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He contributed until he could no longer: that’s the sort of man Jim Bolger was.
It has been said that, in terms of passion and commitment, the country came next only to family in Jim’s eyes.
Jim Bolger died, at age 90, on Sunday, October 15. He was, of course, the Member of Parliament for King Country from 1972 and still was in 1996 when our electorate became Taranaki-King Country. In his time as leader of the opposition and then, from 1990, prime minister, he presided over, and often generated, some momentous episodes in the nation’s history.
What are the other consequences that we can expect? There was also the socalled Mother of all Budgets during his tenure. Still, his most momentous and farreaching decision as prime minister was to hold a referendum on electoral reform.
I was not in parliament at the time. In fact, I was still in primary school when he was first elected to parliament. We would talk often as fellow farmers
and parliamentarians once I entered parliament in 2014, and after he retired. I valued those chats. They were always informative and frequently laced with his quiet humour. Jim and his wife, Joan, with whom he had nine children, were a formidable couple. Joan was, and is, just as deeply involved and passionate about the community as he was.
Jim served his country in various capacities almost up until the day he died. At the time of his passing, he was collaborating with former Labour prime minister Geoffrey Palmer on a longterm project aimed at shaping New Zealand’s future.
Jim Bolger leaves behind a legacy of service, leadership and quiet dedication. His legacy will still motivate generations of New Zealanders, and those who knew him will forever cherish his wisdom, warmth and dedication to the country he loved so deeply. He will be greatly missed.
by Andy Bryenton
Thirty organisations across 14 nations have joined together in an unprecedented appeal to governmental climate policymakers, demanding that the truth about methane emissions is recognised.
The core of their claim: methane is different from long-lived greenhouse gases, and science confirms this difference. That fundamental difference must be recognised in reporting metrics. Some advocates for change on this topic opine that not to do so is disingenuous and potentially economically dangerous.
Joining in the call to recognise the true role of the methane cycle and the impact of the one-size-fits-all GWP100 recording metric is Beef + Lamb New Zealand, building on its advocacy for a split-gas emissions target in New Zealand. That mission was a success, as New Zealand uses a split-gas model that recognises the difference between methane and other greenhouse gases.
‘The science is clear: emissions of longlived gases must reach net zero to prevent further warming. In contrast, emissions of short-lived gases like biogenic methane only need to decline gradually to have the same effect,’ says a joint statement signed by B+LNZ and 29 other groups from more than a dozen nations.
‘This fundamental difference needs to be recognised in climate policy, and adopting a split-gas approach is the most effective way to do so.’
“B+LNZ has taken the lead to build the international consensus on the need to follow a split-gas approach when reporting
greenhouse gases from agriculture,” says BLNZ chair Kate Acland.
“This is the culmination of more than four years of effort in building these global conversations, so we’re delighted to achieve this level of support for the joint statement.
“The importance of a united position from agricultural producing nations on climate change metrics and emissions targets was a major subject of conversation during my visit to Ireland, the UK and the US in May. Since then, B+LNZ has been working hard behind the scenes to get this across the line.
“New Zealand already has splitgas domestic targets, and B+LNZ has long advocated for this science-based approach to be replicated internationally. This would make it clear where emission reductions are expected, and, in the case of methane, in what sector.”
The international joint statement was signed by agricultural organisations from Argentina, Australia, Cambodia, Canada, Colombia, Georgia, India, Ireland, Kenya, New Zealand, South Africa, the United Kingdom, the United States and Uruguay. It calls on parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change to use a split-gas approach in their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.
WShicaela Kane’s interest in dairy farming grew while working as a receptionist at Taranaki Veterinary Services clinic in Hāwera.
hile in charge of the large animal administration, Shicaela also attended some on-farm callouts with veterinarians.
“This is what really piqued my interest in the farming field,” said Shicaela.
“I also spent my childhood growing up on the farm and following my dad around everywhere he went.”
When a farm assistant position became available on the family farm, Shicaela took up the opportunity. The 23-year-old is now in her third season working for her father, Dominic Schuler, on his Alpine Rose Ltd farm near Hāwera. A 300-cow herd milked on the 95ha property is mostly made up of Friesians, with some crossbreds.
“I haven’t looked back since. My keen interest in animal health and calf-rearing keeps me excited to come to work every day, as no day is the same.”
The farm’s coastal area location often experiences very dry summers, sometimes resulting in a feed shortage. Shicaela said this is planned for in advance with extra supplementary feed on-hand.
“Last year, we were affected by the drought quite badly, and the farm is still in a state of recovery now. As a result of this, we had to dry-off early, and buy in more feed, which was disappointing as we had started off with such a good season.”
The majority of the farm’s silage and hay comes from the family’s support block. This is complemented with maize brought in each year for the dry-off period.
“We also have a contract for PROLIQ and palm kernel that is fed on the feed pad.”
Since taking up the farm assistant position, Shicaela has studied through Primary ITO, completing the New Zealand Shicaela grew up on the family farm
Certificate in Agriculture (dairy farming) level three. She’s currently working towards level four.
“I have also attended two seminars run by Taranaki Veterinary Centre, on lameness and spring first aid.”
Shicaela appreciates the community and support available in the farming industry. She’s also chairperson for South Taranaki Young Farmers.
“Otakeho has a very tight-knit community that likes to help each other out. This is awesome since farming can be quite isolating at times.
“I also find that dairy farming is very different to other industries as everyone runs their farm differently, to get the same or similar result. The majority of farmers are happy to share what they do.
“There are events that DairyNZ runs where you get to see what is special to a certain farm, and how they run their system. This is great as you can take it back to your own farm, and
see if you could do it a different way yourself.”
Last year, Alpine Rose Ltd was Taranaki’s top-operating profit a hectare dairy unit. Shicaela and Dominic then hosted a DairyNZ event on-farm.
“It was awesome to showcase what we do on-farm, and the tireless work my dad has done over the years to make the farm what it is today.”
In March, Shicaela placed second in the 2025 Taranaki Dairy Industry awards trainee category. She also picked up a communication and industry involvement merit award.
Shicaela said as farming is always changing and no day is ever the same, this can be quite challenging.
“I have had to learn to be able to easily adapt to different situations. The most important thing is to stay calm and think quickly.
“Things don’t always go how you plan, but luckily my mum taught me to be very stubborn and persistent, so I will keep trying until I achieve that result.
Farming has also given Shicaela the ability to use what is on hand to help with different situations.
“Baling twine is one of the most versatile but valuable things in your toolbox,” she said.
Shicaela finds rearing calves and raising youngstock on the run-off rewarding as she watches them grow.
“Even treating a sick cow and having her recover is a massive reward as well.”
Finding a positive point each day, even if it’s tough, helps keep her motivated.
“There are many aspects of farming. It is how you choose to look at a situation.”
BY DENISE GUNN
Originally from Switzerland, the couple put growing food on a large scale at the top of their wish list when they immigrated to New Zealand 25 years ago. The skills and knowledge gained from their rural backgrounds have been put to good use as they’ve continued to plant a wide variety of fruit-bearing trees and plants.
A blueberry orchard was the first area planted. Now, there are almost 1,600 blueberry bushes, as well as raspberries, gooseberries and red currants.
“I was also recently gifted some honey berries and hope to get more,” said Christine.
Cherry guavas, tamarillos, and a selection of feijoa varieties also have a site.
“Last count, there were somewhere around 50 different citrus trees, a much larger collection of stone fruit; mostly peaches, but also apricots, plums, prunes, greengages, figs and loquats.
“On the pip fruit front, there are close to 200 apple trees, but most of these are grafted on dwarf rootstocks, so production is smaller.”
All the apple varieties grown on the Frey’s property are pre-1920s, and mostly from Europe.
“In the past few years, I have also sourced what I call wild fruit; fruiting trees and bushes that are not grown commercially and have not been bred up.”
These fruits are known for their health benefits for humans and animals.
“I have also been trialling the more heat-loving plants, to see how far I can push what’s still growing at 250m above
Christine grows a wide selection of food with her husband Christof on their Ōkato property
Nearly 400 fruit trees and 1,800 fruiting bushes are now growing on the Frey’s property.
“That sounds like a lot, and it sure keeps us busy, but I have to admit most of our fruit is eaten right off the trees by the local wildlife with birds being the most active culprits.”
Around one-third of the Frey’s land is in native bush. After Predator-free Taranaki’s intense work in the area, Christine looked forward to a good harvest this spring.
“We hoped to have some more fruit, and less damage to the trees caused by possums, but then spring was so abysmal there was hardly any pollination for the stonefruit. We did get a lot of apples though, and managed to make cider for the first time.”
Due to the large selection of fruit grown, the work involved in caring for their food forest is spread out over 12
Christine is a regular stallholder at the Taranaki Farmers’ Market, and was one of a small group of organic growers who founded it in 2005
months. Surplus fruit is made into jams, jellies and chutneys, which are sold at markets throughout the year. A registered commercial kitchen on their property is used for baking and preserving.
In 2005, Christine and a small group of keen organic growers founded the Taranaki Farmers’ Market. Now, she is just a regular stallholder, but appreciates the work that the market’s trustees put in each week.
“I’m of the firm belief that I’ve done my dash.”
The couple sell their fresh produce, home-baked cookies and fermented wheat-free sourdough bread at this market on Sundays, and the Ōkato Market Te Ruru on Wednesdays. Beach Road Milk Shop stocks their produce, too.
A couple of dozen ducks in the orchard supply the couple with eggs.
“They are our bug police, and mini fertiliser spreaders, too. Even though duck eggs
are normally a seasonal thing, this winter ours never even stopped laying. We’ve had between four to six eggs on a daily basis.”
Several years ago, the couple introduced a white Galloway bull to run with their Highland cattle. Their flock of East Friesian sheep has been replaced with a rare breed — the Stewart Island (Rakiura) sheep.
“Both of these are to graze the steeper parts of our rolling property, and to supply us with meat and a small additional income.”
Christine said they are still living the good life — the Kiwi dream.
“We are still full of enthusiasm and plans even though we move a bit slower, take a few more breaks, and plan our purchases more around ease of handling instead of the cheapest on the market. We love the life we’ve chosen for ourselves. It fits our personalities.”
While growing up in Sri Lanka, Taranaki contract milker Roshan Jayadheera long held an interest in agriculture.
Although he had no direct family background in farming, and his parents worked in government service, Roshan’s interest led him to study agriculture throughout school. He followed on from this by studying towards a Bachelor in Agriculture and Management, graduating from the University of Peradeniya in Sri Lanka.
Roshan’s wife Chamari also graduated from the University of Peradeniya. She holds a Bachelor in Animal Science and Fisheries.
When Roshan was younger, his goal was originally to work in an agriculturalrelated field in Sri Lanka.
“However, after graduating from university, I realised it would be difficult to reach my goals on a simple salary,” said Roshan.
With his degree in hand, Roshan decided to gain international experience in his chosen field of study.
“I also needed to do so in a practical and affordable way,” he said. “At that time, New Zealand stood out as the country that welcomed qualified and experienced agriculture graduates to work in the industry. This motivated me to move here and pursue my career in farming.”
Since moving to New Zealand in 2014, Roshan has worked with different herd sizes ranging from 300 to 1,300 cows. His first dairy position farming was as an assistant herd manager on a farm near Invercargill. Three years later, he took up a 2IC position, which he held for two years.
In 2019, Roshan and Chamari moved to a farm manager position on Ponderosa Farm near Temuka. During the 2022–23
BY DENISE GUNN
to the Kaponga farm with their two daughters Rylie, age eight, and Cindy, age four. A herd of 400 Friesian/Jersey- cross cows are milked on the 112ha property.
Roshan said the area experiences very wet winters and dry summers, with the farm receiving an average annual rainfall of approximately 1,255mm.
“This makes pasture management particularly challenging under a systemthree farming approach. However, with limited supplement feed we work hard to manage pasture effectively and maintain production. Silage is grown on-farm.”
As Roshan mostly worked in Canterbury’s drier conditions before moving to Taranaki, managing heavy rainfall is a new challenge.
“My first year as a contract milker was tough, but I learned to adapt by planning carefully around the weather conditions. This experience improved my management skills and made me more resilient.”
Studies have continued with Roshan completing AgITO level three, milk quality
level one and two, and level four livestock feeding and pasture management. The more Roshan has learnt working in New Zealand’s dairy industry, the more passionate he has become, aspiring to perform to the best of his ability.
The couple’s journey in the dairy industry has seen them establish their own company, Elegant Peak Dairies Limited. They each hold 50/50 shares. Chamari helps out on-farm with calfrearing, relief milking and documentation.
In their first two seasons as contract milkers, they achieved Te Puku rating through Fonterra’s Co-operative Difference programme. This rating recognises farms attaining milk quality excellence.
Roshan said seeing healthy and happy cows with good milk production is one of the most rewarding aspects of his work. Mating season is Roshan’s favourite time of year on-farm.
“In 2023–24 we achieved a low empty rate of nine per cent. In the 2024–25 season, there was successful mating with low empty rates and a 76% six weeks’ incalf rate with zero intervention.
“Achieving a low empty rate through this approach always makes me proud and happy.”
He finds the flexibility that comes with working in the dairy industry so far provides one of the greatest benefits — allowing him to be present for his family.
“I am able to balance both family and career.”
Earlier this year, Roshan placed third in the Share Farmer of the Year category at the 2025 Taranaki Dairy Industry awards. He also won an Emerging Talent merit award. He said placing third and receiving a merit award is one of his career highlights.
“In preparing for the final round, we gained a much deeper understanding of our financial position, and developed strong knowledge of our current situation.”
Our Emergency Departments at Taranaki Base and Hāwera hospitals are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — 365 days a year.
Our EDs are for life-threatening or limbthreatening emergencies that may include:
• active bleeding
• chest pain
• difficulty breathing
• stroke symptoms
• choking
• loss of consciousness
• clearly broken or dislocated bones
Healthify (formerly known as Health Navigator) is a fantastic website for anyone looking for free, easy-to-understand information and tips on treating common health conditions. Alternatively, call Healthline for free on 0800 611 116, where nurses, paramedics and doctors are available 24/7 for free medical advice.
Community pharmacies are another great option for health advice on common health issues and medications. Your general practitioner (GP) or Māori healthcare provider is the best option for your nonurgent, long-term health issues as they can provide ongoing care appropriate to your specific needs.
Children under 14 receive free healthcare, and there are low-cost GP clinics in New Plymouth, Stratford, Ōpunakē, Hāwera and Pātea. A Community Services Card can lower the cost of some health services and prescriptions.
For out of hours or urgent treatment when your GP isn’t available, there are a number of urgent care clinics in Taranaki. These include Medicross and Carefirst (Westown) in New Plymouth, and South Taranaki Rural Health General Practice (the Practice) in Hāwera.
To find pharmacies, GPs and urgent care clinics open near you, visit healthpoint.co.nz. This website also provides information on practices in the region currently enrolling new patients.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay says legislation to protect productive farmland by limiting farm-to-forest conversions is now in place.
The Climate Change Response (Emissions Trading Scheme — Forestry Conversion) Amendment Act came into effect on October 31. McLay said forest owners will notice these changes in the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) system from this month.
“Through this act, the government delivered on protecting food production, supporting rural communities, and ensuring foresters can continue to invest with confidence,” Mr McClay said.
The legislation restricts exotic forests from entering the ETS on Land Use Capability (LUC) class 1–6 land — New Zealand’s most productive soils — with certain exceptions, including for Māoriowned land and erosion-prone areas.
Farmers will retain flexibility to plant some land should they choose.
Transitional exemptions from the restrictions are available for those who can demonstrate both a clear interest in the land and a qualifying forestry investment made between January 1 2021 and December 4 2024.
“Farming and forestry are both important to our regional economies and communities and this Government is supporting both sectors to create jobs and grow exports,” McClay said.
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has worked to keep the sector informed, including running webinars to explain the new restrictions. Its website has been updated to include the changes and guidance documents.
Dedicated MPI staff will continue to provide specific support.
More information can be found on the MPI website — keyword search ‘forestry’.
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RAGT New Zealand, a growing force in high-performance forage and crop genetics, has announced a pivotal leadership transition, appointing James White as its new commercial director.
White, who has been instrumental in the company’s evolution, will now spearhead the New Zealand business, focussing on using genetic innovation to meet the evolving demands of Kiwi farming.
His elevation to commercial director is a strategic move, signalling RAGT’s increased commitment to delivering profitable, sustainable solutions for New Zealand farmers. With 19 years of experience in the business, White’s clear future vision is directly aligned with RAGT Group’s global strategy, which prioritises research and development to address complex agronomic challenges.
This amplified focus is crucial as the sector navigates increasing pressure from environmental regulation and the persistent need for feed security and higher on-farm productivity.
“I am delighted to have accepted the role of commercial director and am truly excited about the opportunities ahead for RAGT. The formidable strength of this business comes from our dedicated team and our exceptional genetics, which are powerfully supported by the wider RAGT Group,” said White.
“Together, we will build on this foundation for real success, continuing to deliver cutting-edge cultivars that ensure farm resilience and profitability. I look forward to further establishing RAGT as one of the leading genetics providers for New Zealand.”
RAGT New Zealand’s focus on innovative genetics and seed technologies, such as market leading perennial grasses and
revolutionary novel endophyte, is set to be a key pillar of White’s leadership. His mandate is to translate this cutting-edge global research into immediate, practical and highly-effective commercial solutions for local conditions, ensuring RAGT is known as a go-to partner for New Zealand’s progressive and productive farmers.
Commenting on the announcement, Simon Howell, Western Europe and Australasia business director for RAGT Group, stated, “James is the right person to lead RAGT New Zealand into its next phase of growth.”
This appointment follows the successful tenure of Bruce Garrett, who successfully led the business through its significant transition from Seed Force to a fully-fledged RAGT subsidiary. RAGT Group acknowledges Bruce for building a strong foundation and positioning the company as a key player in the New Zealand seed industry.
by John Arts
I regularly am contacted by people with severe osteoarthritis, usually in knees, hips and hands.
The question is whether anything other than pain relief or surgery can help. In most cases nutritional therapy can help. I have a client with severe knee osteoarthritis. He gets noticeable relief enabling him to continue his physical lifestyle that was becoming increasingly difficult.
Severe osteoarthritis is characterised by significant deterioration of cartilage, the tissue that cushions the ends of bones. This usually results in bones rubbing directly against each other. This leads to pain, swelling, stiffness and a reduction in joint mobility. People can often feel a grating sensation as the joint moves.
Severe osteoarthritis requires a wider range of supplements at higher doses. Changing to an anti-inflammatory diet will increase chances of results. Before we commence, we need to ensure compatibility of higher dose supplements with prescription medicines, especially blood thinners.
The key supplements we need are, in order of importance, chondroitin, curcumin (from turmeric), omega-3 fish oil and glucosamine. If medications, age and
circumstances allow, we start with a very intensive period, usually for 12 weeks. This involves daily doses of chondroitin 1,600mg, 100% water soluble (pepperfree) curcumin 1,200mg, EPA from fish oils 1,000mg, and glucosamine 1,600mg. This involves three different supplements.
Chondroitin sulphate can make a significant difference to joint function. The main benefits come from supporting healthy cartilage secreting cells (chondrocytes) and reducing joint inflammation.
I have seen excellent results from this approach. The benefits can be anything from, like my client, noticeable improvements in comfort and mobility through to people cancelling planned surgery. There is only a relatively small group who have no benefits. The key is to work to a personalised plan with regular reviews.
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.
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• Try Bettaflex for 3 months and see for yourself.
How can Bettaflex help?
• Chondroitin and glucosamine are building blocks of cartilage.
• Supplementation with correct levels can support healthy cartilage function and cartilage repair processes.
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John Arts comments:
by Andy Bryenton
We have all heard of nitrous oxide as a race car fuel booster, but only those with hands-on farming knowledge will have heard about this substance as a byproduct of cattle urine.
It’s both a good thing and a bad thing that the liquid output of the nation’s herds creates so-called nitrate patches across pasturelands. It’s a natural process, but those concerned with New Zealand’s carbon footprint point to the fact that nitrous oxide is a greenhouse gas, and that it makes up seven per cent of total global emissions.
At the same time, cattle each generate more nitrogen than the total amount of synthetic nitrogen fertiliser farmers pay to put on pasture. A nitrate patch made by a cow’s ablutions contains the equivalent of up to 1,000kg of nitrogen a hectare.
The problem? It’s concentrated in a small spot. A solution could slash farming costs and benefit the planet.
That’s where a small Canterbury company called Āmua comes in. The government’s AgriZeroNZ initiative has recently granted $1.2 million to this innovative firm, which has developed a lightweight wearable device for cattle that allows nitrogen to be spread evenly across pasture from the source as it were. It’s one of 16 projects, which have received part of $191 million in grants to accelerate research and development for future farming that knocks back emissions.
“This is Kiwi innovation at its best. Smart technology designed on the farm,
for the farm, turning waste into a valuable fertiliser and maintaining New Zealand’s leadership in low-emissions pasturebased farming,” says Finance Minister Nicola Willis.
“A total of $191 million has been committed over its first four years to accelerate development of emissions reduction tools for farmers that support the government’s goal of doubling export value in 10 years.
“Other AgriZeroNZ investments include methane vaccines, inhibitors, probiotics and pastures. The first commercial tools are expected to become available next year, and up to 11 from wider government investment by 2030.”
The full list of innovations includes a methane inhibitor sourced from daffodil plants, molecular science and a possible vaccine aimed at methane reduction, UV-light-based low-emissions ryegrass, probiotic feeds, cattle reproductive technologies and more.
“Research and development drive productivity and high-value jobs. Our goal is a system that empowers worldclass scientists, universities and research organisations to turn ideas into market-ready solutions,” Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti said.
Four years ago off the back of his dairy farm, Barry Bishop started the Maketawa John Deere Museum. Barry’s Museum is full of vintage classic John Deere Machinery. He now has a collection of over 20 green and yellow beauties. The oldest tractor Barry currently owns is a 1936 John Deere BN, he imported it from the states. Take a step back into the world of John Deere.
sure when your septic tank was last
a sign to get it booked before
a major headache.
by Amy Fifita
Christmas time is delightful and stressful, a time for giving and expensive, and all of the in between, so having a failsafe plan is a must, especially if the relatives turn up without warning.
Christmas as a child is fun, presents, desserts, leftovers and family, but this writer certainly remembers the mischief she could get into in my grandfather’s home. It was back in the days when the wooden spoon was legal, or still acceptable, being sent to the room for having a mildly undesirable attitude.
So, how should unsuspecting hosts of the family Christmas plan for a surprise visit? The expectant children, the inappropriate relative, a new partner, and the sleepy old dears might knock on your door this holiday season, so don’t get caught unawares.
Spare chocolates for presents (or snacks), frozen chooks, gravy packets and other simple, but Christmas-acceptable items, are easy enough to stock up on. With the food order done, on to the more pertinent matters, like imprisoning the energetic children who think breakable ornaments are action figures to throw at their siblings.
Ensuring Christmas is still magical for the little ones and still keeping your sanity is the goal. Time to dust off the old toy basket, have a box handy to hide irreplaceable valuables, and perhaps wonder if Halter would work on children.
Joking aside, some clear boundaries, a stern look and a no-go area run-down
might help once they grace your
with a surprise visit. If those lovely, but full-of-beans, children are farm-friendly, a good run around the paddock would help burn off some excess energy, too.
A sure way to avoid awkward guests is a beach Christmas, especially if you like your house clean, tidy and in order. Pack up the car with food, presents, sun block and togs, and it doesn’t matter if extras show up.
The venue is free, nothing will be broken, the parents can manage their own children by the water, and you can relax, eat and swim while enjoying the family gathering. Whatever your method, fun is to be had, memories will be made, and madness will be averted.
by Andy Bryenton
Just when you think there’s a long time to go until it’s time to stuff the turkey and light the tree, there he is, appearing at the edge of sight like some kind of Yuletide ninja. This makes sense when you learn that the real, historical Saint Nick was a fighting, furious pirateduelling action man in his younger days. He likely learned a thing or two about stealth when sneaking up on nautical crooks.
However, his change of career from swashbuckling cleric to kindly old toymaker has made him the harbinger of a mild coronary, each year at about this time, for millions.
The US holds the title for the least appropriate time to dust off the carols and hang up the stockings in stores. Costco, biggest of the big-box retailers in the States, has been witnessed as getting festive in September.
As a general rule, Halloween decor goes away before Santa comes out in most US locations. Cultural misunderstandings and holiday mixups have seen at least one ambitious Chinese manufacturer mistakenly create jolly, red-and-white hatted toy zombies, mummies and vampires. They sold out in record time to hipsters who ‘appreciated them ironically’, so expect more this year.
There are those of course who consider it to only truly be the festive season when they first hear Snoopy’s Christmas played. This is a perfect bellwether for Kiwi shoppers, as this is one of the few nations where the song about the cartoon beagle and the Red Baron is utterly canonical. However, it can lead to confusion if, by sheer bad luck, you make it through to December 24 without hearing the telltale song of marching drums and ‘merry Christmas my friend’ in a terrible fakeGerman accent.
The first signs of Santa in stores acts sort of like the first blooming buds after wintertime did, for ancient druids. It’s a signal that frantic activity is going to be needed to prepare for the change of seasons. While those olden-day wizards had to head to the forest to cut mistletoe with a sickle, we can grab a plastic facsimile from almost any retailer. However, there’s more to do before Christmas and its attendant feasts, visitations, gift-giving and holidays than just deck the halls.
Make a plan — indeed, make a list and check it twice — to get ahead of the season now. Your wallet, kids, relatives and your future self will all thank you for recognising the signs of an imminent Yuletide, and taking steps to run it smoothly.
Delving into icons, memories and history, Te Radar and Ruth narrate a fun and informative look at what it is like to live rurally in their book, Kiwi Country: Rural New Zealand in 100 objects.
Meatsafes, herringbone milk sheds, and maybe former prime minister Robert Muldoon’s taxidermied lamb, all items that come to mind when thinking about iconic New Zealand farming. With memories and icons of rural New Zealand, Te Radar and Ruth Spencer have collated 100 items prominent in country living from homesteads to the gravel road.
Andrew Lumsden, also known as Te Radar, himself an icon, comes from a rural background. From pig shed treasure hunting to television personality, and being a fun-loving MC at FMG’s Young Farmer of the Year contest, Te Radar has always had a farming background.
Despite leaving the milking shed when he was 20 years old, Te Radar went on to study law at the University of Otago before pursuing theatre studies, where he earned the moniker Radar. Now in his 50s, he is married to co-author Ruth Spencer.
Growing up in Christchurch, Ruth is a freelance writer, and has a background in performing arts and music. Although raised in an urban hub, she spent time at a sheep station in Marlborough. It is there, where she drew a lot of memories and inspiration for the new book.
Exploring origins and farm life, Kiwi Country: Rural New Zealand in 100 objects, brings items to life with their stories, from the classic Red Band gumboot to no-longerused trinkets perhaps found in the pig shed.
‘Whenever my father was partway through a project, he’d often stop, stand up, look at the piece of machinery he was repairing or building, and simply say, “Pig shed.”
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BY AMY FIFITA
pumps, lengths of pipe, taps, boxes of bolts, axles and shovels.’
Both with some form of rural background, the authors drew on memories to collate a book about the things of rural New Zealand
With illustrations penned by Joseph Carrington, such as a longdrop outside toilet or an old farmhouse, readers can appreciate the nostalgia from a farmyard childhood. The book could have its readership reminiscing about their own childhood, curious about what items they’ve held dear to their hearts.
While modern adults often reach for their phones, the book highlights technology, once part of the furniture, in almost every cowshed. Rural New Zealand hasn’t forgotten the transistor radio. Back in 1946, Kaitāia dairy farmer Mr Brent
took out an extension cord, and connected it to his radio, an action that became embedded in rural history and still is today.
‘It wouldn’t be the cowshed without something playing in the background … The advent of transistor technology made radios portable and accessible but farmers were installing heavy, cabinetsized valve radios into their cowsheds as soon as they were available.’
There are even stories from modern times. When nature becomes wild and affects the land, farmers soldier on, as with the 2019 floods in the South Island —
Illustrations: Joseph Carrington Kiwi Country: Rural New Zealand in 100 objects is in stores now waiting for keen readers wanting to learn and laugh
how were farmers meant to get their bull semen straws during breeding season?
‘What you need is a Cessna full of chilly bins — and that’s exactly what farmers in the South Island got in 2019, after severe flooding put the breeding season at risk … You might not be able to get a pizza delivered in the country but you can always rely on the Semen Express.’
The background of objects’ stories, snippets of history and retelling of childhood memories shows even though
the book is about things, it’s about what is behind them that counts. It is about remembering the good times, Kiwi ingenuity and valuing the past.
Kiwi Country: Rural New Zealand in 100 objects can give readers a laugh, a history lesson, fond memories and much more. A book that celebrates our farmers in fun, amusing and informative ways, there are items to strike anyone’s fancy. Recently launched, the book is on the shelves for eager readers wanting a fun read.
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by The Rural Laureate
Summer’s coming along with the holidays, so we thought we’d share this classic, and a reminder to take care of your trusty old tanks before the weather turns blazing hot.
I am the unsung hero of the Kiwi countryside;
In concrete, plastic, and in iron, you’ll find me nationwide
Sworn at when I’m empty, but forgotten when I’m brimming
Without my help there’d be no homebrew, bubble baths or swimming.
If I’m kept from cracking up, or rust, I’m good and watertight
I’ll hold more litres than the local pub on Friday night
And while you humans quench your thirst with milkshakes from a straw
I’m prone to gulp down 50,000 litres from the bore.
They say I have a belly; well — I’m usually quite round
The farmer slaps my side to hear my level from the sound
Or looks up, where a floating orange ball provides the proof
That, through the winter’s storms I’ve drunk the rain right off the roof.
Now, on that little note, I have some grumbles and some mutters
About the leaves and bird poop, which come swirling down the gutters
Not to mention mice, and things less nice, you wouldn’t want to drink
It’s up to ME to keep that kind of stink out of your sink!
To help me out, I’ve usually got a filter keeping guard,
So go on, switch it out, you’ll find it’s really not too hard.
And please, guys, keep my lid on - it’s really quite a panic
When a possum gets inside and goes the way of the Titanic.
Sometimes there’ll come a season when I give all that I’ve got
It’s usually a summer — one that’s extra-blazing hot
The level gets quite low, and that’s the perfect time for cleaning
A healthy scrub inside and out; you fellers get my meaning.
Then it’s time to call my trusty friend, the local water tanker
The driver never hears me, but I gurgle as I thank her
And I keep that water cool despite the sunshine on my top
When you could fry an egg up there, or get your corn to pop.
When visitors and rellies call, there’s limits to my powers
I wasn’t made to give the whole clan never-ending showers
And if your auntie needs to soak for hours to feel pretty
Inform her gently she can do that — back home in the city.
See, aside from all of this, a water tank has got it made
My life is cool and comfortable, cats lounging in my shade
I can gossip with the garage, ask the shed ‘bout each machine.
And I know to never, EVER ask the longdrop what it’s seen!
by Andy Bryenton
There are few presents found under the Christmas tree, which bring out more joy than a new bike; the only way to top this classic is with a new motorbike.
Getting your youngsters into motocross and off-road riding early, means that they have a whole lifetime of trail riding and sporting fun to look forward to. It’s a way to let the kids enjoy the outdoors in a way that has nothing to do with screens and virtual reality, and for many parents, it’s an introduction to a favourite pastime the family can enjoy together.
Getting a grounding in the basics of how to ride safely, and with skill, is a good way to develop lifelong habits on two wheels, and launch a riding career that might lead anywhere. It could pave the way for podium finishes on the track, but it could equally become a core skill for a future job working on the land. It could become the catalyst for confidence that launches a road bike riding passion, with the mobility, fuel economy, commuting ease and adventurous touring it brings. Everyone starts somewhere, and future champions start with bikes like the classic PW50, still the little learner’s best friend after all these years.
Safety is, of course, paramount, and the PW50 delivers some smart features for mums and dads keen to see their children thrive and develop their riding abilities. With a super-low seat height, light weight that’s easy to balance, and automatic two-stroke 50cc engine, this is the bike that started thousands of riding journeys. There’s no chain to tangle with,
When it’s time to move up to a bigger bike, such as the Yamaha TT-R50 or its 110cc cousin, then there’s good news
about the PW50 and its legendary reliability. Your kids might outgrow little boots and gloves, but there will always be someone else keen to buy a pre-loved peewee-sized learner bike for their upand-coming track star in training. If you’re looking at putting a little motorcycle under the tree for Christmas, remember that safety is about the complete package. You might want to get those gloves, boots, clothes and a goodquality helmet sorted, so Santa knows which ones to deliver. After all, it’s pretty certain that any youngster unwrapping their first motorbike is going to want to take it for a spin as soon as possible.
for dog and pig food, also available as grain cookers for horses
by Andy Bryenton
Motorcycles built for the mud and harsh terrain are a farming tool without parallel, able to go where even their four-wheeled stablemates might fear to tread.
The history of how the ubiquitous Kiwi farm bike came to exist at all goes right back to the earliest days of motorcycling, and takes in almost every other purpose for a two-wheeler except agriculture along the way.
The tale begins with a young German engineer called Siegfried Bettmann, who moved to England in 1885, just as his fellow countryman Mr Benz was inventing internal combustion. Siegfried had no idea what was brewing back in Germany, but he did see a market for well-built bicycles as the sport took off in late-Victorian times. He founded the Triumph Cycle Company, and those who know motorbikes know how that played out. By the end of the first world war, in which Siegfried staunchly supported his adopted Britain, Triumph was the biggest bike maker in the nation.
It was during the war years that Mr Bettmann developed a bike for the muddy and dangerous battlefields of Europe. Light, nimble and with better suspension and a toughened frame, his first off-road bikes were primitive, but a step in the right direction.
Decades later, the second world war spurred off-road bike design and set the stage for post-war sporting development.
Royal Enfield’s ‘flying flea’, the WD/RE, was designed to be parachuted to scout troops and commandos in the field, and it
looked like a modern off-road motorcycle, unlike the tiny welbike, which preceded it. The little knobbly-tyred, 125cc bikes could go where big WLA Harleys, another allied wartime bike, could not, and after the conflict ended riders used them to blast along English country lanes and tracks too small or muddy for big machines. Enfield kept building the flea for civilians until 1953.
It was a Kiwi, Cyril John Callender, who created the first farm bike, the Mountain Goat. Callender’s goat was made for farmers from day one, and took inspiration from those war-fighting bikes of the past; it was light, had knobbly tyres and was geared for torque. Sir Edmund Hillary famously rode one in Nepal in the 1960s, gaining the attention of Suzuki in Japan, and another big name in the Far East, too.
Enter Soichiro Honda, who was looking for new innovations to boost his own growing motorcycle company. His smaller bikes were already being used on unpaved roads and in the countryside, but the introduction of the Elsinore in 1973 changed the game. Honda redefined offroad bikes with this two-stroke machine, setting the frame for both motocross racers and farming bikes for years to come.
New national New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards (NZDIA) sponsor, Power Farming, has added a tractor to the prize pool.
NZDIA general manager Robin Congdon said Power Farming is a leading farm machinery specialist, and an iconic company well known by New Zealand dairy farmers.
“It is a great fit to bring Power Farming into the NZDIA national sponsor family. The awards programme and its success is reliant on sponsorship partnerships, so it’s great to secure another high-profile national sponsor.”
Robin said Power Farming is a wellknown brand across New Zealand that award entrants and alumni know and respect.
“We are thrilled to sign them as a national sponsor, which is a significant commitment.”
The National Share Farmer of the Year runner-up will win the use of the Kioti HX 130–140hp tractor for an entire year.
“At Power Farming, we are passionate about supporting the people who keep New Zealand growing,” said Power Farming chief executive Tom Ruddenklau.
“The National Dairy Awards shine a light on the next generation of farming excellence, and we are honoured to play
a part in celebrating their success stories and helping them build a stronger future for farming.”
NZDIA Trust chair Paulette Johns said Power Farming is a respected New Zealand brand the awards programme is proud to welcome as a national sponsor.
“Power Farming has a strong history of working alongside New Zealand dairy farmers. We are excited they have added their industry knowledge and passion to our awards programme.”
She said the addition of a new national sponsor is positive news for the New Zealand dairy sector overall.
“It strengthens the awards programme, which is working to encourage and develop our next generation of farmers.
“The commitment and support received from national sponsors allows NZDIA to continue their work to encourage and showcase best practice in dairy businesses, and to light up the pathways available to people working in the sector.”
Entries for the 2026 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards close on Friday, December 5. For further information, visit dairyindustryawards.co.nz.
