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Postal pressure could increase isolation
by Andy Bryenton
Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) has indicated that its membership is deeply disappointed at the decision to make significant changes to New Zealand Post’s minimum service obligations.
“These service cuts are a step backwards for rural New Zealand,” said Rural Women New Zealand national president Sandra Matthews. “They will make life harder for rural people who already face longer travel times, reduced access to services and unreliable digital connectivity.”
Under new postal service arrangements, rural mail delivery will be reduced from five days a week to three, and the number of postal outlets will drop from 880 to 500, and then to 400 within four years. There will also be an increase in communal collection points, replacing individual mailboxes.
“Rural New Zealanders rely heavily on postal services, not just for mail but for medication, paying bills, receiving essential deliveries, and maintaining
business operations. For many, frequent, accessible post services are a necessity.
“Our rural communities are made up of hundreds of small businesses integral to the success of our main export earners, primary industries and tourism. The food and fibre sector alone makes up 10.5% of our GDP.
“These changes may reduce some costs to NZ Post, but they certainly won’t help increase productivity or maintain the viability of our regional communities,” Ms Matthews said.
New Zealand Post, as a State-Owned Enterprise, is obligated under the StateOwned Enterprises Act to act with a sense of social responsibility by having regard to the interests of the communities in which it operates, says RWNZ.
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“Where is the social responsibility in decisions that isolate rural New Zealanders?” asks Rural Women New Zealand as postal changes shrink the mail network in the regions
by Andy Bryenton
Methane targets look to 2050
Alongside carbon dioxide emissions, the biggest gas referenced in government
impact is methane.
A vigorous debate on methane, its role in global warming, and the impact of methane coming from the nation’s livestock has been ongoing for several terms of successive governments. Recently, the coalition set a benchmark for methane emissions reduction. Following cabinet approval, a target of methane emissions 14 to 24 per cent below 2017 levels has been indicated.
The coalition is calling the decision science-based and practical, and it’s based on an independent Methane Science Review commissioned in 2024.
“We’ve accepted a range of advice and worked closely with industry to agree on a practical target that protects food production, whilst substantially reducing New Zealand’s farm emissions. Today, we’re delivering a practical, fair pathway that recognises New Zealand agriculture efficiency, protects jobs and production, and upholds our climate commitments,” said Agriculture, Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay.
Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford spoke out on the proposed targets, saying that their scientific grounding is a better result than the idealistic measures that could have been used. However, the farming advocacy group also spoke up for lower targets in the past. It’s their opinion the 14 to 24
per cent drop is achievable by 2050, and Kiwi farms are on track to hit it.
The target comes with caveats that could help make it an easier sell to a rural sector that is far from unanimous on climate change mitigation measures. There will be a legislated review in 2040, seeking to align New Zealand’s biogenic methane target with any new science forthcoming in the interim, and to look at the parallel progress of our trading partners. Additionally, there will be no tax on agricultural methane emission.
The coalition states this kind of tax risks farm shutdowns, which could drive production, profits and employment offshore.
The focus of the government’s push to slash methane emissions centres on research and technology. There’s already a $400 million investment slated to speed up the development of methane-reducing tools and tech. These include innovations like EcoPond, designed to cut effluent pond methane emissions by 90 per cent.
“It will be up to each farmer, processor and company to decide how best to meet their own commitments, using the tools and innovations that fit their business,” said parliamentarian Simon Watts.
“Our approach is clear: technology and partnership, not taxes, will deliver the reductions that we need. By investing in
new tools and giving farmers practical support, we can cut emissions without cutting production or profitability.”
Methane emissions targets have been set for 2050, with no tax and a technological approach as part of an ambitious programme
Homestead holds key to farm diversification
by Denise Gunn
With a growing interest in agritourism, Kiwitea farmers Ian and Steph Strahan have diversified their farming operation, opening the farm’s original historic homestead to guests.
Ian grew up on the 442ha sheep, beef and arable farm that his late parents, Sam and Rosemary, moved on to soon after their marriage in 1967. Sam was a former All Black rugby player from 1967–1973, playing 45 games and 17 test matches.
Over the past 20 years, Ian and Steph have continued to build the farm business. Using free-range grazing systems on a seasonable basis, the farm finishes
nearly 15,000 lambs in winter, and up to 1,000 bulls and steers in summer, annually. Wheat, peas and fodder crops are also grown.
The couple’s hard work was recognised in 2022, when they won the Wairere Central Districts Red Meat Farm Business of the Year title.
“Setting goals is as important as any business, so setting and hitting financial and production targets are a great way
to celebrate planning that has worked,” said Ian.
Temperatures on-farm are fairly mild through winter and spring, and an average annual rainfall of 1,050mm is received.
Ian said Manawatū is fortunate to have a relatively reliable climate.
“Grass will grow up to 10 times faster in spring than winter, so it is very important to match the demand from your animals with the supply of forage
you grow. Feed volume is the main fix for animal health.”
Autumn is Ian’s favourite time of year when the weather is settled, and the graft of busy spring and summer is over.
“It is a time to reflect on what you have achieved over the year.”
In 2023, during a family discussion, it was decided to open the farm’s original homestead to guests. The family share a passion for farming, food and hosting
Ian and Steph Strahan with their daughters Edie, Olive and Isla
Steph and Ian won the Wairere Central Districts Red Meat Farm Business of the Year title in 2022
visitors, so turning the homestead into boutique farmstay accommodation ticked all those boxes. Ian, Steph and their three daughters live in another home on the property.
“We wanted to diversify to keep the next generation interested, and keep the whole farming operation viable. The girls were really on board. It’s been a really lovely project for us to do together, and a succession plan with them,” said Steph.
The original homestead, built from locally-milled tōtara in 1870, was home to Ian for most of his life.
“It’s got character and soul, and it’s really cosy, comforting and relaxing,” said Steph.
During the homestead’s refurbishment, as many wool products as possible have been used throughout the house. Rugby memorabilia, including Sam’s All Black jersey, is displayed in the pool room.
“I wanted to celebrate New Zealand farming,” said Steph. “Ian is in Federated Farmers, and is passionate about bridging
that gap between rural and urban. People can experience our little slice of rural Manawatū.”
During an OE in her 20s, Steph worked as a private chef in the UK and a country lodge in Spain.
“They did hosted meals every night. That’s where I got my real love for this sort of thing,” she said.
Steph provides a home-cooked country style breakfast to homestead guests.
When Sam and Rosemary were on the farm, Rosemary belonged to the Central Districts Farm Forestry Group, and began fencing off the farm’s native bush areas. Her love of trees and native areas passed on to Ian who holds a forestry degree. He’s invested a lot of time and effort into looking after the waterways and land.
“We are working towards a QEII bush area, and have other nice spots to meander to and enjoy,” said Steph.
Over the past several years, the couple has run two types of farm tours through Farm-to-Farm Tours. One tour is geared
towards visitors wanting to look at farming basics with Ian or Steph.
“There’s a lot of people who have never stepped foot on a farm,” said Steph.
A technical on-farm tour taps into Ian’s expertise. “Ian loves doing the technical tours. We’ve had farmers visit from all over the world.”
The Strahans chose to name the homestead Romney Lane to reflect the rich farming family history in the area. Cheltenham and Kiwitea were renowned for Romney studs, earning the colloquial terms Romney Lane or Ram Alley.
“We’ve done this so we can share our piece of New Zealand with people,” said Steph. “Our ordinary is someone else’s extraordinary.”
The Romney Lane homestead on the Strahan’s Kiwitea farm
Ian grew up on the 442ha farm that previously belonged to his late parents Sam and Rosemary
Iconic hotel reopens
by Denise Gunn
The doors to the Argyle Hunterville officially reopened this month after a group of local investors gave the hotel a fresh start.
Last year, when the Art Deco-style building was placed on the market, Hunterville local Hamish Cavanagh and his partner Bex Henderson toyed with the idea of buying the hotel with others in the community.
Conversations began and were followed up with 56 emails sent out to community members, suggesting forming a syndicate group to purchase the Argyle Hotel. Forty-
nine of those responses were positive, accepting the challenge.
Three Argyle hotels have stood on the corner of SH1 and Bruce Street in Hunterville. The first, built in 1885, burnt down after a fire broke out in a store up the road. That fire quickly spread, engulfing several neighbouring businesses. Fifteen shops, as well as the Argyle Hotel, were destroyed.
In 1947, after being destroyed by fire for the second time, the hotel was again rebuilt and continued trading until a few years ago. It was then left standing empty.
In August 2024, the Argyle Hotel went up for auction. The group pulled together enough finance to become the successful bidders at the auction and owners of their much-loved pub.
Hamish is now one of five shareholderelected directors of the Argyle Hunterville syndicate.
“The Argyle has always been the hub of Hunterville,” he said.
Extensive renovations began soon after purchase to transform and modernise the iconic establishment, while retaining the building’s distinctive character and charm. Many of the owners also
Hunterville local Hamish Cavanagh is one of Argyle Hunterville’s five shareholder-elected directors
The painting team inside Argyle Hunterville
put in the hard yards, picking up paint brushes to freshen up the hotel’s interior themselves.
Argyle Hunterville has now become a community hub, featuring a cafe, garden bar and restaurant with a fresh, welcoming atmosphere. Food and beverages are sold throughout the day. A local’s corner bar indoors offers ice-cold tap beers, selected wines and bar snacks.
The hotel’s former accommodation wing was converted into two unique retail stores, Salt & Honey and Hunterville Village Gifts, and a professional hairdressing salon, Wool & Comb. Hamish said the project has been a massive undertaking.
“We saw an opportunity to not just restore a beloved local pub, but to create something that serves multiple needs for
our community — a place to eat, drink, shop and get-together.”
Bex has been the project manager throughout the renovations, which took around 12 months.
“Every decision we made during the renovation was guided by one question: what does Hunterville need? We wanted to create jobs, support local businesses, and give people more reasons to stay and spend time in our town.”
The local community has met the reopening of the hotel with enthusiastic support. Residents have expressed pride in seeing the historic building restored and repurposed for the next generation. With Argyle Hunterville remaining in the hands of local ownership, the establishment remains responsive to community needs. The syndicate team
plans to host events for the district, and is also open to ideas and feedback from patrons and customers.
“This is just the beginning,” said Hamish. “We’re here for the long haul, and we’re committed to making the Argyle
a cornerstone of Hunterville for years to come.”
The Argyle Hunterville is open Wednesday to Sunday from 8am until late.
“We’ve had a really successful start,” said Bex.
“The
One of Argyle Hunterville’s new features includes a cafe
From left: Argyle Hunterville’s five shareholder-elected directors James Hurley, Hayden Gould, Hamish Cavanagh, Fi Dalgety and Philippa Williams
The construction and renovation project took almost 12 months to complete
Hard yards sees businesses flourish
by Denise Gunn
Whanganui couple Graham Wright and Beth Lamb run three busy businesses in the region, with each of those contributing to or supporting the community.
Graham’s involvement in the silviculture industry spans more than 40 years, stretching back to when he started out on his own in 1981. He established Wright Silviculture Ltd in 1996, covering work in the southern North Island.
In the past, Graham has employed up to 70 team members, but he now employs 20 men in two working gangs. The size of the working gangs, run by Graham’s
son Angus and one other foreman, is determined by the jobs undertaken. These employees are either Whanganui residents or Pacific Islanders with all holding industry-standard qualifications.
“Jobs come in through either existing clients or word of mouth, and are allocated to either of the two gangs,” said Graham.
“Many of the jobs are stay-away where the men are provided with food and accommodation near to the jobs.”
Graham’s experience in the industry was recognised this year when Wright Silviculture won the Southern North Island Wood Council (SNIWC) award for Silviculture Excellence.
This award recognises outstanding individuals or companies for their professionalism and achievement in silviculture, and demonstrates excellence beyond best practice guidelines.
Graham was also a finalist in the 2024 Central North Island Wood Council (CNIWC) Forestry Awards. Prior to that, he was twice a finalist in the forestry awards held in Rotorua, acknowledged for his crew undertaking the most formal qualifications.
Along with Wright Silviculture, Graham and Beth own two kiwifruit orchards and lease a third, covering a total area of 10ha in Mangamahu and Whanganui.
WRIGHT SILVICULTURE LTD
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Ernslaw One sponsored the 2025 Southern North Island Wood Council (SNIWC) award for Silviculture Excellence, which was presented by Steve Couper (on right) to Graham (centre) and his son Angus (on left)
Some of Graham and Beth’s orchard land is used by City Mission Whanganui to grow vegetables
“We grow the Hayward (green) kiwifruit,” said Beth.
Hayward was the existing variety when the couple purchased the orchards. They’ve since planted a further two and a half hectares with Hayward kiwifruit to fill gaps in the Mangamahu and Whanganui orchards.
“We were a red triallist with Zespri, but we didn’t continue with that variety as it’s very susceptible to PSA, and prefers the warmer weather further north.”
Kiwifruit harvesting takes place between April and June, dependent on laboratory testing giving the Wrights the green light.
“When they say it’s good to go, that’s when we pick,” said Beth.
“We employ five people all year round, with extra people brought in for winter pruning and picking. We can have up to 30 people over the picking season.”
As registered contract growers with Zespri International Limited, all Graham and Beth’s picked kiwifruit is trucked by local carrier, Sharp As, to a packhouse in Katikati and then exported through this marketer.
In the past, Graham and Beth have used one of their orchards to coordinate pruning courses to upskill workers, too.
Facilitated by New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Inc (NZKGI), these courses are funded by the Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI).
In 2013, when City Mission Whanganui put out a call for land to grow vegetables, the couple approached this charitable trust offering the use of some of their orchard grounds. Vegetable gardens were then established with a wide range of
crops. When harvested, these vegetables are placed in the hands of people in need.
“They have a group of volunteers to plant, weed and harvest,” said Beth.
The Wright’s home base is a lifestyle property at Fordell where they run a handful of cattle and raise a few pet lambs. In addition to their home, the property includes a renovated two-storey, self-contained cottage used as a bed and breakfast. Beth takes care of the office work for the B&B, and the forestry and kiwifruit companies.
Bookings for their rural B&B, Magnolia Cottage, come through Airbnb, Vrbo and Bookabach.
“We provide breakfast for guests with our own eggs and produce, which includes honey, jam and fruit where possible, and we do the cleaning ourselves. Guests enjoy wandering the property, interacting with our dogs, and feeding the pet lambs in spring.”
Beth said they enjoy meeting new people through hosting them in their Magnolia Cottage B&B.
“We hosted backpackers through Help Exchange for 12 years prior to Covid, and really enjoyed the interaction with people from all over the world.”
Graham and Beth also own a further 40ha farm at their Mangamahu property, where one of the kiwifruit orchards is situated.
The couple’s leisure time is spent with family, which includes their seven grandchildren. Graham goes fishing whenever possible and also does some hunting. Beth enjoys growing their own vegetables, breeding and raising chickens and Japanese quail.
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The forestry crew after flying in by helicopter to a job site
Sharemilking situation sought
by Denise Gunn
Award-winning dairy farmers José and Kirby Hamber are searching for a sharemilking opportunity in the wider Manawatū region.
Backed by 11 years of contract milking and lower-order sharemilking experience in varying capacities, the couple brings expertise in small and large herds, operating under different systems.
“This ranges from a 260-cow, systemone operation to large 1,100-cow systemfive operations across the North Island,” said José.
For several seasons, the Hambers managed Cheltenham Dairies for Colin Beazley on Rob and Frances Crothers’ 350ha property, milking 1,200 cows. A move to contract milking on an irrigated sand country farm with 550 cows near Himatangi followed.
“After two years, the farm was to be leased out so we found our current contract milking role of 550 cows on Jenny and John Will’s farms.”
The couple is now in the dedication and growth phase of their business.
“We really want to challenge ourselves in a role to see what targets we can accomplish in a strategic partnership with aligned goals. Putting 100% into learning the lessons and leveraging our potential in the opportunities we are fortunate to have.”
Both graduates from Massey University, each holding a Bachelor of AgriScience, José and Kirby have continued studying. They’ve both gained a Diploma in Primary Industry Business Management, and certificates in Sustainable Nutrient Management, and completed various short courses.
José said continuous improvement is their key attribute.
“In every single role, we have made positive progressive improvements. This is evident in our highly capable staff members, consistent single-digit not-in-calf rates, seven gradefree certificates, New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards achievements, a strong reputation and optimised grazing management.
“Hitting goals and targets is incredibly rewarding for us. Identifying and solving farm problems, big or small, and finding efficiencies is what gets us out of bed in the morning. There’s always opportunity for improvement.”
An ideal role for the Hambers could look like a mid to large-scale contract milking position, with the potential to lead into herdowning sharemilking. Alternatively, it could provide them the opportunity to gain equity to enter into a mid-size herd in two to four years.
José and Kirby’s long-term goal is to reach farm ownership within 12 years.
“We want to gear towards succession of the next generation and give back to other contract/sharefarmers.”
Contact the Hambers at ourdairylegacy@ gmail.com.
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Mitochondria are our cell engines that take the energy from food and change this into the energy our bodies need. At the end of the line is the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) to provide the energy that makes our bodies work.
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The result is always tiredness, but other symptoms are determined by the type of disease. For example, in MS mitochondrial changes occur leading to nerve myelin damage.
The first step to improve energy is to add coenzyme Q10. Be aware that most of the CoQ10 on the market is low-cost semi-synthetic material. I prefer high-grade naturally-fermented material despite its higher cost. There is no such thing as a good, cheap CoQ10.
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Seeds of opportunity
by Amy Fifita
Eshare about the opportunities for health and fibre that Cannabis
ven though the operation has moved south, Nigel says there is still potential for crops in the North Island. With hemp being a versatile plant, many industries, from construction to wool, can use it.
“The fibre potential for the North Island should be there in time for building products or building material ingredients. That means a decortication facility will need to be built to supply the steadily growing housing building product demand in the top half of the North Island,” said Nigel. “The lower stalk and stem are put through a decortication process where they break the stalk apart, and the woody
JL PEDLEY TRANSPORT LTD
core, which is called the hurd, goes one way for animal bedding, and as building material for rammed earth homes.
“Lower-grade fibre is being blended with waste wool to make geotextiles for weed matting and other uses. The current rules do not allow us to use the roots or any biomass coming from the hemp crop, so it is purely seed or stalk at this stage.”
Rubisco is already processing hemp stalks, producing hurd for animal bedding and sustainable building materials, while also blending hemp fibre with wool and manufacturing geotextiles and bio-composites.
“Hemp enhances the value of wool, with both fibres working in harmony to complement one another. Hemp offers a tensile strength 20 times greater than merino wool, adding durability and resilience, while wool contributes its exceptional moisture management and odour-absorbing qualities.
“Together, they create superior products with broad potential applications. From textiles to building materials, the opportunities are vast,” said Anton. Nigel says farmers are interested in hemp as a crop and understand that the fibre market opens up more for
Hemp Farm’s Nigel Hosking and Anton van der Westhuizen
sativa holds in the North Island.
Jacob Draper, director, Anton van der Westhuizen, Patrick Draper, director, and Nigel Hosking showcasing their health products at the Ashburton factory
Farmers are showing interest in hemp as a crop, and the opportunities for it in the fibre market
other applications. With all parts of the plants usable, regulations have created boundaries, but hope is in sight. With hemp regulations under scrutiny, rules surrounding the industry may loosen.
“When the food laws changed, it became illegal to feed animals hemp, but it allowed us to feed other parts of the plant to humans. One molecule of THC triggers the Misuse of Drugs Act in New Zealand,” said Nigel.
“Now we can feed hemp seed oil and products to anyone, from infants to the elderly, and can now use other parts of the plant to make protein or hemp hearts.
“From an animal feed perspective, it is a wonderful product. We are considering changes to the rules to enable us to supply companion animals and the pet nutrition market in New Zealand.
“Earlier this year, David Seymour announced a comprehensive review of the hemp regulations to see how to open up the industry for everyone.”
With hemp grown in Australia, Canada and China, New Zealand has the opportunity to go into those markets, where traceability is necessary. Anton says the enterprise resource planning allows them to trace the hemp from seed to sale. “We use an ERP system that allows us to trace from seed to sale. We know exactly where the seed comes from to the end product. Traceability is a key aspect that we focus on to ensure transparency from seed to sale,” said Anton.
With Hemp Farm beginning in Waikato, there is still hope for future endeavours as the industry evolves and grows.
“Some of the trials in the North Island have gone well, including the commercial
Hemp has a dense nutritional value with the oil, proteins and amino acids, a benefit for everybody’s health
production areas. Higher moisture and humidity could be a challenge for some parts of the North Island.
“If it is managed correctly, and the right amount of water is applied during the growing cycle, it should be a crop. There is pressure on farmers to create returns.
“There is a high payout for lamb, dairy, and beef is on the rise, but arable needs a lift. Some of the new varieties we’ve been trialling that yield higher kilograms per hectare are what we want.”
Nigel says while the Hemp Farm brand is strong and well-trusted, he would like to showcase hemp’s value through education.
“It is a great product, and for people to understand that they have something on their doorstep that is 100% New Zealand, that can do all of these things for you, is
great. The more people we can educate about hemp, the better for everybody,” said Anton.
Whanganui
by Amy Fifita
World first in Palmerston North
When the government called for more regulation surrounding nursing in New Zealand, Ellen Dougherty was first in line to become the first registered nurse in the world.
A matron at Palmerston North, Miss Dougherty, spent her lifetime caring for and administering hospitals to their full potential. From her beginnings in Marlborough, Ellen and her mother Sarah followed her father Daniel, who was a whaler and had established a station before moving north to Wellington to become a harbour pilot.
Growing up at the Palmer Head pilot’s house was no easy mission. With life spent in isolation, Ellen was educated by her father’s library, a governess and her parents. Far from a local hub, Ellen got to experience a life unlike many modern children — on boats and exploring the natural surroundings.
Her haven away from city life changed when her father died in 1857. Her family moved, so her mother could run the Ghuznee Street boarding house in Wellington. In 1885, Ellen began working
at the Wellington District Hospital, where she would gain her certificate of nursing.
With her nursing certificate in hand and other education, Ellen ran the surgery ward, and was also in charge of the accident ward. By 1893, she was the acting matron at the Wellington District Hospital before relocating for a permanent role in the same position in Palmerston North.
This move was a pivotal moment for Palmerston North Hospital. With her, she brought not only experience, but also two nursing staff and two medical officers. With limited funds and few basic supplies, Ellen took action.
Knowing cleanliness was a must in the medical profession to avoid infection, ensuring having ample linens was a point of call. With the help of her family, bed linen and bandages were sewn for the hospital to use.
During this time, Palmerston North was a developing town with the construction of a main railway line, saw milling and bush clearing. Doctors were not always accessible.
These events led to a busy hospital, and nurses would work 12 hours and extra time to ensure the efficient running of the hospital. Ellen would go above and beyond to ensure patients were cared for, dressing wounds, mending broken bones and other ailments.
Adding another credential to her achievements, Ellen became a pharmacist in 1899, and ran the dispensary. In 1901, the government decided to enact the Nurses Registration Act that came into effect in 1902. Ellen was the first in line, thus becoming the first stateregistered nurse in New Zealand and worldwide.
Ellen Dougherty, New Zealand’s and the world’s first state-registered nurse was matron at Palmerston North Hospital in 1902
Choosing the right ride-on lawnmower
The team at Central Mowers in Palmerston North
Whether you are about to move to a lifestyle block with a large lawn, or looking for something that can mow faster than a push mower, there are so many options that it is easy to get confused by the choices available.
Section — is it flat or sloped? Are there gardens that you need to navigate? If yes, then you need to look at the space around those gardens to ensure that the mower you are purchasing will fit through the gaps. A zero-turn mower enables you to mow around curved gardens quickly, saving time and fuel.
Set your budget and then research to look for the best products and features that you can get for that spend. Some features to look for are:
Transmission: Less-expensive models have a lever-operated gear transmission. If you can afford a small amount extra, look for a hydrostatic transmission.
Deck width: Lawn tractors generally range from 33” up to 54” cut. Measure your gaps before you purchase a mower.
Side discharge v mulching v catching: can you easily dispose of the clippings? If not then mulching is a good option. Catching is a good option if you have children or pets.
Robotic: great for busy people who are time-poor, and they have come a long way from the ones needing guide wires — but there are many options and we recommend a diagnostic prior to purchasing one.
Pricing: these vary widely — if you are purchasing something that you want to last, look for reputable brands that you can easily
source parts for and have good warranty periods and after-sales service. Head to a dedicated outdoor power equipment stockist for the best possible advice.
As a local family-owned and communityfocussed business, Central Mowers believe that their continued success in such a challenging economic time has been from
having a focus on not only great customer service, but the ability to be open and honest with customers when it comes to what they need. So, if you need any information or advice, call in and Rob and the team will be happy to talk through the options with you. If you need outdoor power equipment, or repairs and servicing on your machinery, call in and say hi, or find them at 696 Tremaine Avenue, Palmerston North, or visit centralmowers.co.nz.
The Central Mower Services team are on-hand to help customers select the most suitable ride-on lawn mower for the job
by Amy Fifita
An ode to Scottish heritage
Celebrating a centennial this year, the Manawatū Scottish Pipe Band looks back on its last 100 years, remembering its origins and the accolades achieved along the way.
The Manawatū Scottish Pipe Band is the largest in New Zealand. Starting in 1925, following the emergence of the Manawatū Scottish Society, the band honours its rich Scottish heritage.
“In the early days, many of the Scottish immigrants arriving in New Zealand had been exiled from their homeland. They tended to settle in the same areas
and socialise together,” said treasurer Debbie Benton.
“The Scottish, or Caledonian Societies, formalised these get-togethers, provided support and a sense of belonging. Some of the immigrants had brought their bagpipes and other musical instruments with them. The social occasions always included music, so the forming of a pipe
band at the same time as the Manawatū Scottish Society was inevitable. The band is now a separate organisation — the Manawatū Scottish Pipe Band.”
From publishing a book to hosting the upcoming Centennial Highland Ball, the organisation shares its celebration for many to enjoy. “The band produced a book called Tales and Tunes: The first 100
years of Manawatū Scottish. It includes the history, stories, pictures and tunes that have been important to the band over the years.
“In July, all the bands played together at a concert at the Spiers Centre in Palmerston North, and with a large audience from across the region, it was very successful.
The bands have young and old pipers and drummers, making the group inclusive for all, no matter their gender or age
The Manawatū Scottish Grade One Band won the NZ National Championships, held in Invercargill, in March
“Our grade one band travelled to Scotland in August to compete at the European Pipe Band Championships in Perth, and then in Glasgow at the World Pipe Band Championships. The band was elated to finish ninth at the worlds.”
Made up of four bands in different grades and learner groups, the organisation’s hub is the Manawatū Scottish Society Hall in Palmerston North.
“We have some great leaders within the organisation, and have wonderful teachers instructing our learners. One of those is Stuart Easton. He is a world-renowned bagpiper and also the piping tutor at Palmerston North Boys’ High School.
“Pipe bands are great for teaching children the value of self-discipline and dedication, while taking part in a team
environment. They learn to support each other and to work together. It’s very inclusive and one of the few activities where age and gender have no barriers.
“The bands love to perform in public and take great pride in leading the Palmerston North Christmas Parade and the Anzac Day Civic Parade. The band adds colour and vibrancy to these occasions, and these are great times for our youngest players to have their first play-out.”
Bringing cheer to their local community with the tune of the bagpipe and beat of the drum, Debbie says the band draws its passion from the group itself. No longer limited to local gatherings, the band now travels nationally and internationally to perform.
“Our passion comes from the support we all get from each other, the music, the camaraderie, the friendships and seeing the children grow in confidence and skill. With several bands under the Manawatū Scottish Pipe Band umbrella, the organisation is now much larger. Players can begin as learners and progress through to the highest level of playing.”
Having built a community playing an ode to its Scottish Heritage, the organisation looks to the future. To celebrate its centennial, the organisation is hosting the Centennial Highland Ball on Saturday, October 18, at 6pm at the Silks Lounge.
“The organisation has come a long way since its beginnings. It no longer just provides music for social gatherings. Nowadays, the focus is on competition and public parades.
“The players have been putting in lots of practice so they can present their best performances. Many hours have also gone into fundraising to get their uniforms and instruments together.
“We would like to send our thanks to the many sponsors and supporters who help the bands with grants, sponsorship, donations and fundraising. We couldn’t do it without them.”
The Manawatū Scottish Grade One Band won the NZ National Championships, held in Invercargill, in March
The Manawatū Scottish Pipe Band performs and competes nationally and internationally, including every second year at the annual World Pipe Band Championships
by Denise Gunn
Flooring needs covered
The dedicated and experienced team at Rangitikei Floorings provides
for their customers.
Since its establishment in 1966, the locallyowned business has grown to become one of New Zealand’s largest independent installers of flooring products. Rangitikei Floorings has met the flooring needs of customers throughout New Zealand, and as far as Hong Kong.
Brendon and Jocelyn Day own and manage the business. The couple bought the company from Wayne and Anne Young who employed Brendon when he started his apprenticeship as a 14-year-old.
“We are a local family with four children who have come back to where we met 28 years ago,” said Jocelyn. “We were given this opportunity, and took it.”
The qualified sales team is on hand to assist customers throughout the entire selection process. Experienced staff follow on from this, installing the products with topquality workmanship.
“The staff are happy and eager to help with any flooring need, big or small,” said Jocelyn. “We will go above and beyond.”
As a member of FloorNZ Member Services, Rangitikei Floorings is backed by an internationally-recognised industry body. Customers can rest assured that all work is
covered under the company’s guarantee for quality.
A wide range of flooring products are available for residential and commercial purposes.
“Our new motto is ‘out with the old and in with the new’.”
In her role as sales consultant, Jocelyn finds meeting repeat, happy customers is
one of the most rewarding aspects. “It makes you feel great to help our customers; new and existing.”
The Days also believe youth are the future of flooring, so they plan to draw more apprentices to the trade.
Rangitikei Floorings is in the process of upgrading the showroom with new and current flooring.
“This helps the customer to see what it will look and feel like at their home. We aim to keep providing Palmerston North and the wider community with quality workmanship and prices.”
For all enquiries, contact Rangitikei Floorings on 06 354 2755, visit their showroom at 691 Main Street, Palmerston North, or online at rangitikeifloorings.com.
027
Extending your growing season
For more than four decades, Premier Tunnel Houses has extended the growing season for
vegetable gardeners.
Originally designed and developed in Gore, Southland, the tunnel houses were built to withstand the effects of adverse weather conditions. Premier Tunnel Houses has been based in Manawatū for 40-plus years on the outskirts of Feilding.
Owned and operated by Carl and Renee Southee, the couple are keen vegetable growers, enjoying access to fresh food to provide for their family all year round.
Premier Tunnel Houses manufactures greenhouse kitsets in a range of sizes for the home and lifestylers. Aluminium hoops and a specialised industrial-grade plastic cover, as used by commercial growers, provide an ideal all-yearround growing environment.
“Our tunnel houses are robust, the aluminium hoops are closer together than most other competitors and there are more horizontal braces,” said Carl.
“Combined, these attributes generate unparalleled strength and rigidity, coupled
with an ability to expand and contract as temperatures change. The plastic cover retains heat more effectively than glass and ventilation is provided via roof vents.
“Access is via one door at the front, which comes as a standard, but customers can
customise access by including an additional door to the rear. Screen doors can also be added to the front and rear to assist with additional ventilation.”
The tunnel houses can be pegged down directly to the ground or attached to an additional timber frame on the ground, creating raised vegetable beds.
“Our tunnel houses have added another dimension to home gardening for thousands of happy customers, with freedom from pests and protection from extreme weather to extend your growing season.
“We find our tunnel houses can extend the growing season six to eight weeks each side of spring and autumn when compared to growing outdoors. This will depend on your location in the country,” said Carl. “In Manawatū, we grow all year round in ours.”
The easily assembled tunnel house kitsets can be delivered directly to customers throughout New Zealand. There is also a pick-up option available.
Phone 06 323 9423 or visit tunnelhouses. co.nz for further information.
Carl and Renee Southee have a wide range of tunnel house options available at their Premier Tunnel Houses base near Feilding
by Andy Bryenton
Short list for top tractor of 2026
It’s only one month until Agritechnica in Europe, and that means the short lists are out for 2026 Tractor of the Year, a sneak peek at what you’ll want to be driving into the new season.
In the high-power section, where you’ll find the tractors with the biggest torque and horsepower, the short list is a who’s who of big names in agricultural
engineering. Case IH represents the big red brand with the Optum, Claas put forward the Axion, and McCormick made the grade with its X8.634 VT-Drive. The JCB company, well-known for heavy-duty construction machines, has reached the pinnacle of tractor manufacturing this year, too, with its new Fastrac up for not just this award but also a sustainable accolade. Fendt’s 800 Series is also up for this double achievement of environmental responsibility and maximum power.
The mighty Case IH Quadtrac took home the last Tractor of the Year award; which finalist will be crowned top machine for 2026? 500 series. New Holland’s T7 is in the mix, along with Valtra’s Q265 and the Zetor 6170.
There are only four contenders for the three podium spots in the midpower tractor category. This is where the machines live that are most useful for Kiwi ag contractors, and hence, this is a section that’s under high scrutiny as the judging progresses. This year, Fendt follows up the success of its bigger 800 series with a finalist’s spot for the
contender in this category, which has made an impact in the Kiwi sales charts in recent years, too, with Kioti in the running with its HX1403 ATC-EU.
As well as these three categories spanning the kind of tractors forming the backbone of the farming fleet, there are also awards coming up in November for specialised tractors, of the sort working hard in orchards and vineyards. Then there’s the environmental award, which is contested by both JCB and Fendt this year. In fact, Fendt managed to get two of their tractors into the final five.
The other big section that will excite local dealerships is the utility tractor award, given to the machine that is the most useful as a Swiss army knife around the farm. Claas made the cut with its Axos 3.120, and Valtra were also shortlisted for the G125 Active. Landini represents Italy with the 6-125 RS, and there’s a new
Of growing importance in this age of AI and information technology, is the award for robot tractor of the year. New names in agricultural engineering, such as Agricobots and Agxceed, will once again amaze the judges with autonomous machines that point toward an automated future.
by Paul Campbell
Rural road decisions awaited
Rural contractors are awaiting some decisions on red tape surrounding the use of agricultural transport on rural roads from the Ministry for Regulation formed to clean up regulations to improve the country’s economic outfit — but expect it to take some time to happen.
The rules around rural transport have been a huge issue in the industry with compliant paperwork needed to counter non-compliance notices by Police Commercial Vehicles Investigation Units. Rural contractors busy with a harvest then need special exemption permits to continue time-imperative work.
Contractors say this is where a regulatory jungle starts. They have asked Minister for Regulation, David Seymour, to reduce a complex tangle of permits, weights, restrictions, requirements and supervision for agricultural vehicles, which need, at times, to travel at low speeds for short distances on local roads and state highways.
Rural Contractors NZ vice-president Daryl Thompson says his organisation took the issue to David Seymour and “we’ve since had a welcome announcement that the ag vehicle regulations are being reviewed but in the interim, members
are being knocked for six.” He says the current regulations are years out of date and don’t reflect the size of agricultural machinery now being used.
Contractor Jacob Holdaway says a tractor and trailer unit driven by one of his staff was pulled over in a back street en route to a local dairy farm after harvesting fodder beet nearby.
He says police took the vehicle to a local transport yard and weighed. Holdaway got a ticket, which said a tractor and trailer is only allowed to carry 28.8 tonnes, and his unit was carrying 39.7 tonnes. He’s been fined $12,150.
Holdaway says the trailer was not overloaded and if it had just been moving the fodder beet within a farm property it could have safely held another three to four tonnes.
Daryl Thompson says rural contractors face a maze of requirements to run agricultural machines on short road
distances, including transport licences and meeting Vehicle Dimension and Mass rules.
He says the government’s review will likely take many months and, in the interim, Rural Contractors NZ is asking for some discretion to be applied.
“We’ve been patient, followed the evolving process but we need action now. The fines are disproportionate, and we need NZTA and the government to urgently address this weight issue so our members can get on with their work for our nation’s farmers.”
Rural work
Post hole augers, Pole shed site works, Farm tracks, diggers ranging from 1.8T to 16T and truck and trailer units to supply any aggregates, at very competitive rates we are a one stop shop. We also have small skid steer machines for cleaning calf sheds etc!
Residential work
Driveways, House foundations, Shed / Garage site prep, Post hole boring. We have a range of diggers, skid steers and trucks to get all sorts of residential jobs done along with a very experienced operator. No jobs too big or too small!
New rules are needed for rural contracting
by Andy Bryenton
Kubota’s Osaka surprise
Kubota machinery corporation president Yuichi Kitao has reason to be
sized hydrogen fuel cell-powered tractor, which broke cover at the Hydrogen Energy Park
Kubota claimed the unveiling of the big orange and black machine to be a world first, fusing cutting-edge technologies together in a way that could prove to be a look into farming’s future. Hydrogen fuel cells have been touted as a transport revolution for decades, but have come to fruition in recent years as efficiency improves. Artificial Intelligence is the buzz term of the era, and making a tractor combining both is a powerful statement.
Kubota’s fuel cell machine has the stated aim of saving both operator time, labour and the planet’s ecosystem. The only output from the fuel cell process is water, and despite this the Kubota has an output equivalent to a 100-horsepower diesel. While it’s not a monster of the open fields, the fuel cell tractor is still a utility-sized 4.3 metres long, and was put through its paces in a controlled environment utilising equipment like a power harrow.
The new Kubota can be fuelled like an internal-combustion tractor, with two large hydrogen tanks on board giving
it added range, and no recharge downtime. However, the fuel cell system on board turns the hydrogen fuel into electricity, meaning that all the advantages of an EV tractor are still there, such as quiet running and no exhaust. There are two electric motors on board, as in many EV tractors; one to drive the wheels and one to drive implements.
This kind of hydrogen efficiency has been showcased before on other vehicles, including Toyota’s road-going Mirai passenger car. What sets Kubota’s Osaka offering ahead of the pack is that it parlays this long runtime and quiet efficiency into an AI advantage.
The big benefit of AI autonomy in agriculture is that many tasks out on the farm are repetitive and timeconsuming. An AI tractor can knock out this kind of row-by-row work in large chunks, but if it’s electrically powered, issues arise with recharge intervals. These have admittedly become longer
and
and longer as batteries get better, but hydrogen checkmates the whole problem. While Kubota has equipped its fuel cell tractor with a suite of sensors and the computer brains to take on farming tasks alone and dodge obstacles, there’s also the option to remotely pick up and put down control of the machine, either through a simulator rig anywhere that the Internet reaches, or through a closerange controller, like that used for a radiocontrolled car.
Autonomous
hydrogen-fuelled, the latest Kubota tractor is a vision of the future of farming
Privacy and pricing fuel ERUC debate
by Andy Bryenton
Electronic road user charges for all vehicles could come into effect as early as March 2026, with some groups welcoming the move as a boost in fairness, but others criticising the possibility of more governmental monitoring.
The cabinet has agreed to a suite of legislative changes, which would pave the way for the nation’s fleet of 3.5 million light vehicles to move to electronic road user charges, abolishing petrol tax at the pump. A move to electronically-monitored road user charges has been hailed as a way to ensure that EVs and other very efficient vehicles pay a fair share for the nation’s roading budget.
“It isn’t fair to have Kiwis who drive less and who can’t afford a fuel-efficient car paying more than people who can afford one and drive more often,” says Transport Minister Chris Bishop.
“This is a change that simply has to happen. The government has recognised reality and is getting on with the transition.”
With roading a huge issue in local body elections nationwide, the group advocating for councils has welcomed the move, indicating that monies collected from the proposed new regime would flow through to councils for road
maintenance and upgrades. “Councils are responsible for around 90% of New Zealand’s roading network. It’s a core part of local government’s infrastructure work; councils spend nearly $2.5 billion annually on maintaining local roads,” says Local Government New Zealand’s Neil Holdom.
“Minister Bishop has outlined a bold way forward for allocating the costs of transport infrastructure and this is to be commended. The sooner this can happen, the better. Local government has a strong interest in moving toward a more sustainable funding model for transport infrastructure.”
LGNZ’s position is that eRUC pricing could lead to more accurate data as well as a more transparent approach to funding. However, there have been concerns in the public about one of the necessities involved in setting up an eRUC scheme for all vehicles; privacy and data collection.
SHANNON BULK HAULAGE
“If they’re going to electronically monitor every vehicle, it’s the privacy issues around it,” said Automobile Association principal policy adviser Terry Collins. “Who wants to know where you are and when? That unlocks that whole issue around everything to do with phones, and the data. Who has it, and what do they want to do with it?”
Mr Bishop has rebutted these fears, saying that the Privacy Commissioner would be involved in planning. However, the indication that eRUC data may be collected by private third parties under government contract has stoked controversy, with many citizens vehemently opposed to having a ‘tracking device’ fitted to their car.
The government and LGNZ say that eRUC changes will lead to better roading outcomes, but opponents are concerned about privacy and monitoring overreach
