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by Grant McCallum, MP for Northland
As we look towards the future of Northland, it’s clear that a strong vocational education sector is central to our region’s ongoing success.
Vocational training here is not just about filling workforce gaps. It’s about empowering our people, strengthening our industries, and unlocking the potential of our communities.
Northland’s key sectors, including agriculture, horticulture, tourism and technology, all depend on a skilled workforce ready to meet new challenges. By developing accessible and relevant education programmes, we can open up more opportunities for our youth, encouraging them to build their futures right here at home.
Up-to-date facilities and quality student accommodation send a strong signal that Northland welcomes and values new talent. At the same time, digital innovation is allowing us to reach even the most remote communities, making sure every Northlander has the chance to access high-quality education.
One of the most exciting aspects of this progress is the collaboration taking place across our region. Local institutions, employers, iwi and community groups are coming together to ensure that what’s taught in the classroom truly matches what Northland businesses need. This partnership means students have clear pathways from learning to employment through initiatives, such as targeted apprenticeships and hands-on training with local enterprises. Investing in modern infrastructure is another priority.
Looking ahead, important decisions about NorthTec’s direction are expected in early 2026. To support rural training and improve flexible, blended learning opportunities, the government has committed $20 million annually over the next two years. From 2026, with the return of local governance to 10 regionally governed polytechnics, including NorthTec, our institutions will be better placed to respond to the needs of our communities. Plans are also underway for new facilities in Whangārei, which will further boost Northland’s ability to retain and develop talent.
Together, through continued investment and partnership, we can ensure vocational education remains a cornerstone of Northland’s growth and prosperity.
by Paul Campbell
Applications are sought for next year’s
“Six scholarships, worth a total of $30,000, are on offer for the 2026 academic year to tertiary students enrolled in relevant agriculture, horticulture, science or viticulture degrees,” said MPI’s director of On Farm Support, Vanessa Winning.
“We’re seeking applications from students who have a genuine interest in pursuing a career in either the agriculture, horticulture or viticulture advisory sector. Applicants must have completed their first year of study.”
Ms Winning says there’s strong demand for on-farm advice backed by science and analysis that can support producers to adapt and improve business performance.
“MPI is backing initiatives that support farmers and growers to sustainably boost productivity and profitability, helping to achieve the government’s goal of doubling the value of exports by 2034.”
One of the inaugural recipients of the On Farm Support Science Scholarship, Ffion White, is now an intern with Ballance Agri-Nutrients in the ManawatūWhanganui region.
“I’m getting to work on-farm alongside Ballance’s nutrient specialists. My role is about helping farmers improve their soil, grow better quality pasture and crops, and become more productive and profitable,”
Ms White says.
“The scholarship was hugely beneficial.
I had a mentor from MPI’s On Farm Support team, who invited me to industry field days and events. It helped me meet people in the sector, which came in handy when I started looking for a job.”
Ms White, who completed a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at Massey University, is one of four scholarship recipients who have secured primary industry advisory roles. Another is Nerissa Edwards, who now works as a farm consultant.
“Every day is different. I find it hugely rewarding working with farmers to create individual plans to drive improvements in on-farm efficiency, profitability, and sustainability,” Ms Edwards says.
MPI launched the On Farm Support Science Scholarships in 2023. Applications close on September 15, with further information available on MPI’s website.
by Andy Bryenton
The winter of consumer discontent has been brightened for the coalition government by news that farmers, at the front lines of economic regeneration, have expressed a boost in confidence.
While the ANZ Roy Morgan consumer confidence index dropped four points in early 2025, rival bank Westpac has recorded small gains in this field recently, and inflation held steady at 2.7 per cent. That’s not a particularly rosy outlook, especially in the face of a continuing cost-of-living crisis, but the bellwether for a return to economic strength has always been seen by the ruling National Party as the farming sector.
That’s why Agriculture Minister Todd McClay was enthusiastic to share the results of the latest Federated Farmers’ confidence survey late in July; a poll, which puts farming optimism up to +33 per cent. That’s a stark contrast to the -66 per cent, recorded at the end of the former Labour administration’s tenure, after the public relation disasters of SNA mapping, the ute tax and intimations of freshwater regulatory overreach.
“After years of rising costs and uncertainty, our focus is on giving farmers the tools to do what they do best — lead the world in producing high-quality food and fibre. That means replacing the Resource Management Act, changing national direction, including the National Policy Statement on Freshwater Management, and launching a contestable wellbeing
fund to support rural New Zealand,” Mr McClay said.
The minister praised the approximately 360,000 Kiwis engaged in primary production on the land, and took the time to criticise extensive regulatory pressures as a ‘war of farmers’, which he says his colleagues in the coalition have cancelled.
“It’s pleasing to see policy changes returning value to the farm gate,” he said. “This government has worked hard to change the settings, but there’s still more to do to ensure farmers can deliver growth for all New Zealanders.”
The measure of confidence in the Feds’ poll may be grounded in policy alterations to an extent, but record profits at the farm gate are also in the mix. A quarter of farmers now expect to increase production in the next year, two-thirds are operating with a profit, and there’s even indications that stress and its associated health issues are on the wane.
While the government touts an eightyear high for farmer confidence, Mr McClay’s assertion that there is a lot left to do rings as true as any of the statistics he’s shared. There is a lot to do to convert these green shoots in the primary sector into palpable prosperity in the main street and in homes, ahead of an election, which will be defined by the cost of living.
Congratulations to Donna Shadick from Baylys Beach and Jon Walker of Arapohue, who won the double passes generously given by the Beer of Islands team. We hope you both enjoyed your time there and the beverages on offer.
by Shane Jones, New Zealand First List MP
We are still struggling with the fiscal overhang from the Covid spend up and our infrastructure deficit remains.
Our ability to deliver projects rapidly is work in progress; we need momentum, less red tape and trade-offs.
Northland will grow with significant investment. A new highway over the Brynderwyns, rail link to Marsden Point, a dry dock facility, extending the four-lane highway, upgrading our energy transmission and boosting investment at Marsden Point are all on the cards.
The developments will be delivered through the FastTrack legislation.
Climate change hysterics should be ignored. We cannot — and will not — close down our economy due to unrealistic UN demands. Our exports have declined as a percentage of GDP and the imposition of US tariffs makes our job harder.
The cost of electricity can be reduced by changing the rules in the market and boosting investment in new generation. This will mean more coal and gas in addition to renewables. The virtue-signalling rejection of fossil fuels is drawing to a close; our electricity system cannot function without coal.
Our children need to see optimism and dynamism in our leadership. This applies to civic politics as well as parliamentary representation. We cannot afford to have our future hijacked by green mania. Mining, farming, fisheries are all areas we can expand to create more jobs and revenue.
New Zealand First is a champion for nationhood building, respect for service and security for all Kiwis.
Our contribution to the government is evident but we must do more. We will ensure that the excesses of wokeism, green neurosis and Treaty overreach are addressed.
See you at our upcoming meeting to hear more on New Zealand First’s efforts to boost our regions.
by Paul Campbell
Kiwi shearing guns Toa Henderson and Jack Fagan, having completed highly successful tours of the UK and France, are looking to the Shearing Sports New Zealand season, which starts at the New Zealand Merino championships in Alexandra in October.
Their countrymen are still flying the flag, with fellow Kiwi shearer Hugh de Lacy winning the Northern Ireland Lambshearing Championships wool open title at the beginning of this month.
Working in Omagh, de Lacy has been one of several New Zealand shearers working and competing in the UK and Ireland in recent weeks, in addition to the New Zealand team of two that has now completed their test series. Northland’s Toa Henderson and Jack Fagan as the
Wools of New Zealand representative team faced six test matches in a fournations tour starting in Scotland after Toa claimed his place as winner of the New Zealand Open Shearing Championship, and Fagan, who was in the Wools of New Zealand tour team last year, retained his position as third placegetter in the New Zealand Shears Circuit final.
The Kiwis, who were managed by King Country competitions judge Neil Fagan, are also setting sights on the 2026 Golden
Shears World Shearing and Woolhandling Championships in Masterton.
The 35-year-old Henderson was determined to make sure his first international bid was a success. “He was taking one step at a time, buoyed by the support of his Kaiwaka community, especially the rugby club, where he has played as a flanker in the past, and his father, Mike, has been a coach,” said Shearing Sports New Zealand communications officer Doug Laing.
“His 2025 Golden Shears and New Zealand championships open finals double was celebrated at a function put on by the club in his honour. Henderson is the front-runner for one of the two world championships’ New Zealand machineshearing berths with wins in the first three events in the selection series, but that is all eight to nine months away.
“Preparing for his first trip to the Northern Hemisphere, he was looking forward to the confrontation, and just
getting into the swing of the competitions again. There hasn’t been a lot of shearing (in Northland), he said then, but that ‘it’s been wet up here, but it’s still enough to pay the bills’.”
Toa was unable to complete the big dream of victory at the Lochearnhead Shears in Scotland at the tour opening, but went on to top honours in France with his first big success in the Northern Hemisphere by winning the open international final at the French championships, while Fagan also beat France in a test match. Back in the UK both kiwis continued a downunder dominance of England at the Great Yorkshire Show by winning the second test of their tour.
On to Wales and two Welsh shearers, who have worked numerous summers in New Zealand, struck the first blow to their hopes of winning a new test series as Gethin Lewis and Llyr Jones beat them by a comfortable margin of 6.1 points. However, better was to come and the Kiwi team completed their tour in style by a comfortable 4.05 points.
Fagan had the fastest time, the best points in the pens and overall quality points, shearing the 20 lambs in 11m 23s. Henderson was next off, six seconds later, and with the best points in judging on the shearing board. Still, Wales still claimed a two–one series victory, having won the first two tests of the home leg of
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the annual series. Overall the pair in the black singlets squared the score sheet by beating England and France after the Scotland loss in their opening contest.
Henderson did go close though, as runner-up to reigning world champion Gwion Evans in the six-man Corwen Shears Open All-Nations final but missing out by 0.2 points.
Doug Laing says Henderson “will be back home with the proud record of a particularly big first tour in the UK, winning open finals in France and at the Royal Welsh Show.
“Fagan was unable to repeat any of the four wins he had in open finals on last year’s tour, but also reached five of the
six finals, for second place at Yorkshire and in France, third at the Royal Welsh Show, fourth at Cothi, and the fifth placing at Corwen.
“Fagan has also won four speedshear titles, including retaining the Welsh international title. A special moment came when the two took part in the haka just before the test. Henderson took the role of kaea (haka leader) in what was thought to be the first time team members have taken part in what has become an obligation for New Zealanders at competitions in Wales. In fact, the haka is sometimes joined by Welsh shearers, who have learnt it during their working seasons in New Zealand.”
by Amy Fifita
Coby Warmington is building upon his family foundations, working and developing Waimā Topu Beef Ltd to
area he grew up in.
Born and brought up in Waimā, Coby’s parents, Jacine and Rob, raised him alongside his brothers, Tahu and Haaki. Learning from the local Te Kura o Waimā from years one to eight, before attending Northland College in Kaikohe, Coby knows his roots and continues to contribute to the village that raised him.
“They say it takes a village to raise a child, and I feel I am a product of our village,” said Coby.
“I had a great upbringing, spending a lot of time with friends and cousins swimming and eeling in the rivers, riding horses and dirt bikes, and having fun outdoors.
“My grandfather worked the family farm just down the road, so we spent a lot of time there. Growing cattle, sheep, pigs and chickens and gardening to feed our whānau, I always wanted to continue the traditions of growing food to eat and share. Sheep and beef farming was a way I could do that.”
With a love of working outdoors and family connections to Waimā Topu Beef Ltd, Coby was drawn to the sheep and beef farm.
“I like to be challenged in my mahi. Sheep and beef farming provide a huge range of tasks, so I never become bored. I am continually forced to learn new skills and think outside the box.
“Our whānau are beneficiaries of the whenua, and I thought, who better to look after the land than someone who is from
here? We farm 385 effective hectares of rolling hill country, where we grow and finish bull beef.
“We run up to 900 bulls in intensive cell grazing systems, buying in weaner calves and growing them through to slaughter. In the past five years, the farm has undergone a huge amount of development.”
As the farm developed, so too did Coby’s learning. He says fencing, water reticulation system, weed control,
roadways, drainage and a new cattle yard have transformed the underutilised land into a productive finishing farm.
“The development has created local employment, and is helping to restore the mana of the whenua. The farm is 100% owned by Waimā Topu B Ahuwhenua Trust.
“Everyone involved has played a huge part in the development of the farm, and it’s great to see the investment now giving returns through increased production.
“We also employ locals for any casual and fixed-term projects, and use ag contractors where possible. It was awesome to see local people working on the whenua, building skills and enjoying the work. As kaitiaki, we want the best for our environment, so as part of the development, we have excluded areas from grazing, potentially posing a risk to our taio (environment). Waterways, native forests and erosion-prone areas have
been fenced off and retired from grazing, and native trees have been planted in these areas.”
Strongly driven to help the community he grew up in thrive through his farming role, Coby extends his aid to the area with his other passions — horse riding and training, rugby and league.
“This year, I am coaching the Taheke United Small Blacks team. I love seeing our tamariki grow skills and build confidence. Our children in the Hokianga have so much raw talent, but sometimes lack the support systems to go further in their sports.”
This year, Coby stepped out of his comfort zone and competed in the Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer Awards. He won the 2025 Ahuwhenua Young Māori Farmer Award.
“I was challenged to express myself and share my ideas. As a shy Māori boy
from Hokianga, it was difficult at first, but through the encouragement of everyone involved with the awards, I was able to build my confidence and contribute to discussions.
“I was amazed to be around so many genuine people who want Māori people to prosper. I recommend entering the award to any keen farmers out there, as the experience for me was life-changing.”
With a strong connection to the area, Coby says his parents have inspired him to dig deep and succeed in anything he pursues. He says receiving a great upbringing and support continues to drive him in farming and to recreate the experience for his young family.
“I am inspired to do my best for this farm by my ancestors, because they had a vision to see this land and its people thriving. I am trying to be the best to see this vision realised.”
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Nestled just off SH12 at 1A Recreation Road, Pioneer Village Kaikohe is a
Established in 1977, the village spans five serene acres and features 10 restored heritage buildings, and additional 12 purpose-built facilities.
The museum houses well over 5,000 historical items, from kauri milling machinery, settler cottages and memories. From New Zealand’s oldest standing courthouse to vintage machinery and taonga, the village is a place where stories come alive.
It’s not just a museum — it’s a community treasure, a space for learning, gathering and celebrating the spirit of the mid-north.
This living museum is powered by passionate volunteers who restore relics, guide tours and bring local history to life with warmth and creativity.
This season, PVK hosts a line-up of spirited events: Daffodil Day on August 30, and pairs vintage cars with cancer fundraising. The Wild West Carnival on September 20 offers frontier-themed fun, while Halloween, on October 31, transforms historic buildings into enchanted forests. These events build connections, celebrate heritage and foster community pride across generations.
by John Arts, Abundant Health Ltd
I recently wrote about coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). I regularly have contact from readers about CoQ10, especially from those wanting help with the side effects of statin cholesterollowering 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 and statin neuropathy. The main side effects are muscle and tendon pain. Muscles and nerves have huge energy requirements and reducing cell energy can have devastating effects on muscles and nerves.
Reductions in CoQ10 can affect mood, memory and general cognitive function. In most cases, two months of a naturally fermented CoQ10 will improve muscle and brain function, and allow people to get the benefits of the medication without side effects.
those with cardiovascular, autoimmune and neurodegenerative problems. For example, I include at least 200mg for those with polymyalgia rheumatica and higher doses for those with MS.
For statin support, I use a high-quality naturally fermented CoQ10, and for autoimmune or neurodegenerative support, a mitochondrial support formula that includes high-grade CoQ10 with several energy co-factors. The first improvement felt by those with these conditions is usually a lift in energy and general wellbeing.
Our venue can also be hired for weddings, private functions, children’s birthday parties and train rides, meetings and catering. Contact our manager Kelly van Gaalen for more information on 09 401 0816.
Pioneer Village Kaikohe isn’t just preserving the past. It’s growing together with Kaikohe’s future. Check out our Facebook page for more details and see what other exciting activities we offer or visit pioneervillage.org.nz.
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 moves them to an enzyme called ATP synthase to make the energy we need.
I recommend CoQ10 for several reasons, most commonly for statin support. I also add CoQ10 for those fatigued without medical causes and for
Those with autoimmune or neurodegenerative 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 (Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on 0800 423 559 or email john@abundant.co.nz. Join his newsletter at abundant.co.nz.
by Andy Bryenton
The government has unlocked new possibilities for homes with solar panels, expanding the permitted voltage range for electricity networks so more excess power can be sold back into the grid.
It’s part of a sweeping set of changes involving solar photovoltaic technology.
Building and energy ministers Simon Watts and Chris Penk have confirmed that changes are being made to ensure that a building consent is not needed to install solar panels on existing buildings, slashing through some of the red tape, which has made many homeowners question whether the move to solar is affordable.
There’s also the requirement from Wellington that local councils must process the resource consents of homes with planned solar arrays within 10 days, down from the previously acceptable 20. This means a faster, smoother process for buildings which will harvest the sun’s rays for electricity. It also represents about $400 in savings on paperwork alone.
“New Zealand’s residential uptake of rooftop solar is lower than many other countries. This government wants to change that, so more Kiwis can generate, store and send their own electricity back to the market. This will allow them to save
on their power bills and contribute to a more secure electricity system,” Mr Watts says.
“Rooftop solar will play a crucial role in supporting energy security and reducing emissions. However, our networks need to be able to better support the growing flow of electricity from consumers, while also dealing with growing demand for more electric vehicle charging.
The government says that modelling it’s undertaken shows that expanding the voltage range of the network to plus or minus 10 per cent could push solar investment by home and business owners up, and pump an additional 507 gigawatt-hours into the grid from excess small solar array capacity. It’s the kind of voltage boost the nation needs.
“We need the right incentives in place to make rooftop solar a realistic option for Kiwis,” says Mr Penk.
“The government is focussed on getting people into safe, affordable homes faster, and we want those homes
to be sustainable and future-ready.
With the energy system preparing for a surge in residential solar, the consenting process needs to play its part to support the transition.”
“Delivering the best outcomes for New Zealanders is incredibly important to minister Penk and me,” says Mr Watts. “Expanding the voltage range could help avoid hundreds of millions of dollars in infrastructure upgrade costs to accommodate rooftop solar and EV charging being passed on to Kiwi households.”
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by Amy Fifita
As we are in the thick of winter, some of us may want to heat-proof our homes to make the most out of our wood and electricity bills, so — how do we do that?
Tackling the dampness and chill of winter can be a mission, and sometimes finding a balance is difficult. Knowing the house matters.
Condensation, damp patches, mildew or mould, and musty smells are all signs of a damp home. Not only is it bad for the house, but it is also detrimental to people’s health. Airing out the home when the weather is mild does help, as do venting systems, dehumidifiers and moisture absorbers.
Thermal curtains are a great option for keeping the heat in the home. They do more than keep the house warm, though, as they also help keep the summer heat out. Offering more than functionality, a curtain can make a great statement in the home, depending on the design and style you select.
Double glazing helps regulate temperature and insulate any
home, but there are also costfriendly options, such as window insulation kits. The kits consist of a clear film creating a layer of still air between the window and the film barrier. They can be bought at most hardware stores for a reasonable price.
Insulating floors, ceilings and walls ensures the home is warm and dry. Closing unused rooms and putting draught stoppers across doors also seals the warm air in, meaning less electricity or wood needs to be used to heat the home.
Having a look at the outside of the house can also provide telltale signs of potential issues. Assessing the spouting can help homeowners identify where extra moisture is coming in. If the drains or spouting are flowing on to or into the house, it can cause damage. With a dry and warm house established, you and your family can live in a healthy home.
by Andy Bryenton
season has brought — mud.
While it’s a hassle for some, it’s a playground for others, and fans of off-road action view the brown stuff with a mixture of respectful trepidation and unalloyed delight. There’s something about getting covered in mud, while deploying massive horsepower that brings out the little kid in some petrolheads, and those that make off-roading machines are switched on to the grin-inducing power of it all. CFMoto certainly gets it. The rising force in off-road power slammed into the EICMA festival at the end of 2024 with a bevy of new machines, but standing out among the pack was the Z10 SSV, an off-road racer built for speed over any terrain. It’s only 845kg, and packs a three-pot fourstroke mill that runs naturally aspirated, kicking out 143 horsepower. That might be less grunt than some competitors, but it’s a lighter weight as well. In fact, those figures pretty much match the specs of some very fun old-school sports cars, but the Z10 can deploy them off-road. Then again, you could go even lighter and more nimble with CFMoto’s Zforce 1000 EPS Sport R. It’s a handful of a
name, but it represents several levels of evolution from the standard Zforce 1000, turning it into a real mud-slinging and trail-crushing weapon. You know that they’re serious about going literally anywhere with oxygen when they send it from the factory with a winch attached.
While there’s no Kiwi price listed for the Z10 yet on the New Zealand CFMoto website, the Zforce EPS Sport R has one, and it’s a bit shocking. That’s because it’s fully one-third of the price of some competitors’ sport-segment off-roaders. Once again, it’s not a product aimed to win the horsepower and muscle race at the topend of the market, but it is designed to be a blast on any surface, mud included. If that’s your aim, buying three of these to have adventures with all your family and mates might look better than just getting one.
CFMoto revealed the aggressively-styled Z10 at EICMA last year
In all seriousness, CFMoto has pushed up the bar for the features and performance you can expect for your dollar in this segment. Both the Z10 and the smaller Zforce 1000 EPS Sport R have things like digital dashboards,
limited-slip diffs, standout mag wheels and comfy seats. If you want to have fun in the mud this winter, the range is worth a closer look. They might just need a power wash after you take them for a test drive.
by Paul Campbell
Cold and rain might be the norm in recent months but there is light on the
time to take stock of the house and prepare for brighter days ahead.
There are myriad ways to enhance the home in anticipation of longer days and more movement out of the winter hideaway to the wider home environment. It’s a good idea to start at the top to see the roof has stood up to the ravages of winter winds and wetness. While the average roof has a long lifespan, this isn’t a task that needs to be completed every
spring, but a good time to check before the summer heat comes.
Chances are the heat pump has done a fine home warming job over winter months and a simple check of its air condition cooling fan is now timely.
Perhaps the most popular aspect of the season coming up is that spring clean, and nothing does this more satisfyingly
than a lick of new paint. A simple new colour coat lifts up that outdated room, or you might completely refresh the interior or even the outside of the house. You’ve had the doors and windows closed more in the colder months and, as it warms up, it’s time to open up the house to the air and proper ventilation. Painting inside and out is also better when the humidity index is lower to improve the paint finish.
Spring is a great time to update the culinary sector, and that might mean a new appliance or cupboards, but again, a bit of paint, and perhaps some new curtains, will revitalise the kitchen and also the bathroom.
Of course, nothing will improve and add value to a home for the coming summer like a new deck attached to the house to cater for sunshine and barbecues. Spring then is the best time to start a deck modification or repair project, and
an early start will see the deck is ready for summer enjoyment.
It might even be a good time to look at extra living space in the home and a major project could be an addition, such as a granny flat, or a spare room as an office or study area for a soon-to-be teenager. Building can take a lot of time and effort, so spring provides better weather to help things along.
by Paul Campbell
Kiwis certainly live outside in the warmer season, and there
of
such as
the landscaping by adding garden pathways and outdoor lighting.
Of course, the really ambitious homeowner might look at a swimming pool, while most of us just dream. New outdoor activities are best tackled as milder weather arrives, when the ground is soft and the heat isn’t too much to handle.
If your home is in close proximity to trees, you should clean your gutters often. While everyone knows leaves can clog gutters, they can also be clogged by spring buds and other outdoor residue.
Flowering plants enhance any outdoor area, and gardens provide both beauty and sustenance. Whether you prefer to plant annuals every spring or let your perennials do their thing, there’s a good chance your flower beds need some extra attention coming out of winter. Remove weeds and debris, then fill in the bare spots with ground cover, flowers and shrubs. A new layer of mulch will help lock in moisture, control erosion, deter weed growth and more. Plus, it makes those summer blooms even more vibrant.
When mulching, avoid putting it around the house base as it can attract insects and hold moisture against the home, so gravel or small rocks make a safe border.
Beyond shrubbery, the lawn needs to grow thick and green by fertilising in the spring and early summer. If that means more mowing, so be it, but good fertiliser will ensure enhancing your green outlook.
As mentioned, gardens provide goodness for the family table, and spring vegetable planting gives you produce that’s high in vitamin C and energy to keep the family healthy and, at the same time, it helps the budget bottom line.
Plant now for maximum benefit with courgettes, peas and strawberries worth a thought, as are beans, Chinese favourite bok choy, cabbage, capsicum, carrots, kūmara, spinach, sweetcorn and tomatoes. Don’t forget new potatoes to enhance that Christmas dinner.
Irrigation is a must, and a nightly hose or watering can, with a water tank connected to downpipes to collect rainwater for watering plants and cleaning of gardening gear.
To enhance your food production, a good fertiliser will boost growth along. Most experts suggest home-produced compost is the best answer while, of course, your friendly local garden centre will always be happy with a recommendation.
1. Consultation
We’ll
3. Installation
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by Andy Bryenton
If you’re renovating this winter to sell in spring, take a hint from a recent US survey of real estate agents as to which parts of a property really swing the decision to invest and settle down.
Better bathrooms
These areas are a focus for intense scrutiny during open homes and can be a dealbreaker for many buyers. Functional, spacious and easy to clean are the keywords real estate professionals hear a lot; and the number of bathrooms buyers desire is rising, too. For many, having experienced the joys of his and hers bathrooms means never going back. En suites are also very much in vogue, especially in family homes where the main bathroom area is likely to see serious use by the youngsters.
Comprehensive kitchens
Trends come and go when it comes to kitchen design and appliances, but functionality is king in this part of the home. Storage scores more points than people would imagine, and so does the ability to change out appliances. Nothing’s worse than having a gap too small for your new oven or fridge. Kitchens and bathrooms both also benefit hugely from fresh flooring that’s waterproof and easy to clean, and extractors that get rid of steam silently.
What really makes a home stand out on sale? The answers may inform you on where to concentrate your renovation dollars
Hit the decks
Outdoor entertainment is a big part of summer, and a lot of home buyers don’t just think inside of the box when it comes to imagining their dream home.
Resurfacing the decks is an inexpensive way to make a good first impression, and give a clear indication that attention has gone into maintaining your property. Increasingly, deck space out of line of
sight to neighbours is sought for spa pools and stand-alone saunas.
Energy efficiency
It’s a new contender in the list of gamechanging factors that really motivate home buyers, but energy-smart ideas are now right up there with space, light and location. Homes with solar hot water heating, solar panels for power, battery banks and heat pump systems are in demand. So, too, are homes with charging points for electric vehicles. If you’re renovating with an eye to potential medium-term sale, look at clever energy options that could deliver more than what they cost when it’s time to sell.
Garage days revisited
There’s a tongue-in-cheek saying that ‘ladies buy a home, blokes buy a garage’. It’s actually truer than some might believe, and it’s not just the lads who want ample shed space. Anyone and everyone has hobbies, and while the obvious shedfillers like hot-rodding, motorcycling, boating and carpentry are all popular, gardening, model-making, sewing and home brewing all need shed space, too.
by Liz Clark
Taking a detour to Warkworth and the Kōwhai Coast, visitors to the region have the choice of two regional parks hugging the coast of the Hauraki Gulf.
Take the turn-off to Snells Beach and head out on the Mahurangi Peninsula to Scandrett Regional Park, where the history of the family that formerly lived there has been restored for all to enjoy.
The site covers 44 hectares of regenerating native coastal forest, rocky headlands extending into Kawau Bay, Scandretts Bay Beach and a collection of historic farm buildings. It extends to encompass the entirety of Mullet Point on the north-east tip.
In pre-European history, the park was known by mana whenua as Purahurawai, meaning ‘the expansive sparkling waters’. The headland at Mullet Point supported a significant pā site, which was named Mātairoa, referencing the extensive sea views from the site. The area was known for its plentiful forest and marine resources, like mullet, school sharks, whale and dolphin species.
George Scandrett purchased the site in 1864, and in the same year, constructed a barn, which is still standing today. Along with his wife Helena, George raised a
family of nine children in a cottage they lived in for 22 years before moving to a concrete villa in 1888. The farm they developed was named Lisadian after Scandrett’s home town in Ireland.
In 1998, the final generation of the Scandrett family put the farm up for sale; it was purchased by the former Auckland Regional Authority for a regional park. It was officially opened by Auckland Council in 2004.
Remaining on Leigh Road and passing on beyond the vibrant township of Matakana, take the turn-off to Sandspit and follow the signs to Tāwharanui Regional Park. There, visitors will enjoy a coastal wonderland of more than 500 hectares of bush, pasture and coastal beach to explore.
The site was purchased from the Georgetti family in 1973 and developed into a regional park for the people of Auckland to enjoy. In 2004, a 2.5kmwide predator-proof fence was erected across the peninsula to create a mainland island sanctuary for native species.
Currently, the area supports 16 species of native birds and 15 species of coastal birdlife. Significant stands of native forest also feature throughout the site. Visit the Auckland Council website for more information.
After an extensive national and international search, DairyNZ has announced the appointment of Dr David Burger as its new chief science and innovation officer.
The new role has replaced the former general manager research and science, reflecting the accelerating pace of change for dairy farmers and the emerging technology and farm systems solutions needed to support them.
“David has been with DairyNZ for over a decade and knows well how we can step up our delivery for farmers. I know he’s keen to turn strategy into action,” said chief executive Campbell Parker.
Dr Burger will cover a broad range of responsibilities, including DairyNZ’s science programme, economics and farm system modelling, research farms and NZ Animal Evaluation.
He is a water quality scientist with more than 20 years of national and international experience, and is passionate about ensuring New Zealand dairy farmers can
continue to adapt their farm systems to be as sustainable and profitable as possible, well into the future.
During his 12 years at DairyNZ, he has led strategy, investment and operational governance across diverse portfolios bringing science, policy and extension together.
“He is also an incredible advocate of the critical role science plays in the work DairyNZ does on behalf of farmers,” Campbell said.
“We’re excited about the expertise, experience and leadership David brings to this role, and we’re confident his work will help strengthen the science that underpins our sector’s sustainability and success.”
Dr Burger will take up his new role in September.
With spring just around the corner, Northland Hereford Breeders’ Association members are gearing up to meet the demand for Hereford bulls during the spring bull selling season.
Hereford cattle are one of the oldest established cattle breeds in New Zealand, and the popularity of the versatile breed has never waned.
Hereford-cross cattle have a reputation for gaining a premium at the saleyards, and the breeders aim to produce bulls that are suitable for both the beef and dairy sectors. They have a detailed knowledge of the pedigrees and genetic characteristics of their cattle, which gives their customers certainty about the history of the bulls they are buying. The breeders can also advise buyers about
the suitability of the bulls for mating to both cows and heifers.
This year, seven breeders are offering bulls during the spring sale season, through on-farm auctions and private treaty sales. The bulls offered for sale range in age from yearlings to 15 months old, 18 months old and rising two-year-olds.
Northland Hereford Breeders’ Association members are located from the Far North to Kaipara and Warkworth, so they have the needs of Northland farmers covered — see details in our advert below.
by Colin Hannah, Federated Farmers Northland president
I want to highlight the efforts of a true-blue Northlander championing the
seen and encourage readers to back this substantial effort.
I am talking about Dr Tanya Quin, who is a born and bred Northland farm girl schooled at Tauraroa Area School and raised in Maungakaramea.
Dr Tayna Quin is working hard to make the rural GP sector in the provinces strong once again, and from my dealings with Tayna in recent years, I know she will do it.
Not only is she proven in the medical field, Tayna and her husband Dwayne have a decades-long career in dairy farming in the north, until transitioning to a sheep and beef unit in more recent times.
Along the way, Tanya has spent plenty of time locuming abroad and throughout New Zealand. She is straight up, measured, calls a spade a spade and gets the job done. Importantly, she takes the time to listen and has a good dose of humility, plus high levels of IQ and EQ — a potent mix for success and leadership.
In recent years, she has not only taken ownership of the medical practice in Kawakawa, but she has also joined the University of Auckland’s School of Medicine, where she is growing the rural curriculum around the need for a stronger focus on rural health.
Tayna is a senior lecturer at the University’s Rural Health Unit and reckons
she can elevate what she classifies as ‘rural generalism’, by developing hospital doctors and GPs in rural towns around New Zealand.
I know from my own work in rural health that farmers want to see a doctor they can rely on and trust. They need and deserve a doctor who gets the complexities and challenges of farming, and understands how much farmers and their families take on, and do, in the community.
Tanya’s plan to unleash medical students in the provinces to get broad, real-life experience is gold, and I love that she is particularly driven to encourage rural youngsters into medical careers because as she says — farm kids just get farm life. They are used to mucking in and making things happen — just like Tayna has done throughout her successful career.
On another note, Tanya is kneedeep working with researching and managing the threat and implications of leptospirosis. Farmers are six times more likely to contract lepto when exposed to it, if they do not cover their wounds.
So why take the risk?
We can all learn from Tanya, and the research her colleagues from around the
country are doing to help us all.
I commend Tanya for her passion and drive because she is proof that Kiwi kids can achieve whatever they want.
To prove her point, Tayna is lining up close to 20 fourth-year medical students to work in Northland in 2026 and she reckons there is no reason wannabe GPs can’t spend their entire clinical years (four, five and six) in the region.
Next month will mark an exciting milestone for Kaipara Herefords, as the stud transitions
selling format.
After years of selling bulls via private treaty, the Hereford stud will hold its first onfarm auction on September 23.
Held at 170 Schick Road, just 25 minutes south of Dargaville, the sale will feature 80 15-month-old Hereford bulls offered through a newly-converted woolshed, complete with a purpose-built sale ring and yards.
Spanning three generations of the Biddles family, Kaipara Herefords has a proud heritage of breeding high-quality Hereford cattle for over 70 years. Today, the stud is operated by Sam and Kate Biddles, running nearly 500 hectares of coastal country on Northland’s Poutō Peninsula.
The stud’s proven breeding programme produces 15–16-month-old spring bulls, specifically for the dairy industry. Many buyers return year after year — often purchasing multiple bulls — thanks to consistent results and dependable performance.
The Kaipara breeding philosophy focusses on:
• Calving ease
• Quiet temperament
• Strong growth rates
To achieve this, sire bulls are selected for moderate to low birth weights and high 400day weights. Any females displaying subpar temperament are identified and culled. Cattle
are break-fed and receive supplementary feed during the winter months to ensure steady growth and condition.
Animal health is a cornerstone of the operation. All progeny are:
• Vaccinated twice with 7-in-1
• BVD tested and vaccinated
• Raised within a closed herd (no trading stock), with only fully-tested sire bulls introduced to the farm
• TB Status — C10
For the first time, this year’s sale bulls have also been DNA tested through the Igenity programme, offering insight into 17 key maternal, performance and carcass traits — empowering buyers with valuable data to support confident selection.
We look forward to welcoming both familiar and new faces to our inaugural onfarm sale.
by Andy Bryenton
John Deere has unleashed one of the most powerful, and biggest, tracked tractors ever to till the soil, with the debut of the 9RX, and a surprising reveal at the CES cereal crop expo in the US; this monster of the fields can come as an advanced, driverless robot.
Everything about the 9RX is defined by huge numbers, including its massive fourtracked silhouette, reminiscent of the desert-crawling harvesters of Frank Herbert’s Dune novels.
The big JD18, 18-litre diesel under the hood can deliver a maximum of 913 horsepower, but it also delivers this titanic amount of force, while achieving emissions standard compliance without any fuel fluids or additives.
Now, for the numbers. Start with hydraulic flow of up to 635 litres a minute, tracks 91 centimetres wide for floatation over soil, and 6.8 square metres of glass in the immense cab. The RX9 weighs 33 tonnes, stands an imposing 3.7 metres tall, and measures 8.8 metres in length, track-to-track.
All that power is designed to operate the biggest and most demanding of implements for massive fields and acres of crops. However, there’s finesse behind the brute force of the RX9, with more advanced computing technology on board than ever before in a tractor of this size.
Some of this is the wizardry allowing this green giant to go fully autonomous.
“Our agriculture, construction, and commercial landscaping customers all have work that must get done at certain times of the day and year, yet there is not enough available and skilled labour to do the work,” says John Deere chief technology
can help address this challenge. That’s why we’re extending our technology stack to enable more machines to operate safely and autonomously in unique
and complex environments. This will not only benefit our customers, but all of us who rely on them to provide the food, fuel, fibre, infrastructure and landscaping care that we depend on every day.”
By adding 16 cameras and John Deere’s second-gen autonomy kit, the 9RX gains a 360-degree cybernetic view of its surroundings, with advanced depth perception to enable it to move with swift surety. Deere engineers say this gives farmers the option of stepping away from the RX9’s spacious cab and taking care of other things, while it deals with vast swathes of land all on its own.
While the RX9 might be too big for most Kiwi farms, made as it is for the US plains, it’s a halo product displaying the peak of engineering and automation as a snapshot in time. Lessons learned making this beast will soon be coming to a field near you.
If you own or operate an Isuzu truck in Northland or Rodney, there’s one name you can rely on — CAL Isuzu.
Conveniently located at 20 Logyard Road, Whangārei, we are your only Northland authorised distributor for genuine Isuzu truck parts, and a trusted service facility dedicated to keeping your truck running at peak performance.
At CAL Isuzu, we know that keeping your truck on the road is critical to your business. That’s why we stock a comprehensive range of genuine Isuzu parts, ensuring you get the highest quality components designed specifically for your vehicle.
Our expert service team, equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and continuous intense Isuzu training, is committed to minimising downtime and maximising efficiency, so you can focus on the job without worrying about your truck’s reliability. Remember, parts fitted by one of our Isuzu truck technicians carries an extra warranty for more cost savings.
As part of our commitment to standing behind the quality of our work, we’ve extended our parts and labour warranty by an additional year — now providing a total of three years’ warranty, when your part is purchased and installed by any CAL Isuzu dealership.
Looking to upgrade or invest in a new truck? We offer a full range of new and used Isuzu trucks, from light-duty workhorses
to heavy-duty haulers, tailored to meet the needs of various industries. Whether you need a truck for construction, agriculture or transport, our team can help you find the perfect solution with several finance options
to make the change simple and easy. For expert Isuzu truck sales, service and parts in Northland and Rodney, visit CAL Isuzu at 20 Logyard Road. We’re here to keep your business moving.
FOR SALE
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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.
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