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Equine traceability programme announced
The health and wellbeing of New Zealand’s horses are set to take a leap forward with the launch of the New Zealand Equine Health Association’s (NZEHA) new biosecurity initiative in August.
Following years of research and collaboration, the National Equine Identification and Traceability (NEIT) project has developed into a comprehensive system designed to strengthen biosecurity across the country.
The NEIT system will build a nationwide database of horse locations and ownership, enabling faster, more efficient responses during equine disease outbreaks.
“It’s been a long journey to reach this point,” said NZEHA executive adviser Dr Trish Pearce. “While some may view the new requirements as an added cost, the truth is that a robust system is essential for us to undertake any disease response efforts.
“Over 23 exotic diseases pose a threat to New Zealand horses, and some of these affect people or other livestock as well. The NEIT system is a simplified traceability tool designed to meet these challenges effectively. It only tracks ownership changes — not the movement of horses throughout their lives.”
The NEIT system aligns with the Government Industry Agreement (GIA), which requires industries to share the costs of managing post-border disease outbreaks. It will ensure a rapid, coordinated response in the event of a disease outbreak by identifying and locating equines quickly and accurately.
From August 2025, all foals born in New Zealand will be required to have a microchip.
This will be a straightforward procedure, which can be combined with other regular farm visits, such as ram palpation, to minimise costs. Once a foal is microchipped and the vet records the relevant information, the farmer will receive an email confirming ownership details for review.
The system is designed to be simple: movement tracking is only necessary if the horse is sold or dies. Horses born before August 2025 will not require microchipping, but owners may voluntarily chip and register these at any time.
There will be a one-time registration fee, but NZEHA will cover all subsequent costs over the horse’s lifetime.
As this is an industry-wide initiative, the system will apply to stationbred horses, including foals that are bred on farms in a managed herd with low levels of human contact. The NZEHA notes there are always risks, such as standardbred horses being purchased from high-density populations, horse sports or young horses being broken in and then sold. For the NEIT system to be robust, it needs to be a blanket approach.
“This is just the beginning,” Pearce said. “As the system continues to grow, the database will become more populated, and we will have a clearer picture of where horses are located, who owns them, and how we can protect the national herd.”
For more information, visit neit.org.nz.
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The National Equine Identification and Traceability programme launches in August this year
by Andy Bryenton
Optimism for nonpartisan RMA rewrite
Farmers are optimistic about details revealed about the Resource Management Act’s replacement, as efforts to overhaul the rules open up to opposition parties.
“We welcome the government’s blueprint for new planning legislation to replace the broken Resource Management Act,” says Federated Farmers RMA reform spokesperson Mark Hooper.
“Farmers are spending way too much time and money on costly resource consents and processes that are holding up investment in things like new water storage and rural infrastructure.
“The red tape and box-ticking has become totally ridiculous, which is why Federated Farmers has been pushing for sensible RMA reform that better protects landowners’ property rights.”
The core principle of the RMA’s replacement, as it applies to farmers, has been described as ‘pragmatic’ by Feds. It effectively means that, so long as a planned activity or build won’t have a negative effect outside of the boundaries of a farm, it will be permissible.
“You can essentially do what you want on your own land,” says Mr Hooper.
That’s a big change from the unwieldy RMA restrictions farmers have laboured under. An example cited was of a landowner not being able to choose what colour to paint their new shed. A big part of new proposals includes the need for local councils to pay compensation if they choose to restrict the use of privately-owned land. This became a threat when Significant
Natural Area mapping, under the former Labour-led government, became a point of contention, potentially locking farmers out of some areas on their own farms for ecological reasons.
“Compensating farmers for the loss of private property rights isn’t just fair, it also means councils will be much more reasonable and pragmatic about when they apply an overlay,” says Mr Hooper.
“Requiring councils to pay compensation will create a healthy tension where councils must have some skin in the game before putting restrictions over large swathes of the country.”
Labour and the Green Party have been invited to get involved in a nonpartisan, across-the-aisle effort to ensure that the Resource Management Act is replaced by a more liberal, usable system.
“Everyone agrees that the RMA is broken and in desperate need of replacement. It fails to deliver the infrastructure and development New Zealanders need, while at the same time fails to properly protect the environment,” says the minister leading RMA reform efforts, Chris Bishop.
“Where we see that compromise could be possible without undermining the intent of our reforms, the government will work collaboratively with the opposition to see whether a mutually agreeable position can be reached.”
RMA Reform Minister Simon Court says that current multi-party inclusive efforts are about ‘ending the culture of no’
BY DENISE GUNN
Josh O’Connell’s interest in phytotherapy began through developing his fondness for nature’s oddities.
After studying horticulture for four years, Joshua branched out into phytotherapy, finding therapeutic value in this area.
“My grandfather was an exceptional gardener. I’ve surely inherited that passion,” he said.
Phytotherapy is a form of plant-based therapy used to help relieve or reduce physical and psychological ailments.
Josh said phytotherapy isn’t limited to a species medicinal value.
“Even the aesthetic value ornamental plants have on the human psyche counts as a form of phytotherapy.
“To paint a perspective, I specialise in mutant cactus cultivars with stellar aesthetic value. This brings me great joy. It is particularly rewarding growing them from seed.”
During Josh’s four years of horticultural studies, he completed several courses through Land Based Training.
“I also conduct a lot of self-directed studies in my spare time. I apply this knowledge to projects based on my own
After studying horticulture for four years, Josh
personal interests, which correlate to various branches of horticulture.”
He said establishing Arid Phytotherapy Manawatū is essentially
the by-product of purchasing a single cactus in 2019.
“I became infatuated with this branch of arid-based horticulture.”
O’Connell developed a passion for phytotherapy
Josh considers phytotherapy more of a lifestyle practice than a sole occupation. Research and application flow naturally in his day-to-day life.
“I’m always trying to one up my craft with every dawning day. I always have multitudes of projects in the works at any given time and of course, this way of life is of great therapeutic value for myself.”
Working from his Sanson base, Josh has increased his collection of plants through propagation, predominantly from seed in a greenhouse on the property.
“However, I certainly propagate ideal clones via division. Essentially I’ve sown seed en masse, find the top one per cent of eye catchers and get to work with them, once their maturity warrants further action. This practice also keeps my workload down.
“I plan on breeding my absolute favourites to create seed and subsequent generations of aesthetically phenomenal plants.”
Josh’s greenhouse is the core component of his phytotherapy operation. However, all seedlings are initially grown
in an indoor set-up under synthetic lighting. This acclimatises the plants to the elements before they are transferred to the greenhouse.
As his crop grows year-round in his greenhouse, Josh can propagate via division during winter, too.
“It also extends the grafting window significantly.
“I strongly enjoy outdoor growing, also. If anything, the greenhouse speeds up the time of accomplishing maturity, which is crucial to determine keeper plants.
“This is required for my cacti breeding blueprint, not to mention the aesthetic of growing cacti in a greenhouse is unparalleled. Simply, pristine crops that retain eyecatching details that couldn’t otherwise be accomplished outdoors, such as gorgeous epidermal patterns and blue hues.”
Josh said with mid-summer temperatures breaking the threshold of 50C in the greenhouse, his plants are watered once or twice a week using harvested rainwater.
“I installed a guttering system, which runs parallel down both sides of the
“It’s taken a lot of time, effort and a lot of know-how, which has been derived from my qualifications and my own observations, research processes and subsequent applications of working in the wonderful field of cacti,” said Josh.
“I plan on breeding my absolute favourites to create seed and subsequent generations of aesthetically phenomenal plants.”
greenhouse. It is gravity-fed into four makeshift 1,000-litre stock feed tanks (food grade IBC tanks), which are connected to an electric water pump.
“I don’t usually fertilise my plants directly. My philosophy has always been, feed the soil, not the plant. Occasionally, I’ll pour an organic compost tonic or worm castings into my guttering system to accumulate and age in my rainwater tanks.”
Groups are welcome by appointment to visit and view Josh’s collection at Arid Phytotherapy Manawatū.
“I appreciate the odd sale as it assists me to continue funding amendments, such as soil to continue working this project to its full potential. Currently, this operation is hobbyist-oriented.”
Plants are grown year-round in Josh’s greenhouse Propagating
seeds
Josh’s collection of plants
The Wellington-born and bred city girl grew up with a love of animals.
However, working on a friend’s family dairy farm and an Angus stud sheep and beef property as part of her degree, came as a surprise to her family.
Zara graduated from Massey University in 2015, and returned eight years later for part-time postgraduate studies, with the
PLANNING FOR FUTURE GROWTH
aim of working towards her Master’s in Agricultural Science.
Now working as a fertiliser representative, Zara covers Manawatū, Dannevirke, Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne.
“I never thought I would be a fertiliser representative. I thought I would end up in animal nutrition but it’s a very niche area that is hard to get into,” said Zara.
BY DENISE GUNN
Zara van Hout first stepped foot on a farm while studying towards a Bachelor of Agricultural Science and Animal Science.
“It does all start with the soil to grow what you need to feed.”
Zara said she enjoys being outdoors and meeting all types of farmers in her role. Together with her partner Harvey, the couple is on track to lease his family’s dairy farm and buy the stock and plant in June. Zara milks and works on the farm every second weekend, and will soon take over the bookwork, too.
They are also expecting their first baby in April. A herd of 370 Holstein Friesian cows, along with Zara’s two Lakenvelder cows, are milked on the 144ha Oringi farm.
“I am the backup relief milker when needed. My mother-in-law and I are the calf rearers during calving. However, we are very fortunate to have calf robots though which the calves go on at 10 days old.
In November 2023, Zara took on the role as a Dairy Women’s Network regional leader
“It’s certainly a job that you have to enjoy, because if it was easy — everyone would be doing it.”
Seeing good grass growth in spring makes this season Zara’s favourite time of the year on-farm
Zara and Harvey rear their own mob of Friesian bull calves in spring, too.
“As we venture into owning and running the business, we are paying more attention to the payout, that’s for sure.”
Harvey and Zara aim to own the land within 10 years.
“Hopefully in the next five years we will have put some new calf robots in. We are interested in looking at new technology options as we learn to run the business ourselves.”
Spring is Zara’s favourite time of year on the farm.
“Although we no longer calve in spring, I do still enjoy seeing the grass growing, the cows out of the barn, and sunshine.
“Maybe that’s the inner fertiliser representative in me, loving seeing the grass growing. The cows always seem so
happy when going into nice lush grass twice a day.”
In autumn 2023, Zara attended a calf rearing expo held by Dairy Women’s Network (DWN) and joined as a member.
“I joined to meet other like-minded ladies in my community. As I moved to Dannevirke, away from all of my friends, I was looking for an avenue to develop relationships and for personal development.”
Soon afterwards, Zara received an email indicating that DWN was looking for regional leaders. She became a regional leader in November that year.
In this role, Zara mainly covers the Tararua area but is also in the Lower North Island Hub, organising and hosting events to bring the community together. “We all work together covering the Manawatū.”
As the regional leader representative on the DWN board, Zara appreciates learning about future plans for the organisation.
“My main focus is to try and increase the presence of DWN in the area. It will be a difficult task as the exposure has been down for a while. However, I am slowly trying to host more and more events to get the DWN name out there.”
Providing a place for women to develop friendships and personal development is one of Zara’s aims as a regional leader.
“I really want to provide that space for ladies in my area who aren’t just dairy farmers,” she said. “Seeing the other regions in the DWN organisation thrive, just inspires me to get our area looking the same.”
Zara with one of her Lakenvelder cows
CLIMBING TO NEW HEIGHTS
HWorld champion tree climber Steph Dryfhout took centre stage at the recent Ford New Zealand Rural Sports Awards, winning the Ford Supreme New Zealand Rural Sportsperson of the Year.
er track record of achievements, in New Zealand and around the world, also saw her earn the RX Plastics New Zealand Rural Sportswoman of the Year title.
Steph was raised in Feilding where she always enjoyed climbing trees as a child. However, it wasn’t until she was
feildingtractors2018@xtra.co.nz
training to be an arborist at Wintec, in Hamilton, that she began competing in tree climbing events.
“I was strongly encouraged to compete by my classmates,” said Steph.
Her first event in 2017 was the Waikato/ Bay of Plenty Regional Tree Climbing Competition held at Hamilton Lake.
BY DENISE GUNN
Two years later, Steph flew to the US for her first taste of international competition, competing at the International Tree Climbing Championship in Knoxville, Tennessee, placing second overall.
Te Puke-based Steph has racked up a number of major successes in the eight years since first stepping into the competition arena. She’s taken home the New Zealand Tree Climbing Championship title annually from 2018–2024, and twice won the ISA Asia-Pacific Tree Climbing Championship in 2023 and 2024.
Last year, she returned to the US, where on her fourth attempt won the world championship at the International Tree Climbing Championship (ITCC) held in Savannah, Georgia. Previously, Steph placed second in 2019, third in 2022 and fifth in 2023.
Steph won the title from 35 of the world’s elite female tree climbers,
The world champion tree climber is preparing for the 2025 International Tree Climbing Championship to be held in Christchurch in October
including six-time world champion Josephine Hedger from the UK. To qualify for this event, climbers must win either their national title or a global regional championship.
The 29-year-old finds staying cool and calm during moments of high pressure is the most challenging aspect of tree climbing.
“I try not being too hard on myself for making small mistakes,” said Steph. “I have overcome these by training myself to slow down in those situations and more positive self-talk.”
She said a lot of people have helped and given advice along her tree climbing journey.
“What I enjoy most about tree climbing is the community that comes along with the sport and the people in the industry. I also enjoy the challenge of every tree being different and being amongst nature.”
The New Zealand Arboricultural Association sends a coach to the world championships. Former New Zealand champion Paul Kenny has taken on
that coaching role, and also happens to be Steph’s employer at Paul Kenny Contracting in Te Puke.
“The most rewarding parts of the sport are learning new skills and ways of doing things, and being able to pass them on,” said Steph.
During her day-to-day work as an arborist, Steph carries out a range of practical duties and a small amount of arboricultural consultancy.
“Luckily, our day-to-day work crosses over with training. When the event gets closer, I will make an effort to break down the individual events, work on my weaknesses and increase my fitness level.”
Tree climbing is a growing sport in New Zealand and around the globe. There are four regional competitions held in New Zealand
in early summer and autumn, alongside a national championship to determine individual representatives.
“The internationals are always held in the northern hemisphere summer.”
Steph aims to continue improving and expanding her tree climbing abilities.
“It would be nice to win the international competition back-to-back this year.”
The 2025 International Tree Climbing Championship will be held in Christchurch from Friday, October 17 to Sunday, October 19. It will be the first time this event has been held in New Zealand.
Milestone for Mitchpine
by Denise Gunn
Mitchpine has achieved a significant milestone, celebrating 50 years in business this month.
The Horowhenua-based business began in 1975 when Keith Mitchell acquired a batten sawmill from the Oxnam family in Foxton. When Keith’s three sons, Grant (Butch), Alan and Ron finished secondary school, Mitchpine supplemented the family farms’ income.
“We were all keen to earn some extra money, so when dad got the batten sawmill, he put us to work,” said Grant.
Alan and Ron later moved on to other careers but Butch stayed with Mitchpine. Through hard work, determination and a passion for quality products, he continued to expand the business.
In 2019, Lee purchased Mitchpine from his father, and the business continues to grow under guidance of the family’s third generation.
Although Mitchpine has changed and developed markedly in the past 50 years, the determination to offer only quality timber has never changed. The business supplies directly to Mitre 10, Bunnings, PGG Wrightson, ITM, Farmlands, Placemakers, Buildlink, Carters and Farm Source throughout New Zealand.
Lee said Mitchpine offers the best outdoor posts, poles and timber.
“These are used for a number of different sectors from horticulture to construction. It’s used for fencing, retaining walls, through to marine wharfs, windbreaks and orchards.”
Mitchpine has been involved in exporting wood off and on, which has included
telephone posts to Vanuatu and pre-made outdoor furniture to Japan.
Although that didn’t last long as the market changed, Mitchpine has since continued to export.
“Last year, we sent 20 containers of wood to Japan for Kiwifruit orchards.”
In keeping up with a constantly changing industry, Mitchpine imported and developed a new roundwood mill. This mill has increased efficiency in a safer indoor environment for staff.
“Along with this, the 3D laser technology ensures the right wood is used for the product and no waste. When producing roundwood, you only use 70% of the wood for the intended product,” said Lee.
“At Mitchpine, none of the leftover wood is wasted. It is used for wood chip or used for our own biomass needs.”
A fully-automated strapping machine is currently being created. Lee said this type of machinery is currently used in the steel industry to strap bundles of steel but hasn’t yet been used in the wood industry.
The dedicated team is also working towards Mitchpine achieving Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) by the end of 2025. Mitchpine’s proud legacy as a trusted supplier of premium timber for the last 50 years continues as the business looks to the future.
Farming is tough on hand joints
by John Arts, Abundant Health Ltd
A farmer contacted me almost a year ago with significant pain from osteoarthritis. He had severe wrist, thumb and shoulder issues.
This sort of discomfort is quite debilitating for farmers who use their hands constantly in a variety of often heavy farm tasks. The bottom thumb joint, the carpometacarpal joint (CMC), is highly susceptible to osteoarthritis, which is worsened by heavy hand use.
Research studies have shown that farmers are particularly susceptible to osteoarthritis due to the physical demands of their work. The constant and repetitive use of hands for heavy tasks, such as lifting, gripping and manipulating tools, contributes to the wear and tear on joints. Furthermore, outdoor conditions can exacerbate the pain and progression of osteoarthritis, impacting farmers’ health and productivity.
Osteoarthritis is primarily caused by the death of chondrocytes, the cells responsible for maintaining healthy cartilage. When chondrocytes die, the cartilage deteriorates, leading to joint pain, stiffness and decreased function. The processes that cause loss of chondrocytes are worsened by joint trauma of which farmers are at greater risk.
I started my client on intensive nutritional therapy for three months. This involved adding chondroitin sulphate and glucosamine sulphate at 1,600mg daily and a 100% water soluble curcumin (from turmeric) extract. Of these, chondroitin sulphate is by far the most important, as chondroitin is an actual constituent of cartilage.
After three months, he reported significant reduction in pain. He still had some discomfort in his thumbs and one finger but could now close his hands without too much trouble. He now reports that he has no pain at all and is doing well on the lower maintenance doses. This again testifies to our wonderful healing processes once we add what our body really needs.
Contact me if you need help.
John Arts (Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on 0800 423 559 or email john@ abundant.co.nz. Join his newsletter at abundant.co.nz.
What is Bettaflex?
• Bettaflex is a joint support formula to promote healthy joint cartilage function
• Bettaflex has 400mg (per capsule) of high-grade avian chondroitin, 400mg of glucosamine and 100mg of BioSolve® bioavailable Curcumin (from turmeric).
• Try Bettaflex for 3 months and see for yourself.
How can Bettaflex help?
• Chondroitin and glucosamine are building blocks of cartilage.
• Supplementation with correct levels can support healthy cartilage function and cartilage repair processes.
• New BioSolve® bioavailable curcumin helps joint function while gentle on the stomach.
• Research indicates that chondroitin is highly effective at 800mg daily.
John Arts comments:
“My latest Bettaflex formula includes BioSolve® bioavailable curcumin for faster results. The normal dose is 2 capsules daily but I recommend an initial higher dose for 1-3 bottles to saturate join tissue.”
The team at Horowhenua-based timber supply company Mitchpine celebrates 50 years in business this month
Compact handheld pruning saw ideal for pruning trees and cutting down garden waste with a branch thickness up to 75mm Easy tool-free replacement of the chain and bar and improved safety with an anti-slip handle Bio Chain oil included (50mL)
by Andy Bryenton
Tariffs a crisis and an opportunity
New Zealand will not engage in a tariff war that would only hurt local consumers, say government officials responding to a 10 per cent tariff levelled at Kiwi exporters by US president Donald Trump.
“New Zealand exporters will face a 10 per cent tariff rate from April 5. While this is a significant development, New Zealand remains competitive against other exporters in the US market,” said Agriculture and Trade Minister Todd McClay.
Dairy exports to the US, amounting to $1.2 billion annually, already face a stiff 19 per cent tariff, and the new measures levelled against them could push this up to almost one-third. There are similar fears for what was a burgeoning wine export trade to North American cellars and tables.
The 10 per cent tariff New Zealand faces is retaliation by president Trump for what he claims is a 20 per cent monetary or non-tariff barrier to US imports to New Zealand, though his Kiwi counterparts are struggling to see how this adds up. The average tariff this country imposes on US goods is 1.8 per cent. There’s suspicion that Mr Trump has bungled the figures, and is referencing the 20 per cent trade deficit between the US and New Zealand. That’s hardly heartening news for exporters.
New Zealand farming’s red sector will also be one of the most affected
areas of the economy as US tariffs bite. Before the tariffs, more than 180,000 tonnes of Kiwi beef were shipped to North America, and demand is likely to stay high as it’s seen as a top-notch quality product.
“Tariffs distort trade and reduce market efficiency, ultimately forcing exporters and producers to accept lower prices while leaving consumers with fewer choices and higher costs,” said Meat Industry Association CEO Sirma Karapeeva.
At the same time, with tariff wars striking many of New Zealand’s other trading partners, buying US red meat might seem like a losing proposition to other nations that could turn to Kiwi farmers for supply.
Trade deals could be inked in the coming weeks and months, pushing the already buoyant price of beef and lamb higher still. This could well be exacerbated by the fact that licences for US meat processing plants, required to export to the massive market of China, are not being renewed. Todd McClay indicates that trade diplomats are actively seeking opportunities in India, Europe, the UAE and the UK as the tariff fallout settles.
The government says that there will be no retaliatory tariffs levelled at the US after Donald Trump slapped a 10 per cent tariff on Kiwi exports
Identify your target beyond all doubt. Whether you’re using optical or thermal imaging devices, if in doubt, don’t shoot!
Image courtesy of Matt Winter Photography
FISHING, HUNTING & OUTDOORS
by Andy Bryenton
Two changes to boost access for hunters
Next month will see the launch of a new hunting permit system across New Zealand, improving access to public conservation land, while health and safety changes promise friendlier relations with landowners.
“Longer permits, automatic reminders and better navigation are part of a significant upgrade that will make life easier for 34,000 hunters that hunt on open conservation land,” says Hunting and Fishing Minister James Meager.
“The underlying technology of the current hunting permit system is outdated and in need of an update, and is being improved based on the direct feedback of hunters. This upgrade will support more hunters, both domestic and international, getting out and doing what they love.”
Permits jump up in their utility, going from a four-month span to a full year. Two weeks before a permit expires, its holder will be sent an automatic message so they can renew it, if they so choose. The whole system has been optimised for mobile devices and phones to make things even easier.
“The upgraded system will also make selecting hunting areas easier. Instead of the 54 hunting areas that hunters currently choose from, the system will be simplified so hunters choose from eight regions, four in the North Island and four
in the South Island, including Stewart Island,” says Mr Meager. “All existing hunting areas within the broader region will automatically be included on the permit, and hunters can also select all hunting areas within New Zealand at the press of a single button.
“These may be simple changes, but they reflect a government, which is committed to making it easier for New Zealanders to go hunting and fishing on conservation land, and is willing to listen to the feedback of the hunting community to do so.”
Additionally, there’s a significant change coming as part of the coalition government’s efforts to reform health and safety rules. Under the new proposal, landowners will not be responsible if someone is injured on their land while undertaking recreational activities. Health and safety responsibilities will sit unequivocally with the people or the group organising those activities.
“For many Kiwis, outdoor recreational activities are a way of life that has been enjoyed for generations. Unfortunately, New Zealand’s work health and safety settings have reduced the appetite to allow these activities, inadvertently creating a culture of fear amongst landowners, who are now worried about their legal liability if someone gets hurt,” said Safety Minister Brooke van Velden.
The changes will apply to public and private land, covering farms, forests, school grounds, council properties, parks, national parks and more.
“I want Kiwis to be able to hunt, fish, hike, climb, mountain bike, kayak and so much more without being caught up in health and safety red tape,” says Brooke van Velden
FISHING, HUNTING & OUTDOORS
ADVERTORIAL
Solid duck numbers in prospect for season
After a wetter-than-usual month in September, wetlands were well-stocked with water heading into summer, supporting a successful waterfowl breeding season.
This led to strong mallard duck and paradise shelduck broods and stable black swan populations in the Wellington Fish & Game region.
While the Manawatū area saw some dryness, sporadic rain kept ponds topped up and birds have tended to congregate in areas with permanent water, such as rivers, streams, and ponds. This concentration could lead to a successful opening day for hunters, assuming dry conditions continue. Hunters should monitor water levels at their chosen spots and remain flexible, moving to alternative locations if necessary.
Latest climate forecasts have indicated that near normal rainfall is expected for most of the lower North Island. So some periods of rain would certainly be welcomed in late April and early May to move the birds around.
As the season progresses, ducks will disperse, providing hunting opportunities in new areas, such as crop paddocks.
This is where local farmers working with hunters can prove to be beneficial. The farmer benefits from hunters dispersing birds, and hunters get a chance to harvest a feed for the family. Often landowners possess key information on game bird
and
habits, such as their morning and evening flight patterns and feeding areas, which is critical information for setting decoy spreads in the most effective locations. The set-up for hunters doesn’t need to be extravagant. A
half-dozen full-bodied decoys and some camouflage netting draped for cover can work very well.
Wellington-Taranaki Fish & Game encourages hunters to explore new locations,
connect with others, and have a safe and successful season.
Duck Hunting Season starts on May 3 2025 at 6:30am — daily limit: mallard 10 birds a day, paradise shelduck 10 birds a day.
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ELECTRA BUSINESS & INNOVATION AWARDS
Happy hunter
retriever after a successful opening morning in the lower North Island last season
by Paul Campbell
Field food for thought
Farming in New Zealand is nothing if not innovative, and before too long it will be time to catch up with the latest ideas at National Fieldays at Mystery Creek, but in the meantime, farm work goes on.
With the practice of wintering animals on forage crops commonplace in New Zealand, the government’s AgResearch has been investigating different methods of grazing over winter to maintain farm returns and improve environmental performance.
Traditional winter crop systems, such as those dominated by swedes, fodder beet and kale, are characterised as having a high yield from a defined area. They have advantages over pasture species, such as continued growth into the winter, providing high feed energy with good utilisation, and are simply managed by the farmer.
However, there are disadvantages, namely mud. The mud is problematic due to many factors, such as reducing feed intake, animal comfort and lying down as well as possible pathogens. To mitigate these multi-graze crops refers to paddocks that are grazed multiple times.
A functional multi-species forage mixture will include a high-yielding brassica for bulk, such as kale, swede, turnips.
There are one or two pasture grasses with cool-season activity for winter and spring growth, including Italian ryegrass, prairie grass and also cereals for bulk, like ryecorn, oats and some legumes for feed quality and nitrogen fixation. The latter includes peas, faba beans and clovers. Other species that may be included for
environmental reasons, such as plantain, to help reduce potential nitrate leaching.
In a recent trial, in April by grazing ewes at 50/ha for 42 days showed their liveweight was 68kg, had a growth rate of 100g/day, intake at 1.7kg DM/head/day: this totalled 3.57 tDM/ha eaten over the grazing duration.
At the same time, pasture area is released to either accumulate feed for winter or improve the feeding of other animals. This is equivalent to an area of 4.25ha of pasture for every ha of crop grazed. Multi-species forage mixtures will be successful if the feed is utilised by the right stock at the right time and seed company recommendations are observed regarding maturity of crop, grazing cycles to maximise production and feed quality, etc.
It is also key that forage is utilised before it dies and block grazing is employed, not strip grazing. It is recommended that a two to four-day grazing period is used and a final note — stock are moved if the weather is bad and returned later when that paddock dries out.
by Andy Bryenton
Freshwater plans retooled
Small block farmers are less likely to have to implement a freshwater farm plan under new changes announced by the government last week, and large farms will be able to manage fresh water resources with less complexity and cost.
Agriculture Minister Todd McClay and Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard claim that the changes they have made to freshwater farm plans will make the system ‘more practical and affordable’.
Ministers have agreed to reduce the number of farms required to have a plan and to take a risk-based approach to certification. Plans will still manage environmental impacts, but without unnecessary red tape.
“We’re recognising existing industry programmes that achieve equivalent environmental outcomes, farmers shouldn’t have to complete multiple plans,” says Mr McClay. “The new system will also act as an alternative to local council rules and consents where appropriate, allowing landowners to meet requirements in a way that suits their farm systems.”
Even before the roll-out of freshwater farm plans was paused last year, in order for fine-tuning of the system to be discussed in Wellington, industry advocates were calling such plans a better alternative to the ‘blunt instrument’ of the RMA.
“It’s never made sense for farmers to be farming by resource consent. Resource
consents are a costly, time-consuming and bureaucratic way to improve farming practice,” said Federated Farmers RMA reform spokesperson Mark Hooper.
“At the same time, caution needs to be exercised in trying to standardise farming too much, as every farm, catchment and community is different. The freshwater farm plan model, introduced by the previous government and amended by the current, is a tool that can replace the need for resource
consent. It is a ready-to-go standard for farming with huge buy-in from farmers, sector groups, and regional councils.”
“Farm plans are useful tools, but they must be practical and matched to actual environmental risk,” said Andrew Hoggard.
“These changes reflect our shift from a precautionary to a more permissive, riskbased approach, ensuring landowners can use their property more freely, while
protecting the environment and their rights,” said Mr McClay.
The Tairāwhiti-Gisborne area has been chosen as the pilot region for the new freshwater farm plan roll-out, which will begin this year. Alterations to rules around freshwater and how it’s used on farms are part of wide-reaching Resource Management Act repeals, replacements and retooling that has formed a large part of the coalition government’s rural policy platform.
Agriculture Minister Todd McClay has advanced government plans to make water management on farms
by Paul Campbell
Time for pasture care
Regional farmers will be looking towards establishing good growth by preparing pastures for spring and safeguarding them from pugging damage caused by expected wet winter conditions.
Average pasture cover is known as APC, and this needs to be viable for calving and meeting milking herd feed requirements. Strategies to prevent pugging damage recommended by DairyNZ include building pasture cover before wet periods, early grazing of vulnerable paddocks and utilising on-off grazing with well-designed stand-off areas. Sacrifice paddocks can be introduced, by which a smaller farm area can be lost to allow for enhanced regrowth in other areas.
Winter offers an opportunity to reset the residuals’ level for the coming season and ensure leaf growth is promoted. From June to August, in particular, pasture management means grazing during winter is about transferring autumn and wintergrown pasture into early spring to achieve target average pasture cover (APC) at calving, and meet the feed requirements of the milking herd.
Moist, cool conditions mean ryegrass is forgiving of stress, such as severe grazing, except where high soil moisture leads to pugging damage.
To improve persistence involves managing the transition from winter to ensure appropriate covers are reached in spring. Pugging reduces tiller density and allows weed ingress and reduces subsequent pasture production, and some consideration might be given to standing cows off on races or feed pads.
It’s been established that grazing at high stock density on wet soils reduces subsequent pasture production by up to 45% the following year.
It is important to determine the leaf stage of your own pastures. Leaf appearance rates mainly depend on temperature and water availability with leaves taking longer to appear in colder temperatures or where water is limited.
It’s also time to ensure cows are in good body condition, as fat acts as insulation. Aim to put on body condition in early winter. Keep an eye out for health issues, and transition cows on to winter crops gradually to prevent illness.
Cow wellbeing goes beyond providing food, water and health care. Consider important cow behaviours, such as lying down, rest, access to shelter and how it affects their experience. Cows can be healthy and well-fed, but still experience
frustration and fatigue, which impacts their overall wellbeing.
If, though, a herd is under the care of a grazier, it’s worth noting that the owner has the responsibility of animal welfare, so a good choice of staff goes without saying.
The ICE Electrical difference
A Manawatū electrical services company is focussed on making the farming lifestyle easier.
ICE Electrical Manawatū is a specialist electrical services provider offering its clients 24/7 support, as and when needed, to keep farms and businesses running at full capacity.
“Breakdowns hardly ever happen during standard business hours, so we both recognise and understand the need for constant availability,” says managing director Mike Tantrum.
“When the grid goes down, particularly during calving and milking seasons, it completely disrupts a farm’s ability to function at a time when power needs to be at its most reliable. Often, the grid can stay down for days,” he says.
“Outages do more than just potentially cause damage to improperly protected sensitive equipment, every drop of milk or centimetre of crops lost is dollars down the drain. Not to mention the potential longer term impact on a farm’s ability to produce and supply for that and even the following season.
“We focus on sustainable solutions, whether it’s solar panels with battery backup, pumps/generators, automation, servicing and maintenance or an unexpected equipment malfunction.”
ICE Electrical was established in Taranaki in 2011, with the goal of delivering excellent electrical services to its clients. It expanded to Hawke’s Bay in 2021 and Manawatū in 2022.
All are strong commercial and industrial electricians with the knowledge and skills to be able to support the rural community well. ICE Electrical’s 24/7 availability depends on the region.
They are the deliverers of projects, such as the two recent Hastings water treatment plants, Open Country Dairy’s wastewater
treatment plant, located in Waikato, and Te Whatu Ora Taranaki’s recent Hospital BMS upgrade.
“We aim to work closely with our clients to create a solution to meet their particular needs whether they’re a farmer, an industrial or commercial business or something in between,” Mike says.
“Our approach is to look at where we can reduce energy consumption, as well as reduce downtime and increase capacity and capability.
“With ICE Electrical, you can rest assured that your farm’s electrical systems
are in good hands, ensuring a productive, profitable future.”
Interested in experiencing the endless benefits or reliable power? Contact ICE Electrical at mwoffice@iceelectrical.co.nz.
ICE Electrical Manawatu team (from left): Les Austin, Dave Fontillas, Luke Scarrett, Mike Burns and Andy Lennon
WINTER FOCUS
by Paul Campbell
Check the house and relax
The cold and wet days of winter are not far away and while the drought days are with us, now is a good time to check that all will be well, when it’s time to spend more time inside the home.
Getting things ship-shape in autumn means relaxing in winter as more rain,
wind and cooler weather takes hold. It’s a good plan to have a list of things to do. While it is still a fine time outside, a first job would be to guard against possible draughts or water leaks, and check for any cracks or gaps that might fall foul in heavy rain and high winds.
Water ingress can soon develop into mould and a commercial gap-stopping compound can guard against this. Mould is a no-no, and if it appears, seek professional advice, as it can affect household health.
A check on the chimney will be timely, too — check online for a local chimney sweep service. However, we are concentrating on outside tasks for the present, and a major pre-winter check has to be the roof and guttering. Be aware, too, that the roof involves working at height, and there are new rules regarding scaffolding requirements. Check Worksafe New Zealand to be sure, and you will learn that preventing falls from roofs is a priority. Investigations by WorkSafe into falls while working at height
show that more than 50 per cent of falls are from less than three metres. Most of these falls are from ladders and roofs, and the cost of these falls is estimated to be $24 million a year — to say nothing of the human cost as a result of these falls. Thus, it might be an idea to contract out roof and guttering inspection. Cleaning out your gutters will stave off any leaking problems as well as ensure, if you are rurally located and rely on tank supply, that your water source is clean. It will also help to prevent water damage to your roof and other parts of your house.
Get the brackets that secure the gutters and spouts checked when you have them cleaned. They may have become unclipped over time, and can fall down in a storm when you need them most. It is also a good time in autumn to take a look at the garden and guard against anything that might be a winter problem, in particular, trees and bushes that might need trimming back, if close to the house. By pruning overgrown branches near electrical wires or your roof, you can ensure high winds don’t become a danger.
It’s a fine time to prepare the home
WINTER FOCUS
by Amy Fifita
While opening doors and windows is a common summertime trend, it is also necessary in winter. Yes, finding refuge in the comfort of a warm home by the fireplace is a leisurely time, but so is maintaining good air quality, respiratory health and a moisture-free environment.
Ventilation ensures stale air and moisture are released from the home and deters mould growth, especially in laundries, bathrooms and kitchens. Shower domes are another solution to controlling dampness in the home.
Move air by opening a door or window on either side of the house and in wet areas, even if it’s only for 15 minutes a day. Exhaust fans are useful above the stovetop or shower, allowing damp air to be extracted.
Consider installing or maintaining a ventilation system. Ventilation systems are preferably installed if you have floor and ceiling insulation and a heat source, like a pump or fireplace.
There are different types of systems. More suitable for houses with wooden
A breath of dry air
joinery, positive pressure ventilation circulates drier air from the roof space or outdoors. With dry, and normally cooler air, being shifted into the home space, having a heat source is a must to maintain warmth.
Whereas positive pressure systems introduce dry air, balanced pressure ventilation extracts damp air and replaces it with heated dry air using heat exchanger technology. This system works well in modern-built and wellsealed homes.
These systems allow houses to maintain a balanced temperature and humidity for healthier home environments. If a dryer is in the home, this, too, can be utilised, by using a ducting kit.
Leaving a gap between walls and furniture creates a space for air to move freely, decreasing the risks of mould. Another great device to use is a dehumidifier, or for something more power-efficient, enlist a few moisture absorbers to soak up the dampness.
FAULDINGS 2019 LTD
Providing electrical services to the Feilding, Bulls, Marton and the greater Manawatu areas 06 323 6068
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Wayne Duncan Builder completes new homes, home renovations and light commercial projects in Palmerston North, Manawatu, Horowhenua, Tararua and Rangitikei.
Proud to be locally owned and operated. Born and bred in the region, company owner Wayne Duncan is proud to have built and renovated many homes in Palmerston North and surrounds for satisfied clients over the years. As members of New Zealand Certified Builders Wayne’s clients are always assured of extremely high levels of quality and a successful end result no matter how large or small the project.
How you ventilate your home affects the air quality for the inhabitants
