Northern Farming Lifestyles, September 2013

Northern

Farming Lifestyles September 2013 Edition

33,400 copies DELIVERED FREE to every farm and rural delivery address from Albany to Cape Reinga

Celebrating 13 years of hard work, success and good wine!

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Alpacas a way of life for a creative small farming couple Pages 4–5

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SEPTEMBER 2013

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

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

Hard to get the staff

Phone: 09 439 6933 or 0800 466 793 • Fax: 09 439 6930

by Alan Wheatley

Email: info@thelifestyler.co.nz • Postal Address: PO Box 474, Dargaville Physical Address: Lifestyler House, 107 River Road, Dargaville General Manager: Deb Wright | 021 639 9633

Northern Farming Lifestyles Distribution area

Sales Director: Kelvin Green | kelving@nsmm.co.nz Editorial: Paul Campbell Andy Bryenton

Graphic Design: Gavin Bainbridge Jan Balcombe Paul Bakulich James Menzies Jessica Wright

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Accounts: Lesley Robinson | accounts@nsmm.co.nz Distribution: Laurie Willetts Website: www.farminglifestyles.co.nz

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It’s often difficult to find good rural workers, but in Northland it seems to come down to population density.

As a contrast, there were 25 dairy farm jobs advertised in Southland last week, but in Northland, there were no jobs directly advertised in farming, horticulture, fishing or forestry and just one rural job — and that was at a sawmill.

Maungaturoto based Northland Wood Products general manager, Brent Shepherd said he had talked to around eight applicants, but could not seem to get one to stay.

“There’s a bit of system abuse going on because it seems WINZ will provide start-up money for fuel and relocation. We’ll have someone start for a couple of days, get the funding and then disappear.”

Mr Shepherd said another problem was finding young people prepared to work in rural conditions.

“While our work is not especially tough, it’s outside, often in rain and a bit of mud, but it’s good honest work and a lot of young people just don’t want to work like that anymore.”

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Federated Farmers Northland provincial president, Roger Ludbrook says there may not be the number of jobs in Northland compared to the south and that is down to population density.

“Northland has more dense population centres and higher unemployment, but even so, the quality of applicant is still often a cause for concern.”

He says the ‘right’ workers are those that can work on their own, assume responsibility and some work ethic, qualities he says are increasingly hard to find.

SEPTIC TANK OWNERS How you can save money by keeping your septic system effective and healthy Septic tanks and multi-stage septic systems are delicately balanced environments. It does not take much to upset them. Common practice is to ignore the septic system until problems occur. Good and best economical practice is to always keep your septic system well maintained.

A malfunctioning septic system can become a health hazard.

When a system is not maintained or operated as a delicately balanced environment, problems occur.These problems include nasty odours, leach line blockages, untreated liquid rising to the surface, toilets gurgling and taking time to empty. At this stage your septic system is a serious health hazard to you and your children. Human waste produces faecal coliform bacteria, a source of viral and bacterial gastroenteritis as well as Hepatitis A and other diseases. Hepatitis can be a debilitating condition and cause long-term harm to children.

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By far the most cost effective solution is to pour one litre of Septi-Cure™ down each toilet bowl every six months.This simple action will help keep your system working at top efficiency by reducing solids and scum. Instead of emptying your tank frequently, the reduction in solids and scum saves you expensive pump out costs.Your irrigation field and leach lines will become clear of slimes and blockages so nature can handle the gradual seepage and evaporation for you. When this is happening your system will be

operating effectively and not endangering you or your family’s health.

What is Septi-Cure™ Septi-Cure™ is a concentrated mixture of selected naturally occurring microorganisms.

These harmless tiny organisms live and multiply by feeding on waste material. When introduced to your septic tank system, they go to work straight away digesting waste material, reducing solids and scum, allowing your septic system to start operating to its maximum efficiency. As they progress through to your irrigation field they feed on the slimes that prevent seepage and evaporation. When seepage and evaporation return to normal, you have reduced the risk of contaminating groundwater and the environment as well as reducing the chances of infection for you and your family. Eventually, they get washed out of the system and have to be replaced to continue their work.This is why you introduce SeptiCure™ to your septic system every six months for maximum efficiency.

A satisfied customer in Hamilton has been using Septi-Cure™ for three years.

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Bright science student helps farming

by Alan Wheatley

A Kerikeri High School student’s study into using duckweed to reduce nitrogen in farm dairy effluent runoff has earned him this year’s Northland Regional Council ‘Excellence Award’ at the Top Energy Far North Science and Technology Fair.

Jesse Prendergast’s project ‘CleaN2’ was one of 191 science fair entries involving 250 students from 14 Far North schools.

The science fair — which began in 1978 and organised by far north science teachers — was held over three days at the Turner Centre in Kerikeri.

The Northland Regional Council prize contributes $1,000 towards the cost of the winner’s university studies and must be used within three years.

Jesse, a Year 13 (seventh form) student from Kerikeri, plans to use his award in 2014 to study towards the four-year Bachelor of Engineering with honours ‘BE(Hons)’ in engineering science Kerikeri High School student Jesse Prendergast, winner of the 2013 Northland at the University of Auckland.

Regional Council’s ‘Excellence Award’ at the Jesse was also one of just 20 Top Energy Far North Science and Technology Fair to win a science fair gold award recognising outstanding achievement and the opportunity to be nominated for New Zealand’s annual Realise the Dream science event in December.

He says his 100 plus hours of work Rental Solutions was about improving New Zealand’s Made Easy environmental sustainability.

“Too much nitrogen is hazardous to waterways, causing significant health problems for New Zealand’s rivers and streams,” Jesse says. “It results in excessive weed growth causing huge oxygen fluctuations in the water.”

Jesse added nitrogen to water Are you looking for additional samples until levels matched those accommodation, or perhaps you are building or renovating a home, found in dairy farm effluent ponds. maybe you are saving for your first He then experimented with duckweed, home or simply need more space finding the small, free-floating plant for your visitors. Whatever the reason Highlander Accommodation has a which grows on the water’s surface, safe, warm, roomy and secure reduced nitrogen concentrations by up rental solution for your cabins and sleepout rental needs. You can even to 95 per cent. design the layout of your cabin to Jesse is now looking to extend his ensure you get exactly what you need. work through further on-farm research “Highlander Accommodation Simple, Safe, Secure” in preparation for his Realise the Dream FREEPHONE: 0800 226 227 nomination to be sent to Wellington www.highlanderaccommodation.co.nz early next month.

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Congratulations Home Show winners The Auckland Home Show is coming, and with Spring well and truly here there’s never been a better time to soak up some design inspiration and new ideas for your home.

That’s why we’re pleased to announce the winners of our Home Show giveaway — those lucky readers who were quick to answer our mystery question, and who have received double passes to New Zealand’s biggest home, design, living and decor expo.

The winners are: 1. Gabriella Donaldson 2. Louise Higgins 3. AJ Johnson-Morris 4. Vivienne Robinson 5. Mira Bosman

Congratulations — hope you enjoy the show and come back with some great ideas to implement in your home!

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SEPTEMBER 2013

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

ALPACAS A WAY OF LIFE

FOR A CREATIVE SMALL FARMING COUPLE

by Cynthia Matthews

realised in their farm based Christine and Steve Har t’s long term plans have been Alpacas are par t of the mix that business ‘Naturally Alpacas’ at Pakaraka. 94 Huacaya steers and raising heritage poultry. includes breeding miniature Highland cattle, fattening

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he Hart’s earlier careers were in cheffing and engineering (Steve hails from Yorkshire). Christine became interested in spinning around 1985 and initially her aim was to source and produce Alpaca wool. She had also seen Alpacas at Field Days and been

captivated! The Harts were living at New Plymouth when they bought their first animals — four pregnant females and another with a cria (baby Alpaca) at foot. “It’s often the way to begin a herd,� explains Steve. “Males can later be brought in for breeding.� In 2002

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Christine and Steve Hart at the farm

yarns. Steve’s nature and wildlife photography is also presented. Through the shop the large workroom is the venue for craft and art workshops and felting and dyeing.

Christine’s high end textile creations use Alpaca wool, but often also merino and silk. She is anticipating the World Alpaca conference in Hamilton in September where she will hold a trade stall.

Christine and Steve belong to the New Zealand Alpaca Association and say that here in Northland there is a strong local cluster group of owners. Over their 12 year involvement the Harts have seen increased membership and animals.

From the 1980s and the first Alpacas in New Zealand there are now around 18,000 in the country.

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Christine and Steve visited friends in the Bay of Islands and saw the land at Pakaraka for sale. They moved north with 15 Alpacas.

Each animal has its own personality.

Christine describes Alpacas as hardy and stoic. Weaning is at six months, when they are also haltered for leading which helps them to become accustomed to handling. Although not high maintenance, toe nails must be cut (they have leathery pads rather than hooves), young animals vaccinated and worming carried out. Sheep fencing is adequate and a pen essential. Steve shears the Alpacas in spring. Each animal produces three to five kilos of exceptionally soft and strong wool.

The Harts provide supplementary pellets and feed out in winter. Half of their 50 acres grows hay with some sold on. Alpacas stock at five to six per acre.

They will graze kikuyu and can go on to cattle paddocks, so work in well with the steers and the miniature Highlanders.

Christine and Steve’s Alpaca herd is building. They have four stud males.

Two were recently bought and Christine wants to introduce grey into the herd’s genetics. (Alpacas run to over 20 natural colours.) Animals can sell from around $1,000 to 30 or $50,000. “Sometimes people will look to buy a couple of [wether] males as pets. They’re herd animals so we encourage them to buy three as it makes for better dynamics,” Steve explains.

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SEPTEMBER 2013

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

ABOUT A MAN AND

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Kaitaia sheepdog trialist, Merv Cameron, has competed every year since 1959 and he is still going strong.

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he 70-year-old often ranks at the top of the Northland tables and he placed third in New Zealand in 1997. It was a highlight in his career and an achievement he couldn’t do without the help of his heading dog, Joan.

He began competing at 16 years old and estimates that he has entered in 1080 competitions over the 54 years he has been dog trialling.

A trophy well earned — the team of man and dog must work in perfect harmony to get results

Merv helped form the Mangonui Club, and has been secretary since it’s beginnings in 1959. It is one of around 170 clubs in the country, and he has enjoyed the cameraderie.

“There are many my age group who have been dog trialling for years and throughout the country we have formed friendships.”

Friendships formed also extend to the four legged variety and he is hard pressed to pick a favourite dog out of the numerous he has worked with.

“This is hard. Joan was something special. Both her parents were top New Zealand dogs and she always gave her best and achieved top results. King, Pine, Swede, Cap, and Fran were all

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for all your lifestyle insurance requirements It takes intensive training to make a champion — and lots of practice!

special along with the others I have and he has to fit dog trialling competed with. All had their own around work. To keep a personalities and working differences.” competitive edge, he has He says an animal’s happiness is devised a treadmill to keep crucial for getting the best results and his dogs in tip top shape. shows his dogs kindness from a young Three dogs at a time can age and trains them repetitively. fit, and for one hour a day One of the things that has kept the dogs go for a fast walk Merv in the sport is it’s unpredictable without leaving the property. nature. There are variables, such as “The treadmill which I From the age of 16 to the present day, misbehaving sheep, which is out of the don’t use as much now is Merv has enjoyed the rigours of competition triallist’s control. very good at getting a dog “The sport is one where you can be fit. Greyhounds and more recently first today and last tomorrow, and you racehorses use treadmills.”

He says he owes much of his success only get out of it what you put in.” to his wife, Gail.

Most of the top ® SHELTER “I would be lost contenders in dog STATION trialling are farmers who without her. She use their dogs to shift cares for my dogs “The sport is stock from paddock to when I’m not around one where you — rears any pups, and paddock, and trialling can be first puts the dogs on the is an extension of their walker treadmill.” farm work. today and last At 70 years old, By comparison, tomorrow, and he still competes Mer v lives on a you only get out and currently has six 1.6ha lifestyle block dogs. He also is a in Fairburn and has of it what you judge and has been 20 sheep to practise put in.”

6m 20’ Container Shelter involved in building a with. He also manages Cars, Boats, Trailers, Firewood. dog trial headquarters Kaitaia Triboard Mill, a L6m W6m H2m at Kaikohe. full time commitment, $2,550 + GST

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NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

SUCCESS AND GOOD WINE!

by Cynthia Matthews

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From lifestyle block to award winning vineyard, the Shackletons have spent a lot of effort and time in perfecting their vineyard, The Waitapu Estate Vineyard in Ahipara, Kaitaia.

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riginally from Waiuku, qualified pharmacist and expert wine grower, Eric Shakleton moved to Kaitaia MODELS in 1973 where he met his wife Sandra and has been there ever since, running and operating the Shackleton’s • Model SD-1825 – 1.6kms range (1 mile).

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Up to 6 • Model SD-800 Eric and Sandra purchased the lifestyle block in 1999 with rechargeable – 800metre range. waterproof the intention of building their home and creating the Waitapu • Tone and Vibration options. collar units and • 24 levels of correction.

Estate Vineyard. Waitapu comes from the Maori language remote units. • 3 year warranty. meaning ‘sacred water’.

Eric says the inspiration and idea came from his visit to GREAT VALUE Europe where he spent five years in France, Italy and Spain SD-1825 with 1 collar $640.00 enjoying the wine.

SD-800 with 1 collar $470.00 “I got to enjoy wine and always wanted something to Extra collars $245.00 do when I retire and thought that if I had a vineyard that I Prices include GST established it could be a great way of life.”

Sales@innotek.co.nz Eric then completed a diploma course in Viticulture with For a free brochure call the Eastern Institute of Technology in Hastings.

0800 872 546 Eric and Sandra started to establish their home www.innotek.co.nz and vineyard which started off as, “pugged up • Anti-bark training collars or Ph 0274 935 444 paddocks with holes,” said Eric but he said, “as • Containment systems soon as Sandra saw the view we had to buy it.”

They started planting some grapes in 2003, originally b a r n s s h e d s with Cabernet Sauvignon g a r a g e s and Chambourcin, both of www.theshedco.co.nz 0 9 4 2 0 4 4 4 1 which they replaced later with 1 9 5 R a p s o n R d R D 1 K a u k a p a k a p a other varieties.

We build to your requirements In 2007, Eric and Sandra - Any Size produced their first labelled All designs can WORKSHOPS GARAGES QUAKER BARNS wine — a Pinotage, which is a be converted to live in mix between a Pinot Noir and Best quality, Cinsault. This wine gained best price, best service a silver medal in the Upper CU S TO M B U I LT H O M E S FA R M S H E D S A M E R I CA N B A R N S North Island Wine Awards.

“The flavours in it are sort of a plummy, leathery, yeasty

flavour and the grape actually originated from South Africa,” says Eric.

Eric and Sandra were open for business and sold out of their first wine.

They specialise in red wines and especially Pinotage or Syrah, although they have made a Viogner Chardonnay 2010 which is Sandra’s favourite wine and she recommends having it with Thai or Chinese food.

Eric believes it takes a good five to seven years to get a good wine going and now that they have the basics he is preparing to do some fine tuning and to go for a gold medal.

Although the Shackletons are now winning awards and producing great wine, it hasn’t always been easy.

“Our biggest problem has been wind exposure with growth going slowly and especially when the drought hit,” said Eric.

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NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2013

the stream into tanks and to invest in a bore,” said Sandra.

Despite the downfalls, Eric and Sandra are now producing and distributing wine to their local restaurants and liquor stores.

“Our wine has three different soil types and five clones with different characteristics — some are more peppery or fruity and therefore our wine is unique to others in the area,” says Eric.

Their property of 12 acres and the nearby Waitapu stream is home to many native birds and in 2005 Eric and Sandra planted thousands of native trees to sustain the wildlife in the area.

Along with their vineyard and pharmacy, Eric and Sandra have

9

many other hobbies and community involvement activities that they are a part of such as the Justice of the Peace, the Hospice, St Johns ambulance, riding for the disabled, gun safari, and bringing computers to homes that would never be able to get access.

Eric and Sandra take pride in their vineyard where they sell and grow wine, olive oil, host weddings and events, and when asked for the special ingredient, Eric and Sandra replied, “Love and passion,” as their vineyard is all done in their spare time and with help from family and friends.

Eric says that the highlight of it all is, “producing a wine that other wine makers say is really good.”

Eric and Sandra with their vineyard sign

aitapu Estate Vineyard

Shop from the convenience of your home for our Online Wine & Olive Oil Sales Waitapu Estate, a truly stunning venue for a Northland wedding or any other special occasion! www.waitapuestate.co.nz or call Sandra/Eric on 09 409 4939 or email info@waitapuestate.co.nz Eric and Sandra in their cellar

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SEPTEMBER 2013

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

Rural Women

F or

10

ADVERTORIAL

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“Our focus is on painless dentistry.

We are a small clinic, with an all-female staff, our receptionist Jill from England, chairside assistant Carola from Germany and myself,” she said.

“The clinic is still evolving and growing with a view of attracting another dentist next year. As I had my elderly uncle and aunty living in Hihi, it had always been the plan to settle in and work as a dentist in Mangonui. I initially offered my services at a few local dentists as I knew they had long waiting lists but when they seemed to be happy with the status quo I decided that I only had one option and that was to open a dental practice from scratch.

“Since then the practice has grown tremendously and since locals previously had to wait for months for a dental appointment, urgent or otherwise, and travel out of the area, they have supported the service with great gusto. We have also become the regular dentist of a From left: Natalie Burkhardt, dentist; Jill Freeman, receptionist; Carola Frischauf, dental assistant

At Doubtless Bay Dental our focus is pain free Dentistry.

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good oral hygiene, brushing, flossing and regular check-ups, scales and cleans.

Dental education in a nutshell.

Aside from losing teeth, periodontal disease also has implications for heart attack, stroke, diabetes and premature delivery and low birth weight in newborns so it’s a double edged sword.

So if you need your choppers sorted come in and see us. How scary can a bunch of girls be?”

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Natalie admits that she also has “murder house” memories.

“Periodontal disease — gum disease — is to teeth what clogged arteries are to the heart; either debilitating or fatal!

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NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2013

Rural Women

Minerals are essential

For ADVERTORIAL

Minerals are inorganic, naturally occurring compounds. There are over 70 compounds classified as minerals of which about 20 are identified as essential for our bodies to function.

If we have inadequate mineral intake, or our mineral intake is out of balance, this can have disastrous effects on our health.

While food from the sea has excellent mineral balance, many of our soils are deficient in minerals. NZ soils contain very low levels of the cancer protecting trace mineral selenium. This is especially important for those in the South Island as the bread produced from Canterbury grain has low selenium. The NZ Government agency MedSafe (2103) commented “South Island bread is made predominantly with wheat grown locally in lowselenium soils.”

Some minerals have multiple functions and low levels can cause many problems. For example zinc is known to participate in over 300 enzymes. Low zinc levels can cause diverse problems from poor immune function, eye problems, hair loss and skin problems.

Many people take mineral supplements to maintain health or as part of a treatment programme for specific conditions. These can be single minerals, such as iron, iodine or calcium, small groups such as magnesium, calcium and potassium or as multi-mineral complexes.

My view is the single or small groups of minerals should only be given under professional guidance. For example single iron supplements should only be taken after blood tests show low iron levels. The same applies to iodine and some other minerals.

For most people, most of the time the best way to get minerals from supplements is as modest dose multi-mineral preparation. This will ensure you are getting the minerals in the correct form and correct balance. My preference is for chelated minerals whereby the mineral is bonded to amino acids (the building blocks of protein) to provide optimum absorption with the minimum risk of tummy upsets. Give me a call if you need further information.

John Arts (B.Soc.Sci, Dip Tch, Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a Nutritional Therapist and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. Contact John on 0800 423 559 or email john@johnarts. co.nz. For product information visit www.abundant.co.nz

Making life a little easier

by Alison Lemon, Director, PKF Poutsma Lemon Limited

My husband and I own a small farm and I am a partner in a chartered accounting practice in Kerikeri.

The farm’s book work has always been my responsibility, whilst my husband worries about whether it is going to rain and whatever other jobs need doing.

One of my favourite stories was when I was marshalling the invoices to take to our accountant, there was one I couldn’t find anywhere. So I naively asked my husband who replied without hesitation “it was on the dash of the truck and we were travelling down the road when it just flew out the window.”

I was not an accountant when we were married. But having to get everything ready for our accountant certainly was a catalyst in my becoming one.

A few years later we bought our first computer, a farm accounting programme and things started to change. We could now provide our accountant with a profit and loss account. We started to better understand our finances and we were able to prepare budgets.

As I became busier in my business and the demands of the family grew we moved away from the accounting program to BankLink. However, this year I changed again and I am now using Xero. Like BankLink, Xero gets the records directly from my bank accounts but on a daily basis. Because it is cloud based I can access it from home, from work or from my iPhone.

The other really great thing about Xero for me and for my clients is that I can also see how their business is tracking.

Another big plus is that if they want some help with anything I can fix it on the spot without long explanations.

As in farming, technology has made some jobs easier and

allowed us more time for other things.

Technology has made it easier for me to look after our farm’s financial accounts and to be relevant and helpful to my clients when they need it.

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SEPTEMBER 2013

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

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Northland forestry hits the heights

by Colin Patterson

Northland’s forestry industry is continuing to prosper during difficult economic times.

With advantages that include a log port at Marsden Point, local councils that are aware of the need for quality infrastructure, and high world demand for log products, the region’s forest owners are licking their lips in anticipation of continuing high returns.

Paul Slako started in forestry two decades ago. While running his electrical contracting business at Oakleigh he began looking for investment

opportunities that could provide a nest egg for his retirement. He heard about a 64-hectare forestry block near Mangonui that was up for sale, put in a bid and was successful.

Mr Slako says about half the property had been planted and he proceeded to plant the remainder. Twenty years later he is harvesting trees that had been planted before he became the owner, even though they have not reached maturity.

Plenty of industry experience Northland’s climate and soils pose many challenges to a forest manager, challenges that Northland Forest Managers (1995) Ltd (NFM) are well experienced in to achieve the growth of productive timberlands.

NFM is an independent forest management company established in 1990. The company specialises in the management of plantation forests from establishment through to harvest, including marketing.

NFM manages a forest estate of approximately 27,000 hectares in a geographic range from the Hokianga Harbour to Whitianga for a number of clients. NFM is locally owned and run by Nick Kingsford who has worked

both within New Zealand’s forest industry and internationally over the past 25 years. The company has staff located in Kerikeri, Dargaville and the Coromandel Peninsula. The team offers clients the combined benefit of industry experience exceeding 150 years.

In 2013 NFM will harvest, transport and market approximately 990,000m3 of timber on behalf of its clients.

NFM is committed to ensuring strong financial returns for its clients, while meeting best practice industry, safety and environmental objectives.

“Price has a lot to do with it,” says Mr Slako.

“It’s better to take a good price at 25 years then wait for the full 30 years. Prices have generally been good in the last 12 months.”

Costs for harvesting and transporting the logs to Marsden Point have gone up, as have the costs pruning trees during their lifetime. But Logging operations are a frequent sight around Northland current returns make the investment worthwhile, although the industry is experiencing good times. future is difficult to forecast.

“Recent returns are well above the “The timing of markets is fairly unpredictable. Costs never come down.

But markets do.”

Although he went into forestry to achieve a retirement income, Mr Slako is not quite in a position to quit working.

“I’m still working but I’m easing off.”

Northland Forest Products director Gary Leslie says the region’s timber

Please contact NFM if you are seeking the services of a professional forest manager for your timberland resource.

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Your Forestry Management Experts

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call the

www.northlandforestmanagers.co.nz

Northland and Coromandel’s climate and soils pose many challenges to a forest manager; challenges that Northland Forest Managers are well experienced in handling.

A family business with 40 years experience, we purchase, harvest and market private forests (specialising in private Radiata Pine woodlots).

We supply quality logs to mills and for export.

NFM offers a complete forest management service to commercial forest owners and growers which includes; • Silviculture • Planning • Forest Development

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long-term average. Harvesting is strong with record volumes being removed in Northland.”

Mr Leslie says councils are cooperative in responding to the industry’s needs for improved infrastructure, such as roads and bridges.

While hesitant to engage in crystalball gazing, Mr Leslie says forestry in Northland is definitely a go-ahead industry. “The outlook for timber in Northland is very positive because of sustainable management and good weather which means above-average tree growth. Global demand for wood products is not likely to diminish.”

Keith Cochrane 0274 952 552 p 09 432 3750 e cll@xtra.co.nz

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NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2013

Fishing, Hunting

13

Outdoors

Anglers get ready to hit the water Spring is here, and for many anglers in the North that means it’s time to look ahead to a full season of fishing action out there on the water.

Of course, many of the more ‘hard core’ fishos in the region will have been snagging, tagging or bagging the big ones all throughout winter, but for the casual angler the lure of balmy weather and crystal-clear seas is a big part of the fun — along with the perfect catch, of course!

Along with the usual preparations — the new lines of lures, jigs and baits to peruse, the latest technology in rod and reel design to appraise — comes the perennial call from those in the know to put safety first, especially in the unforgiving waters of coastal New Zealand.

Coast Guard, maritime rescue services and the police all urge anglers to check the condition of their equipment, and its legality, before even leaving home for a day of fishing.

This means checking that trailers are safe and in warrant, that boats are kitted out with emergency oars, flares, life jackets and locator systems (such as digital GPS beacons), and that a careful eye is kept on the fickle weather conditions.

Even when fishing off the rocks, safety is paramount — there’s no point in catching the fish of a lifetime if that lifetime ends too soon. Boaties are

Wildcat Fishing Ahipara NZ Ph: 09 4094 623 Andy: 0274 471138 or E: wildcat1@xtra.co.nz

Fish the West Coast with Wildcat Fishing Launching each morning off the 90 Mile Beach at Ahipara A day either bottom or game fishing.

Fishing tackle, bait and ice supplied

also encouraged to have their motors tested and overhauled after a long winter sitting idle, as a breakdown far from shore can ruin any fishing trip.

Angling rates up there with watching the All Blacks trounce Australia as the classic Kiwi pastime, but far too many lives are lost each year due to what seem to be ‘rookie’ mistakes and oversights. Take a little extra care in preparing your expedition, and you’ll never run the risk of becoming another statistic.

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Experience the real Middle-earth with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, the bucolic setting for The Shire that featured in the Peter Jackson directed films, The Lord of the Rings. The set has now been permanently rebuilt for the The Hobbit.

Your guide will escort you through the ten acre site recounting fascinating details of how the Hobbiton Movie Set was created.

Hobbit holes, The Green Dragon Inn, The Mill and other structures can be viewed and you will see how this beautiful piece of Waikato farmland was transformed into The Shire from Middle-earth.

501 Buckland Rd, Hinuera, Matamata P: 07 888 1505 W: www.hobbitontours.com E: office@hobbitontours.com

14

SEPTEMBER 2013

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

Composting is Nature’s Way Every living organism consumes nutrients and creates waste. To transform Compost is Nature’s Way of turning waste back to nutrients and to complete this cycle, nature uses the processes of decomposition and evaporation.

As is often the case, nature seems to be doing business in the best way possible.

That’s why Sun-Mar toilets are designed not only to harness these natural processes, but to optimise and accelerate them.

Toilet waste is over 90% water content. This can be evaporated and carried back to the atmosphere through the vent system. The small amount of remaining material is recycled into a useful fertilising soil.

Wherever there is a poorly working septic system, a Sun-Mar can take care of the toilet waste; where there is an outhouse we offer the luxury of an indoor facility; and where there is no toilet at all, a Sun-Mar provides the right

BioLoo Composting toilets

environmental choice. Sun-Mar units are economical, quick to install and easy to use.

Because no chemicals and no septic systems are used, fragile environments can be protected. A Sun-Mar composting unit is an environmentally healthy choice for recycling human waste.

The Sun-Mar system produces no pollutants, while collecting nutrients.

With a Sun-Mar, recycling is made easy!

Odour Free As well as ensuring an aerobic breakdown in the Bio-drum, Sun-Mar ensures an odour free environment by engineering the airflow within the unit to maintain a partial vacuum at all times. Air is being drawn in either by a fan (or on non-electric units by the vent chimney) over the evaporating chamber and up the vent stack. Not only does this evaporate excess liquid, but by continuously pulling air in we ensure no smell escapes from the unit.

Evaporation is assisted on electric units by a thermostatically controlled heater in a sealed compartment underneath the evaporating chamber.

A clean, green, pollution-free, affordable alternative

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Could Northland lose its Port as a result of Local Government Reform?

Under the Local Government Amendment Act 2012 the Local Government Commission last week held further meetings throughout Northland to discuss the future of local government.

Under the new procedures anyone is able to apply for reorganisation, so long as they can demonstrate there is community support, identify the rationale for change and explain how the proposed approach promotes good local government.

The Commissioners must work with communities in deciding which options promote good local government in a particular area. The Commission’s preferred option will then be turned into a draft proposal and issued for consultation of councils and communities.

The new Act also introduces widesweeping powers for Mayors who will have the power to appoint deputy mayors, establish council committees and appoint chairpersons.

The Local Government Commission stated last week during their meetings that they do not see the break up of Northland’s port as being in the best interests of Northland.

Northlanders could be shocked if they knew that the 50/50 shareholding ownership agreement between the Northland Port Corporation and the Port of Tauranga could be at risk. In most commercial partnership agreements any change in ownership of significance does have consequences.

I believe any dissolution of the Northland Regional Council, who holds a majority shareholding in publicly listed Northland Port Corporation, who in turn owns fifty percent of Northport Limited, would need to be handled very carefully.

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The reason we are having this debate at all is due to successive Northland councils simply not working in the best interests of the ratepayers.

If we had good leadership and governance, councils would be sharing services and achieving economies of scale without any need

for expensive structural reforms.

The Local Government Commission has stated that it must consider an enhanced status quo of Northland local government, before travelling down the path of other major reform and could be the most cost effective solution with least risk.

The Northland Port Corporation has its origins from the Whangarei Harbour Board which merged with other harbour authorities in Northland in September 1965 to form the Northland Harbour Board under the chairmanship of the late Ralph Trimmer, which commenced the establishment of Port facilities that enabled the oil refinery, a glassworks and a fertiliser works to be built and this lead to the development of a large number of subsidiary industries.

In 1963 Ralph Trimmer’s then Whangarei Harbour Board prepared a case study for submission to Comalco Aluminium in Sydney, Australia showing it would be a better economic and social proposition if it established its smelter at Marsden Point rather than at Bluff.

The Board sent its chairman Ralph Trimmer and its General Manager to Sydney to meet with Comalco’s manager who reported that the Whangarei board’s study appeared to be very sound. The problem was that although there had been no legal contract binding the company to where its smelter should be established, Comalco felt there was a moral obligation not to alter the arrangements that it had made with the then New Zealand government to build the smelter at Bluff.

Northland must retain its current ownership status of its Northland port. We must demand full disclosure as to whether there are any risks and ramifications that would cause Northland to lose its ownership share of the Northland Port through Northland local government reform.

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Wheels NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2013

Northern

FARM

15

Versatile machine treads lightly for versatility

by Andy Bryenton

Kubota tractors are a common sight out among the farms and fields of rural New Zealand — as a brand, the big orange machines have made substantial inroads, winning over farmers with their combination of power, reliability and very sharp pricing.

The recent expansion of the Kubota range into the realm of higher horsepower has seen them come up against some major players in the global market, but Kubota are unfazed — instead, they have responded to the challenge with innovative new ideas. A great example is their clever new Power Krawler, a tractor which looks unorthodox but which delivers surprising results.

We’re not used to tracked vehicles being light on their feet, but the unique half-track arrangement of the Power Krawler is designed to do just that — spread the load of the tractor and adjust its centre of gravity, evenly distributing its weight over a larger area. It’s the

same idea as wearing snowshoes in the arctic — more contact with the ground means less chance to sink in!

This is more important than some may first imagine in a farming context.

But one of the hot topics on any farm is soil health, and soil health is adversely affected by compaction.

The Power Krawler’s wide rubber tracks give the whole machine a level of flotation, riding lightly over the soil to eliminate wheel ruts and cut down on compaction. The aerated substrate of the soil (which many farmers spend big money tilling and fertilising) remains unharmed.

The other big benefit of a tracked setup is a longer wheelbase — just the ticket for traversing rugged terrain.

By extending the amount of drive surface on the ground, and not having to extend the actual chassis of the machine, Kubota have made the Power Krawler extremely competent in conditions which would challenge FROM

10,999

$

other tractors. While the Power Krawler represents the edge of the envelope in Kubota’s range, it’s a good example of the smart engineering which has gone into their entire range.

And with this kind of innovative mindset, there are only going to be more big orange tractors out there in the fields in years to come.

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16

SEPTEMBER 2013

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

FA R M W H E E L S

Positive news on Otaika Valley Road

ROAD SAFETY

by Alan Wheatley

Maungatapere’s Otaika Valley road is under the spotlight with local residents holding a public meeting because of what they say are safety issues due to high traffic volumes and poor construction.

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Whangarei’s acting mayor Phil Halse has invited three residents from the meeting to travel to Whangarei to present their case in preparation for the matter to be formally tabled in council.

More than 80 people packed into the Maungatapere Hall to express unhappiness at the state of the road, following on-going accidents and safety issues, not only due to the high traffic volume, but also sub-standard construction and maintenance.

Chairman of the meeting, Mike Eagles said he was gratified to see a large contingent from the Whangarei District Council, the police, plus the local trucking and forestry industries.

“It got a bit heated at times but overall it was a good useful meeting and the people who needed to hear our concerns heard them and better still, they responded with more positivity than we perhaps expected.”

The meeting heard concerns over the state of the narrow, winding road, a lack of safe shoulders and the need for better, larger signage and a lower speed limit of 60kph from Maungatapere

The scene of the most recent accident on Otaika Valley Road

to state highway one. Mr Eagles said while the heavy truck industry generally carried out its business responsibly, the sheer volume of traffic on the road meant it now needed urgent attention.

“We’re very grateful for the acting mayor’s invitation to bring the matters to council as this means we are that much

closer to getting some real action.”

Phil Halse told the meeting the district council will do ‘whatever it takes’ to reduce heavy vehicle accidents on the narrow road, and he says while money for roading is short, work will be prioritised on improving the camber and corners.

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NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2013

17

FA R M W H E E L S

Performance from the farm to the grid Offroad racer Ben Thomasen could have hung up his boots when a serious crash put an end to his motocross career.

But the successful competitive driver is nothing if not a fighter — he grabbed the chance to race again with both hands, graduating to a souped-up Subaru rally car and then to pride of place with Polaris NZ’s racing team.

The machine he has recently driven to victory in the muddy, slippery and downright challenging Gwavas 200 Enduro is a Polaris RZR XP 900 — a sideby-side two seater similar, cosmetically at least, to the Ranger UTVs which are gaining popularity on local farms.

The same combo of grunt, clever chassis setup, long-travel independent suspension and serious grip makes the RZR he pilots through the rough stuff a real contender, beating every other vehicle both in its own class and across the board at the Gwavas. That’s no mean feat.

Ben took out not just first on the day and first in class, but also outright victory in the entire North Island series, monstering huge 700 horsepower trophy trucks and thundering V8s with his light, quick 900cc machine.

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“The muddy conditions at the Gwavas 200 were perfectly suited to the RZR,” says Ben. “The highlight for me was that not only is the RZR a very economical and enjoyable way of Racing, but the 900cc, 88 hp engine in the Polaris RZR provided plenty of power — to not only beat the expensive and high horsepower vehicles we race against, but we lapped them too!”

After 15 years of motocross racing, the need for speed is still very much a part of this talented racer’s life.

He may be on four wheels rather than two now, and sporting the catch phrase ‘with age, get a cage’, but with performance like this there’s no way you’ll catch Ben sitting on the sidelines any time soon.

And Polaris, now sitting at the top of the NZ offroad table, are garnering plenty of attention for their farming models with big wins on the racing circuit.

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SEPTEMBER 2013

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

Dairying

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by Alan Wheatley

While the potentially fatal clostridium botulinum scare that tore through the New Zealand dairy industry has eased in the light of a false alarm, the issue will not yet disappear.

That’s the view of Federated Farmers Food Safety spokesperson, Dr William Rolleston who says in reality, the real damage control is now just beginning.

“The issue won’t go away by itself and both Fonterra and the government have to act positively, because bad news travels fast and we must let regulators in our client countries know the good news.”

Dr Rolleston said despite the massive ripple effect, Fonterra did the right thing when they issued the product notification alert.

“The risk was only ever just that, but they had to weigh up between saying nothing and taking an extraordinary punt that could have literally cost them their industry or come out, own up and notify.”

Dr Rolleston said while Fonterra’s action was the right one, the message perhaps did not come out as well as it could have.

“It’s not like CSI on TV — there are just no neat, definitive answers to problems like this and there will be — and should be — questions around the reasoning and the timing.”

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“This is a chance to enhance the reputation of New Zealand primary food exports industry by demonstrating how seriously we take quality.

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NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2013

19

Dairying HOOF TRIMMING SERVICES, EQUIPMENT & TRAINING

Hoof Print with Fred Hoekstra

Proactive practices prevent problems The season is well on the way now and the weather has been great so far, and because of that we certainly have not had the lameness issues we experienced at this time last year.

However, improving the hoof health of a cow is a constant goal. Even with weather like this we know that lame cows will come. A lot of the severity of the lameness depends on management style, herd size, milk production level and diet. There are a number of things you can do to minimise lameness and the cost of lameness.

Foot baths can be used but are only helpful for infectious diseases.

Fortunately we don’t have many of these diseases in New Zealand, even though it appears that Digital Dermatitis may be on the increase and we need to be on the lookout for this disease. However, apart from this and Foot Rot, we are close to being infectious disease-free here.

Foot baths should not be used for hardening the hooves as that will not minimise lameness. Another option is preventative hoof trimming. Hooves that are not functioning well are more

likely to induce lameness. But what does that mean?

The principle of a well functioning hoof is that the weight is spread as evenly as possible over the medial and lateral claws. That means that the pressure on every cm² of both claws on the sole is basically the same. This can be achieved by making the dorsal wall as short as possible (7.5cm) so that the weight goes more towards the toes. Then the claws need to be at an equal height, at least as close as possible.

This way the excess weight of the bigger claw (usually the lateral claw) is transferred to the smaller claw (usually the medial claw). By doing this the effect of laminitis will be less severe and therefore the cow will be more mobile.

Obviously preventative trimming is best done before the cows go lame.

Overseas, farmers usually trim their

Preventative trimming being done on-farm by Veehof

cows’ feet twice a year. They need to because their cows spend many hours on concrete in their barns.

Because New Zealand farming is usually pasture based, our cows spend a lot more time on soft ground which means that the claw height difference has a less diverse effect because the softer ground will shape more around the hooves.

Nevertheless our cows are spending a substantial amount of time on hard surfaces when they walk to and from the cow shed and stand in the holding yard, and this is when the overloading of the lateral claw is most likely to occur.

Because of this, preventative trimming also has an effective role to play (as was shown to be the case in a trial we conducted a couple of years ago) and should be included as part of our best farming practices in NZ as well.

Instead of trimming all the cows twice a year like our overseas counterpart’s do, we can get away with trimming a smaller portion of the herd. It is not necessary

to trim the whole herd, just the ones with long toes and uneven claws. But in saying that, we do have a number of clients who do trim all their cows every year with very good results.

A healthy herd starts with preventative action. It adds to pride and enjoyment in your herd and your achievements.

20

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

SEPTEMBER 2013

Livestock

A dog’s tail…

Orl ina family ona farm

We was parked up aginst that water tank ona ridge above tha farmhouse an tuckin’ inter the sanniches that Boss’s gerlfrend Sharlene had cut frum last nites roast, wen hoo shood show up but that cat.

Long-time readas of this kolumn no who I meen, eh?

Hermin the Jermin. Sharlene’s bluddy big ginja cat.

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Dunno why its corled that, but probly cos it’s a nasty bugga. It wanded in frum a neighbors place which was a sharemilka that moved on in Jipsy Week an’ left it behind. No bluddy wonda too.

That Hermin swiped me across me nose wen I hada sniff, an’ I’ve kept me distanse ever sinse. We gotta sort of stand-off tho. He duzzint bother me if I duzzint bother him eh?

Well, it was a blimmin serprise to have Hermin out here ina paddicks, so I give him a careful eye, and kept shearin’ Boss’s sanniches.

Hermin juss sat ona top of a strainer post and started lickin’ his pores.

Then Boss notissed. “Wot ya doin’ out here Cat,” he sed. Hermin jus’ looked at him. Boss sort looked thortful

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for a minnit, then he got his sell fone off tha bag ona quad, and pressed the mumba for tha homested. It rang and rang, “C’mon Dog,” seda Boss. Sharlene’s sposed to be home bakin a cake and watchin’ afta Sophie. That’s Boss’s new dorter. We jumped ona quad, and Boss raced down that cattil race Well, we got ta tha house, an’ Boss rusht ina kitchen, An’ their wuz Sharlene an’ Mum, wot’s bin stayin’ lookin’ afta the house. Mum wuz lookin a bit seady, an’ Boss kneeled ona floor an’ grabb’d her hands.

“Mum’ hada bitava fall ina kitchen.

Doc ame and sez she’s OK, nothing ta wurry about,” sed Sharlene.

Well, readas, Boss made a cuppatee for everone, and then Sharlene sed “how didja no something wuz wrong?”

Boss looked at me, an’ then we both lookt at Hermin, He wuz sittin’ ona windersill, lickin’ his pores agin.

“Blowed if I no,” seda Boss. “Wen I saw that Cat ina paddock, I figgered sumpin’ was rong eh? It’s like tha Cat come ta get me an’ Billy.”

Well, nex’ thing Sharlene gotta creem froma frij, an ole’ Hermin was havin’ a good feed.

Then later, wen I wuz finishin’ offa a muttin bone, he came over ta me kennil, and blow me, he rubbed up agin me side lika ole mate and shared me tucker.

Boss was there an’ he rekined maybe it was a sighn of new samd secks marriages the guvmint’s lettin’ happened.

“Blowed if I no,” seda Boss.

Well, I reckin I rekin Boss an’ Sharlene havin’ Sophy has changed thing’s here ona farm.

Evin Hermin’s becomin’ part ofa famly. She’s a wunda eh?

See ya — Billy

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NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2013

Livestock

Wool Perspective From Rob Cochrane GM, Procurement, PGG Wrightson Wool

Wool market remains healthy The first few weeks of the new wool selling season showed that the market is currently in good health, reflecting limited wool supply and a relatively empty pipeline from farm to end market.

With reasonably favourable weather conditions experienced during July, shearers were up with the play by early August after being in ‘catch-up’ mode in late June, wool flows into stores were steady and wool quality was very good.

Traditional pre-lamb shorn clips, especially from Otago and Southland but also a number from the Canterbury region did not appear to have been too adversely affected by the June snow falls, many looked to have clipped good ‘per-head’ weights and, generally, yield tests were higher than normal.

The majority of wool on offer was very well grown and displayed good washing colour, allowing the exporting fraternity complete confidence when making their purchasing decisions.

All South Island auctions held during July and into mid-August drew wide spread support from manufacturers across the globe with prices remaining firm, when compared to those ruling at the close of the 2012/13 season at the end of June, despite an also firm Kiwi dollar, and high percentage clearances of the vast range of types on offer was achieved.

PGG Wrightson auctioneers were extremely pleased with the results of the early season auctions considering the range of types offered within their catalogues which included a few Merino lots at each sale, a good range of Halfbred and Corriedale types, plus a

very good line up of top quality pre-lamb shorn Crossbred and Perendale types, both full-length fleece and second-shear.

All wool types met with enthusiasm from the full bench of buyers present at each auction with a new buyer, introduced through PGG Wrightson, showing interest in some of the early season Merino wools.

Oddment types, across the board, continued to sell at levels almost right up to fleece price in many cases and were often quoted as ‘extreme’ by market observers.

As we look towards the main part of the wool season, it is difficult to imagine that prices will slump to any major

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degree due in the main to wool quantities being limited as the national sheep flock continues to diminish.

Demand is currently definitely outweighing supply, which augers well for wool growers, with the main influencing factors likely to be currency fluctuation and wool quality, however, and as earlier mentioned, the strong Kiwi dollar has not had any major effect on pricing this season to date, and it’s interesting to note, that when comparing the Kiwi dollar and the New Zealand wool price over a period of years, there has been little to suggest any significant correlation. Most wool price market movements appear simply dependent on the demand vs supply equation and, whilst some pundits may not enjoy such comment, that is an unfortunate but true reflection of the nature of the commodity called wool.

I have often remarked about wool quality and preparation standards and while both are extremely important to ensure full value is obtained, the current situation with many wool types testing significantly higher for yield (yield = clean wool once impurities are removed) than perhaps is normal, is worthy of note, particularly for those growers who may consider selling their wool at the farm gate with no test data.

21

Based on the strength of current market pricing, PGG Wrightson has a range of fixed price forward contracts available, backed up by mainly European manufacturers, at attractive clean prices providing income assurance (subject to meeting contract specification) for a portion of your future wool clip. That’s my view.

Meet Your Local Wool Representative at PGG Wrightson Wool

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SEPTEMBER 2013

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

Ross Livestock

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Livestock

Bulls sell well at Te Atarangi

by Colin Patterson

There was a lot of bull on the Kaipara Peninsula last week — but everyone went home happy.

Operating from Parua Bay All profits retained locally 1% of sales donated to charitable trust Contact Murdoch Ross (owner) 09 436 5828 or Mike Bryham (Buyer) 09 436 5691

email: rosslivestock@gmail.com

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FRY! PADDYVALE Angus and Romney Stud (PJ Morresey Ltd) 18th Annual 38 Yearling Angus Bulls Thursday 19th September 2013 Undercover at Dargaville Saleyards (sale commences 1.00pm) Auctioneers Note: These bulls are very well fleshed, hill country bulls with great temperament and predominantly NZ bloodlines. Ideal for heifer mating, low/medium birth weights. TB status: C10 EBL and BVD Tested negative BVD vaccinated. All bulls sold as yearlings. No bulls retained for 2-year-old sale.

Agent Steve Harsant: 027 497 9892 Vendors Paddy Morresey: 09 439 0749 PGG Wrightsons

Te Atarangi owner Chris Biddles with two of his bulls in the sale pen

Te Atarangi Farm owners Chris and Karren Biddles held their 25th annual Angus sale on September 3, with buyers from throughout Northland descending on their property on the Kaipara Peninsula south of Te Kopuru searching for the best in breeding stock.

Before the sale Mr Biddles said the dry summer meant weights for the 102 Bulls on offer were lower than in 2012. But the number of bulls was up 14 compared with a year earlier.

Ten bulls sold for more than $4,000 with a top price of $7,200. Just two animals were passed in. The average price was $2,694, slightly down on last year. But Mr Biddles was still happy. “That was an extremely good average. And we sold 14 more bulls than last year.”

About 150 people witnessed the sale and bidding for prime stock was fierce. Steady rain fell through much of the two-hour sale. But that did little to dampen enthusiasm from bidders.

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The sale took place on Mr Biddles’ 60th birthday and ended with birthday wishes and presents from auctioneers PGC Wrightson and the Southern Rugby Club, of which Mr Biddles is a life member and former president.

Once all documentation had been completed bidders and auctioneers retreated out of the rain to the Biddles’ homestead for a welcome cuppa and nibbles — including some quality Te Atarangi beef.

Te Atarangi Farm has become legendary for its success in breeding bulls. In 2007 Mr Biddles and his wife won the Steak of Origin, a nationwide competition run by New Zealand Beef and Lamb.

Last year Te Atarangi won a trophy for producer of the decade, while earlier this year the Biddles enjoyed a second success in the Steak of Origin.

Mr Biddles, after farming on the peninsula for more than 30 years, says success is attributable to hard work — and other factors. “It’s the type of cattle we raise — they’re quick to mature. Te Atarangi runs a complete programme focussing on heifer mating.

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2013

23

PASTURE management ADVERTORIAL

Restoring a depleted maize paddock in just three months

Last year, Grant Paton of Environmental Fertilisers was given a challenge. He was tasked with restoring pastureland on the Hauraki Plains, a marine clay that had been experiencing diminishing maize yields and returns over the last five years.

In fact the oats and tama sown during the previous season failed to grow at all, and the land owner didn’t even get a single grazing in.

Local truck drivers were quoted as saying ‘the soil is buggered’.

“But it’s not the soil’s fault,” said Grant. “You guys have been running this place for years. You can’t blame the soil.”

The owner wasn’t prepared to risk another failed crop, so Grant took over the lease and begun restoring the soil with only a three-month time frame to work in.

His first task was to find out why the oats and tama failed to grow. The soil structure was very poor and there was a lot of ponding of water that was not draining away, even after two days of sunshine. After conducting a Reams Soil Test (which tests for available nutrients) Grant found that the nitrate and ammonium nitrogen levels were very low and the soil had very low energy levels — only 70cgs where a maize plant requires 600–800cgs to grow properly. The plant-available calcium was also very low, restricting plant/grain weight and plant health.

The field received 14 tonne per hectare of a fertiliser mix comprising 10 tonne/ha of compost and four tonne/ha of composted minerals (comprising BAS-50, Soil Force, Soil Conditioner, trace minerals, microbial food and microbial inoculations (Bio-Vam, 10/25 Soil Microbes and Combo 12).

At the end of the season Grant harvested 18 tonne of green feed maize — and all with only 50mm of rainfall.

Other crops in the district grown with conventional fertiliser and soil management produced 9–11 tonnes and a couple of crops failed.

The moral of the story? Grant says: “Collect the correct information — identify why the previous crop yields were declining and rectify what you find. You can’t blame the soil — it is who is running it!”

Four cobs of corn per plant — the potential if we get the soil fertility right

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REAMS SOIL TESTING The only test that shows what nutrients are available for plants.

24

SEPTEMBER 2013

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

PASTURE management Soil Matters with Peter Burton

The role of fertiliser in growing

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A phone call was received recently from a regular reader of our column and he had a number of questions that we will answer as best we can.

And although the caller is a successful vege grower the answers to the queries, because the principles of all soil grown crops are the essentially the same, is

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equally applicable to pastoral farming as to vegetable growing.

The first question was, ‘what is the role of fertiliser applied to soil?’

Due to New Zealand’s relatively benign climate, the fact that most nutrients come direct from the atmosphere, and our soils are calcium rich, plants and trees grow readily without the addition of ‘fertiliser’.

However to optimise the growth of higher fertility species such as nutritious vegetables and clover based pastures fertiliser is required.

All plants grow best with regular applications of natural material such as blood and bone, fish and/or seaweed, and quality compost. Quality growth follows provided the soil is dark, deep and friable.

The application of sufficient of these materials to grazing properties is usually neither practicable nor cost effective, so the essential major elements of N (nitrogen), P (phosphorus), K (potassium), and S (sulphur) are applied in a more concentrated and easily spread form.

How much of each is required can be formulated from a basic soil test carried out by a reputable testing laboratory.

Because the cost is relatively low a soil test is recommended even for the home vegetable grower.

All good garden outlets sell general purpose garden fertiliser and a little mixed in when digging in the compost will help ensure optimum growth of the next crop.

How long does fertiliser last in the soil?

Water soluble NPK nutrients only remain water soluble for a very short period after application, possibly only a day or two. For nutrients to enter a plant they must be worked on by beneficial soil WARKWORTH

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biology, so the requirement to feed the soil with natural materials is essential.

How quickly does nutrient leach from the soil?

There are a number of factors however the most important is the amount of humus in the soil. Humus is the result of the biological breakdown of organic matter and is the ‘glue’ in the soil that provides good structure as well as storing both moisture and nutrient.

The amount of moisture either in rainfall or applied, affects the rate of nutrient lost with more moisture increasing the likelihood of nutrient leaching.

However even in high rainfall and irrigated areas the amount of nutrient lost by leaching is minimal when soil is well-structured, biologically active, and humus rich.

Should bare soil be covered?

Ideally, always! Bare areas of soil are steadily losing moisture and carbon.

In gardens a covering of weed free straw or clippings will help build humus.

On farm when the nutrient status, biology, and physical soil structures are ideal vigorous grass and clover plants cover the entire surface.

For further information, please call Peter on 0800 843 809.

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2013

25

PASTURE management ADVERTORIAL

Cash Back’s getting positive feed back

$50 Cash Backs apply to every single bag of Pacific Seeds’ maize (except Hygreen) sold between now and the end of the year with full details available at www.pacificseeds.co.nz.

“An alternative strategy to increase sales staff was dismissed,” said Barry.

“At this point our grower supportive marketing model has been warmly welcomed by our clients.”

This client focussed innovation coincides with the launch of Pacific Seeds 2013 Seed Catalogue which features a number of the company’s New Generation hybrids.

These new hybrids are part of Pacific Seeds’ continuing focus on improved yields and stronger agronomic traits.

Farmers are fast becoming aware of the value of maize silage that delivers high ME, and high starch levels and these new

L

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hybrids have been developed to respond to these demands.

Among the new hybrids PAC 456 is one ideally suited to Northland conditions and did well for growers during last year’s drought. A midseason 108 CRM silage option, it is high yielding, with excellent staygreen. It also provides growers with a long harvest window.

Another newbie is PAC 249. With a 95 CRM it is suitable for grain or silage and delivers high yields with quick dry down and large well filled cobs.

“During last year’s drought PAC 456 really saved our bacon,” said dairy farmer, Dick Post

PAC 624 is a full season, silage only hybrid that has performed really well in Northland during previous seasons.

A tall plant with large well-filled cobs it delivers high yields and excellent ME levels. Because of demand early ordering is essential.

During last season’s drought PAC 301 was a real star with growers commenting favourably on its speed out of the ground, staygreen, cob size, grain fill and ME levels. A dual purpose, mid-season hybrid, PAC 301 produces cobs that are consistently 18 to 20 kernels round.

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The early response to Pacific Seeds’ Cash Back promo has received an excellent response from maize growers throughout New Zealand.

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26

SEPTEMBER 2013

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

PASTURE management Copper in soil, animals and plants

by Dr Tim Jenkins

Molybdenum is a vital trace element for enzymes in nitrogen fixation in micro-organisms (including the rhizobia bacteria in legume nodules), and nitrogen metabolism and a range of other functions in many micro-organisms and all plants and animals.

Certain crops are more commonly limited by low molybdenum levels — these include cauliflower, brassicas generally, lettuce, onion, beets, carrots, parsnips and citrus. Deficiency

symptoms can include low nitrogen levels and nitrogen deficiency yellowing as well as cupping of leaves.

Total molybdenum contents in soil can vary widely between soil types with a range of 0.2 to around 2.5 ppm being typically seen in New Zealand soils. Availability of the molybdenum is greatly affected by soil pH with acid soils having greater ‘lock-up’ of the element by adsorption onto soil minerals. With a higher soil pH eg through liming,

availability of molybdenum can improve. Plants need hardly any molybdenum and can generally tolerate very high molybdenum before showing toxicity. The problem with molybdenum Yellowed clover leaves can be toxicity in livestock however, an indicator of molybdenum deficiency is well known (and humans need to take care in handling the antagonise copper uptake inducing element — the dust is hazardous too). acute copper deficiency in livestock. In High molybdenum uptake can easily most pastures therefore, it is probably safer to try to address molybdenum with bulk liming to bring the pH up to a good level say around 6.0 to 6.2. Fortunately LIMITED the lime also contains some steadily 8871 released molybdenum too.

Limestone Quarry in In some cases, liming is not sufficient Wellsford supplying the and there can be marvellous responses lower north and down into in clover growth to 10 grams per hectare the Waikato areas. (one off annually for five years) of sodium molybdate being sprayed on.

Also a fully Note the small amount — that’s all the portable crusher nitrogen fixing rhizobium bacteria need and lime to get a boost in their activities. (Note pulveriser that if applying in solid fertiliser form, the makes 65mm HILLTOP LIME recommended rate would be around 50 limestone – Drainage & Ag lime for farms grams per hectare).

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Read the paper online

www.farminglifestyles.co.nz

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2013

27

PA S T U R E M A N AG E M E N T

Nitrogen fixing for free

by John K Morris, Agrissentials

If you want the best producing soil on your farm, then read on and discover how easy it is to achieve. All it takes is a change in how you think about the soil and then the change in your soil can begin to happen.

The first and foremost thing to realise is that the soil on your farm is the stomach of the plant. All life on the planet has some type of stomach. However, the most abundant form of life on our planet is plants and although they don’t appear to have a stomach, their roots are well entrenched in the stomach which we know as the soil. The gut of the fish contains the same micro-organisms as the gut of humans, animals and the soil.

All life is intrinsically connected through these microbes — how magical is that?

For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction and this is evident in the move to agro-chemical production, particularly over the past 30 years with the inherent toxicity of phosphate rock used in the production of superphosphate and its petrochemical partner, urea.

The action of these two products is not only having a negative effect on our environment, but also on our food production, especially with issues over the heavy metal cadmium coming from super phosphate and the excess loading of nitrate in food, resulting from heavy applications of urea. Super phosphate and urea are decimating the microbial

mass of the soil. These microbes are essential in achieving top quality food production.

They are the farmer’s soil management team; converting mineral to a plant available form, building humus (carbon) in the soil, increasing soil water retention quality, water drainage capacity, mineral quality, topsoil depth and fixing all the natural nitrogen your pasture requires, via the atmosphere, for free! That will beat any chemical fertiliser shareholder rebate to smithereens and you’ll be looking after the environment too.

Agro-chemical production has reached the point whereby it is now damaging New Zealand’s clean green image. Our 100% pure declaration has been blown out the door, courtesy of the chemical consultants advising farmers to use toxic products on their farm, resulting in export market questioning the value of the food we are producing. For example, the current problems and scrutiny some

New Zealand dairy exporters are facing with China.

For the past 460 million years plants have been fixing nitrogen directly from the atmosphere with the help from mycorrhizal fungi and rhizobium bacteria.

The addictive use of synthetic nitrogen (urea) suppresses this natural system of free nitrogen supply, in particular clovers (which can fix nitrogen naturally) which instead start resonating at a frequency that attracts the clover flea and root weevil.

If however you refrain from using urea, the clover seeds in the soil will germinate and are further enhanced by the applications of Agrissentials best on earth fertilisers. Clover for cows is the ultimate food.

Clover for cows is the ultimate food

Farming is meant to be a natural process and the more natural you make it the better it operates — that is how nature designed it. Farmers are tricked into chemical production with the lure

of more stock, more money, only to find themselves on the chemical treadmill and little profit to show for it. The chemical cowboys are taking it all!

We need to get back to wholesome farming, producing wholesome food for a wholesome profit and Agrissentials are at the coal-face bringing health and vitality back to your farm with our multimineral, microbial rich fertilisers.

The mind is like a parachute — it has to be open to work, so close your wallet and look into Agrissentials’ atmospheric nitrogen fixing programme and save yourself some serious money and look after the environment at the same time — that’s got to be the best deal ever.

Farmers already on our programme, just take it for granted.

Call your Agrissentials’ rep now: Ray Holland on 021 669 059 or call Agrissentials on 0800 THE KEY (0800 843 539). There’s never been a better time to call us with our spring sale on now, that’s got massive nationwide FREIGHT FREE DEALS (some conditions apply) on bulk units of Rok Solid, Roketlime and Oceans 100 until the end of September.

28

SEPTEMBER 2013

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

PASTURE management ADVERTORIAL

The value of a soil test and an independent consultant The client had ordered a “Dirt Dagger” kit from the www.soiltest.co.nz website with a Basic Soil test plus Sulphate Sulphur.

The No-Tillage Seed drill

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apply seed included conditions Phone Ross on: 0800 66 84 55 021439837

This is really the minimum requirement for someone who is testing for the first time.

The test results showed that if money was no object, then my recommendation would have included Lime, to lift pH, Phosphate, Magnesium and Sulphur. However when discussing results and possible fertiliser programs with any client, I always try to establish what the budget is. In this case there was only a limited budget of $1,000 inc gst and freight, although there was a tractor mounted fert spreader available and he had a reasonable trailer. He also mentioned that nothing was growing on the property!

Now the soil test showed that the most important deficiency by far was Phosphate which measured at 4 mg/L. For grassland on this Clay/Loam soil the Phosphate level needs to be up around 20–30 mg/L and so Phosphate in this soil was almost nonexistent! No wonder nothing was growing and any amount of Phosphate was going to make a huge difference. I was hoping to suggest 250 kg / ha over 6 ha totalling 1.5 tonnes.

I always ask clients what type of fertiliser they are comfortable with

A SOIL TEST PAYS FOR ITSELF! What will make your land more productive?

What pH is your soil?

What soil nutrients are needed?

Find out with a DIY soil test kit today and let us explain what it means.

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(Chemical, Biological, Organic) as I am not pushing any particular barrow. (Even if I have my own preference!) In this case my client was happy with Superphosphate.

The price of 25 kg bagged Super (the only size available) from a local merchant was $713.00 / tonne over 1.5 ha = $1,230 inc gst. Result — budget blown!

I next spoke to the local spreader who has Super in his bins and he said he could bag the 1.5 tonnes of Super into 40 kg bags for a total of $790.00 inc gst. Great.

BUT my client then asked me if it was possible to mix grass seed with the fertiliser. Answer — yes, it is possible, but not with Superphosphate as the acid in Super will burn the seed. The alternative is Dicalcium Phosphate (used to be called Reverted Phosphate) which is a higher pH Phosphate that won’t harm seed. The Fert Spreader could get this too and it would cost exactly the same, except it is 8% Phosphate, compared to Super which is 9 %. This made sense to my client, especially

when my friendly Fert Spreader said he would mix the seed in for nothing if my client delivered the seed he wanted. The client will pick up the bagged fert in a few trips with his trailer and spread himself — all for well under $1,000.

So perhaps you can now firstly see the need for a good soil test to identify what nutrients are needed and which are most important. Secondly the need for someone who can understand the soil test and then know what to advise and be able to get it supplied and spread in an efficient and cost effective way, knowing also something as simple as not mixing seed with Superphosphate. A Wise Earth Basic Soil Test kit plus Sulphate Sulphur costs $176.00 + gst. Not much compared to the fertiliser + the mistakes that can be made!

John Ferens Dip Ag Mgmnt, Advanced Sustainable Nutrient Management (Massey). Wise Earth Solutions Ltd. 09 292 7891 or 021 860 300 www. soiltest.co.nz.

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NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2013

29

PASTURE management ADVERTORIAL

Pasture Renovation and Protection

by Aidan Lett, Nitrosol

To renovate and protect your pasture it is absolutely essential that you think about the soil biology.

The easiest way to begin that thought process is to dig a few holes and count the numbers of earthworms. At the same time break open each sod and examine the root depth of the pasture, 2 simple measurements which tell you a lot about what is happening in your soil.

If the average root depth is less than 75mm and you have less than 5–8 worms per spadeful then you can be sure that you

will lose your pasture very quickly in a dry spell or drought. And during wet periods the soil won’t drain either!

many more words than we have available in this article to give a detailed description, however we can offer a few clues.

Briefly, you need to be sure your soil calcium levels are optimised for the biology to function effectively and efficiently, and that is where lime comes in.

PhloLime sprayable rapid action lime is many times more efficient and effective than Ag-Lime, due to its tiny particle size.

Then you need to apply Nitrosol Oceanic, a biological liquid suspension fertiliser, made

from good old organic blood and bone, sourced from fish processing operations.

Begin this process and within 12 months you will see a huge increase in the root depth of your pasture, an earthworm count that will amaze you and subsequently better results from your stock. Use this process over two to three years and you can expect to see root depths of up to 300mm and earthworm numbers around 25–30 per spadeful.

Now stand back and see how your pasture looks in a dry spell!

Address the soil biology with the right programme and you can look forward to your pasture hanging on far longer in tough conditions and you will have a more nutritious pasture that will produce noticeably better results from your stock. So how do you achieve better soil biology? It would take

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30

SEPTEMBER 2013

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

PASTURE management GREAT VALUE

ADVERTORIAL

Nitrogen power where it’s needed most Farmers have long known that nitrogen is a key element to boosting pasture growth — one of the prime ingredients in building healthy soil.

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But urea alone is not the perfect delivery method for nitrogen, as excessive application can upset the delicate pH balance of the soil, suppressing other nutrients and trace elements.

Soil science experts have drilled down to the root of the issue, identifying the microbial and bacteriological processes which occur under the turf, and from these findings a new, more advanced fert product has been developed. N Power is a blend of nitrogen, sulphur, humic

N POWER POWER N POWER N

and gibberellic acids — an alternative to urea which actively promotes the growth of new plant tissue at a cellular level.

N Power’s creators stress that traditional urea fertilisers can actually harm soil in certain circumstances, for example dissipating as ammonium gas from dry soil, or becoming hydrogen peroxide in very damp soil — a transformation which kills the substrate humus.

By comparison, N Power is designed to be uptaken directly by the plant foliage, fast, for less wastage. The protection of this humus layer is key to healthy pasture,

as it is the food and energy source of beneficial bacteria in the soil. They are an important link in the chain, for without these tiny creatures to add carbon to the mix, nitrogen would not be able to bond with the carbon to form basic protein.

From the very start, N Power was developed to support this natural process.

Locally, N Power is available via Ag Direct, who recommend it as an affordable solution, both for stimulating pasture growth and also to help pasture ‘bounce back’ after weed spraying, making spraying coverage more effective.

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Excessive Excessive Urea Urea application application upsets upsets the the Excessive ExcessiveUrea Ureaapplication applicationupsets upsetsthe the structure and PH of the soil, suppressstructure and PH of the soil, suppressstructure structureand andPH PHofofthe thesoil, soil,suppresssuppresses es other other nutrients nutrients and and trace trace elements elements es esother othernutrients nutrientsand andtrace traceelements elements and creates an indigestible high and creates an indigestible high and andcreates createsan anindigestible indigestiblehigh high protein protein diet diet that, that, in in turn turn upsets upsets an an protein proteindiet dietthat, that,ininturn turnupsets upsetsan an .. animal’s metabolic balances animal’s metabolic balances .. animal’s animal’smetabolic metabolicbalances balances Best Best application application timing timing is is onto onto aa dewy dewy Best Bestapplication applicationtiming timingisisonto ontoaadewy dewy pasture early morning or evening. pasture early morning or evening. pasture pastureearly earlymorning morningororevening. evening.

N Power Power is is an an ideal ideal alternative alternative to to Urea.

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NNNPower Powerisisan anideal idealalternative alternativetotoUrea.

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Your Power benefits: YourNNN NPower Powerbenefits: benefits: Your Your Power benefits:

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•• Stimulates Stimulates plant plant growth growth with with natural natural hormone hormone like like response. response.

• •Stimulates Stimulatesplant plantgrowth growthwith withnatural naturalhormone hormonelike likeresponse. response.

•• Increases Increases herbicide herbicide and and mineral mineral uptake. uptake.

• •Increases Increasesherbicide herbicideand andmineral mineraluptake. uptake.

•• Complexes Complexes previously previously added added chemicals chemicals to to reduce reduce destructive destructive residues residues in in the the soil. soil.

• •Complexes previously added chemicals Complexes previously added chemicalstotoreduce reducedestructive destructiveresidues residuesininthe thesoil. soil.

•• AAstable stable nitrogen nitrogen -- eliminating eliminating atmosphere atmosphere volatilisation volatilisation and and nutrient nutrient burn. burn.

• •AAstable stablenitrogen nitrogen- eliminating - eliminatingatmosphere atmospherevolatilisation volatilisationand andnutrient nutrientburn. burn.

•• AAnon non acidic acidic PH PH neutral, neutral, nitrogen. nitrogen.

• •AAnon nonacidic acidicPH PHneutral, neutral,nitrogen. nitrogen.

•• Eliminates Eliminates breakdown breakdown of of soil soil structure structure associated associated with with conventionally conventionally used used urea. urea.

• •Eliminates Eliminatesbreakdown breakdownofofsoil soilstructure structureassociated associatedwith withconventionally conventionallyused usedurea. urea.

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$1695 +GST 1000 ltr pod

Direct Ag Direct Direct

• Surveys • Scenic Flights • Charter • Heli-fishing • Photography • Search & Rescue

P. 07 868 6100 Thames

skywork@skyworkhelicopters.com

www.skyworkhelicopters.com

r e k o o H Contracting • Maize Harvesting/Planting • Square Silage/Hay • Mulching

• Muck Spreading • Cultivation • Undersowing

Call Grant 0274 788 472

• 09 435 1310

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2013

31

PASTURE management ADVERTORIAL

Fresh direction for groundspread professionals Peter McQuinn has been helping create healthier pastures and healthier profits for farmers in the Whangarei region since 1974 — the year he took over his father’s successful groundspreading business, established directly after the Second World War.

Maungatapere transport Livestock & general carriers Hardware store & farm supplies Silage & hay making Workshop repairs Water

pasture, otherwise wasted material can be used to boost pasture performance.

If any proof was needed of the versatile efficiency of the K-Two, it came when Peter travelled to a new herd home site in Purua — not to disperse fertiliser, but to lay wood chip for a new feed pad. The rugged tines of the K-Two made short work of the wood chip and of the job — and still gave Peter the option to switch between a variety of different grades and varieties of nutrient-rich muck and fert on a job by job basis.

During his time working on the land Peter has seen technologies change, with ever more advanced and powerful machinery coming on line to assist in the job of modern agriculture. But a couple of things have remained the same.

Firstly — and most importantly — it still takes good soil to grow healthy pasture. This has been true since the dawn of civilisation, and it’s still true today, backed up by rigorous scientific tests. As the old adage says, ‘you get out of soil what you put in’. The other point which remains very valid is this — in agriculture, as in any business, adapting and expanding is the key to lasting success.

With both of these tenets in mind Peter’s company, McQuinn Groundspread, has recently expanded its fleet to encompass a new K-Two muck spreader.

This powerful British-built machine has enabled McQuinn Groundspread to grow beyond the traditional boundaries of groundspreading and fert application, into a whole new range of on-farm tasks. With a high capacity, and a set of extremely effective rear-mounted vertical rotors to shred and disperse even dry fert product, this latest addition to the McQuinn stable has already seen plenty of action on Northern farms.

By dispersing substances like chicken manure and drain cleanings across

*House sites, farm work, effluent ponds, long reach arm available,V drains, trenching buckets (250, 450, 600mm) 3m weed, drain cleaning bucket.

Maungatapere Phone 09 434 6722 Freephone 0508 434 672

*Competitive rates

Call owner/operator Doug Hanley: 0273 745 090 A/H 09 439 0069

McQuinn M cQuinn

Groundspread specialists

ON SITE DIESEL REFUELLING TM

ON-SITE DIESEL REFUELLING

Tony Noonan 021 279 5863 A/H 09 438 4485 E: tony.noonan@xnet.co.nz | 14 Kereru St, Maunu, Whangarei

Ray Lowe Contracting Ltd Agricultural Contracting Fertiliser & Lime Spreading Pit, Round & Square Silage Round & Square Hay Spread Mark Certified

Tangihua Road RD8, Whangarei 0178 Phone & Fax: 09 432 3141 • Mobile: 027 247 6221

Covering the North We Sow It - You Grow It

Spreadmark Qualified

Phone Peter on 09 433 5889 Mobile: 027 493 1894

CHICKEN MANURE FERTILISER A natural, cost effective all year round N.P.K. fertiliser for pasture, maize crops, market gardens & small blocks.

We supply, cart & spread We also supply: • Lime • Metal • Sand Neil 021 724 327 Graeme 022 123 4681 Office 09 299 6486

bennett fertilisers

STANDARD & CERTIFIED ORGANIC CHICKEN MANURE www.bennettfertilisers.co.nz

32

SEPTEMBER 2013

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

Ask The Professionals HIBISCUS LAW Ltd Whangaparaoa admin@hibiscuslaw.co.nz 09 424 7475

LAWYERS

Ltd

ROSEDALE LAW Ltd Albany admin@rosedalelaw.co.nz 09 448 5392

Hibiscus Law is situated on the Whangaparaoa Peninsular and Rosedale Law in central Albany. We can offer appointments at both associated law firms, or ask about our mobile legal services.

We provide down-to-earth legal services and strive to offer an approachable and dedicated practice that meets all our client’s needs.

We are experienced in

• Rural, Commercial & Domestic Sale & Purchase of Property • Business Law • Company Matters • Wills

• Family Trusts • Property Relationship Agreements • Business Sale & Purchase • Estates • Powers of Attorney

For a lawyer phone us today or visit our website for more information.

MOBILE LEGAL SERVICES Ltd 0800 law mobile

www.hibiscuslaw.co.nz

www.rosedalelaw.co.nz

HYDRO-SEEDING • EROSION CONTROL • RE-VEGETATION LAWN & TURF CARE • IRRIGATION • STRAW MULCH • SILT SOCKS • FORESTRY REHAB • WE BUY STANDING HAY/BALE HAY Proven Specialists in Professional Hydro-Seeding & Erosion Control

Ecologically responsible, technically advanced environmental services for residential homeowners, local authorities, institutions, commercial contractors, civil engineers, landscapers, developers, property investors and farmers.

Wherever there are earthworks is the ever-present problem of wind erosion, dust nuisance, sediment run off, wash-outs or slips.

Rapid re-vegetation is always the objective to minimise run off and surface particle displacement. Hydro-seeding has become the preferred method of re-vegetation and, especially on slopes and terrain with access difficulties, is often the only practical solution.

EcoTec, a New Zealand company, are the proven specialists in hydro-seeding and erosion control, offering expert knowledge and field experience, highly efficient locally-developed hydro-seeding equipment and proprietary ‘Ecomix’ certified seed mixes developed to suit specific purposes and a wide variety of conditions.

EcoTec also offers solutions to wind erosion and dust nuisance on exposed stockpiles and unsealed areas. Our exclusive Silt Fence Plow provides speed and economy in the installation of sediment screen fencing around construction sites. Learn more about our services on our website, or contact us now for full information, expert advice and free quote.

1195 Pipiwai Road, Ruatangata, Whangarei

www.ecotec.co.nz

BOI Plumbing & Drainage Ltd GERRY WHITE

• CERTIFIED DRAINLAYING • We are a local Kerikeri based family company and we have been servicing the far north district area successfully since 1994.

Specialising in commercial & domestic Drainlaying, commercial & domestic pumping systems, for both water supply & irrigation

needs & mechanical wastewater systems along with conventional trench systems.

We also have engineering experience, both in the commercial industry & rural sector, in design work of systems & implementing final installation of these systems.

We are FNDC & NRC recognised TP58 onsite wastewater & TP10 onsite stormwater designers, including subdivision drainage reports for soil & site evaluations prior to council consent approval.

GIVE US A CALL…

Standard Gravity Systems & Secondary Mechanical Systems Installation TP58 approved FNDC Wastewater Designer

P: 021 716 681 A/h: 09 407 8591

gerry@boidrainage.co.nz

bEforE

aftEr

Phone 0508 326 832

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2013

33

Ask The Professionals For all your shelterbelt, hedge and tree trimming, call Cuffy.

Mob. 027

292 8360 A/h. 09 435 5333

Treeline

TRIMMING

www.treelinetrimming.co.nz

TAMING THE WILDTM

Exclusively designed for our market, the NEW Husqvarna LC Walk Behind Mowers can easily maintain a wide range of lawn types, even in the most extreme conditions.

LC18 LAWN MOWER Briggs & Stratton DOV series engine 46cm / 18” Steel deck

$599

NEW

LC19A LAWN MOWER Briggs & Stratton DOV series engine 48cm / 19” Alloy deck

$779

FROM

NEW

$599* Refers to model LC18

*

LC19AP LAWN MOWER

yOUR AUTHORISED HUSQVARNA SPECIALIST DEALER

Briggs & Stratton DOV I/C series engine 48cm / 19” Alloy deck

$899

Copyright © 2012 Husqvarna AB (publ). All rights reserved.

NEW

WALK BEHIND LAWN MOWERS

Peninsula Mowers & Heating www.peninsulamowers.co.nz

611 Whangaparaoa Rd, Hibiscus Coast Phone

09 424 3104

www.husqvarna.co.nz

See instore for details

Greenhouses – shadehouses – dairy herd shelters – calf sheds – nurseries – Garden centres – floWers

...if it needs protecting from the weather... call us first

...we are the professionals.

Ph 0800 Harford (427 367) www.taylorbuilt.co.nz Serving the North for over 25 years Geotextiles – erosion control – contractors and landscapers – shadesails – shadecloth – Windbreak

need a

SOLID PARTNER TO BUILD WITH?

www.henwoodbuilders.co.nz

Henwood Builders have the staff, resources and knowledge to undertake all contracts big and small, commercial and residential, including calf sheds, lean toos, retainer walls, feed pads, shearers quarters, kitchens, decks and new homes.

Based in the Bay of Islands, Henwood Builders have serviced the Mid North Region from the Hokianga area to the Bay Of Islands, from Kawakawa to North Cape since 1993. Several staff have been with Henwood Builders for over 20 years, creating a strong company base.

This reflects the companies’ loyalty, experience and commitment to staff, their safety and well being; and client satisfaction.

Many close professional working relationships have been formed with local sub-contractors and companies who enable us to deliver to the highest standard. Henwood Builders employs the latest industry services, technology and developments. As an addition to the many services Henwood Builders offer, we have added another branch to the Company, being new homes under the Competitive Homes umbrella. These designs can be viewed on our website, www.competitivehomes.co.nz

Our goal is to provide clients with courteous, expedient, professional service of the highest calibre. call 09

401 0789

77 Mangakahia Road Kaikohe

34

SEPTEMBER 2013

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

Northern Rural Marketplace A&S RepAiRS • Tractor Repairs.

• Farm Machinery Repairs.

• Any Welding Repairs — Pipework, Cattle Yards etc.

• Any Cowshed Revamps or Alterations.

Fully mobile — will travel throughout Northland

Allan

Phone 09 439 5460 | 0274 795 460 Quality Workmanship — Reliable Service

Bill Callwood specialising in all mulching... gorse, grass etc, lifestyle Blocks, Farms, sections, Orchards

Mob 021 556 806

bill.callwood@btopenworld.com

Acraflex Dairy Wall Coatings New or existing walls

Able to be applied between milkings during summer months

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

Phone 09 439 5902

Suitable for repairing damaged dairy floors or slippery areas Bruce Cameron 027 498 8412 / 09 235 8263

Mobile 027 484 1823 • Fax 09 439 1320

Maize Planting & Harvesting

DY M AC K AY N A CONTRACTING

Round Hay & Silage

Conventional Hay Baling

Cultivation Under Sowing

AGRICULTURAL & FENCING

Slurry Tanker

Fertilizer Spreading Contact: Mathew Cobb 027 220 2702

Whangarei

Terry North

Colourcrete Dairy Floor Resurfacing System

Ph: (09) 404 1615 or 0800 AGRI FRM

Anlyn Piling & Contracting Ltd

AFFCO LIVESTOCK

ATS

ProPerty Maintenance & rePair

Ph/Fax Andy 09 423 7339 or 0274 956 674

C&C Contract Electrical Commercial • Industrial Domestic • Dairy

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

027 543 7244

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

GORDYS FLYTRAP FITTING®

No jobRing tooAndrew small

Covering the Kaipara! Cell 0274 557 750

mixing and placing of rammed earth

$20 plus p&p

GORDYS FLYTRAP FITTING 21 LITCHFIELD ST, BLENHEIM

Patented in New Zealand/Australia

D & A Nisbet Contracting Co Ltd Northland Wide - For all your Earthwork Requirements

Available from CRT, PGG Wrightson, Farmlands UV Protected Polycarbonate. Fits on any container with a flat surface.

Instructions supplied with the fitting.

Email: elaine.gordon@xtra.co.nz www.gordys-flytrap-fitting.com

Phone Craig 021 440 634 09 439 6465

for a quote ring:

steve 0274 966 799

HOUSE SITES: • Driveways • Foundations • Drilling • Retaining Walls • Hard Landscaping • Farm Roads & Races

FENCING: • Industrial/Domestic • Security • Farm • Tough Terrain Fencing

Phone Darryl 0274 618 689 A/Hrs 09 433 9933

www.coastlineecobuild.co.nz

Email: daryl.anita.67@ihug.co.nz

NOW AVAILABLE

Grader aNd aNd 12TONNe 12TONNe dIGGer dIGG IGGer er

More Milk

ALSO AVAILABLE

110HP 4WD Tractor and Slasher.

Dempster Digger s Ltd

Phone now for pricing and bookings.

PH: 027 262 1848 A/H: 09 433 7325 www.dempsterdiggers.co.nz

Free parking and we don’t run late

Neil Johnson P: (09) 438 4273

IES CONSTRUCTION LTD. • • • •

Bridges Farm buildings Feed pads Bins

BLOCK MOWING EARThWORKs DIGGERs TRuCKs BOBCATs +more

CONCRETE AND TILT SLAB CONSTRUCTION

PO Box 448, Kerikeri, 0245 • PHONE: 09 407 8784 FAX: 09 407 8770 • EMAIL: ies@concrete.net.nz

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.

Better Health

Less Metabolics

WOOd CHIP aNd SaWdUST FOr aNIMaL BeddING

& PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

• Lifestyle blocks • Homes & subdivisions

Bruce 021 557 344 | Jan 021 407 305 | 09 407 3033 jjscontracting@xtra.co.nz

phone 0800 4 DOLOMITE 0800 436 566 Bio-Gro certified

LANDCARE SERVICES • LANDSCAPING • POLE HOLES • 4 IN 1 BUCKET • ROTARY HOE • COMPACT ROLLING • TRENCHER

Dave Hyndman KAIWAKA P: 09 431 2302 M: 021 431 238

Tony Noonan 021 279 5863 OwNer / MaNager TM

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

0800 627 8466 148 Lower Dent Street, Whangarei

www.mcquinnpumps.co.nz

ON-SITE DIESEL REFUELLING

Kereru Holdings Ltd 14 Kereru St, Maunu, Whangarei 0110 A/H 09 438 4485 Fax: 09 438 4409 Email: tony.noonan@xnet.co.nz

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES SEPTEMBER 2013

35

Make Your Life easier! use our services now!

• 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

Doug Wilson Manager Phone: Fax: Mobile: Email:

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

Specialising in Fertiliser and Metal cartage.

30 Tonne units available.

We cover your country!

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

MARGARET & JOHN BISHOP

Pat’s Healing Centre

Northland Laser Drainage Ltd Neil Carter Trading as

www.animalherbs.co.nz — We courier to your door!

Subsurface Drainage Specialists (Nth)

A big range of Health Solutions for you, your family and animals

• Solutions for control of fleas, ticks • Himalayan Salt Lick with and worms with WashBar products, 80+ minerals Diatomaceous Earth and Flee Flea • Orijen Organic Dog and Cat • Herbal and Homeopathic remedies Food — no grains for you and your animals

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

Ph 09 432 0820

1279 S/H 14, MAUNGATAPERE

Visit our Waipu clinic and shop, or website to buy online

TOPUNI

HOMEKILL

BEEF SHEEP PIGS DEER BACON, HAM, SAUSAGES, SALAMI

QUALITY • INTEGRITY

ROOFING S P E CIA LIS TS

Please phone to discuss your requirements PHN 09 431 2271 • MOB 021 984 886

021 026 322 86 • jim@toproofer.co.nz

NZFSA REGISTERED

topunihomekill@farmside.co.nz

REGISTERED DRAINLAYER AFTER HOURS • 09 407 9649 WE COVER ALL OF NORTHLAND FROM KAITAIA TO WHANGAREI SOUTH!

www.pipeitdrainit.co.nz EARTHWORKS - PIPELINES - FARM WATER SYSTEMS NEW AND OLD HOUSE SITE SEWAGE SYSTEMS

MAKE SURE TO GET ThE FREEZER FULL BEFORE ChRISTMAS!

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

For Sale

For Sale

Work Wanted

Farm Services

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 31/9/13.

STOLEN QUAD-BIKES? — You won’t find any listed here, but you can pre-empt this kind of thing happening and protect your fuel too. Visit www.parabeam.co.nz or call 0508 727 223 for more information.

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 31/9/13.

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

DO YOU value hard work, dedication, honesty & enthusiasm? Then give me a chance to prove I have all these qualities & more. Born & raised on a kiwi farm, keen to work hard RIGHT NOW. Please call Aaron, phone 027 891 7357.

FARM BRIDGES Phone Pat now 0800 222 189, visit www.bridgeitnz.co.nz. Bridge It NZ Ltd.

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.

BACK 2 Wood Demolition. We buy & sell renovation materials. Servicing Northland — Auckland.

Specialising in Windows, Doors, Ranchsliders, Kitchens, Vanities, Roofing and More! Check out our website back2wood.co.nz or Phone 0800 10 98 77.

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, 7x4 $1895, 8x4 $2195, 8x5 tandem $2895, 8x5 single $2295, 10x5 tandem $3495, 10x6 tandem $3895 Ph 0800 162 500 Xpress Trailers.

DIETERS DREAM Do you suffer from Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, or struggle Losing Weight? Bios Life Slim, is not a diet, but works on burning fat, even when you are sleeping. Medically proven. http://youtu.be/ TYpLj-0PnS8 Email: unincity4helen@gmail.com.

Phone 027 293 7157.

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 31/9/13.

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 31/9/13.

SINTERED BRAKE PADS — for MX and FarmBikes — from $39 at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Phone 0800 963 636. www.atvtyres.co.nz

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 31/9/13.

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 31/9/13. Conditions apply.

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 31/9/13

Energy Efficiency DO YOU LIVE IN A WINDY SPOT? 3 phase wind turbines starting at $2,200 includes 450 watt turbine, 6m pole, charge controller and inverter, Batteries not included. Ring Colin at Windpower Waikato Phone 0274 831 041 A/H 07 843 7983 Email colin@windpowerwaikato.co.nz

Nurseries & Plants SUBTROPICA NURSERY. A wide range of subtropical fruiting and ornamental plants by courier throughout NZ. Bananas, cherimoya, casimiroa, kava, lucuma, pineapples and much, much more.

Visit www.subtropica.co.nz or catalogue $5 from Subtropica, Massey Rd, R.D.2, Waipu.

Travel NEPAL ESCORTED tour 13-29 Oct 2013. Incl fares, accom, 3-day mini trek, white water rafting, jungle safari. Optional add-on to Bhutan. Phone Skylark Tours 09 432 8065. www.skylarktours.co.nz NORFOLK ISLAND Jazz Festival Escorted tour 1-8 December 2013 incl fares, accom, some meals five jazz concerts and more. Phone Skylark Tours 09 432 8065. www.skylarktours.co.nz CARNIVAL OF VENICE Tuscany & Cinque Terre Escorted tour 27 February – 20 March 2014.

Incl Return fares ex Auck, accom, sight-seeing, all transport in Italy. Phone Skylark Tours 09 432 8065. www.skylarktours.co.nz

Water Services PROFESSIONAL WATER Tank cleaning and sanitising - recommended every 3 to 5 years.

Also for all your water treatment and water filtration systems, call Dave at Aqua Filter Products on 022 402 1964.

TANK WATER TESTING. Find out what harmful ‘bugs’ are present in your drinking water. Samples tested for Coliforms, a written report supplied and remedial actions suggested. Contact Simon at 09 422 9345 or at tankwater@xtra.co.nz.

Services 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”.

Animal Health Products DOG FOOD biscuits. Enhanced with extra meats, our unique formulas offer excellent energy and protein for all life stages of your dog - from puppy to old age. Plus as a result of the hardened biscuit your dog’s teeth are cleaner, promoting healthier teeth and fresher breath. Call Rick for more product information on 027 440 4212.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR, garlic & manuka honey.

200L - $450 or 1,000L - $2,000 + gst, with FREE DELIVERY. Black Type Minerals Ltd. Phone 021 185 1501. www.blacktypeminerals.co.nz.

DOG TRAINING Products – SportDOG remote trainers, Anti-Bark Collars and Containment systems. Trainers with up to 1.6 kms range and can work up to 6 collars. Completely waterproof and rechargeable. Call 0800 872 546. website www.innotek.co.nz

Public Notice

2013 Kaipara District art awarDs Exhibition Exhibition open to the public daily from: Saturday, August 31–Wednesday, September 25, 9am–4pm The Kauri Museum, Church Road, Matakohe

36

SEPTEMBER 2013

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

WORK HARD. RIDE SMOOTH. TOWS MORE, CARRIES MORE, SEATS TWO

$1100

CASH BACK

*

4x4 Mode Turf Mode

POLARIS VARIABLE TRANSMISSION

ON-DEMAND TRUE ALL-WHEEL DRIVE

ACTIVE DECENT CONTROL

CONVERTS TO A TWO SEATER

ROLLED INDEPENDENT REAR SUSPENSION

KG 181/680 TOP CARRYING / TOWING

UNLOCKING REAR DIFF

17 years ago, the Sportsman 500 was launched – a pioneer that set the benchmark other ATV brands would spend years trying to follow: • First with independent rear suspension • First with automatic transmission • First with On Demand All Wheel Drive • First with disc brakes front and rear • Biggest selling automatic 4x4 ATV in the world

AND IT IS NOW ONLY

POLARIS VARIABLE TRANSMISSION

$ 8, 691

EX* GST

SAVE $2000 KG 122/555

INDEPENDENT REAR SUSPENSION

ON-DEMAND TRUE ALL-WHEEL DRIVE

PAYLOAD / TOWING

DISC BRAKES FRONT AND REAR

SEALED FRONT STORAGE

FOR THE SAME PRICE AS A BIG-BORE ATV.

$13,474

EX GST

$1000 CASH BACK

INC GST *

AWD Mode Turf Mode

INDEPENDENT REAR SUSPENSION

ON-DEMAND TRUE ALL-WHEEL DRIVE

ROUSE MOTORCYCLES

1 KING STREET, HIKURANGI. PH: (09) 433 8471

TIPPING DUMP BOX

UNLOCKING REAR DIFF

KG 227/567 CARRYING / PAYLOAD

MAUNGATUROTO MOTORCYCLES LTD

117 HURNDALL ST, MAUNGATUROTO. PH: (09) 431 8555

KUMEU CHAINSAW & MOWER SERVICES MAIN ROAD, HUAPAI. PH: (09) 412 8109

CA MOTORCYCLES LTD

725 POUTU ROA, DARGAVILLE. PH: (09) 439 0170

*Offer ends 30/09/13 or earlier if stocks run out. Only available at participating Polaris dealers. Not valid with any other offer. Excludes fleet clients. $1100 and $1000 Cash Back include GST

0800 440 290 www.polaris.co.nz