We are not alone
Farming is at the heart of New Zealand’s culture and economy. While the lifestyle brings many rewards for farmers, it also comes with unique challenges that can take a toll on mental health.
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For Kiwi farmers, the pressures of fluctuating markets, unpredictable weather and the isolation of rural life can quickly become overwhelming.
It’s important to recognise that mental health, just like physical health, needs attention and care. Sometimes, stress shows up as difficulty sleeping, feeling easily irritated or losing interest in activities you used to enjoy. If these feelings persist, it’s OK — and even necessary — to reach out for help.
There are also other support networks, such as Rural Support Trusts, offering confidential help, connecting farmers to resources and friendly faces who understand the challenges.
Talking to friends, whānau or a trusted adviser can also provide relief and fresh perspective. Looking out for one another is vital. If you notice a mate isn’t themselves, check in and let them know you care. A supportive community can make all the difference in tough times.
Help there is. I have the privilege of being the national patron of Craig ‘Wiggie’ Wiggins’ innovative and incredibly successful Lean on a Gate programme, which seeks to safeguard the ability and the opportunity of rural communities to get together to support each other.
Prioritising mental health is not a sign of weakness; it’s an essential part of keeping Kiwi farms and families thriving. By fostering open conversations, seeking support when needed, and caring for each other, New Zealand’s farmers can continue to weather life’s storms, both on and off the land.
Wiggie does an incredible job. Recently, I was pleased to see that he has even more resources behind him with the announced collaboration with MATES in Construction, which has extensive experience in looking after construction workers in New Zealand.
If you would like to learn more about the Lean on a Gate and other support services available to farmers and their families, feel free to drop me a line to Barbara.Kuriger@parliament.govt.nz. I will happily get back to you with the information you need.
Barbara Kuriger, MP for Taranaki-King Country
by Barbara Kuriger, MP for Taranaki-King Country
by Andy Bryenton
Doubling down on success
The horticultural sector contributes more than $7 billion to the export economy every year, and now plans are afoot to increase the amount of money that flows back to the farmers producing our fruit and vegetable crops.
The horticulture sector and the government have teamed up to create a roadmap forward to 2035, based on the Aotearoa Horticulture Action Plan (AHAP). Not content with smaller percentages, this collaboration between Horticulture New Zealand and Wellington aims to double farm gate returns to primary producers in this sub-sector during the next decade.
“The Implementation Roadmap launched today will help drive the ongoing success of Kiwi growers,” says Associate Minister of Agriculture Nicola Grigg.
“It includes practical actions that build on work to boost growth and resilience, focussing on three key areas: building foundations, driving farmgate value and enabling a futurefit sector.
“Key to the success of the roadmap will be collective input and support from industry, government, Māori and research providers. This support signals a joint commitment to implement the AHAP, and the roadmap will drive its successful delivery.”
The fact that the roadmap is based on the foundation of the AHAP points towards that it’s not just speculative blue-sky thinking, but a pathway that can deliver on its aspirations. Science,
knowledge, training up excellent people in the sector’s workforce and leadership, and maximising value are all planks emphasised in the plan.
Andrew Gibbs serves as independent chair of the AHAP group, and he’s positive about how points of that plan can flow through into policy and hence results.
“The planned actions include a strong focus on enduring policies and approaches that will help future-proof our horticulture sector,” Mr Gibbs said.
“This includes areas such as workforce, labour and employment settings, growing exports, facilitating access to germplasm, improving crop protection tools and practices for growers, and celebrating Māori success in the horticulture sector.”
He notes that a stocktake in 2024 identified more than 530 discrete initiatives that align with AHAP actions, many of which are already underway or have now been completed. This stocktake was very much taken into consideration when drawing up the new roadmap, and deciding on its ambitious target of doubling farm gate returns.
“The success of the AHAP and achieving the goal of doubling farmgate value by 2035 will require close collaboration,” said Gibbs.
“It also serves as a challenge to all the quad partners of industry, government, Māori and research providers to take action. Your contribution and support will help us achieve sustainable growth, and drive grower success across New Zealand.”
Associate Minister of Agriculture Nicola Grigg has outlined ambitious plans to boost the finances of fruit and vegetable growers across New Zealand
Initially, the trio planned to sharemilk individually on their family’s three properties at Ōpunake. The farms cover a total of 472ha, milking 1,300 Jerseycross cows.
“Our parents approached us with the idea of keeping the total business together and going 50/50 across the three farms. This is where we formed the idea, Green Grass Farming, our farming company,” said Kate.
The farm originally belonged to Scott, Ryan and Kate’s grandparents before their parents purchased it in the 1980s. All three siblings were encouraged to further their studies or apprenticeship plans on finishing high school.
“We all found our way back to the farm, and the lifestyle it offered us and our families,” said Kate.
SIBLINGS WORK TOWARDS COMMON GOALS
BY DENISE GUNN
Third-generation dairy farmers and siblings Ryan, Scott and Kate Anderson grew up on the family’s Rahotu farm, and now run their own farming company.
Ryan, a qualified builder, started his apprenticeship at school and built for seven years before returning to the farm. He is now in his seventh season dairy farming and the third season 50/50 sharemilking.
After graduating from Massey University with a Bachelor of AgCommerce majoring in farm management, Scott returned to the farm. He is now in his seventh season on-farm and 50/50 sharemilking for a third season.
Kate started out as a farm assistant and 2IC for three seasons, then moved to contract milking for two seasons, and spent one season as a variable order sharemilker. Now in her third year 50/50 sharemilking, Kate has completed all PrimaryITO dairy industry courses.
She holds a Bachelor of Applied Management, majoring in human resources, as well as a Diploma in Agriculture.
“What we all enjoy most about working in the dairy industry is being outdoors, working with our Jersey girls, and every day is different,” said Kate.
“There’s always a variety of tasks to be done. We are also able to work the jobs around our families and home life, ensuring we are generally home for breakfast, lunch and dinner.”
Ryan and Scott, supported by Kate, won the 2025 Taranaki Dairy Sharefarmers of the Year title. They agree that entering the awards gave them an opportunity to step back and look into their business, as well as to see how far they’ve come in three years.
The farms’ locations receive a predominantly southerly or westerly weather system.
“We have been fortunate to have had mild winters the last few seasons. Spring
can get wet but ensuring we
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Earlier this year, Scott and Ryan (supported by Kate) won the 2025 Taranaki Dairy Sharefarmers of the Year award
have set the farm up well over winter, we are able to cope with this.”
The average annual rainfall generally ranges from two metres on farm three, two and a half metres on farm one, and three metres on farm two.
Kate said the cold southerly winds in late spring can cause issues with bloat.
“This is particularly common on our farm. We just need to be extra vigilant checking cows and ensuring they are always fully fed, especially through those cold wind spells.”
In addition to the 1,300 cows spread across the three farms, the Anderson’s also have 242 in-calf heifers and 260 calves.
Farms one and three are the original herds.
“Farm two herd was purchased about seven years ago. It is more Kiwi-
cross but we have been doing Jersey AB for the last five years to increase the Jersey percentage.”
Ryan, Scott and Kate all enjoy springtime.
“It’s busy and hectic on-farm and complete chaos at home, but the calves are a breath of fresh air and the kids enjoy helping out, too.”
Scott said the doubling of interest rates within their first year of business was challenging.
“We had to work as efficiently as possible and reduce costs anywhere we could, while still maintaining excellent dairy practices.”
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The family’s farm in the Ōpunake area was originally owned by Scott, Kate and Ryan’s grandparents before their parents purchased it in the 1980s
“This season would be the drought,” said Kate. “We have never experienced a dry spell like this and learning to manage the farm, ensure the cows were well fed and hope production didn’t suffer too much.”
Support systems, farm owners and industry experts worked with them to help make the best decisions on-farm.
“Knowing we can only control what we can control, and it was going to rain, eventually got us through those tougher months,” said Kate.
The trio have future farming goals of expanding their 50/50 sharemilking business and to achieve land ownership.
There are 1,300 Jersey-cross cows milked across three Anderson family properties
LANDFORCE A FORCE OF NATURE
From left: Siblings Scott, Kate and Ryan Anderson formed their own farming company, Green Grass Farming
GENETIC FOCUS ON WILTSHIRE
BY DENISE GUNN
The couple tried several different breeds on their small Tarurutangi farm before settling on Wiltshires.
Biddy said after experiencing foot issues and shearing challenges with other breeds, it became clear that small lifestyle farms need an easy-care option.
“The Wiltshire sheep appealed as they originate from England and a climate similar to ours. They also had a better reputation for less troublesome feet than other self-shedding breeds.”
Biddy also found ease of lambing, good growth rates, maternal instinct and good feet, if bred well, in the breed’s favour.
“Also being able to tap into the many years of breeding and data from long-time breeders,” she said.
After purchasing six two-tooths in 2010, Malcolm and Biddy had the use of a stud ram, and purchased a ram lamb from another farm to follow-up. Their new additions joined the existing sheep on the property.
“We were also growing-on yearling cattle at the time. We now run all sheep, with the occasional beefy for meat.
“Wiltshires have a place for lifestyle blocks, and especially now for farmers who do not want to focus on wool
production. For farmers, this decreases costs and handling throughout the year. No shearing or crutching, no need to dock tails, and minimal handling with a good percentage of fat lambs going straight from weaning to the meatworks.
“With top genetics available that have focussed on facial eczema resistance, parasite resistance, foot-scoring, growth and breeding values, it is always fascinating to keep adjusting the ewe flock and producing the next drop of lambs.”
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This year, Sutherland Wiltshires has been involved in a Beef + Lamb New Zealand facial eczema trial
Wiltshire sheep have become Biddy Sutherland’s on-farm passion since she and her husband Malcolm first started their flock in 2010.
Biddy said Wiltshires are intelligent sheep and make wonderful pets, too.
Growing up on a mixed farm near Kaikoura, and then on an extensive sheep and beef farm at Kekerengu in Marlborough, Biddy is well used to farming.
“My dad had a passion for sheep and farming. We all enjoyed a great lifestyle mustering with horses, swimming the Clarence River to retrieve wayward cattle, all the yard handling work, and through to loading the wool bales onto the rail trucks to go off to Christchurch.”
Biddy also lived on a mixed farm in Scotland for 11 years.
“That included three different breeds of sheep that were intensively farmed and shepherded,” she said.
Malcolm grew up in rural Taranaki, working on sheep, beef and dairy properties from
an early age. His engineering background comes in handy, too, as he works out solutions to the property’s infrastructure.
Although the couple found their sheep struggled with the wet Taranaki grass, resulting in foot scald soon after purchase, removing those sheep from the flock reduced the problem.
“Through focussing on buying rams from Arvidson Wiltshires with foot scores of 9/10 or 10/10, that stand correctly on their feet with straight toes that spread a little between the cleats, there is very little problem now.”
The Sutherlands aim to breed good allround, sound, healthy sheep with facial eczema and worm resistance. They have some ram and ewe lambs available at weaning, many pre-booked.
“As we have focussed on top genetics for many years, this makes accessing
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these genetics more economic than waiting to buy rams at 18 months old. Most ram lambs are now going to commercial farmers as more farms are converting to Wiltshire sheep,” said Biddy.
“Having people return year after year to get their next ram or rams is a highlight. On a personal level, they give me a good project to focus on and are a pleasure to hang out with.”
Malcolm and Biddy’s flock has been part of the Beef + Lamb New Zealand facial eczema study this year. This involves sending samples of sheep faeces away for testing every fortnight for six months.
Blood samples, more faecal and pasture samples were also provided in May and June.
“Already new information is coming through from the research, identifying the specific fungal spores that cause this distressing disease that attacks the liver and decreases production on the large scale on farms. When it is clinical, the sheep rarely recover and destruction is necessary.
“We enjoy being part of this study and doing our bit towards giving the scientists the knowledge required to tackle this problem.”
Sutherland Wiltshires aims to breed good all-round, sound, healthy sheep
Malcolm and Biddy Sutherland began breeding Wiltshire sheep 15 years ago
BY DENISE GUNN
TSCHOOL FARM ADDS PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE
he school owns 20ha adjacent to the school that is leased to the Dairy Trust for demonstration purposes. Following discussions with the Dairy Trust, parents and the school in 2023, a decision was made to run a small flock of sheep on three hectares of the land at the start of this year. By June 2026, the school will take on full management of the land with the lease agreement winding up.
Agriculture has always been offered as a subject at Stratford High School. However some aspects, particularly hands-on experience, were restricted.
School principal Cameron Stone said students can now put their theory learning into practice on-farm.
The development of Stratford High School’s farm has opened more opportunities for students to put agricultural theory into practice.
“We have 120 students out of 650 doing agriculture, and the interest has only increased since we have had the farm up and running.”
Agricultural classes cater to year 10 to year 13 students. Thirty in-lamb mixed-age Romney ewes arrived on the farm earlier this year, along with a Wiltshire ram. Lambing is in late August or early September.
With use of the farm now on the school’s doorstep, students are taking part in the practical training aspects of farm management, including pre-lamb crutching. They will also learn how to shear the ewes before summer.
“Currently, the students are learning about pasture and stock management, soil testing and fencing.”
Since taking on the three hectares, covered yards and a raised shearing board in the shed have been built on the farm. The areas around water troughs have been repaired and filled,
the water supply reconnected, and fencing within the existing paddocks have been either upgraded or constructed. Pasture is a mix of ryegrass and clover.
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Student Aiden Roberts looks over the flock of Romney ewes that arrived on the farm earlier this year
In May last year, Cameron and the school’s agriculture teacher Fiona Putt visited school farms at Feilding High School and Wairarapa College to look at their farming systems. Fiona is an experienced drystock farmer.
Under the guidance of Fiona and parents supporting the project, students will manage the farm, taking care of all animal husbandry requirements, along with fencing, pasture management and soil testing. Students will also be involved in the sale of lambs.
When the school has full use of the 20ha next year, the additional land usage will allow an increase in stock
numbers. Consideration will be given to diversification by introducing beef cattle to run alongside the flock of sheep.
The expansion will also allow production of hay and silage to be looked at, with selling standing grass or hay as options.
As the on-farm agriculture programme grows, a part-time farm manager may be required down the track, depending on the workload for the agriculture teacher and students. By the five-year mark, the farm should be fully established.
Cameron said there are plans to develop a Secondary Tertiary Pathway for students, which will be similar to the school’s Build a House programme.
“This will provide students, including those not enrolled in agricultural classes, with opportunities to gain practical farm experience. Participants will spend one or two days a week on the farm, while working towards NCEA level one or level two qualifications.”
The farm also provides students with learning opportunities when livestock require veterinary services.
“From time-to-time, we have students considering a career in veterinary services. It would be exciting to be able to offer these students a one-day
workplace experience to explore this career pathway.”
Cameron said the support from parents, local farmers and the community has been amazing.
“Beyond providing valuable educational opportunities, we aim to develop a farm that generates income to support further improvements and facility expansions as needed.”
Stratford High School principal Cameron Stone demonstrates crutching a sheep to pupil Brynn van Rheede van Oudtshoorn
Student Bynn van Rheede van Oudtshoorn drags a sheep out for crutching
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Emergency department for emergencies only
Health New Zealand — Te Whatu Ora reminds Taranaki residents there’s a wide range of options when they have questions or worries about their health.
The emergency departments at Taranaki Base and Hāwera hospitals are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. They are there to respond to lifethreatening or limb-threatening emergencies that may include active bleeding, chest pain, difficulty breathing, stroke symptoms, choking, loss of consciousness, and clearly broken or dislocated bones.
For this reason, Health New Zealand encourages those with non-urgent medical questions to contact health services in other ways. 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, you can 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,
There are many different ways to access timely medical advice, online and in person
Plymouth, Stratford, Ōpunake, 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
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by Andy Bryenton
New rules for man’s best friend
A collaboration with farming organisations and the SPCA has led the government to formulate new rules for dog owners, specifically around the way dogs are contained and restrained.
New rules prohibiting long-term tethering or chaining up of dogs come into effect on September 25, with an emphasis on the harm this practice can cause. While being tied up for long periods of time can mean cruel imprisonment and a lack of exercise for town dogs on residential sections, the law specifically has variance to accommodate the needs of farmers who use dogs to herd livestock, and have different containment and living conditions for their working animals than pet owners do.
“We’ve worked closely with SPCA, farming organisations and other stakeholders to ensure the new rules are both effective and workable, and I acknowledge their support,” says Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard.
Under the new regulations, a person must not tether a dog by a rope, line or chain attached to a fixed point for extended periods where they suffer harm. That doesn’t mean for a short time when it’s necessary, but targets those who tie up their dogs for days at a time. Certain categories of vulnerable dogs, including puppies and pregnant dogs, cannot be tethered at all except in a few exceptional cases, for example, when visitors such as a tradesperson or other animals are on the owner’s property temporarily.
Exercise and motion are major considerations, and farm dogs that get out and work alongside their owners are known to get ample opportunity for both. By working with rural advocacy groups, the government has recognised the major differences between town and country, pets and working animals in their new regulations. So long as farm dogs are
regularly off-tether and doing their jobs, they are exempt from sections of the tethering restrictions.
“Prolonged confinement and tethering of dogs is one of the most common areas investigated by SPCA. They tell me they receive daily calls about it, and it accounts for about 10 per cent of dog-related welfare complaints. That’s
why we’re putting a stop to it,” says Mr Hoggard.
“The new rules target dog owners who do not let their dogs off tether to receive sufficient exercise to maintain their health and wellbeing. Responsible dog owners, who love and care for their animals and regularly take them out for walks, won’t be affected by the new rules.”
Working dogs have been recognised as having very different lives and roles to cityside pets in new dog regulations issued by the government
by Paul Campbell
Dog trials’ local genesis
Working farm dogs are an integral part of modern farm and stock management, and that saw Tarankai farmers play a leading early role, showcasing their skill well over a century ago.
From the early settlers from Polynesia to the early arrivals from Europe, canine companions have contributed to human life in myriad ways, beginning as servants and graduating to household pets and companions.
It was in 1908, in rural Tarata, that a group of local farmers sat over a few beers to form the Tarata Sheep Dog Trial Club with competition prizes of £3, 30 shillings and 10 shillings for first, second and third placings, respectively. At a time when cash in hand was paramount, the prizes demonstrated a generous offering to attract supporting farmers.
The incentives succeeded and the club’s success was demonstrated a century later with celebration trials that saw, as a sign of the modern times, prizes increase. Farm finance company FMG offered a new Holden Commodore ute for any competitor who managed to win all four open classes. Farm quad bikes were offered for lesser successes.
Today the sport of dog trials has expanded from farms to city events and all breed contests, but the huntaway, the eye dog and heading dogs remain an integral part of the rural scene and a driver, too, in the base of the country’s agricultural wealth.
Border collies arrived with immigrant shepherds and proved quick and agile while performing a multitude of farm tasks.
As in that early trial competition in Tarata, a typical dog trial today sees a variation of ‘long head and short head’. In the long, three sheep are brought down a hill to a circular area and yarded in an enclosure. The short head and yard, sees three sheep driven past obstacles to a pen.
Elsewhere on the farm the huntaway will be mustering sheep with his ‘voice’
a signalling bark compared to the heading and eye dogs’ silence.
While there is well over a century of farm experience in breeding the right dog, a team of researchers at Massey University is engaged in a study to try and improve the genetic makeup of tomorrow’s canine specialists. The project has some government funding
via the Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund.
Lead researcher Professor Matt Littlejohn said they were comparing genetic variants that cause diseases, as well as physical traits, in overseas dog populations with those of New Zealand dogs. Overall the project aims to ensure the continuing service from one of the most valuable assets on any farm.
Flashback to working dogs working the flock
by Andy Bryenton
FROM THE GROUND UP
Building’s new limits of liability
The coalition government is calling it the biggest change to building regulations in decades, and touting it as a way of speeding up construction while slashing prices, but will new liability rules prove a silver bullet?
At the core of changes tabled by Chris Penk in mid-August is the question of who is liable if a building fails to perform. Right now, it’s the contention that councils often have to foot the bill if builders make big mistakes and then fold their businesses, because councils are liable due to signing off building consent, and they can’t shut up shop and move to a different town.
“Right now, councils are hesitant to sign off on building consents and inspections because they could be held liable for all defects, leaving ratepayers to foot the bill,” says Mr Penk.
“This often happens when one of the parties responsible cannot pay for repairs, for example, if a business goes bust. Currently, building owners can claim full compensation from any responsible party.
“It’s often councils, with the deepest pockets and no option to walk away, that end up paying out. The risk-aversion this creates leads to frustrating delays and extra cost for builders and homeowners.”
The answer, according to the government, is to scrap what’s known as joint and several liability, replacing it with a new system called proportionate
liability. This effectively means that everyone involved with a build will only be responsible for the parts of it which tye had control over.
Additionally, building owners may get protection when things go wrong by a similar mechanism to that employed in Australia; more bulletproof home warranties and professional indemnity insurance. Some organisations for topflight builders in New Zealand already offer big warranties and a mark of quality assurance.
The second half of these changes also impacts councils, with the new rules allowing councils to voluntarily merge their building consent authorities with those of their neighbours. It’s a trend seen in the Local Waters Done Well space. The central government is keen to see a smaller number of entities governing infrastructure and, it seems, building consents.
“Many councils have asked for this, and I expect they will seize the opportunity to consolidate, share resources like building inspectors and IT systems, and pass the savings on to ratepayers,” says Mr Penk.
“We know the sector is behind us. New Zealand Certified Builders have said that this is the most significant change for the building industry in a generation, that it has been a long time coming and the change is welcomed by the industry.”
Chris Penk says two big changes to construction rules may speed up the process and reduce the large building cost gap existing between New Zealand and Australia
by Amy Fifita
Brushing up on outdoor living
While most of us are still enjoying the warm shelter from being inside, we are nearing the months when outdoor furniture needs to be cleaned, maintained or bought.
As we reach the end of winter, it is time to start preparing for more outdoor time, be it enjoying an exquisite meal or reading a book while soaking in a dose of sunshine. Chairs, tables, benches, gazebos or shadesails all help set the outdoor living scene.
For a spotless job on hardwood furniture, clean your items under the shade with a tarpaulin dropcloth. Ensure you have all the required personal protective equipment, wet the wood and apply the cleaner to soak for a few minutes before brushing the product in and rinsing it off.
With the surface muck gone, now you can find a protectant. It pays to oil or stain any outdoor wooden items like furniture and decking. First, lightly sand the surface before applying oil or stain to the wood to give it a fresh and like-new look.
Wicker chairs, tables and benches can require gentle treatment. Dusting them off or using mild cleaning products helps keep wicker clean and unharmed. Use of cushions, throws and other materials can add a pop of colour, provide comfort and protect furniture. Wipe down or wash any existing cushion covers.
Placing the furniture under a covering like a shade sail also helps protect your outdoor furniture from the elements and weather. Shade sails require careful cleaning with mild detergent and water, while it is on a flat surface.
If the shade sail cannot be taken down, use a ladder to wet and apply detergent.
Although a high-pressure washer may be tempting to use, it could damage the fabric. Instead, enlist a ladder to assist your cleaning process.
Once wet, use a mop or soft-bristle brush to gently wash down the fabric before rinsing thoroughly. Ensure
that the shade sail has fully dried before reinstalling it to avoid mould and mildew.
Scrub and waterblast decks and hightraffic outdoor areas to ensure safe footing once spring and summer arrive. Cleaning the walls and fences will also provide an aesthetic look for those in your outdoor space.
By putting these tasks on your springcleaning checklist, your outdoor suites and spaces will not only look revived, but will also be clean and protected from the weather.
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by Andy Bryenton
Solar power unleashed for small users
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 gigawatthours 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.”
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“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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Cultivating community — a new chapter for Palmers
A familiar name is taking on a fresh new chapter, and this month marks a milestone for Palmers New Plymouth, as we celebrate our one-year anniversary under the ownership of new proprietors, Joanna and Josh Andrews.
“As we reflect on our first year, we’re filled with gratitude for the warm welcome we’ve received from the Taranaki community and excited for the future we’re building here. For me, Joanna, the path to Palmers New Plymouth is deeply rooted in the land,” said Joanna.
“I grew up on a dairy farm in the heart of the Waikato, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of rural life.”
This upbringing gave her an early and profound connection to the earth and the satisfaction of watching things grow.
“The values of hard work, perseverance, and a love for the land were instilled in me from a young age. After leaving the farm, I moved to Hamilton for university. It was there that I met Josh, a true Taranaki boy, through and through.
“His passion for his home region was infectious, and it wasn’t long before I fell in love with both him and the stunning landscapes of Taranaki.
“We connected over our shared values and our vision for a future that blended our passions with a purpose. When the opportunity arose to take on Palmers New Plymouth, we knew it was the perfect fit.”
This business isn’t just about selling plants; it’s about nurturing a community. It’s about providing a space where people can find inspiration, share their passion for gardening, and get the advice and tools they need to create their own green havens.
“Our goal is to make Palmers a welcoming and inspiring place for everyone, from seasoned gardeners to those just starting their journey. We’ve spent the last year getting to know our customers and our team, learning what makes this community thrive.
“We’ve been inspired by the creativity and dedication of our local gardeners and we’ve been working hard to ensure our store reflects that spirit. We’ve expanded our range to include more varieties of plants and gardening supplies, always with an eye on quality and what our customers want.
“Thank you for embracing us and making us feel so at home. We’re committed to continuing the legacy of Palmers and adding our own unique touch to this wonderful business. We look forward to seeing you in the garden centre and helping you grow something beautiful.
Visit Joanna and Josh Andrews at the Palmers Garden Centre at 680 Devon Road, Waiwhakaiho, New Plymouth
“We invite you to come and say hello at Palmers Garden Centre, located at 680 Devon Road, Waiwhakaiho, New Plymouth. Let’s grow together!”
FROM THE GROUND UP
The power of plantain
Recent DairyNZ trials have proved hopeful for farmers wanting to reduce nitrogen leaching on their land using plantain.
New data confirms that modest levels of plantain in pastures reduce nitrogen leaching, offering farmers a practical, science-backed tool to meet environmental goals.
With three years now complete, preliminary findings from the Lincoln University farmlet trial show a 26 per cent reduction in nitrate (N) leaching with an average of 17% Ecotain plantain in the pasture. Results from the Massey farmlet trial show that over four years, N leaching was reduced on average by 26% where Ecotain plantain made up an average 25% in the pasture.
Monitoring on four mid-Canterbury farms shows that an average of 10–15% plantain across the whole farm is achievable by including plantain in the seed mix at pasture renewal and by broadcasting seed across the farm with fertiliser. The highest levels (20-40% plantain) are achieved in new swards one to two years after establishment.
The programme continues to show that plantain is a low-cost option to achieve significant reductions in N leaching without impacting the farm system, DairyNZ’s plantain programme lead Kate Fransen says.
“Nitrogen leaching is an issue for many dairy catchments, so we need practical, affordable solutions. Including plantain in your pasture is ‘low-hanging fruit’ for reducing N leaching, and we now know you don’t need to have 30% to have the positive effect,” said Fransen.
“Research shows that 17% plantain across the farm is enough to make a sizeable difference to N leaching, and that between 10 and 20% plantain across the farm is achievable and practical for many farmers.”
The final year of data collection is underway at the Lincoln site, while at Massey, data collection is complete and final analysis is underway. The programme now turns its focus to the adoption of plantain in targeted N-sensitive catchments.
At the programme’s mid-term review, one of the key recommendations was to understand these soil processes better so that the full benefits of plantain can be incorporated into Overseer. This will be a major focus for the plantain programme over the next three years.
Plantain is recognised as an N leaching mitigation option by regional councils in Canterbury, Horizons, Waikato, Southland
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are in place.
The cultivar Agritonic, marketed by Agricom as Ecotain, has been used in plantain programme trials. An evaluation system is currently under development. It will enable the effectiveness of other plantain cultivars to be determined, and
may be extended to other species in the longer term.
The Plantain Potency Programme is a seven-year research initiative led by DairyNZ and using Agricom’s Ecotain® environmental plantain. The funding partners are MPI, DairyNZ,
and
Further discoveries by the Plantain Potency Programme are showing promising results for farmers and Bay of Plenty, where N leaching limits
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by Amy Fifita
FROM THE GROUND UP
For a refreshing summer
With the weather still nippy, being poolside and enjoying the cooling waters is a distant dream, but
Summer sneaks up in no time, so while we’re all warm inside, planning can begin to ensure a refreshing dip is in the backyard. Yes, the holiday period is a great time to explore nature, but having a pool in the backyard is convenient and provides endless fun.
There is no need to pack a lunch and wrangle the children into the car or spend money travelling; sometimes, a homebased summer is more therapeutic. When planning a pool, there are various options to select from what type and size to colour and landscaping.
Fibreglass pools generally have quicker installation times than concrete, but each has its advantages and disadvantages. If you want a custom pool, the concrete option is a likelier choice. The benefit of a concrete pool is the flexibility of having customisable shapes and sizes.
To ensure safety for unattended children, all residential pools with more than 40cm of water require fencing or barriers. Regulations require pool fences to be at least 1.2 metres high
or for the pool to be 1.2 metres from the ground.
The gap under the fence and gate, and between vertical cladding, must not be less than 100 millimetres, and the mesh fence openings cannot be more than 10mm. Gates must open outward with an automatic and self-locking latch. A pool specialist can talk you through the finer points of the regulations.
When creating a pool space, having good lighting, seating, hardscaping and softscaping are handy considerations. Having flooring, be it a patio, concrete or paving and areas for seating makes the area more usable.
Well-lit paths for visibility to avoid tripping, or any premature dips in the pool, and adds to the atmosphere. Softscaping with shrubs or trees creates privacy, and a splash of nature makes for a grounding area.
If you get the summer preparation done now, by the time the humidity comes, there will be no need to worry. With a pool already on your property, you have a great setting to entertain and relax in.
CROP & PASTURE PREP
ADVERTORIAL
Subterrain Drilling delivers solutions
by Denise Gunn
The team at Subterrain Drilling Ltd provides the wider Taranaki region with underground service installations across water, power, sewer, fibre and communications for private and commercial clients.
Founded in 2019 by Scott Ward and Janine O’Meara, the company has built a strong, trusted and reliable reputation, especially when it comes to tackling the tougher jobs.
“We go the extra mile to complete jobs that others say are impossible,” said Scott.
As the business’s managing director, Scott brings more than nine years of fibre roll-out experience in Taranaki to the company. He started as a site supervisor and progressed to civil build and provisioning manager, leading a team of 60 across multiple drilling and civil crews. This work covered the entire ultra-fast fibre construction across towns including Hāwera, Waitara, Ōakura, Ingelwood, Stratford and Eltham.
Since then, Subterrain Drilling Ltd has spent the past seven years delivering service installations.
“We specialise in underground service installation using trenchless technology, including horizontal direction drilling (HDD), pneumatic thrusting, air lancing and pipe bursting.”
When trenchless isn’t an option, the team also offers micro trenching, terrasawing, chain trenching and mole ploughing.
“This wide range of methods means we can find the most efficient and cost-effective solution for every job.”
Currently, a core crew of eight experienced professionals deliver projects with the same commitment, skill and close-knit teamwork that define the business. A family-style atmosphere within the crew means jobs are done with care and collaboration.
While keeping clients fully informed throughout every stage of the project, the team delivers on time and on budget while accommodating urgent requests.
“We pride ourselves on workmanship, safety and reliability.”
Proudly based in New Plymouth, Subterrain Drilling Ltd has also taken on projects outside the area at clients’ requests.
The business’s project highlights are numerous with some of those including fibre and power installation for Primo cell sites at Upper Weld Road and Tarata, fibre roll-out for Primo in Egmont Village, fibre network extensions with Civtech in Inglewood and New Plymouth, graded sewer installation at Urenui Motor Camp,
“Each project can have its challenges, and we take pride in delivering solutions where others walk away,” said Scott.
Subterrain Drilling Ltd provides an end-toend service installation solution, finding the most cost-effective approach for each project.
The team also takes care of Corridor Access Requests (CAR), Work Access Permits (WAP) and traffic management right through to the reinstatement if required.
Scott said the business has several differentsized drilling rigs in the fleet, which ensures the team can handle jobs of every scale.
“No matter the challenge, we have the right equipment for the job.”
The team at Subterrain Drilling Ltd takes pride in delivering solutions water main replacements in Hāwera, and ongoing ultra-fast fibre extensions and customer installs.
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Insights into wearable technologies
The Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme had been on Natasha Cave’s radar for several years before she applied for a Beef + Lamb New Zealand Leadership Advancement Scholarship last year.
With her youngest child having started school, Natasha applied for and won a B+LNZ Leadership Advancement Scholarship and she elected to enter the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme.
Natasha is now halfway through the sixmonth programme and had just spent a week in Wellington when B+LNZ caught up with her.
“It was really eye-opening and insightful, and while it was busy with long days, it was a great experience,” Natasha said.
As part of the programme, participants complete a research project on a topic of interest. Natasha says she is looking at the potential for wearables on beef cows to transform hill country farming.
She says she and her husband, Alan, were early adopters of the technology, being one of the first hill country beef farmers in the country to put Halter collars on their breeding cows.
Natasha said there wasn’t much information available when they were looking at how wearables could benefit their business, but they knew that if they could improve their grazing management, the benefits would be significant.
farms
She and Alan had been through succession and some very economically tough years and knew they needed to make some big changes in their business to drive productivity and profitability and build resilience.
“We are representative of so many hill country farmers and know, as an industry, we need to make some big step changes, otherwise we will continue to see this ongoing mass exodus of livestock.”
Natasha believes that technologies such as wearables could offer the step-change hill country farming needs to underpin its future. As part of her study, Natasha is very keen to
hear from hill country beef farmers, gather their thoughts on wearable technologies and understand the barriers to adoption.
She has put together a 10-minute survey, which can be accessed at the Wearables on Beef Survey via the Beef + Lamb website. B+LNZ will report on Natasha’s findings once the study is complete.
Applications are now open for one of six 2026 B+LNZ Rural Leadership Advancement Scholarships. The scholarship includes $4,000 towards a place on any Rural Leaders Programme, including the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme and Nuffield Scholarship.
Spring pastures
Natasha Cave has been researching the benefits that wearable technologies can have on hill country
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ADVERTORIAL
by Andy Bryenton
Catch my drift
How much fun can you have on four wheels? The answer to this age-old question has been discovered, and it’s a surprise that will delight the whole family.
Maximum horsepower thrills at supersonic speeds are out of reach for most of us. Let alone the traffic tickets, the cost of a firebreathing hypercar and the expense of closing a road long enough to tap its full potential are astronomical. However, it turns out that the biggest smiles in motoring are to be found off the road, and with less than seven horsepower.
The machine, which puts grins on faces, is called the Trail Blazer Drifta, and it’s a one-seater, like a Formula One racer. That, and the fact that it’s a rear-engined, fourwheeled petrol-powered machine with a racing steering wheel is where the similarities end. That’s because the Trail Blazer Drifta is a 6.5-horsepower, custom-designed off-road go-kart.
All of that force is deployed from a 200cc Honda-designed single-cylinder motor in the back, and the results, when used on a lawn or paddock, are exhilarating. Grab the grips and take off, and even full-sized adults will feel the rush of throwing this nimble little kart into sliding, swooping turns.
While the compact little Trail Blazer is safe for youngsters, it also has a definitive effect on grown-ups who snap on the threepoint safety harness and fire up the engine; it takes them back, potentially decades, to
a time when motoring was all about fun. Half an hour with the Trail Blazer Drifta and you’ll be hitting the corners like a rally champion, feeling like a kid again, and that’s something no other car on the market delivers.
Admittedly, this is a bit of a tongue-incheek review, because the Trail Blazer is not meant to go head to head with Civics and Rangers on the highway or in the supermarket car park. Nevertheless, there’s something about a machine built entirely for handling, fun and lightness, which really does put this little kart on the same page as some of internal combustion’s greatest hits. In those early days of motoring, sports cars were as pure as this, made just to ignite thrills and smiles. There’s all of that distilled into this modern, fun machine, coupled to the build quality and reliability of today’s engineering.
With 75 kilometres of enjoyment out of every little 3.6-litre tank of fuel, the Trail Blazer Drifta wins on fuel economy too, and it’s unlikely that you’ll find anything on four wheels delivering more enjoyment for each litre. What’s best is that in this age of screen time and indoors lethargy, a kart like this one gets the whole family outdoors and bonding over an old-fashioned good time.
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The Trail Blazer Drifta from Go Karts Direct is 200cc of pure, focussed fun on four wheels Go Karts Direct has this and many other exciting models available right now, and they’re anticipating big demand as the Christmas season fast approaches. Visit them at gokartsdirect.co.nz, and take a closer look at the most fun you can have on wheels this summer.
Directors reappointed to board
DairyNZ directors Tracy Brown and Chris Lewis have been returned unopposed to the board.
DairyNZ deputy chair Cameron Henderson said this year’s board of director nomination period reflected the confidence farmers have in their current leadership.
“Tracy and Chris are both proven leaders, who bring substantial governance experience, knowledge, passion and a clear focus on representing farmers,” said Henderson.
“The fact they were unopposed, recognises the trust and respect they’ve built with farmers across the country, who
see the value they add to the board and the wider sector.”
Tracy Brown, who farms in the Waikato, has served on the DairyNZ Board for two terms since 2019, and was announced as the chair-elect last June, before officially becoming chair in October 2024. She is known for her leadership, community engagement and focus on sustainability on-farm.
Chris Lewis is a well-known and respected Waikato dairy farmer and
former Federated Farmers national board member, who has served one term on the DairyNZ Board since 2022.
“Both directors have made a strong impact during their time on the board and will continue to play a vital role as we continue to deliver DairyNZ’s strategy and support farmers through research, new solutions, advocacy and extension,” says Cameron.
“We’re fortunate to have farmers of Tracy and Chris’s calibre, helping shape the future of our sector.
“Their reappointment provides farmers with strong continuity as DairyNZ
remains focused on supporting farmers and progressing a positive future for New Zealand dairy farmers.”
Tracy and Chris’s reappointment will be formally acknowledged at the DairyNZ annual meeting in Hamilton on Thursday, November 6.
Additionally, two nominations were received for the Directors’ Remuneration Committee (DRC) vacancies. The DRC reviews and recommends changes to directors’ fees. As only two vacancies existed, Shirley Trumper and Ellen Barnett were reappointed as committee members.
& LIVESTOCK
Chaos farm
by Liz Clark
If you’re planning on living the lifestyle-block dream, complete with off-the-grid living and sustainable self-sufficiency — here’s how not to do it.
First of all, never be in a hurry to stock up the place with animals. If you’ve got children, that will be almost impossible.
It will start with chickens. Before long, there will be a flock happily destroying the vegetable garden, coming inside to sit on the clean laundry, or worse, stealing the cat food out of the bowls.
Unless you lock them up, the hens will lay eggs all over the place, except where they can be found. Free-range is a wonderful idea, until there’s chook droppings all over the doorstep and you’re always stepping in it.
Roosters look pretty until they grow up and start attacking everything that moves, not to mention the unwanted early wakeup calls from the crowing. It’s worse if they have a gang.
Brightly-feathered fiends flocking together, with big spurs and impressive tails, chasing the kids, the rural postie and anyone else setting foot in their hood. Only one piece of advice — the pot awaits.
Next will be the ponies and the escapes along with it. Ponies and miniature horses seem to have a plan in place for every scenario when it comes to the grass being greener on the other side of the fence. They will go under the fence, through it and even over it if they can.
“Roosters look pretty until they grow up and start attacking everything that moves.”
The same goes for cattle. In this writer’s case, there was the matter of a Jersey cow that liked to steal hay bales from behind an electric fence and then drag the entire thing to the doorstep to eat it. Get the fences right first — then get your animals. Don’t overstock, or you will be in for a huge feed bill and hay-stealing cattle. Along with the animals, establishing an orchard and vegetable gardens will be on the must-do list. It’s off to the nursery to buy expensively-priced fruit trees, bring them home to plant, only to find the ground is like concrete. The vegetable garden gets planted and ends up being devoured by rabbits, turkeys and possums. Get to know your land first, don’t plant in clay in summer — not unless you’ve got a jackhammer.
Get your fences secured first, or you could end up with a hay-stealing Jersey cow
DAIRY & LIVESTOCK
Fencing pros cross swords
by Andy Bryenton
The Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand (FCANZ) celebrated the stars of their industry this August, with a gala awards night highlighting the professionals out there on the land making farming possible.
Without fencing there would be no modern agricultural sector as we know it, and fencers have been integral to the development of the engine room of the Kiwi economy for decades. However, they have only gathered to acclaim the best of the best for the past three years. It’s a longawaited and popular night of recognition for those pushing the boundaries in this trade.
“These awards recognise more than just skill — they celebrate dedication, leadership, and the willingness to give back. Every finalist and winner is making the industry stronger, and it’s a privilege to acknowledge their work,” said FCANZ president Phil Cornelius.
Trainees led out the night’s awards, with Tom Rathgen taking home the Level Three Trainee of the year. The judges noted his consistent commitment to excellence and his willingness to help others succeed. Dan French took out the Level Four Excellence Award, the next step up in industry training, with adjudicators citing his consistently high marks through the year’s course, and his exceptional leadership.
Outside of training and into the young up-and-comers of the fencing industry, Galen Monks was granted the Emerging Talent Award for a combination of skill, professionalism and reliability.
The Industry Contribution Award honoured Mike Billinghurst, given in recognition of his three decades in the fencing industry. Mike has also spent a tenure as NZFC president, and has been a mentor to others starting out in the trade, promoting a gold standard of best practice nationwide.
The Women of Influence Award went to Donna Upton, an accolade reflecting
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her instrumental involvement in delivering the level three and level four fencing qualifications that now produce young fencing leaders for the future.
The evening concluded with the Legacy Award for Lifetime Achievement, one of the highest honours FCANZ can bestow. This year, it went to Wayne Newdick, whose engineering expertise, competition leadership and role as a co-founder of FCANZ have left an indelible mark on the industry. Wayne’s innovations in fencing
tools and his ability to share knowledge have influenced generations of contractors. The winners took home prizes from Farmlands, PGG Wrightson, Bunnings, Stockade and Delfast, as well as the gratitude of their peers and the wider farming community. Industry awards like these help to raise the profile of the industries that make a productive rural sector possible, and reflect a growing pride in the skills keeping regional New Zealand at the top of its game.
Award winner Tom Rathgen is one of the up-and-coming stars of fencing in New Zealand, acclaimed by a panel of his peers in the industry
DAIRY & LIVESTOCK
New dairying science input
by Paul Campbell
A continuing emphasis on science leadership at DairyNZ has seen the appointment of a new science partnerships and impact adviser charged with improving the future of dairy farming.
Dr. Jenny Jago will play a key role in shaping DairyNZ’s science direction, supporting strategic partnerships, and ensuring research continues to deliver meaningful, on-the-ground impact for dairy farmers. She brings deep expertise in science, change leadership and adoption, along with strong relationships across both national and international science communities.
“This new role reinforces our commitment to world-class science that delivers value to farmers,” said DairyNZ CEO Campbell Parker. “Jenny’s appointment, alongside the recent addition of Dr David Burger as chief science and innovation officer, ensures we have strong leadership in place to navigate changes in the science system and foster impactful collaboration.”
Dr Jago will be responsible for driving cross-sector partnerships, seeking external investment opportunities, overseeing the DairyNZ independent science panel, and championing initiatives that connect research with onfarm outcomes. The role also includes
monitoring global extension and delivery trends to inform impactful research and development.
Her appointment follows the transition of Dr Bruce Thorrold, who stepped down from the executive team at the end of August. Bruce will continue to support DairyNZ as a part-time consultant.
“Bruce has made an enormous contribution to DairyNZ and the wider agricultural sector over many years,” said Parker. “We are fortunate to continue drawing on his knowledge and expertise as he supports several key projects, including our low nitrogen plantain and resilient dairy programmes, levy investment work and key initiatives through NZ Animal Evaluation.
“These changes mark an exciting new chapter for DairyNZ’s science and innovation programme. With Jenny and David in complementary leadership roles, and Bruce continuing to contribute in a strategic capacity, we are well positioned to lead science that delivers real results for New Zealand dairy.”
Jenny Jago, DairyNZ science partnerships and impact adviser
