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BRUCE GORDON CONTRACTING CLEARANCE SALE
Award-winner found programme hugely beneficial
Woodhaven Gardens operations general manager Adam Jory has won the 2025 Rabobank Management Project award.
Adam took out the Trans-Tasman Farm Management Award after being selected from a group of New Zealand’s and Australia’s most progressive farmers, and graduates of the 2024 Rabobank Farm Managers Programme (FMP). Adam was recognised for his business management project, which highlighted how he utilised the lessons from the programme to measure and improve performance at Woodhaven Gardens.
The Horowhenua-based commercial growing operation is based south-east of Levin, producing a wide range of vegetables throughout the year. Since starting out cleaning windows at Woodhaven as a schoolboy, Adam has now been employed by the business for a total of 25 years, across two stints.
Adam moved up the ranks at Woodhaven and is now employed as the operations general manager. In this role, he oversees around 180 staff and is responsible for the day-to-day running of the business, including harvesting, packing, packhouse, cool stores and distribution.
He said his management project took a deep dive into the resources available and required for him in his role, as well as the structure and capability of his team.
“The project looked at the metrics in the business that are key to success, and made use of several of the tools and frameworks introduced in this programme. When we started measuring and analysing these metrics, we found that the business wasn’t far off on a lot of key measures.”
Adam found the project was a great way to hold himself accountable and to work through how the team can be that little bit better. One of the areas where the
project had functioned as the incentive for significant improvement was staff reviews.
Head of sales enablement for Rabobank
Australia Peter D’Esposito acted as one of the judges for the Management Project Award. He said Adam’s project illustrated his understanding of the task at hand, beginning with a candid assessment of the operation’s readiness for growth.
“From there, Adam implemented a rigorous analysis of performance metrics and cost of production, establishing a data-driven foundation for decisionmaking. He introduced a culture of accountability across all levels of his team, including himself, his supervisors and staff, ensuring that performance was consistently measured and improved.”
Another of the judges, Horticulture New Zealand CEO Kate Scott, said Adam’s project reflected on his personal shortcomings as a deep driver to becoming a better leader.
Adam accepted the award in late June, and said the FMP was a great course with a top line-up of speakers.
“I’m really grateful to Woodhaven for funding my participation in the programme as I found it hugely beneficial.”
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From left: FMP management project judge Rabobank Australia head of sales enablement Peter D’Esposito, Adam Jory and his wife Pauline, and Rabobank business management programmes director Robin Stonecash
by Paul Campbell
Kiwi shearers lead in Europe
New Zealand shearing champion Toa Henderson has claimed his first big
international final at the French championships.
The win came at Boussac, where he, and Wools of New Zealand national teammate and open final runner-up Jack Fagan also beat France in a test match on July 14, the French Bastille Day holiday.
Shearing in Europe for the first time, Henderson’s win followed a fourth placing in the Scottish black face shearing championships final at the Lochearnhead Shears on June 28, and third in the Great Yorkshire Shears Show Open final on July 9.
Fagan won the Boussac Speed Shear, with Henderson claiming second place. With a loss against Scotland and wins over England and France, the pair takes a two–one record on tour going into a threetest series against Wales, beginning July 19, at Cothi.
Henderson and Fagan continued a downunder dominance of England at the Great Yorkshire Show by winning the second test of their 2025 Wools of New Zealand Tour of the UK and France.
With Henderson first to finish the test of 20 Swaledale hoggets each, which he shore in 13m 43s, also scoring the best points overall, the pair beat England shearers, Nick Greaves and Dean Nelmes, by 4.3 points.
Fagan was also runner-up to Welsh shearer Gethin Lewis in defence of the Great Yorkshire open title Fagan won last
year, when he and Greaves both featured in a test match New Zealand won by just 0.55 points.
Henderson, the Golden Shears and New Zealand Shears open champion, just a fortnight into his first shearing in the Northern Hemisphere, on his first tour in the New Zealand singlet, and currently a clear leader in the 2026 World Championships New Zealand team selection series back home, was also first to finish the open final but had to settle for third place overall.
He shore the 20 sheep in 13m 5s, beating Lewis by 16 seconds and also claiming the scalp of 2019 world champion and Welsh gun Richard Jones, whom he beat by almost two minutes.
Among other New Zealand shearers at the Great Yorkshire Show, at Harrowgate, was Golden Shears senior champion Bruce Grace, who just missed a place in the senior final, and with Paul Hodges, of Geraldine, for a New Zealand selection in an open/senior relay, in which they were fourth.
Toa Henderson in action at the Great Yorkshire Show
After the three-match series against Wales, the men head home for the New Zealand season starting in the South Island in October.
True dahlia delights
by Denise Gunn
A lifelong love of flowers led Emma True to establish her flower farm on a Kairanga dairy farm.
Alifelong love of flowers led Emma True to establish her flower farm on a Kairanga dairy farm.
Gardening is a cherished tradition in Emma’s family, inspiring each generation’s passion for growing flowers.
“I’ve always loved flowers,” said Emma.
“Whether it’s a floral dress, artwork or fresh arrangements around the house, they add a cheerful touch and instantly brighten any space.”
In 2022, while scrolling through Instagram, Emma came across content about a flower farm in the US. This
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sparked an idea for establishing her flower farm, Dahlias & Co.
“I was looking for something meaningful and flexible. Something I could work on while the kids are at school, but that still allowed me to be present for school events and family time.”
Following countless hours reading, researching and learning, Emma and her husband, Shane, laid out the foundations for their flower farm in May that year.
At that time, the couple was living on a Kairanga dairy farm where Shane worked as farm manager.
Although Emma grew a few different flower varieties, she decided to specialise in growing premium, soughtafter dahlias.
“From their stunning blooms to tuber sales, seed collection, breeding and cuttings, there’s so much potential packed into these flowers.”
A love for flowers inspired Emma to establish her flower farm, specialising in growing premium dahlias
Emma’s husband Shane and their two daughters, Paige and Pippa, also help out in the flower farm
Emma finds it rewarding to grow dahlias, and see them feature in weddings and stores
After measuring and marking out rows, the area was then sprayed to kill off the grass and weeds.
“After letting that sit for a bit, we rotaryhoed the soil to loosen it up and get it ready for planting,” she said.
Potato fertiliser was added to give the tubers the best start.
“Dahlias and potatoes have similar needs when it comes to nutrients. We also worked in some good old sheep pellets to enrich the soil even more.
“Once everything was mixed in, we laid down weedmat to help keep the beds tidy and reduce weed pressure. Then we let the beds rest for a few months before planting.”
Due to dahlias’ sensitivity to frost, Emma waited until the risk of the last frost had passed before planting the tubers.
“For most of New Zealand, that means waiting until around October. It’s always worth being patient to give your flowers the best chance to thrive.”
Through propagation and dividing dahlias, Dahlias & Co’s growing capacity expanded from the 30 dahlias the business began with, to now selling 800. Emma sells directly to florists, local shops and online to the public.
Next season, Dahlias & Co will be supplying dahlias to New Zealand’s largest flower broker United Flower Growers.
“Over the past few seasons, the demand for dahlia flowers has been strong with both bloom and tuber prices seeing significant growth,” said Emma. Her first season as a flower farmer came with a hard lesson.
“We unknowingly used what’s known as killer compost. A term for compost, mulch or manure contaminated with herbicide residues.
“Unfortunately, it wiped out nearly all our plants. Thankfully, it was our very first season and we had only planted about 30 dahlias, but it was still incredibly disheartening.”
The couple had to start from scratch again the following season.
Emma generally tends to the flower farm’s day-to-day chores on her own. She also designed all the business’s branding and built the website. “I wear many hats from grower, florist, photographer, social media manager, website designer to customer service representative.”
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Work on the flower farm continues all-year-round with different seasonal tasks required.
Shane assists with the bigger jobs. Their daughters, Paige, 13, and Pippa, 8, also lend a hand.
“Balancing it all has been a real challenge and, as we continue to grow, it might finally be time to bring in a bit of help,” said Emma.
Since opening Dahlias & Co, Emma finds reward not only in growing blooms, but also seeing her dahlias feature in weddings and stores.
“It’s been amazing to see our flowers reaching so many different places and forming connections with fellow flower lovers.
“Farming is in my blood and that connection to the land has definitely shaped my journey,” she said.
In June, the True family moved to a dairy farm near Feilding to take up a contract milking position.
“We will be still growing our beautiful dahlias and more,” said Emma.
Since laying the foundations for her flower farm in May 2022, Emma has significantly increased the number of dahlias growing
Dahlias & Co’s flowers are sold directly to florists, local shops and online to the public
Wonders of Rangiwahia
by Amy Fifita
Fourth-generation Rangiwahia farmer Steve Bielski and his wife, Mary, began breeding Texel sheep in 1991, an exotic breed that he still loves to this day.
“In 1973, at age 21, my father and I bought the neighbouring farm. A year later, I met Mary, a trainee nurse at Palmerston North Hospital, and we married in 1975,” said Steve.
“After my father’s passing in 1976, Mary and I farmed 1,035 acres while raising our three sons.”
Steve developed a strong interest in Texel sheep after European breeds, including Texels that were introduced in the mid-1980s. Disappointed with his existing flock, he purchased Texels
straight out of quarantine in the early 1990s and began developing his own line — the Highland Texel Stud.
“With the neighbouring farm converting to dairy in 2007, we sold most of their land, keeping 35 acres and our home. I continued breeding Texels, including Highland Texel stud rams, and now collaborates with my brother Jock near Āpiti.
“The stud uses top-performing UK sires, improving body and neck length, which has virtually eliminated issues with cast
sheep. The flock is known for strong feet, good structure and excellent meat yield.”
Last year’s scanning hit a record 179%, though Steve notes higher rates bring too many triplets. After selling the farm, Steve turned his focus to tourism.
“With farm amalgamation leading to a decline in the local rural population, I saw tourism as a way to draw people into the area to experience the beautiful scenery and support those businesses reliant on visitor spending. With Highways One and Two bypassing the
region, we set out to promote northern Manawatū’s natural attractions. A key obstacle was the unsealed road between Rangiwahia and Apiti, which was finally sealed in 2011 after years of lobbying the council.
“Along with the sealing of Ruahine Road in 2003, the NZTA was allowed to create a scenic inland route from Mangaweka to Ashhurst via the Pohangina Valley. With community support and backing from groups like Destination Manawatū (now CEDA), the project succeeded.”
Steve and Mary Bielski were married in 1975 and went on to farm, while raising their three sons
Twenty two-tooth sheep, granddaughters of Vorn Aberystwyth, running through the gate with ewe hoggets in the background
The route has boosted local tourism and has supported businesses like the Apiti Tavern, Awastone, Cross Hills Gardens and various accommodation providers.
A motorhome site beside Rangiwahia Hall, with proceeds going back to the community, has become popular with cyclists, including those on the Tour Aotearoa. A two-dollar coin provides a hot shower before continuing on to the next stop.
“The new Mangaweka Bridge, enabled by NZTA subsidy and Manawatū and Rangītikei councils, has further improved access for heavy vehicles like buses, trucks, and motorhomes. We also created a website, irongates.co.nz, to promote northern Manawatū.
“My passion for the community led me into local politics, and I am now
in my twelfth year on the Manawatū District Council.”
Also a family man, Steve is proud of his three sons, Hamish, Peter and David. All are married, and Steve and Mary have 10 grandchildren.
“Hamish farms sheep and beef south of Balclutha with his wife Amy. To support the farm, he has returned to shearing and enjoys it. He previously worked at Kelso Genetics and as genetics manager at Mt Linton Station.
“Peter left farming to pursue rugby, playing 46 games for Hawke’s Bay before joining North Harbour and playing 10 games for the NZ Divisional XV. He later moved to Germany, learned the language, and worked for Europe’s largest building company, specialising in passive house construction.
“Returning to New Zealand after the Christchurch earthquake, he and his wife, Amanda, founded Ethos Homes, where he now employs four staff.
“David, the youngest, studied at Taratahi Wairarapa and spent two years in Ireland on a farming exchange, where he met his wife, Miriam. He later worked at Mt Linton Station as cropping and pasture manager, and now manages Craigmore Station near Timaru.
“He has been building a Texel flock and was pleased to
receive seven ram lambs from me this year.
Hamish and Peter trained at Smedley Station in Hawke’s Bay, while Hamish and David both completed a Diploma in Agriculture at Lincoln University.”
Steve purchased Texel sheep from quarantine and started breeding his own line
Steve’s passion for community has led him to help boost local tourism in Rangiwahia and become a district councillor
Farmers give time to students
by Denise Gunn
Signing up for Farmer Time for Schools has given Rangiwahia farmers Mike Gee-Taylor and his daughter, Heather,
their farming journey with school students.
The innovative programme, set up by Beef + Lamb New Zealand, connects farmers with New Zealand primary and intermediate school students. Through live virtual video calls, the programme aims to engage, inspire and educate students about the food journey from farm to fork. Heather first heard about the initiative through a friend while she was on the Agri-Women’s Development Trust Escalator programme.
“She really enjoyed it, so I signed us up, and then told dad what I had signed us up for,” said Heather.
Mike and Heather farm three properties, totalling 1,000ha within a four-kilometre radius. They run 3,700 ewes, 250 breeding cows and around 200 dairy grazers. The pair also owns a fencing contracting business, and Heather breeds horses, too. This is their third year of Farmer Time for Schools.
“We spent our first year of Farmer Time for Schools with a school from the Hauraki Plains. Most of the kids that were from farms were from a dairy farm, not sheep and beef, so it was interesting for them to see what happens on a sheep and beef farm.”
Heather said signing up for Farmer Time for Schools backs their belief that education around the farming sector is important.
“As farmers, we have a great story to tell, and we spend a lot of time telling adults about it. However, the knowledge starts at the ground level, and we love the concept of telling kids about what we do on the farm.”
Now paired with a year five and six class at Pleasant Point Primary, the students had prepared questions for Mike and Heather to answer during their first session. Heather said this
Rangiwahia farmer Heather Gee-Taylor is in the third year of sharing her farming journey with a class through Farmer Time for Schools
helped to get the ball rolling with introductions.
“We just introduced ourselves and showed in the video what our farm looks like, and discussed that we farm sheep and cows in hill country.”
Following discussions have included mating of cows, calf-marking, docking, tractors, feeding out, fencing, horses, sheep and shearing.
“Their interest in farming is actually pretty good, and we do our best to try and throw challenging questions their way, too. It’s all basic maths we use every day as farmers, but for the kids to engage and work it all out is quite cool.”
Teacher Barb Curran said Heather and Mike are warm, fun and outgoing.
“The kids respond really well to them. I thought it was great for my students to see a woman farmer.”
Sessions are held fortnightly and last for up to 30 minutes. As Mike and Heather’s farming calendar is varied, the students see and learn different aspects of farming.
“We have really enjoyed being paired with Barb’s class,” said Heather. “We love keeping the sessions interactive, and always ask the class what they have been up to and working on at school with sports, concerts, extra-curricular and camps. They are awesome and outgoing.”
Activities that happen on the farm outside of the regular session time are videoed or photographed, then shared with the class.
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Last year, 1,253 students took part in the Farmer Time for Schools programme nationwide, with 57 farmerteacher pairings bringing farming and food production to life in the classroom. The programme covers a wide range of curriculum areas and farm types.
Throughout the year, students explore key farming topics, including sustainability, animal care, soil health, technology and the role of the climate in food production. A recent survey of participants reinforced the programme’s impact with teachers and farmers saying they would recommend it to others.
Farmer Time for Schools’ national coordinator Marie Burke said the programme continues to have a
meaningful impact on students, teachers and farmers alike.
“This initiative has proven its value, time and time again, by providing invaluable learning experiences for young Kiwis. We see students develop a real connection with the land and their food, while farmers gain a sense of pride in sharing their knowledge.”
Heather said it’s a great initiative to connect with a younger generation of society. “We enjoy communicating with children and seeing how they enjoy hearing about what we do. You never know who might get inspiration from us to join the sheep and beef sector.”
Primary producers and teachers interested in becoming involved can visit farmertime.co.nz.
Heather often videos or photographs farm activities to share with the class
Heather and her father Mike farm three properties, totalling 1,100ha
Innovations light up National Fieldays
by Andy Bryenton
The judges who hosted the 2025 National Fieldays Innovation Awards had a packed field of 63 finalists to consider as they went into their deliberations in mid-June, picking the best of the crop for this prestigious accolade.
Eighteen judges had narrowed the contenders down to five finalists in each of four categories as the nation’s biggest agricultural event reached its peak, but only three could be crowned as the best of the best.
“It is always exciting to see who has taken out these awards; it takes commitment and perseverance for innovators to put themselves out there to be critiqued,” said Steve Chappell programme manager of the New Zealand National Fieldays Society. “This year, we have seen entries that combine impact, innovation and industry leadership; there are some true standouts.”
Television personality, comedian and official Fieldays’ MC Te Radar announced the winners of the prototype, early-stage, young innovator and growth and scale categories live before an engaged crowd.
The prototype award went to Ruminant Biotech, a company that has developed a new slow-release bolus called Emitless,
which delivers a more than 75 per cent methane output reduction in cattle, lasting 100 days from a single treatment.
“This year’s winner has not only demonstrated strong underpinning science and a thorough product development process but also a solid understanding of the market and regulatory environment that their product will be entering,” said judge Peter Dowd. “Their IP is well considered, and effective implementation of their solution will have a drastic impact on New Zealand’s emissions profile”.
Alps2Ocean Food Tapui won the early-stage award, with its product Mīti, designed to process excess dairy calves into a world-first, shelf-stable protein snack.
“By addressing a long-standing social licence challenge, they’re helping reshape the wellbeing narrative around calf management in New Zealand,” said judge Shane Dooley.
CropX took out the growth and scale award, with the expansion of the CropX platform and the development and incorporation of the Evato1 evapotrans-
piration sensor. With more data available to farmers through this system, the judges praised CropX for facilitating smarter, more efficient practices.
Students from St Paul’s Collegiate School’s KiwiPrune team won the Fieldays Young Innovator Award for their idea to simplify the labour-intensive task of removing plastic clips used to secure kiwifruit vines. A device they developed to remove the clips and improve productivity was a hit with the judges.
“The judges saw significant potential for use in kiwifruit orchards both in NZ and overseas, as well as in other horticulture and viticulture applications,” said judge Jenny Cameron.
Making it easier to manage kiwifruit vines was the spark of inspiration behind award-winning idea KiwiPrune, developed by students of St Paul’s Collegiate School in Hamilton
Taranaki Tux Yarding Challenge returns
Taranaki Centre Sheep Dog Trials held its first Tux Yarding Challenge in the TSB Indoor Arena in Hāwera this month.
The three-day event, led by Taranaki Centre president Ken Lobb and a team of Taranaki triallists, was well supported with 218 entries. It was the first of seven Tux Yarding Challenges to be held in the North Island, leading up to the Tux New Zealand Yarding Challenge finals that will be held at Aratiatia Station, Taupō in January 2026.
Although a Tux trial used to be held in Taranaki many years ago, it wound up and was taken over by an indoor event that ran for 15 years.
This year’s first Tux Yarding Challenge on the calendar, drew dog triallists and their dogs from all over the North Island to compete. Most of the top Tux yarding dogs in the country, past and present championship holders, as well as many newcomers to the sport of all ages, took part.
“Despite being one of the smallest centres in the country, all members of Taranaki clubs had an input in helping get the trial off to a good start,” said Wanganui Centre publicity officer Brenda O’Leary.
This involved setting up the Tux course in the stadium, liberating over the three days, and pitching in where needed. Brewer Farms supplied the sheep for the event.
The competition began on Friday, July 11, and continued through to the final run-off on Sunday, July 13.
Former New Zealand title holders, Bob Bruce and Ruby, won the coveted Bob Harvey Memorial Trophy and top prize. Robyn Stephens from the King Country took second place with Tia. This combination were the top qualifiers on the Saturday’s competition with a 98.5 points run. Waikato Centre’s Laura Geering and Missy placed third. These three competitors will go forward to the Tux New Zealand Yarding Challenge.
Taranaki Centre president Ken Lobb with his dog, Lizzie, made the top five on the first day of competition. Unfortunately, this duo drew rogue sheep and they were unable to complete.
Maiden competitor, King Country’s Nick Anselmi with Gus, won that section with 95.5 points. Ruby Bailey from the Wanganui Centre was second with Sass, scoring 91.5 points. Steve Mackie, also from the King Country, placed third with Shadow on 49.5 points. Nick and Gus will go through to the Tux New Zealand Yarding Challenge in January to compete for the top maiden title.
Brenda O’Leary from Wanganui judged the event — her fourth Tux Yarding Challenge.
Should I take coenzyme Q10? (Part two)
by John Arts, Abundant Health Ltd
We usually make all the coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) we need. Some, however, should take extra as a supplement.
CoQ10 is mostly made in your liver from the same enzymes that make cholesterol. This is why drugs that reduce cholesterol can significantly reduce CoQ10 and can cause side effects that are so common that they are now diagnosable diseases. Many pharmacists recommend CoQ10 to people collecting statin prescriptions.
The main role of CoQ10 is to move hydrogen electrons within your cell mitochondria to produce energy. Inadequate CoQ10 levels reduce cell energy usually felt as tiredness and muscle weakness.
I have a client who had experienced significant muscle pain while on statins. After a few months taking a quality CoQ10 the pain had gone and they can now tolerate the medication without side effects. I generally find it takes one to two months to improve muscle function and energy.
Muscle issues from statin use is one of the most common reasons for muscle and tendon pain and weakness. I spoke to
someone yesterday whose muscles had started to break down while on statins. It is a shame that many suffer needlessly, as in most cases, it is quickly resolved with a high-quality CoQ10 without having to stop the medication. I recommend CoQ10 for those with health issues known to reduce energy especially those with autoimmune or neurodegenerative problems. While CoQ10 is not a cure, it can help to lift general energy and wellbeing.
I will add a quality, naturally-fermented, patented CoQ10 or my mitochondrial formula for those needing extra CoQ10, plus a lift in energy. This combines CoQ10 with a B vitamin complex plus other energy co-factors. Most people feel a real difference within one to two months.
John Arts (Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on 0800 423 559 or email john@abundant.co.nz. Join his newsletter at abundant.co.nz.
by Andy Bryenton
Wash down with the specialists
Central Property Wash is a specialist when it comes to making exteriors look superior, whether it’s for your home or business.
Company owner Nick Green has one and a half decades of experience tackling jobs big and small across the region, heading up the team who proudly, and justifiably, call themselves the lower North Island’s leading exterior cleaning company.
That means everything from bricks and concrete to glass and steel, commercial offices and hard-working factories to residential homes. If it needs a spruce up, Central Property Wash has the tools, the team and the talent to get it done right, first time.
Based in Palmerston North, Nick’s team helps clean up throughout Manawatū, Whanganui, Rangītikei and the Kāpiti Coast. The success of the business comes down to their technique and technology, but it also comes down to an old-fashioned approach
to seeing their customers right. That means deploying custom-built, industrial-grade hot and cold water washing systems spanning everything from gentle maintenance to heavyduty cleaning.
“We pride ourselves on our professionalism and customer service. No job is finished until you are completely satisfied,” says Nick.
An extensive list of satisfied clients can attest to the fact that he means what he says, and that the care and attention of Central Property Wash can make a huge difference to the outward appearance of any building. That could mean making your home look its best, either because it’s time to sell or to maintain its charm, character and materials.
It could also mean presenting the very best face to your own customers, who will
form a great first impression when they see a building that’s sparkling fresh and clean. In a big way, having a well-presented workplace does wonders for team morale, as well.
Whether you’re leasing or you own your own building, washing away mould, grime, dirt and cobwebs is about more than that great impression, too. Washing and protecting go hand in hand, and no job is too big, as the Central Property Wash team has the know-how and training to reach even the tallest heights. Add to this the accreditation for traffic control, and the job’s in safe hands.
As a crowning achievement, Nick and the team can also treat roofs for moss, mould and lichen, following up a thorough wash with a procedure that prevents the nasty stuff from coming back.
With the technology to clean from the ground to the rooftops, windows included, this innovative local company is ready to put their experience at your command.
Give them a call today to see what a difference Central Property Wash can make for you — you’ll love the results.
Rewards for environmental protection
by Andy Bryenton
An ambitious plan to reward landowners who protect biodiversity voluntarily has been tabled by the coalition government.
Associate Environment and Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard announced moves to start a pilot scheme for the trading of voluntary nature credits at National Fieldays, and has since elaborated on the idea in a speech to the New Zealand Farm Trust’s alumni.
Core to the concept is that landowners and conservation groups will be able to gain credits, similar in nature to those used to denote sequestered CO², for areas of wilderness, bush and wetlands in their care. It’s a combination of an incentive to protect significant areas of natural importance, with fiscal pragmatism.
An example is Te Toa Whenua Northland, led by Reconnecting Northland. This group is transitioning around 100ha from exotic forestry to native, including pest control on iwi-owned land. Under the new scheme’s pilot programme, this will earn tradeable credits. Proponents of the plan see this as a much better way to engage in the carbon trade than planting pines on productive farmland, but it’s also voluntary, unlike the now-scrapped plan of mapping and enforcing Significant Natural Areas (SNAs) on private land.
This contentious policy was quickly done away with by the coalition government, and councils no longer have to identify and map SNAs, after the suspension of parts of the National Policy Statement on Indigenous Biodiversity.
“Farmers and other private landowners are doing their part to protect native biodiversity and want to do more. Supporting voluntary nature credit markets is a chance for the government to show them the carrot, not just the stick,” said Mr Hoggard.
In 2024 New Zealand investors spent more than $20 million on voluntary nature and carbon credits. However, the bulk of this investment went offshore, due to a lack of available Kiwi projects ready to be invested in.
Mr Hoggard opined that New Zealand exports rely on the nation’s clean green environmental image, with 80 per cent of exports, worth $59.6 billion, headed to markets where environmental, social and governance reporting is required.
While the pilot is seen as a positive step by many, opponents note that the idea of a credit system still remains debatable, in that companies are offsetting pollution rather than curtailing it. Nevertheless, for farmers who not long ago were concerned that areas of their privately-owned land could be locked down by SNA rulings, Mr Hoggard’s announcement is a breath of fresh air.
The decision to push ahead with a tradeable scheme for voluntary protection of privately-owned areas of land comes following government plans to grant an extra $4.5 million to the QEII
Trust. The trust has supported voluntary conservation efforts by landowners since its inception in 1977.
“Many of our most at-risk plants and animals are found on private land,” said
Conservation Minister Tama
provide a significant contribution to conservation efforts through additional planting, pest control and fencing work.”
Andrew Hoggard is calling a new scheme for voluntary biodiversity protection “the carrot, not just the stick”
Potaka. “Landowners
by Denise Gunn
Serving the community
The first elected chairman of directors for the Levin Co-operative Dairy Company, Ernest Samuel Lancaster, had a long association with Levin.
In 1889, Ernest bought a block of land on Gladstone Road (formerly Koputaroa Road), near Queen Street East. Following his marriage to Kate Brunger, the couple settled on the property.
Ernest cleared the land of heavy bush and developed his farm. In addition to a flock of sheep, Ernest milked a herd of Jersey cows. He was the second dairy farmer recorded in the area.
Among the Lancaster’s herd, was a two-year-old Jersey heifer bred by Ernest. This heifer, named Hillcrest Hope, produced more than 600lbs of butter fat.
In the early 1890s, farmers delivered their fresh milk to around 20 creameries across the district. With butter and cheese growing in value as export products, farmers decided to set up a cooperative dairy company.
In 1899, the Levin Co-operative Dairy Company was established, of which Ernest was a founding member and shareholder. He was also elected as the first chairman of directors.
A dairy factory was built in Queen Street and in the first 10 months of production, 52.5 tons of Lake Brand butter was dispatched. By 1903, the
company was manufacturing more than 200 tons of butter a year.
Ernest continued as chairman until 1902 when he sold his farm and moved into Levin. His interest in breeding quality Jersey cows continued and his stock were well sought after. He attended A&P shows around the lower North Island on a regular basis, winning awards for his livestock.
A love of the outdoors saw Ernest explore the Tararua Ranges, climbing Mount Dundas with George France in 1901. Seven years later, with Leslie Adkin and George, the trio crossed the ranges from Levin to Masterton via Mount Dundas and the Waingawa River gorge.
Leslie and Ernest were founding members of the Levin-Waiopehu Tramping Club, formed in 1927. Ernest served as the club’s president for two years, and was involved with other club members in building the Waiopehu Hut, which was officially opened in 1928. He also took part in numerous search and rescue operations.
Ernest achieved further recognition as a district councillor, a Justice of the Peace, and held several roles on various committees until he passed away in 1940.
PACIFIC MULCHING
Ernest Samuel Lancaster during the first crossing of the Tararua Range from Levin to Eketahuna Photo credit: From the album Across the Tararuas, 1927, Levin, by Leslie Adkin, Te Papa (0.045657)
by Amy Fifita
Events to enjoy locally
Next month holds several events in the Horowhenua town of Levin, from musical gigs and stage plays to market days.
Explore the talents and people of Levin at the various events running throughout the town. The Levin Monthly Indoor Market is on Saturday, August 2, from 8.30am to 12.30pm at the Levin Uniting, 87 Oxford Street. Peruse pre-loved items and buy a bargain, or purchase and taste the delightful treats on offer on the first Saturday of every month.
Friday, August 1, is the debut of April Phillip’s STiFF at Levin Little Theatre, 75 Weraroa Road. The play for mature audiences follows the story of April Delight, who inherits a funeral parlour when her father dies, with a requirement that she runs it for five years.
While running a funeral parlour isn’t her forte, Angel decides to fall back on her prostitution expertise and uses her father’s business as a front. Enter a disgruntled employee with his eyes on the business, and you have a comedic play for mature audiences.
Running from 7.30pm to 10pm on Friday, August 1 and 8 and Saturday, August 2 and 9, and on Sunday August 5,
from 2pm to 4.30pm, tickets are available from eventfinda.co.nz.
Tune your ears to country, blues and folk music with various events set to happen in Levin in the next few months. People can pick their favourite genre on Saturday, August 16, with two gigs on the same night.
Zephyr Wills and the Hurricane Blues will take the stage at the Firebird Cafe, 58 Oxford Street, from 7.30pm–10.30pm. Featuring a diverse range of folk and blues, the gig aims to showcase original and traditional tunes for the audience to enjoy. Davey Griffiths and Celine Filbee are supporting the act, and will add their style of blues and grooves to the mix.
Also on August 16, Sisters in Country are playing at the Levin RSA, 32 Bristol Street, from 7.30pm–10pm. Consisting of Jodi Vaughan and Aly Cook, they will be accompanied by special guest Rosemarie Hack.
Wanting to sell your lifestyle or rural property?
Raewyn is a very successful rural/lifestyle agent. Having lived here all her life, Raewyn is Horowhenua through and through and brings a wealth of experience and knowledge that can only be gained from a lifetime of living and working in the rural sector.
The real estate market is changing almost daily at the moment, so if you would like to know what this means for your property or if you are looking for your next dream property, talk to Raewyn Moody.
Raewyn Moody
Rural/Lifestyle Sales Consultant
M 027 226 6036 P 06 366 0880 E raewyn.moody@pb.co.nz
New Zealand-based April Phillips’ STiFF will be performed at the Levin Little Theatre in August
by Andy Bryenton
Three famous writers from Levin
Levin’s famous sons and daughters include titans of sports and politics, but among their number are three very different authors known for entirely separate genres.
Perhaps the most famous writer to hail from Levin is Joy Cowley, a member of the Order of New Zealand, who has penned successful novels for adults and youngsters alike, as well as a beloved collection of picture books, which feature in many Kiwi childhood memories.
Her novel, Nest in a Falling Tree, was adapted for film by Roald Dahl in 1971, and her novel for younger readers, The Silent One, has also been brought to the screen. Her famous picture books include Snake and Lizard, the Duck in the Gun, Salmagundi, The Terrible Taniwha of Timberditch and many, many more. Joy Cowley has written more than 500 learnto-read books for young students, and is a passionate advocate for literacy.
The Levin-born author has won numerous international awards for promoting reading for young and old, and
is currently one of only 20 living national treasures vested with an Arts Foundation of New Zealand Icon Award.
In a completely different field of writing, fellow Levin author Nicky Hagar has won fame and some notoriety as an investigative journalist unafraid to rock the establishment with incisive volumes, such as The Hollow Men, Dirty Politics and Other People’s Wars.
His first volume, Secret Power, uncovered the techniques and targets of the ultra-secretive Government Communications Security Bureau, and the workings of the so-called Five Eyes spy partnership between the US, Canada, the UK, Australia and New Zealand. His later works turned the spotlight on the cover-ups, lies, and propaganda used as weapons by big business to influence environmental laws, whole elections and
the toxic world of online political influencers. He was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2023.
Television presenter Suzy Clarkson (formerly Aiken) was the face of Prime News for several years, and a fixture on magazine and game show programmes since the late 1980s. She’s one of a very small number of overseas entertainers to win a US Emmy Award for her work. However, the popular broadcaster is also famous for her focus on fitness, and has published two successful books on health and fitness, Healthy Body Healthy Mind, and Fit For Birth and Beyond.
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Levin has many claims to fame, but a trio of famous authors have made their mark on the national page, having been born in the small rural centre
Levin Domain opens to public from dawn to dusk
u byline
With the gates to the Levin Domain opening to the public during daylight hours, the Horowhenua District Council is
community uses this space.
Horowhenua District mayor Bernie Wanden said the opening of the domain ties into the work being done to transform the Levin town centre.
“The domain is a fantastic piece of green space in a great location, right in the middle of town. Allowing our community to make the most of this space aligns with the Levin town centre transformation vision, to create an attractive and vibrant town centre environment.”
Located on the corner of Bath and Salisbury Streets, Weraroa Road and Queen Street West, the Levin Domain has a long sporting history.
Since 1908, rugby union has been played at the domain, and it is currently the home ground of the Horowhenua-Kāpiti Rugby Football Union. The Hurricanes and Crusaders have graced its field, as well as the Chiefs Manawa and Hurricanes Poua.
It’s also been a popular venue for cricket, starting when Horowhenua played southern Hawke’s Bay in the 1966 Hawke Cup Challenge. In the 1980s and 1990s, List A matches were held on the
domain, along with women’s one day internationals.
The Levin tennis and squash clubs call the domain home too, and the Laurie Roberts Velodrome is also located there.
Reopening the domain to the public is an invitation to imagine the space in a new light, as a vibrant hub for the community to enjoy now and in the future. Small pockets of parkland surrounding the centre of the domain are ideal picnic areas.
“We must extend our thanks to the sports clubs and groups based at the domain, who are welcoming the community into this space. Let’s reward that trust by making sure we treat the domain with the respect it deserves,” said Mayor Wanden.
The Horowhenua District Council welcomes feedback on how the public views the domain best being used. Email levintowncentre@horowhenua.govt.nz.
The Levin Domain is now open to the public during daylight hours, seven days a week
by Andy Bryenton
Yellow blooms in support of NZCS
Daffodil Day is coming again in August, with support for the hard work of the Cancer Society at the forefront of volunteers’ minds as they hit the streets, turning towns around New Zealand yellow.
By the time you receive your next edition of the Manawatu Farming Lifestyles, it may already be time to paint the town yellow for the cause, so to boost involvement and visibility, we’ve decided to fly the flag a little early.
There are many reasons why Daffodil Day is one of the most supported and respected charity appeals on the Kiwi calendar. Nearly everyone in the nation has a friend, relative or colleague who has battled cancer. Statistically, 25,000 New Zealanders will receive that diagnosis each year. With medical science improving every day, thanks to funding for research, the chances of making a full recovery are getting better all the time.
Early detection, good care and solid support are the keys to success. To aid in this, the NZCS puts in more than one million kilometres of drive time to get patients to their medical appointments each year. It provides 50,000 nights of free accommodation to bring people closer to specialist medical services. Add in their work promoting early detection and educating people on cancer risks, advocating for better
healthcare and operating a full-time telephone service for information. It’s easy to see why the people behind the daffodil appeal are so wellrespected. A further $5.2 million was granted to those researching lifesaving anti-cancer treatments last year, thanks to the generosity of average Kiwis.
The NZCS works closely with hospitals, doctors and other care service providers, and has the respect of all within the medical profession. Those who work for Kaipara’s hospice are just some of those who benefit from this collaboration.
“They are simply wonderful,” says Hospice Kaipara spokesperson Annette Olsen. “Working to support families and patients, they are a dedicated team and very supportive. With us, with the hospital and in the wider community, they are doing a great job.”
The daffodil was chosen as the emblem for its annual appeal, symbolising springtime, new life and hope. It’s been adopted by similar charitable
organisations worldwide, becoming the international symbol of the fight for a cure and volunteers’ excellent work helping patients’ families.
FRIDAY 29TH AUGUST 2025 “Proud to stand beside our community and support Daffodil Day”
Please give generously when you see the charity collectors out and about next month, or make a donation online via daffodilday.org.nz any time of the year.
your help,
432 6104
356 1814
Boyd: 027 323 2693
A main street is often the scene of a big Daffodil Day bake sale and barbecue — a scene replicated across many rural towns
by Andy Bryenton
Giant robots not just for anime
John Deere has unleashed one of the most powerful, and biggest, tracked tractors ever to till the soil, with the debut of the 9RX, and a surprising reveal at the CES cereal crop expo in the US; this monster of the fields can come as an advanced, driverless robot.
Everything about the 9RX is defined by huge numbers, including its massive four-tracked silhouette, reminiscent of the desert-crawling harvesters of Frank Herbert’s Dune novels.
The big JD18, 18-litre diesel under the hood can deliver a maximum of 913 horsepower, but it also delivers this titanic amount of force, while achieving emissions standard compliance without any fuel fluids or additives.
Now, for the numbers.
Start with hydraulic flow of up to 635 litres a minute, tracks 91 centimetres wide for floatation over soil, and 6.8 square metres of glass in the immense cab. The RX9 weighs 33 tonnes, stands an imposing 3.7 metres tall, and measures 8.8 metres in length, track-to-track.
autonomous
on
All that power is designed to operate the biggest and most demanding of implements for massive fields and acres of crops. However, there’s finesse behind
the brute force of the RX9, with more advanced computing technology on board than ever before in a tractor of this size. Some of this is the wizardry allowing this green giant to go fully autonomous.
“Our agriculture, construction, and commercial landscaping customers all have work that must get done at certain
in unique and complex environments. This will not only benefit our customers, but all of us who rely on them to provide the food, fuel, fibre, infrastructure and landscaping care that we depend on every day.”
By adding 16 cameras and John Deere’s second-gen autonomy kit, the 9RX gains a 360-degree cybernetic view of its surroundings, with advanced depth perception to enable it to move with swift surety. Deere engineers say this gives farmers the option of stepping away from the RX9’s spacious cab and taking care of other things, while it deals with vast swathes of land all on its own.
scale times of the day and year, yet there is not enough available and skilled labour to do the work,” says John Deere chief technology officer Jahmy Hindman.
“Autonomy can help address this challenge. That’s why we’re extending our technology stack to enable more machines to operate safely and autonomously
While the RX9 might be too big for most Kiwi farms, made as it is for the US plains, it’s a halo product displaying the peak of engineering and automation as a snapshot in time. Lessons learned making this beast will soon be coming to a field near you.
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John Deere’s huge new RX9 is not just an exercise in superlatives; it’s an
robot tractor
a whole new
by Andy Bryenton
Best bang for your renovation bucks
If you’re renovating this winter to sell in spring, take a hint from a recent US survey of real estate agents as to which parts of a property really swing the decision to invest and settle down.
Better bathrooms
These areas are a focus for intense scrutiny during open homes and can be a dealbreaker for many buyers. Functional, spacious and easy to clean are the keywords real estate professionals hear a lot; and the number of bathrooms buyers desire is rising, too. For many, having experienced the joys of his and hers bathrooms means never going back. En suites are also very much in vogue, especially in family homes where the main bathroom area is likely to see serious use by the youngsters.
Comprehensive kitchens
Trends come and go when it comes to kitchen design and appliances, but functionality is king in this part of the home. Storage scores more points than people would imagine, and so does the ability to change out appliances. Nothing’s worse than having a gap too small for your new oven or fridge. Kitchens and bathrooms both also benefit hugely from fresh flooring that’s waterproof and easy to clean, and extractors that get rid of steam silently.
Hit the decks
Outdoor entertainment is a big part of summer, and a lot of home buyers don’t just think inside of the box when it comes to imagining their dream home. Resurfacing the decks is an inexpensive way to make a good first impression, and give a clear indication that attention has gone into maintaining your property. Increasingly, deck space out of line of sight to neighbours is sought for spa pools and stand-alone saunas.
Energy efficiency
It’s a new contender in the list of game-changing factors that really motivate home buyers, but energysmart ideas are now right up there with space, light and location. Homes with solar hot water heating, solar panels for power, battery banks and heat pump systems are in demand. So, too, are homes with charging points for electric vehicles. If you’re renovating with an eye to potential medium-term sale, look at clever energy options that could deliver more than what they cost when it’s time to sell.
Garage days revisited
There’s a tongue-in-cheek saying that ‘ladies buy a home, blokes buy a garage’. It’s actually truer than some might believe, and it’s not just the lads who want ample shed space. Anyone
and everyone has hobbies, and while the obvious shed-fillers like hot-rodding, motorcycling, boating and carpentry are all popular, gardening, model-making, sewing and home brewing all need shed space, too.
What really makes a home stand out on sale?
The answers may inform you on where to concentrate your renovation dollars
Architecture & Construction
Rural Building/sheds & shelters
ADVERTORIAL
BUILTsmart meets growing need for quality homes
by Denise Gunn
Since opening a BUILTsmart branch on the outskirts of Feilding last year, the transportable
lower North Island, producing innovative and sustainable housing solutions.
Established by Philip Leather in 1982, BUILTsmart operates as a New Zealand family-owned business. Philip has grown the business from its Waikato base and continues to be heavily involved in day-today operations. With a foundation of family values, these principles continue to be upheld with multiple family members involved in running the business.
BUILTsmart’s new cutting-edge factory located at 143 Turners Road on Feilding’s western fringe is the third facility to open, with others in Huntly and Gisborne. Each facility is specifically designed to create an efficient work environment to produce quality homes under cover within 8 to 10 weeks.
BUILTsmart enjoys helping people into affordable houses. A BUILTsmart home incorporates environmental sustainability through energyefficient features and recycled materials wherever possible, blending style and functionality.
A choice of six transportable home floor plans have been designed with specifications aimed to provide clients with the most costeffective building options available. The team has successfully completed multiple development projects for government agencies, to smaller dwellings transported to beach or farm sites.
are in good hands. The BUILTsmart team in Feilding aims to continue providing wellbuilt homes that stand the test of time in the region, while offering employment to local trades.
BUILTsmart’s Feilding site is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm, or Saturdays by appointment. Phone Breadon at 021 353 379 to schedule viewings.
Visit builtsmart.co.nz for further information.
Thirty-four construction bays on-site in Feilding will increase the business’s overall capacity to build 500 new homes and classrooms annually. Advanced modular construction techniques and eco-friendly materials are utilised in each new build.
No matter what your building needs are: a first home, additional dwelling on
the farm, downsizing or a bach for the beach, commitment and loyalty to clients is part of the journey through any building project. The BUILTsmart team has pursued the same successful goal since the business began, offering excellent customer service, professional workmanship, commitment to quality, and completion of contracts on time and within budgets. Meeting a growing demand for housing solutions,
LEADERS IN QUALITY PAINT FINISHES
With BUILTsmart handling the project from start to finish, providing value for money, colour selection, site specific architect drawings, consents, on-site works to handover, clients can rest assured they
BUILTsmart’s branch, on the outskirts of Feilding, has increased the business’s overall capacity to produce innovative and sustainable housing solutions
Rural Building/sheds & shelters
Insulation rules made more efficient
by Andy Bryenton
The government is making it less expensive to build houses by changing up the
healthy homes.
“I’ve heard clearly from the industry that the current one-size-fits-all approach to insulation requirements is needlessly driving up costs,” said Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk, on the announcement of a raft of new rule changes.
“The most prescriptive compliance pathway currently available for insulation, known as the Schedule Method, doesn’t allow for design trade-offs that can affect a home’s energy efficiency, like adjusting window size.
“This has led to designers and homeowners having to over-insulate in certain areas to achieve Building Code compliance, offering little extra energy efficiency benefit at a significant cost.”
It was often a case of the rules being an impediment to progress, and still not delivering good outcomes. With smarter tools now available to calculate thermal retention, energy efficiency and overall insulation optimisation, builders should not need to apply the blunt tool of the old rules. The upshot is a saving of an average $15,000 on every new home;
not an inconsiderable sum. Also on the horizon is a possible change to the rules in Northland, which has a more subtropical climate than other more southerly parts of the nation.
The changes represent a middleground approach to insulation law, with the plan laid out by Mr Penk, in early July, earning praise from builders and healthy housing advocates.
That’s because the rhetoric from the coalition government, in 2024, was leaning towards the scrapping of insulation standards. At the time, it’s reported spokespeople for the building industry made claims that the cost of a home was being driven up by more than $50,000 by the Healthy Homes’ standards. However, investigation by Mr Penk’s ministry found these claims were contradicted by independent advice.
“I’m really proud to say that Certified Builders, Construction Industry Council, ADNZ (Architectural Designers New Zealand), BRANZ (Building Research Association of New Zealand) and others stepped in and said, no, you should not
be taking out insulation, and it’s bad design that is to blame, not insulation, for overheating,” said Green Housing Council head Andrew Eagles.
The government listened, which is a good thing from the perspective of another department; that of health. It’s estimated that warmer, drier homes
delivered by logical insulation and heating rules have already resulted in less stress on busy doctors and hospitals.
The new rules are likely to be published in their final form in November, meaning that building will be a cheaper and more flexible process in the new year.
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
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Rules around insulation, which builders described as a ‘blunt instrument’ and ‘unfit for purpose’ have been changed from a one-size-fits-nobody approach to a more tailored system
Solar power unleashed for small users
by Andy Bryenton
The government has unlocked new possibilities for homes with solar panels, expanding the permitted voltage range for electricity networks so more excess power can be sold back into the grid.
It’s part of a sweeping set of changes involving solar photovoltaic technology. Building and energy ministers Simon Watts and Chris Penk have confirmed that changes are being made to ensure that a building consent is not needed to install solar panels on existing buildings, slashing through some of the red tape, which has made many homeowners question whether the move to solar is affordable.
There’s also the requirement from Wellington that local councils must process the resource consents of homes with planned solar arrays within 10 days, down from the previously acceptable 20. This means a faster, smoother process for buildings which will harvest the sun’s rays for electricity. It also represents about $400 in savings on paperwork alone.
“New Zealand’s residential uptake of rooftop solar is lower than many other countries. This government wants to change that, so more Kiwis can generate, store and send their own electricity back
to the market. This will allow them to save on their power bills and contribute to a more secure electricity system,” Mr Watts says.
“Rooftop solar will play a crucial role in supporting energy security and reducing emissions. However, our networks need to be able to better support the growing flow of electricity from consumers, while also dealing with growing demand for more electric vehicle charging.
The government says that modelling it’s undertaken shows that expanding the voltage range of the network to plus or minus 10 per cent could push solar investment by home and business owners up, and pump an additional 507 gigawatthours into the grid from excess small solar array capacity. It’s the kind of voltage boost the nation needs.
“We need the right incentives in place to make rooftop solar a realistic option for Kiwis,” says Mr Penk.
“The government is focussed on getting people into safe, affordable homes faster, and we want those homes
With the energy system preparing for a surge in residential solar, the consenting process needs to play its part to support the transition.”
“Delivering the best outcomes for New Zealanders is incredibly important to minister Penk and me,” says Mr Watts. “Expanding the voltage range could help avoid hundreds of millions of dollars in infrastructure upgrade costs to accommodate rooftop solar and EV charging being passed on to Kiwi households.”
The ability to sell back excess solar energy into the national grid could be the deciding factor for thousands of Kiwis considering a home or farm solar installation to be sustainable and future-ready.
