Taranaki Farming Lifestyles, April 2015

Taranaki

FARMING Lifestyles

April 2015 Edition

10,000 copies DELIVERED FREE to every rural delivery address in Taranaki

Young farmer sets sights on grand final

Flock house exhibition attracts international interest P4

P3

Cuppa leads to great mix

P10

SEE OUR ADVERTISEMENT AND EDITORIAL FOR MORE

Dream job for young farmer Page 6–7

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April 2015

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

Phone: 0800 466 793

Region’s pampas growth needs eradicating

Advertising: Betty Willets, Kelvin Green, Glyn Parker, Shane Hendriks

by Denise Gunn

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

New pampas growth is making an appearance in Taranaki and land occupiers are reminded to destroy any of these pest plants found growing on their property.

Editorial: Denise Gunn — 06 329 7701 Website: taranakifarming.co.nz

Email: info@nsmm.co.nz

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Two varieties of pampas grow in New Zealand — common pampas (Cortaderia selloana) and purple pampas (Cortadera jubata). Both species, native to South America, are found throughout the region and classed as eradication pest plants in the Taranaki Regional Council’s Pest Plant Management Strategy.

Under the Strategy, both varieties must be destroyed.

Taranaki Regional Council recommends physical removal of this invasive plant or spraying with glyphosate herbicides. Although young plants can be pulled out of the ground after the soil has been loosened, a bulldozer may be required to remove large plants. Pampas can be disposed of through mulching or composting.

After the initial removal of pampas, it is important to revisit the site on an annual basis to control regrowth.

Taranaki Regional Council’s environmental services manager, Steve Ellis, said all pampas plants and shelter

belts must be destroyed. “Pampas should not be confused with native toetoe, which has a waxy surface on the leaf base,” said Mr Ellis.

“And unlike toetoe, mature pampas plants have tightly curled dead leaves at their base.”

Alternatives recommended for shelter include trees, flaxes and native toetoe which also enhance landscape and biodiversity values.

Pampas has the ability to cover large open spaces in a short period of time and is a threat to native plant growth and horticulture production. It reduces visibility on roadsides and can become a fire hazard as it produces a large amount of dry matter. Pests such as rats, mice, rabbits and possums also inhabit areas with pampas.

For further information, phone the Taranaki Regional Council on 0800 736 222 and ask for an environmental officer. Alternatively visit www.trc.govt. nz/pest-plants.

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Young farmer sets sights on grand final

by Denise Gunn

Taranaki/Manawatu Young Farmers regional winner, Pete FitzHerbert, is gearing up to represent the region at the 2015 ANZ Young Farmer Contest grand final.

The 29-year-old stock manager from Hunterville is a member of the Marton Young Farmers Club. He manages the family farm and also runs a Dorset Down sheep stud.

Pete said he has competed in six regional finals in the past and learnt from them all.

“The contest has real scope with what can be included and lots of little traps to catch you out.

“So experience does help.”

This year will be his first attempt at the grand final.

Eight contestants, selected from three district events held in Manawatu and Taranaki, competed in the regional final.

Other members of the Marton Young Farmers Club also featured in the top placings, with Nigel Will (28) Pete Fitz-Herbert in action at the regional final in second place and Erica van Reneen (30) fourth. Twenty-two-year-old Pete’s prize pack from the competition Cameron Black of the Massey University was worth over $10,000 and Young Farmers Club placed third. included cash, scholarships, products All of the competitors tackled a and services. variety of practical tasks, and theory and “I really enjoy the evening session/ business component modules covering show,” said Pete. all aspects of farming “The competition heats up, and it’s Pete found the technical exam section a race to the buzzer and a test of your of the competition the most challenging. agriculture and general knowledge.”

“Trying to switch on at 6.45am to sit Pete will now focus on preparing for a 50 minute exam is difficult, especially this year’s grand final which will be held when it is not one of my strengths,” in Taupo from July 2–4. he said.

“I have a lot of study to do,” he said.

“Although I managed to get the top “I am in to win and everything I can score in it this year as I had been putting do to put myself in a position to win will time into improving in this section.” be done come July 2.”

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES April 2015

Attracting dairy workers

Faced with the need for more workers in the industry, Federated Farmers and Dairy NZ with other industry bodies will release the dairy industry’s newly developed Quality Workplace Accord in the near future.

“We are faced with attracting a further 8,300 qualified workers to the industry by 2025. To do that we have to show prospective and existing industry participants that dairy farming is an attractive, exciting industry that offers a good worklife balance and the opportunity for significant career advancement,” says Federated Farmers Employment spokesperson and Manawatu dairy farmer, Andrew Hoggard.

“The accord aims to help dairy farmers lift the overall performance of the industry in employment standards and people management to a point where there is a genuine quality work environment.

Mr Hoggard says the Accord also provides a framework to show the industry’s 12,000 diverse business

units how to get better results from their recruitment and retention.

“By making their work environments stand out from the array of other options presented to talented people, farm employers will be able to pick the cream of the crop.”

The Dairy Industry Strategy 2013– 2020, makes the attraction and retention a central theme — vital to the success of the dairy industry.

“There are some great dairy farmer employers out there but for many they need the tools and support to make their farm something to be proud of, which is what this Workplace Accord is aiming to achieve,” said Mr Hoggard.

The final Quality Workplace Accord will be available to dairy farmers on Federated Farmers’ and Dairy NZ’s websites in the near future.

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April 2015

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

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BY DENISE GUNN

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exhibition attracts TIO

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Flock House in the Rangitikei region served as an agricultural training centre for 64 years with more than 3,000 students taught a vast range of farming skills in that time.

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he centre’s history has recently been collated, its memorabilia salvaged and restored, and personal stories retold to form an exhibition at the Bulls Museum.

Bulls Museum vice president Neville Bott said it has taken months of work to gather the pieces for the exhibition.

“People have also brought things in to add to it.”

After World War One, local MP, the late Edward Newman, drove the initiative for an agricultural training centre. At a

meeting of the Marton Farmers’ Union in 1918, Mr Newman suggested that woolgrowers allocate their profits to a fund set up to assist dependants of British seamen who had been killed or injured during the war. The Marton Farmers’ Union approached their headquarters with the proposal and over 2,600 woolgrowers donated $237,000 to the New Zealand Sheep Owners’ Acknowledgement of Debt to British Seamen Trust Fund. This organisation recognised that seamen had kept the

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES April 2015

A Flock House blazer with emblem account until the they reached 21 years of age.

In 1937, the New Zealand government bought the property as a going concern.

The facility then continued to operate for the benefit of War World Two orphans, and was later opened up to New Zealand farm cadets. The Department

“Flock House was funded out of goodwill, and the whole thing was about goodwill.” of Agriculture, which later became the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, managed the property.

Additional land was purchased over the years with sheep, beef and dairy cattle, and pigs farmed on the property.

The last intake of farm cadets was in 1988. The Flock House homestead,

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The exhibition, which has attracted national and international interest, runs until the end of June.

“We’ve had terrific feedback,” said Neville.

The Bulls Museum is open seven days a week from 10am–3pm.

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built in 1909, was formerly known as McKelvie House. Listed as category one with the Historic Places Trust, Flock House was suitably named as it was the place people ran to for safety during Maori uprisings and floods.

Greg Wall, a former trainee, attended Flock House in 1985 and has many fond memories of his time there.

“It was a fantastic year,” he said.

“Flock House was funded out of goodwill, and the whole thing was about goodwill.”

Although raised in Palmerston North city, Greg gained a vast array of skills during his year at Flock House.

“We were taught huge life skills in all areas,” he said.

“There was no shortage of facilities and the farms were well set up and developed.”

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Bulls Museum volunteers with former Flock House trainee Greg Wall (second from left)

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shipping lanes open for ships carrying New Zealand wool to Great Britain, and frequently come under attack.

Although donations were initially paid to the dependants living in Britain, a decision was made to bring the seamen’s sons to New Zealand to train them as farmers.

Following the purchase of the Flock House property, along with adjoining land in 1924, the Trust founded the agricultural training centre. Originally the centre was only open to the sons of seamen, but later small groups of seamen’s daughters were also offered training. The girls were taught domestic skills, along with nursing, milking, orchard work, poultry and bee-keeping.

Annually around 100 boys arrived to train at Flock House. They received one third of their wages in cash with the remainder deposited into a Post Office

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April 2015

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

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Megan Bates landed her dream job when she took on the Taranaki/Manawatu field officer position with New Zealand Young Farmers in October.

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t’s a job where she can combine her agricultural background, teaching qualifications and experience, along with her passion for the organisation.

Growing up on a Taranaki dairy farm gave Megan a well-rounded knowledge of the daily routine required to keep a large operation running smoothly.

When her parents relocated to a dairy farm south of Palmerston North, Megan joined them as soon as she completed her secondary education at a boarding school in Taranaki. Studying towards a Bachelor of Education at Massey University followed. And it was during her tertiary studies that she joined a local Young Farmers club to meet new people.

“I have always been a member of the Opiki Young Farmers Club and they hold a special place in my heart,” said Megan.

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several years, taking care of the administration work and organising activities for members.

Now as the Taranaki/Manawatu field officer, Megan visits and supports 13 Young Farmers clubs in the region by providing tools to help them run and TeenAg programmes, organising Get Ahead Education days, attending district and regional competitions, and any other additional activities.

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

Megan landed her dream job as a Young Farmers field officer “I love the enthusiasm that the primary and secondary students have,” said Megan. “It gives you a real buzz to see them enjoying activities based around the industry.”

Megan’s teaching background has helped her immensely with her new position.

“I have been implementing some of the ideas and resources that NZYF had created at the school I was teaching at.

“I had a good knowledge of the organisation, was passionate and had ideas about where we could head in the future with AgriKids, TeenAg and Young Farmers Clubs.”

When Megan’s working day for Young Farmers is completed, her gumboots are kept handy as she helps her partner out on a dairy grazing unit he runs.

“During my spare time I like to be on the farm,” she said.

April 2015

Megan with Opiki Young “There is always something to do.”

However, despite a busy work and farm schedule, Megan still finds time to enjoy her interests which includes keeping fit and healthy, and attending early morning boot camps.

“I also love the outdoors and like to go walking, hunting, diving, and go to the beach as much as I can.”

Megan has found the Young Farmers organisation to be a great way to meet

people and join in exciting activities and members don’t have to be a farmer to join.

“You become a part of a group that is not only great for socialising but provides learning opportunities, career pathways and networking experiences you can’t get anywhere else.”

This year’s ANZ Young Farmer Contest Grand Final will be held in Taupo from July 2–4.

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April 2015

ADVERTORIAL

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

Top Soil Water Retention

by John K Morris CEO of Agrissentials

Chemical production over the years has impacted heavily on our soils, soil fertility and particularly soil biology.

These micro-organisms build humus levels in the soil which in turn increases the water retention quality of the soil. The more microbes, the more humus, the more moisture retained to help the farm through those dry periods.

Agrissentials multi-mineral, microbial rich fertilisers bring life, vitality, and water retention back to the soil. A live living soil not only holds its ground, but encourages worm life and other diverse beneficial creatures, which all help to support the soil and the plants.

The plant extends a great amount of energy, captured from the sun and transferred to carbon (humus) compounds, building root cells, excreting high energy mucigel into the soil, alongside the root surface, expanding this microbial garden mulch to the benefit of both plant and microorganisms. The organisms enjoy the luxury of this highly nutritious food source which encourages microbial growth. Components of mucigel exudates are: amino acids, vitamins, sugars, tannins, alkaloids, phosphatides, indole, salicylic acid, nucleic acid, tartaric acid, oxalic acid, malic acid, nitric acid, citric acid — all beneficial to life both below

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and above the soil. In a live, living soil there are a myriad of things happening that not only benefit the plant and the micro organisms, but transfer on as benefit for animals, farms and farmers. As the soil biology numbers grow so does the increase in soil water retention, soil drainage capacity, topsoil, carbon, nitrogen and all other minerals stored in the organic matter of the soil courtesy of the microorganisms, to be taken as required by the plant.

This magic system has been pumping away on our planet for millions of years. Its Mother Nature’s formula that has not only provided for all life on the planet, but has kept it sustainable and regenerating, without external interference — how amazing is that!

The United Nations have declared 2015 as the year of the soils.

According to the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations), “soil is a finite resource, meaning its loss and degradation is not recoverable within a human lifespan. As a core component of land resources, agricultural development and ecological sustainability, is the basis for food, feed, fuel and fibre production and for many critical ecosystem services.” It is therefore a highly valuable natural resource, yet it is often overlooked. The natural area of productive soils is limited.

Under an agrochemical system of farming I believe that this statement would be correct.

However, on a monitored dairy farm in Northland operating under a BioGro certified program, and using Agrissentials Rok Solid full spectrum solid fertiliser and our Oceans 100 liquid fertiliser, over an 8 year period we increased the topsoil of 50mm depth on a clay base, down to 200mm to 250mm deep. The soil on this farm was so alive that it was spongy to walk on and the farmer was feeding out hay from a 2 wheel drive, cut down, Toyota Lite Ace van, during winter which is unbelievable on any clay based soil in Northland.

So, by using the best on earth fertilisers, the anecdotal evidence confirms that you can regenerate and increase top soil depth, for better production and it won’t take a lifetime.

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

April 2015

FISHING, HUNTING AND DUCKSHOOTING

Positive prospects for 2015 Game Season

9

SAFETY FIRST ON THE FARM

by Glenn Maclean, Taranaki Fish and Game

Hunters can expect to see good numbers of ducks when the game bird hunting season gets underway at 6.30am on Saturday, May 2.

A good breeding season and relatively strong duck numbers has allowed Taranaki Fish and Game to continue with an eight week hunting season, and 10 bird daily bag limit for the grey/ mallard duck.

Similarly, numbers of the paradise shelduck have been increasing on the Taranaki ring plain and with dry summers in the last three years, they have caused issues with damage to farmers’ chicory crops. As a result, the daily bag limit for paradise shelduck has been raised from 10 to 15 for opening weekend in Area C — the Taranaki provincial area including all of the Stratford district.

After opening weekend and in areas A and B, the bag limit remains at 10.

Paradise shelduck decoy easily and provide a great hunting opportunity for young hunters or those just getting into game bird hunting. A good harvest is also important in managing their impacts on farming operations.

Despite some comments, there are currently no restrictions on shotgun magazine capacity, however hunters who are travelling to hunt in other Fish and Game regions should be aware that different regulations may apply, including reduced season lengths and bag limits and restrictions on shotgun magazine capacity.

Under the game bird hunting regulations, the owner or occupier of a property, their spouse and one child can hunt on this property without a licence.

This recognises that farmers have often done their bit to look after game birds and their habitat on the property, however they are still bound by all other hunting regulations.

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One outcome of this decision is that Fish and Game have no contact details for these hunters and cannot supply any information on regulation changes, or other items of interest such as assistance and funding for wetland development.

Prospects for the coming season are looking good, it is definitely worth getting out there and enjoying what our great sport has to offer.

If you would like to be on the Fish and Game mailing list, please contact Jilli Steedman on 06 345 4908 or Taranaki@fishandgame.org.nz.

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Young farmers gearing up for regional final

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TARANAKI FISH & GAME REGION Season Duration (dates inclusive)

Species

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All Areas

NZ Shoveler Duck

2 May to 1 Jun 2015

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2 May to 28 Jun 2015

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10

April 2015

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

RURAL WOMEN ADVERTORIAL

Village creations

Come and visit The Scented Soap Deli, located at Village Saleyards on the main road through Pirongia, under the trees where the Tui come to sing.

Cuppa leads to great mix

Where to house the new community olive press was the hot topic of conversation when president of Awana Rural Women’s group, Gendie Somerville-Ryan, met with Carol and Trevor Rendle of Barrier Olive Growers Ltd.

Nikki Kaye and Trevor Rendle of Great Barrier Olive Growers

We opened our shop ‘Village Saleyards’ last July, this is where the old Pirongia — Alexandra saleyards were located.

Whilst I have distributed vegetable oil soap for the past 11 years, my partner Ian has been creating unique garden art from New Zealand native timbers, recycled corrugated iron and copper.

We cleared out Ian’s workshop and sent him down to the back shed to work, and the shop was set up using old pallet timber for the flooring and corrugated iron for the ceiling, giving it a farming yesteryear vibe.

Da r r yl G o bl e

Jeweller

As we travel throughout New Zealand exhibiting at expo’s, A and P shows and New Zealand field days, we have the opportunity to find quality craft made here in New Zealand by very talented kiwis and we also have a few antiques that keep in line with our farmhouse theme.

We have beautiful water features on display that have been sculpted from West Coast rock, slide guitars made from hubcaps and much more.

The next time you are passing through town, stop for a break and pop in, we would love to see you.

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The Great Barrier Island branch of Rural Women NZ owns its own premises, which at the time was undergoing a major upgrade. Their garage, it seemed, would make the perfect place for an olive press — and after a cup of coffee, the olive press had a new home.

“Awana Rural Women activities encourage community co-operation and development and what better way to demonstrate this than to help promote economic growth through horticulture,” said Mrs Somerville-Ryan.

“Our facilities are centrally located, of a high standard, and well-known around Great Barrier Island.

“Housing the olive press is very much in line with our philosophy of helping the community to help itself through education, personal development and building community capacity. It’s a winwin for everyone.”

The community olive press was officially opened by Hon Nikki Kaye, MP for Great Barrier (and Auckland Central), who acknowledged the perseverance

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and hard work of everyone involved in getting the project off the ground.

“The reason this cooperative approach has worked on the Barrier is that so many people contribute. The olive press is important for economic reasons — it gives people another option to stay on the Island,” said Ms Kaye.

A recent survey showed that there are over 600 olive trees already fruiting on Great Barrier Island but developing an industry from the olives was impractical if fruit had to be shipped off the Island for pressing.

Barrier Olive Growers has now purchased the press and growers will be able to press their fruit for a nominal charge — hopefully kick-starting an olive oil ‘export’ industry for the Barrier.

Awana Rural Women can see a great future for Barrier olive oil, from an olive oil festival to an olive picking and pressing experience. The first step however, is to get the 2015 vintage harvested and pressed — and enjoyed by those on the Barrier and beyond.

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

April 2015

11

Ready for the Rain ADVERTORIAL

Time for change Each change of season marks a good time to do a bit of maintenance on pumps and water filtration equipment.

At Pump & Purify, we recommend taking the opportunity to see if filters need replacing, give the housings and UV system a clean, and assess whether your system is still meeting your requirements.

Filter housings do not need chemical washes.

Prepare before shutting off the water by collecting and boiling a quantity of water. Remove the old filters, wash the housings out thoroughly with dishwashing detergent and hot water, flush them thoroughly to eliminate any soap residue, if possible dry in the sunlight, or otherwise with a clean cloth, and replace the filters.

Check all the connectors for any leaks, and if necessary reapply thread seal tape and tighten. No point in wasting water!

Using chemicals such as chlorine can introduce contaminants back into new filters, and is in most cases unnecessary if regular maintenance has been performed. Chlorine also breaks down rubber and can damage seals in pumps, and bladders in pressure tanks.

Perhaps you do not have a filtration system yet, or only a basic system?

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Maybe you want to consider adding another stage, or adding UV. After such a hot dry summer, your roof has not had regular ‘washing’ by the rain, tanks will be low, and contaminants sitting in the bottom will get stirred up.

This is the perfect time for waterborne bacteria and viruses to be introduced to your drinking water and make you and your family sick. Sediments and chemicals that may have drifted on to the roof may also damage your pump equipment, or find their way through to washing machines, dishwashers and cause faults.

There is no need to boil water, or buy water in. Talk to Pump & Purify today, to see how you can clean up your water supply for far less than the annual cost of buying water.

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Tank maintenance With the changing of seasons upon us, now is a good time to clean the water tanks out before refilling to minimise contamination.

It is recommended water tank systems are cleaned every six to 12 months including the guttering.

The tank can be disinfected by applying half a cup of household bleach per 1,000 litres of water.

Leave it in the tank for a few hours before flushing to waste. Clearing your tank of debri should usually

only consist of collecting any plant or animal matter that may have fallen in.

Sediment should be pushed to the bottom of the tank and removed through a vacuum system or pump. An inverted funnel or pool vacuum cleaner can also be used by moving it across the floor of the tank.

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12

April 2015

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

For a Warmer Winter

SMOKE ALARMS

Save Lives

BE FIRE SAFE THIS WINTER

Aluminium Solutions Taranaki Ltd Warm up your home now by your double glazing s! w do in w existing

Whatever your project – new home, additions, renovations, double glazing or commercial joinery, Nebulite has the complete window and door solution.

Aluminium Solutions Taranaki Ltd Tel 06 765 0556 Fax 06 765 0558 Mobile 027 200 5556 Call Free 0800 4 Nebulite Email: paul@nebulitetaranaki.co.nz

Visit our designer showroom to view modern solutions to all you window and door needs OR we can come to you.

Keeping warm this winter Although winter is fast approaching, there is still time to get ready for the colder months. An efficiently heated home can save so much money as well as help fend off coughs and colds.

Nebulite Windows and Doors can help keep your home warm and dry with their range of products. The team understand that each house is different and can offer an extensive range of double glazed glass to suit individual requirements.

Flexibility is key when installing doors and windows and Nebulite focus on practicality and versatility.

They also offer a Foldback Bifold system that places panels along the building line rather than protruding outwards, taking up valuable space.

Woodburner’s can also provide a practical and cost effective solution to heating your home.

Former builder AJ has 20 years experience with woodburners and decided to become self-employed in 2009 with his business AJ’s Wood Burner Installation and Servicing.

They must be installed to reach NZ standards and AJ says he has seen too many installs that have been a disaster waiting to happen.

He suggests an inspection by an approved installer prior to purchasing a home to identify any faults and provide valuable peace of mind.

“Woodburner’s should also be serviced regularly — on an annual or bi-annual basis.

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“That’s not just about sweeping the chimney, the baffles, bricks and door seals should all also be checked and keeping them in top condition will maintain a fire’s performance and brightness. It will save you money in the long term.”

They also specialise in the installation of a wide range of designer burner’s that can be finished with surrounding schist or stonework to make a feature of a formal lounge or living area.

AJ’s can source and install any wood burner that is on the market and recommends a heat transfer kit as an option that many homes would benefit from.

These can be put in at installation time or later and they move heat that otherwise sits at ceiling level to other

NZ MADE COOKER at an affordable price

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rooms making it an efficient way to heat the home.

Once your home is heated doors and windows play a vital role in letting moisture out and keeping warmth in during the colder months. Customers are offered a stylish and long lasting variety of practical solutions with Rylock Windows and Doors.

This has been their priority since the business began back in 1954.

There are many things that customers must consider when choosing the right windows and doors for their home such as indoor-outdoor flow, temperature control and sound reduction, security, functionality and style.

Rylock supply a range of innovative options through to double glazing, tinting, thermally broken joinery and passive ventilation.

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

RURAL WHEELS

April 2015

13

Pay attention!

Heavy duty diesel rolls out

by Andy Bryenton

Kiwi farms run on diesel power — from burly utes to rugged tractors. And now a new diesel UTV brings that power to even more jobs around the farm.

Adding to its already impressive range of models, Polaris have announced the impending arrival of the 2015 Ranger 1000 Diesel HD (Heavy Duty) — built specifically for the New Zealand and Australian markets.

That HD tag indicates the inclusion of a suite of heavy duty upgrades, beefing up the Ranger for the hard knocks Kiwi farming is famous for. Add in electronic power steering and engine braking with 4-Wheel descent control to combat New Zealand’s hilly terrain, and this dieselpowered workhorse begins to look like just what the doctor ordered.

The 2015 Ranger 1000 Diesel HD receives a number of upgrades over the 2014 model, including being built on the more modern Ranger XP platform.

Styling has been given a fast-forward too, and under all that rakish bodywork sits a powerful 1,028cc Diesel Engine, up from 900cc in the previous iteration.

A massive 110 Amp Alternator is bolted to this diesel mill, cranking out the kind of power usually associated with utes.

And a new, tough cab frame keeps riders safe, even in the worst conditions.

With upgrades to the chassis, the Ranger 1000 Diesel HD now shares

around road works 4X4 SIDE-BY-SIDE UTILITY VEHICLES  Electric  Petrol  Diesel

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the same attributes which have made the Ranger XP 900 a top choice for New Zealand farmers. This new model also boasts innovations such as a restyled cockpit for driver comfort, dual A-Arm front suspension for a smoother ride, and a larger 37.6 Litre fuel tank for longer trips between fill ups.

The 1,028cc Kohler Diesel under the hood is a 3 cylinder overhead cam liquidcooled symphony of power. This proven, high performance mill utilises indirect

injection to deliver smooth torque and reduced combustion noise. The big donk also delivers a class-leading 907kg towing capacity, 680kg payload capacity and helps haul a rear dump box with gas-assist dumping operation that can carry up to 454kg of materials and a full-sized pallet.

That’s an impressive suite of upgrades — and more than enough reason to book a test drive with your local Polaris dealer.

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If you are on the lookout for a sturdy 4×4 for the farm with a greater fuel efficiency and lower maintenance cost than any ATV on the market, the legendary Mahindra Thar is here. Tackles the toughest of terrains and gives you superior off-roading capability.

$ 71,490 + GST

1826cc diesel indirect fuel injection • Max lifting capacity 1200 kg • Larger tyres for better traction & stability Economical and Easy to operate - Designed for general purpose farming, horticulture, materials handling, livestock operations and grounds maintenance.

Two transmission options are available Gear or HST.

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• Powerful Perkins 100hp 4-cylinder, 4400cc turbo diesel engine • Power Shuttle 32x32 including 8 Creeper Gears • Heavy dutyloader with 1870kg lift capacity loader fitted with third service • Electronic 3-point hitch with 3110kg lift capacity • Wet clutch

www.mahindra.co.nz 0800 282 726

14

April 2015

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

RURAL WHEELS

Reliable record with staying power

by Andy Bryenton

The small SUV sector of the market has grown hugely in recent years, to the detriment, perhaps of that old favourite the big station wagon or roomy sedan.

While many unfairly view contenders like BMW’s X3 and Toyota’s RAV4 as mere imitations of their ‘big brother’ stablemates — like the Range Rover and Land Cruiser — there’s no denying the versatility of a machine which can effortlessly switch from town sophistication to country ruggedness.

Doing their part to shed the preconception of smaller sport utilities as off-road lightweights is the Sportage, a mid-sized offering from the forwardthinking Korean auto maker Kia. Having evolved through several generations, the current model has proven not just competent as a ‘shopping cart’ and a vacation escape vehicle, but also as an all-round dependable motor. In fact, the Sportage has topped

the prestigious JD Power Vehicle Dependability Study — for the third time. The survey, which is internationally recognised as a fair (if demanding) real world test of toughness tracks a sample of 3-year-old machines, talking to owners who put their daily drivers through the usual rote of work, play and chores. Any problems are reported, with points deducted from a maximum score for any breakdowns or failures.

Kia are pleased to have received a stunning report card, with the Sportage coming out ahead of its contemporaries in terms of surviving the hard knocks real life can throw at a vehicle — something it’s hard to simulate on the test track. “The JD Power VDS award reinforces Kia’s ongoing commitment to

quality and dedication to craftsmanship in building world-class products,” says Todd McDonald, General Manager of Kia Motors New Zealand.

“The Sportage is a clear example of how far the entire Kia model range has progressed and this level of quality is tangible evidence of our long-term strategy to enhance the Kia ownership experience.”

Our pick for a test drive would have to be the two-litre LX Diesel AWD, which

delivers plenty of space for the whole family, alongside the all-wheel-drive power to make short work of country driving conditions. It’s a measure of Kia’s belief in the durability of this vehicle — borne out by JD Power’s survey — that they offer a comprehensive five year warranty with every new Sportage, making it a wise choice for those who know what kind of curve balls the real world can throw at a Kiwi family’s set of wheels.

EXPERIENCED MOBILE AUTO ELECTRICAL TECHNICIAN FOR ON THE FARM OR IN THE WORKSHOP SERVICE. Cars, bikes, tractors, trailers, diggers or Motorhomes.

Air conditioning service and repair also available.

We have the experience to put your vehicle back on track – at a price you can afford!

Whatever you have we can help.

Merv Lucas Auto Electrical

in association with Automobile Phone 0800 Merv Lucas (0800 637 858) ask for Brent or Kerry or 06 763 8811 Kelvin

Merv Lucas AUTO ELECTRICAL (2007)

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

April 2015

RURAL WHEELS

Green machines a versatile choice

“SEE US FOR YOUR SAFE MOTORING”

by Andy Bryenton

TYRES - MAGS - SHOCKS SUSPENSION - WOF WORK EXHAUSTS - MUFFLERS - BRAKES

There was a wealth of agricultural power on display at the recent Northland Field Days, with machines manufactured in many nations competing for attention from the farming public.

But, as at immense agricultural expos such as Europe’s giant Agritechnica, one of the most noticeable brands was liveried in smart green and black.

Deutz Fahr’s range of tractors lived up to their reputation as the ‘Mercedes Benz of Farming’, displaying a range which covered a wide scope of applications, from row cropping through to the toughest tasks in pasture management.

It was little surprise that the big German marque put on a good showing.

Their 9 series of large 270-hp-plus machines have just received the award for best design in the coveted European Golden Tractor competition. That same philosophy of meticulous engineering is apparent in the smaller, more versatile 5 and 6 series tractors which excited a lot of attention at our local Field Days.

This may be because of the advances in fuel economy, power, stability and ease of operation which have marked out Deutz Fahr as a market leading innovator. Certainly, these machines are made to pass the very stringent European Union emissions standards, and do so with a suite of technological engine advancements which also aim to save fuel. But there’s also the fact that the ‘Mercedes Benz’ comparison

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also extends to the comfort and logical layout of the 5 and 6 series’ cab — a place where spending hours behind the controls seems a lot less like a chore.

With tractors in the ‘mid range’ horsepower band a popular choice with farmers looking for a versatile, multi-role

ADVERTORIAL

Ezy Up is easy as

If you’ve got a ride-on mower you’ll know it will need a clean once in awhile.

That especially applies to its underside, which is the part that comes into closest contact with the grass.

And occasionally you want to check the blades and maybe get them sharpened.

But the problem with ride-on mowers is that they are so darned heavy.

Unlike a conventional lawn mower you can’t just pick them up and turn them over.

So, the solution adopted by many owners is to forget it and hope that everything is OK. But that’s dangerous. If you can’t clean the bottom of your mower, grass and debris

15

will accumulate. The blades will have to work harder and will be less effective. If that happens you won’t be getting the best value from it.

The solution is something so simple you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of it yourself.

It’s the Ezy Up ride-on mower lift that lifts your ride-on mower, so you can get underneath. It’s simple to operate and conveniently sized, so you can store it in your garage or shed.

What are you waiting for?

Go to www.ezyup.co.nz and order today. It’s quick and easy — just like the Ezy Up.

machine, it’s good to know that, at Deutz Fahr at least, top-tier technologies aren’t just lavished on the big 300hp beasts at the top of the intensive farming line.

Awards, as Deutz Fahr knows, come and go, and there are always more to strive for.

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16

April 2015

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

ADVERTORIAL

Kinsey Soil Fertility Course

Neal Kinsey is returning to New Zealand explaining the essentials and finer points of soil fertility.

He will be at Cambridge from 29th June to 3rd July and then in Ashburton, hosted

by Golden Bay Dolomite and Kiwi Fertiliser.

The starting point at Cambridge is trace elements. Many farmers’ soil tests do not even measure them; so they are not applied.

Is it any wonder some farms frequently have costly animal health problems? There will be good advice on offer for farmers and reps involved in all types of farming and growing.

Dr Linus Pauling, winner of two Nobel Prizes, stated: “In my opinion, one can trace every sickness, every disease and every ailment to mineral deficiency.” If you accept this statement, then improvements can be made in the following areas by improving fertiliser practices: Stock health; insect problems (including ticks and mites) on stock, pastures and crops; bacterial and fungal diseases; dipping, drenching and dagging regimes; fruit and vegetables that do not keep; fruit and vegetables that don’t taste at all good; kauri die-back; Psa of kiwifruit; weeds including YBG; the need

to inoculate silage; or the fact that large areas of pasture have to be re-grassed each year. One test for a dairy farmer is the effluent pond. If it is anaerobic, it will have a tendency to crust over and require constant and costly maintenance.

If it is aerobic, no such problems will be observed. The pond is a reflection of the health of the rest of the property. If it is not healthy, then neither are the soil or the stock.

All the above problems are related to soil fertility and can be mitigated to a greater or a lesser degree.

The course will cover all essential trace elements including silicon; plus nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur, compost, carbon, calcium, magnesium, and much more. Prior to the course itself, we have the opportunity to visit properties carrying out the principles of correct soil fertility. These properties have not been on the system very long, but have already showed clear improvements. For more information go to goldenbaydolomite.co.nz or kiwifertiliser. co.nz for details and registration.

ADVERTORIAL

Three Waikato iconic brands combine to deliver value to rural schools Three Waikato iconic brands — one on the rugby field the other two in agribusiness — have entered a collaboration to promote sport in rural schools.

Check out Neal Kinsey’s courses for 2015

www.goldenbaydolomite.co.nz P: Ron McLean – 0800 549 433

Check out Neal Kinsey’s courses for 2015

www.kiwifertiliser.co.nz P: Ron McLean – 0800 549 433 P: Brett Petersen – 0800 549 422

QUAD BIKE SAFETY Concentrate on the riding.

Look where you’re going, not where the stock are going.

Waikato Milking Systems and Deosan are two 100% Kiwi businesses which have earned a status in agribusiness as leaders of innovation in dairy technology.

In February they announced an agreement to work together to advance the speed of innovation in dairy technology and the delivery on farm of the best systems and products for New Zealand dairy farmers.

One of the first initiatives of that agreement is the joint sponsorship of the Waikato Chiefs Rugby Club to promote sport in rural schools.

Beginning in April, dairy farmers will be asked to nominate a local rural school in the Chief’s supporters region with three school sport rugby prizes to be won. The winning school will have their sports prize personally delivered by three members of the Chiefs.

Dean Bell CEO of Waikato Milking Systems and Kip Bodle Managing Director of Deosan say their passion for helping people excel in their chosen field was born in dairying but extends across agribusiness and at home on the rugby field. “We know rural schools face the same challenges as their urban counterparts, but these

are often exacerbated by their relative isolation from large centres.

“The Waikato is dotted with small, vibrant schools and we want to do something which will make a difference to those schools and those kids.

“Rugby is one of the greatest training grounds for the attitude which will take children forward in the world so we’re going to play our part.”

Kip Bodle says that this campaign is about celebrating great grass roots brands from the Waikato and giving something back to the community.

“We are on a mission to connect with as many farmers as we can, at their shed gate, to give them a chance to try our products and meet our people.

“Getting our products on farm is how we can directly help improve the health and productive capacity of dairy herds with the best milking equipment for animals and people, and by improving udder health and the cleanliness of the milking plant.

We see our rural school sports campaign as a way for us to achieve this while having a little fun at the same time.”

STOP MEANS STOP! DON’T BREAK THE RULES

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

April 2015

DAIRY

17

ADVERTORIAL

Foreword for ‘Homeopathic Handbook for Dairy Farming, 3rd Edition, Revised and Expanded’ January 2015 It has been 13 years since I wrote the foreword to the 2nd edition and 18 since I wrote the first one for this practical and useful resource.

This new edition is ‘choc-a-block’ and enriched extensively due to the thousands of interactions between Homeopathic Farm Support (HFS) and its clients for nearly two decades.

It is generally wise to question the process of ‘reinventing the wheel’, unless you can improve upon the basic design. In this instance, I would compare the 1st edition to the original Ford Model T that was revolutionary in its day and remains a classic but does not compare to Ford’s latest models in terms of speed, efficiency, bells and whistles etc. This new edition shows continuity with its heritage but is so enhanced and packed with new innovations and improved formatting as to be nearly unrecognisable from its first ‘model’.

Question: What’s New in the 3rd Edition? Answer: ‘Heaps’.

The 3rd edition is packed with references to over 50 more animal preparations in the Materia Medica (alphabetical listing of ‘medical materials’ used in dairy homeopathy); 40 additions to the Animal Ailments section; a new and revised Quick Reference and an all-new-standalone-yet-complementary-to the main book, section for owners of dry stock and steers, ‘Maintenance Guidelines for Dry Stock’.

These new and expanded materials are included because they have come out of the experience of Tineke Verkade, her dedicated staff and their thousands of clients around New Zealand who have been using homeopathic and herbal products to tackle acute health issues on conventional, biodynamic and organic farms. It is informed by effective responses to seasonal challenges and ‘constitutional’ pre-dispositions in dairy herds (and dry stock too) by using homeopathy and herbal preparations.

This edition includes suggested solutions for specific current issues such as Thelleria ticks and environmental stresses such as Alligator weed and Kikuya as well as Liver fluke (Fasciola) and a nosode made from the bacteria that causes woody tongue (Acintonysis). It also gives indications for great maintenance tools developed

and like its predecessors will become a well thumbed and valued reference.

Tineke is to be commended for the ‘continuity of care’ that she provides for her patients and clients. Tineke and her knowledgeable, long serving HFS staff have been providing support to farmers and their animals since 1997.

Thousands of happy clients and tens of thousands of successful outcomes are the result of the careful and attentive service of Tineke and HFS .

So I commend Tineke, the HFS staff, and this great resource book to those who love and care for cows and cattle too.

Susanna Shelton, BA, MDiv, RCHom, ADH Retired CEO and Principal Bay of Plenty College of Homeopathy, New Zealand, and Sydney College of Homeopathic Medicine, Australia Former Co-President and Executive New Zealand Council of Homeopaths.

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specifically by HFS in response to the needs of farmers: Natural Teat Conditioner (and Teat Spray); Herbal Digestive Drench and the classic, Farmers’ Hand Cream.

It also provides a calendar to recommend interventions throughout the year to help farmers stay ahead of and on top of seasonal challenges. All of this is strongly rooted and grounded in experience and feedback.

A taster of feedback from consumers is included in the endorsement section. These show the great affection clients have for HFS and their satisfaction from finding natural solutions to real challenges with their animal’s health.

Author, Tineke Verkade provides a unique perspective as a trained nurse, teacher, naturopath, herbalist, homeopath for people, and specialist in animal homeopathy. Her experience of over 40 years as a health professional in the conventional and complementary realms is brought to bear in her books and seminars.

This 3rd edition of ‘Homeopathic Handbook for Dairy Farming’ is her 8th book

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April 2015

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

LIVESTOCK

Wool Perspective

From Rob Cochrane GM, Procurement, PGG Wrightson Wool

Lamb’s wool the eye of the storm

Rain was welcomed in the areas where it did fall recently, albeit only a tease for many, however there will be some places within the reading area which experienced the remnants of tropical cyclone Pam, but hopefully did not experience too much damaging wind along with the wet.

The eye of the storm, in regard to the wool market over the past couple of months, has been the very good prices enjoyed for lamb’s wool as buyers have showed extremely keen interest in those types. At levels not witnessed in a very long time, crossbred lamb’s wool has been well sought by the buying trade with best prices paid for well prepared lines, showing little or no sign of seconds (skirtings) within the main body wool. Having said that, 2nd lambs have, until very recently, reached levels not too far below those attained for the good body wool as buyers have obviously been pressured, by forward sales, to buy. Crossbred fleece prices have also remained firm, on a type for type basis, over the past few weeks despite the wild fluctuations experienced as the Kiwi dollar has swooped and soared like a scrap of paper in a windstorm.

A feature noted by many in the wool trade during past weeks, has been the quality of fleece wool coming forward mainly from southern areas of the South Island. At this time of year a much poorer colour is expected in wools from further south, however this year to date, most wools have been of good washing colour with very few lines of yellow fleece obvious.

This has also been instrumental in those poorer types, which have been offered, realising prices very close to the better colour wools. Cotted fleeces have also been a relative rarity in the auction arena, something of a surprise to brokers and buyers when such a good lambing (both in drop and survival) was experienced during springtime, signalling that ewes were in tip-upholstery, to insulation, and tennis ball felt. Whilst several of the products don’t offer the

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same ‘sexiness’ portrayed by some competitors, many contracts to supply have been in place for a considerable number of years whilst others are relatively new and innovative. Wool growers are advised to talk to a PGG Wrightson wool representative to ensure all opportunities are explored. As well as a myriad of forward contracts, the extremely efficient and cost effective

PGG Wrightson wool auction provides a regular opportunity for growers to showcase their wool samples to the widest possible range of buyers where they (buyers) can view the samples and attend the auction, all within the same building. Selling New Zealand wool in New Zealand is the best way to ensure full value is obtained.

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TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

April 2015

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April 2015

TARANAKI FARMING LIFESTYLES

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