Northern Farming Lifestyles, September 2020

Harrisons Cape Runner • The world famous Cape Reinga • Tour along 90 mile beach

30,314 copies DELIVERED FREE to every farm and rural delivery address from Albany to Cape Reinga

Freshwater rules a major issue

September 2020 Edition

Survived to tell the story

capetours@xtra.co.nz Phone www.harrisonscapereingatours.co.nz 0800 22 73 73 www.ahipara.co.nz/caperunner

Seizing an opportunity

P4

P3

P8

Passionate about equestrian Pages 6–7

MAZDA BTḋ50 GLX EXTRA CAB 4WD AUTO Includes: Flatdeck, Running Boards, All Terrain Tyres & Towbar

$46,990 DRIVE AWAY

3 year/150,000 km Comprehensive Mazda Warranty Cover 3 year/100,000km $200 Fixed Price Shceduled Servicing* * *Whichever occurs first. Warranty T’s&C’s apply.

2

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

Power pole crashes rise

Integrity community media

by Ann van Engelen

The Northern Farming Lifestyles is published with pride by Integrity Community Media, a privately owned NZ company.

Phone: 0800 466 793 Email: info@integrity.nz General Manager: Deb Wright | deb.wright@integrity.nz | 021 639 696

Motorists are being urged to slow down due to the number of vehicles crashing into power poles throughout Kaipara and Northland.

Editorial: Ann van Engelen, Paul Campbell, Andy Bryenton Advertising: Betty Willetts, Devon Blair Accounts: accounts@integrity.nz Distribution: Laurie Willetts Website: www.farminglifestyles.co.nz

Distribution details Print run 30,314. ABC audited circulation 32,975, audited Jan–Dec 2014. DELIVERED FREE to every farm and rural delivery address from Albany to Cape Reinga.

BRIDGE BUILDING & PILING SPECIALISTS One of several vehicle crashes in Kaipara, which ended with a power pole being knocked down across the road in Ruawai

We offer Design & Build for Bridges including plans, permits, consents and construction.

Or see us to strengthen and repair your existing bridge to ensure safe access on your property.

Contact: GHK Piling Phone: 09 435 4443

Address: 9-11 Hewlett St, Whangarei

Email: admin@ghk.co.nz Web: www.ghk.co.nz

The 74-inch EVO — 8 hours of mowing (one charge)

Police, Northland Transportation Alliance, Northpower and Top Energy have joined together to raise public awareness on the dangers of power pole crashes. There have been 13 instances of vehicles hitting poles since June this year in Northland, including Kaipara, interrupting the electricity supply to 47,129 customers.

As of last Friday week, there have been 383 power pole, street lamp and telecommunication pole accidents in Northland since 2016. One hundred and four of those were in the Kaipara and Whangarei districts.

Crash analysis data from Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency shows 45 per cent of crashes are in the 15–29-year-old age bracket.

“A moment’s distraction can cause a lifetime of change. People living with brain injuries often live with ongoing fatigue issues. They may travel from Whangarei to Auckland and need to stop for several rests. Fatigue is real, take a break,” says Brain Injury Association

Northland liaison officer, Vikki Herdman.

Northpower Network general manager Josie Boyd says: “When people take out power poles and groundmounted transformers, that creates additional dangers due to the risk of electrocution, fires and power outages in our community.

“I want to urge motorists to reduce their speed in winter conditions. We are seeing too many crashes taking out power poles. During the initial Covid-19 lockdown we had virtually no incidents, but since then we have seen a spike in vehicles crashing into power poles. Our message is that if you are in a vehicle that takes down a power pole and the powerlines end up on the ground, be extremely careful.

“If you can safely drive clear, do so.

If not, stay in the vehicle, phone 111 and stay where you are until you are told it is safe to get out. Our crews and emergency services attend to these crashes quickly.”

KEEP TRACK OF WHERE YOU’VE BEEN BARNS | SHEDS | GARAGES WWW.THESHEDCO.CO.NZ 195 RAPSON RD, RD1, KAUKAPAKAPA

Please review our website for the full product range

Better for your health Cheap to operate

Quiet Powerful

WORKSHOPS

GARAGES

INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS

CUSTOM BUILT HOMES

FARM SHEDS

AMERICAN BARNS

Finance Now Available! Normal credit criteria applies

Call Bruce on 027 223 0054 for more info or email bruce@meangreenmowers.co.nz www.meangreenmowers.co.nz

WE BUILD TO YOUR REQUIREMENTS – ANY SIZE.

All designs can be converted to live in | Best quality, best price, best service.

0800 222 027

bryce@theshedco.co.nz | 027 292 2400 Auckland West to Whangarei

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

Freshwater rules a major issue The requirements around winter grazing on forage crops, low-slope land mapping and certified farm plans are the big issues being raised by farmers in relation to the new essential freshwater rules.

“We have been talking to farmers since the rules were released on August 5, including a webinar with over 300 farmers, and significant concerns are being raised about the practicality of some rules,” says Beef + Lamb NZ CEO Sam McIvor.

“B+LNZ is working hard to provide clarity and guidance to farmers so that you can understand your options, plan for the future, and get on with the business of farming. While we support farmers, we are also strongly advocating for changes at the national and regional level and for workable solutions with regional councils in your local areas.

“Farmers’ most immediate concerns are the stringent rules around winter grazing of forage crops. In particular, the pugging rules and resowing dates, which mean it is likely winter grazing on forage crops will either need a certified freshwater farm plan or require a consent next year.

“We know this is top of mind as farmers are starting to think about paddock and crop selection now. We are aiming to do a deep dive on what you need to think about for winter grazing in our e-diary. We encourage farmers to think about strategic winter grazing

principles and consider how these can be applied to your operations.”

The new rules require a setback/ buffer of five metres.

“Getting clarity on how regional councils will implement the rules and consenting processes is an urgent priority.

“We will be engaging closely with regional councils over the next month to seek a practical approach. We are also working on resources to provide advice to farmers on what they need to do.

“Most farmers have been working hard on winter grazing management.

Farmers understand the environmental risks and are making changes, but time and practicalities are key considerations for successful change.

“The government’s amendments of the winter grazing rules around ‘small pugging’ (meaning five centimetres deep) has provided a small point of certainty, but this hasn’t changed the overall effect. We will continue to advocate for more practical changes that still deliver better freshwater health outcomes.“ For more information, go to Essential Freshwater Consultation at beeflambnz. com.

Need a contractor for your...

Molasses - GET IT TODAY! ALSO • Dried Distillers Grains • Soy Bran Hulls • PKE FOR COMPETITIVE PRICES, PROMPT AND RELIABLE SERVICE

Phone Nutritional Services Ltd 0800 278 214

• Truck & Digger work • Earthworks • House Section, Orchard & Farm Drainage • Trenching • General Cartage Aggregate and Sand Bark and Mulch Compost and Topsoil Green Waste Disposal Growing Media

Covering Northland Wide

Driver Laser

Drainage

www.waipapalandscapesupplies.com

09 407 6668 12D Pataka Lane

Call Karl 0800 932 206 Mobile: 027 493 2206

SAFETY FIRST

Beef + Lamb NZ CEO Sam McIvor

Just off SH10 in Waipapa Turn off by PGG Wrightsons

ON THE FARM

For all your Agricultural needs

• Spraying • Bulk & Bag Fertiliser

Give us a call for competitive prices!

PH 09 431 8590 • BEN 027 692 1188 • RALPH 027 650 4812

TE MOANA GLOW SHOW! will be at Te Ahu, KAITAIA, September 28/29!

TE MOANA GLOW SHOW! will be at Turner Centre, KERIKERI, October 12/13!

TE MOANA GLOW SHOW! will be at Forum North, WHANGAREI, November 30, December 1 & 2!

SEPT/OCT SCHOOL HOLIDAYS! 10.00am & 11:30am on 28th, 29th – 2 days only!

TICKETEK PREMIUM (09) 307 5058 www.ticketek.co.nz Door sales available at Te Ahu

TERM 4 - WEEK 1 10.00am & 11:30am daily – 2 days only!

Group Bookings (20+) call iTICKET (09) 361 1000 www.iticket.co.nz

TERM 4 - WEEK 8 10.00am & 11:30am daily – 3 days only!

Group Bookings (10+) or Schools’ Invoicing call TICKETEK PREMIUM (09) 307 5058 www.ticketek.co.nz

Shows are 50 mins long with a Q&A afterwards – meet the actors! Tickets $10.50pp + fees (adult same price as child)!

Email us for more information at hello@glowshow.co.nz

DON’T MISS OUT!

Te Moana Glow Show is proudly presented by Little Green Man Productions & Fuzzy Duckling Media. www.facebook.com/glowshowco

3

4

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

SURVIVED TO TELL THE STORY

by Ann van Engelen

Lifestyle block and deer farm owner John Vujcich has lived and worked in the rural community for many years, is a Far North District Councillor and has a story of survival to tell.

PART TWO

A

fter a farming accident where he lost his right foot in September 2013, John is now very aware of the lifesaving services the Northland Rescue Helicopters provide.

“I was in a wheelchair for a while and am coping well with missing a foot. I now understand the difficulties of those who are in the Paralympics,” says John.

“You get an appreciation of what people live with every day — mine is an artificial foot. I can’t do the nine-second 100-metre sprint anymore, not that I could before but I can do most things.

“If it wasn’t for the rescue chopper I would certainly not have survived. One of the pilots recently told my brother

Peter, a doctor, that rescue-chopper pilot Sue Dinkelacker established an exclusive club for those who have been rescued by helicopter.

“It helps raise awareness and funds for the organisation. I immediately joined and became their first member.

I think it is very fitting considering they saved my life. I encourage all those who have been rescued by the service to join. It doesn’t matter where in the country, or world, you were rescued. It is a great initiative — you can get more information at Haastclub.com.”

The Haast Club membership is a way to commemorate a personal rescue with the logo being the Haast eagle.

SILO & BULK DELIVERIES Silo deliveries of Stock feed and Fertiliser.

Bulk deliveries of palm kernel, woodchip, sawdust and post peelings.

Being an amputee, John says he has a new appreciation for people who are involved in events such as the Paralympics “The purpose of the club is to offer a tangible ‘legacy-quality’ collectable to remind you of your experience, and create a talking point to share your story while raising funds for New Zealand Rescue Helicopter Trusts,” says Sue. “Many different types of helicopters have saved people over the last halfa-century. Helicopter-shaped artwork would be recognised as a specific

chopper, whereas an eagle symbolises them all. Inspired by the eagle that snatched Gandalf to safety in the Tolkien stories, the Haast Club artworks depict the largest eagle ever to have existed in the world, the extinct New Zealand Haast’s eagle.”

John has been a councillor at the Far North District Council since September 2013 and lives on a lifestyle block

Call Dan: 021 407 255 PO Box 253, Kerikeri

JOHN DEERE 100 SERIES RIDE-ON MOWERS

will create a ring fenced dedicated fund for road sealing with a subsidy of 80% for Northland.

E110 • • • • •

19Hp StartINg 42” cut width $ 1” to 4” cut height Hydrostatic transmission 2 year / 120 hour, bumper to bumper warranty^

from

4,278 INCL GST

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL CERVUS EQUIPMENT BRANCH TO LEARN MORE!

Matt King Northland’s hardworking local MP Authorised by Matt King, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

0800 333 734

CervusEquipment.co.nz ^Warranty term limited to years or hours used, whichever comes first and varies by model. Image is for illustrative purposes only.

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

Rescue-chopper pilot Sue Dinkelacker sculpted the Haast Eagle emblem when she established the exclusive club for people rescued by helicopter farming 400 deer. “We moved from beef into deer, as the property isn’t that large.

What affected me most was working off-farm, I couldn’t be there when the cows were with calving to help them.

Deer fawn in November and December and they go off alone and give birth and don’t need assistance.

“My son went into dairy farming and won North Canterbury dairy trainee of the year. He now runs the property. Deer are lovely animals that look intelligent and are intelligent. They are lovely to be around, and young deer make fantastic pets.

“You should never trust sexually mature males.

“You need good sheds, fences and the proper facilities to manage them and you need proper two-metre deer fences.

They are good animals for the volcanic

soil we have. We get a lot of rain, and they are light-footed, so your pasture loss from pugging is much reduced.

They like to wallow in the mud and can go places cows can’t so all waterways need to be fenced, or they make a mess of your drains.”

John has a very strong interest in progressing local communities.

“I was involved in setting up initiatives to help communities help themselves and often looked at how technology could help,” he says.

“I went into the council to try and improve the governance as I think there is some weakness in councils. I am actively involved in the governance and empowerment of communities and believe we should empower our local community boards. I look at how councils work in general and how the

John is the first member to join of the Haast Club, a club established exclusively for those rescued by the rescue helicopter services spending of rates can be better to avoid wastage. I believe in localism because it shifts the decision-making as close as possible to the affected communities.

“From a farming point of view, I believe all of Northland has huge potential. Due to Covid, the importance of farming has recently been recognised for their resilience and ability to supply products to high-value overseas markets, which will be important for New Zealand’s

future. With quite a small investment, the underutilised land can become very productive.

“Farmers are doing their bit and appreciate the environment. They love it as I did when I moved back. I believe small farming is still a major player in our economy.

“New Zealand produces safe, goodquality food, and on the world stage we need to take advantage of that.”

You’ll love our

OUTDOOR FIRES Transform your outdoor living space with warmth and ambience. Come and see our great selection of Fires and Heaters.

OUTDOOR HEATING Biological Fertilisers

Solid and Liquid FERTILISERS Liquid BioChar Humus Builder Cal-Phos Increase soil humus and biological activity - from $15 /ha Soil Force Biological Phosphate Fertiliser Re-Charge Nano-Cal Multi-Cal Calcium-Carbon Fertilisers Stock Primer – Mineralised Carbon Drench Build immunity, suppress pathogens; e.g. Rotovirus, E. Coli, for as little as 4c /cow/day Humates/Humic Acid/Fulvic Acid Increased water retention/nutrient release New Biological Controls for - Cricket, Cicada, Argentine Stem Weevil, Clover Flea - all added into solid and liquid fertiliser programmes.

Biological PSA management options.

Reams Soil Testing, Home Garden Fertiliser P: 0800 867 6737 M: 022 061 0734 E: info@ef.net.nz W: www.ef.net.nz

5

mowers&more GATMANS

Cnr HBC Highway & East Coast Rd, SILVERDALE (Kings Plantbarn complex) l Ph: 09 426 5612 www.gatmans.co.nz - OPEN 7 DAYS Mon to Fri 8.30 to 5pm; Sat 9am-3pm; Sun 10am-2pm

6

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

Passionate about equestrian Jess Brennan grew up on Waiheke Island and at 13 years old attended Whangarei Girls’ High School as a live-in student and now is a chef, farmer and equestrian care professional.

Jess Brennan has had many years experience in the equestrian industry

by Ann van Engelen

“I

sland life was fantastic, you could take your horse everywhere including the shop, the beach and the bush until dark,” says Jess.

“Dad worked on an oil rig in New Guinea and was often away. I grew up learning to ride at a riding centre as my parents are not horsey at all. I would

collect the horse poo and annoy the owner, Mary Richards until she would let me ride. Later I used her ponies for shows and things.

“Mary was an amazing woman, and I really appreciate all she did for us that she taught. She made a huge impact on a lot of children in my era. Some children don’t have very good family situations

and horses are such good therapy. They can be kind and very accepting. I loved to cook, and when I finished my schooling moved to Auckland and studied to be a chef at Manukau Institute of Technology.

I had a milk run job and then worked at McDonalds, and a workmate took me horse riding.

“Previous to that I met Heather Flynn, a racehorse trainer. She taught me to ride track work and hurdles and to work young thoroughbreds. When I was 17 years old, she got me a job in

Sydney, Australia at Muskoka Farms.

I worked pre-training, breaking in and preparing racehorses. After one season I transferred to Glenn Logan Park Stud in Queensland and got the bug for moving around to upskill. I was responsible for yearling preparations and helped with the Magic Millions race on the Gold Coast. I also worked at an endurance centre with Arab horses, which was scary because they are bred for long distances in the Middle East. It was all about fitness and agility, and they go everywhere,

SHOP ONLINE www.stihlshop.co.nz | HOME DELIVERY AND CLICK & COLLECT OPTIONS AVAILABLE HS 56 C-E 600MM PETROL HEDGETRIMMER

3.3kW / 64.1cc / 6.2kg Guide Bar 50cm (20”) Chain Type 3/8 Rapid Micro C

0.65kW / 21.4cc / 4.5kg Tooth Spacing 34mm

NOW

NOW

$865

$1,387

FS 85 R PETROL BRUSHCUTTER 0.95kW / 25.4cc / 5.0kg

NOW

$691

MS 391 (20") FARM BOSS® PETROL CHAINSAW

FS 55 C-E PETROL LINETRIMMER with EasyStart 0.75kW / 27.2cc / 5.2kg

NOW

$474

HSA 56 BATTERY HEDGETRIMMER

BGA 56 BATTERY BLOWER

36V / 2.9kg Without Battery Cutting Length 450mm Run Time Up To 50 minutes*

36V / 2.1kg Without Battery Max Air Flow Rate 600m3/h Run Time Up To 25 minutes*

NOW

NOW

NOW

NOW

KIT PRICE

TOOL ONLY

KIT PRICE

TOOL ONLY

$387 $239

$387 $239

Kit includes tool, AK 20 Battery and AL 101 Charger

Kit includes tool, AK 20 Battery and AL 101 Charger

HLA 56 BATTERY LONG REACH HEDGETRIMMER

MSA 120 C-B BATTERY CHAINSAW KIT

36V / 3.8kg Without Battery Total Length 210cm Run Time Up To 100 minutes^

NOW

NOW

KIT PRICE

TOOL ONLY

$600 $413

135

Ø

36V / 2.2kg Without Battery Standard Guide Bar 12” (30cm) Chain Type 1/4” Picco Micro 3 Run Time Up To 40 minutes*

NOW

$500 KIT PRICE $395 TOOL ONLY

Kit includes tool, AK 20 Battery and AL 101 Charger Kit includes tool, AK 20 Battery and AL 101 Charger Offers on selected STIHL products and valid from 01 September 2020 until 30 November 2020 or while stocks last. Terms and conditions apply. Home delivery and click & collect available. See online for details.

STIHL SHOP WARKWORTH, 32 Whitaker Road, Warkworth, 09 425 7772 STIHL SHOP WHANGAREI, 17 Reyburn Street, Whangarei, 09 438 8841 STIHL SHOP SILVERDALE, 6 Flexman Place, Silverdale, 09 426 5414 STIHL SHOP WAIPAPA, Shop 1 The Palm Klinac Lane, Waipapa, 09 407 6140 www.stihlshop.co.nz

LOVE YOUR LAND

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

7

Teaching children and adults to give their horses quality care is a priority to Jess Heatley Road Riding Centre also offer pony rides and birthday parties as well as online lesson advice

including up goat cliffs. I went on to manage an equine quarantine centre for export in Sydney. There was a lot of high energy and aggressive stallions and colts. I then studied equine nursing and got my certificate and picked up work grooming for polo in a town called Elliston owned by Kerry Packer. That was an amazing experience, and I worked for some very good patrons. The royal family held their tournament there. The stables were made of sandstone with polished concrete floors and expensive artwork on the walls. I came back to New Zealand and worked at Ag Dairy. I eventually married and dairy farmed for 12 years.

“My ex-husband and I moved to Kaiwaka and due to the bad payout season a few years ago gained work at the Three Furlongs pub. I created the original menu when they reopened the establishment.

“I then took a step away from everything and worked at The Vet Centre as a nurse technician, and I met Helen Connett, who inspired me. She events every weekend and gave me her two-star mare to ride for a season and reignited my passion for horses.

“I helped a few friends learn to ride and did three years volunteering with riding for the disabled, helping children with special needs such as anxiety. A

BRANDERSON HOMES LTD PRE BUILT HOMES

friend suggested I teach horse riding and I started with a couple of children that had their own ponies. My partner Korey Fergus helped me purchase two horses, which I trained and they turned out to be amazing. Korey is a huge support. He helps with the maintenance, fencing and all the hard work.

“Horses, in general, are awesome animals, and what they can provide people is huge. I work with retired thoroughbred racehorses, and if they are suitable, I keep them or give them a good calm base to be rehomed.

I have nine horses in total and more coming to provide weekly lessons with boys, girls and adult classes. They learn everything from catching, brushing, foot care and saddling to riding. It is basic level and prepares people for

their own horse or pony. Safety and horsemanship are important as is being able to communicate with your animal and putting their gear on. They then find a more advanced instructor to further their experience.

“I teach good communication, teamwork, and responsibility, not just riding and helping each other is all part of it.

“I also do pony rides and birthday parties and am doing an online service through my Heatley Road Riding Centre Facebook page to offer personalised lessons.

“Korey and I are finishing our arena with the aim to offer riding for the disabled. Ultimately having the right temperament horses is what makes a riding centre a success.”

SIS BALL COCK VALVE Price $99.50+GST EACH Freight free anywhere in NZ • Buy 10 receive 12 and 2x service kits • 3 models available – all the one price • Nearly indestructible • Only NZ Manufacturer providing lifetime guarantee on the body of the ballcock

OFFICE LOCATED AT: 37 HAUTAPU RD, CAMBRIDGE � TELEPHONE: 07 827 3901 Email: branderson.homes@xtra.co.nz ������������������� Web: www.brandersonhomes.co.nz Please send us an information pack about your Transportable Pre-Built Homes Name Address Phone __________________________ Style/Size Please mail to: Branderson Homes Ltd, PO Box 434, Cambridge, 3450

www.sisballcock.co.nz | 0800 175 720 Only available direct from manufacturer

YOUR LOCAL HELICOPTER SERVICE AND SPRAY DRONE SUPPLIERS

AERIAL WORK Gorse and brushweed spraying. Urea on Maize and crop spraying.

Bulk or bagged Fertiliser.

MULTISPECTRAL CROP ANALYSIS.

Our customers come first

DRONES Specialising in agricultural drones, we are the Australasian dealer for HSE UAV’S and approved dealer for YUNEEC and DJI.

CERTIFIED TRAINING PACKAGES AVAILABLE.

0800 435 684

8

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

Seizing an opportunity

by Ann van Engelen Brandon Cross was born in Gisborne and has worked his way up to an orchard management position for kiwifruit orchard and post-harvest company Seeka through a chance meeting.

T

he 24-year-old is an entrant in the Ahuwhenua Awards and encourages other young people across the country to consider horticulture as a career.

“After leaving school, I started to study at Victoria University in Wellington for a degree in commerce. I didn’t like the thought of spending another three years in a classroom and after two months left and headed home,” says Brandon.

“I was introduced to Michael Franks, the CEO of Seeka, and he offered me the chance to join his company, so I did. I moved to the Bay of Plenty a few months later. The work is based around the kiwifruit capital of New Zealand, Te Puke and Paengaroa.

“I grew up in the city. My parents are from up the coast, and my mum’s dad

was a farmer, but I had no experience on farms or orchards before this opportunity. I am now in my sixth year here. When I first started with another cadet Levi, I had no specific interest in horticulture but have developed a passion for the industry. As a cadet and trainee manager, I was involved in a range of tasks especially during the harvest.”

That included driving tractors and forklifts and working in the packhouse.

“We undertook vine management including organising sprays, fertilisers, structural maintenance and cultural plant practices.

“The first couple of years were hard because I was still in school mode and wanted to chill with my mates and only worked for the paycheck.

Brandon is now a manager and as an Ahuwhenua Awards contestant is looking forward to the competition results “I am glad the company put us through the hard yards first. It gave us an appreciation for the workers who do the mundane and hard manual labour jobs. This is the only job I have had so I couldn’t compare it to other work. I just thought it was hard.”

Brandon and Levi worked with the international workers, and he says they are great to compare to for working hard.

“We worked in the packhouse lifting 20-kilogram boxes all day if we were stacking. You get tired and cherish your days off. In the orchard, during winter you prune every day for three months.

If you do just a week, it is easy, but pushing hard non-stop for three months is hard.

“We planned to get where we are today. The cadetship started in November 2014 as a trial. We studied horticulture with Primary ITO to get advanced level four alongside our three years of training under senior managers as our mentors.

“We experienced every single job, including the processing in the cool stores. We operated all the machines, graded, packed and stacked the fruit to understand every aspect of the

Chris Penk MP I have greatly enjoyed the chance to help many wonderful people since I was first elected as an MP. I’m here to help you. When you see me out and about in the area, please do stop and say hi.

chris.penk@national.org.nz Authorised by C Penk, 365 Main Road, Huapai, Auckland

chrispenk.national.org.nz

@christopherpenk

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

9

Brandon Cross says he took a punt when he was offered a cadetship with Seeka working in a kiwifruit orchard operation. We began supervising in the second year, including orchard pruning and quality control. In our third year, we learnt organising, making decisions and running teams of staff. We then moved into managing more staff and one block of our own under a mentor.

“I had never seen a kiwifruit on a vine before. I was asking thousands of questions a day to make sure I understood everything, including pollination and cultural practices. The vines, maintenance and structural work

are also vital. To start an orchard, we do the blocks, posts, wires and ag beam.

Plant a shelter hedge or use shelter cloth for wind reduction. We plant the grafted kiwifruit plants or bare and graft the variety later in the configuration of a row of female plants and then a row of males. We fertilise, condition the soil and string the vines in spring.”

The vines grow up toward the sun during summer, and the leaves drop in winter. “These are pulled down to create leaders along the lead wires, and the

process is repeated the next year until the shoots grow up the strings and you get fruit. The process is repeated to create and maintain a kiwifruit orchard.

“It is a fun job, and I enjoy the harvest. A big part of my success was meeting people of other ethnicities from all over the world, working together to get the job done. My favourite fruit is the green kiwifruit as it is not as sweet as

Authorised Distributors and Service Agents for

The Constant Angle Knife Sharpening System

ARE YOU BUILDING A BOAT, OR JUST DOING SOME MAINTENANCE? Do you need to replace a door latch, or redo all the wiring and plumbing aboard? Are you planning a fishing trip or a holiday with the family?

At Cater Marine, we stock a wide selection of products for leisure and commercial yachts and launches from Anchors to Zincs and everything in between. We also offer dive refills.

the gold, but other people love the gold.

I have recently become a full manager with more hectares and an increased portfolio. I am looking forward to the Ahuwhenua Awards results. Seeka has looked after us, and we are giving back to them, it is a two-way street. They have invested so much into us, and I really appreciate the opportunity. I took a punt on the job and am pleased I did.”

PRECISION

Diesel Industrial Motors, Pumps and Generators Designed for Residential, Commercial, Industrial and Rural applications.

SERIES

The indexed rotating clamping system 3 Angle adjustments 12°, 20°, 25° Your knife is always in the same place • High Grade Stainless Steel • Hygienic • Easy Care

diesel For competitive prices and excellent after sales service contact

We’ll match their price and throw in a little thing called service!

Unit 16, Opua Marine Park Baffin Street, Opua Bay of Islands

www.catermarine.co.nz 0800 228 376

Deluxe Precision Kit Pictured

See our website for the full range www.scarysharp.co.nz Talk to the manufacturer toll free 0800 175 720

JB Marine Ltd Unit 3, Baffin St, The Powder Store, Opua Ph: 09 402 8375 or 027 498 4842 email: service@jbmarine.co.nz

CLAAS ARION 400 series 100 - 130 hp

STEP UP A

CLAAS TRACTOR SPECIAL FROM

0%

FINANCE*

3

YEARS

3000 HRS

WARRANTY

*Standard CLAAS Financial Services lending criteria, terms, conditions and fees apply. 0% p.a. on CLAAS tractors requires minimum 30% deposit followed by monthly repayments in arrears over 12 months. CLAAS Harvest Centre Warranty service Terms & Conditions apply. Offer valid until 30/09/2020 or while stocks last. Offer applies to in stock and on-order new CLAAS AXOS, ARION and AXION tractors only.

f f f f

4.5 L DPS engine QUADRISHIFT 16 forward/16 reverse gears 98 L hydraulic system Factory-fitted joystick options with CLAAS loaders

CLAAS ARION 600C series

140 - 165 hp f Six cylinder 6.8 L DPS engine f QUADRISHIFT 16 forward/16 reverse gears f 4-point cab suspension for unrivaled driver comfort f 98 L hydraulic system

CLAAS ARION 600 series

145 - 205 hp f f f f

Six cylinder 6.8 L DPS engine 4-point cab suspension for unrivaled driver comfort HEXASHIFT transmission & SMART STOP CIS+ and CEBIS touch allow greater flexibility and control

claasharvestcentre.com NORTHLAND 239-241 Port Rd, Whangarei Chris Duncan 021 460 802 Shane Powley 021 460 803

10

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

Matt King

MP for Northland I’m here to help you Email northland@parliament.govt.nz Phone 09 407 7219 Office 93 Kerikeri Road See what I’ve been up to facebook.com/mattkingmp mattking.national.org.nz

Matt King MP for Northland

National Party Associate Spokesperson for Transport and Regional Development (North Island)

I’m your local MP and I’m here to help My job is to advocate for you in the electorate and represent Northlanders in Parliament. Please get in touch with my office to make an appointment.

09 407 7219 @ northland@parliament.govt.nz mattkingmp Authorised by Matt King MP, 93 Kerikeri Road, Northland

Authorised by Matt King, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020 ADVERTORIAL

Early detection the best protection New statistics revealed by the Prostate Cancer Foundation show that almost 300 fewer men were diagnosed in March and April this year, due to New Zealand’s lockdown, when compared to the same period last year.

Early prostate testing is a priority for rural men just as it is for those in urban areas because this deadly cancer often has no symptoms, and the PSA blood test is the crucial first indicator.

In his role as medical adviser to PCFNZ, urologist Jim Duthie aims to reduce the number of men suffering from prostate cancer by expanding good testing throughout the country and encouraging early checks.

“Guys don’t see enough doctors,” Jim says bluntly. “So, when they do, it’s important they make the most of that appointment.”

Tackling a cancer that kills more than 600 Kiwi men each year is no small feat.

According to Health Navigator NZ, men who live in rural areas are at

greater risk than those who live in urban areas because they have less access to health services. The research also points to rural men having lower rates of screening than their urban counterparts.

Blue September is the Prostate Cancer Foundation New Zealand’s National Prostate Cancer Awareness month. The foundation is asking New Zealanders to hold a Blue Do to raise awareness and funds to join the fight against the disease.

It has never been more imperative for Kiwis to ‘go blue’ this Blue September to join the fight and raise funds for the special men in our lives — our mates, fathers, brothers, uncles and grandfathers.

Register your Blue Do or donate at blueseptember.org.nz.

For all your bulk water needs

HOUSEHOLD WATER DELIVERIES

Andrew 021 714 660

ADVERTORIAL

The importance of coenzyme Q10

(Part three)

I recently wrote about coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), and I was surprised at the amount of contact from readers on the subject. Especially from those wanting help dealing with the side effects of cholesterol-lowering medication.

Studies show that statins can reduce circulating CoQ10 by as much as 50%. The side effects are so common they are called ‘statin myopathy’.

The main side effects are muscle and tendon weakness, which can be felt as muscle stiffness and pain.

The effect on nerves can impact memory and mood, and there’s comment about general lethargy. In most cases, two months of a quality CoQ10 will reduce these side effects and allow people to get the benefits of the medication without side effects.

The chemical structure of CoQ10 allows it to move high energy electrons within our cell mitochondria where energy is made. CoQ10 collects these electrons and transfers them to an enzyme called ATP synthase to make the energy we need.

I prescribe CoQ10 for several reasons most commonly for statin support. I also add CoQ10 for those fatigued without medical causes and for those with cardiovascular, autoimmune and neurodegenerative

Superior absorption CoQ10 What is CoQsol®?

∙ CoQsol® is a patented rapid absorption form of CoQ10. ∙ CoQsol® is clinically proven to increase CoQ10. absorption and maintains blood levels over twice that of other forms. ∙ Each softgel contains 100mg CoQ10., 100IU of natural vitamin E and 2567 IU of natural mixed carotenoids.

Why supplement with CoQsol®?

Health Board Approved Drinking Water Right to Your Tank 7 days

After hours: 09 438 7141 • water2go@hotmail.com BEST BUY!

FOR CANCER

PROSTATE

3 bottles for $134.85 ($44.95 each) freight free or 1 bottle for $49.95 plus post $4.99.

Each bottle contains 60 softgels which is 2 months’ supply for 1 adult.

Register your Blue Do or make a donation at blueseptember.org.nz #BlueDoThingee

problems. For example, I include at least 100mg for those with Polymyalgia Rheumatica and higher doses for those with MS. For statins support, I use a highquality patented US CoQ10 and for inflammatory problems, my mitochondrial support formula, that includes high-grade Kaneka CoQ10 with a number of energy cofactors. It is interesting that the first improvement felt by those with these conditions is a lift in energy and general wellbeing.

Those with inflammator y conditions, especially autoimmune problems, should be working to a personalised diet and supplement plan complementary to their regular medical treatment. Most people feel a real difference within three months.

John Arts (B.Soc.Sci, Dip Tch, Adv. Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on 0800 423 559 or email john@abundant.co.nz. Join his all-new newsletter at abundant.co.nz.

Abundant Health CoQsol®

• Free quotes • Whangarei district and all coastal areas • Experienced operators • Swimming pools • 3,500 Ltr mini tank available • 2 x 10,000 Litre Trucks

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in New Zealand men, and 1 in 8 men will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime.

Let’s help fight this by throwing a Blue Do.

11

∙ CoQ10. is an important antioxidant that can protect ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol. ∙ CoQ10. is an essential part of our energy conversion – much like spark plugs in your car engine. ∙ CoQ10. levels decline with age and can be restricted by some medications and health problems.

What does CoQsol® do?

∙ Supports heart muscle function and normal heart rhythm ∙ Promotes good circulation ∙ Helps maintain normal blood pressure ∙ Promotes normal, healthy energy release ∙ Added vitamin E supports cardiovascular health ∙ Added lutein and zeaxanthin supports eye health ∙ Provides extra CoQ10. for those on statin medication Caution: Always read the label and use only as directed.

If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional.

John Arts, Founder, Abundant Health Ltd

TO ORDER PHONE: 0800 423 559 Abundant Health

Or order online at www.abundant.co.nz or post a cheque to Abundant Health Ltd, PO Box 4347, Mt Maunganui South, 3149

EITHER WAY IT’S 20K

mIND YOUr SpeeD ArOUND SCHOOL bUSeS

12

September 2020 NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

13

TYING THE KNOT A wedding checklist Your wedding is one of the happiest days of your life, but the planning can be daunting and many who have gone through the process before would say, it is best to begin the process early.

Whether you have two years or two months to plan, starting in advance will help eliminate some of the stress as you build up to your special day. Don’t make endless lists in your head or on a piece of paper, but use a step-by-step wedding planning timeline to help you document and prioritise the things you need to do.

The essential items include booking a marriage celebrant, wedding venue and caterer if needed. Check out photographers and the various styles of photos they take, decide on the cake you like, the style of wedding dress, men’s suits and bridesmaid’s outfits.

Organise your guest list and plan your honeymoon if you are having one. Three months before your wedding arrange the legalities if our celebrant doesn’t do that for you.

When looking for your wedding dress, remember a lot of bridal boutiques consider anything less than six months a rush order. Bridesmaids no longer have to be in matching outfits. Many brides now have a chosen colour with the bridesmaids choosing their own style dress for the day.

Although each wedding is different, brides can organise their whole wedding in just 10 weeks. Once you draw up your

Bev Weber | MCANZ | Marriage Celebrant

“Professional assistance and guidance so that your special ceremony is everything you both want it to be”

09 406 2088 • 027 429 6100 www.marriageceremonies.co.nz bev@marriageceremonies.co.nz

Your wedding day is often classed as one of the most important days of your life

budget, try to stick to it. Although it is your special day, you do not want to be paying for it for years to come.

It is common nowadays to hire a wedding planner as they help create weddings every week and eliminate a lot of pressure. On the day of the wedding, they ensure all runs to plan for you.

Remember, there are many people who have married before you. Call them for ideas or advice but it is your day, and ultimately you need to ensure you have it your way.

Your wedding day is the first day to the rest of your life, to new adventures and often a fresh beginning. It is a day that you may choose to hold family traditions in one way or another or do something totally unique. There is no right way or wrong way to start your married life together. What matters most is that you and your partner enjoy your day so that in years to come, you can look back and say — yes, it was a great day.

Wash your hands

Fresh Flower Bouquets and gift ideas • Wedding and cake accessories

Indulge yourself and your guests by celebrating your special occasion within the beautiful tranquil surrounds of the countryside. Take advantage of having everything in one location, yet personally styled to capture your beautiful day.

• Venue dressing • Balloons, cards & soft toys • Flowering Plants

Private gardens for special occasions Phone Fiona 021 452 280 www.willowsonabbey.co.nz

p. 09 401 1706 | bobflorist@xtra.co.nz 97A Broadway, Kaikohe

The look that makes you feel good!

Stockists of: Vassalli, Verge, Joseph Ribkoff, Loobies Story, Desigual, David Pond, Lemon Tree, Maison Scotch and much more, including Professional make up by Wendy Hill Cosmetics.

09 407 9477 64C Kerikeri Rd, Kerikeri www.i-stylekerikeri.com

Want to get married in a rural setting that feels like home, but with less hassle? Book Barge Showgrounds Events Centre.

Set within one of Whangarei’s most beautiful park-like settings, Barge Showgrounds Events Centre offers a flexible, spacious venue with an ‘at home feel’.

Chairs, tables, linen, crockery & glassware for 180 guests.

What are you waiting for? Book today!

WEDDINGS • CONFERENCES • EVENTS www.bargeshowgrounds.co.nz 09 438 3109 • 474 Maunu Road, Whangarei

14

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

Greg Campbell Wedding Photography is husband and wife team Greg and Cat. We are full-time wedding photographers and videographers based in Mangawhai. As Northlanders, we know all the local venues and have close relationships with the best vendors in the industry. We always strive to be relaxed and professional in doing the thing that we love most... photographing amazing, happy people in beautiful locations on their special day.

www.gregcampbell.photo | info@gregcampbell.photo

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

15

TYING THE KNOT A homegrown wedding Weddings on a budget are not uncommon throughout the world today and picking grandma’s flowers are becoming a popular sight in wedding bouquets and buttonholes.

Wearing grandma’s or mum’s wedding dress that may have been altered has also added to the romance of many wedding occasions. It is not uncommon to have grandma’s dahlias or roses as the main flower in the bouquet, or on the tables at the reception.

An outdoor event can be just as spectacular as a church or function room ceremony. People choose garden settings, beachside locations and even the family farm for their special day.

If your budget is tight, get a few friends to bring their camera along, with one having the main camera. Add your favourite farm animals, whether that be cows, dogs, horses or sheep, utilise hay bales, the tractor or the family homestead as a backdrop.

Research ideas for photos online; there are many stunning shots that have been taken by amateur photographers.

A graffiti wall in your local community can add colour. Also check for school students or hobby photographers in your local area who may like the experience at a low cost to you.

Contact of local theatre group if you want an unusual theme, or hire your bridal outfits, although it is not uncommon to go to the op shops or retail outlet stores to find beautiful suitable attire.

Choosing your reception food can also be just as much fun on a budget.

Local restaurants can at times deliver your chosen menu, or BBQs, bring a plate and hangi are still an acceptable way to cater.

Choose your menu and request each guest to bring an item off the menu — this is a fun way to include everyone with the feast.

• Botox • Fillers • Derma needling • Hair Removal IPL • Makeup • Skincare • Facials • Manicures/Pedicures • Spray tans • Waxing • Eye works • Body treatments/massage • Pigmentations Treatments • Acne treatments Shop 8 Quality Street, Whangarei Ph: 09 430 2201 M: 021 385 182 E: facedoctorsnorthland@gmail.com W: www.facedoctorsnorthland.co.nz

If children are coming along for your special day, to help everyone enjoy the celebrations even more, consider hiring a children’s entertainer. Have a special area set aside where they have their own activities. Hire a few local youth to help babysit them and have a children’s food table set up. Face painting, balloons and old-fashioned games, such as pin the tail on the donkey will help make your wedding a treasured memory for the children attending.

Don’t forget older people in your life may love to bake the cake. Gone are the days of a wedding cake being fruit, you can have chocolate, carrot or lemon meringue pie if that is what you want.

Cake is now also considered a fine dessert item too.

Quality Menswear and Suit Hire for all occasions 2 Rust Ave, Whangarei Ph: 09 438 8135 • www.whangareisuithire.co.nz

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Reia Taipa Beach, Doubtless Bay For a total tropical wedding experience and honeymoon, without leaving New Zealand, the Ramada Resort by Wyndham Reia Taipa Beach is the place to go. For superb accommodation, award-winning chefs, stunning ceremony locations, your own wedding coordinator and fantastic service, nothing is too much trouble. Relax by the beach the team at Ramada will take care of the rest.

Ramada Resort by Wyndham Reia Taipa Beach 22 Taipa Point Road, Doubtless Bay. Freephone 0800 142 TAIPA (82472) Email reservations@ramadataipa.co.nz | www.ramadataipa.co.nz

If you have a million dollars or a very tight budget for your special day, there are ways to make your wedding day memorable and just the way you like it.

Avoid Drink Driving be tHe SOBER D FOr A NIGHt

Visit Botanica Whangarei to experience lush tropical jungle, dry arid desert, a superb New Zealand native fernery with a specialised filmy fern house, Japanese style garden and a shade garden.

Free admission to all areas. Wheelchair accessible.

Available for weddings and other functions.

Next to Cafler Park and the Whangarei Rose Gardens, just a short walk to the City Centre.

First Avenue, Whangarei | P 09 430 4200 | www.wdc.govt.nz

16

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

Vivid memoir takes flight

by Andy Bryenton

Contract saw-milling Buying Macrocarpa, jap cedar and Leyland cypress logs

www.portablesawmills.co.nz

T, WORK, P EA L Y,

AY

BU

021 791 457 • cluniesawmilling@gmail.com

THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING LOCAL

If you’re reading this publication, it’s a fair bet that you enjoy a true tale of Kiwi farming adventures. Through the years we’ve brought you a fair few, but none, perhaps, with the scope of the life story of the ‘flying farmer’, Bruce Galloway.

In his recently published memoir, Bruce lays out a life full of rural adventures, on horseback, motorcycle, tractor, truck, and ultimately in the air.

As befits his nickname, Bruce has plenty of stories to tell about traversing the rural countryside on wings. He’s survived some hair-raising scrapes in the process, including the devastating crash of his Cessna 182.

Here you’ll find a colloquial chronology from childhood through to adult life, spanning 11 farms and an enormous cast of colourful family and friends as characters. Reading through this volume is like talking to an old mate over a few cold pints; informal, humorous and sometimes touchingly nostalgic, but with a core of irreverent Kiwi good cheer. The photos, which bracket the text, seem taken right from a family photo album, and likely were.

Fans of early Barry Crump will hear some echoes here, if only in the way that each adventure is neatly encapsulated and laid out in simple terms with a clear and warm ‘voice’. People who religiously tune into Country Calendar will find an equivalent here in text

REMARKABLE RECOLLECTIONS ...a book you won’t put down!

Bruce Galloway looks back at a series of adventures, scrapes, achievements, anecdotes and escapades which span a lifetime of Kiwi farming, 11 farms and the view from a tractor, truck and aeroplane!

Bruce, the ‘flying farmer’ recounts the funny, touching, nostalgic and exciting times from a remarkable life in a way that will keep you turning pages til the small hours.

The ‘flying farmer’, Bruce Galloway, at home with a copy of his mercurial and entertaining memoir

which paints a picture as vivid as any video. Those who have worked the land in New Zealand in the post-war years will certainly find some resonance with the ‘flying farmer’ and his tale of trials, triumphs, family and farming spanning everything from shearing to kiwifruit and, of course, cattle.

‘The best memoirs are told without the need to self-aggrandise, and seek to entertain on the surface while educating with little truths between the words’.

That was the opinion of the publishers of Theodore Roosevelt’s autobiography, and it’s as true today as it was when that tome was written. The Flying Farmer

DRIVE SAFE On Rural Roads

may not tackle matters of state, but its warm and down-to-earth tone, and real-life quality makes it a proper pageturner. Broken up into short anecdotes and reminiscences; it’s easy to get lost in Mr Galloway’s writing and realise that the hands of the clock have slipped a fair way along.

To say too much more of the content of this memoir would spoil the surprises. However, suffice to say, that it’s a tremendous achievement to have committed so much memory to paper, and a tremendous read for those who are fortunate enough to leaf through a copy.

YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT’S AROUND THE CORNER

Buy books directly from Bruce, bank transfer or Credit Card. $55.00 includes postage within NZ

09 439 5495

TRAILER FOR SALE NEW BUILD NOT GALVANISED • Painted with corrodex and silver gal • 1200x1800 • With lift-off crate

$2300.00 09 431 7095 or 021 256 2528

TIME TO START THINKING ABOUT summer SERVICING

WINTER/SPRING sales STARTING now! y y y y

Lawnmowers Chainsaws Outdoor power equipment Parts Stockists & Service agents of:

+ MORE! 20 Porowini Avenue, Whangarei • Phone: 09 438 1143

Government gets its way with water pressure

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

by Matt King, Member of Parliament for Northland

Thousands of Northlanders can expect to pay more for their drinking water if the government manages to railroad, or bribe, our local councils into accepting its so-called Three Water Reforms.

Whilst reforms are often positive, this government’s attempts to have councils throughout the country agree to have the three waters, drinking water, stormwater and wastewater, services amalgamated into half a dozen giant entities will more than likely drive up the consumer cost of those services without materially improving them.

In fact, we may well see a reduction in those services if, for example, Northland’s three waters are run and controlled by Watercare in Auckland.

As a first step in the government’s plan to take control, Northland’s three district councils have signed up to a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to work on Three Waters reform.

The ‘sweetener’ is a $28 million infrastructure grant from the government split between the councils.

The rider is that to get the grant the councils have to agree to what the government wants.

No agreement — no money.

There is no doubt that three-water infrastructure in Northland needs to be upgraded. There is also no doubt that local councils don’t have the money to make any significant changes. That $28 million would come in handy. However,

YOUR BUSINESS?

09 439 6933 | 0800 466 793 • info@integrity.nz

at what cost? Why is there a rider there at all? Why do we have to sign away our local services to a remote entity such as Watercare who, when we look at their record, haven’t done such a crash-hot job in Auckland.

Who’s to say they would do any better up here — or even be interested in up here?

Kaipara Mayor Jason Smith says there is a sense of being strong-armed

Feed Pads for Dairy & Beef Covered & Uncovered Dry Scrape Option Clear Plastic Roof Covered Effluent Storage Customised Design from Experienced Feed Pad Builders

8/10 REWA REWA ROAD, WHANGAREI

 09 470 0650

DO YOU WANT TO

Advertising that works for you.

Cow Cafes & Beef Barns • • • • • •

17

 cameron@guycoconstruction.co.nz

www.guycoconstruction.co.nz

by the Government. Mayors John Carter (Far North District Council) and Sheryl Mai (Whangarei Council) have expressed their concerns.

They are right to do so. They are trying to protect ratepayers.

To me it is a case of the Labour leopard showing its true spots. Yet one more case of their pre-election lolly scramble coming with conditions.

In this case, our way or no way.

STAY HOME IF YOU’RE SICK

Our service can bring palm kernel, Urea or any bulk feed to your door or silo!

Maximise production this season!

LIVESTOCK FEED DELIVERIES FROM STORE TO SILO — WE MAKE IT EASY!

Ph: Jason Williamson 027 499 2530 or Yard 09 439 4950

18

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

So much at stake

by Lockwood Smith

For the first time in my life, I’m actually frightened of my country’s government. For someone who spent 29 years in parliament, and a minister for almost a decade, that may sound a bit odd, but I am.

It’s scary when a government chooses heavy handed-regulation when cost/benefit analyses aren’t robust, where implementation has been given scant consideration, and where the government just doesn’t have the experience to understand the risks around perverse outcomes.

The banning of offshore hydrocarbon exploration in 2018 was one example.

While reducing fossil fuel use makes good sense, hydrocarbons are used for a myriad of other purposes in our modern economy.

More focus on banning fossil fuel subsidies globally, could have done more good, but, of course, it wouldn’t look so bold.

If it was just that one decision, it might not be so frightening. However, the recent Action for Healthy Waterways regulations makes it clear that this government is more focussed on being seen to act, rather than doing what is really effective.

Again, no one denies the need to improve the health of our waterways.

However, it’s how it’s done that’s so important. While this government is clever at politics, it’s demonstrated repeatedly its inability to implement policy effectively.

The freshwater decisions not only ride roughshod over property rights that have underpinned economic success in western democracies for generations,

Dedicated to offering specialist solutions within the honey processing industry.

“From the hive to the shelf” “Our plant was built on time.

The quality of workmanship is excellent and their after sales service and friendly team are fantastic.“

Contact us to discuss your solution on 07 579 0082 or visit www.crystech.co.nz

Sir Lockwood Smith

but they’re so impractical that they’d be laughable if the costs of implementing them weren’t so serious.

These regulations would make the EU proud, but they’re not the New Zealand way. Our approach is spelt out in the CPTTP Trade Agreement in the chapter on good regulatory practice — that is outcome focussed and based on sound

Wash your hands

risk management. We wrote it, but have then ignored it.

Our government has chosen instead to dictate what you can do on your land. For example, I farm beef cows in a dairying area, but these regulations would prevent me from milking cows on my land like my neighbours. I couldn’t even sell land to a dairy farming

Portable Power Mini Trencher

Superfast

The Patented TerraTrencher is a dedicated Portable Power Mini Trencher that provides quick, easy, and versatile trench digging when and where you need it.

Robust mowers from 41” to 72” cut.

Made in USA since 1969.

First to finish. Built to last.

Call for a demonstration today.

Rapidly digs a trench 40mm wide, and up to 700mm deep, with little turf or ground disturbance, which allows for rapid back-filling and quick site cleanup.

Winner of multiple National Fieldays Invention Awards Terrasaw Industries Ltd 19A Andromeda Crescent, East Tamaki, Auckland ZTR Mowers

•

07 543 2700

•

www.ztr.co.nz

Phone 09 431 6400

Email: info@terrasaw.com www.terrasaw.com

“TerraTrencher” is a registered trademark

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

neighbour without a resource consent, which would be impossible to get.

Somehow, I’ll also have to get a resource consent for my sheltered sawdust pad that I’ve used for 20 years to calve my cows. It’s a valuable animal welfare asset, enabling them to calve in warmer, drier conditions. However, now, no drain will be allowed within 50 metres — with Northland’s rainfall!

Not sure, either, how I’ll measure the minimum surface permeability requirement of 10 to the minus 9 metres a second. I doubt whoever wrote this stuff has ever been near a farm. Little wonder some farmers are threatening to ignore the whole ridiculous mess.

Moreover, threats from ministers won’t make their deeply flawed regulations any more workable.

The frightening list goes on. How agriculture’s biological emissions are to

be brought into New Zealand’s carbon emissions reduction programme is also critically important.

If the government decides He Waka Eke Noa has made insufficient progress and brings agriculture into the existing Emissions Trading Scheme, the consequences could be dire.

The way the legislation is currently framed, it risks failing to reduce carbon emissions for each kilogram of agricultural product at all. Instead, it would just make New Zealand agriculture less competitive globally, and see higher global emissions from less carbonefficient food produced elsewhere.

Ruminant methane emissions are more significant in New Zealand than any other developed economy. Yet the government sticks to a flawed accounting system shown by the IPCC’s leading scientist in this area, Prof Miles

REVOLUTIONARY TOXIN-FREE POSSUM TRAP

Trapinator Possum Trap, result proven, join thousands of other happy customers. Easy to set and kill.

No toxins, uses safe bait. Purchase now from www.trapinator.com.

Passes Nawac humane guidelines!

NEW MUSTELID TRAP

Easy to catch and kill stoats, rats, weasels and hedgehogs. Fitted with a Doc 200 approved Humane Trap.

Trapinator™ Mustelid Trap has been designed to humanely kill stoats, rats, weasels and hedgehogs.

Approved and used by Department of Conservation.

It is lightweight, durable with flip open top for easy access. Perfect for large or small operators, this Mustelid trap makes pest kill and removal easy work.

Purchase now!

TRAPINATOR™ MUSTELID TRAP

To place your order or request more information email: sales@trapinator.com or visit: www.trapinator.com

or ph 09 579 4089 or stop in to our factory 7A Carmont Pl, Mt Wellington, Auckland

Allen, a physicist at Oxford, to seriously overestimate the global warming potential of methane.

An irrational government is frightening. They keep repeating the mantra that New Zealand has one of the higher carbon emissions profiles per capita of any country. The paradox is that if our economy was based on the export of oil, rather than food, we’d have one of the lowest.

You see, oil emissions are accounted for in the country that consumes it, while food emissions are accounted for in the country that produces it.

To add to their scrambled thinking, they allow fossil fuel emissions to be offset by blanketing good hill country farmland in pines. The environmental catastrophe of silt and slash that destroy our waterways at plantation harvesting are an affront to those who love and care for our land.

Ministers in significant portfolios, to do their job properly, have to work extraordinary hours. They are paid good money to do it. It means they should be right across the detail of how their policies will be implemented.

Relying on officials isn’t good enough. They rarely have the practical experience needed.

Anyone attending freshwater consultation meetings last year could see that. It’s why we have ministers in a democracy. They are meant to have the knowledge, experience in the wider world brings.

For farming right now, there’s so much at stake.

Wear a helmet.

A helmet is a must while riding a quad bike around the farm.

19

20

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

A Reason To Put Your Feet Up. “Other farmers don’t believe me when I say there is only one in the shed during mating, I tell them the collars do all the hard work for me.”

Thomas Scheres, Equity Partner in Scheres 420 cow family farm in Putaruru.

Allflex Smart Collars allow Thomas time off the farm during busy periods such as mating, allowing him more time with his family.

From people to animal health, management to mating, you’ll have a bunch of reasons why you need Allflex smart Collars. Just know that no matter what your ‘why’ is, we have got your back.

Finance

Deal

Subscription options available with SenseHub monitoring systems.

Contact us for a no-obligation free quote. For more details visit: www.the gamechanger.farm

For more information about Allflex Smart Collars visit www.thegamechanger.farm or contact your local Monitoring Specialists: Libby Monaghan Monitoring Sales Specialist Upper North Island, Hamilton 027 227 2611 libby.monaghan@allflex.co.nz

Trevor Ward Monitoring Sales Specialist Lower North Island, Palmerston North 027 556 7779 trevor.ward@allflex.co.nz

Jeff Hill Senior Monitoring Sales Specialist Upper South Island, Ashburton 027 585 4400 jeff.hill@allflex.co.nz

Grant Vickers Monitoring Sales Specialist Lower South Island, Dunedin 027 535 0934 grant.vickers@allflex.co.nz

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

21

22

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

• Irrigation • Fertigation

HORTICULTURE ADVERTORIAL

Maintaining harvest quality

• Water Supply • Drainage • Water Treatment • Effluent and Wastewater Dispersal Agwaters is an agent for most common brands.

We can provide you with a competitive design quote for all your Agricultural water needs. We have local service support and installation crews in the Far North backed by our fabrication workshop and engineering offices in the Bay of Plenty.

Come and see us at our Pukenui Store this summer

3890 FAR NORTH ROAD CONTACT: Peter Robinson EMAIL: peter@agwater.co.nz PHONE: 027 767 6761 COMPLIANCE | CONSENT | SURVEY DESIGN | BUILD | COMPLIANCE MANAGEMENT

Avocado harvesting for the 2020-21 season has kicked off in Northland. Quality is top of mind for exporters this season and Just Avocados is making sure their growers are reminded of best practice in the field and its impact on export packouts.

During a grower workshop held at Just Avocados’ Katikati packhouse in August, technical manager Erica Faber said that any damage caused to fruit during harvest affects fruit cosmetically and creates an entryway for pathogens, which can end up as postharvest rot and diseases.

“You have worked hard the whole season and put a lot of effort and investment into the fruit to ensure the best possible quality, your best packout and your best return. So you want to make sure you maintain that quality and that you don’t, at the last hurdle, negatively impact your packout by poor handling at harvest time.”

Erica said a major cause of reduced packout is lenticel damage, which happens when there is rain preceding harvest and fruit has not fully dried out.

“During rain, the cells around the lenticels take in water and swell up, almost like a balloon blown up to the point of bursting. Any bump or abrasion is going to cause that balloon to burst,

and that’s exactly what happens with those cells around the lenticel.

They burst during handling, causing browning and further quality problems at market.

“Lenticel damage manifests over a couple of days. At the end of a picking day, you may have seen about two per cent damage. By the time it gets to the packline, it can account for 20 per cent reduced packout.”

The NZ Avocado guideline is to avoid harvesting if more than five millimetres of rain has fallen in the last 24 hours.

Erica cautioned that if drying conditions have been poor with overcast skies, fruit may still be vulnerable to damage and a roll test should be carried out.

“If there has been heavy rain and the fruit cells have absorbed a lot of water, it takes time for the fruit to respire and lose that moisture and for the cells to shrink back. You have got to wait until the fruit has not only dried off but has dried out.”

Visit thetruthaboutOGR.co.nz to find out more about our flexible marketing options and how harvest decisions impact on return crop.

To improve drying time in your orchard, Erica recommends having an open canopy to allow air movement.

“Pruning is important. Make sure your shelterbelts are well-trimmed and not too high, causing shaded conditions in the orchard.”

Just Avocados has created a video of the tips for maintaining quality through harvest, which is available in the Just Avocados Growers Facebook group.

THE SHORT DROP LIMITED

HARVEST TIME? PICK WISELY...

At Just Avocados, we know what matters to you – because we’re growers too. That’s why 100% of our growers had 100% of their fruit picked in the 2019-20 season. It’s also why we offer three marketing options so you have the flexibility to harvest when it’s best for your tree health, cash flow and OGR performance.

Just Avocados is reminding growers to be vigilant during harvest to maximise packout

ker HooContracting • • • • • •

Maize Harvesting/Planting Square Silage/Hay Mulching/Tree Services Muck Spreading Cultivation Undersowing

Call Grant

0274 788 472 • 09 435 1310

Portable self contained unit No smell, Cost effective, Modular and Practical Perfect for cowsheds, orchards, bach etc... ...an eco way to deal with poo!

Full house hold waste water systems also available swwsnz.co.nz

compostingtoilet.nz Anita Grant • 027 462 1339

Or call us to discuss key influences on your profit.

CONTACT US TODAY:

John Emett

All pumps & water systems

Grower Services (Northland and South Auckland) 027 476 9087 john@justavocados.co.nz

@justavocados info@justavocados.co.nz www.justavocados.co.nz 027 472 9490

Authorised Grundfos Agent

Master Davey Dealer

Open Mon-Fri 8am to 5pm | Sat 9am to 12noon 24hr Emergency Call out Service

Visit our showroom: 31 Woodcocks Rd, Warkworth • Ph 09 425 9100 email splashwater@xtra.co.nz web www.splashwater.co.nz @splashwaterspecialists

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

23

HORTICULTURE Season workers get extended stay

by Paul Campbell

Uncertainty about the availability of seasonal workers, particularly those from the Pacific, in the horticulture industry has been alleviated with a decision by the government to extend the stay of those already in the country.

In light of the coronavirus pandemic, recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) visas are to be extended by six months.

Allowing these workers to stay and work in New Zealand and Immigration New Zealand will contact all RSE employers whose workers visas are running out.

The visas have been extended with effect from August 18 for all RSE workers whose visas are expiring between that date and December 31.

In a further advantage workers who wish to continue to work in New Zealand for the same purpose after this additional six months will also be able to apply to stay longer.

The requirement to return to their home country between seasons has been lifted in light of Covid travel restrictions.

Industry groups have been working with the government on visa flexibility for both RSE workers and renewing Working Holiday Visas. The latter are understood to be limited to a six months’ extension The RSE decision will be some certainty for Pacific workers who have been stranded by coronavirus beyond

their visas, experiencing a lack of work opportunities, new locations, the introduction to new jobs, systems of online shopping as well as social isolation from home.

New Zealand communities have responded and supported RSE workers in various ways. The new extension will, however, provide some economic certainty for them.

If, however, any worker needs to or wants to go home should be registered with their relevant High Commission, as the priorities and flight control is being run by the Pacific governments.

Horticulture New Zealand says it will be running another survey to get accurate as possible numbers for those who need to and want to return to the Pacific and those who are willing to remain in New Zealand.

The potential of getting a Pacific Bubble or movement with quarantine in employer designated facilities has been made more difficult with the communitytransmitted Covid cases in Auckland although industry groups continue to push for a Pacific Bubble.

McLENNAN

GROUNDSPREAD Bulk Cartage & Spreading Specialists Pastoral | Orchard | Lifestyle

Part of Northland Ground Spread for over 40 Years

Ben McLennan

Ph:021 762 727

Need more cross-pollination, or just some weather insurance?

Put this superstar on the team

Meanwhile, HortNZ’s complete annual report for 2019–2020 is available on its website, now that accounts, delayed by the level four lockdown, have been audited. The complete report covers financial performance and position

as well as what the organisation has achieved for horticulture in New Zealand in the past year.

The Annual General Meeting is at 12.30pm on Friday, 25 September in Pukekohe.

Heavy Duty Stump Chipping and Mulching 450HP TRACKED FRONT MOUNTED STUMP CHIPPER & 2.5M WIDE HIGH SPEED MULCHING HEAD • Stump chipping any size to 600mm depth • Land clearing, cutover pines to grass • Mulching, slash, scrub/ gorse, heavy tops & limbs, fire breaks and out of ground stumps • Orchards & shelter belts, chipped & mulched • Stumps chipped for centre pivots Helps retain moisture and adds nutrients back into soil THE FASTER MORE ECONOMICAL ALTERNATIVE.

OPERATING SINCE 2008

Darker, Colder, Wetter, Windier… Done.

Pacific Mulching Ltd Stumpchipping & Mulching Specialists

Phone 0800 stumpy / 0800 788 679

(06) 879 5883

www.biobees.co.nz office@biobees.co.nz

Pacific Mulching Ltd Mobile: 021 079 6373 stumppro@xtra.co.nz

24

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

Get your waste away Technology meets ecology

DO YOU NEED TO

UPGRADE

by Andy Bryenton

YOUR WASTEWATER OR WATER TANK? Talk to us FIRST about your requirements!

OBLIGATION-FREE QUOTES 69H MILL ROAD, HELENSVILLE

09 420 9042 | 0274 92 32 52 Email: info@approvedwastewater.co.nz www.approvedwastewater.co.nz

Oi!

DON’T TXT & DRIVE

When it comes to cars, all the talk right now is about trading in the ‘old tank’ for something more modern, with less of a footprint on the environment and lower operating costs. However, under the ground near your garage or driveway, there’s likely another kind of ‘old tank’ that has been well superseded by modern thinking.

It’s true that most people don’t consider their wastewater systems until it’s too late, or at least until the noxious smell points of trouble brewing below.

The old way of doing things was fine in a limited context. However, today, with a more comprehensive knowledge of how bacteria break down waste and how it’s possible to use treated wastewater to complete the natural cycle and irrigate green spaces, there are options far beyond the simple concrete containment vessel of yesteryear.

When renovating or building new, it’s a good idea to get things underground sorted from the get-go. Councils and builders will need to know what you’re planning to install, so get them involved from the start of planning to ensure the best outcome. It all comes down to where you want to build and how you’re going to utilise the space. A busy home for a family is different from an off the grid cabin for holidays or an additional

dwelling to bolster living room on the farm. Getting an expert in to take a look and apply their years of experience could save you thousands in the long-term.

The best news for modern, ecofriendly builds is that power-free or micro solar-operated systems are now in the mainstream, as are systems designed to process waste liquids into valuable irrigating run-off. It’s all about best harnessing the different types of naturally occurring benign bacteria which thrive in waste, breaking it down into harmless byproducts. By Dig once, and do it right — modern wastewater systems require less maintenance and are more versatile than designing a system which allows antiquated septic tanks these tiny creatures to do the best possible job, efficiency is boosted, and more scope to get creative and a wider there’s less need for pumping out. Some range of spaces where modern systems systems can go between five and seven can fit. That’s why it’s a great idea to get in touch with both wastewater system years without professional attention.

One of the biggest advances in waste experts and your builders or architects treatment systems above and beyond early on. You may be surprised at just the old septic tank model is the ability how compact and efficient this tech has to operate on hilly land or in areas too become, and how little it might cost to go small for a classic septic tank. This zero-power or off the grid with advanced flexibility gives designers and architects waste treatment at your disposal.

For all your Wastewater System requirements:

Like us on Facebook

ATTENTION SEPTIC TANK OWNERS

I N S TA L L AT I O N S

Septi-CureTM is:      

We can provide you with the latest technology in Wastewater Treatment Systems. Phone us for a no obligation site inspection to evaluate your requirements

Mobile: 021 628 847 Email: enquiries@cleartechinstallations.co.nz Or visit: www.cleartechinstallations.co.nz

Cost Effective Easy To use Improves Soakage Reduces Solids and Scums Eliminates Nasty Odours Reduces Costly Pump-outs

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

He says this allows them to have an odour free septic tank with low maintenance costs. He also says that his service person is amazed at how well Septi-Cure™ works, keeping their tank in very good condition. *Results may vary

SALES • INSTALLATION SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE • REPAIRS

CLEARTECH INSTALLATIONS LTD

Aerated Sewage Treatment Systems LOW POWER OPTION Before*

Breakthrough Product Developed for your Septic Tank

0800 109 202 www.ecoworld.co.nz

After*

Also Available at:

DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL Retrofit Plastic / Concrete Servicing all areas

• Septic Tanks • Pump Chambers • Water Tanks

09 407 8323 | 0800 739 243 | www.waipapatanks.co.nz

25

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

Get your waste away Eliminating wastewater is vital

by Paul Campbell

District and regional councils across the north are undertaking remedial works in many centres to alleviate stormwater and sewage problems. In a predominantly rural environment, modern on-site sewage systems are a good answer to ageing facilities, some dating back a half-century or even more.

There is a wide variety of treatment systems to service a single property that has come onto the market as technology has moved forward. Whatever choice is made either to replace an ancient installation or service a new dwelling, it must be designed and sized correctly to work well.

An undersized, poorly designed or under-maintained system may not adequately cope with your wastewater.

This is important because it’s the responsibility of the owner to make sure on-site sewage systems are maintained and operating efficiently to treat all of the wastewater from a household.

Legal restrictions mean that onsite sewage systems, such as septic tanks, are generally only found in rural or semi-rural areas. Septic tanks are the most common on-site treatment.

There are various other systems as well, including single waterless toilets, or ‘aerobic’ or ‘secondary’ treatment systems. In operation, modern systems

pipe wastewater to the on-site sewage system, which consists of one or more chambers. The chambers can be made of concrete, fibreglass, or plastic. Modern aerated and advanced wastewater treatment systems (AWTS) apply a number of treatment steps.

That includes separating solid waste from wastewater. Solids settle on the bottom of the chamber, and light waste such as fats and grease floats to the top.

When someone’s choosing an onsite, a supplier will, of course, have and provide more detailed information about tanks, chambers and soakage treatment areas.

Properly set up and installed, on-site sewage systems treat wastewater to remove pathogens and chemical residues.

However, if the system is not properly maintained or is failing for some reason, then it can become a serious health and environmental risk.

Viral and bacterial infections are the most common causes of general sickness in New Zealand. The flu, colds, hepatitis and meningitis are caused by viruses. Viral gastroenteritis or hepatitis A are waterborne and can be carried in human waste.

To install an on-site sewage system, you’ll need a building consent, and you also may need a resource consent or at least need to meet regional council requirements. Finally, the sewage treatment system you choose will have to be undertaken by a qualified installer.

AFFORDABLE SEPTIC SERVICES IN YOUR AREA YOUR DEPENDABLE DRAIN EXPERTS For all drainage jobs big or small give Sure Flo a call.

OUR SERVICES

Using worms, sun and time - we process all our liquid waste into rich compost.

WWW.SUREFLO.CO.NZ

OVER

• Drain Cleaning • Root Removal

0800 SHR FLO I 0800 747 356

Composted for 3 years - low in NPK, tested PH7

Phone: 09 423 7014

• 24/7 Drain Unblocking • Drain Laying and Repair • CCTV Drain Inspections

E

30 YEARS

XP

ERIEN C

E

admin@sureflo.co.nz Sure Flo

Find us on

www.macjimray.co.nz

Leslie Drainage

Are YOU Wanting Power Free Sewage Treatment?

Certifying Drainlayers Rural, Urban, Commercial or Residential.

Covering ALL aspects of Drainage Northland Wide.

We also provide general Earthworks and Landscaping services.

We have a perfect track record of satisfied customers.

Richard Leslie 021 0809 0752 | Shaun Beuker 021 117 5980 09 435 5007 | leslie.drainage@gmail.com

www.naturalflow.co.nz

26

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

CROP & PASTURE PREP Farming really is rocket science

by Andy Bryenton

In 2018, an ambitious new plan carried out in partnership between the United States Government and private company SpaceX saw the first of a new generation of GPS satellites headed for orbit. The latest flew from Cape Canaveral Space Centre in June, with more to come. However, why is this news for a farming publication?

The existing network of only 31 civilianaccessible GPS satellites has changed the concept of ‘isolation’ forever, making it hard to truly get lost. It’s also had a profound effect on farming, as it’s now possible to accurately guide machinery and vehicle operations from space.

Imagine playing chess from down among the pieces; it would be hard to see the whole board. That’s what it was like to try and plan a fertiliser application strategy before GPS and satellite imagery gave us an alien’s eye view

100 IT’S NOT A TARGET

from low orbit. Improved GPS, with more satellites able to accurately measure down into the millimetre range, means better control for activities such as harvesting, pasture prep, seed drilling, and of course, fertiliser placement.

When you consider that New Zealand’s leading GPS guided fert placement system, TracMap, is responsible for close to three-quarters of all fertiliser application strategies, you can see where even a small increase in operational efficiency and accuracy could make a huge difference. GPS III, as the new system is called, may still be under the aegis of the US military, but it will be tougher against solar flares and radiation, and able to ‘handshake’ with the European Galileo system for even more coverage and accuracy.

Add this to the data able to be gleaned from satellites like Galileo’s ‘cousin’ in space, Copernicus. It will be

CROPPING Nows The Time

Space X loft another GPS III payload into orbit, combining with other land survey satellites to provide detailed and accurate data for future farming techniques

possible to take extra variables such as soil moisture, temperature, humidity and other factors into account when looking at your land in the way only previously possible in complex simulation games.

China has kept up with the west, launching another of their Gaofen land analysis satellites this year too. While in earlier times rivals to the superpower may have feared its spy capabilities, the real might of the Gaofen is in its ability

to accurately plan crop placement and harvesting for the vast population of the People’s Republic.

GPS III is set to be fully online from 2022, but advancements in GPS tracking are already being felt in the local rural sector.

Next time you see a ground spreading truck at work, chances are its orders came, ultimately, via helping eyes in space.

COST EFFECTIVE GRASS SILAGE NO OBLIGATION FREE QUOTES

• Spraying • Cultivation • Air seeding • Fertiliser spreading with GPS • Silage and hay bales • Silage stacks • Effluent pond with auto fill tanker • Muck spreading 14m3 spreader • Urea slurry spraying • Mulching • Undersowing Plant roll & apply slug bait to your summer crops in one pass

WARKWORTH - WELLSFORD

Phone Greg: 027 432 7034

Phone Brad Henty: 0274 28 24 26 or 09 433 7654 High quality yields with custom

fertiliser blends CALL US FOR A SOIL TEST TODAY!

Scott Parker 021 453 442 or email scott.parker@parkerlime.co.nz

Healthy soils, healthy returns

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

27

CROP & PASTURE PREP ADVERTORIAL

Top tips for bumper chicory crops

K P Dreadon Ltd Ag Contracting

There’s an old saying that it costs as much to grow a high yielding crop as it does to grow one that yields poorly.

Specialising in

The key difference is that the high yielding crop provides much cheaper, and more profitable, feed than the low yielding one. So if you want to get the very best out of your 501 Chicory this summer, an experienced agronomist has a handy checklist that will help.

Blair Cotching, pasture systems manager for Barenbrug, says the first step is to sow early, as soon as soil temperatures are 12C and rising.

“Aim for a fine, weed-free seedbed, and remember chicory seed needs to be sown shallow, never deeper than one centimetre.

If you’re direct drilling, pay close attention to depth control.”

For a straight crop of 501 Chicory, Blair says the best sowing rate is 10kg/ ha, using Agricote-treated seed.

Good seedbed preparation, and rolling the seed before and after sowing, helps encourage uniform germination. Not only of the crop itself, but also any weeds which might still be in the soil. That makes it easier to pick the right time for post-emergence weed control if required.

Seek specialist advice before applying any crop protection to ensure you are targeting the right species. Blair says while chicory usually germinates quickly, young plants then seem to sit and look like they’re not doing much for about four weeks.

“Don’t worry about this. They are putting energy into developing their deep

• Bulk cartage • Groundspreading • Fertiliser cartage and spreading

Call Kevin on

021 273 2572 taproot, which helps them tolerate dry spells over summer better than ryegrass.”

501 Chicory crops should be ready to graze when the plants have seven or eight leaves, Blair says. Cows should go onto the crop when it’s 30cm high and be taken off when they have grazed it down to three centimetres. Care needs to be taken in wet conditions to avoid damaging the crown of the plant.

For lambs, grazing guidelines are different. “If you’ve sown 501 Chicory as a finishing crop, we advise break-fencing the paddock into blocks and adjusting mob size so that you shift lambs at least every three to four days. As a rule of thumb, use a 20 to 25-day rotation between grazings, depending on growth rate.”

Serving the North for 80 years

LIMEWORKS IN: • Fairburn • Otangaroa • Paranui

Po Box 144, Larmer Rd, Kaitaia • www.bellinghamquarries.com Phone: 09 408 1340 • Cell: 021 848 098 • Email: bellingham.quarry@xtra.co.nz

Finishing lambs should go onto the crop when it’s 20cm high and be taken off when they have grazed it down to two centimetres. To make it easier for farmers to get their grazing management right, Barenbrug has designed a new 501 Chicory sward stick, which is available now free of charge. It’s marked on one side to show the actual on/off crop height for cows, and on the other, the on/off height for lambs.

Contact your local Barenbrug area manager or your seed merchant if you would like to receive your own sward stick.

SMOKE ALARMS

Save Lives

STEVE WOOD CONTRACTING

YOUR RELIABLE LOCAL FARM CONTRACTOR • Silage Loader Wagons • Fusion 3Plus Baler/Wrapper • Grass seeding • Triple mowers • Conventional Baler • Medium Square Baler CONTACT STEVEN WOOD 021 456 247

Extra value $325/ha* 501 Chicory is very fast establishing and out-yields some other varieties. This could mean an extra 50kg MS/ha worth $325/ha*. *Based on 550kg DM/ha extra yield and $6.50/kg MS milk price. Yield data based on yield info from combined trial analysis of Cambridge 11-12, and Canterbury 12-13.

Make more green this summer with 501 Chicory. barenbrug.co.nz 0800 449 955

facebook.com/BarenbrugNZ

@BarenbrugNZ

28

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

CROP & PASTURE PREP The engine room of spring growth

by Andy Bryenton

With the days getting longer and spring officially on the calendar, things are changing all around us in nature. The obvious signs, like blooming daffodils, are one thing, but a more profound change is occurring under our feet, as the entire underground biome shifts from winter to summer mode.

Human agriculture has taken note of these changes since ancient times.

Still, it’s only in more recent decades that we’ve really begun to understand the science which dictates life under the soil of farmers’ paddocks. This knowledge has led to advancements in how best to aerate the soil, how best to promote healthy growth for new crops, and even how to plant seed for optimum performance.

Some of this work in creating new understanding comes from soil scientists patiently sampling cores of earth each season to measure chemicals, nutrient levels and the activity of fungi and bacteria. Other information is increasingly fed into our soil and pasture model from space, as satellites join in the task of helping provide robust agriculture for a growing and hungry population.

Of course, some of the basics, such as the need to plough and turn the soil, and the importance of using crop rotation to fix nitrogen, have been known about since the Middle Ages. The threefield system, developed in those longago times, was discovered by monks

ULTRA

WE SUPPLY

FINE LIME

BULK CHICKEN MANURE FOR PASTURE, ORCHARDS & CROPPING WE ALSO SUPPLY SAWDUST & WOODCHIP

The Ultra Fine Lime Co. is now the authorised distributor of PFP fertilisers wide range of high quality Ultra fine ground lime & fertiliser products. Using the high quality fine particle products at our recommended rates will boost production while reducing transport and application costs by a considerable amount.

CALL NOW

FOR A QUOTE ON DELIVERY, SUPPLY & SPREADING NORTHLAND WIDE

Soil scientists take a closer look at the underlying strata beneath the surface of pasture, building up a map of the nutrients, bacteria and fungi which interact there

who didn’t have the right words to explain why it was better. They may well have gleaned information from very old texts in Greek, from the time of ancient Egypt and Babylon.

The adoption of the three-field system, with its emphasis on healthy soil, increased food production is said to be a driving force behind the Renaissance, when trade, and hence learning flourished.

This is all good news, but of little concern today to the farmer thinking about modern crop choices, seed placement and soil harrowing, most of which is now accomplished by machine.

The key, however, remains the same as it was back in the days of those early monks. When the microbiome in the soil begins to switch from its winter mode to its more active spring and summer phase, it’s time to be out there working.

Inclement weather is sure to blow over soon as we pass the equinox and head into summer.

So thinking ahead to consult with soil science experts and the contractors who wield today’s powerful harrows and seed drills is smart business. In short, it’s time to take care of your soil, so it, in turn, will take care of you through what may be a long hot summer.

We operate our depot out of Kaikohe.

09 407 4142

Book now for your early spring requirements.

Contact Bruce Sisley mob 021 308 466 or email bruce@rgfs.biz

Spring is lawn time and Newton’s have a huge range of seed varieties for your lawn.

Buy online and save yourself a packet.

A IN &

SEED DRESSI

D I R C GE

GR

NG

www.newtonseed.co.nz 09 636 4918 78 Leonard Rd, Mt Wellington

SEEDS

QUA LITY PASTURE SEED

• DIGGER, SCOOP AND TRAILER WORK

“Outstanding in the Field” www.cridgeseeds.co.nz

• MOW, RAKE, BALE & WRAP • STACK SILAGE • POWER HARROWING WITH AIR SEEDER • DISCING & DIRECT DRILLING • EFFLUENT, LIME & FERT SPREADING

GLEN LUGTIGHEID: 021 439 748 glenlugtigheid@gmail.com

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

29

CROP & PASTURE PREP Wildly inaccurate maps With the government already agreeing flawed aspects of new freshwater regulations will need to be changed, Federated Farmers is highlighting the case for a review of land deemed ‘low slope’ for the purposes of stock exclusion from waterways.

“We are about to survey our members to get more specific information on where the Ministry for the Environment’s final low slope maps are wrong, so we can advocate for the best way forward,” says Feds water spokesperson Chris Allen.

“The low slope maps take in some hill and high country that is so steep, the farmers will need to pay for helicopters to lift poles and other supplies in order to fence off the waterways.

“The government requirements as written have come as one hell of a shock to low intensity/high country farmers given the obscene costs it will take to comply.”

The increase in pastoral land now defined as ‘low slope’ has increased

Pay attention!

from the 3.8 million hectares consulted on by the government in 2019 to six million hectares in the MfE maps now published. That pushes the total cost to around $4.4 billion.

Four times what the government estimated it would cost in their cost/ benefit analysis.

“Federated Farmers supports the intent of excluding cattle, deer and pigs from waterways on intensively grazed low slope land and when strip grazed, but unfortunately, this is another instance of the final regulations being well off the mark.”

Landowners can check out how much of their land is defined as low slope land via the following website — mfe.maps. arcgis.com.

around road works

Chris Allen, Federated Farmers water spokesperson

MARC HACKETT CONTRACTING LTD “No Job Too Small”

• Fertiliser Spreading • Lime Urea • Compost Dicalcic super • Specialising in Small Blocks • Free Quotes

Mini spreader available for all winter nutrient applications

Spreading Northland The precise way to grow

• We apply what you need, where you need it • Ravtrak advanced guidance • Proof of placement maps • Application history stored online • Experienced local operator • Options for all terrain

Spreadmark

We can cart and spread from all fertiliser stores Call us today: Jason Williamson 027 499 2530

NORTHLAND

Contact Marc: Cell 021 0830 0650 Home (09) 946 0648 R D 1, Kamo, Whangarei • marc.hackett@yahoo.co.nz

AG & MULCH CONTRACTING

-13 Tonne Digger - Mulching - Chain Trenching - Foliar Spraying - Bulk Fertiliser - Ground Work Phone Steve 027 943 5595

CONTRACTING

Your local Agriculture Contracting Specialists • Maize Silage gives you security of feed continuity through adverse weather and maintains cow condition • Maize is very cost effective when grown on farm or within a 10km radius • Maize green feed is a great option for dry summer conditions

Our Services Maize Silage, Grass Silage, Cultivation, Maize Planting, Under Sowing, Mowing, Raking and Cartage, Stack Building, Mulching and Effluent Tanker

PH: 09 439 6088 | E: admin@lawrenceag.co.nz ROBIN 027 863 0034 • PETER 027 490 2942 • GRAEME 027 476 3499

30

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

CATALOGUE OUT NOW!

SAVE UP TO 250 $

*

TRIMMERS $ * FROM 199

1000 DAYS INTEREST FREE^

ON SELECTED LAWN TRACTOR & ZERO TURN MODELS

BRUSHCUTTERS FROM **

509

$

199 refers to model 122C **$509 refers to model 129R

*$

Refers selected models, ask in-store for details.

*

RIDER OFFER

BATTERY OFFER

BONUS!

PRESSURE WASHER*

Refers selected models, ask in-store for details.

SECOND SKIN*

Terms and conditions apply, ask in-store for details.

*

*

^

50% OFF

1000 days interest free on Husqvarna Lawn Tractors, Ride on Mowers or ZTR Zero Turn Mowers is available on Flexi Payment Plans & Flexi Payment Purchases for in-store purchases from 01/09/2020 to 31/12/2020. Annual Account Fee of $50 applies. New Cardholder fee - $55 Establishment.

Existing Cardholder fee - $35 Advance. Minimum payments of 3% of the monthly closing balance or $10 (whichever is greater) are required throughout interest free period. Paying only the minimum monthly payments will not fully repay the loan before the end of the interest free period. Standard Interest Rate, currently 25.99% p.a. or 22.95% p.a. (depending on your card) applies to any outstanding balance at end of interest free period. Lending criteria, fees, terms and conditions apply. Rate and fees correct as at date of publication, subject to change. The issuer reserves the right to amend, suspend or terminate the offer and these terms and conditions at any time without notice. MasterCard is a registered trademark and the circles design is a trademark of MasterCard International Incorporated. ®

Offers valid 01/09/20 – 31/12/20 at participating authorised Husqvarna Dealers, while stocks last.

*

Available at your local Husqvarna Dealer, Albany

Albany Mowers & Machinery

09 415 9756

Mangawhai

Mangawhai Small Engines

09 431 5270

Dargaville

Farrand & Mason Ltd

09 439 7335

Mangonui

Mangonui Mowers & Chainsaws Ltd

09 406 0584

Kaikohe

Kaikohe Lawnmowers & Chainsaws Ltd 09 401 0151

Silverdale

Gatmans Mowers & More

09 426 5612

Kaitaia

Kaitaia Tractors Ltd

Wairau Valley Gardening Aids Ltd

09 444 9493

Kaiwaka

Kaiwaka Motorcycles Ltd

09 431 2127

Warkworth

Rodney Honda

09 945 3989

Kumeu

Kumeu Chainsaw & Mower Services

09 412 8109

Whangarei

Regent Lawnmowers and Cycles

09 408 0670

0800 438 296

WWW.HUSQVARNA.COM

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020 BUSINESS PROFILE

31

ADVERTORIAL

The high flyer in Kaitaia

by Andy Bryenton

Spring comes early in the far north, where the grass is already sprouting riotously, and the calls are coming into outdoor power equipment specialists Kaitaia Tractors; ‘help us tame the overgrowth’!

It’s a good call to make, especially if a cursory glance inside the machinery shed shows a mass of rust and spiderwebs after a long wet winter.

Kaitaia Tractors, as their name suggests, are experts when it comes to big agricultural machinery for farmers.

They’ve built up quite a reputation for 65 years, in fact. Another big part of their business centres on outdoor power equipment, for those selfsame farmers and the regular householders of the ‘top-end’. That’s why they are proud stockists of Husqvarna, the biggest name in the world when it comes to small engines put to work in the garden.

This spring sees some changes in the Husqvarna range, notably the expansion and further empowerment of their battery-operated selection.

There was a time when electric versions of things like line trimmers, hedge clippers and chainsaws were a ‘step down’ option, suited only for the most lightweight of tasks. No more. The surge in battery power and lifespan that has seen the rise of electric cars has also translated into saws, brushcutters, blowers and even concrete disc cutters, which need no fuel mixing, no pull

starting and very little maintenance at all. Best yet, they pack the same grunt as their octane-sipping forebears, while being generally lighter to wield.

There are a couple of other core advantages to going electric with Husqvarna.

As a global leader, they have poured big research capital into making their battery tools last the distance. Lesser imitations might sputter out after an hour’s work, but the big orange machines box on, with the option of backpack mounted ‘super batteries’ for those spending maximum time away from a power socket.

Batteries are interchangeable, so it’s easy to keep one charging while tackling multiple tasks with the other.

That also makes it possible to invest in a couple of batteries and a charger, then buy the unpowered ‘skins’ of several devices, building a full tool kit for less.

Factor in the noise, the lack of fuel bills, no fumes or smells, a better environmental profile and an everexpanding range, and there are not many reasons not to visit Kaitaia Tractors and take a look.

''FARMING DESERVES SUPPORT FROM THE TOP" Scrap the ETS Scrap the ero Car on Act Invest in pollution solutions Reduce tax & cut red tape Repeal ad gun la"s New Conservative recognises farming as one of our primary industries and values the protection of it and the hard wor ing people involved.

Reduce compliance costs for freshwater and waterway management.

Overhaul the Resource Management Act. Criminal charges for systemic re-offending only. and preventing further damage.

Let' farmers hope.

NEWCONSERVATIVE.ORG.N

Glowing in the dark With a past audience of 36,000-plus children, educators and the public, the all-new Te Moana Glow Show is coming to Northland, a giant-scale puppet show for tamariki with magical glow-in-the-dark characters from Maori myth and legend.

This innovative, cutting-edge concept features more than 40 glow-in-the-dark puppets under ultraviolet light in a black box theatre environment.

Rich in Te Reo Maori, it’s an upbeat 45-minute show with catchy music that has the audience buzzing from the onset. There’s an abundance of educational content with a question and answer session afterwards and resources online at glowshow.co.nz.

An all-new show this year is ‘going under the sea.’ A courageous Kina goes on a journey of discovery across the Pacific to Aotearoa. Helped by Hiwa-i-

te-rangi she meets many delightful (and not so delightful) characters. He waka eke noa — we’re all in this together!

The show will be at Te Ahu, Kaitaia, September 28–29, the Turner Centre, Kerikeri, October 12–13, at Forum North, Whangarei on November 30, December 1 and 2.

Book at ticketek.co.nz. Group Bookings or schools’ invoicing call 09 307 5058.

Email hello@glowshow.co.nz for more information.

Please see our advert on Page 3 for further details.

OUR BUSINESS IS GROWING CLOVER

Fertiliser products for healthier stronger pastures

Fertco offers the New Zealand agricultural industry some of the most effective soil and plant nutrient products on the market today. Fertilisers that can deliver you a better return and often are kinder to our environment at the same time.

For more information contact your local fertco consultant or visit our website:

Angela Urwin 027 665 5480 @fertco.co.nz fertco.co.nz

Leighton Baker PARTY LEADER Mel Taylor NORTHLAND

Authorised by K.Stitt 35 Lenore Road, Mangere, Au and

32

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

LIVESTOCK ADVERTORIAL

Kaipara Herefords has a new look Kaipara Herefords on the Pouto Peninsula has been breeding Herefords since the 1940s. The herd was started by Hugh Biddles in the late 1940s and was continued by Hugh’s son Kim from 1982 until 2013. Kim made significant strides during this period and formed what is the nucleus of the herd today. Kaipara Herefords is now run by Sam (Kim’s son) and his wife Kate.

The farm is 470ha and is supported by a 30ha runoff. The herd numbers at mating last spring were 448. Since the mid-1990s the focus of Kaipara Herefords has been on producing 15/16-month bulls for the dairy industry.

“Our whole programme is dedicated to this focus and has enabled us to provide an excellent product for our clients with particular attention on using sires with a low to moderate birth weight, smooth shoulder structure and long carcase length,” says Sam. “Our goal is to produce bulls that limit any human intervention in the calving

process. Calving in 2020 has been very successful with only two cows from the whole herd having to be calved due to being presented improperly.

“In addition to the structure of the bulls, we have a large focus on temperament.

All calves are tagged and weighed at birth in the paddock or walked to yards.

Any female that doesn’t have a sound temperament is culled. For the last few years, we have had noticeable feedback from both dairy farmers and livestock transporters about the good nature of our bulls.” In 2018, Sam implemented a closed herd policy to protect the herd

ATTENTION FARMERS BULK SILO FILL OR BY THE BAG For all of your stockfood requirements contact your local merchant or

Phone 09 433 8933 Factory Lane, Hikurangi

Sam, Kate and children

existing clients and always welcome enquiries and new buyers.

“This year, we have created a website and social media account to showcase and inform prospective buyers and existing clients about our operation.

Come and see us at kaiparaherefords. co.nz and follow the icon link to our Facebook page.

This year’s Private Treaty Sale is on October 2. Payment and delivery are on this date. We offer free delivery across the North Island.

and his clients from Mycoplasma bovis and BVD. That means that the only cattle coming on to the property are breeding sires from other registered breeders.

These bulls are transported on a clean and disinfected truck.

Kaipara Herefords looks to produce 100-plus 15/16-month bulls for sale each year.

Sales are by private treaty and supported by dairy farmers from around Northland and further afield. “We have a consistent and loyal following of

PRIVATE TREATY SALE Offering 100 - 15/16 Month Bulls

70 Years of Breeding Herefords Excellent Temperament White Face Advantage Closed Herd (Protect your herd from Mycoplasma Bovis and BVD) BVD Tested Clear and Vaccinated FREE Delivery

Sam and Kate Biddles 170 Schick Rd RD1 Te Kopuru

09 439 5493 027 566 6558 kaiparaherefords@gmail.com

Agent Haydn Evans 021 985 863

Find us online kaiparaherefords.co.nz kaiparaherefords

Delivery and Payment 2nd October 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

LIVESTOCK

Regenerative research boost

∙ Ph: Email:

Research announced by Beef + Lamb New Zealand earlier this year into the global market potential of regenerative agriculture has received a $390,000 funding boost from the Ministry for Primary Industries.

The research, initially focussing on New Zealand’s sheep and beef products, is also broadening to include a wine industry perspective.

“While Covid-19 has delayed this work, it has also acted as a wake-up call about future challenges and opportunities,” says B+LNZ CEO Sam McIvor.

“Perhaps now, more than ever, the time is right to evaluate consumer and wider industry understanding and attitudes towards products produced using regenerative agriculture.

“This research will provide the sheep, beef and wine sectors, as well as the wider food and fibres sectors, their first large-scale, evidence-based picture of the potential market upsides, or downsides, of regenerative agriculture.

“There has been a massive global surge in interest about regenerative agriculture in the last couple of years, and major multinationals like Danone and General Mills are exploring the marketing of regenerativelyproduced products.

“There are diverse views around what regenerative agriculture actually is, and many people believe our farmers are already applying some of those principles in management practices like rotational grazing. However, it’s critical we understand what consumers think and how influential players are acting.

“Understanding these factors helps us to better understand potential demand, and whether there are opportunities for New Zealand to leverage it. We want to get ahead of any opportunities so farmers, and now winegrowers too can be best placed to take advantage of them.”

MPI is the majority funder of the research through its Sustainable Food & Fibre Futures fund. It supports innovation in New Zealand’s food and fibre sectors by co-investing in initiatives

Beat the drought Order now!

me ooso hs M y l g l Tota ete trou r conc

THANK YOU FOR WORKING WITH US, YOUR LOCAL NORTHLAND LIVESTOCK CARRIER

Steve Penno, director Investment Programmes at MPI

that make a positive and lasting difference. “Regenerative agriculture is receiving a lot of attention lately,” says director Investment Programmes at MPI, Steve Penno.

“This research will provide valuable insights into what consumers think regenerative agriculture is, and whether they are willing to pay a premium for products that are produced using regenerative practices.”

Research will focus on consumers, industry and experts in key red meat and wine export markets, including the US, UK and Germany. It will also explore local attitudes toward regenerative agriculture among farmers, processors, winegrowers and others to understand their views on its potential, and how it could be incorporated within our existing value chain.

Results are expected in early 2021 and will be shared across the red meat and wine sectors.

UNITED LIVESTOCK WHANGAREI

ROYDONS – KAIPARA

S

HILDER’S LIVESTOCK BAY OF ISLANDS

TAN

EMENOFF LIVESTOCK LTD

STAN SEMENOFF LIVESTOCK LTD P: 0800 800 585 LIVESTOCK@SEMENOFFGROUP.CO.NZ

Call Mike on 027 497 2935 or Call Scotty on 027 274 3787 PROUDLY SUPPORTING THE LIFE EDUCATION TRUST IN NORTHLAND FOR THE LAST 26 YEARS

FE tolerance and production • Currently testing at 0.67 • DNA Testing 5K & 50K • Worm Fec 16yrs • Sales nationwide also available Beltex X and Charolais X terminal sires

Don’t buy imitations, buy the real deal!!

Contact either: 09 433 2616 or 027 777 0832 kereru_station@xtra.co.nz

Rhys Dackers

09 433 2461 or 027 241 5564 helsnz1@xtra.co.nz

find us on facebook @ardgkereruromneys

NEVILLE BROS SILVERDALE

“Good friends don’t let you do stupid things … alone.”

• Celebrating 52 years of Industry Leadership breeding for

Bob Steed

33

ARDG KERERU STATION ROMNEYS “High performing hill country Romney Rams bred in Northland for Northland farmers”

34

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

DAIRY ADVERTORIAL

Avoid Drink Driving be tHe SOBER D FOr A NIGHt DR & BA

GRANT ENGINEERING • Milking Machinery • Cowshed Pipework • Lathe & Milling Machining • Milking Machinery testing & quality control (same day repairs) • Aluminium & Stainless welding

Ph 09 439 8248 Beach Rd, Dargaville

What we haven’t got we can get!

MCROBBIE DOWLING LTD Producing quality graded stone & aggregate products for your farm maintenance, roads, races and pads.

Enviroline’s new owners Jason and Roz Harrison are the new owners of Enviroline, supplying quality linings for a variety of ponds including effluent and decorative.

“We wanted our own business as we have a young family. The decision came earlier than expected when I was made redundant from my last job,” says Jason.

“We took ownership of Enviroline on the first of July and look forward to building ongoing relationships. Roz and I have been around farms our whole life. Roz was born on a dairy farm in Pirongia before moving to beef and sheep operations and also worked on horse studs.

“I am Te Awamutu-born and bred.

My dad is a vet, and we understand the needs of the farming community.

I have predominantly worked in the agriculture/veterinarian industry and have spent the most part of the last 20 years dealing with dairy farmers.

“Enviroline is the lining for the HPE liner. The majority of our business is in dairy effluent ponds. We are getting into the commercial sector including stormwater ponds for subdivisions and catchment ponds for industrial sites. We also line decorative ponds for lifestyle block holders and farmers.

“We are happy to get involved at any stage of a project and help design the pond as well through our contacts. You

Call now for delivery direct from our local quarry to your farm!

Jason Harrison the new owner of Enviroline

need to take into account the soil type, the number of cows if it is an effluent pond, and the annual rainfall for a pond to be built correctly.

“Ponds need to be constructed with the right material and lined the correct way. You need leak protection, and there are a number of technical issues to consider. It’s not like the old days where you just dug a hole and put a pipe in.

“There are three layers to the lining, and it is important to understand what the end product will look like.

“The earlier we are involved, the better as it also dramatically reduces potential delays.

“It is good to have everyone, such as the earthworks guys around the table from day one to discuss the process. That

is better than discovering you can’t line a pond because of this issue or that issue.

“I believe we have a high-quality product. There is always a cheap option, but cheap is not best. We have the backing of the supplier, can provide a 20-year liner warranty and an eight-year workmanship guarantee.

“Your effluent pond is literally going to be filled with effluent. We are a small business, and I am on-site for each job and can deal with issues immediately.

We believe in fair pricing and quality workmanship with adaptability.

“If you are looking for quality workmanship, superior liners, successful effluent containment at realistic prices, call the team at Enviroline NZ to discuss how we can help you.”

kawakawa E n g i n e e r i n g

G r o u p

Westfalia and Milfos Parts and Servicing

L t d

Milfos / GEA ICR easy start promo.

Transform your ICR Rams to easy start from 150 per bail

Turiwiri Quarry Contact: John: 021 270 8565 or Clark: 021 620 067

Proud Service Partner of

Garry Wilson | 021 569 661 gea.midnorth@gmail.com gea.com

LACTOGUARD™ EPOXY SYSTEM

QUALITY DAIRY EFFLUENT LINER INSTALLATIONS

• Avoid costly penalties • Repair lactose/acid erosion to cowshed/dairies/vat stands/walls • Repair unhygienic cracks

BEFORE

• Strengthens concrete under heavy use

• We provide HDPE Geomembranes for fresh water storage, effluent containment and ornamental ponds.

• HDPE Liners meet all current standards and are proven in the harsh New Zealand environment Quality dairy effluent liners.

0800 1 LINER - 0800 154 637

20 year produc t warran ty

Email: info@envirolinenz.co.nz • www.envirolinenz.co.nz

• Also for abattoirs, butcheries, chicken farms etc • No smell (low V.O.C.) volatile organic compounds • No downtime • Site Safe Accredited

Ph 0274 966 890 Email admin@allfloorprep.co.nz

AFTER

2 YEAR GUARANTEE 2 YEAR GUARANTEE

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

VEHICLES, HEAVY MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT

Swift set to shift

by Andy Bryenton

With the purely electric car still struggling to deliver the massive range which would put rural Kiwi minds at ease, hybrid solutions are looking good right now. There have been great attempts by various carmakers to design a hybrid which has the look and feel of a ‘normal’ passenger vehicle, but none have hit the mark so neatly as the new Suzuki Swift Hybrid.

MUFFLER SERVICES 62 CLYDE STREET

WE CAN

1. Fix any size exhaust system 2. Fit or supply all your exhaust requirements 3. Provide you with FREE NO-OBLIGATION QUOTES 4. Tube bending 5. TRUCK & CAMPERVAN REPAIRS 6. Small MIG welding repairs WE SPECIALISE IN ALL TRUCKS, TRACTORS & HEAVY MACHINERY So for your cars, vans, utes, imports, light and heavy trucks, tractors and heavy machinery...

CALL US NOW

Phone 438 8960 WHANGAREI

sales@mufflerservices.co.nz

BU

www.mufflerservices.co.nz

Suzuki Swift Hybrid — eco meets friendly with a normal-handling, normal-looking machine that saves money and fuel

charges up as the car decelerates and brakes (like the KERS system in a Formula One racer), adding a little extra punch every time you take off from the lights.

This form of hybrid drivetrain is unobtrusive and seamless in its operation, blending electric voltage with the power from a small petrol engine to achieve another figure that takes us back to the beginning. While purely electric plug-in cars give rise to range anxiety (especially when you live

D ESELTUNE N Z

in the countryside), the Swift Hybrid outperforms petrol cars on range. $100 worth of petrol will take you 1,220 kilometres, as opposed to 1,042 in the normal Swift GS Automatic.

The best part? Hybrids used to ‘value signal’ due to their price; an investment in saving the planet. With the new Swift Hybrid priced under $30k brand new, you’re saving the environment and your wallet at the same time.

T, WORK, P EA , L Y

AY

That’s because it’s basically just a Swift. One of the best selling small cars of all time, to be sure, but nothing futuristic, weirdly sculpted or finished in lashings of carbon fibre and magnesium.

It’s a car that we’re all familiar with, and which, as noted when it was first launched, carries on the ethos of the old Leyland Mini; four wheels at the corners, space for some passengers, and just enough go to make you smile.

Fast forward a few generations, and the new Swift is a handsome little beast, with the determinedly growly visage of puppy and the fresh, semi-disrupted glasshouse line of BMW’s i3.

It’s packed with safety features like adaptive cruise control, radar brake assistance and a reversing camera, to name a few, it has full Bluetooth integration, comfy seats and a nice big touch screen as well.

The extras are all in the figures, which are largely hidden under the hood. This Swift may look, drive and feel just like its entirely petrol-driven counterpart, but the addition of an electric motor changes one big number; fuel consumption.

Pared down to 4.1L/100km, this is the defining characteristic of the Swift Hybrid; it will get you where you want to go, cheaper. A lithium-ion battery

35

THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING LOCAL

Providing NZ with a wide selection of Boat and Box Trailers WHEN IT COMES TO REAL VALUE – WE’LL HOOK YOU UP! Locally owned and operated

DESIGNED BY KIWIS FOR KIWIS

your complete diesel repair specialist 09 407 5514 | 021 057 7442 20 Kerikeri Inlet Rd Kerikeri - PO Box 885, Kerikeri, 0230

-- PICK UP AND NATIONWIDE DELIVERY AVAILABLE --

Ph 0800 100 055 WWW.ULTRATRAILERS.CO.NZ

USED TRACTORS & MACHINERY SAM 4.75T TANDEM AXLE FERT 2004 JOHN DEERE 6420 SPREADER .............................. $14,500 CAB TRACTOR ........................ $46,000 POSTDRIVER ............................ $8,500

2 x PALLET FORKS ............. FROM $600 2005 JOHN DEERE 6220 TRACTOR .............................. $40,000 BERTI TSB 200 MULCHER .......... $5,000 FIELDMASTER GMM270 PEARSON 2.4M GRADER BLADE $4,000 TOPPER .................................... $6,900 SAM 3.25 TANDEM SPREADER $13,500 BERTI 1.8 MULCHER.................. $3,500 All prices exclude gst

®

PH 408 0670 or Evan 027 481 2188 FX 408 2949 • North Road Kaitaia

EM sales@kaitaiatractors.co.nz • www.kaitaiatractors.co.nz

Your one-stop professional team, available for on-site servicing, mechanical and engineering repairs on all trucks and machinery, including mobile hydraulic hose service

Phone: 09 401 1015 Mobile: 027 549 5399 State Highway 12, Kaikohe

Service agents for

Email: info@adauto.co.nz

36

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

NEW DEFENDER HD10 PICK-UP THE BEST IN CLASS DEFENDER WITH EXTENDED CAPABILITIES

WORK EASY WITH

®

TOUGH, CAPABLE, CLEVER LARGEST BED IN INDUSTRY: 4,5 FT X 6 FT | MADE TO GO AND WORK ANYWHERE TRANSFORMS INTO A FLATBED | ADAPTS TO ANYTHING - 100’S 0F ACCESSORIES LOADS EVERYTHING | HUGE VOLUME CAPACITY AND STORAGE OPTIONS

Famlands shareholders get a 2.5%* discount on any new Can-Am Side-by-Side and 5%* discount on any Can-Am ATV, parts, labour, and servicing. ©2020 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc (BRP). All rights reserved. ™, ®, and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. Always ride responsibly and safely. Always wear protective gear & approved helmet. BRP reserves the right to change the promotion at any time. *Terms and Conditions apply.

CLICK

WE KEEP YOU FARMING Talk to us today about our new click and ride program! ®

AND

RIDE

SEARCH INVENTORY PURCHASE ONLINE UNIT DELIVERED TO DOORSTEP

Hikurangi: Rouse Motorcycles Ph: 09 433 8471 | Kaitaia: Kaitaia Tractors Ph: 09 408 0670 Warkworth/Kaiwaka: Warkworth Motorcycles Ph: 09 425 8535 | Dargaville: Northland Motor Sports Ph: 0800 120 236 ®

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

37

YOUR PARTNER IN THE PADDOCK. SAVE $500 OFF RRP ON YZ65!

SAVE $750 OFF RRP ON YZ125!

SAVE $750 OFF RRP ON YZ250F, YZ250, WR250F AND YZ250X/FX!

SAVE $1000 OFF RRP ON WR450F AND YZ450F/FX!

PLUS GET

2.95% P.A. FIXED INTEREST RATE FINANCE ON A 36 MONTH TERM ACROSS THE ENTIRE OFF-ROAD RANGE*

MF 5700 SERIES 92 – 102 HP The MF 5700 Series is built to meet everyday farming challenges all year round. Featuring unmatched flexibility, dependable operation and outstanding fuel economy, the MF 5700 Series is designed to ensure ease-of-use and rock-solid reliability. Whatever the job, get it done with the straightforward and affordable Massey Ferguson 5700 Series.

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL MASSEY FERGUSON DEALER TODAY

BRYANT TRACTORS LTD YAMAHA MOTORCYCLES WHANGAREI PH: 09 438 0804 | admin@yamahawhg.co.nz * Advertised savings amount maximum of $1000 off RRP (including GST). The discount varies for each model and available for new Yamaha YZ65L, YZ85L, YZ85LWL, YZ125L, YZ250L, YZ125XL, YZ250XL, YZ250F, YZ250FXL, WR250FL, YZ450F, YZ450FXL, WR450FL. Offer available for private buyers only on specified models, and warranty registered on or before the 30/09/20. Finance: 2.95% p.a. is available to approved personal applicants on a loan term of 24 or 36 months on YMF’s Consumer contract standard terms and conditions. Credit criteria, fees, charges and conditions apply including an application fee of $325, $10 PPSR fee and a dealer administration fee. Finance is provided by Yamaha Motor Finance New Zealand Ltd. (‘YMF’) NZBN 9429036270798. FSP 9622. Offer only available between 1/07/20 to 30/09/20 at participating Yamaha dealerships while stocks last. Accessories may differ from image shown. See your participating authorised Yamaha dealership for details.

38 Rewa Rewa Road, Raumanga, Whangarei P: 09 438 1319 | E: sales@bryanttractors.co.nz | Web: www.bryanttractors.co.nz Murray 027 490 9379 | Ivo 027 368 3920 | Nick 027 490 9826 MASSEYFERGUSON.COM.AU

A world of experience. Working with you.

NZ MADE, NZ TOUGH, NZ QUALITY HARDENED STEEL BUSHES & PINS • Metric & Imperial • Suppliers of Bushes & Pins • Suppliers of Shim & Pin Seals • Over 6,000 Bushes in Stock • Over 200 Sizes

09 478 7880

sales@actibush.co.nz | www.actibush.co.nz

38

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

VEHICLES, HEAVY MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT

Beast from another continent

FIVE YEARS OF DEVELOPMENT HAS ARRIVED!

$20,865 EX GST Special 100% finance rate offered by UDC

2020 Upgrade Model. Still at the Old Price!

THE BEST YET!!!

UPGRADES Electophoresis anticorrosion treatment of entire vehicle; Centralised greasing system; Updated, more powerful 1,000cc engine; Enhanced turning circle; Upgraded suspension;

Tel. 03 347 4956 Mob. 027 477 0070 Machinery Limited

www.tuataraatv.com info@tuataraatv.com

Pay attention!

around road works

$

by Andy Bryenton

When Toyota went to Australia, it discovered a landscape where the Land Rover was king. Dust, heat, distance and rough terrain combined to make this army-bred Brit the weapon of choice for hardy outback dwellers. Its market share was absolute, its brand loyalty ironclad.

Not long afterwards, the Land Cruiser was born, and all the graphs went south for the Brits. Pretty soon, it was known that the red parts of Oz were Toyota country. Replace the geography with Kiwi farmland, and the big ‘cruiser for the Hilux, and you have a recipe for how things went here in the 80s. However, in the US, it was a little different.

There, the king was the Ford F150, a vehicle so popular that one is sold to a patriot of the States every half a minute.

It had pedigree, simplicity, a whacking great V8 mill and good ol’ credentials to match Levi’s or Smith and Wesson.

Toyota took note, then took notes. Then they answered with the Tundra.

This massive ute is, in actuality, a true pickup truck, and the current model has the big 5.7-litre, high torque, 381 horsepower V8 to back up its claims.

It’s the only full-sized pickup made in Texas (San Antonio to be exact). In fact, Toyota is even more precise in drilling down for some US pedigree for what is the only Japanese/American pickup. Its ‘1794’ edition is named for the colonial cattle ranch which once existed where the Toyota factory now stands. It comes with saddle brown leather seats and

The Tundra is not just the biggest Toyota you can get without an HT licence, it’s also something else that’s hard to get in the modern ute market; pure eye-catching showmanship

all the wild west trim; regular models simply make do with being as big as all outdoors.

There’s the appeal of this monster in a nutshell; it’s immense. If you need to carry large loads and do so in comfort, there’s nothing quite like a top-spec American pickup. Nothing, that is, but a Japanese version which promises Toyota’s legendary build quality and indestructible nature along with improved handling. it’s a potent combination and one which is now

making its way on to Kiwi highways.

The success of RAM trucks — Dodge’s big pickups — may have had something to do with this, but it’s equally possible that the appeal was purely organic; what’s better than a big Hilux? The big brother of the Hilux!

Tundra New Zealand is the specialist that brings the imposing and powerful pickup here, fitting it out for righthand drive and performing other small conversion miracles and tasteful switchouts at its Queenstown facility.

6,990 FREE

RIDE AWAY

CST ABUZZ TYRE UPGRADE VALUED AT $500

*Ride away prices quoted exclude GST. See www.cfmoto.co.nz for more information. Any promotions are not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer ends 30th September 2020.

Gatmans Mowers & More Silverdale | P: 0800 800 960

Northland Powersports

Whangarei | P: (09) 437 5451

Maungaturoto Motorcycles

Maungaturoto | P: (09) 431 8555

www.cfmoto.co.nz

Rob Titter Farm Services

Kaikohe | P: (09) 401 1774

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES September 2020

39

Northern Rural Marketplace ATJ

Acraflex Dairy Wall Coatings

SELF DRIVE MACHINERY HIRE

• Rollers 1.5 - 13 tonne • Diggers 1-20 tonne • Site dumpers 1-10 tonne • Loaders, Trailers, Plate Compactors etc

Colourcrete Dairy Floor Resurfacing System

Call the team at ATJ for your hire needs

Warkworth 09 425 8845 or Aaron on 021 210 0493 4 Morrosion Drive, Warkworth

WELLSFORD SALE MONDAYS 12:00pm - Store Cattle

Andrew Simpson

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

*TreeGuyz* Arborists & Tree Contractors

Steers | Bulls | Heifers | Weaner

• Tree Felling/Dismantling • Stump Grinding/ Chipping • Storm Damage Removal

TUESDAYS 11:00am - Sheep 12:00pm - Prime Cattle

Your Carrfields Agent for Kaipara/Rodney area

Steers | Bulls | Heifers | Boners

CONTACT Andrew Simpson

11:00am - Calves (seasonal) 12:00pm - Dairy (seasonal)

PH 027 449 1228 EMAIL andrewsimpson.ns@hotmail.com

BEEF / DAIRY / SHEEP 100% NZ owned

DARGAVILLE SALE THURSDAYS 11:30am - Feeder Calves 12:30pm - Store Cattle

• Winching • Digger/Hiab/Grapples • Free Quote/Qualified & Insured

Email: treeguyz@outlook.com

www.treeguyz.co.nz

Phone ALAN 027 227 or 09 435 0399

5095

“We just love your trees to bits!”

Harrison Water Ram Pumps 4 Models

Pump water on your farm or to your house 24/7 NO Electricity Bills.

15-2 0mm price Model $895 s from .0

Also Available Solar Water Pumps (No Batteries)

0 Inc

Enquiries: harrisons@actrix.co.nz, Ph 027 483 9996 John or 022 059 5166

. GST

TREE WORK Tree climbing Tree felling Saw milling Firewood cutting & splitting Phone Daron

027 471 6927

IES CONSTRUCTION LTD. CONCRETE AND TILT SLAB CONSTRUCTION • • • •

Bridges Farm buildings Feed pads Bins

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

info@locksmart.co.nz

www.locksmart.co.nz

www.animalherbs.co.nz

Northland Laser Drainage Ltd Neil Carter Trading as

Doug Wilson Manager Phone: Fax: Mobile: Email:

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

Specialising in Fertiliser and Metal cartage.

30 Tonne units available.

We cover your country!

Subsurface Drainage Specialists (Nth) All Services & Maintenance Available PO Box 1174, Whangarei Ph 09 434 7741 • Mobile 027 273 6865

We courier to your door!

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

• Solutions for control of fleas, ticks • Consult with Pat for solutions and worms with WashBar products, to skin problems and other Diatomaceous Earth and Flee Flea health issues for your pet • Herbal and Homeopathic remedies • Orijen Organic Dog and Cat Food — no grains for you and your animals

Ph 09 432 0820

1279 S/H 14, MAUNGATAPERE

Email: homeopat@ubernet.co.nz Visit: homeopat@ubernet.co.nz to buy online

* House Wash

S

TAN

* Concrete Clean

EMENOFF LIVESTOCK LTD

* Gutter Clean * Roof Treatments

Phone: 09 407 9992

1556a Springbank Road, Kerikeri 0293 Phone: 021 473 855 Email: lthomson1703@gmail.com

Mike: 027 497 2935 OR Scotty: 027 274 3787 STAN SEMENOFF LIVESTOCK LTD P: 0800 800 585 LIVESTOCK@SEMENOFFGROUP.CO.NZ

aaron@washrite.co.nz

* Cowshed Wash

022 438 8838

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

For Sale

For Sale

Livestock

Situations Vacant

ATV MATS from $89 — Come in & see us at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi. Ph 0800 963 636. www.atvtyres.co.nz.

CHICKEN MANURE for sale in bulk or small lots - $20 cubic metre plus freight call 09 432 2444 or 027 476 5458.

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. Ph 0800 963 636. www. atvtyres.co.nz. Subject to availability.

HERITAGE APPLE Trees from $25 – Hardy root stocks – Diversify your Farm with an Orchard tree pack www.tastytrees.co.nz, call 09 408 5443.

FREE-FLOW FROZEN DOG CHUNKS / MINCE. DOG / PUPPY BISCUITS — no artificial colour or preservatives, CHICKEN FEED / BIRDSEED / RAT BAIT from Northland Seed, Okara Drive, Whangarei.

Phone 09 438 0884.

FULL TIME POSITION AVAILABLE

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

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

NEW YAMAHA FARM ATVs — 5.9% interest & 3 year warranty. Only at Rouse Motorcycles, King Street, Hikurangi — phone 0800 963 636 & Yamaha MC Whangarei. Ph 09 438 0804

Garden SEED POTATOES, New Seasons, FERTILISER – Organic Blood & Bone, Citrus, General plus more from Northland Seed, Okara Drive, Whangarei.

Phone 09 438 0884

LUCERNE CHAFF plus more HORSE FEED, CALF REARERS get your Milk Powder and Meal from Northland Seed, Okara Drive, Whangarei. Phone 09 438 0884.

Farming & Lifestyle SEED POTATOES, New Seasons, FERTILISER – Organic Blood & Bone, Citrus, General plus more from Northland Seed, Okara Drive, Whangarei.

Phone 09 438 0884

Varied duties, Tractor/ Machinery Operator - Mechanical skills and/or Class 5 license an advantage.

Call Karl 027 493 2206

Arrive Alive...

Don’t Drink and Drive

40

September 2020

NORTHERN FARMING LIFESTYLES

LOW COST

400CC QUIET

OF OWNERSHIP

ECONOMICAL ENGINE

LOW SERVICING COSTS DESIGNED WITH SERVICING IN MIND

BUILT TO LAST 400CC ENGINE IS MOUNTED ON REAR SUBFRAME FOR UNDENIABLE TRACTABILITY

KAWASAKI

HEAVY ENGINEERING

$13,909

BUILT KAWASAKI STRONG USING KHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES TECHNOLOGY

WINDSCREEN IS NOT INCLUDED AND IS AN OPTIONAL ACCESSORY. PRICE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. WHILE STOCKS LAST.

+GST

LOW COST

700CC QUIET,

KAWASAKI

LOW SERVICING COSTS DESIGNED WITH SERVICING IN MIND

ROBUST 700CC SINGLE PACKS PUNCH LOCKABLE DIFFERENTIAL AND FULL ENGINE BRAKING

BUILT KAWASAKI STRONG USING KHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES TECHNOLOGY

OF OWNERSHIP

POWERFUL ENGINE

HEAVY ENGINEERING

$17,995

+GST

SEE YOUR LOCAL DEALER TODAY OR VISIT

www.kawasaki.co.nz

DARGAVILLE

WINDSCREEN AND WIPERS NOT INCLUDED AND ARE OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES.

KAIWAKA

C A Motorcycles - 104 Jervois St, Dargaville | 09 439 0170

Warkworth Motorcycles Kaiwaka - 1916 SH 1 | 09 431 2123

HIKURANGI

KAIKOHE

WARKWORTH

WHANGAREI

Rouse Motorcycles - 1 King St, Hikurangi | 09 433 8471

Warkworth Motorcycles - 22 Whitaker Rd | 09 425 8535

Rob Titter Farm Services - 55 Station Rd E | 09 401 1774

Shaw Motorcycles - 111 Cameron Street | 09 438 1183