Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay says legislation to protect productive farmland by limiting farm-to-forest conversions is now in place.
The Climate Change Response (Emissions Trading Scheme — Forestry Conversion) Amendment Act came into effect on October 31. McLay said forest owners will notice these changes in the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) system from this month.
“Through this act, the government delivered on protecting food production, supporting rural communities, and ensuring foresters can continue to invest with confidence,” Mr McClay said.
The legislation restricts exotic forests from entering the ETS on Land Use Capability (LUC) class 1–6 land — New Zealand’s most productive soils — with certain exceptions, including for Māori-owned land and erosion-prone areas.
Farmers will retain flexibility to plant some land should they choose.
Transitional exemptions from the restrictions are available for those who can demonstrate both a clear interest in the land and a qualifying forestry investment made between January 1 2021 and December 4 2024.
“Farming and forestry are both important to our regional economies
and communities and this Government is supporting both sectors to create jobs and grow exports,” McClay said.
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has worked to keep the sector informed, including running webinars to explain the new restrictions. Its website has been updated to include the changes and guidance documents.
Dedicated MPI staff will continue to provide specific support.
More information can be found on the MPI website — keyword search ‘forestry’.
About Us
Todd McClay, Agriculture and Forestry Minister
Kiwis lead chorus for methane truth
by Andy Bryenton
Thirty organisations across 14 nations have joined together in an unprecedented appeal to governmental climate policymakers, demanding that the truth about methane emissions is recognised.
The core of their claim: methane is different from long-lived greenhouse gases, and science confirms this difference. That fundamental difference must be recognised in reporting metrics. Some advocates for change on this topic opine that not to do so is disingenuous and potentially economically dangerous.
Joining in the call to recognise the true role of the methane cycle and the impact of the one-size-fits-all GWP100 recording metric is Beef + Lamb New Zealand, building on its advocacy for a split-gas emissions target in New Zealand. That mission was a success, as New Zealand uses a split-gas model that recognises the difference between methane and other greenhouse gases.
‘The science is clear: emissions of longlived gases must reach net zero to prevent further warming. In contrast, emissions of short-lived gases like biogenic methane only need to decline gradually to have the same effect,’ says a joint statement signed by B+LNZ and 29 other groups from more than a dozen nations.
‘This fundamental difference needs to be recognised in climate policy, and adopting a split-gas approach is the most effective way to do so.’
“B+LNZ has taken the lead to build the international consensus on the need to
follow a split-gas approach when reporting greenhouse gases from agriculture,” says B+LNZ chair Kate Acland.
“This is the culmination of more than four years of effort in building these global conversations, so we’re delighted to achieve this level of support for the joint statement.
“The importance of a united position from agricultural producing nations on climate change metrics and emissions targets was a major subject of conversation during my visit to Ireland, the UK and the US in May. Since then, B+LNZ has been working hard behind the scenes to get this across the line.
“New Zealand already has splitgas domestic targets, and B+LNZ has long advocated for this science-based approach to be replicated internationally. This would make it clear where emission reductions are expected, and, in the case of methane, in what sector.”
The international joint statement was signed by agricultural organisations from Argentina, Australia, Cambodia, Canada,
Colombia, Georgia, India, Ireland, Kenya, New Zealand, South Africa, the United Kingdom, the United States and Uruguay. It calls on parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change to use a split-gas approach in their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.
Kate Acland, Beef + Lamb New Zealand chair
Drawn back to dairying
by Denise Gunn
Horowhenua dairy farm manager Kris Wilson developed a foundational passion for dairying while casual milking as a teenager.
This led to a permanent farm assistant position on the Barber family’s Foxton farm, where he worked for four years.
“It was such a big farm and there was no area to progress, so I went to south Waikato to work for Scott Bradley,” said Kris. “I worked there as 2IC for six seasons, milking 1,200 cows in a conventional system, and then it went to 800 cows, organic.”
A discussion over the phone with Pāmu business manager Joel Peterson, saw
Kris return to the Horowhenua, to work on one of the state-owned enterprise’s Moutoa dairy farms, Ruapehu. Pāmu, which means ‘to farm’ in te reo Māori, is the brand name for Landcorp Farming Limited. The lure of the sea was also reeling Kris in, so he took a two-year gap from dairying to move to Nelson to work as a commercial fisherman.
“It was probably the hardest job I’ve ever done, but at the same time it’s pretty rewarding. It’s physically demanding — if you can handle it.”
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Three years ago, Kris returned to Pāmu’s 264ha Ruapehu farm at Moutoa, starting as 3IC and working his way back up to a management role. He is now manager of the 194ha Egmont dairy unit, with one season under his belt.
Kris found his time on the water as a commercial fisherman has helped him grow into a strong, hardworking individual.
“Farming isn’t just a job for me. It’s a career, and I love that every day is different. You have to think on your
feet, but also plan weeks, months and seasons ahead.”
He said there are always lots of challenges, and a broad set of skills are needed instead of being a master of one thing.
“At Pāmu, you aren’t just milking the cows. You are thinking about cropping strategies, budgets and stuff like that.
“There’s a lot of planning around cropping and grass species, and you can play with different grass species to learn more. I’m constantly learning.”
Horowhenua dairy farm manager Kris Wilson
Two herds of 250 cows are milked on the Egmont unit
Pāmu’s farms at Moutoa were fullycertified organic in October last year.
The Egmont unit’s 500 Friesian and KiwiCross herd is split into two smaller herds of 250 cows. Each herd has younger cows and higher performers. More than 130 heifers are reared each season, and all other stock are sold at sales or raised as beef cattle.
“We’ve gone away from bobbies,” said Kris. Around 1,200 white-faced calves, born on the Moutoa farms each year, are transported to Pāmu’s calf-rearing block in Cheltenham. A further 800 whitefaced or Angus calves are sent to another support block in Shannon.
Kris said calving time and spring are his favourite seasons on-farm, when it’s at its busiest.
“I thrive on chaos.”
Each year, staff put together a business plan and an annual budget to cover every category on-farm, work out how to make improvements, and track progress. Kris enjoys the goal-setting and challenges that come with that.
In an effort to encourage the next generations to consider the dairy industry as a career, Pāmu is now involved with school visits to the farms.
“We show that there is a career in farming, and that it’s not just about getting
up at 4am. We want to train new ones and get them involved in the dairy industry.”
Finding the right people for the job is one of the challenges that Kris faces.
“It’s not just a job. You have to have a passion for it. I enjoy training people and seeing the smile on their face when they get it. I also like watching people who I’ve worked under, move up to bigger and better roles.”
Herd health ranks highly, too.
“I like happy cows, and knowing I’m doing the right things with the animals.
Rachel is our mascot cow and she won’t go anywhere without a pat.” Kris and his fiancée Erica have four daughters and
one son. Their son has just turned 17 and is now working on a casual basis on the Egmont unit.
Kris’s two brothers, Damien and Toko, are also dairy farming.
“We all want to be the best, so we call each other to give advice.”
Earlier this year, Kris placed second in the dairy manager category of the Manawatū Dairy Industry Awards, and won two merit awards. His long-term plan is contract milking.
Kris
Herd health ranks highly
Kris and his 2IC Rocky Johnson
Wiltshires growing in demand
by Denise Gunn
Since starting her flock of Wiltshire sheep in 2011, Donna Marshall has expanded into Blackshires, selling rams mostly throughout the North Island.
Donna and her former husband
Steve bought their 10-acre block of land with the primary intention of providing a good lifestyle for their three young boys.
“I did some research, looking into things like lavender, and settled on sheep, which provide a source of meat to the family, as well as income that will allow them to pay for themselves,” said Donna.
“From there, I was looking at breeds of sheep and came across self-shedding
sheep, which were appealing due to their lower maintenance. Some weren’t favoured due to bad feet, and I settled on the Wiltshires as my choice.”
Donna’s flock began with seven in-lamb Wiltshire ewes, purchased from Morrison Farming in Marton. The focus for her small-scale breeding operation was good feet, 100% shedding, and good natures.
With no farming background, caring for sheep has been a real learning curve for Donna on her Longburn property.
“I was keen on the fact that I didn’t have to shear them. I’m left-handed, and have been told by a shearer that it’s impossible to teach someone who wants to do everything backwards. Also, they are a meat breed.”
In 2016, Donna came across John Middleton who was breeding Blackshires in the Manawatū. After using his Blackshire ram, Donna was able to buy it to use across her Wiltshire ewes.
“Since then, I have always bred the
Blackshires with the white Wiltshires to keep and promote the benefits of the Wiltshire breed, just with the black colour gene.
After a previous issue with facial eczema, and to understand any natural resistance, Donna undertook some Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) testing of her sheep in 2018. She then began buying Wiltshire rams with proven facial eczema resistance from Arvidson Wiltshires in Auckland.
Donna began breeding Wiltshires in 2011, then expanded into Blackshires too
In the pen waiting for scanning
More recently, Donna has bought rams from Bridget Sutherland in Taranaki.
“Bridget only has Arvidson ewes and rams.”
Donna’s previous property was near an area known locally as Hilltop. She uses that name to describe her line of Wiltshires and Blackshires. Most of her Blackshire rams are bought by lifestyle block owners in the North Island. So far, one ram has been sold to the South Island.
She said the rams she has sold to lifestyle block owners share her idea that if the wool isn’t being used, it doesn’t matter if the sheep are black or white.
“Why not go for something a little unique. I usually do one trip from Palmerston North to Auckland in January, and take a trailer load of lambs that I’ve
sold to customers on the way. I’ve done some pretty amazing transfers of lambs between trailers and into backs of utes, as well as on to other blocks on the way.
“The funniest thing is watching the reaction of Wiltshire ewes who have never seen a black sheep before. They start by running away, while all the Blackshire ram wants to do is get to know them. They only take an hour or two before their curiosity gets the better of them and they are checking him out.”
Initially, Donna found her Blackshires didn’t self-shed as well as the white Wiltshires. Culling and breeding from only full-shedding lines has overcome this issue.
Due to the large number of triplets born each spring, Donna has had her
ewes scanned so she can manage them more closely around lambing time. She ensures her ewes have the best shelter and feed available.
“They are an intelligent and friendly breed, which happily follow me around the paddock, and come when I call to move them. They are a meat breed and provide lovely roasts for our table.
“I enjoy managing and breeding Blackshire full-shedding sheep. I love talking about them and meeting new people through my sales.”
From now onwards, Donna plans to sell more Blackshire ewes as she’s reached the flock limit grazing on her block.
“There has always been a good demand for Wiltshire ewes, white or black, and the Blackshire rams.”
Blackshire ewe with triplets
Farming scheme helps Hospice
by Denise Gunn
Since its inception in March 1994, the Farming for Hospice programme has provided crucial financial support for Arohanui Hospice.
Arohanui Hospice receives partial funding from the government for its day-to-day operating expenses, but continually faces a growing financial challenge to bridge the funding gap. This year’s annual funding shortfall stands at $4.7 million, which means donations and fundraising efforts are vital.
The Farming for Hospice programme plays a huge role in raising funds,
with 100% of these proceeds directly supporting Arohanui Hospice. Initially starting as a beef grazing initiative, the scheme now involves more than 200 local farmers, rural businesses, corporate supporters, and 17 volunteer area coordinators covering Manawatū, Rangitīkei, Horowhenua and Tararua regions. Regional coordinators arrange the purchase of cattle, which are then
distributed to a network of farmers who have volunteered to rear Hospice stock. Local volunteer area coordinators liaise with the farmers.
“Farmers, growers and agricultural businesses can make a lasting impact by also donating livestock, agricultural proceeds or partnering with Arohanui Hospice, in ways that are both meaningful and aligned with their values,” said
The Cousins family from left:
Edmund, Toos, John, Julius and Guido are involved with Farming for Hospice
Hospice cattle in a farmer’s stockyards
Photo: NZFET
Farming for Hospice business manager Debbie Stewart.
Arohanui Hospice provides care to more than 1,200 patients across a vast area stretching north to the central plateau, south to Te Horo, east to coastal Tararua, and partway between Bulls and Whanganui.
“Our model of care is unique, with most patients’ care supported in the comfort of their own homes. Last year, 81% of patients were cared for entirely in the community. Our dedicated on-road clinical teams travelled more than 194,866km to make this possible.”
Feilding farmer John Cousins became involved with the scheme as a volunteer area coordinator 10 years ago. “That was on the strength of a phone call from the regional coordinator at the time,” he said.
John covers the northern end of Taonui Road, Finnis Road, Zig Zag Road, Ridge Road and down to the Pohangina Valley.
He said a large part of his role involves phoning farmers to coordinate Hospice cattle grazing, cull cows from dairy farmers, and cull ewes or a bale of wool from sheep farmers.
“The world is my oyster, and now, the fundraising has been widened to incorporate any proceeds from any livestock. It has made it more difficult for a farmer to say ‘it sounds like a very good scheme but sorry no’.
“It is vastly more straightforward for me to ask a farmer to graze a steer or two, donate the proceeds of some cull stock, or even the proceeds from a bale of wool or two, than to ask someone for a $1,000 donation.”
GET CASH FOR YOUR CALVING SEASON
Hospice cattle are grazed alongside farmers’ own herds until they reach optimum weight, targeting between 600–700kg.
“I notify the regional coordinator when steers are ready to go to works. He combines with other steers ready for slaughter.”
“If someone on hard hill country struggles with that target, then the steers can be moved on to another grazier, no problem, or maybe a cull ewe donation is more appropriate.”
John, his wife Toos, and their sons also graze Hospice steers with their bulls or dairy heifers.
“It’s a painless way to contribute to such a worthy
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organisation. Besides, it is the luck of the draw that one day, any one of us may have to call upon this wonderful, caring organisation for a loved one or for our own care.”
Funds raised each year through the programme contribute to providing end-oflife care, bereavement support, day programmes and 24/7 community care. In 2024, Farming for Hospice raised more than $241,679.
For further details on helping the Farming for Hospice scheme, or to make a donation, phone Debbie on 027 687 1020 or email debbies@arohanuihospice. co.nz.
In addition to grazing Arohanui Hospice cattle, cull cows and ewes, as well as bales of wool are all included in the scheme
New commercial director appointed
RAGT New Zealand, a growing force in high-performance forage and crop genetics, has announced a pivotal leadership transition, appointing James White as its new commercial director.
White, who has been instrumental in the company’s evolution, will now spearhead the New Zealand business, focussing on using genetic innovation to meet the evolving demands of Kiwi farming.
His elevation to commercial director is a strategic move, signalling RAGT’s increased commitment to delivering profitable, sustainable solutions for New Zealand farmers. With 19 years of experience in the business, White’s clear future vision is directly aligned with RAGT Group’s global strategy, which prioritises research and development to address complex agronomic challenges.
This amplified focus is crucial as the sector navigates increasing pressure from environmental regulation and the persistent need for feed security and higher on-farm productivity.
“I am delighted to have accepted the role of commercial director and am truly excited about the opportunities ahead for RAGT. The formidable strength of this business comes from our dedicated team and our exceptional genetics, which are powerfully supported by the wider RAGT Group,” said White.
“Together, we will build on this foundation for real success, continuing to deliver cutting-edge cultivars that ensure farm resilience and profitability. I look forward to further establishing RAGT as one of the leading genetics providers for New Zealand.”
RAGT New Zealand’s focus on innovative genetics and seed technologies, such as market leading perennial grasses and revolutionary novel endophyte, is set to be a key pillar of White’s leadership. His
mandate is to translate this cutting-edge global research into immediate, practical and highly-effective commercial solutions for local conditions, ensuring RAGT is known as a go-to partner for New Zealand’s progressive and productive farmers.
Commenting on the announcement, Simon Howell, Western Europe and Australasia business director for RAGT Group, stated, “James is the right person to lead RAGT New Zealand into its next phase of growth.”
This appointment follows the successful tenure of Bruce Garrett, who successfully led the business through its significant transition from Seed Force to a fully-fledged RAGT subsidiary. RAGT Group acknowledges Bruce for building a strong foundation and positioning the company as a key player in the New Zealand seed industry.
Understanding severe osteoarthritis
(Part one)
by John Arts
I regularly am contacted by people with severe osteoarthritis, usually in knees, hips and hands.
The question is whether anything other than pain relief or surgery can help. In most cases nutritional therapy can help. I have a client with severe knee osteoarthritis. He gets noticeable relief enabling him to continue his physical lifestyle that was becoming increasingly difficult.
Severe osteoarthritis is characterised by significant deterioration of cartilage, the tissue that cushions the ends of bones. This usually results in bones rubbing directly against each other. This leads to pain, swelling, stiffness and a reduction in joint mobility. People can often feel a grating sensation as the joint moves.
Severe osteoarthritis requires a wider range of supplements at higher doses. Changing to an anti-inflammatory diet will increase chances of results. Before we commence, we need to ensure compatibility of higher dose supplements with prescription medicines, especially blood thinners.
The key supplements we need are, in order of importance, chondroitin, curcumin (from turmeric), omega-3 fish oil and glucosamine. If medications, age and
circumstances allow, we start with a very intensive period, usually for 12 weeks. This involves daily doses of chondroitin 1,600mg, 100% water soluble (pepperfree) curcumin 1,200mg, EPA from fish oils 1,000mg, and glucosamine 1,600mg. This involves three different supplements.
Chondroitin sulphate can make a significant difference to joint function. The main benefits come from supporting healthy cartilage secreting cells (chondrocytes) and reducing joint inflammation.
I have seen excellent results from this approach. The benefits can be anything from, like my client, noticeable improvements in comfort and mobility through to people cancelling planned surgery. There is only a relatively small group who have no benefits. The key is to work to a personalised plan with regular reviews.
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 joint tissue.”
James White and Simon Howell
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Making the most out of rural internet
Rural customers haven’t always had the smoothest path to a secure, effective internet connection, but local Wi-Fi company kiwifi is improving that.
With the increased use of internetreliant technology, from activity collars for cows to health and pasture monitoring to farm apps that collate data, an internet connection is a necessary component of rural life. Getting a reliable, cost-effective system in place is crucial. Local Wi-Fi company ki-wifi (pronounced kee wee fi) helps rural people make the most of their internet subscriptions by providing Wi-Fi installation and expansion services.
Since the arrival of Starlink in the New Zealand market, rural customers are taking advantage of the opportunity to access high-speed internet without having to dig trenches from the road to the house. That has meant a lot of work setting up and installing Starlink for ki-wifi, which also supplies mounting equipment for the Starlink dish to be roof-mounted.
However, ki-wifi was established primarily to resolve Wi-Fi problems. For rural customers, that’s making sure they make the most of their internet connection, eliminate the need for extra Starlink or other internet provider subscriptions, and ensure they get a consistent Wi-Fi signal where they need it.
Rather than paying for multiple subscriptions to provide internet to additional dwellings, customers can pay a one-off fee for Wi-Fi equipment that can extend a single internet connection over a long
distance. Ki-wifi establishes internet needs with its customers, develops a plan to achieve them, and supplies and installs the required equipment.
Using just one internet connection, kiwifi can send internet from a house or main dwelling to the milking shed or woolshed, and to staff housing. By installing an airbridge, ki-wifi can extend Wi-Fi signals up to five kilometres, or by using an omni-directional outdoor access point, can offer 360-degree Wi-Fi coverage over a wide area.
These options are surprisingly affordable and one-off (no ongoing subscriptions). Any internet connection to a property has the potential to be extended, eliminating the need to pay extra monthly fees or subscriptions.
With the tagline ‘we make it better’, ki-wifi is a Wi-Fi company focussed on making Wi-Fi access better and easier. They’re locals too, so you can pick up the phone and have a chat anytime.
Making the most of summer
Summer is just around the corner: the days are getting longer, warmer and sunnier, so there’s no better time to start unlocking the benefits of solar energy and smart home automation.
As an experienced specialist electrical services team, we’re seeing more and more homeowners choosing to take control of their power use, boost their comfort and future-proof their properties. We’re here, with locations in Taranaki, Manawatū, Hawke’s Bay and the Bay of Plenty, to make the transition seamless for you.
Longer daylight hours mean your solar system can start delivering maximum returns from day one. A welldesigned solar array can significantly reduce your reliance on the grid, lower power bills and give you the peace of mind that comes with cleaner, more resilient energy. Our team handles everything from system design to installation and commissioning, ensuring your set-up is tailored to your home, lifestyle and longterm goals.
Solar is only half of the story. Smart home automation is quickly becoming a must-have for modern Kiwi households. Imagine arriving at a cool, well-lit home after a day out, or managing your lights, heating, security and energy use all from
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Get in touch with our team today at 06 280 2060, and see just how easy it can be to power your home your way.
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by Amy Fifita
A knock, knock — merry Christmas
Christmas time is delightful and stressful, a time for giving and expensive, and all of the in between, so having a failsafe plan is a must, especially if the relatives turn up without warning.
Christmas as a child is fun, presents, desserts, leftovers and family, but this writer certainly remembers the mischief she could get into in her grandfather’s home. It was back in the days when the wooden spoon was legal, or still acceptable, being sent to the room for having a mildly undesirable attitude. So, how should unsuspecting hosts of
the family Christmas plan for a surprise visit? The expectant children, the inappropriate relative, a new partner, and the sleepy old dears might knock on your door this holiday season, so don’t get caught unawares.
Spare chocolates for presents (or snacks), frozen chooks, gravy packets and other simple, but Christmas-acceptable items, are easy enough to stock up on. With the food order done, on to the more pertinent matters, like imprisoning the energetic children who think breakable ornaments are action figures to throw at their siblings.
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Ensuring Christmas is still magical for the little ones and still keeping your sanity is the goal. Time to dust off the old toy basket, have a box handy to hide irreplaceable valuables, and perhaps wonder if halters would work on children.
Joking aside, some clear boundaries, a stern look and a no-go area run-down might help once they grace your doorstep with a surprise visit. If those lovely, but full-of-beans, children are farm-friendly, a good run around the paddock would help burn off some excess energy, too.
A sure way to avoid awkward guests is a beach Christmas, especially if you like your house clean, tidy and in order. Pack
If done right, sometimes all it takes to manage the children at Christmas is a stern look up the car with food, presents, sun block and togs, and it doesn’t matter if extras show up.
The venue is free, nothing will be broken, the parents can manage their
own children by the water, and you can relax, eat and swim while enjoying the family gathering. Whatever your method, fun is to be had, memories will be made, and madness will be averted.
by Andy Bryenton
Gift giving’s curly history
With Christmas rushing up on us like the most speedy of reindeer-powered flying sleighs, thoughts are turning to gifts and how to strike that balance between ‘touchingly thoughtful’ and ‘cripplingly expensive’.
It’s nice to know that in this space even the first-ever giftgivers had a spot of bother. While today, it’s not uncommon to drop massive, unsubtle hints about what you might like under the tree in the form of carefully ‘dropped’ catalogues and ‘accidentally open’ web pages, but the figures originally associated with holiday largesse had to make up traditions as they went.
Saint Nicholas, the original Santa, started out giving a gift of cold hard cash to a trio of young ladies who needed money for their weddings. We’re told today that giving money or gift cards is a bit impersonal, but even back then, Saint Nick knew that nobody ever re-gifts a stocking full of gold. He later moved on to giving sweets and preserved fruits to children, which would have been quite a treat in the largely sugar-free Middle Ages, especially in the middle of winter.
The three wise men of biblical fame didn’t have to think about the gifts they brought to Bethlehem. They already knew what was traditional to give to a king and
wanted to honour the baby Jesus with that status. In ancient times, gold was seen as the purest metal, symbolising nobility and incorruptible morals.
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Frankincense is a rare incense associated with religious ceremonies and spiritual purity. Myrrh is a fragrant oil, used for the anointing at a king’s coronation. Despite the common joke that the wise man who had to fork out for the gold got the short straw on this deal, all of these commodities would have been equally rare and precious.
The old name for Christmas is Yuletide, and it comes from the Nordic traditions which predate the coming of Christianity to Europe. In the myths of the ancient German, British and Norse people, the first Yuletide gift was Thor’s hammer. Mjolnir means Yule festival gift, and Odin, father of the gods, had it made especially for his son.
Apparently, when told that he wasn’t allowed to fight during the midwinter festival, Thor sulked and complained so much that Odin relented and bought him the first holiday toy to make him shut up. Due to the fact that Thor’s hammer is said to create lightning, it was one gift which never ran out of batteries.
The Magi, of wise men from the east, gave gifts fit for a king; it’s time to start thinking about presents for the royalty in your family
by Amy Fifita
A dive into iconic rural memories
Delving into icons, memories and history, Te Radar and Ruth narrate
book, Kiwi Country: Rural New Zealand in 100 objects.
Meatsafes, herringbone milk sheds, and maybe former prime minister Robert Muldoon’s taxidermied lamb, all items that come to mind when thinking about iconic New Zealand farming. With memories and icons of rural New Zealand, Te Radar and Ruth Spencer have collated 100 items prominent in country living from homesteads to the gravel road.
Andrew Lumsden, also known as Te Radar, himself an icon, comes from a rural background. From pig shed treasure hunting to television personality, and being a fun-loving MC at FMG’s Young Farmer of the Year contest, Te Radar has always had a farming background.
Despite leaving the milking shed when he was 20 years old, Te Radar went on to study law at the University of Otago before pursuing theatre studies, where he earned the moniker Radar. Now in his 50s, he is married to co-author Ruth Spencer.
Growing up in Christchurch, Ruth is a freelance writer, and has a background in performing arts and music. Although raised in an urban hub, she spent time at a sheep station in Marlborough. It is
there, where she drew a lot of memories and inspiration for the new book.
Exploring origins and farm life, Kiwi Country: Rural New Zealand in 100 objects, brings items to life with their stories, from the classic Red Band gumboot to no-longer-used trinkets perhaps found in the pig shed.
‘Whenever my father was partway through a project, he’d often stop, stand up, look at the piece of machinery he was repairing or building, and simply say, “Pig shed.” We’d fossick about among horseshoes, harnesses, old ploughs, various cylinders, coils of wire, pumps, lengths of pipe, taps, boxes of bolts, axles and shovels.’
With illustrations penned by Joseph Carrington, such as a longdrop outside toilet or an old farmhouse, readers can appreciate the nostalgia from a farmyard childhood. The book could have its readership reminiscing about their own childhood, curious about what items they’ve held dear to their hearts.
While modern adults often reach for their phones, the book highlights technology, once part of the furniture,
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Husband and wife team Te Radar and Ruth Spencer collaborated to write Kiwi Country: Rural New Zealand in 100 objects
in almost every cowshed. Rural New Zealand hasn’t forgotten the transistor radio. Back in 1946, Kaitāia dairy farmer Mr Brent took out an extension cord, and connected it to his radio, an action that became embedded in rural history and still is today.
‘It wouldn’t be the cowshed without something playing in the background … The advent of transistor technology made radios portable and accessible but farmers were installing heavy, cabinet-sized valve radios into their cowsheds as soon as they were available.’
There are even stories from modern times. When nature becomes wild and affects the land, farmers soldier on, as with the 2019 floods in the South Island — how were farmers meant to get their bull semen straws during breeding season?
‘What you need is a Cessna full of chilly bins — and that’s exactly what farmers in the South Island got in 2019, after severe flooding put the breeding season at risk … You might not be able to get a pizza delivered in the country but you can always rely on the Semen Express.’
The background of objects’ stories, snippets of history and retelling of childhood memories shows even though
the book is about things, it’s about what is behind them that counts. It is about remembering the good times, Kiwi ingenuity and valuing the past.
Kiwi Country: Rural New Zealand in 100 objects can give readers a laugh, a history lesson, fond memories and much more. A book that celebrates our farmers in fun, amusing and informative ways, there are items to strike anyone’s fancy. Recently launched, the book is on the shelves for eager readers wanting a fun read.
The book tells the story of many items in
humorous way from Red Bands to hooded Swandries and corrugated verandahs
Illustrations: Joseph Carrington
Kiwi Country: Rural New Zealand in 100 objects is in stores now waiting for keen readers wanting to learn and laugh Illustrations: Joseph Carrington
by Denise Gunn
A magical Christmas tradition
Santa’s Cave in Palmerston North has delighted generations of families since it first opened in the basement of Collinson and Cunninghame’s department store in 1918.
Leopold Collinson and John Cunninghame established the department store on The Square in 1904, employing more than 50 staff members. The store grew to become a retail icon in the city, trading for many decades.
It was at the suggestion of a store employee, Elworthy Doddrell, that a Christmas cave was given consideration. Prior to emigrating to New Zealand, Elworthy had played the part of Santa in the department store he worked for in England.
In 1918, New Zealand struggled with the lingering effects of the first world war, followed by the influenza pandemic, which swept across the world. To lift the spirits of the local community, a decision was made to open the Christmas Cave in-store on Christmas Eve that year.
A Manawatū Standard advertisement described the cave as a wonderful, winding subterranean maze and tunnel,
dimly lit, and filled with fun, surprises, laughter, presents and big prizes for all.
Many of us have childhood memories from visiting the cave, lining up and following a white line on the floor as it wound its way through the department store to the cave entrance.
Excitement built with each step as we descended the staircase into the dark cave, with twinkly lights leading the way. Around each corner, delight and wonder as various Christmas displays moved or sparkled.
Santa was around one of those corners, spending time chatting with each child and finding out what was on the ever-growing Christmas wish lists. A few steps further revealed a large floor space, filled with enchanting displays and sparklingcoloured lights in all directions.
A small tractor mounted shelter and hedge trimmer servicing home and lifestyle properties across the Manawatu and surrounding areas.
Can cut hedges up to 5 metres high, top at 3.5 metres and fit down small accessways (2 metres and wider).
A light weight machine that will be gentle on lawns and unsealed areas.
Easy transported on a trailer so small jobs not a problem.
Operated by Lloyd (Fitzy) and Barb Fitzsimons
Christmas scenes and displays in the Christmas Cave have delighted generations of families for more than a century
Small mechanically-animated characters in various scenes told the story of Santa Claus, his reindeer and elves. An angel placed on top of an ever-changing light display, surrounded by strategicallyplaced mirrors, provided the effect of many angels, all changing colour at the same time.
A large model railway scene took up an entire wall of the basement. Families watched trains travelling along tracks, through tunnels, over bridges, and past farmyards and towns. In another area, a band of well-dressed clockwork monkey figurines performed.
In the centre of the cave, a small carousel propelled by pedal power proved popular with children. As each child pedalled faster, there were squeals of delight when the carousel increased in speed.
Collinson and Cunninghame Ltd was sold to the Farmers Trading Company in 1983. The cave continued to open each year until Farmers relocated to The Plaza. Te Manawa Museums Trust then took over the care of the displays and exhibits.
Now set up at Te Manawa Museum, the cave is open daily until Sunday, January 4 2026.
by Amy Fifita
Christmas spirit with community heart
The Feilding and District Promotion (FDP) team and Manchester Lions are preparing for the Christmas Carnival and Parade, an annual treat for families wanting to get in the festive spirit.
The full-day event runs out of the heart of Feilding from 10am to 3pm in the main CBD on Sunday, December 14, with all the festivities leading up to the Manchester Lions Christmas Parade, beginning at 1.30pm from Manfeild Park.
The parade of floats will lead Santa into the CBD, making its way down Fergusson Street, turning into Stafford Street — the new quieter zone, with the final run through to the clocktower along Kimbolton Road.
“The FDP team and all our wonderful volunteers come out early in the morning to transform the town into a big carnival of stalls, displays, entertainment and amusements. It has always been a massive event for the local community and visitors, who come from neighbouring regions to be part of the festivities,” FDP spokesperson Kathy Graham said.
“It takes a big team to bring it together, and it is very much a by the community, for the community event — is Manawatū’s biggest Christmas carnival and parade.”
The Manchester Lions’ members will gather at Manfeild to organise the floats from 10.30am, with judging starting at 12.30pm, all ready to go for the 1.30pm start time.
Email eventsupport@feildingpromotion. co.nz for more information.
“This is a much-loved event and a fantastic opportunity for families to come together and share in the joy of Christmas.”
Together, they will welcome the surge of visitors, offering their personalised service and plenty of inspiration for shoppers looking for those unique gift ideas and stocking fillers. The thousands of visitors to the carnival can enjoy the full variety of tastes, flavours and seasonal menus that will keep crowds fuelled from morning to late afternoon.
“The popular Heildi and Sean circus act is back, so too are the Steam Traction Engine Society engine rides, bouncy castle, merry-go-rounds, pony cart rides
Feilding has long embraced the spirit of Christmas, and this year’s celebration is no exception. The carnival stalls add colour and variety to the day, and the town’s retailers and eateries anchor the festivities.
and more will be there to keep the children entertained.”
Along with the displays, amusements and entertainment, there are two stages set up for live performance, one on the green in the square and one on Ferguson Street by Murray’s Irish Pub.
“Next Wave Music will be here to showcase gifted youth between 5 and 18 years old, who have the talent for performance. It is a super impressive line-up they have, and they will be here to entertain.” Stalls and floats are still open to registrations until November’s end.
The iconic Feilding Christmas Carnival popular for a full-on day of family fun including annual favourites Heidi and Sean Show Photo: Kathryn Graham
by Andy Bryenton
The history of how the ubiquitous Kiwi farm bike came to exist at all goes right back to the earliest days of motorcycling, and takes in almost every other purpose for a two-wheeler except agriculture along the way. The tale begins with a young German engineer called Siegfried Bettmann, who moved to England in 1885, just as his fellow countryman Mr Benz was inventing internal combustion.
long and unpaved road
Siegfried had no idea what was brewing back in Germany, but he did see a market for well-built bicycles as the sport took off in late-Victorian times. He founded the Triumph Cycle Company, and those who know motorbikes know how that played out. By the end of the first world war, in which Siegfried staunchly supported his adopted Britain, Triumph was the biggest bike maker in the nation.
It was during the war years that Mr Bettmann developed a bike for the muddy and dangerous battlefields of Europe. Light, nimble and with better suspension and a toughened frame, his first off-road bikes were primitive, but a step in the right direction.
Decades later, the second world war spurred off-road bike design and set the stage for post-war sporting development.
Royal Enfield’s ‘flying flea’, the WD/RE, was designed to be parachuted to scout troops and commandos in the field, and it looked like a modern off-road motorcycle, unlike the tiny welbike, which preceded it.
The little knobbly-tyred, 125cc bikes could go where big WLA Harleys, another allied wartime bike, could not, and after the conflict ended riders used them to blast along English country lanes and tracks too small or muddy for big machines. Enfield kept building the flea for civilians until 1953.
It was a Kiwi, Cyril John Callender, who created the first farm bike, the Mountain Goat. Callender’s goat was made for farmers from day one, and took inspiration from those war-fighting bikes of the past; it was light, had knobbly tyres and was geared for torque. Sir Edmund Hillary famously rode one in Nepal in the 1960s, gaining the attention of Suzuki in Japan, and another big name in the Far East, too.
Enter Soichiro Honda, who was looking for new innovations to boost his own growing motorcycle company. His smaller bikes were already being used on unpaved roads and in the countryside, but the introduction of the Elsinore in 1973 changed the game. Honda redefined offroad bikes with this two-stroke machine, setting the frame for both motocross racers and farming bikes for years to come.
Kiwi farmers can lay claim to the first true agricultural bike — the Mountain Goat of the 1960s
The gift of two-wheeled fun
by Andy Bryenton
There are few presents found under the Christmas tree which bring out more joy than a new bike; the only way to top this classic is with a new motorbike.
Getting your youngsters into motocross and off-road riding early means that they have a whole lifetime of trail riding and sporting fun to look forward to. It’s a way to let the kids enjoy the outdoors in a way that has nothing to do with screens and virtual reality, and for many parents, it’s an introduction to a favourite pastime the family can enjoy together.
Getting a grounding in the basics of how to ride safely and with skill is a good way to develop lifelong habits on two wheels, and launch a riding career that might lead anywhere. It could pave the way for podium finishes on the track, but it could equally become a core skill for a future job working on the land. It could become the catalyst for confidence that launches a road bike riding passion, with the mobility, fuel economy, commuting ease and adventurous touring it brings. Everyone starts somewhere, and future champions start with bikes like the classic PW50, still the little learner’s best friend after all these years.
Safety is, of course, paramount, and the PW50 delivers some smart features for mums and dads keen to see their children thrive and develop their riding abilities. With a super-low seat height, light weight that’s easy to balance, and an automatic two-stroke 50cc engine, this is the bike that started thousands of riding journeys. There’s no chain to tangle with, because the PW50 has a shaft drive set-up, and parents can set a maximum speed for learners using an adjustable throttle.
When it’s time to move up to a bigger bike, such as the Yamaha TT-R50 or its 110cc cousin, then there’s good news about the PW50 and its legendary reliability. Your kids might outgrow little boots and gloves, but there will always be someone else keen to buy a pre-loved peewee-sized learner bike for their up-and-coming track star in training.
If you’re looking at putting a little motorcycle under the tree for Christmas, remember that safety is about the complete package. You might want to get those gloves, boots, clothes and a goodquality helmet sorted, so Santa knows which ones to deliver. After all, it’s pretty certain that any youngster unwrapping their first motorbike is going to want to take it for a spin as soon as possible.
Phillip Cockery OWNER
Looking for a way to get your whole family on two wheels? Little learner bikes like the PW50 are still the place to begin
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