Northern Farming Lifestyles, May 2012

Northern

Farming Lifestyles

May 2012 edition

Phone: 09 439 6933 | Freephone: 0800 466 793 | Fax: 09 439 6930 | www.farminglifestyles.co.nz

Page 4–5

Page 8–9

Page 24

Growing persimmons

A taste of the Mediterranian

Accolades for Northland breeders

Kauri Lifestyle

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Page 10–11

tractors and machinery ACRES OF NEW & USED EQUIPMENT ON DISPLAY – CALL IN TO VIEW

A selection of the hundreds of used machines in stock:

Tortella TP15 Y flail Mulchers, 1.8m, 2.0m, 2.5m, 2.8m & 3.0m Auger Buckets, Holaris and Emily in stock Sam 3.25, 4 & 6 ton spreaders Side feed silage wagons 7 in stock Seeddrills big selection of 9 machines in stock Bale feeders, Hustler, DML, Duncan and more Abbey 9000L slurry tanker auto fill and pond stirrer Grader Blades 10 units in stock, some hydraulic Case MX90C Tractor 90hp, loader Claas Arion 620 Tractor,140hp, loader, 2300h John Deere 6300 tractor, 90hp, loader Massey Ferguson 5465 Tractor 130hp, FEL, 460h Hitachi EX 120 12ton digger, tilt bucket, thumb IHI 5.5ton digger Cat 3045 4.5ton digger Postdrivers - Fieldmaster 3 ram hydraulic & Donalds Cultivation Equipment - 19 rotaryhoes, 6 discs, 3 powerharrows, subsoilers, cultivators & more.

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2

May 2012

Northern Farming Lifestyles

Welcome

The Northern Farming Lifestyles is published with pride by NorthSouth Multi Media Ltd, a privately owned New Zealand company.

Phone: 09 439 6933 or 0800 466 793 • Fax: 09 439 6930 email: info@thelifestyler.co.nz • Postal address: PO Box 474, Dargaville Physical address: Lifestyler House, 107 River Road, Dargaville General Manager: Deb Wright (dw@thelifestyler.co.nz) editorial: Annette Lambly-Robinson Paul Campbell

Graphic Design: Dave Stevens Gavin Bainbridge Emily Stevens Jan Balcombe

advertising: Betty Willets

Production: Jenny Crundwell

Northern Farming Lifestyles Distribution area

Managing editor: allan Mortensen (am@thelifestyler.co.nz) accounts: Lesley Robinson (accounts@thelifestyler.co.nz) Website: www.farminglifestyles.co.nz

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We Northlanders could perhaps be forgiven for suggesting that the Mystery Creek National Field days are a curtainraiser for our own event early next year, but this would perhaps be a little presumptuous.

Many months apart, the two events are majors in their own right, and there will be plenty of interest in, and travel to, the Waikato for the June 13 to 16 rural exhibition.

We take a look in this issue at what’s on offer at National Field days, which is booked about to capacity with more than 1,000 exhibitors over 1,400 sites.

Back in the north, we continue our look at different facets of Kiwi agriculture with a visit to an orchard property with a difference. Persimmons are grown by Terrie and Lindsay Wells near Kamo.

Markets for the exotic fruit are set to expand into China and USA next year.

Elsewhere, near Wellsford, Greg Scopas runs an olive press. We step inside his processing plant as he harvests the essence of freshly-picked green, red and black olives.

All in the farming and growing sector know that financial uncertainty can be part of the game, and we have some advice on financial planning this month.

There is always the chance of the unexpected and creating a successful financial plan requires sound advice. This

extends to planning a will to ensure it’s both fair morally and legally, and there’s some good direction available in our pages.

Back on the land, Nick Boakes introduces us to the family firm, KD Spreaders, where he’s been at the wheel of large fert-trucks since his teenage years. Now 22 years later, he still enjoys doing a different job each day. Nick sits atop 330 horsepower when he goes to work.

And speaking of power on the property, elsewhere in this issue we test what our reviewer calls the ‘Swiss army knife’ of off roaders — the versatile UTV. He says the Yamaha Rhino has a ‘power-to-weight grunt like a locomotive on steroids’.

And we can’t pass June without Gypsy Week, when it’s all change in the dairy industry. It’s a chance to update and refresh yourself over the red tape and best practice in the movement of stock.

Finally — what’s the best dairy cow?

Northland’s Luke and Lyna Beehre are convinced Jersey cows are the highest performing dairy animal due to their efficient conversion of pasture to milk.

It’s all in the following pages.

Allan Mortensen Managing Editor

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Northland wool on the move After several years in development, a Northland-nurtured carpet company with farmer shareholders is spreading its wings The Northland Carpet Company was formed to take control of wool from the sheeps’ back through to the manufacture and sale of premium quality carpet, with customers being able to identify the farm gate it came through.

“We have found that the New Zealand flooring market is depressed,” says CEO, Murray Lynch.

“So our sights are now firmly set on the European, Asian and United States high end market — specifically we are looking to sell premium carpet, an exclusive New Zealand wool product to the top five per cent of high net worth individuals.

The carpets concerned roll out of the company’s production facilities to retail in the region of $350 per metre.

“We are not into the commercial and industrial market,” added Lynch.

The company is at present looking to raise $750,000 to a million dollars, mainly from small investments from the wider farming community, When Northern Farming Lifestyles spoke to Mr Lynch, he was heading to a round of investor appointments in Hawke’s Bay.

Murray Lynch of the Great New Zealand Wool Company

supervise the quality all the way along the line and keep track of each batch and where it came from.”

Mr Steed, from Kereru Station, and chief executive-designate Murray Lynch, are holding small meetings of interested farmers who will own a substantial interest in the company.

Northland carpet was the brainchild of Mr Lynch, who has wide experience as a wool buyer in Northland and beyond, with retail experience from his foundation of the Great New Zealand Wool Company which has a retail outlet in Whangarei.

The initial shareholders came through his industry contacts.

He said with the New Zealand market experiencing ‘carpet dumping’ the overseas top-end markets were an obvious choice. “We don’t see the product’s future as being in New Zealand.”

Northern Farming Lifestyles May 2012

Behind the scenes

Betty Willetts is passionate about her job with the Northern Farming Lifestyles and it shows… in the paper you’re holding right now she’s helped bring together news, views and vital services to keep Northland’s farmers up to the minute.

“The most rewarding times are when the paper receives positive feedback but what we’re really all about is helping rural businesses grow and giving the rural community a strong voice,” says Betty.

Betty really enjoys phoning and chatting with her clients and contacts, people who have become friends over the years.

“Northland is a great place to live, work and enjoy, and our farming community are at the heart of the region,” she says.

“Thank you all for reading and I promise many great editions to come.”

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Each batch of carpet the company produces carries a certificate of provenance, identifying the farmer, and the farm, where the wool was produced.

The company’s chairman Tangiteroria farmer, Bob Steed.

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May 2012

Northern Farming Lifestyles

Growing persimmons

by Annette Lambly-Robinson

- a family affair at

Valley View Orchards Markets for the orange sweet fleshed fruit with the crispness of an apple and a refreshing melon taste are set to expand into China and USA next year The bright orange fruit and autumn tonings of the trees are very pretty.

Robbie Rees has been working at Valley View Orchards for ten years

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ersimmons have been the mainstay crop grown by Northlanders Terrie and Lindsay Wells since the early 1980s.

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Sub –tropical fruit — persimmons were a relatively new commercial crop for New Zealand back then, and even today still remain a small commercial industry supporting global niche markets.

In the late 1980s, the nursery closed so the business could concentrate on fruit growing, with tamarillos and nashi being added into the mix of crops grown.

In 1979 the Wells purchased around 12.5 hectares of bare land on Apotu Rd near Kamo. The couple set up the

Over the years adjacent land has extended the orchard to around 40 ha.

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Northern Farming Lifestyles May 2012

5

D ion ION

nto oll



daughter Bronwyn and her husband thinning in February and harvesting in Lance Walters.

May and June,” said Duane. Hand picked The family trade as NTL Horticulture into 20 kilogram crates they are then with Duane managing the overall graded, packed and stored at — 0.6 business, Lindsay overseeing orchard degrees Celsius. The industry is largely development, Bronwyn, the orchard manager and the packhouse is the hands on managing domain of Terrie and Duane. They employ a full-time staff of six including an administrative manager in addition to the family members.

The acquisition of Hevila Pak in Maungatapere in 2008 provided the Wells with not only a bigger pack house, but the opportunity to retain Pickers ready to start the day. some staff all year round by Harvest traditional startes the second packing domestic and export Reward of Labour: Lindsay and Terrie Wells established the orchard more than 30 years ago week in May each year and last for around five weeks market avocado 12 months of the year. regulated by the market; fruit can be stored for up to 12 annually — a bit of a fall off from 10 years ago when it peaked “Both fruit have very similar facility weeks then once out of cold store they have a shelf life of at around 650 thousand trays. However the China and USA markets are expected to open to New Zealand from 2013. requirements so packing both fruits between 5-10 days. doubles the use of the packhouse,”said Packing season kicks off early May each year with up to 60 Valley View Orchard operates as a conventional orchard. nd WellDuane.

“We follow the industry recommended Integrated Pest causal staff employed in the orchard and packhouse during supply Fuyu is the main variety of persimmon Management pest and disease control programme that uses the harvest that lasts for four to five weeks. hland’sgrown in New Zealand. Trees are not predatory pests to control unwanted pests and soft chemical An additional 3,000 trees have recently been planted fully productive until they are 13-14 applications if needed,” says Duane. which will utilise the last of the effective land and there are Pruning is done in July and early August and again is time no immediate plans for future expansion. closedyears old. Although some fruit can be expected from three years with the first consuming. In the past it took 12 pruners, the equivalent of entrate After 20 years on the PIC Board, Lindsay recently retired s andcropping expected at around five to 42 ‘man weeks’ to prune. his position as chairman and now Duane is an executive mix ofseven years.

Nowadays, thanks to a training programme implemented member on the board.

Unlike other persimmon varieties, by Lindsay six years ago pruning has been reduced to six the fruit are non-astringent, sweet and d hasseedless. While the fruit and trees experienced pruners and 16 ‘man weeks’ — (which is around Cut me 40 ha. (particularly in autumn) are visually one month’s work for the six pruners). out!

Would you The main market for persimmon is currently Australia and ned inattractive, growing the unique crop is South East Asia. Around 300-400 thousand trays are exported like to wake up in a ne andvery labour intensive, due to the fact warm house this winter? the fruit need to be manually handled If your house was built before 1991, it probably is one of the reported at every stage of the process The fruit is 960,000 homes in New Zealand that does not have wall insulation. susceptible to frost — in 2009 an early 6 REASONS why now is a great time to insulate: frost ruined a potential 20,000 trays for • Within a matter of days you can transform your house into the Wells — a big hit. a cozy home. Stop cold draughts in your home.

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May 2012

Northern Farming Lifestyles

Northland Hunt

celebrates six decades

by Annette Lambly-Robinson

For sixty years Northland Hunt riders have ‘ridden to hounds’ across farms scattered from Maungaturoto to the Far North

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The field enjoying a hunt at Kai iwi Lakes

T

his season the hunt celebrates its 60th anniversary. Riders from all over the North Island attended its Hunt Week held in mid April — attracting fields of more than 130 riders at each of the four hunts held during the week A social at Maungakaramea concluded the ‘week’. The hunt’s birthday was also recognised by the Dargaville Racing Club who named one of the races at its recent Autumn Meet in its honour. Fittingly this race was won by jockey Craig Grylls whose mother Leigh was among those attending Northland’s Hunt Week.

A pony scurry was also held at the race meeting in recognition of the six decades of Northland hunting.

“Hunting is a great sport for people of all ages,” says Northland Hunt master Andrew Duff.

He should know — he’s been hunting for almost as many years as he has been riding — more than 40 years — and has been Northland’s master for 10 years.

Being master is an honorary position — Mr Duff who is a farmer, admits organising the 40 odd hunts each season can take up a bit of time, but nevertheless he enjoys his role.

As the master, it’s his job to guide the field. Not all riders jump, some prefer a quieter ride following the field at a slower pace and going through gates as opposed to jumping logs, ditches and fence.

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Northern Farming Lifestyles May 2012 “Kiwi hunting is very different to that of the English,” he says.

“While we do maintain the etiquette and continue to wear traditional clothing — designed for safety reasons — the culture is very different. It’s a familyorientated non competitive sport, for people from all walks of life — we have mums and dads and kids — it’s really a big group ride,” he said.

Traditional hunting, or riding to hounds as it was known, originated in Britain in the late 17th century as method of controlling the fox population.

By the early 19th century it had evolved into a ritual sport for the British gentry before being outlawed on 2005.

There are around 27 hunt clubs throughout New Zealand — the oldest being the Pakaranga Hunt which was formed in 1872 — 140 years ago.

The idea of forming the Northland Hunt was first mooted in 1946 by a group of like-minded people in the Bay of Islands, but it took another six years before it was finally formalised and eventually based in Whangarei.

Initially the hunt was funded by members taking out debentures. The original master was a Mr O’Donald and huntsman was Maurice Wright.

Nowadays, Northland Hunt has a property and hounds near Tangiteroria which the huntsman, Steven Lynch maintains and manages.

Membership keeps it alive says Mr Duff — currently there being around 65 senior members and 10 junior members.

The hunt is reliant on the good will of farmers who allow their properties to be used.

“Hunting gives you opportunity to ride across farm land that is not often

seen by the public and see some awesome scenery.” In many cases the same farms are hunted each year, but some hunting venues are being lost to subdivision or new landowners.

“Without the farmers we don’t have a sport,” says Mr Duff.

While some hunts do a ‘drag hunt’ where an artificial scent is for the hounds to follow — Northland hunts hare.

“Hare are incredibly clever; they are built to run up hills, regularly work in pairs and very often out-smart the pack,” says Mr Duff.

However he says the hunt is more Photo Limelight Photography about the ride, the adrenalin, the The hounds take a break under the watchful eye of huntsman Steven Lynch (red jacket) challenges and the camaraderie and the awesome scenery.

Hunting is not exclusive to rural riders — Northland currently has an even 50–50 split of urban and rural riders. Among 135 Lower Cameron St, Whangarei 0110 the riders is foundation member 88 year-old Lou Thompson Phone: 09 438 7371 (almost 89) who is joined by his wife Wilma. Although Mr Fax: 09 438 7374 E-mail: info@horse-world.co.nz Thompson did not ride in the hunts in those early foundation Visit our website: www.horse-world.co.nz years he and Wilma have not missed since.

“He’s still jumping a full wire (seven wire fence),” says SMARTRIDER BREAKAWAY STIRRUPS Mr Duff.

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Northern Farming Lifestyles

May 2012

A taste of

the Mediterranian

by Cliff Taylor

Autumn in the Mediterranean is traditionally the time for the olive harvest, and the same is increasingly true in Northland where growing olives is both a thriving industry and a popular hobby

I

t’s a busy time for Greg Scopas who runs an olive press in Hoteo North, near Wellsford. Surrounded by crates of freshly-picked green, red and black olives he has to shout to be heard above the sound of the press, crushing and whirling in the background. He moves ceaselessly, tipping more fruit into the washer, checking the outflow of the oil, emptying jerry cans of the green gold into the separater to remove excess water. As he works, people b a r n s s h e d s g a r a g e s 0 9

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“It’s a frantic couple of months,” he says, admitting he sometimes works until 10pm to get all the olives pressed.

“You have to get very well organised beforehand.”

Greg and his partner Kath moved up from Auckland to the Hoteo property with its 500 olive trees six years ago, mainly to continue his sausage-making business Salumeria Fontana. The machinery for the olive press was piled in a corner of the shed. Having seen so many olive trees cropping up throughout the region, Greg realised there was a need for a press.

Today people come from all over Northland, Auckland. and as far south as Whakatane to get their olives processed.

“They drive straight past other presses to come here,” he says proudly.

His customers range from a couple with one or two trees in their garden in Devonport, to a commercial grower in Mahurangi with 8000 trees. Greg won’t turn anyone away.

Olive growing has boomed in New Zealand in the past 20 years. Greg reckons there are now more than a million

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Northern Farming Lifestyles May 2012 olive trees in the country, and the oil is garnering international praise for its high quality and purity.

Of course, there are many people who simply want to get a taste of the Mediterranean and grow a few trees to produce their own oil, with no thought for making money. Greg’s pressing prices start at $1.50 a kilo and get cheaper as quantities increase.

“I could do with a bigger machine,” Neatly pruned olive trees on Greg Scopas’ Hoteo property he says. “Something about three times this size would be good. They cost about At some stage during the season Greg has $200,000 though. When I win Lotto I’ll get to pick his own olives — a task which just one.” keeps growing. The first year he picked 70kg.

His plant is not a ‘press’ in the traditional Last year it was 3.5 tonnes. Luckily he has sense. It works on centrifugal force, rather plenty of willing volunteers.

“We get the friends and family together. than grinding the olives and pressing out the We usually have a party and spend the night oil. Between harvests he strips the machine down and cleans it to prevent any bacteria here and have a bloody good meal and some contaminating the oil. “Every nut and bolt comes wine.” off,” he says. “It takes a lot of maintenance.

Despite the long hours, Greg clearly relishes And it’s been a bit of a learning curve.” the communal spirit that comes at harvest To anyone who has seen the ripe, largely red time. Whether it’s in the Mediterranean or and black olives picked in Europe, those going Northland, it’s about working hard together to into Greg’s press look surprisingly green. He produce something good. explains that Northland simply doesn’t have the “It’s a very cool thing to do,” he explains. fierce Mediterranean sunshine to turn the fruit “This is one of the best ingredients that money black and leaving them indefinitely on the trees can buy. It’s unadulterated and pure. I love the will just provide food for the birds. Anyway, he result. And the people are really cool. They’re says, the weather just contributes to the flavour doing it for pleasure and they’re all doing it for the same reason.” of New Zealand oil.

9

Common Muscle Problems The two most common chronic muscle problems are Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) and Fibromyalgia (FM).

Both FM and PMR are autoimmune diseases and result in muscle pain but that is about where the similarities stop. PMR mostly affects those over 60 and common symptoms are stiffness and pain commonly around the neck and shoulders especially in the mornings. Around 20% of people with PMR also develop Temporal Arteritis. This is caused inflammation of the major arteries which pass through the temple causing vision problems and even blindness.

The major medical therapy is the steroid prednisone which blocks the production of inflammatory cytokines usually with a rapid reduction in symptoms. Many recover in a year or so but others have this for an extended period or find that it recurs after a period of remission. People on statin medicines need to be aware that these can exacerbate PMR symptoms which is why I invariably add CoQ10 to those with PMR who take statins.

Nutritional therapy complements the effects of prednisone by reducing immune system production of inflammatory chemicals. We add a wide range of antioxidant and antiinflammatory compounds to assist energy production and to lower inflammation. Serious fatigue is a feature of PMR and increases in energy is often the first benefit people feel from nutritional therapy.

FM is a lot more complex. These are often referred to as FM syndromes as they involve other problems especially Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. There are relatively few medical treatment options but the most common are tri-cyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline taken in single evening doses to treat both pain and insomnia.

FM is more difficult to treat with nutritional therapy as it is not a simple inflammatory problem. It appears that muscle mitochondria are damaged by free radicals which impair muscle fibre function which reduces energy and causes pain (M. Cordero et al, 2010). I have found people get real benefits from intensive multi-antioxidant therapy including CoQ10, OPC, resveratrol and many others. I always add broad spectrum vitamin and minerals and often high dose MSM before bed to help with muscle oxygenation. Curiously, as with PMR people with FM often notice an improvement in energy before any reduction in pain. Give me a call if you need help.

John Arts is the founder of Abundant Health Ltd. You can contact John on 0800 423559 or email john@johnarts.co.nz.

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Environment makes hard work a pleasure

10

May 2012

Northern Farming Lifestyles

by Cliff Taylor

(Clockwise) an office with a view, andrea at work and home in Rapaki Bay, Mahinepua. Rapaki Bay, Mahinepua. animal Farm — Penny on her pony ayla, with Chico the parrot and ragdoll cat angel

Not many people can claim to work in an office metres from where the Pacific Ocean laps a secluded beach at the end of the lawn, but that‘s the view that Andrea Thackwray enjoys every day

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ndrea (Andy to her friends) works at her desk within sight and sound of the sea in Mahinepua, north of Kerikeri, and it’s a view she never tires of.

“It’s really lovely to have an office here, right on the water,” she says. “It’s a very positive working environment.”

Solo mum Andrea combines running a tourism website with caring for her four daughters, who range in age from 20 to eight years, and tending their stunningly picturesque 10-acre lifestyle block with its large vegetable gardens, stone fruit and citrus orchards, and olive grove. She and her daughters live alongside a range of animals including horses, chickens, rabbits, birds and ragdoll cats.

It appears to be an enviable existence, but it takes plenty of hard work to make it happen. The five Thackwray females all pitch in, whether it’s picking crops, fertilising the garden with seaweed and horse dung, or producing videos and photos for the website www.SeeAndDoNewZealand.co.nz

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which extols the virtues of Northland’s and New Zealand’s most beautiful destinations.

The two eldest girls contribute web design and video editing, while the younger ones get to hone their acting skills in front of the camera. Andrea also makes promotional videos for schools, corporates and local businesses. Working from home enables her to choose her own hours.

“I can work any time of the day or night,” she says. “The good thing about what we are doing is I can play with the kids during the day. I can take three or four hours off and go kayaking.”

Andrea started her business career in Auckland making fabric sculptures and kitchenware products.

She had a dozen staff working for her by the time she was 21.

Entrepreneurship seems to run in the family.

Eldest daughter Michelle has set up her own business breeding ragdoll kittens for sale, which has a waiting list of 30 people.

After moving to Northland Andrea worked as

Northern Farming Lifestyles May 2012

e

11

“I can work any time of the day or night,” she says. “The good thing about what we are doing is I can play with the kids during the day. I can take three or four hours off and go kayaking.”

Penny and Holly with dogs Jasper, Tipsy and Louie and Tigerlilly the ragdoll cat

a diving instructor. These days she still catches the odd crayfish to supplement the produce the family harvests from the property. “We haven’t had to buy any fruit or vegetables this year. We have strawberries every day, bowls and bowls of feijoas. I think persimmons will be next. And I must get the kids onto picking those olives.”

Living in a tiny place like Mahinepua

is not without its drawbacks. It’s a 35 minute drive to school in Kerikeri, something Andrea has to factor into her daily routine. The family’s biggest expense is petrol. But, typically, she puts a positive spin on it. “I have a lovely relationship with the kids because I spend so much time in the car with them — 35 minutes talking about their day.

Not everyone gets to do that.”

Her life may seem idyllic, but she has seen plenty of people who have moved to Northland seeking a laid-back lifestyle fall by the wayside. “A lot of people don’t make it work.

You have to have a bit of personal drive because you still have to work, like everybody else. But after 25 years here, I don’t really want to lie on the beach so much.”

She spends a lot of time visiting tourism operators in Northland and further

afield trying to sell the concept of the website and promotional DVDs. But, she stresses, it’s the advent of Broadband internet which has allowed her, and many others, to run a business from home.

Ultimately, it’s about achieving a balance between work and lifestyle, and

she only has to look out of her office window to remind herself of that.

“It’s stunning here. We go horse riding and kayaking. We get to see the stars and listen to the sea, and that’s something you don’t get when you live in town.”

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May 2012

Northern Farming Lifestyles

Hope is not a strategy…

so how can you manage financial risk effectively?

Life involves risk

Every time we buckle-in for a drive in our car, we face at least a faint possibility of something unexpected happening that could prevent us from reaching our intended destination. Putting on a seatbelt, following the road rules and controlling our driving speed are some of the many tools at our disposal to control the risks we face when we are behind the wheel.

Each of these risks has the potential to interfere with the success of a financial plan so, wherever possible, it is important that an appropriate risk management strategy is put in place to mitigate that risk. Risk management doesn’t necessarily mean buying an insurance policy, although this is often one of the options you can consider.

The same is true for financial planning.

Creating a successful financial plan requires more than just identifying someone’s goals and objectives and putting an investment plan in place to achieve those aims. That is important; but equally important is identifying and managing any risks that may prevent someone’s financial plan from arriving at its chosen destination.

In general, risks can be controlled, retained or transferred. Choosing to ignore significant risks, or hoping that an identified risk doesn’t eventuate, is usually not recommended. You only have to look at the plight of uninsured homeowners in the wake of the Christchurch earthquakes to be left in no doubt that “hope” is not an effective strategy.

Some of the common financial risks facing you on retirement include:

So, bearing in mind each of the above risk management options, let’s look again at some of those common financial risks we identified earlier.

• A loss of investment capital, as it cannot be replaced by future salaried earnings

• The prospect of health insurance eventually becoming unaffordable

In the case of the retirees who are unable to absorb periodic capital losses caused by fluctuating investment markets, a common solution will be to carefully control the level of investment risk taken.

For pre-retired people with dependent children, one common risk is the impact that an unforeseen loss of income would have on a family’s quality of life.

Longevity risk can also be effectively controlled by assessing the amount of income that can reasonably be generated by the available investment assets and

• Longevity risk (i.e. the risk of outliving your money)

establishing a sensible budget to live within this amount.

If health insurance eventually becomes too expensive and has to be given up, then an alternative approach might be to direct as much of the “saved” premium cost as possible into a designated bank account.

Over time, the build-up of funds in this account can be directed solely to the payment of future health expenses. This approach would be considered an example of a risk that is retained by the individual, with the full costs to be met by them.

In the case of the pre-retired couple, the unexpected loss of income of the main bread-winner might arise from the permanent loss of a highpaying job due to a major health event, or perhaps an untimely loss of life. In these cases the identified risks can often be successfully transferred to an insurance company offering major trauma and/or income replacement insurance, or life cover.

To summarise, the most important thing from a risk management perspective is that once you have identified and quantified a potential risk factor, you will usually have at least one option at

Sue Richards (left) and Leah Watson

your disposal to help mitigate the impact of this unwanted event occurring. If the potential risk is significant enough that it can seriously impact your future plans, then it’s generally not a good idea to just cross your fingers and hope for the best.

By implementing strategies to control, retain or transfer the different risks you have identified, you will ultimately be giving yourself the best possible chance of arriving intact at your chosen financial destination.

Call 09 407 7250 – Leah Watson and Sue Richards at Spicers

Leah Watson and Sue Richards are Authorised Financial Advisers with Spicers. If you have any questions about this column or would like to speak to them about your situation phone Leah or Sue on 09 407 7250.

This column provides general information and cannot be considered personalised financial advice. Leah and Sue are not liable for any loss suffered by those who follow the advice provided in this column. A disclosure statement is available on request, free of charge.

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Northern Farming Lifestyles May 2012

a day in the life of a spreader “Basically, I went to school to eat my lunch,” laughs Nick Boakes.

After all, he was fairly sure he’d land a job working for his father, in the family firm, KD Spreaders He was right. After riding with his dad for a couple of years, he received a special licence to drive a truck on the road at age seventeen. Twenty –two years later, he still looks forward to doing a different job each day. “You see different things, and you never know what will, crop up,” he says.

The truck Nick now drives, has a three hundred and thirty horsepower diesel engine (the average car has about 160 hp), a nine speed gearbox, and is a standard Mercedes production unit. Fitted with tractor tyres, and an average fuel consumption of just over one kilometre per litre.

Right now, Nick is busy spreading a lot of lime, which would normally have gone out over the summer months.

However, last summer was the one we didn’t have, and it was far too wet for safe or effective spreading. The trucks carry five or six tonnes of product, and

have a tare weight of nine tonnes, so it is too dangerous to attempt a steep grade, with saturated and slippery ground. “I had one time, in slippery conditions, and it took off sideways a hill.” Nick recalls, “So the best thing is to get your nose pointing down, if you can. I hit a lump on the side, which tipped out quite a bit of my load, and then after a while she came down again on four wheels.

It was a bit of a wakeup call. It was a good warning — a cheap warning.”

Nothing was wrecked. One of the first things Nick had to learn, for safety, and fuel efficiency, was not to drive up and down hills. “You make a steep paddock flat, by going round a hill, not up and down. The spreader trucks are designed

for working off road, so they have top quality oil pumps, and especially solid cab mounting, and suspension, and more ground clearance than a usual vehicle.” In an average season, Nick will spread about six thousand tonnes

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The trucks are fitted with a GPS tracker, which records exactly where the material has been spread. It means there is no unnecessary duplication, and if the truck has to leave the job for any reason, the driver knows exactly where to start again.

It also means that just the right amount of fertiliser is used. “A few years ago, you’d spread much more fertiliser than is needed. We save farmers quite a few thousand dollars, because we are laying at the right rate, and there is no charge for any left over at the end of the job.”

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to the rear at a set width. If the terrain is too steep to drive across, a blower pushes it out the side of the spreader.

The trucks get dusty and dry, and Nick says they try not to get water on them. “The fertiliser, and a lot of the other stuff we spread, can be corrosive, when mixed with water, and if you wash them every night and the truck is not really dirty, then the corrosion can really bite in.”

The other benefit is that you get to go out the back of farms, where very few people go. But wild pigs do. Fortunately the cab of the truck is air conditioned, so a slaughtered pig can be kept in good condition during the trip back to the depot. Although he’s cagey about exactly where he’s caught pigs, it’s probably a safe bet that information will be saved somewhere in Nick’s onboard GPS recorder.

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15

Trace element application methods Dr Bert Quin, fertiliser and soil fertility consultant

Plants have evolved nutrient uptake systems that most suit their particular environment Before we learned we could increase growth by applying organic manures and ultimately, manufactured fertiliser, plants had to make do largely with whatever they could scavenge with their roots from the soil, supplemented by deposits of excreta from grazing animals or, even less evenly, the decay of dead animals themselves. Plants can also take up nutrients in gaseous form — like N as ammonia gas — through their stomata, which are tiny holes in the leaves.

Some plants have developed smart ways of improving the availability of nutrients that are in the soil, such as excreting acid hydrogen ions from their roots, which replace calcium and other cations on clays, allowing them to be ‘swopped’ for the hydrogen. Others excrete chemicals that make existing soil acidity, particularly soluble aluminium, less toxic.

This is not to say however that plants cannot take up nutrients through their leaves. They are opportunists, like most living organisms.

The main difference in the design of leaves and roots is that the former have a layer of protective wax covering them, which is produced by the outer or cuticle layer of soils. This cuticle wax provides protection against excessive sunlight, dust and so on.

Cuticle wax is repellant to water, more or less depending on the plant type. Therefore products designed for foliar uptake often contain what is called an ‘adjutant’, chemicals designed to improve passage of the product through the cuticle.

Foliar uptake is most efficient in the morning or later afternoon, as the wax tends to be more water repellant during the hotter part of the day (to reduce water loss from inside the plant).

Generally, what nutrient gets taken up through the leaves does so within four hours of application. Most of the remainder falls or gets washed off the leaves through to the soil, although if what remains dried on the leaves gets rewetted by dew overnight, more can be absorbed the next morning.

There are limits to how much nutrient can be taken up through the leaves.

Excessive loadings on the leaves with soluble nutrients at any one time can cause ‘leaf burn’. However, plants can easily take up their requirements of most trace elements through the leaves, and a considerable proportion of fertiliser N

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With fertiliser N, foliar application as a solution or fluid (a high-solids liquid) is typically twice as efficient as is granular urea, provided a urease inhibitor such as NBPT is included if urea is the foliar-N source, or the nitrification inhibitor DCD if ammonium sulphate is being used.

Another advantage of foliar application of N is that additives such as trace elements, gibberellic acid and weedicides can easily be incorporated. In addition, major nutrient requirements (P.K.S) can be incorporated in a range of particle sizes, with the deliberate aim of ensuring that the majority falls through the leaf onto the soil, avoiding ‘leaf burn’.

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Northern

FARM FARM 4X4 F

Wheels May 2012

Preventing rural road deaths

by Denise Gunn

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You’re on the final stretch of a road trip and thinking ahead to what’s next on the agenda as you get closer to home.

Although the journey may just be a short drive to or from work, research shows that the majority of accidents occur closer to home and familiarity with the road lends a false sense of security Brake NZ spokesperson Caroline Perry said drivers may relax as they approach home and think they know the road.

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“But you can never know about the child who is about to run out into the road,” she said.

“The most important advice is to drive especially slowly and carefully as you approach home as this is also likely to be the place where people are about.”

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*all prices exclude GST USED MACHINERY CELLI 3.0M spike rotor rotary hoe, p/roller $18,500 NOW $17,995 TORTELLA T5-250 rotary hoe $12,500 NOW $11,750 TANCO 1060 Autowrap $7,885 NOW $6,500 BERTI Ecoforestal 1.6 mulcher $7,500 NOW $6,995 2002 MASCHIO U205C rotary hoe $7,100 NOW $7,000 MAXAM 3300 mower, c/w wilters $6,995 NOW $6,500 6M rake twin rotor trailed $5,500 NOW $2,500 YAMAHA GRIZZLY 450 $5,000 NOW $4,500 2009 NH BR740 round baler, only 18,000 bales $38,500 VICON RF130 bale pack baler/wrapper $36,500 TANCO 1300EH mounted bale wrapper $23,500 2010 KUHN FC243 mower conditioner $16,500 2003 Sam 4.75tonne tandem alex spreader $14,500 BUCKTON SD13 feedout wagon $11,700 KRONE AMD283, 7 disc mower $7,995 BEREND 9 leg sub soiler $5,000 KAWASAKI 650 quad bike $4,980 TORTELLA 1.8m mulcher mower $3,995 TIMAX Warlord 2m mulcher $2,500 SULKY DR 1150 twin spinner spreader $1,950

22 Rewa Rewa Road | 0800-326 987 | Email: boytd@norwood.co.nz Whangarei

Simon Millan – Whangarei sales@norwood.co.nz 027-618 3183

Graham Denize – Whangarei sales@norwood.co.nz 027-450 2757

John Field – Kaikohe sales@norwood.co.nz 027-497 9929

preventative perspective is to educate all road users, particularly drivers, in their responsibilities.

According to the ‘High-risk rural roads guide — September 2011’ produced by the New Zealand Transport Agency, rural road accidents accounted for 25 percent of all reported motor vehicle crashes on New Zealand roads between 20052009.

Miss Perry said the most common causes of vehicle accidents on rural roads are inappropriate speed on bends and overtaking where the driver can’t see what is coming ahead.

Fatigue is another significant risk factor when behind the steering wheel.

Driving as a job requirement or after a long stint at work is a problem experienced by a number of employees.

“Employers have an unspoken and often unrecognised moral responsibility for employees who drive to and from their workplace, as well as the much more

always wear a seatbelt — no matter how short the journey

widely recognised responsibility for their employees who drive as part of their job,” said Miss Perry.

“Employers should ensure that employees do not undertake work shifts that are so long that an employee is likely to be fatigued on the drive home.”

With winter approaching, Miss Perry said the number one advice is slow down and keep your distance.

“If conditions are really bad, don’t go.”

And always wear a seatbelt — no matter how short the journey.

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Kerikeri Mid North Honda, SH10, Waipapa, Ph 09 407 7736 Kaitaia Archibald Motors, 143 Commerce St, Ph 09 408 1900 Whangarei Planet Honda, Cnr Woods & Railway Rd, Ph 09 438 9780 Dargaville Dargaville Honda, Jervois St SH14, Ph 09 439 1089 Warkworth Honda Warkworth, 10 Morrison Drive, Ph 09 425 9498

Farm Wheels – Northern Farming Lifestyles May 2012

17

Fa R M W H e e L S

2012 Rhino charges ahead of rivals There are some situations in which a quad bike just won’t do. Sure, machines like Yamaha’s trusty Big Bear are the backbone of modern farming, taking the place of the horse in the Kiwi back blocks But when you need a little more grunt, a bigger load capacity and an actual seat for your officer (i.e. not just a flat rack for the dog) it’s time to consider the new ‘swiss army knife’ of off roaders… the versatile UTV. While the Big Bear 400 and its ilk are tough machines to beat, UTVs have become very popular in recent years for their blend of big vehicle versatility and small engine size. Though don’t let the 700ccs under the hood of the Yamaha Rhino fool you — this thing has power-to-weight grunt like a locomotive on steroids.

Of course the figures only tell half of the tale — a liquid cooled four valve OHC mill with fuel injection is the heart of the Rhino, but its clever engine mounting system has reduced vibration thanks to well engineered dampers and dual engine counter-balancers. The pistons themselves are Teflon slick to reduce

Yamaha have also added neat little details like a tipping back tray (capacity

Case IH JX90 4WD Rops with Loader only 500hrs �������������������������������������������� $48,000 Case IH JX1100U 4WD Cab with Pearson Loader only 700hrs ������������������� $74,000 Case IH JX80 4WD Rops with Loader ����� $39,000 Case IH 4240 4WD Cab with Loader ������� $33,000 Case IH CX70 4WD ROPS with Pearson Loader��������������������������������������� $33,000

new styling and models technology leaders 70hp to 396hp

wear and tear, coated with ceramic composite. And the cam chain has an automatic tensioner which means less noise and less maintenance.

Clever technology seems to have been the byword in the 2012 Rhino’s construction — there are features available on this machine which would not seem out of place on a $100,000 SUV. Indeed, many off roaders could learn a thing or two from the way the Rhino’s transmission clicks smoothly

Kawasaki 360 4WD Quad Bike ���������������� $3,000 2009 Duncan Eco-Seeder Drill �������������� $22,000 Alpego TR20 1�8m Mulcher���������������������� $4,000 ALL PRICES EXCLUDE GST

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— 181 kilos) with a single handle to upend the load, handy tie down points and a rubber tray mat.

You can tell they’ve asked people in the real world what they use day by day out on the land… it shows in the blend of rugged simplicity and bulletproof technology which make up the finished Rhino.

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18

May 2012 Northern

Farming Lifestyles – Farm Wheels

F a rm W h e e ls It’s Fieldays™ time again and we’ve turned back the years to offer you prices you haven’t seen for generations on a range of up-to-the-minute Suzuki farm vehicles! Including these…

FOR GENERATIONS SUZUKI PRODUCTS HAVE GONE HAND IN HAND WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF FARMING

DR200SE

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Farm Worker Flatdeck • • • • • •

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PACIFIC MOTOR GROUP WARKWORTH MOTORCYCLES KAIWAKA SUZUKI

WANGANUI. THE VERSATILE FARMWORKER 4X4 BECAME A COMMON SIGHT ON MANY NEW ZEALAND FARMS AND THE KINGQUAD AND TROJAN HAVE BECOME INDESPENSIBLE PARTNERS TO MANY FARMERS OVER THE INTERVENING YEARS.

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These offers are valid until 30 June 2012 or while stocks last. Prices are recommended retail, excluding GST. Models shown are indicative only and may differ to the actual sale stock. Savings shown include GST. Offers not available in conjunction with any other promotions.

We’re celebrating Fieldays™ 2012 with a special offer to all Suzuki customers...

30-ODD YEARS LATER WE STILL PRE-TEST OUR PRODUCTS ON NEW ZEALAND FARMS TO PROVE THEIR SUITABILITY AND WE REMAIN COMMITTED TO PROVIDING INNOVATIVE, STRONG AND PRACTICAL FARM VEHICLES. WWW.SUZUKI.CO.NZ 0800 SUZUKI

New Zealand’s biggest rural event is coming but you don’t have to leave town to get the greatest deals. Just pay 1/3 deposit on a new Suzuki before 30 June 2012 and you’ll pay no interest on the balance over 24 months. Choose from stylish Swift, spacious Splash, versatile SX4, luxury Kizashi or 4WD Grand Vitara. Enjoy the very best of Fieldays™ for yourself with the exceptional value and quality of a new Suzuki.

Look at these Real Value driveaway prices!

Swift 1.4 Hatch from $20,500 to $24,990 Kizashi 2.4 Sedan from $35,990 to $48,500 Splash 1.2 Hatch from $18,990 to $21,990 SX4 range from $25,990 to $31,990 Grand Vitara 4WD from $31,690 to $41,990

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“Ke

Farm Wheels – Northern Farming Lifestyles May 2012

19

Fa R M W H e e L S

Suzuki working hard for Kiwi farmers “Keep it light, build it tough, and make sure it’s simple to use and to maintain” In the tumult of World War Two, in the toughest battlefield conditions imaginable, the vehicle which spearheaded the allied advance was the small and rugged little Willys 4x4. A new concept at the time, its core principles are still good common sense for an off road vehicle — keep it light, build it tough, and make sure it’s simple to use and to maintain.

Years later Japanese auto maker Suzuki picked up on these engineering cues with a machine called (in the Kiwi market at least) the Samurai, and it proved to be an instant hit. Lighter than a Landrover but just as tough, the little 4x4 is still considered a benchmark in off-road performance. Its successors, the Suzuki Escudo and Jimny are often to be found in the hands of farmers, hunters and mud-slogging off-roaders to this day.

Like the best automotive designs, the little Samurai has stuck around, evolving into a specialised range of farm vehicles that are up to any task. The Suzuki Farm Worker family contains a range of variations on the robust, shortwheel-base off-roader, utilising tried and true engineering and some neat ideas to boost versatility around the farm.

Of course, the sector of the rural

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Northern market the Farm Worker is aiming for may already have an ATV quad. But this is above and beyond a quad bike, or even its beefier big brother the UTV 2-seater. The Farm Worker is a no-nonsense small truck, with the carrying capacity to match — either in wellside or flat deck configuration. Its 1.3 litre Suzuki engine provides ample power through a hi/lo ratio 4WD transmission system, with enough ground clearance and suspension to handle the rough stuff.

As an added bonus, even the base model (a steal at under 17k) comes with a proper roof, a fully enclosed cab, a heater, radio and wipers for when the weather packs in.

Based on sound principles, built to a tough and tested template, and ready to tackle those jobs where an ATV is too little and a full sized truck is overkill, the Farm Worker is just about the best help a farmer could ask for this winter.

Farming Lifestyles

Read the paper online www.farminglifestyles.co.nz

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20

May 2012

Northern Farming Lifestyles

GREAT VALUE

by Denise Gunn

On the move

With one of the biggest days on the dairy farming calendar coming up, Gypsy Day will see tens of thousands of dairy cattle on the move View our website www.cromptonengineering.co.nz

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Farming Lifestyles

Read the paper online www.farminglifestyles.co.nz

Although some herds will be trucked, others will be walked to new farms and it is essential that all stock are fit for travel, able to bear weight on all four limbs and be healthy enough to endure the stress of a journey.

As permits may be required when droving stock along public roads, it is advisable to contact your local council to verify the rules, regulations and guidelines relating to the correct procedure. This is also an ideal opportunity to check if there are any public events being held along your intended route which could disrupt your plans. Ensuring you have the requisite signs and enough people along the route is vital to assist with the smooth movement of your herd too.

Legislation from The Road Controlling Authority Forum’s ‘Best Practice Guidelines for Stock Crossings’ states ‘a person moving untethered animals from place to place along or across a road must exercise due care towards

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other road users, and must ensure that any disruption to traffic is minimised’.

The Road Controlling Authority Forum comprises of road controlling authorities including councils and the New Zealand Transport Authority (NZTA).

If you are heading further afield, Federated Farmers recommends standing stock off green-feed for four to six hours before trucking. The practice keeps effluent off the roads and stock will travel better and arrive cleaner.

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Northern Farming Lifestyles

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Nothin’ like new neighbours Gidday. Me again, and this Border Colly eye dog isn’t so happy eh?

Ya see, them peepil, tha Kenny’s, has moved out of tha Boss’s dairy unit over Ruawai. Sorri, shuda ixplained – they’s tha Boss’s sharemilkas, ‘an Boss sez ‘cos it’s tha end ofa seasin, they’s movin’ on ta a new sharemilkin’ contract ina Whykato.

“Ya see Dog,” Boss tole me. It is Gipsey Week, ‘an there’s a big changaroun’ ina industry. I gotta new sharemilker commin’ in a cupla weeks.”

Tah! – orlight for a Boss. But he duzzint realise that I bin slippin’ the colla tha lass few nites and havbin’ a little visit across tha river eh?

Tha sharemilkas got a mitey fine house dog eh? She’s a bit ofa spunky labradoor bitch an’ we bin hittin’ it off pritty well. Now, here I am juss Oh well, I’se just gonna getting’ ta know her – heh, heh – ‘er names Saffron keep me nose ta tha wind. I herd – an’ now Boss sez she’s gunna beggar orf. Won’t be that a Boss got sum new bloke’s same wivout her eh? joyned his Lodge wot has a stringa dogs ‘an they’s movin’ in ona old Wooley place upa valley. Mite slipa colla win they do, an’ take a look thrua fince. But I’ll sure miss that Saffron!

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Gypsy Week Matra fact, the Boss, me an’ ‘is girlfren Sharlene jumped ina ute and headed fer tha dairy block, cos Sharlene sed we had do a cleenup before a new sharemilkas arrive.

Well, they did werk asn’ I jus’ prowled aroun’ havin’ a reada the doggy emails wot we leave behin’ when we moves.

ter say welkome ta Ruawai.”

We shot inta that shop it Paparoa, ana Boss wuz drivin’ back outa town win he spotted ‘s mates truck atta Pap pub.

“Juss duck in fer wun wiv Ray,” he sid. Yeah, Right. Three hours lata, we back ona road home an’ Boss checksa cell phone. “Whoops,” he Picked up Saffron strait away eh. sed. “20 messijes from Sharlene.

She rickoned she gunna miss me Tha new sharemilkers is arrived.” too.

I new then Boss wood getta Yep, I admits it. After smellin’ rockit from Sharlene later, but that messij, I curled up ona ute trey first we hada drop offa milk and an’ had a bittuva sulk Wile Sharlene bred, an’ eggs an’ bakin fer tha cleaned upa house, and Boss did a sharemilkas. service ona herrinbone shed.

We turned up there drive, an’ Nex’ mornin, Sharlene came ova then it hit me lika tunna bricks. ta tha kennil an’ give the let-ova Ina kennils bya hayshed wuz a hole korn beef frum their dinna. Well, kollection of Borda Collys. And then ya kin only morn a lost mate fer so scent hit me. Theys orl ladies eh? long, so I dealt ta that, an’ was a Boss give me a pat then. bit mor brite-eyed an bushy tailed “Heh,heh. Didja reckin I wuzin’t wena Boss sed we wuz goin’ inta lookin’ out fer yer intrists win we town. picked a new sharemilkas Dog? gonna “We gotta new sharemilker Whadda Boss eh?

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May 2012

Northern Farming Lifestyles

Dairying

accolades for Northland breeders

by Annette Lambly-Robinson

A Northland farming family continues to play an important role in the genetics of the nation’s dairy herds Northland dairy farmers Luke and Lyna Beehre are convinced Jersey cows are the highest performing dairy animal due to their efficient conversion of pasture to milk.

The belief in the benefits of the jersey breed is somewhat of a family affair which has already been passed down four generations.

Bruce and Ngaire Cutforth (Lyna’s parents) established the Okura Jersey Stud 35 years ago at Whatitiri. The herd has moved to Hikurangi and on to Whakapara and then ten years ago the stud moved to a new property at Hukerenui, — Kowhai Properties — which operated as a partnership between Bruce and Ngaire, and Luke and Lyna.

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Bruce Cutforth (Lyna’s father) and Lyna Beehre pictured with Okura Iceaxe an LIC Daughter Proven Premier Sire for three years

In 2008 Luke and Lyna purchased the balance of the business. Luke works full time off farm as a National Bank Rural Manager based in Dargaville, and Lyna manages the farm with assistance from Elvis Roskam and Tina McLean.

They milk 265 cows off 100 hectare — 88ha effective on Kowhai Properties and 12ha of an adjacent 32 ha lease block.

All stock are wintered on the combined properties supplemented with silage, palm kernel and some home grown maize and turnips.

“This stocking rate is used to achieve the 1000kg/MS/ha, and just under 400 MS/cow. The property is a mix of alluvial flats, and clay and volcanic hills. A nice balance, while the hills can get dry in summer, they come into their own during a flood.” says Lyna.

The properties are at the top of the Hikurangi Swamp so usually manage to escape all but the worst of the flooding.

The couple are very proud of the pedigree herd and have retained the Okura prefix.

Notes from the shed with Mark With the payout McKewen high and interest low, it’s a really good time to

fix the things that are causing some grief around the Dairy.

Before you upgrade to new Milfos cup removers or a Milfos Variable Drive Vacuum System it would be sensible to evaluate things that could impact on your proposed upgrade.

A lot of people ask if Milfos is from Milfos Australasian Service Partner Sparkies generally do a great job, however, we regularly come across wiring of all some country.incorrectly.

Well… no Conference in Hamilton. sorts distant that hasforeign been installed itFor isn’t.

Milfoswe is see a Kiwi this pump conference webut recognised instance the company right cablewhich used on say,At a milk controller, still has just celebrated 25 years serving NZ bundled with everything else so it creates interference with the controller and going many achievements with awards bingo, a and slightly crazy controller.

Unlessallyou to know what toPartners look for itaround can be aNZ painful farmers more recently farmers Service and processthe to find as it looks like a faulty controller. around world.

Australia for excellence in Installation ThisFrom is important for all sorts of systems from pulsation controllers to across cup removers Customer Service a wide humble beginnings in Hamilton, and and the more sophisticated the system the more careful you have to be. We Milfos International is still here, now in a range of categories. recommend keeping data cables as far away from power as possible. purpose built factory just off Kahikatea Ofexist course, there canallbe only one We have all heard about stray voltage, yes it does and can cause sorts Drive in Hamilton.

Milfos employs Supreme Dealer for 2012: of issues, we have found a major source is the cable and terminations between over 120drives people staff in several Variable and with Motors.

The Winners, Tony and Jan McLaren countries fast. supplied with There is aand lot ofgrowing documentation variable drives with regard to thebased of McLarens Rural Services are cable to be used and metal glands for terminations etc, these are minimums and a A number of employees in the in Morrinsville, Waikato. They have good Sparky will follow manufacturer’s recommendations or better. If in doubt company have been here over fifteen a business founded on consistent get it checked. years and many more over five years, excellence in customer service and Don’t forget the effluent or water pump, same deal, and move the electric fence which credit to shed, the great family installations both locally and unit to is theaimplement they can be an superior interference nasty in the dairy. company it is. in challenging overseas projects.

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Dairying

“Dad has been a really successful breeder and has bred industry changing bulls for many years — the most significant being Okura Manhatten ,” said Lyna.

The herd breeding worth is (BW)152 and production worth also (PW)152.

This put Kowhai Properties among the top seven herds in New Zealand last year for breeding worth.

This year the farm has three bulls named in the Livestock Improvement Corporation’s premier sire teams.

Two daughter proven bulls Okura LFN Ivins Et and Okura RFS IceaxeET, who have been on the LIC jersey Daughter Proven Premier Sire team for three years since 2009, and also Okura LRT Integrity who was named on the 2011 DNA Proven Premier Sires team.

“We are proud of the presence of our bulls in the premier teams and continue to work towards a national breeding programme by supplying dairy bulls for

both AI breeding and natural matings.

“Breeding elite genetics for the New Zealand industry is a big focus for Kowhai Properties.” she said.

“Every year we sell 30, 15-month-old bulls to the local natural mating market,” said Lyna. They also annually raise around 100 heifer replacements, some of which are sold as yearlings along with 50 mixed age cows.

“Northland genetics are transferring really well and making significant improvements to the New Zealand dairy industry,” said Lyna Farming is a family affair at Kowhai Properties. Balancing farming, family and community involvement is part of our mix.

To add further to the Cuthforth breeding successes is Lyna’s brother Murray and his wife Jodine. They farm at Opuawhanga and have had a Kiwicross bull — Cutforths Lord Brian named in the premier team for the past two years.

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May 2012

Northern Farming Lifestyles

Dairying

Legal matters with Graham Day

Lost on estate litigation — the need to have a fair will

When planning a will you need to ensure that it is not only fair in your mind, but also fair from a legal point of view.

It is becoming increasingly common for large farming families to become fractured and divided after the death of a strong father figure.

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The problem is that you may wish your farm (or other business interests) to go to a particular person — perhaps your son who has helped you on the farm. While other children may not question the fairness of this during your lifetime it is becoming common for this perceived unfairness to be raised following death.

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emotional cost may be the hardest to bear. If one family member has a ‘big win’, with the others losing out, the family unit can break down and potentially never recover.

A recent case from the High Court in Wellington illustrates the problem. Kirby v Sims dealt with the estates of a late farming husband and wife. The couple had built up their farming interests and when the wife passed away there was over $3,000,000.00 of assets. The wife had not left ‘sufficient’ legacies to three children. The Court ordered $750,000.00 to be paid to one daughter, $600,000.00 to one son, and $350,000.00 (Australian dollars) to another son. Because those three children had ‘won’ the estate was also ordered to make a significant contribution to their legal fees (each received over $50,000.00 in costs).

The beneficiaries of the estate (nephews and nieces) were left seriously out of pocket.

The lesson to take from this case is that it is vital to have a legally fair will. You should take the time to carefully plan your estate matters, and discuss proposals with your solicitor. He or she will be able to advise you on whether a proposal will be considered fair, or if further provision is necessary to avoid Court. You may not be around to see the savings made by your family as a result, but there is no doubt they will greatly benefit.

Graham Day is a lawyer at Law North Limited in Kerikeri.

He can be contacted on 09 407 7099 or gad@ lawnorth.co.nz. Feedback and suggestions for future articles is appreciated.

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Northern Farming Lifestyles May 2012 of the Fonterra company. In addition he voiced support for differential payments to farmers based on transport costs and the need to be flexible in payments where Fonterra faced competition for milk supply.

Be my Guest

by Bill Guest, Operations Director, Farmers of New Zealand

Farmers demand control of Fonterra Parliament’s primary production select committee met recently to hear submissions on the proposed Dairy Industry Restructuring Act While the government describes the Dairy Industry Restructuring Amendment Bill as being enabling and Fonterra will make the final decision, many dairy farmers voiced major concerns overtrading amongst farmers and the Commerce Commission having oversight of the Fonterra price setting mechanism.

Many see this as being the introduction of draconian intervention whereby the government could intervene in public interest initiatives to control Fonterra’s milk price.

The future of New Zealand’s economy is closely tied to the performance of agriculture. Government intervention in the economy should be kept to a minimum.

This includes any legislation pertaining to the structure and operation of the Fonterra Dairy Co-operative and the company’s shareholders must retain the final say on any legislative changes.

While the detractors have argued Fonterra sets the domestic milk price

in New Zealand, the reality is that supermarkets stock a range of milk products, not only processed by Fonterra but also other New Zealand proprietary milk processors.

Other milk products such as cheese are manufactured by a number of independent processors and the prices for these products vary in range. The New Zealand housewife has a large selection to choose from, simply on price and supermarket mark-ups vary considerably.

If the government and the Commerce Commission were seen to be getting into the role of price setters this would be counter to free market policy.

The one thing about New Zealand dairy farmers is they have very long memories, and so they should have.

Some shareholders remain suspicious that the proposed stages are simply the first stages in the process of incorporation. They fear a loss of control and a risk to their long term profitability.

Fonterra is holding a special meeting of shareholders on 25 June to discuss the detail of the trading among farmers.

Sir Henry van der Heyden, in a letter to shareholders said that while the majority of shareholders are urging the Fonterra board to get on with it, a small group of shareholders had concerns and were vocal in New Zealand media causing the issue to split the shareholder base and it was not in the best interests of the co-op’s future.

He was critical that instead of the shareholders resolving the matter in the family, debate was now spilling into international media and damaging Fonterra’s reputation.

Farmers of New Zealand are disappointed that Sir Henry had admonished the farmers that have continued to voice their concern and that they should have kept it quiet within the family.

Well, Sir Henry, you may not be aware, that over the last hundred years there were many debates amongst farmers, and when Sir Walter Nash and the first Labour government formed the origins of the New Zealand Dairy Board not all farmers were happy about the then government’s proposed plans to legislate the sale of New Zealand dairy produce through the dairy co-operatives.

Sir Henry should exercise patience to allow for full discussion and disclosure of all information to enable Fonterra dairy farmer shareholders to confidently support change.

New Zealand dairy farmers today, understand and are fiercely loyal to the principles of cooperation as a means of working together to sell their products.

It is clear from comments made by Prime Minister Jon Key that he would like to see external investors involved to maximise Fonterra’s profit. This rings alarm bells with a substantial number of farmers who are suspicious of the government’s intentions.

Farmers of New Zealand pointed out to the primary production committee that in 2001, during the Select Committee process hearing, there was one submitter who is now a Fonterra board member who then openly advocated incorporation

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Northern Farming Lifestyles

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Photo: Stephen Barker/Barker Photography. ©NZ National Agricultural Fieldays.

Into the gate at Fieldays

Covering 40 hectares at Mystery Creek Events Centre, Fieldays was booked virtually to capacity by early May with exhibitors keen to be front and centre at Australasia’s biggest agribusiness show running for four days from June 13-16.

More than 1000 exhibitors are expected to fill up the 1400 sites.

Outdoor agricultural sites were already 99% booked by May and the soughtafter indoor Mystery Creek Pavilion was also fully subscribed. Organisers were

expecting to reach capacity well ahead of previous years.

Exhibitors can be confident of getting their products and services out to a wide audience. More than 117,000 people attended the event last year.

This year’s Premier Feature or central theme is ‘The Changing Face of Farming’, focussing on the various land ownership models and the change in farming approaches of New Zealanders. continued on page 31…

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nd the

al s

Northern Farming Lifestyles May 2012

National Fieldays

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13-16TH

JUNE 2012

Boonies is the brain child of Glen and Julia Sheaff — born out of the frustration of cold wet feet and banging around in an old pair of boots with a certain color band on the top Working and playing in the NZ outdoors has helped us put this range of boots together. We have taken our 10 years of footwear experience and the love of New Zealand, and put it into boots we know you will love. Warm, comfortable and hard wearing is just the start. Keep an eye out for our new Snowy Top lace-up water proof boot and our ultimate women’s farming boots. Who said you can’t have a boot that is functional and fashionable?

To find out more about Boonies click on to www.booniesfootwear. com or give us a call, we are happy to ship anywhere in New Zealand and offer freight free on all web purchases. We also stock a great range of stores around the country and always say support your local stores.

Please feel free too call past and say hi and try out our new range of boots at the coming Field Days — Site N1C just across from the plane.

Mineral Supplementation

Made Easy!

Convenient, waste free access to essential

 minerals and vitamins

Cattle Wintering Blocks – for dry cows

 on winter crops and at grass 

Available in 50kg tubs and 500kg blocks for large herds



Made in New Zealand for our conditions and requirements

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al

For more information about quality calf feeds contact SealesWinslow on 0800 00 77 66

,

z SW_Farming lifestyles ad June__180x265_0512_0512.indd 1

8/05/12 11:38 AM

30

May 2012

Northern Farming Lifestyles

Do you suffer from BACK or NECK PAIN?

A three and a half year medical study recently completed at the Regional Neuroscience Centre in Newcastle by one of the UK’s leading Neurosurgeons and authorities on back care, found that Inversion Therapy reduced the need for spinal surgery by 77% compared to 22% with traditional methods of treatment.

We will set the table at a slight angle of 20 degrees, which will gently take the pressure off your spine and relax you in a way you have never felt before.

Come along for a free stretch! You will love it!

After four years in NZ there are now enough people using the Teeter Hang-Ups to dispel the last of any doubts, these really do work. We have helped thousands of people get ongoing relief from their back pain, do yourself a favour, come along and try for yourself.

“We Sell the Best, and Fix the Rest”

Show Specials

If you suffer from back or neck pain, then come along to the National Fieldays and try the Teeter Hang-Ups Inversion Table.

Inversion therapy may help you with: • Reduce Back Pain • Relieve Stress • Stimulate circulation & Lymph Flow • Improve posture • Reduce Muscle Tension • Strengthen Ligaments • Increase Blood to the Brain • Reduce the effects of aging • Increase flexibility

TOP QUALITY WATERBLASTERS AND STEAM CLEANERS

COME AND SEE US AT SITE H68 SALES: CASTELLO, POWERWASH, COMET, INTERPUMP, PULICAR, HAWK and others

DAIRY SHED EQUIPMENT CLEANING SPECIALISTS

TESTIMONIAL Nanave Health Care was started nearly five years ago by Dave and Nancy Hare, Dave had suffered over twenty years of back pain from Degenerated Discs and after spending a considerable amount of time and money trying every form of help available, had basically given up and decided to just live with it. “To me surgery was never an option” he said “as long as I could still walk, there was always hope”, Dave tried every form of treatment and gimmick out there and on one of his overseas trips he discovered the Teeter Hang Ups. “The first time I tried it, the pain completely disappeared and was gone for 30 minutes, nothing had done that” he told me.

Dave never believed it would fix him, he just knew now he had a place to go every time he got sick of the pain, “it was my happy place” he told me.

PETROL UNITS (Italian) FROM $999.00 INC GST

To Dave’s surprise the more he used the table the longer the pain stayed away, until after nearly three months he was completely pain free, it was then he decided to introduce Teeter to New Zealand and Nanave Health care was born.

Over the years Nanave have helped thousands of people get ongoing relief from their pain and have seen amazing results in not only backs, but hips and knees, necks, posture, circulation, increased height, we have testimonials from people with over fifty years of back problems. They even have them in a number of schools in New Zealand for their special needs children, the blood to the brain helps these kids and the results have been encouraging. Nanave now has a division putting the Teeters into Industry, as Back Pain is one of the major causes of lost production.

HOT WATER UNITS FROM $1990.00

Come along for a free stretch, if you have completely given up, it could just surprise you.

0800 62 62 83 | www.inversionnz.co.nz

Lifestyle Marquee 10

AUCKLAND/WAIKATO (09) 525 1520 or 021 584 242 WELLINGTON (04) 293 3111 Fax 0800-4-KLEANT www.kleantech.co.nz • email mike@kleantech.co.nz

Quality, expertise, on-time delivery are some of the reasons why New Zealand dairy farmers choose us to build and design their dairy sheds, yards and backing gates.

We have more industry-specific expertise than your typical dairy shed builder, and from this stems our new approach to design and construction. We take into consideration every step of the milking process; from the moment the first cow steps onto the yard until the last cow leaves. Our experience and know-how of farm and pasture management, specialized farm building and quality construction techniques work together in unison to make your milking experience an easier, efficient process. Our expertise, quality workmanship and experience is what makes us the best.

G121

Visit us at the Mystery Creek Fieldays® site for your chance to meet the team and view the latest dairy shed and backing gate technology in action.

Or visit our website to view videos of products in action, download brochures or to contact us:

www.herdflow.com

Freephone: 0508 HERDFLOW (0508 437 335)

100% New Zealand Owned & Operated since 1982

Gold Big Plus 4000psi, 18L/min, 15hp motor

INC GST

Both Dave and Nancy will be attending the Show, Dave realised that had he not tried the Teeter Inversion Table for himself he would have never bought one, “and look what I would have missed out on” he told me, that is why Nanave do the shows, their aim is to get people themselves to experience the Teeter Hang-Ups, “we let the tables do the talking” he told me.

Nanave Health Care

SPARE PARTS FOR MOST MAKES & MODELS

Northern Farming Lifestyles May 2012

National Fieldays

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13-16TH

JUNE 2012

Photo: Stephen Barker/Barker Photography. ©NZ National Agricultural Fieldays.

Suzuki extreme air

Photo: Stephen Barker/Barker Photography. ©NZ National Agricultural Fieldays.

The NZ wool site — a tactile experience

…continued from page 28

The theme incorporates the shift from traditional family owned farms and the resulting effects on the rural landscape.

Situated at the centre of the Fieldays site, the Premier Feature exhibition will have its own dedicated seminar area.

Other areas of interest during Fieldays include the Ag Art Wear and Innovation competitions. The Ag Art Wear wearable arts competition features designers constructing creative and unique garments from rural products.

The Innovation Competition recognises backyard agricultural inventions or improvements which have the potential to improve farming practices. Participants can enter their developments in one of two categories, Invention or Equipment.

The Invention section of the competition attracts rural innovations which are not commercially produced but demonstrate ingenious ideas, whereas the Equipment section allows professionals and businesses to showcase new or improved rural products. Innovations can already be on the market for up to six months before Fieldays, with businesses treating the competition as a platform to launch their product to the industry.

A forum, held by experienced business leaders, will address the numerous start up challenges often faced by entrepreneurs.

The popular fencing competition, one of Fieldays original events, will be held again with the Golden Pliers and Silver Spade awards up for grabs. Tractor Pull competitions, logging demonstrations, extreme air displays, machinery and stock handling exhibitions offer plenty of outdoor action for visitors.

It’s not all business and machinery though. The popular Kiwi’s Best Marquee has been sold out for weeks with companies keen to showcase their food and beverage products. Celebrity chefs will be demonstrating ways to use exhibitors’ products in the Kiwi’s Best Kitchen Theatre, and visitors are unlikely to go hungry with 35 food vendors around the site.

One of the most popular exhibits returning this year is the Lifestyle Marquee — more than 2,000 square metres of

Unbeatable Global Coverage OmniSTAR is the market leader in providing real-time satellite delivered positioning solutions.

OmniSTAR’s reliable, accurate services benefit machine guidance and precision farming, providing: • Repeatable Positioning • Worldwide Coverage • Real-time Positioning On The Move

Love your chooks?

But hate being tied to daily feeding?

SEE US @ SITE NUMBER

D33

NATIONAL FIELDDAYS

Rodents and birds eating their food?

GRANDPA’S CHOOK FEEDERS

Photo: Jeff Brass/Think Photography. ©NZ National Agricultural Fieldays.

Business going well at Fieldays

exhibition space featuring all kinds of products and services which complement the rural lifestyle.

The NZ National Fieldays Society is a not-for-profit charitable organisation, run by a committee of volunteers and a team of more than 35 staff members working for weeks beforehand, with additional staff taken on during the event.

This year’s strategic partners and major sponsors are ANZ and the University of Waikato.

Mystery Creek Events Centre, is located in the heart of the Waikato, adjacent to Hamilton International Airport, close to State Highways 1 and 3 and just 10 minutes from Hamilton, Te Awamutu and Cambridge.

Rural Academy – Outdoor Pursuits Academy Are you looking for a change in Year 12/13 next year?

…are made to save you time and money by eliminating the need for daily feeding and stopping the significant amount of food lost to rats, mice and wild birds. This is the ideal feeder for 1-50 chooks, allowing you to enjoy the goodness of your own farm fresh eggs without attracting pests and their associated diseases.

GRANDPA’S FEEDERS developed and sold in New Zealand for over 12 years have become hugely popular and are now considered standard equipment for keeping poultry.

Automatic chook feeder



Feeder lid opens when chook stands on platform 

Strongly constructed with galvanised steel  Waterproof  Two sizes Large holds 18kg $250 + pp

Medium holds 9kg $195 + pp

SATISFACTION GUARANTEED OR MONEY BACK! For happier, healthier more productive chooks contact us.

Phone: 027 276 9794 • 027 497 6021• 07 552 5225 Email: mark@grandpasfeeders.com • Web: www.grandpasfeeders.co.nz Postal: Windsong Enterprises, 364 Whakamarama Rd, RD7 Tauranga 3179

vehicle protection and styling

National Agricultural Fieldays Site R30

Cromwell College, set in the heart of Central Otago, offers educational opportunities that will ensure an exciting end to your secondary schooling.

Our new Rural Academy is limited to 6 students who will: • Attend school and be part of the Central Lakes Trades Academy for one day per week, completing a National Certificate in the Primary Sector.

• Gain valuable work experience and qualifications on a Sunday programme on the diverse range of farming types operating in the Cromwell Basin.

Our Outdoor Pursuits Sunday Programme covers it all: • Sea kayaking, windsurfing, sailing, tramping, mountain biking, climbing and of course snowboarding and skiing all with skilled qualified instructors.

• The opportunity to gain valuable NCEA credits in outdoor leadership.

All students live in the Cromwell College Apartments and are part of our Life Skills Programme. This offers independent living for Year 12 and 13 students and provides an ideal stepping stone to further study or employment.

• The complex has 6 fully equipped flats, with private rooms, providing accommodation for 30 students.

• In addition we have a furnished common room, home theatre, computer room, laundry facilities as well as attractive and extensive grounds.

• Experienced adult supervisors live in the complex and assist students with preparing meals, purchasing food, laundry and cleaning.

Our College motto is Deserve Success and we encourage all of our students to strive for their personal best. Take up the challenge!

Visit our website www.cromwell.school.nz for more information.

FIELDAYS SITE N8

SteelTop Ute Canopy - Tonneau Cover - Headlight cover - Bonnet Guard - Side Steps - Ute Bedliner - Ute Bed Extender - Door Weathershield - Ute Hard Lid - Truck Air Deflectors - Truck Stoneguard - Exterior Sunvisor - Nudge Bar - Fog Lamp - Ratchet Rope - Side n Lock Tie Downs... & more!

Airplex Industries, 132 Portage Rd, Otahuhu, Auckland

0800 247753 - info@airplex.co.nz

May 2012  Northern

Farming Lifestyles

NOFIN TI AL CE

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Th Fe pro En as Th gro

Vie

WAIPU RIVER FRONT DAIRY

157 Nova Scotia Drive

Situated on the banks of the Waipu River, 1km from Waipu village and bordering the reserve at the majestic Oean Beach, this quality dairy unit is without comparison on the NZ market.

Totallingy 111ha, as a larger unit with a lease platform this property has a history of high production, in excess of 1,100kgms per ha/ 110,000 Fonterra shares will be sold with the property.

Featuring loam, sand and peaty clay soils the property is suitable as a winter milk proposition. Farm buildings include a feed pad, 40 cow ratary, implement sheds and complimented by two modest homes.

Auction 12.30pm, Tues 29th May 2012 (unless sold prior),

This is the rarest of opportunities for the astute investor, an opportunity without predent. Call for viewing times.

Bayleys Auction Room, Laurie Hall Lane, Whangarei

View phone for viewing times www.bayleys.co.nz/186392

Neil Sinclair

Tony Grindle

M 0800 293 620 B 09 430 0032 neil.sinclair@bayleys.co.nz

M 021 432 308 B 09 430 0032 tony.grindle@bayleys.co.nz

MACKYS REAL ESTATE LIMITED, BAYLEYS LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008.

MACKYS REAL ESTATE LIMITED, BAYLEYS LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008.

All companies within this composite are Members of Bayleys Realty Group

www.bayleys.co.nz

Northern Farming Lifestyles  May 2012

342HA LOWER NTHLND DAIRY FARM (IN RECEIVERSHIP)

Hukatere

208 Arapaoa Road

Tenders Close 1pm, Tues 19th June 2012

This well contoured and under performing property is offered for sale by way of receivership tender.

Featuring a milking platform in the vicinity of 280ha of approximately 317ha effective, the property has a previous peak production of 110,000kgms from 450 cows.

Enjoying a waterfront location, with maize country and generally of an easy contour the property is currently operated as a split calving operation.

The property includes a 45ashb dairy shed, full range of farm buildings and three homes. This property is poised for growth.

Bayleys, 25 Rathbone Street, Whangarei

View phone for viewing times www.bayleys.co.nz/186449

Tony Grindle M 021 432 308 B 09 430 0032 tony.grindle@bayleys.co.nz MACKYS REAL ESTATE LIMITED, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008.

Viewing is strictly by appointment.

www.bayleys.co.nz

All companies within this composite are Members of Bayleys Realty Group

33

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May 2012

Northern Farming Lifestyles

A bird’s eye view of farms Viewing farm properties from a helicopter would once have only been an option for the rich and famous buyer But now Northland Bayleys country property specialist, John Barnett, has done the hiring and flying on the buyers’ behalf, with a new video option to showcase rural properties.

“Videos of houses in the residential sector are not so new and I wanted to step outside the square and offer similar promotion options that make that whole farm assessment stage a lot simpler for potential buyers,” he says.

John Barnett — ready for another flight

He combines the skills of a video

producer with his appreciation of what farm buyers look for.

He now recommends that vendors utilise a helicopter overview video as part of their marketing campaign, easily accessed via the internet.

Mr Barnett said he was increasingly aware that the amount of time invested in a farm purchase itself represented significant additional investment, on top of the actual purchase price.

“Farmers are like everybody else. They are time starved, with busy operations, families to consider and staff to manage, yet have to give a new farm purchase the consideration and evaluation such a major investment demands.”

Farms demands significant a buyer

bring their own peculiar on time, often requiring travel to visit. Occasionally may then decide that the

property was not really what they were looking for.

“We are basically providing that first visit, without a potential purchaser having to leave the armchair.

“It is hard though to hide much from a chopper flying over and we aim to be very honest in the portrayal of wthe property.”

Overseas buyers are increasingly looking to New Zealand rural properties as a viable investment in uncertain times. Barnett believes the videos will play a big part in helping them to decide on a closer look.

The costs of offering these virtual tours varies between properties, based on the type of farm and where they are.

Mr Barnett says the rural sector is beginning to see strong level of buyer enquiry again. “If anything we are struggling for listings. The interest is there and good properties are in demand.

Northern Rural Marketplace Acraflex Dairy Wall Coatings New or existing walls

AFFCO LIVESTOCK Terry North

Smart new homes…

Able to be applied between milkings during summer months

Colourcrete Dairy Floor Resurfacing System Suitable for repairing damaged dairy floors or slippery areas Bruce Cameron 027 498 8412 / 09 235 8263

Anlyn Piling & Contracting Ltd Whangarei

Andy Payne

• Pile Driving & Drilling • Farm & Rural Bridges • Dams • Retaining Walls • Earthmoving • Drain Cleaning • House Sites • Races & Driveways • 12 T & 5 T Diggers • 6 Wheel Tipper • Bulldozer & Sheepsfoot We dig your dirt

027 543 7244

email: anlynpiling@value.net.nz After hours & Fax 09 436 2982

More Milk

Better Health

Less Metabolics

phone 0800 4 DOLOMITE 0800 436 566 Bio-Gro certified

Enquire today: 0800 Visit:

FAST BUILD | 0800 327 828

www.advancebuild.co.nz

ATS

Phone 09 439 5902

Mobile 027 484 1823 • Fax 09 439 1320

ProPerty Maintenance & rePair

Fences & Repairs • Kitchen/Bathroom Fit Outs Wet Wall Lining • Flooring Repairs • Decks • Water Blasting & Chemical Washes • Windows & Latches • Plus Much More

10% discount for senior citizens

No job small Ringtoo Andrew

Ph/fax 09 439 8628 Cell 027 455 7750

Implements irect for tractor attachments visit us online

*Post hole borers *Box Graders *3 pt Scoops *Concrete mixers *Wood Chippers DEMO VIDEOS AND MORE PH 0800 733 355

Free parking and we don’t run late

Neil Johnson P: (09) 438 4273

FARMERS – How clean is your water?

Would you drink the water out of your troughs?

Now is your best time to service your water system…

Give us a call and let’s check it out.

PHONE 09 438 9103 (24HRS) CALL FREE 0800 McQUINN

Galvanized Towbar BUY ONLINE $195 Inc GST

www.implementsdirect.co.nz

0800 627 8466 148 Lower Dent Street, Whangarei

www.mcquinnpumps.co.nz

Advanced asseptics@gmail.com Secondary 027 891 6852 Septics OFFGRID / Don’t want to use electricity No Power Secondary Septic System No need for extensive gravel beds

We can also UPGRADE old failing septic tanks improve your quality of effluent Use your outflow to water your garden.

Northern Farming Lifestyles May 2012

y were

hat first having

h from e aim ayal of

Northern Rural Marketplace Make Your Life easier! use our services now!

Northland Laser Drainage Ltd Neil Carter Trading as

• Pipe & Steel Supplies • LTNZ Approved Workshop • General, Agricultural & Structural Engineering • Mobile Welding Services • General Repairs & Maintenance • 2 Ton Gantry Crane • Plate Roller, Profile Cutter & Press Brake • de-CRAP-it®, Landplane®, Serious Incinerator® • Field Rollers, Water Carts • Kumara Gear

looking as a Barnett part in ook.

Newman Engineering (2004) LTD al tours Ph 09 439 5065 Dargaville on the www.newmanengineering.co.nz

ctor is buyer e are s there d.

35

Doug Wilson Manager Phone: Fax: Mobile: Email:

Specialising in Fertiliser and Metal cartage.

30 Tonne units available.

We cover your country!

Pumping Equipment

PORTABLE GENERATORS – DIESEL GENERATORS LOAD TRANSFER PANELS – DEEP SEA ELECTRONICS DISTRIBUTION BOARDS – DEWATERING PUMPS – PARTS & SERVICING www.powerplantsupplies.co.nz • sales@powerplantsupplies.co.nz Ph: 0800 800 837

All Services & Maintenance Available PO Box 1174, Whangarei Ph 09 434 7741 • Mobile 027 273 6865

1279 S/H 14, MAUNGATAPERE

MARGARET & JOHN BISHOP

NEW ZEALAND DISTRIBUTORS FOR Power Generation

09 430 2934 09 430 2936 0274 302 934 dougw@nrh.co.nz

Subsurface Drainage Specialists (Nth)

Trans-Tune Automotive Our Services

Windy Ridge ContRaCting Phone Colin 09 439 7266 ~ Mob 021 882 857 • Round Bale Hay and Silage • Medium Square Baling • Conventional Baling • Cultivation • Undersowing • 8 Tonne Tip Trailer • Mulching • Fencing

Mechanical Repairs New Car Servicing Petrol & Diesel Servicing Wheel Alignment Fault Diagnosis Brake & Suspension Repairs Fuel Injection Servicing

09 438 2892  147 Cameron St

Servicing the Kaipara and Whangarei Districts

NORTHERN FARMING CLASSIFIEDS Reach 33,300 Rural Homes — Phone 0800 466 793

CK

For Sale

For Sale

Wanted

Part Time Work

aTV MaTS from $89 – Come in & see us at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636 www.atvtyres.co.nz. Be quick offer ends 31/05/12.

SINTeReD BRaKe PADS – for MX & FarmBikes – from $39 at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636 www.atvtyres. co.nz.

WaNTeD. HUDSON & Terraplane Car parts. Any condition considered (mainly 34) Contact John by email: johnbowman@slingshot.co.nz. Also wanted, Morris 1000 Countryman (Traveler).

aTV SaFeTY HELMETS – from $119 accessories from $15. The law has changed! Have you got yours? Come & see us at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636 www.atvtyres.co.nz. Subject to availability.

WeeD eaTeRS & CHAINSAWS – GET 10% OFF STOCKED ITEMS at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636 www.atvtyres. co.nz. Be quick – offer ends 31/05/12.

Water Services

aVON SaLeS Reps Wanted. No startup costs.

Your own business, with free training and support. Have fun, meet people while you earn. Sales Managers also required. Must be self-motivated, goal setters. Phone/text: Tracey 09 436 2055 / 021 02377 508.

BaCK 2 WOOD Demolition. For your renovation needs. Servicing Northland – Auckland. Specialising in windows, doors and ranchsliders. Also kitchens, vanities, roofing and more. www.back2wood.co.nz.

Ph 09 408 7163.

20

BOaT TRaILeRS, full range to suit 12ft to 27ft boats, very competitive prices and immediate delivery for most models now. Call us to discuss free on 0800 162 500 Xpress Trailers.

BOX TRaILeRS, single and tandem axle trailers at very competitive prices, full range of sizes, 6x4 $1695, 7x4 $1895, 8x4 $2095, 8x5 tandem $2795, 10x5 tandem $3395, 10x6 tandem $3795 Ph 0800 162 500 Xpress trailers.

CHaIN & SPROCKET KITS DIRT OR FARM BIKE. SAVE 10% off RRP If you get them fitted at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636 www.atvtyres.co.nz. Be quick – offer ends 31/05/12.

CHICKeN MaNURe $20 per cubic metre plus freight. Supply, cart and can spread. Call Jeff 09 432 2444 or 027 476 5458.

…

S)

N 6

NeeD NeW ATV TYRES? GET 20% OFF RRP & FREE FITTING at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636 www.atvtyres. co.nz. Be quick – offer ends 31/05/12.

NeW YaMaHa FARM ATVs – 5.9% interest & 3 year warranty. Only at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi – phone 0800 963 636 & Yamaha MC Whangarei – phone 09 438 0804. Offer ends 31/05/12.

ATV FARM BIKE MX SPARES INTRODUCTORY OFFER. New Customers Receive 7.5% discount off RRP for all stocked items with this voucher at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636 www.atvtyres.co.nz. Be quick – offer ends 31/05/12. Conditions apply.

WINDMILL WaTeR pumps by Ferguson Windmills Company. Phone 09 412 8655. www.windmills.co.nz. sales@windmills.co.nz.

TaNK WaTeR TESTING. Detect ‘bad bugs’ in drinking water. Report gives results and recommendations.

Sterilisation of water/gutters/pipes and vacuum cleaning. Contact Simon on 422 9345 or at tankwater@xtra.co.nz.

Work Wanted

ATV SERVICE. Receive 10% discount off RRP for standard service parts* with this voucher when you get your ATV serviced at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636 www.atvtyres.co.nz. *Conditions apply, offer ends 31/05/12.

MX FARM BIKE SERVICE. Receive 7.5% discount off RRP for standard service parts* with this voucher when you get your MX / Farm Bike serviced at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636 www.atvtyres.co.nz. *Conditions apply, offer ends 31/05/12.

DON’T DRINK AND

CONCReTe PaDS, shed floors, feedout pads, house floors, driveways, footpaths, concrete cutting and drilling, retaining walls, paling fences, excavation work. Waipu, Ruakaka, Whangarei, Mangawhai & Langs Beach. Phone Mark 027 443 3130 or 09 432 0107.

FOR BULLDOZING, Roading, all general earthworks, subdivision work, house sites, landscaping, dams – 43years experience CALL AND TALK TO MICK on 0274 983 0806.

Services FaRM BRIDGeS Phone Pat now 0800 222 189, visit www.bridgeitnz.co.nz. Bridge It NZ Ltd. FURNITURe MOVING Around NZ or around the world.

Single items or house lots. Pro Packing, moving, insurance. Via trucks, containers, shared loads.

Ph 0800 496 753 www.worldmoving.co.nz.

“Experience & Advice You Can Trust”.

Farm Supplies HOP ONLINe AND CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S GIVEAWAYS. Plumb-it Kits with your water tank, chocolate bar with every order! Novaflo, Buteline, Tanks, Pipes, Valves, Bathroomware. PLUMBING SOLUTIONS Online. Value for money, Saving you time. www.nzplumbingsupplies.co.nz or 0800 428 376.

SHaDe MeSH FABRIC REDUNDANT STOCK. Mesh Tarpaulins, Bin Covers, PVC Tarps, Windbreak Screens, Shade Sails, Waterproof Shade, Custom Covers, Design & Build Shelters, BEST PRICES - Guaranteed Workmanship, FREE Quotes, Speedy Service phone NOW 0800 166 722 www.shadesystems.co.nz.

Travel eXPLORe NORFOLK ISLAND CUISINE. Escorted Foodies’ tour 15–22 July 2012. Incl airfares, accommodation, five dinners and other cuisinerelated activities. Skylark Tours 09 432 8065. www.skylarktours.co.nz.

GOVeRNOR’S CUP Golf Tournament Norfolk Island.

Escorted tour 4–11 November 2012. International Amateur Pairs Event. Incl airfares, accommodation, entry fees, green fees, gala events. Skylark Tours 09 432 8065. www.skylarktours.co.nz.

VaNUaTU & Mt Yasur Volcano. Escorted tour 11–18 August 2012. Incl airfares, accommodation, Mt Yasur excursion and great optional extras. Skylark Tours 09 432 8065. www.skylarktours.co.nz.

the paper online FRY! Read www.farminglifestyles.co.nz

36

May 2012 Northern

Farming Lifestyles

TOWS MORE, CARRIES MORE, SEATS THREE.

BUY ONE, GET A FREE OUTLAW 50.

Buy a new Polaris Ranger Diesel for $23,995 including GST, and get a free Polaris Outlaw 50 for the kids!

FREE Outlaw 50!

With its 24hp 904cc powerplant delivering 90% of peak torque at 1600rpm, plus an industry leading 56kmph top speed, Ranger Diesel is the hardest working diesel SxS’.

KG 680/907 904cc/24HP 3-CYLINDER ENGINE INDEPENDENT REAR SUSPENSION

ON-DEMAND TRUE ALL-WHEEL DRIVE

PAYLOAD / TOWING TIPPING DUMP BOX

ROUSE MOTORCYCLES

1 KING STREET, HIKURANGI. PH: 09 433 8471 OR 0800 96 36 36.

KUMEU CHAINSAW & MOWER SERVICES

377 STATE HIGHWAY 16, HUAPAI. PH (09) 412-8109.

www.polarisindustries.co.nz