Farmers Weekly NZ September 24 2018

FarmIQ set for growth Vol 17 No 36, September 24, 2018

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7 Fonterra answers critics Vol 17 No 36, September 24, 2018

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Pull your socks up Annette Scott

F

annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz

ARMING systems across the board will change as a result of the Mycoplasma bovis outbreak, Primary Industries Ministry response incident controller Cath Duthie says.

While the phased eradication programme is destined to run over two years, follow-up activities and processes to ensure good ongoing biosecurity practices are expected to take about 10 years.

“People are going to have to tighten up processes.

Everyone, right across all farming is going to have to tighten up.

Cath Duthie MPI “New Zealand is a trading nation and no matter what MPI does to mitigate risk there will always be a degree of risk,” Duthie said.

The response has been an eye-opener for farmers and also for MPI, especially around connectivity between farms.

“A lot of farming systems have casual arrangements and there’s no way of capturing all of those casual arrangements.

“Nait has proved a case,” she said.

“Everyone, right across all

farming is going to have to tighten up with better record-keeping with changes in the systems to understand people’s obligations of movements taking place.

“MPI doesn’t impose these obligations for fun.

“If everything is appropriately recorded and compliant then you are protecting yourselves, your business, NZ agriculture and the economy.

“In the long term we will look at changes right across the board, not just M bovis, because we want to future-proof the whole of NZ farming,” Duthie said.

M bovis is driving some changes but MPI is looking at how it needs to account for the future.

With Nait changes rolling out now, milk will be the next off the block.

“In terms of milk movement we will be looking at what is appropriate to address the risk but still practically workable into a farming system.”

Duthie emphasised the need for tracing for effective disease incursion management.

“Good record-keeping will be a must, not just dairy but all production systems including arable, horticulture, sheep and beef.

“The key message is to know exactly what you do and when you do it on farm, know what you are putting on your farm and where it came from.”

In terms of operating an emergency management Duthie said 14 months is a long time and the focus now is moving from immediate emergency management to being more farmer-focused.

“But we still have the goal of

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BUZZING: A total 350 people are now working in a multitude of sector teams across the Mycoplasma bovis response.

DRIVING CHANGE: Mycoplasma bovis incident controller Cath Duthie is charged with co-ordinating the various response sectors in order to deliver the outcome of eradication. eradication and that will conflict with the control of the disease and farmer focus – it will still be challenging to balance these two.

“There will be some decisions that won’t be liked but that will be essential for the control of the disease.

“We are well aware that when a farmer has us in their lives everything falls apart but what we are doing is for the good of the whole of the NZ agricultural industry.”

With 350 people now working in the various response sector teams there are teams working behind the front line that most farmers are not even aware of.

As the response has grown the number of field staff has increased and for every increase in field staff

there is an increase in the national control centre.

“Every single person working on the response is giving their utmost – we don’t always get it right but that’s not because we are not trying.

“Every single farm has its own complexities. We know we’ve done some wrong but we are getting better.”

There are 37 live infected properties, from 71 in total over the 14 months of the response.

Looking at that compared to the total number of farms across NZ, in terms of buying risky animals or milk, the odds are low, Duthie said.

“It’s important to highlight that around 800 farms are under active surveillance but not under restriction and only about 5% of

those properties will go under restriction so people under active surveillance – the risk is very low.

“If they were a serious risk we would have them under restriction.”

There’s been no evidence to date of over-the-fence spread.

“All spread has been animal movement or animal mixing.”

Duthie came into the M bovis response in April, having previously been involved with myrtle rust and velvet leaf.

“I’m not from a farming background but I do have skill set in emergency management with my role in the bovis response essentially to co-ordinate all the different response sectors in order to deliver the outcome of eradication.”

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NEWS

WEATHER

5 Tax Group moots fertiliser tax Farmers could face several new taxes including one on fertiliser should proposals in the Tax Working Group’s interim report be accepted.

US ripple action disrupts markets ������������������������������� 10 Plant rights law review starting ����������������������������������� 12 Miraka strong and is in profit �������������������������������������� 13

OVERVIEW We’re officially in spring with the equinox now behind us yet this week is most definitely a return to winter weather conditions in the lower half of the South Island and in alpine areas of both islands. The set-up is caused by a large high near Tasmania and a large storm south of New Zealand. These large air pressure systems are working in tandem to dredge up polar air and drag it to New Zealand. The coldest air arrives Tuesday to Thursday and snow levels might drop to near sea level for a time, however, eastern areas might stay much drier and milder because of the west to southwest angle. Warmer weather returns this weekend and next week.

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ON FARM STORY

Pasture Growth Index Above normal Near normal Below normal

7-DAY TRENDS

Newsmaker ������������������������������������������������������26 Opinion ������������������������������������������������������������28

NZX PASTURE GROWTH INDEX – Next 15 days

Rain This week is dominated by west to southwest, southwest and southerly wind flows that will encourage the bulk of the rain to fall on the western side of NZ and southern-facing regions with some snow there too.

Drier than average elsewhere.

Temperature Much colder than average this week in regions like Southland, Otago and West Coast. Elsewhere a definite cool down but many regions will be back to normal after a warmer than average run lately. A colder week but warm weekend.

34 Gold rush is irresistable

Wind A large low in the Southern Ocean will encourage windy west, westsouthwest and south-southwest winds for the most part this week with some variations of that.

Wednesday looks to be the windiest day overall. High pressure this Friday/Saturday then northwest winds return.

Highlights/ Extremes Wind chill/misery index will be below zero at times this week in the southern half of the South Island.

Snow through alpine areas of both islands. Strong winds in coastal areas with gales. A tough week for some newborn stock.

14-DAY OUTLOOK

For further information on the NZX PGI visit www.agrihq.co.nz/pgi Not a great week for pasture growth but in saying that we might also get some positives.

Let’s start with the negatives though and cold winter conditions return to the lower half of the South Island, frosts possible late week.

Heavy snow in the ranges might drop as low as 100m. The positive is that this system will bring moisture to the western and southern sides of NZ so with warmer air this coming weekend pasture growth should lift next week.

SOIL MOISTURE INDEX – 21/08/2018

Cameron Henderson grew up on a dairy farm in Waikato but early in his career he decided dairy farming wasn’t for him. Eight years ago he saw a new light in the industry and joined the gold rush of dairying in a new pocket of Canterbury.

REGULARS Real Estate ����������������������������������������������������������?

Employment �������������������������������������������������������?

Classifieds �����������������������������������������������������������?

Livestock �������������������������������������������������������������?

Markets ����������������������������������������������������������������?

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

3

Synlait doubles its profit, goes greener Alan Williams alan.williams@globalhq.co.nz SYNLAIT Milk is budgeting for about $1.3 million in incentive payments this financial year for dairy farmer-suppliers avoiding the use of palm kernel as stock feed.

The fast-growing dairy manufacturer is adding ambitious environmental and sustainability targets to its profit-based expansion, which now includes the planned acquisition of a South Canterbury cheese business.

The no palm kernel incentive will add to the group’s existing range of premium payments, which cover seasonal supply, the Lead With Pride quality certification and the Grass Fed and A2 milk supply.

It is early days for the palm kernel initiative, new chief executive Leon Clement said.

But farmers will want to be involved and the company will work with them to help them transition away from the feed.

More than half of the 200 or so suppliers are on some sort of premium arrangement, including about a third on the main Lead With Pride programme.

Not all of them are on all the premium programmes, which in total added 13c/kg MS to the average price paid by the company in the 2017-18 season.

Added to the base $6.65/kg MS figure, the total average price was $6.78.

That is a significant gain over the $6.30/kg MS price a year earlier, which had a $6.16 and 14c split.

Synlait has now forecast a $6.75 total this season, compared to an opening forecast of $7, following commodity price falls only partly

offset by a weaker dollar. The new forecast allows for an expected recovery in commodity prices in the medium term, Clement said.

That could result from an international supply/demand issue because there is pressure on milk supply in Europe, the United States and Australian industries and signs of constraints in Chinese domestic supply.

There is good production in New Zealand but if the international issues play out they will drive up prices.

“We’ve cautiously signalled a rise and if it does not happen the milk price may change through the season,” he said.

Synlait reported an after-tax profit of $74.6 million for the year ended July 31, a big rise over the $39.5m figure a year earlier but not a surprise following the record first-half reported in March.

Earnings growth will continue this year though probably at a slower rate, it said.

The 2018 profit gains outstripped revenue growth, up from $759m to $879m, because of a greater ratio of finished infant formula in the sale mix at 28% of the total, up from 13% a year earlier. That lifted the gross margin a tonne to $1294 from $792, a 63% gain.

Despite that, operating cashflows slipped to $98.4m from $115.17m but remain very healthy.

The main reason for that was an increase in inventories, up from $82.7m to $145.4m, chief financial officer Nigel Greenwood said.

Because of the rate of growth in infant formula sales, more bulk formula is needed on hand going into balance date to meet the following first-quarter sales.

Though Synlait’s already modest interest-bearing debt ratio is

lower, at 18% from 21% of total assets previously, the net debt figure has increased by about $30m because of the lower cash on hand.

Synlait has a strong balance sheet from which to fund its expansion with major building projects including the advanced dairy and liquid milk facility at the main Dunsandel site and the new infant formula plant at Pokeno in Waikato.

The palm kernel incentive offer to suppliers is part of what Clement said is an holistic approach to the group’s value chain with the environment and sustainability becoming more of a focus.

The Lead With Pride programme will bring in greenhouse gas emissions targets, reducing levels by 35% by 2028.

Other targets are a 20% reduction in water use and a 45% reduction in nitrogen loss.

Farmers will be offered an increase in incentive payments as encouragement to secure the certification.

“We think our sustainability goals are a brave leadership position.”

The new, advanced dairy and liquid milk packaging plant at Dunsandel heralds a new Everyday Dairy category for Synlait.

From April the plant will supply Foodstuffs South Island with all its private label fresh milk and cream.

Synlait also announced plans to buy selected assets of the Talbot Forest Cheese business in South Canterbury, including a new production plant at Temuka with 12,000 tonne capacity. The investment, in two stages and involving between $30m and $40m, is expected to be completed

GROWING: Synlait is expanding its production volumes and products range, awaiting Chinese and American approvals for milk powders and it building its sustainability credentials, chief executive Leon Clement says.

in August next year. Talbot Forest Cheese has existing sales and sales growth but Synlait is really buying into the strategic asset.

The Everyday Dairy category is a $2 billion market in NZ and Synlait will also target overseas markets, Clement said.

The acquisition cements Synlait as a company with high-quality, flexible dairy manufacturing capabilities tailored to meet customer needs and with diverse revenue streams. The acquired business will have a variety of cheese products. NZ cheese is as big a market as milk, he said.

The new processing plant at Pokeno is slightly behind schedule because of some delays getting materials but momentum is building again and it was expected to open in the first half of 2019-20 season.

Synlait is working to recruit milk suppliers and getting a positive response from dairy farmers.

The A2 Platinum infant formula made for A2 Milk Co is Synlait’s

highest-profile product and in July the parties signed a new supply agreement running to July 2023.

Synlait is exclusive infant formula maker for A2 in the Australian, NZ and Chinese markets. A2 now owns just over 17% of Synlait.

For its biggest shareholder, Chinese group Bright Dairy, Synlait is working to secure registration in China for its infant formula brand that Synlait makes and is doing the same for the New Hope brand. There has been some tightening up in the regulatory process but approvals are expected this year.

Another customer is the United States-based Munchkin group, which is still working its way through the registration process for its Grass Fed infant formula in the US. That is taking longer than expected.

Grass Fed is selling well for Munchkin in Australia.

Synlait is also increasing its research and development spend, Clement said.

4

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

Storm costs farmers $13m Alan Williams alan.williams@globalhq.co.nz A FOUR-DAY deluge hit the North Island’s east coast just as the lambing season was moving to its peak.

Up to 100,000 lambs might have died in the easterly rain and wind storm that began on September 4 and lasted nearly five days.

The final tally won’t be known till docking is completed sometime in October, Hawke’s Bay Federated farmers president Jim Galloway said.

The numbers were patchy at this stage and losses around 80,000 were also possible.

“It was just bad luck to get caught when they did.

“It was wet and muddy and people worked like hell to get things right but you couldn’t really move stock in those conditions because it could have caused more problems with ewes and lambs who were together.”

The rainfall was right along the east coast and also stretched inland to Taihape with the worst impact from Hawke’s Bay to Wairarapa.

Early lambs born in July and a good part of August, during

what was an excellent winter, coped well with the storm but for the main part of lambing it came at the worst time, AgriHQ analyst Mel Croad said.

Word around the region was that it was the worst conditions during lambing in 20 to 30 years.

“Some farmers were saying they’d lost 15% to 20% of the lambs being born. It’s a double blow when you think what lambs are worth.”

Wallace Group processes slink skins at its Feilding plant.

Group chief executive Graham Shortland said numbers are commercially sensitive but significantly higher than would be expected in a normal week at this time of year.

The biggest numbers were from central and northern Hawke’s Bay. Numbers had normalised as lambing moved passed its peak.

Beef + Lamb NZ figures show from September 2 to 9 the east coast weekly lambing rate is about 300,000 lambs at the start and rising to 500,000 at the end with a peak of 750,000 about September 16.

By then conditions were fine again.

Farmers escape largely unscathed Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz

OUCH: Farmers got a double blow with lambs worth about $130 this season, AgriHQ analyst Mel Croad says.

The figures also show 19% of the national ewe flock is farmed in Hawke’s Bay and Wairarapa, nearly 40% of the North Island flock.

In Hawke’s Bay, 2.422 million ewes were estimated to be mated for this lambing season and in Wairarapa the number was just over 658,850 ewes. That is down on the previous year because of the number of older ewes killed for the high mutton value last summer.

A lambing rate about 130% would produce about 3.9m lambs.

The storm loss would be about 2.5%.

B+LNZ expects about 22.8m lambs to be born in NZ this year, with a 100,000 loss being about 0.5%.

That’s very low on a nationwide scale but the agency has forecast an average lamb price of $132 this season, meaning up to $13m of gross value loss for farmers.

SOUTHERN South Island farmers emerged largely unscathed from last week’s storm.

Last Monday’s front was confined to western areas of Southland and Otago, focused on Milford Sound, Glenorchy, Queenstown and Wanaka, bringing snow to low levels, closing roads and cutting electricity to 3000 properties.

High country farmers start lambing in late September or early October while those in basins who were lambing said the storm was short and sharp and had minimal impact.

Lambing was well under way on Phill Hunt’s Hawea farm when he woke to 25mm of snow on Monday morning.

The saving grace was the weather was calm and the snow had largely gone by lunch time, leaving minor lamb losses, though he used up all his lamb covers.

“It was short and sharp not too much of an issue.”

The associated rain was heavy and Hunt said together with the snow he had 47mm of rain fall in 16 hours from Sunday to noon Monday.

Hunt said it had been sunny and warm since the rain though there were some minor frosts.

North Otago Federated Farmers president Simon Williamson, who farms in the Mackenzie Basin, said with lambing still a week or two away the storm had little impact but farmers welcomed the 15mm of rain that accompanied it.

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

5

Tax Group moots fertiliser tax Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz FARMERS could face several new taxes including one on fertiliser should proposals in the Tax Working Group’s interim report be accepted.

The report highlights tax on capital income including farms and using tax to address environmental issues such as greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, water abstraction, solid waste and road transport.

The group’s chairman Sir Michael Cullen said the review looked at the structure, fairness and balance of the tax system, which includes introducing environmental taxes, improving tax compliance and capital income.

Cullen said the group considered extending the tax net to capture gains from assets not already taxed or taxing deemed returns from assets.

That could include interest in land excluding the family home, intangible property including goodwill, other business assets such as plant and equipment and shares and other equity interests.

It ruled out a land tax.

A table in the report forecast a capital gains tax introduced in 2021-22 would raise $30 million from the sale of rural land, increasing to $840m in 2030-31.

Over that same period total income from a capital gains tax would lift from $290m to nearly $6 billion.

Environmental taxes can influence behaviour, mitigation or assist people through change and should be considered alongside regulation, it said.

Of the $4.9b now raised in environmental taxes, most comes from road user charges and energy with less than 3% from taxes on pollution, waste disposal and energy resource levies.

It noted taxing greenhouse gases is challenging because of

NOT IN FAVOUR: Federated Farmers opposes a broad tax on unrealised capital gains but is pleased the Tax Working Group notes tax is not suited to all environmental problems, its vice-president Andrew Hoggard says.

An alternative approach is nationally uniform charging, for example, a fertiliser tax.

Tax Working Group difficulties measuring emissions, international linkages and pricing.

While acknowledging more work is needed on Overseer, it noted imprecise approaches can provide useful price signals on

land use and intensity decisions by farmers.

The report suggested a fertiliser tax as opposed to nitrogen discharge catchment trading schemes such as used around Lake Taupo and proposed for the Rotorua lakes.

“Locally variable pricing tools could involve significant administrative and compliance complexity.

“An alternative approach is nationally uniform charging, for example, a fertiliser tax.”

The report did not calculate how much a fertiliser tax would raise but estimated a $2/kg charge on all leached nitrates

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Federated Farmers vicepresident Andrew Hoggard said the report reflects much of the organisation’s submission.

While opposed to a broad tax on unrealised capital gains it acknowledged concerns about tax liability for the intergenerational sale of family farms or farmers trading up to bigger properties.

Hoggard said he was pleased the report noted tax is not suited to all environmental problems.

Irrigation NZ has warned against a nationwide water tax to drive efficiency, saying allowing irrigators to invest in more modern systems will provide better water use efficiency.

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Tradeable water rights are considered risky because a small number of participants will reduce competition and administrative costs could be high.

More accurate pricing of water abstraction would incentivise efficiency and increase investment in water storage and transport infrastructure and any tax should capture all users, it said.

“Over the medium term there could be benefits from greater use of tax instruments to address challenges in both water pollution and water abstraction.”

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

7

Milk price guardian fires back Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz

IT’S PURE: Fonterra director Brent Goldsack says Fonterra’s farmgate milk price is determined by a computer model and can’t be manipulated.

“The milk price mechanism has been a great thing for NZ dairy farmers. Because the model is so robust we can see the underlying performance of the business.

“It is laid out in the MPM and audited by the Commerce Commission and PricewaterhouseCoopers so there can’t be any jiggery-pokery.”

Goldsack is especially annoyed at the claim Fonterra’s inflated milk price is the sort of behaviour that resulted in the downfall and sale of Australian co-operative and market leader Murray Goulburn.

“That was emotive and irresponsible.”

Fonterra Australia was subject to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) inquiry and cleared of everything because it had repeatedly warned the Murray Goulburn milk price wasn’t sustainable.

“NZ has an actual milk price and there is no borrowing to inflate it.

“The milk price is not determined by what Fonterra wants to pay. It is determined by the regulations in DIRA.” Last season the net return on sales of the five reference commodities was $8.45/kg milksolids, net of tariffs.

From that was deducted $1.16 and 54c capital charge for interest, return on capital and depreciation.

More than 40% of the reference products are now sold off the Global Dairy Trade platform and the effect is to add more than 10c to the milk price.

But that doesn’t come from earnings. It is extra revenue from Fonterra’s commodity customers.

For the past three years the cost of processing a kilogram of milksolids has remained at $1.16.

“Fonterra has done an excellent job of restraining those processing costs.

“If inflation had been allowed to

flow through since 2009, when we first started on the MPM, current processing costs would be 50c/ kg higher or $750 million a year to Fonterra.

“A huge amount of work every day by thousands of Fonterra employees goes into maximising the milk price but not at the expense of earnings and that is more money for farmers.”

If Gow and Lockhart wanted to argue a structural change in world markets they should acknowledge NZ milk prices are now highly competitive with those in the European Union and the United States.

“In the past when Fonterra had a lower input cost for food service products, for example, there was more margin available when we competed to sell in China or wherever.

“That’s the structural change, if any, and we are yet to see if that sticks around and it is Fonterra’s job to make sure it does.”

A huge amount of work every day by thousands of Fonterra employees goes into maximising the milk price but not at the expense of earnings and that is more money for farmers.

Goldsack said Fonterra’s earnings performance in the 2018 financial year was incredibly disappointing and not one that should be repeated.

Earnings were affected by a rise in the milk price towards the end of the year – a 20c/kg MS rise would increase Fonterra’s cost of goods in higher value products by $350m, very difficult to recover in a short time.

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FONTERRA doesn’t make up the farmgate milk price, director Brent Goldsack says.

It is comprehensively and independently determined from the sales prices and revenue of the reference products.

“The milk price is set on actual returns from the world markets and subject to regulation under law,” he said in reply to an argument put forward by Massey University Academics James Lockhart and Hamish Gow that last season’s final price was too high.

They said a stubborn market and static or declining Global Dairy Trade results indicated a milk payout of $5.50 to $6/kg milksolids, not $6.70.

Goldsack, a dairy farmer and chartered accountant, is a member of the five-person Milk Price Panel charged with overseeing the application of the Milk Price Manual (MPM) to results and recommendations from Fonterra’s senior managers.

The other members are Fonterra independent directors Bruce Hassell and Scott St John (chairman) and Andrew Wallace and Bill Donaldson, appointed by the Fonterra Shareholders’ Council.

When the panel has governed the proper application of the MPM, which is a computer-based modelling exercise, the decision is made by the board, Goldsack said.

The Dairy Industry Restructuring Act (DIRA) requires the chairman and a majority of the members of the panel to be independent.

Forecasting the milk price during the season is difficult and Fonterra has considerable expertise invested in that procedure but at the end of the year the price is real, actual numbers and beyond conjecture.

The panel looks at anything that could move the milk price by 0.1c – a $1.5 million effect on the business – such is the degree of fine-tuning.

8

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

Sheep, wool, crop income rising Alan Williams alan.williams@globalhq.co.nz

CONSEQUENCE: Last years big mutton kill has resulted in fewer lambs this season.

Total revenue per farm is expected to rise 0.7% to $545,900.

applied. Reduced debt and lower interest rates lead to the lower interest costs.

REGIONAL FORECASTS Northland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty Gross revenue down 2.5% to $418,700 with reductions in sheep, cattle and dairy grazing, which provide 89% of the total.

Cattle down 2.8% to $196,100 on lower cattle prices and numbers than the previous year but still well up on the five-year average.

Sheep revenues down 2.1% to $143,500 on the lower lamb crop.

Farm expenditure marginally higher at a forecast $308,400 though fertiliser spend lower on a reduced tonnage on hill country farms.

Profit before tax on the average farm down nearly 10% to $110,300.

East Coast Gross revenues marginally lower at $546,100 with sheep 4% higher at $292,40, the highest since 201112, with higher prices making up for lower numbers.

Sheep gains to be partly offset by cattle revenues down 9.4% to $171,800 with lower prices and fewer animals sold.

Weaner heifer prices remain high because of competition among breeders and finishers for beef replacements.

Total farm expenditure up 1% to $426,400, headed by wages and shearing costs.

Farm profit forecast up 5.2% to $119,700.

Taranaki, Manawatu Gross farm revenue down 6.3% to $505,900 on lower sheep and cattle returns.

Sheep down 4.4% to $298,100 because of fewer lambs bred and sold.

Cattle revenues to fall 12% to $134,800 on combined lower numbers and lower prices.

In addition, dairy grazing income reduced an expected 22% to $12,300 as hill country farmers

look to avoid the Mycoplasma bovis risk and instead target the strong sheep returns.

Total farm expenditure up 2.4% to $373,000 including fertiliser up 13% to $49,800 as farmers raise application rates after record profits last year. The rise in shearing rates is also a factor.

Farm profit before tax down a hefty 24% to $132,900.

anecdotal shift to sheep among mixed cropping and finishing farmers because of reduced soil damage and getting over the fear of labour in sheep.

Total farm expenditure up 2.8% to $575,900 with increases everywhere except interest costs and fertiliser.

Farm profit before tax increasing 5.4% to $135,900.

Marlborough, Canterbury Gross farm revenue up 3.3% to $711,800.

Sheep virtually steady at $266,600.

Cattle up 2% to $136,800 on a lift in numbers more than offsetting price falls.

Dairy grazing revenues up 13% to $60,800 because of increase on finishing and breeding farms, the most common Canterbury farm type.

Cash cropping revenues up 6.3% to $160,000, helped by greater wheat area and yields.

Wool up 3.3% to $53,000 on price gains from the previous two poor years.

Though cattle numbers are up overall, the report notes an

Otago, Southland Gross revenues up 3.7% to $497,600 with sheep, cattle and wool all higher.

Sheep also up 3.7% to $343,000 as more prime lambs are sold at slightly stronger prices.

Wool also up 3.7% to $44,600 on higher prices.

Cattle revenues up a forecast 2.1% to $68,800, based on more breeding cows and heifers.

Total farm expenditure up 1% to $349,700 with decreases for feed and grazing and loan interest.

Feed costs are expected to fall 21% to more normal levels after the impact of last summer’s drought.

Farm profit before tax is expected to be up 10% to $147,900.

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NORTH Island sheep and beef farmers face most of the forecast earnings reduction this financial year.

Nationally, a small cut to the pre-tax earnings of the average farm is expected by Beef + Lamb New Zealand but that allows for bigger falls in Northland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Taranaki and Manawatu.

Breeding ewe numbers fell with last season’s big price-driven mutton kill so fewer lambs this season is one reason for the lower earnings.

In contrast, the greater focus on sheep returns points to gains on the east coast of the North Island and in Marlborough and Canterbury, supported by cash cropping, and Otago and Southland after the drought last summer.

In its New Season Outlook B+LNZ forecast continuing strong export returns for beef and sheep with combined revenues of about $6.5 billion for the October to September export season.

The accompanying forecasts of farm earnings cover the financial year to June 30. Higher input costs are a factor.

Figures are provided across a range of foreign exchange levels and the authors settle on an average mid-rate of US$0.67 for their main forecast.

The farm profit before tax for the all classes sheep and beef farm for 2018-19 is forecast to average $129,700, a 2.8% fall on the previous year. The forecast allows for a manger’s salary.

Sheep revenues are expected to rise slightly, wool to rise but remain below five-year averages, cattle a bit lower year-on-year and crop revenues higher in the growing regions.

Total revenue per farm is expected to rise 0.7% to $545,900.

Farm expenditure is estimated to rise 1.8% to $416,200.

Repairs, maintenance, feed, grazing and loan interest are forecast to fall but fertiliser costs to rise on a slight lift in volumes

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News

10 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

US ripple action disrupts markets Nigel Stirling nigel.stirling@globalhq.co.nz

RIPPLES: United States President Donald Trump’s actions are disrupting markets and he has threatened more if China responds to his tariffs.

SOME primary products exporters are reporting a hit to the confidence of Chinese customers and the beginnings of a weakening in demand in the wake of American President Donald Trump’s latest tariff salvo.

Trade hostilities between the United States and

China heightened further last week with tit-for-tat tariffs from both sides.

Last Monday the US announced tariffs on US$200 billion worth of imports from China.

While the quantity of imports targeted was expected, the tariff rate imposed – initially 10% then rising to 25% on January 1 – is at the higher end of expectations.

Trump immediately raised the temperature with threats to impose tariffs on the remaining US$267b of Chinese imports into the US should China retaliate with tariffs of its own.

On Wednesday China responded with 5%-10% tariffs on US$60b worth of US imports.

Log exporter Rayonier’s marketing manager Chris Rayes said an earlier round of tariffs against US logs was a short-term boost for competing exports from New Zealand.

However, the subsequent escalation of tariffs against Chinese exports bound for the US is fueling fears about a slowdown in China’s rate of economic growth.

About 70% of Chinese demand for softwood logs came from the construction sector, which was especially sensitive to swings in confidence in the economy’s future prospects.

“I have just come back from China and every customer I saw was talking about and concerned about the trade war and how it might effect their businesses and undermine confidence.

“We are definitely seeing an ebb in confidence and I won’t say a big drop in demand but softer demand than we would have seen at this time last year.”

Rayes said sagging confidence in the Chinese economy has also led to a weakening in the renminbi, which is eating away at the buying power of importers of NZ logs.

However, he discounted suggestions China will engineer further currency declines to counteract the effect of US tariffs on export incomes.

China’s central bank has in fact stepped into the currency market twice in recent weeks to help prevent a further slide in the value of the renminbi.

Beef + Lamb NZ’s international trade manager Esther Guy-Meakin said the levy-funded body has yet to analyse how much of the US$90m a year of beef exports to China from the US will be hit by the latest tariffs.

China recently relaxed restrictions on US beef entering the country and while tariffs could see off an emerging competitive threat to NZ’s beef exports it remains to be seen what disruptive effects they will create in other markets.

“It creates a whole range of uncertainties because you do not know how other markets will be able to absorb the diversion of that product.”

Fonterra’s global stakeholder affairs director Simon Tucker said similar knock-on effects can be expected in international dairy markets from China’s tariffs on US dairy exports.

US dairy exports to China rose by 49% last year to US$577m.

That rate of expansion is likely to take a dive now, however, after China hit US dairy exports with a 25% tariff in July.

Tucker said the industry will be sifting through the latest round of retaliatory tariffs by China against US dairy exports in an attempt to predict potential disruption to markets important for NZ exports.

“If the US is not sending that product to China it must end up somewhere.

“The question is where is it going to go and is that additional supply going to have a price impact.”

Have your say on this issue: farmersweekly.co.nz

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

11

Stock agents opt for self-rule THE country’s biggest livestock agents have signed up to a code of conduct as the industry heeds calls to tidy up its act in the face of multiple farmer lawsuits and a Serious Fraud Office investigation.

The industry has been under pressure to respond since it emerged earlier this year that South Island agency Rural Livestock is facing court action from five farmer clients of a previous employee who is also under investigation by the SFO following a complaint from the firm.

Federated Farmers in May called for rules governing the practice of stock agents with an independent body to adjudicate on disputes with farmers.

Since then it has been working with the New Zealand Stock and Station Agents Association on a code of practice and a system for hearing complaints against livestock agents.

The association has now adopted a code of practice

and will form a four-person discipline and professional conduct board to hear complaints.

The disciplinary board will be chaired by Canterbury agent and association board member Ed Marfell and will have two more association representatives and a fourth, independent member.

Adjudication will be by three-quarters majority and decisions and penalties imposed on agents found in breach of the code of conduct will be made public at the board’s discretion.

It will not have the power to kick an agent out of the industry or impose fines.

“In the case of a breach the Discipline and Professional Conduct Board shall agree a penalty consistent with both the gravity of the breach and previous penalties for similar breaches from the options provided in the NZSSA rules.”

Association chairman Steve Morrison said the measures were unanimously approved by the association’s members, who make the bulk of livestock transactions across the country.

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Members included major players PGG Wrightson, NZ Farmers Livestock (formerly Allied Farmers), Carrfields and Rural Livestock.

Asked whether the penalties amount to a slap with a wet bus ticket if there is no provision to kick agents out of the industry altogether Morrison disagreed.

“If we see something that we are unhappy with we will make it clear to our member and be looking for them to address it.

“If we see no response then there is the opportunity to look at how that member has operated and whether they are fit to be a member of the association.”

Federated Farmers meat and fibre section chairman Miles Anderson in May said the real estate industry was one model that could be considered for livestock agents.

Under the Real Estate Agent Act passed by Parliament in 2008 agents can be fined up to $100,000 and have their registration to practice torn up.

However, Anderson

estimated such a formal approach would cost several million dollars with the costs likely to be recouped from farmers through higher commissions and other charges.

He is happy with the code of practice and disciplinary process agreed on by the association even though it will not cover agents who are not members.

“A number of agents that I have talked to have thought that having something like this would be appropriate.

“I do not think there is going to be a lot of resistance because the reputational risk of not being part of this is going to be quite high.”

If the new regime proves ineffective there is the option of lobbying the Government to legislate for licensing of livestock agents and stronger penalties.

“The idea is that we have not discounted regulation but we see that as a last resort because it takes a long time and it can be costly and the costs are going to fall back on the farmer anyway.”

“All I have to do is concentrate on walking the paddock and read the meter at the end – it’s pretty simple. It’s given me an accurate tool for my grazing management…I have no regrets.”

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TOUGH: A voluntary code of conduct is strong enough because the new professional conduct board can make it clear when it is not happy with something, Stock and Station Agents Association president Steve Morrison says.

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News

12 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

Plant rights law review starting Annette Scott annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz SEED breeders have welcomed further progress towards reform of New Zealand’s outdated plant laws.

A Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment discussion paper is the latest step in the process to update the Plant Varieties Rights Act to align it with international standards.

Plant Breeding and Research Association (PBRA) general manager Thomas Chin said the review is long overdue with industry members keen to have input into change that will benefit the wider NZ primary sector.

“NZ’s seed industry underpins our pastoral, arable and horticulture industries.

“Without the very best seed we would struggle to maintain a successful agricultural base and our competitive edge,” Chin said.

The law encourages investment in development of new plant varieties for NZ farmers and growers by granting proprietary rights to breeders and developers.

Ryegrass, clover, wheat, barley and forage brassicas are among key species for pastoral and arable production covered by the legislation.

Breeders, including Crown research institutes, private companies and overseas people, creating new plant varieties are

granted exclusive rights to sell and collect royalties on the seed or reproductive material of the variety.

NZ farmers can store and use a protected seed variety if it is used on their own farm.

I want to ensure our plant variety rights regime strikes the right balance between the interests of rights holders, Maori, farmers and growers, consumers and our wider economy.

Kris Faafoi Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister But Chin said the seed cannot be sold, traded or bartered in any way.

Breeding and commercialising a new cultivar can take up to 10 years and incur more than $1 million of research and development costs.

Strong legal protections will encourage plant breeders to provide the latest advances in seed genetics to farmers and

continue doing local research and development.

“We look forward to contributing to the review.

“The association will urge policy makers to preserve farmers’ rights to save and use seed on their own farm and to enable the collection of a royalty on protected seed varieties saved by farmers.

“At the end of the day we want to see our plant laws in step with international standards, which support our vital primary industry in NZ.” Global plant breeding and development is governed by the Convention of the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants, known as UPOV 91.

NZ has not yet ratified the convention.

The MBIE paper follows completion of two streams of technical, targeted workshops on intellectual property and plant variety rights with key industry stakeholders and Maori experts.

Public consultation on the issues paper has been invited with submissions closing on December 21.

Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Kris Faafoi said the paper asks for feedback on the key issues that have been identified with the effectiveness of the plant variety rights regime.

A robust plant variety rights regime gives plant breeders intellectual property rights over

SEEDS THE KEY: Without the very best seed New Zealand would struggle to maintain a successful agricultural base and competitive edge, Plant Breeding and Research Association general manager Thomas Chin says.

new plant varieties they have developed.

“The certainty of those rights encourages the development and dissemination of new plant varieties, which is both good for plant breeders, users of plants and seeds and provides consumers with a wider choice of products.

“At the same time I want to ensure our plant variety rights regime strikes the right balance between the interests of rights holders, Maori, farmers and growers, consumers and our wider economy so NZ gains maximum benefit from the regime while meeting our international and Treaty of Waitangi obligations.”

NZ has obligations under the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans Pacific Partnership to modernise its regime to meet international standards for plant variety rights protection and must do that within three years of the agreement coming into force for NZ.

“NZ also negotiated a specific exception in the CPTPP to be able to adopt any policy it considers necessary to give effect to our Treaty of Waitangi obligations.

“Ensuring the plant variety rights regime includes adequate protection and recognition of Maori interests in the regime will be an important outcome of this review,” Faafoi said.

Alongside the plant variety rights consultation, Faafoi has also announced the release of a discussion document that considers whether NZ should require patent applicants to provide information on the origin of genetic resources or traditional knowledge used in their inventions.

MORE:

The consultation documents and more information can be read at www.mbie.govt.nz/info-services/ business/intellectual-property/plantvariety-rights/review/issues-paper

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

13

Miraka strong and is in profit Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz CENTRAL North Island dairy processor Miraka paid an average of $6.80/kg of milksolids to 107 supplying farms in the 2017-18 season, incorporating an average 13c of quality-control premium.

We are incentivising good behaviour and it is leading to changes on farms.

Richard Wyeth Miraka The Miraka base price was $6.67, only 2c under the Fonterra farmgate milk price but achieved on a much narrower range of products.

Miraka chief executive Richard Wyeth said whole milk powder prices achieved a premium over the Global Dairy Trade prices because of tailored specifications to long-term customers, sold through the privately owned

marketer Global Dairy Network.

Good foreign exchange management also helped achieve the second-best payout in Miraka’s seven-year history.

Wyeth said the UHT plant ran at close to full capacity of 60 million litres over the financial year, producing consumer packs also marketed around the world

by GDN. He was speaking from Australia, on a business trip to grow the Taupo Pure brand of UHT and consumer packs of milk powders, principally to China.

Domestic and export sales of Whaiora natural smoothie blend in 400g cans had been slightly slower than planned but that brand and product category were still in their infancy.

Milk collection last season was up 4% on budget and volume so far this season is up 1%.

Along with the 2018 results Miraka updated its forecast to $6.45-$6.75/kg MS. Wyeth said the financial results are only for the shareholders, which are the Maori trusts and incorporations in the region and investor partner Vinamilk of Vietnam, which holds 23%.

However, Miraka has a strong balance sheet with a 20% debt-to-

NEARLY THERE: Miraka’s plant is nearing capacity and it has expansion plans, chief executive Richard Wyeth says.

debt-plus-equity ratio and made a net profit and paid a dividend along with retaining money for future growth.

The company is working on expansion projects now it is near processing capacity but Wyeth was

not able to say any more.

As was the case in the 2016-17 season, one supply farm achieved 100% in Te Ara Miraka (the Miraka way) quality and therefore was paid the full 20c above the base milk price.

“We are incentivising good behaviour and it is leading to changes on farms,” Wyeth said.

Any upgrading of Te Ara Miraka for this season has not yet been determined.

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News

14 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

French plan to copy Kiwi dairy Colin Ley

RIVALS? The French want to massively expand their milk production and while they don’t want more New Zealand dairy products in Europe they want to sell more of theirs in traditionally Kiwi markets, especially China, Idele research leader Benoit Rubin says.

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FRENCH dairy farmers are gearing up for an expansion of output over the next few years with the success of New Zealand’s milk production system being used to guide and inspire the next generation of producers.

“The average dairy herd in France is currently around 70 cows, which is obviously very small compared to the United Kingdom, Ireland and the Netherlands,” French dairy specialist Benoit Rubin, told Farmers Weekly.

“We’re now starting to see herds of 100-300 cows emerging, however, alongside development plans which include the potential for a substantial expansion of both dairy production and export sales.”

Rubin, the dairy research leader at Idele (L’Institut de l’Elevage), France’s livestock research and development organisation, spoke after heading a high-profile industry seminar with the provocative title

Is the dairy sector in New Zealand all-conquering or has it run out of steam?

Addressing more than 300 dairy farm students his core message was they can learn a lot from the way NZ farmers have grown output and exports over the last 20 years.

And they could do with a good dose of NZ optimism.

As for NZ milk running out of steam, he said the Kiwi industry is facing a series of environmental challenges Idele believes are likely to limit production in the years ahead.

“Maybe we’re wrong concerning NZ’s milk production future,” Rubin said.

“The country’s producers have overcome many barriers in recent years, after all, and will probably do so again.

“However, NZ’s rapid development of milk production over the years has clearly had an impact on the environment with water quality, in particular, deteriorating in line with the increase in nitrogen leaching in dairy areas.

“As a result, water availability, greenhouse gas emissions and animal welfare concerns are increasingly debated by associations and public authorities.”

Rubin’s NZ milk presentation took place at SPACE 2018, a massive farm and agribusiness event, spread across 11 exhibition halls, which takes place each September near Rennes in the heart of France’s Brittany region.

Alongside the SPACE seminar Idele has also produced a detailed 37-page report highlighting what French farmers can learn from their NZ counterparts.

Pre-publication research was based on a study visit to NZ in January by Rubin and 11 farm business and scientific colleagues, during which they met farmers, dairy company executives and trade body representatives.

“One of our biggest observations was that NZ dairy farmers are extremely positive and optimistic,” he said.

“Here, in France we’re mainly negative and pessimistic to the extent that the next generation of potential dairy farmers often decide to go into crops or poultry production instead. We need to change that.”

France also needs to overcome the fact that about half its dairy farms are run by groups of farmers or associations.

They work fine when they involve just two or three farmers but not when eight or more producers are involved.

“There tend to be too many chiefs in these larger groups, resulting in constant disputes over what to do next,” Rubin said.

Our expansion potential is enormous.

Benoit Rubin Idele “It’s also not good for young people starting out in dairying.

“We have a rich farming environment, especially in Brittany, with good soil, plenty of rain and excellent grass growth.

“Our expansion potential is enormous.

“We just need to find new ways to inspire and train the next generation.”

Rubin believes NZ’s use of sharemilking is a production model French farmers should consider, to give new farmers a low-cost way into the industry.

With his mind set on helping French dairy farmers expand Rubin was asked how he views the prospect of a new free-trade deal being agreed between the European Union and NZ. “My personal view is that it won’t be good for French dairy farmers, especially if it results in increased NZ dairy products coming into Europe.

“What, after all, will NZ agree to buy from us in return?

“It’s a very big question for us, certainly, especially as we already have problems in our internal market with milk and milk product consumption falling both in France and in Europe as a whole.

“I’m sure we will increase our milk output in the future but any growth we manage to achieve will need to be based on exporting more around the world, especially into China.

“It definitely doesn’t include increasing our imports.”

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News

16 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

Time nigh for big Fonterra shrink Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz INVESTORS in Fonterra Shareholders’ Fund units have to be patient and cautious but Fonterra’s 2018 results mark a change in direction and approach, First New Zealand Capital research head Arie Dekker says.

A persistent critic of Fonterra’s performance and disclosures, Dekker said new chairman John Monaghan and interim chief executive Miles Hurrell had begun with good intentions.

He highlighted those intentions in a note to FNZC clients published after Fonterra reported its 2018 financial year results, including a $196 million net loss, the first in its 17-year history.

“Fonterra sees the need to address transparency, take a hard

look at current positions, with reviews under way and ultimately deal with the big issues – lifting performance, retaining farmers and focusing on the core co-op, with any extension matched with capital, capability and openness.”

It would appear the time is coming for Fonterra to scale back its ambitions.

Serious consideration should be given to simplification of the business and Dekker favours shrinking around core competencies and capital capacity.

There appears to be some

alignment with the needs of farmers for greater capital flexibility.

Fonterra needs to address the net returns associated with investing in value-add capacity in the absence of New Zealand milk supply growth.

The forecast reduction in capital expenditure this financial year to $650m is a step in the right direction.

“It would appear the time is coming for Fonterra to scale back its ambitions, pick some key areas in which it can win and ensure that it is well placed to deliver on the core requirements of its farmer shareholder base – to be a strong co-operative.”

Dekker identifies the non-core activities as Fonterra Australia, its operations in Latin America, the China Farms and the Beingmate investment.

SCALE DOWN: Fonterra should get rid of its overseas assets, First New Zealand Capital research head Arie Dekker says.

In its review the company needs to look carefully at the incremental earnings on more investment in value-add versus the earnings generated on default commodity production using existing capacity.

The past six years of Trading Among Farmers saw significant investment funded through borrowing that did not result

in any growth in cashflow or earnings, Dekker said.

In the note FNZC upgraded its rating of FSF from underperform to neutral with a target price of $5.09.

It factored in earnings per share increases to 36c, 45c and 53c in the next three financial years respectively, resulting in forecast dividends of 20c, 27c and 32c.

New man for Fonterra Brands job Hugh Stringleman hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz FONTERRA has appointed experienced fast-moving consumer goods executive Brett Henshaw to run Fonterra Brands New Zealand.

He is managing director of Griffin’s Food Company and won’t begin at Fonterra until the first week of December.

A New Zealander, Henshaw’s 30 years of experience includes time with Unilever and CoalgatePalmolive in Sydney, Singapore, New York and Britain.

Former Fonterra Brands leader Leon Clement left earlier in the year and is now chief executive of Synlait.

Fonterra’s results for the 2018 financial year showed the NZ consumer and food service business is underperforming, providing a big contribution to the divisional earnings falling by 10% to $525 million.

In the Oceania region including Australia consumer and food service earnings fell by $20m to $67m.

Gross margin was down from

22% to 20% and volume fell 5% to 1656m litres after a 9% fall the previous financial year.

“Volumes were lower in NZ due to operational challenges while Australian volumes of cheese and butter grew,” the company said.

In China food service products greatly out-sell consumer products by nine times.

NZ earnings fell because of higher costs relating to its new distribution centre.

A new breakdown in divisional volumes, margins and earnings showed consumer products were three times the size in Oceania compared with food service products.

In China food service products greatly out-sell consumer products by nine times.

However, consumer volume grew

by 24% with strong growth in all Anchor products.

Anchor UHT has become the number one imported brand, both in e-commerce and off-line sales.

Total consumer goods sales worldwide took 3152m litres, with nil growth, while food service accounted for 2438m litres, up 6%.

Those categories represent 12% and 11% respectively of Fonterra’s total sales volume of 22.2 billion litres in FY2018.

For volumes of consumer goods the biggest geographical region was Oceania at 39% followed by Asia, 36%, Latin America, 20%, and China, 4.5%.

For food service sales China was well in the lead with 52% followed

by Asian markets, 26%, Oceania, 17%, and Latin America, 4%.

Gross margin in food service declined by an alarming amount, down from 22% to 16% because of the relatively high milk price input costs for making food service products.

Consumer gross margin fared better, at 28%, with new product launches in Asia and the revitalisation of the Anlene brand.

NEW MAN: Kiwi Brett Henshaw is bringing his vast overseas experience to Fonterra to fill the Fonterra Brands leadership role vacated earlier this year by now Synlait chief executive Leon Clement.

Fact

0

Towers/ Hockey/ Smeaton Whatawhata Research Station 1983

FE stops here

LK0094201©

Will Jackson Phone 07 825 4480 william@piquethillfarms.co.nz

“2% of clinical cases of FE in your ewe hoggets will lose you 25% overall lifetime performance of that age group of sheep.”

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

17

Fund offers non-farm options Richard Rennie richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz ZIP-LINING above farm bush remnants, sheep milking and eco camping might all be beneficiaries of a $1.5 million fund launched to help Rotorua landowners reduce their reliance on pastoral farming and nitrogen.

Landowners in the Rotorua Lakes catchment are under pressure to reduce nitrogen losses by 100 tonnes a year.

The region has a $40 million fund set aside to enable landowners to sell their nitrogen discharge allowance back to Bay of Plenty Regional Council by switching to less intensive nitrogen uses.

Separate, but linked to the policy, the $1.5m Low N Fund is intended to deliver options for land use, rather than mitigate existing land uses.

“When it comes to mitigation, some of the existing mitigations are not quite enough in this catchment and it is a challenging catchment because we do not have a great level of diversity in terms of land use,” the council’s principal advisere Anna Grayling says.

“It is pretty much all pastoral as sheep, beef and dairy.”

That had prompted the authority to encourage landowners to think outside the square about what else their land could be used for in a way that reduces its nitrogen footprint.

The catchment includes 26 dairy farms and two years ago the first farmer signed up to the nitrogen payment scheme.

Since then 20 tonnes of nitrogen has been secured from 12 landowners.

“This fund is really about trying to drive larger changes in the catchment than just around mitigation. It’s about seeing how we get people trying to do something completely different.”

Farmer Neil Heather said it

VISIONS: Bay of Plenty Regional Council adviser Anna Grayling expects farmers to come up with a wide range of new concepts for alternative land uses.

remains to be seen how many landowners will come up with alternative uses for their properties.

Many are eying the Environment Court hearing scheduled for early next year when some critical decisions are to be made about iwi land ownership rights and possible impacts on all farmers’ nitrogen rights.

It is a challenging catchment because we do not have a great level of diversity in terms of land use.

Anna Grayling Bay of Plenty Regional Council Grayling said while there were multiple reports that could be published on alternative land uses, farmers are going to be more inspired to change if they are

given the chance to pursue ideas they have themselves or follow another farmer who has a similarly inspiring idea.

“And they are more likely to follow someone next door who has done it than out of a report.”

Grayling said there is no model being followed for developing the new concepts and she expects a wide range of options.

Some inspiration came from Canopy Tours, an award-winning zip-lining company that takes tourists above the bush on a flying fox.

“Those areas of native bush that farmers may not have thought were worth much could actually lend themselves to this sort of tourist business.”

Options for alternative species planting have also been mooted, with a nut species similar to macadamia showing some potential in the region.

The council is also getting interest in sheep milking as a low-nitrogen pastoral operation that has already proved itself in the similarly sensitive Lake Taupo catchment.

TOO EARLY: Farmer Neil Heather says some farmers are waiting for the outcome of an Environment Court hearing before deciding the future of their farms.

Grayling said the fund does not intend to provide a green light to any type of alternative income scheme dreamed up by landowners and requires a true alternative use of the land.

“For example, you could not simply line up and say you were seeking to start a brewery instead of farming. It might, however, be different if you were also growing hops on the farm while also brewing.”

“And it is not about spending hundreds of thousands of dollars to get going. It is more about getting an indication of where we could go.”

She hopes to see applications for manuka oil growing and processing and kawakawa plantations.

The fund has a minimum funding level of $10,000 with those greater than $200,000 requiring additional funding.

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News

18 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

Plan change adjusts farm nitrogen losses IT MIGHT take till early to mid 2019 before farmers in the Manawatu-Wanganui region have their nitrogen leaching limits reset to the latest version of Overseer, after most were unable to achieve the original targets.

The proposed plan change 2 comes as council policy makers work to align the nitrogen leaching limits with what is the eighth iteration of Overseer since the leaching limits were first calculated in 2007.

The latest version increases leaching limits by 60%.

Last year the council was told by the Environment Court it had to refuse consent to farmers unable to restrict nitrogen leaching to the totals laid out in the One Plan’s original Table 14.2 nitrogen leaching limits.

“The figures were tied to Overseer’s version 4.0,” council chairman Bruce Gordon said.

“We are now up to Version 6.3 and there is a need to have those figures recalibrated.”

The implications are for farmers in land use classes one and two to see their cumulative maximum leached nitrogen move to 45-51kg a hectare a year, up from 27-30kg/ ha a year.

What they have come up with is as good an option as we are likely to get.

Richard Morrison Federated Farmers By year five that limit will have moved from the original table’s estimate of 25kg/ha a year allowable, to 40-46kg/ha a year.

Originally, most farmers in the region, also known as Horizons, couldn’t meet the original Table 14.2 figures, despite the plan intending to improve water quality within the means of most farmers.

Gordon said the changes will realign the plan’s leaching limits with the most up-to-date science but do not mean more nitrogen will be going into the region’s river systems.

Measurements taken by the council found some declines in nitrogen levels in waterways, with no increases approaching 60% that latest Overseer calculations estimate.

That indicates losses to the rivers are about the same but the amount converted to nitrous oxide gas is greater than originally estimated.

All information relating to the plan change will be with Environment Minister David Parker by November and Gordon expects it will be formally in place by early to mid-next year.

Once sorted, the next challenge will be Plan Change 3, and a key part of that will be to address the issue around market gardeners’ ability to meet nitrogen leaching limits and problems around Overseer being able to effectively measure those losses.

KEEP AN EYE OUT

for Dairy Farmer in your letterbox from October 1st.

With milking underway and peak supply soon upon us, October is a good time to address udder health issues and ensure that cows are well prepared for the remainder of the season.

With the Effluent Expo coming up in November, we take a look at effluent and compliance so farmers can see if they are getting it right.

Our On Farm Story this month features Dan and and Gina Duncan from Northland, the 2018 Dairy Industry Awards Share Farmer of the Year title winners as we take a look at their winning formula.

NEW LIMITS: An Environment Court ruling means nitrogen leaching amounts in the Manawatu-Wanganui region will be lifted by 60%.

Many are leaching nitrogen at double the rate of some pastoral farmers and next year’s Plan Change 3 should give them formal consent to continue, subject to progressive reductions in nitrogen leaching levels over 20 years.

Federated Farmers ManawatuRangitikei president Richard Morrison said the plan change came after Horizons had been in a difficult position, and he hoped the change did not end up getting pushed back into court to re-litigate.

“What they have come up with

is as good an option as we are likely to get.

“The original plan was pretty forward-thinking, to put nitrogen numbers into a table, but the science has moved on and that only reflected what was known at the time.”

Plan Change 3, signalled for next year, will bring even broader impacts on the region with the need to address issues around nitrogen losses from market gardens.

That in turn raises issues about how committed the region will remain to produce production.

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

19

Better pay shortens Aussie stay Tim Fulton timfulton050@gmail.com KIWI shearers might soon be earning enough to make Australia a four-week stopover instead of a long stay, New Zealand Shearing Contractors Association president Mark Barrowcliffe says.

Better pay across the Tasman and around the world has created a roaming workforce of NZ shearers, making it harder for farmers and contractors here to recruit, train and retain staff.

Kiwi and Australian shearers have long enjoyed easy twoway movement but it’s mostly been one-way traffic because of NZ’s inferior piece rates and entitlements.

Some NZ shearers have been shuttling back and forth for decades – and a fair number choose to make Australia a permanent home.

The association’s recently recommended 25% pay rise for shearers and wool handlers could stem the flow, Barrowcliffe said.

He employs a seasonal peak of 30 shearers and about 20 wool handlers from a base at Pio Pio in King Country.

The new pay and conditions mean it is nothing to go to

Australia for a good, four-week stint and Australians might now be tempted to come to NZ for a short stint too, he said.

An advertiser in the most recent issue of Shearing magazine, Taihape and Taumarunui-based Mackintosh Shearing, said the business is paying the new rate plus the 3% employer Kiwisaver and there is lots of work ahead from November to the end of March.

The all-up payment for shearers is $2.05 a sheep, paid in full weekly, comprising $1.67 for ewes and lambs plus holiday pay, gear allowance, Kiwisaver and travel with breakfast and smoko provided.

“Plus, you get paid statutory holidays: there are six stats over the period (Christmas, Boxing Day, two at New Year, Anniversary Day and Waitangi Day). So that’s up to six days you get paid to have the day off. Add that in and you are doing very well.”

The firm, whose owner Ewen Mackintosh is an executive member of the association, said its pay rates for experienced shed staff are between $21 and $27, plus 20 minutes/day for paid rest breaks, plus 8% holiday pay, plus 3% Kiwisaver.

Additionally, wool handlers get

STAY HERE: Shearers and wool handlers are now getting paid more to get them to spend more time in New Zealand.

paid an extra $3/hour when they work a ratio of two shearers to one wool handler.

“It’s good money,” the ad said, adding “Life here is fully catered” by two base cooks, with a help-yourself breakfast, home-cooked smokos and lunch to go with the crews followed by dinner at the end of the day.

The accommodation is $25 a night, including that breakfast and dinner. The cost of van travel to work is covered and all the

Grazing Wanted

vehicles tow covered gear trailers.

Barrowcliffe said while NZ shearers’ work conditions have improved, one of the biggest changes for contractors is the introduction of compliance for holiday entitlements and the like.

The old pay system was like sheep running out the woolshed into the yards.

“Every time one went out the porthole you got paid for the whole sheep.”

Shearers are still getting a piece

rate but statutory holiday pay and other entitlements are calculated separately. It isn’t ideal for running a shearing business because no one can predict an average day’s pay based on piece rates, nor is it easy to record running records like entitlement to sickness or bereavement leave.

“You don’t know how big the rump of the sheep is or the head.

You don’t know how big (the entitlement) is until it falls due,” Barrowcliffe said.

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News

20 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

One Kiwi on award list

GOING CONCERN: Processing has started at Alliance’s Lornevill deer plant.

Plant shows Alliance is serious about deer PROCESSING has begun at Alliance’s new $15.9 million venison plant at Lorneville in Southland.

The first deer went through the plant last Monday.

Once operating at peak capacity the plant will employ about 60 people.

It has improved handling facilities and an enhanced configuration.

The slaughterboard, boning room and offal area are larger than those at Alliance’s venison processing facilities at Smithfield and the company’s former Makarewa plant.

Alliance chief executive David Surveyor said “This investment ... shows how serious we are about strengthening our presence in the deer industry.

“We are delivering on our strategy of investing in maximising our operational performance.

“The opening of this plant also reflects our commitment to continuing to invest in New Zealand’s rural communities.

“We are proud of our Southland roots and we employ more than 2000 people in the region alone.

“Lorneville is an important

part of our processing network and an important contributor to the co-operative’s success.”

Alliance is working hard to capture greater value for Pure South venison in the co-op’s global markets, Surveyor said.

“In addition to marketing venison in Germany and Europe for the game season we are selling into the United States and United Kingdom markets with value-added propositions.

“Our goal is to increase outof-season chilled consumption while at the same time continuing to grow sales of our seasonal chilled venison.”

SIX young agriculture professionals from both sides of the Tasman have been named for the Zanda McDonald Award.

Now in its fifth year, the award recognises innovative young professionals in agriculture from across Australasia.

Five Australians and one New Zealander have been shortlisted for the 2019 award based on their passion for agriculture, strong leadership skills and their vision for the primary industry.

Grant McNaughton, 34, the managing director of McNaughton Farms in Oamaru, North Otago, is the sole New Zealander.

Interviews for the shortlisted applicants will be in Brisbane later next month where nine judges will reduce the group to three finalists.

Networking group Platinum

Primary Producers chairman Shane McManaway said the judes are all really excited.

“The calibre of applicants for this year’s award has been superb.

“All six demonstrate great ambition and leadership skills, a desire to improve the industry and an unwavering passion for the ag sector.

“The Zanda McDonald Award is all about helping agriculture’s future leaders unleash their career potential for the greater good of the industry.

The three finalists will be named towards the end of the year and will be invited to attend the PPP Conference in Port Douglas in May. The winner, who gets a $50,000 prize and mentoring package, will be named at the event.

LONELY: Only one New Zealander has been named among the six people on the shortlist for the Zanda McDonald Award.

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Situated 700 metres above sea level on the eastern side of Lake Pukaki in the South Island, Braemar Station covers 4,100 hectares. Temperatures can drop to B -15 degrees Celsius in the winter, and it is not uncommon to be feeding out for 120 days during this time. Long dry periods in summer culminate in frequent droughts.

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

21

KiwiRail backs up on fees Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz

RETREAT: KiwiRail has backed down on threats to charge farmers $750 a year for inspecting rail crossings.

Virus takes the top off rabbits Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz A NEW strain of rabbit-killing virus has achieved average kill rates of 34% in Otago and 40% in Canterbury.

Otago Regional Council environmental monitoring and operations director Scott MacLean said kill rates over the 100 sites in the province vary from zero to 80%, the range attributed to the degree of natural immunity in the

wild rabbit population.

The RHDV1 K5 strain, a Korean variant of the RHD virus illegally released in 1997, was released in autumn and MacLean said some farmers hoped for a repeat of the devastating knockdown the initial RHD virus achieved.

But that was never going to happen because the population’s inherent background immunity.

“K5 was never going to be a panacea.”

MacLean said the council had encouraged farmers to continue conventional control with the virus taking the top off the population.

The council is a member of the New Zealand Rabbit Co-ordination Group, a collaboration of regional and district councils, the Conservation Department, Land Information New Zealand, the Ministry for Primary Industries, Landcare Research and Federated Farmers.

KIWIRAIL has backed down from elements of its proposed policy to manage private crossings of the rail corridor, including the $750 annual inspection fee it was going to charge neighbouring landowners.

The inspection fee will now be cost-recovery, estimated at $50 to $100 a crossing every second year and landowners will be responsible for maintaining the safety of the crossings.

The process will allow KiwiRail to accumulate a formal, legal record of all crossings but farmers will be responsible for the cost of any safety work, such as removing vegetation and maintaining the surface of the crossing.

KiwiRail general manager strategic land use Stephanie Campbell said private land owners were responsible for undertaking any works on their land related to level crossing approaches or maintenance of sight lines.

“For safety reasons KiwiRail must undertake all works within the rail corridor, recovering any costs associated with works to a private level crossing.”

Federated Farmers president Katie Milne supports the new policy saying she appreciates KiwiRail listened to its views but it could mean some informal crossings will close.

“It’s good that KiwiRail will only charge actual costs and that KiwiRail is formalising farmer use of rail crossings, which provides farmers with

some certainty they can continue to use them.

“However, there is a concern that some informal rail crossings will be closed because the safety concerns are considered insurmountable.

For safety reasons KiwiRail must undertake all works within the rail corridor, recovering any costs associated with works to a private level crossing.

“That’s going to be difficult for farmers if that was their only route for accessing parts of their farm,” she said.

KiwiRail’s investment, planning and risk group general manager David Gordon estimates there are about 1300 private crossings of which about 700 are undocumented or unauthorised.

“There will now be no set annual fee as was proposed two years ago. Instead, most farmers will be charged only the actual cost of the inspection of any crossings on their land.

“That is estimated at $50 to $100 per crossing, with inspections every two years.

“Farmers will be responsible for the cost of any work needed make sure the crossing is safe to use,” he said.

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News

22 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

Kids share farm, science, nature Ross Nolly EDUCATION and learning can come in myriad forms.

Bob and Karen Schumacher are providing classroom-based, in the field and mentor-based learning experiences for local school students on their 192-hectare property at Purangi, in the heart of east Taranaki farmland and forest.

Their property is the base for the East Taranaki Environment Trust.

The trust covers 13,000 hectares and is home to 3500-4000 western brown kiwis.

Predator numbers have been controlled to such an extent 20 kokako were recently released to initiate a sustainable breeding population.

The trust was founded by a group of Purangi landowners to protect kiwi by developing a community conservation project called the Purangi Kiwi Project.

The project has shown the children just how much science is used on a farm.

Louise McLay East Taranaki Environment Trust In mid 2017 preparations began to fence an area of the Schumachers’ wetland and to build boardwalks and benched tracks throughout it.

The aim was to give local school children the chance to study, monitor and record the wetland ecosystem as it flourishes under the trust’s protection.

Local volunteers and students from Francis Douglas Memorial College built the facilities, which were completed a year ago.

“Having the college involved was a beautiful synergy between the young, gangly boys and the practical, no-nonsense older men.

“It was really nice for the boys to come out and acquire many practical skills,” the trust’s environmental education and community engagement coordinator Louise McLay said.

“The volunteers were already

involved in the project and seemed to get an energy boost when they knew they were doing something for the kids whereas the students knew that they were contributing to the community and at the end of the day they could see what they’d achieved.”

The wetlands project was initiated through Venture Taranaki’s Curious Minds Participatory Science Platform.

“The platform is designed to encourage communities, particularly young people, educators and scientists, to work together on collaborative science projects to enthuse people and inform them of the role science plays in their lives,” Curious Minds co-ordinator Josh Richardson said.

“The projects we fund must be very collaborative and foster community engagement in the science and research projects. This project ticks all the boxes” Kaimata Primary School was enthusiastic about studying wetlands so McLay proposed a wetland science project.

She noticed how the college students relaxed when they arrived at the property where there is no cell phone coverage or other distractions.

“The adolescent boys and volunteers have a quiet, masculine sense of humour. If a lad got a little out of line one of the older men would make an understated comment that quickly pulled them back. I absolutely feel it was like Celia Lashlie’s Good Man Project, where good men mentor young men.”

Volunteer Allan Phillips enjoyed seeing the look on the students’ faces when they arrived. It was the first time many had visited the back country.

“We weren’t there to do the work.

We were there to show them how to do it and let them complete it.

We were out there for six hours one day and it was great seeing them so excited and interested.”

Another volunteer, Henry Brown, said “When we were fencing I heard one of the kids say ‘They even teach us how to do it.’ They were so appreciative.

“Many of the kids had never put a post in, let alone line it up to the wire, check its height then staple the wires.”

AT WORK: Egmont Village Primary School students replanting the wetland.

PAY ATTENTION: Egmont Village Primary School students listen to Louise McLay explain their study methods.

Photos: Ross Nolly

CONCENTRATE: Egmont Village Primary School students Alex Moore and Emily Steele study environmental samples.

Kaimata was the project’s pilot school.

When Farmers Weekly visited it was Egmont Village Primary School’s years seven and eight classes’ turn to receive a back country experience and the chance to get wet and muddy sampling the wetland ecosystem for research and recording.

McLay takes five classroom sessions before each visit where the students study all aspects of a wetland ecosystem.

“We don’t have an opinion about land use. We just aim to show them what’s happening here. We acknowledge that this project is a success due to the practical input from the surrounding farming community.

“The project has shown the children just how much science is used on a farm.

“They now understand that so much of farming is data collection, observation and monitoring.

“They thought science was somebody wearing a white coat locked away in a laboratory.”

The project is so popular Egmont teacher Tracey Priest had extra parents offering transport for the day.

“Having an expert like Louise come into class leading up to the

visit has been excellent.

“So much comes out after she’s left when it stimulates a great deal of discussion” Priest said.

“It’s well worth visiting the project and sharing the knowledge with this younger generation so they can eventually share it further.

“The parents enjoyed being there just as much as the kids did.”

When the students visit the wetlands they’re allowed to get wet and dirty and are given the chance to solve their own problems.

“It’s been a wonderful freedom for them to come out here and get muddy,” McLay said.

“It was so great to see their beaming faces when they found a baby koura.

“Karen and Bob have been wonderful at making the community feel welcome here.

“It’s been a joy and a real privilege to be part of this wellsupported community project.

“It’s a very public, accessible, practical project where people can see the results.

“We always tell people who attend our events that they are always welcome to return, which makes them feel like they have some ownership in it.”

Have a go ANY farmer can start a project like the East Taranaki Environment Trust, its co-ordinator Louise McLay says.

It doesn’t have to be a large one.

It might be a small wetland that needs planting.

And a local school might welcome the chance to participate in it and maybe even use it for an educational research project.

“I think that the community and those retired, practical men should never underestimate how much they can contribute.

“There are so many children who don’t have a good bloke in their lives.

“I think it is really empowering for kids to know that there are groups like this out there for them and a little goes a long way,” McLay said.

News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

FarmIQ on cusp of big burst of growth Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz

Lambs help school

What farmers actually need is something that meets all the compliance requirements in one place.

Chief executive Darryn Pegram.

end of this year and 10,000 by the end of next year, in part because of the profile of Farmlands and its use by farmers supplying Synlait.

FarmIQ was spun out of the Red Meat Primary Growth Partnership that started in 2010 and ended last year.

The Government and partners invested $25 million in FarmIQ. Its shareholders are Farmlands, Silver Fern Farms (30%), Pamu (30%) and Veterinary Enterprises (10%).

Pegram said growing compliance demands are overwhelming paper recording systems and farmers need a concise, easy-to-use, recordkeeping system.

“What farmers actually need is something that meets all the compliance requirements in one place.”

Most of the data required for compliance and farm management can be filed by phone but Pegram said the key factor is the ease of inputting and accessing that information to meet the requirements of councils, government departments and processors.

WAITUNA West School children in Manawatu raised almost $8000 for school camps and resources after fattening and selling 118 lambs.

Families raised two or three lambs each over the winter and they were sold at the Feilding sale yards last Monday, netting good prices. The pupils were there to see the sale and even got involved in the auction.

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FarmIQ is an electronic data management platform that allows farmers to manage information as varied as grass growth and staff time sheets, assist with farm planning, compare performance and manage specific tasks such as health and safety and environmental and other areas of compliance.

It has grown about 70% a year for the last three to four years and expects to hit 5000 users by the

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News

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

25

Killer moths to attack horehound Neal Wallace neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz MOTHS can be imported from Australia to control horehound, the Environmental Protection Agency has decided.

A plume moth could be nibbling the leaves of plants as soon as November while the more aggressive horehound clearwing moth breeds only once a year so its release could be a year or so away.

Tekapo farmer and Horehound Biocontrol Group chairman Gavin Loxton said the moths have successfully controlled the weed in Australia and given conditions here are wetter he is quietly confident they will perform better here.

The moths, which still must go through quarantine, provide a two-pronged attack.

The larvae of the plume moth feed on the leaves, weakening the plant, while those of the clearwing moth feed on the roots.

Sheep won’t eat horehound, which is estimated to cost farmers about $7 million a year from contaminated wool.

It significantly infests lucerne crops when dormant over winter, reducing the lifespan of the crops.

It is widespread in dry areas of the South Island, Wairarapa, Hawke’s Bay, East Coast, Bay of Plenty and the Chatham Islands.

What they consider a huge problem is nothing compared to what we have.

Gavin Loxton Farmer Since being introduced 20 years ago the moths have reduced Australian infestation to a few unhealthy plants in the corner of a paddock compared to thousands of healthy and thriving plants spread throughout NZ. “What they consider a huge problem is nothing compared to what we have,” Loxton said.

Such has been the Australians’ success it is logical to use their research, knowledge and ease of access to source the moths.

The moths will have to be distributed manually because they don’t spread far naturally.

Loxton hopes to involve schools to spread them.

Judging by the success of biological controls for ragwort and nodding thistles he wants to see a significant reduction within five years.

The Horehound Biocontrol Group is a collective of farmers who led the application, which was supported by the Primary

NOT WELCOME: Horehound infestation in South Island’s Mackenzie Basin. Photo: Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research

Industry Ministry’s Sustainable Farming Fund.

EPA hazardous substances and new organisms general manager Dr Fiona Thomson-Carter said 40 submissions on the application were received with 39, including the Department of Conservation and MPI, in favour.

A firm that produces medicinal products using horehound opposed the application because harvesting the weed might become difficult if biocontrol agents are released.

GOOD NEWS: Caterpillars of the horehound plume moth in Australia.

Seven farmers up for DairyNZ board SEVEN farmers are standing for one seat on the DairyNZ board.

Levy-paying dairy farmers will vote from October 1 for their preferred candidate.

The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting the governance and leadership of DairyNZ. Electionz.com returning officer Anthony Morton said farmers will have until October 30 to cast their votes.

“This election provides dairy farmers with a chance to vote for the candidates they feel will provide the leadership and direction they’d like to see on the DairyNZ board,” Morton said.

“So we encourage levy paying dairy farmers to look out for the vote pack in the mail from early October and to take the time to learn more about the candidates and cast their vote.”

The candidates are Steve

Atkinson, Wardville, Tim Barrett, New Plymouth, Tracy Brown, Matamata, Greg Mitchell, Napier, Mike Montgomerie, Cambridge, Andrew Robb, Greymouth, and Jacqueline Rowarth, Tirau.

DairyNZ’s board consists of five farmer-elected directors and three board-appointed directors.

This year’s farmer-elected director role is vacant.

The second 2018-19 election is for DairyNZ’s directors’ remuneration committee.

One nomination has been received for the position, so no election will be held.

The successful candidates for the board and committee will be announced at DairyNZ’s annual meeting in Invercargill on October 31.

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26 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

Newsmaker

MPI staff put in the hard yards Everyone working in the Mycoplasma bovis response is human and the going has been tough for officials just as it has been for farmers. Annette Scott caught up with Primary Industries Ministry response director Geoff Gwyn at the control centre in Wellington.

I

N HIS day job with the Ministry for Primary Industries Geoff Gwyn’s responsibilities lay in his position as readiness and response director.

That was until the cattle disease Mycoplasma bovis was notified in July last year.

“That kind of changed my day job when the M bovis response kicked in.”

As the enormity of the exotic disease incursion emerged Gwyn’s time quickly became absorbed virtually full time into the response.

Both his working and personal spaces were affected and his life was turned around, much like an infected-property owner.

The biggest challenge he faced he likened to sitting in the dentist waiting room.

“Nobody likes that. We know it’s a horrible experience.”

But that was the reality of the first few months.

From July last year to this May MPI and the industry worked tirelessly to gather enough information to make an informed decision for the ongoing future of the response.

The human element of that accountability is really important but it does have an impact.

Geoff Gwyn MPI “We had to get enough information, knowing we didn’t have all of it, to make the best decision possible given the money ($800 million) we were talking.

“It meant we were not able to give farmers the answers they wanted as we worked through whether eradication was an option.

“We just couldn’t get that certainty to farmers who, rightly so, were concerned about their families and their livelihoods.

“That was a really tough time for me.

“Like the dentist waiting room it was a shit of a place for all those caught up in it.

“There was robust criticism.

“It was tough for me and my teams.

“Everyone working in the response is human and they are passionate about what they do, well aware of the public expectation.

“The human element of that accountability is really important but it does have an impact.”

For the past 14 months Gwyn has started his day at 6am, spending the first two hours on emails and paperwork then backto-back meetings, many involving travel around the country, from 8am till the last meeting ends.

“And many of my team members are working those same hours – 60 hours a week, six days a week.

“There’s a period of time at the expense of family and personal life when that (robust criticism) is difficult to take.

“We are only a human being, only in this job to make a difference and very passionate about what we do too.”

Gwyn spent 25 years as a police officer in Auckland, Hawke’s Bay and Wellington.

He’s spent time in Afghanistan and Timor training police but nothing quite prepared him for the impact of the last 14 months.

MPI was not a sector he was familiar with when he made the career move eight years ago.

“But it was a sector really easy to see the importance of and, for me, while it’s been really tough this past year, it’s been a fantastic career move.”

Over the eight years with MPI Gwyn has been in a variety of roles, starting out as a border manager before taking on the director’s role of the joint board of management systems.

He went on to set up the intelligence, planning and coordination directorate of MPI before readiness and response were brought together across the board including food, biosecurity, primary production and trade systems.

He now runs all the responses of MPI and readiness that includes Government Industry Agreement (GIA) partners.

The critical point for the M bovis response came in May with the decision to proceed with phased eradication.

“Whether everyone agrees or disagrees it brings certainty and that’s been the fundamental difference.

“We now have certainty and what we are doing is trying to keep every option open.”

The joint decision making with the industry, including DairyNZ, Beef + Lamb NZ, dairy companies, Federated Farmers, the Veterinary Association and industry investment from DairyNZ and B+LNZ made a huge difference at a crucial time.

“The industry buy-in made it a truly joint venture around the decision-making and I can

BUSY MAN: As the Mycoplasma bovis response management takes a new tack the Primary Industries Ministry readiness and response director Geoff Gwyn looks forward to getting back time to spend with his family.

honestly say that industry senior officials knew as much as I did and with that same information the decision was unanimous.

“That industry buy-in really did help confidence and to give encouragement.

“I believe it (phased eradication) was a realistic decision. There’s no 100% guarantee but with the information we had we knew we had a good chance here.

“I feel very comfortable I have the best skilled people in all our response teams providing us with absolute scientific advice.”

The results of the spring bulk milk testing are reinforcing the choice to eradicate.

“The results we have in so far are indicating to us that there’s no large cluster or network out there that we haven’t found.

“We are very much pursuing eradication and everything we are seeing to date indicates we are on the right track.

“But it’s not finished yet.”

North Island farmers can expect their spring milk testing results on November 1 and the South Island on November 15 with MPI scheduled to present a formal progress report of the eradication programme to Cabinet in December.

Gwyn said the response has been a huge learning curve for the whole country.

“We’ve learnt along the way as a country about how our biosecurity systems don’t mitigate risk perhaps as good as they should.

“It’s raised some risk behaviours and opened a lot of discussion about the resilience of our systems and its management practice.”

Dairy farming will change, in particular for calf rearing, graziers and stock yards.

“I’m not saying these are all stuffed but it’s opening up conversations. They all still have a place but may look different.”

Gwyn said the vehicle for change needs to be driven by farmers and the industry.

“Industry comes up with the game plan and we might be able to come up with the regulatory framework to make it work.”

Under Gwyn’s direction a permanent M bovis directorate is being established with recruiting for a director under way.

But tough as it’s been over the last 14 months Gwyn has no desire to leave MPI. “Setting up a permanent M bovis directorate is the only way I will get my day job back to business as usual.

“I’m not running away and saying good luck.

“I will sit alongside but it will get me off full time M bovis.”

And hopefully free up time to spend with his family, including four children aged four to 17 years.

“I am looking forward to some more relaxing time with family.”

New thinking

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

27

SOLUTION: Otago University researcher Dr Lynette Brownfield is looking for a cure for pollen abortion in kiwifruit.

Kiwifruit abortion fix sought Kiwifruit have a rather complicated sexual structure. Neal Wallace talks to Dr Lynette Brownfield a lecturer at Otago University’s biochemistry department about kiwifruit reproductivity and how new research could have farreaching implications for growers.

R

ESEARCHERS are looking for a solution to stop pollen abortion in female kiwifruit plants.

Orchardists will no longer have to plant 10% or more of their vines as non-fruiting males to assist with fertilisation if the three-year Otago University-Plant and Food Research project succeeds.

They have got nearly $1 million from the Government’s Endeavour Fund to determine the cause of pollen abortion.

Potentially, using this knowledge for breeding means selecting offspring from parents that both have great quality fruit.

Dr Lynette Brownfield Otago University Dr Lynette Brownfield, a lecturer at Otago University’s biochemistry department, said crops such as grapes initially relied on male and female plants for fertilisation but breeding selection over thousands of years meant they evolved to no longer need male plants.

Unlike grapes, kiwifruit have not evolved or endured selection pressure, meaning they have remained dioecious.

So orchardists plant nonfruiting males and employ beekeepers to put hives in orchards to complete the pollination and fertility cycle.

Kiwifruit do not produce nectar so bees are reluctant pollinators while extensive protection means airborne pollination is not an option.

Flowers on female kiwifruit plants initiate pollen development but the pollen is aborted before maturity.

The flowers on the male plant start forming female organs but they are also aborted early.

Brownfield hopes to use knowledge acquired from genetic and molecular research into plant fertility to try to stop the abortion with the focus on female plants.

“The aim of the project is to really understand the cause of this abortion, that maybe something has not developed as it should happen, such as a protein not being turned on.”

By monitoring gene expression from the plants Brownfield hopes to get a hint at what is happening genetically before it happens, which could provide a solution.

Having females that produce pollen in orchards means the male plants could be removed and growers would no longer need to manage bees for pollination thus reducing costs, increasing yields and improving land-use efficiency.

Another part of the project will look at what male plants contribute to kiwifruit production.

Traditionally, breeders have focused on female production traits to improve productivity, fruit size and quality but Brownfield said it has been more difficult to determine what males contribute.

That knowledge could potentially lead to breeding new varieties or for traits such as the volume of pollen expelled, fruit size, productivity and quality.

Using gene markers breeders can select for desired production attributes.

“Potentially, using this knowledge for breeding means selecting offspring from parents that both have great quality fruit.”

A hermaphrodite kiwifruit has been bred but is not yet commercially viable.

Meanwhile, researchers at the North China University of Science and Technology’s life sciences school say the fact today’s kiwifruit have as much vitamin C as an orange is caused by the fruit’s ancestors spontaneously duplicating its DNA. They have determined that this happened in two separate events 50 to 57 million and 18-20m years ago.

In a report published in the journal iScience, study author and agricultural plant scientist Xiyin Wang said it was caused by a polyploidy event, in which thousands of extra gene copies were produced over night.

“These extra copies may greatly elevate the robustness of the plant, providing opportunities for natural selection to prune and

rewire its biological system over time.”

Kiwifruit shares a common ancestor with coffee and grapes and Wang and his team of scientists compared the genomes of all three plants and found the kiwifruit genome often contains four or five copies of a gene in areas where coffee and grapes have only one.

Those extra genes in the kiwifruit include biological instructions for creating and recycling vitamin C. Wang said that helps kiwifruit evolve by aiding growth and resistance to damage.

In contrast coffee’s evolution was to produce caffeine and grape its purple pigment to protect the plant from extreme temperatures.

Opinion

28 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

EDITORIAL

Heat taken out of rural land market

I

F IT was the Government’s intention to take the heat out of the rural property market by tightening rules around foreign ownership then it appears to have succeeded.

As we report this week, the new rules introduced last December have effectively removed foreign buyers from all but a select few areas of the farmland market, contributing to an easing in prices.

The Government’s directive, issued to Land Information last November, said New Zealand farmers are the best in the world so any outside investment has to meet a higher economic and productivity threshold.

Forestry has been treated more leniently with the Government saying it requires greater levels of investment over a longer term.

The stricter criteria foreign investors must now meet also mean their proposals must have more measurable and defined economic benefits than previously and that has forced a shift to more boutique business ventures.

Many of these observations were based on anecdotal evidence but the common consensus is the higher economic benefit means a foreign investor can no longer buy a farm and continue to operate it as before or a lifestyle block.

There is agreement the conversion by an offshore investor of a sheep and beef farm to dairy could be approved but buying a high-country farm and promising to open access and donate money to local projects won’t.

While at least part of the easing in land prices is attributed to the tighter rules, questions remain over the impact of the policy on existing foreign landowners, especially those who own expansive holdings or large-scale, high-country stations who might want to sell.

Their size and cost, the higher threshold for foreign investors and limited development options mean the potential buyer pool is small.

The impact of the changes will please the nationalistic instinct of some and those looking to buy land but in doing so has it locked up in foreign ownership forever some of our largest and most expensive land holdings?

Neal Wallace

LETTERS

Give your workers some love IT WAS very encouraging to see two articles in the Farmers Weekly to do with farmers needing to up their game with getting and keeping staff.

My husband has been working on sheep and beef farms for the last 25 years and we have often discussed the lack of young people coming into the industry or being put off by the employment conditions they have had to work in and live in.

We have experienced numerous times the long hours and lack of thought put into looking after staff who do not have a vested interest in the farm but are willing to put in the extra effort to keep your farm running well.

Your staff can be your greatest asset or your greatest burden.

It’s not that hard to keep

staff happy – warm housing, regular time off, regular holidays, good pay and appreciation of a job well done.

The nature of farming is that sometimes it’s all weathers and all hours, however, if your employee has had to put in long hours and many days work all in a row to get through lambing, shearing, etc, don’t expect them to immediately want to just carry on the next Monday.

Give them a break of a day or two to spend time with family or friends. Or a small Christmas or birthday bonus, just something to show that you appreciate the extra effort they have put in to help you keep things going.

We also have had the privilege of working for some outstanding farmers and farm managers who have gone the extra mile to see that we

are happy in our workplace, who have appreciated the commitment and skills we have brought to the position and it has been a pleasure to go the extra mile for them.

I also know of stories where the employer has been taken advantage of, however, I believe they are in the minority and should not colour how your next worker should be treated.

Long gone are days when young people so wanted to work on a farm they would put up with substandard conditions.

I encourage all farmers and farm managers, if you get the opportunity to attend a seminar or course on workplace relationships, do it. It might be the best money you spend all year.

Ridiculous

Irene Graham Ashhurst

Sally Everett Collingwood

IN YOUR article No farm complaints warrant prosecution (September 17) the Primary Industries Ministry states it cannot provide comparable data from previous years because it has a new database.

In 2018 that statement is ridiculous.

Are they seriously saying they no longer have access to their previous records?

Maybe they should have stayed with a paper filing system – you don’t normally toss out all the old information when you get a new database.

Databases are about comparing information, which must be difficult without the historical records.

Letterof theWeek EDITOR Bryan Gibson 06 323 1519 bryan.gibson@globalhq.co.nz EDITORIAL Stephen Bell 06 323 0769 editorial@globalhq.co.nz Neal Wallace 03 474 9240 neal.wallace@globalhq.co.nz Annette Scott 03 308 4001 annette.scott@globalhq.co.nz Hugh Stringleman 09 432 8594 hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz Alan Williams 03 359 3511 alan.williams@globalhq.co.nz Richard Rennie 07 552 6176 richard.rennie@globalhq.co.nz Nigel Stirling 021 136 5570 nigel.stirling@globalhq.co.nz

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Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

29

It’s time to change farming Steve Wratten

A

FEW years ago I asked a successful Swedish dairy farmer to define his farming philosophy.

“I am an ecosystem services provider and a photosynthesis manager,” he said.

Our Swedish farmer didn’t know it but he was talking about sustainable intensification (SI) – a philosophy New Zealand farmers should be paying attention to.

Agriculture contributes about 40% of NZ’s GDP but is operating in a volatile environment.

For example, we are continually threatened by new invading pests such as the tomato-potato psyllid (TPP). This bug feeds on plants in the tomato and potato family, causing leaf yellows and reduced yields. Potato growers use up to 18 insecticide sprays each season to manage TPP and since it arrived in tomato greenhouses insecticides have largely replaced biological control of pests such as whitefly and aphids.

However, recent work in the United States shows insecticides often fail to protect crops. A study found pest populations in corn (maize) reached 130 a square metre when insecticides were used but only 10 a square metre under non-pesticidal ecosystem service approaches.

This may point to a sea-change in the way we deal with pests.

Our use of fertiliser is another area under scrutiny.

To make, transport and apply 1kg of urea takes the energy equivalent of a single-bar electric heater burning for eight hours. As well, much fertiliser ends up in rivers and the sea, contributing to water pollution.

Our export markets are adding to the pressure for change.

The European Union has banned almost all outdoor uses of neonicotinoid insecticides because of the effects on bee behaviour.

However, neonicotinoid residues have been found in nearly all of the honey samples including NZ manuka honey

The

Pulpit

taken globally by a Swiss research group.

Elsewhere, the weedkiller glyphosate (Roundup) has been found in muesli bars. The quantities might be very low but consumers say they don’t want any pesticides in their food.

Indeed Swiss people have recently lobbied successfully for a total ban on all synthetic agrichemicals, likely to become law in coming years.

Many people say NZ agriculture can help feed the world as it approaches a population of 10 billion. But what are the fossilenergy costs of sending food to Africa or southeast Asia and how feasible is this for our freshproduce industries?

The world is watching us.

The best way to increase food production in poorer countries is to export knowledge, not food.

The work of Bio-Protection Research Centre doctorate students (funded by NZ Aid) is already making a knowledgebased difference in their home countries of Guyana and Nepal.

China has recently declared it is reaching the limits of increased rice yields so there has been a nationwide directive to grow more potatoes.

With TPP almost certain to pounce on these Chinese potatoes, our work in developing

GREEN: Softening the environmental impact of lettuce fields in California, with alyssum to provide nectar and pollen for beneficial insects that control aphids.

Photo: Ramy Colfer biological control might help the Chinese to grow this crop.

All of these issues come together in sustainable intensification – an agricultural system that maintains or increases valued outcomes while enhancing or at least maintaining environmental outcomes.

Yes, we can have our cake (and tomatoes and potatoes) and eat it too.

There are three ways to do so: reduce, replace or redesign.

To be honest, the first two, which are small changes to what we do now, are likely to have little impact on the agricultural challenges we face.

Instead, we need to take a deep breath and ask ourselves: How do we design our farming practices in a more sustainable way?

Changing the fundamental way

and establishing policy measures to scale SI further.

Globally, the tipping point has arrived and the winds of change will get stronger.

Given the increase in consumer demand for sustainably produced food, the challenge is for NZ farmers is to join the movement sooner rather than later.

Your View

The Bio-Protection Research Centre is a centre of research excellence funded by the Government. It was established in 2003 to drive innovation in sustainable approaches to pest, pathogen and weed control. The centre has six partner institutes: AgResearch, Lincoln University, Massey University, Plant and Food Research, Scion and Canterbury University, with members throughout NZ.

Got a view on some aspect of farming you would like to get across?

The Pulpit offers readers the chance to have their say. nzfarmersweekly@nzx.com Phone 06 323 1519

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DIRECTION: Professor Steve Wratten of the Bio-Protection Research Centre says agriculture is at a tipping point.

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The home of leading agribusiness news. farmersweekly.co.nz

in which we produce our food is not the pipe dream of an effete academic.

Rather, new work published by the centre and an international team in Nature Sustainability shows 163 million farms, 29% of all farms worldwide, have crossed a redesign threshold, practising forms of SI on 453 million hectares of agricultural land. As one example, lettuce growers in California’s Central Valley are now sowing strips of the common garden plant alyssum in their fields to encourage the beneficial insects that eat aphids.

Key challenges for NZ farmers include investment to integrate more forms of SI into their farming systems, creating agricultural knowledge economies, developing pathways to implementation so they get the recipes they need at the right time

Opinion

30 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

Feedlots can save the planet Alternative View

Alan Emerson

I GOT a media statement recently from the Animal Law Association.

It surprised me a little because I know lots of lawyers I’d describe as animals but having their own association?

I had a lawyer mate in Christchurch who actually had the nickname Animal. He made the character on the Muppets look good by comparison.

It also appears you need animallike traits if you’re a male and want to get ahead in a big-city law firm.

So, it initially appears lawyers with animal-like traits have formed their own association, possibly as a counter to the archly conservative Law Society.

It would make sense but alas, no. The Animal Law Association (ALA) is anti-feedlot and wants the Primary Industries Ministry to take action over alleged breaches of the Animal Welfare Act by farmers using feedlots.

It claims animals can’t graze on grass on feedlots and have no shade or protection from the cold and that is a breach of the Act. “Here we go again,” I thought.

More headline-seekers with little to do, interfering in the productive rural sector.

Feedlots are the hot topic with fringe groups and there seems to be a queue of predictable characters saying their bit or, should I say, moaning their platitudes.

SAFE, never one to let the facts get in the way of a good story, wants feedlots banned.

Its head of campaigns, one Marianne Macdonald, told us there are animal welfare issues feeding grain to cattle.

My counter is that grain has been fed to cattle since Adam rode the range and there have been no animal welfare issues I’m aware of.

In addition the Five Star Beef feedlot, the one SAFE illegally flew over, has been around since 1991.

I’m sure if there were any animal welfare issues the practice would have been abandoned long ago.

She might also be aware there are 25 to 33 million American cattle fattened on grain each year.

That is about 10 times the total number of beef cattle fattened in New Zealand.

If there was any problem feeding grain I’m sure they’d have found out by now. After all, they’ve been raising cattle on feedlots for almost 90 years.

Not to be outdone in the stupidity stakes the ubiquitous Fish and Game came riding onto the range guns blazing.

Feedlots are at odds with attempts to clean up our

GREENER: The Scientific American says grain-fed beef has a lower environmental footprint than pasture-fed cattle.

waterways was its bleat.

Chief executive Martin Taylor had the bit between his teeth.

“One of the indictments on NZ is that we identify an issue, which is erosion and sediment, and then turn a blind eye to what’s causing it. And one of the things causing it is feedlots,” he said.

That had me stuffed.

The feedlot in question is on the flat. Erosion is on hill country.

Further, I can’t for the life of me see how the Five Star feedlot can in anyone’s wildest dreams put sediment into any waterway but, then again, factual argument isn’t something Fish and Game is known for.

It was interesting following the debate.

Beef + Lamb NZ chief executive Sam McIvor gave an incredibly weak defence of feedlots.

If I was Anzco and having contributed millions to B+LNZ’s coffers I’d be miffed.

The quote for me was from Feds meat and wool chairman Miles Anderson who described the gang from SAFE as a group of vegan fundamentalists.

He added SAFE’s agenda is to get rid of farmed animals. Animal welfare is a secondary concern for it and it would do them the world of good to have a nice leg of lamb.

What can I say? He holed it in one.

Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor launched in on the side of right saying “NZ would be crippled if it listened to everything SAFE said” and “SAFE has to live in the real world”.

I agree and why the media continue to give publicity to SAFE’s emotive rants is beyond me. Maybe they need a nice leg of lamb as well.

Then we read from the Greens that cattle are floundering in mud on feedlots. Matey, I’m floundering in mud and we’re understocked.

It’s been an extremely wet winter.

A mate described feedlots as the Koru Club of the beef industry.

Her reasoning is sound.

“They feed you as much as you want, they water you as much as you can drink, they clean up your mess after you and send you on your way.”

There was an article in Scientific American telling me grain-fed beef has a lower environmental impact than grass-fed beef.

Maybe someone should tell SAFE, Fish and Game and Auckland’s animal lawyers.

The answer is simple. If we want to save the planet we need more feedlots. That could be our contribution to Conservation Week.

Your View Alan Emerson is a semi-retired Wairarapa farmer and businessman: dath-emerson@wizbiz.net.nz

Be careful when talking about stock losses From the Ridge

rural or rural-friendly readership.

We understand what we do, what we can do and the realities of life.

To our city-dwelling compatriots our businesses and experiences Steve are an alien concept compared to Wyn-Harris how they live their own lives.

Shows like Country Calendar are terrific in giving them a glimpse into our sector but they can be forgiven for thinking we are mostly horse-riding, organic farmers LAST week I wrote about thestorm living in a world where the sun that ravaged the east coast of the always shines and the scenery North Island and the impacts is breathtaking, such is the proclivity and mastery of the producers of that show.

Just after the storm I had a radio interview to do so I rang my mate Lon Anderson who is the regional co-ordinator for the Rural Support Trust and asked him if he’d had any media training in how to talk about lamb losses without talking about lamb losses.

He was perplexed at my reasoning to begin with and said no. Later he told me that Taupo Western Bays Farm Manager Lance Aldridge has used Gleniti not long after he, too, was Romney Rams for over 25 years. He says their consistency and reliability has rung for media comment and produced top performing ewes whose fertility is outstanding and given our conversation was impressive. more guarded than he would We’ve had the highest scanning ever despite going through two droughts back to back. have been.

We keep going back because it works. It’s about performance and profit in a harsh Last week a reporter wrote environment including, snow ice and summer droughts. about the lambing storm on a general website.

Several of my own readers Bill Hume 06 307 7847 pointed me in the direction David Hume 06 307 7895 of the resulting comments.

Gleniti, RD 2, Featherston There were a lot of them LK0094041©

on many people’s lambing.

I wrote: I’ve been a little guarded on my own radio show and in interviews on others as to the stock losses as we need to be more careful in what we say to a wider audience. We are under enough scrutiny now without inviting it upon ourselves.

So, I didn’t dwell on numbers lost because, with 130,000 readers, there will be a range of opinions and thoughts on the matter. But this is a rural publication with a

“

”

and most weren’t favourable.

I don’t partake in social media as life is too short and there are more fulfilling activities to be had and reading through the opinions, beliefs, suggestions, bitterness, ignorance and anger I’m pleased with that decision.

Much of it was driven by a genuine concern for the welfare of stock but their lack of understanding of the realities of life, nature and farming mean they had a naive and simplistic view of the issue.

There were more rational views trying to point out how things actually work and they were from folk who were farmers themselves or had lived in a rural environment.

Many of the city folk wanted to know why we lamb at this time of the year and not later towards the summer. Their wish for a later lambing overlooks that this year August was a benign month and great lambing weather and I still remember a very bad storm in October that caused many stock losses a couple of decades ago.

They couldn’t understand why we didn’t build shelters in every paddock or bring them back to barns like they do in the northern hemisphere.

One wag countered that when Aucklanders take in the 700 homeless they have in their own city he would house his stock.

Many of them used the event

as an example of why animals shouldn’t be farmed or used for any purpose at all.

That website did follow up with another piece explaining the reasons why farmers do what they do but that still attracted a great deal of vitriol.

We know from our scanning results and what is weaned what the loss rates are.

Last year I had the absolute perfect lambing with very few ewe and lamb deaths, good weather, good feed levels and my own management was good, even though I say so myself.

And yet when working out the losses I was disappointed to have 20%. But that included triplets with a flock scanning well over 200%. When I worked it out but counted the triplet ewes as carrying twins, it came in as a very low 6%.

Most of those are born dead so there is nothing we can do to get that any lower.

And, yet, the fervent social media commentators still find that unacceptable.

We must keep working on strategies to improve survival and be mindful of the audience in our dealings with mainstream media.

Your View Steve Wyn-Harris is a Central Hawke’s Bay sheep and beef farmer. swyn@xtra.co.nz

Opinion

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

31

Fonterra is facing a constrained future The Braided Trail

Keith Woodford

FONTERRA’S loss of $196 million for the year ended July 31 has left nowhere for its board to hide.

Wisely, it has chosen to take the loss on the chin.

So it has completed jettisoning former chief executive Theo Spierings.

Two of its most experienced directors, John Wilson and Nicola Shadbolt, are also going.

Fonterra plans to now take stock of the situation before charting a path to the future. However, its latest communications at farmer meetings emphasise debt reduction.

New chairman John Monaghan has been described to me as a black and white sort of a guy.

That might be exactly what Fonterra needs, someone who calls a spade a spade and cuts through the public relations massaging that bedevils Fonterra.

One of the biggest problems with public relations massaging is directors become prisoners of the company line.

Directors need external networks to tell them what is really going on in the company and its markets. For those who have such networks there are no surprises in the situation as it has evolved over the last few years.

The starting point for moving forward is to understand something of the current situation.

Fonterra’s accounts are always opaque but some progress is being made. This year’s improvement has been to separate out some but not all of the consumer-product measures from food service. I have been calling for this for many years.

In recent years Fonterra has been making excellent progress

with some food service products.

They are branded ingredients often sold directly to food manufacturers. Mozzarella cheese is one such example.

The problem with food service is that although branded, the products are essentially sold on technical formulation and price.

Accordingly, it is much harder to defend a leading position in food service than it is in consumer goods.

This year has seen markedly reduced margins in food service related to increased competition from other suppliers but also influenced by high commodity prices for milk.

Gross margins on sales declined from 21.7% to 15.7%.

There is some prospect the margins can be increased but probably only at the expense of commodities.

It is evident commodities and some other ingredients are propping up the overall business.

Let there be no doubt, it is commodities that still drive overall profitability of the New Zealand dairy industry through farmgate prices so we don’t want those going south.

Fonterra is struggling with its consumer goods and that will, in all likelihood, continue.

It is the area where Fonterra’s public relations massaging has done the most damage. We all hear about the successes but the mis-steps get hidden away.

Fonterra now claims to be the biggest marketer of imported UHT milk in China. That is indeed an impressive feat.

Alas, it does not compensate for all the other consumer products that are struggling.

One important product that is missing in action is infant formula

in China. Fonterra does not even register in most Chinese infant formula surveys.

Fonterra relies on Australian and Chilean sales for much of its consumer products income. Both are proving challenging markets and could become more so.

In Australia there is lots of competition for farmgate milk and in Chile it seems Fonterra is losing market share.

Fonterra reports its overall gross margin from consumer goods as 27.9%, down from 29.2% the previous year.

As students of accounting will know, there are two big steps from there to a final profit. The first is to add the marketing and administration costs to get an earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) figure. Then there is interest to be paid on the loans that financed the business development. Those figures are not provided.

Though separate net profits of food service and consumer products are not provided, Fonterra does provide a normalised income figure of $525m for the combination. That is with so-called abnormals such as the Beingmate fiasco scrubbed out.

The overall message from this normalised earnings for food service and consumer products is that it is insufficient to allow for a fair share of unallocated company costs of $493 million plus net finance costs of $416 million, and still provide a significant net contribution.

Fonterra’s China farms have made a stated earnings loss this year of $9m EBIT. However, that is not the real loss.

First, it is necessary to add in another $30m the ingredients business lost by buying the milk well above market prices then selling it at a loss. That brings it up to $39m loss before any interest is charged. Production has also declined this year, apparently linked to effluent management issues.

Shareholders will recall

FALSE ECONOMY? Bonuses let Theo Spierings count $8 million in his pay packet last year but were the result of short-term gains that often lead to long-term losses.

Spiering’s $8m payout in 2017 was because of the big cost savings he had made over the previous two years, which led to him getting big bonuses.

Well, as can so often be the case with cost-cutting, short term gains lead to longer-term losses.

It seems that is exactly what has happened, with normalised costs going up 7% this year.

What else is buried in the accounts?

The headline figure of $183m that Fonterra had to pay Danone was not the final figure.

Fonterra had to pay Danone an additional $49m to cover interest and Danone’s legal costs. Those details are in the small print on p102 of the annual report.

Fonterra also advises in the small print the Danone saga might not yet be complete. It said “It is unclear whether Danone will continue to pursue the NZ High Court proceedings that were stayed pending the decision in the Singapore arbitration. Due to the uncertainty regarding whether Danone will seek to re-initiate these proceedings and the nature and scope of these potential proceedings in light of the arbitration findings and award, no amount has been recognised in relation to these proceedings.”

Another unknown is the amount that can be recovered from the Beingmate fiasco.

The shares are valued in the books at $204m but no-one really knows whether they have any value.

Among all the problems, surely, there have to be some successes apart from UHT milk to China and mozzarella?

Well, I am still looking.

The most obvious strength at Fonterra is that it is a very efficient processor and marketer of commodities. And that is just as well given all the other issues.

This year’s losses are borne by the balance sheet. It is not only the losses that have to be carried but also the $160m of dividends paid out in April.

Interest-bearing debt is rising and is now $6.9 billion.

Fonterra’s total liabilities, including money owed to trade and farmer suppliers, are $11.7 billion.

That leaves only $6.3b of equity and means the squeeze is now on, with further borrowing options now restricted.

That is why Fonterra faces a constrained future.

Your View Keith Woodford was Professor of farm management and agribusiness at Lincoln University for 15 years to 2015. He is now principal consultant at AgriFood Systems. He can be contacted at kbwoodford@gmail.com

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Opinion

32 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

Multi-pronged approach to strategy Meaty Matters

Allan Barber

SINCE announcing its environment strategy in May, the Beef + Lamb New Zealand team responsible for developing the plans, processes and tools to help farmers achieve the ambitious goals of being carbon neutral by 2050 and every farm having an active farm plan by 2021 has been working flat out to get the right farm planning systems in place.

The strategy identifies four areas of focus – cleaner water, carbon neutrality, thriving biodiversity and healthy productive soils – with their own specific goals and a detailed implementation plan supported by a series of what are termed foundations.

Initially, there are two foundations that explicitly rely on participation of individual farmers.

The first is helping farmers navigate the myriad of farm environment plans out there so they can identify the one that complies with local regulations and is best suited to help them document their individual onfarm environment plan.

The second foundation will encourage the establishment and facilitation of catchment communities relevant to farmers’ local areas.

The remaining foundations have designated areas of responsibility for B+LNZ to support work by farmers. They include extension programmes, decision support tools, research into evidence-based policy, engagement with central and regional government on policy formation and legislation and

LEADER: Vet Anna Nelson, with husband Blair, are past King Country Farmers of the Year. She will now co-ordinate farmers’ environment response for the King Country River Group.

enabling farmer leadership.

When B+LNZ developed its farm planning programme it found it was ahead of the game but a recent review has concluded it is no longer cutting edge, having been overtaken by private consultants’ and companies’ farm planning processes.

The intention now is to enable farmers to prepare plans relevant to their own farms by helping them follow a standard process that will vary between farms and catchment regions.

There will not be a one-size-fitsfarmersweeklyjobs.co.nz all template but a process standard 2IC designed to be Agribusiness regularly updated Assistant Manager on the principle Dairy of continuous improvement to Farm Manager guide farmers Genetic Manager through a series Regional Manager of steps, formShepherd ing a vision or Shepherd/General policy statement, Tractor/Truck/ identifying curMachinery Operator rent and potential environmental imEmployers: Advertise your vacancy in the pacts, assets and employment section of the Farmers Weekly opportunities, deand as added value it will be uploaded to farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz for one month or veloping an action close of application. plan, identifying how progress will Contact Debbie Brown 06 323 0765 be self or exteror email classifieds@globalhq.co.nz nally audited and

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monitored then review and repeat the exercise.

An important aspect of the process will be links to other programmes across the primary sector, in particular the Red Meat Profit Partnership’s NZ Farm Assurance Programme and Sustainable and Ethical Farm Assurance Programme but also with the Good Farming Practice Action Plan and other farm planning work that is occurring.

The intention now is to enable farmers to prepare plans relevant to their own farms by helping them follow a standard process.

This will ensure the minimum amount of duplication because different companies and consultants can be accredited and deliver farm plans for endorsement by B+LNZ. B+LNZ is developing the process standard in co-operation with Enviro-Mark Solutions, part of Landcare Research, and will hold five co-design workshops starting this month involving farmers and other stakeholders to develop a pilot by December for roll-out in the first half of 2019.

National data on the

preparation of farm plans will be recorded and aggregated to enable measurement of progress towards the goal.

The second critical foundation is the community catchment programme linking individual farmers to others in their region, providing peer support and leading to the development of a shared vision.

While not all farms in an area will have the same issues there will be some that affect all farms in a particular catchment and the group can decide on the issues they can most effectively address together.

Ideally, the country will be divided into catchment areas, each of which will have an umbrella entity such as an incorporated society responsible for co-ordinating individual community catchment groups, making submissions to councils and communicating with other organisations like B+LNZ on behalf of the members.

The process of setting up community groups is still in its early days with one example of how it can work in the King Country rivers and west coast catchment.

The King Country River Group was originally established because the farmers in the area felt they were not sufficiently well represented to deal with the Waikato Regional Council whenever the southern and west coast region of the Waikato comes

up for inclusion in a regional plan change.

Anna Nelson, a vet, who, with husband Blair won a past King Country Farmer of the Year, has been appointed as part-time coordinator of the group.

There are 580 farmers in the region and she hopes to set up 13 catchment groups though the initial target is seven, of which three have already had meetings.

Her intention is to contact every farmer in the region to encourage them to join a group though, inevitably, there will be some who don’t want to participate.

She says this model might not suit every region but it works well for the group she is coordinating. Each group member will be asked to pay an annual subscription to cover the costs of the co-ordinator, meetings and submissions.

B+LNZ’s challenge, if it is to achieve its environment strategy goals, is to encourage, firstly, all farmers to develop their own environment plan and, secondly, join a regional community group providing them with support, guidance and robust data on which to base their conclusions.

Your View Allan Barber is a meat industry commentator: allan@barberstrategic. co.nz, http://allanbarber.wordpress. com

World

THE NZ FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

33

Vertical farming takes off

New tracing system is ‘infallible’ BRITAIN’S new system aimed at improving traceability in the English livestock sector could be rolled out for cattle by the end of next year and in sheep, goats and pigs in 2020.

The Livestock Information Service, which will eventually replace movement reporting systems such as the British Cattle Movement Service, will see all livestock data held centrally.

As well as giving farmers and processors accurate, real-time information about animals and their movements using electronic identification (EID) technology, it will also mean the industry and the Government are better placed to respond in the event of a disease outbreak.

Funded by the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs with support from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, the system is unique because it is has been developed by the industry.

National Farmers Union president Minette Batters said it is a great example of what can be achieved from crosssector collaboration and will connect producers, markets and processors.

“A new, multi-species traceability service which can securely share data with others in the supply chain will be totally transformational for the livestock industry.”

There are still a number of details to be ironed out, including how the English system will be linked with those in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

It is thought plastic ear tags will continue to be used.

The Traceability Design User Group was formed in March last year and members include the NFU, Livestock Auctioneers’ Association, British Meat Processors’ Association (BMPA) and the Rural Payments Agency.

BMPA chief executive Nick Allen said the system will provide consumers with infallible traceability.

It will also increase efficiency, sending processors’ data in a more timely manner.

“Some plants operate at a rate of 600 sheep per hour so it has to be quick and this will help increase efficiency,” Allen said.

There is a level of control expected by trading partners and LIS will not only satisfy existing customers but help open up new markets as well, Export Certification chairman Marcus Bates said.

AHDB international development director Phil Hadley used the example of Uruguay, where a similar EID system was introduced in 2006 and has been pivotal in securing new export opportunities.

UK Farmers Guardian

Swine Fever rings alarm bells PIG farmers in France are fearful that if African Swine Fever (ASF) crosses the border from Belgium it will close valuable export markets to China, Japan and Korea for up to three years.

Speaking after the disease was found in two wild boars in Belgium last Friday, French

pig farm leader, Paul Auffray, called for top level collaboration between French and Belgium authorities to keep the disease at bay.

“Early last week ASF was still in Poland and then, two days later, it was just across from France,” he said.

FARM ON A TRAY: Racks of trays on the vertical farm.

“People think this must be a massive user of power but our control systems allow us to balance with the grid within milliseconds so we use the most electricity when there is surplus available,” Aykroyd said.

IGS chief executive David Farquhar said he expects 95% of the company’s technology to be exported.

The first installations are being deployed this year in the United States and he expects the market to grow rapidly to hundreds of facilities.

The Middle East and Singapore are also target markets and China plans 6000 vertical farms in the near future.

French farmers don’t like free trade Colin Ley FRENCH farm leaders are taking a cautious approach towards the European Union’s ongoing free-trade negotiations with New Zealand and Australia.

The country’s main farmers’ union, FNSEA, is already less than enthusiastic about the EU’s fledgling free-trade deal with Canada (CETA) while being hugely negative over the EU’s approach to securing a similar agreement with the Mercosur countries.

So the prospect of the EU negotiating new pacts with NZ and Australia is being watched carefully.

“It’s very difficult for French farmers to compete against imported products which may be totally different in terms of production standards to what we produce in France,” FNSEA president Christiane Lambert said. “They also tend to arrive in the EU with lower prices than we’re able to achieve domestically, leaving our own farmers with big challenges to face under both CETA and Mercosur.”

While FNSEA sees Mercosur as the more dangerous of the two agreements Lambent believes CETA also needs to be watched in terms of production conditions.

French farmers’ experience of CETA and Mercosur is casting a shadow over the EU’s need to strike new deals with NZ and Australia, especially as farm incomes in France remain under pressure.

That was clear from industry comments made when French farm minister Stephane Travert visited SPACE 2018.

SPACE president and local farmer Marcel Denieul told Travert the nation’s farmers are still on the front-line of drudgery almost 16 months after President Macron was elected with the promise of a major reform of farming incomes.

With CETA and Mercosur set to be followed by NZ and Australia, however, farmers in France are still waiting to be impressed by what the French government is doing for its own producers.

The Dundee facility houses four controlled-environment growing chambers in a single tower.

Each chamber holds racks of trays suitable for growing a range of fast-growing herb and leaf crops.

When a crop reaches maturity the tray is removed robotically for transfer to the packing hall.

IGS says the vertical towers could replace greenhouses at about half the capital cost and with huge savings in inputs.

Vertical farming has the potential to reduce water and energy consumption by 50%, food waste by 90% and labour by 80%, it said.

UK Farmers Guardian

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ALL IN: Britain’s animal tracing system will start with cattle next year before including sheep, goats and pigs.

IF VERTICAL farming takes off it might be a case of asking a farmer of the future how many storeys tall his farm is rather than how many hectares it covers.

A demonstration unit unveiled

by Scottish company Intelligent Growth Solutions (IGS) has been designed to prove the technology is now ready for uptake.

The £5 million facility was built constructed at the James Hutton Institute near Dundee.

The challenge now is for plant breeders there and elsewhere to breed suitable crop types.

“It is possible tomatoes with very short trusses would fit this system or strawberries,” IGS founder and director Sir Henry Aykroyd said. The system will also be suitable for producing seed potato mini-tubers.

IGS has rapidly developed from a specialist crop-growing business to a technology and control management company – and the plan now is to market the system around the world.

The key breakthrough was the rapid development of LED lighting over the last 20 years.

Not only is it now much more efficient but the cost has fallen dramatically.

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On Farm Story

34 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

Gold rush is irresistable Cameron Henderson grew up on a dairy farm in Waikato but early in his career he decided dairy farming wasn’t for him. Eight years ago he saw a new light in the industry and joined the gold rush of dairying in a new pocket of Canterbury. His journey to farm ownership has been somewhat of a roller-coaster ride but he has no regrets.

Annette Scott joined him on-farm to hear his story.

C

AMERON Henderson started his journey in the dairy industry working for Fonterra as a business analyst.

Growing up on the family dairy farm in Waikato he’d made the call early that he wasn’t keen on being a dairy farmer.

“As a kid I thought there’s got to be more to an agricultural career than wet, cold and mud.

“That’s why I didn’t want to be a farmer and I’m not a big animal lover – that’s not what floats my boat.

“I went to university and did engineering and finance with plans to climb the corporate ladder. The family farm did give me a good learning ground.”

He didn’t stray too far from his family’s roots in dairy farming, starting out in the industry working in the corporate IT space with Fonterra.

But in 2009 the lure of the dairy gold rush in Canterbury got him thinking of life as a dairy farmer.

“Canterbury seemed the place to be, the land of opportunities with conversions all go in a new pocket of North Canterbury.

“My family had contacts with landowners down there and it all happened very quickly.

“I finished up with Fonterra on a Friday and started on the Monday as a farm assistant with corporate farmers milking 1000 cows at Rakaia.”

He moved from there as a herd manager to take up a 2IC position on a dairy farm at Mayfield in Mid Canterbury and within 18 months of hitting the South Island bought his block of land at Oxford in

North Canterbury in 2011.

With 190 hectares and a clean slate to play with Cameron, with the support of his family, set about converting to dairy.

“It was a clean slate conversion, no houses, no fencing, no water and a shoestring budget.”

The initial years were tough going but Cameron was determined he could make it work.

I want to feel proud about what I do on the farm. I am not hiding anything here. I can show anyone around the farm and not feel guilty about anything they are seeing.

Cameron Henderson Farmer The housing issue was solved with houses from red-zoned Christchurch land following the February 2011 earthquake.

The fencing happened, plans for water and irrigation were pursued then the windfall 2013-2014 milk price payout spike at $8.40/kg MS posed a new opportunity but not without unprecedented challenges.

“We bought the neighbour’s, adding another 48ha but then the drought set in and we didn’t initially get water. It was a struggle.

“Looking back it was optimistic planning but it’s not been all plain sailing.

“There’s been tough times, low payouts, drought years, staff issues – a real roller-coaster.

“It’s taken eight years and finally everything’s lining up to make this farm pay this year. It’s been a great start to the season so far.”

Last season the farm peaked at 700 cows producing 312,000kg milksolids. This season the herd is at 730 cows forecast to produce 340,000kg MS. The farm operates under a lowcost, low-input system.

“We are pretty much a traditional Canterbury dairy farm system working to keep it as simple and as enjoyable as possible for good, cohesive teamwork.”

As the farm operations manager Cameron’s preferred space is in engineering and machinery rather than the day-to-day running of the herd.

He has a contract milker with two staff taking responsibility for the milking and herd management.

Leasing a nearby 200ha property off Sir Bob Charles means the whole farming system is virtually a closed operation.

“The young stock are run here (leased property), the cows wintered here, grass cut, silage made and some crops grown, including growing some crops to feed the neighbour’s cows.

“It looks like a golf course and he wants it to stay that way. This year it’s full of grass so I think we are keeping it right.”

While growing green feed oats

NEW STOCK: Cameron Henderson’s R2 heifers are mated to Murray Grey bulls to provide replacements.

HANDS-OFF: Dairy farmer Cameron Henderson prefers the engineering and machinery jobs over the day-to-day running of the herd.

and feed cereals Cameron is keen to try some different crops as opportunities arise.

Not big and fancy with complicated breeding systems, Cameron uses purebred Murray Grey bulls over the R2 heifers in the farm’s herd replacement programme.

An 11-week AI programme is a part of reducing the risk of disease and stock movement.

With 240ha under irrigation

using three pivots on each farm, with a Roto Rainer on the lease block and 10ha of K-Line on the home farm all water is drawn from deep bores.

“I think we are well set up with the water we will need now and that’s been a big part of the ongoing development over the past eight years, especially accentuated in the drought years.”

Keen to do what’s right as opposed to what’s profitable,

HANDS-ON: Contract milker Peter McPherson, right, has two staff to help with the day-to-day running of Cameron Henderson’s cows.

On Farm Story

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

35

EXPANSION: Now he’s got a paying farm Cameron Henderson reckons it might be time for his next big project – a wife and kids.

Cameron is heavily involved in the environmental and regulatory space.

As a member of the local water zone committee he advocates that farmers need to know the important issues both from a farming and community perspective.

“If we want them to understand our position we need to understand their position.

“Once on that pathway you really do see the environmental development and improvement and there’s a real sense of pride in that.

“I want to feel proud about what I do on the farm. I am not hiding anything here. I can show anyone around the farm and not feel guilty about anything they are seeing.

“And farmers should feel proud of what they do and be happy to explain why it’s good industry practice.

“I have learnt a lot from my involvement on the zone committee. It has helped me on my personal journey to understand the science of the community around me and helped to get others involved.

“That’s the next phase of dairy farming really, environmental debate, communication and education.”

Cameron expressed concern at the division in the wider agricultural voice.

“There’s a lack of collaboration

between all partners in the industry where all individual sectors need to be pulling together to have one unified voice.

“We all need to get a standard for ourselves and be proactive rather than reactive.

“We need bold, courageous leadership.”

When it comes to his community Cameron is playing his part not only with the water zone committee but also as Federated Farmers North Canterbury provincial president.

Being involved in these community groups is an opportunity to keep ahead of the game.

“It’s about helping to find the solutions to issues rather than waiting to be chased up with a big stick.

“Know what’s coming, get prepared and set the farm up accordingly.

“Farmers who don’t get involved are putting themselves and their businesses at risk.”

At 36 Cameron is one of several North Canterbury Feds executive members under the age of 40, something the province has been working towards over the past five years.

Initiated by long-serving Feds member Malcolm Johnston, the Step-Up programme is aimed at bridging the gap between Young Farmers and Federated Farmers.

“I’m hoping now that we’ve got a few of us younger ones involved

we can encourage more young people to become members.

“I am also hoping we can develop some strategies that will help break down the perceived rural-urban divide.”

Not a huge advocate of valueadd, Cameron is keen for milk companies to stick to their knitting.

“We are good at making milk powder and shipping it off around the world. It’s a low-cost, simple system that works for the way we farm here.

“For the long-term sustainability of dairying in NZ the industry needs to rethink the business model.

“Lower land values with higher returns are needed otherwise it will become just a corporate game and the family model will be priced out of the market.”

While dairy cows have had a good run over many years Cameron is open to looking at options.

“Does the farm need to be all dairy? Can we do other stuff?

“I’m keeping an eye on options such as sheep milking or goat milking and growing other crops.

“For me it’s about considering options for diversification to mitigate risk and increase sustainability and future proof business.”

Meantime, having committed himself and everything he’s done over the past eight years to developing a paying farm he

thinks maybe it’s time for a new challenge.

“We borrowed a lot to do what we have done here as a family and I am fully committed personally, financially and socially to make it work.

“Finally, it’s a paying a farm.

“So now maybe my next big thing is a wife and family.”

>> Video link: bit.ly/ofshenderson

OUTPUT: This year Cameron Henderson has 730 cows likely to produce 340,000kg MS.

Whakamaru 548 Mcdonald Road

Ready for the next generation For over half a century on this 200ha (more or less subject to survey) dairy farm, the owner has developed this property ready for the next generation. The farm peak milks 585 cows with an average production over the previous 3 years of 204,000ms. A 40ASHB dairy with an in shed feeding system is situated in the middle of the farm making this an easy walk for the cows. Effluent is spread over approximately 40ha. There is also a grey water system in place at the dairy. The water system is supplied via a single bore with 40mm PVC trenched around the farm in a ring with 32mm to troughs. Approximately 250 calves are reared each year. Whakamaru is known as a great farming district with a close knit community. The farm is only a 45 minute drive to Taupo or a 10 minute drive to the village.

Price by Negotiation View by appointment Stan Sickler 021 275 7826 stan.sickler@bayleys.co.nz WESTERMAN REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/2650933

Oruanui 1443 Poihipi Road

Kinloch view farm

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On every level this 175 hectare (more or less) property will exceed expectations located just 14km from Taupo town centre. Mountain and lake views add an aesthetic value, along with the 51 hectares (more or less) of trees made up of 41ha native and 10ha exotics, all fenced and pruned. Not only does this property fatten stock to very good weights, the current owners are also members of the Taupo Beef brand. The property currently winters 420 cattle approximately - made up of R1yr and R2yr beef cattle and includes approximately 90 dairy heifers per annum. There are extra cattle purchased as the grass growth allows. We believe the property has a “twist” for the next owner to exploit… You may choose to farm, future development or a potential tourist opportunity - just to name a few!

Auction (unless sold prior) 5pm, Fri 19 Oct 2018 Level 1, 38 Roberts Street, Taupo View 11.30am-1.30pm Thu 27 Sep or by appointment Stan Sickler 021 275 7826 stan.sickler@bayleys.co.nz

bayleys.co.nz/2651162

bayleys.co.nz

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WESTERMAN REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Taranaki 1508 Otaraoa Road, Tikorangi

Self-contained dairy and grazing Available is 232ha in two titles with milking, grazing and finishing platforms that offers multiple options and can be sold as a self contained unit or separately. This is a great opportunity to secure a well located farm that benefits from a high standard of improvements and recent maintenance upgrades. These include the main home built in 2009, the 21 ASHB complete with cup removers, new in shed feed system, the 5 bay implement/calf shed and silage bunker. Contour across the Dairy platform is mostly undulating to medium hill with the grazing area running from river flats suitable for finishing to steeper sidlings. The second title comes with hay sheds, woolshed, stock yards, upgraded water system and three bedroom cottage. Purchase a secure self-contained unit with scale or individually.

Tender (unless sold prior) Closing 1pm, Wed 31 Oct 2018 15 Courtenay Street, New Plymouth Open Days: Wed 26 Sep, 3 & 10 Oct 11-12pm Mark Monckton 021 724 833 mark.monckton@bayleys.co.nz

bayleys.co.nz/522771

SUCCESS REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Opunake 461 Ngariki Road

Top dairy farm - option of 164.9ha or up to 233.8ha Seldom do you find a predominantly flat farm with a centrally located cowshed that has all the 'bells and whistles' of this size and calibre in Taranaki. Milking the cows through a 54-bale rotary in only its Fifth season will be a delight. Milk 430 as a 164.9ha block or up to 620 with the full 233.8ha, Protrac, cup removers, two million litres of effluent storage. Add the very good races which get the cows to the shed in 25 minutes or mostly less. A predominately flat 20.2ha grazing block with yards and large shed is also available.

bayleys.co.nz/522534

Tender (unless sold prior) Closing 1pm, Tue 23 Oct 2018 15 Courtenay Street, New Plymouth Open Days: Thu 27 Sep, 4 & 11 Oct, 1-2pm John Blundell 027 240 2827 john.blundell@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz

NEW LISTING

Hawke's Bay Mutiny Road, Hastings

Grow almost anything on 80ha with water Rarely does one get the opportunity to purchase a large 80 hectare (two titles) area of flat land so close to Hastings and Havelock North. The property is currently finishing lambs as part of a mixed cropping regime, with annual crops grown, such as carrots, onions, squash, maize, sweetcorn and peas.

The land has strategic tile drainage and a consent to irrigate, meaning the options to grow almost anything are fantastic. The 3-stand woolshed, sheep yards/cattle yards provide the facilities for efficient livestock handling.

Peat soil types and a good fertiliser history provide the fertility, combined with good water one can grow almost anything. Don't miss the opportunity to secure this large parcel of quality land.

Tender (will not be sold prior) Closing 4pm, Thu 18 Oct 2018 17 Napier Road, Havelock North View by appointment Tony Rasmussen 027 429 2253 tony.rasmussen@bayleys.co.nz EASTERN REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/2851323

Scargill 554 Waikari Valley Road

'Double Hill' 'Double Hill' is a versatile 637ha grazing property with scale, balance and real character. From its picturesque and productive limestone valley and rolling, warm north-facing hill country - perfect for wintering, leading into extremely well-sheltered fertile flats, ensuring a wonderful balance for stock in both winter and summer.

The property features a full complement of infrastructure including a three-bedroom home, cottage, very good woolshed, new centrally located cattle yards, sheepyards and ancillary buildings. Water is via the County Scheme and reticulated throughout. In a great location, situated close to Waikari township, 'Double Hill' is an exceptionally attractive, versatile property with further development opportunity.

bayleys.co.nz/558338

For Sale by Deadline Private Treaty (unless sold prior)

4pm, Thu 18 Oct 2018 3 Deans Ave, Chch View by appointment Ben Turner 027 530 1400 ben.turner@bayleys.co.nz Peter Foley 021 754 737 WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – September 24, 2018

Pipiroa 179 Buchanan Road

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Marlborough 4675 State Highway 63

Large scale Waikato dairy farm, great improvements This dairy operation of 175ha (more or less) is comprised of 4 titles which will leave the new owner with options around potential subdivision. The farm runs on a low System 2 model with 620-630 cows having been milked through the 44 ASHB over the past three years, producing an average of 164,000kgMS supplying Fonterra. In addition is an extensive range of farm improvements and four homes. Situated in a great rural community, under 90km drive north will find you at Auckland Airport.

For Sale

by Deadline Private Treaty

Farming, forestry and carbon

(unless sold prior)

Located within a comfortable 45 minute commute to Blenheim with a five year historical 1010mm rainfall.

4pm, Thu 11 Oct 2018 96 Ulster Street, Hamilton View 11am-12pm Wed 26 Sep Karl Davis 0508 83 83 83 karl.davis@bayleys.co.nz Lee Carter 027 696 5781 lee.carter@bayleys.co.nz SUCCESS REALTY LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/814828

Three purchasing options: 1) Total property 2662ha 2) 2376ha (STS) hill country including 785ha PFSI 3) 287ha (STS) flats, two dwellings, numerous outbuildings Hill country ranging from 290 MASL offering a combination of livestock and carbon farming including forestry and recreational activities. The adjacent flats offer an opportunity for development including viticulture.

Deadline Sale 4pm, Thu 25 Oct 2018 33 Seymour Street, Blenheim View by appointment Andy Poswillo 027 420 4202 andy.poswillo@bayleys.co.nz BE MARLBOROUGH LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

bayleys.co.nz/4132698

Manahune – Breeding and Finishing 8 7 0 G l e n m a r k D r i ve , N o r t h C a n t e r b u r y

A rare opportunity to purchase an outstanding property in an excellent location.

Situated just 65km north of Christchurch, Manahune is a superior and versatile 379.3472 hectare breeding and finishing unit. This year’s flock of 4,100 crossbred ewes scanned 180%. Quality improvements include a four-stand RB woolshed complex and a full range of farm buildings. Two well-maintained and modernised homes set in large established grounds complete the picture.

Ben Turner 027 530 1400 ben.turner@bayleys.co.nz

Peter Crean 027 434 4002 PCrean@pggwrightson.co.nz

Mick Sidey 027 229 8888

Mark Clyne 027 531 2964

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

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, Licensed under the REA Act 2008

McLeans Island 262 Chattertons Road A substantial leasehold block

For Sale by Auction 2pm, Thurs 4 Oct 2018 at 3 Deans Ave, Christchurch bayleys.co.nz/558070

|

pggwre.co.nz/CHR28642

This is an exciting opportunity to purchase a 471.5ha lease-hold grazing property close to Christchurch City. The purchaser will own the interest in the lease and all improvements. The property has 49ha irrigated from a 40 l/second consent and includes a three-bedroom home, two-room sleepout, three-stand RB woolshed and covered yards, implement shed and cattle yards with loading ramp and head bail. It is suited to dairy support, sheep breeding and lamb fattening and would be a great entry-level property, support block or stand-a-lone unit.

bayleys.co.nz/558258

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For Sale

by Deadline Private Treaty (unless sold prior)

4pm, Thu 4 Oct 2018 3 Deans Ave, Chch Ben Turner 027 530 1400 ben.turner@bayleys.co.nz Mike Adamson 027 221 1909 mike.adamson@bayleys.co.nz Peter Foley 021 754 737 peter.foley@bayleys.co.nz WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

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farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – September 24, 2018

#1

RURAL REAL ESTATE BRAND

NEW VIEWING LISTING FINAL

NEW VIEWING LISTING FINAL

RURAL Office 0800 FOR LAND

Property Brokers Limited Licensed REAA 2008

One of King Countrys' finest

NEW VIEWING LISTING FINAL

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

OPEN DAY

FENCE? WEB ID TER61000 PIOPIO 220 Tikitiki Road VIEW Wednesday 26 Sep 11.00 - 1.00pm • 278 ha of which the effective area is 275 ha situated TENDER closes Friday 5th October, 2018 at 4.00pm, Bailey in a renowned farming district being just 7km north of Ingham Accountants, 18 Maniapoto Street, Otorohanga Piopio and 20km south of Te Kuiti • An excellent balance of contour with 50% being Doug Wakelin cropable or mowable Mobile 027 321 1343 • Versatile Maeroa Ash soil type with a sound fertiliser dougw@pb.co.nz history 3 • Subdivided into 40 main paddocks with a very high Hugh Williams standard of conventional fencing Mobile 021 878782 Office 07 8788266 • A summer-safe, spring fed water supply 1

TENDER

hugh@pb.co.nz

FARM WITHIN CITY BOUNDARY

QUALITY DAIRY FARM

DAIRY FARM WITH LIFESTYLE

• This quality property is located on the outskirts of Palmerston North and is 76 hectares in 4 titles including lovely scattered bush.

• Currently milking cows and would be suited to any agricultural activity with resource consent for intensive agriculture along with a recent upgrade to the cowshed effluent system.

• Facilities include a 16 aside dairy, machinery shed, good hay shed.

• With silt loam soils this could be a great chance to add a forage and heifer block to your current dairy business.

• Call Les on 0274 420 582 to inspect.

• Your opportunity to own this quality dairy farm in full production.

• Situated in Northern Horowhenua and very well laid out with central laneways, rotary dairy and 600 cow feed pad.

• 170 hectares in three titles with a great mix of Kairanga silt loam and Pukepuke sandy loam soils.

• There are three good family homes in their own sections.

• Our vendors are looking to retire and have priced this property to sell at $7.5 mil land and buildings.

• Call Les on 0274 420 582 to inspect.

• Have you ever wanted to go fishing in between milking? Well this is your chance to do just that.

• This 525 acre property located in the central Horowhenua has all the features that you and your family would love.

• A good mix of flat to rolling contour that has the ability to winter cows.

• Modern herringbone dairy along and nice five bedroom family home.

• With growth in this area who knows how great this farm could be as an investment in the future.

• Call Les on 0274 420 582 to inspect.

Sallan Realty

Looking for the complete package?

2480RE90X265

We’ve got you covered with digital and print options.

Contact Shirley Howard phone 06 323 0760, email shirley.howard@globalhq.co.nz

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate

Google ‘Sallan Realty’ Your Farm Sales Specialist

CALL 0800FARMTEAM Licensed Agent REAA 2008

LK0094357©

pb.co.nz

RURAL rural@pb.co.nz 0800 FOR LAND

Property Brokers Limited Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008

Maranoa

DEADLINE SALE WEB ID WR63528

CENTRAL HAWKES BAY 256 Takapau Ormondville Road • 305 ha deer/finishing unit • 25km west of Waipukurau in the heart of the Takapau Plains, is arguably one of NZ's preeminent deer units.

• Home of the nationally recognized Maranoa Sire Stag Sale • All flat contour • Free draining soils • Large retired wetlands • Water reticulated to all paddocks • Deer fenced into 60 paddocks • Accessed by wide laneways

• Main homestead plus second home • Large deer shed and selling complex • Presently breeding and velveting • Suited also to lamb or bull finishing • Faithfully farmed by the same family for 50 years • Maranoa will be available for viewing from 22nd September with an open farm 2.00pm 28th September 2018

DEADLINE SALE

VIEW By Appointment DEADLINE SALE closes Wednesday 7th November, 2018 at 4.00pm

Pat Portas

Mobile 027 447 0612 Office 06 928 0521 Home 06 855 8330 patp@pb.co.nz

Bevan Pickett

Mobile 027 220 2766 Office 06 928 0520 bevanp@pb.co.nz

Finishing with location

Irrigated Dairy plus Run Off

OPEN DAY

WEB ID WR62530

BY NEGOTIATION CENTRAL HAWKES BAY View By Appointment 406 Tuki Tuki Road, Ashley Clinton • 19 km west of Waipukurau • 135 ha Dairy platform (120 ha irrigated) • 165 ha Run off • 375 Cows 174,300 kg/MS average last 5 years • 30 a/s shed with in shed feed system Pat Portas Mobile 027 447 0612 • Two homes, numerous farm buildings Office 06 928 0521 • Excellent fertiliser history Home 06 855 8330 • Purchasing options available: patp@pb.co.nz • 300 ha, platform and run off (The Lot) • 135 ha platform - great value at around $35k/ha Bevan Pickett • 165 ha run off Mobile 027 220 2766 • A great opportunity at an affordable value.

Office 06 928 0520 bevanp@pb.co.nz

pb.co.nz

+ GST (IF ANY)

WEB ID TER62512 TE KUITI 154 State Highway 3 VIEW Wednesday 26 Sep 1.00 - 3.00pm • 274 ha of which 250 ha is effective with balance being TENDER closes Friday 5th October, 2018 at 4.00pm, Bailey Ingham Accountants, 18 Maniapoto Street, Otorohanga in native bush • An excellent location being just 1.5km south of Te Kuiti on SH 3 • Good mix of contour. Subdivided with a high standard Hugh Williams of conventional fencing Mobile 021 878782 • Reliable spring fed water pumped to a manicon then Office 07 8788266 gravity fed around the farm hugh@pb.co.nz • High standard of structural improvements which 4 includes a four bedroom homestead, an additional three bedroom dwelling, 4 stand woolshed with covered yards Doug Wakelin and a new set of concreted cattle yards with a double Mobile 027 321 1343 1 dougw@pb.co.nz level load-out

TENDER

42

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – September 24, 2018

Accelerating success.

Reach more people - better results faster.

colliers.co.nz

TURNING FARMING COMPLEX I T Y I N TO

OPPORTUNITY Our Rural & Agribusiness clients expect the full resources of Colliers International behind their projects, so to accelerate their success they work with one property company with every property expert.

Unlock a world of expertise by taking one small step talk to one of our experts today.

colliers.co.nz/farming

Accelerating success.

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – September 24, 2018

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

43

Kaitaia, Mangonui & Hokianga Tender – 332 Kaitaia Awaroa Road, Kaitaia Sitting on Kaitaia’s town boundary this 176ha dairy farm is now for sale.

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Great infrastructure with a 28 bail rotary, eight bay implement, calf rearing and hay shed and excellent soil Three bedroom plus sleep out family home is very tidy and fitted with two heat pumps to keep the family warm Averaging 215,000kg/MS over the last three years with the help of a 68ha lease of the neighbouring land Town water supply plus two bores leaving endless options, including horticulture and subdivision potential

Tender 112 Commerce Street, Kaitaia Closes Wednesday 31st October 2018 at 12:00pm Open Farm Days October 7 & 21 2018 10am - 2pm

LK0094180©

Hazely Windelborn Mob: 021 955 716 Bus: 09 408 1670 hazely.w@fnn.co.nz

Windy Realty Ltd 112 Commerce St

0800 112 397

www.realestatenorthland.co.nz/FNN10094 Licensed under REAA (2008)

Accelerating success.

Reach more people - better results faster.

Newstead 385 Marshmeadow Road STUNNING LIFESTYLE & PROFITABLE BUSINESS

colliers.co.nz

After 38 years in the making, my retiring vendors now offer an opportunity for new owners to reap the rewards of their fastidious attention to detail and blueberry growing techniques, so you can also enjoy a great lifestyle and superb financial income.

This 7.47 ha property grows approx. 5,400 plants all under plastic houses and owner designed covers to avoid the devastating elements of the weather.

Last season harvested 68 tonne of fruit, increased production is expected with an exciting owner bred new variety. Sold as a Going Concern which includes excellent machinery, executive 4 bedroom home and an array of other infrastructure. View the website or contact Noel for a property compendium. Viewing strictly by appointment.

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Deadline Private Treaty Thursday 11 October 1:00pm Harcourts Morrinsville (Unless sold prior) View By Appointment Only www.harcourts.co.nz/ML4109

Noel Smith

AREINZ

RURAL SALES CONSULTANT

M 027 448 0331 | P 07 889 8200 E noel.smith@harcourts.co.nz www.harcourts.co.nz Kevin Deane Real Estate (Morrinsville) Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008

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farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

FLAT, FREE DRAINING & ATTRACTIVE Cnr Sandon Block Road and SH 54, Vinegar Hill, Hunterville Situated just north of Hunterville, this stunning 80 acre property is only 2.5km off SH1. Soils are Kawhatau series; very free draining silt loams over gravels, ideal for wintering cattle.

Enjoying an excellent fertiliser history, the young pastures are divided with very good quality post and batten fencing and central lane. Livestock and domestic water is gravity fed from a spring. The four bedroom home and attached 2.5 car garage, has two living areas, with kitchen and bathroom renovations.

Hunterville school bus passes property. Other improvements incl. good sheds and cattle yards. See video on website.

Real Estate

32.52 hectares Auction nzr.nz/RX1605701 Auction 2pm, Thu 18 Oct 2018, Feilding Club, 25 Kimbolton Road, Feilding.

Peter Barnett AREINZ 027 482 6835 | peter@nzr.nz NZR Limited | Licensed REAA 2008

FARMERS WEEKLY – September 24, 2018

KIWITEA SOILS, HUGE RANGE OF SHEDS 328 Jeffersons Line, Marton, Rangitikei Situated 9km north of Marton this 65 acres represents some of the regions most productive soil types. Land-use in the immediate area is a mix of livestock finishing, dairy farming and cash cropping. Centrally raced, this former small dairy farm, features a massive array of farm buildings making this place perfect for the collector, contractor or calf rearer. The gem is the former 6 aside herringbone dairy, complete with original milking plant. The tidy home has been altered in the past and is approx. 170m² with two bedrooms and large living spaces. The bus to the popular Hunterville primary is only 3.5km away.

26.47 hectares Tender nzr.nz/RX1660430 Tender Closes 11am, Fri 19 Oct 2018, NZR, 20 Kimbolton Road, Feilding.

Peter Barnett AREINZ 027 482 6835 | peter@nzr.nz NZR Limited | Licensed REAA 2008

A STUNNING se LIFESTYLE o

l sc

n

r de

te

304 Tablelands Road, Opotiki • Spacious, tastefully appointed, renovated meticulously • Set on 3533m2 amongst mature tropical style gardens • There is nothing to do here but relax • Flowing interiors to private decked outdoor areas • Spectacular views to the west over the Opotiki plains • Auction 7 October 2018 unless sold prior.

View 30 September, 7 October 1-2pm

LK0094500©

• View: www.ohopebeachrealty.com – open2view.com ID 429727

Ray Johnson

Rema Hinds

027 626 1487 ray.johnson@obr.net.nz

0274 535 033 rema@obr.net.nz

www.ohopebeachrealty.com Paramount Realty Ohope Ltd MREINZ l Licensed Real Estate Agent (REAA 2008) l 19 Pohutukawa Ave, Ohope Beach Paramount Realty Ltd MREINZ | Licensed Real Estate Agent (REAA 2008)|19 Pohutukawa Ave, Ohope Beach

Real Estate

FARMERS WEEKLY – September 24, 2018

farmersweekly.co.nz/realestate 0800 85 25 80

45

New Zealand’s leading rural real estate company RURAL | LIFESTYLE | RESIDENTIAL

NEW LISTING

Central Hawke's Bay

'Tahuna' - Intensive Cropping and Finishing • 579.8ha (1432.9 acres) comprising six Certificates of Title with good access to all blocks • Located 11km north west of Waipawa and 47km south west of Hastings • Excellent contour offering several farming options with consents in place for 80 hectares of surface take irrigation • Improvements include four dwellings, three stand woolshed, two sets of cattle-yards, two sets of sheep-yards, haybarns plus a consented feedlot for up to 800 cattle • Currently utilised as a bull finishing operation plus contracts for grazing dairy cows • Large cropping programme of maize, barley, potatoes and fodder crops • A mixture of free draining and heavy soils complement the farming programmes • Properties of this location, size and contour, with trout fishing on the boundary seldom become available

DEADLINE PRIVATE TREATY Plus GST (if any) Closes 4.00pm, Thursday 8 November PGG Wrightson Real Estate, Hastings Doug Smith B 06 878 3156 | M 027 494 1839 dougsmith@pggwrightson.co.nz Paul Harper B 06 878 3156 | M 027 494 4854 paul.harper@pggwrightson.co.nz

pggwre.co.nz/HAS28763

pggwre.co.nz

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008

INVEST IN A SUCCESS STORY – CHICKENS Equity Group Opportunity

High Performance Farmlet in the Heart of Tasman With two homes, substantial sheds and 18 ha of immaculate, fertile grazing, this epitomises a model high-performing farm in the heart of Tasman, near Mapua. An easy commute to Nelson, with excellent schools nearby, it’s a lifestyle dream; bike trails, wineries, cafés and beaches – you really are in the centre of it all.

For flight enthusiasts, an added bonus is the 520m long hay paddock which doubles as a microlight landing strip. Built in 2011, the brick farmhouse enjoys all-day sun, views to the mountains,and surveys the farm; an equal mix of flat and rolling pasture. An additional 30ha block nearby is also available. RV $1,610,000.

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PRICE: $1,680,000 plus GST (if any) VIEW: nzsothebysrealty.com/NEL00335 KYLIE TAIKATO-JONES: M +64 21 152 8195 E kylie.taikato-jones@nzsir.com

Boundary line indicative only.

Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

This operation has a top management team in place and who have always achieved high standards in the industry. The farm is contracted to Tegel Foods Ltd, supplying close to 400,000 Meat Chicken to the market and is set up with all the latest technology which efficiently operates the sheds. Chicken farming has proven reliable over the last 40-50 years, with an expansion of 7% year-on-year. The last recession period 2008-2013 also proved chicken farming robust and reliable with incomes increasing.

Positive points for Investors, are: Strong tenant, 15 year grower’s Agreement, monthly payments, robust income structure with CPI adjustments yearly, positive reports for consuming chicken meat, (Google ‘The coming global domination of chicken’).

This operation will ideally suit a family or an equity group who want a solid investment, returning strong yearly net returns. The management team have indicated a desire to stay after the sale.

For Further Information on this Property and Investment: Contact: Kevin Newsome 0274 425 178 Licensed REAA 2008

www.realty365.co.nz

LK0094192©

TASMAN, UPPER MOUTERE, 331 Gardner Valley Road

Located at South Head Road, near Helensville, Auckland, on 17.9 hectares of flat land (two titles) is this large scale Broiler Meat Chicken farm. Comprising of 10 large sheds, 8 being built since 2000 and another two in 2013. A total of 21,704 square metres of shedding, with two four-bedroom homes and one two-bedroom home.

classifieds@globalhq.co.nz – 0800 85 25 80

Shepherd General

Kotare requires a shepherd/general on their 490ha lamb and beef finishing operation, which is located 15km north of Feilding. It is an intensive flat land block which is run in conjunction with breeding properties in the Turakina valley, north of Hunterville.

The successful applicant will be a part of an enthusiastic and progressive team. They must be competent in the following: • Machinery maintenance and operation • Land preparation for cropping • Stock movement – 2-3 dogs under good control • Fencing – conventional and electric • General stock work and husbandry

For further information please contact Andy Hurley 0274 429 143 Send CVs with references to: kotare1@xtra.co.nz

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There is a newly renovated one bedroom house available. Remuneration will be based on experience.

Employment

FARMERS WEEKLY – September 24, 2018

Deadline for booking ads – Wednesday midday Deadline for material – Wednesday midday Deadline for completed ads – Wednesday 5pm Phone: 06 323 0765 Email: classifieds@globalhq.co.nz FW Jobs: www.farmersweeklyjobs.co.nz EMPLOYMENT ADVERTISEMENTS Under the Human Rights Act, 1993, it is unlawful, apart from some exceptions, for employment advertisements to restrict applicants because of their sex, marital status, religious belief, colour, race, national origins, age, family status, or sexual orientation.

Advertisements that discriminate in any way will not be published.

Rare Dry stock 2IC Cambridge

Due to our present 2IC retiring shortly, applications are invited for a Second In Charge position on a 340 ha elite cattle breeding property in Te Miro, near Cambridge.

A rare 2IC position has become available on one of our elite Waikato dairy farms. This job offers a varied role within a highly skilled team and comes with a competitive pay package for the right applicant.

This stunning, centrally located property is part of the Bellevue Group and run in conjunction with Animal Breeding Services; our main focus being embryo transfer with some livestock trading also.

Bellevue Enterprises runs an elite genetic breeding programme with dairy farms that perform in the top 10% of North Island farms for EFS (economic farm surplus per hectare).

We have entered our fifth grade free season and operate a split calving system.

This is a permanent full-time position for an immediate start.

What we offer: - The opportunity to interact and learn from some of the best in the business. There is plenty of opportunity to grow for the right person – both professionally and financially - Extra learning and upskilling is encouraged, supported and funded - Warm, private three-bedroom home with double garage, heat pump + DVS - Moderate working hours - Structured, reliable time off - Awesome central location - Competitive salary - Safe working environment and training if/ when necessary

All enquiries will be kept confidential.

The right to work in New Zealand is a must, current drivers licence essential and a preemployment drug test will apply.

To apply, please send current CV with cover letter to bellevueoffice@abreeds.co.nz

EMPLOYMENT REACH EVERY FARMER IN NZ FROM MONDAY Please print clearly Name: Address: Email: Heading: Advert to read:

Return this form either by fax to 06 323 7101 attention Debbie Brown Post to Farmers Weekly Classifieds, PO Box 529, Feilding 4740 - by 12pm Wednesday or Freephone 0800 85 25 80

Phone:

You will have the opportunity to Interact and learn from some of the best in the business with a variety of exposure from high performance dairying to Elite Genetic Breeding, building skills for life.

There is plenty of opportunity to grow with the business for the right person – both professionally and financially. Extra learning and upskilling is encouraged, supported and funded for you.

The farm is centrally located between Hamilton and Cambridge, offering many desirable nearby schooling options.

The farm is well facilitated with modern vehicles and equipment, covered feed pad, concrete Feed and Silage bunkers (no mucking around in the mud).

LK0094512©

What we require: - Honesty, reliability and a willingness to learn - Ability to confidently control 1-2 dogs - Some level of computer literacy (you don’t need to be an expert) - Accurate written record keeping

2IC Dairy Farm Assistant

A solid, well heated and ventilated threebedroom house is provided; this has a large and enclosed section for pets and children.

To apply you must have the right to work in New Zealand, hold a current drivers licence is essential and you will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug test.

To apply, please send current CV with cover letter to bellevueoffice@abreeds.co.nz

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46

Classifieds

FARMERS WEEKLY – September 24, 2018

POSITION WANTED SHEEP AND/OR BEEF

Due to Station sale we are actively seeking a new position.

11 years management experience Extensive pasture/supplement experience Proven prime stock production Confident stockman Full range of farm business skills which include farm hospitality experience, farm stay, glamping and private walks LK0094530©

For further information contact: Graham 06 307 8989 ggpage79@gmail.com

MOA MASTER Quality you can rely on – GUARANTEED

TOWABLE FLAIL MOWER $3910 + GST

ANIMAL HEALTH www.drench.co.nz farmer owned, very competitive prices. Phone 0800 4 DRENCH (437 362).

ANIMAL SUPPLEMENTS APPLE CIDER VINEGAR, GARLIC & HONEY. 200L - $450 or 1000L - $2000 excl. with FREE DELIVERY from Black Type Minerals Ltd www.blacktypeminerals. co.nz

ATTENTION FARMERS www.gibb-gro.co.nz GROWTH PROMOTANT $5.85 per hectare + GST delivered Brian Mace 0274 389 822 07 571 0336 brianmace@xtra.co.nz

TOWABLE TOPPING MOWER $3570 + GST

“WOOD SPLITTER” 50 TON

12 HP DIESEL MOTOR “ELECTRIC START”

LK0094471©

CRAIGCO SHEEP JETTERS. Sensor Jet. Deal to fly and Lice now. Guaranteed performance.

Unbeatable pricing.

Phone 06 835 6863. www.craigcojetters.com

$3990 + GST

To find out more visit

www.moamaster.co.nz Phone 027 367 6247 Email: info@moamaster.co.nz

DOGS FOR SALE 3-YEAR-OLD Heading bitch. Mainstay. By Lloyd Bishop’s ‘Range’. Runs hard. Very stylish. $5000.

Taupo. 07 378 8337.

BORDER COLLIE, pedigree strong eyed working pups. Bred from the finest, international working lines. 25 years of breeding. Phone Somerton Park Kennel 021 264 6250.

HUNTAWAYS, HEADERS from 50 cents a day!

Deliver Northland to Invercargill!

Trial Ok. www.youtube.com/user/ mikehughesworkingdog/ videos 07 315 5553.

ONE WELL BRED Huntaway bitch pup, 14-weeks old. Phone 027 331 2528 or 06 375 0560.

Wairarapa.

DOGS WANTED HEADING, HUNTAWAY, handy, backing dogs or bitches, 2-6 years. Top money paid. Phone Ginger Timms 03 202 5590 or 027 289 7615.

12 MONTHS TO 5½-yearold Heading dogs and Huntaways wanted. Phone 022 698 8195.

The feral deer population has increased to levels seen in the 1950’s resulting in reduced winter feed for farmer’s stock, and damage to juvenile trees for forest owners.

Contact Lance McNicholas 027 294 7504

Working alongside Crusader Meats

FERTILISER DOLOMITE, NZ’s finest Magnesium fertiliser.

Bio-Gro certified, bulk or bagged. 0800 436 566.

FORESTRY WANTED

NATIVE FOREST FOR MILLING also Macrocarpa and Red Gum, New Zealand wide.

We can arrange permits and plans. Also after milled timber to purchase.

NEW ZEALAND NATIVE TIMBER SUPPLIERS (WGTN) LIMITED 04 293 2097 Richard.

HORTICULTURE NZ KELP. FRESH, wild ocean harvested giant kelp.

The world’s richest source of natural iodine. Dried and milled for use in agriculture and horticulture. Growth promotant / stock health food. As seen on Country Calendar. Orders to: 03 322 6115 or info@nzkelp.co.nz

LIVESTOCK FOR SALE WILTSHIRES-ARVIDSON. Self shearing sheep. No1 for Facial Eczema. David 027 2771 556.

RED DEVON BULLS, R1.

Pure bred. Closed herds/ closed breeding groups.

BVD tested negative and vaccinated. Quiet and easy to handle. Phone John 027 644 1143.

JOHN DEERE 6410, 6600, 6610, 6800, 6900, dismantling Andquiparts.

Phone 027 524 3356.

PUMPS HIGH PRESSURE WATER PUMPS, suitable on high headlifts.

Low energy usage for single/3-phase motors, waterwheel and turbine drives. Low maintenance costs and easy to service. Enquiries phone 04 526 4415, email sales@hydra-cell.co.nz

SITUATIONS VACANT MILKER REQUIRED for casual weekend and odd weekday work. Familyrun dairy farm in Fernside.

200 cows 24 ASHB. Punctual and reliable with experience preferred but training for those keen to learn the industry. Email holmcroft@hotmail.com

WEED SPRAYING BOOM SPRAY. Broad acre, brush weed control, total vegetation. Hilux gun and hose units x 2 and mist blowers for gorse, broome, blackberry control.

Covering Lower North Island. Phone 06 375 8660 or 021 396 447, email kingbilly718@gmail.com

WORK WANTED FARM SITTER/ CARETAKER. Retired sheep and beef farmer (male). Available North Island. Or maybe need an extra hand or mental health support? Phone 027 214 8126.

CLASSIFIEDS

ADVERTISING Have something to sell?

Advertise in Farmers Weekly Phone Debbie 0800 85 25 80 Email classifieds@globalhq.co.nz

Livestock Preliminary Notice

Dairy In-Milk Auction (on-Farm) BOP

94 x Autumn In-Calf, In-Milk Cows

Thursday 11th October 11am 250 Fr/FrX Herd Closed herd for 23 years Breed for fertility the last 10 yrs with 99% RA Agents: Andrew Gordon: 027 487 2044 Paul Collins: 027 304 8994

BW 85, PW 113 Synchronised & mated using LIC A2A2 Friesian bulls Due to calve from 07/03/19 To be sold, vetted in-calf, for immediate delivery Asking price $1,775 + GST

Herds June Delivery 360 Frsns BW67 PW77 DTC 15/7 or to suit Well uddered herd on system 5, 450 ms/cow. BOP. $2200. Contact Webby: 027 801 8057

www.carrfieldslivestock.co.nz

Heavy Duty Yardmate Boot – Great heavy duty boot, perfect for farmers, heavy industrial workers, builders, fencers etc. With an upper constructed from thick full grain leather, an insole and mid-sole which are brass screwed and stitched.

10 HALL ROAD, RD 5, WHANGAREI PHONE 09 438 8907 EMAIL: lastrite@xtra.co.nz

LK0094390©

Ph: 027 959 4166 johnnyanderin2017@gmail.com maiexperiencejohnnygray

FOR ONLY $2.10 + gst per word you can book a word only ad in Farmers Weekly Classifieds section. Phone Debbie on 0800 85 25 80 to book in or email classifieds@ globalhq.co.nz

GOATS. 40 YEARS experience mustering feral cattle and feral goats anywhere in NZ. 50% owner (no costs).

50% musterer (all costs).

Phone Kerry Coulter 027 494 4194.

HOUSE FOR REMOVAL wanted.

North Island.

Phone 021 0274 5654.

Aaron Clapperton 027 496 7410 aaron@byl.co.nz

Office 07 823 4559 BYLLIVESTOCK.CO.NZ byllivestock

Gusset Casual Boot – The tough, flexible, cleated, fully repairable sole, ensures durability and the ability to handle the kids playing fields. A turned out, one piece full grain leather upper, with elastic side panel construction, ensures comfort and sleek appearance. Being fully leather lined with a leather in-sole adds to the comfort.

Stainless Steel Farm Tanks • Above Ground & On Ground options • Spilt tank options - incl. Diesel exhaust fluid • Fitted with both Vent Filter & Product Filter • Meter, hose & nozzle (standard) • Above Ground is fitted with ladder & standing platform • On Ground tanks have a top pump box fully enclosed & lockable

WWW.FUELCONZ.CO.NZ 0800 FUELCON/0800 383 5266

LK0093714©

www.aotearoastockman.com

YOUR FARM MAPPED showing paddock sizes.

Priced from $600 for 100ha. Phone 0800 433 855. farmmapping.co.nz

260 Xbreds BW99 PW125 RA100% Mated to suit. Farm sold, 10yrs LIC breeding.

5 weeks AB, 367ms/cow. Low SCC. Excellent Xbred herd Northland $2000 Contact Kaneo: 027 286 9279

Visit www.lastrite.co.nz for more quality products

Check out our website and let results speak for themselves

FARM MAPPING

GOATS WANTED. All weights. All breeds.

Prompt service. Payment on pick up. My on farm prices will not be beaten.

Phone David Hutchings 07 895 8845 or 0274 519 249. Feral goats mustered on a 50/50 share basis.

TRACTOR PARTS

(from private blocks)

McNicholas Aviation Limited is a helicopter deer recovery operator based in Opotiki. The aerial operation can selectively cull your feral deer population and pay a royalty. If required we can also seek and destroy any resident feral goat population.

FOOTWEAR LTD

Specialists in mustering Wild Goats, Cattle, Horses and Sheep across New Zealand

SECOND CHANCE for working dogs! Kennelled.

Soured.

Incompatible.

Older dogs wanted! www.youtube.com/user/ mikehughesworkingdog/ videos 07 315 5553.

PROPERTY WANTED

PURCHASING FERAL DEER

NZ MADE BOOTS

JOHNNY GRAY

GOATS WANTED

BREEDING ANGUS BULLS FOR HEIFER MATING YOU CAN TRUST Pinebank

Glanworth

60 Yearling Bulls

by Private Treaty from October

35 Yearling Bulls

by Auction 12 Noon Viewing from 10.30am

CONTACT WILLIE Ph 06 372 7041 Email: falloon.waigroup@xtra.co.nz

CONTACT SHAUN Ph 06 376 8869 Email: Glanworthfarm@gmail.com glanworthangus

anguswaigroup.co.nz

LK0094403©

• • • • •

GORSE AND THISTLE SPRAYING. Experience teams with mist blowers, hand pumps and gun and hose. No job too big.

Camp out teams. Phone Dave 06 375 8032.

DOGS WANTED

47

LK0094527©

With automatic release and spray system. www.vetmarker.co.nz 0800 DOCKER (362 537)

FLY OR LICE problem?

Electrodip - The magic eye sheepjetter since 1989 with unique self adjusting sides.

Incredible chemical and time savings with proven effectiveness.

Phone 07 573 8512 w w w. e l e c t r o d i p . c o m

CONTRACTORS

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LAMB DOCKING / TAILING CHUTE

LK0093733©

ANIMAL HANDLING

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VETMARKER

classifieds@globalhq.co.nz – 0800 85 25 80

2pm Tuesday 9th October 2018 136 Maskells Road Amberley

ON OFFER: 80 Hereford Yearling Bulls 10 FI Speckle Park, Hereford Cross Yearling Bulls ENQUIRIES: Rob Burrows 027 263 3582 Rob Stokes 027 757 1673 Helen Molloy 027 203 3854 RURAL LIVESTOCK: Anthony Cox 027 208 3071 Catalogue online at www.rurallivestock.co.nz

MEADOWSLEA ANGUS

FINAL DISPERSAL SALE In-Milk Friesian Cows and Yearling Heifers Monday 1st October 2018 at 11.30am

Sale to be held on the vendors property will comprise: • 12 Friesian in-milk MA cows BW 143/50 PW 161/67 RA 100% • 30 Friesian in-milk 2-year-old heifers (in top 10 All Breeds for NZ ) • 34 Friesian Yearling heifers (CRL) This outstanding Semex bred herd was sold in milk last • Many cows contracted to LIC for 2011 matings spring. The cows on offer were carryover cows and the • Due2-year-olds to calve from 16-7-12, 6.5 weeks are the complete line retained last year.

AB Jersey Kiwi cross They haveand all been calved down and milked through a • Estimated 420fed tocows after from non herringboneto shed be with milk calves. Reports pregnant, culls, older cows & 5% rejection the herd sale have been most complimentary with cows • Production producing in last excess season of 700kg ms.347kgs The in-milk ms/cow, females 1000kgs ms/ha,udders onand rolling steeper have outstanding the yearlingstoare considered contoured farm, palm kernel or maize the best ever bredno bymeal, our vendors. fed.This is a sale those farmers in need of high producing, • Young replacement stock available genuine cattle can attend with also confidence.

Milked on a very wet farm in a wet area these cattle are recommended to shift&well.potential to be one of Outstanding genetics the countries leading suppliers ofauctioneers Genetics A sales catalogue is available from the or isto available onlinefor at www.brianrobinsonlivestock.com the dairy industry years to come. Full details

available.

All enquiries to the auctioneers:

Brian Robinson Livestock Ltd Hamilton Brian Robinson 0272 410 051 Kevin Hart 0272 915 575 Brian Robinson BRLL Selwyn Donald 0274 378 375 or PH: 0272 07188 8583132 Neil410051 McDonaldor 0272 904

Enquiries to the sole marketing agents:

LK0085936©

Gary Falkner Jersey Marketing Service PH: 027 482 8771 or 07 846 4491

PROTECT YOUR FUTURE FLOCKS

ECZEMA TOLERANT

Spring Bull Sale

Vendors: M/s IJ & MA Lockwood

HIGH102 INDEXING JERSEY JERSEY Cowan Road, Hunua, RD 2,&Papkura 2583 CROSS HERD

LK0094226©

BEECHWOOD, RICHON & WOODBURN HEREFORDS

FARMERS WEEKLY – September 24, 2018

WAITEIKA HILL COUNTRY ROMNEYS RAMGUARD TESTING SINCE 1985

FRIDAY 5th OCTOBER 2018 1pm, on-farm Fairlie

***** RATING

Meadowslea F540 - ranked 3rd for Short Gestation (BLNZ Dairy Beef Progeny Test July 2018)

Top 10% breed – Calving Ease, Short Gest, Low Birth Wt, Days to Calve, Scrotal, Milk, Rib and Rump Fat

Offering:

50 2yr Angus Bulls Selected for mating Cows and Heifers

60 1yr Angus Bulls

Top picks included from leading bloodlines

* Robust functional sheep that survive * Dag and Condition Scoring * No ewes worm drenched, dipped or vaccinated WormFEC™ * Monitoring Parasites

Keith Abbott Raglan 027 463 9859 www.waiteikaromneys.co.nz Genetically linked to Waimai & Kikitangeo Romney

Featuring Low birth weights with calving ease, suitable for both Beef and Dairy.

Strong NZ Bloodlines with powerful maternal & fertility traits and exceptional rib & rump fats.

All bulls tested clear for EBL and BVD and vaccinated

Vendor: D S Giddings 03 685 8027 www.meadowslea.co.nz Auctioneers: PGW John McCone 027 229 9375 6% purchasing commission to all other companies

1st Speckle Park Yearling Bull

SALE

PURE BEEF

3rd October 2018, 11.30am 55 Settlement Road, Cambridge Auctioneer

Register interest

Kelly Higgins | 0276002374 Farm Source

Derek Hayward | 0272 266686 derek.premier@farmside.co.nz

PURE BRILLIANCE

HANGAWERA STATION

BUL L SA L E 398 Manuel Road, Tauhei

12.00pm Monday, October 1st, 2018 80x R2 HEREFORD SERVICE BULLS VIRGIN BULLS

LK00/4394©

ALL BULLS BVD TESTED AND VACCINATED

Selling Agents: PGG Wrightson Sam Wright 027 443 0905 Station Manager: Todd Linkhorn 027 258 1671 PICK UP FRIDAY 2ND NOVEMBER 2018 Clean vehicles and boots please Disinfection station on-site

STAY OUT FRONT

OF THE MOB Have ewe heard the most successful place to advertise your livestock is in Farmers Weekly?

To advertise Phone Nigel 0800 85 25 80

LK0094372©

HEREFORD YEARLING BULL SALE

Livestock

LK0094196©

livestock@globalhq.co.nz – 0800 85 25 80

LK0094462©

48

New Zealand Red Poll

SALE TALK

FOR SALE

STOCK REQUIRED

“What would you like to do first, Kim?” asked Joe.

1YR HEIFERS 220-270kgs 230-270kgs 1YR ANG STEERS

They ambled over to the weight guesser. He guessed 120 pounds.

She got on the scale; it read 117 and she won a prize.

2YR XBRED HEIFERS

Ross Dyer 0274 333 381 A Financing Solution For Your Farm E info@rdlfinance.co.nz

PAKI-ITI ROMTEX

“I want to get weighed,” she responded.

By this time, Joe figured she was really weird and took her home early, dropping her off with a handshake.

BUT BREEDING IS MORE THAN NUMBERS

It is about longevity, structural soundness, constitution and then the numbers.

paki-iti.co.nz

Stewart Morton 06 328 5772 • Andrew Morton 06 328 2856 RD 54 Kimbolton, Manawatu • pakiroms@farmside.co.nz

LK0094510©

Visit to view our breeding programs

LK0094186©

The couple walked around the carnival and again he asked where to next.

• 154 clients purchased or leased Paki-iti rams last year • 100% of Romney and Romtex sale rams are 5k DNA tested for greater accuracy – a first for the NZ sheep industry • 150%+ lambing, unshepherded on steep hill country rising up to 637m asl • 11 years of growth rate and meat yield progeny trials • 98 years of breeding rams for the NZ sheep industry

RED DEVON

registered yearling bulls, docile, BVD negative, closed herd, transportable farm to farm via ute/cage.

Phone 06 375 8589

ALE S L L U B G IN L R A YE TH PM 28 SEPT 2018 AT 12

Back to the weight guesser they went.

Since they had been there before, he guessed her correct weight, and Joe won another dollar.

NUMBERS TELL A STORY

FOR SALE

111 Years Breedin

“I want to get weighed,” she said.

PAKI-ITI ROMNEY

49

111 YEARSNA MAUNGAgHHerIefords

Next the couple went on the ferris wheel.

When the ride was over, Joe again asked Kim what she would like to do.

www.dyerlivestock.co.nz

LK0094120©

PHONE NIGEL RAMSDEN 0800 85 25 80

“I want to get weighed,” she said.

1YR BULLS 200-270kgs 450-550kgs 2YR STEERS

Proven as a pure breed Proven as dairy beef sires Proven in NZ since 1898 Breeders New Zealand wide www.redpollcattle.co.nz See us on Facebook

LIVESTOCK ADVERTISING

Joe took his blind date to the carnival.

60 x 1YR FRIES HERE STEERS 260kgs

Medium size and docile Fertile – Polled – Free calving High yielding tender carcass

livestock@globalhq.co.nz – 0800 85 25 80

LK0094498©

Livestock

FARMERS WEEKLY – September 24, 2018

71 LOTS OF OFFER n 39 Purebred registered Herefords yearling bulls n 16 Purebred Speckle Park yearling bulls n 12 Speckle Park / Hereford yearling bulls n 4 x 4 Elite Speckle Park Embryo packages

Her roommate, Laura, asked her about the blind date, “How’d it go?”

MAUNGAHINA HEREFORDS

45 Maungahina Road, RD 6, Masterton 5886 Mark McKenzie P 06 378 6896 M 027 415 8696

Kim responded, “Oh, Waura, it was wousy.

AUCTIONS 1ST ANNUAL SPECKLE PARK YEARLING BULL AUCTION A/C PREMIER CATTLE COMPANY

ROMNEYS

The mainstay and back bone of our breeding operation. Over 40 years’ of high selection pressure under commercial conditions has put these rams on the map. Sheep that ‘hold it together’ during tough times and deliver predictable and repeatable performance.

DATE: Wednesday 3 October 2018 LOCATION: 55 Settlement road, Cambridge TIME: 11:30am - undercover

DATE: Friday 5 October 2018 ADDRESS: 437 Patiki Road, Pihama, Taranaki START TIME: 11.30am - undercover

COMPRISING OF:

COMPRISING OF:

•

14 x purebred Speckle Park yearling bulls

•

150 Friesian and FriesianX in-milk cows – top condition

•

4 x Speckle Park semen packages to be auction

•

BW 110, PW 140 – fully recorded

DETAILS:

DETAILS:

ROMTEX

Bred out of our replacement stud Romney ewe hoggets (genetic gain) by robust and structurally sound high index Texel rams. Robust and meaty rams run under the same conditions as the Romneys and subject to the same strict culling standards.

Top performing genetics, all with breed plan data

•

BVD tested and vaccinated, lepto vaccinated

•

M-Bovis tonsil tested clear

•

Bull sires ‘Codiak, Oh My Gosh, Premier 101y logic’.

PAYMENT TERMS: 12 days from auction date. Delivery within one week after auction.

SUFTEX

Tim Wallace P: 06 372 2654 E: wai_itiwal@hotmail.com

www.waiitiromneys.co.nz

CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION: Farm Source Livestock Agent: Kelly Higgins 027 600 2374 Or our vendors Derek and Catherine Hayward 027 226 6686 Website: premiercattleco.co.nz LK0094518©

A nationally proven and predictable terminal ram.

We understand and appreciate the need for culling/ selection pressure so have a strong focus on providing structurally sound rams with a focus on longevity.

Zandy Wallace P: 06 372 2551 M: 0226 580 680 E: zandyandcaroline@waiitiromneys.co.nz

•

•

Predominately young cows and herd tested prior 20/09

•

Calved from 25 July and in good mating condition

•

TB CM, Lepto vacc, BVD bulk milk tested, milked in Rotary shed twice a day

•

All dairy cows are aged 2-6 years

•

M Bovis and BVD bull milk tested clear - not detected

•

Herd test Information available from the agent

PAYMENT TERMS: 20 November 2018.

Deferred payment options available by prior arrangement.

FARM SOURCE LIVESTOCK AGENT: Brent Espin 027 551 3660

0800 548 339 | nzfarmsource.co.nz/livestock

EARN FARM SOURCE REWARD DOLLARS ON ALL FARM SOURCE LIVESTOCK PURCHASES & SALES* T&Cs apply. See nzfarmsource.co.nz/rewards

*

LK0093835©

Are you one tup ahead?

HIGH INDEXED FRIESIAN & FRIESIAN X IN-MILK SALE A/C TROY STEVENSON

Sought after for breeding bulls for the dairy market

Phone: 027 505 1010

FE Coopworth FE Romney x Coop Texel x Coopworth Suffolk Suftex Texel x Poll Dorset

Bred on Taihape hill country

SIL Carcass Scanned FE Testing Edward Sherriff 06 327 6591 021 704 778

105 IN-MILK FRN/FRNX COWS & HEIFERS

Enquiries to Bernard Bird 06 388 1527 or 027 454 695

COMPLETE HERD DISPERSAL

Thursday 27th September – 12 noon A/c CL & MH Moore/DNA Farms (D&A Hinton)

Outstanding Closed Coastal Herd

For the convenience of clients, the sale will be held at the Morrinsville Sale Dairy Complex

Main South Road, Opunake D/N 42305

Featuring: 40 x Top Frn/FrnX I/M Heifers (capital line), BW130, PW142, RA95% 20 x Frn/FrnX I/M cows, BW87, PW110, RA90% 45 x Top autumn-calved I/M cows, BW93, PW127, RA98% BWs up to 177, PWs up to 348

On A/c Stanley Bros

2nd October 11:00am

family for 80 years with 45 years of using AB.

This quality line up is a great opportunity to purchase young, in-milk dairy cattle milking exceptionally well, showing excellent dairy type and conformation.

production being 530kg/ms/cow. Currently

October 11th, 2018, 1pm

producing better than 2.2 ms/cow/day.

546 Selwyn Lake Road, Irwell, Leeston

BW 90 PW 98 Rel 92%

Enquiries to your local Livestock Agent or Andrew and Anna Laing 027 253 5625

SCC currently 80,000, Blanket Dry Cow for the last 20 years, C10 & EBL free.

Contact: LK0094523©

Our vendors have done everything possible to ensure you can buy in confidence.

(No outside trading or grazing cattle farmed)

Bred for capacity and type, the best

Payment 20th October 2018

These young high-producing cows (DNA Farms) at 2.16ms/cow/day will be ideal to take good advantage of the current spring growth.

Both lines of cattle are TB C10, EBL free, BVD tested no PI’s M Bovis not detected and are Lepto inoculated annually.

Approx 50 Angus Yearling bulls for Auction

220 high capacity in-milk cows.

This closed herd has been in the Stanley

Bryan Goodin 027 531 8511 or Tim Hurley 027 445 1167

Catalogues are available on the website www.mylivestock.co.nz

Vendor Noel Stanley 027 222 5643

All enquiries welcomed to agent in charge: Stuart Wells – 027 2828 204

Contact Tania 06 765 8731

Catalogues available.

LIVESTOCK ADVERTISING Are you looking in the right direction? farmersweekly.co.nz

Your source for PGG Wrightson livestock and farming listings Key: Dairy

Beef

Sheep

Other

WAIKATO HERDS 1ST JUNE DELIVERY 700 Xbred Frsn/ Jsy X Cows BW 107, PW 122, RA 100% Young herd, 490 cows 4 years and younger.

21 years one owner. Closed herd, young stock grazed on property. $2,050.00 Enquiries to Dean Evans - 0272 431 092 300 Frsn/ Frsn X Cows BW 96, PW 125, RA 99% 400 M/S per cow. Nominated semen.

Closed herd $2,200.00 Enquiries to Regan Craig - 0275 028 585 640 Frsn/ Frsn X Cows BW 92, PW 109, RA 99% Young herd, 430 cows 4 years and younger. 450 M/S per cow. 1320 per hectare. $2,200.00 Enquiries to Dean Evans - 0272 431 092 170 Xbred Incalf Heifers BW 141, PW 141, RA 100% Calving 20th July. Capital stock line. Closed herd. Heifers never been off dairy unit. 1st May delivery. $1,650.00 Enquiries to Dean Evans - 0272 431 092

200 FRIESAN X HERD SALE Comprising: 200 Friesian X Cows BW 92, PW 105 Total herd for sale along with capital lines of heifers (R2 & R1).

Good production of 410 M/S per cow on grass based system.

Vendor is happy to mate herd and R2 heifers to purchasers requirements.

Lovely quiet cows being sold due to vendor retirement.

Agonline Ref No: 01-001455 Enquiries to Steve Wattam - 0274 934 484

MOTERE ANGUS Annual Yearling Angus Bull Sale.

Thursday 27th September 1.00pm 766 Longrange Road Waipawa 32 Top Yearling Angus Bulls Ideal for Heifers and MA Cows Bulls fully recorded View catalogue on line Enquiries: Issac Pharazyn – 06 8573828 David Strong – 06 8573705 Brenton Giddens – 06 8577163

YEARLING BULL SALES

For advice on your next yearling bull purchase visit: pggwrightson.co.nz/yearlingsales

Freephone 0800 10 22 76 | www.pggwrightson.co.nz

Helping grow the country

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30 Purebred 2-year heifers, empty 20 Purebred Yearling heifers

SUDELEY GENETICS

QUALITY SUFTEX RAMS

PINE PARK RAMS

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Belted Galloways

FARMERS WEEKLY – September 24, 2018

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LIVESTOCK FOR SALE

Livestock

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livestock@globalhq.co.nz – 0800 85 25 80

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50

Livestock

FARMERS WEEKLY – September 24, 2018

livestock@globalhq.co.nz – 0800 85 25 80

51

YEARLING VIRGIN HEREFORD BULL SALE

BEXLEY HEREFORD 9TH ANNUAL YEARLING BULL SALE

A/C WAIAU HEREFORD STUD Lillburn Valley, Tuatapere Friday 19th October 1:00pm

All home Bred Bulls 28th September 2018 - 12 Noon A/C Colin & Carol King Awakino Gorge SHW 3

54th Annual Hereford Bull Sale

Carrfields are pleased to offer for Auction on behalf of King Family 75 YRLG Hereford Bulls BVD – LEPTO Tested

48 Hereford Bulls 476kg av, 426 to 587kg

Wednesday 26th September, 12noon

Waiau is a closed herd in a remote location.

14 Angus Yearling Bulls

ON FARM - LUNCHEON PROVIDED • 660 Ngaroma Rd, 26km off SH3, Sth East of Te Awamutu.

Viewing from 10am

Sound bulls with exceptional temperament - Full EBV details in catalogue.

Bulls for Beef & Dairy - Selection of Short Gestation & Low Birth weights available.

Free delivery 80kms.

Contact

Celebrating 75 years of breeding quality Herefords

KELVIN & CYNTHIA PORT • P: 07 872 2628 • M: 022 648 2417 • E: kcport@gmail.com ROBERT & MARIAN PORT • P: 07 872 2715

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BVD Tested & Vaccinated, TB Tested, C10

25 TOP YEARLING BULLS & 70 2-YEAR OLD BULLS

Bull weights available prior to auction.

Prior inspection welcome.

Grant Ross 021 174 8403 Carrfields

Contact

Brent Bougen 027 210 4698 NZ Farmers

Darryl King 027 601 5384

Steve Sutton 027 442 3207 NZ Farmers

Jamie King 027 751 4157

Colin & Carol King 06 752 9863

Kelvin Lott 027 226 6153

CHEVIOT SPRING CATTLE SALES - CHEVIOT SALE YARDS Friday 5th October Commencing 10.30am Approx 850 Straight Beef Bred Ylg Steers

ANGUS STUD – TE AKAU NZ

Wednesday 10th October Commencing 10.30am Approx 500 Straight Beef Bred Ylg Heifers 350 Straight Beef Bred 2yr Steers 70 Beef 2yr Heifers Enquiries to: Nic Denton (PGW) – 027 4344 094 Jon Waghorn (HRL) – 027 4620 121

OPAWA DOWNS ON FARM CATTLE SALE 1653 Mt Nessing Road, Albury South Canterbury Tuesday 2nd October 2018 Commencing 11am 45 18 Mth Hereford/Simmental/Friesian x Steers 45 18 Mth Hereford/Simmental/Friesian x Heifers 100 R1 Simmental/Hereford x Steers & Heifers 50 1 Angus/Charolais x Steers & Heifers 30 R1 Angus/Simmental x Steers & Heifers 30 R1 Angus/Hereford Steers & Heifers 40 R1 Hereford Steers & Heifers 130 R1 Hereford/Friesian x Heifers 50 R1 Hereford/Friesian x Steers C10 Status Sign posted from Albury Enquiries to: David & Jayne Timperley (Vendors) 03 685 5785 or 0274 375 881 Sam Bell (PGGW) – 0272 040 499

MT NESSING FARM A/c J A D & K A Simpson 1049 Mt Nessing Road, Albury Tuesday 2nd October 2018 Commencing 12pm We Will Offer: 150 Angus & Angus Hereford & Exotic Yearling Steers 350 Angus & Angus Hereford Yearling Heifers 100 Exotic Yearling Heifers Light lunch available, cash only Enquiries: Tom Gatrell (RLL) – 0274 730 233 Andrew Scarlett (HRL) – 0274 620 126 www.rurallivestock.co.nz | NZ Owned & Operated www.hazlett.nz

YEARLING BULL SALE 50 BULLS 27 SEPT 2018 @1PM TH

Waipapa Station, 163 Clemett Road, Te Akau W: www.twinoaksangus.co.nz E: twinoaksangus@gmail.com

Contact Roger and Susan Hayward – 07 8282 131

PERFORMANCE •MATERNAL •PRODUCTION

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MARKET SNAPSHOT

52

Market Snapshot brought to you by the AgriHQ analysts.

Suz Bremner

Rachel Agnew

Mel Croad

Cattle

Reece Brick

Sheep

BEEF

Deer

SHEEP MEAT

VENISON

Last week

Prior week

Last year

NI Steer (300kg)

5.90

5.95

5.70

NI lamb (17kg)

8.45

8.55

7.10

NI Stag (60kg)

11.30

11.30

9.70

NI Bull (300kg)

5.50

5.50

5.40

NI mutton (20kg)

5.20

5.20

4.20

SI Stag (60kg)

11.35

11.35

9.70

NI Cow (200kg)

4.45

4.50

4.30

SI lamb (17kg)

8.25

8.30

7.00

SI Steer (300kg)

5.90

5.90

5.35

SI mutton (20kg)

5.20

5.20

4.25

SI Bull (300kg)

5.20

5.30

5.10

Export markets (NZ$/kg)

SI Cow (200kg)

4.30

4.40

4.25

UK CKT lamb leg

9.17

9.16

9.08

US imported 95CL bull

6.46

6.68

6.64

US domestic 90CL cow

6.75

6.94

6.77

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

Last week Prior week

Last year

Export markets (NZ$/kg)

6.0

6.0

11 10

$/kg CW

South Island lamb slaughter price

9.0 $/kg CW

8 6

7.0

Oct

Dec

Feb

Apr

5-yr ave

6.0

Jun

Aug

2016-17

2017-18

5.0 4.0

Oct

Dec Feb 5-yr ave

5.0

Apr 2016-17

Jun

Fertiliser

Aug 2017-18

WOOL

4.5

FERTILISER

(NZ$/kg) Oct

Dec

Feb

Apr

5-yr ave

Jun

2016-17

Aug 2017-18

Last week

Prior week

Last year

Coarse xbred ind.

3.37

3.42

3.07

37 micron ewe

3.45

3.55

30 micron lamb

Dairy

-

Prior week

Last year

Urea

523

523

477

-

Super

304

304

303

-

DAP

753

753

702

440

5.5

Oct-17

Dec-17

Feb-18 Sept. 18

Apr-18

Jun-18 Sept. 19

WMP

2715

3.40

2.75

7.20

6.11

Spark New Zealand Limited

3.98

4.10

3.28

Ryman Healthcare Limited

13.25

14.09

10.27

360

Fletcher Building Limited

6.23

7.96

5.74

340

Mercury NZ Limited (NS)

3.35

3.45

3.08

Oct-17

Dec-17

Feb-18

Apr-18

Jun-18

Aug-18

Contact Energy Limited

5.90

5.96

5.15

Air New Zealand Limited (NS)

3.17

3.43

2.86

440

5pm, close of market, Thursday

Company

Close

YTD High

YTD Low

The a2 Milk Company Limited

12.380

14.620

7.660

Comvita Limited

6.650

9.210

5.590

Delegat Group Limited

10.450

11.000

7.510

400

Foley Family Wines Limited

1.450

1.610

1.400

Fonterra Shareholders' Fund (NS)

4.960

6.660

4.800

Livestock Improvement Corporation Ltd (NS) New Zealand King Salmon Investments Limited PGG Wrightson Limited

0.730

3.000

0.700

2.700

2.990

1.840

0.620

0.720

0.560

Sanford Limited (NS)

7.850

8.500

7.350

Scales Corporation Limited

4.840

5.000

4.350

SeaDragon Limited

0.003

0.006

0.002

Seeka Limited

6.100

7.010

5.800

Synlait Milk Limited (NS)

11.890

13.530

6.260

T&G Global Limited

3.070

3.300

3.000

2035

2075

AMF

5330

5330

5700

Butter

4270

4290

4650

Milk Price

6.69

6.70

6.70

380 360 340 320

Aug-17

* price as at close of business on Thursday

WMP FUTURES - VS FOUR WEEKS AGO

Oct-17

Dec-17

WAIKATO PALM KERNEL

3000

350

$/tonne

2800 2600

Dec Jan 4 w eeks ago

11.92

420

2030

Oct Nov Latest price

16.44

2985

SMP

Sep

15.26 3.40

Aug-17

vs 4 weeks ago

2740

7.66

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corporation Ltd

7.20

CANTERBURY FEED BARLEY Prior week

YTD Low

Meridian Energy Limited (NS)

$/tonne

Last price*

14.62

Listed Agri Shares

DAIRY FUTURES (US$/T) Nearby contract

YTD High

12.38

Auckland International Airport Limited

320

Aug-18

Close

The a2 Milk Company Limited

400 380

6.0

Company

420 $/tonne

$/kg MS

6.5

NZ average (NZ$/t)

Top 10 by Market Cap

CANTERBURY FEED WHEAT

7.0

2400

-

Last week

Grain

Data provided by

MILK PRICE FUTURES

US$/t

9 7

8.0

5.5

4.0

South Island stag slaughter price

12

5.0

South Island steer slaughter price

8 6

4.0

6.0

9 7

5.0

4.0

10

7.0

4.5

Last year

11

8.0

5.5

Last week Prior week

North Island stag slaughter price

12

$/kg CW

$/kg CW

9.0 $/kg CW

North Island steer slaughter price

North Island lamb slaughter price

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

$/kg CW

Slaughter price (NZ$/kg)

Ingrid Usherwood

Feb

300

Feb-18

Apr-18

Jun-18

Aug-18

Tegel Group Holdings Limited

1.170

1.240

0.810

S&P/NZX Primary Sector Equity

17406

17682

14417

S&P/NZX 50 Index

9361

9363

8059

S&P/NZX 10 Index

9081

9212

7640

250 200

S&P/FW PRIMARY SECTOR EQUITY

17406

S&P/NZX 50 INDEX

9361

S&P/NZX 10 INDEX

9081

53

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018 NI SLAUGHTER BULL

SI SLAUGHTER LAMB

SI SLAUGHTER STAG

($/KG)

($/KG)

BONER FRIESIAN COW, 560-715KG, AT TEMUKA

($/KG)

($/KG)

5.50

8.25

11.35

1.78

DON’T STOP HERE...

If you love the information you get from these pages, you will love AgriHQ’s livestock reports.

LivestockEye TWO UP: Father and son Colin and Angus Schaw from Carrfields sold 189 capital stock Romney ewe lambs for $195.50 per head at Stortford Lodge.

We create transparency for the industry with these independent, objective reports providing full sale results and informed commentary covering 10 saleyards across NZ that are emailed directly after the sale.

Old season stock is sold in truckloads

NORTHLAND NORTHLAND The market in places showed improvement at KAIKOHE last

Dollar Watch

Wednesday, with autumn-born bulls in particular a highlight, PGG Wrightson agent Vaughan Vujcich reported.

Throughput was moderate at 500head and two-year steers made steady returns of $2.85-$2.95/kg with all beefFriesian, beef-cross and exotic-cross somewhere in that range. Beef-cross heifers were mixed in quality and most traded at $2.65-$2.75/kg.

The yearling market was variable but had a bit more life to it. Medium dairy-beef steers sold for $3.20-$3.40/kg, while beef bulls made $3.10-$3.15/kg.

Friesian bulls around the 240-260kg mark earned $3.10/kg, with other lines

This

Prior

Last

NZD vs THE kiwi dollar jumped nearly week week year 2c against the United States USD 0.6654 0.6636 0.7209 dollar after a strong quarterly EUR 0.5693 0.5745 0.6039 GDP reading.

AUD 0.9163 0.9153 0.9086 Short speculative positions GBP 0.5103 0.5182 0.5556 in the kiwi were at a five-year high going into Thursday and Correct as of 9am last Friday many of them will be getting unwound, ASB Bank institutional currency dealer Tim Kelleher said.

Figures won’t be known for a few days yet but the activity, along with much reduced expectations of an OCR cut, has the potential to push the NZ dollar to the US$0.69 to 0.70 level over the next few weeks. It has already kicked-up off a 0.65 week-to-week low to close to 0.67.

Kelleher believes the 0.70 figure is a top and once US economic and interest rate factors take sway again the kiwi’s easing trend will resume. US Fed interest rate rises are priced in for this week and again in December, whereas the OCR will be staying put.

There’s also scope for news on issues like Mycoplasma bovis and international risk sentiment to ping the kiwi, Kelleher said.

ASB is sticking with its call of a return to US$0.65 by year-end and 0.66 for March.

The GDP figure of 1% is very close to ASB’s estimate and well above the RBNZ’s. A cut to the OCR is now a forlorn hope and he believes the RBNZ talk of it is more to jawbone the currency lower.

Alan Williams

trading at $2.85-$2.95/kg. The heifer market regained some ground as better beef-Friesian fetched $2.98-$3.00/kg, though lesser lines made $2.65-$2.80/kg.

Autumn-born Friesian bulls were a stand-out and at 135-180kg sold for $665-$680, while Hereford-cross and Shorthorn-cross heifers mainly made $380-$420.

The cow market was fairly status quo as better types earned $2.00-$2.10/kg, medium $1.90-$1.98/kg and lighter, $1.60-$1.70/kg.

A big focus of the sale at WELLSFORD

Livestock Insight

Every week, we explain the context of the current market situation, drivers which are impacting the livestock markets and what to expect in the coming week.

Continued page 54

Sharemarket briefing MARKET movement was mostly positive last week despite escalation in the titfor-tat trade war with a new round of tariffs put on United States and Chinese goods. However, sentiment got a boost as investors deemed the trade war between the two largest economies might not be as bad as previously feared.

On Wednesday, the NZX 50 closed 17.6 points shy of its all-time high, reached on August 29. The local sharemarket has seen a number of companies trading at all-time highs, namely Meridian, Mainfreight, Chorus and Oceania Healthcare.

Meanwhile, the New Zealand economy expanded at its fastest pace in the past two years in the second quarter, led by farm production and household spending.

Gross Domestic Product gained 1% over the June quarter, marking a 2.7% gain for the year, beating forecasts and sending the NZ dollar higher.

Despite no recent news, Comvita’s share price has gained momentum and is now trading back at levels last seen in May, with some investors expecting a better year ahead following two seasons of poor harvests.

The ASX 200 is on course for its worst month since May. Market commentary provided by Craigs Investment Partners

Livestock Outlook

For those who want to see and understand forecasting, this monthly report projects farmer operating prices six months ahead and supports these prices with analysis of supply/demand, procurement factors, key export markets and exchange rate effects.

INDEPENDENT • OBJECTIVE TRUSTED • WORTHY Discover how we can help you keep up to date with market conditions.

agrihq.co.nz 0800 85 25 80

2476AGHQ

F

OR prime lambs the lateness of the season prompted a rush to offload and volumes nationwide increased. Prices are easing but not by the degree expected, with $170-$210 still very common.

Store cattle also poured into yards around the country as buyers look to hit a grass market, but for anything other than good quality traditional cattle the buyers are not quite ready.

Markets

54 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018 last Monday was on heifers, with 65% of the yarding found in these pens.

Two-year steer quality was mixed with lines from 320kg up to 585kg and a wide range of prices.

Hereford-cross, 567kg, made a solid $3.12/kg, while a lighter line of Hereford-Friesian, 398kg, returned $3.04/kg. Six heavy Angus-cross, 560kg, made $2.94/ kg.

Heifer pricing was more consistent and all bar one line sold for $2.81-$2.88/kg, putting most at $1100 and better.

Traditional yearling heifers featured and sold at much higher values than seen at the yearling fair. The highlight was 15 Hereford heifers, 279-307kg, which managed $910-$1025, $3.26-$3.34/kg, while Angus and Hereford & Angus-Hereford, 251-265kg, returned $3.14-$3.19/ kg. Hereford-Friesian, 226kg, managed $3.32/kg.

Quite a few autumn-born lines were offered and one-year Hereford-Friesian, 243kg, sold for $3.42/kg, while weaner heifers all traded at $495-$545. Friesian weaner bulls, 109kg, made $530.

AUCKLAND AUCKLAND The attraction of good prices drew yet more cattle to PUKEKOHE on Saturday 15th September. Good cattle sold to recent levels but large entries of off-bred types proved to be harder work.

Fewer prime cattle were offered though good heifers made $1340$1600, $2.99-$3.12/kg, and twoyear steers, $1200-$1760, $2.97$3.07/kg. Second cuts of heifers earned $970-$1110, $2.95-$3.03/ kg. Boner cows sold for $430$660, $1.23-$1.57/kg, and a line of bulls, $2020, $2.80/kg.

Lesser lines of light crossbred steers were variable as they traded at $650-$1170, $2.65-$3.22/kg.

Crossbred yearling heifers mainly sold for $690-$930.

Weaner quality was mixed and small crossbred steers and bulls made $415-$675, and medium heifers, $420-$460.

COUNTIES COUNTIES With spring grass growth still to shift into top gear, demand for older steers and heifers remains strong at TUAKAU, Chris Elliott of PGG Wrightson reported.

About 650 store cattle were yarded last Thursday, and the heavier steers, 450-570kg, traded at $2.97-$3.10/kg. The next cut at 380-440kg made $2.95-$3.05/ kg, with good yearling steers, 300-350kg, earning $2.90-$3.12/ kg. Lighter yearlings, 200-240kg, fetched $3.65-$4.11/kg, and good autumn-born Hereford-Friesian weaners, 160kg, $760.

The bull section included 270kg Friesian, which sold at $3.04/kg.

Another pen of Friesian-cross, 239kg, earned $750 and other crossbreds, 240kg, $690.

The heifer market was firm, with many of the older lots selling at rates comparable to the steers.

Heavy heifers, 400-486kg, made $2.90-$3.05/kg.

Good Hereford-Friesian, 349kg, earned $3.21/kg, and lighter yearlings, 200-300kg, $2.90-$3.31/ kg. Nice autumn-born HerefordFriesian weaners, 162kg, made $645.

About 350 cattle were presented

at last Wednesday’s prime sale and the market was strong. Most heavy prime steers traded at $3.05-$3.17/kg, with a line of very heavy Hereford-Friesian, 930kg, making $2.60/kg, $2435. Medium steers earned $2.90-$3.05/kg and light $2.60-$2.88/kg. Heifers also sold well. Heavy prime beef heifers earned $3.05-$3.12/kg, good-medium $2.90-$3.05/kg and lighter beef $2.75-$2.90/kg.

Good dairy heifers traded at $2.45-$2.70/kg with medium dairy-types making $2.05-$2.35/ kg and light $1.75-$2.05/kg. Prime Hereford cows, 720kg, returned $2.28/kg, $1648, and other heavy beef cows fetched $2.05-$2.45/kg.

Well-conditioned Friesian cows sold at $2.00-$2.30/kg, medium $1.75-$2.00/kg and lighter boners $1.40-$1.70/kg. A handful of Hereford bulls earned $2.90$2.95/kg.

Lamb prices continued to exceed $200 at last Monday’s sheep sale. The best of the heavy prime lambs made $170-$210, and medium $150-$170. Store lambs fetched $100 to $140 and heavy prime ewes $140-$172.

Medium ewes sold for $120-$140.

About 1100 ewes and lambs were yarded.

WAIKATO A mainly local buying bench met with a yarding of just under 1000 cattle at FRANKTON last Wednesday. The market was solid for older cattle though one-year and autumn-born weaners eased.

Two year Hereford-Friesian steers, 462-504kg earned $3.09$3.13/kg. Beef-cross heifers, 320411kg, fetched $3.00-$3.09/kg, and similar weighted HerefordFriesian, $3.04-$3.14/kg.

Yearling cattle eased with beefcross steers, 265-307kg, trading at $3.05-$3.18/kg, though a line of five, 266kg managed $940, $3.53/ kg.

Hereford-cross, 249-278kg, softened to $3.01-$3.13/kg, as did Hereford-Friesian, 239-282kg, $3.10-$3.40, though 184-189kg managed steady returns at $3.91$3.94/kg. Hereford-cross heifers, 250-254kg, made $2.76-$2.80/ kg, with the balance trading at $540-$665, Hereford-Friesian, 185-270kg, were also back though made a premium on their beef counterparts at $3.13-$3.39/kg.

Autumn-born weaners were harder going as the day progressed, Angus-Hereford steers, 120-188kg, managed $360-$590, and heifers of the same breeding, 108-150kg, $440$480. Hereford-Friesian heifers, 115-168kg, bucked the trend improving to $465-$585. Beefcross bulls, 100-139kg, eased to $395-$545, and Friesian, 90150kg, $400-$540.

The market was solid in the prime pens and all steers, 537633kg, traded at $3.01-$3.19/kg, while a line of five Angus-cross steers, 707kg, reached $2120, $3.00/kg. All prime heifers traded at $3.02-$3.08/kg.

Sixty prime in-calf Angus cows, 480-573kg, earned $1165-$1370, $2.37-$2.44/kg.

Demand for feeder calves was strong with good Friesian bulls solid at $150, medium $100, and small $60. Good Hereford-Friesian bulls eased to $320, as did medium at $220, with small types steady at $100.

Good Hereford-Friesian heifers softened to $140, though medium and small were steady at $85 and $40 respectively.

BAY OF PLENTY BAY OF PLENTY Bidding on store cattle at RANGIURU last Tuesday was more reserved than expected, though prime cattle continued to tread a steady path.

Four two-year CharolaisHereford steers, 482kg, made $3.03/kg, and Hereford-Friesian, 390-427kg, achieved $3.09/kg.

Heifers were limited with the biggest entry being crossbred, 343-351kg, at $2.28-$2.33/kg.

Yearling prices showed some upwards movement and Angus steers, 298kg, made $1170, $3.93/ kg and Hereford-Friesian, 220226kg, earned $3.91-$3.94/kg.

Other breeds were well off that pace though.

Hereford-Friesian made up 70% of the heifer section and prices were variable, in keeping with the offering. A line of 18 223kg made $810, while two smaller, lesser lines at 230kg earned $600-$670.

Autumn-born weaners of quality met keen interest and heifers made $560-$630 and Simmental-cross bulls, 189kg, $710.

The prime section was more consistent as steers sold for $3.01$3.14/kg and a line of six Angus heifers, 443kg, $3.05/kg.

Boner Friesian prices firmed and 530-565kg averaged $2.18/kg.

TARANAKI TARANAKI Too many cattle booked for the fair at TARANAKI meant a re-think and just two-year cattle were offered last Wednesday.

That still amounted to 860 head, including primes, which was too many for a small buying bench and prices eased across the board.

Finished steers in the prime pens, 555-590kg, fetched $3.14$3.17/kg. Good weights of 468-536kg for Hereford-Friesian steers meant that even though they softened to $3.21-$3.29/ kg they still made $1540-$1720.

Other store Hereford-Friesian, 421-435kg, earned a premium of 6-9c/kg at $3.30-$3.38/kg over lesser lines of 330-353kg. AngusFriesian were variable, with 489498kg trading at $3.01-$3.07/kg, and second cuts, $3.13-$3.26/kg, though lighter lines, 307-352kg, sold well at $3.34-$3.58/kg.

Heifers were well down on steer prices and sold on a much softer market to previous weeks.

Hereford-Friesian, 417-497kg, eased to $2.95/kg, and 357-384kg, $2.86/kg. Angus-Friesian, 355387kg, also eased to $2.72-$2.79/ kg, and 323-343kg, $2.63-$2.68/ kg. A big entry of Friesian heifers, 348-431kg, returned $2.31-$2.40/ kg.

POVERTY BAY POVERTY BAY It was just bits and pieces available at MATAWHERO. A solitary line of medium store ewes lambs made $136, but most of the numbers were in the prime section. Of the prime lambs, the top cuts were $196-$200, with $170-$181 covering the rest.

Prime ewes were spread across $130.50-$161, mainly $141-$147.

Two very small pens of light ewes with lambs-at-foot were $75.50$83 all counted.

HAWKE’S BAY HAWKE’S BAY Store cattle volume hit record levels of 1700 at STORTFORD LODGE last Wednesday, with increases also seen for prime lambs and ewes last Monday.

Prime lambs exceeded 2800 and the market was mainly steady.

Males made up a large portion of the sale and very heavy types continued to make $201-$227, with top ewe lambs selling to $190-$215. Most other males sold for $170-$196, though third cuts did soften to $144-$160. Most ewe lambs sold on a steady market at $166-$191.50.

Top ewes fetched $220, with the balance of very heavy types lifting to $184-$190.50 and heavy, $162.50-$171.50. Good to very good types were steady at $132$157, while light-medium lifted to $94-$119, and light $86-$92.

Only 22 prime cattle were penned and the largest line was ten Hereford-Friesian cows, 561kg, which traded at $2.25/kg.

The ewes with lambs-at-foot market was a repeat performance of the previous week last Wednesday, with entries from the same properties giving it a familiar feel. Prices eased $7-$8 with most trading at $104-$110.50 all counted.

Old season store lambs are now done and dusted and a small yarding of 1800 sold with an easing tone. A consignment of cryptorchid lambs eased to $149-$169, while most ewe lambs traded at $128-$141. Two entries of very heavy, woolly ewe lambs sold to $195.50. Chatham Island’s offered up mixed wether and ewe lines and better types made $142$165 and the balance, $119-$140.

The cattle pens were a hive of activity last Wednesday with cattle and buyers coming from all directions. Few cattle stayed local as outside buyers dominated the largely traditional yarding. Most cattle were sold empty having been either yarded overnight or trucked out very early.

The markets were very strong with just the two-year bulls softening on last week’s sale.

Traditional three-year steers, 476-537kg, made $3.48-$3.52/ kg, while two-year Angus mostly traded at $3.51-$3.62/kg for 400-500kg, though lighter lines, 343-347kg, pushed to $3.69/kg.

Hereford-Friesian, 437kg, made $3.19-$3.20/kg. Heifer prices were equally as impressive and two lines of Angus sold for breeding at $1480-$1495, while Angus & Angus-Hereford, 383-444kg, earned $3.03-$3.15/kg. Aside from two lines of Friesian bulls at $3.26-$3.27/kg, prices softened and most sold for $2.99-$3.03/kg for the heavier end, and $3.09$3.15/kg for 445-498kg.

Late born traditional cattle featured in the yearling pens and Angus steers, 146-223kg, earned $4.71-$4.83/kg, while their sisters of similar weight made $4.17$4.23/kg. Heavier Angus, and Angus & Angus-Hereford steers, 302-342kg, sold on a firm market at $3.94-$4.01/kg.

MANAWATU MANAWATU A big yarding of autumnborn Hereford-Friesian weaners made for spirited bidding at RONGOTEA last Wednesday, New Zealand Farmers Livestock agent Darryl Harwood reported, with

calf prices remaining strong.

Older cattle were in the minority and two-year Jersey steers, 357kg, made $1.96/kg, and bulls, 585kg, $2.68/kg. More quality in the heifer pens meant Hereford-Friesian, 400-472kg, bettered both at $2.93-$2.97/kg.

In-milk Friesian cows made $1280 and Jersey, $900, while incalf Friesian cows fetched $1090$1340, and heifers $1130. Friesian boner cows, 322–622kg, earned $1.39 - $1.85/kg and crossbred, 395kg, $2.03/kg.

Quality lines of beef-Friesian and exotic yearling steers met keen interest and a line of 375kg Hereford-Friesian earned $2.98/ kg, while exotic-cross, 225-237kg, soared to $3.21-$3.33/kg. Lighter Hereford-Friesian made similar values. Good heifers of same breeding and 235kg also sold to $3.23/kg, and Angus-cross, 252kg, $2.93/kg.

Lesser sorts traded at $2.63$2.64/kg. Bull prices were variable with good quality lines of Friesian and Hereford-Friesian selling up to $1090-$1140, though lesser lines were well off that pace.

In the weaner pens HerefordFriesian steers, 95-150kg, sold well at $460-$615, bulls, 80-145kg, $455-$510, and heifers, 104245kg, $485-$600. Other steers with more weight but less quality traded at $470-$530 and bulls, $360-$400.

Calves continued to make solid returns as Simmental-cross bulls sold to $245, Friesian, $155-$220, and Hereford-Friesian, $190-$245.

Smaller Hereford-Friesian made $130-$170, while heifers traded at $80-$240.

A big entry of 7000 prime old season lambs hit the FEILDING yards last Monday, also joined by a steady flow of dairy cows.

Prices for prime lambs continued to trend down and buyers were quick to fill orders on early pens with the market dropping as the sale progressed.

Most lambs ranged from $160$205, with a line of 150 mixed sex up to $238.

A much smaller yarding of ewes was dominated by one buyer and the lack of demand eased prices.

Good ewes sold for $131-$143, and most of the balance, $115$126.

A steady flow of dairy cows is under pressure from easing schedules. The market at auction lost 12-24c/kg with the biggest decline for the lighter end at 470530kg. Heavier types, 550-640kg, dropped by 12-14c/kg to $2.11$2.19/kg. A few lines were in-milk and vetted-in-calf but with the processors taking ownership there was no premium.

A small entry of boner heifers held value due to numbers, and 405-470kg averaged $2.38/kg.

Good interest for a small yarding of bulls meant four 792kg Friesian reached $2.92/kg, while two Hereford, 535kg, made market value at $2.86/kg.

An improvement in the weather played its part in the calf pens, with good returns for bulls though heifers were buyable. Simmentalcross bulls made $230-$320, and Hereford-Friesian, $140-$265.

Friesian sold for $100-$205, with most heifers trading at $80-$180.

Buyers came in good numbers and hung around through the FEILDING store cattle sale.

Markets

Numbers clocked in at a little over a thousand head, and more than the fair share of these had good condition, breeding, or both.

Traditional and Charolais-cross 2-year steers, 405-560kg, were consistently sold at $3.40-$3.47/ kg, whereas anything else was at similar weights was $3.03-$3.35/ kg. Angus heifers, 380-410kg, were $3.15-$3.18/kg. Quite a few large lines of 2-year Friesian bulls had mixed success, as 500-520kg were $3.28-$3.48/kg whereas 585kg made $3.07/kg.

Yearling traditional steers were subject to very heavy competition, pulling 260-305kg lines to $1100-$1320, $4.21-$4.38/ kg, though 195-225kg were back at $760-$915, $3.86-$4.03/kg.

Decent Hereford-Friesians, 255295kg, were often $3.52-$3.72/ kg. One-year heifers were a 50:50 split of traditional and dairycross lines. Hereford-Friesians, 250-270kg, were mainly $3.25$3.38/kg, whereas 195-215kg traditionals made $3.59-$3.89/kg.

Hereford bulls, 300-360kg, were snapped up for dairy breeding at $1520-$1980, $5.03-$5.48/kg, but run-of-the-mill 225-260kg Friesians were more like $3.58$3.70/kg.

A few 120-130kg HerefordFriesian weaners made $500$547. Some 145-160kg HerefordFriesian bulls were $660-$675.

Angus-Hereford and HerefordFriesian cows with calves-at-foot claimed $1340-$1470, $2.68$2.87/kg.

Old season lambs fall off the radar as less than a thousand head were put under the hammer, often in pens of less than 40 head.

The limited numbers seemed to keep bidders somewhat honest, though mixed quality made for varied results. The medium and lighter pens were often $126$134, though a single large pen did reach $143. Good weighted lines were $144-$173 and the two heaviest pens made $186-$188.

Ewes and their lambs-at-foot were out in similar numbers to the week earlier. More than half of the pens were sold into the $114.50-$117.50 all counted. Just a few small lines claimed the topend of the market at $119-$126 all counted, with $106-$109 all counted the bottom-end.

CANTERBURY CANTERBURY Both store cattle and prime lambs lifted in volume at CANTERBURY PARK last Tuesday, but were under heavy scrutiny.

The yarding of 1950 prime lambs was the biggest since early June. The market was softer but most were very heavy types that sold for $190-$211, with second cuts earning $160-$189.

Store lambs totalled just over 200 head and were of little significance, aside from a line of whiteface wethers which managed $163, and small lines of mixed sex at $80-$145.

Crossbred ewes with lambs-atfoot were mixed and the two lines reflected that. The lambs had good age though and both traded at $93-$120 all counted.

The ewe section was the same size as the store lambs and prices were steady as heavy types sold to $200-$251, and good and heavy types, $174-$198. The remainder traded at $120-$172.

Store beef-dairy and crossbred

FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018

55

eased $5-$10. The top lines made $130-$140 and medium, $110$135.

A good line of Romney ram hoggets again realised $191, with heavy prime lambs starting at $170. Second cuts made steady returns at $165-$170, while lighter lines firmed $5 to $155-$160.

A few more ewes were easily absorbed and heavy types firmed to $165-$186, with medium earning $140-$160 and light, $120-$140. Tail-end ewes sold for $50-$60.

WAITING: Stock at last week’s cattle sale at Stortford Lodge.

cattle proved to be hard to sell, though buyers had to work to secure the few traditional lines penned.

Small lines of yearling Hereford and Angus-Hereford steers, 373-381kg, outclassed all other cattle at $3.24-$3.32/kg. The only line to come close was their sisters, 364kg Hereford, $3.10/kg.

Hereford-Friesian steers, 287338kg, only managed $3.07-$3.09/ kg, and 173-248kg, $2.94-$3.03/ kg.

Heifers were marginally more consistent which reflected quality as Murray Grey-cross, 267278kg, fetched $3.02-$3.09/kg, and similar weighted HerefordFriesian, $3.02/kg. Other lines, 233-269kg, eased to $2.76-$2.79/ kg.

Two-year numbers were low and buyers were a more accommodating. Charolaiscross heifers, 354-416kg, sold for $3.05-$3.12/kg, while the best of the steers was six Angus, 339kg, $3.19/kg.

A steady tone ran through the prime section and Angus, Charolais and Hereford-cross steers reached $3.15-$3.25/ kg. Forward stores also sold in a similar range, though $2.90$3.00/kg was more common for plainer types.

A big entry of beef-cross heifers were consistent at $2.94-$3.04/kg for 470-660kg, though anything else with a bit of yield made $2.80-$2.90/kg.

Special entries featured in both sections of the COALGATE sale last Thursday.

Corriedale ewe lambs met keen interest, selling in two cuts at $140-$144, while Romney ewe lambs were suitable for breeding though sold at current market values of $141-$152. Other store lambs made $113-$149 for the majority with a few lines up to $160-$166.

Corriedale ewes were scanned with twins and had a good following, selling for $214. 19 very good two-tooth’s with 32 lambs made $154 all counted, though most other smaller lines sold for $88-$102.

Heavy prime lambs eased

slightly while an extra buyer on medium lambs firmed these types, which meant most lambs traded at $180-$218.

Prime ewe volume increased with a higher percentage of fine wool lines penned. This meant a larger portion traded in an $82$125 range, with a smaller portion at $132-$218.

Store cattle tallies were moderate but consisted of special entries. Traditional two-year steers were well contested and 412-443kg sold for $3.20-$3.26/ kg, with two lighter lines from one vendor at 327-355kg, $3.55-$3.58/ kg. Heifers are harder work and Hereford, 367-404kg, made just $2.70-$2.78/kg.

The yearling pens also had a good run of special entries, including Angus heifers from the same property as the lighter twoyear steers. At 321-338kg they sold exceptionally well at $1040-$1110, $3.24-$3.28/kg.

Another consignment of Angus-& Angus-Hereford were mixed in quality and condition.

Steers, 235-293kg, made $690$800, and 161-190kg, $525-$645. A light line of 128kg heifers sold for $600, out-pricing 142-200kg lines at $360-$500.

The prime section of the sale lacked spark, with prices across most classes easing. Steers, 515545kg, eased to $2.88/kg, though a few heavier beef lines did exceed $3.00/kg. Heifers followed suit and 490-635kg eased to $2.84$2.89/kg, with 430-460kg down to $2.70-$2.75/kg. Dairy cows showed the same decline and most sold over a tight range of $1.70-$1.75/kg, with the odd line to $1.90-$2.00/kg.

SOUTH CANTERBURY SOUTH CANTERBURY A downwards trend was notable in both the lamb and manufacturing beef market at TEMUKA last Monday.

Very heavy prime lambs were discounted with fewer lines above $200, but over the yarding the majority still sold for $170-$209.

Store lamb prices are in decline with limited demand for a small yarding. A feature was medium woolly halfbred wethers at

$141.50, but mixed sex eased or came back as medium to good traded at $87-$133. Better types sold to $143-$163 and Merino ranged from $95 up to $123.

A feature line of 28 two-shear Perendale ewes with 42 tailed Texel-cross lambs-at-foot met keen competition and sold for $120 all counted.

Ewe quality was mixed for a moderate yarding but the top lines managed $200-$274, and good types $170-$194. A large portion traded at $120-$159, with lesser sorts making $105-$115.

The flow of cattle is increasing though space is still limited and manufacturing cattle eased again. Friesian, 478-715kg, sold for $1.71-$1.79/kg, with just four lines making it to $1.80-$1.82/kg.

Second cuts made $1.65-$1.77/ kg, and third, $1.50-$1.51/kg.

Those 440kg dropped further to $1.30-$1.40/kg. The sale was more positive for Friesian heifers and better yielding types, 576-655kg, sold at beef levels of $2.83-$2.90/ kg, while boner heifers mainly traded at $2.31-$2.53/kg on a firm market.

Auction prices for prime cattle reflected schedule movements with a steady week ticked off.

High yielding Devon, Herefordcross and Murray Grey steers all achieved $2.91-$3.05/kg, with plainer lines trading at $2.80$2.86/kg. One Angus heifer, 710kg, cracked $2000 when she sold for $2.90/kg, with high yielding Simmental, 525-555kg, earning $2.88-$2.92/kg. The bulk of the section were Hereford-cross and sold on a steady market at $2.75-$2.86/kg.

Very heavy bulls, 915-923kg, all made $2.25/kg, while all other lines except Friesian traded at $2.43-$2.56/kg. Friesian, 517551kg, returned $2.29-$2.33/kg.

OTAGO OTAGO The sheep pens were quiet at BALCLUTHA last Wednesday, though numbers were bolstered by wet-dry ewes, PGG Wrightson agent Alex Horn reported.

The old season store lamb market is winding down and due to a small bench of buyers prices

SOUTHLAND SOUTHLAND Cattle are replacing sheep in volume at LORNEVILLE and there was more focus on these pens last Tuesday.

Old season lamb prices are easing in keeping with the season winding down. Good store lambs managed to hold value at $140$155, but medium and light lines lost $8-$10 to trade at $120-$130 and $105-$115 respectively.

A similar pattern occurred in the prime lamb pens where heavy lines remained at $170$190 but medium lines eased to $155-$165 and lighter, $140-$152.

Ewes however continued their consistent run and top lines fetched $165-$185, medium $140$160 and light, $120-$138. Lesser sorts earned $90-$110 and rams $60-$90.

The cattle pens were busy with a medium yarding of prime cattle and good sized offering of store and feeder calves. Prime beefcross steers, 500-510kg, earned $2.98-$3.00/kg, while heifers, 430-460kg, made $2.70-$2.76/ kg. Heavy cows, 500kg plus, held value at $2.00-$2.10/kg, though 450-500kg eased to $1.80-$1.90/ kg. Those 400-450kg also eased to $1.50/kg.

Good returns for quality two-year steers meant Herefordcross, 413kg, made $3.26/kg, and Friesian of similar weight were adequate at $2.80/kg. Yearling prices eased as Hereford-cross steers, 251kg, made $2.94/kg, and heifers, 225kg, $2.80/kg. Bulls of same breeding and 252kg were the bestselling at $3.01/kg.

Demand for 10-day old, quality beef-cross calves was high but the remainder of the section struggled. Good Hereford-Friesian bulls made $240 and medium $120. Angus-cross bulls sold to $120, while the top Friesian bulls made just $80. Good heifers met very limited interest and sold for $60.

Throughput continued to be very low at CHARLTON last Thursday due to seasonal trends, and market results were mixed, PGG Wrightson agent Greg Clearwater reported.

Limited selection in the store pens meant prices were down on last week as top lines sold to $120$140, medium $100-$120 and light, $80-$90.

In contrast a small prime lamb yarding held value as heavy types ranged from $190-$210, medium $170-$180, and lighter, $160-$165.

The news kept getting better as well with ewe quality improving on the previous week and selling on a firm market. Heavy ewes lifted to $170-$185, with similar movement for medium at $150$168, while light lines were steady at $100-$135. Rams sold for $80$90.

Markets

56 FARMERS WEEKLY – farmersweekly.co.nz – September 24, 2018 NI SLAUGHTER LAMB

NI SLAUGHTER STEER

SI SLAUGHTER COW

($/KG)

($/KG)

TWO-YEAR ANGUS STEERS, 455485KG, AT STORTFORD LODGE

($/KG)

($/KG)

8.45

5.90

4.30

3.60

lambs-at-foot, at Feilding

Buyers bide their time While we have long been factoring softer dairy prices into our outlook, prices slid further than we had been expecting in recent weeks.

Hugh Stringleman

T

hugh.stringleman@globalhq.co.nz

HE next two months will be crucial for the 2018-19 season milk price as buyers work out New Zealand’s dairy production, Rabobank dairy analyst Emma Higgins says.

Fonterra will offer more whole milk powder on the Global Dairy Trade platform where prices have fallen for the past four months and seven out of eight auctions.

As the spring peak looms NZ milk production to the end of August was 5% or eight million kilograms of milksolids ahead of the corresponding time last season.

“With plenty of milk, ample product and expectations reflecting the choice available, buyers are remaining on the sidelines,” Higgins said.

“Near-perfect winter and spring weather thus far (unusual, based on the last couple of seasons) has provided a solid platform for a robust production season ahead, providing a level of comfort for buyers that there will be options aplenty and capping prices.”

Higgins said the biggest volumes of WMP will be offered by Fonterra on GDT in October and November and the results form a big part of the season’s milk price outcome.

Last season the farmgate

Anne Boniface Westpac

STANDOFFISH: Buyers are staying on the sidelines with plenty of milk and products available giving them choice, Rabobank analyst Emma Higgins says.

milk price was composed of 64% WMP, 20% skim milk powder, 9% butter, 5% anhydrous milk fat and 2% butter milk powder – the five reference commodities.

Rabobank will review its farmgate milk price forecast of $6.80 and release a new number in early October.

The GDT index fell by 1.3% on August 18, adding to a cumulative fall of 14% since mid-May. WMP prices were down 1.8% or 16% since May.

SMP prices fell 1.1% in the recent auction but have improved throughout this year, by 16%, as the European Union sells down its stockpile.

Westpac analysts have already reduced their milk price forecast by 25c to $6.25 and said they continue to view Fonterra’s $6.75 forecast as too optimistic.

“While we have long been factoring softer dairy prices into our outlook, prices slid further than we had been

$3.24-$3.32/kg high $114.50-$119 all counted lights Ewes with multiple Yearling traditional

expecting in recent weeks,” senior economist Anne Boniface said.

“And with farmers pleased with pasture conditions in many parts of the country, at this stage prospects for NZ milk supply appear favourable.”

ASB senior rural economist Nathan Penny said world dairy prices are 15% below this time last year but the lower-value NZ dollar has offset all but 4% of that fall.

He picks a 2% increase for NZ milk this season.

Production growth greater than that will likely lead to weaker prices.

The pattern of the GDT index in 2018 has been like that of 2017, tracing a slow decline from autumn through spring.

When it became obvious last summer that NZ milk output faced weather challenges, the GDT rose about 12% from December to February.

It remains to be seen if a repeat will occur, Penny said.

steers, 375-380kg, at Canterbury Park

Challenges ahead for beef exports WITH spring now upon us many bull finishers will be happy the bull market has held up better than expected. It has been a long-held view that increasing United States beef production would at some point Mel Croad derail demand for imported beef AgriHQ Analyst from New Zealand. The fact is we are already facing softer demand from the US. US 95CL imported beef prices are nearing a two-year low at under US$2/lb. The drop in NZD against the USD is offsetting the fall in US imported beef prices compared to this time last year with a little support from slightly stronger procurement pressure. That has prevented farmgate bull prices from edging even lower. The big question is where to for bull prices heading into spring?

There are certainly challenges ahead in the US beef market, which is a key market for NZ bull beef. We might have felt we have weathered the storm well but, unfortunately, the lower NZD is masking some of the impact of declining demand for imported beef into the US. US domestic beef prices have traded at a premium to imported beef prices since April. That has been of little advantage to import prices. In other words the US has had sufficient volumes of fresh grinding beef offsetting some imported beef requirements. Regardless, NZ will export more than 200,000t of beef to the US this season but at prices lower than previous years.

In comparison Australia has chosen to direct its beef exports to key Asian markets.

While NZ’s exposure to the US market is at its lowest in September and October, exports start ramping up from November. Indications from the US are that its beef production is far from slowing down. While US beef exports continue to hum, the US itself is nearing its seasonal lull in domestic beef demand. That, combined with increasing pressures from greater pork production, means import prices are set to come under further pressure. Farmgate bull prices will feel it as soon as supplies here pick up. That is likely to continue into the New Year. mel.croad@globalhq.co.nz

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