a lot of extra refills. If you can get things done more effectively and, in less time, that’s one more job you can tick off.”
Ash says Metarex Inov has a consistent shape.
“Again, that’s not like coated bait, which is irregular. Metarex Inov has excellent ballistic properties, so its spread is regular and predictable.”
He says he often reminds farmers that while they’re asleep, slugs are busy undoing their day’s work. “Nighttime is when slugs shift into high gear.”
Metarex Inov is super-attractive to slugs and its palatability makes it more than a
match for slugs. In fact, research show that slugs will actively choose to feed on Metarex Inov over seedlings.
Colzactive® technology is responsible for that palatability. It was created by the research and development team from French company De Sangosse, the global leaders in slug and snail bait technology. Colzactive comprises specially selected oil seed rape extracts. The De Sangosse R&D team evaluated 20 different plant species, identifying 50 potential molecules for their attractiveness to slugs, and ultimately selecting two molecules slugs found irresistible.
Slugs are a major pest in brassicas, maize, cereals, forage crops and pasture with the potential to cost the economy millions of dollars.
“There is a lot at stake. No-one can afford to have a spring or autumn sowing fail. Slugs’ ability to cause serious crop damage and failure – is just a fraction behind grass grub,” Ash says.
“Any slug, or slug damage, you see is just the tip of the iceberg. They are active year-round though population pressure and damage typically peak in autumn and spring. The overwhelming persistence of their life cycle makes them a constant threat.
“Metarex Inov gives you critical protection, especially when you’ve got seedlings coming out of the ground, and you’re looking to get them off to the best start. There’s
Research show that slugs will actively choose to feed on Metarex Inov over seedlings.
also the option of Ironmax® Pro, which has the same benefits of Metarex Inov, and is BioGro certified, and IPM friendly.”
Metarex Inov and Ironmax Pro are manufactured with the finest durum wheat using a unique wet manufacturing process. The all-weather baits are very rainfast and con-
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tinue to perform in the damp conditions that the slugs thrive in without deterioration.
Talk to your local technical representative for more details on metarex Inov and Ironmax Pro or contact Ash Pace, UPL NZ Regional Manager Central South Island at 021 987 735.
Disease management agency OSPRI has announced a funding package commitment for the Rural Support Trust, a charity they consider critical to the success of their work.
] by Kent Caddick
The Rural Support Trust offers one to one support to those struggling with the pressures of life on the farm. As such, they are a vital safety net in the rural community, and their team of local experienced people will be relied on as the sector confronts tough economic conditions.
To provide support when and where it is needed, resourcing is critical, and while partially funded by the Ministry of Primary Industries, the Trust relies on additional charitable donations. Recognising this and valuing the Trust’s support around the impact of its disease management programmes, OSPRI recently committed to annual donations over the next three years.
“The impact of disease on farmers’ wellbeing is well documented, and we experience first-hand the stress that comes to bear on farming families when their livestock become infected with TB or M.bovis,” OSPRI’s North Island General Manager for Service Delivery Helen Thoday said.
“So having a partner like The Rural Support Trust, often involving someone who’s been through it too, to help, is an important part of recovery”.
She said as a not for profit itself, OSPRI understands just how important financial assurance is.
“We’ve worked with the Rural Support Trusts previously, providing funding to ensure they could meet community needs during the Hawkes Bay TB outbreak.
“When taking on the surveillance of M.bovis last year, we also continued the funding, started by MPI, to support those farmers impacted by the disease. So, it’s gratifying to make a commitment of ongoing donations to
Support: oSPrI’s North Island General manager Helen Thoday says the rural Support Trust is critical to the success of their work.
support farmers dealing with infected herds, or any personal difficulty really.”
Chair of Taranaki Rural Support Amanda Jordan has also been a long-time defender of biosecurity and continues this work with one of OSPRI’s farmer committees.
As a 5th generation jersey cow farmer, Jordan and her family have battled through plenty of challenges, and she still remembers the impact of TB, at one stage managing three of the seven herds infected in Taranaki.
“We’ve an amazing coordinator, and an important part of her work is listening to the caller carefully, and then finding the right willing person in the community,” Jordan said.
“If we’re concerned about welfare, we’ll find support quickly and close by, but often it’s about someone with the right experiences or background for a situation”.
Fourteen Rural Support Trusts operate across regions throughout New Zealand, and then there is a national office providing coordination to ensure ground support remains widely accessible to those who need it.
“I’m hugely proud of each Trusts’ efforts,
there’s real comfort in having someone to walk with you during tough times, so providing those rural connections is such an important part of it,” General Manager of New Zealand Rural Support Trust Maria Shanks said.
“We’re lucky to have a collection of principle sponsors and partners and pleased to have OSPRI’s support as they also work amongst our communities.”
Information for this article was supplied by the New Zealand Rural Support Trust and OSPRI> To find out more go to: www.ospri.co.nz or www.rural-support. org.nz
It’s been a really busy few months for the owners of party hire company Event Hire after reaching an agreement with Canterbury A&P Association to put on a revamped version of the annual New Zealand Agricultural Show.
The Association pulled the plug on the 2024 event earlier this year citing financial concerns.
However, the Association reached an agreement with the Christchurch City Council which alleviated some of those worries and a new board was elected.
Then in stepped brothers Phil and Nick Anderson who run Event Hire which has had a relationship with the Show over a number of years providing marquees to trade vendors and entertainment facilities as part of their party hire business.
“Going into Cup and Show Week without the Show seemed a bit odd and we thought surely we could get something together to put on a show in some form,” Phil Anderson said.
“So we had that in the back of our minds, and when we had suppliers and businesses who have been involved in the show encouraging us to get something up and running this year, that reassured us that we should move forward with the idea.”
Phil and Nick then sat down with the Canterbury A&P Association to see what they could come with, and that turned out to be the renamed Christchurch Show.
Phil said with only a few months to put a show together it was important that they could work well together with the board and show committee.
“It was quite a fluid progression and with the new board the association had put in place it was quite refreshing.
“The main focus for all of us was that we wanted to put on a show. It was great working with the board and obvious everyone had their hearts in the right place, so it was just about making it work this year.”
The agreement between the two in essence means the Association will take care of the livestock judging and competitions, while Event Hire handles the vendors and entertainment.
As part of getting that mix right a decision was made to include a Saturday into the time frame. Phil said having the show extended to Saturday will encourage and enable many from outside of Christchurch to be involved.
“It’s about getting back to the good old days by creating a bit of hype around the event which also means keeping the admission pricing realistic. It’s key to get a good mix of the rural and town as that makes the show so popular.
“Long term we would love to continue to be involved in running the show, but this year was about putting together an experience for the public and the trade vendors.”
The Christchurch Show will take place over Thursday, Friday and Saturday (14th to 16th November) of Show Week at the Association’s show grounds on Curletts Road. Entry is $10 for children and $20 for adults.
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
We Kiwis are an inventive lot. Lord Ernest Rutherford was the first to split the atom, and basically invented nuclear physics.
Other well-known inventors are Sir William Hamilton – inventor of the Hamilton Jet boat, A J. Hackett who invented the sport of bungy jumping, and Sir Peter Jackson, Sir Richard Taylor and Jamie Selkirk, founders of Weta Workshops whose pioneering techniques have entranced movie goers everywhere.
Kiwis also invented the first aeroplane capable of landing on snow, the tranquiliser gun, disposable syringes, a spiral hair pin and the blokart. Richard Pearse may have built the first heavier-than-air plane to fly.
One of the ways inventors can profit financially from their inventions is by securing appropriate Intellectual Property protection.
Society recognises that creativity needs both incentives and rewards, so the law has
developed a range of mechanisms to suit differing situations.
For inventors, the State strikes a bargain: in return for teaching others how to carry out an invention, a 20-year monopoly (a patent) is granted. During that time, only the owner of the patent is allowed to make or use the invention, and to sell products made that are covered by it.
Traders with a distinctive brand, which can be words, a colour scheme or even a sound ( as in the Harley Davidson motorcycle running sound), can register these as Trade Marks, and get protection against imitators releasing products that confuse or deceive customers. Registrations are good for 10 years and can be renewed potentially indefinitely.
Artists who create stories, poems, software, films, music, sculptures etc automatically get copyright protection, by virtue of the act of creating or publishing their works. Copyrights prevent others from copying the works and can be licensed and sold.
The protection includes being able to stop others from making three-dimensional objects out of two-dimensional drawings. Copyright can last for many years after the death of the author.
Plant breeders are able to obtain Plant Variety Rights for new distinct, stable and homogeneous plants (which do not include
algae, bacteria or fungi). A PVR grants the right to produce for sale and to sell reproductive material of the variety in New Zealand. For some types of plants, producing reproductive material of a protected variety for the commercial production of harvested material is also covered.
Rights last for 20 or 25 years, depending on the plants involved. Plant protection can be very important to New Zealand’s largely agricultural economy.
At heart, the Intellectual Property system balances a return to the creator from the benefits of a short-term monopoly, with the benefits gained by the whole community when the creation passes into the public domain, and becomes free for all to use, especially as the building blocks for the next wave of creativity.
The professional staff at PL Berry & Associates are skilled at advising creators of all type of Intellectual Property on how to best protect their rights, how to develop profitable income-earning strategies for their Intellectual Property, and on how to defend them against interlopers and pirates.
Contacts for PL Berry & Associates: Phone 03 366 2761; 277 Kilmore Street, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand or P.O. Box 1250, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand, or go to the website: www.plberry. co.nz
If you’ve never been on a wildlife Safari you probably can’t imagine what a ‘game-drive’ is like. It’s what people go to Africa for.
] by John Cooney
Come early morning or mid-afternoon, you pile into your waiting 4WD and bounce off across the rugged wildlife park. The roof is up, so you can get better photos. And your African driver’s already scanning the landscape, looking for clues.
Words can’t really describe the sights, sounds, smells and silences that await you: sunburnt savannas stretching to the horizon; lush woodlands swarming with birdlife; and the sheer abundance of free-to-roam wildlife.
Sometimes you’re surrounded by wildebeests, zebras and gazelles. But big cats prefer their privacy.
Often the first hint that “something’s out there” is a tail hanging down out of a tree (an elusive leopard?), or a tiny upright shape on a far-off anthill (a watchful cheetah?), or a camouflaged shadow in the long grass (a hungry lion stalking his prey?).
And you never know what else is waiting, just around the corner.
Want to join us? Phone 0800 323 333, and download our Safari InfoPack and booking form at www.midlifemadness.tours.
Safari facts:
Kiwi Hosts: John & Robyn Cooney, Midlife Madness Tours.
Departure Day: Wed June 25, 2025.
Length of Tour: 20 wild days.
All-Up Price: from $22,650 pp share twin.
Includes: airfares, Dubai stopover, daily game-drives, luxury lodges, all meals, tips, etc.
Deposit: $4,000 pp, due with booking.
Final Payment: due April 14, 2025.
A ‘game-drive’ gets you up close and personal with African wildlife.
Having a well-designed and constructed effluent storage facility will save you time and money.
] Article supplied by DairyNZ
The key is good planning and working with the right people. The benefits of a well-designed storage system include increased flexibility around irrigating, effective utilisation of nutrients and water, reduced risk of effluent non-compliance, and environmental protection.
Lined ponds and above ground tanks are the two options available when choosing an effluent storage system for your farm.
Above ground tanks
Pros: Can usually be installed all year round; Little costs associated with earthworks; Not significantly affected by water table.
Cons: Can be more expensive than lined ponds; May require a building consent from district council; Some size restriction on what is available commercially.
Lined ponds
Pros: Less cost than above ground options; Can be less intrusive on the farm; More accommodating of shape and design; No size restriction.
Cons: Wider range of costs depending on lining options and earthworks needed; Installation can be weather affected especially for clay lined ponds in some wetter parts of the country.
A well designed storage pond is sealed to avoid leakage to groundwater, allows for on-
going operation and maintenance, and is appropriately sized for the volume of effluent produced now and in the foreseeable future, and is compliant with regional and district council and Building Act requirements. Liners can be formed from compacted clay, concrete or specifically manufactured materials such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), or rubber (EPDM).
Compacted clay liners
Pros: May have suitable clay on site for pond construction.
Choices: Above ground tanks or lined ponds are the two main alternatives for farm based effluent storage.
Cons: Requires soil testing by a professional Requires technical expertise to compact clay correctly to achieve sealing requirement; Cracking can appear when ponds are empty, risk of leaking; Warranties may be more difficult to obtain; Potentially high cost if importing clay from off-site; May require periodic re-lining of the pond after cleaning; Not favoured by all councils, you need to check first.
Concrete liners
Pros: Less earthwork preparation required
than with clay liners; Flexible to withstand ground movement; Withstands mechanical damage.
Cons: Warranties may be difficult to obtain, engineering expertise is essential; Moderate to high cost.
Synthetic liners
Pros: Good range of liners available; Good warranties available; Installation allows for gas and ground water dissipation.
Cons: Some variation in quality of synthetics on the market; Moderate to high cost.
]
Imagine transforming your dairy farm’s waste into a goldmine of savings and productivity.
Advertorial supplied by Nevada
Sounds too good to be true? It’s not. By changing how you view and use farm dairy effluent (FDE), you can boost your farm’s profits and improve soil health.
Soil biology: The hidden gem beneath your feet
Let’s dive into soil biology – the fascinating world beneath your boots. Your soil is teeming with life, from bacteria and fungi to earthworms and arthropods. These tiny workers play a vital role in maintaining soil health and fertility. When you apply effluent to your pasture, you’re feeding these organisms, enhancing their activity, and, in turn, boosting your soil’s health and productivity.
The power of effluent
Think of effluent not as a waste product but as a liquid treasure chest. It’s packed with nutrients that can significantly improve your soil’s biology. Healthier soil means better pasture production now and for years to come. Plus, spreading effluent across your entire farm amplifies these benefits, ensuring all your paddocks get a share of this natural fertiliser.
Breaking old habits
In New Zealand, it’s common for farmers to spread effluent close to the cowshed due to pump capacity, power availability, or the length of the irrigation mainline. But over-irrigating nearby paddocks can harm animal health and miss out on the full benefits of effluent. By spreading it across
your entire farm, you can reduce or even eliminate the need for synthetic fertilisers.
Real savings, real results
Here’s where it gets exciting: One large dairy farmer in the Hawkes Bay has slashed over $200,000 per year on fertiliser costs by spreading effluent using a slurry tanker. Imagine what those savings could do for your operation. Utilising FDE effectively is not just an environmentally sound choice – it’s a smart financial move.
The slurry tanker advantage
One of the best ways to spread effluent evenly across your farm is with a slurry tanker. These versatile machines can handle everything from heavy slurry to more liquid effluent. They allow for low application rates and provide proof of placement, ensuring you’re applying nutrients precisely where they’re needed.
Transform your farm’s future
It’s time to shift your mindset: Effluent isn’t waste, it’s a valuable resource. By leveraging this natural fertiliser, you can enhance your soil, cut costs, and boost your farm’s sustainability. Healthier soils lead to more productive pastures and, ultimately, a more profitable farm.
Ready to see these benefits on your farm? Have a chat with our team to discuss how we can help improve your farm’s profitability. Call us today on 0800 464 393 and start transforming your effluent into gold.
When you apply effluent to your pasture, you’re feeding living organisms, enhancing their activity, and, in turn, boosting your soil’s health and productivity.
When spread over land and applied in timely fashion, dairy effluent can save farmers thousands of dollars a year in fertiliser.
] Article supplied by ] Waikato Regional Council
Farm dairy effluent is a natural, dilute liquid fertiliser. It contains nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), sulphur (S) and trace elements that you’d normally pay for to have applied to pasture.
Think of dairy effluent as a resource, not waste. The average dairy herd (244 cows) produces the same amount of effluent as a town with about 3400 people.
Protect waterways on your farm by:
• not irrigating within 50 metres of a water supply
• leaving a 20m+ strip of non-irrigated land next to all watercourses
• ensuring that spray drift isn’t getting into nearby streams or rivers
Soil acts as a living filter and treats the applied effluent by changing it:
• physically – filtering out effluent particles, breaking them down and incorporating them into the soil structure
• chemically – absorbing nutrients and making them available to plants
• biologically – harmful micro-organisms (such as bacteria) present in the effluent are retained by the soil, or are killed when the effluent dries or when they become exposed to sunlight.
However, don’t apply too much as soil can only filter so much effluent at a time. It’s important to match the irrigation depth to the capability of the soil.
Land with impeded or artificial drainage,
high or rising water tables or slopes of greater than 7 degrees have a higher risk from over-application, and therefore application depths should be adjusted accordingly to reflect soil and weather conditions.
Too much effluent can:
• kill pasture – especially where effluent has ‘ponded’ on the soil surface
• pollute nearby streams and rivers –where it runs off paddocks into waterways.
• pollute ground water – by seeping too deep into the soil
• be an ineffective use of nutrients – by seeping past the root zone before the plant can utilise it
Although effluent contains many nutrients which can impact on your farm management, it is the environmental effects of nitrogen that determine how much you can irrigate onto land.
• Too much nitrogen can reduce pasture performance and reduce water quality in neighbouring waterways.
• If you know exactly how much nitrogen is in effluent, you can work out the most effective application rates for your land.
• Each effluent application must not be more than 25 millimetres deep. How deep you irrigate effluent over an area will depend on how much nitrogen you want to apply.
• Remember to cover water troughs when irrigating effluent.
EFFLUENT APPLICATION BY
ONFARM DATA CAN
Monitor, control and record this for you.
Pump start / stop I Area applied
Application rate I Fail safe systems
Exclusion zones over tracks, waterways and more
Direct injection, underslung (single or multiple zones) tower guns? GIVE US A CALL
ANDREW 022 183 2018 andrew@onfarmdata.com
021 223 8666
Does your effluent pond leak? How can you prove this? Most owners of dairy effluent storage ponds believe that their ponds don’t leak.
]
Advertorial supplied by Aqualinc
This is understandable, especially where they have been synthetically lined. However, the need to prove this is mounting.
The need for proof is driven by the requirement to run the farm at Good Management Practice (GMP). To meet GMP, storage facilities must be sealed and maintained to ensure containment of effluent.
The catalyst for requiring these tests is not always the regional council. It can also be the irrigation scheme or dairy company that ask for the tests to be carried out.
Although there may be a belief that the ponds won’t be leaking, without doing a test you can’t be sure.
This is reminiscent of the early days of introducing Farm Environment Plans (FEP), where some people would question the need for these, given that they considered themselves to be a good operator.
The response often given was that it was no longer sufficient to be a good operator, you now must prove that this is the case. This can be done via the FEP and auditing process, and with effluent storage ponds this can only be done by appropriate testing.
Testing needs to be accurate. In Canterbury the criteria for storage being a permitted activity is that leakage cannot exceed 1mm per day.
In a dynamic environment where there may be evaporation, wind, pressure changes, rain, inflows into the pond etc. it’s not easy
Data is everything: Without doing a test you can’t be sure your dairy effluent storage pond isn’t leaking.
to measure and have the confidence that the results will have the required accuracy.
Aqualinc have recently upgraded their pond testing equipment which has increased the degree of accuracy. It has also made it much easier to set up and dismantle, which saves time.
They have been busy recently carrying out tests, with many being done during the summer months. In the past it’s been a common misconception that these tests must be carried out when the dairy shed is not being used as this prevents in-flows during the test.
However, with the equipment, process and analysis Aqualinc use there is no reason that the tests can’t be done at any time of year.
For more information or to book your test call Aqualinc on 03 964 6521.
Living on the rugged West Coast of the South Island hasn’t limited Primary ITO’s Shannon Gordon from taking on a national manager role well away from big city life.
Based in Greymouth, Shannon recently stepped into the role of National Manager for the Agriculture and Horticulture team at Primary ITO. She has worked in the organisation for over 10 years, starting out as a Training Adviser in March 2014, visiting learners on dairy farms on the West Coast.
Since day one, Shannon has got a buzz from supporting people to learn and grow.
“It all started for me watching a learner succeed in their workplace. Some people may not have achieved at school because they are more ‘hands-on’ learners. Being able to hand over a certificate after they’ve achieved their first qualification ever is a real highlight.”
After growing up in Timaru, Shannon studied teaching at Otago University. She worked as a primary school teacher while raising three children with husband Mark.
She made the move into adult education with a role at Aoraki Polytechnic (now known as Ara), in Timaru, sparking her passion for adult learning.
It was after the family moved to Grey-
mouth for a lifestyle change that Shannon spotted an advertisement for a Primary ITO training adviser.
“After landing the role I was lucky to have a local farmer take me under his wing and act as my mentor. It was a safe space to ask questions and gain an understanding of how a dairy farm works.”
She spent five years as a training adviser, visiting farms from Karamea to Fox Glacier, working with farmers to sign staff into training programmes, monitor progress, and support learners to tick off their assessments and achieve their qualifications.
“I really enjoyed working alongside the learners, getting to know the farmers, and learning about the different weather, demographics, farm types and history. I felt very lucky to be travelling a road that tourists pay big money to come and see.”
A short stint as a Regional Delivery Manager covering the upper South Island in 2020 gave Shannon an introduction to people leadership. This was soon followed by an opportunity to step into the role of Delivery Manager for the entire South Island.
Just as Shannon took on the role in 2021 the country went into Covid lockdown, pro-
viding the extra challenge of connecting and building relationships with a new team when meeting face-to-face wasn’t an option.
Being able to connect and collaborate via Microsoft Teams and other cloud-based systems, along with more flexible working arrangements since Covid, has been a gamechanger.
“Covid gave me the opportunity to prove that I could do this role from a distance,” she says.
“I’d managed to make it work being based on the West Coast with my team in Christchurch. I wasn’t prepared to move to the big city and I did wonder if that would stop me from taking that next step up career-wise.”
Shannon started her new National Manager role at Primary ITO in July. This role involves working to identify key issues that may impact the primary sector, and the demand for training, now and in the future.
“The primary sector is New Zealand’s biggest money-maker. It’s high-tech working with drones and all sorts of specialised equipment across agriculture, horticulture and other primary industries. There’s so many great career options in the primary sector.”
Primary ITO leads work-based training including apprenticeships in horticulture, agriculture and other primary sectors. Each year Primary ITO works with around 14,000 learners in approximately 4,500 workplaces across the country. Visit primaryito.ac.nz.
Boarding is at the heart of Nelson College, with boarders from New Zealand and across the world including the Pacific, Australia, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
] Advertorial supplied by ]
We’ve created a supportive, stimulating environment where boys enjoy home comforts, while building independence and lifelong friendships.
Housemasters, Matrons, and a team of supervisors ensure the smooth running of our comfortable, heritage boarding houses; Barnicoat and Rutherford.
Boarders have access to two gymnasiums, a pool, weights room, playing fields, and music suites. Beyond the grounds, are nearby beaches, rivers, lakes, and mountains. The sunny climate allows for yearround outdoor activities.
In this family environment, students enjoy a safe and busy lifestyle which gives them access to structured academic support and widespread opportunities in the beautiful Nelson region.
At Nelson College, legacy and modernity coalesce. In preparing our young men for the challenges of a complex world, Nelson
College is guided by three core values. In practicing manaaki (care), pono (integrity), and kairangi (success), students receive a robust character education, which carries them through life, as future fathers, workers, learners, teachers, and leaders. By honouring these values, they bring compassion, competency, and sincerity to all that they do.
We are proud of our academic reputation, with NCEA achievement and endorsement levels consistently above the national average. Destination data indicate that STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) degrees account for the majority of undergraduate degrees favoured by school-leavers, followed by business and commerce.
We emphasise strong communication between home and boarding staff who ensure the safety and development of your son. These staff have close links to the day school, strengthening the academic support for all boarders. Weeks are well organised and include school, sports, outside
activities, and academic support through regular tutorials.
Our sporting legacy is well known, with sports academies providing high-performance training needed to excel in regional and national competitions.
The arts, and our itinerant music lessons are increasing in popularity. With a thriving co-curricular programme, lunchtime clubs and a popular peer tutoring programme, our students are well supported and soon find their niche.
The Meat Industry Association and Beef + Lamb New Zealand have welcomed an announcement the European Union’s Deforestationfree supply chains Regulation (EUDR) will be delayed by 12 months.
] by Kent Caddick
Meat Industry Association (MIA) Independent
Chair Nathan Guy said the red meat sector has been advocating strongly for a delay and a review for almost two years.
Guy said the announcement shows that
the haste with which this regulation was designed and implemented was going to disrupt global supply chains and threaten $200 million worth of New Zealand exports.
He said while the red meat sector supports the intent to tackle global deforestation, both MIA and B+LNZ believe the EUDR has been poorly designed, poorly drafted, and is not fit for purpose.
“The EUDR would impact approximately $200 million worth of beef and leather exports to the EU.
“Instead of incentivising the trade of deforestation-free products, the EUDR sees exports from countries with extremely low instances of deforestation, like New Zealand, treated the same as countries where there is a high-risk of this occurring.”
Guy said the announcement is not a reversal of the legislation, merely a delay.
“MIA and B+LNZ will continue to work with our Trade Minister and his officials to push back and strongly advocate for a more pragmatic and sensible solution.
“New Zealand beef exports’ sustainability creden-
tials need to be formally recognised and treated differently to competitors with deforestation issues,” Guy said.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) Chair Kate Acland said New Zealand has strong sustainability credentials and is committed to preserving forests.
“Sheep and beef farms contain approximately 25 percent of the total native vegetation (tussock, native bush, and scrubland) in New Zealand, comprising 2.8 million hectares,” Acland said.
“This should be recognised by New Zealand’s trading partners, particularly those we have a Free Trade Agreement with.
“Unlike some of our competitors, New Zealand has a significant trend of afforestation, not deforestation. This regulation was not appropriate for New Zealand’s situation and risks adding additional unnecessary cost into the supply chain.
“Maintaining market access settings for New Zealand’s beef is critical with approxi-
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Approved: meat Industry Association (MIA) Independent Chair Nathan Guy has welcomed a decision to delay the european Union’s Deforestation-free supply chains regulation (EUDR) by 12 months.
mately 60 percent of export revenues flowing through to farmers.”
Acland said B+LNZ’s UK-based Regional Manager for the EU and UK, as well as in-market activity from NZ-based staff, has been integral to securing the delay.
“New Zealand’s voice was key in helping EU regulators understand that even their most sustainable trading partners would struggle to comply with these regulations.
“This is not the first time the sector has been successful in its advocacy efforts to address non-tariff trade barriers with the EU and follows the successful exclusion of sheep products from the EUDR in 2022.
“The desire to extend EUDR to sheep products still exists in some EU circles and we will continue our advocacy efforts in this space,” Acland said.
This article was compiled using information supplied by the Meat Industry Association. For more go to: mia.co.nz
The forest and woodlot harvesting sector in New Zealand has returned to reasonable wood flows on the back of some better export log prices.
with Allan Laurie mNZIF
] Laurie Forestry Ltd
For the moment, a subdued production has resumed, and for those of us that survived the last 6 months, there is a tinge of “whew” in the air.
At the last count it is looking like 45 to 50 logging crews throughout New Zealand in the last six months have either called in the liquidators or have pulled the pin before the banks vultures came in and grabbed what was left.
To be honest, we do not want or need that capacity back with markets well supplied and supply/demand in China particularly, close to balanced.
China inventory is slipping below 3 million m3 and daily demand as at mid-October is running along at 60,000 m3 per day. Both are good numbers and should see stable pricing in the near term.
Recent lifts in log prices in China by US$2$4 per cubic metre, has resulted in small increases in New Zealand wharf gate prices with the market gains having mostly been offset by a lift in shipping costs.
Exporters should be tempered in their negotiations remembering any recent gains are as much to do with the RMB strengthening against the US$ which has improved importer margins.
In recent weeks the RMB is looking to
have turned a pretty sharp corner and has been weaking against the US$, thus eroding margins.
The combination of weaker sales than previous year comparatives and currency movements, suggests you will not need your abacus to work out that keeping a cap on production in New Zealand and not being pushy about price will be highly important to New Zealand Forest growers in the near term.
Meanwhile India is now very much in the log export supply mix with no less than nine log vessels either heading there or about to be loaded to head there from New Zealand. This volume is a clear oversupply situation and will need to be carefully managed to avoid price erosion.
Over the last five months, India has been emerging as a solid and stable market. It is certainly offering New Zealand Forest growers some choices, albeit we can expect price trends to generally follow China.
I would regard this key market as now having emerged as a developing opportunity. It is time for NZ to invest in market development and ultimately, volume expansion.
As a commercial forestry practitioner of the last 50 odd years, I was horrified at recent media reports suggesting the pending closure of the Smithfield Freezing Works was related to the loss of pastoral farming land due to conversions into commercial forestry. This misrepresentation of the facts was
‘
India has been emerging as a solid and stable market. It is certainly offering New Zealand Forest growers some choices, albeit we can expect price trends to generally follow China.
entirely related to a B+LNZ report. This report suggested 250,000 hectares of sheep and beef whole farms have been sold to be converted into forestry since 2017, displacing some 2.125mil stock units. Even in a national stats context, this is total bunkum. Locally, an independent study undertaken in 2023 focussed on land use in the central South Island with an emphasis on the commercial forestry area. This report confirmed there are 10,000 less hectares of land in commercial trees than there was in 2005.
The reality is of course the reduction in sheep and beef numbers in the region is almost entirely due to dairy conversions. A real shame the media have not picked up on this.
The commercial forestry sector is a legitimate and wise land use in New Zealand. It has been NZ’s third largest export earner across all wood fibre elements since the 1960’s.
New Zealand’s future lies in wise and sustainable land use spreading our risk across a broad range of foods and fibres. Trees are a thoroughly reliable way of spreading risk whilst enhancing positive environmental outcomes.
There are thousands of hectares of land in NZ that should ideally be in commercial trees. It is farmers who should be encouraged to undertake that planting on land of lesser productivity and or where farming sheep or cattle has proven to be unprofitable.
It is high time organisations like B+LNZ and Fed Farmers got off the “lets bag forestry band wagon” and started to encourage profitability by including commercial tree crops in an integrated land use setting to achieve that.
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.”
Seven prime dairy farms clustered in two of the South Island’s most sought-after dairy farming locations are for sale.
The seven farms, two in Canterbury and five Southland, comprise the complete portfolio managed by corporate farmer Dairy Farms NZ Limited.
Dairy Farms NZ chief executive Craig McBeth said the decision to sell all seven farms was made by the majority of shareholders.
“Many of them were in at the start when Dairy Farms NZ bought its first two properties in Canterbury in 2014, and they have decided it was time to cash up their investment.”
Two are adjoining, mostly irrigated properties, one with an adjacent large lease block, in the Lowcliffe district, 29km south-east of Ashburton in Canterbury. The other five are adjoining units at Otapiri, just north-east of Winton, in Southland.
The two Canterbury units have a combined three-year production average of 860,691kgMS.
Lowcliffe Farm offers 191ha of flat, mostly irrigated freehold land plus an adjacent 255ha of leased land and has averaged 544,600kgMS over the past three seasons from 1,395 cows at peak. Cows are milked in a 70-bail rotary shed, and there is a manager’s house, two other dwellings, four modern accommodation units for staff, plus all the support infrastructure required for a herd this size.
Neighbouring Fairview Farm has produced an average of 316,000kgMS for the same period from milking up to 810 cows on 244ha (225ha effective) of flat, irrigated land using cost-effective water from a series of bores. It has a modern 54-bail rotary shed, two dwellings and three modern units for staff.
Bayleys Canterbury rural salesperson Ben
Turner said the two Mid Canterbury properties presented a great opportunity for an investor syndicate or family business to purchase a large-scale operation in one of the region’s most desirable dairy farming districts.
“Packages that offer large scale at 2,0002,200 cows in a well-regarded area of Canterbury are hard to find.”
Turner said the owners of the leased land next to Lowcliffe are keen to maintain their arrangement with new owners.
“So, buyers get the benefit of being able to milk up to 2,200 cows without the upfront capital cost required to buy that extra land which is a massive bonus for them.”
The five Southland units total around 1,208ha and have achieved a three-year aver-
For sale: Lowcliffe Farm in mid Canterbury offers 191ha of flat, mostly irrigated freehold land plus an adjacent 255ha of leased land and has averaged 544,600kgMS over the past three seasons from 1,395 cows at peak.
age seasonal production of 1,617,493kgMS. Four of the five farms are running 800900 cows each and the smaller unit is milking around 440 cows at peak.
Offers must be submitted by 12pm on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, for the entire portfolio or buyers can offer to purchase either an individual or any combination of properties.
] with Peter burton
As the supply of suitable low cadmium phosphate rock dwindles, the cost has increased and is likely to continue to do so.
The on-going reduction in the amount of synthetic nitrogen further limits the use of the two nutrients pastoral farming has relied on for thirty years.
The solution to the nitrogen situation is a long known one, grow more clover to fill the deficit free of charge.
Calcium is the driver of clover growth, and the availability of high-quality limestone is unlimited, particularly when used to best effect. Calcium has the added benefit of being a lowcost nutrient.
Ultimately N costs can be significantly reduced, pasture production lifted, and nutrient loss via leaching largely eliminated.
The science behind this is not new, and nor is it challenged as there are many farm situations throughout the country that support the thesis.
It stems from the work undertaken by DSIR from the 1950’s, much of which was contained in their Soil Bureau Bulletins.
Current mainstream soil fertility models are based on the conditions that best favour grasses, and they are not the conditions that maximise clover growth.
The graphs on soil and plant tests received from laboratories can easily be reset to show the desired range to be higher or lower.
At present the levels given are skewed toward high grass content pasture rather than pastures containing close to 25% clover.
Standard soil tests give the desired pH between 5.8 and 6.2. Applying sufficient ex-
tra calcium to stimulate clover growth lifts pH close to 6.3, the level where the availability of all major nutrients is greatest.
In most pastoral soils there is many years of phosphorus supply although only a small portion is available for plant uptake at any time.
Applying ag.lime increases plant available phosphorus, known as phosphate sparing with soil testing the best way to measure the effect.
This extra availability is primarily due to the stimulation of beneficial soil biology. Research on the effect lime has on earthworms showed a marked increase in both their numbers and activity.
Earthworms improve physical soil structures allowing more moisture to be retained and plant roots to penetrate deeply allowing both moisture and nutrient to be extracted from as far down as 250mm.
It is not just earthworms that increase nu-
trient availability. Mycorrhizal fungi can extend root zone by up to 9 times and extract both nutrient and moisture from sites unavailable to plant roots.
Twenty years ago, Functional Fertiliser developed CalciZest a product containing ag lime and soft carbons inoculated with a wide variety of selected beneficial fungi and bacteria.
Applied at 400kg/ha in spring, double the clover content of pasture has been
Growing: Calcium is the driver of clover growth, and your stock will thank you for it.
measured during summer.
This increases both weight gain of young animals and milk production, both high in calcium.
Summer is the ideal time for clovers, and the time when grasses go to seed. Where conditions favour clover, gaps are filled providing excellent ground cover helping reduce moisture loss.
For more information call Peter on 027 495 0041 or 0800 843 809.
0800 436 566 or visit www.dolomite.co.nz Electrical problems or maintenance? Use our unrivalled industrial electrical service for:
• Dairy sheds and irrigation • Power reticulation • Effluent control • Dryers, conveyors and generators
Livestock Improvement Corporation (LIC) is embarking on a ground-breaking project aimed at breeding heat tolerant and disease resistant dairy cows for Sub-Saharan Africa.
] by Kent Caddick
The project is in collaboration with the global leader in precision breeding, Acceligen, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
The initiative seeks to address food insecurity in the region by providing high-performing dairy animals to help grow sustainable dairy markets, contributing to improving human and animal welfare.
LIC Chief Executive David Chin said it will combine LIC’s expertise in breeding efficient dairy cows for pasture-based systems, with Acceligen’s cutting-edge gene editing capabilities to produce animals that can produce more milk than native species.
“Collaborating with Acceligen allows us to work with the very best in the world, whilst showcasing our advanced breeding capability to global markets,” Chin said.
“The initiative supports us to stay at the forefront of the latest technologies and is an opportunity to leverage international expertise with positive benefits for the dairy sector.
“As a leader in pasture-based dairy genetics and a farmer-owned co-operative, LIC supports dairy farmers to navigate their unique challenges and, in particular, provide them with the right tools to breed the most sustainable and profitable herds, now and into the future.
“Gene editing technologies could help give farmers even more tools to improve their productivity and efficiency – and that’s something we have to explore.”
Embryos bred from LIC’s world-class pasture based genetics will be sent to the United States, where Acceligen will perform gene edits on the stem cells.
The embryos will then be transferred into dams that will give birth to gene edited sires.
The bull calves will be transported to Brazil for rearing. The semen will be collected from these sires and sold into Sub-Saharan African markets through a developed distributor network.
Locally, the New Zealand Government has committed to legislative change to enable the greater use of gene technologies, ending the effective ban on gene editing by the end of 2025.
Chin said LIC is actively looking at the science and viability of adopting such tools for New Zealand farmers.
“As an organisation, we continue to explore gene editing as a breeding technology to ensure the co-operative stays current with this area of science so we can understand how the sector may adopt it in the future.
“LIC is supportive of tools that can enhance the productivity of the dairy sector and we are ready to adopt new technologies to meet the demands of a changing world.”
The project is funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation with a budget of $5 million USD ($8.3 million NZD). The organisation invests heavily in agriculture development to support farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa in their efforts to sustainably raise healthy, productive animals.
Work to do: The project, which is aimed at breeding heat tolerant and disease resistant dairy cows for Sub-Saharan Africa, combines LIC’s expertise in breeding efficient dairy cows with cutting-edge gene editing.
Over the next ten years a huge number of new groundwater take consents will need to be obtained to replace expiring consents. Is yours one of them?
The annual volume limit on existing consents will be reviewed by the Regional Council as part of this process, with pressure on them to reduce the total allocated from each aquifer. Current policy is to base new annual volumes on the consent holders water meter data.
There are fishhooks in this simple approach for setting new annual volumes which are likely to lead to unfair outcomes. These include:
• Water meter data may not include a “high demand” year that the annual volume is based on – the longer the data record the better.
• Irrigation system limitations and/or management may have limited actual water use.
• Water supply restrictions may have affected actual water use.
• Part of the property may have been out of production due to redevelopment.
• Equipment breakdowns.
Periodically I get asked by other Councils to provide an independent assessment of the annual volume reasonably required to irrigate a property efficiently. The first things I ask for are a copy of all the water meter and soil moisture time-series data, preferably
hourly data. I also get a copy of the climate data for the area for the time-period covered by the water meter data.
The annual volume limit is generally set to fully meet reasonable irrigation requirements nine years in ten, on average, and meet a significant proportion of the requirement in the “10th year”. “Reasonable requirements” usually implies Good Irrigation Management Practice is followed.
Any review of water meter data should establish whether any “9th or 10th year” seasons occurred during the time water meter data was collected. Analysis of the climate data will tell us this. Actual (metered) water use should be close to the annual volume limit in these years, if the assumptions made in setting the existing consent limit are correct.
Comparing the water meter and soil moisture data reveals a lot about the irrigation system and how it is being managed. These are important clues as to why measured annual volume differs from the consented annual volume in the high-demand years.
These often point to changes the farmer or grower could make to improve production, such as increasing irrigation system capacity or changing irrigation trigger levels.
If changes are to be made that are expected to increase actual water use, then these changes should be taken into consid-
eration when setting the new annual volume limits.
It makes no sense to prevent, through water use consent conditions, a farmer or grower achieving greater value per litre of water used.
A pre-requisite for a robust and comprehensive analysis of future irrigation water needs is, of course, good quality monitoring data. Data is needed to prove what’s happening on farm is appropriate.
It’s no longer sufficient to be a good irrigation manager; you also need to demonstrate it. “Show me the numbers”, without them, how will you justify your water allocation?
If you’re to prove what you need, and not lose ground, you need to be keeping the fol-
Data needed: A pre-requisite for a robust and comprehensive analysis of future irrigation water needs is good quality monitoring data.
lowing data for your property:
• Accurate water meter data, with no missing data.
• Continuous soil moisture monitoring records – at least once-a-day measurement.
• Good quality rainfall records, if your farm isn’t close to an official rainfall station.
• Good records on the area of land actually irrigated.
• Secure and reliable data storage. Good numbers are no use if you can’t find them later.
The message is clear; collect and keep irrigation data now, you will need it.
Aquaflex offers a cost-effective, reliable, and accurate soil monitoring solution that stands out for several reasons:
Aquaflex sensors are solar-powered, with battery backup, eliminating the need for batteries to be recharged or replaced. This ensures continuous operation and reduces maintenance requirements, saving farmers time and resources.
Aquaflex sensors are uniquely designed with no egress or connection to the ground level above the soil sensor tape. This crucial feature ensures that water cannot create preferential pathways, providing you with accurate soil moisture readings.
Our innovative design eliminates the common issue of soil “shrinking back” in heavy soils when they dry out, which often exposes monitoring devices and skews data.
With over 25 years of proven performance in the field, Aquaflex has established itself as a trusted and dependable soil monitoring solution. Farmers can rely on its long-standing reputation for accuracy and durability.
Installed directly in the paddock, Aquaflex sensors provide truly representative soil measurements. However, some probes may have their tops exposed and are installed under or behind fence lines, where soil conditions may differ considerably from the irrigated paddock.
Aquaflex sensors provide temperature readings at a depth of 100 mm, offering valuable insights into soil conditions. However, some probes may require users to adjust the installation depth to get this reading, potentially exposing the top of the device to damage from stock and machinery.
Aquaflex sensors can be self-installed and removed as required, offering farmers flexibility and convenience.
In summary, Aquaflex stands out as a reliable and cost-effective soil monitoring solution due to its solar-powered operation, proven track record, ground-level installation, temperature reading capabilities, versatility in installation, and ease of self-installation and removal. Farmers can trust Aquaflex to provide accurate soil moisture data, enabling them to make informed decisions and optimize their farming operations for improved productivity and sustainability.
Greenpeace is again raising the alarm over what it has labelled a ‘public health crisis’ in Canterbury after a drinking water testing event in Oxford recently found more bore water supplies tested over the maximum allowable value of nitrate in drinking water.
] by Kent Caddick
The Greenpeace testing also found that the Darfield public water supply is now averaging around 6 mg/L of nitrate in drinking water which was 1 milligram per litre more than when the organisation last tested the Darfield public water supply six months ago.
Additionally, the Oxford Rural 1 public supply is still consistently testing at levels associated with an increased risk of preterm birth.
Greenpeace freshwater spokesperson Will Appelbe said everyone should be able to safely drink the water coming out of their kitchen tap, without fear of getting sick.
“But sadly, the samples we tested in Oxford are not outliers, and many people in Canterbury are drinking water with levels of nitrate that put them at risk of increased health impacts,” Appelbe said.
“People in rural Canterbury are facing a looming public health crisis that’s been caused by the dairy industry. Nitrate contamination is a result of diffuse pollution from the intensive dairy industry. Put simply, there are too many cows in Canterbury, and nitrate from the oversized dairy herd is making its way into people’s drinking water.”
Appelbe said to compound the problem, right now, the Luxon Government is stripping away protections for lakes, rivers, and communities’ drinking water un-
der the Resource Management Act.
“This is damning evidence that the Government is not acting in the best interests of rural communities – and in fact is knowingly putting them at increased risk of potential health impacts that include bowel cancer and preterm birth.”
He said a growing body of science has shown that long-term exposure to nitrate in drinking water at levels as low as 1 mg/L can increase the risk of developing bowel cancer.
Additionally, the New Zealand College of Midwives advises that pregnant people should consider accessing an alternative water source if their water supply is testing at or above 5 mg/L, due to scientific evidence indicating that this level of nitrate contamination increases the risk of preterm birth.
“Nitrate contamination will get worse before it gets better – and that’s all the more reason to take action now to stop the pollution at its source,” Appelbe said.
“That means phasing out synthetic nitrogen fertiliser use, and it also means less irrigation and fewer cows on farms. If Luxon’s Government won’t take these actions, then regional councils like Environment Canterbury must do so.
“It’s their responsibility to protect the residents of towns like Darfield and Oxford who are at increased risk of adverse health impacts due to nitrate contamination.”
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I’ve recently had the opportunity to explore the work of Bent Flyvbjerg and Dan Gardner in their book of insights and lessons titled “How Big Things Get Done” and relating that to the challenges and strategies in managing water infrastructure projects in New Zealand.
] by Stephen McNally
] IrrigationNZ
]
Principal Technical Advisor
Water is essential for sustaining ecosystems, communities, and economies. In New Zealand, a country renowned for its agricultural landscapes and abundant water resources, effective water storage and distribution infrastructure are paramount.
New Zealand faces a unique set of circumstances concerning water. Its geography, characterized by mountain ranges and variable weather patterns, poses challenges for water storage and distribution. With a growing population and increasing demands from agriculture, industry, and urban centres, ensuring reliable access to water becomes imperative.
The book emphasizes the importance of clear strategic objectives and realistic planning in any project. Applying this principle to water infrastructure in New Zealand, it becomes evident that a comprehensive understanding of water needs, environmental factors, and societal expectations is essential.
Projects must align with the country’s long-term economic, social and environmental goals in balance while addressing immediate needs and uncertainties like floods and droughts.
In IrrigationNZ’s assessment New Zealand currently lacks this overarching freshwater strategic plan, and that presents a problem for determining the pathway for water storage development. This needs to be addressed.
One key aspect highlighted in the book is the significance of stakeholder engagement. In the context of successful water infrastructure, this entails involving the directly affected communities, iwi groups, environmental organizations, and government agencies in decision-making processes.
What can be challenging is when outside influences, driven primarily by ideology, complicate decision-making.
Our communities must be enabled to be self-determining. Collaboration at a local level fosters trust, reduces conflicts, and enhances project outcomes.
Furthermore, the book underscores the importance of risk management and flexibil-
ity in project execution. In the realm of water infrastructure, factors such as climate change, population growth, financial market shifts, and technological advancements introduce uncertainties.
Projects need to incorporate adaptive measures, such as flexible design options, the potential for staged implementation and integrated monitoring systems, to mitigate risks and accommodate future changes.
In the he book Flyvbjerg and Gardner emphasize the role of leadership and governance in project success. Effective leadership fosters accountability, transparency, and strategic decision-making. In the context of water infrastructure in New Zealand, strong leadership at both local and national levels is essential for setting strategic priorities, allocating resources, and setting up relevant and efficient regulatory frameworks.
Investment in water infrastructure is a long-term endeavour that requires both sus-
tained political commitment and a diverse portfolio of public support.
The book highlights the importance of effective communication in garnering support and fostering public trust. Transparent communication about project objectives, timelines, and potential impacts is crucial for managing expectations and addressing concerns.
In conclusion, managing future water storage and distribution infrastructure in New Zealand will be a multifaceted challenge that requires holistic planning, stakeholder engagement, risk management, innovation, and effective governance.
Drawing insights from “How Big Things Get Done,” policymakers, planners, and stakeholders will be well advised to focus early on navigating these challenges to ensure the successful project implementation and management of our vital water resource for generations to come.
Unlike our colleagues in Southland, Canterbury has enjoyed relatively kind weather over spring and farmers are reporting good lamb and calf survival rates.
] by Nicky Hyslop
Zealand Director
While at the time of writing many would welcome a shower of rain, it has been a strong start to the farming calendar and the challenge now is maximise productivity over the next few months.
Financially, it is going to be another tough year for sheep and beef farmers, but we are seeing an easing in interest rates, modest improvements in lamb schedules, a positive outlook for beef and even a lift in wool prices.
As farmers, there are a number of factors we can control that contribute to our productivity and profitability and this is where our focus needs to be over the coming months.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand is running several workshops in our region over November and December with the aim of giving farmers the information they need to make decisions that will help drive efficiencies in their business.
These include B+LNZ Feedsmart workshops, B+LNZ Wormwise workshops and B+LNZ Farming for Profit field days. I really encourage farmers to get along to these events. As well as an opportunity to upskill, they are also a chance to connect with others and get off the farm for a couple of hours.
B+LNZ also has a wealth of on-line or hard copy resources available through the Knowledge Hub or by contacting the team, and these include fact sheets, videos and learning modules as well as podcasts. These
cater to all learning styles and allow all members of the farm team to grow their knowledge base.
These resources cover a range of topics from feed, animal, business, environment and people management to fertiliser use, soil science, shade and shelter, forages and so much more.
In these challenging times, I really encourage people to make full use of their farm support team. These include processor and or livestock agents, agronomy and fertiliser reps, the bank manager and accountant and farm consultant.
Most have invaluable expertise and often experience in making the most effective use of every dollar spent on the farm and useful suggestions for managing cashflow.
It is a busy time of the year when the pressure is on to get stock work done, silage or balage off the paddocks and crops in the ground while managing finances. It is important we all look after ourselves and our teams and ensure everyone takes regular time out. Initiatives such as Surfing for Farmers give farmers a reason to knock off early one day a week and do something completely different and fun.
I recently attended this year’s B+LNZ Awards in Hamilton and it was fantastic to recognise and celebrate our red meat industry.
We have world-leading scientists, outstanding innovative farmers, inspiring
emerging achievers, great rural champions, technologies and so many people who have contributed so much to our industry over their lifetime.
I didn’t envy the judges who had to pick the overall winners from such high-calibre finalists, but it did highlight the depth of talent we have working in our sector.
With velvet season now in full swing (more on that later), it has been another busy month in the deer industry.
To start, however, Deer Industry New Zealand (DINZ) would like to congratulate the South Canterbury-North Otago (SCNO) branch of the New Zealand Deer Farmers Association (NZDFA) for the success of their recent Young Deer Farmer Competition.
Held at Peel Forest Estate near Geraldine, the competition was a world first, which saw 22 contestants aged between 18 and 25 vie for the title. Contestants were scored across a range of activities in both theory and practical, and the top five contestants will now face off at the branch’s annual velvet competition in Timaru on 29 November.
“It was a really great day,” says Mark Tapley, branch chair of the SCNO branch, as well as managing director and stud manager at Peel Forest Estate.
“We had many of our branch members come down to the barbeque in the evening after the event, which was cool to see – all these young folk picking the brains of those who’ve been doing it for years.”
The SCNO branch of the NZDFA represents one of the country’s powerhouse regions for deer farming, and so many of the other branches have been watching with keen interest.
“While we recognise that not every branch could feasibly put on such an event, there’s no reason why some of the smaller regions couldn’t host together,” Tapley says.
“The good thing is now we have a blueprint we can roll out easy as. These types of events – boosting industry awareness, organised by grassroots organisations – are just so important for the future of our industry.”
To venison now, where the beginning of October saw the end of the first quarter for the North American Retail Accelerator project, which officially kicked off back on 1 July of this year.
The main areas of initial focus for the five venison exporters included in the project – namely Alliance, Duncan NZ, First Light, Mountain River and Silver Fern Farms – were retail expansion, new product development, and consumer awareness and education.
The project’s first quarter saw new regional distributors and 17 new retailers added,
for greater market exposure for New Zealand venison, as well as further work into certification for regenerative agriculture in the name of bolstering the provenance of New Zealand venison and leading farming practices.
“While it is early days yet, the initial signs are encouraging,” says Deer Industry New Zealand CEO Rhys Griffiths.
“What’s great to see is the level of sharing and collaboration among our exporters. Obviously commercial sensitivities are respected, but our exporters have really bought in for the greater good of establishing a stronger foothold in a key growth market for New Zealand venison.”
In velvet, regarding the market access to China situation, we have seen some steady progress over the last couple of weeks. Frozen New Zealand velvet has now been officially listed on the GACC (General Administration of Customs China) website.
This marks a significant milestone in the process towards restoring market access, and we have been informed that Chinese importers can now see frozen velvet listed.
Some steps remain, however, before formal importation can begin. Contacts in China have indicated that Chinese importers must have their local customs inspect their premises and reapply for import licenses. This is expected to happen over the next couple of weeks.
Only once these actions are complete can formal importation proceed.
“While these recent updates are promising, we acknowledge that this season has been anything but normal,” says Griffiths.
“That being said, all parties are keenly focused on getting this across the line, and based on information received from GACC, MPI expects normal trade to begin in a few weeks.
“DINZ and the DVAG [Deer Velvet Access Group] are working tirelessly to ensure that the market for frozen velvet is secured so that normal market conditions can prevail.”
Griffiths will be visiting key deer velvet stakeholders in both South Korea and China from October 28 through November 8, which will include meetings with leading importers.
] by Kent Caddick
Action Power & Water Sports (APWS) is an authorised sales, service and parts dealership for BRP’s Can-Am and Sea-Doo range of products, as well as New Zealand’s sole Malibu Boats and Axis Wake Research and Four Winns agents.
Under the guidance of owners Mathew Barr and Daniel Coutts the business has recently relocated to Filly Place off Yaldhurst Road, creating New Zealand’s largest Can-Am and SeaDoo showroom.
In addition, the new premises house full service and workshop facilities creating a onestop solution for all Can-Am, Sea-Doo and boating needs in Canterbury.
Daniel and Mathew have run and built the business into a multi award winner dealership. Since 2011 their approach has been simple, to offer the best products with the best customer service.
Action Power & Water Sports is the only local dealership which sells the number one Sea-Doo Personal Watercraft, Can-Am off-road All Terrain Vehicle and Side by Side Vehicle (SSV), vehicles which have changed the way farmers as well as water and motor sports enthusiasts see their riding experience, combining performance, comfort and convenience for your needs.
Besides offering an unbeatable Sea-Doo PWC line up, Can-Am SSV and ATV line up of quad bikes, their highly trained staff are fully qualified and equipped to meet your needs, with convenient opening hours for vehicle servicing, and the ability to book online.
APWS with its new expanded premises is able to provide a wide range of accessories to fit the specific needs of any ATV or SSV user with an unmatched depth of products.
Choosing the right vehicle for you farming needs can be a tricky decision but Action Power & Water Sports makes it easier with onfarm demonstrations giving farmers the ability to assess a vehicles performance in relation to their needs.
To find out more about Action Power & Water Sports drop into to see mathew and Daniel and their team in Filly Place off Yaldhurst Road, call them on 03 943 5391, or visit their website www.actionpowersports.co.nz
Unmatched: Action Power & Water Sports’ new location in Yaldhurst is New Zealand’s largest Can-Am and Sea-Doo showroom, with the largest ATv and SSv range and accessories in Canterbury, as well as providing full service and workshop facilities.
Choosing your next ATV or Side by Side vehicle for the farm, or a personal watercraft for recreation, has just got a little easier with the opening of Action Power & Water Sports’ purpose-built state of the art showroom and service centre on the outskirts of Christchurch. Golden Bay Dolomite NZ’s most loved magnesium. call 0800 436 566 or visit www.dolomite.co.nz
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